New Products

Solar hot water in a box

Solar hot water in a box

A new DIY solar hot water system has been introduced by Fafco, a Chico-based company that specializes in solar pool heaters. The new system can be installed by two homeowners in half a day, the company claims, and the whole thing weighs just 62 pounds. And it comes in a box! The system costs around…

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Trex now more wood-like

Trex now more wood-like

There’s a lot to like about Trex or other composite decking materials. They don’t splinter, split, rot or need painting or staining. And they’re made from cast-off stuff like milk jugs and wood pallets. In fact, Trex claims it uses 50 percent of the grocery bags we recycle in the U.S., and that every year…

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After 400 years, a comeback

After 400 years, a comeback

The 400-year-old Dutch-door style is making a “major comeback,” according to door and window manufacturer Jeld-Wen. You have to admit, Dutch doors are fun: Close the bottom half to keep toddlers and Lassie inside, but open the top for light, air flow and to connect with the neighborhood. (If you’re trying to keep a cat…

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Fingerprint scanning: Coming to a door near you

Fingerprint scanning: Coming to a door near you

The trouble with affluence is that people come into your house — people other than your family and friends — and this may cause security jitters. Get enough income and you’re likely to accumulate a housekeeper, a nanny, and a housesitter. And if you undertake a remodel, all kinds of tradespeople need access to your…

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