Trade Resources

Range Hoods: Thinking Out of the Box

Suddenly, the words "stylish" and "nearly silent" share the same sentence with "range hood."

With the kitchen as a home's focal point, appliance designers have the dual challenge to create high-performance…Read More

Small Tweaks, Big Results

It doesn't take a lot of money to transform an interior.

Customers are scrutinizing their budgets, and competition for customers is at a fever pitch. To wow their clients, construction and…Read More

The Showroom Advantage

If you're a construction pro lacking a great showroom partner, you're missing out.

It can be hard for consumers to choose options and upgrades based solely on a catalog or website.…Read More

Digital Cooking and Bathing: Poised for the Mainstream

Appliances and fixtures are becoming smarter, faster and more efficient.

While electronic technology has been slower to dominate in the kitchen and bathroom than in other parts of the house, it…Read More

The Moen Curved Shower Rod

Frequent travelers expect certain amenities in hotel rooms, and in the bath that includes a comfortable, spacious shower experience. The Moen curved shower rod offers up to 7-1/2 extra inches…Read More

Trend Setter

Moen's new Arbor™ suite includes kitchen designers' most-wanted features.

Faucets with pullout spray heads will likely continue to grow in popularity, according to this year's Top 10 trend predictions by the…Read More

Welcoming Touches

Guest bathrooms tend to be afterthoughts, but little touches can go a long way toward making them more inviting.

We've all seen what serves as a guest bath in most homes:…Read More

A Sink For All Spaces

As a design statement, the versatile vessel sink will work with nearly any bath.

Vessel sinks have gotten a reputation that they don't deserve. "They're maligned by the $100 glass ones…Read More

Bathed in Luxury

No longer will your clients have to check in to a resort hotel for an ultimate bath experience.

A lot of high-end homeowners want bath designs inspired by luxury hotels…Read More

The Evolution of Cabinetry and Flooring

New material options highlight value and sustainability.

There are two big items customers want built into their homes these days -- value and sustainability. New materials in cabinetry and flooring are…Read More

A Common Valve System Cuts Costs and Time

The MPact faucet line's ease-of-installation is proving a hit with consumers and pros.

Moen's MPact faucet line has gotten rave reviews from pros and consumers alike for its ease of installation.…Read More

Surprisingly Familiar

Designers are changing the way they outfit homes to include a mix of contemporary and traditional products and finishes

The rules about which products work in a traditional modern home are…Read More

Modern or Contemporary?

Not clarifying these terms can cost you sales - you may not even know why

What do home buyers mean when they talk about modern or contemporary design? We asked interior…Read More

Retro Redux

What was old is becoming new again

Solomon had it right: "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again." That's certainly true in the world…Read More

Young at Heart

Contemporary, universal design for older buyers marries form and function

For years, builders have lived by the buying power of the baby boomer generation. As many boomers seek 55-or-older communities, their…Read More

Rethinking Neutral Colors

New rules for painting to sell

Color can be intensely personal and emotional. It can wake us up or calm us down, make us want to linger or send us running…Read More

White Cabinets: They Really Do Go With Everything

Designers warming to cool white cabinets

Although some kitchen designers say that no one's asking for white cabinets, don't…Read More

Peaking Interest with Exterior Color

Dressing the home to sell

"Color is the marketing tool of the 21st century," says color consultant James Martin. "There's not a product sold where it doesn't affect people's buying decisions."…Read More

Coordinating Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Making sense of where indoors and out meet

A decade ago, outdoor living spaces were often an afterthought. The typical patio might have a plain concrete deck with aluminum-framed chairs, a…Read More

The Flexible Home Office

Great home offices glide between public and private use

Good home-office design is all about productivity, organization and efficiency. Everyone understands that these spaces need plenty of storage and good lighting,…Read More

Suites Truly Made for the Master

A great master suite should be the ultimate "me" space

Think about it - homeowners start and end their days in their bedrooms, making the…Read More

Organizing the Heart of the Home

Today's kitchens need creative storage options

The kitchen is where most families seem to spend the bulk of their time. "It's become an office, a den, a porch and a multipurpose…Read More

Bringing Back the Nook

Mini-retreats will help buyers warm to your homes

Many of today's new homes combine the kitchen, dining room and family room into one large blended area: the ubiquitous great room. But…Read More

How to Build Accessibility Into Every Home

Accessible design techniques in wide demand

Universal design is creeping into the standard American home almost unnoticed. And that's the point. The goal of universal design is to build a house…Read More

Beyond Granite

While stone countertops remain popular, more buyers are looking for alternatives

For years, granite countertops have topped the dream list for luxury home buyers and kitchen remodelers. But once granite started…Read More

Traditional Cabinets Trendy Again

In 2010, customers will continue to warm to the familiar

The latest trend in kitchen cabinet finishes is a return to tradition. Designers and manufacturers alike report increased demand among new-home…Read More

No Tub? No Problem

Cost-conscious buyers are accepting master baths with showers only

Do you still need to install a tub in the master bath? Not too long ago the answer was an unqualified "yes,"…Read More

Baths: Doing More With Less

Making a small master bath look and feel larger

There's no question that master bathrooms are important spaces. As the room where most people start and end their day, the last…Read More

Deciphering the Language of Design

Modern or contemporary? Interpreting what customers say to give them what they want.

For most people, the words "modern" and "contemporary" conjure up images of white cabinets, polished chrome hardware,…Read More

Outdoor Kitchen

Designers share their tips for creating the perfect outdoor kitchen

The outdoor kitchen used to consist of a grill, a set of tongs and a plastic cooler to ice down the…Read More

What Makes a Mudroom Marvelous?

The latest ideas and trends for elevating mudrooms from functional to fantastic.

A spacious, high-performing mudroom isn't always near the top of homeowners' must-have list. But it's surprising how often…Read More

Trends in Spa Showers

Buyers want great design and comfort, but only if it's practical and affordable.

The shower could serve as a barometer of home-buyer psychology. For example, a few years ago home builder…Read More

Small Home. Big Value.

Construction and design secrets for maximizing space and livability.

Designers and builders looking for lessons on how to maximize space should consider a recent project called Home for the New Economy.…Read More

Why Outdoor Living Is on the Rise

Outdoor living spaces are changing home "interiors"

According to new research from the Propane Education and Research Council, the popularity of outdoor living spaces is on the rise: Approximately 42 percent…Read More

How Tech Touches Are Changing Home Design

Home layouts must accommodate electronics, period

Most builders do a good job of anticipating new technologies in their home designs. Some put charging stations in mudrooms for electronic gadgets; some outfit…Read More

Six Merchandising Tips for the Design Center

It’s tough for most people to imagine which shade of granite countertop will go best with cherry cabinets and oil-rubbed bronze faucets. That’s why design centers and showrooms are so…Read More

What You Need to Know About Virtual Design Centers

Builders who use virtual design center (VDC) technology find it a great tool for helping customers choose options. A VDC can take the place of a physical design center or…Read More

7 Promising Niche Products

At the International Builders' Show, we looked for small companies with big ideas.

Each year, companies big and small use the International Builders' Show to introduce their best products to the…Read More

The Art of the Backsplash

These small spaces can add an affordable style boost.

Backsplashes have always been a great way for home buyers to express their personal taste in the kitchen and that's especially true…Read More

New Flooring Options

New choices appeal to budget-conscious and environmentally sensitive buyers.

Flooring selection is one of the most important - and expensive - decisions that buyers make in a new home, so it's…Read More

Affordable Accents

Dress up cabinets with quality hardware.

Home buyers are trying to balance the need to save money with the desire to create a great kitchen, and decorative hardware can help them…Read More

The Art of Mixing Finishes

An eclectic blend will appeal to today's buyer. The trick is doing it tastefully.

At the height of the building boom, builders had to move fast to stay on top of…Read More

Innovations in Range Hoods

Creative thinking is giving kitchen designers new options.

Kitchen ventilation might not seem like an area of design that would generate much excitement or innovation: Most people are far more interested…Read More

Choosing Outdoor Appliances

The harsh Gulf Coast environment shows which appliances will stand the test of time.

The outdoor kitchen remains popular with home buyers everywhere. Builders who want their outdoor projects to look…Read More

Fixture Finishes

In designing kitchens and bathrooms, one of the most basic yet crucial choices to make is the finish for sink, shower and toilet fixtures. Designer Michael Payne says it’s “inconceivable”…Read More

Affordable Gem

The powder room, also known as a half-bath, is a unique space. It’s typically the smallest room in the house, and at some time or another it’s likely that every…Read More

Setting Your Homes Apart

Differentiation has always been important for professionals working in the housing industry, but in a market as saturated and as price-sensitive as the one we have today, it’s critical to…Read More

How to Capitalize on the Growing 'Remodeling Lite' Market

There was a time when homeowners thought big about remodeling - adding a second floor or gutting a kitchen to create a totally new space. Today, most have dramatically scaled…Read More

ioDIGITAL -- Innovative and Easy to Install

Moen's state-of-the-art electronic valve lets users personalize their bathing experience, and it's easier to install and retrofit than traditional plumbing.

ioDIGITAL -- As Easy as It Is Innovative
Moen offers proof that…Read More

Choosing Colors for 2011

Steering clients towards colors they will naturally warm to is part of the designer's job. That makes color forecasts an indispensable tool.

Ever-shifting tastes have always complicated the process of helping…Read More

Smaller and Smarter

Changing public spaces in new homes

In the McMansion era of home building, bigger definitely seemed better, especially in the public spaces where family and friends gather. But while soaring foyers…Read More

Playing it Safe

Homeowners still care about design -- but they're willing to make some tradeoffs.

The economy has had a definite impact on home design and the kitchen is no exception. With…Read More

Moen Hands-Free Faucets - Breakthrough Performance

New features take commercial faucet technology several steps forward.

Who hasn't visited a commercial restroom and waved their hands in front of a stubborn faucet sensor? Early versions of hands-free faucet…Read More

Moen Helps You Buy American

Products manufactured in the U.S. are helping contractors meet the requirements of government contracts.

In an effort to spur economic growth and protect American jobs, certain federal laws relating to government-funded…Read More

A New Landscape for Designers and Contractors

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is transforming design and construction opportunities lie ahead.

BIM is a game changer for the building industry. Experts say it will dominate big architectural firms within five…Read More

First Look: Eco-Performance Shower Systems

New WaterSense certified shower systems provide the highest level of performance while lowering operation and maintenance costs for your building.

Moen's Commercial Division has created a safe and effective solution for…Read More

Challenge: Choosing Plumbing Fixtures for High-Traffic Restrooms

Open all day, every day, TravelCenters of America's restrooms and shower facilities need to stand up to constant use and sometimes misuse.

When TA began planning renovations at more than 60…Read More

Moen's New Thermostatic Mixing Valves

Meet codes while offering improved health, safety and comfort

At a Glance: The New Thermostatic Mixing Valves
Help plumbers meet code requirements while offering improved health, safety and comfort

Moen now offers two…Read More

New Pint and Dual Flush Valves

Commercial valves that save water are easy to maintain, and keep public restrooms cleaner.

Moen has added two new flush valves to the M•Power line of sensor-operated products: a Pint Flush…Read More

The BIM Steam Roller

Building information Modeling is transforming the design industry, but there are bumps ahead on its road to dominance.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) will dominate big architectural firms within five years, and…Read More

Preventing Vandalism

Beat the Bathroom Bullies
Combine tough products and smart design to get the best of restroom vandals.

Vandalism in public restrooms is no joke. Perpetrators might find it funny to deface walls,…Read More

Easing Water Woes

Cut water use without sacrificing style

With the recent drought conditions in the Southeast and ongoing water concerns in the Southwest and California, water conservation has become extremely important to many…Read More

Putting Green Where It's Seen

Make your green statement in the kitchen

The biggest green payoffs may be hidden in the walls of the home, but if you want to be known as a green builder,…Read More

Green Jump Start

Once you're going, building green is easy

A builder could break the bank trying to incorporate every green technology and product on the market today. But it's possible to build a…Read More

Selling Green: Engaging the Buyer

How to get your customers excited about buying green

Salespeople know that a big part of clinching a sale is creating an emotional attachment to the home. This can be a…Read More

What Is a Green Home, Anyway?

The right definition can ease financial worries

NAHB predicts that by 2010, roughly 10 percent of home starts will be green. While that means green homes are still a niche product,…Read More

Choosing Green Kitchen Surfaces

How to get the most bang with the least impact

The perfect green product doesn't pollute the home's air or use energy, is manufactured locally with no harmful chemicals and no…Read More

The Path Forward for Paint

Sixty years after the introduction of latex, the quest for low-toxin paint continues to be the driving force behind paint manufacturers’ research and development efforts. In fact, those efforts are…Read More

Luxury Buyers Pursue Green Bragging Rights

Can a luxury home really be green? The question is a topic of debate among conservationists, especially since — until recently — "luxury" has typically meant sprawling complexes that consume…Read More

Retirees and Move-Down Buyers Want Energy and Health

Home buyers who are ready to retire have key things in common with people who are a few years younger but wish to move into smaller homes. And when it…Read More

Move-Up Buyers Seek Energy Savings

Researchers at nationally recognized real estate strategy firm RCLCO, based in Washington, D.C., have done extensive studies on what motivates people to buy green homes. They've found that people tend…Read More

First-Time Buyers Have Done Their Green Homework

Young, first-time home buyers tend to be more educated on the subject of sustainability than are other groups. Design-builder Michael Anschel says that when he talks with young people about…Read More

CalGreen Sets Higher Standards for Water Conservation

Watch for ripple effects coming to products, homes and building codes near you.

Portions of CalGreen, California's new building code, went into effect Jan. 1, 2011, with other portions going into…Read More

Home Energy Monitors

They help homeowners reduce their electric bill by showing them exactly how much they're using, and there's a model for every budget.

The biggest hurdle to reducing home energy use is…Read More

Helping Homeowners Breathe Easier

A healthy indoor environment is a hallmark of a green, high-quality home. Here are some products that will help keep your customers breathing easier.

By common definition, a green home…Read More

Good Sense

WaterSense® designation is a marketing opportunity for plumbers and builders alike.

WaterSense® designation from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) appears poised to become as ubiquitous and industry-changing as the EPA's…Read More

Make Any Home an Energy Miser

With energy costs rising, it's a perfect time to improve your home's performance with these easy-to-implement (but often overlooked) ideas and products.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that Americans will…Read More

Beyond ENERGY STAR®

The program has been so successful getting manufacturers to build more-efficient appliances that buyers are now looking for more.

By all accounts, ENERGY STAR has been a raving success. The program…Read More

20 Ways to Save Water Without Sacrificing Performance

Go the extra mile and help clients reduce water use - you can save them money and help protect the environment.

Bath

• Choose fixtures certified to meet WaterSense criteria, which…Read More

The Next Wave of Water Savings

Water conservation programs are popping up around the country. Is it time for your approach to go beyond the basics?

Water-saving washers and dishwashers. High-efficiency and dual-flush toilets. Eco performance showerheads…Read More

Fair Green Value

Steps you can take to help a green home appraise for its full value.

The Appraisal Institute is working to catch up with green building practices and has designed…Read More

Six Ways to Build an Energy Miser

With winter quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to improve the performance of your homes with these easy-to-implement - but often-overlooked - ideas and products.

Alternative energy systems like solar…Read More

Why You Need a Green Certification

Contractors and projects increasingly have to meet objective green standards.

Just a few years ago, designers and builders could develop their own in-house standards for "green" construction and consider themselves leaders…Read More

A Town is Reborn - Green

Greensburg, Kansas proves that a community can pull together and transform itself into a green community. Here's how.

What do you do when a tornado plows through your town, killing 12…Read More

Making the Most of Social Media

Social media can help grow your business — but don’t forget the personal touch.

A lot of people are buzzing about the advantages of social media as a business tool. But many…Read More

Selling Safety in the Bath

The key to success is emphasizing style.

A growing consumer demographic will always bring an opportunity for increased sales, and that's certainly the case for the world's fastest-growing demographic - older…Read More

Easy Ways to Build and Sell Green

Selling green doesn't require reinventing the wheel

With green all the rage these days, many builders are wondering how…Read More

Smart Ways to Reduce Construction Costs

Consultants help builders cut costs without sacrificing design or quality

Of all the trends bearing down on home builders, falling home prices might be the most serious. With steep price reductions…Read More

The Three P's of Selling Upgrades

Selling options and upgrades has always been a vital part of the business model for builders, remodelers and designers. With the market slowdown, designers have the time to give buyers…Read More

Prevent Buyer Remorse

Cancellations are an all-too-frequent occurrence in today’s market. Buyers have always had a tendency to get home from a design center appointment and wonder if they’ve just lost their minds,…Read More

Is Now the Time to Invest in Marketing?

Faced with the toughest housing market in memory, Columbus, Ohio-based M/I Homes has suffered the same hits as other production builders. The company, which is ranked by Builder magazine as…Read More

Working With Gen Y Home Buyers

Technology is critical to working successfully with this new generation In sheer numbers, Gen Y, or the Millennial Generation, is as large a group of consumers as the Baby Boomers —…Read More

What Builders Need to Know About Pay-per-Click Advertising

PPC can be a powerful and cost-effective way of attracting customers, but few builders are taking advantage of it.

The vast majority of prospective home buyers start their search for a…Read More

What You Need to Know About Bundling Strategies for 2010

If you're a builder or designer, chances are you've long understood the benefits of bundling options into packages. Packaging can encourage customers to choose upgraded products and almost always speeds…Read More

Why Social Media Really Works

How you can benefit from a fundamental shift in the way we communicate.

According to Erik Qualman, author of "Socialnomics: How Social Media Transforms the Way We Live and Do Business,"…Read More

Winning the Referral Game

Making online ambassadors of your customers pays big dividends. Here's a crash course.

Getting referrals has always been a matter of doing good work and taking care of customers. While…Read More

Profit Boosters

Pros give their tips for making remodeling jobs more profitable.

All remodelers want to make their jobs more profitable without sacrificing quality. But where to start? To find out, we interviewed…Read More

Use a Lead Sheet to Weed Out Tire Kickers

Although most contractors don't use this simple tool, it's a definite business builder.

Paul Winans has seen contractors waste endless hours chasing jobs that earn them too little, and prospects who…Read More

Planning is Everything

Take charge of the planning process with this free, customer-friendly guide.

Managing customer expectations -- every remodeler knows it's key to any successful project. There's a tool for that: Moen's…Read More