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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AUGUST 7, 2014 | THURSDAY
How to Plunge a Toilet

People go weeks, months, and even years without giving the toilet a second thought. The instant it clogs, however, the toilet becomes the center of attention. While most homeowners are wi...

JULY 17, 2014 | THURSDAY
5 Things to Consider When Choosing a New Roof

Every homeowner knows that a sound roof is an absolute must to protect your investment. That's why routine roof maintenance—from cleaning out gutters to checking for missing shingles and ...

JULY 8, 2014 | TUESDAY
The Economical, Environmental, and Emotional Benefits of Tubular Skylights

There’s no substitute for natural light. In comparison with the artificial variety, it's better for your health, the environment, and your electric bill. So figuring out how to get more d...

JUNE 25, 2014 | WEDNESDAY
Planning Guide: Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Nothing epitomizes leisure more than a swimming pool. For some it is a symbol of affluence, but for others a pool is simply a fun way to get exercise, relax, cool off, and gather with fri...

JUNE 13, 2014 | FRIDAY
Regain Your Footing: Top Tips for Common Wood Floor Repairs

This article has been brought to you by Lumber Liquidators. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Few things can add as much warmth, character, and charm to a room as hardwood...

JUNE 5, 2014 | THURSDAY
How To: Choose the Right Materials for Your Outdoor Project

Thinking of building a fence? Looking to add a deck? Both projects will be subjected to the whims of Mother Nature, so choosing the right materials can mean the difference between a deck ...

MAY 23, 2014 | FRIDAY
Everything You Need to Know About Engineered Wood Floors

Engineered flooring might sound like something that's made in a lab from plastics and other chemicals but, in fact, it consists of real wood. What sets engineered flooring apart from othe...

APRIL 25, 2014 | FRIDAY
Vinyl Siding vs. Fiber Cement: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Choosing the cladding material for the exterior of your home involves the careful evaluation of several factors. Of course, there’s the look. Cedar shake shingles will create a different ...

APRIL 14, 2014 | MONDAY
13 Unexpected Ways to Use Contact Paper Around the House

Contact paper has long been the stuff of mothers' old cabinet drawers, but make no mistake: the old favorite has rolled its way into the 21st century with a wide and varied array of moder...

APRIL 14, 2014 | MONDAY
Pro Tips: Basement Waterproofing

A clean, dry basement—there, doesn’t that sound nice? Yet the fact is, many of us live with basements that are damp, which makes them unpleasant to visit and inhospitable for our belongin...