Thursday, January 31, 2019

4 Ways to Upcycle Your Fish Tank - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

4 Ways to Upcycle Your Fish Tank
An old fish tank doesn’t have to be an eyesore in your home. You can upcycle it into many things, such as furniture.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2GebqwS

Why You Need a Vented Range Hood - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Kitchen range hood vented outside.
Watch this video to find out about the importance of having and using a kitchen range hood that’s vented to the outside to take heat, moisture, and pollutants from cooking out of your home.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2WwPVNv

How to Prevent Heat Loss and Gain in Your Home - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

filling crack in brick with insulation
Up to 40% of the heat loss or gain in a home is due to leaks in the thermal envelope surrounding the living space. To save energy, make sure the attic has plenty of insulation, and fill any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, plumbing pipes, and HVAC lines. Installing foam gaskets behind switch and outlet covers is another good way to reduce air infiltration in your home.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2t0grkS

When to Water Plants Before a Freeze - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Branch with ice on it.
Carol asks, “A hard freeze is in my weather forecast. What are your recommendations about watering trees and shrubs in cold weather?”

In winter, the dry conditions can be more damaging than the cold itself. Learn how to water your plants properly here.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2HIRYuH

5 Ways to Protect Koi Fish During Freezing Weather - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

5 Ways to Protect Koi Fish During Freezing Weather
Brett asks, “During this latest cold snap, my koi fish pond has threatened to freeze over. What should I do?”

Ice by itself is not dangerous to koi. The danger is the reduced oxygen and increased toxic gases from the sealed water surface. Read on for more.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2WqpJUG

How to Prevent Hose Bibbs from Freezing - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Installing an insulated foam hose bib cover on an outdoor spigot.
Watch this video to find out how to protect the outdoor spigots on your home from freezing by installing insulated hose bibb covers.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2G1rYcf

How to Protect Your Home During Extreme Cold Weather - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

House surrounded by snow
Extreme cold weather — brrr! — can be hard on your home. Follow these tips when freezing weather, snow and ice hit your area.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2Chlgx3

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

How to Make a Picnic Table Drink Trough - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Completed picnic table drink trough full of drinks.
Adding a drink trough to your picnic table is a great way to have everyone’s favorite beverages on hand for outdoor entertaining. Watch this video to find out more.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2UwUKVn

10 Tips for Safer Winter Generator Use - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

10 Tips for Safer Winter Generator Use
A standby generator comes in handy when the power goes out, but it's important to follow these safety tips when using one.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2CUDHoS

7 Ways to Incorporate Vintage Decor in Your Modern Lifestyle - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

7 Ways to Incorporate Vintage Decor in Your Modern Lifestyle
Thinking outside the box will help you find ways to incorporate vintage décor throughout yo

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2DLjyU9

7 Things to Consider Before Moving - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

7 Things to Consider Before Moving
Moving marks a new chapter in a homeowner's life, but before you decide to take the plunge, take time to examine your goals and motives.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2UschOw

10 Do’s and Don’ts to Keep Your Wood-Burning Fireplace Safe - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

10 Do's and Don'ts to Keep Your Wood-Burning Fireplace Safe
Light a fire for warmth and ambiance, but follow these tips to stay safe.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2UuaIQ1

Sunday, January 27, 2019

This Ceiling Fan is Fast to Install - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

This Ceiling Fan is Fast to Install
Tired of complicated ceiling fan installations? This fan's blades click into place and the LED light twists in for a simple setup.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2B2r7DN

How to Correct a Crooked Board - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Correct a Crooked Board
Here's what to do when a board has two crooked edges.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2MHo493

Friday, January 25, 2019

How to Create a Wood Accent Wall - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Create a Wood Accent Wall
A wood accent wall that looks like exposed siding creates an interesting focal point in any room in your home.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2xYFE2A

Recommended Temperatures for Painting Your House - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Man on ladder painting house exterior
Is it too cold to paint your home's exterior? Here's Danny's rule of thumb.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2Tdtv1O

Furniture Stuffing Guide: Upholstery Foam, Batting and Animal Hair - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Furniture Stuffing Guide: Upholstery Foam, Batting and Animal Hair
Upholstery projects have the ability to transform tired, worn-looking spaces, especially when care is given to the selection of colors, fabric patterns, and the style you're trying to achieve. However, the most important part of any upholstered item is what you don’t see. Read on to find out more.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2G0FYSL

Thursday, January 24, 2019

DIY Mobile Drill Press Stand

6 Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

6 Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them
You won’t know when, and you won’t know how, but you can expect these plumbing issues at some point.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2CJ9NUp

How to Smooth Joint Compound with Less Mess! - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Smooth Joint Compound with Less Mess!
Need to smooth joint compound? There's a neater alternative to sandpaper.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2R8mKwt

Comparing Vacuum Cleaners, Steam Mops and Steam Cleaners - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Comparing Vacuum Cleaners, Steam Mops and Steam Cleaners
Cleaning your home is an everyday activity, and new appliances are making the process easier and more effective. Here, we will look at three top cleaning appliances and tell you everything you need to know about each of them. Vacuum Cleaner A vacuum cleaner collects small particles such as dust from surfaces. It creates suction […]

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2CGN3EJ

Ryobi’s Brushless Drywall Screw Gun Won’t Wear You Out - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Ryobi's Brushless Drywall Screw Gun Won't Wear You Out
Ryobi Power Tools’ brushless drywall screw gun makes projects go a lot faster and it requires less of your energy!

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2sMdK6p

Do It! How to Build Locker-Style Storage - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Do It! How to Build Locker-Style Storage
Locker-style storage provides a place for everything in your garage. Here's how to build a set.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2Mw4Cvw

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

How to Hang Pictures Right the First Time - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Painting hung over mantel
Framed paintings and photographs add a splash of color to a room and give it a unique personal touch, but some homeowners are reluctant to tackle the job for fear their walls will end up resembling aged Swiss cheese. With the right hardware and know-how, you can approach your next picture hanging project with confidence.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2WfvJzp

How to Make a Punching Bag from Recycled Materials - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Duct tape punching bag
This homemade punching bag for your kids is a eco-friendly project, since it was made from recycled materials. It's easy to make and can provide them with hours of fun and exercise.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2WgfpPh

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

8 Tips to Lower Your Heating Bill - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

House in the snow
Climbing heating bills are a concern this time of year. Here are some tips to reduce yours!

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2sIm9rA

How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing — and Thaw Frozen Pipes - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Cut-off valve on copper pipe
Winter has arrived, and that means bundling up trying to keep warm. The pipes on your house need protection from the cold as well. Read on to find out how to prevent your pipes from freezing and some tips on how to thaw them out safely if they do.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2FSY1KD

Monday, January 21, 2019

10 DIY Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

10 DIY Projects to Increase Your Home's Value
If you're thinking about selling your home now or in the future, there are several, easy home improvement projects you can do yourself, or with the help of a friend. Here are 10 interior and exterior DIY projects that can increase your home's value.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2yky404

January Lawn & Garden To-Do List - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Pansies blooming
While your garden waits out the winter, there’s still plenty to do as the weather cooperates. Check our January Lawn and Garden To-Do List!

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2R1vBzS

Saturday, January 19, 2019

Converting a Basement, Attic, or Garage into Living Space - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

converting an attic or basement
While converting an unused basement, attic, or garage into additional living space is a popular option, careful planning is needed to prevent potential problems. If you take these unique planning and design aspects into consideration, your conversion will be a success.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2RzM6s5

How to Sharpen A Chainsaw - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Sharpen A Chainsaw
A chainsaw with a sharp blade is faster and much safer to use than one with a dull blade that just bucks through wood. Here's how to sharpen a chainsaw in 4 easy steps.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2DmCtnS

Packaged Thermal Air Conditioners: Not Just for Hotels - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Packaged Thermal Air Conditioners: Not Just for Hotels
Packaged thermal air conditioners are often seen in hotels, but homeowners can use them, too.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2sADVNa

Thursday, January 17, 2019

How to Add Window Case Molding - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Window case molding
Want to inexpensively upgrade interior trim? Add window casings! Here's how in 5 easy steps.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2Ct7kxk

How to Put a Comforter Inside a Duvet Cover - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Joe Truini demonstrating his trick for putting a duvet cover on a comforter.
Watch this video for a simple trick that makes putting a duvet cover on a comforter easy.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2RxiGuC

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

How to Remove Stains from Wood Floors - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Stain on wood flooring
Stains that have penetrated through the finish can be hard to remove from wood floors without sanding, but there are several options you might want to try first. Watch this video to find out more.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2FEXf12

How to Unclog a Sink Drain Fast - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Using a plunger to unclog a kitchen sink.
Watch this video for tips on how to unclog bathroom or kitchen sink drains in no time using a drain snake or a plunger.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2QOxi3D

Introducing Hygge, the Cozy Design Trend - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Introducing Hygge, the Cozy Design Trend
Hygge, a Scandinavian lifestyle and design trend, centers on comfort and coziness.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2MdZHzk

Help for Startups: How to Create a Home Office - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Help for Startups: How to Create a Home Office
Many people seeking balance between their work and personal life set up a home office. Others create this space out of necessity. Home offices — essential for telecommuters and home-based business owners — are vital in cutting down rent and creating space to work on projects. Then there are startups; we’ve all heard of so […]

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2FDIVsa

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Kitchen Renovation (Part 1) - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Kitchen Renovation (Part 1)
Whit and Andrea's home no longer meets their family's needs, so Danny and Chelsea show them how to customize their space.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2ROypET

How to Prepare Your Home Inventory List for Insurance - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Prepare Your Home Inventory List for Insurance
If your home was destroyed by fire or vandalized by theft, could you recreate from memory a list of all your possessions including purchase date, cost, serial number and model number? A detailed list of damaged or destroyed possessions is required for all insurance claims. If you don't have a home inventory, read on to find out how to prepare one.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2VUpmBK

This Reciprocating Saw Offers More Power, Less Mess - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

This Reciprocating Saw Offers More Power, Less Mess
Expect more power and longer battery life from this reciprocating saw. Jodi Marks also likes a feature that keeps your wood clean!

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2HeGFu1

Trimming Trees? Do This to Extend Your Reach 5 Feet - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Trimming Trees? Do This to Extend Your Reach 5 Feet
Here's how you can modify a pair of bypass loppers and trim high, hard-to-reach tree branches.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2RNYMe5

How to Hang Sliding Doors - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Hang Sliding Doors
Sliding door hardware can be used on almost any style of door. Here's how to install these popular "barn" doors.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2HeGvTr

Monday, January 14, 2019

How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Home - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

Ice on a home roof
If you’re fortunate enough to live in the Sunbelt or some other balmy region, chances are you’ve never heard of—or at least experienced—ice dams. I, on the other hand, live in New England, so every winter ice dams are as common—and as welcoming—as frostbite and sub-zero temperatures. Here's how to prevent damage to your home.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2AMdZCZ

How to Clean Out a Tub Drain - Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner

How to Clean Out a Tub Drain
A slow or clogged tub drain can turn your bath or shower into a less than idyllic experience. Fortunately, it’s usually simple to fix. Watch this video to find out how.

from Home Improvement – Today's Homeowner http://bit.ly/2VSL88U

Thursday, January 10, 2019

Bright Lights and Cordless Grease Guns – Check out some new tools for 2019!

The cordless tool industry is absolutely blowing my mind these days. All the big name manufacturers are dipping into speciality markets and releasing some very specific solutions for specific problems we all deal with. At the same time, these manufacturers are ensuring battery compatibility throughout their product lines. This affords the end user the advantage of “buy once – cry once” with regard to batteries, then enjoy the endless compatibility up and down list of cool tools. The tools I’, sharing with you today address two very common issues, poor lighting and clumsy grease guns. Check it out:

To brighten up a dark work area you need not look any further than Milwaukee’s new 1400 lumen, free standing work light. This thing is awesome!…no lie. It’s proven itself to be super valuable around my shop, especially while welding up those Grenade Stools I sell online. I can put the light source exactly where I need it and since it weighs in at a whopping 6.7 lbs, it’s pretty easy to maneuver around.

The light is loaded with cool technology such as a telescoping base that collapses down to 31” or stretches out to 68”. There is a mid point stop at about 50” high which does come in handy. However, I really would like to see a friction collar in the telescoping shaft though….this would allow the user to set the height anywhere they please within the upper and lower limits, much like a I.V. bag stand found in the medical industry or even a basic microphone stand.

The lamp head is suuuuper bright! If you happen to glance at it while standing up from your work area you may see spots for a moment lol. In addition to being very bright, it also swivels – 210 degrees on the horizontal axis, and 270 on the vertical.

As you can see, this light packs away tightly and is beyond versatile. Milwaukee configured the battery input to accept either of their M12 series batteries. The smaller 2.0Ah battery fits perfectly into the battery input well with plenty of room for your fingers to depress the snap fit closure. It may have been that my 3.0Ah M12’s were new, but I found the larger battery pretty tight within the same space and a bit more challenging to remove. Getting my fingers in to depress the snap closure is a bit more difficult due to the “blocky” shape of the battery. I don’t think the light looses major points here but it’s worth sharing in case a designer happens to come across this review : ) Be that as it may, this light also gives you the option of running straight-up 120VAC input! That’s right, you can run an extension chord straight to it and let your light shine ’till your heart’s content….no battery required : )

Greasing up the tractor has been the latest project to leverage the light from this free standing lamp. Some of the grease zerks are buried pretty deep in rather dark spots which were no match for this lamp. The grease gun I’ve been leaning on lately is a cordless model from DeWalt. It may be worth pausing for dramatic effect here……I said cordless grease gun yall!

Seriously, I don’t know how may of you guys or gals have suffered from intense arm pump due to pumping a grease gun till the cows come home but it’s a sensation I’m not terribly fond of. This cordless unit from DeWalt runs on any of their 20-volt Lithium batteries and basically affords you the opportunity to free up a hand while filling your grease fittings. For some, this may sound trivial but the experienced hand will understand fully how valuable it is to simply stab the grease gun to the zerk fitting, squeeze the variable speed button on the pump, and start pumping 5 ounces per minute into your pivot point or U-joint fitting.

The hose on this space age gem is 42 inches long and features coil spring reinforcements at the gun and the nozzle ends which help to prevent kinking and provide strain relief at either end of the hose. The electric pump features a pre-filter to prevent dirt contaminating the pump mechanism, a simple bleeder valve to release air following a cartridge change, and will deliver up to 10,000psi of line pressure which helps to blast through clogged grease fittings.

So far I’ve had zero issues out of the hose fitting coming off of the grease zerk which is a common problem with a lot of manual grease guns. Not to say this unit is safe from popping off, but it hasn’t happened to me yet.

Again I feel like these two tools are a testament to how far the technology has come in the cordless tool market. If you have a tool issue, chances are you’ll find a unique solution on the shelf from one of the major players out there.

Thanks for stopping in to learn a bit more about these handy tools. All of this gear is available through The Home Depot. This article is actually sponsored by them through their ProSpective campaign which involves paid content creators, like me and several others, who provide feedback, exposure, and reviews of current projects available to the market. Some of the links above are affiliate links and provide a small kickback for any sales associated with them. In a way, it helps to keep the entire machine running. Thanks so much for your support and stay safe out there!

Cheers – April

 

The post Bright Lights and Cordless Grease Guns – Check out some new tools for 2019! appeared first on Wilker Do's.



from Wilker Do's http://bit.ly/2RpfD7F

How Covid-19 Affects the Housing Market in College Towns

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to major lifestyle changes. That could significantly impact the housing market in college towns, according to ...