Knowing the parts of your toilet can save you time, money, and frustration. Every flush depends on a few key components working together—some you can see, others hidden inside the tank. When something goes wrong (like constant running, weak flushing, or leaks around the base), the issue usually traces back to one or two worn-out...
Buying a new toilet seems simple—until you realize how many options exist. The right toilet fits your space, water supply, and comfort level, while also helping avoid leaks or clogs later. Before heading to the store, measure your rough-in distance, choose a bowl shape and height that suits your household, and decide on the flush...
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,...
Hairline cracks in drywall are typically caused by natural settling, temperature fluctuations, or minor structural movement. They’re common in both old and new homes and are usually cosmetic. Fixing them is a straightforward DIY task with the right tools, materials, and a bit of finesse — or a quick professional repair if you’re short on...
The Allen + Roth Rexburg 2-Light Vanity Light is an affordable, stylish upgrade that instantly brightens and modernizes a bathroom. I recently installed three on a remodeling project, and they completely transformed the space. With easy installation and the flexibility to choose your own bulbs, this fixture is a smart choice for homeowners looking to...
Nail pops and screw pops are common drywall issues caused by shifting studs or settling homes. To fix them properly — and keep them from coming back — you’ll need to secure the drywall, fill the divot, and blend the patch into the wall. This guide walks you through every step and tool needed for...
If you’re handy and love a good weekend project, you might wonder if installing your own sump pump is worth a shot. And while the answer depends on a few key factors, I’ll walk you through both sides of the decision—based on years of crawling through basements and fixing both good and bad installs. Here’s...