Knowing when to paint is just as important as knowing what to paint. Painting under the best weather conditions, at optimum temperatures, and allowing adequate drying time ensures good surface adhesion. Low temperatures and rain Obviously, paint is not going to stick when it is raining. But, it is best to stop painting at least eight hours before anticipated showers. Some paint can labels go further, advising stopping 24... more

Glass has been a feature in human life since before Christ. The Romans learned how to make glass about 400 BC — not to make windows but jewelry and goblets. The Germanic tribes up north in the colder regions could have used the Roman invention, but it wasn’t until about 600 AD that the Germans established window-manufacturing plants along the Rhine. The word window derives from two Old Norse words, vindr (wind) and... more

For this how-to we create a sanding block to match a molding profile by using a quart milk container to form the rough shape of the sanding block. Before you begin, make sure that the area of the molding you are duplicating is free of debris and paint chips. If you do not clean the debris and chips they will transfer to the molding profile. Tools & Materials: Fix-It-All patching compound one-pound box, quart-size milk container, masking tape, putty knife. Skill Level One hammer: Novice Five... more

In 2003, the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 515, which eliminated the disclaimer option allowed in real estate transactions, instead requiring sellers of residential real estate to disclose certain issues of which they were aware to potential buyers. Prior to the passage of SB 515, sellers could simply sell a house “as-is,” disclaiming any knowledge about the structure or other problems, thus leaving a buyer... more

Small, unique, family-owned, intimate, and wildly busy best describe Portland’s Truax Builder’s Supply. Founded in 1946 as a wood window manufacturing and sales establishment, Truax remains a family-owned window and door business still in its original location on 109th and SE Division Street. Small in that it resides in two modest buildings with only 17 employees, but not small in scope when it comes to windows and... more

When you can’t find a solution to a hardware or a home improvement project, Winks Hardware is often the place to turn for answers. With a staff of former hardware storeowners, industry journeymen and women, and national hardware representatives, Winks Hardware employees have a wealth of product knowledge and project application experience. And to facilitate a solution-driven experience, customers receive one-on-one ... more