Spring is here, and it’s time for homeowners to ready yards and landscapes for backyarding. The pandemic thrust us into a new reality, and the backyard has a starring role. Yards and other managed landscapes became a safe haven. Backyarding became a way of life as lawns, gardens, patios and decks evolved into outdoor offices, […]
The Modern Architecture + Design Society Announces 2021 Virtual Tour Season Pass
Organizers of the Modern Home Tour keep in-person events paused, but offer new way for anyone, anywhere (in the world) to enjoy modern architecture and design. The end of the coronavirus pandemic is in sight for Americans, but the country is still not quite ready for large scale gatherings, especially in small spaces like private […]
How to Build Your Own Recording Studio at Home
Money can be a big problem if you are a beginner musician. There are many things you have to spend because of out-of-pocket expenses for production equipment and accessories. The good news about the music industry today is that anybody can make it big thanks to the Internet. Gone are the days of needing […]
Energy and Cost Savings for Your AC
There’s nothing better during the heat of the summer than to come home after a hard, hot day to a cool home. True, most people wouldn’t dream of living without their air conditioner, but most would rather do without the high energy bills at the end of the month. In this article, we check […]
Replace Outdoor Lighting
(guest post by Megan Wenzl) If you’re anything like us, you love your home. Taking pride in where you live is one of the purest pleasures in life, but since most people spend the majority of their time inside their humble (or not-so-humble) abodes, it can be easy to overlook the exterior. Part […]
First Roofing Job? Avoid These Common Mistakes
(guest post by Nate Smith) Any roofing job can be dangerous, whether you are an expert or a beginner. The nature of the work carries risks, no matter your experience level. Although costs are high to repair or replace a roof, it can be even more expensive if not done properly the first […]
Telescoping Baluster Marking Tool for Stairs
Here’s a short video I made demonstrating how to use the Telescoping Baluster Marking Tool from L.J. Smith Stair Systems.
Planning a Stair Rail
Installing a stair guardrail can be a challenging undertaking. The project is more complicated than tread or riser removal, because you’re dealing with precise angles rather than square cuts. The rail system must be securely supported by newels that are solidly fastened to the framing of the floor or wall. The rail must also adhere […]
New Ceiling Fixture from Lamps Plus
Last week, we upgraded a ceiling fixture with a new chandelier from Lamps Plus. This lighting fixture was located above the staircase we recently remodeled and made a beautiful “crown jewel” to decorate the space. The homeowner selected the Lacey 28″ Wide Round Black Chandelier to replace a much smaller (and lackluster) existing pendant. The […]
How to Tarp a Shingle Roof
(guest post by Pat Overson) If you are looking for a short-term solution for fixing a leaky roof, then installing a tarp is your most practical option. A tarp is not a replacement for real repairs done by a roofing contractor, but it will keep your leaky roof from causing permanent water damage to […]