Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2025-01-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – Energy efficiency isn’t a trendy buzzword — it’s quickly becoming the new normal for everyday Americans across the country. Beginning this fall and throughout next year, consumers will be able to save up to $1,680 on new, energy-efficient home appliances through a federal program called the Home Electrification and Appliances Rebate (HEAR) program.

What is the Home Electrification and Appliances Rebate (HEAR) program?

The HEAR program — part of the Inflation Reduction Act — is a new program that provides Americans in participating states with a 50-100% rebate on certain energy-efficient products. Depending on your household income, you might be eligible for HEAR rebates for several appliances and home upgrades, with a full list available here. In particular, we encourage households to invest in products that are ENERGY STAR^® certified, which is required for several appliance categories.

What is the ENERGY STAR^®certification?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the ENERGY STAR^® certification program to help consumers safely and easily identify energy-efficient products that provide cost savings and help protect the environment. Think of it as a “Good Housekeeping” seal of approval for home appliances. The EPA indicates that for a typical household, choosing ENERGY STAR^® products translates to $450 less in energy bills every year, while allowing consumers to enjoy high-quality appliances with advanced performance.

How do ENERGY STAR^® home appliances benefit my household?

1. Energy savings: The primary benefit of ENERGY STAR^® certified appliances is energy savings, which directly translates to cost savings.
2. Cost savings: In addition to about $450 in annual savings on energy bills, ENERGY STAR^® appliances are eligible for HEAR rebates, which include up to $840 for electric cooking products and up to another $840 for heat pump dryers. Given the long-term savings of ENERGY STAR^® appliances, these products might even pay for themselves over time.
3. Environmental benefits: ENERGY STAR^® appliances reduce greenhouse gasses released into the environment, which helps to combat climate change by lowering households’ carbon footprint.

What are some ENERGY STAR^® products I can purchase today through the HEAR program?

1. Electric cooking products: ENERGY STAR^® certified electric cooking products — like induction stoves — are 18% more efficient, on average, compared to standard models. These products improve your home’s air quality, reduce the stress on your HVAC system, and could even help you boil water twice as fast. Samsung offers over 10 induction cooking products — from ranges to cooktops — that meet the ENERGY STAR^® certification and are eligible for HEAR rebates.
2. Laundry appliances: ENERGY STAR^® laundry products — such as washers, dryers, and combos — use less power without sacrificing performance or functionality. Under the HEAR program, you can receive rebates for appliances with a heat pump dryer, such as Samsung’s all-in-one Bespoke AI Laundry Combo or the Electric Ventless Hybrid Heat Pump Dryer.

Whether you are continuing or just beginning to seek out energy-efficient appliances for your home, consider purchasing Samsung’s ENERGY STAR^® certified home appliances for the best in savings and sustainability. Visit Samsung’s home appliance page to learn more about the options available to you.

This piece is Samsung Electronics America sponsored content.

2025-01-11T03:01:00

(BPT) – With the growing trend toward creating outdoor living spaces, building an outdoor kitchen has never been more popular—or more attainable. Whether you love entertaining or simply enjoy dining outside, a well-designed outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into the ultimate gathering spot.

One of the most versatile and durable options for building an outdoor kitchen is using Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks.

Why Choose Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks?

Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks are ideal for constructing outdoor kitchens due to their rustic charm, durability, and flexibility in design. The RumbleStone^® collection is designed to mimic the look of natural stone, with a tumbled finish that provides an authentic, weathered appearance, making them perfect for both traditional and modern outdoor designs.

Here’s why RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks are the go-to choice for your next outdoor kitchen project:

1. Versatile Design Options
   Whether you’re creating a simple grilling station or a full-scale outdoor kitchen with countertops, storage, and a pizza oven, RumbleStone^® blocks can be easily configured to fit your vision. The modular design allows for multiple layout possibilities, accommodating any size or shape of the outdoor space.
2. Durability
   Made from high-quality concrete, these blocks are built to withstand the elements, ensuring your outdoor kitchen stays beautiful for years to come. RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks are engineered to resist cracking, chipping, and fading, even in harsh weather conditions.
3. Ease of Installation
   Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks are designed with DIY enthusiasts in mind. The easy-to-use system makes installation simple, whether you’re an experienced builder or a beginner. The blocks fit together seamlessly, requiring little to no cutting, and are available in a variety of sizes to meet your specific project needs.
4. Timeless Aesthetic
   The natural look of the RumbleStone^® blocks complements a wide range of outdoor environments and architectural styles. Whether your backyard is lush and green or sleek and modern, the rustic charm of the RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks adds character and elegance to any outdoor kitchen setup.

Tips for Building Your Outdoor Kitchen

1. Plan the Layout
   Start by considering the size of your space and the functionality you want from your outdoor kitchen. Think about your cooking preferences, how many people you want to entertain, and the appliances you’ll need—grill, refrigerator, sink, or pizza oven.
2. Foundation is Key
   A level foundation is essential for the longevity and stability of your outdoor kitchen. Ensure you have a sturdy, flat surface before starting construction.
3. Add Counter Space
   Countertops are vital for any kitchen, indoors or out. Consider using matching RumbleStone^® wall blocks to create both the base and countertop, or pair the blocks with QUIKRETE concrete countertops for a custom look.
4. Incorporate Seating and Dining Areas
   Make your outdoor kitchen an extension of your living space by adding comfortable seating. Consider building a bar or a dining area adjacent to the kitchen using additional RumbleStone^® blocks (or Ladera Wall Blocks), allowing guests to relax while meals are being prepared.
5. Lighting and Accessories
   Don’t forget to incorporate lighting into your outdoor kitchen design. Ambient lighting can create the perfect atmosphere for evening gatherings, and task lighting is crucial for cooking. Add some personal touches like built-in shelves, plant containers, or even a fire pit.

Beyond the savings of not hiring a contractor, a homeowner can really personalize an outdoor kitchen to fit their style and taste with a modular concrete block base accompanied by a concrete countertop. It can be customized with a grill, bar and mini refrigerator to accommodate any dining and entertainment event. Other homeowners may elevate the experience even more by installing LED lights, a sound system or other luxury features. Whether elaborate or basic, design possibilities are endless for outdoor kitchens.

Building an outdoor kitchen with Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks offers a beautiful, durable, and customizable solution for creating an outdoor space that’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying with your family. With its versatility, timeless appeal, and easy installation, RumbleStone^® blocks allow you to bring your dream outdoor kitchen to life.

For more information on Pavestone’s RumbleStone^® Wall Blocks and to explore design ideas, visit Pavestone’s website.

2025-01-09T23:01:00

(BPT) – Stuck indoors? Winter is the perfect time to address indoor issues that affect the functionality, safety, appearance and value of your home. One great example: A basement or other room with unlevel flooring, new concrete floors or pre-cast slabs with unacceptable finishes — or existing concrete floors with damaged finishes.

While it may seem daunting, you don’t have to undergo major demo like demolishing the existing concrete slab to achieve a safe, even floor. You can repair the surface and correct sloping so your floor will be more usable just as it is, or in preparation for ceramic tile, resilient flooring, carpet or some other finish.

Uneven flooring solutions

Conquering concrete flooring problems is simple if you use QUIKRETE^® Fast-Setting Self-Leveling Floor Resurfacer. Pros and DIYers alike can use this product to resurface most floors with a single application, creating a smooth, level surface to improve your basement or other room. Even better, you can tackle this project over the course of a single weekend, given the right conditions. You can even use it for leveling areas like patios — when the outside temperature is above freezing.

Prepping to level your floor

Before starting, you’ll want to check the temperature of the work area and the amount of slope — plus make sure the floor doesn’t need any damage repair.

Damage assessment: Large cracks, holes or other damage may require repair before resurfacing. Repair holes that are deeper than 1 inch and deeper than one-half inch with an area greater than 6 inches. For deep cracks (more than 5/8 of an inch deep) or large chunks of floor, you can use a fast-set repair mortar and cure such as QUIKRETE^® FastSet Repair Mortar before resurfacing, following the product instructions. Smaller cracks are no problem — the floor resurfacer will easily fill small hairline cracks.

Evaluate the slope: Use a level to determine how much the floor is actually sloping. You can apply up to 5/8 of an inch of lift — but not more than that — in a single application. If your floor has a larger slope, you’ll want to use more than one application to level the area completely.

Check your temp: You can use QUIKRETE Fast-Setting Self-Leveling Floor Resurfacer at any temperature above freezing. However, for best results, the temperature should be at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Colder temps will slow down the setting time for the product, although it does still set faster than typical resurfacing products.

Ready, set, level up!

First, make sure you have everything you need: QUIKRETE Fast-Setting Self-Leveling Floor Resurfacer, a heavy-duty drill with a paddle mixer, water, a 5-gallon bucket, impervious gloves such as nitrile, safety glasses and QUIKRETE^® Concrete Bonding Adhesive. The resurfacing product is self-leveling, so no trowel will be needed. Make sure to follow all instructions and safety precautions and the products, and wear impervious gloves such as nitrile throughout the process.

Instructions

Clean and prime: All surfaces must be completely clean and free of foreign substances including dirt, dust, oil, grease and paint. After cleaning, you’ll need to prime the clean, dry floor surface with diluted QUIKRETE Concrete Bonding Adhesive. Follow the product’s instructions for use and allow enough time to dry. The bonding adhesive should be dry to the touch (which takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the environmental conditions in the space) before you begin using the resurfacer.

Apply resurfacer: Mix resurfacer with water according to the product instructions. Starting in the center of the space, pour the material directly from the mixing container in continuous strips about 1 foot wide across the narrow section of the application area. Placing should be done as one continuous operation, with no screeding or troweling necessary.

The mixed material will remain fluid for approximately 20 minutes, and it will level itself to a smooth surface. Pour the next strip adjacent to the edge of the previously placed material. The adjacent strips should be poured within 15-20 minutes to ensure a smooth, continuous surface. Continue to work without breaks until the entire application area is covered. The product usually sets in 3-4 hours, depending on conditions.

Allow resurfacer to cure: Curing time varies, depending on area conditions. During the first 24 hours, keep the area covered or damp to prevent excessive loss of water, which can cause cracking. You can also use QUIKRETE^® Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal, plastic sheeting or the application of a very fine fog spray of water to help prevent shrinkage cracking.

The result? Smooth, safe, level floors that look great and are much more functional. Improving the condition of your flooring will help you make the most of your home’s underused basement or other spaces.

Learn more about this product and other great ideas for DIY projects in your home at Quikrete.com.

2025-01-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Style is an expression of one’s individuality, rooted in the confidence to trust personal instincts and create a world of beauty, rather than pursuing fleeting trends. It’s about celebrating all the nuances that define uniqueness — from the fashion one wears and the food they savor, to the way they design their home. True style is singular, impossible to replicate, and utterly incomparable. Brizo^® Kitchen & Bath Company exemplifies this credo, setting the standard for style and innovation through every collection.

“At Brizo^®, we encourage everyone to embrace their respective style and infuse their space with that same individuality. We’re always drawing inspiration from the everyday — from bold designs found in fashion to the organic patterns found in nature. We look to transform these familiar elements into artful and innovative designs that enrich the home and stand the test of time,” says Celine Kwok Garland, Brizo^® Lead Industrial Designer.

According to the Brizo Industrial Design team, 2025 will be defined by trends that transform interiors, emphasizing bold design schemes, rich textures in various forms, and modern industrial aesthetics. These elements come together to help build a space that feels purposefully crafted, effortlessly stylized, and uniquely personal.

Design’s Cool Turn

The runways of top designers influence more than just fashion — they shape how individuals express themselves. From the clothes they are drawn to, to the choices made when designing a space, it all reflects personal style. Building on this influence, upcoming collections that have graced the Spring/Summer 2025 runways show that bold, cool tones are taking over. This can translate into the home by combining cool tones and metal finishes, such as the distinctive Brilliance^® Black Onyx finish by Brizo, with warm stone veining or natural wood accents. This approach creates a harmonious blend of contrast and cohesion, infusing the home with runway-inspired sophistication.

Textured Renaissance

Connecting the indoors to nature is a timeless design philosophy, but 2025 will take this concept to a new level through the incorporation of texture-rich elements. Think irregularities in patterns that evoke topography, like a burl wood side table, or raw, earthen stone pieces. These varied textures and organic design elements create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, offering a space that mirrors the unparalleled beauty of nature.

Modern Industrial Flair

To add an industrial flair to modern design, blend soft geometrical influences with raw elements and mixed finishes. The Litze^® Semi-Professional Faucet by Brizo, featuring intricate knurling and expanded finishes, including the split Matte Black / Brilliance^® Luxe Steel, exemplifies this trend by adding dimension to minimalist spaces. Similarly, the Brilliance^® Polished Nickel handle found on Jason Wu for Brizo™ Kitchen faucets draws inspiration from the base of Jason Wu’s mannequins, while the Matte White finish exemplifies a timeless quality. This design approach balances simplicity with bold industrial touches, empowering homeowners to express their character through modern design and style.

Regardless of the choices made when designing a space, the cornerstone of success is remaining authentic to one’s individual style and self-expression. Just like in the world of fashion, interior design offers the freedom to exercise creative license and personal choices, allowing homeowners to reimage spaces with confidence.

2024-12-21T17:01:00

(BPT) – With the weather turning colder, you may think there’s not much more you can do to protect your outdoor surfaces from damage caused by the elements. The good news is, it’s not too late to ensure that any unprotected patios, driveways, pool decks, paths, sidewalks or other exterior concrete surfaces on your property are safe from flaking, cracking, spalling or staining. Depending on the current climate conditions where you live, there still may be plenty of time for you to tackle this crucial outdoor project before the worst winter weather.

Why is concrete vulnerable to damage?

While you may think of concrete as a hard surface, it’s actually more like a rigid sponge. If it’s not properly sealed and waterproofed, concrete can become saturated from the moisture in rain, snow and ice. Then when temperatures drop under freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit), the water that’s saturating the concrete also freezes — and then can thaw and refreeze as temps fluctuate, causing visible damage.

Unprotected concrete surfaces on your property that looked so clean and smooth when first installed can become cracked and flake, as well as become stained and discolored by salt, leaves, dirt, oil and debris that accumulate over time.

How to protect your exterior surfaces

You can take simple steps to keep your outdoor concrete surfaces in top condition using QUIKRETE^® Concrete & Masonry High Gloss Sealer, as long as the current air and surface temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and rain or heavy dew are not expected within 24 hours.

QUIKRETE Concrete & Masonry High Gloss Sealer is a water-based, acrylic clear sealer that’s designed to waterproof, seal and enhance the color of decorative or standard gray concrete, pavers, masonry, brick or natural stone surfaces. It also repels oil, grease, acids, household chemicals, food stains and ultraviolet rays to further protect your surfaces.

Follow these steps to seal your concrete surfaces:

• Before starting: Always wear eye protection and impervious gloves, such as nitrile gloves, before using the product.
• For new concrete surfaces: Allow concrete to cure at least 30 days before applying the sealer.
• For existing concrete surfaces: Repair any damage, cracking or flaking first, then clean thoroughly and allow to dry 24 hours before sealing. To eliminate oil, grease and other unwanted tough stains, use a solvent-free, low odor and low VOC cleaner, etcher and degreaser before sealing.
• For previously sealed surfaces: Clean concrete thoroughly before applying.
• When the concrete surface is ready: Simply apply sealer with a roller, brush or garden sprayer according to product instructions. Depending on the porosity of the concrete, one gallon of sealer uniformly applied should cover 200 to 400 square feet. A second coat of sealer can be applied after two hours. For best results, the second coat should be applied perpendicular to the first coat.

Looking for a less glossy, more natural-looking concrete surface? You can use QUIKRETE^® Concrete & Masonry Waterproofing Sealer, following the same basic directions.

For more tips and information on repairing, sealing and protecting your home’s concrete surfaces, visit Quikrete.com. You can also find a wide variety of products and helpful videos that are perfect for helping you with tackling indoor DIY projects during the colder winter months — or planning for next spring’s projects.

2024-12-20T11:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is in full swing. It’s a beautiful season, but as the temperature drops and the snow, ice and cold approach, there’s always the possibility of a power outage. When it’s cold outside and your home is plunged into darkness, it can be more than just an inconvenience. It can mean not being able to keep your family warm, to work if your power is out, even to get water if your pipes freeze.

The best way to get through a winter power outage? Be prepared. A little forethought can save a lot of headaches later. Here are some tips for handling a winter power outage from Anker SOLIX, the experts in whole-home backup power solutions.

Assemble an emergency kit. Make sure you have all the things on hand that your family needs to get through a power outage. You’ll be home, so you’ve already got warm blankets and clothes covered. You’ll also want several gallons of bottled water and food that doesn’t have to be heated up like granola bars, fruit and nuts. Pop some new batteries into your flashlights before you need them, and get a weather radio if you don’t already have one. Also think about getting solar chargers for your phones, some battery-powered candles and hand warmers.

Invest in backup power. When the lights and heat go out, you need backup. The Anker SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station is an accessible whole-home power backup. It’s the first power station to feature AC coupling and support home solar power cycling when paired with the Anker SOLIX Home Power Panel. Easy installation only takes a few hours by a professional electrician, and with a cost-effective price point, the F3800 is the most accessible home power solution available on the market.

The F3800 can provide back-up power for the entire home. It offers 6000W AC power output and 120V/240V dual voltage output, enabling it to simultaneously power high-energy devices. The AC output power can even be elevated up to 12,000W when two F3800s are combined. At the same time, it boasts a massive 3.84kWh internal battery for extended backup power. With its expandable form factor, users can customize their power storage needs with up to 53.76kWh when combining two F3800s and up to 12 additional batteries, providing up to a week of home backup power. You can also charge your EVs!

For a more compact solution, the Anker SOLIX C300 DC, is a new compact-but-mighty power station. It can power seven devices at once, a space heater and more for shorter periods of time. It recharges via solar energy, so you can power it up again and again. And it comes with a built-in light, which is handy during those dark nights when power goes out.

Make sure the pipes don’t freeze. When the power goes out, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks and turn on the faucets, just a trickle. That will help ensure the pipes don’t freeze in the cold.

Keep your refrigerator door closed. This will help keep the cold air in, preserving your food. General safety guidelines say your fridge will keep food cold for four hours during an outage. If the outage lasts longer than that, it’s best to throw away things like dairy, meats, eggs and leftovers.

Don’t be tempted to heat with your gas stove. This can cause a backup of carbon monoxide gas, which can be deadly.

Thinking about investing in backup power? Contact Anker SOLIX at https://www.anker.com/.

2024-12-20T15:29:00

(BPT) – The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you gather with loved ones for meals and conversations and make memories and traditions. To achieve these connections (while still making delicious meals), warmth and welcome are key.

If you’re worried about being out of step with the modern and minimalist design trends of the past few years, consider this: experts have seen a desire among clients for cozier and warmer designs.

Are you interested in changing your kitchen and staying in style? Here are four 2025 upcoming trends from design experts across the country who can help you step into the new year on trend.

1. Luxury through personalization

While homeowners are seeking a luxury feel for their kitchens, they don’t want them to be exactly like that of their neighbors, friends and family members. Instead, there is a desire among clients for personalization while still maintaining a luxe style.

“I am seeing a shift toward extremely personal customization,” said Jennifer Hutton, Creative Director and Principal Designer at Grau Design Studio. “That’s anything from bespoke storage options to specialized cabinet interiors to an emphasis on personal hobbies like creating craft cocktails, baking or even using certain types of cooking equipment.”

Andrea Harvey, founder of ASH Interiors and Design, has also noted that homeowners want to add personal lifestyle details to their kitchen design.

“As always, luxury is about personalization,” said Harvey. “Luxury clients want their spaces to be uniquely theirs. They want details that are all about how they live. They would prefer to be ‘the only one’ than feel they are copying their neighbor or friend.”

2. A return to color and warmth

Gone are the days of bright whites and cold neutrals. More and more clients are seeking to infuse color and warmth into their kitchen space.

“No more gray!” said Ariana Lovato, Founder + Principal Designer of Honeycomb Home Design. “Warm tones and oak finishes will still prevail next year, but people are not shying away from color when it comes to an island or perimeter cabinetry.”

Hutton has also had clients ask for a darker, warmer aesthetic with textural and colorful interest.

“I see luxury kitchen trends taking a turn to a deeper, moodier style, a far cry from the bright white, pristine kitchens from a few years ago,” said Hutton. “My clients are looking for unique marbles, lots of texture, organic materials and rich colors.”

3. Multiple zones

Recent home kitchen designs have mimicked the style and function of professional kitchens that have all you need in one place. However, homes are already departing from this modern trend.

“We anticipate our luxury clients’ desire for ‘multiple zones’ to continue to strongly impact 2025 kitchen design,” said Linda Engler, founder of Engler Studio. “By multiple zones, I mean specific function areas beyond a primary kitchen: coffee and beverage stations, prep kitchens, sculleries and baking centers.”

Engler goes on to say that the multiple-zone approach uses a variation of materials and finishes to visually distinguish these stations from the primary kitchen. Because of these zones, designers and clients should expect an increase in appliances, as each zone will require its own package.

Another aspect of multiple zones is that homeowners are rediscovering the kitchen as a gathering place.

“It’s an exciting time in kitchen design because we’re starting to see a shift from the super sterile modern kitchen,” said Lovato. “Clients want islands that have wrap-around seating for casual conversations and built-in seating options like a nook or a custom banquette attached to the back of an island.”

4. Transitional design

Are you stuck between designing a modern or traditional kitchen? You can have the best of both worlds by aiming for a transitional design aesthetic.

The term “transitional design” can be difficult to nail down, but you can generally think of it as a style that incorporates modern elements like clean, sleek lines with traditional details that are homey and welcoming.

“I view transitional design as the bridge that connects traditional and modern,” said Engler. “It’s the middle ground between two extremes.”

A simple yet effective way to combine modern and traditional kitchen design is through careful hardware and appliance choices.

“Things like faucet style, hardware and light fixtures are examples of elements that can read as transitional and can be switched out over time if needed,” said Hutton. “Appliance style also plays a role here. Very professional, grand pieces tone down the modern style and add an ‘old school’ flair which can neutralize the ultramodern aesthetic.”

Appliances from luxury brand Signature Kitchen Suite’s new Transitional Series are perfect for homeowners seeking clean lines with timeless charm. The series includes wall ovens, induction cooktops, insert hoods, traditional and undercabinet refrigerators, dishwashers and built-in wine columns.

These panel-ready units feature satin stainless steel panel and handle kits as well as leading-edge True to Food technology. Not only do they look good, but they allow home chefs to show others their passion for the culinary arts.

Opening your home’s heart to style and comfort

Using these four trends, you can say goodbye to a purely clean and functional aesthetic and hello to a cozy kitchen you and your loved ones will want to spend time in. To learn about more design trends and how you can achieve them in the new year, visit SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

2024-12-20T01:01:00

(BPT) – Americans are spending more time in their outdoor spaces — and want to maximize those spaces. Studies show that nearly 90% of homeowners consider their outdoor areas to be important to their health and well-being. Design trends reflect that people are showing more interest in connecting with nature in their own backyard and enjoying the comforts of indoor living while gathering outdoors. This means creating environments that are comfortable, multifunctional and cost-effective.

The outdoor design experts at Belgard^®, the trusted leader in hardscape solutions from pavers to retaining walls, share exclusive insights into 2025 outdoor design trends to help homeowners plan their dream outdoor spaces.

Privacy and spaces of solitude

As property footprints continue to shrink year over year, homeowners are looking for aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate more privacy from neighbors or their surroundings. Decorative screen panels, pergolas, built-in planters and other structures can add elements of both beauty and functionality that provide a sense of solitude, even in urban environments.

Sound gardens and water features can further enhance a feeling of solitude by adding audible privacy from neighbors or street traffic. For example, even a simple fountain or water bowl can enhance the ambiance and help muffle sound.

Shifting back to classic style

While minimalism remains a popular trend, there’s also been a shift back to a more classic style in indoor and outdoor home design. Mixed materials and warm colors such as beige and sepia are re-emerging, which lend themselves to a more traditional aesthetic.

With modular options from Belgard, a mix of different materials with multiple textures and sizes can create limitless possibilities while keeping with a classic design aesthetic. Because they’re available in many styles, shapes, and sizes designed to work together, a variety of paver patterns can be combined seamlessly to achieve any desired overall look.

Convenience in design

As outdoor spaces are now a must-have for homeowners, they must be convenient to access and offer the same amenities as the home’s indoor spaces. Homeowners are looking for their outdoor space to transition easily from the house to the built environment while offering the same modern conveniences of lighting, eating, Wi-Fi, quality furnishing and accessories.

Health and wellness

Using outdoor spaces to improve your well-being is a top focus for many people today. Americans are looking to be more balanced and in harmony with their environment, favoring the use of native plants and sustainable materials like permeable pavers, which promote better water drainage and reduce environmental impact.

Gardening is also a popular hobby that helps improve people’s feeling of well-being, so enthusiasts can opt for raised garden beds or planters to pursue their growing goals in their outdoor spaces. For example, Belgard offers options to create built-in planters as part of your overall hardscape design with its Belgard Artforms modular outdoor panel system. You can use the panels, which are sized in modular shapes, to quickly and efficiently construct planters, seating, outdoor kitchens, fire features and more.

By designing outdoor environments that support their health and wellness, individuals can cultivate spaces that provide a retreat in their own backyard to improve their quality of life.

Value-added features

In every metro area, property sizes are smaller than ever. With this shift plus budget considerations, homeowners want to maximize small spaces through modular components that serve multiple purposes, like built-in seat walls, fire features, water features and planters that seamlessly blend into a living space — offering both functionality and visual appeal.

Homeowners can get creative with outdoor spaces with the right hardscape materials. For example, a small space can be transformed into a lush oasis by adding a vertical garden, or underutilized spaces like side or front yards can become cozy sitting areas. Even a small patio can serve as an al fresco dining space, and it doesn’t take a lot to add an outdoor workstation with the right tools and tech. Patio pavers and wall units help define spaces, making them serve more than one purpose for any household.

These strategic investments not only increase the functionality and enjoyment of outdoor areas but also significantly boost curb appeal and the home’s property value, making them a smart choice for homeowners looking to maximize their limited spaces.

To find inspiration for any outdoor space, visit Belgard.com.

2024-12-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – By Craig Fugate, former Administrator of FEMA and a lifelong advocate for all-hazards preparedness

When you’ve been in emergency management as long as I have — whether it was leading efforts in Florida or running FEMA — you quickly realize one thing: disasters don’t follow a script. Hurricanes, wildfires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes or even man-made crises like cyberattacks and power grid failures — any of them can leave you in the dark, literally. Without power, critical systems fail. No cold storage for food or medication, no way to communicate with loved ones or emergency services, and no means to keep life-saving medical equipment running.

After major events, whether it’s hurricanes or infrastructure failures, I’ve seen communities struggle without power for days or even weeks. During the 2004 hurricane season, when four hurricanes slammed into Florida, some areas were without electricity for over a month. I know firsthand that a lack of power isn’t just inconvenient — it can halt recovery efforts, compromise public safety, and put lives at risk.

If you live in a disaster-prone area, preparedness isn’t just a seasonal practice — it’s part of life. Whether you’re getting ready for hurricane season or staying ready for unexpected threats like wildfires or grid attacks, one thing is clear: having your own independent power source isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

That’s why I’ve added Jackery’s solar generators to my personal emergency toolkit. Their portable power stations have changed the way I prepare, helping me stay ahead of the curve no matter what hazard comes my way.

A Go-To for All-Hazards Preparedness

During a disaster, even something as small as keeping your phone charged can be critical. Portable power stations and solar generators offer efficient, reliable power when you need it most. I’ve used the Jackery Explorer 1000 during hurricanes and other emergencies, powering everything from my amateur radio station to my cell phone. Thanks to its portability, I can move it wherever it’s needed. And when the skies clear, the solar panels provide renewable energy to recharge — no fuel required.

Jackery’s products aren’t just limited to hurricanes. Their versatility makes them invaluable for all hazards — whether it’s wildfires that force you to evacuate, winter storms that knock out power, or cyberattacks that leave critical infrastructure offline. Even outside of emergencies, these power stations have proven their worth. I’ve taken them on road trips and used them during planned outages. Having quiet, clean energy on hand gives me peace of mind in any situation.

Solar Power: A Game-Changer Across All Emergencies

Traditional gas generators come with a long list of challenges. After storms or disasters, fuel shortages are common, and storing gasoline safely isn’t always possible. The noise from gas generators is another issue — during long recovery efforts, it becomes more than just an annoyance. Worse yet, gas generators pose serious safety risks. Every year, we hear tragic stories of people dying from carbon monoxide poisoning after running generators too close to homes or in garages.

That’s where solar power is a game-changer. Solar generators provide clean, quiet energy without the risks of toxic fumes. They eliminate the need for fuel and are safe to use indoors — no worrying about carbon monoxide buildup or fire hazards. Simply unfold the solar panels, harness the sun’s power, and you’re good to go.

Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes or power grid failures, solar energy offers a sustainable solution when traditional power sources fail. Renewable energy will play a bigger role in the future of disaster response, and Jackery is leading the way.

Preparedness Means Thinking Ahead for Any Scenario

Every year, as hurricane season rolls around, I remind people that preparedness is more than just stocking up on water and canned food. It’s about having the right tools to stay safe and connected — no matter the type of disaster. And that includes making sure you have reliable backup power.

Jackery’s newly released Explorer 5000 Plus is the next step in portable power. It offers even more capacity, flexibility and ease of use, making it perfect for homes, apartments, RVs or anyone on the move. Whether you’re facing down a hurricane, dealing with wildfire evacuations, or preparing for a cyberattack on the power grid, Jackery has a solution tailored to fit your needs.

A Solution for Every Hazard

After decades in emergency management, I don’t make recommendations lightly. But I’ve seen how critical power is during and after disasters. That’s why I trust Jackery as part of my personal preparedness strategy. It’s not just about getting through the storm — it’s about being ready for the long road to recovery, no matter what hazard comes your way.

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.