“Generally, framing materials are treated to withstand moisture and rain during the construction process,” says Russell Vent, vice president of Paul Davis Restoration. “That being said, most residential home builders are, more often than not, not savvy when it comes to structural drying, mold prevention or mold remediation.”

If you think your house might have been built in the rain, or if you are worried about buying one that was, here’s what to consider.

Why You Should Avoid Buying a House That Was Built in the Rainy Season

Structural Damage

It is possible that rain can cause structural damage to houses under construction. Particle board will definitely become compromised if it gets wet, which is why it’s rarely used for sheathing.

Plywood is the most desirable sheathing because of its moisture resistance. However, it’s also expensive, which is why many builders choose oriented strand board (OSB). OSB is also water-resistant, but under persistent moisture, it can swell, and once it does, it will not return to its original dimensions.

“Houses built in the wetter months also tend to have dimensional challenges that homes built during dryer times of the year don’t experience,” says Josh Rudin, owner of ASAP Restoration. “This means that a straight piece of wood today might turn into a corkscrew come the dry season.”

While that likely won’t affect the structure’s safety, it could lead to creaking, cracking and other strange noises, especially when outside temperatures change.

Mold

Mold needs prolonged moisture to grow, so if a house frame gets wet but dries in a timely fashion, mold shouldn’t be an issue. But if the frame or sheathing is exposed to prolonged moisture or is damp when it is sealed up with house wrap, insulation and drywall, that moisture inside can manifest into mold.

“Concerns should be focused on the prolonged moisture,” says Vent. “If I turned on the hose and wet the wood subfloor, and then allowed it to dry out over the next few days, there would be a much less likelihood for mold growth than if I sprayed that same hose every day for three days, or if after I wet that wood floor, I quickly installed vinyl plank flooring before it had a chance to dry.”

How Do I Know If My House Was Built in the Rainy Season?

If your house was built in the rain, you might see signs of water damage, like staining on drywall and exposed wood or rust on metal components, all of which could be signs of serious structural problems.

“Even finished homes can show signs of stress in the form of cracks in drywall and uneven surfaces,” says Rudin. “Typically, the building inspector will force corrections on things like this before they get that far down the line, but it is still possible they’ve missed them, or those clues weren’t present yet during the inspection.”

Otherwise, to gauge how concerned you should be, you can check weather records for when your house was built, plus ask the builder about their water mitigation practices, such as whether they cover frames during stormy weather or promptly clear standing water from foundations.

“Everyone should assume that as their home was being built it, experience rain or other weather,” says Vent. But “I also wouldn’t be extremely alarmed if my home got wet during the initial stages on construction. It happens, but how the home builder is prepared to deal with it should be a point of understanding.”

What to Do to Avoid Mold If My House was Built in the Rain

If you are worried or suspect your home was built carelessly during rain or snow, hire a professional inspector to evaluate it for high humidity, wet building materials, construction flaws and mold, says Vent. “Mold inspectors, home Inspectors, industrial hygienists and indoor environmental professional’s (IEP’s) are a great place to start, and often do not come at a huge price point,” he says.

If they find mold, have it professionally remediated, says Rudin. Otherwise, try to keep everything as dry as possible. Use fans and dehumidifiers to vent moisture-prone areas like crawlspaces and basements, prevent condensation on windows and seal up any areas that might be letting moisture into your home.

“This means keeping wood, drywall and any fabrics or porous surfaces free from standing water,” says Rudin. “Mold spores live in the air around us all the time, and there is no way to prevent their growth other than to prevent the environment that they need to live from existing inside your home.”

About the Experts

• Russell Vent is the Vice President of Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Rochester, New York, a disaster management, mitigation and restoration network with 350 locations in the U.S. and Canada.
• Josh Rudin is the owner of ASAP Restoration in Tempe Arizona. He started the company as a one-man operation in 2008, and today it has grown into one of the city’s top disaster mitigation specialists.

The post Why Buying a House Built in the Rain Might Be a Bad Idea appeared first on Family Handyman.

While it’s impossible to know exactly how the economy or any industry will look a year or even a month from now, there are some trends we can predict in the housing industry in the wake of lowered interest rates. Here’s what we know about how the Fed rate cut might shape the next few years of housing in the United States.

Impact on the Housing Industry

One of the main factors limiting housing growth over the last few years has been a lack of inventory. There simply have not been enough houses being built. Contractors are optimistic this could change if this rate cut is the first of many and incentivizes builders to take out more loans and invest more in new construction.

If we have a series of rate cuts over the next three to six months, that will likely start to show up in lower construction [loan] rates and greater availability of equity investment toward the end of this year and into next year, John Sullivan, chair of the U.S. real estate practice at DLA Piper, a London-based law firm, told Construction Dive. As rates come down, borrowing costs will also come down for many projects, and there will be more real estate investment and construction activity.

That’s a hopeful prognosis, largely dependent on further interest rate cuts that may or may not happen. It does make logical sense: if the Fed continues its rate-dropping trend, construction activity will likely increase. Unfortunately, interest rates are not the only factor limiting the growth of the home-building industry.

“Because we lost about a million construction workers during the Great Recession, we still lack that. So we need people desperately to come into the trades,” Danushka Nanayakkara-Skillington, the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) associate vice president of forecasting, told Business Insider. She noted that along with the labor shortage, material prices have also hampered housing for the last few years and contributed to those subdued production levels.

Still, this interest rate cut is certainly a step in the right direction and puts housing on a better path toward renewed growth. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, which tracks builder optimism in the current state of the housing market, rose two points in the wake of the Fed’s announcement.

The macroeconomy is starting to right itself, said Jim Tobin, CEO of the NAHB, on NAHB’s podcast Housing Developments. So now is the time for lawmakers whether at the federal level or state or local level to jump on the housing bandwagon and get ready for that growth.

Impact on Home Buyers

On the other side of the market are home buyers waiting for mortgage rates to drop from historically high levels. While mortgage rates did hit 6.4% (their lowest point in over a year) in early September, buyers have still been reluctant to sign on to such a high rate. In fact, the NAHB recently reported that new home sales fell in August due in part to homebuyers waiting to make a move until after the Fed announced the rate cut.

But will the Fed’s rate cut actually spark a trend of mortgage rates dropping? Experts say it’s unlikely, at least in the immediate aftermath. In fact, we might see a bit of an uptick.

Weve seen the bulk of the easing that were going to get already this year, said Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com told Finance and Commerce. I wouldnt be entirely surprised if mortgage rates ticked up a bit from here before declining again.

Whether or not mortgage rates continue to decrease beyond this year depends on how the economy responds. If the economy remains sluggish, the Fed may be forced to cut rates even more drastically.

Ultimately, the pace of mortgage and Fed rate declines will be dictated by economic data, Rob Cook, vice president at Discover Home Loans, told Finance and Commerce. If future data shows that the economy is slowing more than expected, it would increase pressure for the Fed to take more aggressive action with rate cuts, which would likely translate into lower mortgage rates available to consumers.

If mortgage rates do eventually fall below 5% again, homeowners with high mortgage rates would be motivated to sell which, in turn, would help ease the housing industry’s inventory problem. However, experts say it will be at least 2027 before mortgage rates tumble that far.

Sources:

• CNBC: Fed slashes interest rates by a half point; September 2024
• Construction Dive: Construction pros expect interest rate cut to spur new work; September 2024
• Business Insider: Rate cuts might make it cheaper to buy a house…; September 2024
• NAHB: NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI); September 2024
• NAHB: Podcast: What Fed Rate Cut Means for Housing; September 2024
• CNBC: Mortgage rates hit lowest level since February 2023; September 2024
• NAHB: New Home Sales Fall in August as Buyers Wait Out Anticipated Rate Cut; September 2024
• Finance and Commerce: Feds rate cut likely to have minimal effect on mortgage rates this year: September 2024
• Business Insider: Will mortgage rates go down this year?; September 2024

The post What the Fed Rate Cut Means for Housing and Home Buyers appeared first on Family Handyman.

There are other three-in-one leaf vacuums, but Worx is one of the most talked about options among lawn enthusiasts due to its efficiency and various attachments, including one that places mulched leaves directly in your garbage can.

Read on to see what our testers had to say about the Worx Leaf Vacuum, whether it’s worth the price and how it stacks up to the competition.

What is the Worx Leaf Vacuum?

The Worx Leaf Vacuum is an electric three-in-one leaf blower, vacuum and mulcher that switches modes with the turn of a knob. On the blower setting, you get a two-speed operation with a wide-mouth tube. It has a maximum air capacity of 620 cubic feet per minute (CFM).

For those who don’t know, CFM measures the amount of air pushed out by a blower. First-time leaf blower or vacuum buyers may instinctively look for how fast a machine can blow (the Worx Leaf Vacuum reaches 70 miles per hour), but you also want to look for a high CFM if you have a larger yard.

The vacuum setting sucks up the leaves that are then mulched by a metal impeller at an 18:1 ratio (18 bags of leaves can fit into one). The leaves can be vacuumed into a bag worn over your shoulder or directly into a garbage can using the LeafPro collection system.

“As a gardener who likes to compost, the option to collect leaves directly into a garbage can is a nice feature,” says product tester Sheri Kaz, who’s been gardening since she was a child.

This is a corded model, so it might not be the best fit for people with larger yards. Our testers say the cord length was only 7 inches, and the vacuum has a tube length of 19.5 inches, so you’ll need an extension cord to reach every corner of your yard.

Looking to pull the plug on your gardening tools? We tested and reviewed the best cordless leaf blowers.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$94.85 at Amazon

Worx 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum

$94.85 at Amazon

Worx Leaf Vacuum Features

Three-in-One Functionality

Three-in-one leaf cleaning tools are becoming more popular, and it’s easy to see why. Nobody wants to drop money on several products, and it’s annoying to have to go in and out of the garage every 10 minutes to get a new machine. The Worx Leaf Vacuum has a knob that switches it from a leaf blower to a vacuum with mulching capabilities.

Kaz says the push-and-turn knob is easy, so we rated it a 5 out of 5 when it came to the ease of alternating between functions.

Leaf Blower

Let’s examine the Worx Leaf Vacuum as a blower. It has a maximum CFM of 620 and a 70-mile-per-hour air speed with a wide-mouth tube. This combination makes it great for people who have a large amount of leaves and aren’t in a rush. The lower speed, however, means it might not pick up wet leaves or heavy debris as well as more powerful blowers.

Kaz says the 9-pound machine feels lightweight in her hand, though she notes that it only has one handle, so it’s harder to distribute the weight evenly. This causes the user to tire quicker than with blowers that have a second grip.

Our testers also noted the cord was cumbersome, though the obvious benefit is you don’t have to wait for it to charge like other electric options. “The cord unplugged easily, so the machine kept getting disconnected from the extension cord and powering down,” Kaz adds.

There are two speeds to pick from, depending on where you are in your cleanup. The first setting is for more precise blowing, whereas the second speed is for blowing leaves “everywhere,” Kaz says. She says it’s easy to switch speeds while continuing to blow.

For those looking for a dedicated leaf blower, check out our Ego Leaf Blower review.

Leaf Vacuum With Mulching Capabilities

Our testers noted the Worx Leaf Vacuum had no trouble sucking up the leaves or mulching them. “It mulches leaves very finely,” Kaz says. She notes there were several times you could see dust or dirt coming out of the bag, though this happened with every electric leaf vacuum we tested.

Worx claims their leaf vacuum has an 18:1 mulch ratio, which means it turns 18 bags of leaves into one.

There were some difficulties with getting the mulched leaves into either disposal system.

“Many of the small pieces collect on and get stuck in the wrinkles of the LeafPro bag versus making it to the trash bin,” Kaz says. When using the shoulder strap bag, she says there were times she had to hand-feed clumps into the tube because they were getting stuck.

Our testers spent about five minutes and 50 seconds vacuuming and mulching dry leaves. Vacuuming and mulching a similar amount of wet leaves took just one minute and five seconds, and a lot less dust was created.

Bag/Trash Can Disposal

The Worx Leaf Vacuum comes with ashoulder-strap bag similar to theHusqvarna Backpack Blower. You can alsoadd the LeafPro attachment to your order so the mulch goes straight into a garbage can. The best part of the latter is that it’s a universal attachment, so it should work with other companies’ vacuums.

Kaz says the shoulder strap bag offers a bit more maneuverability and helps with stability.

Check out our picks for the best backpack leaf blowers.

The LeafPro attachment is a great feature, though it requires you to drag your garbage can around the yard or get all the leaves to one central location.

Quiet

The Worx Leaf Vacuum is much quieter than gas models and is quieter than other electric models. Our testers measured the decibel rating, the unit of measurement used for sound, at 96.8 for the blower and 90.5 for the vacuum (both on their highest setting).

Noise levels of around 100 decibels are considered dangerous and prolonged exposure to those noises could result in hearing loss, so we recommend wearing ear plugs or other hearing protection if you plan on using it for long.

How We Tested It

Our expert product testers analyzed the Worx alongside some of the best-selling leaf vacuums. Before we tried them, we researched standalone vacuums and three-in-one options based on industry rankings, customer reviews, brand reputation and price.

We then used the Worx Leaf Vacuum and the other models to clean up more than 500 gallons of leaves, dry and wet, for 45 hours to collect hundreds of data points on their performance.

Pros

• Unlimited runtime
• 18:1 mulch ratio
• Easy to switch between blower and vacuum
• LeafPro attachment for direct deposit into a trash bin
• Lightweight
• Versatile

Cons

• Only one handle

• Cord can be annoying to deal with

Why You Should Trust Us

Family Handyman has been researching and testing gardening and lawn care equipment for years, and our expert product testers have used models from all the big and small brands. Many of us are homeowners with large yards that we care for year-round, including when it comes time for leaf cleanup in the fall.

Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer have tested multiple leaf vacuums and three-in-one combination blowers/vacuums/mulchers, including the Worx Leaf Vacuum. They researched all specs and features and tested the leaf vacuum in real-life situations to compare its performance to the manufacturer’s promises and the competition.

Kaz has been gardening for more than 30 years. She started on her family’s Midwest farm, where she planted her first garden as a child, and now helps clients with exterior design, including gardens and hardscapes.

Fischer has tested hundreds of products for Family Handyman, Taste of Home and Reader’s Digest.

FAQ

Which Worx leaf vacuum is best?

In our opinion, the Worx Trivac Three-in-One Electric Leaf Blower/Vacuum/Mulcher is the best Worx leaf vacuum because it combines three machines into one. Our expert product testers said it performed well when sucking and mulching leaves, though it only has one handle, so it’s not the most stable when being used as a blower.

What is the difference between Worx 512 and 509?

The Worx 512 has a maximum cubic feet per minute (CFM) output of 620, compared to the Worx 509’s 350 CFM. This means the 512 can move more leaves per minute, though the 509 has a higher air speed at 210 MPH compared to the 509’s 75 MPH, so it’s better for heavier debris or wet leaves.

Finally, the 509 has an 18:1 mulching ratio, and the 512 has a 16:1.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

As of this writing, the Worx Trivac Three-in-One Electric Leaf Blower/Vacuum/Mulcher has an average rating of 4.2 on Amazon, with nearly 4,700 of the 7,500 ratings being five stars.

“Now, I gotta tell ya, this Worx leaf blower is a Southern yard’s best friend,” writes five-star Amazon reviewer Cory. “It’s powerful like a thunderstorm, but easy to handle like a gentle breeze. It ain’t too heavy either, so you won’t be strainin’ yourself tryin’ to tame them leaves.”

Although there aren’t many negative reviews, some customers claim it has a short lifespan or fails to deliver on its promises. “It lacks sufficient power as a leaf blower and struggles to mulch effectively,” writes one-star Amazon reviewer Suzanne B. “The vacuum function is weak and often clogs. The build feels cheap, and it’s not as versatile or efficient as advertised.”

Worx Leaf Vacuum vs DR Leaf Vacuum

The DR Leaf Vacuum has leaf vacuuming and mulching capabilities like the Worx Leaf Vacuum, but instead of also having a blower, it serves as a wood chipper that can break down branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter.

“Anyone who has to spend a lot of time raking up branches on their lawn will undoubtedly find themselves using this feature a lot,” Fischer says of the chipping capabilities of the DR Leaf Vacuum.

So obviously, the DR is a better choice for those who have more branches in their yard than the average person. Let’s compare the two just as vacuums/mulchers. The DR is the easy choice for people with larger yards, as you can fit up to 50 pounds of leaves in one bag. The Worx fits up to eight gallons of mulched leaves when using the bag, and the LeafPro attachment is only limited by the size of your garbage can, though the cord limits how far you can go unless you have a long extension cord.

The DR is also much quicker. Our testers cleared wet and dry leaves in about a minute. The Worx took more than five minutes with dry leaves and just over a minute with wet leaves.

The Worx wins on price, at under $200. The DR Leaf Vacuum costs around $2,500. Our testers also noted the DR vacuum created a lot more dust and recommended wearing eye protection when using it. The Worx vacuum created some dust, but not enough to be a nuisance.

Final Verdict

The Worx Leaf Vacuum is a cost-friendly and versatile tool that can help speed up your leaf-cleaning duties. While it’s not perfect, especially when it comes to stability, it offers a lot of bang for your buck.

We recommend it for people with small or mid-sized yards who want to use one machine for leaf cleaning. Be aware that it only has one handle, so you’ll need a strong grip to distribute the weight evenly. Also, our testers said it’s not uncommon for leaves to get clogged in the tube.

The cord provides an unlimited runtime, though you’ll need an extension cord if you want to walk around with it.

Where to Buy the Worx Leaf Vacuum

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$94.85 at Amazon

$99 at Lowe's

$159 at Home Depot

Shop on Worx

Worx 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Yard Vacuum

$94.85 at Amazon

$99 at Lowe's

$159 at Home Depot

Shop on Worx

The Worx Leaf Vacuum is available on Amazon for under $125 with free delivery. It is also available at The Home Depot, Lowe’s and the Worx website.

The post Worx Leaf Vaccum Review: Does This Three-in-One Blower/Vacuum/Mulcher Beat the Competition? appeared first on Family Handyman.

One of our favorite leaf blowers that also functions as a leaf vacuum is the Craftsman backpack leaf blower. It’s powerful, easy to use and budget-friendly. In order to see how well this Craftsman backpack blower stands up to a mountain of leaves, we sent it to our testing lab for close inspection. Heres everything you need to know about this model before you add it to your arsenal of lawn equipment.

What is the Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower?

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is an electric leaf blower. It has a 12-inch cord and is a true backpack-style lawn tool with two straps, making it less cumbersome than a sling bag. This leaf blower boasts a powerful 12-amp motor with a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). When it comes to speed, this tool can shoot air out at 260 miles per hour (MPH).

At under 12 pounds, this Craftsman backpack blower is lightweight and incredibly easy to use and maneuver, thanks to its user-friendly handles. But that’s not the only reason we love it so much. This Craftsman blower also functions as a leaf vacuum.

“Vacuums are effective when cleaning up smaller spaces and tight areas. For example, cleaning leaves in bushes,” explains Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook. “A leaf blower won’t be able to blow the leaves out of there, while blowers are better for quickly moving large amounts of debris across bigger spaces.”

No tools are required to switch this from blower to vacuum mode. In vacuum mode, it sucks up and mulches up to 55 liters of leaves into the backpack. Once the bag is full, simply open it up and dump all of the mulched debris out. Yard work has never been so easy! Keep reading for a full breakdown of the Craftsman backpack blower’s features and to find out why it’s one of the best backpack leaf blowers we’ve tested.

VIA MERCHANT

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower also functions as a leaf vacuum for quick and easy cleanup.

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Features

Versatility

As mentioned above, the Craftsman backpack blower functions as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum. In order to switch between functions, all you have to do is switch the tubes and twist open the fan cover. The fan cover is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it, and no tools are required.

Engine Power and Blowing Force

The Craftsman backpack blower is pretty powerful given its size and price point. Its 12-amp motor allows it to clear tough debris like wet leaves and pebbles. It moves air at 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). “A strong blower with good CFM is great for cleaning hard-to-reach corners and gathering debris from garden beds into neat piles on the lawn,” explains Fuenmayor. Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower blows air at up to 260 MPH. A higher MPH increases the distance you are able to clear.

Mulching Capabilities

In vacuum mode, the Craftsman backpack blower’s plastic impeller shreds debris into mulch and deposits it into the backpack. According to the manufacturer, this machine shreds leaves and reduces their volume by a ratio of 12:01. During testing, our testers noted that this blower mulched the leaves very finely.

Warranty

The Craftsman backpack blower is covered by a three-year limited warranty. This means that for three years following the date of purchase or date of delivery of the product (whichever date is later), this machine is warrantied against defects in material or workmanship. This warranty is extended only to the original end-user purchaser of the product. Read more about Craftsman’s warranty policy here.

How We Tested It

The product testing team, led by associate product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer, took this Craftsman backpack blower into our testing lab to see what it’s really made of. They looked at how easy it was to assemble and how well it performed as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum.

Assembly

Our testers ran into some initial hiccups during the assembly process, noting that the plastic pieces didn’t click into place as satisfyingly as they would have liked. However, they describe the process itself as pretty straightforward. Once it was assembled and ready to go, our testers especially liked the ergonomic handles which allowed them to get a good grip before they started blowing.

Leaf Blowing

To test the Craftsman’s performance as a leaf blower, our team scattered dry leaves around the yard, then blew them into a designated 4-by-10-foot area before vacuuming, evaluating the blower’s directional control, ease of use and noise level. Our testers were really impressed by the power behind this blower. However, it was a bit too powerful at times. “It would be nice if there were multiple speed levels, because the one will blow your pile all around as you get closer to it,” says Kaz. Additionally, this leaf blower registered 106.5 decibels. In other words, it’s loud! Ear and eye protection are strongly recommended.

Vacuuming

After they finished blowing the leaves, our testers set out to test the vacuum function on the Craftsman backpack blower. To convert the machine from a leaf blower to a leaf vacuum, Kaz and Fisher had to swap the blower tube for the vacuum tube and twist open the fan cover, which is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it. Though easy in theory, Kaz and Fischer struggled a bit here, noting that the tubes don’t really click into place. But after double-checking the user manual, they were back in business.

For this test, our testers spread roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two rectangles of grass. They covered one rectangle in dry leaves and the other had damp leaves, which had been misted with a hose. Our testers timed how long it took to suck up each rectangle’s leaves while evaluating the ergonomics, maneuverability, noise level and more.

According to Kaz and Fischer’s report, it took just under three minutes to suck up all of the dry leaves and just over one minute to suck up all of the wet leaves. Upon emptying the bag, they noted that the leaves had been very finely mulched.

Comfort

As for comfort, Fischer points out that the unit itself gets pretty heavy to use for an extended length of time. Luckily, the overall backpack design helped. “The backpack is nice on this one because it’s a full backpack that goes over both shoulders,” he says. “It provides a lot of relief from the weight.”

Overall, our product testing team highly recommends the Craftsman backpack blower. It was a top performer in the lab and is both easy and comfortable to use. “The two-strapped backpack-style bag works amazingly well and should be the standard for all these handheld vacuums. It’s a great way to equally distribute weight and goes a long way to mitigate fatigue,” raves Fischer.

And for less than $100, you simply can’t go wrong.

Pros:

• Functions as a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum
• Two-strapped backpack provides relief from the weight of the unit
• Powerful performance
• Finely mulches leaves and debris it vacuums
• Under $100
• Ergonomic handles

Cons:

• Not cordless
• Plastic pieces don’t readily click into place

Why You Should Trust Us

Our editors and testers on the product testing team have years of experience in the commerce space. We’ve tested dozens of leaf blowers and leaf vacuums, including the Husqvarna Backpack Blower, Stihl BR 600 Backpack Blower and the Ego Leaf Blower. And we don’t plan on stopping there! Currently, we are testing more leaf blowers and leaf vacuums to ensure we help you make informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

To further discuss the benefits and uses of leaf blowers and vacuums, we also enlisted the expertise of Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook.

FAQ

What kind of gas does a Craftsman backpack leaf blower take?

This Craftsman backpack blower is electric and does not take gas.

Why won’t my Craftsman backpack blower start?

First, make sure your Craftsman backpack blower is plugged in. The cord on this model is only 12 inches long, so an extension cord may be required.

If that doesn’t work, check the fan cover. “Initially, you have to turn the cover to lock it into place in order for the machine to turn on,” explains Fischer. “We didn’t realized this, so the machine wouldn’t start after several tries. Finally, after about five attempts and referring to the user manual, it seemed that whatever was hanging it up resolved itself and we were able to click the cover into place.”

What kind of oil goes in a Craftsman?

This Craftsman backpack blower does not require oil.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

Five-star reviewer Robert T Kennedy appreciates how well this unit cleans his yard without sucking up expensive decorative stones. “I liked the multiple options for the leaf blower,” he writes. “One piece of equipment keeps my lawn, garden, walkways and driveway clean with its powerful motor. Definitely worth the reasonable price.”

Micray, another five-star reviewer, calls the Craftsman backpack blower a back-saver. “This has been such a lifesaver trying to clean up. My backyard had hundreds of those little bitty gumballs, and this has made picking them up so much easier,” they write.

After running into some of the same issues as our product testing team in regards to getting the pieces into place, verified user Girly Gamer is happy to have figured it out. “It ended up working beautifully on the vacuum part which is all I wanted. Great power, bag is comfortable and holds A LOT! It is fairly heavy, but with the two handles, it’s not too bad,” they write. “Saved me big time from raking and bending over to pick up piles of pine needles which had been building up for a year! Even mulched pine cones and twigs fine…”

Product Comparison

Our product testing team tested a total of six blower vacuum combos including the Craftsman backpack blower. They labeled this unit the best overall for its performance, two-strap backpack style and good value. We also tested the Toro Ultra Blower Vac, another corded model which functions as a blower and a vacuum. The Craftsman and the Toro are both similarly sized and priced, there was a significant difference in performance.

The Craftsman backpack blower has a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and expels air at 260 miles per hour (MPH). The Toro, on the other hand, has a velocity and air volume of 340 CFM in blow mode and 405 CFM in vac mode. And though the Toro boasts the same 260 MPH as the Craftsman, our testers found the Toro’s blowing performance to be much weaker than the Craftsman backpack blower.

Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower has a two-strapped backpack-style bag which makes it easy to tote around the yard. The Toro has one strap which you can sling over your shoulder. Though not uncomfortable, it’s not as convenient as the Craftsman backpack blower.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to keep your yard neat and tidy, you can’t go wrong with the Craftsman backpack blower. This versatile blower is comfortable, easy to use and powerful enough to get the job done. In short, you can expect your lawn to look like a million bucks all autumn long thanks to this handy backpack blower.

Where to Buy the Craftsman backpack leaf blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is a steal at under $100. You can shop on Amazon where it’s available with free two-day Prime shipping. You can also shop at Lowe’s where it’s available for in-store pickup or delivery.

VIA MERCHANT

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The two-strapped backpack equally distributes the blower's weight.

$69.88 at Amazon

$89.98 at Lowe's

The post This Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Is Two Tools In One, And It’ll Clean Up Your Yard in No Time appeared first on Family Handyman.

There’s also a shortage of unskilled labor. I have lived in California for 20+ years and can remember that finding someone to clean gutters, paint a fence or help with landscaping tasks was as easy as driving to the local Home Depot parking lot to recruit as many workers as I needed. No more. Whether it’s due to stricter immigration policies or an increased need for laborers in the agricultural sector, the worker pool has dwindled to a fraction of what it was.

The lack of unskilled workers is probably partially due to evolving immigration policies. In the years 2015 and 2016, the U.S. Census Bureau reported 1,049,000 immigrants, but by 2020 and 2021, that number had decreased to 247,000 a 76-percent drop. The thinking behind those policies might be that fewer migrants means more work opportunities for citizens, but so far, working-age Americans don’t seem to have made much of a dent in the shortfall.

There may be other reasons why the number of unskilled laborers is flagging, but when it comes to skilled workers, the reasons are many. Some of them go back just a few years, while others have roots in the last century.

The Extent of the Problem

In July 2024, U.S. Chamber of Commerce data showed 8.2 million job openings in the U.S. and only 7.2 million unemployed workers. To quote from the Chamber of Commerce report: “If every unemployed person in the country found a job, we would still have millions of open jobs.”

A labor shortage is good news for workers because it forces up wages. Still, employers can’t always pay them, or they are just unwilling to, especially if the shortage is temporary, as it was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Economist Adam Ozimek, who owns a small business, said in an interview: “When the labor shortages go away, then you’re stuck with a higher nominal wage than you would need.”

The result is that businesses go understaffed, prices rise and consumers pay more for goods and services. But is the current labor shortage a temporary byproduct of the pandemic, or are longer-term factors involved that call for a societal course change?

Factors Contributing to the Skilled Labor Shortage

As the population ages and more workers retire, there is a shortage of young workers available to take their places. The pandemic accelerated the retirement rate as part of a phenomenon now known as the Great Resignation.

After the pandemic, some two-thirds of workers who lost their jobs during the lockdown are somewhat or not very active in searching for a new job. According to a survey conducted by the Chamber of Commerce in 2022, at the time:

• Half of the respondents were not willing to accept jobs that don’t offer the opportunity for remote work.
• Nearly one in five either retired, became homemakers or transitioned to part-time work.
• Younger people (aged 25 to 34 years old) reported prioritizing personal growth over working. Some 36 percent of them were seeking new skills through training and education before attempting a return to the job market.

NOTE: To that last point, people need training because they didn’t get it in their school years. Since the 1960s, young people have been pushed to pursue college degrees that would land them more lucrative white-collar jobs. Education in the trades was stigmatized, high schools phased out trade programs, and blue-collar jobs developed a negative image. This process accelerated in the 1990s and 2000s.

Preparing Young People for the Labor Market

In a recent opinion piece for the Washington Post, writer Heather Long envisions an apprenticeship renaissance that could provide three million job opportunities in the next five years and notes that she believes the momentum for this to happen is already there. The U.S. government began funding apprenticeship programs at the end of the Obama administration and today invests $244 million in them.

At present, the U.S. lags behind other countries in the number of programs it offers. Only 0.4 percent of the U.S. workforce is involved in apprenticeships, compared to two percent in Britain and France. In Germany and Switzerland, half or more of young people are involved in apprenticeship programs.

Apprenticeships extend beyond the construction trades, with manufacturing, tech and finance firms also offering programs. Apprenticeships and trade schools qualify young workers for good-paying jobs with pensions and instill a sense of purpose. Not only that, “earn-while-you-learn” apprenticeship programs provide a living wage now, not merely the promise of one in the future.

Perhaps most importantly, as Anne-Marie Kovacs points out in Forbes, the skills young people acquire in apprenticeship programs and trade schools are not only necessary but also resistant to automation, outsourcing and AI. That’s a big plus today, and it’s bound to be an even bigger plus going forward.

Sources

• The Washington Post: How can more young people live the American dream? There’s a simple answer; August 2024.
• The Atlantic: The Coming Labor Shortage Is Not Good News; July 2024.
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Understanding America’s Labor Shortage; July 2024.
• Forbes: The Crisis Under The Hood: America’s Skilled Labor Shortage; June 2024.

The post Just How Big of a Problem Is the United States’ Labor Shortage? appeared first on Family Handyman.

I spoke with two decor professionals to find out what the 2025 Colors of the Year can tell us about where home fashions are heading, how and when they can help you make a stylish home your own, and how to introduce these trends in a way that feels timeless.

What Are the Colors of the Year?

Every fall, many major paint brands announce their Colors of the Year. “They’re a way for interior professionals and paint companies to demonstrate leadership in the space,” Interior Designer Heather Mastrangeli says.

She believes that, to some degree, the Color of the Year announcements are a marketing tactic. However, that doesn’t mean they’re meaningless. Companies make their selections by looking at current consumer moods and desires, along with lifestyle and design trend forecasting. This means that, although the colors vary by brand, there can be meaningful emerging themes amongst the hues.

Mastrangeli explains that there’s a direct correlation between the fashion industry and the interior design industry. “Typically, fashion is a little ahead of interior design, and trends begin in Europe before making their way to the U.S.,” she says. “As we see 2025 Color of the Year announcements, we know that these shades are carefully selected based on a multitude of criteria and will make a splash in the interior design world.”

Should I Care About the Colors of the Year?

You don’t have to select a Color of the Year to create a timeless, stylish spaceand sometimes, these trending shades won’t fit with your personal preferences or the aesthetic you’re aiming for. However, if you need inspiration on the best interior paint colors for redesigning a room, Mastrangeli explains Colors of the Year can be a helpful starting point. “The risk [of making a design misstep] is mitigated slightly by turning to color trends,” she says.

They can help narrow down the overwhelming number of color options and provide inspiration and focus for an overall interior design style. If you like to be ahead of the curve with trends, you can’t go wrong with selecting a 2025 Color of the Year.

Will the Colors of the Year Age Well?

The colors of the year are chosen based on current and forecasted design trends rather than on how timeless the shades are. Certain shades may become dated more quickly than others. However, Interior Designer Megan Hersch says the trends tend to last multiple years and aren’t likely to shift to the opposite extreme quickly. “So the fear of your home looking outdated if you select a color from within the trend is not always warranted,” she says.

Mastrangeli says that it’s rarely the colors on their own that create issues with aging. “It’s the combination of the painted walls, the interior design, and the furnishings that can cause a space to look dated,” she says. Thinking about how all these elements come together can help you retain a timeless appeal when you’re painting your home to sell.

Looking at the emerging 2025 Colors of the Year, the trend is leaning towards earthy, warm, soothing and comforting shades, rather than contemporary cool tones. Mastrangeli says these shades have timeless staying power when combined with the right furnishings and finishes.

What The 2025 Colors of the Year Tell Us About Where Interior Design Is Headed

Hersch says that after several years of “hygge” home style, featuring warm woods and soft neutrals, people continue to look for a welcoming respite from the outside world. “The cooler grays of 10 years ago are giving way to colors with more sophistication and depth, which is where I believe the level of design will stay while people turn back toward more human connection and warmth,” she says.

Mastrangeli also believes the upheaval of the global pandemic has influenced the warm tone trends in the 2025 Colors of the Year selections. “When there’s a crisis, people crave comfort,” she says. “They want to be surrounded by warmth after making it through such a turbulent time.”

About the Experts

• Megan Hersch is an interior designer and co-founder and COO of online design service roomLift. She has almost 20 years of experience in the High-End Residential Interior Design Business; email interview, Sept. 13, 2024.
• Heather Mastrangeli, NCIDQ, IIDA, NKBA is a Registered Interior Designer and Owner of Innovatus Design, an award-winning interior design studio; email interview, Sept. 13, 2024.

The post What the Paint Colors of 2025 Tell Us About Where Interior Design Is Headed appeared first on Family Handyman.

Different types of paint sprayers cater to various project needs, providing versatility for a range of home improvement tasks. HVLP (high-volume, low-pressure) sprayers, for example, are great for detail work and achieving a fine finish on furniture and cabinets. Airless sprayers deliver high-pressure coverage, perfect for big jobs like painting an entire fence.

Once your project is complete, the sprayer and its accessories can be neatly stored in the durable storage case. It keeps everything organized and ready for the next use. This convenience ensures that the Wagner Flexio 3500 is always prepared to help you tackle your next painting project with professional results.

What is the Wagner Flexio 3500?

The Wagner Flexio 3500 is an HVLP (high volume low pressure) paint sprayer designed for DIYers. It is especially well-suited for small projects and detail work but is also capable of tackling medium-sized projects such as entire walls or treating a deck. It requires only electricity and ships with two nozzles that are capable of using most types of paints, stains and finishes.

Once your project is complete, the sprayer and its accessories can be neatly stored in the durable storage case, keeping everything organized and ready for the next use. This convenience ensures that the Wagner Flexio 3500 is always prepared to help you tackle your next painting project with professional results.

PAMELA BANDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

$179 at Home Depot

Wagner Flexio 3500 Paint Sprayer

$179 at Home Depot

Wagner Flexio 3500 Product Features

The Flexio 3500 Electric Handheld HVLP Paint Sprayer makes your painting projects faster and more efficient. It sprays 10 times faster than a traditional brush, allowing you to cover an 8-by-10 wall in just five minutes. This makes it perfect for both interior and exterior projects, including walls, decks, fences, furniture, cabinets and more.

One of the standout features of the Flexio 3500 is its variable-speed X-Boost turbine, which provides the power needed to spray unthinned paints and stains. This versatility means you can tackle a wide range of painting jobs without the hassle of thinning the paint. The sprayer also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and maneuver, and is 10% lighter than previous Flexio models, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.

The sprayer offers multiple adjustable settings to suit your specific project needs, providing flexibility and control over your painting. The iSpray nozzle is ideal for achieving a textured finish on broad surfaces like exterior siding, walls and ceilings, while the Detail Finish Nozzle is perfect for a smooth, fine finish on cabinets, furniture and trim. These interchangeable nozzles make the Flexio 3500 a versatile tool for both professional and DIY projects.

Cleaning and Material

Cleaning and maintaining the Flexio 3500 is a breeze thanks to the Lock-N-Go system that allows for quick disassembly. The included Bonus Cup Liner further simplifies cleanup, making it quick and easy. For added convenience, the durable storage case keeps the sprayer protected between projects. Plus, you can access Wagner+ by scanning the QR code on your product for instant digital access to product registration, how-to guides, manuals and more, ensuring you have all the resources you need at your fingertips.

Lastly, the sprayer is capable of spraying:

• Latex and oil-based paints
• Semi-transparent stain
• Solid stains
• Water-based lacquers
• Urethanes

How We Tested It

The first thing that stood out to me about this sprayer was the case that it came in. I often find that molded plastic cases are almost useless as it seems impossible to get the tools back into their designated slots. In this case (pun intended), the parts were easily stowed and the case could be buttoned up.

The next thing I noticed is what I would call built-in nozzles. Most of the hand-held sprayers that Ive used utilize a type of two-part metal nozzle wherein you pick the fluid tip size based on your material. You then insert a matching needle tip, which is prone to getting lost, even if just dropped onto carpeting or grass, not to mention floating around at the bottom of a tool box. These needless nozzles seemed like a bonus and definitely were.

I set out to paint the exterior of one of my wooden sheds, which was in serious need of painting. After power washing it, scraping off some old paint and waiting for it to dry, I filled the 1300-milliliter (approximately 1/3rd gallon) that works with the iSpray nozzle with an inexpensive, acrylic-based exterior paint and primer in one. I attached the iSpray nozzle, which is supposed to mimic the texture of a roller, and plugged in the sprayer. Since it was just an outside shed, I eschewed practice and fine-tuning in water or on cardboard and went straight for the shed.

Tuning and Usage

As expected, some fine-tuning was required. I ended up with a few drips, but that was entirely user error and not a result of the settings, which I had adjusted based on the usagehaving set the X-boost power dial (I.e., the air power) to the middle of its range and the material flow control to the middle of its range. Also, I had the spray width set to wide, and after some technique adjustments, this worked out to be a great combination of power and volume for the paint.

I went through the first container of paint rather quickly due to my futzing around with the technique. As such, I was a little worried about how much paint I was going through. But by the time I was onto my second container of paint, I was getting great distance and coverage. I was able to get a single coat onto approximately 60 square feet with less than 1/3 of a gallon of paint. This amount is spot on if estimating that I can spray 150 to 200 square feet per gallon.

The coating was even at the start and end of the spray cycle, as well as at the edges of the spray pattern. I used the common overlap technique with horizontal paths and completed the edges with the spray width set to the narrow setting. The nozzle cleanup was quick and painless. I was really pleased with the results: The shed went from a sad and dreary backyard eyesore to looking like a proud member of the outdoor decor.

Pros

• Carrying case
• Multiple nozzles and containers
• Easy to clean
• Detail finish and spray at the same time
• Variable air power control
• Can use stains, enamels, paints and more

Cons

• Not great for large projects
• Pricier than most handheld HVLP sprayers

Why Trust Us

Ive been painting homes for nearly 40 years, and while much of the process remains the same, the paints and sprayers have improved greatly. Ive been using modern DIY and professional sprayers for a couple of years and have been impressed with their capabilities, especially at such reasonable prices.

When I learned that I would be reviewing a selection of paint sprayers, I was eager to find out firsthand how they would stack up. I reviewed the equipment from the vantage point of a non-professional, intent on offering DIYers an idea of what each sprayer could and could not do. My review offers potential consumers a realistic and practical guide to an array of sprayer options.

FAQ

Do you have to thin paint for Wagner Flexio 3500?

You dont have to thin paint for the Wagner Flexio 3500, but sometimes, it may be necessary. Wagner advises users that most paints do not need to be thinned and that optimal spray performance can be achieved by adjusting the airflow, spray width and material flow control. If thinning, its advised to delete the material in steps of 5-10%.

Can I use Wagner Flexio 3500 to paint a ceiling?

With some practice, spraying a ceiling can be done without too much mess. Youll want to be cautious of where you align the pickup tube when using the Flexio to paint a ceiling. Its ideal to spray with a horizontally held sprayer, but that isn’t possible when painting a ceiling. So, when painting a ceiling with the Flexio 3500, point the pickup tube toward the handle of the sprayer. The paint is then taken up in the tube when the sprayer is pointed upward. Wagner warns that the sprayer should not be used at greater than a 45-degree angle. If the angle is too steep, material could get into the turbine and damage it. Eye protection and a mask are always recommended when using a sprayer, but especially important when painting a ceiling.

Can I leave paint in my Wagner paint sprayer overnight?

Ideally, you wouldn’t leave paint in the sprayer overnight because the paint may dry on the nozzle and clog it. The system is somewhat closed to the elements, so it is ok to leave paint in the sprayer for short periods between use, such as overnight or for a break. Before using the sprayer, after it has sat, be sure to mix the paint in the container. Also, it will likely be necessary to remove paint from the hardened nozzle tip. Once its cleared, you should be good to go.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

Five-star The Home Depot reviewer Brian1 claims, “I purchased the Flexio 3500 about six weeks ago when we were in the middle of remodeling our master bathroom. We had urethane-finished birch wood that we wanted painted. The sprayer delivered beyond our expectations. The finish was exceptional (factory-like finish). It was easy to use, and clean-up was a breeze.

“So far, Ive used it to paint doors and the whole exterior of my stucco house. It worked well. On stucco, it does cover in one go, but be ready to buy extra gallons of paint. I tried rolling, and the spray would cover way more in such a short time! It is super easy to clean thoroughly, ” says 5-star reviewer fonf64.

Eric on The Home Depot gives the Wagner Flexio 5 stars and says, I bought this item just in case/backup for doing my house. I ended up having to use this for the whole house. The house came out great. Saved me about $20,000 to do this my self. The one thing that I wish there was an easier way to have a faster fill method. I believe that is what took me the longest to do. But besides [that], it’s great with thick and thin paint. I recommend this product 100 percent.

Wagner Flexio 3500 vs Earlex HVLP Sprayer

Lately Ive been using an Earlex HVLP sprayer for my smaller projects. The Earlex HVLP sprayer is a good comparison for the Wagner Flexio 3500 as they are both handheld HVLP sprayers. The Earlex comes in at a lower price and is lighter so let’s take a look at the usage.

The Earlex is differs from the Wagner in that it uses nozzles that are matched to your material and desired finish. On the other hand, the Wagner just has two nozzlesone for fine spraying and one for wider, textured spraying. Another key difference is that the air cap, either fine or wide spray, must be selected on the Earlex. The Earlex does not come with a case and it’s important to keep all the nozzles together with the sprayer. I keep my nozzles and tools in a plastic bag but still don’t have a convenient way to ensure that the bag is with the sprayer. Its these factors along with the cleanup that makes the Wagner a clear winner for being easier to use.

Final Verdict

At first, I wasnt convinced the two-nozzle solution was going to be adequate. It proved to be more than adequate and Im sold. A lot of the experimentation and guesswork were taken away by knowing that the either nozzle could handle whatever material I was going to use. Plus, the cleanup was such a breeze that I dont dread pulling out the sprayer. This sprayer will be taking a front-and-center space in my collection of painting tools. I look forward to more projects with it.

Where to Buy the Wagner Flexio 3500

You can pick up the Wagner Flexio at The Home Depot or order it online for under $180.

$179 at Home Depot

Wagner Flexio 3500 Paint Sprayer

$179 at Home Depot

The post I Tried Out the Wagner Flexio 3500 Paint Sprayer and the Results Were Flawless appeared first on Family Handyman.

18062- Macungie, PA

Located just to the south of the much-larger Allentown, Macungie is a growing Pennsylvania borough within striking distance of several major metros on the eastern seaboard. Homes in Macungie spent an average of 16 days on the market in 2024, nearly a month less than the national average.

The post Which Zip Codes Had the Hottest Housing Markets in 2024? appeared first on Family Handyman.

While some of our testing results were surprising, both models performed well in their capacities. The GLM100-23 proved easy to use and accurate indoors within sixteenth of an inch. The GLM50C performed well when paired with the app.

Here are our testing results for both Bosch laser tape measures, along with information about other Bosch models to help you decide if Bosch is the right brand for you and which model will fit your DIY or professional needs best.

What is a Bosch laser tape measure?

Understanding how to read a tape measure is crucial at home or on the job site. However, Bosch is working to simplify the task through its extensive lineup of laser measuring tools. The company offers multiple laser tape measures via its Blaze line, and there are models to meet any DIY budget.

Bosch also blurs the line between DIY and professional-grade laser measure tools, with some models featuring green lasers meant for outdoor use and others with Bluetooth and mobile app functionality.

Our product testing team noticed that the backlit displays of both models we tested were easy to read and navigate. Both were easy to operate, and using each felt intuitive to our testers. One tester noted that the GLM50C, the most expensive of the two, is designed well enough to perform well for both DIYers and pros alike.

The Bosch Laser Measure GLM100-23 is a simple laser measurement tool with fewer features. You might call it a laser measure for purists. Priced at around $45, our testers noted that it was the most compact laser tape measure they tested, and its accuracy is a plus for smaller projects.

TMB STUDIO

$79.97 at Home Depot

$70.99 at Amazon

$59.97 at Lowe's

Shop at Walmart

We Tried It

Bosch GLM50C Laser Distance Measure

$79.97 at Home Depot

$70.99 at Amazon

$59.97 at Lowe's

Shop at Walmart

Bosch Laser Measure Features

Bosch GLM100-23

The Bosch GLM100-23 is the most basic of the two Bosch laser measure tools we tested. The GLM 100-23 would work well in a DIYer’s or professional’s tool kit to supplement a standard tape measure. The device features no metric measuring functions; however, it does have instant point-and-shoot measuring ability in an impressively compact design. It’s also incredibly accurate at taking precise measurements indoors.

Bosch GLM50C

The GLM50C is more advanced. Its many features make it a solid choice for professionals and avid DIYers who primarily work indoors. The tool incorporates a bright and easy-to-read screen, rotating display, canvas carrying case, clip and Bluetooth capability. Additionally, it’s designed for use with Bosch’s MeasureOn mobile app, which provides more advanced features as well.

How We Tested Them

Our testing team evaluated and tested both Bosch Laser Measure devices. The testers reported on everything from unboxing and standard use to mobile app functionality for each one.

Testing involved manually checking accuracy under several typical working conditions, reporting on the device’s size and comfort, operating all of the device’s functions and mixing combinations of functions when applicable. The product testers recorded their results as testing took place to ensure accuracy and minimize bias. Finally, the team generated a report that included their findings and a rating score for each tool.

The Bosch Laser Measure GLM100-23 ranked as the best basic laser measure in our review, and the Bosch Blaze GLM50C earned the badge of being the best splurge, according to the test results.

FAQ

How do you use a Bosch laser measure?

A digital tape measure guide can help you learn about all of the functions of a laser tape measure. However, we found the Bosch laser measures relatively easy to operate.

Some models only require you to point and shoot the device for an instant measurement reading, while others include functions to calculate areas and volumes of spaces. The processes for more complex models include setting your desired measurement (metric or standard), choosing the functions you wish it to perform and letting the device do the rest.

Can you calibrate the Bosch laser measure?

The user can’t calibrate typical consumer-grade Bosch laser measures. In most cases, the devices are accurate within 1/16th of an inch. However, if your Bosch laser measure is showing inaccuracies, there are a couple of things to check.

First, be sure the device is aimed correctly at the object you’re measuring. If that fails, try to aim at surfaces that aren’t shiny. Placing cardboard or something similar in front of a shiny object can increase accuracy. Finally, ensure there are no objects in the way of your measurement, including heavy airborne particles such as sawdust.

What app for Bosch laser measure?

Bosch provides its MeasureOn mobile app for use with its Bluetooth and app-compatible measuring devices. Our product testing team says the app is extremely useful and features excellent tools for avid DIYers, designers, construction workers and engineers.

What Others Have to Say

Reviews for Bosch laser measures, in general, are overwhelmingly positive, with 85% of The Home Depot reviewers recommending the product they purchased. The tools carry a 4.4 out of 5-star rating on the platform.

While the models we tested included red laser technology, intended for indoor use only, the company’s outdoor-capable green laser devices, such as the Blaze 165 ft Green Laser Distance Measuring Tool, also earn an average of 4.7 stars with The Home Depot customers.

Positive reviews typically cite the tools’ compact designs, lightweight, spot-on accuracy and durability as the reasons for the high praise. However, some negative reviews exist. Reports of inaccurate measurements and an inability to operate red laser technology devices outdoors are the top reasons for lower ratings.

Bosch Laser Measure vs. Leica Laser Measure

We also tested the Leica Laser Measure and compared it to our Bosch Blaze Bluetooth-Enabled device. While the devices are pretty similar in function, the Leica Laser Measure has a measuring capacity of up to 330 feet, while the Bosch maxes out at 165 feet.

Both devices can function with a proprietary mobile app and provide additional functions like distance measuring, multiple measurements, data-point storage, and area and volume calculations.

The Leica offers a Pythagoras function and a 60-second timer delay option. However, Bosch’s MeasureOn app is free to use, while Leica’s requires a paid subscription. The MeasureOn app from Bosch is more functional, too. Our testers discovered some connectivity troubles with the Leica app as well.

Additionally, the Leica tool is more costly, retailing for $199 against Bosch’s $119 price tag.

Final Verdict

While the two Bosch laser measuring tools we tested are very different from each other based on functionality, both impressed our testing team for performing well in compact, well-designed and easy-to-operate forms.

The lower-cost choice will best serve DIYers looking for a basic tool to make measuring distances easier than with a standard tape measure. The tool can also be a supplemental device for quick measurements and layouts.

The higher-cost Bosch device will work well for serious DIYers with a lot to accomplish, as well as for professionals who are looking for a fast way to convert numerous measurements into complex calculations.

While we were hoping to find a Bosch laser tape measure that we could use outdoors at an affordable cost, that didn’t pan out for us.

Where to Buy a Bosch Laser Measure

TMB STUDIO

$39.97 at Home Depot

$37.28 at Amazon

$39.98 at Lowe's

$64.99 at Walmart

We Tried It

Bosch GLM100-23 Laser Distance Measure

$39.97 at Home Depot

$37.28 at Amazon

$39.98 at Lowe's

$64.99 at Walmart

Bosch offers numerous laser measure tool choices, ranging in price from under $50 to over $250 for its top-of-the-line professional-grade model, the Bosch GLM400CL, which includes up to 400 feet of measuring accuracy, Bluetooth compatibility and a camera viewfinder. You can shop the Bosch GLM100-23 for under $50 on Amazon and the Bosch GLM50C for $85 at The Home Depot.

The post Bosch Laser Measure Review: We Tried Two Models, and Here’s How it Went appeared first on Family Handyman.

Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to not only make them even safer but also more comfortable and, dare I say, attractive. Modern work boots claim to be safer, lighter and better fittingand can be worn all day. Could it possibly be true?

Keen Utility’s Evanston boot is one of those new-era utility boots that challenge misconceptions. I tried them to see if they could withstand my everyday tasks and meet industrial standards. I was thrilled with these boots, so read on to hear why.

What is the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot?

Keen Utility designed the Evanston work boot to meet the needs of many professionals. However, I found it practical for any application where comfort and safety are paramount. Keen Utility states that the work boot is great for assembly line workers, electricians, the aerospace industry and light manufacturing.

The boots tick all the boxes for standard work boots, with safety and meeting standards being the highest priorities. Theyre a six-inch high waterproof boot suitable for many manufacturing and construction situations. Durable leather offers the wearer protection and makes the boots visually appealing.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

We Tried It

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot Features

The Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot stands out with a suite of high-performance features designed for durability and safety. This boot is not only oil, slip and heat resistant, but also boasts a carbon-fiber toe. This makes them a lighter alternative to traditional steel toes while maintaining robust protection. Rated for electrostatic discharge (ESD), the boot ensures safe use in environments where static electricity is a concern.

The boot’s six-inch ankle height provides essential protection and stability, a crucial aspect both industrial settings and demanding work environments. The heat-resistant outsole further enhances durability, allowing the boot to withstand high temperatures without compromising performance or comfort.

The Keen Utility Evanston is equipped with Keen.ReGEN technology, a proprietary sole designed to offer 50% more energy return compared to standard foam soles. This technology helps reduce fatigue and increases comfort during long hours on your feet. Additionally, the boot features a 90-degree heel (half an inch) that contributes to its stability and balance.

The eyelets are constructed from plastic rather than metal, minimizing the risk of marring highly finished surfacesa thoughtful detail for professionals working with delicate materials. The boots also have reflective elements for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The leather used is barnyard resistant, meaning it effectively withstands the detrimental effects of common livestock-related hazards like oleic acid and urea.

Furthermore, the Leather Working Group certifies the leather as “environmentally preferred,” which ensures that the tanneries adhere to rigorous environmental standards, including waste management and greenhouse gas reduction.

As an extra bonus, the boots are PFA-free and contain no “forever chemicals.”

How We Tested the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

The boots arrived by mail in terrific packaginga sturdyboot box that Ill be reusing. The boots were pre-laced and ready to use, so I put them on my feet around 8:30 a.m. As someone who dislikes wearing shoes and only wearsthem as a necessitysomething I equate to foot prisonI didnt even think to take these brand-new boots off my feet for almost 12 hours!

I wear a Euro size 39 with a narrow-to-normal width foot and received a U.S. womens 8.5 medium boot. The fit was perfect, and Keens signature roomy toe box was a welcome relief for my claustrophobic toes and the real or imagined widening of my foot as I age. The cushioned part around the ankle felt comfy and didnt give me that restrictive feeling I get when I revisit my early 90s hipster days and wear my heavy, black ankle boots.

I wasnt going to test the carbon fiber toe for safety as they did once on Myth Busters (anyone else see that episode?), but the toe was clearly fortified. I felt confident that my tootsies were in safe hands and opted out of dropping a toolbox on my foot. Another welcome surprise was that the composite toe was not even noticeable, even as my toes were bent, which is something Ive struggled with in other steel-toed boots.

I spent the remainder of the day doing various chores in these boots. I weeded, ran the string trimmer, cleaned gutters and dug up volunteer lemongrass that was invading my flower beds. I walked on grass, mud and mulch. I even took my daily multi-mile walk on asphalt in these boots because it didnt occur to me to change my shoes.

Keen Utility boasts that the heel design of these boots helps secure the foot in place on ladders. While climbing the ladder to clean my gutters, I felt absolutely confident. While digging with a shovel and on the ladder rungs, the sole’s sturdiness did not cause discomfort or fatigue. As the day went by, I was so very surprised that my ankles also did not feel any chafing or excessive pressure.

Pros:

• Certified for safety standards and ESD
• Comfortable
• Lightweight
• Environmentally preferred leather
• Reflective
• Chemical and biological resistant leather
• Multiple widths

Cons:

• No color selection for women
• Limited sizes in both mens and womens styles

Why Trust Me

Ive been wearing work boots for most of my adult life. Ive lived and worked on an organic farm, worked as a land surveyor in many regulated environments, owned a landscaping company and done gobs of contracting work in painting and basic carpentry. Nothing makes my work easier than comfortable and practical footwear.

As a professional product reviewer, I am committed to considering my needs and those of others when evaluating products. The boots are no exception, and I considered many factors in order to give a fair assessment. I looked at both my personal needs and those of people of different sizes and in various industries.

FAQ

Are Keen boots good for work?

There are many types of work boots that are certified for certain industrial uses and safety issues. Many Keen utility boots are approved for these uses and, therefore, are excellent work boots. Keen also has hiking boots and casual boots that may be suitable for certain work environments.

Are Keen shoes good for your feet?

Theyre certainly not bad for your feet! In fact, with the arch support, protection and roomy toe box, your feet are getting the royal treatment as far as footwear goes. Keen utility boots come with a 30-day trial, so if you find that they are not meeting your needs, you can return them.

Are Keen boots waterproof?

Some Keen boots are waterproof. The Evanston boot reviewed is rated as waterproof and is indicated for wet and dry use. If waterproof boots are a must, be sure to check the manufacturers stated uses and capabilities.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

LaRita B. gives a5-star review onKeens site, saying, Wide enough!!!!! Yes, finally, Keen listened! These safety-toeboots are wide enough to fit my foot. Thanks, well done.

Vicki Rose, owner of SPC Specialty Products, a woman-owned business serving the manufacturing and energy sectors, says, I wear industrial boots daily for work. This boot meets all the safety requirements, looks good, and even comes in a womens 5, which is perfect for me.

Best boot ever, says Jade P on Keens site. I bought these off of a recommendation from a coworker. So comfortable, even without another insole! My blisters I got from my other boots went away, and because of the composite toe all my ankle pain is gone (because my old boots were too heavy). Seriously the best purchase Ive ever made.

Keens vs. Red Wings

Icompared these boots to a pair of Redwing steel-toed boots that I used to wear for work and found the Keens have far more support and cushioning. Thecarbon fiber toe was not even noticeable on the Keens, as opposed to the discomfort inflicted on my foot by the old-school steel toe.

I also compared the Keen to a newer pair of steel-toed Red Wings side-by-side and found the comfort and styling to be somewhat equal, but the Keen was significantly lighter.

Final Verdict

The extensive listing of safety ratings on this boot makes it viable for almost all work conditions. The wonderful support and comfort allow for all-day wearing without the need to break them in. Its stylish, too. I was unable to come up with really any criticisms of this boot, so I 100% recommend it. Theres nothing to risk thanks to Keen’s 30-day return period, so try out a pair for yourself.

Where to Buy

You can find Keen Utility’s Evanston boot on Amazon and Zappos for around $150. The sizing is accurate, and with Keens 30-day return policy, the risk of buying shoes online is minimized.

PAMELA BONDURANT/FAMILY HANDYMAN

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

$126.75 at Amazon

$149.95 at Zappos.com

$149.99 at Cabela's

$111.98 at Bass Pro Shops

The post Keen Utility’s New Work Boot is the Perfect Boot for Almost Everything appeared first on Family Handyman.

VIA MERCHANT

$972.35 at Lowe's

A.O. Smith is a pioneer in water heating and water treatment solutions (the brand celebrates 150 years in business in 2024), so it’s no surprise it gets high marks from experts. Our panel of plumbers and HVAC technicians recommends it as the top brand, with five of our seven experts mentioning it.

“They are known for their long lifespan, superior build quality, and excellent warranties, providing peace of mind and great value,” says Mehdi Khachani, CEO of JMK Plumbing. A long lifespan is key because you don’t want to replace a water heater too frequently.

Patrick Sullivan, operations manager at John The Plumber, says that A.O. Smith water heaters “combine innovative technology with reliability.” One of their most popular models is the A.O. Smith Signature 500, a water heater with leak detection and automatic shut-off. A mobile app allows you to control the water heater remotely and receive notifications if there’s an issue.

The post Best Water Heater Brands, According to Plumbers and HVAC Techs appeared first on Family Handyman.

Ahead, find tips from law enforcement and consumer protection professionals on how to avoid falling victim to these often persuasive scammers.

What Is a Home Repair Scam?

Home repair scams can take various forms but generally result in homeowners paying for repairs or services that are never started, left unfinished or, done poorly. The contractor’s intent is to intentionally defraud a homeowner for financial gain. These issues are frustrating for consumers as often money is wasted, or the home can be left in a chaotic state, says Layla R. DEmilia, the Massachusetts Undersecretary of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

Popular Home Repair Scams

Most home repair scams begin right on your doorstep, as it is a popular technique to go door to door.

Fast and cheap post-disaster repairs

After a natural disaster, watch out for contractors who show up to your house promising low-cost repairs done quickly. While tempting, these are often out-of-state or unlicensed workers who simply take a down payment and disappear.

Door-to-door “free” inspection scam

This home repair scam often starts when a contractor unexpectedly knocks on your door, offering a free home inspection. During the inspection, they “discover” an urgent issue and ask for upfront payment to quickly make repairs. The work is often poorly done or left incomplete.

Bait and switch

This home repair scam begins with an extremely low estimate designed to lure the homeowner. Once hired, “unforeseen issues” arise, significantly increasing the cost, often to the amount of the original highest bidder.

To avoid this one, I always try to obtain three estimates and choose the one in the middle, no matter how tempting the low estimate may be.

Signs a Contractor Is Scamming You

Like the two gentlemen that knocked on my door, pressured sales tactics is a classic sign you’re being scammed. You should never have to sign up or pay for something “right now” or else lose your chance. Other signs you’re being scammed include:

• A contractor demands full payment before work begins.
• You’ll get a discount because the contractor has leftover materials from another job.
• A contractor refuses to draw up a contract.
• Payment methods will only be cash or through an on-line payment app.
• A contractor asks you to pull permits with your municipality.

Tips to Avoid Contractor Scams

Jennifer Gundersen, Chief of Police for the town of South Hadley, Massachusetts, recommends asking neighbors and friends for contractor recommendations to avoid falling victim to home repair scams.

Other ways to protect yourself include:

• Ask for and check professional references
• Verify contractors are licensed, bonded and insured
• Require a detailed, written estimate with a clear payment schedule and work timeline
• Avoid door-to-door contractors
• Never sign something or make a payment under pressure
• Never make a large down payment before work has begun

What to Do If You Think You’re Being Scammed

“If you think you are the victim of a contractor scam, contact your local police department right away,” Gundersen says. She recommends taking a photo of the license plates of any worker vehicles so you can provide this information to the police if necessary. You should [also] file a complaint against the contractor with your states relevant agency, such as consumer affairs or the attorney general, DEmilia says.

Other resources include your state’s Office of Consumer Affairs or Attorney General. Both can help you lodge formal complaints or take legal action.

About the Expert

• Jennifer Gundersen is the Chief of Police for the town of South Hadley, Massachusetts. She has been in this role since 2019 and began her law enforcement career in 1994.
• Layla R. DEmilia is the Undersecretary of the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation in the state of Massachusetts. She was appointed to this position in 2023 and oversees the office and its five affiliated agencies.

Sources

New York State Department of Financial Services “Beware of Home Repair Scams”

The post How To Avoid Getting Scammed by Contractors After Natural Disasters appeared first on Family Handyman.

The housing affordability crisis is a multi-headed issue that supply alone can’t realistically change. Let’s take a look at some of those factors to get a better understanding of housing affordability and why it’s not improving.

How Is Housing Demand Determined?

First, let’s take a look at housing demand. It’s a major driving factor in the affordability of the existing homes on the market, and it’s worth exploring, as housing demand itself is a world of gray area.

Housing demand is defined by comparing two factors: the number of homes available on the market compared to the number of families likely to be seeking a home of their own at a given time. The number of houses on the market can fluctuate, but defining “likely to be seeking a home” is like trying to hit a moving target. Over the past few years, job markets, interest rates, inflation, remote work, and other socioeconomic factors have redefined the ways we shop for everythingespecially major purchases like homes.

But, regardless of how we define demand, it’s clear to see that it’s increasing. More people are looking for homes each year than there are homes available, and it’s continuing to worsen.

With Booming Production, Why Aren’t Homes Affordable?

Despite the boom in production in 2023, houses are still unaffordable in 2024. The rules of supply and demand would suggest that increasing inventory would lead to lower prices, so what’s the issue? How is it possible that 1.5 million homes were completed in 2023, but we still didn’t increase supply?

Supply Isn’t Outpacing Growth

According to a recent Zillow report, at any given time in 2022, there were about 3.55 million homes available for sale or for rent. There were over 8 million individuals or families “likely to be seeking a home” throughout the year. That’s a deficit of 4.5 million homesup 200,000 from the previous year.

And it continues to worsen. That 8 million figure was an increase of 1.8 million from 2022. Those numbers represent a significant surge from the years prior to the pandemic, creating even more pressure on the already burdened housing market.

Considering the existing deficit and growth in family numbers, adding 1.5 million homes doesn’t scratch the surface. Sure, it changes the ratio of home shoppers to homes available slightly, but it doesn’t come close to offsetting the supply issue contributing to unaffordable prices. The lack of strong construction activity before the pandemic dug a hole that current construction activity can’t seem to climb out of.

With all of this information, we can see that supply and demand simply aren’t changing much despite completing record numbers of homes. When that’s the case, housing prices are unlikely to drop, sustaining affordability challenges.

Homeowners Are Reluctant to Sell

Another factor in the housing affordability issue is that most homeowners today are reluctant to selleven if their homes are worth two or three times what they paid for them. How could that be? Interest rates.

At the time of writing this article, the current mortgage rate is between 7% and 8%. If a homeowner were to sell their home now, they still need a place to live. This often means getting another mortgage with an interest rate higher than their current mortgage. Plus, the type of home they’ll be able to afford is likely very similar to the one they’d be selling, even if they profit considerably and put down a large down payment.

What if they rent? As of May 2024, rents have increased an average of 30.4% nationwide between 2019 and 2023. While it may be an option, it’s not an attractive one.

So, with so many homeowners being reluctant to add their homes to the housing market, those that are on the market are likely to command a premium, compounding the housing affordability issue.

Some Areas Are Worse Than Others

Housing affordability is a nationwide challenge, but some areas are worse than others. Coastal markets are feeling it the most. The areas of and around Boston, Sacramento, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Austin have the worst affordability mountains to climb.

These areas are generally desirable to younger professionals raising families. The areas’ exceptional school systems, healthcare, and job opportunities increase the demand for housing and, subsequently, the prices. Surprisingly, two of those cities (Austin and Seattle) have also seen the largest increases in housing supply, proving that supply alone cannot solve affordability.

So, What Can Be Done?

There aren’t any switches to flip or buttons to press to bring the housing affordability problem to a halt. But, there are a few things that experts believe will help:

• Policy support and more money spent on affordable housing development
• Rezoning single-family home zones to allow for multi-family construction
• Streamlining the building permit approval process to allow for faster construction
• Establishing affordable housing trust funds or expanding existing funds

While none of these strategies are a solution on their own, they’re each a step in the right direction. As family volumes increase faster than housing completions, we’ll need as much help as possible to offset the challenge of housing affordability now and in the future.

Sources

• Business Insider, Why America’s Housing Shortage Is Getting Worse (2024)
• Zillow, Housing Shortage Worsened Despite Pandemic Construction Boom (2024)
• Fast Markets, US Housing Market Analysis: Are we in the midst of an affordability crisis? (2o24)

The post Construction Is Booming, So Why Is Housing So Unaffordable? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Lumber prices impact much more than just the lumber industry. For homeowners, fluctuating lumber prices can alter budgets for home improvement projects, additions and new home construction plans. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of my customers decided to hold off on planned projects to wait for lumber prices to fall. Some asked me to explain rising lumber costs to them, which proved to be a complex process.

Ahead, find a straightforward breakdown of the key elements affecting lumber prices, from market demand to futures trading, with insights from Michael King from Fleury Lumber.

Are Lumber Prices Going Up or Down in 2024?

Lumber prices appear to be going down in 2024, though incrementally. After experiencing severe volatility during the pandemic, lumber prices have been trending downward since 2022. Depending on what happens during the rest of 2024, prices appear to be on track to stay about the same. “Everything seems to be pretty stable,” King says, “unless something happens to send prices up again.”

What Is the Average Cost for Lumber?

As of this writing, average costs for lumber are as follows:

How Are Lumber Prices Determined?

Many factors determine the price of lumber, from hyper-localized weather events to global financial markets.

What factors impact lumber prices?

Lumber prices are always related to supply and demand the amount of lumber available compared to the amount consumers need. If supply is higher than demand, prices are lower, and prices rise if there is more demand than supply.

What factors impact lumber supply?

The amount of lumber harvested, produced and shipped is influenced by several key elements in the lumber supply chain. “Availability is a key price factor,” King says.

• Production: Production levels can be affected by labor issues, sawmill closures and land access.
• Natural disasters: Weather events can greatly impact the amount of available raw lumber. “Some of the hurricanes in the past have caused plywood prices to go up temporarily,” King says.
• Government policies: Forestry management laws, international tariffs and environmental policies control the amount of lumber that can be produced and exported.
• Shipping and receiving: How quickly lumber can be transported to consumers contributes to supply levels. “Through COVID, we couldn’t get anything,” King says, contributing to higher prices.

What factors impact demand for lumber?

Demand levels for lumber fluctuate due to economic and consumer trend cycles.

• Economic conditions: Times of economic growth typically lead to increased home construction rates and rising lumber demands.
• Interest rates: Low interest rates mean lower borrowing costs, which stimulate new construction projects and, in turn, increase the demand for lumber.
• Construction industry: More new construction projects cause a higher lumber demand.
• Consumer trends: Homeowner demand for lumber-based home improvement projects like decks and additions can impact lumber prices.

Lumber Futures Explained

Lumber contracts bought and sold in a regulated commodities market and lumber futures also influence lumber prices.

What are lumber futures?

Lumber futures are high-volume lumber contracts traded by investors and lumber industry stakeholders through the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). Similar to the New York Stock Exchange, the CME trades commodities and goods contracts rather than stocks.

How do lumber futures work?

Lumber futures contracts are standardized to facilitate trading within the CME. Standardization includes order size (typically 27,500 board feet), price per thousand board feet (varies) and delivery schedules (specific months). Lumber producers, sawmills or large construction companies buy and sell these contracts to minimize their exposure to price volatility. Investors can also buy lumber futures.

Most lumber futures contracts are bought and sold before expiring. Instead of receiving delivery of the lumber, the contract is sold for a cash loss or profit.

How do lumber futures affect retail prices?

Lumber futures provide a market outlook several months ahead, which impacts price expectations. When futures prices rise, retailers expect to pay higher prices to replenish their inventory, so retail prices rise. If futures prices drop, retailers can lower prices as the expected price to replenish stock decreases.

Lumber futures also provide consumers with relatively stable lumber prices.

Lumber futures prices now

From the summer of 2020 to spring 2022, the lumber futures market experienced unprecedented instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In January 2020, lumber futures were trading at $435.50 per thousand board feet (MFBM) and had reached $980 MFBM by the end of the summer. After a brief dip in the winter, by the spring of 2021 prices had shot up to $1,500 MFBM due to labor shortages, a spike in demand and delivery delays. Several more drastic ups and downs occurred until prices finally stabilized in the summer of 2022.

As of this writing, lumber futures are trading at $446 MFBM, and 2024 prices are down 15.2 percent from last year.

Hardwood vs. Softwood Prices

Retail lumber prices are different for hardwood and softwood species.

How are hardwood prices determined?

Hardwood prices consider the wood species, the grade and the cut of the wood.

Why is hardwood more expensive?

Hardwood trees grow slowly and are subject to more environmental regulations, which limits supply. “There are fewer hardwood trees, and it is harder to find,” King says.

Four Tips for Saving Money on Lumber

Reduce waste

Plan your project and lumber order carefully to maximize board usage. “Try to end up with the least amount of waste,” King says. This will save you money.

Buy from a wholesale lumber provider

Wholesale lumber companies buy high-volume orders for less and can pass these savings on to you.

Use lower-grade lumber

Use lower-grade lumber in places that will not be seen and save more expensive finish-grade lumber for visible surfaces.

Use shortboards

Lumber shortboards are shorter lengths of lumber, typically less than 8 feet, that can be used for smaller projects to minimize waste.

Purchase in volume

For larger projects, it can save you money to purchase all of your lumber at once.

About the Expert

• Michael King works in contractor sales at Fleury Lumber, a full-service lumberyard in Easthampton, Massachusetts. He has worked at Fleury Lumber for over 20 years in various roles.

Sources

• CME Group, An Introductory Guide to Random Length Lumber Futures and Options.
• Madison’s Lumber Report, Lumber Prices Go Lower as Summer Downtime Approaches. (2024)
• Statista, Monthly Price of lumber in the United States from January 2016 to February 2024. (2024)

The post Lumber Prices Explained: What DIYers Need to Know appeared first on Family Handyman.

A malfunctioning TPR valve is as dangerous as one that isn’t there, and if you haven’t checked the one on your water heater recently, you really have no idea whether it’s working properly or not.

Water from your faucet that’s hot enough to scald you and unusually high water pressure are two signs of dangerous conditions in your water heater tank. If the TPR valve isn’t working, you’re courting disaster maybe not an actual explosion, but definitely the possibility of a tank rupture.

Here’s how to check your TPR valve and, if necessary, replace it.

What Is a TPR Valve?

“The Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve on your water heater is a critical safety feature designed to release water if the temperature or pressure inside the tank gets too high,” explains Calgary plumber Asif Bux.

The TPR valve is a spring-loaded, brass valve located on the top of the tank or on the side near the top. If it has been installed according to code, it’s connected to a discharge pipe that runs along the side of the tank and terminates six inches above the floor. However, many TPR valves have been installed incorrectly and lack this pipe. Whether installed correctly or not, the TPR valve is there for one reason: to maintain the pressure inside the tank at a safe level.

How Does a TPR Valve Work?

A TPR valve is very simple: It’s in a cylindrical brass housing about four inches long with a 3/4-inch inlet and a perpendicular 3/4-inch outlet. The inlet is screwed directly into the tank, and the valve has an internal spring-loaded flapper designed to open when the tank pressure exceeds its preset limit. On the top of the housing is a metal lever that allows a homeowner or plumber to test it by manually opening it.

When the tank’s internal pressure exceeds its limit, the TPR valve opens, allowing steam and hot water to spray from the outlet until the tank pressure drops below the limit. If the valve has no discharge tube, the spray could injure anyone standing nearby, which is why the plumbing code requires the tube. It screws into the outlet and directs outflow directly at the floor, where it can’t hurt anyone.

How to Tell if Your TPR Valve Leaks

“If your TPR valve is leaking, it indicates that it is doing its job, but it also signals a potential issue that needs to be addressed,” says Bux. While a leaking TPR valve isn’t as dangerous as one that won’t open, it could well be a warning of dangerously high pressure in the tank. Here are some signs of a leaking valve:

• Water on the floor under the discharge tube.
• Water is dripping from the valve outlet. You’ll only see this if there’s no discharge tube.
• Water seeps around the connection between the valve and the tank.

If you see signs of a leak, the first thing to do, according to Mazzacone, is to check the home’s water pressure. You can do this by screwing a pressure gauge onto an outdoor faucet or one in the laundry room and opening the faucet all the way. If the pressure is above residential limits (usually from 60 to 80 psi), you may need to adjust the pressure-reducing valve (PRV) located near the water meter to lower it.

A valve will also leak if the tank water temperature is too high, and this is probably true if the water from the faucets is too hot to touch. Adjust the temperature control on the front of the tank to 120 to 140 degrees F to see if that stops the leak.

How to Replace a TPR Valve

Before assuming the valve needs to be replaced, Bux recommends testing it. Use the lever to manually open the valve and let water spray out (take appropriate safety precautions if there’s no discharge tube), then release the lever. Sometimes, debris lodges in the valve, preventing it from closing, and this should clear it out.

If the valve continues to leak, Mazzacone advises checking the expansion tank. “We often find that expansion tanks are either not installed to code or missing entirely, requiring installation or replacement to solve the issue.”

Whether or not the expansion tank is working properly, if your TPR valve is leaking, it should be replaced. Here’s how Bux does this simple procedure:

1. Let the water cool: Turn off the gas or electricity and let the tank’s water cool to a safe temperature.
2. Drain the tank: Drain a few gallons of water from the tank to lower the water level below the TPR valve. Use the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and a garden hose to direct the water to a safe location.
3. Remove the old valve: Use a wrench to unscrew the old TPR valve. Be cautious, as the valve might be corroded or tight.
4. Install the new valve: Wrap plumbing tape around the threads of the new TPR valve and screw it into place. Ensure it is securely tightened, but avoid over-tightening.
5. Restore power and water: Turn the water supply back on and restore power or gas to the water heater. Check for leaks around the new TPR valve.

FAQs

What If your TPR valve Is stuck?

You should test your TPR valve every six to 12 months or so by opening the lever and ensuring water sprays out. If nothing happens, the internal mechanism is probably stuck. In this case, immediately turn off the gas or electricity and replace the valve when the water cools.

What’s the difference between a TPR valve and a drain valve?

All water heater tanks have both valves. The TPR valve is at the top and opens automatically to release steam and lower pressure. The drain valve is at the bottom, and you open it manually to allow water out of the tank.

Do tankless water heaters have a TPR valve?

No. Tankless (on-demand) water heaters have no tank, so they don’t need a TPR valve to release pressure. They don’t have a drain valve, either.

About the Experts

• Robert Mazzacone is a third-generation licensed master plumber and owner of Mazzacone Plumbing & Heating, based in Westchester County, NY.
• Asif Bux is the service manager of Comfort Union, a plumbing, electrical and HVAC company located in Calgary, AB.

The post Is Your Water Heater’s TPR Valve Leaking? Here’s What to Do appeared first on Family Handyman.

PVC Picket Pool Fence

A cozy home with a white picket fence is the American dream for manyso why not install one around your pool? This fence from @libertyfence offers a clean and traditional look, but because it’s made from PVC, it’s extremely durable and low maintenance.

What We Like About It: A white picket fence meets safety requirements without diminishing the beauty of the pool design.

The post 8 Pool Fence Ideas for Your Backyard appeared first on Family Handyman.

Understanding the differences between annuals, perennials, and biennials is essential knowledge for any aspiring gardener. Each type of plant has a unique life cycle and growth pattern, contributing differently to a garden’s overall aesthetics and maintenance needs.

I largely base my plant choices in my gardens around these three categories. Annuals and biennials are great for a splash of color, while perennials add substance and depth to any garden bed.

Ahead, learn all about annuals, perennials and biennials from two landscaping experts Ricky Lateurrer from Lateurrer Gardens and Landscaping and Joyce Corbett from Class Courtyards.

What Is an Annual Plant?

An annual plant completes a full life cycle in a single growing season. Annuals aim to reseed themselves and do not go dormant and return in the spring. Instead, they germinate, flower and produce seeds within a single season. These seeds then begin a new annual cycle in the spring, continuing to set seed for future plants. “Annuals are my favorite part of my garden,” Corbett says. “I have fun picking out new ones each year.”

Some annuals are perennials grown outside their normal United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Hardiness Zone. “A lot of our annuals in New England are considered perennials in the South,” Corbett says. Because they cannot withstand freezing temperatures, these ‘winter annuals’ will live in colder climates during spring and summer months and then die off in winter. They will not regrow in the spring and require annual replanting.

How long do annual plants live?

A growing season or a year, depending on the plant and climate.

When to plant annuals

“You’ll want to plant annuals in the spring,” Corbett says. When spring actually occurs will depend on the USDA Hardiness Zone in which you live. In Southern California, this could be March, whereas in Northern Maine, it would be April or May.

What are common annual plants?

Begonia, Petunia, Lantana, Impatiens, Sunflowers, Zinnias and Marigolds are popular annual flowering plants.

Does an annual plant come back every year?

No, an annual plant does not come back every year. Annuals will not regrow and need to be reseeded or replanted each year. What they lack in longevity, they make up for with long flowering periods. “I think of annuals as a seasonal decoration that spruces up a garden,” Lateurrer says.

What Is a Perennial Plant?

A perennial plant lives at least two years, but there are some that can survive for 10 to 15 years or longer once planted. Perennials grow and flower through spring, summer and fall, then go dormant during colder months.

Perennial shrubs may lose their leaves, but woody growth remains. Other perennials lose all green growth during winter, but regrow from dormant root systems.

How long do perennial plants live?

At least two to three years, but some can live for decades. Most perennial flowers live between two and ten years, while shrubs can live longer. “I’ve dug up perennials from gardens that have been there for over 20 years,” Lateurrer says.

When to plant perennials

“[Planting perennials in] either spring or fall is a good time,” Lateurrer says. “You want to avoid the heat of the summer.” If you’re excited to see flowers right away, plant in the spring. If you can wait for flowers, plant in the fall to avoid watering all summer while the plant establishes. “You’ll really save on your water bill by planting in the fall,” Corbett says.

What are common perennial plants?

Perennial flowering plants include Peony, Daylilly, Iris, Seedum, Hosta, Phlox and Lavender. Perennial shrubs include Hydrangea, Azalea, Rhododendron, Butterfly Bush, Forsythia, Lilacs and Roses.

Do perennial plants come back every year?

Yes, perennial plants come back yearly. These hard-working, low-maintenance plants come back every year for at least two years, typically more.

What Is a Biennial Plant?

Unlike annuals, biennial plants take two years to complete a full life cycle. Generally, the first season is spent growing roots, leaves and stems, while the second season is devoted to flowering, growing and setting seeds.

How long do biennial plants live?

Biennials live for two years.

When to plant biennial plants

Summer or fall are ideal times to plant biennial plants. As long as they have enough time to establish roots and some growth before a frost, they will return to flower and seed in the spring.

What are common biennial plants?

Black Eyed Susans, Hollyhocks, Foxglove, Sweet William, Honesty, Delphinium and Evening Primrose are popular choices for biennial plants.

Do biennial plants come back?

Yes, biennial plants come back. The same biennial plant will return for one season after going dormant during winter. However, biennials can reseed and continue to grow as new plants. The Black Eyed Susans I planted a few years ago keep reseeding and spreading. The original plant is not alive, but through reseeding, Black Eyed Susans return each year.

FAQs

Annuals, perennials and biennials: Can you plant them in pots?

Yes, you can plant annuals, perennials and biennials in pots. Flowering annuals can, and often are, planted in pots. Perennials and biennials are typically planted in the ground to protect dormant root systems. However, some can be grown successfully in pots. A good rule of thumb is to choose cold-tolerant plants at least two zones colder than the climate you live in. This way the root system will withstand the colder soil temperatures in a pot.

Annuals, perennials, and biennials: Which are easiest to care for?

Perennials are the easiest to care for. Once established, perennials will return year after year. Lateurrer finds perennial favorites Daylilly, Hosta and Iris to be “the most low maintenance and drought tolerant.”

About the Experts

Joyce Corbett is the owner of Classic Courtyards in West Springfield, Massachusetts. She has over forty years of landscaping design and installation experience.

Ricky Lateurrer is the owner of Lateurrer Gardens and Landscaping, a full-service residential landscaping company in Longmeadow, Massachusetts.

The post What is the Difference Between Annuals, Perennials and Biennials appeared first on Family Handyman.

What is hard water, you ask? Well, in the simplest terms, it’s water with a high mineral content, but there’s a more precise definition. According to Kelly Russum, a plumber who serves California’s Coachella Valley, water analysts measure hardness in GPG (grains per gallon), where one grain is 64.8 mg. of calcium. “Soft water has GPG lower than 1, and hard water is considered when GPG is 7 or more.” In other words, a gallon of hard water contains half a gram of minerals usually more.

Water with a high mineral content causes all sorts of problems, including:

• Mineral stains on bathroom fixtures, faucets and other appliances;
• Sediment buildup in water heater tanks;
• Blockages in faucets and plumbing pipes;
• Dry hair, itchy skin and reduced effectiveness of soap.
• Foul-tasting and discolored drinking water. This is primarily caused by iron, which is one of the minerals commonly found in hard water.

You don’t have to get your water from a well to have hard water. Community water in many municipalities is also hard enough to cause mineral stains and make showering unpleasant.

The solution is to install a water softener. Our experts explain what that is, what different types are available and what’s involved with installation and maintenance.

What Is a Water Softener?

A water softener is basically a filter, but unlike one that removes chlorine, pesticides and heavy metals, it’s designed to remove minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron from the water supply. A typical system consists of a cylindrical inflow tank ranging in diameter from eight to 14 inches and in height from 44 to 65 inches and a separate brine tank containing a solution of sodium chloride or potassium chloride.

“There are whole-house water softeners and under-counter water softeners,” advises South Carolina-based plumber Justin Cornforth. “I recommend opting for whole-house systems because they ensure that all appliances in your home and plumbing systems receive softened water.”

How Does a Water Softener Work?

Josh Rubin, a Certified Restorer from Phoenix, AZ, explains the operation of the salt-ion water softener: “It works by removing minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, from hard water through a process called ion exchange. Put simply, that’s a way to remove and replace the minerals that cause hard water.”

A water softener tank contains a large quantity of resin beads, forming the bed through which water flows into the building. The beads are charged with sodium or potassium ions supplied from the brine tank, and as hard water passes through, the mineral ions are electrically attracted to the beads and displace the sodium or potassium ions, which take their place in the water. “In this process,” says Rudin, “salt is liberated into the water while calcium and magnesium are pulled out.”

The beads eventually become saturated, so the system has to complete a regeneration cycle every week or so. In this cycle, the brine solution is flushed through the tank to restore the salt ions and wash the accumulated minerals down the drain. Most systems do this automatically.

Types of Water Softener Systems

You can choose from one of three types of water-softening systems:

• Salt-based: This is the type described above. “They are the most common and effective type for significant hard water issues,” according to Asif Bux, a plumber from Calgary, Alberta.
• Salt-free: These systems, according to Russum, use potassium chloride instead of sodium, acting as water conditioners rather than removing minerals. “People concerned about sodium consumption may prefer these types of softeners,” he advises.
• Reverse osmosis: Cornforth explains, “Reverse osmosis water softeners are a good option for homes where you want to remove a wide range of contaminants such as PFAs, TDS, chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs, odors, rust, sediment and more.” They are generally point-of-use rather than whole-house systems.

Advantages of Having a Water Softener

All our experts agree with Russum, who says that soft water will positively affect your plumbing system. “It won’t leave mineral deposits in your pipes, and as a result, you can also save money on your energy bills because, with scale-free pipes, your water heater won’t have to work as hard.” Some other benefits include:

• Longer-lasting home appliances;
• Elimination of hard-to-clean minerals stains;
• Improved soap efficiency;
• Softer skin and hair.

Downsides of Having a Water Softener

Rudin and Bux point out that extra maintenance and installation costs are downsides to a water softener system. They also cite the potential dangers of elevated salt content in soft water for people with certain health issues and the negative environmental consequences of disposing of brine wastewater. It’s worth noting that you can mitigate these problems by choosing a system that uses potassium instead of sodium.

Russum also flags elevated salt content as a potential problem and adds two more: “The process used to soften water also makes it more volatile, which means it collects more unwanted elements from your pipes. These elements can include lead, making it potentially more dangerous. A water softener wastes up to 120 gallons of water for every 1,000 gallons, so you’ll notice a noticeable increase in your water bill.”

How to Choose a Water Softener

The two most important considerations in choosing a water softener system are the hardness level of your water and the amount of water you use. According to the Department of Energy, weekly grain capacities (number of grains the unit can handle before regeneration) of 16,000 to 32,000 are suitable for small houses, apartments and RVs, while medium to large households would need a grain capacity from 40,000 to 100,000. Many manufacturers and retail sites offer charts that allow you to choose the correct size based on your usage and the hardness of your water (which you can determine by sending a water sample to a lab for testing).

How To Install a Water Softener

A typical water softener consists of two tanks: the softener tank that contains the resin beads and the brine tank. Here’s a quick rundown of the installation process:

1. Install a bypass loop in the building’s water supply. One leg of the loop directs water into the tank, and the other one directs the outflow back into the water supply.
2. Connect the brine tank to the softener tank. You usually do this with plastic tubing that is supplied with the unit.
3. Install a drain pipe from the brine tank to the sewer. If it’s close enough, plumbers often make this connection at the washing machine standpipe.
4. Wire the controller that regulates automatic regeneration into the building’s electrical system. This often involves just plugging it into a standard receptacle.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Water Softener System?

“The most basic, entry-level softening systems start around $500 for just the components themselves, not including installation,” says Rudin. “It’s possible you can get it done for less than this, but it would require massive deal hunting and possibly a number of failed softening systems before success.”

Bux and Cornforth put a high end on equipment costs between $2,500 and $3,000, and when you factor in labor, Russum warns the maximum cost can be as high as $11,000. However, Russum warns that it’s almost impossible to answer this question definitively.

Can You Install a Water Softener Yourself?

If you have the plumbing skills, you can probably install an under-counter water softener yourself, but trying to install a whole-house system is a different matter. “It’s not an easy task, and if you don’t know exactly what you are doing, it’s certainly possible to cause damage in the process of installation,” says Rudin. Russum adds that some regions may require a licensed plumber to perform the installation.

How Often to Add Salt to Your Water Softener

Some systems have low-salt indicators that alert you when it’s time to add salt. In the absence of an indicator, you need to check the salt yourself and add more when it falls below the required level. Bux recommends doing this every four to six weeks.

Should I Use Salt Pellets or Crystals?

Bux recommends pellets. They cost more than crystals, but they don’t have any additives, which means purer water overall. Moreover, they don’t dissolve as quickly, so they last longer in households with particularly hard water. However, check the requirements for your system before purchasing salt. Cornforth warns that using the wrong type of salt that can cause clogging and inefficient operation.

About the Experts

• Kelly Russum founded KC’s 23 Hour Plumbing in 1978. He has been the go-to plumber for countless Coachella Valley residents ever since.
• Justin Cornforth is the owner of Ace Plumbing, Electric, Heating & Air, based in Anderson, SC. It’s a family-owned company founded in 2017.
• Josh Rudin is a Certified Restorer and the owner of ASAP Restoration, LLC, serving Phoenix, AZ and surrounding areas.
• Asif Bux is the owner and service manager of Comfort Union, a licensed HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical company located in Calgary, Alberta

Sources

• Energy.gov: Purchasing and Maintaining A Water Softener

The post How Does a Water Softener Work? All Your Questions, Answered appeared first on Family Handyman.

Those who are familiar with utility-task vehicles (UTV) know that Polaris is a trusted name in the industry. The company, which began making snowmobiles in the 1950s, designs and manufactures everything from motorcycles and pontoon boats to ATVs and side-by-side utility-task vehicles.

Their 2025 Ranger lineup includes customer-driven improvements like increased durability, better transmission and more included features like a 7-inch display console and built-in sound system from JBL (which is one of our favorite home speaker companies).

I got to try out the premium and ultimate versions of the 2025 Polaris NorthStar myself to get a feel for the performance and functionality of these home improvement powerhouses.

What is the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar?

Ranger is a brand of side-by-side off-road vehicles that look like a pick-up truck, but are closer to the size of a golf cart. They have power steering, gas and brake pedals, gear shift, and bench seating in the cab, a reinforced front bumper and grille, and a large truck bed that can be tilted up with a simple latch system.

The Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar is equipped with a closed cab thats decked out with heating and air conditioning, a plethora of cup holders and storage, a console with GPS and trail maps, and built-in speakers that can connect to your phone. Paired with the 82-horsepower engine, 2,500 pound towing capacity and 1,000 pound carrying capacity, the Polaris NorthStar can be used to assist with lawn maintenance on large residential properties, daily chores on farms and ranches, and even getting docks and boats in and out of the water.

The powerful and thoughtful design of this revamped Ranger is something to behold. I found it to not only have the versatility and strength to tackle just about any outdoor chore, but itll also keep you comfortable while you do it.

VIA MERCHANT

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Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar

Striking the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar from Polaris is the ultimate maintenance tool for your property.

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Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Product Features

Closed Cab

One of the best aspects of this UTV is the completely enclosed cab. Riding around in the NorthStar on a Texas ranch meant a lot, and I mean a lot, of kicked-up dirt, dust, mud and water, which would have been pretty miserable without the closed cab and filtered air system.

In addition to clean air, you can also adjust the Polaris NorthStars temperature with heating and air conditioning. The former was a lifesaver in the Texas heat and the latter will make early morning snow removal a much more enjoyable experience. If you want to appreciate some good weather or coordinate with someone outside the vehicle, you can always roll down the windows. The ultimate NorthStar has power windows while the premium has crank windows. For even more flexibility, the ultimate NorthStar has a tip-out windshield thatll make you feel like youre in an open cab.

I also really appreciate the thoughtfulness of the cabs design. The bench seats and rear-hinged doors allow for easy in and out, which is really handy when working on a project. Plus, the LED headlights switch is conveniently located to the left of the steering wheel so you can quickly illuminate what youre working on, even when youre out of the UTV.

Included Tech

The ultimate edition of the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar comes standard with some pretty cool electronics, the first being a 7-inch touchscreen display with Ride Command. This free program is an integrated GPS system where you can load existing trails, map new trails, view and communicate with other Polaris vehicles or snowmobiles, utilize a backup camera and, of course, see drive information like the speed, gas level and direction. To take things to the next level, you can add a Ride Command+ subscription that provides vehicle maintenance and diagnostic information so your ride stays in tip-top shape.

Also included with the ultimate edition is an all-new sound system backed up by JBL speakers. I can attest that these speakers sound great and are loud. Youll have no trouble hearing the radio or streaming music while riding or working outside the UTV. You can connect your phone via Bluetooth to sync with Ride Command to listen to music and get texts and calls, or plug in your phone with the USB port when youre low on battery.

Power and Durability

A big selling point for the 2025 Polaris Ranger line is the upgraded front end. The redesigned front bumper and grille are larger and more durable than previous iterations, for improved performance and appearance. Attached to the front end is a heavy-duty winch with a synthetic rope and auto-stop feature that will make light work of downed trees, loading items onto a trailer or pulling yourself or another vehicle out of a stuck spot.

With an 82-horsepower engine and new Gen 2 transmission, the Polaris Ranger XP 1000s shift easily between gears and can reach up to 60 miles per hour. When paired with the units three throttle control modes (performance, standard, work) you can expect to power over rough terrain and steep slopes, and have more acceleration control.

The NorthStar ultimate and premium are now equipped with 29-inch wheels and four-wheel, two-wheel and one-wheel drive, the latter of which can be used to preserve wet grass or other fragile ground from being torn up while you work. The larger wheels and 14-inch ground clearance mean you can stay dry when driving through flooded fields or low waterways.

Versatility and Add-Ons

There are almost endless uses for the Polaris Ranger NorthStar. The large cargo box can hold up to a thousand pounds and has a simple lever latch that allows you to tip the box up. This is incredibly helpful when moving heavy rocks, transporting and laying mulch, or planting trees and other large plants around your property.

The cargo box also has corrugated sides and bed to securely hold storage containers and tool boxes or partition the bed into separate sections. Additionally, hitch a trailer to the back and use the 2,500 pound towing capacity to move heavy equipment, lawn tools, decking or even a light boat.

Like there are many ways to upgrade a utility trailer, there are a ton of add-ons and accessories available for the Ranger NorthStar line. From storage racks and bed extenders to hydraulic lifts, generators and covers, Polaris has all the gear you can imagine on their website and Amazon. Two of my favorite add-ons are the snow plow and trash can hauler which turn cumbersome chores into a fun (and productive!) ride. If youre not quite sure which accessories would work best for you, Polaris offers six packages that filter down common tools and add-ons for large properties, farm work, hunting, trail riding and winter prep.

How We Tested It

I got the chance to test out the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar premium and ultimate vehicles at a ranch in Texas. I drove the premium NorthStar (the unit without a dash display and speakers) for about five hours and the ultimate (with those features) for about an hour and a half, mostly off-road. This included rocky ground, dusty trails, low waterways and up and down steep slopes. Heres what I thought.

Ride Performance

Starting to ride this side-by-side couldnt have been easier. After hopping into the UTV, I just turned the key, pushed the gear shift and started driving. I started off on a dusty dirt road, and can this thing move. Though the top speed is 60 miles per hour, even going half that made me feel like I was flying. This would be incredibly convenient for those with especially large properties to move around in a flash.

Once I switched over to off-trail riding, the strength of the Ranger NorthStar really shined. Despite being met with rocky earth that verged on boulders, the vehicle in four-wheel drive powered through without missing a beat. I was actually pretty impressed with how smooth the ride was, given the uneven terrain. Dont get me wrong, there were certainly bumps, but I never felt jolted or overly jostled, likely because of the larger tires and dual a-arm suspension.

When I was met with steep up or downward slopes, I tried out the performance and work throttles. When engaged, these modes definitely gave the UTV more power and control when moving up and down steep hills. Rather than sliding down or back a big decline/incline, the Ranger gripped the road and moved evenly, even when moving slowly.

Speaking of grip, I also drove the side-by-side through a few flooded spots on the trail as well as a flooded road. Though the water was about a foot deep, the vehicle had no problem driving through the water. It should be noted that even with the large tires, high clearance and sealed suspension, if you drive through water higher than the clearance, you will get a bit of moisture in the floor of the cab. Thats fairly high, though, and I didnt experience any water issues during my drive.

Something that I particularly enjoyed about riding these Rangers was the improved powered steering. The vehicle was incredibly easy to navigate, and even surprisingly nimble with a 160-inch turning radius. I could definitely see these side-by-sides being incredibly useful in cleaning up and maintaining a large home property.

Comfort

When it comes to creature comforts, it doesnt get much better than the Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar. When I first saw the bench seats and small, glass-mounted headrests, I was a bit nervous about how my body would feel after a few hours of driving. My fears were unfounded though, and I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable I was. If youre planning on riding around all day, every day, I could see you wanting to add more lumbar support or an extra seat cushion (our favorite seat cushion is in this list of the best car accessories), but more casual users will be perfectly content with the bench alone. The steering wheel can be tilted front and back, so it can be adjusted for drivers of different heights and sizes.

One of the best parts of this vehicle is the closed cab and climate control. As I mentioned, I drove the side-by-side off-road in Texas, which meant very hot and dusty rides. The HVAC system kept about 99% of the debris out (I had just a touch of dirt around my sunglass line and in my nostrils after several hours of driving). The air conditioning was an actual lifesaver. Even though it was only mid-April, it was extremely hot and sunny out and the air conditioning in the cab worked quickly and consistently to keep me cool. I can only imagine how great the heating element would be in the winter months, especially if you have to do some early morning plowing.

For the time I was able to drive the ultimate model, I made full use of the JBL speaker system and display screen. Using Bluetooth, my iPhone connected with little effort and I cranked the tunes. My music could be easily heard over the rumble of the engine and clearly heard outside the cab when the doors were open. When it comes to the touchscreen display, my favorite part was seeing the other Rangers in my group driving the trail through Ride Command. If you have multiple Polaris vehicles on a farm or together for an off-roading trip, making sure everyone is accounted for is a huge safety plus.

For those who are only interested in owning one Ranger NorthStar, I understand going with the paired-down premium version, without the display and sound system. This was the model I drove the most and it was great. Its certainly more utilitarian and cheaper (the premium Ranger NorthStar is five grand less than the ultimate) but I will say I did miss the additional tech of the ultimate after switching back to the premium. Theres just something about riding around with the music blasting!

Usability

The 2025 line has all the functionality and versatility of the Rangers previous iterations, plus a few bells and whistles. On the front of the side-by-side is a new front bumper and grille that will protect the front of the cab (and, well, you) from bumps and hits while driving as well as when pulling something on the winch. The winch itself is built into the UTV with a synthetic rope to resist fraying and a handy auto-stop thatll keep the end of the rope from being rolled into the winch. Plus, the winch is remote-controlled, so you can pull or release items from a safe distance.

At the back of the Ranger, the bed can be titled up with a lever near the middle of the vehicle. I was surprised how easily the bed lifted once unlatched, thanks to the added hydraulics. This means moving and dumping rocks, dirt, feed or sand are much more manageable tasks than if you had a wheelbarrow alone. Also, if you add a winch to the top of the cab, you can pull large logs or game hands-free into the bed, which will totally save your back. Once tiled up, you can get a good look at the upgraded ProStar engine and can perform routine maintenance as needed.

As I mentioned before, the bed of the truck has grooves along the bottom and up the sides to more securely hold storage bins, tool boxes and coolers. You can also partition the bed with a couple of boards as dividers. Additionally, there are round and rectangular holes all along the top of the walls where you can install storage or tool racks, mounts, a bed extender or flag pole, the options are extensive. An example of how thoughtful the design of this side-by-side is the inclusion of four cupholder spots on the tailgate so you can keep your beverage close as you work outside the vehicle.

Pros

• Closed cab with effective air filtration and climate control
• Powerful engine with lots of control
• Smoother ride
• JBL sound system standard on ultimate
• Very versatile
• Display includes GPS, trails and tracking other Polaris products

Cons

• Expensive
• Might be overkill if you have a smaller property, or only casually hunt or trail ride
• Add-ons can be pricey, especially when purchasing multiple

FAQ

What’s the difference between a Polaris Ranger 1000 and a Polaris Ranger 1000 XP?

According to the Polaris website, the Ranger 1000 and Ranger 1000 XP are very similar, but the 1000 XP has a newer engine with more horsepower (82 hp vs. 61 hp) as well as better seats, suspension and ground clearance.

How fast does a Polaris Ranger XP 1000 go?

The Polaris Ranger XP 1000 has a top speed of 60 mph, so you can zip around a farm or large property (or between multiple properties) in a snap.

How much does a Polaris Ranger Northstar weigh?

The Polaris NorthStar is an estimated 1913 pounds with a payload capacity of 1275 pounds.

Are Polaris Rangers reliable?

Yes, Rangers are reliable, Polaris is one of the top brands in the UTV industry. In addition to the durability upgrades for the 2025 line, Polaris also offers 1-year limited and 1-year factory warranty for these vehicles. You can also purchase additional or extended coverage with the Polaris Protection Plan which covers mechanical and electric parts, repairs, trip protection and vehicle pickup.

Can-Am vs Polaris

The most similar product on the market to the Polaris NorthStar ultimate is the Defender Limited from Cam-Am. These UTVs are closed cabs that seat 3 with same horsepower, ground clearance, box capacity, towing capacity and wheel drive options, and both have a dump bed, rear camera, tilt windshield with wipers, LED headlights and lots of add-on options. The Defender and Ranger are also similar in overall size. The base Cam-Am Defender costs $29,899 and the base Polaris NorthStar ultimate is $32,999 (the premium version comes in at $27,999).

While both UTVs have a display screen, the Polaris NorthStars is much more sophisticated. For one, its a large touchscreen that can display GPS coordinates and directions, driving information and control the music. The Defenders display, on the other hand, is a rectangle above the steering wheel that only displays driving information. Similarly, the Defender’s HVAC control is a single knob for the temperature and fan levels, whereas the NorthStar has separate knobs and a defrost switch.

The Defender does not come with a sound system standard, like the Ranger NorthStar ultimate does, but one can be added when building your vehicle for an additional $930-1,120.

If the upgraded tech isnt enough to sway you to the Polaris NorthStar, Id recommend testing each of these vehicles out for yourself at a local dealership. They are so close in specs and price, your personal ride experience and needs are even more important.

Final Verdict

If you have a large property or farm, multiple properties, trail ride, hunt or just work on a ton of outdoor chores, the Polaris 100 XP NorthStar ultimate or premium are definitely worth the high price tag. The vehicles are so versatile, especially with add-ons, and the closed cab and HVAC allow you to work all year round. Paired with the stellar tech and sound system of the ultimate edition, this is a top-tier tool.

Where to Buy the Polaris Ranger NorthStar

You can purchase the 2025 Polaris Ranger NorthStar ultimate and premium at a local dealership. You can also customize your UTV on the Polaris website and then be connected to dealer close to you to fulfill your order. RANGER add-ons, replacements, accessories and merch can be purchased on the Polaris store or Amazon storefront.

VIA MERCHANT

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Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar

Striking the perfect balance between comfort and performance, the 2025 Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar from Polaris is the ultimate maintenance tool for your property.

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The post We Tested the 2025 Polaris Ranger Lineup and The NorthStar is Worth Every Penny appeared first on Family Handyman.

I recently opted for CPVC during a recent home project instead of copper, my traditional choice. CPVC was especially useful in tight spaces where soldering was difficult or dangerous, and it saved on project costs.

Read on to learn about the properties, uses and advantages of CPVC pipe with three licensed plumbers Mitch Smedley from Smedley Plumbing, Claude Taylor from YouTube’s “How to Plumbing,” and David Carey from Worcester Technical High School.

What Is CPVC Pipe?

CVPC pipe is a hard, thermoplastic plumbing pipe. “CPVC piping is similar to PVC piping but also very different,” Smedley says. CPVC goes through an additional chlorinating process that increases its flexibility and working temperature range.

What Is CPVC Pipe Used For?

CPVC pipe is ideal for water supply lines. Taylor says it’s best “specifically hot water applications” but it can also be used for drain lines.

CPVC pipe pros and cons

Pros:

• Easy to install: It’s easy to cut and assemble using glue to connect fittings. You get high-quality results without the copper soldering chore. “You do not need a flame, so it is safer,” Carey says.
• Durable: Harsh water won’t harm the material, unlike copper, which will erode from acidic water. “[It] will not rust out,” Carey says. CPVC pipe tubing and fittings are perfect for areas of the country with aggressive water that eats away at copper pipes.
• Heat and pressure-resistant: CPVC is capable of carrying 200-degree water at 100 psi (water in the average home is about 125 degrees at 50 psi).
• Inexpensive: CPVC costs .50 to $1 per sq. ft., making it one of the cheapest plumbing pipe options.

Cons:

• Needs more support: Because of its flexibility (which can be an asset), you’ll need to support it more often than copper or galvanized steel every 32 to 36 inches.
• More brittle than metal pipes: CPVC is less tough than copper or galvanized steel. Take care not to strike it with a hammer, and be sure to use steel nail plates in wall framing if a nail or screw puncture is a possibility.
• Expands and contracts more than copper tubing: This is especially true in hot water lines. A 10-foot piece of tubing can grow in length by as much as 1/2 in.
• Requires slow-drying adhesive: “It takes eight hours for the glue to dry in some situations,” Carey says.

What’s the Difference Between CPVC and PVC Pipe?

There are several differences between CPVC and PVC pipes.

Applications

“PVC is only allowed to be used in drain, waste and vent plumbing applications,” Smedley says. It is not approved for use as a water supply line, whereas CPVC is primarily used in water delivery applications.

Heat tolerance

PVC starts to melt at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, while CPVC can tolerate hot water up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sizing

PVC and CPVC have different sizing measurements. “PVC will follow iron pipe sizing (IPS) whereas CPVC will follow Copper Tube Sizing (CTS),” Smedley says.

CVC or CPVC: Which Is Better?

It really depends on the application. “They both are great but for their own purposes,” Smedley says.

PVC is preferred for drain lines, as it is not as sensitive to certain chemicals as CPVC. CPVC is great for plumbing supply lines, especially hot water.

How To Tell if a Pipe Is PVC or CPVC

You can quickly distinguish between the light beige color of CPVC pipe and the bright white of PVC. If you’re unsure, look for the printing on the side of the pipe.

What Other Types of Pipes Are in Use Today?

There are a few other plumbing pipe options available.

PEX

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is a flexible plastic piping system used for cold and hot water supply lines. It is valued for being inexpensive, long-lasting and easy to install. It also requires fewer joints for a lower risk of leaks. However, PEX is not UV resistant and requires more support at fixtures due to its flexibility.

Copper

Copper plumbing pipes are long-lasting metal pipes that can withstand high temperatures. Copper pipes can be used for supply and drain lines.

However, it’s expensive, heavy and requires soldering for installation. “And if a copper water pipe freezes, the pipe will split,” Carey adds.

Polyethylene (PE)

PE is durable yet flexible plastic tubing typically used in cold water applications, such as supply lines, wells and irrigation systems. It is valued for its chemical resistance and ease of installation.

However, it cannot withstand high water temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you connect PVC and CPVC pipe?

“Mixing CPVC and PVC is not recommended,” Taylor says, especially with glue. Each material has a corresponding glue that will not work well on the other type.

If you have to join the two, Smedley recommends using adapters. “[Glue] a male adapter on one and a female adapter on the other,” he says. “Then thread them together using Teflon tape or pipe joint compound.”

Which pipe best for plumbing?

Which pipe is better for plumbing really depends on a few factors.

If money is no object, and you value time-tested durability, copper pipe is your best choice. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t want to solder pipes, CPVC is your best option. Carey prefers to use PEX because it doesn’t rust or corrode, and “if PEX freezes, it will just expand and not split.” Weigh the pros and cons of each type to fit your unique situation.

What kind of pipe is the cheapest?

“PEX and CPVC are the cheapest,” Carey says, with CPVC slightly cheaper than PEX.

How long do PVC and CPVC pipes last?

Expect a lifespan of 50 to 70 years. “They each should last a very long time as long as they aren’t damaged from freezing or UV rays,” Smedley says.

About the Experts

• Claude Taylor is a Master Plumber in Texas with over 30 years of residential and commercial experience. He is also the host of “How to Plumbing” on YouTube with over 50K subscribers.
• David Carey is a Master Plumber in Massachusetts with over 30 years of plumbing experience. He is also Department Head of Worcester Technical School‘s plumbing program in Worcester, Massachusetts.
• Mitch Smedley is a Master Plumber and owner of Smedley Plumbing in Kansas City, Missouri. He has 15 years of industry experience and hosts a YouTube channel of plumbing information and how-to’s.

The post What Is CPVC Pipe? Here’s Everything to Know appeared first on Family Handyman.

This video shows how to stamp a paver pattern into poured concrete. The end result is a solid slab that looks like pavers with less labor and cost than a traditional installation. Learn all about this money-saving pavers hack and whether it’s a good fit for your project.

How This Stamped Concrete Paver Hack Works

@spectersworld HACKS TO HELP U SAVE MONEY IN CONSTRUCTION. here is a trick on how you can save almost 30% on pavers and still archive the same look. use a metal frame with a design of your choice pour a concrete slab and press the frame onto the slab as it almost dries forming a pattern. #pavers #constructionhacks #designhacks #constructionlife #savemoney Paris – 3Hzwave

To do this hack, you’ll first want to get your hands on a concrete stamp. Concrete stamps come in various patterns, from a uniform paver pattern, the trellis pattern seen in the video or a more irregular stamp that mimics real flagstone. In addition to the stamp, you’ll need a shovel, hoe and wheelbarrow to mix the concrete, a hand or power compacter for the gravel base, and a circular saw, drill and hammer to build the forms.

Materials for this money-saving pavers hack will include 2x4s and wood screws for forms, and high-strength concrete mix and water for the concrete.

Once you have all the required materials, mix and pour concrete onto a compacted gravel base within wood forms. Wait until the concrete is almost dry, then press a stamp into the surface.

Will Using Concrete Actually Save You Money Over Pavers?

Yes, initially, using concrete rather than pavers can save you money since it will cost less to pour and stamp concrete than to install traditional pavers. However, whatever money you may save during initial installation can be lost over the years due to costly concrete repairs and a shorter life span.

Pavers may cost more, but they also last longer than concrete. You’re looking at 30 to 50 years for pavers, compared to 25 to 30 years for concrete. Concrete repair is also more costly than repairing pavers, usually requiring the help of a professional.

Also, if you opt to stain your stamped concrete, the color fades quickly and requires regular restaining.

Is This Hack Actually Easier Than Using Patio Pavers?

The answer to whether this concrete paver hack is actually easier than installing real pavers is yes and no.

The money-saving pavers hack is easier and faster than installing individual pavers. You’ll also be spared the task of pulling weeds between pavers. However, concrete is more challenging to repair and replace in the long term. Pavers perform better in freeze-thaw cycles, while concrete is more prone to cracking.

Repairing cracks in concrete is difficult and sometimes impossible. In stamped concrete, it can be hard to achieve a good-looking repair. In comparison, pavers are simple to remove and replace if necessary.

Adding to cost considerations, you’ll also need to replace concrete sooner than pavers.

The post This Patio Paver Hack Will Save Time, But Will It Save You Money? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Luckily, every year, Zonda releases its popular Cost vs. Value report. This report (also known as the CVV) takes a look at the most popular projects and compares their costs against the value they add to the home. The 2024 report leaned heavily toward exterior projects, opting for curb appeal value over energy efficiency or even adding to the home’s footprint.

Ahead, take a deep dive into the latest trends involving exterior projects and the value they add to homes.

Zonda Says Exterior Projects Win the Day

The latest Cost vs. Value report from Zonda shows exterior projects can yield the biggest return on investment (ROI). In fact, of the 23 top ROI projects listed by Zonda, nine were solely exterior projects (we didn’t include grand entrance renovations or window replacements in our count, both of which are on the list in various capacities).

These nine projects include garage door replacements, steel front door replacements, exterior stone veneer, siding replacements in vinyl and fiber cement, deck additions in composite and wood, and roofing replacements in shingles and standing seam. Their average return on investment? A whopping 107 percent (rounded up a couple of decimals).

That high ROI is a stark difference from the average of other projects on the list. The average ROI is around 55 percent for projects involving new windows, bathroom remodels of different grades, kitchen renovations of various quality and even HVAC conversions and some of those projects had massive price tags.

Which Projects Offered the Most ROI?

Establishing your budget is an important part of planning any renovation. But, knowing how much a project might pay back in terms of the home’s resale value is an important factor to consider. Zonda’s report obviously showed that exterior projects offer the most ROI, but which projects offered the best return percentages? Hint: Lower-cost projects with major curb appeal upsides fared the best.

Overall, the project with the best ROI in 2024 was a garage door replacement. On average, this project cost around $4,513 and yielded an increase in value of $8,751 for a return percentage of 194 percent. In second place is a steel front door replacement, which cost an average of $2,355 and provided a value increase of $4,430 for an ROI of 188 percent.

The lowest return on the survey belonged to standing seam roofing replacement, which cost an average of $49,928, added $24,034, and provided a return of only 48 percent.

Here’s a full breakdown of the nine exterior projects in the top 23, their costs, their values, and the ROI they yield:

CVV 2023 vs. 2024: What’s Changed?

It’s not necessarily big news that exterior projects with major curb appeal impact would rank toward the top of the 2024 CVV report. Last year’s report highlighted these projects’ high values, as well. For instance, the second place spot on the old list went to garage doors, with a cost of $4,302 and added $4,418 in value, yielding an ROI percentage of 103 percent (rounded up). The third spot went to stone veneer, which cost $10,925, added $11,177 in value, and returned just slightly less at 102 percent.

The most surprising change was the top spot. In 2023, HVAC electrification conversions were No. 1, costing $17,747 and adding $18,366 in value for an ROI of 103.5 percent. This year, HVAC conversions fell to the #12 overall spot, yielding just 66% percent ROI.

Here’s where this year’s top 9 exterior projects stacked up:

What This Means for Pros in 2024

Truthfully, the Zonda CVV is one of the most valuable sales tools that the average professional can use. Armed with the information about the projects that provide the best return on investment, they can use the data to help close their sales. By comparing the customer’s return to their profit margins, contractors can choose which projects to specialize in, especially if those projects basically sell themselves.

Real estate agents will also start sharing this data with their clients. If you are a contractor, consider contacting real estate agents to build relationships and check with your suppliers to ensure they have a steady supply of materials for these popular projects in 2024.

The post Which Home Exterior Projects Have the Most Value in 2024? appeared first on Family Handyman.

“The first thing you want to do is inspect the stucco for any damage, or cracks,” Mardis says.

• Walk around your house and assess the stucco.
• Look for cracks, chips and flaking paint.
• Note any cracks you can fit a credit card into (about 1/8 inch or larger). You’ll fix these before painting.

The post How To Paint Stucco appeared first on Family Handyman.

When I was an electrical apprentice, I got shocked so hard it knocked me down. That incident could have been prevented with a GFCI. Later, I spent the better part of a month installing AFCI protection in hundreds of college dorms, only to find out I didn’t have any in my own home. I remedied that quickly, let me tell you! And you can, too.

Find out all you need to know about AFCI vs. GFCI outlets ahead.

What is a GFCI Outlet?

A GFCI outlet (receptacle) protects against electric shock by monitoring the electrical current flowing through the GFCI. If there’s even a tiny difference (4 to 6 milliamps) between the hot and neutral wires, the GFCI assumes the stray current could be going through a person, and de-energizes almost instantly.

To put 4 to 6 milliamps in perspective, 10 milliamps can cause people to lose the ability to let go of an object, and at approximately 100 milliamps you’re at risk of death (depending on several factors like age, weight and exposure time).

What does GFCI stand for?

Ground fault circuit interrupter. GFCI protection can be provided by receptacles or breakers, and they must be installed in a readily accessible location so you can reach them if they trip.

What is a ground fault?

A ground fault is a type of short circuit that happens when a hot wire comes in contact with a part of an electrical installation that’s not supposed to be energized, like an electrical box, or the outside of your toaster or washing machine.

If you happen to be touching the electrified object, the current could go through you unless the circuit quickly de-energizes.

Are GFCIs required?

Yes. Because GFCIs are safety devices, the National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates their use in specific rooms and circuits in new construction, like:

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Sinks (within 6 feet)
• Outdoors
• Basements and crawl spaces
• Garages and outbuildings
• Laundry areas
• Other damp and wet locations, as well as specific appliances like dishwashers and sump pumps

Always check with your local jurisdiction to see what’s required.

Do GFCI outlets go bad?

They can, so it’s a good idea to test them monthly. Have you ever tested yours? People rarely do, so since 2015, GFCIs have had an internal self-test function. Once a GFCI reaches the end of its lifespan, it shuts off power to the device (indicated by a light on the front).

Even with self-testing, you should still do a manual test every month to check the mechanical tripping mechanism.

How to wire a GFCI outlet

There are two sets of connections on a GFCI: Line and Load. These will be clearly marked, and if the GFCI is new there will be a piece of yellow tape over the load connections. Only use the load side if you’re protecting other devices on the same circuit.

To wire a single GFCI, use the line terminals. The hot wire goes on the brass screw, the neutral on the silver. To protect receptacles “downstream” of the GFCI, remove the yellow tape and use the load side screws to connect to the next receptacle.

Always properly ground the receptacle and circuit using the green ground screw.

How to reset and test a GFCI outlet

A GFCI has two buttons: “Test” and “Reset.” To test a GFCI, press the “Test” button until you hear an audible click. This opens the contacts inside the device, indicating that the GFCI is operational. Then, hit the “Reset” button to put things back into place.

If your GFCI trips, push the “Reset” button to reset it. Occasional trips are fine, but if it happens frequently, get it checked out by a licensed electrician.

Another way to test a GFCI is to use a GFCI receptacle tester. Plug the tester in and hit the button. You should hear a click, and the power light will go off. Remove the tester and reset the GFCI using the Reset button.

What is an AFCI Outlet?

An AFCI receptacle (aka outlet) protects your home from fires by constantly monitoring the circuit for evidence of dangerous electrical arcs. An AFCI can sense the difference between brief, regular arcs inherent in certain electrical applications (like a light switch), and abnormal ones caused by a worn wire.

What does AFCI stand for?

Arc-fault circuit interrupter. Just like a GFCI, AFCI protection can be provided by receptacles or circuit breakers, and they must be readily accessible.

What is an arc fault?

An arc fault is a type of abnormal electrical discharge. Damaged wires and improper connections can cause electricity to “jump” between damaged sections of a conductor, or between multiple conductors, placing nearby combustible materials at risk.

Are AFCIs required?

Yes. Almost every room in newly-constructed homes requires AFCI protection, including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, hallways and closets. Basically, the only places you don’t need AFCIs are bathrooms and garages, but always verify with your local code authority.

Do AFCI outlets go bad?

They can go bad, so they should be tested monthly, just like GFCIs.

How to wire an AFCI outlet

Wire an AFCI receptacle just like a GFCI. Use the line side to bring power to the AFCI receptacle, and the load side to provide AFCI protection to the rest of the circuit. Always properly ground the receptacle and circuit using the green ground screw.

How to reset and test an AFCI outlet

To test an AFCI receptacle, push the “Test” button on the front. You should hear an audible click. Reset the AFCI by pushing the “Reset” button. You can also purchase an AFCI receptacle tester (often combined with a GFCI tester) to test the receptacle.

What’s the Difference Between GFCI and AFCI Outlets?

Both AFCI and GFCI protection monitor circuits for electrical faults, and shut off power to the device when they detect a problem. The difference is that AFCIs protect your home from fires, while GFCIs protect people from electrical shock.

GFCI vs. AFCI Outlets: Which Is Right For Me?

In new construction, AFCI vs. GFCI usage will be determined by code requirements. The NEC is published every three years, occasionally adding locations that need protection. States and cities adopt the code at different intervals, so depending on where you live you may have different requirements.

In older homes, you are not required to retrofit your existing fault protection unless you update your wiring. But, because adding AFCI and GFCI protection is as easy as swapping out one receptacle per circuit, you can add these important safety devices at any time. Just follow the NEC to know which one goes where, and make sure they’re readily accessible.

FAQs

How can you tell if an outlet is GFCI vs. AFCI?

It’s a little hard to tell AFCI vs. GFCI, but they’re labeled on the front of the device. You may also see a sticker on the outside of a regular receptacle (outlet) if it is protected by another device. Stickers are provided for this purpose when you buy AFCI and GFCI receptacles.

Are GFCIs or AFCIs surge protectors?

No. Surge protectors suppress voltage spikes from lightning and other power surges. Surge protectors have a maximum number of joules (a unit of energy) they can absorb before you need to get another one. AFCIs and GFCIs have no specified limits of protection.

Do GFCIs or AFCIs prevent fires?

AFCIs prevent fires. GFCIs protect people from shock.

Can I use a GFCI or AFCI breaker instead of an outlet?

Yes. The NEC requires AFCI and GFCI protection, not receptacles or outlets. Breakers are a convenient way to accomplish the required protection.

The post GFCI vs. AFCI Outlets: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Family Handyman.

But while you can’t have two fans with one vent, you can make one fan and one vent serve two bathrooms. This setup requires an in-line exhaust fan.

Read on to learn about installation costs, how to buy the right size and how to know if an inline exhaust fan is the right solution for your venting needs. Three industry pros, Matthew Labrecque from All Air HVAC, Jay Ryan from Boulanger’s Plumbing and Heating and Peter Glover from Glover’s Plumbing offer pro tips and insights on this versatile exhaust fan option.

What Is an Inline Exhaust Fan?

An inline or remote exhaust fan is a type of home ventilation fan installed within the ductwork. These fan types are typically mounted in the attic, rather than in the room it ventilates.

A common use for inline exhaust fans is to vent two bathrooms. A plastic exhaust grille in each bathroom (usually in the ceiling) attaches to ducts, which then fasten to a “Y” connector at the fan. From the fan, a single exhaust duct exits through the roof. Each bathroom has its own switch and operates independently.

Inline exhaust fans can also be used to move warm air throughout a home, like from a wood stove to a garage or basement, remove radon gas or vent a range hood in the kitchen.

Inline Exhaust Fans vs. Standard Bathroom Exhaust Fans

While both fans remove humidity and odors from your bathroom, each system has pros and cons.

Inline exhaust pros and cons

Pros

• An inline vent system is quiet. Because the fan is in the attic, you’ll hardly hear it. They are also available in larger, more powerful options than any standard bath fan.
• The inline fans perform better over longer duct lines because of the extra power.
• They maintain their advertised cubic feet per minute (CFM) air extraction rating over longer distances.
• Less ductwork and holes in the roof for hood vents with an inline system.

Cons

• Applications can be limited, as you’ll need accessible attic space to install an inline fan.
• Material and installation costs are also much higher than a standard exhaust fan.
• Ryan points to a lack of customization options and added features as a drawback of inline fans. “An inline fan is just a fan,” he says. “It doesn’t have all the added features of a bathroom fan.”

Standard bathroom exhaust fan pros and cons

Pros

• A standard bathroom exhaust fan is less expensive than an inline system.
• They are easier to install yourself or cost less if hiring a pro.
• They come with a lot of optional features, too. “You can get one with a room light, a night light, a motion sensor or humidity sensor,” Ryan says.

Cons

• A standard bathroom exhaust fan is louder when operating than an inline fan.
• They tend to have weaker motors and poorer suction than inline fans.
• Each unit requires independent ductwork and an outside vent hood, which can be problematic in a home with lots of bathrooms.

How to Use an Inline Exhaust Fan to Vent More Than One Bathroom

First, install plastic exhaust grills in each bathroom ceiling. Run 4-in. flexible ductwork from the grills to the inline fan. Connect each duct to a “Y” connector, then secure it to the inline fan. A single 6-in. duct runs from the fan to the vent hood through the roof.

Some inline fans have plugs and others are hard-wired. Each bathroom is also wired to operate independent power switches.

How to Calculate the Size of the Inline Exhaust Fan You Need

For a standard two-bathroom application, first measure each bathroom’s square footage (length X width) and add these numbers for the total square footage.

When shopping for an inline fan, look for a model with a CFM air extraction rate that is slightly more than the bathrooms’ square footage. For example, if the total is 130 sq. ft., look for a fan with a 140 to 160 CFM rating.

“You’re trying to come up with a CFM that will keep the humidity down,” Ryan says. He adds that some models come with a range of CFM that can be adjusted to suit your bathroom ventilation needs.

FAQs

Can you vent a bathroom and a range hood together?

No. “A kitchen vent is considered combustible, so it needs to be on its own exhaust system,” Glover says.

How much does it cost to install an inline exhaust fan?

Expect to pay at least $2,500 to $3,000 for an inline exhaust fan installation.

Can inline exhaust fans be too big?

Yes. Oversized fans can incur higher operational costs, expel warm air from your living space, and potentially induce a vacuum effect by expelling an excessive amount of air that needs replacing.

About the Experts

• Matthew Labrecque is the owner of All Air HVAC located in South Hadley, Massachusetts. The company specializes in heating and cooling installation and repairs, ductwork and air purification systems in new and existing homes. He has over 18 years of industry experience.
• Peter Glover is the owner of Glover’s Plumbing in Kenner, Louisiana, a residential plumbing company. He is a Master Plumber with over fifteen years of experience.
• Jay Ryan is HVAC project manager for Boulanger’s Plumbing and Heating in Easthampton, Massachusetts. He’s been with Boulanger’s since 2001 and holds a Master Plumber License in the State of Massachusetts.

The post Inline Exhaust Fans: How to Use Them to Vent Multiple Bathrooms appeared first on Family Handyman.

Were People Renovating in 2023?

Yes! The 2024 Houzz Home Study shows that people are still renovating, though the percentage of homeowners who performed renovations did dip slightly between 2022 and 2023. But even with the slight dip, 56 percent of the survey respondents stated they did take on a home renovation in 2023. Along with renovations, 56 percent of the respondents undertook a decorating project, while 47 percent performed some type of home repair.

What’s in store for 2024? Fifty-two percent of respondents state they’re planning a renovation this year. When it comes to decorating, 46 percent stated a project was on the schedule. Repairing drops quite a bit to 33 percent, but repairs can come up out of nowhere.

How Much Are People Spending on Renovations?

Whether due to inflation or the type of projects becoming more popular, renovation spending continues to rise. In 2021, the average renovation spend was around $18,000, according to the Houzz Home Study. That rose $6,000 in 2023, with the average spend being $24,000.

Do those numbers seem high? They might be slightly skewed by the top 10 percent of project spenders. The 90th percentile spent in 2021 was $100,000, and that rose 50 percent in 2023, opening the register to the tune of $150,000.

Planned spending does drop significantly for 2024, though. The average planned renovation spend per household in 2024 is $15,000$9,000 less than 2023’s average actual spend. Even for the big spenders in that top 10 percent, the expected spend for 2024 renovations is $80,000.

Planning Home Renovations

We’ve already mentioned that 52 percent of homeowners plan to undertake a renovation project in 2024. And plan they will.

Houzz’s study shows that homeowners spend more time planning their projects than their projects actually take. It depends on the project, but planning typically takes around twice as long. Here are the averages:

• Kitchens: 9.6 months spent planning, 5.1 months under construction

• Living rooms: 8.1 months spent planning, 4.1 months under construction

• Entry/foyer/mudroom projects: 7.9 months spent planning, 3.6 months under construction

• Primary bathrooms: 7.8 months spent planning, 3.9 months under construction

• Guest bathrooms: 7.5 months spent planning, 3.8 months under construction

Is this a problem? Probably not. It’s just homeowners performing their own version of “measure twice, cut once.” Homeowners are becoming wiser and more empowered, so it makes sense that they would do more in-depth planning on their own and shop for contractors they want to work with.

How Renovation Budgets Break Down

Renovation budgets are climbing. The Houzz Home Study shows that the percentage of homeowners spending more than $25,000 on their renovation rose to 51 percent in 2023. That’s up from 44 percent in 2021 and up from 37 percent in 2020. Only 25 percent of homeowners completed projects for less than $10,000, and the reported percentage between $10,000 and $25,000 dropped from 27 percent in 2021 to 23 percent in 2023.

The biggest percentage change between 2021 and 2023 is in the $100,000 and above range. In 2021, only 12 percent of homeowners planned these expensive renovations. In 2023, that number rose five percentage points to 17 percent the largest swing in the survey.

The three most popular ways to pay for these projects include cash from savings, credit cards, and a secured home loan.

• Cash from savings remained by far the most popular, with 83 percent of homeowners using this for renovations regardless of their price.

• Credit card usage did climb 9 percentage points overall, reaching 37 percent of renovation projects. For projects between $1,000 and $5,000, it climbed to 40 percent. For projects between $50,000 and $200,000, the percentage rose to 32 percent.

• Secured home loans made up 14 percent of budget spending resources. In the $1,000 to $5,000 range, this only made up 8 percent. But between $50,000 and $200,000, home loans make up 23 percent.

It’s important to note that these weren’t the intended spending amounts in many cases. Houzz’s survey showed that 76 percent of homeowners set budgets. However, 39 percent of respondents went over their set budgets in 2023. Unforeseen costs for products and services, expensive materials selections, and increased project complexity were the common culprits for going over budget.

Upward Trends in Renovations

Certain trends remained prominent in the latest Houzz survey. From the amount spent to who’s performing the work and which projects are most popular, there are definitely some signs of consistency.

Spending is climbing

The amount homeowners are spending on their renovations continues to climb. Regardless of whether they’re going over budget or not, the average spend was $24,000 in 2023, up from $15,000 in 2020.

Gen X is still spending the most on renovations

For the second straight year, Gen X continued to spend the most on renovation. This demographic spent an average of $25,000 in 2023, edging out Baby Boomers’ $24,000.

Pros are busy

Nine out of 10 homeowners undertaking a renovation are calling professional contractors to help. Forty-six percent of homeowners called specialty service providers in 2022, and that percentage climbed to 47 percent in 2023. Surprisingly, however, homeowners are choosing to be their own general contractors, with only 42 percent calling GCs in 2023 (down from 44 percent in 2022).

Kitchens and bathrooms are still the most popular projects

The most popular project choices haven’t changed. Kitchens remain the most popular project, with 29 percent of respondents undertaking a kitchen renovation. Bathrooms are the second most popular, with guest bathrooms (27 percent) being slightly more popular than primary bathrooms (25 percent).

Renovations Aren’t Slowing Down

If the Houzz Home Study has shown us anything, renovations aren’t slowing down any time soon. Even the small decreases in spending or percentages are offset by other categories, whether it’s the project type, budget, or financing. 2024 will be another busy year for the renovation and home improvement industry.

The post Key Takeaways From the 2024 Houzz Home Study appeared first on Family Handyman.

Using that wood has created a lot of problems, though. Much of it has been (and still is being) cut down faster than it can regrow. Ecologically speaking, harvesting virgin forests does a lot of damage not just to the creatures and birds who live in them but to humans, too.

“Forests provide habitat for animals and plants, clean and regulate the water system, regulate the climate, provide recreational opportunities to people, and provide wood and non-timber products we can harvest,” says Frederik Laleicke, a wood products extension specialist at North Carolina State University. “Some forests are protected sites for Indigenous people and others are the main source of income for local communities. There is so much more in a forest than just the wood!”

Because forests are more than the sum of their trees, old forests can’t just be regrown, at least not in our grandchildren’s lifetimes. They take centuries or more to mature. And that’s why buying sustainable lumber from responsibly managed forests is essential.

“If there’s an opportunity to take the extra step and use sustainable wood, it is even better for our environment and communities,” says Laleicke. “We must ensure that the forest stays intact as much as possible so it can continue to provide.”

To help with that, here’s how to find sustainable wood for your next project.

What Is Sustainable Wood?

Sustainable wood is lumber from responsibly managed forests that are tended with respect for environmental and community needs.

“Done right, forest management can provide a perpetual supply of timber while maintaining the integrity of forest ecosystems,” says Jason Grant, Manager of Corporate Engagement for Forests atWorld Wildlife Fund. “Also, forests that are managed have value for local people and are therefore less likely to be cleared for other land uses such as agriculture and development.”

Sustainable Wood Certifications

Sustainable wood is typically certified, with a logo stamped or printed onto the product or packaging. The two most common certifications are:

• FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
• SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative)

These certifications include how the forests are managed and track the chain of custody from when the wood is chopped down to when it gets turned into a product.

Where To Find Sustainable Wood

Most building materials stores offer sustainable wood. You can also use FSC’s online search tool to find local suppliers.

“Sustainable wood isn’t rare anymore,” says Laleicke. “Most major lumber companies produce it. It might take a few phone calls to suppliers and sawmills to find the right product, but it’s worth it to know that a new forest is already growing where the wood for our house came from.”

How To Tell if Wood Is Sustainable

Outside of FSC and SFI certifications, there is no sure way to tell if the wood is sustainable unless you happen to know the forest source or are willing to trust the assurances of the seller. “Because FSC has the strongest environmental and social standards, WWF recommends that people ask for FSC-certified wood,” says Grant.

What Type of Wood Is Most Sustainable?

Endangered tree species aside (which consumers have little chance of encountering), “There is no such thing as good or bad wood,” says Grant. “In other words, the type of wood or lumber doesn’t matter, but rather the forest practices that stand behind it.”

Beyond that, Laleicke recommends buying a species that grows in your area, from a local sawmill. “This is very similar to purchasing locally produced food items,” he says. “The purchase will benefit local businesses and support sustainable forest management in the area. Finding the right type of wood for a project can take time, but this is what makes the outcome outstanding.”

Is Sustainable Wood Expensive?

Not really. FSC-certified products are often 5 to 10% more expensivethough not always.

The higher cost comes from the extra effort sustainability requires, from growing and harvesting the tree to milling and processing it. “Certification is very stringent and requires a lot of additional documentation,” Laleicke says.

About the Experts

Frederik Laleicke is an assistant professor and wood products extension specialist at NC State University. He also teaches workshops about the processing of wood, and regularly visits sawmills and wood products companies in North Carolina and beyond.

Jason Grant is World Wildlife Fund‘s manager of corporate engagement for forests, through which he helps businesses with responsible wood sourcing practices, forest restoration and combating illegal logging. WWF also recently launched a wood risk tool, which give insights on whether a wood species or location of origin makes it particularly prone to being not sustainable.

The post What Is Sustainable Wood? Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Family Handyman.

Dry-Pack Mortar

This is the traditional tile backer. First, felt paper is stapled to the floor and covered with expanded metal lath. Then cement, sand and water are mixed together to a crumbly consistency and floated over the lath to form a flat surface.

Given the complexity, its easy to see why even experienced tile setters avoid dry-pack mortar and use backer board instead when they can. But a mortar bed does have advantages. There is no cutting or fitting of boards, and a mortar bed is good for leveling and flattening uneven or out-of-level floors, which are common in old houses. If you are good with a trowel and understand how to set up and use screeds as a guide for leveling or forming the mortar, pouring a traditional mortar bed may be a good alternative to tile backer board, especially on uneven or sloping floors.

The post Pros and Cons of Various Tile Backers appeared first on Family Handyman.

Paint the Trim First, Then the Ceilings and Walls

Finally, the answer we’ve all been waiting for. Professional painters usually follow a certain order when painting a room. They paint the trim first (the Bucket Edge is a must-have tool that leaves trim and other surfaces untouched while painting), then the ceiling, then the walls. That’s because it’s easier (and faster) to tape off the trim than to tape off the walls. And you certainly don’t want to tape them both off.

When painting the trim, you don’t have to be neat. Just concentrate on getting a smooth finish on the wood. Don’t worry if the door and trim paint gets slopped onto the walls. You’ll cover it later when painting walls. Once the trim is completely painted and dry (at least 24 hours), tape it off (using an “easy release” painter’s tape), then paint the ceiling, then continue on to wall painting.

$84.99 at Amazon

The post Best-Kept Secrets of Professional Painters appeared first on Family Handyman.

ERIN LAW PHOTOGRAPHY/COURTESY CATHY HARMS

$161.97 at Home Depot

$120.99 at Amazon

If you’re looking for a shop vacuum that can support big messes, the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac should be your first choice. Ridgid has been a leading manufacturer of shop vacs for years, and this model is an excellent example of why this brand is so popular. Combining powerful suction power, durability, lightweight design, and well-designed accessory storage, this 16-gallon model checks all the boxes and is large enough to handle a full day of debris cleanup without being emptied.

Built with a 6.5 horsepower motor, this particular vac is made for heavy-duty projects. A pleated cartridge filter comes with this model and is excellent at capturing general debris, but I recommend replacing the stock filter with a HEPA filter and dust collection bag.

There’s an accessory storage rack along the back and additional storage over the rear wheels. The accessories allow me to get in-between and under car seats to suck up everythingCheerios, puzzle pieces, sand, LEGOS, you name it, it’s under there. When paired with a Dust Deputy Cyclone Separator or DeWalt Separator, the Rigid wet/dry vacuum turns into a high-capacity, two-stage dust collection system, and with a large drum size, can capture a day’s worth of debris from the table saw or planer.

The Ridgid has easily accessible cord storage where I can quickly wrap the 20-foot cord out of the way, which is essential in a smaller workshop where space is at a premium. With a height of about 25 inches, this 16-gallon vac is tall enough to grab the top and side handles without bending over too far and makes it easier to push around corners and doorways without banging into walls. It sucked up two gallons of water in just five seconds and took four seconds to handle a mess of cat litter and screws.

The post The 9 Best Dust Collector Machines for Woodworking, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.