If you’ve made it through a large-scale renovation, you know that it can be a life-altering experience. The result–a shiny new space that you designed (and probably even built)–usually outweighs the drama, high costs and stress associated with such…
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Katy Schamberger
We previously mentioned stencils as a great way to add an innovative appearance to your wood stairs. The DIY tools are also a fun, creative way to add embellishments to your walls and furniture. Thanks to an increasing awareness…
Applying a coat of fresh paint, refinishing hardwood floors, installing built-in shelves–these sorts of DIY projects can be completed within the privacy of your own home. But what happens when a project moves outside, whether to your home’s exterior…
We’ve noticed a lot of talk in the DIY blogosphere this week about hallways. Although these long, narrow corridors can often be challenging when it comes to function and decor, hallways are typically neglected when it comes to their…
What could be more green than applying plant fibers to your wall? If you’re looking for an unconventional and eco-friendly wallcovering, grasscloth might just be the way to go. Now, before we scare you off (you’re thinking of the…
One of the best things about DIY is that by tackling projects yourself, you can typically save a lot of money as opposed to calling in a contractor. Of course, sometimes you need a professional to finish the job,…
Stairs kinda get a bad rap, don’t they? So much foot traffic, so little love. But depending on the location of your stairs (and if you have them), a staircase can be a focal point of your home–so why…
Quick poll: Does anyone still use cookbooks? With smartphones and tablets becoming increasingly popular, recipe apps may be the way to go. (Confession? I have numerous cookbooks. And I use them. A lot.) While browsing the blogosphere, we stumbled…
Bamboo has long been praised for its speedy growth time, ability to thrive without pesticides and its long-lasting, sustainable nature. From flooring to fabric, bamboo has become a go-to eco-friendly material whose versatile nature makes it ideal for a…
You may have noticed that we’ve got a case of spring fever here at C&H. In much of the country, however, warmer temperatures also bring a higher threat of severe weather. Although tornadoes tend to peak during the spring…
We may be getting a bit ahead of ourselves, but it’s time to think spring! Even if you’re not quite out of the winter weather woods, we’ve got a short list of tasks you can tackle to get your…
Closets are magic places. They hold lots (and LOTS) of treasures, make great hiding places and are a necessary part of any shopping-obsessed person’s lifestyle. Because they tend to be overfull, a closet’s appearance is sometimes neglected. If you’ve…
Most flooring projects can be filed under the DIY category. But what about installing carpet? (And we’re not talking FLOR tiles, although they’re certainly an attractive flooring option–and can be quickly installed.) Over at the Your Fifth Wall blog…
We’ve talked about energy audits before here at C&H–they’re a great option if you want to gauge your home’s energy efficiency. Audits also provide an ideal starting point if you’re planning on making your abode more eco-friendly. Energy audits…
We’ve talked before about the pros and cons of painting wood trim and brick walls/fireplaces. Although there’s no doubt that a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the look of the piece, one of the biggest disadvantages…
Now that warmer weather is (possibly) on the way (sorry – we’re a little snow-weary here in Kansas CIty!), you may find your DIY list getting even longer with the temptation of warm, sunny days–and more daylight hours–beckoning your…
Painting building roofs white is a movement that’s slowly catching on in big cities. A light-colored roof reflects light, rather than absorbing it, a function that can significantly reduce energy costs. And when air conditioning use is decreased, the…
We’ll be honest with you. Painting cabinets is a pretty serious undertaking. If you’re in the market to update your kitchen but don’t want to invest in new cabinets, painting them (and swapping out hardware) is the easiest way…
We follow several DIY bloggers who are all in varying stages of basement renovations. Whether your lower level needs an update or a complete finish, putting some DIY muscle into your basement can do wonders for your home’s square…
If you’re hopelessly devoted to trend forecasts, then you may have noticed that warm, rustic materials such as bronze and copper are becoming increasingly popular throughout the home. Faucets and fixtures are one thing, but what about copper countertops?…
Spring will soon be here, and that means it’s prime home show time for much of the country. Whether your city hosts a home show or a combined home and garden event, these expos can be valuable resources of…
Although bright or deep hues can certainly make a statement in any room, there’s no denying the power of neutrals. Besides adding a timeless appeal, choosing a neutral wall color makes it easier for you to change the look…
Removing tile is right up there with removing wallpaper as one of the more challenging DIY jobs. If you’ve decided it’s time for new tile, you’ll have to remove the old. This process becomes a lot trickier if you…
The U.S. is in the middle of a boom–or, should we say, a boomer. The nation’s baby boomer generation is now turning 65 in record numbers; nearly 7,000 a day. This generational milestone not only has repercussions on the…
You’re probably familiar with the old saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” If you’re talking about materials, especially wood, there’s no reason to discard pieces just because they’ve seen better days. On the flip side, maybe you’ve…
For book lovers, yesterday’s news of Borders’ bankruptcy filing was a sad day. Along with the filing, the bookseller announced it would close 30 percent of its stores, with those locations yet to be determined. Store closings are never…
At some point in your DIY career, it’s likely you’re going to have to tackle one of the most arduous of tasks–wallpaper removal. Depending on how the wallpaper was originally adhered to the wall, this can be a relatively…
We recently traveled to Las Vegas for SURFACES, and for 2.5 days were immersed in the world of flooring. This was the first year that SURFACES co-located with StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas, creating a show that focused on both flooring and…
Now that a much-needed warm-up has been forecasted across a large portion of the U.S., many homeowners will turn their attention to snow and ice removal, especially those who have been hit hard by recent storms. If the task…
We’ve already talked briefly about cork floors here at C&H. They’re an especially good option for your kitchen because they provide a softer, more shock absorbent surface that’s ideal if you find yourself standing for long periods of time.…
In the market for new stuff? There’s usually an ideal time to buy larger items like cars, electronics and appliances. During the first part of the year, be on the lookout for deals on outdoor items such as furniture…
After attending last week’s SURFACES flooring show in Las Vegas, we’ve got floors on the brain! One of the surprising facts we learned while at the show is despite flooring’s cost (it’s likely one of the most expensive purchases…
So you’re ready to start that big renovation project — a new kitchen, an updated bathroom, or maybe even an entire house! Before you install the new, you’ve got to take care of the old. In the past, the…
Paint is an incredibly versatile medium, but you can also change the look (and functionality) of a wall without it. Common household items can do double-duty, so if you’re looking to update a room, consider these ideas. * Adhesive…
Because cold winter months prompt increased heat usage, it’s no surprise that home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning tend to spike during the season. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and United States Fire Administration have issued a home…
Whether it’s a closet-like powder room or a pint-sized full bath, dealing with a small bathroom can be a headache when it comes to design and functionality. If you’ve been suffering from small bathroom-itis, fear not. We’ve got some…
While we’re busy waiting for flying cars and self-cleaning refrigerators, the masterminds at Apple may already be transforming home security. The tech behemoth was granted more than 550 patents in 2010, and although specific products haven’t yet been announced,…
Here at C&H, we’re big fans of reading. And that means we’re always on the lookout for great bookshelf projects. Adding built-in bookshelves to your home is an ideal way to increase your storage/display capacity. And those one-of-a-kind architectural…
During the colder months, it’s hard to envision lazy summer days spent outside, lounging on outdoor furniture with a book (or your latest DIY to-do list.) We’ll help chase away the winter blues with a suggestion on an outdoor…
The devil really is in the details. A lot of DIYers (us included) get caught up in the big projects: new tile, a kitchen demo, painting, installing hardwood floors, etc. Yet if your hands are itching for a project…
The great thing about a kitchen is, like other rooms in the house, you can make a dramatic new impact with just a couple of changes. Painting or refinishing cabinets is one such project. Heck, even swapping out the…
This post comes to you courtesy of the “warm fuzzies” department. Habitat for Humanity, one of the more recognized philanthropic organizations in the world, has long been known for its ongoing contribution to the homebuilding industry and those in…
A new year — it’s a ripe time for trend forecasts as experts look to the coming months to predict what consumers want. And the paint industry is no exception. As posted by the Paint and Coatings Industry, the…
The bathroom is, arguably, one of the most important rooms in the home–and certainly the most personal. Whether your bathroom style is modern, classic, minimalist or spa-like, selecting the ideal fixtures, components and decor can go a long way…
Brick, like wood trim and other architectural details, is one of those materials that draws strongly opposed crowds when it comes to painting … or preserving. If your brick isn’t in prime condition or you’re eager for a new…
A large portion of the U.S. is currently digging out from a snowstorm. Although it seems the high priority is to shovel your driveway, porch and sidewalk, you should also turn your attention to other parts of your home…
When working with electricity, caution is imperative. It’s ideal to turn off the power source at the breaker box, if applicable, so you can ensure that no lingering electricity can harm you during a project. Two factors to consider…
As your tool collection grows, you may find yourself with too many tools–and not enough space in which to store them. Sure, a tool box or tool cabinet is a great way to keep your collection organized, but if…
We’re still at that point in early January when the new year seems to stretch ahead, a blank canvas waiting to be filled with our enviable endeavors. Maybe you’ve made some DIY resolutions and are planning a major renovation…
They say that your home is your sanctuary, so it only makes sense that your space reflect your interests, tastes and, in the case of at-home saunas, your leisure preferences. What may sound like a frivolous addition to some…
Baseboard moldings are one of those thoughtful touches that polish a room and add just enough architectural aesthetic to make things interesting. Yet depending on your home, you may find yourself with small baseboard moldings that only protrude an…
Ice melt is a terribly useful invention, but the drawback is that many conventional formulas contain a high degree of chemicals that, during a thaw, can run-off into nearby water sources or become absorbed by the groundwater. So what,…
We’ve said it once, we’ll say it again: every successful renovation starts with a healthy dose of planning. Whether you prefer the structured approach of a workbook or something a little more free, making sketches and taking notes are…
The recent tragic deaths of five Florida teenagers is a stark reminder of how dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning can be and how important the need for carbon monoxide monitors is. The colorless, odorless gas can be emitted from a…
Who says all of your DIY fun has to be confined inside during the winter months? If you’re lucky enough to live in a locale that receives snow (or are on the East Coast and have more snow than…
A hot, steamy shower on a cold morning — it’s one of life’s little pleasures, right? Yet there is a downside to the at-home indulgence. Excess moisture created by the steam can wreak havoc on your bathroom, warping wood…
If you have a fireplace, you’re probably used to saving stacks of old newspaper to use as kindling. With a couple of days and a handful of materials, you can also transform newspaper into a fireplace log that can…
Now that Christmas has come and gone, you might have a shiny new electronics gadget — and an old one that’s in need of disposal. Instead of tossing it in the trash, consider one of several recycling options. The…
Yep, you read that right — for just over $1,200, a hand-powered table saw can be yours! The Jointmaker Pro v2, created by Bridge City Toolworks, “is a hybrid device, a hand saw that employs custom Japanese saw blades…
One of the greatest things about DIY projects in your homes is that rooms are a blank canvas. Sure, there are some practical considerations to keep in mind, such as budget, skill, time, etc., but when faced with redoing…
Believe it or not, the kitchen is one of the safest places in which to store valuables while you’re away from home. According to a post by Lifehacker, the kitchen is often overlooked in favor of other rooms such…
A coat of paint here, a new faucet there — minor home improvement projects are relatively easy to tackle. But what about the big stuff? Maybe you want to install hardwood floors, or replace/update your kitchen cabinets, or re-tile…
We’ve arrived at one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. While you’re off enjoying a healthy dose of holiday merriment, take heed of some of our favorite home security tips to give you the peace of mind…
Although the troubled economy has curtailed many homeowners’ major renovation projects, that doesn’t mean remodeling work has come to a complete halt. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry released the results of a poll sent to top builders…
Just as vintage clothes can inject a dose of retro glamour into your wardrobe, vintage home furnishings, appliances and other items add a dose of timeless appeal to your interior. In the kitchen, vintage metal cabinets can be a…
Motion detectors are a popular choice for homeowners seeking additional security. They can be installed in a number of places, including throughout the exterior of your home to active floodlights. And thanks to improved technology, many motion detectors are…
If you have a multi-level house, chances are you’ll encounter the most common type of ceiling issue: drywall damage courtesy of water leaks. This problem has a number of causes, including water from an upstairs bathroom that overflows and…
Need a new furnace? Now is definitely the time to buy. An energy tax credit that gives a credit worth up to $1,500 for upgrading to an energy-efficient furnace expires on Dec. 31. Other energy-saving equipment is also eligible…
In most parts of the country, the threat of pests has diminished thanks to frigid temperatures and inhospitable weather conditions. Yet carpenter ants, one of the most destructive pests, can still strike, especially in warmer parts of the country,…
The new year is nearly upon us, and that means trend forecasts are being released on an almost daily basis. If you’re planning to update your kitchen in 2011, you may want to consider some of these current trends…
Yearning for seclusion? Don’t mind relocating to western Montana? Then we’ve got a deal for you! A piece of land once owned by Ted Kaczynski (better known as the Unabomber) is available for $69,500, a real steal since the…
Although we discussed how to prepare for an ice storm at the end of last week, an event in Kansas City this weekend reminded us that you simply can’t plan for freak accidents. After surpassing the 50-degree mark on…
Earlier this week, we tested the stain-fighting powers of The Home Depot’s Platinum Plus carpet. Next up? Martha Stewart Living carpet, available in 36 designs and four constructions. Martha Stewart’s products are known for being classy yet functional, and…
We recently discovered that there are few things more fun that getting to purposefully dump a bunch of liquids on an unsuspecting carpet sample. Home Depot sent us a couple of carpet swatches, each of which boasts stain-fighting technology,…
With the continued popularity of smart phones and tablets, it seems like there’s a new app every few days. The latest must-have download? The GE Mood Lighting Cam app, a clever invention from the renowned lighting company. Snap a…
File this one under creative genius! Nashville resident and artist Matt Glassmeyer found a way to use 350 vinyl records — attaching them to a roof in place of shingles. Conflicting Internet reports claimed that Glassmeyer’s record roof had…
Taking a break from your home renovation isn’t a bad thing. If you’re at a stopping point before starting other major projects, you may just want to take a few weeks to stop, slow down, and enjoy the progress…
So you have a dilemma. You want to paint a wall, or a piece of furniture. Yet your painting aspirations are currently blocked by a pesky layer of existing paint that won’t budge. The solution might just be the…
The Internet experience is becoming increasingly mobile, thanks to a proliferation of browser-enabled smart phones and tablets like the iPad. Although Home Depot has had an iPhone and iPad app for some time, the company recently redeveloped the application…
Do you have an extra $2 million laying around? Then you could be the owner of a sprawling Frank Lloyd Wright home in Los Banos, Calif. Known as the Fawcett House, the six-bedroom home rests on 80 acres of…