Chicago Home Show about more than just remodeling

The Chicago Home Show returned to the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles Saturday to help homeowners gather ideas and jump-start new projects.

Exhibitors present the latest in home remodeling and repair products and services, along with an assortment of energy-efficient windows and doors, vinyl siding, high-efficiency furnaces and air conditioners, landscaping services, designer kitchens and baths and more.

Peggy Ruh, president of The Home Shows Inc., said more than 100 exhibitors are participating in the annual show.

The goal, Ruh said, is to create a comfortable and neutral environment where people can come to ask the tough questions, including about costs and price-saving options.

"I try to make it fun ... because it gets real boring if you're going around and people are just trying to sell ya, sell ya, sell ya," she added.

Ruh describes the show as 'a little bit unique," adding, "I like to have a surprise around every corner."

So sprinkled among the home renovators are booths featuring other items geared toward homeowners such as gourmet sea salts for cooking, handmade wooden cutting boards and utensils, lawn decorations, patio furniture and gardening supplies. There's even a few animal rescue organizations, such as Fox Valley Wildlife of Elburn and Settler's Pond of Beecher, a shelter which specializes in hooved and exotic animal rescue.

The show continues Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Prairie Events Expo Hall. Admission and parking is free.

For information, visit ChicagoHomeShow.net, or call (630) 385-4000.