If you’re like most people, you probably don't give much thought to the age of your appliances—until something breaks, that is. Homeowners do occasionally replace a major home appliance before the end of its effective lifespan—when they're remodeling, for instance, or if they just want to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. But most homeowners buy a new appliance when they absolutely have to, which is why knowing how much mileage you can reasonably expect to get out of your appliances can help you plan and budget for the expense. In general, most major appliances will last about 10 to 15 years, although proper use, consistent cleaning, and regular maintenance can extend that lifespan. If you're wondering how much time your appliances may have left, check out these guidelines on how long you can expect your appliances to last.
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If your budget is tight but your out-of-date kitchen needs help (and quick!), take a cue from these inspiring before-and-afters. With redos to fit almost any budget, these ingenious blogger renovations prove that a little paint, updated cabinet doors, and a DIY tile job can go a long way toward getting your kitchen cooking again.
Crown molding brings elegance to nearly any space. Whether you choose to use it around windows and doorways or to line the top of the kitchen cabinets, crown molding adds a classic finishing touch that pulls together a room's design elements. Installing crown molding is an accessible DIY project, and there are plenty of places in your home to put it. So, check out our favorite crown molding ideas, and then head on over to the lumber aisle.
With so many fence styles available today, it can be hard for homeowners to choose the one that best fits their property and needs. Fences generally fall into three categories: privacy, functional, and decorative. Whether used to define property boundaries, keep pets and children safe, or keep out unwelcome visitors (two- and four-legged), a fence can dramatically enhance your home’s curb appeal. Made of myriad materials, including wood, metal, vinyl, stone, and brick—you can be sure there is a fence style that’s right for you. And, since installing a fence is one of the most common do-it-yourself projects, you’ll find a wide variety of kits and premade panels to make assembly a snap. Here is a look at some of the most common styles of fences used today.
When it comes to kitchen backsplashes, most people assume you have to spend a lot of money to get amazing results. But these low-cost DIY projects are a testament that with a little creativity and DIY enthusiasm, you can craft a backsplash that adds charm and personality to any space—without a steep price tag.
Stucco isn't delicate. Whether applied as exterior siding or as a finish for interior walls, the age-old material requires little in the way of ongoing maintenance. Occasional cleaning or patching may be necessary, but with the right combination of products and tools, any homeowner can get the job done. Here's how.
