AskTheBuilder.com

Toilet Gasket

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 15:17:43 PST

The sewer gas odor in your bathroom might be from the toilet bowl gasket. An improperly installed toilet flange gasket will allow flumes to escape into your bathroom. There is a critical dimension when installing a toilet bowl gasket.

Best Space Heater

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:06:12 PST

Selecting the best space heater depends on several factors. Will the space heaters be used to heat an area and everything in it? Or do you only need a space heater to heat you? These factors will determine if an electric space heater, a propane space heater or radiant heaters will work best.

OSB Plywood

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 07:11:01 PST

Can wet OSB plywood be used for roofing? Roofing materials can get wet during construction.

Heating Systems

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:00:36 PST

In extremely cold snaps, your heating system might be working overtime to keep up the heat in your home. A furnace should be sized to meet the heat loss calculations for your home.

House Foundation Repair

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:08:26 PST

What if your house is built on an old landfill or dump? If the ground under your house is not stable, the foundation could get settlement cracks. Foundation repair can be done, but first you need to determine what type of subsoil under your house.

Frost on Walls

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:11:14 PST

When temperatures drop well below zero, frost can form on interior surfaces. This frost is condensation from the water vapor held in the warm air inside your house. What can be done to reduce interior frost?

Roof Vent Ice

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:03:04 PST

A roof vent cap can keep debris out of the vent, but it can also ice up in the winter. This ice can block the roof vents. Can the cap be removed?

Wainscoting

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:36:55 PST

Wainscoting can add dramatic character to a room. There are a few tips when it comes to installing wainscotting. In existing homes, you will need to check how the wainscoting paneling will fit around electrical outlets and door and window trim.

Radiant Floor Heating

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:39:36 PST

Radiant floor heating is heavenly and perhaps the most comfortable heating. Installing radiant floor heating is not a do-it-yourself project. Find a seasoned installer who can handle all the design specifications and piping. Water is pumped into various zones in your home. Each radiant floor heating zone can be controlled by an individual thermostat.

Wood Fencing

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:09:30 PST

Wood fencing can add a lot to the appearance of your home. There are several considerations when planning on how to build a fence. Be sure to check for underground utilities when developing your privacy fence or other fence designs.

Floor Grout Repair

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:30:46 PST

Grout failure can happen for a many of reasons. When doing floor grout repair, it is important to remove all the failed grout. Cleaning grout is necessary to ensure a good grout color match.

How to Clean Paint Brushes Video

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 10:10:20 PST

Follow these AsktheBuilder tips to clean your paint brushes and extend their life for many years.

Chainsaw

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:33:55 PST

There are many considerations when purchasing chain saws. Be sure to get a chainsaw that meets your needs - length of the chainsaws blade and the weight. Always observe chainsaw safety guidelines when operating your chain saw.

Standby Generator

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:32:03 PST

There is a big difference between portable generators and standby generators. A portable generator can be moved around and normally will operate a single appliance, maybe two. A standby generator or home generator can power an entire home. There is also a difference in the way they react to a power outage.

Patio Repair

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 12:23:39 PST

Patio repair can require a little work on your knees. If the mortar joints need to be repaired, remove all the old mortar and save it. After leveling the patio stones, replace the mortar around the patio stones.

Vinyl Siding Installation

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:36:39 PST

Installing vinyl siding can be done by a determined homeowner. Paying attention to details is important when working with vinyl siding. Upgrading your exterior insulation, air infiltration and weather barriers prior to vinyl siding installation is also a consideration.

Fire Pit

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:05:11 PST

There are guidelines when you build a fire pit. Fire pits are regulated in many communities. Consider the natural view when planning your outdoor fire pit. Prevailing winds should be considered when placing a fire pit.

Blacktop Driveway Crack Repair Video

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:49:15 PST

Tim Carter demonstrates one way to repair blacktop driveway cracks and shares a tip for concealing the repaired driveway cracks.

Septic System Anatomy Video

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:13:57 PST

Tim Carter explains the anatomy of a septic system and walks you through each part of septic systems - the septic tank, septic distribution box and leach field.

Blacktop Crack

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:57:16 PST

Blacktop crack repair can be a messy job. Newer crack sealers include one that is applied with a standard caulk gun. Use of foam backer rods can assist with the appearance of your blacktop crack filler. Carefully read all directions so an important step is not missed.