Home Improvement and Repairs Spring/Summer 2023

Last-Deck

THE LAST DECK YOU WILL EVER NEED

last-deck requires no staining or sealing, just mild soap and water for cleaning. No warping, splitting, cracking, rotting, molding, lightweight and fire-resistant. LastDeck is available in a multitude of options allowing you to design your own luxury outdoor space.

Manufactured in the Midwest of all American made structuralgrade aluminum – the same as an aircraft; Last-Deck is built with high quality standards from our family to yours.

last-deck 300 series

The 300 series is a patented, watertight product that has the ability to be replaced without having to start at one end. Should you receive damage at the mid-way point of your deck, simply pop up 2 joiner strips, replace the bad plank, snap the joiner strips back down, and your repairs are finished! www.lastdeck.com

300 series easily pop up and snap back down!

In this issue of Home Improvement and Repairs, you’ll find a new section called Project Profile that features one of the coolest professional basement remodels I’ve seen. As far as entertainment spaces for sports fans, The Ultimate Sports Basement (page 18) will be hard to top, and this project was completed in our magazine’s home state of Alabama.

I came across it when reviewing winners of the 2023 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards (AREA). To qualify for entry in this year’s competition, projects had to be completed in Alabama between June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2022. A panel of judges made up of builders and remodelers from around the state reviewed and scored the entries.

More than 100 projects representing 13 local Home Builders Associations across Alabama were

LETTER FROM MATT WEBER

submitted for this year’s competition. Project categories ranged from Kitchen Remodel to Outdoor Living to Whole House Remodel, with the top award, the coveted Best in Show, being selected from among the top winners in all categories.

At our website, you can find a video of the award winners, showcasing the wealth of design and construction talent we have throughout the region, ranging in locations from upscale urban to rural country and waterfront projects.

The Ultimate Sports Basement caught my eye, not only due to personal taste, but because of the balance of features and function and how it all tied together beautifully. I’m always impressed when a designer with a sharp eye can envision aspects of a space that don’t yet exist, and then a skilled team of tradesmen can make that

vision into a stunning new reality. You’ll find a lot of these examples among the 2023 AREA award winners.

We plan to cover more of these projects in the future. Although HIR magazine reaches all over the U.S. and beyond, we have a goldmine of design-and-build experts right in our back yard of central Alabama. We want to help share their expertise with the world. You’ll find more homegrown projects in the issues ahead, so if you’re reading this and you know of a hot lead that we should cover, please reach out and give us the scoop!

PUBLISHER JEREMY HOLLINGSWORTH jeremy@HIRpub.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MATT WEBER matt@HIRpub.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR WESLEY GLASSCO wesley@HIRpub.com

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER WARREN PINHEIRO warren@HIRpub.com

ADVISORY BOARD

JIM BUTTERS

RANDY STEPHENSEN DUSTIN SCHWAIGER RICHARD HAMILTON

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTERS CARTER SWIFT TOM MATTHEWS

COPY EDITOR DIANE WEBER

AD DESIGN/COORDINATION SPECIALIZED MEDIA SERVICES, INC. ads@HIRpub.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER SHANNA QUIGLEY

ONLINE/SOCIAL MEDIA DEVELOPMENT GLORIA BERRIO

is published by Pine Mountain Media Group LLC, 130 Inverness Plaza, Suite 226, Birmingham, AL 35242. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without permission. The editorial content is intended to explain and simplify home-improvement tasks. Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes and local regulations change. We assume no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures.

HUBER DONATES $500,000 TO GARY SINISE FOUNDATION

J.M. Huber Corporation (Huber), one of the largest family-owned companies based in the United States, announced today that it has donated $500,000 to the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF) to fund their Empowerment Workshops program for surviving spouses and children of fallen soldiers.

The donated funds will go towards GSF’s Snowball Express initiative, which is committed to year-round programming and support for families that honors their fallen hero, encourages them to make new memories, and provides opportunities to connect with others who know what they’ve been through. Snowball Express Empowerment Workshops are three-day retreats where surviving spouses and young adults come together to bond and learn about self-awareness and effective communication methods to lead empowering lives.

Since 2018 Huber has supported GSF’s R.I.S.E. program, which custom-builds specially adapted, mortgage-free smart homes for US wounded warriors, with donated Huber Engineered Woods products and financial contributions. This helps the veterans regain their freedom and independence. This new level of support will expand its impact to focus on the relief and resiliency of the families of the fallen. To learn more, visit www.huber.com and www.garysinisefoundation.org.

HEADS UP: SLEDGEHAMMER RECALL!

Stanley Black & Decker recalls 2.2 million DeWalt, Stanley and Craftsman fiberglass sledgehammers due to impact injury hazard. The head of the sledgehammers can loosen prematurely and detach unexpectedly during use, posing an impact injury hazard

to the user. This recall involves certain DeWalt, Stanley FATMAX and Craftsman fiberglass sledgehammers and includes those sold at Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and other hardware stores nationwide and online between November 2013 and November 2022. The recalled sledgehammers weigh between 2 and 12 pounds and range between 14” and 36” in length. The DeWalt sledgehammers are yellow and black, the Stanley sledgehammers are yellow and black, and the Craftsman sledgehammers are red and black. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled sledgehammers and contact Stanley Black & Decker for instructions to receive a full refund. Consumers must provide their contact information. Find specific model numbers affected by the recall at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls.

BATTERIES WITH MULTI-BRAND COMPATIBILITY

Bosch Power Tools and its 15-alliance brand partners, including Rothenberger and FEIN, have officially have launched AMPShare – Powered by Bosch. The battery alliance provides a single battery platform for workers to build on, no matter the tool or brand. AMPShare batteries are compatible with select existing and newly launched tools within the multi-brand alliance, including products powered by the current Bosch CORE18V system. Leveraging AMPShare batteries across applications and tools allows users to save space in their toolbox, as well as time and money through fewer battery and charger purchases.

FROGTAPE RELEASES PAINTING HANDBOOK FOR NEWBIES

FrogTape brand introduces the Rookie Painter’s Handbook, a free, downloadable training tool geared for new painters. The Rookie Painter’s Handbook is a valuable supplement to on-the-job skills training that can save painting companies time by providing new hires with information and background to jumpstart their entry into the industry. Covering everything from basic techniques and common trade tools to communication skills and leadership tips, the handbook offers novice painting pros a leg up by helping them become better craftsmen, teammates and employees, as well as developing their customer relationship skills. To download a free copy, visit www.frogtape.com/rookie-handbook.

QUESTION: What’s the best way to stabilize a wobbly toilet?

ANSWER: Toilets wobble or rock because of uneven floors. Over time, movement in the toilet will deteriorate the wax ring, which will result in a toilet leak. To fix the problem, sit on the lid to weigh down the toilet and use a wrench to snug down the flange bolts that hold the base to the floor. Be careful not to overtighten them and crack the porcelain. If any gaps remain between the base and floor, insert plastic toilet shims, Available at most hardware stores, toilet shims are small wedge-shaped tabs. When you’ve used enough shims to stop the toilet from rocking, cut off the excess length. If the shims are too tough to slice with a utility knife, cut with a multi-tool or a wood chisel and hammer.

QUESTION: A ceiling joist crosses the exact spot where I’d like to install a fan. Do I have to move the electrical box to the right or the left, or is there a way to install the ceiling fan where the joist is?

ANSWER: If a ceiling joist crosses the spot where you want to hang a light fixture or ceiling fan, you’ll need to use a saddle box instead of a standard electrical box. The saddle box is shaped with an indentation that wraps around the joist but still provides the code-required wire housing of a junction box. For ceiling fans, the junction box should usually be made of metal to ensure a reliable thread connection with the fan’s mounting bolts. With a saddle box, however, the fan will be installed with screws driven through the box and into the joist, rather than fastened to the box with bolts.

Need more info? Visit Matt’s blog at HomeImprovementAndRepairs.com.

GET READY FOR SUMMER!

Our premium quality hardtop gazebos and outdoor structures can be found in all major online retailers in North America. We strive to be a market leader, and we strongly believe in the quality and innovation of our products.

With over 35 years of experience, a qualified staff of customer service, operation and sales support, we look forward to be a part of your backyard experience. Gazebo Penguin Inc. is committed to provide quality, stylish outdoor structures, and help you create your own backyard oasis.

HOT PRODU

24K GOLD-PLATED RATCHET

Harbor Freight Tools introduces a Special Edition 1/4 -in. Drive 24K Gold-Plated Ratchet to its professional ICON line. The ratchet has a precision machined 90-tooth gear-to-gear mechanism, and a 4-degree arc swing per click. The geared mechanism provides smooth ratcheting and withstands heavy torque that can be applied when loosening or tightening nuts and bolts. Due to its compact size—6 inches in length—and its low-profile head, the ICON 1/4-in. Drive 24K Gold-Plated Ratchet is engineered for precision work in tight spaces. Backed by a lifetime warranty, the Gold-Plated Ratchet is currently priced at $49.99 and is available only at Harbor Freight. Visit harborfreight.com.

HAMMER FIST MULTI-TOOL

Houseworks Group USA introduces Hammer Fist, an innovative multi-tool capable of numerous tasks every homeowner and do-it-yourselfer needs, from hammering to measuring and opening bottles. Ideal for all ages and skill levels, the neon green Hammer Fist is ideal for every home, office, jobsite and car. Measuring 5"H x 3-1/2"D x 1-5/8" W, the easy-to-use Hammer Fist is much more than a simple hammer. The multi-tool performs at least seven tasks, functioning as a non-marring mallet, 90-degree square, SAE and metric ruler, dual nail puller, bottle opener, hex driver, and ball peen hammer for metalworking – even tackling difficult 45-degree angles. This affordable, unique tool is available online for just $20 at www.hammer-fist.com and soon at www.homedepot.com.

WORX NITRO 80V POWER SHARE MOWER

The Worx Nitro 80V lawnmower combines four 20V, 5.0Ah Power Share PRO Batteries to deliver 80V of power. The self-propelled mower features a maintenance-free brushless motor for gas-like power and performance. It also has a durable steel deck with superior mulching capability and rear-wheel drive for maximum traction and maneuverability. The 21-in. Nitro Lawnmower cuts lawns up to 1/2 acre on a single charge. The four 20V 5.0Ah Power Share PRO Batteries are loaded into the Basecamp, a Worx 80V Power Source and 4-Port Charger. The Basecamp keeps all the batteries together for charging and powering the lawnmower. Connect the charge cord and charge all four batteries simultaneously, so they maintain the same charge level. The self-propelled mower also features the Intellicut WORX torque-ondemand system that maintains constant cutting efficiency by electronically monitoring the need for torque. With higher grass, the mower senses it and increases the speed, while with shorter grass it dials it down to save battery consumption. Visit www.worx.com.

ONEIDA AIR SYSTEMS 2.5” HOSE REEL

For the avid woodworker, Oneida Air Systems now offers the only hose reel on the market with 2.5-in. diameter industrial-strength hose—perfect for keeping the workshop tidy and orderly when working with a dust-collection system. The larger 2.5-in. hose unlocks airflow gains unavailable with the smaller 1.5-in. diameter hoses currently on the market. The new hose reel is compatible with all models of Oneida Air’s Supercell, Supercell Turbo, and Dust Cobra dust collectors. It includes 25 feet of high airflow 2.5-in. dia. hose, mounting frame, locking brake and hardware. Visit www.oneida-air.com.

CAT 60V 15” BRUSHLESS LINE TRIMMER

The new Cat 60V, 15-in. Brushless Line Trimmer delivers gas-like performance without hard starts, routine maintenance, and fumes. Recognized worldwide, the Cat brand is noted for its engineering, innovation and rugged dependability of its building and construction equipment. Now, with the emergence of Cat 60V outdoor power equipment, the same focus on quality, durability and performance continues.

This 60V straight-shaft, line trimmer features quality that’s synonymous with the Cat brand. Its dual feed 0.95-in. professional twisted line makes quick work of trimming and edging tasks. Homeowners and professional landscapers alike will appreciate its features and performance.

The 60V trimmer has a dependable high-performance brushless motor that provides up to 40 percent more power and 10 percent longer run time than standard motors. The brushless motor runs cooler with less friction and heat buildup than conventional motors, resulting in smooth, reliable operation and extended tool life. Visit www.catpowertools.com.

SILVERMINE STONE MORTARLESS PILLAR KIT

Silvermine Stone introduces its new Mortarless Stone Pillar Kits. Featuring simple, quick and cost-effective installation, the unique kits enhance the look of exterior posts and pillars. Whether dressing up a porch, deck or creating driveway entrances and much more, the Silvermine Stone Pillar System allows you to integrate decorative pillars into any project quickly and easily. The unique kits provide nearly everything needed to construct an 18-inch by 18inch stone pillar with either 36-inch or 48-inch height options in minutes—no measuring, cutting or calculating needed. Visit https://silverminestone.com.

By Carter Swift

THE ULTIMATE SPORTS BASEMENT WHERE EVERYONE WANTS TO WATCH THE GAME

These Alabama homeowners were ready to reclaim their basement space to welcome friends and family on game day. They got what they wanted.

“The homeowners initially called us because parts of their basement just didn't function the way they needed, and the bathroom needed a facelift,” explains Liz Kennedy, Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer with Elm Construction, LLC. “As you can tell in the project photos, they are huge sports fans and wanted to be able to highlight the memorabilia they have collected throughout the years, as well as enjoy multiple games at a time with their guests.”

As part of an extensive remodel, engineered flooring was installed throughout for a warm feel from the bottom up. Painted white walls and sprayed black open ceilings create a

backdrop for the family’s sports memorabilia that has been collected over the years.

Notable aspects of this basement remodel include a doorway that was enclosed between adjoining rooms. Adding closets to each of

these rooms, as well as adding a window in one of the rooms, allowed one area to serve as a separate entertainment area with a sectional sofa, and the other to be a private bedroom. One of the closets also functions as the space for the new HVAC equipment to service the downstairs.

A wall was framed at the laundry area to create a cutoff/privacy point to the washer and dryer, as well as provide a space to house the new electrical panel, which the basement required.

The old bathroom was completely gutted, and Elm Construction installed a full-size shower with glass tile and mosaic floor with matte black plumbing fixtures. Floating shelves with a stained wood finish provided a warm contrast.

The main living area allows for multiple areas of entertainment. (1) At the end of the room is a poker-table area, which includes an overhead cable track light to feature the client’s jerseys and collectibles.

(2) The TV area provides space for multiple games to be viewed at once, with more memorabilia featured on the opposite wall

with a second cable track light system. (3) The prized jewel of the basement is the custom-built bar area.

The most complex and visited space of this entertaining area, the bar includes a large wall niche with a third cable track light system, which gives even more space to highlight sports memories adjacent to the functional wet bar. An undermount sink and matte black faucet provide the bar with the functionality the homeowners desired, along with a microwave drawer, wine fridge and beverage refrigerator. The wrought iron custom shelving units accent the antique mirror backsplash and the matte black, textured glass pendant. Quartz countertops provide ample service space in contrast with the black cabinetry. All ceilings are left open to provide more height throughout the space, while the wood floor provides a contrasting warmth.

Kennedy notes some of the challenges associated with a major basement remodel. “Some of the challenges we faced included the HVAC system,” she explains. “The original location plan was not going to be functional, so we had to change the direction in how the HVAC would operate, and also change the trunk-line size for optimal height in the finished space.”

She adds, “A concrete platform had to be removed where an original washer and dryer were housed, and we had to coordinate with a waterproofing company to install waterproofing barriers and to pump water onto the other side of the driveway. And due to the open ceiling concept, gaps and penetrations had to be sealed and insu-

lated for code purposes between the basement and main floor.”

The result of all the work is stunning. Between the four TVs on display, the relaxing sofa room, and the spotlights on collectibles, the basement is now a sports enthusiast’s dream entertainment space.

Elm Construction LLC utilizes a design-build process that allows for better coordination between the designers and the contractor to create more efficient and buildable designs and a coordinated team approach. The company’s concept is to use one plan, one contract, and one unified flow of work from the initial concept, through construction, and into project completion. You can find out more about Elm Construction LLC at www.elmbuilds.com.

NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR

BUILDING OUTDOORS

By Carter Smith

Spring is a prime time for building outdoors and preparing your property for having fun in the sun. We’ve rounded up some of the latest product and material options to consider for your next springtime project.

DECK SCREW ON STEROIDS

A “deck screw on steroids,” the U2 Universal Screw is ideal for replacing those old, failing nails or deck screws. Made of case-hardened carbon steel, these self-starting screws feature U2’s trademark Tight Star Recess, so they grip the matching U-bit so tightly they allow for one-handed installation. Beneath the screw head, special Burrow Pockets help to countersink into the toughest of materials. The Universal Screw is designed to drive and into the many types of materials used in residential construction, and they’re available in sizes ranging from 1/2 to 12 inches, as well as in an assortment of stainless 316 versions. www.u2fasteners.com

CAMO JOIST + LEDGER DECK TAPE EXTENDS DECK LIFE

National Nail’s CAMO brand introduces an added layer of protection for the deck substructure, with CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape. Made in the USA, the selfadhesive butyl tape creates a waterproof membrane to protect wood deck framing against moisture, which can lead to rot. It self-seals around fasteners, blocking the pathway of water into wood. Apply CAMO deck tape to the

top of joists and ledger board, between joist hangers and ledger board, between rim joists and fascia, and between framing and joist hangers. Securely bonding to the wood framing, one 65 ft. roll of CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape covers approximately 75 square feet of deck framing. The tape is available in three sizes: 1-5⁄8-inch width for single joists to fully cover tops of 2x wood joists; 3-1⁄8-inch width for use with double joists; and 6-inch width ideal for ledger and rim joists.

www.camofasteners.com

MARINE DECKING FOR WATERFRONT WORK

TanDeck Marine Decking is a low-maintenance decking material that provides premium wood-like aesthetics with advanced durability.

Made from a blend of extremely tough recycled HDPE, strengthening agents, UV inhibitors and anti-static additives, this resilient deck board is engineered for residential boat docks, marinas and piers. It requires no waterproofing, staining or painting. The wood-free decking offers exceptional resistance to moisture, fading, insects, splintering, warping and exposure to the harsh marine environment. Strong and practical, Tangent’s plastic 5/4×6 dock decking allows up to 16″ on-center spans and 2×6 up to 24″ to replace wood decking for residential and light commercial applications. Backed by a 50-year limited product warranty, Tangent Marine Deck boards are embossed with a wood-like texture on both faces. To clean, just wash with mild, environmentally friendly soap like Dawn and rinse with water.

www.tangentmaterials.com

PROTECT YOUR DECK

The YellaWood Protector brand of pro-grade, acrylic-oil hybrid wood stains and sealers are water repellent and provide excellent protection for all outdoor projects like decks, fences or outdoor furniture. In accelerated weather test exposure to UV light, condensation and high temperatures, YellaWood Protector stains demonstrated color fastness and coating durability equal or superior to the leading competitor’s tested products. The Protector wood stain and sealer has iron oxide pigments for rich, long-lasting color. The premium alkyd oil finish penetrates wood to provide superior moisture damage protection, resist wear, and fend off mold and mildew. For homeowners who prefer a natural look, the clear, water-repellent deck sealer is loaded with UV stabilizers to maintain that stunning appearance provided by Mother Nature herself.

www.yellawood.com

DIY-FRIENDLY DECK KITS

Fortress Building Products adds customizable Deck Kits, which include all the products, hardware and components needed to build a standard 12-by-12-ft. deck. True to the company’s Total Solution approach, Fortress Deck Kits include steel deck framing, decking and railing in a complete package for a simplified deck ordering experience and installation process. The Evolution steel deck framing system will sidestep any issues associated with moisture absorption, is backed by a 25-year limited manufacturer warranty, and it received a Class-A Fire Rating. Resting on top of the steel frame, Apex capped bamboo-PVC composite

decking features non-repeating grain patterns, enhanced wood grain textures and rich, vivid color choices like Brazilian Teak and Himalayan Cedar. By offering the new kits through leading home-improvement retailers, including Home Depot, Lowe’s and Wayfair, Fortress can offer DIY homeowners and residential contractors quick and convenient avenues to purchase an all-in-one deck system.

www.fortressbp.com

ADD TO YOUR OUTDOORS WITH A GAZEBO KIT

Gazebo Penguin Inc. has been manufacturing and importing steel, aluminum and polycarbonate solariums and gazebos since 1984. Sold as kits, the company’s premium quality hardtop gazebos and outdoor structures can be found in all major online retailers in North America. The gazebos are available in brown and slate colors with metal or polycarbonate roofs. The solariums are available as freestanding or wall-mounted versions in multiple sizes. With over 35 years of experience, and a qualified staff of customer service, operation and sales support, Gazebo Penguin provides quality, stylish outdoor structures to help you create your own backyard oasis.

www.gazebopenguin.com/en

SAVE TIME AND LABOR WITH PRE-COLORED LUMBER

Prowood Lumber’s most popular option for decking is Color Treated with an EPA-registered, color-infused preservative that allows the wood's natural grain characteristics to remain visible. Rather than relying on a topical finish or stain that may quickly fade, the Color Treated pigment

is driven deep into the wood fibers so it's guaranteed to stand up to the elements for years. It’s the look you want without the work of staining. The treatment is backed by a lifetime limited warranty to prevent termite attacks and fungal decay. Color Treated is also compatible with aluminum building materials, meaning it’s less corrosive to fasteners. Tests have shown that cedar and redwood will fade while Color Treated prevails, and Prowood backs the Color Treated lumber with the industry’s first 2-year and 5-year color assurance limited warranties.

www.prowoodlumber.com

LUMBER INDUSTRY'S FIRST AI SYSTEM

Ipe Woods USA, a top supplier of premium hardwood decking and lumber, launches the development of the first AI system tailored for the lumber industry. Available exclusively for Ipe Woods USA customers, the system features a conversational interface, allowing customers

to interact with the AI, receive personalized recommendations, and make precise calculations. Customers can obtain advice on essential tools, accessories, clips, and screws for their projects, along with explanations for the best choices. The AI Lumber Assistant (named Chuck) can save customers time by getting quick and accurate answers to their questions, and gain access to an extensive knowledge base about Ipe Woods USA products and services.

www.ipewood.com

www.ipewood.com/ai

DECKING MADE OF STONE

Tanzite is a stone product (not wood, composite or PVC) so it naturally doesn’t scratch, fade, get slippery, or heat up like other decking options, and it’s backed by a lifetime warranty. Tanzite stone is light enough and designed to simply install over any typical wood deck structure. Since stone doesn’t expand like composite, your cuts stay perfect. The durability of stone allows for detailed designs, with amazing highlights and lowlights creating a hyper-realistic natural

beauty. Plus, the manufacture of Tanzite Stone doesn’t cut down trees nor does it use plastics of any kind. It’s one of the most sustainable types of decking possible. Its longevity, due to durability, creates one of the lowest environmental impacts of any decking option. The Tanzite Appalachian Collection is a non-waterproof system that is installed like composite decking with hidden fasteners. The Rainier Collection is a free-floating waterproof system that is installed over a subfloor. www.tanzite.com

RAIN PROTECTION UNDER A DECK

The Trex RainEscape under-deck drainage system is an ideal solution for those wanting to fully protect their deck’s foundation from moisture damage while optimizing the usability of the space beneath an elevated deck. Using an integrated network of troughs and downspouts applied above the joists of the substructure, the system captures and diverts water away from the deck to create dry space underneath. Once protected, this space can be used for storage or outfitted with furnishings and accessories to create an additional outdoor living area. Gas and electrical lines can be safely and discreetly run between the deck surface and soffit ceiling below to power lighting, ceiling fans, grills, appliances, electrical components and more. RainEscape is now warrantied against defects in materials or workmanship under normal and proper use for a period of 25 years from the date of purchase. www.trex.com

FIRE IN THE BOWL

The modern Lyra Fire Bowl features a patentpending brass burner system that uses half the fuel of conventional fire rings, yet produces higher flames and a brighter appearance. Lyra

exudes a linear design with a gently sloped fire feature. Sharp 90 degree inset walls add to its unique monolithic concrete design. The patent-pending burner system comes complete with powerful 65,000 BTU burner, all brass fittings, heavy-duty stainless steel platform and 10-year limited warranty. Fire Bowls are available in four colors designed to represent various types of natural limestone

www.mykindredliving.com

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RHINO WOOD

Nova USA Wood Products, Inc. has been named the exclusive provider of Rhino Wood in North America. Rhino Wood is a modified timber produced through a patented two-stage process that uses thermal modification and pressure to

impregnate the original wood right to the core with a proprietary compound. This patented process results in a sustainable alternative to hardwoods like Ipe. Rhino Wood achieves the same high-density, low-maintenance and Class 1 durability characteristics as Ipe hardwood, while aging beautifully into a silver-grey color over time. In addition to being biodegradable and containing zero toxins and no VOCs, Rhino Wood can also be disposed like any other untreated wood. Other advantages include the ability to resist dents, scratches, surface damage, moisture, swelling, shrinkage, insects, UV degradation, rot and decay.

www.novausawood.com

NEW RAILING OPTIONS

MoistureShield has launched the new Solid Core Composite Series Railing and Compass Series Aluminum Railing. Made in the USA, MoistureShield’s Solid Core Composite Railings are designed for durability and will not rot, splinter, warp or stain. Available in three profiles, each Solid Core kit includes top rails, infill

options and hidden brackets with no squeaks or rattles. Accessories include post sleeves, gate kits, wired or solar lighting options and ADA components. MoistureShield’s Compass Series Aluminum Railing adds sleek, contemporary edge to any deck design, with Cambridge or Classic style top rail options, in Matte Black or Matte Bronze powder-coated finish.

www.MoistureShield.com

TAKE A LOOK THROUGH A GLASS DECK

The SkyFloor Modular Glass Deck System from Glass Flooring Systems, Inc. is designed specifically to be used in a deck application to allow light to shine through the deck into the space below. The system comes with everything needed for installation and integrates easily into standard 16-in. on-center framing. The walkable glass panels are available in two tested anti-slip texture options—the clear NanoDot and the opaque, more private LuxRaff Regular. The systems are ICC certified and easy to install. www.glassflooringsystems.com

BUILD A PAVER PATIO

HOW

TO

CONSTRUCT A FLEXIBLE-BASE PAVER PATIO, STEP

BY STEP

Patios make a great place to relax or socialize, and a paversurfaced patio provides a decorative way to build a long-lasting addition to your home. Pavers are available in many sizes and colors, and they can be laid in a number of patterns. Some of these include stack-bond, herringbone, running-bond and basket weave. These standard patterns can also be created in a wide number of variations.

Since patios are typically built with a walking surface just a couple of inches higher than the ground, construction of the patio begins with a lot of excavation.

Most paver patios are built with a flexible base instead of a rigid concrete slab. The patio base is made of at least 4 inches of compacted crushed rock. The depth should measure 4 inches after compaction, which means the base begins with a loose bed about 6 inches deep spread evenly across the patio site. In cold climates where ice heaving is a problem, the compacted bed should be deeper, even up to 8 inches. (Vehicular use requires a base between 8 and 12 inches deep). It’s a good idea for the bed of crushed rock to extend 6 to 10 inches beyond the edges of the finished paver surface.

By Matt Weber

Plan the patio layout by marking it with stakes and a string line. Then measure the area in square feet to determine the amount of materials needed. Estimate the number of pavers based on the size and shape of the pavers that you’ve chosen. For waste, add 5 percent for uncut laid pavers and 10 percent for pavers that are to be cut. Note that cutting pavers will require a brick saw, but the pavers can often be laid in a pattern that requires no cutting.

You will also need to determine the amount of edging material you’ll need by measuring the lineal feet of the exposed patio sides. You have many options for edging material, including retaining wall blocks, staked-down

landscape edging, or a concrete berm.

Sand and crushed gravel are measured in cubic yards, and one cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Normally, the bed of crushed rock is topped with 1- to 1-1/2 inches of sand. We recommend using concrete sand (rather than masonry sand) because it has a coarse aggregate that resists washing out over time.

To find out the cubic yards needed for every 1 inch of sand bed, multiply the square footage by .00309. To determine the amount of gravel needed for a 4-in. bed, multiply the square footage by .01235.

When calculating your patio dimensions, first determine the finished top surface of the patio and plan in reverse. Most homeowners want the patio surface to be just a couple of inches above the ground, which provides your starting elevation. From that point, measure downward to determine the depth of the digging, based on the thickness of the pavers, sand bed, and crushed rock. Note that for proper drainage, your patio should slope away from the house 1 inch for every 8 feet.

You will need to plan carefully how to manage the delivery and storage of the materials on site. Paver patios are often touted as DIY-friendly projects, but don’t overlook the logistical challenges of moving the materials. Concrete pavers are heavy, and if they aren’t delivered right where you need them, you’ll have to transport

Expect to do a lot of digging on this project. We removed a fence panel at the rear of the property and disposed of the excess dirt from the excavation in a wooded area, then replaced the fence panel.

them. Iron out these details with your supplier to reduce your labor. Construction of large patios usually requires renting a mini skid-steer and a plate compactor.

BREAKING GROUND

Before digging out the patio, call 811, which is a free nationwide service that will come to your home and mark the underground utility lines to help you avoid a costly accident.

On the project shown, we used a mini skidsteer for the bulk of the excavation, but the job still required a lot of manual labor to define the edges and to fine-tune the grade. A variety of digging tools will come in handy, including a mattock to pierce the ground, plus a variety of spades, shovels, hoes, etc.

After the site has been graded flat, we used a vibrating plate compactor to tamp down the soil. Proper compaction is critical to all phases of a patio project. We recommend that you compact the soil, compact the gravel base, and even compact the patio surface to ensure the pavers are firmly set in the base. (Note: At the rental outlet, request a rubber footplate for the plate compactor to prevent damage to the paver surface when compacting it.)

As an extra level of weed protection, we applied landscape fabric over the patio site before construction.

Decide the height of your patio as your starting point, then add up the material layers and work downward to determine your depth of excavation. A variety of landscaping tools will come in handy for the digging.

For best long-term results, tamp down the excavated ground as well as each material layer of the patio. Cover the compacted earth with landscape fabric.

Next, the landscape fabric is covered with crushed rock. Spread the rock evenly on the site before compacting it. A landscape rake can be particularly useful to spread the rock because it has a broad metal head with rigid tines to move the heavy material.

Since the sand bed will be screeded to match the rock bed, it’s important to engineer the

patio slope into the crushed rock. We used a string level to keep an eye on the slope (along with a 2x4, which we used as a gauge to represent the thickness of the paver surface plus the sand bed.)

Once the rock bed is graded to the right slope, compact it with the plate compactor.

Spread the crushed rock and compact it. We used a line level to ensure we had a slope of 1” per 8’ away from the house. A 2x4 laid on its edge (3-1/2”) served as a makeshift depth gauge to represent the thickness of our pavers (2-1/2” thick) plus the sand bed (1”).

SAND BED AND PAVERS

Next, comes the sand bed, which can be screeded perfectly smooth before applying the pavers.

For large patio areas, you might find it easiest to form the sand bed in sections. We used 1-inch PVC pipes to form the sections. The pipes served a dual purpose: (1) as a continuous depth gauge for the sand bed and (2) as the guide-rails for our screed tool.

Our method: Lay the pipes parallel to each other 3 to 4 feet apart and pour the sand between them. Use a hoe or rake to spread the sand roughly throughout the section. Use enough sand that it piles above the pipes. Then, use a screeding tool stretched flush across the two pipes to strike off the excess sand and level the 1-inch bed flush with the top edge of the pipes. We used an aluminum straight-edge as a screed tool, but a 2x4 board can also be used—just make sure it is perfectly straight. Remove the pipe that is nearest to the edge of the patio, fill its indentation with sand, and trowel it level with the surrounding bed.

We then laid pavers over the completed section of sand bed. Begin laying pavers in one corner of the sand bed, carefully adhering to the layout pattern. Use a rubber mallet to set the pavers into the base.

Once the pavers are complete in that section, move to the next area of the patio site and lay the pipe parallel to the one already in place (3 to 4 feet away). Add sand between the pipes and repeat the screeding process. Then add the pavers. Work from section to section until you’ve completed the paver installation at the opposite end of the patio.

BUILD A PAVER PATIO

Paver pattern and patio shape will determine how many bricks need to be cut. A curved patio will need to have pavers cut to follow the curve of the border. A rectangular patio can avoid those cuts. A basket-weave pattern is ideal because full pavers can be used throughout a square or rectangular shaped patio. Using a running-bond or 90-degree herringbone in rectangular areas will only require half-cuts. A wet saw (or a brick set) can be used to cut the pavers.

The paver surface should be compacted when complete. The rental store should include a rubber footplate with the compactor which will help prevent any damage to the pavers.

FINAL PHASES

The bottom of the pavers should be recessed below grade with their surface just above ground level. The patio edges should be anchored in place to resist movement and retain the interior pavers.

To create edging that will secure the outer patio pavers, we compacted the ground around

the patio and then created a berm of fiberreinforced concrete that ramped against the exposed sides at a 30-degree angle. The berm would eventually get buried and concealed beneath the lawn.

Patio edges that remain above ground (to overcome sloped grades) are built over a short, mortared wall (block or stone with the first course below grade). In such a case, the edge pavers are mortared to the wall as a final course to retain the inner pavers.

As an edge restraint, we compacted the base around the pavers, then installed a berm made of fiber-reinforced concrete.

Joint sand will interlock the pavers and provide cushion between them to prevent paver-to-paver contact and chipping. The joints need to be filled completely with sand to function properly and interlock the system. We recommend using polymeric sand, which is a mixture of polymers and calibrated sand that becomes a firm, but flexible, paver joint. Some professionals recommend troweling the sand into the paver joints for the

a paver to sink out of alignment. However, the modular natural of the construction makes a paver patio relatively easy to maintain, requiring little more than lifting out the bricks and adding sand to level out the spot. H

best results. Polymeric sand prevents erosion and washout, and resists weeds and ants and burrowing insects.

These same basic building procedures can be used to construct paver sidewalks and even driveways (built with deeper base material). Note that walkways should be slightly crowned to allow for settling.

Even with proper excavation, sand will often settle in some places, causing

The last step is to fill all the joints with polymeric sand, which will interlock the patio and provide cushion between the pavers.

Repairing a leaky bathroom faucet is a quick and inexpensive fix that even first-time DIY’ers can accomplish. This article will show how to replace a common two-handle compression faucet, but the steps are similar for other faucet types.

FIX A LEAKY BATHROOM FAUCET

By Tom Matthews

in the hot water handle. Leave the valve shut off for whichever handle you’ll be working on.

STEP 2

STEP 1

First, turn off the cold water valve. If the water stops dripping, then the problem is in the coldwater handle of the faucet. If the water still drips, then the problem is

Remove the faucet handle, which will be screwed in place from the side or the top. If there is a set screw, use a hex key or Allen wrench to loosen and remove it. If the handle has a top screw cover, pry it off with a flat screwdriver and set it aside. Then, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screw beneath the cover. 1 2

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STEP 3

Be sure to close the sink drain to avoid losing any small parts. Set the handle screw aside in a safe place.

STEP 4

Pull the handle free to reveal the faucet cartridge.

STEP 5

Use a crescent wrench to loosen the packing nut around the cartridge.

STEP 6

Remove the nut and pull out the cartridge.

STEP 7

Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to find an exact match for replacement.

STEP 8

Replace the new cartridge into the handle, aligning it according to the instructions included with the cartridge.

STEP 9

Apply the packing nut, tightening it down with a wrench enough to compress the O-ring of the cartridge to prevent any leakage.

STEP 10

Replace the handle and screw and tighten it in place. Open the water valves.

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