Home Repair & DIY

Instructions Step 1: Hold the framing square Hold the framing square in your hands. Note that it is made of one flat sheet of metal with two arms positioned at right angles to each other. Step 2: Observe the tongue Observe the shorter arm, called the tongue. It is 1 1/2 inches in width and …

Instructions Step 1: Shave it Shave off the burnt ends of the fibers if your carpet has a burn. Carefully trim the ends with a razor blade if the burn doesn’t go too deep, and no one will ever know the burn was there. Step 2: Transplant fibers Steal some fibers from an inconspicuous area …

Instructions Step 1: Dig a hole Dig a hole in the ground using a pick and shovel. Use a bucket to remove the soil. Step 2: Dig until you reach the water table Continue digging until you reach the water table. Water will then start filling the bottom of the hole. Step 3: Line the …

Instructions Step 1: Read everything Research snow blowers and decide the amount of power you need before buying. Read the instruction manual before operating. Step 2: Wear protective gear Wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles in case an object flies in your direction. Step 3: Avoid danger Clear only snow and ice, not slush, which …

Instructions Step 1: Turn off the tank Turn off the hot water tank and let it cool. Then turn off the cold water supply to the tank. TIP: If you have an electric hot water tank, shut of the electricity to the tank. Step 2: Connect hose Connect a garden hose to the drain faucet …

Instructions Step 1: Determine the size Use the tape measure to measure the size of your mattress. Twin mattresses are typically 6 1/2 feet long and 3 1/2 feet wide, but it’s best to get an exact measurement to determine the size you’ll need. Step 2: Cut the wood Use a miter saw to cut …

Instructions : Always wear leather gloves and safety glasses when working with a chain saw. Step 1: Clean the chain Clean the chain with mineral spirits. Step 2: Inspect the chain Inspect the chain for damage. Take it in for repairs or buy a new chain if the damage is extensive. Step 3: Select the …

Instructions Step 1: Cut 2 lengths of pipe Cut 2 6-inch lengths of pipe from the 10-foot section with your saw. Step 2: Glue the short sections Use PVC cement to connect the 2 small sections to one of the 90-degree elbows. TIP: Dry-fit the sections together before gluing to make sure they fit snugly. …

Instructions Step 1: Take the door off Remove the doors and any existing floor covering. Draw a line with a pencil on the floor in the center of the door space, from doorjamb to doorjamb, so you’ll know how much to trim the flooring so that it extends halfway under the door. TIP: If you …

Instructions Step 1: Lay out your posts and rails Decide where the end, corner, line, and gate posts will be located and place a stake in the ground at each of these points. Attach a line of string between each of these stakes. TIP: Check all building codes, ordinances, and property lines to make sure …

Instructions Step 1: Check the flashing Check the flashing on your roof each time you clean your rain gutters. Look for loose nails and holes as well as for leaking seals at the edges of the flashing. Step 2: Re-anchor the flashing Re-anchor any loose flashing between roof sections with screws made of the same …

Instructions Step 1: Define an area Measure and stake out the size you want your wall to be. Then attach string around the perimeter of the stakes. Step 2: Dig out the area Dig out the area of your wall, 6 inches deep, and set the dirt aside. Step 3: Build a frame Measure and …

Instructions Step 1: Use bleach and water solution Combat moss on concrete, brick, and stone walkways by scrubbing them with a solution of 3/4 cup chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of water. Make as much of this solution as you need to clear away all of your paths. TIP: Moss can be very slick and …

Instructions : Use caution when working with electricity. Always unplug appliances from their power sources before testing unless you know how to properly test a live circuit. Do not touch exposed metal, and do not exceed the maximum voltage rating on a meter. Step 1: Identify connections Identify the connections to the circuits that you …

Instructions Step 1: Glue the frame Using a generous layer of wood glue, affix each of the 28 1/2-inch pieces to both ends of the 28-inch pieces so the planks form a rectangle with the shorter pieces on the top and bottom. Use the bar clamps to hold the pieces in place. TIP: Put pieces …

Instructions Step 1: Clean the area Clean the drywall area and remove any loose bits of plaster, spackle, and grit, depending how wide the crack has gotten. Remove old tape, textures, or popped nail heads. Step 2: Cut trench Cut a trench wider than the crack with your utility knife to get more surface area …

Instructions Step 1: Draw a box Use a pencil to draw a molding box on the wall to fit your desired look. Step 2: Use a yardstick and level Use the yardstick and level to ensure a straight, clean shape. Step 3: Repeat Trace additional boxes if desired, approximately 6 inches apart. TIP: Keep the …

Instructions Step 1: Add a folding screen Install a folding screen. This lends privacy to both sides of a shared bedroom. Screen panels are available in a wide variety of materials, including Plexiglas, fabric, wood, and paper. TIP: Do not place a room divider where it can block the airflow to a room. Step 2: …

Instructions Step 1: Apply safety gear Put on safety goggles and gloves before starting this project. Tile shards are sharp and can cut or blind you. Step 2: Smash tile Wrap the tile in an old towel and use a hammer to break it into large pieces. TIP: Check your local craft store or antique …

Instructions Step 1: Measure the hammock Lay your hammock flat and measure from each circular suspension ring on each end. The trees should be spaced apart about a foot longer than the length of your hammock. Step 2: Drill the holes Drill a hole in each tree about 5 feet above the ground, all the …

Instructions Step 1: Remove doors Remove the closet doors from the closet opening by sliding the door half open and lifting the door up into the top track; then tilt the bottom out toward you and lower the door to the floor. TIP: Place a throw rug or blanket on the floor where you plan …

Instructions Step 1: Mark corner holes Use a permanent marker to mark the location for four screw holes in the corners of the steel sheet, approximately 1/4 inch from the edges. Step 2: Drill holes Lay the sheet of steel on a worktable and drill four holes at the marked locations. TIP: Choose a surface …

Instructions Step 1: Fix banging noise Lower your water pressure at your main water line if you hear a banging noise when you turn off a faucet. The banging is the result of a shock wave moving along the water line. TIP: Consider installing a pressure-reducing valve with the pressure set no higher than 60 …

Instructions : Only work with paint stripper in a well-ventilated area. Step 1: Put on gloves and goggles Put on your gloves and goggles. Wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Step 2: Apply stripper Apply a thick coat of paint stripper to a part of the surface of your furniture. Start your …

Instructions Step 1: Open the electrical box Open the circuit breaker box and locate the switch that corresponds to the area you want to test. TIP: Turn off or unplug the electric devices in the area to avoid a power surge. Step 2: Test the switch Determine whether the breaker is in the On or …

Instructions Step 1: Cut Mark the wood and use a miter saw to cut the rectangular perimeter pieces, with both sides 24 inches high and the top and bottom 36 inches long. Cut a 2-inch strip that will serve as the wall mount if you plan to hang it. Step 2: Notch top and bottom …

Instructions : Prolonged exposure to mildew is harmful to your respiratory health. Always work in a well-ventilated area. Step 1: Remove moisture Remove the source of moisture that is feeding the mildew. Mildew can’t survive in a completely arid environment. Step 2: Mix solution Mix the bleach and laundry detergent with the warm water in …

Instructions : Always wear safety glasses when working with power tools. Step 1: Assemble the compressor Assemble the air compressor to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Connect the hose to the regulator valve. Step 2: Check the oil level Check the oil level and add oil if necessary. Step 3: Supply power and check the relief …

Instructions Step 1: Protect your trailer hitch Protect your trailer hitch by using the ball as a cover. Step 2: Give to senior center Cut a slit in the balls and give them to a senior center to make skid stoppers on the legs of walkers. TIP: You can also use them under chair or …

Instructions Step 1: Insert a drill bit Open the chuck on the drill and insert a bit between its jaws. Step 2: Secure the drill bit Tighten the jaws to secure the bit. Step 3: Mark a drilling position Use a pencil to mark the position where you intend to drill. Step 4: Position the …

Instructions Step 1: Recognize the marks on the top Recognize the marks on the top of the tape measure. The black numbers are inches and the red numbers are feet. TIP: There are 12 inches in a foot. Step 2: Identify the shorter marks Identify the shorter marks between the inch marks, divided into fractions …

Instructions Step 1: Select a drill bit Select the right drill bit for the job. If you’re drilling into sheetrock or plasterboard, you can use a drywall bit; use a masonry bit for brick, block, stone, quarry tiles, or concrete; use a spur point bit to drill through wood; and use a tile bit for …

Instructions : Do not oil roller tracks with nylon rollers. Step 1: Apply oil Apply two drops of penetrating oil onto the seams of the hinges. Squeeze the oil onto the top of the seams, so as it drips, it will lubricate the entire seam. TIP: Before lubricating, wipe away grease buildup on all rollers …

Instructions Step 1: Determine chuck size Determine the chuck size that best suits your needs. The chuck is the part of the drill that bits and other extensions fit into. They are typically 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, or 1/2-inch. Three-eighth-inch drills are best for having around the house; 1/4-inch drills are good for very light-duty work, but …

Instructions Step 1: Machine wash clothes Machine wash moldy clothes in hot water, adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Step 2: Replace drywall and insulation Remove and replace moldy drywall, insulation, carpeting, and ceiling tiles as soon as possible. Mold is impossible to remove from these items. Step 3: Wear a …

Instructions Step 1: Find the correct size Find the correct gauge on your wire strippers to match the gauge of your wire. Wire strippers have different teeth to coincide with different gauges of wire. TIP: If you do not have a wire stripper with different-sized teeth, or if you’re using a pair of pliers with …

Instructions : Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when using a power drill. Safety glasses are advised when drilling in friable matter. Step 1: Insert a drill bit Insert the chuck key into the small hole on the side of the chuck and turn it counterclockwise until the chuck can accommodate the drill bit. Slide a …

Instructions Step 1: Remove push button Remove the doorbell’s face plate from the wall with a screwdriver and pull the push button away from the door jamb without touching the wires. Step 2: Use circuit tester Use a circuit tester to measure the voltage flowing through the wires connected to the push button. If the …

Instructions Step 1: Determine what size hole to drill Determine what size hole you want to drill. TIP: Use a caliper or drill gauge to detemine the correct size if you need help. Step 2: Consider the material Consider what material you are drilling into. The twist bit is used in most applications but there …

Instructions Step 1: Study the location Decide where to put the bridge. Measure the space and assemble your materials, keeping in mind the carrying capacity of the materials you select. TIP: If you are building your bridge over a creek or stream, consider the maximum water level. The bridge’s foundation should rest on firm, dry …

Instructions : Wear safety glasses when cutting and installing laminate flooring. Step 1: Remove the old floor Remove your old floor and baseboards. Prep your subfloor by making sure it’s flat and free of any debris. Step 2: Measure your floor Measure the area you want to cover. Step 3: Install the underlayment Install your …

Instructions Step 1: Purchase quality Purchase quality tools. Although they may cost more, they are a good investment in the long run. TIP: Buy tools gradually. Don’t break the bank by buying everything at once. Step 2: Buy fastening tools Buy fastening tools, including a claw hammer; adjustable wrenches; an L-shaped, six-sided wrench; a set …

Instructions Step 1: Decide where to install your wall Use a stud finder to figure out where your new wall will go, and mark the existing walls accordingly. Remove furniture and other items. Step 2: Take measurements Measure the height and width of the frame. You’ll need a stud for every 16 inches of wall, …

Instructions Step 1: Check the weather Choose a day with good weather to clean your gutters; you don’t want to combat high winds or rain. TIP: Clean your gutters after a few dry days to make collecting debris from the gutters easier. Step 2: Hang buckets to ladder Hang your buckets on the top of …

Instructions : In their liquid forms, resin and hardener can irritate skin and eyes. Wear protective nitrile rubber gloves and safety glasses, and work in a well-ventilated space. Step 1: Clean surfaces Clean the surfaces on which you’ll be applying the epoxy resin. Step 2: Mix ingredients Mix the resin and hardener according to the …

Instructions Step 1: Find middle of back page Open the back cover of the book and use the tape measure and pencil to find and mark the middle of the last page. Trace the outline of the bracket from this center mark outward to the page’s edge. Step 2: Cut out a slot Using the …

Instructions Step 1: Watch the news Watch the local news or weather channel to determine if icing is likely the next morning. You can make preparations if it’s in the forecast. Step 2: Use calcium chloride instead of rock salt Use calcium chloride instead of rock salt. Calcium chloride prevents the formation of ice and …

Instructions Step 1: Find a suitable place Find a suitable place for a fire pit at least 30 feet away from roads, trees, buildings, cars, tents, brush, hanging branches, and any other flammable objects. Step 2: Dig a pit Dig a pit between 3 and 4 feet in diameter and 6 to 12 inches deep. …

Instructions Step 1: Remove the drawer Remove the drawer. Pull it out until it stops, then lift up the end and pull it a little bit more. This should release the drawer from its glides, also known as tracks. On some ready-to-assemble drawer units, you may have to turn a screw or a tab along …

Instructions Step 1: Reset the unit Locate and press the disposal’s reset button. Often, a disposal that’s overloaded will trigger the unit to shut down. Step 2: Turn off the power Turn off the electrical power to the disposal unit at your main electrical panel. Or, if you can easily access the power source to …

Instructions Step 1: Open all faucets Open all of your faucets to see if any water flows. If it does, run warm water through the pipes. This can help thaw a frozen spot in the pipes. Step 2: Locate the frozen spot If no water flows, locate the most likely spots where pipes might freeze. …

Instructions Step 1: Get recommendations Visit home improvement stores and lumber yards and ask for recommendations. Family, friends, and neighbors are also good resources. Step 2: Conduct phone interviews and take notes Derive a list of questions and topics. Conduct phone interviews with several contractors. Create a file with notes and information. TIP: Be specific …

Instructions : Working with electricity is dangerous. Be extremely careful and, if you have any doubts, contact a professional. Step 1: Turn off electricity Unplug a lamp from the wall plug. For a permanent fixture, shut off the circuit breaker. Step 2: Insert pliers into fixture Wearing your gloves and safety glasses, insert your needle-nose …

Instructions Step 1: Turn off the main electrical power switch to the heating and air conditioning unit. Step 2: Pry the cover from your old thermostat. Unscrew the wall mount to separate the thermostat’s wiring from the wall. Step 3: Using masking tape, label each wire as you disconnect it from its terminal connector. Then …

Instructions Step 1: Identify the type of torque wrench you have. Each type has a different means of displaying torque, or twisting force. Beam, dial, and digital wrenches have a scale or indicator. A clicker torque wrench clicks when the desired torque is reached. Step 2: Check the manufacturer specifications and determine the correct torque …

Instructions Step 1: Select a hardcover book at least 1½ inches thick. Open the book and bind the first 10 or 20 pages with a paper clip. Step 2: Mix the white craft glue with water. Using a foam brush, apply the mixture to the edges of the non-clipped pages, holding them tightly together. Step …

Instructions Step 1: Act quickly Using a combination of newspaper, paper towels, and rags, blot as much oil as possible immediately after a spill to keep it from soaking into the concrete. TIP: Take the oil-soaked paper and rags to a recycling center as soon as possible. Leave oil-soaked materials outside your house and garage …

Instructions Step 1: Attend to outdoor hoses Unhook, drain, and store outdoor hoses. Close any inside water valves that supply outdoor hose bibs. Leave outdoor hose bib valves open to allow water to drain out. TIP: Remember to drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines. Step 2: Insulate pipes Find exposed pipes in …

Instructions Step 1: Open the player Open the door to your cassette player by pressing the eject button. TIP: These tips apply to freestanding players. To clean a car cassette player, you’ll need to buy a specialized kit. Step 2: Dip the tip of a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol. …

Instructions : Be extremely careful when working with a soldering iron. Always keep the tip away from your skin, and never set it directly on a work surface. Step 1: Choose an iron Choose a soldering iron. Irons between 15 and 40 watts work best for circuit-board components and other detailed work, while 60- to …

Instructions Step 1: Make the first move If a contractor comes to you unsolicited looking for business, he may not be reputable. Ignore the contractor who comes knocking on your door with an offer and go find someone on your own. Step 2: Ask a test question Test him with a question you already know …

Instructions Step 1: Remove the shell or carrier Examine your turntable and determine if your head shell or cartridge carrier—that is, the arm that holds the needle cartridge—is removable. If so, take it off. TIP: If you’ve never replaced your needle before, you might want to replace the needle cartridge as well. Step 2: Get …

Instructions Step 1: Measure Measure the size of the doorway, then subtract a quarter of an inch from each side. This is the size of door you’ll need to buy. Step 2: Check the size Hold the door up in the doorframe to make sure the size is right. If there are any tight spots, …

Instructions Step 1: Check installation Check that the door was properly installed. Close the door and see if the top of the door lines up with the doorframe. Examine all sides of the door, then make sure the hinges are properly installed and aligned. Step 2: Test tightening See that the hinges are tight and …