Veronika Jelenik
EditorVeronika Jelenik is an editor for USA TODAY Homefront, where she edits articles spanning from moving and home warranty to roofing and HVAC. She has a background in journalism, having worked as a news reporter covering local government and municipal planning, a content update editor for Brides.com, and a freelance contributor to several major publications. Her pieces have been published in the New York Daily News, the Hartford Courant, PAPER Magazine and elsewhere. When not editing, you can find Veronika shopping for used books and vintage clothing, reading her poetry and creative nonfiction at open mics and cuddling with her Chihuahua, Beanie. She lives in Manhattan.
Recent Stories
Double-hung windows consist of two movable sashes (the panels that hold the glass) that can move independently of one another, allowing you to open the bottom sash, top sash or both. “Double-hung windows are versatile, enhance ventilation control and are easy to maintain,” said Greg Batista, president of South Florida-based G. Batista Engineering & Construction.…
Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines (NAVL) are our top picks for interstate moves in Oklahoma. Allied offers all moving services as a carrier, so you won’t have to worry about it brokering out your move to a third-party company. NAVL’s “bottom-line” and “not-to-exceed” pricing options provide peace of mind to customers who…
There are three main pest control methods to choose from when you encounter a pest problem — physical, biological and chemical. Depending on the type of pest, their locations and your goals, you may use one of these methods or a combination of the three. Physical methods involve creating barriers and using methods of exclusion.…
Our No. 1 pick for luxury moving needs is JK Moving Services because its moving teams receive some of the most comprehensive training in the moving industry. Each background-checked mover it hires trains at a fully furnished two-story home at JK’s headquarters, mimicking real moving processes and scenarios. American Van Lines is a close second…
U.S. Census data shows more than 50,000 residents moved from California to Florida between 2021 and 2022, making it one of the most popular routes among American moving customers. Florida’s cost of living — which is 23.6% lower than California’s across all factors — and lack of state income tax have made relocating there a…
Replacing an entire window — including the frame and glass — can be costly and time-consuming. If you have a broken or defective window pane, replacing just the window glass is faster and more cost-effective. Experienced DIYers can replace the glass in a window with the right tools and a little know-how. However, consider your…
We recommend North American Van Lines and Allied Van Lines for long-distance relocation services in Missouri. Both operate under the global relocation service provider Sirva, enabling them to conduct moves of any size and distance via their highly rated locations in Missouri. North American Van Lines’ “bottom-line” and “not-to-exceed” pricing options make it a good…
We recommend Allied Van Lines for long-distance moves to or from Louisiana. If you’re booking within Louisiana, Allied’s Elmwood location near New Orleans offers highly rated service plus access to full-service packing, short- and long-term storage and dedicated small-move solutions via its Allied Express service plans. If you’re planning a local move, start your quote…
California’s numerous job opportunities in finance, manufacturing and information technology, plus its diverse landscape and unique climate zones, attract thousands of new residents each year. More than 31,000 residents moved from New York to California in 2022 despite the West Coast state’s slightly higher cost of living, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. When planning…
We recommend Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines (NAVL) for long-distance moves to or from Kentucky. Allied offers a small-move package called Allied Express that provides expedited moving container assistance for two-bedroom and smaller homes, plus basic and specialty services for larger residences. NAVL offers long-distance service via multiple Kentucky locations and access…
We recommend North American Van Lines (NAVL) for long-distance moves to and from Nebraska. It offers “not-to-exceed” and “bottom-line” pricing, which can help you stay within your budget. For local Nebraska moves, we like College Hunks. In addition to loading and transportation, College Hunks offers junk removal, packing services and more. Each moving company we…
Finding a spider in your home can be jarring. But in most cases, getting rid of spiders is more about peace of mind than safety. Decluttering, reducing insect activity and sealing entry points are the best DIY solutions for unwanted spiders. In the rare instance the spiders you find are venomous and can harm you…
We recommend Mayflower and Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) for a long-distance Vermont move. Mayflower’s dedicated service packages for small and large moves make it a versatile option, and IMRG’s vast partner network allows clients in all locations to book local and long-distance services. For local moves within the state, we found that Grunts…
Indiana’s low housing costs and property taxes may attract movers seeking decreased living expenses — more than 149,000 new residents moved there in 2022 per Census data. Whether you’re a Hoosier State native moving to downtown Indianapolis or a newcomer entering the state’s fast-growing renewable energy field, our guide will help you find a reputable…
Ultrasonic pest repellers use high-frequency sound outside the range of human hearing to repel rats, mice, cockroaches, termites, fleas, bedbugs and other pests. Some companies even claim that their devices get rid of all types of insects and pests. But whether these devices are effective is a cause for some debate. According to several studies…
Flat-rate movers help you stick to your budget because you know what you’re going to pay. When a full-service mover offers flat-rate quotes, you can count on receiving all agreed-upon services at that price unless your inventory or move distance meaningfully changes after receiving the quote. Our research shows American Van Lines and Safeway Moving…
Summer temperatures peak at more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit in most parts of Arizona, with several regions reaching well over 80 degrees Fahrenheit through November. Moving to your new home in such heat could slow the process and pose safety risks. We recommend booking a pro mover in late fall, winter or early spring to…
Booking pet transport services for your animal companion’s travel or permanent relocation can be a difficult proposition. You’ll have to choose a company whose hiring practices and shipping options provide you with peace of mind that your pet will be safe in transit. We’ve reviewed several of the best relocation services for furry friends, including…
Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) are an increasingly popular flooring type. LVP flooring is water-resistant (with some types being 100% waterproof) and low-maintenance. It also closely resembles wood or stone floors thanks to advancements in design and texture. The only challenge is finding a reputable brand that fits your budget and lifestyle. “Durability and style should…
We recommend International Van Lines (IVL) and Allied Van Lines for long-distance and interstate California moves. Both movers provide long-distance service in all 50 states and international relocations in more than 100 countries. IVL has a wide range of specialty services, including white-glove service, while Allied employs its own moving crews and offers vehicle shipping…