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Featured Project

Start a Compost Pile

Start a Compost Pile

Save money and grow healthier plants by recycling yard and kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost. Read More

Progress $ E K
Save Money Low $100 (rather than buy 1 load)
Effort Low 5 hrs (build two bins)
Investment Low $375 (build two compost bins)
Added to Binder
Exterminator spraying perimeter of house

(New!)

Treatment Options for Getting Rid of Insects

You can limit the use of pesticides by enlisting a variety of strategies and methods to eliminate pests. Read More

Progress E K
Effort Low 1-2 hrs (research pros)
Investment Med $100-$3,000 (spot treat/contract)
Added to Binder
Man restoring a wooden window

(New!)

Save Money by Repairing Windows

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

Progress E K
Effort Low 1-4 hours/window
Investment Low $3-$175 repair/window
Added to Binder
Pest control employee inspecting for wood-destroying insects

(New!)

Detect Termites and Other Wood-Destroying Insects

Early detection can protect your home from damage by wood-destroying insects. Read More

Progress K
Effort Low 1 hr (pro inspection)
Investment Low $100-$200 (pro inspection)
Added to Binder
Man trimming branch near home's roof to prevent pests

(New!)

Prevent Insects From Damaging Your Home

Eliminate access to food, water, and shelter to stop wood-damaging pests from bugging you. Read More

Progress K
Effort Med 3 hrs-wknd (several times/yr)
Investment Med $20 (materials)
Added to Binder
Two-bin compost bin made of cedar wood

(New!)

Start a Compost Pile

Save money and grow healthier plants by recycling yard and kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost. Read More

Progress $ E K
Save Money Low $100 (rather than buy 1 load)
Effort Low 5 hrs (build two bins)
Investment Low $375 (build two compost bins)
Added to Binder
Homeowner painting room in his house

(New!)

The Value of Home Maintenance

Regular home maintenance is key to preserving the value of your house and property. Read More

Progress K
Effort Med 3-4 wknds/yr (inspect & repair)
Investment Med $3,300 (avg. annual cost)
Added to Binder
Woman selecting exterior paint

(New!)

Green Up Your Exterior Paint Job

A “green” exterior paint job costs more than a conventional job, but many conscientious painting contractors already build these practices into their estimates. Read More

Progress E K
Effort Low 3 hours (research)
Investment Low $250-$1,000 (materials/labor)
Added to Binder
Scraping old paint from a home's exterior

(New!)

10 Steps to a Perfect Exterior Paint Job

A good exterior paint job isn’t cheap, but done right, it can easily last 10 or more years. To get the most for your money, follow these steps. Read More

Progress K
Effort High 2 wks
Investment Med $4,000-$6,000 (hire a pro)
Added to Binder
A freshly-painted home exterior

(New!)

Exterior Paints and Stains: A Guide to the Options

To choose the best exterior paint or stain for your job, match the coating to your house, your climate, and the look you want. Read More

Progress E K
Effort High 2 wks
Investment Med $4,000-$6,000 (hire a pro)
Added to Binder
Man sealing an asphalt driveway

(New!)

Your Guide to Outdoor Maintenance — Northeast

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

Progress K
Effort Med 3–5 days (inspect & repair)
Investment Low $15-$300 (tools, materials)
Added to Binder
Getting Ready for Spring

Early season prep and maintenance ensures you’re ready for warmer weather:

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Keeping An Eye Out More Maintain Articles
This Week's Maintain Poll

Who cleans your gutters?

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  • I do

  • My husband/wife does

  • The lawn guy

  • Nobody

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