1. Keep it simple

Keep your existing front porch decor and simply add an American flag or two for a patriotic look that's quick and easy to pull off. Ann from On Sutton Place does just that with a cute display on her existing wreath.

2. Hang some bunting

Bunting is incredibly versatile and always gorgeous for celebrations. It can be made out of nearly anything – flags, bandanas, paper, fabric scraps – and you can find it at most stores this time of year or make your own by sewing, stapling or simply tying your materials together. Take the understated classy route like Boxwood Avenue with flags made of painters’ cloth. Or make a bigger statement like Nora Murphy.

3. Plant patriotic flowers

Whether you opt for red, white, blue or a combination of the three, fresh flowers are a great way to add a pop of patriotic color to your front porch. Consider refreshing your planters or adding to existing arrangements to get your front porch ready to celebrate the long weekend in no time. Here's some inspiration from On Blueberry Hill.

4. Try a DIY project

The long holiday weekend is the perfect time to put your skills to the test and try out a new craft. Homeowners with kids can even get them involved and create something adorable to celebrate the 4th of July. This patriotic wreath from Home Crafts by Ali is the perfect place to start.

5. Get creative

Take some inspiration from the holiday itself and create something unique for your porch decor. Here's how Hoosier Homemade took a few wooden fence posts and made them into wooden firecrackers, perfect for any 4th of July-inspired space!

6. Spare no detail

Of course, we love when each and every detail is carefully curated to complete a look. You’ll definitely be tempted to hang out all weekend on this patriotic patio by Four Generations One Roof. Grab a few red, white and blue pillows, blankets and accessories and create a space where you can enjoy some relaxation and good company.

Are you planning on decorating your home for the 4th of July weekend? Be sure to share your photos with us on Facebook and Instagram!

1. Keep your online orders safe

This holiday season, online sales are expected to make up 57 percent of all purchases. If you’re one of these people, you’re likely receiving packages while at work or travelling. Don’t stress over whether these packages will be safe on your front porch. With a smart deadbolt, you can easily set up a code for a friend or family member to come over and drop your packages inside.

For Amazon Prime members that live in participating areas, you can even take advantage of Amazon Key. With a compatible smart lock, like the Zigbee-certified Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt, and the Amazon Cloud Cam, you can have your online orders delivered safely inside your home.

2. Easy access for guests

Don’t worry about hiding a spare key or having new copies made that could easily be lost. Make coming and going easy for your extended stay guests by giving them a custom code to unlock the door. You can even assign a period of time for that code to be active or simply disable it when they leave.

3. No more fumbling for keys

It seems like there’s always something to weigh you down during the holiday seasons whether it’s coming home with a car full of gifts or simply trying to juggle the groceries and the kids at the same time. Stop fumbling for your keys at the door and eliminate one more hassle by opting for a keyless lock solution. With the Schlage Sense™ Smart Ddeadbolt, you can easily use the Schlage Sense appc to lock and unlock your door when you are within Bluetooth® range (about 40 feet), or easily punch in a 4-8 digit code on any of our smart lock offerings.

4. Peace of mind

By choosing a Z-Wave, Zigbee or Bluetooth smart lock, you can add a compatible smart home hub – such as Samsung’s SmartThings for Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt – that allows you to check in on the status of your lock and control it no matter where you are. To access your Schlage Sense™ lock remotely, you’ll need an Apple TV® or iPad® for HomeKit or the Schlage Sense Wi-Fi Adapter. So enjoy that holiday dinner at your grandmother’s house in another state, confident that your doors are locked and your home is secure.

5. Late night convenience

A connected smart home hub will also allow you to take advantage of other whole home features from the minute you unlock your door. Don’t stumble around for a light switch or adjust the thermostat when you arrive home. Simply set your smart home hub to do those things for you as soon as your door is unlocked.

Stop worrying about the little things that are easy to fix. This holiday season, you deserve more peace of mind so you can focus on the things that truly matter. To find the right smart lock for you, visit our Get Help Deciding tool to find your perfect match.

Perk up your neutrals.

If you’ve fallen out of love with your restrained, neutral decor, then let a little sprinkling of silver work its magic. Long, billowing curtains in silvery crushed velvet or cool pewter silk will lift a traditional design scheme, while mirrored glass furniture and a glamorous wall mirror will help catch the light and fill the room with summery charm.

Wow with a silver ceiling

This laid-back, eclectic kitchen rockets straight into the designer-label league, thanks to the ornate tin tiles and coving adding a swath of silver to the ceiling. And when the sun pours through during the summer, be prepared for a fantastical light show. If you can’t get your hands on tin tiles like these, you could always try a DIY silver painted ceiling for a similar summer glow.

Work it with white

Silver and white has long been a fresh and uplifting color combo and will inject a summery feel into any space — including the kitchen. Here, plain white cupboards have been transformed by the shiny steel backsplash and plinth, while the discreet metal and glass furniture and barely-there white voile curtains add to the light and airy ambience (this color duo is particularly great for small spaces).

Layer the silvers

You can’t go wrong with a silver boudoir for summer. Silver will never be too girlie (while pinks and purples might be a little too saccharine for some to swallow), and it can be anchored with a smart charcoal backdrop for a more masculine or hotel-style take. A sumptuous silver headboard in soft velvet will harness the look, then you can layer up the bed with silvery gray linens, a plush quilt and piles of sequined silk and satin cushions — all in a shimmering palette of silver, pewter and platinum, of course.

Make it muted

If high-shine silver is just a little too flashy for your tastes, consider a more muted brushed finish. This pale sage kitchen really comes to life with matte silver bar stools, fisherman’s lanterns and brushed-steel appliances, creating a fresh, happy ambience to which guests will gravitate for a relaxed summer brunch.

Ramp up your rustic

Rugged raw wood, the dominant feature in this elegantly converted stable building, and high-shine chrome are not an obvious mix. But the unexpected contrast is a sleek touch that highlights the new-versus-old design of this clever conversion. You could try giving a rustic kitchen a polished twist in a similar way with chrome kitchen appliances set against stripped antique wood paneling.

Do you love the sparkle and shimmer silver can bring to a home? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments.

This article was first published on houzz.com, May 7, 2015.

1. In honor of design

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, most home improvement projects get placed on hold, but adding a fresh coat of paint and a new handleset to your front door is an easy update you can tackle. See the before and after from In Honor of Design. We love her choice of greenery for a look she can enjoy all winter long.

2. Classy Clutter

The front door is the perfect place to play with a fun new color. Try adding a non-traditional shade with your holiday decor this year for a look that is sure to make you stand out. Get all the details on how Mallory from Classy Clutter went from a boring white door to modern and festive in no time.

3. Good Housekeeping

Add a little extra charm to your front door decor with a simple, unadorned spruce tree and a few winter necessities. This look from Good Housekeeping is quick and easy to pull off if you're waiting to the last minute to make your home festive. The best part is that the decor can stay all winter long.

4. House Beautiful

Nothing beats a cozy welcome. We'd love to bundle up and enjoy a hot chocolate under the flannel blankets on this front porch from House Beautiful. The double wreath is a great way to dress up a white door.

5. On Sutton Place

We can always count on Ann from On Sutton Place to have seasonal front porch decor we'll want to copy. We love her choice of juniper and pinecones as the star of the show. The best detail is the DIY Pinecone Garland that easily transitions from fall through winter for a project that is worth the effort.

6. Centsational Girl

This year, warm metallics are definitely in and Kate of Centsational Girl does a perfect job of using them in her front door look. Have a little fun with your decor by mixing metals and adding a little glam to your holiday curb appeal.

7. Beneath my Heart

Sometimes you just can't beat traditional holiday elements. It doesn't take much to give this stunning front porch a farmhouse look. With fresh greenery and statement wreaths, you'll have flawless holiday curb appeal in no time. Get all the details from Traci of Beneath My Heart.

1. Simply glam » houseandhome.com

If your front door opens up to a grand staircase, make a big impression by adorning your railing with holiday garland. This magnolia leaf garland from House & Home easily stands alone as the focal point. Magnolia leaf is a holiday foliage that is quickly gaining in popularity. This particular combination doesn't need any sparkle to add a bit of glamour to this space.

2. Cozy and rustic » hgtv.com

You don't need a grand foyer to create a welcoming space. Simply throw together a few pieces that are functional and complete an empty corner. This perfectly faked mudroom from HGTV has all the elements to get you through a snowy winter with just a few rustic pieces to make you feel cozy and ready for the holidays.

3. Modern and clean » houzz.com

Consider adding a Christmas tree to your foyer as the perfect way to set the holiday mood and also provide a great spot for guests with gifts to lay their presents. We love how this homeowner's personal style doesn't get lost in the holiday noise. See more from this home at houzz.com.

4. A casual touch » traditionalhome.com

5. A natural holiday » marcusdesigninc.com

You may not have to look any further for holiday decor than your own backyard. With a few twigs, pine cones and simple greenery, you can create a festive look with ease. See more natural holiday decor from Marcus Design.

Shift from cool to warm

As sources of energy and renewal, earth tones are taking the lead over a previous trend of subdued, jewel tones.

Divide and Single Malt

The ELEVATE Design Collective's original Pantone® color boasts a distinctive organic and warm shade to evoke cold-weather comforts like cognac and leather.

Copper

Copper will serve best as an accent this fall, adding a touch of glamour to sink fixtures and kitchenware. Add visual interest by pairing the warmer metal with silvery accents and darker bronzes.

Weathered finish

Aged patinas, like Schlage's Aged Bronze finish, add character and a sense of nostalgia to home accent pieces.

Matte black

Matte Black is the ultimate finish for creating a strikingly bold, yet clean and modern look. This trend is expected to dominate well into next year.

• Your phone's Bluetooth must be turned on. 
  
  
• The phone must remain within Bluetooth range (40 feet) of the lock.
  
  
• If the firmware does not finish within 15-20 minutes, cancel (go back) the firmware update, the app may be attempting to update the lock through an Apple TV. You can force the firmware update to use Bluetooth by turning Airplane Mode on, turn Bluetooth on, and restart the firmware update. 
  
  

If you are having trouble connecting to the lock with the Schlage Sense app, try the following:
 

1. Turn your phone's Bluetooth on.
   
   
2. Disconnect and reconnect the lock's batteries -- then attempt to connect again.
   
   
3. If this is not successful, reboot your iPhone (or iPad or iPod touch) -- then attempt to connect again.
   
   

If the steps above are not successful, factory reset your lock and pair with your phone again with the following steps:
 

1. Disconnect the lock's batteries.
   
   
2. Press and hold the Schlage button on the lock's touchscreen.
   
   
3. Reconnect the lock's batteries.
   
   
4. Release the Schlage button on the lock's touchscreen.
   
   
5. Observe the lock's touchscreen flashing the green check. This is confirmation that the factory reset was successful.
   
   
6. You will need to delete lock from the Schlage Sense app by tapping the home name, Manage Homes, select the home, EDIT, and delete the lock. If the Schlage Sense app is displaying the introductory screen, try deleting the lock from the Apple Home app (tap and hold the lock > details > remove accessory).
   
   
7. Return to the Schlage Sense app main screen and add a new lock (top right corner).
    

At Schlage, we appreciate your patience as we've worked to resolve these issues. As a brand trusted in over 40 million homes, we continue to invest in the Schlage Sense^TM Smart Deadbolt to improve the user experience, add new features, and enhance its convenience to our customers.

Choose a favorite.

Use fabrics.

The golden rule.

Pick and mix.

Divide and conquer in the kitchen.

Now that you're an expert on mixing metal finishes, which finishes will be featured in your home? For more on mixing metals, visit our friends at Houzz.

This article first appeared on Houzz on March 16, 2016.

Thermostat

Plugs

Locks

It's never a good feeling when you leave home for the day and can't remember whether you locked your front door. Smart locks can provide both peace of mind and convenience. Get started with a lock like our Bluetooth®-enabled Schlage Sense™ smart deadbolt* that allows you to talk to unlock using voice commands with Siri® or enter a custom 4-8 digit PIN to gain access without a key. When paired with an AppleTV®, you can also gain remote capabilities. This allows you to check in to see whether your home is locked and safe no matter where you are in the world.

*The Schlage Sense™ lock should be within 40 feet of an Apple TV® for remote capability and uses Bluetooth® Smart technology to communicate with your iPhone®. 

Read more about Smart Homes

How to Get Started with a Connected Home
A Safety Guide
Your Future Home is Already Here

Some Schlage Sense customers have experienced a loss of remote access through the 3rd generation Apple TV after updating their lock to firmware version 3.42.

We're aware of the issue and are working quickly to resolve.

In the meantime, learn more details about how to set up an Apple TV and iPad for remote access and automation of your Schlage lock and other HomeKit accessories.

Sign up to receive the latest news regarding the Schlage Sense firmware updates.

Checking for updates is easy and only takes a moment -- do it today so your Schlage Sense™ lock and app are ready for iOS 10! Here's how:

1. Visit the Schlage Sense™ app page in the App Store, or tap on the App Store icon from your home screen and search for Schlage Sense. 
   
   
2. Click Update to install the latest version of the Schlage Sense™ app. 
    
3. Once the installation is complete, open the app and follow the prompts to install the latest firmware. The app will walk you through the process, which can take up to 15 minutes. 
    
4. NOTE: If your lock appears to be unreachable in the Sense app, turn your phone off and back on.

Do I need to buy a new lock to work with iOS 10?

No. Every Schlage Sense™ lock made will be compatible with iOS 10. Update your app, then open it to accept the firmware upgrade, and your lock will be ready for iOS 10. Visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app.

Why is the app update important?

Updating your Schlage Sense™ app allows you to upgrade to the newest firmware – without updating the app, you won’t be able to upgrade your firmware.

I've updated my lock and have lost remote access through Apple TV. What do I do?

Some Schlage Sense customers have experienced a loss of remote access through the 3rd generation Apple TV after updating their lock to firmware version 3.42. We're aware of the issue and are working quickly to resolve. In the meantime, you can learn more details about how to set up an Apple TV and iPad for remote access and automation of your Schlage lock and other HomeKit accessories.

What does the new firmware do?

The firmware allows you to receive push notifications about lock activity, and access your lock with the new Home app that comes with the iOS 10 update. Users of iOS 9 and below will begin receiving push notifications on their iPhone®, iPad® or iPod touch® whenever the deadbolt is locked or unlocked, allowing them to keep an even closer eye on who is coming and going at home. 

Do I have to install the firmware at the same time I update my app?

No. You may update your app and find you don't have time to accept the firmware upgrade. That’s fine, just open your app and accept the upgrade when you can – and remember, the firmware upgrade may take up to 15 minutes to install.

Will the firmware update reset my lock's current access codes and settings?

No, the firmware update won't affect your lock's current access codes and settings. After the update, your lock will continue to function the same as before, and all access codes will remain active.

If I update my Schlage Sense™ app and accept the firmware upgrade, but I don't upgrade my phone to Apple®'s new iOS 10, will my lock and app still work?

Yes. Your lock and app will continue to function normally regardless of which iOS you have installed. Learn more about what the Schlage Sense™ app and firmware upgrade offers users of iOS 9 and below.

Should I wait until iOS 10 is released to update my Schlage Sense™ app?

No, you should update your Schlage Sense™ app as soon as possible so you can receive the latest firmware updates. These updates enable compatibility with iOS 10's new built-in Home app coming later in the month. They also offer new features for users of iOS 9 and below. Click here to visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app.

I upgraded to iOS 10 and opened my new Home app, but my Schlage Sense™ lock shows as "Not Supported." What do I do? 

You'll need to visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app. Once the app is updated, open it and you will be prompted to accept the latest firmware upgrade. With your Schlage Sense™ app and firmware upgraded and your phone updated to iOS 10, you can begin using the Home app with your Schlage Sense™ lock.

My app keeps shutting down/freezing. What do I do?

It sounds like your lock's firmware was updated, but you haven't updated your Schlage Sense™ app. This can happen in a household of multiple users who all must update their apps. You can solve this problem by visiting the App Store to update your app. 
 

Sign up to receive the latest news regarding the Schlage Sense firmware updates.

The Home app is a great way to control all of your HomeKit™-enabled accessories in one place. As more and more accessories become available that work with the Home app, you gain the ability to customize the most convenient and comfortable environment possible in your home using all of your accessories together through the Home app.

The new firmware updates also allow Schlage Sense™ users to receive push notifications whenever the deadbolt is locked or unlocked.

Users with an Apple TV®* installed within range of the lock will also gain new features. When the Apple TV® receives the notification that the Schlage Sense™ deadbolt has been locked or unlocked, it can then trigger other HomeKit™-enabled accessories in your home to act depending on your preferences. The lights may turn on, or cameras may start recording. The experience created by all of your HomeKit™-enabled accessories working in concert is entirely customizable, and controlled through settings in the Home app.

The Home app will have its own icon on your home screen, but it can also be found in the iOS 10 Control Center for extra easy access – swipe left to find it.

* Controlling this HomeKit-enabled accessory away from home with the Home app requires a fourth-generation Apple TV with tvOS 10 or later and an iPhone®, iPad® or iPod touch® with iOS 10 or later.

Do I need to buy a new lock to work with iOS 10?

No. Every Schlage Sense™ lock made will be compatible with iOS 10. Update your app, then open it to accept the firmware upgrade, and your lock will be ready for iOS 10. Click here to visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app.

I've updated my lock and have lost remote access through Apple TV. What do I do?

Some Schlage Sense customers have experienced a loss of remote access through the 3rd generation Apple TV after updating their lock to firmware version 3.42. We're aware of the issue and are working quickly to resolve. In the meantime, you can learn more details about how to set up an Apple TV and iPad for remote access and automation of your Schlage lock and other HomeKit accessories.

Why is the app update important?

Updating your Schlage Sense™ app allows you to upgrade to the newest firmware -- without updating the app, you won’t be able to upgrade your firmware.

What does the new firmware do?

The firmware allows you to receive push notifications about lock activity, and access your lock with the new Home app that comes with the iOS 10 update. Users of iOS 9 and below will begin receiving push notifications on their iPhone®, iPad® or iPod touch® whenever the deadbolt is locked or unlocked, allowing them to keep an even closer eye on who is coming and going at home.

Do I have to install the firmware at the same time I update my app?

No. You may update your app and find you don't have time to accept the firmware upgrade. That’s fine, just open your app and accept the upgrade when you can -- and remember, the firmware upgrade may take up to 15 minutes to install.

Will the firmware update affect my lock’s current access codes and settings?

No, the firmware update won't affect your lock's current access codes and settings. After the update, your lock will continue to function the same as before, and all access codes will remain active.

If I update my Schlage Sense™ app and accept the firmware upgrade, but I don’t upgrade my phone to Apple®'s new iOS 10, will my lock and app still work?

Yes. Your lock and app will continue to function normally regardless of which iOS you have installed. Learn more about what the Schlage Sense™ app and firmware upgrade offers users of iOS 9 and below.

Should I wait until iOS 10 is released to update my Schlage Sense™ app?

No, you should update your Schlage Sense™ app as soon as possible so you can receive the latest firmware updates. These updates enable compatibility with iOS 10's new built-in Home app coming later in the month. They also offer new features for users of iOS 9 and below. 

I upgraded to iOS 10 and opened my new Home app, but my Schlage Sense™ lock shows as "Not Supported." What do I do?

You'll need to visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app. Once the app is updated, open it and you will be prompted to accept the latest firmware upgrade. With your Schlage Sense™ app and firmware upgraded and your phone updated to iOS 10, you can begin using the Home app with your Schlage Sense™ lock.

My app keeps shutting down/freezing. What do I do?

It sounds like your lock's firmware was updated, but you haven't updated your Schlage Sense™ app. This can happen in a household of multiple users who all must update their apps. You can solve this problem by visiting the App Store to update your app.

Does the Home app replace the Schlage Sense™ app?

No. The Home app will allow you to see your lock's status and set it to trigger actions from other Home accessories (i.e. the door unlocks and the lights turn on.) You still need the Schlage Sense™ app to be able to manage your access codes, lock settings, view the last 100 times the lock was used, get installation help, and contact customer service. The Home app offers a convenient hub to control all of your HomeKit™-enabled accessories in concert, but only the Schlage Sense™ app offers you the full functionality of the lock.
 

Sign up to receive the latest news regarding the Schlage Sense firmware updates.

7. Do I have to install the firmware at the same time I update my app?

No. You may update your app and find you don’t have time to accept the firmware upgrade. That’s fine, just open your app and accept the upgrade when you can -- and remember, the firmware upgrade may take up to 15 minutes to install.

9. If I update my Schlage Sense™ app and accept the firmware upgrade, but I don't upgrade my phone to Apple®'s new iOS 10, will my lock and app still work?

Yes. Your lock and app will continue to function normally regardless of which iOS you have installed.

11. I upgraded to iOS 10 and opened my new Home app, but my Schlage Sense™ lock shows as "Not Supported." What do I do?

You'll need to visit the App Store to update your Schlage Sense™ app. Once the app is updated, open it and you will be prompted to accept the latest firmware upgrade. With your Schlage Sense™ app and firmware upgraded and your phone updated to iOS 10, you can begin using the Home app with your Schlage Sense™ lock.

For more information about the latest app and firmware updates, sign up to receive our Schlage Sense emails today.

1. Door hardware.

2. Metal trays.

3. Stylish shelving.

Shelves for loose change are a must -- especially in a small foyer with no room for storage furniture. Shelves are easy to make -- just be sure they are properly mounted so they last. For a traditional look, try constructing a shelf out of crown moulding with plain boards and quarter round. Modern industrial spaces featuring light and glass often incorporate organic textures to ground the design and add warmth. Look for reclaimed or rough-hewn wooden boards with a flat enough surface to display your knick-knacks.

4. Coat hooks.

5. Glamorous mirrors.

Mirrors also add glamour and make a petite foyer feel larger. Mixing and matching various shapes and sizes adds personality to larger entry areas.

We want to see your perfect foyer! Comment below or share with us on Facebook.

More often than not, you’ll only need a locksmith at the most inconvenient time. If you’re like many of us, you don’t think about finding a reliable locksmith until an emergency occurs. You haven’t had the luxury of building a relationship with someone you'll be trusting with a most important job, your home’s security.
 

The first thing you’ll do is Google search a locksmith in your area. What next? How do you know if the locksmiths at the top of the search results are reliable?

Here are a few tips when finding a reliable locksmith:

• Locksmiths should have a valid state locksmith license or registration. Make sure to ask for this upon obtaining service.
  
  
• Some states require locksmiths to be licensed or registered. Ask if your state requires a license or registration, and say you want to see it when the locksmith arrives. Findalocksmith.com is a website sponsored by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) and only features professional locksmiths who are registered.
  
  
• Your locksmith should double check you are who you say you are. They should ask to see a valid ID and proof of residence/ownership. This is done to protect all parties involved.
  
  
• Ask the locksmith to bring a written estimate of the total cost. If it seems low, confirm that is covers all fees such as service call, labor, replacement parts or mileage.
  
  
• Find out if the locksmith has insurance to cover your losses in case your property is damaged during a repair.
  
  
• Ask for the locksmith’s identification and business card. Make sure the information on the business card matches the company name on the invoice.
  
  
• If the locksmith says it’s necessary to drill your lock and replace it, think about hiring a different person. A skilled, legitimate locksmith has invested in tools and education and should have the skills to unlock almost any door.
  
  
• If the service was good, save the number in case there’s a next time and leave a positive review on their website or digital listing – for the next person in the same emergency.

Hiding a spare key

Leaving doors unlocked

Forgetting to lock windows

Poor lighting

Being obvious that you're on vacation

1. Garage door makeover » younghouselove.com

2. Modern front door upgrade » thedecorista.com

3. Cement tile look » thedempsterlogbook.com

4. Walkway spruce up » paintspeckledpawprints.net

5. DIY shutters » thehandmadehome.net

Which look is your favorite? Comment below to let us know!

Schlage Touch™ Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt

Schlage Connect™ Touchscreen Deadbolt

Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt

Have questions about some of the features and benefits of the locks above? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter! Be sure to check out even more keyless lock reviews here.

1. "Electronic locks are too technical."

2. "The lock will fail when the power goes out."

3. "The lock must be wired."

4. "Electronic locks are a bulky, eye-sore."

5. "The numbers will wear down and someone can guess my code."

6. "Mechanical locks are more secure."

7. "A key is more reliable."

What questions do you have about keyless electronic locks? Comment below to let us know!

1. Welcoming front door makeover » nicolegibbonsstyle.com

2. Simple update, major impact » ourfifthhouse.com

3. Modern front porch transformation » withheart.com

4. Recipe for perfect curb appeal » sandandsisal.com

Which tranformation is your favorite? Comment below to let us know!

1. Peace of mind

2. No more lost keys

3. Auto-lock

4. Easy access

5. Convenience

Have questions about which keyless lock is right for you and your family? Comment below and we'll help you sort through the features and benefits.

1. Choose a secure access code / PIN

2. Keep an eye on the battery life

3. Store user codes in a secure location

4. Lock your smart phone

5. Find a home for the backup mechanical key

6. Leverage safety features

1. Proper lighting

2. Keyless locks

3. Cameras

4. Garage security

5. Look active

What steps do you like to take to secure your home before leaving for vacation? Comment below to let us know!

1. Avoid leaning items against the wall

2. Create a workspace

3. Place barely used items out of sight

4. Keep toys and sporting equipment organized

5. Upgrade your garage security

What other storage solutions or security tips do you have for the garage? Show us your projects on Facebook and Instagram!

Updating the door hardware on your front door is a quick and easy project that enhances the curb appeal of your home. With minimal investment and few tools, we'll show you all the steps you'll need to take to tackle this project in a few minutes. Go ahead and grab your #2 Phillips Head screwdriver and tape measure and learn how to install a new handleset on your front door below. Be sure to review the deadbolt installation steps first if you'll be installing a new deadbolt as well.

Handleset Parts Checklist

Measurement Checklist

Handleset Installation Instructions

a. Remove faceplate with a flat head screwdriver

b. Twist and remove remaining support plate

c. Install round drive-in faceplate with just a snap

For even more detailed steps to installing your new handleset, be sure to watch the installation video.

1. Create a kitchen

2. Kick back and relax

3. Entertain all summer

HomeKit

The new home app

What do these announcements mean for Schlage Sense^TM users?

1. Does your home really need it?

2. Will you hire a pro?

3. What's your budget?

4. How long should this project take?

5. Can you complete it in the right season?

Have you completed an exterior painting project? Comment below to share your advice and tips! For more advice on choosing an exterior paint color, see our top exterior painting tips here.

1. Spruce up existing landscaping

2. Create a welcoming entry

3. Fill empty landscaping space

4. Build a gathering space

5. Add a finishing touch

What projects are you hoping to tackle this weekend? Comment below to let us know!

1. Make an affordable style statement

2. Complete your interior decor

3. A detail that can't be missed

5. Wide selection of styles and finishes

Don't let an outdated handleset and mismatched hardware drag your curb appeal down anymore. With minimal tools and time, you can be on your way to a stylish look in no time. If you're planning a front door refresh this weekend, be sure to share your before and after photos with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Mechanical deadbolt pros

Mechanical deadbolt cons

Electronic deadbolt pros

Electronic deadbolt cons

Updating your front door can be as simple as adding a fresh coat of paint and a new set of hardware. This project can easily be tackled in an afternoon and to help you plan for this project, we're going to show you how easy it is to install a new deadbolt lock. Before we get started, be sure your door is properly drilled and aligned with this door prep checklist. You can complete your deadbolt installation in just a few minutes with minimal tools - tape measure and a #2 Phillips Head screwdriver are all you need. Keep in mind that an electric drill is not recommended for installation as it can easily strip the screws and damage your lock.

Deadbolt parts checklist

Installation instructions

1You'll begin installing your deadbolt lock by placing the bolt first.* 

a. Remove faceplate with a flat head screwdriver

b. Twist and remove remaining support plate

c. Install round drive-in faceplate with just a snap

3If you're using the rectangular faceplate, slide the bolt into place with the word top facing up and secure with the two short screws.

a. Remove the attachment screw located on the interior side of the outside housing.

b. Rotate and remove the bracket.

5Orient outside housing with Schlage side up, align and insert the tail piece with the bolt. If you're using the snap and stay bracket, simply snap the outside housing into the hole.

6Next, orient the slot on the inside thumbturn with the tail piece and secure it to the door using the two self-guiding long screws. The tapered tip of the screws allows them to easily line up and thread.

Testing the lock

2Repeat step 1 on the exterior side with the key.

3Now close the door and use the thumbturn to operate the bolt. It should extend and retract smoothly. If the deadbolt drags while testing with the door closed, you'll need to adjust the strike or jamb for better alignment.

  Deadbolt to door latch

- Your door must have a minimum of 5 1/2" between the center of the deadbolt crossbore hole and the center of any other door latch below the deadbolt.

  Crossbore

- The crossbore diameter should measure 2 1/8" or 1 1/2".

  Backset

  Latch bore

- The latch bore should measure 1" in diameter.

  Thickness

  Doorjamb

1. Front entrance

2. Garage door

3. Siding

4. Deck

5. Stone veneer

6. Roof

Replacing the roof is an expensive investment that every homeowner dreads. Potential buyers are often quick to ask the age of the roof before making a decision to make an offer. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be worth avoiding losing a potential sale making the investment to replace. This selling point will also justify a slightly higher asking price. Check out the full details on cost vs. value here.

Which exterior project is on the top of your priority list this summer? Comment below to let us know!

1. Over-improving

If adding curb appeal is on your list of priorities in order to increase the resale value of your home, be careful not to over-improve. Some projects require more investment to complete than you'll see in return when your house is on the market. For example, you can recoup up to 101.8% of the cost of a new front door while adding on composite decking will only recoup 68% of the investment, according to Hanley Wood's Cost vs. Value report. Factor in the value of homes around you and the cost to be sure you're prioritizing the projects that give you the biggest bang for your buck.

2. Too much maintenance

3. Ignoring the little details

4. Failing to maintain

5. Creating a contradiction

6. Waiting too long

What other tips do you have for fellow homeowners working on their curb appeal this summer? Comment below to let us know!

1. Ditch the keys

2. Light the home

3. Set up surveillance

4. Activate smart alarm

5. Monitor the garage

6. Keep tabs on the door

Curb appeal isn't just for the front of your home. This side door transformation is simple but the end result makes a huge difference. Get all the details from stain technique to door hardware from Living Rich on Less.

Window boxes are another way to add both color and character to your home. Simply purchase one from the store or try a DIY version to get the exact look you want. Here's a great tutorial from Two Twenty One.

For even more DIY curb appeal ideas, check out eleven of our favorite spring curb appeal ideas.

Finally, don't forget to look to online resources such as Pinterest or Houzz and keep an eye on your favorite home remodeling publications for inspiration. Keep your mind focused by sticking to the factors you laid out above and take your favorite images to your local paint supplier to find the perfect match.

What process do you go through to find the perfect exterior paint color? Comment below to let us know.

1. Keep it simple

2. Make it pop

3. Bring it to life

4. Restore and refinish

5. Go from bland to modern

6. Accessorize

7. Be bold

8. Keep it classy

1. Well manicured lawn

2. Fresh exterior

3. Vibrant front door

4. Pops of color

5. Clutter-free

6. Complete

What advice do you have for fellow homeowners when it comes to adding high value curb appeal? Comment below to let us know!

1. Video tutorials

2. App with installation instructions

3. knowledge center

4. Customer support

5. Firmware updates

And there you have it. When you join the Schlage electronic lock family, you can rest easy knowing there's a whole team dedicated to making sure you have the best experience with your new smart deadbolt. As always, feel free to submit your questions or comments below or follow one of the steps above to access existing materials. 

1. Front door makeover

2. Unique house numbers

3. Well-designed landscaping

4. Strategic lighting

5. Spring clean

What areas of your home are you looking to improve this spring? Comment below to let us know!

Spring is not only a great time of year to clean and organize your home but also the perfect time to make sure your loved ones and belongings are as safe and secure as possible. While you scour your home to replace smoke detector batteries and ensure all home security devices are in working order, look for opportunities to improve the safety of your home.

Smart home technology isn't just for adding convenience or efficiency to your home. There's also the benefit of greater peace of mind as you increase security and stay connected to know your home is safe and sound. With the latest developments in smart home technology, you can rest easy while at home or away knowing you didn't forget to lock the doors or close the garage and have the right equipment in place to deter both criminals and disaster.

Looking for even more information on smart home technology? Check out our tech board on Pinterest.