What's The Average Lifespan Of A Concrete Patio?
Concrete is known for its durability, but it doesn’t last forever. When you build a patio with it, how long will it hold up? Here’s what you need to know.
Read MoreCaitlin Ritchie
House Digest Editorial Policies
House Digest uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the always-evolving conversations surrounding design and home trends, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert takes and tutorials from our talented team.
As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Caitlin Ritchie
-
-
Not Lowe's, Not Home Depot: The Appliance Store Ranked Lowest By Consumer Reports
Shopping for a home appliance can be a daunting enough process, so you'll definitely want to avoid this store that Consumer Reports customers dislike.
Read More -
Not Refrigerators, Not Dishwashers: The Kitchen Appliance That's Raising Your Electric Bill
This is a staple appliance in virtually every kitchen, but most people aren't aware just how much electricity it can waste if not used properly.
Read More -
Consumer Reports Names The Best French-Door Refrigerator Brand For 2026
French-door fridges look great, but which ones actually last? We looked at the latest Consumer Reports data to find the best brands for value and durability.
Read More -
Not LG, Not GE: Consumer Reports Says This Side-By-Side Refrigerator Is More Reliable
If you're looking for a new fridge that will last for years to come, you may want to seek out this brand that's approved by Consumer Reports members.
Read More -
Consumer Reports Compared Affordable Refrigerators And One Came Out On Top
Consumer Reports members ranked this affordable refrigerator the highest in several categories, awarding it a near-perfect predicted reliability score.
Read More -
Consumer Reports Names The Best Home Security System For 2026
Consumer Reports polled its readers on which security system they preferred for their own homes and one brand took first place, standing out among the others.
Read More -
Consumer Reports Is Calling This Microwave One Of The Least Reliable
If you're looking for the best microwave for your new kitchen, be sure to avoid the poorly rated microwave that was called unreliable by Consumer Reports.
Read More -
The Companion Plant That Can Give Garden Tomatoes A Healthy Boost
This companion gives tomato plants a boost by protecting them from harmful pests. Grow it alongside your tomatoes for a healthy and delicious harvest.
Read More -
Turn Old Children's Books Into A Stunning Vintage Gallery Wall
If you're looking for a unique vintage accent to add to your walls, try this easy DIY that uses old children's picture books to create whimsical decor.
Read More -
What It Means If You Find Clumps Of Animal Fur In Your Yard
Finding signs of animal activity in your yard can be both exciting and perplexing. Here's what it may mean if you find random clumps of fur on your lawn.
Read More -
Don't Throw Away Trader Joe's Bags: Use Them As A Sustainable Seed Starter
An eco-friendly gardening tool might be hiding at your local Trader Joe's. Use their paper shopping bags for this beginner-friendly seed-starting DIY.
Read More -
What To Do If You Find A Turtle Nesting In Your Yard
A turtle in your yard might be a fun surprise, but it's important to follow certain precautions to keep the animal, you, and your family safe.
Read More -
Turn A Plastic Lid Into A Smart Cover For Your Bird Feeder
A cover can make your bird feeder more inviting for feathered friends, and you don’t need to run out and buy one — all you need is an old plastic lid.
Read More -
For Healthy & Delicious Root Vegetables, This Is The Only Way You Should Plant Them
How you plant root vegetables affects how they grow, including their taste and appearance. For the best development, there's only one method to use.
Read More -
What To Do If You Find A Huge Pile Of Bird Feathers In Your Yard
There's something unsettling about finding a big pile of bird feathers in your yard, but knowing what to do if you come across such a sight is key.
Read More -
Have Trouble With Setting Your Backsplash Tile In Place? This Product Might Help
If you're struggling to get your backsplash tile looking just right, this product could save you tons of time on your next tile DIY project.
Read More -
No Need For A Bulky Bird Feeder: The Affordable Alternative You Can Find At ALDI
If your yard isn't big enough for a bird feeder, or you don't have any outdoor space in the first place, ALDI's handy alternative is the perfect solution.
Read More -
The Best Way To Attract Bluebirds To Bird Feeders
Bluebirds are beautiful, colorful, and finicky. But there's a couple of ways to make your garden or yard more attractive to these avian friends.
Read More -
How To Differentiate Between Bee Hives And Wasp Nests In Your Yard
It might feel too risky to get up close to a nest in your yard. Tell the different between a wasp and bee habitat at a glance with these simple tips.
Read More -
Turn Leftover Scrap Wood Into A Chic, Customizable Coffee Table (That Doesn't Break The Bank)
You can turn leftover scrap wood into a unique, customizable coffee table that looks so high-end — and it can cost less than $50 to pull off.
Read More -
No More Boring Brick: The Eco-Friendly Alternative That Gives Your Driveway A Historic Touch
This eco-friendly alternative adds instant authenticity and character to your driveway — serving up historic charm without the environmental impact.
Read More -
Stop Taking Up Precious Shelf Space — There's A Better Way To Keep Blankets Organized
Folding large blankets is not the best way to store them as they hog space on shelves and inside drawers. This alternative is better to maximize space.
Read More -
The Once-Popular, Rustic Front Door Choice You May Live To End Up Regretting
Although these rustic doors enjoyed immense popularity not long ago, designers have soured on them, and for a reason. Here's why you may regret getting one.
Read More -
Making Your Own Lampshade? Don't Forget This Step To Ensure It's Not A Fire Hazard
DIY lampshades are a crafty way to give new life to an old fixture. However, there's one crucial material needed to ensure the shade's fabric isn't a fire risk.
Read More -
The Bathroom Floor Tile Trend That Will Dominate In 2026
While very functional, tiled bathroom floors aren't always unique. This trend set to dominate in 2026 aims to change that with a fun, bespoke style.
Read More -
The Elegant Landscaping That Gives Your Driveway An "Old Money" Look
The old money look gives your home a quiet elegance. Specific plantings along your driveway help achieve that look in your landscaping to welcome guests.
Read More
