Explore 1,000+ articles designed to guide you through every stage of your home improvement project.
Gutters
Gutter Rain Chains: Aesthetic Alternatives to Traditional Downspouts
What Is a Rain Chain? A rain chain is another way to direct rainwater from your roof gutter to a drain or storage container. Unlike regular downspouts that hide the water inside a tube, rain chains let you watch the water flow down a series of linked chains or decorative cups. Rain chains, called “kusari-doi”…
Other Home Projects
Tree Trimming Tips for First-Time Homeowners
Sitting under the shade of a tree on a hot summer day is a pleasantly picturesque pastime that homeowners are happy to take advantage of. While many people may want trees because of the beauty they provide to a home, they may not think about the maintenance involved in keeping those trees in great condition.…
Other Home Projects
Building a Balcony: All You Never Knew, But Need To
Building a balcony can increase your outdoor living space for less than the cost of a ground-floor deck. If you’re considering adding a balcony to your second story, you’ll want to select the best design, materials, and contractor for your budget and your goals. Here are a few things to think about as you start…
Other Home Projects
Designing Your Outdoor Living Room: 5 Patio Building Materials
An outdoor patio can be one of the most relaxing spots in your home. With comfortable seating and a great view, a patio can easily become an outdoor living space for you and your family. Patios can be created from a variety of materials, and the best choice for your home depends not only on…
Decks
The Basics of Designing a Backyard Deck
The luxury of outdoor living space is one of the biggest perks to owning or living in a house versus multi-unit housing like apartments and condos. Outdoor space is great for hosting get-togethers and parties, or even just retreating to a hammock with a book for a couple hours of solitary relaxation. Yard space also…
Other Home Projects
Building a Deck? Read This First
Building a deck can transform a backyard from a dull, open space to a fabulous oasis, an extension of your home that friends and family gravitate toward on warm-weather days. It also has the added bonus of increasing the value of your property. Total win-win. Cost The total cost of the project depends on several factors…