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Author Archives: Tim Carter

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How To Polish Marble

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

Marble floor polishing can remove small scratches. You can polish the flooring either by dry sanding or wet sanding. Use special silicone-carbide sandpaper in range of grits to slowly work out those imperfections.

Posted in Bathrooms, Ceramic Tile, Flooring, Kitchen, Outdoor, Stone | 15 Comments

Recessed Lighting Problems

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

Have recessed lighting with a mind of its own? Your recessed lights go off and on without the switch being activated? Are you getting ready to add extra insulation in your attic? If so, avoid problems and take a few moments to read this column.

Posted in Kitchen, Lighting | 53 Comments

Clay Soil Water Infiltration Inject Water

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

Foundation drain tile systems are very important. They move water away from the soil around your foundation. Using a T fitting, they can move water to the soil to keep it in equilibrium during a drought.

Posted in Drainage, Outdoor | Leave a comment

Fireplace Design & Dimensions

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

To prevent problems resulting from chimney construction and fireplace design, check out the following resources. Because firebox design is critical to the success of the fireplace, consult the fireplace sizing chart before building.

Posted in Chimneys, Fireplaces, Outdoor, Q & A | 47 Comments

Compact Fill Under Slab

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

Compact Fill Under Slab TIPS Concrete bends and breaks Use self-compacting fill Water helps compact Concrete block ledges on footer CLICK HERE to Get Tim's FREE & FUNNY Newsletter! DEAR TIM: My new home is under construction. I'm in a disagreement with my builder about what's going to happen under my garage slab. Right now […]

Posted in Concrete Installation, Foundation, Lots | 5 Comments

Matching Paint Colors Perfectly

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Tim Carter

Existing paint colors of some years in age can be matched with some good light, soap and water, patience and a matching technique for interior paint colors. Painting with original paint to touch up does not often work.

Posted in Painting - Staining, Remodeling | 3 Comments

Adding a Second Story

Posted on January 31, 2017 by Tim Carter

Add a second story to your home. Room additions can go 'up' instead of out. Homeowners who have added second stories may be of help answering your questions.

Posted in Q & A, Remodeling | 9 Comments

Long Lasting Concrete Patch

Posted on January 30, 2017 by Tim Carter

Long lasting concrete repairs depend on bonding the new patch to the old concrete. Concrete crack repairs depends on the weather. If you have a large concrete driveway repair, you should pin the patch.

Posted in Concrete Defects, Newsletters, Outdoor, Q & A | 20 Comments

Efflorescence on Masonry

Posted on January 30, 2017 by Tim Carter

Efflorescence, those ugly white stains on masonry, brick and stone are the result of water getting in and pulling the water soluble salt out of them. Masonry needs masonry sealers to stop efflorescence. The dirt around your retaining walls needs to be treated as well.

Posted in Audio Articles, Brick, New Construction | 22 Comments

Tar Paper Facts and Tips

Posted on January 30, 2017 by Tim Carter

Tar paper has been time-tested as a weather barrier. Normally used on roofs, tar paper makes a great barrier for the exterior walls of your housing, building or shed. Tar paper keeps the wood beneath it dry.

Posted in New Construction, Roofing, Sheds, Siding, Structural, Vapor Barrier | 20 Comments

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