Category: HOME

How to Have a Chef-Approved Kitchen Without Remodeling

You can cook like the pros without ever firing up a restaurant-caliber range—or tearing out countertops. Here are some ideas that won’t require a contractor. Choose Easy-Grab Cabinet Hardware Quick access to gear and ingredients makes a kitchen run smoothly. One small but important detail: cabinet hardware. Long, rectangular pulls are easier to grip than…


Southern Storms Damage Homes, Buildings, Power Lines

WINFIELD, Ala.—Homes and buildings were damaged and trees were blown down as a line of intense thunderstorms rolled across several Southern states, authorities said. There were no immediate reports of injuries. In the west Alabama town of Winfield, Wednesday’s storms damaged buildings in the downtown area, authorities said. Building walls collapsed and roofs were lying…


Repair Shower Stall Membrane to Repair a Leak

Dear James: A dark spot is forming on the ceiling below my master bathroom with a tile floor. My newer house is just past the warranty. Where should I look for the water leak? —Amy F. Dear Amy: It seems like problems always occur just after the new house warranty expires. The basic plumbing is…


Little Ways to Love Your Home in the New Year

Instead of feeling blue after the holidays, consider this your opportunity for a clean slate. Tackle one (or a few!) of these small ways to declutter and restyle your home for a brighter, happier, and cleaner new year. Adorn a Bare Mantel Resist the urge to shop to fill that empty ledge. Instead, strategically use…


New Homeowner Program Shows Why California Is Unaffordable

Commentary It sounds really great for homeowners. The California Mortgage Relief Plan will provide 40,000 California homeowners up to $80,000 in relief, each. They even won’t have to pay it back. It was just approved by the U.S. Department of the Treasury as part of the federal American Rescue Plan Act’s Homeowner Assistance Fund. “We…


Minimize Paint Blistering With Proper Techniques

Dear James: My house has wood siding, which I painted last year. Most of it looks good, but it blistered in some spots and is getting worse. What is the best way to repair it? —Dwight R. Dear Dwight: Blistering can look very bad and generally will get much worse and more widespread over time….


Germany: Ex-Nurse Convicted of Killing 4 at Disabled Home

BERLIN—A former nurse at a home for the severely disabled in eastern Germany was convicted of murder and given a 15-year sentence on Wednesday for killing four residents. The state court in Potsdam ordered the 52-year-old woman sent to a psychiatric hospital, German news agency dpa reported. She also was convicted of attempted murder and…


How to Clean and Care for Wood Floors to Keep Them Looking Beautiful

Of all the choices in home flooring, wood stands out for many as the most beautiful. Wood is durable and coordinates well with any decor, and most real estate agents agree it improves the home’s value at resale. Knowing how to protect and clean wood floors is essential—and surprisingly easy. As It Happens To protect…


Why You May or May Not Need an Air Fryer

Air fryers are sweeping the nation. But what is an air fryer? How does it work? And, most importantly, do you need one? Here’s the lowdown. Several years ago, a “miraculous” kitchen appliance appeared on the scene promising us that we could fry with air. A new treat for your health—up to 90 percent less…


Holiday Hosting: Tips for Decorating a Buffet Table and Serving Your Guests With Style

Don’t stress about holiday hosting; this no-fuss guide will help you plan a festive gathering. Create a Buffet Centerpiece Add to the holiday cheer of your party table with a creative display. Choose a festive tin or basket. Place some greenery in the center, then fill the container with apples, oranges, or other fruits, top…