Fire safety: Act now to protect your home and family

2024-10-10T14:01:00

(BPT) – Fall and winter are peak seasons for home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). To protect your home this Fire Safety Prevention Week, take proactive steps to safeguard against fires, and to be sure your family is ready in case of an emergency.

Here are practical things you can do to prevent fires from starting, and to respond quickly when necessary.

Check your smoke detectors. Every fall and spring check your detectors and replace batteries annually. It’s vital to have working smoke detectors on every level of your home, outside bedrooms and near the kitchen (but at least 10 feet from cooking appliances).

Schedule an electrical inspection. For older homes, or if you haven’t had electrical work done for years, it’s recommended to make sure your home is properly wired and up to current safety codes.

Keep a close eye on kitchen safety. The NFPA reports the kitchen as the most common place for house fires to start. Unattended cooking is a common culprit, so make sure to always closely monitor your stovetop and oven while they’re in use.

Always keep a fire extinguisher handy, and make sure you and other family members know how to use it. Be prepared to use a pan lid to smother a grease fire if one should arise, as water will make it worse.

Consider kitchen appliances with built-in safety features. Some older appliances don’t offer safety features that up-to-date technology has made possible. Today’s electric and induction ranges are considerably safer than traditional gas ovens and stovetops, as there are no open flames, they don’t produce indoor air pollution and they’re not capable of causing gas leaks.

In addition, if you’re concerned about your stovetop accidentally getting turned on, you can now find electric ranges and cooktops that come with a safety locking device that can stop their functions. For example, these models from LG have a built-in safety feature that prevents the burners on the cooktop from being heated when the Lock function is set, even if the touch buttons are pressed: the LG STUDIO 6.3 cubic foot InstaView® Electric Slide-in Range with ProBake Convection® and Air Fry (LSES6338N) and the LG 6.3 cubic foot Smart Wi-Fi Enabled ProBake Convection® InstaView® Electric Slide-In Range with Air Fry (LSEL6335F). It is always recommended that you read the owner’s manual to ensure that you use the product as intended in the safest possible manner.

Safeguard your laundry room. Another potential area of concern for fire safety is your laundry room, specifically your clothes dryer. While you may remember to clean the lint filter, many homeowners forget about the dryer’s duct. With too much lint build-up in the duct, restricted airflow can cause dryers to overheat, which could lead to a fire.

To help you remember this important chore, consider an LG Dryer that offers FlowSense® Duct Clogging and Lint Filter Indicators with the LG ThinQ® app — which sends you notifications when it detects a reduction in airflow, prompting you to clean the duct. Regular cleaning based on these alerts helps maintain proper ventilation, reducing risk of overheating and ensuring safer dryer operation.

Models offering this feature include the LG 7.4 cubic foot Ultra Large Capacity Smart Front Load Electric Energy Star Dryer with Sensor Dry & Steam Technology (DLEX5500W), plus larger models like the LG 9.0 cubic foot Mega Capacity Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Front Load Electric Dryer with TurboSteam™ and Built-In Intelligence (DLEX8980V) and the LG 9.0 cubic foot Mega Capacity Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Front Load Gas Dryer with TurboSteam™ and Built-In Intelligence (DLGX8901B). These dryers include the ability to access smart functions to monitor drying cycles and more through the LG ThinQ® app.

Review your emergency plan. Make sure that everyone in your household knows what to do if a smoke detector goes off or there’s a fire in progress. Hold regular family meetings to review exits from each room, and practice where to meet outside in case of emergency. This can make a difference when there are only minutes to exit your home safely.

Being proactive, choosing appliances with safety features and reviewing your emergency plan will all give you more peace of mind when it comes to fire safety this season.

Twice as nice: Step-by-step tips for painting a room two colors

2024-10-10T08:17:00

(BPT) – If your walls could talk, what would the paint color say about you? You’re bold? Calm? Sophisticated? Whatever the answer would be, painting a wall multiple colors is an affordable, yet impactful, way to uniquely express your personality. A two-toned wall is an interior design technique that utilizes two paint colors on the same wall, allowing you to express your individual style and add dimension to a flat surface. No matter your comfort or skill level, follow these steps to achieve professional-level results and showcase your creativity.

  • Prepare to paint: To get ready for painting, gather all necessary supplies, like a drop cloth, primer, a paintbrush, a roller and painter’s tape. Remove as much furniture as possible, covering any large items with a tarp. Using a sponge, wipe the walls with warm soapy water, then repair any cracks or holes with putty and sand the surface smooth. If you’re painting over a dark color, apply a primer as a base coat to ensure an even foundation.
  • Measure and mark: To create a dynamic color-blocking effect on your walls, start by determining where the colors will meet and mark the spot with a pencil or chalk, using a straight edge for precision. Color blocking can be executed horizontally or vertically, or with additional creative options like diagonals or geometric patterns. A horizontal scheme splits the wall, making the room feel longer, while a vertical approach enhances the sense of height and openness, especially in open floor plans.
  • Apply painter’s tape: Regardless of your chosen approach, using painter’s tape, such as FrogTape® brand painter’s tape, is essential for achieving clean lines. It’s treated with exclusive PaintBlock® Technology to seal tape edges and prevent paint bleed — critical in this type of project. Apply the tape along the marked line to create sharp edges where each color begins and ends. Use a firm plastic tool to eliminate gaps and seal edges. And, be sure to tape adjacent surfaces, including baseboards, ceilings and walls.
  • Paint the light color: To achieve full coverage, apply the light base color one coat at a time, starting by “cutting in” along the tape with a paintbrush and then using a roller to fill in the rest of the section. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next, using as many coats as needed for the desired look.
  • Paint the dark color: After completing the light color, repeat the painting process by cutting in along the tape with small brush strokes and using a roller to fill in the rest of the section. Keep adding coats until you achieve the finished product you have in mind.
  • Remove the painter’s tape: For best results, remove the tape while the paint is still wet, pulling slowly at a 45-degree angle to reveal a room that pops with personality.

Two-tone walls can transform a space to reflect your style with just a simple change. With the right supplies, techniques and color selections, you can create a look that you’re proud of, regardless of your skill level. For more step-by-step project tutorials, tips and tricks and creative inspiration, visit FrogTape.com.

Tackling a tiling project? Great grout makes all the difference

2024-10-06T23:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re a professional or DIYer, laying tile is one of those skills that looks easy when it’s well done, but can be complicated and physically demanding. The fun part is choosing the beautiful tile, but it’s a lot harder to install it. One of the best-kept secrets of the trade is that when it comes to laying tile, using great grout matters.

To ensure your tile installation goes smoothly, looks perfect and lasts for years, it’s crucial to choose the right grout, gather your tools ahead of time and read the installation instructions before you begin.

Colorful mosaic tile work in white tiled shower with glass door.

A smarter choice than traditional grout

Want grout that requires no mixing, no guesswork, is ready to use and easy to clean? Prism® SCG Ultimate Performance Pre-Mixed Single Component® Grout is your best bet. It uses a proprietary acrylic formulation that cures as hard as cement grout, but is the easiest to install. It also offers superior performance, with unsurpassed stain resistance and color consistency from bucket to bucket. Prism SCG is a professional-grade grout that’s crack-resistant and efflorescence free, with MicroBan® protection to inhibit mold and mildew growth.

This grout is great for DIYers and pros alike because it’s easy to spread and clean — and requires no sealing. Best yet, you’ll have 40 designer-inspired colors to choose from, so your kitchen, bath or other project can achieve the desired look.

Not sure what color will best complement your tile choice? Contractors, architects, designers and DIYers can discover the perfect grout color before installation with the new web app from CUSTOM. You can also see examples of the product being used in this video.

Note: It’s normal for grout to appear lighter in color directly out of the bucket, but as it dries, it will darken to match the expected color, shown on the color chart or grout stick.

Prism SCG grout in a container.

Applications

Prism SCG grout works well with porcelain, glass, ceramic, mosaic, quarry, terrazzo, polished natural stone and grout-able luxury vinyl tile with joint widths between 1/16 inch and 1/2 inch. You can use the grout with interior and most exterior residential, commercial, high-traffic and intermittently wet areas including countertops, backsplashes, tub surrounds, shower walls and floors.

Note: Prism SCG Grout is not for use in industrial applications or areas subjected to harsh or continuous chemicals (high or low pH), high heat or high-pressure cleaning. For heavy industrial tile installations, use CEG-IG 100% Solids Epoxy Grout.

Tools for the job

After you’ve selected your tile and grout color, you’ll want to gather your tools. Fortunately, with Prism SCG Grout you’ll only need a solid urethane float, margin trowel, bucket of water and microfiber towels to remove grout haze. It’s ready to use right from the bucket, with a resealable lid.

Read the Installation Guide before you begin.

Person wearing rubber gloves using Prism SCG and a float to grout verigated blue glass tile.

Tips for best grout usage

Prism SCG is designed to be installed at surface and ambient temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 90°F (32°C). You can expect longer or shorter working times depending on the temperature conditions of your environment and tile porosity.

You’ll use a solid urethane float to apply the grout. Start with small areas (about 10-20 square feet) at one time, then you can expand the area as your proficiency grows. Professionals or anyone comfortable with the process can control up to 100 square feet at a time. The advanced formulation prevents this grout from drying out during extended open times.

Residual grout is easiest to clean while still wet, using a damp microfiber towel or cloth. One of the biggest advantages of Prism SCG is that it’s cleanable immediately — or within 30 minutes of applying — which means no more waiting for grout to set before you can clean grout haze. And you don’t have to come back later to seal it.

It’s recommended to do a final drag with a damp microfiber towel to pick up leftover grout haze immediately after installation. However, for up to three days following installation, grout haze can be removed with water and a sponge. After three days, grout haze should be removed using a neutral PH tile or grout cleaner like Aqua Mix® Concentrated Stone & Tile Cleaner. Prism SCG Grout will cure by the next day for light traffic applications, and after three days for shower applications. Curing time will be longer in high humidity conditions.

Note for professionals: Prism SCG meets ANSI A118.19 and aligns with ANSI A118.7 and A118.3 performance characteristics.

More questions? You can find answers to frequently asked questions here.

It’s time to step up your grout game! Use the new revolutionary Prism SCG, available at tile distributors and coming soon to The Home Depot near you. For more information about this or other CUSTOM Building Products, visit CustomBuildingProducts.com.

Expert tips to save you money heating your home

2024-09-30T12:01:00

(BPT) – As the days get shorter and cooler, it’s the perfect time to turn your attention to your heating system. Before it gets too chilly, you’ll want your HVAC system to be in great condition — clean, tuned up and ready to go.

The pros at Aire Serv, a Neighborly company, offer safety and money-saving tips so your home will be comfortable during the colder days to come.

Check the basics

Experts recommend periodic checks that all heating and return vents around your home are unobstructed. Making sure furniture and other items don’t block air from moving freely means a consistent temperature from room to room, and your furnace won’t have to work as hard.

Also, clear areas around your water heater, clothes dryer (including the vent) and fireplaces to reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.

Pro tip: Close your fireplace damper when not in use, so warm air can’t escape.

Schedule your fall tune-up

Even if you consider yourself handy, it’s best to have a trained HVAC service professional perform the tune-up and cleaning so your HVAC system and furnace can operate efficiently — saving you money on energy bills all year, keeping your home more comfortable and ensuring the system is safe.

Don’t wait for the first frigid day to get your furnace serviced, as many service professionals receive increased calls during extremely cold days due to system breakdowns. A fall service means you’ll have prioritized service and have no down time. And definitely don’t wait until noticing things like bad smells to call your service professional. While it may be normal to smell burning dust at the beginning of the season, it could also be a warning sign of a dangerous problem.

Consider a duct cleaning service to clear dust and debris from your home’s heating ducts. Experts recommend that with some exceptions, duct cleaning should be completed every 3-5 years.

Remember: If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call 911, then contact your service professional.

Change your furnace filter frequently

If you can’t recall the last time you changed the furnace filter, chances are it’s overdue. Experts recommend swapping HVAC air filters every 30 to 90 days to ensure no dust or debris builds up in your system.

When air can flow freely through the unit, your system doesn’t need to work as hard to heat your home. This translates to lower energy bills and a fresher home. If anyone in your family struggles with asthma or allergies, prioritize this task, and consider changing the filter more frequently — especially when pollen is high.

Pro tip: Write the date on the side of your filter when you change it and put a reminder for the next swap on your calendar.

Thermostats make a difference

To help save money on heating costs, take time to learn how your thermostat works. Turning down your thermostat is one of the most effective ways to save on heating: You can save approximately 15% of your heating bill just by lowering heat 7 degrees over an eight-hour period.

It’s common to react to short-term temperature changes by bumping it up and down, but constant changes cost more. If you don’t have one, get a programmable thermostat so you can “set it and forget it.” Set lower temps when you’re away from your home or asleep, but no lower than 67 degrees, to prevent issues like freezing pipes.

Pro tip: If your HVAC system isn’t working well despite regular maintenance and cleaning, your thermostat could be the culprit. Upgrading to a new programmable thermostat, or smart thermostat you can operate from your phone, could be a great step toward a more efficient heating system.

Consider HVAC upgrades

If you have an older furnace, you may want to consider a new, more energy-efficient unit. Most older homes have ducted systems, but ductless heating systems (also called ductless mini-split systems) have an outdoor compressor connected to multiple indoor units so you can heat or cool specific zones or rooms.

Your service technician can help you learn the pros and cons of each system and assess issues like purchase price versus operating expense, your home’s floor plan, existing ductwork and aesthetic differences.

Dislike dry air in your home? The answer could be a whole-home humidifier. Furnace heating systems can cause havoc on your skin, making air dry and difficult to breathe — and negatively impact wooden furniture. A furnace humidifier installed on your furnace can distribute moistened air equally throughout your home.

To learn more and find an experienced Aire Serv service professional to help keep your home warm, safe and comfortable, visit AireServ.com/tune-up.

Taking steps to prevent falls

2024-09-19T20:01:00

(BPT) – When you’re young, an injury from a fall may sideline you for a few days or weeks, but a full recovery is usually quick. As you get older, the consequences of falls are more serious, setting up a sequence of events that can have longstanding implications on independence and health.

Although falls become more common and can be more serious as you age, they are not a natural part of getting older. In fact, most falls are preventable. Knowing the risk factors and steps to prevent falls is important.

Risk factors for falls include overall health (e.g., physical fitness), environment (e.g., hazards at home), and behaviors (e.g., rushing around).

Simple steps to help prevent falls

Stay active. Exercise helps increase or maintain coordination and muscle tone that can keep you steady on your feet and sharpen your reactions. Walking, gardening or taking an exercise class are just a few ways to keep your heart healthy and your muscles toned.

Manage underlying chronic conditions. The better your overall health, the lower your risk of falling. Chronic conditions like diabetes, depression, osteoarthritis, obesity and high blood pressure can increase your risk. Managing conditions by seeing your health care provider regularly, taking medication as prescribed, eating a healthy diet and choosing appropriate exercise can help prevent falls.

Review medications. Some medications’ side effects and interactions can cause dizziness, which can increase the risk of falling. Types of medicines associated with an increased risk include sedatives and diuretics, as well as those used to treat high blood pressure and anxiety. Talk to your health care provider about all prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines you take.

Get your eyes checked. Vision changes as you age, so it is important to get your eyes checked once a year to make sure your prescription is up to date and to be screened for any eye-related diseases like cataracts and glaucoma, which are usually treatable when caught at an early stage.

Assess your home. Look around your home for potential hazards. Consider enlisting the help of a family member or friend who may be more likely to notice things you don’t. Make small changes like installing grab bars in your bathrooms, getting rid of slippery throw rugs (or adding a rubber backing), and keeping passageways inside and outside your home well-lit and free from clutter and debris.

For more tips and information, visit acl.gov/fallsprevention.

LG’s Vision for AI-Driven Homes Powered by Affectionate Intelligence

2024-09-12T08:01:00

By Lyu Jae-cheol, President of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company

(BPT) – The global market for smart home technology is experiencing unprecedented growth, due in no small part to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Boasting the ability to learn from people’s device-usage patterns and preferences, AI-powered home solutions can provide highly personalized experiences tailored to each customer’s unique needs.

LG is at the forefront of this trend, setting new standards and creating new possibilities and value with its advanced AI technology. Earlier this year, the company redefined AI as “Affectionate Intelligence,” emphasizing its commitment to creating empathetic and caring AI that delivers unique customer experiences. At IFA 2024, LG unveiled its vision for the future of home living under the theme “Experience, Affectionate Intelligence Home.” The company’s Berlin showcase highlighted how AI can transform everyday life by anticipating and meeting customers’ needs in a variety of different situations and scenarios.

IFA 2024 saw the debut of LG’s latest AI Home solutions, designed to bring the convenience and freedom of the “Zero Labor Home.” Offering far more than just simplified device control and connectivity, Affectionate Intelligence introduces empathy and care to the smart home environment, enhancing customers’ quality of life in myriad ways.

Central to LG’s vision is LG ThinQ ON, an AI hub that seamlessly orchestrates the operation of all smart devices in the home. Through ThinQ ON and innovations such as the LG Self-Driving AI Home Hub, LG’s booth gave IFA attendees an opportunity to see firsthand how AI can help create a comfortable and connected home experience. Individually and collectively, the company’s innovations exemplify the concept of Affectionate Intelligence, where AI not only responds to commands but also understands and evolves to meet changing needs.

Firstly, LG AI Home provides “Conversational Interactions,” allowing users to control home appliances and Internet of Things (IoT) devices with voice commands alone. The brain of LG AI Home is the company’s generative AI agent, FURON, which integrates advanced large language models (LLMs) such as OpenAI’s GPT-4 Omni. FURON combines learning and contextual understanding with real-time spatial sensing and user lifestyle data to optimize the home environment for each user.

As an example of how this works in practice, if a user says, “Hi LG, I’m going to sleep. Please turn off any devices that are still running,” the AI Home Hub will assess the situation and respond accordingly, such as offering to turn off the dryer if it has nearly finished its cycle. The hub can also tailor the environment for a good night’s sleep by playing the user’s preferred relaxation music and dimming the lights.

Additionally, FURON learns user preferences for different device settings, remembering and applying them at the appropriate times for personalized comfort and convenience. Designed with flexibility, FURON can incorporate additional LLMs to evolve with new technological developments.

LG AI Home also offers an “Upgradability” feature, allowing users to upgrade their existing appliances into AI-powered devices, delivering the convenience and comfort of LG AI Home while saving them the expense of buying newer models. For example, connecting a non-AI TV and an occupancy sensor to ThinQ ON allows LG’s intelligent system to pause content when the user leaves the room and resume it upon return. Similarly, connecting an air conditioner and a sensor enables automatic adjustment of airflow strength and direction based on the user’s position within the room.

LG has been at the forefront of smart appliance innovation since 2011 when it added Wi-Fi modules to its home appliances. Continuing its leadership, the company introduced ThinQ UP, leveraging on-device AI chips and appliance-specific operating systems for feature upgrades and peak operational performance. These customer-centric innovations enable conventional appliances to “evolve” into AI-powered ones, improving daily life and solidifying LG’s leadership in AI home solutions.

Finally, LG AI Home offers “Extensive Connectivity” with various global brands’ appliances and IoT devices, working smoothly with all kinds of apps, including calendars, transportation services and online shopping platforms. Users can effortlessly manage their schedules, control household devices and receive real-time updates for a more personalized and connected home experience.

LG is continuing to expand the LG AI Home ecosystem. Through its acquisition of smart home company Athom, LG has ensured that ThinQ ON can connect with over 50,000 devices and IoT appliances and is compatible with more than 1,000 third-party apps. This presents users with a wider range of smart home solutions and services to choose from, giving them the freedom to create the convenient home lifestyle they’ve always dreamed of.

While LG’s AI solutions work in perfect harmony to help realize the company’s Zero Labor Home vision — where household chores are automated, and people have more time to relax and enjoy life — the LG Shield security system vigilantly protects customer data around the clock.

A leader in AI home solutions, LG will continue to push the boundaries of customer-centric innovation. Before the end of this year, LG plans to introduce IoT devices, including motion and light sensors, air quality sensors, temperature and humidity sensors, and smart plugs, all designed to integrate perfectly with ThinQ ON. Customers will be able to purchase an AI Home package featuring these new devices with professional installation by qualified technicians. In addition, ThinQ ON will add support for the Athom ecosystem, allowing users to connect their AI home to an even more extensive array of products and services from other brands.

LG’s Affectionate Intelligence will soon extend beyond the home, connecting different spaces in people’s lives, from cars to commercial environments such as hotels and offices. The company is committed to creating a sustainable future where its intelligent and caring AI technology is always there, working autonomously and proactively to enhance every experience.

Are heat pumps worth it? Debunking 6 common heat pump misconceptions

2024-09-09T14:01:00

(BPT) – Heating and cooling often make up the bulk of utility bills — and the right HVAC system can make a world of difference in both energy bills and home comfort. Recently, heat pumps have become a trending topic in the news for their ability to address both of these needs by providing sustainable home comfort while simultaneously lowering utility bills. But can they really do both?

To answer that question, it’s important to first understand how a heat pump works. When the thermostat temperature is raised and heat is needed, the system pulls heat energy from the ambient air outside the home to heat the home. When air conditioning is desired, it does the opposite, removing heat from inside the home and expelling it to make the home cooler.

Because heat energy is moved around rather than being produced directly, heat pumps can provide more sustainable — and more efficient fuel source alternatives. In addition, recent advancements have made heat pumps far more efficient and more reliable than ever before — even in colder climates. As a result, both federal and local agencies are offering money-saving incentives to help more homeowners switch to heat pumps making it an ideal time to invest in a new heat pump.

But even with these benefits, there are still a lot of myths about how heat pumps work. We’re debunking some of the top heat pump misconceptions.

Myth 1: Heat pumps won’t work in cold climates

Fact: Today’s heat pumps can provide efficient heating in colder climates than ever before

In the past, some older heat pumps could struggle to heat a space efficiently when outdoor temperatures were especially cold. However, today’s heat pumps are engineered to function as the primary heating source in almost all geographic regions, even when temperatures drop below freezing.

The key to providing sufficient heat capacity in especially cold climates is the compressor — the part of a heat pump that moves heat through the system. In the past, heat pumps typically relied on single-speed compressors that functioned like an on/off switch, making it harder for the system to cope with extreme swings in temperature. Today’s more advanced heat pumps leverage variable-speed compressor technology to make incremental adjustments that keep pace with changing temperature more efficiently and more accurately. In addition, many heat pumps rated for cold-climate use now feature vapor injection technology, which further boosts cold-weather heating performance.

Myth 2: Heat pumps don’t really save money

Fact: 90% of homeowners can reduce their utility bills with a heat pump

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that almost all homeowners can expect to see cost savings by switching to an energy-efficient electric heat pump. Today’s heat pump offerings are wide-ranging and can meet the unique needs of almost any home, comfort level, or budget. Innovations in energy efficiency mean less electricity is used to cut costs in most homes. For example, the newly launched YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump can precisely match a home’s changing comfort needs while reducing homeowners’ energy bills by up to 50% compared to less efficient HVAC systems.

Myth 3: Heat pumps are noisy

Fact: Many heat pumps are as quiet as a dishwasher

No one wants to hear excessive noise coming from their HVAC system. Premium heat pumps combine insulated cabinets and low-sound fan designs to deliver whisper-quiet performance when operating in both heating and AC modes.

Myth 4: Temperatures will be inconsistent

Fact: Heat pumps seamlessly move between heating and cooling for consistent comfort

We all want to feel comfortable in our homes. Variable-speed heat pumps automatically move between heating and cooling modes throughout operation to maintain precise temperature and humidity levels. These seamless adjustments provide unmatched home comfort while helping to maximize energy efficiency, especially when compared to single-phase heat pumps that simply turn on and off and provide inconsistent inside temperatures.

Myth 5: Heat pumps require a lot of space

Fact: New compact designs are 30% smaller than traditional equipment

Innovative, new heat pump designs like the YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump offer top-tier efficiency and variable-speed performance in a compact size. The side-discharge design allows the heat pump to be stacked, placed under raised decks, or installed in zero-lot-line neighborhoods.

Myth 6: Installing a new heat pump is expensive

Fact: A wide range of rebates and incentives are available now

A historic number of savings programs are available to help offset the cost of installing a high-efficiency home heat pump. Through a combination of immediate discounts, tax rebates, and utility and manufacturers’ offers, some qualifying homeowners can offset 100% of the cost of installing a heat pump. Additionally, some manufacturers offer simplified financing options with fixed monthly payments to make the investment more manageable.

Learn more about today’s heat pump innovations and cost-saving programs from YORK®: https://www.york.com/residential-equipment/heating-and-cooling/split-system-heat-pumps.

How to repair 4 common types of wall damage

2024-09-09T10:01:00

(BPT) – Maintaining the walls of your home is essential for both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Over time, walls can suffer from various types of damage, whether it’s from everyday wear and tear, accidents or environmental factors. From the more common drywall holes to texture damage, concrete wall cracks and water damage, understanding how to effectively address these issues is crucial for any homeowner. Proper repairs not only restore the appearance of your walls but also prevent further deterioration and potentially costly repairs down the line. Here are practical solutions for repairing different types of wall damage, ensuring your home remains in top condition.

Drywall hole repairs

Drywall hole repairs are among the most common wall repairs homeowners encounter. Many drywall holes can be easily patched with spackling or a drywall patch kit. For the ultimate spackling option, DAP Fast Dry Premium Spackling is a professional-grade spackling compound with a smooth, one-strike application that leaves a rock-solid coat that won’t sink, shrink or crack, offering superior impact resistance and is paint ready in as little as just 15 minutes. Another great solution for repairing drywall holes is the Eclipse Rapid Wall Repair Patch. Whether the damage is small from a picture frame nail or anchor or as large as doorknob damage, simply apply the patch and it’s paint ready immediately. With Eclipse, projects can be completed faster with a permanent, mess-free solution that offers superior impact resistance.

Texture damage repairs

Texture damage repairs are necessary when the wall’s surface texture is compromised, often after fixing cracks or holes. The challenge lies in matching the existing wall texture to create a professional look. For a seamless repair, try DAP’s 2in1 Wall & Ceiling Spray Texture for orange peel, knockdown and popcorn textures. Unlike competitive products on the market, DAP’s aerosol cans feature Aim Tech technology that offers a 60-degree adjustable nozzle angle to easily repair vertical, overhead and hard-to-reach areas with one can, providing users much flexibility when completing projects. Once dry, the wall can be painted to match the rest of the room. A useful tip is to practice on a piece of cardboard before applying the texture to the wall to ensure you achieve the desired consistency and pattern.

Concrete wall repairs

Concrete wall repairs are typically needed when cracks or spalling occur, often due to settling or exposure to the elements. For small cracks, applying concrete repair caulk or epoxy filler can restore the wall’s integrity. Larger cracks may require chiseling out the damaged area and filling it with a concrete patching compound. Spalling, where the surface of the concrete flakes or chips away, involves removing the damaged material and applying a new layer of concrete. To ensure a durable repair, it’s essential to clean the area thoroughly before applying any patching materials and to use a bonding agent to help the new concrete adhere to the old.

Water damage repairs

Water damage repairs are critical not only for aesthetic reasons but also for preventing mold and structural issues. The first step in repairing water-damaged walls is to identify and eliminate the source of the moisture to prevent future problems. Once the area is dry, remove any damaged drywall or plaster and replace it with new material. It’s essential to treat the area for mold or mildew, using appropriate cleaning solutions, before proceeding with repairs. After replacing the damaged sections, apply a stain-blocking primer to prevent water stains from bleeding through the paint. For lasting results, ensure the area is completely dry before painting and consider using moisture-resistant materials in areas prone to dampness.

For more wall repair tips, visit DAP.com.

How to make 3 popular exterior project updates with spray paint

2024-09-06T12:05:04

(BPT) – Easy-to-use Glidden® Master Finish™ spray paint, available at Walmart, allows DIYers to complete projects faster.

Whether homeowners need a backyard refresh ahead of hosting a party or they never completed those outdoor projects planned at the beginning of summer, Glidden® Master Finish™ spray paint has them covered.

“Refinishing furniture with spray paint is one of the easiest DIY projects out there, and the perfect way to quickly get your space ready for weekend hosting,” said Anamaria Cindric, product manager of spray paint, Glidden Paints by PPG. “With Glidden Master Finish, you can refresh your patio furniture that might be looking a little worn from the winter or update color to match a new trend or aesthetic.

Anyone who has spray painted in the past knows that one of the biggest application concerns is the potential for drips and streaks due to over-spraying. Glidden Master Finish has a unique spray pattern that provides the high-coverage and durable finish of spray paint, without the worry of drips or streaks.

Finding the right time to spray paint is also a challenge, with concerns about when the next passing summer storm could impact the project drying outside. With a five-minute dry time, Glidden Master Finish allows DIYers to quickly complete their end-of-season projects in the span of a few hours, depending on project size.

Popular exterior project updates using Master Finish include:

  • Create instant curb appeal — Homeowners can make updates to small exterior items like house numbers, light fixtures and mailboxes. Small upgrades like these can add instant curb appeal to a home’s facade, creating an inviting aesthetic to welcome weekend guests, in as little as two hours with just one can of spray paint. At less than $8 a can, these projects are a low time and budget investment that deliver high.
  • Beautify the backyard — Homeowners can turn flowerpots and beds into colorful backyard focal points by adding a fresh coat of paint or creating a fun design. Available in 22 colors, Glidden Master Finish offers a hue to fit any backyard aesthetic.
  • Take a seat (or two) Summer parties, strong sunshine and summer rains can all give outdoor furniture a beating by this time of year. With a few additional cans of Master Finish and a few more hours to spare, homeowners can revitalize their outdoor furniture. A table and four chairs can be refreshed in just one day using three to six cans of spray paint, depending on the size and number of furniture pieces.

“With a dry time of less than five minutes, Glidden Master Finish is a great option for quick end-of-summer projects, allowing you to refresh your space while still allowing time to enjoy the weekend,” said Cindric.

The best part is that picking up a can of Glidden Master Finish doesn’t add an extra stop to your errands and weekend shopping. This spray paint is available at select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, so homeowners can grab a can on-the-go.

Glidden Master Finish can be used on all surfaces including vinyl, wood, metal, plastic, terracotta and glass. It is available in matte, satin and gloss finishes.

For more spray paint project inspiration as well as application tips, visit Glidden.com or Walmart.com.

8 On-Trend Deck Railing Styles

2024-08-27T09:31:00

(BPT) – Railing is a necessary part of any deck: not just for safety, but also to make an immediate style statement. Here are eight on-trend railing styles sure to enhance any outdoor space:

1. Cable Railing

A modern and popular option among today’s homeowners, cable railing is appreciated for its durability and minimalism. The Trex Signature® X-Series™ features a view-optimizing cable offering that is also easy to maintain.

null

2. Composite Railing

Much like composite decking, composite railing is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maximize curb appeal with minimal upkeep. It won’t warp, rot, peel or splinter and never needs to be sanded, stained or sealed.

null

3. Rod Railing

Sleek, sturdy and undeniably modern, rod rail is a more robust alternative to cable railing and an ideal choice for trendy deck owners looking to add a touch of modern farmhouse flair.

null

4. Cocktail Railing

Popular with entertainers, cocktail railing (also known as “drink rail”) features a flat top rail, perfect for resting things like a morning cup of coffee, a plate of appetizers or potted plants for a pop of color!

null

5. Mesh Infill

Featuring a subtle grid-like design, mesh panels offer a happy medium between vertical and horizontal infill and are great for enhancing views. Corrosion-resistant material ensures that this Trex Signature railing will provide excellent views for years to come without compromising on style.

null

6. Glass Infill

Always in style, glass railing is beloved for being a chic and sophisticated choice that delivers virtually unobstructed, picture-perfect views.

null

7. Mixed Materials

Can’t decide between all the possible railing materials? Go ahead and mix things up! This combination of metal and composite creates a stylish frame for any outdoor oasis.

null

8. Rail Lighting

Looking for some extra oomph? Rail lights are a great add-on to any deck railing, whether you’re looking to enhance safety or simply add some atmospheric “ahhh”mbiance.

null

More deck railing ideas and helpful tools can be found on Trex.com.