Lifestyle & Trends - Green Living

How to make growing your own vegetables as earth-friendly as possible

There was a time when it was the norm to go out in the yard and pull fresh vegetables up from the soil. At some point over the years, we moved from the goodness of home-grown vegetables toward processed foods and microwave dinners. Now consumers are becoming more aware of the financial value of growing their own vegetables, and how doing so can bolster the health of their families and of the earth. Read More

You can do that with vinyl siding?

With the economy making a slow rebound, homeowners continue to look for cost-effective options when building or renovating their homes. Natural exterior building materials are often very expensive and require both time and money to maintain. Choosing vinyl and polymeric siding is one way people are saving on building materials. Both siding options, which many considered at one time to be fake-looking or boring, have become one of the most versatile, detailed and eco-friendly home exterior products available on the market today. Read More

Time running out to earn tax credits on new garage doors

The tax credit eligibility for qualified garage doors will expire on Dec. 31. Now is your last chance to save 30 percent off the price of an energy-saving curb-appeal-inspiring garage door, courtesy of the U.S. government. Read More

Looking to make your home more livable and still save money? Rely on natural light

You can use natural light to enhance your home's livability, not to mention your mood. Bringing ample natural light into your house can also help trim utility bills by reducing your dependence on electricity to power artificial lighting, and gas or oil to heat your home. Read More

Bathroom remodeling today means less water and money down the drain

You're ready for a new bathroom, something with style and comfort. You want the room to refresh you in the mornings, and provide you with the opportunity to relax and unwind in the evenings. Read More

Three tips to make your utility meter run backward

(ARA) - What would you do with an extra $2,200 per year? That is the annual energy bill for a typical American home, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy (DOE). Dramatically reducing that cost, or even selling power back to the utility company, could mean having enough money for a vacation, a down payment on a car or a boost to your child's college savings. Read More

Effortless ways to conserve water in the home

The summer months are right around the corner, and water conservation will undoubtedly be brought to the forefront for those who are impacted by seasonal droughts and water usage restrictions in their towns. It seems to be abundant, but water is a relatively scarce resource. Less than 1 percent of the world's fresh water is readily accessible for direct human use. Here are a few tips that you can follow to reduce your water consumption in the bath. Read More

How to go on a 'low-car' diet

Automobiles are as American as baseball and apple pie. Admit it, you can't remember the last time you walked or biked to get somewhere. Your car is just too convenient a mode of transportation, but it may be time to rethink your ways. Read More

Boosting home energy efficiency: Improvements that feel good and save money

A long-term investment in improved energy efficiency can make sound dollar sense for your family. Energy-efficient home improvements can help reduce energy use, lower utility bills and cut your home's environmental impact. Read More

Is going green worth it?

You've stopped buying bottled water, opting instead for a reusable bottle you carry everywhere you go. When you go shopping, your list leans toward the organic and recycled. But when you get home, going "green" seems a lot more daunting. Read More

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