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How to Find a Good Plumber
Plumbing is seldom exciting. It works fine for years, faithfully filling, flowing, and flushing. But when a pipe leaks water through your kitchen ceiling, the excitement may become more than you can stand.
How to Deal with Your Plumber
With any company you choose, dealing wisely with the plumber nets better work and saves you money. Whether you need a remodeling job or repairs, if possible, get a written price quote before work begins.
Plumbing Dos and Don’ts
Following these rules will help reduce the seriousness and frequency of plumbing problems.
Buying Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinets and countertops are central to kitchen makeovers—and usually account for the biggest chunk of budgets. Here's advice on how to get the kitchen you crave for the least amount of hassle and money.
Trends in Cabinets & Countertops
You’ll probably redo your kitchen only every 10 to 20 years, so select cabinets and countertops that you love—with an eye toward finishes that stand the test of time. Here’s how to get a space you’ll enjoy for years.
Countertop Suppliers & Installers
When shopping for new countertops, shop for the best price to save. Consumers’ Checkbook's undercover shoppers found huge cost differences when they collected quotes from companies to supply and install countertops using the exact same design.
Should You Hire a Painter or Do It Yourself?
A good painting contractor will produce better results than most DIYers—and finish faster. But because they don't have to pay for their own labor, lots of homeowners grab rollers and brushes. Here are several points to consider before taking the painting plunge.
How to Pick Paint
Interior and exterior paints come in thousands of shades and a range of finishes, from flat to high gloss. Here’s what to know before you purchase a single can.
Tips on Painting a Room
Repainting is the easiest, most cost-effective way to redo a room’s décor. Before you grab a brush and roller, here are some tips on how to paint like a pro.
Best Places to Buy Carpet
You’ll want to do your shopping at stores where you can get good advice, good selection, quality installation services, and honest business practices—at reasonable prices.
How to Avoid Getting Floored on Carpet Prices
Comparing carpet prices is not easy, largely because many retailers change carpets’ style names from the names bestowed by the manufacturers. But taking the time to do some shopping will pay off big.
How to Find the Right Carpet for Your Space
Because carpeting affects the look of a room, lasts a long time, and can cost thousands of dollars, take time to make good decisions about many issues, including: color, style, pattern, texture, padding, and price range.
