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1 week ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
Key Takeaways Standard window seats measure 16–24 inches deep, 16–20 inches tall, and 3–8 feet wide. Measure your space and think about storage needs; bay windows need deeper seats, while hallways require narrower options. Installation costs range from $200–$500 for DIY benches to $1,500–$2,500+ for custom built-ins with storage. Looking to add a window seat to your home? A well-built window seat can give your home a cozy reading nook and provide extra storage.
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1 week ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
Key Takeaways Laminated glass windows stay intact if they break, providing superior safety, energy performance, and noise reduction. Tempered glass windows are more affordable and impact-resistant. Most homes benefit from using both types strategically — laminated for exterior security and tempered for interior safety, such as in bathrooms. The type of window glass you pick affects factors such as your safety and monthly energy bills.
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1 week ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
Key Takeaways Standard sliding window sizes range from 36 x 24 inches to 84 x 60 inches. Consider room dimensions, local building codes, and light and ventilation needs when choosing a size. DIY works for simple replacements, while pro installation is best for new openings or large windows. Sliding windows are a smart, space-saving option that brings in natural light and fresh air without the swing clearance traditional windows need.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
The sun provides more energy to the Earth in one hour than the worldwide human population uses in an entire year. Solar power holds tremendous potential to transform how we energize our homes, workplaces, and beyond. Yet questions remain about the affordability, efficiency, storage capacity, and long-term reliability of solar technology. To gain clarity, let’s explore some key statistics shaping the solar sector as we approach 2024 and the years ahead.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Amy DeYoung |Jonathon Jachura
Hiring a professional, licensed plumber is strongly recommended for any major home plumbing project or repair. Knowing how to find qualified plumbers in your area and what to look for during the hiring process will ensure you get quality work done safely and correctly. Keep reading for my tips and tricks on how to hire a qualified plumber for your home. For everyday drips and clogs, you can save the cost of a plumber by doing the work yourself.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Lee Merrill |Jonathon Jachura
Before the advent of prefabricated wallboard (drywall) in the 1940s, plaster was the material of choice for interior walls and ceilings in American homes. Portland cement plaster was painstakingly hand-troweled onto wood slats (lathing) nailed to the wall and ceiling framing. The excess plaster that dries behind and around the lath is referred to as the key — essentially locking the plaster to the lath.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
Wood flooring is a preferred choice for many homeowners, serving as a valuable investment that adds a beautiful, timeless element to your home. It’s durable and lasts for years, making it an excellent long-term flooring solution and worthwhile home improvement. This flooring material comes in two primary options: solid wood and engineered wood. Solid wood is exactly what the name implies, whereas engineered wood has a thin layer of real wood atop various core materials.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
When boosting a home’s curb appeal, the roof often gets overlooked. But dimensional shingles offer a way to add dramatic flair to your home’s exterior without sacrificing durability or longevity. These shingles provide depth and character to a roof, setting it apart from the traditional asphalt shingle look. But are they the right choice for every home? This article will explore the pros and cons of dimensional shingles, helping you decide if they’re the perfect fit for your roofing needs.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Lora Novak |Jonathon Jachura
Pier and beam foundations were standard in older homes until the 1950s. These foundations were the best option for new homes until concrete slabs became slightly more affordable. So, if you live in an older home (especially in wet areas prone to flooding), your home might sit atop a pier and beam foundation. Over time, these foundations wear out, leading to various issues throughout your home. While repairing these foundations is usually doable, there are a few exceptions.
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1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura
In today’s consumer-driven world, many homeowners find themselves drowning in possessions. The rise of fast fashion, “fast furniture,” and wasteful habits have led to overwhelming clutter in American homes. Decluttering has many benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to making your home feel new. Follow our guide below (or check out our printable PDF) to declutter your home room by room, using our practical tips and strategies to simplify your living spaces.
