Home improvements that typically cost less than the average tax refund and can be completed quickly include adding a kitchen island; painting a house; adding a tile backsplash; replacing bathroom amenities such as cabinets, sinks, and fixtures; installing wainscoting, and upgrading a sump pump. Learn about home improvement projects that can be completed with a tax refund.
Quartz and Corian are popular materials for kitchen countertops, and both materials are similar in cost, nonporous, and highly resistant to stains and germs as well as durable, attractive, and easy to clean. However, there are distinct differences between the two materials in terms of heat and scratch resistance and maintenance. Learn about advantages and disadvantages of quartz versus Corian kitchen countertops.
Quartz and marble are among the most popular materials for kitchen and bathroom countertops. However, there are distinct differences between the two materials, such as marble being a natural stone while quartz is a manufactured stone, and quartz is more durable and less porous than marble, making it less susceptible to damage and wear. Learn about advantages and disadvantages of marble versus quartz countertops.
Bathroom paint colors can set a tone and mood for a space in a home that gets heavy use. Regardless of the paint color, it’s best to use a semi-gloss finish paint, as this type of paint works best in high-moisture environments, is easy to clean, and isn’t impacted by the occasional splash of water. Learn about bathroom paint ideas for updating your basement bathroom.
Granite is one of the toughest natural stones available, is highly resistant to scratches and chips, and is more affordable than marble - which makes it ideal for bathroom, kitchen, and basement bar countertops. Learn about granite options for bathrooms, kitchens, and basement bars and the benefits of each.
When planning a finished basement project, be sure to consider that basements can be chilly in winter. There are several options for keeping a finished basement comfortable without major renovations. Learn about options for keeping your finished basement warm during colder periods.
A finished basement can increase living space and the value of a home, and when planning a finished basement project, it is important to consider design elements that will be in style over the long term. Learn about design elements to consider and avoid when finishing a basement.
Storing wine correctly will increase its longevity, but there should be more design considerations when planning a wine cellar than practicality. Get design ideas that will improve functionality and aesthetics for your basement wine cellar, including materials, lighting, shelving, and layout.
Bamboo flooring is an eco-friendly wood flooring option that offers a unique look, durability, accepts stain like hardwood, and presents a modern look. Installation costs for bamboo flooring range between $1,500-$15,000 with a national average of $6,000, which calculates to $5-$15 per square foot, including labor and materials. The benefits of using bamboo flooring are many, including ease of installation, durability, it's low maintenance, and it's moisture, mold, and mildew resistant. Learn about the benefits of bamboo flooring and factors that could impact the project cost.
The water closet - a small, closed room containing a toilet that is part of the bathroom - has been reintroduced in modern-day bathroom design. The benefits of a water closet are additional privacy when multiple people are using the bathroom and improved hygiene as having a toilet in an enclosed space prevents particles from spreading when the toilet is flushed. Learn more about the water closet and why it is popular in modern bathroom designs.