Understanding Thickness of Plastic Sheeting

February 19, 2012

Plastic sheeting is made of polyethylene (a.k.a. plastic “poly” sheet) and is very handy to have several types around your workshop. Plastic sheeting comes in a wide range of thickness, rated with the term MIL. 1 MIL is a measurement unit that equals 0.001 inch which is about the width of an average human hair. [...]

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References

February 18, 2012

Best of Building Science – tons of video tutorials about best practices in home buildings http://www.bestofbuildingscience.com/   Old House Web http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/double-hung-window-construction.shtml   Extreme How-Tos http://extremehowto.com/window-trim-basics/   MEASURING HOW TALL SOMETHING IS http://www.exploratorium.edu/math_explorer/howHigh_makeInclino.html CALCULATING A PITCH (ROOF, SILL, ETC)   Adventures in DIY http://www.adventuresindiy.com/home-improvement/kitchen/replacing-the-kitchen-faucet     Be Sociable, Share! Tweet

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Windows For Home 101 – Window Types and Window Anatomy

February 18, 2012

WINDOW TYPES There are three basic choices when replacing a window: new construction, sash replacement-kit, or wood and/or vinyl replacement windows. If I have the opportunity to do a total remodel, I would choose a new construction window every single time.  I have never really tried sash replacement kits because I think it does not [...]

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Reviews – Circular Saw Blade Depth and Angle Adjustments

February 18, 2012

I have owned this Black and Decker circular saw for over 15 years now and it just keeps on working like it was brand new.  Other than replacement blades and some electrical tape (accidentally cut into the cord when the blade was not completely stopped), it can still rip through any lumber I throw at [...]

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References – Bolts, Washers and Nuts

February 18, 2012

A bolt is a threaded fastener with a head, designed to be used in conjunction with washer(s) and a nut. Bolts come in many different types and sizes, depending on the situation.  Generally speaking, I like working with either 1/2″, 5/8″ or 3/4″ hexagon headed bolts when working with support / framing (i.e. decks, joist-sistering, [...]

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Product Reviews – Structural Connectors

February 17, 2012

There seems to be two major companies making various structural connectors, such as deck ties, hurricane straps, etc. OVERVIEW – SIMPSON STRONG TIE Simpson Strong Ties products are universally available at both Home Depot, Lowes, Sears, and other big box home improvement  stores as well as online stores. For more than 50 years, Simpson Strong-Tie [...]

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How I Saved Thousands of Dollars By Building My Own Shed – Part 1 of 3

February 13, 2012

With 2 young children around, I needed to take back my 2 car garages and actually use them as car garages, especially during inclement weather. I had collected a decent amount of DIY tools and power equipment over the years which eventually took up from one side of the garage. I figured I would be [...]

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Installing A New Hot Water Heater Tank

February 13, 2012

When a hot water heater tank no longer produces enough hot water consistently, maybe it’s time for replacement. But first, here are some tips when troubleshooting your hot water heater tank: Age of the hot water heater tank; Temperature outside (if exceptionally cold outside, repeat the test); Tank is leaking water (no matter how small); [...]

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Review – Lowes Kobalt 60-Piece Flat End Composite Hex-Torx Key Set

February 13, 2012

Retailer: Lowes Manufacturer: Kobalt Item Description: 60 piece flat end composite hex-torx key set Lowe’s originally contracted with Snap On tool company to make a lower quality tool line for them called Kobalt, made in USA. That contract expire d then Wal-Mart bought a large share of Lowe’s and now most Kobalt tools are made [...]

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Where to buy GE Dishwasher PDW9200 Parts

February 12, 2012

Because I have had such a bad experience, both with Lowes repairman and Home Depot delivery services, I said heck with this, I am going to see if I can fix this thing myself. The parts I needed were: Cap Assembly (CAP ASM, WD12X10236) Gasket Fill Hole ( WD08X10060) Lock Nut Assembly Kit (WD35X10068) dishwasher [...]

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