Author Profiles

Forget stapling egg cartons to your walls — you can quiet down your house for good if you know these 9 little secrets for soundproofing walls. Read More

Rooms so dry your hair stands on end? So clammy the walls are sweating? An inexpensive hygrometer will help you maintain proper humidity levels. Read More

Feeling hemmed in? Wish you had more space? If your house has low ceilings, vaulting your ceiling may be the answer. Read More

Adding skylights, solar light tubes, windows, and other means of daylighting can brighten your winter and help alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Read More

A skylight magically transforms interior space with cascading light, but the costs of installation might outweigh the advantages. Read More

Get the natural light that skylights provide — but with less cost and less hassle — by installing solar tubes instead. Read More

Adding even a simple utility sink to an outbuilding means running underground supply and drain lines at a cost of thousands of dollars. Read More

When adding electrical service for a workshop or studio, budget to meet your immediate needs while building in flexibility for the future. Read More

Check local zoning laws, ordinances, building codes, and covenants before adding a workshop or studio to your property. Read More

Well-planned outdoor lighting improves curb appeal, safety, and security for your home. Read More

Repairing worn windows, rather than replacing them, can save you thousands of dollars. Read More

If you live in the Midwest, prevent problems and preserve the value of your property with proactive outdoor maintenance. Read More

When choosing decking materials, factor in the savings gained by low maintenance and longevity, even if the initial cost is higher. Read More

If you live in the Northwest, prevent problems and preserve the value of your property with proactive outdoor maintenance. Read More

Annual deck maintenance will forestall repairs, protect your investment, and boost your enjoyment of your outdoor space. Read More

A few cost-effective add-ons can give a modest deck an edge and deliver a handsome payback should you sell your house. Read More

Here’s how to plan a new deck that suits your property, meets your budget, and offers the best return on your investment. Read More

Evaluate the cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining an outdoor spa to decide if it’s a worthwhile addition to your deck. Read More

If you want to make sure your bathroom remodeling project is as green as possible, here’s how to save energy, conserve resources, and protect your budget. Read More