Proper home maintenance is essential for protecting your investment and keeping your property in top condition. Our ‘Home Maintenance’ series provides practical, easy-to-follow guidance for homeowners across the Twin Cities. From seasonal checklists and preventative upkeep to repairs, energy efficiency tips, and long-term planning, these articles help you understand how to care for your home in Minneapolis–St. Paul’s unique climate. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned one, this category offers clear steps to maintain comfort, safety, and value year-round.



Ice Dams in Minnesota Homes: What They Are, How to Remove Them & How to Prevent Them

Ice Damns

Ice dams are one of the most common—and costly—winter maintenance issues for Minnesota homeowners. From older homes in Southwest Minneapolis to newer construction in the western suburbs and even historic properties in St. Paul, ice dams can cause roof damage, interior leaks, and long-term moisture problems if not addressed correctly.

This guide explains what ice dams are, why they form, how to safely deal with them once they appear, and—most importantly—how to prevent them in the future.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam forms when snow on a roof melts, flows down toward the eaves, and then refreezes. Over time, this creates a thick ridge of ice that blocks…

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Ways to Access Money for Home Renovations

Accessing Money for Home Renovations

Renovating your home can enhance comfort, increase value, and improve functionality. Whether you’re a homeowner with equity or looking to purchase a new home, there are several ways to secure funding for your renovation projects.

For Homeowners with Equity

If you already own your home and have built up equity, there are various financing options available:

  • Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): A HELOC allows you to borrow against your home’s equity. It functions like a credit card, giving you access to funds as needed.
  • Home Equity Loan: This is a lump-sum loan secured by your home’s equity. It typically has a fixed interest rate and is repaid over a set…

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2025 Home Design & Feature Trends

What’s hot now for interiors, exteriors, materials, smart-home tech, and wellness-focused living.

Updated: September 29, 2025 

In this guide

  1. Interiors & Exteriors: Shapes, Textures, Materials
  2. Smart Homes & Tech: EV, Automation, Whole-Home Batteries
  3. Wellness Design: Spa Baths, Biophilic Design, Indoor/Outdoor Harmony
  4. Renovation ROI: What To Prioritize in 2025
  5. Quick FAQs
Soft curves, layered textures, and seamless transitions to outdoor spaces headline 2025’s look.

1) Interiors & Exteriors: Shapes, Textures, Materials

Curves & Rounded Geometry

From coved corners to arched openings and curved islands, softer lines are replacing sharp, rectilinear forms. Curves visually…

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Essential Summer Home Maintenance Tips for Minnesota Homeowners

Plus: Bonus Tips for Your Northwoods Cabin or Lake Home

Summer in Minnesota is short, sweet, and packed with activity. Whether you're a year-round resident or a seasonal cabin-goer, summer is the perfect time to stay ahead of home maintenance tasks. From prepping for sudden storms to managing mosquitoes, these tips are tailored for the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

1. Inspect and Seal Windows & Doors

  • Keep cool air in and humid air and pests out.
  • Look for signs of water intrusion or warped frames from spring thaw.

2. Check Roof & Gutters After Spring Storms

  • Hail and strong winds can damage shingles.
  • Clear out maple seeds and pine needles to prevent clogging.

3.…

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