Do It Yourself!
By Michael on Mar 7, 2008 in Doors, Renovation, Wood | 0 Comments
There are several possible reasons why a door might bind. The screws may no longer hold the hinges securely, one or both hinges may be set in a mortise that’s too deep or too shallow, the door itself may have warped, or the jambs may go out of square as the house settles. The problem [...]
By Michael on Mar 7, 2008 in Doors, Fence, Wood | 0 Comments
Wood shrinks, joints open and fasteners loosen. What to do? An adjustable turnbuckle brace, available in rod or cable form, will square up the gate and permit future adjustments. Kits that include all necessary hardware and instructions are widely available but you can also make your own setup from standard hardware. Use steel cable for [...]
By Michael on Nov 4, 2007 in Decks & Patios, Doors, Flooring, Kitchen, Materials & Tools, Siding, Walls, Wood | 1 Comment
Why Wood Decays
The fungi that destroy wood have simple needs: Air, water, moderate temperatures, and not too much sunlight, thank you. Whenever the moisture content of the wood in your home is greater than 19 percent (it feels damp to the touch), ever-present fungal spores begin to grow. As the wood dries out, the fungi [...]
By Michael on Nov 2, 2007 in Doors, Renovation, Security | 0 Comments
Solid-core doors are quite heavy, and you can strain your back moving them around. Always try to have them resting on something other than your body.
Most door hinges have removable pins. That means you don’t have to remove the hinge screws just to get the door off. To remove a door, close it and [...]
By Michael on Oct 30, 2007 in Doors, Energy-saving, Flooring, Heating, Kitchen, Plumbing, Renovation, Security, Windows | 0 Comments
Attic - look for evidence of roof leaks, also openings that permit entry of bats or other pests. Inspect insulation, rafters, ventilation openings, chimney and side walls.
Basement windows - those on grade or slightly above grade, should be examined for decayed frames. replace decayed frames and missing trim.
Bathroom - check for dripping faucets, leaking shower [...]
By Michael on Oct 24, 2007 in Bathroom, Carpet, Contractors, Cooling, Design, Doors, Flooring, Heating, Home Decor, Kitchen, Landscaping, Painting, Plumbing, Renovation, Roofing, Security, Siding, Windows | 2 Comments
1. For return on investment, the best home renovation is to upgrade an old bathroom. Kitchens come in second. If the only reason for renovating a house is to increase the possible sale price, the best way is to go with renovations that research shows return more than the cost to renovate. Adding extensions and [...]
By Michael on Oct 23, 2007 in Bathroom, Carpet, Contractors, Cooling, Design, Doors, Flooring, Heating, Home Decor, Kitchen, Landscaping, Painting, Plumbing, Renovation, Roofing, Security, Siding, Windows | 1 Comment
Top 4 tips you need to know before even thinking of renovating your home.
1. Do it now
If you’re looking to remodel this year, now is a good time. You may even be able to get your contractor on the phone… on the first try!
The remodeling market has slowed down and contractors may not be as [...]
