Emma Diehl

Contributing Writer

Emma is an award-winning writer, editor, and journalist with a knack for tackling tricky topics around home improvement and finance. When she’s not writing about DIY, she’s living it—slowly updating her 100-year-old home. You can find more of her work on HomeLight, SoFi, Trustpilot, and Apartment Therapy.

About

Emma is a writer, editor, and journalist with a focus on home improvement, technology, and finance. Her content has helped people do everything from filing their tax returns to staying on top of home maintenance.

When she’s not writing about how to improve a home, she’s probably doing it. When her 100-year-old home suffered severe water damage, she took on the general contractor role, overseeing the project and learning a lot along the way.

Emma has had work published on NPR and the Huffington Post, in addition to home-related content on Apartment Therapy, HomeLight, SoFi, and more. If Emma’s not writing, she's probably tackling her next DIY, or maintaining the Little Free DVD Library she runs outside her home.

Quick facts

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Education: Lehigh University
Expertise: Personal finance, home improvement, budgeting, DIY

Highlights

An award-winning writer with a knack for distilling down tricky topics into understandable projects
Written for HomeLight, SoFi, Trustpilot, and Apartment Therapy
Woodworker, sewer, and avid thrifter

Published work

6 Organizing Habits to Steal from the Professionals Who Help Boomers Downsize, Apartment Therapy
Adding a Whole New Bathroom to Your House? Here’s What it’ll Cost, HomeLight
The 3 Things That Made Me Want to Sell My House During the Pandemic, Apartment Therapy

Articles

Emma Diehl • Aug 5, 2026

Quartz Sinks Pros and Cons: Here’s What to Know

Quartz sinks can be an affordable and simple-to-maintain alternative to stone sinks. Learn about quartz sinks pros and cons in this guide.

Emma Diehl • Aug 4, 2026

Metal Shingles vs. Standing Seam: What’s the Difference?

Deciding between metal shingles vs. a standing seam roof comes down to your roof's slope, your budget, and your home's design.

Emma Diehl • Aug 4, 2026

Fireclay vs. Stainless Steel Sinks: Pros, Cons, and Costs

When it comes to fireclay vs. stainless steel sinks, the biggest differences are in style and price. Explore all their features.

Emma Diehl • Aug 1, 2026

What Is an Air Conditioner Capacitor? Exploring the Key to Keeping You Cool

An air conditioner capacitor is basically a small, cylindrical battery that holds enough energy to start your AC without pulling electricity from the home.

Emma Diehl • Aug 1, 2026

Aerator vs. Dethatcher: Which Is Better for Your Lawn?

What’s the difference between aerating vs. dethatching your lawn? Learn which method will better suit your grass and give you the yard of your dreams.

Emma Diehl • Aug 1, 2026

How Do Irrigation Valves Work? Everything You Need to Know

Are you wondering how irrigation valves work? Read our guide to learn more about these important sprinkler system parts.

Emma Diehl • Jul 20, 2026

How Long Can an Air Conditioner Run Continuously?

When the weather’s sweltering outside, can you run your air conditioner continuously to stay cool, or does it need time to rest?

Emma Diehl • Jul 9, 2026

Dishwasher Not Cleaning? Reasons Why and What to Do

Is your dishwasher not cleaning properly? This may happen for a few reasons, including a dirty filter or broken inlet valve. Learn how to troubleshoot your dishwasher cleaning problems.