ArcaMax

Add an Efficient Screen/Storm Door Yourself

Dear James: I need to add a durable screen/storm door because we now have a dog. What design of door is best for a big dog owner, and can I install one myself? -- Ed P.

Dear Ed: Your dog will probably enjoy having a screen door to relax by during nice weather. Dogs, especially large ones, can really ...Read more

Dear James: I have quite a few repair projects to do around my house. I went to buy nails, but I was overwhelmed by the variety. Which ones are best for which projects? -- Debbie T.

Dear Debbie: It can be overwhelming to walk down the fastener aisle and see all the types, sizes and materials of nails available. Using the proper fastener can ...Read more

Dear James: The ornate solid brass bathroom fixtures in my old house are tarnished but still work fine. I cannot find identical replacements. How can I restore them? -- Reilly K.

Dear Reilly: It is not surprising you cannot find new ones with similar ornate designs, so refinishing them is your best option if you really like them. The other ...Read more

Dear James: I am setting up a computer station for my children. It needs additional lighting. Would recessed lighting be good and do you have installation tips? -- Jamie L.

Dear Jamie: For task lighting over a computer work area, recessed LED lighting is an excellent choice. Having the light focused down from overhead is ideal for a computer ...Read more

Dear James: Our dining room drywall has been damaged over the years. Instead of repairing it, I want to install wainscoting. Is this a job for a typical DIY'er? -- Andy H.

Dear Andy: Installing wainscoting on a dining room wall is not a difficult do-it-yourself project, but it is not inexpensive either. Several companies make wainscoting kits ...Read more

Dear James: There have been break-ins in my neighborhood, so I want to install glass block windows for security. What are some tips for installing mortar-type glass blocks? -- Nina D.

Dear Nina: Complete glass block window installation kits are available, but it is not difficult to do it yourself using individual glass blocks and mortar. This ...Read more

Dear James: Our ugly old kitchen cabinets are falling apart, so I want to try to make my own. What are the best wood joint designs to use so they hold up better? -- Chris P.

Dear Chris: Making your own kitchen cabinets is a great project in which you can express your own individuality and personality. Even if you have to go out and buy some new...Read more

Dear James: I'm moving into my first house, and it needs some work. I don't have any tools. What type of hand tools should I buy to get my own toolbox started? -- Holli W.

Dear Holli: Even if you are moving into a new house, you will find many needed projects that require basic hand tools and a few simple power tools. Buy a toolbox which is ...Read more

Dear James: Our half bathroom needs an upgrade and a new toilet. I want a more expensive stylish one, so I need to save by installing it myself. Do you have any tips?? -- Brian S.

Dear Brian: Replacing a toilet is a relatively simple project, and it can make a dramatic improvement in the appearance of your bathroom. The most difficult part will...Read more

Dear James: I went out to buy some lumber for some home projects. I was overwhelmed by the different kinds of lumber. What do the different grades and types of lumber mean? -- Bobbi T.

Dear Bobbi: Lumber is more than just a tree cut up into boards. There are many species of trees with different characteristics. Also, the methods in which the ...Read more

Dear James: We plan to have a house built. I think I have a pretty good eye for design and decor, but do you think it is still a good idea to hire an interior designer? -- Bernie G.

Dear Bernie: In addition to looking through magazines and visiting home shows yourself to get an idea of what you want, involving an interior designer does make ...Read more

Dear James: I'm on a limited budget, but I would like a parquet hardwood floor in my dining. Is that a project I can do myself to reduce the overall cost? -- Judy S.

Dear Judy: You will find parquet flooring "kits" which are intended for the average do-it-yourselfer. It is much easier to lay a parquet floor than a standard strip floor. The ...Read more

Dear James: My fireplace does not draw well, and the room gets smoky sometimes. I am adding another fireplace. What construction tips are important so the flue draws better? -- Tyler F.

Dear Tyler: Your smoking wood-burning fireplace in your living room unfortunately is a very common problem. Once a room has filled with smoke from a fireplace, ...Read more