Secrets of the Screw by Tim Tulethyme

Secrets of the Screw by Tim Tulethyme

I often see friends and fellow home-improvers using screws in their DIY efforts, and it never ceases to amaze me how hard some of these people find it to make a simple screw do what it's designed for. lets take a look at why. Of the two basic types of screw (Phillips cross head and the older 'traditional' slot head) the Phillips is gaining ground rapidly, due mainly to the fact that the extra cross-slot means you can apply more force and thus drive it into denser materials.

You need both types of screwdriver in your toolbox, because believe you me, nothing ruins a screwdriver faster than using it on the wrong type of screw! But what type of screw to use? Let's focus on common plywood for a moment - a material we often use at www.homeimprovementor.com because of its cheapness and versatility. You use number 8 screws for plywood up to 5/8th of an inch thick. Between 1/2 an inch and 3/8ths of an inch, you need a number 6. above that, try a number 4.

To join 2 pieces of wood with a screw, follow these easy steps. Firstly, make a mark where you plan to do the screwing. Position the pieces together and fasten with a clamp or your mighty left hand. Depending on the job, you may be able to use your body weight thru your knee to hold the bits in place. If neither of these methods are practicable, and you intend to sit several screws, use the first one as an effective 'clamp' by tightening it firm before you start the other screws.

Drill a quick pilot hole thru the bits. This pilot hole should be less than half the diameter of the screw you intend to insert. Handy www.homeimprovementor.com tip - if you want to gauge the depth your have drilled, place a bit of tape on the drill bit.

Countersink on the top piece of wood, so the job will look nice and sit flush. Insert the screw and tighten till the head is flush with the countersunk hole. Don't over-tighten or most modern self-tapping screws will start to 'chew up' the wood, and may even become loose!

To hide the screw head (especially important on jobs where security is an issue!) use a dowel plug. You'll have to drill the countersink a little deeper for this, of course. After inserting the plug, simply sand it down level with the board.

Handy tip to prevent splitting when screwing near the end of a board - drill a larger hole and insert a dowel, then screw into THAT instead of the wood itself. Easy huh? Till next time, happy screwing!
About the Author
Tim is the head DIY expert at www.homeimprovementors.com the free site for tool home improvement tips.

Finishing your Basement Can be Very Rewarding by Mark Donovan

Finishing your Basement Can be Very Rewarding by Mark Donovan

Transforming your home's basement into a finished space can prove to be very rewarding. Frequently the additional living space is used for a variety of entertainment functions including: Recreation Rooms, Bars, Gyms, Billiard Rooms, Home Theatres and Family Rooms. In addition, Bedrooms and Bathrooms are also incorporated into the floor space. Typically the square foot cost of finishing a basement is significantly lower than other floors within the home.

Planning is critical before starting a Finished Basement project. From a financial standpoint, first determine how big your budget is and how you will finance the project. Will a mortgage be required or can you refinance or obtain a home equity loan?

From the project standpoint, carefully consider what you want to use the space for. As part of this consideration, consider ceiling heights, existing pipes, Oil Tanks, and Heating and Water systems. Also consider lighting. To make a Finished Basement cozy, warm and comfortable, the number and kinds of lights to install is key. In addition, consider natural lighting. Can additional windows be installed and will they be appropriate for the finished space?

Installing a Bathroom in a basement can be a challenge, particularly if a pump-up system is required. It is important you meet with a plumber before you start any work, as they will have many questions and requirements for your bathroom. Potentially the most onerous aspect of installing a Bathroom may be the removal of some of the cement flooring. This is a very dusty and messy job!

Also consider heating. Does your existing furnace have the capacity to support the additional space? If not, you will need to consider putting in a bigger system or creating a secondary heating system.

Finally, and probably the most important aspect to consider, is dealing with moisture. A finished basement will quickly loose its charm if water problems create mold and mildew. Basement floors and walls should be sealed and insulated to reduce moisture content in the basement. Even with these precautions, a dehumidifier may be required.

About the Author
Me_Donovan@comcast.net
www.homeadditionplus.com


Over the past 20+ years Mr. Donovan has been involved with building homes and home additions. Mr. Donovan's formal education & profession have been as an Electrical Engineer & Marketing Manager.

Emphasize Your Decor Style in Seven Easy Ways by Julie Dana

Emphasize Your Decor Style in Seven Easy Ways by Julie Dana

After searching decorating books, using trial and error decorating, and growing up a little bit, you have finally found the style of decorating that you really love. Your style could be Arts & Crafts, French Country, Asian, or Metro Hip. If you are still searching for your style or want a second opinion on what your general home style really is, try taking the fun style quiz on http:/www.thehomestylist.com/.

Now that you have identified a dcor style, the challenging part may now be to implement that style and make it substantial enough so others will notice.
There are seven simple elements that will really help you emphasize this great look.

1. Choose a focal point that will reflect your dcor style.
This signature piece is usually the most dominate item you see and sets the tone of the room. If this piece is not your specific style, the room will not look its best. An example could be a beautiful Queen Anne armoire for a Classic Traditional style or a large rustic log mantel for the Mountain Lodge look.

2. Use colors that are common to that specific style.
Different dcor styles are usually shown with a collection of colors that are prominent for that palette. Make sure your room has those colors. For example, French Country is well known for its pretty yellows and blues. Americana Style would not be the same without red, white and blue.

3. Collect in a theme that emphasizes that style.
Every ones needs a conversation piece or collection that demonstrates the owners personality and interests. A collection also doesnt need to be large just 3 to 5 objects. Ginger jars for the Asian Dcor or cute porcelain teapots to emphasize an English Garden style.

4. Frame an authentic object that is original to the country or era.
This simple task does not have to be expensive. Old Postcards from Italy for your Tuscany Villa Style or wine labels from France for a European Look will add authenticity and personal touch to the dcor.


5. Purchase a large coffee table book to demonstrate that dcor.
Large beautiful books can subtly emphasis the style you enjoy. The book does need to be a decor books but rather a topic that is related to the style. For example, a Vintage Advertisements for the Shabby Chic look, or Andy Warhol book for the Metro-Modern look.

6. Use plants or flowers that coordinate with the dcor.
The greenery can be real or artificial as long as they look healthy. Nothing spoils a designer-look like a dying plant. Use cactus for the Southwestern look or a great palm tree for the Tropical style.

7. Review all you accents and accessories to make sure they blend with your new found style. By reviewing each element individually to see if it blends (not necessary perfectly matches), you can make sure you have a well-coordinated look. Look for a geometric patterned pillow for a Modern look; search for fringed lampshades for an Old World style.

Remember decorating is a process. Searching for those perfect accessories to emphasize your style is part of the fun. These tips will help you add the style you want to the home you love.


About the Author
Julie Dana is a professional Interior Redesigner and Accredited Staging Professional. Her company, The Home Stylist, offers online decorating consultations, do-it-yourself decorating plans and real-estate staging.
Visit http:/www.thehomestylist.com/ to take a fun style quiz, vote on a color poll, and sign up for free decorating e-newsletter.