How to Build a Deck Q&A Q: What should I do about a deck that’s bolted to my house without provisions waterproofing? The edge of the floor frame is attached to the house frame, but with no flashing for waterproofing the…
Q: What’s the best way to make threads in steel for small bolts? I know there are tools for this, but I’ve never used them. A: The name of the tool used for cutting threads inside a hole is a…
Join me for instalment#1 of a video tour of the kind of typical work I do here at our place on Manitoulin Island. See a burning barn, watch some building work, join in driving the forest, see a vigorous but friendly…
Q: How can I get rid of the sulphur smell coming from our sink and bathtub drains? We brought in a plumber to investigate but all he suggested is to get our air circulation system cleaned. The problem first surfaced…
I get basement renovation questions by email from people around the world, and I do my best to answer as many as I can. Below you’ll find a Q&A exchange I had with JM, a homeowner looking to finish an…
Have you ever felt the urge to create things from metal? Better-than-ever tools mean this is an excellent time to begin, and welding is a big part of metal fabrication. The simplest, most economical and easiest-to-master option is something called…
If you’ve been paying attention, you may have noticed more and more public spaces have Braille signage these days to help the visually impaired. Is this a real necessity or just a common willingness to showcase extra care for people…
Solar generators are an up-and-coming portable energy technology that lets you make modest amounts of electricity without connection to the utility grid and without burning any fuel or making any noise. Build one yourself plus two other solar energy projects. Plans, videos, instructions and fun
Installing trim? Be sure to see the five tricks that’ll make the job easier. Bonus video, too!
Looking to upgrade your roof? Metal roofing offers an attractive and durable solution for most homes. With long warranties, durability and ease of installation it might be the solution to your next roofing project.
Q: How can I deal with partially insulated basement walls in my new home? A layer of insulation extends partway down the wall without a wall frame, with nothing at all on the bottom 4 feet above the floor. Should…
Want a glass-smooth urethane finish on wood? The video and article below are one of my most popular pieces of content, and you’ll be amazed by what you can accomplish with this simple wood finishing technique. More than 1,400,000 people…