Your pristine garage floor won’t stay that way for long without a protective coating. Epoxy coatings help keep your garage floor beautiful by protecting it from oil stains, gasoline spills, and more. Epoxy coatings are also available with anti-skid additives that can be your best friend during a rough winter.
Applying Epoxy to Your Garage Floor
Putting an epoxy coat on your garage floor is easier than you might think. These simple steps can be done in a weekend and can give you a garage you’re happy to show off!
- Prepare the garage floor very carefully. Repair all cracks, potholes, and other imperfections. Make certain the floor is scrupulously clean in order to have the perfect epoxy coating when you’re done.
- Apply plastic sheeting to the lower sections of the walls and seal it with painter’s tape. Check the floor one more time to make certain it is completely clean.
- Use an etching solution on new or bare concrete. Work in small sections, and take the proper precautions around the chemicals. Allow the solution to dry thoroughly before continuing.
- Blend the epoxy paint and epoxy hardener according to package directions. Be aware that the chemicals heat up as they react; this is normal. Set the can in a cool, dark place for 30 minutes or so.
- You must use the epoxy within two hours, so work quickly to paint the garage floor. Use a wide paintbrush to cut into seams, edges, and corners. Keep the area well-ventilated!
- Roll the paint onto the floor, covering small sections at a time, just as you would paint a wall in your home. Let it dry for 12 to 24 hours before you apply a second coat.
- As you apply the final coat of paint, pause after every section to apply the colorful flakes. Sprinkle them evenly through your fingers as if you were spreading seed on the floor.
- Mix the topcoat just as you mixed the hardener and epoxy. Let it sit for 30 minutes before use. If you want to use anti-skid additives, mix them in with the topcoat.
- Apply the topcoat in the same way you applied the epoxy paint. It has a chalky color when wet, but don’t worry–it dries perfectly clear.
Wait for up to 72 hours before walking on your new garage floor. When the topcoat has finished curing, your garage floor is gorgeous and ready!
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10 Interesting Ideas for New Storage Areas
April 27th, 2010 by admin
Small homes can be charming, but all that charm can offer unique challenges, especially in the storage department. That’s why those who love small houses have to get creative! These ideas can help you find the hidden storage options in your home:
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Build a storage area underneath the stairs.
That dead space underneath the stairs would make a great bookcase, built-in chest of drawers, and even a wine rack.
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Long sitting benches in the hallway double as great storage units.
A long, high bench can offer deep storage options while adding space to sit and rest a spell.
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Try a floor-to-ceiling bookcase at the end of the stairway landing.
The large bookcase offers not only great storage, but a nice way to showcase your favorite things.
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Consider a “through the wall” bookcase.
A bookcase that fits into the middle of a wall, with sides open to two rooms instead of one, turns your actual wall into unexpected storage space.
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Lift up your beds!
Put your beds on 12-inch risers, then use the space underneath for handy clothes trunks and rolling storage bins. You can have plenty of extra space without doing any construction on your home.
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Look up at the ceilings.
A long shelf about a foot below the ceiling, or a shelf tucked right over a door can make for great storage of those little things you like to display, but really can’t find the room for elsewhere.
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Make space do double-duty.
Does that breakfast nook fit the kitchen perfectly, but your office area is a bit too close for comfort? Consider moving breakfast to the eat-in kitchen and turning that area into your office. It might not be the most conventional plan, but it’s a creative option!
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Opt for cabinets with built-in storage features.
That lazy susan in the corner cabinet or that fold-out pantry beside the sink are all unexpected ways to make unused kitchen spaces work for your storage needs.
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Make creative use of your attic.
Create a small playroom, office area, or built-in bookcases that fill the entire attic knee space.
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Look inside your closets.
Do you have space for shelves above the clothes racks? Consider installing shelves, boxes, and other storage options to your closets to hold the odds-and-ends that don’t seem to fit in well anywhere else.
Make creative use of your small house by incorporating storage into the most unlikely of places. When it comes to small houses and lots of stuff, don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
Easy Basement Renovations & Other Home Renovation Ideas
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7 Home Repairs that Simply Cannot Wait
April 1st, 2010 by admin
How often have you seen a small repair problem around your house and made a mental note to do something about it, but never got around to it? The longer you hold off on those minor home repairs, the bigger they could become, and then you have a serious financial issue.
Small Repairs to Make Right Now!
Don’t fall into the trap of paying big bucks for a major repair that would have cost only a few dollars if you caught the problem in time. Here are a few repairs that require your quick attention:
- Dry and splintering wood floors. Over time, your wood floors can weather to a mellow patina–but without proper care, that handsome look can turn to splinters and dry, cracking wood. Avoid this with regular sanding and coats of polyurethane to protect the floor.
- Soft deck boards. Soft and bowed deck boards are a first sign of rot and instability. Inspect your deck by walking on every board, and if you feel one of them “give” a bit more than others, it’s time to replace it before the minor problem becomes a major hazard.
- Bowed or damaged clapboard. Clapboard that does not fit properly can let water in, leading to decay and insect damage. Inspect your clapboard regularly and replace any boards that are bowed or damaged.
- Peeling paint. Blistered or peeling paint can cause the wood underneath it to rot. Remedy this situation by putting a fresh coat of paint on all the areas that seem to be deteriorating.
- Gutter clogs. Clogged gutters can’t channel water away from your home like they should, and the result is often water damage to your foundation and exterior walls. Empty out your gutters every year during the spring and fall.
- Old caulking and grout. Old caulking might allow water in to the area around your tub and shower, leading to serious mold problems. Old grout can lead to water damage under your carefully-laid tiles. Avoid this by keeping your grout and caulk fresh and new.
- Unruly trees. If tree branches hang over your home, they can lead to significant damage during a storm. They also provide ample opportunity for squirrels, rats, and the like to invade your home. Avoid this major problem by trimming the trees that are a potential hazard.
Check every spring and fall for these minor repairs, and make them as quickly as you can. The sooner you follow up, the easier it is to keep your home looking beautiful.
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6 Steps to Choosing a Masonry Contractor
March 18th, 2010 by
If you have concrete, brick, stucco, or stone anywhere in or around your home, you might eventually need to hire a masonry contractor for repairs and renovations. But where should your search begin? These tips can help you get started on the road to project success!
Choosing a Masonry Contractor
Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing a masonry contractor based on a low bid for their project. Before you start accepting those bids, check out the contractors and create a short list of those you might like working on your property. Here are a few tips on narrowing the search:
- Educate yourself. Learn everything you can about the requirements of your project. Start by exploring online forums, renovation and building sites, and other interesting tidbits that show up in a search engine. The more you know about your project, the better prepared you are to hire the appropriate contractor to handle the job.
- Ask around. You can find a wealth of information from those who have dealt with the same home repair and improvement projects. Ask coworkers, friends, and family about their experiences. Approach your neighbors and ask about that great retaining wall they just had built, or the recent repairs on their stone wall. If they are happy with the job, put their contractor on your short list.
- Check for certification. The Mason Contractors Association of America offers a certification program for masonry companies. Certification requires completion of approved classes, a comprehensive exam, and continuing education to keep certification up-to-date.
- Reputation matters! Check out masonry companies with the Better Business Bureau. Look online for reviews, but keep in mind that anonymous reviews should be taken with a grain of salt. Speak to vendors or supply stores about the people you are considering; who would they recommend?
- Meet face-to-face. Invite each masonry contractor on your short list to come out and look at the project. Are they enthusiastic about handling the job? Do they try to pressure you into expanding the project? Do you get a good feeling about them and their abilities?
- Ask for bids. If you are impressed with a masonry contractor, ask for their bid on the project. Try to get at least three bids for the work, then compare them. Remember that the lowest is not always the best. Compare warranties, guarantees, and other factors that might make one contractor rise above the rest.
Get that masonry work done right the first time by hiring a certified, experienced masonry contractor. You’ll be glad you took the time to get the best!
8 Ideas for a Unique Basement Room
March 16th, 2010 by admin
Are you making good use of your basement? In many homes, that promising space is relegated to storage, and homeowners never realize its full potential. Make room for fun and unique style in your basement room! Consider these great options for turning your unused space into a well-loved haven.
- Consider an office. The basement space can be used to house a small business office. Built-in shelves make good use of tight spaces. Place a small desk under an existing window and perk the space up with a comfortable rug on the floor.
- Bounce into a playroom. Offer a place for your kids to play with their friends while staying out of your hair. Such a thing really is possible! Turn the basement into a playroom with a small climbing wall, plenty of colorful drawers for storage, and of course, toys galore.
- Turn it into a hobby shop. Are you tired of seeing those model pieces all over the kitchen table? Are you running out of room for your fabric and sewing essentials? Your basement makeover could give ample space for the things you love to do.
- Drink to the wine cellar. Line the entire basement with open wine racks, add a small refrigerator for incidentals, and don’t forget a cabinet for the wine glasses. If there is room for a sitting area, opt for comfortable chairs that invite guests to relax.
- Create an oasis for relaxation. Why bother to go to the spa when you have one in your very own home? Turn your basement into a steam room or sauna. Include all the elements of relaxation, and create a beautiful retreat that is just a few steps away.
- Get the room of a second bathroom. If your bathroom is crowded with everyone trying to get ready and out the door, ease the time crush by creating a basement bathroom. If you have plenty of room in your basement, consider adding laundry facilities, too.
- Create a home theater. A large projection screen or a big-screen television is the basis of your new home theater. Add plenty of comfortable chairs to make it a true theater experience.
- Turn to the classic gameroom. Add a pool table, pinball machines, and other fun games to balance the big-screen television and sporting decor on the walls. It’s a sporty area of fun!
Don’t let that ample space go to waste! Decide what you would love to have as your “bonus” room and then make it a reality with your basement space.
Wading Through the Storm Door Options
March 11th, 2010 by admin
Storm doors offer many benefits for your home. They improve security and offer a nice view, while optional screens allow fresh air to circulate. In addition, storm doors with the Energy Star label might help lower your energy bills and qualify for a tax credit or rebate.
Choosing the Best Storm Door
Not sure where to start when choosing a screen door? This quick primer can help:
- The vast majority of storm doors are sold as pre-hung units. Someone handy with a screwdriver could install a new storm door in an afternoon, though more expensive or heavy doors might need professional installation. Measure your door before you go shopping; most pre-hung doors are available in 30-, 32-, 34-, and 36-inch sizes.
- Most storm doors offer window screens. In some cases, the glass panel can be clipped out and replaced with the screen. Many models offer screens that slide on tracks alongside the glass panels, and can be opened and closed with a simple flick of the wrist. Other versions offer hidden screens, which can be slid into the lower panel of the door for storage.
- When you purchase a screen door, you aren’t limited to what is in the box. Many companies offer mix-and-match purchases. You choose the door, then the glass, and then the hardware–there are several options for each.
- Consider the construction of your storm door. Cheaper models are usually made of vinyl, and though they might look good, they don’t come with promising warranties. A solid wood core with an aluminum coating is a popular and sturdy option. Composite doors are very tough and last for a long time, but come at a higher price.
- Do you want a storm door that adds security to your home? Consider security storm doors with a wood core and heavy-duty aluminum frame. You can also opt for aluminum bars, which are both secure and decorative. A secure storm door should have excellent locking capability, as well.
- Look at the warranty. The best storm doors have a lifetime warranty, and are made by a company that has been around long enough to back it up!
When you choose your storm door, don’t forget to ask about a door kit. Several pre-hung storm doors come with a kit in the box, but if you aren’t sure, ask! Purchasing a door kit from the same manufacturer can ensure your door’s seamless performance.
10 Steps to a Perfect Caulking Repair Job
February 1st, 2010 by admin
Caulking around tubs and sinks is a simple task, but it is one of the most important home repair jobs you could handle. Water seeping into small cracks and crevices can quickly lead to thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home.
Steps for a Successful Caulking Project
Protect your investment with a little time and a good amount of high-quality caulk. Here’s how:
- Remove all the old caulking using a razor scraper and a utility knife, if necessary. Clean the entire area to remove all the old residue. Let it dry thoroughly before applying the caulk.
- Inspect the area where you have removed the caulk. If you see rotting wood or mold, you have a more serious repair job on your hands. Stop your work and call a professional handyman to help. If you don’t see damage, carry on!
- Cut the tip of the caulking tube at an angle, and puncture the nozzle’s seal. Load the tube into the caulking gun and press the plunger forward until it touches the back of the tube.
- Using both hands to keep the line steady, press the tip of the nozzle where you want to begin caulking and gently squeeze the trigger.
- When the caulk begins to flow, guide it along the edge, filling the area with a thick bead of caulk. Use firm, steady pressure.
- When you have filled an area, let go of the trigger. It might take a few seconds for the caulk to stop flowing.
- Now it’s time to shape the caulk. Dip your fingertip into a bit of mineral oil (or baby oil, if that’s what you have on hand) and run your finger over the caulking, smoothing out the bead. Take your time in spreading the caulk, but don’t press too hard–you want a thick seal.
- Wipe off excess caulking with a paper towel and continue along the bead until you have smoothed out the whole section.
- Repeat the process until you’ve caulked along the entire edge. Inspect your work and perform touch-ups if necessary.
- Don’t use any water in the area until the caulking has dried thoroughly. Depending upon the type of caulk used, the drying time could take a few days.
Finally, a bonus tip: If you are caulking a bathtub, fill the tub halfway with water while you work. The weight of the water pulls the tub away from the wall just the slightest bit, and makes for a tighter caulking job.
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
Easy Basement Renovations & Other Home Renovation Ideas
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Four Important Considerations Before Your Kitchen Remodel Begins
January 11th, 2010 by admin
You’ve saved. You’ve dreamed. Then you’ve saved a bit more. Now it’s time for that kitchen remodel you have been craving since the moment you bought your house!
It’s time to pick up the phone and get quotes from the professionals, but before you do that, take a good look at your plans. Choosing a kitchen remodeling contractor is only the first step. Many homeowners start a kitchen remodel and before long, they are in over their heads and the job is only half-finished.
What to Expect from Your Kitchen Remodel
Planning ahead is crucial. Before you choose a kitchen remodeling contractor, know what to expect from your kitchen remodel.
Need help? Find a kitchen pro near you.
- Your kitchen is no longer your own. If you are undergoing a major remodel, you might be without a kitchen for a week or more. Kitchen remodeling contractors try not to upset the flow of your household, but you still have to deal with a kitchen that is out of commission, not to mention the presence of strangers in your house all day.
- There could be budget surprises. When you budget for your kitchen remodel, it’s a good idea to estimate high, so that if you do run a bit over budget, you can cover the extra expense. Plan for the little surprises that might pop up, such as the discovery of rotting wood under those old cabinets or problems with electrical wiring.
- What to do when you can’t cook! While your kitchen is in the hands of the contractors, you need to make alternate arrangements to eat–and that can add up to a big expense. If you can stay with friends or family while the work is being done, great! But you might have to eat out during that time, or plan to plug in a microwave in another part of the house and eat microwaved foods for a few days.
- Should you move out? It might be tempting to take a vacation while the remodel is being done. However, if the contractors need to get in touch with you or consult with you on something, it would help if you were nearby. You might consider staying in a local hotel instead.
The work might seem like a major inconvenience as the kitchen remodeling contractors take over your home for a few days. But in the end, you have a beautiful place to cook and entertain. Stay patient–your dream kitchen is almost ready!
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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Four Important Considerations Before Your Kitchen Remodel Begins
6 Easy Steps to Dry Rot Repair
December 8th, 2009 by admin
Moist wood is the perfect breeding ground for fungi. As the fungi grow deep in the damaged wood, the tiny spores eat away at the wood and create new spores in the process. The result is wood that is cracked, porous, and unstable. This is known as dry rot.
Steps to Dry Rot Repair
If the dry rot is found in a weight-bearing area, the wood should be torn out and completely replaced. However, dry rot repair can be done in place for areas like baseboards, window frames, and trim. Here’s how:
- Eliminate the source of moisture. There’s no point in repairing an area that will be damaged again. Find the source of the moisture and eliminate it before you proceed.
- Dig it out. Remove as much of the dry rot area as you can, and undercut the area so the filler you use will stay in place.
- Prep the surface. Drill shallow holes around the margin of the wood, creating tiny “cups” that will hold liquid. Then fill the holes with a “wood hardener” liquid that protects the surface and gives the filler something to hold onto. You can choose a one-step treatment or an epoxy blend. If you have trouble getting the liquid into the little cups you drilled, use a turkey baster.
- Fill it up. Choose a high-quality wood filler and carefully mold it to the area, pressing it into place. If the dry rot area is large, cut a piece of wood a bit smaller than the area, embed it in the filler, and nail it in. Fill the space around it with putty until the area looks as it did originally. The putty allows the wood to expand and shrink naturally without forming cracks in the repaired area.
- Sand it. After the filler has had time to cure, sand it smooth. Sand the surrounding wood, as well, to create a smooth, elegant line.
- Prime and Paint. Use a high-quality primer and allow it to dry before brushing on the paint. More than one coat might be necessary to make the area look uniform.
When to Call a Professional
If you have a wide area of dry rot or feel uncomfortable with dry rot repair, stay on the safe side and call a contractor to handle the job for you. If the dry rot is in a weight-bearing area of your home, calling a professional will give you the peace of mind of knowing the job is done, and done well.
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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Top 10 Materials for Fencing
December 5th, 2009 by
Good fences make good neighbors. But what makes a good fence? Fencing options range from the traditional stone or wood to the ultra-modern glass or bamboo. Which option is right for your fencing needs?
- Metal. From ornamental wrought iron fences to chain link meant for security, metal fences are everywhere, and in many different forms. Wrought iron is a more expensive option, but it is also one of the strongest fences on the market.
- Wood. Fences made of wood are durable, affordable, and make a lovely natural addition to a landscape. There are numerous varieties of wood to choose from. Tip: treated wood typically lasts longer than untreated boards.
- Stone. Stone fences have an old-world charm. Created with mortar, they can last for decades with very little maintenance. The traditional style without mortar requires more labor. The durability of stone is evident by the ancient fences still standing around the world.
- Vinyl. Vinyl fences make for quick installation and low maintenance. Though vinyl fences can seem quite affordable, keep in mind that you get what you pay for–some of the cheaper vinyl fences can look like flimsy plastic, so it pays to pay a bit more.
- Composite. Fencing that is meant to look like wood but is much more durable? That’s a composite fence. Composite fencing comes in a wide array of colors and is usually very easy to install.
- Bamboo. An environmentally-friendly option, bamboo is a sustainable resource that makes for a very unique look in fencing. An added bonus: bamboo can bend in high winds, which can prevent fence damage.
- Concrete. Available in many different colors and styles, concrete is a great option for areas that are prone to fires or flooding. Concrete fencing is extremely low maintenance.
- Aluminum. Very strong and lightweight, aluminum fencing lends itself to an enormous range of design ideas. The only caveat: scratches can easily turn to rust problems, so the fence must be inspected regularly.
- Glass. Reinforced glass is a modern option that gives landscaping a sleek, fuss-free look. The bonus: glass fences provide unobstructed views.
- Premade Panels. Fencing panels are made in a factory, shipped to your home, and installed by connecting them to fenceposts. No matter what materials make up the fence, installation is usually easy and quick.
A fence isn’t just about function — it’s about form as well. The fence you choose for your home can be seen by everyone who passes by, so make certain it is a reflection of your tastes and style.
About the Author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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Top 10 Materials for Fencing