Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

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.

2024-11-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are full of fun, festive get-togethers, magical moments with friends and family — and often, a lengthy holiday home prep list. With celebrations just around the corner, you may want to prep your home for overnight guests to help you feel your best about hosting your loved ones this season.

What room most needs your attention? According to a survey conducted by Delta Faucet, a bathroom refresh is the project that is the most pesky for people to complete. While a full reno is unlikely, it’s easy to complete a few simple swaps that instantly transform the look and function of your bathroom just in time for seasonal celebrations.

Here are three ideas for upgrading your bathroom that are sure to impress your guests — all with easy DIY installation.

1. Upgrade your bathroom faucet

Trouble keeping your bathroom sink clean? This chore can be especially challenging when entertaining and hosting guests. One simple solution is installing the Delta® Stryke® Pull-Down Bathroom Faucet, which makes quick work of cleaning toothpaste, dirt and small debris from your sink with a nimble pull-down spray wand. The Lumicoat^® Finish is guaranteed to resist water spots and mineral buildup, so you can easily wipe it clean without the need for cleaners or chemicals. You’ll also appreciate this faucet’s sleek and stylish look, with subtly upturned spout and handles.

Find peace of mind knowing that this faucet is ADA compliant for the benefit of all your guests, and the Worry-Free Drain Catch is a simple solution to the common problem of pills, jewelry or other valuables washing down the drain.

2. Power your shower

Provide an outstanding shower experience and keep your shower in pristine condition with the versatile Delta^® 6-Setting Hand Shower with Cleaning Spray. Bathroom messes have never been easier to tackle thanks to the Delta^® ProClean™ Spray, which cleans shower surfaces at least two times faster than standard sprays, powering off soap scum and other common shower messes. The focused, wide fan spray allows you to effortlessly clean hard-to-reach places without even stepping foot in the shower.

The six spray settings include: ProClean™ spray, Full spray, Full spray with Massage, Massage spray, Shampoo Rinse spray and Pause. The Pause setting gives you ample space for shaving, lathering and other shower tasks, then easily restarts at the water temperature where you left off, helping to conserve water — and avoid depleting your hot water supply when you have multiple guests staying in your home. WaterSense^® labeled hand showers also use at least 20% less water than the industry standard, helping you save water without compromising performance.

While other products may gather unsightly mineral buildup over time, this shower head’s soft rubber Touch-Clean^® spray holes allow any mineral residue to simply be wiped away for an instantly refreshed look — with no need for soaking or chemical cleaners.

Best yet, this is an incredibly easy DIY installation you can do in minutes, with no tools required.

3. Improve the shower experience

A quality water filter can make all the difference. With the Delta^® Clarifi™ Shower Filter Attachment you can instantly elevate your shower experience. The shower filter attachment has been third-party tested and proven to reduce chlorine and impurities in your shower water that may cause dry skin or hair. Simply attach the filter between your current shower head and supply line, and the unique filter design will get to work, improving the water you and your guests shower with every day. Your loved ones will appreciate this simple but impactful shower enhancement!

Filters require replacing every six months, but replacements take less than two minutes. You can make that task even easier by connecting to the DFC@Home™ app to be notified when it’s time to change filters.

With these three DIY bathroom projects, you can quickly take your guests’ experience to the next level — while also making it easier to keep your bathroom looking its best, all season long.

2024-11-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is a time for joy and relaxation, and the last thing you want to worry about is your home while you’re away. To ensure a worry-free trip, it’s essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your property and enjoy peace of mind.

Prioritize your home security

If you’ve been considering installing security cameras but haven’t gotten around to it, now is the perfect time to act. Investing in home security cameras will help keep you and your loved ones safe, whether you’re traveling far or staying close to home this season.

There are many innovative and affordable home security solutions available that seamlessly blend into your décor. One of our favorites is the Blink Mini 2, a plug-in smart security camera with exceptional value. Its weather-resistant design makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use (with the addition of a weather-resistant power adapter sold separately), making it ideal for winter. The compact camera offers high-resolution video, a wide field of view and an LED spotlight for night view in color so you are able to monitor your home during the day or night.

Stay connected for peace of mind

To stay informed about who’s at the door, the Blink Video Doorbell allows you to keep a watchful eye from anywhere. Whether you’re traveling for the holidays or at home preparing for gatherings, this smart doorbell offers 1080p HD video both day and night, two-way audio, customizable motion alerts and privacy settings. While you’re away, you can easily manage deliveries and welcome guests, and when you’re home, it serves as an extra set of eyes, ensuring you never miss a moment while multitasking and getting ready for holiday festivities.

Illuminate your property

Lighting can deter unwanted visitors at night. The Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera features motion-triggered LED lighting, up to two years of battery life, wire-free install and real-time alerts. With HD day and infrared night video, motion detection, two-way audio and more, you can ensure that what matters most is protected around the clock.

For added security, consider Amazon smart lights. With the help of Alexa Routines, you can schedule the lights inside to turn on and off while you’re hundreds of miles away, creating the illusion that someone is home. If you’re staying local and hosting at home this season, guests always appreciate a little extra light walking up a dimly lit driveway!

Simplify your home security

Keeping your home secure has never been easier with smart home devices. The Blink Home Monitor app puts control at your fingertips, allowing you to monitor your entire security setup right from your smartphone. With multi-system support and simple setup, you can effortlessly manage multiple Blink cameras within one single app. Receive alerts about what matters most, day or night, no matter where you are. With Blink, staying connected to your home is just a tap away.

Be discreet about your travel plans

While sharing your vacation in real-time can be tempting, it can inadvertently make your home a target for unwanted visitors. Instead, inform a few trusted people — like a close neighbor or family member — about your plans in person or by phone. They can help keep an eye on your home and packages. Consider asking the post office to hold your mail while you’re away or have someone you trust pick it up for you.

With multi-system support, you can use Blink to watch your home, vacation home or business all at the same time — allowing you to enjoy worry-free travel this holiday season.

Learn more at BlinkForHome.com.

2024-11-12T02:01:00

(BPT) – Have you ever walked through a rustic, stone piazza in Italy — or dreamed of it — and wished you could bring a little of that look into your own home? You can. It’s a new design trend, using weathered stone and brick, which are normally associated with outdoor spaces, in your interior designs, creating warmth, timeless beauty and even a bit of drama in your home.

But stone and brick are heavy, oftentimes requiring structural reinforcements when using them in design. The solution? Manufactured stone veneer, or MSV. Its lightweight composition simplifies installation without the need for those additional structural reinforcements. Simply put, it’s easier to use and gives the same look, feel and warmth.

What is MSV? It’s a concrete mixture that is hand-colored with iron oxide pigments and cast in flexible molds taken from natural stone or traditional brick. Use it for focal points like exterior entrances, interior foyers, mudrooms, fireplaces, walls or kitchen backsplashes.

MSV innovations like those from Westlake Royal Building Products help bring timeless architectural features like archways, fireplaces and textured accent walls into homes. You can use it outside, too, to bring character to patios and outdoor entertaining areas. Stone and brick veneer integrates well with a variety of other materials, adding an organic component that enhances both interiors and exteriors.

Here are some ways to add the timeless look of stone, brick and wood to your interior designs.

Ancient inspiration. Infuse your home with Italian amorè! Turn your family room into an Italian grotto or your bathroom into an elegant spa with LoreioBrick, by Eldorado Stone. This linear brick veneer was inspired by ancient Roman architecture and lends a timeless air to the space. Pair it with beamed ceilings, wrought-iron fixtures and candles and you’ve got a modern bathroom with its roots in antiquity. Imagine earthy tones and neutral colors, blending classical and modern design.

The warmth of wood. Transform your den or family room into a contemporary lodge with Rivenwood, also by Eldorado Stone. Inspired by slender lengths of saw-cut barnwood, it’s rustic modern, with authentic wood details like nails, breaks and knots. It lends the feel of wide, open spaces, luxury ranch life and relaxing in front of the fire at the end of a long ride through the countryside.

A mosaic of color. Country Ledgestone by Cultured Stone is ideal for creating a textural mosaic around a fireplace or on an accent wall. Think “organic modernism” that combines organic textures and nature-inspired elements with minimalist design to create warm, relaxed spaces. The look is long and sleek, offering a relaxing, yet upscale feel to your indoor spaces.

A whisper of winter. Dutch Quality Stone’s Handformed Brick is a new, tumbled brick veneer. It brings to life old world craftsmanship, with every brick having a unique texture and artisanal charm. The attention to detail adds a rich sense of lineage to the look of your new or renovated space. Handformed Brick is available in three colorways, including the new Snowpack color that was inspired by the crisp, clean essence of freshly fallen snow.

The look of brick, stone and wood will infuse your walls with color, warmth and life, evoking images of ancient Italy, the open frontier or even a blanket of new snow.

2024-11-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is coming — are you and your home ready to face the frosty weather? With energy costs on the rise, many Americans have been feeling the pinch and are actively searching for energy-saving tips to tighten their budgets, according to a survey from Payless Power. As the chill sets in, now is the perfect time to prep your house for the season ahead. Whether it’s blocking sneaky drafts or fending off wood rot, these tips will help you keep the cold at bay and your home cozy and functional all winter long.

Seal Gaps

Drafts and air leaks around your home can significantly increase heating costs and make it harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Stay warm by sealing gaps in walls, around windows and in cavities with the easy-to-use, 20-ounce, Wall & Cavity Foam can from DAP. This foam is ideal for touch-ups, repairs and hard-to-reach spaces, providing an airtight seal that boosts energy efficiency and helps keep the cold out all season.

Install Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is another simple yet effective way to prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping, reducing drafts and lowering your heating bills. Choose the right type of weatherstripping, such as adhesive-backed foam or V-strip, and replace any worn or damaged seals to ensure a snug fit. This can make a significant difference in keeping your home warm and comfortable throughout the colder months.

Inspect and Repair Wood Rot

Wood rot can severely weaken your home’s structure, especially in the colder months when moisture and freezing temperatures are most prevalent. Before winter sets in, thoroughly inspect exterior wooden surfaces such as decks, window frames and doors for any signs of decay. If wood rot is present, it’s essential to replace the damaged wood and apply a high-quality preservative to protect against further deterioration. DAP’s Plastic Wood™ Wood Rot Repair Kit is a great option because it provides a fast-drying wood hardener that strengthens soft, damaged areas and a heavy-duty epoxy filler with a self-mixing nozzle that resists shrinking and cracking.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics or exterior walls, are at risk of freezing. Pipe insulation is a quick and easy way to protect your plumbing from the cold, preventing potential bursts that could cause flooding and water damage.

Clean Your Gutters and Inspect Your Roof

Gutters play a crucial role in keeping your home dry by channeling rain and snow away from your roof, preventing water from seeping in and causing damage. Clearing out dead leaves and debris helps avoid ice dams, gutter detachment and overflow issues. While you’re at it, check your roof for any accumulated branches or debris, and inspect for missing or damaged shingles that may need replacement.

By tackling these winterization projects, you can protect your home from the harsh effects of winter while saving on energy costs. Don’t wait for the first snowfall — get started today and make sure your home is ready to withstand whatever the season throws your way! For more tips and products to winterize your home, visit DAP.com.

2024-11-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – A thoughtfully designed interior can enhance well-being by harmonizing elements that support us physically, encourage mindfulness, and elevate the overall sensory experience. Among these essentials, clean and refreshing drinking water is foundational in cultivating a health-focused kitchen space.

A multisensory haven

Designing for wellness goes far beyond visual aesthetics; it’s about engaging all the senses. A well-balanced space can both soothe and ignite the senses, elevating how the environment is experienced every day.

At the heart of this concept lies serenity, which can be brought to life through thoughtfully curated additions to a space. Sound-dampening technology or nature-inspired background sounds, like flowing water or rainfall, offer peace. Further, one can enhance the sense of smell through scent diffusers, heighten tactile comfort with natural textiles, and delight taste through innovative kitchen technology. Experience water’s most perfect state with the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System: as refreshing as it is revitalizing.

By thoughtfully engaging all five senses, the kitchen transforms into a sanctuary that nurtures mindfulness and overall well-being.

Inspired technology

Technology is at the forefront of in-home wellness, enabling innovations that empower homeowners to live more efficiently and enjoyably. From air purifiers that remove airborne contaminants to smart lighting that can help regulate sleep cycles or reduce eye strain, there are multiple ways to boost health through technology.

Water is the cornerstone of personal wellness. It offers benefits through spa-quality shower and bath systems, as well as essential hydration for our bodies. The Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System ensures the highest quality of drinking water by reducing over 90 contaminants with its sophisticated six-stage filtration process. Compact and efficient, it offers a luxurious hydration experience in the convenience of your home kitchen.

Mindful minimalism

A minimalist design approach balances both form and function, intentionally using space to promote tranquility and reduce visual clutter, essential qualities for a serene kitchen. With the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System, you can achieve a clean aesthetic, saving space by 60% compared to traditional tanked systems, underscoring the Brizo^® brand’s commitment to luxurious, purposeful design.

Incorporating wellness into kitchen design not only enhances daily living, but also brings a sense of luxury and intentionality to the home. By blending advanced technology, minimalist aesthetics, and multisensory experiences, Brizo helps create spaces that nurture both body and mind. Whether through the refreshing purity of the Pristive™ Tankless Reverse Osmosis System or the serene ambience of a well-curated interior, a Brizo kitchen is more than just functional — it’s an invitation to experience the ultimate in wellness-centered luxury.

2024-10-31T01:01:00

(BPT) – Because you love your home, you want to make your outdoor spaces just as comfortable and unique as the ones you’ve created indoors. Whether you dream of entertaining or relaxing, you want to make memories in beautiful outdoor areas curated to reflect your tastes and durable enough to meet your demands.

From hosting outdoor dinner parties to seeking solace in your own garden sanctuary, here are four essentials that will help you create the ultimate oasis in your backyard.

1. Quality Kitchen Tools to Cook Outdoors Like a Pro

For those who love to entertain or simply enjoy cooking outdoors, high-quality outdoor cooking appliances are a game-changer. Stainless outdoor grills, griddles, smokers and pizza ovens provide a top-notch cooking experience and add a touch of style to your outdoor space.

Make sure to invest in appliances that are designed to stand the test of time while providing exceptional performance, like those from Belgard’s Elements line. With the right outdoor kitchen tools, you can confidently look forward to many years ahead of whipping up tasty meals al fresco in your beautiful backyard.

2. Shade and Privacy to Customize Your Space

Your outdoor space should feel like an extension of your home. One way you can recreate the privacy of your indoor spaces outside is with privacy screens and outdoor curtains. Available in a variety of designs and material options, you’ll find the right one to enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor spaces.

Other worthwhile additions to consider are pergolas and umbrellas to create shaded areas for additional comfort. These not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also offer practical benefits like additional protection from the elements.

3. Planters that Bring Your Space to Life

If you have a patio or deck, bring an artistic touch to these outdoor areas with beautiful planters. Adding greenery to the space can instantly create a welcoming ambiance, so pick out planters that complement your outdoor furniture and decor so you can showcase your plants and flowers in style.

Planters can add a unique design, and when using the highest quality materials, they can offer exceptional performance and long-lasting durability. Tall planters, planter bowls and more will last season after season and can even be used as a multifunctional unit that offers division in your space. You can also add modular components to create another place to sit.

4. Fire Features that Transform your Backyard

Transform your backyard into a warm, inviting haven where memories are made with fire features. For example, outdoor firepits and firepit inserts elevate your outdoor experience by creating a cozy focal point in your backyard.

Check out this selection of outdoor fire features from Belgard. Whether you need a stone fire pit or a gas fire pit insert, you’ll find the right product to make your family and guests want to gather outdoors for warmth, comfort and bonding.

Start living your best life just outside your back door by looking for meticulously crafted outdoor products that blend seamlessly with any design aesthetic, from modern to rustic. For more ideas and design inspiration, visit ElementsHome.com.

2024-10-29T14:27:00

(BPT) – Navy Federal Credit Union and Sperling’s BestPlaces evaluated and ranked 400 cities across the United States based on quality-of-life metrics to determine the top cities that best meet the needs of transitioning servicemembers, Veterans and their families. They also identified the best cities for those who are looking to retire, buy a home, move to a small town or start a business.

2024-10-29T09:35:00

(BPT) – If you have a living room or family room with limited wall space, you may be challenged to find the best place for your TV. Fortunately, mounting a TV above a fireplace is not only a popular design choice that saves space and creates a single striking focal point, but thanks to recent advancements in fireplace technology it’s safer and more stylish than ever to pair these living room staples.

Innovative heat management

Modern fireplaces have revolutionized the way designers and families think about TV placement. The Heat & Glo Primo II gas fireplace, for example, showcases innovative technology that allows for unique design possibilities:

TV placement: You can safely mount your TV just one inch above the fireplace opening.

Finishing materials: Heat-sensitive materials like sheetrock or wood panels can be brought right up to the fireplace opening.

Year-round enjoyment: You can enjoy the cozy ambiance of a fire without the heat, thanks to advanced heat management.

Safe touch: A cooling system keeps the glass at a safe temperature without a protective screen, which is ideal for homes with children and pets.

“A fireplace traditionally puts out a lot of heat, which you may not always want,” said Kathy Rogers, hearth expert at Heat & Glo. “But instead of eliminating the fireplace altogether, you can choose a fireplace with a heat management component. This allows you to control the amount of heat being emitted, and also lets you safely put your TV above the fireplace.”

How to match your fireplace to your TV

For a harmonious and balanced living room or family room, consider these five tips:

1. Size matters: Match the width of your fireplace to the width of your TV for a cohesive look. The most popular TV sizes are 43”, 50,” 55” and 65”. These pair perfectly with the width of our most popular fireplaces.

Fireplace width	TV width	Advertised TV Size
36″	37.5″	43″
42″	43.6″	50″
48″	48″	55″
60″	57″	65″

2. Mounting height: Ensure that the TV is at a comfortable viewing height, so you’re not craning your neck to see the screen. Heat & Glo fireplaces offer mounting as close as one inch from the fireplace opening, ensuring the location height of your TV isn’t hindered.

3. Design consistency: Choose complementary styles. If you have an ultra-modern TV, consider a sleek, contemporary fireplace design. A linear fireplace fits these needs perfectly.

4. Measure first: Before purchasing either one, be sure to measure both your TV and your desired fireplace to create visual balance. It’s recommended to take your ceiling height and size of the room into consideration.

5. Viewing comfort: Consider the distance of the TV from your seating area to avoid neck and eye strain, as well as optimal viewing. The best viewing distance depends on both the size of the screen and the resolution of your TV. Most TV manufacturers provide recommendations for optimal viewing distance, so it’s a good idea to look this up before mounting your TV and placing furniture.

With careful planning and the right technology, you can create a beautiful, functional living space that seamlessly incorporates both your TV and your fireplace. Modern fireplace designs offer the flexibility to enhance your space without compromising on safety or aesthetics, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds — the warmth of a fireplace and the entertainment of a well-placed TV.

Learn more about this technology and find a fireplace that fits your style at HeatNGlo.com.

2024-10-29T09:01:00

(BPT) – If you recycle at home or the office, that’s great! Mother Nature thanks you. But, when was the last time you thought about how and what you’re tossing into your bins? If you’re recycling like it’s 1999, or even 2019, you might be interested to learn that this practice has changed, evolved and expanded within the past few years. Here’s what you need to know.

Organic waste. Organic waste recycling is growing in the U.S., with many cities like Minneapolis, Seattle, Austin, Portland, Boulder, Denver, New York City, San Francisco and more offering curbside composting bins. The idea is to keep food out of landfills, and it works the same as recycling other items, except it’s the food scraps from your dinner plate, veggies that have gone bad in the back of your fridge, and any other food scraps you generate while cooking — peels, rinds, egg shells, meat scraps, you name it. Check with your local municipality to see if organic waste recycling is available where you live.

Plastic. Not all plastic is created equal. For example, resin codes — the chasing arrows triangle with a number inside the shape, helps recyclers sort plastics. But, just because an item has a resin code does not mean it is recyclable. The best rule of thumb in recycling plastic is to look for clear messaging about recycling on-pack or check your recycling hauler’s website. And about plastic bags: Many cities now offer separate collection facilities for plastic bags.

Cartons. The milk and juice cartons you buy in the refrigerated case and shelf-stable cartons, like those often used to package beverages, broths and soups that don’t need to be refrigerated — they’re recyclable.

Ten or 20 years ago, this wasn’t necessarily the case. It’s a big change, and one that didn’t just happen. In 2009, the Carton Council of North America formed with the goal of reducing the number of cartons sent to landfills. And they’ve been successful. Today, food and beverage cartons — like those from Tetra Pak — are accepted in the majority of household recycling programs and are recycled into paper products and green building materials.

Learn more about carton recycling access at any U.S. residential address using this recycling locator tool. Then, recycle your empty carton by tossing it into your recycling bin. It is suggested you keep the cap on or push the straw in to the carton to prevent litter.

Want to know more about how cartons are recycled? Visit Tetra Pak’s carton recycling page.

Single-stream vs. dual-stream. This may sound counterintuitive, but many communities are transitioning to single-stream recycling. That’s just tossing plastic, glass, paper, cartons, cardboard and other recyclables into the same bin. While this makes it convenient for people, and sorting technologies have advanced to streamline the sorting process, it also ups the risk of contamination. But, getting more people to recycle is a step in the right direction. Homeowners and renters who recycle can do their part to reduce contamination by learning what items their recycling collection facility accepts and only placing those items in the bin.

Electronics. In the past, it was difficult to know what to do when it was time to put that cell phone or television out to pasture. But now, new technologies like sorting robotics and new laws are making it easier to recycle your electronics. Check in your area or visit https://www.epa.gov/recycle/electronics-donation-and-recycling for more information.

Recycling is good for the planet and now, thanks to the good work of dedicated people and organizations like the Carton Council of North America, recycling continues to evolve and improve.