http://factoidz.com/experts-in/home-improvement/ home improvement articles on Factoidz en-us http://factoidz.com/how-to-identify-and-eliminate-phantom-loads-or-vampire-power-draws/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-identify-and-eliminate-phantom-loads-or-vampire-power-draws/ Finally, after many years of being known of only by extremely frugal people and energy researchers, phantom loads or vampire power draws are making headline news. These silent thieves of energy consume up to seventy five percent of all the energy used by home electronics, according to Department ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/post/how-to-identify-and-eliminate-phantom-loads-or-vampire-power-draws.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-live-off-of-solar-power-alone/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-live-off-of-solar-power-alone/ Now that the federal government has renewed rebates of up to thirty percent for home solar energy systems many people are considering the idea of adding them to their homes. Currently the federal rebate for solar photovoltaic or PV systems, that provide some or all of a home's electricity, is thi... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/solar-power-becoming-more-affordable.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-installing-central-air-conditioning/ http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-installing-central-air-conditioning/ With the arrival of hot weather, I have received many telephone calls and emails requesting information on central air conditioning systems. The very first thing that I tell everyone is that this is not a project for the average do-it-yourselfer because there are many sp... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/guide-to-geothermal-heat-pumps.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-paint-clouds-on-a-ceiling/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-paint-clouds-on-a-ceiling/ Recently I was hired to paint a ceiling for a playroom. I have painted a lot of things in my life but this was a first. For me the only way to learn was to do. I started by finding out what kind of clouds they wanted. They wanted cirrus clouds, so my first step was to research cirrus clouds, g... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/post/how-to-paint-clouds-on-a-ceiling.jpg http://factoidz.com/mineral-spirits-common-uses-cool-tricks-and-precautions/ http://factoidz.com/mineral-spirits-common-uses-cool-tricks-and-precautions/ Mineral spirits are purchased at a paint supply store and are used for various things. Mainly they are used for paint clean up on paint brushes, mistakes made while painting, thinning paint to make it easier to scrape, and as a degreaser in auto and machine shops. I use mineral spirits to help clean... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/post/mineral-spirits-common-uses-cool-tricks-and-precautions.jpg http://factoidz.com/obtaining-a-permit-for-a-backyard-deck-is-easier-than-you-think/ http://factoidz.com/obtaining-a-permit-for-a-backyard-deck-is-easier-than-you-think/ Are you interested in adding onto your home with a custom deck? The idea can be exciting and daunting all at the same time. While you may be picturing fun-filled backyard barbecues, you may also be dreading the headache of the permit process. Don't let this process derail you deck plans. Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/building-a-diy-wood-deck-your-quick-start-guide.jpg http://factoidz.com/living-off-the-grid-diy-guide-to-transitioning-your-home-to-renewable-energy/ http://factoidz.com/living-off-the-grid-diy-guide-to-transitioning-your-home-to-renewable-energy/ There are those who believe that mankind is making an enormous adverse impact on the Earth. Some even think that the damage we humans have done is already irreversible and we have doomed the planet to an accelerated warming of the globe. There are others how... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/living-off-the-grid-diy-guide-to-transitioning-your-home-to-renewable-energy.jpg http://factoidz.com/going-green-with-tankless-water-heaters/ http://factoidz.com/going-green-with-tankless-water-heaters/ So has all the new water heaters on the market have you confused on which one is the best? Which one is the greenest and most efficient? Well don’t feel alone, there happens to be a lot of options today but the proper application is what needs to be looked at. There is no doubt that the standar... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/going-green-with-tankless-water-heaters.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-a-bathroom-vent-fan-part-2/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-a-bathroom-vent-fan-part-2/ Introduction In Part 1 of this article we ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-install-a-bathroom-vent-fan-part-2.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-a-bathroom-exhaust-fan-part-1/ http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-a-bathroom-exhaust-fan-part-1/ Introduction Installing a bathroom exhaust fan is a relatively easy project for any moderately skilled do-it-yourselfer. ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-diy-guide-to-installing-a-bathroom-exhaust-fan-part-1.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-recognize-and-avoid-contractor-impersonators-and-unlicensed-contractors/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-recognize-and-avoid-contractor-impersonators-and-unlicensed-contractors/ With the unemployment rate skyrocketing through the roof it is only natural that we might see some shifting of professions within our communities. The bank teller that you've been seeing in the drive-thru might be selling avon or waitressing at your favorite restaurant. This is fin... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-recognize-and-avoid-contractor-impersonators-and-unlicensed-contractors.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-does-service-magic-compare-with-angies-list/ http://factoidz.com/how-does-service-magic-compare-with-angies-list/ As an avid home improvement enthusiast, I do lots of renovation projects around the house (often to the chagrin of my wife!). From kitchen remodeling to bathroom projects to building new decks, I love all sorts of DIY home repair and renovation projects. For some projects I use contractors, and h... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-does-service-magic-compare-with-angies-list.jpg http://factoidz.com/painting-block-or-brick-the-easy-way/ http://factoidz.com/painting-block-or-brick-the-easy-way/ Let me start by saying that painting is probably my least favorite thing to do. I might sooner volunteer to proofread the phonebook. But...A friend of mine recently got a job painting a brick and block car dealership. He knew that my seamless gutter business was really slow... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/post/painting-block-or-brick-the-easy-way.jpg http://factoidz.com/woodworking-how-to-make-cheap-wood-look-like-expensive-wood/ http://factoidz.com/woodworking-how-to-make-cheap-wood-look-like-expensive-wood/ If you’re anything like me you like to create fine furniture for your home and for your friends using woods like mahogany and walnut but in today’s tight economy using luxury woods can really strain one’s woodworking budget. When m... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/woodworking-how-to-make-cheap-wood-look-like-expensive-wood.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-diy-electrician-what-are-arc-fault-circuit-interrupters-and-how-to-install-them/ http://factoidz.com/the-diy-electrician-what-are-arc-fault-circuit-interrupters-and-how-to-install-them/ Every year there are over 40,000 residential fires in the United States attributed to faulty electrical wiring. These fires take the lives of more than 350 men, women and children and injure over 1,200 others. The vast majority of these ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-diy-electrician-what-are-arc-fault-circuit-interrupters-and-how-to-install-them.jpg http://factoidz.com/diy-skill-set-2-wiring-a-2x4-studded-wall-for-switches-and-receptacles/ http://factoidz.com/diy-skill-set-2-wiring-a-2x4-studded-wall-for-switches-and-receptacles/ Welcome to DIY skill set 2. Before we get started with the task at hand, wiring our new walls for switches and duplex receptacles, I want to spend a moment talking about electrical codes. The NEC (National Electric Codes) provides the ba... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/diy-skill-set-2-wiring-a-2x4-studded-wall-for-switches-and-receptacles.jpg http://factoidz.com/diy-skill-set-1-framing-interior-walls/ http://factoidz.com/diy-skill-set-1-framing-interior-walls/ More and more young families today are taking on major remodeling jobs as family projects, projects like converting an unfinished basement into a finished living space. Some people may want to convert their basement into a single large r... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/diy-skill-set-1-framing-interior-walls.jpg http://factoidz.com/understanding-above-ground-pool-pump-and-filter-systems/ http://factoidz.com/understanding-above-ground-pool-pump-and-filter-systems/ The real heart of any above ground pool is the pump and filter system. It keeps the water moving in the pool, helps to remove debris, aids in the distribution of chlorine in the pool and filters for small particulates in the wa... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/understanding-above-ground-pool-pump-and-filter-systems.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-make-great-stone-paved-walkway-at-an-affordable-price/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-make-great-stone-paved-walkway-at-an-affordable-price/ There are tons of great ways to create beautiful walk ways, but when you can't afford the high costs of some of the flat stones you find at many of the home improvement centers, it's time to get creative. Nature can provide many great stones for walking, but don't always rely on it for your creat... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-make-great-stone-paved-walkway-at-an-affordable-price.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-a-new-subfloor/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-a-new-subfloor/ This article is actually a follow up to “Guide to installing a DIY Floating Wood Floor” that I pub... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-a-new-subfloor.jpg http://factoidz.com/sub-floor-repair-and-replacement-guide/ http://factoidz.com/sub-floor-repair-and-replacement-guide/ Since you’re reading this, you probably already suspect you have a problem with your sub floor. In my experience, water damage is the most common of sub floor problems. Whatever the cause, you need to resolve the problem befo... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/sub-floor-repair-and-replacement-guide.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-a-second-phone-line-in-your-home-or-home-office/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-a-second-phone-line-in-your-home-or-home-office/ The local phone company charges $75 for the visit and $40 dollars per hour to install an additional phone line. When I found out how expensive it was, I decided I could do it myself and save a bundle. I found the installation was relatively easy to complete and learned a few things along the way. An... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-install-a-second-phone-line-in-your-home-or-home-office.jpg http://factoidz.com/guide-to-replacing-broken-window-glass-how-to-cut-and-install-new-glass/ http://factoidz.com/guide-to-replacing-broken-window-glass-how-to-cut-and-install-new-glass/ With the return of warm weather the chances are you will soon need to replace a broken window or two. Stones hidden in the grass have a way of finding the nearest window when shot into orbit by a weekend yard worker cutting his or her la... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/guide-to-replacing-broken-window-glass-how-to-cut-and-install-new-glass.jpg http://factoidz.com/mortise-locks-deadbolts-and-knockers-buying-and-installing-door-locks/ http://factoidz.com/mortise-locks-deadbolts-and-knockers-buying-and-installing-door-locks/ Door knockers, dead bolts, door handles - customizing your front door is filled with a wide selection of hardware from traditional to modern styles. Boasting a wide array of designs and finishes, door hardware may be purchased as coordinating sets or bought piece by piece. Enhance the look of your h... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/mortise-locks-deadbolts-and-knockers-buying-and-installing-door-locks.jpg http://factoidz.com/is-a-cordless-battery-powered-drill-strong-enough-for-the-job/ http://factoidz.com/is-a-cordless-battery-powered-drill-strong-enough-for-the-job/ Battery powered cordless tools have been around for years and the convenience of not being attached to a power cord makes them an ideal choice for many awkward jobs. However if your experience with battery powered tools has been that they’re just too ‘wimpy’ to do a real job it may be time to ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/is-a-cordless-battery-powered-drill-strong-enough-for-the-job.jpg http://factoidz.com/phillips-slotted-cabinet-tips-clutch-head-hex-tips-making-sense-of-screwdrivers/ http://factoidz.com/phillips-slotted-cabinet-tips-clutch-head-hex-tips-making-sense-of-screwdrivers/ Screwdrivers can be usually classified as Phillips head, slotted or Robertson (square recess) head. Good Quality: You can judge the quality of your screwdriver by the type of metal in the blade, the finish and the amount of grinding on the tip. Other... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/phillips-slotted-cabinet-tips-clutch-head-hex-tips-making-sense-of-screwdrivers.jpg http://factoidz.com/diy-guide-to-installing-a-steel-copper-or-zinc-roof-for-your-home/ http://factoidz.com/diy-guide-to-installing-a-steel-copper-or-zinc-roof-for-your-home/ What follows is a short crash course on how to install metal roofing of any sort. No matter what type of metal roofing, be it copper, zinc or steel, it could be roll formed sheets or standing seams, it could be external screw fixed or have hidden clips, basic good construction practices apply to all... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/diy-guide-to-installing-a-steel-copper-or-zinc-roof-for-your-home.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-make-your-own-do-it-yourself-concrete-counter-tops/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-make-your-own-do-it-yourself-concrete-counter-tops/ Concrete counter tops have come a long ways. The once drab, utilitarian concrete counter tops now make a decorative addition to any homes kitchen and with today’s materials; they are a very doable DIY project. Professional concrete counter top designers and installers charge between $75 and $150 p... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-make-your-own-do-it-yourself-concrete-counter-tops.jpg http://factoidz.com/installing-an-above-ground-pool-instructions-what-to-expect/ http://factoidz.com/installing-an-above-ground-pool-instructions-what-to-expect/ Having a back yard above ground pool can provide you and your family with years of fun and enjoyment. But, installing an above ground pool is heavy work. I recommend that you consider having a professional do the installation. ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/installing-an-above-ground-pool-instructions-what-to-expect.jpg http://factoidz.com/starting-your-above-ground-pool-project-initial-steps/ http://factoidz.com/starting-your-above-ground-pool-project-initial-steps/ Selecting the right above ground swimming pool isn’t difficult. With a little knowledge and planning, you can have an above ground swimming pool that will give you and your family years of enjoyment. Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/starting-your-above-ground-pool-project-initial-steps.jpg http://factoidz.com/is-wall-insulation-an-effective-way-to-block-out-low-frequency-noise/ http://factoidz.com/is-wall-insulation-an-effective-way-to-block-out-low-frequency-noise/ Isn’t it amazing how much sound we’re bombarded with everyday? We love to find a quiet moment where we are not acoustically assaulted by people, equipment, traffic, stereos, neighbors, cell phones, and on and on. It’s hard to find that quiet moment, and perhaps even harder to find that soundpr... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/is-wall-insulation-an-effective-way-to-block-out-low-frequency-noise.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-selecting-and-using-a-pressure-washer/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-selecting-and-using-a-pressure-washer/ One of the most useful power tools available to any do-it-yourselfer today is the power pressure washer. It’s the best tool available for cleaning the outside of your home as preparation for painting, for cleaning and prepping your dec... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-selecting-and-using-a-pressure-washer.jpg http://factoidz.com/cool-tools-for-the-home-handy-person-go-green-with-kill-a-watt/ http://factoidz.com/cool-tools-for-the-home-handy-person-go-green-with-kill-a-watt/ Many consumer electronics consume power even when they are in the off/standby mode. Entertainment devices like TIVOs, cable and satellite TV boxes, TVs, Stereos, surround sound systems, cable and DSL modems, VCRs and DVDs, computers, com... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/cool-tools-for-the-home-handy-person-go-green-with-kill-a-watt.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-airless-spray-guns/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-airless-spray-guns/ With the nice weather here to stay many of you are contemplating painting the exterior of your homes. Your home is your castle and a fresh coat of paint will definitely add to your castle’s curb appeal but it’s a labor intensive proj... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-airless-spray-guns.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-ladder-safety/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-ladder-safety/ According to the American Academy of Orthopedic surgeons, every year an average of 500,000 people end up in the emergency room because of ladder accidents. No one knows how many others are injured but don’t seek medical attention for t... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-ladder-safety.jpg http://factoidz.com/painting-tips-give-your-home-a-fresh-look-for-spring/ http://factoidz.com/painting-tips-give-your-home-a-fresh-look-for-spring/ One of the easiest and most cost effective ways to improve your home is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Painting can liven up dull rooms, change the attitude of you home of give it an altogether fresh look. To a novice this can appe... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/painting-tips-give-your-home-a-fresh-look-for-spring.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-safety-dont-get-nailed/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-safety-dont-get-nailed/ With the invention of the pneumatic nail gun, projects that once took days can now be completed in a matter of hours. If you have never used one, by all means buy one or several because no one nail gun can be used with the myriad of diff... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-safety-dont-get-nailed.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-understanding-smoke-alarms-and-carbon-monoxide-alarms/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-understanding-smoke-alarms-and-carbon-monoxide-alarms/ Battery powered smoke alarms first became available in 1970 and their use spread like wild fire if you’ll excuse my choice of metaphors. By the year 2000, battery powered smoke alarms had found their way into 94 percent of all househol... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-understanding-smoke-alarms-and-carbon-monoxide-alarms.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-corian-style-solid-surface-counter-tops/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-corian-style-solid-surface-counter-tops/ Until relatively recently working with solid counter top material was thought to be beyond the competencies of the do-it-yourselfer but, with the recent emergence of companies like Solid Surfaces.Com, that has all changed. These companie... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handy-persons-guide-to-installing-corian-style-solid-surface-counter-tops.jpg http://factoidz.com/your-guide-to-selecting-and-installing-corian-countertops/ http://factoidz.com/your-guide-to-selecting-and-installing-corian-countertops/ Corian is a brand of solid surface countertops that was developed by the industrial powerhouse DuPont.  As such it is the original and best available solid surface countertop you can buy.  It represents the best choice in several areas, some of which include sanitation, ease of use and maintenance... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/your-guide-to-selecting-and-installing-corian-countertops.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-should-you-install-a-tankless-hot-water-heater/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-should-you-install-a-tankless-hot-water-heater/ Replacing your old energy hog of a hot water heater is on your to-do list with a new Energy Star Rated unit but you’re uncertain whether to go with a tankless hot water heater or a conventional hot water heater. You’ve read how the t... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handypersons-guide-should-you-install-a-tankless-hot-water-heater.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-building-a-basic-tool-kit/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-building-a-basic-tool-kit/ This article is written specifically for all you handypersons of the feminine persuasion out there in DIY land. You have skills and talents that rival any of your male counterparts but they have you at a disadvantage in some areas like h... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-building-a-basic-tool-kit.jpg http://factoidz.com/ideas-for-recycling-items-from-your-closet/ http://factoidz.com/ideas-for-recycling-items-from-your-closet/ Many of us have tons of unused items taking up space in our bedroom and hallway closets. Everyone knows what a pain it is trying to locate that certain item when the closet is stuffed beyond usefulness. Alleviate some of the stress in your life, keep the landfil... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/ideas-for-recycling-items-from-your-closet.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-repair-a-guide-to-installing-a-submergible-sump-pump/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-repair-a-guide-to-installing-a-submergible-sump-pump/ This is the time of the year when many people discover water seeping up through the cracks in their basement floors. This is a serious problem even if you don’t use the basement because the water will undermine the foundation and the d... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-repair-a-guide-to-installing-a-submergible-sump-pump.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-remodeling-part-2-a-guide-to-installing-a-new-vinyl-tile-floor/ http://factoidz.com/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-remodeling-part-2-a-guide-to-installing-a-new-vinyl-tile-floor/ After being complimented over and over on their beautiful Beadboard walls, Bill and Sandra were ready to tackle their next project, laying a new vinyl tile floor in the kitchen. Like many new do-it-yourselfers they were ready to run out ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-home-handypersons-guide-to-home-remodeling-part-2-a-guide-to-installing-a-new-vinyl-tile-floor.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-installing-low-voltage-landscape-lighting/ http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-installing-low-voltage-landscape-lighting/ Spring is here and it’s time to start thinking about ways to improve the appearance of our yards and the exteriors of our homes. Over the last few weeks I have received numerous calls from customers and potential customers requesting i... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-guide-to-installing-low-voltage-landscape-lighting.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-guide-preparing-your-snow-blower-for-summer-storage/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-guide-preparing-your-snow-blower-for-summer-storage/ Spring is finally here and it’s time to put your snow blower in storage. Many months will pass before you have to wheel it out and fire it up again but you want it ready to go when the next serious snow storm hits, so put it to be... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-guide-preparing-your-snow-blower-for-summer-storage.jpg http://factoidz.com/if-you-must-do-it-yourself/ http://factoidz.com/if-you-must-do-it-yourself/ Okay, you're a jack of all trades. You've done everything on your home from painting the walls to seal coating the driveway. Everyone who sees your handy work says "Hey you can do mine next!" You happily assist your neighbors and relatives with all their projects and you'd be ins... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/p/default-17.jpg http://factoidz.com/home-improvement-remodeling-prices-vary-you-can-save-on-your-projects/ http://factoidz.com/home-improvement-remodeling-prices-vary-you-can-save-on-your-projects/ Home improvement project prices can vary for the same work from place to place. For example a attic bedroom addition in Nashville, TN will go for $38,428 while in Boston, MA it will cost $60,673! (Hanley Wood, Remodeling's 2008-09 Cost vs. Value Report). You can exploit these differences by posting ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/p/default-6.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-know-when-to-do-it-yourself-vs-sub-contracting/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-know-when-to-do-it-yourself-vs-sub-contracting/ How to know when to: Do it yourself vs. Sub-contracting. Ready to add that closet to your bedroom? How about re-shingling your roof? Th... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-know-when-to-do-it-yourself-vs-sub-contracting.jpg http://factoidz.com/construction-stress-and-angieslistcom/ http://factoidz.com/construction-stress-and-angieslistcom/ Are you planning a home improvement project? There is so much to think about: budget, time, design, flow, value, financing, and so on. Who is going to do the job? That is the essential question. When you choose the service provider for this project ahead of the other entire deci... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/construction-stress-and-angieslistcom.jpg http://factoidz.com/who-should-inspect-your-roof-roofers-vs-engineers/ http://factoidz.com/who-should-inspect-your-roof-roofers-vs-engineers/ On October 22, 2008, I met with two representatives of a restoration company to inspect a residential shingle roof covering. The roof was allegedly "wind damaged" in its entir... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/who-should-inspect-your-roof-roofers-vs-engineers.jpg http://factoidz.com/cold-frame-basics/ http://factoidz.com/cold-frame-basics/ Using a cold frame to protect and grow garden plants can give you a head start on the growing season. Building a cold frame is relatively inexpensive and with a little work can make a great addition to any size garden. Using a cold frame can also give you fresh herbs and greens thru the colder month... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/p/default-8.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-roof-rain-gutters/ http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-roof-rain-gutters/ Installing your own roof gutter systems is a relatively easy diy project as long as you aren’t afraid of heights because you will be working off of ladders, your roof, and/or scaffolding. According to the Home Safety Council... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-diy-guide-to-installing-roof-rain-gutters.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-selecting-safe-efficient-gas-fireplaces/ http://factoidz.com/a-guide-to-selecting-safe-efficient-gas-fireplaces/ A gas fired fireplace can increase the heating efficiency of any home heating system as well as add charm to any living room, den, library, bedroom, etc. Gone are the days when adding a fireplace to a home meant having to have... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-guide-to-selecting-safe-efficient-gas-fireplaces.jpg http://factoidz.com/tips-for-a-succsessful-home-improvement-project/ http://factoidz.com/tips-for-a-succsessful-home-improvement-project/ Home improvement projects can be a rewarding way to customize you living space and also add value to your home. There are a few steps you can take to assure your project doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Basic skills are required for most projects. The most important is knowing when to ask for help. ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/p/default-3.jpg http://factoidz.com/do-it-yourself-diy-guide-to-building-kitchen-cabinets/ http://factoidz.com/do-it-yourself-diy-guide-to-building-kitchen-cabinets/ Someone recently asked for a simple do-it-yourself guide to building kitchen cabinets. Bearing in mind that most DIYers are not professional tradesmen, this question seems to me a contradiction in te... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/do-it-yourself-diy-guide-to-building-kitchen-cabinets.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-diy-electricians-guide-to-replacing-receptacles/ http://factoidz.com/the-diy-electricians-guide-to-replacing-receptacles/ Faulty electrical wiring is the root cause of approximately 67,800 residential fires in the United States every year. These fires cause $868 million in property damages and claim the lives of 485 adults and children every single year. Faulty electrical wiring causes twice as many residential fires a... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-diy-electricians-guide-to-replacing-receptacles.jpg http://factoidz.com/home-inspection-checklist/ http://factoidz.com/home-inspection-checklist/ What is a home inspection and why do you need one? Do you know what to look for during a home inspection? I found myself asking that very same question when my husband and I bought our home. A home inspection checks out all the major systems of the home you want to buy, or sell, so your real estat... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/home-inspection-checklist.jpg http://factoidz.com/the-best-way-to-ventilate-an-attic/ http://factoidz.com/the-best-way-to-ventilate-an-attic/ Attic ventilation is an important and critical component of a building system. Because of the tightening of the home with insulation, double pane, weather-stripped windows and doors, and the many improvement... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/the-best-way-to-ventilate-an-attic.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-add-ventilation-in-your-attic/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-add-ventilation-in-your-attic/ The best way I know how to add ventilation in your attic is to go to Menards, with your square footage of your attic space, inform him of what you would like to accomplish, and he will give you the choice of Fiberglass or Cellulose? The price are roughly the same when you break it down, but I would ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-add-ventilation-in-your-attic.jpg http://factoidz.com/choosing-natural-cleaning-products-for-your-home/ http://factoidz.com/choosing-natural-cleaning-products-for-your-home/ The supermarket shelves are lined with bottles and jugs of cleaners for the home.  "Lemony fresh!" with "scrubbing bubbles!" the labels shout.  With so many different products, how can you choose the right, or even the best one?  Another concern is whether the product contains harmful chemicals o... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/choosing-natural-cleaning-products-for-your-home.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-smoke-detectors/ http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-installing-smoke-detectors/ According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), there were 414,000 residential fires in 2007, taking the lives of 2,895 men, women, and children and injuring another 14,000. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), "Homes with a smoke detector typically have a death rate that is 40... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-diy-guide-to-installing-smoke-detectors.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-for-the-new-do-it-yourselfer/ http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-for-the-new-do-it-yourselfer/ Like most writers, I occasionally suffer from severe cases of writer’s block. I suffer from writer’s block not because I can’t think of anything to write about but because I can’t decide which idea I want to use as a subject at that time. Fortunately, something a... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:29 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-diy-guide-for-the-new-do-it-yourselfer.jpg http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-staining-concrete/ http://factoidz.com/a-diy-guide-to-staining-concrete/ There are many ways to make a drab old grey slab of concrete more attractive, even beautiful to the eye. Staining it with an appropriate concrete stain is one of the fastest and easiest. Properly applied to a properly prepared concrete slab, concrete stain will last for ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/a-diy-guide-to-staining-concrete.jpg http://factoidz.com/guide-to-geothermal-heat-pumps/ http://factoidz.com/guide-to-geothermal-heat-pumps/ Geothermal heat pumps are becoming popular for provided heat and cooling for both residential and commercial buildings. Geothermal systems can be installed in new structures and in some older building, with ... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/guide-to-geothermal-heat-pumps.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-an-outdoor-cedar-privacy-fence/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-install-an-outdoor-cedar-privacy-fence/ Installing a fence is a time consuming project, but well worth the effort if you do the job right.  Here are the steps to getting started. Assemble your tools for the job. You will need a narrow, or torpedo, shovel (if your digging the holes by hand) or you need to rent a post... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-install-an-outdoor-cedar-privacy-fence.jpg http://factoidz.com/how-to-fix-dripping-faucets/ http://factoidz.com/how-to-fix-dripping-faucets/ There are few sounds more annoying than water dripping from a leaking faucet and splashing into the sink. The sound is usually ampl... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/how-to-fix-dripping-faucets.jpg http://factoidz.com/take-the-chill-out-of-your-garage-with-diy-solar-collectors/ http://factoidz.com/take-the-chill-out-of-your-garage-with-diy-solar-collectors/ The idea of going green and saving money on energy costs at the same time can be appealing, but the initial cost of hiring a company to install solar collectors and all the related materials will require a big leap of faith the you will save enough on the... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/take-the-chill-out-of-your-garage-with-diy-solar-collectors.jpg http://factoidz.com/build-an-outdoor-room-and-spend-more-quality-family-time-in-the-backyard/ http://factoidz.com/build-an-outdoor-room-and-spend-more-quality-family-time-in-the-backyard/ In today's bad economy and in the face of bad exchange rates, traveling is simply not an option for many Americans. An interesting new trend is building outdoor rooms. People are opting to start DIY projects to build a space to relax and entertain, right in their own backyards. Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/build-an-outdoor-room-and-spend-more-quality-family-time-in-the-backyard.jpg http://factoidz.com/top-reasons-to-install-a-patio-cover/ http://factoidz.com/top-reasons-to-install-a-patio-cover/ Everyone will agree that an open patio provides a closeness to nature and allows one to admire the surrounding landscape.  A great many of us now spend a considerable time outside. The present economic times have now created a situation where we have come to appreciate our outdoors more. For many o... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/top-reasons-to-install-a-patio-cover.jpg http://factoidz.com/building-and-installing-your-own-patio-cover-or-awning/ http://factoidz.com/building-and-installing-your-own-patio-cover-or-awning/ While it is nice to have a patio open to air, sometimes there is a need to cover it. There are a variety of awnings and patio covers to meet all architectural styles and designs. Awnings / patio covers come in various colors and the design extensions are limitless. Awnings and patio covers of the... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/building-and-installing-your-own-patio-cover-or-awning.jpg http://factoidz.com/angies-list-better-alternative-to-craigslist-for-finding-local-contractors/ http://factoidz.com/angies-list-better-alternative-to-craigslist-for-finding-local-contractors/ I recently used Craigslist to find a painter for a small interior paint job. I searched my area, found a few listings, and sent out a few emails. I spoke with three painters, and setup initial appointments with two of them for the following afternoon. One n... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/angies-list-better-alternative-to-craigslist-for-finding-local-contractors.jpg http://factoidz.com/building-a-backyard-gazebo/ http://factoidz.com/building-a-backyard-gazebo/ Gazebos, like patios, have now become a popular outdoor decoration in many gardens. Gazebos have an old history and were first used by the Egyptians as free standing structures. The exact function of the gazebos in the early centuries is not known but it is widely believed that they were most likely... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/images/post/building-a-backyard-gazebo.jpg http://factoidz.com/backyard-secret-a-cheaper-way-to-repair-patio-cracks/ http://factoidz.com/backyard-secret-a-cheaper-way-to-repair-patio-cracks/ Dealing with cracks and aging walls can be a herculean and expensive task. However, there are some cost-effective methods available to improve the walls of patio which show early signs of heavy cracks and water-leakage problems. Your patio is a reflection of the beauty and upkeep your home, so ma... Wed, 31 Dec 1969 18:33:28 CST home-improvement http://factoidz.com/wp-content/themes/gabtheme/images/backyard-secret-a-cheaper-way-to-repair-patio-cracks.jpg