Stephanie Mickelson

Contributing Writer

About

Stephanie Mickelson is a freelance writer covering home improvement, real estate, design, and personal finance. Before beginning her freelance career, she worked in residential construction, specifically remodeling kitchens, installing cabinets, flooring, countertops, trim, and more. Stephanie is an experienced DIYer, ready to tackle any and every project. She has been a freelance writer for five years, and her work can also be seen at Apartment Therapy, Bob Vila, and HomeLight.

Hometown: Eau Claire, WI

Passions: Personal finance, budgeting, DIY projects, reading, organizing

Favorite home style: mid-century modern with a dash of hygge

Articles

Stephanie Mickelson • Sep 24, 2026

How Much Does Backsplash Installation Cost? [2026 Data]

Backsplash installation costs vary by tile type, design, kitchen layout, and contractor. Find out how much your dream backsplash will cost you.

Stephanie Mickelson • Sep 24, 2026

7 Types of Hot Tubs and How to Choose the Right One

Compare the 7 types of hot tubs by price, power, and install effort. Use our buyer framework to pick the right hot tub for your space and budget.

Stephanie Mickelson • Sep 15, 2026

How Much Does a Pool Heater Cost to Install? [2026 Data]

Installing a pool heater ensures that your pool gets used as much as possible, but is the pool heater cost worth it? Let’s find out.

Stephanie Mickelson • Sep 3, 2026

How Much Does Hardwood Flooring Installation Cost? [2026 Data]

Both materials and labor determine hardwood floor installation costs. This guide breaks down all the prices you need to know before starting your new flooring project.

Stephanie Mickelson • Aug 31, 2026

How Much Does Laminate Flooring Installation Cost? [2026 Data]

Laminate is a solid choice for many homes because it's durable and budget-friendly. Check out this guide to learn about laminate flooring installation costs.

Stephanie Mickelson • Aug 9, 2026

Why Is My Home So Dusty? 5 Common Problems and Solutions

Wondering why your home is so dusty? We found five reasons why dust may accumulate in your home and how to resolve them and freshen up your space.

Stephanie Mickelson • Aug 9, 2026

Do I Need Carpet Padding?

Carpet padding helps the carpet last longer and makes it more comfortable, among other benefits. If you’re wondering whether you need carpet padding, we have answers.

Stephanie Mickelson • Aug 5, 2026

How to Remove Grout Haze That Is Clouding Your New Tiles

If you’ve just installed new tiles only to find them covered in a dull film a few days later, don’t panic. We’ll show you how to remove grout haze promptly and effectively.