Photo courtesy of Aquasana. Many homeowners need a water filtration system, but the systems vary in cost and effectiveness. Here's a look the different types to determine which is right for your home. "Whole house" water filters located along the main supply line treat all the water throughout your home, making it cleaner, healthier, and free from unwanted tastes and smells. A whole house water filtration system can protect against dangerous bacteria and remove minerals for softer hair and skin. Most whole house systems utilize various types of filters through several stages of filtration. Each filtration stage targets a different contaminant. You'll need to select a filter or whole-house system that targets the unwanted contaminants in your home's water, but there's no need to spend money on a type of filter you do not need. A smart first step in selecting a system is to check your local water quality report to learn of any specific contaminants you need to address. Here’s a rundown of the different types water filters offered as stages of filtration, or as add-ons of a whole house system. Sediment filters Often the first line of defense against unwanted particles, sediment filters are usually included in the pre-filter stage of a whole house system and remove larger granular particles before the water gets filtered for chemicals and other contaminants. Sediment filters remove dirt, rust, silt, clay, sand and other debris. Removing these particles before filtration also prevents clogging at other stages of filtration, which can extend the life of the system. Pros Removes large particles in water Fairly easy to install Relatively low cost Improves performance and longevity of the entire system Cons Replacements needed often Does not remove chemicals, bacteria, or viruses Activated carbon filters Activated carbon is derived from natural materials like charcoal. When water passes through the medium, it absorbs chemicals and releases clean into the water supply. Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters are commonly found in whole house filter systems because the loose carbon particles work efficiently with high water pressure. Pros Improves taste Improves smell Removes chemicals like chlorine Relatively affordable Cons Doesn’t remove large particles like metal Catalytic carbon filters Catalytic carbon filters add gas processing at high temperatures to the process for activated carbon filtration to remove chloramines. Pro Removes chloramines Cons Doesn’t remove chlorine as well Most heavy metals unaffected Additional cost KDF Copper-Zinc filters Kinetic Degradation Fluxion filters, or KDF filters, use copper and zinc to provide additional support the other components of your home water filtration system. With the materials' natural antimicrobial properties, these filters control the release of microorganisms like algae into your water. A KDF-55 or KDF-85 filter is sometimes the final phase for a whole house water-filtration system. Pros Inhibits bacteria and algae growth Improves taste and smell Cons Doesn’t fully remove biomaterials UV filters UV filters use ultraviolet light to eliminate dangerous microorganisms such as E Coli, giardia, and other bacteria and fungi which can cause illness. These filters are often sold as optional add-ons, but may be necessary for people who rely on private well water. Pros Sterilizes up to 99.99% of bacteria and viruses and 99% of cysts Annual lamp replacement is easy No chemicals or particles used Cons Must remain connected to a power source No removal of particles or chemical contaminants Softeners and conditioners Water softeners and conditioners are used in conjunction with whole house water filters to remove magnesium and calcium known to cause "hard water." These minerals can wreak havoc on a home’s plumbing and appliances. Softeners: Utilize ion exchange, which requires salt, to swap the hard water mineral ions with ions from the salt. In addition to salt, softeners also require electricity and generate wastewater. Salt-Free Conditioners: Utilize a scale control media to attract and neutralize mineral ions by forming small, harmless crystals. Salt-free conditioners are considered better for the environment because they require no electricity and produce no wastewater. Pros Prevents scale buildup by addressing hard water minerals Protects pipes and appliances Improves water texture Improves laundry (less damage after washing) Cleaner, streak-free dishes Cons No filtration of chemical contaminants Can be expensive Calcite filters Calcite filters, AKA acid neutralizers, are used to balance the water’s pH levels using natural minerals. Pros Makes acidic water more basic for improved taste Cons Removes no contaminants, only changes pH level Reverse Osmosis filters Reverse Osmosis filters are the most expensive type of whole house water filter but are seen as a single solution to most household water problems. Reverse Osmosis filters work by pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane at high pressure, allowing only clean water to pass into the household supply. These filters are commonly considered the most effective filtration method, but in some cases can actually remove healthy minerals, which negatively affect the water's taste. Some systems include a "remineralizer" that restores healthy minerals lost in the RO process. Due to the high cost of a whole house RO system, homeowners might consider an under-sink RO system located at the most commonly used faucet for drinking water. Pros Offers the most powerful form of filtration Provides the best water for cooking and drinking Cons Expensive Sometimes removes healthy minerals, negatively affecting the water's taste Some systems create wastewater As you can see, there are several types of water filters that serve different purposes. Consider the contaminants in your area and choose a system that offers the stages of filtration you’ll need for your home.

Keep the Change 'Ya Filthy Animal... New data has predicted that Kevin McCallister would have racked up a $70.83 energy bill in his three days Home Alone, if the film was set in 2023. If he was Home Alone for the whole month, the bill would have been just over $700. Although it was released 32 years ago, in many ways, Home Alone is a timeless classic. However, if you’ve started your Christmas movie marathon already this year, you may be shocked by the HUGE amount of electricity that young Kevin McCallister uses in his time Home Alone. In light of the cost-of-living crisis, researchers at interiors brand, Bobbi Beck, have analyzed the film to estimate how much money Kevin’s escapades would cost his parents if the film was set in the modern day. The Bill Researchers calculated that Kevin McCallister would have used at least 472.22kwh of energy in his three days left Home Alone. Based on the average residential electricity rate in his hometown of Chicago (Source: Energy Sage), Bobbi Beck predicts that Kevin's energy bill would be $70.83. It is estimated that Kevin would have spent almost FIVE TIMES more than the average in his local area of Chicago, where the typical daily energy bill is $5.20 (Source: Energy Sage). For context, in the UK, the average daily energy bill is around £2.02 (Source: Uswitch). The Setup How did Kevin rack up such a huge energy bill? We know that Kevin is alone for a total of three days (Source: IMDB) in a huge Chicago house, with six bedrooms and six baths (Source: Zillow). The house is apparently 4,243 square feet on a lot over half an acre in size (Source: Realtor). Kevin uses a lot of electricity in his various schemes, from heating up the doorknob with an electric barbeque lighter to using a record player and toy train track to mimic a party. However, the most significant energy usage comes from the lights, both indoors and outside. During the infamous booby trap scene, we can see that every single light is on, but Kevin does turn them off when he leaves for church. To calculate Kevin’s energy bill, Bobbi Beck investigated three areas of electricity usage: outdoor lights, indoor lights and TV use. Outdoor Lights The data estimates that Kevin would have used $8.10 on outdoor lighting alone if the film was set in 2023. With each side of the house stretching around 20 meters, around 10 sets of lights would be required, guzzling an estimated 54kwh for the three days (Source: Simply LED). Indoor Lights Kevin spent an estimated $62.70 on indoor lighting. Researchers calculated that his home is 2.49 times bigger than an average U.S. house, meaning that they would have an estimated 99.60 lights inside (Source: Visual Capitalist). The lights are likely to be an older, less energy-efficient model, most likely 100W in the estimation of Bobbi Beck’s researchers. They use 0.1kw an hour (Source: Ideal Home) and, because an average eight-year-old boy sleeps for around 10 hours (Source: Sleep Foundation), the lights would be on for roughly 42 hours. Therefore, Kevin would use 418kwh on indoor lights. TV Use Although it’s only a minor cost, researchers also uncovered that Kevin would have spent just 4¢ on TV use. One of the most memorable Home Alone scenes sees Kevin watching a gangster film. He has a TV that is typically less energy efficient than a plasma and uses about 100 Watts of electricity (Source: Scientific American). An average film lasts 2 hours and 10 minutes (Source: Statista), so the gangster film alone would use up 0.217kwh. James Mellan-Matulewicz, CEO of UK decor brand Bobbi Beck commented: “Most of us are currently feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, with energy costs and food prices continuing to remain high. Not only does this impact our day-to-day finances, but it can also change our perspective on things--and Christmas movies are no exception… “Home Alone is arguably the best Christmas movie of all time, particularly well known for its spectacular festive interiors. But when watching the film back, the amount of electricity that Kevin uses is really shocking. That’s why we wanted to crunch the numbers to find out just how much money he would have cost his parents in his three days of chaos.” Editor's Note: These calculations were released by UK decor brand Bobbi Beck, which provides a number of wallpaper designs to suit a range of tastes and personalities.

Crafted using heavy-gauge steel and durable state-of-the-art coatings, steel siding retains its beauty and offers long-lasting, low-maintenance performance. Thanks to its superior durability, steel siding can last up to 50 years or more. In some cases, steel siding is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that covers normal weather wear and tear, such as cracks, blisters, and flaking, as well as hail protection. Available in a range of siding profiles and an extensive array of colors, steel siding comes in styles for both rural and urban settings. Rich coating finishes and wood-grained enhancements can deliver the warmth and feel that is popular with today’s homeowners. Steel siding does have a higher upfront cost than vinyl siding, which is one of the least expensive options available. However, it’s estimated that vinyl siding should be replaced every fifteen, years, and it’s not as resistant to weather damage as steel siding. The higher cost of steel siding pays off in longevity and home protection. Sometimes “steel siding” is used interchangeably with “metal siding,” but there are multiple types of metal siding: steel, aluminum, corrugated metal, box rib metal siding and more. Aluminum and steel are the most popular types of metal siding. Steel siding is more durable than aluminum siding and is also recyclable, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options on the market. Installation at a Glance If you’re a contractor who is new to steel siding, you’ll find that installing lap-style steel siding is similar to installing vinyl siding. The horizontal panels start at the bottom of the walls and interlock at the top and bottom as you proceed with the installation. The panels are fastened to the building envelope through a nailing flange along the top. Make sure you store the steel siding correctly, use the right equipment, and know your processes before you begin. The product should be stored flat to protect everyone from sharp edges. Always lift pieces rather than slide them to prevent scratching. You should have tools such as a circular saw, twin cutter, electrical scissors, tin snips and more depending on your product. Follow your manufacturer’s manual for the best results. For Klauer Residential Steel Lap Siding, individual panels can be cut with tin snips. Start by drawing a line across the panel using a square. Begin cutting at the top lock first and continue toward the bottom of the panel. Break the panel across the butt edge and snip through the bottom lock. Use a screwdriver to reopen the lock, which may become flattened by tin snips. Aviation shears are sometimes used to cut the top and bottom locks, and a utility knife can score and break the face of the panel. For straight cuts, the best choice is duckbill snips. If you foresee yourself cutting steel siding often, a special siding-cutter machine could be a great investment. Using a siding cutter or “guillotine-type” device to cut a vertical right angle is the best method for making straight cuts without damaging the galvanized coating. Remember to wear suitable eye protection and protect exposed skin. You can learn more about steel siding at www.klauer.com. All photos © Klauer Manufacturing Co.

Plans for a new upscale development in Morris, Alabama, called Brae Village, are causing a buzz around our neck of the woods. The homes will feature exterior standards of brick or stone accents, architectural roof shingles and concrete fiber siding. They'll be built with poured concrete foundations, insulated double-panel windows, oil-rubbed bronze exterior hardware, and a porch with a standing-seam metal roof. The first home, a restored 1930s farmhouse, has been listed at $699,900. It sits on 7 acres with a large pond, greenhouse, and barn with a two-car garage. Also included is a new roof, windows, HVAC system, refinished hardwood floors, custom cabinets, lots of marble and much more. Before / After Completely remodeled interior Five impressive Brae Village home plans are available for customization; The Magnolia, The Cottonwood Farm, The Woodland Cottage, The Midnight Mansion, and The Glenn Cottage. Interior standards include 9-foot first floors, crown molding and trim, tray ceilings, hardwood floors (ceramic tile in baths and laundry), 42-in. fireplace with custom mantel and custom oak stair rails. Kitchens and bath standards include granite and marble countertops, custom cabinetry, glass showers, along with high-end materials and amenities. The subdivision will have a beautiful entrance with sidewalks and street lighting. The lots are located on a private sewer, and plenty of beautiful trees decorate the landscape. The Magnolia is a gable filled with windows that separates two porches and gives this Transitional modern farmhouse plan great curb appeal. Two sets of French doors open from the larger porch on the left; one set to the dining room and the other to the living room. A single door opens to the foyer. The Midnight Mansion is a wide open Ranch concept with an optional media room on the second floor. This Modern Farmhouse plan features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Bobbie Alexander and Linda Willis with Re/Max Northern Properties will be marketing the property. Although the lots are not for sale, they are taking lot reservations. A "builder's group" will be overseeing the construction, which will begin in early 2024. The new homes will start in the mid 500's range. You're reading about Brae Village here because we plan to cover the development's cutting-edge building practices and design trends here at Home Improvement & Repairs magazine, so stay tuned for more to come! .

Whether you're removing trees to clear property or to remove a dead tree that poses a safety hazard, the techniques for felling a tree have remained largely the same over the years, relying on careful placement of a notch and hinge. To fell a tree with a chainsaw, you should first assess the tree and the surrounding area to ensure safety. Make sure there are no power lines or other obstacles in the way. Next, determine the direction you want the tree to fall, and plan your cuts accordingly. Is the tree leaning? Do the branches hang mostly in one direction, placing more weight on one side of the tree than the other? Which direction is the wind blowing? It’s easiest to fell the tree in the direction it would naturally fall due to slope, overhang, and wind direction. Felling a tree in a different direction than its natural path requires special techniques known as “directional felling,” greater effort, and sometimes cannot be accomplished, requiring a professional tree surgeon to dismantle the tree piece by piece. Always establish a clear escape route for when the tree begins to fall, at about a 45-degree angle to the tree away from the felling direction. Avoid moving away from the falling tree in a straight opposite direction from which it is falling, because the tree can kickback off the stump and kill or injure people. STEP 1 The notch is made in two parts: the top cut and bottom cut. Start by making a horizontal cut on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall, about one-fifth of the way through the trunk. STEP 2 Then, make a second cut, slightly higher than the first cut and angling downward. This second cut should meet the first cut, creating a wedge-shaped notch. STEP 3 Remove the wood to reveal the notch. This may take some encouragement from an axe or hammer. STEP 4 Once the directional notch has been made, make the felling cut. This is a horizontal cut on the opposite side of the tree that is level with or slightly above the first cut. Cut toward and parallel to the directional notch to create a hinge and cause the tree to fall in the desired direction. The ideal hinge width is about 10 percent the diameter of the tree. STEP 5 Wedges driven into the felling cut can help to open it and tilt the tree in the direction of the directional notch. It's important to always wear protective gear and follow proper safety procedures when using a chainsaw. STEP 6 Once the tree has fallen, the de-limbing process can begin. Most homeowners don’t have the equipment to cut and handle large trees, but professional lumberjacks and tree-removal services can make short work of this chore. SIDE NOTE: The Perfect Hinge The purpose of cutting a directional notch is to create a hinge that controls the path of the falling tree. These diagrams show the particulars of ideal hinge size and placement.

What is “trenchless sewer repair”? “Trenchless” sewer repair is a minimally-invasive technique to repair damaged drainage pipes without the major excavation normally associated with sewer repair. The “trenchless” term refers to doing underground construction work without extensive digging. The main benefit of trenchless sewer repair is that it can be performed without having to re-route traffic or dig a trench through your house. It’s faster than conventional methods and can usually be performed in hours rather than days. The faster service, combined with the costs saved from not having to reconstruct damage to the house, often makes trenchless sewer repair a less expensive alternative to traditional repair methods. Trenchless methods often require only one or two small pits outside the house, just enough to access the pipe. The four most common types of trenchless sewer repair are: · Cured-in-place-pipe lining (aka CIPP or structural pipe lining) involves creating a new pipe within the old one by inserting an epoxy-soaked liner into the damaged pipe and leaving it to cure for a few hours to make the pipe as good as new. · Spray lining and brush coating is a technique similar to structural pipe lining, but instead of using a felt liner to create a new inner pipe, an epoxy or flexible polymer is sprayed or brushed onto the inside of the damaged pipe. · Pipe bursting is used to replace a damaged pipe by using a winch with an attached bursting head to pull a new HDPE pipe into the old pipe. The old pipe breaks, and the new one takes its place. · Slip lining involves inserting a smaller diameter pipe into the damaged one and then filling the area around it with grout. Slip lining dates back to the 1940s, and although it’s considered a trenchless technique, it’s more invasive because a larger pit must be excavated to lower the new inner replacement pipe sections. Trenchless repair techniques are just as effective as traditional methods. In fact, the HDPE replacement pipes used in pipe bursting have a 50-100 year life expectancy. However, these methods don’t work in all cases. The suitability of trenchless repair depends largely on the condition of the damaged pipe. If the pipe is collapsed, back-pitched, or improperly graded, trenchless methods might not work. Or, if the damaged pipe is easy to access, then traditional repair techniques might be more cost-effective. Contact a qualified sewer replacement contractor to determine if trenchless sewer repair will work for your home’s specific problem. Interested in seeing step-by-step photos that explain the trenchless pipe lining method? Jump over to the PlumCore website of Birmingham, Al, and take a look at the process.

Ready to shop? Here are some sweet tool deals for the handyperson in your home. Worx Tools Friday, November 24, WORX BlackFriday sale kicks off at 9 am through 4 p.m. (EST) with a 25 percent discount site-wide. From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (EST), it’s 20 percent off and from 9 p.m. to midnight, there’s 15 percent savings. The versatile WORX Nitro 20V Brushless Switchdriver 2.0 (WX177L) has two revolving 1/4-in. chucks making it the ideal cordless drill for drilling holes and driving screws. Plus, it features a digital interface, greater torque and a high-efficiency brushless motor. Drill a pilot hole, press a button and rotate to the other chuck to drive a screw. Switchdriver 2.0 speeds the process by eliminating add-on accessories and downtime. The WORX 4V 3-Speed Screwdriver (WX240L) won’t break the budget. This tool manages small DIY installation jobs and weighs only 1.5 lbs. The powered screwdriver fits conveniently in a pocket, purse, glove box or kitchen drawer. The screwdriver has three pushbutton torque settings, allowing the user to easily handle delicate jobs without stripping screws. A progressive light display indicates the torque level to which the screwdriver is set. Tired of mowing the lawn? Consider choosing a WORX Landroid robotic mower. Choose the mower based on lot size. Landroid S (WR165) covers areas up to 1/8 acre; Landroid M (WR147) is for lots up to ¼ acre and Landroid L (WR155) handles areas up to ½ acre. There are also a number of Landroid mower accessories to enhance the robotic mowers from Find My Landroid GPS locator and an anti-theft device to Radio Link, which expands signal strength and Landroid Garage Protection and more. Werner NXT Fiberglass Step Ladder National retailers, including The Home Depot and Lowe’s, are offering the latest Werner Ladder innovations at a 40 – 50 percent discount. The NXT Fiberglass 6 ft Step Ladder, winner of the OH&S new product of the year award, features the new visibly distinct color cues for duty ratings, iconographic symbols and interactive safety labels. This make it easier to choose the right ladder and easily review labels before climbing. The NXT1A06 Fiberglass 6ft Step Ladder features a LOCKTOP for maximum storage capacity for the most frequently used tools. Bosch Power Tools Bosch offers a wide range of new cordless and corded tools on sale for Black Friday. For details on specific retailer availability, head to the Bosch webpage for each tool to see where products are available nearest to you. Power Tools Bosch Cordless Rotary Hammer (GBH18V-36CN) On sale for $349 (originally $519) Available from Nov 1 – Dec 31 Bosch 18V 4-Tool Combo Kit with Two-In-One 1/4 In. and 1/2 In. Bit/Socket (GXL18V-497B23) On sale for $299 (originally $349) Available from Nov 1 – Dec 31 18V Two-In-One ¼ In. And ½ In. Bit/Socket Impact Driver/Wrench Kit with 2 Ah Standard Power Battery (GDX18V-1800B12) On sale for $149 (originally $179) Available from Nov 1 – Dec 31 Cordless-Combo-Kit (GXL18V-601B25) On sale for $499 (originally $749) Available from Nov 23 – Nov 27 SDS-plus® Bulldog™ Xtreme 1 In. Rotary Hammer (11255VSR) On sale for $199 (originally $219) Available from Nov 1 – Dec 31 Measuring Tools Blaze 65ft Laser Distance Measure With Real Time Measuring (GLM20)) On sale for $39 (originally $49) Available from November 1 – Dec 31 Image: LINK Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser (GLL30S) On sale for $49 (originally $69) Available from November 1 – Dec 31 Image: LINK Oneida Air Systems Got wood dust? Oneida Air Systems has a sale on dust-collection systems for the pro carpenter or woodworker. Harbor Freight Tools

Winters can be harsh, and a well-functioning furnace is your home's best ally in keeping you warm. However, just having a furnace isn't enough; optimizing its performance is essential for both comfort and cost-effectiveness. While it is advisable to rely on professional HVAC services for comprehensive heating maintenance, there are more proactive measures you can take to enhance the performance and extend the overall lifespan of your furnace. Before diving into the nitty-gritty of improving your furnace's efficiency, it’s important to understand why it matters. A well-performing furnace not only ensures consistent warmth but also helps cut down on energy consumption, leading to reduced utility bills. Moreover, an efficient furnace contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment, which is a win-win for both your wallet and the planet. Proactive Ways to Increase the Performance of Your Furnace Your furnace might be diligently doing its job, but there are plenty of things you can do to enhance its efficiency and make it work even better. These often-overlooked strategies can help ensure your heating system operates at its optimal best, providing you with a warmer home and lower energy bills. 1. Switch to Programmable Thermostats: Precision Heating, Lower Bills Programmable thermostats offer a nuanced approach to temperature control by allowing you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, adjusting the heating output according to your daily routine. By lowering the temperature when you're away or asleep, you not only enhance your comfort but also experience significant energy savings. This small investment can result in substantial long-term benefits for both your comfort and your wallet. 2. Invest in Vent Boosters: Balancing Airflow for Consistent Heating Vent boosters, or register fans, are an often-overlooked solution to uneven heating. These devices are installed in the ductwork or directly over vents to enhance airflow. By boosting air circulation, vent boosters ensure that every room in your home receives an adequate amount of warm air, promoting consistent heating, which can make a noticeable difference in the comfort of your living spaces. 3. Implement Zoning Systems: Tailored Comfort for Every Room Zoning systems introduce a level of customization that standard heating setups often lack. By dividing your home into distinct zones with independent temperature controls, you can optimize energy usage. Unoccupied rooms no longer need to be heated, leading to significant energy efficiency gains. Zoning systems provide tailored comfort while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption, making them a valuable investment for both your comfort and your energy bills. 4. Make Use of Ceiling Fans: Your Furnace's Secret Ally Ceiling fans, typically associated with cooling, can be strategically employed during winter. Reversing the direction of ceiling fans in winter months helps push warm air down, assisting your furnace in maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your living spaces and preventing heat from accumulating near the ceiling. This energy-efficient method promotes better air circulation and enhances the overall efficiency of your home’s heating system. 5. Ensure Attic Insulation: A Top-Down Approach to Efficiency Attic insulation is a crucial yet often underestimated aspect of home heating efficiency. Proper insulation in the attic acts as a barrier, preventing warm air from escaping through the roof. This not only preserves the heat generated by your furnace but also reduces the workload on the heating system. Exploring and upgrading your attic insulation can result in a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. 6. Consider Home Insulation Upgrades: Improve Overall Energy Efficiency Beyond the attic, comprehensive insulation upgrades can further improve your home's overall energy efficiency. Insulating walls, floors, and crawl spaces create a thermal barrier, reducing heat transfer and making it easier for your furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home. This holistic approach to insulation enhances the effectiveness of your heating system and contributes to long-term energy savings. 7. Install Energy-Efficient Windows: A Clear Path to Savings Windows are notorious for heat loss, but upgrading to energy-efficient options can make a significant impact. Double or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity coatings minimize heat transfer and provide better insulation. This not only keeps your home warmer but also eases the burden on your furnace. Investing in energy-efficient windows is a practical and effective way to enhance your home's thermal performance. 8. Figure Out How to Optimize Your Airflow: Unblock Vents for Maximum Efficiency Efficient airflow is essential for your furnace to operate optimally. Ensure that vents are unobstructed by furniture or other obstacles, allowing warm air to circulate freely. This simple yet effective step promotes even heating throughout your home, optimizing your furnace's performance. By maintaining unobstructed airflow, you can enhance the overall efficiency of your heating system. 9. Try Reflective Radiator Panels: Functional Heat Retention Reflective panels placed behind radiators serve a dual purpose – they add a touch of style to your home while improving heat retention. These panels prevent heat from being absorbed by walls, reflecting it into the room. This simple addition maximizes the effectiveness of your radiators, ensuring that the warmth they generate is utilized efficiently, ultimately reducing the workload on your furnace. Incorporating these innovative strategies into your home heating approach not only ensures a warmer and more comfortable living space but also contributes to significant energy savings. By investing a little time and effort in maintaining and optimizing your home’s heating system, you may be able to unlock the full potential of your furnace and make this winter your coziest and most cost-effective one yet.

(guest post courtesy of Barrett Pressure Washing) Sealing pavers improves the look and feel of an outdoor space. High-quality paver sealers create a glossy finish that instantly transforms a patio, driveway, or walkway into a stunning focal point. Sealant highlights the pavers’ natural colors and patterns, making them more appealing. This simple step can improve an outdoor space’s aesthetics. Sealing pavers improves their appearance and protects a homeowner’s investment. Sealing pavers, which are expensive outdoor additions, will prolong their life. A good paver sealer prevents stains, oil spills, dirt, and other contaminants from damaging the surface. By sealing pavers, a homeowner is extending their lifespan and avoiding costly repairs or replacements. Sealing pavers keeps them clean and maintained for longer. The sealant protects the porous pavers from dirt, moss, algae, and weeds. This means fewer hours spent scrubbing or pressure washing stubborn stains or vegetation. Sealed pavers stay clean with regular sweeping and light rinsing. Sealing pavers protects and beautifies them. It efficiently protects a homeowner’s investment from stains and contaminants. Sealed pavers also require less upkeep to stay clean and attractive. Now that it’s clear why sealing is important let’s talk about how paver sealant can make pavers last longer. Applying a protective layer will keep pavers looking great for years. Paver sealant protects a homeowner’s investment easily. Sealing pavers protects them from stains, moisture, and UV rays and brings out their vibrant colors and textures. Paver sealant is easy to apply for DIY'ers. Before applying, clean and dry the pavers. Pressure wash or scrub dirt, debris, and stains from the surface. Before continuing, let the pavers dry after cleaning. Choose the right sealant for the pavers. Acrylic and solvent-based sealants are available. Consider climate and foot traffic when choosing a sealant for the project. Barrett Pressure Washing of Largo, Florida, has posted an in-depth article which explains to homeowners the process of paver and driveway sealing, including the various types of sealants available, how to choose the right sealant to match the local climate, how to maintain paver sealing, the importance of the process, the array of benefits sealer paving offers and any factors that homeowners may need to consider before committing to the service. Editor's Note: Photography in this article appears courtesy of Barrett Pressure Washing.

Building a simple swing-set is a fairly straightforward DIY project, but designing and constructing a large, elaborate play set can be quite a challenge and an expensive, time-consuming chore. An easier solution for the handy homeowner is to assemble the project from a kit, as the HIR staff did with the Endeavor play set from Backyard Discovery. Compared to purchasing the individual components of a similar play-set design, the cost of the Backyard Discovery kit might even be less than shopping for the materials yourself—and a heck of a lot easier. All the hardware has also been chosen for you, including heavy-duty metal plate connectors and precisely sized screws and carriage bolts for each phase of assembly. Plus, the all-cedar play set reduces waste and expense because all the components are pre- cut to size, saving you many hours of labor and significant money in lumber. With the small, tight knot structure of cedar, the wood is less likely to develop small cracks from knots. Cedar is also naturally resistant to rot and decay. Plus, the lumber is already pre-stained for a smooth and clear appearance, as well as stamped with the part number to help speed up the building process. And when it comes to assembly, the easy-to-follow instructions are laid out in simple step-by-step format with clearly marked illustrations. By following the clear and concise directions, a single person with a few key power tools can complete assembly over the course of 2-3 days—much more quickly than it would take to build a similar play-set from the ground up. (Some pilot-hole drilling may be required.) Here’s a look at the Endeavor project and a few thoughts on our experience assembling the kit. Features of the Kit If you’re old enough to assemble the project, then chances are likely that you aren’t hip the newest in-demand amenities of modern play sets. Backyard Discovery has it all figured out, and the Endeavor kit features a climbing wall, rope ladder, and a double-wide rock wall. Two traditional belt swings are accompanied by a large 40-in. full 360-degree spinning web swing. At the top is a roof-covered fort with a 5-foot deck that opens to a 10-ft. wave slide. The play-set meets and exceeds all ASTM standards for safe, reliable construction. Site Prep Prior to ordering a play set, check the manufacturer’s guidance regarding the footprint of the project. Construction requires a relatively flat site with proper drainage that has enough area to encompass the play-set’s footprint plus a “safe zone” around the base for the kids to play—usually an additional 6 feet of unobstructed room around the perimeter. You’ll need to clear and mow the building site and even level the ground in some situations. On our site, the ground had a slight slope toward the front and left-hand side. To accommodate this, we compacted the ground with a hand tamper then laid rows of 16-in. square concrete pavers as a foundation beneath the front wall and left-hand side of the play set. This achieved a level foundation and added extra moisture protection to the wood components, which would be slightly elevated above the soil. When selecting a site, you’ll need fairly level ground and enough area to build the play set plus a 6-foot “safe zone” around its perimeter. Assembling the Play Set Expect the assembly process to take a few days, so plan according to the weather. The entire kit was shipped to our location in three large boxes. You will need to empty all the contents of each and arrange the building components so the part numbers are clearly visible. A little organization at first will make it much easier and faster to locate the parts identified in the instructional manual. The hardware is similarly organized with all the bags labeled according to size. Arrange all parts and supplies according to the log numbers stamped on each of them (or printed on the bags of fasteners). The large number of parts and hardware might appear daunting at first, but don’t get discouraged. Follow the instructions, and you’ll quickly see progress in your project. Just remember how they say you’re supposed to eat an elephant (one bite at a time). For a project like this, the advantages of building from a kit are plentiful. The time and hassle it saved me could be measured in days, not hours. I didn’t have to source materials from different places or calculate all the different fasteners I’d need. All the materials arrived on site pre-cut and pre-drilled, which is perfect for any DIY’er with limited tools and equipment. Plus, each wood component shows up prefinished from the factory, and that alone might save enough time and labor to convince some folks that this is the way to go. A few standard power tools, such as an impact driver, will help with assembly. The kit even includes the required screwdriver bits for the many bolts and fasteners. I found that a cordless impact wrench came in handy for some of the larger hex-head bolts and lag screws. A single worker with a strong back can assemble the play set over a couple days (I did). However, without a helper you’ll occasionally need to hold or support the project using a couple of sawhorses and even a sturdy ladder. This will help keep the leg and swing-set assemblies upright while you connect some of the larger frame components. Some of the major frame connections are made with metal plates that strengthen the areas prone to the most torsion and tension. It’s important to level the frame as you progress. Adjustments made to the play set’s ground-level contact points will be easier to address before you’ve built it into a large, heavy mass that is difficult to lift and move. Much of the assembly is connected using carriage bolts and T-nuts, which is a smart design because the T-nuts remain safely flush with the wood, rather than have a metal projection that can cause potential injury. It’s important to note, however, that whenever the T-nuts are specified, they should first be hammered into the pre-drilled holes before inserting the carriage bolts. Doing so will sink the burrs of the nuts into the wood, which holds them steady and prevents slipping or spinning when driving the bolts. Some simple on-site fastener organization will also make your job easier. I recommend using a magnetic screw tray for the various phases of the project. Otherwise, cleaning up an accidental spill while you work can be a very frustrating way to stop your progress. Even though the play set includes a roof, no roofing experience is required for assembly. In fact, the roof kit comes as six pre-assembled panels which can be installed while standing on the deck and fastened to the frame from below. It's fast and easy. I was greatly satisfied with the building experience as well as the quality of the Backyard Discovery product. Genuine cedar, stainless fasteners, metal plate connectors … These are select materials that will stand the test of time. My three kids are having a blast playing in the backyard every day. Critical connections that are subject to a lot of movement and wear are strengthened with metal plates. An impact driver and this cordless Metabo-HPT impact wrench (model WR36DE) helped to speed up the assembly process. The kit is assembled in a few large separate sections, so that even a single worker can assemble the set over a couple of days. Most of the carriage bolts are tightened with T-nuts, which should be hammered flush with the wood surface prior to driving the bolts. Be sure to level the assembly as you go, so it doesn’t get too heavy to move if you need to make an adjustment. If you’re working without an assistant, you’ll need some sawhorses or a sturdy ladder to help hold the large sections upright while you make the connections. I appreciate such details as notched stair stringers and pre-drilled pilot holes, knowing how much time and later it would take me to do that work myself. You’ll be working with a lot of fasteners, and simple equipment such as a magnetic screw bowl can help you keep the site tidy and organized. When faced with repetitive tasks, it saves times to pre-position your fasteners then fire through them with your cordless driver for faster productivity. Need to install a T-nut but have no clearance to swing hammer? Try using a clamp to sink the nut flush with the wood, then drive in your carriage bolt. The play set is chock full of features, including a rope-climbing wall, a rock-climbing wall, web swing, wave slide, toy telescope, cow bell and more. The roof installs as six modular panels which you can assemble from atop the deck of the play set. Tighten all fasteners to strengthen the connections and reduce movement in the frame. If using a high-torque power tool, however, don’t over-tighten the carriage bolts to the point that the bolts pull the T-nuts below the wood surface Final Step is to bolt on the ground screws and drive them into the ground to prevent any tilting in the play set when the children swing. The play set shown is the Endeavor model by Backyard Discovery. Find out more about the company’s kit-built offerings at www.backyarddiscovery.com.

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If you're handy with a measuring tape, a power saw and a screwdriver, then you can devise a patio table customized with your own look and embellishments. You can construct one of virtually any size or style and preserve it to last for years. This blog post won't spend too much time on the countless design and finishing options of a patio table, and instead will use a particular table that we built as an example, and you can apply the same building principles to your own project. The patio table shown here measured 6 feet long and was built high enough to match an existing patio bench. It’s a simple recreational table with rugged construction techniques that you can apply to a range of DIY projects around the home. Step one: Choose the right wood. Pressure-treated lumber or Western Red Cedar are good options because they withstand the outdoor elements. Application of wood preservative can prolong the table's durability, and some products can even provide UV protection for tables exposed to direct sunlight. The table in this article was built of pine boards that were charred with a torch to preserve the wood and give it more decorative character. You can construct the table with a variety of wood-joining techniques. This table was built primarily with pocket screws. The table shown is built from 4x4 legs and 1x4 pine boards used as framing and cross-members. Most of the joints were made with a combination of pocket screws and Titebond 3 wood glue (which I recommend when gluing charred wood). To build the table with sturdy leg connections, I wrapped the tops of the 4x4s with a 1x4 box apron and inserted carriage bolts to join each leg to the apron. I strengthened the connection with wood glue to arrest any movement. To make the corners of this short table more "shin-friendly," I use a shot glass as a marking template then rounded off the points with a jigsaw. I installed four 1x4 cross-braces to strengthen the apron and ensure the table remained square. The cross-braces provide support for the 1x6 tabletop boards. For the table top, I combined two 1x8 with a center 1x10. I added 1x3 stiffeners across the ends of the table-top boards and fastened them with glue and wood screws. The 1x3s will keep the board ends aligned and add strength and durability to the table edge. Use plenty of clamps on a workbench to maintain alignment when attaching the table base to the table top.