Online Features
Home Improvement
59O0_15146842_web.jpg
What you need to know about composite decking
Although composite decking is not new, lack of familiarity with the product may lead you to be confused when making a decision about the type of product you should choose for your deck. To make this decision-making process easier, it often helps to go back to the basics.
full story
MZP_16785769_web.jpg
How to protect concrete from winter damage
The average winter temperature in 25 U.S. states is below freezing, according to the National Climatic Data Center, and that can be very harmful to concrete surfaces left unprotected by homeowners. The repeated freezing and thawing that occurs due to changes in daytime and nighttime temperatures during the winter can cau...
full story
3NJ0_1678019_web.jpg
Four steps to a more beautiful bathroom
The bathroom is one of the most frequented areas in your home, making your choice of bathroom decor pretty important. Don't forget about this key area when considering your next home improvement project. With a few tips, you can take your bathroom from so-so to spectacular in no time at all.
full story
KE6B_16217896_web.jpg
The surprising truth about carpet
Carpet has gained quite the reputation in the past decade, fueled by a multitude of assumptions. But is there truth behind the rumors about this very popular flooring option? With a little investigation you'll find many are completely false - making carpet a viable flooring option that can benefit everyone, from allergy ...
full story
N1I_16772754_web.jpg
Fall-prevention strategies boomers can fall in love with
You're only as old as you feel, which is great news for today's baby boomers, as 61 percent report they feel younger than their true age. But despite feeling great, the reality is that adults may need to make minor changes to their homes and lifestyles to ensure they can continue to enjoy safe, healthy and independent li...
full story
DPO8_16627803_web.jpg
Homeowners stepping up research before taking on home projects
Do you enjoy a theater quality experience from the comfort of your own home? Does your kitchen resemble that of the finest restaurants? If you answered "yes" then you're among the growing number of discerning consumers who consider themselves "prosumers."
full story
AN6M_14487613_web.jpg
Easy tips for green remodeling
One of the hottest trends in home improvement is remodeling with green or sustainability in mind. Going "green" means using building methods and environmentally friendly building materials that reduce your home's impact on the earth, while enhancing the health of your home for you and your family.
full story
1QBB_16771192_web.jpg
Bathroom design: It's all in the details
It's most likely one of the top reasons you've been putting off that bathroom makeover or remodel - you're not sure where to begin. What should the decor be like? Do you want a pedestal sink or a furniture-style vanity? Will you incorporate any water-saving faucets or fixtures? And, with all the decisions to make, will i...
full story
ESIE_16177631_web.jpg
Growing mobility and home accessibility issues spark innovation
Driven by a growing senior population, soldiers returning home injured from war and the ongoing obesity epidemic, mobility and home accessibility issues are becoming more commonplace in America. In response, companies today are creating innovative home solutions that focus on both improved form and function, and serve to...
full story
9EGA_16636241_web.jpg
Eight ways to improve your home's energy efficiency through lighting
It's easy to instantly trim your energy consumption and boost the eco-friendliness of your home. The key to easy energy savings is lighting. Though for many homeowners and renters, knowing how and what to do to improve their home's lighting energy efficiency can be confusing.
full story
Continuous hot water report [Infographic]
When Americans wake up in the morning, they want one thing: a good hot shower. A recent study commissioned by Noritz America, a tankless water heater manufacturer, showed that while shower styles varied, the demand for continuous hot water and strong water pressure is nearly universal. But so is the need to cut utility costs and save energy. Consumers can cut operating costs up to 40 percent and help ensure that every shower is a hot one by shifting from conventional tank-type water heater...
full story
JWQ0_16257850_web.jpg
Injury-prevention tips for DIYers
When you finally tackle that home improvement project you've been planning for a while, you're probably eager to get the job done quickly, well and on-budget. Injuries can delay your project, and cost money for medical expenses or even time lost from your job. It's important to take steps to prevent injury.
full story