This October, the Home Improvement and Repairs team will be returning to Las Vegas, Nevada, for the National Hardware Show, which is the largest event serving Hardware and Home Improvement in 2021. The NHS is an enormous trade show where tool and equipment companies unveil the new products that will soon stock the aisles of your local hardware store. We’ll be there to get the big scoop, but in the meantime, here’s a sneak peek at just a few of the highlights to be exhibited. Timber-Link Timber-Link offers a unique way to customize wooden slabs and make furniture-building something anyone can do! By simply gluing and fastening the pre-drilled boards together consumers can create so many different projects including tables, desks, benches, headboards, counters and more. You can select edge pieces that feature a live edge and square center pieces to create your projects. Or just use one or the other; the choice is yours. Stand W1009. Visit www.liveedgetimber.com. Aspen Smart Window Fan The Aspen Smart Window Fan is WiFi connected with removable and washable fan covers and blades. It offers optional scheduling functions and speeds from your smartphone or with voice control through Aspen Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Stand W4040. Visit www.aspenapplianceinc.com. Forney 220 MP Welder The Forney 220 MP welder brings multi-process welding to the next level. Ideal for anything from do-it-yourself projects to light industrial work. Processes: MIG, TIG, Stick, Flux-Core. Welding Capacity: Up to 1/2”. This is a dual voltage machine (110-120V / 208-240V) with a digital display and all-metal drive system. Stand W1001. Visit www.forneyind.com. Summit Mosquito Solutions Mosquitoes are brutal down south in HIR country. To combat the pests, Summit Chemical supplies the #1 selling mosquito larvacide product—Mosquito Dunks. Trusted by consumers for over 30 years, they are the safe and effective way to control mosquitoes in any standing water. Summit provides responsible solutions for mosquito, tick, garden insect, and pond problems with top-selling products. Stand W3727. Visit summitchemical.com. . WallpaperBuddy WallpaperBuddy is a brand new, affordable, simple-to-use tool to make wallpapering easy. Research shows that 52% of millennials don't know how to hang wallpaper and 80% of people who have no experience hanging wallpaper said a wallpapering aid aimed at DIY novices would inspire them to try the project. WallpaperBuddy is a patent-pending tool, meticulously designed to help DIY novices to hang wallpaper. Stand W2215C. Visit www.wallpaperbuddy.com. Beagle Tools Wheelbarrows Beagle Tools sells wheelbarrows and hand trucks featuring patented flat rib flat-free tires. Beagle manufactured the popular Jeep line of wheelbarrows. The company’s new Aeroframe series, four years in development, features fewer fasteners and quick 1-2 minute assembly times. They are the company’s lightest fully loaded wheelbarrows, and you will feel the difference immediately. The entire line is ergonomic and well balanced, and select models are now available. Stand W3434. Visit www.beagletools.com. NeverMeasure NeverMeasure is designed to simplify hanging just about anything. With auto centering and other integrated features, NeverMeasure can handle everything from artwork collages to household fixtures. As seen on the Today Show, The Morning Blend, Moms Everyday as well as on House Smarts radio, the NeverMeasure picture-hanging tool was created to allow anyone, regardless of skill level, to hang their pictures and projects easily and properly without damaging walls and wasting money and time. Stand W1710. Visit www.nevermeasure.com. TecXtra Smart Car Battery Charger 5-amp 6V/12V The TecXtra battery charger from C.M.C. USA Corp. features an intelligent microprocessor control and diagnostics program. The charging process is fully automatic, and you can choose from four different charging modes. It offers pulse loading and trickle charging, and dual-layer PCB board technology equipped with a digital illuminated screen. Stand W1733. Visit www.tecxtratools.com. The DOT, Magnetic Stud Finder The DOT is a brand-new type of stud finder in that it combines the accuracy of traditional magnetic stud finders with the ease of use of electronic models. Just scan and listen. Anyone from experienced contractors to novice DIYers can accurately locate a stud behind any wall type (including plaster) in seconds. No more batteries, calibration, false positives, expensive price, or frustrating process of "feeling" the magnetic pull. Just pure ease of use. Stand W2515D. Visit www.chiptoolz.com. Drain Buddy Ultra Flo The Drain Buddy Ultra Flo patented 2-in-1 hair catcher and drain stoppers for sinks, tubs and baths require no installation, so they are simple and easy to use for any customer. Stand W536. Visit www.drainstrain.com. Full Protection Post Protectors The 3˝ tall Full & Mailbox Post Protector comes in a variety of sizes and colors. It’s sold in pairs and comes with four matching screws for a clean, finished look. Made with American steel, and manufactured entirely in North America, Full Protection offers sizes starting at 3.00˝ x 3.00˝ up to 8.00˝ x 8.00˝, along with the more commonly used nominal sizes, 6x6 and 4x4 wooden posts, all of which are designed to fit square and rectangular posts alike. Stand W3115. Visit fencearmor.com. Red Dragon Premium Torch Kit The Red Dragon Vapor Torch Kit includes everything necessary to operate except the propane tank. Each propane torch kit features rugged, all steel construction and is designed to operate on propane vapor only. The Red Dragon Vapor Torch Kits are made in the U.S.A. and are CSA-certified for safety and performance in the U.S. and Canada. Stand W4130. Visit www.FlameEngineering.com. Chalk-Tique Chalk-Tique turns any water-based paint into a durable matte finish that can be easily distressed and waxed to create an antique look. Adds new life to any worn-out or antique furniture. It gives paint a thick creamy chalk-style texture that covers easily and allows for minimal prep work. The finish is easy to distress (once the paint is dry) with sandpaper and Chalk-Tique Paste Wax for a rustic antique look. Use with any paint color of your choosing to create a truly unique look. Stand W929. Visit www.howardproducts.com. FrogTape Pro Grade Painter's Tape FrogTape brand offers premium-quality painting tapes that ensure professional results for any painting project, whether professional or DIY. The brand’s Multi-Surface, Delicate Surface and Pro Grade Blue formulations feature patented PaintBlock Technology, a super-absorbent polymer that seals the edges of the tape to keep paint out and lines sharp. FrogTape, the brand pros rate #1 for sharp paint lines with no paint bleed, is marketed by Shurtape Technologies, LLC. Stand W807. Visit www.frogtape.com. Johnson Self-Leveling 3x360° Laser with GreenBrite Johnson's ultra-bright green beam laser projects three self-leveling 360° planes of laser light for total jobsite coverage up to 200 feet. This laser offers three green beams – one horizontal and two vertical for one-person alignment, leveling and layout using one tool. Robust construction withstands tough jobsite conditions and provides resistance to dust and water. It also features a pulse mode for use with a separate detector in bright light or outdoor conditions where beams are not visible. Stand W1717. Visit www.johnsonlevel.com. RotoShovel Max RotoShovel Max is the world's first battery powered electric auger. It’s a powerful earth auger with smooth operation and a safety shutoff to prevent kick back. Operated from a rechargeable, 36V LI-ION battery, it’s designed for residential or commercial landscaping projects! Stand W3449. Visit www.rotoshovel.com. Wall-EZ Drywall Repair Kit (WEK2) A “must have” for anyone looking to have a completely flat surface after repair, the Wall-EZ Drywall Repair Kit includes two drywall plugs, a pilot drill and a tapered hole saw. Restore structural integrity within minutes. The kit is made in the USA. Stand W814. Visit allwaytools.com. Armadillo Tough Cabinets Assembles in minutes. Lasts a lifetime. Armadillo Tough workshop and tool cabinets were designed to be easily set up by you with no need to sacrifice a weekend or pay for a professional. Spend less time assembling and more time organizing. Armadillo Tough comes with everything you need to assemble the cabinets right out of the box. While most of the cabinets require no-tool assembly, should you need a tool, it is supplied right in the box. Get creative, mix and match various cabinets to make the best storage solution for you. Each cabinet is rigorously tested and backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Stand W1501. Visit armadillotough.com. #NHS2021 #NationalHardwareShow #NationalHardwareShow2021 #NHS #NHSconnects

The Peerless brand’s new Precept Single-Handle Commercial Kitchen Faucet adds a sleek, modern touch at an affordable price. It's available in stainless, chrome or matte black finishes, and the three-function, pull-down sprayer features PowerRinse mode for extra cleaning force. When it comes to installation, the new Precept Faucet from Peerless is the easiest model the HIR team has ever worked with, which will be nice for tradesmen and DIY’ers. The integrated supply lines slip right through the faucet hole on the counter. Just finger-thread the lock-nut onto the faucet from beneath the countertop, then tighten it with a screwdriver (brilliant!) rather than a wrench. Connect the supply lines, and that’s basically all there is to it. Installing with a screwdriver is so much easier in the cramped space than using wrench under the faucet, because you rarely have enough clearance for a full turn of the wrench handle. This new method is quicker and easier. On the installation shown, we included a deck plate (aka escutcheon) to cover the old countertop holes from a three-hole faucet. Learn more at www.peerlessfaucet.com. The water supply lines are pre-attached to the faucet. Slip the lines and the faucet right through the mounting hole on the countertop. Finger-thread the lock-nut onto the faucet shaft from below, then tighten with a screwdriver. Connect the water lines. Screw on the faucet head. Demonstration video:

Hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires – oh my! It's hard to deny that recent weather patterns in North America have posed some major challenges to homes and communities. In response, the new free Buyer's Guide to Resilient Homes provides a framework for homebuyers, homeowners, and even renters to see how they can protect their homes against these types of perils. This free comprehensive guide offers resilience and disaster-preparedness checklists for people to include in their home search process, questions you can ask your realtor, things you can do to your current home to make it disaster-resilient, etc. The Buyer's Guide to Resilient Homes is published by FLASH (Federal Alliance for Safe Homes), a disaster-preparedness organization that has spent the last 20+ years working in the background to help people prepare their homes for perils like hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, etc. in an effort to save their homes and lives. Learn more by visiting the site, where you can simply click on your disaster of concern to find a list of recommended retrofit improvements to help you prepare for the worst.

(guest post courtesy Maureen Murray) With more than three decades of experience in HVAC and plumbing, Jeff Kleman, owner of M&R Plumbing, Inc. of Bluffton, OH is a heat pump and air conditioning unit installation expert. In operation for more than 57 years, Kleman and his technicians have seen it all -- from emergency plumbing repairs to air conditioning replacements. Always looking for ways to increase efficiency and customer satisfaction, Kleman is constantly on the lookout for innovative solutions to increase indoor comfort for his customers and increase jobsite efficiencies. “Our goal is to offer affordable, energy efficient, versatile equipment to make our customer’s homes and businesses more comfortable,” he said. Seeking to make installation easier while meeting the needs of his customers, Kleman discovered the LYNX™ 18 SEER Inverter Heat Pump. A highly adaptable, AHRI-rated system, the LYNX 18 offers compatibility with a wide range of existing indoor equipment. Manufactured by Allied Air Enterprises, a Lennox International Inc. Company, for its Ducane™, Concord® and Allied™ brands, the high-performance heat pump offered the balance of performance and affordability Kleman was looking for. “On a recent residential job, we needed to do a performance upgrade, replacing the air conditioner condenser and installing the new heat pump system on the existing furnace,” said Kleman. “We were able to work with the equipment we had without the need to change or retrofit anything to install the LYNX 18 heat pump, it was super easy.” Unlike traditional units, the LYNX 18 is powered by intelligent algorithms instead of pricey, proprietary thermostats and features a simplified piping system to reduce installation time and virtually eliminate operational complexities and potential leaks. Offering the capability to replace a variety of heat pumps and air conditioner condensers, the unit offers a solution for improving customer satisfaction and reducing inventory complexity with fewer SKUs. “LYNX 18 is compatible with any conventional thermostat; the unit offers easier installation with familiar equipment, without hours of training, so we can get the done right and move on to the next,” said Kleman. Capable of operating in three unique modes, the unit can dial in the perfect balance of comfort and efficiency to increase energy savings by up to 22% annually compared to conventional 14 SEER single-stage heat pumps. “As an 18 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) heat pump, the LYNX 18 is a nice unit because it can replace some of the old heat pumps that might be 13, 14 or 16 SEER,” explained Kleman. “It’s an efficient workhorse unit with the versatility to install in a lot of applications and save everyone some money.” Featuring QuickLink™ Inverter Technology, the LYNX 18 delivers enhanced homeowner comfort with consistent dehumidification and temperature levels. The system’s self-regulating technology eliminates the need for manual adjustments, allowing the unit to quickly sync with indoor equipment. “The QuickLink technology does a really good job of modulating and bringing the temperatures up and down as it needs to for the load that's required,” said Kleman. “So, when you have that QuickLink control in there that will help keep everything more stable in the house and keep the best efficiency on the job site.” To further enhance customer comfort, the unit includes Quiet Shift™ Technology and a sound-isolating compressor mount to reduce noise levels to as low as 60 dBA, ideal for replacements or installations near porches and windows. “It’s very quiet compared to a lot of other units,” explained Kleman. “On this replacement job, it’s installed right beside a bedroom window and you cannot hear a thing.” The LYNX 18 also includes Ominguard® Total Corrosion Protection Technology and a factory-installed Suction Line Filter Drier that help extend the unit’s life for lasting indoor comfort. The unit’s Clean Sweep Defrost technology reduces the number of defrost cycles needed for further efficiency. “The LYNX 18 is now heating this home very well and is great for cooling applications, even when running at lower speeds it’s going to take out more moisture,” said Kleman. “Being a multi-ton unit that you can easily retrofit for different sized applications, the LYNX 18 is a reliable and versatile unit to keep on hand.” For more information on the new LYNX™ 18 Inverter Heat Pump and Allied Air Enterprises’ complete line of leading heating and cooling solutions, visit www.alliedair.com.

(guest post courtesy of Margaret Rogalski) Although the world is a giant mess, so many of our problems—from resource wars to climate destabilization—could be solved if we had a low-cost, plentiful, and green source of energy. Photovoltaic devices (i.e., solar panels) have come down so far in cost that if you build the system yourself, it is likely to be the least expensive electricity available, no matter where you live. Building your own solar devices is easier and cheaper than you’d expect: it will generally save you at least half of the cost of equipment and installation from a reputable company. To Catch the Sun – a free open access e-book by Dr. Joshua M. Pearce, available in English and Spanish – teaches readers how to build their own solar energy systems to power homes, electronic and medical devices, glamping setups, emergency uses, and so much more. The book includes: Real life stories of building solar power Technical details: Straightforward descriptions of solar components and diagrams of systems, replete with real examples (many from the systems described in the stories). Math and science: Easy-to-follow math that allows readers to size small photovoltaic systems for all types of environments and uses. Dr. Joshua M. Pearce is the Thompson Chair in Information Technology and Innovation at the Thompson Centre for Engineering Leadership & Innovation, Ivey Business School and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Western University in Canada. You can download his e-book HERE.

(guest post by Valerie Smith for Sod Solutions) Sod Solutions employees are often asked the question, “When is the best time to lay new sod?” Knowing when to lay sod ensures a beautiful, successful yard. Believe it or not, the most ideal time is either early or mid-fall. Spring is also a great time of year to complete this landscaping project, but due to the fact that grass continues to grow despite the cooler weather in early and mid-fall, fall months win this close battle between spring and fall seasons. Different times of the year may be better depending on where you live, however from a broad perspective, early and mid-fall are usually the best times of the year. You can successfully lay sod in any season, and we’ll explain how here. How to Lay Sod in the Fall Laying sod in the early fall or mid-fall tends to be the best time to lay sod. This is because the temperatures have cooled down from the summer highs and you tend to get more precipitation during these months. There is plenty of time between fall and winter for the sod to root and establish prior to dormancy which means in the winter, your lawn will be healthy, full and easy to green up in the spring. This installation guide is comprehensive and will help you install your lawn appropriately. Here are some key things to aware of when laying sod in the fall: Similar to other times of the year, you’ll want to maintain a healthy watering schedule that keeps the sod moist, but not too wet during the first 14 days of fall. As a general rule, keep the soil moist three inches below the surface when establishing. Be sure to fertilize your lawn to promote healthy rooting and establishment. Sod Solutions recommends the Lawnifi® New Lawn Starter Box for proper lawn nutrition as your sod begins to take root and establish itself before dormancy. How to Lay Sod in the Winter A good number of people, particularly in the south where warm season grasses are grown, believe that laying sod in the winter isn’t possible. People think that either the sod is brown and therefore dead, or that they don’t need to water it—both of those statements are wrong. When laying sod in the winter in the south, the sod can look dormant, but dormancy is just like hibernation—it will be off-color and appear dead, but will regain its color in the spring when temperatures warm up. Similar to all other seasons, water is very important and you will need to dampen the soil prior to laying the sod and continuously water the sod to ensure it stays moist. Learn more about The Benefits of Laying Sod in the Winter or check out our installation guide. Here are some key things to be aware of when laying sod in the winter: Your sod will not green up until the spring. Do not be concerned about this. You will need to continuously water the grass throughout the winter and its dormancy. Cold, dry winds can dry out the roots quickly and cause major issues. It is still beneficial to spray Lawnifi’s New Lawn Starter Box on your lawn while it’s in dormancy. It provides nutrients to help keep your new lawn healthy. How to Lay Sod in the Spring Spring is the second best time to lay sod, and in certain cases (depending on where you live), it can be an even better time to lay sod. You should be sure to follow our installation guide which can be found here. Here are some key things to be aware of when laying sod in the spring: Make sure there are no more opportunities for a freeze before laying new sod. Be sure to keep an eye on weather. You will want to make sure that you keep your sod extra moist to maintain root health—especially if you get an early hot day. Water shadier spots less than the sunnier spots to help reduce disease. Be sure to fertilize your lawn to promote healthy rooting and establishment. Sod Solutions recommends the Lawnifi New Lawn Starter Box for proper lawn nutrition. How to Lay Sod in the Summer Summer is a tough time to lay sod. It is very hot and sometimes drought prone depending on your location. If you need to lay sod in the summer, be ready to water your new lawn very often as a means of maintaining its health. You will want the soil to be damp 3–4 inches below the surface. Water often to make sure of this. Once again, follow the installation guide here and be sure to water your lawn as often as possible. Here are some key things to be aware of when laying sod in the summer: Keep your lawn moist, but do not overwater it—if you do this, it will be susceptible to disease. Water your lawn early in the morning, midday and early afternoon to help make sure it does not dry out. Taper back watering in the shadier spots since these areas are more prone to fungus and disease pressure. Be sure to fertilize your lawn to promote healthy rooting and establishment. Sod Solutions recommends the Lawnifi New Lawn Starter Box for proper lawn nutrition. Lawnifi New Lawn Starter Box The New Lawn Starter Box is designed for newly sodded, seeded or plugged lawns. The box contains three bottles of liquid fertilizer powered by Catalyst Technology to nano-size the nutrients for efficiency and effectiveness. The two bottles of Grow are for improved soil health and the single bottle of Maintain is designed to feed the lawn. The three bottles work together to establish thick, healthy grass. To learn more about the nutrients new grass needs, read When to Fertilize Newly Installed Sod. After the first 30 days of establishment, continue with regular monthly Lawnifi feedings for optimal results during the active growing seasons with the Lawnifi Complete Program 9 Bottle Annual Fertilizer Subscription. The annual subscription includes three seasonal boxes for spring, summer and fall. Overall, you can successfully start a new lawn at any time of the year and hopefully this blog helps you make a decision on when to sod your new lawn for optimal results. Sod can be installed at almost any time of the year. The best time to lay sod, however, is in early and mid-fall when temperatures are cooler but grass continues to grow. Spring is the second best time to lay sod and is the preferable time for warm season grasses such as centipede, zoysia, bermuda and St. Augustine that become dormant in the winter. Avoid installing sod in summer as the extra water required for establishment could result in added disease pressure and increased water bills. Click here to buy lawn supplies online: · BUY PLUGS ONLINE · BUY SOD ONLINE · BUY SOD PODS ONLINE Want to learn more about achieving a great lawn? Check out more Sod University tips here. Editor's Note: Sod Solutions has helped successfully develop and release to the market over 20 different turfgrass varieties over the past 27 years including PalmettoⓇ and CitraBlueⓇ St. Augustine, EMPIREⓇ and InnovationTM Zoysia and CelebrationⓇ, Latitude 36Ⓡ and NorthBridgeⓇ Bermudagrass. The company is based in the Charleston, SC area.

The heat of summer is slowly coming to an end and the cool temperatures of fall are finally among us. When it comes to the beginning of fall, a lot of people may think that this signifies the end of lawn care. Although time spent outside on your lawn may be greatly reduced, the time that takes place between summer and fall is still important for preparing your lawn for winter and next spring. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds is one of the best things you can do for your lawn during this time for weed control in the cooler seasons. Depending on your geographic location, certain annual weeds can continue to grow during the winter. Some of these weeds include Poa annua (also known as annual bluegrass), common chickweed, purple deadnettle and henbit. Annual weeds typically emerge in the fall and winter and continue to grow actively in spring. After they flower in spring and disappear during the summer, they often return again in the fall or winter when seeds germinate. What is a pre-emergent herbicide and what is its purpose? A pre-emergent herbicides, as its name suggests, is a category of herbicides that prevents weeds from appearing in the first place. The difference between a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide is that a pre-emergent herbicide should be applied before a weed grows while a post-emergent herbicide should be applied if you already have weeds in your lawn. The idea behind a pre-emergent is to apply it before weeds have time to germinate from seed. This prevents them from growing during the cooler months and reduces any time or effort spent removing them. Pre-emergents do not kill existing weeds. Instead, they prevent them from appearing in the first place. They work by forming a barrier in the soil that prevents weeds from sprouting or germinating as illustrated in the image below. It can be hard to get rid of weeds once they are already growing, so get ahead of the game by applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall and save yourself time and money—especially if you already know which weeds tend to come around in the winter every year. Photo Credit: Horizon Online. When should I apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall? Although the window for pre-emergent applications varies, it’s best to apply pre-emergent herbicides twice a year, which will be during the spring and fall. In the spring, you’ll want to apply a pre-emergent herbicide before the ground temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. But in the fall, pre-emergents are typically applied between the months of August and November depending on your location. Most of us apply them around the beginning of September. This applies to both warm and cool season grass types. Regardless of where you live, the application window for fall pre-emergents should be when temperatures are below 70 degrees and dropping. It should be noted that a pre-emergent herbicide that is applied before you overseed in the fall will keep your seed from germinating. Your common pre-emergents will kill the seed that you put down 100 percent of the time. You can read more about overseeding in the fall in How to Keep Your Lawn Green During the Winter or by visiting our Grass Seed Planting Guide. Which pre-emergent herbicide should I use? When it comes to selecting a pre-emergent herbicide, choices can be daunting. Narrow down the selection process by looking for an herbicide that works on the type of weed you’ve seen in previous years and for your type of grass. Most herbicides will say on the back of the product which grasses they can and shouldn’t be used on as well as which weeds they will kill. Once you have simplified your choices of herbicides, the last thing to choose between may be a granule vs. a liquid herbicide. Liquid herbicides are usually mixed with water in a tank and then sprayed. These should be mixed in accordance to the product label instructions. Granular, or dry herbicides, are small pellets coated with herbicides that can be applied with a broadcast or drop spreader at the rate specified on the product label. Either choice of granular or liquid herbicides will perform well on your lawn. The most important thing to look for is that it kills the weeds you usually encounter during this time of year and that it works with your type of grass. A few of the best pre-emergent herbicides include Crabgrass Control Plus 0-0-7 with 0.37% Prodiamine, Tenacity Herbicide, Prodiamine 65 WDG and Dimension 2 EW. Be sure to read product labels thoroughly before application. View a product comparison in the online version of this article online here. Although fertilizer isn’t going to help kill your weeds, a good fertilizer program will help your lawn stay healthy and thick so that it chokes them out. Be sure to check out the LawnifiTM Fall Fertilizer Box and Lawnifi Foundation to help give your lawn the nutrition it needs this fall. Lawnifi is a fertilizer program powered by Catalyst TechnologyTM that matches seasonal changes with combined fertilizer boxes for spring, summer and fall. The Fall Fertilizer Box contains one bottle of Boost, Maintain and Recover, which work together to help your lawn get over the stressful heat of the summer as well as prepare for winter dormancy. To learn more about Lawnifi, visit Why Use Lawnifi Fertilizer?. If you are interested in being able to recognize and name weeds, or to understand the difference between grassy and broadleaf weeds, read our Identifying Common Lawn Weeds blog. Check out more Sod University tips for achieving a great lawn here. Editor's Note: Sod Solutions has helped successfully develop and release to the market over 20 different turfgrass varieties over the past 27 years including PalmettoⓇ and CitraBlueⓇ St. Augustine, EMPIREⓇ and InnovationTM Zoysia and CelebrationⓇ, Latitude 36Ⓡ and NorthBridgeⓇ Bermudagrass. The company is based in the Charleston, SC area.

DIY'ers might appreciate the simplicity of the cuts and assembly when installing Craftsman style trim, because it eliminates miter joints and complicated angles in favor of straight 90-degree cuts and square dimensional boards. Craftsman style carpentry originally emphasized simpler, hand-crafted trim made by skilled craftsmen from local wood. As a rebellion to the industrialization of the late 1800s, the craftsman style focused on the materials rather than fancy shapes. Therefore the trim pieces are usually flat, but different sizes are used to provide variety and dimensional detail. This simpler style makes a more natural transition to rustic interiors than the more formal neo-classical or Victorian trim styles with their elaborate fluted columns, beads and dentil patterns. Make a Plan To my knowledge, there is no rule-book to guide your trim design. It’s up to you to create your plan according to your taste and preference. In this case, I had installed a nice new Weather Shield Premium Series Double-Hung Window in a kitchen. It needed a little dressing up, and craftsman style trim would work best for the space, which was otherwise decorated with rustic or industrial-style decor. On the interior side of the window, I wanted a double-layer head cap, which I think is a cool “regal” look without appearing too highfalutin. I started with that idea, then decided the smaller of the two cap layers would look good as a horizontal accent at the top and bottom of the window, providing depth and shadow lines. I sketched the design on paper, and since I was working with 1x boards which measure 3/4-in. thick, I decided to use a 3/4-in. reveal between all the trim layers. I purchased boards in various widths that would achieve this 3/4-in. reveal, as you can see labeled in the photo. That’s basically all there was to my plan. Quick Tips Sketch your design on paper. Keep the casing design symmetrical, with the widest trim pieces situated at the top of the window. Boards mounted flat against the wall can be made of MDF but the boards installed parallel to the floor, such as the window stool, should be made of a more durable solid wood because they will project into the room and be more susceptible to impact. Paint and assemble as many of the trim components as possible prior to installation. Reduce touch-up work by relying more on glue and less on fasteners. Fill all fastener holes with vinyl spackling but fill all joints and seams with a flexible, paintable caulk/sealant. Installation Basics I pre-assembled the 2-piece head cap using wood glue and countersunk screws. I did the same to make the 2-piece apron from 1x2 and 1x4. I leveled the window apron and fastened it flush with the bottom of the window using 2-1/2" finish nails. Next, I added the 1x4 verticals. Keep a close eye on the reveal between the trim pieces and the window so everything matches all the way around. To firmly attach the 1x2s, I countersunk a few 2-1/2" self-drilling Fine Screws from U2 Fasteners. The small head of these trim screws makes it easy to conceal with spackling. The final 1x3 makes its appearance. I attached the pre-assembled head cap with more Fine Screws. For paint-grade projects, finish up by spackling all fastener holes, but use a flexible, paintable caulk to seal the joints and seams between boards. Complete the project with a little touch-up paint. Take Me to the Other Side The opposite side of this kitchen window opened onto a covered, screened porch. I basically duplicated the same trim style there as on the interior--until I got to the window sill. There, I installed a modified window apron to serve as a drink shelf for folks hanging out on the porch. There's nothing revolutionary about the shelf design, but I did add a nosing strip to ensure drinks didn't slide off. I also used my router to round a bull-nose along the edge of the nosing to prevent injury from anyone bumping into it. I built the shelf just wide enough to hold a beverage and supported it with three 90-deg. triangular brackets. Because it projects into the room and is susceptible to damage from moving furniture, etc., I built the shelf from hardwood--an inch-thick reclaimed cherry stair tread, in fact--which is reason #1,001 why I never throw away quality wood material. The outside of the new window was surrounded by damaged siding from the removal of the old window. Before I began trim installation, I installed "filler boards" in place of the removed siding to build out the material around the window to a flush, even plane on which to install the trim pieces.

Window replacement can be a difficult task for a DIY’er and should probably be left to the pros. I know this because I’ve installed a few windows, and I’m not a pro window installer. “But Matt, this blog post clearly shows photos of you installing a window, so if you can do it, then why shouldn’t I?” I’m not going to make a blanket decree about who should and should not attempt window installation. The insulated Weather-Shield replacement unit shown here looks beautiful, works great, is sealed up tight to conserve energy—and I’m proud of the work I’ve done. Nevertheless, I thought it would be helpful to point out some of the on-site problems an installer is likely to encounter—obstacles and difficulties that won’t be covered in a manufacturer’s installation manual—and which may help you decide whether you’re up to the task, or if you should call a contractor to do the job. On this project, we installed a Weather Shield Premium Series Double-Hung Window, which is an aluminum-clad wood window. The extruded aluminum resists dents, dings and scratches and is backed by Weather Shield’s 20-year limited warranty. It’s finished with commercial-grade premium AAMA 2605 paint that resists fading and chalking. Straight Talk about What to Expect First and foremost, today’s double-pane insulated windows are heavy. The larger they are, the heavier they are, and the more difficult they are to handle. Furthermore, glass is fragile and requires great care when carrying and maneuvering a window through the home and into the rough opening. Installation often requires at least two people. Ladder work may be required. Although replacement windows can usually be installed from inside the house, the old windows might have to be removed from outside the house, which can require dangerous work from atop a ladder. Removal of the old window can be more difficult and time-consuming than you anticipate. Preparation of the rough opening and installation of window casing may require more tools, materials and skills than you expect. The replacement window’s step-by-step installation manual will be critical for any job, because window construction differs among models and manufacturers. However, the manuals generally only provide guidance when installing in “best case scenarios,” without providing solutions to the various construction difficulties that can be revealed once the old window is removed. The manuals tend to make the procedure seem simpler in theory than it actually is in practice, and that’s where pro-grade experience can pay off. Here’s What Happened on This Project I should mention that the project shown is not my first rodeo with windows. A few years ago, I replaced a few units in a brick home, but admittedly I was out of practice for this project. Back then, we replaced single-pane aluminum windows by first removing the sashes then prying the old frames from out of the surrounding brickwork. That was my plan for this project as well. However, when the Big Day arrived, I found the glass sashes of the old window to be locked inside the metal window frame. I tried and tried, but could not figure how to remove the sashes without breaking the glass, which would be a huge, dangerous mess (at a house full of children). To avoid breaking the glass, I opted to pry off the window trim and cut away the wood siding around the metal window frame. Note that I’m already reaching for a powered circular saw to remove the old window—and that’s a tool that is not mentioned in window-installation manuals. Plus, all this siding and trim demolition will require significant repair work. After I chopped away the siding, I pried out the surrounding flange nails then lifted out the old window, sashes and all. Thankfully, this was a ground-level window between a kitchen and screened porch, otherwise I’d need to do all this extra work while clinging to a ladder. Had I known that I would have to cut away the siding from around the window, I could have ordered a new-construction window (with a nailing flange) as a replacement rather than the new pocket-style window which I had on site. (A pro installer might have determined this in advance.) Having a flanged replacement could have simplified this job, because now that the old window was out, I discovered the rough opening was not level and plumb, as required for the pocket window. The sides of the opening flared out toward the bottom and required adjustment. Keep in mind, the entire time the window is out, unconditioned air, dust and allergens are drafting throughout the house. You want to work as quickly as possible, and surprises such as an out-of-square opening don’t help the situation. Prior to installation, I had to fasten exterior window stops (plus shims to square up the perimeter) at the top and sides of the rough opening to prepare for the new window. The “stops” are strips of exterior molding that frame the window and literally stop it from pushing all the way through the wall when you place it inside the opening. I added flashing to the bottom of the window opening. Although the window is covered by a roof, I planned to use the exterior window stool as a beverage shelf, and the flashing adds moisture protection in case of a spill. Always use a roller to press down your flashing tape. I ripped strips of stop molding on my table saw and brad-nailed them to the rough opening. Be sure the stops don't encroach more than 1/2" inside the window frame. That wasn’t the only hurdle. When I test-fitted the window, I found that the bottom of the rough opening was flat, but the bottom of the pocket replacement window was sloped to fit a sloped sill (and shed water away from the house). This was a smart window design, but to support the window, I had to cut a sloped (wedge-shaped) shim to install beneath it and provide lower support. I bevel-cut the sill board on my table saw—which is another tool not mentioned in a window-installation manual and one which not every DIY homeowner will have at their disposal. I also discovered another construction issue: The thickness of the wall was inconsistent from one side of the window to the other. This problem resulted in a 1/4-in. inconsistency with the “reveal,” which refers to the measurement of construction materials that will surround the installed window. In a nutshell, you want the surrounding wall and trim to look the same all the way around the window. Here's the wedge-shaped shim block I added beneath the sloped window bottom. My workaround solution: I installed the window flush with the interior, which simplified trim installation in the kitchen. The screen-porch side of the window was trickier. The window did not sit flush on the exterior side of the wall. So, when repairing the butchered siding with a variety of trim boards (and shims), I was careful to conceal the problem with caulk and carpentry “magic.” I’m a good trim carpenter and a decent magician, but disguising this anomaly in the trim might drive some less experienced DIY’ers absolutely bonkers. So yes, a DIY’er can feasibly install their own window, but most should call a pro. You’ve been warned. Don’t Screw it Up To those ambitious homeowners who might ignore our advice to call and pro and instead charge ahead with a DIY installation: Proceed with caution. Understand that if the window is installed improperly and is not plumb, level, and square, a number of problems might occur. The double-hung or slider sash may be difficult or impossible to remove. A casement sash may not operate properly due to excessive drag on the sill. The sash pivot bar on double-hung windows could bind and cause the sash to become inoperative. Or, the weather-stripping may not seal properly— allowing air and water infiltration, even if the sash is locked. Remember that products vary by design, so all window installers—both professionals and DIY—should always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing their specific units. Installation Tips and Techniques When installing the window, apply high-quality, exterior-grade sealant along the inner edge of the exterior stop molding. Liberally apply three beads of sealant to the window sill, and at the bottom corners of the rough opening. Your replacement window has to be level, plumb, and square, otherwise it won’t open or close properly, and air and water could infiltrate around the edges. Check both sides for plumb and the bottom for level. To check for square, measure both window diagonals from corner to corner to make sure they match. Adjustment can be made with shims, which should be installed at all anchor points and anywhere necessary to keep the unit correctly in place. Inflatable Air Shims helped to adjust the window's fit during installation. Just slip them between the window and house frame, then pump them up or deflate them as needed to adjust the window's position. Once you're satisfied with the window position, insert permanent wood shims at all the screw locations. Once the window is plumb, level, and square, drive the installation screws (included with the window) into the prefabricated holes in the jamb. Don’t over-tighten, or the window might bow and not function properly. Cut the excess shim material flush with the wall. Check the sash for proper operation once the screws are in place. If there are any gaps greater than 1/8 inch between the window and house frame, loosely pack insulation in the interior. Spray foam is acceptable if the product is designated for “windows and doors,” so it won’t expand to the point that it could prevent proper operation. Reinstall new stop molding on the installation side, then caulk, trim and paint to your preference. Here is the fully sealed Weather Shield window ready for new trim. - M. Weber Learn more about window replacement: · How to Measure a Window for Replacement · Selecting New Window Styles · Reduce Condensation on Windows · Installing Craftsman Window Trim New Windows Save Energy Select replacement windows with energy-efficient designs for year-round thermal performance. New windows with vacuum-sealed, double-pane glass can reduce a home’s power bill by reducing heat and cold transfer. Low-E coatings reflect infrared light to keep the heat in during the winter and outside in the summer. The term “Low E” means low emissivity. Emissivity is a property of materials such as glass, which light can freely pass through. Low E is a coating of microscopic layers of silver sandwiched between layers of anti-reflective metal oxide coatings. Added to the surface of window and door glass, Low E provides greater energy efficiency, increased comfort and protection from damaging UV rays. By filtering out the part of the light spectrum that transmits heat, Low E reduces a window’s U-Value and increases its R-Value. These coatings can also reduce fading in carpets, artwork and photos by helping block the damaging ultraviolet rays. Learn more about window options at Weather Shield.

Q: I’ve had new windows installed, but I’m seeing condensation on the glass inside the house. Do the windows have a problem? A: Although window surfaces may be the first place you notice condensation forming, it’s really not the fault of the windows. Condensation is caused by excess humidity trapped inside a home; moisture that can cause problems if allowed to remain. There are several steps you can take to reduce or eliminate excess humidity and condensation inside your home. • As a temporary solution, open a window in each room for just a few minutes. This is especially helpful after a shower, or after running the washing machine or other moisture-creating appliances. • Keep attic louvers open. This will allow moisture that travels upward through the house and into the attic to be released to the outside. Some people close or block attic louvers during the winter in hopes of saving fuel. While energy savings are minimal, the moisture that is trapped in the attic can eventually do a great deal of damage to the roof, to attic insulation, and to the ceilings below. Besides louvers, other types of attic ventilation to consider are continuous eaves vents and ridge venting. If you are considering adding attic ventilation, it’s best to consult with a knowledgeable contractor on the best types for your home. • Check the crawlspace or basement. The crawlspace should have foundation vents so that moisture from the soil can travel to the outside instead of upward into your house. A vapor barrier (such as polyethylene film) over the ground is also helpful. If you have a basement, watch walls and floor for moisture seepage. Again, for advice on eliminating moisture in crawlspaces and basements, it’s best to consult an expert. • If you have exhaust fans in your kitchen, bathrooms and utility rooms, run them longer than usual in winter. If you don’t have them, consider having them installed. • Keep draperies and shades open so that air can circulate around the inside glass. Condensation is more apt to occur when drapes are closed and shades are pulled down. • Eliminate any other controllable sources of moisture in your house. Properly ventilate clothes dryers and all gas appliances. Control excessive use of room humidifiers. • Use dehumidifiers. Check with your local heating and cooling contractor on the size you need. Source: Weather Shield Mfg., Inc.

(guest post courtesy Money.co.uk) Home remodeling remains hotter than ever, from DIY updates to pro-grade renovations. The most common reason for a remodel is to update the look and style of a home, but tastes vary, and one homeowner's preferences are likely to differ greatly from the next. Knowing the "look" you aim to achieve will go a long way toward helping you plan a remodeling project. Do you prefer a Modern Farmhouse appearance or a more Industrial look. Maybe you're partial to a Contemporary style or a more Eclectic look. Determining the style of your interior decor will help inform your choice of materials and new fixtures. What are the most sought after interior design styles in 2021? Industrial - 683,480 boards Modern - 478,608 boards Modern Farmhouse - 420,232 boards Contemporary - 407,151 boards Eclectic - 404,655 boards If you don’t want to splurge on a home makeover, money.co.uk have compiled some useful tips on how you can recreate these five signature looks in your home on a budget. Industrial Bare brick, rough textures, and solid structures sum up the ethos of the industrial look. The style aims to celebrate the modernist eye for efficiency and functionality by transforming beams, columns, pipes, ducts and flanges into the working parts of a building. The industrial look is more popular than ever with DIY decorators, and shows no signs of going anywhere. It’s worth bearing in mind that if you’re choosing a highly-desired design style you have to be prepared for a higher price tag. However, recreating this signature look doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. With a bit of ingenuity, you can pull together authentic finds, DIY projects and budget pieces to give your home the ultimate industrial look. Paint it black Paint anything black for an instant industrial update. Add the color to the base of an old claw-foot tub, your trim, radiators and even picture frames. Dip paint something black Solid black a little too daring for you? Try dip painting instead. You can use tape to block off the section of the object you want to keep paint free, and brush-on or spray paint the rest of the rustic old wood to coat it in a lick of black paint. Incorporating black on rustic old wood such as on chair or table legs are great choices to help achieve a more subtle industrial look within your home. DIY pipe bookcases Pipe fittings and wooden planks can be transformed into a rustic industrial shelving unit in as little time as a weekend. However, this sort of home project is more catered to the more advanced DIY lovers out there, so if you’re a relative beginner or novice to the world of up-cycling, it’s worth investing in some help from an experienced friend or professional. Stick with a black and gray palette One of the easiest ways to master this look is by limiting your decor to a fairly strict palette of black, grey and white, with natural, worn-looking wood incorporated in. Shop budget-friendly stores for lamps, bedding, pillows, towels and more, in shades of grey, black and white - solid hues like these generally look good at any price point, so why spend more? Get creative with shelving Shelving units constructed from timber planks and plumbing materials are an easy way of incorporating the industrial look for less in your home. Plus, they are a great way of adding inventive storage solutions. Mix up materials and textures There is nothing flat, boring or one-dimensional about the industrial look. Adding reclaimed wood, leather, subway tile, concrete, weathered metal, old crockery and plates, and mismatched vintage cutlery to your home can all help towards achieving a vintage-warehouse-style interior. Modern The second most commonly pinned theme was found to be modern with 478,608 boards dedicated to the ethos. These preferences amongst Pinterest users seem to indicate that clean lines, geometric form and clear open spaces are what homeowners are looking for when putting their own stamp on a property. Find good deals on new items The best way to incorporate modern pieces into your home for less involves knowing how to find a bargain. Research and become familiar with well-reviewed retailers that consistently offer durable, well-designed pieces that are also affordable for every-day customers. Add a splash of color Adding a splash of color to your home is one of the most affordable ways you can add a modern twist to your home design. The cost of wall-paint depends on the quality and brand, but if you want to brighten up the crisp clean lines of your modern decor with a stand-out feature wall, you can grab a brush and add this detail for less than $40. Add throws and pillows Accessorizing with pillows and throws is one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to inject a fresh style into your living room or bedroom. Incorporating pillows and throws enables you to integrate neutral, earthy tones, and monochromatic colors into your modern design. For example, for a modern look you should arrange your pillows in odd numbers. Add three or five pillows to your bed or sofa as in the modern aesthetic, odd numbers always look more artful. Mirrors Mirrors have a way of tricking the mind and by strategically placing them around your home, you can make any room appear bigger than it actually is. Adding large mirrors to different rooms around the home offers a budget-friendly way of adding new dimensions to an area by reflecting the room back, giving the illusion of it being more spacious. Modern Farmhouse Comfy, cozy and full of welcoming charm; you don’t have to live in the countryside in order to appreciate the beauty of farmhouse decor. The key to mastering this interior style is to embrace the casual, rural, country vibe, then add in your own personal twists to create a unique and warm atmosphere that you won’t ever want to leave. The casual feel associated with modern farmhouses is popular with those looking to spruce up their homes, with 420,232 dedicated boards on Pinterest. The good news is that this popular interior theme doesn’t have to break the bank, here’s three ways you can incorporate modern farmhouse decor into your home for less: Cover dated furniture If investing in a new lightly-colored fabric or leather furniture is out of the question, a budget friendly alternative is to use furniture covers. You can easily cover your sofa and armchairs with the more affordable slipcovers, to achieve a crisp and natural modern farmhouse look for less. Slipcovers fit snugly to your furniture and are also washable, making them the perfect solution for households with young children and pets. Bring in branches Farmhouse style is pretty neutral, and relies on natural elements like branches and wildflowers to add warmth and color. Florals are an important element to incorporate into any modern farmhouse design, otherwise your decor is at risk of appearing more contemporary than rustic. You can arrange branches and wildflowers in inexpensive vases and position them around the house on mantles, coffee tables and dining room tables to add the modern farmhouse feel to your interiors. Add wood and metal as art From charity shops to vintage shops, you can find plenty of moderately-priced pieces that can be used to create statement artwork in your home. An old wood window frame can be a perfect addition to your modern farmhouse interior in place of a painting that could cost more than double the price. Iron and metal pieces can also be sprayed in black to add contrast to the neutral and warm tones that come with the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Contemporary The contemporary style of decorating is defined by its simplicity, subtle sophistication, deliberate use of texture, and clean lines. Interiors tend to showcase space rather than objects, and this style is proving to be popular with 407,151 Pinterest boards of inspiration available to those looking to update their homes. Whether you’re planning a simple makeover or a complete renovation, going for decor options that you can afford without sacrificing on style is the way to go. Add a splash of vibrant color If you’re looking for a simple but cost-effective way to make your home more relaxing and contemporary, start by adding a splash of color. Vibrant colors can be incorporated into your home by simply purchasing a range of plants and flowers that can help to add bursts of targeted color within different areas of the home. Placing flowers like orchids next to heavier pieces of furniture like bookshelves or beside a coffee table is an easy and budget-friendly way to create a contemporary feel in your home. Contemporary bookshelves Adding a contemporary-look bookshelf to your living or dining room, not only gives you extra storage space but it also adds a huge amount of personality. This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to blend style and functionality in your home, without losing any of its aesthetic appeal. Instead of focusing on books alone, contemporary style allows you to diversify your decor options by including plants, photos and artwork to your shelves. Lighting Taking into account how many light sources each room in your home will have is an important element when designing a contemporary feel home. The lighting you choose will need to make an impression with either pendant, sconces or table lamps. To incorporate statement lighting on a budget, you should search for bargain pieces at charity and vintage shops. Second hand pieces can also benefit from DIY hacks such as spray painting to up-cycle the piece and create the illusion of a brand new accessory. Eclectic The eclectic style is defined by interiors with not only varied styles, but also a variety of eras, color palettes, and textures, and is popular with recent home renovations, boasting 404,655 boards on Pinterest. As eclectic pieces are often collected over time they can often result in a higher price tag, but these tips can show you that eclectic design can be accomplished affordably. Look for bargains Incorporating key eclectic furniture and accessories into your home can be costly, that’s why it is important to shop for unique second-hand items at charity, vintage and thrift shops. A thrift shop find can easily be updated and restored to its best by carrying out a few simple DIY jobs such as deep cleaning or painting. Waiting for store sales at the end of each season is another great way of purchasing pieces for your home, for a much more affordable price. Mix textures Incorporating both rough and smooth textures adds interest to an interior, especially when your space has a more simple color palette. Consider investing in shaggy throw rugs or pillows, nubby or thick fabrics woven into furniture, and soft finishes on iron or other metals. Incorporating a mix of textures through accessories is a budget-friendly way to mix different design styles together. Add trim to your curtains If you want to update your curtains but don’t have the budget to buy brand new ones, pay some attention to the curtains you already have and up-cycle them.You can update your curtains by adding an iron on trim to basic curtain panels, to give your curtains a new look that complements your eclectic design. Get eclectic Again, the eclectic design is perfect for anyone wanting to spruce up their interiors on a budget as it is often the easiest to replicate. Why? The look is all about mixing and not matching. Since there’s no need to find a specific style side table, or the exact color palette, shopping for furniture and décor will be much more affordable. MORE STYLES TO CONSIDER... Bohemian French Country Shabby Chic Transitional Minimalist

New faucets can add style to interior décor; newer ones even conserve water for lower utility bills. Choose from such finishes as chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel and more, in modern designs or traditional styling. Faucet installation is fairly straightforward, but cramped space and poor visibility beneath a sink can be confusing for first-timers. Here’s an example, using the parts of a faucet designed for 4-inch center sets. STEP 1 Shut off the water supply, then use a wrench to unscrew the supply lines and wing nuts beneath the faucet levers. STEP 2 Unscrew the cap of the drain’s lift rod so the faucet will slip over it. STEP 3 Remove the faucet; it should pull right out, but you may need to break the seal of old caulk. STEP 4 Scrub away any remaining old sealant or putty with a degreasing product. STEP 5 Place a bead of plumber’s putty along the edge of the plastic gasket that fits between the sink and faucet. Apply the gasket to the sink. STEP 6 Insert the shanks of the faucet through the sink and secure them with new wing nuts. STEP 7 Unhook the old pop-up drain cover from the lift lever in the drain pipe and pull it out. STEP 8 Remove drain by unscrewing the retaining nut from the drain assembly with a wrench or pliers. STEP 9 Apply plumber’s putty beneath the lip of the new drain cap, and seat the cap into the sink. STEP 10 The drain assembly mating component installs from beneath the sink with a rubber gasket. Apply plumbing sealant to it before installing. STEP 11 Connect the drain and gasket to the drain cap from below with a new retaining nut. STEP 12 Position the drain pipe with the lift-lever hole facing the rear of the sink. Fasten the pipe in place with thread seal tape or self-fusing silicone tape tape. STEP 13 Thread the lift rod in through the top of the new faucet. STEP 14 Drop in the new drain cover. STEP 15 Install the adjustable extension arm to the lift rod of the drain cap. The lift rod connects with a simple thumb screw. STEP 16 Install the lift lever in the drain. The short end of the lever (near the ball) inserts through the hook at the bottom of the new drain cap. The ball is secured in the drain pipe with a nut. STEP 17 Thread the lever’s long end through whichever hole in the extension arm will allow easiest operation of the drain assembly. Reconnect the sink drain onto the P-trap with a coupling nut, and then reconnect the water supply lines. The new faucet should now be ready for use. Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in The Quick and Easy Home DIY Manual by HIR's editor Matt Weber, now available at Amazon and other fine book retailers.