The best way to prevent outdoor faucets and pipes from freezing is to shut off and drain exterior water lines, insulate vulnerable spots, and add protective covers before temperatures drop. A few hours of preparation in the fall can prevent thousands in plumbing repair bills during a Cleveland winter. If you’ve lived through a Cleveland...
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...
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...
🔑 Key Takeaway Removing a bathroom vanity the right way takes more than just unscrewing bolts. By carefully disconnecting plumbing, cutting caulk, and loosening adhesive, you can remove your old vanity without damaging your walls or floors — setting the stage for a clean, hassle-free replacement. 🛠️ Tools You’ll Need Utility knife Pry bar or...
🔑 Key Takeaway Yes, turning off your main water valve before going on vacation is one of the smartest ways to prevent plumbing disasters. A single leak can cause thousands in damage while you’re away. Shutting off the water is quick, easy, and protects your home while you’re not there. Introduction You’re packed, the mail’s...
July is a crucial month for mid-year home upkeep. From managing summer heat to staying ahead of wear-and-tear, homeowners should focus on HVAC health, lawn care, exterior inspections, and prepping for late-summer storms. Doing these tasks now prevents costly repairs later. July Home Maintenance Checklist: What Every Homeowner Should Be Doing This Month Summer is...
🔑 Key Takeaway Sink shut-off valves, also known as angle stops, control water flow to your faucet. If they’re old, stuck, or leaking — and especially if you’re already swapping out a vanity or faucet — it’s smart to replace them. Doing so adds safety, improves reliability, and future-proofs your plumbing for the next 10+...
When it comes time to pick a sump pump, you’ll quickly run into two main types: pedestal and submersible. They both do the same job—keep your basement dry—but they do it in very different ways. As a handyman who’s installed and replaced more pumps than I can count, I can tell you: the right choice...
Your home’s main water shut-off valve controls the entire water supply. Whether you’re doing a faucet install or handling a plumbing emergency, knowing where it is — and how to operate it — can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Every homeowner should be able to find and test this valve confidently. Why the Main...
When the rain is pouring and the power goes out, your primary sump pump might go quiet—and that silence can lead to thousands in water damage. That’s where a backup system comes in. As someone who’s been in the basement during those worst-case scenarios, let me tell you: if you don’t have a backup, it’s...