(Family Features) Spring is nature’s cue to renew and refresh. Whether you’re looking to add value for potential sale or simply create a more comfortable living space, you can make the most of the season and breathe new life into your home with projects that provide a high return on investment (ROI).

Consider these top home renovation projects to tackle this spring from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from “Remodeling Magazine.”

Remodel the Kitchen and Bathroom
The average seller can expect an 96.1% return on a light touch to the kitchen, according to the report, and 73.7% on a modest bathroom renovation. Because personal preferences can vary widely among buyers, minor upgrades can provide a higher ROI than large, upscale remodels. A few easy ways to refresh your kitchen or bathroom include updating shelving or adding new hardware. Decorative trim and mouldings are also cost-effective ways to add visual interest.

Upgrade with Stone Veneer
As natural and textured home trends continue, homeowners are gravitating toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone, adding comfort, character and beauty to homes. An option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products offers the authentic, handcrafted look of stone in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s also no need to paint, coat or seal once installed. Ideal for its ability to add texture and dimension throughout both home interior (accent walls and fireplaces) and exterior applications (siding, entryways and walkways), stone veneer – which comes with a 153.2% ROI – can influence mood, emotion and energy levels while serving as a focal point of your home’s design.

Install New Windows
Depending on the harshness of winter in your area and the age of your home, you may notice certain windows have developed drafts, allowing cold air to enter and heat to escape. Replacing drafty or outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient models is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, a vinyl window replacement brings approximately 67.1% ROI.

Replace Siding
In some cases, applying a fresh coat of paint is enough to refresh your home. However, if you’re looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal while making a long-term impact, consider installing new siding or replacing existing siding. Because vinyl siding serves as an additional layer of insulation, improving the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, it offers a 80.2% ROI. Weather-resistant, low-maintenance siding like Celect Cellular Composite Siding, which is now available in on-trend colors including Imperial Red, a robust shade of red; Deep Pewter, a compellingly modern forest green; and Timberland, a rich, natural brown, won’t warp, sag or buckle and is built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Its patented interlocking joints provide a seamless look and it’s easy to install in small spaces, like along a knee or pony wall.

Update Decking
If you want to entertain guests outside, spring is a perfect time to get your patio or deck ready. While a new coat of stain can update your existing deck’s appearance and help protect it, spring is also an ideal time to build a deck if your home doesn’t currently have one. When choosing a decking material, cost and maintenance are two factors to consider. Composite decking offers a 68.2% ROI and is low maintenance as it’s not susceptible to cracking, warping and weather damage.

Find more ideas to update your home this spring at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.

SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products

(Family Features) Whether your graduate is venturing into the real world for the first time or simply continuing his or her education, tech gadgets can help make post-grad life easier and more enjoyable.

From a computer that will likely come in handy for a new job or classes and a smartwatch to stay organized and on time to headphones that help concentrate and relax or a new television to unwind, these gift ideas are perfect for tech-savvy grads in your life.

Laptop
Whether starting a new job, freelancing or pursuing further education, a reliable and powerful laptop is a must-have for graduates. Performance is a key consideration when choosing a laptop. Look for a powerful processor, ample RAM and a high-resolution display to handle demanding tasks such as graphic design, video editing, programming or data analysis. Also keep factors such as portability, battery life and connectivity in mind. Being able to work without interruptions regardless of location allows for seamless flexibility in post-grad endeavors.

Noise-Canceling Headphones
The right headphones can be a game-changer, blocking out unwanted noise and creating a peaceful listening experience while studying in a noisy coffee shop, commuting on a crowded train or trying to relax in a busy apartment. Look for noise-canceling headphones with cushioned ear cups and adjustable headbands to provide a snug and comfortable fit even through extended wear to provide the ability to focus on work or enjoy favorite music with minimal distractions.

Smartwatch
Not just a stylish accessory, a smartwatch is also a useful tool for staying connected and organized. From tracking fitness goals and monitoring sleep patterns to receiving notifications, answering calls and making payments with a flick of the wrist, advanced smartwatch features make it easy to stay on top of opportunities and responsibilities. Plus, with customizable faces and interchangeable bands, most watches can be styled to match personal tastes for any occasion.

Portable Charger
A portable charger is an essential gadget for anyone who is always on the go. With the increasing reliance on smartphones and other portable devices, having a reliable source of power is crucial. Available in various sizes and power outputs, these convenient devices can easily fit in a bag or pocket and often feature multiple USB ports to charge multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, cameras and more, whenever and wherever needed.

Smart TV
Transform that dorm room or new apartment into a home theater with a smart television. With the ability to connect to the internet and access a wide range of popular streaming services, favorite movies and TV shows are never more than the push of a button away. Available in a variety of sizes, you can pick an option to fit nearly any living space. Some models even allow the user to control the TV using voice commands or smartphone apps and offer integration with other smart devices to turn the living room into a true multimedia hub.

Find more gift ideas for grads at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

In a world where health has become an increasingly important issue, TIME magazine has taken a step towards recognizing the individuals who are leading the way in creating positive change. Today, they reveal their inaugural TIME100 Health list, a compilation of the 100 most influential people in the field of health.

To create this list, TIME reporters and editors worked tirelessly, consulting experts and sources from around the world. The result is a community of leaders from various industries, including scientists, doctors, advocates, educators, and policy-makers, who are dedicated to making a tangible difference in the world of health.

TIME Editor-in-Chief Sam Jacobs writes in his letter to readers, “Their work is enough to inspire the belief that the world of health is in the middle of a golden age of accomplishment and transformation.” This list serves as a reminder that amidst all the chaos, there are people out there using their resourcefulness and ingenuity to improve the lives of others.

The 2024 TIME100 Health list features CEOs, founders, and co-founders who are at the forefront of health innovation. Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen of Novo Nordisk, Albert Bourla of Pfizer, and Dave Ricks of Eli Lilly are just a few of the notable names on the list. These individuals have made significant contributions to the field, revolutionizing healthcare and pushing boundaries.

Women also play a prominent role on the list, with names like Sumbul Desai, Vice President of Health at Apple, and Raluca Cohen, Chief Science Officer at Salignostics, being recognized for their exceptional work. The list aims to highlight the achievements of women who have made a lasting impact in the field of health.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the TIME100 Health list is the age range of the individuals recognized. From 28-year-old Dale Whelehan, CEO of Four Day Week Global, to 99-year-old Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President, who has been fighting to eradicate Guinea worm for decades, these individuals prove that age is not a barrier to making a difference.

The list also includes creatives and entertainers, showcasing the diverse range of people who are involved in shaping the future of health. Actors Michael J. Fox, Halle Berry, and Olivia Munn, authors Alua Arthur and Peter Attia, and professor and author Jonathan Haidt are just a few of the notable names on the list.

Scientists, doctors, and researchers who are at the forefront of health innovation are also recognized for their groundbreaking work. Cancer researcher Thomas Powles, research scientist Jenna Forsyth, and neurosurgeon Jocelyne Bloch are just a few of the exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Policy-makers and government officials are also acknowledged for their role in shaping health policies. President of France Emmanuel Macron, CDC Director Mandy Cohen, and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy are just a few of the influential figures who have made a significant impact in the field of health.

To celebrate the individuals on the TIME100 Health list, TIME will be hosting the TIME100 Impact Dinner: Leaders Shaping the Future of Health on May 13th in New York City. This event will bring together leaders from various sectors to discuss innovation and trends in healthcare. The event will feature notable speakers such as Halle Berry and Marlena Fejzo, who will provide valuable insights into the future of health.

The TIME100 Health list serves as a reminder of the remarkable progress being made in the world of health. It highlights the individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact and creating a healthier world for all. Whether you are familiar with the names on this list or not, their work is undoubtedly changing lives and shaping the future of health.

About TIME

TIME is a renowned media brand that has been in existence for over a century. It has a vast global audience of more than 120 million across its magazine and digital platforms. TIME has unparalleled access to influential individuals, earning the trust of both consumers and partners worldwide. Its unmatched ability to gather people together is aimed at sharing significant stories about individuals and ideas that shape and enhance the world. In addition to its core offerings, TIME also encompasses TIME Studios, an Emmy Award-winning film and television division, as well as a thriving live events business centered around the highly regarded TIME100 and Person of the Year franchises. TIME for Kids provides reliable news tailored for children, along with valuable resources for educators and families. The branded content studio, Red Border Studios, and the website-building platform, TIME Sites, have received accolades for their quality work. Furthermore, TIME is actively engaged in sustainability and climate action through its division, TIME CO2. With the recent launch of TIME Stamped, an e-commerce and content platform, TIME continues to expand its reach and offerings.

SOURCE TIME

https://time.com/collection/time100-health

https://stmdailynews.com

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