You’ve likely come across the term “universal design,” especially in conversations about making homes safe and comfortable for people as they age. However, universal design isn’t limited to older adults; it focuses on creating spaces that are accessible, functional, and easy to use for people of all ages and abilities. That broad goal influences every … Read more

Toyota has timed the arrival of the 2020 Highlander well. The mid-size SUV segment is the fastest-growing category, and demand for three-row models remains strong. With roughly two dozen mid-size SUVs on the market, buyers have plenty of choices—and Toyota’s redesigned Highlander aims to keep its lead in the third-row space. Within the mid-size segment … Read more

A recent survey conducted by American Express, reported by MarketWatch of The Wall Street Journal digital network, shows that most homeowners plan to continue investing in home improvements for the rest of the year. The results indicate that 62 percent of homeowners expect to spend an average of $6,200 on various projects. Younger professionals and … Read more

Warmer weather often brings an increased risk of severe storms, and with hail, high winds, tornadoes, and heavy rain comes another hazard: storm repair scams. After a recent round of severe weather in the Kansas City area, Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe warned residents to be vigilant and provided advice for avoiding fraudulent repair … Read more

To help homeowners extend the life of their air conditioning system, Bill Cunningham, a home cooling and energy efficiency specialist at Lennox, offers practical tips to keep your system running reliably and efficiently through the summer months. Three Signs You May Need to Replace Your Air Conditioner 1. The system runs constantly and your energy … Read more

Water heaters rarely fail without warning. Sounds like gravel tumbling in a dryer, a gradual loss of hot water pressure, or rust-tinged water at the tap are early indicators that something inside the tank needs attention. Many homeowners hope these issues will resolve themselves, but they rarely do. Ignoring a strange noise for two weeks, … Read more

Have you ever cleaned your home from top to bottom but still felt something was missing? Floors gleam and surfaces are dust-free, yet the space doesn’t feel as bright or refreshed as it should. Often, the culprit is a simple, overlooked element: the windows. Natural light has a powerful effect on how a home looks … Read more

Home security matters, so we decided to add another layer of protection to our front door in addition to the deadbolt. We replaced an old chain lock with a swing bar lock from National Hardware, and the upgrade has been well worth it. Below is a straightforward guide to what we did and why this … Read more

The cooler temperatures of fall make it an excellent season to stain your deck. While the long, sunny days of summer offer obvious motivation, the milder weather of autumn actually makes the task easier and more pleasant. Without the intense heat, stain dries more evenly and you can work comfortably for longer periods. If you … Read more