To Grout or Not to Grout: An Argument for a Granite Tile Countertop

This article is for those of you questioning the choice of allowing grout in a kitchen (or any!) countertop. This is the subject of many arguments online often ending with torches and pitchforks. Before...

Paint a Room? I Would Rather Replace a Toilet

If you have been reading this blog during the past few months you may have had the following questions briefly cross your mind: Doesn’t the name of this blog use the word “paint”? Why...

Learn a New Skill: Read a Book (It’s Not Heart Surgery)

Read a book. It sounds too easy. Probably because oftentimes it is difficult to understand directions even with pictures. How many times have you struggled with directions on how to assemble a simple piece...

Earplugs: Which are Best for Hammering…and Sleeping

Ear protection is a must when working with power tools on projects. Which is why I invite my husband to wear earplugs when I tell him I’d still like to hold normal level decibel...

Learn a New Skill: Find a Mentor in the Business

Is there someone in a skilled trade you know who you look to as an expert? Or perhaps there are several people who collectively may help you learn a new skill? How many times...

Just Needs Paint house original MLS listing photo

Just Needs Paint House: Update #1

The original series of listings for the Just Needs Paint house were so entertaining they are too good not to share. Keep in mind this was a foreclosure. The bank was trying to sell...

What is Wrong with this Bathroom?

Hey! This place looks OK. It is clean, white and bright! Of course, it could use an update. I’m not much into lacy wallpaper, wood linoleum flooring, small tile countertop, or a wood bathroom...

Learn a New Skill: Help a Friend

Free labor! It sounds like a gimmick. Perhaps your friends may question your sanity for volunteering. But asking to help assist someone else’s DIY remodel is a great way to learn a new skill....

The Importance of Reading the Owner’s Manual

The following is a true story. If you take two ideas away from this post, they should be this: read the owner’s manual AND DO NOT DO WHAT I EXPLAIN BELOW. I have a...