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
Do You Have To Drywall Before Shiplap?

If you’re into home improvement, you’ve likely come across literature suggesting shiplap as an appropriate wall covering for drywall. The simultaneous mention…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Can Drywall Screws Be Used Outdoors?

There are many screws you could use for your next outdoor project, but where the weather is a concern, any old screw…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Do All Smart Locks Require a Hub?

Anyone who’s ever searched high and low for keys while family members rambled on about how we’re late and we have to…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Using Cement Board Outdoors: 9 Essential Tips

Contractors commonly use cement boards as indoor flooring and wall base to fortify a structures’ overall integrity. However, not many homeowners know…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Here’s Why Cement Board Should be Staggered

The world of construction is vast and can be complicated. When it comes to building a new house or renovating an existing…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Do Deck Stairs Need Railings?

I built a deck a few years ago that had two sets of stairs on it and was approximately 4’ above grade.…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Can You Install Ditra Over Cement Board?

Tiling your bathroom or kitchen floor comes with many steps, but none as complicated as deciding on a backer. You want a…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Is Ditra Needed Over Concrete?

Ditra has grown popular over the years. You have probably seen these orange waffle-y products on television and DIY YouTube Videos. So,…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Drywall or cement board for fireplace: How to decide

Installing a brand-new fireplace can be frustrating if you don’t know the base materials. Although they might seem insignificant when it comes…
September 27, 2025
Handy Tips
Should Cement Board be Glued or Taped?

Cement board is a type of building material which combines cement with reinforcing fibers to create sheets of varying thickness. These sheets…
September 27, 2025