(ARA) - It's not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they've been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn't an option for most of us, there's another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, high-style look, but doing it in a way that's cost effective.
(ARA) - You've probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While California residents began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100-watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs.
A hot topic for hundreds of experts gathered at the recent 2011 Remodeling Show in Chicago was trends in wood flooring. Now in its 20th year, the show is the premier event in the nation for remodelers to look to what lies ahead in their industry.
Spring is known as the problem season for termites, but did you know that what you do - or leave undone - before winter comes could mean the difference between protecting your home from termites and having an infestation?
If you're winding down a season of gardening, backyard entertaining and enjoying your deck or patio, there's only one thing left to do - tackle a few fall projects so you're ready to pick up where you left off next year. Fall's not only a great time to enjoy milder weather and fantastic leaf displays, but also a season to take care of some simple lawn and garden projects that will ensure your outdoor space is ready to go once the weather warms up again.
(ARA) - Call the family and grab the toolbox. Do-it-yourself projects can become a family affair this fall.
Deciding to replace a floor in your home is the first step toward creating a stunning new room. Now you have to decide what kind of floor to install. There are many flooring types - hardwood, vinyl, carpet, bamboo and cork - just to name a few. How do you pick the one that's right for your space? First, think about your lifestyle, your decorating style and your budget. Then consider a floor that is highly durable, has hundreds of different looks and is easy on the wallet: laminate.
False alarms from home security systems are much more prevalent than you might imagine. The New York Times estimates that as many as 97 percent of cases where police are dispatched to the scene of a burglary turn out to be false alarms. This means that less than 5 percent of the time alarms are actually set off by burglars or intruders.
(ARA) - Homeowners can scratch off one more concern from their list when tackling a painting project: Nearly every paint manufacturer now offers no-odor or low-odor alternatives. Combined with sensible steps to reduce odors and speed drying, painting today doesn't have to be the stinky business your parents experienced.