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Sell or Stay Put? 11 Crucial Considerations for Today's Market, According to Real Estate Experts
With the volatility in the housing market over the last few years, many sellers are wondering if now is the right tim...
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Estimate vs. Contract: What Are You Really Signing With a Contractor?
You've probably heard the advice to get everything in writing when dealing with a remodeling contractor. Any reputabl...
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The 5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Washington of 2024
Homeowners have a lot to consider when building their home protection plan. While homeowners insurance can provide va...
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The Best Way to Maximize Your Tax Refund? By Investing in These Home Improvement Projects
One of the best ways to spend a tax refund is to put it toward projects that will earn you tax credits, ensuring you ...
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All the Signs of Water Damage Under the Floor—And Why You Need to Address Them ASAP
Reader’s Digest Water damage under flooring can be caused by flooding, plumbing leaks, and leaky appliances. Cuppin...
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How Much Does a Sewage Ejector Pump Cost?
Highlights The average sewage ejector pump cost is $2,500, but a typical range is $100 to $6,500. The cost to insta...
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How to Revive Dried Elmer's, Gorilla, and Other Glue
Have you ever reached for a bottle of Elmer’s glue, craft glue, or another adhesive that has been up on a shelf for a...
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6 Crucial Tasks BobVila.com Readers Are Doing Right Now—Including 1 That Shocked Our Editors
Once the frenzy of the holiday season has passed, many people experience a change of pace in the first couple of mont...
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15 Problems Around the House That You Can Solve With Caulk
Caulk comes to the rescue in myriad projects around the house, from outdoor maintenance to indoor decorating. What ma...
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The 25 Smartest and Smallest DIYs You Can Do for Your Home
Do you have some free time this week to dedicate to home maintenance tasks, but don’t have a lot of dough to put into...
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Why You Should Sprinkle Salt Onto Your Cutting Board—and Into Your Coffee
Salt, scientifically known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is an integral part of every meal, from its use during cooking ...
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16 Best Surprising Uses for Household Items in 2023
The year 2023 has been busy for the Bob Vila team, and several of the articles we shared with our readers focused on ...
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25 Home Maintenance Problems That Only Take a Minute to Fix
Keeping your home in top-notch condition doesn’t mean spending all your free time on maintenance chores; some upkeep ...
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How Much Does Sandblasting Cost?
Highlights The answer to how much sandblasting costs is about $1,000 on average, though a typical range is $437 to $...
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What Does a Handyman Do? 8 Types of Tasks That Can Be Tackled by a Handyman
Q: I’m in need of help with some odd jobs around my house. Should I look for someone who offers general handyman serv...
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How Much Does Furniture Refinishing Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to refinish furniture ranges from $335 to $917 with a national average of $625. The exa...
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How Much Does Heat Exchanger Replacement Cost?
Highlights The average heat exchanger replacement cost is $1,500, but the range is typically $1,000 to $2,000. The ...
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What to Expect as the Average Handyman Salary, According to the State and Other Factors
Highlights The typical handyman salary runs between $29,220 to $68,930 per year, with the national average at $44,98...
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These Were the Most Popular Home Improvement Projects of 2023, According to BobVila.com Readers
There’s no shortage of tasks to do and projects to tackle as a homeowner. From necessary repairs big and small (crack...
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11 Home Improvement Things That Have Changed Since Bob Vila's First Episode of This Old House
On New Year’s Day 1979, the first house Bob Vila renovated on TV was an 1860s-era home, surely timber-framed and asse...
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2024 DIY Project Planner: The Best Home Tasks to Conquer Each Month
At the beginning of a new year, it’s natural to have some lofty ideas about all the home projects you'd like to tackl...
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How to Get Bathroom Remodel Financing With a Loan or Line of Credit
Bathroom remodels are on the to-do list for many homeowners, from those who bought fixer-uppers in need of rehab work...
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Generac Generators and Frigidaire Cooktops: 30 Recalls You Need to Know for Fall 2023
Staying on top of product recalls is essential for consumers to ensure that our families stay safe. The Consumer Prod...
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8 Steps to Take When a Product Is Recalled
Product recalls are a key part of consumer safety, indicating that a safety or quality issue is present. This issue m...
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The 5 Best Home Warranty Companies in New Mexico of 2023
Pairing homeowners insurance with a home warranty plan can be a good idea for New Mexico homeowners who want to proac...
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The 5 Best Home Warranty Companies in Missouri of 2023
A home warranty covers the repair or replacement of major home appliances and systems in the event of a breakdown due...
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8 of Our Favorite Bob Vila Quotes of All Time
1. “The purpose of our series is to show you the many steps involved in taking an old house that’s fallen on really h...
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7 Things Home Inspectors Miss and What to Do About It
A home inspection can be a vital part of the buying process. Inspectors are trained and experienced to look for real ...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Indiana of 2023
A home is more than just a place to live. It’s a place for people to build their lives, from relaxing after a long da...
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How Much Does Bowing Basement Wall Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to repair a bowing basement wall runs from $350 to $10,000, while the national ave...
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Love That Local Landmark? 5 Reasons to Buy an Old House
Older homes possess charm, character, and craftsmanship that fill some people’s heads with dreams of historic home ow...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Tennessee of 2023
When Tennessee homeowners are deciding on the best ways to insulate themselves from unexpected expenses, they have se...
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11 Lessons I Learned Renovating My Old Home
My favorite bit of trivia about our old home is that the idea for Arizona Iced Tea was born here. Well, at least that...
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Drilling in Tight Spaces: A Makita Right-Angle Drill Review
If you’re not yet acquainted with the remarkable versatility of a right-angle drill—the top tool for drilling in tigh...
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12 Outmoded Features of 1980s Homes—and How to Modernize Them Today
Say Goodbye to Your 1980s DecorWhether or not you want to believe it, the 1980s now belong to a bygone era—though you...
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10 Things Preservationists Wish You Knew About Your Old Home
If the walls in your old home could talk, they would have stories to tell. As generations have come and gone, your ol...
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7 Ways to Repurpose These Old House Features
Old homes often have plenty of magical features and charm, but they also might have characteristics that no longer se...
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Thumbtack vs. HomeAdvisor: Which One Should Contractors Choose in 2023?
Online service marketplaces have been a boon for homeowners and renters looking for contractors and service providers...
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25 Easy Home Repairs You Should Never Pay Someone Else to Do
Making small repairs from time to time is part and parcel of owning a home. While you can spend hundreds, or even tho...
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How Much Does RV Water Damage Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to repair RV water damage is between $20 and $2,800. The exact cost of RV water d...
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How to Recharge Your Car’s AC at Home
If your car AC isn’t cooling like its usual frosty self—or worse, if your car AC is blowing hot air—the chances are p...
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First American Home Warranty Vs. American Home Shield: Which Company Should You Choose in 2023?
American Home Shield and First American Home Warranty are two of the top home warranty providers in the nation, and b...
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How Much Does Fire Damage Restoration Cost?
Highlights The typical cost for fire damage restoration ranges from $2,897 to $38,461, with customers paying a natio...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Las Vegas of 2023
With a home warranty policy in place, homeowners can rest easy knowing their home’s systems and major appliances are ...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in North Carolina of 2023
From peace of mind to the bottom line, there are many reasons homeowners might decide a home warranty is worth it for...
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How Much Does Washing Machine Repair Cost?
Highlights The average cost range for washing machine repair is $50 to $450, with a national average cost of $180. ...
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21 Household Problems You Can Fix With Vaseline
Look in pretty much any medicine cabinet and you’ll probably find a tub of Vaseline. We’re all familiar with the tran...
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15 Easy Fixes for a Squeaky Bed
Few things can rob us of much-needed sleep like a squeaky bed. Because these noises can come from a variety of source...
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Frontdoor’s ‘Telehealth for the Home’ Is Disrupting the Home Service Industry
One of the most difficult challenges for homeowners is keeping up with home maintenance and repairs (and budgeting fo...
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Is DeWalt a Good Brand?
DeWalt is widely regarded as a top-tier brand in the tool industry due to its exceptional quality, durability, and pe...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in New Jersey of 2023
Despite the fact that they often take years to save for, homes are far more than a financial investment, creating a s...
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How Much Does Mudjacking, or Concrete Leveling, Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to level concrete—also known as mudjacking—is from $630 to $1,723, with a national...
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Solved! 5 Factors for Deciding Whether to Repair or Replace a Dishwasher
Q: Recently, I’ve been experiencing issues with my dishwasher. It’s an older model, and I can’t decide whether it’s w...
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Solved! How to Choose Between Roof Repair or Replacement
Q: We just had a hailstorm come through, and unfortunately, our roof sustained a bit of damage. The damage definitely...
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Solved! These Are the 7 Types of Professionals to Call for Home Repairs
Q: I recently bought my first home, and since moving in I’ve noticed a few things that need to be repaired. As a rent...
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How Much Does Sheetrock Cost?
Highlights Sheetrock typically costs between $12 and $20 per panel, and the national average is $15 per panel. The ...
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Solved! Why Is My Dishwasher Making a Loud Noise?
Q: My home’s dishwasher is usually pretty quiet, but lately I’ve noticed some unusual sounds when I run it, like thum...
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How Much Does Pool Leak Repair Cost?
Highlights Swimming pool leak repair typically costs between $10 and $3,500. Costs will vary depending on the size ...
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Liberty Home Guard vs. American Home Shield: Which Home Warranty Company Should You Choose in 2023?
Liberty Home Guard and American Home Shield are two of the biggest names in the home warranty industry, offering cove...
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The Best Air Compressors for Home Garages of 2023
Those who have never owned an air compressor for home garage use might not realize the flexible uses the tool can pro...
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Hail Damage vs. Blistering: 4 Crucial Differences Between These Types of Roof Damage
A damaged roof can require an expensive repair, but the extent of the repair (and the associated cost) will depend on...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Ohio of 2023
A home warranty is a form of property protection that can come in handy for homeowners when they find themselves in n...
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HomeAdvisor vs. Angi: Which Home Services Website Should You Use in 2023?
With the raft of home services digital marketplaces flooding the internet, it can be difficult for homeowners to choo...
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Don't Fall for These 10 Home Improvement Scams
You’re ready to tackle your next home improvement project, and all you need is a contractor to take on the job. While...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Houston of 2023
For the homeowners who opt for them, a home warranty can mean significant savings on critical home system and applian...
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Liberty Home Guard Review: A Top-Tier Home Warranty Provider To Consider—If You Can Get Past Its Flaws
Part of being a diligent homeowner is preparing for the unexpected. Routine upkeep will help maintain the property, b...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Dallas of 2023
A home is more than just a place to live. It’s a place for memories to be made, for families to grow, and for friends...
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Bob and Tim: Together Again When "Home Improvement" Airs on Disney+
If you’re a fan of “Tool Time” and are ready for more power, you are in luck. Disney+ will soon begin streaming seaso...
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The Best Home Warranties for Older Homes of 2023
Home warranties can serve as a powerful tool for homeowners, allowing them to protect their home and the systems that...
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The Best Home Warranties for Pre-Existing Conditions of 2023
From home warranties to home insurance, homeowners have several options they can explore to protect their home and th...
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How Much Does Oil Tank Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to remove an oil tank from a home is between $400 and $3,000, with a national average co...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Virginia of 2023
When it comes to protecting their homes, homeowners have several tools at their disposal. From home warranties to hom...
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7 Things You Didn't Know Can Delay Your Home Renovation
Renovation projects can be a lot of fun. They allow folks the ability to get creative, work with their hands, or brin...
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How to Replace the Wax Ring on a Toilet
For something you can’t even see, a lot is riding on a toilet’s wax ring. These unsung heroes create a watertight gap...
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Save $150 On Any Home Warranty Plan During American Home Shield's Memorial Day Sales Event
American Home Shield has a great deal this Memorial Day weekend: for a limited time only, the company is knocking $15...
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The Best Pool Patches of 2023
Most modern pool patches are easy to use, effective, and very low cost when compared with professional repair. They n...
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Solved! Does a Home Warranty Cover Water Heaters?
Q: At our real estate agent’s suggestion, we bought a home warranty when we purchased our home earlier this year. Tod...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Oklahoma of 2023
A home warranty is one of several tools homeowners can leverage to protect their home, offering financial support in ...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Louisiana of 2023
Home warranties can provide invaluable peace of mind to first-time home buyers and experienced homeowners alike. In t...
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Renters: It's OK to Ask Your Landlord for These Home Upgrades
Welcome to The State of Rentals with Bob Vila, a series dedicated to showing both landlords and tenants the crucial s...
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When to Call Your Landlord Immediately—And When to Solve the Problem Yourself
Welcome to The State of Rentals with Bob Vila, a series dedicated to showing both landlords and tenants the crucial s...
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How Much Does It Cost to Repipe a House?
Highlights The typical cost to repipe a house falls between $1,500 and $15,000, and the national average cost is $7,...
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Select Home Warranty Vs. American Home Shield: Which Company Should You Choose in 2023?
Select Home Warranty and American Home Shield are among the most popular home warranty companies available to homeown...
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15 As-Seen-on-TV Products That Are Actually Worth Buying
Have you ever been tempted to buy one of those products you see advertised on TV infomercials? Sure, the spokesperson...
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The Best Home Warranties for Mobile Homes of 2023
A home is more than just a place to eat, sleep, and repeat. Whether mobile or stationary, a home is a place to relax,...
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How Much Does Hardie Board Siding Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for Hardie Board siding is from $6 to $13 per square foot. Some of the most influ...
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How to Recoup Your Energy Efficiency Home Improvements at Tax Time
Energy-efficient home upgrades benefit the environment by reducing energy demands and air pollution, plus they can pu...
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The Best Home Warranties for Pool Coverage of 2023
It’s easy to understand the appeal of having a swimming pool. Especially for those in warm climates, having a pool ca...
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Solved! How Long Does Super Glue Take to Dry?
Q: The handle just broke off one of my favorite china teapots. I want to try fixing it with super glue, but I don’t k...
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The Best Home Warranties for Sellers of 2023
Although people more commonly think of getting a home warranty when buying a home, it can also be a useful tool for s...
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American Home Shield Just Slashed A Whopping 50% Off Select Home Warranty Plans
Home warranty company American Home Shield has a great deal just in time for the spring season: 50 percent off some o...
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The Best Home Warranties for Landlords of 2023
Home warranties can provide valuable peace of mind to any homeowner, but for landlords, the property isn’t just a hom...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Pennsylvania of 2023
A home warranty can serve as an added layer of security for homeowners in the event a major home system or appliance ...
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How Much Does Driveway Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to repair a driveway ranges from $798 to $2,635, with the national average at $1,715. T...
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The Top Projects Bob Vila Editors Have Planned for 2023
If your home improvement project list is overwhelming, you’re not alone. Here at Bob Vila, we editors are right there...
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How Much Does it Cost to Reupholster a Chair?
Highlights The typical cost range to reupholster a chair is $50 to $2,000, with many customers paying an average of ...
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Getting a Tax Refund? These Are the Best Home Improvements to Make With $100 to $10,000
If you're a tax procrastinator and you're just now finding out that you're getting a refund, it might be tempting to ...
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How to Hire the Best Painting and Drywall Repair Service Near You
Walls aren’t something most people think about too often, unless they’re considering updating the colors or adding wa...
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The Best Home Warranties for Septic Systems of 2023
For many homeowners, the septic system is out of sight, out of mind. But finding the septic tank and taking steps to ...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Illinois of 2023
From insurance to warranties, there are several tools homeowners can leverage to protect their house and the systems ...
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I Hired ServPro to Repair Water Damage After a Flood—Did It Sink or Swim?
Household emergencies can lead to long-term headaches for homeowners. Kitchen fires, water leaks, storms, and floods,...
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8 Handy Substitutes for WD-40 Around the House
WD-40 has earned its reputation as a jack-of-all-trades. Its top-secret ingredients list blends lubricants, anti-corr...
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How to Hire the Best Concrete Crack Repair Service Near You
Walking down a sidewalk without stepping on a crack is still a popular playground game, but it’s much less fun when i...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Florida of 2023
Owning a house in Florida comes with a fair amount of responsibility, as the persistent threat of hurricanes and floo...
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How to Replace a Toilet Fill Valve
Typically, toilet fill valves last about 5 years without any issues, depending on the quality of the valve, hard wate...
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Solved! How Long Does Grout Take to Dry?
Q: The grout in my shower is cracking, so I’ve decided to remove it and apply new grout. I’m not sure how long I shou...
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The Great Debate: Can You Over Improve a House?
You’ve doubtless heard the mantra of “Location, Location, Location” as the defining factor when buying a home and kno...
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The Only 10 Things You Need on Hand When Shopping at The Home Depot
Every successful home improvement project starts with a projected timeline, a target completion date, and a list of n...
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Home Improvement and Preparedness Tax Holidays in Each State
Investing in home improvement and emergency preparedness supplies is a priority for many Americans, but these items o...
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10 Ways to Renew Old Wood Furniture
With some love and a bit of elbow grease, wood furniture can have multiple lives. According to the Environmental Prot...
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The Best Home Warranties for Plumbing Coverage of 2023
Plumbing issues, such as leaky pipes or a malfunctioning hot water heater, can be more than just a nuisance. A leaky ...
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How Much Does TV Screen Repair Cost?
Highlights The average cost range to repair a TV screen is between $200 and $1,000. There are several factors that ...
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12 Home Project Procrastination Hacks That Beat Your Brain at Its Own Game
They say the most challenging part of any project is starting, but the real test is taking a task to the finish line....
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Solved! This Is Who to Call for Water in a Crawl Space
Q: Is water in crawl space after heavy rain normal? I recently noticed water buildup in my crawl space following a st...
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How to Weld Your Own Stuff
Welding is an increasingly popular hobby, and for good reason. It can be used to fix a gate or repair a car, saving a...
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How Much Does Drywall Repair Cost?
Highlights Drywall repair costs around $294 to $876, with homeowners paying an average of $573 nationally. The exac...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Maryland of 2023
Maryland residents may be interested in the financial protection provided by a home warranty, especially if they’re c...
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Small Miracles: 12 Amazing Home Repair Products For Fixing Just About Anything
A lived-in home, especially one with kids and pets, gets plenty of wear and tear. Some damaged items require costly r...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Georgia of 2023
HVAC systems, refrigerators, and laundry machines can fail at any moment, and through no fault of the homeowner. Norm...
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Solved! Why Is My Furnace So Loud?
Q: My furnace is making loud rumbling noises, and I don’t know what to do. Why is my furnace so loud all of a sudden?...
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How Much Do Concrete Cleaning and Sealing Services Cost?
Highlights The average price range for concrete cleaning and sealing services is $1,250 to $1,750, with customers pa...
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American Home Shield vs. Choice Home Warranty: Which One Should You Choose in 2023?
Homeowners who have looked into their home warranty options have probably come across American Home Shield and Choice...
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7 Clever Ways to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger
It’s never an ideal situation: A quick trip to the bathroom followed by a single flush and, boom, you’re dealing with...
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20 Most Expensive Things Bob Vila Readers Bought in 2022
Bob Vila readers were busy in 2022, tackling DIY projects and finding ways to make their life simpler and their home ...
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The Best Hardwood Floor Refinishing Companies and Contractors
Hardwood floor refinishing is a big job and takes a lot of time. Knowledge of the machines and their uses, the progre...
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Solved! Who Do You Hire to Fix Squeaky Floors?
Q: Recently my living room floor has started squeaking in several places. I’m not sure how long this has been going o...
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Solved! Who Fixes Garbage Disposals?
Q: Help—my garbage disposal stopped working unexpectedly today, and I still have a sink full of dirty dishes to wash!...
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Solved! 5 Reasons Your Microwave Fan Won’t Turn Off
Q: I’ve been noticing that after I use the microwave, the fan stays on for minutes after the cook time is over. Why w...
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8 Essential Renovations to Make in Your Short-Term Rental to Boost Income
The short-term rental space has become saturated in the past few years. Landlords looking to boost their rental incom...
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The Best Driveway Paving Companies of 2023
Gravel and dirt driveways are highly susceptible to freezing and erosion. When the weather is warmer, heavy rain can ...
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The 22 Most Useful Home Products Bob Vila Readers Bought in 2022
Every year product experts at Bob Vila do thousands of hours of hands-on testing and online research. We carry out in...
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How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Sliding Glass Door?
Highlights The cost to replace a sliding glass door can range from $1,051 to $3,414, with the national average price...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Arizona of 2023
The Arizona desert can be harsh on home systems and appliances, causing them to wear down quicker than they might in ...
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Our Best Advice for the Most Frequently Asked Questions of 2022
Homeowners face a variety of common conundrums, and they know just where to go for the best advice. From appliances o...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in West Virginia of 2023
Budgeting for unexpected expenses isn’t always easy, and as is the case around the country, many West Virginia reside...
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How to Make Every Appliance in Your Home Last Longer and Run More Efficiently
Home appliances make our lives easier by washing our clothes, helping us cook meals, heating and cooling our homes, a...
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Solved! What Does It Mean to Say a House Is Settling?
Q: I recently bought a newly built home, but I’ve noticed hairline cracks in the foundation over the last couple of m...
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Solved! Who Repairs Gas Fireplaces?
Q: I tried turning on my gas fireplace for the first time this season, and for some reason, it won’t light. I think i...
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How to Dispose of a Couch Properly
Q: I just bought a new couch, and it’s going to be delivered next week. My old couch has certainly seen better days, ...
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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Glass Stove Top?
Typical Range: $150 to $800Glass stove tops look sleek and modern and provide excellent heat control, but these ass...
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How Much Does Sagging Floor Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $300 to $6,500Should homeowners be concerned when their floors feel more like ramps than level and s...
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How Much Does Gutter Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $193 to $620 National Average: $383Gutters are intended to direct rainwater away from a home to hel...
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How Much Does Slab Leak Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $630 to $4,400 National Average: $2,290When plumbing leaks happen beneath a home’s concrete slab fo...
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How Much Does Ceiling Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $419 to $1,359 National Average: $884Ceiling damage can be linked to multiple issues. Hidden water ...
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How Much Does Cracked Sewer Pipe Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $50 to $250 per foot National Average: $150 per footA sewer line is a single pipe that transports w...
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How Much Does Water Heater Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $221 to $964 National Average: $591A water heater does exactly what its name suggests: It heats wat...
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20 Things to Fix Around the House for Under $20
Your home is likely one of the biggest investments you have, and it’s important to maintain your home’s value by taki...
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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Subfloor?
Typical Range: $428 to $2,978 National Average: $572Subfloors are boards installed a layer or two below floors to ...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies in California of 2023
A home warranty can be a good investment for homeowners who want some financial protection in case their appliances o...
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11 Places in the U.S. With No Building Codes
Building codes are an important safeguard to have in place to protect people from dangerous construction practices an...
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American Home Shield Review: A Jack-of-All-Trades Among Home Warranty Companies
Owning a house or condo can be expensive, and that’s before taking into account the cost to maintain appliances and h...
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The Best Home Warranties for Roof Coverage of 2024
Repairs to roof leaks can be some of the most expensive a homeowner will undertake. Water damage is a serious issue u...
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Roto-Rooter Is One Of the Best Plumbing Companies—But Is the Same True About the Plumbers?
At some point, every homeowner will likely need to hire a plumber, whether it’s to stop a leaking pipe or fix a washi...
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How to Remove Heat Stains From Wood: 7 Methods That Work
Heat stains are an enduring concern for both seasoned homeowners and those who have just made their first furniture p...
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Every Factor Influencing Chimney Repair Cost
Highlights The typical range for chimney repair costs is $160 to $750, with a national average of $455. Cost factor...
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8 House Flippers All DIY Fans Should Be Following on Social Media
Having trouble finding the motivation you need to start a home reno? Sounds like it’s time to add some inspiring DIYe...
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Solved! Who Do I Call to Fix My Washing Machine?
Reader’s Digest According to Stuart Pyburn, a franchise business coach for Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly company, “Sig...
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Solved! Why Do I Have a Leaking Chimney, and How Do I Fix It?
Q: We absolutely love our fireplace and use it all fall and winter long. But recently I have been noticing water in a...
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The Best Home Warranties for Rental Properties of 2023
Owning rental property can be a great way to generate passive income and establish a successful long-term financial s...
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No Money? Here's How You Can Still Flip a House
Flipping houses can be a good way to make a lot of money in the right circumstances, but the barriers to entry are of...
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The Best Home Warranties for Condos of 2023
Part of the appeal of owning a condo is knowing that the condo association often collectively shares the responsibili...
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How Much Does It Cost to Flip a House?
Typical Range: $17,920 to $78,082 National Average: $47,903Optimistic real estate investors often enter a house fl...
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How Much Does Sewer Line Replacement Cost?
Typical Range: $1,253 to $4,701 National Average: $2,914Repairing or replacing a sewer line isn’t usually at the t...
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How Much Does Wallpaper Removal Cost?
Typical Range: $420 to $1,190 National Average: $786Wallpaper goes in and out of style, and does so with great gus...
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The Best PVC Pipe Cutters
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe is a common material in drains, vents, water mains, and irrigation systems because it’s...
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10 Simple Solutions for the Most Stressful DIY Projects
From fixing leaky pipes to unclogging a toilet, some DIY repairs can make you sweat bullets when they go wrong. And, ...
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The Best Skylights of 2023
Skylights not only make a space brighter by letting in natural sunlight but also help lower energy bills by reducing ...
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The Best Root Killers for Sewer Lines
Slowly draining bathtubs and sinks, gurgling noises coming from the drain, toilets that regularly back up—though thes...
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How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost?
Highlights Water damage restoration typically costs between $1,305 and $5,707, with customers paying a national aver...
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How to Open Painted-Shut Windows
When you move into an older home, it's not uncommon to find at least one window painted shut. Wood windows add plenty...
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Solved! What Are the Signs of Water Damage in Walls, and What Should I Do About Them?
Q: I think I hear water running in my home, and I’m afraid there’s a leak somewhere. How do you know if you have wate...
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Solved! Why Is My Washing Machine Not Filling With Water, and How Do I Fix It?
Q: I’ve been trying all day to do my laundry, but my washing machine is not filling with water. Is this something I c...
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How Much Does a Blacktop Driveway Cost to Install?
Typical Range: $3,109 to $7,082 National Average: $4,854Homeowners have several options when it comes to driveway ...
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The Best Lubricants for Squeak-Free Door Hinges
While it’s great for setting the mood in a horror movie, the sound of a squeaking hinge can be downright irritating. ...
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Solved! Why Is My Sump Pump Running Without Rain, and What Should I Do?
Q: I’ve been noticing a constant noise coming from my basement, and I finally realized that it’s the sump pump. But i...
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I Used HomeAdvisor to Find a Contractor and Got More Than I Bargained For
Keeping a home well tended is a big job, and for busy homeowners—even those who are comfortable taking on repair proj...
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How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper
One of the most overlooked parts of a bathroom sink is the sink plug; this is because many people don’t understand th...
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10 Caulking Mistakes You're Making—and How To Fix Them
Whether you need to create a watertight seal between a bathtub and tile, seal a leak around a window, or give a finis...
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Solved! Who Installs Sump Pumps?
Q: I have a basement in my home that is in need of a new sump pump. Who installs sump pumps? Should I call a plumber ...
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How Much Does Foundation Crack Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $250 to $800There are many different types of foundations, but they all have one thing in common: th...
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How Much Does AC Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $100 to $610 National Average: $369Air conditioning circulates, filters, and cools a home’s air. If...
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Solved! Why Is My Sump Pump Not Working, and What Can I Do About It?
Q: Lately, my sump pump has been making weird noises, and today it’s been cycling on and off. Why is my sump pump not...
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Lumber Prices Are Lower, but Here's Why Your Home Projects Could Still Cost More
The skyrocketing price of lumber has dominated headlines in the residential construction world over the past couple o...
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The Right to Repair Movement Is Heating Up—Here's What All DIYers Need to Know
After you purchase a car, grill, phone, generator, or pretty much any other product, the general assumption is that y...
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The Best Foundation Repair Companies
Cracking, crumbling, and tumbling foundations are nothing short of terrifying. When homeowners first see the signs of...
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Ice Maker Not Working? Troubleshoot The Issue With These 8 Tips
Q: My ice maker stopped working and now I can’t get any ice cubes from it. Why is the ice maker not working, and how ...
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Solved! How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?
Q: We’ve had the same garbage disposal since we moved into our house about 10 years ago. It’s been struggling lately ...
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How Much Does Appliance Repair Cost?
Highlights Appliance repair has a typical cost range of $107 to $247, with a national average cost of $176. The cos...
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Solved! Why Is There a Crack in the Basement Wall, and What Do I Do About It?
Q: I recently noticed a crack in my basement wall, and I’m concerned it’s a foundation issue. Is there a difference b...
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The Best Underlayments for Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is becoming increasingly popular for its ability to recreate the look of solid wood while being ...
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How Much Does Pool Liner Replacement Cost?
Highlights The typical range for pool liner replacement costs is $1,125 to $3,688 with a national average of $2,393....
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Is It Better to Repair or Replace a Damaged Deck? 4 Ways to Tell
Q: I spend a lot of time on my deck, and lately I’ve noticed a few creaky boards and some rotting on the railing. We’...
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50 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do
While certain home repairs require a professional, many maintenance tasks can be handled on your own. Learning these basic skills will help you become a more self...
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Ugly Yard 911: 9 Ways to Make Over (or Hide) the Worst Parts of Your Property
Curb appeal matters when you’re selling your house, but it can also be a point of pride. The same is true of the cond...
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Risky Business: Angi’s Biggest Problem Is Itself—But Is It Worth Trying?
Leaky sinks. Overflowing toilets. Rotted deck boards. Anyone who owns a home or lives in a space they own and need to...
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The Best 50-Gallon Gas Water Heaters
A 50-gallon water heater is usually the recommended size for houses with one to three bathrooms and families of three...
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The Best Borescopes: Tiny Cameras on Arms to See Inside Walls
Even for DIYers with excellent eyesight, there are certain barriers through which they’ll never see. Whether it’s an ...
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The Best Home Inspection Services
A thorough home inspection is essential to ensure a property’s health. From inspecting for issues like mold in the ba...
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Solved! How Long Does Spackle Take to Dry?
Q: I recently moved into a new fixer-upper home. There are several spots on the walls and ceilings that need repair, ...
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Bob Vila's 10 “Must Do” Projects for June
The first day of summer is almost here, and memories of the long, cruel winter have all but left our collective consc...
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DIY Disasters: 9 Homeowner "Fixes" That Can Mess Up Your House
DIY projects can keep home maintenance costs low, but it’s important to only tackle jobs you have the knowledge, expe...
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The Best Metal-Cutting Saws
Sawing through metal by hand is hard work! A hacksaw can tackle occasional small jobs, but for larger pieces or if yo...
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The Best Glues for Rubber
When it comes to gluing rubber to rubber or a variety of diverse substrates, the project’s success depends on selecti...
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The Best Glues for Felt
Felt is a thick and warm material made from matted or compressed fibers. These may be natural wool, synthetic fibers,...
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The Best Glues for Cardboard
Creative art-and-craft projects as well as utilitarian home repairs sometimes call for gluing cardboard to cardboard ...
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The Best Fire Damage Restoration Services of 2023
Fires can be terrifying and destructive, leaving behind serious damage to a home the belongings inside it. However, s...
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How Much Does an AC Compressor Cost to Replace?
Highlights The typical range for AC compressor cost is $800 to $2,800, with a national average of $1,200. Some of t...
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The Best Caulk Removal Tools for Your Tool Kit
Old caulk has a way of stealing the show—and not in a good way. That dingy, cracked sealant can deter from the clean ...
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How To Spot—And Avoid—Home Warranty Scams
Q: I’m buying an older home, and my real estate agent has suggested that a home warranty might be a good choice to he...
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18 Home Improvement Projects You Can Tackle with Your Tax Refund
You don’t have to spend a fortune to make updates to your home, and even an arrival of a small amount of cash from a ...
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17 Surprising Ways to Use Steel Wool Around the House
Steel Wool, Still Going StrongA tool that’s now commonplace in the modern home, steel wool came about somewhat by acc...
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Solved! Who Fixes Water Heaters?
Q: My water heater has recently started making weird noises. It’s a few years old, but I don’t think it’s ready to be...
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Solved! Can You Caulk Over Caulk?
Q: I am renovating most of my bathroom, but I’m not changing the shower tiles or bathtub. However, the caulk lines be...
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The Best Handyman Services
Those who own a home know that they require various repairs, upgrades, and maintenance. While there’s occasionally a ...
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Solved! Do I Really Need a Home Warranty for a New Construction?
Q: Our real estate agent has recommended that we ask for or purchase a home warranty for our home. We thought warrant...
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Solved! Does USAA Offer a Home Warranty?
Q: We are a military family, and we are buying a new home. Our real estate agent has advised that a home warranty wou...
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The Best Home Services of 2024
Investing in high-quality home services is an important way for customers to take care of their properties. There are...
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How Much Does Driveway Sealing Cost?
Typical Range: $250 to $768 National Average: $486Driveway sealcoating can prolong the life of a driveway and prot...
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Solved! How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?
Q: We thought we would have more time before our HVAC system needed to be replaced. On a recent annual service call, ...
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How Much Does Radiator Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $100 to $550 National Average: $325Radiators have been a source of reliable heat in many homes sinc...
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How Much Does Refrigerator Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical range for the cost to repair a refrigerator is $200 to $300 with a national average of $250. ...
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How to Lubricate a Garage Door to Keep It Operating Smoothly
Automatic garage doors simplify our lives. However, without regular maintenance, these modern-day conveniences might ...
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How to Be Your Own Auto Mechanic
DIY automotive maintenance and repair is easier than you might think—and it will save you a bundle, to boot. Often th...
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Patchwork Renovating: How to Match Discontinued Tiles, Flooring, and Other Building Materials
Dropping a heavy object that shatters a couple of ceramic floor tiles or discovering rot in a hardwood floor necessit...
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13 Genius Products for Fixing Walls and Ceilings Yourself
Cracks in walls and ceilings are eyesores that draw attention in an otherwise attractive setting. Though they’re ofte...
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The Best Home Warranty Companies of March 2024
The best homeowners insurance companies can help cover the cost of repairing damage to a home caused by certain weath...
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The Best Drywall Sanders Tested in 2023
Few people look forward to sanding drywall. It’s messy and laborious. Fortunately, there are now a wide variety of to...
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How to Change a Car Battery Like a Pro
Car battery replacement is a must-do automotive maintenance task that needs to be completed on a semi-regular basis. ...
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The Best Glue for Metal of 2023
Gluing metals can be challenging for a number of reasons. Metals are not porous, so glues can’t penetrate the surface...
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Solved! How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?
Q: We have decided to renovate our home to make it into our dream house rather than move, but it will be a pricey ren...
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The Best Home Repair Services of 2024
All homes require regular home maintenance services, and sometimes, they need more—they need the services of home rep...
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The Best Drill Bits for Tile Tested in 2023
Drilling holes in tile—to install towel rods in a bathroom renovation, say—can be tricky. There's always a risk the t...
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No Pro Needed: 6 Concrete Repairs You Can Fix on Your Own
Don’t let concrete’s durability and strength fool you; it’s easier to work with than you think! With the right products, you can handle your own concrete repairs ...
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Everything You Need to Know About Flooded Basement Cleanup
A flooded basement is one of the most dreaded home maintenance problems. Seeing standing water in the basement, wheth...
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The Best Caulk for Baseboards
Many DIYers are familiar with running caulk around their bathroom fixtures, and a number of products are designed spe...
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Solved! Do I Need a Home Warranty?
Q: Several of the home listings I’ve seen recently have included a home warranty, but the one I’d like to buy does no...
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Chimney Inspection Near Me: How to Hire for a Chimney Inspection
A chimney inspection is a vital part of owning a fireplace with a chimney. They’re usually performed with regular chi...
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How Much Does Dumpster Rental Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to rent a dumpster is $293 to $479, with customers paying a national average of $3...
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8 Ways to Fix a Floor: Tried-and-True Solutions to the Most Common Flooring Issues
Your flooring problems might not be as unique as you think. Floors come in many shapes, sizes, styles, and materials,...
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Water Heater Making Noise? Every Sound That's Cause for Concern, Explained
Q: Recently, I’ve noticed my hot water heater making an unusual noise that I’ve never heard before, and I’m not sure ...
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How to Hire the Best Chimney Repair Service After Searching ‘Chimney Repair Near Me’
Having a working fireplace is a luxury that many homeowners relish. It can help cut down on energy bills, serve as a ...
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I Tested the Raptor Gutter Guard: Is it Worth the Cost?
There probably aren’t too many folks who would choose to spend a beautiful autumn afternoon cleaning gutters. The nas...
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Help! I Extended My Home Warranty—Was That the Right Move?
Q: When I bought my home, it came with a 1-year home warranty. I haven’t really needed to use it, but some of the app...
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Solved! Does a Home Warranty Cover Water Damage?
Q: A pipe burst in the basement while we were out for the day. We arrived home to 2 feet of water in the basement—and...
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The Best Gutter Sealants to Prevent Leaks and Damage, Tested
The main purpose of guttering is to channel rainwater away from the home and prevent it from damaging the foundation ...
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13 Cheap Home Repair Products You Never Knew You Needed
Perform your own home repairs and maintenance using these affordable, problem-solving products.
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The 11 Most Expensive Appliance Parts to Replace
When replacement parts are this costly, you're often better off replacing a failing appliance altogether.
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The Best Air Compressor Hoses for All Your Building and Repair Needs
An air compressor is a valuable asset in any workshop. For jobs as varied as fixing a deflated tire to building a she...
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Putting Your Home on the Market? Make These 10 Fixes First
Want top dollar when selling your home? It's a good idea to make these changes before the photographer—and home inspector—show up.
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12 Home Maintenance Services You Should Book ASAP, According to Experts
While the days are still long and the temps are soaring, preparing a home for the coming winter is the last thing on ...
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Solved! How Long Does A Furnace Last?
Q: I live in an older home with an older furnace. It’s gone through a lot of repairs since I’ve lived here. How long ...
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Solved! Why Is My House So Cold?
Q: I keep turning my heat up, but my house can’t seem to get warm. Why is my house so cold? Is something wrong with m...
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How Much Does a Concrete Slab Cost?
Typical Range: $3,600 to $7,200 National Average: $5,400When you need to rely on a stable foundation, you can almo...
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What Is a Contractor? All You Need To Know About What Contractors Can Do
Q: I’m looking to hire a professional for my home renovation project. Someone has just recommended a contractor to me...
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Solved! How Does A Tankless Water Heater Work?
Q: I recently moved to a home with a tankless water heater, and I want to make sure I’m correctly maintaining it. How...
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I Tried a Cordless Tire Inflator―Did It Work?
Whether it’s inflating a flat tire, bumping up the pressure on a mountain bike, or inflating a pool float, having a p...
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What Is a Home Warranty, and What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
Q: I’m house-hunting for the first time, and I’ve noticed that some listings note that they include a home warranty. ...
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Solved! Why is My Flashlight Not Working?
Q: Help! My flashlight won’t light up. I’ve only had it for a few months, so age isn’t the issue. Why is my flashligh...
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Solved! Why Is My Outside AC Unit Not Turning On?
Q: We’ve been in a heatwave, so we’ve had the AC on. When I went outside earlier, I noticed that the outside AC unit ...
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How Much Does a Plumber Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to hire a plumber is between $180 and $489, with a national average of $331. The ...
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Solved! Does Copper Rust?
Q: I have a pair of heron garden ornaments made of copper that are showing greenish blue patches. I had thought they ...
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How Much Does Roof Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical range for roof repair cost is $379 to $1,758, with a national average cost of $1,060. The si...
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How Much Does Foundation Repair Cost?
Highlights Foundation repair typically costs between $2,164 and $7,793, with the national average foundation repair ...
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6 Signs of Structural Damage You Should Never Ignore
Owning a home comes with some inevitable responsibilities, including maintaining and repairing problems before they w...
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Solved! Why Is My Toilet Tank Sweating?
Q: For a few days now, I’ve noticed my toilet tank is sweating, and it’s starting to drip and discolor the wall behin...
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How to Find a Leak in a Pool
Whether a pool was just put in by one of the best pool installation companies, or it is several years old, the though...
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How To Fix a Sagging Roof
A roof is one of the essential components that protects a home from harsh elements such as strong winds, ice, and hea...
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How To Fix a Leaning Fence
A leaning or sagging fence not only diminishes a home’s curb appeal, but if it’s left unrepaired, it can also lead to...
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5 Signs It’s Time to Call in a Professional
You might think of yourself as pretty handy around the house. You can build your own shed foundation, you’ve mastered...
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Solved! Why Is My Central AC Not Blowing Cold Air?
Q: Help! We’ve just had our first heatwave and we want to cool the house—but our central AC is not blowing cold air. ...
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How Much Does Vinyl Siding Cost?
Highlights The cost to install vinyl siding ranges from $6,370 to $17,615, with customers paying a national average ...
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The Best Concrete Patches
Concrete surfaces crack by nature. To underscore their brittle nature, specially designed joints placed in concrete h...
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Gutter Replacement: Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
A well-installed rain gutter protects a home and its foundation from water that could seep into the walls or pool on ...
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How Much Does Roof Replacement Cost?
Highlights Roof replacement can cost between $5,727 to $12,418, with a national average of $9,072. The main factors...
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The Best Spackle
The strongest walls in a home will inevitably take a beating over the years, leaving pinholes, gashes, and rough scuf...
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How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House?
Highlights The typical cost to paint a house ranges from $1,811 to $4,435, with a national average cost of $3,087. ...
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How Much Does It Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors?
Highlights The typical cost for hardwood floor refinishing ranges from $1,098 to $2,653, with a national average cos...
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Should You DIY or Hire a Pro for Exterior House Painting?
If you’re debating painting your home’s exterior yourself or hiring a professional, there are a number of things to c...
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Solved! 4 Fixes for When a Door Won't Latch
Q: We have a bathroom door that sometimes won’t latch, so the door can still be opened with a simple push. This has l...
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The Best Deck Resurfacers to Refinish Your Outdoor Space
There comes an unfortunate time in the life of a deck owner when it becomes apparent that a beloved backyard party sp...
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Can I DIY Home Improvement? Or Should I Hire a Professional?
Oftentimes, DIY home improvement projects have an allure to them. They seem easy to tackle with the right tools and t...
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How Much Are Home Renovation Costs? Home Remodeling and Renovation Costs Explained
Typical Range: $18,161 to $76,367 National Average: $46,748The housing market can be a dog-eat-dog world, and find...
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The Best Concrete Crack Fillers for DIY Repairs, Tested
Though incredibly stable and durable, concrete is not indestructible, and that’s where concrete crack fillers can mak...
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The Best Epoxy for Aluminum
Metal epoxy is an essential item for repairing aluminum and other types of metal. Epoxy consists of an adhesive and a...
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The Best Windshield Repair Kits for Fixing a Crack
At highway speeds, even a tiny stone can damage a windshield, big time. As that rock strikes the surface, it creates ...
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Solved! Why Is My AC Unit Fan Not Spinning?
Q: Help! It’s hot in my house, and the AC unit is running, but it isn’t blowing cool air. Why is my AC unit fan not s...
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The Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters to Save Space and Cut Costs
While traditional water heaters remain the best choice for some people, a tankless unit can save space and help reduc...
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The Best Polymeric Sand for Your Next Patio Project
When it comes to beautiful hardscape projects like patios and walkways, it’s hard to beat the high-end look of pavers...
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The Best Concrete Resurfacers for Interior and Exterior Repairs
Although concrete surfaces are largely utilitarian features of a home, they can be an eyesore when they become cracke...
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The Dos and Don'ts of Using Expanding Foam Insulation Around the House
Insulating expanding foam sealant makes quick work of reducing sound transfer, stabilizing a wobbly showerhead, or ev...
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11 Easy Aesthetic Updates That Can Help Sell Your House for Top Dollar
Complete these simple aesthetic updates to ensure you don’t miss out on getting the top value for your home.
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How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Room?
Typical Range: $955 to $2,890 National Average: $1,892Painting is typically one of the easiest ways to freshen up ...
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How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to install an asphalt driveway ranges from $3,116 to $7,195, with a national average of ...
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Solved! What's Causing the Fish Smell in My House?
Q: Help! I haven’t cooked fish for several days, but my house smells like I invited the neighborhood over for a huge ...
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The Best Leather Conditioner to Revitalize Your Car’s Interior
Car shoppers are often willing to pay extra for leather interiors: they’re comfortable, great-looking, long-lasting, ...
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The Best Synthetic Oils for Your Car or Lawn Equipment
An engine will seize up within minutes of running with no motor oil, so it’s not difficult to understand how vital a ...
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The Best Glues for Leather
If you appreciate top-quality leather goods, you may have noticed that a lot of attention goes into the stitching alo...
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Schedule This Deck Waterproofing Project to Prep Your Outdoor Space for All Kinds of Weather
Enjoying the ambiance of a backyard deck on a warm evening is a summer highlight for many families. With proper maint...
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My Dryer Won’t Start—What’s the Problem, and How Do I Fix It?
Q: I have a huge load of wet clothes that I threw in the dryer, but my dryer won’t start. It worked fine just yesterd...
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Solved! What Causes Bubbling Paint—and What to Do About It
Q: I re-painted my kitchen walls a month ago with great results, but woke up today to see the paint bubbling. What co...
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Solved! How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry
Q: My bathtub sealant needs a refresh, and I’ve decided to re-caulk the tub myself. How long does caulk take to dry b...
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Solved! Why Is My Smoke Detector Beeping?
Q: This past week, one of our home’s smoke detectors has chirped a few times. We weren’t cooking at the time, and can...
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The Best Shallow Well Pumps of 2023
Though it typically sits in the crawl space under a home, out of sight and out of mind, a shallow well pump is one of...
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Grout Repair: A Step-By-Step Guide for DIYers
Over time, tile grout stains, cracks, and becomes loose. If you’re noticing that your tile grout has seen better days...
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Solved! Why Is My Dryer Squeaking?
Q: Recently I noticed my dryer squeaking every time I run it. Not only is the squeaking annoying, but I’m concerned t...
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The Best Pipe Thread Sealant
Threads are a remarkably efficient mechanical device, ideal for connecting pipework. Depending on the material, they ...
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Solved! Why Is My Dishwasher Not Getting Water?
Q: Help! I started my dishwasher and discovered that it’s not filling with water. I thought the door wasn’t completel...
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The Best Hose Clamps to Secure Pipes and Hoses
Whether working on a plumbing pipe fixture under a sink or performing automotive maintenance, connecting a hose to a ...
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Solved! Why Is My Microwave Not Heating?
Q: I’ve tried warming my leftovers and heating my tea in the microwave without success. Is my microwave not heating b...
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10 Home Maintenance Projects You Should Be Doing Every Month
Keep your home in top shape by tackling these tasks every month.
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The Best Fencing Pliers for Fence Repairs and Maintenance
Many different types of fencing are available, and various methods are used for installation and maintenance. Post an...
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The Best Expanding Foams of 2023
Expanding foam is a flexible product with a wide range of applications, including waterproofing, fireproofing, and in...
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The Best Tile Leveling Systems of 2023
Tile offers an extensive range of style and design possibilities for your walls and floors. While it may seem that ti...
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The Best Water-Leak Detectors Tested in 2023
Water leaks are incredibly common, with over 2. 5 million homeowners experiencing one yearly. Not only do water leaks...
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The Best Shoe Glues of 2023
Shoes, like many common clothing items, can range widely in price, durability, and purpose, but when you find a pair ...
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The Best Screwdriver Bit Sets for Your Cordless Drill
The cordless drill may be one of the most versatile tools in any home or shop. Recent advances in battery technology ...
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The Best Magnetic Screwdrivers for Your Toolbox
Magnetic screwdrivers create a connection between the tip of the screwdriver and the screw. This magnetic pull settle...
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The Best Lock Pick Sets for Emergencies
Though many people associate lock picks with nefarious intent, there are actually plenty of legitimate reasons for ha...
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The Best Handyman Near Me: How to Hire the Best Handyman Near Me Based on Cost, Issue, and Other Considerations
Hiring the Best Handyman Near MeMany household repairs and upgrades aren’t huge jobs, but in the business of everyday...
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How to Pick the Best Contractor After Searching ‘Contractors Near Me’
When tackling a major home improvement or renovation project, people often enlist the help of a professional contract...
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The Best Rust Converters of 2023
Everything degrades over time; metal objects are usually the victims of rust. Fortunately, there are several ways to ...
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Solved! This Is How to Fix a Furnace That’s Not Turning On
Q: We recently moved into our home and now that it’s getting cold, we’ve noticed that the furnace isn’t turning on. W...
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The Best Laminate Underlayments of 2023
Laminate must be installed correctly on top of a quality underlayment, which is key to providing adequate support for...
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15 Things Your Home Repair Emergency Fund Should Be Able to Cover
Perhaps the least fun part of home ownership is facing unexpected repairs and expenses. Make sure you have the funds set aside to cover these common home fixes.
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The Best Bike Repair Stands
A bike repair stand makes it easy to maintain and repair a bike at home. By design, the bike stand keeps the bike ste...
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The Best Window Well Covers for Below-Grade Windows
Window well covers prevent rain and snow from collecting in window wells, which can cause water to pool against your ...
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The Best Tile Cutters for Your Retiling Project
Retiling is one of those home projects that can make a significant impact relatively quickly. Whether laying a new ce...
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The Best Glues for Glass
Just because a windshield, a favorite figurine, or a smartphone screen is damaged, you don’t have to replace it. Inst...
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The Best Glass Cutters for Your Projects
Whether you’re trying your hand at stained glass crafts or a pro glazier, you need the right tools for the job. And o...
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The Best Concrete Bonding Agents for Your Project
A lot goes into tackling a concrete repair or project. Unlike a carpentry project, you can’t just grab a stack of lum...
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The Best Chalk Lines for Project Planning
Every amateur renovator knows straight lines are grueling to draw. Thankfully, with the simple addition of a chalk li...
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The Best Asphalt Driveway Crack Fillers of 2023
A cracked driveway can be unsightly, plus it can lead to more extensive damage if left untreated. Cracks allow moistu...
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The Best Stainable Wood Fillers
Over time, every home’s furniture, walls, and baseboards get nicks and cracks. But, wood fillers help hide the appear...
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The Best Adjustable Wrenches for Your Repair Needs
There are a few classic tools that everyone needs, whether you are a DIYer or a professional repair technician. One o...
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The Best Construction Adhesives
Construction adhesives provide an efficient and effective way to glue up projects ranging from DIY crafts to homebuil...
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Testing the 9 Best Exterior Caulks of 2023
Exterior caulk is a thick, viscous solution that comes in a long tube and is applied with a caulking gun and is an ea...
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The Best Double-Sided Tapes of 2023
Move over, duct tape, there’s another tape that has nearly as many uses. Double-sided tape can be used to adhere any ...
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The Best Thermal Cameras to Identify Issues and Avoid Drilling Holes
Thermal cameras can help detect potential issues in your home, such as a termite nest in the wall or a leak from a pi...
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The Best Garage Door Insulation Kits Tested in 2023
Nowadays, the idea of converting the garage into a second living space or personal sanctuary (i. e. , guest bedroom, ...
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The Best Paints for Plastic
Nothing beats a fresh coat of paint in an attractive, new color to revive those dingy, faded, plastic objects around ...
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The Best Fabric Glues
Sewing is a skill that takes time, patience, and dedication to master. When you're in a pinch and a thread and needle...
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The Best Silicone Sprays of 2023
Silicone spray is typically seen as a lubricant for noisy door hinges. But users can also use silicone spray on car h...
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The Best Glues to Repair Your Most Treasured Ceramics, Tested
Breaking a ceramic household item is frustrating, but most can be repaired—so long as you have all the pieces and a h...
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The 7 Best Roof Sealants for Lasting Repairs, Tested
Roofs are designed to withstand an impressive onslaught of extreme weather, but daily exposure to sun, rain, hail, or...
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The Best Tile Saws Tested in 2023
Achieving professional results from a tile project starts with thoughtful consideration—not only regarding tile selec...
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The Best Sergers of 2023
The best sergers machines offer a few key advantages over conventional sewing machines. They create stronger, more du...
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The Best Paver Sealers
The best paver sealers help lock stones in place, limit erosion inside joints, repel stains, and keep the pavers look...
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20 Cheap Home Repairs That Could Save You Thousands
If your house could talk, it would tell you that spending a little money now on small repairs could save you big bucks down the road. We’ve put together 20 of the...
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The Best Toilet Flapper Replacements for Running Toilets
That hissing noise coming from your toilet every few minutes may be the telltale sound of a bad toilet flapper. It’s ...
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The Best Tire Inflators for Vehicle Maintenance, Tested
Most drivers have looked down at their dashboard and noticed a warning light indicating a tire with low pressure. If ...
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The Most Common Concrete Problems—And How To Fix Them
Concrete provides a sound structural foundation for homes and is ideal for slabs like patios, walkways and, driveways...
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The Best Drywall Tapes
Achieving a smooth, flat finish on interior walls that lasts can be tricky. The joints between drywall panels must be...
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The Best Sump Pumps for Crawl Spaces and Basements
A good sump pump is invaluable in times of flooding or to prevent mildew. Sump pumps reside in a pit below the baseme...
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The Best Toilet Flush Valves
A toilet flush valve—one of the two major components in the toilet tank—consists of an overflow tube, a toilet flappe...
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The 9 Best Water Heaters of 2023
It used to be that there weren’t many options when it came to purchasing a residential water heater. The only two cho...
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How To: Replace a Toilet Shut-Off Valve
That inconspicuous toilet shut-off valve doesn’t see much action. In fact, that valve may sit for years without ever ...
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The Best Leather Repair Kits of 2023
When your leather furniture gets damaged, instead of replacing it, you would probably prefer to repair it. You could ...
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The Best Glues for Plastic
One formula definitely does not fit all when it comes to glues for your DIY projects. Adhesives are chemically design...
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The Best Toilet Fill Valves
Toilet fill valves last about 5 years and sometimes longer depending on the quality of the valve, how often the toile...
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10 Bad Habits That Every DIYer Needs to Break
Avoid safety hazards and subpar results by improving your approach to home improvement with these tips.
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The Best Grout Removal Tools for DIY Renovations
Taking on a home improvement project is exciting, but removing grout—the dense material that fills gaps and seals joi...
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The Roofing Tools That Are Most Important for Repairs
Homeowners rarely step foot on their own roofs. When roofing issues come up, most homeowners just hire out the job to...
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5 Things to Know Before You Replace a Garage Door Spring
A garage door spring is one of those household items you probably never think about. Until it’s broken, that is, and ...
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How to Replace a Sprinkler Head on an In-Ground Sprinkler System
A working sprinkler head can be key to maintaining a healthy and well-watered landscape. Your lush lawn demands regul...
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The High Cost of a Small Leak—and How to Prevent It
“Don’t go looking for trouble” is an adage most homeowners can relate to, particularly when it comes to plumbing. Aft...
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5 Signs It's Time to Replace a Subfloor
It’s difficult to know everything that goes on below your flooring. Underneath the hardwood, laminate, tile, or carpe...
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How to Turn Off the Gas to Your House
If you have a natural gas line running into your home, you need to know the location of your gas shut-off valves. A g...
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3 Ways to Cut PVC Pipe
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe is a type of plastic tubing commonly used for drains. These are the white pipes with pu...
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The 10 Best Screwdriver Sets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Basic as they are, screwdrivers are not a one-size-fits-all tool, nor does one type of screwdriver fit all situations...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Caulking the Bathroom
If you live in an older home or plan to stay in your house for longer than five years, it’s likely that you will end ...
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6 Things to Know Before Cutting Metal
Around the home, you won’t frequently run into situations that require you to cut metal, but there are a few DIY proj...
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How to Remove a Broken Bolt
In theory, metal bolts—headed fasteners with external threads that fit into suitable non-tapered nuts—can be removed ...
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Buying a Fixer Upper? Be Ready for These 9 Costs
Beware the common but not always obvious costs of buying a house in less-than-mint condition.
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The Best Wood Fillers for DIY Fixes to Wooden Surfaces, Tested
Cracks, divots, holes, or rot can crop up on wooden surfaces due to ordinary wear and tear and accidents, or during D...
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8 Ways You Can Help Your Contractor Hit the Project Deadline
Renovating and remodeling projects are exciting but they can also be frustrating if work drags on and the contractor runs past the projected deadline. While some ...
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The Best Duct Tapes
If you’ve heard the expression “like water off a duck’s back,” you may be surprised to learn that it was the original...
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The Best Super Glues Tested in 2023
A handy tube of super glue can quickly turn complicated home repairs into quick fixes—if you have the right product. ...
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11 Easy DIY Fixes for Annoying House Problems 
Don't procrastinate any longer. The annoying house problems you live with are easier to fix than you realize. After you cross these repairs off your to-do list yo...
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Solved! What Causes Low Water Pressure—and How to Fix It
Q: I have always had good water pressure throughout my home, but recently I noticed that the water pressure has dropp...
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10 Popular Home Upgrades That Can Cost Less Than You Think
Homeowners hoping to spruce up their interiors, make exterior repairs, or embark upon a long-desired home addition may find themselves daunted and dismayed by the...
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These Impressive Before-and-After Photos Will Make You Want to Buy a Fixer-Upper
Seeking inspiration for your next reno project? Spark your creativity with this collection of dramatic photos and useful tips from experienced homeowners and DIY ...
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Solved! How to Fix Leaking Rain Gutters
Q: Lately, whenever it rains, water drips out of my house’s gutters and onto the patio, instead of out the downspout....
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5 Things to Know About Replacing a Garbage Disposal
Uh oh! You turn on the tap, flick the switch, and after a groan your garbage disposal goes silent, leaving you with a...
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Solved! What to Do About Frost in Your Freezer
Q: For the past several months, I've found frost in the freezer compartment of my six-year-old refrigerator. Even aft...
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10 Projects to Do If You Plan to Sell Your Home This Year
Make these improvements before you put your home on the market to wow buyers and maximize your sales price.
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5 Smart Tips for Soundproofing Windows
Whether it’s highway traffic, loud neighbors, or birds chirping, if you don’t have sound proof windows, some noise fr...
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What No One Tells You About Buying an Older Home
If you dream of owning a home that looks like it was taken straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, you’re not alone. Older homes appeal to a wide range of buy...
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5 Reasons Your Dishwasher Is Leaking (and How to Repair It)
It's hard to imagine entertaining a houseful of guests or even just dealing with a family’s worth of dirty dishes eve...
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15 Home Improvements That Can't Wait Until Spring
It may be easier to take on home maintenance projects when the weather is sunny and warm, but you can still get plenty of things done during the winter when you’r...
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How To: Find a Plumbing Leak
Our homes rely on water—as long as its safely contained in a pipe, sink, tub, or appropriate appliance, like a dishwa...
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Solved! 4 Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Isn’t Drying
Q: Lately, whenever I unload my dishwasher, everything is still wet, and I end up with water on the floor and on my c...
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Solved! What is Water Hammer, and How Can I Fix It? 
Q: When the water reaches the fill level in my washing machine and the agitation cycle starts, I always hear a loud s...
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10 Parts of the Home You Can (and Should) Renovate in Winter
Don't let winter weather derail your remodeling plans. Being holed up inside is actually the perfect excuse for taking on certain home improvement projects.
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5 Ways to Fix Stairs That Squeak
When you’re dead asleep and someone in your family sneaks downstairs for a late-night snack, the loud groan of a stai...
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Solved! Why Your Fireplace Might Be Smoking Up the House
Q: I was alarmed to see smoke enter the living room when I last used my fireplace. Why was my fireplace smoking, and ...
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Solved! What to Do About a Broken Window Seal
Q: Until last week, I could look out my kitchen window to watch the songbirds at my backyard feeder. But something mu...
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How To: Find a Roof Leak
The hardest part of fixing a roof leak? A lot of times, it's simply locating the problem. Sure, it's easy enough to s...
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Solved! How to Fix and Prevent Wallpaper Peeling
Q: We’ve bought our dream fixer-upper and are slowly DIY-ing our way through each room. One of the bedrooms has some ...
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How to Remove Water Stains From Wood
Wood furniture is beautiful, but it’s not impervious to the wear and tear of everyday life. To retain their looks, ne...
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Solved! How to Fix a Leaking Water Heater and Prevent Future Woes
Q: Help! My hot water heater is leaking.  After mopping up, I see more water starting to puddle but I can’t tell wher...
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Here’s Exactly What You Can Expect to Pay a Handyman
When you own a home, it seems as if there's always something that needs to be repaired or replaced. While you may hav...
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14 House Problems That Don't Require a General Contractor
As most homeowners are well aware, problems can strike a house suddenly and without warning: a leaky roof or a fallen tree, a burst pipe in the basement or a boil...
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How to Use Wood Filler to Repair Furniture, Flooring, and More
Badly scratched hardwood flooring, rotted window frames, and chipped furniture are common problems that can be time-c...
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The 6 Best Things You Can Do for Your Plumbing
If you take these steps to safeguard your plumbing system now, you could reduce the risk of future plumbing problems and even increase the useful life of some of ...
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Can Your Deck Last Another Season?
A well-built deck increases your living and entertaining space and boosts your home's value, with a nice 70 percent c...
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Solved! What to Do About Yellowing Paintwork
Q: The white oil-based paint coat on my office cabinet has yellowed in recent months. Is it possible to reverse the y...
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10 Ways to Know Whether You Should Repair a Foundation Crack
Your home’s foundation—the concrete walls surrounding a basement or crawl space—supports the entire weight of the hou...
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4 Tips for Repairing a Leaky Roof
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for homes today, accounting for nearly 70 percent of domestic ...
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These 11 Repairs Aren't Worth Your Time or Money
There are a lot of decisions to make when you put your home on the market, and one of the biggest is your asking price. While you can’t change the number one fact...
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Replace Dated Popcorn Ceilings with This New Texture
They are cheap and easy to install, and they camouflage a host of flaws, but popcorn ceilings are also dated and tend...
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Garden Hose Repair: 4 Fast (and Frugal) Fixes
When intact, your garden hose is a trusty tool for hydrating your lawn, rinsing debris from your deck, and just about...
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These Are the Most Common Appliance Repairs
Household appliances help keep your life running smoothly. When they break down unexpectedly, routines—and budgets—get thrown off. That's why it's so important to...
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Why Is My Dryer Not Heating? Solved!
Are you stumped by the fact that your dryer seems to take forever these days? If your clothes dryer needs more time t...
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Repairing a Driveway? The Right Solution for Every Surface
Your driveway is the first thing passersby and visitors see, and it’s a vital element in your home’s curb appeal. If ...
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What’s Causing That Burning Smell Coming from the Dryer? Solved!
Q: The last time I used my dryer I detected a distinct burning odor. I didn’t see any smoke but definitely smelled so...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Kitchen Sink Is Clogged
Q: Last night my kitchen sink clogged up while I was in the middle of a load of dirty dishes. By morning, the sink ha...
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Joint Compound vs. Spackle: What’s the Difference?
Half of the battle with common home repairs is picking the correct product to use. And when two products have some ov...
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5 Ways to Prevent Cracks in Concrete—and 1 Easy Fix
Even if it's your first concrete project, you can ensure a long-lasting, professional finish by steering clear of a few pitfalls and, if necessary, using the righ...
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Solved! When to Worry About Refrigerator Noises
Q: My refrigerator has been making strange noises lately. Should I have a pro check it out?A: It’s understandable to ...
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6 Smart Ways to Prevent a Soggy Yard with Every Rain Shower
Ward off water woes in your front, back, or side yard with a few improvements to your landscaping.</p> The following article is paid advertising created in p...
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Solved! What It Means When Your Toilet Hisses
Q: How’s this for a peculiar plumbing problem: After every flush, our toilet hisses, just like a loud snake. It start...
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Diagnose Any Garage Door Problem Yourself in Just 9 Steps
A garage door opener is a complicated creature.  In fact, despite its name, your garage door opener is actually a ser...
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Solved! Why Your Oven Isn’t Heating Properly—and How to Fix It
Q: Something is wrong with my oven. The last time I used it, the food didn’t cook properly—the center of my casserole...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Dishwasher Isn't Cleaning
Q: My dishwasher is only two years old, and until recently, it’s done a great job. For the past month or so, it’s bee...
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Solved! How to Repair Popped Nails
Q: I just bought a house and am planning to paint over its existing green interior walls with a fresh coat of country...
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The Dos and Don'ts of Caulking Windows
Caulking windows—to give them a finished look (inside and out) and seal out leaks and drafts—is a fairly common DIY t...
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How To: Remove Texture from Walls
Texturing walls is a time-honored method of adding character to a wall or covering such imperfections as drywall tapi...
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The Cheapest, Fastest Fixes for 10 Everyday Home Headaches
When it comes to basic home improvement projects, the key concerns for many homeowners are time and budget. Well, here are 10 simple repairs that keep both effort...
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Homeowners, Beware: This Hidden Problem Could Cause Your House to Crumble
In nature, wood rot is a vital decomposition process, turning fallen logs into nutritious soil. But few things send h...
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9 Tips for Removing Scratches from Wood Floors
Wood floors bring beauty and value to a home—as long as they are well-maintained. Natural wood is at constant risk of...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Garage Door Won’t Open
Q: When I returned from work today, I pushed the button on my remote garage door opener but the door didn’t budge. Ev...
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How to Light a Pilot Light on Gas Appliances
You woke up shivering in a cold house. Your morning shower, usually a warm and pleasant revitalization, was spent fut...
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Why Is My Circuit Breaker Tripping? 4 Potential Problems and Solutions
Q: Every few hours—sometimes minutes!—my living room and one side of my kitchen lose electrical power. I’ll check the...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Waterproofing Basement Walls
Because they’re built below grade, basements tend to take on water. You may notice moist basement walls from time to ...
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Cool Tools: The All-in-1 Fix for Just About Any Hole in the Wall
What do you do when you find yourself staring at a hole in a wall caused by a furniture ding, a too-eagerly opened do...
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How to Turn Off Water to Your House
Chances are, there will come a time when you’ll have to turn off the water supply to your home: You may need to do so...
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How to Level a Floor: What to Know Before You DIY
Successfully installing new finished flooring typically requires knowing how to level a floor. Common in older houses...
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How to Fix a Crack in Glass
A pebble from the lawnmower that flies against a window. A drink set down too heavily on your glass-topped coffee tab...
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Solved! How to Prevent Doors from Slamming
Q: A door in my home tends to slam shut—even occasionally when no one is using it! What causes this and how can I pre...
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Solved! What to Do About Cracks in a Concrete Driveway
Q: We just bought a new house and we love it, but the driveway has a few cracks and I’d really like to fix them. Is r...
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How To: Balance a Wobbly Ceiling Fan
Even in the age of central air, ceiling fans still have their lofty place. The welcome breeze they provide evaporates...
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5 Plumbing Repairs Every Homeowner Should Know
While the pleasures of homeownership are great, there will invariably be repairs along the way, especially when it co...
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Solved! How to Fix a Slow Sink Drain
Q: My bathroom sink isn’t draining very well, and it’s driving me crazy. While the water does eventually drain out, i...
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8 One-Hour Projects That Can Make Your Home Look New Again
With today's busy schedules, it can be tough to find the time to take on lengthy home improvement projects. But you don’t have to dedicate your entire summer vaca...
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How To: Tighten a Toilet Seat
From the pressure of people sitting to the constant opening and closing of the lid and/or seat, your toilets probably...
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7 Easy Ways to Make Your Next DIY Project Less Messy
Let’s face it: Some projects can be downright messy. In fact, you've probably scrubbed up after a few particularly dirty ones yourself! But if you’re spending as ...
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Solved! How Concerned You Should Be About Cracks in the Walls
Q: I recently noticed a few cracks in our living room wall. I’m not sure if they've been there for a while and I just...
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How To: Drain a Washing Machine
A hardworking washing machine may stop draining mid-cycle for a number of reasons, such as a kink in the drain hose, ...
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Solved! Why Is My Refrigerator Leaking Water?
Q: There’s a small puddle on my kitchen floor that seems to be coming from my refrigerator. Why is my refrigerator le...
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The 8 Most Common Reasons for an Electrical Outlet Not Working (and When to Call a Pro)
Q: When I plugged my cell phone charger into a kitchen outlet, my phone didn’t start charging as it normally does—rat...
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How To: Remove Scratches from Plastic
Any plastic—windows, headlights, patio furniture, and more—is susceptible to scratches as a result of normal wear and...
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How To: Fix a Hole in a Door
Hollow core doors—consisting of a lightweight wood frame covered with composite veneer—are affordable (around $50 per...
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How To: Connect PEX to Copper or PVC
Today, with the help of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe, plumbing work has become more efficient for professiona...
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Solved! What Cracks in the Basement Floor Really Mean
Q: We moved into a new house and I just noticed some cracks in the basement floor. They don’t look new, but I can’t b...
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How To: Patch an Air Mattress
Though invaluable for slumber parties, camping trips, and out-of-town visitors, an air mattress can be rendered usele...
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How To: Remove Epoxy
Epoxy is a heavy-duty bonding adhesive that comes in handy in many different repair projects, from fixing wobbly furn...
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Solved! Why Is My Toilet Bubbling, and How Can I Fix It?
Q: Sometimes, my toilet makes a gurgling noise for no apparent reason—not when I flush it, but rather at random inter...
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DIY Toilet Repair: 5 Common Commode Problems and How to Fix Them
If there's one household fixture we really rely on and hate to have to fix, it's the toilet. But while these fixtures...
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Here's What to Do When Your Snow Blower Won't Start
Q: After the first snow of the season, I took the snow blower out of the shed but it wouldn’t start. It ran fine the ...
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How To: Caulk Baseboards
Prepping to paint your walls a new shade? While you may understand how essential priming is when it comes to hiding t...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Oven Is Smoking
Q: Over the last few days, my oven has been giving off smoke while in use but is working normally otherwise. Why is i...
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Solved! What to Do About a Leaking Garbage Disposal
Q: Lately, the cabinet under my kitchen sink has been getting mysteriously soggy. Could this be a symptom of a leakin...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Dishwasher Is Not Draining
Q: I just opened the dishwasher door to find the bottom of the unit filled with dingy water. My first thought was tha...
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How to Keep Pipes From Freezing and Bursting
When severe winter weather threatens your home, one of the most important preventative measures you need to familiari...
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7 Ways You May Be Ruining All Your Furniture
We all know the feeling. You spend time, money, and energy choosing just the right sofa. And then—what’s that spot?! Here are seven surprising ways you may be dam...
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All You Need to Know About Tuckpointing
Bricks provide durable cladding for interior and exterior walls, chimneys, and fireplaces. But the mortar used to fil...
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How To: Remove Rusted Screws
If you’re repairing old things, you’re bound to run into rusted screws. As long as you keep the right tools and suppl...
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Solved! What to Do If a Tree Falls on Your House
Q: A big thunderstorm just came through our area and a tree fell on our house. My wife and I are kind of panicking be...
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Solved! What 12 Different Electrical Wire Colors Actually Mean
Q: I’m replacing the heating element in my electric water heater. The wires running to the element are black and whit...
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How To: Unshrink Clothes
Have you ever reached for a favorite sweater or pair of jeans only to find that its last spin in the hot dryer caused...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Refrigerator Is Not Cooling
Q: I’m worried that my refrigerator is not cooling. I just pulled out a can of soda that’s barely cold, and I noticed...
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Solved! What to Do About Woodpecker Damage
Q: Woodpeckers recently swooped in on my property and did a number on my cedar tree, siding, and roof. How do I plug ...
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Solved! What Cracks in the Ceiling Really Mean
Q: I just noticed a crack in my ceiling, but I’m not sure how long it’s been there. Is it a normal symptom of an agin...
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Cool Tools: An Easier Way to Repair and Finish Drywall
Drywall taping has always been a notoriously messy, imprecise undertaking. In the past, no matter the size of the job...
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How to Fix a Stuck Zipper
The zipper keeps everything from jeans and jackets to duffel bags and lunch boxes closed tight. Still, for all its si...
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How to Change a Shower Head in Under an Hour
If the only obstacle standing in your way of replacing an old and corroded shower head is knowing how to replace a sh...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Lawn Mower Starts Smoking
Q: Recently, my mower started billowing smoke when I powered it up, so I shut it off immediately. Why is my lawn mowe...
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Solved! What to Do if Your Air Conditioner Is Not Cooling Your Space
Q: I’ve just turned on the air conditioner for the summer, but I just can't get get comfortable. The appliance circul...
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5 Simple Fixes for Worn Concrete
Concrete is one of the most durable construction materials around, but faulty installation, everyday wear and tear, e...
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Renew a Wood Fence in Just 3 Steps
Do you have a flaking eyesore of a fence that plagues the perimeter of your property? While there are no shortcuts to...
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How to Replace a Toilet Flange
If you’ve got a pool of water around the base of your toilet, you may need to do a toilet flange replacement of a loo...
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Wood Filler: Your Secret Weapon for Fast and Easy Furniture Fixes
In the above photo, you're seeing what used to be a playroom for my two daughters. For years, the space contained the...
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9 Sneaky Ways to Get New Floors for Under $50
Some people hate their floors and long for a new look. Others love theirs but can't abide their minor imperfections: a scratch, dent, or loose tile. Whatever your...
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How To: Sharpen a Pocket Knife
The handiest people advocate keeping a pocket knife within reach (if not actually in a pocket) at all times. Its fold...
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The Right Way to Fill Nail Holes
If you’re reluctant to rearrange the pictures on your walls because you dread dealing with the nail holes left behind...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Toilet Starts Overflowing
Q: Help! Just as I was leaving the bathroom, I heard the unmistakable, undesirable sound of water hitting the floor. ...
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How To: Dye Carpet
Carpet is a costly investment that should last at least 10 years, but discoloration—thanks to spills, pet mishaps, an...
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Get Your Fix: 20 Easy DIY Repairs for Every Part of Your Home
Clogs, squeaks, leaks, and other minor disasters strike even the most well-maintained homes. But you don’t necessarily need a professional handyman to cure what a...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Clothes Washer Won't Spin
Q: I went to transfer a load of laundry from the washer to the dryer, and the clothes were sopping wet! Why won't my ...
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How To: Fix a Squeaky Floor
No matter how quietly you traipse through your home late at night, a squeaky floor will always trip you up and announ...
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How to Rekey a Lock
Key rings can get crowded (and heavy!) fast, when you consider all that you load up on them: keys for your car, front...
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Solved! What to Do About a Leaking Shower Head
Q: Lately, when I take a shower, more water drips and runs out from behind the shower head faceplate than comes out t...
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10 Emergencies Every Homeowner Should Know How to Handle
It’s a law of nature and of home-owning: whatever can go wrong, eventually will. With a bit of preparedness and forethought, though, damage from household mishaps...
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Solved! This Is What to Do When Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working
Q. After dinner, I rinsed off the dishes in the sink like I always do, and flipped the switch for the garbage disposa...
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How To: Remove Drywall Anchors
Drywall anchors certainly come in handy when you want to safely hang something heavy on a hollow wall or a spot witho...
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Solved! What to Do When There’s No Hot Water
Q: Even though my shower was perfectly toasty when I hopped in, it quickly chilled until there was no hot water left ...
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How to Remove Scratches From Stainless Steel
From sinks and appliances to counters and cabinet hardware, stainless steel remains popular in home kitchens, favored...
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Solved! What to Do About a Flooded Basement
Q. Help! I went to the basement to do some laundry but found water on the floor instead! How do I rescue my flooded b...
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All You Need to Know About Roof Inspections
Your home’s roof is its first line of defense against storms and extreme weather, be it a foot or more of snow droppi...
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5 Fixes for a Stuck Key
It’s been one of those days. You caught every red light on your way home from work, your laundry wasn’t ready at the ...
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Your Top 10 Bathroom Dilemmas—Solved
From a casual analysis of popular search terms, we can draw a few conclusions about people's feelings toward their bathrooms: They’re too small, there’s too much ...
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Your Guide to Reviving a Tired Garage Floor
As one of the strongest, most durable, and longest-lasting construction materials, it's no wonder why concrete is the...
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How to Unclog a Bathtub
Nothing interferes with a refreshing shower like a slow-draining bathtub. And that inch or two of water that sneaks u...
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How to Splice Wires for Home Electrical Projects
If your around-the-house to-do list includes an ambitious DIY electrical project, be it installing a light fixture, r...
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How To: Maintain Stucco
Over the course of millennia, builders have used everything from animal horns to whiskey in the making of stucco—an a...
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Solved! What to Do About a Leaky Roof
Q: Help! I woke up after last night’s storm to find a discoloration on the kitchen ceiling and a puddle underneath. W...
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10 Times Doing It Yourself Doesn’t Save You Money
The do-it-yourself ethos is one we heartily applaud. Most services provided by home maintenance pros aren't cheap, so taking care of small fixes on your own can s...
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Solved! What to Do When the Toilet Won’t Flush
Q: Help! My toilet won’t flush. The handle moves freely, but nothing happens when I press down. Can I fix it without ...
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How To: Remove Rivets
Plenty of DIYers find themselves eager to start a project only to come to a full stop when confronting rivets. The fa...
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How To: Repair Concrete Steps
For construction professionals and homeowners alike, concrete offers many appealing qualities, but there may be none ...
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How to Stretch Carpet
Carpet feels great underfoot as long as it is properly cleaned, cared for, and maintained while it is in the home. It...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water
Q: My central air conditioning system is leaking water. Any way I can DIY the repair and avoid an expensive repair bi...
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How To: Spackle a Wall
Maybe there was a mishap while moving a major appliance. Or perhaps someone hung some pictures the old-fashioned way ...
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Solved! What to Do About Spalling Concrete
Q: Parts of my concrete driveway are flaky, cracked, and pitted. How do I halt the deterioration and return the surfa...
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How To: Remove and Replace a Doorknob
We think of a doorknob as ubiquitous and mundane, yet a closer inspection can sometimes prove puzzling, leaving you t...
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6 Low-Cost Lifesavers to Make Wall Repair a Cinch
Walls take a beating. Overzealous furniture movers, rowdy kids, and constant doorknob bangs can leave dents, cracks, and holes that mar your walls' once-smooth su...
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How To: Plane a Door
It’s easy to take doors for granted. Until they start sticking or binding, that is—or you install a new floor and sud...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Freezer Isn’t Freezing
Q: I’ve noticed that my freezer isn’t working as well as it used to. Is there any possibility of a quick fix instead ...
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Dos and Don’ts of Repairing Drywall
Drywall is tough, but it’s not indestructible. Over time, gypsum-board walls can sustain ugly cracks or holes. Fortun...
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How To: Strip Wire
Whether you’re rewiring an old lamp, installing a new doorbell, or adding another outlet to a wall, the first step to...
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10 DIY Fixes That Do More Harm Than Good
Common knowledge, neighborly advice, old wives’ tales, and “the way my parents did it” all share one important characteristic: Sometimes they're just plain wrong....
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Solved! What to Do About a Leaking Toilet Tank
Q: Help! My toilet is leaking all over the bathroom floor, and I haven’t yet located the source. How can I find and f...
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3 Fixes for a Garage Door That Won't Close
Garage doors sometimes seem to have a mind of their own, often deciding when—and how far—they want to open or close. ...
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How to Remove a Tub Drain
We don’t give tub drains much thought until they give us trouble. Over time, tub drains clog and sometimes even corro...
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3 Fixes for Cracked Concrete
Despite its reputation as one of the most rugged building materials ever conceived, even concrete has a sensitive sid...
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Solved! What to Do When Your Pilot Light Goes Out
Q: I jumped in my shower this morning and, holy cow, was it cold! After a quick inspection, I discovered my water hea...
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Sofa, So Good: 10 Creative Ways to Revive a Tired Old Couch
It’s not surprising that the couch is the focal point of most living rooms. It’s often one of the largest pieces of furniture, and family and friends alike make a...
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21 Brilliant Hacks for Everyday Home Repairs
From clearing clogged drains to filling nail holes, maintaining your home can seem like a MacGyver-esque challenge—but it doesn't have to be this way. Make light ...
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How to Remove Scratches From Glass: DIY Hacks That Work
A tiny scratch can mar a beautiful glass tabletop or, if it’s in a glass panel on your front door, set the wrong tone...
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Solved! How to Fix Flickering Lights in Your Home
Q: Help! We have multiple lights flickering in our house. As far as I know my house isn’t haunted, but I can’t help w...
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How To: Sand Drywall
Drywall—commonly known as sheet rock—is one of the most popular construction materials used in finishing interior wal...
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12 Things You Didn't Know Duct Tape Can Do
Duct tape is an extremely durable and versatile product that can be used to mend, patch, hem, and more. Here are 12 ways that you can put a roll of this ubiquitou...
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How to Use a Plunger the Right Way
If your toilet’s clogged or your sink is stopped up, it’s time to take the plunge! Nine times out of 10, a clog can b...
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What to Do When Your Doorbell Stops Working
Ding, dong! Your guests have arrived for dinner and drinks. But if your doorbell stops working, you could leave your ...
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Bob Vila Radio: Replacing a Shower Diverter
You know that little knob on top of the bathtub spout? It's tiny but not insignificant, as it performs the vital role...
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16 Improvements Most Homeowners Get Wrong
Don't do what these homeowners did! Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and design disasters before you begin your next DIY renovation.
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10 Things You Didn't Know Super Glue Can Do
Everyone has reached for the Krazy Glue at least once when fixing a broken object. Its sheer versatility makes this accidental invention one of the most ubiquitou...
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9 Home Repair Remedies to Borrow from Your Medicine Cabinet
Maybe you’re a new homeowner, still unsure about what tools and supplies you need to own. Perhaps you've just downsized to a tiny house or apartment, and you’re l...
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7 Signs Your House Needs New Siding
It's a cruel fact: Those factors that make home exterior siding so crucial are the same ones that undermine its performance over the long term. In other words, in...
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3 Fixes for a Hole in the Wall
While drywall is highly durable, it’s not indestructible.  Over the years, interior walls take a beating, speckled wi...
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10 Fast Fixes for Annoying House Noises
A house full of creaks, squeaks, buzzing, and bumps can keep you up at night and make you crazy all day. Check this list of quick fixes that will restore peace an...
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Bob Vila Radio: Use a Hairdryer to Fix Torn Vinyl Flooring
If your vinyl flooring (or linoleum) has developed a tear, don't despair! There's an easy—and yes, rather unexpected ...
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Bob Vila Radio: Why Is the Tap Water Brown?
Does the water coming out of your faucet look a bit like the Mississippi River after a rainstorm? There are at least ...
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So, You Want to... Level a Concrete Floor
There's no disagreement here: Concrete ranks among the most durable, longest-lasting of all building materials. That ...
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Give Your Worn-Out Concrete a Brand-New Look
Other than wood, concrete may be the most favored residential building material in the country, because builders and ...
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Bob Vila Radio: Plugging Leaks in Concrete or Masonry
A special type of cement, similar to mortar and easy to use, hydraulic cement is handy for preventing water from seep...
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Bob Vila Radio: Raising Sunken Pavers
If a few of the pavers in your patio or driveway have begun to sag, don't fret—there’s an easy, DIY-friendly fix. Her...
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Bob Vila Radio: Replace a Worn-Out Window Screen
Replacing a screen on a wooden window frame? It's a straightforward job. To get it done right, and with a minimum of ...
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How To: Remove Caulk
Though caulk often lasts for years, it doesn't stick around forever. If yours has become discolored, has developed cr...
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How To: Patch Carpet
Carpeting inevitably undergoes wear and tear, whether from foot traffic or the accidents of everyday life. If those f...
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9 Amazing Things You Can Do with Sugru
Do you Sugru? If you have not yet experimented with this endlessly versatile product, you may be missing out on one of the most useful and fun-to-use tools now av...
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10 Quick Fixes for a More Refreshing Shower
Nothing kills the mood of a refreshing bath after a long day (or for that matter, an energizing shower to start one) faster than the sight of mold. Or a delay in ...
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Noisy Radiator? Here's How to Shush It
There's a simple reason why builders relied on steam radiators for decades and decades—they work! But every technolog...
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How to Remove Vinyl Flooring
Let's be clear: It's no fun to remove vinyl flooring. Peeling up the material itself is no picnic, but the real trial...
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How to Fix Cracks in Concrete
Small cracks in your concrete driveway, patio, or foundation may not seem like much to worry about, and you may be te...
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10 DIY Yard Drainage Solutions to Protect Your Home’s Foundation
If you see standing water on your property after a hard rainfall, it's probably time to take steps to mitigate the pr...
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What Would Bob Do? Repairing a Door That Sticks
In my house, several of our wood doors keep sticking. I've tried candle wax and have made sure all the screws in the ...
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How to Plunge a Toilet
People go weeks, months, and even years without giving the toilet a second thought. The instant it clogs, however, th...
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How To: Patch Drywall
Sooner or later, most of us need to patch drywall, whether for purely cosmetic reasons—filling nail holes, for exampl...
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What Would Bob Do? Filling Nail Holes
Q: I’ve removed some carpet and want to refinish the hardwood floors below. What should I use to fill the holes left ...
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How to Recover a Chair
It’s only a matter of time: Sooner or later, your chairs with upholstered seats become worn, dirty, or dated. When yo...
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What Would Bob Do? Unsticking a Double-Hung Window
Q: My wife and I recently moved into a rental house, and we cannot seem to open the double-hung windows in the bedroo...
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How to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling
From the 1950s through the ’80s, the ceilings in many new homes were finished with a rough, stippled texture that bec...
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Repair Drywall with Less Hassle
Let’s be honest. Drywall repair is not something most people look forward to. Although it’s relatively straightforwar...
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What Would Bob Do? Repairing Cracked Stucco
Q: My house is 55 years old and still has the original stucco. On one exterior wall, there's a fine crack with paint ...
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Bob Vila Radio: Fixing Chipped Stove Enamel
There’s something so crisp and clean about a kitchen with a traditional, white porcelain enamel stove. But sometimes ...
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What Would Bob Do? Dealing with Bulging Drywall Seams
Q: Many of the drywall seams on my 40-year-old house are bulging. It doesn't appear as if the joint tape is pulling a...
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What Would Bob Do? Fixing Scratches on Wood Floors
Q: I have various scratches on my wood floors. Some add character, but some are just too big and need to go away. Wha...
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How to Fix Christmas Lights: Troubleshooting, Repair, and Maintenance
 If avoiding frustration and preserving your holiday spirit are at the top of the wish list this holiday season, lear...
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How To: Paint Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding first became popular in the wake of World War II, when this metal, which had been so crucial to the w...
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How To: Re-Glaze a Single-Pane Window
 Here's how to re-glaze those old, broken window panes. First, remove the old glazing compound with a propane torch a...
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What Would Bob Do? Cutting Drywall
I've got to remove some drywall in a room so I can nail studs behind the wall for anchoring purposes. What is the bes...
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Quick Tip: Sawdust Grout
 It can be easy to patch cracks in an old wood floor or grout a new wood block floor. Here's how. First, make a mixtu...
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The Complete Illustrated Guide to Unclogging a Drain
Stop—don't panic! You, too, can unclog that drain with these easy steps for banishing the backed-up sink and toilet.
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How To: Replace Damaged Tile
 Here's a way to replace damaged ceramic tile.  Remove the grout with a grout saw. Crack the tile with a hammer and c...
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Low Water Pressure in the House? Here's What's Wrong and How to Fix It
Low water pressure in the house can be a real annoyance—the shower subsides to a trickle, the washing machine takes e...
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How To: Repoint Brick Walls
Brick houses are hard to damage. Anyone familiar with The Three Little Pigs knows that. Inevitably, however, there co...
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Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?
Making good decisions is the key to minimizing near- and long-term costs related to any home improvement. This is esp...
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Quick Tip: DIY Mold Removal
Can You Tackle Mold Removal on Your Own?Mold problems are present in about 4 out of 10 American homes. With the often...
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How to Fix a Running Toilet
Nowadays, we don’t give much thought to our toilets, but there was a time when answering nature's call involved such ...
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How To: Fix a Leaky Faucet
A faucet—whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or behind the bar—acts like a mini dam, holding back a pressurized st...
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How To: Fix a Sagging Closet Pole
My wife and I recently reorganized our bedroom closet and added several new accessories, including a double rod hange...
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My House Contains Asbestos: Now What?
Many older houses incorporate construction materials that contain asbestos. Usually its presence is uncovered during ...
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How To: Restore Cabinet Finishes
Your kitchen gets a lot of use. So it doesn't take long to begin seeing signs of wear and tear on wood cabinets. Soon...
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Repairing a Retaining Wall
Walls, normally thought of as interior design elements, are useful in landscaping, too. A landscaping wall can be fre...
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Bob Vila Radio: Fixing a Slow Drain
Grace tweets, “The bathroom sink in my 1890s Victorian is draining really slowly. What’s the best way to get things f...
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Quick Tip: Fixing a Clogged Drain
Be Gentle on Old Drains A partial clog can be cleared by cleaning out the drainpipe. Older plumbing can be damaged by...
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How To: Dry a Wet Basement
A basement water problem can be as obvious as there being several inches of floodwater standing at the base of the st...
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How To: Patch Plaster Walls
Finishing a new wall or room with plaster or joint compound takes practice. If you have no experience with plaster or...
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How To: Replace a Door Closer
The door closer on my front porch—that mechanical cylindrical device that keeps the door from flying open too far and...
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Tour a Salvaged Home with the Latest Green Technologies
Architect Mary Kennedy and Bob tour her Georgian Colonial family home in Westchester County, NY. After a flood ruined the house, the challenge was to salvage and ...
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Installing Wood Shingle Siding
Bob works with contractor Bob Ryley and carpenter Chris Clark installing new wood-shingle siding.
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Brick Chimney Repair
Bob meets with Ed and Lisa Zywusko, a husband-and-wife masonry team, and sees how they are going to refurbish the old brick chimney.
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Installing Copper-Lined Gutters
Carpenters Bob Ryley and Danny Ruffini and copper-work specialist Fred Mitchell install custom fabricated copper-lined wood gutters on Bob's home.
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Installing Tumbled Marble Tile in the Shower
Tile is installed in the master bathroom’s shower area. A flashback reviews the waterproofing work that was done to prevent leaks.
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Fixing a Rotted Deck and Columns on the Porch
Carpenters replace a rotted deck, and a rotted porch column is reconstructed with concrete.
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Installing and Explaining a Basement HVAC System
Bob meets with the installer of the new HVAC system to discuss how it filters air and reduces energy costs.
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Reworking the Existing Plumbing and Replacing Brass Water Pipes with PEX Tubing
Bob reviews the work done on the existing plumbing in the basement and the replacement of obsolete brass water pipes.
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Keep Water Out of the Basement
Basement drainage systems are installed to control moisture and humidity and to eliminate rot and mildew.
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Touring a Neighborhood in Melrose
Bob meets with a local real estate broker and with homeowner Sarah Monzon, whose basement will be finished to create additional family space.
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Basement Remodeling Update and Installing Subfloor to Prevent Water Damage
Bob discusses the installation of a plastic subfloor to prevent water damage and the selection of a basement dehumidifier.
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Replacing Sill, Repelling Insects and Rot, and Installing Sliding Doors With Custom Trim Molding
Damaged sill is replaced, the house is protected against insects and rot, and sliding doors with custom trim molding are installed.
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Discussing Hurricane Resistant Building and Stem Wall Construction
Bob meets with FLASH—Federal Alliance for Safe Housing and FEMA—Federal Emergency Management Agency, to learn how homeowners can protect their homes from damaging...
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Minton Tile Repair in New York's Central Park
Bob visits the Bethesda Terrace in Central Park with Doug Blonsky of the Central Park Conservancy.
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Antique Brick Work at the Burtch-Udall House and Sumner Mansion
Bob and Professor Tom Visser (UVM) visit the Burtch-Udall house in Quechee, VT, and the nearby Sumner Mansion-- suitable locales for a running discussion on prope...
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Patching With Plaster
Chris Borovka (from US Gypsum) joins Bob to explain about patching with plaster.
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Hurricane-, Flood-, and Earthquake-Resistant Building
Bob meets with Beth Judge (of Clemson University) to review hazard-resistant building techniques at a demonstration house used to teach builders and architects in...
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Oak and Herringbone Floor Repair
Bob meets with preservationist Fred Ecker to go over the process of making repairs to the floors.
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Final Tour of the Restored "Bench" Porch House
Bob tours the finished house, the fifth in the Elmwood neighborhood project. Better grading and gutters have been added to prevent future water damage.
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Framing Begins on the Miami Home
As part of a Miami kitchen renovation, Bob frames a partition wall made to resemble a banana leaf. He also pours concrete to patch a floor.
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Exterior Paint Stripping and Priming
Bob examines the exterior of the home, where several layers of paint are removed, and contractor Cortney Lofton explains the techniques and tools used to restore ...
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Wood Floor Repair
Bob and homeowner Gavin repair and refinish a 75-year-old oak floor. Because the new patch floor panels have a different thickness from the original, a belt sande...
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Plaster Cornice Reconstruction
Bob surveys the plaster cornice in the project home. Water damage has ruined a large section and much of the remaining plaster needs repair. Bob and restoration c...
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Adding Detail to the Plaster Cornice
Bob observers the expert plasterer add detail to the cornice, which is under reconstruction due to water damage.
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Shower Stall Installation
Bob joins the plumber as he installs a shower stall in the kids' bathroom. After drilling the drain hole, the plumber demonstrates how to properly attach a metal ...
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Surveying the Deck Damage
Bob and the architect survey the problem areas of the home and eventually focus on the decaying deck.
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Hooking Up the Refrigerator Ice Maker
Bob has finished wiring the Colonial-style light fixture in the entryway and, back in the kitchen, the refrigerator ice maker is hooked up.
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Repairing a Broken Window Pane
Bob helps general contractor Ron Gan demonstrate how to repair a broken window pane the old-fashioned way.
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Attic and Basement
The tour of the project house continues up into the attic and down into the basement. Bob and general contractor Ron Gan discuss the necessary repairs and desired...
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Removing the Roof
The roofing crew strips several ancient layers of old roofing off the project house, leaving a section open for the installation of the new dormer.
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Restoring Old Windows
Ryan Pirro (from RestorationWindows.com) discusses refurbishing old windows with solid-bronze sash chains, new parting beads, and spring-bronze weather stripping ...
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