Remodeling discussions and local services.
jennifer_phillips
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Keeping the air moving in big, open spaces
Leaning into the industrial look can really work, especially if you’re aiming for that modern loft vibe. I used to think exposed ductwork just looked like the reno wasn’t finished, but after seeing a few places with matt...
RE: How Long Does It Really Take To Insulate A House?
Totally agree - there’s a sweet spot between sealing up drafts and letting the house breathe a bit. When I started insulating, I was all about plugging every gap, but after reading up (and talking to a few folks), I real...
RE: What would you do if your kitchen reno budget doubled overnight?
Honestly, I’m right there with you - sometimes you just have to let go of the old stuff, even if it stings a bit. What helped me was picking one or two things (like a cabinet knob or a piece of molding) to reuse. It’s no...
RE: Home plumbing checkups: DIY checklist or pro inspection?
That’s exactly where I’m at - trying to figure out what’s “regular” enough without going overboard. I’ve started making my own step-by-step notes for each room: kitchen, bathroom, laundry. Sometimes I worry I’ll miss som...
RE: Plants as roommates: Study says indoor greenery boosts mental health
I get the temptation to just stick with snake plants - they’re like the chill roommate who never leaves dishes in the sink. But before you “evict” a dramatic plant, I’d try a little troubleshooting. I had a calathea that...
RE: Finding reliable help for home renos - what do you look for?
Totally get this. I used to think a fancy portfolio was all I needed to see, but after my first kitchen reno, I realized communication is everything. The guy I hired looked great on paper, but he’d disappear for days and...
RE: my house is getting smarter than me, and it's kinda weird
I totally get where you’re coming from - there’s something reassuring about a solid key in your pocket. But honestly, after my first winter in this house, I started to see the appeal of smart locks too. Here’s how I look...
RE: my house is getting smarter than me, and it's kinda weird
I get where you’re coming from - nothing’s more frustrating than tech failing when you actually need it. But I’ve been testing out a smart lock for a few months, and honestly, it’s been pretty smooth. There’s a physical ...
RE: HOW LONG DID YOUR POOL MAKEOVER REALLY TAKE?
HOW LONG DID YOUR POOL MAKEOVER REALLY TAKE? I totally get what you mean about the “demo day high” followed by the “now what?” slump. Ours was supposed to be a six-week job, but it stretched closer to three months. Here...
RE: Keeping Your Home Dry: Insulation Tips for Flood-Prone Areas
Keeping Your Home Dry: Insulation Tips for Flood-Prone Areas I totally get the struggle with air gaps - my last place had them and I swear, it was like a mold Airbnb. Here’s what worked for me (after a lot of trial and ...
RE: Natural cleaners vs store-bought stuff for appliances
Natural Cleaners: Sometimes Worth the Hassle? I totally relate to the “chemistry lesson gone wrong” thing. I’m still new to all this, but I tried to go full-on natural when we moved in - figured it’d be cheaper and safe...
RE: my house is getting smarter than me, and it's kinda weird
Honestly, I thought I was the only one who ended up knee-deep in wires and existential dread the first time I tried to install a smart switch. My “method” was basically: take a picture, unscrew everything, then panic whe...
RE: Wrapping My House Up Like a Sweater - Worth the Hassle?
I totally get the “stale air” thing. When we sealed up our old drafty place, it felt like living in Tupperware for a bit. We ended up cracking a window just a smidge here and there - probably not the most energy efficien...
RE: Little-Known Hacks for Keeping Your Patio Looking Fresh
I’m with you on the vinegar - it’s been a lifesaver for me too, especially since I’ve got kids running around. One extra step I found helpful was sprinkling baking soda into the cracks after spraying vinegar. It seems to...
RE: Finally switched to keyless entry and here's what I noticed
Totally agree on the retrofit route being a good starting point. I recently did my first renovation and went with a retrofit smart lock too - mostly because I wasn't ready to commit to a full replacement yet (budget and ...