Additional Posts From This Author
When I first heard about track saws, I brushed them off as just another overhyped tool. “Why would I need that when I already have a table saw and a circular saw with a guide?” I thought. But after seeing countless pros—from cabinetmakers to remodelers—swear by them, I decided to give one a shot. Let...
Space heaters can be a lifesaver when the temperature drops, but they can also be risky if you’re not careful. Honestly, I used to be pretty nervous about using them. After all, they’re responsible for a lot of home heating fires, and with kids (or pets) around, it feels like you can’t take any chances....
Home should feel like your safest place, but it’s hard to relax if you’re worried about someone breaking in. Maybe you’ve heard stories from friends, or there’s been some sketchy stuff happening nearby. Either way, it’s totally normal to want to step up your home security. The good news? You don’t need to turn your...
Let’s face it—no one enjoys getting slapped with a massive electricity bill. If you’re like me, you’ve probably looked around your house thinking, How can I make this more efficient without spending a fortune? Enter heat pumps. These clever little systems are making waves, but are they all they’re cracked up to be? Let’s break...
Having a car is pretty great—until something goes wrong, and you’re stuck wondering how much it’s going to cost or how long you’ll be without it. The truth is, most of the problems mechanics deal with could’ve been avoided with a little know-how. It’s not about being a car expert; it’s about understanding the basics...
Mold is one of those things you don’t really think about—until you have to. As a husband and dad, I know how important it is to keep my home safe and healthy for my family. The problem is, mold has a sneaky way of hiding in places you’d never expect, quietly causing damage and potentially...
As a husband and dad, nothing matters more to me than making sure my family is safe and comfortable at home. But let’s be honest—life gets busy, and it’s easy to overlook things that might be warning signs of trouble, like mold. The scary part is, mold can hide in places you wouldn’t even think...
Nothing beats the satisfaction of fixing something yourself and saving a little money. But some jobs aren’t just tricky, they’re dangerous. The kind of projects that make you think, “How hard could it be?” often end up costing way more in stress, time, and potential disasters than hiring a pro would. Whether it’s about safety,...
In the hustle of daily life, your car’s reliability starts with a good battery. I’ve sifted through Consumer Reports and real-world feedback to find car batteries that won’t let you down when it matters most. This article is your guide to the best car batteries out there that are built to last. Whether it’s freezing...
When the cooler weather rolls in, having a reliable source of backup power can make all the difference. Whether it’s keeping the lights on during unexpected outages or ensuring your home stays warm and cozy, a good inverter generator can be a game-changer. These generators have been tried and tested by Consumer Reports, so you...
There’s a special kind of sinking feeling that comes with spotting a pest in your home. Trust me, I’ve been there. One minute you’re enjoying a movie night with the kids, and the next, you’re eyeing a mouse darting under the couch. As a husband and dad, it’s my job to keep the home front...
If you’re the go-to fixer-upper in your family, always on the lookout for the next project or repair, you know the value of a good deal and the right tools. That’s where Costco comes into play. This wholesale giant isn’t just for bulk buys; it’s a treasure trove for DIYers looking to step up their...
Mice in the kitchen? Yeah, been there. As the unofficial handyman of the house and a dad constantly trying to keep the place in check, I’ve had my battles with these sneaky little intruders. Let me tell you, nothing kicks you into high gear like spotting a mouse near your morning coffee! Over the years,...
As a family handyman with plenty of time clocked in behind the bathroom tiles and under kitchen sinks, I’ve picked up a few tricks and truths about plumbing that can save you money and time. Over the years, I’ve learned that there are certain things most plumbers won’t tell you unless you ask—or unless you’re...
Tiling might seem straightforward, but I’ve learned firsthand that small mistakes can lead to big headaches. After years of weekend projects around the house, tackling everything from fixing faucets to building playsets, I’ve come to appreciate the tricks of the trade that make a difference. Tiling is one of those skills that requires an eye...
As a dad and the unofficial handyman around our house, I’ve learned that the way we use our home appliances can make a big difference in how long they last. We all want to get the most out of our household helpers, whether it’s the trusty fridge that keeps our family’s food fresh or the...
As a husband, dad, and the unofficial family handyman, I’ve become quite familiar with the quirks of home maintenance, especially when it comes to plumbing. Through trial, error, and a few calls to the plumber, I’ve made a list of culprits that can wreak havoc on your home’s drainage system. Some of these might surprise...
November’s chill means it’s time to button up the house for winter. As a husband and dad, this month transforms me into the family handyman, focused on tuning up our home to handle the cold months ahead. There’s a real peace of mind in knowing that our family space is nice and secure, especially when...
Juggling life as a dad and husband means my car often doubles as a family hauler and occasionally, a makeshift storage space. But I’ve learned the hard way that some things just don’t belong in there. From a rogue lighter that nearly gave us all a scare to the snack stash that turned into a...
Stepping into your first home is exciting, but it also comes with a whole new set of responsibilities—especially outside. If you’re like me, you might not have realized just how much goes into keeping the exterior of your home in shape. Proper maintenance prevents pricey problems and keeps your place safe and sound. Whether it’s...
Let’s be real, my garage is more than just a place to park the car—it’s my sanctuary. But there’s nothing worse than stepping into a cluttered mess, especially when I can’t find my tools or trip over random junk. I feel like I can’t function in a junky space, and I imagine you’ve felt the...
As the go-to handyman of the house, I’ve learned that appliance mishaps are just part of the deal when you’ve got a home to keep up. Whether it’s the microwave that’s suddenly silent or the dishwasher leaving dishes dirty, these machines have their moments. But before you think about calling in the pros and watching...
If you’re like me, you’ve probably used extension cords for everything from stringing up the Christmas lights to turning the garage into a workshop. They’re our go-to solution when the nearest outlet is just a bit too far. But as handy as these cords are, they come with their own set of rules to keep...
When you own a home, it’s like signing up to be the go-to fixer for everything from leaky faucets to assembling the endless parade of playsets and furniture. No matter if your place is brand new or has some miles on it, sooner or later, you’re going to need to roll up your sleeves. Having...
Hardwood floors are great, but boy, do they need some TLC to stay that way. As the go-to handyman in my family, I’ve learned the hard way that these beautiful floors can be pretty high maintenance. They’re expensive to install and even pricier to fix. So, to save you some of that headache—and a hit...
As the family handyman, I’ve spent more than my fair share of time walking the aisles of home improvement stores. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks and learned some hard lessons about what to buy and, more importantly, what not to buy. From overpriced cleaning products to appliances that don’t measure up,...
Winter always brings its share of challenges, and with a pregnant wife at home, making sure our paths are clear of ice and snow is more than just a chore—it’s crucial for her safety. I’ve tried everything from high-tech gadgets to old-school tricks to keep our walkways safe. After much trial and error, I’ve narrowed...
Fall is prime time for getting your lawn in top shape—trust me, a bit of elbow grease now means a lush, green payoff when spring rolls around. If you’re like me, your yard isn’t just a plot of grass; it’s a point of pride, a weekend project that pays dividends in curb appeal and personal...
Sometimes, the things you throw away really shouldn’t have been thrown away like that. You know how it goes—you finish a project or clean out a drawer, and into the trash it all goes. But wait. There are a few reasons why chucking certain things into the bin isn’t the best move. From old batteries...
Winter’s on its way, and with it, those dreaded spikes in heating bills. As someone who takes pride in keeping both my yard and my home in top shape, I know how important it is to keep the cold out without spending a fortune. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure...
Water that stinks isn’t just a nuisance—it can be a real head-scratcher. As a dad and a bit of a handyman around the house, I’ve definitely had my fair share of “What is that smell?” moments when turning on the tap. Trust me, nothing speeds up your learning about home maintenance quite like a stinky...
As a mom gearing up for the bustling holiday season, I’ve learned an important November lesson the hard way: stock up early or risk the holiday scramble. Every year, it seems like I’m sprinting through grocery store aisles last-minute because I forgot to grab the essentials before they flew off the shelves. From snagging the...
There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling you get when your key fob dies—especially on a scorching Texas day with the sun beating down and nowhere to hide from the heat. Suddenly, you’re locked out, your car’s becoming an oven, and you’re sweating both from the heat and the frustration. I’ve been there, and it’s...
I get it, a patchy yard is no fun. You work hard to keep your place looking good, only to have bare spots throw off your whole lawn game. It’s annoying. So, like any good weekend warrior, I dove into figuring out how to fix it fast. I’ve tried a bunch of different grass seeds...
I’ve made just about every lawn care mistake in the book, and I’m here to tell you, it’s not as easy as it looks to keep that grass green and lush. From misguided watering techniques to the wrong choice in grass, I’ve learned some tough lessons that have left parts of my lawn looking less...
Dipping your toes into electrical work might seem like a great way to flex your DIY muscles, but even a small slip can lead to big issues. You know how it goes—you start out thinking it’s just a quick fix and before you know it, your house is on fire. Professional electricians have a few...
As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, your car needs a bit more TLC to tackle the cold effectively. Prepping your vehicle for winter isn’t just about staying on the road, it’s about ensuring safety, comfort, and reliability when you need it most. From ensuring your lights cut through the dark, early nights to...
As the chill sets in, you have to make sure your car is as ready for the winter as you are. Dealing with a car that isn’t winter-ready can quickly turn a simple drive into a pretty big headache -or worse. From making sure your heater is blasting warm air to checking that your oil...
Tired of mosquitoes buzzing around your backyard? You’re not alone. These pesky insects aren’t just annoying, they can also be a health hazard, spreading diseases like Zika and West Nile virus. No thanks! But nature has a solution—several, actually! These are 8 animals and insects that feast on mosquitoes. Even more, we’ve even laid out...
Electrical fires are a silent threat lurking in the corners of many homes, often where you least expect them. These hazards don’t always announce themselves with smoke or sparks. Instead, they might hide behind the convenience of modern living, from the extension cords stretched too far to the light fixtures fitted with the wrong bulbs....
You’ve got the skills and the drive to tackle that never-ending honey-do list around your house—like refinishing those floors or fixing that annoying leak. But before you swing that hammer, let’s talk about the legal side of DIY for a second. Not all home projects are just a matter of skill and elbow grease. Some...
Pressure washers are a fantastic tool for blasting away stubborn dirt and grime around your home. They can make cleaning your driveway, patio, or siding feel almost effortless. But as powerful as they are, they’re not suitable for every job. In fact, there are some things you should never aim a pressure washer at unless...
Dealing with plumbing issues at home can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure how to fix them. Having worked in a city water department for six years, I’ve seen just about every plumbing problem there is, from annoying leaks to major pipe bursts. I’ve also picked up plenty of expert advice along the way...
Life behind the wheel comes with its fair share of headaches—scratches that magically appear, windows that won’t defog, and that darn loose gas cap. But what if you could fix some of these annoyances with stuff you’ve got lying around the house? We’ve put together 15 car hacks that are not only easy to pull...
Winter mornings can really test your patience, can’t they? You’re rushing to start your day but instead, you’re stuck dealing with a car that’s as frozen as an ice cube. Trust me, I’ve been there—scraping ice off the windshield in the bitter cold, dealing with fogged-up windows, and tires that just won’t grip. But over...
Winter is tough enough without having to bundle up just to grab a screwdriver from your garage. If you’re tired of starting your projects with a shiver, it’s time to rethink how you heat your garage. We’ve looked to the experts at Bob Vila for 10 effective ways to keep your workspace warm, no matter...
Grilling is one of those great summer pleasures that almost feels like a rite of passage. There’s something about firing up that grill and cooking outdoors that just brings people together. But let’s be honest, as much as we all love to channel our inner grill master, there are a few slip-ups that can easily...
When autumn rolls in and the trees start shedding, it feels like overnight your yard turns into a leaf carpet. And if you’re like me, the thought of spending your weekend raking and bagging isn’t exactly appealing. But don’t worry, I’ve been through enough leaf-filled autumns to pick up a few tricks that make this...
I hate to say it, but you’re probably spending more on car repairs than you need to. We’re here to tackle those car maintenance myths that are draining your wallet. Forget about the unnecessary 3,000-mile oil changes and the overpriced coolant flushes. These are all the services you can skip so you can keep your...
When it comes to taking care of your car, there’s no shortage of products promising to make your ride smoother, shinier, and more impressive. But not every product that glitters is gold for your vehicle. In fact, some of the most popular car care items on the market might be doing more harm than good....
Let’s be honest, gardening is great, but wrestling with weeds every weekend? Not so much. If you’re shooting for an easier, lush garden, think about rolling out some ground covers. These plants are the ultimate helpers—seriously cutting down your weeding time. They’re also tough as anything, thriving in tough spots where other plants might throw...
Let’s face it, tires aren’t the first thing on your mind when you jump into your car, but they are crucial for keeping you safe on the road. Tires wear down, and letting them go too long can lead to risky situations or even a total blowout. Whether you’re commuting to work or getting ready...
Mowing the lawn seems pretty easy, right? Well, there are a few slip-ups that can turn your lush green into a weed wonderland. We’re here to break down 10 easy-to-make mowing mistakes that might be tripping you up. From the best time to mow to handling those clippings, getting these right can mean the difference...
The right choice of wood can make all the difference for a nice, cozy fire. While it might be tempting to burn whatever wood is around, some types of wood can actully be harmful when burned. Certain woods can release toxins and damage both air quality and your fireplace. Today, we’re taking a look at...
Whether you’re hauling gear across the country or just looking to beef up your daily driver, these 14 cool inventions are definitely goin to make your driving experience better. From rugged bed covers to high-tech security cameras, each of these upgrades brings something new and extremely helpful to the table, making your truck not only...
Tires do a lot more than just roll your car along—they grip the road to keep you safe during sudden stops, soften bumps along the way, and steer you in the right direction. Given all they do, it’s important to have tires you can count on. But here’s the thing: reliable tires don’t have to...
Let’s be honest, riding a motorcycle is exciting, but some bikes are seriously scary. I’ve come across a few that I wouldn’t even think of letting my kids near. These aren’t your average motorcycles. They’re incredibly powerful, tricky to handle, and they really get your heart pumping. Today, I’m sharing a list of 13 motorcycles...
Choosing the right car battery can feel like a bit of a gamble. Will it last? Is it worth the price? To help you out, we’ve put together a list, ranking 8 major battery brands from best to worst. In making our list, we gathered data from real user feedback, tests, and read through loads...
Owning a car is a major convenience, but it comes with its fair share of expenses -hello flat tires. On the birght side, there are numerous ways to keep these costs in check without sacrificing the health and efficiency of your vehicle. Here are 21 things you can do today to save money on your...
Looking for a quiet and efficient inverter generator? You’re in the right place! We’ve teamed up with the experts at Bob Vila and The Family Handyman to bring you the inside scoop on the best generators out there. Bob Vila’s team tested eight top sellers to find out which ones really deliver. Plus, we got...
Let’s take a closer look at Lexus, a brand that’s pretty much known for luxury. You probably know its sleek designs from the streets or the big screen, but there’s more to this brand than meets the eye. From rolling out the world’s first luxury hybrid to making appearances in pop culture, Lexus has some...
When you’re on the hunt for a new car battery, you want something reliable, durable, and worth every penny. The last thing you want is to waste money on something that can’t keep up. We’ve taken a look at data from Consumer Reports and auto reviews to help you know which batteries not to choose....
Let’s be honest, stopping at the gas station is often just a routine part of our day. But it’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you money or even damage your car. Ever put unleaded gas in your diesel truck by mistake? Or driven off with the gas pump still attached? You’d be surprised...
Looking to upgrade your water heater but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. To help homeowners like you make the best choice, The Family Handyman recently asked plumbers and HVAC technicians across the country for their top recommendations. Their advice gives us a pretty clear picture of which brands are reliable, save on...
When you’re shopping for a used car, it’s crucial to look beyond the initial price tag and consider the long-term costs and reliability. Some models, while great at first glance, are notorious for ongoing issues that can turn them into financial sinkholes. From persistent engine problems to inadequate safety features, these cars might seem like...
We’ve all made those quick stops at a gas station, whether to fuel up the car or ourselves. But while they’re great for a fill-up or a quick snack, not everything on the shelves is a good buy. In fact, some items are best avoided altogether, no matter how convenient they seem. From overpriced bottled...
When it comes to keeping your car in tip-top shape, choosing the right motor oil can make all the difference. Whether you’re clocking daily miles on the commute or gearing up for some serious road tripping, the life of your engine heavily depends on the lubrication coursing through its veins. We’ve done the research for...
Ready to hit the great outdoors? Awesome! Camping’s great for relaxing and soaking in some nature, but there’s a bit of campground etiquette that goes a long way. Whether you’re a camping pro or just starting out, we’ve all had those “oops” moments. So, before you pack up your tent and marshmallows, let’s go over...
Maintaining your car’s longevity is all about proactive care. While you might leave the big-ticket maintenance items to the professionals, there are essential checks you can easily handle every 1,000 to 3,000 miles. These regular checks are designed to catch issues early. By staying vigilant with these simple routines, you’ll keep your car running smoothly...
Towing a trailer can feel like you’ve got the whole house hitched to your vehicle—literally. Whether it’s a boat for that weekend getaway, a camper for a family road trip, or just hauling your stuff from point A to point B, adding that extra weight to your ride brings a whole new set of challenges...
It’s 1955, and if you’re looking for an all-American luxury car, the Ford Thunderbird stands out. More than just a muscle car, the Thunderbird was Ford’s answer to the luxury grand-tourer market. Over the years, it became a symbol of American style and performance, though it eventually faded out in 2005. We’ve ranked the best...
Ever feel like your daily drive is more of a battle than a commute? You’re not alone. Some states just seem to have it out for drivers, with everything from pothole-riddled roads to sky-high gas prices. Wondering if your state is one of the rough ones? WalletHub’s latest study dives into the driving conditions across...
Caring for your car can be a real challenge, especially when you’re up against nature’s elements. Areas like the Rust Belt—spanning parts of the Northeastern and Midwestern U.S.—are notorious for speeding up the rusting process of cars due to high moisture and road salt usage. Rust can severely damage vital components like body panels and...
I, like you, know how easy it is to get caught up in the whirlwind of shiny new appliances. They’re cool, they save us some time, and they make us look like we have a little more money in our wallets than we actually do. But is it worth it? Some appliances, while helpful, are...
Heading out into the great outdoors for some camping can be the perfect way to unwind and make some memories. But even the most seasoned campers can run into hiccups if they’re not careful. Camping, while fun, requires quite a bit of planning. If you aren’t careful, you might find yourself in a world of...
Heading into a car dealership can be pretty stressful—especially when it comes to dodging all of the extra products they try to tack on to your purchase. These add-ons are often pitched as ‘must-haves’ to protect your shiny new ride. But let’s cut through the sales pitch: many of these products are simply not worth...
It’s a bit of a letdown that when you get the keys to your new home, they don’t come with a manual. No quick-start guide, no troubleshooting tips—just you and your new house, trying to figure out what switch does what. But that’s where I come in! Consider this your go-to guide for those “Now...
Keeping your lawn green and gorgeous can feel like a full-time job, especially when you’re not sure what you might be doing wrong. But sometimes, the secret to a better lawn is less about what you should do, and more about what you shouldn’t. Here are 15 common slip-ups that could be sabotaging your lawn’s...
Stopping at the gas station is something we all do, but it’s easy to forget just how risky it can be if we’re not careful. Most of us know better than to smoke or play with our phones while filling up, but there are plenty of other safety tips that slip under the radar. These...
Thinking about swapping out your natural lawn for artificial grass? It’s tempting to imagine a lush, green yard without the constant mowing and watering. Here in Texas, having a green yard is just about impossible in the summer heat. Before you make the leap, there are a few things you might want to consider. From...
