Brian Simkins is a freelance writer living in Chicago. He enjoys using his 14 years of home improvement experience to educate and equip new homeowners.
Brian's focus on DoItYourself.com has been on providing detailed How-Tos that empower even the most novice DIYer. He helps readers tackle easy fixes like "How to Replace a Doorbell" or "Shorten a Door," as well as taking them through in-depth projects like "How to Lay Tile over Concrete" or "How To Repair Leaks in Your Roof."
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Sharpen a Rotary Mower BladeTackle your lawn with a mower in top condition....
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Repair Common Toilet Problems
Your toilet is operated by a fairly simple system of levers, floats, and seals....
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How to Install a Bathtub: Planning and Tub Options
Remodeling a bathroom requires careful planning....
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How to Install a Bathtub: Tools and SuppliesKeep time from going down the drain with the right supplies....
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Build Closet Shelving - Planning and DesigningUse your closet well with an organized shelving system....
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Install a Bathroom Exhaust FanInstall an exhaust fan and prevent mildew in your bathroom in four steps....
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Install a Slate Floor 3 - Grouting and Clean Up
Once the last pieces of tile are set, you can begin cleaning up the slate portion of your insta...
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Cabinet Refacing - Planning and PreparationRefacing cabinets requires significant prep work....
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Cabinet Refacing 3 - Cabinet Boxes and Hardware
Inspect your material when it arrives....
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Finding the Right Type of InsulationChoosing the right insulation for your home is important....
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Install a Slate Floor 2 - Installing the Slate
Slate tiles are durable and easy to clean....
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Cabinet Refacing 2 - Tools and SuppliesCollect your tools for easy access as you work....
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Custom Closet ShelvingPrebuy some components or build them yourself....
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Maintain and Weatherstrip a Garage DoorA properly maintained door will last the life of your home....
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Guide to Molding Types and MaterialsWooden molding can do quite a bit to beautify your home....
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Install a Slate Floor 1 - Inspecting the MaterialsChoosing Slate as an option for hard surface flooring....
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Simple Deck RepairsDeck repairs are common on the home maintenance list....
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Sliding Screen Door Problems and How to Fix ThemRepairing your sliding glass door is a breeze....
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Shorten a DoorTake these steps so you don't weaken the door's structure....
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Build Closet Shelving 2 - Materials and ToolsThe task is always easier with the right tools and supplies....
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Plan Your Exterior Painting ProjectIt's one of the most common home improvement jobs....
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Secure Doors and Windows with Simple HardwareHere are some simple things you can do to increase the security of your home....
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 1 - Intro and Materials
Intro - Preparation - Mixing and Pouring - Screeding and Finishing - Clean Up Millions of pe...
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Guide to Building a Fireplace Mantel
In many homes, the central living space is found in a family room setting with a fireplace as i...
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 4 - Screeding and Finishing
Intro - Preparation - Mixing and Pouring - Screeding and Finishing - Clean Up Screeding At thi...
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Patch Wallpaper
When wallpaper is new and in good shape it can add a lot of depth, richness and character to a...
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When Potted Plants Need a New Home
At some point, any plant that is growing and maturing will need to move to a new, bigger pot. E...
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 3 - Mixing and Pouring
Intro - Preparation - Mixing and Pouring - Screeding and Finishing - Clean Up There are trad...
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How to Replace a Doorbell
So your doorbell doesn't work. This is one of those home maintenance projects that is constant...
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Dealing With Bears When CampingEvery camping trip requires basic preparation. A camping trip in bear country requires addition...
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Window Trim Tools, Materials and Terminology
The interior trim work on your windows can help define the feeling and ambiance of a room. Whe...
