ROOFS: Leak-Proof Alternative to Eavestrough
Sick and tired of leaky, clog-prone eavestrough? You might consider a trough-free alternative that Steve has used at his own place. Click to watch it in action.
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WATER HEATER MAINTENANCE: Have You Done the Annual Job?
The stuff you see here is mineral sediment from the bottom of a water heater. Annual flushing of tank-style heaters is essential for getting rid of this building up and extending water heater life. Click to see how.
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PORTABLE WORKSTATIONS: See My Two Favourite Options
More than one old-timer I know tells how new carpenters used to be judged on the job by their ability to build a sawhorse. If they could deal successfully with the required angles and joints of a sawhorse, creating something solid and…
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DOOR HINGE INSTALLATION: Watch Me Chop a Hinge Pocket for a Wooden Door I Built
Just for fun, here’s a two-minute peek over my shoulder as I use a super-sharp chisel and mallet to create a pocket for a hand-forged hinge for a wooden door I built. This is how all traditional hinges are installed.
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Upgrading Comfort: Why More Rogue Valley Homes Are Choosing High Efficiency HVAC Systems
Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley is one of the most beautiful places to call home, but with long, dry summers and cold winter nights, it also puts local HVAC systems to the test. For many homeowners in Medford, Ashland, and Grants…
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HOME PLUMBING: “What Kind of Salt Should I use In My Water Softener?”
Are you confused about the correct type of salt to use with your well water softener? That’s understandable. There are different kinds of salts, but without the right knowledge it’s not easy to pick one. This article is all about why…
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POWER TOOLS: Three Surprising Need-to-Know Facts
The power tool scene is improving so fast, you might not realize the advances. Click to read three things that matter for homeowners who who renovate or build things around the house.
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SUMMER COMFORT: Keep Upper Stories Comfortable When A/C Can’t
Want to keep a lot cooler in summer without relying so much on air conditioning? Check out Steve’s 2-minute video tour of how openable skylights can do this for you.
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WOODWORKING: See French-Made All-Steel Framing Chisels
Steve Maxwell, “Canada’s Handiest Man”, reviews Lee Valley All-steel Framing Chisels as must haves for the home woodworking hobbyist.
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WOOD FINISHING: How to Buff a Wooden Table Top For a Silky Smooth Surface
In this week’s video episode learn how to remove an existing tabletop finishing with a belt sander; avoid one popular type of sander when you’re smoothening a table top; choose and apply a repairable oil finish that’s excellent for tables; and see how oil brings out rich wood grain like nothing else can
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WOODWORKING: See How The Reflection In a Saw Blade Helps You Make Square Cuts
Click above to watch and learn about my favourite handsaw, and see how the reflection of the board you’re cutting can help make for square cuts.
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OUTDOOR PLAYSETS: Tips & Plans for Building Your Own
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, talks to homeowners about how to build a safe and fun wooden play area for children on their back lawn.
