Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

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.

2024-12-20T15:29:00

(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.

2024-12-20T11:01:00

(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/.

2024-12-20T01:01:00

(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.

2024-11-27T07:01:00

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

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

Choose your backsplash tile

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

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

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

Make setting simple

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

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

Grout with ease using pre-mixed grout

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

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

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

2024-11-25T09:01:00

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

She’s the Carpenter: Aesthetic Appeal

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

Emily Made Home: Low Maintenance

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

Wilker Do’s: Easy Installation

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

The Inspired Room: Durability

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

Build and Create Home: Sustainability

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

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

2024-11-25T08:03:00

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

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

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

When you can still repair

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

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

When it’s time to replace

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

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

Replacing a heating system

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

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

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