Buying a home is a big deal—like, life-changing big. And while the fresh paint and cozy fireplace might be calling your name, there’s something less glamorous you absolutely need to check before signing those closing...
If your gas water heater’s pilot light won’t stay lit, there’s a very good chance you need a water heater thermocouple replacement. I’m going to tell you what a thermocouple is, what it does, the...
A frost-proof faucet on the exterior of your home (technically called a sillcock, it’s also known as a frost-free or freeze-proof faucet) is similar to a common outdoor faucet. What’s the difference? The outdoor frost-proof...
What’s a Septic Tank, Anyway? Let’s break it down real quick. A septic tank is an underground system that treats your household wastewater. Everything that goes down your drains—from the toilet to the washing machine—ends...
What Is a Toilet Ring—and Why It Matters Let’s start with the basics. A toilet ring—also known as a wax ring—is a thick, donut-shaped seal made from soft wax. It sits between the toilet base...
A pinhole leak doesn’t sound like much. But those who’ve had one know how much damage can be caused to walls, floors, and ceilings when they’re not repaired. It’s important to stop the leak immediately...
While the sight of mildewed caulk may make you wish you could renovate the entire bathroom, the expensive and effort is often too much. But caulking is all around your bathtub and bathroom fixtures for...
Let’s face it—drains aren’t exactly the stars of the show when it comes to home maintenance. But the moment something goes wrong? Oh, you’ll notice. Slow drainage, mysterious odors, and gurgling sounds are just the...
When it comes to bathroom repairs, some of the smallest parts carry the biggest responsibilities—and the toilet flange is a perfect example. It’s not flashy, but without the right one, you could end up with...
Because this handy kitchen fixture is perhaps the most undervalued in your home, we’re going to teach you how to troubleshoot your garbage disposal. But first, let’s learn all we can about this unheralded kitchen...
When it comes to flooring that can withstand moisture, tile is one of the better options. Too much moisture can be a problem even for this sort of flooring. Make sure you’re taking care of...
There’s nothing quite like stepping into the shower—only to be greeted by a pitiful trickle instead of a powerful stream. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Low water pressure is a common frustration for...
