The Top 10 Renovations That Increase Home Value

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.

How to protect your investment in tile by choosing the right mortar

2023-10-16T02:01:00

(BPT) – Tile is having a moment. Although you might argue tile has been around for thousands of years (and you’d be correct), today’s tile options for home design are more varied and more versatile than ever. For example, you can use concrete-look or metallic tiles for a modern industrial look, or porcelain tile (made from clay) in earth tones, blues or greens to embrace the nature-derived biophilic design trend. And those are just a couple of examples.

New options in terms of tile materials, colorways, shapes and sizes allow for a wide range of effects that can enhance any area of your home, from floors and counters to accent walls and more — not only bath surrounds or your kitchen backsplash. Because high-quality tile can be a big investment in your home improvement, it’s important to make the correct choice when it comes to one often overlooked material — the right mortar for the job.

The right mortar protects your tile

Which bonding mortar you choose depends on the specifications of the job, such as where it’s located, whether it’s horizontal (floors, counters) or vertical (walls), as well as the size and weight of the tile you’re using. Other consideration include the budget and timeline for your project. Using the right mortar the right way will ensure that your tile stays in place and helps prevent breakage, no matter what type of tile or project you’re planning.

To help you understand your mortar options, the experts at Custom Building Products offer tips for tile installation and how to choose the best mortar for the job.

Standard projects on a budget

If your project is straightforward and doesn’t involve large format tile, and budget is a priority, a good quality choice is VersaBond Professional Thin-Set Mortar. You can use this cost-effective mortar for projects ranging from plywood subfloors to porcelain and glass tile installations. It has outstanding adhesion and good bond strength, making it suitable for interior and exterior floors, countertops and walls.

Large-format tile projects

If you’re considering tile that measures at least 15 inches long, this is considered a large-format tile. This size is becoming increasingly popular for a wide array of residential and commercial projects, used in approximately 80% of tile projects today. Because of their larger size and greater weight, they require specially formulated mortar. VersaBond LFT is a non-sag, non-slump mortar specifically designed for use with large-format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. This mortar supports large and heavy tile, and is suitable for internal and external floors and walls. You can also use this mortar for tiling with in-floor heating systems.

Projects on a tight deadline

If your tiling project needs to be completed as quickly as possible, VersaBond LFT RS mortar will help you fast-track its completion. This rapid-setting, non-sag, non-slump, polymer-modified mortar can be used for large-format porcelain, ceramic and natural stone tile. It features a non-slumping formula to eliminate lippage so the surface remains flat. The biggest benefit is that it cures fast, so you can get started on your grout two hours after installation.

How to avoid trowel and error

Once you’ve got your tile and mortar selected, it’s also crucial to apply the mortar correctly. Here are basic tips to help you or your contractor avoid common errors so your tile installation looks great and lasts for many years to come.

1. Before applying mortar, the surface must be flat, sound and clean.

2. Comb trowel ridges in a straight line, all in the same direction, for the best results and durability.

3. For rectangular tile, trowel ridges should go along the short edge of the tile, which allows for better air release when you apply the tile.

4. Research the right trowel size for the selected tile. Larger tiles often require larger trowels.

5. For large tile or any tile on exterior surfaces, back-buttering tile is recommended. Do this by using the flat side of the trowel to add a smooth layer of mortar to the back side of the tile.

Following these tips, you should be able to correctly install aesthetically pleasing tile to add beauty and functionality to any space in your home.

Ready to get started? To learn more about tile mortar, including tips and tricks for application, visit CustomBuildingProducts.com.

5 easy ways to upgrade your outdoor space this fall

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.

5 fall to-dos for a successful spring deck build

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.

Winter home checklist: 10 ways to winterize your home and save money

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.

3 pro tips to help you jumpstart your career in the skilled trades

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.

6 questions to ask your HVAC contractor

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.

Fall into home improvement: 6 projects to tackle this autumn

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.

5 Easy and Affordable Ways to Update Your Kitchen or Bath

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.

8 Essential Costs to Consider When Planning a Deck

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.