News
Choosing the Right Sheen for your Spring 2026 Palette
A Guide to Paint Sheens One thing most people don’t realize is that sheen actually changes the color of the paint, even if it’s from the exact same can.
The $2 Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed
When you think of a pool noodle, you probably picture summer afternoons and lazy days at the pool. But for the savvy homeowner, that neon foam tube is actually one of the most versatile tools in the shed.
Erase Scratches with Furniture Touch-Up Markers
Have you ever heard the saying, “Life Happens”? Whether it’s a moving day mishap, a vacuum cleaner collision, or a very excited puppy running around your home, nicks and scratches are inevitable in daily household life.
A Winter Mudroom Hack
Anyone who has endured a Northeast winter—or frankly, any February worth its salt—knows the ritual. You step inside, peel off your slush‑soaked boots, and drop them into a plastic tray only to find a few hours later that the soles are still wet, cold, and sitting in a shallow pool of murky meltwater. So, how do you avoid the “Mudroom Puddle”?
What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat at Night to Save Money?
Recently, the HouseCalls team has been buzzing with questions about managing thermostats and what temperature is best to balance comfort and cost. Here are the questions we have been asked most often recently—and the surprising facts every homeowner should know.
Have you tried the ‘Lemon Steam’ trick yet?
Did you know that over 90% of American households still rely on a microwave every single day? As the temperatures drop, our microwaves officially enter their peak season.
Do You Know How To Save 10% on Heating?
Well regarded among energy companies and the Marion Institute, running your ceiling fan in reverse “can actually save you up to 10% on heating costs this winter” by recirculating pooled warm air.
A Clever Drywall Trick Every DIYer Should Know
Drywall has a surprisingly cool origin story: it was invented as a fire‑resistant alternative to traditional lath‑and‑plaster walls.
Two Unique Ways to Prevent Door Drafts in Winter
When winter rolls in, door drafts can quickly turn a cozy home into a chilly space. Air leaks can account for 25%-40% of your home’s energy use. While weather stripping can help seal entryways and help with heat loss, there are lesser-known DIY methods that can be both fun and functional.
Make Your Home Safe As You Age: Simple Upgrades for Your Forever Home
For many homeowners, the dream isn't just to find a great house, it's to find a “forever home” —a place where they can live comfortably and safely for years to come. With a significant portion of the population choosing to stay in their homes as they get older, the concept of “aging in place” has moved from a specialized topic to a central part of home ownership.
5 Smart and Surprising Uses for Vinegar in Your Home
We’ve rounded up the opinions from our HouseCalls team to bring you five of our favorite uses for vinegar that will fundamentally change how you clean, deodorize, and maintain your living space.
Winterize Your Home: Essential DIY Tips to Stay Warm and Save Money
As the chill of autumn deepens and winter looms, savvy homeowners know it’s time to prepare their homes for the cold. Winterizing isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your property, conserving energy, and avoiding costly repairs.
How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree: A Complete 2025 Guide
Choosing the perfect Christmas tree is not just about aesthetics, it’s about creating memories, setting the tone for your celebrations, and finding a tree that fits your home. With so many options available, from fragrant firs to pre‑lit artificial designs, this guide will help you confidently decide how to choose the perfect Christmas tree this season.
How To Make Your Home Holiday-Ready
As the holidays approach, many of us feel the pull to transform our homes into cozy, festive havens. That’s where HouseCalls comes in—with smart, quick, DIY solutions that make your space holiday-ready without the hassle.
Get Your Home Holiday-Ready: Tip – Update Cabinet Hardware
The Winter Holidays are just around the corner and whether you're hosting a full house or simply welcoming a few close friends, the weeks leading up to the holidays are the perfect time to prep your home for guests.
