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So you’ve just renovated your house. Or, you've just moved in! But something is missing. That something is color—the homeowner’s secret weapon. Color can be used to help define interiors and create focal points in relatively featureless rooms. The trick is figuring out how to pick paint colors to use and where to put them. Picking paint colors that you want to use inside your home is not an easy task because in all likelihood you will actually want them to last a while. Here are some things that you should consider when picking interior paint colors:Does it “fit” with...

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends using a self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet underlayment in areas where ice-dam protection is required. An ice-dam protection membrane should extend from an eave’s edge to a point 24” inside the interior face of a building’s exterior wall; if a roof’s slope is less than 18 degrees, the ice-dam protection membrane should extend 36” beyond the exterior wall.When choosing a specific product, check the product labels or specification sheets to verify a material is labeled as complying with ASTM D970, the standard for self-adhering sheet materials.One word of caution: although most self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet...

Late winter can feel like a waiting period for homeowners eager to start spring projects. While outdoor work may still be on hold, this time of year is ideal for tackling indoor improvements that can refresh your home and set you up for success when warmer weather arrives. Whether you’re looking to make small updates or prepare for larger renovations, these indoor projects are perfect for DIYers ready to stay productive through the end of winter. Refresh Walls and Trim Late winter offers excellent conditions for interior painting. With lower humidity and closed windows, paint can cure evenly and dry...

When the weather turns cold and outdoor projects go on pause, it’s the perfect time to tackle quick, rewarding updates indoors. These weekend projects can improve comfort, appearance, and even energy efficiency—all without requiring a major investment of time or money. Seal in the Warmth Drafty windows and doors are a leading cause of winter energy loss. Use a simple caulking gun and weatherstripping to seal gaps, keeping cold air out and warm air in. This small fix can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and heating costs. Update Lighting Fixtures As daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more...

One aspect of home improvement that many DIYers don’t think about is the building permit. Not getting one, however, can make the job cost way more than anticipated. That is due to the fines and added expenses that could result. Simple repairs don’t normally call for permits but major changes, especially those that involve changes to the structure, electrical, heating or plumbing system will require permits. It’s important to note that when hiring a contractor, make sure it is clear up-front that they will be responsible for obtaining the appropriate permits. Some examples of work that will most likely require...