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Grout Sealant - Cleaning ceramic tile grout can be a messy and difficult job. This is especially true if the grout has never been sealed. Stains from mold, food and beverages, and foot traffic can make your grout look old and dirty way before it's time.
Start with something simple, like vinegar or baking soda. Dilute the vinegar with an equal amount of clean water. Baking soda is mixed with water to create a paste. Apply the homemade cleaner and scrub in small circles with a nylon brush. Rinse with water and dry with a sponge or paper towels. |
If your grout is still stained, the next thing to
try would be commercial tile and grout cleaners. These are
available where home cleaning products are sold. Start with a mild
cleaner instead of jumping right to a harsh one. To get the best result from
a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes
before scrubbing. Follow the directions on the label to
clean effectively and prevent discoloration.
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Buy Paint - All house paints are either water based latex or oil based. Latex is the most commonly sold paint today. It covers well, cleanup with water is fast and easy, and it is durable.
|
Water based latex paints offer significant performance advantages. Compared to oil based paints, top quality exterior latex paints have greater durability, color retention, and chalk resistance, so they continue to look good for years. Since they are less brittle and more elastic than oil based paints, they have better resistance to cracking. Latex paints also dry much faster than oil based paints, which allows for a quicker second coat. When compared with other latex paints, those with 100% acrylic binders are especially durable and highly flexible. They tend to adhere extremely well to a variety of exterior surfaces, and have greater resistance to troublesome paint failures like blistering, flaking and peeling. |
|
Tin Ceiling Tile - Planning and good layout are the most important parts of a successful ceiling tile job. Once everything is laid out, the project should go smoothly. And it's also one of those tasks that adds a lot of appeal to your home. |
Selecting the Tiles
Most ceiling tiles are made of fiberboard. Standard
tiles measure 12" by 12", although tiles are also made in 12" by 24"
and other sizes. Acoustical tiles are made from the same type of fiber
with an additional manufacturing process to help absorb sound in a
room. A well designed acoustical tile absorbs up to 70 percent of
excess noise.
Ask the supplier to help estimate the materials you
need for installation. Most manufacturers provide charts to determine
the number of tiles, the amount of furring, and the gallons of
adhesive needed (if adhesive is used) based on the room size. Tiles
are typically packed as follows: 12" by 12" ceiling tiles in cartons
of 40, 12" by 24" are packed 20 to a carton.
Ceiling Tile Installation Methods
The most common methods of ceiling tile application
are adhesives, stapled or nailed to wood furring strips, or a metal
grid suspended from the overhead floor joists. For ceilings made of
plaster, sheetrock, or other materials that provides a smooth,
continuous backing, use adhesives to apply the ceiling tiles. If the
ceiling has cracked plaster or other defects, apply furring strips and
nail or staple the tiles to the furring strips.
Basic Rules
-
All cut tiles should be used for the edges of the room
where the ceiling meets the walls.
-
Cut tiles at opposite ends of the room should be the
same size.
-
If at all possible, cut tiles should not be less than
half a tile wide.
Determine the Size of Border Tiles
Measure the distance from wall to wall on the longer
side of the room. If the length measures exact feet, you will not need
to cut border tiles for that direction. If the distance does not come
out in exact feet, add 12 to the number of inches remaining and divide
by two. This gives you the width of your border tiles. For example, if
the room is 10′ 6" long, add 12 to 6 (18) and divide 18 by 2. The
result of 9" is the width of the border tiles for each end of the run.
Do the same thing for the shorter side of the room. Confused? Here is
the result of the calculations:
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House Design Plan - Building your home is a very tall order. You will have to deal with a lot of problems, and quite a few of these cannot be foreseen or planned for in advance. It will take time, determination, and a lot of patience. Even if you hire a general contractor instead of doing everything yourself, there will still be a lot you have to consider.
Dealing with local building inspectors can be absolutely maddening. Talk about bureaucratic lunacy, you haven't seen anything until these goofs show up at your construction site. Depending on the inspector's level of competence (or incompetence), they will find all kinds of things to complain about. Some may be justified, but all too often the items they are refusing to pass are due to an over inflated ego on their part. And politics play into this unfortunate ordeal. If you don't build houses for a living, inspectors tend to think you don't know what you're doing. |
Don't count on anybody to do their job right. Just because an architect has
a nice office and a good reputation doesn't mean the drawings will be
done properly. The contractor that comes highly recommended might end
up ripping you off with shoddy work. You absolutely must stay on top
of the entire home building project to prevent losing
money or getting a house that you hate. It's amazing how many
contractors can't even read a simple set of blueprints. And don't let
them talk you into changing something unless you really want the
change. In some cases, the contractor is simply trying to swap cheaper
materials to increase the profit margin.
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How To Install Metal Roof - Most people pay very little attention to the roof on their home. Since it has no moving parts to wear out, there doesn’t seem to be anything that needs attention. But that’s not true. Your roof is the first line of defense against sun, wind, rain, snow, hail, and a host of other assaults. Blocked gutters can allow water to get under the roofing shingles, damaging the underlayment. |
Your roof must be inspected periodically to ensure minor problems are
corrected before real damage sets in. If the pitch of your roof is
low, and you are comfortable (and confident) walking around on it, you
can perform your own inspection and make small repairs yourself.
Otherwise, hire someone to do this for you. Be careful - a fall, even
from a single story house, can be fatal.
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House Floor Plan - Before ordering a set of house plans, you need a clear picture of what you want. Two story or one? Attached garage? How many beds and baths? Large family room? Take a tour of homes, read books and magazines. Make a list of "must-haves" and "would like to haves". Look at floor plans. Start a notebook with information and notes on all the details you want to include.
This also might be the time to weigh hiring a building professional, under a management contract, to help you. This person would cost less than a general contractor, and could walk you through parts of the project where you feel inexperienced. |
As the manager, your biggest responsibility is hiring the
subcontractors who will do the work. Do you know someone that recently
had work performed on their house? Who did they use? Was it done on
time and within budget? Would they use them again.
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|
Paint Stores - All house paints are either water based latex or oil based. Latex is the most commonly sold paint today. It covers well, cleanup with water is fast and easy, and it is durable.
|
Water based latex paints offer significant performance advantages. Compared to oil based paints, top quality exterior latex paints have greater durability, color retention, and chalk resistance, so they continue to look good for years. Since they are less brittle and more elastic than oil based paints, they have better resistance to cracking. Latex paints also dry much faster than oil based paints, which allows for a quicker second coat. When compared with other latex paints, those with 100% acrylic binders are especially durable and highly flexible. They tend to adhere extremely well to a variety of exterior surfaces, and have greater resistance to troublesome paint failures like blistering, flaking and peeling. |
Art Deco Bathroom Tile - Here’s a procedure to help with layout and installation of ceramic bathroom tiles. As with all projects, good planning and preparation are the keys to success. Be sure to repair all high and low spots on the surfaces to be tiled. Take your time and get this part right. You’ll be pleased with the professional looking results. Horizontal Layout Lines First, determine if your tub or shower drain pan are level. Then draw the horizontal working lines. Be sure they are straight, level, and easy to see. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Garage Door Part - Most doors are sold as pre-hung units, where the door is already installed into a jamb. These are easier to install and align than trying to get a new door to fit into an old frame. |
Brick homes are especially prone to having jambs that cannot be
removed. For some reason, there are builders that will install the
doors, then apply brick right over the outer part of the door frame.
In this case, removal would require the jambs be broken apart in small
sections for removal, and the new frame would have to be modified in
order to fit.
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Italian Tile - Before starting your ceramic tile project, do some research into the different types and styles that are available. Visit your local home supply store and ask questions. Get brochures and see what types of adhesive and substrate are needed. Do you have the necessary tools? If not, weigh purchase vs renting what you need.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
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Empire Carpet - Carpets are made by pulling loops of synthetic or wool yarn through a tough backing. These loops are often cut to create the carpet's pile. The most durable synthetic carpeting material is nylon. It wears well and is quite stain resistant. Other synthetic materials are olefin, polyester, and acrylic. Wool has the most pleasant and natural texture, and is also the most expensive. The fibers used have a dramatic impact on a carpet's look and performance. |
The list of synthetic fibers can be confusing
because manufacturers often call them by proprietary names. Still, all
synthetics fall into four generic categories: nylon, olefin, acrylic,
and polyester.
Nylon - The majority of carpet fibers are made of nylon. Nylon fibers are resilient, survive the weight of furniture, and hold up well in heavily trafficked areas.
Nylon is available in a vast array of colors, and solution-dyed types
are colorfast. Nylon carpets can be found in a wide variety of wear
ratings and price ranges. This is generally the best choice of carpet
fiber for the home.
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Cedar Shingle Siding - Cedar siding looks great after new stain is applied. It gives your home a nice warm look. But in order to achieve that look, the surface must be very carefully preped. Since stain is transparent, any flaws will show, and in fact are magnified by the application of stain. |
New Cedar Siding
New cedar siding should be protected from the weather at all times.
Don’t leave the siding exposed to the elements - get the finish on as
soon as possible. It is usually not necessary to perform extensive
surface preparation as long as the siding has not weathered for more
than two weeks and is clean and dry. Any contamination, such as dirt,
oil, and other foreign substances, must be removed.
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Wood Burning Stove - Wood stoves are a pleasant way to heat your home. Since they are completely exposed to surrounding air, most of the heat is radiated into the living area instead of going up the chimney. And they can produce enough heat to help lower your utility bill. |
Wood stoves require regular maintenance in order to
remain efficient and safe. Creosote (black flammable tar deposited from wood smoke)
builds up inside your chimney and must be removed to prevent a chimney
fire. Ashes have to be cleaned out of the firebox and disposed of
properly.
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Electrical Circuit Breakers - Circuit breakers are one of the most important safety devices in your home. They help prevent electrical fires as well as electrocution. Be very careful if you decide to diagnose problems when a breaker trips. You could easily injure or kill yourself if you come into contact with a device that has a short circuit. Always hire a licensed electrician to make repairs. |
Located inside your home is a circuit breaker box or panel that contains
circuit breakers. Some homes have more than one panel. There may be a
main panel plus one or more sub-panels in other locations.
There will usually be a large main breaker at the top of the panel with a
high rating. The breakers for your branch circuits are physically
smaller and have a lower amp rating. Be advised that shutting off the
main breaker will also shutdown the branch circuits, but there is
still high voltage in the breaker panel. The main wire leads into the
panel are still active, and shutting off the main breaker will not
stop current flow to these main leads.
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Grout Cleaner - Cleaning ceramic tile grout can be a messy and difficult job. This is especially true if the grout has never been sealed. Stains from mold, food and beverages, and foot traffic can make your grout look old and dirty way before it's time.
Start with something simple, like vinegar or baking soda. Dilute the vinegar with an equal amount of clean water. Baking soda is mixed with water to create a paste. Apply the homemade cleaner and scrub in small circles with a nylon brush. Rinse with water and dry with a sponge or paper towels. |
If your grout is still stained, the next thing to
try would be commercial tile and grout cleaners. These are
available where home cleaning products are sold. Start with a mild
cleaner instead of jumping right to a harsh one. To get the best result from
a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes
before scrubbing. Follow the directions on the label to
clean effectively and prevent discoloration.
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|
Wood Stain - Wood stains are designed to impart a deep, rich color. When applied correctly, they also protect the wood from water damage. Unlike paint, which builds a color coat on the surface, stain will penetrate the surface when applied. The surface of wood will be partially visible and therefore requires careful preparation to minimize imperfections prior to application. |
The initial application of paint or wood stain is absorbed into the
substrate. Since stains contain low amounts of binder, the pigment
remains near the surface, while the binder penetrates to a deeper
level. On the other hand, paint has a high amount of binder, so the
pigment forms a layer on the surface.
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Cleaning Ceramic Tile - Cleaning ceramic tile floors is not very difficult. For most jobs a simple damp mop will do the trick. However, the grout is another matter. It can be very difficult to remove stains from grout that has not been sealed properly. It's also difficult to clean the grout using regular sponge and cloth mops because the tiles are usually higher that the grout.
If your grout is fairly dirty, you’ll need a stronger solution than you use on the tiles. Lysol and similar cleaners can be used almost full strength for thorough cleaning of the grout. Remember that when you use such strong solutions, you will need to go over it again with plain water. And don't let the solution sit on the grout too long. It could be absorbed and cause permanent discoloration. |
The best long term solution to
keeping grout clean is to seal it. This will help prevent spills from
being absorbed into the grout, and cleanup is much easier.
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Natural Gas Generators - Purchasing a portable generator is not difficult if you know how to calculate power usage. There are 120 volt and 240 volt devices in your home or on the job site, and also constant flow vs startup surge devices. This article will help you select the size you need. |
Inductive load appliances and tools such as refrigerators, washers,
and power tools require additional wattage for starting. The initial
load only lasts for a few seconds, but is very important when
calculating your total wattage. For example - Running a 100 watt light
bulb, a 1,200 watt refrigerator with a start-up wattage of 3,000
watts, and a 400 watt TV, would require 3,500 watts.
| Appliance or Tool |
Running Wattage* |
Startup (Surge) Wattage* |
| 3/8″ hand drill |
500 |
750 |
| Jigsaw |
600 |
900 |
| 7 1/4″ circular saw |
1500 |
1900 |
| Portable heater |
1500 |
1800 |
| Belt sander |
1200 |
1700 |
| Furnace fan |
1100 |
2000 |
| Refrigerator / Freezer |
1200 |
3000 |
| Clothes washer |
1000 |
7500 |
| Light bulb |
75 |
0 |
| Television |
400 |
0 |
| Microwave |
750 |
0 |
| Toaster oven |
1500 |
0 |
| Water heater |
5000 |
0 |
| Coffeemaker |
1200 |
0 |
| * Wattage numbers are estimates. They will
vary based on the wattage rating of the tool or appliance being used. |
Electric Generator Safety Tips
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Discount Ceramic Floor Tiles - Ceramic floor tile is a great way to upgrade your home. Ceramic tiles are very durable and easy to clean. But in order to achieve that pro look, you must take your time during the initial planning and surface prep stages. Preparing the Surface Surface preparation is crucial for a professional looking tile job. High and low spots must be leveled or you will have difficulty aligning the tiles. Low areas can cause tiles to crack. Remove any contamination so the adhesive will adhere to back of tiles. |
Laying Out the Floor
Snap chalk lines with a 90 degree intersection, preferably in the center of
the room. Be patient. The more time you invest in laying out your area
the better your project will go. Solve your layout questions before
the adhesive is even mixed.
Mixing Instructions
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Lumber Liquidators - Softwood lumber is used for construction or remanufacture. Construction lumber is graded and sized after being processed at the mill. Lumber used for remanufacture will undergo secondary processing. Some examples include stock for pencils, ladders, poles, boxes, etc. |
Lumber intended for general construction is subdivided into stress graded, non-stress graded, and appearance categories. Stress graded and non-stress graded lumber are required to have consistent structural integrity. With appearance lumber, visual quality of the piece is most important and structural integrity is a secondary requirement. The term "yard lumber" is often applied to the non-stress graded and appearance lumber that is sold by retail lumberyards. With such lumber, grading is done on the better side of a piece after drying and surfacing, and grades are designated by specifying the allowable size and number of defects (e.g., knotholes). This contrasts with hardwoods where most grades are determined from the poorer side of each piece on the basis of a specified number of clear cuttings. Another distinction is that hardwoods are typically graded prior to drying and surfacing. |
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Ready Mixed Concrete Producer - If you are just starting out with a concrete project, you need to know how to measure the amount needed so you can place an order. Concrete is measured by the cubic yard and is simply called "yard". A yard of concrete contains 27 cubic feet. That's 3' wide, 3' high, and 3' long. So 3' x 3' x 3' = 27 cubic feet, and that's 1 cubic yard. |
Most concrete projects are measured by the foot for length and width, and
inches for thickness. So how do you determine the cubic yards of
concrete to order?
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Synthetic Stucco - Stucco is very durable. The newer types have a long lifespan and are resistant to the elements. But small cracks do occasionally appear. There is also the problem of mechanical damage from something hitting the surface.
Use acrylic latex paint to cover small cracks. You can also fill them with latex caulking compound and then paint with acrylic latex paint. For larger cracks, chisel around the edges of the crack and brush away loose material. Paint the edges with concrete bonding agent and allow to cure. Then use a trowel to fill the crack with stucco patching compound.
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Make sure the color and texture are similar to the stucco around it. Matching the texture and color is the hardest part of stucco repair. Make a few trial patches on scrap wood before applying to your house. Keep the patch damp for 4 days to allow it to cure.
To patch small holes, simply pack the hole with stucco patching compound.
With a larger hole, remove any loose material with a cold chisel and blow away the debris. Dampen the area where the patch will be applied. Partially fill the hole with patching compound. Don't fill the hole completely because you'll need to apply two more layers after the first one has cured.
Allow the first patch to cure for a couple of days, then apply the next layer. Repeat for the final layer. Keep the surface damp for 4 days. Then apply acrylic latex paint.
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Usg Ceiling Tile - Installing ceiling tiles requires a lot of planning before work begins. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions and take your time during the planning and layout stages. |
Selecting the Tiles
Most ceiling tiles are made of fiberboard. Standard
tiles measure 12" by 12", although tiles are also made in 12" by 24"
and other sizes. Acoustical tiles are made from the same type of fiber
with an additional manufacturing process to help absorb sound in a
room. A well designed acoustical tile absorbs up to 70 percent of
excess noise.
Ask the supplier to help estimate the materials you
need for installation. Most manufacturers provide charts to determine
the number of tiles, the amount of furring, and the gallons of
adhesive needed (if adhesive is used) based on the room size. Tiles
are typically packed as follows: 12" by 12" ceiling tiles in cartons
of 40, 12" by 24" are packed 20 to a carton.
Ceiling Tile Installation Methods
The most common methods of ceiling tile application
are adhesives, stapled or nailed to wood furring strips, or a metal
grid suspended from the overhead floor joists. For ceilings made of
plaster, sheetrock, or other materials that provides a smooth,
continuous backing, use adhesives to apply the ceiling tiles. If the
ceiling has cracked plaster or other defects, apply furring strips and
nail or staple the tiles to the furring strips.
Basic Rules
-
All cut tiles should be used for the edges of the room
where the ceiling meets the walls.
-
Cut tiles at opposite ends of the room should be the
same size.
-
If at all possible, cut tiles should not be less than
half a tile wide.
Determine the Size of Border Tiles
Measure the distance from wall to wall on the longer
side of the room. If the length measures exact feet, you will not need
to cut border tiles for that direction. If the distance does not come
out in exact feet, add 12 to the number of inches remaining and divide
by two. This gives you the width of your border tiles. For example, if
the room is 10′ 6" long, add 12 to 6 (18) and divide 18 by 2. The
result of 9" is the width of the border tiles for each end of the run.
Do the same thing for the shorter side of the room. Confused? Here is
the result of the calculations:
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Mediterranean House Plan - Building your own home is both rewarding and maddening. The problems you will face can tax both your energy and patience. Even hiring a general contractor to manage the project will not prevent problems from distracting you from other activities (like making a living).
You will also face one of the most frustrating things you likely will ever come across - the local building inspector. Just wait until one of these creatures shows up at your building site. You won't believe the goofy things they come up with. To be fair, some of the items they refuse to pass will be valid. But all too often, you'll end up with a jackass that's trying to stroke his/her over inflated ego. |
Don't count on anybody to do their job right. Just because an architect has
a nice office and a good reputation doesn't mean the drawings will be
done properly. The contractor that comes highly recommended might end
up ripping you off with shoddy work. You absolutely must stay on top
of the entire home building project to prevent losing
money or getting a house that you hate. It's amazing how many
contractors can't even read a simple set of blueprints. And don't let
them talk you into changing something unless you really want the
change. In some cases, the contractor is simply trying to swap cheaper
materials to increase the profit margin.
|
|
Roof Inspection - The roof of your home has a tough job. It must protect the rest of the structure from sun, rain, wind, and a host of other elements. To make matters worse, most homeowners never inspect their roof for damage or needed repairs. Once neglected, a small problem will grow into a much larger and expensive one. |
Your roof must be inspected periodically to ensure minor problems are
corrected before real damage sets in. If the pitch of your roof is
low, and you are comfortable (and confident) walking around on it, you
can perform your own inspection and make small repairs yourself.
Otherwise, hire someone to do this for you. Be careful - a fall, even
from a single story house, can be fatal.
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Modern House Plan - Building your own home (either yourself or by hiring a general contractor) is a rewarding - yet challenging - experience. Before you decide to go this way, you need a clear picture of what type of home you want. Do you need a two story or one? What about an attached garage? How many beds and baths will be sufficient for the size of your family? Keep detailed notes during your planning stage.
Once you've gathered all the necessary details, decide if you want to build it yourself, act as general contractor, or hire someone to manage the project. |
As the manager, your biggest responsibility is hiring the
subcontractors who will do the work. Do you know someone that recently
had work performed on their house? Who did they use? Was it done on
time and within budget? Would they use them again.
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|
Stain - Paints are usually water based latex or oil based. Most of the liquid portion of latex paint is water, while the liquid in oil based paints consists of petroleum distillates and other organic solvents.
Latex is the most commonly sold paint today. It covers well, cleanup with water is fast and easy, and it is durable. Before starting any paint project, consider the nature of your particular job before deciding which type of paint is best for your application.
|
Water based latex paints offer significant performance advantages. Compared to oil based paints, top quality exterior latex paints have greater durability, color retention, and chalk resistance, so they continue to look good for years. Since they are less brittle and more elastic than oil based paints, they have better resistance to cracking. Latex paints also dry much faster than oil based paints, which allows for a quicker second coat. When compared with other latex paints, those with 100% acrylic binders are especially durable and highly flexible. They tend to adhere extremely well to a variety of exterior surfaces, and have greater resistance to troublesome paint failures like blistering, flaking and peeling. |
Vintage Bathroom Tile - For a professional tile installation job, good planning and proper layout are a must. The surfaces must be smooth and free of defects. Fix all high and low spots before proceeding, and make sure that nail heads are countersunk slightly below the surface. Horizontal Working Lines Layout lines must be accurate and easy to see. The horizontal lines are drawn first, and the procedure depends on whether your tub or shower pan is level. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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|
Back Door - When it's time to replace an old door, the best way to go is with pre-hung units, where door and frame are already fitted together. This will eliminate problems with trying to get a new door to work properly in an old frame. |
Brick homes are especially prone to having jambs that cannot be
removed. For some reason, there are builders that will install the
doors, then apply brick right over the outer part of the door frame.
In this case, removal would require the jambs be broken apart in small
sections for removal, and the new frame would have to be modified in
order to fit.
|
|
Kitchen Backsplash - Ceramic tile comes in many shapes, sizes, textures and types. Before starting your tile project, take some time to investigate the types and installation procedures. You need a clear idea of the area you are going to tile as well as performance characteristics. Will the area be exposed to a lot of moisture? If you are tiling a floor, how much foot traffic will the area be exposed to? What about weight of heavy objects, such as refrigerators?
Remember accessories like soap dishes and towel holders if you are planning to install ceramic bathroom tile. Do you have the necessary equipment? Cutting tile is not difficult, but does require patience and a few tools to do the job right.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
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Berber Carpet - Carpet is one of those home items that's generally taken for granted. Most homes built today have carpet in the majority of rooms. Homeowners don't usually pay much attention to their carpet until it's worn and time for replacement. Then the choices of material and pile type can be very confusing.
Carpets are made by pulling loops of yarn through a tough backing. These loops are often cut to create the carpet's pile. The most durable synthetic carpeting material is nylon. It wears well and is quite stain resistant. |
The list of synthetic fibers can be confusing
because manufacturers often call them by proprietary names. Still, all
synthetics fall into four generic categories: nylon, olefin, acrylic,
and polyester.
Nylon - The majority of carpet fibers are made of nylon. Nylon fibers are resilient, survive the weight of furniture, and hold up well in heavily trafficked areas.
Nylon is available in a vast array of colors, and solution-dyed types
are colorfast. Nylon carpets can be found in a wide variety of wear
ratings and price ranges. This is generally the best choice of carpet
fiber for the home.
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|
Cedar Lap Siding - If you are applying stain to cedar siding, the surface must be very carefully prepared. Any imperfection will be magnified because stain is transparent. Take your time during this stage to obtain a professional looking job. |
New Cedar Siding
New cedar siding should be protected from the weather at all times.
Don’t leave the siding exposed to the elements - get the finish on as
soon as possible. It is usually not necessary to perform extensive
surface preparation as long as the siding has not weathered for more
than two weeks and is clean and dry. Any contamination, such as dirt,
oil, and other foreign substances, must be removed.
|
|
Wood Pellet Stove - Wood stoves add a nice touch to your living area. Since the stove is completely exposed to surrounding air, most of the heat is radiated into the room. When the snow is falling and temps hover just below zero, we light our stove and dim the lights. It's very relaxing to watch the flames dancing around through the glass door. It also keeps the furnace from coming on and that saves some money on heating bills. |
Wood stoves require regular maintenance in order to
remain efficient and safe. Creosote (black flammable tar deposited from wood smoke)
builds up inside your chimney and must be removed to prevent a chimney
fire. Ashes have to be cleaned out of the firebox and disposed of
properly.
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Wadsworth Circuit Breaker - You and your home are being silently protected from fire and injury by a very important device - the circuit breaker. Without breakers, the risk of damage would be great. You can perform some basic diagnostics if a breaker keeps tripping, but be very careful! You could easily injure or kill yourself if you contact a defective device or exposed wiring. Always hire a licensed electrician to make repairs or extensive troubleshooting. |
Located inside your home is a circuit breaker box or panel that contains
circuit breakers. Some homes have more than one panel. There may be a
main panel plus one or more sub-panels in other locations.
There will usually be a large main breaker at the top of the panel with a
high rating. The breakers for your branch circuits are physically
smaller and have a lower amp rating. Be advised that shutting off the
main breaker will also shutdown the branch circuits, but there is
still high voltage in the breaker panel. The main wire leads into the
panel are still active, and shutting off the main breaker will not
stop current flow to these main leads.
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Floor Grout - Tile grout gets dirty in different ways, and the type of stain usually depends on location. In the bathroom, it's mold or mildew. Kitchen tile grout catches spills from food and beverages. Floor grout gets dirty from foot and pet traffic.
To clean the grout, first use the least acidic cleaning solution. If unsuccessful, move up to the harsher chemical cleaners. In any case, be sure to protect your hands and eyes.
Simple household items like vinegar or baking soda may just do the trick. Use vinegar diluted with an equal amount of water, or make a paste of baking soda and water to clean the grout with. Spray or dab the homemade cleaner onto a length of grout and scrub with a brush. Scrubbing in small circles rather than straight up and down will remove more debris. Rinse well with water and dry with a sponge or paper towels. After the grout dries, take a look and see if the stains have been removed successfully. |
If your grout is still stained, the next thing to
try would be commercial tile and grout cleaners. These are
available where home cleaning products are sold. Start with a mild
cleaner instead of jumping right to a harsh one. To get the best result from
a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes
before scrubbing. Follow the directions on the label to
clean effectively and prevent discoloration.
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Wood Fence Stain - Wood stains penetrate wood instead of creating a film on top like paint. Pigment is suspended in a solvent and binding agent. Although similar to paint, there is very little binder. This allows color to penetrate into the wood, while leaving the substrate partially visible. Stain gives the wood a rich, deep color. |
The initial application of paint or wood stain is absorbed into the
substrate. Since stains contain low amounts of binder, the pigment
remains near the surface, while the binder penetrates to a deeper
level. On the other hand, paint has a high amount of binder, so the
pigment forms a layer on the surface.
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Cleaning Grout - Cleaning ceramic tile is pretty easy compared to other flooring types, but the grout is another story. Spills can easily stain unsealed grout and it can be very difficult to remove them. And stained grout will make the rest of the floor look dirty. |
The best long term solution to
keeping grout clean is to seal it. This will help prevent spills from
being absorbed into the grout, and cleanup is much easier.
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Generac Generators - If you live in an area that experiences a lot of power outages, or work on a job site without the benefit of public utilites, a portable generator my fill your needs. Generators come in a wide range of capacities and endurance (run time between fill-ups). This article will help with some of the decisions. |
Inductive load appliances and tools such as refrigerators, washers,
and power tools require additional wattage for starting. The initial
load only lasts for a few seconds, but is very important when
calculating your total wattage. For example - Running a 100 watt light
bulb, a 1,200 watt refrigerator with a start-up wattage of 3,000
watts, and a 400 watt TV, would require 3,500 watts.
| Appliance or Tool |
Running Wattage* |
Startup (Surge) Wattage* |
| 3/8″ hand drill |
500 |
750 |
| Jigsaw |
600 |
900 |
| 7 1/4″ circular saw |
1500 |
1900 |
| Portable heater |
1500 |
1800 |
| Belt sander |
1200 |
1700 |
| Furnace fan |
1100 |
2000 |
| Refrigerator / Freezer |
1200 |
3000 |
| Clothes washer |
1000 |
7500 |
| Light bulb |
75 |
0 |
| Television |
400 |
0 |
| Microwave |
750 |
0 |
| Toaster oven |
1500 |
0 |
| Water heater |
5000 |
0 |
| Coffeemaker |
1200 |
0 |
| * Wattage numbers are estimates. They will
vary based on the wattage rating of the tool or appliance being used. |
Electric Generator Safety Tips
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Buy Ceramic Tile - Ceramic tile is generally easy to install, and it's a great way to upgrade a kitchen or bath. In order to achieve that professional look, proper planning and prep work are the keys. Sub-floor Preparation The surface to be tiled must be smooth, dry, and clean. All contaminants must be removed by sanding, scraping or chipping. Any imperfections in the floor should be patched with a waterproof patching compound. |
Laying Out the Floor
Snap chalk lines with a 90 degree intersection, preferably in the center of
the room. Be patient. The more time you invest in laying out your area
the better your project will go. Solve your layout questions before
the adhesive is even mixed.
Mixing Instructions
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Lumber Supply - Softwood lumber is graded for construction or remanufacture projects. Construction lumber first processed by sawing, surfacing, etc., then graded. It is the most commonly available product in lumber yards. Lumber for remanufacture will undergo secondary processing to create a product that may differ markedly from the original piece. |
Lumber intended for general construction is subdivided into stress graded, non-stress graded, and appearance categories. Stress graded and non-stress graded lumber are required to have consistent structural integrity. With appearance lumber, visual quality of the piece is most important and structural integrity is a secondary requirement. The term "yard lumber" is often applied to the non-stress graded and appearance lumber that is sold by retail lumberyards. With such lumber, grading is done on the better side of a piece after drying and surfacing, and grades are designated by specifying the allowable size and number of defects (e.g., knotholes). This contrasts with hardwoods where most grades are determined from the poorer side of each piece on the basis of a specified number of clear cuttings. Another distinction is that hardwoods are typically graded prior to drying and surfacing. |
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Concrete Contractor Masonry - Concrete is usually ordered by the cubic yard. Most contractors simply say "yard". A cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet. The measurement is 3 feet wide, 3 feet high, and 3 feet long, or 3′ x 3′ x 3′ = 27 cubic feet. |
Most concrete projects are measured by the foot for length and width, and
inches for thickness. So how do you determine the cubic yards of
concrete to order?
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Stucco Contractor - Stucco is an excellent alternative to wood and vinyl siding. It has been around for over 50 years, and the finish is very durable. However, small cracks do occasionally appear. There is also the problem of mechanical damage from something hitting the surface. So repairs will be needed.
Use acrylic latex paint to cover hairline and small cracks. You can also fill them with latex caulking compound and then paint with acrylic latex paint. To fix larger cracks, chisel around the edges of the crack and brush away loose material. Paint the edges with concrete bonding agent. Next, use a trowel to fill the crack with stucco patching compound. |
Make sure the color and texture are similar to the stucco around it. Matching the texture and color is the hardest part of stucco repair. Make a few trial patches on scrap wood before applying to your house. Keep the patch damp for 4 days to allow it to cure.
To patch small holes, simply pack the hole with stucco patching compound.
With a larger hole, remove any loose material with a cold chisel and blow away the debris. Dampen the area where the patch will be applied. Partially fill the hole with patching compound. Don't fill the hole completely because you'll need to apply two more layers after the first one has cured.
Allow the first patch to cure for a couple of days, then apply the next layer. Repeat for the final layer. Keep the surface damp for 4 days. Then apply acrylic latex paint.
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Wood Ceiling Tile - Installing ceiling tiles is a great way to change the look and feel of a room. And fortunately, it's not a difficult job. Knowing a few "tricks of the trade" will make things go a lot easier. |
Selecting the Tiles
Most ceiling tiles are made of fiberboard. Standard
tiles measure 12" by 12", although tiles are also made in 12" by 24"
and other sizes. Acoustical tiles are made from the same type of fiber
with an additional manufacturing process to help absorb sound in a
room. A well designed acoustical tile absorbs up to 70 percent of
excess noise.
Ask the supplier to help estimate the materials you
need for installation. Most manufacturers provide charts to determine
the number of tiles, the amount of furring, and the gallons of
adhesive needed (if adhesive is used) based on the room size. Tiles
are typically packed as follows: 12" by 12" ceiling tiles in cartons
of 40, 12" by 24" are packed 20 to a carton.
Ceiling Tile Installation Methods
The most common methods of ceiling tile application
are adhesives, stapled or nailed to wood furring strips, or a metal
grid suspended from the overhead floor joists. For ceilings made of
plaster, sheetrock, or other materials that provides a smooth,
continuous backing, use adhesives to apply the ceiling tiles. If the
ceiling has cracked plaster or other defects, apply furring strips and
nail or staple the tiles to the furring strips.
Basic Rules
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All cut tiles should be used for the edges of the room
where the ceiling meets the walls.
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Cut tiles at opposite ends of the room should be the
same size.
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If at all possible, cut tiles should not be less than
half a tile wide.
Determine the Size of Border Tiles
Measure the distance from wall to wall on the longer
side of the room. If the length measures exact feet, you will not need
to cut border tiles for that direction. If the distance does not come
out in exact feet, add 12 to the number of inches remaining and divide
by two. This gives you the width of your border tiles. For example, if
the room is 10′ 6" long, add 12 to 6 (18) and divide 18 by 2. The
result of 9" is the width of the border tiles for each end of the run.
Do the same thing for the shorter side of the room. Confused? Here is
the result of the calculations:
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Small House Plan - So you have decided to build your own home. Although it can be very rewarding, you must be ready - financially and emotionally - to deal with the myriad or problems that will occur. And if you are going to actually do the work yourself instead of acting as general contractor, you must have time, determination, and tons of patience.
Just dealing with local building inspectors can be maddening. Answer this question; If a building inspector is actually good enough to build a home, then why doesn't he/she do that for a living instead of inspecting them? There is a far greater profit potential to building verses inspecting. So you will be up against ridiculous and unnecessary change requests from inspectors that know less about the project than you. In some cases, a lot less.
I personally witnessed one inspector that demanded all screws be removed from a new deck and replaced with nails. Now really, how much sense does that make, especially when every other deck in the area was built with screws and passed final inspection. Unreal. If you can't handle this type of lunar logic, then find someone that can. |
Don't count on anybody to do their job right. Just because an architect has
a nice office and a good reputation doesn't mean the drawings will be
done properly. The contractor that comes highly recommended might end
up ripping you off with shoddy work. You absolutely must stay on top
of the entire home building project to prevent losing
money or getting a house that you hate. It's amazing how many
contractors can't even read a simple set of blueprints. And don't let
them talk you into changing something unless you really want the
change. In some cases, the contractor is simply trying to swap cheaper
materials to increase the profit margin.
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Roof Type - Most homeowners completely ignore the roof on their home. But that's a mistake. Your roof has a very difficult job. It must provide protection from the elements, while maintaining it's look for many years. Ignoring small problems is the number one reason for expensive re-roofing jobs. |
Your roof must be inspected periodically to ensure minor problems are
corrected before real damage sets in. If the pitch of your roof is
low, and you are comfortable (and confident) walking around on it, you
can perform your own inspection and make small repairs yourself.
Otherwise, hire someone to do this for you. Be careful - a fall, even
from a single story house, can be fatal.
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Southern House Plan - Thinking about building your own home? While it's a very rewarding experience, there are a lot of things to consider. And it's not easy, even if you hire an experienced contractor to manage the project. Building a home will take a lot of your time and energy. Problems will arise during the course of construction that will need your attention. I'm not trying to discourage you, but you must be sure you have the resources to handle this type of project.
Start by making a detailed list of the "must-haves". How many bedrooms and baths? Two story, or one? Attached garage? What type of heat and air conditioning will be needed for your area? What type of exterior do you need (wood is high maintenance, brick and stucco require little attention). How about a deck? |
As the manager, your biggest responsibility is hiring the
subcontractors who will do the work. Do you know someone that recently
had work performed on their house? Who did they use? Was it done on
time and within budget? Would they use them again.
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Cheap Paint - All house paints are either water based latex or oil based. Latex is the most commonly sold paint today. It covers well, cleanup with water is fast and easy, and it is durable.
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Water based latex paints offer significant performance advantages. Compared to oil based paints, top quality exterior latex paints have greater durability, color retention, and chalk resistance, so they continue to look good for years. Since they are less brittle and more elastic than oil based paints, they have better resistance to cracking. Latex paints also dry much faster than oil based paints, which allows for a quicker second coat. When compared with other latex paints, those with 100% acrylic binders are especially durable and highly flexible. They tend to adhere extremely well to a variety of exterior surfaces, and have greater resistance to troublesome paint failures like blistering, flaking and peeling. |
Stone Bathroom Tile - In order to achieve a professional and attractive look, be sure to take your time during the planning and surface prep stages. The substrate to be tiled has to be clean, smooth, and free of defects. Any damaged areas must be repaired and smoothed before work begins. Even small high spots will make alignment nearly impossible. Horizontal Working Lines The horizontal lines are drawn first. Make sure all lines are accurate and easy to see. The way to do this depends on whether your tub or shower pan is level or not. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Garage Door Part - Most people buy doors with jambs assembled together, called pre-hung doors. Installing a pre-hung door is usually easier than trying to fit a new door into an existing frame. |
Brick homes are especially prone to having jambs that cannot be
removed. For some reason, there are builders that will install the
doors, then apply brick right over the outer part of the door frame.
In this case, removal would require the jambs be broken apart in small
sections for removal, and the new frame would have to be modified in
order to fit.
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Kitchen Backsplash Tile - Before starting your ceramic tile project, research the different types and styles available. Be sure to review installation procedures before doing the layout. The performance characteristics of your tile project need to be considered before purchase. Will the area be exposed to a lot of moisture? If you are tiling a floor, how much weight will it have to support? Do you have the necessary equipment? Cutting tile is not difficult, but does require patience and a few tools to do the job right.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
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Carpet Installation - Carpets are made by pulling loops of synthetic or wool yarn through a tough backing. These loops are often cut to create the carpet's pile. The most durable synthetic carpeting material is nylon. It wears well and is quite stain resistant. Other synthetic materials are olefin, polyester, and acrylic. Wool has the most pleasant and natural texture, and is also the most expensive. The fibers used have a dramatic impact on a carpet's look and performance. |
The list of synthetic fibers can be confusing
because manufacturers often call them by proprietary names. Still, all
synthetics fall into four generic categories: nylon, olefin, acrylic,
and polyester.
Nylon - The majority of carpet fibers are made of nylon. Nylon fibers are resilient, survive the weight of furniture, and hold up well in heavily trafficked areas.
Nylon is available in a vast array of colors, and solution-dyed types
are colorfast. Nylon carpets can be found in a wide variety of wear
ratings and price ranges. This is generally the best choice of carpet
fiber for the home.
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Vinyl Cedar Siding - The surface condition of cedar siding will have a huge impact on the look and lifespan of the final result. Take your time and get this step right before applying any type of finish. |
New Cedar Siding
New cedar siding should be protected from the weather at all times.
Don’t leave the siding exposed to the elements - get the finish on as
soon as possible. It is usually not necessary to perform extensive
surface preparation as long as the siding has not weathered for more
than two weeks and is clean and dry. Any contamination, such as dirt,
oil, and other foreign substances, must be removed.
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Wood Stove Fan - Wood stoves are a pleasant way to heat your home. Since they are completely exposed to surrounding air, most of the heat is radiated into the living area instead of going up the chimney. And they can produce enough heat to help lower your utility bill. |
Wood stoves require regular maintenance in order to
remain efficient and safe. Creosote (black flammable tar deposited from wood smoke)
builds up inside your chimney and must be removed to prevent a chimney
fire. Ashes have to be cleaned out of the firebox and disposed of
properly.
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Circuit Breaker Type - Electricity can be very dangerous. It can cause injury or death, and has the potential to start fires. The purpose of this article is to explain how one of the most important safety devices in your home works - the circuit breaker. If any repairs are needed, hire a licensed electrician. Be very careful because you could be severly injured if you come into contact with a live circuit or defective device. |
Located inside your home is a circuit breaker box or panel that contains
circuit breakers. Some homes have more than one panel. There may be a
main panel plus one or more sub-panels in other locations.
There will usually be a large main breaker at the top of the panel with a
high rating. The breakers for your branch circuits are physically
smaller and have a lower amp rating. Be advised that shutting off the
main breaker will also shutdown the branch circuits, but there is
still high voltage in the breaker panel. The main wire leads into the
panel are still active, and shutting off the main breaker will not
stop current flow to these main leads.
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Cleaning Tile Grout - Tile grout can be difficult to remove stains from, especially if it has never been sealed. Mold, mildew, food and beverage stains, and a host of other problems can make your grout look old and dirty way before it's time.
Start with a household solution of vinegar or baking soda before moving to more harsh commercial cleaners. Dilute vinegar with an equal amount of water. To use baking soda, mix with enough water to make a paste. Apply the homemade cleaner in small circular motions with a nylon brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry. |
If your grout is still stained, the next thing to
try would be commercial tile and grout cleaners. These are
available where home cleaning products are sold. Start with a mild
cleaner instead of jumping right to a harsh one. To get the best result from
a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes
before scrubbing. Follow the directions on the label to
clean effectively and prevent discoloration.
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Foam Concrete - Fixing a cracked concrete driveway or sidewalk is well within the ability of the average handyman. And the damage should be repaired as soon as possible, because water will get under the structure and cause more problems. |
Cracks in Sidewalks
Enlarge
the crack along its entire length with a cold chisel and hammer. Use
gloves and eye protection! Make the crack wider at the bottom than at
the top, a process known as undercutting. It helps to bond the new
concrete with the older concrete. After the crack has been thoroughly
undercut, remove all loose material and brush the area with a wire
brush.
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Mosaic Bathroom Tile - Looking for a way to upgrade your bath? New ceramic bathroom tiles are a great and inexpensive way to do this. The job is not too difficult, and well within the ability of the average do-it-yourself handyman. Horizontal Working Lines Start by drawing horizontal layout lines. Make sure they are very accurate and easy to see. You will need to determine if your shower pan or bathtub are level before proceeding. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Concrete Loop - Fixing a cracked concrete driveway or sidewalk is well within the ability of the average handyman. And the damage should be repaired as soon as possible, because water will get under the structure and cause more problems. |
Cracks in Sidewalks
Enlarge
the crack along its entire length with a cold chisel and hammer. Use
gloves and eye protection! Make the crack wider at the bottom than at
the top, a process known as undercutting. It helps to bond the new
concrete with the older concrete. After the crack has been thoroughly
undercut, remove all loose material and brush the area with a wire
brush.
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White Tile Backsplash - Installing a ceramic tile backsplash will give your kitchen or bath a completely new look. Because the area you’re covering is not very large, it’s easy to keep the expense to a minimum. This type of project is well within the skills of the average do it yourself handyman and makes an excellent weekend project. Just take your time during the planning and layout stages for a professional looking job. |
Before starting, review the features of the area. What color are the walls,
countertop, floor and appliances? Are the cabinets light or dark? What
type of lighting is present, and what does it illuminate? What color
and type are the fixtures? If your cabinets are dark, you may want to
lighten-up the area. If you have under-cabinet lighting, the
backsplash could probably be done in a medium color tone so it doesn’t
contrast with the cabinetry.
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Concrete Foundation Raise Repair - Concrete projects are quoted by the cubic yard. In order to simplify things, the generic term "yard" is used. A cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet of concrete and measures 3' wide, 3' high, and 3' long. So 3' x 3' x 3' = 27 cubic feet. The following discussion will show how easy it is to calculate the amount needed for your project. |
Most concrete projects are measured by the foot for length and width, and
inches for thickness. So how do you determine the cubic yards of
concrete to order?
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Ceramic Floor Tile - Before starting your ceramic tile project, research the different types and styles available. Be sure to review installation procedures before doing the layout. The performance characteristics of your tile project need to be considered before purchase. Will the area be exposed to a lot of moisture? If you are tiling a floor, how much weight will it have to support? Do you have the necessary equipment? Cutting tile is not difficult, but does require patience and a few tools to do the job right.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
Bathroom Tiles Design - Installing ceramic bathroom tiles is one of those projects that are both fairly simple and very rewarding. The entire job can be accomplished over a weekend with minimal tools, and the results provide benefits for years to come. Horizontal Working Lines Horizontal layout lines must be drawn first. Be careful and ensure they are level and easy to read during the installation process. There are two procedures, depending on if your tub or shower pan are level or not. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Ceramic Tile - Ceramic tile comes in many shapes, sizes, textures and types. Before starting your tile project, take some time to investigate the types and installation procedures. You need a clear idea of the area you are going to tile as well as performance characteristics. Will the area be exposed to a lot of moisture? If you are tiling a floor, how much foot traffic will the area be exposed to? What about weight of heavy objects, such as refrigerators?
Remember accessories like soap dishes and towel holders if you are planning to install ceramic bathroom tile. Do you have the necessary equipment? Cutting tile is not difficult, but does require patience and a few tools to do the job right.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
White Bathroom Tile - Ceramic bathroom tiles are a great and inexpensive way to add zip to you bath. And the project is well within the ability of the average handyman. Good surface prep is the key. Make sure the substrate is clean and free of high and low spots. Take your time on this part of the project and your results will have a professional look. Horizontal Layout Lines Begin by drawing horizontal layout lines first. Be sure they are accurate and easy to read. If too faint, you will have difficulty seeing them during tile installation. You need to determine if your shower pan or tub are level before proceeding. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Ceiling Tile - Before starting your ceramic tile project, research the different types and styles available. Be sure to review installation procedures before doing the layout. The performance characteristics of your tile project need to be considered before purchase. Will the area be exposed to a lot of moisture? If you are tiling a floor, how much weight will it have to support? Do you have the necessary equipment? Cutting tile is not difficult, but does require patience and a few tools to do the job right.
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Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are normal sized then you should add no more than 10% for waste. Some tiles will have to be cut, while others may be damaged or blemished. Always order an extra 10%. Even if you don't use them, they often come in handy for repairs at a later date. |
Installing Bathroom Floor Tile - In order to achieve a professional and attractive look, be sure to take your time during the planning and surface prep stages. The substrate to be tiled has to be clean, smooth, and free of defects. Any damaged areas must be repaired and smoothed before work begins. Even small high spots will make alignment nearly impossible. Horizontal Working Lines The horizontal lines are drawn first. Make sure all lines are accurate and easy to see. The way to do this depends on whether your tub or shower pan is level or not. |
Level Tub or Shower Pan - If the tub is level to within 1/8″, measure and mark your horizontal line from the high point of the tub. The 1/8″ difference (if
there is a difference) can be hidden with grout. Measure up from the lip of the tub, the width of a tile plus 1/8″. Make a line using a level and a straight edge, along the back wall and the two end walls.
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Hexagon Bathroom Tile - Ceramic bathroom tiles are a great and inexpensive way to add zip to you bath. And the project is well within the ability of the average handyman. Good surface prep is the key. Make sure the substrate is clean and free of high and low spots. Take your time on this part of the project and your results will have a professional look. Horizontal Layout Lines Begin by drawing horizontal layout lines first. Be sure they are accurate and easy to read. If too faint, you will have difficulty seeing them during tile installation. You need to determine if your shower pan or tub a | | |