DIY
Replace Garage Door Springs
February 3, 2009 by Gabe Hoggarth · Leave a Comment
Author: Michael Foster
Replacing Garage Door Springs is a pretty simple process with the proper information. We have replaced garage door springs and garage door parts successfully for homeowners since 1980 and now since the net have been educating homeowners and service repairmen as well. We offer a great line of garage door springs and garage door parts to the end-user so you can properly replace your broken garage door springs and parts without a hitch.
First identify the problem: Do you have Torsion Springs or Extension Springs? Torsion Springs are mounted above the garage door opening, while Extension Springs are mounted above the garage door track. Torsion Springs twist while Extension Springs stretch under pressure.
Like Extension Springs, Torsion Springs are usually installed in matched pairs. Single Torsion Spring applications are usually fine with single or one-car garage door applications. After identifying the broken spring(s), now we can move on to measuring.
Measuring your broken or unwound Garage Door Torsion Springs or Extension Springs is simple as 1-2-3! First, you need to measure the length of 20 coils starting at the break of the spring. Measuring at the break of the spring will assure you that your coils are at their tightest point. Make sure to measure to the nearest 1/16th of an inch for accuracy.
Secondly, measure the Inside Diameter of the Garage Door Spring. Torsion Springs come in many different sizes but typically found in 1 3/4″ - 2″ and 2 1/4″ Inside Diameters. Extension Springs are much smaller. Measuring the inside diameter of Extension Springs can be difficult due to small size so measuring the outside diameter is fine. If measuring Extension Springs, you may need to call or email us for further assistance.
Last, measure the length of your Garage Door Spring(s). Torsion Springs and Extension Springs are measured from end to end less end connecting pieces. Basically just measure the spring coils, not the cones on Torsion Springs, or Loops, clips on Extension Springs. Measure to the nearest 1/2″ and you’ll be fine.
Installing your Garage Door Springs
About the Author:
My name is Michael Foster, I live in Southern California and operate a few Garage Door Parts, Garage Door Spring websites since the beginning of the net. We have more than 30 years experience in the trades and enjoy helping people repair their Garage Doors with our Garage Door Parts.
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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/replace-garage-door-springs-744573.html
Concrete Staining Tips
February 3, 2009 by Gabe Hoggarth · Leave a Comment
Author: Joel Jamison
No matter if you have new or old floors, concrete staining is a great way to enhance the look of your home. This technique can dramatically improve the look of your home as well as increase the its overall value. Many people think that they need a professional to do the staining but you can do this as a DIY project and save yourself a ton of money. Below are some helpful concrete staining tips to get you started.
Avoid products that are only concrete “paints” of “films”. These only coat the surface and will quickly chip, giving your floor a very cheap look.
Acid based concrete stains are becoming more and more popular. These stains actually react with the minerals in your floor and change its composition. You can choose from 8 to 10 colors of acid stain, which consist of mainly reddish earth tones, greens, and brown tones. Acid based stains mimic the look of expensive stone.
There are also water-based stains, which are more user friendly. This can be a great choice for those that are new to the whole concept of concrete staining. These types of stains are a bit different from acid based stains, as they will not have a chemical reaction with the concrete. They act like a dye because they are absorbed into the pores of the concrete. Water based stains give you a wider selection of colors, but give an opaque and less rich look.
If you are and advanced DIYer you can try your hand at some scoring techniques. You can create some intricate patterns that make your concrete floors look like tile. This will allow you to draw the stain through to create new dimensions. It is all up to your imagination as to what you can create with the stain.
Staining your concrete can be a fun and exciting project to tackle on your own. Not only will you increase the value of your home you will also add flare and dimension to your home. Be sure to do your homework and listen to these concrete staining tips so you will go into the project with full knowledge of what to expect with each type of stain.
About the Author:
Learn how to stain concrete floors with my step by step guide to stained concrete
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/concrete-staining-tips-746401.html
Plan the Perfect Outdoor Fireplace
February 3, 2009 by Gabe Hoggarth · Leave a Comment
Author: Gen Wright
Planning to install an outdoor fireplace is very much like planning to install an indoor fireplace. However, there are some differences that you may wish to take note of. For example, all outdoor fireplaces are exposed to the external environment. So that may affect your choice of raw materials. Also, since it’s an outdoor fireplace, you can worry less about smoke.
Like all fireplaces, you only have to ponder over three things: building materials, ventilation, and size.
When it comes to building materials, there are many options to choose from. You can build fireplaces with cast iron, masonry, granite, limestone, copper, and other building materials. Each type of material will have its own unique characteristics. For instance, iron has the tendency to rust over time, but it can withstand extremely high temperatures and can be very durable.
Ventilation is also a major component that you should ponder over. Most outdoor fireplaces are installed with chimneys. When you have a tall chimney installed, you don’t have to worry about smoke. Smoke will be directed upwards, and into the atmosphere. Of course, you should choose a chimney design that fits well with the exterior of your home.
Then you have the element of heat to consider. The size of your outdoor fireplace depends on the area that you want to heat up. The larger the area, the bigger the fireplace. Bear in mind that when you have a large fireplace, more burning fuel will be consumed. But in exchange, you get more heat throughout a larger area. To help spread heat around, you can also install a fireplace blower. That will help even out the heat in the same area.
In general, the more time you are going to stay outdoors, the more you may be willing to invest in your outdoor fireplace. It doesn’t make sense to install a huge permanent fireplace if no one is going to use it often. So think over this carefully. Will a small fireplace be good enough?
To perfect your plan, start thinking about installation issues as early as possible. Do you want to install an outdoor fireplace yourself, or do you need help installing the fireplace? In the current market place, there are DIY outdoor fireplaces available. However, if you do not have any experience whatsoever, it’s always better to enlist some help.
If there is a custom design that you like very much, then your only option is to hire professional contractors to install the fireplace for you. In a way, your outdoor fireplace plan has become a mini project.
Then there is the option of buying portable outdoor fireplaces. This is a popular option for those who are looking to heat up an area temporarily. It will also help save space as you can put it away when not in use.
About the Author:
For more information on Outdoor Fireplace Plan and Types of Outdoor Fireplaces, please visit our website.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/plan-the-perfect-outdoor-fireplace-749386.html
