When homeowners weigh which upgrades best improve their property values; remodeling kitchens and expanding bathrooms are almost always top of the list. But what about installing a new driveway? A dirt or gravel parking area turns into a veritable quagmire during bouts of heavy precipitation, which could mean you end up tracking more mess into your home than...

When climate-controlled air escapes or gaps allow non-climate-controlled air inside, heating and cooling system are forced to work overtime. Although frugal people often calculate the cost benefits of replacement windows to reduce energy loss, entry and secondary doors also have a significant effect. A poorly insulated door with even small gaps around the casing can create ongoing drafts....