Houses are money pits. Between the taxes, the maintenance, and the repairs, it’s a wonder anyone can afford to own one. One way to save money on home-related expenses is to take on some home repair ...

In Southern California, the easiest way to “add” square footage to a home is to take advantage of outdoor patios as alternative living rooms, dining areas and even full kitchens. With thought, time ...

This past July was the month Cheryl and I had planned to install a patio cover over the rear deck of our office and showroom. Not near as much planned as circumstances seemed to dictate the timing. We ...

At the top of the list of backyard upgrades that turn ‘builders grade’ into ‘summer retreat’ is a pergola. These often freestanding structures provide shade and valuable cover for other upgrades–like ...

All winter long we crave the warmth of the sun, and then by the time summer rolls around, we’re working hard to avoid its harmful effects. That’s particularly true in our backyards, where too much ...