Hot Home & Garden How-Tos
How To: Prep plywood subfloor for hardwood & laminate with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to prep plywood subfloor for hardwood and laminate with Lowe's. Before you prep your floor, read the manufacturers direction and information on the flooring. After this, gather all of your materials and tools you need to complete the job. Then, measure out the floor to figure out how much material you will need. Take off all the carpet and base boards from the room, then clean off the floor from dirt or dust. When finished, cover the subfloor with the right type...
How To: Get rid of fruit flies cruelty-free
In this tutorial, we learn how to get rid of fruit flies cruelty-free. First, you will need to put a sweet mixture of things that the flies like to eat inside of a cup. After this, place a cylinder piece of paper into the cup. The flies will be able to fly into the bottom of the paper to get what's inside, but most likely won't figure out how to get back out of it. After this, you can let the flies go free and you will have let them survive without killing a ton of them! This is also free of ...
How To: Get rid of mice using a mouse trap
In this tutorial, we learn how to get rid of mice using a mouse trap with Rick. You will first need to know where to place the traps. Mice like to use the sides of walls to run around and will turn when they reach dead end corners. These are great places to place the traps so you will most likely trap them. If the mice are familiar with an area, they know where to avoid, so using two traps will help you catch them. Next, place the trap perpendicular to the wall instead of parallel so they wil...
How To: Repair cracks and holes in drywall with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to repair cracks and holes in drywall with Lowe's. Drywall can be damaged in a number of ways, but can be fixed easily. If you have a medium size hole in the wall, first place caulking on it and then smooth it out. If you have a larger area, you will need to use a sanding strip around it to smooth out the area and all around it. Use drywall compound to fill in the area that is empty. Then, smooth over it with a flat tool then paint over it with the same color pa...
How To: Install a pebble tile wall with Lowe's
In this video, we learn how to install a pebble tile wall with Lowe's. First, you will need to measure out your walls to figure out how much of the tile you need. Now, lay down a drop cloth on the floor so you don't get the floor messy. Next, turn the power off and remove the outlet cover and outlet from the wall. After this, wash the walls so they are clean, then apply your waterproof sealant from top to the bottom. Apply two full coats and make sure they dry completely before you move on. N...
How To: Install a new mailbox post and box with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to install a new mailbox post and box with Lowe's. First, you will need to gather all your tools and a new mailbox. After this, print out directions for the project through the Lowe's website. Now, call 811 to call your utility company to make sure you aren't digging through an electrical line. Mail boxes have a specific height they need to be installed at, so make sure you follow these guidelines. After this, dig out the hold from the ground, then fill in grave...
How To: Laminate stairs
In this tutorial, we learn how to laminate stairs. First, you will need to grab your laminate and measure out the stairs. Then, cut out the nosing to the stairs. After this, you will need to cut out the laminate with a chop saw to place it on the front of the stairs so it looks nice and is fully covered on the stairs. You will need to place down glue on the laminate then press it down on the stairs and allow to dry. Behind the front piece you will place another piece of laminate and glue it d...
How To: Replace and install a kitchen faucet with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to replace and install a kitchen faucet with Lowe's. Start out and check to see how many pipes you have underneath your faucet. After this, purchase your new faucet and all of the parts that go along with it. Once you have all of these, turn off your water and remove your old faucet. You will need to use screwdrivers and wrenches to remove the handles and the rest of the faucet parts. Once you have this done, insert in your new faucet and all of the appropriate ...
How To: Know the pros & cons of laminate flooring
In this tutorial, we learn how to know the pros & cons of laminate flooring. The difference between laminate floor and wood floor is mainly the cost and quality. Laminate flooring will withstand damage better than regular oak flooring can take. But, laminate flooring does not do well if you spill water on top of it. Once the water gets on the edges and stays there for a while it will end up swelling the floor up so it becomes larger than the rest of the flooring. Other than that, laminate is ...
How To: Build deck stairs
In this tutorial, we learn how to build deck stairs. First, you need to level out your work space and then use a tape measure to see how high your stairs will be from the top of the deck to the stairs. After you have these measurements, take your pieces of wood and use a framing square to measure out the pieces of the wood for the steps. After you have done this, you will need to place your piece of wood on the sides to create support, then create indentations inside of them. Place the wood i...
How To: Replace and install a toilet with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to replace and install a toilet with Lowe's. To get started, you will first need to turn off the water to your home, then take measurements around the toilet. Next, remove the top of the tank, then flush the toilet and remove excess water. After this, remove the water from the bowl using a sponge or towel. When finished, disconnected the water supply line and drain the water into a bucket. Now, leave the tank connected to the bowl and remove the bowl caps. Loose...
How To: Prepare surfaces before painting with Lowe's
In this video, we learn how to prepare surfaces before painting with Lowe's. First, you will need to place a drop cloth on the floor and apply painter's tape to all the outlets and spots you don't want paint to touch. After this, clean off the walls and remove all the dust and debris, including nails. Next, grab the paint you need along with brushes and paint rollers. Remove any wallpaper that is on your wall, then start to paint. Pour the paint into the tray, then use the roller dipped in pa...
How To: Grow a culinary herb garden
In this tutorial, we learn how to grow a culinary herb garden. This will save you money in the kitchen and is very easy to do! You can grow herbs in a 6 square feet area that only needs watered for around 10 minutes each day. You just need to make sure to cut out the flowers that will grow inside them. You can grow chives, rosemary, mint, basil, and thyme. You can use all of these inside the kitchen for all of your different dishes. This will save you a small fortune, because herbs at the gro...
How To: Use the Stanley utility knife
In this tutorial, we learn how to use the Stanley utility knife. This is a razor straight edge knife that has a very sharp point on it. The little slices in the bottom will help it go back into place and will help you sharpen it when it becomes dull. You can break off the points as well when they become dull so you have a brand new sharp one. The tool in the back has a storage area for another blade. To take this out, you just slide out the old one and insert the new one in the same exact way!
How To: Paint with basic latex painting techniques with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to paint with basic latex painting techniques with Lowe's. First, you will need to determine how much paint you need by figuring out the room size. Next, you will need to paint the ceiling and apply blue painter's tape to all the areas you don't want paint to touch. Make sure to stir the paint before you use it and open up windows and fans to circulate the air. Cut the edges by painting around 2" inside first. Once finished with the ceiling, start cutting the ed...
How To: Install a laminate closet organizer with Lowe's
In this video, we learn how to install a laminate closet organizer with Lowe's. First, you will need to gather all your tools for installation and for the closet. After you have all of these, you need to anchor your units to the walls, removing the base boards from the wall first. After you have the brackets into the wall and the shelves installed, you can start to add in brackets for the rest of the closet. Once you have the tower unit or corner unit finished, install the expandable rods to ...
How To: Start an urban living indoor garden during the winter
In this tutorial, we learn how to start an urban living indoor garden during the winter. You can easily place a shelving unit over the side of a window sill. This will also need a fastener attached to it to give it extra support. After this, you will need to install florescent tubes at the top of the shelving to help your indoor garden grow. Use small plastic bins to plant your seedlings in. These are perfect for a small greenhouse that you can place on the shelves and leave to grow with just...
How To: Install laminate floor under a door
In this tutorial, we learn how to install laminate floor under a door. First, take your floor and pop it into place like you do for the entire floor. Then, take a piece of scrap and place on the end. After this, grab a tool and push it into the door with a hammer until it reaches underneath the door. Once you have this finished, it will give you a nice and clean look on your floor. Make sure you don't miss with the hammer and hit the flooring, so you don't cause cracks in it at all. To finish...
How To: Wash, stain & seal an outdoor deck with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to wash, stain & seal an outdoor deck with Lowe's. First, determine the type of stain for your project, there are four main types of finishes. Check the instructions to calculate the amount of stain you need to purchase. To start, you will need to clean and dry the deck, making sure you cover your body before you begin. You will also need to use sand paper to even out the surface of the deck. After this, start to seal your deck with your choice of color. Let thi...
How To: Use a handheld router with Skil & Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to use a handheld router with Skil & Lowe's. There are countless ways to use the router in all your project, but there is one that's the most popular. You have a lot of choices, like a round over, a chamfer, or an ogee. Regardless of which you choose, the technique is always the same. Begin with mounting the bit in the router, then use a wrench to tighten it and make it secure. After the bit is on, reinstall the base and you will be ready to use your machine. Us...
How To: Improve the air quality in your home with Lowe's
In this video, we learn how to improve the air quality in your home with Lowe's. First you need to go through your house and search to see how clean the furnace filter is. Make sure this is clean and replace it if it's dirty. Upgrade it to a high performance model if you are able to. You also need to change the filter in your vacuum and make sure it has a HEPA filter installed in it. Also, make sure you check the vents around your home and clean them out or replace them if they are dirty. Doi...
How To: Remove fruit flies from a home
In this tutorial, we learn how to remove fruit flies from a home. If you have a heavy infestation of these flies, you will need to use PT 565 aerosols. Spray the aerosol for around 15 seconds in the spot that the flies are harboring. Open up cabinets so the product can get inside through the air. Then, move to other rooms and fog these with the spray to make sure you get all areas. Leave the area for a few hours to let the spray set in, then use drain gel which will clear out the flies from t...
How To: Install exterior motion-sensor lights with Lowe's
In this tutorial by Lowe's, we learn how to install exterior motion-sensor lights with Lowe's. First, you will need to pick out what kind of motion sensor light you want. Most of the kits you purchase will come equipped with all the things you need, you will just need to supply the hardware. You will need: a screwdriver, circuit tester, electrical tape, silicone caulk, work gloves, and safety glasses. Open up the package and find the directions inside of it. After this, turn off the electrici...
How To: Strip wallpaper easily
In this tutorial, we learn how to strip wallpaper easily. First, you will need to take a wallpaper stripper and run it along the wall so you cover all of the spots that it touches. After you have done this, run the stripper diagonally along the wall, then spray the wall with some warm water mixed with dish washing soap. Once finished spraying, use a flat metal putty tool to pry the wallpaper from the walls. Once you tear it off in one spot, you should be able to remove larger pieces. Once fin...
How To: Fix a leaking faucet
In this tutorial, we learn how to fix a leaking faucet. You will need: a utility knife, screwdriver, Allen key, socket wrench, and adjustable wrench. After you have these, turn off the water to your house. Then, cover your drain so you don't have any parts fall down it. After this, use your screwdriver to take the handles on the faucet off. Then, use your socket wrench to remove the screws from the insides of the handles. Next, use the Allen key to remove the inside gasket from the inside and...
How To: Repair and seal an asphalt driveway with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to repair and seal an asphalt driveway with Lowe's. First, make sure you wear appropriate clothing and have taken all the safety precautions before starting. Now, brush off all the dirt from the driveway, then clean it and scrub off any oil spots from the asphalt. After this, patch any cracks that are in the asphalt with crack filler. Allow this to cure according to the directions, now get ready to seal the driveway. Grab your asphalt sealer and brush it over th...
How To: Remove vinyl wallpaper
In this tutorial, we learn how to remove vinyl wallpaper. First, take your putty knife and slide it underneath the wallpaper. Once you do this, you will be able to see the paper and put water on the wall to help remove the paper. Tear the wallpaper down in large chunks until it's all completely gone from the wall. Make sure you wet the wallpaper as well, because this will help it come off more easily. Let the wall dry before you paint it or add on new wallpaper, then you can decorate how you ...
How To: Prep and paint kitchen cabinets with Lowe's
In this tutorial by Lowe's, we learn how to prep and paint kitchen cabinets yourself! First, you will want to make sure you don't have laminate or tile countertops, because these can simply be replaced. After this, you will need to use sandpaper to sand down the surface of the cabinets. Next, you will need to paint primer on the surface of the cabinets, making sure you get into the creases of them as well. Now, paint over the primer once it has dried with your choice of glossy paint. After th...
How To: Install shelves to organize a closet with Lowe's
In this video, we learn how to install shelves to organize a closet with Lowe's. A wire closet system is a great way to organize a closet, but you first need to map out your space and where you want things to go. After this, it's time to install. All you need to do is place in the brackets, then level them and screw them into the wall. After this, you can place on the holders for the shelves wherever you would like to place them. Next, you will be able to place the shelves on and then place y...
How To: Get latex paint stains out of carpet
Latex paint is bright and durable, which makes it great on most surfaces but terrible to get on your carpet. Watch this video to learn an involved but not too hard process your can use to get latex paint out of any rug or carpet.
How To: Install laminate flooring in your home
In this tutorial, we learn how to install laminate flooring in your home. First, you want to inspect all your flooring. Clean your floor and then remove baseboards around the room. Lay down your underlayment before you begin, then lay down your flooring where you would like it. As you snap the pieces into place, you can use a hammer and positioning tool to ensure they are tight together. After you do this, you may have to saw some pieces to make sure they all fit together. When finished, you ...
How To: Make a spinning three-way picture frame with old video game DVD cases
Create your own spinning picture frame with just a few dust-collecting items in your home! This video from Nextraker will show you how to build this interesting three-way picture frame, consisting of 6 open photo slots. You can simply put it on a hard surface, or you can make it spin 'round and 'round with a CD spindle.
How To: Build a raised flower or garden bed with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to build a raised flower or garden bed with Lowe's. First, you need to decide what you want your bed built with. There should be enough support for the soil and plants, along with being in a good place so it will reach the sun all over. Make sure there is 6" of soil at the bottom so there is enough room for the plants to grow. Once you have everything constructed, you will be able to plant in your flowers or vegetables. Make sure you pay attention and water them...
How To: Grout tile in your custom tiled shower
In this tutorial, we learn how to grout tile in your custom tiled shower. First, you need to score away anything in between the seams of the tile. Now, grab a bag of sanded grout mixture and grout enhancer. Next, wash the surface of the tile with a damp sponge to take off any impurities. Then, mix half the bag with half the enhancer and stir until combined. Use a tool to rub the mixture onto the walls and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Now, go over the area with the mixture and go over it wit...
How To: Clean and prevent lime scale in your shower
Lime scale is one of the three most common types of dirt to afflict your shower. It is hard to get rid of and prevent, but not impossible, and this video will teach you chow chemicals and hard work can keep your shower beautiful.
How To: Plant and grow plump red tomatoes in garden containers
Does your green thumb look more like a brown thumb? Not all of us were blessed with Martha Stewart's gardening skills, and that's totally okay. If you're seriously interested in growing your own food, whether in a large garden or a small balcony garden area, you'll get some great tips on how to do it in this video.
How To: Install LED lighting under kitchen cabinets
Want to illuminate your kitchen into perfection? Perfection doesn't cost a ton of money, and doesn't require a skilled electrician for installation. If you have a yearning for LED lighting in your kitchen, this video will show you the easy process of installing it on and under cabinets, controlled by only one switch. You'l need a LED power supply, stick LED, tape LED, and some other lights. This video is specifically for Hera lighting, but if you're using other LED lights, the process could w...
How To: Properly grow asparagus in your garden
Growing your own vegetables are a cheap alternative to going out to the grocery store and buying it. Plus, it will taste much better and you will feel better about yourself as you eat them! If you're looking to grow Asparagus but aren't really sure where to start, check out this video. In it you will learn the best environment to grow them in and what the fastest way is to get the best result.
How To: Stock your refrigerator the right way to keep foods fresh and uncontaminated
Your refrigerator is designed to keep your food free of mold and bacteria, but they aren't perfect for the task. Storing your good in the refrigerator in the right places will make your fridge much more effective, and this video will show you how to do it.
How To: Clean old antique and regular mirrors
If you've got a large antique mirror or maybe just a regular mirror that needs some cleaning, if you just clean it with whatever you feel like you run the risk of smudging or scratching the mirror. In this video you will learn how to properly clean the mirror without scratching or smudging it.