Home Improvement

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(Family Features) If there’s one thing parents know, it’s children thrive on routines. When it seems like everything is changing, routines can create stability.

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(Family Features) Adopting and fostering pets continues to trend as people across the nation add furry friends to their families for company during these unprecedented times. However, building a bond is just the first step to pet ownership; curiosity and care for your pet’s health lasts its entire life.

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(Family Features) Creating the closet of your dreams could be in closer reach than you may think if you're willing to take matters into your own hands. With a little creative inspiration and some basic DIY skills, you may be surprised by the stylish space you can design by yourself.

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(BPT) - Hundreds of millions of people have sheltered in place as governments issue executive orders to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, many homes are becoming a fortress against the virus, a makeshift school, an office outpost and a daycare facility. As homeowners continue to spend more time at home with the appliances and lights on, they are looking for ways to optimize the efficiency of their homes.

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(BPT) - While the crisp autumn air signals the change of seasons, it also brings fire safety risks associated with fall activities, such as getting cozy around a campfire and burning candles. While spending more time at home and cooking more indoors as cooler weather approaches, it is important to be prepared. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

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(Family Features) Follow these simple steps for building your dream escape – right in your own backyard. For more inspiration and ideas, visit Trex.com.

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(Family Features) With many families stuck at home juggling working remotely, homeschooling and trying to keep everyone happy and healthy, it can be easy to let an otherwise active lifestyle fall by the wayside.

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(Family Features) While many people may not be able to travel much this year, they can still get a taste of each state by snacking on their favorite Quest Bar. With 19 flavors, there’s one to feed just about anyone’s cravings without nutritional compromise. Find your state’s favorite flavor based on a survey of 2,000 respondents at questnutrition.com.

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Providing teachers and families tools for in-person and at-home learning

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(Family Features) Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, families are still finding ways to make the most of unusual schedules to plan a getaway. With more flexible work and school arrangements, many families are embracing the idea of a “flexcation,” an emerging travel trend where families rent vacation homes later in August, September and October, consider staying longer to mix work and play, and often get better value in high-demand locales.

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(BPT) - Quarantine and social distancing means spending more time at home. This has inspired renewed interest in home improvement and DIY projects. While warm-weather months are ideal for many projects, they also can bring high temperatures and dangerous heat.

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(BPT) - Thanks to the pandemic, most Americans are spending way more time at home, which makes it more important than ever that our living spaces reflect who we are as individuals and families. Renovation projects with hardwood are a great way to personalize your home while improving its looks, comfort, and value. “No other material rivals the range of colors, textures, and grain patterns offered by hardwood,” notes Linda Jovanovich, of the American Hardwood Information Center. “That variety allows homeowners to make any upgrade — large or small — unique so that the style and character of a room matches that of its occupants perfectly.” Here are some examples of hardwood being used to create highly individualized spaces.

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(Family Features) If your homeowner insurance rates are creeping up even though you haven’t filed any claims, it may be time to take a look at how you can bring those prices back down.

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(Family Features) First introduced in the late 1980s, composite decking quickly gained acceptance among builders and homeowners who recognized and appreciated being able to achieve a natural wood look without the ongoing hassles of upkeep. While most people today understand the main benefits of composite decking – durability and minimal maintenance – the material itself is still new enough to raise questions, confusion and some skepticism among homeowners who grew up with wood decks.

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(Family Features) For most people, the home is their family’s most significant asset. Upgrading is a smart approach to protecting and growing the value of that investment.

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(NewsUSA) - Defending against the elements, a home's roof helps protect against water infiltration that could threaten structural integrity and lead to mold or indoor air-quality issues. Timely roof repair or replacement is essential to protecting the home and its occupants. The following tips can help homeowners safely repair or replace a damaged roof:

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(BPT) - While the office, school and home now share one roof, keeping your house and family safe has never been more important. Thanks to enhanced safety technology, you can better protect against the threats of smoke, fire and carbon monoxide (CO), allowing you to go about your busy lifestyle without skipping a beat. When upgrading your protection, make sure to install alarms with the latest safety enhancements. Alarms should be installed on every level of the home, including in each bedroom and outside every sleeping area.

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(Family Features) Summer means it’s time to check for ticks, especially if you have recently spent time outdoors, taking part in activities such as hiking, camping, gardening, dog-walking or more.

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(Family Features) If you have a fire escape plan in place for your home, you’re steps ahead of many Americans. According to the National Fire Protection Association, only 30% of American households have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. It’s important for families to stay ahead of the curve and be prepared in the event of a fire.

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(BPT) - Do you feel like you’re spending more money on utilities? Social distancing and quarantining at home throughout spring and early summer may mean higher electricity needs and cooling demands.

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(BPT) - Whether you're dreaming of a complete home remodel or a simple decor update, you may not be factoring your pets in your decision-making and overall design process. But how many times have you regretted a furniture or upholstery choice once Fido or Fluffy got their paws (and fur) on it?

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(StatePoint) Whether you’re building a new home or making exterior updates, there are many decisions you’ll have to make. Perhaps topping the list in importance is what materials you select for your roofing and siding. Not only do your selections impact your home’s curb appeal, but some choices have the potential to save you money and help increase your family’s safety.

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(Family Features) Kitchens and bathrooms remain among the top picks for homeowners looking to upgrade because their functional contributions to the household can’t be overstated and they typically provide high return on investment.