Tips

How to Paint Over Fake Wood Grain Paneling

Fake wood grain paneling is composed of high-density polyurethane manufactured to provide an cheap alternative to actual wood panels. Unfortunately, unlike actual wood, these panels are slick and nonporous making them poor surfaces for paint adhesion. If you would like to paint over fake wood grain paneling, you will need to apply a bonding primer, first, or the paint will peel up. In addition, you will need to abrade the surface to promote adhesion before you prime, or the primer will chip away over time.

Aluminum Roofing Vs. Steel Roofing

Metal roofing is a popular finish option for residential and commercial buildings. It is available in a variety of styles and materials, and is known for its durability and strength. Metal roofs can easily last for decades with little maintenance, and are commonly made from steel or aluminum. When choosing a metal roof, consider factors like cost, appearance and maintenance to determine material best for your home. Appearance Aluminum Roofing Vs.

How to Control Water Levels in Ponds

Controlling water levels is and important part of pond design. Maintaining an adequate volume of water is essential for the health of organisms living in the pond as well as the pond's appearance on your property. Whether you will be traveling for extended periods or simply want to avoid the hassle of refilling the pond, installing a float valve in your pond will automatically refill your pond when the water level drops.

How to Repair Loose Vinyl Siding

Over time, vinyl siding panels can become loose. This can cause panels to chip or crack if left unattended. By using a vinyl siding removal tool, you can guide loose panels back into place. Proper vinyl siding maintenance helps preserve the look of your home while reducing heating and cooling costs. Vinyl siding reduces potential wind damage and prevents insects and animals from nesting in the exterior of your home.

The Difference Between a Natural & Man Made Ecosystem

The difference between natural and manmade ecosystems comes down to whether nature created the environment or if man did. A zoo is a manmade environment, while a river is a natural environment. The Difference Between a Natural & Man Made Ecosystem Ecosystems refer to specific biological environments and all of the organisms in them, including their interactions with the living and nonliving components of the environment. Some of the living components of an ecosystem include its animals and plants.

DIY Mulch Plug | HomeSteady

A mulch plug covers up the exit port on a lawnmower to force the grass downward to the ground. This cuts up the grass into a mulch. Grass mulch is a good way to protect your lawn and helps keep the lawn hydrated during hot months. Not all mowers have a mulch plug built in. Many lawnmowers have a built-in mulch pug that automatically comes down when you remove the exit port on the mower deck.

How to Protect Decks From Planters

Moisture is a serious problem for wood decks, and it can eventually lead to rotting, cracking or mold-growth. While greenery on a deck looks lovely and adds to your exterior decor, water from your planters can become a major concern. For deck wood to last, it needs proper protection from the water that can become trapped beneath your planters. Protect decks from the dampness associated with planters. Step 1 Stain the deck soon after installation to protect it from moisture and weathering.

How to Cut Ceiling Light Panels

Ceiling light panels are available at home improvement centers and lighting supply stores in industry standard sizes of 23 3/4 inches wide by 23 3/4 or 47 3/4 inches long. Unfortunately, light fixtures that require light panels are not always the same size. Cutting your own ceiling light panels gives a custom fit. Things You Will Need + Measuring tape Felt-tip pen Straightedge Plastic sheet cutting tool Board You can order custom-sized ceiling light panels or save some money and cut your own to the size you need.

How to Paint Steam Pipes

Painting steam pipes is a project that most homeowners can accomplish. You need to consider a few things before painting metals and steam lines. Metal will require a special paint. You also need a heat resistant paint. If you are painting old pipes you will need to strip them and drain the lines. This will also mean shutting down the furnace. It is best to do the project in the summer.

How to Remove the Lower Spray Arm in Hotpoint Dishwashers

Removing the lower spray arm in a Hotpoint dishwasher can appear difficult on first glance. In the majority of dishwashers, the lower spray arm is held in place by a series of washers and screws. However, this isn't the case in Hotpoint dishwashers. The lower spray arms in these dishwashers clip into place and can be removed by simply gripping and lifting up on the piece. This can be confusing, because it is a little different from the norm, but there actually isn't any special trick to it.