DIY & home improvement

1,417 cards. Each one is a 40-second story with a five-minute read behind it. Page 3 of 24.

121. Upgrade your drafty fireplace to a high-efficiency wood-burning heating machineRichard Trethewey demonstrates how to boost the heat output of an existing fireplace by installing an energy-efficient wood-burning insert. This process involves critical safety a…
122. Why your deck posts rot and how to replace them safelyGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to replace rotted deck posts. By installing temporary bracing and using modern hardware, you can prevent moisture damage and ensure y…
123. Upgrade your outdoor hosting with a durable, portable cedar bar cartDitch the Styrofoam cooler for a custom-built mobile bar cart designed to handle sun, rain, and uneven terrain. This project, demonstrated by Mark Powers, uses cedar and outdoor-g…
124. Why your basement sink needs an electric pump to reach the main sewer linePlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install an electric pump to drain a basement sink. This solution is necessary when a sink sits below the level of the main se…
125. How to install a water heater when your home lacks a traditional chimneyPlumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of installing a direct-vent water heater. This method is essential for homes without a chimney, as it uses s…
126. Why digging four feet deep is essential for a stable deck footingGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the professional process for installing concrete deck footings. This guide explains how to determine placement, prepare the ground, and p…
127. Prevent laundry room floods by installing an automatic washing machine shutoff valvePlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to add overflow protection to your laundry setup. This video provides a practical guide for installing an automatic shutoff valv…
128. How to seamlessly repair a large doorknob hole in an antique doorGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the Dutchman technique to patch a 2⅛ inch hole in a door. This method creates an undetectable wood repair, allowing homeowners to restore…
129. How to properly rebuild a staircase balustrade that fails to meet building codesGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the professional techniques required to install a new, sturdy stair banister. This video provides practical guidance for homeowners looki…
130. Securely mounting window boxes to brick requires specialized tools and hardware for masonry.General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the proper technique for fastening outdoor containers to brick siding. This guide covers the essential hardware and tools needed to ensur…
131. Enhance Your Curb Appeal With a Sturdy, Custom-Built Decorative Driveway MarkerA well-proportioned driveway marker adds a touch of classic charm to any home, helping it stand out from the neighborhood. Designed by furniture maker Christopher Beidel, this pro…
132. Transform Your Garage Door Into an Architectural Feature With a Custom PergolaA garage door is often the first thing you see when arriving home. This video demonstrates how to elevate this utilitarian space by installing a decorative pergola, adding archite…
133. The Essential Toolkit and Supplies for Installing Linoleum Tile FlooringInstalling linoleum tile requires specific tools and materials to ensure a professional finish. This guide outlines the necessary equipment and components needed to complete the p…
134. Why build a sliding barn door instead of installing a traditional pocket door?Building a sliding barn door is a practical alternative to installing a pocket door because it eliminates the need to rip open and reframe your wall. This video demonstrates how t…
135. How to add a dedicated filtered water faucet to your existing kitchen sink setupPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the process of installing a water filtration system that provides clean, filtered water directly from a separate faucet at your kitc…
136. How to effectively repair a fractured concrete foundation using professional techniquesGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process for repairing cracks in a concrete foundation. This guide provides the necessary tools and materials to address structural fr…
137. Launch a backyard rocket using only recycled soda bottles and basic plumbing partsThis project demonstrates how to construct a functional water-powered rocket using common household materials. It is designed as a collaborative activity for adults and children t…
138. How to fabricate custom aluminum flashing for a weather-tight window sealGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of creating custom-fit aluminum Z-flashing. This video provides a practical guide for homeowners looking to protect their win…
139. Use steel edging to create clean, permanent borders between your lawn and garden beds.Landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the professional method for separating grass from garden beds. By installing steel edging, you can maintain a sharp, distinct boundary…
140. Upgrade your existing toilet to a dual-flush system to save water efficientlyPlumbing and heating contractor Richard Trethewey demonstrates a practical method for retrofitting a standard toilet into a dual-flush model. This modification allows homeowners t…
141. Transforming a cold, bare basement into a warm, functional living spaceGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the essential steps for preparing and insulating concrete basement walls. This guide covers sealing leaks and installing a framework to s…
142. Restore a sunken brick walkway to its original level and stabilityLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the professional process for repairing a brick path that has settled over time. This guide covers the essential tools and materials re…
143. Upgrading your kitchen ventilation system with a professional range hood installationGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of installing a new range vent hood. This video provides a practical look at the necessary tools and materials required to co…
144. Why Is Your Hydrangea Not Blooming? A Landscape Expert Diagnoses The Common ProblemLandscape contractor Roger Cook addresses a frequent homeowner frustration: a hydrangea that refuses to bloom. This segment from Ask This Old House offers a professional diagnosis…
145. How to properly install plumbing for a new washing machine setupPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the essential steps for installing washing machine connections. This guide covers the necessary structural framing and pipework requ…
146. How a whole-house fan uses attic ventilation to cool your entire homeGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates an efficient method for cooling a home by installing a whole-house fan. This project helps reduce air-conditioning expenses by leveraging…
147. Master the craft of fabricating a custom plastic-laminate kitchen countertop at homeGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the professional techniques required to build a stylish laminate countertop. This guide provides the essential knowledge for DIY enthusia…
148. Manage excess basement water by installing a permanent underground dry well systemLandscape professional Roger Cook demonstrates a reliable method for directing sump pump discharge away from your home foundation. This guide outlines the essential components and…
149. Professional techniques for installing sheet vinyl flooring in your homeGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the process of laying down vinyl sheet flooring. This video provides a practical look at the tools and materials required for this specif…
150. Choosing the right insulation for your home requires understanding diverse materials and installation methodsInsulating your home is a primary strategy for reducing energy bills and increasing thermal efficiency. From liquid spray foams to recycled denim, the variety of materials availab…
151. How to fix a wobbly newel post using only a single screwGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates a straightforward method for stabilizing a loose newel post. By using a brace and a long screw, you can secure the post firmly to the sta…
152. Selecting the right interior molding to define the character of your home's rooms.General contractor Tom Silva explains the variety of molding options available for interior trim. This guide helps you navigate the selection process to effectively finish a room,…
153. Prevent a Potential Flood by Replacing Your Water Heater's Corroded Nipple FittingPlumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to identify and replace a rusted, ready-to-burst nipple fitting on a water heater. This essential maintenance task helps homeown…
154. How to Properly Install a Wall-Mounted Microwave with an Exhaust FanGeneral contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the technical process of installing a wall-mounted microwave oven equipped with a ducted fan hood. This guide covers the essential materi…
155. Transforming an outdated brick fireplace with a new custom mantel and granite surroundUpdating a dated fireplace requires more than just a fresh coat of paint. By removing old brickwork and installing a custom wooden mantel alongside polished granite, you can compl…
156. Why switching sink styles requires more than just a new basinReplacing a vessel sink with a self-rimming model is often seen as a simple swap, but it involves structural changes to your countertop. Because the two types sit differently on s…
157. The precision required to install a vintage mortised locksetRestoring a home often means preserving its history. This video demonstrates the technical trade secrets for installing a vintage mortised lockset, moving beyond basic hardware to…
158. Why your bathroom fan needs more than just a simple power cordA bathroom fan does more than just move air; it manages moisture to protect your home's structural integrity. To do this effectively, the installation requires a precise path from…
159. The precise mechanics of cutting every type of plumbing pipeMastering the correct tool for different materials is the difference between a clean joint and a ruined project. Contractor Richard Trethewey breaks down the specific cutters requ…
160. When your water softener breaks, it can clog your entire plumbing systemWatch as plumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to repair a malfunctioning water softener. This guide covers the critical steps to prevent resin beads from damaging yo…
161. Creating livable space from below-grade areas requires specific structural framingTransforming a basement into a functional room involves more than just hanging drywall. General contractor Tom Silva demonstrates the essential techniques for partitioning off bel…
162. How heat pump technology turns ambient air into hot waterReplacing an aging electric water heater with a heat pump model offers significant efficiency gains. This video guides you through the specific plumbing requirements and tools nee…
163. Swapping a standard light fixture for a functional ceiling fanReplacing a static light with a moving fan requires more than just swapping parts. Electrical contractor John Barros demonstrates the specific hardware and steps needed to ensure …
164. Why your fence gate is sagging and how to fix itA sagging gate is often a sign of failing hardware rather than a structural collapse. This guide from This Old House explains how to replace inadequate hinges with weather-resista…
165. The precise chemistry of transforming raw timber into finished furnitureWood finishing is more than just applying color; it is a systematic process of preparation, conditioning, and protection. Expert Bruce Johnson demonstrates how to achieve professi…
166. The invisible path of water from your bathroom to the foyerA mysterious water stain on a ceiling can be a plumbing nightmare. Often, the source is hidden behind walls and floor tiles, requiring a systematic investigation to separate routi…
167. Why your outdoor faucet freezes (and how to fix it)Standard hose faucets are vulnerable to freezing because they allow water to sit in the pipe. This guide shows you how to replace them with frost-proof models that protect your pl…
168. The precise mechanics of installing ceiling-mounted pendant lightsHost Kevin O'Connor demonstrates the professional standard for mounting light fixtures. This guide breaks down the specific tools and electrical components required to transition …
169. Automating your landscape with professional in-ground sprinkler systemsLandscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the process of installing an automatic irrigation system for lawns and gardens. This guide provides a practical overview of the tools …
170. Transitioning from electric to gas cooking requires precise plumbing expertiseUpgrading your kitchen's primary heat source involves more than just swapping appliances. This guide explores the technical requirements for installing a propane-fueled stove, fea…
171. Upgrading your bathroom with high-efficiency water conservationReplacing an old toilet with a dual-flush model is a practical way to save water without sacrificing functionality. This guide from This Old House breaks down the essential tools …
172. Engineering Play: The Mechanics of Building a Backyard Mini-Golf CourseTransform your backyard into a custom recreation space with a project designed for multi-generational building. This guide breaks down the specific materials and tools needed to c…
173. The hidden hazard of pre-1978 homes: managing lead paint safelyRenovating a vintage home can be a dream, but it often hides a toxic reality. Before you pick up a scraper, understanding how to contain lead dust is essential for your family's s…
174. Behind the scenes of home improvement's most trusted adviceGo behind the curtain of the Ask This Old House set to see how the team handles a virtual truckload of viewer questions. This look at the production reveals the personalities behi…
175. The youngest house ever to grace the screens of This Old HouseExperience a rare renovation project that breaks tradition. Watch as general contractor Tom Silva and his team take on a 1966 Garrison Colonial in Lexington, Massachusetts.
176. The professional secrets to busting up massive bouldersRemoving large rocks from your landscape can be a daunting task. Landscape contractor Roger Cook shares his specific techniques and essential tool list for breaking down boulders …
177. Why your home's heating pipes are making a racket at nightDiscover the simple mechanical reason behind noisy hot water systems and how to silence them without replacing your entire plumbing setup.
178. Why your home's heating system sounds like a construction siteA noisy forced-air system is often more than just an annoyance; it can indicate structural issues in your ductwork. This guide from This Old House explains how to identify and sil…
179. The hidden engineering required to silence a rattling shower valveA shaky pipe isn't just an annoyance; it's a sign of structural instability within your walls. Fixing it often requires a strategic detour. Instead of damaging your finished tile,…
180. Why some basement bathrooms require more than just standard plumbingInstalling a bathroom below grade presents unique waste management challenges. This guide from This Old House explains how to use specialized technology to make these spaces funct…

All of Society Open the feed Latest A–Z