November 20th, 2008 — Doors, Garage, Handy Man, Install, Safety
Having a garage door opener makes life a lot easier and it can add safety features to an existing door. There are numerous kinds of opener and more kinds of doors, but for the sake of brevity, we’re going to cover installing a garage door opener that mounts on the wall above the door. This type of installation allows for more head room and can be a lot safer. The type of door for this opener is usually the type that will either fold up, or that can be raised on a track.
First, you’ll need to follow the instructions that are included with your opener. All openers are different, and while we can supply some general tips, you’ll need to make sure you are using the right tools and techniques for your particular opener. Keep these instructions in a safe place when you’re done in case you ever need to repair your opener.
Ok, let’s get started. Before you go any further, disconnect the power to the garage. First, you’re going to need to mount that opener above the garage door. Make sure that the wall is sturdy enough to handle the weight since some openers can be quite heavy. Using countersunk screws, attach the provided mounting brackets to the wall. You will need to make sure that you are attaching these brackets to a stud and that the screws are firmly in place.
Attach the wires in the motor to the switch on the wall. You may need some additional help from a qualified electrician if this is a brand new installation. If you’re just replacing an opener, follow the instructions to hook up the wires correctly. Make sure that you do everything correctly - wiring is not something you want to mess with. IMPORTANT: make sure that you properly hookup the emergency disconnect device. This will save a life if someone gets trapped under the door.
Now, attach the motor to the brackets, taking special care to make sure that it is secure. Attach the motor to the door using the provided belts or chains. Again, all openers are different, so at this point you will need to refer back to your instructions. Set that emergency disconnect device to MANUAL before going any further.
Raise up the door until it is completely up and then put it back down until it is completely down. Make sure that there aren’t any hitches in its movement. It should be fluid and as noise free as possible. Keep in mind that belt attachments are usually much quieter than chains.
Plug in the opener and then set up the remote control. Follow your unit’s instructions. Clean up the area and double check all connections. Turn the power back on and test the unit. Please note that it’s best to be outside of the garage during testing to avoid getting trapped inside. (It does happen.) Once you’re sure everything is working properly, you’re all set - go have a cold drink and celebrate!
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November 14th, 2008 — Bathroom, Handy Man, Install, Replace, Toilet
Installing a toilet is a lot easier than you might think and just about anyone can do it. Whether your old toilet is past its usefulness or you want to add a new one to match your décor, the process is pretty easy and should only take a few hours. Before you get started, you’re going to need a few basic tools. They include:
- plumber’s putty
- pipe wrenches to fit your pipes
- screwdrivers
- regular wrenches
- putty knife
- silicone
- an old rag
Let’s get started!
IMPORTANT: Not all new toilets come with the necessary parts. BEFORE you get started make sure that your new toilet has everything you need for installation. You can ask the store clerks where you got the toilet for more information.
First, you’re going to need to remove your old toilet. Turn the shutoff valve (it’s located right near the toilet) to the off position. Flush the toilet a few times and then mop up any excess water. Now, disconnect the water supply tube from the toilet. You may have some additional water here, but it shouldn’t be much. If necessary, place a sponge underneath it before you loosen the bolts. You may need to use your wrench if the area is corroded.
Once this is complete, you will then need to loosen the bolts on the toilet. Remove the little caps on either side of the base and undo these bolts. Again, you may need to use that wrench or a pair of pliers to get it going. In severe cases, you may need to hacksaw them off or use WD40 to loosen the bolts.
Now, you’re going to have to separate the old tank from the old bowl. Get your screwdriver and use it to hold the end of the bolt on the inside of the tank. Use your wrench to move the nut on the other side. Slowly remove the bolt and then rock the bowl from side to side. You’re going to want to do this pretty gently so you don’t damage the bowl. Once it’s loose, lift it out and place it in a safe place. Move the tank as well.
You’ll most likely notice a big hole in the floor and there may be a nasty smell coming out of it. This is the line to the sewer. Grab that old rag and stuff it into the hole (not too far or you’ll end up losing the rag and you’ll have to call a plumber to get it back.) You need to block this hole immediately or you will have dangerous sewer gases floating around your home and trust us, no one wants that.
Use that putty knife around this hole to scrape off any excess wax from the old gasket. Upend the new toilet and take your new gasket. Place it around the hole on the toilet and caulk it. Remove the rag from the sewer line and place the new toilet over it. Gently rock the new bowl into place until the seal is firm. Add on the new tank, attach the fittings inside and then bolt the new toilet down to the floor. Don’t overtighten those bolts or you will crack the bowl. Use your plumbers putty to attach the caps over the bolts. Reattach the water line and give her a flush!
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November 11th, 2008 — Aesthetics, Curb Appeal, Handy Man, Replace, Windows
Replacing your windows can bring numerous benefits to your home. Not only will they look nicer and add value to your property, but you can also gain significant energy savings. Most new windows are now heat and cold efficient and will greatly reduce the amount of drafts coming in as well as UV rays. If you’re ready to get started, you’ll need to get some tools together first. You’ll need the following: crowbar (to remove old window), power sander or rough grade sandpaper, screwdrivers of varying sizes, pliers (just in case), gloves, insulation (either blow in or standard), clamps, wood shims, paint, plastic sheeting and either screws or wood glue depending on how your new windows will be installed.
IMPORTANT: Always measure your windows and casings before you attempt to replace one. It is a lot easier to take care of size issues before you’re left with a big hole in the wall. Take the time to make sure that everything lines up BEFORE you do any replacements. Also - it is a good idea to make sure that the area where you will be working has the electricity turned off. This is very important - you could accidentally cut a wire while you are removing the old window. No one enjoys being electrocuted! Take the time to be safe and take the right precautions.
Before you can install the new windows, you’re going to have to remove the old ones. First, you’ll need to remove the window itself, taking special care not to break the glass. Remove it and place it aside in a safe place. Now, you’re most likely going to need to remove the window casing so that your new window will fit properly. Either unscrew or use that crowbar to pry it apart. You should be left with an empty hole. Sand the edges down to make sure the new casing will fit.
Now that you’ve prepped the wall, you can insert the new casing. You will most likely need to refer to the installation instructions that came with your new window, since most are different. Generally however, you’ll need to attach the new casing with either screws or wood glue. If using glue, make sure that you also clamp the casing and give it time to dry before installing the window. If necessary, use the plastic sheeting to block the hole until the glue is dry.
It is a good idea to fill any gaps with insulation. If the gaps are large, you can use regular insulation, but most people prefer the spray type that comes in a can. It will expand after you blow it into the holes, so don’t use too much. Cut off any excess after it is dry and sand the area down. You may need to further cover this with wood if the gap is large. If not, you can paint over the area to match your walls or your home’s exterior.
Once your casing is ready, you can begin installing the new window. Most will slip into the grooves that are on the casing, but it may take a little time to line everything up. Remember, be gentle and never force the window into the casing. You risk breaking the glass and having to start all over again. After the new window is installed, make sure it works properly and you’re all set.
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