Split (1)

train · 95.7k rows

source stringlengths 620 29.3k	target stringlengths 12 1.24k
How can I drill through a Linoleum floor? I would like a drill a hole through my dining room floor to run a wire. The floor is carpeted, so I pulled back the carpet in the corner to find an old linoleum floor. I attempted to drill a hole through it, but the linoleum seemed to melt and then form an impenetrable barrier...	Then drill after you've peeled it back. If it is asbestos do a little research first on the correct way to handle drilling holes.
Why don't the textures of drywall patches match the room? I recently remodeled a bedroom and installed new drywall. We painted the walls and ceiling with flat paint (since this is in the master bedroom and it is supposed to "hide" imprefections better than glossy finishes). But then we had a few "screw pops" in the ce...	The difference in the texture is because a roller was used originally and then you are painting the patch with a brush.
What are some alternatives to wall anchors? I've used these anchors in the past...I really like them for heavy duty mounting in drywall (for things such as vertical standards for shelves).However, these make pretty big holes in the drywall. Eventually if you take them down, put up new ones in different spots, they will...	An alternative to using a large wall anchor for heavy duty mounting is to always find a wall stud for whatever item you are hanging on the wall.
Where do I begin finding estimates for problems with my potential first home? I'm looking at purchasing an older home as a primary dwelling. On going through the house with an experienced Realtor and several experienced DIY people for reference (but not a home inspector or other professional), I've identified several ...	If you are still interested in the house, find a good general contractor (that you trust) and take him on a walk through. Personally I get it water proofed from the outside if you don't want to deal with the water in there
Is an interior laundry room without an HVAC vent a code violation? Currently looking at a home which has a nice 2nd floor laundry. Vented dryer, nice rack for hanging clothes, etc. However, it's in the center of the home and does not contain an HVAC (central air) vent. It does have a vent for the dryer. Is this a "...	A washer and dryer vent to move their exhaust out of the house, yes. Therefore, it's just bad design, not a code violation. Although most are based on the National Building Code, code should always be assumed to be local. You can put a ceiling fan in pretty easily.
How do I keep my outdoor trash cans from blowing away in the wind? I have two trash cans that sit on the side of my house. What can I do to keep them from blowing away due to the wind, when they are empty? I've tried bungee cording them together but they then just blow away as a couple. I have concrete block so I thoug...	Your idea of a bungee cording the trash cans to the side of the house might be the easiest option. You could try a set of D-rings and concrete screws for that.
Does a homeowner need a permit for electrical work in Massachusetts? Does a homeowner need to obtain a permit from the town in order to do electrical work on his own house in Massachusetts? The unofficial answers I can find online (e.g., this forum and the websites of various towns) are all over the place, and appar...	As a result, homeowners can legally do their own electrical work, but the work will not be inspected by the town.
Should I remove old linoleum when replacing a linoleum floor? I'm planning to replace the linoleum floor in my kitchen in the next few months. According to a friend, I do not need to remove the existing linoleum and can just lay down new flooring on top. However, this just strikes me as wrong. So, should I remove the...	If it were me I would remove it.
How do I fix flattened carpet pile? Can I prevent this from happening? As is often the case when replacing furniture, I've just bought a new sofa, but the old one has left "footprints" where the carpet pile has been squashed under the feet of the old one. Is there anything that can be done to make the old footprints b...	Try to get them raised as much as possible and then let it dry. If it's not a fitted carpet rotate it every so often.
Kind of contractor to hire to install new basement window, where there was none before? A family member is interested in getting their basement finished, and one of the things they'd like to do is have an additional bedroom in the basement. The bedroom should have a window. However, the basement doesn't have a wind...	I'd just talk to a good general contractor that is willing to take on the project.
Is it possible to install pocket doors in the cavity of an external wall? Is it possible to install pocket doors in the cavity of an external wall, it will be an internal door as it's between a room and a conservatory. The cavity does have foam in it though. <Q> <A> I don't think it's likely to meet building code requ...	One thing that comes to mind is that the pocket would not be very well insulated and so you might have heating/cooling issues with that wall (depending on how the conservatory is used).
Storing latex paint in hot garage? How well does latex interior paint hold up to being stored in a hot garage over time? I did some painting several months ago, and without thinking too much about it kept the leftover paint in the garage. Outside temperatures sometimes reach 90+. Should I worry about the color chang...	However, given that it can take weeks for a coat of paint to cure fully under normal household conditions, if the can is sealed well, my SWAG is that it would take years before you'd notice a change in the paint.
Is there any reason to be wary of vinyl windows? Consumer reports "buying guide" for replacement windows recommends fiberglass or wood windows over vinyl. I've also heard from various sources that some vinyl windows can warp with expansion and contraction over time. I'm wondering if I should avoid vinyl replacement w...	Also, vinyl isn't good for high-heat areas. As with anything, quality counts.
What are my options for replacing 50W GU10 lightbulbs? I've been looking at replacing 50W GU10 halogen lightbulbs for something more energy efficient. Some people say that LEDs cannot give you the same light (even 10W LEDs), and to use 11W CFL instead, like the ones from megaman. I need these light bulbs for both my ...	The main difference seems to be that the CFL megamans are a slightly whiter warm white and diffuse and the LEDs are much more focussed beams (even though they are "wide beam") and warmer yellowish.
How do I hang a chair from a concrete ceiling using a single hook? I'm putting in a "hanging chair" in the basement and it's supposed to hang from a single hook in the ceiling. The ceiling is reinforced concrete. Now, I'm about 125 kilograms (275 lbs) so I reckon the hook should easily be able to bear twice that for ...	This would be dependent on the quality/strength of the concrete. Try a marine supply store like West Marine for a stainless steel "u-bolt" or galvanized "dock ring" on a 2, 3, or 4 hole base plate.
What is a cheap patio solution for a muddy area in my backyard? I have an area just at the end of my current patio that I have tried to grow grass in for a few years with no luck. The area is heavily shaded, it is between two large maples. Plus I have two large dogs that don't help matters. No matter what it always re...	In the end, I'd be looking to put down a thick bed of mulch there.
Is it ok to have mixed grounds and neutrals on bars in a breaker box? So to continue my line of electrical questioning (and perhaps narrow down my flickering light problem ), I took a look through the two panels in this house. There is a 200amp main service in the basement, which then feeds up to a 100amp sub-panel f...	If the main service panel happens to be the same place that the grounded (neutral) conductor is bonded to the grounding electrode, then there is no problem mixing grounds and neutrals on the same bus bar (as long as there is an appropriate number of conductors terminated under each lug).
How best can I discover what is up with my electrical bill? This might be subjective, I don't know. However, it's a serious problem for me. My electrical bill is outrageous. It's three times as large as my next-door neighbor, and four or five times the size of my neighbor's across the street. It's worse in the summer (...	Then open up your electrical panel and measure the draw on each circuit, this will show you which circuits are drawing the most. The Blueline Powercost Monitor is a definite DIY install (for the most common meter types).
What is the difference between Square D and QP single pole circuit breakers, and can they be mixed? I just noticed that all of the branches from my upstairs service box are run off of 15 or 20-amp type QP circuit breakers, except for one 15-amp line that is for the hard-wired smoke alarms- it uses a Square D type break...	Some research says that a QP circuit breaker is the 1" or 2" wide breakers that protect a 110V or 220V circuit respectively, and is made by Siemens. Breakers aren't normally meant to be mixed and matched...
What is the best way to remove spray paint from a blacktop driveway? I have an area on my blacktop driveway that some kids thought needed some spray paint, what is the best way to remove it without damaging the blacktop? <Q> Black spray paint? <A> Anything you do to dissolve the paint or with a pressure washer will als...	I'd vote for a good pressure washer, as tar can be messy stuff since it too will probably dissolve under the action of paint stripper.
Small amounts of moss on asphalt shingles? What's the best way to remove moss from asphalt shingles? <Q> Moss is there for a reason. <S> It grows because there is moisture. <S> Typically overhanging tree limbs and shade are the problem. <S> You want to cut back the branches over the house so that your roof will get suf...	A piece of ply wood would do - it will give you a large edge to scrape the maximum amount of moss off, but won't be too sharp which will reduce the chance of it digging into to the shingles.
Is it worth having two locks in exterior doors? I've noticed that some places have a lock in the knob and a deadbolt in the exterior doors, and some places have a knob without a lock and just a deadbolt. Is there a benefit to having a lock in the knob I'm missing? <Q> The lock in the knob can be set to be locked when ...	Most key-in-knob locksets have some vulnerabilities that make them better as convenience latches than as serious security locks.
How do I fix a "water hammer" problem? When I shut off a water faucet or right after the toilet tank refills after flushing, I hear a vibrating sound in my pipes. It last between one and two seconds. On the interwebs, I found out that it's called "water hammer" and that it can be fixed by draining my plumbing system:...	Since your problem seems to occur on (relatively) slower-acting valves that shouldn't be generating an unacceptable amount of water hammer, you may also just have a section of pipe that's not mounted properly.
How do I clean a very dirty refrigerator? I just got a new house and inherited a very moldy and mildewy refrigerator. My first though it to get some cleaning spray with bleach and just go to town, but I'm worried the bleach might damage the fridge in some way. It's close enough to an outside door that I could take it...	Generally speaking, baking soda is recommended for cleaning and deodorizing the fridge. You do not want to use harsh cleaners as they tend to leave their odor inside and they may harm the plastic and rubber. I've used bleach in the past but you have to rinse it out VERY well.
What is the best way to clean toilet bowl stains? Bought a house a little over a year ago and it was previously a foreclosure and sat for a while. Because of that, it hadn't been cleaned for a while and developed some stains around the water line in all the toilets that we haven't been able to get off. Anyone have an...	I've tried liquid toilet bowl cleaner too, and that can help.
Why is my toilet constantly backing up? I've been in my new house for a few months now, and I end up plunging one of our two toilets about once a week - they tend to swap turns on which one gets to be finicky each week. Is there a more serious cause behind this, or do I just have 'crappy' (hehe) toilets? I don't know i...	It's probably the toilet that is the problem and nothing later in the line.
Is it necessary to connect a boiler and gas meter to the main fuse box? We are getting a new kitchen fitted. An electrical survey has been carried out by the compnay installing kitchen. they have said that, our brand new and recently fitted, boiler needs a earth wire running from itself to the fusebox. As does our old ...	Any metal piping system that is likely to become energized must be bonded, including gas pipes, but the equipment grounding conductor run with the circuit conductors feeding a gas appliance "shall be permitted to serve as the bonding means": I don't think you can earth via the water pipes any more, so that's not an opt...
How can I create circuit diagrams and what program should I use? Circuit diagrams are very handy. On this site, they can really help illustrate the problem or solution (see here ). They can help you visualize what needs to be changed when doing work on your house, and they keep a record of how your house is wired up. ...	That being said, any descent vector drawing program can easily make diagrams like these- one free one that comes to mind is InkScape . I knew a few EE's who used TinyCAD for circuit diagrams. You can use Kicad - open source and very activily supported by users.
Is it an easy task to replace a wall thermostat? As above, is it an easy DIY job to do this safely? In my research into the above it has become apparant that I should consider replacing the old thermostat with a programmable one for energy savings. How does a programmable thermostat produce savings? I assumed the whol...	Replacing a thermostat is trivial, and similar to changing a light switch.
Can I safely power a three-prong electrical device from a light socket? I have a covered lampholder (light socket) outside my house that I want to use to temporarily power a plug-in string of indoor/outdoor lights. Using CFLs, the total wattage of the string of lights will be lower than the rated wattage (100 W) of the...	I have seen exterior light fixtures with a grounded electrical outlet built into them; if you were able to change the light fixture, that would be the safest way to go.
What quick and dirty tool/method should I use for cutting scrap drywall? I have a pile of drywall scrap that's been sitting in my garage for a few years after a remodel, "just in case". My buddy came up with the idea of turning it into "karate boards" for our kids to destroy. Scrap pieces start at half sheet (4x4) an...	If you already have a Dremel or Roto-Zip, you can get drywall bits for them that will make short work of any drywall. The rotozip suggestion is also a good one.
How do I cut nice mitered corners? I will be adding moulding and trim to a few rooms after I lay laminate flooring. I have already done this in one room and I was really discouraged with my miter cuts. In most corners, I had a gap of at least 1/4" that I had to fill with caulk even though I set my compound miter saw to...	Keep in mind that for inside corners, you shouldn't be using miter cuts at all -- you should cope them instead.
How do I get the stem out of a hose bib to replace the washer? I have no idea why this isn't simple, perhaps because every repair project has to have some hitch in it to piss me off. I have a leaky hose bib in my back yard, so I wanted to take the sucker apart and replace the washer in the valve stem, right? Well, I...	Once the packing is removed, the stem should unscrew easily. Verify that you have the correct size washer, and put the new one in.
What's the easiest process for cutting bathroom flooring tiles to fit complex door trim? I'm going to be laying in some fairly heavy-duty vinyl bathroom flooring tiles (similar to the Armstrong Caliber product, although I'm not sure it's actually that brand). The bathroom has some tough corners to match, which I will...	I would cut the bottom of the trim so the tile can slide underneath.
What is the best way to remove and prevent leaf stains on concrete pavers? We have a brand new paver stone walkway/patio. To my dismay, I noticed that their were leaf and acorn stains from the oak tree in the front yard. I've learned my lesson and I'm going to try to keep the walkway swept more regularly. Will these s...	I just mix bleach and water in my sprayer and spray the stains.
Why is my refrigerator so loud? Can I fix this? I live in a small NYC apartment and my refrigerator is close to the bedroom. When it kicks on, it's makes a loud thunk/click, and can be enough to wake me up. (While running it's pretty quiet.) I think it's the fan in the freezer. The maintenance folks have replaced it o...	Try replacing the compressor motor mounts and/or make sure the compressor is not bumping something when it starts.
About how much would replacing a septic tank cost me? We recently had our septic system inspected and were informed that the tanks themselves were shot and would need to be replaced. I'm in the process of getting estimates but in the meantime, I was wondering if someone could describe the procedure and ballpark costs....	Enhanced, engineered or alternative septic systems that use mounds, sand/peat filters, aerobic systems and/or constructed wetlands can cost $10,000 -$20,000 or more, according to the Rhode Island Regional Water Quality Program. Locally estimates are in the 50K-100K range to go from design to installation.
Can you cap a chimney to reduce moisture and still use the chimney with a gas fire? Or does capping a chimney always remove the ability to use a fire ? <Q> I'm pretty sure that you can get caps that allow you to still use a gas fire. <S> Consult an expert though. <A> Yes, you can, but definately consult an expert lik...	The only practical solution is to line the flue (with a metal liner) and remove the damper (if this was a wood burning fireplace, originally.
What are my options to level out my air conditioner? The air conditioner on the side of my house is on a small slab of concrete. Over time, it has started to tilt as the land has settled. We just recently moved in and a few of the neighbors have givens us advice, almost all of which is different. What options do I h...	If pad has settled, lift pad with pry bar or piece of 2-by-4, then force gravel or rocks under concrete to level it. I would jack it up with a crowbar or new 2x4.
What size dowels to use for joints? I'm comfortable with the process of creating and joining wood with dowels, but I'm not sure what size dowels to use in which cases? Specifically, I'm working with 1" thick stock (3/4" actual), what size should I use? What are the other sizes and lengths of dowels used for? Are ther...	Thirds is a pretty good rule of thumb especially for furniture sized joinery.
How do I join 2x4s without mitering? I asked this question on the Bicycles site: DIY wooden bike rack — looking for plans I'm planning to build this rack out of 2x4 pieces of wood. It'll live in my garage. I'm looking to make a rack similar to one of these, but simpler and, obviously, not made of metal: ( photo cr...	I made the simplest possible bike rack by butting them together and nailing them. Unless you want it to look pretty I'd stick with lap-type joints, where the pieces overlap each other. The best joint to use in this case would be a dado:
How do I clean vinyl siding without a pressure washer? My vinyl siding is turning green from mildew and I have to clean it up this weekend. I let a friend borrow my pressure washer at the beginning of the summer, and he's out of the country for awhile. I'm working that angle to try and get it back. I called for a re...	Jomax and bleach worked for me too. I think that spray and rinse will do it.
What are the pros and cons of a cultured marble tub? I'm in the middle of a bathroom remodel (tear-out done), and the next step is to choose a tub. From a materials perspective, what are the pros and cons of using a cultured marble tub? For instance, resistance to scratching and chipping, noise, color-fastness over tim...	From what I could find, the material itself is quite resilient against damage, mold, and color fading. That being said, the largest objection has been personal preference as some people consider cultured marble to look "dated".
What should I look for in a Whole House Fan I see a lot of variance in the prices of whole house fans in the market, and not a lot of clarity or comparison between vendors and models. We're looking to buy some to install in our newly purchased duplex. What are some things to look for and common issues or concerns wi...	After sorting through all of information out there, Here's what I'd look for: Quiet operation - This allows you to run the fan during the coolest hours of the day (the nighttime, while you sleep) and get the maximum cooling effect.
How do I care for the land area directly above a septic tank? Any suggestions for how to care for the land area directly above a septic tank? I'm a first-time home buyer with a septic tank in my front yard. I'd like it to be aesthetically pleasing and consistent with the rest of the yard but didn't know if there was ...	You can pretty much do anything above a septic tank, as long as you aren't going to be doing major landscaping that requires tractors, heavy equipment, etc..
Is this electrical junction up to code? I was up in my attic a few days ago, and I noticed a pretty ugly electrical junction that wasn't in a junction box. Here's the pic: Is this up to code? FWIW I live in north Alabama, outside city limits. However I'm assuming there are general building codes that would govern this...	It looks as if you might have a lot of slack in those wires. Staples: if you run wires across the joists, they should be stapled to keep them in place between the furring strips (that you also need; see #5). ALL splices must be in an approved junction box. Just because the inspector didn't mention it, doesn't mean it's...
How do I fill a hole under a sidewalk? The sidewalk leading up to my front door developed what looked like a sink hole under it about a year ago. Since then, an animal of some kind has made the hole even bigger and it now runs as a tunnel under my pathway. QUESTION:How to I fill this hole most effectively? Obviously...	A concrete leveling company could do the job.
How do I install a receptacle box in lath/plaster wall? I have a room with ungrounded electrical receptacles and I need to install a grounded outlet. The walls are lath and plaster. What I want to do is install a new receptacle box for the outlet. Is there a way to do this without having a big hole to repair? Basically...	With a remodeling box, you just have to cut a hole big enough for the box, whereas if you use a regular box, you have to cut away more The main difficulties you'll face are that you don't know exactly where the lath is placed within the wall, and that the plaster will be brittle with age. You might consider the smaller...
Can a portable air conditioner be used to reduce moisture in a room? I live in a flat in an older house and I have the disadvantage of living next to an outer wall. In autums/springs there is a period when the central heating isn't turned on yet, but it's already getting cold outside. During this time the wall (and gen...	The reason I said portable A/C with dehumidifier is during the summer you can remove the water and stay cool.
How do I eliminate the "whooshing" sound of water running though pipes? At every faucet and toilet in our house, when water is running, it creates a loud wooshing noise in the walls. I'm not sure how else to describe it, but it's like the normal "oh I can hear the sink or toilet on upstairs" but VERY loud. What, if an...	If you already have a pressure reducing valve, you can try to adjust it. Noises can also be caused by over pressurization of the plumbing system.
Should I install baseboards before or after skimcoating? My bathroom walls were a mix of plaster and drywall with various layers of paint, primer, and skim coating. I attempted to skim coat the walls myself to prepare for priming and painting, but I wasn't happy with the results so I hired someone to do it right. The w...	I'd say you should definitely prime first, and afterwards prime the spots your drywall guy skimmed again. I agree with baseboard last.
Is this an acceptable way to add a light to a 3-way circuit? I have three way switches at the top and bottom of my stairs. There is a light at the top of the stairs controlled by the switches and I wish to add a light at the bottom. A 14/2 runs first to the light at the top (hot and neutral from the breaker), then a 1...	In addition, if A and B are on different phases and there's a problem with the neutral, you could have 240V across all your devices. Don't over complicate the job. Put the light fixtures, as many as you want, in a simple parallel circuit from the existing one with 14/2wg/nm and you will be fine and confirm to current c...
What do I do when a horizontal rod for a popup drain is too short? My contractor just installed a Delta Arzo Two Handle Widspread Lavatory 3586LF into a Kohler Persuade Curv top and basin lavatory, K-2956-8. The problem is that the horizontal rod for the popup drain is not long enough to connect to the lifting rod str...	From what I can tell of the parts diagram , you may be able to slide some hardware off of the original rod and back on to your custom cut rod of the same diameter.
What kind of glue can be used to join flat drive belt and v-belt? For my special project I need to join flat drive belt with a v-belt (the wider part of it's profile to be precise). Due to the nature of their application such combined part will be rotating with most of the power transfered via the v-belt (it is suppose...	If you glue the belts while flat, they won't curve, and if you glue them curved, they'll want to stay curved. And my last choice would be basic rubber cement ...
Why is my two way dimmer switch not working? So I am putting in a dimmer switch, replacing a simple single pole switch. It is a simple two way, single pole dimmer, should be pretty easy. The existing switch works fine. AFter installation, the light is always on, turning the dimmer off, and moving the slider up and d...	The rest of the circuitry in the dimmer is designed to operate on AC mains voltages, so the small DC voltage that your multimeter drives through the dimmer isn't enough to turn on any of the transistors in the conduction path, so you're reading it as being open-circuit.
Should I add a return air vent in a refinished basement? We are refinishing our basement, and are nearing competition. The walls are drywalled, and the ceiling is dropped. There will be about 500 sq ft of finished space, including a full bathroom, and about 300 sq ft of unfinished space. There are two existing vents...	In the winter you want the cold air to be drawn through the return registers leaving the hot air behind. In some installations a central return duct and grill is installed in a central location to reduce cost,( this has become the norm) but is only to save costs. Yes , add at least 1 return at or near the floor ( in th...
How do I find where mice are entering my house? So the house I just finished remodeling, and am now living in, has a small mouse problem. We have caught a couple of mice, and suspect there may be more. Catching the mice does little good, if more mice are just walking on in. I have walked around the entire house, and...	As for checking on your own, I'd look for a trail of mouse droppings or urine sprays. Or, wait until dark and shine a light through possible cracks, either from inside or outside, and have an assistant on the other side alert you to any light shining through. I only say drop the money on a professional because I REALLY...
If my air conditioner return line iced over and the fan stopped, is it broken? We've lived in our house for three summers and have never had any problems with the air conditioner. Today I noticed that there was ice on the coolant return line outside the house. I didn't think anything of it. Later in the day (now), the...	My problem was a bad run capacitor for the blower, With the air handling unit fan (blower) not running properly this caused my suction line to freeze up.
How to seal small cracks in wood door? We have a solid-core wooden front-door and would like to repaint it as our dog has scratched it many times (ahh the joys of pet ownership). We've sanded down the rough spots on the door but we noticed some hair-line cracks in the groove between the panel and the mullion. The cr...	So, just because it can be sanded once dry, I think a wood epoxy would be best.
How do I uninstall a receptacle when the wires are stuck? I just installed a receptacle in my basement and I realized I need to reinstall it someplace else. The leads are inserted into the holes behind the receptacle and I can't get them out! The instructions "push to release" are printed on the back of the receptacl...	One thing to try is to push the wire into the receptacle and then press the lock release and then gently pull the wire out. I have a bunch of tools that will fit in the release, but a crappy all metal fork is what I used. Receptacles cost less than a dollar each.
How do I remove drip marks in flat paint on smooth interior walls? I recently had the walls and ceiling in my home office refinished with a smooth texture. When I was painting the walls, in a couple of the corners, I bumped the roller against the adjacent wall. I didn't notice this until after the paint dried so now ...	The sanding sponges work great. If the painting was recent (within say a month or so), and is still a bit rubbery, you can do a great job using a single-edge razor blade to slice off just the offending drip.
How do I remove glued-on carpet? I'm trying to remove carpet from a small closet in our bathroom (at most 3.5 ft by 3.5 ft). I started to remove it and it looks to have been glued around the perimeter. What's the easiest way to remove it? I recently bought a oscillating multi-tool so I'm wondering if that would work t...	I used the scraper to get it clean to the wood.
Should I drill a large hole through a double paned window? I have a laundry room in the basement. There is no exhaust vent for the dryer. Currently we just open the window when drying, but this is not the greatest solution. There is a window and it is double paned glass. It seems to me this is probably the easiest ...	It will almost surely crack when you tried to drill it, if not, then later. If not, then you could remove the entire glass double glazing unit and replace it with an insulated board of the same dimensions. We couldn't make any structural changes, but found a cheap insulated board, made the hole, fitted it into the door...
What is your best wire management solution for an entertainment system and a home office? What gadgets or devices have you used to help manage wires or cords at home for the entertainment system are and for the home office? <Q> It's by no means an all-in-one solution <S> but I've personally found Velcro Cable Ties to...	For non-visible stuff, I'll echo others here, I just use velcro ties, twist ties, or zip ties, depending on how permanent it is (and what I have on hand).
Is it necessary to sand before the last coat of oil paint? When I'm painting high-gloss oil-based on woodwork (architraves, skirtingboards, windows), I have been following the tin's advice and sanding between all coats. I don't resent sanding after the undercoat/primer because it helps provide a smooth finish, but the...	Definitely I wouldn't sand the second layer if I wanted to apply the third one.
How do I achieve required torque when using an impact driver? There's such tool called impact driver (like this one for example). The manual says it uses a special mechanism to produce a series of torque impulses to fasten/loosen nuts and screws. The tool has only two adjustments - the forward/reverse switch and t...	Assuming the torque can in fact be adjusted you can use a regular hand-help torque wrench to get a pretty close calibration.
Should I put caulk/silicone at base of toilet on hardwood floors? When installing a toilet in a bathroom with hardwood floors, should I put a bead of silicone or caulk around the base to finish things up? Is this necessary, or is it merely aesthetics? I have heard that I should put silicone down, but not caulk. I'm not...	I've always used caulk because it prevents any, uh, splashes, from running under the toilet where they'd be hard to clean up.
Is installing a chimney liner a DIY project? My chimney (25ft approximately, one story house) was recently inspected and the guy recommended a chimney liner for the furnace due to the grouting having been eaten away. He quoted $2000 for the parts and labor. It looks like this should be a fairly simple thing to install...	It may cost more than trying to doing it yourself, but will be a lot cheaper than having a pro come in to fix your mistakes, plus you can sleep well at night knowing that that warming fire in your house is your friend and not a potential killer. I am a general contractor and wouldn't consider doing that job myself, I a...
How to reduce noise while drilling? Unfortunately I can only drill in the late afternoon or during weekends, but my area is very quiet and I would really like to avoid driving my neighbours mad... So is there anything I can do to make drilling (masonry) less noisy? <Q> Not really. <S> Drilling is an inherently noisy...	Also try slowing the drill down. Technically your only option is to replace an impact drill with a pneumatic hammer - the latter drills much faster (so you produce noise for shorter periods) and the noise is different - lower frequencies (IMO less annoying).
What are some cost-effective tips for reducing external sound from entering a room? I have a small office room that shares a wall with our living room. When we have guests over, their voices travel fairly well; they sound somewhat muffled but are still audible. As I work from home occasionally, I'd like to reduce any...	Something to consider for blocking sound coming through the walls or ceilings would be to add another layer of drywall, separated from the first with a thin layer of vibration-damping material: searching for this technique Insulation will help you lot in this case.
What is a strong glue for bonding metal? I have a (cheap) garage door that has the metal frames/hinges connected to the actual metal door by some kind of glue. The glue on one part of the frame has broken off. What is a glue that is strong enough to hold 2 pieces of metal together? This is about a 1.5 foot length of...	"J-B Weld" original cold weld formula, should more then do the trick. There are a number of adhesives on the market that will achieve a strong structural metal to metal (or metal to composite) bond.
Where can I find LED indoor floodlights? Where can I find LED Indoor Floodlights? I have recessed lighting and one of the lights over a nook in my house gets the person hot who sits under the light for too long - plus LED is more energy efficient. I currently have a halogen indoor flood light installed. <Q> Most of the...	You can also get the recessed light floods in LED form at Target down here, although Home Depot really seems to have the best selection in a lot of areas.
How do I attach a ledger board if I have no interior access? I would like to build a small, 24" high deck, for a new entry door to the house. I have the deck plans all laid out, and am in need of a 2x10 ledger board under the door to attach the deck to. Most of what I have read on attaching a ledger board, suggests u...	Heavy lag bolts are probably ok.
How do I make my floors more stable? My builder did (what seems to me) a cut rate job on my floors. When I walk around in my house my table and entertainment center (and other such things) shake as I walk past them. (Heaven help me if someone jumps!) My basement is not finished, so I can get at the underside of my f...	Running a bead of liquid nails on the joists just before you lay down a sheet of plywood greatly locks things together. Alternatively, cross-brace the joists. I'd get another builder in to take a look and quote for remedial work and then try and get the first builder to either sort out the problem or pay for someone el...
Can I replace an outlet that uses knob and tube wiring with a grounded outlet? Can I replace an outlet that uses knob and tube wiring with a grounded outlet? Obviously the best choice would be to replace the old wiring. Is there a standard way to ground these outlets? Do I need to run a wire back to the circuit breaker...	A trick to avoid opening the walls is to run the new wire in the (unfinished) basement or attic, then drill up from the basement or down from the attic into the wall where you want the receptacle. The answer is no; all your wires have to be in the same conduit (see also this question ) and any rework of existing wiring...
What is a UFCL brand circuit? I'm shopping for a combination vent fan/light for a bathroom, and some of the ones I've found state this: UL Listed for use over bathtubs and showers when connected to a GFCI protected branch circuit. 7 1/8" high housing, 4" round duct connector. Not for use over cooking surfaces. U...	One of the sites which I found, that described Nutone fan installation on a UFCL brand circuit, also said that a particular fan was "Rated 70 cubic little legs per few minutes". Since the National Electrical Code is part of the NFPA standards, that would imply that the circuit must meet requirements for a bathroom circ...
Are there other advantages to using turf over grass seed besides getting instant results? As I mentioned in a previous post, I'm planning to eventually have a lawn in our front yard (right now, it's bare due to septic work). I'm confused on if there are clear advantages to using turf vs just planting the seed. As fa...	Turf and grass seed both have some advantages and disadvantages in many ways i.e., it depends upon the situation while choosing the right decision for your lawn.
What can (and cannot) be put down drains that are connected to septic systems? This might be more appropriate as a community wiki... We have a septic system and I'm extremely paranoid about what can (and cannot) be put down our sink drains. I know the general answer is "nothing but water" but I'm particularly curious...	Basically, you just don't want to put any harsh chemicals in there that will kill the bacteria eating away at the waste. Also avoid paper products that wont break down.
What are the pros and cons of vinyl gutters? I need to add some gutters to part of our house and I'm seriously considering vinyl gutters because they seem REALLY easy to setup (with minimal tools required too). That being said, I've heard some people say they're more prone to problems such as leaking. Is there truth ...	If the gutters aren't fitted correctly then any system will leak. Brackets used for vinyl should also be designed to allow some sliding movement, otherwise the brackets are liable to work loose over time.
Is there a quick way to clean up walnuts from a yard? I'm renting a house and it has a walnut tree in the yard which has started dropping hundreds of walnuts all over the place. Picking them up by hand seems like it'd be messy and very slow. Is there a quick way to clean these things up? A scoop shovel doesn't seem ...	You need a Roller Nut Harvester !
What can I use to lubricate a new kitchen faucet no longer turns? I installed a new kitchen faucet about 6 months ago. However, it no longer turns/swivels at the base. My non-expert inspection of the problem seems to suggest that the point-of-swivel has a build up of hard water or other kind of water-deposit. I beli...	The Only grease you should use on these is Silicone Grease. Use CLR to dissolve the buildup from hard water.
How can I stop bulbs from buzzing when dimmed? I've got some hanging lights with "Fat Albert" bulbs that are plugged into a dimmer switch. When they're dimmed to certain levels, the bulbs make a soft buzzing sound. The buzz is amplified and directed straight down because of the shape of the shade. It's quite annoyin...	You could also try halogen bulbs or even dimmable CFLs.
Can I use my shower while grout is curing? I just recaulked my front bath and accidentally popped loose a tile in the process. I reinstalled the tile and allowed that to set before grouting. I just finished grouting the tile, and I read on the interwebs you should allow grout to cure for at least a week before sealin...	While you can use the shower after the grout is dried you may need to leave it for a day or two after it's cured before sealing.
What should I do with a double gang box if I no longer need two separate switches? We're relocating our TV to a side of our living room that has a power outlet controlled by a wall switch. The switch is part of a double gang box (1 switch controls the porch light, the other controls the outlet). I don't want people to...	Take out the switch, wire nut the wires together, and get a cover with one switch hole and one blank. The only way I know of to do this is to use the "decora" style blanks , and then either a duplex decora plate , or a combination toggle/decora plate .
Can I mix brands of chainsaw chains? I have a Stihl 260 chainsaw, with a 3/8" chain and a 20" bar. What criteria do I need to apply when picking a second chainsaw chain? <Q> I'll defer to the experts but personally, I wouldn't mix brands of chainsaw chains. <S> I seem to recall that Stihl chain designs help reduce/p...	my advice is stick with the stihl chains they are desighned for your saw
Should I stop to hand-sharpen my chainsaw, or bring extra chains? If I'm going to spend the day in the woods with the chainsaw, my chain will get dull before I'm done. Should I learn to hand-file the cutters, and sharpen in the woods? Or should I bring a spare chain (or two!) and swap them out? I would get them shar...	I brought a spare chain and my sharpening kit. Another option is a battery powered dremel tool with a round stone to sharpen blades.
How can I locate the pump in a wet open-vented central heating system? Lost: One Central Heating Pump. Reward offered (in reputation points ;) I have a wet open-vented central heating system, and I've turned it on after six months to find the radiators aren't getting hot. We suspect the pump is clogged with sediment. ...	If they are baseboard style, modern radiators, then my gut says the pump is near the boiler, and since you can't find it, perhaps built into that unit.
How do I repair screw holes in a brick wall? I have screw holes which were put in to support a curtain rail. The curtain's been pulled out a few times by accident, and now the screw holes are crumbling and I don't know how to repair that portion of the wall. I want to get it firm again, then re-drill and put the rail ...	I've found that the easiest solution is to use filler on the holes and plaster work to get a smooth finish and then drill new holes somewhere else.
What can I do to keep my shed (or house) free of spiders? I've got an old shed at the end of my garden, this summer I gave it a complete cleanout, but within a few weeks it was back to its cobweb infested state. Being quite an arachnaphobe, it makes getting stuff in/out quite an uncomfortable challenge. I'm thinking o...	Regularly apply spray pesticides to the exterior surface of the shed to discourage insects from hanging around.
Why do some painters leave a gap between the wall and the ceiling? I've noticed that (at least here in Germany) some walls are painted so that a tiny fraction of the upper wall has the same color as the ceiling. Why do people do that? I find this not so pretty. <Q> Surely this is down to personal preference, but here i...	It would be easier to apply painter's masking tape that way - If you try to get tape right to the edge, it might lift in places and allow paint the bleed underneath.
How can I keep leftover drywall mud from drying out in the box? I'm not quite sure how much drywall mud I'll be using for my upcoming project so I'm planning to buy a box of it. Assuming that I have some left over, is there a technique for not wasting it? Will it last for awhile if I make sure to tie up the bag again...	Without knowing much about how those boxes seal, I'd recommend going with a bucket- the buckets/lids seal air tight which is important for keeping the mud from drying out.
How do I remove baseboard that has been tiled over? The previous owner installed tile without re-installing the original baseboard. We are trying to remove the baseboard in preparation for installing laminate flooring. Afterwards our plan is to install new baseboard above the laminate flooring. We started in a close...	Easiest way that I found is to take an angle grinder and cut the old baseboards level with the old tile.
How do I air-seal a range hood flute? My new kitchen included a new exterior flute for a new range hood. Few months later, I opened the cover for some maintanace reason and saw that the flexible flute is basically going through the ceiling via a hole cut into the ceiling. The circular hole has about 1-2" space around...	The fire stop plate can be sealed to the drywall with silicone caulk and to the flue duct with aluminum foil HVAC tape for an air tight bond.
How do I consistently drive drywall screws to the correct depth? Is there a special technique or tool for consistently placing drywall screws correctly? I'm using a standard Dewalt DWD115K (with no auto-stop mechanism) so I'm usually paranoid of going too deep with screws... which results in stopping the screw befo...	Just make sure you get a screwdriver that fits the screw head quite tightly. Certainly you will get better with practice. Just take it steady and don't worry too much.
Are receptacle surge protectors a practical solution? After mounting my television on the wall, I would like to put a receptacle behind it so the power cord will be hidden. While planning this I was trying to figure how to get a surge protector to be hidden behind the TV as well, then I came across a surge protection...	If you only want to surge protect your TV, this might make sense.
What is the best way to remove a non load bearing wall? I have a wall that I want to knock out as part of a kitchen remodel. The wall is non load bearing, so its fine to take out. The question is, what's the best way to do it? I imagine there's not a whole lot of finesse to it, but are there are some techniques to a...	Once you're prepared, taking plaster walls down is pretty easy, whack it with a hammer to bust a hole, then you can usually get a shovel or pitchfork behind the plaster and it will pull away from the lathe easily as you break the keyway that holds it in.
What are the best materials for non-toxic wooden blocks? I want to make wooden blocks for my baby girl. If successful, I would like to sell wooden block sets online too. Requirements: (by order of importance) Non-toxic Cheap & readily available Durable (doesnt chip, can withstand baby's watery mouth) Easy to work...	I'd recommend something like maple. Use wood coloring, rather than paint.
What are the pros and cons of various hardwood floor finishes? Trying to decide how to stain/finish some new oak hardwood floors. What are the pros and cons of various options like stain+poly, tung oil, etc. I'm wondering about lifetime cost, durability, ability to make small repairs, and work involved. <Q> I have done...	Durable Low maintenance Easy to apply Short dry time (~3 hours) Stain+poly probably wins on durability, but I've never liked the look; and things like Waterlox come close in durability, and are much easier to repair or touch up.
Do I have to do anything special when laying a shed? Ie foundations/bases etc? I know there is already a similar question but focused on plastic sheds My question is, I'm thinking of investing in a shed for my garden, but do I need to do any preparation or can I literally just start setting it up? I have an area in ...	So yes, you need a foundation, but as @ChrisF notes, it can be simple.
How do I drill additional holes for adjustable-height shelving? I have a set of cupboards with shelves that adjust in height, by means of moving pins that hold up the shelves to different holes: Unfortunately, for some reason, whoever made the cupboards didn't put in enough holes. Thus: is it possible to drill anothe...	There are jigs available at woodwork supply stores to do just what you need, along with special drill bits that will go the proper depth, since you're dealing with existing holes, you might need to find one that will line up with those.

Subsets and Splits

No community queries yet

The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.