Homes

An Illinois man discovers that building ornamental iron structures combines beauty and functionality around his country home.

Solar water heaters provide instant hot water, work in any climate, and can provide 50% to 80% of a home's hot water needs.

You can't stop dangerous winds when a storm blows in, but you can take steps to keep your family safe.

Many households could save 20-30% on their household energy bills by implementing energy efficiency improvements, according to a government study.

If you don't have a good heater, your garage isn't going to be very useful in the winter.

Space heaters can be used to warm areas of the house and garage, but they can be dangerous. Here are some tips for using them safely.

Before lighting the first fire of the season, it's important to make sure your chimney is in good repair.

Wood stoves were a mainstay in homes of the past, and they can still be used to help reduce heating costs.

Checking water pipes in the home may not be top of mind, but if they freeze or burst, everything else will have to wait.

If your home is starting to feel drafty, it's time to invest in a tube of caulking and a caulk gun.

Like a vehicle, the key to keeping your septic system in shape is regular maintenance. The tank will need to be pumped by a professional every three to five years, or more often depending on use.

Rural homeowners share their advice on how to make your holiday lighting display more fun and less work.

Retaining walls that hold back soil or rock from an area can be a wonderful addition to your landscaping. While the walls are often attractive, they also work to help prevent soil erosion and provide support for vertical or near-vertical grade changes. Just as your house needs a strong foundation, a retaining wall must have a firm base that will prevent the dirt beneath from shifting.

Bricks and mortar aren't always the answer to a solid wall. A dry stone wall will stand up to the ages, as long as you keep it in good condition.

When the Young family was searching for rural property in upstate New York, they settled on a place that was decidedly different from what they wanted. It was the lucky break of a lifetime.

If you hate to shovel snow, the idea of a heated driveway may sound too good to be true.

Gravel driveways are an often overlooked part of rural life. However, careful planning and regular maintenance keeps your driveway in top condition.

A detached guest house gives visitors more space and privacy, and can be less expensive than building an addition on your home. When guests leave, the guest house can be used as a getaway, home office, studio, or anything else you desire.

Thanks to a wide range of home saunas available, you don't have to wait to go to the gym or check into a hotel to get the steam treatment.

If you're struggling with high energy bills, investing in a corn furnace may turn out to be a logical solution to your problem. Corn is readily available, affordable, and easy on the environment.

A deck is a must-have addition to any country home, and having the right lighting will let you enjoy your outdoor room day and night.

Building a deck that will bring a lifetime of good memories begins by selecting quality materials that last a lifetime. Built of ipe (Brazilian walnut), this handcrafted deck will outlast softer woods five to one.

Wood-plastic composites are coming on strong in rural America's yards, while a global timber industry still offers long-lasting natural lumber.

Beautiful Places

Enjoy these country homes with breathtaking views, inspiring landscaping, and cozy getaways.

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