Many people are familiar with the idea that a strong first impression can go a long way. While that idea is most often referenced in regard to personal interactions, it's also applicable to real estate. When selling a home, homeowners…

Upon the arrival of warm weather, many individuals prefer to spend their free time outside, relishing the fresh air and sunshine and evenings spent under the stars. But cracked patios and makeshift chairs and tables may not establish the desired…

Volatile organic compounds are emitted by a vast array of products. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that VOCs consist of gases discharged from solids or liquids that produce short- and long-term health effects. VOCs are particularly troubling because their concentrations…

Conserving natural resources is often so simple that people make some adjustments without affecting their daily lives at all. But sometimes it's not so easy to conserve. Summer is one time of year when conservation efforts tend to require more…

Few people can make it through the dog days of summer without turning on their air conditioners. Men and women concerned about the environment and conserving energy may try to avoid using their air conditioners, but doing so on especially…

Homeowners interested in installing pools in their backyards need not worry about the potential impact of such decisions on surrounding landscapes. According to the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, there are 10.4 million residential and 309,000 public swimming pools…