Key Takeaway Always use corrosion-resistant fasteners with pressure treated lumber. Hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, or specially coated screws and nails are essential, because the preservatives in treated wood can eat through ordinary steel fasteners. Using the right hardware prevents rust, staining, and premature structural failure in decks, fences, and other outdoor projects. Why Fastener Choice...
Key Takeaway Pressure treated wood often warps or cracks as it dries because of the moisture used during the treatment process. To keep it straight and strong, buy properly stored boards, let them dry before building, seal them with a protective finish, and use smart installation practices like spacing, fastening, and bracing. Why Pressure Treated...
Key Takeaway Pressure treated wood is not safe for pets to chew or ingest. It contains chemical preservatives that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or worse if eaten. For outdoor pet structures like dog houses, rabbit hutches, or chicken coops, use untreated or naturally rot-resistant lumber instead. If your pet eats treated wood, contact a veterinarian...
Key Takeaway: No — you should not use pressure treated wood indoors. Pressure treated lumber is infused with chemical preservatives to resist rot and insects, making it great for decks, fences, and landscaping. But those same chemicals can off-gas or leach into the air and dust of your home, which isn’t safe for framing, shelving,...
Key Takeaway Winter is often the best season to repaint a bedroom. Cooler weather means professional painters are more available, prices can be lower, and you’re indoors anyway. Bedrooms repainted in the off-season not only look fresh but also help you enjoy your space during the months when you spend the most time inside. Why...
Key Takeaway Paint doesn’t just need the right surface — it needs the right temperature. Interior and exterior paints are designed to cure within specific ranges, and applying them outside those limits can lead to peeling, cracking, or poor adhesion. Indoors, this usually means keeping rooms comfortably heated. Outdoors, it means waiting for mild, dry...
Key Takeaway Lingering odors are one of the fastest ways to turn off potential buyers — but paint, when used correctly, is one of the most effective tools for fixing the problem. By cleaning thoroughly, sealing surfaces with odor-blocking primer, and finishing with fresh neutral paint, homeowners can erase years of smoke, pet, or cooking...
Key Takeaway Painting before selling is almost always worth it. Fresh, neutral walls instantly make a home look cleaner, brighter, and more move-in ready. This simple upgrade builds buyer confidence, helps listings stand out online, and often leads to higher offers and faster sales — all at a fraction of the cost of major renovations....
Key Takeaway Plan to finish painting at least 2–4 weeks before photography or open houses. This allows time for touch-ups, proper curing, and for any paint odors to fully fade. Done right, painting ahead of time makes the home look fresh and move-in ready without giving buyers the impression of a rushed, last-minute fix. Why...
Key Takeaway Painting before moving in is one of the smartest decisions a homeowner can make. Empty homes are faster, cheaper, and safer to paint because there’s no furniture to move or protect. You’ll save on labor costs, avoid the risk of drips or splatters on your belongings, and achieve a smoother, more professional finish....