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A Christmas tree is more than a Christmas tree if you recycle it to help wild birds after the holidays. There are several ways you can turn this ultimate Christmas decoration into the ultimate assistance for birds once you are ready to take it down. Instant Brush Pile: The fastest, easiest way to reuse a Christmas tree is to turn it into an instant brush pile for winter shelter for sparrows, quail, doves and other backyard birds. Simply put the tree outdoors for birds to use, ideally positioning it in a sheltered location such as a fence corner or alongside...

Although primary bathrooms continue to be one of the most popular rooms to renovate, the features within the spaces have evolved over the years. According to the 2017 Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, released today, statement showers with more square footage, high-end features, such as rainfall showerheads, and accessible amenities are some of the most preferred additions in remodels. Idea generator website Houzz surveyed roughly 1,200 users who completed a primary bath renovation in the last 12 months, are currently working on one, or are planning to start one in the next three months. The 56-question survey found the average overall...

Generally, the forward thinking concept of building a home in which the owner may someday use the basement as a living space wasn’t widely practiced until the 1950s and 1960s. Older homes had basements which were primarily a place to keep the furnace and other utilities, as well as storing things that can handle the cooler, damp atmosphere. On the plus side, cool basements were excellent for storing canned goods. Nowadays, finished basements are a common and economical way of improving your home. Living space is greatly increased, and the home’s resale value goes up as well. The challenge is...

While it’s true that most homeowners with a chainsaw (and the fortitude) can cut down a tree, it should be stressed that this is a project to be approached with the utmost care. Safety is the number one concern. Not only are chainsaws dangerous, but falling trees are equally so. It stands to reason therefore, that any trees of considerable size should be dealt with by a professional. If you have any doubts, err on the side of caution and consult or hire an expert. If however, you have a small tree that needs to be removed, and you think...

Whether you are dealing with Hurricane Harvey or a future weather catastrophe, any of us could find ourselves in the chaos of a destructive storm. If/when it happens, brace yourselves. Have a plan in place and be ready to respond. As I write this, Hurricane Harvey has raged through Texas. It is now a tropical storm that is flooding a widespread area. The coming days and months are going to stressful for remodeling contractors serving flooded areas, as well as our homeowner victims. There will be far more demand for your services than you can possibly provide. Your time and...