With the Grain » home improvement project

Air Conditioner Maintenance

Jenn Greenleaf — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:20:54 +0000

Maintaining an air conditioner is just as important as ensuring a heating system is running efficiently in many parts of the country. Without maintaining these appliances, a lot of costly repairs and high-energy bills could be the reality.

Here are some links to lead you:

For those who are unsure about tackling a project such as this, be sure to find a contractor or other professional for assistance. Finding an experienced friend or family member to help with maintenance is another option to consider.

Home Improvement Videos

Jenn Greenleaf — Fri, 28 May 2010 20:53:54 +0000

Some people need more information beyond what is presented to them on a written page when it comes to certain home improvements. There are others who can’t seem to wrap their minds around what’s on the written page, and they need to SEE how to complete the project. If you’re a visual learner, here are some links to home improvement videos:

DIY Network: Video Library
HGTV: Videos (scroll a bit down the screen, and they’re on the right)
How Stuff Works: Take Home Handyman

Use your favorite search engine to find more. YouTube.com is an excellent resource, too, for home improvement videos filmed by professional contractors, weekend warriors, and other home improvement specialists.

Patio Door Installation

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:37:44 +0000

For those who are living in a preexisting home, and are not exploring new construction, patio door installation may be desired. Despite how intimidating the project may appear, this DIY home improvement project is not impossible to tackle by those who are inexperienced.

Here are some links to lead you:

Because some of the steps require heavy lifting (the door is awkward and heavy), be sure to request help from friends or family members. This help is also beneficial for those who are unsure if they’re able to handle this installation on their own. Good luck!

Upcoming Home Depot Workshops

Jenn Greenleaf — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 23:30:59 +0000

Workshops are an excellent opportunity to get some hands on experience with a project, be it home improvement or home related, you would have otherwise had to learn on your own through trial and error. Home Depot is a reputable source for many of these workshops. Most often, these workshops are a good way for scouts to gain skills necessary to earn their achievements, too.

Here are some upcoming workshops:

Check these opportunities out at your local Home Depot rehgularly. Often times, there are store-specific opportunities posted on bulletin boards or posters near the customer service area. If you are unsure of the time or location of a workshop, be sure to inquire well in advance so you and your family (or friends) are able to prepare and save the date!

How to Build a Child’s Playhouse

Jenn Greenleaf — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:54:37 +0000

Weekend warriors and DIY experts alike can tackle building a child’s playhouse. There are a wide variety of sizes, styles, and floor plans to choose from ranging from novice builder to expert craftsman.

Here are some links to lead you:

As you can see, these projects can take on a very creative and complex twist depending on tastes and budgets. Go over ideas and plans with the entire family to ensure no one is dreaming larger than what the budget (or abilities) allows for.

No matter what skill level, it’s a great opportunity for family bonding during the building process. Teaching children the basics of building and the tools necessary to complete the task creates lasting memories.

How to Be Self-Sufficient at Home

Jenn Greenleaf — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:14:19 +0000

Let’s face it; being more self-sufficient should be touching most of our lives by now. However, taking this step is difficult for many. There are a number of ways to be more self-sufficient in our homes, and in an economy that’s struggling as ours is, it could help to explore and implement some or all of these strategies.

Here are some links to lead you:

Research this topic thoroughly before embarking upon costly home improvements or extensive DIY projects. Start small, and then work your way up. There may be grants available in your area, or low-interest home improvement loans geared toward projects such as these.

How to Build a Playhouse

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:19:31 +0000

For those who are living in winter weather states, cabin fever is likely creeping up. Our home is no exception. We’ve been making plans and researching how to build a playhouse as soon as the winter weather ceases.

Here’s what we’re reading:

Building a playhouse does take some carpentry skill, but it’s not an impossible task. Weekend warriors can complete this project on their own, or with the help of experienced friends or family members. The key is to schedule the process out so this project doesn’t become overwhelming.

Home Depot February Workshops

Jenn Greenleaf — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:25:30 +0000

For those of you who haven’t heard of Home Depot’s home improvement and other DIY workshops, you’re missing out on some informative and hands-on learning experiences.

Not only are these workshops beneficial for novice DIY’ers, but they’re also great for homeschoolers looking for field trip opportunities, or curriculum extensions.

Here’s what you can expect to find for February workshops:

Interior Painting
Tiling Floors and Walls
Small Bath Updates
Installing Interior Lights

Use this URL, The Home Improver Club, to sign up for these workshops. Be sure to check with your local store for any additional workshops or learning opportunities that may not be listed on this link.

How to Choose Wood Glue

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:45:39 +0000

Choosing wood glue seems like a no-brainer, right? There are those who struggle with this, though, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Am I getting wood glue that’s strong enough? Will it crack over time? Do all wood glues have the same amount of drying time? Questions like these are common for those new to DIY home improvements and repairs.

Here are some links to lead you:

As you can see, it doesn’t hurt to be selective and you can never be too careful. Use the resource links above to help you through buying decisions, as well as use of the wood glue products you’ve selected. Good luck!

Winter Home Improvement Projects

Jenn Greenleaf — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:14:46 +0000

It isn’t uncommon for individuals to believe home improvements during the winter are impossible. This is not the case, though. Choose indoor improvements:

Improve your home’s energy efficiency
Refinish the basement to expand living spaces and add storage
Paint, tile, or work on other wall treatments
Repair or replace flooring
Add or replace light fixtures
Replace cabinet doors and drawer fronts
Replace hollow core doors with studier or more attractive interior doors

This basic list is just the beginning of what you can explore for winter home improvements. Don’t forget to address replacing door locks, changing window treatments, and adding throw rugs. Use your imagination!