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Come celebrate the opening of Palmer Museum’s new home in the Arboretum. The Palmer will be open to all for a weekend of fun programming for all ages.

Season five of “Home Improvement” is a solid middle ground between the series’ promising start and its drop-off end, featuring several of its finest episodes.

1. Tool Time

Home Improvement starred Tim Allen as Tim “The Toolman” Taylor, host of the home-improvement TV show Tool Time. The series ran for eight seasons.

Al – The show’s straight man with a dry sense of humor. His favorite board games are Parcheesi and Chinese Checkers. He also likes bingo.

Guests on Tool Time have included The Beach Boys, Rodney Dangerfield, George Foreman, the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia, Dave Chappelle, Jim Breuer, and Drew Carey as a road kill remover.

Heidi Keppert (Debbe Dunning) – The second “Tool Girl” and a master electrician. Initially she was seen mostly in and around the set. She is eye candy for the male audience and a frequent subject of jokes about her cleavage and body. She and Tim share a child, Brad.

2. Home Improvement

Home Improvement was a successful American sitcom that ran for eight seasons. The show was well received by both critics and audiences, winning several awards and nominations. The main cast of the show included Tim Allen, Richard Karn, Casey Sander, and Debbe Dunning. The show was also known for its catchy theme song and blooper scenes.

In the last episode of the series, Randy left for an environmental study program in Costa Rica. Despite this, the cast remained close throughout the show’s run. In 2003, the cast reunited for a special called Home Improvement Presents: A User’s Guide, which featured favorite clips, insider tips, and personal reflections. The show’s creator, Tim Allen, was the host. He was joined by co-stars Karn and Dunning, as well as a terminally ill Earl Hindman who provided voice-overs for Wilson.

4. Anniversary Party

In one of the series’ most lighthearted and fun episodes, Jill uses her inheritance to buy a 1967 Austin-Healey that Tim doesn’t want. So, he hotwires it and tries to drive it away!

As with the previous DVD sets, this one is devoid of extra features. Still, it looks great presented in its original 1.33:1 widescreen aspect ratio.

Palmer started her career as a topless dancer in London’s Windmill Theatre before becoming a glamour model for the Strobe Studios photo agency and studio, which sold prints to amateur photographers and featured models in popular magazines such as Practical Photography. She also appeared in 8mm glamour films by Harrison Marks (Flesh and Fantasy, Photo Session, Taste the Blood of Dracula) and Russell Gay and Express Films (Body Beautiful [2]). Palmer married stuntman Arthur Howell in 1966 and divorced him in 2000.

Maintaining a home can be expensive, especially for seniors. Fortunately, there are resources available to help senior homeowners afford needed renovations and repairs.

The Section 504 Home Repair Loan and Grant Program is one such resource, aimed at helping elderly individuals in rural areas. Additionally, the FHA’s Limited 203(k) program allows homeowners to include home improvements and renovations in their mortgage.

Aging in Place

Many seniors want to continue living at home as they age. It’s a desire that, with a little planning and DIY projects, may be possible to achieve.

In addition to modifying the home, seniors should also look into options for in-home care services and community resources. These can help with tasks that become more difficult as a person ages, such as transportation and housekeeping.

Several simple modifications can be made to a home to make it more aging-in-place friendly, such as adding non-slip flooring in the bathroom and kitchen, removing throw rugs, installing grab bars in the shower or by toilets and exchanging doorknobs for lever-handled models. It’s also a good idea to have a personal alert system that can be used to call for assistance if needed. This type of device can be especially helpful in preventing falls and allowing for immediate help if an accident occurs.

Safety

Many older people face health-related accidents at home, such as falls, burns and poisoning. Home safety renovations can help prevent these accidents, lower a senior’s stress and improve their quality of life.

Installing handrails on stairs and in the bathroom, removing tripping hazards like area rugs and installing light switches at the top and bottom of the staircase are simple ways to make a home safer for seniors. Adding a CO2 detector and smoke alarm to the house, and checking batteries regularly, are also important to ensure safety.

Using a personal loan can be a great way to finance safety improvements to the home. These loans typically have low interest rates and are not tied to your credit. Other options for financing safety renovations include state housing finance agencies and nonprofit organizations such as Rebuilding Together. These programs have income-limit requirements, so be sure to check eligibility before applying. GPS trackers, which are available in many forms such as on phones, can be helpful for seniors who wander from home.

Energy Efficiency

Having a home that’s energy efficient can benefit seniors in several ways. According to a 2020 report, low-income households spend over six percent of their income on energy costs, which can be particularly high for seniors with limited resources.

One way to reduce energy costs for older adults is through an improved home’s insulation and air sealing. This can help to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year and save on heating and cooling expenses.

Additionally, there are some states and local utilities that offer assistance with lowering household energy costs for elderly homeowners. These programs can provide for things like caulking, HVAC maintenance and other services that improve energy efficiency.

Lastly, many states, local governments and non-profit organizations have funding available for aging in place remodels or renovations. These programs can be a great resource for helping homeowners pay for projects like installing grab bars around the toilet or converting an upstairs bedroom into a ground-floor primary suite.

Financial Assistance

Home repairs and modifications can be costly, and it’s important for seniors to explore available resources to help reduce their cost. Many local and state programs provide financial assistance for certain home improvements. For example, the New York RESTORE program covers a wide range of repairs to eliminate unsafe conditions like faulty wiring and leaky roofs. Additionally, the FHA’s Limited 203(k) financing option allows homeowners to include the purchase and renovation of a property in a single mortgage for a streamlined solution.

Area Agencies on Aging are another valuable resource, providing connections to local and national grant programs that offer support for specific home repairs. Additionally, energy efficiency programs such as Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAPs) can help low-income households install insulation, caulking and HVAC maintenance to save on utility bills.

Many homeowners want to upgrade their homes, but don’t have the time or budget for extensive renovations. These simple home upgrades can help your house feel newer without breaking the bank.

Repair or Replace Appliances

It’s often hard to decide whether an appliance is worth repairing or it’s time to move on. Consider these guidelines when making your decision:

Laminate Floors

Laminate is a great floor option for many areas of the home. It is available in an amazing range of styles and colours from traditional oak and hickory to contemporary grey and white.

This flooring is incredibly hard-wearing and highly resistant to scratches, dents and stains. Its protective wear layer is particularly good at resisting scuff marks and scratches commonly caused by pets, children, shoes, furniture and sharp objects.

It also protects the decorative paper layer from sunlight fading, shielding it from ultraviolet rays that can bleach color. It is easy to install, with boards fitted using a tongue and groove joint and glued together with water-resistant adhesive.

Appliance Upgrades

Adding luxury appliances to your home is one of the most effective ways to increase its value and enhance your living experience. In addition to enhancing functionality and aesthetics, appliances with energy-efficient features can lower your utility bills and offer long-term cost savings.

When deliberating between repairs and upgrades, consider the long-term value of each option. Repairing outdated appliances may be a quick fix to a minor problem, but upgrades can provide more modern technology and advanced features that will be attractive to potential buyers in the future. They also improve indoor air quality and contribute to reduced energy consumption and natural resource depletion, which can benefit the environment.

Door Handles

Door handles are a key component to the look and feel of your doors. They are available in a wide variety of styles, colours and finishes to suit both contemporary and traditional homes. They are usually fitted on a round rose but can also be mounted to a latchset, bathroom thumb turn or escutcheon depending on the requirements of your door.

Levers are easy to use for everyone, including young children and clever pets. Their design is also less likely to catch your knuckles on the edge of a door frame. This makes them a great choice for doors that will be used by people with limited mobility or physical disability.

Crown Molding

Crown molding is an elegant way to frame walls and give a house a cared for appearance. It is also a great way to hide wires or cables that can look shabby in a room.

There are several types of crown moldings that can be used in your home, but wood is a traditional choice. However, it is expensive and requires a lot of skill when working with it.

Another option is medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which is inexpensive but still looks good. There are even a few stock designs that can be painted, which is a great alternative to custom work. This molding can also be used on mantels and bookshelves to give a graceful look.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors add a rich, authentic look to any space. They are durable, easy to clean and have a positive impact on indoor air quality. They also increase resale value, as home buyers prefer them to carpeting.

Solid hardwood planks are made from one piece of 100% natural wood, offering durability and longevity. You can choose from a variety of widths, colors, streaks and patterns for a customized flooring design.

Engineered hardwood offers many of the same benefits as solid flooring but are more resistant to temperature and moisture fluctuations. It’s suitable for above ground spaces, such as living and dining areas, kitchens and bedrooms.

Home improvement is the repairing, renovating, altering, converting or adding to a residential building. It includes work on driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, patios, fences, porches, kitchens and bathrooms.

Look for a builder that specializes in the type of project you need. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations. Visit a builder’s job sites and model homes.

Licensed and Insured

Whether you’re hiring someone to build a swimming pool, paint your home, or perform any other home improvement project, it’s always important to work with licensed contractors. Licensing provides a baseline of knowledge and skill, while bonding and insurance provide financial protection.

A licensed contractor must show proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation before getting a license, so it stands to reason that you should ask to see these documents before hiring anyone to work on your home. You should also inquire about a surety bond, which covers unsatisfactory work or non-payment by the contractor.

If you find yourself unable to secure any references, you can always check with your local department of consumer protection for information on complaint history. You can also visit the website of your state’s licensing board to determine whether or not a contractor is licensed. However, it’s important to note that online contractor referral services may not check for this information, so you should still request these documents before hiring someone to do any work at your home.

Experience

A home improvement builder who has experience with your project will be able to answer any questions you may have. This will save you time and money in the long run. They will also be able to provide you with an accurate timeline for how long it will take to complete your job.

Home improvement contractors are involved in repairing, remodeling, altering, converting, renovating, modernizing, painting or improving residential and noncommercial property. This includes, but is not limited to, the construction, installation or replacement of driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, terraces, patios, landscaping, fences, garages, fallout shelters and basements.

In addition to having experience with your project, ask your home improvement builders about their certifications and memberships in industry organizations. They should also carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This will protect you if an accident happens on the job site. They should be able to provide you with a contract with a detailed work schedule, payment schedule and specifics about your project, including the types or brands of materials to be used.

Good References

Having good contractor references is one of the most important things to look for in a home improvement builder. The answers to questions about how well the contractor stuck to their timeline, if they played by the rules, and whether or not they pulled all necessary permits can give you a sense of their overall professionalism.

Ask for references from projects similar to yours and try to talk to homeowners who worked with them during the project. They’ll be able to tell you how happy they are with the final result and whether or not they would work with them again.

Make sure to also talk to references from projects that were installed a few years ago to see how well they’re holding up over time. This will help you get a sense of how long the contractor has been in business and how much they’ve grown as a company. It will also help you know if they’re still capable of completing the quality of work you need.

Good Communication

One of the most important aspects of working with a residential contractor is good communication. It’s when homeowners articulate their vision and contractors echo those details back to them that the building process is defined by clarity, minimizes misunderstandings and maximizes project efficiency.

Whether in person, over the phone or via email, communication should be clear and direct. Avoid using jargon or excessive wording that can be confusing for homeowners. It is also a best practice to have only one person in your company authorized to communicate details about the build, as this eliminates miscommunication and reduces the amount of time needed to resolve any issues.

No building project is 100 percent problem-free – something will go wrong at some point, but it can be significantly reduced by choosing a contractor who has your best interest in mind and puts you first. Pay attention to how the contractor treats you during your initial meeting as this is a good indication of their communication style throughout the entire project.

Whether your roofing system needs repair or replacement or you are considering adding solar panels, Quality First Home Improvement can help. This Diamond Certified contractor specializes in residential roofing, windows, solar, TEX-COTE coating, exterior doors and painting. It has been serving customers since 2005 and is a member of the Better Business Bureau.

Roofing

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Quality Home Improvement Inc.

Quality Home Improvement is a fully licensed and insured home improvement company that offers roofing services, windows, decks, kitchen and bathroom renovations, and more. They’re a family-owned and operated business that’s been in business for 15 years. They offer free estimates and a lifetime guarantee on all their work. They service the 5 boroughs, and Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange County. They’re a great choice for your next home improvement project! They’re experienced and reliable, and their team is highly qualified. They also provide competitive rates and fast turn around times.

Solar

Whether you’re interested in replacing your old, leaky roof or converting to solar energy to save on your electricity bill, Quality Home Improvement Inc can help. They have the training and experience to handle any roof replacement or solar panel installation job, large or small.

Besides roofing, the company also offers other services, such as window replacement and installation, Tex-Cote Coolwall coating, patio covers, concrete pavers, kitchen/bathroom remodels, attic insulation, heating and air, and exterior painting. It is an authorized seller of the ENERGY STAR Certified products and an elite Diamond Certified contractor with more than 35,000 satisfied customers.

Sometimes roof-mounted solar systems are not feasible due to the angle of the property or the size of the roof. In these cases, the crew at Quality Home Improvement, Inc can install a ground-mounted system on your property using standard ground mounts or pole mounts. Their experience and knowledge will ensure that your investment in solar panels is protected for years to come.

Painting

Painting services are available from Quality Home Improvement Inc in Staten Island. They offer interior and exterior painting services for residential and commercial properties. They have been providing these services for more than 20 years. Their team of painters is highly skilled in providing high-quality work and ensuring that the job is done right. They also provide free estimates and are fully licensed and insured. They are experienced in completing both small and large projects. Their team of painters is dedicated to completing the job on time and within budget. They have extensive experience in working with homeowners, property managers and real estate agents. They also have a great reputation for customer satisfaction. Call them today for more information.

Add Ventures offers construction, roofing and painting services for residential and commercial properties in the Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess and Orange counties of New York.

Zachery Ty Bryan quickly transitioned from playing eldest son Brad Taylor on Home Improvement to a range of TV and movie roles. He even lent his talents to production, demonstrating a deep understanding of storytelling from behind the camera.

But now the actor is facing legal troubles again. He was arrested on a fourth-degree felony assault charge in Eugene, Oregon, on Friday.

Home Improvement

Despite having a tough time making it in Hollywood after his days on Home Improvement, Zachery Ty Bryan still credits the sitcom with helping him find work. He’s been in a few TV shows and movies since then, but the former teen heartthrob recently admitted to struggling with alcoholism.

The 39-year-old actor — who played Brad Taylor’s eldest son on the ’90s hit show — was arrested in Oregon on Friday for felony assault. TMZ reports that police responded to a call about a physical dispute at a residence in Eugene. The site adds that Bryan was not at the property when law enforcement arrived, but he was later tracked down, taken to jail and booked.

He pleaded guilty to two felony counts and will serve seven days in prison as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. He was also ordered to participate in a batterer intervention program.

The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift

After a fruitful childhood acting career that led to a role on Home Improvement, Bryan continued his work with a number of other iconic TV series. He made appearances on Cold Case, E.R., Smallville and Veronica Mars before transitioning into film production. Bryan has produced a handful of films, including Prowl, Rogue River and The Grief Tourist.

Bryan was arrested in California for alleged DUI on Saturday, according to court records. La Quinta sheriff’s deputies stopped a vehicle he was driving after observing indications of impairment. He has been charged with a felony DUI and misdemeanor contempt of court, and he is scheduled to appear in Indio Larson Justice Center on April 23. He is yet to comment on the arrest.

Prowl

The verb prowl means to move stealthily as if you are hunting for prey. Your cat might prowl around the room, waiting to pounce on your feet. You could also say someone is on the prowl for a new romantic partner.

Bryan, who played Tim Allen’s oldest son Brad on Home Improvement, started his acting career by appearing in local print and TV ads in Denver. He then appeared in a showcase in New York City, where he caught the eye of a talent rep and moved to California.

In 2020, he was arrested for allegedly assaulting Johnnie Cartwright. He received three years of probation and had to attend a violence intervention program as part of his plea deal. He has since been involved in other domestic violence incidents.

Rogue River

The town of Rogue River, Oregon is home to quaint shops and cafes. The picturesque city is also known for its scenic landscape and outdoor recreation opportunities, including rafting, fishing and kayaking on the Rogue River. Rogue River is also home to events such as the Rooster Crow Festival, a quirky celebration of rural life and community spirit.

Rogue River’s housing market is competitive. Homes in the area typically sell in about 65 days and are priced at a median of $395K.

Zachery Ty Bryan, best known for his role as Brad Taylor on Home Improvement, was arrested this weekend in La Quinta, California, on felony DUI and misdemeanor contempt of court charges. He was released on $50,000 bond later that day. Bryan faces his next court date on April 23 in Indio at the Indio Larson Justice Center.

The Grief Tourist

Zachery Ty Bryan, who portrayed Tim Allen’s son Brad on Home Improvement, has a lot of legal troubles on his hands. The 42-year-old was arrested on Saturday in La Quinta, Calif., and was charged with felony DUI and misdemeanor contempt of court. He’s due in court on April 23 at the Indio Larson Justice Center, according to Riverside County jail records.

Bryan has been spotted in many TV shows and films since his breakout role on Home Improvement, including guest appearances on Code Breakers, Smallville, Veronica Mars and Burn Notice. He’s also produced several documentaries and features through his production company Lost Lane Entertainment.

The Grief Tourist centers on a man whose hobby of retracing the steps of serial killers turns into a nightmare of terror. The film is written by Adam Targum and directed by Michael Cudlitz.

When Home Improvement aired in the ’90s, it framed Tim Taylor as an average family man who enjoyed simple, “manly” pursuits like power tools. Allen’s comic tic involved grunting, either in confusion or delight at wielding tools of varying powers.

Today, Allen is still in the sitcom game, leading Last Man Standing as Mike Baxter, the marketing director of a sporting-goods chain. He loves guns and work boots and the American flag, and lives in a big house with his wife and three daughters.

Home Improvement

In the ’90s, Home Improvement was one of the most popular sitcoms on TV. It starred Tim Allen as cocky Binford Tools salesman and TV host, Tim “the Tool Man” Taylor. He hosted his own show-within-a-show called Tool Time with co-host Al Borland (Richard Karn). The series also featured a recurring character named the Tool Girl—first Pamela Anderson, then Heidi, played by Debbe Dunning.

The 204 episodes of the ABC comedy ran from 1991 to 1999 and spawned spin-offs and sequels. It also launched Allen’s successful film career.

During the show’s run, Allen feuded with Bob Vila—the OG TV handyman. The two would visit each other’s sets and face off in trivia contests, a series of unorthodox races involving souped-up lawn mowers, and more. Their rivalry was a running gag throughout the show. It’s unclear whether the pair will reunite for a reboot. Currently, Allen stars in Last Man Standing on Fox and Disney+’s The Santa Clause.

Cars

From dune buggies to fancy Cadillacs, if it has wheels, Allen can soup it up. The actor also builds hot rods and specialized wheelchairs. For example, he created a Dragonfly wheelchair for his niece that features anodized aluminum foot pads, black perforated leather upholstery and four-wheel engineering to navigate sand, snow and mud.

Allen got his start in stand-up comedy on a dare while he was at Western Michigan University, but it wasn’t until his acting career took off that he started writing jokes for the screen. He’s since starred in numerous television shows and movies.

Allen is best known for his role as Tim Taylor on Home Improvement, but he’s also starred in the ABC sitcom Last Man Standing and appeared in top-grossing movies like The Santa Clause franchise. The real-life father of two has even made a name for himself as an author. He’s also a frequent guest on talk and variety shows.

Wheelchairs

A wheelchair is a form of mobility aid that allows people who have difficulty walking to get around. They can be used by kids or adults who have spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy and other conditions. Today’s wheelchairs come in a variety of shapes and sizes and offer a range of features to ensure that the user is comfortable. Some include adjustable backrests, footplates and front caster outriggers. Others have added support for limbs and the head and neck.

Wheelchairs can be used inside or out and are designed to fit into tight spaces. They can also be modified to help with specific needs. Some wheelchairs have accessories such as multifunction bags and eating trays to help with everyday activities. Other wheelchairs are designed for outdoor use and feature wheels that can handle rough terrains like gravel, grass and paved paths. Most wheelchairs are lightweight and can be easily folded up for transport.

Women

The show’s main character, Tim Taylor (Tim Allen), is a cocky, over-ambitious, accident-prone know-it-all who loves power tools and cars. He’s a huge fan of the Detroit professional sports teams, wearing Lions, Pistons, and Red Wings gear often.

Jill, his wife, is an intelligent, practical, and mature woman who shares his love of cars and tools. She also enjoys opera, theatre, and ballet. She tries to get involved in his hobby of fixing things, but often finds herself at a loss when it comes to basic knowledge and skills. She is good at match-making, though she’s had mixed results.

She and Tim decided to end Home Improvement after eight seasons as they feared it was becoming stale. She currently stars in and executive produces the History Channel series Assembly Required. She reteamed with former co-star Richard Karn for the project, which premiered on Wednesday, June 29. The 10-episode show focuses on the evolution of cool, iconic tools.

Whether you’re updating your home or making improvements, having a comprehensive list of tasks will ensure that your project goes smoothly. Make sure to include a range of services that will cover your home’s needs, from repairing leaky faucets to installing new flooring.

Choosing the right contractor is crucial for your home improvement projects. A flexible contractor will be able to address unexpected challenges and work within your timeline and budget.

Plumbing

Plumbing services involve installing or repairing pipes, fixtures, and appliances like washing machines. A plumber can also assist in addressing structural problems like a weakening foundation or termite damage.

When hiring home improvement services, be sure to get a written estimate with an outline of the project timeline and a breakdown of costs. You should also verify the contractor’s license and insurance credentials. Also, ask for references and examples of past work. A reputable contractor should be flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen challenges while maintaining the project schedule and budget.

A skilled and reliable handyman can transform your home into a beautiful space that is a joy to live in. Moreover, they can fix issues that might otherwise be ignored.

Electrical

Home improvement services can help homeowners with a wide range of projects, from painting and floor refinishing to adding new lighting or appliances. They can also assist with electrical work, plumbing, and other aspects of home renovations and repairs. It is important to find a reputable contractor that specializes in the specific area you need assistance with. Taking the time to check references and licenses can ensure that your project is completed according to specifications and meets all safety requirements.

Home improvements can make your house more comfortable and attractive. They can also increase your property value and make it easier to sell.

Landscaping

A well-maintained landscape makes a house feel more welcoming and adds to the overall value of a property. Research suggests that effective landscaping can increase a home’s value by up to 15%.

Landscaping services include garden design, plant selection, and tree planting. They take into account a property’s needs, such as privacy or soil erosion control, and wants, like adding a vegetable garden or decorative fountain.

Landscaping work often qualifies as a tax-exempt capital improvement, and should not be charged sales tax by contractors. Bundling similar lawn care services and offering them at a discounted rate is an easy way to upsell your customers.

Renovations

Whether you are renovating your home, making minor improvements or taking on a major overhaul, the right home improvement services can help you achieve your goals and create a comfortable living space. Look for contractors with a good reputation, relevant experience, and proper licensing.

They should provide a clear estimate with a breakdown of costs and materials to be used. Additionally, make sure they are flexible to address unforeseen challenges that may arise during the project. A reputable contractor should also offer guarantees and warranties on the work they perform. This ensures quality workmanship and safety. It also protects homeowners from costly repairs or replacements in the future.

Home improvements can be daunting for DIYers. Even if you have a well-stocked tool box, some projects require licensed and insured contractors. Avoid non-local “storm chasers” by asking friends for recommendations, making a thorough list of work to be performed and checking that the contractor is licensed and insured.

Working with local service providers adds value to your home and nurtures innovation within the community. Read on to learn more about how to find and win local home improvement leads.

Trimwork & Crown Molding

Crown molding is an ornate type of decorative trim installed atop interior walls and often used above doors, windows, and pilasters. It can be comprised of a single element or a build-up of multiple components into a more elaborate look.

This style of trim work can add a touch of drama and help draw the eye upward, visually opening up a room’s ceiling height. It can also make a home feel more luxurious and elegant.

This trimwork can be made from plaster, foam, or wood. Plaster and foam are less expensive and require little skill to install; however, they don’t provide as much support or detail as traditional wood trim. Wood crown typically requires compound cuts at corners and is subject to shifting house movement, making it more difficult to maintain a tight fit over time. These factors all influence installation cost. Crown molding can be finished with a coat of paint or stained, depending on the desired look.

Flooring

Flooring is a key component of any home improvement project. Local home improvement stores specialize in floor materials and can provide homeowners with helpful tips and advice for DIY installation, as well as a wealth of options to choose from.

Local flooring specialists are in-tune to the unique needs and preferences of their communities, whereas big box home improvement stores often sell generic or off-brand flooring products that focus on national trends.

Working with a local business can also help give your community an economic boost. By choosing to hire contractors and purchase materials from businesses that are deeply rooted in their communities, area residents can help ensure a high level of trust and a smoother renovation process. They can also help ensure that contractors comply with local licensing requirements and warranty terms. This means that you’re more likely to be protected in the event of a dispute. Also, local businesses may be able to offer more flexible payment terms than big-box retailers.

Kitchens & Bathrooms

Home improvement projects are a great way to transform living spaces and make your home reflect your personal style. But, beyond aesthetic enhancements, choosing local services for your home renovations is a way to support the community’s economic resilience and environmental sustainability.

When homeowners choose to work with local contractors, they gain a better understanding of the conditions that may affect the project’s outcome. They can also be sure to work with a business that is accredited and listed in a trade association, providing peace of mind and assurance that the company has a high standard of customer service.

Homeowners are encouraged to ask friends and neighbors for referrals or search for online reviews of local businesses. In addition to checking out a business’s website, they can look into their licensing status and check references before hiring a contractor. Incentivizing past customers to refer their business can be an effective strategy for many pros. This can be done through discounts, email reminders or direct marketing tactics.

Outdoor Spaces

As summer temperatures heat up, homeowners will be spending more time outdoors. A well-designed outdoor space makes a great place to entertain guests, enjoy a meal or simply relax. A new outdoor space can also increase your property’s value.

Add a water feature, such as a waterfall, soothing pond or stylish fountain, to create a tranquil and serene ambiance in your garden. The sound of flowing water drowns out unwanted noise, and can help to lower stress levels. Alternatively, install a fire pit area to set the mood for cozy and intimate evenings.

To ensure your new outdoor space is comfortable and enjoyable, opt for high-quality furniture that can withstand the elements. Choose weather-resistant materials, such as teak or wrought iron, for durability and easy maintenance. To make your furniture feel more like a part of your home, add cushions and throw pillows that match the color and style of your outdoor décor.

If you’ve ever watched a home renovation show, you know that upgrading your house can add value and functionality. However, it’s important to know which upgrades are worth the investment and which should be saved for later.

These cool house upgrades are both functional and stylish—and they’ll increase your resale value, too.

1. Install a Fireplace

Adding a fireplace can be a wonderful addition to your home and some types can even lower your energy costs. But before you call a contractor, be sure to check local regulations and insurance requirements.

A fireplace is a major renovation that will require a building permit. Make sure to call your city or county to find out more about the process and to schedule any necessary inspections.

When it comes to framing the opening, be sure to follow the specific sizing requirements that are outlined in the fireplace’s owner’s manual. You will likely need to beef up the joists in the area if you’re planning on hanging a large TV or something heavy above the fireplace. You’ll also need to consider the thickness of your finishing materials, such as drywall or stone veneers.

2. Upgrade Your Doors

Whether you’re looking for doors that have intricate carvings and designs or something more modern, high-quality doors can add an impressive aesthetic to your home and make it feel more luxurious. New doors can also reduce outside noise and improve insulation, helping to save money on energy costs. Plus, they can increase your home’s value by making it more appealing to potential buyers down the road if you decide to sell. Upgrading your door will be money well spent for both now and in the future.

Contact your custom home builder for more information on how to upgrade your doors.