Articles By:

Randy Boerstler

I started as a home-stalker... visiting brand new homes under construction in the neighborhoods near my house. That inspired me to write about home building and home renovation projects -- chronicling homes during different phases of construction from a consumer's point-of-view. Basically, the tips you'll find in my articles are a collection of checklists for what I think should (and should not) go into building or remodeling a quality home.

Accessible Design Is A Key Factor In The Home Building Industry

Accessible design in the home building industry is here to stay. Easy access, easy use and easy passage are the main focus of homes certified under the EasyLiving Homes voluntary program. They're not designed just for retirement communities either.

Are Heat Pump Water Heaters Right For Your Home?

If you are in the market for a new water heater you need to investigate whether or not electric heat pump water heaters are right for you. There are some pretty cool emerging technologies being implemented into water heaters these days. This is one of them.

Home Water Heater Efficiency Is Increasing With Advanced Technologies

This water heater efficiency guide is key to saving you money and reducing energy usage in our homes. Replace your old, tired energy-gobbling water heater and save yourself some money.

Guidelines For Water Heater Life Expectancy

Water heater life expectancy will vary on the type of fuel it runs on and a few other important factors. Learn how to choose a water heater that will save you money in the long run.

How To Choose The Best Energy Star Water Heater For Your Home

Choosing a water heater for your home can be a daunting task. This is a series of posts that will guide you through the process of selecting the best water heater for your home. Choosing an Energy Star water heater is a great start so dig in and come away with the best choice for you.

Pros & Cons of Liquid Stainless Steel

There are lots of opinions about liquid stainless steel and this list is the only Pros & Cons list you'll need. Paint your appliances with liquid stainless steel for $150 total.

Painting Countertops To Look Like Granite… Really! A Cool Home DIY Project

Painting countertops might seem a little weird but if you want the look of granite without the cost of granite, take a look at this. This is a great solution to a dull and dated countertop. It's durable and will last as long as the countertop you paint it onto. It's a DIY money-saver, too.

Save Money and Conserve Water At Home By Installing A Dual Flush Kit In Your Toilet

A simple way to conserve water and save money at the same time is to install a dual flush kit on your old toilets in your home. They're pretty cheap and they work as advertised. My comparisons will help you decide which brand to choose. A look into high-efficiency toilets (HETs), too.

Painted Wood Floors Will Liven Up Your Home: How To DIY

Painting hardwood floors can really liven up a room. I'm giving you my best tips for how to prep the floors, apply the wood floor paint, and other DIY tips to make sure the job goes well!

How To Build Built-In DIY Bookshelves For Your Home Is Easier Than Ever

Building built-in DIY bookshelves at home is made easier than ever with stock materials that you can purchase at your local home improvement center. If you're a little more adventurous and have the carpentry skills to back it up, you could build them from scratch. This easy to follow video shows you step-by-step how to DIY.

How To Create Window Seat Storage For Comfort and Utility

How many times have you seen a window seat with a soft cushion and some pillows and thought it would be cool to have one of those in your own house. Now imagine having custom storage and built-in bookshelves surrounding that very same window!

Great Ideas For Storage Under Stairs

Need more storage space in your home? See some interesting ways to take advantage of the unused space under your stairway to create DIY storage under stairs

Is Universal Home Design the Wave of the Future? You’d Better Believe It Is!

What are the basic principles behind Universal Home Design? Here are easily explained answers for the 3 trouble spots found within every home: the entrance, the kitchen and the bathroom. If you're building, remodeling or buying a home, you'll want to make life more comfortable for yourself or the homeowners. See if your home measures up.

What You Need To Know Before Having Custom Closets Installed In Your Home: DIY vs. Professional Installation

Custom closets are one of the smartest improvements a homeowner can do for themselves and their home. There are many questions that you need to think about before you go through with installing custom closets in your home and I've got some answers for you.