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10 Steps to Getting Your House Back-to-School Ready

Perhaps that “Zen-like” state before a new school year begins is just a pipe dream. However, the way you organize home and kids can be the difference between chaos and order. So roll up those sleeves and check out these helpful ideas in getting your home back-to-school ready. Perhaps that “Zen-like” state before a new school year begins is just a pipe dream. However, the way you organize home and kids can be the difference between chaos and order. So roll up those sleeves and check out these helpful ideas in getting your home back-to-school ready.

Plan Collection
5 Most Popular Materials for the Roof Over Your Head

Many components go into a roof to make it a cohesive unit. All are crucial, but nothing gives it “personality” like the materials used on the surface. Asphalt, metal, tile, and the like provide not only aesthetics but the durability and longevity that serve as the roof’s true value.

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Exterior Sheathing – Top 5 Exterior Wall Sheathing Options for New Home Builds

It’s important to consider wall sheathing materials and methods when planning a new home build. But it's also something that many homeowners don’t account for – mostly because they don't know about the available options. Here are some of those options and how they affect your house as a whole.

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7 Design Ideas for Finishing Touches in Your Home Landscape

Can you imagine a home with just a gate, paved driveway, and paths without flowers, shrubs, and greenery? Or one with untrimmed hedges, grass, and trees? You can create a more attractive and appealing space by blending hard and soft landscape features. Here are 7 finishing touches for home landscaping.

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6 Reasons Why Solar Energy Makes Sense for Your Home

Now is the time to install solar panels at your home. Why? Prices are down because of government incentives; there are leasing arrangements and power purchase agreements that reduce or eliminate upfront costs; the technology is improving, some home centers have booths/kiosks touting solar electric installations; and more …

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10 Features to Look for in House Plans 1500-2000 Square Feet

House plans in the 1500–2000 square foot range offer the perfect amount of space for a new family or an older couple whose children are all grown and moved out. The key is understanding the unique features of these homes, and creating a list of your own must-have features.

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13 Ways to Bring the Warmth and Comfort of Fall into Your Home

As images of the Great Pumpkin, Halloween, and Thanksgiving awaken your creativity, think of all the festive ways you can welcome fall into your home. So, with the days getting shorter and cooler temps prevailing, say goodbye to summer and celebrate the wonders of fall with these decorative touches.

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Football is Here: How to Create a Must-Have Media Room

Real estate agents constantly stress how the most important room in your home is the kitchen or master bedroom. While these areas are definitely key, most people know that a house isn't a home unless you have a kick-butt media room to watch sports, movies, and TV series

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Tips for Maintaining a Safe Chimney

As temperatures drop, what could be nicer than sitting in front of a fireplace watching TV or reading? If you have or will have a fireplace or wood-burning or pellet stove in your home, though, you should be attuned to the hazards of a fire occurring in the chimney.

Plan Collection
Can’t Seem to Lose Those Last 5 Pounds? It May Be Your Kitchen Design

A recent study from the University of Notre Dame’s School of Architecture has found that open kitchens and floor plans can increase the amount of eating you do in a day, resulting in 2–4 extra pounds per year. Here’s how to snack-proof your design and keep off the pounds.