Tips and Tricks

The Best Way to Water a Lawn

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Instead of watering on a frequent basis, the best way to water your lawn is once a week for an extended period (slow watering) rather than more often for shorter periods of time. This allows moisture to penetrate deeper into […] Read More »

Checking a Level for Accuracy

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If you have an older level, chances are it might be out of level. So how do you check? Simply place it on a level surface, then flip it over. If both readings are identical, your level is level. If […] Read More »

Sanding Irregular Surfaces

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Sanding irregular and uneven surfaces can sometimes be a problem. Corners and grooves can be extremely difficult to reach with a flat piece of sandpaper. For sanding irregular edges of table tops, chair legs, etc., use a deck of cards […] Read More »

When to Reseed a Lawn

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Despite what you might think, the best time to seed your lawn in the fall, if possible. Of course, lawn seed can be sown at other times of the year. But fall is the ideal time for seeding to rejuvenate […] Read More »

Repairing Cracks in Concrete

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Cracks in sidewalks or driveways that are larger than hairline cracks must be enlarged before they can be satisfactorily repaired. Enlarge the crack along its entire length with a cold chisel and hammer (Fig. 1). Make the crack wider at […] Read More »

How to Replace Damaged Shingles

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Making repairs to an existing asphalt shingle roof is easy when you follow these step-by-step instructions. Use a small pry bar to pull out the nails holding the damaged shingle. Remove both the nails and the shingle. If you cannot […] Read More »

Making Old Paint Like New Again

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If you’ve been storing paint for a long time, it may contain impurities such as dirt or lumps. There is no need to throw this paint away. Instead, cut a disk of window screen to fit just inside the paint […] Read More »

Brush Techniques when Painting Corners

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When you’re painting corners, always use the flat side of the brush instead of the side of the bristles. Painting with the side of the brush causes “fingering.” Your paint job will be neater and your brush will last a […] Read More »

Adjusting a Refill Valve

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If your toilet tank has a conventional ballcock refill valve, the water level is adjusted by bending the float arm. The level should be high enough for complete flushes, but the water should not be to the top of the […] Read More »

Paper Plate Paint Drip Tray

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You can avoid paint rings and drips on the floor by sticking a paper plate to the bottom of the paint can before you start your next painting job. Just apply a little paint to the bottom of the can […] Read More »