Dear James: Our last house had drainage problems after storms. When we select a lot to build our new house, what steps should be taken to evaluate possible drainage issues?—Jessica R. Dear Jessica: When selecting a lot for a new house, most people think poor drainage can just make the yard muddy or harm landscaping….
Picking the Right Blade for Your Power Saw
Dear James: I just got out my power saws for a remodeling project and the blades are shot. What types of new blades are best for general work with circular and table saws? —Aaron M. Dear Aaron: Those two saws, along with a compound miter saw, are pretty indispensable for most remodeling projects. If an…
Organize a Messy Room With Simple, Inexpensive Shelving
Dear James: Our extra bedroom has just become a junk room with stuff piled all over the place. I would like to organize it with some shelves. How can I make some inexpensive shelving? —Alan D. Dear Alan: I think any family that has an unused bedroom ends up using it for storage. It is…
How to Apply Stain and Topcoat Finish on Wood Trim
Dear James: Our church has some beautiful old decorative woodwork that needs some repairs and to be refinished. What is the best way to retain the original appearance?—Karen L. Dear Karen: It is possible to bring old woodwork back to nearly its original appearance, but don’t expect to duplicate it perfectly. This will probably require…
Simple Tips for Repairing and Maintaining Your Clothes Washer
Dear James: My clothes washer leaks a little when in the drain and spin cycles. What things should I check to locate and repair the water leak? What are some maintenance tips?—Teddy L. Dear Teddy: It is good that you noticed the leak before it got too bad. Generally, people just load the clothes in…
Remove and Replace Drywall Tape Over Joints
Dear James: The drywall tape is coming loose on the walls and in the corners, so I pulled it off. What is the correct method to retape the corners so that it stays on longer? —Pamela D. Dear Pamela: If you have ever watched a professional tape drywall, it looks easy with little sanding needed….
How to Assemble a First-Aid Kit for DIYers
Dear James: I have worked with hand and power tools for years, but recently hurt myself with no one around. What things should I include in a first-aid kit for my toolshed?—Isaac L. Dear Isaac: It definitely is a good idea to have a complete first-aid kit readily available, even if you are not alone…
Connect 2 Rooms With a New Door
Dear James: My living room is adjacent to the children’s bedroom. I would like to add a door between the two rooms. How can I open and frame the new door opening?—Carla T. Dear Carla: Adding an additional opening between rooms is a relatively easy and popular project. By installing the proper type of door,…
Air Power Tools Need the Correct Hose Type
Dear James: I bought an air compressor because I think pneumatic tools are better than electric tools. Now I need a long hose. What type of pneumatic hose is good for tools?—Juan K. Dear Juan: For many home projects, pneumatic tools are better than electric or battery-powered ones. Electric tools, and particularly battery-powered tools, are…
Repair Shower Stall Membrane to Repair a Leak
Dear James: A dark spot is forming on the ceiling below my master bathroom with a tile floor. My newer house is just past the warranty. Where should I look for the water leak? —Amy F. Dear Amy: It seems like problems always occur just after the new house warranty expires. The basic plumbing is…
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