Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-10-04T09:15:00

(BPT) – As temperatures turn cooler, it might seem premature to think about springtime outdoor projects, but when it comes to planning a spring deck build, now is actually the perfect time to start. The fall and winter months provide an ideal window of opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful and stress-free spring deck construction project. Here are some key steps and considerations to ensure your new deck will be ready to enjoy when the flowers start to bloom.

1. Define your vision

Every successful deck project begins with a clear vision. Spend some time this fall and winter envisioning your ideal deck. Consider its purpose — will it be a space for outdoor dining, relaxation or entertainment? Think about the deck’s size, shape and design elements. Gather inspiration from home improvement magazines, social media platforms and websites like Decks.com to help refine your vision. Then, utilize online tools, like those offered by the outdoor living experts at Trex, to bring your vision to life. Digital tools, such as their AR Visualizer and Deck Designer, can help to further define details. You can also find a wide array of ready-made deck plans online that offer ideas and inspiration.

2. Lock in labor

One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you plan to build the deck yourself or hire a professional. If you have the skills to DIY, take advantage of online resources, like Trex Academy, for expert tips and step-by-step instructions to help get the job done. If you plan to work with a contractor, fall is an excellent time to start the vetting process. Quality deck builders are often in high demand and tend to book out months in advance. Securing a contractor in fall ensures you’ll have a skilled professional ready to begin work when the weather allows in the spring.

3. Plan for permits

Deck construction often requires permits, depending on your local building codes and neighborhood associations, if applicable. Take advantage of the fall and winter months to research local building codes and obtain any necessary permits and approvals. This process can be time-consuming, so getting a head start will ensure that you don’t face any unexpected delays come spring.

4. Set your budget

Setting a budget early gives you time to make any necessary adjustments and ensures you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected costs once installation begins. Be realistic and consider all potential expenses, including labor, permits, substructure materials, decking, railing and any additional features or amenities you might want to include, such as lighting, an outdoor sound system or an under-deck drainage system. Online resources like the Trex Cost Calculator can help to ensure your vision is financially feasible. Simply answer a few questions about your space, like the material you plan to use and the deck dimensions, to determine an estimated price range for your project.

5. Research materials

The choice of materials for your deck is crucial as it directly impacts both the aesthetics and longevity of your outdoor space. Fall is an ideal time to research the range of available options. Consider factors like durability, maintenance requirements and sustainability when making your decision. Trex composite decking, for instance, is made from 95% recycled and reclaimed materials and never needs to be sealed or refinished like wood. The brand’s latest innovation, Trex Transcend Lineage, even features heat-mitigating technology that keeps the boards cooler under the sun than other composite offerings. Many above-ground decks require railing, so be sure to take that into account as well. Railing options are myriad and the costs vary widely, so planning ahead ensures you have time to make the choices that are right for your project and your budget.

Planning ahead for a spring deck build during the fall and winter months is a wise decision that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your deck construction project when the warmer weather arrives. With careful planning and attention to detail, your dream deck will soon become a reality, providing you with a beautiful and functional outdoor space to enjoy for years to come. For more outdoor living inspiration, visit Trex.com.

2023-10-04T09:03:00

(BPT) – The freezing temperatures, ice and snow that come with the winter season will be here before you know it. Instead of waiting until a house emergency arises during the cold winter, take time in the fall to start winterization projects.

For most homeowners, winter means colder weather and rising energy bills, too. To help stick to your budget while keeping your home warm and safe this winter, Oncourse Home Solutions developed this checklist to help you get your home winter-ready before the first snowfall.

1. Seal those drafts. Drafty doors and windows allow heat to escape — making your heating bill soar. Check windows, attic, walls and crawlspaces for noticeable drafts. Then add weather stripping, insulation or caulking to problematic areas to prevent the loss of heated air.

2. Keep appliances running like a dream. Winter can put your appliances to the test, especially if they’re not properly maintained. Regularly cleaning out dust and debris from large appliances, including your refrigerator, will ensure optimal performance so you don’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns. Oncourse Home Solutions suggests homeowners have a yearly furnace ‘tune up’ maintenance appointment with a professional to ensure potential problems can be caught early and taken care of before they result in an untimely (and expensive) breakdown.

• Pro Tip: Check with your provider, as they may offer plans designed to take care of your appliances. This can reduce your financial burden to cover repair emergencies.

3. Switch to a smart thermostat. A programmable smart Wi-Fi thermostat allows you to set different temps for different times of day, right from your phone. By lowering the temp when you’re out of the house or asleep, you can save a significant amount of energy and money.

4. Embrace natural heat. Blinds, shutters and curtains don’t just keep light out; they can help keep heat in, too. Open window treatments during the day, allowing the sun to heat your home naturally. When the sun goes down, close curtains and blinds to trap warmth inside.

5. Check ceiling fan direction. Did you know your ceiling fan can provide both cool and warm air? During the winter, set your ceiling fan blades to spin clockwise. This forces the fan to push warm air back down into your living space. That can help keep your thermostat at a reasonable setting, giving your HVAC system a much-needed break.

6. Let there be LED. Swap old incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. Not only are they longer-lasting, but they also use significantly less energy. You’ll save money while illuminating your home with brighter, more sustainable light.

7. Clear around vents. If certain rooms feel cooler than others, ensure you don’t have blocked vents. Rugs, curtains and furniture can block airflow from any vent. When this happens, warm air from your heating system can’t reach your family.

8. Check your home’s exterior. Even though you may not spend as much time outdoors during winter, it’s a great time to check for damage to your home’s exterior. Look at your roof, gutters and downspouts to ensure things are in good shape. If you notice missing or damaged shingles, or any gutters or downspouts pulling away from your home, those are issues that need attention immediately. Putting off maintenance and repairs only makes it worse — and hurts your wallet.

9. Be prepared. Plan for the unexpected by keeping an emergency kit stocked with non-perishable food, blankets, flashlights, batteries, drinking water, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit. Placing shovels, salt and snow blowers in an easily accessible location can also help you quickly clear snow and ice from heavily trafficked areas like walkways and driveways.

10. Protect your pipes. Freezing pipes can cause major headaches (and leaks!) during winter. To protect homeowners from unexpected costs, home protection providers like Oncourse Home Solutions have homeowners’ backs when it comes to safeguarding their home. Their protection plans offer coverage for pipes and more, so you can rest easy knowing that unexpected damage may be taken care of without breaking the bank.

Remember, these tips are just the start of your winterizing journey. Each home is unique, so always consider partnering with home protection and service providers like Oncourse Home Solutions, formerly operated as Pivotal Home Solutions and American Home Solutions, a leading home protection provider focused on protecting homeowners from unexpected costs, and providing flexible services for home repairs, maintenance and improvement.

With the amount of stress and tasks that naturally come with homeownership, especially during the winter months when bills tend to rise, having a thoughtful partner that provides peace of mind is critical. With a little bit of effort and some smart choices, you can face winter confidently, knowing help is just a call away. Visit OncourseHome.com to learn more.

2023-10-02T11:01:00

(BPT) – For recent high school grads, anyone transitioning from military service or those seeking a new career path, exploring job possibilities in the skilled trades can be eye-opening. The skilled trades present a variety of career pathways in the construction and home improvement industries including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, HVAC, roofing, painting and much more. During Careers in Construction Month, it’s the perfect time to discover job options that may be available to you with the right training.

The demand for skilled tradespeople in the U.S. remains strong, with over 400,000 current skilled labor job openings, according to the Home Builders Institute — and a need for over 61,000 hires in construction per month to keep up with job growth and to replace exiting workers. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts over 3.9 million jobs becoming available for home improvement–related trades over the next decade alone.

With thousands of skilled jobs ready for the taking, making the best career choice becomes easy when you have multiple paths to explore — and will continue to do so for many years to come. If you already work in a skilled trade, this also means it’s a great time to increase your skills and continue growing your career.

One resource to get you started is The Home Depot’s Path to Pro program. PathtoPro.com provides skilled trades career information and free educational content — in English and Spanish — to help you explore jobs in the skilled trades, as well as training and opportunities to make connections with employers.

One man’s journey to a fulfilling career

Residential contractor Brandon Williams always knew he wanted to get into the trades. “Growing up, I loved building things,” Williams said, which led him to learn about building as a hobby. “I knew some skills for hobby work, but for an actual job, I wasn’t fully trained, and Path to Pro put me in a position where I could get trained.”

To prepare for his first job in the trades, Brandon registered for the Path to Pro Skills Program, which now offers free introductory trades training in both English and Spanish..

Hands-on experience made all the difference. “I’d been looking for something in this profession for months before I learned about Path to Pro, but most employers wanted someone with experience,” Williams recalled, “and Path to Pro really helped with that.”

After he joined the Path to Pro Network, a potential employer contacted him about a job, and his career began. “Every day, there’s something new, and this is the part I love about my job,” added Williams.

How to find resources to benefit your career path

If you’re unsure how to get started, there are many free resources available for jobseekers and career changers. For example, The Home Depot’s Path to Pro program offers three options to support your progress in your trades career journey.

1. Visit PathtoPro.com: This website includes a free resource library, in English and Spanish, containing educational guides and video content, training opportunities and helpful information on different career paths to help you better understand your career potential in the skilled trades. The website also helps you navigate the registration process for the Path to Pro Skills Program and Path to Pro Network.

2. Register for the Path to Pro Skills Program: The program offers free introductory trades training, now available in both English and Spanish, for anyone interested in pursuing or growing their career in skilled trades. You can access on-demand content that provides the necessary training to secure entry-level positions in the highest demand trades, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, drywall and painting. You can work through the program at your own pace, at times that best fit your schedule. You’ll receive assistance to help you discover the best job for you, improve your resume writing and interviewing skills, learn safety standards and material handling best practices, build and identify transferable soft skills — and plan for your future career growth.

3. Join the Path to Pro Network: This jobseeker marketplace was created to connect skilled tradespeople to hiring trades professionals in the construction and home improvement industries. You can use the digital and downloadable guides, available in English and Spanish, to help you create your profile, upload your resume and even add photos of your work to help connect with The Home Depot’s Pro customers who are looking to hire in your area.

“No matter where you are on your trades career journey, Path to Pro has you covered,” said Jenna Arca, Director of Workforce Development at The Home Depot. “Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a career change, our program is designed to empower you with the resources, training and networking opportunities you need to build a successful, fulfilling trades career.”

Ready to kickstart your trades career journey? Take the first step toward success with The Home Depot’s Path to Pro program. Visit PathtoPro.com to learn more.

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.