Installing a stair guardrail can be a challenging undertaking. The project is more complicated than tread or riser removal, because you’re dealing with precise angles rather than square cuts. The rail system must be securely supported by newels that are solidly fastened to the framing of the floor or wall. The rail must also adhere […]
New Ceiling Fixture from Lamps Plus
Last week, we upgraded a ceiling fixture with a new chandelier from Lamps Plus. This lighting fixture was located above the staircase we recently remodeled and made a beautiful “crown jewel” to decorate the space. The homeowner selected the Lacey 28″ Wide Round Black Chandelier to replace a much smaller (and lackluster) existing pendant. The […]
How to Tarp a Shingle Roof
(guest post by Pat Overson) If you are looking for a short-term solution for fixing a leaky roof, then installing a tarp is your most practical option. A tarp is not a replacement for real repairs done by a roofing contractor, but it will keep your leaky roof from causing permanent water damage to […]
Give Your Cabinet a Second Life
(guest post by Owen Wright) Do you want to freshen up and give your cabinets a second life? Would you rather consider replacing, refinishing or cabinet refacing? Here is a guide to help you decide. Signs That It Is Time For Change Over time, your cabinets suffer from wear and tear and damage that […]
Installing Risers on Stairs
Okay, back to my ongoing to stair-remodeling series, which you can follow in my previous blog posts here. On the last episode, I had to deal with a surprise: constructing and installing a stair stringer. This time, I’m installing new risers and treads on the upper flight of this split-level staircase (home of the new […]
Home Improvement Regrets
Ever start a home-improvement project and then wish that you hadn’t? According to a recent study at ImproveNet.com, 63 percent of people who have attempted home DIY projects said they regretted at least one of them. The survey of 2,000 Americans exposed some ugly truths about DIY endeavors. One in three people have called a […]
Home Ownership Excitement (aka Basement Leak!)
Homeownership can be challenging, rewarding and exciting. This is particularly true as you settle into a new house and get to know its character quirks, which can range from floor squeaks and sticking doors to flickering lights and midnight water leaks that threaten to the destroy the home. It was one of those surprise water […]
Dreaming for a Dream Home
I saw an interesting study recently on what Americans want in a dream home. Northshore Fireplace surveyed 2,000 Americans to determine their hopes for a house in the future. It turns out, people are thinking big. According to the results, the average American wants a home with 7.5 rooms in a comfortable 2,195-sq. ft. […]
How to Do Your Own Chimney Maintenance
(guest post by Jesse Peralta) Home is where the hearth is! A fireplace not only makes for an attractive focal point for a room, but also creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. However, homeowners should make sure this warm corner is regularly cleaned, thereby keeping the house and family safe from chimney fires. Though […]
What Is Asbestos and Its Exposure Risks?
(guest post by Judy Olsen) Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that possesses fireproof properties that made it a popular material for use in insulation, floor tiles, drywall, pipes, sealants, shingles, siding, and drywall. Asbestos was also used for crock pots, hair dryers, and car brakes. Even baby powder had, at one point, asbestos content. […]