Layering roofing has been a way to save time and a little bit of money when you need to replace your roof. However, layering roofing can void shingle warrantees, add excessive weight to the structure of your house, and diminish the overall life of the roof.

Before considering layering roofing over an existing roof, check your local building codes. Many restrict the amount of times you can layer the roofing, so chances are if your roof already has more than one layer of roofing, you're ineligible.

If you only have a single layer of roofing currently, and your home is fairly new, structurally the home will probably withstand the extra weight.

While many consumers may think that paint removal requires a chemical stripper and hours of work, there are plenty of options that are kind to the environment and your lungs as well as guaranteed to save you time.

Of course, if you plan on repainting, use a low or no VOC paint to finish the job in the greenest way possible.


 

If you own an older home, chances are part of your plumbing is made from cast iron.

Cast iron pipe holds the unique distinction of being very brittle as well as very strong, making it difficult for homeowners to modify it. While cast iron pipe is seldom installed, it is often removed and replaced as it fails.

For this reason, knowing how to cut a cast iron pipe is essential if you intend to work on your house's plumbing.

 Image courtesy Plumbing Supply

While larger masonry projects are often reserved for the professional, smaller projects, such as replacing a few damaged bricks, can be tackled by the ambitious homeowner.

Just keep in mind that any project that involves a structural element or chimney flue should be completed by the professional mason.


Match Your Existing Bricks and Save Leftover Bricks for Future Replacement Needs
 
Before attempting to replace damaged brick, it is important to locate brick that will match the existing structure. If the area you are repairing is comparatively new bricks are often saved for repairs, but older structures may require that you call salvage yards to find appropriate replacements.

Anode rods are used to prevent corrosion in a hot water tank. An anode rod that no longer works could allow your hot water tank to rust. Conversely, by replacing the anode rod as needed you can extend the life of your hot water tank significantly as well as reduce the chance of needing to replace your entire hot water heater.


How Does an Anode Rod Work?

An anode rod works by reducing the chance of corrosion within the tank. Normally made of magnesium, an anode rod releases electrons as it corrodes which then attach to tank imperfections that might rust. For this reason an anode rod often determines the length of the warrantee of your hot water heater.

Fixing a broken kitchen sprayer hose is within the skill set of most homeowners. All that is needed is an adjustable wrench, some plumber's tape, and replacement parts for your particular kitchen sink sprayer.

Step-By-Step Instructions to Fix a Broken Kitchen Sprayer Hose

The fix required for your kitchen sink sprayer will depend on where the leak or problem lies. If the leak is occurring between the seams of the sprayer nozzle, a faulty gasket within the spray assembly could be to blame.

The value of whole house surge protectors is immeasurable.

Nearby lightning strikes, large equipment cycling on and off at nearby factories, downed power lines and even powering up or down your larger appliances in your own home are all sources of power surges.

I had a whole-house surge suppressor professionally installed in my home less than a year ago while the electrician was on-site preparing the wiring and breakers for my natural gas range to be installed.

I am convinced it was a very good investment. Here are a few reasons why...