Hot Home & Garden Posts

How To: Unclog a toilet in 11 seconds like a pro plumber

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to unclog a toilet in 11 seconds. Users will need a plunger. It is recommended to use a pleaded plunger, instead of the regular plunger. When clogging a toilet, the rubber of the plunger is filled up with water, pushed down and squeezes out the pressurized water. The force from the pressured water will remove the clogging of the toilet. Slowly place the plunger into the water and let it be filled with water. Align it with the toilet hole and then push...

How To: Fix a running old style fill valve toilet

This Home & Garden video shows you how to replace a running old style fill valve toilet with something more modern. Shut the supply line to the toilet and flush to remove the water from the tank. Then remove the supply line. Now take a wrench and loosen the plastic nut of the old fill valve located under the tank. Then lift the old valve and keep it aside. Take a 'flow master', which is a new type fill valve, place it in the same spot and hand tighten the nut under the tank to hold the flow m...

How To: Sweat pipes for an air-tight connection

In this video tutorial, viewers will learn how to sweat pipes. The materials required for sauntering the sweat pipes are: M-APP gas, gauge, solder, solder paste, pipe cutter, brillow and copper pipes. Begin by cutting the copper pipe to a desired size. Then brush some plumber flux onto the copper pipe and hold it in place with a clamp. Now use the M-APP gas to move the flame around the pipe to allow it to suck in the solder. This video will benefit those viewers who are interested in plumbing...

How To: Fix a faucet leaking from around the handle

This video is a do it yourself project which will show viewers how to fix a leaking kitchen faucet which is leaking water from around the base of the handle. This problem is most likely caused by a broken cartridge, a Moen 1225B cartridge is used to replaced it. The first step which should be taken is to shut off the flow of water from the sink using the shutoff valves under the sink. Then, remove the handle and its adapter depending on the style of the handle which is leaking and remove the ...

How To: Replace a bathroom faucet with Lowe's

In this tutorial, we learn how to replace a bathroom faucet. Tools you will need are: faucet, adjustable wrenches, bucket, towel, safety sponges, pliers, and plumber's putty. First, turn off the water supply and turn off the faucet to remove any excess water. Next, use a wrench to remove the nuts that are holding the faucet in place. Next, apply putty onto the pre-cut sink holes and insert your new sink. On the other side, secure the new faucet and nuts with a wrench. Now you can turn on your...

How To: Repair a small hole in the wall by patching it

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to repair a small hole in the wall. The materials needed for this process are drywall tape, water, patching compound, and a drywall knife. Begin by placing the drywall tape over the hole. Then mix some water with the patching compound and apply it over the hole. Use the drywall knife to spread the compound over the hole. Start from the middle and spread out. Finish by letting the compound dry and sand it using some sand paper. This video will benefit ...

How To: Insulate Electrical Outlets & Switches

Prepare all the materials and tools needed for the process. Prepare a circuit tester, an electrical tape, a flathead screwdriver, a pair of scissors, and an electric sealers kit. Then, make sure that you turn off the power at the main circuit box. Place a piece of electrical tape over the circuit breaker that goes to the circuit that you are going to work on. Unscrew the screws that are holding the plate cover of the outlets to the wall. Test the outlet using the circuit tester to make sure t...

How To: Pinch stem tips on plants

In this tutorial, we learn how to properly pinch the stem of plants. This will help for stems that grow beyond the head and ruin the look of the plant. All you have to do is simply pinch the stems of the leaves that are growing outward and the ones that look unruly. You just need to take your two fingers and pinch the very stem of it, being careful not to damage the plant. For a medium sized plant, this will only take a few short minutes and it will make the plant look much better. It will al...

How To: Get rid of pests in your home and yard

In this tutorial, Lisa Quinn tells us how to get rid of pests in the home. First, walk around your home and look around the foundation to see if there are any big crack or crevices on the foundation. To solve this, go to the hardware store and grab some caulk to fill in any cracks. Next, check your windows to make sure they don't have any cracks in them, if they do, fill it in with weather stripping. Now, go into your kitchen and cabinets and make sure your pantry is free of crumbs and your c...

How To: Sterilize a Sponge

In this tutorial, we learn how to sterilize a sponge with Debbie Anderson. Over time, your sponge can collect a lot of different bacteria, so sterilizing it is very important. You will need: baking soda, vinegar, measuring cups, rubber gloves, and a microwave. First, place a stopper inside of your sink and fill it up half way with hot water and add in 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar. Mix this together with your hands (with gloves on them) and then place the sponges inside. Rinse the spo...

How To: Prune conifers

In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to prune conifers. When pruning, use the cutters and reach for the healthy part of the plant at the back. Take off the dead material by cutting as close to the base as possible. Pruning will improves the conifers overall appearance and health. If users do not cut off the dead material, the conifer will not grow any more branches. To control the conifer's size, do heading back cuts to decrease the size and increase the fullness. This video will benefit...

How To: Unclog Your Toilet the Right Way

Stephanie and Julie teach us how to unclog a toilet the correct way in this video. First, remember to turn the valve off on your water that goes to your toilet. This will help prevent unwanted floods in your bathroom. You will also need a plunger, making sure to take the lip out for better suction. After you stick the plunger into the toilet, plunge rapidly around twelve times. If this doesn't work, try adding more water and plunging again for around twelve times. If it still doesn't work, yo...

How To: Collect seeds in the fall for summer gardening

In this tutorial, we learn how to collect seeds with Barb Pearson. Where your flowers have formed is where your seed will form. It's best to collect seeds when the seed is dry, after the dew has dried off them in the afternoon. The seeds will be ripe when the pods have begun to open. Seed pods that are still green aren't ready to be collected yet. Pods are ready when they come off the vine easily. The best way to store the seeds is in a paper bag with a label on the outside. You can always cl...

How To: Give your boring old couch a sofa makeover

In this clip, learn how to stitch super simple items like bedsheets and use them as covers for your worn out sofa cushions. If your couch is looking dingy and old, follow along and give it a facelift. This quick fix will take less than five minutes per cushion and you will give you entire room a whole new look!

How To: Install a toilet for the Average Joe (or Jane)

When renovating the bathroom, it's always great to get rid of the old and welcome the new. Whether it's tiles, paint, or even the toilet. If you're looking to replace your old toilet with a new one, it can be hard when it comes to installing the new one. So in this tutorial, you'll be finding out how to install a toilet for you Average Joe's, or Jane's. So good luck, pay attention, and be careful. Enjoy!

How To: Install a hidden hitch on a 2005 Toyota Sienna

If you're looking to go out on the road and bring along your boat or trailer, having a hitch is needed. But what if your vehicle doesn't have one or you wish you could have it, but not show? Well this tutorial may be what you need. In this two part video tutorial, you'll be finding out how to install a hidden hitch on a 2005 Toyota Sienna. It may seem easy to do, but it can take a good number of hours to complete. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Change the oil on a John Deere X320 lawn mower

It's important to know that, like cars, lawn mowers need constant maintenance in order for them to work properly through the years. One of the most shared aspects between cars and lawn mowers is the oil. Knowing how to change the oild is very important and not doing so can lead to a machine that has to work twice as hard and can break easily. So in this tutorial, you'll be finding out how to change the oild on a John Deere X320. It's easy to follow and easy to do. Enjoy!

How To: Repair a broken washing machine agitator

If you have a broken washer machine and the agitator isn't working properly, this tutorial is what you'll need. In the video, you'll see how an agitator works and the parts inside can easily be replaced. It's a project that can take about an hour or two to complete and will save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Repair your washing machine pump, motor, and couplers

Calling someone to come out and repair your washing machine, can cost you quite a bit of money. So avoid having to call someone and do it yourself! With this helpful tutorial, you'll find out how to repair your washing machine's pump, motor, and couplers all in one video. You'll also find out how to remove the body of the machine as well as other parts. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Make and use compost

Interested in making and using your own compost? Fortunately, as this home gardening guide from the British National Trust demonstrates, it's quite easy to do. So easy, in fact, that this gardener's guide can present a complete overview of the process in just under four minutes' time. For details, and to get started making your own rich, fertile soil from your own garden and food scraps, take a look.

How To: Set up a hydroponic herb garden on your rooftop

Setting up a hydroponic herb garden might sound like a dauntingly big project but, as this clip demonstrates, it's much more manageable than you might expect. It's so straightforward, in fact, that this gardener's guide can present a complete and thorough overview of the process in just over three minutes' time. For more information, and to get started setting up your own rooftop hydroponic flower or vegetable garden, take a look!

How To: Build a tin can Stirling engine

The Stirling engine is a relatively old type of external combustion engine that has never really found a niche despite its unique advantages over conventional internal combustion engines. This video for the DIY-inclined will show you how to make your very own small Stirling engine out out of a tin can and some other basic materials. It may not power your house, but you will be able to amaze and educate your friends with this awesome little device.

How To: Make doing laundry easy

When doing the laundry, it's always important to know exactly what you should and shouldn't do. Knowing how to do things right can not only improve the overall look and feel of your clothes, but extend the life of them as well. So in this tutorial, you'll learn a few tips for making laundry more easier for you and others. Good luck and enjoy!

How To: Paint a wicker chair easily

Paint can do wonders to not only walls in a room, but certain furniture items as well. In this case, wicker chairs. These may be a bit more difficult to prep and paint since there are so many little cracks and openings that you have to get. So check out the tutorial above from Danny Lipford on how to paint a wicker chair easily. Good luck and enjoy!

How To: Apply epoxy sealer to your garage floor

Some people may not realize it, but epoxy can do wonders to a garage floor. Not only does it make it more sturdier, but it makes it much safer for people to work in by offering a slip free finish. This tutorial will show you how to apply an epoxy sealer to your garage floor today. It can be an easy project to complete, but requires time and dedication. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Easily save water by changing the faucet aerator

If you're looking for a quick and simple way to conserve water in your home, this next tutorial is one of the easiest and simplest ways. Changing the faucet aerator can take just only a few minutes and can save you money on your water bill. This tutorial will show you a quick look into how this works and what it can do for you and your home. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Make the best compost tea from scratch

The title may be a bit deceiving. This tutorial is going to be showing you how to make compost tea from scratch. No, you can't drink it yourself, but your plants will be sure to love it. This mixture of ingredients is perfect for growing big and beautiful plants and veggies. All you need to do is follow the instructions above and apply it to your garden today. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Spackle properly when renovating a room

When renovating a room, it's important to know how to spackle. This is important because it takes care of unwanted holes and lines that may bring down the look of a room. It's especially important to know how to spackle when installing new drywall. So in this helpful tutorial, you'll be finding out how to spackle properly when renovating a room. Good luck and enjoy!

How To: Design a small water feature in your yard

Installing a water feature in your yard is a great way to boost the value of your home. It's also a great way to create a nice and relaxing environment for you and others to enjoy. So in this tutorial, if you're looking for half of the work needed to create a large water feature, you'll be finding out how to make a small one. So check it out, good luck, and enjoy!

How To: Install sturdy gates in your yard

A common mistake when installing a gate in a yard, is that they're usually not sturdy. And when talking about sturdy it involved the the hinges used for the gate. This is an easy task that anybody can do and there is really no excuse for not installing a sturdy gate. So in this tutorial, you'll find out what you need to do in order to have a sturdy gate in your yard. Enjoy!

How To: Build an outdoor fireplace in your yard

There's nothing like spending time outdoors with loved ones. Whether it's a hot summer evening or a coo, brisk spring morning, the outdoors can be a great place. You can enhance your experience with the outdoors, by building yourself something that everybody is sure to love: a fireplace. In this helpful tutorial, you'll be finding out how to build an outdoor fireplace in your yard for those cold winter nights. So good luck and enjoy!

How To: Select the right wall color for your room

Choosing which paint is right for your room, is easier than it is today than in the past. Instead of just using paint swatches to help determine what color your room should be, buying paint samples from the store is a great way to see quick results. There are some other methods, too, when trying to select the right wall color for your room, so check out the video to find out more. Enjoy!

How To: Check property lines before putting a fence up

You may have all the tools and people needed for putting up a fence, but something that should not be skipped is coding. Checking the coding and property lines to your place is important for making sure you don't cross into a place that you aren't supposed to be. This can result in bad blood forming and the removal of your hard work. So check out what you'll need to do in order to prevent that, in this tutorial. Enjoy!

How To: Remove and replace grout

Once grout has been layed in between the tile, it's stuck there for a long time right? Well not necessarily. Grout can last for a long period of time, but if needed, it can be removed using the right tool. This is important, especially of you have any grout that may have become stained or damaged. For more information on how to remove the grout and how to replace it, check out the tutorial above. Good luck and enjoy!