Q&A / 

Tim Carter demonstrates how to use hidden French cleats to attach gorgeous fireplace mantels to a wall. A clever way to attach the fireplace mantel to the wall without using screws or nails.

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Plywood and OSB (oriented strand board) has a grading system. The Engineered Wood Association has a labeling system to grade lumber for its recommended use. How to read the grading stamps and some sample OSB and plywood ratings are provided.

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Tim Carter demonstrates how to get professional painting results by caulking all cracks between woodwork and walls before painting. Discover how to caulk using a caulking gun.

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Ceramic tile floors are in many homes. They make a great floor unless one of the ceramic tiles gets cracked. Ceramic tile repair has two options - complete tile replacement or filling the crack.

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Does it make sense to buy the most efficient heat pump? It depends on your climate, location and energy costs. This chart makes a comparison of the heat pump efficiency, electric cost, yearly savings and lifetime operating cost.

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Heat pumps are very popular units. A heat pump is one of the most complex units in a typical residential home. A special thermostat is required for the proper operation between heat pump operation and the auxiliary electric resistance heating. Here are some simple facts about the heat pump mechanics.

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Topographic maps will tell you a lot about a lot. The spacing of the topographic lines will indicate any hills or valleys on that piece of property. Topography will aid in spotting streams or storm water retention basins on the lot before you purchase it.

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Foundation cracks are a serious matter, regardless of the type of crack. The following illustrations show the various types of foundation and basement cracks. These include hairline wall cracks, stair step concrete block cracks and cracks from the basement windows.

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