Michael Franco

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A creative director with Reader's Digest for ten years, also formerly serving as site editor for a division of About.com, Michael Franco has spent over a decade covering science, technology, hospitality and home improvement. His writing credits include Angie's List, Good Housekeeping, Consumer Reports, and National Geographic. A graduate of Ithaca College and Manhattanville College, with a BA in English and an MA in Creative Writing, Mr. Franco once owned and operated a bed and breakfast in Amish country. Today, he lives and works in Asheville, NC. Michael Franco on LinkedIn | Google +

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APRIL 20, 2015 | MONDAY
Get Instant Alerts Whenever Leaks Threaten Your Home

With the exception of fire, water poses the greatest threat to our homes, whether it's a slow-and-steady leak or a sudden flood. In fact, it's estimated that every year, moisture plays a ...

MARCH 24, 2015 | TUESDAY
7 Reasons Homeowners Switch to Radiant Heating

Radiant heat has been around, in one form or another, for thousands of years. In recent years, however, it has improved to the point of becoming a viable alternative to the more tradition...

MARCH 20, 2015 | FRIDAY
Scout: A Next-Generation Home Security System

Joining the ranks of smart-home gadgets and gizmos is Scout, a completely wireless, internet-connected home security system. Scout departs from tradition in several important ways, offeri...

MARCH 12, 2015 | THURSDAY
Built-In USB Ports Redefine the Wall Socket

In 2015, people are as likely to charge a digital device as they are to plug in a table lamp or a hair dryer. But while lighting and appliances plug right into the wall, today's tablets a...

MARCH 10, 2015 | TUESDAY
7 Things Every Great Garage Needs

Garages: indispensable for keeping your car out of the elements, doing messy projects without cleaning up after them, and for storing items out of sight and mind. But if you’re dissatisfi...

FEBRUARY 25, 2015 | WEDNESDAY
Be Ready for Anything with 10 Mighty Pocket Tools

When it's time to tackle a few home improvement projects, it's hard to beat having a nicely stocked toolbox by your side. But small fixes around the house shouldn't require you to haul ar...

FEBRUARY 19, 2015 | THURSDAY
Thousands of Years in the Making, Radiant Heating Arrives

While the origins of radiant floor heating stretch way back into the mists of history, the technology has come of age only in recent years. Today, it works as well as any other traditiona...

FEBRUARY 12, 2015 | THURSDAY
8 Bright Ideas to Boost Natural Light

Bringing natural light into your home is both economical and enjoyable. Here are seven ways to let the sun shine in throughout your house.

FEBRUARY 6, 2015 | FRIDAY
7 Life-Changing New Home Technologies for 2015

With each passing year, our houses are getting smarter and smarter. It's no fantasy; appliances that mix drinks or cook dinner at your command—a simple touch on your phone app could be th...

FEBRUARY 2, 2015 | MONDAY
What Type of Door Is Best for Your Entryway?

You put a great deal of trust in your front door, counting on it to form a good first impression of your home for any visitor or passerby. For that reason alone, the front door is more im...