Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2026-03-26T08:01:00

(BPT) – For homeowners looking to refresh their home without taking on a major renovation and renters who are unable to make significant changes to their living spaces, affordable do-it-yourself (DIY) upgrades can be the best way to achieve a significant transformation.

While often overlooked, today’s advanced smart window treatments can be a quick and easy way to enhance comfort, convenience, energy efficiency and style in a single afternoon. DIY motorized shades that are controlled either by remote, voice or an app are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and renters.

A trusted brand that has been welcomed into American homes for more than a century is turning the heads of designers, home builders and consumers with a new smart shade that is revolutionizing the way we think about shades available at retail. GE smart shades are premium, reliable, game-changing products that deliver the sleek and modern look and feel of custom shades but can be installed by nearly anyone in five minutes or less.

One standout feature of GE smart shades is the clean design of its hardware. During installation, mounting hardware that can be secured into a wall with only three screws is tucked neatly out of sight, giving the shades a smooth, tailored finish that instantly elevates a room. Today, DIYers can choose from crisp white or modern gray fabric — available in blackout for bedrooms or translucent for soft filtered light — paired with durable aluminum trim for a premium, built-in feel.

Unlike manual shades, today’s smart shades deliver value beyond the hardware by providing software-driven control. As interior design trends veer toward more responsive, efficient and automated experiences in the home, smart control has quickly risen to the top of the priority list. GE smart shades can be controlled with simple voice commands or scheduled routines. Users can automate shade movements to enhance privacy, regulate indoor temperatures or manage natural light on a custom schedule. And for households that still enjoy a tactile option, a pre-paired remote allows for instant, no-app-required control.

GE smart shades also appeal strongly to DIY enthusiasts thanks to the quiet, rechargeable motor. Smooth, low-noise operation makes them ideal for bedrooms, nurseries and media rooms — spaces where serenity matters most. Many smart shades on the market now emphasize quiet, reliable motors as a key performance metric, reinforcing this feature as a meaningful advantage for everyday living. With long-lasting battery performance and simple USB-C charging in place, upkeep stays minimal.

Lastly, craftsmanship and peace of mind are major GE smart shade selling points. Assembled by hand in Charleston, South Carolina, and rigorously tested to ensure smooth and flawless operation, GE smart shades are backed by a two-year limited warranty. This commitment to quality for which GE-branded products are known is appreciated by DIYers investing their own money, time and energy into home improvements.

GE smart shades are available now at Amazon.com and Shop.GELighting.com in sizes that are pre-cut for today’s most common window sizes. With prices starting at $299.99, the shades are within reach for homeowners and renters seeking to boost both function and style without calling in a contractor.

Whether refreshing a single room or giving the whole home a modern edge, shades are quickly emerging as one of the most rewarding — and surprisingly simple — DIY upgrades. All signs point toward smart motorized shades as the future of window treatments for homeowners and renters looking to get more from their shades.

2026-03-26T01:01:00

(BPT) – Creating your dream backyard starts with a clear plan and the right materials. A well-designed patio turns any outdoor area into a comfortable extension of your home — perfect for relaxing, entertaining and spending more time outside.

Whether you’re planning a full backyard transformation or refreshing a smaller outdoor space, the most successful patio designs focus on a few key elements:

• A strong foundation: Durable materials like concrete pavers offer long-lasting performance and design flexibility.
• Purposeful layout: Creating defined zones for dining, lounging and gathering helps your outdoor space function like an extension of your home.
• Integrated features: Fire pits, outdoor kitchens and seating walls add comfort and usability when incorporated into the original design plan.
• Thoughtful style choices: Coordinated colors, textures and patterns help create a cohesive look that complements your home.

With its innovative range of flexible paver systems, integrated fire features and modular outdoor kitchen options, Belgard^® helps homeowners create patios that feel cohesive, functional and tailored to their lifestyles.

Here are backyard outdoor living space ideas to help plan your next project.

Start with a smart foundation

Every great patio space begins from the ground up. A strong, well-built foundation creates the opportunity to design an outdoor patio that evolves with your needs. The surface material you choose influences not only how the space looks, but also how it performs over time. High-quality concrete pavers provide a balance of durability and design flexibility, helping homeowners create patios that stand up to weather, foot traffic and changing rhythms of everyday life.

When it comes to outdoor living, it’s more than just a block of concrete. Because pavers are highly engineered and installed as individual units over a prepared base, they’re easier to move or repair compared to traditional poured concrete slabs.

Pavers also inspire creative freedom. From sleek contemporary profiles to textured, stone-inspired finishes, Belgard’s product collections include modular pavers in a wide range of sizes, shapes and finishes that support modern or traditional home styles. Combined with features like the Belgard Elements™ line of outdoor kitchen accessories and fire and water features, these materials help transform a simple patio into your dream backyard space.

Design with clear purpose and seamless flow

The most successful backyard patios begin with a vision of how the space will function. Larger yards benefit from clearly defined zones, much like rooms inside your home. For example, a dining area positioned near the house keeps entertaining easy and convenient, while a lounge area around a fire pit creates a natural gathering point.

To better imagine how to use your space, try visual planning tools like Belgard Rooms with Augmented Reality (AR) to help homeowners and contractors explore layout possibilities. Seeing how patios, pathways and desired features fit the overall outdoor environment makes it easier to create natural flow and proportion. For smaller backyards, a thoughtful layout matters even more.

Design decisions also impact the look and feel of any space. For example, a consistent color palette and streamlined paver selection helps compact patios feel more expansive. Larger-format pavers reduce visual clutter, while directional patterns like running bond or diagonal layouts can enhance spaciousness.

Integrate outdoor patio features from the beginning

A truly functional patio considers more than just the surface. Fire pits, fireplaces and outdoor kitchens should be incorporated into the original plan, rather than treated as afterthoughts. Designing these elements together ensures balanced proportions, seamless transitions and long-term usability.

Contractors use modular outdoor kitchen systems and coordinated wall elements to build integrated spaces efficiently, offering a polished, intentional result for homeowners. Whether you’re adding a built-in grill island or seating wall around a fire feature, Belgard’s Artforms™ collection helps you tie your space together in a functional, aesthetically cohesive way.

Planning for future additions is also key: A patio designed with later expansion in mind protects your investment and allows the outdoor space to adapt as your lifestyle changes.

Use pattern and color to shape experience

Once the layout is established, pattern selection is the next big decision. Herringbone patterns offer strength for high-traffic areas, while modular layouts introduce architectural interest. Circular or radial designs can anchor fire pits and create a welcoming focal point within your patio plan.

Color coordination is equally important. Warm earth tones create a cozy traditional atmosphere, while cooler grays and blended neutrals lend a more contemporary feel. Coordinating patio colors with your home’s siding, brick or roofing also helps an outdoor space feel integrated rather than added on.

Texture is one design choice that’s often overlooked. Belgard’s Papyrus™ is a paver with a texture reminiscent of handmade textiles or dried earth. Papyrus embodies the idea of biophilic design, which uses nature-inspired elements within built environments. Papyrus blends with the surrounding landscape, offering the look and feel of hand-tooled stone.

Decorative details can further personalize design. Subtle borders, banding or custom accents introduce character without overwhelming the overall aesthetic. These enhancements allow homeowners to express their style while maintaining durability and cohesion.

Now, Papyrus Artforms blends the hand-tooled, organic Papyrus texture with Belgard’s Artforms modular panel system. Artforms offers endless design flexibility for outdoor kitchens, seating walls, fire features and garden accents, adding durable functionality with lasting visual appeal. Its modularity makes outdoor spaces easy to expand or update in the future, achieving high-end results across projects, both big and small, with texture and detail.

Create an outdoor space that reflects your lifestyle

The best backyard patios are personalized. Some homeowners prioritize entertaining and open gathering spaces. Others prefer an intimate nook with layered lighting and comfortable seating. Customize your space and maintain visual harmony with carefully selected modular paver systems and coordinated hardscape elements.

Designing your dream backyard starts with thoughtful planning and premium materials. With the right foundation, layout and finishing details, your backyard patio can become the heart of your home, built for connection, comfort and everyday living.

Visit Belgard.com to get started today.

2026-03-19T13:01:00

(BPT) – Homeowners and designers alike are rethinking what it means for a home to feel modern. Instead of extreme precision or fast-moving trends, there’s a growing desire for spaces that feel calm, expressive and built to last. People want rooms that look intentional, but still feel lived-in, resulting in a renewed appreciation for materials crafted with quality and investment in statement pieces. This shift brings renewed attention to a design movement that has never truly gone out of style: Italian modernism. Known for its expressive geometry, sculptural silhouettes and architectural structure, this influential aesthetic is shaping today’s interiors in fresh, contemporary ways.

A return to expressive geometry

Italian modernism has always celebrated geometry — not as a rigid system, but as a source of emotion and movement. Today’s homeowners are gravitating toward these shapes for their ability to soften a space while still feeling architectural.

The Roccesco™ Bath Collection by Brizo^® is a recent example of this approach. Its name is derived from rocchetto, the Italian word for spool, a reference reflected in the collection’s sculptural forms. Looping arcs, circular forms and silhouettes embody this philosophy, creating a look that feels both timeless and forward-looking.

Customizable craftmanship

A renewed appreciation for craftsmanship is shaping how kitchens and baths are being designed. Natural elements such as stone, metal, glass and wood are increasingly favored not only for their durability, but for the character they bring to a space. Italian modernism has always valued precision, materiality and the idea that everyday objects should be beautiful enough to stand alone as art.

Functional beauty

One of the defining traits of Italian modernism is the belief that beauty and function should support each other. Today’s designers are applying that approach to fixtures that serve as both visual anchors and everyday tools.

The Roccesco™ Halo shower head exemplifies this balance, with precisely angled nozzles that create a funnel-like water flow for a fully immersive experience. Its circular form plays with positive and negative space, resulting in a minimalist profile that remains distinctly sculptural. The Sconce shower head offers a complementary interpretation, blending circular and linear elements to create a silhouette that feels more like a piece of artwork than a traditional fixture.

At a time when interiors are moving away from quick trends, designers are rediscovering the Italian approach to modernism. New collections illustrate how the style continues to evolve, translating historic design ideals into contemporary spaces that prioritize personality, form and function. As homeowners continue to seek interiors that feel personal, sculptural and serene, this style movement shows no sign of fading. Its blend of geometry, craftsmanship and emotional resonance makes it uniquely suited to modern living.

2026-03-13T12:33:00

(BPT) – PVC pipe is one of the most common and popular options for providing communities and homes with clean, safe drinking water. In fact, it’s been in use around the world for more than 70 years. Whether as a replacement for aging infrastructure around the country or for new homes and communities, PVC pipe is a viable, cost-effective solution.

Wondering about PVC pipe? Here are some frequently asked questions, many of which are referenced in the recently published Second Edition of Hanser Publications’ PVC Handbook. Designed for a diverse audience of users, the handbook offers an industry standard on all aspects of PVC makeup and manufacturing.

Q: Is PVC pipe safe for drinking water?

A: According to the PVC Handbook, PVC pipe is absolutely safe for drinking water, and government regulations make sure of it year after year. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that all pipes used for drinking water, PVC included, comply with the rigorous NSF International standard, NSF/ANSI 61: Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects. NSF International uses exhaustive testing methods to establish independent standards to ensure the safety of drinking water.

Q: Does PVC pipe melt in wildfires?

A: This is a common misperception. Because most PVC water supply pipe is buried underground to a sufficient depth, it’s not exposed to that level of fire in a wildfire situation that will destroy the pipe or impair its functionality. In general, the molecular structure of PVC prevents the material from ever truly melting to a liquid condition, but it does soften enough at hot temperatures used in extrusion processes to be able to form the PVC into pipe.

Q: Does PVC pipe degrade or release chemicals when exposed to disinfectants?

A: Water utilities use chlorinated disinfectants to kill harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli, in drinking water. PVC pipe is inherently resistant to chlorinated disinfectants due to the polar nature of the polymer. The fact that PVC pipe is so widely used for drinking water service and its longevity for use in the presence of disinfectant byproducts is testimony to its chemical resistance.

Q: How long does PVC pipe last?

A: Testing of in-service water systems from around the world shows that PVC pipes have a service life in excess of 100 years. In fact, a 2023 report on water main breaks in the U.S. and Canada by Utah State University found that PVC pipe has the lowest overall failure rate compared to three other commonly used piping materials.

Q: Does PVC pipe become brittle with age or cold temperatures?

A: According to the PVC Handbook, samples of pipe have been extracted after being in the ground for 70 years, and they have retained enough properties to meet the performance standards required of the original pipe. PVC pipe retains its functionality in cold temperatures and has been successfully used in various climatic regions around the world.

Q: Is PVC pipe heat resistant?

A: In general, PVC pipe is pressure rated up to 140 degrees. Hot water lines use CPVC pipe, which is code-approved for use in homes and pressure rated up to 180 degrees. In extreme conditions like a house fire, PVC pipes behind the walls are typically not exposed to the intense heat of the fire until the home is fully engulfed. It will take sustained heat and fire to cause it to sag or lose strength.

Q: Is PVC pipe environmentally sustainable?

A: PVC pipe has several attributes that contribute to its sustainability. From a life cycle and carbon footprint perspective, an assessment by Sustainable Solutions Corporation revealed that PVC pipe has lower environmental impacts — lower embodied energy, lower use-phase energy and longer life attributes — compared to pipe used in equivalent applications made from materials like iron, cement and clay. When considering the impacts throughout the product life cycle, PVC pipes require much less energy to manufacture and transport, and they can operate for more than a century and need fewer replacements over their lifetime.

Finally, while PVC pipe materials are formulated to be durable, they also have the potential to be reused or recycled at the end of their life. Thanks to ongoing efforts by manufacturers and the industry as a whole, there is a strong and growing market that enables the reuse of these valuable materials to make new durable products.

All U.S. producers of PVC resins are certified either Gold or Silver in the Vinyl Sustainability Council’s +Vantage Vinyl™ program. +Vantage Vinyl-verified companies are the industry’s sustainability leaders actively working to improve their sustainability performance in each of the industry’s impact categories — resource efficiency, emissions, and people & community. Their sustainability efforts are verified by GreenCircle Certified, an independent third-party.

Communities rely on PVC pipe

Whether replacing aging infrastructure or providing clean water in new homes, PVC pipes provide a durable, reliable and safe solution. To learn more, visit www.vinylinfo.org.

Ned Monroe is CEO of the Vinyl Institute.

2026-03-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – Every construction project, property transaction, infrastructure upgrade and urban planning project begins with one essential requirement: accurate data about the land. That’s where land surveys usually come into play. Think of it like a map with legal power — it turns unclear lines on paper into precise measurements on the ground. Surveyors measure and map terrain features, determine property boundaries, calculate elevations and define spatial relationships that guide critical decisions. Without a land survey, decisions are based on assumptions. With a land survey, you have clarity and legal protection.

Yet, despite its essential role in modern development projects, land surveying has traditionally remained a “low-tech” industry dominated by a tripod-mounted measurement tool popularized in the 1980s called a “total station.” As a result, land surveys can often be time-consuming, hazardous and limited in the type and amount of data they provide. On larger sites or hilly terrains, surveyors usually require multiple days or even weeks to complete a job, and teams frequently operate in risky conditions or difficult-to-access areas: near traffic, on active construction zones and on rooftops. This increases the risk of injury for surveyors while also limiting the efficiency and precision of data collection.

Innovation does exist in the surveying industry, but adoption of modern technologies remains uneven due to costs, difficulty of drone-captured data conversion and regulations. Drone as a Service (DaaS) is changing that by introducing a new variable in the equation: accessibility.

With a fast-growing network of 23 locations across the United States and Europe, DaaS provides commercial and government clients with drone-powered land surveying services. But rather than simply selling drones to customers and letting them deal with the rest, DaaS delivers a fully turnkey solution that modernizes land surveying, while eliminating the barriers that have historically slowed innovation. DaaS users do not need to worry about investing in costly equipment, training pilots or getting the right certifications. From the drones themselves to the licensed pilots and data processing, DaaS handles drone-based land surveys from end to end for customers across industries. By suppressing these key barriers to technology adoption, DaaS opens the door to a new area of efficiency and innovation in the land survey industry.

Faster, safer and more precise: Drones as the key to modernizing land surveying

Leveraging drone technology enables DaaS to dramatically improve speed, precision and safety in land surveys. With the help of drones, what once required days or weeks of fieldwork can often be completed in a fraction of the time. Drone-based surveys conducted by DaaS can map large sites up to 80% faster than traditional ground methods. Instead of waiting sometimes weeks for fragmented insights, stakeholders receive precise deliverables within 24 to 48 hours. For industries operating on tight margins and aggressive timelines, this level of responsiveness can create a decisive competitive advantage.

Beyond speed, drone-based surveys provide more complex and detailed data on the nature and features of a site. DaaS drones are equipped with advanced, interchangeable onboard technologies, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), multispectral sensors, thermal sensors and photogrammetry systems. These tools allow surveyors to collect high-resolution aerial imagery, detailed 3D models, volumetric measurements and detailed terrain analyses. The result is more comprehensive site intelligence with minimal blind spots and significantly reduced potential for human error. Executives and decision-makers are provided with the insights they need to improve processes, cut costs and meet their targets on time.

From a safety perspective, drone integration represents a significant step forward for the land surveying industry. Rather than exposing surveyors to high-risk environments for extended periods of time, drone surveys can capture full-site coverage quickly and safely. Beyond protecting workers, this reduction in field risk translates into lower liability exposure and fewer unforeseen operational expenses. By minimizing time spent in dangerous work conditions while maximizing data coverage, DaaS enhances both safety and financial performance.

A cross-industry solution built for scale

From commercial buildings and real estate to construction sites and local government public works, many industries rely on land surveys as a basis for their operations. Depending on each project’s size, location and specific needs, a survey can take many different forms. In construction, developers rely on accurate topographic, volume and as-built surveys to maintain timelines and budgets. In real estate, boundary and ALTA surveys support transactions and compliance, while local governments and urban planning agencies depend on elevation certificates, right-of-way surveys and wetlands delineation to guide infrastructure and environmental decisions.

DaaS’s strength lies in its scalability and adaptability. With 23 locations globally and a diverse drone fleet, the company delivers a broad spectrum of land surveying services, tailoring each survey to site size, terrain conditions, required data outputs and project timelines. Because drones can efficiently scale from small sites to expansive developments across varied terrain, DaaS offers a solution that grows with its customers.

Democratizing the use of drones to drive innovation in “low-tech” industries

Drone as a Service is a business division under parent company ZenaTech. Shaun Passley, Ph.D., the company’s CEO, expects to expand the portfolio of drone-based services to include precision agriculture, power-washing, inspection services and warehouse inventory management.

“The extensive capabilities of drones and advanced data, AI and autonomy benefits make them ideal transformation tools for a lot of these traditionally low-tech industries,” Passley said. “From inspection and mapping to logistics and improving crop yields, DaaS is at the forefront of this innovation, solving the issue of dull, dirty or dangerous jobs while providing smart data.”

The company is leading the way in a global drone services market that’s growing at over 36% annually and expected to reach $355 billion by 2032, according to Pragma Market Research. Following the acquisitions of 23 land survey firms in North America over the past year — in Florida, Virginia, California, Oregon, North and South Carolina, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Illinois and Washington State — the company is growing its network of AI-powered drones in the United States. Combining the decade-long expertise of professional surveyors with drone capabilities, DaaS actively drives innovation in the land surveying industry, and it won’t stop there.

By delivering a turnkey, scalable and accessible Drone as a Service model, DaaS is not only modernizing land surveying but also reshaping how essential industries approach data, safety and operational efficiency.

Learn how DaaS can transform your business at DroneAsAService.com.

2026-02-24T17:01:00

(BPT) – The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), run by the National Kitchen + Bath Association (NKBA), the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry, offers a fascinating window into what’s currently trending — and what the future may hold — for the world of home design, appliances and technology.

At this year’s show, it was clear that form and function are increasingly intertwined, with industry experts seeking new ways to give their customers what they demand: sophistication, innovation and streamlined design blended with enhanced functionality for the way people live today. Appliances are not just tools people need, they’re also now an integral part of an overall home aesthetic, with today’s technology making this integration even more seamless.

“Appliance brands have realized that consumers are looking for kitchens that simplify everyday tasks while expanding what is possible in functionality, versatility and style. Manufacturers are delivering with high quality materials and quietly integrated technology,” said Jeremy Parcels, Principal at Parcels Design Studio and SKS Design Collective member.

Standout trends in kitchen and appliance design were demonstrated at KBIS 2026 by leading appliance brands such as SKS and LG Signature that are meeting the moment through their innovative new collections and product launches.

Timeless and intelligent

The 2026 Kitchen Trends Report from the NKBA offers insights into the latest trends, including a strong preference for transitional/timeless kitchen design, with 72 percent of respondents naming that the most popular style over the next three years.

Along with timeless design, today’s customers also seek cutting-edge technology features to make everyday living easier. The NKBA report found that kitchen design is continuing to evolve toward more intelligent, personalized spaces that support modern lifestyles, including smart technology integration. Today’s homeowners seek features including Wi-Fi-enabled, mobile-app controlled appliances, plus clever features like steam cooking and smart, spacious refrigerators.

For example, the new LG Signature “Iconic Collection” shares this aesthetic, pairing timeless modern design with intelligent performance. The collection features refined minimalism, bold materials and signature gold accents that appeal to homeowners looking for a luxurious modern aesthetic. To satisfy the demand for the latest technology to assist in culinary creativity, appliances like the LG Signature 36-inch range with “Gourmet AI” cooking technology deliver precise results while making a confident design statement.

Reflecting broader industry trends shifting toward induction cooking, ultra luxury appliances from SKS offer advanced cooking technologies that bring power, precision and smart design to the kitchen. Their new 36-inch induction pro range, for example, combines a powerful induction cooktop with a full-sized steam-combi oven, introducing a new all-in-one format that consolidates multiple professional cooking technologies into a single luxury appliance. An industry-leading 7,000-watt dual induction element delivers rapid heating and precise control, while flexible cooking zones adapt to cookware for enhanced adaptability, productivity, along with a cooking surface that is cool to the touch. The range is designed with forward-thinking Technicurean home chefs in mind, delivering professional-grade performance and precision with technology that uplevels the at-home cooking experience.

Customization for personalized style

In addition to timeless style and updated tech, today’s home chefs also want a kitchen space that reflects their unique style and approach to cooking. Results from the NKBA report make clear that kitchens are becoming increasingly personalized, multi-purpose hubs. Smarter storage is also in demand, including floor-to-ceiling cabinetry with more drawers, walk-in and butler’s pantries, as well as refrigerators with custom configurations.

Following the personalization shift, the new LG Signature “Tailored” and “Seamless” collections give homeowners the flexibility to design a kitchen that feels distinctly their own. The Tailored Collection emphasizes curated finishes, and distinctive details allow for customized kitchen aesthetics, pairing sophisticated design with advanced performance. The Seamless Collection, which includes the industry’s first ‘built-in depth” slide-in fridge, is designed for flush integration and uninterrupted sightlines, enabling appliances to blend harmoniously with surrounding cabinetry and architectural elements.

Built-in beauty and functionality

According to a recent Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, three out of four homeowners want to incorporate built-in features during their kitchen renovations, aiming to create an integrated design aesthetic that achieves a more minimalist look. The NKBA report echoes this trend, with contemporary/minimalism being the second most popular design trend, just behind transitional/timeless kitchen design.

Driving with this trend, SKS is expanding its vision for the modern ultra-luxury kitchen with a 36-inch column refrigerator and a 36-inch column freezer integrated into one incredible 6-foot-wide unit. Designed to seamlessly integrate into cabinetry, the panel-ready columns support a built-in look while delivering the performance high-end homeowners expect. Reimagined LED lighting, adjustable shelving with “Lift and Go” bins provide flexible storage and clear visibility. AI-powered features like AI Fresh and Smart Ice Plus learn usage patterns to optimize cooling and ice production. The freezer column also includes advanced ice-making technology that produces larger Grand Craft Ice, offering oversized, slow-melting cubes ideal for home entertaining and elevating beverages.

These innovations reflect a broader industry shift toward appliances that serve as design elements and intelligent tools, seamlessly blending into the home while enhancing everyday living, according to Parcels.

He added, “Working with consumers today they expect much more than standard appliances. Kitchens that blend seamlessly into the overall aesthetic of the home are desired now more than ever. Paneled appliances give us the flexibility to deliver on that request while packing the latest in technology wrapped in our beautifully designed spaces.”

Learn more about the next generation of SKS and LG Signature appliances featured at the 2026 KBIS show and more at LG.com and sksappliances.com.

2026-02-11T09:15:00

(BPT) – Spring is the time many homeowners start planning upgrades and new construction projects — and choosing the right design elements and building materials are key to this process. Brick, which was once considered limited in its use and color options, is now playing a major role in giving homes an unforgettable look — inside and out.

Today’s brick offers far more design potential than ever before, seamlessly blending timeless appeal with modern style. General Shale, for example, is redefining what brick can be, offering a wide array of colors, textures and styles that range from classic to cutting-edge.

“Brick is one of the few materials that can feel both timeless and unexpected,” said Charity Honeycutt, owner of Honeybee Styling & Design in Knoxville, Tenn. “The nuance lives in the color — from soft creams, moody charcoals and sun-washed reds — each one telling a different story. When designers lean into that range, brick becomes less about structure and more about atmosphere.”

If you’re not sure how to get started using brick, check out General Shale’s 2026 Lookbook. This curated lineup of trend-forward, authentic brick for interiors and exteriors offers DIYers and design professionals inspiration to create modern spaces with a time-tested material.

Kitchens and bathrooms

When creating a modern kitchen or spa-like bathroom, homeowners often opt for cool, calming tones. Because of the natural, earthy, red tones, it’s easy to dismiss brick as an option. However, thin bricks glazed in rich blues can impart a calming tone and luxurious feeling to these spaces.

For example, Aquavue glazed brick brings depth and dimension to interiors with its rich and calming aquatic blue tone that evokes the vibrancy of water. The handcrafted glazed finish reflects light with a subtle sheen, transforming an ordinary surface into striking backsplashes and countertops.

Office and creative spaces

Bright white colors are perfect for spaces that embrace light and openness. To achieve a polished, contemporary look in offices, gathering areas and creative spaces, choose a white glazed thin brick like Driftvue.

Like Aquavue, Driftvue offers a subtle reflective sheen that showcases how white brick tile delivers timeless and effortless style to interior spaces. Its streamlined profile and versatile finish blend seamlessly into a modern design wherever you plan to spend long periods of time in deep thought and creation.

Another striking option is Driftvue’s color cousin, Limestone Elevation. The refined thin brick with its soft white hue and subtly textured surface is perfect for minimalist offices and gallery-style walls.

Living rooms and entryways

It may be unglazed, but traditionally cut brick for interior design stands out in living rooms and entryways, adding warmth and ruggedness to these spaces. You can use earth-toned bricks like Saddletown and Ghosttown to create organic artisanal textures on full accent walls or when designing half walls around an entire room.

To showcase brick’s traditional aesthetic and strength, use full-size bricks in warm tones with subtle texture variations like Peppermill. When used to create an arched entryway, frame a fireplace or highlight a cozy reading nook, it reflects the power of classic brickwork and adds character and coziness to interiors.

Exteriors

Brick as an exterior design feature is the classic use of this durable material, but that doesn’t mean it’s limited to traditional home design. A brick like Midnight Mist delivers bold sophistication and style with its rich, deep charcoal hue, offering homeowners, builders and designers maximum curb appeal impact.

Also, Midnight Mist’s dark charcoal color is incredibly versatile style-wise, pairing well with modern and traditional designs by highlighting architectural lines and complementing a wide range of finishes. And, as a full-size brick, homeowners can count on its strength and durability, making it a powerful choice for projects that command durability, elegance and lasting performance.

For homeowners and designers seeking the timeless charm of classic brickwork with warm tones and subtle textural variation, Hometown brick is an excellent choice. Rooted in tradition and made for modern living, Hometown’s inviting palette evokes comfort and belonging, making it a natural choice for exterior facades that speak to heritage and durability.

Pro tip: When used to create accent walls, fireplaces and entryways, Midnight Mist adds a dramatic flair to interior design features, creating a truly striking focal point in any room. Similarly, Hometown is ideal for creating cozy interiors with warmth and character.

Building a strong design foundation, one brick at a time

For those who want to elevate interior and exterior spaces with a sustainable, functional and tactile material, brick is the way to go. To find more brick options and see design inspirations for your indoor home projects, visit GeneralShale.com.

2026-01-21T09:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Waterborne floor finishing systems are water-based and environmentally friendly.
• With low VOCs, waterborne options are better for indoor air quality.
• Waterborne finishes are durable and can last a decade or more.
• Always use cleaning and maintenance products made for your type of flooring.

Does your home have hardwood floors or would you like them in the future? If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. More than half (61%) of American homeowners say wood flooring was a priority when deciding to design or purchase their home, according to the 2026 Bona Floorcast report.

Hardwood floors are a smart choice, but the finishing system you choose is just as important as the flooring itself. Finishes and sealers can impact the durability and integrity of the flooring, plus some options are more harmful to the home environment than others. Doing your research can help you determine the best system for your home.

“Whether a new build, renovation or refresh, it’s important to research the types of products used to treat your wood floors,” said Matt Casey, Director of Professional Marketing & Bona Certified Craftsman Program, Bona. “When it comes to hardwood floor finish, the best choice is a waterborne finish.”

To help homeowners decide the right option for hardwood floors through 2026 and beyond, Matt answers common questions about waterborne floor finishing systems for hardwood.

Do hardwood floor finishes impact indoor air quality?

Yes, hardwood floor finishes can impact the air quality in your home. Waterborne, sometimes referred to as water-based, is a wood finish system where water is the carrier for resin particles rather than oil or chemicals. Waterborne finishes are durable, sustainable and have low VOC emissions, making them better for the indoor environment. They are safe enough for homeowners, pets, plants and food to remain in the home during the entire finishing process.

Other hardwood floor finishing systems like acid cured (also called Swedish finish) and moisture-cured finishes, which use toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, and oil-modified are high in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

What does off-gassing mean for hardwood floor finishing systems?

VOCs are human-made chemicals present in many household products. Off-gassing occurs when VOCs and other chemicals are emitted from manufactured products during use. While all hardwood finishing systems have some level of VOCs, waterborne are most often the lowest and therefore better for indoor air quality.

Acid-cured and oil-modified finishes have high VOC levels ranging from 275 to more than 700. Waterborne finishes are considered low VOC typically at 150 or less.

What is GREENGUARD Certification?

It’s smart to look for hardwood floor finishing systems with UL GREENGUARD Certification. GREENGUARD is a third-party organization that ensures products used for indoor spaces meet strict chemical emission limits.

For example, Bona Traffic HD is a high-durability waterborne finish that is GREENGUARD Gold certified. The GREENGUARD Gold certification has stricter criteria and considers safety factors for sensitive individuals like children and the elderly.

How long will waterborne hardwood floor finish last?

Advancements in waterborne finishing systems mean they are more durable than ever. High-quality waterborne floor finishes can often last well over 10 years depending on use and maintenance. Plus, unlike oil-based polyurethane that will amber over time, the color of waterborne finishes tends to maintain a more natural look.

Do waterborne finishes dry quickly?

Getting back to normal life as soon as possible is a priority when researching hardwood finishing systems. A waterborne finish is ready to walk on hours before an oil-based polyurethane finish dries. For example, Bona Traffic HD dries within two to three hours before it can be walked on in socks, with a full cure happening in three days.

“Investing in waterborne finishing systems for hardwood flooring is a smart choice for homeowners,” said Matt. “They create durable floors, allow for a range of color options and support a healthier home and environment.”

How do you best care for hardwood flooring?

Proper maintenance keeps floors looking their best and extends their lifespan. When choosing cleaning products, opt for a microfiber mop, which controls moisture better than a traditional string mop. Use a pH-neutral, residue-free cleaner formulated specifically for your type of wood flooring. The right cleaning products protect the finish and keep newly refinished floors looking beautiful longer.

To learn more about the benefits of waterborne flooring systems visit Bona.com.

2026-01-19T23:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re looking into new construction for your next home, you’ll want to be sure it’s fire safe. The nature and intensity of house fires have changed over the years. They can become deadly in as little as two minutes, leaving little time to escape.

Why? House fires are hotter, faster and more dangerous because today’s homes are filled with products that burn quickly and produce toxic smoke. These include synthetics, plastics, lithium-ion batteries and more. Smoke alarms warn when there is smoke, but occupants must still escape. Fire sprinklers are the only technology that can automatically stop a fire from becoming deadly.

How home fire sprinklers work

Fire sprinkler technology is simple. When a fire starts, high heat activates the fire sprinkler closest to the fire. Because the water is applied directly on the fire during its initial stages, both flames and smoke are reduced, giving residents more time to escape and allowing the fire department time to respond. Home fire sprinklers do not all go off at once. Ninety percent of fires are contained by the operation of just one sprinkler. A home fire can be effectively controlled or even extinguished by home fire sprinklers, protecting families and firefighters alike.

Fire sprinklers protect property because they keep the fire small, and little water is used to control or extinguish the fire. A home fire sprinkler uses about 15 gallons per minute compared to firefighter hoses that use 250 gallons per minute.

A fire sprinkler success story

One example of how effective this technology can be is the city of Scottsdale, Arizona, which passed an ordinance in 1986 requiring all new-construction homes to include fire sprinklers. Now, more than half of the housing stock in Scottsdale is protected with fire sprinklers.

The result? The city of Scottsdale’s fire loss data falls below the national average. Scottsdale has also saved millions of dollars in infrastructure for the water distribution system, because the sprinkler requirement has allowed them to use smaller pipes and pumps, and to safely space fire hydrants further apart. Homes with sprinklers experienced less fire damage as well as reduced water damage, saving homeowners thousands of dollars.

Even more importantly, data from the first 15 years after the ordinance was passed showed that there were no deaths from home fires in sprinklered homes, and the lives of 13 people who would have likely died without sprinklers were saved.

The importance of building codes to ensure fire safety

While historically, fire sprinklers have been most commonly used in commercial buildings, many of today’s building codes now require new homes to have fire sprinklers installed to combat the modern reality of home fires.

However, there are some communities where home fire sprinklers have been omitted from building codes, putting those residents at risk. The resistance to fire sprinkler codes has often been due to misinformation about the cost of installation, or a misunderstanding of just how dangerous today’s house fires can be.

“Fire sprinklers buy residents time to get out of homes while our responders work to get there, but when our office first took a run at trying to initiate a local fire sprinkler ordinance, it was met with a lot of opposition from builders and developers,” said Kevin Bergstrom, deputy fire marshal at the Camas/Washougal Fire Department in Camas, Washington. Bergstrom and his crew helped developers see the value of home fire sprinklers. “Our biggest success has been six home fire sprinkler saves. The most recent was a lithium-ion battery in a charger, where one fire sprinkler extinguished the fire. I think every community can be successful in protecting their citizens.”

What you can do

Before searching for a new build to buy in your area, check your local fire marshal or building department to ask if home fire sprinklers are required where you plan to build. It’s also a good idea to ask about home fire sprinklers during the home buying process. Home fire sprinklers are a simple life-saving technology that new homes should have, whether or not your area requires them.

To learn more about why your new home should have sprinklers, visit HomeFireSprinkler.org.

2026-01-08T00:01:01

(BPT) – When it comes to insurance, most people know the obvious things that are covered: car accidents, house fires or theft. But it can go beyond the basics, protecting you from disasters that could otherwise leave you with huge, unexpected bills.

Here are six everyday scenarios that insurance may cover.

1. Water backup from a clogged sewer line

Imagine hosting a dinner party when suddenly, your bathroom floods thanks to a backed-up sewer line. It’s messy, expensive and most likely not covered by a standard homeowner’s policy. Water backup coverage is designed for just this situation. It helps cover the cost of water damage caused by backed-up drains or sump pump failures.

2. Your furnace quits during a winter cold snap

A sudden breakdown of equipment in your home can be inconvenient and expensive. When your furnace suddenly stops working due to a mechanical or electrical failure, Mechanical Breakdown Coverage could step in. Mechanical breakdown covers repairs or replacement for essential systems like heating, cooling and even kitchen appliances.

3. A tree falls on your car during a storm

You park your car in the driveway, and a sudden windstorm sends a neighbor’s tree crashing down on it. Is it covered? Yes, if you carry comprehensive auto insurance. But what if your home is also affected by the storm? If your auto and homeowner’s policies are bundled, you may benefit even more. Bundling can streamline the claims process, reduce paperwork and unlock potential discounts. And with Acuity, you only pay one deductible instead of separate deductibles for your home and car, making recovery faster, easier and even more affordable.

4. The water line running to your home bursts

Many homeowners don’t realize they are responsible for the underground piping and wiring that runs from the street to their home. Service Line Coverage may help pay for excavation, repair and even landscaping restoration after a covered service line failure.

5. A storm damages one side of your home’s siding

Consider this scenario: after a strong storm, your homeowner’s policy pays to replace the damaged siding on one side of your house. Only then do you find out the new panels don’t match the rest. This can occur because of fading, discontinued materials or color variation, and the mismatch can be frustrating. Matching Siding Coverage helps cover the cost to replace undamaged siding, so everything matches. Acuity’s endorsement includes trim, shutters and fascia, ensuring your home looks just as good as it did before the storm.

6. You wire money to a scammer

You receive an email that looks like it’s from a legitimate business requesting payment. You wire the money, only to find out later the email was fake and the funds went to a scammer. Cyber insurance can help protect against personal wire fraud by covering financial losses and providing support to investigate the incident. With Acuity’s Cyber Suite, you also gain access to tools and resources that help safeguard your identity and prevent future scams.

There’s a standard homeowner’s policy and then there’s real life. While standard home and auto policies are absolutely necessary, your insurance company should care enough to cover you for more. Acuity’s thoughtful coverage options show that they understand real-life risks. So next time you wonder, “Would my insurance cover this?” know that with Acuity and the right coverages, the answer could be yes.