You turn the faucet off when brushing your teeth and installed low-flow toilets and showerheads – but your outdated irrigation system could be undermining your efforts to save water. The average American household uses 30 percent or more of its water outdoors in landscaping. Bigger users might be closer to 70 percent in some cases, according …
When your family comes home at the end of the day – from school, work, a play date or extracurricular activities – it’s very likely the first thing they do is dump whatever they’re carrying on the kitchen table or counter and grab a glass for a drink. The kitchen is also where you prepare meals, …
The mantra of the green earth movement – reduce, reuse, recycle – can easily be adapted in your kitchen. No need to redo your entire kitchen with bamboo floors, the newest energy efficient appliances, counters made of recycled paper and yogurt containers, and locally made antique cabinetry. In fact, the greenest option is to keep the …
The peak driving season is upon us, and warm weather typically means the windows are rolled down, the radio is turned up and there’s nothing ahead but the open road. High fuel costs and the extra mileage on your vehicle, however, can hit your wallet – and the environment – harder than you’d like. But a …
Maintaining outdoor fencing and decking can be quite the challenge, particularly for those of us living in areas where there’s seasonal snowfall. Similarly, decks overlooking pools can be difficult to keep up because of the constant chlorine damage. It can become quite habitual to seasonally stain and re-stain a deck the same color it was previously, …
(HIB) – Ever watch those TV design shows and wonder how to replicate the look in your own home? It’s easy to incorporate designer tricks into your space, no matter the style or existing decor. Focus on adding layers of color and texture, and notice how hues flow from room to room to create a cohesive …
Many homeowners looking to lower their utility bills may try to seek a cheaper electricity supplier, if they live in a state that has deregulated its energy market. Others may be looking into home improvement projects that will improve the energy efficiency of their homes. For folks looking into more ambitious home improvement projects, the federal …
As temperatures rise this summer, so do the risks of droughts. Water shortages can be a threat to your home and community. That’s why it makes sense for Americans to conserve water as a matter of course. The best place to start is right in your own backyard. What can you do to conserve water? Here …
(HIB) – If kitchen and bathroom remodels are the gold and silver medalists in the Olympics of home renovation, then a master suite remodel is a very respectable bronze. But while the superstars of the renovation world may reap more in terms of resale value, a master suite remodel can be more rewarding for your soul. …
(HIB) – Maybe the economy really is getting better, but if you’re still planning to forego a pricey vacation this summer, you’re likely not alone. Rather than dropping a lot of cash on travel, many Americans are choosing to spend their hard-earned money where they’ll enjoy it more for longer – in their own backyards. Upgrading …
(HIB) – Bright flowers are blooming, nights are turning warmer, the days are getting longer: ’tis the season for outdoor entertaining. Design insiders say you can make summer sizzle by throwing a great dinner party without breaking the bank. Simply start with two sources – your china cabinet and Mother Nature. “With the higher gas prices …
(HIB) – Sprucing up outdoor spaces doesn’t have to cost a lot to create a big impact. Rather than buying new, consider refreshing or upgrading furnishings, equipment and features you already have. You will save some green and give new life to items that might otherwise wind up in the trash – and ultimately in the …
(HIB) – The warmer months provide numerous opportunities for hosting outdoor events: birthday parties, Father’s Day barbecues, graduation celebrations, backyard campouts, weddings or a gathering for watching fireworks on the Fourth of July – the list is endless. Even when just hosting a fun neighborhood picnic or ice cream social, it’s important to get the outdoor …
Fast, functional and fabulous bathroom fixes for less than $500 (HIB) – Longing to update your home, but short on time and money? You’re not alone. Remodeling experts report that whole-house remodels have declined in recent years – but don’t throw in the towel just yet. Instead of focusing on every room – focus on smaller …
Will this year’s holiday house guests be seeing the same drapes, throw pillows and wall decor they saw in your home last year? Or even the year before that? If your decor is looking tired – or you’re just plain tired of it – the holiday season is a good time to gift yourself with a …