Tips For Today's Homeowner: Recent Episodes
Danny Lipford
Need to get hot air out of the attic or level a floor? These 90-second vignettes feature practical hacks and advice to keep your home in great shape. New Tips for Today’s Homeowner — hosted by Danny Lipford, America’s Home Improvement Expert — drop each weekday.
Got a project that requires digging in the yard but don’t know where those buried utilities are located? Here's how to find out where they are and avoid a huge mess.
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White caps may look nice on a mountaintop, but not so much on your house. Find out how to disguise unsightly pipes on your roof with this simple trick!
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Did you know there are some houses that NEED to have holes in the side? Find out why brick homes need a few holes in the right place.
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Every kid on earth has heard these words from a parent: "Were you born in a barn?! Close the door! " Listen to this tip for simple way to keep the outdoors outside where it belongs.
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We all want our lawns to be lush and green, but in many places water is in short supply. Listen to learn about watering without wasting.
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Want flawless flooring? Whatever you do, remember to keep it on the level! Listen to learn how important it is to start out on an even plane.
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What does your home’s appearance say about you? Here are some simple, budget-friendly ways to improve your curb appeal.
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One of the most dreaded Saturday chores is cleaning out the garage! Here are some ways to make the job easier and the space more useful!
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Is your patio or deck simply too hot to enjoy this time of year? Listen for an easy, inexpensive way to create shade for an outdoor space.
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Do you discover other yard chores that need to be done as you push the mower around your lawn? Here are some clever ways to multi-task while you mow.
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Does the thought of trying to do any work on your roof fill you with dread? Here are tips to make the chore safer.
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Do your rocking chairs leave ugly scratch marks on your hardwood floors? Here's a simple way to solve that problem!
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Do your water bills go crazy when the weather warms up? Here's how to keep your landscape watered without breaking the bank.
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Does it seem like the sprinklers in your lawn don't reach as far as they used to? Here's the cause and an easy solution.
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Are gnats invading your backyard? Listen for ways to keep them at bay!
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A large construction or remodeling project is like a giant jigsaw puzzle that doesn’t always come together as planned. Follow these tips to prevent small hiccups from becoming major issues down the line.
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They may be cute and fun to watch, but they can also spell disaster for your home. Here are tips for controlling squirrels.
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If the winter wasn’t kind to your deck, you may be nervous about all the traffic on it during the upcoming summer months. Here are quick tips to get your deck ready for those guests.
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Warmer weather means that your lawn-mowing chores are ramping up. Listen for some ways to get your mower ready to work!
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With summer on the way, your grill will be getting a workout. But is it ready for all that activity? Listen for some pointers to make sure it is.
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As the weather warms up, we all spend more time outside. Listen to learn how to make those meals you eat outside a lot easier to endure.
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Do you hate painting windows as much as I do? Here's a trick that takes the misery out of this chore.
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Are gnats ruining your backyard parties? Listen to learn some ways to keep them away!
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Sweaty windows, peeling wallpaper and musty odors are all symptoms of a poorly ventilated home. Listen to this tip for a crash course on house ventilation.
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Sprucing up your home with a coat of paint is an easy upgrade, but what can you do about a bland concrete porch or patio? Listen for an easy concrete upgrade that isn’t just another pretty face!
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Have you thought about putting sunscreen on a wooden fence? Listen to learn why sunblock for your fence is so important!
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For many people, spring cleaning means breaking out the pressure washer! But this tool's blast is too strong for some things. Listen to learn where not to use one.
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If you like potted plants in your home, don’t forget the peanuts! Listen for a simple tip to keep your potted plants healthy.
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Do you find it hard to mask oddly-shaped items when you're painting? Listen to learn about an easy way to solve that problem.
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Spring is a great time for house painting because you need warm weather to apply paint, but it's not hot enough yet to make it miserable. Listen to learn a trick to simplify paint projects.
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Looking for a low-cost way to make your home more environmentally friendly? Here's an inexpensive, water-conserving upgrade idea.
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Looking for a backyard project this spring that you can get the kids involved with? Here's how to 'take a step' in the right direction.
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Our planet is a pretty precious commodity, so we need to treat it right. Here's one of my favorite ways to save energy AND be kind to the earth.
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Water is a vital resource of life. But sometimes, it’s nothing but an unsightly blemish on your wall or ceiling! Here's my secret for a foolproof cover-up.
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Pollution from ground runoff is a growing problem in our country. Here's how you, as a homeowner, can help reduce it.
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A rocking chair can be relaxing no matter what time of the day. But there’s one seat in the house you don’t want to rock. Here are tips to put an end to rocking toilets.
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One topic that should never go out of style is recycling. Here's why it’s important and how you can help.
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Looking for a way to water the garden without ever turning on the faucet? Here's a fun project that will save water and money too.
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Tired of doing the same job over and over again? Here's a permanent fix for one of those everyday annoyances around the house.
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As the weather warms up are you itching to get to work on your yard? Here are tips for fertilizing your lawn.
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Do you ever get frustrated removing those stickers from new tools or appliances? Here's how to easily do it without making a mess.
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As spring yard work begins, you’ll probably have gasoline stored somewhere around your house – maybe improperly. Here's how to store it safely.
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For most of us, the worst of the cold weather has passed. Here's an easy way to make an unused fireplace a bit more attractive.
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Much of spring cleaning is about removing stale odors that have been trapped inside all winter. Here are tips for getting rid of those smells without making the house smell like a chemical factory.
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Do your lawn and flower beds fight over real estate? Here's a simple, inexpensive way to separate the two.
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Sometimes the solution to a household problem comes from the most unlikely source. Case in point: here are some unique uses for dryer sheets!
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It’s the wettest time of the year in many areas of the country, and homeowners need to make sure all that water is headed the right way. Here are some quick tips about drainage around your home.
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Most people would agree to practice an eco-friendly approach to living as long as it doesn’t break the bank. Here's a green idea that costs next to nothing.
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If someone in your house has allergies or asthma, you know how dust affects them, even when you clean frequently. Here's a solution to some of those concerns.
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There’s nothing more aggravating than a table or chair that wobbles when you use it. Here's a simple solution for those shakes and wobbles.
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As the weather warms up, we all want to open up the windows and let in the fresh air. But before you do, here's what you should know about window safety.
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If you're washing machine is made to wash, why would you wash it? Here's why this is actually very important!
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Do your stained wood cabinets look dated? Here's a simple way to bring them into this century.
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When the choices come down to saving water or saving money, why not do both? Here's a hot idea that could mean cool savings in your wallet.
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Do the tub and shower surround in your bathroom need an update? Listen to learn about properly planning for a new one.
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By the time we start planting, we have often lost the patience necessary to do the job neatly. Here's what you should know about making do-it-yourself seed tapes.
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Does your home have those bumpy, textured, popcorn ceilings? Here's what to consider if you want smooth ceilings.
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Have you been sweeping things under the rug all winter? Here's a spring cleaning trick that's sure to help!
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Do you find that working on outdoor projects is hard on your lawn? Here are some ways to protect the grass while you're working.
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Does the finish of your paint projects disappoint you? Here's how to make sure you get the finish you want.
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Spring's almost here and soon it will be mowing season. Follow these tips to ensure your lawn mower is ready to get the job done this year.
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Nothing looks better than a well-kept lawn. Here's how to make yours the best one on the block this season.
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Are you planning to update your kitchen or bathroom with a new faucet? Here's what you should know about finding the most durable faucet for your home.
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These days it seems almost everyone is watching their pennies to try and make ends meet. Here's a simple way to update your home without spending much money.
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A little bit of paper can make a world of difference. Listen to learn why some insulation has a paper face and when & how you should use it.
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The screen on a faucet aerator traps all kinds of debris, from rust particles to calcium deposits. Here's what you should know about cleaning out that gunk.
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If you could make your home feel warmer this winter without actually raising the thermostat you would, wouldn’t you? Well, here's how to do just that.
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You know that terrible feeling you have when a clogged toilet is about to overflow and you don’t know how to stop it? Here's how to avoid a flood.
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Nothing traps your home in the seventies like shag carpeting or dark wood paneling. Here's how to get rid of the retro look in your family room.
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In the wintertime, it’s nearly impossible to keep your floors from getting tracked up with snow. Here are tips to protect your floors from what comes with the snow — namely, ice melt compound residue.
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With a nation of baby boomers approaching retirement, universal home design takes on a new importance. Here's what it means for you.
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Trying to decide if you should take on a project around your home? Here's what to consider before you dive in.
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Is the water pressure in your home too low or too high? Here's how to determine if you have a problem — and how to fix it!
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During the long months of winter, we take more notice of our indoor air quality. Here's why the paint on the walls in your home affects this.
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Did you know your home can have good condensation and bad condensation? Here are some solutions for the negative side of all that sweating on your windows!
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Clothes dryers are one of those modern conveniences that can easily be taken for granted, but don’t let warm air meant for your clothes heat up the wrong things. Here are some important dryer safety tips.
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How do you cope when you have a four-legged family member that seems to shed more hair than it keeps? Here are some easy ways to keep the fur from flying.
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Storage space is always at a premium in the kitchen, so how do you create more without adding any cabinets? Here's how to maximize the cabinet space you have.
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Does your kitchen counter look like the discount table at an electronics store? Here's how to corral the charger chaos in your home!
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Do you feel like you're dancing with doors when you move clothes from the washer to the dryer in your laundry room? Here's a solution.
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Do your shelves look a little too do-it-yourselfer? Here are some ways to make them look more sturdy and attractive.
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Have you ever had to put the brakes on a project because it was simply too cold to paint? Listen to learn about some ways to work around the cold.
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Is your garage too full of junk to park the car inside? Here are tips to maximize the space for storage AND your cars.
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Are you sprucing up the inside while it’s cold outside? Here's a trick to take some of the hassle out of painting doors.
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Common sense tells us that the chill of winter means you should close off every possible opening to protect your home from the cold. But there are some doors that should stay open. Listen here for details.
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With all the extra time we spend inside our homes during the winter, we often discover repairs we‘ve missed. Listen to learn how to take care of a water-stained ceiling.
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Worried about taking a tumble on that slippery wood deck? Listen to learn about the right steps to take to avoid a mis-step.
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Sealing our homes for energy efficiency is usually a good thing but it can cause problems if we don’t manage it well. Listen to learn about watching out for mold while you’re saving energy.
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A faulty water heater can be as dangerous as a ticking bomb in your home. Listen to learn about checking the temperature pressure relief valve.
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Our homes are filled with electronic gadgets that make our lives easier, but sometimes they need a little help from us. Listen to learn about selecting a surge suppressor to protect your home electronics.
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For many people, a new year brings resolutions, but don’t let that resolve get buried in last year’s clutter. Listen to learn how to have a fresh start to the new year.
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Do you find yourself buying new nails or screws every time you start a project? Here's an easy way to keep up with those fasteners so you can find them.
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Even though it’s a new year, you may be facing an old problem that could be costing you a lot of money. Listen to learn how important it is to get your home's "ducts in a row."
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January usually brings us the coldest weather of the season and, for many homes, frozen pipes. Listen to learn about how to avoid frozen pipes.
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Is your bathroom a sticky, stinky mess? Listen to learn how proper bathroom ventilation can cure this problem.
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When you walk into your bathroom, do you feel like the floor is never clean, even though you scrub and mop it every week? Here are some simple methods for cleaning grout lines.
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Picture this: You're in the middle of a project and you reach for the glue — but it takes forever to squeeze it out. So, what can you do? Here's a simple way to solve this problem.
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Indoor painting is among the most popular projects for homeowners to tackle themselves. Here are some ways to make it easier and more successful.
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Let's face it: Whether it was a gift for the holidays or a purchase you made yourself, ready-to-assemble furniture can be tedious to put together! Here's a way to speed up the process.
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Do you ever find yourself with a mess you just don't know how to clean up? I'll tell you about a solution that's probably already in your house.
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Does it seem like your garage floor is dirtier than the outside? I'll share some simple ways to keep it cleaner!
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If you're looking for an inside project this winter, I have a great way to improve the appearance of any room! Listen to learn about scraping a textured popcorn ceiling.
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Do you find more insects and other pests sneaking into your house this time of year? Listen to learn about a way to stop the migration!
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With Christmas behind us, it won’t be long until you get rid of that tree. But you don't have to throw it away — listen to learn about Christmas trees' many uses after the holidays.
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One of the most common causes of injury this time of year is ice. Listen to learn about dealing with the slippery stuff!
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Organizing kitchen cabinets is a challenge for lots of homeowners. Listen to learn a solution that's quick, simple and inexpensive.
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If you find yourself with one or more unused rooms, think twice before closing the door! Listen to learn the myths and facts about closing off rooms to save energy.
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Everyone is concerned about air pollution, but sometimes we overlook a source we can easily control. Here's how to reduce your wood-burning fireplace's impact on the environment.
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Here's a common problem: You drop a hammer on your hardware floor while hanging a picture. But what's the solution? Listen to learn how to deal with that dent!
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Finishing your home's basement is a great way to economically add living space. Listen for tips to start this process the right way.
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Sometimes, the simplest chores can become the most difficult ones! Here's a quick fix to keep a simple chore — hanging pictures — simple.
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For many people, the holidays include trips to see family and friends in other places. Listen for tips to keep your home secure while you're out of town.
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Do you hate polishing silverware? Listen to learn an easy way to do the job without ANY elbow grease!
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Before Santa Claus takes a trip down your chimney, make sure he won't arrive in a smokey mess! Listen to learn an easy way to clean soot from your fireplace surround.
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Holiday decorating is in full swing! Listen to learn how to keep your home safe — and bright — while you make it festive!
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Is the expense of updating your home's door hardware getting out of hand? Listen to learn a simple way to cut costs!
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During the winter, staying warm is probably one of your top priorities. Here's how to prevent the passage of unwanted house guests who have the same priority in mind!
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A cozy fire can really set the mood, but don’t let that mood turn sour! Here's what you should know about fireplace fuel.
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Some home repairs seem like they never end! Listen to learn about getting to the root of the problem to keep it from coming back.
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You may never see the greatest threat to your health inside your home. Listen to learn how to protect your family from carbon monoxide.
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It's easy to lose hand tools if they lack a proper home. Storing them in drawers, like the ones in commercial tool cabinets, is an excellent way to keep tools neatly organized, but you need to take these steps to really protect them.
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Cold weather has a habit of shutting down any outside entertainment. However, you can keep the outdoor party going with a fire pit!
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As we lock ourselves indoors for the upcoming cold months, we're also locking in excess moisture. Here's how to prevent any damage by properly ventilating your home.
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Here's how to organize your kitchen cabinets with items made for the office!
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Which do you hate more: raking leaves or bagging them up? Here's an easy way to reduce the hassle of leaf collection.
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Using a blower to remove leaves from gutters is a quick way to eliminate clogs. Here's how to increase the air pressure so you don't have to keep moving the ladder.
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A workshop can never have too many clamps. Here's how you can make them do their job better.
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How can you get glue inside a tight crack? The answer is in your medicine cabinet!
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Touching up paint for holiday guests? Here's how to prevent drips from ruining surfaces.
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Here's how to keep your bathroom trash can out of sight but still easy to access.
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Finding room for a worktable in a garage or basement can be a challenge. Here's a folding solution that saves space and is easier to work on.
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Got cracked concrete? Here's why you need to repair cracked concrete before winter arrives.
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Here's the Simple Solution for preventing drywall joint compound from drying up in between jobs.
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This time of the year, lots of people are adding insulation to their homes. Here are some tips for making this project go smoothly.
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Filling small gaps and cracks with caulk stops drafts in your home, but what do you do with larger ones? Listen to learn the answer.
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Here's how to tell if a project can be done by yourself or if you should call a professional.
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Before the weather gets too cold, you may want to take stock of your home's energy efficiency. Here's how to do an energy audit.
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A portable generator can be a big help in a power outage, but you have to use it safely. Follow these tips.
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With colder weather approaching, people are looking for ways to stop every draft in their homes. Here's one spot you might not have thought about.
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Sometimes, the hardest part of a project is removing the stuff you want to replace. Here's a solution for removing stubborn adhesives.
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The laundry room is one of the most-used spaces in a home. Here's how to get the most out of your laundry organization.
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As winter gets closer, more people are looking for ways to reduce utility bills. Here's one you may not have considered.
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Canister vacuums can contribute to the scattering of dust and allergens in your home. Consider this type to ease your allergies.
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Soon, it'll be too cold to open your windows for some fresh air. Here's what to do to improve your indoor air quality now.
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If you're looking for an excuse not to paint, the weather just might provide you with one. Follow these temperature guidelines when painting outside.
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Now's the time to shield your deck against winter damage and snow. Here's how to do it.
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Sanding is important for any wood project, but it can be difficult to get into those tight spaces. Here's a simple way to get it done!
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Most projects require some type of glue at one point. Listen to learn which one to use and when.
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If you haven't already, you'll soon be putting your mower away for the winter. Do this to prevent start-up problems when spring rolls around.
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Now's the time of year when yard work shifts from mowing to raking. Here's a tip for picking them up quickly.
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Worried about roasting your lawn when you build a fire in your backyard fire pit? Here's how to build a fire-resistant surround!
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Baseboards are a paint to paint because they're narrow and surrounded by other surfaces you don't want to paint. Here's a simple way to paint baseboards cleanly.
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Can find every electrical circuit in your circuit breaker panel? Here's the easy way to find the one you need.
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There are more ways than ever to get that look of a wood floor in your home. Here are three main options to choose from.
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Cleaning windows is never fun, and it's especially difficult do on second-story ones. Here's the quick and easy way to do it.
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If you've ever tried to enlarge a hole that was drilled with a hole saw, you know it's a pain. Here's an easy solution.
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The No. 1 cause of water heater failure is sediment build-up. Here's how to remove it and extend the tank's life.
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Tap water can be overwhelmed with contaminants, including pesticides and some pharmaceuticals. Here's what you can do to get better-quality water.
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Everyone likes a clean kitchen, but this appliance often gets ignored. Listen to learn how to clean it.
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Cuts and tears can ruin the look of vinyl flooring. Here's an easy way you can repair it yourself!
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If you're hanging a heavy item on your wall, you'll need the solid backing of a stud. Here's how to find them.
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Clamps are a huge help for lots of projects, but only if they reach as far as you need them to. Here's the easy way to extend them.
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Changing out tub hardware is a great way to give your bathroom an updated look, but a faucet that's been in place for years can be difficult to remove by hand. Here's the easy way to remove it.
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Levels and squares make sure work runs straight and true, but what happens when they aren't true? Here's how to test them.
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No matter how good you are with hammer, eventually you'll have to pull a nail or two. Here's the easy way to remove a stubborn nail.
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A rug that slips around on the floor is annoying at best and dangerous at its worst. Here's how to keep it in place.
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Water is a necessity of life, but too much of it can be troublesome. Here's how to keep it out of your basement.
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You might have a slow-leaking toilet and not realize it. Here's how to test it to see if you're wasting water (and money!).
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Wondering how long the stuff you buy for your home will last? I'll break down the numbers on common items.
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Not sure whether to entertain guests inside or outside? Here's how to do both!
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Is your outdoor living space bland and boring? Here are some ways to enhance it with a focal point.
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Do you dread raking leaves? Here's an easy way to get it done faster.
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Constantly fighting against a sagging gate? Here's an easy solution.
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Are your downspouts causing more problems than they're correcting? Here's how to better control where the water goes.
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This task on your home maintenance to-do list often gets overlooked, but it's the most noticeable.
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Is your siding starting to show signs of wear and tear? Here's how to solve this problem for good!
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It may be the 21st century, but your home may be in need of an update using this ancient material.
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Ever feel like you need more hands when putting a project together? Here's a tip for easier assembly.
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Get the most out of your tool storage space with this tip.
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Is the fear of drywall dust clouds keeping you from starting a renovation project? Here's a way to sand drywall with less mess.
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We're fast approaching the hottest days of the summer. Here's how to stay safe as the mercury rises.
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Just like you need sunscreen in the summer, your deck needs some extra protection from the sun. Here's what you can do.
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Your windows may be making your home hotter. Here's what you can do to keep your cool inside.
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Want to save as much as 10 percent on your utility bill? This is what you need.
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Are the edges of your laminate kitchen countertop peeling off? Try this easy fix.
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Going on vacation? Here's how to keep your plants alive and well while you're away.
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Are cracks in your asphalt driveway starting to look like a road map? Here's how to get it back in shape.
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Scrambling to find a bucket every time it rains? Here's how to put a stop to a leaky roof.
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Are loose nails a stepping hazard on your deck? Use this to drive them down, so they stay put!
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After a rainstorm, your door mat can become useless if it soaks up water. Plus, the constant moisture can lead to wood rot and termites. Here's how to solve this damp dilemma.
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Laying tile is physically demanding. Here are a few tips for an easier installation.
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Unless you have an irrigation system, you've probably gotten your share of showers while trying to position movable sprinklers. Here are some tricks to stay dry.
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Is your lawn showing the strain of the summer heat? Here's how to protect it.
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Has the summer taken a toll on your deck? Here are some tips to get it in shape before fall.
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Change up the look of your outdoor space with this cost-effective concrete floor update.
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Weeds taking over your yard? Here's what to do to make weeds disappear on their own.
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Green mold and mildew growing around your home? Here's the formula to get rid of it!
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Sunlight exposure takes a toll on your home's exterior. Here's how to minimize the damage.
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Want to keep your outdoor party going after dark? Follow these maintenance tips to extend the life of landscape lighting.
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Need to paint your home's exterior? Only do so under these weather conditions.
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Sink your teeth into these cooking tips that'll keep you cool and save you some money!
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Storing gas for your outdoor power equipment? Never keep it in these two spots! Here's how to store it safely.
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Even if you have a lock on your storage shed, thieves can still remove the door. Listen to learn how to add extra security.
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Adding an A/C? Size matters! Listen to learn how to determine how big, or small, your A/C should be.
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Tile adds some pizazz to a bland concrete porch. Just be sure to pick the right material! Listen to learn what type of tile you need.
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Listen to learn how this children's toy can be used to remove unwanted water anywhere!
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Patio or driveway looking a little worse for the wear? Do this to make it look brand new!
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Here's how to keep your pets safe during the dog days of summer.
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Get the most out of your garage space with these storage tips.
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Don't have A/C? Here's how to stay cool for just pennies on the dollar.
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Long summer showers making your water bill skyrocket? Install a low-flow showerhead! Do this test to see if you need one.
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Constantly replacing putty knives? Here's how to keep them clean so you can reuse them.
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Create a home that's customized to your needs. Listen to learn how universal design can make your home more functional.
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Save water (and money!) while watering your lawn. Here's how to get the most out of your irrigation.
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Poor attic ventilation can increase the temperature in your living spaces. Here's how to keep hot air out so your home stays cool this summer.
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Lawn and garden tools taking over your garage? Store them in a lean-to shed! Listen to learn how.
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Are your outside surfaces looking dingy and dirty? Here are 3 tips to get that satisfying feeling of a clean patio or driveway.
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When you take a deep breath, are you sure you’re breathing in fresh air? Here are a few ideas for keeping a clean A/C unit this summer.
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Many homeowners are tackling do-it-yourself flooring these days. A popular option is tile but if your slab is not level it could come back to haunt you. Here are a few tips on how to keep it level while flooring.
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Do you ever discover other yard chores that need to be done as you push the mower around your lawn? Here are a few ideas to make your mowing experience more efficient.
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Nobody likes to do it, but the whole family benefits from a clean garage. Here are a few fun ways to keep everyone involved.
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Create a budget-friendly shade space for your back porch without spending a fortune.
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If you want to improve the look of your home’s interior, updating the flooring is a great place to start. Here are some great tips on how to do that without breaking the bank!
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Dealing with wasps and bees can be risky. Here's how to keep them away and what to do if you do get stung.
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Replacing a damaged window screen is easier than you think. All you need are these three tools.
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If you have a brick home you should see several gaps in the mortar about every six to eight feet around the bottom. These are intentional and here's why.
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Are dry, brown spots popping up in your yard? Your lawnmower could be the culprit! Do this to keep your yard looking sharp.
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Mowing the grass makes your yard look nice, but are you unknowingly harming it? Here are a few steps to follow to have healthier, happier grass.
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We all want our lawns to be lush in green, but in many places, water is in short supply. Here are some tips for making your irrigation system more efficient and less wasteful.
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Are your pets itching for some relief from fleas? Here are a few simple solutions to help you and your pets relax and enjoy summer a little bit easier.
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You only get one chance to make a first impression. What does your home’s appearance say about you? Check out these simple ideas to upgrade your home's look without breaking the bank!
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A simple coat of paint isn’t enough to hide water stains. Do this so they’re gone for good!
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Keep cool this summer without multiplying your utility bill.
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Have you thought about updating the look of your home by painting the bricks? Be sure to follow this helpful tip before you choose your paint!
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Have you ever tried to drill through ceramic tile and have had the drill bit "walk" all over the tile? Here is how to stop it.
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Do your kids (or spouse) constantly leave the door open and let the A/C out? You might be just as guilty of running up the A/C bill. Keep all of your A/C in with this helpful tip.
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When building an outdoor structure like a gazebo, arbor, or pergola, be sure to follow these 3 tips to ensure you build it the right way.
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Does your yard irrigation system seem to not reach as far as it used to? Try this helpful tip to maximize your water output!
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Gnats are a real problem this time of year. Are you doing everything you can to keep them away? Here are a few tips on how to conquer your gnat problem!
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A pressure washer is a great cleaning tool because it uses water at high pressure to force away dirt and grime. But water at that pressure can also do damage to building materials. While these tools are great for concrete drives and vinyl siding... other surfaces require some though and care. Wood, hardboard and fiber cement siding can be cleaned with a pressure washer... but use. Using the sprayer too close to the surface can remove paint or gouge the material. The same is true for wood decks and fences... keep a little distance. Windows and doors however, should never be cleaned with a pressure washer. The high pressure water can blast past their seals... damaging them and creating a mess inside. Spend a few extra minutes and wash them by hand.
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A wood deck is a wonderful place to spend a sunny afternoon, but that wood takes a beating from the weather, so from time to time it needs a little TLC. Rain, snow and the beating sun not only make a deck dirty, they can also break down the wood fibers. And changes in temperature make the wood continually expand and contract, leading to cracks. What it needs is a little protection, in the form of a deck sealer or stain/sealer combination. Before you apply it though, you’ll need to clean the wood with stiff scrub brush and some detergent. If you have access to a pressure washer that speeds the job up, but be careful not to gouge the wood. When the deck is dry you can apply the sealer with a roller or pump up garden sprayer and then work it into the gaps and cracks with a paint brush.
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Your dishwasher deals with some yucky stuff day in and day out. So, it's a good idea to clean, deodorize and sanitize it occasionally. Here's how.
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If your home has wooden steps on a porch or deck, you know it only takes a little rain for them to become slippery and dangerous. Regular cleaning helps, but try this trick for a more permanent solution.
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If the weeds are taking over your lawn, it may be because the lawn isn't healthy enough to compete with them. Here are some ways to give it a fighting chance.
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Changing weather conditions can punish a wood deck. To keep guests from getting splinters in their hands or tripping over loose nails this summer, do this.
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Have you ever noticed the different colors of spray nozzles available for pressure washers? Knowing those colors will help you choose the right tip for the right job.
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Squirrels can be entertaining and they always seem to be the first in line at the bird feeders. But these furry little entertainers are NOT that friendly when it comes to your home. Squirrels are often responsible for damaged wood around your house where they chew through to gain access into the attic. They even chew up lead roofing pipes just to sharpen their teeth. And if they ever DO get into your attic, they create nests, leave smelly messes and can even chew wiring and create a potential fire hazard. Professional pest control is your best option for removing the squirrels, but you can lessen their desire to get inside by creating a separate feeding area away from your home and stock it with two of their favorite snacks --- peanut butter and sunflower seeds. You’re happy...they’re happy...and you save your home from damage
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When you spend the time and effort to make your house look good on the outside, you don’t want something like a dull, gray patio to take away from its beauty. Making concrete complement your home is easy. First, clean the concrete thoroughly. You can use specialized concrete cleaners or use a pressure washer to remove any trace of dirt, mold and mildew. Next, apply a coat of concrete stain. This stain can be a solid color or translucent. I personally like the translucent style so any features of the concrete can still show through. Once the stain is dry, add a little pizazz by applying a coat of high-gloss masonry sealer. Not only will it look great, but you get the added benefit of the stain and sealer protecting the concrete.
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Because they sit idle all winter, lawn mowers are often neglected tools. But taking care of a few maintenance chores early in the year will ensure that your mower works well for you all summer. First, check the air filter. If it's the paper type replace it. The foam type can be washed with soap and water. When it dries condition it with a drop or two of motor oil. Speaking of oil... check it! If it's darker than the color of tea ... change it. It's probably a good idea to change the spark plug too, for more reliable starts. Next... sharpen the blade. You can do this with a hand file, a bench grinder, or even a belt sander. If the blade is too worn... replace it.
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Many of the cleaners we use for our bathrooms use bleach and other harsh chemicals to disinfect and cut through soap scum but this chore doesn’t have to be an assault on your sinuses. You can make a great cleaner that will disinfect and deodorize by simply mixing a one-to-one solution of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Once clean and dry, coat the shower door with one of the many water repellant formulas available designed for car windshields. This treatment creates a barrier between the water and the glass so water droplets run off quickly. That means dirt and soap scum roll right off and water droplets never get a chance to calcify on the surface, so all you need to clean the glass is a soft cloth and water.
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Even great paint won’t stay on a house long if the surface isn’t properly prepared before it’s applied. So, a little extra work up front will save lots of work later. Paint won’t stick well on a dirty surface, so the first order of business is cleaning. Tri Sodium Phosphate mixed with water makes a great cleaner for painted surfaces, but be sure you rinse it well with a garden hose or a pressure washer. Any paint that’s bubbled or cracked needs to go, so some sanding and scraping may be necessary. If you expose the bare wood you’ll want to apply a coat exterior primer over those areas so the topcoat will stick properly. Finally, apply some quality latex caulk to all the gaps or cracks and once it dries, you’re ready to paint.….
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Everyone knows you need sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. The same principle applies to a wooden fence; but instead of burning, the wood will turn gray, warp, crack or cup. The solution begins with a thorough cleaning. Use a detergent made especially for fences or decks and a pressure washer to remove the dirt, algae and mold that are causing it to discolor. It’s important that you don’t allow the cleaner to dry on the wood. Rinse it off within 15 minutes and be careful not to use too much water pressure. Wood should be washed with pressure between 500 and 800 PSI to prevent damage. Once the fence is clean, you’ll want to stain or seal the wood to help protect it from the sun’s UV rays. An oil stain is the best choice to really penetrate and protect your fence for years to come.
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Almost every home has special trim work outside. From brick moulding around doors and windows, boards that outline the eaves, or exterior crown moulding ….this trim has a way of adding definition and style to a home. But, because these are wood pieces on the outside, they’re constantly under the barrage of Mother Nature. Both weather conditions and insects can deteriorate trim before you know it. When it’s time to replace that trim, consider using cellular PVC instead of wood. Cellular PVC looks just like wood, comes in a smooth or a wood grain finish, and it will never rot, warp or be attacked by insects. It will cost about 20% more than a wood product, but you will NEVER have to replace it again.
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The difficult things about painting a door when it’s vertical are the drips and runs that always happen. If you take the door down and paint it horizontally, you solve that problem but that means you have to wait for one side of the door to dry before you can paint the other. The solution is a simple one. Drive two 3-inch screws into the bottom of the door near each edge leaving about two inches exposed. Then drive one 3 inch screw into the top of the door at the centerleaving the same amount exposed. Rest the exposed part of these screws on a sawhorse at either end of the door. When you finish painting one side you can lift the door by the two screws on the bottom and pivot it on the single screw at the top to continue painting the other side.
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We aren’t the only ones who get more active in warmer weather, so it’s no surprise when the ants go marching one-by-one across your kitchen countertop. You grab the ant spray, give them a blast or two and wind up throwing away food and cleaning up a toxic, smelly mess of insect spray. If that sounds familiar,there’s good news because there are safer methods that you'll love using to get rid of these pests. Mix up a little soapy water in a spray bottle and spritz it along their trail. To keep them out of your pet’s food, set their food dish in a pie-pan of soapy water. And instead of poison powders and toxic sprays, try chili powder to create an insect barrier. Inside or out, it's safe, inexpensive and non-toxic. This summer, wage a safe, non-toxic war on the ants with weapons that blast them and not you.
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Everyone knows you need sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. The same principle applies to a wooden fence; but instead of burning, the wood will turn gray, warp, crack or cup. The solution begins with a thorough cleaning. Use a detergent made especially for fences or decks and a pressure washer to remove the dirt, algae and mold that are causing it to discolor. It’s important that you don’t allow the cleaner to dry on the wood. Rinse it off within 15 minutes and be careful not to use too much water pressure. Wood should be washed with pressure between 500 and 800 PSI to prevent damage. Once the fence is clean, you’ll want to stain or seal the wood to help protect it from the sun’s UV rays. An oil stain is the best choice to really penetrate and protect your fence for years to come.
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Every Spring the hood of my truck turns yellow for several weeks because the pollen in the air is so thick. That's no fun for folks with hay fever and allergies but it also makes a mess of porches, patios and decks. The problem is that the pollen is so fine that sweeping or dusting only stirs it up to land somewhere else. The only answer is to wash it away. First, move all the furniture, planters and accessories off the patio or deck surface and mix up some mild detergent in a bucket of water. Rinse the surface and then gently scrub the floors, shutters, columns and railings with a soft bristled brush.... I like the kind that will thread onto a broom handle. Then rinse it all again and repeat the process with the furniture.
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Window screens seem to be a magnet for dust, dirt and cobwebs, but because they are also somewhat fragile, cleaning them can be a pain. The best way to do the job is to submerge them in soapy water. But how? Well, a child’s pool will work for smaller screens but for larger ones you can build your own pool. Nail four 2x4s together, each about 6 feet long, on a flat, level surface to create a square. Over the square you’ll drape a piece of plastic that overlaps each edge by about a foot. Add some water and detergent and you have a window screen bathtub. Let the screens soak for a while before you scrub them with a soft bristled brush or a broom. Follow that with a good rinse and your screens are ready to go.
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Before you fire up the grill this summer, be sure it’s clean. Not just to impress your guests, but to keep it safe. Grease build-up in a grill leads to those nasty flare-ups that are dangerous and can ruin a good steak. On a gas grill, that means first cleaning the drip pan and the shields over the burners. For a charcoal model emptying the old ashes will usually do the trick. As it starts heating up, scrub the grates with a wire brush to remove the excess grease. If you don’t have a grill brush, use a crumpled up piece of aluminum foil. To cut the grease on the outside of a stainless steel grill, you’ll want to use a cleaner designed specifically for that surface. Now, get that grill clean and enjoy the warm weather.
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Are you ready to take your Spring cleaning to a new level? We will tell you about a cleaning chore you have never tackled, but you probably should!
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Are you planning to do some building to make your backyard better? Join us for some tips for backyard building!
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Are your backyard parties being ruined by gnats? Join us for some tips on how to keep them away!
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Paint and varnish can go bad or dry up even in a tightly sealed can because there’s always some air trapped inside the can. So, a half full paint can... is also half full of air. And that air causes the paint to dry and form a skin on its surface.
Next time you seal a partial can try this: Carefully push a layer of plastic wrap down onto the surface of the paint and press the edges of the plastic wrap against the sides of the can.... making sure there’s no air trapped beneath the plastic. The plastic will keep the air in the can from contacting the paint and prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the paint. Next time you open the can... toss the plastic wrap and get painting.
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Caulk not only improves the appearance of a paint job, it also seals out moisture and drafts.
But sometimes caulk joints fail because the crack they cover is too wide. If a gap is more than a quarter inch wide you'll want to first fill the void with a product called “backer rod.” This material is essentially a roll of foam rubber rope that's available in several diameters. You force the rod into the gap with a putty knife and push it down just below the surface. Then apply the caulk on top of the backer rod to completely seal the gap.
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