By HouseLogic A new shower valve can turn on the benefits you want. Find out the best way to get it done. We’ve all been there: You turn the shower handle, expecting a cascade of water, and instead, you’re greeted with a lackluster dribble. It’s like your shower decided to take a leisurely stroll instead of […]

By: Douglas Trattner Most families do more than 400 loads of laundry a year, costing upwards of $600. Trim those costs with these energy-saving tricks. Here’s a fun laundry room fact: The average American family washes 300 loads of laundry a year, spending as much as $1.08 per load, for a yearly total of $324. Most laundry room […]

By: Alaina Tweddale There are better ways to spend.“They were this gorgeous, greenish-teal, and they looked great in my laundry room,” says Eliesa Prettelt, avid DIYer and author of “A Pinterest Addict” blog. The washer/dryer combo was perfect. Such a delightful way to brighten laundry day — with a cheerfully colored front-loader set. They could actually make […]

By: Amy Howell Hirt When to look for sales on mattresses, appliances, tools, furnishings, and materials. Buying stuff can be stressful. Cheap out and you could regret it. Overspend and you’ll cut into your budget. Knowing the best time of year to buy appliances and other household items can lessen the anxiety. Furniture: January and JulyYou could save 30% to 60% buying furniture in […]

By: Leanne Potts Save your cash for more important things, like, you know, your mortgage. You can’t swing a tool belt without hitting a website or TV network offering tips on taking care of your digs. Save money by watering your lawn at night! No, water it in the morning! No, dig it up and replace […]

by Barbara Eisner Bayer A lush spot for outdoor entertaining? Great. Perfect. A constant swarm of insects that invade your patio and home? No, thank you. Here’s how to keep bugs away from your patio and yard, and from getting inside your house. Install Patio FansMosquitos may have a tough sting, but they’re wimps when […]

By: HouseLogic Find out if DIY or hiring a pro is right for your deck project. Building a deck expands your livable outdoor space so you can do more of what you love — entertaining, dining, or relaxing under the stars. But large projects like adding a new deck or repairing an existing one can be […]

By Lisa Kaplan Gordon Common remodeling projects can be more complicated than you think. While you’re still in the dreaming stage, factor in realities that could add time and money to your project. Surprise! That remodeling project you’ve been planning, such as taking down a wall or adding a kitchen island, can have sticker-shock repercussions. Why? […]

By: Pat Curry Choosing the wrong type of paint finish could mean a do-over that costs twice as much. There’s a basic rule of thumb to follow when choosing paint sheens: The higher the sheen, the higher the shine — and the higher the shine, the more durable it will be. Flat paint has no shine; […]

By: Sarah Fogle It’s amazing what perennials, mulch, and decorative rocks can do. When you’re looking for your dream home, you might find that it comes with more yard than you’ve ever had before — or had to maintain. These fall yard cleanup tips will help you set up (and enjoy) an easy-care yard year-round. 1. […]