Gutters serve an important function, helping to drain runoff away from a roof. A clogged or damaged gutter becomes ineffective at protecting windows, doors, siding and the foundation from potential water damage. When selling a home, dirty gutters often become an inspection item of potential buyers. Explore a few basics when it comes to home gutter maintenance.

When to Clean Gutters

Individuals cleaning their gutters as a DIY project should schedule time to do so at a minimum of twice a year. More frequent cleaning may be required in locations prone to storms or when roofs lie beneath trees. Homeowner may be able to clean a gutter themselves when they can safely use a ladder and access the roof. Individuals with multi-story homes may want to hire

The right countertop material is not only functional but complements the rest of a room. While some may find a granite or marble countertop an attractive option, others may be open to laminate, concrete and other types of countertop materials. Check out a few of the most common countertop materials used on kitchen cabinetry and more today.

Granite Countertops

Homeowners may find that granite countertops help with the resale value of a home as they are often an elegant touch to a luxury home. Expect granite countertops to be more expensive than many other options. This durable material is made from natural stone, quarried from igneous stone deposits. Many people like the beauty of a unique stone surface. It is also heat and scratch resistance. The

New home buyers looking for a new homes to buy, often want to include a garage. However, once purchase, the homes garage could tend to be a messy place. Over time, the mess can become difficult to manage. If you don't take the time to get organized, your garage may even become unusable. If you're a homeowner with a messy garage, these tips can help you make your garage space a user-friendly, serviceable part of your home.

Make Goals

The first step to getting organized is to make goals. Homeowners use their garages for different purposes. Whether the garage will be used as storage space, vehicle space, or a wood shop, this must determined before anything else can be done. Once it's known what the garage will be used for, then all other efforts

A great backyard is fun for the homeowner but also is an asset and helps sell the home when it's time to move on. Renovating a backyard starts with a homeowner understanding the functionality they want from it. Even the smallest backyards have room for a fountain or fire pit, so space shouldn't necessarily be the restricting factor. The first step should include cleaning out the yard as much as possible, so there's room for everything to fit. Sell or donate rarely-used items and see how many square feet are left to put the following upgrades or installations into the yard.

Water Element

A rain garden, fishpond or birdbath can be a great way to incorporate water into a home without a pool. The idea behind this element is to provide a relaxing

Deck installation is a high ROI project that can boost property value and help a home sell quickly. Deck installation is also a very affordable project, so that many homeowners will at one time or another consider installing a deck in their back yard. For a homeowner who has never owned a deck, or a homeowner who has never taken on a major remodel project, deck installation can be an overwhelming or intimidating task. These tips can help make the project a success.

What is the ROI of Installing a Deck?

When you are trying to sell your home in a market that is favorable to buyers, you have to make your property as attractive as possible. The average ROI for decks is 73%, but this percentage can be even higher when the deck is built out of

Are you beginning to notice cracks forming above a window in your home? This may indicate an issue with the foundation, which could be a serious problem. Homeowners should be aware of how to proceed when it comes to a cracked or damaged foundation.

Learn more about foundation damage and related foundation repairs today.

Does a Homeowner Need to Worry?

If a homeowner sees a crack forming, it does not automatically mean that there has been significant damage to the foundation. Older homes can develop unevenness after some time due to natural settling. In such a case, these thin cracks simply need to be sealed to protect against water intrusion. Unfortunately, there are more serious reasons for a cracked or damaged foundation.

A homeowner

Choosing the right flooring can be a challenge when you're moving into a new house. Knowing the difference between the various types of flooring and which factors to consider when installing flooring can help you decide which type of flooring is right for you.

Factors To Consider

There are many factors to consider when choosing a flooring type.

• Temperature. Hard flooring types, especially stone and tile, tend to be cold on the feet and can make some homeowners uncomfortable. Carpeting tends to be warmer.
• Safety. Young children and seniors may be less likely to hurt themselves if they fall on carpeting than if they fall on another type of flooring material.
• Moisture. Moisture in bathrooms and kitchens makes carpeting and hardwood

Homeowners have many options to change the look of their homes. Some homeowners may choose to do extensive remodels, while others may decided to add a home addition. Instead of a remodel, homeowners may appreciate the increase in space for relaxation, entertaining and more with a home addition. However, any change to the structure of a home should warrant careful thought and planning. In many instances, special permits may be required before a home addition can begin. In fact, there a number of considerations prior to starting work on a home addition that will help a homeowner get the most from their new addition.

Get a Clear Overview

Homeowners may need to prioritize their needs and should begin their planning process by identifying key

There are multiple ways to make a home more appealing to buyers, and updating the kitchen is one of the best. Not only do kitchen renovations offer some of the best return of investment (ROI) rates for household renovations are in the kitchen. For any homeowner thinking about sprucing up their home to sell, here are some of the best renovations and updates for the kitchen.

Granite Countertops

While they may be a very big investment at $40-200 per square foot, granite countertops can be one of the best ways to renovate a kitchen. Countertops are highly visible and get a lot of use during their lifetime, and not only does granite look impressive, but it's nearly impossible to damage through mundane means. Having granite countertops installed in

Whether buying a new construction home and giving the builders specifications or just replacing old windows on the home they already own, homeowners need to know the different types of windows they can choose from. Different types of windows pose different advantages and aesthetics, so it’s up to the homeowner to decide which type to decide which type they want for their home. Here are some of the most common types of windows homeowners can have installed in their homes and what sets them apart from the rest.

Double- and Single-Hung Windows

The most common type of window used for home is single-hung and double-hung windows. What’s the difference between the two? On single-hung windows, only the bottom window can open, while on double-hung