http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com en-us http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com N/A allan@ebookresellerkit.com Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:16:18 CDT 20 http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2051/1/Do-it-yourself-window-treatments Window dressing options are aplenty for all DIY enthusiasts as there are many styles of curtains, shades, valances and other window treatments that can be created easily by homeowners, with little effort and minimal tailoring or crafting skills. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2050/1/Do-It-Yourself-Pest-Control If you are considering taking care of the pestilences of your home instead of calling in professional help here are a few tips that you can use to guide you on the way. Look for places that pests such as flying insects or rodents can enter your home from. This is called 'weatherizing' your home. Seal all these possible entry points to your home. Look for gaps that ate larger than 1 inch. These are usually at the bottom of doors and walls and where roofs overlap. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2049/1/Do-It-Yourself-Patio Patios enhance the beauty, comfort and value of a home. If one would like to build a patio there are a myriad of do-it-yourself kits available in the market. Most of them offer popular, visually pleasing home improvement products. DIY patio cover kits and patio room enclosure kits increase property value, add outdoor living space, and provide homeowners with an attractive, unique maintenance-free sanctuary from the blazing sun or pouring rain at the same time saving them thousands of dollars from paying the professionals to do the same job. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2048/1/Do-It-Yourself-Painting If you are planning a do-it -yourself painting venture you should prepare for it by putting together a painting kit. A usual painting kit includes patching paste, drop cloth, a putty knife, and plastic gloves, paint thinner, primer and a paint-can opener.  Added to this, other necessary items in a painting kit would be plenty of masking tape, assorted paintbrushes and a paint roller and roller cover. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2047/1/Do-It-Yourself-Landscaping There are a number of Do-it-yourself kits for the entire home landscaping projects you could possibly think of. These DIY kits, as they are called, combine natural beauty with strength and durability to give your DIY project that professional and long-lasting touch. They are easy to work with and provide homeowners with a huge range of DIY landscaping opportunities. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2046/1/Do-it-yourself-kitchen A kitchen simplifies your life and also adds appeal and value to your home. If you are planning to build your own kitchen then it is highly recommended that you read and remember a few of the tips that you will be reading about in this article. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2045/1/Do-It-Yourself-Granite Granite is igneous rock of visible crystalline formation and texture. It is stronger than sandstone, limestone, and marble and is correspondingly more difficult to quarry. It is an important building stone, the best grades being extremely resistant to weathering. It is composed of potash feldspar, oligoclase and quartz, with a small amount of mica and minor accessory minerals, such as zircon, apatite, magnetite, ilmenite, and sphene. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2044/1/Do-It-Yourself-TV There are many models of televisions in the market and with the invention of color television it has become even more attractive. With so few knowing so little about electronic gadgetry it is no wonder they can be fleeced by a technician who may make a home call to repair the set or have the set moved over to the workshop. It is good to have a little knowledge of the working of the television and try to rectify a small fault without having to call in the professional. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2041/1/Do-it-yourself-tile Those handy with basic tools and an enthusiasm for home improvement projects will definitely find the time and energy to take on a do it yourself tiling job. A well thought out tile design can add thematic flavor, color, charm and a distinctive look to the space it is used in and the satisfaction of sitting back and enjoying the brightness your own hands have crafted, is unparalleled by another other instant makeover measure. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2040/1/Do-it-yourself-termite-control Termite infestation can occur in the best-kept homes and be a cause of great concern for any homeowner. Most active termite infestations need chemical treatment but preventive measures like reducing conditions conducive to termite infestation can be undertaken by repairing moisture and ventilation problem. This helps to reduce infestations of some termite populations. Unfortunately, these measures do not provide control. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2039/1/Do-it-yourself-solar There are many manufacturers offering good quality and easy to build Solar Panel Kits, which come with all the necessary equipment for assembling the structure and putting it to use. These extend to Silicon Solar Cells and Scrap Solar Cells as well. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2038/1/Do-it-yourself-shelves Designing do it yourselves shelves can be a rewarding crafting experience when these are adjustable in nature and built to adapt to changing needs, thereby expanding the scope of their use and adding a smart planning option for possibilities of use. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2037/1/Do-it-yourself-roofing There are limitations to a DIY project for roofing for the average homeowner and the best thing to be done is to check out the attic area/s on a monthly basis to figure out any potential water problems or possibility of wind-damage that can be caused to the structural roof. Most reported cases for problem roofing deal with complaints of roof leaks, which generally occur around chimneys and other objects which go through the roof; eves and valleys are considered equally responsible for leaks. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2036/1/Do-it-yourself-replacement-windows A great way to reduce your home's energy costs and change its décor is to install replacement windows yourself but, keeping in mind when purchasing them, the material, (wood or vinyl), the type of window (double-hung or fixed form) and the requirements of the house. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2035/1/Do-it-yourself-repairs Some basic repairs that any homeowner can take care of are regular problems, which are commonly associated with all houses at some point in time or the other. You can do these repairs, with simple tools and a little know-how. Marc Rollinson Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1957/1/Do-It-Yourself-Pool The first step is to select the site for the pool and set the elevation so that the top of the pool will be 6 to 12feet above the existing ground at the highest part of your concrete apron. You may need to hire a sub-contractor to help you dig the hold and this may cost you anywhere between $275-$650 and take 7-10 hours, depending on the depth required. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1956/1/Do-It-Yourself-Plumbing With simple guidelines and basic tools, homeowners can unclog plumbing problems themselves and work on projects for repairing and replacing faucets, fixing and installing toilets, putting in water filters and working with copper and PVC pipe. Most of these tasks can be handled competently while bearing in mind some safety tips and lessons in the correct tool use. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1955/1/Do-It-Yourself-Gazebo A gazebo is a freestanding, open-sided structure with a solid roof and floor and traditional material for construction is wood but equally popular are those built of metal, stone or even reinforced concrete. Readily available gazebo kits make this little space a very real dream for all do it yourself hopefuls and homeowners can also commission an original design by ordering one through specialized computer aided designing offered by manufacturers. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1954/1/Do-It-Yourself-Garage There are easy and cost effective garage building plans readily available in the market today, which ensure minimum effort and time to construct everything; from a dry parking spot, to tool shed, to rehearsal space. Designing your dream garage is further aided by special software offering by garage building manufacturers who can help you design plans by modifying and customizing them on the computer, according to your taste and budget. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1953/1/Do-It-Yourself-Furniture It is extremely fulfilling and rewarding to handcraft your own furniture and whether you're building for saving money, utility or to create something for posterity, the furniture you construct will convey your own special style. This is not wishful thinking anymore for even those with just basic carpentry skills as there are numerous furniture kits and accessories available in the market. The choices range from assembling kits for a simple bar stool, Kitchen Island or Adirondack chair to home office furniture, bedroom suites, media centers and even antique reproductions! Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1952/1/Do-It-Yourself-Fireplace A fireplace affords a warm look to any house and most houses before the 1950's were equipped with at least one fireplace that was the center of all family activities and social life. As life comes full circle, so do décor trends and features and fireplaces too have sprung back into modern homes, to add a certain unique charm and elegant functionality- pre-fabricated ones that are easily available in the market are popular options for most people who have basic and practical skills for installing one. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1951/1/Do-It-Yourself-Concrete There are many low-pressure crack injection kits which come with simple instructions so the homeowner can repair cracks in poured basement walls or retaining walls, gaps between walls and the ceiling and around pipe penetrations. The homeowners can avail of these to repair cracks with professional results at a fraction of the cost. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1950/1/Do-It-Yourself-Closet The design and construction of custom made closets is becoming big business and companies specializing in the trade are coming up like mushrooms all over the country. This is primarily in response to the ever-increasing need of economically feasible storage alternatives that this industry offers. By and large the professionally installed systems are quite affordable as a result of the production-style, fabrication and installation techniques in use by many of the major companies. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1949/1/Do-It-Yourself-Carpet Installing a carpet is not an easy task for a novice, especially a DIY project and therefore, it is important to have adequate knowledge of the process before embarking on this assignment. Installing a carpet yourself involves the use of specialized tools and using some muscles. The main part is selecting the best carpet for your needs- the type of weave and material is reflective of price range, desired strength and durability. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1948/1/Do-It-Yourself-Carpet-Dye A carpet adds beauty and value to any home and it's proper maintenance through regular vacuuming and periodic cleaning can add to its life a good 15 to 20 years. The unfortunate part is that inadvertent stains and carpet spots can cause its lifespan to be shortened as well as stain removal providing only a temporary fix, at best. These may reappear after some time, so to avoid this frustration; many homeowners are keen on trying out carpet dyeing, which they can do themselves. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1947/1/Do-It-Yourself-Carpentry For all those that are serious about doing carpentry work the house, it is important to establish a workplace that is convenient, comfortable and well organized. For any do it yourself carpentry enthusiast, good storage for tools and materials is necessary so the carpentry headquarters can be a full-fledged shop, or an ordinary tool center. The workshop can be in a basement, garage, or even an attic- any room where the handyman need not worry about disrupting family activities while working. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1946/1/Do-It-Yourself-Cabinet A homeowner that is house-proud and skilled at hand crafting additions to enhance the interiors of his homestead cannot help considering a do it yourself cabinet making project. The easy availability and wide range of constructions materials, color and finishes for cabinets of all kinds, is another temptation that is hard for the handyman to resist. Even those with the most basic skills can construct a reasonably good one, by simply following instructions from guidebooks and pre-fabricated kits. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1945/1/Do-It-Yourself-Building There are many options for those wanting to take up a do it yourself building project and the latest versions of modern prefabs emerging globally are well designed and energy-efficient. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1944/1/Do-It-Yourself-Bathroom A do it yourself bathroom improvement can give a new look to this best loved privacy spot in any home and with a bit of forethought and research, value add-ons can be purchased wisely to fit in well with the scheme of things to spruce up this washing zone Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1943/1/Do-It-Yourself-Basement All homeowners with a basement will be familiar with the common problems that beset this multi-faceted room in any house. Those that have handyman skills and basic tools can benefit from readily available guidebooks and household hints online and at libraries to solve this basement related issues on their own, with a little ingenuity and the proper materials. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1942/1/Do-It-Yourself-Awning An awning is a covering that covers the outside wall of a building and is usually made of canvas or acrylic cloth that has been stretched over steel, iron, aluminium and sometimes wood.  If you are a homeowner with a business to run, the strategic use and design of a smart awning could be used to advertise your business. On the other hand, if you are just looking out for an aesthetic appeal to your patio and want to do it yourself, as an economical measure or creative satisfaction, there are kits available in rainbow colours and styles to meet a wide range of budget and material choices. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1941/1/Do-It-Yourself-Air-Conditioning For tackling the easier air conditioning problems, there is help at hand for homeowners, through easy access of handy guides and manuals from the Internet and local library, but the more serious air conditioner problems need to be attended to by certified technicians. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/1940/1/Countertops-Do-It-Yourself Counter tops are very versatile surfaces that can be used in many different ways. They are a very important part of any kitchen, bathroom or working area and those who have a love for doing things themselves, will find this project too good to resist. The satisfaction that comes from seeing your own handiwork before you and being able to use it for one or many purposes is unparalleled. Marc Rollinson Sat, 17 Jun 2006 00:00:00 CDT