Today, technology plays an important—if not vital—role in everyday life. Technology not only makes everyday life easier, it makes it possible. Enormous strides in technological advances are made daily, which can make preparing a new home or remodel for great technology a challenge. The…
OK people, listen up. Full disclosure: the “House Mechanic” department of HOME magazine is dedicated to the hardworking parts of our homes that are, how shall we say, not so glamorous. In defense of our beloved department, this is the…
Before we buy our groceries, we know it’s a good idea to read nutrition labels. They tell us what ingredients are included to help us decide what type of fuel we want to put in our bodies to keep us…
With the devastation of tornadoes, hurricanes and floods sweeping through the United States the past few years, we are all reminded of the need to be prepared for disasters. October is Disaster Preparedness Month, so there is no better time to…
Your home’s windows let in light and offer beautiful views. But the sunlight they invite in can also cause “hot spots” and severe fading of valuable furnishings. And during storms, or in the unfortunate event of a break-in, windows are the most…
Ah yes, we all enjoy the first signs of spring. Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, but the weather can sometimes be very unpredictable. Ideal Spring weather is usually mild and pleasant. Some days are cool and downright cold. Other…
Without a doubt, the unsung hero of household appliances is the water heater. It hums along in obscurity, usually in a corner of the basement or tucked away behind folding doors. The water heater is the source of a relaxing…
For many in Central Virginia, fall is a favorite time of year, that wonderful period between the heat of summer and the cold of winter. Though we enjoy many outdoor activities during this period, homeowners should be mindful of the…
By definition, a roof is simply the top covering of a structure. But to a home, the roof serves as a defender against all outside elements—water, ice, wind, debris, and anything else that makes its way onto the vast surface…
Enjoying your backyard to its fullest often involves adding amenities like built-in barbecues, fireplaces, ponds, expanded patios or elegant walkways. To achieve such designs, homeowners often have to cut into or fill in the existing soil to create a suitable…
