http://www.panoplycorp.com Home Improvement Tips and Tricks Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:21:57 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en As spring approaches, we’re coming up on a new season of maintenance and chores.  This includes refinishing metal patio furniture.  For those who are not able to store these furniture pieces under cover, this chore is often an annual event.  However, for those who are new to this project, there ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/03/09/refinishing-metal-patio-furniture/ Weekend warriors and DIY experts alike can tackle building a child’s playhouse.  There are a wide variety of sizes, styles, and floor plans to choose from ranging from novice builder to expert craftsman. Here are some links to lead you: How to Build a Child’s Playhouse Popular Playhouse Plans Playhouse Plans: Build a ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/03/03/how-to-build-a-child%e2%80%99s-playhouse/ In keeping with the information being presented on this blog recently about self-sufficiency, we’re going to talk about how to raise pigs.  Raising pigs isn’t as difficult as many believe.  Here are some links to lead you: How to Raise Healthy Pigs Keeping a Pig For Meat? How to do Things: Care For a ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/03/02/how-to-raise-pigs-for-their-meat/ Self-sufficiency is on the minds of many consumers, particularly those who are already implementing the “reduce, reuse, and recycle” practice into their households.  With these principles in mind, it’s a smoother transition into self-sufficiency.  Why?  Because these homeowners are looking for ways to reuse household items and, in the case of ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/27/how-to-compost/ Windy weather, particularly when coupled with precipitation, causes moderate to heavy clean up for many homes across the country.  Here are some clean up tips for those suffering from frequent windstorms: Keep a chainsaw on hand, and properly maintained, to clean up fallen trees and tree limbs. For those instances where a large ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/26/cleaning-up-after-a-windstorm/ Let’s face it; being more self-sufficient should be touching most of our lives by now.  However, taking this step is difficult for many.  There are a number of ways to be more self-sufficient in our homes, and in an economy that’s struggling as ours is, it could help to explore ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/24/how-to-be-self-sufficient-at-home/ For those who are living in winter weather states, cabin fever is likely creeping up.  Our home is no exception. We’ve been making plans and researching how to build a playhouse as soon as the winter weather ceases.  Here’s what we’re reading: Ron Hazelton: How to Build a Child’s Playhouse DIY Network: How ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/23/how-to-build-a-playhouse/ Spring is right around the corner and, for many homeowners, that means spring-cleaning.  Part of this routine often includes cleaning out basements, garages, cabinets, and closets.  Today, we’re going to focus on tips for spring-cleaning closets. Here are some links to lead you: Closet Organization Made Easy How to Spring Clean the Closets How ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/22/spring-cleaning-closets/ If you’re new to having a hardwood floor, you’re likely wondering how to keep it clean without causing damage.  There are a number of safe and effective ways to clean a hardwood floor without ruining its finish or causing other types of damage. Here are some links to lead you: Quick Tips ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/20/tips-for-cleaning-wood-floors/ To some, choosing a countertop is the least of their worries.  To others, though, it’s a process as complicated as choosing windows and flooring.  Here are some questions to ask when making kitchen countertop choices: Are you looking for something that isn’t easily scratched? Do you need a surface that handles heavy ... http://www.panoplycorp.com/2010/02/19/making-kitchen-countertop-choices/