How to Weed Your Attic: Getting Rid of Junk without Destroying History provides answers to the question: when someone dies or it's time to move --- or just clean out the attic, garage, or basement, what papers and other things should we save for the sake of history and what can we safely toss? After reading this clearly written book by a retired archivist and a retired museum curator, you can comfortably clean out your attic - or office, garage, basement, cupboards - with confidence that you're not tossing out historically valuable (or invaluable) things, and that you will not ask your local museum to take things that really belong in a thrift store, junk yard, or recycle center. The book first describes how to identify historically important documents and artifacts. The authors explain a few simple rules: 1) a complete or long collection has more value than a partial one; 2) emotive material provides a richer picture than factual material; 3) unique usually has more value than mass produced; 4) documents and objects carry more information than they intend to; and 5) a 25-year rule exists without our consciously recognizing it. They then apply the rules and assess the probable historical value of four different types of materials: mass produced (from books to vehicles), individually created (from art work to toys), business materials (from governance documents to uniforms), and commemorative materials (from awards to wedding dresses). The book includes a brief description of the basics for preserving materials the reader wants to keep and references sources for more detail. It also recognizes that the reader may not want to keep stuff that clearly has historical value. For those readers, the authors describe how to donate materials to a cultural repository. In broad strokes, they explain how repositories differ, what the repository will want to know about the stuff you're offering, where an appraiser and/or tax advisor fits into the process, and what the reader can expect the repository to do and not do. Finally, the book addresses unexpected issues that may arise around questions of legal ownership and privacy. Throughout the book, the authors illustrate their points using photographs and vignettes.

Old-House Dictionary From a One Room Cabin to a Beaux-Arts Mansion… Here’s a concise and easily understandable architectural dictionary for professionals and amateurs alike. More than 450 illustrations, 1500 terms, 750 definitions, and 17 useful cross references guide you smoothly through the oftentimes confusing language of American domestic architecture. Who is This Dictionary For?

• Architects and Architectural Historians
• Preservationists
• Building Trades Professionals
• Interior Designers
• High School and College Students
• Old Home Owners and Lovers

What are the best ways to defeat rising damp, combat yellowing cotton and fix noisy water pipes? How often should you pick your herbs to keep them bushy and healthy? Full of invaluable and easy-to-follow advice for indoors and out, "The Home Book" has all the answers for you. "The Home Book" provides simple techniques for cleaning, maintaining and repairing your home. Save money using "The Home Book's" own recipes for dishwasher, window and toilet cleaners, and follow the invaluable stain removal tips - did you know you can get rid of lipstick stains with kerosene and use milk when removing ink on cotton? Other handy hints are great for the environment as well as your budget, such as replacing regular light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent ones, and running your fridge between 3 C and 5 C to reduce electricity costs. Tips on growing herbs, container gardening, making your own straw compost and tending a worm garden will guarantee you get the best out of your outdoor space, whether it's a garden, backyard or apartment balcony. Every home, no matter how big or small, will benefit from this book that is packed with clever ideas, practical information and helpful hints, "The Home Book" is an indispensible DIY manual. Key points: includes hundreds of projects for around the home and garden to keep it clean and functioning; all clever tips that you wish you had learnt from your grandparents; covers a broad range of household tips, from cleaning, stain removal and do-it-yourself repairs to basic vehicle maintenance; and, includes all the need-to-know information on how to grow a healthy and sustainable garden, both for houses and apartments; includes environmentally-aware green options.

Are your energy bills through the roof, and is your home still cold in the winter and hot in the summer? That s the reality for many homeowners in Wisconsin today, but it doesn t have to be that way. Advances in glass technology and window construction in recent years have made old style windows obsolete. In fact, some windows now on the market are more energy efficient than the walls that surround them. Taking into consideration the window technology available today, we are able to produce high-performance windows that keep comfort at a maximum and energy consumption at a minimum. Read this book if you are considering replacing some or all of the windows in your home. Learn how to assess the performance metrics on window labels and choose the best product for your situation. Find out about single-, double-, and triple-glazing and how it affects conduction and air infiltration. Read about argon and krypton, and learn which more effectively slows conduction. From the hazards of doing it yourself, to the pitfalls of hiring a handyman, Wisconsinite Scott The Window Guy Young draws from a lifetime of experience replacing windows the right way. He guides you through the basics of glass production, window styles and construction, installation, price, and long-term value. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about replacing the windows in your home. Then window shop like a pro and enjoy the comfort, convenience, good looks, and energy efficiency that high-quality, properly installed windows will deliver for years to come."

". . . readers will count on Popular Mechanics' advice." --Booklist (starred review) For any home repair, big or small, homeowners can turn to this practical and portable reference. Got a squeaky floor or a rattling door? Is your grout a color you don't recognize anymore? From quick fixes like linking broken chains and patching drywall to more involved projects like replacing a fuel line and bleeding your brakes, Popular Mechanics How to Fix Anything is the handy and reliable go-to guide for the most common household problems offering a primer on plumbing, unexpected hacks like using a golf tee to fill a stripped screw hole, instructions for tuning up the garage door, and so much more. Throughout the book Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics' senior home editor, answers questions about the trickiest fix-its, including how to deal with a recurring ceiling cracks or get rid of that stench from the kitchen sink.. And because it's organized room by room, from basement to bathroom to bedroom, it's simple to find the solution you need--so you won't have to hire someone else to do the job.

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER The Organised Mum Method is THE housekeeping bible that will completely revolutionise your home. Say goodbye to mess, clutter and weekends spent tidying and cleaning! Gemma Bray (a.k.a The Organised Mum) is a firm believer that there is more to life than housework, and over the last decade she has perfected The Organised Mum Method (TOMM).* The Organised Mum Method is a structured, manageable and ultra-efficient cleaning routine that ensures all areas of the home are taken care of. It's easy to follow, effective and ensures that everything gets done in just 30 minutes a day, Monday to Friday ... and you get weekends off! Perfect for existing fans of TOMM or anyone looking for ways to fit cleaning around a busy lifestyle, The Organised Mum Method includes life-changing tips, tricks, cleaning schedules, shopping lists, meal plans and quick recipes that will help you get your housework done fast. *Don't worry dads -- it works for you too.

Whether your home is a city apartment, country cottage or large and rambling house, it is your space and should be well cared for. The secret is managing the upkeep without feeling overwhelmed. As a hotelier, Francis Brennan has gathered unparalleled expertise in home maintenance and care, and this year, once again, he has compiled his Homekeeper's Diary to help you manage household tasks month by month. From getting organised to gardening, cookery and a whole host of useful tips, it's a practical bible which you can delve into daily to discover all the information you need to keep your home looking its best.

Finally, some practical information on what happens after the property has been acquired. Some of the topics covered: [ Cash Flows in Both Directions [ Real Truth Behind No Money Down Deals [ Realities of Property Management Companies [ Value Added Strategies [ Maintenance & Repair - A Constant Challenge [ Vacancies Can Be Expensive [ Exit Strategies - What To Do If Its Not Working [ Landlord Tenant Relationships Special Bonus: Wisdom is shared thru out from Active Successful Investors on Critical Aspects of Owning Investment Real Estate

Get the satisfaction (and savings) of a well-maintained home. This one-stop resource provides all the information you need to keep up the beauty and convenience of your home and property today - and prevent costly problems down the road. Written by an expert contractor/landscaper with years of experience caring for prestigious homes, "The Ultimate Home Maintenance Manual" gives you efficient, thorough, and professional methods that make every home and garden task as easy, effective, and even enjoyable as possible. It offers systematic directions to a beautiful, well-maintained home. This book covers every step in maintaining the appearance, performance, and value of your home - including how to keep your yard and garden thriving and trouble free! Each project features step-by-step instructions, illustrations, photos, a list of needed tools, and difficulty ratings to help you decide when to hire a professional.You'll also find advice about tools and materials to keep on hand and tips on how to work with professionals. Sidebars, tips, and techniques from the expert author make this an indispensable addition to every homeowner's library. Joe Beck's illustrated instructions show you how to: protect and enhance your most expensive investment; avoid costly and annoying breakdowns, deterioration, and property damage; use professional tips and tricks that make each task as easy, fast, and efficient as possible; avoid neglecting a thing with this complete program for your home and yard; be prepared for emergencies with the right tools; and, feel pride in your well-maintained home!You get a full maintenance program for the house - choosing and using home tools; roof, chimney, and gutters; plumbing system; the electrical system; heating and cooling systems; floors; walls and doors; windows; basements; driveways, walkways, and patios; siding; decks; and, pools. The maintenance program for the property includes: choosing and using yard tools; the lawn; flower beds; bushes and shrubs; fences; trees for natural privacy and wind screening; appendix: climate and geographic considerations; and, appendix - resource listings for special problems (radon, asbestos, floods, etc.)

This book was previously published under the title Using Natural Finishes. With the increasing awareness of eco-building techniques alongside the desire to make our homes healthier, the historical benefits of using natural renders and paints are being rediscovered. Clay and Lime Renders, Plasters and Paints is an in-depth guide to the selection, mixing and application of lime and clay based plasters, renders, paints and washes. Step-by-step instructions for applying lime and clay based plasters, renders and paints. Information on the benefits of natural finishes for personal health, the environment, and for buildings. Drawing on traditional methods & materials for using lime & clay finishes on new and historic buildings. A comprehensive and up-to-date online resourceguide to suppliers, practitioners and courses. Easy to follow DIY projects guide the reader through all aspects of using these natural finishes, with beautiful photographs of techniques and examples from the UK and abroad.

'(Gaff Goddess) should be taught in schools. It's genuinely, hands-on empowering! After four paragraphs I am fully convinced I could build my own house and go on Grand Designs!' - Marian Keyes

Laura de Barra is quite simply a Gaff Goddess. Expanding on her popular online home hacks, Laura will teach you how to handle the problems we all encounter in our homes.

Straight-talking and hilarious and packed with Laura’s stunning illustrations, her step-by-step guides will prepare you to handle the most common household emergencies with style. From dripping taps to hanging a frame, how best to look after your white goods, how to treat moths, mould and everything in between, and with invaluable design ideas to improve the living spaces in your home, this book is for everyone who has ever wanted to tackle a bit of She-IY without really knowing how.

Ingenious and sure to be an instant household must-have, Gaff Goddess will empower you to make those repairs and rediscover your space saving you time, money and stress in the process.

Cleaning has never been easier with this essential guide to tidying your house and home. With over 1,000 ideas, hints, tips and shortcuts from industry professionals, every domestic cleaning problem is covered - from swift solutions in moments of panic to ideas for a weekend deep clean, Clean Your Way to Happy has everything you need to achieve a tidy home and a tidy mind. Sections include: * Kitchens * Around the home * Valuables * Stains * Pets and animals * Clothes * Cars and bikes * Prevention This title was previously published as Trade Secrets: Cleaning.

Many of Britain's four million Victorian and Edwardian houses were shoddily built and often require 'essential repairs'. Problems like rising damp, timber decay, bowed roofs and subsidence are well known, but how can you tell if your house has major defects or is just typical for its age? Forget 'makeovers': this new edition of the Victorian House Manual, which has been extensively updated, shows where to look for danger signs, what's 'normal' and what isn't, and how to fix common defects. Equipped with this book, you can talk the same language as builders and property professionals. Written in a friendly and enjoyable style, and yet technically comprehensive. How your house was built - its age and history. What adds value? Packed with entertaining snippets - everything from anthrax in the walls and ingress of sewer rats to why cats are bad news for some roofs. Each chapter is devoted to a key part of the house: roofs, walls, windows, ceilings, etc, in the comprehensive style of a Building Survey, with full-colour photos and some step-by-step projects for repairs. Defects, causes and solutions: how to identify, solve and prevent all common defects found in Victorian houses, with some common scams exposed.

Want the best tried-and-tested tips to make your home beautiful? Ready to transform your home and stay on budget?

The official DIY: On A Budget handbook from the founder of the 2 million strong online community will give you all the tools, tips and inspiration you need to re-decorate rooms and homes of all sizes, no matter how big or small your budget.

Your essential DIY handbook includes:

• Before You Start: Toni's tips on what you need to know before you take action, including the essential kit to own.
• Room by Room: the best ideas for your Kitchen, Living Room, Bathroom, Utility/Store, Halls & Landings, Bedrooms, Nooks and Crannies.
• Keep to Budget: A must-have budget planner to keep your transformation on track.
• Help is on Hand: When things go wrong! Top tips from Toni on fixing mistakes, drawing in useful advice from the community.
• Who Can Help: Your go-to list of useful suppliers across the UK and online

Make your home renovation picture perfect and wallet friendly with Diy. On A Budget.

All the things consumers can do with Diatomaceous Earth: Over 101 easy ways to go green with this amazing food grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) that originates from ancient fossilized algae provided by Mother Nature. * Safer natural insecticide for homes, gardens, animals, birds, barns, farms, kennels, grains, crops, schools, parks, etc. * Learn what DE is, where it comes from, & how to use it. * Learn tools, application methods & recipes for applying DE. * Learn how to read labels correctly to choose the right kind of DE. * Learn how to identify and distinguish from unsuitable industrial filtering grades. * Learn about health risks linked to toxic chemical pesticides. * Discover eco-stories & anecdotal comments from all kinds of successful users of DE. * Find healthier & more contented birds & animals: DE rids fleas, ticks, lice & parasites. * Use DE as an animal feed additive for improved nutrition & health. * Use DE in animal feed as an anti-caking agent for anti-clumping, easy flow & mixing. * Use DE as a deodorizer on manure for drier mangers, barns, & stables for less flies. * Use DE as a soil amender for clay soils for more porosity & supply 14 trace minerals. * Use DE for protecting & storing grains & seeds. * Use DE to clean up oil spills. * Use DE to clean & polish tarnished silver & copper. * Use DE to dry leaves & flowers for arrangements. * Use DE as a non-scratching soft scrub. * Use DE to remove light scratches from vehicles. * Use DE as a deodorizer in shoes, kitty litter, refrigerator, vacuum bags & garbage cans, etc.

The indispensable reference guide for every homeowner, guaranteed to help you maintain and improve your home while saving time and money. Covering everything from replacing faulty faucets and showerheads to curing the quirks of an air conditioner, this book provides step-by-step illustrated instructions, plus a comprehensive chapter on tools. Includes more than 3,000 instructional photographs, illustrations, charts, and diagrams. Let New Fix-It-Yourself Manual guide you through: * Fixing a broken dryer by testing the thermostat, thermal fuse, heating coils, etc. * Troubleshooting electric and gas range problems and fixing them * Reupholstering and reweaving chair seats * Stocking up on the proper tools and supplies for fixing electronics * Installing, testing, and repairing speakers, including maintaining proper polarity * Repairing broken handbags and suitcases properly and professionally * Fixing small engines in yard and workshop tools * Restoring broken air conditioners, heaters, and dehumidifiers * Safely disassembling, testing, and repairing a chain saw REVIEW AUTHORBIO

Filled with sound, up-to-date advice and instruction, this complete guide makes fence building a task anyone can tackle with confidence.

An updated edition of the best-selling DIY manual you can’t afford to be without, with expert know-how for success every time.

Whether you need to do a quick fix or a large DIY project, find out how to tackle any DIY task with confidence following this revised and updated step-by-step guide.

From fitting a shower cubicle to applying different painting techniques, the simple, clear, unintimidating instructions ensure even hard jobs are made easy, whatever your level of ability.

With step-by-step photographs of every technique and process, DIY breaks down every stage of every task, from choosing tools and essential safety guidance to advice for tackling big jobs and fixing common problems. Including the latest home features like boiling-water taps and smart security systems, up-to-date safety guidelines, and eco-conscious solutions from paint choices to solar panels, this is the tried-and-trusted guide that no homeowner should be without.