Construction, DIY / 18.05.2018


Drywall seams will crack or separate for different reasons. A damaged foundation can cause it, as well as improper drywall finishing during construction. It could be that the sheetrock hanger didn't use enough screws or nails. If you have a foundation problem you should fix that before spending time on your drywall. A foundation issue is serious; it will cause your windows and doors to bind up and can cause roof problems. When drywall is screwed or nailed to the studs, it makes for a seam every 4 feet...

Construction, DIY / 18.05.2018


Hanging drywall, or Sheetrock as it's also called, is easier than plaster if the metal or wood framing is proper. Gypsum board is an economical wall finishing product. The history of drywall begins around 1915. The major component is the mineral gypsum, which is processed into sheets and then wrapped in paper. A variation of the basic drywall is greenboard, which is designed to be more moisture-resistant, and up until recently was the preferred backer for ceramic tile in bathrooms. Today, cement fiber backer board is preferred, and mandated...

Windows / 17.05.2018


When windows are installed, there is a gap all around the windows that allows the installer to center the window and make sure that the window is level. Before finishing the project, the gap between the windows is insulated to add R-value and air seal the edge of the window. This area is often neglected and is a major source for air infiltration. What is worse is that people fix this issue with the wrong types of products. Some of these products are designed for this application, but...

Renovations, Windows / 17.05.2018


Purchasing replacement windows for your home is the largest monetary output you will make after buying your home and car, so it's not something to be taken lightly. While homeowners often buy multiple cars and sometimes several homes during a lifetime, purchasing windows may occur only once or twice. Because this is a purchase that's going to stay with you for years to come, it's important to do your homework on what you'll be up against. Look at Samples Before You Buy Visiting a big box home improvement store, such as...

Windows / 17.05.2018


Windows are one of the most vulnerable parts of the home envelope when it comes to high speed winds. Both wind gust pressure and debris impact can cause damage. There are very good choices for preparing the home's windows during hurricane preparation. Products vying in the marketplace to provide this protection may voluntarily undergo an impact test. A wind speed of at least 110 MPH is considered the minimum standard to meet. The industry-accepted testing standard is the Miami-Dade County hurricane impact test. Following are some methods of protecting...

DIY, Renovations / 17.05.2018


Cracks in brick siding make a home look unkempt. Learn what causes cracks above windows and doors and prevent this type of cracking. Cracks that sprawl between the mortar joints on a brick wall are not an uncommon site. You can often see a stair step appearance where new mortar has been added to compensate for the settling of a building and to keep the structural integrity of the building intact. However, new homes often have cracks that form on the corners of the windows and doors only and...

Windows / 17.05.2018


Repairing broken windows is an unfortunate reality of home ownership. For those of you with single-pane windows, the process of replacing the broken pane is pretty straightforward. If you are dealing with a large piece of glass, larger than you can handle comfortably, it is better to let a professional do the job rather than struggle to do it yourself. Glass can be dangerous, so use common sense when deciding what you can and can’t repair. Tools and Materials For Repairing Windows Glass repairs require heavy-duty gloves and protective goggles....

DIY, Safety / 16.05.2018


When planning a home improvement project, don't forget to familiarize yourself with building codes and guidelines. Doing your homework will keep you safe and save money. If you have a home do-it-yourself project in mind, it's important to consider the law when planning your work. The National Electrical Code written by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) has guidelines that will help insure a safe and legal electrical repair or update. Examples of Code Restrictions Receptacles and Switches Fire Prevention Code limits the number of wires under each screw in a receptacle...

Painting, Renovations / 16.05.2018


A painting project in your home is not just about brushes and rollers, masking tape and spill rags. Take the time to learn about painting safety so that you and all others around you will remain safe during the job. You're not properly prepared in home safety as a DIY until you do. Safety rules for safe work practices are in place because employers have learned what can happen from actual occurrences. With the proper information, you can be just as safe working on these projects at home. PPE (Personal...