Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2025-09-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Do you live in a smaller home? If so, you’re not alone. With the current low real estate inventory and challenging housing market, compact homes like townhomes, condos and zero lot line homes are increasingly popular. In 2025, year-to-date new builds of 2- to 4-bedroom-unit projects (typically townhomes) are up 31.5% nationwide, compared to single-family new builds at just 10.1%. The appeal of compact housing is mostly due to its affordability, natural efficiency and low-maintenance living — but limited space does present challenges, especially when it comes to installing effective HVAC systems.

One solution? The slim heat pump, which is a more sustainable heating and cooling solution that combines efficient performance with space-saving design for a variety of housing situations.

Slim design with a big impact

If you haven’t heard of slim heat pumps yet, you likely will soon. An ordinary heat pump is an HVAC unit that efficiently heats and cools by extracting and transferring heat from the air. A slim heat pump works in the same way, but offers a more compact design that makes it ideal for properties with limited outdoor space.

Here are a few additional benefits of choosing a slim heat pump.

• Lower costs: Due to their efficiency, heat pumps can save you hundreds of dollars on energy costs, cutting energy bills year-round. In addition, homeowners can also qualify for the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program (HEEHRP), or save up to $2,000 with an Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) federal tax credit, which is available to homeowners who install high-efficiency equipment through Dec. 31, 2025. There are also opportunities for homeowners to tap into local utility rebate programs for qualifying equipment.*
• Quieter home: For anyone living in a townhome or condo — especially when you share walls with neighbors — a common concern is that a slim heat pump may be noisy. However, the majority of modern slim heat pumps operate at a surprisingly quiet sound level. Its precision-balanced, direct-drive fan enables sound levels as low as 54 decibels, which is comparable to an electric toothbrush.
• Greater sustainability: Heat pumps operate using electricity instead of natural gas or propane, allowing them to have lower greenhouse gas (GHG) potential. If you’re considering replacing your furnace, a slim heat pump is an ideal option, since it will easily integrate with your home’s existing ductwork while increasing efficiency.

Find the best model

Think switching to a slim heat pump could be the right decision for your home? The new Lennox EL18KSLV Slim Heat Pump is a fantastic choice. As a variable-capacity, cold climate heat pump that’s compatible with 2025 Compliant Refrigerant, this model will ensure precise comfort for homeowners, especially if you have a compact home. The EL18KSLV Heat Pump is compatible with multiple Lennox smart thermostats, allowing users to manage its settings through various smart home platforms.

The EL18KSLV Heat Pump features a narrow cabinet designed for easy installation by a professional in space-limited areas, such as zero-lot-line homes. The unit is built to help reduce energy use, and may contribute to lower utility costs throughout the year.

Make the switch

It’s important to note that a slim heat pump should be installed by a licensed HVAC professional, and not on your own. For questions and to find the best solution for your home, consult your local Lennox dealer.

Learn more about slim heat pumps and other industry-leading products for your home at Lennox.com.

*Lennox Industries Inc. (“Lennox”) is not a tax advisor and does not make any representation, warranty, guarantee or other assurance as to whether a particular matchup qualifies or is eligible for tax credits. Moreover, the tax laws are subject to change. As a result, Lennox highly recommends that you consult with a tax advisor regarding your qualification for the tax credits in your circumstance and verify and review the applicable tax laws and regulations.

2025-09-10T05:01:00

(BPT) – Your bathroom doesn’t have to solely be a utilitarian space. With just a few easy changes, you can turn your no-frill bathroom into a relaxing space with a personalized feel.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these five simple tips that can help you enhance your existing aesthetic or completely update the vibes of your bathroom.

1. Hang artwork that reflects your taste

Hanging artwork in the bathroom is the easiest way to quickly add personality. If you’re looking to change the room’s theme from a minimalist black-and-white color scheme to a maximalist tropical theme, find photos and prints with plants and trees in bright greens, reds and yellows.

Or, if you’ve been having a hard time finding a spot to hang art you’ve either purchased or been gifted by a friend, these pieces may look right at home in your bathroom!

Pro tip: Choose waterproof frames that can protect your art from humidity.

2. Update hardware to express your style

The hardware you choose sets the tone and style of a bathroom. If you currently have cool silver drawer pulls, faucets, towel bars and other fixtures with a polished finish, consider switching to warm gold or bronze hardware with a brushed finish.

Keep in mind that you can mix and match colors, materials and finishes to create a bathroom with hardware tailored to your taste. For example, if you want to upgrade your faucet, check out Kohler’s Mix & Match Faucet options. Three faucet collections provide you with the freedom to choose the spout style, handle and finish.

If you’re looking to inject turn-of-the-century charm into your bathroom, choose the Artifacts collection. For a high-fashion, effortless glamour of the Golden Age of Hollywood, opt for the Occasion line of faucet sets. Want to lean into minimalism? Take a look at the Components collection. Each line offers faucet fixtures in several finishes and colors, so you can find what suits your style best.

3. Add a spa-like feel with plants

Turn your bathroom into a tranquil retreat with bathroom-friendly plants. Adding natural, organic elements like plants can bring an otherwise sterile room to life and can soften a bathroom’s hard, clean lines. There are many plants you can choose from, but it’s best to choose ones that thrive in humidity, like calatheas, monsteras, pothos, orchids or ferns.

Once you’ve chosen your plants, look for decorative planters that match your aesthetic or the bathroom’s color scheme. If you’re short on space, consider hanging planters. No matter what you choose, the plants you care for can make the bathroom more inviting.

4. Control the ambiance with lighting

Changing the lighting in your bathroom allows you to effortlessly control the ambiance. For example, dimmable white light bulbs create a cozy atmosphere, but still offer enough illumination for grooming tasks like shaving and applying makeup. Installing a dimmer switch allows you to adjust brightness to create a sunlike daytime mood or a soothing evening glow for a relaxing bath after a long day. For flexibility, install smart lighting that allows you to change the color and brightness depending on your mood and needs.

Pro tip: Choose lighting elements that match or complement other bathroom hardware. If you’re considering installing a faucet from Kohler’s Artifacts, Components and Occasion collections, you’re in luck. Each collection also offers customizable lighting fixtures.

5. Add color and texture with paint and wallpaper

Finally, a new coat of paint or wallpaper can do wonders for a bathroom. With so many colors and patterns to choose from, you can easily find the combination that suits your style.

Tired of the sterile white or beige of your bathroom walls? Grab a can of baby blue or sage green to create a serene setting or use warm reds and pinks for a homey ambiance.

If you want to add textures and patterns, look for wallpaper that reflects the theme of the bathroom or that shows off your hobbies or interests. From florals to faux stone to geometric shapes and more, wallpaper offers endless possibilities to express yourself in this space.

Pro tip: The type of paint and wallpaper you choose matters. Acrylic and latex paints are popular bathroom choices because they can prevent mold and mildew that can flourish in humid conditions. Similarly, vinyl wallpaper is best for the humid bathroom environment.

Are you ready to restyle your bathroom? Using these five tips, you can turn a basic room into a retreat personalized to your heart’s content. To find more bathroom makeover tips and get inspired, visit Kohler.com.

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, cohosts of the HGTV series “Bargain Block,” are experts at transforming properties and boosting curb appeal. A home’s roof is a big part of the design duo’s roof transformations that pair curb appeal with powerful protection. Below are excerpts from a conversation with Keith and Evan about using color to make the most of a roof replacement.

What makes the roof such a good place to make a design statement?

(ET) Representing a large amount of a home’s exterior, the roof provides an ideal space for enhancing curb appeal. However, a roof also needs to be designed to stand up to the elements to help protect one of a consumer’s biggest investments — their home.

New shingles give homeowners lasting peace of mind. They know they’ve made a home improvement that will last for a long time.

(KB) But there is also curb appeal to think about. In many cases, a home’s roof is the single largest thing you see when you pull up to a house, so it can have a huge effect on a home’s appearance.

What are some roof design trends you are seeing in the market?

(KB) There are a lot more color options to choose from today. Owens Corning offers homeowners the option of so many dimensional colors. It’s kind of unbelievable how color options have expanded. When I was a kid, we had cedar, tan and black. Now, you get to have this luxurious moment with the roof and all of the shingle color selections. And luxury is something people expect now — even first-time home buyers.

(ET) When you have so many options, selecting a color gets easier. The undertones in the Owens Corning TruDefinition^® Designer shingle line are neutral, but the pops of color and dimensional textures in the granules make roof color more interesting.

What advice do you offer to homeowners for choosing a shingle color?

(KB) Color tools help homeowners make a beautiful decision that still feels safe. Matching a shingle with a monotone or selecting a complementary color makes it work. I ask people, “Tell me about colorful things that you love,” and that gets them going down a color path. Online style boards and color tools let people see how unexpected color pairings come together. I love the Owens Corning Duration^® Designer shingles in Black Sable, which give the richness of slate. And I also love Owens Corning Duration^®Designer shingle colors Storm Cloud and Pacific Wave!

I used to carry a color wheel. If you’re not confident, you just look across the wheel and there’s a complementary color on the opposite side.

(ET) As long as you are coordinating colors well, you can use almost any color and it will look good. It’s about making sure that you have the right colors paired together. And so, whether you go with a Prairie Craftsman or an Italianate look, it will still look good because you are pairing things properly.

How can a contractor assist homeowners in selecting a roof color?

(KB) A color consultation is a good place to start. Contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network can offer design tools to help inspire a color decision. When looking at shingle boards, removing the color options homeowners don’t like makes it easy to focus on colors that may pair well.

In our business, we’ve proven that you can work design into the home’s improvement and still get the performance and budget you’re looking for. The mood boards Owens Corning put together help contractors and homeowners make use of a proven color process.

What does a color consultation involve?

(KB) We ask people to tell us about themselves and about their house and that really helps personalize color. It also brings a sense of luxury design into the process.

(ET) Sometimes homeowners have a perception that a luxury design roof has to be unaffordable. Advances in asphalt shingles and color pairing mood boards provide an approachable design moment that gives homeowners a luxury look at an asphalt price point.

Learn more about Keith and Evan’s collaboration with Owens Corning and check out “Bargain Block” season 4, currently airing on HGTV.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Your dream deck deserves expert craftsmanship. From the foundation to the finishing touches, there are many steps to consider. If you’re an experienced DIYer, you might tackle the project yourself. But the vast majority of homeowners will hire a pro to take your deck from concept to completion. To help you find the perfect pro for your project, the outdoor living experts at Trex recommend following six important steps.

1: Ask your neighbors

Tap your circle of friends, family and neighbors for referrals. Their firsthand experiences can help narrow your search. You can also get recommendations from local lumberyards, home centers and other decking materials suppliers.

2: Research experts online

Explore online directories and review contractor websites to compile a short list of prospective candidates. Look up reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp and HomeAdvisor, and check out their social media channels to get a sense of their projects and personalities.

3: Find a builder proficient with the materials you want to use

There is a wide range of decking materials — wood, composite, PVC, aluminum — and each comes with its own set of installation requirements and nuanced intricacies. Look for builders experienced in working with your preferred material. For instance, TrexPro^® contractors are trained in building with composite decking. To find these professionals in your area, use the “Find a Builder” tool on Trex.com.

4: Vet prospects

Meet with several builders before booking to ensure you find one that is not only skilled but who also instills confidence and comfort. Pay attention to how quickly they return calls and answer emails. Ask targeted questions about their process and expertise. Trex offers a helpful guide for gathering bids that includes advice on what to ask a deck builder. Clear communication is critical. If a contractor seems reluctant to thoroughly explain their process, that’s a potential red flag.

5: Confirm contractor credibility

Make sure the builder you choose is licensed and carries the proper insurance to protect your home and the people in it. It’s also a good idea to reach out to previous clients to learn about their experiences. Ask questions like: Would you hire this builder again? Did you feel they listened to you throughout your project? Describe any difficulties or surprises along the way and how they were addressed. Was the job completed on time and on budget to your satisfaction?

6: Compare contractor estimates

Get written estimates from multiple contractors. Make sure they clearly outline the full scope of work and costs. You can never have too much information. Contractors with the most comprehensive estimates often understand how to avoid issues down the road. And remember, the least expensive bid is not always the best value.

For more tips on how to find the right deck builder for your project, visit Trex.com.

2025-08-29T12:03:00

(BPT) – Tankless electric water heaters are transforming the way households experience hot water by offering energy-efficient, space-saving solutions that deliver heated water on demand. These compact units can be up to 98% smaller than traditional storage water heaters. They may be installed in tight spaces or even mounted to a wall, freeing up valuable space while reducing energy consumption.

Selecting the right model requires preparation and research. Homeowners should consider key elements of their home’s design, including the number of occupants, bathrooms and hot water appliances — paired with overall water usage — to ensure the correct tankless electric water heater is installed.

Tip 1: Estimate household hot water demand

A critical first step is properly estimating the household’s hot water demand. A tankless electric water heater’s flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), determines its size. Calculating how many hot water GPMs the household typically uses is essential and is done by adding up the flow rates of fixtures, such as faucets and showers, that run at the same time.

After determining the GPM required to meet all the household’s simultaneous needs, the homeowner can choose the right size tankless electric water heater. For example, if someone uses the shower while two faucets are running, the home will need a tankless electric water heater with at least a 5 GPM capacity.

See infographic for an overview of product usage, sizing and geographic zones.

Another important consideration is the number of bathrooms and typical usage patterns of occupants. Larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms may require a higher-capacity unit, whereas smaller households can often rely on a more compact solution. For example, the Rheem RTEX and EcoSmart models under the Rheem^® family of brands cater to a wide range of needs, from point-of-use (POU) units for single fixtures, to whole-home options designed to handle multiple fixtures concurrently.

Tip 2: Factor in regional climate

Groundwater temperatures vary across the country. In northern regions of the U.S., which tend to be colder, the ground water is also colder. This means that a higher temperature rise (difference between the ground water temperature and the desired output water temperature) is required compared to warmer southern areas.

For example, in southern areas where the groundwater temperature is 62° F, to reach a desired output water temperature of 105° F, the temperature rise would be 43° F. Whereas, in northern regions, if the groundwater temperature is 40° F to reach 105° F, the temperature rise is much higher at 65° F. The unit has to work harder to achieve this temperature.

For this reason, certain models will work well in southern climates, but a similar household in a northern region may need a larger tankless electric water heater to achieve the degree rise needed to meet household hot water requirements.

Tip 3: Account for water temperature and flow rate

Water temperature and flow rate are equally crucial when determining the appropriate tankless electric water heater size. Higher flow rates demand more powerful models to maintain consistent hot water output. Some residences may be accommodated by one whole-home unit, while others may require multiple point-of-use systems.

Tip 4: Evaluate electrical capacity

The home’s electrical capacity is another essential consideration when selecting a tankless electric water heater. For most homes, the average available amp service is either 100-, 200-, or 300-amps. While a 200-amp service panel typically suffices for average households, new construction, larger homes and high-demand systems may require a higher 300-amp service panel. Additionally, older homes with lower amp service may require an electric panel upgrade to meet the needs of a tankless electric water heater.

Higher-capacity tankless electric water heaters require more power, so be sure to assess the capability of the home’s electric service panel to accommodate additional circuit breakers before installation. Consult a licensed electrician or contractor to evaluate the home, circuit breaker size and wiring gauge to ensure the service panel can handle the load, prevent overloads and ensure a safe, efficient operation.

There are many benefits to tankless electric water heaters, including the ease of installation. Tankless electric models simplify installation by eliminating the need for venting, but sizing is key. If the unit is undersized, it may not fully meet demand during simultaneous water use. An oversized unit can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher utility costs.

Follow these tips and use a manufacturer’s guide, such as Rheem’s online sizing resource, to confidently select a tankless electric water heater model, then work with a professional to guarantee a safe and efficient installation for endless hot water and energy-efficient operation.

2025-08-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Your phone can control your thermostat, your fridge sends you grocery alerts … but your toilet? Still stuck in 1995. It’s time for an upgrade — and no, it doesn’t involve knocking down any walls. Bringing your bathroom into the 21st century and adding a touch of luxury to your experience doesn’t take a $25,000 remodel — just one smart addition.

If it feels like bidets are suddenly everywhere, you’re not imagining it. While bidets are common in Europe and Asia, and they’re even legally required in most Italian homes, many Americans don’t know what a bidet looks like. But that has been changing quickly in recent years. Through online reviews and social media buzz, more people are discovering that using a stream of water instead of just toilet paper isn’t strange — it’s smart.

Whether you’re bidet-curious or still skeptical, this guide will break down the basics — what a bidet does, why it’s catching on across the U.S. and how modern bidet seats like Coway’s Bidetmega 400S and 500S are changing the way people think about personal hygiene.

What exactly is a bidet, and how does it work?

A bidet is a bathroom fixture or toilet attachment for cleansing. It sprays a stream of water for cleansing after you go to the bathroom, not unlike a water fountain. The name comes from an old French word that meant “pony,” since users of the original bidets had to straddle the device in a way that looked a bit like riding a horse.

While traditional bidets resembled low sinks that sat next to toilets, modern bidets are much more integrated and technologically advanced. Today’s electric bidet seats have come a long way from the French pony days, and they can be easily added to the toilet you already have. Now, a bidet seat attaches to your toilet and connects directly to your home’s fresh water supply through a simple T-valve, which ensures that the water it sprays is separate from that of the toilet bowl.

Why is a bidet a must-have amenity?

A bidet not only elevates your bathroom design, but it also provides physical, financial and sanitary benefits. Bidets improve health and wellness because they’re more hygienic than the alternative. Bidets can also help people with mobility issues due to aging or physical disabilities, or temporary challenges that occur postpartum or after surgery. Homeowners love that bidets prevent common plumbing problems caused by flushing lots of toilet paper or wipes.

Does using a bidet feel different from wiping with toilet paper alone?

Using a bidet is a gentle and refreshing experience that only takes a few seconds. You can still use a bit of toilet paper, though some bidets even have air dryers.

Modern electric bidet seats are specifically designed with your comfort in mind, with tech-driven features and adjustable settings that enable you to personalize your experience. Coway’s Bidetmega 400S and Bidetmega 500S, for example, feature a three-stage wash that automatically varies the angles and water pressure to remove residue, plus customizable user profiles with memory settings that remember your preferences.

Are bidets safe and hygienic?

Bidets are very safe and incredibly hygienic. The water they spray comes from the same clean source as the water you use to brush your teeth or wash your face. Keeping a bidet clean can also be very simple. Many of the latest bidets are designed with hygienic features like a self-cleaning nozzle, antimicrobial materials and coatings, and germ-killing UV lights.

Do I need to hire a pricey plumber to install a bidet?

Bidet seats are easy to install directly onto your existing toilet. Just measure your toilet to determine if it is elongated or round, then match your bidet to that shape. You only need basic tools and about 30 minutes — no plumber necessary. Upgrading your bathroom has never been simpler!

What cutting-edge features do the most technologically advanced bidets have these days?

Today’s smart bidets don’t just clean you — they clean themselves, adapt to your comfort, save energy and improve safety, compared to basic or old-school models. Coway’s most advanced Bidetmega models include features that provide a more hygienic, personalized, convenient and eco-friendly user experience than the average bidet.

For those who prioritize cleanliness and hygiene:

• The auto-cleaning nozzle and bacteria-eliminating UV light, plus WaterShield™ misting spray, prevent toilet bowl germs
• Integrated carbon deodorizer and auto-close lid contain air particles

For those who value personalized comfort:

• Three-stage gentle wash setting with i-wave technology allows for customized water pressure, motion and spray patterns
• Adjustable nozzle position, seat warmth, built-in dryer, water temperature and water pressure offer unparalleled comfort
• User profiles save your personalized settings

For those who seek practical convenience:

• Nightlight for easy midnight bathroom visits
• Wireless remote with docking station or wall mount for convenience
• Tankless design instantly heats only the water you need, with no waste
• Eco Mode reduces energy use when idle and decreases seat temperature to prevent overheating

Treat yourself to the modern bathroom upgrade you deserve. To learn more about bidets, discover the latest features and find out why so many Americans are finally joining the bidet bandwagon, visit https://cowaymega.com/pages/bidets.

2025-08-22T08:57:01

(BPT) – There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy! It’s also the perfect season to refresh your space and take on a few home improvement projects. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s a great time to roll up your sleeves and get things done around the house. From quick touch-ups to small but mighty upgrades, these five tasks will have your home looking and feeling brand new in no time:

Touch Up Walls

As time goes on, walls can show signs of wear, from small dents to nail holes. Restore them to their former glory by patching holes and imperfections with DAP DryDex^® Nail Hole Filler, now available in a convenient 1-fluid-ounce tube as part of the DAP On-The-Go line. This spackling goes on pink and dries white, indicating when it’s ready to be sanded and painted. Finish with a fresh coat of paint for a crisp, clean look.

Re-Caulk Windows & Doors

Temperature changes and seasonal shifts can cause caulk to crack or shrink, leading to energy loss. Improve insulation and boost energy efficiency by sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors with DAP ALEX Plus^® All-Purpose Caulk. Available in a 2.8-fluid-ounce “On-The-Go” size, this high-quality, flexible caulk is perfect for all your touch-ups around the house and ensures a tight seal to keep your home comfortable and energy costs down.

Refresh Your Outdoor Space

Take some time to spruce up your outdoor areas. Sweep patios and decks, power-wash walkways and clean outdoor furniture to create a welcoming space for relaxing and entertaining. Consider adding potted plants or updating outdoor décor for a fresh, inviting look.

Fix Broken Items

Summer is the perfect time to fix those little things around the house that you’ve been putting off. Use DAP RapidFuse^® Flex Gel Super Glue to quickly and securely repair tears on outdoor umbrellas or patio cushions, broken shoe soles, backpack straps, or ripped leather on furniture. With its fast-setting and durable bond, you can extend the life of your favorite household items in just minutes.

Upgrade Cabinet Hardware

Refresh your kitchen or bathroom cabinets by swapping out old knobs and pulls for modern hardware. This quick and affordable update instantly enhances the look of your cabinetry, giving your space a stylish, upgraded feel.

With these simple yet effective projects, you can rejuvenate your home and enjoy the rest of summer. For more home improvement tips and products, visit dap.com.

2025-08-20T10:29:00

(BPT) – In the world of automotive repair, speed, precision, and tool reliability isn’t just nice to have — it’s a non-negotiable. Whether you’re a pro in a fast-paced shop or an enthusiast working in your home garage, the right tool can mean the difference between a simple task and a time-consuming struggle.

toolant — a brand that values feedback from mechanics, detailers, and technicians — has just released two tools engineered specifically for high-performance automotive environments: the toolant 10-inch Plier Wrench and the 3/8″ Drive Compact Flex Head Ratchet Wrench. These aren’t just upgrades — they’re problem-solvers.

A smarter alternative to the adjustable wrench

If you’re still fumbling with bulky adjustable wrenches for fittings, clamps, or flare nuts, toolant’s Plier Wrench is the ultimate upgrade. Designed with a fast push-button adjustment mechanism and 2-inch (52 mm) jaw capacity, it locks onto fasteners with speed and precision — no slipping, no rounding, no repositioning.

With smooth, parallel jaws and a CR-V steel build, the Plier Wrench gives a firm, damage-free grip on delicate surfaces like polished fittings or anodized parts. The 10:1 leverage ratio means less hand strain during repetitive tasks like tightening hose clamps or fitting brake lines. Whether you’re under the hood or under the car, this tool replaces multiple wrenches and saves time with each turn.

Big power in tight spaces

The toolant Compact Drive Flex Head Ratchet Wrench was built to reach the most difficult spaces — and it delivers. Featuring one of the smallest heads in its class (3/8″ drive packed into a 1/4″ body), it’s perfect for working in the smallest of spaces.

A 90-tooth gear system gives you a tight 4-degree swing arc, ideal for restricted spaces. The 11-position locking flex head lets you lock in the perfect angle for the job, and the long ergonomic handle gives you the leverage you need without compromising access.

Engineered to outlast the job

Durability is built in with a lifetime guarantee — making tools you can count on for the long haul. The ratchet wrench exceeds ASME (American industry standards) torque standards by 1.5x and is tested to withstand over 75,000 cycles — more than enough for the day-in, day-out demands of a working technician.

Made with mechanics in mind

toolant designs tools based on feedback from pros in the field, and it shows. The Plier Wrench and Flex Head Ratchet join a lineup of trusted gear built for real-world functionality.

Where to buy

Both tools are available now on Amazon:

• toolant 10-inch Plier Wrench
• toolant 3/8″ Drive Compact Flex Head Ratchet
  

Whether you’re working on the job or building your dream car, these tools are built to help you get it done — faster and smarter.

To learn more, visit toolant’s product lineup on Amazon.

2025-08-18T14:31:00

(BPT) – Today, kitchens that incorporate design elements from famed architects go far beyond the latest trends. They draw on key principles of balance, proportion and integrity to create spaces that feel luxurious and enduring. Every detail, from faucet finishes to cabinet silhouettes, plays an important role in shaping the overall space. Homeowners are seeking a mix of beauty and function, turning to the outdoors for inspiration.

Designing with structure in mind

Designers are inspired by architectural philosophies, coupled with cues from nature to create visually unique spaces. Geometric shapes and strategic focal points shape the kitchen’s experience, directing flow and rhythm. The Frank Lloyd Wright^® Kitchen Collection by Brizo^®, embodies these principles with its rounded and squared arch spouts, asymmetrical designs and clean lines, coupled with a wide choice of natural materials. Wood, glass, black onyx and concrete effortlessly combine to create a statement look.

Embracing unique materials

Emphasizing organic architecture demands quality materials to create cohesive, inviting kitchens that blend indoor and outdoor elegance. These elements serve not only as structural features, but as sources of inspiration that inform design choices around flooring, appliances and fixtures. By introducing expressive, tactile materials, designers are creating unexpected yet harmonious combinations, allowing the materials themselves to act as design features, rather than relying solely on added décor.

Taking the lead from architectural pioneers

Visionaries like Frank Lloyd Wright drew influence from nature, infusing design with simplicity, individuality and integrity. Today’s kitchens can echo this sentiment through the incorporation of finishes and accents in earth tones, warm golds, deep charcoals and soft metallics, creating warmth and authenticity. As kitchen design evolves, spaces designed with an eye for architecture provide a cohesive vision, narrating a story through shape, form and material.

These new spaces transcend mere utility, merging purpose with art and using layout, materials and natural palettes to define their essence. This is not just a passing trend; it’s a cultural shift reshaping kitchen and home design for the future.

2025-08-14T09:31:00

(BPT) – Backyard gatherings are more popular than ever. Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge, and the numbers back it up — searches for “dinner parties” have surged by 148%, according to Evite. Translation? Home is the new hot spot, and your backyard is prime real estate.

But creating a standout space takes more than a grill and some string lights. Today’s best outdoor setups combine style, comfort and functionality, including built-in kitchens, smart tech features, efficient layouts and weather-ready details. The trick is to plan ahead. Knowing what you want from the start, whether it’s a place to unwind, entertain or both, makes it easier to bring your vision to life.

These four smart design moves will help you build a deck that’s made to host, no matter the season.

1. Maximize functionality with a multi-level design

Think beyond a single flat surface. A multi-level deck layout adds dimension, functionality and visual interest to your outdoor space — essentially doubling your usable square footage. Imagine dining or hosting guests on the upper level, while a shaded lounge, private spa retreat or media-ready hangout lives below.

Have a second-story deck? Installing a drainage system between the substructure and deck surface creates a watertight barrier that prevents rain from seeping through. This opens up endless possibilities for finished space underneath — whether you want to relax, entertain or stream the big game year-round.

2. Design zones for every occasion

The most functional decks are laid out like open-concept interiors, with defined areas for dining, lounging and conversation. These distinct zones help guests move naturally while creating cozy, purposeful spaces. Place your outdoor dining table on the upper level and use the space below for casual seating or a tucked-away bar. Use rugs, sectional seating and ambient lighting to visually define each area, without obstructing views or disrupting flow.

3. Power up entertainment features

Today’s outdoor spaces are tech-enabled with everything from TVs and speakers to heaters, fans and charging stations. However, all that functionality requires safe and dry infrastructure. This is where an “above-the-joist” deck drainage system, like Trex^® RainEscape^®, really pays off. Unlike other systems that install below the joists of the deck, RainEscape covers the entire substructure, allowing you to safely run electric, gas and data lines to support modern amenities like a media wall, smart kitchen or full sound system. Add Wi-Fi extenders and smart-home integration to keep the space fully connected and guest-ready.

4. Build in smart storage

Even the most stylish decks need practical features. Built-in storage keeps essentials — like cushions, serving ware and party supplies — organized and out of sight, yet always close at hand. Use the protected area beneath your deck for cabinets, weatherproof bins or under-bench compartments. You’ll keep clutter at bay, while ensuring your space looks polished and feels ready for anything.

The best outdoor living spaces start with thoughtful planning. When you design with intention from the beginning, you create a versatile space that looks great, functions seamlessly and fits the way you live and entertain.

Discover how to bring your vision to life at TrexRainEscape.com.