Can You Safely Use a Ladder on Stairs? Experts Weigh In

There’s a certain risk of falling any time you use a ladder, but the risk multiplies by several times when you use a ladder on stairs. And the problem is — whether you’re installing or repairing drywall, installing electrical fixtures, painting or doing some other work in a stairwell — ladder work is almost impossible to avoid. So if you have to do it, it’s important to do it as safely as possible.

“As a master electrician, I’ve spent a lot of time working on ladders—including staircases, which are among the trickiest spots,” says Josh Leclair, who owns an electrical contracting business. “Over the years, I’ve learned a few key tips to stay safe on stairs in almost any situation.”

Leclair and other pros who navigate this potentially dangerous situation on a regular basis offer ladder safety tips in this post.

Is It Safe To Use a Ladder on Stairs?

“Working on stairs is one of those things that looks sketchy even when you’re doing it right,” says licensed professional handyman Francisco Fuenmayor. OSHA states that stairways and ladders are major causes of injury among construction workers, and many injuries are serious enough to require time off the job.

One reason for the heightened risk is that, if you do fall, you’re not going to hit flat ground; you’ll probably hit the edge of a stair tread (ouch!) and might continue to fall to the bottom of the stairway. Despite this possibility, workers like Fuenmayor use ladders on stairs all the time and have developed methods to do it. They may not be 100 percent safe because of the inherent risks of ladder work, but they’re as safe as using a ladder on level ground.

Risks of using ladders on stairs

The main risk of using a ladder on stairs is that you can fall, and this risk is amplified by several conditions:

• Poor lighting: Stairwells often have no windows, and during construction, there may not be any lighting either.
• Clutter: If you have to step around objects on the stairway, your risk of slipping increases.
• Carrying something: To safely use a ladder, you should maintain three points of contact while climbing. This is difficult or impossible when you’re carrying a large object like a sheet of drywall.
• Damaged ladder: It goes without saying you should never use a damaged ladder on a stairway — or anywhere, for that matter.
• Slippery conditions: When working outdoors, ice, snow and water increase the risk of having a ladder slip out from under you.

How to Safely Use a Ladder on Stairs

You need a way to level your ladder when you use it on stairs, and no, don’t try to do it with blocks of wood and plywood. “Never try to ‘make do’ with a standard ladder and blocks—I’ve seen too many near misses that way,” warns Leclair. You need slip-proof equipment designed to hold your weight.

A ladder platform

Eight of the 10 tradespeople with whom I spoke recommended setting your ladder on an adjustable ladder platform. It has an extendable base and a set of telescoping legs that reach the tread below the one on which you’re working. Two brands they mentioned were the PIVIT ladder tool and the Ladder-Aide.

A ladder leveler

Remodeler Danny Niemela recommends a different tool for leveling your ladder. It attaches to the base of one side of a stepladder and allows you to adjust the length of that side to reach the tread below the one on which the other side is resting. Vevor is a leading brand name.

An A-frame ladder with adjustable legs

“In my experience,” says painter Carr Lanphier, “the only safe ladders to use on stairs are going to be adjustable A-frame ladders where you can set one side lower or higher than the other to give yourself a sturdy surface for painting.” He recommends Little Giant ladders, which are foldable and adjustable and can support 300 pounds.

Safety Tips for Using Ladders on Stairs

Even after you’ve leveled your ladder, you still face increased risk of falling when using a ladder on stairs. Minimize the risk by following these safety guidelines:

• Check before you climb: Make sure the base is firmly seated on the treads and that the treads aren’t icy or slippery. Leclair warns that, if the stairs are carpeted, you need to verify that the carpet is firmly attached to the floor.
• Have a spotter: The job of the spotter is to hold the ladder if it starts to slip and to pass you tools and materials. If no one else is around, Niemela recommends strapping the ladder to a handrail or wall to prevent slipping.
• Maintain three points of contact: You should have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times.
• Don’t overreach: “I tell my guys: keep the center of your chest between the rails,” says Fuenmayor. “If you’re reaching way out to hit a corner, move the ladder.”
• Follow the one-to-four rule: This tip comes from roofer Robert O’Sullivan: “For every four feet you go up, move the base out one foot.” This stabilizes the ladder and prevents it from falling backward, and it’s especially important when climbing a tall ladder positioned on a stairway.

Alternatives to Ladders for Stair Work

You don’t always need a ladder to get the job done, and some situations are just too dangerous for a ladder. Here are some workarounds:

• Use an extension pole: Painter Brian Kemnitz advises that you can avoid a ladder in many situations — or at least minimize the amount of ladder work you have to do — by using an extension pole for your brush or roller.
• Erect scaffolding: If you’re in a situation that requires moving the ladder repeatedly, you’ll usually work faster and more safely if you rent scaffolding.
• Use a lift: Rent a scissor lift or push-around vertical (PAV) lift to minimize the amount of ladder work you need to get the job done.

FAQ

What type of ladder is best for stairs?

According to our experts, an A-frame ladder with adjustable legs (like the Little Giant) is the best ladder to use for stairs.

About the Experts

• Josh Leclair is a master electrician and the owner of Village Home Services, a business offering electrical, HVAC, and plumbing services.
• Francisco Fuenmayor is an insured handyman currently working as a construction manager at Fran the Handyman and handyman expert at LocalProBook
• Danny Niemela is a professional remodeler and contractor and the Vice President and CFO at ArDan Construction, a luxury home remodeling company in Scottsdale, Arizona
• Carr Lanphier is the CEO of Improovy, an online house painting referral service.
• Robert O’Sullivan is a business owner and roofing and siding contractor at Ranch Roofing Inc. based in Arlington, MA.
• Brian Kemnitz is the owner of Pearl Painters based in Portland, OR.

Sources

• U.S. Occupational and Health Administration: Stairways and Ladders: A Guide to OSHA Rules; (2003)

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Why Are Some Street Lights Turning Purple? The Surprising Reason Explained

Why You Can Ignore Those Threatening Texts From the ‘DMV’

Protecting yourself from scams is an unpleasant necessity in this day and age. There are all kinds of fake text scams going around, from toll text scams to fake package delivery alerts. One of the newest ones out there is a DMV scam text. Recipients report getting text messages about blemishes on their driving record and threats of fines or license suspension. It may be alarming to receive these messages, but with a little due diligence, you can protect yourself and your personal information.

What Is This New DMV Scam Text?

The language in this scam varies slightly from scammer to scammer but the general message is about problems that you supposedly haven’t settled. First National Bank says that the texts are “threatening recipients with license suspension, vehicle registration cancellation, and even prosecution for unpaid fines or violations.”

How Do I Tell if My Text Is Fake?

First National Bank  reports that this DMV scam text has a few key hallmarks:

• The message claims to be from your state’s DMV,
• It uses threatening language and promises consequences like license suspension for unpaid fines,
• it contains links to fraudulent websites where you’re expected to enter your credit card number and other personal information.

Texts like these are designed to spark unease and encourage you to act without thinking. Losing your license is a scary proposition. Plus. if you do have an unpaid ticket, it can be hard to confirm which alerts are real and which are fake. As with any scams, the first thing you should do is check for a few common features. Spelling errors, mismatched sender information, and key words that encourage you to act first and check things later are all red flags.

Fortunately, this scam is a little easier to spot than some of the others. First National Bank states that “no state Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States sends enforcement notices, payment demands, or violation warnings via text message.” Paper notices are different, but you can rest easy knowing that any texts about unpaid fines are scams.

What Do I Do if I’ve Fallen for This Scam?

Mistakes happen. Sometimes we don’t catch warning signs in time. If that’s the case for you, First National Bank says you should contact your bank immediately to warn them about the potential fraudulent charges. You should also pay special attention to your accounts. This way if scammers do try to use your information, you and your bank will be well prepared to stop them. First National Bank also recommends freezing your credit, contacting law enforcement, and reporting the scam at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.

Source

Nationwide DMV Scams Targeting Consumers, First National Bank, 2025.

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“Breaking Bad” Star Aaron Paul’s LA Mansion Is for Sale — Wait Until You See the Price Tag

Browsing the housing market can be fun, even if you’re just window shopping and admiring homes way outside of your budget. If celebrity homes are of interest to you, today’s your lucky day. Aaron Paul’s mansion — dubbed the Seyler House — is one of the latest celebrity homes for sale. It’s listed at roughly $10 million, but even if purchasing it is not in the cards, the house itself is beautiful and has been home to many celebrities over the 100 or so years since it was built.

Who All Has Owned Aaron Paul’s Mansion?

Prior to belonging to the “Breaking Bad” star, Mansion Global reports the Seyler House belonged to several other celebrities, from Tim Curry, Robert Pattinson and Noah Wyle, to the Big Bang Theory actor Jim Parsons. The house’s architect, Stiles O. Clements, even has some Hollywood significance himself: he designed the El Capitan Theater on Hollywood Boulevard.

What Are Some of the Special Features of the Home?

The Seyler House is a three-bedroom home in the Los Feliz neighborhood. Thanks to its lot size, 1.5 acres, the gardens have had plenty of space to flourish. In fact, they date back to the original design of the home. Additionally, “the grounds include a stone bench, a grottoed pool and cold plunge, an amphitheater and a koi pond,” according to Mansion Global.

The mansion is around 4,000 square feet and is a gorgeous example of the Spanish Colonial Revival style. Some of the most eye-catching features include ivy-draped walls, arched windows, stained-glass windows, a black-and-white tiled foyer, and exposed wood-beam ceilings.

Are There Any Modern Features in Aaron Paul’s Mansion?

Much of the home retains its original charm and character, but there have been some modifications. Mansion Global says that Aaron Paul hired the L.A.-based design studio Commune Design to update the home “while maintaining the original details.” These updates include “an eat-in kitchen, a media room and multiple patios.”

So if you happen to have the money available, this home sounds like a dream come true. For the rest of us, it’s a beautiful space to admire and perhaps even draw some inspiration from.

Source

Actor Aaron Paul ‘Breaking’ up With Storied 1920s L.A. House, Mansion Global, 2025.

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10 Tips from Real Estate Pros for Buying Your First Home

Get Your Financial Ducks in Order

A home will probably be one of the biggest purchases in your life, and you’ll be making monthly payments for the next 30 years, so realtor Alexei Morgado recommends upgrading your financial profile before you even start house hunting. He suggests doing the following:

1. Find out where your credit stands, and if it’s less than ideal, look for ways to improve it.
2. Pay down as much outstanding debt as you can.
3. Look for down-payment assistance. “Most first-time buyers are eligible for some form of program in their state or locality and do not take advantage of it.”
4. Look into financial assistance programs for first-time home buyers.

Get Pre-Approved for a Loan

If you’re just starting to look for a house, real estate agent Eli Pasternak identifies pre-approval as an absolute necessity. “I see buyers fall in love with properties they can’t afford and waste months chasing unrealistic dreams.”

By sticking to your budget, you’ll avoid disappointment by confining your search to properties within your budget, but Pasternak recommends even going below budget: “I think that buying below your maximum budget matters way more than getting the biggest house possible because unexpected costs hit hard in the first year.”

Choose a Good Spot

You’ve heard the adage: “Location, location, location,” and there’s a reason. “Location beats house features every time,” says Pasternak. “You can change paint colors, but you cannot change bad schools or long commutes.” You also have no control over climate patterns, like frequent high winds, droughts and heavy snow, that can make living in a particular spot troublesome.

Pasternak suggests that people drive through neighborhoods at different times to see traffic patterns and noise levels. In addition, it’s a good idea to talk to neighbors to see how they like living there.

Understand Your Insurance Options

Your lender will require insurance, but policies aren’t all the same. “A standard policy typically covers the structure of your home, personal belongings and liability, but certain risks like floods and earthquakes require separate coverage,” advises insurance agent Peter Piotrowski.

“Not all home features are covered. Many first-time homebuyers assume that features like swimming pools or detached structures are automatically included in their policy. However, these often require separate endorsements or additional coverage. It’s important to evaluate your home’s location and check with your insurance agent or provider about its potential risks to ensure you have the right protection.”

With the recent increase in catastrophic wildfires, some insurance providers may charge exorbitant rates or limit coverage for fire damage in some areas. That makes it doubly important to shop around and ask lots of questions.

Take Inspections Seriously

At first glance, it may be your dream home, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you rush the inspection and fail to address major issues before closing. “With mortgage interest rates at 6.5% and low inventory, be deliberate and do not rush anything,” advises Morgado. “Negotiate credits for closing and repairs, and do not under any circumstances waive the home inspection.”

This is one of the most important buying first home tips. You’ll have plenty on your hands when you move in without having to worry about a major problem you could have discovered before you assumed responsibility for the property.

Budget for Extra Expenses

Mallorca realtor My Reiderstad advises: “Factor in 10–13% on top of the purchase price for transfer tax or VAT, notary fees, registry fees, legal bills, insurance and inspections.” Of course, if you’re buying a home in North America, you won’t have to worry about transfer tax or VAT, but you will have to pay property taxes, and they can be considerable.

The taxes on my house in California add about $1,000 on to the monthly mortgage payment. In addition, we pay for trash services, utilities and local road maintenance. On top of that, add property maintenance. Ka-ching!

Make Sure No Pending Payments Are Due

You don’t want to move in only to find the previous owner hasn’t paid the utilities for several months or still owes a contractor for work already completed. Having the electricity suddenly switched off or a lien placed on your property is no way to spend the first few months in your new home.

You can usually depend on your agent to take care of these details, but if you’re working on your own, this is one of those buying first home tips that you need to prioritize.

Plan Renovations

Very few homes are truly turnkey. After you and the seller have hashed out the details of necessary repairs revealed by the inspection, you’ll probably want to make more improvements to suit your lifestyle. They could include:

• new flooring;
• updated appliances;
• electrical upgrades;
• new paint.

You may want to complete some of these renovations before you move in, especially if you’re replacing flooring or repainting the interior. If so, do yourself a favor and have contractors accompany you during the inspections, so you can get estimates and plan your budget.

Think Long-Term

“Life changes even if it is your ‘forever home’,” says Daniel Cabrera, who buys distressed homes in Texas. You may get a job in a different city, a family issue may force you to move, or you may just decide you want to move for different reasons.

If you have to sell, you want to get the best price, and that means being prepared to address issues that are likely to arise—particularly safety and code issues—that could lower the resale value. “Think roofs, heating/cooling systems and appliances, which all deteriorate over time. Budget for replacements.”

You may also want to add features, like a deck or garage, to make the property more desirable. Factor in the potential costs before you make an offer.

Gather Essential Items for Move-In Day

Pasternak has this advice: “I tell new homeowners to buy a good toolbox, fire extinguisher and basic cleaning supplies before move-in day. You’ll need a plunger immediately, trust me on that one.” The other things you’ll need to include are some or all of the items on this list:

• Basic furniture (unless you like sitting on the floor);
• Trash cans;
• Bedding and towels;
• Toiletries;
• Basic kitchen supplies.

Don’t forget the small stuff, like batteries for smoke alarms, a hex wrench for clearing the garbage disposal and house keys that fit the locks. “We get calls all the time that keys don’t work,” says broker Jeff Lichtenstein.

About the Experts

• Eli Pasternak is a licensed Florida real estate agent, an experienced investor and the Founder of Liberty House Buying Group.
• Jeff Lichtenstein became a real estate agent in 2000. Today he is the owner and broker of Echo Fine Properties, a luxury residential brokerage, based in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
• Peter Piotrowski is Chief Claims Officer at Hippo, the home insurance group focused on proactive home protection.
• Daniel Cabrera is the Founder of both Sell My House Fast SA TX and Fire Damage House Buyer. He has dedicated over a decade to assisting homeowners nationwide in navigating the complexities of selling their properties.
• Alexei Morgado is a licensed real estate agent and Realtor based in Florida. He’s the founder of Lexawise, a preparation platform dedicated to helping new agents and brokers ace their licensing exams.
• My Reiderstad is the CEO and Project Manager of Reiderstad Invest, a premier real estate agency established in 2012, with offices in Mallorca and Crans-Montana.

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The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist for New Homeowners

Kitchen

Deep clean appliances

Do a deep clean of all kitchen appliances, including dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens and stove tops. Run the dishwasher with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack, then wipe down the interior. Wipe down all interior refrigerator surfaces and pull it away from the wall to vacuum the coils on the back of the unit. Deep clean the oven and run a self-cleaning cycle if available.

Cost: $10

Bathroom

Check for leaks

Inspect underneath the vanity, behind the toilet and around the tub or shower for active plumbing leaks and have these repaired. “If there are leaks underneath the sink, then you’ve got the perfect breeding ground for mold spores. You may not notice the mold growth for a while, so it’s important to check before major damage occurs,” Sacenti says.

Cost: Free

Recaulk tub

Inspect the existing caulk. If it is discolored or worn, remove it and replace it to prevent water from getting behind the walls.

Cost: $15

Clean and check the exhaust fan

Clean the exhaust fan cover with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup. Also, make sure it is working properly. “Turn it on and go outside to feel that air is coming out of the terminal,” Saltzman says “This checks for disconnected ducts or dampers that have been blocked by wasp or birds nests.”

Cost: Free

Basement

Check sump pump

If your basement has a sump pump, test that it’s working. “Sump pumps will fail without warning, so test it annually,” Saltzman says. “In a perfect world, have a back-up system or a water alarm to let you know it has failed.”

Cost: Free

Inspect for mold or moisture

Visually inspect your basement or crawl space for mold and check to ensure your dehumidifier is functioning properly.”Mold in a home often starts in the basement, then moves up through the house,” Sacenti says. ” A functioning dehumidifier is one of the best defenses against a moldy basement.”

Cost: Free

Look for evidence of termites

Termites can quickly cause serious damage to a home’s wood structures, so visually inspect your basement and look for signs of termite damage like mud channels on walls, swarms of flying termites or piles of discarded wings. Contact a pest control company if you see these signs around your home.

Cost: Free

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system

Service HVAC equipment

Furnaces, boilers and air conditioners should be professionally inspected and serviced each year. “Regular maintenance improves efficiency and reduces the potential for breakdowns,” Saltzman says. “Plus, a lot of manufacturers require annual maintenance to honor their warranty.”

Cost: $150 to $200

Laundry room

Clean dryer vent

Lint build-up in the duct poses a fire risk, so “it’s important to have your dryer duct cleaned annually,” Saltzman says. “Sometimes it’s a DIY project, other times it’s best to hire a professional, depending on your comfort level and the location of the duct.”

Cost: Free to DIY, $10 per linear foot for professional service.

Attic

Check for mold and moisture

Inspect the attic for signs of moisture and mold on the rafters and roof sheathing. “I go into attics that are covered in mold and the homeowner had no idea,” Sacenti says. “It’s good to poke your head up there once in a while.” If you see signs of mold, call a mold remediation company to assess the cause and determine a remedy.

Cost: Free

Check air vents

Roof air vents are critical to the longevity of your roof, as they allow hot air to escape from the attic. They also provide air circulation to prevent mold and moisture. You may have soffit vents, which can be blown out with a shop vac or air compressor. Visually inspect that the gable and box vents are free of debris and animal nests.

Cost: Free

Roof

Visually inspect for damage

Inspect your roof, looking for loose, broken or missing shingles or areas of moss, and repair damaged shingles or hire a roofing company. Gently scrape moss from the roof, then treat it with a mold-killing solution for roofs and give a final rinse. Pay for a professional roof inspection if you can’t see all of your roof from the ground.

Cost: Free

Clean gutters

“Keep your gutters clean, and use downspout extensions to move that water away from the foundation,” Sacenti says. To reach your gutters and remove debris, you’ll need a ladder, gloves and a trash bag. Consider hiring a pro if high ladder work is required.

Cost: Free if DIY’d, $1 per linear foot for professional service.

Deck

Clean and seal

Clean wood decks once a year with a deck cleaning product and a scrub brush or power washer. Let dry for 48 hours, sand with 80-grit sandpaper and apply a wood sealer. Painted or stained decks should not need to be refinished every year, but they will still benefit from a good cleaning with mild detergent and a hose.

Cost: $75 for a 12×12 deck.

Lawn/Garden

Fertilize, aerate and overseed

Aerate, fertilize and overseed your lawn each year in the fall to keep it looking its best. Aerate first, then fertilize in early fall. Wait a few weeks to overseed. Rent an aerator from a home center for the task.

Cost: $100 to $150 for aerator rental; $300 to $500 to fertilize and overseed an average lawn

Maintain lawn equipment

Sharpen lawn mower blades, change the oil in two-stroke engines, clean or replace the air filter and add gas stabilizer before storing lawn equipment for the winter.

Cost: $25

Winterize sprinkler systems and outside spigots

For sprinklers, turn off the main sprinkler water valve, shut off power to the sprinkler controller and blow out any remaining water from each line with an air compressor. Place some insulation in the valve box. For spigots, turn off the water valve, drain the spigot and cover with an insulated faucet cover.

Cost: $5 per faucet cover to DIY; $100 to $150 for professional services.

Driveway

Repair, clean and seal

Fill any driveway cracks with crack filler and repair damaged or sinking areas in your concrete or asphalt driveway. To protect and seal the surface, apply driveway sealer to asphalt driveways.

Cost: About 15 to 25 cents per square foot to DIY; 20 to 25 cents per square foot for professional services.

Garage

Lubricate the garage door

Wipe down the track with a clean rag. Apply lithium or silicone-based lubricant to the hinges, rollers, springs and the top rail and arm bar. Wipe off any excess and run the door up and down a few times to work the lubricant into all moving parts.

Cost: $10

About the Experts

• Reuben Saltzman is the owner and CEO of Structure Tech, a home inspection company in St. Louis Park, Minnesota.
• Michael Sacenti owns American Healthy Homes. He has 10 years of experience in the mold remediation industry and 40 years experience in real estate maintenance.

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Watch out, This Popular Garden Hose Is Injuring People

Summer means pool time and playing in the water. Plus, your garden needs water year-round. A hose is the most practical tool to bring water to all your yard-based activities. Even if you don’t have a pool or a garden, there are a plethora of other outdoor activities that merit the use of a hose. But if you purchased a new water hose in the last couple of years, you may be in danger. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) recently announced a recall of millions of water hoses because they pose a risk to consumers’ health and safety. Find out if yours is on the list and how to protect yourself if you own one of the recalled water hoses.

Why Are These Hoses Dangerous?

Water hoses might seem benign, especially the ones designed for home and garden use. Typically, they don’t produce enough pressure to do any damage. They’ll put out a good spray, but not anywhere near the amount of pressure that a fire hose puts out. But so far, there have been over 200 reports of Winston Products’ hoses bursting. According to the USCPSC report, these incidents have resulted in 29 injuries so far, “including one bone bruise, two sprains and five reports of temporarily impaired hearing from the sound of the hose bursting.”

Which Hoses Are Being Recalled?

According to the USCPSC report, over 3.6 million water hoses are being recalled. If you own a Winston Products HydroTech 5/8-inch Expandable Burst-Proof Hose, yours might be one of them. You’ll need to check the date code on it against the list in the recall announcement. Per the USCPSC, “hoses with no markings or a marking ending in -211, -212, -213, -214, -221, -222, -223, -224, -231, -232, -233, -234, -241, -242 or -243 are included in this recall.” The recall brief also clarifies that “on some hose packages, the manufacture date is listed in the month-year format. For example, 0824 is August 2024 and is included in this recall.”

Is There a Proposed Fix?

Currently, Winston Products’ solution is to refund customers. If you own one of the water hoses being recalled, stop using it immediately. In order to obtain your refund, you need to do one of two things. If you purchased your hose from Ace Hardware, Do It Best, Home Depot or Walmart, you have it easy. The USCPSC says you should bring your hose to the store to get your refund. If you purchased your hose from some other retailer, the instructions are different. In these cases, you need to cut off the regulator-end of your hose and reach out to Winston Products instead. The brief specifies that in order to receive the refund, “consumers should submit photos of the cut hose, showing the date code location with the consumer’s initials and the date written in permanent marker on the regulator, to Winston Product’s online form at https://hydrotechproducts.com/recall.”

Source

Winston Products Recalls 5/8-Inch HydroTech Expandable Burst-Proof Hoses Due to Risk of Impact Hazard and Temporarily Impaired Hearing, CPSC, 2025

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The Best Way to Remove Bird Poop When a Car Wash Isn’t Enough

8 Small Appliance Storage Ideas for the Ultimate Organized Kitchen

Appliance Garage

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_dNdHlRwAE/

Probably the most popular solution for small appliances is the appliance garage, like this one from @katrinaporterdesigns. The appliances conveniently slide in and out of the countertop cabinet and are concealed when not in use with pocket doors. Other door styles include roll-up or flip-up doors.

What We Like About It: “Electrical outlets are situated inside of appliance garages so there’s no need to relocate the appliance once the door is opened,” says kitchen design expert Thomas Borcherding.

Designated Cabinet

If you’re not lucky enough to have an appliance garage, or extra space in the pantry; all you need is an empty cabinet. As shown here from @ms.cynthiiaa, designating a lower cabinet for appliances will keep them all neatly tucked away in one place.

What We Like About It: Storing appliances in an existing cabinet is an easy solution for anyone and doesn’t require any expensive renovations. “If you’re not building [an appliance garage], make sure you’ve got at least one deep base cabinet that’s appliance-friendly,” says Summers.

Kitchen Cart

If your cabinets are already full, invest in a kitchen cart, like this one from @christine__cameron. It can hold appliances, serving dishes, and maybe even some wine. Roll it around to different locations as needed. The best part is you don’t have to sacrifice any counter or cabinet space.

What We Like About It: “Rolling kitchen islands with internal vertical storage, such as open shelving, are great solutions when trying to house your countertop appliances,” says Borcherding. And it’s a smart solution for renters who can’t make any structural changes to the kitchen.

Organize Small Accessories

When finding a space for your small appliances, don’t forget about all the accessories that come with each one. This cabinet from @simplicityandstylehome features acrylic bins (labeled, of course!) to separate all the small blender attachments and other small parts that can easily get lost.

What We Like About It: The clear bins are nice and deep to maximize the depth of the cabinet, so there’s no wasted space.

@rootddesignstudio Pro tip! Sick of your counters being cluttered with small appliances? Incorporate a hidden door in your cabinetry design to easily store them away. #kitchencabinets #appliancegarage #appliancestorage #kitchenremodel #designprotips #kitchenmakeover #cabinetmakeover #kitchenorganizationstoragehacks ♬ we fell in love in october – girl in red

Hidden Door

When stored in a cabinet, you have to pull the appliance out the front, then move it near a wall plug. This idea from @rootddesignstudio shows a more convenient option. The hidden door on the side of the cabinet makes it easy to scoot the appliance out in seconds.

What We Like About It: This hidden door is perfect for small appliances that are used often. Summers says to “make sure everything is reachable without needing a step stool if you use it more than twice a week.”

@frontlinediy Check out this IKEA billy bookcase hack With lumber so expensive Ikea furniture can often be a good substitute. I used a $39 billy book case and turned it into a built in appliance cabinet for my pantry. I added 1×2 primed pine boards as trim and used spackle to fill those awful shelf pin holes. Make sure you wipe excess spackle with a baby wipe before it dries so that you don’t have to sand or paint. If you need to adjust the shelves in the future the spackle can just be dug out with a small screw driver. What’s your favorite Ikea Hack? Stay tuned for more DIY tips and tricks! #frontlinediy #diy #diypantry #diypantryreno #diymom #ikeahack #billybookcasehack #billybookcase #appliancegarage #diyprojects #diyideas #diyhome #easydiy #interiordesign #diys #home #reels #diyvideos #diyer #diyvideo ♬ BILLIE EILISH. – Armani White

Bookshelf Hack

Watch as @frontlinediy transforms an affordable BILLY bookcase from IKEA into the perfect small appliance storage solution. Place the bookcase in your pantry or another nearby room, adjust the shelves to custom-fit each appliance, then fill in the adjustable shelf holes for a more built-in look.

What We Like About It: “Don’t feel as though countertop appliances must be situated inside of your kitchen,” says Borcherding. “It’s common to house countertop appliances in adjacent rooms when space in the kitchen is lacking.”

@frontlinediy Check out this IKEA billy bookcase hack With lumber so expensive Ikea furniture can often be a good substitute. I used a $39 billy book case and turned it into a built in appliance cabinet for my pantry. I added 1×2 primed pine boards as trim and used spackle to fill those awful shelf pin holes. Make sure you wipe excess spackle with a baby wipe before it dries so that you don’t have to sand or paint. If you need to adjust the shelves in the future the spackle can just be dug out with a small screw driver. What’s your favorite Ikea Hack? Stay tuned for more DIY tips and tricks! #frontlinediy #diy #diypantry #diypantryreno #diymom #ikeahack #billybookcasehack #billybookcase #appliancegarage #diyprojects #diyideas #diyhome #easydiy #interiordesign #diys #home #reels #diyvideos #diyer #diyvideo ♬ BILLIE EILISH. – Armani White

Mixer Lift

Retrofit one of your lower cabinets to include a hinged appliance lift, as seen here from @designdazzle. The heavy mixer is hidden away, and the spring-loaded system gently lifts the mixer up to counter height when it’s time to do some baking. Simply push it back inside when you’re done.

What We Like About It: “A deep cabinet with a pull-out shelf works wonders, especially for heavier items like stand mixers. Bonus points if it’s close to an outlet,” says Summers.

@nicoles.home.travels Just installed this pull out drawer system for my kitchen appliances pantry! In love 😍😍 #pantryorganization #pantryorganisation #pantrystorage #kmartfinds #kmarthacks ♬ Do It To It – ACRAZE

Pull-Out Drawers

When stored in a cabinet, it can be difficult to pull out an awkward or bulky appliance without bumping into things. These pull out drawers (demonstrated here from @nicoles.home.travels) make it easier, helping you smoothly pull out the appliance before lifting it.

What We Like About It: Wire pull-out drawers like these can be installed in any cabinet, and they’re much more affordable than built-in custom cabinet features.

About the Experts

• Thomas Borcherding is the Owner and Lead Designer at Homestar Design Remodel, a residential remodeling contracting firm with in-house design services and installation. Thomas is a professional kitchen and bathroom designer and a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
• Melanie Summers is a storage and organization expert and owner of I Speak Organized, where she offers professional organizing services. Specializing in ADHD organizing and productivity, Melanie transforms spaces and lives.

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11 Things to Consider When Buying a New Bathtub

Tub Shape

How comfortable is your current bathtub? Choose a shape and slope that match your needs (don’t be afraid to hop in a display tub to see how it feels). This is also a chance to choose a different style for your new tub, if you can accommodate any necessary plumbing changes. Oval and round tubs are more modern, while rectangular tubs are more traditional.

New Bathtub Weight

If you want to upgrade your bathtub, remember to calculate the weight of the new bathtub, and if the floor can handle it without new structural supports. It’s wise to have a professional inspection if you aren’t sure about the numbers, like the standard tub height, too.

Walls and Corners

How many walls will surround your bathtub? This dictates the range of designs and styles you can choose from. If your tub is surrounded by three walls (common with shower/tub combos), you have fewer choices. And if the tub is against only one wall, you can expand more easily.

Tub Height and Depth

First, consider the tub height relative to the floor. An inset tub can be installed into the floor, which makes it a little easier to step into and may save on space. On the other hand, more elaborate bathtubs surrounds may require an elevated tub. Always make sure you have enough structural support for your plans. Second, consider how deep the tub should be. For example, deeper tubs fit for soaking are typically 18 to 22 inches deep, depending on the style.

Core Materials

What will the core and inner surface of your new bathtub be made of? Common tubs usually have an acrylic or fiberglass construction that keeps the interior as hollow as possible to reduce weight. And sturdier, heavier tubs may use metal and enamel. Luxurious modern tubs can even be made with natural stone or concrete, although this is a particularly heavy and expensive option. The sturdier the material, the more easily the tub will resist damage.

Finishing Materials

What will the outside of your new bathtub look like? You don’t need to keep the same appearance as the inner surface. And you can tile around the front of your tub or build out a space with stone highlights. But just remember to use high-quality sealant in this moisture-prone area.

Faucets and Fixtures

This is also your chance to upgrade new bathtub faucets, knobs, drains and other components. And take this opportunity to choose fixtures that complement your new styles. Brushed metal has become more popular as it hides water stains more easily.

Shelves and Storage

How much shelf space do you need around your new bathtub for soap, oils, candles, speakers and other important tub accessories? Does your tub design include enough shelf space, or do you need to add tile shelves?

Drain and Pipe Placement

From a plumbing perspective, drain and pipe placement are particularly important when choosing or customizing a new bathtub. Moving a drain is a more expensive process and may be difficult, so it’s smart to find a tub with a matching drain placement. If you have a tub/shower combination, showerhead placement is also important.

Accessibility and Safety

Make sure that the new bathtub includes any important rails and grips. It’s also a good idea to choose a non-slick bottom for the tub to help prevent slipping and other accidents.

Durability

With proper care, even an acrylic tub can last for many years. However, materials like acrylic and fiberglass are the most vulnerable to damage, and you may need to refinish the tub periodically. Enamel coatings can help improve longevity, but you may want to choose more durable core materials if the new bathtub will see a lot of use.

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Installing a Floor Transition Strip in 5 Easy Steps

Choose your flooring transition strip

Flooring transition strips come in many varieties of materials (wood, metal, plastic, etc.) and installation types (self-adhesive, glue-down, nail-down, etc.), but most fall into three categories: thresholds, reducers, and T-moldings.

• Thresholds, sometimes referred to as baby thresholds or endcaps, are used at doorways between rooms with flooring of the same height, creating a smooth, low-profile transition. They’re commonly used around sliding doors, fireplaces, and other spaces where a clean edge is needed.
• T-molding transition strips (shaped like the letter “T”) are used when two flooring surfaces of the same height meet. They are perfect when flooring runs in different directions or between different materials of the same thickness.
• Reducer molding is used when transitioning between two floors of different heights, creating a smooth, ramp-like transition from a higher floor to a lower one to prevent tripping hazards.

Choosing the right transition strip in the correct color is crucial to the success of your floor project.

Determine the length

With a measuring tape, determine the length of the area where the transition strip will be installed. Whether a doorway or a room opening, you want a nice fit without a gap at either end when installed.

Cut the transition strip

Mark your transition strip at the predetermined measurement of your opening. Use a pencil to mark the length on the transition piece so you can easily erase it before installing. Use a Speed square to ensure the line of your measurement is square.

Cut it to length using a miter saw (or hand saw) with the appropriate blade for the transition strip material. When cutting, use a sacrificial piece of wood to support the plastic transition strips.

If your transition strip consists of two plastic parts, a top cap and a channel, it is best to cut them together at the same time. To do this safely and effectively, tape them together using painter’s tape, making sure the top cap and the channel don’t slip out of place when cutting. Remove the tape after cutting and before installing.

Dry-fit the transition strip

Dry-fit the transition strip into place to ensure it looks good and seats nicely. This step is especially crucial if your recommended installation method uses adhesive, and it will avoid a mess if you need to cut more off for a good fit.

If your transition strip is installed in a doorway, you’ll want it to be centered directly underneath the closed door. That said, moving it forward or backward so it is centered might require notching the transition strip around the door stop with a jigsaw or undercutting the door stop with a multitool. If the door won’t clear the new transition height, you may need to trim the bottom of the door.

Install the transition strip

Install the transition strip using the manufacturer’s recommended fasteners, adhesive, or screws/nails depending on your installation type.

For adhesive installation, apply a continuous bead of flooring adhesive along the bottom of the transition strip channel. Then, gently slide the transition strip into position, ensuring it is flush with the surrounding floor surfaces. Maintain a 1/4-inch expansion gap between the flooring and the adhered part of the transition strip.

For screw or nail installation, pre-drill pilot holes if needed and fasten according to the manufacturer’s specifications. For two-piece transition strips, install the channel first, then snap the top piece into place. Use a wet rag to wipe off any excess adhesive that may have squeezed out along the sides or end of the transition strip before it sets and dries.

Allow the adhesive to dry for the recommended time before walking on it.

FAQ

Do you need transition strips between rooms with the same flooring?

No, you don’t need transition strips between rooms with the same flooring, using them anyway is often recommended to allow for expansion and contraction of the flooring.

Are there transition strips for tile?

Yes, there are transition strips for tile.  Most tile transition strips are made of metal and must be installed at the time the tile installer places the last tiles that will land on the opening. Tile transition strips are usually embedded under the tile floor and secured with the same mastic used to secure the tiles. Be sure to do your research and follow manufacturer’s suggestions for transitions strips at the time of purchasing your tiles.

Do all transition strips come in two parts? A channel and a top cap?

No, some transition strips come in two parts: a channel (Base) and a top cap. Some transition strips come as one piece. Two-part transition strips tend to be more expensive, more durable and are easier to change out without damaging the channel.

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