 Designing with natural light: Good for your health and your walletNowhere does the green movement and uplifting design meet and marry better than in the concept of "daylighting" - bringing natural light into a space to both brighten it and reduce dependence on electric lighting. Decorating and designing with natural light is not only energy efficient, but psychologically beneficial as well.
 Saving energy in your home may be easier than you thinkWhether you are looking to conserve energy or save money, reviewing the EnergyGuide label on appliances and looking for the ENERGY STAR label on appliances, electronics and other energy-using products is a great way to identify the most energy-efficient products on the market.
 The perfect energy-saving DIY home improvement project for fallWhen it comes to do-it-yourself projects that will save money on energy costs, there are many new products on the market that make it possible to save hundreds of dollars over time, with just a few hours of easy installation. Few of these products come close to the long-term benefits of installing a radiant barrier in your attic.
 Fall: The ideal season to give your guest bath a makeoverFor most people, overnight house guests go hand-in-hand with the holidays. Rather than waiting until the last minute when stress levels are already high, fall is the ideal time to begin preparing for company and refresh the guest bath. In fact, updating a tired bathroom can be an easy goal to achieve on any budget.
 Choosing the best water heater for your lifestyleWhen ranking household appliances that consume the most energy, no one is surprised to see heating and air conditioning units at the top of the list. On the other hand, many people are surprised to learn that their water heater ranks at No. 2.
 Outdoor lighting tops the list of easy weekend projectsWith its mild temperatures, fall is a great time for outdoor home improvement projects, but it's also supposed to be a time to relax and have fun with family and friends. That makes quick-to-do projects that add to the "family fun factor" appealing to homeowners, who also need to spend their limited home improvement dollars wisely.
 Five innovations to make your home more energy-efficient this winterOld Man Winter brings a variety of gifts for us each year - cold winds, snow and, of course, higher energy bills. You can't control the cold and the snow, but you do have a little control over how much energy you will use this winter. With today's technological advances, it has never been easier to lessen your impact on the power grid and reduce your heating bills.
 Smart ways to save money on summer home improvement projectsWith summer in the air, you're just itching to get that home improvement project going. It's a great time to install a rain garden, improve storm-water runoff in your yard, redo your windows or siding, or even change the look of one of the rooms inside your house with new paint and furniture.
 It's not over yet: Tips for getting through the rest of hurricane seasonHurricanes can cause millions of dollars in damage and threaten lives in coastal states. Even inland states can feel the effects of a hurricane's power when people in coastal states who lose their homes to storms turn to their neighbors for aid. Fortunately, you can take steps to prepare your home to weather the rest of hurricane season.
 Hibernate in style and comfort this winterOK, so humans don't really hibernate, but when those bone-chilling northern winds arrive and snow starts to pile up against the door, we all tend to prefer the climate-controlled comfort of our own homes. And like all creatures, great and small, who endure the hardships of winter, we must prepare.
 Practical upgrades pay off in kitchens and bathroomsPractical pays off when it comes to kitchen and bath renovations. Gone are the days when virtually every kitchen or bathroom remodel involved top-of-the-line luxury upgrades and a budget big enough to fund an Ivy League education. Today's homeowners want more value for their remodeling dollars, and that means turning to improvements that make both functional and fiscal sense.
 Is your state among the nation's buggiest?When you think of the worst bug problems in the country, what states come to mind? Bug problems are clearly an issue across America: A whopping 90 percent of homeowners said they have experienced an insect infestation, according to a recent telephone survey.
 Lower costs make now a great time for a bathroom remodelHave you outgrown your small home, but you're staying put for financial or economic reasons? Or maybe you recently bought a house in foreclosure that was a great deal, but needs fixing up. If so, you're part of the re-energized remodeling market. For the first time since 2006, home-improvement spending is up, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.
 Create 'curb appeal' with easy home projectsWhether you're selling your home and want the best price, or you just want to be the envy of the neighborhood, creating "curb appeal" can be very rewarding. And you're confident you know what constitutes great curb appeal - siding, windows, doors and a lawn that are all in good shape. But is that all you have to think about when it comes to curb appeal?
 Transform your ugly front doorWhen guests arrive at your home or potential buyers see it from the street, first impressions count. But if your front door is an ugly, dilapidated, worn-out mess, they may get stuck there and fail to notice your home's inner beauty. Fortunately there are easy things you can do to transform your home's front entry to reflect your personal style, add instant curb appeal and even save on energy and upkeep.
 What you need to know about protecting your ash treesVirtually all of the 7 billion ash trees in the United States are at risk for infestation by the emerald ash borer, also known as EAB. You can save your ash trees by acting now and starting a prevention program.
 Don't use more energy than you needFor most people, the start of cooling temperatures in the back half of the year means more time spent at home. Take advantage of the time you're spending at home by making sure you're not using any more energy than you need to. Fortunately, there are many options to cutting down on energy use and with the tax credits expiring at the end of 2010, now is the time to take action.
 How to remain healthy and independent in retirementYou spent years working hard and saving so you could spend your retirement doing the things you want to do. Now that you're living that dream, you can ensure you'll be able to enjoy many years of retirement by staying healthy and allowing yourself to live independently for as long as you are able.
 Doors and trim should top your list of remodeling projectsFall is here. Time to rake the leaves, carve a pumpkin, and start drafting your holiday shopping list. It's also a perfect time to tackle do-it-yourself projects around the house. Updating your interior doors and replacing old exterior trim are two great ways to spruce up your home and increase its value inside and out.
 Demystifying contemporary home decor and designMixed up by modern? Confused by what's considered contemporary? With more emphasis on home design today, it can be difficult for homeowners to distinguish between the array of design styles. Here are hints for creating a modern look in your home.
 A strategic approach to remodeling: refreshing rooms with small projectsIn today's challenging economy, you're taking a look at how you spend your hard-earned dollars. And while you may not have the necessary budget to tackle a major home improvement project, there are many homeowners who are choosing a more strategic approach to remodeling - by refreshing rooms and undertaking small projects one at a time.
 Cut heating costs with simple home decor changes and home improvementsWith a scorching summer drawing to a close and last winter's deep freeze looming in their minds, many Americans are already looking for ways to curtail energy costs this winter. Fortunately, a few simple home improvements - and even some decor changes - can help reduce your home's heating costs this winter.
 Fall ceramic tile trends go bold and beautifulHome renovation and building go on year-round, but as with any design statement, each season brings new looks and trends. This autumn's trends share a flare for boldness and innovation. Here are the hot trends to watch in ceramic tile this season.
 Daylight is a great way to make your home more energy efficientDaylighting is once again enjoying its day in the sun as an important factor in home design.
 Bathroom design: It's all in the detailsIt's most likely one of the top reasons you've been putting off that bathroom makeover or remodel -- you're not sure where to begin. So what should you look for when you're planning your next bath or powder room project?
 Savings heat up with solar-powered water heatersThanks to the federal tax credit program, you can recoup 30 percent of the total installed cost of a solar water heating system. It's a great time to switch to solar power for your water heating needs. But before you buy a solar water heater, do your homework, learn about the technologies available and review just how solar-friendly your home can be.
 Ready to renovate? Key ingredients: style, color, pizzazzWhether you're remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or adding a bedroom, one of the most important decorating steps is choosing windows to match the architectural style of your home.
 School's back in session - be sure to do your 'home' workThe school year brings crazy schedules of carpools and extracurricular activities. To help keep some sanity during your hectic days, do your "home" work. A few simple steps to get your house organized and updated can mean less stress during the year.
 Home improvement projects made easier by technologyHome remodeling projects can become overwhelming to even the most experienced DIYers. Thanks to new technology and online resources, these projects don't have to be so daunting. With online sites and tools to keep homeowners on track, complicated projects are simpler than ever. By doing the proper research and using these new resources, homeowners will find that technology can make home improvement projects faster, and more painless and precise.
 Ten tips for the perfect bathroom remodelGiving an old, tired bathroom a makeover is one of the best things you can do to increase your home's resale value. And while it can take some planning, remodeling your bathroom is easily within the capability of most homeowners.
 Winter-proof your home this fall for year-round benefitsAfter a summer of record-breaking temperatures across the country, you may be wondering if the impending winter weather will be just as extreme. While harsh weather puts a strain on wallets with increased energy bills, it can also be damaging to the home. Before the ice and snow hit, consider winterizing your home to help increase efficiency and minimize maintenance.
 Nine tips for the perfect kitchen remodelFor many Americans, remodeling their kitchens tops the list of home improvement projects - and for several good reasons. Not only is the kitchen the heart of many homes - the center of family activity and home entertaining - but remodeling your kitchen is typically one of the smartest investments, often generating a payback of 80 to 90 percent on the cost of remodel at the time of resale.
 Are you throwing money out the (energy inefficient) window?They frame your favorite view and are key to making your home comfortable in summer and winter, yet most people don't think about them until they stop working properly. But, if your windows aren't performing as well as they should, now is a great time to consider replacing them.
 A new roof can put money back in homeowners' pocketsA 2010 survey by American Express indicates that homeowners will spend more than $6,000 on average on home improvements this year. For one lucky homeowner this money may come back not only in the form of enhancements to their home, but also thousands of dollars right back in their pocket. For others, installing a new roof could mean getting a little money back in their bank account. It's as simple as installing a roof and sharing the picture for all to admire.
 Lead-safe renovation - what homeowners need to knowBecause some common remodeling practices can stir up lead paint and prove dangerous to a family's health, it's important for you to learn about a contractor's lead-safe practices before delving into such projects.
 How to make your family room into a personal theaterUntil now, there's been nothing quite like the experience of catching your favorite flick in the theater, but today's technology makes it possible to bring the magic of the theater experience to your home. Each year, home theater equipment becomes more sophisticated and affordable, allowing more homeowners to turn their family rooms into screening rooms.
 Give your kitchen a 'make under'Think your kitchen needs a makeover? Why not try a "make under"? "Less is more" is the new mantra for homeowners who want to take control of their home decor - eliminating clutter, streamlining products and taking a simplified, minimalistic approach to their home-improvement projects. The perfect room to begin this organized overhaul is the kitchen, as it's a spot that tends to clutter quickly. Learn how you can make under this space and uncover its true beauty.
 Answers to five common questions about the water in your homeDo you take clean water for granted? As one of the basic necessities of life, you are constantly consuming water. Whether you are drinking it, cleaning with it or using it in your home appliances, the quality of your water affects your life.
 The renovation revelation: Top tile trends for today's renovationsWhen renovating your home for the long run, it makes sense to choose materials that offer outstanding design flexibility, affordability, durability and eco-friendliness. Ceramic tile continues to be a favorite choice of savvy designers, builders and homeowners seeking those qualities for home renovations.
 Exotic hardwoods that keep the environment in mindThanks to responsible forestry practices, sustainable forestry certification and manufacturer innovation, visually appealing hardwoods can now be part of an environmentally conscious home.
 Seniors: How to live independently and safelyRetirement is a great time to enjoy life - especially in your own home. But if you - or your parents - are starting to slow down, suffering from occasional imbalance or are having difficulty living safely in your home, it could limit your independence, and potentially cause you harm. Here are some tips you can follow to help yourself or your loved one continue to live independently in their own home and age in place safely.
 Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation who lives in itMost of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide additional help in their own homes - or move aging parents into your home - how do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults?
 Simple, eye-catching ways to 'in-grain' wood in home decorFrom Colonial to Craftsman to contemporary, wood is a fundamental feature in home design for its ability to complement all types of architectural styles. Its beauty, versatility and durability allow homeowners to easily incorporate wood materials throughout a home, bringing warmth, texture and a touch of nature to any room.
 Turn a gourmet kitchen into a chef's studioDoes your kitchen feel more like Julie's than Julia's? No need to be concerned ... if Julie could learn to master the art of cooking in less than a year, you can design your own chef's studio in a fraction of that time. Follow Julie's footsteps and take your lead from those who know kitchens best - professional chefs.
 Bring the beach back with you - creating cottage style in your homeNothing's harder to face than packing up your belongings after a week at a cozy beach house and heading back home to the real world. Sure, it's hard to leave paradise behind, but who says you have to? Why not just transform your own living space to a beach-inspired haven that lets you get away from it all, even if you aren't on vacation? It's easy and inexpensive to do.
 Back-to-basics home improvements can help lower taxesWhile small things help, it's the big steps consumers take to improve their home's energy efficiency that truly make a difference. Here are a few things you can do to make your house more energy efficient this winter.
 Low water flow leads to high satisfaction and savingsIn the United States, Americans consume 3.7 billion gallons of water every year that are not replaced, leaving a huge water deficit - a result of growing demand on finite water supplies. In fact, at least 36 states are anticipating local, regional or statewide water shortages within the next five years. Everyone has the power to change the water equation in the United States and put more money in their own pockets, while helping hydrate the planet.
 Inspect your fences and gates to ensure safety and securityFences with gates in good working order -- especially those that are self-closing and self-latching -- can protect your home, family and property. Now's the time to inspect fencing, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure all are in good working condition.
 Four ways to improve your home's beauty and resale valueIn a tough housing market, homeowners want to improve their home's beauty and functionality, while adding resale value. This may include choosing products that reduce maintenance, save energy, improve appearance and offer protection from the damaging forces of nature. Here are some tips for problem areas that could benefit from the latest home solutions.
 Protect your home from natural disastersWhether building new, or adding on, it is important to speak with the builder about how your home will be protected from seismic activity, high winds and other perils. Although specific natural disasters are difficult to predict, no part of the country is immune. The dangers show that careful preparation in home and other building construction is a necessity.
 Boosting home energy efficiency: Improvements that feel good and save moneyA long-term investment in improved energy efficiency can make sound dollar sense for your family. Energy-efficient home improvements can help reduce energy use, lower utility bills and cut your home's environmental impact.
 Three tips to make your utility meter run backward(ARA) - What would you do with an extra $2,200 per year? That is the annual energy bill for a typical American home, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy (DOE). Dramatically reducing that cost, or even selling power back to the utility company, could mean having enough money for a vacation, a down payment on a car or a boost to your child's college savings.
 You can do that with vinyl siding?With the economy making a slow rebound, homeowners continue to look for cost-effective options when building or renovating their homes. Natural exterior building materials are often very expensive and require both time and money to maintain. Choosing vinyl and polymeric siding is one way people are saving on building materials. Both siding options, which many considered at one time to be fake-looking or boring, have become one of the most versatile, detailed and eco-friendly home exterior products available on the market today.
 Add value and appeal with four simple home maintenance projectsProjects to improve the value and appeal of your home don't have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time to accomplish.
 Easy ways to take advantage of solar energy at homeWhile installing a complete residential solar energy system can be cost-prohibitive for many homeowners, recent technology that integrates solar power with individual household appliances is making it easier for homeowners to harness the power of the sun without breaking the bank.
 How to get a custom closet on a do-it-yourself budgetBoth fashion and budget-conscious Americans alike are taking better care of their clothing and other possessions, starting with how they store them. But if you haven't been reading today's most popular home and style magazines, sneaking a peak inside your neighbor's closets, or house-hunting lately, you might not have noticed: Closets have evolved from clumsy and non-functional to downright fabulous.
 Can smarter closets smooth school days?Experts say children with good organizational skills do better in school. Performing activities such as sorting and classifying when children are pre-school-age and older can help them acquire organizational skills. It may even help to build self-confidence and self-control, too. What better way to teach kids organization than by starting with their own clothes and toys?
 Luxury bathroom upgrades that are worth the investmentFew room renovations return as much on your investment - in terms of resale value and enhanced enjoyment - as refurbishing a bathroom. Maybe that's why many Americans, who have tightened their belts when it comes to other areas of home improvement, still seem to be willing to spend more for luxury bathroom upgrades. Here are a handful of upgrades that can help elevate a common bathroom to a luxurious home resort.
 Sticking to a budget? Tips for affordable and easy home upgradesLiving on a budget is the norm, rather than the exception, in the current economy. Whether you're trying to entice potential homebuyers or just want to give your living space a quick spruce up, here are a few tips for making a big impact in the look of your home without breaking the bank.
 Create a playful kid zone on a budgetNothing better sums up kids' personalities than their favorite spaces: their bedrooms or playrooms. And in today's design-conscious society, there's no limiting the ways you can create inviting, kid-friendly spaces that reflect your children's personal tastes while encouraging imaginative play and creativity.
 How to design an eye-catching and comfortable kitchenTaking a tired kitchen from drab to fab is an easy goal to achieve on any budget. All you need is a little paint, a few decorating elements and some creativity.
 Do you have the right tools for your "honey-do" list?It's summer and there's no better time to take on home improvement projects and that ever-expanding "honey-do" list. In a few months, those tasks will seem a lot more unpleasant when they can't be done in the beautiful sunshine.
 Before you begin a remodel, know how to score the best financingIf you're interested in increasing the value and livability of your home, remodeling might make sense for you. But before you begin hiring contractors, you need to do some basic prep work first. If a home improvement loan is in your future, your first step should be to check your credit score and report.
 How to cut home heating costs this winterSome savvy homeowners are having their cake and eating it too when it comes to energy-efficient home heating. Imagine cutting your heating bills, while boosting your home's comfort. Sound too good to be true? Not for the thousands of homeowners who are using radiant floor heating, one of the oldest and most efficient means of heating a home.
 Luxury vinyl tile provides everyday design with durabilityNatural stone and ceramic tile floors have great design, architectural and sculptural qualities. But they can be expensive, hard to clean, cold to walk on and not very durable. So imagine transforming your aging flooring with the look of rich travertine, limestone, concrete, slate or ceramic tiles, but without the cost or frailty of these lavish coverings.
 Tips for quick and easy wallpaper removalThe lilac print wallpaper in your bedroom may not be your style. And if your house is on the market, that lilac print wallpaper is probably not your prospective buyer's style either. Removing wallpaper is easier than you may think and it has a big impact on a home's appearance. In fact, removing aging, sagging wallpaper is one of the least expensive ways to improve a home's resale value and shorten its time on the market, according to a survey of real estate appraisers.
 Four fast, fashionable and fabulous home fixes anyone can doWhen it comes to home improvement, you don't have to be a professional to get professional-looking results. Many simple projects can dramatically update your home and are easy enough for even the novice do-it-yourselfer.
 Time running out to earn tax credits on new garage doorsThe tax credit eligibility for qualified garage doors will expire on Dec. 31. Now is your last chance to save 30 percent off the price of an energy-saving curb-appeal-inspiring garage door, courtesy of the U.S. government.
 Kitchen, bath renovations remain tops, but go lean and greenWhen it comes to adding value and enjoyment to your home, kitchen and bath remodels still remain tops, remodeling and real estate experts say. But how people remodel is changing. High-end renovations, costing tens of thousands of dollars, are dwindling, replaced by upgrades that provide homeowners with the most return for the least investment.
 How to make your outdoor living space as cool and comfortable as indoorsIt is easy to enjoy your deck or patio when the weather is warm and pleasant, and memories of cold winters are driven far away. But when the temperatures soar, do you find yourself retreating indoors? Even through the dog days of summer, you can enjoy your outdoor living space by using outdoor versions of indoor comforts such as luxurious furnishings, decorative touches and even air conditioning.
 Today's laminate floors - a 'real' wood alternativeYou love the look of natural wood flooring but are afraid to install hardwood because you know the floor will take a beating from the kids, dogs and the heavy day-to-day traffic all too common in modern family life. But you don't have to sacrifice high style looks for boring sensibility when considering a new flooring option in your home - not if you choose laminate.
 Make your home your summer getawaySummer is a time to take long weekends, enjoy the pleasant weather and make new memories with family and friends. It's also a time to take a moment for yourself and find ways to savor that relaxing vacation feeling.
 Ten ways to improve your home's curb appealIf you think having great curb appeal is only important if you're trying to sell your home, think again. Your house is one of your biggest investments and making a great first impression will leave everyone - not just potential buyers - wanting to see what's inside. With 10 simple improvements, you can easily transform your home into the best looking house on the block.
 An expert's guide to hardwood flooringAs you plan your home and office improvements, think long-term by making choices that are informed, responsible and financially sound. The American Hardwood Information Center suggests hardwood flooring -- one of the best long-term investments to be made. It is environmentally friendly, forever fashionable, and will last for generations.
 How a garage door can improve the appearance of your home's exteriorWith warm weather months here, it's the perfect season for the annual ritual of performing a spruce up around your home. Planting gardens, improving the look of your lawn and maybe applying a fresh coat of paint to the window trims are on your to-do list. An appealing exterior offers an invaluable first impression to neighbors, friends, and - if you're trying to sell, which many do prior to the beginning of school in the fall - perspective buyers.
 A sustainable bathroom saves water and moneyWith so many products claiming to be green these days, it's hard to know which ones are the real deal. A great indicator for certified sustainability in the bathroom is the WaterSense label, which is granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By learning how (and which) products meet the criteria, you can easily incorporate the best - and most eco-friendly - products into your bath.
 Protect your home from termite damageAs Americans head outside to tend to their lawns and repair their houses, it's just as important to consider what might be happening out of sight, deep inside the home.
 A resurgence of the DIY spiritWhile economic factors have slowed consumer spending in the home improvements category in recent years, new reports, including one from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, show homeowners are planning to invest in their homes once again.
 What you should know before choosing a home fire sprinkler systemIn response to growing concerns about fatalities caused by household fires, as well as enhanced education regarding the effectiveness of fire sprinkler systems, building codes are changing to prompt an increase in the number of homes having sprinklers. Here's what you need to know before you choose a system for your home.
 Make your home appliance updates a local investmentSummer is the biggest moving time for Americans, according to Moving.com. With low housing prices continuing and the recent first-time homebuyers credit that ended in June, plenty of Americans will be unpacking boxes in new homes this summer and fall.
 Five fabulous finds that won't put your kitchen budget on the chopping blockNo matter if your cooking style is elaborate like Julia Child or quick and simple like Rachael Ray, there are few items in your kitchen that you shouldn't live without. Add these five affordable finds to your kitchen and you'll be cooking with class in no time.
 Escape from winter's chill in your warm houseWhen the deep winter chill hits, the last thing you want to do is shiver inside your own house. But that frequently happens when drafty attics, fireplaces, leaky windows and open vents allow cold air to enter your house and have you hiding under blankets and heavier clothing. And not only are you shivering, you're probably spending a lot of money attempting to keep the temperature at a comfortable level.
 Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concreteSince economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend.
 Bathroom remodeling today means less water and money down the drainYou're ready for a new bathroom, something with style and comfort. You want the room to refresh you in the mornings, and provide you with the opportunity to relax and unwind in the evenings.
 Create a comfy 'school zone' for studying at homeWith the arrival of the new school year, now is the perfect time to "zone out" and get your family and your home in gear by creating a comfortable, yet functional study zone in your home.
 Help for modern families: inexpensive bathroom additionsTwo important housing trends are both emerging and merging today: Older adults increasingly want to "age in place," while a record number of households have united across multiple generations. The second trend is in response to both the flagging economy and to support elder parents' desire to stay at home.
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