Repairs And Home Improvements

What Is a Lunette Window?

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700

If you’ve spent any time gawking at old houses or wandering through European cathedrals, you’ve probably seen one without even realizing it. The graceful half-moon of glass tucked above a grand doorway. The curved opening spilling light into an otherwise dim hall. That, my friends, is a lunette window. The term comes from the French […]

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The One-Weekend Fall Home Maintenance Sprint

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Every season has a checklist of things to do to keep your house in tip top shape and the fall checklist is one of the most important to get you prepped for cooler weather. This post will give you a couple easy to do items that are absolute must-do's before winter sets in.

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My Secret Weapon Nail Filler

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Last week I posted on using caulk to fill nail holes because it’s a question that has come up often. To be honest, it’s something I’m tempted to do as well because it’s just so dang easy, but often the easy way isn’t the best way. In fact, it rarely is. This week I felt […]

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Should You Use Caulk to Fill Nail Holes?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Every once in a while, I’ll walk into a house and see miles of fresh trim dotted with little moonscape craters where someone tried to hide nail holes with caulk. It’s a look I call “the constellation effect.” You meant to make the trim perfect; instead, you ended up with a field of dimples that […]

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Bronze vs Coppered Nails: When to Use Each

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This is a question that has been coming up often for me lately. I’m assuming it’s because the fall is weatherstripping season when it comes to windows and doors. Makes sense. Nobody wants a drafty house in the winter. When you’re installing metal weatherstripping it invariably involves nailing it in place rather than the cheapo […]

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What to Do About a Window in a Shower

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

As someone who works on historic homes built before WWII it’s a question I have gotten many times. “What should I do about that old wood window in a shower?” It seems crazy that builders would have put a window in the shower. Were they a bunch of exhibitionists showing their “goods” to the neighbors? […]

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The Dumbwaiter: A Unique History

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

If your house has a tiny elevator hiding behind a knee-high door, congratulations—you’ve got a built-in butler who works for peanuts. Today we’ll trace where dumbwaiters came from, how they actually work, why they vanished from houses by the mid-century. These unique home features that were the rage of the Gilded-Age (i’m watching the HBO […]

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Round vs. Flat Paint Brushes: Which Is Best?

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Picture this: you’re standing in the paint aisle, staring down a wall of brushes like a cowboy in a spaghetti western. On the left, the flats—wide, angled, sleek. On the right, the rounds—stubby, old-world, looking like they should come with a glass of Chianti. You pick one up, feel the weight, and suddenly you realize… […]

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How Much Does a Baseboard Radiator Cost?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:56:12 -0700

Baseboard radiators can cost $200–$1,200 per unit, primarily depending on the type of heating system and the size of your home.

The post How Much Does a Baseboard Radiator Cost? appeared first on Today's Homeowner.

Renovating Isn’t Getting Cheaper: How Material Costs Are Climbing in 2025

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:55:21 -0700

Renovating in 2025? We analyzed BLS PPI data to identify which materials are experiencing the largest price increases and what you can do to stay on budget.

The post Renovating Isn’t Getting Cheaper: How Material Costs Are Climbing in 2025 appeared first on Today's Homeowner.

How To Budget for AC Replacement

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 05:15:21 -0700

Learn how to budget for AC replacement, including considering extra expenses and looking into financing and rebates.

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How Much Does a Whole-House Fan Cost?

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 05:00:19 -0700

Whole-house fans typically cost $900–$2,400. These fans work best in low-humidity climates and pair well with ACs for all-day cooling.

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How To Compare Financing Offers for HVAC Installation

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:19:36 -0700

Wondering how to compare financing offers for HVAC installation? Review types, terms, and interest rates. Watch out for red flags such as hidden fees.

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How Much Does an Attic Air Conditioner Cost?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:59:21 -0700

Attic air conditioners cost between $100 and $5,000 typically, depending on whether you choose a window AC, portable AC, or a mini-split.

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Window Company Scams To Avoid: Red Flags and Smart Hiring Tips

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:32:00 -0700

Common window company scams to avoid include high-pressure sales tactics and large upfront payments. Check licenses and insurance before committing.

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How To Replace Baseboard Heating Covers in 6 Easy Steps

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:01:22 -0700

Learn how to replace baseboard heating covers seamlessly and which cover material, design, and style to choose for your home.

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How To Build a Radiator Cover: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:53:59 -0700

Radiator covers add shelf space, protect kids and pets from burns, and help radiators blend into your home’s decor. Here’s how to build a radiator cover.

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How To Vet HVAC Contractors: Tips To Find a Reliable Pro

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:59:45 -0700

Wondering how to vet HVAC contractors? Look for NATE certification, state licensing, and insurance. Avoid contractors who won’t provide references.

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How To Childproof Windows: Locks, Guards, and Safety Tips

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:52:51 -0700

Wondering how to childproof the windows in your home? Methods include window guards, shatter-resistant film, and cordless blinds.

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What Is Heat Pump Defrost Mode? How It Works and When To Worry

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 08:36:50 -0700

Is your heat pump blowing cold air? This is a normal part of the heat pump defrost mode, which keeps your heat pump frost-free during the winter.

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