Protect your Surfaces During Construction
From bathtubs to hardwood floors to countertops, failing to properly protect surfaces will result in more costly callbacks that eat into those profit margins you’ve been working so hard to protect.
Builder Insights / Blog
Tag / DIY tips
Insulation Tips for Drafty Openings
Light switches, light fittings and outlets can be a major source of heat loss in winter and cool air in the summer. A tiny 1/8-inch gap around six ceiling light fixtures adds up to a 2 square-inch hole in your ceiling. Putting gaskets behind switch plates is a good start, but these don’t provide a …
Tips for Easy Wallpaper Removal
Wallpaper can be a real pain to renovate, so here are some tips to make this messy task more manageable. Take your time—wallpaper takes time to remove so set aside at least two days to do a full room. Leaving enough time will mean you don’t try to rush it and end up damaging your …
Improper Hardwood Flooring Care Could Void the Warranty
Hardwood flooring will change as natural environmental conditions change. The humidity and heat of the summer can cause wood to expand while the dry winter conditions will result in contraction. The manufacturers of wood flooring products have studied the idea conditions for their flooring and have detailed recommendations on the temperatures and ambient humidity that …
What New Homeowners Should Spend Money On
Whether you are the proud owner of a new house or a seasoned contractor advising new clients, knowing what to tackle first can really help you get settled in. Here’s how to decide what you can do yourself as a homeowner, and what you should leave to the pros. Angie Hicks from Angie’s List explains: …
Workshop Tips that Save You Money
Taking care of your tools and supplies will mean that you don’t waste anything, and you are able to get your money’s worth. The same goes for your equipment—you can add years to your tools if you look after them.
How to Remove Paint and Other Coatings Safely
Stripping a coating can be rewarding and it should be environmentally friendly because you are giving an old building, floor or piece of furniture a new lease on life rather than buying new materials.
Summer Renovations that Give you the Most Bang for your Buck
Homeowners are increasingly looking to reduce the monthly costs of running their home by improving their building’s energy envelope. As the summer temperatures rise, you can maximize your home’s energy efficiency by focusing on the following areas.
How to Prevent Humidity Damage
The key to preventing damage by moisture is to understand how water vapor interacts with building materials. Building materials absorb airborne water vapor and, if the material is cold enough to be below dew point, condensation occurs. We don’t want either condensation or absorption to occur, so there are two principles to adhere to avoid water damage, mold and mildew.
Choosing the Right Paintbrush for the Job
Getting a finish that looks like it’s been sprayed on takes careful preparation and execution. Choosing the right paintbrush is the key to success.
