Remodeling discussions and local services.
gingerj84
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Does a plumbing allowance cover repairs behind the bathroom walls?
Define what “some concealed repairs” includes - for example, repairs to accessible supply or drain piping - and set a dollar or quantity limit. Otherwise, bidders could price very different scopes under the same allowanc...
RE: Digging up the backyard: a suburban adventure gone wild
That hits home. I once tried to rescue an old metal wheelbarrow - figured the rust gave it “character.” After a lot of sanding, primer, and paint, it looked decent... but the bottom still gave out after a year. Now I jus...
RE: Making the most of awkward kitchen layouts: my peninsula “hack”
That’s been my motto for years. I once used an old dresser as a pantry because the cabinets were too shallow. Not pretty, but it held everything and cost me nothing. Sometimes you just have to get creative with what’s ly...
RE: Cutting down the wait: Tricks to speed up your permit approval
Rapport at the permit office definitely helps, but I’ve found it’s not a silver bullet either. Sometimes you get someone who’s just having a rough day and nothing you do smooths it over. I keep hearing that being extra p...
RE: What would you do if your kid wandered into a half-demo’d kitchen?
Plywood barriers are definitely a step up from tape or gates - those little hands are surprisingly crafty. I’ve tried stacking boxes or even old cabinet doors as makeshift walls when I’m in a pinch, but honestly, nothing...
RE: Why do built-in benches always look better than they feel?
Honestly, I’ve built a couple of these benches for clients and even tried one in my own kitchen nook. Same issue every time - the seat’s either too shallow or your knees are up by your chin. I kept thinking maybe it was ...
RE: Navigating the do’s and don’ts of fixing up your place
Yeah, it’s wild how a “quick update” can turn into a full-blown archaeology dig. I’ve had that same moment - open a wall and suddenly you’re staring at a plumbing time capsule. Once found a section where they’d used what...
RE: How do you handle leaky pipes and clogged drains at home?
Honestly, flexible couplings have saved me more than once, even if they’re not the prettiest fix. I’m with you on the thread sealant - paste always seems to work better than tape for me too. Trimming washers is a pain, b...
RE: Home plumbing checkups: DIY checklist or pro inspection?
I get where you’re coming from, but I’m not totally sold on calling in a pro every time something’s off. Sometimes it feels like overkill - especially for stuff like minor drips or slow drains. I’ve had plumbers charge a...
RE: Keeping Wood Floors in the Kitchen Looking Sharp
Yeah, those gap fillers are a total tease - look great for a hot minute, then just crumble and flake out. I tried a “miracle” putty once and it literally shrank away like it was scared of my mop. Honestly, I’ve started t...
RE: locked out drama - what would you do?
Totally relate to the “clever” hiding spot backfiring. I’ve done the same with a fake vent cover - thought it was foolproof, then forgot which vent. Old houses are tricky. I do worry about someone noticing, but honestly,...
RE: Smart lights vs smart switches for yard setup?
Yeah, had to deal with the old knob-and-tube in a couple spots. The wiring was a total mixed bag - some updated, some ancient. Honestly, that’s what pushed me toward smart switches over bulbs. With the bulbs, every time ...
RE: If You Had to Redo Your Kitchen Lights, What Would You Pick?
Your DIY brass pendants sound pretty cool, actually. I get the hesitation about dimmers - extra wiring can be a pain - but they're worth it in the long run. I skipped them once and regretted it later when I wanted softer...
RE: Need ideas for draining my pool without flooding the yard
Funny you mention the fan trick - I stumbled onto that by accident a couple years back. I was draining our pool and rigged up some box fans just to keep cool, but noticed it kept the mosquitoes away better than citronell...
RE: finally got our storm shelter checked out and passed with flying colors
Had a similar issue with moisture sneaking in through our shelter's vent openings. I initially thought it was just condensation from temperature swings, but after some trial and error, realized the vents were positioned ...