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train · 95.7k rows

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How do I fix a slow draining garbage disposal? I put an avocado skin down my garbage disposal, and since then, the sink doesn't drain well. If I run water for 10+ seconds, it fills up the disposal a decent amount, and will drain if I turn on the disposal or turn off the water. I've reached in to the disposal, and f...	If your disposal has a rubber drain plug have someone hold it firmly in place while you plunge.
Can I alter the 'timing' of my toilet flush? I have a standard, normal flow toilet, with a problem. When the toilet is flushed, it seems to start refilling the bowl with water from the tank too soon, before the waste has had a chance to drain away. The result is that the toilet paper/waste just kind of floats around a...	You can adjust how full the tank gets, usually with a small screw where the float attaches to the vertical filling tube.
How do I add veneer stone to an exterior painted wall? I have an exterior painted wall and am interested in installing a stone veneer. I realize that I may have to install wire mesh to the areas but I'm wondering if there is a material that can be used to apply to the stone to the painted wall without mesh? Or should t...	If your substrate is CMU or concrete then you can sandblast it, remove the residue and install stone veneer with a polymer modified mortar or thinset.
How could I flatten these warped sleepers layed on uneven concrete to an acceptable level? The concrete in my basement is, as most concrete is, very uneven. I was building up my subfloor to match an existing floor, so I got about 200 board feet of PT 4x4 and ripped 1/2" off using a table saw followed by a planer. Then ...	If there are significant irregularities after shaving the ridges, you can tack down shims in the gap spaces. Instead of a wooden subfloor, you could fill it with self-leveling concrete. When you come to lay the floor there is no support for the floor edge at the wall between these 90 degree pieces. Dry fit the plywood ...
How does Underfloor Heating get the right temperature water via a Thermal Store? I am considering my options for a renovation project which will require substantial changes to my central heating and domestic hot water system. I was considering going a thermal store with a biomass boiler (wood pellet) and solar thermal,...	Radiant heat systems use a boiler system which heats the water to the desired temperature for the system in question. The system you are considering needs to be designed by a professional with experience in such systems.
How should I remove the texture from the ceiling without tearing it out? We want to get rid of the texture on our ceiling. It's a very ugly stipple effect. However, there's a foot and a half of insulation over this ceiling. Knocking it down to install new drywall is not an option. We also don't really want to sl...	Alternatively, a drywaller can skimcoat over the top of it, then re-texture to your liking. First you have to knock down the high spots with a scraper. The problem with re-hanging the drywall on the ceiling is the risk of getting halfway across the lid and finding that the framing no longer aligns with the joints.
How can I determine why my lights are flickering? I have a child at home who has learning difficulties. Sometimes she jumps up and down on the floor. Recently this has caused the downstairs living room light to flicker. Upstairs under the floorboards I found a connector block with the three wires from the living roo...	Light fixtures that are subject to vibration can fail because the center contact in the fixture has moved away from the bulb. Check the wire insulation too. You shouldn't be testing live circuits with a screw driver, that's a going to get you killed. but I'm sure you know that mains power can easily kill and if you don...
Exhaust fixture for venting bathroom fan through roof I'm planning to install a roof vent for a bathroom exhaust fan I'm putting in. I'm thinking about using one of these : but I was wondering if I need to worry about it getting blocked by ice or snow? (I live in Minnesota.) <Q> Such a vent terminal can work, depend...	but yes, any vent on a horizontal or semi-horizontal surface can get blocked by snowfall. If you must vent on the roof, this is where it should go, regardless of the type.
How do I remove a chimney? I've got a chimney in my 50's-era house that doesn't do anything. It's a regular brick and mortar chimney but it used to be used to vent the old oil heater (it's been converted to natural gas since). The chimney isn't used any more. I don't believe it's structural. Let's assume it's not but I...	One cool trick on chimneys with a large flue opening and a clean out on the bottom is to drop the bricks one at a time to the bottom and have a helper remove them and stack them at the bottom.
Why does my dusk to dawn light go off when the furnace kicks in? My dusk to dawn light goes off whenever my furnace kicks in throughout the night. It obviously comes back on right away, but it takes a minute or so to be fully restored. What is the reason behind this and how can I fix this? <Q> Understanding the probl...	You'd need an DSO (digital storage oscilloscope) on the line to your light to see what power spikes are appearing when the furnace kicks in, but checking the furnace to make sure it's on a dedicated circuit would be a good start.
Should I be worried about this gap in electrical conduit? Background My project this weekend is to get my garage repowered so my tenant will be able to plug his car in during the winter months. When I bought my house it was recently renovated by house flippers who made the basement into a suite and I suspect they used...	Protection from weather is an issue, you do not want water or debris entering the wiring space. The tubing can rust away below ground.
Can I shave the bottom of a metal casement window to get it to close fully? I have a Casement Window installed that, as the new building has begun to settle, now has to be forced closed. It is on the verge of breaking the crank off now because it is so difficult. While wood is easy to shave to help fit, the window and ...	Remounting the frame will solve the problem and leave your window intact.
Why does water surge out of the shower head after being turned off? This can happen 30 minutes later or even many hours later after a shower is taken. The new shower fixture installed didn't solve the problem. Can anything be done to correct this and prevent this surge of water? <Q> By surge of water, I'm guessing you...	My guess is that changes in atmospheric pressure cause the water to come out of the shower head after-the-fact.
Door replacement - will door still be solid after cutting? I need to replace/repair a door in my rented apartment. During a rather rowdy party one of my guests managed to put a hole in my bathroom door. I don't think that there is probably anyway to repair the door cleanly. (If you look carefully I drilled a whol...	A fair amount of the bottom of the door is usually solid so that you can cut the size smaller, but this will vary. Use a couple of 1x4 boards on either side of the door and some good sized C-Clamps to tighten up the glue joint so that the glue can dry without any gaps.
How to address mold/moss on newer roof? I have an old house with a new(er) installed roof shingle that's about 5 years old. In removing leaves from the gutter today, I noticed green moss? mold? around some of the areas close to the house. A couple of questions: Should I worry about this? (does it reduce the effective...	There's certainly more important things to worry about in life, but, yes, Moss will, over time, shorten the lifespan of asphalt shingles.
What could cause clothes to come out of the dryer with tiny burn or scorch marks? I have a fairly standard Hotpoint vented electric tumble dryer, which normally works as you would expect, drying clothes, venting the humid air out the side wall, and with a lint trap I empty every load. Over the past couple of months, t...	Over time they wear down and cause the drum to sit lower than it should, which then pinches your clothes between the drum and the housing. The air heater has a thermal limit switch that is supposed to break power to the elements if they're overheating. It could also be the front drum glides on your model.
What is the proper deck footing depth in Connecticut? I'm moving a deck footing for an existing deck, the current one is in the wrong location and it's too small. What is the proper depth in Connecticut in order to ensure that it doesn't suffer from frost heaving? <Q> Some research says the frost line in CT is aroun...	You need to place the footings deeper than the frost line.
How do I determine the ideal height stool for a given height surface (table, counter, bar, etc.)? My immediate need is to ensure that I'm matching the right height stools to a kitchen island, but I assume there's a standard difference that's ideal for an eating seat to be from the eating surface? (Note that I don't wa...	There are common established heights for table/counter surface and seating combinations.
How do you navigate an unfinished attic? My attic only has plywood around our HVAC. The rest is just covered with cellulose insulation. How do people get around their unfinished attics? I've been up with a flashlight trying to judge where the beams are, but I know it's just one missed step before my legs are hanging t...	Get a shrub rake with plastic tines and just rake the insulation out of the way until you can see the tops of the beams where you need to walk.
Can I hang a heavy weight from a concrete ceiling if I reinforce it with fiberglass? I'm investigating the possibility of hanging a pull-up bar/ rock-climbing training board from the concrete ceiling in my apartment. The slab is 180mm (7inches) thick and the (static) weight which I would need to support would be 70-90k...	The tensile strength of the concrete is also not the concern. The correct answer here is to not hang the load from points on the ceiling, which will damage the structure and could make you liable for losses due to the damage, but to build a structure that will spread the load on the floor. The best ones are insertable ...
Do I need to cut into my drywall to install a switch? I'm looking to put a light in outside my house. The light is going to be positioned directly behind the outlet I have pictured below where the wires are sticking out. I want the switch to control power to this light: I suspect it to be using this kind of gang bo...	You probably are better off loosening the clamps that hold the wire in, removing the existing box, rerouting the wire from that box to the new box for the fixture and running another set of wires from the switch box to the new box. Cut 1 piece of drywall to fit the huge gaping hole you made. Only the switch will be on ...
What's the right connector for connecting #12 solid copper to #14 stranded? Still working on installing my exhaust fan. It required a dedicated 20A circuit so I ran #12 copper. The wiring from the unit appears to be #14 stranded. It's also silver colored but I don't know if that means it's aluminum. I need to connect o...	You can properly use the push in connectors, from Ideal, if you are careful.
Could a disconnected ground wire in the breaker box have caused any problems? A major home improvement company renovated the outside of our home. During the process the subcontractor jacked into our breaker box without permission and without the use of an electrician. After complaining we finally hired an electrician t...	No harm, no foul, sorta.
Is it possible to paint concrete pavers I have a large paved area that I would like to replace with lawn. My plan is to use some of the pavers as a border. They're plain concrete pavers (450x450mm) that look like this except about 20 years old: I was thinking about painting them a nice cream colour. Has anyone ever...	There are several methods to color concrete after it has cured.
Does it matter which 3-way switch I put a dimmer at on a 4-way circuit? I was working a side job today and re-wired quite a few 3 and 4-way circuits. I have a good understanding on how each work, but when I hooked up a 3-way dimmer on a 4-way circuit, the light would come on only if I had a certain switch on. Basical...	When replacing an on/off switch with a dimmer switch, you must make sure the type of switch (standard, 3-way, 4-way) matches.
Appropriate tool to remove wires in push wire I have several switches that have the push wire in the back and I'm going to replace each one with new ones. However, nearly all of them are using the push wire technique and its deep. I have on a set of these , but apparently, they don't go deep enough. Any technique I ...	When you replace the outlets / switches with new ones do use the screws instead of the poke in wire holes.
How do I fix a Bostitch nail gun that is jammed? I have a Bostitch nail gun (pneumatic) and it has been working fine all day until about 30 minutes ago. I went to nail in a piece of molding, and when I pulled the trigger I heard air feed into nozzle, but not the normal noise I hear when a nail is actually driven into ...	If you have a good lumber yard that sells Bostich tools, they often stock the parts and will be helpful in helping you fix your tool. Make sure the nails are the proper gauge for the gun.
Is it likely that there is lead in the varnish of my old 1930's hardwood floor? I have recently uncovered an old (and presumably original circa 1930) hardwood floor in the hallway of my house. Over the past couple of weeks I have been cleaning and sanding it in order to re-varnish (or most likely wax) it. I have not b...	How ever some of the stains that were used did contain lead. Clean the area everyday to avoid tracking it through the house. Get a HEPA bag for your shop vac (available at the big box stores) to contain the dust. Keep small children and pregnant woomen out of the work area.
How large an area is needed to make a paint sprayer worth it? Clearly a paint sprayer cannot be beaten on a very large wall in an empty room when the ceiling is being painted the same as the wall. Likewise in small rooms with carpets and furniture plus lots of windows the time take to mask everything is a lot greater ...	If you're painting the exterior of a house, use a sprayer to do the field (The siding or brick or whatever makes up the bulk of the house) then brush paint the trim. If you are only doing a few rooms, I doubt it would be worth the investment to purchase one.
How proud can a toilet flange sit above the floor? Related to How do I replace this cast iron toilet flange? I've removed the cast iron and am dry fitting the replacement parts. I used a 4" - 3" reducing coupling, 3" pvc and a 3" 90 to line up where the flange needs to go. Problem: With the 90 in place, the flang...	The obvious solution is lower the flange, though very difficult in your case.
What are the implications of driving a drywall screw too far into the sheet? I'm not gonna lie. The early stages of my very first home improvement project completely smacks of novice DIY'er. I did so many things wrong that I've since learned from, but the first mistakes are still glaringly obvious, one of which being...	If you drive the screw so far that it cracks the drywall then you've weakened the hold.
Why does my radiator leak if it's not fully opened or closed? I have a hot water (or steam?) radiator that leaks water unless it's completely open or closed. The side has a valve that can be turned to open or shut the connecting pipe. The other side has a steam vent. If I fully open the valve, everything works proper...	If the boiler works by central control, meaning the steam goes on and off for the whole building to regulate heat, you can regulate the heat put out by the radiator by getting a thermostatically controlled one pipe steam radiator vent valve, or simply getting a smaller vent valve.
When does an under the sink P-Trap assembly need venting? In the realm of second homeowner woes, I had a P-Trap assembly under the bathroom sink. It was a straight connection to the pipe connected to the main sewer line. (least I think that was the case). It was not vented and it worked just fine. But after dealing w...	Without a vent, the water seal in the trap gets sucked out and sewer gases can enter the room.
Lights lowering in the kitchen when turning on microwave oven: symptom of an unstable electric environment? Is it normal for my kitchen lights to lower their intensity for a second when I'm starting my microwave oven? Is it a symptom of a bad/particularly unstable power environment? The reason I am asking is because I...	To detect this, you'd want a voltage tester that's designed to measure household AC voltage and check the voltage at multiple outlets when the microwave is running vs off.
Should I install floating solid bamboo flooring? I have been looking at flooring choices for my new home. The house currently has carpeting on the upper story and a cheap laminate floor on the ground floor. I'm planning on replacing both. I've been very interested in stranded solid bamboo flooring, due to the environm...	If you are concerned more about the sound, Lumber Liquidators has a thick, sound resistant underlayment you can use instead of the standard.
How do I make a Liquid-level-indicator for an overhead sintex water tank I have a 5000 ltr overhead tank atop a 20 meter tower. I wish to make a liquid level indicator, mechanical type, which would indicate to me the liquid level therein the tank, as the tank is made of opaque material. The indication to be at the fo...	You could even install a webcam in the tank itself and measure water levels based on lines painted on the inside.
How to add another network cable? I am buying a house and it has cat-5 cable going to all the rooms. However, it has an RJ-11 plug on it. I'd like to leave that in place and run an additional one or two cat-6 cables. How can I do this without tearing out the drywall? Currently, all the cables terminate in a patch pane...	In theory you could attach other cables to the end of the existing one and pull it through to the new place but in practice it will fail (and you'll be left with nothing).
Whats the easiest way to fix sticky painted furniture so that it's no longer sticky? I sanded and painted a dresser with several coats of 100% acrylic paint, namely, these paints: The paint job turned out good, with one issue. After 4-6 weeks of drying, the paint is still slightly tacky. That is a problem, because ...	You might be able to reduce the stickiness by spreading some fine talcum powder on the surface, then lightly vacuuming it off - but TEST in an unobtrusive area, first, because if it's too sticky, you could end up with permanent, visible, dust built into your paint job. I use polyurethane (water based) in satin and it c...
When hanging two layers of drywall, can the first layer be hung with the facing to the studs? I am hanging a double layer of 5/8" type-x drywall with Green Glue, a soundproofing compound, sandwiched in the middle. If I hang the first layer with the face facing outward like normal and then stagger the second layer over...	If you don't mount the drywall with the beveling in the right direction (towards the room) then you will notice all the seams. This will prevent the same gapping problem on the second layer when you put screws through that layer into areas where the tape mudding gap would have been. If you are concerned with the gap ju...
What's a nifty way to restrict my dog run without re-installing it? We have a "dog run" in our back yard that we hook our dogs to when they need to go out. Their harnesses hook to a lead, and then lead in turn hooks to the wheel you see in the picture below. The wheel runs along a line that is about 40 feet in length. ...	You could get a u-shaped rope clamp. You can procure these at most home supply centers and at any decent hardware store.
Projects to Pursue while Studs are Bare? I'm stripping my small 950 sq. ft. 1950's-era home to the studs -- walls and ceiling -- so that I can install a vapor barrier and insulation in the walls and ceiling. While I have the studs available (exterior and interior walls and ceiling), what other projects are worth pursui...	Install fire resistant insulation around key areas Wireless connections are fine, but wired connections are better quality Replace all your old wiring with new wiring, your old wiring will have degraded by now If you have fixtures a long distance from your hot water tank, consider installing a return loop that would al...
Is it possible to boost an electrical circuit for more current draw? In my attic I have a relatively decent electrical circuit that runs a family room with a modest entertainment system, a home office with a monster PC, and a couple of ceiling lights. I've never had any problems with it before. Recently I got a new la...	You may be able to find the wire underneath in the basement, and cut it and put in a junction box so the circuit from that point on is on the new circuit. You could start by using a Kill-a-watt or similar device to measure power consumed by your PC, printer, TV, etc.
How do I set up drains for a flat roof? In the house I'm building, I will be using a flat roof with a parapet around it. The total area will be around 120 sq meter and the roof will be a concrete slab (at least 8 cm). What is the best way to drain it? People in Brazil don't like to use those kind of roofs so I can't g...	If you don't want an interior drain, it sounds like you're going to be going to the edge—e.g. gutters or scuppers.
What paint do I use to paint wood in a bathroom? I have a lot of wood in my bathroom, some in worse wear than others, its really ugly. So I want to paint it. My question is what paint do I use, do I need primer/ undercoat/ special bathroom paint? I'm more concerned about the wood which is the window sill and the wo...	I'd suggest a quality primer (Killz would be a good brand) and then a high-gloss latex, perhaps with an anti-mildew additive (most paint departments will have anti-mildew bases designed for high moisture areas).
How can I quiet my dryer vent from the outside? I have a Whirlpool electric clothes dryer and it is under 5 years old. When it is drying it makes a "whirling sound" that is especially loud from the outside where it is vented. My neighbor is constantly complaining about it. We shoved a large rock up in the vent from the...	I'd suggest using some sort of a structure to block the direct "line of sight" between the exhaust vent and your unsettled neighbor. The first thing to check is that your duct is free of lint and other debris. I don't think this is a good idea for a clothes dryer, as it will accumulate lint, which can become a fire haz...
Is it possible to use a dryer vent as a heat source in the winter? Is it possible to attach a diverter to an electric clothes dryer vent so it can help heat my house in the winter? Seems like such a waste to blow it all outside. I imagine you'd need some sort of filter or maybe a radiant heating option. <Q> Dryer vent ...	Be advised that you should place a fan or other means of circulating the moist air, as it will make your dryer room VERY moist if not pushed out into other areas.
How do you screw in double-ended screws? I have a flat pack shelving unit to put together. It has double ended screws. According to the instructions you just screw them in using your hands. This is impossible: the pre-drilled holes seem way too small for the screws. I am unable to screw a nut on to tighten with a spann...	The other solution is to make the pilot hole slightly larger so you can screw it in with your hands.
Do I need to plug my snow thrower to GFCI outlet? I bought a snow thrower with 13.5A power. One area of my house is close to a GFCI outlet but the other side of the house is not. It's just a regular outlet. So I am not sure it can be safe to use with the normal outlet. Addition Info: The Model is Snow Joe Ultra 18-IN ...	As a rule of thumb, any appliance used outdoors should be plugged into a GFI outlet.
How can I locate and repair a leak? We recently bought a 100 year old house that stood uninhabited for 18 months prior to our move. Everything had been properly winterized for the cold winter months (Temperatures can reach -40 C) and the water was turned on and seemed to be working properly for about 3 weeks. Then we r...	The connection between the waste down pipe and the basin/bath/shower pipe may have a leak.
What is a "rigid surface"? Can someone explain as detailed as possible what, exactly, a rigid surface is? The context in which I am inquiring is in regards to Green Glue. It requires application between two rigid surfaces. I am sure this is a global term that doesn't apply to just Green Glue. <Q> Rigid means somethi...	Formally, a Rigid Body is one that doesn't deform under stress.
How do I seal the sink basin opening? I purchased a new bathroom sink and faucet and set everything up according to instructions. The faucet instructions told me to use silicone for the drain lip (the border thing around the stopper in the bottom of the inside of the sink, flange?). Anyways, underneath where the pipe ...	Although it may seem like a lot of work, the best option is to take the drain apart and reassemble it. The gasket is soft - it shapes itself to the underside of the sink and compresses to form a tight seal.
How can I repair a flexible hot water supply hose that is leaking at the nut? The hot water supply hose under my sink started leaking after I replaced the popup drain on the sink. Apparently I disturbed the hose in some way. It is leaking from just above the nut where it connects to the shutoff valve. I removed it and ...	If this doesn't work, disconnect the hose and replace with a new wire mesh hose, using the same taping method. Remove the existing tape completely. This tape isn't to create a seal, it's to ease the turning of the nut.
Should I be worried if I missed the studs while mounting my TV? I think I missed the studs based on how easily the drill moved through the drywall. My LCD only weighs 27lbs and the mount itself is 5lbs (rated to hold 165lbs, and uses 4 8mm lag bolts). I pulled as hard as I could downward on the tv and nothing moved at ...	Once those top bolts start to pull through, the paper will tear, the plaster will shear out of the hole, and the TV will only be supported by the lower bolts under a highly leveraged load. Personally I would remove the lag bolts and either move the mount onto studs if possible or use drywall anchors instead. All you mi...
How can I redirect the discharge of my forced air vent? An AC/heating register on our kitchen ceiling blows air directly toward a gas cooktop causing the flames to flicker. Adjusting the register doesn't seem to make a difference. I've looked into air deflectors but the ones I've found seem cheap or have bad reviews. ...	another option would be to take off the vent, and place duct tape(solution for everything) on the inside of the vent where it is blowing toward you flame.
How do I remove a flush mounted ceiling light fixture dome? My bedroom has a very nice looking flush mounted ceiling light with a glass dome. However, all the bulbs have gone out and I cannot get the glass out to replace them. I'm 5'4" and standing on the bottom corner of my bed I can reach up with my arms fully extend...	Some of these types of flush mount fixture globes are removed by turning them clockwise so that they unscrew from a threaded tube that joins to the inner electrical box bracket. Any upward pressure exerted from grabbing the glass created friction that made it not turn. Do also take a careful look at where the metal rin...
How to wire multiple thermostats I would like to have two thermostats controlling a single furnace. However I'm not 100% sure how I would need to wire everything to achieve the correct effect. Assuming a thermostat simply acts like an on/off switch, I think that I could run another set of wires in parallel to the exis...	What you probably want is one thermostat with multiple thermometers (one built in to the thermostat, and one remote).
What model circuit breaker is this? I live in an old 50 + year old house and it still has the original circuit breakers. I am trying to search for one that died, but don't know the model or even if they make these anymore. If any electricians out there can help me out, I would greatly appreciate it. I haven't removed ...	- Square D MAKES breakers to fit numerous types of boxes. The answer is actually staring you in the face under all that paint: Electri-Center. There are distinct signs of hackery and/or overloading and/or age-induced overloading on this panel, and with that plus the aluminum wiring and the age of these breakers, I woul...
Why will my toilet not flush after it rains or when ground is wet I live in a house with a septic system. When the winter/spring rains come, the toilet on the ground level master bedroom does not flush. We have another toilet on the ground floor that does flush. We have removed the non-flushing toilet, snaked the li...	The toilets vent becomes blocked somehow when it rains.
What is the best way to insulate a room with glass window for winter? Winter is approaching and I have heard that some people insulate glass windows and balcony doors during winter to preserve heat. What materials can I use to do this? I am living in a rented apartment, so I would like to have something which I can eas...	You could also look at using insulation strips in the window and door frames to seal any gaps. Not knowing your location try a home decorating center.
Why does my shower head drip when the tub faucet is on? I just installed a new tub fixture set: There are two controls - one for temperature and one for volume. The large handle is volume. When the diverter valve is engaged the shower sprays properly and no water comes from the spout: But if I disengage the diverte...	It may be that there is simply too much water coming to the shower, and a flow restrictor leading to the valves, or limiter on the valves is needed.
What would cause the water pressure to be too high for just a second? Lately when I turn on any faucet in my house the water comes rushing out at about twice the normal pressure for about half a second and then drops to normal pressure. I am worried the pressure is building up to high in the pipes. If I turn off the fa...	You don't need an expansion tank -- your pressure regulator (or pressure reducing valve) needs to be replaced.
Is an exhaust fan over a gas range required? Are we required to have one in a standard kitchen with a gas range in a residential home? The big question is not how many CFM or ducted or not, just whether there is a requirement in the building codes. I live in New Jersey, US. <Q> Yes, and not only do you need a fan <S> b...	While I would always put an exhaust over a gas range, it is not code where I am at. No, it is not required or even much of a hazard to not have one.
How can I remove a key that has broken off in a lock? I broke a key off in the lock of a desk drawer. The lock doesn't look easily replaceable, so how can I remove it? I've tried tweezers but they can't get enough of a grip to pull it out. <Q> In the past I've used a thin barbecue skewer to extract broken keys, I als...	A locksmith would use a key extraction tool to remove the key.
How can I replace a 4-way mechanical switch with occupancy sensor(s)? There is a stairwell in our house, which is currently lit by a fixture controlled by three switches: a 4-way and two 3-ways. The wiring was done very recently and, I'm certain, in accordance to modern code (which may help you figure out the diagram, ...	The motion sensor then starts an internal timer and if it does not see motion again before the timer expires, it sends an "off" command to the switch. You're trying to replace the 4-way switch, with a 3-way switch. As they walk down the infinitely long hallway, they trigger a new sensor every 15 feet or so, each sendin...
How do I prepare this exterior concrete wall for paint? I have a an exterior concrete wall that had some loose paint and started scraping away. The paint in some sections was so loose that I went all the way to the bare concrete, peeling away over 6 layers of paint. I'm worried that If I paint the wall, it will still s...	If there is six or seven layers of paint over the concrete then it will be sufficiently thick to be noticeable if you attempt to just scrape a single area and paint.
How can I seal around this pipe on my roof? I have a PVC furnace exhaust pipe coming out through my roof. Unfortunately, the guy who installed it used the wrong size flange. So instead of the rubber rising upwards against the pipe, it is sunken downwards, and water puddles in the depression and eventually drips inside....	Drill a small hole in the old flashing so any condensation can vent away, then apply the tape: After you install the roofing tape, you can use silicone caulk on the top edges just to be sure. Black Jack will not work for long: it gets hard then starts pulling away from the pipe.
Is it typical for the metal of corner bead to be exposed after it is finished being mudded? I hired a company to finish the drywall job in my room. One of the things that sticks out like a sore thumb is the exposed edges of corner bead. I have never seen corner bead exposed like this. Isn't it supposed to be covered...	The plaster is supposed to just cover the metal corner, neatly. My understanding of the metal corners is that corners get bumped. If it's an outside corner (as I suspect), it can be very difficult to cover it with mud. If this happens to you, I wouldn't sweat it.
How do I fill holes around a newly fitted ceiling light socket? I'm replacing a ceiling light that when fitted will leave gaps / holes in the ceiling where the existing socket hole is. The previous light was bigger and had a sensible amount of room for the wiring to be comfortably housed. The new fitting is effectivel...	Then cut a piece of drywall the same size, and measure the location of your fixture, and cut that out precisely. You could use something like this.
What tools do I need to make a straight cut in laminated chipboard? It's 38mm thick. Next week I will need to cut it along a straight line, and I would like the cut to be as straight and clean as possible. What tools do I need to do this ? <Q> You can make straight cuts parallel to an existing edge by using a circula...	The only way to make this a smooth cut is with a circular saw, either hand held or a table saw.
What should I do to prevent mold from flooding? Thanks to old plumbing, my upstairs toilet has flooded the bathroom -- and it's dripped all the way down to the downstairs bedroom, where it's soaked into the carpet there as well. I've got buckets and towels; however, I'm highly allergic to mold and mildew. What can I do...	Your landlord should be responsible for fixing this because with moisture leaking behind the walls like this then it can quickly create major property damage to his rental unit and unhealthy mold.
Will low water use toilets clog more? I need a toilet for the bathroom off a master bedroom that's being built in my house. Once when my Mother had a plumber in to fix something else, he told her to hang on to her old fashioned toilet as long as she could - plumbers have far more problems and calls about the new high ...	A plumber told me the more water the better as far as toilet reliability.
Is torn kraft paper vapor retarder in the attic a problem? I'm adding additional insulation in my attic. Unfortunately, I tore the kraft paper vapor barrier of the existing fiberglass insulation in many places while air sealing. Is this a problem? Or is this simply what happens when you air seal? Do I need to replace t...	In the winter, humidity levels will be higher inside of your home and without a proper vapor barrier, moisture will travel through the insulation and condense on the cold side of the insulation, to putting a vapor barrier towards the outside does no good. It may be something you already have.
Can I substitute diesel for home heating oil? I ran out of oil in my home, and a plumber friend said that I could add diesel from the gas station while I wait for my oil delivery. Is he right? <Q> Yes, no2 heating oil is pretty similar to diesel. <S> Just less clean and usually dyed red. <A> Yeah, it's perfectly fin...	So yes, it's ok to put diesel in your oil tank.
How to fix broken toilet flange from over tightened bolt? I broke my PVC toilet flange when I over-tightened the bolt used to secure the toilet to the flange. How do I fix this without replacing the entire PVC fitting? This PVC flange is glued to the drain pipe so I can't just pull out the fitting to replace it. Here...	You may also be able to get toilet bolts that screw into the wood.
How to fix a leaking bath tub overflow drain? My bath tub is over the kitchen on the second floor. It appears the bath tub overflow drain leaks a sizeable amount. At times the kids aren't paying attention and the water goes in. The water leaks into the kithcen cabinet below. How best to access the overflow drain to...	In this kind of situation, it would be best to replace the entire drain assembly right back to the tub trap.
How do I choose more durable screwdriver bits? I recently bought a $35 cordless screwdriver that came in a suitcase with screwdriver bits. I was in shock when the Pozidriv bit splintered after screwing only 3 1-inch screws in the leg of an unvarnished wooden ladder. After the initial shock, I used the other Pozidriv ...	When you go to your favorite store, simply buy one of the contractor grade of bits like DeWalt, Kolbalt, Irwin, Vermont American etc.
Can a cheap angle grinder be used to cut concrete and ceramic tiles? I am interested in the Black & Decker KG100 600W Angle Grinder because it is cheap enough. I will only use it occasionally for small scale do-it-yourself home improvement works. But, I really need one that can cut ceramic tiles and concrete. I don'...	Because tiles are very brittle, it would be extremely difficult to cut one with any kind of precision (and without breaking it) using a handheld tool.
What to do with these tiny exposed wires? We discovered a non-functional smoke detector that's hard-wired into the electrical system of the house we recently bought. I removed the smoke detector and am replacing it with a battery operated one. But there is one set of 4 small wires hanging out of the ceiling. They all r...	Use a multimeter to check that there's no voltage between any of the wires; the supply for the detector was probably on the red and black, but check all the combinations to be sure.
How do I remove blown in attic insulation? I want to replace the drywall ceiling in my house. It's old and has been painted over a million times. Home was built in the 50s. How do I replace the ceiling without replacing the insulation? Or if I take out the insulation to replace it with new, is there a best way of doing...	Simply push all of the insulation to one area and then do the ceiling of the other area, flip the insulation back over and you are done. Rake it in, ball it up, shove it in the bag. Just be sure not to fill the bags too full.
What goes on threads first: tape or dope? Should the dope be applied directly to the male threads or should the tape go on first? <Q> If you're using both, the tape would go on first. <S> Which is immediately evident, if you've ever tried to apply them the other way round. <S> There's open debate over whether or not ...	Use tape first, then apply the pipe dope on top. There are manufacturers ( Rapid being one ) that WILL void warranty if Teflon is used on the gas going to equipment.. that being said for water seals I dope then tape only to have tape for a clean look Also it is much cleaner to handle that way. A long time ago, when I i...
What type of common materials can I use to detect water infiltration/leaks? I am trying to find the source for a water leak in my car when it rains. The answer here should also be good for hard to find water leaks in a house. Is there a material I can use which tells me the material got in contact with water in the p...	Depending on how much water you're dealing with, newspaper or a paper towel can be an easy low tech solution.
furnace for central air heating, as what for central air cooling? In my apartment, the heating and cooling seems to flow through the same central aid conditioning system. The device used to heat the air is called the furnace. I wonder what the name for the device that cools down the air? Are they not the same device? ...	The device that cools the air is called an evaporator.
Laying Tile Over Asbestos Floor Tile In my laundry room, I've got asbestos floor tile. (The house was built in 1967.) The tile is laid on the concrete slab. Is it possible to lay ceramic penny tile over the asbestos tile if I put down cement backerboard first? I'd like to avoid pulling up the asbestos tile. <Q> Don't d...	Use a thin coat of floor leveler on the old tile to fill the seams between tiles and level off any dents and depressions that have formed over time. If you tile over it, then when someone does have to remove the asbestos tile, everything has to come up and be specially treated. You may get by and not have cracks doing ...
How can I run a coaxial cable into an existing single gang electrical outlet? The cable outlet in my girlfriend's living room is in a strange place. She wants to move her TV to a different wall but the landlord doesn't want any new holes in the wall or floor. If the wall was just painted drywall I'd just put a hole i...	When working with electricity, proceed with caution and make sure the circuit breaker is off before working on the receptacle. After doing this you should be able to run a coax cable up to the junction box and get a female connector plate to cover. In a double gang box, you would use a low voltage separator to keep the...
What could cause my washing machine to stop before the rinse cycle? My washing machine will get stuck right before the rinse cycle. The washing machine will be full of water. The way to "fix it" is to twist the knob right after the "rinse" line, find the sweet spot, and pull the knob out. It can take 10+ tries to find ...	Other causes are broken pressure sensor, failing water inlet valve, dodgy door lock. It also could be as simple as the door safety switch.
When would one use an impact driver versus a regular drill? Or vice-versa. As best as I can tell, the impact driver is very good for most any type of screw going through wood. When would you use a drill (with screw bit) instead? <Q> Drills and impact drivers are similar in that they're both rotating power tools and t...	When you are using the drill for drilling, you can use the impact driver for driving screws; that way, you don't have to keep switching between drill bit and screw bit on your drill which can be tedious.
How can I prepare uneven concrete basement floor for vinyl planks? I have roughly 600 sq ft of basement that needs new flooring after some unfortunate flooding this past summer. We had carpet over concrete and are now looking to lay vinyl planks down. There is about 150 sq ft off to the side (L-shaped basement) that i...	That said, if you can just partially level the floor to remove high points you might be able to use any number of floor tiles that make this easier. Or if you like gadgets, Bosch has a new laser out that lets you easily mark the uneven parts.
What should I use to protect and cover my floors during construction? We are building a new house and I'm installing the laminate wood flooring. The builder suggested I cover the flooring after I'm done to protect it during the last few weeks of construction and with moving in. What would you suggest I use? Rosin pa...	It's called Ram Board, and it's a super thick non-corrugated cardboard sheet that comes in rolls. Keep an eye on it and tape or put an extra piece on any areas that get ripped. I have used Ram Board and it is excellent and waterproof (for some time).
How to stop cold air from coming into the house I have a door similar to this, but it is an external door. There is a lot of cold air coming in from the bottom of this door, and around the perimiter (betweent he door and the frame). This is a rental house, so I don't want to spend too much fixing this forever, just e...	You can get a under the door dual draft stopper that slides under the door like this below.
How do I to choose a new light fixture for the bathroom? I've got a bathroom that has a single 75 watt bulb light fixture. It's wall mounted. Unfortunately, it's old and there isn't enough light. I'd like to replace it with a sconce that has 2 or 3 bulbs. How do I determine what type of sconce to get? How many watts? H...	You could bring in some cheap clamp on lamp fixtures and bulbs of various wattages to establish a proper lighting level.
How can I prepare this concrete floor for tile? I'm looking to replace an old carpet in my finished basement with tile. I've removed the carpet and found a surface with some peeling paint, which I've read needs to be removed since the thinset for the tiles needs to bond to a solid surface. I've tried attacking a smal...	You want a good bond to the self leveler or the paint. Another very good alternative is to use one of the new no-mortar interlocking tile products. Rent a rotating floor buffer with 18 sanding pads rough the surface up the best you can.
Is a ground required when replacing an old single pole single throw switch? I need to replace a switch that controls a single light source in a bathroom. The switch has two wires connected to it. I bought a replacement switch that has two screws (one for each wire), and a green ground screw. Is it OK to connect ju...	You can ground the new switch using a jumper between the switches grounding screw, and the other devices grounding screw.
Can I install data wiring in a clothes closet? I want to add network drops to several rooms in my house, and have them connect to one point, preferably inside an existing closet. I would like to put a cable modem and a WiFi router in this closet, as well as a reasonably presentable method of the wires entering the clos...	Since it's between the studs, you need to make sure nothing is currently running in that space today (although an outlet that's wired from below servicing the other side of the wall would be very convenient).
Who manufactures this bath tub faucet? I have a bath tub faucet that leaks and needs valve replacement. No one seems to know what kind of faucet it is. I have sent a picture of it to the major suppliers and no one seems to know. Maybe someone out there can help. I have had plumbers here as well that do not know. Click...	It is definitely an old-style Valley brand. that is the Moen 'tear drop'
What's the best way to get rid of ants inside my home? I have ants occasionally in the summer come through the cracks in my garage floor. What is the best way to eliminate them? <Q> Some options to consider: ant poison (Terro a being a popular choice) fill in the crack (concrete crack filler) <S> get a pet anteat...	Exterminator told me that for the small "sugar ants", retail bait traps work as well as anything he could offer.
Can a Wood Burning Stove use a stovepipe made of copper for a chimney? Planning to install woodburning stove one day. The plan includes exposed stovepipe running up through a loft space, through attic, and out to roof chimney. I know the stovepipe comes in black and stainless steel, but I'd rather the look of copper....	You need to use a listed insulating stovepipe anytime combustible construction is penetrated. Flue fires and the lack of structural integrity of copper under this kind of heat point to no.
How do I properly prepare newly-finished drywall for priming? What is the minimum amount of dust that can be left on a wall before it adversely affects primer application? If it has to be completely free of dust, how do you get it all? Taking a damp rag over the wall seems to be the way to do this based on my own res...	You didnt have to use a mop, for next time all you have to do is take a broom to it and sweep the dust off, put some primer on, wait for it to dry and then take a pole sander to it, and dust clumps left on the wall is forever gone. After taking it from the ceiling to the floor and stepping to the side a bit to repeat, ...
Is it dangerous to run electrical cords through heating vents? I'm living in an old apartment, and my roommate has fed electrical cords through a heating vent from the living room into the bathroom, up to a power bar on the side of the sink. I see this as a double hazard and illegal. The heating vent exits from the wa...	Any electrical socket in a bathroom must have GFCI protection. It's not safe and not good practice to run anything through heat vents. You're damp, you touch something with a ground fault, feel a slight tickle and wake up wearing a halo and wings. Meanwhile, get that extension cord/plug strip out of there. Your roommat...
How can I repair a slow drip at the main water shutoff valve? I noticed a slow drip and wondering if solution is to turn the nut clockwise to solve. I normally would give it a go but since this is the main water shutoff I figured it'd be smart to get some confirmation before I flood my house. Another question is what'...	Use the right tools and try not to round off the nut. Any time I have to have the water supply turned off, I always opt to replace multi-turn valves with ball valves.
Is there anything I can do to make it easier to remove plugs from receptacles? Is there anything I can do to make it easier to pull plug ins out of the wall sockets? All of the wall sockets in the kitchen make it very difficult to pull the plug in out of the wall receptacle. The toaster, the coffee maker, the can ope...	You could try something like this attachments to make plug easier to pull out: If you are concerned that the appliances are disconnected when you're absent, then you can turn off the switch on the power strip. In general, though, I wouldn't advise doing this as it does increase the risk that you will get a bad electric...

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