Hot Home & Garden How-Tos
How To: Make a custom wall sconce out of an old hubcap
Wall sconces are a great way to give a room accent lighting. Do you find most of them a little too subtle though? Try making this bad boy. This video will show you how to make a custom wall sconce out of an old hubcap and a few brackets and screws. Quick, easy, and badass home decorating.
How To: Choose the right type of wall anchors and install them in drywall
Drywall is all over America, and that means wall anchors are also pretty ubiquitous as a means of keeping our pictures and shelves from destroying these fragile walls. This video explains the different types of wall anchors you have to choose from and how to install them yourself.
How To: Install a deadbolt lock in a wooden door
Deadbolt locks are some of the safest and simplest locks you can get. If you have a wooden door that lacks one, you're in luck, because this video will show you how to install a deadbolt in any wooden door using a template, a large drill, a screwdriver. and a router or chisel.
How To: Remove ink stains from cloth using hand sanitizer
If you have little kids, then you probably know that they LOVE drawing and doodling. But it's when that love of doodling extends beyond the preschool classroom and paper to your walls, furniture, and clothes that things go a bit awry.
HowTo: Grow Psychadelic Roses
Admittedly rainbow dyed roses are pretty tacky, but the idea of "mutation" is cool. And the HowTo behind it seems simple enough. Pick Chur explains:
How To: Install dry acoustic flooring with Fermacell
In this video, we learn how to install dry acoustic flooring with Fermacell. To start, you will level the floor and apply compound if you need. Next, you will lay the Fermacell around the room on top of the leveling compound. Push the flooring tightly together so there are no spaces in between them. You may need to cut the flooring to make sure it's the correct shape for the wall. After this, apply flooring adhesive to the seams to make sure they are secure as they are laid down. After this, ...
How To: Remove water spots from chrome
In this video, we learn how to remove water spots from chrome. This is one of the hardest surfaces to get water stains off of, but it can be done easily. First, grab an empty spray bottle, vinegar, water, a rag, and a paper towel. Now, mix two parts of vinegar to one part of water and spray it onto the chrome item. Use the rag to wipe off the mixture, then continue to spray on once more. Do this around five times total, then use a paper towel at the end for the finishing look! You can use thi...
How To: Install a bath fan
In this tutorial, we learn how to install a bath fan. When you take a shower and don't have a bath fan, you are more likely to have mold or mildew in your bathroom. First, you need to determine the correct CFM for your bathroom, then you need to find a fan that is as loud or quiet as you want it to be. Choose if you want a quiet or loud one. After this, you will need to find out where to put the bath fan or check your current one to see if a new fan will fit inside!
How To: Save time & money at the grocery store
In this video, we learn how to save time and money at the grocery store. At holiday time, grocery shopping can be extra tough. First, make sure you bring your own reusable bags. Then, place in your soda and water in the cart first so you don't have to re-arrange. Make a list before you go to the grocery store so you don't wander around the store. Also, see if you can place your deli order ahead of time so you don't have to wait around. Have your grocery clerk group like items together so unpa...
How To: Fertilize your lawn
In this video, we learn how to fertilize your lawn. First, you need to pick out what kind of fertilizer you need. You need to know how to read the numbers that are on the bag, so you can choose the right kind for you. After this, go to the store and look at the different fertilizers that are in stock. Look at the back of the bag and read to see if it's the correct type for your project. After this, look up the right time to apply the fertilizer to your project. When spreading it, make sure it...
How To: Use solar thermal microgeneration
Solar Thermal Microgeneration may be used to reduce your hot water bill, fossil fuel use, and lower your carbon footprint. For water heating, water is collected from solar panels. It is used to heat the water, as it filters through the water heater. Some areas require all new homes to provide an energy rating to buyers. Solar thermal panels harness the suns energy and reducing the need for fossil fuels to heat water. You will need the combination of solar panels, a traditional water heater, a...
How To: Kill bed bugs with a ThermaPure heat system
In order to use ThermaPure heat system to eradicate bedbugs, you will need a professional, with the appropriate equipment, including surface temperature readers.
How To: Replace the line on a STIHL trimmer Head
In this video, we learn how to replace the line on a STIHL trimmer head. First, remove the spool from the head by stopping the engine and cutting attachment first. Then, grasp the body and insert your thumb into the tab on the head, then rotate around and press on the second tab. After this, press down on the spool and release it from the housing. Now, remove the star nut to remove the head completely. Now, you can replace it with a new one. After this, replace the parts that you took out and...
How To: Kill bed bugs in the workplace
Bed bugs appearing in the office space is becoming more and more common. Often, someone brings a bed bug to the office on their clothes, and the bed bug roams away from the garment. These don't normally turn into reproducing infestation.
How To: Cut a bolt and save the threads
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to cut a bolt and save the threads. The materials required for this task are: a hacksaw, steel bristle brush, bolt cutters, wrench, oil and a filer. Begin by putting some oil onto the threads of the bolt. Then place the saw on the desired groove and cut across through the thread. Now brush it with the steel bristle brush to remove the debris. Finish by removing the excess metal with the filer and unscrew the bolt(s). This video will benefit those view...
How To: Decorate for the holidays fast & easy
In this video, the editors at Good Housekeeping Magazine teach us how to decorate for the holidays quickly and easily. The first decoration you can do is to make a Minora. To do this, you will first take a glass candle holder and fill it up with green rocks until it's 1/3 of the way full. After this, place a tapered candle in it and keep filling with rocks until the candle stands straight. You can also purchase clear bulbs and fill them with a sprig of greenery and red beads. After this, clos...
How To: Carve & sand tiki wood
In order to carve a Mexican Sand Palm, in order to make your own tiki, you will need the following: safety equipment, a sanding block, several different grits of sand paper, and electric sander.
How To: Repair a defective ceiling fan light switch
In this video, we learn how to repair a defective ceiling fan light switch with Richard Wright. There are two types of switches: two wire and three wire, grab the one you need and tools to help you replace your light switch. Now, disconnect the power at the breaker panel and get started by removing the weighted poles on the chain. Next, remove the globes and bulbs, then set aside. Get inside the light by inserting your screwdriver into it and pulling the light kit apart. The inner workings wi...
How To: Install tile in your home using SimpleMat
In this video, we learn how to install tile in your home using SimpleMat. SimpleMat is a double sided adhesive mat that is designed to set tile on an existing counter top. Adding tile is a very easy way to add value to your home or give it a quick face lift. To apply, first remove the back of the adhesive, then apply it to the surface. Next, you will remove the protective tile and you can start to lay down your tile to the adhesive. Press it down where you want them and adjust them if needed....
How To: Treat bed bugs with inspections & follow-up
In this video, we learn how to treat bed bugs with inspections and follow-up. First, you want to take off all your bedding and sheets, then place it into a bag. After this, you need to clean it in burning hot water to make sure the bugs are all killed. After you have removed this, you need to search the mattress to find where the rest of the bed bugs are at. Check around the headboard to see if the bugs are hiding there. Once you find these, you need to use either professional chemicals or a ...
How To: Repair stripped screw holes in wood
In order to repair stripped screw holes in wood, you will need the following, a hammer, screws, matches, awl, a flat headed punch, a utility knife, and side cutters.
How To: Update your living room
In this video, we learn how to update your living room. First, you can paint your living room with premium colors to give it a richer look. Crown molding will also change the look of the room after you paint. Window treatments will also give your home a nicer look, adding in dimension. Invest in table lamps, which will encourage your guests to sit down and relax. Also, changing the door to your dining room will add a classy touch as well! If you can afford it, upgrading the carpet will add a ...
How To: Install Warmup's underfloor heating cable system
In order to install Warmups Underfloor heating system, you will need the following: a Warmup Thermostat, a Warmup Kit, RCD, a multimeter, a permanent marker, measuring tape, tape, and scissors.
How To: Make your bed super cozy with the proper mattress, sheets & comforter
The foundation of a bed is really the mattress itself. So, that means that money should not matter when dealing with mattresses. You should invest in the best and highest quality mattress you can find. If you can spring for the ultimate mattress, a good option is the featherbed, or a memory foam. Then, to make your bed even more comfortable, there's the sheets and the comforters. To learn more about the blankets and other goodies to make the perfect bed, watch this Chatelaine video. Oh… and d...
How To: Make your home more energy and water efficient
Are your electricity and water bills comparable with that of Raging Waters? Then it's probably the right time to consider how to save on your energy and water bill by taking small steps like assessing where you're at in your home, having an energy audit, and eliminate leaky faucets.
How To: Paint a faux rug effect on your wood floors
Bored with your wood floors? Want to trick your guests? Well then set yourself up with a faux rug! This video will show you the steps to not only painting it yourself, but creating the desired "fabric" effect in your paint.
How To: Use and operate a Bosch diamond core drill to put a hole in your wall
In this great video, you'll learn what tools you'll need, what settings you'll need to use for each section of the project, and he'll go through the entire process, step-by-step, with personal demonstrations with plenty of commentary to help anyone keep up.
How To: Operate a chainsaw and limb a tree
This quick video shows you the method for holding and operating a chain saw and also shows you how to correctly limb a tree, as well as what sort of cuts to use and what you should watch out for in the process.
How To: Plant a crimson queen Japanese Maple tree
This video gives an insight not only into planting a beautiful Japanese Maple Tree, but also other tree's as well. Learn how to dig a proper hole, fertilizer suggestions, mulching and burying. Be sure to watch carefully! Featuring Arborist Gary Overton.
How To: Draw a professional rough layout for a wooden chest of drawers
With any sort of woodworking, you need to make sure that your rough layout looks perfect. Any slight mistake and you'll be crying all the way back to the lumber yard. This video will show you how to set up your rough layout and some tips on where to start your drawing and where not to draw.
How To: Cut and glue PVC pipes for sump pump system installations
This video from Basement Watchdog will help you with cutting and gluing the PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) pipes for their sump pump systems (backup or primary or combo), but this video also applies to all applications where PVC conduit is needed. Learn how to saw a pipe in a straight line, prime pipes, attach pipes to connectors and more.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump system
Having a backup sump pump is integral in making sure your basement is always protected from water, and if you have the Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump system, this video will show you the complete installation procedure. Find out how to build a pipe connection to the discharge pipe, install check valves, connect to the backup system and more.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog AC-powered sump pump system
A sump pump is a necessity for most homeowners with basements, and if you've just gotten yourself a Basement Watchdog AC sump pump, this video will show you how to install it. This is a full sump pump, AC-powered, that you can install in your basement, either as a first time sump pump or a replacement sump pump. Find out how to remove the old sump pump, prevent air locks, insert the AC pump and connect it to the discharge pipe correctly.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog combo (primary and backup power) sump pump system
If you want to make sure your sump pump is always working properly, a backup battery would be a good idea. But Basement Watchdog actually makes a combination sump pump power system that controls you primary (AC) power and has a backup battery (DC) for emergencies. This video shows you how to install the complete combo sump pump system to make sure the flooding never starts. Find out how to assess the sump pit, install the combo system, connect the sump pump to the standby battery and more. Ke...
How To: Fill a Basement Watchdog sump pump backup battery with initial fluid
For some homeowners, having a backup battery for their sump pump is important for making sure a loss of power doesn't cause a flood in the basement. And if you have yourself a standard new Basement Watchdog sump pump battery backup, before you can use it, you have to fill it up with the right amount of fluid. These batteries do not come with the fluid already inside, because it lessens the life of the battery. This video will show you the precautions and methods you should take in filling eac...
How To: Make your air conditioning as efficient as possible
Everyone is looking for a way to reduce their energy bill when it comes to heating and central air conditioning. The key to a low bill is to make sure your house's system is running efficiently. Check or replace your filters, regularly clean vents and maintain your thermostat at a reasonable temperature.
How To: Choose the plants best suited to your home garden
So you want to start a home garden in your backyard? Make sure you pick the best plants and flowers for your garden by considering climate, soil composition and growing seasons for what you want to cultivate. Know the difference between annuals and perennials, and master home gardening techniques so your garden can thrive beautifully!
How To: Pick the right drill bit for your project
The success of a woodworking or carpentry project is often dependent on being able to pick and use the right drill bit. Drill bits come all sorts of styles, sizes and materials. Pick the right bit for your project and budget.
How To: Help seeds grow faster by nicking them
Most seeds have a thick outer shell meant to protect the soft inner seed. 'Nicking' is a gardening technique to remove the outer shell so the seed will germinate faster in your garden after planting. You can use water, sandpaper, a nail file or even sulfuric acid to nick your seeds.
How To: Redecorate a room by painting stripes on your walls
Tired of boring solid or white walls? You don't have to pay for an expensive remodeling job! You can add some color and brighten up any room with this quick and helpful interior decoration tip. Use two or more colors to paint stripes on your walls and add a splash of color to any room.