When people think home renovation they tend to think about projects that can improve the inside of the house. But don’t forget how much you can enjoy the outside! Sitting outside on a pleasant summer evening can be very relaxing. Reading and even watching the kids play are all good reasons to go outside. But who wants to stand in the yard the whole time? Not us, that’s why we recommend the addition of a patio. Add a table and some chairs and you now have an outside dining area that will give you a change of pace and let you enjoy other areas of your property. But how exactly do you go about putting in a patio?

Surface Materials

First thing pick the materials that you want the base to be made of. Keep in mind that each type of material has a different look and price, both of which are important factors in deciding

• Concrete- Can be poured by a novice or a professional. It’s often your least expensive option.
• Outdoor Tile- Just like indoor varieties, there are a lot of options and look and price change with the options.
• Stone Veneer- A synthetic product, it is made in factories. Again there are a variety of looks.
• Pavers- Another factory produced option, you can choose from many sizes and colors.
• Brick- One of the oldest building materials in use besides stone. You can choose between contemporary and antique bricks depending upon what you are looking for and your budget.
• Stone- The most natural option. It can get pricy depending on which type of stone you like the best.

Other Supplies

• Shovel (square head shovel)

• Rocks (for all surface materials except cement)
• Sand (for all surface materials except cement)
• Sledge Hammer
• Hose
• Broom
• Wood Boards
• Measuring Tape
• Level
• Once you have gathered your building materials you are ready to get started.

1. Set the base- Decide where you want your patio to be. Clear the area of sod and debris. Dig down at least 6” to prepare for the foundation. Then use your wood boards to surround the area, this is your frame.
2. Lay the foundation- Once you have your frame, lay down the rocks and then pour the dirt over it. Use the shovel to level off the dirt, make sure your surface is flat. This will be your foundation. Allow the foundation to settle overnight.
3. Install the surface- If you chose concrete, your next step is to mix and pour the concrete and then level it. Most often people choose one of the other surface materials. If you did, now you will begin laying your pieces. Start in one of the corners. Lay the surface material so it is evenly spaced and level. The pieces should be separated but close together. (You can incorporate a pattern but for first timers we suggest sticking to this easier method.) Take plenty of breaks to use your level to ensure a smooth surface as you work. Press down firmly as you lay the material so it can begin to set.
4. Finishing- Once you have laid an even surface, pour some dirt over top, make sure it fills in between the cracks. Use a broom to sweep the dirt off the surface and into the cracks. Use the hose to gently spray water over the new patio, this will allow the dirt to compact between the surface pieces and help them stay together. After letting the patio set for a day, remove the wood frame.

Now you have a basic patio! Buy some patio furniture and enjoy the new addition to your yard. Let us know if you have any questions. Handyman Connection is proud to serve the home improvement and home repair needs of Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Bradenton, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Myers, Melbourne, Merritt Island & Titusville.

Your bathroom is one of the most used places in your house. The bathtub in particular gets as much or more use than any appliance that you own. Everyone who lives in a home uses the bathtub on a regular basis. Replacing an entire tub can be costly. Maybe you should consider converting your tub into a shower stall or revamping it with a bathtub conversion kit.

Change your tub into a shower stall

This option gives the bathroom an entirely new look. It is also an excellent option if accessibility is an issue, since stepping over the edge of the tub can be difficult.

• Cut your current tub: Some people choose to cut a space out of the side of their tub. This makes stepping in and out easier and is the best option if your motivation for the conversion is to help family members who need easier access to the tub. With this option you may want to install some additional grip handles on the walls of the stall for extra support for your loved ones.
• Install a shower kit over top- Other people prefer to pick out a conversion kit that fits over the top of your current tub. These kits come in a variety of colors and styles. They can be applied directly over your current tub which makes the process a lot simpler than an all-out replacement. Both options are generally less expensive than replacing your tub.

Keep a bathtub

Once again you have options. The wide variety of options is one of the reasons that converting a bathtub can be a fun project. You can create a new look regardless of which option you choose. In this case you get to choose between

• Resurfacing your bathtub- Maybe you like the way your bathtub looks except for its color. Or maybe the old tub’s surface has worn away with use. Resurfacing your tub will fix either scenario. Remember that if you resurface yourself, you will be working with a variety of chemicals that need to be handled carefully. Precautions need to be taken so you are safe. Regardless of whether you do it or you hire a professional, resurfacing will make your tub look brand new and it will definitely feel smoother to the touch.
• Purchase a conversion kit- Just like with the shower stall conversion, there are kits that will fit over your tub, turning it into a new one. This option lets you change everything about the way your tub looks because you can choose from different styles and finishes (maybe you are tired of porcelain and want marble for instance). One appealing option is turning your traditional tub into a whirlpool tub. Having massaging jets in your tub will help you relax, or in some cases even recover.

You can look up pictures on the internet or go to your local hardware store to see what all of these choices actually look like. You have so many options when converting a bathtub that you will definitely be able to find the one that fits you best. As always, if you have any questions about how to install, or would like the job done professionally, we are ready to help at Handyman Connection. Good luck and happy remodeling!

Handyman Connection is proud to serve the home improvement and home repair needs of Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Bradenton, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Myers, Melbourne, Merritt Island & Titusville.

Updates to your home make it more comfortable while you are living in it and add value in the event that you want to sell or draw equity. You can change the entire look of a room and add durability to your floor with properly installed tile. Making the remodel decision is easier than actually installing the tile, but following the right steps simplifies the process.

1. Gather your tools- Here are some of the things you will need:

1. Scrapers
2. Wedging tool
3. Sandpaper
4. Spacers
5. Level
6. Chalk string
7. Tile cutter
8. Knee pads
9. Measuring tape
10. Sponge
11. Grout
12. Tiles
13. Tile cement

2. Prepare the area- The underlying floor itself will need some work. Remove any old adhesives that may be left from the previous floor. Sealing cracks in concrete may also be necessary. You want your floor to be level all the way across, so that your new tile floor will be even and last for years. Also be aware of parts of the room that will require you to cut tiles. Thinking about this during the preparation stage will make the work more efficient during installation.

3. Find the center- The exact center of your floor is where you will begin laying the tile. First measure the center points of the walls of the room. Then stretch your chalk string from wall to wall, stretched from center point to center point. Now “snap” it down and it will leave chalk lines giving you an accurate center point of the floor.

4. Do a practice run- Lay tiles down without any adhesive. Use your spacers and make sure that you like the look and that the center has actually been found. A dry run is important because it easy to fix mistakes when you haven’t used any adhesive.

5. Install the tile- Once your floor is prepped, you know where center is and you have completed your practice run it is time to get started. You will be working on one small section at a time. Space out the section you will be working from (starting from the center of the room of course) and apply your chosen adhesive. Then carefully place tiles in straight lines. Use your spacers to help keep your floor uniform. Work quickly so that the adhesive dries against the back of the tiles, but don’t go so fast that you lay the floor unevenly. The corners of the tiles should be next to each other to obtain the look you want for your finished floor. When laying the tiles, place them in a downward motion in the place you want them to be. Do not slide them or wiggle them into place. Place them gently, apply some pressure to spread the adhesive and move on to the next tile.

6. Lay the grout- After you have installed the individual tiles, you will need to let the adhesive set. Your best bet is to let the tile set for 24 hours before you begin grouting.

1. Start by removing the spacers you put down during installation.
2. Next vacuum the crevices between the tiles to remove any excess dirt or pieces of flaked adhesive.
3. Next mix your grout according to the instructions.
4. Spread the grout evenly over the open portions between the tiles. Make sure you are using enough to completely fill the gaps. Like with the tile installation, work in one section at a time.
5. Once you have spread the grout, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe any grout that may be on the tile itself. Do this right away so that the grout does not have time to dry. You only want grout in between tiles, not on top of them.
6. Look over the whole floor when you are done grouting to make sure you have been consistent in all areas. This will be the best time to fix mistakes because once the grout sets it is very difficult to fix mistakes.

Consulting with a professional is a good idea before you begin any home improvement project. We are available to provide tips for projects you decide to undertake yourself. We can also reduce your workload and do the installation for you, ensuring a professional finish.

Handyman Connection is proud to serve the home improvement and home repair needs of Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Bradenton, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Myers, Melbourne, Merritt Island & Titusville.

Remodeling a bathroom is one of the best ways to add function and value to a home. Whether you are an ambitious do-it-yourselfer ready to undertake a complete remodel, or prefer to let the pros handle it, knowing the right steps can make the process go more smoothly. Follow these simple steps to take your bathroom remodeling project from concept to reality.

1. Draw up a budget—and commit to it. Be realistic about the cost associated with a bathroom remodel. Replacing fixtures, flooring, and other materials can really cost you. Make a bathroom “wish list,” do some research on cost, and then decide on the scope of your project.
2. Consult the experts. Even if you plan to do the work yourself, talk to a licensed independent contractor and get an estimate for the work. He’ll be able to estimate how much labor is really involved and point out any items you may not have considered, such as replacing that ancient plumbing.
3. Check on permits. If a contractor is doing the remodeling, he should take care of all the permits for you. Avoid a contractor who says he is unable to pull permits, or asks you to pull your own permits. Putting the permits in your name makes you liable for any errors or damage, even if the contractor made the mistake.
4. Choose your new materials. Keeping your budget in mind, decide on a new look for the bathroom, and choose materials accordingly. While it’s important to consider current trends in home design, your family’s needs are just as important. If the bathroom will get lots of use, go for durable materials that are relatively easy to clean.
5. Do the demolition. For many people, this is the most exciting part of any renovation project. But be careful not to damage underlying plumbing, along with any materials, such as flooring, that may be sticking around after the remodeling.
6. Install the new fixtures. Put in the items that require plumbing first: the tub or shower; sink; and toilet. These should go in before any tile, so that tile can be cut properly to fit around it. It’s advisable to let a professional do this step, because some seemingly minor details—like the shower drain—can cause major problems if installed incorrectly.
7. Lay the tile and flooring. Laying tile is a painstaking process. Be sure to complete each step properly, carefully cutting tiles with a wet saw if necessary. Plan on a few broken or mis-cut tiles when purchasing supplies. Meanwhile, be sure to space tiles precisely and allow plenty of time for the adhesive to dry before applying grout.
8. Paint the walls. Some people recommend painting before installing new fixtures and tile, to avoid paint spills. But carefully painting around these items can save on paint and create a more finished look. It also prevents the need to touch up walls that get scratched or marred during other installations.
9. Put in new light fixtures. Choose fixtures that match the overall look and feel of the bathroom, but provide sufficient light for tasks like applying make-up and shaving. Consider adding spotlights in the shower or in other areas that might get dim.
10. Add those finishing details. Install crown molding, baseboards, and hardware. These touches make the bathroom look complete and polished. If you plan on eventually reselling the home, go for a clean, understated look that will appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers.

Remodeling a bathroom is a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By working through the process one step at a time, anyone can create a beautiful bathroom.

A running toilet is more than just a minor annoyance—it’s also an expense. Caused by a leaky valve, the running means that extra water is constantly being cycled through the toilet, resulting in hefty water bills. But this home repair is easy and inexpensive to make, usually requiring no more than a quick trip to the hardware store and a $5.00 part.

What Causes a Running Toilet

A toilet tank contains a reservoir of water that cycles into the toilet bowl whenever the toilet is flushed. To maintain the proper level of water, the tank has a float and lever system to regulate flow. With each flush, a valve at the bottom of the tank opens up, releasing water into the toilet bowl. The tank begins to refill, and when the float reaches the right level, water stops flowing into the tank.

The valve’s rubber cover, called a flapper, can degrade or warp over time. Eventually the flapper no longer seals the valve tightly, and water can leak through into the bowl. Once this seal is compromised, water never stops flowing from the tank to the bowl, nor does it stop flowing into the tank. That constant flow creates the familiar running noise, along with the increased water bills.

How to Fix It

Repairing a running toilet is a simple procedure. Begin by turning off the water to the toilet: find the water shut-off handle, usually located near the toilet’s base, and turn it to stop water flow. Next, remove the old flapper valve. Take this with you to the hardware store, to ensure that you buy the right replacement part.

The new flapper valve should be relatively inexpensive and take less than ten minutes to install. Turn the water back on, and give the toilet a flush to test it out. Monitor both the toilet and the water bill, to make sure there are no other hidden problems. If the running persists, it’s probably time to contact a professional plumber.

Do-it-yourself home repair is both rewarding and cost effective, especially for easy projects like repairing a running toilet. Skip the expensive plumbing visit and repair it yourself.

Hurricane season is in full swing, and now is the time to protect your home in case of severe weather.  One of the most effective ways to protect your home—and your family—is with storm or hurricane shutters.  Properly installed hurricane shutters protect against flying debris, prevent water damage, and even help maintain the integrity of your roof. 

Who needs storm shutters?

Anyone who lives in an area that could be affected by severe storms should invest in hurricane shutters.  In Florida, that means virtually anyone living on the peninsula, since hurricanes have been known to cross the state, affecting areas far from the coast.  Even if you live in an evacuation area, it’s still important to protect your home and possessions with hurricane shutters.

Why do I need hurricane shutters?

Hurricane shutters prevent debris from coming through a window.  In addition to protecting family members from injury, storm shutters also prevent broken windows—and the water damage that can result as rain comes through broken windows.  Meanwhile, broken windows can let in wind and produce extra pressure on the walls and ceiling of a home, causing walls to buckle or the roof to give way.

Usually I just tape my windows. Isn’t that enough?

Tape does not protect against broken windows.  It simply holds the broken glass together.  Meanwhile, as the adhesive gets hot in the sun over time, it can become extremely difficult to remove.  If you must leave a window shutter-free (for instance as an emergency exit), consider covering it with protective film. 

When should I install storm shutters?

Ideally, shutters should be installed during home construction.  Since this usually doesn’t happen, the next best option is to install shutters prior to the onset of severe weather.  Don’t wait until a Hurricane Watch is issued, because most home repair companies will be extremely busy and it may be difficult to get someone to install the shutters in time.    

Can I install hurricane shutters myself?

Depending on the kind of shutters you choose, you may be able to install them yourself.  More cumbersome shutters, such as those made of steel or those with an automatic mechanism, should be installed by a professional.

Where can I find a trustworthy professional to install my shutters?

First check with friends and family, or call the local Better Business Bureau to find a reputable independent contractor.  Most importantly, be sure to select a contractor who has all the proper licenses.  During storm season, dishonest repairmen tend to pop up, since so many people are looking for work done in a hurry. 

What kind of shutters are best?

Steel hurricane shutters offer the most protection, but they are also the most expensive and difficult to install.  Aluminum provides a satisfactory alternative, although they do not always meet building code.  Consider your family’s needs when choosing shutters.  Older adults may prefer hurricane shutters that have an automatic mechanism or accordion design.  If money is tight, carefully measure plywood to fit the inside of each window.   

Installing sturdy hurricane shutters is a critical step in hurricane preparedness.  Protect your home, property, and family with durable shutters that can withstand the elements. 

Sources:

http://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/shutters/index1.html

http://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/shutters/index3.html

Embarking on a home improvement or renovation project can be both exciting and daunting: in addition to improving the look and functionality of your home, you’re also required to trust relative strangers with your most valuable asset. That’s why it’s so important to choose a contractor carefully. Using an unlicensed contractor can have serious consequences.

Why Look for the License

Although many contractors without proper licensure may be perfectly competent and honest, using an unlicensed contractor places the homeowner at the risk of assuming undue liability. For instance, if the contractor or one of his employees is injured on a homeowner’s property, the contractor can sue the homeowner for damages.

Meanwhile, unlicensed contractors often cut corners by neglecting to pull proper permits or asking the homeowner to pull them. Either way, the homeowner assumes all responsibility for both improperly filed paperwork and any code violations. If another person’s property (say, the neighbor’s lawn) is damaged, the homeowner would also be financially responsible.

These liabilities may seem like a stretch, but they are not as rare as homeowners might think. Furthermore, unlicensed contractors often do not complete a job correctly—or at all. They may not have the necessary expertise to finish a project right, or they may even take your deposit and skip town. One common problem is that they fail to “finish the job” the way the homeowner expected. For example, after replacing pipes, they may not patch the holes in the walls.

Spotting an Unlicensed Contractor

During the contractor selection process, homeowners can look for signs that a contractor may not carry the proper credentials:

• Cheap or free marketing tactics, such as local flyers or placing business cards on community bulletin boards
• Extremely low bids, especially fixed-price estimates that don’t require the contractor to visit your home or determine the true scope of the project
• Demanding the entire price of the project in advance, which is common for people who plan to “take the money and run”
• Producing only an occupancy or out-of-state license, neither of which are valid in Florida
• Saying that they are working “under” someone else’s license, which is only applicable for legitimate employees of the same company
• Displaying only a PO Box or having a long-distance phone number, indicating a potential “fly-by-night” operation

Sticking with licensed contractors gives homeowners the most protection—and the best guarantees of craftsmanship. For your next home repair or renovation project, look for a licensed contractor who has an excellent track record within your community.

Homeowners who may want to sell their home in the coming years will probably continue to face a tough market. One option for improving a home’s appeal—and increasing the resale value—is remodeling. Meanwhile, these projects also enhance a home’s livability. Each year, Remodeling magazine publishes statistics on the return on investment (ROI) that homeowners can expect from different remodeling projects, based on where they live. The ten projects below give the most bang for your remodeling buck!

1. Entry door replacement: Invest in an attractive steel door for the front of your home, and enjoy an average 128.9% return. Why so high? The entryway is usually the focal point of the house, so this project improves curb appeal and can also offer extra security.
2. Converting the attic to a bedroom: Add a functional bedroom with closet space and a full bathroom, for an 83.1% ROI. For this statistic, Remodeling looked at bedrooms that were at least 15 x 15 and used eave space for extra storage.
3. Adding a wooden deck: Enjoy the outdoors year round—and recoup about 80% of your money with a wooden deck. Composite decks also less return, around 71%. Lesson: stick with high quality materials for this outdoor project.
4. Replace vinyl siding: Like replacing the door, putting in new siding can significantly improve a home’s appearance. Return on siding replacement averages 79.9%. Stick with neutral colors for the best return and overall appeal.
5. Minor kitchen remodeling: Give an already-functional kitchen a facelift with new laminate countertops, energy-efficient stove and range, and fresh paint, and enjoy about 78.3% return. A minor kitchen remodel maintains the same structure, but improves appearance.
6. Install new wooden windows: New windows not only give your home a “fresh face,” but they can also improve energy efficiency. Home buyers reward that investment, and this project garners a 77.3% ROI.
7. Install new vinyl windows: Vinyl windows closely follow wooden ones for adding value, with a 76.6% return. The trim color on the windows should complement the siding, and neutral shades are generally the best bet.
8. Remodel the basement: Although this option isn’t common in Florida, it is a popular renovation elsewhere in the South Atlantic region—likely because it pays off about 75% of the homeowner’s investment. To qualify, the basement must be finished and air conditioned/heated.
9. Major kitchen remodel: With a 72.1% return, a major kitchen remodel can be worth the investment, particularly if you plan in staying in the home and enjoying the added functionality for a while before you sell. A major remodel entails ripping out existing cabinets, changing the layout of the kitchen, and new appliances.
10. Redo the bathroom: Use quality materials like tile and porcelain for a higher-end, finished look in the bathroom. Couple that with the finishing touches, like new faucets and towel racks, and enjoy a 71% return on your investment.

The key to maximizing your home improvement dollars is to do the job right the first time. Start with durable materials that will add to the home’s appearance, and don’t forget the details like paint, molding, and baseboards!

Homeowners who may want to sell their home in the coming years will probably continue to face a tough market. One option for improving a home’s appeal—and increasing the resale value—is remodeling. Meanwhile, these projects also enhance a home’s livability. Each year, Remodeling magazine publishes statistics on the return on investment (ROI) that homeowners can expect from different remodeling projects, based on where they live. The ten projects below give the most bang for your remodeling buck!

1. Entry door replacement: Invest in an attractive steel door for the front of your home, and enjoy an average 128.9% return. Why so high? The entryway is usually the focal point of the house, so this project improves curb appeal and can also offer extra security.
2. Converting the attic to a bedroom: Add a functional bedroom with closet space and a full bathroom, for an 83.1% ROI. For this statistic, Remodeling looked at bedrooms that were at least 15 x 15 and used eave space for extra storage.
3. Adding a wooden deck: Enjoy the outdoors year round—and recoup about 80% of your money with a wooden deck. Composite decks also less return, around 71%. Lesson: stick with high quality materials for this outdoor project.
4. Replace vinyl siding: Like replacing the door, putting in new siding can significantly improve a home’s appearance. Return on siding replacement averages 79.9%. Stick with neutral colors for the best return and overall appeal.
5. Minor kitchen remodeling: Give an already-functional kitchen a facelift with new laminate countertops, energy-efficient stove and range, and fresh paint, and enjoy about 78.3% return. A minor kitchen remodel maintains the same structure, but improves appearance.
6. Install new wooden windows: New windows not only give your home a “fresh face,” but they can also improve energy efficiency. Home buyers reward that investment, and this project garners a 77.3% ROI.
7. Install new vinyl windows: Vinyl windows closely follow wooden ones for adding value, with a 76.6% return. The trim color on the windows should complement the siding, and neutral shades are generally the best bet.
8. Remodel the basement: Although this option isn’t common in Florida, it is a popular renovation elsewhere in the South Atlantic region—likely because it pays off about 75% of the homeowner’s investment. To qualify, the basement must be finished and air conditioned/heated.
9. Major kitchen remodel: With a 72.1% return, a major kitchen remodel can be worth the investment, particularly if you plan in staying in the home and enjoying the added functionality for a while before you sell. A major remodel entails ripping out existing cabinets, changing the layout of the kitchen, and new appliances.
10. Redo the bathroom: Use quality materials like tile and porcelain for a higher-end, finished look in the bathroom. Couple that with the finishing touches, like new faucets and towel racks, and enjoy a 71% return on your investment.

The key to maximizing your home improvement dollars is to do the job right the first time. Start with durable materials that will add to the home’s appearance, and don’t forget the details like paint, molding, and baseboards!

If you’ve been shopping around for home remodeling or repairs, you may have noticed that most companies advertise that they are licensed or certified. But what does that actually mean, and what benefit does it afford homeowners? The licensure and certification process ensures that contractors are authorized to perform certain tasks in your area. There are multiple levels of certification that contractors can attain:

• City and County Licensure: Depending on the area, most cities require a contractor to hold a city license. Some counties may also have the same mandate. In Florida, contractors have the option of applying for state-wide certification, which allows them to complete work anywhere within Florida. This certification is more expensive and requires more documentation, so it is less common. In the state of Florida, consumers can search for contractors and find out whether they have proper licensure through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
• Proper Insurance: In the unlikely event of an accident, insurance protects you from unexpected expense and headache. A contractor’s insurance covers expenses incurred due to installation error, unforeseen damage, and other complications. In some cases the contractor may also be bonded. This is more common for contractors who take large jobs that require third-party financing, such as whole-house remodels.
• Job-Specific Licensure: In Florida, companies must hold separate licenses for expertise that requires specific training. For instance, contractors must obtain licensure for electrical work and asbestos abatement. Be sure that your contractor holds all the necessary licenses if multiple projects will be completed.

Other excellent measures of a contractor’s reliability include registration with the Better Business Bureau. The Better Business Bureau sets high standards for businesses and gives consumers and excellent resource for researching potential merchants and service providers.

Beyond the usual government requirements, a contractor may have earned local recognition for outstanding service or community involvement. Check out the contractor’s website to learn more. Any additional accolades indicate that a business has truly gone “above and beyond” what’s required, to deliver superlative products and service.

The certification and licensure process offers consumers basic protection against fraud and poor workmanship. The best contractors will go beyond the basics, obtaining extra credentials to earn their customers’ trust.