How to Make Steep Stairs Bigger

Building codes typically require that stair treads be within 3/4 inch of 10 inches wide. This includes the recommended 3/4- to 1 1/4-inch overhang. Wider treads mean longer stairs. If your treads are 10 inches wide and do not overhang, you can add a 1 1/4-inch overhang by replacing them with treads made from 1-by-12s that are actually 11 1/4 inches wide. Replacing the staircase with wider treads will result in longer, less steep stairs.

How to Remove a Forklift Counterweight

Forklifts are used in warehouses to move large loads, load shipping containers and unload delivery trucks. They have the capability to lift pallets of material and place them in storage locations to maximize the vertical dimension of a room. Learn the safe way to remove a counterweight from a forklift. For a forklift to lift large loads, a counterweight is often used to shift the center of gravity of the vehicle to accommodate heavy loads or high placement.

Ideas for Temporary Shelving | HomeSteady

Temporary shelving provides a quick, take-down alternative to a permanent installation, ideal for an apartment or dorm or to display your wares during a yard sale. Repurpose materials from around the home, or purchase a ready-made system that is easy to assemble and take apart, in case you want to move it to another area in the near future. Crate Creations Milk crates that stack together create open-ended, adjustable shelving that can be built as tall or wide as you like.

R-Value for Brick vs. Wood

Brick and wood are both very common structural elements in buildings but offer relatively little insulating power. These materials can provide significant insulation if used in large quantities, producing a very thick wall. However, most structures augment their insulating ability using fiberglass, cellulose or other more insulative materials. Their R-values, which measure these materials' ability to keep heat inside or outside a home, vary depending on the type of brick or wood and the way it's used.

Spruce Vs. Cedar Wood Fence

Fences serve many purposes, from keeping pets and children out of pool areas to providing privacy from neighbors and protection from unwanted guests. There are many fencing materials, ranging from wood to plastic to metal. Untreated fencing will weather and turn color more quickly than treated fencing. Wooden fences tend to be the most affordable, making them a popular choice for homeowners on a tight budget. Spruce and cedar are just two types of wood that can be used for fencing.

Tips on Covering Old Plaster Walls

Plaster is a sturdy and affordable material that works well for most walls, but it can start to deteriorate over time, causing unsightly cracks and uneven surfaces. If you have old plaster walls, you may notice that the damage distracts from the beauty of the rest of the room. Cracks in old plaster walls are an eyesore. Luckily, there are several things you can do to remedy the situation. Before covering the walls with paint or wallpaper, it is best to repair the damaged plaster to create a more even surface and prevent further deterioration.

Ants Are Invading My Storage Shed

Ant infestations occur when you've got something the ants want: typically food but sometimes water or shelter. Your storage shed with yard waste, garbage scraps and recycling is an ant hotel and restaurant in one, so you can't blame them for trying. To successfully get rid of ants with little expense or headache, combine preventative measures with chemical control to kick them out and keep them out for good.

Can You Replace Metal Around Sink Drains?

The metal ring in the bottom of your sink helps connect the sink’s drain opening to the drainpipes located under the sink. If you choose to replace the metal ring because you are updating the look of the bathroom’s hardware or because the old ring has worn out, you must use specific techniques for the removal of the old ring and the installation of the new one. Drain Assembly You must break the seal between the sink and the drain body.

How to Clean a Smelly Mattress

Mattresses develop odor easily due to everything from regular use (perspiration and body oils build up after a while) to urine accidents and other unplanned, odor-causing problems. Things You Will Need + Vacuum cleaner Laundry detergent Bucket Tarp Rubber gloves Sponge Borax Fan It takes time to clean a smelly mattress, but when you use the right kinds of products, the results are worth the time and effort -- you will save yourself the expense of a new mattress.

How to Do a Table Swag

Simple sinuous lines define and embellish the edges of celebratory tables when you add decorative swags to party decor. Swagging a head table or the guest tables at an event adds an extra flourish to plain decor for minimal expense and effort. Whether you go for classic tulle, woven fairy lights or greenery, make sure the tablecloths are well-secured -- and get more swag material than you think you'll need.