Skills

Master your craft and perfect your skills with these professional tips, techniques and industry insights.

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      I Tried the Fiskars Deluxe Stand-Up Weeder and It Didn’t Break the Bank or My Back

      Check out our Fiskars Weed-Puller review for all the dirt (hehe) you need to know about this weed annihilator.


      How to Thin Latex Paint for Spraying, Brushing, and Rolling

      Learn how to thin latex paint for any application method and project.


      Is Your Water Heater’s TPR Valve Leaking? Here’s What to Do

      The TPR valve is a critical safety feature on water heater tanks. A leak could indicate high pressure or a...


      How To Use a Level Over Long Distances

      These tools and techniques will make it easier to level over medium and long distances with ease.

      Black+Decker Hedge Trimmer Review: We Tested This High Performance Cordless Tool

      Black and Decker's 40V cordless hedge trimmer proves low-frills and convenience are king.


      6 Best Electric Pruning Shears, Tested and Reviewed

      We tested six electric pruning shears to help buyers like you decide what is worth your investment (and what isn't).


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      Save Money On Your Utility Bills By Filling Gaps Around Electrical Outlets

      Air leaks around electrical devices and register openings on exterior walls can create significant drafts, increasing heating and cooling costs....


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      Can You Get Rid of Weeds with Weed Burners?

      Discover the efficiency and eco-friendliness of weed torches for garden maintenance and weed control.

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      Toilet Won’t Flush? These Are the Most Likely Reasons and How to Fix It

      The toilet is arguably the most important fixture in any home. Failure to flush can be a nuisance, but fortunately,...


      How To Clean Patio Pavers Without a Pressure Washer

      Are your patio pavers looking dull and dirty? Learn how to clean them safely by hand, with tips from our...


      Why You Should Be Using Oil in Your Floor Drains

      Keep water seal in your floor drains from drying out with a thin layer of cooking oil. It'll keep foul...


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      How Does a Water Softener Work? All Your Questions, Answered

      Many households throughout the country have hard water. If yours is one of them, let our experts explain why and...


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      Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down a Garbage Disposal?

      Wondering if you can put coffee grounds down your garbage disposal? We've got you covered.


      How to Fix Spalling Concrete in Your Driveway

      Don't replace your driveway, patio or basement floor—just resurface it.


      Can You Put Polyurethane Over Paint? Everything to Know

      We'll break down the FAQs about putting polyurethane over paint.


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      What Is CPVC Pipe? Here’s Everything to Know

      Learn about this plumbing pipe that's easy to cut and join, requires no special tools and no risky soldering.


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      Is Polyurethane Waterproof?

      We'll break down whether or not different kinds of polyurethane are waterproof for you.

      I’m a Professional Landscaper, and I Tried Husqvarna’s Backpack Leaf Blower

      The Husqvarna is one of the best backpack leaf blowers for homeowners and has surprising power. I tested it in...


      Oneida Dust Deputy Review: Tested by a Professional Woodworker

      Tired of costly shop vac filters and reduced suction power? I tested the Oneida Dust Deputy—here's why you need one...


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      How Do You Stop Condensation on Water Pipes?

      Whether you call it pipe condensation or sweating pipes, it's a bigger problem than you might think. Here our experts...


      9 Plunge Pool Ideas

      These beautiful plunge pool ideas give you the benefits of a swimming pool, without the maintenance or space requirements.


      How To Paint Stucco

      Stucco home in need of a refresh? Paint it! We've got the step-by-step, and all the pro tips, right here.


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      How to Use a Garbage Disposal Reset Button

      Learn how the red reset button on garbage disposals helps prevent overloading and overheating when your unit malfunctions.

      What Are Water Hammer Arrestors?

      Silence your noisy, rattling water pipes by installing a water hammer arrestor.


      Here’s an Easy Way to Match Caulk and Grout Colors

      You'll need sanded caulk and a makeshift applicator


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      Ditch Plastic Landscape Edging for Natural Mulch

      Hate the look of plastic landscape edging? For a more informal, natural border around planted areas, try trench edging...

      The Best Cordless Leaf Blowers, Tested By a Lawn Expert

      After testing dozens of cordless leaf blowers, we've found the perfect combination of power, usability and affordability.


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      How To Use a Broadcast Spreader the Right Way

      A broadcast spreader is an essential tool for taking care of your lawn.


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      GFCI vs. AFCI Outlets: What’s the Difference?

      Confused about these important safety devices? An electrician explains the difference.