One of EHT‘s most recent projects was a complete roof tear-off and replacement job, using synthetic shake roofing from DaVinci Roofscapes. You’ll be finding the complete feature story in an upcoming issue of Extreme How-To, but for the time being I wanted to share a few photos from the job. It really is a beautiful […]
“Bulletproof” Windows
The EHT staff recently participated in a window replacement project where old, rotted wooden windows were removed and replaced with energy-efficient vinyl units from Simonton Windows. The new units not only look great, but the Low-E double-paned, gas-filled design will significantly reduce heat transfer to save on energy bills. Plus, the vinyl construction won’t require […]
Air Conditioners Demystified
You may be an expert on air-conditioning technology. I am definitely not, but I’ve been diligently studying HVAC systems in order to qualify in my state as a licensed home inspector. I’ve been taking a crash-course in all aspects of the home. A lot of the material I already knew, but a lot of the […]
Cool Stuff: Superior Sealants
Cracks in caulk joints occur because the house moves, and the caulk doesn’t move with it. This movement can occur when the house settles, or as the building materials expand and contract with seasonal changes. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a caulk that moves with the the house? The Sashco company makes […]
Heating & Cooling No Longer Majority of U.S. Home Energy Use
Now that we’re entering the warmer months, it’s tempting to crank up the ol’ air conditioner, but the high cost of electricity will have many of us biding our time. When money is tight, people often sweat out the heat a little longer to cut energy costs and keep more money in the bank. For […]
Big Stand for a Big Screen
Last summer I customized these plans from Woodsmith.com to build a sectional entertainment center that would match the ridiculously large TV that might wife bought me (herself?) for Christmas. The design gave me a way to not only support the TV but also to house a Blu-ray player, satellite receiver, a VCR (old!) and even […]
How to Make Floating Shelves
Behold the latest Extreme How-To video — a great weekend project for the DIY’er with a table saw. Just click below to play…
Take Care of Your Blades
Working in the home-improvement industry has its perks. For example, I get a lot of saw blades sent to me as product samples. Sometimes I’m sent more than I can use. Suffice it to say that I’m knee-deep in circular blades and am not the best guy to speak authoritatively on how to properly care […]
Springtime Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Maintenance Tips
AHRI Offers Homeowners Simple Springtime Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Maintenance Tips The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) reminds homeowners that the spring season is the ideal time to prepare cooling equipment for the hot summer months and ensure it operates at its highest efficiency. “Heating and cooling is the single biggest energy […]
Cool Stuff: Lexel Multipurpose Sealant
I’ve been using Sashco’s Lexel Adhesive Caulk lately on projects both inside and outside the home. When you need a top-notch seal, this is some tough stuff. I used the clear version of the product to seal around some new exterior doors that were installed in metal siding. The profile shape of the siding […]