The Historic District

I have been remodeling a ca. 1950 house that has the gypsum lath with plaster. The thickness of the plaster varies quite a bit so it is not the equivalent of a modern skim coat over blue board. I gutted a bathroom and kitchen. Water had ruined the plaster and backing board behind the tub, but everyt...

I think you'll find the actual repointing fairly easy. After you've cleaned out the joints (try to scrape out any loose mortar), mix a small batch of mortar, pull up a little on a trowel, and push the mortar off of the trowel with a long narrow pointing trowel (or make your own by modifying a cheap ...

I quit watching a long time ago. Every time I happen upon it I'll watch for a few minutes then remember why I quit. Even tried the magazine for a year 'cause it was only $10. I'd leaf through it, find nothing of interest, and toss it in the recycling bin. A shame, as the show really was enjoyable an...

I use the powdered setting-type joint compound for taping and base coats and for patches I want to put all the coats on quickly. I use the bucket stuff for top coats. I have found that older powdered compound sets up way too quickly, so I throw away old bags and buy new every time I start a project....

I got a quote from a local refinisher but it was more than I wanted to spend. They spray instead of roller/brush so I think that's why they get a much better looking finish. I did remove the drain outlet (not easy!) but I didn't do any repairs. BTW, the smell may drive you from the house for a day o...

I did a bathtub with one of the kits. It was very difficult to get a decent result, but part of that was due to the tub being pink (hard to completely cover) and access to the tub (it was in an alcove, so only could get to from one side). I got drips that I had to sand out with very fine wet/dry san...

I remodeled our kitchen last year for less than $6,000, exclusive of appliances, so yes it can be done. It is about the same size as yours. All labor by me except for countertops. Took it down to studs and joists, new insulation, all new wiring and subpanel, LED lighting, granite tops, Home Depot ca...

After reading your posts, I have to ask: is this third floor room a legal bedroom? Does the window qualify as a means of egress? You could have problems down the road if it isn't, at least here in US. That being said, a good source for energy questions is Green Building Advisor (m) where you can ask...

I have an appointment set up with a good (and expensive) structural repair company. This might be one time I don't go the DIY route, unless the price is outrageous. Read your house blog with interest. Determining the true age of a house can involve a little detective work. Mine is listed as 1852 on ...

I wanted to change insurance from a "farm" policy to a homeowner's policy to save money. My current insurer wasn't interested. The independent agent I called was very nice, came to visit, took photos and subsequently said he didn't have an insurance company he could use as I had peeling pa...