New homeowner
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. You have the keys. The closing happened yesterday, or maybe an hour ago. Now you’re standing in your house thinking about everything you don’t
When things go wrong
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Mosquitoes are ruining your summer. You can’t go outside without getting bitten. Your yard feels unusable. There are endless products claiming to solve the problem.
Safety & security
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Mold grows where moisture exists. All homes have mold spores. Preventing mold growth means controlling moisture. Some mold is cosmetic. Some causes health problems. Understanding what
When things go wrong
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. You saw a mouse in your house. Or you’re finding droppings. Or you hear scratching in the walls at night. Mice (or rats) invade homes
Tools & skills
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Everything you build starts with accurate measurements and marking. These fundamental skills are harder than they look but worth getting right. Mistakes in measurement lead to
Energy efficiency
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and efficient appliances reduce water consumption and the energy required to heat that water. Many are inexpensive upgrades delivering quick payback and ongoing
Room by room
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Living room lighting needs to handle multiple situations: bright enough to see clearly during the day, adjustable for watching TV without glare, and warm and inviting
Room by room
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. A living room that works lets people sit comfortably, see each other, hear the television, and move around without navigating obstacle courses. Most living rooms don’
Major projects
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Most renovations happen while you’re still living in the home. You’re not moving out for three months. You’re staying through the chaos, learning
When things go wrong
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Your lights flicker. Sometimes it’s all the lights. Sometimes it’s just one room. Sometimes it’s just when you turn on a big appliance.
Energy efficiency
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. LED lighting and efficient appliances are straightforward upgrades. They’re easier wins than major renovations. They save money over time. They require no disruption to your
Safety & security
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region. Lead paint was widely used until 1978 when the federal government banned lead in residential paint. Homes built before 1978 likely have lead paint. Lead is