Check Local Availability

Logo_120x90
check your local store, for in store pickup
Share

DIY Home Improvement

DIY on EBAY

Fine Hand Saws-Here
Home Security Information - Here **Catering=Argentine and Italian Cuisine**-Here

Archive for the ‘DIY plumbing’ Category

Copper/Galvenize metal electrolosis

Friday, December 30, 2011
posted by Craig

Electrolysis is an often misused term when applied to copper plumbing tubing. True electrolysis, or electrolytic corrosion, as it is more properly designated with regard to piping, is caused by an imposed (external) stray DC current and  happens when 2 or more different metals touch IE., copper and steel plumbing components. In many cases, it is also thought that grounding of a building’s electrical system to the copper piping can cause this phenomenon, but there is no statistical data to support this, nor is it recommended that the piping system be used as the main electrical ground for a building or dwelling.

Usually, what people are really referring to when they say electrolysis is galvanic or dissimilar metal corrosion. Galvanic corrosion is caused by self-induced current created by electrical potential of two dissimilar metals in contact with an electrolyte. It can occur when two dissimilar metals (such as copper tube and steel pipe) are connected in the presence of an electrolyte.

Stainless steel , Brass and Copper, all common metal piping materials and how they react to each other, it is rarely the copper tube that fails because of galvanic corrosion. Black steel and Galvanized steel when connected to the other metals above , will start an eating away by corrosion until sooner than later a leak in your plumbing pipes will occur. Do it right the first time!

Plumbing/Piping Repair

Monday, November 21, 2011
posted by Craig

How to fix a leaky pipe has never been easier since the Shark bite fittings hit the piping repair industry. Every homeowner in the world can now address their plumbing pipes as if they just got a plumbers license from the state or country they own their own house or rental property in. It’s no secret or magic pill to be ingested, truth be known these relatively new and inexpensive little gems are just like snapping Lego’s together, just as you did when you were a kid.

The best thing about Shark bite fittings, is they will help you stop any leak in any pipe,  in any area of the world. Whether it be Pex tubing or copper tubing or even PVC plumbing with 2 quick cuts and 2 even quicker snaps together , can stop any plumbing leak anywhere.

Pex tubing is not used in the west like copper tubing because of the warmer climates, but these non sweat , no plumbing experience needed,  DIY tools are applied, all things are possible. It does not matter where in the wall the water line repair is necessary , It won’t make a difference if they are leaking in  the concrete or under the slab,  plumbing pipes can be fixed,  Sharkbite plumbing fittings can stop the steady drip drip drip of water wasting usage and or water damage that can be avoided.

The water heater needs a supply water line to heat and distribute hot water to any bathroom or kitchen in every home across the world. Many of these water supply lines are buried and not seen until, there is a sign of water damage. These water supply pipes are easily repairable. Once You have the knowledge and lose the fear of believing “I Can’t” ….. until you have done your homework , the fear exits faster than How can I Repair a plumbing pipe! As the thought turns to “I easily CAN!” Have a fantastic and healthy Thanksgiving Day !!

Mold remediation [exaust fan]

Wednesday, November 16, 2011
posted by Craig

Action is needed to remedy anything. The everyday bath fan has many upsides, when the ductwork is done correctly all else will follow. Mold has proved to be unhealthful for a lot of us, but to avoid mold and mildew in our very frequently used bathrooms has never been easier. Any diy’er has the ability to execute change, and we here at My-DIY.net aim to give back a solution that is inexpensive and simple.

In the image here it shows the creative way to use ductwork in a bathroom shower exhaust fan. With the ceiling 2×4 framing disallowing a direct air flow, the 90 degree duct gets us up and out in the shortest distance without constricting or pinching the ducting. Home Depot stocks this exhaust fan elbow ducting in house and it is extremely easy to DIY or Do It Yourself, when we have all the right information to avoid mold and mildew in our families bathrooms for cleaner healthier living.

When searching through the exhaust fans available on line, it is noted here that the volume of air exchanged and the Ultra-quiet motors operate at sone level reading per noisiness factor. But most importantly, moving the wet air up and out as your hot and steamy shower continues. But, in order for a bath fan to be able to perform it’s duties it must draw air from someplace?? Be certain there is a significant gap underneath the bathroom door 3/4″ or so ,  and or crack open the bathroom window just enough to aide in the CFM also known as the cubic feet of air per minute. Good luck and DIY , Today!


DIY [how to] Install Tile

Sunday, October 23, 2011
posted by Craig

Often times we are working within a budget on remodeling projects or home repairs.
DIY tile reglazing became the answer after a bit of t crossing and i dotting. So in order to get the best bang for our buck, the shower that needed a leak fixed in the wall will get partially rehabbed and then reglazed.
The first task @ hand was to exposed the dripping shower valve and replace with a new single handle mix version by Delta, then raising the shower head higher for less bending while bathing.

But, before we could start setting tile, we had to install a shower valve, lathe the shower wall and scratch and brown coat the type-s mortar base per exact waterproofing and tile adhesion.

The bathroom tile my clients choose for this was bought @ Home Depot and came in 8×8 boxes of 32 count. Smooth faced ceramic bathroom tile that matched the existing 1/8 spaced tile pattern. Thin set tile adhesive with literally no adjustments , because of our exact substrate float, made this bathroom tile remodel project very simple.Any avid DIY’er can do any home improvement project with the right tools and steps. A comprehensive diy tiling job that can be thoroughly enjoyed for many years too come!


How To DIY Slab Leak

Wednesday, December 22, 2010
posted by Craig

In determining a leak in your system, the only absolute sure way for a decision to be made here, is to go straight to the source. The water service meter to your house monitors every drop that passes the gauge. When pouring a concrete slab foundation, the plumbing lines are trenched and placed in the ground prior to the concrete pour, as time progresses there is often several things that may have to occur or end up going wrong.
A visual inspection of the outside of your residence may aide in any abnormalities IE., wet areas near the exterior perimeters, higher than usual water bills, interior mold stench, warm places beneath the flooring etc. If you are experiencing any of these common issues, then before calling a plumbing contractor and getting invoiced for the trip, a final DIY leak test can be performed.
Turn off any and all appliances, dishwasher or washing machine. Check any and all the sinks faucets to be sure they are 100% in the off position. If any toilet is running because of needed repairs, then shut off their angle stop or (supply line) and if you are not alone then tell everyone else to please wait on flushing any toilets or washing any hands.

It is now time to find your water meter, typically on or near the street or curb. In the front of the property and in the ground. If you are absolutely positive that all fixtures/machines and spigots are off then the meter should not be moving/counting or digitally calculating the city or counties water passing through it. Chances are that this has assisted you in DIY leak detection.

Restoring the Cottage to Its Former Glory

Tuesday, August 24, 2010
posted by admin

plumbingUntil about a year ago, my family cottage was falling into disrepair. My grandfather built the place with his bare hands, and watching the place crumbling at the foundations due to neglect was heart-wrenching. In order to correct the problem, my son and I took matters into our own hands. We packed some tools into the old pickup truck and drove the two hours and change to the cottage. Having taken a few days off work, we both had time to make some initial home improvements.

It wasn’t until several hours into the task that I realized I was getting dehydrated. Walking into the kitchen and turning on the tap, I found – much to my dismay – that a foul smelling, discolored liquid began coursing into the sink. This substance didn’t resemble any water I’d ever seen or tasted in the past, and I knew it was time to pull out my special plumbing tools and go to work. It seemed like for every two steps forward we took one back, but after a couple of weeks we finally got the job done.

Bath Tub Fixtures (WHY)

Saturday, July 3, 2010
posted by Craig

After a long day, one of the things you would be craving for is a warm long bath. A great bath tub can become your best friend at the end of the day. Many people upgrade their tubs with bath tub faucets to make it more delightful to use. Increasing the value of their largest investment, Real Estate. Nowadays, bath tub faucets come in all shapes and sizes so you have countless of options to choose from.

One of the newest things in this industry today is the touch faucet innovation. Some of the touch faucet brands in the market today are Delta and Kohler. The Delta 980T – SSSD is equipped with the latest Touch 20 technology and is one of the leading products in the market. The price of Delta touch sensor faucet in Amazon is $348. Listed at the original price of $585, you would be able to save around $40 when you purchase it in Amazon. It has a Pilar design which was inspired by technology and nature combined. It also features a Magnatite spray head to secure tight fit. Additionally, this product also boasts its Diamond Seal technology which utilizes an electronic valve along with a diamond coating, making it more durable and guaranteed to last a lifetime.

If you want a Zen-styled bathroom, a faucet Asian waterfall nickel sink would be the best way to go. You can find one in Amazon, like the model SV15, which is an oriental inspired bathroom sink and faucet that sells for $425. This product has marble sink which is handcrafted and a brushed nickel faucet finish. The sink is about 1″ thick and colored black and grey. The product includes a pop up drain and a limited lifetime warranty. Bath tub faucets with an Asian design will also go along well with a Zen inspired bathroom. Vintage themes are also popular. You can add vintage glass fixtures for bathroom or look for modern floor mount bathtub faucets if you want a contemporary, modern look.

For a modern styled bathroom, most people choose ceiling mount tub fillers or custom ceiling tub faucets with a contemporary sleek modern finish. This is one of the most unique kinds of bath tub faucets ever thought of. A bath faucet from ceiling mounts is a great statement of modern style. You can find the Kohler K922 CP ceiling mount bath filler at Amazon for $323.86. The product has a solid brass construction and a polished chrome finish for more durability and resistance to tarnish and corrosion. It has a 2 centimeter orifice and weighs about 5.6 lbs. This product can be used for dual purposes. Aside from filling your tub, it can also be used as a shower. The minimalist style is also the modern style so if you want this kind of bathroom, don’t overdo decorations and fixtures. Look for fittings that possess simplicity and clean finishes.

Bath tub faucets, no matter what design, should complement and match the overall look of your bathroom. Before buying a faucet that interests you, think about the kind of look you want to achieve first. Compare the different styles that you want and canvas on some of the things you need to buy. Remember, you don’t have to spend too much and hire a contractor or decorator for this. Just have in mind the right idea, and the great products to go along with it.

plumbingThe bathroom is an integral part of the house. Careful attention must be given to the plumbing layout and the needed fixtures. Unlike other rooms in a house, the bathroom must be functional. Faulty plumbing may lead to leaky pipes or a clogged drain—and nobody wants to spend hours performing do it yourself plumbing repair. This is one room that cannot rely on decor and colors alone. The fixtures, including the sink, faucet accessories, showerhead, and bath tub, must perform efficiently.

A bathroom must be kept squeaky clean. This can be done by regularly cleaning the tiles with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. The toilet must also be scrubbed clean regularly with an efficient antibacterial toilet cleaner to avoid any water stain or bacteria buildup.

Is Drop in Home Sales Good News?

Wednesday, June 23, 2010
posted by Craig

Is Drop in Home Sales Good News? Only if you want to thrive!

“For all of you out there who accuse me of perpetual bearishness, here’s a twist: What if the drop in existing home sales in May is a good thing? Try to follow me on this: Everyone expected home sales to surge in May because this Realtor’s survey is based on closings in May from contracts signed in March and April. The May and June numbers should reflect the surge from the now-expired home buyer tax credit. Well today’s report showed a drop of 2.2 percent in existing home sales, leading us to believe that this last government stimulus really didn’t do the trick. So what if it didn’t? Last fall the tax credit really juiced the market, pulling demand forward, so that we saw a huge drop-off in the months following what we thought was the end of the credit, which was then of course extended and expanded.

So now we’re not seeing the same juice, but the numbers aren’t terrible either. Perhaps there was no big rush, so perhaps there will be no big drop-off. Here’s what we do know: (a) First-time homebuyers accounted for 46% of sales in May (49% in April) (b) Investors accounted for 14% of sales in May (15% in April) (c) All cash accounted for 25% of sales in May (26% in April). So first time buyers actually fell in numbers, but investors and all cash (which are often investors) remained pretty steady. Investors, at least for distressed properties, are what we need right now to soak up all the excess inventory. Don’t get me wrong, I’m pretty certain we’re going to see a drop-off in sales. A lot of sellers probably got caught up in the idea that the stimulus would create lasting recovery, and so decided to jump in. Tomorrow we get the report on sales of new construction in May. That report is based on contracts signed in May, not closings, so it will give us an idea of just how ba
d the post credit hangover will be.”

Commercial Real Estate

Tuesday, May 18, 2010
posted by Craig

Commercial Market Still Strugglingcommercial plumbing valves

While the commercial real estate market may not have fully recovered, National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun identified some developing, positive trends in the market that could eventually lead to recovery at the “Economics Issues and Commercial Business Trends Forum.”  Yun said jobs only began increasing a couple of months ago and are still below peak. The commercial market has seen a few improving trends in recent months. The market is experiencing an increase in transactions due to more distressed properties available needing various levels of plumbing repairs IE., and prices are beginning to stabilize. Yun believes within the next year more lending will slowly become accessible to commercial property owners.

Two commercial sectors showing the most promise are manufacturing and multifamily. Manufacturing activity and employment have risen recently and because household formation is also rising, the multifamily sector will likely fare the best during this economy. Despite some of these promising trends, the commercial market is still experiencing high vacancy rates and rent concessions. “All real estate is local, but I expect to see vacancy rates bottoming out and rent rising by next year,” said Yun.  He also warned against some of the possible risks commercial practitioners may experience in the future such as high interest rates and inflation, as well as increased taxes for commercial real estate investors. During the session, Yun was joined by two leading economic experts, Diane Swonk, Mesirow Financial; and Brendan Reilly, Commercial Mortgage Securities Association. The panelists agreed that an improving economy and job creation continue to be the two main factors when it comes to restoring the commercial real estate market.