Ask a Pro: Your Local Professional for Northern St. Joseph & Elkhart Counties

Home Improvement

The holiday season in Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties brings cold weather, busy schedules, family gatherings, and increased home activity. Between decorating, cooking, hosting, winter weather challenges, and general holiday chaos, small safety issues that go unnoticed during the rest of the year can quickly become hazards. Homes in South Bend, Mishawaka, Elkhart, Granger, Osceola, Niles, and the surrounding communities face unique winter conditions—snow, freezing temperatures, slick surfaces, furnace strain, electrical load spikes, and increased use of fireplaces, space heaters, extension cords, lighting, and holiday décor.

Home Improvement

Winters across Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties can be intense, unpredictable, and long-lasting. Freezing temperatures, lake-effect snow, and fluctuating weather patterns mean homeowners must rely on heating systems that perform safely and efficiently. When the furnace, fireplace, or heating setup isn’t prepared for the season, small issues can quickly turn into major disruptions. Drafts, heat loss, system inefficiency, cracked fireplace masonry, clogged vents, or failing components can increase energy bills, reduce comfort, and create safety hazards. 

Home Improvement

As 2026 begins, homeowners across Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties are taking a moment to appreciate the one place that has carried them through every season, every celebration, and every challenge: their home. In Mishawaka, Granger, South Bend, Elkhart, Osceola, Edwardsburg, Bristol, and surrounding areas, homes endure long Midwest winters, heavy rainfall, humidity, windstorms, and freeze–thaw cycles year after year. The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to reflect on how much your home does for you—and to give it the care, attention, and upgrades it needs to stay safe, strong, and comfortable throughout 2026.

Home Improvements

Transforming an underutilized basement into a functional living area can significantly enhance your home's value and provide additional space tailored to your needs. At Mr. Handyman, we specialize in comprehensive basement remodeling services designed to bring your vision to life. This guide outlines key considerations and ideas to help you navigate your basement renovation project effectively.

Home Improvements

If you live in an area with extreme weather, keeping your home comfortable while giving your pet the freedom to roam can be a challenge. That’s where the right pet door comes in.

Home Improvement

Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries in the home, especially for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. A simple yet highly effective solution for enhancing home safety is the installation of grab bars. Whether in the bathroom, hallway, or any high-risk area, grab bars provide essential support, stability, and peace of mind.