When working on a home improvement project that requires screws and screwdrivers, make sure you have the right equipment. Different screws have different applications, and their heads have different sizes and configurations. Match the tool to the fastener.
Treated lumber is perfect for outdoor home improvement projects and kits of pre-cut lumber for decks, patios, furniture and play sets are available that make assembly easy and with minimal waste.
Copper tubing for plumbing is 5/8” in diameter, and is available in two thicknesses: M and L. M is the thinner of the two and is acceptable for interior applications well-removed from the chance of freezing. If there's even a remote possibility that the water in the pipes could freeze, choose L.
Removing faucets and sinks goes much faster and is easier to do when you use a basin wrench. This odd-looking cousin to slip joint pliers is designed for the tight spaces and odd configurations of faucet-to-basin connections.
A decorative paving stone curb will deliver the perfect finishing touch to your swimming pool. Not only does it help to define its boundaries, it will keep grass from encroaching on the decking area.
FYI: Drywall and sheetrock are the same product. Drywall is plaster made from gypsum (with a few additives and then processed) sandwiched between two layers of paper. Sheetrock is a brand name for the product.
Are you putting your home up for sale? One of the best ways to increase its value is to make improvements to the kitchen and bathroom. Not only will they make your home more appealing, they deliver an exceptional ROI.
When buying brick for outdoor or exterior use, select SW (severe weather) or MW (moderate weather) materials. Those with an NW rating (no weather) are for interior use only.
If you have a large expanse of yard in which you'd like some texture, consider building stone walls in strategic locations. Not only will they define areas, they will provide additional seating.
Replace the filters in your HVAC system according to the recommendations of the manufacturer. A clogged filter impedes airflow, decreases efficiency, and shortens the life of the unit.
When all things are equal (quality of materials, surface preparation, condition of siding, etc.), paint provides longer protection for siding than stain does. When properly applied, paint can last for seven to nine years.
Make sure that your roof is properly insulated as a lack of it can lead to extremes of heat and cold over the course of a year and wreak havoc on the structure of the roof.
If you will be using latex paint for the exterior of your home, there are temperature restrictions. As they rise, drying times shorten, which can lead to lap marks. If temps are less than 50⁰ F, additives are needed to keep the paint workable.
Regularly inspect the caulk and grout around windows and doors, sinks, tubs, and shower stalls. If it is moldy or damaged, it needs to be removed and replaced.
Inspect your roof regularly. If you can see it from the ground, look for popped nails and broken, curled or missing shingles. If you must use a ladder, make sure to have someone to hold it in place when you climb up.
Inspect your driveway for cracks and other signs of damage. Concrete driveways should be cleaned and cracks repaired using an epoxy patching material. Asphalt driveways require an asphalt patching material and should be sealed every two years.
Move your mancave outdoors with a handsome, well-designed, fully equipped, outdoor cooking patio. Let's talk about your ideas and what you'd like to include and then we'll take things from there.
Installing new shutters? Vinyl coated shutters have the light weight and durability of wood but they need less maintenance – especially painting. Simply spray them off periodically to remove loose dirt and dust.
If you have a multi-story residence, you can add to its appeal, and your personal enjoyment, by adding a balcony. We can also install access doors that match your home's architectural style.
After storms, check your roof for signs of damage or call your insurance agent. If roofing repairs are in order, we can take care of the project, whether it’s just to patch a bad spot, replace a few shingles, or completely replace the roofing system.
When planning a bathroom renovation, don't shirk on the fixtures. They receive more use than any other item so they must be durable as well as look good.
If you're concerned about security, many models of storm doors and windows are fitted with protective grills. To hide their utilitarian nature, they are available in a number of decorative designs, colors, and materials.
