Brandpoint Home & Garden
2024-03-25T09:01:00
(BPT) – With 60% of single Americans ages 18-44 using dating apps, Whirlpool® conducted a survey to explore what singles value most in their potential partners. Read on to discover what they found.
2024-03-20T07:01:00
(BPT) – If you’re a facility maintenance professional, you know the challenge of juggling multiple responsibilities. Beyond daily maintenance, you’re a jack-of-all-trades called on to handle facility repairs.
From damaged walls to minor electrical issues and beyond, you’re the go-to person for keeping your facility in top shape. Whether you’re new at your job or have been at it for a while, it’s always good to find hacks here and there to make these repair tasks as quick and easy as possible. Check out these pro tips to help you tackle four common facility repairs.
1. Chipped paint
No matter how careful you are, chipped paint is inevitable. You could sand down the area and paint over it, but for better results, you’ll need to do a little more work.
After scraping off loose paint around the chip, use a wire brush to remove any remaining debris before sanding. Use 100-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish and remove lingering dust and paint chips with a damp, lint-free rag.
Now that you’ve prepped the area use a thin layer of drywall compound or wood filler to raise the level of the area to match the surrounding paint for a seamless repair. Prime, paint and voila, it’s like the chip was never there!
2. Damaged ceiling tiles
Whether from water damage, gouging or other mishaps, you’ll come across ceiling tiles in your facilities that need replacement. For the best results, invest in pro-level equipment, especially if you’re in charge of large and/or multiple facilities. Using a product like RevealCut Ceiling Tile Cutting Workstation speeds installation, avoids manual acoustic ceiling tile cutting and delivers precise results every time.
Created by Arrow Fastener, known for its iconic T50 stapler, the all-in-one precision workstation cuts tiles in 30 seconds or less. Built-in measuring eliminates the need for scribing and multiple trips up the ladder while delivering 80% labor savings and decreasing the chance of injury. Even crooked walls are a cinch because the RevealCut can easily make out-of-square cuts!
3. Torn or stained carpet
Daily wear and tear and accidents can do a number on carpets. If you have a particularly unsightly section, avoid the expense of full replacement by performing a patch job. The procedure itself isn’t difficult. What can be a challenge is finding extra pieces of matching carpet.
You’ll likely find leftover carpeting from the original installation in the facility. If not, you can cut out what you need from existing carpet in less trafficked areas like under an enclosed staircase, water heater or furnace closets or under furniture that isn’t likely to be moved, like a storage cabinet.
4. Drywall
You already know how to fix small holes, dings and cracks in drywall, but there will be times when a large patch job is required. When you have a hole bigger than 6 inches, you’ll need to grab a piece of drywall to patch the problem.
You’ll have no trouble cutting and adhering a new piece of drywall to the area with joint compound, but for a truly professional job, you’ll need a few more tools and materials. It will take longer, but the final result will be worth it.
After you remove the damaged drywall and cut out a new piece, place furring strips through the hole and behind the drywall and anchor them with drywall screws. Place the drywall patch in place on top of the furring strips and secure with drywall screws. Using drywall tape, secure the edges before applying joint compound to the seam and across the whole area. Once dry, sand, prime and paint as usual.
Don’t forget to use quality tools for professional-grade results. Add products like Goldblatt Drywall Tools to your toolbox for smoother walls and perfect joints.
Using these four tips, you’ll take your facility maintenance repairs from good to great! Keep elevating your confidence and skills so your facility can thrive under your expert care.
2024-03-19T10:01:00
(BPT) – Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are not solely reserved for seasoned professionals. With preparation, a few handy tips and tricks, and high-quality protective gear, anyone can tackle home improvement projects like a pro. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and get to work.
Create a Plan
By taking the time to plan and define your objectives, you’ll lay a solid foundation for success. Planning allows you to foresee potential challenges and devise solutions in advance, minimizing frustration and setbacks. Lay out the materials, set the timeline, and strategize every move.
Use Top-Notch Tools and Materials
In the world of DIY, only the strong survive. Borrow or invest in tools and materials that don’t back down from a fight. We’re talking about the heavyweights, the reliable, the durable — gear that ensures your finished product can endure once the paint dries.
Gear Up for Safety
High-quality protective gear ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can confidently take charge of their projects. For instance, products by Venom Steel redefine the DIY experience, making it accessible to all with their unmatched durability and performance. Known for their toughness and high quality, the company’s gloves can provide an added layer of protection for your hands during tasks such as priming or painting, while coveralls are recommended to protect your clothes during activities such as sanding. The heavy-duty face mask works as a barrier against liquid and dry particles while also allowing you to breathe easily while at work.
Enforce a Budget
Establish a budget that’s as solid as your determination. Account for every expense, anticipate unforeseen challenges and ensure your financial strategy is as robust as your project plan. A well-planned budget encourages resourcefulness, pushing you to find cost-effective solutions and alternatives.
Knowledge is Power
If you’re facing a new DIY challenge, educate yourself like your success will depend on it — because it does. Dive into online resources, tutorials, and guides. Don’t hesitate to call in reinforcements — friends, family, or professionals.
Be Flexible
Sometimes plans just crumble, and unforeseen challenges emerge. Adaptability is key. Embrace flexibility; it’s the hallmark of a confident DIYer. Unleash your creativity, explore alternative solutions, and turn obstacles into opportunities. Take snapshots of your mishaps — they’re not just memories, they can be lessons for projects to come.
Tackle your DIY projects with the strength and resilience of Venom Steel products. They’re not just tools; they’re the allies you can count on to help you get a better grip on the basics of a new skill and finish your next project.
2024-03-19T08:01:00
(BPT) – As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time to breathe life into your backyard sanctuary and embrace the vibrant spirit of spring. Professional landscaper, author, and TV host of “I Hate My Yard” Sara Bendrick shares her In/Out list for spring, taking a look at today’s gardening trends, as well as her best tips for revitalizing your outdoor space this year.
You can say goodbye to these common substances and practices that aren’t great for your yard, your family, or the environment.
People are more aware than ever of how harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides negatively impact the soil, your food, and your health. Reduce or exclude these toxic chemicals from your garden experience by planting insect-deterring herbs or by incorporating organic compost and mulch to add essential nutrients to your soil.
“If you’re starting a new garden and want to till in organic matter, the STIHL KombiSystem with the mini-cultivator attachment is a great multi-task tool,” said Bendrick.
Because it’s sold everywhere and is often on sale, most people use bagged, dyed mulch to freshen up their flower beds. But the truth is, these dyed wood chips contain chemicals that can leach into your soil.
You may also fall for the convenience of rubber mulch, but that’s made of recycled car tires, which are toxic and can transfer chemicals by touch and into the soil as they wear down.
“Instead of colored or rubber mulch, opt for natural wood chips,” recommended Bendrick. “You can use wood bark, pine needles, or other natural materials that break down and add organic material back into the soil.”
As water restrictions have become increasingly widespread, so has artificial turf, but that kind of turf can’t be recycled when it’s old. Eventually, you will see weeds popping up again if your artificial turf is not maintained.
“Most importantly, it’s hot and inorganic, increasing the ‘heat island effect’ that warms up the surrounding environment,” said Bendrick. “Homeowners should consider other lawn alternatives like tall native grasses or drought-tolerant ground covers.” Using local, native, and climate-appropriate plant selections can transform a high-maintenance yard into a beautiful oasis — while saving on water and scaling maintenance to quarterly rather than weekly or monthly.
Ready to hear about practical, easy-to-follow tips that can improve the look as well as the health of your yard? Bendrick recommends embracing the following trends.
Insects are essential for pollinating food sources, and they are also great at cleaning up undesirables in your garden, like feces, dead animals and plants, recycling their nutrients back into the soil.
“Our relationship with creepy crawlies has not always been friendly,” noted Bendrick. “However, there is a resurgence of respect for the insect world and their integral work in balancing the ecosystem in our gardens.”
Rain barrels are great, but they’re limited by their smaller size, leaving lots of water uncollected for use. Passive infiltration and collection pits are great additional catchment methods or alternatives to rain barrels.
“These systems are becoming increasingly popular as they can help recharge groundwater and hold moisture onsite longer, benefiting your lawn and garden in many ways!” Bendrick added.
When it comes to maintaining your yard, there are many options to choose from, but battery-powered tools are in high demand because they provide a low-noise, zero-exhaust emissions, lightweight option that offers power and performance comparable to gas.
For example, Bendrick recommends the STIHL lineup of battery-powered homeowner tools that offer an interchangeable battery compatible with 15 different tools to tackle all your lawn care jobs.
Technically, color never went away, but grey tones have, until recently, dominated rooms and spaces indoors and out.
“Now we’re seeing a warming trend moving in, with a focus on earth tones like soft tans and natural greens, with pops of accent colors, like Peach Fuzz, Pantone’s color of the year, to create a warm yet vibrant and personalized space,” said Bendrick.
Tech has moved to the garden! Thanks to the latest technology, you can even go beyond irrigation systems that turn off when it’s raining or lighting apps that allow you to customize your backyard mood from your phone.
“Today, you can even use autonomous lawnmowers like the STIHL iMOW® for smart landscapes that reduce your maintenance tasks,” said Bendrick, “and offer quite the conversation piece as well.”
Knowing the latest trends in yard and garden design, care and maintenance can help you create a more eco-friendly, livable outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.
Visit STIHLUSA.com for more tips from Sara to help your lawn and garden thrive.
2024-03-18T10:01:01
(BPT) – Spring is almost here! The rising temperatures serve as a reminder that it’s time to start preparing for outdoor entertaining. Whether you are looking to completely revamp your setup or simply add a few upgrades, there are many ways to make your yard feel larger, more comfortable and more useful, no matter the time of day.
Here are eight simple upgrades to get the most out of your patio:
1. Join the Outdoors with the Indoors
Create an area that acts as a gateway between your home and the outdoors. Using similar colors, textures and themes enhances the flow of your yard and creates an inviting atmosphere. A patio provides an excellent opportunity to blend indoor and outdoor living. You don’t need to limit mealtimes to your kitchen table; instead, you can explore dining alfresco no matter the time of day.
2. Make the Outdoor Dining Table Your Focal Point
The patio table is one of the most important aspects of your yard, and it should be the center of attention. You can invest in affordable furniture or make simple upgrades to your current space by purchasing paint and other accessories at Lowe’s. Pair stylish tableware with cozy seating arrangements to create a warm ambiance. Whether you choose to enjoy a breakfast feast as the sun rises or host a dinner party for friends, your patio should serve as a gathering place where the whole crew is invited.
3. Invest in Pieces with Multiple Functions
Invest in versatile furniture and appliances to get the most out of outdoor entertaining without taking up too much valuable floorspace. A modular cooking system like the Charbroil® Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo can help you save space without having to settle for just one thing. You can unlock endless flavor possibilities and effortlessly swap surfaces to cook any meal, any time.
4. Create Sections to Divide Your Space
Build out different sections to divide your space and create intimate gathering spots for you and your guests. Rugs, tables and eclectic seating arrangements can help establish a flow and create designated spaces for your living and dining.
5. Go Bold with Color
Gone are the days of grays and beiges; now, you can try experimenting with bold hues. From bright furniture pieces to vibrant accessories, infusing bold colors can instantly revitalize your outdoor area, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for entertaining.
6. Experiment with Organic Materials and Textures
Incorporating natural textures, such as wood and stone, into your outdoor decor not only adds a touch of authenticity but also creates a connection with nature, fostering a serene and inviting ambiance for outdoor activities and relaxation.
7. Play with Outdoor Lighting
Don’t hold out on outdoor lighting! Explore different options and combinations of lighting solutions like fire pits, torches and string lights to create ambiance, light pathways and generate warmth on cooler nights.
8. Embrace Native Plants
Your garden can foster biodiversity through a diverse selection of native flowers and plants that attract pollinators. Create eye-catching and ecologically sustainable habitats that benefit both wildlife and the environment while adding pops of color to your yard.
Once your outdoor space feels like home, you can start to invite the whole crew over to enjoy it with you over a delicious meal. Explore some of these tasty recipes from Charbroil that you can prepare using the Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo:
Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Simple to create yet sure to impress, these reimagined pancakes elevate familiar ingredients to the extraordinary. Each subtly sweet, custard-like bite is a cloud of culinary bliss, lifting breakfast, brunch or snack time to exhilarating, fluffy peaks of perfection.
Seared Ahi Tuna Bowl: Loaded with sesame-crusted tuna, sweet grilled pineapple, a punch of umami and the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies, this isn’t just an incredible dish — it’s a thing of beauty.
Grilled Banana Split: Undeniably sweet and rich in flavor, the banana split is a fan favorite for good reason. Grilling fruit brings amplified flavors and rich caramelization to the classic vanilla-ice-cream-and-chocolate-syrup-topped banana split.
2024-03-12T13:21:00
(BPT) – Like many sectors, the HVAC industry is no stranger to new challenges, technological advancements and regulatory shifts which in turn can impact homeowners. Today, the sector is buzzing with trends that directly impact homeowners’ comfort, wallet and the planet.
The following insights will help homeowners navigate the evolving HVAC market, enabling them to make informed decisions that benefit their homes and create a more sustainable future.
Decarbonization-Focused Products Offer Sustainability and Savings
In many parts of the country, fossil fuels, such as propane, coal and natural gas, deliver the energy necessary to power furnaces, boilers and water heaters. Using these resources as efficiently as possible is important to saving consumers money and safeguarding the environment. The reality is that the supply of these resources is limited and burning fuels adds harmful greenhouse gases to our atmosphere.
Homeowners concerned about the environment can act to decarbonize their homes, without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Decarbonization is a strategy focused on reducing dependence on resources that produce high levels of carbon emissions and greenhouse gases. The objective of decarbonization is to create a cleaner, more sustainable future that supports the demands and benefits of our modern lifestyle.
With their significant impact on any home’s energy use, HVAC systems are critical in any homeowner’s sustainability and decarbonization journey. Fortunately, the HVAC industry is increasingly championing sustainability, and homeowners today can seek environmentally conscious solutions and companies when making decisions about home heating and cooling equipment. Products that households may consider when following the decarbonization trend are heat pumps, which not only offer efficient temperature control but also contribute to reducing carbon footprints and provide savings on utility bills. For those that may not be familiar, heat pumps offer an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners, and they use the refrigeration cycle to move heat from the outside in, or the inside out, keeping your home at the perfect temperature.
Homeowners should also consider their surrounding environment when selecting a unit. For example, another option that works in all environment types would be a dual fuel system. Often overlooked, a dual fuel system includes a heat pump and gas furnace. On days with colder temperatures, the furnace will ensure that homes stay comfortable despite what’s going on outside.
Leverage New Regulatory Standards to be Clean, Green and Code Compliant
Homeowners often find themselves navigating a maze of regulations impacting a range of home products, including HVAC systems. Starting January 1, 2025, a significant change from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will involve the switch to more sustainable refrigerants.
Rheem®, a forward-thinking industry player and HVAC manufacturer, has been actively preparing its product lines for this transition and offers homeowners product options, such as heat pumps, that can help reduce a user’s environmental footprint.
Explore Financing and Tax Credit Savings
Inflation and higher interest rates can pose challenges to homeowners looking to invest in highly efficient products. Recognizing this, many contractors offer financing options such as Rheem’s KwikComfort® financing. Additionally, and specifically for homeowners, tax incentives such as the IRA come with incentives for homeowners to upgrade and install environmentally friendly equipment and appliances throughout their home. By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill by up to $3,200 and offset some of the upfront costs of making energy-efficient home improvements.
Being a savvy homeowner isn’t just about comfort — it’s about empowerment. By embracing decarbonization and regulatory shifts, homeowners can actively contribute to a greener, more sustainable future while enhancing the comfort and efficiency of their homes and saving money.
2024-03-06T12:51:00
(BPT) – Social media has changed the ways people engage with content and seek inspiration. Thanks to ever-evolving technology and algorithms, you have the ability to find new ideas instantly.
Need a new recipe? Find and follow a chef or home cook on TikTok or Instagram. In a reading rut? Explore reviewers who can share book recommendations for your next read. You can even discover new ways to transform your yard this spring on your social media feeds.
It may seem odd to consider that people use the digital landscape to help them revamp their outdoor living space, but according to a new survey by TruGreen, 40% of Americans do just that.
Are you ready to create an Insta-worthy outdoor space? Check out these three tips to inspire your yard renovation.
1. Return to timeless appeal
Trends may come and go, but you can’t beat the timeless appeal of a healthy landscape. According to the survey, 89% of Americans emphasize the pivotal role of a healthy lawn in that landscape. Without this foundation, you can’t build an attractive outdoor space.
Focusing on the basics is the key to outdoor charm. Over half of Americans say flowers are the quintessential element for creating a visually pleasing outdoor space, closely followed by healthy plants and shrubbery.
2. Talk to the pros when challenges arise
While more Americans are interested in creating beautiful, healthy outdoor spaces, many are not versed in the challenges of landscape upkeep. For example, Americans are most stumped by how to get rid of weeds, followed by a quest for the perfect plant and the proper lawn care schedule.
If you find yourself overwhelmed, it’s best to consult with a company like TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care treatment provider, to help you beautify your outdoor spaces without guesswork.
3. Spend more time outdoors
Longing for beautiful, maintained outdoor spaces, over half of Americans are willing to invest more time outdoors. Not sure what you’re looking for? TruGreen recommends that you:
With expert counsel and a proper maintenance routine, homeowners can achieve an outdoor space they love that’s worthy of showing off on their social media feeds. To learn more and find pros that can help maintain your outdoor living space, visit TruGreen.com.
2024-02-20T19:01:00
(BPT) – When you want to enhance your outdoor living space, consider building with retaining wall units. Segmental retaining wall (SRW) units are the basic building blocks of landscaping, and you will save on design and labor costs when you do it yourself. Whether you want to level a slope, build a sitting wall or add a raised patio, it’s essential to get informed before starting your project.
1. Check local rules. “Call 8-1-1 before you dig” is essential. Do-it-yourselfers also should check with their municipalities and homeowner’s associations for building codes, permits and/or property variance rules. Some municipalities require permits for walls up to four feet tall, although engineering might not be needed for that height with most SRW systems. A retaining wall taller than four feet might require geogrid for soil reinforcement and an approved design by a professional engineer. A landscaping supply store will know local permitting and can identify plans that might require an engineer.
2. Consider where you will buy supplies. A landscaping supply store is a great place to get educated, purchase landscaping products and rent tools such as a compactor. A dedicated landscaping store can help you choose which wall system is best suited to your project, calculate the materials you will need and offer advice before, during and after installation.
“Do-it-yourself customers are the foundation of who we serve at Patio Town stores,” said David Johnson, who manages one of Patio Town’s three locations in St. Paul/Minneapolis. “We have a team that will listen to what customers are thinking of doing, and then offer solutions and options. Should customers decide a project is more than they want to do, we can refer them to our design-build division, Villa Landscapes.”
3. Learn about retaining wall systems. Some systems are easier to install, and some require specialty pieces for corners, curves and steps. The VERSA-LOK Standard retaining wall system is easy to install, and no special pieces are needed to build features. VERSA-LOK Standard is a solid unit that is renowned for ease of installation as there are no voids in the unit to fill. Splitting the unit allows you to create curves, corners, columns, multi-angled corners, freestanding walls and steps.
4. Mark off, measure and photograph the project area. In addition to giving details about your project to your landscaping supplier, you might need advice to determine soil conditions or stormwater requirements. For example, clay soil retains water so it may need amendment, or the wall might require drainage pipes based on soil and other factors. You can discuss the content of your soil with landscaping store staff, who can offer ideas on remediation if needed.
5. It is all about the base. The base is the most important course. Retaining wall manufacturers and landscape suppliers can offer product-specific details on how to excavate and prep the base. After excavating a trench for the base, the subsoil should be compacted before a few inches of gravel is added and compacted. Make sure the area is level before starting the base course, which should be embedded half of the block’s height at a minimum. With solid units such as VERSA-LOK, there is no need for concrete footings as the base course serves as the foundation.
6. Finishing touches to consider. After each unit is placed and leveled, fill and compact the gravel placed behind the wall. Finish off your wall with capstone units that can be secured with adhesive; be sure your adhesive has elastic properties as modular walls are flexible so they can withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
Another important point to consider is the weather! Bad weather can hinder your installation. With a little planning, know-how and a trusted landscaping store that shares advice throughout your project, you can build successfully with retaining wall units.
2024-02-07T07:01:00
(BPT) – Many homebuyers are rethinking their plans given market challenges. RE/MAX offers some key takeaways from its survey on the creative ways buyers are achieving homeownership.
2024-02-07T07:01:00
(BPT) – At first glance, the value of some home improvements can be hard to see — particularly when the improvements are in the attic. While a gleaming kitchen backsplash, an expansive patio deck or luxury spa bath are all pleasing to the eye, the value of other home improvements may best be appreciated through improved indoor comfort. Installed in the attic area, insulation and ductwork are two examples of often overlooked upgrades that can impact comfort as well as energy savings. Case in point: EPA estimates that homeowners can save up to 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces, and accessible basement rim joists.1
Installing adequate levels of attic insulation and repairing or replacing attic ductwork can help address the root cause of problems such as increased dust, hot/cold rooms or high energy bills. But as the attic area is infrequently accessed, how do you know if a problem exists? Let’s start with insulation. Simply confirming its presence in the attic is not enough. Following are some signs that your home’s attic may need additional insulation:
A sufficient amount of attic insulation, typically measured in inches, is necessary to help protect against warm air moving into colder parts of the building envelope. A qualified HVAC technician should be able to evaluate your attic and help you understand how much energy you could conserve by insulating to a specified thickness. For example, contractors designated as AirCare® Professionals are trained by Owens Corning and equipped with tools to assess insulation levels and explain how your home’s attic insulation compares to recommended standards.
Leaks and poor connections in attic ductwork can also lead to problems in other parts of the home. According to ENERGY STAR about 20% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.2 ENERGY STAR also notes that tightly sealed and well-insulated ducts found in qualified homes can reduce annual utility bills by $120 or more.2 Following are some indicators of a problem with a home’s attic ductwork:
An AirCare® Professional is trained to evaluate the pressure of air running through your home’s ductwork and may use special thermal technology tools that allow you to “see” where air is escaping. He or she also will evaluate the system for loose connections or areas where air may be leaking out of the system. Joints and connections will be evaluated to ensure the ductwork is properly sealed to keep conditioned air inside and help prevent particulates in the attic from entering ducts. To find an AirCare® Professional please visit the online locator at HVAC Contractor Locator | Insulation | Owens Corning.
Ready to get a start on your 2024 home improvements? Don’t lose sight of opportunities in the attic to boost comfort and energy savings.
Savings may vary. Find out why at EnergyStar.gov.
1 Energy Star. (n.d.) Methodology for estimated energy savings from cost-effective air sealing and insulating. U.S. EPA. Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings from Cost-Effective Air Sealing and Insulating | ENERGY STAR
2 Energy Star. (n.d.) Efficient Duct Systems. U.S. EPA. Microsoft Word – Duct Systems_072307.doc (energystar.gov)
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