When winter’s cold winds are howling outside, does the thought of stepping onto a warm floor inside appeal to you? Underfloor heating, also known as radiant heating, can make that pleasant thought a reality. Some people think radiant heating is an expensive and unnecessary luxury, and that wool socks and area rugs are all that…
Most people don’t stop to think about the tile they install in their homes as being antimicrobial or antibacterial. Most people do agree, however, on the need to keep their homes free of germs and microbes. Most people also agree that any step they take to reduce or eliminate germs is a step in the…
Crown molding, the interior trim that runs along the top edge of walls where they meet a ceiling, enhances the overall look of the room and draws the eye up and away from the floor. Given crown molding’s height on a wall and distinct architectural characteristics, the loftiness of crown molding (pun intended) can dramatically…
When you have taken extra care to improve the beauty and curb appeal of the exterior of your home, don’t let your efforts be visible during daylight hours only, just to fade when darkness falls. With strategically placed accent and landscape lighting, you can also showcase your home, your yard, and the landscaping around it…
Touchless bathroom plumbing fixtures such as sinks and toilets are becoming more and more mainstream and making their way into bathroom remodels everywhere. Homeowners love the sleek design and high-tech features that provide a host of benefits – some obvious, some not so much. We have all seen toilets in public restrooms that employ a…
Wainscoting is a design element you can install to add an entirely new look to practically any room in your home. When quality products are used and installation is done professionally, wainscoting not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of a room, it can also add value to the home overall. What Is Wainscoting? Wainscoting is…
Homeowners want their homes to be tight, dry, and energy efficient year round. To that end, and also to keep up with ever-changing energy codes, home builders apply a sheathing around exterior walls and roofs to keep moisture out and prevent air leakage. This results in code-compliant homes, homeowners saving money on energy costs, and…
A cooktop, also referred to as stovetop, is a surface that contains burners for cooking. Cooktops are either part of a larger stove or range appliance, or they are separate from the oven unit and built into a countertop area of the kitchen. Cooktops can be gas or electric, depending on the power hookup into…
The fireplace has traditionally been the focal point in living rooms across America. A century ago, fireplaces with their brick surround and wide wood mantle, were functional as they were relied upon to heat a room. The advent of central heating in homes made fireplace use less about function and more about enjoyment and ambience,…
Understanding the Variety of Kitchen Lighting Options The kitchen is the most popular room in the home – and for good reason. Parents and children spend quality time in the kitchen as they prepare meals and dine together; chefs and cook wannabes let creative juices flow as they test new recipes; and friends and neighbors…