Here are some of my videos on cutting Crown Molding. These videos cover the basics to help you with your crown molding project. If you need additional instructions, check out the link below to my Crown Molding eBook.
The first video demonstrates a few easy tips to make perfect cuts on crown molding, especially in the corners of a room.
If you REALLY want to discover how to install Crown Molding, you need my Crown Molding eBook or Installing Crown Molding DVD..
DEAR TIM: I have a casement window in my home that has a mind of its own. In fact, now that I think of it, several of my casement windows have some issues. Some are tough to open and close, while others glide easily. Is there a problem with the casement window hardware? Should I be maintaining it in some way? Is there a way for me to repair this myself or do I need new casement replacement window or two? What else should I know about these windows? Bethany H., Charleston, IL
DEAR BETHANY: Casement windows, I sometimes feel, are in my DNA. The house I grew up in had these crank-out windows in each room. They were steel casement windows that were very common in homes built just before and after World War II. I have memories of washing these windows, replacing the putty and watching my mother install this string caulk each fall to stop the drafts as the windows had absolutely no weatherstripping.
This casement window operates just like a standard door. It pivots on hinges that are on one of the vertical jambs. PHOTO CREDIT: Tim Carter
The current home I live in has a mix of Anderson casement windows and double-hung windows. I happen to love the casement windows for a number of reasons. First, when you open them, you get the maximum amount of ventilation as the entire surface area of the window is open to the outdoors. With a double-hung window, you only get a maximum of about 50 percent of the surface area open as one sash overlaps the other.
I also prefer the ease of cleaning with many modern casement windows. The windows in my childhood home did not allow you access to the outside of the glass when they were open. However, many modern casement windows are hinged in such a way that when fully open, you can reach the outside of the glass through a gap between the window frame and the sash.
I had the same issue you have with two of my windows. I found it very hard to turn the casement window crank on two of my very large windows in my family room. I traced the issue in one of the windows to some debris that got jammed into the lever that drives the window out. The second problem was a loose piece of hardware where the lever attached to the window sash.
It’s pretty important to keep all of the hardware on your windows lubricated. As the windows get larger, some of mine are nearly 2-feet wide and 5-feet tall, they get very heavy. Most of this weight is concentrated on the lower hinge, and it better be well greased and balanced for the window to open and close with ease.
You can maintain and lubricate the windows yourself. It’s not hard at all. The first thing to do is a thorough inspection of the window, the casement window crank and all casement window parts that you can see. You may even be able to remove a housing from on top of the crank to gain access to gears and parts that are attached to the crank.
Make sure there is no debris in these parts, and that they are in good shape. Remove any rust if it exists. Use a medium-weight oil or one recommended by the window manufacturer if that company is still in business. You don’t need much lubrication, and make sure you coat all the moving parts. Operate the window several times as you do this to see if the performance improves.
If you determine that repairs can’t be successfully made by you or a pro, you may have to obtain casement window prices to see how expensive it will be to replace your windows. I can already tell you that the price will take your breath away. High-quality windows are expensive, but well worth it if you plan to live in the house for a long time. Windows and doors are often the weakest link in the energy-efficiency chain in your home. You want great windows that will not leak lots of energy.
If you prefer little future maintenance, look at vinyl casement windows. Try to find ones that come with the AAMA (www.aamanet.org) certification label as well as the one from the NFRC (www.nfrc.org). These two independent organizations certify the construction and energy aspects of windows and doors.
I also urge you to ensure your new windows are installed correctly. If they are installed in a bind or improperly, they may not operate smoothly nor will they seal properly against the weatherstripping. Take the time to get familiar with the written instructions that come with the window and be sure they are installed that way.
Column 807
DEAR TIM: Can you help me sort out things as I try to make up my mind about bathtubs? My bathtub is a mess, and a friend told me to consider bathtub refinishing. I went online and discovered that bathtub reglazing might not be the wisest thing for me. I’ve always wanted a clawfoot bathtub, but maybe it’s not too practical. To further complicate things, there is a possibility that my mother may come to live with me. Perhaps I should be looking at walk-in bathtubs. It’s so tough making a decision. I’m floundering. Nancy W., Memphis, TN
DEAR NANCY: You have the home-improvement disease paralysis by analysis. It’s very common, and many of my clients contracted it. In fact, the fear of the disease stops many from even starting a project because they are overwhelmed with making hundreds of decisions about every item that might be used in the new house or the remodeling job.
This bathtub is extra deep and a good place to soak your weary bones. Photo by: Tim Carter
I would suggest that you first stop and think about what the real prospects are that your mother will come to stay with you. That, in my opinion, is the primary variable in this discussion about bathtubs and showers. Even if you plan this remodel job around her, I feel you may have all sorts of options and will be able to a get a tub that provides lots of bathtub safety as well as good looks.
My own mother used walk-in bathtubs later in life. She loved all of them. I had this fear that they would never seal correctly and leak. That never happened, so I’m a believer in these wonderful tubs that allow people to walk in, close the swinging door, sit down and enjoy a soothing tub bath.
Don’t overlook another option you have. You can get bathtub liners that fit over your existing tub. Most of these are acrylic bathtubs that fit inside your existing tub. Frequently you get the entire system which includes new sidewalls made from the same material. Understand that the inner dimensions of the tub will get slightly smaller as the bathtub liner needs to nest inside your existing tub. This solution offers minimal mess as there is no or minimal demolition.
I can understand your hesitation about bathtub resurfacing. Some companies mislead, in my opinion, when they call it reglazing. A true glaze is a clear ceramic coating that’s fired onto the tub at high temperature. The glaze becomes a thin layer of glass. The bathtub reglazing that I’ve seen advertised is really just high-performance bathtub paint. It’s not as hard or durable as the original glaze from the factory. You may also have peeling issues down the road. Do extensive online research before choosing this path.
If you decide that your mother may not be coming, then you have all sorts of options. Think about a major remodeling that might allow you to use one of the elegant corner bathtubs. They sure can make a bathroom interesting. I recently took an existing platform tub and made it into a corner bathtub that has a granite shelf surrounding it. A creative designer or remodeling contractor can help you with ideas like this.
Be sure to give cast-iron bathtubs a serious look. I have two of these in my existing home, and plan to put them in a new home I’m building. I love the feel of cast iron and when you insulate around them, hot water will stay hot in the tub for a very long time. I always pack fiberglass batts around the tub after it’s installed. My past customers thanked me for doing this easy task that only took about five minutes often using scrap insulation that otherwise might have been discarded.
Be sure to look at tubs that are not standard sized. You can get tubs that are slightly wider than normal, deeper than normal and longer than those you might have grown up in. To see these, you may have to visit a plumbing showroom at a business that just sells plumbing supplies. You’ll never see all the options at a home center. I know of a plumbing dealer that has about 20 tubs on the showroom floor, all of which you can climb into to test drive. I suggest leaving your clothes on though as there are no shades on the plate-glass windows!
Be sure to install a new bathtub faucet and a complete drain system if you tear out the old tub. These extra items are well worth the cost, as you don’t want to hassle with this bathroom fixture once this job is over. Now is the time to make this part of your home maintenance free for many years.
Take the time to read the written installation instructions once you’ve made your decision about what tub you’ll use. I urge you to do this because it will allow you to do a great interview of the contractor you’ll use. Ask questions about the installation process making sure the contractor knows exactly how the tub should be supported and any special installation steps that must be taken to ensure the warranty is valid.
Column 806
Home for Thanksgiving
Frog Tape
Foam Insulation
Ceramic Tile Saw
Basement Waterproofing eBook
Latest Columns and Videos
The Fire Pit
If you have a question for me, don't hit the Reply button just yet. Go immediately to my web site and type in the keywords about your problem into my Search engine. The search box is at the top of every page of my web site. You could have your answer in seconds if you do this! Please pay attention to all links you see at my web site. The exact products and services you often need are right in front of you, and you might be ignoring them.
I'm back in Cincinnati for Thanksgiving with Kathy and the family. It will be my last Thanksgiving in Cincinnati, as next year everyone will be in New Hampshire. What's more, this week I'll also put the For Sale sign up in the front yard of the house here. Wait till you see how I'm selling the house. I'll share the website for that next issue. In fact, you may be able to help me. I'm looking to connect with the Transfer Department at either Procter and Gamble or the Kroger company. I know that each company has a division where they assist employees transferring from city to city. Do you have connections there at either of these two companies? Both are headquartered here in Cincinnati, and my house in Amberley Village is a perfect candidate for someone being transferred here for a work stint. My place is literally just minutes from downtown. Could you please email me if you have a contact?
I finally got to see the house here with the roof complete. WOW!!! The GAF Slateline shingles really helped the appearance of the house. From the street, there's a good chance you'll feel my authentic Queen Anne Victorian home has a real slate roof. I'll have a sweet photo for you to compare it against a video I shot back at the beginning of the summer. The video shows the old brown 3-tab shingles. If you're thinking of a new roof, and your home might look better if it had slate, then consider these great asphalt shingles. When you see the photo next issue, I think you'll agree the roof is a show stopper.
One of the problems with moving, and if you've moved you know what I'm talking about, is the issue of parcels coming to the old address. I'm on the press lists of any number of Public Relations firms, and some still send things to my Cincinnati address. Two weeks ago I received an email from a PR person about how I liked the sample of a painting tape called Frog Tape. I replied, "What sample?" Turns out it was sent here to my house in Cincinnati. I saw the box on Friday night when I dragged myself through the door after a grueling 15-hour drive, three hours of it through heavy rain in NH and the Mass Turnpike. Oh, did I say it's my desire NEVER to pay a toll on the Mass Turnpike again?
I opened the Frog Tape sample box and there inside is a roll of this tape, a small bottle of water, a plastic cup and a small bag of white powder. Hmmmmmm???? Reading the note on the white powder the instructions say to pour it in the plastic cup and fill the cup with water. WOW!! The water in the cup INSTANTLY transformed to a gelatin. I mean instantly.
This powder is on the edges of the tape. You use the tape when you want to paint two colors on a surface and you don't want that horrible pesky bleed under that happens with many of the other masking tapes. The powder on the tape instantly reacts with the water in the paint creating a barrier. When you pull off the tape a few hours later, you have a crisp line with no ragged paint edges. Pretty clever invention. This is just one example you can give to your kids if they ever ask what a chemist does for a living.
Chris Johnson wrote to me asking:
"I am getting ready to build a new home and spoke with a foam insulation installer. He said he could spray the underside of the roof in the attic and side boards to R40, and I would have an unvented attic. Honestly I was shocked saying I thought attic ventilation was critical due to cooling and moisture control. He said the insulation location will prevent any condensation, and the attic will be a conditioned space, especially good for any HVAC ducts in the attic. Any thoughts on this?"
Chris, I'm faced with the same dilemma in the new home I'll be building in New Hampshire. I'm absolutely going to use foam insulation in the new house and am researching this exact topic right now. I don't have the exact answer for you at this time, but here are some of the things I'm thinking about and the questions I'll be asking the foam insulation manufacturers. Understand that I'm VERY concerned as there are references in the residential trade literature about rot issues with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) used in cathedral roof designs. A SIP is just like an Oreo cookie - a thick piece of foam sandwiched in between two pieces of oriented strand board (OSB). Some past stories I've read talk about water vapor from the house traveling up to the attic, and eventually condensed on the cold side of the foam. This liquid water then rotted out the OSB just under the shingles.
With this in mind, think about the following:
This technology is not new by any means. Foam has been used as a commercial insulation for years. But I'm always skeptical of experiments where commercial products enter into the residential marketplace. A great example is EIFS. Read this past column of mine about the EIFS nightmare written written in 1996 that's still valid today!
Go slow and do tons of research.
The New Year is just around the corner. I can't wait! I have a monster To-Do list of projects, and perhaps you do too. If you're planning a ceramic-tile job, you very likely will need a wet saw to make difficult cuts. My friends at ConstructionComplete.com have a great ceramic-tile saw on sale, and it's not too late to put it on your Christmas list. This saw will make a 14-inch long rip cut with one continuous motion. It will make a continuous diagonal cut through a 10-inch by 10-inch tile. You even get a diamond wet-saw blade, the pan, etc. You can set it up on saw horses, but I'd recommend getting the stand to make the saw more stable and to save your back. You'll not believe the price for this tool when you see it. I doubt you'll find a better deal for this useful tool anywhere. I use my diamond wet saw on just about every tile job I do. Ask Santa for one now! If you don't believe in Santa, then break out your credit card and order one before the price goes up.
I've been putting this project off for years, but now I'm just about finished with it. It's my intention to produce possibly one of the best books that tells the truth about basement waterproofing. I plan to discuss what your options are, what works and what might not, and talk about a little-used secret weapon to stop basement water leaks forever. Did you know my college degree is in Geology, and I was fascinated with the topic of hydrogeology - the study of ground water? That gives me a distinct advantage when it comes to understanding the dynamics of basement and crawlspace water leaks.
But I need your help. If you could wave a magic wand and POOF!, there in your hands was the best book about basement waterproofing, what would it contain? What do you REALLY want to know about basement waterproofing? Are you confused about sump pumps? Do you wonder about the different systems? Do you want a must-have checklist to help you select a pro to solve you water problem? Make a list of questions, all of them, and send them to me using a special page at my website.
No question is silly. Tell me exactly what you want to know.
If you help me, you'll get one of two things:
You must go here and fill out this simple form so I can get in touch with you once I've completed the eBook.
It's that time of year to warm yourself by the fire. Do you have all the Fireplace Accessories you need?
Tub faucets can be frustrating to select. Think about what you need before you pull out your credit card.
Are you going to Grout a Tile Floor soon? This is part one of a series of videos showing you grouting tile!
Last week the headline to this newsletter, as well as the Fire Pit article, possibly put your head on a swivel. I received so many positive remarks (hundreds and hundreds), perhaps one from you, that it changed the course of what I'm doing. Add to that some input from some very dear friends of mine, and I've now decided that the Fire Pit deserves it's own special place where it can flourish outside the shadow of this home-improvement newsletter. I wish to thank you from deep within my heart for the kind words you sent me last week. It was impossible to respond to each email, there were just too many.
For the record, last issue's approval rating - based on your response and those from other subscribers email responses - was over 73 percent. What touched me the most and prompted me to make the change that I did, were the emails that said I actually made a difference. That's what the Fire Pit is all about - getting you to think about what's happening, and then nudging you into action.
From now on, if you want to read what I have to say about our great nation, where I feel it's headed, and who's got some explaining to do, you *must* subscribe to a second newsletter that's solely the Fire Pit. It's easy to do, and I encourage you to do it. Look just to the right of the roaring fire for the sign up form. I thank you in advance for doing this.
What I will continue to do in this section of the AsktheBuilder.com newsletter is give you a brief summary of what's happening over at the Fire Pit and provide you with a handy link to where you can sign up for that newsletter.
I'm proud to announce: http://www.TimCartersFirePit.
A special thanks to Brent Walter for taking the stunning photo you'll see. Those embers are real, not photoshopped. Nothing like a slower shutter speed. Brent also created the website within a matter of days, and my assistant Roger transferred all past Fire Pit articles into this website. From the spark of the idea until the website was glowing took just 48 hours. Great job fellows!
If you have your own website, or are affiliated with a group that has a political website, I'd sure appreciate a link from your site to my fledgling Fire Pit website.
AsktheBuilder.com
DEAR TIM: I need to build some custom stairs outdoors. I was thinking of using stone, but am open to other ideas. I was thinking of possibly using custom iron stairs, but I don’t know how to weld or fabricate them. As you can tell, I’m all over the map with respect to what I want. Can you give me a few suggestions about what it takes to build a custom staircase? What are the things I need to pay attention to and what should I avoid at all costs? Laura S. Locust Valley, NY
DEAR LAURA: Oh, I can sure relate to your confusion and befuddlement. There are so many materials that you can use to build outdoor stairs it can create quite a conundrum when it comes time to making a final decision.
I clearly remember the first set of custom stairs I built. It was at our second home, and I was still a grasshopper at the ripe age of 25. I happened to use paving brick as the material and each custom stair that led from the upper sidewalk to the lower patio was a different width side to side. The design was compliments of my wife Kathy who wanted to create custom spiral stairs, even though there were only four of them that curved to connect the two levels.
These custom stairs are made from individual pieces of granite. You can make stairs out of many materials. PHOTO CREDIT: Tim Carter
To help you decide what material will best work for you, I suggest to think down the road. How much maintenance do you want to do? If you choose wood or metal, you’ll have to take care of them over time. Granted, you can select a metal that doesn’t corrode or a special steel that develops a patina of rust, but these are probably way beyond your budget.
Natural stone, brick and even concrete are materials that should not require any maintenance in your lifetime other than a periodic cleaning to remove dirt, algae and possibly moss that can make the stair treads slippery and dangerous.
I’ve built outdoor stairs from many materials including brick, fieldstone, flagstone, wood and metal. I’m partial to any natural stone and brick as they seem to blend better with plants, bushes and trees. What’s more, they’re nearly maintenance free. I love the fact that I just have to clean them periodically, and not paint, stain or otherwise labor over them.
I can tell you that you only want to build the stairs once. This means you have to plan carefully making sure that your stairs connect seamlessly between the different levels in your yard. The mission-critical element is to ensure the stairs meet all local building codes with respect to the sizes of the treads and the risers. People trip and fall on steps everyday. Don’t underestimate the importance of making sure the stairs are code compliant. Contact your local building department for a copy of section of the building code that deals with stairs. You may be able to get this online for no cost if you hunt for it.
The code changes every few years, but I’ve discovered that the most comfortable combination of rise and run happens to be a rise of 7.5 inches and a run of 10 inches. This simply means that each tread on the stairs is 10-inches deep and the vertical distance between the top surface of each tread and the landing above or below is 7.5 inches.
If you decide to use thinner natural stone or brick, you usually apply these on top of a poured-concrete base. This means the concrete must be poured to mimic the finished profile of the stairs, but be sunk into the ground the thickness of the stone or brick covering plus the thickness of the mortar you will use to bond the stone or brick to the concrete. Be sure the concrete has a rough texture and you place reinforcing steel in the concrete so it doesn’t break apart over time.
If you decide to use solid slabs of natural stone, you just need to make sure they are the correct size so that when stacked one on top of another they create a rise and run that’s satisfies the building code. You’ll need lots of help with these as each piece of stone will weigh hundreds of pounds.
Avoid shortcuts in the planning process. Take your time and draw up what you plan to do. I urge you to do the math in your yard to make sure the stairs are going to work and that all the dimensions are correct.
Be sure that the treads of the stairs tilt downwards slightly so they drain water. This is very important if you live in a cold climate where a puddle might transform into a sheet of ice.
Any fill material placed behind the stairs should be gravel or a gravel-sand mix that drains well. Soil that holds water can be problematic in cold climates where frost heave can push large blocks of stone sideways.
Column 805
Self-Healing Concrete
Great Winter Work Gloves
Job Burn Out
Ceramic Tile Adhesive
For-Fun Videos
If you have a question for me, don't hit the Reply button just yet. Go immediately to my web site and type in the keywords about your problem into my Search engine. The search box is at the top of every page of my web site. You could have your answer in seconds if you do this! Please pay attention to all links you see at my web site. The exact products and services you often need are right in front of you, and you might be ignoring them.
I read a fascinating article in the November 2, 2009 issue of Forbes magazine.
It talked about a revolutionary concrete that's being tested now that can heal cracks in it. Concrete has always suffered from cracks caused by many reasons. I've got many articles in my Concrete category that speak to this.
Years ago, I discussed old traditional lime mortar that also has the self-healing quality. If you have a home with old brick, or are building a new home with brick or block, you should absolutely read my column and use a mortar that has a very high lime content. You can actually add your own lime to the regular mortar that comes in a bag.
The Forbes article described what happens in this concrete and it's strikingly similar to the chemical reaction that happens with mortars that are rich with hydrated-lime. The bottom line is that in our lifetime you might be able to buy this new concrete. When it is available at the residential level, I hope to be one of the first to report about it.
When I was working out in the field for all those years banging nails, even the wrong ones on my fingertips, I would work outdoors all day in cold weather. Many a day it was below 20 F. I can tell you that it's very important to keep your hands and feet warm. Your body uses them as temperature sensors as they are the farthest things from the core of your body. When your fingers and toes get cold, they send a subliminal message to your brain that you better get warm. If you ignore this signal, you really start to concentrate on how cold your hands and feet are.
Eliminate this problem when working outdoors with some smart-looking gloves I just tested made by Mechanix. The first pair I tested has a fleece outer covering that really keeps my hands toasty as I walk 3.5 miles each day.
If the weather calls for rain, I intend to use their newest glove, Winter Armor. It's so new, it doesn't even show up on their website. Both of these gloves will come in handy when I'm using my snowblower this winter and doing other chores outdoors on those frosty mornings. You should take a look at these gloves. I believe you'll be impressed.
Have you thought about building your own website, but have no clue how to navigate the minefield? My good friend Jodie Gastel has written a great step-by-step coaching guide that will show you what you need to know to get online. Jodie used to belong to a mastermind group that I still participate in. We stay in touch as Jodie still loves the Internet, and most of all loves to share what she's discovered on her journey.
I love the graphics in the instant download ebook. Jodie takes you through the process of purchasing a domain name, registering it, and making it work. Then it's off to create the actual website. I worked a deal with Jodie to even make this possible. She really didn't want to offer it up as it was an exclusive manual for her own students. But I knew I didn't have the time to write a similar in-depth guide, so I begged her to make it available to you.
You must act now or the offer will disappear in SEVEN DAYS. Jodie does pay me a commission on each sale, but I'm proud to exclaim that as I feel the book is worth every penny. See for yourself. Just like with my products it comes with a full money-back pledge. You just have to ask Jodie for the refund within 30 days. That's totally fair. Wait until you see all the special FREE things you get when you order the instant download eBook. Wow! I have to tell Jodie she's crazy to have given all that away. I think you'll agree.
Make sure you tell her that when you have her on the phone during your one-hour free coaching consultation! Yes, you get to talk to Jodie in case you have questions. Can you believe that? When's the last time you could call a book author, much less talk to them for an hour!
If you've ever installed ceramic wall tile, you know that troweling on the organic mastic or the cement-based thinset can be messy. Grace products just sent me a roll of Bondera. It's a peel-and-stick membrane. Imagine a giant roll of thick double-sided adhesive tape and that's what you get. It claims that you have less mess and that you can instantly grout the tile once you have it in place. I don't dispute those claims. The label says it only works with tiles up to 6x6 in size.
That's where I have a possible issue with this material. The reason they say not to go larger than 6x6 is because the Bondera conforms to the surface it's being applied to. If there are humps or low spots, the Bondera follows that profile. Tile is rigid, so it rocks back and forth on bumps, and voids exist where a tile passes over a low spot. When you use traditional organic mastic or thinset, you can get good adhesion with the tile as you press the tile to the wall. The pressure squeezes out extra mastic or thinset to make the bond. That can't happen with Bondera as the membrane stays the same thickness as you press the tile.
My advice is to make sure the wall surface you are tiling is in the same plane if you decide to use this product. Be sure it's squeaky clean as well. Always follow the directions on the box label.
While I was out West two weeks ago, I was staying with a friend, Russ, who lives at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The massive Station Fire this past summer scorched the hillsides just miles from his home. He drove me right to the edge of the fire damage in a suburb next to his on a day where fierce winds were blowing the ash into the air. I taped a news parody video in La Canada Flintridge where the highway department was bracing for the mudslides that were guaranteed to happen. Watch this video and pay attention at the end where my buddy Russ made me lose my composure as he was laughing at my one statement about Mother Nature.
Several days ago, this local news video was shot at the exact same location I was standing when I taped mine:
Looks like I was right Russ. The barriers were a vain attempt. :->>>>> So there.
AsktheBuilder.com
Western Trip
Veterans Day
CFL Update
Tool News
Help the Next Owner
Knick Knack Gift Idea
Unbelievable Stain Solver Story
Latest Columns and Videos
If you have a question for me, don't hit the Reply button just yet. Go immediately my web site and type in the keywords about your problem into my Search engine. The search box is at the top of every page of my web site. You could have your answer in seconds if you do this! Please pay attention to all links you see at my web site. The exact products and services you often need are right in front of you, and you might be ignoring them.
I started this newsletter last week while on the last leg of my three weeks of travel. My intention was to send it last week before I became engrossed in the secret Internet entrepreneur conference in San Francisco. That conference was the primary reason I headed West from New Hampshire. You know what they say about the best-laid plans.
My trip covered three states - New Mexico, Arizona and California. I was able to visit some dear friends, my cousin and hang out with many of my peers for nearly two weeks. One of the highlights was being on the sound stage of the taping of an upcoming scene in a major TV show that's on right now. I'm not allowed to share anything about it, but suffice it to say that it was quite an adventure to see how a major drama episode is shot. I was on a reality TV show, The Mansion, about five years ago. That was an eye-opening experience, but two weeks ago being on a real sound stage was much cooler.
I also got to finally drive up the California coast between LA and San Francisco. The weather was clear as a bell and the scenery was stunning. If you're a Twitter follower of mine, you got to see all the photos I took as I was on my journey. This is just one of the many benefits of using Twitter. Once again, I urge you to follow me on Twitter if you want to get a peek of what tips I'm sharing each day and where I might be. For example, while in town today I saw this enormous boat that's a modern copy of the classic wood boats used up here in the Northeast. I uploaded a photo of the beast to share.
When I got back home early Monday (1:10 a.m.), there was a mountain of boxes containing tools an products to test. The next few newsletters will be filled to the brim with reviews. Some of them look amazing.
If you're a veteran who has sacrificed to serve our great nation, my family and I are forever grateful and applaud you on this day set aside to honor you. Based on the thousands of emails I've received over the past six months supporting The Fire Pit, I can tell you that there are many who want to thank you, but don't have an easy way to do it. You are responsible for the ongoing delivery of this newsletter and all the other freedoms I and all other Americans enjoy - and sadly - sometimes take for granted. If you're related to a veteran and can pass on my appreciation, please do so. I'll be indebted to you.
Two issues ago, I talked about compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs. You may have been one who flooded me with helpful emails. It appears I'm not the only one who's suffering from early CFL burnout. The common message was that burnouts are happening from overheating, typically from bulbs placed upside down in recessed light fixtures.
My advice is to carefully read the label of any fixture you buy to see how it's to be installed. Furthermore, you may have been a subscriber who determined that the bulbs last longest when they're not turned on and off frequently. It's best to leave them on. However, that sort of defeats the cost-savings aspect of the bulb. Leaving the bulb on when you're not in a room wastes electricity.
David, a subscriber in Florida, brought to my attention a news story where Stanley Tools just announced that they are merging with Black and Decker. This is the fourth time the companies have tried to do this. Looks like it was successful. What will this mean to you and I? It's too early to tell, but I'm hoping that we'll see a continued distinction in quality between the brands - should they decide to keep them separate.
I've been very happy over the years with Stanley Tools, while the Black and Decker tools have been a letdown. I understand this clearly as certain companies cater to different buyers. The worse thing, in my opinion, is for the Stanley brand and tradition of quality be diluted by Black and Decker.
CLICK HERE to read a follow-up story in my January 13, 2010 Newsletter.
If you're building a new home or doing any type of remodeling project, you can really do the next homeowner an enormous favor. Ceramic tile, plumbing fixtures, laminate flooring, etc. tend to come in boxes that are clearly labeled as to the manufacturer, the product name, style, etc. If you could take a razor knife and cut out that part of the box that shows all the product info and take a Sharpie marker making a note what room of the house it was used in, that would save tons of time for the next owner. These pieces of cardboard can be placed together near the electric panel or some other location where they'll not be thrown out. I could have used the box that the ceramic tile came in for the basement rooms her in my NH home. Luckily I stumbled across the exact tile I needed to match.
Each week I'm contacted by public relations folks who inform me of new products. I tested one that might be of interest to you if you like unique decorative items in your home. You can have a favorite photo of a scene or people and have it transformed into a three-dimensional image that's backlit. I believe my Aunt Margaret had decorations like this at her home if my memory serves me right. Aunt Margaret was one of my favorite aunts. Anyway, if you're looking for a Christmas gift idea that is out of the ordinary, this may be for you. You need to react quickly as there is some lead time to get the product made.
If you're a new subscriber, my guess is you don't know about Stain Solver. It's a fabric and color-safe oxygen bleach that cleans just about anything that's water washable. I've been manufacturing it and selling it now for about 13 years.
Two months ago, a woman, Susan, purchased some from me. She used it to clean her bathroom floor tile grout and told me on the phone, "Tim, it was amazing how clean the grout is. It looks like new. I'm totally satisfied!"
But understand that wasn't the real reason she called. She called because she was upset that the product worked too well. How's that possible you ask?
It turns out Susan decided to try it on her wood deck. She was sloshing it around and got some in her shoes causing her socks to get saturated with the solution. Sue had to walk inside for something, so she took off her shoes and walked across her tiled kitchen floor. The wet footprints could be seen the next day, so she called me frantically exclaiming that my product ruined her tile floor.
I knew immediately what had happened. My Stain Solver stripped off layers of cleaners or wax that she or some other homeowner had applied to the tile. Unfortunately, Susan or the previous homeowner sealed in dirt and grime.
But Susan *thought* the tile was clean and that my Stain Solver ruined the tile glaze. It took about five phone calls, but I proved to her that my product simply made the tile look like the day it came out of the box. Not only was Susan embarrassed, but so was her sister. She got sucked into the fray as well. Her sister emailed me photos of the footprints in the tile. She accused me of saying her sister was a slob. You can't win for trying! I never said Susan was a sluggard. I told Sue's sister that the floor had layers of trapped dirt that were sealed in by those store-bought cleaners that claim to clean your floors and make them shine. Yeah, right.....
Anyway, Susan is now a believer as she went back and soaked the kitchen floor removing all those layers of squirt cleaners that can trap in dirt. Maybe you have the same problem. Stain Solver can make your tile and the grout can look like new.
Right now I'm offering Free Shipping on all sizes of Stain Solver. You might want to take advantage of this great offer, as shipping prices can be very high because of insane diesel fuel costs. I'd love to see your Before and After photos!
Don't be fooled by the name on the label of Solid Stain. Read about my experience with this paint product.
Soapstone Countertops require a very special owner. Are you one?
Laying Tile is not that hard, especially extending an existing floor.
Mixing Grout for floor tile is not hard, but you can make a mission-critical mistake.
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I do product reviews frequently. Please read my Disclosure Policy to understand the relationship between me and the companies that make the products or offer the services I review.
If you have a question for me, don't hit the Reply button just yet. Go immediately to my web site and type in the keywords about your problem into my Search engine. The search box is at the top of every page of my web site. You could have your answer in seconds if you do this! Please pay attention to all links you see at my web site. The exact products and services you often need are right in front of you, and you might be ignoring them. This is going to be a very short newsletter. Well, maybe not too short. I'm halfway into a three-week trip that's a combination of business and pleasure. If you've been a subscriber for the past six months, then you're probably aware that I worked my butt off this summer back in Cincinnati. Kathy and I got a short break visiting some dear friends in Michigan, but I needed another breather after crossing the finish line of all the projects I completed at our Cincinnati home that will soon be on the market.
I'm on the West Coast now in LA, but will be driving up the coast along Highway 1 beginning on Halloween. Russ, Steve and I will be headed to a conference with some of my good friends. It's a secret group of entrepreneurs I belong to.
Anyway, I've never done that awesome drive up the coast with the vistas of the Pacific Ocean. However, yesterday I got my first taste of what it's like to be right next to and above the majestic Pacific Ocean. I was invited to the condo of a great man that an hour before kicked my butt in golf.
Kathy, my wife, made it very clear to me on the phone after I was licking my wounds that I was to tell you about this golf game. Dick is 87 years old, had taken a serious fall in the past two weeks hurting his shoulder and still proceeded to trounce me and my buddy Steve. Oh well, I just have to keep practicing. While I practice golf, how about you watch the video I shot at Dick's condo looking out over the ocean?
Each week at the top of the newsletter is a suggestion for you to follow me on Twitter. About a month ago a new feature was enabled on my iPhone that allows me to immediately send out a photo and a message pertaining to that photo. Twitter only allows you to send out messages that are 140 characters, with spaces counting as characters. You can't say much in that amount of room, but you know the old saying: A picture is worth a thousand words. I urge you to open a free Twitter account and start to Follow me. It takes just minutes to do. I'll be sending you some great photos of problems I see each day and what I suggest to avoid them or repair them! Here's an example of a Twitter posting. Be sure to click that odd-looking URL in the post so you can see the photo I shot.
http://go.askthebuilder.com/
I'm staying at a friend's house in Montrose, CA, a very nice community tucked up against the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains. This house was built nearly 100 years ago and is steeped in great workmanship. I'll be taping some videos here today, but wanted to tell you about one that I think you'll love. The room I'm staying in is a private suite above a three-seasons room. Actually out here it's a four-seasons room as the weather is so mild in the winter. I've renamed the room to Tim's Lair.
This suite has an amazing vaulted ceiling and a micro bathroom that works. If I gave you the dimensions of the room, you'll not believe the fixtures could fit in the space, but they do. Yes, the code officials would be most unhappy, but so it goes. I'm able to share this with you just in case you're planning a bathroom remodel and need some space-saving ideas. Watch for that video in the next newsletter.
That's it for today. I'll be on the road for another 10 days or so, which means the newsletter next week will be a little light.
Till then, Do Things Right, not Over!
Tim
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Hi, I'm Tim Carter. Replacement windows are expensive. You want to get the best ones installed by real professionals.
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Tim Carter
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