Q: What steps should I take to insulate an unfinished basement in a house I’m thinking of buying? I don’t want to use spray foam and I don’t want the job to be too expensive. Click above to avoid the #1…
Listen as Steve Maxwell talks about the problems with conventional basement finishing, and how you can finish your basement in a way that will avoid mold, mildew, and poor indoor air quality.
Building and renovating homes in cold climates requires vapour barriers in some places. Learn how the work and why they’re essential.
In this video Steve shows how to patch one of the most common types of drywall damage; the screw pop.
BRUSHLESS DRILL TOUR A reader named Vern asked about what type of cordless tools he might need for a remote island worksite without power. Vern is hoping to bring a bunch of charged batteries to avoid the need for a…
Q: What kind of basic cordless drill do you suggest for home use? I have a 12 volt model bought in 2010, but it’s not as powerful as it used to be. I need something more. A: There are a number…
Q: Is there any way to restore the scent of aromatic cedar in a bathroom cabinet and blanket box that I built? The great smell only lasted a couple of months. A: What you’ve discovered about aromatic cedar is common….
Insulation doesn’t feel like a thrilling home renovation topic for most people. But the fact is, you should be thrilled. Upgrading insulation can put money in your pocket, and who doesn’t like that? You’ll also be more comfortable at a given room temperature with added insulation and your home will have greater resale value especially as the world changes. Watch this video to see what I mean.
Sometimes a real challenge is just what people need. That’s why Steve thinks kids need a little less stuff in their lives and a little more incentive to go out and make things happen with their own small home maintenance businesses….
Note to a Discouraged Homesteader
Back in my previous blog I talked about the reasons I see would-be homesteaders change their minds and give up on dreams of rural living. This often involves rejecting too much technology, but there are other reasons, too. Mistaken ideas…
Nothing much happens without tools. But which ones will really serve you? Let Steve get specific and tell you all about the top ten tools you need to get started with home improvements, DIY and home repairs. There’s lots more to buy other than these, but the ones you’ll learn about here are the best to start with.