If you own an older home, you may worry that the foundation could have damage inside that you are unable to see. If so, look for the following subtle signs that this could be the case. White Powder Has Formed On The Basement Walls While standing in your basement, look carefully at the walls using a flashlight to fully illuminate the surfaces. Look for a white, powdery substance, which is called efflorescence. Read More»
The true essence and beauty of artwork is best revealed when the piece is paired with the appropriate frame. An incorrect frame style or even size can actually inhibit the full potential of a piece. Before choosing a custom frame option, make sure you know what to consider. Think Opposites Try to stick with a frame style that is opposite the style of the piece. Take a cluttered or busy piece, for example. Read More»
Living in a remote area surrounded by forests may be romantic, but it’s a disaster waiting to happen if wildfire strikes. To protect your home, there are certain landscaping features you should consider. Install Hardscaping An area of non-flammable materials should be your first zone of defense around your home. From your foundation out to a few yards away should be covered with concrete, flagstone, pavers or gravel, which will stop a grass fire in its tracks. Read More»
Granite countertops are beautiful, durable, and come in a wide assortment of colors and styles to coordinate with any kitchen. If you are thinking about getting granite countertops installed or if you already have them, there are some things you can do to prolong your counter’s beauty. Follow these tips to ensure that you enjoy your investment for a long time to come. Daily Care Just like any other material in your kitchen, you’ll need to clean up any spills from your granite counters as soon as possible. Read More»
You may want to hold off fixing your air conditioning system because you think you can do without it for awhile. But the truth is living without your air conditioning system during seasons of extreme heat is not a good idea. The following are just a few ways that heat and a malfunctioning air conditioner can hurt you and your family. Your Overall Mood Might Be Affected Staying in a hot home with a high level of humidity might affect your mood. Read More»
With the price of heating oil at a new low, you may be enjoying a brief reprieve from your ordinary winter utility rates. However, what goes down must go up again – and if you’ve found that your supply of heating oil seems to be going down more quickly than in past years, it’s possible your home’s insulation has begun to near the end of its lifespan. Read on to learn more about some of the most efficient (and cost-effective) insulation options that can help you significantly extend the lifespan of each tank of heating oil. Read More»
Paper lanterns are inexpensive, beautiful, and versatile. These lanterns can be packed away flat for easy storage, and they come in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and shapes. You can purchase paper lanterns online and they make a great decoration for all kinds of different events. Here are a few ways you can get creative with your paper lanterns and add some beauty and interest to your next event or decor. Read More»
If you’re worried your body won’t be able to keep up with the demands of the working world for much longer, but aren’t sure you and your spouse have saved enough of a nest egg to comfortably retire, you may be concerned about your next steps. Fortunately, by selling a home with high carrying costs and moving toward a much simpler lifestyle, you may be able to leave the workforce sooner than anticipated. Read More»
Hard water can cause a number of issues around your home. It can make your toilets, sinks and bathtubs sport an ugly. rusty ring. Your white shirts start turning yellow with each passing wash. Your dishes come out with nasty spots on them from the added minerals in the water. All in all, hard water can be a real pain. Yet, many people still won’t turn to a water softener for their home because of something negative they heard about the systems. Read More»
Few things are as beautiful as a well-kept and manicured yard. The lush, green grass that springs back underfoot is surely a glorious thing to behold. However, one of the most important factors behind these gorgeous yards often hinges on one thing: A steady water supply. If you’re a busy professional with a growing family, it can be hard to find the time to nourish your yard. That’s why it’s so vital for you to install a good sprinkler system. Read More»