Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-09-29T10:29:00

(BPT) – Cool spots. Warm spots. Rooms that smell musty. A system that seems to perpetually be cycling on and off. Any of these issues (and more) may have you doubting your HVAC system … and wondering if it’s time for a replacement. New equipment is a significant investment so it’s important to consider whether other issues could be causing HVAC havoc in your home. How can you determine if new HVAC equipment is the best solution for what your home needs?

An HVAC contractor who understands how the components of a home’s heating and cooling system work together is key to supporting your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Here are six questions you can use to get the conversation going and help evaluate whether an HVAC contractor is the right fit to solve your home comfort issues.

1. What might be causing the problem?

Whether you’re experiencing comfort issues, a high electric bill or a system that can’t keep up, you shouldn’t assume the problem is your AC unit or furnace. A knowledgeable HVAC contractor trained to care for a home’s air should be able to present you with a few possibilities but will only confirm the causes after a thorough inspection. There’s a difference between being experienced with typical issues and jumping to conclusions.

2. What parts of my home will you be evaluating?

Various components of the HVAC work as a system, so it is important that a contractor does not just check the air conditioning unit or thermostat. That means various components depend on one another. An issue in one place — like a poorly insulated attic or even a dirty furnace filter — can put stresses on other areas (such as making a system run too frequently). Your HVAC contractor should be gathering all of the information necessary to make a proper diagnosis. Their inspection should always include a look around the attic. Problems with attic ductwork — like insufficient insulation or holes, leaks and loose connections in ductwork — can lead to issues throughout a home. The inspection process should be comprehensive — so your decision can be an informed one.

3. What if you determine the problem isn’t my equipment (or it’s more than my equipment)?

Your HVAC contractor should be prepared to service all aspects of your HVAC system. This includes things like properly sealing or insulating ductwork, ensuring the attic is properly insulated, and, yes, repairing or replacing furnace and AC units when required. They should be ready with holistic solutions that may touch multiple components — and the “box” might not even be on the list.

4. What’s your expertise in HVAC issues beyond the unit?

Many of us assume our HVAC contractors are experts in the equipment they sell and service, but how do you know if they’re experts in the other components of a system, such as ductwork and insulation? Owens Corning^® Certified AirCare^® Professionals receive special training and tools that support a whole-home approach to HVAC solutions. They have the skills and equipment to properly evaluate your HVAC issues and correct them with trusted materials from Owens Corning^®.

5. What difference will your recommendations make in my home?

Your HVAC contractor should be able to explain to you how any recommended repairs, replacements and additions will help solve your issues. For example, sealing leaky ducts may address problems with excess dust in your home. Proper attic insulation helps keep your living spaces warm in winter and cool in summer. A properly trained contractor can — and should — explain these principles to you, so you understand the gains in efficiency, comfort and air quality you can expect after implementing their recommendations.

6. What questions do you have for me?

Because a qualified HVAC contractor is the expert, he or she should have questions for you about what you’re experiencing in your home, the history of your system and whether your family has any special concerns, like allergen levels. A great contractor may even follow up with more questions post visit as they’re creating a thorough set of recommendations for you.

Whenever a contractor leaves your home, you should feel more informed. A qualified HVAC contractor, like an Owens Corning^® AirCare^® Professional, can open your eyes to ways to improve your entire home’s comfort, function and efficiency and will welcome these questions and many more.

2023-09-28T15:13:00

(BPT) – Over the last three years, homeowners have developed a renewed interest in home improvement projects. In fact, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University (JCHS), home improvement project spending increased from $328 billion in 2019 to $472 billion in 2022, with an estimated spending of $485 billion for 2023. Fall is the perfect time to focus on home improvement and maintenance projects, so here are six tips to help give your home a refresh before winter hits.

Repair Concrete Cracks: Cracks found in concrete driveways, patios or walkways not only diminish their appearance but can also escalate into significant issues that demand considerable time and money for repairs if left unattended. Fortunately, there’s a silver lining: when you detect cracks in their early stages, minor concrete damage can be conveniently repaired with little effort. A DIY-friendly option is DAP Concrete Crack Filler, a one-of-a-kind, water-activated dry powder that creates a seamless repair easily.

Exterior Painting: Fall offers ideal conditions for exterior painting because the cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels allow paint to adhere better and dry more evenly. This is an excellent opportunity to refresh your home’s appearance and protect it from the elements. If you plan on DIYing your exterior paint, start by inspecting the exterior for any damaged or peeling paint. Scrape off loose paint and sand the surface, then apply a high-quality exterior primer to ensure good paint adhesion. Choose a paint color that complements your home’s style and apply it in even, smooth strokes. Make sure you allow sufficient drying time between coats and protect the paint from rain during the curing process!

Weatherproofing Windows and Doors: As temperatures drop in the fall, it’s important to seal any gaps or cracks around your windows and doors to prevent drafts and conserve energy. Proper weatherproofing can help keep your home comfortable and reduce heating costs. When re-sealing exterior windows, doors, siding and trim, opt for a high-performance sealant designed specifically to withstand the elements without cracking, deteriorating or losing its adhesive properties over time. An excellent choice is DAP’s AMP Window, Door, Siding & Trim, an advanced hybrid sealant engineered for exterior applications. This sealant excels in enduring various weather conditions, offering outstanding durability and flexibility, and is available in both white and crystal-clear options.

Roof Inspection and Repair: Before the winter season arrives, it’s crucial to inspect your roof for any damage, leaks or missing shingles. Addressing roof issues in the fall can prevent more significant problems during the colder, wetter months. You can choose to access the roof yourself or hire a professional for a thorough inspection. If you choose to DIY, look for signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles, damaged flashing or deteriorated sealant. Clear any debris, such as leaves or branches, from the roof surface and gutters and repair any damaged or missing shingles and reseal flashing and vents as needed. Regular roof inspections can extend the life of your roof and prevent costly water damage to your home’s interior.

Add or Repair Texture: The recent revival of textured walls and ceilings is the perfect trend to elevate your space. Whether adding or repairing wall texture in your home, DAP’s line of 2in1 Wall and Ceiling Spray Texture includes Orange Peel, Knockdown and Popcorn textures and are an ideal choice for both pros and DIYers tackling texture. Featuring Aim Tech technology, the aerosol can offers a patent-pending 60-degree adjustable nozzle to easily cover vertical, overhead and hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, the nozzle offers the options of fine, medium or heavy level of texture when sprayed.

Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance: During the fall, leaves, twigs and debris can accumulate in your gutters, which can lead to clogs and water overflow. To prevent potential water damage to your home’s foundation and roof, it’s essential to clean your gutters. While you’re up there, don’t forget to check the downspouts for blockages, and clear them if needed. To make gutter maintenance easier, consider installing gutter guards or screens to reduce the frequency of cleaning and minimize debris buildup.

By completing these six fall home improvement projects, you can enhance the appearance, efficiency and protection of your home as you prepare it for the autumn and winter seasons. For more home improvement tips, visit DAP.com.

2023-09-26T09:01:00

(BPT) – According to recent research from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the long-term outlook for kitchen and bath remodels remains strong. There are 22.4 million homes in their prime remodeling years (20-39 years of age), and that number will grow by an additional 2.2 million within the next five years. With the most popular, highest-ROI projects being bathroom and kitchen remodels, updating these rooms is a great way to increase the value of your home.

Here are five easy and affordable updates you can make to your kitchen or bath.

1. Create a Spa-inspired Bathroom – The Wetwall™ Waterproof Wall Panel System is an affordable and easy way to create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end style without the need for disruptive demolitions. Thanks to grout-free, tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed over virtually any existing material including tile, this upgrade can be completed in as little as 2.5 hours. Available in high-end designs, the panels are perfect for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls, and cladding and can instantly transform your bathroom into a spa-worthy retreat buyers will love.

2. Update Your Countertops – Today’s laminate countertops have experienced impressive evolution, benefiting from substantial technological and engineering progress. Gone are the days when you had to sacrifice style to stay within budget or maintain performance. With Wilsonart^® High Pressure Laminate (HPL), you can now effortlessly mimic the aesthetics of materials like natural stone, wood and marble, all while saving money. HPL also delivers exceptional value in terms of both performance and design with its ability to withstand everyday use and resist impacts, scuffing and scratches. HPL stands out with its unparalleled combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

3. Upgrade Kitchen and Bath Fixtures – Transforming the look and feel of your living space doesn’t always require large renovations. Sometimes, it’s the small adjustments that make a significant difference. Consider the subtle yet effective strategy of updating your kitchen and bathroom fixtures. By simply swapping out your existing faucets for sleek, contemporary options in trending finishes such as aged brass or matte black, you can breathe new life into your spaces. This seemingly minor project can be impactful, all while remaining budget-friendly, proving that even the smallest changes can yield impressive results.

4. Update Your Cabinets – Updating your cabinets can help elevate your living environment to a new level of luxuriousness. The LUJO^® Collection inspires with a sense of reassurance and comfort that can transform any space into a sanctuary. The collection allows you to choose luxurious wood species for cabinets/case goods, cabinet interiors and closet systems and is stain and moisture resistant, allowing for simple cleaning and disinfection. It can also be easily combined with other engineered surfaces from the Wilsonart^® Home collection, allowing you to create a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic for your living spaces.

5. Transform with Paint – If you’re looking for a simple and cost-effective method to revitalize your home’s decor, look no further than a fresh coat of paint. Opting for natural tones, such as soothing light blues, vibrant lush greens, versatile neutral taupes, calming beiges and inviting warm whites, can work wonders in infusing a sense of serenity into your living spaces. This not only rejuvenates the ambiance but also has the added benefit of appealing to the sensibilities of today’s discerning buyers, making it a smart and accessible upgrade for your home.

For more information and ideas to help inspire your next home remodel project, visit www.wilsonart.com.

2023-09-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – Building a deck is a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living space and create a relaxing environment for family gatherings and entertaining guests. However, it’s important to approach the project with a complete understanding of expenses to ensure you stay within your budget. Following are eight essential cost considerations to help you estimate expenses for labor, materials and everything in between before you break ground.

1. Labor: One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you will build the deck yourself or hire professionals. While a DIY approach can save money on labor, it requires adequate knowledge, skills and tools. Carefully consider your capabilities and available time when making this decision. Hiring professionals adds expense but ensures quality workmanship — and may end up saving you money on repairs or rework in the long run. There is a Find a Builder tool on Decks.com that can help you source decking contractors in your area.

2. Deck size and layout: The size and layout of a deck play a major role in determining the overall project cost. Larger decks and those with stairs require more materials, which can increase expenses. Additionally, complex designs or multi-level decks may require additional labor and specialized skills that will impact the budget. Decks.com offers handy calculators for estimating material needs and costs based on the size of the deck you are planning.

3. Foundation and substructure: The foundation and support structure of a deck are crucial for its stability and longevity. Depending on your soil conditions and local building codes, you might need to invest in deep footings or concrete piers. These additional requirements can increase expenses, so it’s a good idea to consult with a professional to ensure compliance and determine the right foundation for your deck.

4. Decking material: Choosing the right materials for your deck is critical both in terms of aesthetics and budget. While premium materials like tropical hardwoods are visually appealing, the cost is often prohibitive. Pressure-treated wood is a more affordable option but requires regular maintenance and refinishing with material expenses that add up over time. Alternatively, composite decking, such as Trex, has higher upfront pricing than pressure-treated lumber but never needs to be sanded, stained or refinished, making it a smart long-term investment. Evaluate the overall cost of ownership to make an informed decision.

5. Railings and balusters: Deck railings provide safety and can enhance a deck’s appearance. However, the choice of railings and balusters can have a significant impact on overall cost and should be considered at the outset of a deck project. Similar to decking materials, wooden railings tend to be the least expensive, but options like aluminum, composite and glass railings are more stylish and far easier and less costly to maintain over time.

6. Finishing touches: Give thought to any accessories or features you wish to include in your deck design, such as built-in seating, a pergola, an outdoor kitchen or lighting, which may be required for stairs in certain jurisdictions. While these enhancements may improve the aesthetics and functionality of your deck, they also add to the overall cost. Determine which accessories are most important and prioritize them based on your budget.

7. Permits and inspections: Many municipalities require permits for deck construction, and inspections may be necessary at various stages of the project. These permits and inspections come with fees that can vary depending on your location. Research the specific requirements beforehand to avoid costly penalties or construction delay.

8. Miscellaneous costs: Lastly, don’t overlook miscellaneous expenses when budgeting for your deck. These can include items such as fasteners, hardware, tools, and safety equipment. Additionally, if you plan to hire professionals, factor in the cost of transportation and waste disposal. Setting aside a small contingency fund to account for unexpected expenses is also wise.

Building a deck is an exciting project, but it’s important to think through all of the associated expenses to ensure your budget is well-managed. By planning ahead, considering all the various factors that go into a deck, and making informed choices, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that doesn’t break the bank. For more tips, ideas, and inspiration, visit Decks.com.

2023-09-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – Industry trends come and go, but one material has withstood the test of time: natural stone. It’s a popular choice for eager designers and consumers. From the rich, Renaissance look of marble to the darker rustic tones of slate flooring, the beauty of stone is varied and versatile enough to fit in with any style of design, including contemporary decor.

Natural stone is inherently beautiful. Because of each stone’s varying composition and minerals, it can create depth, unique movement, natural variation, reflective qualities and colors you can’t get with any other material. Natural stone’s beauty is enhanced through careful cutting that offers a radiant effect. Each and every cut of stone is slightly different, guaranteeing that surfaces crafted from natural stone are one of a kind.

Daltile, one of America’s leading natural stone providers, offers many natural stone options to suit your specific taste and vision. Check out the company’s top five natural stone choices that are solid options for new home constructions and renovations.

1. Marble

Nothing speaks sophistication and luxury like marble. All the way back to the Greeks and Romans through the Renaissance, the most important monuments and sculptures have always been created with marble. Choosing marble tiles for backsplashes, countertops, flooring and more, you’re investing in a timeless material that will add a lavish feel to your abode.

Marble tile is known for its attractive veining. Also, it comes in an array of shades and designs to suit any decor. New color options make marble an appealing option for homeowners looking for modern designs with timeless style.

2. Granite

It’s no surprise that granite remains a sought-after classic. It offers an upscale feel to any space. Granite’s distinctive granular appearance is a more traditional choice for those looking for a natural stone. It’s available in a vast array of colors, including deeper hues with specks of intriguing color for a more striking look.

3. Quartzite

A hot new trend in stone is natural quartzite. Natural quartzite has marble’s luxurious look and feel with greater durability and hardness. When it comes to countertops, natural quartzite continues to be the fastest-growing category in natural stone trends. Opt for natural quartzite if you’re seeking softer looks with more natural movements.

4. Limestone

Another contemporary natural stone is limestone. It lends itself well to many designs and comes in a wide spectrum of gray, white, beige and other natural tones. Limestone’s distinctive flecks and granular patterns can add an instant touch of elegance to any room. For example, adding a limestone floor lets you easily transform a simple bathroom into a luxurious, contemporary at-home spa.

5. Slate

As one of the strongest natural stones, slate is a stellar choice for almost any application. Whether you use it for flooring, countertops or backsplashes, this versatile stone can elevate interior and exterior designs and styles. Because of its color and variation, slate tile is the perfect neutral backdrop that offers rich contrast and brightness.

Bring your vision to life with natural stone

Whether you’re considering marble, granite, quartzite, limestone or slate, the various color options allow you to find the perfect stone to bring your design vision to life. To find options that fit your personal aesthetic and design needs, visit Daltile.

2023-09-23T05:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re planning to sell your house in the near future or you just want to improve the look of your home’s exterior, the first thing you may think of to improve its curb appeal is landscaping. However, a driveway that’s in poor condition can seriously detract from your home’s appearance, no matter how tidy your grass and shrubs may be.

To make a good impression on neighbors, guests and potential homebuyers alike, make sure that one of the first things they notice — your driveway — is in great shape. A driveway that’s clean and well-kept goes a long way toward that positive first impression you want to convey, so now is a good time to protect your investment and improve your home’s value by addressing how your driveway looks.

Before the harsh winter weather makes some outdoor projects impossible, take time this fall to protect and seal your concrete driveway so that it not only looks great, but is also safer for cars and pedestrians alike.

To seal your driveway effectively, you’ll need to do some prep work first. Here are the steps you should take to get your driveway in shape, so it will withstand the winter better and still look good when springtime rolls around again.

1. Clean before you seal. For sealer to bond well, your driveway’s concrete slab should be as clean as possible. Dirt, grime and oil are “bond breakers” that will prevent sealer from adhering properly. To clean your driveway thoroughly, use a 1500 PSI pressure washer first. You can rent pressure washers for a reasonable cost at most home improvement retailers and some rental companies.

2. Check for cracks. Examine your driveways for cracks, flaking or any other surface damage that needs to be repaired. Once the surface is fully dried, you can use Quikrete^® Concrete Repair or Quikrete Gray Concrete Crack Seal to quickly and easily patch up your driveway. Watch this video to see how to correctly use these products to repair cracks in your driveway.

3. Use a stain remover. If you spot any stains that are caused by motor oil, rust or efflorescence (crystalline salt deposits) on the concrete, it’s recommended to remove as many as possible before you apply the sealer, using Quikrete Oil Stain Remover and/or Quikrete Efflorescence and Rust Remover. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the driveway after using one or both of these products.

4. Apply driveway sealer. Do not apply sealer until your driveway is completely dry. Then get ready to apply ready-to-use Quikrete Acrylic Concrete Cure and Seal to seal and help protect your concrete driveway from acids, grease, oils, food stains, salt and more.

Make sure to:

• Check the forecast. Make sure the temperature will be above freezing for 24 hours before applying, and it should be 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above when applying the sealer. If it’s too cold, the product will be slow to set or could even freeze, rendering it ineffective. Do not apply if rain, heavy dew or temperatures below 50 degrees F are expected within 24 hours of applying sealer.
• Read and follow all instructions, precautions and safety guidelines on product packaging. Note: You should wear impervious gloves and prevent skin contact with the product. Remove any of the product that may get on your skin or clothes promptly, while wet, with soap and water. Also clean your application tools with water immediately after use.
• Gather the tools you need such as gloves, a garden sprayer and brush.
• Apply evenly for best results. For sealing finished concrete surfaces, apply using a broom, brush, roller or garden sprayer to dry concrete or masonry.

To learn more about home improvement projects and to find the products you need, visit Quikrete.com.

2023-09-20T10:15:00

(BPT) – Fall is the perfect time to take on some home renovations, before the holidays hit and winter sets in. With just a few changes, you can make your home into a more functional space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere in which you and others will enjoy spending time for many seasons to come.

Let these four home renovation ideas inspire you to spruce up your space this autumn.

1. Make over the mudroom

If you have a mudroom, you know how helpful this space can be during the changing season. Over the course of fall and winter, a mudroom can help keep your house clean and organized by containing the mess of wet coats and dirty boots.

Upgrade your mudroom to make it more functional and easier to maintain. For example, you can incorporate storage solutions to store and organize your boots, add a bench to sit on while you take your shoes off and install hooks to hang your coats.

2. Upgrade your flooring

One way to bring a whole new look to your home is by bringing in new flooring, which can serve as the foundation for all interior styles. And, while there are so many great flooring options to select from, many homeowners today are opting to seek out floors that not only look great but also can stand up to busy households and traffic.

A great option that brings fantastic, real-wood looks coupled with kid-and-pet-proof performance is LL Flooring’s new ReNature by CoreLuxe. This floor is waterproof and resistant to dents, scratches, scuffs, and stains — plus it’s made from 25% recycled materials, another perk for homeowners who prioritize aesthetics, functionality and responsible manufacturing. What’s more, with renovation season upon us, DIY’ers will love this easy-to-install flooring.

“ReNature by CoreLuxe is a perfect flooring solution that unites progressive manufacturing with design ingenuity, resulting in a product that’s both resilient and stylish,” said Jen Meska, Head of Merchandising at LL Flooring. “This flooring is manufactured with a commitment to material reuse, while providing a tough, resilient and waterproof solution for pros and homeowners.”

The company also offers myriad stylish, quality options in solid hardwood and Duravana hybrid resilient flooring, so you can choose the perfect flooring for your fall home renovation project.

3. Give your fireplace a facelift

As the weather cools down, it’s time to light your fireplace. But before you do, give your fireplace a makeover so you can transform your living room into a relaxing and welcoming space for your friends and family.

Some easy ways to give your fireplace a facelift include updating or replacing the mantel or replacing the current surround with new stone or tile. If you’re feeling ambitious, add a built-in seating area nearby. This seating area makes it easier to enjoy the warmth and glow of the fireplace and acts as a focal point for fall gatherings.

4. Extend your entertaining space outdoors

Don’t limit your entertaining to the indoors. With a few additions, you can easily extend your living or dining room into your outdoor space.

Add a firepit or fire table to your deck or patio so you can have cozy conversations around the fire underneath the stars. Also, consider investing in comfortable outdoor furniture so you can dine outdoors or enjoy drinks surrounded by the fall foliage. These additions make it easy to maximize your time outdoors.

This fall, give your home a little time, love and care. Using these four tips, you’ll be well on your way to turning your home into a space you’ll love to spend time in this season and beyond.

2023-09-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Today’s homeowners want to use materials in their homes that fit their busy lifestyles. Porcelain countertops and extra-large slabs meet this need perfectly as they are beautiful, durable, very low-maintenance and affordable. Porcelain slabs can be used on many surfaces, including countertops, floors, walls, fireplaces, vanities, backsplashes, shower walls, tub surrounds and even exterior flooring and cladding. They bring the stunning on-trend colors and patterns of marble, slate and other natural stones, as well as modern concrete looks, to a space while still standing up to real-life activity.

Daltile, America’s leading porcelain tile and countertop provider, knows how porcelain slabs can transform a home from fine to fab. Check out its eight reasons you should consider using porcelain slabs in your next home design venture.

1. Luxury at an attainable price

Porcelain slabs are a great solution for designs that require a high-end look on a budget. They easily bring the scale and style of natural stone slabs to projects where real stone, like marble, might be cost- or installation-prohibitive. Thanks to modern technology, the industry’s top manufacturers can create realistic designs that make it hard to tell the difference between porcelain slabs and the natural materials they emulate.

2 Stops bacteria in its tracks

In today’s “germ-aware” world, you’ll want a surface that is durable and easily cleanable. Porcelain slabs are up to the task. Not only are they easy to clean, but they’re also resistant to the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. Regular, basic cleaning with water and mild soap is all you need. Also, if you use professional cleaning services, you can rest at ease knowing your porcelain will not be damaged.

3. Easy to install

A porcelain countertop can be installed right over your existing countertop. No demolition needed!

4. Powerful design impact

One of the hottest trends in interior design is using seamless, continuous design to create style and luxury. This design trend is easy to achieve with extra-large porcelain slabs. They add powerful design impact whether you use it for a single installation, a floor-to-wall-to-countertop continuum or even book-matched for a stunning feature wall.

5. Perfect for kitchen islands

A kitchen island is a useful and eye-catching feature in any kitchen. Porcelain slabs create beautiful kitchen islands with minimal or no seams. A porcelain slab island can also withstand the wear and tear of busy family life and frequent entertaining. For example, Daltile’s Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces line is heat resistant, so you can set hot pans and pots on its surface. It’s also water- and stain-resistant, so your porcelain kitchen island will look good for years to come.

6. Ideal for a master bathroom oasis

Master bathrooms act as an oasis in a chaotic, kid-friendly home or as an escape from today’s stressful, fast-paced world. That’s why many new home constructions and renovations focus on turning master bedrooms into personal retreats. Opt for porcelain slabs to create a seamless design with wrap-around luxury in your bedroom.

7. Solid base for super shower

The “Super Shower” has also become a must for many homeowners. This luxurious shower features various amenities like rain showers, multiple showerheads and digital water temperature controls. Here again, porcelain slabs offer a seamless design that flows across several surfaces (floors to walls to countertops), creating luxury and elegance.

8. Fitting for exterior spaces

Porcelain slabs aren’t limited to interior designs. They’re also an excellent material for outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining, including outdoor bars, kitchens and beautiful sitting areas. With porcelain, you can enjoy the same high level of sophisticated indoor design style but in the great outdoors.

Are you ready to update your home with quality porcelain tile? Visit Daltile to find countertops and a variety of porcelain slabs to turn your home into your dream space.

2023-09-16T05:01:00

(BPT) – If you like exposed brick, neutral colors, metal accents, glass and concrete, you’re probably a big fan of modern industrial design. By starting with a few details, it’s easier than you think to integrate this on-trend aesthetic into your home décor — without breaking the bank.

Try these ideas for incorporating industrial elements into your home.

Have a light bulb moment

Whether you use Edison-style light bulbs as string lights or swap out some of your regular bulbs, the exposed filaments of these bulbs instantly transport you to the early industrial age. Today’s Edison-style LED bulbs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit a wide range of fixtures.

Enter the neutral zone

A coat of paint easily transforms any room’s appearance. For the industrial aesthetic, choose a monochromatic look using white, black, gray or brown, then add a few accents like light fixtures, art or vases that use metal, brick, glass or wood.

Put the pedal to the metal

Switching out drawer and cabinet hardware with mixed metals is another quick and easy way to emphasize the industrial feel. Opt for matte black and brushed metals to create visual interest.

Set it in concrete

Creating a concrete countertop is a simple project to undertake — and easy on the wallet. Concrete countertops are also not just for kitchens anymore. You can create a concrete countertop for a bathroom, living room, outdoor kitchen, entryway — if you can imagine it, you can make it.

Concrete is very versatile, so you can create a one-of-a-kind statement piece as a simple weekend project. All you’ll need is Quikrete^® Concrete Countertop Mix and a base. You could build your own base like this iron bar table, or repurpose something you already own or find at a thrift store. Because concrete is endlessly customizable, Quikrete Concrete Countertop Mix can transform an entry table, patio island or coffee table into a signature masterpiece. Whatever you build will be extremely durable and practical — while also enhancing your modern industrial look.

Here are basic instructions for creating a concrete countertop for your home:

Safety first: Before beginning any concrete project, make sure you have proper safety gear like eye protection and waterproof gloves.

1. Determine the dimensions of the countertop. If it will serve as a bar, make sure it extends at least 6 inches beyond the base to allow room for stools.

2. Build the countertop forms. Design and construct the forms in multiple sections to allow for the weight of the concrete. For example, if you’re creating a concrete countertop for an entry table, build forms from 3/4″ melamine-coated particle board by screwing four 1.5″ strips to a base sheet according to the countertop dimensions. Another advantage of smaller sections is that if they’re less than 4′ rebar is not required.

3. Apply a bead of silicone caulk in the seams of the forms. Then smooth with a caulk tool or your fingertip to give the countertop a smooth edge.

4. Mix the Quikrete Concrete Countertop Mix by following the directions on the bag. Then pour into the forms in two 1″ layers. If necessary, place metal rebar or wire mesh between the two layers for additional strength.

5. Overfill the forms slightly before pulling a 2×4 in a sawing motion over the surface several times in each direction. This process, known as screeding, will level what will be the underside of the countertop.

6. Consolidate the mix and remove air voids by tapping the forms with a rubber mallet or vibrating with an orbital sander without the pad.

7. Remove the forms after 18 hours. Once each countertop section is removed from the forms, smooth the edges with fine sandpaper.
Note: Although you have to wait a few days before the countertop fully forms with many concrete mixes, Quikrete’s Concrete Countertop Mix doesn’t have to sit for more than a day.

8. With the help of another person, place the newly formed countertop pieces on top of the base. If your countertop project requires any hardware or appliance installation, make sure you follow the manufacturer instructions.

9. Seal your concrete countertops with Quikrete Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal to protect them from stain-causing contaminants like dirt, oil and grease.

Pro tip: To customize your concrete countertop, add liquid cement colors during the mixing process and stain the surface. You can also fill air holes with Polyblend Non-Sanded Grout from Custom Building Products.

Ready to get started? Watch this how-to video on Quickrete.com.

Using these tips, you can become your own interior designer, creating a modern industrial look that’s visually appealing, minimalistic and flexible for just about any space in your home.

2023-09-12T11:01:01

(BPT) – Fall is just around the corner and many homeowners are starting to compile their home maintenance checklists. With cooler temps on the horizon, it’s a good time for seasonal projects like inspecting your roof for summer storm damage, sealing windows and doors, or moving outdoor furniture to storage. Culligan International, a world leader in the treatment of water, says it’s also the perfect time to ensure that your water is cleaner and safer for both you and your home.

Water contamination can happen through a local municipality, an underground well or a homeowner’s own pipes. It’s important to have your water tested by a trusted water expert who can determine the necessary steps to eliminate any harmful impurities that may be present.

Here are five telltale signs that you should have your water tested:

1. Changes in Taste, Smell or Appearance.

A change in the taste, smell or clarity of your water could indicate that contaminants are present. A water test will be able to detect harmful contaminants that might be in your water and help determine the proper treatment solution. While there are many treatment options, Culligan’s Aquasential^® Smart Reverse Osmosis (RO) Drinking Water System is generally regarded as the World’s Most Efficient RO Drinking Water System.* With up to seven stages of filtration and 14 different filter options, it is certified to reduce 59 contaminants including lead, arsenic, pharmaceuticals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and PFAS. Homeowners can have peace of mind with an unlimited supply of great-tasting, cleaner, safer water.

2. Mineral Build-up.

If you notice mineral deposits, stains or a white film on bathroom fixtures, dishes and sinks, this may be because you have hard water in your home. Hard water is high in mineral content like calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates and sulfates. These minerals can also clog showerheads and appliances, make soap and detergent less effective and leave clothing looking dingy and wear more easily. Water softener systems remove these minerals. Culligan’s Aquasential^® Smart High Efficiency (HE) Water Softener offers high-efficiency water softening for your home and is regarded as the world’s most efficient water softener**. It can optimize salt, water and electricity, with smart features that let you track water usage and set goals and receive service notifications like low salt alerts. With soft water, your appliances, dishes and clothing can remain in good health and even last longer.

3. Dry Hair and Skin.

You may also have hard water in your home if you notice changes in your skin and hair. Showering or bathing in hard water can leave a film of soap on your skin. This can prevent the removal of dirt and bacteria and irritate the skin. Washing your hair in hard water can cause build-up that makes it tangle more easily, look dull and feel rough. Softening your water will help keep hair and skin silky smooth.

4. Frequent Plumbing Repairs.

Since your home’s pipes are constantly in contact with your water, water that contains harmful impurities can lead to damage in your home’s plumbing system. Frequent clogging and leaks are signs that you may have problem water that needs treatment. In addition to a plumber, you’ll want to call a water expert to test your water and determine the appropriate treatment solution.

5. Expensive Water Bill.

If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, this could point to untreated water. Since your plumbing system needs to work harder when there are mineral build-ups in your pipes and home appliances, the impact can often be felt on your pocketbook.

For more information about water treatment solutions or to schedule a free in-home water test, visit www.culligan.com.