Caulking Doesn’t Have to Be Hard QUESTION #1: Tim, my husband caulked a few things in the bathroom and made an enormous mess. The caulk is smeared and there are gaps. Can it be repaired? He had the best of intentions but didn’t seem to be concerned about the final appearance. How does one get […]
Gutter Guard Madness Question #1: Tim, the annual gutter cleaning campaign is about to happen. What’s your feeling about gutter guards? Have you tested any? There are so many different designs, how do you even begin to make a decision? Are they really worth it in the long run? Is there a cheaper alternative? Molly […]
New Concrete on Old Question #1: Tim, I desperately need your help. The concrete sidewalk and driveway at my house are falling apart. The top surface is crumbling yet just below the surface the concrete is as solid as rock. It’s only a few years old. What’s causing this? Contractors have told me I need […]
Holes in Ceramic Tile Question #1: Tim, how in the heck do you drill a simple hole into ceramic tile? I’ve been trying to do it for the past half hour and nothing is happening except the drill bit is getting red hot. I just grabbed my husband’s cordless drill and put a bit into […]
Backer board is a term used to describe a drywall-like product that goes behind ceramic tile. Cement backer board was developed first to replace the cement mud and metal lath systems installed by real craftsmen. Tile backer board now comes in all different types from cement to specialized gypsum-core products that are faced with fiberglass. Installing cement backer board is easy if you have the right tools.
Ask the Builder Podcast 11 Highlights: Bruce's new blacktop drive needs support at one edge Jack's brick home leaks in driving rains Diane has crumbling concrete steps Tim shares a story about new ceramic tile bubbling up off a floor! NOTE: Transcript of this story below. CLICK to LISTEN to Tim's AsktheBuilder Podcast 11. Podcast Sponsor: […]
Rock Retaining Walls Question #1: Tim, I read a column on your website about rock retaining walls. I’m having a hard time believing you can build a lasting wall and not use mortar between the stones. I’d love to just build a wall and not have to use mortar. What’s the real secret? Karen - […]
Ask the Builder Podcast 1 Highlights: Tim calls Jill and they discuss the best way to repair wood kitchen flooring Cutting out damaged area and installing an inlay different species border is an option Greg asks Tim about porcelain tile vs hardwood flooring in his new San Tan Valley, AZ home Hardwood presents many challenges on […]
How to Remove Patio Tiles Video You can remove patio tiles in a flash using a cordless rotary chipping hammer. For one thing, your back is going to love you. A power tool with a 3/4-inch flat chipping chisel can remove full tiles in seconds if you get under the tile. Related Links Demolition Gloves […]
Install Mexican tile? You bet you can do it. It's much easier than you can imagine. Install Mexican Tile On Smooth Slabs Mexican tile is soft because it's not fired long in a hot kiln. The concrete slab under the tile needs to be very strong so the tile doesn't crack. The concrete slab should […]
Subscribe to the FREE Ask the Builder newsletter to receive professional advice for your home. Complete the form below and each week you'll get:
Unsubscribe at any time. We respect your email privacy.