DIY & home improvement

1,417 cards. Each one is a 40-second story with a five-minute read behind it. Page 2 of 24.

  1. Mastering the mechanics of a kitchen's most essential applianceReplacing a garbage disposal is a common home maintenance task that requires precision. This guide from This Old House walks you through the essential tools and steps needed to sw…
  2. Mastering the plumbing essentials of a kitchen sink installationWatch plumbing expert Richard Trethwey demonstrate how to replace a kitchen sink and faucet in just one morning. This guide breaks down the specific materials and tools required t…
  3. The mechanics of installing a dedicated filtered water faucetLearn the precise plumbing steps required to add a filtered cold-water drinking faucet to your kitchen. This guide breaks down the specific tools and materials needed for a profes…
  4. Designing a sanctuary: the structural requirements of a home safe roomThis preview explores the complexities of integrating a secure safe room into a residential property. Watch to see how experts approach the balance of safety, structural integrity…
  5. The precise mechanics of installing professional-grade wall-to-wall carpetingMastering the transition from raw material to a finished floor requires more than just laying down fabric. This guide breaks down the specific tools and techniques needed to ensur…
  6. The essential steps to improving your home's thermal efficiencyLearn the proper technique for insulating an attic from professional contractors. This guide breaks down a manageable DIY project that can significantly impact your home's comfort…
  7. Why architectural epoxy is the secret to saving rotted window trimWatch general contractor Tom Silva demonstrate how to stabilize and repair decaying wood using a specialized two-part epoxy filler. This guide explains how to restore structural i…
  8. The structural physics of opening up a home's interiorRemoving a load-bearing wall is a high-stakes engineering task. General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the precise process required to cut into a wall without compromising the …
  9. The professional secret to a cabinet finish that actually lastsMost DIY kitchen projects fail because the paint eventually peels or chips. Professional painters like Rich O'Neil use a specific sequence of degreasing, bonding, and multi-layer …
  10. Modern techniques for restoring historic plaster wallsRepairing cracked or loose plaster doesn't have to be a daunting restoration project. This video demonstrates a contemporary, efficient method for stabilizing and fixing these tra…
  11. The precise mechanics of restoring a hardwood floor's original surfaceRestoring a hardwood floor is a meticulous process of removal and preparation. This guide from This Old House explains the professional techniques for stripping old finishes while…
  12. The science of creating a professional-grade garage floorTransforming a standard concrete garage into a durable, stain-resistant surface requires more than just a coat of paint. This guide explores the specific techniques used by expert…
  13. The precise geometry of laying a natural bluestone walkwayMastering the art of hardscaping requires more than just heavy lifting. Watch as landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the professional techniques needed to install a durab…
  14. Mastering the art of the glass tile kitchen backsplashLearn a streamlined method for installing a glass tile backsplash. General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates a fast, no-fuss technique designed to simplify a common kitchen renova…
  15. The chemistry of color: mastering the art of wood finishingTransforming raw timber into a polished heirloom requires more than just paint. This preview explores the technical sequence of conditioning, staining, and sealing to achieve a pr…
  16. The secrets to achieving a flawless spray paint finishMastering spray paint requires more than just pulling the trigger. Landscape contractor Roger Cook breaks down the essential tools and techniques needed to move from messy drips t…
  17. Mastering the art of replacing an entry door within an existing frameLearn the essential techniques used by a professional general contractor to swap out an old front door for a new one without replacing the entire frame.
  18. The engineering behind a stable backyard fire pitBuilding a fire pit requires more than just placing stones. This guide walks through a professional landscaping approach to create a durable, well-drained oasis for cold weather.
  19. Why your hardwood floors might be squeakingIn this video, general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to silence noisy floorboards. You will learn about the specific construction methods that cause friction and how to ad…
  20. How to professionally install a modern 200-amp electrical service panel in your homeMaster electrician Scott Caron demonstrates the final steps of upgrading a home electrical system. This video covers the physical installation of a new panel, from mounting the ha…
  21. Mastering the essentials of installing plumbing for a new double-bowl kitchen sinkPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the professional process for installing the drainage and supply lines for a double-bowl kitchen sink. This guide covers the necessar…
  22. Why your shower loses pressure when mixing hot and cold waterPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to diagnose and fix a faulty shower mixing valve. If your shower struggles to maintain full water pressure when blending tempera…
  23. How to Properly Tap a Water Supply Line for Your Refrigerator DispenserPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the professional method for connecting a refrigerator water and ice dispenser. This guide covers the essential components and tools …
  24. Stop wasting water while waiting for your shower to heat upPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install a hot water recirculation pump. This device circulates water through your pipes to ensure hot water is available on d…
  25. How to repair a leaking flat rubber roof using a new patchGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the professional method for sealing a leak in a flat rubber roof. This guide covers the essential materials and preparation needed to ins…
  26. Transforming a doorway into a window requires careful structural framing and weatherproofing.General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the technical process of converting an oversized door opening into a window. This guide outlines the essential materials and structural s…
  27. How to recreate period-accurate woodwork using standard workshop power toolsGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates professional techniques for crafting custom reproduction moldings. This guide explains how to replicate authentic profiles for restoratio…
  28. A historic Greek Revival rowhouse gets a modern update in Charlestown, MassachusettsThis Old House returns for its 35th season with a renovation project in a historic Boston neighborhood. The team assists homeowner Angela Daigle in updating her 1850 rowhouse, fea…
  29. Prevent winter pipe bursts by upgrading to a frost-proof outdoor sillcockPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to replace a standard outdoor faucet with a frost-proof sillcock. This upgrade is a practical solution for protecting your home'…
  30. Why installing a chimney liner is a task for a qualified professional technicianHost Kevin O'Connor visits a Dallas home to demonstrate the process of lining a fireplace chimney. This video highlights the importance of safety when working with wood-burning fi…
  31. How to rescue a garage door post from severe rot and decayGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of repairing a neglected and badly decayed garage door post and jambs. This video provides a practical guide for homeowners l…
  32. Why you should clear your garden beds before the winter frost sets inLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the essential steps to prepare a vegetable garden for winter. By removing old mulch and amending the soil, you can protect your garden…
  33. How to stop ice dams from growing on your roof this winterGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates practical techniques to manage ice dams. Learn how to address existing buildup and insulate your attic to prevent future damage, ensuring…
  34. Transform a single sheet of plywood into a durable, mobile utility cartGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to construct a versatile utility cart using basic materials. This project is designed for organizing and transporting tools or suppli…
  35. Master the art of removing stubborn wallpaper with professional techniquesPainter Jim Clark demonstrates how to cleanly remove even the most difficult wallpaper. This guide provides the essential tools and solutions needed to tackle home renovation proj…
  36. From simple mercury switches to smart systems: the evolution of home climate controlRichard Trethewey explains how modern smart thermostats have transformed home climate control. Once basic on-off switches, these devices now manage multiple zones, monitor energy …
  37. Can a solar thermal system effectively reduce your home water heating energy costs?Plumbing and heating experts Richard Trethewey and Bob Dudley demonstrate how to install a solar thermal water heating system. This video explains the mechanics of using rooftop c…
  38. Transforming a drab city concrete slab into a vibrant, functional urban oasisLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates how to revitalize an aging concrete patio in San Francisco. By utilizing modular deck tiles and strategic landscaping, this project of…
  39. Why your pipes bang when you turn off the faucet and how to stop itPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install a water hammer arrestor to silence noisy pipes. This video provides a practical solution for homeowners dealing with …
  40. Expanding a bathroom vanity to accommodate a second sink requires careful structural and plumbing adjustments.Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of installing a second sink into an existing bathroom vanity. This project involves modifying cabinet storag…
  41. Selecting the right wood filler for every repair, from interior trim to exterior gaps.General contractor Tom Silva explains how to choose the correct material for plugging holes and cracks in wood and PVC. This guide covers the best options for painted surfaces, st…
  42. Upgrade your home exterior with properly installed and planted window boxesGeneral contractor Tom Silva and landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrate the professional process for mounting window boxes and selecting the right greenery. This guide provid…
  43. Lower your heating bills by letting the weather control your boiler's water temperature.Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install an outdoor reset control, a device that adjusts your hydronic heating system based on external air temperatures. This simple upgrade …
  44. Transform Your Urban Space Into a Low-Maintenance Sanctuary With These Proven Design StrategiesCreating a thriving city garden does not require endless hours of labor. By selecting the right plants, utilizing large containers, and embracing strategic design choices like mul…
  45. How to seamlessly patch damaged tongue-and-groove oak flooring in your homeGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the professional process for replacing damaged sections of oak strip flooring. This guide covers the essential steps for removing comprom…
  46. Improve your home's energy efficiency by upgrading your attic insulationGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates a cost-effective method for increasing attic insulation. By layering different materials and creating a raised storage platform, you can …
  47. How to safely replace a corroded cast-iron whole-house plumbing trapPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the essential tools and professional techniques required to remove and replace a corroded cast-iron whole-house plumbing trap. This …
  48. Replacing rotten wooden stairs with durable granite steps for a lasting entranceLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the process of upgrading a home entrance by replacing decaying wooden stairs with granite. This guide covers the essential materials a…
  49. Restore your aging toilet tank to full working order with these expert techniques.Plumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of rebuilding an old toilet tank. This guide provides the essential tools and preparation steps needed to refresh your b…
  50. How a pellet stove uses recycled wood to heat your living room efficientlyPlumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and installer Rob Dardano demonstrate the process of adding a pellet stove as a supplemental heat source. This video details the mech…
  51. How to properly replace a leaky skylight in an existing roof openingGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of replacing a leaky skylight. This guide covers the essential materials and hardware required to ensure a secure, weather-ti…
  52. How to identify and clear a stubborn blockage in your home plumbing vent systemPlumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates a professional approach to diagnosing and resolving a clogged vent stack. By using specialized equipment to inspect the …
  53. Master the art of installing a new mosaic-tile floor in your bathroomContractor Angelo McRae demonstrates the professional process for tiling a bathroom floor. This guide covers essential techniques for layout and application, providing a clear loo…
  54. Improve your home's indoor air quality by installing an electronic air cleanerPlumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of installing an electronic air cleaner to enhance indoor air quality. This guide outlines the necessary mat…
  55. Master the installation of durable fiber-cement siding with expert guidanceGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of installing fiber-cement shingles. This video serves as a practical guide for those looking to improve their home exterior …
  56. Transform your patio into a serene aquatic sanctuary with a simple DIY lily pondBuilding a backyard lily pond is a surprisingly manageable project that brings Zen to your garden. By constructing a sturdy wooden box and lining it with a waterproof membrane, yo…
  57. How to effectively clear stubborn ice and packed snow from your concrete walkwayLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates professional techniques for removing compacted snow and ice from walkways. This guide covers the essential tools and de-icing material…
  58. How to install a durable outdoor water source using modern flexible plastic plumbingPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of adding a frost-resistant hose bibb to a home. By utilizing flexible PEX tubing instead of traditional rigid materials…
  59. Upgrade your kitchen utility by installing a modern pull-out faucet and sprayer unitPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of replacing a standard kitchen faucet with a combined pull-out sprayer model. This guide provides a clear look at the n…
  60. Protect your home plumbing system by installing a water pressure reducing valveHigh water pressure can damage your home's plumbing. Plumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install a pressure-reducing valve to manage and stabilize water flow, en…

All of Society Open the feed Latest A–Z