Build A Picture Frame
The thin glass face can be custom cut to almost any practical size. Look in the Yellow Pages under "glass" or "picture frames" for a local source. Consider using Plexiglas with UV protection for displaying valuable images or objects. ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
A Guide To Single Family Home Mortgage Insurance
The mortgage loan is made by a bank, savings and loan association, mortgage company, credit union, or other FHA-approved lender. FHA (HUD) insures the loan and pays the lender if the borrower defaults on the mortgage. Because the lender is ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Prevent Damage From Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants damage wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Unlike termites, wood damaged by carpenter ants does not contain mud-like debris. Instead, carpenter ant nests have a smooth, sandpapered appearance. Carpenter ants typically establish ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
A Winter Storm Overview
Winter storms derive their energy from the clash of two air masses of very different temperature and moisture levels. In North America, winter storms typically form when an air mass of cold, dry Canadian air moves south and interacts with a warm, ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Downsizing Your Home: Rethinking Your Space And How You ...
Next, evaluate your space or space-to-be. Be open to possibilities. Plan kitchen cabinets to the ceiling or discover another use for this often-wasted top space. Think vertically. Seek possible areas for storage racks or wall-mounts. Televisions, ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Maintaining A Vegetable Garden
Each vegetable crop has unique nutrient needs throughout the growing season. Natural soil texture and fertility also play a role in when and how much additional fertilizer plants need. In general, you can fertilize transplanted vegetables ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Choose Your Lot Wisely
Soil drainage varies depending on the type of soil. Sands and gravels drain better than silts and clays, and this affects the project. If the native soil is sand or gravel, you can use soil from your excavation to backfill the foundation, placing ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Storm-Ready Home: Emergency Board Up
You will need a hand or circular saw, drill and drill bits, hammer and wrench. Don't forget to wear protective eye covering and gloves on this project. Be sure to purchase 5/8" or greater exterior grade (CDX) plywood. Plywood sheets are generally ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Stem Wall Foundations
A stem wall and integrated slab structure is more likely to maintain its integrity when water surges and winds pull. This type of construction is ideal for areas prone to high water, flooding, and storm surge. When high water comes, it moves ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Choosing Carpet: What To Look For Before You Buy
All carpet starts out as loop, but machine-cutting turns loop into cut pile. While pile may not be a factor in carpet performance, it is the key factor in carpet preference. The industry recognizes three textures of cut pile: plush, Saxony, and ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
A Closer Look At Quechee Lakes
5,200 acres nestled in the historic Ottauquechee River valley. That’s Quechee Lakes, Vermont, the ideal four-season, recreational community for carefree country living. Those who purchase a single-family home, townhome, or homesite receive an ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
Building An Inground Pool
Fiberglass pools are noted for their relatively quick installation, non-abrasive finish that resists staining, and inert composition that inhibits algae formation. Fiberglass pools are manufactured in a variety of shapes. The one you choose will ... [... more]
Bob Vila |
