Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-11-16T11:01:05

(BPT) – The demand for homes with sustainable features is growing. However, home building companies that are committed to sustainability recognize that how you build a home is just as important as the home itself. Below are three ways that Clayton, a leading national builder of single-family attainable housing, is investing in practices that promote sustainability in their operations.

1. Reducing emissions

According to the Rocky Mountain Institute^®, new home constructions in the U.S. create over 50 million tons of carbon emissions each year. That’s why it’s important for home builders to find ways to reduce or offset their emissions.

To reduce emissions in its operations, Clayton is working to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The home builder is working toward this goal by transitioning to a hybrid fleet of light-duty pickups for transportation and using electric forklifts and other equipment in its operations.

2. Using renewable energy

Clayton is also continuing to increase its reliance on renewable energy. In December 2019, Clayton Sulphur Springs, a home building facility, installed its first solar carport system (200 kW). This installation allowed the site to offset 30-40% of its electricity usage with renewable energy. Starting this year, Clayton has initiated four new solar projects for systems to be installed at home building facilities in East Tennessee, Arizona and at Clayton’s home office.

3. Reducing waste

Because of all the materials needed to build a home, it’s important that homebuilders focus on identifying ways to reduce waste in their operations. Through careful planning, they can prevent tons of waste from ending up in landfills.

There are a few different ways builders can decrease waste in their operations. For example, Clayton collaborates with its suppliers to reduce inbound building material packaging and waste. As raw building materials are used Clayton uses material reuse programs on the production line to repurpose building supplies for other parts of the home building process.

Continuous improvement

Environmental responsibility in home building goes beyond the design of the home. It’s also about how homes are built. Clayton is an example of a builder who’s driving change through renewable energy usage, focusing on reducing operating emissions and finding ways to enhance waste reduction. To learn more, visit claytonhomes.com/sustainability/

2023-11-07T06:01:00

(BPT) – Is making your house shine with the glow of the holidays at the top of your to-do list this season? Whether it’s your first time decorating your home or you’d like to try something new to make your house stand out, here are some ideas and tips to help you bring an abundance of holiday cheer to your block this year.

1. Get the big picture

Before you grab the ladder and bring out the lights, it’s advisable to create a master plan. Whether you make a sketch of the front of your house or take a picture with your phone, use that image to help you decide what your overall effect will be.

Do you want to simply outline the major features of your home like the roofline, large windows and doorway? Could you create new fun shapes with your lights, or call attention to special parts of your home, like a bay window, front gable or posts? Consider twining your holiday lights with garlands so your doorway or porch will look extra fun and festive. Once your game plan is set, measure everywhere you want to illuminate to ensure that you have enough lights.

2. Safety first

When you’re ready to set up your lights, make sure you have safety measures in place, like a sturdy ladder, protective goggles and gloves, plus an eager assistant or two. Pick a day to work on your lights when the weather is on your side — not too cold or icy — and start early enough so you’ll have plenty of daylight to get the job done. Be sure that any outdoor extension cords you use are heavy-duty, weatherproof and long enough to run from your outlets to the lights.

Before installing your lights, make sure to look for bulbs that aren’t working. It’s a lot easier to replace them when they’re on the ground.

3. Gather your supplies

Make your light installation job even easier with the right tools. For example, the Arrow T25X WireMate Wire Stapler is a handy, ergonomic cable tacker with a compact design and precise control that makes it comfortable and easy to use — especially if you have medium or smaller hands. Its simple loading mechanism and release make loading staples as easy as pushing a button. You can use it for stapling your holiday lights and/or garlands into hard surfaces like fiber cement siding materials and hardwood trim.

The T25X works exclusively with genuine Arrow T25 staples, and can be used to fasten wires up to 1/4-inch in diameter. You may also want to have an Arrow SL24D Staple Lifter on hand, in case you need to reposition any lights — and of course to use after the season is over.

4. Expand your decorating areas

Want to take your holiday lighting to the next level? Consider new areas to brighten up this year. How about the trees and bushes in your yard? Net lighting makes it easy to bring holiday cheer to your shrubbery. If you’re feeling ambitious, why not decorate the sides and back of your home, plus the backyard, too?

If you have a deck, patio, fences or shed, these can be fun areas to light up, especially if you enjoy playing outside in the evening or gathering around a fire pit to roast marshmallows with friends and family. Even when you’re indoors, your whole yard will look pretty as you gaze out the windows from inside your cozy living room or family room on a cold winter night.

5. Switch it up, then switch them on!

Today’s holiday lighting options come in a much wider variety than ever before — including many different bulb shapes, sizes and colors. Consider layering or varying the kinds of lighting you use from one section of your house to another for visual contrast. You can also try the latest smart lighting that’s programmable to change color, blink in different patterns or even in response to holiday music. Switch up your usual options for something new, stand back and see how it looks! Have fun with it, and your home will be the talk of the neighborhood!

Learn more about setting up your holiday lights at ArrowFastener.com.

2023-11-03T02:01:00

(BPT) – It’s time to start prepping for the winter holidays! If you regularly host intimate family gatherings or bustling parties with friends and co-workers, you know that holiday hosting is an art. For the uninitiated, it can seem daunting, but the joy of creating an experience your guests won’t soon forget is worth the effort. Whether you’re a pro or a novice, the following five tips will help you master the art of hospitality just in time for the holidays.

1. Plan ahead

Avoid last-minute stress by starting your holiday event planning a few weeks in advance. Once you’ve chosen a date, create a guest list so you have an idea of how much food and drink you’ll need to prepare for the big day. Send out your invites and adjust your grocery list as needed as the RSVPs roll in.

Next, make a detailed timeline and to-do list to help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important tasks. This will also help you figure out which errands and preparations can be accomplished ahead of time and which need to be completed on the day of the party.

2. Create a cozy ambiance

Embrace the season and decorate accordingly to create a cozy environment for your guests. Seasonal decorations — like flowers, wreaths, twinkling lights and scented candles — can set the mood for the holiday gathering and make your home feel festive and inviting. Don’t overdo it! Simple, elegant decor is more effective and comfortable than an overcrowded space.

Don’t forget the tunes! Pick holiday songs, crowd-pleasing hits or even simple background music to play during your gathering. You can even invite guests to contribute their picks using a collaborative playlist.

3. Prepare an upscale menu

Plan a menu of appetizers, main course, sides and desserts for your holiday dinner. You don’t have to make enough food to feed an army, but make sure you’ll have enough to feed everyone and perhaps have leftovers for guests to take home.

When choosing the main course, pick dishes that are filling and fancy. For example, treat your family and friends to an elevated eating experience by serving premium beef and pork from a purveyor like Creekstone Farms. The Pecan-Crusted Strip Steak recipe is perfect for the holidays, or anytime you want to get together! Also, consider cooking a Reverse Seared Standing Prime Rib, a smoky dish that melts in your mouth. Pair it with creme fraiche horseradish and you’ll have no regrets.

4. Offer a variety of drinks

Once you have dinner planned, think of drinks that complement the dinner menu. Make sure to have a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic options so everyone can enjoy the festivities. You can even create a signature holiday cocktail for the event to add a memorable touch. After dinner, offer coffee (regular and decaf), tea, cider and hot chocolate to amp up the cozy factor.

5. Organize entertainment

Organize activities your guests can look forward to after dinner when there’s a lull in energy as people digest the delicious meal. This is the time to dig into your board game closet and pull out some childhood favorites or set up a gift exchange. You can also find some interesting card games that help guests get to know each other, which is particularly fun if your holiday gathering is a mix of friends, family and colleagues.

Bonus tip

Hosting can be a lot of work, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself! In the midst of the hustle and bustle, take a moment to savor the event you’ve created.

Prepping ahead should help you get into the festive spirit, but you can also consider saving time by purchasing meal boxes to make decadent, savory holiday meals with minimal fuss. You can check out Creekstone Farms’ online store and peruse their meat boxes that offer convenient yet upscale holiday dinners.

Using these five hosting tips, you can elevate your holiday gathering so everyone can create fond memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t be afraid to put your own personal spin on them so the holiday dinner reflects your special brand of hospitality. Happy hosting!

2023-11-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – With the influx of Proptech and emerging living behaviors following COVID-19, multifamily is changing. Allegion surveyed today’s renters to uncover what they value most, and a few of the findings are below.

2023-11-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Maybe you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of big city life. The sky-high rent, cramped living spaces, constant traffic and crowds are getting to you. You may even be looking for an affordable place to settle down and start a family or launch that business idea you’ve been dreaming about.

Places like Knoxville, Tennessee; Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Greenville, North Carolina offer a lower cost of living, scenic surroundings, and vibrant downtowns with thriving arts and food scenes. That, understandably, makes them an appealing alternative to major metro areas.

And the numbers don’t lie. According to the 2023 Mayflower “Finding Home” study and census data, Americans are flocking to mid-size cities in record numbers — a trend that is only accelerating.

Want to learn more? Check out the top six reasons mid-size cities could be calling your name.

Lower Cost of Living

Tired of paying through the nose for basic necessities? You’re not alone — the cost of living in larger metros has skyrocketed, making homeownership seem out of reach for many. So, it’s no wonder 91% of movers cite cost of living as an important factor when choosing a new city.

With housing costs up to 50% less than in larger cities, you’ll find lower prices on everything from groceries to utilities in mid-size cities. Of course, the secret is out: According to Mayflower data, over 60% of people moved to Indianapolis and Charlotte, for example, for lower costs.

Strong Sense of Community

Mid-size cities are also characterized by having tight-knit communities. Residents report friendlier neighbors, feeling more connected to those around them and an overall warmer, welcoming vibe. Many transplants also say they like how these communities embrace newcomers, unlike the anonymity they experienced in bigger cities.

Access to Arts and Culture

Nearly half of movers cited proximity to arts and culture as an influence. Fortunately, mid-size cities — like Knoxville, Indianapolis, Fayetteville and Santa Fe — brim with museums, live music venues and craft breweries. Many boast local sports teams as well.

Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty

Two-thirds of survey respondents indicated weather and access to nature as top reasons for their move. Mid-size cities near natural amenities like beaches, lakes, mountains, and state and national parks are particularly popular destinations. Where outdoor recreation opportunities abound, residents enjoy hiking, biking, fishing and other readily available activities during their free time.

Thriving Job Markets

While mid-size cities may move at a slower pace, their job markets are still buzzing. It turns out, major employers are setting up shop in mid-size cities to take advantage of lower costs and taxes, too. This is creating new opportunities in industries like healthcare, finance, tech and business services, to name a few.

Remote Work

The pandemic allowed many people to work remotely, freeing them up to relocate wherever they please. As companies adopt hybrid or fully remote work models, employees no longer need to live in major cities just for their jobs. This flexibility has opened people’s eyes to the appeal of mid-size cities.

Dreaming of a move to a place where you can slow down, connect with like-minded people and enjoy life’s simple pleasures? Join the growing numbers settling in mid-size cities. The welcome mat is out, and there’s a spot waiting for you.

2023-11-01T12:01:01

(BPT) – Fire pits are more popular than ever, and for good reason. Not only do they look beautiful, but they provide real warmth, and their flickering flames entice friends and family to gather for storytelling, making s’mores and having a great time together. Fire pits are also a relatively easy DIY project, even for beginners, as long as you have the right materials.

If you’re considering adding a fire pit to enhance your yard, here are some things you’ll want to think about before you begin.

1. Determine your top reasons for building a fire pit

Knowing why you want a fire pit and how you primarily plan to use it can help you make a number of other decisions, such as where to put it, the materials to use, plus what size and shape you want it to be.

For example, are you primarily interested in its decorative value? A well-constructed, attractive fire pit adds visual interest to your outdoor space as well as increasing the value of your home. Do you mostly want to create a warm place to gather, extending the use of your yard into the evening and beyond the warm-weather months? Would you like to grill or cook food on it (beyond the obligatory s’mores, of course!), and do you see it as another way to help keep pests at bay? Fire pits can provide all these benefits, and more.

2. Choose concrete blocks to create your fire pit

Square fire pits can quickly and easily modernize a space, and they are easily created using concrete blocks. Because a square shape mimics the angular lines of your home, it helps to create the visual sense of a natural continuation of your living space, drawing the indoors out.

You can use Ladera Wall Block or the versatile Rumblestone^® Wall System to create your square fire pit, and make sure to get a Pavestone fire insert to create a heat barrier between the fire and the wall blocks.

3. Where should you put it?

Placement is very important. For fire safety, first of all, it’s crucial that your fire pit is not located too close to your home or any other structures, as well as trees, shrubs or other plants. You’ll also want to check with your local municipality for rules and regulations regarding the placement of fire pits, and some areas also require that you apply for a permit.

Beyond safety considerations, you’ll want to decide whether your fire pit will be a central focal point for your outdoor space, or if it will serve as a natural boundary feature. Where you place the fire pit will also help you decide on its size and shape.

4. Don’t be afraid to DIY

While you could hire a professional to build your fire pit for you, it’s actually not that hard to construct a fire pit for less cost — and in minutes — using the right products.

For example, creating a fire pit with Ladera Wall Block is a satisfying weekend project, and can easily be installed using QUIKRETE^® Construction Adhesive. No cuts, special cap or corner blocks are needed to complete your fire pit. The blocks are available in seven different face patterns, allowing varying false joints to mask any pattern repetition, so you can achieve a contemporary look that blends linear lines with subtle, natural textures. Then all you’ll need is a fire pit insert and lava rock to fill the cavity base.

5. Opt for durability

Creating a fire pit using concrete blocks has definite advantages. Your new fire pit will be strong enough to withstand the elements so you’ll be able to enjoy it for a long time. However, you will also be able to pick up and move your firepit elsewhere if your design changes, as long as it is installed on the surface.

Keeping these factors in mind, you should be able to create a beautiful fire pit that will transform your backyard into a cozy spot to gather and make memories with friends and family for years to come.

Visit Pavestone.com/retaining-walls to watch a step-by-step video showing how to construct your fire pit using Ladera Wall Block.

2023-10-28T23:01:00

(BPT) – When you walk from room to room within your home, do you see yourself within the design? For many people, the answer is no. They tend to select interior design based on trends or what other people suggest, which makes the space feel less authentic.

Your home should feel unique to you and be a place you love today and years from now. It’s important to consider your personal preferences and style so that you can create a home that is uniquely yours, and the best places to focus this energy are the kitchen and bathrooms.

“Kitchens and bathrooms often feature white colors and clean lines, but there’s no rule that says that’s the only option,” said Alex Yacavone, Kohler Design Studio manager who specializes in color, material and finish. “It’s an exciting time for interior design because more people are getting away from basic neutrals and adding their personality in new, unexpected ways.”

She stressed that kitchens and bathrooms are the best places within the home to transform interior design with your personality in mind. Bathrooms are some of the most frequently visited spaces in the house and kitchens are the center of it all. Investing in the design of these spaces is worthwhile because it will be regularly used and enjoyed.

Ideas to get started

Yacavone suggests thinking about your goals. How do you plan to interact with the space? What would make this interaction more useful and enjoyable? What elements have you noticed and noted in magazines, stores or other homes? The answers to these questions will give you direction.

One of the best ways to add personality to a space is through elements of different color, material and finish. This allows you to tell a story in the design and make the space one of a kind. Think of different hues or textures that speak to you and how they reflect your personal style or the energy you want to evoke. Yacavone shares some examples:

Titanium: Conveys strength and style. Moodier and deeper in tone than polished nickel or chrome, it complements dark spaces as well as bright clean backdrops.

Matte black: Feels rich and modern. For instance, this striking hue becomes a defining bathroom element in the honed black color Numi 2.0 rectangle toilet.

French gold: Warm and refined, French gold is a finish that can be layered into many different aesthetics, standing the test of time in bathrooms and kitchens.

Heritage colors: Fun and eye-catching, explore pops of color found in Kohler’s heritage collection. For example, a kitchen sink in the vivid teal hue Spring Green or a clawfoot bathtub in the warm pink tone of Peachblow.

Florals: Classic and comfortable, consider featuring florals in unexpected ways including the bold floral photography sink designs in the Dutchmaster collection.

Soft neutrals: Organic and welcoming, the new color Truffle is a warm neutral that is an ideal foundational color. Reflective of Mother Nature, Truffle complements warm finishes well, including French gold.

For more ideas and inspiration about finish, color and material, visit Kohler.com.

Striking balance

When adding personality to the kitchen and bath, it’s important to find balance in design. A good way to make sure personal design doesn’t go overboard is to determine a focal point.

“Select a focal point in the room and build out from there,” suggested Yacavone. “Maybe it’s colored cabinets or a pattern on the sink. This becomes your touchstone that you can go back to if it feels like you’re losing focus or adding too many competing elements.”

Go ahead, get personal

Your home is where you should feel you belong. Adding personality to kitchen and bathroom spaces allows you to create a home that is uniquely yours. Explore how your individual style can redefine your interior design choices.

2023-10-27T14:45:00

(BPT) – Your bathroom should be a comfortable and safe sanctuary, providing a space to relax and rejuvenate. However, for homeowners with mobility challenges, the bathroom can become a potential hazard. Fortunately, several essential mobility upgrades can transform a bathroom into a safer and more accessible space.

1. Tub-to-Shower Conversions

For many homeowners, the traditional bathtub can be a significant obstacle when mobility is an issue. Stepping over the side of a tub can be challenging, making it a potential slip-and-fall hazard. That’s where a tub-to-shower conversion can help.

Tub-to-shower remodeling involves removing the tub and replacing it with a low-threshold shower. This upgrade not only makes it easier to access the shower but also provides a more open and spacious bathing area. To learn more about tub-to-shower conversions and how they can improve your bathroom’s accessibility, visit Modernize Home Services’ guide to tub-to-shower conversions.

2. Walk-In Tubs

If you need a comprehensive solution to bathroom safety and accessibility, a walk-in tub or walk-in tub/shower combo can be excellent options. These specialized tubs are designed with a door that allows you to enter and exit without stepping over a high wall, and a walk-in tub shower combo makes it possible to take a shower in the tub if preferred.

Walk-in tubs typically include built-in handrails, anti-slip flooring, and comfortable seating, ensuring a secure and relaxing bathing experience. To explore the different types of walk-in tubs and understand how they can benefit you, you can read Modernize.com’s overview of walk-in tub types.

3. Other Bathroom Accessibility Modifications

Beyond tub-to-shower conversions and walk-in tubs, other accessibility modifications can enhance the safety of your bathroom. These include:

• Safety Bar for Bathroom: Installing safety bars in areas of your bathroom, such as by the toilet and in the shower, can provide much-needed support for stability.
• Handheld Showerheads: These allow for greater flexibility and ease when showering, making it more accessible for everyone.
• Non-Slip Flooring: Consider upgrading your bathroom flooring to non-slip options to reduce the risk of accidents.

Explore a robust list of bathroom accessibility modifications and understand how they can make your bathroom safer; review Modernize’s page on bathroom accessibility modifications.

4. How to Save on Bathroom Tub Remodeling

While a safe and accessible bathroom is a top priority, it’s also essential to stay within your budget when making improvements. Remodeling your bathroom can be a significant investment, but there are ways to save money without compromising on quality and safety.

Discover tips for saving money on a walk-in tub project with Modernize.com’s guide to saving money on a walk-in tub. This resource provides insights into cost-effective strategies for bath remodels and the potential avenues for financial assistance with home accessibility modifications.

Hire a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Enhancing bathroom safety is a significant step toward improving your home’s overall accessibility, and it can make an important difference in your daily life.

Take the first step toward creating a safer and more comfortable bathroom for you and your loved ones by meeting with an experienced bathroom remodeler, such as American Standard Home Services, to discuss your needs and budget.

Modernize.com can match you with a professional in your area: https://modernize.com/bathroom-remodel.

2023-10-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re concerned about your home’s air quality, especially if anyone in your household has asthma or allergies, now is the perfect time to consider cleaning up your indoor air quality. With fall allergy season in full swing and colder air on the way, the quality of the air in your home is more important than ever.

Here are tips to improve your indoor air quality.

Change air filters frequently

When filters aren’t replaced, dirt and debris buildup results in more particles remaining in the air and decreased airflow. This makes your HVAC system work harder, reducing efficiency and raising energy bills. It’s crucial to regularly replace disposable filters that can be found in furnaces, air conditioners, air handlers, humidifiers or cleaners. Be sure to clean any filters that are not disposable.

How often should you change filters? Start by checking the owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Trane Residential, a leading residential HVAC brand, recommends changing them every 30-90 days.

Need help remembering to replace air filters or getting the correct size? Get a subscription! TraneFilter powered by FilterTime is a subscription service that ensures you’ll have the right-sized filter at the right time. Consider signing up for a subscription using the Trane Home app or at TraneFilters.com. You can set up filter reminders in your Trane Home app, and you’ll receive free shipping of replacement filters directly to your door.

Eliminate sources of indoor pollutants

Common sources include gas stoves, some cleaning supplies, paints, tobacco products and wood-burning fireplaces. When contaminant levels are high, effects from exposure can show up immediately such as irritation of eyes, nose and throat, headaches, dizziness and/or fatigue.

Use controlled ventilation

When sources of indoor air pollutants can’t be eliminated, consider supplying clean, fresh air to your indoor environment. Opening windows may allow for air exchange but won’t filter the incoming air or block allergens or asthma triggers like pollen.

The best way to ensure adequate fresh air is supplied to your home is to keep windows and doors shut and use a filtered mechanical ventilator to bring fresh air in, filter it through your HVAC system and expel the stale and polluted air outside.

Add a whole-home air-cleaning device

Exceeding what standard HVAC filters can do, a whole-home air cleaning device removes harmful fine particulates, smells, allergens, mold, and viruses from the air. For example, a Trane CleanEffects® Whole Home Air Cleaner can remove up to 99.98% of unwanted airborne pollutants as small as .3 microns.

CleanEffects is certified asthma & allergy friendly® by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. For the over 65 million Americans with asthma and allergies, this certification mark guides consumers in identifying products more suitable for people with asthma and allergies. The asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Mark is awarded only to products scientifically proven to reduce exposure to asthma and allergy triggers.

Make it easier to live with your four-legged friends

Air quality is even more important if you have fur babies in your home, as pet dander is a common allergen. A Trane Residential survey of 2,000 pet owners conducted by OnePoll found the average pet owner spends 832 hours each year cleaning after their pets, and 3 in 4 say they clean their homes constantly since getting their furry friend.

When it comes to allergies, 45% of pet owners said they were happy to put up with some sneezing. If this sounds familiar, using a whole-home air cleaning device can improve your comfort while enjoying your furry family members.

Balance humidity

Maintaining your home’s humidity level between 35-60% is another factor in improving indoor air quality. Mold, dust mites, and other air pollutants tend to thrive outside that humidity range. You can monitor humidity levels through a reliable HVAC thermostat and help manage it with a whole home dehumidifier and/or humidifier.

Set up an HVAC service check

It’s important to test your home’s indoor air quality to identify pervasive issues like pollen or allergen introduction that can negatively affect you or someone with asthma and/or allergies.

If you’re experiencing health symptoms that may be related to bad air or just want peace of mind, have a local Trane Comfort Specialist near you test your home’s air. They can help you find solutions to reduce air pollutants and improve your home’s overall air quality.

In honor of National Indoor Air Quality Awareness Month, learn more and act now to breathe easier at Trane.com.

2023-10-25T13:51:00

(BPT) – When it comes to your deck, the railing is not just a functional necessity but also a crucial design element that can enhance the aesthetics and safety of your outdoor space. But, with so many options and industry jargon to decipher, choosing the right deck railing system can be daunting. Fear not. This article will guide you through the world of deck railing — from spindles to solar caps — to help you make informed decisions that suit your style and practical needs.

For perfect pairings, Trex offers a Decking & Railing Duos tool on its website, which features designer-curated decking and railing combinations.

Now that you’re familiar with the various deck railing options and common terms, you can confidently embark on your deck project. Remember that the right deck railing not only enhances safety but also adds personality and charm to your outdoor space, making it a place where you’ll love to spend time for years to come. For more information about deck railing, visit Trex.com.