How a House Works

Get information on how a house works including structure, home protection, home improvements and more.

How a House Works: Featured DIY Projects

Insulate Basement Rim Joists

In just a couple of hours, you can seal and insulate your rim joists, which are ...

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TIME COST
One day $100 - $500
How to Stop Chimney Water Leaks

The concrete crowns of masonry chimneys often crack with age, allowing water to...

TIME COST
One day Varies

How a House Works: Other DIY Projects you may like

  • The Pros and Cons of Halogen Bulbs

  • Before you buy your next light bulb, know when and where halogens are worth the extra money over ordinary incandescent bulbs.

  • How to Have a Mouse-Free House

  • This article will show you how to critter-proof your house. Follow this advice to get rid of pests once they find a way into your home. You'll also find tips to make sure they never get inside your house again.

  • How to Install Stone Facing

  • We'll show you how to install stone facing on your house. This do-it-yourself alternative to real brick and stone doesn't require a brick ledge. Unlike earlier versions of artificial stone that looked fake, newer faux stone looks...Read more»

  • Tips for Finishing Drywall

  • Learn the drywall taping tips and techniques that pros use to speed up their work. Avoid irritating problems like lumpy mud, nail pops and tape bubbles, and get a better looking job every time.

  • How to Build Window Headers and Door Headers

  • Want to add a new window or door to an exterior weight-bearing wall? We’ll explain how headers work and give you some tips on how to design the opening so it supports the weight of your house. You’ll learn how to...Read more»

  • Cleaning Air Conditioners in the Spring

  • Few routine chores will pay off more handsomely, both in comfort and in dollars saved, than a simple air-conditioner cleaning. The payoff: Summertime comfort and lower cooling bills. You'll also prolong the life of your...Read more»

  • Save Energy by Closing Heat Registers

  • It seems like a waste to heat unused rooms, but closing heat registers may actually increase heating costs, especially with newer systems.

  • How to Repair a Load-Bearing Post

  • Learn to identify the most common causes of floor sagging—and what to do about it. Learn the best tools and methods for lifting and shoring a load-bearing beam and the steps to safely replace a rotted post.

  • How to Rekey a Door Lock

  • Learn to rekey your entry and deadbolt locks like a pro, and at a fraction of the cost, using a rekeying kit. Instead of calling a locksmith when a key is lost, rekey the door lock yourself and save.

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