Ask the Builder
Secondary Navigation
  • About
  • Ask Tim
Main Navigation
  • Videos
  • Tool Reviews
  • Podcast
  • Q & A
  • Shop
  • Tips
  • Before & Afters
  • Checklists
  • Ask Tim

Author Archives: Tim Carter

Post navigation

← Older posts
Newer posts →

Toilet Troubles – Catching The Phantom Flusher

Posted on September 12, 2003 by Tim Carter

Toilet troubles vex, but are usually easy to fix. Toilets may leak, make noise or flush with lost force. You can do simple do it yourself toilet repair.

Posted in Bathrooms, Plumbing Supplies | 3 Comments

Hand Tools / Power Tools

Posted on September 12, 2003 by Tim Carter

Hand tools / power tools on your must have list should be high quality. Tape measure, hammer, level and razor knife are a must. Pliers, wire cutters, screw drivers..read on.

Posted in New Construction, Tools | Leave a comment

Wainscoting – Distinctive Wall Paneling

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

The wainscoting in our dining room is a favorite of my wife. This wall paneling looks so rich on the walls and sets a tone that you can't get any other way. The wood paneling system I chose was so simple to install. The paneling layout was done by the factory and required a minimum of effort to get it from the boxes onto the walls.

Posted in Interior Walls, New Construction, Trim Lumber | Leave a comment

Avoiding Liens

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Avoiding liens while building a new home starts by paying attention to detail during the bid process. Setting up checks and balances is in order and receipt of an affidavit before writing a check is essential.

Posted in New Construction | Leave a comment

Condensation – Sources and Solutions

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Condensation can create mildew and rot. Determine where it is coming from. Vent free fireplaces or crawl spaces may be adding water vapor.

Posted in Condensation, New Construction | 1 Comment

Window Cleaning

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Window cleaning can be done with a sponge, soap and water. Squeegees remove the soapy mess so your windows shine. Windows can be crystal clear with minimal effort and the right window cleaning tools.

Posted in New Construction, Windows | 2 Comments

Home Wiring for the Future

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Home wiring for the future can prepare a house for electronic technology. From one central distribution panel, the electrical wiring should include a UTP CAT 5 cable and RG-6 coaxial cable to each room. This hard wiring is more secure than wireless.

Posted in Electrical, New Construction | 3 Comments

Plywood and OSB

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Plywood and oriented strand board (OSB) are similar, yet different. They are made similarly yet react differently when they get wet. OSB may be less expensive, but if cuts are made to the surface, it loses its waterproof quality.

Posted in Engineered Wood, New Construction | 2 Comments

Custom Woodwork – Easy to Find!

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

Custom millwork is often not that expensive. Custom woodwork price drops dramatically as you have more made. Order 100 more linear feet than your woodworking project needs...just in case of mistakes.

Posted in New Construction, Trim Lumber | Leave a comment

Do It Yourself – Sweat Equity

Posted on August 28, 2003 by Tim Carter

If you can do it yourself -- add sweat equity to some of the projects in your new home, you can save money. Do it yourself projects while building a house require serious commitment, however, and the trick is to find a builder who will be your partner in the process.

Posted in New Construction | Leave a comment

Post navigation

← Older posts
Newer posts →
SEARCH ASK THE BUILDER / 
WELCOME TO ASK THE BUILDER / 
SPONSORS / 
Roofing Ripoff Expose' Book
  • ebooks
  • Checklists
  • shop
  • Ask Tim

©1993-2026 tim carter

Expert Advice For Your Home

Subscribe to the FREE Ask the Builder newsletter to receive professional advice for your home. Complete the form below and each week you'll get:

  • DIY Tips
  • Tool Reviews
  • Project Guides
  • Product Discounts, Giveaways & more.

Unsubscribe at any time. We respect your email privacy.

The owner of this website has made a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, please report any problems that you encounter using the contact form on this website. This site uses the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility.