When planning your deck addition, one of the most important considerations is deciding what materials to use. Today’s advanced composite decking offers a number of advantages compared to wood, PVC and earlier composites, making it an increasingly desirable choice for all types of decking projects. For example, ChoiceDek Foundations wood-plastic composite decking and railing offers fade, stain, scratch, mold and mildew resistance, an attractive appearance and price, ease-of-use and an environmentally friendly alternative. ChoiceDek is available at Lowe’s stores nationwide.

Wood-plastic composite decking is available in a variety of colors and textures that give it a wood-like appearance without the finishing requirements of sealing, staining or painting, so you can begin enjoying your deck as soon as installation is complete. Since composite decking won’t split or splinter, it’s a choice your children and bare feet will also appreciate.

Many composite decking lines also come with complementary railing systems and accessories to make outfitting your deck easier. One popular deck trend is using hidden fastening systems to attach boards to the underlying structure, which offers a nice, smooth deck surface free of screws. To accommodate hidden fasteners, many composite decking lines are available with grooves.

Once you’ve chosen which decking to use, the next steps are designing and building your deck. While this may sound daunting, there are a number of free online deck design tools available to help make planning easier, and a lot of information that can provide guidance on how to build a deck.

Decks can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit the types of activities you’ll be using it for – dining, entertaining, relaxing, etc. Using a deck design tool like Lowe’s Deck Designer online tool can help take the guesswork out of planning your deck; you’ll save time and money, and get to try different designs to see what looks and works best for your yard. Once you’ve completed the design, you can simply print out the automatically generated materials list and head to your local Lowe’s store to get everything you need to start your project.

The “How-to Build a Deck” article on the Lowe’s website outlines what tools you’ll need, deck building terms to know, the importance of designing a deck, how to lay out the deck, as well as detailed information for each step of the building process. Composite decking does not require any special tools or skills to install, and if your deck design includes curved boards, simply heating a composite deck board will allow you to bend it as needed.

Once your new deck is complete, you may find yourself with some leftover materials. Some composite decking, like ChoiceDek Foundations, can be used in virtually any nonstructural application, including projects like docks and walkways where it’s in contact with the ground or water, making it suitable for a variety of uses.

Planter box
Whether you choose to fill it with flowers, ornamentals or edibles, a planter box can brighten your deck and soften the space to help make it more inviting.

Storage bench
No outdoor living space is complete without a seat to sit and enjoy it. And when the seat can double as a place to stow outdoor cushions, toys and garden tools, it’s a double duty must-do for your outdoor living area.

Doghouse
If you’re a DIYer with a dog, make Fido a place of his own that blends in with your new deck. There are many free DIY doghouse plans available online. Don’t have dog? Consider building a birdhouse, instead.

For more information on deck building and design, or to find more creative outdoor project ideas, visit Lowes.com. To learn more about ChoiceDek Foundations decking, go to www.choicedek.com.

Of course, each situation will be as unique as the home in which it occurs – and as individual as the homeowners themselves. A few good rules of thumb, however, do apply in most cases. When you’re considering repair or replacement, ask yourself these questions:

* How old is the malfunctioning item?
* How extensive/pervasive is the problem?
* Will the cost of repair approach the cost of replacement?
* Which course – repair or replace – will yield the maximum energy efficiency?
* How does the cost of repair measure up to the value it will provide? How does replacement stack up using the same measure?

To help you get an idea of how these rules apply, here’s what some experts have to say about home elements that frequently raise the repair/replace question:

Skylights

While many modern skylights are energy-efficient, qualify to use the Energy Star mark and leak-free, if you have an older, plastic model it’s probably a good idea to replace it. Not only are these older plastic bubble-type skylights often faded and unsightly, reducing visibility, they are not UV resistant, are not energy efficient, and are much more likely to leak.

“There are millions of those unattractive, cracked and yellowed plastic skylights still out there,” says Ross Vandermark, national product manager of VELUX America, which markets the warranted “No-Leak Skylight.” “Replacing them with new energy-efficient, double-pane (insulating) glass models is quick and easy. They don’t leak, they look better, they reduce UV rays and provide substantial energy savings.”

In fact, based on an estimate of 15 cents per kwh/hr, replacing an old plastic skylight with an Energy Star-qualified VELUX skylight can save a 2,000-square-foot home about $194 a year on cooling costs, a company study shows. Add skylight blinds – which are available in a variety of styles that can be remote-controlled, including blackout to block light, light filtering to diffuse light, or Venetian to adjust light – and the energy savings can be enhanced even more. And blinds in colors and patterns can add a fresh look to your room decor. What’s more, depending on the age and condition of even older glass skylights, it’s not a bad idea to consider a modern, more energy efficient model. To learn more about replacement skylights, visit www.veluxusa.com.

Windows

Recent research shows that skylights and vertical windows can work well together to effectively daylight a home while contributing to heating and cooling energy savings.

Like skylights, windows have vastly improved in energy efficiency over the past few decades. Leaky, inefficient windows can be a major source of heat loss in a home, boosting energy bills and decreasing the comfort level indoors. Window manufacturer Pella points to these signs that old windows need to be replaced:

* They’re difficult to open or close.
* You can feel air leaking in or out around them.
* Condensation or fogging occurs on or between glass panes.
* You can see chipping, deterioration or water stains on the window or the wall around it.
* Cleaning is a major chore and you avoid it because of the difficulty.
* It’s difficult or impossible to find replacement parts for the old windows.

The Efficient Windows Collaborative (www.efficientwindows.org) site also provides extensive information on selecting both windows and skylights, including fact sheets and computer simulations for typical houses using a variety of windows in a number of U.S. cities.

Heating, ventilation and air cooling

Furnaces and air conditioning units are among the most important parts of your home’s infrastructure; they’re directly responsible for the comfort level and air quality inside your home. They’re also among the more costly items to repair or replace.

So how do you know when it’s time to replace part of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system? EnergyStar.gov offers these guidelines:

* If your heat pump or air conditioner is older than 10 years.
* Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.
* Your energy bills are spiking.
* Equipment needs frequent repair.
* Some rooms are too hot while others are too cold.
* The HVAC system is very noisy.
* Your home is very dusty.

Replacing older HVAC systems with newer, Energy Star-qualified ones can significantly impact your heating and cooling costs, according to EnergyStar.gov. An Energy Star-qualified heat pump or AC unit can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs, the website says. You can learn more at www.energystar.gov.

This year’s leading trends focus on blending functionality with beauty to construct a stylish and usable space that requires little maintenance. To create the best outdoor space on the block, consider these popular ideas for your home.

Post caps
A big trend in decking is beautification – taking your functional space and adding stylish elements that produce visual appeal. One easy way to incorporate this trend is by installing post caps. Mounted at the highest point on the railing, post caps are one of the most prominent features of any deck or patio. Deck and fence post caps like Deckorators VersaCaps give a polished, upscale look for your outdoor space. These one-size-fits-all caps have nested inserts that are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts, making installation simple. They come in a variety of colors and many are available with a built-in solar light. These unique post embellishments are sure to fit your color palette and will enhance your overall outdoor design aesthetic.

Fascia corners
Corner joints can separate over time, creating unsightly gaps. If you’re looking for an easy way to spruce up your current deck, consider adding decorative fascia corners. Simple and unique, decorative fascia corners are an elegant way to adorn deck skirting and cover corner joint connections. Deckorators offers two black powder-coated fascia corner designs – ridge and leaf – that install easily with screws. Fascia corners are an easy way to capture your own personal style while complementing your home’s architecture.

Lighting
Incorporating lighting into your deck area is a big trend because it extends the time you are able to spend in your outdoor space. It also adds an element of safety in a visually pleasing manner. Look for solar powered lights to continue to be popular – you’ll find this sun-powered option on numerous outdoor items such as string lights and fountains. Recessed deck lights are another popular lighting option – perfect for stairs because they softly illuminate steps once the sun has gone down.

Multifunctional furniture
Furnishing outdoor space is essential for creating a relaxing, comfortable environment, but it is also a big investment. That’s why more people are looking for multifunctional options that provide a variety of benefits. For example an outdoor sectional can serve as a large couch or be separated for multiple sitting areas. A small table serves double duty when it opens for hidden storage. An outdoor umbrella with solar lights provides shade during the day and soft light at night for easy all-day entertaining.

Composite decking
If it’s time to replace your whole deck, you might want to consider using composite lumber decking in your new design. Composite decking continues to grow in popularity due to its low maintenance and durability. Today’s composite decking is much different than past options because the designs closely mimic the natural look of wood. Latitudes composite decking, for example, features a more natural-looking surface with a realistic grain pattern available in a variety of colors. Plus it’s backed by a 25-year stain and fade warranty, so it’s guaranteed to look great on your home for a long time, making it a wise investment.

By incorporating these top trends not only will you have a great outdoor space this year, but for many years to come.

“Pools are a great investment, and the vast majority of owners say their pool is a great place to entertain,” says Bill Weber, president and CEO of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP). “Fortunately, some simple upgrades and renovations can help pool owners enjoy their investment even more.”

APSP points to five renovations that can offer homeowners the most satisfaction and value for their investment. The Association suggests homeowners consult with and hire an APSP-certified professional for the best possible results from any of these renovations:

1. Resurfacing – If your in-ground pool is made from concrete, time and use can cause the surface to deteriorate and become rough or even cracked. Resurfacing can restore the beauty and comfort of the pool and extend its functional life. Choose options that provide durability, and consider multiple manufacturers’ products to ensure the best selection. For pools with a vinyl interior, a host of new patterns, available for replacement liners, can transform the appearance of the pool overnight. Fiberglass pool owners also have several resurfacing options. Consult with an APSP-certified professional to determine the best product to make your fiberglass pool look like new.

2. New tile – Just as a kitchen backsplash can transform the overall look of the room, tile can set the tone for how your pool looks. Pool tile options are vast, and changing the tile is one of the most dramatic improvements you can make; it will give you the biggest bang for your buck in terms of appearance.

3. Change the look of the pool deck – The current design trend is to extend the look of interior flooring out into the pool area to create the effect of an outdoor family room. Deck choices range from man-made and natural materials to staining existing concrete. Know that old concrete does not necessarily need to be removed. Often you can fix unsightly cracks and dated concrete decks with a thick overlay and new finish.

4. Add a water feature – Installing a waterfall or fountain is a great way to bring the sound and beauty of moving water to your outdoor environment. Water features also create a strong focal point for the pool. A dramatic spillover or sheer water feature can be dynamic additions to an ordinary pool.

5. Lighting – While safety is a primary function of lights, today’s pool lighting also adds touches of beauty and pizzazz. Standard incandescent and halogen pool lights are functional staples, and fiber optic lighting can add striking color to a nighttime poolscape. Fiber optics are especially great around pools and landscaping because there’s no electrical current to worry about. Long-lasting LED replacement lights can typically be installed with little or no modification to the existing pool. The colored LED lights can create an entirely new mood around your pool while providing energy savings at the same time.

“Of course, there are many more renovations and improvements to consider,” Weber says. “Digital controls make operating pool equipment easier than ever, allowing you to control lighting, heating and cleaning with the touch of the button. And upgrades like adding a salt chlorinator system, solar cover and heater can improve the functionality and efficiency of a pool.”

Keep in mind, you don’t have to do everything at once. Pool renovations can be done over several seasons, allowing you to make the improvements and fund your investment at a pace that works for you. Of course, to ensure you get the most for your money, you’ll want to hire an experienced pool contractor. You can find an APSP certified building or service professional through the organization’s website, www.apsp.org. APSP-certified professionals are required to demonstrate proven knowledge of design, construction and service, follow a strict code of ethics, and must engage in continuing education to maintain their certification.

“Most renovations are quite affordable, and can dramatically change the look of your backyard,” Weber says. “It’s important to ensure your project is performed by a certified professional who can help you turn your vision into reality safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.”

Appliance accents
Stainless steel appliances exude the aura of a high-end, professional kitchen. But the modern stainless appliance wouldn’t be complete without rich, black accents. From ironwork grates and griddles on stainless stoves to refrigerators with black ice makers and handles, the combination of black and stainless conveys professionalism and power. Not in the market for new major appliances? This same feeling can be conveyed with smaller ticket items, from the coffee maker to the toaster oven.

A dramatic finish
The sink is, without a doubt, the most used area in the kitchen. From filling cups to washing dishes; rinsing fruits and vegetables to replenishing Fido’s bowl, the sink is used dozens of times per day. That said, it should be the first place we consider when it comes to decor, not just an afterthought. Since it’s such a central area, why not give your sink a bit of character by adding a dramatic black faucet? The Arbor kitchen faucet in a Matte Black finish from Moen provides a streamlined appearance that coordinates perfectly with black or stainless-and-black kitchen appliances and accessories. The collection also features the Moen Reflex system on pullout and pulldown kitchen faucets. Reflex allows for unmatched performance that offers smooth operation, easy movement and secure retraction.

Pair your bold, black kitchen faucet with a professional-grade stainless steel sink, like a Moen Lancelot Professional undermount sink, to create a look that blends a high-end chef’s kitchen with a touch of signature style.

Sophisticated surfaces
Countertops play a large role in the function of a kitchen, setting the stage for food preparation, the use and display of everything from toasters to teapots, and activities from surfing the internet to entertaining guests. Black granite countertops can be a great addition to an already sophisticated kitchen. The options are far more extensive than basic black, ranging from midnight black to a more mixed shade, with secondary colors of grey, white, or even bolder hues, like sapphire. If your budget doesn’t quite leave enough room for granite countertops, solid surface countertops offer a look that mimics stone, at a lower price point. With a durable, non-porous surface and a seamless appearance, solid surface countertops are the perfect solution for busy families.

Dramatic radiance
Light fixtures can often set the tone for the entire room, both by the light they give off and the look of the fixture. Create a new appearance for your kitchen and dining area by adding a bold choice in lighting. Chandeliers with vintage-style ironwork, strings of black glass or crystal beads, or even dramatic black prints, can be a beautiful accent to an elegant kitchen – the piece de resistance to tie the whole room together.

With just a few stylish, dark-hued accents, you can create a kitchen that stands out, instead of simply blending in.

Step 1: Get inspired
Home magazines and online resources, such as Pinterest and Houzz, are filled with all the newest color palettes, design themes and patterns to get your inspiration flowing. While time-consuming tasks, such as replacing the tub, sink or tile aren’t in the cards for a quick weekend makeover, a new wall color, showerhead and faucet can be easily added. Utilize the many beautiful bath photos to find the theme or color scheme that calls to you and run with it.

Step 2: One-stop shop
Heading to only one or two stores is crucial for any weekend warrior. Your time should be spent renovating, not driving all over town for what you need. So, once you’ve found your inspiration, do a bit of online research to locate the products at your local home improvement store that would be an ideal fit in your new and improved bath. Planning ahead will lessen frustrations when you begin scouring the aisles.

Step 3: Finding the perfect products
For a weekend makeover, focus on the following products: paint, faucets, showering, accessories and accents.

• Paint: Be sure to choose a semi-gloss or bathroom-specific paint, since the steam from hot showers and excessive water flow can make the bathroom a harsh environment.

• Faucets: When selecting your faucet, consider style, finish, coordinating products and quality. The new Moen Boardwalk bath collection, for instance, features a blend of vintage design and classic lines for a stunning look in any bath – while also offering a wide selection of matching showering products and accessories. It’s available in chrome and Moen’s Spot Resist Brushed Nickel finishes, which does exactly what it says – resists fingerprints and water spots. Plus, Moen products feature a limited lifetime warranty to ensure quality.

• Accessories: Bath accessories, such as robe hooks, paper holders or towel bars, are an ideal way to keep your room looking neat and coordinated. But the latest products can also add thoughtful functionality – and even safety – to your bath.

For instance, are you tired of finding towels on the counter or floor, rather than hanging on the towel ring? Put this pet peeve in the past with the new Moen Retractable Towel Ring. The new accessory offers the traditional benefit of a towel ring, with a retractable cord to allow the towel to be used while it remains neatly in place.

Next, for added safety with style, try Designer Grab Bars with Accessories, which combine the safety benefits of a grab bar with one of three common bath essentials – a towel bar, a paper holder and a shelf – making each item functional and fashionable. Adding these discreet safety solutions will keep your bath looking great while still being practical.

• Showering: The shower is a place to escape and relax – so be sure to find products to enhance this space. Today’s showerheads come in a variety of designs – wallmount, handheld, multi-function, rainshower – or a combination of all. Find the one that suits your showering style and be sure to choose a finish to coordinate with the rest of your bath.

Need more space in your tub/shower? Try adding a curved shower rod. In addition to adding a unique style statement in your bath, it’ll add up to six more inches of elbow room. Finish the look with a new set of Moen double shower curtain rings that offer a unique double-hook design to separate the decorative curtain from the liner.

• Accents: Once you’ve chosen all the hardware for your bath, you’ll need to think of the softer accents to help pull your design together. A new shower curtain, decorative towels, throw rug and curtains will add the final finishing touch to your new space.

Step 4: Install and enjoy
Once you’ve made your product selections, it’s time to start your update. Luckily, each of these projects can be accomplished quickly and are simple enough for even a novice. Just be sure to follow the instructions on each product’s packaging and, in no time at all, you’ll have a beautiful and delightful bath with added storage and safety solutions. For more information about Moen products, visit www.moen.com.

Once you’ve made the decision to re-side your home with vinyl siding, however, you need a qualified contractor to install it properly to ensure long-lasting curb appeal.

“Vinyl siding is not something anyone with a hammer can install,” says Matt Russo, production manager with Hollingsworth Home Improvement in Naperville, Ill. “There are techniques that need to be followed.”

Look for installers certified through a program sponsored by the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI). A VSI Certified Installer knows how to:

* Correctly fasten siding to allow for vinyl’s normal expansion and contraction properties and keep it straight and secure on the wall.
* Properly prepare the area around doors, windows and other openings to prevent water infiltration.
* Pay attention to details that will give your home a beautiful appearance that will last.

When Margaret Seibert needed to have her 30-year-old siding replaced after a particularly heavy Minnesota storm, she looked to a firm that used only VSI Certified Installers to ensure a quality job. “They did a really good job, and I’m very satisfied with how it looks,” Seibert says.

“The main thing is not nailing the siding too tightly, but letting it move,” says Matt Ocel, owner of Ocel Buildings in Farmington, Minn., which completed Seibert’s re-siding job. “Especially with a climate where you go from 100-degree days to 40-below, you have to leave room for vinyl siding to expand and contract.”

With nearly 3,500 VSI Certified Installers across the U.S. and Canada, VSI offers a locator tool to help homeowners find professionals in their area. Log on to www.vinylsiding.org to learn more. Ask if your builder or home improvement contractor is using VSI Certified Installers; these qualified professionals carry a photo ID with their current certification number and expiration date.

VSI Certified Installers have demonstrated their installation skills and knowledge of the industry standard ASTM 4756, verified by an independent quality control agency. ASTM standards are used around the world to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade and build consumer confidence. VSI Certified Installers must have a minimum of one year of experience installing vinyl siding and accessories, attend a hands-on course taught by a VSI Certified Trainer, pass a written test about proper installation practices, and be recertified every three years.

Vinyl siding installation companies can also become certified. The company must have an approved quality control program, as well as a certified installer or trainer present on every job crew where vinyl siding is being installed.

For more information about VSI’s program, visit www.vinylsiding.org/certifiedinstaller.

“Take some time to talk to an experienced contractor so you know the best options for your situation,” advises master plumber Mario Rink, co-owner of Mechanical Solutions Unlimited in Culpeper, Va.

The basement is one of the most common areas where homeowners want to install an extra bathroom, says Rink, a professional plumber for more than three decades. But mess, noise and high expense come with blasting through concrete to install a drain line. “I always make a site visit so I can listen to what the customer wants and needs, and then find the best solution for them, both cost-wise and convenience-wise,” he says.

Three options for basement baths

In most situations, there are three choices for a basement bathroom addition: conventional plumbing, sewage ejectors or an up-flush macerating toilet system.

“If there isn’t a drain line, with gravity-fed plumbing, you have to dig through the concrete flooring to create one,” Rink says. “And excavation is messy, can be unpredictable and is expensive.”

Uncertainty is chief among the challenges, he says. Installers don’t always know the depth of the concrete and whether there are rocks, rebar or even a ledge underneath. Any of these can result in delays and even the need to reconfigure the location of the bathroom addition. And, of course, anytime you open up the concrete there is a chance of water seeping through the basement floor.

“Some plumbers will suggest using sewage ejectors as an alternative to conventional plumbing, but there is still major digging involved with those,” Rink adds. Sewage ejectors also require a large (typically 30-inch by 30-inch) sewage tank, which accumulates bathroom waste over numerous flushes before transferring it to the main drain. This storage can also cause odor problems.

When drainage isn’t available, Rink recommends Saniflo macerating, or up-flush, plumbing systems. No digging is required with this clean and simple type of plumbing that is installed right on top of the existing floor. Waste and water from a toilet, tub and sink are pumped up through small-diameter piping, rather than flowing down like conventional plumbing. And the up-flush system never stores waste like a sewage ejector; it’s moved to the septic or sewer with every flush.

Under the stairs? Why not?

Rink says up-flush plumbing makes sense not just in the basement, but anywhere there is no existing drainage – even in tight areas. He’s used this technology for bathroom additions in a variety of locations, including underneath a stairway when a customer wanted to take on a renter, but had limited space.

The ease of installation and low cost make this alternative a smart way to deal with any unusual plumbing scenarios.

“Recently, I had a customer whose elderly mother had no bathroom on the ground floor of her home,” Rink says. “Her daughter was worried about her using the stairs and wanted to add a bath. The only sewer connection was in the kitchen, which couldn’t be used, so I decided to put a full bathroom right inside the attached garage,” where he used up-flush plumbing to create the bathroom.

Rink’s clever solution gave the daughter peace of mind and saved her a lot of money. “With regular plumbing, we would have had to cut and patch the whole garage floor,” he says. “All that additional labor is costly, but it’s the mess that scares people the most.”

Saniflo CEO Regis Saragosti agrees: “What people seem to like most about up-flush technology is that they avoid the pitfalls of breaking up concrete. No one wants that noise or mess, and they certainly don’t want the high cost associated with it.”

“What you get with these up-flush systems is enormous flexibility,” Rink says, noting they can be used for bathrooms, kitchens, wet bars and even laundry rooms. “And you don’t have to dust-proof the house because you’re running around with jack hammers. Up-flush plumbing is a much cleaner solution, and customers should ask for it.”

So there’s no need to wait, even if you’re adding a bathroom in a room without drainage. With up-flush plumbing, a complete bathroom can be installed in half a day, according to Rink. “And the cost is roughly half that of a traditional bathroom.”

Many homeowners think a professional-looking lawn requires a stringent water and fertilizer regimen. While both water and fertilizer play their part, neither is the stand-alone key to a perfect lawn. The following five tips offer homeowners simple solutions to achieving a great yard.

* Know your region. Grass seed is not one size fits all. Select the right grass seed or sod based on where you live. It’s also important to consider how you plan to use your lawn. Do you have children and pets that will be playing on it regularly, or will the purpose be primarily curb appeal? To determine the right grass, talk to your local garden center or contact the turf grass specialist at your state agriculture school.

* Only feed as needed. According to Grass Seed USA, a coalition of American grass seed farmers, many homeowners over water their lawns, which does more harm than good. A simple trick to determine whether your lawn needs watering is to stick a screwdriver into the grass. If it enters the dirt easily, your lawn has plenty of water already. If you have trouble getting the screwdriver into the ground, it is time to give the grass a drink. It is also recommended to fertilize your lawn at least once a year. However, putting your lawn on a quarterly schedule will help achieve optimal health.

* Break out the ruler. The maintenance crews for professional sports fields are meticulous about the height of their grass because it ensures a uniform look. Grass Seed USA recommends maintaining a lawn height of about 2 inches. It’s important not to cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time to minimize damage, so aim to mow when your lawn is about 3 inches in height.

* Arm yourself with the right tools. The proper equipment can take a lawn from looking well-manicured to professional. When selecting a mower, don’t jump straight to those that pick up the grass clippings. Allowing the clippings to decompose in the lawn will add to the overall health of your yard, and when you mow often, the shavings are small and less noticeable. Adding an edger to your arsenal is another great trick for cleaning up the lines and defining your yard.

* Replenish as necessary. Grass is a natural carpet that cleans and repairs itself. It’s equipped to withstand a number of elements yet is impacted over time. If you’ve noticed that your lawn is sparse in areas, or not as full and lush as you’d like, it may be time to add more seed. The best time to plant new seed is in the fall when the temperatures are more temperate. But reseeding may be done throughout the year. The important thing is to avoid drastic temperature changes and water regularly, yet moderately, to give the seed time to absorb moisture and build roots.

Growing and maintaining a lush green lawn doesn’t have to come with a backache. Basic planning and these five quick tips will have you well on your way to a backyard prime for the summer season.

(ARA) – You’ve made the decision to remodel your home. The budget range and project scope have been set. You’ve even preemptively told your sister-in-law she’ll need to host Christmas (alright, that was before you knew you were going to remodel). Now what?

Following these guidelines and tips will simplify the process of turning your vision (or lack of vision) into a ravishing remodel.

First, breathe. This is going to be fun.

Setting the style scene

Many homeowners know exactly where their preferences fall on the style spectrum. Others have no idea. As a first step, it’s wise to identify and determine how to articulate your personal style before moving forward with any steps of the remodel. There are even websites that allow you to take a style quiz in order to determine where your style falls.

Flipping through magazines, home design blogs and even becoming aware of how you feel in other people’s homes should help you determine your style. During this process, consider your long-term plans for the space and make sure the style will grow with you as your tastes develop and change.

Developing a mood board, even if you think you know what you want for a space, can help you visualize your design style. A mood board will ensure that others (professionals or family members) see eye-to-eye with you on your vision. Gather items on your mood board such as colors, patterns and images that make you feel good. You (and a designer) can make sense and draw meaning from it later.

There are some great resources online for developing these boards. Pinterest, a tool that allows users to “pin” their favorite items, is growing in popularity and KraftMaid Cabinetry has a tool on its website that allows visitors to collect their inspirations in one place.

Dreams turned into design

Now that you’re in tune with your style, it’s time to get moving. The remodeling process is overwhelming. Some brave souls attempt to tackle it on their own, and it can end up being a full time job – a time commitment most homeowners simply can’t afford. Designers are a great resource and should be engaged early on in the process.

“One of the biggest advantages working with a designer on a home project is they really understand functionality, while accomplishing your desired style,” says Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education at KraftMaid Cabinetry. “By telling a designer more details about your lifestyle and gripes about your current layout, they will turn out a well-designed space that will fit your needs.”

Working with professionals doesn’t have to break the bank and can actually save you time, money and your sanity. Make sure the professionals you engage are fully certified and qualified for the task. For example, NKBA members are designers that specialize in kitchens and bathrooms. Homeowners can locate these individuals by visiting www.nkba.org and searching for an NKBA professional in their area.

At the end of the day, you’ll be thankful for the time spent during the dreaming and designing process. Transforming a space into one that you truly enjoy will make loving your home even easier.