Author: Sarah Martinez

Your roof protects your home from the elements and serves as one of its most visible design features. It is also a significant investment that contributes to your property value. Regular inspections and maintenance safeguard the longevity and performance of your home’s roofing system.

When it comes to repairing, replacing or enhancing your home’s roofing, expert recommendations from trusted contractors are vital. At Miracle Home Improvements, we have worked with homeowners in Croton-on-Hudson, Cortlandt Manor, Briarcliff, Ossining and Yorktown for over 26 years to help them improve their home’s exteriors through roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and skylights. To help you make wise re-roofing decisions, here are some helpful tips from our experts:

Choose a Reputable Contractor

Check a prospective roofing contractor’s credentials. Verify that they are licensed and insured, and ask for references and online reviews. Look for a company that offers comprehensive roofing services, such as repairs, replacements and new installations. A quality roofing company will also offer additional exterior services, such as window and door installation, vinyl siding, and gutters.

A reputable roofing company will provide a detailed cost estimate before beginning work on your project. This will include the cost of the roofing materials, labor rates and the costs of any related expenses such as dumpster rental, disposal, cleanup, and a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses.

The type of roofing material you choose will have a big impact on the overall cost of your roofing project. Asphalt shingles are the most popular and affordable, while metal roofs are increasingly sought after for their durability and energy efficiency. Other choices include clay or concrete tiles, which are fire-resistant and offer a unique aesthetic, and slate, which is highly durable but requires extensive maintenance.

Regardless of which type of roofing material you choose, you will need to consider the installation requirements and potential for structural damage during the installation process. Ask your roofing contractor to explain what is involved in installing the chosen material, as well as any additional upgrades you may want to include such as ventilation systems or insulation.

In addition to ensuring that your roofing contractor has experience working with your desired roofing material, you should ask them about the warranty options available. Be sure to understand the manufacturer’s warranty, as well as the contractor’s workmanship warranty. Ask whether they will register the manufacturer’s warranty for you, and if they offer any additional warranties on their own.

The roof is the most important part of your home, so be sure to select a quality roofing contractor. The experts at Miracle Home Improvements can help you make wise re-roofing choices to protect and enhance your home’s exterior, and add to its value. Contact us today for a free estimate on your next home improvement project!

Home repair assistance helps low-income homeowners address urgent or chronic home conditions that endanger health, safety and livability. These include water leaks, unsafe structures and utilities, unreliable heating, plumbing problems, deteriorating roofs, and lack of accessibility or energy efficiency. Most of the largest cities in the US have municipal programs that provide loans or grants for these repairs. These programs are a key source of support for lower-income residents and are complemented by other national and local nonprofit providers. For example, the US Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program improves energy efficiency for lower-income households nationwide. Local community action agencies, neighborhood groups and Habitat for Humanity offer additional services to assist low-income residents with home repair.

In Delaware, there are roughly 25,000 homes in need of repair, according to an independent assessment. This figure includes both structural and health-related conditions such as lead paint, asbestos, unsafe septic systems, and insufficient or nonexistent insulation. Key informants report that the needs of this pool are well beyond the capacity of existing home repair programs, which are characterized by limited funding and the capacity to complete very few repairs per year.

Most of the organizations that offer repair services are focused on providing housing stability for low-income families, often with particular emphasis on vulnerable populations such as elderly householders. As a result, they are well-positioned to connect with households experiencing chronic illness or disability and their healthcare providers, who are able to make recommendations for necessary home modifications that can help people stay safely in their homes.

This approach is a common one, and many programs link with healthcare services to help families manage health-related home modifications. For instance, NHS Brooklyn, a nonprofit in New York City, offers grant money to enable veterans with mobility challenges due to combat, non-combat injuries or serious illness to make accessibility modifications to their homes.

Despite these opportunities for connections with health care, the vast majority of home repair programs have no direct connection to healthcare. This is largely because government grant money generally does not flow directly to individuals, but rather to state agencies, which then distribute the funds to specific programs.

A few programs are trying to fill the gap by integrating health care with home repair. These include a collaboration between three local Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Delaware to design a statewide Healthy Homes program, which aims to increase capacity for home repair and incorporate partnerships with healthcare providers. This approach can be effective because it allows organizations to bundle multiple types of support and assistance, including home repair, while linking it with healthcare, thereby increasing the impact of each dollar invested. This article originally appeared on Shelterforce.

The name ty bryan might not be a household one for many Americans today, but for those who grew up during the ’90s, it was a familiar one. Bryan, who starred as Brad Taylor, the oldest of the Taylor children, on ABC’s Home Improvement, has gone on to have an interesting life after his acting days. From savvy Bitcoin investments to Hollywood appearances, Bryan has managed to carve out his own path in life.

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Bryan started his career in the early ’90s with print and television commercials, including spots for Ralph Lauren and Burger King. He eventually caught the eye of a talent agent who saw potential in him and soon he was moving to California in pursuit of his dream to act. Bryan landed his breakout role as Brad Taylor, the oldest child of Tim Allen’s family on Home Improvement. He was a popular character on the show, despite being a month younger than his real-life older brother Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played the younger Randy in the series.

Following the end of Home Improvement, Bryan continued to act and landed a role as Steve on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which lasted for five seasons before the show was cancelled. He also had a brief stint on Veronica Mars, as Peter Nicols and made appearances on Smallville, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and ER, among others.

Bryan’s personal journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs. In 2020, he was arrested for domestic violence charges after allegedly strangling his girlfriend at their Oregon home. He ended up pleading guilty to two domestic violence misdemeanors and received 36 months of probation. He also managed to get back together with the woman he allegedly strangled and they married in 2021.

In recent years, Bryan has taken on a variety of projects. He’s acted in the films Daddy’s Little Girl and The Kindergarten Teacher, and was an executive producer on the 2018 remake of Knight Rider. He’s also done some voice work on various animated shows and has a few other TV projects in the works.

More recently, Bryan has been focusing on music. He released a self-titled EP in 2023 and has spent the majority of the year teasing song snippets, demos and clips across his social media. Hopefully, this means we’ll be seeing a full-length album from the talented young Oklahoma star in the near future.

Home improvement projects are a great way to make your house feel like your own. However, not everyone has the time or money to undertake a full remodel or hire contractors. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy diy home improvement projects that can be done in just a weekend or two. These projects can be as simple as painting walls or adding storage to a closet, but they can also add major visual appeal and functionality to your home.

Whether you want to upgrade your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or living room, these affordable projects will transform the look of your home without breaking your budget. For starters, try repainting your walls with a color that better suits your style and personality. This is a relatively easy project that requires only basic tools and materials, and it can have a huge impact on the overall look of your space.

Another easy home improvement idea is to install a new light fixture. Swapping out outdated fixtures can instantly give a room a fresh, modern look. In addition, installing energy-efficient appliances will help you save on your utility bills.

If you’re looking to revamp your dining room, consider installing a custom table or bench. This is a fairly straightforward project that doesn’t require any prior woodworking experience and can be completed in just one weekend. Creating a custom desk is another great way to improve your home office or bedroom. Not only will it be a functional and attractive piece, but it will also serve as a focal point in your room.

Many people struggle with storage in their homes, but there are many creative and affordable ways to add more storage space. For example, building a set of floating shelves can free up space on your wall while providing additional storage for books and other decorative items. Alternatively, you could build a custom bookcase for your living room or a storage bench for the entryway.

When it comes to diy home improvements for beginners, it’s important to know your limits and be willing to ask for assistance when needed. It’s also a good idea to start with smaller projects and work your way up to more complex renovations. Additionally, it’s important to prioritize safety and always use proper equipment and follow instructions when performing any home improvement task.

In addition to improving your home’s aesthetic, these diy projects can increase the resale value of your property. Therefore, it’s important to choose a project that fits your skill level and your personal taste. In the end, there are endless possibilities for DIY home improvement projects that will allow you to create a beautiful and functional space. Just remember to prioritize safety and be sure to research your project before getting started. You may even be surprised at how easily you can turn your home into a dream home with these easy diy projects!

Home and improvement is an industry that has seen some significant growth in recent years. This industry includes the sale of building materials, appliances and decor, as well as the services offered by contractors and tradespeople who install, repair and upgrade homes. It also includes companies that produce smart technology to automate various functions in a house, such as heating and cooling systems and lighting.

Home improvement is a major responsibility for homeowners, as it involves the ongoing maintenance of one’s property. These tasks include repairing and maintaining the home’s structural integrity, addressing safety hazards and making upgrades to improve the functionality of the home. These improvements can also increase resale value.

There are many different ways to improve a home, and the options are nearly limitless. However, homeowners should prioritize projects that will add the most long-term value and ensure that the project is completed correctly and in a timely manner. In order to do this, it is important to have a clear vision for the finished product and a plan for how the work will be executed.

Keeping up with regular maintenance is one of the best ways to add value to a home, as it will prevent larger issues from arising and help the home retain its resale value. In addition, homeowners can make simple upgrades that will improve the look of the home, such as replacing dated fixtures with modern ones.

Another way to increase the value of a home is by making energy-efficient improvements. These types of projects can reduce a homeowner’s energy bills and improve the home’s overall comfort level. Additionally, these types of projects can often qualify for tax rebates.

The term “home improvement” refers to any type of renovation or remodeling project that is done on a residential dwelling. This can include adding new rooms, renovating existing ones, or changing the interior and exterior of a home. Some examples of home improvement projects are installing a new roof, painting the interior or exterior of a home, paving a driveway or patio, or making other landscaping changes. Other examples are converting an attic or basement into living space, installing a swimming pool, and making other types of repairs.

Renovating a home can be expensive, especially for homeowners who need to hire a general contractor and pay for materials. But with the right contractor, renovation projects can be done on time and on budget. We’ve compiled a list of the best home renovation contractors near me to help homeowners find a reputable professional for their next project.

We’ve chosen these top-rated general contractors based on their reliability, professionalism, and quality of work. Many of them offer company financing to help homeowners get the funds they need to complete their projects. These companies can also provide helpful tips for how to save money during a home renovation.

The Home Depot

The Home Depot is a popular choice for homeowners who need to update their homes with new kitchen or bathroom products. Its services can range from tub membrane recoating to custom cabinets and counters. The Home Depot’s nationwide availability and extensive selection of products are some of its biggest selling points.

One of the main factors that determines a general contractor’s cost is how much material they need to purchase for a particular project. This can change as market prices fluctuate, so it’s important to know how much you want your renovation to cost before hiring a contractor. Homeowners can use online calculators to get an approximate idea of how much their project will cost.

Another factor that affects a general contractor’s costs is labor rates. Different types of work have varying rates. For example, electricians and plumbers tend to charge more than carpenters or painters. Lastly, some renovations require specialized equipment that increases labor costs. For example, installing quartz countertops will cost more than a standard laminate countertop.

A local general contractor is usually the best option for homeowners because they’ll be familiar with building codes and regulations in their area. They can also easily pull permits if required. Homeowners should always ask potential general contractors for references and check their licenses and insurance.

The best home renovation contractors near me will have a good reputation and be experienced in completing various types of projects. They should be able to answer any questions you may have about your project and provide detailed quotes for your review. Some of these contractors will be able to provide design services as well, which can make the entire process easier for you. You can also compare multiple contractors by looking at their price ranges, reviews, and service areas to ensure you choose the right person for your renovation.

Whether you’re a new homeowner or have been in your home for some time, there are a variety of easy DIY projects that can improve your space and add value. From reorganizing your garage to installing a new backsplash, these ideas allow you to update your living space on your own terms and without the need for contractors.

Some of the most popular do-it-yourself upgrades include painting, changing out fixtures, and adding storage. These projects can be done in just a day and will add a fresh, updated look to your home. If you’re looking for more sophisticated updates, consider incorporating a custom-designed backsplash or adding LED lights to your dining room. You can even make your own unique mason jar pendant lights for a fun, contemporary look.

Repainting your walls is a great way to refresh the color scheme and give your home a modern appearance at an affordable price. Using paint rollers, a ladder, and a few supplies from your local hardware store, this is a project that can easily be completed in one weekend.

If you want to take it a step further, try experimenting with different color combinations and textures that reflect your personal style. Installing new cabinet handles is another inexpensive home improvement that can have a big impact on your kitchen or bathroom’s aesthetic. You can also use these home improvement ideas to upgrade your light fixtures, such as by converting old chandeliers into industrial-style pendant lights or adding recessed lighting to your kitchen island.

Upgrading the lighting in your home can enhance its appearance while making tasks easier. You can replace your existing bulbs with energy-efficient bulbs or choose a smart bulb for additional features like remote control and alerts. Another simple, cost-effective way to change out your lighting is by adding decorative sconces to your bathroom.

Many homeowners are concerned about the amount of clutter in their homes, especially after moving in. Organizing your garage or potting shed is a quick, affordable home improvement project that can help you get rid of unwanted items and save valuable space. To make your job easier, purchase a set of clear bins and label them with a permanent marker. Then, repurpose spice containers or mason jars to store pesky small tools and supplies like nails and screws.

A common home improvement idea is to build a privacy screen for your backyard, especially if your neighbors are close. You can plant tightly spaced shrubs, bamboo, or small pines to create a natural barrier that will block noise and sun exposure. If you’d rather not deal with the maintenance, you can try building a fence or installing a trellis covered in vines.

If you’re considering selling your home in the future, these easy home improvements can boost your home’s curb appeal and make it feel like a brand-new space. You can also add value to your property by refinishing hardwood floors, replacing dated appliances with new energy-efficient ones, or by cleaning air ducts.

Whether you’re thinking about selling your home in the near future or want to make it feel more like your own, there are a number of ways to improve your house. While few home improvements recoup 100% of their cost, well-considered upgrades will add value and boost your quality of life while you live there.

A fresh coat of paint, updated appliances and a landscape with curb appeal are some of the most popular home improvement projects. These upgrades are relatively inexpensive and simple enough to complete on your own. They can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency, a major selling point for potential buyers.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider asking an interior designer to visit your home and give you some suggestions for improvement. They typically charge a modest fee for their services, and can often provide helpful tips that will save you time and money down the road.

Before you start making major changes, take a closer look at your current belongings and ask yourself, “What can I repurpose?” It’s tempting to think that you need to completely gut your kitchen or replace your carpets with new ones, but it’s usually a better financial move to focus on upgrades that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Changing the color of your front door is a quick and easy way to boost curb appeal, while adding a window box with petunias, geraniums or ivy is an affordable and timeless way to upgrade your exterior.

Many home improvement projects, such as replacing a bathroom vanity or installing new flooring, will likely recoup most of their costs during the sales process. But some, such as a custom-built kitchen or high-end granite countertops, may not pay off. For maximum resale value, choose neutral finishes and materials that are on-trend but less expensive than bespoke options.

When it comes to financing your home improvements, cash remains the most common source of funding, according to a 2024 Houzz and Home Study. However, you can also opt for credit cards or secured loans, such as a home equity line of credit (HELOC). HELOCs offer lower interest rates than personal loans and credit cards, and they’re secured against your home’s equity stake.

If you’re considering a home improvement project, consider working with an expert to ensure that it will add value and improve your quality of life. If you’re not sure how much your project will cost, a pre-inspection from a real estate professional can help you determine which upgrades are worth the investment. If you need to store furniture or other belongings while you’re making upgrades, Extra Space Storage has convenient self storage locations throughout the U.S. Contact one of our stores for more information and to reserve a unit. Best of all, we offer flexible terms so that you can store your things as long as you need to. We’ll even hold them for you until your home is sold.

Home improvement projects are an excellent way to add value to your home. However, whole-house renovations are often expensive and can take a long time to complete. Fortunately, there are plenty of do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement ideas that can be completed quickly and without breaking the bank. From painting, re-grouting tile, and power washing the exterior to adding storage space and a backsplash to your kitchen, these cheap diy home improvements will make your house look and function better.

Paint

Changing interior paint colors is an inexpensive and effective home improvement project that can drastically transform a room’s mood and style. Choose a neutral shade like white or gray to appeal to a wide range of buyers, or try something bolder to increase your home’s curb appeal. If you’re not ready to commit to a whole new color scheme, simply re-painting your ceiling can give a room a fresh look for a fraction of the cost.

Repurposed Furniture

If you have an old dresser, hutch, or headboard sitting in your garage, don’t throw it away! With a little sanding, staining, and reupholstery, you can turn these pieces into cool home upgrades that will enhance your living space. A simple repurposed piece can make an impressive coffee table, hallway mirror, or storage bench.

Landscaping

A well-maintained yard is one of the simplest ways to improve your home’s appearance, and it will also increase its value. Planting flowers, bushes, and trees will give your home an inviting curb appeal, while a manicured lawn can be an instant conversation starter for potential buyers. If you have a small budget, consider planting low-maintenance perennials like geraniums and impatiens instead of high-maintenance shrubbery or annuals.

Lighting Upgrades

Nothing turns off buyers faster than dated light fixtures, so replacing outdated bulbs with brighter LED or CFL fixtures will instantly update your home’s interior. Whether you install a pendant light over the dining room table or wall sconces in the bathroom, upgraded lighting will brighten your home and provide a stylish finishing touch. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even try your hand at designing your own DIY light fixture!

A home improvement retailer is an organization that offers a wide range of products used in construction and to enhance the appearance of residential and commercial buildings. Examples of such goods include drywall, lumber, flooring, paint, appliances, plumbing fixtures and tools, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and landscaping materials. These retailers are also able to offer a variety of installation services to their customers.

The biggest names in the home improvement retail space are Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Ace Hardware, with 84 Lumber and Tractor Supply making up some of the smaller competitors. All of these companies are looking to differentiate their offering in the market, and they are focused on delivering on their promises to consumers.

Interest rates are rising and the housing market is cooling, and those factors are keeping people from spending money on do-it-yourself projects during this difficult time. The COVID-19 lockdown has also turned people’s homes into their office spaces, and that trend will likely continue to impact retail sales of home improvement products.

With these factors in play, it’s not a surprise that home improvement retail revenues are down. In fact, it is not expected that the industry will return to increases until late 2024. But there is one area of the market that has held steady in the face of the slowdown: sales by professional contractors.

For many of the home improvement retailers, that means focusing on better serving and incentivizing contractors to shop their stores. This could mean improving the online experience for contractors, or streamlining their ordering process. For example, having an easy-to-use system that enables contractors to order all the supplies they need for their next project in one place can save them time and help keep them profitable.

Another way that some home improvement retailers are improving the experience for professionals is by partnering with distribution channel teams to make it easier for them to access what they need. Offering the right solutions for a contractor can be as important to maintaining share of wallet as it is to attracting new customers.

Whether they are serving pros or doing it themselves, successful brands know that the omnichannel customer experience is key to their success. That’s why they are using data to identify pain points and provide practical solutions.

In a market where large retail chains are stealing sales from each other, winning the trust of customers can be challenging. This is especially true for a niche category like home improvement, where consumers are used to going to local home centers or hardware stores. However, if they want to compete with the big guys, home improvement brands need to do everything they can to provide the best possible customer experience.

Developing and executing the right strategy to sell into home improvement retailers takes a lot of hard work and collaboration with partners. But with the right tools and the right partner, a brand can achieve great results.