As fuel prices fluctuate and consumers struggle to cope with the rising costs of operating their homes, green-minded homeowners are turning to the sky for solutions.

Today's kitchens have evolved from a room where we simply prepared and ate our meals, to a place where we hold family discussions, socialize and entertain guests, work, study and even play with the kids. Here are some do-it-yourself projects to upgrade this important room for $200 or less.

Virtually every home remodeling project begins with demolition. Homeowners who do their own demo can save big bucks, especially on projects where professionals will finish the construction part of the job. Before you tear up a floor, open a wall or demolish a countertop, keep these basic do-it-yourself demolition tips in mind.

As cooler weather approaches, home owners spend as much time outdoors as possible. Making outdoor spaces more livable not only increases the value of a home, but can make a house feel larger and allow its occupants to enjoy the best nature has to offer.

You can just smell it. You install new carpeting in your home, and the air in your living room takes on a brash, chemical scent. That can't be good. Here are some tips for a green and healthy home.

Even in a down economy, the desire for kitchen and bath remodeling doesn't go away -- especially if you've "had it" with cabinets that are old, falling apart and out of style.

Despite a slumping economy, home improvements remain a popular investment for homeowners. Lisa LaPorta, designer and host of HGTV's "Designed to Sell," offers tips to help homeowners make good design decisions -- whether they're selling, staying or going green.