Archives
Salvaging the Good Stuff
When an old house faces demolition, a deconstruction crew offers an alternative to the landfill: Unbuild it piece by piece to preserve and recycle its period materials
S29 E3: Prepwork and Inspiration
Prepping the footings for new porch columns. A perc test for the new landscape plan. Shingle style review and plan. Removing a rotted red maple from the side yard with a tree crew and crane.
How To Measure a Window Opening
Measuring your windows accurately will ensure your new exterior shutters or windows fit the way they should. Here's how to do it.
How to Make a Folding Screen Using Old Hinges and Shutters
Here's how to link together old shutters for a practical folding screen that you can use for privacy and an added decor touch.
S6 E3: Replacing a Toilet Flange and Plaster Repair
Richard helps a homeowner replace a toilet’s broken cast-iron "closet flange". The guys ask, "What is it?", Tom helps a homeowner repair a cracked plaster and Roger shares a tip on digging holes.
A Guide to Understanding How Standby Generators Work
Learn how standby generators keep your essential appliances running smoothly during power outages, plus advice on choosing the right option for your home.
How to Seal a Door Gap
Learn how to use silicone weatherstripping to fill gaps in your door
54 Simple Ways To Go Green
Here are some low-cost steps to take around the house to reduce your carbon footprint and lower your monthly bills.
The Scoop on Solar Power
You don't have to live in the Sunshine State to take advantage of renewable energy
S29 E2: Big Plans
Host Kevin O'Connor sees the plans for a large new patio, the kitchen, plumbing and heating and the 100-year old chimney. Roger Cook cuts down the giant yews obscuring the front of the house.
S6 E2: Carpentry Squares, Brick Patio
Tom Silva shows Kevin O'Connor a few different types of "squares" used for general carpentry. The guys ask, "What is it?" and Roger helps a homeowner build a new patio using concrete paving bricks.
DIY Haunted House Ideas and Tips
Create a spine-chilling haunted house with expert scare tactics. Learn timing, effects, and psychological tricks for unforgettable frights.
Balancing a Ceiling Fan
Is your ceiling fan wobbly and rattling? This guide will show how to easily and safely balance and level your ceiling fan blades.
Detecting Drafts With an Energy Audit
An energy audit can help homeowners find the spots where fuel costs are flying out the windows and walls
Spooky Ruins
This Halloween, the best buildings on view are the ones that haven't been renovated or maintained—for a long, long time All photos from the American Ruins film project
S29 E1: Move or Improve?
Kevin O'Connor and master carpenter Norm Abram arrive at the latest project house in Newton, Massachusetts, An 1897 Colonial Revival in late Victorian Shingle transitional-style.
S6 E1: Bathtub Drain, Ceiling Repair
Richard heads to Cleveland, Ohio to help a homeowner replace a bathtub drain trap. Tom helps a homeowner repair a cracked drywall ceiling. Then the guys ask, "What is it?"
10 Clever Uses for Drywall Screws
Drywall screws can be used to snake drains, hang lights, or silence squeaky floors. Read about 10 clever uses in our guide.
Mix Your Own Shellac
Stirred and shaken with alcohol, flakes are the way to go
Installing Decorative Tiles: A Step-By-Step Guide
Beautify your home by DIY-installing decorative tiles—and avoid filling their nooks and crannies with grout.
Design Your Own Art Tile
For truly one-of-a-kind tiles, many companies will create custom pieces on request
Making Clean Cuts in Glass
A safe and simple guide to making clean cuts in glass
How To Get the Best Finish for Handrails
Shellac is the best finish for handrails and other high-touch areas like banisters. Here's how to apply it yourself.
A Comprehensive Guide to Replacing Two-Prong Receptacles
There are several ways to upgrade older two-prong receptacles to three-prong ones. Learn more from expert Heath Eastman.
Divining Uses for Stained Glass
Vintage windows can improve the look of your interior, block unsightly views, filter sunlight, and more
