If you’re shopping for larger purchases, timing can make a big difference. There are seasonal windows when items such as cars, electronics and household appliances often sell for less. In the early months of the year, retailers typically discount outdoor goods—patio furniture, grills and related items—so buying then can result in notable savings. Even if … Read more

For many people, outdoor dining is as much about the atmosphere as the meal: fresh air, warm evenings, and the ritual of cooking over an open flame. The crackle of wood, smoky aromas and glowing embers produce flavors that are difficult to replicate indoors. But to achieve a truly authentic fire-cooked experience, you need more … Read more

As a home improvement blogger, I’ve met many construction professionals, so when I wanted to understand the differences between types of circular saws—specifically worm drive and sidewinder—I asked my friend Robert Robillard. Robert is a carpenter who also writes about tools and craft at A Concord Carpenter. Growing up and working on the West Coast, … Read more

Pellet smokers are very popular, but if you want a grill that truly does it all, consider the Louisiana Grills Kamado LG K24. Fueled by hardwood lump charcoal, the Louisiana Grills Ceramic series offers five cooking methods in one unit: smoke, bake, sear, roast, and grill. It’s a versatile solution for nearly any outdoor cooking … Read more

Home automation is rapidly gaining momentum, and another major tech company has stepped into the field: the Amazon Echo. The Echo represents a clear glimpse of the smart home future from a large industry player. Where once whole-house voice control cost thousands, the Echo offers similar capabilities for around $180. The device responds to a … Read more

Early fall is the ideal time to inspect your home and prepare it for the coming winter. Below is a practical checklist of common problem areas and clear steps to address them. Get your mind in the gutters. Your roof’s drainage system diverts thousands of gallons of water away from your house and foundation every … Read more

Hardwood flooring is one of the few interior renovation choices a DIY homeowner can make that truly endures. When selected and installed correctly, hardwood floors can last 30 to 50 years in a typical home and can be refinished multiple times; by contrast, a poorly chosen or improperly installed floor may show visible wear within … Read more

Ortal, a leading maker of luxury fireplaces, has expanded its Wilderness Collection with new models that recreate the look and feel of a real campfire. The key to the Wilderness Collection’s ultra-realistic flame is Ortal’s patent-pending Firelog technology. Instead of relying on a single ribbon burner, gas flows through specially designed log media to produce … Read more

I consider myself a truck purist, so when I was offered a chance to test drive a 2019 Honda Ridgeline I admit I was skeptical. After a week behind the wheel, though, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. The Ridgeline’s unibody construction and car-like driving dynamics initially put off traditionalists who favor … Read more

We rang in 2011 with family and friends, enjoying a getaway to the Nevada desert and an overnight stay in Las Vegas. Below are practical travel tips from our trip and a few photos capturing the weekend. Las Vegas Travel Tips 1. If you want to avoid heavy Los Angeles–area congestion when driving to Las … Read more