Whether the Nasdaq is up or down, homeowners can still find one investment with an almost-certain positive return – the backyard deck.Of course, there are the dollars and cents of it. After using the deck, you can still recoup about 70% of its cost when you sell the house. (That’s assuming you’ve followed the basics […]

Spring cleaning tips m Control dust mites. Keep surfaces in the home clean and uncluttered. Bare floors and walls are best, particularly in the bedroom where you spend one-third of your time. If you must have carpet, invest in washable throw rugs or low-pile carpets.m Dust often using a damp or treated cloth. Dust mites, […]

1. Look for products that don’t waste energy.This isn’t just smarter for the environment -it’s smarter for your pocketbook. The insulators that play a large factor in our homes’ energy efficiencies are often overlooked. But the insulation used can significantly decrease your energy intake.Homeowners can upgrade insulation in their existing home to fill gaps and […]

(ARA) -From square-shaped vases to glass cones, wall glass is being used to bring botanicals back into the home. Uniquely crafted to house everything from fresh cut florals to aromatherapy candles, these hanging glass ornaments can be mounted on the wall, suspended from the ceiling (ideally in front of a window or over a table) […]

By DAVID BRADLEYFrom The Home Service StoreFor AP Weekly FeaturesAs far as Brad Bishop is concerned, there’s a relatively simple way to improve the condition of American roofs.As head of Rembrandt Remodeling, a 70-person roofing firm in Atlanta, Bishop routinely sees his share of roofing problems. He says it all boils down to one thing […]

When can I start? Where do I begin? and How much do I need? Those are just three of the many questions painters ask when the time comes to paint outside.As the painting season starts up, the Glidden Company offers these tips to help make painting a little easier. “Painting outdoors is best during the […]

No one likes to do windows with ordinary household glass cleaners that leave streaks behind. The Hope Company, manufacturers of premium home care products, has developed these suggestions to help you obtains perfect glass and mirrors every time: 1) Use a premium glass cleaner and avoid formulations with ammonia or vinegar. Check labels for these […]

(ARA) – Now that spring is here, kids will be spending a lot more time outdoors, riding bikes, kicking the ball around, and if they have access to one, enjoying the backyard playground. They know what’s good for them.Over the years, numerous studies have shown playgrounds to be essential not only to physical strength, but […]

Today’s home décor products ease transition to different styles (ARA) – The old adage states: “The only constant is change itself.” When it comes to home decorating, changing the style may seem overwhelming and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. New styles can be created by turning an eye to accessories and small details […]

Story and photos by Linda GalwaySpecial Sections EditorMatt Toohey, manager of the Wood Floor Super Store in Scarborough, calls laminate flooring a “destination floor – destined for certain types of applications.”Although it may be one of the hottest new products in floor coverings in the United States, Europeans have been using it for more than […]