We finally replaced our old open element range with a new Whirlpool smooth ceramic top stove model. We immediately discovered that if you spill anything on it at all that you get some really stubborn stains. The recommended product that came with the range would barely even do anything at all. So, [...]
Repairing a run on Toilet is an EASY do it yourself fix!
This is what you see when you look down into your typical toilet tank. The yellow thing at top left is the flush valve also known as a “ballcock”. The gray thing in the middle is the flapper valve. By the [...]
If you’re patient, you can make a professional quality drywall repair.
Taping and Finishing Techniques:
You only need to learn two very simple techniques in order to learn how to mud and tape drywall. For either technique the knife blade is held to the drywall at an angle, and the knife is moved in the direction [...]
If your electric clothes dryer runs but doesn’t get warm then you probably need a new heating element.
This is an Amana brand dryer. Apparently all Amana and Speed Queen dryers use the exact same parts and repair proceedure. I would consider this a very simple clothes dryer repair that is well within the [...]
Improving or updating your home - whether it is an addition, updating a kitchen or bath, or finishing the basement - improves your quality of life and increases the resale value of your home. These kinds of projects can cost tens of thousands of dollars, but there are several financing options available. To choose [...]
Full Disclosure - I’m a general contractor. I’ve worked in both the custom and speculative markets for clients and for myself. This article is based mostly upon my opinions and experience, but it also reflects a consensus from within my community. If you don’t get anything else from it just remember one thing [...]
Define your Goals
Write down the ways in which your home does not currently meet your
needs. Don’t worry about the design or budget of the project at this
point. That will come later. Just write down the issues you are trying
to resolve. Aside from what you need, also include anything that you just simply want. This [...]
110/220 or 120/240?
110 volt and 220 volt designations are old familiar terminology, but are no longer commonly used in either product design or by electric utilities. The 115 volt and 230 volt terminology comes from equipment design standards. Equipment is usually designed to operate at 115 or 230 volts with a plus or minus [...]
Home Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your home in top shape, preserving its value, and preventing problems like wet basements. Home maintenance begins when the home is brand new and continues forever. Therefore, it is best to make regular maintenance a habit from the very beginning. In addition to normal maintenance, [...]