DIY In A Hour

How To Choose A Good Bathroom Layout

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:22:40 GMT

A successful bathroom design is one that reflects the lifestyle of its users. Adults with identical schedules need a bathroom laid out differently than one used by children or occasional guests or one that includes a laundry.

In order to satisfy the general needs of all in the household, one should take a look at present patterns. Are people always waiting for someone to get out of the bathroom? Is there enough room for two people? How often is the tub used? Can guests get to the bathroom without entering someone's bedroom?

Working With Metal

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:21:48 GMT

Sheet metal is simply flat metal up to 3/16 inch thick. Thicker flat metal is called plate. Bar metal may be round, T-shaped, L-shaped, flat, or other more unusual shapes, but all would be less than 12 inches wide if flattened out.

Cutting metal. The most common metal-cutting tool are the hacksaw and sheet-metal snips, also known as aviation snips. Snips come in straight cut, right-hand cut, and left hand cut configurations. Straight snips are colored yellow, right-hand snips are red, and left-hand snips are green. Snips may damage one side of the piece of metal.

Removing A Bathtub

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:20:25 GMT

Replacing a bathtub or installing a new one is a major project that usually involves some framing, rough plumbing, tiling, putting in plumbing fixtures and flooring, and installing accessories.

Although bathtubs vary in size, shape, and basic materials, the techniques for installation are similar for all models. Most manufacturers include instructions with the tub.

Old bathtubs were made with porcelain-ized cast iron, which is still a popular choice.

The Electrical Grounding System Explained

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:39:35 GMT

The job of the grounding system is to provide that path, diverting the charge to the ground so quickly that the sudden surge in the wires causes the circuit breaker to overload and trip. Ground wires accompany all hot and neutral wires and must be connected to every receptacle, switch, fixture, and appliance.

These wires converge at the ground bus bar, which is connected to the ground by a No. 6 or larger wire. The critical link in the entire system is the connection of this wire to the ground itself. A cold water pipe used to be sufficient, but plastic plumbing materials now make it necessary to augment this connection with at least one grounding electrode connector.

Many local codes require that the ground wire continue uninterrupted to a second ground, such as an additional rod or cold water pipe.

Maintaining And Troubleshooting Piped Heating Systems

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:49:37 GMT

Some steam-heat piping systems employ a one-pipe distribution network. A single pipe serves as both supply and return for each radiator. Steam rises from the boiler to the radiators, gives off heat, and condensates to water. The condensate drips back down the same pipe to a return main. This feeds the boiler with water to be boiled for the next steam cycle.

Most hot-water, and some steam systems use a two-pipe network though. Water or steam flows through the radiation units and returns through separate pipes. The expansion tank serves as a cushion, allowing the water pressure to increase, which helps it circulate more readily.

In a "series loop" system, steam or water flows from one radiation unit to the next; there are no mains. Turning off one radiator stops the flow of steam or water, thereby shutting off all the other units.

Solving Home Ventilation Problems

Sat, 25 Dec 2010 17:48:23 GMT

Your home may already have a few powered ventilators -- a hood over the kitchen range or a bathroom exhaust fan. If not, you may need to add additional ventilators to your home.

Power ventilation also reduces cooling costs by a surprising amount. A roof-mounted fan, working in tandem with static vents, removes heat build-up in attics and takes a big load off your cooling equipment. A larger fan in the attic floor may pull enough air through the house to cool it without using air-conditioning equipment.

Installing A Bathroom Vanity

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:23:34 GMT

The easiest type of bathroom vanity countertop to install is the synthetic marble type with a washbasin molded into it. All you do is run a bead of silicone caulk around the top edge of the cabinet and set the countertop into place. Using any other material, such as a plywood base for tile and laminate, will involve cutting a hole for the washbasin and attaching a backsplash before mounting the countertop to the cabinet.

To cut the hole, trace an outline of the basin on the countertop. Drill a starting hole inside the cutout and use a power jigsaw to make the cut. To make sure the hole is small enough to support the rim of the basin, make the cut about a 1/2-inch inside the outline.

Attach plywood backsplash and sidesplash pieces to the countertop with silicone sealant and screws, first drilling pilot holes through the edge of the countertop. If the pieces are synthetic marble, use a sealant recommended by the manufacturer. You cannot use screws. Set the completed countertop in place and drive screws into the underside through the corner cleats of the cabinet.

Build A Carport

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 21:36:25 GMT

The actual plan for building a carport is quite simple. It should be at least 12 feet wide and 20 feet long for one car, or 20 by 20 feet for two cars. The roof should have a minimum slope of 1 in 12, but a slope of 3 in 12 or steeper is better in snow areas.

It can also be a roundabout way of adding new living space to some homes without building a room addition. If you are wondering how to add an extra room in a home that has an attached garage, you might consider building a carport and converting the garage into an extra room.

Planning. Consult your local building department about necessary permits and code restrictions. Local codes may specify minimum dimensions for parking spaces, minimum driveway area, or maximum driveway slope. In addition to setback limits and specifications concerning the maximum percentage of the lot that can be covered by site improvements, these restrictions will effect the size and location of your carport.

How To Install A Pocket Door

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:37:05 GMT

Frame a rough opening that is 1/2 inch to 1 inch wider and taller than the complete pocket frame. If you are cutting into an existing wall, lay out the opening so that the latch jamb of the door starts at the edge of an existing stud. Then lay out the rough dimensions and cut back to the stud closest to the end of the pocket frame. Install new trimmer studs and a header across the entire opening.

Installing a ready-made unit. Set the pocket frame into the side of the opening where the door will be recessed, making sure that it is plumb and level. Nail it to the framing. Install the side jamb and head jamb making sure they are plumb and level before nailing. Then screw the overhead track to the center of the head jamb. After mounting the wheels on the top of the door, lift it in place so that the wheels hook onto the track.

Adjust the wheels until the door hangs straight. Finish the walls and trim the opening.

How To Repair Holes In Drywall

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:17:23 GMT

It is hard to imagine any home improvement project that does not involve working with some wallboard. Wallboard, also called drywall, gypsum board, gypboard, and Sheetrock (a brand name), is a versatile and inexpensive building material.

It is easy to install, although it is more difficult to finish properly. It is dimensionally stable, it can be fireproofed and moisture proofed, it cuts easily, and it creates an excellent
surface for texturing, painting, wallpapering, paneling, or tiling. There are a few ways to repair small holes:

Using tape. Holes that are too large to spackle but no more than 2 to 3 inches across can be patched with drywall tape and compound. Using cardboard to patch drywall. An alternative method is to use a piece of cardboard cut slightly larger than the hole. Thread a knotted string through it, push the cardboard through the hole, and pull on the string to hold it in place. Next, apply fast-setting patching compound, pushing it so that it oozes around the edges of the cardboard and binds it in place.

All About Outdoor Lighting And Planning The System

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:32:16 GMT

The first step is to plan the exact location of all the lights and receptacles, using the lighting techniques that best suit your landscaping. Consider safety and area lighting first, and then any accents or special effects you want to include. Then, determine whether your system will provide enough lighting for security, and make adjustments for any deficiencies.

Include switch locations in your planning. They should be indoors, with auxilliary outdoor switches in areas of high use.

Next, determine how many circuits the lighting system will need. Receptacles are usually kept on a separate circuit from lights. They must be GFCI receptacles, unless the entire circuit has a GFCI breaker or the outdoor portion of the circuit is protected by an indoor GFCI receptacle wired for "downstream" protection.

If the garden is small and there are only a few lights, they can probably be wired into extensions of existing circuits. For a larger system, you will want a separate circuit for every 6 to 12 fixtures, depending on the total wattage of lamps per circuit.

Plan circuits so you can group certain fixtures on the same switch, using dimmers for increased flexibility. You can also install some lights on special switches for greater security, such as timers, photocells, or sensing devices that turn on lights when they detect motion.

Once you have determined the location of all the fixtures, switches, and receptacles, you should make a sketch to help you obtain necessary permits. Note all outlets, the size and type of wire, and the location of the main service panel. You probably will not need a permit for a low-voltage lighting system from an existing outlet.

Plumbing: Cleanouts And Vents, DWV Fittings

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 10:03:19 GMT

Cleanouts. Cleanouts provide access to clogged pipes and should be built at the upstream end of every horizontal run of pipe. Codes may contain more specific rules. They may require a cleanout where the house sewer connects to the public sewer, where the main drain joins the house sewer, and after every 50 feet of straight run.

In addition, most codes specify a cleanout immediately upstream of any combination of horizontal and vertical changes of direction that exceed 135 degrees. Fixtures and roof vents qualify as cleanouts.

All cleanouts must be accessible. Cleanouts that serve underground drains must extend to an accessible location. There must be at least 18 inches of space behind any cleanout on a 3-inch line; 12 inches on smaller pipe. If the cleanout is under a house or in an enclosed area, it must be within 15 feet of an access door.

Plumbing: The Main Drain & Water Supply System

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:32:48 GMT

The house sewer. All the drains in the house connect to the main drain, which is outside the foundation. The main drain connects to a septic tank or to a public sewer stub at the property line. Most local codes specify the size of the connecting pipe.

The pipe size for a single family dwelling is usually 4 inches ID (inside diameter). Codes also specify the type of pipe -- usually vitrified clay, cast iron, plastic, or bituminized fiber. Clay pipe must join with no hub bands or compression.

The DWV system. Sometimes called the sanitary system, the DWV system includes all the drains and waste pipes in and under the house as well as the vents. The DWV system is completely independent of the water supply system and contractors usually install it first. The DWV system is not pressurized; water and waste move because of gravity.

Your Green Guide: Saving Energy, Money, And Water

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:49:11 GMT

A large energy saver would be to seal and insulate your home. You'd be surprised at all the little nooks and crannies that outside air can find a way inside. A small singular hole is not a problem; however, most homes have many passageways that need to be sealed. Collectively, sealing these air gaps can save up to 20% on your annual heating and cooling costs. I usually start off with a can of Great Stuff insulating foam.

Purchase ENERGY STAR qualified appliances. ENERGY STAR qualified refrigerators, dishwashers and clothes washers offer high performance and big savings compared to traditional, older models. Plus, new clothes washers are much easier on your clothing; saving added dollars when your clothes last longer.

A Low-Flow Toilet Guide

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:42:59 GMT

Replacing standard toilets with low-flow toilets can save between 8,000 and 21,000 gallons of water per year per household. This conserves water and reduces the load on septic tank leach fields and municipal sewage systems.

Most low-flow toilets use the same principles as standard toilets. One uses air compressed in the tank by water pressure to speed the flow of water. If your system has low water pressure, this model will take a long time to recharge and may not generate enough force to work efficiently.

Working With Copper Pipes

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:59:19 GMT

Both water supply systems and DWV systems use copper pipe and fittings extensively. Copper is easy to work with but is fairly expensive, especially for use in DWV systems. Most copper pipe is rigid, but coils of flexible tubing are available for use in slabs or in installations where pipes turn without fittings.

Copper comes in the same sizes as iron pipe -- from 1/4- to 2 1/2-inches. The outside diameter of the tubing is 1/8-inch larger than the size by which it is classified, and the inside diameter varies with the thickness of the tube wall.

A Beginner's Guide To Wallcoverings

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:48:48 GMT

Commonly available wallcoverings are machine-printed in widths ranging from 18 inches to 27 inches. Most are pretrimmed and many are prepasted. As a general rule, the more colors used to print the material, the higher the price.

Vinyl coverings are the most durable. They are resistant to stains and dirt and can be scrubbed if necessary. The best vinyl coverings are entirely vinyl rather than vinyl-coated paper. Both types tend to stretch when stressed, but will not tear. Because they are not porous, mildew can develop in the underlying paste, but fungus-resistant adhesives will prevent this.

Hinges, Pulls And Knobs For Cabinets

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 09:00:47 GMT

Because fads change, the safest designs to choose are simple and classical shapes. If a sleek and uncluttered look is desired, you can even avoid hardware altogether, relying on finger grooves under the cabinet doors and drawers, and touch latches on full-sized doors.

If you are changing the pulls and knobs on existing cabinets, check to see whether the existing hardware is mounted with one or two screws. You are better off replacing it with the same kind so that you can use the same holes. For a similar reason, choose pulls for new cabinets carefully; remember that the holes you drill for mounting now will effect any future hardware changes.

Install Underlayment For A Floor

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:44:17 GMT

Finish floors need a stable, smooth surface beneath them. Although some types of hardwood flooring can be attached to subfloors or even directly to joists, others require underlayment. Underlayment is also necessary for sheet vinyl, vinyl tiles, ceramic tiles, and some carpets.

Tile backing board is the best underlayment for ceramic tile. The backing board and subfloor must have a combined thickness of 1 1/8-inches. Particle board or plywood are used in other types of floors.

Mixing Paint And Cleaning Up

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:56:24 GMT

To keep the groove around the top of the can from clogging with paint, pound a few nail holes in the bottom of the groove for the lid. Excess paint will drain through these holes.

Oil-based paints often develop a thick scum on the surface. Don't try to stir or mix this scum into the paint. Instead, gently lift it off the surface and pour the paint through a nylon stocking or cheesecloth strainer to get rid of any lumps.

Painting: Using A Sprayer

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 17:57:39 GMT

Should you accidentally pull the trigger while touching the opening, the sprayer may inject you with paint. Such injuries cause almost no pain or loss of blood, but they can result in severe tissue damage and blood poisoning. If you have an accident with a sprayer, seek medical attention at once.

To prevent injuries, make sure the sprayer has a safety lock and guard as well as a protective shield that keeps your fingers away from the tip. Never point the gun toward anyone, including yourself. Unplug the sprayer before you try to unclog the tip. Store the sprayer in a locked cabinet when not in use.

How To Pick Paint Colors For Your Home

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:07:03 GMT

Light colors are the safest choice, but they tend to be dull and profit from a contrasting trim color. If the foundation is distinct from the primary structure, paint it a darker tone. Avoid bright, pure colors as well as combinations of two colors with equal intensities unless you want to make a strong statement. Muted earthtones work well for exteriors because they blend into the landscape. They also tend to last longer than pure hues.

Minimum Code Requirements For Electrical Fixtures

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 19:40:21 GMT

Wiring should be done according to code and with proper permits. Unlike other building codes, there is only one standard code for electrical work, called the National Electrical Code® (NEC®). Requirement for local cities and counties are based on the NEC®, but may include additional restrictions. Many local code authorities publish a sheet of these variations, which you should obtain before you start work. An electrical permit is usually required when you add new wiring, but not when you replace wiring.

The following specifications will help you locate light fixtures, outlets, and appliances. These specifications are based on the National Electrical Code®; consult with your local building department for additional restrictions.

Brushes, Rollers And Other Stuff

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:55:23 GMT

Spreader and trim pads. Spreader and trim pads have become increasingly popular in recent years because they are faster than brushes and leave less texture than rollers. Pads are narrower than rollers, but make up for their size with easier handling, absence of spattering, and simple clean-up. The pads come in a variety of sizes.

Foam Brushes. These inexpensive blocks of foam on handles are handy for any painting chore. They leave no brush marks and do not require cleanup; throwing them away is cheaper than buying paint thinner.

Preparing To Carpet A Room

Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:54:15 GMT

Selecting a carpet. The color, appearance, and texture of a carpet are probably your most immediate concerns, but other factors should be considered as well. The highest quality carpet is not necessarily the best choice, since you may not want to live with the same carpet forever.

Preparing the floor. Except for cushion-backed carpet or very thin goods, carpet conceals defects and irregularities beneath it quite well. The thicker the carpet or pad, the more successful the effect will be. Carpet installations usually require a little floor preparation: The subfloor surface must be dry, free of debris, and as smooth as possible.

Introduction To Resilient Flooring

Sat, 02 Oct 2010 15:52:19 GMT

Vinyl-composition flooring is generally less expensive; the resiliency varies with the thickness of the materials. While your own color preferences and design needs will guide you in selecting a pattern, keep in mind a few general guidelines:

Do not use patterns that simulate natural materials in places where the real material would never be used. For instance, do not curve a Spanish floor-paver pattern up a wall.

Avoid patterns that will overwhelm a room. The bigger and more intricate the pattern, the larger the room should be. If you like an intricate pattern for a small room, but fear that it may appear too busy, check to see if it is also available in neutral, monochromatic tones.

If sheet materials need to be seamed in prominent places, conceal the seams by choosing a pattern with straight lines, such as simulated tile with grouted joints.

Heat Pumps And Other Forms Of Heating

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:42:39 GMT

Some homes rely on space heaters, such as wall furnaces, wood stoves, or portable heaters, but most homes have a central heating system. The 5 most common types are warm air, hot water, hybrid, electric radiant, and heat pumps. In addition, solar energy is used to heat homes with hot-water systems, solariums, and direct solar radiation.

Improving circulation. Warm-air heating can create drafts and stratified temperature layers that cause discomfort, even though the system supplies adequate heat. Warm air rises and cool air drops. Air next to outside walls, especially next to doors and windows, loses heat much more rapidly than air next to an outside wall.

Recognizing Bearing Walls

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:35:38 GMT

If you can only inspect the wall from under the house, look for the main girders. Walls located directly over them are most likely bearing walls. Also, double joists probably support bearing walls. Posts and footings within the perimeter of the foundation usually support bearing walls as well.

Short sections of wall around a closet may be perpendicular to the joists, but are not necessarily bearing walls. If a central hallway runs the length of your house, only one wall is the bearing wall. Look in the attic to see where the ceiling joists overlap. Also look in the attic for strongbacks: beams or 2-by lumber set on edge to hold joists.

A Quick Overview About Walls

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:45:36 GMT

Whenever you deal with an existing wall, there are two basic questions to ask: How will changing this wall affect the structure of the house? What's inside the wall?

Cutting a simple opening in a wall to install a medicine cabinet or a small pass-through will have no effect on the structure of the house as long as you do not cut any studs. Cutting a large opening, such as a window or door, or removing a wall can have a major impact on the structure of the house if you are tampering with a bearing wall or a shear wall.

Replacing Furnace Filters

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:03:20 GMT

Changing a furnace air filter is a job that is easy and inexpensive to do yourself. The purpose of a filter on a forced-air furnace is to keep dust, soot, and other air-borne grime out of the air that blows into your living area. Because air has more trouble passing through a dirt-laden filter, your furnace has to work harder when the filter gets dirty.

Electrical Safety And Common Sense Practices

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 09:31:32 GMT

A basic understanding of your electrical system starts with the simplified notion that electricity must travel in circles. It starts somewhere, does some work somewhere else, and needs to return "home". The entire path is called a circuit. Next, you need to learn 3 basic terms:

Volts: A measure of electrical pressure. In house wiring, it is at a constant of 120 or 240 volts.
Amps (amperes): It is a measurement of the electricity flowing past a given point. In house wiring, the amperage rating refers to the amount of electricity a wire can handle before the protective system (fuse or circuit breaker) rescues it.
Watts: Is a measurement of the actual power being used. It is what your meter measures and what you are billed for.

How To Prepare Exterior Surfaces For Paint

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 09:42:15 GMT

Your house needs a new coat of paint when the existing paint has almost worn off, or if it is peeling, blistering, cracking, or alligatoring. Start by removing as much old paint as possible with a paint scrapper, wire brush, or power sander. Always wear a respirator -- old paint often contains lead.

Preparing Interior Surfaces For Paint

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:17:44 GMT

If layers of paint obscure details in the woodwork, you may want to strip the paint. Complete stripping is desirable if you refinish the wood with clear sealers; partial stripping will be adequate if you cover the trim with new paint. If you are lucky, you will be able to strip the wood with scrappers and sandpaper. If not, you will have to use a chemical paint remover, following the instructions on the can. You will need lots of newspapers, rags, steel wool, and ventilation.

Basic Principles Of Light Switches

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:19:10 GMT

Basic principles of switching. There are many configurations for wiring connections involving two-way, three-way, and four-way switches. It is important to understand connection principles than to memorize the hook-ups. This way you will be able to adapt to any installation.

How To Replace A Damaged Ceiling Tile

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 12:56:36 GMT

The biggest challenge you may face when replacing a damaged ceiling tile is finding one that matches. If you're lucky, whoever installed the ceiling tile will have saved a few extra tiles for such [...]

Repairing Windows In Your Home

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:38:40 GMT

Old double hung windows, after years of use and numerous paint jobs, are prone to problems and are not energy efficient. However, many people consider them worth keeping because they add style or because they are expensive to replace.

Your first project should be to add weather stripping. If the window is broken or the sash has deteriorated, look for an inexpensive replacement at recycling yards or contact an installer who replaces old windows.