Author: Thomas Avery

When I built my first deck, I thought the hard part was over, until I realized I needed stairs. That’s when I learned about box steps. They’re simple, sturdy, and don’t need tricky stringer cuts, which makes them perfect for DIYers like you and me. If you’re adding stairs to a low- or mid-height deck, box steps are one of the easiest ways to create safe, visually appealing access. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: what box steps are, how to plan and measure them, the tools and materials you’ll need, and a full step-by-step tutorial. If you…

Whatever the reason may be, whether it be a new home, a new system on an older building, or a commercial property makeover, selecting heating systems has to be considered carefully in assessing your area, your lifestyle, and the objectives of the future. This guide will take you through the factors to take into consideration so as to make a well-informed decision that will balance out performance, efficiency, and cost. Assess Your Property’s Heating Needs It is good to check your property before choosing the right heating and cooling services. Square footage, climate quality, insulation, the number of people to…

Deep house cleaning isn’t just about straightening up or wiping down visible surfaces; it’s a much more detailed and thorough process. I like to think of it as the kind of cleaning that reaches the areas most people tend to skip during a weekly routine. It goes beyond vacuuming and dusting to include scrubbing grout, cleaning inside appliances, and wiping down baseboards, vents, and ceiling fans. Over time, dirt, grease, and allergens build up in places that aren’t always obvious. A deep clean helps remove that buildup and leaves every part of the home feeling refreshed. In this blog, I’ll…

Want to make your plain walls stand out? Box trims are the perfect solution. They’re affordable, stylish, and instantly add architectural beauty to any room. Its an easy DIY project, where someone like me can also install it. With the proper guidance, you can achieve excellent results. In this guide, you’ll learn precisely what box trims are and how they can improve your space. I’ll walk you through all the necessary tools and materials, as well as the step-by-step installation process. You’ll also get design tips to make your walls look professional. I’ll share common mistakes to avoid so you…

Cladding can give your house a fresh new look and help protect it from the weather. However, before starting, I wanted to know the actual cost. Turns out, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Prices can vary significantly depending on the material, the size of the house, and the level of work involved. Some options are budget-friendly, while others may be more expensive but last longer. I found it helpful to break things down by type, such as vinyl, wood, and fiber cement, and examine the cost per square foot. Labor and preparation work also play a significant role in the final…

Outdoor spaces tell a story, and your deck is a key chapter. Maybe you’re tired of its current color or want to give it a new look that matches your home’s style. Composite decking is renowned for its toughness and low-maintenance properties, but many homeowners wonder: Can this material be painted or stained? Good news, you’re in the right place! My guide will walk you through everything you need to know about updating your composite deck. I’ll cover: Whether painting is possible Staining techniques Potential challenges Step-by-step advice By the end of this article, you’ll have clear, practical information to…

Nothing ruins a nice evening outside like pesky mosquitoes. I’ve tried sprays and zappers, but making my own citronella candles was the easiest fix. They smell great, look nice, and actually help keep bugs away. The best part? They’re super easy to make at home. You don’t need fancy tools or a lot of time. Just a few simple supplies and you’re good to go. I like making a bunch at once so I can use them all summer. They also make great gifts for friends and family. In this guide, I’ll show you step-by-step how to make DIY citronella…

Framing a deck is one of the most important, and honestly, most satisfying parts of the entire build. It’s the structural backbone that supports everything, so getting it right matters. I remember how overwhelming it felt the first time I picked up a post-hole digger, but with the right guidance, it quickly became manageable. If you’re building a ground-level platform or something multi-level and complex, framing is where the magic starts. In this post, I’ll walk you through all the essential steps, from measuring and digging post holes to setting beams, leveling joists, and squaring everything up. Each part has…

Cleaning your carpet shouldn’t cost a fortune or fill your home with harsh chemicals. When I first tried homemade solutions in my carpet cleaner, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was amazed by the fresh, clean results and how much money I saved. If you have a carpet cleaning machine and want a safer, more budget-friendly option than store-bought formulas, you’re in the right place. I’ve tested several recipes and learned what really works. In this guide, I’ll share simple, effective homemade carpet cleaning solutions, helpful ingredient tips, and machine-safe techniques. With items you likely already have at…

Moving out of an apartment isn’t just about packing; it also means cleaning if you want your security deposit back. I know how easy it is to miss things when you’re in a rush. However, landlords scrutinize closely during the final walk-through, and even minor messes can be costly. That’s why I put together this simple checklist to help you clean step by step. It covers everything from wiping kitchen appliances to scrubbing the bathroom and checking easy-to-miss spots. I’ll also share tips to help you stay focused and avoid common mistakes. I’ve been through this process myself, and having…