Whether we're replacing a light switch or building a poolside deck, all of us could use a little home improvement or repair advice every now and then. It would certainly be handy if that advice were as near as our computer screens. And wouldn't it be great if, while we were reading these invaluable tips, we could order a few products to help us to complete these projects -- all without leaving the comfort of our homes?

The creators of Home Ideas had those needs in mind when they designed their handy and user-friendly Web site for the home enthusiast, no matter what your skill level.

Along the left-hand side of Home Ideas' home page (no pun intended), you'll find several categories, represented by various areas of the house ("Yard and Garden"; "Kitchen"), items and materials within your house ("Floors"; "Heating and Cooling"; "Lighting and Electricity"), or by various home-related projects ("Home Décor"; "Outdoor Building"; "Home Repair"). Clicking on the "Appliances" link, I expected to find recommendations for particular products, or perhaps product surveys and ratings. Instead, however, I found an online form requesting personal information so that I could be sent brochures for the appliance categories I selected. Unfortunately, my choices were limited to rather offbeat appliances. Instead of information about washers, dryers, and refrigerators, you may request information about solar hot water heaters (which certainly have their merit), dumbwaiters, and hydromassagers. Nice, but not critical on any home owner's list.

If at first you don't succeed, well, you know. So I tried again -- this time with the "Kitchen" category. My selections were a bit more mainstream this time (butcher block products, cabinetry, a countertop repair kit, faucets), but again, I was asked to wait for information in the mail. The intended beauty of the Internet is, of course, our ability to download information immediately. Sure, we're fostering a generation of impatient computer-users, but it's too late to change that. I'm rather spoiled by what other sites are able to deliver to me immediately. I want this information now, not via snail mail. And I couldn't help wondering just how the information was selected -- if the manufacturers of these products were paid advertisers, and if I was going to receive a truly representative list of manufacturers with competitive prices.

This isn't to say that you won't find helpful information on the Home Ideas site .. but you may want to select another link on the site instead of the aforementioned one. A better choice is the "How To Series" link, a comprehensive guide to an extensive array of home repairs and home improvement projects, complete with illustrations to help you get the picture. The link includes such categories as "How to Plan and Build a Deck," "How to Plan and Design a Kitchen," "How to Make Painting Easier," "How to Repair and Install Electrical Switches," "How to Correct Common Paint Problems," "How to Maintain a Lawn," "How to Hang Wallpaper," and "Installing Ceiling Fans," among many other options.

Looking for the advice of someone who's been there and done that? Head to the "Home Talk" link, a home enthusiast's forum where every home-related topic is worthy of discussion and no question is too basic.

An Applet List link allows users to enter data about their home projects, then receive estimates for how much material they need to purchase. There's nothing worse than finding yourself with several extra rolls of wallpaper after your project is completed. These handy calculators will help you determine a general range of your supply needs -- and your budgetary needs, as well. You'll find a paint estimator, a cost of carpeting calculator, a tile estimator, insulation estimator, a square foot estimator for windows and doors, even a calculator for comparing furnace efficiencies.

A Today's Homeowner library includes archives of the online magazine's articles and is well worth a look if you're seeking additional information. Reader's Digest also has a role in this site. Its Do-It-Yourself Online Store offers a selection of books and CD-ROMs for every skill level. And a "Links" link will lead you to a myriad of other online sources for more home improvement/repair advice.

Whether you're merely touching up your longtime residence or getting home ready for a sale, home improvements and repairs are often a wise investment -- provided they're approached correctly. With its reliable and brand-name sponsors and contributors, Home Ideas has constructed a trustworthy and valuable resource for every home owner.

Published: September 29, 1998

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Courtney Ronan only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.