Home improvement tips for summer: make your technology work for you

The days are getting longer, the weather is heating up and people everywhere are anxiously preparing for summer. As families get ready for more time at home over summer break, you may notice an increased number of home improvement projects going on in your neighborhood. Couples are moving into new homes, fresh coats of paint are drying and endless "honey-do" lists are being passed from wives to husbands.

This year, be sure to take advantage of the ways in which your existing home technology can make these projects easier - from tips and techniques to ordering directly online. The following tips show you how to effectively finish your home improvements with technology tools you may already own.

Home improvement websites: The Internet is chock full of information and services you can use to simplify your latest projects. Home improvement websites such as doityourself.com and thisoldhouse.com offer extensive, detailed information on everything from installing hardwood floors to sewing custom draperies. Visit these sites to learn the techniques to complete your projects and even watch how-to instructional videos. Message boards and expert tips posted on these sites are also great ways to learn what works ... and what doesn't.

Home improvement shows: Many people are surprised to find that their existing satellite TV service offers channels specifically devoted to home improvement such as HGTV and the DIY (Do It Yourself) Network. These channels feature entertaining programming that can be helpful in garnering ideas for your latest project. Similar to instructional videos found online, shows on these networks offer advice and tips while at the same time presenting the instruction in a fun, enjoyable way.

Home improvement stores: National chains like Lowe's and Home Depot offer a variety of services online that make renovation easier than ever before. Through their websites, home owners are able to reserve tools and equipment, request expert advice on a range of topics, and even browse specific items carried in the stores. Gathering information and planning your shopping list before you visit one of these massive warehouses makes the trip faster and eliminates much of the guesswork.

Home improvement photos: Digital technology has made photo-sharing easier than ever before, so take some time to snap a couple of photos using your camera or cell phone of your projects, or even of an example of something you see that you'd like to replicate. Post the pictures (or video) online on social networking sites, Youtube.com or Flickr.com and ask viewers to leave comments with helpful advice. Leading satellite television providers can even let you view this content directly through your TV. Tapping into the experience of fellow do-it-yourselfers is one of the smartest ways to go about completing your task.

Summer is the perfect time to tackle that home improvement project you've been meaning to finish for months. With thousands of resources and experts available in any given area, it's a shame not to make the most of the technology you already own. By employing a few of these helpful hints, you'll be sure to complete your project like pro and have your home improved in time for Labor Day.

Courtesy of ARAcontent