How to Screen In Your Porch

November 11th, 2008 — Handy Man, Install, Porch, Screen 

porchThere is nothing quite like sitting on your porch during a relaxing evening after dinner. Especially if you’re trying to dodge mosquitoes and other nasty little insects. While you may not be able to completely get rid of these insects, there is a way to easily create your own screened in porch and you don’t even need a lot of experience. Most anyone can do this, and it’s well worth the time and effort.

Before you get started, you’re going to need some tools and materials. First, you’ll need enough screening material to completely screen in the porch. Get your square foot measurements and go to your local hardware store for the material. While you’re there it’s also helpful to pick up a utility knife for trimming the screening material.

You’ll Need:

  • screening
  • framing wood
  • chalk
  • utility knife
  • nails
  • hammer
  • level

Mark off the area that you want to screen in with your chalk. Try to draw as straight of a line as possible since you will be using this as your guide for your new screens. If your porch already has a roof, you’re already half way done. If not, you’re going to have to add one. Unless you have experience roofing, it is a good idea to call a professional to have this done. This is the only step that requires any professional assistance however.

Once your roof is up, you can begin adding your framing wood. Attach the wood at the top and bottom using screws for a secure fit. Make sure you use that level to plumb and level each piece while you’re at it. Your boards should be placed about four feet apart, or at the most, six feet. When you have the whole perimeter of your porch framed in, you’ll be able to start adding your screening material. Don’t forget you should have a door leading outside for your porch, to make it safe. Frame this in and either make your own screen door, or purchase one from the hardware store.

Cut the material to fit your frames and make sure the edges are nice and neat. You can use the utility knife to get a good, clean edge. Keep in mind you may need to go over it again once it’s installed to clear up any rough edges. Nail in the screening material to the frames, taking special care to avoid any gaps. If you do have an area that has gaps, take some thread that matches the screening material and sew the two pieces together. This is an easy fix that gets quick results.

Once your screening material is in, you’ll want to clean up the rough edges and make sure that everything is secure. You can now sit back and enjoy your time outside without having to swat at bugs. This is an easy project that shouldn’t take more than a weekend to complete if you have basic DIY experience.

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How to Build Your Own Dog Kennel

September 27th, 2008 — Aesthetics, Create, Handy Man, Project, Yard, concrete 

If you need a safe way to keep Fido contained in your yard, or you are sick of having them dig up everything in sight, installing a dog kennel is a great solution. While you can buy one at a store, these are often either too short for large dogs, or simply too small in size for the average dog. Building your own dog kennel is not difficult and you’ll be able to install it where you want it in your yard, so that it becomes a fixture, not an eye sore. A nice dog kennel can even add to the value of your home, especially if you take the time to do it right. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. Level an area.

Find an area where you will be putting the dog kennel and mark off the distance. Once you have an idea of how large it will be, you can start leveling this area off. This is important to ensure good drainage and to keep the concrete you will be pouring later from cracking. If necessary, rent some tools that will help you completely flatten out the site to be on the safe side.

2. Pour your concrete.

Once the site is level, you can pour concrete to give you a solid base for your dog kennel. While you can use just regular ground, there is the chance that the dog will be able to dig out from the kennel, and it can be harder to keep clean. A concrete surface can simply be sprayed with a hose to clean it regularly and your dog won’t have as many opportunities for escape.

3. Plant your posts.

You should have metal posts that are at least three feet longer than you want your kennel to be tall. These will need to be buried deep in the ground, and you may want to consider adding concrete to the holes for greater stability. This will provide you with a very sturdy kennel that will not be at risk for blowing over or falling down. Space your posts about six feet a part, or four if necessary.

4. Purchase and install fencing material.

Red Brand fencing works very well for dog kennels, since it is durable enough to withstand even the roughest dogs, but light weight enough to make it easy to install. Look for either chain link fence, or a small square wire fencing material. This will usually come in a roll that you can unwind, and attach to your posts.

5. Attach the fencing material.

This should be done with high quality ties that will be able to hold up to the elements and your dog. The ties should be placed around each post, and you’ll need at least three for each post. Err on the side of caution and use more if you are dealing with a dog that is a known escape artist. You can use this same material to create your gate and you’re all set with a new dog kennel.

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