Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2025-12-05T14:01:00

(BPT) – Do you enjoy the outdoor spaces of your home? Rather than just a seasonal escape, your outdoor area can be a year-round oasis that adds life, character and depth to your property. With some strategic updates, it transforms into a daily sanctuary and a go-to hub for entertainment, no matter the time of year.

Embrace your outdoor areas as a true extension of your home in all seasons. With Belgard^®, a leading hardscape supplier in North America, you can create beautiful designs that use proprietary, durable products that will stand the test of time:

• Design an outdoor space that works year-round to provide comfort, functionality and flow, every single month.
• Discover an array of products to complement any home, from eye-catching driveways and serene landscapes to stunning patios or yards that beckon you any time of year.
• Revamp your outdoor haven with Belgard’s expert tips and its innovative hardscape products that empower you to unlock the full potential of your space.
• Imagine the possibilities to maximize your outdoor area with strategic use of pavers, modular outdoor kitchen units, mesmerizing fire features and more.

Here’s how you can elevate your year-round outdoor living experience.

Begin with the Right Foundation

Embark on your outdoor transformation by establishing a solid foundation, from the ground up. Choose a durable, well-draining surface to help your patio or walkways withstand everything from summer storms to winter freezes.

Opting for pavers like those in the Belgard permeable paver collection helps to manage water runoff while maintaining a high-end look, which is especially useful in areas with seasonal rain or snow. For high-traffic paths, modular systems like Belgard’s Dimensions™ pavers offer clean lines and long-term durability, no matter the weather.

Imagine Dynamic Activity Zones

Think of your outdoor space the same way you would your home’s interior: Create different areas designed for specific functions, from lively dining and social gatherings to peaceful relaxation and entertainment.

Coordinating hardscape materials helps define your ideal zones while maintaining visual continuity all year. For example, building a dining zone anchored by Belgard’s Artforms™ modular outdoor kitchen system can help provide year-round functionality for family time and entertaining, whether you envision a simple pizza oven or grand outdoor kitchen.

Or, with the inviting glow of a fire feature, you’ll craft a cozy cold-weather destination everyone will enjoy gathering around, with the perfect ambiance for storytelling and fun.

Tailor Your Space to Your Style

The best outdoor spaces forge a connection between your outdoor space and your lifestyle and personality. Belgard’s product lines are designed to be modular and customizable, so whether you’re dreaming of a reading nook, family play area, outdoor spa or full kitchen setup, you can create a space that evolves with your needs, through every season. As you imagine your ideal spaces, consider adding planters, vertical gardens or integrated seating walls to infuse your outdoor realm with texture, function and a touch of individuality.

Think Multi-Purpose Shelter

From shielding against harsh sunlight to blocking wind and snow, adding overhead and/or vertical structures can elevate your outdoor experience regardless of the season. Enhance privacy and shelter from the elements with easy-to-install features like retractable solar shades, sun canopies and outdoor curtains.

Pergolas and pavilions can also be designed to complement Belgard’s wall block products to create a seamless transition between built elements. You can also pair vertical features like living walls and privacy screens with built-in seating or planters to help any space feel intentional and well-framed, even during weather transitions.

Illuminate Your Nights

Extend the magic of your outdoor sanctuary into the evening hours with an enchanting array of lighting options. Lighting isn’t just about setting the mood; it’s about ensuring your space remains functional, safe and welcoming even during the darkest evenings. Soft, layered lighting transforms your space into a captivating haven, making it feel inviting and usable well into the evening for summer soirees or serene winter evenings. You can combine multiple lighting sources like pillar lights and lanterns, bistro lights and sconces to achieve enchanting layered lighting effects.

Many Belgard hardscape lights can enhance your outdoor lighting design. For example, consider adding under-cap lighting on seat walls or embedded path lights for added safety, security and enhanced ambience.

Furnish Beyond Summertime

Invest in outdoor furniture and finishes that are as durable as they are stylish, so they can stand the test of time across all seasons. With Belgard’s diverse range of textures, from rustic tumbled finishes to sleek contemporary surfaces, you can seamlessly tie together your outdoor decor, hardscaping and planting design.

Mix and match warm-toned pavers with neutral cushions for a cozy winter patio with a firepit, or choose light surfaces like Belgard’s porcelain pavers that reflect heat and stay cooler in the summer.

Start your outdoor space transformation by learning how you can turn your outdoor dreams into reality with the Belgard Rooms Planner tool, and browse Belgard.com to spark your inspiration!

2025-11-24T09:15:00

(BPT) – Rising energy costs are prompting many homeowners to examine the efficiency of their heating and cooling systems. Although your HVAC system works year-round to keep your home comfortable, small maintenance issues or usage mistakes can cause it to overwork, resulting in higher energy bills.

Here are five common mistakes people make with their HVAC systems, along with easy fixes that can save money, reduce strain on the equipment, and help keep your home comfortable from one season to the next.

1. Choosing the wrong-sized system

Installing an HVAC system that’s too large or too small is an expensive, yet avoidable mistake.

An oversized system may cool quickly but won’t remove humidity, leaving rooms damp and uncomfortable. A system that’s too small struggles to maintain temperature, runs nonstop and wears out parts early.

When selecting a system, consider having an expert, such as a Rheem Pro Partner^®, assess your home’s heating and cooling needs before buying or replacing. Certified professionals help ensure proper sizing, improving comfort and efficiency. Plus, if you’re upgrading your system, consider leveraging federal tax credits through 2025 for qualifying high-efficiency systems.

2. Letting outside air sneak in

Over time, caulking can dry out and crack, making your system’s job even harder. Cracked seals around windows or doors may seem insignificant, but they allow hot, humid air to enter during summer and cold drafts to enter during winter, forcing your HVAC system to work harder.

Keep windows and doors tightly closed when running your HVAC and check for broken or aging seals. Resealing can quickly improve comfort and energy use.

3. Overlooking seasonal maintenance

Neglecting to perform seasonal maintenance can silently increase energy costs. Dirty filters, worn belts or failing parts force systems to use more power. Like a car, your HVAC needs regular checkups.

Schedule maintenance at least twice a year, ideally before cooling and heating seasons. A certified technician can inspect filters, capacitors, motors and other components to ensure everything runs efficiently. Regular tune-ups lower your utility bills and extend the life of your system.

4. Blocking vents and registers

If air can’t move, it can’t heat or cool your home effectively. Furniture, rugs or curtains that cover supply or return vents restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder than necessary.

Keep vents and registers open and clear of obstructions to ensure air circulates freely. Balanced airflow helps your HVAC system run more efficiently and maintains consistent temperatures throughout your home.

5. Attempting DIY thermostat installation

Smart thermostats help control comfort and save energy, but improper installation can lead to issues. Wiring mistakes can lead to inconsistent performance or damage.

Leave thermostat installation to pros. A licensed contractor will wire it correctly and pair it with your system.

The bottom line

Avoiding common HVAC missteps saves energy, reduces your bills and keeps your system running smoothly. Selecting the right-sized equipment, sealing air leaks and scheduling professional maintenance are crucial matters. Small efforts make a big difference.

2025-11-24T09:01:00

(BPT) – By Ned Monroe

From the front facade to under our feet to behind the walls, vinyl products are a key component in many of today’s homes. And for good reason: Vinyl is affordable, durable and low maintenance, with the ability to be used in several different applications, among many other benefits. Some vinyl products can even be reused or recycled to make new products. These attributes are more critical than ever as the U.S. faces a number of challenges, including housing shortages, displacement from natural disasters and rising costs.

Whether you’re buying a new home, considering a remodel or just want to update your aesthetic, here’s what to know about choosing vinyl for your home.

Q: How many different ways can vinyl be used in today’s homes?

A: Most of us think first about vinyl for siding. And it’s no wonder: Vinyl siding offers durability against wind, moisture and insects; requires little maintenance; and comes in a range of styles and colors. In fact, vinyl siding recently surpassed stucco as the country’s most used primary exterior wall material, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Home Builders.

And vinyl is a go-to material for many other products used to build long-lasting homes. These include:

• Decking, fencing and railing: Vinyl decking, fencing and railing materials resist splintering and rot, are not susceptible to insects, and require no staining or painting over the years.
• Windows & doors: Vinyl windows and doors provide the ideal combination of low cost, high performance and beautiful profiles. Plus, their multi-chambered frames improve insulation.
• Flooring: Vinyl flooring is also known as “resilient” flooring, and for good reason: It is moisture resistant, and it withstands heavy foot traffic and frequent cleaning.
• Wall coverings: Durability is critical for walls, and vinyl wall coverings provide scratch resistance and washable designs that are as well-suited not only for homes but for high-traffic spaces, including healthcare facilities.
• Wire & cable: Behind the walls, vinyl plays a critical role in how our homes run by providing insulation and jacketing for wires and cables. Vinyl electrical products provide excellent properties at low cost, and are particularly well suited to meet the concurrent electrical and fire safety requirements that are necessary for safe building design.
• Pipes & plumbing: Vinyl pipes, known commonly as PVC pipes, have been a trusted product for more than 70 years, thanks to their durability, safety and reliability.

Q: Are there specific ways today’s vinyl can make housing more affordable and resilient overall?

A: U.S. homebuyers and homeowners have been facing a number of critical challenges in recent years, stemming from decreased affordability and availability of housing stock, and increasing frequency of natural disasters. As builders look to build more efficiently and affordably to meet demand, as well as to rebuild in areas impacted by extreme weather, vinyl provides key support.

• Affordability & availability: Vinyl is one of the most affordable building materials while still offering long-term performance and durability, so choosing vinyl products like siding helps builders keep home prices more manageable. Many vinyl building materials are manufactured in the U.S., helping to ensure ready availability even when global supply chains become strained or face tariff uncertainties.
• Ease of installation: Finding workers is one of homebuilders’ biggest challenges. Vinyl products like windows, siding, flooring and decking offer straightforward installation that is easy to learn and master so contractors can move from project to project efficiently. This feature, combined with vinyl’s ready availability, is also critical for areas like Southern California and Western North Carolina, where there is urgent need for mass rebuilding in the wake of recent natural disasters.
• Aesthetics: No amount of affordability or ease of installation will replace eye-catching aesthetics — and vinyl answers that call, as well. Whether on the home exterior or inside underfoot, vinyl finish materials deliver beauty, timeless style and versatile options to achieve a look you’ll love.

Q: Can I find the style I’m looking for in vinyl products?

A: You absolutely can. Across major product categories, vinyl’s versatility has opened the door to a vast array of looks. This is particularly important in larger communities where the houses have a similar, cohesive aesthetic. For example, builders can use the same vinyl siding materials and brands while mixing up colors and profiles to ensure each home is unique. Homeowners can give their facades a facelift by re-siding or changing windows and doors in a completely new style while still retaining affordability and low maintenance. On the interior, the latest technologies in modern production and printing allow for floor and wall coverings that emulate nearly any material or design. The options are endless to achieve a desired look.

Q: Is it true you can recycle PVC?

A: Good news: Vinyl materials are a sustainable choice for a variety of reasons, including:

• Recyclability: Many vinyl materials can be recycled or reused to make new, durable products. Indeed, a survey of PVC recyclers in the U.S. and Canada has shown that 1.1 billion pounds of PVC is being recycled in these regions annually.^[1] The Vinyl Institute is helping to increase these opportunities through its VIABILITY recycling grant funding program, which invests in companies seeking to increase recycling collection streams and ease takeback efforts so that more end-of-life vinyl material can be diverted from landfills and become valuable in new ways.
• Resilience: Materials that are durable don’t need to be replaced as often, therefore helping to cut down on waste and the need for new materials. Vinyl fits this bill well, delivering reliable longevity that stands up to day-to-day life. It’s also low maintenance, eliminating the need for paints and stains, and is easy to clean.
• Life cycle and carbon footprint: A life cycle assessment carried out by Sustainable Solutions Corporation revealed that from a life cycle and carbon footprint perspective, PVC pipe has lower environmental impacts — lower embodied energy, lower use-phase energy and longer life attributes — compared to materials like iron, cement and clay. When considering the impacts throughout the product life cycle, PVC pipes require much less energy to manufacture and transport, and they can operate for more than a century and need fewer replacements over their lifetime.

Explore the Possibilities Vinyl Brings for Your Home

Whether visible from the street or keeping the electricity humming behind the walls, vinyl products are a reliable, affordable option as a building material for your home — and look beautiful, as well. As you consider future projects, large or small, look to vinyl to meet your needs indoors and out.

Read more about how vinyl materials are used in construction and about vinyl’s role in housing policies.

Ned Monroe is CEO of the Vinyl Institute. Learn more at www.vinylinfo.org.

2025-11-23T18:01:00

(BPT) – One of the joys of the holiday season is festive decorations indoors and out that captivate your family’s imagination and make your neighbors stare in wonder. However, decorating with traditional lighting can dampen your holiday spirit.

Luckily, you can create a beautifully lit home that evokes the joy of the season without a complex setup. Using some of the latest Govee smart Christmas lighting, you can effortlessly transform your home into a festive wonderland and create joyful holiday memories with minimal effort.

Are you ready to step into a new era of stress-free holiday decorating? Check out the following suggestions on how you can spend less time decorating and more time making memories with those you love most.

Get ready for instant holiday magic inside your home

Ready to create holiday memories? Start indoors. Don’t worry about spending hours wrestling with a complex setup. You can easily design a festive wonderland in just 15 minutes with Govee’s Christmas lights.

For example, hang the brand’s Sparkle String Lights along your window frames or sills, across mantels and above couches and other seating to create the perfect holiday ambiance. Once they’re exactly where you want them, you can switch from one dynamic color to another with a single tap and even use AI lighting bot to easily create your lighting effects, so you can enjoy an enchanting glow that feels effortless.

Create the perfect Christmas party ambiance

Whether it’s your first time hosting a festive gathering or you’re known as the ultimate holiday destination, impress your guests with vibrant indoor holiday lighting effects. You can easily coordinate all your indoor entertainment areas using Govee’s Curtain Lights Pro as an animated backdrop — like flying reindeer — and Christmas Tree Lights as a dazzling tree centerpiece.

Best of all? You can sync your lights and make them dance to the beat of your favorite holiday hits using Music DreamView. Watch as snowmen dance across your windows and the lights bounce to the tunes of your curated holiday playlist! You can also extend the festivities outdoors with Govee’s String Lights 2 — which can be set to display over 130+ animated scenes — and Net Lights to create over 78 dynamic scenes.

Become the neighborhood showstopper

Make your home the talk of the neighborhood by planning a captivating outdoor display.

Create a cohesive, breathtaking scene by installing Govee’s Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism, featuring the revolutionary Tri-Light system that offers three dynamic color zones, custom LEDs and year-round durability. Next, decorate your garden, lawn and other landscaping features with layers of Icicle Lights and Net Lights as well as Govee Christmas Cone Tree Lights. Finally, connect up to 10 Govee lights using DreamView to create a synchronized, immersive light show across the entire property.

Pro tip: After the holidays are over, don’t take down your lights! Govee’s versatile smart lighting can help you create an immersive indoor and outdoor experience year-round. Play around with the preset scenes of the Permanent Lights Prism and find the best cohesive setup for every season and celebration — including Halloween, Fourth of July, birthdays and game days.

Simply stunning decorations are just a tap away

All of these holiday lighting products have one huge benefit in common: Smart scheduling. Using the Govee Home App, you can control your holiday lights with just one tap, preset timers and scenes and connect your Alexa and Google Assistant to use the voice control features.

Holiday decorating isn’t just about lighting. It’s about creating memories that sparkle. To learn more about these magical holiday lighting options, visit Govee.com and Amazon.

2025-11-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – The eufyCam C35 is the perfect home security solution for houses of all types — bird houses, dog houses, hen houses — any area you want to keep secure. This versatile design has led eufy to declare the eufyCam C35 as the “Official Security Camera for Homes of All Shapes and Sizes.”

The compact and lightweight design of the eufyCam C35 enables the outdoor/indoor camera to be installed in virtually any space or surface. The eufyCam C35 can be mounted magnetically, tethered to a pole or tree branch with a weatherproofed strap or screwed into a flat surface.

The eufyCam C35 is designed with Pure Color Vision technology to capture every detail in true colors, even in low-light conditions.

This device can be synched with the new HomeBase Mini data hub for expanded local storage (up to 1TB microSD). The HomeBase Mini also provides advanced AI functionality, including cross-camera tracking, facial recognition, as well as vehicle and pet detection.

The eufyCam C35 can also be tethered to an optional solar panel for non-stop power and simplified maintenance. Plus, IP 67 weather protection means the device can withstand extreme heat and cold conditions.

The eufyCam C35 is available for $89.99 and you can find more information on this uniquely flexible security solution at eufy.com.

2025-11-17T05:01:00

(BPT) – Big plans for holiday festivities and houseguests this year? You’ll want to make sure your home is welcoming, calming and ready to handle the hustle and bustle of the season. With a few simple upgrades, you can ensure an elegant and joyful ambience that will endure long after the last gift has been unwrapped.

Here are a few ideas from the design experts at Kohler to enhance your home this holiday season.

Choose a practical, stylish upgrade for the heart of your home

Love to cook and entertain? Your kitchen sink is the unsung hero of the busy holidays, and you can do much more with it than wash dishes. A KOHLER^® Synthos Workstation Sink simplifies prep, enhances entertaining experiences and streamlines cleanup into one durable, elegant system for everyday efficiency and elevated gatherings.

Available in 30-, 36-, 48-, 60- and 72-inch widths, this essential kitchen station combines sleek design with multi-functional accessories for prep, cooking and cleanup, including a solid wood cutting board, stainless steel colander, prep bowl set, garnish bowl set, durable sink rack, soaking bin, serving tray, pot rack, salad bowl set and sink cover. You’ll have plenty of room for helping hands as you gather together to prepare, serve and savor festive meals.

Use scents to inspire calming and invigorating moods

Transform your bathroom into a spa using Sprig Essential Oils, with a choice of four wellness-focused blends your guests are sure to love. Designed to elevate daily routines with spa-like aromatherapy, these oils can be added to bathing or showering rituals, diffusers, steam sessions, or used in a sauna to enhance the experience. For example, you can add a few drops of Breathe essential oil to your Kohler stream head or dilute 5-10 drops to your diffuser.

• Breathe — Eucalyptus and Mint to revive and refresh: Enjoy the aromatic scent of cooling menthol from fresh cut mint and clean woodsy eucalyptus for an uplifting effect.
• Recharge — Bergamot and Lemongrass to energize and invigorate: The fresh, herbaceous lemongrass complements the floral and citrus bergamot, leaving you feeling revitalized.
• Relax — Chamomile, Grapefruit and Bergamot to calm and soothe: The floral and citrus notes of chamomile, grapefruit and bergamot blend harmoniously together to calm your mind and body.
• Sleep — Lavender and Vanilla for a serene environment: Create a relaxing nighttime ritual and decompress from the stress of the day with the calming, restful combination of sweet vanilla and peaceful lavender.

Sprig essential oils also make lovely and luxurious stocking stuffers, host or guest gifts, so be sure to stock up for your last-minute gifting needs!

Provide the comforts of home

Make sure your guests have everything they need by setting out a welcoming basket of items they may have forgotten to pack, including travel-sized toiletries, extra razors, toothbrushes — even mini first aid or sewing kits. You can even personalize the basket by selecting brands your guests prefer, or by including special things you know they would appreciate.

Upgrade your bathroom with a bidet seat

The KOHLER^® PureWash M300 bidet toilet seat is a hygienic, easy-to-install upgrade that makes it simple to add the freshness and assurance of personal cleansing to your existing toilet. With a sleek, low-profile seat design and a Polished Chrome handle, the PureWash M300 provides a dual-spray wand for front and rear cleansing.

This elongated manual bidet toilet seat requires no electricity or batteries, and it installs in minutes, connecting to the toilet’s water supply line. You and your guests will appreciate the Quiet-Close™ lid that prevents slamming, its convenient side lever handle that allows for water pressure adjustment, and the self-cleaning wand that automatically rinses after each use.

With some simple upgrades and a little extra preparation, you can create an inviting and hospitable atmosphere that helps you and your guests relax and enjoy celebrating the season.

Visit Kohler.com for more home design ideas and inspiration.

2025-10-30T07:01:04

(BPT) – For years, bathroom design was defined by straight lines, sharp corners and a sense of heavy minimalism. The 2010s were all about clean chrome fixtures, glossy tiles and match-everything finishes. But like all trends, the pendulum is swinging back. Today, we’re seeing softer curves inspired by mid-century design, tactile textures that add depth to flat surfaces and finishes that don’t need to match perfectly to feel cohesive. The bathroom space itself is also shifting from utilitarian to something reminiscent of a personal retreat. With so much changing, the big question becomes: How do you bring these contemporary touches into a remodel in a way that feels fresh, functional and most importantly, within budget?

Shape: The rise of curves

Today, straight, rigid lines are giving way to softer, more organic shapes. Arched mirrors, rounded shower openings and curved vanities are showing up everywhere, immediately making any bath space feel more inviting and full of character. With curved designs becoming a go-to choice, faucet fixtures are one of the easiest ways to experiment and introduce this trend. The new Ezra™ Curve Spout Expansion from Peerless^® Faucet, for example, includes a curved, arched spout and clean handle design that strikes the perfect balance between modern edge and approachability. All at a price point that makes an elevated, contemporary bathroom refresh achievable.

Surface: Texture and tactility

Flat, high-gloss surfaces are losing ground to materials with dimension. Fluted wooden cabinetry, ribbed tile and natural stone with dramatic veining are all on the rise. Introducing these textures in your next bathroom remodel can add visual depth and craftsmanship that plain finishes can’t deliver. Pairing them with softer silhouettes can also help keep the space from feeling too heavy-handed, creating a layered look that feels thoughtful rather than busy. If premium materials stretch your budget, mix in textured laminates, patterned tile or stone-look alternatives, as these affordable options still bring warmth, movement and modern sophistication to the space.

Finish: Mixing metals with intention

The “everything must match” rule is officially out. Today, mixing metals is not only acceptable, but recommended. If you’re renovating a bath space with limited resources or maybe can’t decide between metal finished accents, this design trend is for you. Matte black faucets can ground a space — making all the difference when paired with a brushed nickel or charming bronze finished mirror, for example. The trick is choosing one finish as your anchor and layering the others as accents to give you a collected and curated feel.

Function: Wellness and performance

For any bathroom remodel, it’s important to keep in mind that design conversations aren’t just about looks anymore; performance and responsibility are now part of the package. Wet rooms and spa-style showers are redefining what a bathroom can be, and they don’t have to cost a fortune. Using simple upgrades like a rainfall showerhead, frameless glass panels or budget-friendly waterproof wall panels can create that spa-like feel without a full gut renovation. Accessibility is also increasingly important, especially as about 75% of adults over 50 want to stay in their current homes or communities as long as possible. Features like ADA-friendly handles ensure the bathroom works for everyone, both now and in the future. For this, the latest Peerless^® Precept^® Bathroom + ADA expansion fits perfectly. It offers functionally designed options that combine style, ease of use and efficient performance.

A contemporary blueprint

Bathrooms today are about balance: Curved lines soften bold textures, mixed finishes create layers of personality and efficient fixtures deliver performance and functionality without compromising style. Taking inspiration from current bathroom remodel trends makes it easier than ever to recreate a space that feels contemporary and thoughtfully designed without requiring a large investment. By embracing these trends and crowdsourcing the right fixtures and/or products, bathroom remodels can achieve the ideal combination of contemporary appeal, lasting value and affordability.

2025-10-30T00:01:00

(BPT) – Couples everywhere strive to maintain household harmony despite their differences in habits, financial attitudes and approaches to life’s ups and downs. But for many, there comes a breaking point: the bathroom.

This is what’s driving many couples to seek a “bathroom divorce,” a growing trend when a couple realizes their relationship may benefit from creating two separate bathrooms, rather than unhappily sharing the same one.

A problem in search of a solution

Whether you hold widely different standards of cleanliness, battle daily over the countertop and storage space for personal products, have competing schedules each morning or simply want an oasis to call your own, you’re clearly not alone. Prioritizing personal space by wishing for two separate bathrooms is becoming increasingly popular and for good reason.

Although creating an additional bathroom may seem like the perfect solution, for many households, adding a second bath can seem impossible due to layout or plumbing constraints — not to mention financial considerations and the hassles that can come with a full bathroom renovation.

How to become happily ‘bathroom divorced’

The good news: It is possible to create an additional bathroom even in situations where space is limited, or where you would traditionally need to break through the floor or dig into concrete — like creating a new bathroom in a basement or former garage. The key is not needing to have the standard, below-floor plumbing you might expect for a bathroom addition.

How is this accomplished? With a macerator pump system, you can transform underutilized or unexpected spaces into full, functional bathrooms.

For example, manufacturer SFA Saniflo offers multiple smart, above-floor plumbing solutions like their Saniaccess 3, which is ideal for adding a full bathroom in a light-traffic area. The Saniaccess 3 is a half-horsepower macerator pump system for installing a complete bathroom up to 15 feet below a sewer line or up to 150 feet away from a soil stack.

Including a two-piece toilet that flushes through a horizontal, rear-discharge spigot, this above-floor system goes beyond merely macerating toilet waste (black water). It can also efficiently handle gray water drainage from two other fixtures, such as a nearby sink, tub or shower. The above-floor plumbing is ideal for repurposing small, awkward or out-of-the-way spaces.

Saniflo products eliminate the need for costly, disruptive construction, making it possible to add bathrooms almost anywhere. The company also offers options that are flexible enough for full bathrooms (toilet, sink, shower) or half-baths, depending on space and needs for any given project.

Best yet, these products require shorter installation time and lower costs compared to conventional plumbing solutions.

Real-life solutions

The Mignon family in Long Island, New York, had only one full bath and a half bath in their home, and desperately wanted another full bathroom to accommodate the needs of their family of four. But the only option was to transform a downstairs mudroom into a full bathroom.

The Mignons didn’t want to subject their family to the disruptive renovation of a traditional plumbing installation that would mean digging trenches through their garage floor for proper drainage — a process that could cost thousands of dollars.

To avoid a costly renovation and major construction hassles required by conventional below-floor plumbing drainage, the Mignons instead chose Saniflo’s Saniaccess 3 macerating pump system to convert their unused mudroom into their dream en-suite with a full shower, toilet and spacious vanity.

This flexibility also makes it possible to undergo a bathroom makeover in situations such as a condominium or townhouse that might have stringent limitations on renovation. For example, the Hightower couple in Atlanta, Georgia, wanted to renovate their master bathroom, but soon found that the rules of their condo’s building association wouldn’t allow renovations that would go through each floor’s foot-thick concrete floor.

Instead, the Hightowers were able to make the change they wanted through installation of the one-piece, dual-flush Sanicompact Comfort macerating toilet, saving the cost, hassle and inconvenience of lifting the floor 8-10 inches to accommodate below-floor drainage.

Could a bathroom divorce be the secret to domestic bliss?

These practical solutions mean not only making optimal use of space to provide a much-needed additional bathroom, but they come without the household upheaval and budget constraints many bathroom renovations entail.

If the idea of separate bathrooms appeals to you and your partner, explore the possibilities available for your home with macerating pump systems from SFA Saniflo. For more information, visit SFASaniflo.com.

2025-10-29T15:31:00

(BPT) – Today’s homeowners are increasingly focused on creating spaces that endure the elements while leaving a lighter environmental footprint. This growing focus on resilience and sustainability is driving demand for home features that can withstand extreme weather and changing climates. In fact, Zillow reports that 86% of recent buyers say it’s very important for a home to include at least one climate-resilient component.

When it comes to outdoor spaces, composite decking delivers on all fronts, offering five key benefits that make it a smart, stylish and sustainable upgrade.

1. Weatherability

Traditional wood decks can warp, splinter, crack or fade under extreme conditions. Composite decking, by contrast, is engineered to resist fading, scratches and stains while withstanding rain, sun, wind and snow without losing structural integrity. Performance-engineered products, like those from Trex^®, are built to perform beautifully for decades and backed by warranties of up to 50 years.

2. Heat mitigation

No matter the decking material, a deck surface can become uncomfortably hot under direct sun. Heat-mitigating composite decking reflects solar energy, reduces surface temperatures, and keeps decks cooler, providing comfort even during the hottest days.

3. Fire resistance

In regions across the country prone to wildfires or brush fires, fire-resistant materials are increasingly important. Composite decking that meets Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) standards provides peace of mind without compromising on style or durability.

4. Marine-grade durability

Whether near a lake, river, or coastline, moisture and salt exposure can quickly degrade wood decks. High-performance composite decking is not only 100% submersible but also saltwater-safe and built to withstand harsh wet conditions, making it a smart choice nationwide for homes in high-humidity or waterfront areas.

5. Sustainability

Durability goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility. Made from up to 95% recycled and reclaimed materials and manufactured in the U.S., Trex composite decking offers a sustainable choice that also stands up to decades of wear.

Expert tip for extra longevity

For lasting performance and added protection, apply waterproof flashing tape (e.g., Trex^® Protect™) to the wooden joists and beams of the substructure. This simple, cost-effective step safeguards the foundation from moisture damage, helping it to last as long as the decking itself.

To learn more about the benefits of composite decking, visit Trex.com.

2025-10-22T05:01:00

(BPT) – The desire to bring the outdoors in continues to inspire homeowners and designers alike. Natural, earthy neutrals and a variety of green shades are key to this trend as it encompasses more areas of the home. In fact, according to independent research among homeowners, the vast majority of consumers (88%) are interested in color palettes other than white and chrome for their next kitchen or bath remodel, with a preference toward neutrals and earth tones like greens.

So if stark white kitchens and baths are no longer trending, how can you celebrate natural neutrals and greens in these spaces? To help you get started, Kohler now offers a variety of bath and kitchen essentials in these colors, merging modern and vintage aesthetics to bring a sense of tranquility and timeless style into the busiest rooms of your home.

“The healing power of nature helps explain why we’re drawn to these colors,” said Alex Yacavone, Senior Manager at Kohler, Industrial Design Studio. “Greens and earthy neutrals effectively create a serene, soothing environment to elevate any room.”

Neutral elements for a timeless, nature-inspired style

When you look at what creates timeless interior design, it’s clear that it’s rooted in thoughtful materials, classic silhouettes and livable color. Elements of nature, paired with classic design details, ensure these spaces remain relevant and comforting over time.

Born out of an appreciation for craftsmanship from previous centuries, bath and kitchen options from Kohler embrace the quiet beauty of neutrals that can make an elevated statement in their own right.

Looking for a stylish bathroom addition? The Artifacts Cast Iron Free Standing Bath in Dune is inspired by the charm of turn-of-the-century homes, like a vintage treasure rediscovered but enhanced by the comforts of modern design — such as a gently curved rim for added neck support. You can also customize your Artifacts bath with a set of ornate ball-and-claw feet.

Creating a stunning focal point inspired by studio pottery, the Derring Oval Sink in Bourbon Rutile celebrates the beauty and authenticity of handcrafted ceramics. Each sink is finished with unique artisanal glazes that produce fascinating surface effects, with a hand-carved texture that accentuates the glaze’s subtle tonal variations.

If you’ve always wanted a sink that embraces farmhouse style, the streamlined apron-front Whitehaven Cast Iron in Truffle is perfect for remodeling projects. The Self-Trimming design requires only a rough cut to new or existing 30-inch standard cabinetry for simple installation and beautiful results. Crafted from enameled cast iron, the sink resists chipping, cracking or burning for years of beauty and reliable performance.

In exploring nature, people are drawn not only to the earthy neutrals that bring calm and familiarity to interiors, but also to the pops of green that breathe life into a space without overwhelming it.

Lasting shades of green

With the Kohler Heritage Greens collection, you can transform your kitchen and bath using bold, nature-inspired hues. This collection is inspired by carefully curated iconic greens from the Kohler archives, brought back to life in current kitchen and bath products. Inspired by the beauty of the outdoors, these shades are perfectly suited for classic or contemporary designs, and will blend effortlessly with your existing decor:

• Fresh Green (1971) is a lively shade reminiscent of a spring garden, ideal for adding bright energy to kitchens and bathrooms.
• Aspen Green (1978) captures serene tones of mountain pines for a calming color that works as a neutral or makes a statement in any space.
• Teal (1987) is a deep, dramatic green/blue blend that infuses striking, nature-inspired character into your design vision.

Bringing greens into the kitchen or bathroom allows you to experiment with nature’s neutral hues that pair with a wide range of design aesthetics. Kohler’s Heritage colors showcase the versatility of green by offering a serene, calming atmosphere with Aspen Green and a deeper, moodier tone with Teal. The differences in hue demonstrate how green carries a lasting appeal, showcasing how green can sit in modern and classic spaces alike.

Searching for a piece that draws inspiration from traditional furniture and architectural elements? The Memoirs Stately Pedestal Sink in Teal offers crisp, clean lines evoking the splendor of fine antiques.

Similarly, the Memoirs Stately Toilet in Aspen Green features the elegant architectural look of the Memoirs collection along with vintage-inspired Stately design, combining performance with traditional style.

Neutral, nature-inspired colors and finishes can lead to grounded spaces that feel connected to the natural world, evoking a fresh, timeless appeal that’s versatile and welcoming. Come home to the colors of nature at Kohler.com.