Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2024-11-24T23:01:00

(BPT) – Imagine sitting back and actually enjoying the holiday bustle knowing the gifts for everyone on your list are bought, wrapped and hidden away. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals right around the corner, you could have your shopping done in a snap, and save money, too.

But, finding inspiration for those gifts is a little tricky. Good news! Professional landscape contractor, author, TV host of “I Hate My Yard” and STIHL spokesperson Sara Bendrick can help with that. Here are Sara’s best gift ideas for the gardener or lawn enthusiast in your life.

Get to pruning!

Late fall and early winter is the time to prune trees and bushes while they are dormant. The STIHL GTA 26 is a versatile battery-powered garden pruner that offers high cutting performance, power and precision in a lightweight handheld tool. Whether it’s cutting back small to mid-sized tree branches, pruning hedges, cutting away errant Christmas tree branches or trimming the trunk to fit in your tree stand, this is a great tool for the job.

For that garden of the month look

If you have friends or family who want to get into gardening, or just enjoy the fun of getting a package in the mail every month, check out Plantfix’s monthly subscription boxes. These are kits that contain seed packs, soil, planters or mini greenhouses, planting and care instructions and more. Choose a home garden theme, which lets you grow your own food with herb and vegetable seeds, or an ornamental garden theme, which comes with seeds for houseplants, succulents and more. Hint: These are great for teens, too.

Keep it clean and tidy

During the winter months, many gardeners bring their gardening inside their greenhouses, basements and porches for projects like repotting plants or starting seeds. If you’ve done it, you know it makes a mess, and the STIHL SEA 20 battery-powered, handheld vacuum is the perfect, lightweight clean-up tool. Hint: this is also a great tool to vac around the base of your Christmas tree to clean up those needles.

Embrace nature in your garden

Looking for the perfect gift for a gardening enthusiast who loves birds? Consider a bird feeder with a built-in camera! This innovative device not only attracts a variety of birds to your garden, enhancing the natural beauty and biodiversity of your outdoor space, but also captures stunning close-up photos and videos of the birds in action.

Achieve a prize-winning garden

Whether you’re trimming ornamental plants or small shrubs, the STIHL HSA 26 battery-powered garden shears deliver unparalleled precision in a lightweight package. These are perfect for garden lovers who appreciate artistry and desire a neatly trimmed, prize-winning garden look. They’re lightweight, too, and come with two interchangeable blades included, so you can trim those shrubs like an artist.

The lawn and garden lovers on your list will be delighted to find these gifts wrapped up under the tree. Need more inspiration? Find more great gift ideas from the pros in the STIHL Gift Guide.

2024-11-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – Looking to create unique, heartfelt woodworking gifts for your friends and family this holiday season? With Minwax^®, crafting personalized gifts and decorations is easier than you think! Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, Minwax^® makes it simple to elevate your holiday celebrations with its easy-to-use products.

Minwax^® offers a complete lineup of wood finishing products for all your holiday projects, including stains, sealers and wood care solutions. Minwax^® stains enhance the natural beauty of wood, ensuring you achieve the perfect look, every time. With 240+ colors available in oil- and water-based finishes, you can easily find the perfect shade for your holiday décor and gifting projects.

To get you started, check out these fun projects from five top DIY-ers to help you create memorable keepsakes for your loved ones and decor that captures the spirit of the season.

1. Wooden Christmas trees to welcome the season

To make simple yet elegant holiday decorations that bring a festive touch to your home, Jenna Smith (@DIYwithJenna) has created this Pinterest-inspired project to put your home in the holiday mood — or to give as gifts. Smith describes herself as a “maker of pretty things,” from beautiful decor to handcrafted wreaths and more.

For this project, you’ll craft a Christmas tree from 2×4″ pine wood planks, using Minwax^® Oil-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to prepare the wood, followed by Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Penetrating Oil-Based Wood Stain in Espresso for rich color (or any stain color of your choosing). Seal your creation with Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Topcoat for lasting protection and apply each layer smoothly with a Purdy^® brush. You’ll also need a drill and screws to assemble the pieces.

If you’re planning to set your tree outdoors, you should replace the Polycrylic^® Topcoat with Minwax^® Indoor/Outdoor Helmsman^® Spar Urethane for better protection. Your finished piece can beautifully adorn your front porch or entryway to greet holiday guests or bring seasonal charm to any space. For an extra-festive touch, embellish your tree with greenery like spruce boughs, holly or pinecones.

2. DIY candle holders for tablescapes or gifts

Perfect for dressing up your holiday table or gifting to someone special, Lucia Mallea (@luciamallea) shares her playful and colorful candle holders created from wooden cubes. “They’ll make the most adorable holiday gifts,” said Mallea, a digital creator, Latina artist and maker from Miami, Florida.

To create Mallea’s candle holders, you’ll need wooden cubes, a drill and Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-based Stain, either Solid or Semi-Transparent, in three colors of your choice. Mallea chose Petal Pink, Juniper Mist and Lemon for her candle holders — a cheerful palette. You’ll also need Minwax^® Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner and Polycrylic^® Max.

For a professional-looking finish, follow these simple steps:

• Prepare the wood: Sand the wooden cubes with medium- and fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface. Apply the Minwax^® Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner, especially if you’re using soft or porous wood, to ensure an even stain application.
• Apply wood stain: Choose your preferred stain colors and test on a hidden spot or a scrap piece of wood to confirm the look. Apply the stain evenly on each cube to bring out the desired color.
• Add a protective finish: After the stain has dried, apply a clear protective coat using Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Max to seal and protect your work from water, chemicals and wear. Use a light “tip-off” technique with the brush for a smooth, professional finish.

Once stained and sealed, Mallea adds candles to the holders and loves displaying them on her coffee table for a cozy holiday vibe. These candle holders also make the perfect DIY holiday gift — simply wrap them in tissue paper and add a bow!

3. Indoor planters for the plant-lovers in your life

These small planters are a great way to showcase your creativity. Mary Lindloff (@the_handcrafted_haven) draws on her experience with furniture flips and room makeovers for this giftable project anyone can make. Lindloff created two distinct planters to gift, each tailored to the aesthetic of the recipient — one minimalist design in True Black and Pure White, and a colorful version in Violet and Simply White — using Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-Based Semi-Transparent Color Stain.

To get started, you’ll need oak boards, a miter saw, an orbital sander, a nail gun and a tape measure, along with a Purdy^® XL Paint Brush. Additionally, you may need other Minwax^® products such as Stainable Wood Filler (if necessary), Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner and Polycrylic^® Max.

Lindloff showcases her finished planters on a shelf in her living room, where she then adds lush plants to complete the display. “The planters can be customized for the plant-lovers in your life depending on their preferred styles, whether colorful, modern or traditional, and their color preferences,” Lindloff said.

4. Festive peppermint swirl coasters are fun and functional

Influencer and DIY maven Kara Whitten (@kailochic) loves creating projects with a pop of festive color. This holiday season, she’s crafting stylish and functional peppermint swirl coasters as gifts. Stained with Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Water-Based Color Stain in Crimson (Solid), Petal Pink (Semi-Transparent), Hunter Green (Semi-Transparent) and Simply White (Solid), these coasters capture the classic peppermint swirl look — perfect for resting a chilled glass of eggnog or a warm mug of cocoa.

Amber Kemp-Gerstel of DIY blog Damask Love knows there’s a lot to raise a glass to during the holidays and into the new year. Her DIY take on a customized wooden wine gift box begins with an unfinished wood box, easily sourced online, which she stains with Minwax^® Wood Finish^® Color Series in Royal Mahogany (semi-transparent for a rich, festive hue that perfectly embraces the spirit of the season). Sealed with Minwax^® Polycrylic^® Max crystal-clear topcoat to preserve its beauty, Amber completes her gift with a personalized wine bottle label and a holiday bow, making it a truly personal keepsake.

For more inspiration, visit Minwax.com and check out their Holiday Gift Guide at Minwax.com/en/gift-guides. You’ll find a range of projects and gifts that are perfect for the season. Happy DIYing!

2024-11-22T13:01:00

(BPT) – Romulo “Romy” Camargo

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 (Retired)

“Freedom and security are precious gifts that we, as Americans, should never take for granted. We must do all we can to extend our hand in times of need to those who willingly sacrifice each day to provide that freedom and security. While we can never do enough to show gratitude to our nation’s defenders, we can always do a little more.”

— Gary Sinise

Established in 2011 by actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise, the Gary Sinise Foundation honors and supports military service members, first responders, and their families. Just one of its many initiatives, the R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) Program provides mortgage-free, specially adapted smart homes for our nation’s severely wounded heroes.

Over the past several years, Daltile has had the privilege of teaming up with this wonderful foundation. Once again in 2024, Daltile had the honor of donating tile for these homes to help deserving heroes.

“What an organization the Gary Sinise Foundation and R.I.S.E. teams are! Doing so much to honor our heroes in the way they deserve to be honored,” said Paij Thorn-Brooks, vice president of marketing for Daltile. “This is a non-profit organization filled with people of integrity, who truly love our service members, first responders, and their families well. Daltile is very grateful for the opportunity to help honor and serve our heroes and their families through this program.”

Thorn-Brooks continued, “These fully customized homes make a tremendous difference in the lives of the men and women who have served, given so much on behalf of their country, and who continue to persevere against physical challenges. It is a great feeling to see the joy these heroes experience when they enter their new homes for the first time.”

Meet a few (of the many) heroes thriving in their new specially adapted, forever homes:

Bryan Anderson

U.S. Army Sergeant (Retired)

Shane Parsons

U.S. Army Sergeant (Retired)

Jose Armenta

U.S. Marine Corps Corporal (Retired)

For more information on the Gary Sinise Foundation or to donate toward future home builds, please visit: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/rise.

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your home is ready to help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. From preventing frozen pipes to optimizing heating costs, proactive steps can help safeguard your property and well-being.

“A system tune-up at the beginning of the cold weather season can prevent problems and expensive repairs as the temperatures get more extreme later in the winter,” says Jon Ryan, president of Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating based in Minnesota and Honeywell Home HVAC customer. “We’ve been servicing homes for over 70 years — my team has seen it all — and we know that being proactive with system maintenance is one of the best things a homeowner can do to keep their systems running smooth and the home comfortable.”

To prepare your home for the cold, consider these tips:

Schedule a Pro to Check the HVAC System

Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your system to keep it at peak performance. An inspection can check system performance, air filters, and identify indoor air quality opportunities. Professionals also can check the system for harmful cracks, which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide (CO) seeping into the home.

“Have your heating system serviced every year,” suggests Ryan. “As temperatures drop, the use of fuel-burning heaters increases as people try to stay warm, and winter can bring a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning — so be sure your professional tests for cracks in the heating unit.”

Also be sure your utility room and home are properly outfitted with CO alarms.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

By learning your home’s heating trends and adjusting temperatures accordingly, smart thermostats can ensure your home stays comfortable and can help you optimize your energy consumption. For example, during winter, smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat can automatically lower temperatures when you’re away and increase them as you return, creating a cozy atmosphere without wasting energy through Geofencing technology. Thermostats also offer programmable features that let you effortlessly adjust temperatures based on your schedule. By lowering your thermostat just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day, you can potentially cut heating costs by 10% annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, many utilities offer rewards for enrolling in demand response programs that can reduce energy consumption during peak times.

Change Air Filters

Regularly replacing your air filters is a proven way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.

Ryan said: “We get a lot of calls about systems not working properly, and in fact the issue was a result of a dirty air filter.”

Clean air filters also help the overall health of your heating system and allow for better air flow, reducing the stress on your home’s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency. Inspect your filter once a month for signs of dirt or dust buildup.

Protect Your Pipes

Following a cold snap, pipes in the home prone to freezing (i.e., pipes on outside walls, in the basement, or crawl spaces), could burst following the water expansion. As the water melts, it could create costly water damage and disruptions. To help protect your home, cover pipes with insulation and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. For added protection, consider installing a First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector in areas like basements, laundry rooms and utility closets to effectively detect winter leaks or freezing temperatures and help prevent home damage. Talk to a professional plumber about installing an automatic shutoff valve that can turn off the water to the whole home in case of a leak.

Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs. To prevent heat loss, inspect the areas around your windows and doors for gaps. Use weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps and consider applying caulk to larger openings. For extra insulation, install thermal curtains or blinds. By blocking cold air from entering your home, you’ll enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.

“Just a few easy steps can help make sure your family stays cozy and your home is protected from the havoc winter weather can wreak,” said Ryan.

For more winter home preparation tips or to find an HVAC professional visit Honeywellhome.com.

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is just around the corner. Are you prepared to weather potential power outages?

According to data from Climate Central, 80 percent of all major U.S. power outages reported from 2000 to 2023 were caused by weather. Of those weather-related events, 23 percent were specifically caused by winter storms. The cold temperatures, winds and ice can disrupt or damage a single home’s electrical and even the power grid for a whole neighborhood.

Power outages aren’t just inconvenient. They can be dangerous. If your primary source of heat is electric, a power outage can lead to frozen pipes and structural damage. A power outage can even pose a safety risk to your family if you can’t heat your home.

You can’t control the weather. However, you can prepare yourself for winter emergencies with an electric backup power generator.

A reliable source of power in your time of need

You may be familiar with traditional gas-powered generators. While these backups do provide power during emergencies, they can pose more risks than benefits.

Gas generators cannot be used indoors because they give off deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Also, you’ll need to keep gas on hand, which poses a fire risk to your home. Even if you have safely stored gas, you may run out, as power outages can last from a few hours to a few days.

Luckily, gas-powered generators aren’t the only option. Electric-based generators offer a safer, more reliable power source for homeowners when they need it most.

Whether battery or solar-powered, electric generators offer homeowners a safe, efficient and sustainable solution for whole-home power during winter emergencies. Unlike their gas counterparts, electric generators don’t give off poisonous fumes, so they can be safely used indoors.

Without the need for gas, an electric-based power backup can provide continuous, uninterrupted power without the risk of running out of fuel during extended outages. Some electric generators, like the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, are even solar-powered, offering a sustainable, green solution for whole-home power needs.

Power you can count on

Jackery, a leader in innovative solar generators and green off-grid energy solutions, knows how important it is to have trusted home backup power. To that end, the company designed the 5000 Plus to help people stay connected, powered and secured, even in the most difficult and unexpected circumstances.

The powerful, portable and compact electric generator is the lightest in its class, offering homeowners operating convenience. This generator operates quietly and requires zero maintenance, making it an ideal option for indoor use and far safer than traditional gas generators, especially during extreme weather conditions.

When paired with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch (STS), a single 5000 Plus delivers up to 7200W of power. Thanks to its modular design, you can extend the power capacity to fit your needs. When connected to a second unit, users can get up to 14,400W, making it more than sufficient to power a home in the most unpredictable situation.

Since the 5000 Plus is equipped with dual-voltage solar charging, you have options. You can recharge the battery through a high-voltage rooftop solar system or with the company’s portable solar panels. You’ll never run out of fuel or be forced to brave the weather to refuel your generator.

Stay powered all winter long

This winter, keeping your home safe and comfortable, even during severe weather, has never been easier. By prioritizing preparedness and safety with an electric, solar-powered generator, you’re investing in your family’s well-being and your own peace of mind during serious winter storms.

To learn more about electric-based power backups and solar power, visit Jackery.com.

2024-11-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – With multifamily construction projects reaching as high as $700 per square foot this year, effective cost planning is essential for any build. Identifying affordable, yet functional products and services across kitchen and bath spaces is an effective way for contractors to reduce excess spending. Other factors to consider when developing a multifamily build are high-quality materials and reliable warranty programs. See below for helpful tips and solutions contractors and professionals alike can take into action when embarking on a new project.

Quality and Durability

Selecting quality materials will set up contractors for success in their next project. Quality can dictate overall durability, longevity and in general, less maintenance. Lower quality materials can depreciate at a faster pace and oftentimes require more repairs. Decreasing duplicative spending over a material’s life will ultimately create savings that can be leveraged elsewhere.

A cost-effective material contractors often rely on for construction projects is stainless steel. This material is highly valued for its strength and durability, corrosion resistance, minimal maintenance and aesthetic appeal, making it a reliable choice for commercial-type projects. In multifamily units, stainless steel could be used for interior design and aesthetic features like in railings and handrails, elevator doors and cabins, and even fixtures.

Ceramics are another highly durable material often used in construction due to their reliable properties. This is a refractory material, meaning it’s strong enough to withstand high pressures and most chemical compounds, hence why they’re commonly used in places where materials need to retain their integrity, like in the bathroom. Ceramics are great in the bath because they have a low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning they don’t expand or contract much with temperature changes. This makes them stable and reduces the risk of cracking in these types of environments.

A seamless way to incorporate ceramics in multifamily projects is in fixtures within the bathroom. Ceramic valves are almost leak-proof and rarely need repairs, whereas ball valves are more prone to leakage and the ball itself might need to be replaced over time. Brands like Peerless^® Faucet do a great job at offering high-quality, cost-efficient bath fixtures that not only look good but are incredibly functional. The brand offers ceramic valves across all fixtures, so no matter what contractors choose, they’re always guaranteed quality and durability.

Reliable Warranty and Incentive Programs

When beginning a new project, contractors should ensure the products they select have reliable warranties that will repair or replace (free of charge) parts if ever defective. Reliable warranty programs are essential in construction projects like multifamily because they provide a safeguard for financial investment against potential defects or failures in products and materials, while also enhancing trust between suppliers, builders and clients. In fact, many manufacturers also offer extended warranty terms and have local representatives available who can intervene on your behalf in case of any issues, which in turn, can prevent project delays.

In addition, in many states, there are programs and cost-efficient incentives available to multifamily professionals through tax breaks or direct funding. Building developers may be able to access things like new energy efficient home credits, commercial building deductions and low-income community bonus credit programs. Professionals can find available programs and incentives like these in their state by visiting www.energystar.gov/homesavings or www.dsireusa.org (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency).

Ease of Installation and Functionality

With labor accounting for 40-50% of construction project costs, it’s crucial for contractors to purchase products that are easy to install and maintain. Easy-to-install products save time, allowing projects to stay on schedule and within budget, while simplifying the work for laborers, potentially reducing the need for specialized skills. Products that are easy to maintain also enhance the long-term value of the project by lowering maintenance costs and reducing downtime for repairs, ensuring the structure remains functional and durable with minimal disruptions over its lifespan.

Peerless^® designs user-friendly products that make installation a breeze while also allowing for flexibility. For example, in the bath, the Multichoice Universal Valve offers the ability to update shower fixtures without altering the plumbing behind the wall. It also pairs with all shower trims across the Delta Faucet Company portfolio if updating them is ever desired.

Putting It into Action

Cost planning is a critical component for a successful multifamily project. Trade professionals can select high-quality materials to create savings not only for contractors but for future homeowners. Additionally, identifying plumbing that’s easy to install and modify will future-proof the build and allow tenants the ability to renovate or swap fixtures as they’d like. Contractors should also ensure that the brands they are selecting are backed with extensive warranties to protect their investment and the livelihoods of those who will be living in the finished units. Professionals should give these cost-effective products and services a gander for their next tasks; cross-reference plans and you’re sure to identify savings for your next multifamily or commercial project.

2024-11-13T07:01:00

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

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

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

1. Upgrade your bathroom faucet

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

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

2. Power your shower

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

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

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

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

3. Improve the shower experience

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

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

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

2024-11-12T08:01:00

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

Prioritize your home security

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

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

Stay connected for peace of mind

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

Illuminate your property

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

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

Simplify your home security

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

Be discreet about your travel plans

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

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

Learn more at BlinkForHome.com.

2024-11-12T02:01:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2024-11-06T08:01:00

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

Seal Gaps

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

Install Weatherstripping

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

Inspect and Repair Wood Rot

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

Insulate Exposed Pipes

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

Clean Your Gutters and Inspect Your Roof

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

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