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Articles by A Décor
How To Replace a Range Hood in Your Kitchen
Replacing a kitchen range hood is a relatively straightforward DIY project that can dramatically improve both the function and look of your kitchen. Whether your current hood is loud, outdated, or not venting properly, upgrading it typically costs between $200 and $1,000 for the unit, plus $100 to $400 if you hire an electrician for installation. All in, most homeowners spend $300 to $1,400 depending on the model and complexity of the wiring.
Lawn Treatments That Are Safe for Birds - Today's Homeowner
Are there any lawn treatments that are safe for birds? I stopped having a professional lawn treatment service because it drove the birds away. -Jean Pesticides – including weed killers, fungicides, insecticides, and rodenticides – can be highly toxic to birds, both by directly poisoning them and by altering the ecosystem they depend on for survival. It’s estimated that at least 67 millions birds die in the U.S. each year due to pesticide toxicity.
How to Replace a 120-Volt Electrical Wall Outlet in 9 Quick Steps
If an electrical outlet (also known as a receptacle) is cracked or broken, the slots no longer grip the plug tightly, or the outlet doesn’t work properly, it needs to be replaced. Replacing a standard, 120-volt wall outlet is an easy DIY project that only requires a few tools and some basic knowledge of wiring. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to replace an electrical outlet in your home.
How To Get Rid of Pantry Moths and Larvae in Your Kitchen - Today's Homeowner
If you’ve spotted tiny worms in your food or noticed small moths flying around your kitchen, you likely have an Indian meal moth infestation—commonly known as pantry moths. These pests sneak into your home through packaged food and multiply quickly, contaminating dry goods like flour, cereal, rice, pet food, and even bird seed. Getting rid of pantry moths requires a thorough cleanout of your pantry, as these pests lay eggs in food packaging and dark crevices.
How to Size Attic Exhaust Vent Fans for Your Home - Today's Homeowner
I want to install attic vent fans in my roof. Is there a formula on how many you need and the size? – Lin Hi Lin, Attic exhaust vent fans can reduce your air conditioning energy costs in the summer as well as prevent condensation and ice dams from forming during the winter. While most are wired into your home electrical system, solar-powered vent fans are available that require no electrical hookup.
What Does Foundation Repair Cost? - Today's Homeowner
Foundation problems can be expensive and stressful, but ignoring them will only make things worse—and costlier. On average, homeowners spend $4,500 on foundation repairs, but costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor cracks to $30,000 or more for major structural issues. A full foundation replacement can exceed $70,000, making early repairs crucial. The type of foundation you have, the severity of the issue, and your home’s location all impact repair costs.
How to Paint Over Ceramic Tile in a Bathroom - Today's Homeowner
You can paint over ceramic tile walls in a bathroom, but you will lose some of the interesting characteristics of tile since the grout lines will be the same color as the tile. Also, you will have better luck if you avoid painting tile which receives a lot of water or wear, such as: Tile floor Tile tub or shower surround Tile vanity countertop There are two important components to painting ceramic tile—preparing the surface properly and using the right type of paint.
How to Deal with Voles (Field Mice) in Your Yard or Garden - Today's Homeowner
I’ve seen the damage that voles (field mice) can do in a yard or garden; including vanishing bulbs, gnawed bark, crippled roots, nibbled stems, and pathways in the lawn. But it wasn’t until I got a cat that I got a good look at a vole itself! Don’t worry, animal-lovers, this little guy lived to nibble another day. But after being batted around by my cat in the yard, he didn’t seem to mind catching his breath for a minute in my gloved hand.
How To Repair a Stuck Toilet Handle - Today's Homeowner
A stuck toilet handle can disrupt the normal flushing process lead to water waste, and can cause higher utility bills. Fortunately, repairing a stuck toilet handle is often a simple DIY task that doesn’t require calling a plumber. This guide will help you diagnose the issue, provide step-by-step instructions for common repairs, and offer tips to prevent future problems. Before diving into repairs, it’s important to understand how a toilet handle system works.
How To Keep Sweet Bell Peppers from Tasting Bitter - Today's Homeowner
Bell peppers are a favorite in many gardens for their crisp texture and sweet flavor. However, sometimes gardeners find their carefully tended peppers have an unexpected bitter taste. This can be frustrating, but the good news is that with a few simple adjustments, it’s possible to avoid this bitter flavor. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind bitter-tasting peppers and give practical solutions so you’ll end up with sweet, flavorful bell peppers.
How To Select the Right Tree for Your Yard - Today's Homeowner
Choosing the right tree for your yard can be fun but tricky. Trees provide a lifetime of beauty, clean air, shade, and shelter, making them invaluable additions to any landscape. With hundreds of species and varieties available, you’ll need to narrow down your choices. This guide will help you choose trees with the right characteristics for your yard and climate. Each type of tree serves a unique purpose and can significantly impact your yard’s look and functionality.
How to Grow Crabapple Trees - Today's Homeowner
There’s never a dull moment with crabapple trees. They pop out with deep magenta flower buds in the early spring, which turn white as they open to make a multicolored rainbow. In the summertime, the trees are lush and green, full of singing birds. By late summer, the tiny crabapples come out in shades of red and orange, and the leaves start showing their fall colors. Even when the leaves are gone and the last apples have fallen, the tree holds a nice shape for the winter.
How to Avoid Snakes in Your Yard and Garden - Today's Homeowner
Snakes are known for startling unsuspecting gardeners on a pleasant day. Most of them aren’t poisonous and tend to avoid contact with people give the chance. However, some behave differently than others. Follow these tips to better understand a snake’s habits and avoid getting too close to them. Generally speaking, snakes spend most of their time in damp, cool, and protected areas. This is a part of their cold-blooded nature, regulating their body temperature and helping them find food.
How Lumber Is Cut and Graded - Today's Homeowner
Have you ever wondered why a 2 x 4 piece of lumber doesn’t actually measure 2 inches by 4 inches? What does that mysterious “B&BTR” stamp mean? Understanding lumberyard lingo is helpful for any DIY enthusiast or homeowner planning a project. In this guide, we’ll demystify the terminology, explain how lumber is processed, and help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of wood.
Homeowner’s Guide to Caulk - Today's Homeowner
Caulk is a very common tool across different home improvement projects. It bridges gaps where different materials meet—whether you’re sealing around your tub, sealing your windows in the wintertime, or hiding unsightly cracks in your crown molding. Using caulk properly can help you keep water and outside air where they belong, stop mold and rot from forming where you can’t reach them, save on energy bills, improve your home’s appearance, and protect your paint job.
5 Benefits of Modular Building in Rural Areas - Today's Homeowner
Homeowners build in rural areas to gain more land and live a more laid-back lifestyle. However, this approach isn’t without its challenges. You may be miles away from the nearest supply store, and there may be a lack of skilled tradespeople due to the sparse population. With modular building using prebuilt pieces, you can save time, money, and headaches. Some buildings come all in one piece, while others arrive in smaller pieces assembled on-site.
How To Use Predator Insects to Control Garden Pests - Today's Homeowner
Garden Pests Beneficial predatory insects are nature’s pest control experts. These helpful bugs feed on common garden pests, cutting their populations and protecting your plants from damage. Sometimes, all you need to do is encourage the natural predators that already live in your yard. However, if your garden has a specific insect problem, you may want to take steps to increase the predator population.
Protecting Your Home During Extreme Cold Weather - Today's Homeowner
Extreme cold weather can wreak havoc on homes, causing frozen pipes, high heating bills, and structural damage. As temperatures plummet, take proactive steps to safeguard your property against the harsh elements. There are numerous ways to prepare for and withstand frigid conditions, from insulating pipes to sealing drafts.
Cracks in Dry Soil: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions - Today's Homeowner
Cracks in dry soil can be frustrating, especially if you prioritize maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. These fissures hurt the look of your yard and indicate health issues with the underlying soil. Whether you’re dealing with small surface cracks or deep, expansive ones, knowing the causes and solutions is pivotal for maintaining a beautiful landscape. Soil cracks are natural phenomena that occur when certain soil types lose moisture rapidly.
This Convertible Freezer/Refrigerator is Perfect for Bulk Buyers!
With grocery prices skyrocketing, it’s a great idea to buy items in bulk when you come across a good deal. However, you can only buy so much until you run out of cold storage space. That’s why having an extra convertible freezer/refrigerator is a great investment. Think you have enough space in the fridge or freezer on a daily basis? All it takes is a party or family gathering to realize you need more of one or the other.
When to Close the Pressure Relief Valve While Draining a Hot Water Tank
Maintaining a hot water heater is a necessary part of owning a home, and you need to know when to close the pressure relief valve during the draining process. This often-overlooked step prevents potential issues and maximizes the life of your water heater. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply looking to better understand your home’s plumbing, this guide will walk you through draining a hot water tank and managing its pressure relief valve.
How To Repair a Sinking Concrete Driveway or Sidewalk - Today's Homeowner
A sinking concrete driveway or sidewalk is more than just an eyesore—it’s a potential safety hazard and a sign of underlying problems. Homeowners might notice this problem when water starts pooling in certain areas or when there’s a noticeable dip in the surface. While fixing it may seem daunting, you have several options for tackling the problem.
How To Paint, Stain, and Repair a Mailbox - Today's Homeowner
A mailbox is often the first thing visitors notice when approaching a home. An old, worn, or leaning mailbox post can detract from a home’s curb appeal and even make mail delivery more difficult. In this article, we explain how to fix leaning mailboxes and give them a fresh coat of paint so they’re looking good as new. Over time, mailboxes on posts tend to lean due to soil conditions, weather, rotting wood, or physical damage.
How To Grow Camellias - Today's Homeowner
Camellias are a stunning addition to any garden, with vibrant blooms and lush evergreen foliage that can brighten up even the dreariest winter day. They’re perfect for foundation plantings, borders, or as eye-catching specimen plants. With their slow growth and relatively low maintenance needs, camellias are an easy way to add year-round beauty to your landscape.
10 Ways to Make Your Home Clean and Efficient This Spring - Today's Homeowner
Spring is here, and with warmer weather comes a different set of home chores you need to take on to keep your home in tip-top shape. The same way you cycle out your winter wardrobe for your spring attire, you need to cycle out the cold-weather chores for spring tasks. We partnered with our friends at The Home Depot to compile a spring list of tasks to give your home some TLC. It’s packed with manageable tasks to help your home run effectively and efficiently.
8 Tips for Building a Backyard Waterfall - Today's Homeowner
Many homeowners dream of creating an outdoor paradise, and building a backyard waterfall is one of the most stunning ways to do that. Not only do waterfalls provide a soothing ambiance with their peaceful trickling, but they also create necessary aeration to keep ecosystem ponds working as they should. Whether opting for a traditional pond and waterfall combo or a stand-alone pondless waterfall, this water feature can turn an ordinary backyard into a serene retreat.
Winterizing Roses Using the “Minnesota Tip” - Today's Homeowner
Roses are the crown jewels of many gardens, but harsh winter conditions can threaten their survival. If you live in an extremely cold climate, trying to protect these beloved plants can feel like a yearly challenge. Enter the Minnesota Tip method, a unique technique developed in the 1950s by Minnesotan gardener Jerry Olson and Master Grower Albert Nelson. It can protect roses not just from extreme cold, but from warm spells, breakage from ice and wind, and withering from dry air.
How To Turn Wood Chips into Mulch for Your Yard - Today's Homeowner
Wood chip mulch is an easy way to recycle yard waste while protecting plants and trees and improving your landscaping. Basically, it consists of turning things like branches, prunings, and scraps into mulch with a wood chipper. Using this kind of natural, cost-effective mulch can help with everything from moisture retention to weed suppression. In this guide, I’ll walk you through creating and using wood chip mulch, from choosing the right equipment to applying it in your garden.
How to Align Blocks in a Curved Retaining Wall - Today's Homeowner
Adding some curved lines can make a strong stone retaining wall look more appealing. However, if you’re using stackable blocks for the project, you might find the joints along the curves off by several inches. Keep reading to learn how to align each block properly along a curve in your new retaining wall. Curved retaining walls present unique challenges compared to their straight counterparts, due to the nature of the blocks.
How to Grow, Harvest, and Use Basil at Home - Today's Homeowner
Basil is a versatile and aromatic favorite that’s great for first-time plant parents and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you’re planning your herb garden, you have a few basil plants, or you already have an abundance threatening to go to seed, knowing how to properly harvest and use this fragrant herb can both punch up your weeknight cooking and help you make the most of your garden’s bounty.
How To Check a Water Meter Flow Indicator for Leaks - Today's Homeowner
If you notice your water bill rising, that’s definitely a cause for concern. Unless you’ve made any abrupt changes in your schedule or habits, your water bills should be relatively consistent from month to month. While it’s possible that your increase in water usage could be due to a faulty meter, it’s far more likely that there’s a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Luckily, there’s an easy way to find leaks in your home’s plumbing using your water meter flow indicator.
How to Repair Mortar in a Brick Wall or Chimney - Today's Homeowner
Brick walls and chimneys are durable and built to last thanks to strong mortar joints. As soon as you discover cracked mortar, you should repair and seal it to stop water from entering and causing further damage. Otherwise, a small problem today could become a major headache—and expense—in the future. Here’s how to do the job. How Mortar Deteriorates Mortar joints are designed to take most of the damage to a brick wall, cracking and deteriorating before the bricks themselves will.
Homemade Nontoxic Furniture Cleaners - Today's Homeowner
Freshly polished wood furniture really makes a home sparkle. However, many commercial polishes are full of artificial fragrances, residues, chemicals, and propellants that aren’t great to have floating around in the air or building up on surfaces. The good news is you really don’t need much to clean and polish your wood furniture—less is more. Here are a few DIY recipes and tips to get you started.
How to Deal with Broken Branches on a Bradford Pear Tree - Today's Homeowner
A large limb has ripped off my Bradford pear tree, leaving a huge gash in the trunk. What should I do? -Carmen Bradford pear trees are common in many neighborhoods, known for their beautiful spring blossoms and rapid growth. However, these trees are notorious for their weak branch structure, which often leads to broken limbs and split trunks. When faced with damaged branches on a Bradford pear, you need to know how to properly assess and address the situation.
How to Install Radiant Floor Heating on an Existing Concrete Slab - Today's Homeowner
Radiant floor heating is an excellent way to add comfort and warmth to your home, especially if you live somewhere with cold winters. It’s possible to add this luxurious feature to an existing concrete slab foundation without tearing up the concrete. This guide will walk through installing radiant floor heating on an existing concrete slab, helping you make an informed decision about this home improvement project.
Help for Hemlocks: Woolly Adelgid Treatment - Today's Homeowner
Hemlock trees add beauty and shade to yards and parks, but they face a serious threat from a tiny insect known as the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). This aphid-like pest is wreaking havoc on hemlock populations from Maine to Georgia, endangering both native forests and landscape trees. If you have hemlocks on your property, you should know how to remove and prevent HWA to keep your trees healthy and vibrant Early detection and treatment are key to giving infested trees the best chance of recovery.
How To Repair Small Holes in Drywall - Today's Homeowner
Things like picture hangers, nails, and other wall-hanging hardware can often leave behind unsightly holes in drywall. These little imperfections can be an eyesore, especially when preparing to paint or redecorate a room. Fortunately, repairing small holes in drywall is a simple DIY task that most homeowners can tackle with a few basic tools and materials.
How to Make a Draft Dodger for Doors and Windows - Today's Homeowner
As the colder months approach, you might find yourself battling unwanted drafts sneaking in under doors and through windowsills. These chilly intruders can significantly impact heating bills and comfort levels. Fortunately, there’s a simple, cost-effective solution: the draft dodger. This easy DIY project not only helps seal off drafts but can also add a touch of personality to a home’s decor.
Problems with Drywall Nailhead Pops and Rust Stains on Walls and Ceilings - Today's Homeowner
Homeowners often face various issues with their drywall, and two common problems are nailhead pops and rust stains on walls and ceilings. These unsightly blemishes can be frustrating, especially in older homes. Knowing the causes of these issues and how to address them can improve the appearance and integrity of interior walls and ceilings. This article will explore the reasons behind nailhead pops and rust stains, provide solutions for fixing them, and offer tips on preventing future occurrences.
How to Grow Knock Out Roses - Today's Homeowner
Knock Out® roses have revolutionized rose gardening, offering a low-maintenance alternative to traditional varieties. These hardy shrubs bloom from spring to fall, resist common rose diseases, and thrive in various climates. If you’re looking for a beautiful, fuss-free addition to your landscape, Knock Out roses are an excellent choice. We’ll explain everything you need to know to successfully grow and care for these popular roses, from planting to year-round maintenance.
Front Porch Railing: Remove It or Repair It?
Front porch railing — some homeowners love it, some hate it, and some absolutely need it. This railing can make your front porch feel cozy or claustrophobic. Whether or not you need it is up to you and your style. A front porch railing has four basic components: posts, a top rail, a bottom (base) rail and balusters. The posts are the thickest vertical planks of wood that hold your horizontal top and bottom rails. The balusters are the vertical slats of wood between the top and bottom rails.
How To Grow Hibiscus - Today's Homeowner
Hibiscus plants are beautiful and eye-catching with their bright, colorful blooms and attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing hibiscus can be a rewarding experience, creating both a wonderful habitat for native wildlife and adding gorgeous color to your garden. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for different types of hibiscus plants.
How to Repair a Leaking Buried Pipe - Today's Homeowner
Discovering a leaking buried pipe can be a nightmare. It’s not just about the water waste — it’s the potential damage to property and the looming repair costs that can keep you up at night. Thankfully, you can repair most leaking buried pipes yourself. This guide will walk you through the process of repairing a leaking buried pipe, from identifying the problem to implementing both DIY and professional solutions.
Guide to Different Tree Shapes for Your Yard - Today's Homeowner
When planning a landscape, homeowners often overlook the importance of tree shapes in creating a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor space. The right tree shape can dramatically enhance your yard’s aesthetic and provide functional benefits like shade or privacy. Appealing tree shapes can also complement existing architectural features on your property. In this guide, we explore various tree shapes and explain how to choose the perfect tree shape for any yard.
How To Grow Broccoli in Your Vegetable Garden - Today's Homeowner
Broccoli is a healthy and delicious veggie that’s great for any home garden. It loves cooler weather, so it’s ideal for planting in early spring or fall. Growing your own broccoli means you get to enjoy fresh, crunchy florets right from your backyard, plus it’s pretty satisfying to see your garden thrive. I’ll show you all you need to know about planting, growing, and picking broccoli so you can have a tasty and nutrient-packed harvest.
How to Grow Bromeliad Houseplants - Today's Homeowner
Bromeliads are a diverse and fascinating group of plants that can add a splash of exotic color and greenery to any room. While they have a reputation for being finicky, many bromeliad varieties are surprisingly easy to grow as houseplants. These low-maintenance beauties are adaptable to temperature and humidity shifts, and their blooms can last for months. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner looking to expand your indoor garden, bromeliads are a great plant to try.
How To Dress Up Your Houseplants with Mulch - Today's Homeowner
Houseplants can transform a living space, adding life and greenery to any room. While most homeowners focus on selecting the right plants and pots, many overlook the finishing touch that can elevate their indoor garden: mulch. Mulching houseplants isn’t just for outdoor plants. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the appearance and health of indoor plants, too.
Best Annual and Perennial Herbs for Your Garden - Today's Homeowner
Herbs are a culinary and garden favorite for many plant parents. They’re beautiful, fragrant, easy to grow, and practical plants to have in your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, knowing the different types of herbs and their growth habits will help you build a better herb garden. This guide will explore the differences between annual and perennial herbs, so you know which herbs to plant and when, as well as how to care for them.
How to Hang Anything on Anything - Today's Homeowner
Hanging pictures, shelves, and other items on walls can seem like a daunting task for many homeowners. With so many types of wall anchors and fasteners available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when walking down the hardware aisle. But fear not. This guide will help you navigate the world of wall anchors and picture hangers and securely attach items to any wall surface in your home. Before choosing a wall anchor or fastener, you need to figure out what type of wall material you have.
Homeowner’s Guide to Glue - Today's Homeowner
The glue aisle at your local home improvement store can feel like an overwhelming place. Shelves are chock-full of glue bottles in every shape, size, and color. They all serve the same fundamental purpose of sticking things together, but what makes the big jug of wood glue different from the little tube of construction adhesive? It’s not always easy to match the glue with the job. However, we’ll try to demystify the different types of glues below to make your next shopping trip easier.
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