Explore 1,000+ articles designed to guide you through every stage of your home improvement project.
HVAC
How to Save on Your Electric Bill
When the temperature rises, utility bills tend to do the same. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple changes you can make that will reduce your monthly bills without sacrificing comfort. Here are our top energy-efficient tips for how to save on your electric bill and other utility bills this summer. 1. Use a Programmable Thermostat…
Bathroom
How to Deep Clean Your Bathroom
Having a clean bathroom is a strangely satisfying feeling. It’s not just having the towels hung up and the sink wiped free of toothpaste globs, but when you can see that sparkle on your countertops and in the tub and toilet that comes from a deep and thorough scrub. If you feel the instant gratification from…
Roofing
How to Tackle Ice Dams on Your Roof
Icicles on your roof may look quaint and charming, but unless your house is made out of gingerbread, they usually wind up doing a lot more harm than good. Typically, they’re a sign that your roof is forming ice dams—big, hard hunks of ice that build up over the edge of your roof. When ice…
Flooring
Non-Toxic Wood Floor Sealers and Finishes
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t appreciate the charm and warmth that a wooden floor adds to any home. Still, they require some upkeep if they’re going to last for years and years—which brings us to question that so many homeowners are asking. What is the least toxic, healthiest way to finish and…
Other Home Projects
Homeowner 101: How to Patch a Drywall Hole
Patching a drywall hole is a skill that intimidates a lot of people—I know because I used to be one of them. But don’t worry, because patching a hole in your drywall seems tougher than it actually is. No matter what your experience level is with home repair, this is something almost everyone can do.…
HVAC
How to Change the Oil Filter on Your Home Furnace
When it comes to heating repairs, some jobs are definitely better left to the pros. Is your HVAC unit smoking? It’s probably best call in a contractor for that one. But minor maintenance tasks, like changing and cleaning the filter on your oil-burning furnace, can be accomplished by almost anyone with a wrench and a…
Windows
In the intricate world of home construction and maintenance, the integrity of your windows stands paramount. But while we often focus on the type, style, or energy efficiency of a window, there’s a critical component that can’t be overlooked: flashing. Flashing, typically a thin strip of material, acts as a shield, preventing water from seeping…
Roofing
Sealing a Roof with a Roof Coating
Whether you have just installed a new roof or are trying to extend the life of your existing one, roof coatings are a hot topic in the home improvement market these days. The growing trend is largely attributed to an increasing desire among homeowners to be more environmentally conscious while also reducing energy costs. Typically,…