Increasingly, savvy homeowners are making the Web their first stop when taking on a home improvement project. There are websites that, with the click of a mouse, can detail everything from caulking to landscaping to hiring a pest professional for an annual inspection. It's important, however, to make sure you are getting useful and accurate information.
According to James and Morris Carey-nationally recognized experts on home building and renovation, and hosts of the syndicated radio show "On The House"-the key is to select a few reliable websites to serve as guides.
"The Internet can be both a help and a hindrance," warns James. "It can be downright time-consuming to comb through the dizzying number of sites that are out there. So, it's absolutely critical to rely on the quality of information a site has to offer, in addition to educated recommendations from reliable home improvement experts."
The Carey Bros. advise keeping the following websites a click away:
• TheFamilyHandyman.com: For the DIY-minded consumer, this website hosts a large assortment of great tips and quick fixes. Easy to maneuver, it includes step-by-step pictures for each tip, a resource that's quite helpful for first-time projects.
• HGTV.com: Ideal for decorating, remodeling, gardening and crafts, this website has educational and engaging video tutorials and inspirational content to challenge ambitious homeowners.
• OnTheHouse.com: The official website of the Carey Bros., this website is host to over 20 years of seasoned home improvement expertise, updated daily with fresh content.
Says James, "We're fortunate enough to share the tried and true and the latest and greatest home improvement tips and trends with our audience."
• TermiteInstitute.com: There are some projects that even seasoned homeowners should leave to the pros, and termite defense is one of them. Recently featured in The New York Times as a premier termite consumer education resource, TermiteInstitute.com provides a complete, simple tutorial on termites-how to rid your home of them, as well as prevent them.
For consumers looking to learn more about America's $5 billion wood feasters, "there's no better resource on the Web," notes Morris.
Experts say the key to using the Internet for guidance on a home improvement project is to refer to a few reliable websites. |
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