Guide

How to Restain Stamped Concrete

Adding stain to stamped concrete is a way to bring out the stamped design even further, emphasizing the details of the design while coloring the concrete to accent the surrounding landscape. Once stained, the stamper generally seals the concrete to protect the color. Emphasize stamped concrete by restoring the color of the stain in the surface. The sealant has a limited lifespan, however, needing replacement every two to three years on average.

Combining Plaster & Drywall | HomeSteady

The U.S. Gypsum Company introduced drywall in the early 1900s, but its use didn't become widespread until the postwar housing boom in the 1950s. Consequently, it isn't unusual for older houses to have lath-and-plaster walls, and you often see repairs to these walls executed with drywall. Drywall mud and wall plaster are similar materials. The biggest issue when combining these two materials is handling the transition between them. Drywall joint compound has enough similarity to plaster, however, to make transitioning easy.

Homemade AC Filter | HomeSteady

A whole house air conditioner (AC) takes in air that is then cooled and circulated through a home. An AC air filter in the outdoor compressor unit removes loose contaminants before they can become stuck in the compressor and inhibit the free flow of air. Make your own AC filter to save money. A homemade AC filter will require supplies from a crafts store or hobby shop, and tools that are commonly found around most homes.

How to Clean a Carrier Evaporator Coil

Carrier air conditioners are designed for residential or commercial use and pull warm air into the main unit, passing the air through the evaporator coil, where it is cooled and sent back into the environment. The process of cooling the air in the evaporator coil creates condensation, which drips down into a pan. Over time, the evaporator coil may become dirty or clogged and needs cleaning to ensure proper functioning of the unit.

How to Install a Pella Sliding Patio Door

Pella sliding patio doors allow homeowners to enjoy an unobstructed view of the outdoors. You can have the door installed by a professional or do it yourself. The task is straightforward and suitable for those with a little experience in do-it-yourself home repair or construction. Prepare the Door Step 1 Inspect the rough opening. Place a level on the top, bottom and sides of the opening to make sure it's level and plumb.

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites on Hardwood Floors

You've finally gone to the allergist to get tested and find the root of your runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. When the results come back, you're surprised to find that you're allergic to dust mites! Dust mites thrive in moist humid areas with bedding and carpeting being the worst areas. One square yard of carpeting can hold up to 100,000 dust mites! Hardwood floors are the best choice for those with dust mite allergies, but how do you get rid of dust mites on hardwood floors?

How to Close the Gap Between Wood Stairs & a Wall

Close stair gaps with trim. Stair parts can be difficult to install without leaving gaps. And even if the installation is perfect, parts settle and gaps show up anyway. Stairs undergo stress from weight, expansion and contraction. Components of stairs should fit together tight, but it's not always possible. The horizontal parts of steps, also known as treads, can noticeably pull away from the wall area. Closing such gaps takes more than caulk or putty -- which won't stay put anyway.

How to Store Pens | HomeSteady

Whether you use basic ballpoint pens for your writing tasks or your pen use tends to the more sophisticated gel pens or markers for scrap-booking and other crafting pursuits, most people accumulate a collection of pens in the home or office. Store pens either vertically or horizontally. Things You Will Need + Jar, mug or can Drawer, plastic container or box Store pens properly to ensure their long and productive life and to prevent messy leaks in your pen storage containers.

Disadvantages of Natural Gas Energy

Prehistoric plants and animals are the source of today's natural gas supply. The transformation from animal or plant into gaseous substance began millions of years ago, when, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, sand and silt built up over layers of decomposed organic matter. Gas burner on stovetop As the silt and sand turned to rock, heat and pressure slowly transformed some of the solid material into natural gas.

How to Install Cement Fiber Board on Plaster Wall

If you're planning on tiling an old plaster wall, it might be a good idea to first install a layer of cement fiber board over the plaster. If the wall is in a bathroom, it's a virtual necessity. Cement fiber board looks like a harder version of drywall, but in fact it's much different. Rock-solid and waterproof, it's the perfect material for tile backing because it won't move and won't soften if moisture gets to it.