Call John The Handyman For Professional & Reliable Handyman Services In Or Around Toronto!

Blog

Making A Doorway Taller

If you have a standard height doorway and want to make it taller, there are a few steps you can take:

  1. Determine the height you want the doorway to be: Measure the height of the existing doorway and decide on the new height you want. Keep in mind that you will need to raise the door frame and the wall above the doorway.
  2. Remove the existing door and frame: Remove the existing door and frame using a crowbar and hammer. Be careful not to damage the surrounding walls or trim.
  3. Remove the drywall above the doorway: Use a utility knife to cut the drywall along the top of the doorway. Remove the drywall to expose the studs above the doorway.
  4. Raise the door frame: Use a saw to cut the studs above the doorway to the new height. Install new studs above the doorway to support the new door frame. Install the new door frame at the desired height and secure it in place using framing nails.
  5. Install new drywall: Cut a new piece of drywall to fit the space above the doorway. Install the drywall using drywall screws and joint compound. Sand the joint compound smooth and finish with paint or texture as desired.
  6. Install the new door: Install the new door into the taller doorway using the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to adjust the hinges to fit the new height of the door frame.

By following these steps, you can make a doorway taller and create a more spacious and open feel in your home. Keep in mind that this is a major renovation project that requires some carpentry and drywall skills. If you're not comfortable with these tasks, it's best to hire a professional contractor to do the work for you.

Everything You Should Know About Making Your Home More Fun To Live In & Enjoyable To Visit For Your Family and Loved Ones

Making your home more fun and enjoyable is a great way to create happy memories with your family and loved ones. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you make your home a fun and enjoyable place to live and visit:

  1. Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere: Add soft lighting, comfortable furniture, and cozy textiles like throw blankets and pillows to create a welcoming and comfortable space.
  2. Add color and personality: Add color to your walls, furniture, and accessories to create a vibrant and personalized space. Consider painting an accent wall or adding colorful artwork and accessories.
  3. Create a game room or entertainment center: Create a dedicated space for playing games, watching movies, or listening to music. Invest in a comfortable seating arrangement, a high-quality sound system, and a large screen TV for an immersive experience.
  4. Incorporate outdoor living spaces: Make use of your outdoor space by creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor living area. Add comfortable seating, outdoor lighting, and accessories like fire pits or outdoor speakers.
  5. Create a kid-friendly space: Create a dedicated space for children to play and explore. Add toys, games, and art supplies to encourage creativity and play.
  6. Add technology: Incorporate technology into your home to make it more enjoyable and fun. Consider adding a smart home system, wireless speakers, or a home theater system.
  7. Make use of plants and greenery: Add plants and greenery to your home to create a calming and natural environment. Plants can improve air quality and create a soothing atmosphere.
  8. Host regular gatherings: Host regular gatherings for family and friends to create fun and enjoyable memories. Plan a game night, movie night, or a themed party to bring everyone together.

By implementing these tips and suggestions, you can make your home a fun and enjoyable place to live and visit for your family and loved ones. Remember to personalize your space and make it a reflection of your unique style and interests.

Everything You Should Know About Making Your Home Safer & More Comfortable For Your Family and Loved Ones

Making your home safer and more comfortable for your family and loved ones is an important part of maintaining a healthy and happy living environment. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you create a safe and comfortable home:

  1. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential safety devices that can alert you to potential fire or gas hazards in your home. Install these detectors in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home.
  2. Check for radon: Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can be present in your home and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Test your home for radon and take steps to mitigate it if necessary.
  3. Install a security system: A security system can help deter burglars and provide peace of mind for you and your family. Look for a system that includes door and window sensors, motion detectors, and a loud alarm.
  4. Ensure proper lighting: Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents and injuries in your home. Install bright lights in high-traffic areas, stairways, and outside entrances.
  5. Reduce slip and fall hazards: Remove rugs or secure them with non-slip backing, repair loose steps or handrails, and ensure that walking surfaces are free from clutter.
  6. Create a comfortable indoor temperature: Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by installing a programmable thermostat, insulating your home, and sealing air leaks around windows and doors.
  7. Install grab bars and other safety devices: If you have elderly or disabled family members, install grab bars in the bathroom, and consider other safety devices, such as shower chairs and raised toilet seats.
  8. Keep cleaning supplies and other hazardous materials out of reach: Store cleaning supplies, medications, and other hazardous materials in a locked cabinet or out of reach of children and pets.
  9. Check for lead and asbestos: Older homes may have lead-based paint or asbestos in insulation and other building materials. Check for these hazards and take steps to mitigate them if necessary.

By implementing these tips and suggestions, you can create a safer and more comfortable home for your family and loved ones. Be sure to regularly maintain your home and make necessary repairs to ensure continued safety and comfort.

Why You Should Get A Shower Filter

Getting a shower filter can provide several benefits for your health, skin, and hair. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting a shower filter:

  1. Reduce chlorine exposure: Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect municipal water supplies, but it can have negative effects on your skin and hair. Chlorine can dry out your skin and hair, strip natural oils, and cause irritation and itching. A shower filter can remove chlorine from your shower water, reducing your exposure and improving the health of your skin and hair.
  2. Remove other impurities: In addition to chlorine, shower water can contain other impurities, such as heavy metals, sediment, and bacteria. A shower filter can remove these impurities, providing cleaner and safer water for your shower.
  3. Improve respiratory health: Chlorine and other impurities in shower water can also be inhaled through steam and aerosols, potentially causing respiratory problems for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. A shower filter can remove these impurities, improving the air quality in your bathroom and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
  4. Reduce dryness and itching: Hard water can leave behind mineral deposits on your skin and hair, causing dryness, itching, and irritation. A shower filter can remove these minerals, leaving your skin and hair feeling softer and more hydrated.
  5. Eco-friendly option: Using a shower filter can also be an eco-friendly option by reducing the amount of plastic waste generated by disposable water bottles and reducing your overall water usage.

Overall, a shower filter can provide several benefits for your health, skin, and hair, as well as reducing your environmental impact. Consider getting a shower filter to improve your shower experience and overall well-being.

Best Shower Filter

There are several types of shower filters available on the market, each designed to remove different impurities from your shower water. Here are some of the best shower filters based on their features and effectiveness:

  1. AquaBliss High Output Universal Shower Filter: This filter uses a 12-stage filtration process to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities from your shower water. It is easy to install and compatible with most shower heads and plumbing.
  2. Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Shower Head: This shower filter is designed to attach directly to your shower head and provides a filtered shower experience without the need for a separate filter housing. It features a 5-spray setting shower head and a replaceable filter cartridge.
  3. Sonaki Vitamin C Shower Filter: This shower filter uses Vitamin C to neutralize chlorine and other impurities in your shower water. It is easy to install and fits most shower heads.
  4. Berkey Shower Filter: This filter uses a combination of KDF-55, calcium sulfite, and activated carbon to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities from your shower water. It is easy to install and compatible with most shower heads and plumbing.
  5. Sprite HO2-WH-M Universal Shower Filter and 3 Setting Shower Head: This filter uses a combination of KDF-55 and Chlorgon to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities from your shower water. It also includes a 3-spray setting shower head for a customizable shower experience.

When choosing a shower filter, consider the type of impurities in your water, the compatibility with your shower head and plumbing, and the filter replacement schedule.

Making Your Own Shower Filter

Making your own shower filter can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities from your shower water. Here are some steps to make your own shower filter:

  1. Choose a filter cartridge: You can purchase a filter cartridge online or from a hardware or home improvement store. Look for a filter that is designed for shower use and has a high-quality filter media that can effectively remove impurities from the water.
  2. Choose a housing: You will need a housing to hold the filter cartridge. You can purchase a housing specifically designed for shower filters or use a PVC pipe and fittings to make your own. Make sure the housing is large enough to hold the filter cartridge and has connectors that fit your shower plumbing.
  3. Prepare the housing: If you are making your own housing, cut a length of PVC pipe to the desired size and glue on end caps or threaded fittings to create an inlet and outlet. Make sure the fittings are tight and sealed to prevent leaks.
  4. Install the filter: Insert the filter cartridge into the housing and connect the housing to your shower plumbing. Use Teflon tape to seal the connections and prevent leaks.
  5. Test the filter: Turn on your shower and check for leaks. Let the water run for a few minutes to flush out any air or sediment in the filter. Check the flow rate and make sure the water is flowing smoothly through the filter.
  6. Replace the filter: Depending on the quality of your water and the type of filter cartridge you are using, you may need to replace the filter every few months. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for filter replacement.

Making your own shower filter can be a simple and effective way to improve the quality of your shower water. Be sure to choose a high-quality filter cartridge and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance.

Best Nail For Nailing Plywood

When nailing plywood, it is important to choose the right type of nail to ensure a strong and secure hold. Here are some recommended nails for nailing plywood:

  1. Ring-shank nails: These nails have rings around the shank that provide extra grip and prevent the nail from pulling out. They are a popular choice for nailing plywood and other types of sheathing.
  2. Annular nails: These nails have small rings or ridges along the shank that increase their holding power. They are a good choice for nailing plywood and other types of sheet goods.
  3. Screw shank nails: These nails have a threaded shank that provides extra grip and helps prevent the nail from backing out. They are a good choice for nailing plywood and other types of sheet goods.
  4. Coated nails: Nails that are coated with a special coating, such as galvanized or stainless steel, are more resistant to rust and corrosion, which can weaken the nail and the hold over time. They are a good choice for outdoor applications or for areas with high moisture levels.

When selecting nails for nailing plywood, be sure to choose nails that are long enough to penetrate the plywood and into the underlying structure, but not so long that they penetrate too far and damage the underlying structure. Additionally, it is important to space the nails properly according to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure a secure hold.

Supporting A Hot Tub On Your Backyard Deck

Supporting a hot tub on your backyard deck requires careful consideration of the weight of the tub, the strength of the deck, and the overall safety of the installation. Here are some tips for supporting a hot tub on your backyard deck:

  1. Determine the weight of the hot tub: Hot tubs can weigh anywhere from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds when filled with water. Make sure you know the weight of your hot tub before installing it on your deck.
  2. Check the strength of your deck: Hot tubs are heavy and require a sturdy support structure. Check with a building professional or a structural engineer to ensure that your deck can support the weight of your hot tub, as well as any additional weight that may be added by people using the tub.
  3. Use a hot tub pad: Place a hot tub pad under your hot tub to provide a stable, level surface and protect your deck from moisture and chemicals.
  4. Install support posts: Depending on the weight of your hot tub and the size of your deck, you may need to install additional support posts under your deck to help distribute the weight of the tub evenly.
  5. Consider access: Make sure you have a clear path for the hot tub to be delivered to your deck and that there is enough clearance to remove the hot tub if necessary.
  6. Follow local building codes: Make sure you follow local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before installing your hot tub on your deck.
  7. Consider professional installation: If you're not comfortable installing your hot tub on your deck, consider hiring a professional to do the job. A professional installer can help ensure that your hot tub is installed safely and securely on your deck.

Drywall Mud vs Wood Filler

Drywall mud and wood filler are two different materials used for different purposes.

Drywall mud, also known as joint compound, is used to fill gaps and seams in drywall. It is a gypsum-based material that dries hard and can be sanded smooth once it has dried. Drywall mud is typically used to finish joints between sheets of drywall and to cover screw and nail heads.

Wood filler, on the other hand, is a putty-like substance that is used to fill small gaps and holes in wood. It is made of a mixture of wood particles and a binding agent, such as latex or epoxy. Once it dries, it can be sanded, stained, and painted to match the surrounding wood.

While both drywall mud and wood filler can be used to fill gaps and holes, they are not interchangeable. Drywall mud is designed for use with drywall and should not be used on wood surfaces. Wood filler is designed for use with wood and should not be used on drywall.

In summary, drywall mud is used for finishing drywall, while wood filler is used for filling gaps and holes in wood. It is important to use the right material for the job to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Costs-Saving Pool Maintenance Tips & Tricks

  1. Regularly skim the pool: Skimming your pool on a regular basis can help prevent debris from building up in your pool and clogging your filter. This will also help reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain the pool.
  2. Use a pool cover: A pool cover can help keep your pool clean and reduce the amount of water lost through evaporation. It can also help regulate the temperature of your pool, reducing the need for heating or cooling.
  3. Maintain proper water chemistry: Keeping your pool's pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels within the proper range can help prevent algae growth and reduce the need for additional chemicals.
  4. Run your pool pump during off-peak hours: Running your pool pump during off-peak hours, such as at night, can help reduce your energy costs.
  5. Use a robotic pool cleaner: A robotic pool cleaner can help reduce the amount of time and effort needed to maintain your pool. They are also energy efficient and can help reduce the amount of chemicals needed to keep your pool clean.
  6. Clean your pool filter regularly: Cleaning your pool filter regularly can help keep it functioning properly, which can help reduce the need for expensive repairs.
  7. Use a solar pool heater: Installing a solar pool heater can help reduce your energy costs and extend your swimming season.
  8. Keep the pool covered during winter: If you're not using your pool during the winter months, keeping it covered can help prevent debris from building up and reduce the amount of water lost through evaporation.
  9. Reduce water usage: Reducing water usage can help lower your water bill and reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain your pool. Consider using a pool cover, fixing leaks, and using a water-efficient pool pump.
  10. Consider alternative sanitation methods: Alternative sanitation methods, such as saltwater chlorination, can help reduce the amount of chlorine needed to keep your pool clean, which can help save you money in the long run.