Buying a newly built home often feels reassuring because everything looks fresh and modern. Still, informed buyers know to inspect systems hidden behind walls as carefully as they check flooring and finishes. Evaluating how the builder handled new construction plumbing services reveals a lot about installation quality, water efficiency, and long-term reliability. Understanding the plumbing … Read more

Most homeowners rely on forced-air systems for heating and cooling, but radiant heating is gaining popularity for its more even warmth, greater energy efficiency, and potential long-term savings on utility bills. Radiant systems are commonly installed in floors, though they can also be integrated into walls or ceilings. The U.S. Department of Energy describes radiant … Read more

CES expanded its Connected Home area this year, and Kenmore and GE stood out by unveiling several new home technologies. For a company as large as GE, this marked a notable first appearance at CES and introduced three important smart home advancements: the Nucleus energy manager with Brillion technology, the GE WattStation electric vehicle charging … Read more

Truck bed covers significantly increase the utility of pickup trucks. They secure belongings, protect tools and gear from weather, and help organize cargo. After buying a 2021 Ram 2500, one of the first upgrades I chose was a bed cover. RetraxPRO XR Truck Bed Cover With many options on the market, I ultimately chose the … Read more

With so many electric vehicles available today, the Polestar 2 deserves a spot on your shortlist. I spent several days driving the Polestar 2 around Los Angeles—running errands, dropping the kids at school, and heading down to El Porto for a surf. I don’t own an EV yet, but this car made it clear why … Read more

Summer brings heat—and with it, an increased chance of severe storms and power outages. When temperatures soar, being prepared for loss of electricity can make the difference between a stressful scramble and a manageable inconvenience. In July 2006, we experienced nearly a week without power at This D*mn House amid 100-degree heat after a string … Read more

We’re launching our summer paint series with a focused look at zero VOC paint. For indoor applications, zero VOC paint is our preferred option. Choosing a paint that emits no volatile organic compounds is one of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality right at the start of a project. We are pleased … Read more

Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting: What’s the Difference? Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are often used interchangeably, but each term refers to a distinct process. While they overlap in purpose—improving cleanliness and reducing the risk of illness—they differ in approach, intensity, and appropriate use. Understanding those differences helps you choose the right method for homes, schools, offices, … Read more

Fourteen years ago we lived in Seattle and fell in love with the city. It was our first year of marriage and we chose Seattle for a fresh start — a place far removed from the desert climate of the Southwest where we grew up. Compared with New York City or San Francisco, Seattle was … Read more

Ford has announced the return of the Ranger midsize truck to the U.S. market. Discontinued seven years ago, the Ranger is back with updated features and a renewed focus on appealing to a broad range of buyers. I owned a 1991 Ford Ranger in college, and it started my long-running affection for Ford trucks. It … Read more