How to Protect Your Garden Beds from Summer Heat Stress
To protect garden beds from summer heat stress, focus on deep watering, smart mulching, partial shade, and heat-tolerant plants. These practical strategies keep vegetables, herbs, and flowers thriving even during Northeast Ohio's hottest months. How to Protect Your Garden Beds from Summer Heat Stress Northeast Ohio summers...
Should You Leave Grass Clippings or Bag Them in June?
In most cases, you should leave grass clippings on the lawn in June. Mulching clippings helps return nutrients to the soil, retain moisture, and strengthen grass — especially during early summer growth. Bag clippings only if the lawn is overgrown, wet, or weed-heavy. Should You Leave...
Should You Install the Vanity or Faucet First? (Order Matters)
🔑 Key Takeaway Always install your faucet before anchoring your vanity—if the countertop is not yet attached. It’s easier, faster, and safer to mount the faucet while the top is accessible. Once the vanity is secured to the wall, tight spaces and tricky angles make faucet...
How to Grow Kale in Cleveland
Kale is a hardy, nutrient-dense leafy green that grows well in cool weather and can be harvested over many months. Start it from seed in spring or late summer, harvest outer leaves as needed, and enjoy a steady supply of greens fresh, cooked, or preserved....
Why We Brush and Roll Decks Instead of Spraying
Spraying deck stain might look fast, but it rarely gives a lasting finish. That’s why we always back-brush or roll after spraying — or skip the sprayer altogether — to make sure stain penetrates, not just sits on top. It takes longer, but the results...
Do Bathroom Vanities Need a Backsplash?
🔑 Key Takeaway A backsplash isn’t strictly required behind a bathroom vanity, but it can prevent water damage, mold, and messy walls — especially near sinks that get daily use. Whether you choose a vanity set with a matching backsplash or go custom with tile or...
How to Stop Faucet Leaks
If your faucet is leaking after installation, don’t panic — it’s usually due to a loose connection, a misaligned gasket, or overtightening. This guide walks you through the most common causes of post-install faucet leaks, how to spot them, and how to fix them without...
What Affects the Price of a Deck Staining Project?
Deck staining prices vary based on deck size, condition, stain type, prep work, and design complexity. While small, simple decks can cost a few hundred dollars, larger or worn decks with rails and repairs can run $1,500 or more. You’re not just paying for color...
What is Crabgrass?
Crabgrass is a fast-growing, heat-loving annual weed that thrives in thin, compacted, or poorly maintained lawns. It germinates in spring, spreads aggressively in summer, and drops thousands of seeds before dying in fall. The best defense is healthy turf, timely mowing, and targeted pre- and...
What Weeds to Watch Out for in July (And How to Stop Them)
In July, weeds grow aggressively thanks to heat, sun, and rain. Spotting and treating invaders like crabgrass, nutsedge, and creeping Charlie now can prevent them from taking over your lawn or garden. The key is timely ID, targeted removal, and ongoing prevention. What Weeds to Watch...
Should I turn off the main valve when leaving for vacation?
🔑 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...
How to Remove an Old Bathroom Faucet Without Damaging the Sink
To remove an old bathroom faucet without damaging the sink, shut off the water, disconnect the supply lines, loosen mounting hardware from underneath, and lift the faucet carefully to avoid scratching or cracking porcelain or granite. Using the right tools and a gentle touch is...