The days are getting longer, the weather is heating up andpeople everywhere are anxiously preparing for summer. As familiesget ready for more time at home over summer break, you may noticean increased number of home improvement projects going on in yourneighborhood. Couples are moving into new homes, fresh coats ofpaint are drying and endless “honey-do” lists are being passed fromwives to husbands.

This year, be sure to take advantage of the ways in which yourexisting home technology can make these projects easier – from tipsand techniques to ordering directly online. The following tips showyou how to effectively finish your home improvements withtechnology tools you may already own.

Home improvement websites: The Internet is chock full ofinformation and services you can use to simplify your latestprojects. Home improvement websites such as doityourself.com andthisoldhouse.com offer extensive, detailed information oneverything from installing hardwood floors to sewing customdraperies. Visit these sites to learn the techniques to completeyour projects and even watch how-to instructional videos. Messageboards and expert tips posted on these sites are also great ways tolearn what works … and what doesn’t.

Home improvement shows: Many people are surprised to find thattheir existing satelliteTV service offers channels specifically devoted to homeimprovement such as HGTV and the DIY (Do It Yourself) Network.These channels feature entertaining programming that can be helpfulin garnering ideas for your latest project. Similar toinstructional videos found online, shows on these networks offeradvice and tips while at the same time presenting the instructionin a fun, enjoyable way.

Home improvement stores: National chains like Lowe’s and HomeDepot offer a variety of services online that make renovationeasier than ever before. Through their websites, home owners areable to reserve tools and equipment, request expert advice on arange of topics, and even browse specific items carried in thestores. Gathering information and planning your shopping listbefore you visit one of these massive warehouses makes the tripfaster and eliminates much of the guesswork.

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

Summer is the perfect time to tackle that home improvementproject you’ve been meaning to finish for months. With thousands ofresources and experts available in any given area, it’s a shame notto make the most of the technology you already own. By employing afew of these helpful hints, you’ll be sure to complete your projectlike pro and have your home improved in time for Labor Day.

Courtesy of ARAcontent