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Explore Emily Bloch's Articles

Pot hangers via Tim Barber Ltd. Architecture

Kitchen

5 Ways to Add Functional Appeal to Your Kitchen Design

A kitchen is the heart of a home. It’s where we gather with our families and friends to do everything from cook and eat, to study, hang out, and socialize. Because this  multi-purpose space gets so much use day in and day out, it’s a room that should be not only functional, but stylish, too.…

Siding

How to Repair Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is affordable, attractive, and popular among homeowners due to its variety of colors and easy customization. However, it won’t last forever and can take a few bumps along the way. The good news is that vinyl siding repair is simple and cost-effective for minor damage. In most cases, replacing the damaged piece is…

Siding

How to Repair and Maintain Clapboard Siding

Clapboard siding, also known as bevel, lap, or weatherboard siding, evokes the charm of historic New England homes with its overlapping wood planks that provide insulation and a waterproof seal. While its timeless appeal and practicality make it a popular choice, its wooden construction can lead to cracking or splitting over time. Fortunately, learning how…

Siding

How to Treat Wood Siding: Painting vs. Staining

Wood siding evokes visions of majestic log cabins and rustic retreats surrounded by nature. It’s no surprise that many homeowners love its natural charm. Beyond aesthetics, wood siding offers versatility, allowing you to change its color to match your style—something vinyl siding can’t do. However, maintaining wood siding requires commitment. To keep it in top…

Siding

Vinyl Siding Installation Tips and Tricks

Vinyl siding is one of the easiest types of siding to install, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require skill or knowledge to complete properly. When incorrectly installed, vinyl siding will let water in, and it will become a lovely home for all sorts of pests—which won’t look very good either. Here are some tips…

Kitchen

Add a Coffee or Beverage Station to your Kitchen

Coffee and beverage stations seem to be the latest kitchen trend, and for good reason. For many people, the day starts with coffee. Why not have a dedicated space in your kitchen for this all-important morning ritual? With everything you need right at your fingertips, you can make your first cup on the day practically on…

Kitchen

6 Ways to Refresh Your Kitchen on a Budget

The kitchen is well known as the heart of the home. And because of all that time spent in the same gathering spot, you want your kitchen to feel fresh, inviting, and uniquely you—because an outdated kitchen can really drag down your home’s vibe, not to mention the resale value. Even if a complete gut…

engineered wood siding cost to install

Siding

Vinyl Siding Alternatives

Next time you walk through your neighborhood, count how many homes use vinyl siding—you might be surprised by the number. Vinyl siding remains popular in the United States for its affordability, durability, and reliable home protection. Its eye-catching design, resembling a wooden clapboard, adds to its appeal. However, just because many homeowners choose it doesn’t…

solar water heating

Solar

Solar Water Heater Installation Process

Thank goodness for hot water heaters. They’re our key to the simple pleasures we sometimes take for granted, like hot showers and baths, and even running the dishwasher. Unfortunately, it takes a wasteful amount of energy for them to keep your water piping hot. Many people try to cut water usage in an effort to…