Striking doors, bold planters brighten boring entryways
by Mary McKenna Curb appeal. It’s often there in plain view when it comes to someone else’s home – both picturesque and inviting – and yet completely elusive when trying to add that signature charm to your own. If you’re looking to spruce up a dull porch or entryway and enhance the look of your […]
Smart Home 101: Automated tech for the not-so-savvy
by Martin McConnell Smart home technology can be genuinely life-changing when it comes to ease of use. However, those who are out of the loop might get intimidated by all the technological hoops to jump through. Tony Fabrick of Xtend Technologies in Broadview Heights explained that while home automation can seem daunting, it can be […]
Case for open kitchen shelves is far from closed, designer says
by Judy Stringer Thumbing through home décor magazines or scrolling on sites like Pinterest, it’s easy to fall in love with open shelving in many of those beautifully appointed kitchens. Open shelves are simple, aesthetically pleasing and allow homeowners to inject a fresh, modern vibe into a prized living space. They can also create the […]
Some small home projects can bring big bucks
by Judy Stringer New garage doors and updated siding are among the remodeling projects that will net Cleveland-area homeowners the most return on their investment, according to Zonda Media’s 2022 Cost vs. Value Report (costvsvalue.com). The report finds replacing a garage door will cost a local homeowner $3,944 on average and increase the home’s value by […]
Organic borders can create privacy, add texture to landscapes
by Dan Holland Organic borders, such as trees, shrubs and grasses, are a visually appealing – and often less expensive – way to create a natural fencing between properties or even within a yard. Local landscape professionals said what plantings work best depends on the yard and the homeowner’s ultimate objective. For areas with a […]
Homeowners encouraged to fell banned, invasive pear trees
by Melissa Martin In a matter of days, the tender white blossoms of the Callery pear tree will be in full bloom throughout Northeast Ohio. Even those who don’t know the trees by name have undoubtedly witnessed their splendor, as they line many neighborhood streets in almost every suburb in the greater Cleveland area. The […]
Native plants are low maintenance, offer environmental benefits
by Laura Bednar In a climate like Northeast Ohio, it can be difficult for plants to grow and adapt to changing weather patterns and less than desirable soil types. Native plants have occurred naturally in a particular region without human introduction and have evolved to thrive in the Midwest weather. “Natives were meant to grow […]
Pro says to prune in early spring to get the perfect cut
by Stefanie Watson As the days get longer and nature awakens, homeowners often find their landscape in dire need of attention but don’t know where to start. Pruning can be a great place to begin yard maintenance. It is also, however, where mistakes are commonplace, according to Tom Morel, president and founder of North Royalton-based […]
Wise maintenance can protect homeowners from water disasters
Although we tend to think of extreme weather events like hurricanes or torrential rains when it comes to property damage from water, the reality is ordinary household plumbing systems, appliance failures and maintenance neglect can be just as destructive. According to the New York City-based Insurance Information Institute, about one in 60 insured homes has […]