Summer is here and the heat is on. We have Your July Homeowner To-Do List to get you started a few summer projects that won't break the bank - or your back. Screen Saver It's summer. We all want to open our windows and let in fresh, summer air. If your window screens have holes, you're letting in a lot more than fresh air. You're letting in more bugs, dust, and pollen. If your screens need to be repaired, remove the torn screen. Stretch new screening over the metal frame and cut it to the correct size. Now, insert a new screening spline into the frame. Use a rolling tool. Finally, trim the excess screening material. Make Your Pool Sparkle Automatic skimmers do a great job of collecting pool debris, but sometimes you need your pole and flat skimmer to catch what floats on … [Read more...] about Your July Homeowner To-Do List
Homeowner Resources
Making Our Way to Independence Day in 1776
One cool, bright, sunny morning in Philadelphia, history was made. This was the day Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Following is a quick overview of the timeline from ushistory.org that brought us to Independence Day, July 4th, 1776. June 11 Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston appointed to committee to draft a proposed Declaration of Independence. June 12-27 Jefferson drafts a declaration. The committee reviews Jefferson's original draft. Today, these important documents can be found in the Library of Congress. June 28 Declaration of Independence is read and presented in Congress. July 1-4 Congress debates and revises the Declaration of Independence. July 2 Congress declares independence as … [Read more...] about Making Our Way to Independence Day in 1776
Little Container Gardens are a Big Deal
Container gardens are a great alternative to those of us short on space, or who don't want the commitment of a large garden. Container gardens are going to make a dramatic, and sometimes wildly and colorful impact on your front porch or back patio. They are portable, easy to care for, and easy to create! It's agreed. Little Container Gardens are a Big Deal. What Sort of Container is Best to Create a Container Garden? Aside from choosing a container that best complements the style of your home, you want to be sure your container allows for good drainage. Proper drainage will keep your plants from "drowning." Once you settle on a style, you should have no problem coming up with creative ideas. Choose from large, clay pots, to 5-gallon buckets, to half barrels. "Many plants thrive … [Read more...] about Little Container Gardens are a Big Deal
4 Power Tools Every DIY Dad Should Own
What does a father cherish almost as much as his family? His power tools. Here are four essential power tools every dad should own (hint, hint): #1 - The Power Drill This must-have power tool will give your dad to freedom to handle a multitude of household tasks, such as hanging window fixtures, building furniture, and installing shelving. #2 - The Reciprocating Saw Your dad probably knows this saw by its Milwaukee Tools brand name, "Sawzall." This saw cuts through most material he will encounter during a remodel project. #3 - The Jigsaw The jigsaw is great for cutting curves or shapes. Unless your dad plans on cutting long lengths of plywood, this is the saw to own. He can use a guide to cut straight lines if need be. #4 - Orbital Sander This hand-held sander will … [Read more...] about 4 Power Tools Every DIY Dad Should Own
5 Things You Should Never Buy at a Garage Sale
Instead of talking up all those great deals that await you in the early morning hours on someone else's lawn, we're here with a list of things you should probably never buy at a garage sale. 1. Baby gear We're not talking clothes here. By gear, we mean cribs, playpens, and car seats. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that older models may not have the same safety features as newer ones. This applies to vintage toys as well. Many vintage toys are safety hazards. We found a list of the Top 10 Banned Toys in the Banned Toy Museum. 2. Bicycle helmets Bike helmets should be replaced after any crash involving your head. When you buy a helmet at a garage sale, you have no way of really knowing the helmet's mysterious, and possibly sordid past. 3. … [Read more...] about 5 Things You Should Never Buy at a Garage Sale