Articles from Paul Bianchina
For over 30 years, Paul Bianchina has been combining his two loves, building and writing. Contractor, author, and nationally syndicated columnist, Paul provides his readers with practical home improvement advice that’s written in a clear and easy to understand style.
Deck railings become fun and exciting
Myriad materials, designs let homeowners' imaginations run wild
October 3, 2008
Top ways to boost curb appeal
Whether selling or staying, first impression makes world of difference
September 26, 2008
Miter saw great for DIY projects
Versatility, power more than make up for high price
September 19, 2008
Buying remodeled home can be hassle
Without permits, getting home insurance is difficult
September 12, 2008
Staging home for sale worth the cost
Property will often sell more quickly and for higher price
September 5, 2008
Don't let home inspector out of your sight
Before buying, it pays to know property's condition
August 29, 2008
Power tools make house painting a cinch
Do-it-yourselfers wise to invest in paint sander, airless sprayer
August 21, 2008
Composite decking not infallible
Despite benefits over natural wood, warping and rotting still possible
August 15, 2008
Want a fancier-looking room? Try wainscoting
Do-it-yourself design and installation tips
August 8, 2008
GFCI electrical outlets are lifesavers
If home doesn't have any, get them installed
August 1, 2008
Excavation's the first step in deck building
Before digging, know where utilities are located
July 25, 2008
Backyard deck a perfect DIY project
Tips for improving structural integrity, aesthetics
July 18, 2008
Put lawn upkeep on autopilot
A look at the latest in sprinkler timers
July 11, 2008
Vinyl adhesive a nightmare to remove
Job best tackled with putty knife, mineral spirits
July 7, 2008
Some remodels endure endless inspections
What building officials look for during site visits
June 27, 2008
Some plumbing materials shouldn't be mixed
How to safely connect pipes of different styles
June 20, 2008
Last-minute gifts for Father's Day
You can't go wrong with quality home-improvement tools
June 13, 2008
Shopping for wallpaper made easy
Don't leave home without floor and paint samples, room dimensions
June 6, 2008
Deck-staining that can't fail
Look for product that resists water, mildew
May 30, 2008
Organization tips for kitchen pantry
Find items easier whether it's a walk-in or cabinet design
May 23, 2008
Latest trends in kitchen cabinets
When remodeling, choose sizes and styles with resale value in mind
May 16, 2008
Straw houses gaining acceptance despite concerns
Many enticed by low construction costs, energy efficiency
May 9, 2008
When replacing door, go with prehung unit
Vital details you need to know before ordering
May 2, 2008
Building permits are nothing to fear
Find out which projects require them, which don't
April 25, 2008
New home technology wows builders
Turbo oven, eco-heater, no-fail sump pump among latest products
April 18, 2008
How to pick the right furnace for your home
Grill contractors on preferences, warranty, then ask for references
April 11, 2008
Remodel dilemma: Paint or replace doorknobs?
Homeowner wants knobs to match bronzed bathroom fixtures
April 4, 2008
Painting tips from the pros
How to save time, eliminate mistakes, expedite clean-up
March 28, 2008
What's causing drafty kitchen cabinet?
Adjacent appliance's exhaust pipe likely needs insulation
March 25, 2008
Faulty dip tube linked to cold showers
Tips on how to replace plastic fitting inside water heater
March 21, 2008
Cost to remove backyard oil tank soars to $11K
Homeowner seeks help disputing contractor's charge
March 18, 2008
Air compressors improved for do-it-yourselfers
More choices available as makers solve portability, cost issues
March 14, 2008
Two-day, $2,000 room makeover not reality
Behind the scenes of home-improvement TV shows
March 11, 2008
Periodic flush does a water heater good
Tips on performing job safely, efficiently
March 7, 2008
Don't clean deck with pressure washer
Homeowner's mistake leaves behind 'fuzzy' mess
March 4, 2008
Get rid of 'popcorn' ceilings all at once
Despite disruption, it will lower overall cost and improve home's resale value
February 29, 2008
Energy audit helps save on heating, cooling bills
Find out which areas in your home are wasting energy
February 22, 2008
Changing out windows tricky with aluminum siding
Homeowner seeks advice on quality vinyl products
February 19, 2008
Kitchen is no place to skimp on lighting
Brightening tips to make cooking, cleaning even more fun
February 15, 2008
Best way to heat, cool McMansion
Deciding among electricity, propane, geothermal or solar
February 12, 2008
High-efficiency furnace offers big payback
Savings over cheaper model seen after 6.25 years
February 8, 2008
Old linoleum floor may contain asbestos
If so, is removal necessary before installing new flooring?
February 5, 2008
Power tools: tips for safe operation
Clothes, eyewear, workspace just as vital as proper tool usage
February 1, 2008
Cast-iron pipes shouldn't be oozing tar
Repairing pipe joints can be difficult, dangerous job
January 29, 2008
Lithium-ion battery wins over remodelers
More power, less weight improves tools' efficiency
January 25, 2008
Beware of kitchen-range fire hazard
Can fireproof material compensate for inadequate cabinet clearance?
January 22, 2008
Three must-haves for a good paint job
Without proper prep, finished product could be disaster
January 18, 2008
How to ensure a problem-free remodel
Dos and don'ts of hiring a contractor, agreeing on price
January 15, 2008
Asthma gets worse in manufactured home
Tips on how to isolate allergens with minimal cost, disruption
January 11, 2008
Best way to eliminate roof algae
Applying 3-ingredient solution preferred to high-pressure wash
January 8, 2008
Bathroom remodel bad for water heater
Improvements to ensure fast hot water backfire
January 4, 2008
Best way to fix popping nails
Don't think you're done after pounding them back into wall
January 2, 2008
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