Posts from May 2016
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31
5 Ways to Curb Energy Costs This Summer
Our utility bills seem to rise along with the thermometer come summer. Certain steps and upgrades can help cut down on cooling costs and other seasonal home expenses.
One minor task that has major impact is cleaning the HVAC filter, says Ameeta Jain, co-founder of Homeselfe. Regardless of the unit you own, cleaning the filter on a regular basis is important. When the filter is dirty, the system consumes more energy. With a clean filter, the system can cool your home more efficiently.
Another task to consider is mulching your garden, Jain says. Mulch lessens the amount of watering needed for plants, reducing expense and consumption. Mulch works to prevent evaporation so plants have more time to absorb water.
Jain recommends using a rain barrel to collect water, as well. Harvested rainwater can be recycled in the garden, saving...
26
Barbecuing This Weekend? 5 Food Safety Tips
'Tis the season for eating out—doors, that is!
If you're hosting a backyard soirée this summer, make food safety a priority when planning the meal. Seasonal temperatures can accelerate the growth of foodborne bacteria, compromising the safety of you and your guests, cautions the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
"From picnics to cookouts, eating outside is a fun and tasty way to enjoy the warmer weather," says Torey Armul, a registered dietitian and nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy. "Be sure to follow proper food safety practices every step of the way to keep unwanted bacteria from crashing your party."
These practices include:
• Washing Your Hands – Wash your hands before and after handling any foods. "Bring along hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol in case water is not available," Armul says. "Remember to regularly clean your cooler, picnic basket and tote bags, b...
26
Wise up to the benefits of a smart home
(BPT) - Smart homes make life easier and more convenient. Who wouldn't love being able to control lighting, entertainment and temperature from their couch — or from anywhere for that matter? Whether you're at work or on vacation, smart devices alert you to what's going on at home and help you stay connected and protected.
"Since inventing the world's first residential smoke alarm, First Alert has been at the forefront of advancement in home safety technology," says Tom Russo, president of First Alert. "Our Onelink portfolio of smart products goes beyond traditional perceptions of safety products and ushers in a new era of interconnectivity between a home's comfort level and people's safety and lifestyle preferences."
According to the experts at First Alert, the following are just a few of the many benefits of giving your home...
25
Curb Appeal: Tips to Polish Up Paint
In life and in real estate, first impressions matter. Before placing your home on the market, it's worth taking a look at the paint on the outside, which may have been impacted by elements from the past winter.
"If you've been huddled inside for the past few months, you may not be aware of the price your exterior paint has paid keeping winter weather at bay," says Debbie Zimmer, paint and color expert with the paint Quality Institute. "Freeze-thaw cycles, rain, sleet and snow can cause paint to fail quickly, especially if you didn't use top-quality paint to begin with."
Zimmer suggests starting by inspecting for flaking or peeling paint on the exterior siding and trim. If the compromised paint is confined to a small area, a touch-up may be all that's needed.
Begin any touch-up project by scraping off loose paint, then sanding the edges smooth, Zimmer explains. Next, prime any areas where bare wood is visible, and then apply a...
22
How Valuable Is a New Front Door?
Some home improvement projects are bankable for the seller—some, unfortunately, are a bust.
A new front door, according to ContractorQuotes.us, is one of the projects that can yield a high return on investment. A steel door, specifically, costs an average of $1,230 to install, but may increase the home's value by $1,252—a 101.8 percent return.
A fiberglass door, too, may boost a home's value, by over $2,000 ($2,107, to be exact), while costing an average of $2,926—a 72 percent recoup for the seller.
If you're planning to replace your front door, keep in mind that some doors require maintenance. Be sure to clarify these requirements before purchasing, ContractorQuotes.us advises.
Remember, also, that the least expensive product is not necessarily worth the savings. The front door is likely the first feature buyers will notice when visiting the home.
It may be tempting to select a style you like personally, but, Contrac...