The 4 Best Glues (and 2 You Don't Need)

Filed under: Products & Materials

Don't know which type of glue is worth keeping on hand for repairs? Here's a quick guide so you won't get stuck.

Hot glue, white glue, Gorilla glue, Krazy glue -- how many glues do you really need? Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

I love fixing things, partly because it's a great way to save money and partly for the satisfaction. So it stands to reason that one of the most important items in my tool kit is glue. You'd think I'd have a drawer full of different kinds, but I don't. Perhaps 90 percent of all my household gluing chores is done with just a few kinds of glue. I like them for their versatility, shelf-life and performance.

Want to bring the best glues home? Here's what you should grab:

Best Glue #1: White Glue
White glue, also known as polyvinyl acetate (PVA), has been around for years, but new formulations made it stronger. Some white glues produce water-resistant bonds, but for truly waterproof results you may need to resort to a specialty glue (see below).

I use white glue for everything from woodworking to craft projects. It's great for bonding porous materials, including paper, wood, polystyrene and fabric. I like that it dries clear and is easy to clean up with water. In addition, white glues are non-flammable, without harmful fumes and relatively non-toxic -- unless ingested. For kids, you can buy "school" formulations that are easy to wash out of clothing. White glue's also inexpensive and, if kept from freezing, will last for many years.

White glue works best when the joint or repair is clamped. Hand clamps are quick and easy alternative to screw-type clamps for many repairs . Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

Best Glue #2: Yellow Glue

Yellow glue, also known as carpenter's glue, is very similar to white glue in its makeup and performance. But it's a bit more tacky and sets up a bit faster than white glue, which speeds up assembly. If you work with wood, keep a bottle of it on hand. Some new yellow glues, such as Titebond III Wood Glue, are waterproof, which makes them a convenient alternative to the two-part resorcinol glues that, until now, were the best choice for outdoor projects. Be advised, however, that yellow glue has a shorter shelf life than white glue. It's only good for about one year.

No clamp handy? A heavy weight serves admirably to hold the slipper sole and slipper upper together while this yellow glue repair cures. Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

Best Glue #3: 5-Minute Epoxy

Yes, epoxy. I know it's toxic, but I love the versatility and performance. I get around the toxicity by wearing vinyl disposable gloves whenever I use epoxy. I also wait until I have several things to fix. Then I open a couple of windows and set up a fan or go outdoors to make the repairs all at once.

Epoxy comes in several types. For household repairs, I prefer the ones that set up quickly, such as Devcon's 5 Minute Epoxy. It gives me enough time to make several small repairs at once, dries in 15 minutes and reaches functional strength in an hour. Mixing and using the product is easy, too.

This old model train engine suffered a break at the slot in which the coupler pivots. The epoxy repair has kept it on track for many years. Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

With most epoxies, you begin by squeezing out equal amounts of resin and hardener onto a disposable dish or container. Mix thoroughly for at least one minute. Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

Apply the mixed epoxy to the break. I used a toothpick here. Then, either hold the pieces together until the epoxy sets (5 to 10 minutes), or lightly clamp with a rubber band as shown. Epoxies are strong enough to bridge gaps ("gap-filling") and only require enough pressure to close and align the pieces being joined. Photo: Joe Provey, Home & Garden Editorial Services

Best Glue #4: Specialty Glues
Sometimes you'll need a specialized adhesive. When bonding countertop laminate to plywood, for example, contact cement is the glue of choice. When adhering floor tiles, you would want to use the flooring adhesive recommended by the flooring manufacturer. For wood paneling and moldings, a construction adhesive -- such as Liquid Nails --might be the way to go. Buy these glues as you need them in appropriate quantities.

Now -- the glues that didn't make the list. Save money by skipping out on these guys:

Glue to Skip #1: Polyurethane-based Glue
You'll note that polyurethane-based glues, such as Gorilla glue, didn't make my list. Nor did instant glues (cyanoacrylates), such as Krazy Glue. Both types cure upon contact with moisture, which can be problematic. Because once you open the tube, moisture that's in the air can get into the container and begin the curing process. You had better use the stuff up fast or you'll simply have a hardened, useless hunk of hazardous gunk to deal with. Worse yet, they're difficult to remove from your skin and toxic.

Many woodworkers prefer polyurethane-based glues, which makes sense if you're working in a production-style shop -- but not if you only build one or two projects a year. Use white or yellow glue instead. Also keep in mind that polyurethane-based glues expand while curing, so don't use them on an open joint. Finally, polyurethanes and cyanoacrylates are more expensive than many other glues, especially if you consider their short shelf lives.

Glue to Skip #2: Hot-melt Glue
I've also left hot-melt glue off my preferred glue list. Of course, if you enjoy craft projects, you may want a glue gun and supply of glue sticks. They are inexpensive and fast-drying. My gripe is that the bond produced by hot melt plastic glue is not very strong. That's fine if you're gluing up a Valentine's Day card, but glue seashells to a picture frame and in a year at least one will have fallen off. Plus, it's really easy to burn your fingers with these guys!

Here's some more great glue tips from DIY Life:
Spread Woodworking Glue the Easy Way
More Glue for Homeowners

 

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Source: http://www.diylife.com/2011/03/31/best-glue/

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Taping Drywall

Taping drywall is an important step in hanging drywall. The proper amount of drywall mud must be applied. Using the proper drywall taping tools and having a good hand-eye coordination are needed for doing drywall.

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/870_Taping_Drywall.shtml

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Counter Depth Refrigerator

Undercounter appliances, such as a refrigerator or freezers, can installed in your kitchen. A counter depth refrigerator can match your kitchen cabinets. No one will know that what looks like drawers are actually an undercounter refrigerator or an under counter freezer.

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/874_Counter_Depth_Refrigerator.shtml

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How to Assemble a Mini Trampoline

A mini trampoline is about the size of a standard trampoline.

Source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-assemble-a-mini-trampoline

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Apron Sink Video Part 1

Tim Carter unpacks a deluxe apron sink and gets ready to install it.

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/Apron_Sink_Video_Part_1.shtml

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Condensation Problems

Condensation problems in the garage could be from melted snow, a propane heater or a vapor barrier in the wrong place. Moisture problems are caused by too much humidity. A ceiling vapor barrier can trap moisture and create condensation.

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/867_Condensation_Problems.shtml

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Tips for Restoring Plastic Cladding

Over time, plastic cladding can develop a buildup of residue. This residue can cause the cladding to lose its sheen.

Source: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/tips-for-restoring-plastic-cladding

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Christmas Tree Fire Video

Tim Carter demonstrates the fury of a live Christmas tree catching on fire. Do NOT try this at home - EVER!

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/Christmas_Tree_Fire_Video.shtml

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Quilted Drink Coasters

In this episode of the Crafty Gemini Show I teach you some quilting basics and make a small project out of what you learn. I cover some quilting terminology, what is a pieced quilt, what are quilt blocks, how to make half-square triangle block units using a super easy method where you can make two b...
By: CraftyGemini

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Source: http://www.instructables.com/id/Quilted-Drink-Coasters/

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Make a Fabulous Wall Feature from PVC Pipe

When one gal had spare PVC in her backyard after installing a sprinkler system, she turned excess into success.  

The creative option for PVC found at Thrifty and Chic would be a great statement piece on your wall, as well as clean up your backyard. 

If not round, be square like this PVC frame from DIYIdeas.com

It kind of makes me want to run to the hardware store, STAT. 

Source: http://curbly.com/craftmel/posts/10051-make-a-fabulous-wall-feature-from-pvc-pipe

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Quilted Sweatshirt

I love up-cycling things! Finding new uses or a new way of repurposing something for someone else is amazing! I have made a few quilted sweatshirts for my kids and I thought you might enjoy doing the same for your little ones or for yourself! Enjoy:) What you will need You will need : ...
By: my 9 lives

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Source: http://www.instructables.com/id/Quilted-Sweatshirt/

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Quilted Drink Coasters

In this episode of the Crafty Gemini Show I teach you some quilting basics and make a small project out of what you learn. I cover some quilting terminology, what is a pieced quilt, what are quilt blocks, how to make half-square triangle block units using a super easy method where you can make two b...
By: CraftyGemini

Continue Reading »

Source: http://www.instructables.com/id/Quilted-Drink-Coasters/

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10 Items You Should Always Buy Generic

The average family of four spends about $6,000 a year at the supermarket. In this economy, we're looking for every possible way we can cut back. What are some items that you should always buy generic in order to save money??

Source: http://feeds.howstuffworks.com/~r/DailyStuff/~3/IeWQgmhk0PQ/10-items-you-should-always-buy-generic.htm

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Frozen Pipes

A fresh air intake directly next to water pipes can cause a frozen water pipe. The fresh air is required for today's HVAC systems. By redirecting the make-up air inlet down to the floor, you can provide some pipe freezing protection.

Source: http://www.askthebuilder.com/864_Frozen_Pipes.shtml

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The Vuoto: A Caravel Ship Model

For the last trimester of the year in seventh grade I had to make a model of a caravel, a type of sailing ship used by the Portuguese in the 15th and 16th century. The only conditions was that it had to be a caravel and it had to float. The sheet on how to make one issued by my teacher was disappoin...
By: D00M99

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Source: http://www.instructables.com/id/The-Vuoto-A-Caravel-Ship-Model/

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13 Things You Can Clean With a Toothbrush

Filed under: in the kitchen, organization and storage, cleaning, Kitchen & Bath, Small Projects, Living Spaces

One of the cheapest cleaning tools is also one of the most versatile. Do you know all the things your toothbrush is capable of?

Mary Findley ("Mary Moppins" of GoClean.com) has been a career housekeeper for at least a dozen years. She's also the co-author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cleaning" (2005) and wrote a follow-up four years later ("The Complete Idiot's Guide to Green Cleaning"). It's the move-outs for private residences that allow her to do the best work -- and remove every single speck of dirt. About every four to five months at each of her client's homes she arms herself with a toothbrush and does a deep clean.

Photo: Getty Images

Here's are some areas of your home -- make that, 13 -- where a toothbrush will come in handy. In most cases, your favorite cleaning products or simply warm, soapy water over the toothbrush bristles will be enough to do the job.

1. Edges of the kitchen and bathroom sinks
"It's those little crevices where dirt goes. Toothbrushes work a lot better than toothpicks, which break off all the time and then get stuck," says Findley.

2. Sink drain
To clean out the drain in your bathroom or kitchen sink, simply pour vinegar (which Findley likes as it's less toxic than most other options) down the drain. Next, take your toothbrush and scrub, scrub, scrub until you don't see any more grime lining the drain.

Photo: Jolie Novak, AOL

3. Stove and dishwasher knobs
If you've ever tried to take a sponge and swipe it over the knobs on your kitchen appliances, then you know this just does not work. The goal is to remove all of the dirt, not just some of it. That's where a toothbrush is your friend. It allows you to get under and behind those pesky little knobs, which is actually where dirt builds up, yes?

Photo: Jolie Novak, AOL

4. Faucet base
Mold and mildew can easily collect on the base of a faucet, says Findley. Gently brush the wet bristles of a toothbrush over the base and more will come off than you could have removed using a rag or a sponge.

5. Linoleum flooring
Put a blob of toothpaste onto a moist toothbrush and get down on all fours to get stubborn stains out, especially marks made from boots or high heels. "That's the only way I get heel marks off my client's floor," says Findley. Note: Do not try this with hardwood or ceramic-tile flooring, however. The toothpaste could stain and the scrubbing leave nasty-looking marks on the floor.

6. Lampshade
Getting dust off a lampshade might require just a swipe with a microfiber cloth, but what about keeping the color pristine? Grab a children's soft toothbrush and gently rub it against the lampshade. "They are wonderful for cleaning the pleats in a pleated lampshade," says Findley.

7. Framed pictures or art
Take a small piece of gauze and cover the bristles, says Findley. "That does a good job of cleaning the corners of framed pictures." If you don't cover the bristles you run the risk of scratching -- and forever damaging -- a beautiful frame.

8. Toilet-seat hinges
Another tight space that a toothbrush has no problem fitting into.

9. Wall sockets for light switches
You're probably already thoroughly cleaning the socket, but what about the little "off" and "on" areas? The bristles on a toothbrush can get the dirt out of those little letters, no problem.

10. Sliding glass doors
You know the runners on a shower area's sliding glass doors? They get pretty grimy and they're a pain to clean. Findley suggests that next time you tackle this task with a toothbrush. "Runners get moldy pretty quickly. A toothbrush gets in the corners," she says. "Man, a toothbrush just zips that stuff out of there."

11. Window frames
Just like the sliding glass doors, the insides of window frames are prime real estate for collecting mold. Take a toothbrush over the cracks and crevices to do a better cleaning job.

12. Microwave or stove vents
Findley takes a rag (she' s really good at chopping up her husband's old T-shirts into 5" by 5" pieces) and gets it slightly wet with a cleaner before throwing it over a toothbrush. This is perfect for cleaning out microwave or stove vents. "You can't spray a cleaner back there because it will burn out the fan," she says.

13. Refrigerator vents and coils
Ideally these should be cleaned twice a year. "With the slats in those vents, it's real hard to get a cloth down there," says Findley.

Read about more surprising ways to clean:
Weekly Cleaning Tips Put to the Test
Mint Robot Cleaner: We Tried It, You Win It

 

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Source: http://www.diylife.com/2011/03/29/clean-with-a-toothbrush/

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Hidden House Costs (and How to Fight Back)

Filed under: money, Essential Skills, Know-How, Living Spaces

You know your house comes with a whole hosts of costs. But do you know exactly how much? Here's how to reign in those hidden expenses.

ptkphoto

Repairs, utilities, even cleaning supplies -- there are obvious costs to maintaining a home. But some costs aren't so obvious. We're unveil the hidden money-eaters that are emptying your wallet slowly. Because, hey -- you worked hard for those bills! You should decide where they are going.

Hidden House Cost #1: Your Light Bulbs
Your electric company bills you per kilowatt hour. And because some light bulbs just don't give you very much light per watt, you can rack up a pretty pricey monthly charge. The culprits: Any bulb with a filament (that little squiggly wire) are not giving you the most bang for your buck.

Solution: Get rid of incandescent or any other type of filament bulbs. Replace with fluorescent, which are widely available due to new energy laws. You get the most light output for the smallest amount of wattage. For outdoor lighting, use metal halide or high-pressure sodium bulbs.

Hidden House Cost #2: Your Washing Machine
No matter how many people in your home, we bet you're doing laundry -- colors or towels -- at least once week. With a load always ready to be cleaned, the washing machine has a full-time job. And you need one too, to keep up with the bills!

Solution: Wash in cold water. Really, it's that simple. You save the money it would cost to heat the water for hot or warm cycles because you are eliminating the use of an additional utility. Whether your washing machine heat is via electricity, gas or oil, eliminating that process saves a ton.

Another washing machine tip for your house: Make sure the dial isn't on second rinse. Your clothes are washed and rinsed sufficiently with one cycle. Just be sure not to pour in too much soap, and you can eliminate the extra water usage.

Hidden House Cost #3: Leaks
No, we don't mean water. Your house is leaking in places you may not even know about. Miniscule openings around windows and doors can keep your air conditioner and heating system working overtime. (And your wallet paying the price.) Another source of leakage -- your roof. If insulation and shingling isn't installed tight enough, heat can escape in the winter and sneak in during the summer.

Solution: Make sure your house is properly insulated. Check window seams and doorways for any hints of airways. Invest in caulk to seal the passages. If you think the roof is your money-eating culprit, have a professional come to your house for an inspection.

For more money-saving tips...
5 Ways to Save Money in the Kitchen
How to Save Money on Electricity Video

 

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Source: http://www.diylife.com/2011/03/23/house-costs/

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How to Keep Wood Floors from Buckling and Cupping

Lynn asks, ?We recently had new siding put on our house, and now the wood flooring is starting to buckle. What could be the problem??

High humidity is usually the culprit when floors buckle. Read on to find out what to do about it.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/danny-lipford/~3/jVQGume2ctA/

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How-To: Make Your Own Faux-Zinc Letters

Typography in home decor has been a big trend for a while now, but those over-sized zinc letters you see tend to be pretty dang expensive.  Thankfully, we spotted this great tutorial for making your own realistic looking (and cheap) DIY version.  

This simple project comes from Sugar and Charm, a blog that shares fabulous recipes and crafts that'll make your heart go pitter-patter.  It's easy, inexpensive, and on-trend, so let's get crafting!

To make your own faux-zinc letters you'll need:

• Cardboard Letters
• Foam Paint Brush
• Black Acrylic Paint
• Folk Art Pearl Paint

Once you're ready to get down with some fake zinc-age, head on over to Sugar and Charm for the full tutorial!

Source: http://curbly.com/capreek/posts/10081-how-to-make-your-own-faux-zinc-letters

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What pastry/baked good is it?

When you're gazing at the bakery window, some facts about pastries are apparent. Those cupcakes have chocolate icing, those tarts have cherries, and those doughy, sugar-sprinkled things look like they might be filled with Bavarian cream. Clearly, you love to ogle (and eat!) pastries and baked goods, but do you know what's in them? Take this quiz to find out!

Source: http://feeds.howstuffworks.com/~r/DailyStuff/~3/l1UiwCKtId4/pastry-baked-good-quiz.htm

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Live Wallpaper

Turn a blank wall opposite any window into a live action wallpaper by effectively turning the entire room into a giant camera obscura. The view from your window will be projected (upside down) onto the opposite wall with the use of only a bit of cardboard, tape, and a lens available from your local optician. The effect is pretty cool - but wouldn't it be possible to flip the image right side up again by using a second lens? [via]

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Diyhappy/~3/CHn-9F6orgc/live-wallpaper

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