Handy Tips

Quick, practical answers to the home questions I get asked most locks, bathrooms, concrete, generators, foundations, and more. Each guide answers one specific problem with what I’d actually check first, what it should cost, and when it’s smarter to call a pro instead of doing it yourself.

Handy Tips
Can You Use a Hammer Drill as a Jackhammer?

Hammer drills and jackhammers are specialized tools made for very different purposes. While a hammer drill has some similarities to a jackhammer,…
October 1, 2025
Handy Tips
When to Replace Your Sump Pump: Age, Wear, & Performance Clues

Aging sump pumps hide deadly warning signs that could flood your basement—discover the critical performance clues before it's too late.
September 30, 2025
Handy Tips
Preventing Mold & Moisture in Your Basement With Proper Drainage

Basement mold problems disappear when you master these drainage secrets that most homeowners never discover until it's too late.
September 30, 2025
Handy Tips
Can Drywall Screws Go Into Studs?

Those familiar with drywall installation know the importance of long screws, especially when applying them to wooden walls. Drywall can be installed…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Cement Board vs. Green Board for Shower: Which Is Best?

As you may know, shower and kitchen are two environments that are most exposed to water, which makes it challenging to select…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Paving Slabs vs. Tiles: What’s the Difference?

There are a lot of choices when you are choosing flooring for an outdoor project. Paving slabs and tiles come in all…
September 27, 2025
Gazebos
How To Put A Gazebo On A Deck: A Step-By-Step Guide

Putting up a gazebo on your deck may seem like a daunting task; however, if you opt for a DIY gazebo, things…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Can You Mix Mortar With a Hammer Drill?

Mortar is a paste of sand and cement used to hold together bricks and stones. When mixing mortar, it is crucial to…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Can You Drill or Screw Into a Paving Slab?

Although it’s a pretty durable substance, concrete is easy to drill into with the right tools. If not done correctly, drilling and…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Is Ditra Necessary on Plywood?

If you’re working on a bathroom or kitchen project, you’ve probably ruled out wood flooring thanks to the potentially humid environment and…
September 27, 2025