Summer vacation season is here! So many of us are planning our vacations, the fun beach trips, and getting away for a while. But vacations also mean being away from the house. That means more risk for the security of your home. During the summer, burglaries do happen more often given that people are not in their homes for extended periods of time. There are things that you can do to protect your home, though!

1. Lock All Windows and Doors Before You Leave
It seems simple enough. You may even be thinking, "who wouldn't do that??" But it's never a bad idea to double and triple check that your windows and doors are properly shut and locked. These will be the first areas that a burglar will try to access. A few weeks before your planned vacation, test your locks. That way, you'll have time to hire a locksmith to replace any locks that need it.
2. Install a Home Security System
Home security systems greatly reduce the chance that a home will be burglarized. Many systems nowadays . ...

The winter months leave many of us dreaming for warmer temperatures, lush trees, green yards, and even more fresh produce. Wouldn't it be lovely to have a little garden that can provide for you? I know that thought has gone through my own head several times! Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean that you can't go ahead and get started on planning and preparing for your spring garden. Getting a head start on planning your garden can better prepare you for the upkeep and maintenance, as well as help prepare what plants will be best for your land! Each garden is unique, having special properties that require different needs and requirements. Starting now can help you take on the gardening task in full force with little worry!
Know Your Soil
The soil in your garden is your foundation. Knowing what it can grow and what it needs to improve is crucial. You don't want to spend time and energy and money trying to grow things that simply won't grow because the soil isn't made for it! ...

East Tennessee has seen snow coming in recently, and it's possible we'll see more! January and February tend to be the months that we see the most snow. That means it's crucial to be prepared for the colder weather. With snow and ice, many things can happen and lead to costly disasters. Preparing your home, and you and your family, for these chilly months can make a world of difference. Not only will your home be safer, but so will you. 

1. Winterize Your Pipes
The main concern we see is that of pipes freezing and bursting. Using foam, heating cables, or pipe sleeves can help prevent this from happening by providing extra insulation that keeps the pipes warm. Additionally, seal any cracks in your home's exterior to keep the cold air from getting in. Insulate pipes inside and outside of your home for the best chance against freezing and bursting.
Make sure to drain any outside water hoses and water sprinklers. You can set your hose pipes to drip when you know there will be a p. ...