Archive for Saving

Midwest Has You Covered

Midwest Has You Covered

May 3, 2013 No Comments

Your kitchen counter top is the most used surface in your home and must stand the everyday wear and tear of cooking, baking and clean-up. When it comes to your counter tops, having the best is what Midwest Cabinet and Counter wants for you. Founded in 1951, Midwest Cabinet and Counter has been a manufacturer ...

Save a Lot of Green

Save a Lot of Green

May 3, 2013 No Comments

Superior in its performance, green in its manufacturing, and perfect for any residential or commercial construction, Nu-Wool Premium Cellulose Insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as forty percent.  Many utility companies and the government are offering rebates for making improvements to your home that decrease energy use and consumption. If you ...

It’s All About You

It’s All About You

May 1, 2013 No Comments

You do not live a cookie-cutter life. You’re an individual with your own views. You know exactly what you value, what makes you unique, what inspires you. You’ve spent years defining your style, your way. You see things differently — as you should. So when it comes to aesthetics, you have a definite idea of ...

No Limits

No Limits

April 29, 2013 No Comments

Medical supplies are continually rising in price. Many times, it is also hard to determine where to find the best quality products that will help your medical supply needs. Don’t fear! With With Wright & Filippis, you will be able to find the medical supplies and/or equipment that is right for you. They provide: prosthetics, ...

Get Your Business Out There

Get Your Business Out There

April 22, 2013 No Comments

Starting your own business can be tough enough. When it comes to spreading the word about your company, it can be even harder. All Seasons Communications knows the challenges you face as a small business and they aren’t afraid to help you take yours and make it into the business you’ve always dreamed. With their ...

Keep the Money Coming

Keep the Money Coming

April 22, 2013 No Comments

Do you happen to own your own company? If so, you already know that paying your employees is a must if you hope to keep them committed and enthusiastic! However, you also know that doing payroll is not always fun or easy. There’s the accounting AND staying up to date on all the legal aspects ...

New Home, New Windows

New Home, New Windows

April 22, 2013 No Comments

Many times, windows can literally define a home, connecting the outside and inside. When it comes to your new home, don’t “settle” when making your window selection.  Pullum Window Corporation specializes in windows for new residential structures. Looking at your blueprints, they will walk through your specifications for the home, get a sense for your ...

Have Your Home Taken Care of All Year-Long

Have Your Home Taken Care of All Year-Long

April 22, 2013 No Comments

Do you live in a neighborhood with an active home owner’s association (HOA)? Maybe you are part of a condominium owners association. If so, your association probably has a lot to take care of — including common area maintenance. LandArc Contracting Services is a primary service provider for hundreds of commercial and residential properties offering ...

Make Your Home Energy Efficient

Make Your Home Energy Efficient

April 22, 2013 No Comments

In a tough economy, the last thing you want to have are outrageous bills that you have to pay every month. When it comes to energy, there are ways to decrease your home’s usage in order to save you money.  Tony Van Oyen Builder, Inc. offers homes that are Energy Star labeled, meaning they are ...

Providing Solutions for You

Providing Solutions for You

April 19, 2013 No Comments

Whether you have a brand new small business, or have been in business for years, having a top-notch consulting and financial firm there to help your business might determine whether your company ultimately succeeds or fails. Plante Moran, named Employer of the Year, for the second time, by the International Accounting Bulletin Awards, knows that ...

Get Professional Help With Your Debt

Get Professional Help With Your Debt

April 19, 2013 No Comments

Dealing with debt is one of the hardest things any homeowner may go through. Whether it is a outstanding student loan, credit cards, or a mortgage, having debt can place what feels like a heavy rain cloud over your mind and wallet until it is paid off.  Berger, Ghersi and LaDuke PLC are Certified Public ...

Get a Good Look Outside

Get a Good Look Outside

April 12, 2013 No Comments

Believe it or not, soon flowers will begin to bloom and the trees will bud new leaves. With nature springing up, you’re not going to want to hide behind curtains or poor windows as the sunlight begins to stream in. Locally owned Apel Building Products Inc. has Marvin brand windows and doors, available in eighteen ...

Keep Outside Air, Well … Outside

Keep Outside Air, Well … Outside

April 12, 2013 No Comments

Whether you are in an older home or a new house, having it properly insulated can make the difference between how much cash is taken from your wallet and how comfortable you are in your own home.  Novi Insulation Inc. knows how important it is to have your home properly inspected and insulated to save ...

Speed Off With Rewards

Speed Off With Rewards

April 7, 2013 No Comments

With gas prices continuing to rise, you never know when your pocketbook will get a break! With Speedy Rewards from Speedway, every time you use your rewards card to purchase gas, candy bars, drinks and more, you earn points towards free fuel, food, merchandise and gift cards. When you visit any Speedway, you will earn ...

Lower Your Energy Bills With These Money Saving Ideas

Lower Your Energy Bills With These Money Saving Ideas

April 7, 2013 No Comments

Have you had an energy company find ways to help you save money? Click on this link to DTE Energy to see some of the ways they are helping their customers find ways to lower their energy bills and save money. You may even be asking yourself: “Why would DTE Energy want to do that?”  ...

Make It Marble

Make It Marble

April 4, 2013 No Comments

Picking the right counter tops can be a tough decision, especially if your budget isn’t large enough to afford granite counter tops in the kitchen and/or the bathrooms. But granite isn’t the only stone that provides an attractive and high-quality finish. Marble is also a beautiful stone that can go with all home décor as ...

Time to Get Working!

Time to Get Working!

April 3, 2013 No Comments

The weather is getting better and it is starting to warm up, which means it’s time to get outside and start those home improvement projects.  The warmer weather will help any project that you are going to be working on that involves concrete of some kind. But before you start, check out South Monroe Block ...

There When You Need a Hand

There When You Need a Hand

April 3, 2013 No Comments

Whether you have gone through a disaster in the past, are in one now or are concerned about the future, Statewide Disaster Restoration is there to help.  As an industry leader in both residential fire and water damage clean up and restoration, Statewide has the resources to quickly get your home  back to normal as ...

Make Your Bathroom a Place You Want to Be

Make Your Bathroom a Place You Want to Be

April 1, 2013 No Comments

Bathrooms, particularly master baths,  have the potential to be one of the most attractive rooms in your home. Achieving this requires designing it correctly and taking the time and energy to make the design a reality. At Kurtis Kitchen and Bath Centers, you can get the products you need to “make-over” your bathroom yourself or ...

They Have Everything You “Wood” Need

They Have Everything You “Wood” Need

April 1, 2013 No Comments

Did you know that wood is one of the world’s most used natural resources? Wood is also one of the most “green” building products as it circulates energy savings throughout its lifetime with lower greenhouse gas emissions, lower air pollution, lower water pollution, and lower solid waste by-products.  Iverson’s Lumber Company offers a wide selection of ...

Protect the Beauty and Longevity of Your Windows

Protect the Beauty and Longevity of Your Windows

March 30, 2013 No Comments

As the warm weather starts to open the buds on the trees, raise flowers from the dirt and make plants bloom and blossom, you want to be able to see God’s beauty clearly from every room in your house. Andersen Windows and Doors loves to provide homeowners with new windows giving a perfect view of ...

What’s on Your Roof?

What’s on Your Roof?

March 29, 2013 No Comments

As a homeowner, I bet you are knowledgeable about what goes into your home. But do you know what is on the top of it? Of course a roof, gutters, and a chimney comes to mind, but do you really know how up-to-date and sturdy it all is?  Sun Home Improvement Company has the licensing ...

Customize Your Closet

Customize Your Closet

March 29, 2013 No Comments

When you walk into your bedroom closet what do you see? At California Closets, they see the potential for a disorganized closet to be organized, hidden clothes to be seen, and hard to reach shoes readily available and within your sight and your grasp.  As a franchise showroom located in Birmingham, Michigan, they display many ...

Step Your Way to the Top

Step Your Way to the Top

March 28, 2013 No Comments

If your home is like most, it probably has a staircase of some type. Over time, your stairs can become worn out, they can possibly rot and may ultimately not be safe for you or your family.  ASA Builders Supply has all you need to have the best staircase for your home. From traditional wood ...

Surrender Your House to a Beautiful Design

Surrender Your House to a Beautiful Design

March 28, 2013 No Comments

Everyone has a vision of what they want in their dream home. But making the picture in your mind come to life through a drawing rarely comes out the way you thought it would. TK Design & Associates can help you create your dream home through their professional house rendering service and design expertise.  Recently ...

Make Your Home A Home for A Lifetime

Make Your Home A Home for A Lifetime

March 25, 2013 No Comments

As we (or our parents) begin to age, we have to determine what we will do when it comes time to decide whether we/they should stay in a house or move to a retirement facility.  Elder Living Construction in Farmington Hills, Michigan is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) remodeling company which means they are the ...

What’s Better Than a Well-Organized Garage?

What’s Better Than a Well-Organized Garage?

March 25, 2013 No Comments

Do you see your garage as just a place for your yard tools and to park your car? For many, the garage is the first part of the house that they see when they arrive home after a long day at work. Think about how nice it would be to pull into an attractive, well-organized ...

Give Your Interiors a Face Lift

Give Your Interiors a Face Lift

March 25, 2013 No Comments

Painting your home can take a lot of time, energy — and well — paint. When it comes to professional quality work and minimal effort on your part, having the interior of your home completely painted from the baseboards to the crown molding is what Pitters Painting does best.  Providing interior and exterior painting, they ...

Make Your Outdoor Space Functional Again

Make Your Outdoor Space Functional Again

March 25, 2013 No Comments

Based in Howell, Michigan, Paulson’s Construction knows that your outdoor space is just as important as the indoors. From porches to decks and patios to pergolas — Paulson’s wants to create wonderful spaces for you to enjoy. Paulson’s uses a decking product called “Trex Transcend” which is an alternative wood decking that does not include ...

Green Business Opportunity — Home Energy Audit Franchise

Green Business Opportunity — Home Energy Audit Franchise

March 25, 2013 No Comments

The building performance industry is moving toward whole home performance contracting.  Homeowners and small commercial business owners are looking for one point of contact to deal with all their home/building performance needs.  Home Energy Team provides everything you need to set up and run a successful home energy audit franchise business.  Sure, you could do it ...

Make Sure Your Home Passes the Test

Make Sure Your Home Passes the Test

March 21, 2013 No Comments

Whether you are buying a newly built home, an existing home, or building your home, it is critical to get an inspection before money is out-of-your-hands and your signature is on the bottom line.  Atlas Construction has licensed builders and inspectors who can provide a plethora of official inspections including general home inspections and lead ...

Light Up Your Home

Light Up Your Home

March 21, 2013 No Comments

Do you have a burned out light bulb somewhere in your house? Before you replace it, read this.  Energy-saving products are the hot thing on the market because who wouldn’t want to save money with small changes? Lighting Resources of Michigan offer two types of lighting options that brighten your space, cut your electricity use, ...

Add Some Heat to Your Water

Add Some Heat to Your Water

March 21, 2013 No Comments

No one wants to take a lukewarm shower every day, especially in the winter. Luckily, we have products like hot water heaters and companies that specialize in them like FLAME Heating, Cooling and Electrical. Offering forty or fifty gallon water heaters from the major water heater manufacturer, Bradford White, there is no shortage of options ...

If They Build It, You Will Come

If They Build It, You Will Come

March 21, 2013 No Comments

Building a home for a potential homeowner is serious business. With a mission to build a personal relationship with their clients before, during and after building their home, Echelon Homes works to provide the direct link of communication that you, the homeowner, should have with your builder.  With six different floor plans, finding YOUR perfect ...

Your Lawn is Thirsty, Give it a Drink

Your Lawn is Thirsty, Give it a Drink

March 19, 2013 No Comments

When it comes to giving your lawn the proper hydration to keep it green from spring to fall, means having an irrigation system that works seamlessly with nature’s own sprinkling “system.” The trick is having your irrigation system running at its highest efficiency. D. A. Alexander and Company offers the Hunter Solar Sync Sensor and the ...

Get that Chip Repaired … Now!

Get that Chip Repaired … Now!

March 19, 2013 No Comments

It can happen at any moment. You’re driving and you see a small harmless pebble shoot from someone’s tire into your windshield causing a small insignificant crack that grows several inches day after day, in all directions.  Although we can’t control a flying pebble and its impact with our windshield, we can control what happens ...

Save Your Stone

Save Your Stone

March 19, 2013 No Comments

  The Stone Shop in Rochester Hills, Michigan is overflowing with stone products for any part of your home. Whether you are using stone for siding, a fireplace, accents in the bathroom, kitchen, den, or anywhere else, The Stone Shop has plenty of possibilities from which to choose.  Not only do they have a wide ...

Harness the Powers of the Earth

Harness the Powers of the Earth

March 14, 2013 No Comments

It has long been recognized that the earth holds a great deal of potential for heating and cooling. In very early times, people lived in caves because the constant temperature of the earth kept them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Now you can get the same advantages in your home, regardless ...

Turn Your Laundry Green

Turn Your Laundry Green

March 14, 2013 No Comments

While St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching, that is not what this blog post is about. When it comes to saving some green in your wallet, your laundry may be a great first place to start.  Wash Multifamily Laundry Systems provides coin operated washers and dryers for apartments and colleges and universities. As such, they ...

Protect Yourself from High Energy Costs

Protect Yourself from High Energy Costs

March 14, 2013 No Comments

Every year, homeowners lose hundreds of dollars in high energy costs because of poor insulation. Don’t be one of those homeowners. Ace and Sons Insulation, Inc. recommends getting cellulose insulation. Cellulose insulation is made of natural wood fibers which help reduce cold drafts,  give your house the proper warmth or cooling efficiency, while protecting against ...

Get Your Cook On

Get Your Cook On

March 14, 2013 No Comments

Whirlpool knows how important it is to have the right appliances to help make your house a home. In the kitchen, this is especially important because we depend on our appliances to help prepare family meals. From refrigerators to free standing stoves, finding the right set of appliances that fit your home and lifestyle is ...

Slide into Organizing

Slide into Organizing

March 13, 2013 No Comments

It can be easy to hide our biggest kitchen organization disasters behind cupboard or pantry doors. Traditional shelves typically add to the disorganization, as items continually get pushed to the back to never be seen again.  ShelfGenie offers a convenient way to avoid hidden disorganization. With pull-out shelving, it is easy for you to see ...

Pick Out the Floor that Fits You

Pick Out the Floor that Fits You

March 11, 2013 No Comments

Your floor should not only reflect the design of your house but it should also represent you and your lifestyle as well. With your floors being the most, well-used surface in your home, making sure to get quality flooring should be at the top of your home’s wish list. Beckwith Floors, a company that has ...

Illuminate Your Space

Illuminate Your Space

March 11, 2013 No Comments

For seventy years, Ray Lighting Centers has provided lights for all homes and businesses across southeastern Michigan. But no light can shine brighter or be more noticeable than hanging pendant lights. With styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, Ray Lighting offers you endless options when it comes to choosing overhead lighting for use in your ...

Don’t Stress, Get Tax Services

Don’t Stress, Get Tax Services

March 11, 2013 No Comments

With the dreaded April 15 tax deadline fast approaching, getting your taxes done quickly and conveniently probably seems like a good idea right now. More importantly, you don’t have to do your taxes alone! Jenkins, Magnus, Volk and Carroll CPA’s offer their tax services to individuals, corporations, partnerships, LLCs and LLPs, estates, trusts and gifts, ...

Keep Weather and Nature OUTSIDE Your Door

Keep Weather and Nature OUTSIDE Your Door

March 11, 2013 No Comments

Since 1950, Weather King Windows and Doors Inc. has understood how important doors are to both the safety and look of your home, whether in front or back. Serving the Midwest, Weather King offers steel entry doors featuring either steel or wood edges, fiberglass entry doors, vinyl sliding doors and aluminum storm doors. Each style ...

Pick the Right Carpet

Pick the Right Carpet

March 11, 2013 No Comments

When you buy or build a home, flooring is one of the most important features that you should spend some time thinking about. When buying carpet for your home, making the right decision can be the hardest. At American Carpet, finding the right carpet is easy once you know what to look for, such as ...

Get a Deck that Will Last

Get a Deck that Will Last

March 9, 2013 No Comments

With warmer weather heading our way, it’s time to think about your deck and what kind of maintenance it may need. If you have a wooden deck, you might need to stain or reseal it and/or power wash all of the grime out of it that was left from the fall and winter months. You ...

Take Cleaning to a Whole New Level

Take Cleaning to a Whole New Level

March 9, 2013 No Comments

Cleaning — especially vacuuming — is rarely that much fun. Not only are vacuums typically heavy to carry up and down stairs, they are also bulky and difficult to store. A central vacuuming system is a great innovation that replaces your old vacuum cleaner and is literally attached to the heart of your home. Zimm’s ...

Spruce Up Your Siding

Spruce Up Your Siding

March 8, 2013 No Comments

The siding on a home takes a beating from cold, wet, dry and sunny weather conditions — all chipping away at paint, which may end up needing to be repainted frequently.  Because weather can take such a toll on the outside of your home, James Hardie offers what they call “ColorPlus Technology.” Using Hardie siding, ...

Create a Comfortable Outdoor Living Space

Create a Comfortable Outdoor Living Space

March 8, 2013 No Comments

Summer will be here before you know it and that means it will finally be time to live outdoors again. General Shale has great outdoor living kits that you can install in your backyard to create a comfortable and inviting outdoor space. They offer fire pits, water features, wood fire ovens, garden columns, garden benches, ...

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint by Remodeling

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint by Remodeling

March 5, 2013 No Comments

With a larger push to become a more eco-friendly industry, home builders and remodelers are making headway in finding new ways to provide homeowners with greener options to install in the home. Although they might be considered eco-friendly, you won’t be able to tell the difference when it comes to the look and quality of ...

Tile Here … Tile There … Tile Everywhere!

Tile Here … Tile There … Tile Everywhere!

March 5, 2013 No Comments

Take a look around your house. Chances are you might see some tile. They’re on the kitchen back splash, on the bathroom floor, the shower, and the counter tops, just to name a few. But they are there for a reason. Not only do they add to the décor of the space, they are very ...

Glass Blocks … A Functional Design Feature!

Glass Blocks … A Functional Design Feature!

March 5, 2013 No Comments

I’ve written in other posts about the beauty that windows provide in a home. However, we should remain aware that there are areas of the home where too much of a good thing can be a problem. Case-in-point, basement windows. Intruders like basement windows because they’re easy to break or pry open. Moreover, basement windows ...

Windows Bring Light to the Home

Windows Bring Light to the Home

March 5, 2013 No Comments

What is a home without windows? Dark … obviously. No matter where you live, windows are a must when building a home. But picking the best windows to keep you and your family comfortable in all seasons is a critical decision you need to make. Beyond their basic functionality,  each window style has a different ...

You Don’t Have to Create Your Dream Kitchen Alone

You Don’t Have to Create Your Dream Kitchen Alone

March 5, 2013 No Comments

Having a gorgeous kitchen is a dream for most homeowners, but getting that “kitchen of your dreams” can sometimes be elusive. However, with help from Wholesale Builder Supply, designing a kitchen can be as easy as four steps. When Wholesale Builder Supply helps design and install a dream kitchen, they will gather information such as: ...

Redecorate Your Rooms … Professionally!

Redecorate Your Rooms … Professionally!

February 28, 2013 No Comments

If you’re sick and tired of the room that has looked the same since you’ve moved in — and don’t know or don’t have the budget to redecorate it — then this may be your dream come true. Your Space Refined is an interior decorating company located in Rochester, Michigan and they offer something called ...

Get Rid of Those Rodents of Unusual Size

Get Rid of Those Rodents of Unusual Size

February 28, 2013 No Comments

As we’re nearing the end of winter, or at least we hope so, we’ll soon embark upon spring time when rodents and bugs begin to appear everywhere. So before those ants come marching in, make sure to have your house properly protected. Eradico Services, in Michigan, are experts when it comes to latest products and ...

Accessible for All

Accessible for All

February 27, 2013 No Comments

Specializing in making your home more accessible for you or your loved ones is what Handicapped Home Construction is all about. As certified aging in place (CAPS) contractors, Handicapped Home Construction wants to do everything they can to help make living life easier in all aspects of the home. The most important room in any ...

Spruce Up Your Home!

Spruce Up Your Home!

February 26, 2013 No Comments

Remodeling — or just updating any part of your home — requires a lot of work and decision making in order to put together a well-designed solution that fits the needs of you and your family. For some help in coming up with ideas, plan to check-out one of the 1,300 Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and ...

No Disaster is Too Big

No Disaster is Too Big

February 26, 2013 No Comments

Every year there seems to be a large disaster that affects some part of our country. Each time, people are left to clean up their homes after a flood or fire rips through it. That’s the toughest part. Putting your home back together after a disaster tears it apart. However, there are companies out there ...

Delivering Balanced Light … Day or Night!

Delivering Balanced Light … Day or Night!

February 25, 2013 No Comments

Did you know that you can have solar lights in your own home? Did you also know that you don’t need any large solar panels on your roof or outside in your yard to do so? The Solar Source Company provides something called Solartube Smart LED System. This system involves a small, daylight-capturing dome that ...

Get A Perfect Match Every Time!

Get A Perfect Match Every Time!

February 25, 2013 No Comments

Painting windows and doors is a project that requires a lot of patience and attention to detail. As a privately-owned, family business, WindowPro offers professional painting and staining services for all windows and doors that they install. They purposely don’t pre-paint or pre-stain their products so that they can help match the specific and individual ...

Use Spray Insulation in Your Pole Barn … Who Knew!

Use Spray Insulation in Your Pole Barn … Who Knew!

February 25, 2013 No Comments

Pole barns are well-known throughout the Midwest as an additional garage-like structure. They can be used for storage, a workshop, or even a garage band. However, being out in the pole barn in the cold winter or hot summer is not always pleasant. FoamRite, a foam insulation company in Michigan, specializes in closed-cell spray foam ...

Make Your Dream Home a Reality

Make Your Dream Home a Reality

February 21, 2013 No Comments

If you have ever watched Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, you might recognize Lombardo Homes as the builder of the home in Michigan that broke the record for the fastest home ever built on the show. Lombardo Homes in Shelby Township, Michigan, had been helping people attain and build their dream homes for over 50 years. ...

Save Money and Still Get Countertops That Will Last

Save Money and Still Get Countertops That Will Last

February 18, 2013 No Comments

It seems like every home-related TV show shows people buying granite counter tops. Although they have a nice, high-end look, it comes at a price! But not all of us can afford granite. When it comes to these surfaces, especially kitchen counter tops, cost-effective durability should be just as important as its look and feel. ...

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

February 18, 2013 No Comments

Hardwood floors sure do take a beating. So when it comes to finding quality flooring, don’t look any further than bamboo flooring. That’s right, bamboo flooring. Known for being eco-friendly, bamboo flooring is also sustainable, biodegradable, and healthier in regards to keeping allergens, poor air quality and off-gassing at bay. According to Riemer Floors in ...

There When You Need a Helping Hand

There When You Need a Helping Hand

February 15, 2013 No Comments

Not everyone knows how to fix things in their home and that’s okay. When it comes to doing handyman work around the inside or outside of the house, you can: try to figure it out by researching on the internet, asking someone to help, or hiring someone to do it right the first time! Express ...

Waterproof Your Basement … Before It’s Too Late!

Waterproof Your Basement … Before It’s Too Late!

February 15, 2013 No Comments

With all of the melting snow and springtime torrential rain, keeping your basement dry should be a top priority. Water, under pressure, can seep through cracks in the wall and floor. These cracks are caused by the expansion and contraction of the concrete floor, basement walls made of poured concrete or cement blocks or concrete foundation. The water ...

Give a New Look to Your Bathroom

Give a New Look to Your Bathroom

February 15, 2013 No Comments

Sometimes a simple change, like a new fixture or a new vanity can completely invigorate a bathroom. I’ve done my fair share of remodeling our bathrooms but nothing like replacing the cabinets. When remodeling, it is important to remember that the cabinets are an anchor to a great looking bathroom. So don’t undercut yourself by ...

Get the Help You Need with Tax Planning

Get the Help You Need with Tax Planning

February 14, 2013 No Comments

With all of the recent changes to our tax code, doing taxes this year may be more difficult than it has been in years past. But never fear, The Moss Financial Group in Birmingham, Michigan has seasoned professionals and helpful online resources to help with careful planning throughout the year so that you can reduce ...

Save On Heating Costs This Winter!

Save On Heating Costs This Winter!

February 5, 2013 No Comments

Studies have shown that geothermal is by far the most effective way to heat your home. By taking advantage of the energy stored beneath the surface of the Earth, you can heat your home up to five times more efficiently than a gas furnace alone. This translates directly into reduced energy bills every month! Since ...

Designing Made Easy

Designing Made Easy

February 5, 2013 No Comments

A couple of weeks ago, my wife went shopping and found a light-yellow colored hutch for our living room. During the past several years, she has decorated with reds, greens, dark browns — in a lodge-type motif that included bears, moose and birds. More recently she has decided to change to a more cottage/nature-style look ...

Home Building Technology: Insulated Concrete Forms

Home Building Technology: Insulated Concrete Forms

December 26, 2012 No Comments

I would not be surprised to find out that many Americans have never thought of — or furthermore even considered — living in a house made of concrete. Until a few years ago, I can honestly say that I was also one of them. Now your first thought may be: “Hey, my basement walls are ...

Winter is Near … Get a Home Energy Audit!

Winter is Near … Get a Home Energy Audit!

November 13, 2012 No Comments

Typically, after the price of a home (land and structure), the one of the highest costs for a family can be the amount paid each month for energy. These likely includes energy (electric, gas, oil, etc.) used for lighting, heating, cooling, cooking, water, appliances, and entertainment devices. Many homes that are five (5) years and ...

Save Money … and Maybe Find a New Career at the Same Time!

Save Money … and Maybe Find a New Career at the Same Time!

November 9, 2012 No Comments

Autumn is quickly progressing to winter in many parts of the country, including the upper Midwest. For many of us, we live in homes constructed before 1980 and face shorter days and longer nights filled with cold air outside … and sometimes a feeling of “draftiness” on the inside. Unfortunately, this also leads to higher ...

Outdoor Living Year Around: Patio Heaters

Outdoor Living Year Around: Patio Heaters

October 1, 2012 1 Comment

In mid-April, I wrote a blog post on Outdoor Living as it related to patios and lighting ambiance. By the number of visitors, it is clear that outdoor living — and the concept of “stay-cations” in our current world of high energy prices — has many homeowners interested in making their patios a greater part ...

Save Money by Restoring Your Patio Furniture

Save Money by Restoring Your Patio Furniture

September 25, 2012 No Comments

This morning, I decided to investigate what to do with patio furniture that is weathered and faded but not necessarily ready for the landfill. It is now officially Autumn here in the Midwest and getting ready for the eventual reality of snow means taking care of our outdoor patio furniture for the year. As I ...

Is Your Ductwork Costing You Money?

Is Your Ductwork Costing You Money?

August 14, 2012 No Comments

Last night, I was watching a TV program as the host was inspecting a house for a client. Among other things, they showed how a camera system could be used to visually inspect ductwork that channels airflow in forced air heating and/or cooling systems within a home. Turns out that there are many more things ...

House Address Plaques are an Instant Way to Add Curb Appeal!

House Address Plaques are an Instant Way to Add Curb Appeal!

August 13, 2012 No Comments

Have you ever considered adding house signs to your exterior for a quick, easy and relatively inexpensive way to increase your home’s curb appeal? Whether it is attached to your house or placed as part of your yard decor, address plaques can provide a unique visual element that sets you apart. Recently, I “Googled” ‘house ...

Kitchen Magic … Adding Style With Countertops!

Kitchen Magic … Adding Style With Countertops!

August 7, 2012 No Comments

For years, laminate counter tops have served as a functional, low-cost alternative for many home owners. However, over time these counter tops – sometimes referred to by their most popular brand name “Formica” counter tops – fell out of favor for the other materials. These included natural products such as granite or stone to manufactured ...

Bathroom Design Trends: Vessel Sinks

Bathroom Design Trends: Vessel Sinks

July 23, 2012 No Comments

Kitchens and bathrooms have traditionally been — and remain today — a great place to invest, either when building a new home or remodeling your current home. Dollars put into these two rooms almost always maintain or even increase their value, even in a challenging economy. This morning, I decided to research a bit on ...

Rain Chains … A Pleasant Surprise!

Rain Chains … A Pleasant Surprise!

July 23, 2012 No Comments

I should file this post under “Pleasant Surprises”. This past weekend, I’m searching online for information regarding chain link fencing as I have a friend Bill who had some sections of fence stolen from a fence installed years ago. As I’m perusing search results, one was for “rain chain link” and I figured it was ...

Customize Your House with a Customized Address Plaque

Customize Your House with a Customized Address Plaque

July 16, 2012 No Comments

While I’ve written about this topic before, I think it is time to mention it again. A simple way to provide a distinctive character to your home can be easily accomplished using a custom address plaque. As you probably are aware by now, I am a fan of the “Google search.” This morning I typed ...

Bathroom Design Features: Stone Sinks

Bathroom Design Features: Stone Sinks

June 29, 2012 No Comments

We have a main floor powder room that is in need of some updating. My wife and I live in Michigan and really enjoy many of the natural features that are found here. In particular, many of the Great Lakes have an overwhelming beauty as waves gently break against shores filled with stones polished smooth ...

Building Industry Association Announces Blue Ribbon Winners in 2012 Parade of Homes

Building Industry Association Announces Blue Ribbon Winners in 2012 Parade of Homes

June 11, 2012 No Comments

The Building Industry Association of Southeastern Michigan (BIA) has announced the winners in its 23rd annual Parade of Homes architectural judging. Parade of Homes is an exhibition of 34 new model, under construction and pre-construction homes and condominiums located throughout southeastern Michigan. The showcase takes place June 1 – 30, 2012. BIA, Bank of America Home ...

Made in America/Built in Michigan: Our First Groundbreaking

Made in America/Built in Michigan: Our First Groundbreaking

June 5, 2012 No Comments

On a sunny Tuesday morning (June 5th) in New Hudson, Michigan, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for the first home being constructed for the Made in America/Built in Michigan initiative. The home is being built by Rick Elkow of Elkow Homes, a building company based in Wixom, Michigan and proud member of the Building Industry ...

Curb Appeal Begins at the Curb … So Does Your Mailbox!

Curb Appeal Begins at the Curb … So Does Your Mailbox!

May 25, 2012 No Comments

“Curb appeal” is a term that seems to be used often today. There are even entire shows on HGTV and DIY Network dedicated to the concept of curb appeal. Typically, these shows focus on the exterior of the home — its paint color, trim work, landscaping, roofing and lighting. Without a doubt, these are all ...

Getting Your Lawn Sprinkler System Up & Running

Getting Your Lawn Sprinkler System Up & Running

May 22, 2012 No Comments

Taking care of my lawn is a labor of love and sometimes a source of frustration. Earlier in my life, taking care of the lawn was a challenge, especially as the days got hotter and the rain stopped falling. Dragging a sprinkler and hose around the yard seemed like a never-ending game of “turn the ...

Creating Jobs & Homes Right Here: Made in America, Built in Michigan

Creating Jobs & Homes Right Here: Made in America, Built in Michigan

May 17, 2012 No Comments

On May 16, 2012, the Building Industry Association of Southeastern Michigan (BIA) announced the launch of Made In America, Built In Michigan – The Red, White and Blueprint for Economic Recovery. The program is a grass roots effort to generate local jobs by working with BIA member companies to build new homes using as many ...

Education Pays!

Education Pays!

May 14, 2012 No Comments

Recently, a renowned national economist noted that while the labor market is improving, high school dropouts aren’t seeing it. For dropouts over 25, the unemployment rate is 13 percent. Meanwhile, it’s just 8.5 percent for high school grads and 4.2 percent for persons with a college degree (Associates degree or higher). Even worse, labor force participation ...

Decorate Using Battery Operated Candles!

Decorate Using Battery Operated Candles!

May 2, 2012 No Comments

In the past few years, battery-operated lights, particularly candles, have become an even better decorating alternative with the introduction of LED technology. The flexibility offered by battery operated LED candles even far surpasses that of first generation of battery candles with their screw-in “Christmas light” bulbs. Probably the best feature is one of safety. LED ...

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

April 24, 2012 No Comments

(Guest Post written by our friend Gladys Fuentes) My son’s best friend from high school just got a professional baseball contract to play out in Texas. My son went to visit him last week with some of their other high school friends as sort of a reunion. Of course my son thought that his friend ...

Outdoor Living – Patio & Lighting Ambiance

Outdoor Living – Patio & Lighting Ambiance

April 17, 2012 No Comments

As gas prices continue to rise, many folks I talk to are considering home improvement projects focused on their backyard. In fact, this trend is growing nationwide and is referred to in some circles as “outdoor living.” I was recently at a Spring Home & Garden Show that highlighted a large number of landscapes and ...

Backyard & Outdoor Living: Furniture

Backyard & Outdoor Living: Furniture

April 13, 2012 No Comments

Let me tell you about a company from Spring, Texas … Terra Bound Solutions. I came across their website as I was cruising the internet looking for some backyard furniture that was a bit more stylish than I have now. I’ve always enjoyed relaxing in Adirondack chairs, especially when we are at a cabin in ...

Top Five Tips for Growing Beautiful Roses

Top Five Tips for Growing Beautiful Roses

April 9, 2012 No Comments

(Family Features) From June to Sept., roses add a special flourish to yards, gardens and public parks throughout the U.S. But for many gardeners, tending roses may seem intimidating. With 23 years of experience, Jamie Shiffer, head gardener at Hershey Gardens in Hershey, Pa., knows a thing or two about cultivating a beautiful rose, in ...

Spring Lawn and Landscape Tips

Spring Lawn and Landscape Tips

April 2, 2012 No Comments

(Family Features) A beautiful landscape doesn’t happen on its own. You can help your lawn, trees and shrubs get off to a healthy growing season. “Trees and shrubs add tremendous appeal to our urban home environments, but to thrive, particularly out of their natural world, they require regular care with added nutrients and protection against ...

Doing a Stainless Steel Kitchen? Consider Stainless Steel Tiles!

Doing a Stainless Steel Kitchen? Consider Stainless Steel Tiles!

April 2, 2012 No Comments

This weekend, I was searching for top kitchen trends and a perennial favorite came up … stainless steel kitchens. While that wasn’t too surprising, the following design feature offered some intriguing possibilities: stainless steel mosaic tiles. Based in Ontario, Canada, MetalStainlessSteelTiles.com exclusively offers literally any style of metal mosaic tiles designed to bring a unique ...

Getting Old

Getting Old

March 19, 2012 No Comments

(Thanks to Olga Quinn) Mom and I have been looking into ADT South Franklin for her house because I worry about her being out there all alone. I really wish I didn’t have to but since dad died I worry about her being lonely and really jus not safe out there – I keep trying ...

Summertime & Backyard Pools

Summertime & Backyard Pools

March 13, 2012 No Comments

While it’s March and still cold in the Midwest, thoughts of summertime are easy to come by, wishing for warm, sunny days. Sometimes I think of childhood memories … neighborhood friends getting together to spend a hot July afternoon and a seemingly endless day swimming, diving, jumping and playing Marco Polo until dinnertime. Fast forward ...

Easter is Right Around the Corner!

Easter is Right Around the Corner!

March 2, 2012 No Comments

Today I began looking for possible Easter gifts for the kids. Of course, the first thing I did was do a Google search for “gourmet” Easter Gifts in hopes of finding something a little more creative than simply picking up plastic baskets and candy at the local supermarket. Out of the 3 million plus results, ...

Taking Care of Your Swimming Pool

Taking Care of Your Swimming Pool

February 3, 2012 No Comments

Taking care care of your pool is not nearly as difficult as it may seem from first blush. With that said, starting out without any experience can make taking care of a pool a bit overwhelming. When we bought a house with an in-ground pool, it was our first time as pool owners. During our ...

Panel-Ready Refrigerators and So Much More!

Panel-Ready Refrigerators and So Much More!

January 4, 2012 No Comments

Okay, this post is something that comes out of the “believe-it-or-not” file … well, sort of at least. At Quick Home Tips and MyHomeCoupons.com, we are always trying to find the best ideas for our readers. I did a search today on “Home & Garden becoming popular” and only got 744 MILLION results! What was ...

Are You a Nurse? Save Money on Nursing Scrubs!

Are You a Nurse? Save Money on Nursing Scrubs!

December 24, 2011 No Comments

Here at Quick Home Tips, we are trying to save families money on everything related to their home. By natural extension, this also means we hope to save you money on items related to other activities that can affect your home. Of course, your job is one of these! The other day, while doing a ...

This Place is Going to the Birds!

This Place is Going to the Birds!

December 15, 2011 No Comments

As the weather turns colder here in Michigan, our family loves to watch a wide variety of birds as they visit our bird feeder located about ten feet outside of our family room. From the brilliant red of a male cardinal — who always seems to be with his mate — to the quick “touch ...

Flowers & My Anniversary

Flowers & My Anniversary

December 15, 2011 No Comments

Recently, my husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. We agreed not to do anything special other than go out to a nice dinner. When I awoke that morning, my husband had left me a single, white Calla lily flower stem, with some greens and Baby’s Breath, tied with a ribbon and a card ...

Nature’s Centerpiece

Nature’s Centerpiece

December 12, 2011 No Comments

Nature — God’s creation — can serve as a phenomenal inspiration for centerpieces.   Nature’s Centerpiece – This beautiful display can be made in about 30-45 minutes. The greens will last 6 to 8 weeks and carnations will last 3 to 4 weeks, with proper watering. It makes a simple, elegant addition to any table, ...

Festive Candy Cane Centerpiece

Festive Candy Cane Centerpiece

December 12, 2011 No Comments

Candy canes have long been synonymous with Christmas. From About.com, the origin of the candy cane goes back over 350 years, when candy-makers both professional and amateur were making hard sugar sticks. The original candy was straight and completely white in color. Around the seventeenth century, European-Christians began to adopt the use of Christmas trees ...

Quick Tips — Centerpieces

Quick Tips — Centerpieces

December 12, 2011 3 Comments

The following three “Quick Tips” will help anyone who is making their own festive centerpiece. When working with fresh greens, tree sap from the fresh greens can make your hands “sticky” which is just plain annoying. To easily remove sap, apply some Crisco to your hands. The fat from the Crisco will easily dissolve the ...

Christmas Holiday Centerpieces

Christmas Holiday Centerpieces

December 12, 2011 No Comments

Christmas brings with it decorating ideas that can make the holiday special. This can be especially true with centerpieces that can highlight the numerous opportunities to share holiday meals and receptions.   Christmas Candle Centerpiece – This beautiful display can be made in about 40-50 minutes and will last 6 to 8 weeks, with proper ...

Simple Tips For Busy Families

Simple Tips For Busy Families

November 10, 2011 No Comments

(Family Features) Zipping around from one family activity to the next can be fun, but it requires a plan in order to juggle the busy schedule. “Like so many parents, it can be a challenge to keep my active family organized, especially on the go,” says Olympic gold medal figure skater and mom of two ...

Household Budgeting: To Save Or To Spend?

Household Budgeting: To Save Or To Spend?

October 13, 2011 No Comments

(Family Features) From big-ticket purchases to basic household items, people from all economic backgrounds are prioritizing their shopping lists to spend wisely on items worth the investment. It is not surprising that when buying items for you or your family, it can be difficult to decide where to adjust your household budget. Personal finance expert, ...

How Can College Students Avoid Credit Hassles?

How Can College Students Avoid Credit Hassles?

August 25, 2011 No Comments

According to Gabe Albarian, author of Financial Swagger,  as hundreds of thousands of parents send their kids off to college in the coming months, many of them will be wondering if it marks the last time their children will be living under their roofs. According to a study conducted by Twentysomething Inc., a consultant firm specializing ...

ABCs Of Back To School Savings

ABCs Of Back To School Savings

August 17, 2011 No Comments

According to Family Features, an estimated 56 million students will be enrolled in elementary, junior high and high schools across the nation this fall. While retailers eagerly embrace the back-to-school season, many parents cringe as the costs add up for school supplies, sporting equipment, electronics and new clothes. Today’s tough economy makes it challenging to ...