Chicago winters are brutal to homes, and smart homeowners are preparing in advance to help avoid costly repairs. “Take preventative action,” says Jeff Hester, vice president of Hester Painting & Decorating. “A little effort now will save you time and money.” Hester suggests homeowners inspect the five following “hot spots” before the first snow hits […]
This year, resolve to get your home in the best condition yet. These resolutions, developed by Northfield-based Orren Pickell Building Group, will make your home safer, greener and more luxurious in 2014. Some you can accomplish on your own, while others will take a reliable professional team. Here are six resolutions to get you started: 1. Ready the fireplace. […]
Winter is just around the corner, which means higher gas and electric bills is also quickly approaching. Even though most gas users pay an average of $160 a month, there are a few things you can do to help lower your heating costs as the temperature drops. 1. Calculator and Lower Energy Use. Nicor Gas […]
Summer after summer homeowners ask me what they can do around their homes to help save money. While there are many projects that can be done, I think quick projects are best during the summertime so that you can get out and enjoy your weekends! You’d be surprised how much money you can save with […]
It’s summer outdoor entertainment season and people want their homes to look spic and span for outdoor parties. Here are some tips to make your house gleam before hosting an occasion outside. 1. Clean! Jeff Hester of Skokie’s Hester Painting and Decorating suggests attaching a low-pressure power washer to your garden hose to clean off […]
The snow is gone, and warmer weather is almost here to stay. Here’s a list of the 6 things that need to get done (not all by you) as you transition your house from winter to spring. Wash the windows. Wipe away the grime inside and out and let that sun shine in. Unless […]
In meteorological terms, spring has sprung. And along with it, so has your roof–a leak, that is. Once the snow melts and the ground softens, a lot of home repair issues quickly come to light. According to experts at HGTV.com, spring is the time to perform routine maintenance and repairs, such as checking brickwork and […]
