Quick Shine Floor Varnish?I used a Quick Shine floor varnish on my floor and want to reapply. Do I need to remove the old before reapplying?
Fixing Wrinkles In Carpet?The carpet in my four year old modular home is full of wrinkles. How do I fix them?
Hampton Bay Pull Chain Switch Replacement?How to replace the broken chain pull switch on a Hampton Bay ceiling fan?
Troubleshooting A Water Tank?Dirty water tank is not filling. Reservoir is empty. Cleaned all filters.
Sealing a Gap at Base of Wooden Door?How do I seal the gap in the door where a small section has rotted away for the least amount of money.
Removing Rusted Washer Hose?My children bought me a new washing machine for Christmas but it can't be hooked up because the old hose is rusted to the water faucet. How do I get this unscrewed without breaking the faucet?
Cleaning Toilet Rim Flush Holes?How do I clean out lime build up in the flush holes under the lip in the toilet bowl? When you flush the toilet these holes clean off the sides of the bowl, but only the center hole is working fine. I figure these holes are plugged up with lime build-up.
Two Prong Plug to Three Prong Extension Cord?I recently purchased a new portable electric Kobalt "inflator", i.e., air compressor. Its power cord for 120-volt household current has a 2-prong plug with one prong thicker than the other, as is common/required nowadays.
Scent Burner Stuck on Wood?I have an one of those little oil scent burner things that uses a tea light candle. I placed it on a Fiestaware plate when using it. I tried to move the plate and realized the plate is now stuck to the top of the furniture it is sitting on. Is there a way to remove it without damaging the surface of the wood? I've tried lighting it again and letting it get warm. Still stuck.
Safety with Plumber's Chemicals?Is it safe to take a bath that night after the plumber has used chemicals that stay down the drain of the tub?
Removing Zep Floor Refinishing?I applied Zep floor refinishing but now I want to remove it because the floor is very scratched and opaque. Can I remove this product and then put it back on?
Homemade Pillow CraftsPillows are a great beginner sewing project. but can also be made with intricate quilting, embroidery or other ornamentation. They can be used for unique home decor or just for comfort and make wonderful gifts.
Repairing a FloorWhether you have carpet, vinyl or hardwood flooring, it can be challenging to repair. Often, replacing is needed in order to fully fix the damage.
Drain Cleaner Damaged Finish on Kitchen SinkDrain cleaner is very caustic and can damage the finish of sinks if not used carefully. Once the finish has been marred, repair should be done by a professional to avoid further damage.
Repairing a Mattress TopperI had a mattress topper, one of the ones that is held on with elastic straps. The elastic stretched out and didn't stay on very well. I took it and cut the straps off. I put a fitted sheet on my mattress upside down then put the topper on it. When I got it set in the right place, I pinned it in place, took it to my sewing machine and stitched them together. Then I sewed it from corner to corner in a big X. That keeps them together when washing.
Emergency Gasket from an Egg CartonGot a leak? Make a gasket out of a Styrofoam egg crate. I can't tell you how many times something is leaking and it's after 5 o'clock or it's just too inconvenient to run to the store, not to mention the expense. So here is my thrifty tip on how to make a gasket in less than five minutes.
No Power to New Chandelier and Switches?I installed a chandelier and caused a short which tripped the breaker, 2 times. I already know why the short was caused and I fixed it, but now the 2 switches (3 way switches) to the chandelier have no power and neither does the chandelier wires. The outlets that are connected to the same breaker do work. Any ideas?
Mail Wedged in the Letterbox?The solutions to this rather unique mailbox issue are discussed below. Hopefully you never need to deal with a similar concern.
Foam To Fix a Store Room LeakSmall pipe insulating foam can help fix a floor moisture leak in a store room. When there is not much roof overhang, you can run into problems.
Repairing a Broken Dish DrainerHere is how to repair a broken dish drainer. The plastic silverware holder clips on the wire rack and tape can help keep it secure.
Repairing Woodpecker Damage to Cedar Siding?Woodpeckers sometimes will damage the wood siding on a home, especially softer wood such as cedar. Make sure there are no pests invading the siding and attracting the birds. To repair the damage you will need a wood filler or two-part adhesive of epoxy resin and hardening putty. For more information check below.
Use Boiling Water With Liquid Plumbr GelAccording to the Liquid Plumbr web site the hot water is used to flush the drain after the clog has been cleared. Boiling water can be used with vinegar as an alternative method of unclogging a drain instead of chemical drain cleaners.
Repairing a Cultured Marble SinkDepending on the level of the damage to your cultured marble sink, such as cracks, there may be some methods you can try. Checking with a home improvement store is a good place to start. This page contains some suggestions for the do-it-yourselfer.
Electric Shock When Touching Shower Head?If you are experiencing a small electric shock when you touch your metal showerhead, that can be indicitave of a serious problem in your electrical system. Careful troubleshooting should be done. If the problem cannot be detected easily, it would be best to contact a professional electrician.
Repairing a Light Fixture?Repairing a light fixture is often a simple project but some issues will require an electrician. Always turn off the power first before working on any electrical fixtures or outlets.
Air Conditioner Repair Assistance for Low Income Homeowners?It can be difficult for low income homeowners to find financial assistance to make needed repairs to their air conditioners. There may be government programs available as well as other resources. Research into options will be needed.
Clearing Clogged PlumbingLike many modern conveniences, plumping is great until it is not, because it is clogged. Clogs often occur in the bathroom, kitchen, and in the plumbing associated with washers. There are manual and chemical methods for clearing the clog yourself. In some cases a plumber may be needed.
Using a Plunger In a Bathroom SinkWhen using a plunger in a bathroom sink you will need to block the overflow opening with tape or a rag as it interrupts the seal of the plunger suction.
Turning on Electric Stove Turns Lights Off?I turn the stove on and my hood light goes off and bedroom power goes out, but the stove keeps working.
Repairing a CeilingBefore tackling a repair on a ceiling, you need to know what caused the damage in the first place. Depending on the material used for your ceiling, you can find the proper supplies to fix it.
Replacing the Tub Shower Combination in a Mobile Home?Replacing the tub shower combination in a mobile home is reliant on finding a replacement unit that will fit the space. This is an issue for all remodel work whether in a mobile home or a stick built one. If you are unable to find a suitable combination replacement, other options such as separate tubs and surrounds might solve the problem.
Lubricating a Garage DoorLubricating your garage door will help minimize friction which causes wear on the mechanisms. It also makes it quieter when it is being opened and closed.
Repairing and Maintaining an Asphalt Driveway?Is there a simple way to re-asphalt my driveway? Or for me to seal it, and how often should sealing be done?
Repairing a Clothes Steamer?When you need to repair a clothes steamer, you may find it is clogged with calcium deposits. Always use distilled water in your steamer and use a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.
Restuffing a PillowOver time a throw pillow can become lumpy or unfluffy. It can be opened, emptied, washed and refilled with new stuffing. Restuffing a pillow can save you money.
Breakers Tripped When Changing Dryer Plug?I was changing the plug for my dryer, in an older home I just bought. My circuit box is not labeled well. I thought the correct breaker was off. Guess it was not. As I pulled the wires through the plug box. Sparks went everywhere. If flipped a 15 amp breaker. And half way flipped the main 100 amp breaker. Will it work again if I just replace the 2 breakers? Or could more be wrong?
Mold Abatement Assistance for Low Income Homeowners?I purchased the land and mobile home that my grandparents lived in, on one acre about 5 years ago. I ended up replacing much of the floor as it had rotted hoping that would be it, but while doing so realized that all the insulation is gone under the home. The mobile home is full of mold and it seems like it happened over night. It is on the walls and ceiling and you can see it and smell it.
Repairing Holes Made in Older Carpet by Cats?Our carpet is almost 20 years old, so it's not worth paying for professional repair. I'd like to replace it with tile or hardwood eventually. We've got three doorways where our kittens have clawed holes in it, when we were trying to shut them out of our bedroom, or they accidentally got shut in a closet.
Kitchen Cabinet Stain Seeped into Joints?It appears that stain from my new cabinets has oozed or seeped up in the joints looking like dried glue. The contractor said it was because we didn't have air conditioning. We live in Minnesota and we are in our first week of real heat and it appeared before.
Electrical Repair Assistance for Low Income Homeowners?I need help with my electrical outlets. Do you know of any programs that provide electrical repairs?
Can Mold Grow on Plywood Over Concrete Under a Vapor Barrier?I have a concrete slab with plywood on top of the concrete and a plastic barrier under a solid oak floor. There is moisture in the plywood, but not the oak. Can black mole grow under the plastic barrier? If so I will need to replace my expensive oak floors.
Preventing Mold After a Water Leak?My water heater sprung a leak and it stinks in my trailer! Will everything in it become moldy? Can I save my Kitchenaid or should I give it to Goodwill?
Getting Rid of Sulfur Smell from Water Heater?Depending on the age of the water heater and the water supply, there are different reasons why you may be experiencing an odor. This is a page about getting rid of sulfur smell from water heater.
Resealing Seams on a Tub Surround?To reseal a seam where a tub meets the stall, you will need to remove the old sealer and apply silicone calking. This is a page about resealing seams on a tub surround.
Home Repair Assistance for Families of Deceased Veterans?There are organizations that can assist our veteran families with expensive home repairs but the need is great so waiting times tend to be long. This is a page about finding home repair assistance for families of deceased veterans.
Using Dish Soap to Unclog a ToiletIf you have trouble getting your toilet to flush even after plunging, check out the technique here to clear the flow. This is a page about using dish soap to unclog toilet.
Removing Leather Wedding Album Stuck to Wood Coffee Table?The bottom of my leather wedding album is stuck to my wood coffee table. The table is slotted so I can reach between to force it off, but I am afraid I will damage the wedding album. Any suggestions that won't ruin the album?
How to Paint Faded Patio Pillows for a Colorful New LookIf you don't have the budget to replace your faded outdoor pillows, give them a fresh update with colorful paint. This is a page about how to paint faded patio pillows for a colorful new look.
Using a Potato to Remove Broken Light BulbWith the power off, a safe way to remove a broken light bulb is with a raw potato. This is a page about using a potato to remove broken light bulb.
Removing Hair Dye from a Painted Door?Removing hair dye from a painted door without damaging the paint is not easily done. What typically will need to happen is covering the stain with primer and repainting part or all of the door. This is a page about removing hair dye from a painted door.
Rewiring a Table LampRewire a lamp and save money. Keep track with your cell phone photos of how your lamp comes apart. This will help you reassemble it properly. This is a page about rewiring a living room lamp.
DIY Japanese Kintsugi Pottery RepairAn inexpensive way to fix broken pottery is with a gold dusted lacquer to stick the pieces back together leaving an attractive piece of pottery. This is a page about DIY Japanese kintsugi pottery repair.
Cleaning Wax Poured Down a Drain?If melted candle type wax is accidentally poured down one of your drains there are a couple of common approaches to resolving this problem. One is to dismantle the plumbing or you can try hot water, vinegar, and perhaps the addition of baking soda. This is a page about cleaning wax poured down a drain.
No Cold Water at Sink and Slow Filling Toilet?I've no cold water in my wash hand basin. The water is filling very slowly in the toilet. The cistern tank is full up in the attic and the ball cock is fine. What else could it be?
Identifying the Source of a Loud Boom Breaking Sound Inside?I was using the restroom when all of a sudden the biggest boom, crashing, breaking sound I've heard in my home happened. Not only did it scare me, but my dogs I thought the toilet had broken or exploded with me using it or that the washer blew up. It was directly from either the toilet or washer, but can't find anything wrong.
Bathroom Ceiling Light Not Working?The overhead light in my bathroom stopped working. The outlet in the room still works. I changed out the switch on the wall and changed the lightbulbs with no improvement. I took the light out and it does not show any electricity coming from it. How what I fix this?
Troubleshooting an Electrical Circuit?So the lights at my mom's house turn off if the dryer isn't on. I checked the breakers and everything seems normal. I'm wondering what could be the problem?
Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner Stained Cabinet Shelf?The dye in some cleaning products can leave stains if the product leaks or is spilled. To repair a cabinet stained by toilet bowl cleaner you could try painting with Kilz and then a paint of your choice. This is a page about Lysol toilet bowl cleaner stained cabinet shelf.
Electrical Issues After Installing a New Breaker?I shut off the main and put a new breaker in to win a 30 amp line to an outlet (capping the old wires completely). When I turned the main back on, my microwave isn't running at full power, or so it seems.
Removing Mirrors Glued to Wall with Super Glue?I got the thrifty interior decorating idea of placing rose colored mirrors up in my bathroom as a backsplash using super glue. Now I'm thinking that it's a bit much and want to take them down and do another back splash. How do I remove the mirrors since they were put up with super glue?
Use PVC Caps to Cover Tall Toilet BoltsIf the bolts for your toilet are too long to be covered by the caps that are sold for this purpose, try this solution. This is a page about use PVC caps to cover tall toilet bolts.
Sealing a Crack in a Terrazzo Shower Floor?I have a shower floor made of terrazzo. It has a crack what do I use to seal it?
Finding Rebuilding Assistance After a Fire?Insurance should cover the cost of rebuilding your home. If you do not have it, you may be able to find assistance through your church or community. This is a page about finding rebuilding assistance after a fire.
Fixing a Bowl That Was Warped by a Dishwasher?The heat in a dishwasher can change the shape of plastic bowls. You can try boiling water or a blow dryer to try to reshape it. This is a page about fixing a bowl that was warped by a dishwasher.
Smoke Alarm Goes Off for No Reason?I have 4 smoke detectors and they go off for no reason. They beep (not chirp) 2 times and then go into silent mode. Only one of them blinks green while in silent mode. Is this the offending detector? I live in apartment and maintenance doesn't work on weekends. It's a First Alert 9120B and hard wired.
Sealing Cracks in a Wood StoveA stiff paste of wood ash, salt, and water can be used to seal the cracks in a wood stove. It is applied and baked using a hot fire. This is a page about sealing cracks in a wood stove.
Repairing a Broken Fiberglass Fountain Decoration?This is a page about repairing a broken fiberglass fountain decoration. If you have a damaged fiberglass fountain, it can be hard to find replacement parts. Here are some repair tips, if you want to try repairing it yourself.
Troubleshooting Electric Clothes Dryer Connection Problems?If the outlet or power cord for you dryer are not working properly this may be a job for a homeowner with some wiring skills, otherwise it is best to call a repair service or electrician. This is a page about troubleshooting electric clothes dryer connection problems.
Removing a Water Based Polyurethane Mark on Floor?Like an idiot I placed the can of water based polyurethane on a part of the floor I wasn't working on and it left a mark. Any suggestions or thoughts on what I can do with this would be greatly appreciated.
Wood Cabinets Damaged By Murphy's Oil Soap?If the finish on a cabinet is compromised it is possible for cleaners such as oil soaps diluted with water to seep under it. If this has happed to you there are some ideas for solutions in this page.
Repairing a Chipped CountertopDepending on the type of material your countertop is made of there are varying ways to repair a chip. For laminate countertops, there is a product called Fix A Chip. Other methods and products can also be used. This is a page about repairing a chipped countertop.
Main Breaker Keeps Tripping?I am wondering why my main circuit breaker switch won't stay on for all my power in my house?
How to Repair Scratches on a Bathtub's FinishDepending on the material that your bathtub is made from, there are a variety of different ways to minimize or remove scratches on the finish. This is a page about how to repair scratches on a bathtub's finish.
Water Leaking Under Mobile Home When AC Is Running?When the refrigerated A/C unit in my mobile home is running, I notice water leaking from underneath the mobile home. Is this normal?
Cleaning an Old Butcher Block Wood TableYou may end up needing to sand the wood surface to remove all the stains, but generally you can renew it, and protect the surface with an edible oil. This is a page about cleaning an old butcher block wood table.
Repairing Torn Carpet?Depending on the size of the tear and the condition of the carpet there are a couple of common ways to repair it. You can either sew it up or tape from underneath. This is a page about repairing torn carpet.
How to Fix a White Heat Mark on Faux Marble?Faux marble is not as rugged as the real thing and heat damage is a common complaint. This page contains advice on how to fix a white heat mark on faux marble.
Applying for Help from Habitat For Atlanta?How do I apply for help getting my home repaired by Habitat for Atlanta?
Not Getting Power But Circuit Breaker Was Not TrippedElectrical problems can be difficult to diagnose, especially when it isn't a simple case of resetting the breaker. This is a page to troubleshoot the issue of not getting power but the circuit breaker was not tripped.
Plug Won't Stay in New Electrical Outlet'?The plug keeps falling out of a brand new outlet.
Toilet Won't Flush After Mixing Vinegar and Clorox Tablet in Tank?I poured vinegar in the tank of my toilet on top of the blue Clorox tablet. Now the tank won't flush even after I cleaned the gook it made in the tank. Does anyone know how to fix this?
Hallway Light Doesn't Work When It Rains?The light in my hallway works normally, but when it rains I've noticed it doesn't work then. After the rain the next day or hours later it works again. What could be the problem?
How to Repair Chips on Ceramic ItemsSmall chips on the edge of a dish are unattractive, but usually, the dishes have plenty of life left in them. This page contains tips for disguising and repairing chips on ceramic items.
Identifying a Popping and Crackling Noise in the Wall?When you hear an unknown sound in a wall its important to determine what it is, because it may be an unsafe situation and need repair. This is a page about identifying a popping and crackling noise in the wall.
Water Heater Tank Not Filling?This is a page about a water heater tank not filling. If your water heater tank is not filling with water, there are a few things you can try before calling a plumber.
Organizations That Help With Home RepairWhen you don't have the money to pay for repairs on your home, there may help available in your community. This is a page about organizations that help with home repair.
Financial Help to Remove Black Mold and Repair Walls?I am a 33 year old single mother of 2 children. We live in a trailer. Currently I am cleaning homes for a source of income which doesn't leave much after bills. Which is why I tried to do this myself. There was black mold behind the trim in the shower. I took it off and found much more than I can handle.
Replacement Cords for Biddeford Electric Blankets?Electric blanket cords often get misplaced or damaged while the oringial blanket is still usable. This is a page about replacement cords for Biddeford electric blankets.
Bug Spray Left Yellow Spots on Hardwood Floor?My daughter used ant spray behind her desk to kills some ants two weeks ago and now her hardwood floor has yellow spots. She tried Bona hardwood cleaner, Dawn dish detergent and hot water, but nothing is working. The yellow just comes back. Any ideas?
Roof Repair Help for Low Income Homeowners?Our roof was somewhat old and Hurricane Harvey finished it off. I am not eligible for FEMA help. I live in Fort Bend County, Texas. I own my home and land. I already have a replacement quote from someone. What are my best options in finding a charity or government grant to help?
Finding Plumbing Repair Help for Low Income Homeowners?This is a page about finding plumbing repair help for low income homeowners. Plumbing repairs may be too expensive for many low income homeowners. However they are quite necessary for health and even safety. Finding a source of assistance to reduce the costs can help.
Electrical Circuit Not Working After Adding a Light Switch?Unfortunately some seemingly minor DIY electrical repairs have unforeseen consequences. You add a new switch only to have the entire circuit stop working. This is a page about electrical circuit not working after adding a light switch.
My House is Falling Apart?Sometimes, repairs get ignored too long and can cause unsafe conditions. This page contains advice if your house is falling apart.
Fixing Sticking Drawers, Windows and Sliding Glass DoorsThis is a page about sticking drawers, windows, and sliding glass doors. Windows, sliding doors, and drawers are notorious for sticking. One simple remedy is to rub the runners with paraffin. If that does not work more specific repair work may need to be done.
Troubleshooting Fusebox Problems?Problems in the fusebox can cause issues throughout your home. Always use caution when working with electricity and consult an electrician before attempting your own repairs. This is a page about troubleshooting fusebox problems.
Using Tape to Glue Wood?This is a page about using tape to glue wood. As the glue is drying, it is best to use something to hold everything in place. Clamps work great for most projects, but painter's tape works great in those tough to reach places.
Remedy for Smelly Well Water?We bought a house with a well in Columbus, Ohio. We have a water softener. We had a horrible smell when we moved in. We added a filter with charcoal and then added one with kdf85 and kdf55 media. The smell went away for a little while.
How Long Does an Exterior House Paint Job Last?Home ownership means a lot of regular upkeep and maintenance. The exterior paint protects the siding from the elements. Neglect can cause moisture and insects to enter the home.
Removing Welding Burn Marks on Stainless Steel Pipe Joint?It can be difficult to remove marks on stainless steel pipes. This is a page about removing welding burn marks on stainless steel pipe joint.
Removing Bleach Tablet Stuck in ToiletAlthough bleach tablets are great for keeping your toilet bowl clean, they can be a big problem if accidentally flushed down the drain. This is a page about removing a bleach tablet stuck in the toilet.
Installing Flooring on Particle Board?It is important for flooring to be installed correctly to avoid costly problems in the future. This is a page about installing flooring on particle board.
