Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

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.

2023-10-20T08:41:00

(BPT) – When it comes to giving your home a fresh, new look, few projects are as transformative as a flooring installation. Whether you’re tired of that old carpet or seeking to enhance your living spaces, the journey to a new floor can be both exciting and daunting. To ensure your floor remodeling project meets your expectations, follow these five essential steps:

1. Select the Best Flooring Type

What’s the best flooring? The perfect flooring type suits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. With a wide array of flooring materials available, the decision can be overwhelming. From the warmth of hardwood to the practicality of laminate, each type has its unique advantages and drawbacks.

In a recent survey by Modernize Home Services, most homeowners — 16% of total respondents — planning a flooring remodel project in the next 12 months intend to choose laminate. It’s a top choice for many due to laminate floor durability and affordability. Hardwood and tile floors were tied closely behind with 15% each.

To make an informed choice, explore Modernize’s comprehensive guide to flooring types. This resource, available at no cost, offers a clear summary of various flooring types and includes a helpful quiz to assist homeowners in making the perfect selection.

2. Research the Cost of Flooring Installation

One of the most crucial aspects of planning a flooring project is understanding the cost involved. The expenses can vary based on factors like your location and the specific flooring materials you choose. So, it’s essential to research local flooring installation costs to set a realistic budget for your project.

To gain a better understanding of the cost of flooring installation, read Modernize’s guide to flooring costs.

3. Identify Skilled Contractors for Flooring

Selecting the right contractor for your flooring project is as vital as choosing the flooring material. A skilled and experienced professional can make a big difference in the quality of the installation. Look for contractors who specialize in flooring projects and have a solid track record of successful installations.

Ask family and friends for recommendations and use an online contractor matching service, such as Modernize.com, to connect with experienced professionals in your area. Review floor remodeling professionals’ business profiles, such as this overview of Empire Today, to understand a flooring contractor’s experience and expertise before requesting a quote for your project.

4. Order Flooring Materials

Once you’ve chosen the best flooring type and identified a reliable contractor, it’s time to order the necessary materials. Depending on the flooring type you’ve selected, the required materials can vary. Work closely with your floor remodeling contractor to ensure all materials are ordered before your planned installation so that your project stays on schedule and is completed in a timely manner.

5. Prepare the Space for Installation

As you prepare for a new flooring installation, get your space ready. This involves clearing the area of any obstructions that might hinder the process.

While contractors typically handle moving large furniture, it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to pick up toys, shoes and small items from the floors. Additionally, items like standing lamps, decor and other smaller items should be moved to allow for a seamless installation process.

Flooring Renovation Return on Investment (ROI)

All flooring projects can potentially increase your home’s value, particularly when installing hardwood, tile or good-quality carpet. Modernize explains how to approach calculating the return on your flooring project and advises homeowners to maximize flooring renovation ROI by upgrading strategically, choosing materials that best balance aesthetics and value, and selecting neutral flooring colors that complement any decor style.

Enhancing the beauty and value of your home has never been more accessible. Learn more about how new floors can be a valuable investment on Modernize.com: Calculating the Return on your Flooring Project.

2023-10-17T19:01:00

(BPT) – From waking up and setting the right tone for the day ahead, to winding down with a nighttime routine, a bath space has the potential to evoke feelings of deep relaxation. It’s a space that can be designed to generate a sense of tranquility and enhance well-being for the mind, body and soul. Starting and ending the day with self-care as a priority is the ultimate form of wellness.

Wellness for the senses

A great way to promote wellness is by engaging the senses in an immersive, vitalizing experience. Imagine a shower that soothes both the body and the mind, all while fostering a calming space. With the Brizo^® Mystix™ Steam System, one can choose the lavish simplicity of the Elemental Experience or the holistic ambiance of the Transcendent Experience. Both are finely curated shower experiences that bring a sense of serenity to the bath. The Elemental Experience transforms the space into a restorative spa with its innovative Mystix™ Steam Generator. The Transcendent Experience combines all the benefits of the Elemental Experience with enhanced technology, plus a full suite of spa options: aromatherapy, chromatherapy and audiotherapy. These features rejuvenate the senses and elevate the shower to an entirely new level of indulgence, transforming the daily practice of showering into a self-care experience that one truly looks forward to as part of the day.

Personalizing the shower experience

Luxury is not one-size-fits-all; it’s found in the distinctive details. A personalized selection of products and features can elevate a shower from simple to grand. Whether selecting an essential oil to be dispersed with the steam, choosing a light color that soothes the mind, listening to a personal playlist through a connected app during a steam shower session — or all three — one can tailor the experience to fit the desires of the user. The variety of options and ability to customize these details ensures the shower fulfills these distinct wellness needs. The Mystix™ Steam System Transcendent Experience allows users to choose from seven different mood-enhancing lights, with each color creating a unique ambiance, and select from an array of five finely curated fragrances to transport the senses through the benefits of essential oils. Both inspiring and calming, these sensory elements work together to rejuvenate the mind and the body, undoing the stresses of the day. The resulting sense of harmony is one only a well-crafted steam shower can bring.

2023-10-17T11:01:00

(BPT) – Have you ever wished you could do more to harness the solar energy captured by your home’s solar panels? Have you ever wished your generator was quieter and didn’t smell so bad? Have you ever grappled with EV range anxiety or wanted additional backup power in your RV? If so, then this news is for you. Cast off the anxieties and annoyances! A better way is here.

Anker’s SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station is the flexible, cost-effective and easy-to-install power system breakthrough in whole home (and EV) backup power the world has been waiting for. Tens of thousands of solar enthusiasts have already signed up to be the first in line for this power station. And with these three game-changing innovations in the mix, odds are the excitement is just going to keep on climbing.

1. Powerful output + AC coupling

This is the first power station to feature AC coupling, and it offers 6000W of AC power output to power most home appliances. It also provides 120V/240V dual voltage output, letting you run both standard and high-energy devices simultaneously.

Worried that 6000W might not cut it? Perhaps you’ve got a large home to power, or some seriously demanding equipment to run? No worries. This power station can be doubled up for a staggering total output of 12000W.

2. Extended backup power

In the past, limited battery storage has left a lot of otherwise interested folks wary of making the switch to solar. Now, you can put those fears to bed. A massive 3.84kWh internal battery provides ample backup power at the drop of a hat. Plus, by combining two power stations and up to 12 additional batteries, the average homeowner can get up to a week of backup power. That’s enough to see you through the longest recorded blizzard in U.S. history plus three days to spare!

3. Take it where you need it

However, not all power needs are stationary. And when you have big electricity demands on the go, you want a power station that can go with you. With a convenient suitcase design featuring a stowable handle and a set of large, sturdy wheels, the F3800 is always up for the trip.

EV owners, take note. Fear of losing power has prevented drivers from maximizing their road trips for far too long. Set yourself free with a power station that’s transportable, high-powered and easy to use. Just directly connect your vehicle’s charging cable — no additional grounding accessories required!

For RV owners out there, the F3800 can run all your appliances in the RV and power them for several days to ensure the enjoyment of your whole trip thanks to its built-in RV port.

Of course, if you’re looking for an even more portable, lightweight and super-fast power station, there’s no need to wait for the Anker F3800 to drop. Anker SOLIX C1000 portable power station was designed for small places, and is the perfect power accessory for winter emergency use or just to ensure your devices never run out of power during your festive celebrations. It is lightweight and has a fast-charging technology, compact design, plenty of ports to connect up to 11 devices at the same time, high voltage output (120 volts) and even smart app control to set power schedules.

Get an advantage with advanced solar solutions

The solar age is finally here, and those who take advantage of it have a lot to gain. No more lining up for gas to refill your generator after severe weather. No more EV range anxiety or complicated route planning. And of course, you can celebrate that big reduction in your carbon footprint thanks to a clean solar energy loop.

If that sounds like a good deal to you, head over to Anker.com/anker-solix to pre-order the F3800 today on Kickstarter.

2023-10-16T14:01:00

(BPT) – As property prices and mortgage rates rise, sprucing up your existing home instead of hunting for a new one may be more appealing.

Before you start making plans and lining up local contractors, think about: What’s the return on investment? Bathroom and kitchen remodels may turn heads if you’re looking to sell, but don’t underestimate the value of fixing up your home’s essential systems.

Whether you’re putting up a “For Sale” sign, doing some essential repairs, or just simply upgrading, The Home Depot’s Home Services can help you determine what really matters when it comes to boosting your home’s value.

2023-10-16T02:01:00

2023-10-14T05:01:00

(BPT) – As the temperatures cool but it’s still pleasant outside, now is the perfect time to improve your backyard. Fortunately, there are many affordable projects that can make your outdoor area more attractive and enjoyable this autumn — and for many seasons to come.

Here are five simple upgrades you can make to enhance your outdoor space.

1. Create a warm focal point

Fall is a delightful time to gather around a fire to chat, toast marshmallows and enjoy the season. You can find many affordable options to add a simple fire pit, such as simply purchasing a low-cost free-standing fire pit.

You could also build your own fire pit, using stones or cinder blocks. An online search will lead you to dozens of ideas. Be sure to follow safety instructions such as keeping your fire pit at least 10-25 feet from your home or other structure and away from overhanging trees, and creating a non-flammable base.

Note: Check with your local municipality for regulations around fire pits, as many areas require permits.

2. Light it up

Today’s choices for outdoor lighting are numerous, from solar lights to LED lights, and include string lights, path lights or downlighting installed on your home’s exterior. Improving your outdoor lighting not only makes your space more attractive and extends outdoor entertaining into the evening hours, but also provides additional safety and security for your home.

3. Have it made in the shade

Building a simple pergola is one great way to add a little shade, define an area of your outdoor space and create visual interest. You can find many free building templates for pergolas in a variety of sizes and styles on the internet. Adding climbing plants or flowering vines to your pergola makes it even better — improving shade and making the space feel like a natural sanctuary.

4. Embrace your favorite tree

Another fun DIY project is to create a wooden bench that goes around a favorite tree in your yard. This creates a cozy spot for reading or hanging out that kids especially will enjoy. Most templates online are hexagonal (6-sided) in shape and not difficult to construct. You can then make or buy cushions or pillows so it’s extra comfy.

5. Lead them down the garden path

Although paths made from materials like brick and stone are attractive and durable, they can also be expensive and challenging to install. An easy and affordable alternative is building a path yourself, using plastic forms and pre­mixed packaged concrete like Quikrete^® Crack Resistant Concrete. You can also add Quikrete Liquid Cement Color to easily customize the color and style of your path so it’s exactly how you want it.

Using Quikrete Walkmaker forms, select the style of path you want, including natural-looking Country Stone Pattern, Running Bond Brick, European Brick Block or Basket Weave Brick pattern. The forms are 2 feet by 2 feet and require one 80­-pound bag of concrete, so you can work on your path at your own pace, one form at a time. You can customize your path further by incorporating liquid colors, stains and/or embedding gravel or other small aggregates into the concrete.

Steps for laying a concrete path:

• Remove sod and soil to the desired width, shape and length of your path, keeping the ground as flat and level as possible.
  Thoroughly mix concrete and water in a wheelbarrow with a garden hoe or shovel, or in concrete mixer, according to the directions on the bag.
• Lay the form at the beginning of your path and fill with the concrete mix, pressing the concrete firmly into corners with your trowel.
• Promptly remove the form and smooth the edges of the path with your trowel before the concrete mix hardens. For a nonslip finish, brush the surface with a stiff broom.
• Continue by rotating the form a quarter turn and placing it against a completed section of path. Then fill with concrete mix, remove the form and smooth the surface. Repeat this process until your path is complete.
• To create a curved walkway, after removing the form from a freshly poured section of path, reposition the form in the direction of the curve and press down to slice off the corner. Use a trowel to consolidate and smooth cut-off edges.

Note: When working with cement products, always wear eye protection and gloves.

For more tips on laying a concrete path, including step-by-step how-to videos for this and other home projects, visit Quikrete.com or their Facebook page.

Using some of these tips this fall, you can transform your outdoor space into an even more attractive oasis for entertainment, enjoyment and relaxation.