Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2024-12-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Is your home drafty? Are your windows sticking or hard to open and close? Do you get fogging between the windowpanes? Energy bills creeping higher and higher? These are all signs your windows may need to be replaced. It’s a major undertaking and can be a confusing one. You’ll find a wide array of styles, materials and more out there. How should you go about choosing the best windows for your home? It’s a combination of form and function, according to Kate Land, vice president — product and innovation at Cornerstone Building Brands — a leading manufacturer of exterior building products in North America, including Simonton^® Windows & Doors.

“First and foremost, new windows need to be functional and easy to use,” said Land. “Beyond that, it’s about quality, durability and aesthetics. Getting it wrong can be a very expensive mistake.”

That’s why it’s crucial to spend some time on the front end of the process thinking about exactly what you want and need from your home’s new openings to the outside world. From functional differences to the overall look to energy efficiency and more, the pros representing Simonton recommend seven things to look for when choosing new windows.

Quality. The Good Housekeeping Seal has been the gold standard of product endorsements for 125 years. Consumers see that designation and can be assured they’re buying the highest quality product they can buy. The Simonton 5500 and 6500 Double Hung, 6200 Sliding and DaylightMax^® Sliding windows have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for their superior quality, exceptional energy efficiency, and robust safety and security features. This endorsement isn’t given out lightly. Products go through hundreds of hours of review and lab testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute to ensure they meet the strict, high standards necessary to earn the Seal. According to Good Housekeeping, Simonton windows earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for their stylish designs, exceptional performance and optimal energy efficiency, backed by a strong track record of reliability.

Window function. How do you want your windows to operate day-to-day? With double hung windows, the bottom and top sash open and tilt in for easy cleaning, making this style ideal for multi-story homes. Casement windows feature easy-to-reach handles that allow you to simply crank open the window. There are also single hung, sliding, awning, bay and bow, mulled and custom combination windows, each offering unique benefits.

Energy efficiency. Look for energy-efficient dual-pane windows, Low-E glass, argon gas and warm-edge spacers to improve your home’s comfort and lower energy costs. Choose ENERGY STAR^® certified windows with advanced glass features for optimal efficiency, solar control and comfort in any climate. ENERGY STAR Most Efficient windows showcase the top-performing certified products with select Simonton window styles with optional triple-pane glass recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2024.

Materials. Should you get wood, fiberglass, aluminum or vinyl windows? Which is best? Vinyl windows have several advantages, making them a standout choice. They’re energy efficient, low maintenance, extremely durable, affordable and come in a variety of sizes, colors, finishes and hardware to match your home’s aesthetic.

Weatherability. Given the unpredictable weather much of the country has been experiencing lately, you need to know your windows can take whatever Mother Nature dishes out. Look for windows with enhanced weather resistance and accelerated drainage like the Simonton 5500 Double Hung windows, which can help whisk water away from windows even in heavy rain. For coastal areas prone to hurricane-force winds, Simonton StormBreaker Plus impact-resistant windows help protect your home against high winds and flying debris.

Security. This usually isn’t the first thing on homeowners’ minds when choosing windows, and many people don’t know options exist. Make sure your windows have passed forced entry resistance tests for added peace of mind. Some windows, including the Simonton DaylightMax and 6200 Sliding, include an AutoSense lock that self-latches when the window is closed. Also, choose impact-resistant laminated glass that helps protect against forced entry.

Curb appeal. Consider your home’s architectural design and choose windows that match its aesthetic. A good place to start is to look at your current windows and choose replacements that mimic that style.

These seven must-haves will guide you to make the right decision about outfitting your home with new windows. Visit Simonton Windows & Doors for inspiration.

2024-11-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – Ready to transform your kitchen and impress your guests this holiday season? Just in time for the family feasts and celebrations, you can give your kitchen a stunning refresh with a simple DIY project — with no mess, minimal effort, and a look that will wow everyone.

Creating a beautiful new kitchen tile backsplash that will make a big impact is easier than you think, if you’ve got the right products to help you make it happen. Here’s how you can get started:

Choose your backsplash tile

With so many options to choose from, it may help you to make a few basic choices before you head to a retailer or showroom so you don’t get overwhelmed. For example, you might want to decide on your overall budget and where exactly you want your backsplash to go (such as how far up the wall). Then try to narrow down things like tile size and type of material you prefer (such as ceramic or porcelain), or whether you want tile with a glossy or matte finish. Measure the entire area that you plan to tile (and measure twice, to check for accuracy) so you’ll be able to figure out how much tile you’ll need.

Then you can start thinking about how your backsplash will fit within your kitchen’s existing decor and color scheme. Do you want the tile to blend in seamlessly, or to stand out as a striking focal point? If you already have a lot of color and pattern throughout your kitchen, a simpler color and design may be more restful to the eyes, like a neutral subway tile. However, if your kitchen counter, cabinets and other features are monochromatic (single color) without many design elements, tile options that introduce more color and/or a decorative pattern will really stand out and make a splash!

Pro tip: Ask for a few sample tiles to bring home before you make your final decision (the more of each type the better, especially if you need several tiles to complete a design). Look at the tiles in your kitchen at different times of day and night, and observe how they appear next to your cabinets, counters and appliances. How the tile complements your existing kitchen decor and lighting is much easier to see by bringing them into that environment — don’t rely just on a photo on your phone when you’re tile shopping.

Make setting simple

Once you’re ready to set your tile, the job will be much easier with an easy-to-use peel-and-stick adhesive mat like SimpleMat^® Tile Setting Mat, which eliminates the need for traditional thin-set mortar or mastic. And because it bonds instantly, there’s no waiting necessary between setting your tile and grouting — so you can get the job done in a single day. The product is available in value-size rolls to make even larger projects easier. How easy is it? Watch this video to see how it’s done: How to Install Tile Using a Tile Setting Mat.

If you’re interested in tackling a larger project like your shower or tub surround, check out this video on How to Tile a Shower Wall Using SimpleMat^®.

Grout with ease using pre-mixed grout

Once your tile is set, you’re ready to grout. One great option is SimpleGrout^® Pre-mixed Grout, which is a ready-to-use, no-mix, no-mess, no-hassle alternative to traditional grout that’s easy to spread and clean. It’s also sanded, and shrink-, crack- and household stain-resistant. Just follow these instructions to complete your project.

To help you visualize your new kitchen project and choose the best color grout to complement or contrast with your chosen tile, try out the handy new Tile & Grout Visualizer App. This can help you choose from 40 designer-inspired grout colors for the best one to go with your tile, so you’ll feel confident that your tile installation will look exactly how you want it — before you start!

Both SimpleMat^® Tile Setting Mat and SimpleGrout^® Pre-mixed Grout are available now at The Home Depot near you. For more information about these and other products to help you make your next DIY project happen, visit CustomBuildingProducts.com.

2024-11-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – In the ever-evolving world of home design, social media influencers play a pivotal role in shaping trends and providing inspiration and guidance for homeowners. One material that has captured the hearts of many of these tastemakers in recent years is composite decking. This innovative product combines aesthetics, durability, sustainability and ease that have made it a favorite among savvy stylists and home improvement experts. Let’s explore why these influencers are so drawn to composite decking.

She’s the Carpenter: Aesthetic Appeal

“I love how natural composite decking looks,” said Ashley Quintero of @shesthecarpenter, who added a composite deck to her Texas home and documented the process for her followers on Instagram. “Through rain and sunshine, the look of the decking remains amazing.”

Emily Made Home: Low Maintenance

“I am done sanding and staining and ready to make the switch to composite decking,” wrote Emily Alexander of @EmilyMadeHome on Instagram. When talking about her decision to use Trex^® composite decking for her backyard makeover, she said, “I love knowing my deck will look like new for decades to come with simple soap and water upkeep.”

Wilker Do’s: Easy Installation

“I’ve installed acres of wood decking and there’s no comparison,” emphasized DIY YouTuber April Wilkerson of Wilker Do’s. “Installing Trex is so much faster and easier because it’s completely consistent and perfect. No warping to struggle with, no knots, cracks or ‘ugly spots’ to deal with.”

The Inspired Room: Durability

Melissa Michaels of @theinspiredroom recently revisited a composite deck she built back in 2018. After years of use and exposure to the outdoor elements, “There was never any warping, painting, chips or splinters to repair,” she posted. “The deck looks just as beautiful today as it did the day it was installed.”

Build and Create Home: Sustainability

“When I found out Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials, that really blew me away,” said Charlee of Build and Create Home. “With deforestation becoming a huge global issue, that one benefit is enough for me to build any future decks with Trex products.”

Social media influencers are drawn to composite decking because of its design versatility, durability, eco-friendliness and hassle-free upkeep. By integrating composite decking into their projects, influencers not only enhance their outdoor spaces but also inspire their followers to make informed choices about home improvement. For more information about the benefits of composite decking, visit Trex.com.

2024-11-25T08:03:00

(BPT) – A properly functioning HVAC system is crucial to ensure a warm, comfortable home this winter. For homeowners with an older heating system, the question of repair or replace is often top of mind as the temperatures drop.

Arriving at the right answer for your home often requires the support of a trained HVAC contractor. But there are several questions you can ask as you consider the reliability of your aging home comfort system.

No one wants to be left in the cold this winter — or left with an empty wallet. The heating and cooling experts at YORK^® offer these guidelines to help homeowners evaluate their options and find out which is the best long-term value for you.

When you can still repair

There may be instances when replacing the heating system isn’t necessary. Some indications that your system may be worth repairing can include:

• It’s less than 10 years old and/or is a high-quality, energy-efficient model.
• The repair is still covered under warranty.
• The out-of-pocket cost of the repair will be far less than the cost of replacement.
• Repairing the problem means that the specific issue isn’t likely to reoccur throughout the system’s remaining lifespan.
• Other HVAC components, such as the ductwork, electrical wiring and thermostat, are all in good working condition.

When it’s time to replace

It can be much easier to recognize signs that it’s time to replace a worn-out heating system, including:

• A system that is 10 or more years old.
• Frequent and repeated repairs that add up to be very costly.
• Even after repairs and/or maintenance, the system still doesn’t keep your home comfortable.
• Very high utility bills. Modern heating systems are significantly more energy-efficient than older units.
• A desire to take advantage of widespread tax incentive programs, as well as utility and manufacturers’ rebates, to reduce upfront costs.

Replacing a heating system

Many homeowners are surprised to learn a new heating system can improve the comfort of their home and help save significant money on utility costs over the long run. Heat pumps, in particular, are a smart choice for many homeowners — even if a gas furnace is currently in place. Today’s high-efficiency heat pumps use less electricity to cut heating costs and are very efficient even in cold climates. For example, the YORK^® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump can reduce the average energy bill by as much as 50% compared to less efficient HVAC systems. Plus, the YORK^® HH8 heat pump is equipped with variable speed technology that allows it to precisely match desired temperature settings and provide a more comfortable home.

A historic level of HVAC savings programs are available to help off-set the cost of installing a high-efficiency heat pump. Through a combination of tax rebates and utility and manufacturers’ offers, qualifying homeowners can save up to 100% of the cost to install some heat pumps. Additionally, some manufacturers offer simplified financing options with fixed monthly payments to make the investment of a heat pump more manageable than paying out-of-pocket repair costs on an existing heating system.

To learn more about today’s heat pump innovations and cost-saving programs, visit YORK^® at: york.com/residential-equipment/heating-and-cooling/split-system-heat-pumps.

2024-11-24T23:01:00

(BPT) – Imagine sitting back and actually enjoying the holiday bustle knowing the gifts for everyone on your list are bought, wrapped and hidden away. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals right around the corner, you could have your shopping done in a snap, and save money, too.

But, finding inspiration for those gifts is a little tricky. Good news! Professional landscape contractor, author, TV host of “I Hate My Yard” and STIHL spokesperson Sara Bendrick can help with that. Here are Sara’s best gift ideas for the gardener or lawn enthusiast in your life.

Get to pruning!

Late fall and early winter is the time to prune trees and bushes while they are dormant. The STIHL GTA 26 is a versatile battery-powered garden pruner that offers high cutting performance, power and precision in a lightweight handheld tool. Whether it’s cutting back small to mid-sized tree branches, pruning hedges, cutting away errant Christmas tree branches or trimming the trunk to fit in your tree stand, this is a great tool for the job.

For that garden of the month look

If you have friends or family who want to get into gardening, or just enjoy the fun of getting a package in the mail every month, check out Plantfix’s monthly subscription boxes. These are kits that contain seed packs, soil, planters or mini greenhouses, planting and care instructions and more. Choose a home garden theme, which lets you grow your own food with herb and vegetable seeds, or an ornamental garden theme, which comes with seeds for houseplants, succulents and more. Hint: These are great for teens, too.

Keep it clean and tidy

During the winter months, many gardeners bring their gardening inside their greenhouses, basements and porches for projects like repotting plants or starting seeds. If you’ve done it, you know it makes a mess, and the STIHL SEA 20 battery-powered, handheld vacuum is the perfect, lightweight clean-up tool. Hint: this is also a great tool to vac around the base of your Christmas tree to clean up those needles.

Embrace nature in your garden

Looking for the perfect gift for a gardening enthusiast who loves birds? Consider a bird feeder with a built-in camera! This innovative device not only attracts a variety of birds to your garden, enhancing the natural beauty and biodiversity of your outdoor space, but also captures stunning close-up photos and videos of the birds in action.

Achieve a prize-winning garden

Whether you’re trimming ornamental plants or small shrubs, the STIHL HSA 26 battery-powered garden shears deliver unparalleled precision in a lightweight package. These are perfect for garden lovers who appreciate artistry and desire a neatly trimmed, prize-winning garden look. They’re lightweight, too, and come with two interchangeable blades included, so you can trim those shrubs like an artist.

The lawn and garden lovers on your list will be delighted to find these gifts wrapped up under the tree. Need more inspiration? Find more great gift ideas from the pros in the STIHL Gift Guide.

2024-11-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – Looking to create unique, heartfelt woodworking gifts for your friends and family this holiday season? With Minwax^®, crafting personalized gifts and decorations is easier than you think! Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, Minwax^® makes it simple to elevate your holiday celebrations with its easy-to-use products.

Minwax^® offers a complete lineup of wood finishing products for all your holiday projects, including stains, sealers and wood care solutions. Minwax^® stains enhance the natural beauty of wood, ensuring you achieve the perfect look, every time. With 240+ colors available in oil- and water-based finishes, you can easily find the perfect shade for your holiday décor and gifting projects.

To get you started, check out these fun projects from five top DIY-ers to help you create memorable keepsakes for your loved ones and decor that captures the spirit of the season.

1. Wooden Christmas trees to welcome the season

To make simple yet elegant holiday decorations that bring a festive touch to your home, Jenna Smith (@DIYwithJenna) has created this Pinterest-inspired project to put your home in the holiday mood — or to give as gifts. Smith describes herself as a “maker of pretty things,” from beautiful decor to handcrafted wreaths and more.

For this project, you’ll craft a Christmas tree from 2×4″ pine wood planks, using Minwax^® Oil-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to prepare the wood, followed by Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Penetrating Oil-Based Wood Stain in Espresso for rich color (or any stain color of your choosing). Seal your creation with Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Topcoat for lasting protection and apply each layer smoothly with a Purdy^® brush. You’ll also need a drill and screws to assemble the pieces.

If you’re planning to set your tree outdoors, you should replace the Polycrylic^® Topcoat with Minwax^® Indoor/Outdoor Helmsman^® Spar Urethane for better protection. Your finished piece can beautifully adorn your front porch or entryway to greet holiday guests or bring seasonal charm to any space. For an extra-festive touch, embellish your tree with greenery like spruce boughs, holly or pinecones.

2. DIY candle holders for tablescapes or gifts

Perfect for dressing up your holiday table or gifting to someone special, Lucia Mallea (@luciamallea) shares her playful and colorful candle holders created from wooden cubes. “They’ll make the most adorable holiday gifts,” said Mallea, a digital creator, Latina artist and maker from Miami, Florida.

To create Mallea’s candle holders, you’ll need wooden cubes, a drill and Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-based Stain, either Solid or Semi-Transparent, in three colors of your choice. Mallea chose Petal Pink, Juniper Mist and Lemon for her candle holders — a cheerful palette. You’ll also need Minwax^® Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner and Polycrylic^® Max.

For a professional-looking finish, follow these simple steps:

• Prepare the wood: Sand the wooden cubes with medium- and fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface. Apply the Minwax^® Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner, especially if you’re using soft or porous wood, to ensure an even stain application.
• Apply wood stain: Choose your preferred stain colors and test on a hidden spot or a scrap piece of wood to confirm the look. Apply the stain evenly on each cube to bring out the desired color.
• Add a protective finish: After the stain has dried, apply a clear protective coat using Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Max to seal and protect your work from water, chemicals and wear. Use a light “tip-off” technique with the brush for a smooth, professional finish.

Once stained and sealed, Mallea adds candles to the holders and loves displaying them on her coffee table for a cozy holiday vibe. These candle holders also make the perfect DIY holiday gift — simply wrap them in tissue paper and add a bow!

3. Indoor planters for the plant-lovers in your life

These small planters are a great way to showcase your creativity. Mary Lindloff (@the_handcrafted_haven) draws on her experience with furniture flips and room makeovers for this giftable project anyone can make. Lindloff created two distinct planters to gift, each tailored to the aesthetic of the recipient — one minimalist design in True Black and Pure White, and a colorful version in Violet and Simply White — using Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-Based Semi-Transparent Color Stain.

To get started, you’ll need oak boards, a miter saw, an orbital sander, a nail gun and a tape measure, along with a Purdy^® XL Paint Brush. Additionally, you may need other Minwax^® products such as Stainable Wood Filler (if necessary), Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner and Polycrylic^® Max.

Lindloff showcases her finished planters on a shelf in her living room, where she then adds lush plants to complete the display. “The planters can be customized for the plant-lovers in your life depending on their preferred styles, whether colorful, modern or traditional, and their color preferences,” Lindloff said.

4. Festive peppermint swirl coasters are fun and functional

Influencer and DIY maven Kara Whitten (@kailochic) loves creating projects with a pop of festive color. This holiday season, she’s crafting stylish and functional peppermint swirl coasters as gifts. Stained with Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-Based Color Stain in Crimson (Solid), Petal Pink (Semi-Transparent), Hunter Green (Semi-Transparent) and Simply White (Solid), these coasters capture the classic peppermint swirl look — perfect for resting a chilled glass of eggnog or a warm mug of cocoa.

Amber Kemp-Gerstel of DIY blog Damask Love knows there’s a lot to raise a glass to during the holidays and into the new year. Her DIY take on a customized wooden wine gift box begins with an unfinished wood box, easily sourced online, which she stains with Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Color Series in Royal Mahogany (semi-transparent for a rich, festive hue that perfectly embraces the spirit of the season). Sealed with Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Max crystal-clear topcoat to preserve its beauty, Amber completes her gift with a personalized wine bottle label and a holiday bow, making it a truly personal keepsake.

For more inspiration, visit Minwax.com and check out their Holiday Gift Guide at Minwax.com/en/gift-guides. You’ll find a range of projects and gifts that are perfect for the season. Happy DIYing!

2024-11-22T13:01:00

(BPT) – Romulo “Romy” Camargo

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 (Retired)

“Freedom and security are precious gifts that we, as Americans, should never take for granted. We must do all we can to extend our hand in times of need to those who willingly sacrifice each day to provide that freedom and security. While we can never do enough to show gratitude to our nation’s defenders, we can always do a little more.”

— Gary Sinise

Established in 2011 by actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise, the Gary Sinise Foundation honors and supports military service members, first responders, and their families. Just one of its many initiatives, the R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) Program provides mortgage-free, specially adapted smart homes for our nation’s severely wounded heroes.

Over the past several years, Daltile has had the privilege of teaming up with this wonderful foundation. Once again in 2024, Daltile had the honor of donating tile for these homes to help deserving heroes.

“What an organization the Gary Sinise Foundation and R.I.S.E. teams are! Doing so much to honor our heroes in the way they deserve to be honored,” said Paij Thorn-Brooks, vice president of marketing for Daltile. “This is a non-profit organization filled with people of integrity, who truly love our service members, first responders, and their families well. Daltile is very grateful for the opportunity to help honor and serve our heroes and their families through this program.”

Thorn-Brooks continued, “These fully customized homes make a tremendous difference in the lives of the men and women who have served, given so much on behalf of their country, and who continue to persevere against physical challenges. It is a great feeling to see the joy these heroes experience when they enter their new homes for the first time.”

Meet a few (of the many) heroes thriving in their new specially adapted, forever homes:

Bryan Anderson

U.S. Army Sergeant (Retired)

Shane Parsons

U.S. Army Sergeant (Retired)

Jose Armenta

U.S. Marine Corps Corporal (Retired)

For more information on the Gary Sinise Foundation or to donate toward future home builds, please visit: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/rise.

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your home is ready to help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. From preventing frozen pipes to optimizing heating costs, proactive steps can help safeguard your property and well-being.

“A system tune-up at the beginning of the cold weather season can prevent problems and expensive repairs as the temperatures get more extreme later in the winter,” says Jon Ryan, president of Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating based in Minnesota and Honeywell Home HVAC customer. “We’ve been servicing homes for over 70 years — my team has seen it all — and we know that being proactive with system maintenance is one of the best things a homeowner can do to keep their systems running smooth and the home comfortable.”

To prepare your home for the cold, consider these tips:

Schedule a Pro to Check the HVAC System

Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your system to keep it at peak performance. An inspection can check system performance, air filters, and identify indoor air quality opportunities. Professionals also can check the system for harmful cracks, which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide (CO) seeping into the home.

“Have your heating system serviced every year,” suggests Ryan. “As temperatures drop, the use of fuel-burning heaters increases as people try to stay warm, and winter can bring a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning — so be sure your professional tests for cracks in the heating unit.”

Also be sure your utility room and home are properly outfitted with CO alarms.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

By learning your home’s heating trends and adjusting temperatures accordingly, smart thermostats can ensure your home stays comfortable and can help you optimize your energy consumption. For example, during winter, smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat can automatically lower temperatures when you’re away and increase them as you return, creating a cozy atmosphere without wasting energy through Geofencing technology. Thermostats also offer programmable features that let you effortlessly adjust temperatures based on your schedule. By lowering your thermostat just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day, you can potentially cut heating costs by 10% annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, many utilities offer rewards for enrolling in demand response programs that can reduce energy consumption during peak times.

Change Air Filters

Regularly replacing your air filters is a proven way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.

Ryan said: “We get a lot of calls about systems not working properly, and in fact the issue was a result of a dirty air filter.”

Clean air filters also help the overall health of your heating system and allow for better air flow, reducing the stress on your home’s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency. Inspect your filter once a month for signs of dirt or dust buildup.

Protect Your Pipes

Following a cold snap, pipes in the home prone to freezing (i.e., pipes on outside walls, in the basement, or crawl spaces), could burst following the water expansion. As the water melts, it could create costly water damage and disruptions. To help protect your home, cover pipes with insulation and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. For added protection, consider installing a First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector in areas like basements, laundry rooms and utility closets to effectively detect winter leaks or freezing temperatures and help prevent home damage. Talk to a professional plumber about installing an automatic shutoff valve that can turn off the water to the whole home in case of a leak.

Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs. To prevent heat loss, inspect the areas around your windows and doors for gaps. Use weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps and consider applying caulk to larger openings. For extra insulation, install thermal curtains or blinds. By blocking cold air from entering your home, you’ll enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.

“Just a few easy steps can help make sure your family stays cozy and your home is protected from the havoc winter weather can wreak,” said Ryan.

For more winter home preparation tips or to find an HVAC professional visit Honeywellhome.com.

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is just around the corner. Are you prepared to weather potential power outages?

According to data from Climate Central, 80 percent of all major U.S. power outages reported from 2000 to 2023 were caused by weather. Of those weather-related events, 23 percent were specifically caused by winter storms. The cold temperatures, winds and ice can disrupt or damage a single home’s electrical and even the power grid for a whole neighborhood.

Power outages aren’t just inconvenient. They can be dangerous. If your primary source of heat is electric, a power outage can lead to frozen pipes and structural damage. A power outage can even pose a safety risk to your family if you can’t heat your home.

You can’t control the weather. However, you can prepare yourself for winter emergencies with an electric backup power generator.

A reliable source of power in your time of need

You may be familiar with traditional gas-powered generators. While these backups do provide power during emergencies, they can pose more risks than benefits.

Gas generators cannot be used indoors because they give off deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Also, you’ll need to keep gas on hand, which poses a fire risk to your home. Even if you have safely stored gas, you may run out, as power outages can last from a few hours to a few days.

Luckily, gas-powered generators aren’t the only option. Electric-based generators offer a safer, more reliable power source for homeowners when they need it most.

Whether battery or solar-powered, electric generators offer homeowners a safe, efficient and sustainable solution for whole-home power during winter emergencies. Unlike their gas counterparts, electric generators don’t give off poisonous fumes, so they can be safely used indoors.

Without the need for gas, an electric-based power backup can provide continuous, uninterrupted power without the risk of running out of fuel during extended outages. Some electric generators, like the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, are even solar-powered, offering a sustainable, green solution for whole-home power needs.

Power you can count on

Jackery, a leader in innovative solar generators and green off-grid energy solutions, knows how important it is to have trusted home backup power. To that end, the company designed the 5000 Plus to help people stay connected, powered and secured, even in the most difficult and unexpected circumstances.

The powerful, portable and compact electric generator is the lightest in its class, offering homeowners operating convenience. This generator operates quietly and requires zero maintenance, making it an ideal option for indoor use and far safer than traditional gas generators, especially during extreme weather conditions.

When paired with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch (STS), a single 5000 Plus delivers up to 7200W of power. Thanks to its modular design, you can extend the power capacity to fit your needs. When connected to a second unit, users can get up to 14,400W, making it more than sufficient to power a home in the most unpredictable situation.

Since the 5000 Plus is equipped with dual-voltage solar charging, you have options. You can recharge the battery through a high-voltage rooftop solar system or with the company’s portable solar panels. You’ll never run out of fuel or be forced to brave the weather to refuel your generator.

Stay powered all winter long

This winter, keeping your home safe and comfortable, even during severe weather, has never been easier. By prioritizing preparedness and safety with an electric, solar-powered generator, you’re investing in your family’s well-being and your own peace of mind during serious winter storms.

To learn more about electric-based power backups and solar power, visit Jackery.com.

2024-11-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – With multifamily construction projects reaching as high as $700 per square foot this year, effective cost planning is essential for any build. Identifying affordable, yet functional products and services across kitchen and bath spaces is an effective way for contractors to reduce excess spending. Other factors to consider when developing a multifamily build are high-quality materials and reliable warranty programs. See below for helpful tips and solutions contractors and professionals alike can take into action when embarking on a new project.

Quality and Durability

Selecting quality materials will set up contractors for success in their next project. Quality can dictate overall durability, longevity and in general, less maintenance. Lower quality materials can depreciate at a faster pace and oftentimes require more repairs. Decreasing duplicative spending over a material’s life will ultimately create savings that can be leveraged elsewhere.

A cost-effective material contractors often rely on for construction projects is stainless steel. This material is highly valued for its strength and durability, corrosion resistance, minimal maintenance and aesthetic appeal, making it a reliable choice for commercial-type projects. In multifamily units, stainless steel could be used for interior design and aesthetic features like in railings and handrails, elevator doors and cabins, and even fixtures.

Ceramics are another highly durable material often used in construction due to their reliable properties. This is a refractory material, meaning it’s strong enough to withstand high pressures and most chemical compounds, hence why they’re commonly used in places where materials need to retain their integrity, like in the bathroom. Ceramics are great in the bath because they have a low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning they don’t expand or contract much with temperature changes. This makes them stable and reduces the risk of cracking in these types of environments.

A seamless way to incorporate ceramics in multifamily projects is in fixtures within the bathroom. Ceramic valves are almost leak-proof and rarely need repairs, whereas ball valves are more prone to leakage and the ball itself might need to be replaced over time. Brands like Peerless^® Faucet do a great job at offering high-quality, cost-efficient bath fixtures that not only look good but are incredibly functional. The brand offers ceramic valves across all fixtures, so no matter what contractors choose, they’re always guaranteed quality and durability.

Reliable Warranty and Incentive Programs

When beginning a new project, contractors should ensure the products they select have reliable warranties that will repair or replace (free of charge) parts if ever defective. Reliable warranty programs are essential in construction projects like multifamily because they provide a safeguard for financial investment against potential defects or failures in products and materials, while also enhancing trust between suppliers, builders and clients. In fact, many manufacturers also offer extended warranty terms and have local representatives available who can intervene on your behalf in case of any issues, which in turn, can prevent project delays.

In addition, in many states, there are programs and cost-efficient incentives available to multifamily professionals through tax breaks or direct funding. Building developers may be able to access things like new energy efficient home credits, commercial building deductions and low-income community bonus credit programs. Professionals can find available programs and incentives like these in their state by visiting www.energystar.gov/homesavings or www.dsireusa.org (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency).

Ease of Installation and Functionality

With labor accounting for 40-50% of construction project costs, it’s crucial for contractors to purchase products that are easy to install and maintain. Easy-to-install products save time, allowing projects to stay on schedule and within budget, while simplifying the work for laborers, potentially reducing the need for specialized skills. Products that are easy to maintain also enhance the long-term value of the project by lowering maintenance costs and reducing downtime for repairs, ensuring the structure remains functional and durable with minimal disruptions over its lifespan.

Peerless^® designs user-friendly products that make installation a breeze while also allowing for flexibility. For example, in the bath, the Multichoice Universal Valve offers the ability to update shower fixtures without altering the plumbing behind the wall. It also pairs with all shower trims across the Delta Faucet Company portfolio if updating them is ever desired.

Putting It into Action

Cost planning is a critical component for a successful multifamily project. Trade professionals can select high-quality materials to create savings not only for contractors but for future homeowners. Additionally, identifying plumbing that’s easy to install and modify will future-proof the build and allow tenants the ability to renovate or swap fixtures as they’d like. Contractors should also ensure that the brands they are selecting are backed with extensive warranties to protect their investment and the livelihoods of those who will be living in the finished units. Professionals should give these cost-effective products and services a gander for their next tasks; cross-reference plans and you’re sure to identify savings for your next multifamily or commercial project.