Home Improvement

Here’s how easy it is to make your vinyl siding clean and the envy of the neighborhood: First, mix your cleaning solution in a large bucket. Four gallons of water and 1/4 cup of dish soap should do the trick. Start at the top, and work your way down to prevent streaks, hose off a section to remove any loose debris, then wet your brush in the cleaning solution and scrub the siding. Be sure to rinse away the soapy water before it dries, or it will leave marks on the siding. Small spots of mold and mildew can be cleaned with … [Read more...] about Keep your vinyl siding looking new

Photo by NewsUSA What do you use to keep your lawn green? (NewsUSA) — According to reports, last year's lack of rainfall, combined with the blistering heat, caused a moderate to severe drought that affected up to 63.5 percent of the contiguous U.S. It may have been the worst heat and drought Americans have experienced in nearly 50 years. But will the severity of 2012's dryness repeat itself? Will this be the "new summer norm" that farmers and homeowners alike should expect? If watering restrictions once again go into … [Read more...] about How to have a lush lawn in extreme heat and drought

Photo by NewsUSA Families shouldn't have to schedule hot water, and moms shouldn't have to scramble for a bath. (NewsUSA) — If you own a home, hot water availability can significantly impact how many daily tasks are accomplished, but it doesn't have to be that way. What if you could check a number of to-dos off your daily list — such as laundry, dishwashing, showers, baths for the kids and perhaps one for yourself — without having to devise a hot-water schedule? Well, you can. "With a tankless water heater, your house … [Read more...] about Hot water shouldn’t require a tank or schedule

Photo courtesy of NewsUSA Installing solar panels doesn’t necessarily require a big payment upfront. (NewsUSA) — As arguments for switching to renewable energy become more urgent, homeowners are finding new options to help finance rooftop solar systems. Over the last five years, U.S. electricity costs have jumped more than 21 percent, and the average American household now produces 7.4 tons of carbon dioxide through yearly electricity consumption. Homeowners who switch to solar energy can halve their electricity bill or … [Read more...] about How to go solar with no money down

(NewsUSA) — Spring is here, and many people have the allergies to prove it. Regardless of spring’s slow pace or your motivation levels, however, it’s time to start heralding warmer temperatures by beautifying the backyard. So, don the appropriate layers, grab some tools and turn your backyard into something ideal for entertaining. Families love to spend time outdoors — especially if they have a pool, patio or deck — so take the time to administer some TLC to the lawn, pool, patio and garden. The following tips will help you … [Read more...] about 3 tips to growing a bold, beautiful backyard

Photo courtesy of Goodluz — Fotolia.com Taking the time to modernize your home office will improve the quality of your work. (StatePoint) — If you work from home, you know how important it is to turn your home office into an efficient workspace. And these days, making improvements with that goal in mind rests on keeping up with the trends and times. Ergonomics The design of your workspace can have a tremendous impact on how you feel, and ultimately, your productivity. There are steps you can take to reduce your chance of … [Read more...] about Tips for setting up or improving a home office

Photo courtesy of StatePoint Media Take steps to prep your old home for market or your new home for better living. (StatePoint) — Buying or selling a home in today’s real estate market? Go about it properly. From home inspections to home improvement, take your advice from leading experts. Home Inspection Because the industry is unregulated, be wary when hiring a home inspector.Protect yourself with these tips from, Pillar To Post, the nation’s largest home inspection franchise: • Get referrals from family, friends, your … [Read more...] about Home improvement tips for buyers and sellers

Photo courtesy of Getty Images The task of home painting projects may seem daunting, but by following a few helpful steps you can give your home a fresh, clean appearance and incorporate some of your favorite new home décor trends. Easy exterior and interior painting tips (Family Features) — The task of home painting projects may seem daunting, but by following a few helpful steps you can give your home a fresh, clean appearance and incorporate some of your favorite new home décor trends. “Whether your painting … [Read more...] about Paint like a pro

Photo courtesy of Family Features In today’s busy, on-the-go world, having a haven to come home to is a must. And for many people, that sanctuary is the bedroom. Designer secrets to enhance the master suite (Family Features) — In today’s busy, on-the-go world, having a haven to come home to is a must. And for many people, that sanctuary is the bedroom. “Today’s bedroom is for more than just sleeping,” said Emily Henderson, host of “Secrets from a Stylist” and HGTV’s Season 5 “Design Star” winner. “From working and … [Read more...] about Transforming your bedroom