How to Hang Curtain Tracks on a Concrete Ceiling Safely?
I'm about to move into a condo that we just bought, and I need some advice on installing curtain tracks into the concrete ceiling. The bylaws restrict how…
installation tips
Looking for a Smoke Detector with 3.5 Inch Mounting Holes
Hi everyone! I need some help finding a smoke detector that has mounting holes exactly 3.5 inches apart. My ceiling has holes sized that way, and I'm struggling…
What's Going Wrong with My Cabinet Hinge Installation?
I've been having constant trouble with my cabinet hinges. They keep falling off the frame every few months, and I've tried a bunch of solutions to strengthen the…
How Should I Properly Install Kraft Paper Insulation?
I'm trying to install R-11 Kraft paper insulation that's been around for about 30 years, and I've heard that lapping the Kraft paper facing is the right method.…
Can I Hang a Sliding Door Directly on Drywall?
I'm planning to install a 48x84 sliding door for my laundry closet, and I'm curious if I can attach its rail directly to the drywall. The holes in…
Can I Install a Mortise Lock on Hollow Interior Doors?
I'm looking to install a mortise lock, similar to this one I've linked, but I prefer to use hollow interior doors instead of solid wood, as they tend…
Is My Window A/C a Security Risk for Break-Ins?
I'm considering installing a window air conditioner in my living room, but I'm worried about security. It seems like a thief could easily push the unit in and…
How to Install 2x4 Shelves on Uneven Walls?
I'm trying to put up some 2x4 shelves in my garage, but I've run into a problem with my uneven walls. The 2x4 is mostly straight, but there's…
What's the Difference Between Panasonic WhisperGreen Select 30/110 and 50/80/110 Ventilation Fans?
Hi folks! I'm in the process of installing new bathroom exhaust fans and I've narrowed it down to the Panasonic models. I found two options: one with 2…
Can I Use Toggle Bolts for My OTR Microwave If There Are No Studs?
I'm trying to install an over-the-range (OTR) microwave, but I'm running into an issue. I have a rear wall vent with ductwork that runs down and out, and…
Should I Install Hardwood Floors Around or Under My Kitchen Island?
I'm in the process of installing new engineered hardwood flooring in my kitchen, and I'm a bit torn on whether to put the hardwood around my kitchen island…
Thinking About DIY Lifeproof LVP Flooring: Pros and Cons?
Hey everyone! I'm considering installing Lifeproof LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring in five rooms of my house, but it's my first time tackling a project like this. What…
Need Help Setting Up My Window Air Conditioner
Hey everyone! I just moved into this new apartment and I'm trying to get my air conditioner set up. I've got a small 8000 BTU window unit, but…
What’s the Code on Running 10 AWG PV Wires in 1" EMT?
I'm working on installing wiring for my solar panels—specifically, I've got 6 wires (three strings of 10 AWG) coming from 24 solar panels that I need to run…
Hunter Douglas vs. Graber: Which Cellular Shades are Better?
Hi everyone! My husband and I are planning to install cellular shades throughout our home and we're torn between Hunter Douglas and Graber. We'd love to hear your…
Connecting Solar Panels to Airspool Mini Split A/C: Need Advice!
Has anyone here successfully connected solar panels to their Airspool mini split A/C unit? I'm searching for tips on the type of panels others have used. The manufacturer…
What Can I Do If My Light Fixture Base is Too Small for the Ceiling Hole?
Hey everyone! I recently bought some circular light fixtures from Etsy, but I've hit a bit of a snag. The bases of these fixtures are about 1-2cm smaller…
How Do I Fix a Prehung Door That's Too Wide for the Frame?
I've got a prehung door that measures 25 7/16 inches, but my door frame is only 24 7/8 inches wide. I'm feeling pretty frustrated after my recent installation…
Is Using Thinset Under Cement Board Necessary When Using Screws?
I recently had a bathroom contractor install cement board on my subfloor, but they only used screws to secure it—no thinset. I'm curious about how crucial it is…
Should You Attach Plywood to Studs Laying Down or Standing Up?
I've been watching a lot of videos where people fit plywood to studwork while it's still laid down. Isn't plywood crucial for keeping the wall level and square?…