Lifestyle & Trends - Home Improvement

Winter-proof your home this fall for year-round benefits

After a summer of record-breaking temperatures across the country, you may be wondering if the impending winter weather will be just as extreme. While harsh weather puts a strain on wallets with increased energy bills, it can also be damaging to the home. Before the ice and snow hit, consider winterizing your home to help increase efficiency and minimize maintenance.

Add value and appeal with four simple home maintenance projects

Projects to improve the value and appeal of your home don't have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time to accomplish.

Five fabulous finds that won't put your kitchen budget on the chopping block

No matter if your cooking style is elaborate like Julia Child or quick and simple like Rachael Ray, there are few items in your kitchen that you shouldn't live without. Add these five affordable finds to your kitchen and you'll be cooking with class in no time.

Create a comfy 'school zone' for studying at home

With the arrival of the new school year, now is the perfect time to "zone out" and get your family and your home in gear by creating a comfortable, yet functional study zone in your home.

How to cut home heating costs this winter

Some savvy homeowners are having their cake and eating it too when it comes to energy-efficient home heating. Imagine cutting your heating bills, while boosting your home's comfort. Sound too good to be true? Not for the thousands of homeowners who are using radiant floor heating, one of the oldest and most efficient means of heating a home.

A strategic approach to remodeling: refreshing rooms with small projects

In today's challenging economy, you're taking a look at how you spend your hard-earned dollars. And while you may not have the necessary budget to tackle a major home improvement project, there are many homeowners who are choosing a more strategic approach to remodeling - by refreshing rooms and undertaking small projects one at a time.

How to make your outdoor living space as cool and comfortable as indoors

It is easy to enjoy your deck or patio when the weather is warm and pleasant, and memories of cold winters are driven far away. But when the temperatures soar, do you find yourself retreating indoors? Even through the dog days of summer, you can enjoy your outdoor living space by using outdoor versions of indoor comforts such as luxurious furnishings, decorative touches and even air conditioning.

Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concrete

Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend.

Transform your ugly front door

When guests arrive at your home or potential buyers see it from the street, first impressions count. But if your front door is an ugly, dilapidated, worn-out mess, they may get stuck there and fail to notice your home's inner beauty. Fortunately there are easy things you can do to transform your home's front entry to reflect your personal style, add instant curb appeal and even save on energy and upkeep.

Bring the beach back with you - creating cottage style in your home

Nothing's harder to face than packing up your belongings after a week at a cozy beach house and heading back home to the real world. Sure, it's hard to leave paradise behind, but who says you have to? Why not just transform your own living space to a beach-inspired haven that lets you get away from it all, even if you aren't on vacation? It's easy and inexpensive to do.

Lifestyle Trends