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Share ideas and learn about the latest in home improvement and décor from Tom and Leslie.

Money Pit Blogs

When It Comes to Remodeling, Budget-Friendly Is In

Thu, 05/03/2012 - 11:12 - Leslie Segrete

Home remodeling activity has been picking up steam for a while now, and according to a recent report from the remodeling futures program at Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, this may be the biggest year for projects since 2006. But you won’t be seeing any extreme makeovers...

Is Your Home Covered for Disaster?

Thu, 04/26/2012 - 11:09 - Tom Kraeutler

With hurricane season approaching and any number of home threats waiting in the wings, it’s wise to take a closer look at your home insurance coverage. Many home insurers are minimizing their exposure to risk by trimming out standard elements that would otherwise do the same for you. Meanwhile,...

Create a Rainwater Collection System

Thu, 04/19/2012 - 02:01 - Leslie Segrete

April showers have brought us May flowers, and there will be plenty of other outdoor blooms and greenery to maintain in the months to come. More rain may be on the way, and with domestic water shortages continuing in many parts of the country, the time is right to think about collecting that...

Rev Up Spring Cleaning With A New Vacuum Cleaner

Fri, 04/06/2012 - 13:10 - Leslie Segrete

Make the most of spring cleaning and set yourself up for smoother chore days year-round with a new vacuum cleaner. It may not be the most glamorous thing you buy, but the right vacuum cleaner can make your life a lot easier. First, consider the type of vacuum you and your home need. If you have...

Is Now The Time To Sell Your Home?

Thu, 03/29/2012 - 01:47 - Tom Kraeutler

Record-low mortgage rates and affordable prices are encouraging many home buyers to get out and shop this season, but what if you’re looking to sell your home? The answer is to wait a little longer, if you can. The housing market has definitely improved in 2012, and the upswing is slated to...

For a Backyard Getaway, Build a Greenhouse

Thu, 03/22/2012 - 09:45 - Leslie Segrete

Most guys I know need a place to retreat -- a man cave, if you will. These spaces have gotten a lot of attention over the years, and are becoming a frequent staple in interior design plans. But there is a new home retreat trend that's literally cropping up all over, and it's all about being...

Power Tool Safety for Spring Projects

Sun, 03/18/2012 - 21:40 - Tom Kraeutler

Power tool use leads to thousands of injuries each year—injuries that can be prevented with a little care and planning. So before you power up to start those spring projects, ensure your success and survival with a power tool safety review:

·Choose the right tool for the job: Using the right...

New Life for Old Furnishings

Wed, 03/07/2012 - 14:36 - Leslie Segrete

You probably have some well-loved furnishings that still have plenty of wear and could take a starring role in a room if you give them a fresh finish. Furniture refinishing and upholstery are definitely DIY projects, and can create statement pieces out of items that previously blended into the...

Beware of Product Defects that Could Cause Appliance Fires

Tue, 02/28/2012 - 14:26 - Tom Kraeutler

You may know that an unattended stove or a lint-filled dryer create major appliance fire hazards. But did you know that millions of appliances have been recalled over the past five years because of product defects that could cause a fire? Your appliances can actually catch fire through no fault...

Give Your Home a Red Carpet Makeover

Wed, 02/22/2012 - 13:47 - Leslie Segrete

It’s Oscar season again, and everyone’s wondering who the winners and losers will be according to the Academy…and the fashion police! You can make sure your home gets on the best-dressed list with a red carpet-worthy makeover guided by these three words: glitz, glamour and luxury.

Crystal...