One of the perks of winter is relaxing in front of a crackling fire on a cold, snowy night. Before you get too comfortable, take the time to make sure your fireplace system is operating safely and efficiently. The first step is to have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional. Not…
Today’s home offices must be able to multi-task as efficiently and effectively as the people who work in them — and that’s something you should keep in mind when making renovation plans. “We see fewer and fewer buyers requiring a dedicated home office when setting their search criteria for buying a new home,” writes Gwen…
The efficiency of your heating system is a measure of how snug and warm your home will be this winter, so it makes sense to keep it in peak operating performance. An efficient, well-maintained heating system also contributes to the quality of the air you and your family breathe. In today’s tightly-sealed homes indoor pollutants…
If you are looking for a durable, practical flooring solution that will add value and beauty to your home, ceramic tile is a smart choice. Not only is it resistant to water, scratches and fire, today’s selection of floor and wall tiles is so varied, that you can achieve any look or style. Ceramic tile…
With fall just around the corner, many a homeowner’s thoughts turn grudgingly to preparing for the cold weather that is just around the corner. As we move indoors, it is a good time to re-evaluate the look and efficiency of our living space. Here are a few tips to help make your indoor space cozy…
Homeowners looking to update a dated bathroom or drab powder room can draw inspiration from the 2016 Design Trends Survey conducted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). According to the survey of bathroom designers, transitional bathrooms are the top trend in bathroom design today, blending the traditional with contemporary to create a clean,…
A fresh coat of exterior paint is the easiest, most cost-effective way to spruce up and protect your home’s exterior. As well as setting the tone for your home’s exterior, paint provides protection against moisture penetration and the damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Colour is the power tool for creating visual impact, but…
When it comes to designing a backyard escape, simple can be best. Far from being boring, a simple deck design featuring bold, clean lines can create a wonderful backdrop to show off nature’s beauty. At its best, a deck represents a transition from the house to the outdoors. It can be a simple extension of…
Energy-savvy homeowners know that maintaining caulking and weatherstripping is essential to reducing energy costs. But many might not realize that the wallpaper they choose or where they place that bookcase can also affect energy costs. Here are some tips to help you create an energy-efficient decor in your home: Place large, heavy furniture – such…
