improvement
Black is back for up-to-date interiors
Love the way you feel after slipping into your little black dress, or donning a well-tailored black suit? Black is not only a great shade on you - it's also a great shade for your home. The stylish finish is especially perfect in the kitchen …
Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer
Windows do a lot more than just let the light in and keep the weather out. They're both key elements in your home's overall design and in the unique look of each individual room. If you're redecorating for warm weather, updating your window treatments is …
Need to know: Facts about pool, spa and hot tub installation
Does your dream backyard include a lush lawn, lovely landscaping and - at the heart of the action - a pool, spa or hot tub? If so, you're not alone, and this might be your year to turn that dream into reality. A recent survey …
Upgraded decking materials offer enduring quality and beauty
Tackling your home improvement list this summer likely includes doing some work on your outdoor spaces. If replacing or updating a deck is your focus, it's wise to look into new products that help ensure your efforts will be enjoyed for many seasons to come. …
Top deck trends for summer 2012
It's that time of year when homeowners are lured outside by the warm, sunny weather. Is your outdoor space ready to be enjoyed to the fullest? If your deck or patio needs updating, catching up on the top design innovations and trends will help you …
VIDEO: New product banishes tile grout, makes tiles look like new
Tile grout can be one of the most frustrating things to clean. A new tile grout product makes this spring cleaning essential easier.
Splurge vs. save: Which home improvement projects are worth the expense?
There's no place like home. It's this sense of pride that drives so many of us to embark on home improvement projects each year, some of which can be extensive and expensive. Before investing in any project, there are several things you should ask yourself …
Home insulation 101
Insulation improves indoor air quality, protects from ice dams in the winter and saves money. It is important to consider a number of factors when installing insulation. Read on to find the right type of insulation for your home.
Brighten up your home with hot new colors
Wake your home’s décor from its long winter’s nap with bright colors borrowed from fashion trends. “Interior finishes and design are coming again from fashion,” said Tracy Grosspietsch, owner and director of design at Abberlin Kitchens, Renovations and Baths in Lake Zurich. “It’s a rainbow …
Paving way to long-lasting hardscapes
As we move from winter to spring, what kind of maintenance needs to be done on your brick patio or driveway? Greg Sloan, owner of Sloan’s Brick Paving & Landscaping in Libertyville, lays out his advice. “The biggest detriment to brick pavement is freeze and …
Spring into home improvement with weekend projects
Sprucing up your home for spring doesn't have to mean spending huge amounts of time and money. In fact, there are many projects that you can complete in a weekend that will improve the look and feel of your home. With a little guidance and …
Eight plants for shady side of your garden
Many home gardens have shady areas, and choosing a nice variety of plants for areas that don’t get much sun can be tricky. We caught up with Richard Eyre, owner and builder at Rich’s Foxwillow Pines Nursery in Woodstock, at the Chicago Flower and Garden …
Air conditioning maintenance key to beating the heat
Merts Heating & Air Conditioning, in Steger, is poised to service or replace any air conditioning unit. As a Bryant dealer for 60 years, their reputation has been built on quality and honesty. The key to maintaining an air conditioner is a yearly checkup and inspection which will protect the unit’s longevity.
Spring improvements pay, whether you move or stay
Whether you are selling, renting or staying for the long haul, it pays to add charm and distinction on the exterior of your home. Here are some suggested basic projects.
Simple, inexpensive updates can spruce up kitchen
When the kitchen starts to look trapped in a timewarp and decor becomes drab, updating is necessary. A faucet, lighting and new finish on cabinetry affords a contemporary look in no time.
Incorporate season into home decor
When you update decor to reflect the season, focus on lighting, flooring and accessories. Easy changes can make your home feel warm and inviting.