Home Depot February Workshops

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on February 8, 2010

For those of you who haven’t heard of Home Depot’s home improvement and other DIY workshops, you’re missing out on some informative and hands-on learning experiences. 

 

Not only are these workshops beneficial for novice DIY’ers, but they’re also great for homeschoolers looking for field trip opportunities, or curriculum extensions.

 

Here’s what you can expect to find for February workshops:

  • Interior Painting
  • Tiling Floors and Walls
  • Small Bath Updates
  • Installing Interior Lights

Use this URL, The Home Improver Club, to sign up for these workshops.  Be sure to check with your local store for any additional workshops or learning opportunities that may not be listed on this link.

How to Install a Rain Chain

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on January 25, 2010

It’s no mystery many parts of the United States is experiencing a lot of strange weather this year, and heavy rains is no exception.  That reality is the inspiration for this blog post.  Why not turn rain into an opportunity for water collection through use of a rain chain. 

Here are some links to lead you:

ü      HGTV: How to Install a Rain Chain

ü      How to Make and Install a Rain Chain at Home

ü      Rain Chains: A Beautiful, Functional Outdoor Water Feature

 

These resources are just the beginning.  There are a number of retail outlets and home improvement centers carrying the supplies necessary to create this outdoor water harvesting system.  Good luck!

How to Choose Wood Glue

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on January 12, 2010

Choosing wood glue seems like a no-brainer, right?  There are those who struggle with this, though, and there’s nothing wrong with that.  Am I getting wood glue that’s strong enough?  Will it crack over time? Do all wood glues have the same amount of drying time?  Questions like these are common for those new to DIY home improvements and repairs.

Here are some links to lead you:

As you can see, it doesn’t hurt to be selective and you can never be too careful.  Use the resource links above to help you through buying decisions, as well as use of the wood glue products you’ve selected.  Good luck!

Winter Home Improvement Projects

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on January 10, 2010

It isn’t uncommon for individuals to believe home improvements during the winter are impossible.  This is not the case, though.  Choose indoor improvements:

  • Improve your home’s energy efficiency
  • Refinish the basement to expand living spaces and add storage
  • Paint, tile, or work on other wall treatments
  • Repair or replace flooring
  • Add or replace light fixtures
  • Replace cabinet doors and drawer fronts
  • Replace hollow core doors with studier or more attractive interior doors

This basic list is just the beginning of what you can explore for winter home improvements.  Don’t forget to address replacing door locks, changing window treatments, and adding throw rugs.  Use your imagination!

How to Shovel Snow Off a Roof

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on January 6, 2010

There are many homeowners and those with investment properties who swear by raking and shoveling their roofs after each heavy snowstorm.  However, there are also many who believe that if the roof is part of a new construction it isn’t necessary. 

No matter where you are when it comes to this opinion, here is information about how to shovel off a roof:

  • When propping up your latter, be sure to have someone stand at its base to keep it stable in the slippery snow.  Be sure to keep in constant communication with them about falling ice and snow.
  • Use a roof rake or snow shovel to pull snow toward you.  Do not push snow up toward the peak of the roof or you run the risk of damaging the shingles.

It is not recommended that you climb on top of the roof unless it is flat. It’s difficult to see slippery areas, so the risk of falling is greater.  Use of safety lines decreases this risk, but it still not advisable.

How to Keep Pipes From Freezing

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on January 5, 2010

With the cold winter months upon many parts of the country, freezing pipes is an issue for many.  There are ways to prevent this from happening, though.

 

 Here are some links to lead you:

Freezing pipes do not have to be part of your reality.  Follow the tips found in the home improvement resources links above, and avoid this winter headache!

Don’t Let Winter Scare You!

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on September 29, 2009

Winter weather is on the horizon and, in some parts of the country, the cold air has already hit.  What does that mean for home improvement project do-it-yourselfers?  Setting up and getting prepared ahead of time – here are some resources:

It’s no mystery being a homeowner is a lot of work.  This is particularly true when it comes to preparing for weather and other climate changes from season to season.  Your best bet is to start as soon as your budget allows, and round up as much help as you can for larger projects.  Good luck!

Cleaning Carpets Seasonally

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on September 24, 2009

Following a hot and dusty summer, particularly for those of you with a dirt driveway, it is always a good idea to get out a carpet cleaner and give your carpeting a good washing.  If you have children, this is probably already part of your seasonal routine. 

Here are some links about caring for your carpets:

Not only does cleaning your carpets and rugs keep your home clean, but it also cuts down on allergens and other issues that arise (particularly if you are a pet owner).  Try to clean rugs as each season passes for the best results.

Are You a Tool Nut?

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on September 10, 2009

The newest home improvement gadget or tool might be on your mind more than the projects that you actually plan to complete using them.  This is fine, especially considering the looming holiday season where gift-giving suggestions tend to fly, so long as you actually DO get to those home improvements.

Here are some sites listing some of the top gadgets and tools for 2009:

Even though you may not necessarily need new tools, it’s still fun to look.  And, if you’re having fun looking it might bring some fun into some of the more dreaded home improvement projects you might be facing.  Good luck!

Tools for Floor Refinishing

Posted By Jenn Greenleaf on September 9, 2009

Refinishing flooring is a big job and may be more involved that a weekend home improvement project.  In order to refinish a wood floor, you will need the following tools:

  • Flooring buffer
  • Random vibrating sander
  • Edge sander
  • Paint scraper
  • Shop vacuum
  • Lamb’s wool applicator
  • Pole sander

Depending on how large or complex the job is, the need for a drum sander may be in order.  If questions arise regarding the specific tools needed for specific jobs, then consult with a contractor, an experienced do-it-yourself’er, or a home improvement specialist.  Don’t forget necessities like ear protection (equipment is very noisy), a dust mask, and eye protection.