Lifestyle & Trends - Home Improvement

Escape from winter's chill in your warm house

When the deep winter chill hits, the last thing you want to do is shiver inside your own house. But that frequently happens when drafty attics, fireplaces, leaky windows and open vents allow cold air to enter your house and have you hiding under blankets and heavier clothing. And not only are you shivering, you're probably spending a lot of money attempting to keep the temperature at a comfortable level.

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Transform your ugly front door

When guests arrive at your home or potential buyers see it from the street, first impressions count. But if your front door is an ugly, dilapidated, worn-out mess, they may get stuck there and fail to notice your home's inner beauty. Fortunately there are easy things you can do to transform your home's front entry to reflect your personal style, add instant curb appeal and even save on energy and upkeep.

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Easy ways to take advantage of solar energy at home

While installing a complete residential solar energy system can be cost-prohibitive for many homeowners, recent technology that integrates solar power with individual household appliances is making it easier for homeowners to harness the power of the sun without breaking the bank.

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Build up your 'momfidence'

Becoming a new parent can be a scary process. There is so much to learn and no easy way to practice until your new bundle of joy arrives. Luckily, there are easy ways that you can prepare yourself - and your home - to give you peace of mind and be able to enjoy the time with your new baby.

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Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concrete

Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend.

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Summer: the perfect season to design an eye-catching and comfortable kitchen

In the summer, most activity moves to the great outdoors. Porches, patios and decks are the official "heart center" of most homes during the warm weather months, especially at mealtimes. Instead of congregating in the kitchen as they do in the colder season, families tend to gather on the patio to enjoy dinner and recap the day's events.

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Do you have the right tools for your "honey-do" list?

It's summer and there's no better time to take on home improvement projects and that ever-expanding "honey-do" list. In a few months, those tasks will seem a lot more unpleasant when they can't be done in the beautiful sunshine.

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Low water flow leads to high satisfaction and savings

In the United States, Americans consume 3.7 billion gallons of water every year that are not replaced, leaving a huge water deficit - a result of growing demand on finite water supplies. In fact, at least 36 states are anticipating local, regional or statewide water shortages within the next five years. Everyone has the power to change the water equation in the United States and put more money in their own pockets, while helping hydrate the planet.

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Sticking to a budget? Tips for affordable and easy home upgrades

Living on a budget is the norm, rather than the exception, in the current economy. Whether you're trying to entice potential homebuyers or just want to give your living space a quick spruce up, here are a few tips for making a big impact in the look of your home without breaking the bank.

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Bathroom design: It's all in the details

It's most likely one of the top reasons you've been putting off that bathroom makeover or remodel -- you're not sure where to begin. So what should you look for when you're planning your next bath or powder room project?

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Lifestyle Trends