Tips taken from The Tomboy Tools Guide to Home Improvement
1 -For safety reasons, always plug your extension cord into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet while working on projects. Contractors are now required to do this on new construction projects and remodels.
2- When working with backer board on a tiling project, apply a layer of thin set or mastic before laying the backer board for a better and stronger seal. This can prevent any movement you may encounter with using only screws.
3-The best tile installation will have the largest tiles possible in the most visible areas.
4-Before starting a project or building something, envision it before you build it. Take the time to list your materials and the steps you will be taking, in order to prevent problem surprises. This will save you time in the long run.
5-The most common injury on a job or project results from improper use of a ladder. Always make sure it is flat on th surface and inside brackets are completely extended. Make sure the legs and surrounding area is clear of debris. Third step from the top is the highest you should stand.
6-While working around electricity, use a wooden ladder. Wooden ladders do not conduct electricity.
7-While making mitered cuts on trim, and after having marked your measurement, draw a quick line in the direction of your cut to remind yourself of the angle of the cut.
8-Also, while working with trim, a more accurate cut is achieved by putting the trim in place, then marking it. This tends to be a better fit than using a tape measure.
9-When using caulking, remember to identify the size of your joint first, before you cut the tube tip. Always make a small cut initially; you can always cut more if needed.
10-Before using screws in any project, hold the size of the screw up to what you will be driving it into. It can be easy to misjudge, resulting in the screw protruding out the bottom. Take into account the head of the screw sinking just below the surface of your wood.
