making your house a home

• Help! The Air Conditioner Is Iced Over!

  24 February 2016

  When you step outside in the summer to find that your air conditioner's condenser unit has developed a thick layer of ice on top, it's normal to be a bit concerned. An iced-over air conditioner does not operate efficiently. Some models even stop cooling completely when they freeze up. Thus, it is important for you to take steps to thaw out the unit and also to prevent the condenser from freezing again.

• 3 Things To Know About Furnace Ratings When You Decide To Replace Your Old System

  19 February 2016

  There are several key factors you must consider when purchasing a new furnace to replace your existing one, but one of the most important factors is the efficiency of the furnace you select. Furnaces are labeled with an efficiency rating, and this allows you to easily compare the options you can choose from when making your selection. While you will pay more for a furnace that has a higher efficiency rating, you can reap back some of that cost in savings.

• Tips for Spotting Foundation Trouble

  4 February 2016

  One concern that many new homeowners underestimate is the condition of the foundation. Your foundation walls are a vital part of your home's structural stability, because they are the core of the support structure. You'll want to monitor the condition of your foundation regularly so that you can spot trouble signs early, otherwise you'll run the risk of cracks and other damage spreading and weakening both the foundation and the home's structure.

• Planning A Long Distance Move? Make The Event Less Stressful On Your Teen

  1 February 2016

  Planning for a major long distance move can produce fear and anxiety for teens as they face social insecurities, process intense emotions, and make their way through an overwhelming adjustment period while getting settled into a new neighborhood and home. But these issues don't have to ruin the overall moving experience, which is sure to be just as exciting as it is scary. In addition to hiring professional movers to take some weight off the shoulders of your entire family, you can lessen the stress on your teen during and after your big move:

• 7 Easy Sewing Projects Perfect For Beginners

  28 January 2016

  If you've been longing to learn how to sew but are afraid it might be too complicated and frustrating, you'll be glad to know that there are many projects designed to help beginners learn the skills they need to go on to more complex creations. Following are seven projects that are easy for those who are new to the mysteries of sewing to master. Reversible Scarves Making reversible scarves is as easy as selecting complementary cotton fabrics, cutting them out in the desired size and shape, and sewing the two sides together.