What Repairs Are Owners Liable For When Renting Out A Home

Rental property must meet minimum standards.

An implied warranty of habitability, although unwritten, is an understood agreement that a property owner will maintain his rental dwelling as required by city and state housing codes. Courts will uphold this requirement in a dispute between owner and tenant. Owners must maintain the inside and outside structure of the rental property to these minimum standards.

Exterior

Property owners are required to maintain the outside structure of the rental house, studio, apartment or other dwelling. Outside maintenance includes providing waste receptacles and arranging for waste removal in all rental property except houses. Stairs and porches must be safe from slippage; handrails and railings must be sturdy. Doors, locks and windows must be fully functional and weatherized. Stairways, lobbies and halls must be clean and free of risk. In apartment complexes, property owner are responsible for snow and ice removal.

Interior and Plumbing

Walls and ceilings must be without holes, cracks, lead-based paint and mold. Floors must be structurally sound and safe. Bathroom and kitchen floors must be waterproof. Pest control is also the responsibility of the property owner. The structure must have clean running water and sufficient hot water. Plumbing fixtures must be free of leaks and all appliances must be fully functional. Lights and light switches must work. Property owners must supply working smoke detectors when the tenant moves in; however, the tenant is responsible for keeping fresh batteries in the detectors.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling laws vary depending on the state. In general, property owners must supply heat only. Property owners are required to supply air conditioning only if air conditioning was present when the tenant moved in. If the heating (or cooling unit if present) malfunctions, the property owner is required to repair the unit.

Tenant Rights

If the property owner refuses to make repairs, the tenant has several remedies. The two most common remedies available to tenants are "repair and deduct" or to withhold rent. If, after submitting a written statement of repairs, they are not completed by the landlord within a reasonable time, the tenant can arrange the repairs himself and deduct the cost from the monthly rent. The other alternative is to withhold rent until the repairs are completed. Not all states recognize these actions. Arkansas, Colorado, and Georgia have no statutes regarding rent withholding or repair and deduct, while Alabama, Florida, and Kansas have a law for rent withholding, but no law for repair and deduct. A tenant should consult an attorney before taking action. Also, the property owner is not responsible for damages caused by the tenant.

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Waterproof An Old Basement

Seal your basement to keep water from seeping in.

Snow and rain saturate the soil around the foundation of your house, and the water can flow into your basement through cracks and joints in the concrete. Keep your basement dry by finding ways to keep the water out. To waterproof an old basement, start inside the basement itself, filling cracks and waterproofing the walls. Go outside when you're finished, and set up a system to keep water as far away as possible from your home and basement. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Fill hairline cracks and holes in the walls and floors of your basement with epoxy or latex waterproofing mix. Dip a wide paintbrush into a bucket of waterproofing mix. Brush the mix over the hairline cracks and, let it dry.

2. Patch cracks larger than 1/8 inch with hydraulic cement. Mix cement and water to make a mixture with a loose consistency. Pour the cement into visible cracks in the walls and floors. Pour a line of cement around the entire periphery of your basement floor where the walls meet the floor.

3. Fill large leaks where you can see water seeping into your basement with a thicker mortar cement mixture. Mix one part mortar cement and two parts of fine sand with enough water to make a stiff mortar. Dip a trowel into the mortar mixture and spread it over the crack, forcing it into the crack. Don't leave any air holes. Smooth over the mortar with the trowel.

4. Seal the foundation of your basement by painting a coat of waterproof paint on the walls inside your basement. Dip a wide paintbrush into the bucket of waterproof paint. Start painting on the upper corner of one wall, and cover the whole wall, top to bottom. Continue painting until all walls are covered with paint.

5. Go outside to check for signs that rain water is flowing from the roof down the walls of your home and into the basement. Install extensions to the ends of the downspouts to carry rainwater as far as possible away from your foundation.

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Cut A Concrete Driveway For Repair

Driveways take a lot of abuse.

After living in your dream home for a while, the house will begin to show wear and tear from everyday use. Your driveway is one part that takes a lot of abuse. In time, it will crack, and the crack eventually will begin to break apart and crumble. The typical do-it-yourself handyman can make driveway repairs with a few tools available at a rental store. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Snap a chalk line on the driveway where you want to cut it. Use blue chalk for this step in a chalk line. The chalk line has a built-in container that holds powdered chalk. As you pull the line out of the case, the line becomes covered with the chalk. When you hold the line tight between two points and snap it, the line deposits a layer of chalk and a creates a line to follow.

2. Put on safety equipment to include safety goggles, hearing protection, dust mask, pants and a long-sleeve shirt. When cut, concrete makes a lot of dust that is dangerous to breathe. The saw also throws off a lot of small pieces of concrete that can be dangerous.

3. Place a 1-inch-by-6-inch piece of wood next to the line. A 12-foot piece of lumber will work best for this. The wood acts as a straight edge to run the cut off concrete saw against.

4. Score a line 1/4-inch deep along your chalked lines with the cut-off concrete saw. The straight edge of the 1-by-6 piece of wood will guide the score line to keep it straight. Walk along the wood to keep it from moving as you score the concrete.

5. Remove the wood and continue to cut the concrete the rest of the way through. Where you are not cutting all the way across the length of the concrete, you will have to cut past the intersection of where the lines meet in a corner. The diamond blade is round, so there will be concrete remaining in a corner unless you cut past the corner about 3 inches.

Tags: chalk line, piece wood, straight edge, that dangerous, will begin

Fix Frozen Computer Screens

Although annoying, a frozen computer screen is a relatively simple fix.

When using a computer, a common annoyance is when the screen freezes. This means the mouse cursor and any buttons on the desktop are essentially stuck. A screen could freeze for several reasons, including a problem with a connection, a program crash or a bogged-down hard drive. In any instance, one of the surefire ways to fix this issue is to restart the computer. However, because the mouse cursor is not in use, use the keyboard to command a restart.

Instructions

1. Press "Ctrl" + "Alt" + "Delete" at the same time. Then, press the key sequence once more to command a soft reboot. If the computer is unresponsive, press and hold the power button on the computer until the computer shuts down.

2. Wait about 15 seconds, then press the power button to turn the computer back on.

3. Press "F8" before the computer boots up. This will open the "Advanced Boot Options" menu. Select "Safe Mode."

4. Let the computer load the desktop in Safe Mode. Then, go to "Start," "Shut Down."

5. Press the power button on the computer to turn the computer back on. Let the desktop boot up normally.

Tags: power button, button computer, computer back, mouse cursor, power button computer, Safe Mode

Doityourself Toilet Repair

One of the most often used rooms in the house is the bathroom, and if you have problems with the toilet, it can turn into a huge problem. If it is the only bathroom in the home, you will need to acquire some basic do-it-yourself toilet repair skills to deal with any sudden malfunction--the sooner, the better. And you needn't be reminded how messy and nauseating a malfunctioning toilet could be if not repaired in time. Relax, you don't need to call in a professional plumber for simple toilet repair jobs, because with these do-it-yourself toilet repair steps, you could repair any feature of your toilet and save money, too. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

To Repair Running Toilets

1. Move the handle to and fro. If this doesn't work, you may need to change the handle and/or chain attached to it. However, if jiggling the handle works, simply adjust the chain.

2. Inspect the ballcock. This feature consists of a vacuum-sealed, plastic ball fitted at the end of an attached metal arm. The ball floats on the surface of the water-filled filled toilet tank. If you notice the ballcock touching any parts inside the tank\ or the inner side of the tank closest to it, bend the metal arm away from the area of contact as much as is necessary.

3. Lift the ballcock away from the surface of the water to check if this stops the water from running. Bend the metal arm slightly downward if it does. This will enable the ballcock to limit the speed of water flowing into the toilet's tank.

4. Ensure that the ballcock floats efficiently on the surface of the water inside the tank. If it happens to be worn or cracked, water may seep into it and cause it to sink. In this case, you will need to replace the ballcock with a new one.

Check the condition of the metal arm attached to the ballcock, as well as the handle mechanism connected both inside and outside the tank. If one or both items happen to be worn, cracked or broken, replace them with new ones.

To Unclog Toilets

5. Remove the toilet tank's cover. Lift the ballcock to stop the inflow of water into the tank and prevent the toilet bowl from overflowing.

6. Place a plunger over the mouth of the toilet bowl drain and pump it vigorously. If you notice that the blockage has loosened, flush the toilet a few times. For fixing a stubborn blockage, follow the next step.

7. Use a suitable length of auger (steel coil) to reach into the curved pipe of the toilet until you make contact with the debris or dirt causing the clogging. Rotate the auger in a clockwise direction until its tip has penetrated the blockage. Then pull the auger out to free the toilet of the blockage. You may need to repeat this a few times until the toilet is completely free of the blockage.

To Avoid Wet Floors

8. Review all connections to detect leaks, specifically, the one that connects the water supply to the tank. If the bolts that connect the toilet bowl to the tank are loose, tighten them.

9. Check the wax ring fitted in between the floor and the bottom of the toilet, as well as the inlet/refill valves. Replace any of these items if found faulty or worn.

10. See whether the toilet tank is cracked. If cracks are detected but superficial in nature, drain and dry the water tank completely. Then use a suitable sealant to repair or fill the cracks. If this doesn't work, hire a qualified plumber to install a new tank. If the toilet bowl has cracks, it is advisable to have a new one installed.

Tags: toilet bowl, toilet tank, away from, doesn work, do-it-yourself toilet, do-it-yourself toilet repair, inside tank

Fix Up Foreclosed Houses

Though some foreclosures are fine, others are riddled with problems. The previous owners were short on cash and unable to maintain the house, and they also might have been angry and deliberately damaged the house. Whether you plan to live in the foreclosure or sell it, you will need an accurate, objective assessment of its needed repairs. Then you can prioritize and proceed to fix up the house, knowing you aren't making the mistake of choosing cosmetics over a sound structure.

Instructions

1. Hire a licensed professional home inspector; they are worth the fee they charge. Good inspectors uncover everything from faulty electrical grounds to structural issues, and they know the building codes. With an inspector's report in hand, you have an accurate list of what needs fixing immediately and what can wait, and you know what a prospective buyer's inspector will be looking at if you plan to flip the property.

2. Repair structural, plumbing and electrical issues first, because they always cause more serious issues later. Rotting sub-floors, walls that are separating from the ceiling, bulging foundation walls, listing porches that pull on the frame of the house and other problems that threaten the house's structural integrity can lead to bodily injury if something collapses on someone, can cause a buyer to lose thousands of dollars and can lead to lawsuits.

3. Replace the roof if it has less than 10 years of life left; your inspection report will give you an estimate of the roof's life. A new roof makes a good first impression and protects your investment, whether you plan to live in the house or sell it.

4. Decide whether to paint, replace or clean existing siding. Often the siding on a house is fine and needs only a wash.

5. Replace broken and non-functioning windows, and paint the trim to match the rest of the house.

6. Replace dated and worn flooring; dirty carpets lower the value of a home, and no one wants to live with them. Consider inexpensive tile in kitchens and bathrooms, or use use good quality vinyl flooring. Hardwood or laminate floors make a big splash in halls and living rooms. Wall-to-wall carpeting is also always a fast solution for living rooms and bedrooms.

7. Clean or paint kitchen cabinets, as long as they are functional. Add spiffy new hardware.

8. Replace badly dated or worn bathroom fixtures. If they are in good shape, clean them until they shine. Note that pink, green, gold and blue fixtures will look hopelessly dated no matter what you do, so replace them with simple white fixtures that won't quickly go out of style.

9. Paint the interior. Although many people think white is the best color, some buyers might pay more for a house that reflects some design sense by having coordinating fashionable colors in the living room and halls and perhaps in the master bedroom. Paint the trim and doors, if they're grubby looking.

10. Clean up the yard and fertilize it, hang shutters, plant shrubs if there are none, and add a modest- to moderately-priced new front door with a nice window to make an expensive-looking statement. The exterior of a house makes the first and most important impression. If you live in the house, you'll enjoy going home every night. If you decide to sell, it will sell more quickly if you pay attention to curb appeal.

Tags: dated worn, live house, living rooms, plan live, sell will

Great Marketing Ideas For Lenders

Lenders can capitalize on benefits to the customer in marketing materials.

Marketing is an important consideration for lenders, particularly in times of economic hardship. By implementing a continuous marketing plan, you will ensure that your business is building recognition and increasing its customer base year-round. Because competition between lenders is high, effective marketing can be the difference between securing and losing both new and current customers.

Focus on Benefits

To capture the attention and interest of potential customers, ensure that your marketing materials focus directly on benefits to the customer. Research your competitors' offers, and include items that set you apart. Your materials should allow customers to see immediately why they should go with your company instead of another lender; by stating benefits up front, you gain customers' attention and encourage them to read on for more information.

Offer Added Value

To expand your reach and establish yourself as an expert on lending, mortgage and financing options, use a blog or newspaper column to disseminate advice. In each post or column, focus on a related topic that will give value to potential customers. One article might explain the reality of interest rates, while another might focus on understanding different types of loans and financing. Link to posts from your company's website and broadcast them to followers on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites, and be sure to link back to your site.

Work Weekends

If your business uses cold calling as a marketing strategy, shift a portion of calls to the weekend. Then, when customers are less likely to be busy with work and family stress, you will have a more willing audience. The same goes for email marketing and other marketing activities: by sending messages on a Saturday or Sunday, you are more likely to reach potential customers in a relaxed and receptive state. For maximum customer convenience, you might consider extending office hours to Saturday to help customers who cannot come in during the work week.

Referrals

Referrals are one of the most powerful marketing tools, and are also the most difficult to harness. When it comes to the often painful process of choosing a lender, a personal recommendation can be the tipping point that causes a new customer to choose your organization. To ensure that your customers recognize the value you bring, be open with them about the deals you are able to secure, interest rates you negotiate, and money they save. Instruct your staff to make every customer interaction pleasant and informative, and pay attention to your physical office space. When all elements of service work together to create a positive product, customers are more likely to give referrals.

Tags: ensure that, ensure that your, potential customers, that your, benefits customer, interest rates

File A Sink Hole Claim

As with other natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods or earthquakes, a sink hole can cause extensive damage to your home. Sink holes can cause cracking in your foundation, walls and ceilings as well as render doors and windows inoperable due to structural movement. This type of damage can cause aesthetic loss to your home and possibly a dangerous situation. This article will walk you through some simple steps to better help you prepare a sink hole claim for your insurance company. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Read your insurance policy. Before you file any insurance claim, you should thoroughly understand your home insurance policy. Read through the complete policy and take notes of sections that pertain to sink hole coverage. Also, take note of your policy limits and deductibles for future reference. Make sure that you understand the procedure for filing a claim and what information is required.

2. Document the damage. Use the drawing of your home and property to highlight areas of sink hole activity or damage. Denote any cracks in foundations or walls, depressions in the yard or walkways, and any other changes in your property. Inspect your home and property thoroughly to make sure you haven't missed any damage. You may also want to check the adjoining properties for evidence of sink hole activity in the surrounding area. Take detailed notes of anything you find, including the date when you first noticed it.

3. Take pictures. Using a still camera or video camera, visually document the activity or damage. Take close-up pictures showing as much detail as you can. This visual evidence will help further document the damage to your property. If you have further damage or activity in the future, be sure to document this change and the date it occurred. Make copies of these pictures or viedo to attach to your claim.

4. File a claim. Contact your insurance agent or customer service agent, as directed in your policy. Inform them that you wish to file a claim for sink hole activity in accordance with your homeowners policy. They will ask some preliminary questions about your claim and start the paperwork. At this point, the insurance company will most likely appoint an adjuster to handle your claim. Be sure to write down the name and phone number of the adjuster.

5. Work with your adjuster to complete your claim. The adjuster assigned to your claim will typically contact you within a day or two to further discuss your claim. This person will ask numerous questions regarding the dates of activity and about the type of damage. Keep your notes and documentation in hand while talking with the adjuster. This will help you answer questions quickly and accurately. The adjuster will assign a field inspector to visit your home and make an initial appraisal of the activity.

6. Follow up on the inspection and status of your claim. At this point, various insurance companies will process claims differently. Continue to work with your adjuster to complete the processing of your claim in accordance with the company policies. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how the claim is processed and what is found. Make sure that you keep up regular communication with your adjuster so that your claim isn't given a backseat to other claims.

Tags: your claim, your home, with your, hole activity, sink hole, sink hole

Repair Scratches In Glass Tabletops

Accidents happen, and having a scratch on your glass tabletop can be an eyesore and diminish the quality of your furniture. Covering the glass tabletop with a fabric cover will reduce the chance of a scratch in the future. Depending on the weight of the item that scratched the glass and the depth of the scratch, removing the mark may require a little time and money. But don't give up on your glass tabletop without trying a few options to repair a scratch. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Apply a thin layer of nail polish to the scratch using the application brush. Allow the nail polish to dry for 5 minutes, and use nail polish remover to clean away excess polish. To remove excess polish, pour a dime-sized amount of nail polish remover on a clean cloth and wipe around the scratch.

2. Buff Brasso cleaner into the scratch. For tougher scratches, Brasso Multi-Purpose Metal Polish can reduce the appearance of the scratch. Pour three to four drops of the Brasso cleaner onto a clean cloth, and buff the scratch in a circular motion. Use a part of the cloth that doesn't have cleaner to wipe the scratched area. Repeat if the scratch remains.

3. Purchase a Janvil Glass Revive Kit. This kit is the closest you can get to professionally removing scratches without taking the tabletop to a glass specialist. The kit includes 10 items to assist you in safely removing scratches, including spray bottles, polishing disks, pads and polishing creams and buffing solution.

4. Take the tabletop to a glass specialist. If the scratch is too deep or requires intensive labor, have it repaired by a specialist to save yourself time and money. If necessary, the specialist may replace the glass.

Tags: nail polish, glass tabletop, Brasso cleaner, clean cloth, excess polish

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Refrigerator Compressor

Refrigerators with broken compressors do not stay cold.

Without a working compressor, refrigerators won't stay cold. The compressor is a type of pump that uses pistons to compress the refrigerant--the gas that chills the inside of the refrigerator. When this pump stops working, the refrigerant does too. Depending on the cause of the problem, fixing a compressor can be relatively inexpensive or quite costly. Does this Spark an idea?

Dirty Condenser

The condenser is another important part of any refrigerator. This unit removes heat from the condensed refrigerant, allowing it to expand and liquify again before passing into the compressor. When dirt and dust build up on the condenser, it can overload the compressor, causing it to cut off every few minutes. This problem can look like a faulty compressor, but is easily solved for free by dusting the coils and condenser at the back of the refrigerator.

Start Relay Problems

The start relay is an electronic device that tells the compressor when to start. When this switch goes bad, the compressor won't work properly. It may begin to make clicking noises about 2 to 5 minutes apart--a sign that the compressor is overheating. According to Refrigeration Basics, consumer appliance repair guide, replacing a bad start relay costs around $25.

Compressor Insufficient

Some refrigerators may have compressors insufficient to provide the cooling power they need, whether from poor design, age or another problem. Compressors with insufficient power tend to run continuously, but provide little to no cooling. According to All About Home (see reference 3), replacing the compressor with a more effective one costs between $500 and $700, before tax. In some cases, this cost may be higher than the value of the refrigerator.

Compressor Failure

Refrigerator compressors may also fail completely. In these cases, the refrigerator light should function correctly, but the refrigerator itself does not run. As with an insufficient compressor, replacement costs tend to run $500 to $700. Repairing the compressor is difficult and is not usually cost-effective.

Tags: start relay, stay cold, When this, with insufficient

Replace Windows In A Brick House

Replace Windows in a Brick House

Nothing can update the look of your home faster than replacing old, outdated windows. During the 1970's and 1980's, many homes were built with aluminum window frames. These frames tend to yellow and discolor over time, and can develop a buildup of dirt and grime. Additionally, they simply look out of date and old-fashioned. It is fairly simple and quick to remove these units and replace them with steel, wood, or anodized options that can bring a whole new look to your home. This project can be accomplished in just a few hours with proper tools and preparation. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the rough opening for your window. If you are replacing an old unit, keep it in place for now and measure it from side to side and top to bottom.

2. Purchase a unit window unit. You will want one that's either equal to your existing unit or 1/4 inch smaller than the rough opening both length and widthwise.

3. Remove any trim around your existing window using a pry bar, both on the inside of the home and out.

4. Unscrew the fasteners holding the unit in place, both along the top sill and the bottom. This should simply be a matter of using a screwdriver or drill to remove the fasteners that attach the window to the wall framing.

5. Lift the old unit out of the opening carefully. It is best to remove it from the outside of the home so you don't drag dust and debris into your house.

6. Slide the new window into the opening, bottom first. Make sure that it is evenly spaced along the two side jambs. If the opening is uneven, use wooden shims to level it out.

7. Screw the unit into place by placing screws in the top and bottom jambs. Use screws that are long enough to penetrate the structural framing surrounding the window.

8. Install any trim kits and caulk all joints to ensure the opening is waterproof.

Tags: Brick House, look your, look your home, Replace Windows, Replace Windows Brick, rough opening, Windows Brick

Understand A Construction Plan

Understand a Construction Plan

A construction plan is a scaled drawing showing how a project should be constructed, and what it will look like upon completion. For a small home renovation, the construction plan may consist of only a single drawing, while larger projects may require hundreds of drawings and supporting documents. Those who are not involved in the building industry often believe that the information on these plans is too difficult to decipher, but this is not usually the case. By understanding the construction plans, one is more likely to get the project completed on-time, and in accordance with their specifications.

Instructions

1. Start with the title page. This is the first sheet of the set, and shows the symbol legend as well as general notes. By knowing what the various symbols used on the drawings represent, you'll take a great deal of the mystery out of the plans and begin to understand what you're looking at. Read all the general notes and information on this page as well, because these notes will often effect all the drawings in the set.

2. Understand how the drawings are organized. For plans with multiple pages, the title sheet will be followed by the architectural drawings, then the mechanical and electrical plans. The architectural section provides information on walls, flooring, and basic building elements that are fairly easy to interpret. While most information on the mechanical and electrical plans can be understood, it is easier to view this information once you are familiar with the architectural elements. A single page construction plan will show all of these components on one sheet, but you can still review it easily by focusing first on the architectural components in Steps 3 and 4.

3. Review the floor plans. These are the first few pages of the architectural set. They show the basic shape of the building, along with the location of the walls. Often, dimensions are given to show the length and width of various walls and rooms. If no dimensions are shown, refer to the drawing's scale. This is often shown at the bottom of the page as 1/8th scale. This means that every 1/8" inch is equal to 1 foot of living space.

4. Examine the elevations. These show what the interior and exterior walls of the building will look like from top to bottom, and are some of the easiest drawings for novices to understand. They will often show the location of doors, windows, cabinets, and other furniture. Use dimensions on the plans or drawing scale to understand the size and location of various elements.

5. Check for a finish plan. This drawing shows the finish materials that will be used throughout the building. It includes flooring, paint, ceilings, and exterior cladding. If this information is not shown on the plans, it should be presented to the homeowner early on in the project for review. Finish selections that are not recorded on the building plans should be shown in writing on some form of support document.

6. Review the mechanical drawings. While more complicated systems may be fairly difficult to understand, basic elements can easily be reviewed. Look for locations of major equipment, such as hot water heaters and air conditioners, and make sure these are in satisfactory locations. Duct work will be shown as a round or rectangular shape running from the heating and cooling to locations throughout the house. The spot where each of these ducts passes into a room shows where air will be blown into the room. Mechanical plans also show the location of sinks, showers, and other fixtures, as well as the path plumbing lines will take to those fixtures.

7. Examine electrical drawings. All power will originate at the main electrical panel. Wires shown running from the panel will connect to various electrical items in the building. The numbers shown next to these wires indicate which breaker or circuit it is connected to. Using the symbols legend, you can determine where receptacles, light switches, and lights will be placed.

8. Read supplementary documents. On small projects, this may simply be the contractor's proposal or contract. It will often contain details not shown on the plans, including schedule, materials, or construction terms. In the majority of projects, the contract is considered to be part of the plans, so it should be read carefully, even for homeowners who know and trust their builder. With larger projects, check for specifications or supplementary documents. These elements are as much a part of the plans as any drawing, and are easy for most people to understand.

Tags: construction plan, plans should, will often, drawing scale, electrical plans, general notes, into room

Repair Drywall Edges

If a corner in your home has been damaged, you need to replace those damaged drywall edges. The process for replacing damaged drywall along edges, such as corners, requires removing the damaged section, adding a new corner support, new drywall and compound. Once you've rebuilt the damaged area, you can then prime and paint. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the damaged area and mark with a pencil, including an additional 2 inches to each side and to the top and bottom as well. Score the marked area with a razor knife. This prevents further damage to any area beyond the marked area.

2. Slice into the metal corner bead at the marks above and below the damaged area. Using a hacksaw, slice across the metal corner bead so you can separate it from the wall. This bead is the corner support.

3. Using a pry bar, remove the bead from the wall. Place the bar alongside a nail head and carefully pull the corner metal bead away from the wall and remove it.

4. Using a razor knife, smooth out the roughened edges of the exposed drywall. Do not remove any drywall from around the damaged area. You only want to remove loose debris and smooth the edges.

5. Use metal snips to cut a new piece of bead from a new piece of metal corner bead. Metal corner bead is available at local home improvement stores, usually in 8-foot lengths.

6. Line up the new length of metal corner bead with the existing, undamaged bead in the wall. Secure the new bead to the existing drywall with 1-5/8-inch drywall screws or 2-inch drywall nails.

7. Apply joint compound to the damaged area, covering the new metal corner bead and the surrounding drywall. Apply using a 4-inch drywall knife. Lightly sand the surface of the compound with medium-grit sandpaper after it has dried.

8. Apply a second coat of compound, let dry and sand. A third coat of compound should be applied as well and smoothed to run flush with the existing drywall. Sand the third coat after it has dried.

9. Prime the repaired drywall area with a quality primer. Paint with the color of choice and let dry.

Tags: corner bead, damaged area, metal corner bead, metal corner, from wall, after dried, area with

Historic Home Renovation Grants

Historic homes are high maintenance.

Historic homes educate us about past architectural techniques, give us insight into put building materials to use and help us understand how people lived in another era. These homes are expensive to keep up, however. Plumbing and wiring often need to be replaced. Foundations and upper floors often need extensive repair, and to do all of this without damaging fragile interior details can be very difficult. Many historically valuable structures fall into disrepair because the owners cannot afford to update and maintain them. The National Trust for Historic Preservation administers several grant programs that can assist with the cost of renovating an historic home. Does this Spark an idea?

Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation

The Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation offers matching grants for preservation and renovation of historic buildings. The grants are for projects that seek to "recapture an authentic sense of place." Although these grants are primarily aimed at non-profit organizations and public agencies, individuals are welcome to apply if their project involves a nationally recognized historic landmark. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 and can be put toward professional construction and consulting services, as well as educational materials about the property.

Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation

National Trust for Historic Preservation

1785 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20036-2117

202-588-6000

preservationnation.org

Preservation Services Fund Grants

These matching grants range from $500 to $5,000 and are to assist with the cost of preserving historic structures and homes and developing educational materials about the project. Funds can be used for services related to authentic preservation such as hiring consultants to plan a project properly. There are two opportunities to apply for these grants each year. After you fill out your application, use the guide included to locate your closest regional office of the National Trust for Preservation.

National Trust Preservation Funds

National Trust for Historic Preservation

1785 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20036-2117

202-588-6000

preservationnation.org

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors

Nonprofits and community groups can apply for these grants, which typically run between $2,500 to $10,000. The funding is intended to assist with the preservation and restoration of historic interiors and education materials about the site.

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors

National Trust for Historic Preservation

1785 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20036-2117

202-588-6000

preservationnation.org

Tags: Historic Preservation, National Trust, Fund Historic, National Trust Historic, Trust Historic, Trust Historic Preservation

Tips To Remove Dents From Cars

There are several ways to remove dents from cars, but anyone trying these methods should know the basics in this article before starting. From small dents that can be done with no painting at all, to dents requiring sanding and painting of the entire area, here are a few tips that can help you get your car smooth again.

Paintless Dent Removal

For removing a dent without having to repaint, it you have to inspect it first. If there are any chips or cracks or any paint missing at all, then the dent cannot be repaired without painting. Even the smallest area of bare metal that is exposed to the air can become rusted.

If the dent has no rust, you can attempt to remove it without painting it. Start by using a household plunger. Wet the dent with water and a small amount of liquid dish detergent to make it slippery. Place the plunger in the center and press it to create a suction to the side of the car. Pull the plunger to pop the dent into place. Pull with as much force as needed to get the dent out. This method can work on many dents, but won't always repair all dents.

Dent Repair from the Inside

Before removing a dent, see if you can get on the back side of it. If the dent is on a front fender, lift the car with a jack and jack stands to remove the plastic liner in the wheel well. If the dent is on a door, remove the door panel inside the car. Dents on the rear of the car can sometimes be reached by opening the trunk and removing the carpet lining. If you can't get to the back side of the dent, it can still be repaired but will need more body filler than a dent that can be reached.

Use a metal dolly and body hammer to gently tap the dent out into place. Place the dolly against the metal on the back side of the dent and tap it with the hammer where needed. The dolly is flat on one side and slightly curved on the other, so use the side that corresponds with the shape you need for the dent. Most often, the curved side should be placed against the car and the hammer tapped against the flat side. This gently puts the sheet metal back into place. Many times, this method can get the metal back into shape without the use of body filler. If there are chips or cracks in the paint, the area will need to be painted.

Large Dents

Large dents or dents in areas that cannot be reached from the back side must be repaired using a dent puller. Dent pullers are available in different sizes at almost any auto parts store. For a medium- to large-sized dent, buy the largest-sized dent puller.

Drill small holes in the dent, scattering the holes around near the edges of the inside of the dent and near the center. You can add more holes if they are needed once you start shaping the metal. Place the tip of the dent puller into a hole and screw it in like a screw. Hold the sliding weight on the dent puller close to the car and quickly pull it back toward your body. This pulls the metal out each time you pull on the dent puller. Use as much or as little force as necessary. Move the dent puller to different holes as you slowly pull the dent into place. The dent puller will never get the dent flat again, so further repair is necessary.

Grind the paint away from the dented area. Apply body filler, like Bondo, on the metal with a plastic squeegee. Allow the filler to dry for an hour and sand it smooth with 80 grit sandpaper. The dent should now be gone and ready for refinishing.

Tags: dent puller, back side, into place, back side dent, body filler

Use Epoxy To Repair Corian

Corian is a strong, durable material that's hard to damage unless you really abuse it. Small scratches and burns can be sanded out easily and will be virtually undetectable afterward. Large cracks and holes may have to be repaired with new pieces of Corian, and for that you should consult an experienced Corian craftsman. However, small cracks and holes can be filled in with color-matching epoxy and sanded to make the Corian look almost like new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Purchase a two-part epoxy seam sealer. This comes in a variety of colors, so you should be able to find one that closely matches your Corian.

2. Put on your safety glasses or safety goggles, as well as a pair of latex gloves.

3. Dip several cotton swabs in hydrogen peroxide. Use these swabs to clean around the crack or the hole and as far into it as you can reach. This will kill any bacteria living in and around the damaged area.

4. Wipe the damaged area with a damp cloth everywhere that you cleaned it to remove any extra peroxide.

5. Fit an orbital sander with a fine 220-grit disc. Sand lightly over the damaged area until all of the raised and/or sharp areas have been eliminated. Wipe away any debris that is created.

6. Empty both tubes of the epoxy seam sealer onto a white paper plate or a piece of white cardboard. Place the contents close to each other on the plate, but not on top of each other.

7. Use a natural wooden craft stick to slowly combine the two different solutions until the epoxy is well mixed. Use the stick to pick up some of the prepared epoxy and fill the hole or crack as much as possible. Apply epoxy to the surface of the Corian with the edge of the stick to cover the damaged area.

8. Smooth the surface of the epoxy as much as possible with the craft stick. Do not attempt to remove any excess epoxy at this time. Allow the epoxy seam sealer to dry thoroughly.

9. Use a new 220-grit disc in the orbital sander to sand over the epoxy patch. Move evenly from one side to the other. Replace the 220-grit disc with a 300-grit disc and sand the epoxy once more.

10. Use a damp cloth to wipe the Corian clean and check the epoxy patch. If the surface is rough or epoxy is still built up higher than the surface of the Corian, place a 400-grit disc in the orbital sander and sand the surface once or twice more.

11. Wipe down the countertop well to remove all of the sanding dust and epoxy debris before using it.

Tags: damaged area, 220-grit disc, epoxy seam, epoxy seam sealer, orbital sander

Cypress Texas Area Mobile Home Parks

Finding the perfect mobile home park should not be taken lightly. Living in a mobile home park is just like living in a neighborhood. You will want to check out a variety of different parks and find one that meets your needs and the needs of your family before choosing which park to reside in. There are several mobile home park options in the Cypress, Texas, area.

Cypress Village

Cypress Village is a family-friendly mobile home park located in the heart of Cypress. Water, electric, trash and sewer fees are included in the monthly rent. Residents may as many dogs and cats as they can care for and are allowed to install a fence on their properties, making this one of the few truly pet-friendly mobile home parks in the Cypress area.

A playground is located in the center of the park for children to play on. The playground is located next to the recreation center, which houses an air hockey table, billiards table and a variety of activities, including weekly ice cream socials.

Cypress Village

13514 Huffmeister Road

Cypress, TX 77429

(281) 256-2205

Sugarberry Place

Sugarberry Place is located in Tomball, approximately 20 minutes by car from Cypress. The mobile home park features a barbecue area, basketball court and heated pool and spa for its residents to enjoy. Unlimited use of these facilities, in addition to water and trash and sewer fees are included in the monthly rent.

People of all ages are welcomed at Sugarberry Place, though families with children are especially accommodated with pool parties for the children during the summer and weekly arts and crafts or games for children.

Sugarberry Place

9850 Boudreaux Road

Tomball, TX 77375

(281) 655-0753

Carrol Mobile Home Park

Carrol Mobile Home Park is located in Tomball, approximately a 20-minute drive from Cypress. On-site laundry facilities are available for residents to use during regular business hours. Electricity, trash and sewer fees and water are included in the monthly rent.

A fitness room and community clubhouse are available for the residents to use. Residents of all ages are invited to the mobile home park, though senior citizens are especially accommodated with weekly bingo nights, water aerobics classes offered two mornings a week and daily van transportation to the local senior center.

Carrol Mobile Home Park

1402 South Cherry Street

Tomball, TX 77375

(281) 351-0244

Tags: home park, Sugarberry Place, Carrol Mobile, Carrol Mobile Home, Cypress Village, Home Park, included monthly

Repair Large Drywall

Large area drywall repairs require replacing the damaged area.

Large areas of drywall are usually only problematic in that 1/2-inch 4- by 8-foot wall sheets weigh 50 pounds, and 5/8-inch ceiling sheets weigh 75 pounds. Scrapes or holes can be covered with mesh tape and compound applied over the top, but if holes are bigger than thumb-size, or scrapes are wider than two inches, generally it is best to replace the drywall. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. First, measure the entire damaged drywall; if it is bigger than an 8- by 4-foot area, more than one piece of drywall will be needed. Run a stud finder against the drywall and mark the center of the studs/ceiling joists on both sides of the damage. Then run pencil marks along the drywall where the centers of the studs exist; this will result in two parallel lines. Now join the two lines at the top and bottom of the damaged area with two more pencil lines, at least 6 inches above and below the damage--you will now have either a square or oblong penciled area.

2. Put on safety goggles or other eye protection. Run a tradesman's knife several times over all the pencil lines, until the drywall is completely cut through. Using a hammer, carefully knock out the damaged area--you will probably need to work on small sections at a time. Then remove any nails/screws that are still stuck into the bare studs/ceiling joists.

3. Measure the hole you now have in the drywall, and cut a new piece of drywall to that size--use the tradesman's knife and a drywall saw to cut it out of the new sheet. Now place the new piece in the hole, and use 1 5/8-inch drywall nails to nail it to the walls studs, or 1 5/8-inch drywall screws for the ceiling--install the nails/screws 8 inches apart. If the piece is very large--such as an entire 4- by 8-foot sheet, cut it in half and install one piece, and then the other.

4. Apply mesh tape over all drywall joints. Now pour some drywall compound into a drywall tray, and using a 6-inch drywall knife, apply a layer of compound over all the mesh tape and nail/screw heads. Feather the compound away from the tape--in other words, smear compound past the edge of the tape onto the drywall, making the compound layer thinner as you go. This will help disguise that the compound on the mesh tape is thicker than on the surrounding area.

5. Wait for the compound to dry overnight. Then sand all the dried compound, making the areas smooth and free of ridges--use fine sandpaper. If you can still see screw/nail heads or mesh tape, apply another layer of compound, wait for it to dry, and sand a second time. The area is now ready to prime and paint.

Tags: mesh tape, 8-inch drywall, bigger than, ceiling joists, damaged area

Replace The Plumbing In A Rv

Aviod RV plumbing repair while camping.

Replacing the plumbing in an RV is very similar to replacing the plumbing in a standard residential home. It's just a matter of removing the old parts and putting in the new. Replacement parts do not need to be RV-specific parts. Standard PEX plumbing pipe used in residential homes substitutes well for incoming supply lines whether hot or cold. Drain pipes can be standard PVC pipes used in residential plumbing. The only differences are the input will be to a fresh water tank and the outputs will be to two separate holding tanks with special adapters for connections. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the motor home. Empty the fresh water tank, black water tank and grey water tank.

2. Disconnect the supply line from the sink, toilet or shower. Cut the pipe near the end to remove any connections. Look underneath the home and locate the other end of the pipe and any couplings in the line. Cut the other end of the pipe at the nearest coupling or tank entrance. Pull on the pipe to make it slide a little to check that it slides freely. Leave an end sticking up and tape securely to the end of the new PEX pipe. Pull the old pipe with the new pipe securely attached. Keep pulling until the new pipe appears at the coupling or other end of the pipe. Remove the tape and attach new connections with adapters.

3. Disconnect the drain pipe from the fixture. Saw the pipe in half at the connector locations or anywhere along the pipe that will ease the removal. Remove the pieces and replace with standard residential PVC pipe and fittings. Use primer and glue to attach couplings at the various locations. Secure the pipes maintaining the proper drain slope to the motor home with nylon cable ties.

Tags: water tank, other pipe, fresh water, fresh water tank, motor home

Calculate Building Materials

public domain

When figuring a job for construction, a few formulas will help you complete a successful project. With a little practice, you will be an ace at building material calculations. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Calculate Building Materials

1. Calculate the concrete. Most building projects that begin from the ground up must start with concrete. Multiply the length by width by height of the base, then divide that number by 27. This will tell you the needed concrete in cubic yards.

2. Calculate the 2-by-4 lumber for framing walls. Convert the entire length of the wall being constructed into inches (feet multiplied by 12). Now, divide the length in inches by 16. This will give you the number of 2-by-4s needed for one wall.

3. Calculate wall sheathing. Multiply the length of the wall by height to get the square feet of the wall surface. Since most sheathing (plywood, drywall, paneling) comes in 4-by-8-foot sheets, take the square feet of one sheet (32) and use it to divide the square feet of the wall. This will equal the number of 4-by-8 sheets to cover the wall.

4. Calculate framing and decking for a roof. Divide the entire length of the roof by 2 feet to find out how many rafters you'll need to frame the roof. For the decking, multiply the length by the width of the roof, convert to inches and divide by 32, the square feet of one sheet of plywood. This will equal the number of plywood sheets you'll need.

5. Calculate shingles or other roofing material. Three bundles of shingles equal one square of shingles. One square of shingles equals 100 square feet. So multiply the length by the width of the roof and divide that number by 100. This will give you the amount of material in squares needed for roofing. To convert into bundles, multiply that number by three.

Tags: square feet, This will, length width, that number, Building Materials

What Type Of Electrical Wiring Is Best

When dealing with wiring a house for a new construction start, or rewiring an existing home that has an old or out-of-code wiring issue, the question often comes up as to what electrical wire is the best to use for these applications. Of course you will need to select the wiring that is specified by the code that you are required to follow, depending on the exact application that you are wiring for. In general, though, the best wiring that you can use for an electrical application is solid copper wire for your home or office. There are a number of different reasons why solid copper wire is the best for all-purpose wiring applications. Does this Spark an idea?

Universal Acceptance of Copper

In the 1930s and later, there was a tendency throughout the country to use aluminum or galvanized steel wiring, which would later cause problems when it aged and became brittle, and then would arc or spark and have the potential to cause fires. Many areas of the country still have homes with aluminum wiring in them, although it is prohibited by code from use in new construction or retrofit applications. Solid copper wire is not prohibited by code and is excellent for any electrical application.

Less Breakdowns

Copper wiring stretches much better than the aluminum or galvanized wire. This makes installation easier. Further, the structure and framing of a home can experience slight variations over time as wood expands and contracts and as the house "settles." These shifts can be imperceptible, but it is still best for wiring to have some "give." Copper's flexibility means that it will not break down from repeated use and cause shortages within the wall or within electrical outlets.

Lesser Oxidization Issues

Copper wire is also much more resistant to surface oxidization that is a problem with aluminum electrical wiring, and as a result, copper wiring will not have oxidization issues like aluminum or other types of wiring over time.

Ease of Installation

Most people who are handy or who have experience in the electrical field can safely and easily install copper wiring, whereas other types of wiring may be difficult to install or they may have problems working with the non-copper wiring.

Safer Overloading

Copper will not break if it is overloaded. This means a copper wiring system can safely withstand an overloading situation, making it safer for use in residential applications.

Tags: copper wire, copper wiring, aluminum galvanized, best wiring, electrical application, other types, other types wiring

Housing Repair Grants

Many types of housing repair grants are available for low-income residents of the United States. Grant funds do not have to be repaid and you don't need a good credit score to qualify for a housing repair grant. Depending on the grant-funding source, you may need nonprofit status. However, there are housing repair grants available for very low-income residents of the United States.

Department of Housing and Urban Development

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has grant funds available for emergency repairs to multifamily dwellings that are occupied by senior citizens of the United States.

Individuals are not eligible for these particular grant funds. You must be a private nonprofit organization that owns multifamily dwellings in need of emergency repairs. An example of the type of repairs covered in this grant would be roof repairs, emergency plumbing and electrical repairs.

Kings County Housing Repair Grants

Kings County is located in Washington State and provides grant funds for housing repair to low-income wage earners. Low-income homeowners and low-income renters are eligible for these grant funds.

These housing repair grant funds are available for quality-of-life repairs and improvements. Low-income homeowners and low-income renters can apply for these grant funds to repair or replace roofs, install new septic tank systems or to make a residence wheelchair accessible. Kings County will send a representative grant fund applicants to your home for assessment.

ReNEW Nonprofit Housing Repair Grant I

The ReNEW Nonprofit Housing Repair Grant I program has been established to fund community-based, faith-based and grassroots organizations. Eligibility requirements are that the organization that is awarded the grant funds must supply the labor for the housing repairs. This program will fund the materials for housing repairs only.

These grant funds are available to repair single-family dwellings only in an area that is currently experiencing a high foreclosure rate.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Housing Repair Grants

Grant funds are available through The Rural Housing Repair Grants program. Homeowners must be very low-income wage earners and the grants must be used to make repairs, improvements or to modernize, single-family dwellings.

Grant recipients must be 62 years or older to qualify. Very low-income has been defined as lower than 50 percent of the median income of the community where the applicant resides.

Grant Application Deadlines

All grant programs have a documented cut-off date or deadline when grant applications will no longer be accepted. However, housing assistance programs for Veterans and U.S. Citizens with disabilities allocate grant funds for housing repairs annually. This means that even if you miss the cut-off date for the current year funding, you may apply for funding for the upcoming year.

Tags: grant funds, funds available, grant funds, Housing Repair Grants, housing repairs

Buy Foreclosed Homes In Delaware

The previous owner of a foreclosure defaulted on the loan, for various reasons, allowing the home to revert back to the lender. According to MSN Money, investing in foreclosures and cheap residential real estate is a wise decision, regardless of whether you plan to live there or use them as investments.

Locate Foreclosures

Locate foreclosures for sale in Delaware by searching listings online and to locate a Realtor in your area to help assist in locating foreclosures. A Realtor has access to Housing and Urban Development foreclosures, as well as other company's listings.

Inspecting

Visit the foreclosed homes in Delaware you are interested in purchasing. View the inside and outside of the homes and assess the damage. Since most foreclosure companies do not provide repairs, make a list of the repairs or updates needed and add them into the cost.

Financing

Contact a mortgage broker in Delaware. Review a list of brokers online at Delaware Mortgage Broker Directory. Go to local banks in Delaware and ask for information about financing foreclosures. For example, if you live in the New Castle area, consider visiting New Castle County Delaware Employees Federal Credit Union. Banks and credit unions offer in-house financing that allows them to offer loans that mortgage brokers may not be able to finance because of underwriting regulations.

Closing

Submit an offer. Since most mortgage companies in Delaware list foreclosures through outside sources, use the method required for the mortgage company to receive the offer. Include a copy of your pre-approval letter. Have the proper inspections done and purchase an insurance policy to cover the foreclosed home.

Tags: Since most

Fix Scratched Granite Tile

One of the best things about granite tile is its durability. Highly resistant to heat and scratching, one of its major selling points is that it's nearly impervious to damage --- nearly being the key word. Granite can be chipped or scratched, and repairing it yourself is a delicate matter, although it can be done. By working cautiously you may be able to save yourself a large repair bill and get your granite tile looking as good as new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spray granite cleaner on tile and allow to soak for five minutes. Scrub with a clean polishing cloth until dry.

2. Buff minor surface scratches in your granite away with dry #0000 steel wool. Holding the steel wool in one hand, press it firmly against the tile and rotate it in a circular motion. Clean with granite cleaner once the scratch has been removed to clear away any residue from the steel wool.

3. If the scratch is deep enough that the color is absent from the tile, take a matching paint pen and color in the scratch. Remove any excess paint with denatured alcohol.

4. If the scratch disappears from the granite tile when wet, apply stone color enhancer to the scratch with a cotton swab.

Tags: granite tile, steel wool, granite cleaner, your granite

Fix A Flat Screen That'S Been Struck By Lightning

Unplug all electronics during a lightning storm.

Fixing a flat screen that has been struck by lightning is not a common problem. The type of repair will depend on where the unit was struck and what was damaged. More likely, the home the flat screen was housed in was struck by lightning, causing a power surge and frying the power supply. If this is the case, then the power supply needs to be replaced. Always check the cost of buying a used TV of the same model over the cost of the replacement part. It may be more economical to buy a replacement TV rather than the part.

Instructions

1. Examine the TV. See where lightning struck it. Did the lightning strike only superficially damage the case, or has it damaged components as well?

2. Plug in the TV and try to get it to work. See if any of the components work. For example, maybe there is sound but not picture. Unplug the TV before working on it.

3. Remove the casing for the TV and replace any damaged components. The back and undersides of the TV will have screws that keep the casing on. Unscrew them and the casing should pop off. The exact placements of the screws will vary by model. For example, if lightning hit the screen, then replace that. Replacement parts can be found at a TV repair shop.

4. Replace the power supply if the home was struck by lightning, but not the TV. The power supply is the unit that connects the power cord to the TV. Most power supplies have a fail-safe to prevent a surge from damaging other components. However, this usually means the power supply takes the brunt of the damage. Power supplies can run between $50 and $200, depending on the model. The power supply is an independent unit, and the power cord connects right to it. Unscrew it from the housing and disconnect all the wires connected to it after you have labeled the wires. This will make installing the new power supply easier.

5. Screw in the new power supply. Connect all the wires that were disconnected from the old one. Replace the TV's housing and test out the unit.

Tags: power supply, struck lightning, damaged components, flat screen, power cord

Run An Appliance Repair Business

You can make a good living running an appliance repair business, earning $20 an hour or more. First, however, you must be able to do repairs, inspections, and estimates. These skills are vital to the success of your business.

Instructions

1. Take care of the paperwork first. Visit your local city or county office and apply for a license or a permit to run an appliance repair business. Log onto GovSpot.com and apply for your state's Department of Revenue tax ID number. Call (800) 429-4833 and apply for your federal tax ID number. Buy insurance from a company like The Hartford (www.thehartford.com).

2. Join the National Appliance Service Association. It will lend your business some credibility. Check out their resources at www.nasal.org or call (765) 453-1820 for additional information. As a member, you will have access to materials, supplies, and other members who may be able to help you generate more business.

3. Determine what types and brands of appliances you want to repair. Volunteer to work for an appliance repair business in your area to learn the business. Gain skills by taking courses in repairing appliances.

4. Work from home to reduce expenses. Visit your local print shop and order business cards and flyers to advertise your business. You can also sign up for a free website at Weebly.com.

5. Carefully plan each work day by reviewing new models and new appliances and how they work. Review each work order and decide if you can do the repair. Call the customer and quote him a price for the repair. If they agree to your terms and price, visit their residence and repair the appliance, then collect the fee.

Tags: appliance repair business, repair business, your business, appliance repair, apply your, each work, Visit your

Repair Ac Power Adapters

Use electrical tape to repair the AC power adapater.

When an AC power adapter stops working, it can mean that the device that it's powering is out of commission. Fixing the AC power adapter can be a cheaper alternative to replacing it. Also, sometimes finding a replacement can take a few days, so fixing the adapter at home can be quicker. Repairing the AC adapter isn't always possible, but trying to make repairs at home is a good first step to take when the adapter stops working.

Instructions

1. Unplug the adapter from the wall and from the device. Cut the power cord about an inch from the adapter, using a sharp knife.

2. Open the AC adapter casing using a hammer and screwdriver. The case is glued shut and can be difficult to open. Use the hammer to bang on the screwdriver and loosen the glue. Remove the case.

3. Strip the plastic outer casing off the power cord with wire strippers. Be careful not to cut through to the ground wire. Separate the ground wires and strip the inner cable.

4. Strip the end of the cord coming from the adapter.

5. Splice the cords together by winding the exposed wires. Seal the plastic adapter box around the cords, using electrical tape.

Tags: adapter stops, adapter stops working, electrical tape, from adapter, power adapter, power cord, stops working

Fix Roof Damage On A Mobile Home

Mobile homes offer a cost-friendly, ready to go home. They are also one of the easiest homes to maintain. The roof of a mobile home is susceptible to damage from falling, or windblown, debris. The thin metal over your ceiling can be pierced by any number of objects. This damage can be repaired with a few tools, a couple of materials and some know-how. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay the corrugate aluminum sheet over the damaged area. Center the damage under the sheet. Have the ends of the sheet facing the sides of the mobile home. Use your tin snips to cut away any spaces for protrusions, such as skylights, in the roof.

2. Drill a hole every 6 inches along the ends and sides of the sheet of aluminum. Hold the drill at a 90-degree angle to the sheet and bore through the sheet and the existing roof. Be careful not to plunge too deeply and compromise the wiring or ceiling beneath.

3. Install a rivet into each hole. Slide the stem of the rivet into the barrel of the rivet gun and squeeze it gently to hold the rivet in place. Push the head of the rivet through your holes in the sheet and roof. Squeeze the gun firmly to close the rivet and break off the disposable stem.

4. Seal any large gaps in the corrugation. Open the lid of your expansion foam. Twist on the stem onto the nozzle on the can. Shake the can. Hold it upside down with the stem in the gap and squeeze the trigger. It only takes a little for each gap, as the foam expands rapidly to fill any voids.

5. Seal your seams. Cut the tip of your caulk tube and puncture the diaphragm inside with the puncture tool on your caulk gun. Slide the tube into the gun and pump the trigger until tight. Point the tip of the tube at the seam and squeeze the trigger while pulling the gun to form a smooth bead that covers the seam.

Tags: mobile home, rivet into, squeeze trigger, your caulk

Learn Basic Plumbing Skills

Plumbing repairs require special tools and knowledge.

The cost of having an experienced, professional plumber make plumbing repairs in your home may be prohibitive. But with a little training in basic plumbing skills and the right tools, you can repair a leaking basement pipe, a dripping sink, or a toilet that won't flush. If you have mechanical aptitude and a willingness to keep trying until you master a skill, you can do your own plumbing repairs and save hundreds of dollars a year. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Instructions

1. Purchase plumbing tools. There a few tools that are used routinely in plumbing repairs such as a basin wrench, an adjustable wrench, a pipe wrench, a plunger, a plumber's snake, a hacksaw, tongue-and-groove pliers, a metal file, and a propane torch. You can buy these tools in an pre-packaged kit either online or at your local home improvement store.

2. Take a course. Enroll in an adult education course in basic plumbing repair. Evening classes are frequently offered in practical skills such as plumbing so working adults can attend. You can even find specialized plumbing repair courses for women or for seniors on a fixed income who are trying to save money during retirement. These courses usually span a few weeks with class sessions held 1-2 times per week. They are affordable and can be fun to take with other adult students.

Many online courses that teach basic plumbing skills are also available, and they provide instructional videos that show step by step make a repair. If you have time constraints or transportation problems, consider taking an online plumbing course.

Another option is to check with your local technical school. Technical schools may offer basic courses in many of the fields in which they train full-time students.

If none of these is available in your area, then learn from a master. For example, if you know someone who is good at home maintenance projects, ask if you can look over his shoulder while he works. Take notes during the project and follow up with questions at the end.

3. Practice your new skills. Dive in and try a few plumbing jobs. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Plumbing is a skill where the techniques learned in each and every experience slowly add up to lead to mastery.

Tags: plumbing repairs, basic plumbing, basic plumbing skills, plumbing repair, your local

Grow Citrus Trees In Houston

Citrus trees can grow in Houston, Texas, if provided winter protection.

Growing citrus trees is no longer limited to extreme southern Texas, where the temperatures are warm year-round. Several varieties of citrus trees grow well in the Houston area, even as freezing temperatures are not uncommon in the winter months. Plant citrus trees on the south side of a home or building, as this provides more protection and is warmer for the trees. Choose a location that has a minimum distance of 8 feet from buildings or driveways and does not have overhead power lines that limit height. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select a citrus tree planting area that has a nutrient-rich soil that drains well and receives a minimum of six hours of bright sunlight each day. Test the soil pH prior to planting to make sure it is 6.0 to 8.0. Add ground rock sulfur to lower the soil pH or limestone to raise the pH. Work the amendments to a depth of 8 to 10 inches.

2. Amend the soil prior to planting by working 2 to 3 inches of organic compost into the planting area to loosen the clay soil found in the Houston area. Amend the soil removed from the planting hole by mixing it with equal portions of organic compost prior to packing around the root ball.

3. Provide supplemental water to the citrus trees when the weekly rainfall amounts are less than 1 inch during periods of dry weather or drought. Apply water as a deep soaking to moisten the soil to a depth of 10 to 14 inches.

4. Fertilize the citrus trees each month during the spring and summer growing season with a high-nitrogen fertilizer in granular form. Soil in the Houston area tends to be low in nitrogen. Obtain accurate fertilizer application rates by contacting your county university extension office for a complete soil analysis.

5. Place a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch over the root ball of your citrus tree to prevent weed growth and increase soil moisture retention. Keep the mulch 6 inches from the trunk of the tree to prevent bark and trunk damage.

6. Prune citrus trees each spring by removing dead and damaged branches. Remove sucker shoots that grow out of the ground around the base of the tree or on the trunk below the first set of main branches.

7. Winter-protect the citrus trees by building a soil bank around the trunk of the citrus tree in late November, when cold temperatures occur in the Houston area. Create the bank by placing soil around the trunk up to the first set of branches. Remove the soil by carefully brushing it from the trunk in early spring.

Tags: citrus trees, Houston area, citrus tree, Amend soil, around trunk, branches Remove, citrus trees each

Replace A Waterdamaged Subfloor

Once the wooden floor of your home or building becomes damaged by water, it is imperative that you remove the water-damaged area as soon as possible to prevent the onset of mold and fungus. This not only includes the subfloor but also any adjacent areas such as the floor joists or house frame. In most cases, removing the finish flooring will also be necessary. In the following article you will find some helpful guidelines explaining deal with the problem. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Replace a Water Damaged Subfloor

1. Tear away the finish floor to get to the subfloor. Unfortunately, this step is unavoidable. Save whatever pieces you can, but it is highly likely that if the subfloor is water damaged, then the main floor will also be in bad shape. Use pry bars and flat bars to pull loose the old boards or whatever floor covering you might have.

2. Tear away the water-logged subfloor. In many cases this task will proceed quite quickly due to the deteriorated condition of the plywood or particle board that is usually used for a subfloor.

3. Tear out the good part of any sheet of plywood or particle board that has been partially damaged by the water. This will take more patience and much use of the flat pry bar and the cat's paw, which is a pry tool specifically designed for pulling up nails. By taking out the whole sheet, instead of just the damaged area, the reinstallation becomes much easier.

4. Cut out partial pieces of the flooring with a circular saw that is fitted with a carbon-tipped blade. This may be necessary if the sheet of plywood continues underneath a wall. Then you will need to cut the plywood along the center of a joist. Use safety glasses or a clear face mask when you do this. A better alternative is to make your cut right next to the existing floor joist, where there are no nails. Then you can add a 2-by-4 to the side of the joist. This way you will avoid running your saw blade through any metal nails, which is a very dangerous procedure and should be avoided if at all possible.

5. Replace any water-damaged floor joists. Sometimes the bad part of the joist can be cut away and then splices can be applied to both sides. You can do the cutting with a reciprocal saw. Other times the whole joists may have to be replaced.

6. Pull out all loose nails from the exposed floor joists and prepare to add new plywood. This may require additional blocking with 2-by-4's. Nail any 2-by-4 with galvanized framing nails (#12 or #16 ) and you can paint any potential trouble spots with a sealer or creosote.

7. Cut and fit the plywood into place. You can replace particle board with plywood if the thickness is the same. Make sure the plywood is the same thickness as the old subfloor and use 2-by-4 blocking to shore up the old frame, if necessary. If you are replacing tongue-and-groove plywood subflooring, just cut out any exposed tongues with a wood chisel and cut the new plywood to fit snugly. Only if the damaged area is extensive should you concern yourself with using replacement tongue-and-groove plywood. Use #6 or #8 galvanized floor nails to secure the plywood to the joists.

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Fix Or Repair A Leach Field

Household waste-water flows through drainpipes into a sewer pipe to the septic tank. Once solids sink to the bottom of the septic tank and form a sludge layer, liquid then exits through a pipeline out to the leach field. The water soaks through the gravel bed of the leach field where it is absorbed. If effluent cannot penetrate through the soil, a leach field will fail and sewage waste will back up in the septic tank and eventually into your home. The problem then becomes restore flow to the leach field. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decrease the load on the leach field. Take steps to conserve water until the septic system is restored. Inspect plumbing inside the home and repair any dripping faucets or leaky toilets. Wash only full loads of laundry and take short showers. A practical preventive measure is to increase capacity of the leach field to meet current use of the septic system.

2. Put less waste into the septic tank. Do not use the garbage disposal; compost food scraps instead. Do not flush tissues, paper towels or kitty litter down the toilet. Use only biodegradable toilet tissue.

3. Keep the soil near the leach field from getting too wet. The goal is to prevent groundwater from building up under a leach field. A leach field should be located in an area where the groundwater is not too high. Avoid planting a vegetable garden over a drain field. Irrigating the soil located near or over a leach field adds extra water and can interfere with evaporation of effluent. It also helps to divert gray water from the washing machine, bathtub and showers to a separate leach field.

4. Pump the septic tank every three to five years or as needed so that water from inside the home continues to drain. This prevents solids from blocking the inlet and outlet baffles on the septic tank. Paying several hundred dollars every few years for routine maintenance can save you many thousands of dollars if a clogged leach field needs to be replaced.

5. Clear blockages caused by tree roots growing into leach field pipelines. Hire a professional plumbing service to do the job as using chemicals could damage the septic system. Large trees should be located more than 10 feet away from the drain field area.

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Replace Glass In An Aluminum Window

A fact of life when owning a house is that windows sometimes get broken and need to be replaced. The do it yourself homeowner can save a few bucks by replacing these broken windows instead of hiring someone to do it. It's even quicker to replace a window pane in an aluminum window frame than it is with a traditional wood window frame. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the glass part of the window and then add ½ inch to the height and width. If the glass is missing, measure the opening from inside edge of frame to inside edge of frame.

2. Measure the thickness of the old glass. The standard thicknesses are 1/8 inch or 3/32 inch. Be sure the get the correct thickness when buying replacement glass.

3. Place glass on a table. Remove the screw from the top right hand corner and the bottom left hand corner.

4. Slide the corner with the screw removed off the edge of the table. Tap the frame with a rubber mallet to remove it from the glass. Reposition window so the other corner with the screw removed is hanging over the edge of the table. Tap with rubber mallet to remove glass from aluminum frame.

5. Wearing thick work gloves and safety glasses, remove the rubber from the frame and clean all bits of glass from it.

6. Wearing thick work gloves and safety glasses, carefully remove the pieces of glass from the two parts of the frame.

7. Place replacement pane of glass on table so two sides hang over the edge. Place the rubber on those two edges.

8. Put half of the frame against the window. Tap the corner on with the rubber mallet. Tap one edge against the rubber until the glass is seated. Next, do the other edge.

9. Repeat, placing the other half of the frame on the remaining two sides of the replacement window pane.

10. Replace the screws in the corners of the window frame.

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Calculate The Cost Of Rebuilding A Home

The thought of rebuilding a home can be very scary to many people because of the variables involved. The biggest variable that many people worry about is the cost of rebuilding a home. There are many different ways to calculate the cost of a home. The cost of rebuilding a home should be calculated during each phase of design. The easiest method is using the cost per square foot.

Instructions

1. Measure the size of each room using your architectural scale If you have a set of floor plans already,

2. Make a list of all the sizes if you do not have a set of floor plans already but know the approximate sizes you want each room or space to be.

3. Calculate the square footage of each space by taking the width and the length of each room and multiplying them together. You should round up to the nearest foot. For example, an 11-foot-4-inch-by-10-foot-3-inch room would be calculated as a 12-foot-by-11-foot room.

4. Multiply the square footage of each space by the cost of construction, which is typically around $120 to $200.

5. Add the cost calculated for each space to get your total rebuilding cost for your home.

Tags: each room, each space, cost rebuilding home, floor plans, floor plans already, footage each

Tell If You'Ve Breathed Asbestos

Tell If You've Breathed Asbestos

Inhalation of asbestos can be dangerous even if you have been exposed only temporarily. Asbestos is used in roof shingles, roofing tiles, roofing felts, siding shingles, cement fittings and pipes used for water and drainage mains. As asbestos is fire and heat resistant, asbestos cement sheets are used in the proximity of boilers and fireplaces. You become exposed to asbestos when asbestos fibers, usually held intact inside the products, break and disperse into the air. This can happen during use of asbestos products, residential repairs, or if you are in the vicinity of building demolition works. There is no immediate symptom to indicate that a person has inhaled asbestos. But, it is always better to be cautious, especially if you suspect you have been exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos.

Instructions

1. Observe if you experience shortness of breath, persistent cough, pain in the chest, and difficulty to perform physical tasks. This could be an indication of Asbestosis. Asbestosis is caused by scarring of the lungs (fibrosis). When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they get lodged in the lungs. The body's immune system fights them because they are foreign substances by ordering inflammation of the entrants. This process creates scar-like tissue in the lungs, which thickens the air sacs walls, leading to difficulty in breathing.

2. Check for swelling, anemia, nausea, constipation, fever or sweating at nights and loss in weight, in addition to the breathing symptoms. This could indicate mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lung membranes or the abdomen. Even low levels of asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma.

3. Check for chronic cough increasing in severity and accompanied by blood in sputum. If there is also chest pain, hoarseness, difficulty in breathing and wheezing, loss of weight, headache and pain in the bones, pay immediate attention for these could be symptoms of lung cancer.

4. Seek professional help immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms.

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