Water is an essential aspect of a properly functioning home, but when it’s not contained within the plumbing system, it can become a source of damage. This is especially common in bathrooms, where even unseen or ostensibly minor leaks can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of destruction. However, this type of water damage can often be easily prevented—all you need is a little time and a handful of materials. Read on to learn how to waterproof your bathroom. Read more

Earlier this week, we posted an article featuring expert tips on bathroom remodeling. One of the aspects mentioned was shower enclosure design, which entails a wide range of options, as well as several practical considerations. To learn more about shower enclosure design options, watch this informative video by Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Joe Matthews, general manager of Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

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“If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put the foundations under them.” ―Henry David Thoreau

Welcome to January. Last month, you cooked up your dream home in a heady mix of holiday punch, gingerbread and champagne. Now, both metaphorically and literally, it’s time to build those foundations. We’ve written often on this blog about how to get started on a house remodeling project (for examples, see “How to Choose a Contractor” and “Choosing Appliances for a Kitchen Remodel”). Carefully choosing a licensed contractor, budgeting attentively and understanding local building laws are all important preliminary steps, Read more

I vividly remember one Christmas Eve when toilet water backed up into my shower and flooded the entire bathroom floor and laundry room. Our many houseguests were taking showers every day and both toilets were being flushed more than usual. What we didn’t know (until it was too late) was that our main sewer line was clogged with tree roots. With extra stress on an already compromised drainage system, it was a recipe for disaster. Since that expensive and embarrassing emergency, I’ve had a professional clean my drains every year to make sure the roots are cut and the water has an easy path to the main line. I haven’t had this problem since. Read more

Earlier this week, we posted an article featuring expert tips about “aging in place” with in-home care. One of the aspects mentioned was creating a safe and accessible living environment that minimizes the risk of injury. To learn more about what this entails, watch this informative video by Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Debbie Allen of Marin Convalescent & Rehabilitation Hospital.

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As I mentioned in last month’s newsletter, I’ve been busy having three bedrooms and a bathroom painted, which forced me to clean out my closets. The project was time-consuming, but I’m happy to say I didn’t spend a lot of money. It made our home more aesthetically pleasing and I’m looking forward to having houseguests again.

That got me thinking about other little things my husband and I could do to spruce things up that wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Read more

Ready to remodel and interested in sustainability? Of course, you should implement well-known Green building solutions such as using sustainable countertop materials and energy-efficient appliances. But according to Don Knapp, a spokesperson for Build it Green, there are many lesser-known Green materials you can utilize to make your remodeling project more environmentally-friendly. Read more