With spring officially here and summer close behind, lawn and garden projects are in full swing. Whether you’re revamping your landscaping or working on your lawn, now is the time to think through how your yard can positively impact the environment. One important element of a more sustainable yard is water conservation. Below, we provide some helpful tips you can use to reduce the ecological footprint of your yard.

What is a rainscape?

A rainscape is simply landscaping that is intentionally designed to conserve water and protect water quality. Rainscaping helps reduce stormwater runoff from your property by putting it to work in more productive ways. There are many options for implementing rainscaping into your residential property – while you might not be able to make all these changes at once, it’s never too late to get started by choosing one project to make your yard more eco-friendly.

1. Add rain gardens

Rain gardens are a fun DIY rainscaping addition to your yard that helps collect and purify rainwater rather than allowing it to pick up chemicals and pollutants as it flows on a straight path to the sewer system. The best spot for a rain garden will depend on your yard – the next time it storms, look out the window to see where rainwater runoff exists. Often, water runoff travels down hardscaping like driveways and decks or builds at the end of downspouts. By diverting this runoff with a pipe or path of river rock to a shallow depression at least 10ft from your house, you can easily create a rain garden that has an added benefit of protecting your home’s foundation from pooling water. Learn how to build a rain garden here.

2. Harvest rainwater

One of the easiest rainscaping ideas to use at your home is to collect rainwater runoff from a roof or other surface. By channeling your downspouts to stormwater runoff rain barrels, you can store rainwater to replace a large amount of your water needs. This environmentally responsible choice gives you more control over your organic water supply and can add up to significant cost savings, especially if you are paying for city water for landscaping needs.

3. Landscape without water

Landscaping for your location can be tricky, especially if you live in a dry climate where plants can require a lot of supplemental water to survive. No-water and low-water landscaping allows you to rainscape even if your location doesn’t see much rainfall because you are intentionally conserving water. The first step is to choose plants that can tolerate drought – looking up a list of plants native to your state or region is the easiest place to start. Its also important to think about the density of plants in a landscaping bed. When plants are permitted to run up to one another, the soil is shaded from heat and sun, preventing moisture from evaporating too quickly.

4. Make your lawn drought tolerant

To survive dry spells, your lawn needs a deep root system. While it is tempting to run a sprinkler on a consistent schedule or at the first sign of any wilting grass, it is better to wait to water your lawn when closer to 50 percent of the grass is wilting. Once these conditions are met, you want to give your lawn a thorough soak of 1/2-3/4 inches, but make sure to stop before creating any wasteful run-off. By giving your grass a long watering only when it absolutely needs it, you are helping establish a deep root system that will develop more and more drought tolerance and require less and less watering.

 

Another management tip to motivate your grass to develop deep roots is to never mow grass shorter than its highest recommended height. Longer blades of grass have more surface area to photosynthesize and store energy to endure drought. If these methods don’t work and you still find yourself having to frequently water your lawn, it might be time to reduce the amount of turf in your yard. Native gardens and groundcovers are a more sustainable use of your property, and there are lots of creative ways to reduce lawn space in a way that is beautiful and appealing from the curb.

5. Create a rain swale

Water that quickly runs over the surface of your yard or driveway on its way to the sewer collects pollutants rather than benefitting the ecology. Rain swales are a rainscaping tool that slows water down and spreads water out, giving it a chance to actually sink into the soil. You can create a rain swale by digging a shallow ditch where water runoff typically builds in your yard. Line the depression with material like gravel, native plants and mulch that will help filter water. Rain swales can be a fascinating focal point for your yard that creates year-round aesthetic interest.

6. Move to permeable pavement

You’ve likely noticed a rainscaping theme: reduce rainwater runoff. Impervious pavement like cement and blacktop are the most common surfaces for residential driveways, patios and sidewalks, but they act as a slide that moves valuable rainwater away from the soil and into the sewer. If you are adding or replacing any hard surfaces outside your home, look for porous, permeable options that filter rain runoff into the soil beneath. For example, a patio with a sub-base of gravel and topped with permeable pavers is a much more eco-friendly option than pouring an impervious concrete slab.

While the options above only scratch the surface of the many ways to add rainscaping features that conserve water outdoors, we hope they inspire you to make a small step towards a more environmentally friendly landscape. For all things home improvement and DIY, check out the Schlage blog, Instagram and Pinterest!

 

A quick front porch makeover is an easy way to boost your curb appeal – but what if you could update your front porch in a way that benefits the environment and looks beautiful? Enter front porch container gardens. No matter how much space or effort you can commit, container gardens are a fun way to add value to your front porch. A little intentionality and knowledge can go a long way in making your front porch a welcoming place for human guests as well as the birds, bees and butterflies that balance your ecosystem.

 

Use the following steps to assemble a container garden both you and your environment can enjoy!

1. Plan your front porch container garden

Start by taking a quick inventory of your front porch space and the amount of time you are willing to put into your container garden. Even one small, simple plant pot can add visual interest and environmental value. Then, decide what is most important to you when it comes to your container garden – do you want color? a variety of plants and textures? are there particular critters you are wanting to attract (or ward off)? Once you have a general idea of what you want, it’s time to pick the perfect containers and plants to suit your vision. When picking plants, be sure to pay attention to what kind of soil, drainage, watering and sun each variety requires to ensure your chosen plants can thrive in your specific front porch conditions.

How to choose plants for your container garden that help the environment

The easiest way to know your container garden is helping the environment is to choose native plants. Native plants are those that occur naturally in your area without human introduction. In contrast, exotic plants that were brought into your region from distant areas are less likely to support the wildlife in your ecosystem and may even be invasive, causing harm by taking over natural habitats and choking out native plants. Other bonuses of native plants are that they are likely to thrive in the conditions specific to your area and often require less supplemental watering while being more resistant to common pests.

 

When picking native plants for your container garden, it’s up to your preference if you want use one or multiple plants per pot. A good rule of thumb if you want a variety of plants in one pot is to pick three plants with similar maintenance needs following the thriller, filler, spiller method.

 

Thriller – a tall plant. When choosing a thriller, look for a plant that grows an appropriate height for your chosen planter and provides interesting textures, foliage and/or flowers to serve as your focal point. For most containers, you will want avoid plants that grow taller than 2ft.

 

Filler – a plant that fills the pot. Fillers add mass to your container and are a fun option for playing with a new texture or foliage color. 

 

Spiller – a plant that spills out over the edge of the pot. Finding a plant that will create some drama by draping over the side of your pot will create the final layer for your perfect container garden combination. 

 

Native plants are often sold at garden centers, and many states have a native plant society or organization with lots of resources to help you plant a more environmentally friendly garden. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center has extensive lists to help you find plants native to your state as well as a Native Plants Database to help you identify and learn about native plants. The Audubon at Home program also provides a helpful resource on Captivating Containers with Native Plants that includes extensive information on container gardening with native plants as well as lists of plants and plant combinations that tend to succeed when planted in containers. 

2. Planting an eco-friendly container garden: pot size, soil and spacing

Once you have identified a few native plants to use in your container garden, it’s time to pick out a pot for planting. While its easy to pick a container based on aesthetics alone, there are a few other important considerations. Make sure your pot has adequate drainage and is made of a material that works with your space. For example, concrete and ceramic planters can be heavy and difficult to move around while plastic and metal planters are long-lasting and lighter weight. If you like the look of one plant per pot, grouping multiple smaller pots together can have a very pleasing effect, as seen in this example from @simplysoutherncottage. Just be aware that smaller pots often require more frequent watering. If you decided to follow the thriller, filler, spiller method, pick a big container that will give your plants ample space and minimize the need for frequent watering.

 

It is important to choose the right potting material for your front porch planter. Container gardening is unique in that your plants are confined to a closed system; they can’t send roots out to find nutrients or water. Look for a potting mix that drains easily while still retaining moisture – this will allow adequate air supply to plant roots and prevent the soil from becoming too densely compacted over time. Depending on the size of your pot, you may want to add a layer of gravel at the bottom to help maintain drainage and prevent soil from washing out when you water. 

 

When filling your pot with soil, leave at least an inch of space between the top line of the soil and the top of the pot – this provides a shallow well that helps make watering easier. Space plants evenly with your thriller plant at the back so that it doesn’t block your filler and spiller plants in the front. Once planted, make sure all roots are covered with a thin layer of soil so that they can retain moisture. Now that your container garden is planted, you can enjoy watching each plant fill out space in the pot and begin to thrive!

3. Maintaining your front porch container garden

Watering is a necessary task for keeping your container garden healthy. How much and how frequently to water will depend on your plant selection and weather conditions. If your planters aren’t under a porch, they will get rain and require less supplemental watering. Keep an eye on your plants during particularly dry, hot and windy days as water will evaporate faster in such conditions. To check if your container needs water, dig with your finger to see if there is moisture an inch or two beneath the surface. If it is dry a few inches down, that is a good sign to go ahead and water. When watering, fully soak the soil – you want to avoid having the soil wet at the top of the pot and dry at the bottom. Water until a trickle of water just starts from the drainage holes – make sure to stop at this point to avoid flushing nutrients out of the soil. 

 

Most often, native plants do not require fertilizer, but if your plants start to wilt and yellow even with appropriate watering, temperature and light conditions, you may want to carefully use a fertilizer to ensure your plants have all the nutrients they need.

 

As your plants mature, pick off dead foliage and trim faster growing plants so they do not overwhelm the space. Trimming plants so that they don’t run into each other will help maintain a clean aesthetic and definition. This also helps plants stay full and healthy. To maximize the positive impact your container garden has on the environment, leave spent flowers so that birds have a chance to gather remaining seeds (don’t deadhead).

 

If you planted native perennials, you have the joy of a container garden that will return year after year. How to over winter your container garden will depend on the conditions of your climate. Because native perennials are perfectly suited for your region, most of the time they are hearty enough to withstand the coldest seasons you encounter. In abnormally cold or harsh conditions, shelter your container garden by insulating it with blankets or a thick layer of leaves behind a wind shield (moving your pot next to a south wall is usually easiest) or simply move your containers into a garage or shed where they will be out of the worst conditions. Once the weather returns to averages for the season, you can move pots back to their home base so they are ready to come alive in the spring.

Hopefully these quick tips help you refresh your porch into a space that feels more beautiful and welcoming than ever – and all while helping support the health of the environment! For more fun front door refresh ideas and all things home DIY and design, make sure to check out our blog, Instagram and Pinterest. 

 

Are you excited when you get to work from home or worried about what it’s going to do to your productivity? Some of us see it as the perfect opportunity to wear sweatpants. All. Day. Long. Others not so much.

 

Whichever camp you fall in, you might be wondering where you’re going to get your work done if you don’t have a dedicated office. Or, if you have kids at home during the workday, you’re trying to figure out how to maintain productive boundaries. Below are a few home office ideas for where you can create a work zone and the items you’ll need to get work done when remote. 

Small spaces for your home office

When you don’t have an extra room to dedicate to a home office, you might need to get a bit creative. Look for small hideaways that will give you the workspace and privacy you need to stay on top of business.

 

• Under the stairs: You never knew what to do with that awkward, empty space anyway. Now’s your chance to turn it into the nook of your dreams. If it feels claustrophobic to you, reserve that space for the kids’ homework zone.

• Under a window: This is ideal if your window sill is at just the right height. Add a plank or something similar to give yourself a larger surface to work on. This setup also has the bonus of extra natural lighting.

• In the kitchen: The 1990s loved these kitchen/office combos. Now might be a prime time to bring them back.

• In the closet: We gave this tip for creating a family command center, but it’s equally effective in this situation. If you or your kiddos struggle with distractions, this might be a nice tucked-away option to help stay focused.

• In a corner: Do you have a room with a random house plant jammed in the corner? Test it out as an office by adding a small table and chair. It’s not fancy and it might not be ideal for the long-term, but you never know until you try.

Large spaces

If you’re lucky enough to have more square footage, you have more flexibility. Try these home office ideas if you need to share workspace with a partner or the kids.

 

• Guest room: You don’t have to give up your guest room to have an office. These tips for creating the ultimate combination space will work for everyone.

• Long wall: Line up a couple tables or pull out the buffet you only use for your Super Bowl party. A long and sleek desk can look chic and is ideal if there’s more than one of you trying to get work done at home.

• Shed: Get out of the house without breaking quarantine by setting up a work station in the backyard. Maybe it’s a she-shed. Maybe it’s the garage. A little extra space and privacy might do everyone some good.

Storage spaces

Especially if your new desk doesn’t have drawers or you’re missing the filing cabinet you have at work, you might need to find some alternative storage solutions. Repurposing items from other areas in the house is a handy option when you can’t get out to buy organizers.

 

• Overhead shelving: Consider hanging floating shelves. If you’re looking for a bigger DIY project – off the clock, of course – hang crates or boxes for effective storage and some visual interest.

• Bar cart: Instead of beverages, you’ll have someplace to set your office supplies and files without taking up valuable space on your work surface. This is ideal if your new desk is more on the petite side.
  
  
• Supply caddy: Your home abounds with items you can upcycle to corral your pens, paperclips, earbuds and post-its. It can be as simple as a drinking glass or a bit more elaborate with a spice rack. We think you’ll be surprised how many things from the kitchen in particular will work in your new office.

Design productive kid spaces

Do your kids struggle with staying on task? Are you trying to establish a new routine when they’re home from school? Try including some of these items in their “workroom” to keep it fun and functional.

 

• Calendar: Help your kids stay on task with a DIY calendar. It could be sticky notes on a board, like HGTV shows us. Or you could turn a picture frame into a DIY dry-erase board. List their chores for the day or an hour-by-hour breakdown of what they should be working on.

• Small desk: Their paperwork might be more about finger painting or practicing arithmetic, but they’ll need a worktop, too. If you want a pint-sized option just for them, you could try a wall-mounted desk. Place it in their bedroom and it could grow with them as a vanity or trophy shelf with time.

• Display area: Just because their teacher isn’t there to admire their work doesn’t mean it has to go ignored. Devise a clip or hanger system or clear off some fridge space to show off their effort.

• Organizers: Do they have work they need to turn in later? Keep track of their finished assignments with bins, file folders or any other number of hacks that will help corral their hard work and keep them from asking, “Mom, have you seen my …?!”

Make it a space you love to work in

No matter what kind of space you have, consider these home office hacks for making it more comfortable and yourself more productive.

 

• Lighting: You don’t need to illuminate your entire “office.” Task lighting will make it easier to complete whatever project you’re working on at the moment. If you have a window in your new office space, take advantage of the natural light to ease the strain on your eyes and your nerves.
  
  
• Comfy chair: It doesn’t have to be a traditional desk chair. It could come from the dining room or be the stool from your vanity as long as it’s comfortable.
  
  
• Binder clip cord organizer: Laptops, phones and lamps all need to be plugged in or charged at some point. Keep the cords under control with this hack from Wired.
  
  
• Something pretty: If you’re stuck inside for extended periods of time, it’s nice to surround yourself with things that make you happy. Artwork, plants, family photos or vacation souvenirs can help lift your mood. Just don’t go overboard and make your space feel cluttered.
  
  
• Privacy screen: If your new office doesn’t have a door but you still need some peace and quiet, use a screen or move a tall bookcase near your desk to create some separation between you and the rest of the house.

Design a secure home office

Working from home doesn’t mean throwing security out the window. After all, your work computer houses sensitive information, not to mention the value of your home office technology itself. And if you have physical assets from work or confidential papers, you can’t risk those being visible to unauthorized eyes or getting ruined on accident by your child. Try these home office security ideas to protect your peace of mind.

 

• Always log off your devices when you aren’t actively using them.
  
  
• Protect your desk and work area as a no-kid zone.
  
  
• Make sure valuable work assets are only accessible behind a lock.
  
  
• Use strong passwords – utilizing a password manager can be a big help.

The easiest way to protect your home office is with a Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Lever. You can quickly install this smart lever on any residential door with a knob or lever – making your guest room turned home office more secure than ever. Seamlessly control and monitor your lock through the Schlage Home App on your smart phone, so you don’t have to sacrifice keyless access to give your home office premium security.

Do you have tips for creating an at-home office or improving your productivity while working from home? Share with us on Facebook and Twitter. And if you’re looking for some project ideas to keep yourself or your kids busy, check out the Schlage blog.

 

The front porch is the first thing your guests see, so make sure it leaves a good impression. Whether you have a massive, wraparound porch or a modest stoop, a few pieces of stylish décor can make a big difference. Fortunately, a porch is one of the easiest parts of the home to redecorate. Try one or more of these awesome design ideas to upgrade your front porch.

1. Install distinctive lighting

If your home still has its basic, builder-grade lights, consider swapping out your fixtures. A unique light fixture can add style to an otherwise ordinary porch. As this post from @homebykmb shows, new lighting fixtures add an extra touch of class. If you don't want to make any permanent changes to your property, there are many other ways to use lighting. Consider wrapping string lights around your railing or setting a few lanterns on the steps to add a welcoming glow.
 

Shop Schlage Handleset with Addison Trim

2. Create a cozy spot to sit

Adding some seating to your front porch increases its style and functionality. To create a sitting area that suits your home, carefully consider its size and shape. For example, West & Co. highlights a petite nook with a slim bench. Meanwhile, HistoricalConcepts shows how to style multiple seating arrangements on a big patio. Group furniture into conversation corners and eating areas so that all the different pieces come together to create a cohesive whole. And don't forget that your outdoor seating can be an ideal spot for a bit of whimsy. Addison's Wonderland uses a combination of rattan swings and knit poufs to create a fun, bohemian porch, and I Spy DIY added a sturdy yet comfy bench accented by a potted plant.
 

Shop Schlage Handleset with Addison Trim

3. Spruce up your flooring

Most home entryways use simple wood boards or concrete for the porch flooring. To add visual interest, think outside the box. Instead of a solid, neutral floor, pick something colorful or patterned. We love this stenciled flooring done by @BerryBerryQuiteContrary. It looks completely unique and helps tie together all the other décor on the veranda. Stenciling is a great way to refresh your flooring because it's very affordable. With just a little paint, a basic stencil, and some elbow grease, you can create an eye-catching design.

 

If your front porch budget allows, consider overhauling the flooring altogether. This brick front porch from @forever.six.acres provides the right touch of character that will last for decades no matter your style. 

Shop Schlage Handleset with Camelot Trim

4. Bring greenery onto your porch

When looking for front porch ideas, think carefully about plant placement. You don't have to leave all your shrubs and flowers in the flowerbed. Some well-placed planters are an easy way to upgrade your style. Soft fern fronds in a basket make this front porch by @lizlovegrowswild especially welcoming. If you don't have a green thumb, try some alternatives. Lately, we've seen a lot of gorgeous faux greenery styles that look just as good as the real thing. Or consider accentuating simple succulent plants with a fresh coat of paint on the front door like this makeover from @marlaplainandsmall.
 

Shop Schlage Touch Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt with Century trim

5. Add decorative accents

The best part of decorating the front of your home is creating a space that displays your unique style. Once you have the basics like some organized furniture and nice potted plants, start looking for opportunities to add a few extra decorative accents. Think about what makes your home unique, and consider ways to incorporate those touches into your porch. For example, Atta Girl Says has an adorable lemon theme to celebrate her love of this tart fruit. You can also use your outdoor space to display some of your favorite collections. MGM Builders added vintage objects like a weathered trunk and a galvanized metal watering can to complete a farmhouse look.

 

And if you just so happen to have a vintage Schlage handleset, embrace it! @solomonbergdesign paired the perfect shade of green with this antique brass front door handle. Even if you don't have beautiful vintage hardware, you can still add a personalized finishing touch with Schlage Custom™ hardware. 

6. DIY some architectural details

Porches have the potential for some intriguing details. Unlike interior rooms, entryways typically have rails, columns, brackets, and other interesting elements. To get the right type of trim for your home, first consider its architectural style. For example, this revamped porch by Jenna Sue Design Co. features wood railings and bold color contrasts to modernize the exterior. These projects take a little more time than just unpacking some furniture, but they really enhance your home's "wow factor."
 

Shop Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt with Century trim paired with a Century Front Entry Handle

7. Lay down a beautiful rug

Consider adding an attractive rug, especially if your patio has furniture. A rug helps to clearly define separate spaces on your porch. It's also a great way to provide visual interest and make the area look more cozy and cohesive. As this post from @simplysoutherncottage shows, a rug is a great way to add a touch of softness to an area with a lot of concrete. Outdoor rugs often use special coatings that help them withstand the elements while still looking like traditional indoor carpets.

8. Upgrade your front door handle

Showcase your style with gorgeous door hardware. This simple switch turns a standard door into the highlight of your porch. Swapping out your door hardware offers a great opportunity to tie together all the design elements of your entryway. We love how @EverdayGraceDesigns used the sleek Schlage Addison handleset to complement the other matte black accents on the porch. You can also use your door hardware to switch up the overall style of your front porch. Tiffany from @caldtothefarm used this Schlage handleset to match the farmhouse vibes on her porch.
 

Shop Schlage Handleset with Addison Trim

Following these tips helps you get a front porch that looks welcoming, stylish, and appealing. If you're ready to get more awesome ideas for front porch decorating, seasonal décor ideas, and affordable DIY projects, check out more from the Schlage blog.

 

When it comes to door hardware, hinges are unsung heroes. We tend to forget about them until a door has trouble opening or closing. Luckily, replacing hinges is a straightforward process that requires only a few simple steps. But before diving into the installation process, you'll need to choose the right hinges. 

 

This handy guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right replacement door hinge. With a few simple tools and a little know-how, you'll have your door looking and working like new in no time.

When should door hinges be replaced?

The average door hinge should last 10-15 years. One of the best ways to prolong the life of your hinges is to periodically lubricate them with WD40. However, this won't completely protect from factors such as wear and tear or a heavy door. Here are a few signs that it could be time to replace your door hinges:

 

• Your doors are sagging or drooping
• Your doors are hard to open and close
• Your hinges are squeaking
• Your hinges are loose
• There is visible damage to your hinges

Consider the corner style

Schlage door hinges come in one of three corner hinge styles: 1/4" radius, 5/8" radius, and square. These styles refer to the shape of the hinge when it's viewed from the side. Most homes will have either round 1/4" radius or square corner hinges, but it's not uncommon to find homes with 5/8" radius corners.

 

To determine the corner style of your hinges, take a look at their outer corners. If the corner is at a 90-degree angle, it's a square corner hinge. If the corner is rounded, it's either a 1/4" radius or a 5/8" radius. A 1/4" radius corner will fit a dime along the curve, and a 5/8" radius will fit a quarter.

 

You can also refer to your existing hinges when choosing replacements. To make the installation go as easily as possible, choose the same corner style as the existing hinges on your door. Be sure to transfer the corners and screw holes for a complete look.

Choose your finish

Hinges are available in a variety of finishes to match any décor. The finish is applied to the metal of the hinge, so it will be visible when the door is open. While it may seem like a minor detail, the style and finish of your hinges can really help tie your whole home together.

 

Consider your existing door locks, levers, knobs, and other hardware found in the home. While you don’t need all the metal hardware throughout your house to match, it is standard to match the finish of hinges with your existing door hardware. Some popular finishes for door hinges include:

 

• Bright Chrome
  
• Satin Nickel
  
• Aged Bronze
  
• Satin Brass
• Matte Black

 

At Schlage, we carry a variety of popular finishes to match any décor. Browse through our hinges and other door hardware accessories to find what you need.

Select the right size

Once you have chosen your finish, you'll need to measure your existing hinges to determine the correct size.

 

In most homes, interior doors will use 3.5" hinges, while exterior door hinges will typically be 4" to support the additional weight of the door.

How to measure door hinges

To accurately measure your door hinges, you'll need a measuring tape and a few minutes.

 

• Start by removing one of your door's existing hinges.
  
  
• With the hinge removed, use a measuring tape to measure the width and height of the hinge. Be sure to write down these measurements or take a picture for reference.
  
  
• Now, measure the distance between the top and bottom of the hinge's "knuckle." This is the part of the hinge that connects the two leaves. This measurement will help you determine the correct "length" of the hinge.
  
  
• Finally, measure the thickness of your door. Most interior doors are 1 3/8" thick, while exterior doors are 1 3/4" to 2" thick. Be sure to choose a hinge with the correct door thickness for your project.

 

Another simple way to choose a replacement hinge is to take an existing hinge with you to the store. You can also transfer the pattern of the hinge onto a piece of paper using a pencil. However, if you are buying online, simply knowing the size and corner style is usually enough.

If you’re looking to update your home with simple DIYs that improve both the functionality and style of your home, check out the Schlage blog and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest. We’re always adding new project ideas and how-to tips for home improvement! 

 

Squeaky door hinges are a common frustration. While the noise itself is a bother, it can become a real nuisance when a squeaky door wakes up your sleeping baby or causes you to lose focus when working from home. Fortunately, fixing a squeaky door hinge is an easy DIY. Block off a bit of time and you can stop a squeaky door with some easy maintenance.

What is the best way to stop squeaky door hinges?

The answer here depends on your specific situation. In many scenarios, all you need is a quick application of lubricant to stop a door from squeaking. How do you lubricate door hinges? You can use either WD-40 or there are other household products you may have more readily available. Lubrication is a temporary fix that will require occasional re-application, but it is the easiest, most cost-effective solution for squeaky door hinges.

 

If you have old or damaged door hinges that no longer function properly, your best option is going to be replacement. No amount of lubricant can revive a door hinge that has gotten pinched or rusted out. Or, if your current hinges are an outdated finish that doesn’t match the rest of the hardware in your home, this is the perfect opportunity to swap out your hinges for both style and functionality. Luckily, replacing a squeaky door hinge is a simple, relatively inexpensive upgrade that makes a big impact on your home.

WD-40

There’s a reason dad always kept a can of WD-40 in the garage – it’s perfect for fixing squeaky hinges of all sorts. Rocket Chemical Company created WD-40 to prevent rusting on aerospace technology in the 1950s. “WD” stands for “water displacement,” and it took the three-person team who developed it 40 attempts before finalizing the formula, giving the product its name. Rocket employees started taking the solvent home and using it on a variety of problems – from lubricating hinges and removing bugs from car windshields to removing road tar from cars. More than 75 years later, WD-40’s original formula still does the trick. 

 

To fix a squeaky door with WD-40, you’ll want to use the smart straw on the side of the WD-40 can for precise application. Before spraying, tap the hinge pin so that it is slightly raised – if it is covered in thick gunk, it’s a good idea to give it a quick clean with a cotton swab. Then, hold a paper towel or rag under the hinge to catch any drips. Positioning the end of the smart straw about an inch away, spray in short bursts along the hinge, making sure to hit the hinge pin and any seams so that the WD-40 can travel down into the hinge itself. To clean up the excess WD-40 on the outside of the hinge, use a damp, soapy cloth or multipurpose cleaner and then buff dry to prevent rust. If you raised the hinge pin, make sure to tap it back down into place before moving on. 

 

One application should stop a squeaky door for quite a while, but the WD-40 will eventually dry up, necessitating re-application. 

Household items

WD-40 isn’t the only option – there are other temporary fixes for squeaky hinges. Angi has some great tips on household items that will fix a squeaky door.

 

• Bar soap - Just rub it on your hinges until they are coated.
  
  
• Petroleum jelly – Remove the pin from your hinge and cover it in petroleum jelly before reinserting.
  
  
• Paraffin candles – Remove the pin from your hinges and rub hot wax onto it before reinserting.
  
  
• Olive oil – Use a cotton swab to apply a little bit on top of your hinges.

 

When using these common household products, be sure to concentrate on the hinges and avoid contacting doors as much as possible. Clean up any overapplication to prevent a sticky mess.

New hinges

Chances are, you probably haven’t thought much about the style or finish of your hinges, but it’s often the small details that make the biggest impact in tying a room together. Replacing your hinges serves a dual purpose: improve the functionality of your door while also adding beauty and consistency throughout your home. If you just updated your door hardware with a Matte Black finish, swapping your Bright Brass hinges for Matte Black is a small and simple project that makes a big difference. Schlage carries hinges in a variety of finishes to match any décor.

See how easy updating your hinges is in our step-by-step instructions and enjoy smooth-swinging, beautiful hinges throughout your home.

 

Find more how-to tips and decorating ideas on our blog and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.

 

When you’re trying to waste less household energy, blocking door drafts and window drafts is a great place to start. Because nearly half of the average family’s energy bill goes toward heating and cooling, conserving energy in your home can make a big impact on your wallet and protecting the environment. Learn how to tell where drafts are coming in, how to weatherproof your doors and windows, and other temperature-control DIYs to conserve energy and save money.

How do I find where air is leaking around my doors and windows?

As doors and windows age, or as the weather changes, you might find gaps around the seams that let air in or out. Check two places for leaks in order to stop door drafts. First, look between the wall and the window frame or door frame. One way to do this is by lighting a candle or a stick of incense near the suspected draft. Watch the flame or blow it out and watch the smoke. If the flame flickers or the smoke blows away, you’ve found your leak. To test a door, take a dollar bill or piece of paper and close the door with it underneath. If you can pull the paper out easily, the seal is weak or insufficient. Repeat the test above the door and near the hinges as well. 

How do I stop air from coming through my window?

To block window drafts, use caulk around the sash or frame on both the interior and exterior. Only caulk areas that don’t need to move. Second, examine those areas that do need to move, like around a window’s rail and sash. Give the window a little shake. If you hear it rattling around, the seal is not doing its job and keeping out the draft.

 

To weatherproof windows, use a window insulation kit or insulation film. This film also comes in a kit and can be installed on the window’s interior or exterior. Some people claim bubble wrap is a cheaper alternative to insulate your windows, but we like that the film doesn’t obstruct your views. Apartment Therapy’s guide to installing window insulation film shows how simple this DIY task can be.

How do I stop air from coming through my door?

The first thing to check to stop door drafts is fixing the door alignment. This is also an important factor for improving your security. Once your door is properly aligned, apply weather stripping to block the remaining draft and insulate your door. On the sides and above the door, use foam tape. Underneath the door, you may need to install a door sweep to seal any gaps.

 

A door sweep is usually a metal strip attached to the bottom of the door with a rubber or bristled strip below that. This second piece is what weatherproofs your door against air, dirt and moisture. Lowe’s offers a handy tutorial and more tips on which kind of weather stripping you might need to best insulate your door.

What should I do to insulate my home?

You can lose a lot of heat in the winter if your home has insulation that’s too thin or of the wrong variety. And it’s not just about insulating the walls. Heat rises, so your attic should be well-insulated to keep the warmth down where you are. Basements and crawl spaces that attract dank and cold should also be inspected for improvement opportunities. You can add insulation to existing walls and spaces with spray foam, so you won’t necessarily need to open up any drywall or make a big mess.  

 

Home Depot has a helpful guide on the types of insulation used in different areas of your home and the recommended rating for your climate. 

How to insulate water pipes and water heaters?

Some of your appliances and fixtures might also need an extra layer to protect against freezing – just like when you put on an extra sweater. Not only will insulating water pipes and heaters help them work more efficiently, but it could also keep them from breaking completely. Water pipes especially can freeze and burst, creating more headaches than just a high energy bill. Pipes on an exterior wall are particularly susceptible to freezing or losing heat to cold surrounding air, leading to icy showers. Your water heater faces the same challenges when exposed to cold environments.  

 

To insulate water pipes, you can use traditional foam insulation, which looks a bit like a pool noodle and slides easily onto existing pipes. BobVila.com also recommends spray foam insulation or fiberglass pipe covers, depending on how hot you need the pipes to be and the climate where you live. Insulate your water heater with a water heater blanket or pipe insulation to reduce heat loss by around 25 percent.

Paying attention to these key areas for insulation will help to keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer without wasting money and energy. Once you’ve finished weatherproofing doors and windows, find more smart ways to save you and your home energy in our blog. For other DIY and home improvement tips, visit the Schlage blog.

 

We say it all the time – your front door makes an instant first impression. It’s no different on Valentine’s Day, so use it to let loved ones know you remembered. Show your romantic side by greeting your sweetie at the door on Valentine’s Day with a little something special that says, “I love you.” Here are five sweet ways to celebrate - candy hearts optional!

Show some love for the front door

Not ready to put away the wreaths? One reason they’re such a popular front door decoration is because they’re so versatile – both to individual taste and by season. Get in the holiday mood with bold, bright colors, like this DIY option from The House That Lars Built. We love how much it will pop on a neutral-colored door. Or have some fun with a wreath that “says” something. Hugs and kisses, anyone?

 

Does your significant other woo you with flowers? Show how much you appreciate their thoughtfulness by incorporating those blooms into a seasonal wreath, or, if they’ll survive outdoors in your area, plant some fresh flowers in pots on your porch. 

An entry to warm your heartstrings

Heart garlands are an inexpensive Valentine’s décor option to spiff up your front entry. Use felt or even craft paper to make a string of hearts in your favorite colors. Simply swoop the garland over your front door for a quick dose of fun. And if you have an evergreen tree leftover from December, this is a perfect opportunity to extend its life – just wrap it in a Valentine’s garland for an instant refresh.

Sweet front door colors

February is the perfect time to bring a pop of color to the front of your house. When the weather is dreary, a quick coat of cheerful paint on your front door is a simple way to put a smile on your loved one’s faces. Coral, pink or plum are perfect hues to welcome spring and enjoy year-round. The only rule is to pick a color you love! Remember, 2023 is all about bold colors for self-expression, so don’t be shy – have fun with your front door color!
 

You had me at hello

Sure, you can meet your loved one at the door with roses, but how about trying something a little more creative? If your special someone is expecting flowers, make a whimsical bouquet for your entryway. Bonus points if you can coordinate these blooms with those you might have used to decorate outdoors on your front porch.

 

If you have space in your foyer on a side table, for instance, try incorporating meaningful photographs. Don’t be afraid to take it a step further either by using heart-shaped photo holders. These small, metallic clips are perfect for those with more subtle tastes, and both options are classic enough to be used year-round.

 

Understated Valentine’s décor also goes well in neutral-colored rooms if vibrant reds and pinks aren’t your style. But if you’re ready to break out of a color rut and want to try something bold in a small space, check out Houzz’s top picks for romantic room colors that say, “I love hue.”

Get smitten on the patio

Sometimes your main entryway isn’t actually at the front of the house. If that’s the case, don’t be afraid to buck the trend and go all out for a back door or patio. (We’d say the same thing if you’re considering a smart lock or entryway handleset.)

 

To create a little magic on the back patio, try new lighting. Battery-operated candles, lanterns and twinkle lights are popular and safe options for setting a mood, and not just on Valentine’s Day. You don’t even have to be outside to enjoy the shimmering lights. Place them where you can enjoy the view from inside, like from a romantic meal at your dining room table or cozying up with your loved ones in the living room.

Find more ways to elevate the look of your home, whether it’s for the holidays or every day, by following Schlage on Pinterest and Instagram.

 

What’s not to love about a good life hack? Try these household uses for drinks when typical cleaning solutions just aren’t cutting it or when you’re low on traditional supplies. Just be sure to save some for a refreshing celebratory drink afterward.

Cola

The acidic content and fizziness in this carbonated beverage – whether you call it soda, pop or something else entirely – are usually the reasons it’s an effective cleaner. Some of the more popular uses are in the kitchen. Pour some cola in your pots and pans to remove cooked-on food, or use it as a degreaser.

 

Seasoned DIYers know the disappointment of rusty tools and the frustration of rusted-on nuts and bolts. Soak your tools in soda overnight, then scrub them with a non-abrasive pad. Repeat as necessary. For those stubborn nuts and bolts, pour a bit of soda directly on the problem area or on a rag and twist until the bolt loosens. You can also use club soda for this hack.

 

Perhaps the most unexpected soda-based solution: toilet cleaner. Pour some in the bowl and let it soak for an hour. More than one person claims it removes stains better than your average cleaner.

Club soda

There’s a lot of crossover hacks between Coke (and similar pops) and club soda. We’re guessing people prefer club soda, however, because it’s clear and, therefore, less of a risk for creating stains. In fact, removing fabric stains, whether from clothes, car upholstery or carpets, is one of the most popular uses for club soda. Remember this if you have a puppy or other furry friend. Club soda can help clean pet urine from carpets, also neutralizing the odor in the process.

 

Fingerprints and smudges might be the biggest downside of stainless steel surfaces. Spritz with club soda to clean stainless steel ovens, countertops and sinks, and give them an extra shine at the same time.

 

Fingerprints and smudges might be the biggest downside of stainless steel surfaces. Spritz with club soda to clean stainless steel ovens, countertops and sinks, and give them an extra shine at the same time.

Alcohol

Laundry odors can be just as frustrating as those obstinate rusty bolts. You know you washed your clothes, but those around you aren’t so sure. A bit of vodka sprayed on your clothing before you throw it in the wash can help remove smells and doesn’t leave an odor afterward.

 

If you prefer a good brew, try some in the garden to get rid of slugs. Place a small container – a jar lid works well – at ground level near your plants. The yeast in the beer reportedly attracts slugs. They’ll go crazy for the stuff and eventually drown. You can also use Coke in the same way. Keep reading if you’re trying to keep slugs off your plants but don’t want to kill them.

Coffee

Rather than stopping slugs by encouraging them to overindulge in drink, sprinkle dried used coffee grounds in the soil around your plants. It’s believed that the grounds’ abrasive texture will cause them to head the other way. Check out even more tips for waking up your curb appeal with coffee.

 

Slugs might be onto something when it comes to the abrasive nature of coffee grounds. It’s that same texture that makes coffee great for scouring pots and dirty sinks. Create a coffee soak to clean a gunky grill.

 

Sprinkle wet coffee grounds in fireplace ash to make removal easier. The damp grounds will weigh down the ash to keep it from billowing up and creating a bigger mess. You might also try this when cleaning an outdoor fire pit.

 

If you’re like some people in the Schlage office, you prefer the smell of coffee to its taste. Whether you’re brewing your own cup or have to talk your java-loving friends into sharing, used beans are perfect for deodorizing your home. Put some down your garbage disposal or place them in a small container in the fridge. A small sachet – old pantyhose will work if you’re not picky – with used coffee grounds can be used to freshen the scent of closets, drawers and even gym bags.

 

Now that you’re thinking about drinks, maybe it’s time to spruce up your bar cart. Get ideas for the perfect seasonal bar cart or find more household hacks at the Schlage blog.

 

Sure, the focus of every closet is what's inside. Many homeowners dream of having an impressive wardrobe or neatly organized storage area. When it comes to interior décor, however, the main focal point of your closet is its door. The closet entryway can have a major impact on the general look and feel of your space. Also, don't forget that your door plays a functional role in how you access your closet. If you’re looking for some inventive ways to update a room, consider these six closet door upgrade ideas.

Add paneling trim

If you're comfortable doing a bit of construction, add paneling to your door. This trim can make a surprisingly big visual impact, especially for bifold closet doors. As Room For Tuesday shows in her upgrade, exact measurements are crucial when it comes to paneling.

 

This easy and affordable DIY job only requires a few supplies:

• Poplar planks
• Wood glue
• Level
• Sandpaper
• Wood filler

 

You’ll also need:

• Saw
• Primer
• Paint

 

Start by creating a sketch of your desired paneling style and make sure it measures up to your door space. For this look, you’ll be creating squares using trim pieces. See the full tutorial for this updated look from Room For Tuesday.

 

Looking for an alternative to use in place of closet doors? Pocket doors are an especially good choice if you want to increase your available space and move away from sliding mirror closet doors.

Upgrade to a sliding door

If you like the idea of having a closet with a sliding-style door but are stuck with a traditional closet door, don't worry. Upgrading to a sliding closet door is easier than you think.

 

Not all barn door styles are meant to stay on the farm. You can find sliding closet doors that will suit a modern home in the city, too, like these doors from Rustica Hardware.

 

As this upgrade from Nick's Custom Woodworks shows, barn doors also come in styles that complement a house with a traditional design.

 

Here's what you'll need to add a sliding barn door like in the above examples to your closet:

 

• Hollow core door
• Wood
• Saw
• Glue
• Nails
• Primer
• Paint
• Paintbrush
• Caulk
• Wood filler
• Sliding barn door hardware

 

What are the standard closet door sizes? While a standard closet door is 30-inches wide and 96-inches tall, sizes can vary widely according to the style of the room and door. It’s important to take accurate measurements of the opening so you know how long to cut the door track for your sliding door. The door track length should be at least twice as long as the length of the door. If the door track is too short, your sliding door may not shut properly.

 

Once you have your door measured out, divide it into four sections. To add wood to the door, use nails and glue. Consider using wood that will personalize the door and work with the rest of the room. Once you’ve added the wood, you’ll be ready to sand, caulk, and paint it. Mount the hardware and connect it to the wall. Add a finishing touch with a handle in a finish that complements the rest of the room.

Turn your sliding closet door into a display shelf

If you have a sliding barn door covering your closet, you'll have to make do with less decorating space. That's because you won’t be able to hang a picture or install a shelf along the wall where the door needs to slide. However, you can solve this problem by adding shelving and décor to your sliding barn door.

 

By adding shelving to your sliding closet door, you'll get that decorating space while making an interesting visual statement. Use it to display fun vacation souvenirs, pictures by your favorite artist, or even as storage space for clothing accessories.

Apply wallpaper

Looking for an upgrade that doesn't require too many tools or hardware? Freshen up a closet door and give it a touch of personality with wallpaper. If you want the closet door to blend into the background, add wallpaper with a subtle design or a wood coating. For a more striking design, follow the lead of this example from @lagirl310 and find a fun wallpaper that complements your room’s current décor.

 

This wallpapering technique works best with flat, single-panel doors. Be sure to remove the hardware with a screwdriver and lay the door on a level surface before you begin. You’ll then need to prep the door before adding the wallpaper paste. Your surface should be clean, dry, and smooth. Properly prepped surfaces decrease the possibility of the paper shrinking, which makes it more difficult to remove later.

 

Order enough wallpaper for the closet door and any other spaces where you may want to apply it. Roll the wallpaper paste onto the door — don’t dip the wallpaper into the paste! Use a smoother to stretch the paper and make sure that it goes on flush.

 

Don’t forget to add a finishing touch to your standard closet doors with Schlage’s non-locking, Hall & Closet door knobs and levers. If you need help choosing a style and finish, try our Style Selector tool.

Freshen things up with frosted glass

Do you like the transparency of glass but want to keep the inside of your closet private? Try updating your closet doors to cool and classy frosted glass. You can give existing mirrors or plain glass the frosted effect by applying plastic frosting film or frosting spray paint. As this example from @meadowcreekmagnolias shows, this will give the room a softer, more modern appearance.

 

Premade frosted doors come in many styles — smooth or rough textures, matte or gloss finish, high or low transparency. No matter which you choose, the frosted effect will make your room feel more open. At the same time, the frosted finish is enough to block out views inside your closet. This style goes great with the non-locking knobs and levers in Schlage's hall and closet door hardware.

Expand your room with mirrored closet doors

Are mirrored closet doors outdated? That all depends on how you incorporate the mirrors. While it’s true that this design trend was popular in the 1980s, you can get the retro-modern look with some simple updates. Instead of outdated floor-to-ceiling mirror doors, consider going for the panel effect. Check out how Morgan Farrow Interiors incorporated mirror panels to give this child’s room a fun yet modern touch.

 

You don’t need to replace your mirrored closet doors to get this effect. As the Honeycomb Home shows in this mirror door makeover guide, you can get an updated look by using decorative fretwork panels. These come in various patterns and are easy to install on glass with a bit of clear, all-purpose adhesive.

 

The main benefit of mirrors is that they create the illusion of more space. They also help brighten up rooms by amplifying natural light. However, this can be a problem at night, and many feel that too many mirror reflections may disrupt sleep. The paneling effect, which works for sliding, bi-fold, and traditional doors, is a great way to tone down mirrors without completely eliminating them.

What are the best closet doors?

We believe that the best choice will complement the style of your home and feature quality construction. When you install closet doors with the appropriate door handle, you’ll be able to open and close them with ease. All of the aforementioned closet door makeovers can give your home interior a fresh new look. For more ideas on how to modernize your home, visit the Schlage blog.