DIY Advice Blog

Five Easy Ways to Reduce Yard Work

2013-05-13T19:18:00Z

If you feel like a slave to your yard trying to keep up with all of its maintenance demands, it's time to set yourself free. Here are some easy ways to reduce or even eliminate basic yard chores so you can free up some time to actually enjoy being outside! Build paths you can mow over Stone or paver paths that follow the topography of your yard let you mow without additional trimming. Paths that conform to the landscape require less upkeep than more formal paths that include steps, walls and...(read more)

Three Simple Household Repairs That'll Save You Hundreds

2013-05-10T15:13:00Z

In the past year, I've done three appliance repairs that I'm sure would have cost me three or four hundred dollars if I would have called a repair service. All of these are common problems that are cheap and easy to fix. Front loading washer wouldn't drain properly Remove the front panel. Look for the screws that hold the front panel on and remove them. You'll probably need a hex driver for this. You'll find the pump and filter behind the panel. Our front loading washer seemed...(read more)

Tools That Make Yard Work Easy: The Big Backpack Blower

2013-04-22T20:25:00Z

I live smack dab in the middle of an oak forest. Believe me, I know all about leaves in the fall —I'm talking 2-ft.-deep drifts over a half acre of driveway and yard. At first I had one of those little gas-powered handheld blowers. It worked about as well as mowing the lawn with a pair of scissors. Then I bucked up for a Stihl commercial backpack blower, which packs a muzzle velocity of 225 mph! The bill was kinda painful ($250 five years back), but what a game changer. It still takes me...(read more)

Avoid Frozen Sump Pump Pipes

2013-04-16T19:34:00Z

Last fall I tackled a little project that could have caused me big problems. The previous spring, I had a drain tile system installed in my basement. The system discharges outside, and I quickly tired of looking at that ugly black extension hose sticking out the side of my house. I decided to bury a pipe to carry the water out near a rock garden about 20 ft. from the house. What seemed like an easy, inexpensive project could have turned out to be a costly disaster. If your sump pump's discharge...(read more)

Don't Burn Down Your House: Preventing Clothes Dryer Fires

2013-04-10T16:35:00Z

Lint buildup in a dryer and its vent cuts the dryer's efficiency. Clothes take longer to dry, while your energy bills go up. But the biggest reason to clean out lint is that lint buildup can lead to a fire. Most experts recommend cleaning it out once a year. The best tool for cleaning the vent is a special brush with a long, flexible shaft (about $30 at most home centers). But if you want to save some money, you can use a handheld plumbing snake and a rag. Disconnect the dryer from the vent and...(read more)

Lower Your Utility Bills: Better Bath Fan Controls

2013-04-02T18:56:00Z

A bath fan can save energy or waste it, depending on how long you let it run after a steamy shower. If you don't let it run long enough, a lot of humidity is left in the air, and that forces your air conditioning system to work much harder. If you leave it on too long, the fan is needlessly pumping heated or cooled air outside while drawing in outside air—that, too, makes your HVAC system work harder. Removing an existing fan switch and installing a humidistat or timer switch is a simple...(read more)

Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas

2013-03-27T15:06:00Z

I'm a yard and garden nut, and there's nothing I love more than digging in the dirt. But I'm also very busy, so I need my yard and garden to thrive without a lot of watering, weeding and fertilizing. If you want a beautiful yard without a lot of fuss, here are six low-maintenance landscaping tips that will keep your yard looking great with minimal effort. 1. Replace some of your turf with ground covers Many ground cover sedums are deer- and drought-proof and thrive in both sunny and shady...(read more)

Time to Deal with Crabgrass!

2013-03-20T20:47:00Z

If you had crabgrass last year, you have thousands of seeds in your lawn just waiting to sprout. And once that happens, you'll likely be looking at crabgrass again all summer. All it takes is one itty-bitty crabgrass seed to create a monster like this one. Spring is the time to apply crabgrass preventer (aka preemergence treatment) to your lawn. It works by preventing seeds from germinating. You have a very short window of time to apply the preventer. Miss it and you're stuck with another...(read more)

Backyard Structures: Three Projects to Inspire You

2013-03-14T18:01:00Z

Well, it's almost spring again and time to start planning for that backyard structure you've been thinking about. At our house, we've been contemplating a gazebo over the patio and are just looking for the perfect design. If you're looking for inspiration for a new backyard improvement, here are three projects from our archives to get your creative juices flowing. 1. This deck has plenty of ways to inspire. Look closely at the plans for this deck and you're sure to find an idea...(read more)

Frugal Living: Make Your Vacuum Last

2013-03-06T21:26:00Z

A vacuum repairman once told me that he was going to name his new boat "The Bagless" in honor of the vacuums that paid for it. Bagless models don't end up in his shop because they're unreliable, but because their owners are. The filters on bagless vacuums require regular cleaning. A dirty filter leads to an overworked motor. And that leads to repairs ($100 or more). Use a shop vacuum to clean the filter from your bagless vacuum cleaner. The usual way to clean a filter is to knock...(read more)

Organizing a Chest Freezer

2013-02-26T18:19:00Z

My wife recently told me to quit complaining about our dirty, unorganized chest freezer, and do something about it, so I did. Before: My chest freezer was impossible to keep organized. I emptied the whole thing out, defrosted it and gave it a good cleaning inside and out. But instead of just throwing everything back in helter-skelter, I decided to get organized. The inherent problem with chest freezers is that everything gets piled on everything else. And though it may start out with "meats...(read more)

DIY Fixes for a Greener Home

2013-02-20T17:31:00Z

As DIYers, we love to build, tinker and fix things. Here are five things you can do to make your everyday DIY efforts greener. They can save you money, make your home more energy-efficient and/or make your home healthier and more comfortable. 1. Choose low- or zero-VOC paint Improve the air quality of your home with low- and zero-VOC paints. That "new paint smell" of traditional paints is really VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These chemicals off-gas (vaporize) into the air and can cause...(read more)

Benefits of Synthetic Oil

2013-02-14T19:53:00Z

Almost all new engines are designed to run on synthetic oil. To find out if your vehicle actually requires it, just check your owner's manual. If the manufacturer specifies a synthetic blend for your engine, you must use it, or upgrade to a full synthetic for even more benefits. Don't make the mistake of downgrading to a conventional oil to save money. You risk voiding your warranty and causing premature engine wear. If your vehicle manufacturer specifies synthetic oil, never downgrade to...(read more)

Four Tips to Prepare for the Next Ice Storm

2013-01-30T17:03:00Z

Salt your walks and driveway ahead of time Pick up a bag or container of ice melt or deicing salt at a home center or hardware store and sprinkle it on your sidewalks, steps and driveway. If you have a dog or are putting salt on a public sidewalk, look for pet-friendly ice melt. Also keep a bag of sand on hand in case you need extra traction on the driveway after the storm. Before the ice storm hits, sprinkle deicing salt or ice melt on your steps, sidewalk and driveway. Need electricity for your...(read more)

Garage Security: A Burglarproof Door

2013-01-23T21:17:00Z

To get real-world garage-security advice, I've spoken with cops, insurance adjusters, even burglars. But one of my most interesting security talks was with a firefighter who routinely busts through doors to do his job. When I asked him about garage security, he told me two interesting things: Secure wood-panel service doors to keep your garage - and everything stored or parked inside of it - safe. 1. Lots of garages still have old, wood-panel service doors. The panels are thin and easy to break...(read more)

Why You Should Buy a Trim Gun

2013-01-18T21:11:00Z

If you're interested in getting started in woodworking by building small projects, you really don't need a fully equipped shop. With a little creativity, you can build just about any small project with a circular saw, a jigsaw and a screw gun. As your skill level, project complexity and knowledge increase, you'll know what power tools are next on your wish list. You can use a "pinner" or trim gun for more than fastening projects together. For example, try using it to build mock...(read more)

7 Ways to Make Your Home More Functional in the New Year

2013-01-09T20:19:00Z

A brand new year means it's time to reorganize and reprioritize the spaces around your house. The good news is, there are simple ways to gain more storage in the most important rooms in your house without remodeling. Here are seven ways to welcome the new year with less clutter and chaos. 1. Maximize closet space For economy and quick installation, you can't beat wire shelving systems; you can outfit a typical closet in an afternoon for less than $200. Home centers have everything you need...(read more)

It's Elementary: Teaching Kids to DIY

2013-01-02T21:00:00Z

When a pipe leaks or a door sticks, some people grab their toolbox. Others grab their phone and call a pro. For that second type of person, home ownership is frustrating and expensive. And I don't want my daughter to become one of them. So whenever there's a fix-it job around our house, I get her involved. With her "help," jobs take twice as long, and I know her 7-year-old brain probably won't retain the how-to information. Start some screws in a scrap of drywall and let the...(read more)

10 Easy Holiday Storage Tips

2012-12-28T18:52:00Z

With New Year's Eve just around the corner, you'll soon be thinking about cleaning up after the holidays and getting organized for 2013. Here are 10 of my favorite storage tips to make putting away your precious holiday items faster and easier. 2. Label the layers of your artificial tree. 1. Easy ornament storage It's hard to store fragile ornaments without breaking them. Here's an easy solution: Use a plastic storage tub and store each ornament in a separate plastic cup (the 6-oz...(read more)

Winter Driving: Tips to Stay Out of the Ditch

2012-12-18T17:42:00Z

Here in Minnesota, we had our first taste of winter driving a few weeks ago when a surprise dusting of snow fell on warm asphalt and froze, turning the roads into a virtual skating rink. Traffic was snarled and there were cars in the ditch everywhere. It always takes one event like this to remind people how to survive winter driving. Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you're faced with icy roads. Replace your wiper blades with winter blades to keep them free of ice. 1. Replace...(read more)

3 Tips for DIY Holiday Success

2012-12-12T21:22:00Z

Getting ready for the holidays is a lot of work. I think the Grinch had the best approach, but simply stealing Christmas isn't an option at my house. So I've come up with some DIY tricks for better holiday preparations: 1. Hang a wreath on a door A wreath looks great on a door and you can hang one without driving a nail or screw into the face of the door. I've found this works with wood, metal and fiberglass doors. I also learned (the hard way) that the wreath will swing as the door is...(read more)

Top 5 Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Winter Driving

2012-12-07T16:20:00Z

1. Check (and change) your coolant Driving on worn-out coolant is a bad idea all year-round, but it's especially bad in winter. Worn coolant can freeze and destroy your engine. You can test its freeze protection level with an inexpensive gauge (less than $10) from any auto parts store. But there's more to coolant than just freeze protection. Fresh coolant prevents corrosion damage to your heater core, radiator and water pump. Once corrosion starts, the heater core plugs up and you lose heat...(read more)

10 Tips for Dealing With Water Damage, Mold and Mildew

2012-12-05T17:00:00Z

A flooded basement, moldy drywall and mildewed grout are no fun to deal with. Here are tips to help you prevent water damage and mold growth from happening in the first place, and tips for handling these situations if they do occur. Be proactive - clean mold and mildew as soon as you spot them in your home. Tip 1: Control indoor moisture to prevent mold The key to stopping mold and mildew is to control dampness. The worst infestations usually occur in damp crawlspaces, in attics and walls where water...(read more)

10 Tips for Using a Chain Saw

2012-12-04T17:00:00Z

A chain saw is one of the most dangerous tools a do-it-yourselfer will ever handle. One mistake and you can wind up with serious injuries. Here are 10 common sense tips to protect you and your property. Be sure to take safety precautions before you use a chain saw to cut down a tree. Tip 1: Wear Kevlar chaps The Kevlar fibers will stop the chain well before it gets to the flesh on your leg. So invest the $75. Tip 2: Wear a logger's helmet Essential safety gear includes a logger's helmet for...(read more)

10 Tips to Survive a Blackout

2012-12-03T07:00:00Z

A power outage is more than an inconvenience; it can lead to expensive repairs and may even be dangerous to you and your family. These tips will help you protect yourself, your wallet and maintain some conveniences in a blackout. Carbon monoxide is a major threat in the aftermath of a power outage. Make sure your carbon monoxide detector has fresh batteries and be sure to run generators outdoors, away from your home. Tip 1: Prepare for power surges As utility companies work to restore power, the...(read more)

10 Tips for Using a Generator

2012-11-29T17:00:00Z

Generators can be a real lifesaver. But used improperly, they can be a killer, too. Carbon monoxide and electrocution hazards are real dangers if you don't know what you're doing. Here are a few of the most important things to keep in mind. Never run a generator inside your home or an enclosed area. It's safest to operate a generator in an open outdoor space with plenty of ventilation. Tip 1: Never operate a generator in or too close to your house Generator manufacturers warn you over...(read more)

Instant Kitchen Storage: Two 10-Minute Projects

2012-11-26T19:00:00Z

Here are two simple projects to organize items in your kitchen. The best part is that each project takes 10 minutes or less to do. Project #1: Super-simple spice storage This storage project will actually take you five minutes to pull off. Tiny spice containers are one of the worst things to store in a drawer or cabinet because they get lost among all the taller spices and everything else you've got jammed in there. Project #1: Super-simple spice storage The solution? A spring tension rod, the...(read more)

Cheapskate Picket Fence

2012-11-16T20:18:00Z

I needed to make a fence for my new dog. Lady has the dangerous habit of roaming about the busy county road that we live on. I love my dog, but I'm also cheap. I thought I could get by with spending a few hundred bucks on an electronic fence, but then I figured it wasn't in the budget, so I was forced to build one myself. I decided a picket fence was the way to go. I saved tons of money building this fence by using salvaged lumber and cutting 6-ft. pickets in half. I don't consider myself...(read more)

Fall Lawn Care: Keep a Healthy Yard Through Winter

2012-11-12T16:49:00Z

Most homeowners assume that at the end of the summer, their grass care duties are over. Nothing could be more wrong. The truth is, fall is the time when your lawn needs you the most. That's the best time to get it ready for spring. Follow these five steps and you'll have the healthiest lawn you've ever had next spring when things start greening up again. Don't skip the fall fertilizing. Before the lawn goes dormant for the winter, you should feed it well. 1. Water: If it's been...(read more)

My Workshop Space Saver

2012-11-09T16:04:00Z

For years I used a store-bought miter saw stand in my workshop. It was light and easy to fold up—great for hauling around in the back of my pickup truck. These days, though, my saw doesn't leave my workshop more than once or twice a year. And as much as I liked that stand, it took up a lot of floor space in my shop—and who's got extra floor space? I decided to build a saw stand that wouldn't hog so much room. My new stand sits 38 in. high and 90 in. wide with the wings up...(read more)

5 Favorite Easy DIY Projects

2012-10-31T17:07:00Z

Many DIY projects are not ones you would choose. Your house chooses them for you: the clogged toilet, the broken dryer, the lawn that needs to be rescued, etc. But there are also the projects you do because you'll love them. And the best of these DIY projects are fast, cheap and easy. Here are some of our all-time favorites—ones we've done in our own homes and among the most popular we've ever published: Rollouts give you access to everything in your cabinets—no more struggling...(read more)

Hurricane Sandy Aftermath Tips

2012-10-29T21:13:00Z

The period after the hurricane is as dangerous as the storm itself. High winds and storm surges cause a lot of property damage during a hurricane. But more people die in the aftermath of a hurricane than during the storm itself-primarily from carbon monoxide poisoning and electrocution. These tips will help you navigate many of the dangers that come up as a result of a hurricane. Avoid electrocution by staying on high ground until you know the electricity is off. Using two chairs you can make your...(read more)

How I Saved Money This Month: Cleaning Refrigerator Coils

2012-10-23T16:52:00Z

"The smartest thing you can do for your fridge is to keep the coils clean. It cuts electricity bills and repair bills." Clean refrigerator coils and save money. All it takes is a vacuum, a brush and 15 minutes. Coils are usually beneath the fridge and accessible from the front. But some — like the ones here — are hidden behind a cover plate in back. Over the years, I've heard that a dozen times from a dozen appliance experts. Here's why: The coils' job is to dissipate...(read more)

How to Plan for Kitchen Cabinets

2012-10-17T20:06:00Z

Last year, my son and I bought a 25-year-old, rundown foreclosed house, really cheap. Part of the remodel (a.k.a., a complete rebuild) was of course replacing the kitchen. There really wasn't much to replace because the previous owners had already ripped out the old kitchen. Plus, we had torn out and replaced all the old walls so the kitchen footprint was completely new as well. So how to plan the new kitchen? I put down rosin paper onto the floor, snapped chalk lines to mark the depth of the...(read more)

Choosing the Right Paint Sheen

2012-10-10T15:50:00Z

I went to the paint store the other day to pick up paint for the bathroom, and the salesperson asked what sheen I wanted. I'm painting woodwork and the walls. Even though I thought I knew the answer, I asked what the choices were. Satin is a good sheen for woodwork. It's got a bit of glossiness but doesn't telegraph every imperfection. In order of sheen, from least glossy to most, here's what he said: flat, flat enamel, eggshell enamel, satin enamel, semigloss enamel and high-gloss...(read more)

Favorite Electrical Tool

2012-10-02T21:05:00Z

Every time I install new electrical cable, I wind up using three tools. First I use a utility knife to slice down the center of the cable jacket and remove the excess jacket. I figure I'm doing well if I don't slice my hand in the process. Then I use a wire stripper tool to remove insulation from each wire. Finally, I use an electrician's pliers to bend the copper wire ends into loops. Well, I'm giving up on all those tools now that I own the Ideal Industries brand Lil' Ripper...(read more)

Instant Kitchen Storage: Racks for Canned Goods

2012-09-21T18:19:00Z

Finding more storage in your overflowing kitchen (without adding cabinets) isn't hard. You just have to be creative. Here's a simple project that will help you tame your kitchen chaos, and the best part is--it takes 10 minutes or less to do. All you need to make these racks for canned goods is some wire closet shelving. Measure your cabinets and trim the wire shelving to length using a bolt cutter or a hacksaw. You can wedge the bottom rack into place and it will stay put. For the upper racks...(read more)

High-Definition TV Wiring

2012-09-19T20:03:00Z

Several years ago, I made the leap to Hi-Def TV. Got the HD satellite box and TV, surround sound—the whole bit. I have to say I was disappointed. The picture wasn't nearly as good as I remembered it being in the showroom. So I had the satellite guys out. "Nope, that's HD, all right!" Really? Yep. Over the next year, I had two more different sets of sat guys come out for various reasons. Same deal..."Yeah, that's Hi-Def." When you're a TV golf fan like I am...(read more)

3 Plumbing Repairs Anyone Can Do

2012-09-11T19:58:00Z

According to a study I've been conducting for the past 20 years, almost every home in North America needs at least one of these plumbing repairs. And that's a shame, because each of these plumbing repairs is quick and easy. You can do each one in 15 minutes or less, even if you have no plumbing experience. 1. Clean a clogged faucet aerator If the flow from your faucet is weak, unscrew the aerator and clean the little plastic parts inside. Scrub off gunk with a toothbrush or scrape with a...(read more)

Easy Repairs With Epoxy

2012-09-05T16:39:00Z

Most of the houses on my block are more than 100 years old, so as you can imagine, they need a lot of maintenance and repair. I was walking the dog the other day and ran into one of my neighbors who owns a classic old house that has two-story fluted wood columns supporting the front porches. As I was leaning against one of the old columns chatting with him, I noticed that the trim around the bottom of the column was rotting. I mentioned to him that with the right material, fixing the rot is an easy...(read more)

Hurricane Safety

2012-08-27T21:52:00Z

Hurricane season is here. With tropical storm Isaac in the Gulf headed towards New Orleans, it's a good time to remind people of hurricane safety precautions to minimize damage caused by a hurricane. The period after is as dangerous as the storm itself. Photo by: Emma Lee/Life File/Photographers Choice/Getty Images Hurricane Safety Tip 1: The number one thing to do to be safe is to listen to the local officials. If they tell you to evacuate, do it. Property can be replaced, your life can't...(read more)

Monitor Your Energy Consumption

2012-08-22T19:43:00Z

My wife and I were recently going over our monthly bills trying to figure out how we could save a little money. When our electricity bill came to the chopping block, the chest freezer in our garage became the subject du jour. It was almost 15 years old, and I didn't remember it being a really expensive model to begin with. I suggested that we consider getting rid of it, but my wife insisted that the money we saved every month buying sale items in bulk more than made up for our energy consumption...(read more)

No-Tools Toilet Installation

2012-08-21T18:26:00Z

I'm a little wary when manufacturers say that there are no tools needed to install one of their products. So when given the opportunity to install a new toilet for my master bathroom, I decided to give the American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise Right Height Complete No-Tools Toilet from The Home Depot a try. It was one of the easiest toilet installs I have completed. Newly installed American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise Right Height Complete No-Tools Toilet. This toilet is a little taller than my old...(read more)

How to Save Money: Replace Brake Rotors

2012-08-17T18:14:00Z

A couple weeks ago, I drove my wife's car for the first time in a while. When I applied the brakes from high speeds, the steering wheel shook a lot. I knew it was time to replace the rotors. She has a 2007 Chevy Malibu with 113,000+ miles on it and we have never replaced the brakes, which is well over the recommended time before changing them. Newly installed brake rotor and inserting new brake pad into caliper. Replacing brake pads and rotors is not a hard or long DIY job. However, this time...(read more)

Slanted Bookshelves

2012-07-23T16:24:00Z

My wife and I enjoy reading, and we seem to acquire a lot of books. A couple of years ago, we ran out of bookshelf space, and since then, piles of books started forming around the house. Before someone had the chance to accuse me of being a hoarder, I decided it was time to build a set of bookshelves. This was last winter, and I was looking for a good excuse for an indoor project anyway. Instead of making run-of-the-mill bookshelves, I decided to mix it up a bit and build a slanted set. Books won’t...(read more)

Beat the Heat and Cut Cooling Costs

2012-07-17T16:16:00Z

Ten years ago, I installed central air conditioning in my old house, but the south bedrooms were still too steamy. I thought about reworking the duct system to pump in more cold air, but tried something simpler first: I built these simple shutters to block out the afternoon sun. It worked—those rooms now stay comfortably cool. To save on cooling costs, install simple shutters to block the afternoon sun. According to energy experts, reducing sunlight through south and west windows is one of...(read more)

A New Faucet: Hard Choices, Easy Installation

2012-07-17T15:07:00Z

I've installed hundreds of faucets over the years, but none recently. Yesterday I learned that choosing a faucet is tough and installing one is easier than it used to be. The tough part in choosing a faucet is that there are way too many choices. As we approached faucet display wonderland at The Home Depot, my wife's eyes lit up like a kid at a carnival, and I knew this would not be a quick decision. I told her to pick one with ceramic disc valves (because I don't want to fix another...(read more)

How to Clean Your Air Conditioner

2012-07-09T16:14:00Z

As my buddy walked up the driveway, he noticed my condenser (the exterior unit of my central AC system), which was caked with dirt, grass and even a few dead insects. He gave me a look that said, "You're an idiot." Then he gave me a sermon that only a heating/cooling engineer like himself could deliver. I didn't understand most of it, but I got the key point: When the fins surrounding the unit are dirty, the fan can't efficiently suck air through them and the whole system has...(read more)

How I Saved Money: I Made an Old Door Energy Efficient

2012-07-03T20:45:00Z

Save money by sealing your exterior door with aluminum and vinyl weatherstripping. Cut the strips to length with a hacksaw. Then press the vinyl bulb against the door while you drive in the screws. A lot of people with a 100-year-old back door like mine would replace it with a new, energy-efficient one. But I like to save money when I can, plus I like to avoid tearing out parts that are original to the house. So I decided to restore the old door rather than replace it. This approach saved me several...(read more)

Rose Gardens: My Radical Response to Japanese Beetles

2012-06-27T16:33:00Z

My Japanese beetle-bedraggled roses are in the very back row behind the peony (in 2011). Japanese beetles chow down on roses! My North Star cherry was lovely in bloom (before those beetles chomped on it!). The roses are now gone and in their place I've planted a Yellow Ribbon arborvitae and ornamental grasses. I'm not normally a violent person. And working in my garden usually helps me achieve an even more Zen-like state. But three summers ago when I discovered Japanese beetles feasting on...(read more)

Bagster Smarts

2012-06-21T14:10:00Z

You buy the Bagster bag, which costs about $30, and Waste Management will pick it up for a collection fee. The fee varies—in our area, it's $70. To find the service and price it, go to thebagster.com. After my son and I decided to re-side his house, he spent an entire day stripping off the old vinyl siding. And what a pile it was! How do we get rid of it? We decided to give the new Bagster service from Waste Management a shot. We brought the Bagster bag home and unfolded it by the curb...(read more)

Maintenance-Free Decking: PVC vs. Composite

2012-06-12T15:35:00Z

Do you know how to avoid staining a deck? Build it from something other than wood. There are a hundred different low-maintenance decking products on the market, but the two most popular are composite and cellular PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Both will save you from your summer staining rituals, but there are differences between the two. And even within these two categories, there are many different manufacturers and a wide variety of products, but here are some general characteristics: Composite decking...(read more)

Drip Irrigation for Vegetables

2012-06-05T15:10:00Z

The setup is easy to install and costs less than $50. This raised-bed vegetable garden is watered automatically every three days by a drip watering system. Emitters installed every 12 in. or so provide even watering. I have a little, 4 x 16-ft. raised-bed vegetable garden and a couple of big containers for veggies (top-left photo). Unfortunately, I'm often out of town (camping trips, mostly) and have had a hard time keeping up with watering. I needed some backyard irrigation. So I built this...(read more)

How to Choose a Pond Pump

2012-05-29T16:00:00Z

To help you size a pond pump, measure how high the water needs to be lifted. If you're pumping water to reach the top of a fountain, the start of a little river or a waterfall, you have to know how high the water needs to be lifted before you go buy the pump. That's far more important than the volume or power rating of the pump. When you're at the store or shopping online, look for the maximum height the pump will lift water. It'll be included in the specifications on the box. That...(read more)

What The Avengers Can Teach Us About Home Remodeling

2012-05-29T14:14:00Z

Photo courtesy of Marvel. Marvel's The Avengers had a record-setting opening weekend of $200.3 million dollars. A lot of us saw the movie, but if you didn't, don't worry, there are no spoilers here. This team of superheroes comes together to help fight for the survival of the human race - what could be better? Each of these superheroes has something they can teach us about not only life in general, but also home remodeling projects. Yes, you read that right - and I'll prove it to...(read more)

How to Make a Shade Tree Thrive

2012-05-21T20:58:00Z

Shade trees need lots of water but not all at one time. Rule of thumb: Stick your finger in the soil near the tree; if saturated, don't water. I spent part of last weekend digging out two-year-old birch clumps that didn't survive the conditions in our backyard. It was disheartening, but I guess on the upside, a good learning experience. The first lesson I learned: Wishful thinking isn't enough to grow trees. My wife and I love birch clumps, but obviously they don't love our yard....(read more)

Garage Organization: Finding Space on High

2012-05-16T14:56:00Z

I have enough camping gear in my garage to start my own REI store. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for ways to improve my garage organization and storage. One of the most successful was this high shelf, which runs along two entire sides of the garage, a couple of feet below the ceiling. It’s pretty simple: 2x4s and ½-in. strand board, 24 in. wide, nailed together and nailed to the wall studs. To prevent sagging, the outside edge is attached to the rafters every 8 ft...(read more)

Xeriscape Gardening: Growing Plants With Less Water

2012-05-09T18:43:00Z

My zone four xeriscape garden has a succession of blooms from spring through fall including pink soapwort, alliiums, dianthus, artemisias, Russian sage and native grasses. All of these thrive in low water conditions. With drought conditions and watering restrictions commonplace in communities around the country, the issue of watering lawns and gardens is on the minds of many—including me. One thing I've done to reduce the amount of watering I do is to create an entire garden devoted to...(read more)

Stop Roof Leaks Before They Start

2012-05-02T20:06:00Z

Torn rubber and missing nails can allow gallons of water into your house. It's springtime! The snow is gone, and this can only mean one thing: It's time for my yearly roof inspection. Living in Wisconsin, we get all four seasons of weather. Six months of winter followed by two months each of spring, summer and fall. OK, maybe I exaggerate, but you get the idea. Temperatures in the summer can exceed 100 degrees F and fall well below zero in winter. These extreme temperatures year after year...(read more)

How to Build a Deck: Prevent Rot at the Patio Door

2012-04-23T19:37:00Z

Plan on building a deck? Reduce the chance of water infiltration—install the decking a few inches below patio and entry door thresholds. It's true that decking installed at the same level as the interior flooring looks great and makes for a smooth transition, but unless you live in the desert, it's not a good idea. When decking is installed up tight to the bottom of a door, that door is not only subject to falling rain, but also to the rain that splashes off the decking. And if you...(read more)

Entrance Gates: Replacement Tips

2012-04-18T17:14:00Z

No part of a fence gets more use than the entrance gates. And, if your fence has been in place for a while, chances are the posts are starting to deteriorate and the gates aren't closing properly. You can try shimming the side or entrance gate hinges, but that's not a long-term solution. The real fix is to replace the fence posts. It's not difficult or expensive, but you will work up a sweat. Here are a few tips to help reduce your workout and make the fence posts last longer. Disconnect...(read more)

Build a Storm Shelter

2012-04-11T17:48:00Z

Do you live in an area prone to tornadoes or hurricanes? Maybe you've been considering building a storm shelter, also known as a tornado room. It's relatively easy to design a room to do double-duty as a storm shelter/storage room in a new home. But it's not easy, and might not even be possible, to retrofit a storm shelter inside an existing home. An unfinished basement is a possible location, but even that wouldn't be simple. But just about everyone has a yard and could use a garden...(read more)

Four Impressive Products from the 2012 International Builders’ Show

2012-04-09T17:02:00Z

Ron Hazelton from the 2012 International Builders' Show When they say the builders’ show has miles of aisles they’re not kidding. Even if you spend all three days hiking the show floor, it’s still hard to see everything that’s new and interesting. Here are four products, though, that did catch my eye because they really do save time and deliver great results. The Bilco Company The news here is the impressive, factory-applied powder coat finish on their classic basement...(read more)

My Best Backyard Idea Ever: Eliminate Grass Trimming

2012-04-03T19:49:00Z

Well, I can't really call it my idea. But it is the best little project I've ever done in my backyard because it saves me hours of grass trimming every summer. Here's the idea. Set a row of flat stones or pavers into the soil along fences, planters, retaining walls—any place in your backyard that normally requires trimming after mowing. Your mower can roll right over the stones and cut all the grass. No need for trimming. I used stones that were about 2 in. thick and left them about...(read more)

Setting up a New Garden: Choose the Right Site

2012-03-26T20:11:00Z

Spring has sprung, and if you're thinking about setting up a brand new garden, here are some tips to get you started on the right foot. To determine your plant choices, consider how much sun you have Spend some time watching the sun patterns in your yard. How many hours per day does the site you have in mind receive full sun? Then research the plants you intend to use and match their needs with the available sun in your yard. Veggies do best with at least six hours of full sun. If your garden...(read more)

How to Plant Grass to Fix a Bare Spot

2012-03-15T19:35:00Z

If you have bare patches in your lawn, it's a simple project to reseed them. It just takes some simple prep work and two to three weeks of everyday dedication. That's the daily watering part. And if you're unwilling to make that commitment, don't even bother. You're just wasting your time. The best times for reseeding patches are mid-spring and mid-fall. Yes, you can do it in the heat of summer, but it's tough. The heat makes it next to impossible to nurse along the seedlings...(read more)

Pergola: Add a Fabric Cover for Extra Protection

2012-03-12T22:55:00Z

A pergola is a great way to add a little shade and a sense of privacy to your patio. But the open latticework doesn't provide complete shade or any protection from rain. If you're planning to build a pergola, or want more shade or rain protection than your current pergola provides, consider adding a fabric cover. There are several choices of fabric for covering a pergola. The best way to get a sense of what's available is to search online for "pergola fabric cover." One online...(read more)

Sheds: Easy Sliding Doors

2012-03-07T15:54:00Z

For several years now, I've been in charge of designing and building our annual shed. The photo here gives you a sneak preview of the shed that will appear in our July/Aug. '12 issue. One of the details that always demands my attention is the number and type of doors to include. Several of the sheds I've designed have two doors—a regular entry door and a large door for riding lawn mowers and other big stuff. Entry doors are easy. I usually just buy a prehung exterior door like you'd...(read more)

How to Build Shelves From Dowels

2012-02-28T15:23:00Z

I needed a way to clear the clutter off my desk, so I came up with a shelving system made from dowels and scrap wood. It was inexpensive and easy to build, and it looks much better than some store-bought, plastic contraption. The design doesn't require a lot of materials: four oak boards, twelve 1/2-in. dowels, one 1/8-in. dowel and an oak 1x2. I started out using 3/4-in. divider boards, but the proportions looked a little goofy, so I ripped them down with my band saw to about 3/8 in. I think...(read more)

Bookcases: Pro Shortcut for DIY Furniture Makers

2012-02-21T19:28:00Z

The ideal bookcase has open shelves for items you want to put on display, and enclosed storage space for stuff you don't. But the trouble with enclosed spaces is that they require doors—and making doors requires extra time, tools and know-how. With many bookcases, building doors takes more time and skill than the rest of the project combined. So I'll let you in on a little secret: Lots of professional furniture makers don't make their own doors. Instead, they buy custom-made doors...(read more)

Shop Organization: Idea for a Cheap Tool Cabinet

2012-02-15T16:30:00Z

I'm an inveterate scrounger, so when I saw two used file cabinets put out for recycling; I decided to recycle them myself. I needed a larger tool cabinet for my garage shop, and I thought I could make them work. Step 1: Remove all the file hardware from the drawers, and take the drawers out. Step 2: Bolt the cabinets together. My cabinets had holes for just this purpose, but it would be easy to drill them, too. Step 3: Screw four heavy-duty casters (also scavenged) underneath Bingo! A super-strong...(read more)

Save energy and save money: Seal attic air leaks

2012-02-08T19:46:00Z

Even though this winter is milder than usual in many parts of the country, you're probably still paying more than you should to heat your house. Even if you've checked your attic insulation levels and you're sure you've got enough (a big if), you're still likely to have the equivalent of a 2-ft.-square hole in your ceiling that's acting like a chimney, drafting expensive heated air into your attic and replacing it with cold outside air, mostly from around your windows and...(read more)

Car trim: Repair your car's molding

2012-02-01T16:00:00Z

Carmakers long ago stopped using spring clips to attach car trim and molding. Instead, they use adhesive tape. The tape works well. But chemicals like wax and bug remover can destroy the tape's bond to the car trim. Once that happens, car trim and emblems can eventually fall off. If you catch the problem early, you can remove the old tape, clean up the paint and reattach the car trim or decorative molding. It's a DIY job that will cost about $25 and takes only a few hours. Here's how...(read more)

Bathroom Ideas: Offset Shower Controls

2011-12-19T20:28:00Z

Centering a shower valve right under the shower head is standard procedure. But I like to offset the valve to one side. That way, the hose from a handheld shower head won't get caught on the handles or get in your way when you're adjusting the temperature. You might have to move or bore through a stud to do an offset installation, but that's a small hassle that pays off in the long run. — Gary Wentz, Senior Editor For more information on showers, check out these links: How to Replace...(read more)

Running PEX water supply lines

2011-12-19T20:20:00Z

I recently replumbed a house with PEX. The house was sitting on a crawl space with nothing but gravel for a floor. Simply resting the PEX on the ground didn't seem like a good idea, but I was a bit mystified as to how to support the flimsy tubing as it ran from the utility room to each fixture. Then it dawned on me. Everywhere there were water supply lines running, there obviously were drain lines as well. Nice, sturdy, well-supported ABS plastic lines. So why not use those to support the PEX...(read more)

Removing Screws With Stripped Heads

2011-12-19T19:43:00Z

You did it...you stripped out the Phillips screw that holds your taillight on, and now you're kinda screwed. Here's a simple solution: Grab your favorite rotary tool and turn that Phillips head into a flat head. I use the standard grinding disc that most rotary tools come with. I suppose a cutoff tool with a thin profile would work as well. The existing hole in the screw acts as a guide. Once you get the slot started, make sure to move the tool back and forth—you don't want a slot...(read more)

Kitchen Ideas: The proper care and feeding of your garbage disposer

2011-12-02T22:18:00Z

I came home from work the other day, and there was a plumber's truck out in front of my neighbor's house. Turns out her garbage disposer had once again been the victim of poor decision-making. This time, one of her kids had dumped pasta down the disposer and they'd spent a long, frustrating day trying to clear the clog before finally calling in a pro. This made me think it might be time for a little primer on what does and does not belong in your garbage disposer. A couple of these may...(read more)

The Family Handyman: Dec./Jan. is on sale now!

2011-11-18T19:33:00Z

If you love a good mystery, you're going to want to build the beautiful bookcase of secrets in our latest issue. It's got high style, tons of space for all your books—and 10 clever hidden compartments for you to stash all your treasures. When you pick up the Dec./Jan. '12 issue at your favorite magazine retailer, you'll get this gem of a story and much more: The new lightbulb law: Are you ready? New lightbulb regulations take effect in January. To make smart choices and avoid...(read more)

Repair a portable gas heater with a new thermocouple

2011-11-18T16:02:00Z

Portable gas heaters have something in common with gas water heaters. They both depend on a thermocouple. When the thermocouple reaches a certain temperature, it signals the valve to open and let the gas flow to the burner. So if you have a gas heater that's difficult to light or the gas shuts off for no apparent reason while it's running, you most likely have a bad thermocouple. It's easy to take off various shields to access it and remove it. Take the old thermocouple to the home center...(read more)

Using MDF as cheap finished flooring

2011-11-14T20:38:00Z

Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) has a ton of useful applications, but as a finished flooring material? About five years ago, we needed a cheap "temporary" finished flooring solution in our upstairs, 1,200-sq.-ft. addition. MDF isn't as cheap as it was then, however. Now it runs about $30 per sheet. The idea was to use MDF until we could afford something better (we called it our "five-year" floor). Well, five years down the line (and no sign of new flooring in sight), here's...(read more)

Automotive fixes: Stop repeat failures on radiator fan relays

2011-11-14T16:57:00Z

Electric radiator cooling fans use a lot of juice. So carmakers use a fan relay to switch them on and off. If your radiator fan doesn't work, don't automatically assume you've got a bum fan motor. First test the fuse for the radiator fan. If it checks out, test the radiator fan relay. Here's how. Unplug the electrical connectors to the radiator fans. Then turn your A/C to the MAX position and start the engine. Use a multimeter to check for power at the unplugged fan connectors. If...(read more)

Top iPhone/iPad Home Improvement Apps for DIYers

2011-11-10T15:16:00Z

I'm one of those guys looking for any excuse to buy the latest tools and gadgets to make my workshop complete. Thanks to the computing power of smartphones and tablets, I always carry along a bunch of great electronic DIY tools right in my tool bag (or pocket). Here are some of my favorite apps for DIYers: Builder's Helper , Advanced Construction Calculator (iPhone native; also works on iPad). My Pie Interactive, $14.99. The ultimate Construction Calculator for EVERYTHING the average homeowner...(read more)

Laundry room plumbing: A recessed PVC floor drain

2011-11-01T21:23:00Z

The building code in my area calls for a floor drain in the laundry room. But the laundry room in my house is on a standard wooden floor above the crawl space, not on concrete. So here's the problem. The only floor drain you can buy is for flush mounting to the floor. And when the water softener and furnace condensate drain lines flow into the drain, there will invariably be water running onto, and ruining, the finished floor. It'll also seep under the drain and eventually rot out the subfloor...(read more)

Kitchen and bathroom ideas: Delta Touch2O Faucet is the almost perfect faucet

2011-11-01T19:39:00Z

Why can't something just be totally perfect? Must there always be a catch? These are the questions I've been asking myself in the days and weeks since I replaced my kitchen faucet with a new Touch2O faucet from Delta Faucet. (The Addison lavatory faucet is shown at right; photo courtesy of Delta Faucet.) You see, the faucet itself is perfect! Totally perfect. But there is a catch. First, let's talk about why these faucets, which are available for both kitchen and bath, are perfect. 1...(read more)

The perfect clamps for installing kitchen cabinets

2011-11-01T18:50:00Z

I've owned this pair of giant locking Vise-Grip clamps for more than 25 years, and I can't tell you how useful it is when it comes to installing kitchen cabinets . (The real name is Vise-Grip 18-in. Locking C-Clamps w/Swivel Pads.) This pair of clamps can get into areas no other pair can reach. I use them to hold cabinet stiles perfectly aligned while I drill and screw them together. Because of the clamps' deep reach, you don't even have to take off the cabinet doors when you're...(read more)

The Paslode cordless finish nailer: Compressor free!

2011-10-25T15:42:00Z

I admit to having mixed feelings when it came time to hang trim in my house. On one hand, it meant the rooms were almost finished. But it also meant weeks of lugging an air compressor around behind me, which by traditional standards weighs 300 lbs., or if you're measuring by the sounds I make when moving it, 3 tons . Historically, this is followed by at least one episode where I find myself inside a small closet with 20 ft. of air hose slowly suffocating me like an anaconda. Imagining that experience...(read more)

Bathroom ideas: The power of the shower

2011-10-25T14:34:00Z

I've done a lot of remodeling, and I'm pretty sure I'm about to share the absolute fastest and easiest home improvement project I've ever completed. The difference is amazing. On a recent trip to Indianapolis, I had the pleasure of visiting the headquarters of Delta Faucet Company. When I left, I snuck out with a showerhead, pictured to the left. (Photo courtesy of Delta Faucet.) This awesome showerhead is part of the Addison Series by Delta Faucet. The list price is $87 and it's...(read more)

The Family Handyman: The Tool Issue is on sale now!

2011-10-20T18:08:00Z

Our annual Tool Issue is on sale now. It’s got 13 feature stories, tons of tool reviews and techniques and of course, lots of great DIY projects. We’ve added new departments, too: Pro Tips , with techniques for contractors and advanced DIYers, and Best in DIY , which steers you to the best choices in products. Pick up a copy of the November issue at your favorite magazine retailer. You'll get all this and more: Best in DIY: Sliding miter saws We gave them a workout and picked our...(read more)

My favorite drill: The Makita 18v Li-ion Cordless Driver

2011-10-14T20:25:00Z

I should start with full disclosure: I willingly chose to live in my garage for a year while building a house in my spare time, so I'm not at the top of the "Most Sane People Ever" list. I’m such a tool junkie that given the chance, I would totally replace one of my limbs with a prosthetic power tool. That’s how I expect my drill to perform: as if it were physically attached to my body and able to respond to my very thoughts. In stark contrast, one of my "starter drills"...(read more)

Bobcat 3400 4x4 utility vehicle is 1,400 lbs. of fun

2011-10-11T16:14:00Z

Know what a utility vehicle is? Well, it's like a mini 4x4 pickup truck that can go just about anywhere. Bobcat loaned me one of its 3400 series for a couple of weeks, and man, I got so hooked I didn’t want to give it back. This two-seater is like a small version of a WWII Jeep, and I haven’t had that much fun since my dad sold my dirt bike back in ‘74. You step on the brake, turn the key and you’re off to the races. It goes about 30 mph in high gear and has a low-range...(read more)

Tool Storage Tip: Band Saw Blades

2011-10-04T19:49:00Z

Craving some clever tool storage ideas ? Check out this one! Band saw blade hangers If you’ve ever suffered the indignity—and possible danger to eyes and face—of a band saw blade uncoiling as you’ve pulled it off the peg you hung it on, you’ll love this tip. Nest the coiled blades into binder clips and store them on your pegboard, and they’ll never spring out at you again. Apply labels to the clips so you can simplify size selection and storage. DIY Tips If you...(read more)

Install a headlight bulb

2011-10-04T19:42:00Z

Recently a friend asked why his headlight bulbs burned out so often. He replaces the bulbs himself and each time the bulb burned out, he noticed that the glass had shattered as well. The glass surrounding a headlight bulb gets very hot during use. Oil from your hands can form a weak spot in the glass and cause it to bulge out and shatter. To eliminate the possibility of getting oil on the bulb, wear latex or nitrile gloves when you replace the capsules. Also, wipe the bulb with a clean cloth right...(read more)

How to remove rust from a table saw

2011-09-27T16:10:00Z

It’s guaranteed. One of my pals comes over to my shop and I offer him a brew. I turn my back and before I know it, there’s an ice-cold beer sitting on my cast iron table saw, sweating condensation. That means instant rust ring. But that’s not the only problem. Cast iron tables will always rust just from humidity. Then two things happen: Your wood gets marked up, and it doesn’t slide smoothly across the surface. I solve both problems with a bottle of TopSaver (made by Empire...(read more)

How to get rid of mice

2011-09-27T16:02:00Z

We never have mice in our house in the summer. Apparently the detached garage and stone patio wall are good enough for them during warm weather. But once the temperature dips into the low 60s at night, a tiny “Vacancy” sign must light up and the mice start trying to “check in" to our house for the winter. About a week ago, we noticed a little pile of fresh debris under the threshold of the back door where mice had started tunneling their way in. Sure enough, there was a new...(read more)

Kitchen ideas: How to clean a stinky garbage disposer

2011-09-24T16:12:00Z

I walked into the kitchen yesterday and a really bad smell was lurking over near the sink. That ever happen to you? One day everything’s fine and then suddenly…it’s truly not. The source of the smell wasn’t immediately obvious, so I ran through the possibilities: 12-year-old son’s wretched socks? Nope. Garbage can? Nope. A closer sniff. Garbage disposer? Yep. Got a stinky disposer? Here’s how to clean it: 1. Run cold water and drop in a few slices of orange or...(read more)

How to install doors faster

2011-09-22T16:50:00Z

I’ve been a contractor for 10 years and have installed lots of doors the traditional way. But I recently discovered this little gem: The Quick Door Hanger is a simple bracket that you screw to the doorjamb (six per door). Then you screw the bracket to the wall framing. That’s it—no fumbling with shims, no nail holes in the jamb. And if the fit isn’t quite right, just unscrew a screw or two to readjust. It’s fast and foolproof, and it costs less than $6 per door. Working...(read more)

Drywall: Which tape is best?

2011-09-13T17:56:00Z

Most drywall pros will tell you that paper tape is the only way to go. I disagree. Paper is great for skilled tapers. But for the rest of us, adhesive-backed mesh is easier. You don’t have to tool it into a bed of joint compound; just stick it to the wall, then mud over it. More important, you don’t have to worry about bubbles or ripples, wrinkles or slipping. That lets you concentrate on laying down a smooth, even coat of mud. But there are a couple of catches: First, mesh is hard to...(read more)

The Family Handyman: October is on sale now!

2011-09-13T17:50:00Z

Bathroom remodeling issue is on sale at your favorite magazine retailer now! In our October 2011 issue, which hits the newsstands today, we’ll show you how to redo your bathrooms without the hassle of a complete remodel. You can improve the storage with a brand new vanity and update the look and function with a new sink, faucet and light fixtures. And because we’re The Family Handyman, we’ll show you a few tricks to save you money and speed up the job. No bathroom remodeling on...(read more)

DIY solar power projects

2011-09-06T20:45:00Z

In researching my article about solar power for the October issue of the magazine, I’ve been running into some really interesting websites chock-full of everything you could possibly want to know about installing a photovoltaic (PV) system for your home. Obviously, powering a home with solar energy is a huge undertaking in terms of time and resources. But there are a lot of folks doing interesting things with PV systems on a much smaller scale. These smaller DIY projects can be a great way...(read more)

Drywall finishing with setting-type joint compound

2011-09-06T20:23:00Z

When finishing drywall, most DIYers stick with the ready-to-use stuff sold in buckets and shy away from the powdered stuff sold in bags. That’s often a smart choice. “Setting” compound is a hassle: You have to mix it with water, it's harder to clean up, and you don’t get one of those nifty buckets. Still, setting compound is sometimes worth the trouble. When to use it Setting compound is perfect for deep gaps before you tape the joints. It hardens fast, so you don’t...(read more)