Watch as my son, Robert, and I split a piece of limestone that’s way too big for a mini excavator to move. We used a technique involving some ancient tools called “plug and feather” wedges, plus the fastest rotary hammer…
Planning to build a deck? Be careful how you anchor it to your house wall, if you should even do this at all, as I’ll show you.
Sometimes a little woodworking trick can deliver a lot of value. That’s the case with an operation called “kerfing”. Click above to watch how I used kerfing to tighten up a visible joint on a deck project that’s got more…
In this video, Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, explains the usefulness of scale architectural models before beginning a custom home build.
Like slate roofs but not the high price? Check out this review of a slate substitute that’s half the price and less than half the weight.
There are reasons why ants are considered pests. With so many different species of ants, most homeowners face an unwanted ant infestation at one time or another. Ants make their way into your food, burrow into wood and seem almost…
Question: Can I drill a two-inch hole through the concrete floor of my basement for the drain tube of an air conditioner? The nearest drainpipe is 25 feet away and I don’t want to install plastic pipes running along the…
In at least one way, wooden residential fences are like most other home improvement projects. The more you put into design and construction details, the more you get back. This article is for people who want a lot from their…
Question: How should I choose a contractor to stop my basement from leaking water during wet weather? I don’t want to be ripped off and I feel like a sitting duck. Answer: You’re wise to be concerned because the technical…
A smooth, level driveway or sidewalk isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety and durability. When concrete starts to sink, it creates trip hazards, drainage problems, and an overall worn-out appearance. Over time, shifting soil, water erosion, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles…
The average homeowner isn’t necessarily an expert in everything related to home construction and repair. Unfortunately, this can lead to unscrupulous contractors taking advantage of their naivete and costing them thousands of dollars in repairs. Today, we’ll examine some of…
Here’s how to make your attic potential a reality.