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March 31, 2006
Sash Window Restoration
Restoring and repairing a sash window can be tricky work. The windows can vary from region to region and their conditions can merit major hair-pulling (probably why you waited so long to touch them). Here is a Do-it-yourself guide to working on sash windows.
Do It Yourself Sash Window Guide [Sash Window Specialists]
Posted by at 12:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | post to del.icio.usMarch 30, 2006
Lighting Sets the Tone
Plan your lighting layout with this helpful tool from Merillat. It outlines four different types of room lighting and how to achieve the perfect glow.
Lighting a Room [Merillat]
Posted by at 11:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 29, 2006
Watch Out for Home Improvement Scams
The burst in home construction and remodeling has also provided a sister industry of crooks that rely on the trustworthiness of homeowners to open up their homes for any "expert" that can help them create the house of their dreams. Prepare yourself by reading these tips.
Tips to avoid home improvement scams [Tampabay]
Posted by at 11:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usDIFM - Do It For Me
There is many consumers who like the concept of "doing it yourself" and want to be involved but just don't have the time or energy to spend remodeling a kitchen or bathroom. But they want to select every material used as well as work with a brand they trust. Lowes is capitalizing on this segment of "Do It For Me's" and they will not only sell you the granite countertops but they will install it and cabinets for you.
Not quite a do-it-yourselfer? [Charlotte Observer]
Posted by at 12:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 28, 2006
Mid-century Modern Furniture
Finding a Mogensen, Eames, Gehry, or Starck that is authentic or an authentic reproduction, can be difficult. Domino lists their preferred vendors of great mid-century furniture.
Finding Modern Furniture [Domino]
Posted by at 11:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 27, 2006
Hands Free Faucet
Now that we've got the technology we should use it. The Brizo Pascal is a hand's free faucet system that works well in the bathroom or kitchen. It debuted at the Builder's show this year so expect in stores in fall 2006 at a price of $700-$1100.
Posted by at 10:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 26, 2006
Squeaky Wood Floors
Squeaky wood floors are charming at first in an old building but living with them can be irritating. Natural Handyman has some fixes that should muzzle your creaky floorboards.
All Those Squeaks Just Floor Me! [Natural Handyman]
Posted by at 11:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | post to del.icio.usMarch 24, 2006
Build-It-Yourself
We've launched a new category called Build-It-Yourself. We are answering the demand for articles that are of use to the true DIY'er who wouldn't think of calling a contractor to install cabinets or replace a toilet but also aren't trades people by vocation. The articles in this category should still be useful for anyone, and who knows, you may even have the skills to tackle that landscape project that you were going to leave to the pros.
Posted by at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usSurfboard Coffee Table
It's always nice to incorporate your own interests or environment into your interior design. But this isn't always easy unless you can create your own custom interior pieces. Here's a surfboard inspired coffee table. What would you make?
Surfboard Table [DIYnet]
Posted by at 1:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | post to del.icio.usMarch 23, 2006
Kitchen Triangle
A great kitchen layout will allow you to work longer and more efficiently. When designing your kitchen keep in mind the "kitchen triangle" which centers your work space and cuts down on wasted movement.
The Work Triangle [Merillat Cabinets]
Posted by at 11:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usRearranging with the Seasons
Depending on your home's exposures, you may wish to consider switching the functions of rooms within your house in accordance to the seasons. In the winter you may wish to eat and read near the central cozy fireplace but in the summer months you'd like to enjoy your dinner time watching the sunset from a west facing room. All this without tearing down any walls.
Move the Furniture [Design Your Life]
Posted by at 3:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 22, 2006
Tools for Women
Women have long been involved in home renovation but they've always had to adapt to using tools that are made for the size and strength of men. The handles and heft of most tools have driven a number of entreprenurial DIY'ers to start their own companies that cater to the women remodeler. Barbara K and Tomboy Tools sell tools and books as well as offer projects and tips that any homeowner could use.
Posted by at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usInstalling a Shade Canopy
Prepare for summer now by installing a retractable shade canopy over your deck or outside area. Perfect for those days that are too hot to be outside in the sun but too beautiful of a day to be lounging inside.
Installing the Tracks for the Retractable Shade Canopy [DIYnet]
Posted by at 10:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usRemoving Vinyl Tiles
Vinyl tile is easy to clean and maintain but you still yearn for a richer and more solid flooring. Here's some tips to getting that vinyl tile up and there's no easy way.
Removing Vinyl Tiles and Lino Flooring [DIY Doctor]
Removing Vinyl Floors [Hammerzone]
Some recommend not removing the tile at all [InfoTile Forums]
March 21, 2006
Ask Houseblogs
Houseblogs.net is just over a year old and has become the mothership for anyone who is chronicaling the restoration or renovation of their home. Created by Aaron & Jeannie of HouseinProgress.net who own and restore their own 1914 Craftsman-style bungalow, Houseblogs is a community-driven site that allows members to share their DIY experiences and learn from others. One of the most helpful features of Houseblogs is the Ask Houseblogs section where readers can submit their own DIY challenges for other readers to answer. Next time you're in a quandry look here.
Ask Houseblogs
HouseinProgress.net
Collapsible Kitchen Bowls
Coolhunting brings us kitchen gadgets that take the term "stacking" to a whole new level. In the place of one bowl you could fit five. And measuring cups will no longer take up extra space in your utensils drawer.
Collapsing Kitchen Gadgets [Coolhunting]
Spring Cleaning
Today is the first official day of Spring and we've compiled a list of some great resources that will help you break out of the winter funk and prepare your home and household for warmer weather and a fresh start.
Spring Cleaning A Complete Checklist [About.com]
Quick tricks to help conquer spring cleaning [MSNBC]
Clean for Spring [The Olympian]
Versatile baking soda helps with spring cleaning [Arizona Republic]
Outside of house needs spring cleaning too [Orlando Sentinel]
Your computer needs spring cleaning, too [Union Democrat]
Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Finances, Not Just Your Home [Chron.com]
March 20, 2006
I Love my (outdated) Fridge
It's only natural that we become attached to our favorite household appliances, even if they sometimes prove more troublesome than their worth. From the toaster that burns just right to the oven that has settings only you know, there comes a time when they must be retired to the appliance graveyard (please recycle) or you must invest time and money (little or a lot of both) to reparing them.
Fix It or Ditch It [Popular Mechanics]
Posted by at 11:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usNo Ladder, No Cry
Cosco Products has an innovative ladder system that solves the problem of where to put the unsightly and awkward but very necessary and often used home ladder. At 5-feet it's perfect for the intermediate reaches that require just a bit more than a step-ladder but less than an 8-footer. The kicker is that this ladder folds into itself and you get a 6-inch cylinder that can easily fit in the corner of a closet or under the bed.
Super Fold ladder [Amazon]
Posted by at 11:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usBuilding Your Home
Speedyplan has a great 3-part series on Building Your Home. Part 1 covers plannning ahead and making sure you have a good idea about almost every detail of your home before you speak to a contractor or architect. They will undoubtedly offer new ideas and suggestions and you make their job easier if you already have a focus on the homebuilding process. Check out part 2 and 3 in regards to your budget and selecting a home site.
Part I - Building Your Home
Part II - Decide on a Budget
Part III - Choose Your Home Site
March 19, 2006
Finding Used Building Parts (Architectural Salvage)
With the expense of new furniture that may end up looking like the same Pottery Barn desk your neighbor has, why not comb through a salvage shop either online or at your local shop. You should have a gameplan before you start your search and make sure you are focused on what you are really looking for and how much you intend to spend. Ebay is a great comparison tool that allows you to browse for any product you want and should provide you with a gauge for market price.
How to Find Used Building Parts [About.com]
Posted by at 9:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usBuild an Interior Wall
When remodeling a large room it may be necessary to build a wall to create different spaces and add rooms. Building a non-load bearing wall is easier than you think and requires basic carpentry skills and the know-how to create a wall that is safe and up to code.
Building a Wall [Hometips]
Posted by at 9:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | post to del.icio.usMarch 17, 2006
Green Pavement
Biopaver debuted last year and sadly we haven't seen it catch on around New York. Besides adding beauty to urban landscapes, this "living" pavement is environmentally friendly and is also a natural remedy for storm management. Has anyone else seen Biopaver? and where?
Thanks for the tip Ram!
Posted by at 11:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usOrganizing Your Garage
We are staying with the Spring clean this week and moving on to one of the most important rooms in your house - the garage. Garages many times end up as catch-alls for anything that you want out of site and not in your house. This creates much more of a headache when the cordless drill you so desperately need is piled under the Halloween decorations. Reclaim your garage this weekend.
Organize a Family Garage Cleanup [About.com]
Tips for Cleaning [Suite101]
Clean Out Your Inner Garage [iVillage]
Garage Makeover [DIYnet]
Garage Plan [Polarweasel]
March 16, 2006
Build a Mud Room
Mud rooms, although common throughout the Northeast are virtually non-existent in the Southwest and many other parts of the country. But we think they could be just as useful in the high-desert or flat plains. It rains everywhere and even when it doesn't it can get very dusty, especially with kids in the house. DIYnet provides a step-by-step to building your own mud room that will keep the rest of your house cleaner.
Build Your Own Mudroom [DIYnet]
Posted by at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usCleaning Your Fireplace
As the weather warms you've probaby procrastinated cleaning out the ashes and soot from your fireplace in hoping that one more coldspell comes through and you'll have a season-ending opportunity to get a roaring blaze going. But if you feel the time has come to clean out your fireplace, here's how.
Fireplace-Cleaning Tips [Howstuffworks]
How to clean a fireplace [essortment]
March 15, 2006
Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Renovation Rants has provided a tutorial on their experience refinishing hardwood floors in their 1916 Craftsman. Here are some other resources for refinishing your hardwood floors.
Refinishing Hardwood Floors [About.com]
Is Your Floor a Good Candidate? [Hometime]
DIY Hardwood Floor Refinishing [Hardwood Installer]
Refinishing Hardwood Floors On A Budget [Top House Plans]
Refinishing a Hardwood Floor [Lowes]
Home Improvement is Healthy
Lowe's 4th quarter profits surged 37% on kitchen and bath remodeling. Although they are still number 2, their growth is definitely outpacing that of their chief rival. Their respective stock prices are also headed in opposite directions. In a category once dominated by Home Depot there is definitely a new kid on the block that is here to stay and if you don't already have a Lowes in your community you will soon. And sleep well knowing that you aren't alone in your remodeling needs.
Posted by at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 14, 2006
Lead Paint Removal
Lead wasn't banned from house paint until 1978. Which means there are still A LOT of homes out there with lead paint both inside and out. The hazards from lead paint increase each year as the paint deteriorates more and more. Besides a child ingesting paint chips, the dust particles can also be harmful.
Lead paint should only be removed by professionals and the following precautions should be taken by both the contractors and the homeowners.
Posted by at 1:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usUsing Chemical Strippers
Chemical strippers are no longer as dangerous or dirty to use as in the past. You can now remove paint and varnish safely and in a short amount of time. Follow this know-how from Home Depot.
Posted by at 1:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 13, 2006
360 Degree Outlets
Last year 360 electrical launched their 360 degree outlets and as amazing as the product is its also stupifying that a product like this hasn't come out sooner. With all of the new technology that require a more solid electrical connection and bulkier plugs and cables, we've been relegated to using power strips throughout the house just to accomodate a cell phone charger or hair dryer. The flexibility of these new outlets allow for the odd shape plugs and we believe these plugs could become standard throughout a home in the not so distant future. We're still waiting for the GFCI-compliant outlet which would really complete this line.
Posted by at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usDIY Toolbox
You are building everything else yourself, why not make your own toolbox and customize it with the exact features you want for your favorite tools. The color and finish are all up to you.
[via Toolspotting]
March 12, 2006
Staging a Home
Before inviting potential buyers into your home, one of the least expensive and easiest ways to boost your chances of selling your home is to "stage" it. Staging a home is more than just throwing the clothes in the closet and shoving magazines under the bed. In this era of real-estate frenzy a sub-industry of staging professionals has emerged and the best remain in high demand. Follow these tips to accentuate the best qualities of your home.
Posted by at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 11, 2006
Finding a Contractor
There comes a time when even the most capable DIY homeowners need to call for help. Whether it be for technical skill and know-how or physical labor, there are some projects that require the experience and eye of an expert. Finding these experts is no small task. Where do you start? As always its best to go with a friend or families recommendation but what if you don't know anyone who's needed to call a roofer or tilesetter?
Depending on where you live the Franklin Report has become an excellent source. Currently only servicing New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Westchester/Connecticut, the Franklin Report is an online and book survey of home renovation and maintenance service providers, based on customer feedback and reviews. Miami and San Francisco issues will be released later this year with other metro areas following.
Angie's List is another source for finding contractors and is built by word-of-mouth from different homeowners who submit their own reviews online. This is definitely a much more attractive way of searching than seeing who has the best yellow pages ad. Angie's list covers many more cities but you must subscribe (pay) before accessing any listings.
And if you're fortunate enough to live in New York city, New York magazine just released their Best of NY issue which includes their best home repair services.
After you've created your shortlist of contractors, follow these guidelines from eHow to help you in making your final decision.
Posted by at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 10, 2006
Matching Old Cement in Bricks
The cement found in most pre-war and pre-turn of the century homes is a basic mix of sand and lime. Over time this compound begins to deteriorate mainly due to moisture and the freeze/thaw cycle. Repointing brick is a tremendous job and not always necessary for an entire structure or wall. There may be only a few bricks that need repair but the old cement next to the new, will stand out more than Paris Hilton at a truck pull. Tom of The Home Improvement Ninja breaks down the technique used to create old "looking" cement from new.
Posted by at 10:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 9, 2006
French and Victorian Reproductions
Do you love the look of ornate french sofas or tiffany lamps? Antiques can cost a fortune and it's hard to find furniture that is well-constructed, beautiful, and reasonably priced. Heirloom reproductions specializes in hand-made victorian furniture and hand-painted victorian and tiffany lamps. Many pieces are built with the fabric of your choice and mahogany abounds. We love the Scarlett O'hara lounge and the understated Barrister mantle clock.
Stain Removal Guide
The Cleaning Center sells cleaning tools and products but they also provide a handy guide to removing stains, ANY STAIN. Oil, coffee, blood, grease, milk, wax, paint, etc...
Posted by at 3:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | post to del.icio.usMarch 8, 2006
Soundproofing a Room
The cardboard drink holders DJay used to soundproof his "studio" in Hustle and Flow may have worked for him but eHow.com provides a more effective way to keep noise from bleeding from one room to the next, sans drink holders. Readers also list some other great tips like building a room within a room.
Hand Planes
The beauty and organic use of hand planes is why they are one of the most collectible tools around. The simplicity of the hand plane is what we find appealing as well as the graceful curves that are found on most antique wooden planes. Antique hand planes look great displayed in your home and can bring a touch of rustic style to a contemporary room. The saw is our other favorite tool and for reasons that diametrically oppose why we love the hand plane so much (although a long saw can look great in the right home).
If you are interested in tool collecting the Mid-West Tool Collectors Association is a great place to start. They are dedicated to identifying and preserving early tools and studying how they were used decades or centuries ago.
Posted by at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usDuct Tape Uses
In college my friend Luke (not pictured) made a suit of duct tape for halloween and I now realize he was a pioneer in duct tape fashion. I've wrapped my foot in duct tape to protect a blister during lacrosse practice (not recommended). I suggest you use duct tape on your home and not on yourself. Here are some better uses for the magic tape.
Posted by at 12:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 7, 2006
Calculator Watch + Ruler
Never again will you need to count on your fingers or fumble with a dry pen and write on a deli napkin. And if "eyeing it" isn't enough this watch has a 15cm ruler to attached to give you exact measurements. [via Boing Boing]
Posted by at 10:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usBuild a Bird Feeder
It's still cold in the Northeast but Spring is just around the corner for many of you. That means baseball, budding plants, and birds. Like clockwork the birds return and with them life and leaves return to the trees and plants around your home. Why not welcome your winged friends with a DIY bird feeder. Lowes breaks down the tools and materials needed as well as the plans and instructions to build your own bird feeder.
Posted by at 10:40 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (1) | post to del.icio.usLumber Choices
Lumber is scored like diamonds and comes in varying grades based on flaws. knots, splits, and sap pockets that will all downgrade a lumbers score. That doesn't mean it's useless, as the cheaper grade of lumber is great for use below your deck or behind the walls. But don't go too cheap or you will jeopardize the integrity and strength of your floor or wall. Lumber Choices
March 6, 2006
Remodel or Move?
The remodel or move question is probably the number one quandry facing DIY renovators. Beyond any nostalgic or historical feelings one may have regarding their home, you can follow a calculated path to deciding how much you want to invest in a renovation as opposed to how long you'll be living in your home.
Third Age - Remodel Before You Sell?
About.com - Will Improvements Pay Back What They Cost?
Forbes - Best Real Estate ROI
MSN - remodel or buy a new house?
Reliable Remodeler - Planning to stay just a few years
So you've decided to DIY - what home improvement project will get you the best return.
Posted by at 2:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usOutdoor Storage Sheds
You've made the investment in nice tools, gardening equipment, outdoor furniture, and BBQ's, so don't let the elements destroy them. Here's a good start to selecting what type of shed you need and where to buy them.
Build Your Own [Buildeazy.com]
Choosing Outdoor Storage [Lowes]
How to buy a storage shed [EHow]
Sheds for the garden [Gardensheds]
Should You DIY?
You fancy yourself a do-it-yourselfer but should you really tackle that fireplace demolition or breaker box rewire? Ask yourself these questions before you do-it-yourself.
Posted by at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 5, 2006
Built-In Cabinet Installation
Built-in cabinets and bookshelves save floorspace which is vital in small homes. Here are some links to installing your own and what you should consider before designing and purchasing your cabinets.
About.com (how-to install kitchen cabinets)
Bob Vila (installation video)
Hammerzone (installing kitchen cabinets)
Budget Kitchens (installing kitchen cabinets)
On The House (choosing cabinets)
About.com (how-to install kitchen cabinets)
March 4, 2006
Geothermal Energy for Your Home
The California Energy Commission has a straightforward explanation of what geothermal heating is, how much it costs (short and long term), and what the advantages are. It truly is an under-used technology that can provide you with year-round comfort. Consider geothermal energy for your new build or renovation and you may save money while feeling good about it. Read on...
California Energy Commission (great graphic)
Geothermal Manhattan Townhouse (it's for sale)
Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple Goes Geothermal
Heat from the Earth to Warm Your Hearth
Geoexchange
Small Bathroom Tips
"Standard vanities are 21 inches deep, but if you order them at 18 inches instead you’ll gain floor space without losing too much storage." More bathroom tips from United Building Centers.
Posted by at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usMarch 3, 2006
Upmarket Treehouses
Birds-eye-view has a whole new meaning. Trendcentral turned us onto luxury treehouse builder, Baumram. They're based in Germany and at this time only work with European clients but with their modern sensibilities and high-end amenities we think they'd find a receptive market here in the US.
Paint Your Radiator
You can hide them (here's how), or you can embrace the unique features of the twisted iron and metal and make them work for you in more ways than one. Old House Journal explains two techniques that will beautify your radiator.
Lighten Up
Lighting your home is more than just sticking a halogen in the corner. Lisa Goldberg of LightenUp! Designs has created multiple lines of hand-made ceramic lamps that not only bring light to your room but some color as well. She believes that fashion and furnishings should go hand-in-hand which is why her distinct lamps radiate colors that are normally reserved for the runways of fashion week.
You Grow Girl
One our favorite home interest sites is You Grow Girl. It's more than just a gardening blog. Gayla Trail has created a well written and beautifully designed online gardening community. The forums are active and the articles are well written and to the point. We are easily amused and one of our favorites is How to Grow Your own Pineapple.
March 2, 2006
Remodeling Industry Sees Gains
According to Remodeling Online, Americans spent $150 million on home improvement and remodeling their homes last year which was up 4.3% from 2004. The real estate market may have cooled in some areas but current and new homeowners will continue to work towards increasing the value of their home as well as creating a better space to live in.
Toolspotting
Our friends at Houseinprogress.net have launched a sister site called Toolspotting.net that's dedicated to the latest and most unique tools available to the DIY enthusiast. Nice job Aaron & Jeannie!
March 1, 2006
Stopping Drafts
Readymade found a great draft stopper that will keep you warmer and save on your energy bill.
Posted by at 8:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | post to del.icio.usKitchen Islands
A properly designed kitchen island can won't make your food taste any better but it can make preparing that food much more enjoyable and your cooking workflow more efficient. Here's an ezine article about what to consider when planning and building a kitchen island.
Log Cabin Love
The quintessential American home isn't a Greek-revival or Victorian, but the Log cabin. According to About.com, Log cabin construction started in the 1700s when Swedish settlers brought building customs from their home country. The design of America's log cabins was influenced by the Homestead Act of 1862. The Act gave "homesteaders" rights to open land, but required that they cultivate it and build homes at least ten by twelve feet in size, with at least one glass window.
Today's log cabins are much more luxurious and feature all the amenities you'd find in any modern home. But proper care and maintenance still requires a contractor with log cabin experience. American Log Restoration, Terrasol Restoration , and Vintage Log and Lumber, are just a few of the renovators who specialize in this brand of home building.
Sticking Wood Drawers
One of life's little annoyances can be sticky wood drawers. With a bit of lubrication you should have smooth gliding drawers in no time. And as a last resort you can try sanding the drawer until it fits evenly, but remember it's permanent.
eHow.com states "Excess moisture due to rain or humidity makes wood swell and often causes the drawers to stick. Application of wax, such as beeswax or paraffin, seals the wood and helps prevent moisture-induced swelling."
