D.I.Y. CATEGORIES

McLendons.com, as a division of McLendon Hardware, Inc., recognizes that some do-it-yourself projects are more complex and difficult than others and may require greater knowledge and more experience than the reader of this material possesses.

With this is in mind, all information presented is intended to serve as a first step to assist with a project. We do not and will not take any responsibility for the particular results of the above referenced project, nor will we assume any liability for personal injury or damage that may result from the information presented.

We strongly suggest that professional help be consulted if the above project is beyond the comfort or experience level of the reader. As with any project, please also make sure all local building codes are followed and permits are obtained.

Assembling PVC Plumbing

Easier and cheaper to use than copper, PVC is a common plumbing material that is a breeze to assemble.

Biolet Waterless Toilets

The Biolet composting toilets bring the comfort and convenience of a convention bathroom to the most remote and inconvenient locations on earth.

Build a Copper Trellis

The copper trellis is the perfect project. It combines muscle flexing skills like bending pipe and soldering with the style and beauty so desired in a well planned garden. Best of all, the finished product looks like something that could, potentially, have taken a week of labor when, in reality, it could take as little as an afternoon.

Caulking Basics

Caulk is one of the most versatile and useful materials in home improvement projects. It finds its way into numerous painting, plumbing and green projects, and in very important ways. Considering its versatility, it is worth taking some time to learn where and how to properly apply the material.

Cleaning Dryer Vents

While everyone knows to clean lint out of a dryer's lint trap, not everyone is aware that lint also builds up in the exhaust ducts. Not only does this lint pose a safety hazard, it reduces the overall efficiency of the dryer and can significantly increase energy bills.

Cutting & Shaping Ceramic Tiles

As time consuming as tiling a perfectly square and flat surface can be, the job of retiling a space is often complicated by the fact that the floor is rarely the perfect size and almost never free of obstruction. This makes tile cutting a vital skill for anyone attempting to put down a new tile surface.

Draining A Hot Water Heater

Hot water heaters are built to last, but they can be made to last longer with a little simple maintenance. The main part of that maintenance is draining the tank completely to remove sediment from the system. The procedure described here, however, can be used any time the tank needs drained.

Fix a Running Toilet

A persistently running toilet can be a major waste of water, driving up home water bills, putting added strain of septic systems and harming the environment. While jiggling the handle can be a temporary fix, it is better to address the root of the problem rather than the symptom.

High Efficiency Toilets

High efficiency toilets, or HETs, are the new standard for toilet water conservation.

Installing a Toilet

Installing a toilet is a relatively simple procedure that most people are capable of. Before you call a plumber, you may want to consider taking this project on yourself. Also, consider installing a High Efficiency Toilet to save money and water.

Installing Drain Tile

Proper rainwater drainage is important to the integrity of a home's foundation or basement. Excessive rainwater deposited in close proximity to the house can lead to damp or wet basements and, over time, weaken the structure. The best fix is drain tile, which is easily and cheaply installed.

Is your toilet leaking?

It's easy to find out with a simple `dye' test

Maintaining a Septic Tank

In the absence of a sewer system or an outhouse, a septic tank is the best option for household waste disposal. They require regular maintenance however, or else the system can fail and require a costly replacement.

Re-caulking a Bathtub

Bathrooms are a warm wet place, which is a perfect environment for mildew to flourish in. Whether you are concerned about the health hazards mildew poses or just the unsightly discolorations on the caulk, re-caulking your tub is a simple project that will improve the appearance and health of your bathroom.

Removing a Bathtub

Since most people did not install the bathtub in their home, it is understandable they that may have no idea about how to remove one if the need arises. Removing a tub, however, requires only basic tools and skills.

Repairing a Leaky Faucet

Repairing a leaky faucet is the gold standard of home repair. It is easy, cheap and requires tools that most people already own.

Replacing a P-Trap

Whether you dropped your wedding ring down the drain or simply have noticed that your sink isn't draining like it should, the first place to look for a solution is the P-trap.

Soldering Copper Plumbing

It is sometimes necessary to install new sections or remove old sections of household copper plumbing. This means soldering, which is the simplest form of welding, and requires only a little know how and a moderate amount of heat.

Unclogging a Toilet

It happens to everyone, but even more so to parents of small children. Luckily it is a simple fix, no matter what causes the blockage.