Shed ramps are necessary for almost all sheds that have a wooden floor. It is very common for a shed floor to be six or more inches above the outdoor grade level. Shed ramps can be made from wood or metal. Wood ramps are fairly easy to construct, but they must not be too steep.
"I started to test different products and discovered quickly they all did a great job of keeping leaves out of my gutters. But in the spring, or after two spring seasons, all of the gutter cover products I tested FAILED." Gutter covers are a huge business. They really came of age back in the 1990s. Related Read More »
Question #1: Tim, the window frame on the back of my house is deteriorating. If you look at the three photos I sent, you’ll see there’s no gutter over this window, but rain diverters up in the shingles. What’s the best way to repair the damage and prevent it in the future? Andy, Westerville, OH Read More »
Low-Voltage Deck Lights Question #1: Tim, I’m going to tackle rebuilding my deck soon and have seen lots of photos of low-voltage deck lighting. I’m afraid of electricity and don’t feel I have the skills to do this part of the project. Can you impart any wisdom that will instill the courage in me to Read More »
Here's a collection of photos showing how I connected up my Trex low-voltage lighting. Trex Low Voltage Lighting Is Easy to Connect First, allow me to show you what the lights look like when they're on: Check the June 3, 2016 AsktheBuilder Newsletter for information on how the deck looked prior to the remodeling!!
Ask the Builder Podcast 8 Highlights: Karen's wondering if she needs a new paver or blacktop drive. Tim has a better idea. Brian needs some tips about painting the inside of a concrete block building Lauren wonders about attic framing lumber, a slanted floor and some cracks in her home Tim shares a funny Read More »
Rock Retaining Walls Question #1: Tim, I read a column on your website about rock retaining walls. I’m having a hard time believing you can build a lasting wall and not use mortar between the stones. I’d love to just build a wall and not have to use mortar. What’s the real secret? Karen - Read More »
Building a rock retaining wall can add a lot of your property. But a rock retaining wall is a major project. Retaining wall rocks are heavy and the rock retaining wall design must be able to withstand a tremendous amount of pressure.
Granite Retaining Walls Built Right Last for 1,000 Years or More Granite retaining walls come in all shapes, sizes, and heights. They can be built with or without mortar. Granite is best because it's: strong resists erosion easy to shape looks good Granite may not be available where you live, but it's very common here Read More »
Ask the Builder Podcast 7 Highlights: Karen from Texas has some cantankerous soil around her house that's causing cracks Corey's got a stunning IPE hardwood deck - what's the best way to clean and seal it? Tom has a pergola over his rear deck. The idiot who built it made a big mistake Read More »