Planning a big remodel? Consider our 2025 Home Renovation Awards your ultimate guide to ensuring style, performance, efficiency and value. From flooring to roofing, our expert picks cover it all. Even if you’re just looking to maintain your current home, you’ll find a slew of great products to upgrade your space, including stain-resistant paints and genius smart home devices.
Along with our perennial categories like bath, kitchen and outdoor gear, we’re introducing new ones this year. Our Sustainability Innovators highlight products that enhance your home with minimal environmental impact; we’ve also added Media Room Musts, featuring top home entertainment picks from the world of consumer electronics.
With 77 winners, this is our biggest list of award winners to date. Still, our judges had a tough time narrowing it down, given the breadth and quality of this year’s submissions. But hey, that just means more fantastic options for building and maintaining your dream home.
What sets the Home Reno Awards apart is the extent to which our on-staff product experts get hands-on with every submission. Given the importance of style and aesthetics to remodeling, we also called on GH’s design mavens, led by Home Design Director Monique Valeris, for their take on dozens of design-forward submissions.
We also brought in outside judges with decades of experience: Houston-based homebuilder and developer Fernando Pagés Ruiz, in his third year of judging; contractor and real estate developer Marc Savatzky, returning for year two; and Tyler Graham, lawn care expert and editor of The Lawn Review, joining us for his first year.
Much of the testing took place in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. For example, this is where we ran stain and abrasion tests on award-winning countertops, decking and flooring. Engineers in the Lab also performed thorough reviews of technical data provided by brands to verify claims around performance, safety and sustainability.
Since it’s vital to understand how products perform in real-world conditions, we also sent samples into the homes of our experienced consumer testers. Some received power tools, putting them to use on projects around the house. Others took in air purifiers and humidifiers for several months, then reported back on factors like usability and how well the equipment improved their indoor air quality.
Kitchen All-Stars | Exterior Enhancements | Best in Bath | Sustainability Innovators | Media Room Musts | Top Tools & Power Equipment | Outdoor Living Extras | Smartest Home Security | Home Comfort Essentials | Helpful Home Services | Winning Windows & Doors
Innovative Induction Range
Table of Contents
ToggleFisher & Paykel 48″ Series 11 Induction Pyrolytic Range
Induction technology has been popular in restaurants for decades, but it’s only just taking off in home kitchens, especially in places where gas appliances are on the way out. While emissions-free cooking is one benefit of induction, our testers also like its speed and precision. It keeps the kitchen cooler too, since the electromagnetic energy directly heats magnetic cookware instead of heating an element or creating a flame. This 48-inch version from Fisher & Paykel adds an ultra-sleek form factor and expansive cooking capacity, including double ovens (the main one roomy enough for a 32-pound turkey) and a six-element cooktop.
LAB RESULTS: We installed the Fisher & Paykel in our Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab, where our experts could appreciate its solid build and stylish steel-and-glass accents up close. Performance-wise, it lived up to expectations, bringing water to a fast boil and holding a steady simmer. Cookies from the oven came out evenly browned, and the broiler produced juicy steaks with a nice char. Testers did note a clicking sound coming from the cooktop elements — as the brand explained, this is a safety feature designed to prevent users from inadvertently energizing an element, as any magnetic metal will generate heat from the cooktop’s electric currents.
Space-Saving Sink
Delta Everest Workstation Kitchen Sink
Given the sink’s prime location in the kitchen, wouldn’t it be great if it could be used for more than washing dishes and rinsing vegetables? Delta’s Workstation Sink answers that call with its bevy of space-saving accessories, from cutting boards to roll-up dish-drying racks, that greatly expand the functionality of the space. The ready-to-install undermount sink, available in white, gray or black, is made of a composite granite that’s both durable and low-maintenance.
LAB RESULTS: Our Lab experts were impressed by the quality of the nonporous sink and how neatly the assorted accessories fit into its integrated ledge. Boston-based contractor Marc Savatsky, who installed the sink in his own home, noted the attention to detail of the design, “down to the offset drain, which remains unobstructed even when dishes pile up.” The accessories are what really set the Delta apart, and they succeeded in turning his sink space into a true multifunctional workstation. “The drying rack feature is a personal favorite,” Savatsky said. The nonporous composite granite fends off stains, and its sound-absorbing qualities reduce noise — helpful given how much action now happens at the kitchen sink.
Curated Faucet Collection
Kohler Components Kitchen Faucet Collection
With hundreds of makes and models across dozens of brands to choose from, the kitchen faucet is one of the hardest decisions on a home remodel. Yet it’s critical given that you interact with it all the time, and it’s a big focal point of the kitchen. Kudos to Kohler for pulling together a curated selection of stylish, high-performing faucets in its new Components Kitchen Faucet Collection. There’s enough variation in the mix to let you find something special, but not so much that you’ll be overwhelmed. Plus, every faucet in the collection features an innovative sweep spray that’s ideal for cleaning.
LAB RESULTS: These faucets have all the markings of solid construction our engineers look for, like ceramic disc valves and physical vapor deposition (PVD) finishes that resist scratches and stains. To gauge real-world performance, one of our experts installed a single-handle model with an extended-reach spout in her kitchen. Hookup was straightforward, and the faucet delivered excellent cleaning power despite using an efficient 1.5 gallons per minute. “The water pressure is a million times better than that of my old faucet,” our expert reported. “It practically power-washes my dishes clean, so I barely have to do any scrubbing by hand.”
Low-Maintenance Countertops
Caesarstone One of a Kind Collection
Quartz and porcelain are two of our favorite countertop materials because they’re beautiful and hard-wearing and their nonporous construction makes them impervious to stains without the need for periodic sealing. Caesarstone’s newest collection brings the two materials together with a curated selection of colors and designs, making it an excellent choice if you’re planning a kitchen remodel. One of these highly durable countertops will be with you for a long, long time — no small thing considering that you’ll be interacting with it every single day, multiple times a day.
LAB RESULTS: If your goal is to design a timeless kitchen, you can’t go wrong with this collection. “The colors are far from sterile,” says GH’s home design director. “They have a sense of character, and there’s a veining option to suit any style, whether you lean to the minimalist side or prefer to make more of a design statement.” The collection is among the more expensive countertop materials we’ve tested, but you get quality construction and a comprehensive lifetime warranty. Plus the Caesarstone surfaces are Greenguard certified to meet stringent indoor air emissions standards.
State-of-the-Art Steam Oven
Gaggenau 400 Series Combi-Steam Oven
Baking with the addition of steam is a rising trend in food prep, because it’s fast and helps lock in moisture. Gaggenau’s 400 Series steam oven allows you to experiment with this cooking function, or you can simply use it to bake and roast. The beautiful built-in unit is available in 24- and 30-inch widths that will complement any chef’s kitchen. With five humidity levels and temperatures up to 450°F, the oven can handle a slew of recipes on top of dishes you’d typically braise, like short ribs, or you can spritz breads with water before baking for added crispness.
LAB RESULTS: We installed one unit at the Good Housekeeping Institute and another in the Colorado home of an avid chef and entertainer. The oven is unique in that it requires its own water line and drain; that simplifies use and care, though of course the plumbing hookups need to be available. Testers found the interface complex at first, but they ultimately got the hang of it. Lab tests produced tender vegetables and juicy fish. Our home tester liked the ability to take on “other cooking techniques that can’t be done with most conventional ovens, like sous vide.” He added that the oven “stunningly displays food while cooking — great culinary theater for dinner guests who wander into the kitchen.”
Hard-Wearing Interior Paint
Sherwin Williams Scuff Tuff Interior Paint
High-traffic areas of the home like the kitchen need a paint that can take lots of abuse and also be hit with a scrub sponge without losing its shine. This Sherwin-Williams water-based enamel paint was formulated with those requirements in mind. Our paint tests find that durability is often achieved with harsh chemical additives, but the Scuff Tuff is a low-VOC paint that is Greenguard certified for low chemical emissions. It can be tinted to just about any color in the Sherwin Williams ColorSnap Palette, or you can have it color-matched at the store to the hue of your choice.
LAB RESULTS: True to its name, the Scuff Tuff shrugged off 750 passes with fine-grit sandpaper in Lab testing without any sign of surface damage. It also earned high marks for stain resistance. According to one consumer tester who applied the paint to a busy hallway in her home, the paint is hard-wearing and completely odor-free. “You would have never guessed we’d just painted,” she said. There was a bit more shine to the eggshell paint than she expected, something we also noticed during our Lab tests, but that’s a result of the exceptionally durable finish.
Chic Undercabinet Lighting
GE Cync Reveal HD+ Undercabinet Light Fixture
Undercabinet lighting adds an essential layer of task lighting to the kitchen, and adjustable versions can double as a source of soft mood lighting, say, after the dishes have been cleared. The Cync Reveal delivers those benefit and then some. It’s the industry’s first Wi-Fi–connected undercabinet fixture, meaning hassle-free wireless installation along with the ability to control the light by voice command or through the smartphone app. The lights are available in 12-, 18- and 24-inch bars or 3-inch pucks, all with a slim profile and the ability to be strung together in groups of up to 10 fixtures.
LAB RESULTS: All five expert testers who installed the Cync Reveal gave it five stars for color, brightness and overall quality. “Extremely easy to install!” one reported. The fixture’s smart capability was another favorite feature. “I like that I can change the light color depending on the desired ambiance,” said a reviewer. The Cync app makes it easy to set schedules, including programming the lights to turn on and off when you’re away from home to deter would-be burglars. A few testers noted that the connections for the fixtures were a bit chunky, so if you’re going for an ultra-clean look, you might want to install a valance, or decorative trim, along the bottom edge of your cabinets.
Versatile Refrigerator
Hisense 4-Door Smart Refrigerator
Four-door refrigerators are a newer configuration in the category, featuring French doors on top, a middle drawer, and a bottom freezer. Like most, Hisense’s version offers temperature control, adjustable from 27°F to 41°F, on the middle drawer so it can serve as extra fridge space, a chilling drawer for beverages or a soft freezer for ice cream and other treats. The 36-inch-wide refrigerator has a claimed capacity of 25.6 cubic feet and offers many smart storage features that make it feel even bigger, including gallon door bins and adjustable shelves.
LAB RESULTS: Our market analysts were quick to point out that the Hisense costs hundreds less than other four-door fridges. Independent testing reviewed by our engineers showed solid temperature control throughout the fridge’s three compartments. Several months of in-home testing found the same. Home testers also liked the storage features. “I love that a section of shelf can slide back to allow tall for tall items,” one tester observed. Another added that the controls were so intuitive that her 10-year-old had mastered them in no time. She also liked the Wi-Fi connectivity and the companion app, which sends helpful maintenance reminders, such as one advising when the water filter needs to be replaced.
European-Inspired Countertops
Wilsonart Thinscape Performance Tops
Doing something different with kitchen counters usually means spending more and waiting longer for a custom installation. Here’s the beauty of Wilsonart’s Thinscape Performance Tops. With their ½-inch profile (about half that of traditional countertops) and luxurious stone patterns, the countertops have a European-inspired elegance, but the engineered product can be measured, made, and installed in a few short weeks for as little as $35 per square foot, which is about the cost of other entry-level countertop materials like laminate, tile and solid surfacing.
LAB RESULTS: Our design experts were smitten with the color and patterns of the countertops. “The slabs look beautiful and timeless,” said GH’s associate lifestyle editor, noting the subtle veining of the faux-stone designs. The expert tester who installed Thinscape in the kitchen of her home in New Jersey commended the speed and professionalism of the process. She opted for the Soluna marble with a diagonal edge treatment, called a sharknose. “The thin countertops lend an elegant look to the kitchen,” she reported. “Plus, it’s been easy to keep the surface clean.” Our experts also like that the material carries Greenguard’s Gold Certification for minimal impact on indoor air quality.
Hands-Free Faucet
Delta Trinsic Touch2O Touchless Pull Down Sprayer
Looking for something more high-tech in your next kitchen faucet? Hands-free operation is the latest of the available bells and whistles, and manufacturers continue to improve its responsiveness, which could be a little finicky in the early days. Delta’s Trinsic Touch2O is a single-handled fixture with a high-arc gooseneck design that swivels 360 degrees for maximum reach. Another innovation that caught our eye is the temperature-indicating LED light, which changes from blue to magenta to red as the water gets hotter — a nice safety feature in homes with small kids.
LAB RESULTS: Though the Trinsic Touch2O is loaded with technology, its clean lines and classic finishes play well in any style of kitchen. Our engineers noted the quality construction, including a powerful magnet that keeps the pullout sprayer securely docked when not in use. Testers loved the hands-free control for its hygiene, ease of use and efficiency. “There are so many times when I don’t turn off the water because my hands are covered in egg yolks or chicken juice,” explained one tester. “Now I can just wave my hand under the faucet.” For good measure, the Trinsic Touch2O features automatic shutoff after 4 minutes, since we’ve all been guilty of forgetting to turn the water off when leaving the kitchen.
First-Class Fiber Cement Siding
Hardie Artisan Lap Siding
James Hardie has been synonymous with fiber cement siding since it first developed the material in the mid-1980s. About one-fifth of new homes are clad in the durable, low-maintenance material, and it’s popular with remodelers too. James Hardie continues to innovate, as is evident in its Hardie Artisan Lap Siding, which features deep shadow lines and the unique option of mitered corners for an attractive, streamlined siding. Another key feature is the HardieZone System, whereby planks are fabricated with specific climate conditions in mind — for example, extra resistance to cracking in cold regions or moisture protection for areas that see a lot of rain.
LAB RESULTS: As a GH Seal holder, Hardie Artisan Lap Siding has undergone thorough review by our engineers to verify its resistance to frigid temps, strong winds, fire, moisture, insects and more. Professional home builder Fernando Pages used the material on his Houston home to assess its ease of installation, appearance and long-term performance. Pages called the material “an exceptional choice for discerning home builders seeking a cladding material with a flat, smooth and subtle finish.” Of the James Hardie-aligned contractor who performed the installation, he said, “They executed the project with care, precision, and a high level of competence.” He also likes the siding’s 5/8-inch thickness, which lets it resist “cracking from the impact of a nail gun or another blunt force.”
Wood-Enhancing Stain
Benjamin Moore Woodluxe Acrylic Deck and Siding Stain
Nothing beats the warmth and beauty of a natural wooden deck or fence — until, that is, you stop caring for it properly. Periodic staining is the most important maintenance measure, and any A+ job starts with a top-notch stain. Benjamin Moore’s paints are favorites with our experts and the go-to for many professionals, given their smooth finish and exceptional performance. Now the brand is bringing those chops to the stain category. Its latest launch, Woodluxe, promises all-weather protection for vertical and horizontal surfaces in water- and oil-based formulas and multiple opacities including translucent, semi-transparent and solid.
LAB RESULTS: Our expert tester applied the Woodluxe stain (oil-based translucent in Chestnut Brown) to a weather-beaten wood deck in New York. The stain loaded onto the paint roller nicely and transferred smoothly and evenly to the wood surface with minimal drips and streaking. Though a single coat was enough to dramatically improve the look of the deck, allowing some of the wood grain to show through, the tester applied a second coat for added protection, knowing that the semitransparent stain would be less durable over time compared with Woodluxe’s solid and ultra solid formulas. The stain has held up well through several months of exposure to blazing heat and thrashing rain without signs of fading, cracking or peeling.
Next-Level Vinyl Siding
Ply Gem Mastic Everplank Luxury Vinyl Siding
Vinyl has been the dominant siding material in the U.S. for the past 50 years. While early-generation versions could be a bit flimsy, the material’s performance and appearance have improved by leaps and bounds. Case in point: EverPlank Luxury Vinyl Siding. Compared with the old hollow-backed panels with their 4-inch laps and visible seams, the 6-inch planks with an integral foam backing and seamless end-to-end construction closely resemble natural wood siding but require almost none of the upkeep it does. The siding comes in a palette of twelve distinctive colors, including neutral grays, blues, browns and beiges.
LAB RESULTS: EverPlank proved particularly stain- and scratch-resistant in our Lab tests. The siding’s foam backing helped it withstand dents and dings from our impact machine, something the hollow vinyl siding of old could never do. Our engineers checked the material’s compliance with various industry standards, including its resistance to warping. We also like that the material meets NFPA 268 (ignition by radiant heat source), as the heat from a gas grill or even the sunlight reflecting off windows can be enough to melt some low-quality vinyl siding. Our experts say very little maintenance should be required for EverPlank — unlike with wood clapboard siding, which needs to be painted or stained every decade or so.
Stunning Stone Veneer
Westlake Royal Building Products Versetta Stone
Stone veneer siding is a less expensive alternative to solid masonry walls. The problem is, it can look cheaper. That’s why we love Versetta Stone, a panelized system from Westlake Royal Building Products. Made from high-density concrete, the 2-square-foot panels are formed in molds crafted from real stone, yielding spitting-image texture and dimension. Because the material is so lightweight, no structural reinforcements are needed during installation, and you don’t have to worry about cutting stones to size or filling joints with mortar. Choose from a variety of designs, including ones resembling slate, granite, marble and limestone.
LAB RESULTS: Our engineers found the tongue-and-groove design of the panelized system simple and straightforward. “You still might want to bring in a professional, especially if there’s any height to the project, but an experienced DIYer won’t be daunted by the installation,” said one of our engineers during testing. The stone veneer held up perfectly in our stain tests, and our design experts were wowed by the aesthetics. “Stunning!” said GH’s home design director. “The veneer looks so realistic, and I can see it giving a home instant curb appeal. This product really leans into a trend of people looking to incorporate more texture into their spaces, even outdoors.”
Enduring Floor Paint
Dutch Boy Porch & Floor Interior/Exterior Paint + Primer
Whether you’re updating a tired old floor or completing a new construction project, floor paint needs to be extremely durable considering that it’s going to be walked on all the time. And if it’s being applied to a surface that’s exposed to the elements, like a covered porch, it should be slip- and fade-resistant. This Dutch Boy floor paint checks all those boxes, delivering impressive results in our tests as confirmed by experts and consumers. Plus, it has a special anti-skid finish that’s ideal for porches and other outdoor surfaces that can get slick, whether from rainfall or morning dew.
LAB RESULTS: This budget-friendly paint aced our fade-resistance test, enduring a week in our accelerator weathering machine, in which intense UV light simulates years of exposure to sunlight. It went on thick in our application tests and dried to a hard finish in just one hour, qualities you want in paint on a floor (though not necessarily on paint that goes on other surfaces in your home, so keep this off walls and ceilings). Said one consumer tester, “The paint is user-friendly, with a nice sheen that’s not overly glossy thanks to its thickness.” One note: Some consumer testers reported that the integrated spout was a tad messy, so be careful when pouring.
Reliable Roofing
Certainteed Landmark Pro Shingles
The roof over your head is no place to cut corners. It’s the first line of defense against lashing rain, pounding hail and the like — plus, it’s an important visual element, adding to your home’s curb appeal (or detracting from it, as the case may be!). CertainTeed’s Landmark Pro is a multilayered architectural shingle, delivering extra protection to your roof as well as the added dimension and shadow effect of traditional wood shakes. The shingles are available in more than 20 colors, from black walnut to silver birch.
LAB RESULTS: Performance tests in the Lab confirmed the Landmark Pro shingles’ extreme durability. Our remodeling experts also noted that the shingles should be easy to install thanks to the strike zone for fast, effective nailing. For good measure, our engineers also reviewed CertainTeed’s extensive third-party testing and certifications, which include a UL Class A fire rating and ASTM Class H wind rating, designating it as a high-performance material for safety, weather resistance, and longevity. The shingles also have proven impact resistance, essential for those who live in regions prone to hailstorms. And if you live in a damp part of the country, the Landmark Pro’s built-in algae protection will ward off unsightly black streaks.
Bathing Beauty
BainUltra Libra Stella 7038
It’s often true with remodeling that what goes around comes around. In the case of high-end bathroom design, that means a resurgence in freestanding tubs, which bring a sculptural form and a spa-like experience to the space. BainUltra is a leader in the handcrafted-tub category, and the Libra Stella is the newest addition to its collection. Measuring 70″ x 38″ x 25″, the oversize soaker boasts a bevy of luxurious features, including integrated arm rests and hot-air jets for deep-massage treatments.
LAB RESULTS: GH’s home design director is a big fan of freestanding tubs, especially those as fully featured as the Libra Stella. “From the heated backrest to the aromatherapy option, this tub is just what you need to turn your bathroom into a true retreat,” she said. “At once modern and luxurious,” added our associate lifestyle editor. Our engineers, meanwhile, liked how function meets form in the Libra Stella, such as in the extra-wide tub deck users can sit on when getting in and out — a nice safety and accessibility feature for people of all ages and abilities. The nonporous finishes should help ensure a hygienic bathing experience with minimal care and cleaning.
Streamlined Shower Filter
Kohler Cinq Filtered Showerhead
The popularity of shower filters has soared in recent years, especially with consumers who live in homes with hard or heavily chlorinated water — conditions that can be tough on hair and skin. Most of the filters we’ve tested are bulky attachments that remove minerals and chemicals from the water before it flows from the existing showerhead. Kohler’s solution is a filter and showerhead in one, delivering a more streamlined look. The fixture is available in several handsome finishes, including polished chrome, matte black, brass and brushed nickel.
LAB RESULTS: Cinq earned perfect scores with our panel of testers for its superb water pressure, solid construction and quick installation. “The whole hookup process took under 10 minutes,” reported one user. The five-filter design delivered on its health promises. “I deal with dry skin on my scalp and face, and using the filtered showerhead for a few weeks made a huge difference,” said another consumer tester. The sleek design was universally loved. “Most shower filters are big and clunky,” explained our expert. “The Cinq is the perfect size — not too big, not too small — with a nice finish and clean lines that add to its sleek look.”
Feature-Rich Smart Toilet
Duravit SensoWash Classic
The evolution of the humble commode has hit warp speed in recent years with the introduction of high-tech features and cutting-edge designs. German manufacturer Duravit has helped lead the way, partnering with design innovators like Philippe Starck and even coining a new name for the category — the “shower toilet.” The Sensowash Classic, the brand’s flagship model, is a toilet-bidet combination that uses fresh water to deliver the highest possible cleansing performance and adds such luxuries as a heated seat and an automatically opening and closing lid. The seat can be paired with traditional one-piece toilets from Duravit or wall-mounted models that make for a particularly space-efficient design.
LAB RESULTS: The shower toilet impressed our experts with its bevy of smart features, including its built-in odor extractor and intuitive remote control. Awards judge and contractor Marc Savatsky installed the system with a wall-hung toilet from Duravit’s Darling New line. “The sleek design will elevate any bathroom,” he said, adding that the toilet is “incredibly easy to clean” and offers “an abundance of features and functionalities.” Customer support is especially important with newer technologies, and in this respect Savatsky was just as effusive about Duravit, calling the service “easily accessible in case of any issues, ensuring a seamless experience for homeowners seeking assistance.”
Multifaceted Bathroom Faucet
American Standard Aspirations Pull-Down Faucet
Pull-down sprayers have been a common feature of kitchen faucets for more than a decade, but the convenience has only recently found its ways into the bathroom — much to the joy of fastidious types who don’t like the sight of toothpaste, shaving cream, face stubble and other messes left behind by the morning routine. This two-handled version from American Standard features a swivel spout with a 150-degree radius, allowing you to reach every corner of the sink. Choose from matte black, polished chrome and brushed nickel finishes.
LAB RESULTS: The faucet features all the hallmarks of quality construction our engineers look for, including ceramic valves for added durability. Its WaterSense certification means it uses a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute compared with the 2.2 gallons per minute of standard faucets. For real-world assessment, we sent a unit to outside judge and Boston-based contractor Marc Savatsky. He gave it top marks for ease of installation, highlighting the convenience and simplicity of its “speed connect” mechanism, which allows it to snap together for a watertight connection. As for the faucet’s design, Savatasky opined that it “strikes a perfect balance between modern and traditional styles, making it a versatile fit for any bathroom decor.”
Brilliant Bidet Seat
Kohler PureWash E930 Elongated Bidet Toilet Seat
Bidet toilet seats have gone from niche to mainstream in the U.S. market. Most consumers who experience the refreshing (if at first a little tickly!) effectiveness of the built-in bidet say they’ll never go back to toilet paper. That’s certainly the case with the Kohler PureWash, which adds such luxuries as a heated seat, air-drying and adjustable water controls so you can get the temperature, pressure and directional spray just right. There’s even a motion-activated night light to help you find your way in the dark.
LAB RESULTS: Testers found the bidet seat easy to install and smartly designed. “The lid is not too bulky or obstructive,” one noted. “It looks better than similar bidets I’ve seen at other homes.” The bidet’s cleaning performance was what really won our judges over. “I thought I wouldn’t like the heated seat, but it’s a true luxury,” admitted one panelist. Another concluded, “This bidet has made me quite spoiled and has definitely made water my preferred method of cleaning.” About the only upgrade our experts would like to see is the ability to turn off the auto-opening feature via the remote rather than having to download the app to do so.
Durable Interior Paint
Behr Dynasty Paint & Primer Interior Satin Enamel
A bathroom is one of the harshest environments for paint given the frequent exposure to moisture and humidity, which can contribute to mold and mildew. The best bathroom paints are easy to clean and resistant to fading and scuffs. Behr’s paints routinely do well in our tests, and the brand’s Dynasty is up there with the best. Its satin sheen creates a pearl-like finish that resists dirt and grime. The paint is also environmentally friendly, low in VOCs—harsh chemicals that could harm the planet and your family’s health.
LAB RESULTS: In extensive Lab tests, the paint proved exceptionally durable and stain resistant. Our consumer panelists, who used it on a variety of surfaces, were equally impressed, giving it perfect scores for color quality and ease of application. “Easy to apply, with very low odor,” one expert noted. “Did a great job of priming and painting at the same time, saving time and money,” said another. Once dry, the paint was easy to clean with plain soap and water, after which it didn’t lose its sheen; that’s a feature you’ll appreciate in any high-traffic part of the home, not just the bathroom.
Moisture-Safe Flooring
Mohawk SolidTech Premier with New Signature HDX
Our experts don’t recommend natural wood flooring in bathrooms, as moisture can wreak havoc on boards. But there a plethora of synthetic materials are now available that are indistinguishable from real wood and entirely waterproof. Mohawk’s SolidTech Premier with New Signature HDX fits the bill as well as any flooring material we’ve tested. It’s officially a luxury vinyl floor, meaning it consists of a high-definition image of real wood, complete with grain pattern and color variegation, under a clear protective top coat that fends off stains, scratches and water. The 8-inch-wide boards come in 14 color options ranging from rustic browns to contemporary whites.
LAB RESULTS: Let’s start with beauty. “This flooring features realistic wood grain and feels textured, as though it were made of real wood,” says GH’s associate lifestyle editor. It fared well in our Lab tests, showing exceptional stain and water resistance. Then came the home installation, managed by remodeling professional Fernando Pages. The standout feature is the click-and-lock system, which makes installation “a breeze,” he reported. “This user-friendly design ensures a snug fit without much hassle, even for those without extensive experience in flooring projects.”
Convincing Countertop Kit
Daich Coatings Marble Dream Resurfacing Kit
Knowing that many remodelers are on a tight budget, our judges keep an eye out for DIY solutions that offer maximum bang for the buck. This faux-marble resurfacing kit checks that box in a big way. It includes all the tools and materials needed to transform a tired old countertop made of laminate, stone, solid-surface or even plain plywood. The $169 kit covers up to 40 square feet, which is about how much countertop you’ll find in the average American kitchen. Choose from two colors — Cosmos Black and Pristine White — each with marble veining that can be as subtle or distinctive as you like.
LAB RESULTS: Though the resurfacing kit was not as simple to use as advertised (definitely not “as easy as painting”), experienced DIYers should be able to get the desired results, especially if they know their way around an easel and a paintbrush. “More of an art form than I anticipated,” said one tester. But with patience and a deft touch, the kit can yield very convincing stone patterns. “This is a great solution for people who love the look of traditional marble countertops but need a more budget-friendly option that can be completed quickly,” says GH’s home design director, who is partial to the rich veining of Cosmos Black.
Exceptional Surface Material
Our experts first encountered Dekton Ukiyo at KBIS 2023, the premiere trade show for trendspotting. Architects and designers there were also taken with the Japanese-inspired surface, with a unique fluted design crafted from Cosentino’s proprietary ultra-compact stone. Developed by high-end interior designer Claudia Afshar, the material comes in ready-to-install tiles intended for vertical application throughout the home in areas from bathrooms to front hallways. Like all ultracompact surfaces, it’s also rated for exterior use, meaning it can bring unexpected texture and dimension to outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas.
LAB RESULTS: Consentino’s ultra-compact stone surfaces demonstrated exceptional heat and stain-resistance in past tests, and the same was true of the Ukiyo in our evaluation. The fluted edges were a bit prone to chipping, but that’s less of a concern with vertical installations (just avoid very high-traffic areas, our experts advise). As for aesthetics, our design team gushed over the material, available in five natural colors. “Gorgeous, obsessed, love the look and feel of these surfaces soooo much,” raved our associate lifestyle director. “The fluted design is trendy yet versatile. The Umber color is bold but so beautiful. Bathrooms, kitchen, living spaces — these surfaces can truly elevate any space.”
Worry-Free Water Heater
A. O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heater with Scale Prevention
Tankless water heaters are an energy-efficient alternative to conventional tank-type models, saving the average household about $100 per year in energy costs. Plus, they deliver on-demand hot water, so no more standing in a towel on cold winter mornings waiting for the shower to heat up. One drawback of the technology is its ongoing maintenance requirements in areas with hard water. A.O. Smith’s new tankless water heater removes that pain point with its “zero lifetime maintenance” promise, driven by its patented scale-prevention technology, which keeps the system running smoothly without annual descaling by a professional — saving an additional $250 per year on average.
LAB RESULTS: Our engineers commend the unit’s industry-leading UEF (uniform energy factor) of .95, meaning just 5% of energy is wasted during the hot-water delivery process. Our two professional home builders, both of whom installed the unit on 2024 projects, gave it perfect marks. “The one-gallon-per-minute internal recirculating pump ensures fast delivery of hot water to fixtures,” said Boston-based contractor Marc Savatsky. Houston’s Fernando Pages called the scale-prevention technology a true game changer, because “it means no more annual maintenance just to keep the warranty valid.” The Wi-Fi connectivity and the easy-to-use app are added bonuses, allowing for remote monitoring and control of the water heater.
Attainable Rooftop Solar
Sunrun Solar-Plus-Battery Subscription
Though the cost of rooftop solar continues to fall, reduced further by generous tax incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, the typical system is still beyond the reach of many homeowners, averaging around $22,000. That’s why we like so-called solar-as-service models, whereby homeowners lease rooftop panels and all the accessories (mounting rack, inverter, electrical cables, etc.) through a solar company that also handles the installation and maintenance. Sunrun invented the concept in 2007, and it’s still the market leader, having helped nearly 1 million homeowners across 19 states go solar, providing more than $1 billion in energy savings.
LAB RESULTS: Our analysis confirmed that roughly 20% of solar installations in the U.S. are Sunrun systems. From a sustainability standpoint, the 7 billion kilowatt hours of solar energy produced by these systems in one year is the equivalent of taking 4.3 million gasoline-powered vehicles off the roads for a year. Sunrun’s rooftop solar systems have a 90% guaranteed capacity, meaning the panels will still be generating 90% of their power output after 25 years. Our sustainability experts also like the add-on components available through Sunrun, including backup battery storage and a smart electrical panel that gives homeowners even more ways to reduce their energy usage.
High-Efficiency Heat Pump
Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump
Only about 15% of U.S. homes use a heat pump for heating and cooling, but given the many benefits of the technology over conventional systems, we expect the rate of adoption to pick up in a hurry. Friedrich’s Breeze Universal Heat Pump demonstrates the potential of the technology. With its 18.0 SEER2 Rating, it can cut energy bills by up to 50%, depending on what kind of system it’s replacing, and the inverter technology delivers pinpoint temperature control and whisper-quiet operation. The system is versatile too, as it can replace an entire heating and cooling system or be paired with an existing gas furnace for hybrid dual-fuel operation. And many generous rebates apply, including a federal tax credit covering 30% of the cost up to $2,000.
LAB RESULTS: Home builder Fernando Pages tested the system on a home in Houston, where it delivered on Friedrich’s claim of easy installation. “I wish I had known how easy it was before agreeing to my installer’s price!” Pages joked. (All kidding aside, our experts say you should leave this project to the pros.) Pages calls the high SEER rating “a very nice number that promises to lower my bills while increasing comfort.” The unit’s compact housing, especially compared with that of his old condenser, is the cherry on top. “Not sure yet what to do with the touch more area in my side yard, but it pleases me immensely,” he said.
Emissions-Free Robotic Mower
Husqvarna Automower 450XH EPOS bundle With Reference Station
Husqvarna brought the first robotic lawn mower to market back in 1995, and it’s been a category leader ever since. The Automower 450XH EPOS demonstrates that commitment to innovation — for example, by using GPS technology to eliminate the need for perimeter wires. From a sustainability standpoint, we like its unique Rewilding Mode, which automatically leaves 10% of any lawn unmowed, making room for a meadow that can support bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. It’s a small touch, but on top of the emissions-free mowing and quiet operation, it shows how Husqvarna is still paving the way.
LAB RESULTS: Sustainability aside, the Automower 450XH EPOS is a superb feat of engineering. “The coolest lawn mower I’ve ever used,” said veteran lawn care enthusiast Tyler Graham. During months of testing, he noted the intuitiveness of the app and how easy it was to set mowing zones. Built-in sensors did the job of steering the mower around objects in the yard. The Husqvarna cut evenly across most terrain, depositing clippings back onto the lawn, where they could function as a natural fertilizer — another sustainability feature of a product that is filled with them.
All-Weather Heat Pump
Trane XV20i Variable Speed Heat Pump
A big reason why heat pumps aren’t more common yet in the U.S. is that the equipment can struggle in frigid conditions. That’s starting to change with the development of CCHPs, short for cold-climate heat pumps. The XV20i Variable Speed Heat Pump stands at the vanguard. Its variable speed compressor and refrigerant-cooled inverter ensure peak performance and reliability in all regions, while its polycarbonate top and all-aluminum coils fend off corrosion. Trane is focused on developing heat pumps that can operate in any climate. They entered a prototype of the XV20i into the U.S Department of Energy’s Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge, where it successfully heated (and cooled) a home in Boise, Idaho for two years, reducing energy use by 15 to 20 percent.
LAB RESULTS: Our experts oversaw the installation of the Trane heat pump at a home in New York prior to the 2023-2024 winter heating season. The equipment came through without a hitch, delivering constant and consistent heat even when outside temperatures dipped into the single digits. With its industry-leading 20.5 SEER 2 Rating, the heat pump “saved us a couple hundred dollars in heating costs,” the homeowner reported. The Trane Home mobile app added peace of mind and savings throughout the year, she added, “since it meant we could monitor and adjust the heating and cooling system remotely.”
Heat-Reflecting Rooftop
Did you know that roofs can get up to 150°F on a hot summer day? Much of that heat is absorbed by the building, driving up energy costs. Cool roofs are designed to reflect sunlight, reducing rooftop temperatures by as much as 100 degrees. GAFs Timberline HDZ RS brings that energy-saving capability to high-performing architectural roof shingle that can stand up to harsh weather, including gale-force winds and driving rain, throughout the year. The best part is that you aren’t limited to lighter colors as is the case with some roofs. GAF’s specially formulated granules allow for reflective shingles in a range of dark colors including charcoal, hickory and stone gray.
LAB RESULTS: As a longtime GH Seal holder, GAF’s roofing materials are regularly reviewed by our engineers and product experts. We’ve verified that the Timberline HDZ RS line complies with the strictest cool roof requirements set by the California Code of Regulations and the Green Building Standards Code of Los Angeles County. The shingles offer maximum warranty protection, including a wind warranty with no maximum wind speed limitation and 25-year protection against blue-green algae discoloration. Our design experts like the depth and dimension of the thick architectural shingles.
Energy-Saving Shades
Graber Solar Shade with UltraLite Cordless Lift
Window shades don’t just make a home more beautiful and functional; they also have a huge impact on its energy efficiency. During hot summer months, about three-quarters of the sunlight that hits uncovered windows enters the home as heat, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Graber’s Solar Shades are specially designed to reduce solar heat gain, while minimizing glare in the home. For added sustainability points, the shades are made from 100 percent recycled plastic.
LAB RESULTS: While our experts love the energy savings of the solar shades, consumer testers were taken with their quality and performance. “Among the highest-quality shades I’ve ever owned,” one raved, praising the vast selection of colors and opacity ratings as well as the smooth operation of the cordless lift system (which offers added safety for homes with kids or pets, as it eliminates the risk of having anything get tangled in the cord). The shades will also save energy and maintenance time, as in our tests they proved exceptionally easy to clean with either a damp cloth or the brush head on a vacuum.
Recycled Plastic Decking
TimberTech Advanced PVC Decking Vintage Collection
Recycled plastics have never looked this good. TimberTech’s Advanced PVC Decking has been a standout in our decking tests for several years now, boasting exceptional durability and weather resistance without ever needing to be sealed or stained. This year’s awards program was the first time we got up and close with the line’s Vintage Collection, which features six colors that are indistinguishable from premium hardwoods like teak, ipe and mahogany. The fact that it’s made from 60 percent recycled materials, including post-construction scrap like old vinyl siding, is a bonus.
LAB RESULTS: The PVC decking aced our tough Lab performance tests, shrugging off scratches and stains. To see how it performed in the field, remodeling expert Fernando Pages used the material on a 420-square-foot deck on a historic stone house in Boulder, CO. The project called for Mahogany-colored boards in the narrowest 3.5-inch width for a more classic look. “The material cuts similarly to wood, or even a little more easily,” Pages reported. He appreciated the attention to detail, noting, “Even the screw plugs matched well with the mahogany coloring.” Most important, “the deck looks great in the owner’s opinion,” he said.
Health-Conscious Countertops
Neolith Silica-Free Surfaces
Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring component used in many building materials, like bricks and concrete, that can become harmful when inhaled in dust form. Brands recommended by Good Housekeeping that use it provide OSHA guidelines for fabricators and installers to ensure safe handling of the materials. Neolith has gone others one better with its formulation of two engineered stone surfaces that are completely silica free. Inspired by white marble, Abu Dhabi White features golden-gray veining, while Artic White is a true white surface with a cool, contemporary feel.
LAB RESULTS: Our experts reviewed independent testing from Neolith to confirm the silica-free formulation of the product. The removal of silica had little impact on its performance in our Lab tests, with the surfaces holding up well to staining and abrasion. “This low-maintenance material should work extremely well as a countertop or cladding in kitchens and baths, and it’s even suited to outdoor applications,” said our test engineer. We also verified third-party safety and environmental certifications from various organizations, including Greenguard, LEED, NSF, and the International Organization for Standardization.
Nifty Wireless Speaker
For a lot of homeowners, especially those with contemporary tastes, the best technology is the kind you can’t see. Samsung first supplied this with its Frame TV, a flat screen that displays artwork when not in viewing mode. Its Music Frame applies the same concept to audio. It is a wireless speaker that looks like a picture frame, allowing it to blend seamlessly with a home’s decor. The device can be wall-mounted or put on the included stand.
LAB RESULTS: Good Housekeeping’s lead data engineer (an acclaimed New York City DJ by night) tested the Music Frame in the Media & Tech Lab. “Very impressive bass range,” he noted, adding that it sounded “incredibly loud for how small it was.” The sound was particularly crisp and clear at lower volumes such as those likely to be used when watching TV, making the Music Frame an excellent option for home theaters, especially if two speakers are paired for a surround-sound experience. The only quibble our experts had with the Music Frame was that it didn’t display digital art when in the off mode as the Frame TV would, instead holding printed photographs or other images such as traditional picture frames. Maybe Samsung will consider a digital upgrade with the second generation of the Music Frame!
Crystal Clear Projector
XGIMI HORIZON Ultra 4K Projector
Now 6% Off
In the past, TV projectors often produced grainy pictures, making them poor substitutes for a television screen, especially in a home theater setting. But today’s top-performing projectors offer a truly cinematic experience with vivid colors, deep blacks and outstanding detail. In our tests, we’ve found that 4K projectors deliver the sharpest video quality, and this one from XGIMI makes that abundantly clear through its Dolby Vision and hybrid laser and LED technology.
LAB RESULTS: The projector earned rave reviews from our five expert testers, who used it in their homes for three months. “Setup was a breeze, and it was easy to navigate once logged in,” one enthused. “My apartment is flooded with sunlight during the day, and I can still watch movies on this projector clearly,” another added. All testers appreciated the robust three-dimensional surround sound of the twin built-in speakers. The gaming mode delivered responsive video game play with professional-grade low latency. Our experts also liked the projector’s sleek form factor, which makes it a nice addition to any media room.
Top-Rated Roller Shades
Lutron Electronics Serena Roller Shades
There’s no point in dimming the lights in your home theater or media room if sunlight is still streaming into the space. That’s why top-quality window treatments are an essential part of the design. Lutron’s Serena Roller Shades are an exceptionally smart option, with hundreds of curated fabrics to choose from including sheer, translucent and blackout (good for bedrooms and home theaters alike). Also, there are a variety of ways to operate the shades, including with the remote, via the smartphone app or by voice command using Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri. The shades are available in widths ranging from 19 7/8 inches to 96 inches, and they can be as tall as 144 inches.
LAB RESULTS: Our design experts praised the rich array of fabric options, while our consumer testers reported that the ordering process and the installation were smooth and seamless. “So impressed with the quality of the material,” one said, going on to note, “I also love that the battery-operated blinds don’t have any dangling cords, for safety and to give the window treatments a clean, crisp look.” The motor that raises and lowers the shade is one of the quietest our team has ever encountered.
Sensible Smart TV
Hisense U7N 4K UHD Smart TV
Now 23% Off
Even if you have only a modest budget for a home entertainment system, you don’t need to sacrifice picture quality or streaming capabilities with your next TV. Case in point: the Hisense U7N, an LED that sells for well under $1,000 but promises a rich viewing experience thanks to the exceptional picture quality of its ultra-high-definition screen resolution. It runs on the Google TV streaming platform, good for consumers whose homes and lives are already enmeshed in Google’s ecosystem.
LAB RESULTS: Setting up the Hisense was a cinch for our testers, which can’t be said of all TVs we review. “The stand is simple and discreet but sturdy,” one noted. “A very aesthetically pleasing piece,” said another. The TV delivered on its promise of a crisp viewing experience. “I am blown away by the clarity of this TV!” said one tester. There was unanimous appreciation of the Google platform, which reviewers found intuitive and easy to navigate and which offered access to plenty of shows, movies, games and other content. The fact that the TV was Wi-Fi 6 was another bonus. “It’s nice to know I won’t need to buy another TV any time soon to take advantage of faster Internet speeds,” a tester said.
Whisper-Quiet Window AC
Windmill 8,000 BTU Smart Energy Star Window Air Conditioner
Any home theater is bound to get bad reviews if it’s too hot and sticky. The best solution is to install an efficient window air conditioner that can transform a sauna-like room into a cool oasis. The challenge is finding a quiet machine that won’t disrupt the listening and viewing experience. This 8,000-BTU Windmill unit not only operates at a low noise level but also is energy-efficient and maintains pinpoint temperature control.
LAB RESULTS: The Windmill received perfect scores across the board (for temperature control, ease of installation, etc.) from the three expert testers who tested it during several months of sultry summer weather. They also liked its sleek front panel and discrete controls. “It really blends in and doesn’t feel like an eyesore,” one tester said. The Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote operation via a smartphone app. “Intuitive and easy to use,” a reviewer said of the app, adding, “It was nice to be able to turn it on when on my way home so I would arrive to an already cool room.” As for noise output, “At first I was concerned that it wasn’t working based on just how quiet it was,” reported one tester. Now, that’s what we call great performance by a window AC!
Showstopping Smart TV
Samsung OLED 4K S95D Smart TV
If you’re going all in on the media room experience, an OLED TV is the latest and greatest. The technology delivers more accurate colors and higher contrast than conventional LED TVs as well as unlimited viewing angles so there’s not a bad seat in the house. All this and more is on display with the Samsung S95D, whose anti-glare technology (an issue with some early OLEDs) ensures perfect picture quality, day or night. It also comes with Samsung’s One Connect Box, which cuts down on cord clutter by enabling the TV to have only a single cable connection — a nice benefit in any room, but especially in a sleek home theater.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers didn’t mince words over the viewing experience. “Quite simply the best and brightest picture quality I’ve ever seen,” one raved. The built-in speakers at the back delivered impressive sound, though audio buffs might insist on a separate surround-sound system. The smart TV interface was easy to navigate, even for non-techies involved in our evaluation. Gamers on our testing panel liked that the OLED comes with the Samsung Gaming Hub, providing access to more than 3,000 cloud-based titles. The TV is also incredibly thin (under 11 mm), making it a perfect fit for any sleek interior.
Cutting-Edge Air Purifier
Airthings Renew Air Purifier
Job number one for any air purifier is clearing the air you breathe of harmful contaminants and neutralizing foul odors. But if the unit is going to sit in a sleek home theater, you want it to look the part. With its clean-lined Scandinavian design and robust cleaning power, the Renew Air Purifier from Airthings pulls that off with aplomb. In fact, guests might even mistake it for an auxiliary sound system based on its textile front cover — if they notice it all given its quiet operation.
LAB RESULTS: The Renew delivered fast, effective air cleaning in our tests. It performed especially well in mid-size spaces up to 200 square feet — more than enough air-cleaning power for most home theaters as well as many bedrooms, kitchens and family rooms. Our engineers gave it points for its multistage filtration, including a true HEPA filter that removes 99.97% of particulates, according to the brand. “I also like the built-in air sensor that picks up on any changes in air quality and adjusts the fan speed accordingly,” said one tester. The purifier’s silent mode operates at 23 dB, which is even quieter than a whisper, perfect for allowing people to breathe easy on movie night.
Buzz-Worthy Electric Mower
Toro 60V Max 30 in. eTimeMaster Lawn Mower
It wasn’t so long ago that battery-powered mowers were limited to lightweight mowing tasks. But thanks to improvements in lithium-ion battery technology, including faster charging and longer run times, the best electric-powered mowers now rival their gas counterparts. Exhibit A: Toro’s eTimeMaster mower, with a 65-minute run time that can handle two-thirds of an acre on a single charge. Convenience features include LED headlights and a washout port to keep the underside of the deck clean.
LAB RESULTS: The walk-behind lawn mower with a 30-inch deck delivered excellent grass cutting, mulching and side discharging in our extensive field tests. “After reviewing hundreds of battery-powered mowers over the past few years, this Toro is one of the best, if not the best,“ said lawn care professional Tyler Graham. The mower’s solid construction, including an all-steel deck with welded bar rails and beefy aluminum blade spindles, promises years of service, even over rough root-ridden terrain. We also like the Toro’s space-saving design: When you’re done mowing, simply fold down the handle so it’s level with the deck and hang the machine on the wall of your shed or garage.
Powerful Pruner
Milwaukee M12 12V Cordless Brushless Pruner Shears Kit
Pruning is essential to a healthy yard, but if you have a lot of trees and plants to tend to, all that squeezing can lead to serious hand fatigue. Enter the power pruner: This battery-powered tool from Milwaukee makes it easy to prune branch after branch with precision cuts every time; a single charge can deliver up to 1,000 cuts of 1/2-inch branches, the brand says. The power pruner is more expensive than manual shears, but if you have a large property or an expansive garden, our experts say it’s well worth the investment.
LAB RESULTS: The Milwaukee earned flawless scores for pruning performance, comfort and ease of use with the trio of expert testers who put it through its paces. “Really impressed with this tool,” said landscaping professional Tyler Graham, who used it on thick branches that would normally have called for manual loppers and a good deal of physical force. Remodeling expert Fernando Pages praised the durable design; the brushless motor “enhances [the tool’s] efficiency and longevity, providing consistent power without the need for frequent maintenance,” he said, adding, “The ergonomic design minimizes user fatigue, even during extended use, and the compact size allows easy maneuverability in tight spaces.”
Multipurpose Garden Tool
If you have a variety of yard work to deal with but are tight on storage space for all the equipment needed, this combination power tool from Stihl is worth a look. The battery-powered device works with 14 attachments, including a lawn edger, leaf blower, a cultivator and a pole pruner. “Multiuse tools like this one offer great value, since the accessories tend to cost less than full-size equipment,” observed one of our Test Engineers at the Good Housekeeping Institute prior to testing. The Stihl also features a maintenance-free brushless motor.
LAB RESULTS: Our expert tester evaluated the combination tool over the course of four weeks. Setup was simple, with attachments easily mounting to the main power head. An adjustable front handle allows for 360-degree rotation. During testing of the lawn edger attachment, cutting performance and handling proved excellent. The tool’s open-guard design allowed for smooth cuts and reduced clogging, while the control wheel provided accurate handling. “I also like that the tool has a variable-speed trigger and that the equipment can be dismantled into two parts for easy transportation and storage,” our product expert noted.
Handy Construction Jack
Irwin Quick-Lift Construction Jack
Not all power tools run on battery power or gas. This clever construction jack is manually operated but can generate some serious lifting power, up to 300 pounds with a simple squeeze of the trigger. It’s designed for construction sites to lift and support heavy materials, but our experts say it’s also a very useful tool for experienced DIYers who occasionally need assistance lifting or leveling cabinets, windows, doors, large appliances and the like.
LAB RESULTS: Our experts used gym weights to confirm the Quick-Lift’s ability to hoist 300 pounds up to 10 inches, several inches higher than similar devices we’ve evaluated. Outside judges put the lift to work on live job sites during the installation of large kitchen appliances and cumbersome doors. “The trigger drop allows precise lowering of the load by a quarter of an inch at a time, while the release button lets you lower the jack immediately without any hang-ups,” said home builder Fernando Pages. “Having this tool in your arsenal is like having a dependable backup plan ready to go whenever you find yourself in a pinch,” noted contractor Marc Savatsky.
Reliable Robotic Mower
Segway is best known for its two-wheeled personal transporters, but in recent years, the brand has expanded into the robotic mower category, which our experts see as an increasingly viable alternative to traditional walk-behind mowers. One pain point with early robotics was the hassle of installing perimeter wires to keep a mower from leaving the property. The Navimow i Series is totally wire-free, instead using an AI-enhanced vision system to map the yard and avoid objects including small children and pets. It comes in two sizes: the i105 model for mowing up to 1/8 acre and the i110 for mowing up to 1/4 acre.
LAB RESULTS: Three expert testers got hands-on with the mower for several months. Some tech savviness and a few calls to customer support were needed for them to get up and running. But once the Navimow i Series was set up, it performed capably. “I’ve grown quite fond of the mower,” said remodeling expert Fernando Pages. He liked that the robot followed a different pattern each time, to avoid creating ruts in the lawn. There’s also an anti-theft accessory that triggers a loud alarm and cell phone notification if the mower moves beyond a set distance from the property.
Top-Shelf Tool Kit
Milwaukee M18 Cordless Compact Drill/Impact Combo Kit
Power tool combo kits can be a little chintzy — end-cap specials pairing two or more middling tools from the same brand. But Milwaukee doesn’t roll that way. As veteram homebuilder Fernando Pages, put it, “You can tell when you have a Milwaukee tool in your hands by its weight, sturdy feel, ergonomics and power.” That’s true for stand-alone tools and combo kits alike, including this cordless duo, which pairs a powerful hammer drill and an impact driver that together can be used for a wide range of drilling and fastening tasks. The kit includes a pair of 18-volt batteries, a charger and a hard-shell carrying case.
LAB RESULTS: The combination of power and speed propelled both tools to top scores in our performance tests, driving screws and drilling into hardwood. Consumer testers praised the kit’s versatility. “The lightweight design made me comfortable using the drill on basic tasks, but it was powerful enough for my husband’s deck-building project.” said one. Contractor Marc Savatsky, who tested the kit for several months on a job site, lauded its impressive run time. “Whether you are a professional or a weekend warrior, this kit delivers the performance and durability you need to tackle any job with confidence,” he said.
Handy Power Scrubber
Craftsman V20 Cordless 2-in-1 Power Scrubber Kit
Every homeowner has faced the challenge of cleaning hard-to-reach spaces, such as tall ceiling and high windows, inside and outside their home. A battery-powered scrubber makes it easy to clean such areas without being tethered to a power cord. This version from Craftsman can switch from a 60.5-inch telescoping pole to handheld mode for close cleaning. Its five-position pivoting head helps the scrubber get into tricky angled areas, like under roof eaves. It works with a variety of attachments, including a hard-bristled brush for concrete and masonry and a soft-bristled brush for more delicate surfaces like glass and porcelain.
LAB RESULTS: The scrubber proved easy to assemble during initial Lab evaluation. Our engineers verified the device’s IPX7 waterproof rating by fully submerging it in water with no adverse effects on the tool or battery. Consumer testers used the scrubber on variety of surfaces in and around their homes. “The scrubber saved me a lot of time and energy, especially when cleaning hard-to-reach or awkward spaces,” one reported. The 2Ah lithium-ion battery delivered up to two hours of run time on a single charge.
Rip-Resistant Cleaning Cloths
Venom Steel Workshop Wipes With Scrubbing Beads
Even minor remodeling projects often lead to major messes. Instead of blowing through roll after roll of paper towels, our experts recommend reaching for these heavy-duty cleaning wipes from Venom Steel. The oversize 8-by-10-inch wipes feature scrubbing beads on one side — good for cutting through grease, paint and other tough spills and stains. The flip side is smooth so as to shine up cleaned surfaces. Packaged in a flexible flat pack of 60 with a pop-top lid, these cleaning wipes are a great addition to any toolbox or to take on the go to deal with messes.
LAB RESULTS: The wipes earned rave reviews across the board with all five testers, who put them through a battery of tests from cleaning a greasy grill to taking the rust off a vintage enamel table. The beaded surface lived up to its claims without causing any irritation. “The wipes didn’t dry out my skin like other cleaners do,” one consumer tester told us. The dispenser was easy to use and efficient. “I like the fact that only one cleaner comes out at a time instead of the two or three I’m used to with this type of packaging,” a tester noted.
Cutting-Edge Track Saw
Ridgid 18V Brushless Cordless 6-1/2-in. Track Saw (Tool Only)
If your DIY projects call for a lot of long, precise cuts — for example, ripping large sheets of plywood or MDF — adding a track saw like this battery-powered version from Ridgid to your arsenal of power tools makes sense. Think of it as a circular saw that runs along a track or guardrail to make straight precision cuts. For many DIYers, it’s an invaluable tool for a wide range of tasks including cutting large panels and trimming doors. Key features on the Ridgid include a durable brushless motor, a built-in retractable riving knife and a long-lasting 18-volt battery.
LAB RESULTS: The tool earned perfect scores for performance and overall satisfaction from our testers, who included pros and DIYers. “This tool is a valuable addition for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient cutting solution outside a traditional workshop setting,“ said contractor Marc Savatsky, adding that he “was particularly impressed by the tool’s portability, as it allowed me to make controlled and precise cuts on the go.” A consumer tester from our panel said the track saw was “much easier to use and more agile than the table saw I’m accustomed to.”
Precision Pizza Oven
Fontana Napoli Margherita Hybrid Gas & Wood Oven
The TikTok-fueled obsession with homemade pizza mixed with the continued trend toward outdoor living has given rise to a new luxury must-have in open-air meal prep — the backyard pizza oven. When the equipment is as formidable as the Fontana Napoli, home chefs are turning out even more than restaurant-worthy pies: The Italian-made hybrid oven uses gas or wood to reach temperatures between 750°F and 900°F, good for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, baked breads and much more.
LAB RESULTS: Though setting up the 264-pound Fontana was a challenge for our expert testers, requiring at least three people to safely lift it from the box, they all gave the oven 5-star reviews for performance once it was fired up. That included the chief food director at Good Housekeeping, who said it was “truly superior” to all other ovens she’d used (“And I’ve tried many,” she added). Homebuilder Fernando Pages praised the exquisite craftmanship, comparing the Napoli to “the finest European sports cars for quality.” He mentioned the “meticulously designed details like breather holes cleverly concealed by pockets, allowing moisture to evaporate without letting rain in.” Pages used the oven for empanadas, a specialty from his native Argentina. GH’s chief food director made steak and shrimp seared to perfection in a cast-iron skillet, and also cranked out a couple of dozen perfect pizzas for a kid’s birthday party.
DIY-Friendly Decking
Building a deck is often billed as DIY-friendly, but it’s a lot harder than it looks. Just getting the boards to line up straight can cause fits for first-timers. MoistureShield’s Instadeck makes the process practically foolproof with an ingenious system of plastic tiles that snap together to create the foundation for a freestanding ground-level deck on any flat surface, including concrete, an existing patio or even grass. The deck boards slide into the tiles via a tongue-and-groove design that ensures perfect lines. Instadeck is compatible with most of MoistureShield’s lines of capped composite decking lines, so you’ll have plenty of colors to choose from across various price points.
LAB RESULTS: We tested a section of the InstaDeck system in our Lab and were quickly convinced of its simplicity. “Very few tools required, and the boards fit like a glove with the plastic tiles,” said our Test Engineer. MoistureShield’s decking, meanwhile, stood out in our tests for its exceptional durability, and its 50-year warranty shows the brand’s willingness to stand behind its performance. Our design experts approve too. “The tone of the boards is visually appealing, and the prominent texture adds even more interest to a porch or deck,” said GH’s home design director.
Portable Container Garden
Permasteel Elevated Garden Bed
A container garden provides a convenient way to grow flowers, fruits and vegetables, especially if you have a smaller yard. It also gives you the ability to move plants around as the seasons change. You can fill containers with a single plant species, like rosemary, or a mix of plants. This product from Permasteel takes container gardening to the next level. It features an ergonomic design, caster wheels for mobility and a built-in water level indicator for precise hydration.
LAB RESULTS: Testers loved the Permasteel’s 3-foot height (“No kneeling or bending required, and it also helps keeps the critters away,” one enthused) as well as how easy the wheeled container was to transport around the yard. As for its plant-growing capabilities, “The bottom-up watering method drastically reduces evaporation and fungus,” said lawn care expert Tyler Graham, who tested the system over several months of the growing season. He added that all the fittings and connections felt tight and secure. The powder-coated galvanized steel proved durable and rust-resistant throughout prolonged exposure to the elements, so it should hold up well over time, though our experts recommend storing it for the winter in harsh climates.
Super-Cool Misting Fan
Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist Attachment
In the past few years our experts have seen more misting fans come into the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab for testing — a result of the long summer heat waves that have been blanketing many parts of the country. This model from Shark is one of the most innovative, with its ability to transform from a tabletop fan to a pedestal fan as well as the fact that it can be either battery-powered or plugged into the wall.
LAB RESULTS: Lab tests confirmed that the fan was easy to set up and had a 24-hour run time. The six consumer testers who used it at home through successive summer heat waves gave it top scores for effectiveness and ease of operation. “Very sleek, very versatile,” said one. “The misting attachment is an effective and easy-to-use accessory that expands the utility of the fan,” said another product expert, adding that the fan easily connects to a garden hose to provide water for the misting feature. Other notable features were the remote control that magnetically attaches to the back of the fan, the five-speed operation and the side-to-side oscillation, ensuring that multiple people could experience the fan’s cool, misty breeze.
Exceptional WiFi Extender
Netgear Orbi 770 Series Tri-Band WiFi 7 Mesh 3-Pack
As homes take on more connected devices, including smart TVs streaming 4K and 8K content and video game consoles with big bandwidth demands, a basic Wi-Fi router from the cable company doesn’t always cut it. Upgrading to a mesh system is the best way to blanket an entire home in fast, buffer-free Wi-Fi, especially if you choose one as reliable and robust as Netgear’s Orbi 770 Series Tri-Band Mesh System. The well-priced package includes four interconnected antennas with the capacity to support up to 100 devices, which should be more than enough for even sprawling households (up to 8,000 square feet, according to the brand) with busy connected lives.
LAB RESULTS: Our Internet experts are consistently impressed by Netgear (the Orbi 970 has been our top pick for running 4K videos on multiple devices at the same time). The 770 costs hundreds less but is every bit as fast as its predecessor, with a more streamlined design. With speeds up to 11Gbps and multiple wireless bands, “I could actually feel my Internet working faster when playing video games or streaming movies,” our expert tester reported. We also like that the Orbi 770 offers automatic firmware updates and allows for separate guest Wi-Fi networks for added security.
Disaster-Averting Leak Detector
First Alert L1 Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector
Water damage is one of the most common reasons for property insurance claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute, and cleanup can be costly ($5,000 on average for a single leak!). That’s why we love First Alert’s smart detector, a device that can identify a water leak or a frozen pipe before the problem becomes catastrophic. The battery-powered detector connects directly to your home’s Wi-Fi network. Place several of the sensors in areas of your home that are prone to leaks, such as in basements and near sump pumps, water heaters and washing machines.
LAB RESULTS: During extensive Lab tests, the First Alert proved easy to set up and pair with the First Alert smartphone app, which you can also use to control other Honeywell Home Wi-Fi–enabled devices. In a mock leak test, the alarm went off as soon as water touched the device or temperatures in our test chamber dipped below freezing. Consumer testers who evaluated the leak detector over several months in their homes found it equally responsive and user-friendly. “I like that the app shows the current temperature and humidity in my home as well as the battery life,” one noted, praising the peace of mind having this detailed information brought him when he was away from home.
Dynamic Doorbell Camera
Ecobee Smart Video Doorbell Camera
Looking for a way to keep an eye on the comings and goings of visitors and the arrival of deliveries? Our experts recommend getting a doorbell camera, which can also help ward off package thieves and burglars. The smart device will send you an alert when someone arrives at your front door. It can also record photos and videos you can access through an app. This model from Ecobee is hardwired, so you won’t have to replace or recharge batteries for it. It offers a wide 175-degree vertical field of view, allowing you to clearly see packages pushed up against the door.
LAB RESULTS: We like that this doorbell camera is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit, allowing you to set it up so your smart speaker or phone will announce when someone is at the door with a chime. You can also communicate with whoever is at the door through the device’s two-way audio (including through the app on your phone if someone comes when you’re away from home). Professional builder and smart home expert Marc Savatsky said he found the Ecobee app “highly intuitive” to use while a consumer tester praised the camera’s “expansive viewing angle” and “excellent video quality.”
Whole-House Backup Battery
Anker Solid F3800 Portable Power Station
The best protection again home power outages used to be a gas backup generator. These get the job done, but they have their shortcomings, starting with the fact that portable versions need a ready supply of fuel and need to be operated outdoors to protect against dangerous carbon monoxide fumes. That’s what makes a whole-house battery backup system, like this one from Anker, such a game changer. The portable power station boasts a 3.84 kWh battery capacity, enough to power several major appliances, systems and electronics, and more batteries can be added to take its capacity up to 53.76kWh for true whole-house backup power — all emissions-free and with very little noise.
LAB RESULTS: Developer and home builder Fernando Pages installed the system at his home in Houston, where weather-induced outages are all too common. He paired it with Anker’s Home Power Panel, which allowed him to program specific circuits to power on automatically in the event of an outage. The project took him and an electrician a full day, but he said the system “worked beautifully” once it was up and running. “The interruption was so short that not even the TV went off in the process,” he said. “The AC was running, and the refrigerators were humming.”
High-Security Smart Lock
When it comes to smart home technology, a smart lock for the front door, like this innovative version from Adobe, might be the biggest no-brainer. For starters, it eliminates the need for keys — nice if you’re prone to losing your set. It also lets you grant temporary access to your home to approved users like the dog walker or a contractor. Also, this keyhole-free device is impossible to pick, making it one of the more secure smart locks on the market.
LAB RESULTS: Our experts like that Adobe’s smart lock features a rechargeable battery that lasts up to a year on a single charge, addressing a common pain point for smart lock users. The Bluetooth keypad with a fingerprint reader adds a layer of convenience and security, offering multiple ways to open the lock effortlessly. Additionally, the geolocation feature enhances usability by enabling automatic locking and unlocking based on the user’s proximity. “I would highly recommend this smart lock to friends and family due to its user-friendly interface and practicality for daily use,” said Boston-based developer Marc Savatsky. “Overall, it stands out as one of the most convenient and valuable pieces of home technology, especially given how frequently you interact with it at the front door.”
Industrial-Strength Air Cleaner
BlueDri Negative Machine Airbourne HEPA Scrubber
If you’ve ever tackled a home remodel or even just walked through one, you know how much dust gets kicked up during the project. Then there’s the chemical off-gassing from building products like solvents and adhesives. The BluDri AirShield 550 1/3 is a heavy-duty air purifier designed with that harsh environment in mind. It’s equipped with a powerful motor and an advanced 3-stage filtration system, all contained in durable plastic housing that can easily withstand errant blows from dropped hammers or steel-toed boots.
LAB RESULTS: First, our judges gave the BlueDri big points for innovation. As homebuilder Fernando Pages put it, “I’ve never owned or seen a jobsite air purifier, which makes this one of those ‘Why didn’t I think of that?’ products.” In Lab tests, our experts liked the true HEPA filtration, which removes 99.97% of particles equal to 0.3 micrometers. The pre-filter catches larger particulates, and the carbon filter helps neutralize odors. The air purifier also has a lot of handy features, like sm on-board GFCI outlet that lets you daisy-chain up to three units together — or charge your phone if you are short on wall outlets. An LED filter indicator light tells you when it’s time to change the filter.
Standout Window AC
TCL Q-Series Smart Inverter Air Conditioner
Now 11% Off
Though window air conditioners relay on fairly basic engineering, our experts have seen some key innovations in recent years. One is inverter technology, which this 8,000-BTU unit from TCL boasts. The inverter replacers the conventional compressor on standard window ACs, and it allows for more precise temperature control, improved energy efficiency and quieter operation. The TCL is also easy to maintain, thanks to its washable air filter, and the Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote operation via an app.
LAB RESULTS: Lab tests confirmed the unit’s superb temperature control and quiet operation, and its Energy Star label attests to its low energy consumption. In-home consumer testing revealed that the AC was extremely easy to install, a result of its lightweight design and preassembled frame. “Super quick and easy,” said one reviewer, adding that the AC was “extremely quiet compared with any other window air conditioner” they had ever had. The TCL app was easy to set up, and it’s compatible with most smart home ecosystems, including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Home, so you can also control the AC by voice command with a smart speaker from any of those brands.
Superb Air Purifier
GermGuardian Airsafe Intelligent Air Purifier
The quality of indoor air is at least five times as bad as that of the air outside, and it can be as much as 100 times as bad, according to studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The good news is an air purifier can dramatically improve your home’s indoor air. A number of newer models, including this GermGuardian, are equipped with multilevel filtration systems that capture not only contaminants but also cooking fumes, dust mites and pollen, among other particles.
LAB RESULTS: GermGuardian has a reputation with our experts for producing excellent air purifiers at competitive prices, and the Airsafe+ Deluxe is the latest example. We put the machine through a battery of at-home tests in the New York City area during several air-quality alerts and it earned mostly five-star reviews for effectiveness at reducing contaminants and odors. Consumer testers described the product as easy to use, discreet and slim — nice if you have a small living space. “I also love that its built-in sensor monitors particulate matter in the air and adjusts the fan strength accordingly,” one expert tester said. “My neighbors smoke, and the smoke often comes into my apartment. The Germ Guardian did a good job of removing that odor.”
Ultimate Thermostat
Honeywell Home T9 WiFi Thermostat and Sensor
For all the benefits of smart thermostats — energy savings, increased comfort, the ability to adjust the temperature when you’re away from home — less than 20% of U.S. homes have one. If you’re ready to make the upgrade, you can do no better than the Honeywell Home T9. The sleek, well-designed device includes additional room sensors for more precise temperature control throughout the house. It also boasts many other innovations our experts like, including geofencing, which you can use to set the heat or central AC to automatically kick in when you’re a certain distance from home.
LAB RESULTS: Though smart thermostat installation is often marketed as easy, our experts recommend hiring a pro, especially if you live in an older home. That’s what we found was best with the T9; even professional builder Fernando Pages brought in an electrician for the job. (“That’s a darned good thermostat,” the tradesperson remarked. “I wish I had one at my house.”). Once it was installed, all testers found the thermostat easy to program both through the app and manually with the device’s interface. Consumer testers liked that the app provided monthly energy reports, allowing them to track their heating and cooling trends and compare their energy usage to that of similar homes in their areas.
First-Rate Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan is the energy-efficient way to cool any room. The best versions also illuminate a space with an integrated light fixture and add visual interest to a room with a unique design. Dreo’s new ceiling fan checks all those boxes, then goes one step further with its Wi-Fi capability, enabling users to operate it by voice control or via a smartphone app. Intended for large areas up to 400 square feet, the fan is so smart that it can even adjust its speed based on the room’s temperature. Its airflow power of 6,040 cubic feet per minute (CFM) puts it up there with the mightiest ceiling fans on the market.
LAB RESULTS: All three testers who installed the fan at their homes said they would buy it again and recommend it to friends thanks to its sleek look and superb cooling performance. “The 52-inch scalloped blades move quite a lot of air,” said one Institute expert, adding that the fan was “extremely quiet when running.” The voice control and “very intuitive” app were welcome smart features. And everyone raved about the styling of the fan. “It looks like an art piece, but with a ton of functions that far exceed those of ceiling fans I’ve owned in the past,” one said. Another agreed, saying, “This is definitely a statement fan.”
Powerful Tower Fan
Lasko Pinnacle 40” Tower Fan
Floor fans are the latest product category to gain smart technology, joining lights, thermostats and other products that can learn your preferences and adjust themselves accordingly. The Lasko Denali DC Motor Tower Fan uses AI enhancements to adapt to a room’s specific cooling needs over time. With its powerful 1,700-CFM airflow, the 42-inch-tall fan is designed for medium-size rooms — say, up to 300-square feet — in which it can recirculate the air more than 20 times per hour.
LAB RESULTS: The fan impressed our four expert testers with its smart cooling power, earning high ratings for effectiveness across the board. “Love this fan!” said one. “Its small footprint and elegant black styling make it suitable for almost every room.” Testers also appreciated the wide range of cooling options, including those with advanced intelligence such as natural mode. “It replicates natural wind, varying speed at random intervals, which is a very cool option,” one explained. And even with all the Lasko’s cooling power, every tester also remarked on its quiet operation, as soft as 28 decibels on the lowest fan speed, which still managed to circulate air throughout our test spaces.
Hard-Working Humidifier
Pure Guardian Pure Guardian 1 Gallon Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
Dry winter air not only leads to a host of ailments, like itchy skin and irritated eyes, but also can wreak havoc on your home — for example, by causing wood floors to warp and crack and damaging artwork. That’s why our experts recommend having a capable humidifier on hand (or multiple units, depending on the size of your home and the severity of the dry air). GermGuardian’s cool mist humidifier uses ultrasonic technology, and we like it for its effective moisturizing power and quiet operation. Our health experts add that cool-mist units also are better than warm-mist humidifiers at relieving colds and coughs.
LAB RESULTS: Our experts like the Pure Guardian’s ample 1-gallon container and 70-hour run time. “That’s helpful during home remodels, since the moisture will create ideal air-quality conditions for wood, paint and other materials as they settle,” said a test engineer in the Home Improvement Lab. Consumer testers gave the GermGuardian top marks for performance and convenience, describing it as “completely silent” and “much better at humidifying than any unit we’ve used before.” A tester with young children at home reported, “The humidifier helped my daughter sleep better when she had a cough.”
Multifunctional Space Heater
Dreo Solaris Indoor Space Heater
Space heaters are about as utilitarian as it gets, and most look the part — black boxes in corners that crank out heat when you need it. There’s nothing wrong with that, but what if space heaters added a bit of design flair to interiors? The Dreo Solaris 718 does just that. The eight-setting oscillating heater has a tapered house and a sleek metallic finish that fits smartly into any room, along with a variety of safety and convenience features, like tip-over protection, a fireproof plug and a whisper-quiet 25-decibel setting — nice when the unit is deployed in a TV room or a home office.
LAB RESULTS: Let’s start with the aesthetics. “The metallic finish gives it a classic touch, while the shape feels modern,” noted one tester. “A great investment for anyone looking for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing heating solution,” offered another. Performance tests in our Lab confirmed that the Solaris delivers exceptional heat output up to 95°F in rooms of up to 300 square feet. The housing stays cool to the touch, important for households with kids and pets. A bonus: The heater can switch into cooling mode, with temperatures as low as 41°F, so it’s suitable for year-round use.
Distinguished Drapery
Sunbrella Stocked Drapery
Drapes enhance the comfort and beauty of any interior, adding color and texture while absorbing noise and controlling the flow of natural light into the space. Sunbrella’s Window Collection streamlines the installation process with ready-to-ship, ready-to-hang drapes for residential interiors. The curated selection comes in multiple lengths (84, 96, 108 and 120 inches) and 27 colors across five distinct patterns, so you’re guaranteed to find a size and style that suits your space. The three-in-one construction of most options means the drapes can be hung using a rod pocket, a back tab or clip rings; some also feature a grommet.
LAB RESULTS: Sunbrella first earned a solid reputation with our experts for its durable, fade-resistant exterior fabrics. That quality is evident in its interior drapes. “All the swatches were high-quality, but the basket-weave options were especially beautiful,” said our home & apparel reviews analyst. Consumer testers were equally happy with the finished product. “Super elegant and sophisticated,” said one, who opted for blackout drapes for the oversize bedroom windows in her high-rise apartment. “I love the color of the fabric and the thick, high-quality material. The blackout lining does a very effective job of blocking out sunlight,” she said.
Handy Home Service App
If you’re lucky, there’s a plumber in your life whom you can call when the toilet won’t stop running or an electrician cousin who can help you deal with flickering lights. Don’t have anyone like that? The Frontdoor app gives the same professional advice across every category — plumbing, electric, appliances, HVAC and so on. Through its smartphone app, you can connect in real time with home service pros, who use video, augmented-reality tools and other advanced technology to help diagnose the problem and, if possible, talk you through the repair.
LAB RESULTS: The $25 annual membership offers unlimited access to skilled professionals in the Frontdoor network. Six expert testers used the app for a variety of repairs, including a malfunctioning faucet side spray and a broken ice maker. “Really quite innovative,” said one tester, adding that she appreciated the “immediacy of getting advice on home repair projects, at the moment I decided to tackle them.” Most of the Frontdoor experts, who average 20 years of experience in their respective fields, were knowledgeable and polite. Testers also liked the library of how-to tips available through the app, as well as the discounts on products and services.
Inspired Design Help
The Design Desk at Crate & Barrel
It’s always best to work with a professional designer on an interior design project — assuming there’s room in the budget. That’s what we love about this new service from Crate & Barrel: It’s completely free. It’s also convenient given that the store offers three consulting options: you can meet with a designer in-store, arrange for a designer to come to your home to view the space in person and take measurements or do a video call with a designer and give them a virtual tour of your home. The appointment includes one-on-one time with a designer, customized mood boards and floor plans and 3D previews of your new space.
LAB RESULTS: “The 3D design helped us really picture what the furniture would look like in our bedroom and made us totally rethink where everything should go,” said one tester who went through the process on a room-makeover project. “I love that they gave us plenty of ideas for both furniture and accents like vases, lamps, mirrors, etc., but there was little to no pressure to actually buy any of it.” The tester also reported that the Crate & Barrel designer asked smart questions about their budget and style preferences and did a good job of working within their specific parameters.
Ever-Innovative Roofing Company
Gunner Online Roofing Service
The digitization of home services is making it easier than ever to connect with qualified professionals for all kinds of home repairs. Companies like Gunner Roofing are leading the way by leveraging the latest technology, from virtual reality to satellite imaging, to simplify and streamline how today’s homeowners go about getting a new roof over their heads. Thanks to enhancements to its digital platform in the last year, customers now receive a detailed estimate within one hour along with the guarantee that the work will be done by certified installers using only industry-best materials.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers found Gunner’s platform to be incredibly fast and intuitive, including the VR-generated project mockup, a detailed cost estimate and a realistic timeline for completion. We like that in the past 12 months, the service has become available throughout the lower 48 states. “We have project managers all over the country who make sure the quality of work is up to our standard,” explained Eddie Prchal, who founded the company with his brother Andrew in 2017. That’s digitalization with the all-important human touch, which our experts say delivers the best all-around consumer experience.
Custom Rugs Made Easy
Finding that one-of-a-kind area rug for your home used to mean countless showroom visits or taking a chance on a postage-size image you’d found on some designer’s website. Ernesta solves the design dilemma with its curated collection of quality custom rugs (no more shoehorning standard sizes into your space), and its dedicated support team provides one-on-one support throughout the decision process. Whether you want a flat weave for high traffic areas or a higher-pile rug, selecting samples to see and feel before buying is easy, and rugs can be made to your preferred dimensions and delivered to your home two to four weeks after you order.
LAB RESULTS: Our expert tester gave top marks to the Ernesta process: “Working with images of my home, their consultant helped me find a design that I love, then sized it perfectly to my space.” The company’s website shows multiple on-location shots for each pattern and provides details of each rug including its material, construction technique and pile height. It also provides care instructions as well as tips for selecting the ideal material. “I love the natural-fiber woven and braided rugs,” said GH’s associate lifestyle editor. “They’re perfect for giving any space a nature-inspired feel, not to mention infusing organic texture into the room.”
Scene-Setting Glass Walls
Simonton MaxView Multi-Slide Vinyl Patio Door
Multi-slide doors are another way to achieve the “moving glass wall” effect in your home, creating a transitional space between inside and outdoors. Simonton’s vinyl-framed option comes in a variety of standard sizes, which helps keeps the cost down, with starting prices at $5,000 (custom sizing is also available, up to 10 feet high and 30 feet wide). Choose from one-, two-, three-, four- and six-panel options in various configurations, including pocket panels that slide into a wall recess for maximum opening and bypass panels that can slide from one side to the other, stacking when fully opened. Colors can be mixed and matched too — white, almond and clay for the interior and exterior, as well as exterior-only options of bronze and black.
LAB RESULTS: Simonton is a GH Seal holder, so our engineers can attest to the construction quality of its vinyl windows and doors. We also verified third-party performance tests of the multi-slide door, including Missile D-level impact resistance and High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) certifications. Glazing options include packages with insulated glass and low-E coatings, making the door Energy Star–qualified. We like that the brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze and brass finishes all feature advanced physical vapor deposition (PVD) treatments, which our tests have found offer optimal corrosion and scratch resistance.
Mood-Enhancing Window Shades
Hunter Douglas Aura Illuminated Shades
One of the wellness trends our experts have been tracking closely in recent years is so-called “circadian lighting,” whereby artificial lighting is used to mimic natural sunlight , promoting sleep, productivity and more. Hunter Douglas brings the concept to window treatments with its Aura Illuminated Shades. The innovative three-in-one system features a traditional room-facing shade, a room-darkening liner and programmable LED strip lights that provide varying degrees of ambient illumination throughout the day and night. Choose from three styles for the front panel: Vignette Modern Roman Shades, Designer Roller Shades and Sonnette Cellular Roller Shades.
LAB RESULTS: Hunter Douglas is a leading window treatment brand with our judges appreciating its quality products and top-shelf customer service. “The company has a strong network of professional installers, which adds to the overall positive experience,” said professional builder Marc Savatsky, who has worked with the company for many years. While the integrated LED sets the system apart, the foundational shade is both stylish and functional, and we like the intuitiveness of the smartphone app that’s used to program light levels and shade positions.
Awe-Inspiring Awning Window
Western Windows Pass-Through Awning Window
Awning windows usually have a supporting role in a home’s window plan; they are often installed in a bathroom or basement or above a fixed picture window to help bring in fresh air. But with the launch of Miter’s new pass-through awning windows, they’re suddenly the star of the show. The windows are designed for kitchens with an adjacent outdoor living area, making it easy to pass drinks, dishes and the like between the two spaces while enhancing the visual connection to the outdoors from inside. For homeowners whose budget doesn’t allow for a moving glass wall, this new awning window is the next best thing.
LAB RESULTS: The engineering behind the pass-through window is as innovative as the concept itself, our experts found. A continuous hinge and pressurized gas struts allow the window to be opened to a full 90 degrees with a gentle push. Our engineers reviewed independent durability tests in which the window opened and closed without incident through 7,000 cycles and was left in an open position for 14 days without any sign of sagging. We also like the window’s ample dimensions (it comes in widths from 24 inches to 96 inches and heights from 36 inches to 60 inches), since that means it can be designed to be high enough in the open position to keep people outside from accidentally walking into it.
Fabulous Folding Doors
Marvin – Elevate Bi-Fold Door
Bifold patio doors are another way to blend your home’s indoor and outdoor environments. These movable glass wall systems open like an accordion, flooding interiors with fresh air and natural light. When open, they offer an unobstructed view of the outdoors — a nice feature if your patio overlooks the water or other scenery. Once a niche trend, bifolding patio doors are now offered by most major brands. Made of strong fiberglass, Marvin’s Elevate Bi-Fold Door resists fading, dents and cracks. The pine interior can be painted in the company’s factory or stained in your home to match your interiors.
LAB RESULTS: Marvin is a legacy window and door brand, headquartered in Minnesota since it first opened shop in 1912. Our engineers found the fiberglass exterior extremely weather-resistant and easy to maintain, a finding supported by independent certification from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). We also like that the unit features dual-pane glass with Low E coatings and argon insulating gas for optimal energy efficiency. The door comes in 28 configurations and with up to seven panels, making it capable of fitting openings up to 22 feet wide. The exterior comes in a variety of finishes, such as ebony, bronze, cashmere, stone white and more.
Perfect Patio Door
Window World Premium Sliding Glass Patio Door
The multi-panel movement we’re celebrating twice over with this year’s awards wouldn’t exist without the traditional patio door, which given its value and functionality is still the best choice for most homeowners who are looking to open their homes to the outdoors. Window World’s Premium Sliding Glass Patio Door is available in two-, three-, and four-panel configurations, with optional sidelites, transoms and grids to complement a variety of architectural styles, from French to contemporary to classic. Color options abound too, including 11 interior hues and another 19 for the exterior.
LAB RESULTS: Window World is a longtime GH Seal partner, and its products have been thoroughly vetted for performance and efficiency by our engineers. Its American-made Premium Sliding Glass Patio Door lives up to the same high standard, meeting tough industry standards that are designed to ensure durability, safety, efficiency and overall quality. We also like that the company is a full-service exterior remodeler, so you’ll receive exceptional support every step of the way, from design consultation to installation to ongoing service via the patio door’s limited life warranty.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
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