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How to Wire a 4 Way Switch
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 317 seconds

http://www.AsktheBui lder.com host Tim Carter demonstrates how to wire a 4 way switch and where to place a 4 way switch in a circuit.

Related: askthebuilder, carter, diy, electrical, home, house, howto, light, lighting, switch, tim, way

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Latest comments made on this video:

I would call him ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Jan 09, 19:09:57
I would call him back. Maybe ask what's NOT acceptable.

Box and switch are ...
By: snipster4. on 07 Jan 09, 16:49:46
Box and switch are required to be grounded. But he didn't say "how" to do this. What would be the best technique to accomplish this?

What does your ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Jan 09, 01:30:25
What does your local code officer say?

Nice Video!! Quick ...
By: snipster4. on 06 Jan 09, 20:05:13
Nice Video!! Quick question. If you have a metal box with grounding screws do you bend the "tail" of the copper wire around the box screw and the green switch screw or just use one or the other and does it matter?

Tim explains this ...
By: TobAndeland. on 05 Jan 09, 17:18:45
Tim explains this all very simple and good. Its easy for those who dont have much experince, to understand. This helps me to understand how the american type of wires looks like, and much more.

i agree he the ...
By: zxanderxxx. on 04 Jan 09, 05:33:11
i agree he the builder was just showing how to wire it correctly it makes it easier to explain and understand. if everyone thinks there better than do a video.

youre right as far ...
By: zxanderxxx. on 04 Jan 09, 05:26:15
youre right as far as i saw you clearly showed the wires stapled 6 inches or less from the box and thats code btw im just starting in the electrical trade and youre videos gave a better understanding of things like why the whites or neutrals are always wirenutted.

thank's for ...
By: jelajemi. on 26 Dec 08, 01:03:54
thank's for up-loading this video I bougth some books where it is was not clearly shown how to wire a 4 way switch thanks alot

You're welcome. I ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 20 Dec 08, 19:42:45
You're welcome. I know there are many who appreciate the videos, but the haters seem to shout louder. :->

Thank you for the ...
By: jjeyan. on 18 Dec 08, 21:19:52
Thank you for the video, you made it very easy, understandable and above all interesting. I did some 3 way switches successfully after watching your video, and now I am going to try the 4 way switch soon. I see so many posts that discourage people from posting good videos like yours. Trust me there are still people like me who appreciate what you are doing and is thankful for it. Keep up the good work.

4 way switch = ...
By: fivealivevidz. on 23 Nov 08, 23:42:08
4 way switch = Intermediate Switch (UK) 3 way switch = 2 way switch (UK)

Thanks for your ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 10 Nov 08, 17:19:18
Thanks for your kind words. As for the gritchers, that's what I call them, I feel the same way, but would have said it using different words. :->

Thanks Tim, your ...
By: tikolyco. on 10 Nov 08, 16:42:43
Thanks Tim, your video tutorials are a great way to learn, Thanks for putting them up for free. and to everyone else out there who likes to bitch and moan... if you don't like it or think you can do it better, then don't watch it or go make your own god damn video... its all free so you have no right to bitch about anything.

IF it makes anyone ...
By: tikolyco. on 10 Nov 08, 16:39:36
IF it makes anyone feel better, I staple them 12'' or closer and I always pass inspection... unless its over 12'' then it wont pass, but i doable check everything.

NEC states that ...
By: WildstarGoethe. on 04 Nov 08, 03:56:15
NEC states that romex is to be secured 12 inches from the box. In practice, however, it is best to secure the cable less than 12 inches...Remember visuals are important...make your work very clean. I try to staple about 6 inches from the box, just so the inspector doesn't have to second guess. If you're stapling distance is borderline on that 12 inches, the inspector will be more inclined to henpeck the rest of your work. Take pride in your craft and it will show. Inspector's notice this stuff.

I'm really confused ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 02 Nov 08, 10:55:52
I'm really confused. In the video I staple the cables in accordance with the code. I was very careful to do everything to current code standards.

I work for an ...
By: ryanbreeze. on 02 Nov 08, 01:50:20
I work for an electrical supply store and that's just what the guys have said..it's just you said "that'll pass inspection and i didn't want anyone dumb enough to take it to heart to get in trouble. again thanks for all the vids

The code used to be ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 31 Oct 08, 10:42:31
The code used to be 6 inches or less if I'm not mistaken. What does your NEC book tell you? You do have a copy of that, don't you? If not, you should if you're doing electric work on a routine basis.

i enjoy all your ...
By: ryanbreeze. on 31 Oct 08, 02:09:45
i enjoy all your videos i just thought the wires have to be stapled 12 inches above the box to pass inspection? not a big deal thanks for all the help you've given out

Thanks! Yes, there ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 29 Oct 08, 23:38:30
Thanks! Yes, there are so many haters and gritches out there. Sigh! And to think this information is here at no cost. Can you imagine what they would say if they had paid? Yeeeouuuuch!

reading the ...
By: jwboll. on 29 Oct 08, 23:27:36
reading the comments, seems like everyone needs to bitch about something! Thanks for the Video. It probably saved me hours, (I'll never know, Installed in minutes!)

Now this is the way ...
By: rhblakeman. on 26 Oct 08, 22:54:10
Now this is the way to explain it, took me eons to actually figure out that it was a special switch between a set of 3 ways. As far as 120v killing someone, it's current and the path it takes. Stand in water and grab a live line - current passes from your arm to your feet and your heart is in between. Sit in a tub and toss in a radio - the water you are in conducts to your body and grounds to the plumbing and passes thru your heart. Doesnt take much voltage (pressure) but rather current (flow)

You are correct, ...
By: wartexmaul. on 12 Oct 08, 04:15:00
You are correct, however you should know that neutral is grounded at the stepdown transformer and every x miles afterwards.

Hi Tim! Great stuff ...
By: PaulRyanJr. on 06 Oct 08, 05:30:46
Hi Tim! Great stuff this. Quick question. If you want a dimmer switch for incandescent lights instead of one of the three switches you show, does it have to take the place of the 4-way switch, or is it okay to use an easier to find 3-way dimmer and replace one of the regular 3-way switches. And have it all work of course! Howdy from Denver.

These videos of ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 04 Oct 08, 17:22:55
These videos of mine show basic concepts, not code issues. As I said before, you can and should do that with your own videos. I stated the warning in the beginning of the video. Watch it again.

3 Way Switch
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 388 seconds

Installing a 3 way switch can be simple with this advice from Tim Carter of AsktheBuilder.com. He'll walk you through wiring 3 way switches, showing you which wires go where so you'll have no trouble with your 3 way switch wiring.

Related: ask, builder, carter, home, house, how, switch, switches, three, tim, to, way, wire, wiring

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Latest comments made on this video:

from this i learned ...
By: seny3000. on 02 Jan 09, 16:05:54
from this i learned knowledge is power. i called him again to do the 4 way. this time he knew to watch what he says to me. because i got knowledge.

wow people who are ...
By: seny3000. on 02 Jan 09, 16:05:30
wow people who are posting stupid comments should stop.if some one is doing good stop steping on them. he realy showed that home wiring is not rocket science. even before i decided to do a 3 way for the basement i called a electrican and he made a big deal besides the money. about the time he has to spend fishing the 3/14 up the drywall. for all you electrican please lay low.

Thanks, but *why* ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 31 Dec 08, 19:42:25
Thanks, but *why* are you telling *me* to do this???? Unless I'm mistaken, you have a YouTube channel and obviously some electrical knowledge. So how about you spend some of *your* spare time and tape those videos? :->

Tim, you should ...
By: tricknsmack. on 31 Dec 08, 19:12:25
Tim, you should explain how to wire them when the power, switch leg, and travlers all come into one box, or when the power comes into the light. The cases where you need to send power to another box before terminating (and when to use the white wire as a hot).

tim, im not an ...
By: sweetyvash. on 30 Dec 08, 06:52:19
tim, im not an electrician really, im a phone technician by trade so i cant answer your question regarding the ground wire, or maybe i just overlooked it or something, anyway happy new year to you n ur family tim.. : )

I have no clue as ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 28 Dec 08, 19:00:18
I have no clue as to why the wire is missing. Is it even required there?

hi tim, im from the ...
By: sweetyvash. on 28 Dec 08, 18:30:10
hi tim, im from the philippines just wondering how come when i do some house hold electrical wirings their are no ground wire only the red and black wire, by the way we use 220v of electricity here...use video is very informative by the way i learned at lot indeed

it needs wirenut ...
By: alfrediux1980. on 02 Dec 08, 00:13:26
it needs wirenut the ground or just the neutral?

Cool video Tim ...
By: Blackseed1978. on 28 Nov 08, 00:42:13
Cool video Tim thanks for the post i'm in school now studying to become a electrical technician and this information was informative i just learned how to do a two way switch and now when i go to class and learn the three way switch i will be ready and have the knowledge already so thank i appreciate it

im doin this at ...
By: lgr1991. on 25 Nov 08, 23:18:10
im doin this at college and thanks for clearin tht up, i was confused with two switches for ages!!!

im from ireland and ...
By: nealo7. on 25 Nov 08, 07:05:36
im from ireland and its called 2 way switching

Hello im from ...
By: Goodfellas3000. on 21 Nov 08, 06:59:35
Hello im from united kingdom i understood your two way swith perfectly thanx.. the only problem is the wiring in uk is slightly diffrent we have the main running into the light as a loop coming from the other light and from that light we are running a swith wire to the 1st switch and from the 1st swith we run a 3 core and earth to the other the second switch to make it 2 way!

I'm taking basic ...
By: dantheone. on 21 Nov 08, 03:37:57
I'm taking basic electrical class at the moment and this video helped me a lot with this subject. Thanks for the video. :)

Did you not turn ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 16 Nov 08, 23:37:15
Did you not turn off the circuit breaker???? You shorted the circuit. Fix that with a new fuse or reset the breaker. You better watch my videos again and pay attention to the safety warnings.

Im14 and i was ...
By: White2424. on 16 Nov 08, 23:25:34
Im14 and i was takingout one ofmy light switches( w/o turingoffelectricity) When i was taking the switch out a HUGE purple spark blew. Now i cant get the 2 switches thatrun the same to turn on my dining room light! Please help!

yeah leave this to ...
By: britski87. on 13 Nov 08, 13:11:06
yeah leave this to the "experts" they could easily charge you 250.00 to do this hookup that a moron can do with his eyes closed

Congrats! You're ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 10 Nov 08, 17:17:36
Congrats! You're most welcome.

Hello Tim. I ...
By: Smikos01. on 10 Nov 08, 16:39:00
Hello Tim. I would like to thank you very much for providing your valuable knowledge to You Tube Users! Installing a 3 way switch under your direction was extremely easy. I watched your video once and installed the 3 way switch without a problem. Thanks Again!

did you wire nut ...
By: meantraitors. on 04 Nov 08, 08:11:26
did you wire nut the grounds???

Yeah haha I was ...
By: Color1377. on 02 Nov 08, 19:10:59
Yeah haha I was just joking in my earlier comment, no offense meant :)

Oh my Gosh! Phil ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 02 Nov 08, 10:53:41
Oh my Gosh! Phil used iMovie royalty-free music as well. I since have changed over to my own sound bed I paid to have composed.

SXEPHIL MUSIC WTF
By: Color1377. on 02 Nov 08, 01:33:53
SXEPHIL MUSIC WTF

Looking at this ...
By: CarmenT41. on 31 Oct 08, 19:42:41
Looking at this video it's become apparent that a twit wired my hallway. One box had two wire bundles coming into it, but had a black and white wirenutted together, and a white, black and a red wired to the switch. The other box only has one wire bundle coming into it, with the white, red and black all wired to the switch. I was replacing all switches and outlets in my 30yr old home, wondered why the hallway wasn't working properly. Still can't get both switches to operate the lights. Sigh.

The 3 Way Switch ...
By: smfb8. on 28 Oct 08, 02:38:02
The 3 Way Switch video had me wiring up my flood lights in no time. Thanks for the help.

You're most welcome ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 25 Oct 08, 21:34:23
You're most welcome. Be sure to go to my website to read the columns about the same topic.

Log Splitters
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 284 seconds

http://www.AsktheBui lder.com host Tim Carter walks you through the pros and cons of three different log splitting methods: a manual log splitter, a gas powered hydraulic log splitter and a wood splitting maul.

Related: askthebuilder, building, carter, diy, home, house, howto, hydraulic, log, outdoor, remodeling, splitter, splitting, tim, wood

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Latest comments made on this video:

Nice videos, and I ...
By: GTAassistant. on 14 Dec 08, 05:52:19
Nice videos, and I can tell that you take a lot of your time and effort to meke them. My favorite part is that little high definition button. Keep up the good work, and I am looking forward to watch some of your new videos!

I agree, the maul ...
By: adramatictheme. on 13 Dec 08, 04:10:07
I agree, the maul is the way to go.

good video! nice ...
By: 87even. on 30 Nov 08, 06:51:04
good video! nice editing

i am 12 years old ...
By: Skipper72Productions. on 16 Nov 08, 22:19:34
i am 12 years old and i got a 30 ton hydrolic wood splitter lol

Try typing when ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 10 Nov 08, 11:51:32
Try typing when you're not so tired. I'd love to see how a chocolate malt can split an oak log. :->

i love using the ...
By: BobertXXL. on 10 Nov 08, 03:30:10
i love using the malt but im 14 so im still young

I like your videos. ...
By: darknightten. on 05 Nov 08, 02:22:31
I like your videos. These are very helpful tips. I'm only 12 years old but this is very interesting. Good job.

You miss the point. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 04 Nov 08, 22:58:54
You miss the point. You were commenting on the Manual Log Splitter video of mine. When people read your comments there, they'll understand....

I know you wont ...
By: drail80s. on 04 Nov 08, 21:31:56
I know you wont post this comment either but you shouldnt tell people about using a splitting maul. I have split more wood that the small so called ten ton splitter wouldnt be able to touch. I have lived in Northern MN my entire life and have dealt with wood heating for many years. I used to sell firewood also and we had a splitter that my dad and I built with a thirty ton push. I still use an 8# splitting maul and have split many seasons of cord wood with this tool. Way more than you will

ahh the the ...
By: Durken316. on 14 Oct 08, 21:11:57
ahh the the multiple uses of hydrualic technology

I think another ...
By: jefferyb304. on 11 Oct 08, 04:39:14
I think another notable con to the last log splitter is the amount of storage space needed.

My former neighbour ...
By: gschjetne. on 11 Oct 08, 00:24:35
My former neighbour has a really big splitter that connects to his tractor. He'd simply drive out into the forest, lower his 4-point hitch and start splitting wood.

Good informative ...
By: Sharkie626. on 10 Oct 08, 16:01:11
Good informative Video Tim! Where I live, we probably won't be doing any log splitting but this is really good for people that do!

Once again, great ...
By: CameronTingley. on 10 Oct 08, 15:41:49
Once again, great video Tim

yet again another ...
By: bigjoe12345678910. on 10 Oct 08, 15:26:37
yet again another crackin vid from ask the builder

Gutter Guard Test Results
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 231 seconds

http://www.AsktheBui lder.com host Tim Carter reveals which gutter guard system worked best on his home during his gutter guard test.

Related: askthebuilder, building, carter, diy, guard, guards, gutter, gutters, home, house, howto, remodeling, test, tim

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Latest comments made on this video:

I appreciate your ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 27 Dec 08, 13:27:02
I appreciate your comment, but I have to disagree with you. I actually did the tests. The micro mesh of both the MasterShield and the Gutter Glove product simply will not allow debris into the gutters. Will you occasionally have to brush debris from the top of both these gutter covers? Quite possibly. But debris in the gutter ever? No way. How about you do your own test of the two, start with clean gutters, and tape a video. Show us what you discover.

Sorry, but I get ...
By: corey4671. on 27 Dec 08, 03:32:49
Sorry, but I get people who call me out to clean gutters. It has been my experience in the last 10 years that there is NO gutter system, Mastershield included, that stops debris. Now I see people all the time that go to Lowe's or Home Depot and get the cheapo little screens for the gutters and honestly, those are a complete waste of time and money. They are going to let debris in and it only makes it MORE difficult to clean the debris out.

Are you telling me ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 Oct 08, 22:45:45
Are you telling me you called the MasterShield people and they told you it's illegal to ship product there because they don't have a Canadian patent? If that's the case, man I'll be doing prison time up there as I have sold my products to Canadians for years and have no patents at all.

Hi Tim: ...
By: Newbeak. on 12 Oct 08, 16:55:29
Hi Tim: Mastershield can't install their product in Canada where I live,as they are still in the process of getting their Canadian patent. Gutterglove,however,has offered to sell to me for self installation. If you were in my shoes,would it be advisable to buy and install Gutterglove now,or want till Mastershield comes to Canada? Thanks

If it's the ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Oct 08, 00:28:51
If it's the micromesh one where the mesh is in a vinyl structure the answer is No. I had all sorts of evidence that the vinyl and the mesh didn't play well together. Every gutter guard can accelerate the formation of ice. If you don't want leaks, then go read every column at my website about Ice Dams.

Tim, Have you ever ...
By: MuveeDirector. on 10 Oct 08, 22:34:37
Tim, Have you ever tested the Leaffilter system? It doesn't go under the roof shigles however it still pitches away from the house within the gutter and has the same stainless micro-mesh. I have talked to many people that have had under roof shingle type gutter covers installed, and many of them said they have problems in winter with water/ice building up breaking roof shingles and water penetration into the house.

I think Tim does a ...
By: RunLessWire. on 07 Oct 08, 23:05:34
I think Tim does a fine job, his test may not be confined to laboratory perfection but you can see by the video that there was a bunch of crap in the test subject. If you install something to keep you from cleaning the gutters and they say just get up there and shake it out, I would bet it's easier just to clean the gutters. Very specific testing methods are sometimes second to real world testing. I'd love to have Tim test my products, good or bad.

I think I can speak ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Sep 08, 22:35:31
I think I can speak to that. I talked with the owner of Gutter Glove after I taped the video. At that time, I am quite sure, it was in their installation instructions to install it like they did at my house. Once he discovered how the Mastershield was installed, he said he would come back and reinstall his product so it was sloped to match my roof pitch. So my guess is that GG is playing catchup baseball and altering their methods to match what Masteshield had already been doing.

Hey Tim, Thanks ...
By: manatthetop1. on 14 Sep 08, 22:16:12
Hey Tim, Thanks for the great work. Having had both Mastershield and GutterGlove out and give me estimates, I was more impressed by GutterGlove in terms of the quality of the product and the sales pressure/pitch. I was just curious as to the GutterGlove install. I was confused as to why they installed the product on your house, flat and not with the pitch of the roof? When I met with the GutterGlove rep he told me that they would install it in my house with the slope of the roof pitch.

If you feel there ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 13 Sep 08, 17:10:02
If you feel there is a need for another round of testing, then go for it. You have a YouTube channel, so do the test. The products were installed correctly by the manufacturers, not me. Since you are a research expert, please start doing your research and post in on your channel. We can't wait to comment on *your* videos. My test was objective and approved by the manufacturers of the products. If you have a beef, call them. Tell them how to conduct the test.

I can tell you that ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 13 Sep 08, 17:01:31
I can tell you that in my experience in all the years of my testing that most, if not all, cause a more rapid buildup of snow, ice and subsequently ice dams. No matter if you have gutter guards or not, you should absolutely have ice-dam membranes at the roof eaves to prevent the leaks that will happen. Remember, Mother Nature bats last.

You have a YouTube ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 13 Sep 08, 16:52:44
You have a YouTube channel, although you are completely invisible there. Take all of this energy you have, get a camera, get the gutter guards, test them and show us your videos. You might also call the manufacturers of the products to verify their acceptance of my test. Finally, how about telling us the color and breed of the dog you have in this fight? Your passionate comments mean that you have a vested interest in this topic.

I wonder how this ...
By: michalo2. on 13 Sep 08, 16:44:19
I wonder how this choice gutter guard behaves with freezing snow and ice?

This argument does ...
By: pooge1954. on 13 Sep 08, 15:00:40
This argument does absolutely nothing to negate the possibility of various wind conditions affecting the different results, irrespective of manufacturer approval. In fact, the Gutter Guard was very clean over most of its length. It was only in a few spots that it had junk on it. It did what Gutter Guard said it would do: keep junk out of the gutter and keep them running. You're simply going to get a different top cleaning effect depending on the wind conditions.

Ah! Great point, ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 13 Sep 08, 09:38:50
Ah! Great point, but no cigar. Once again, if you read all the comments, you will discover the manufacturers approved the location of the install and the conditions. Furthermore, if you did put on one brand in one spot and then year after year you put a different brand on the same spot you would have a different set of variables. Perhaps not as much blossom production, not as many storms, not as much wind, etc. There is NO perfect test. If you feel there is, write the test specifications.

Tim: You say that ...
By: pooge1954. on 13 Sep 08, 03:21:41
Tim: You say that the two mesh guards are on opposite sides of the roof. This is not a fair comparison because the prevailing winds are going to hit one side of the roof differently than the other side. Perhaps the prevailing winds help clear one side better than the other.

I am not having any ...
By: houserepairpro. on 12 Sep 08, 12:54:27
I am not having any trouble with the concepts you lay out. They actually help make my case for the need of a new round of testing with the same conditions and variables for all the products you test. Is it not your responsibility as the trusted expert to assure the installation of the product is perfect? For the record, I am an expert in research methods and yours are deeply flawed. Your cliche of actions speaking volumes is apt. What does your unwillingness to run an objective test say Tim?

From my comment ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 Sep 08, 11:13:53
From my comment just above or below this one, you can see that Gutter Glove was the other micro-mesh product tested. Both slide under the shingles. Both appear to be easy to install. I watch both installations. The video says it all. Both kept debris out of the gutter, but only one was debris free. I don't know what else to tell you. Why not buy one piece from each company and see what you think?

Tim: Was ...
By: edbreyer. on 12 Sep 08, 05:37:46
Tim: Was GutterGlove the one that didn't do as well as Mastershield because it doesn't carry on roof slope? Does that mean GutterGlove doesn't slide under the edge of the shingles like Mastershield? I've heard Mastershield isn't for us handy DIYers - meaning it is more expensive than self-installed GutterGlove. If so, I might have trouble justifying the pro-installed cost of MasterShield over Gutterglove - especially if their performance is at least somewhat comparable. Your thoughts?

i am not familiar ...
By: mortson978. on 12 Sep 08, 02:27:32
i am not familiar with home security, as i live out here in the sticks. Electric fence? Attack dogs?, or will you make me read the da vinci code?

Did you not read my ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Sep 08, 20:35:16
Did you not read my other reply? Gutter Glove installed their product. They *knew* I was testing another one on the other side under the same tree. Mastershield came and approved their side. Why are you having trouble with this concept? Why won't you do the test yourself as you apparently are a testing expert? That is most certainly how you are positioning yourself to the world with your comments. Remember, actions speak louder than words. We all want to see the action videos of your test.

Proper installation ...
By: houserepairpro. on 11 Sep 08, 20:04:03
Proper installation is to blame for Mastershield winning? Why not put the other two sections in the same spot you put the giant bottle brush one? Testing the products myself would do nothing to help negate the completely subjective test you ran because it would not be under the same conditions in the same area. Plus, I am not the trusted home improvement professional. You are. Do the test again Tim and make sure the conditions are standardized. Thank you very much for the favor of your reply.

I completely ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Sep 08, 17:58:56
I completely disagree and have the proof I am right. How, you ask? I *didn't* do the installations of the gutter guards in the test! The manufacturers installed the products, except for the pipe-cleaner one. He said I could put it wherever I wanted and it would not fail. You have a YouTube account. Use it. Go get some of these products and show all of us how *you* feel the test should have been done. We all anxiously await your video results.

This test is not ...
By: houserepairpro. on 11 Sep 08, 17:41:16
This test is not objective at all. You test three different systems under different conditions including installation angle, location where we cannot see the tree cover, straight gutter lengths for some and angled configurations for others. Hardly objective. You also proclaim one an utter failure in one breath and then state that water still flows through to the gutter? By definition that is not a failure. This subjective "test" should be done again in a way that keeps the conditions equal.

No worries. I have ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Sep 08, 16:09:49
No worries. I have lost count of the ones I have tested. The one I decided to go with is a fantastic product. It will work on your house.

Bathroom Exhaust Fans
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 144 seconds

Bathroom exhaust fans don't have to be in the bathroom ceiling. You can have a bathroom fan that works like a central vacuum system, where the motor is hidden up in your attic so that it's whisper quiet. Tim Carter of http://www.AsktheBui lder.com walks you through the basics of those new bathroom exhaust fans.

Related: askthebuilder, bathroom, carter, exhaust, fan, fans, tim, vent

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Latest comments made on this video:

well tim i really ...
By: sweetyvash. on 28 Dec 08, 18:47:33
well tim i really love your video, i mean all of it im from the philippines n i usually do the household work if i think i can manage it, now with your informative show i think i can do most of my house hold problem without paying for some contractor

Perhaps a better ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 09 Dec 08, 11:52:08
Perhaps a better comment has never been made on this channel.....

I like the privacy ...
By: sadgeneration. on 09 Dec 08, 04:37:08
I like the privacy that noisy exhaust fans offer; I don't want anyone to hear me whispering on the toilet.

Ooooops! My mistake.
By: AsktheBuilder. on 27 Nov 08, 22:56:34
Ooooops! My mistake.

lol...uh, I was ...
By: froggy7474. on 27 Nov 08, 21:58:17
lol...uh, I was complimenting you on the answer. Signed....Me, a fantech employee :|

Uh, try again. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 27 Nov 08, 21:55:27
Uh, try again. Never been employed by them and have no intentions of working for anyone.

lol...good answer. ...
By: froggy7474. on 27 Nov 08, 20:48:04
lol...good answer. Fantech Employee

Nope, but years ago ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 16 Nov 08, 11:37:29
Nope, but years ago I will admit to drinking way too much cherry pepsi. I'm on the wagon now staying away from as much high-fructose corn syrup as possible.

this dude looks ...
By: ttime27514. on 16 Nov 08, 06:35:58
this dude looks like he is on coke

Thanks for the ...
By: plotinus1. on 18 Oct 08, 07:20:44
Thanks for the video; I wish that tenants had the power to force lazy/cheap landlords to install the modern, energy efficient, quiet fans. I have spent 4 frustrating years living with a super noisy fan and moldy bathroom and it is doubtful that my slumlord would care enough to pay for the installment.

Just make sure the ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Sep 08, 12:07:30
Just make sure the inspector likes this setup

Pay an electrician ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Sep 08, 12:05:27
Pay an electrician $10 to draw it out for you.

i plan on ...
By: nickkalisz. on 22 Sep 08, 08:48:03
i plan on installing a fan soon and the easiest way is to get power to the new fan through the light would i just cut the black and white wires and splice the to fan? so there would be 3 black wires in the marret 1 from switch,1 to light and 1 to fan and vice versa with white wires?

i've been trying to ...
By: nickkalisz. on 22 Sep 08, 08:29:12
i've been trying to find a wiring diagram for a fan that i may be installing soon.i'm basically getting power off a existing light would i just cut the black and white wires(with power off obviosly) to light from switch and splice the matching wires to the fan? so i would have black wire from switch to marret and the two other black wires from marett going to fan and light and same with white wires?

Sir! You do go on.
By: Downfacingdog. on 02 Sep 08, 01:02:13
Sir! You do go on.

Read the ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 02 Jul 08, 17:00:17
Read the specifications. Match the fan to the room's cubic-feet size. Contact the manufacturer and always get from them you are buying the right thing.

Do you think I ...
By: Blllunttman1. on 02 Jul 08, 16:37:41
Do you think I should still be ok with a 100CFM fantech unit? Or should I go higher since I will be running 2 grills? Thanks.

Run two grills.
By: AsktheBuilder. on 02 Jul 08, 16:27:46
Run two grills.

Hey Tim, I have ...
By: Blllunttman1. on 02 Jul 08, 16:18:13
Hey Tim, I have a 7ft X 7ft bathroom and was looking at the 100 CFM Fantech model. I currently have a bathroom light/fan combo at the very center of the bathroom. I was wondering if it would be better to replace this with a fantech Grille/light combo and then install a grille above the shower. Then I would connect them to a Y-Pipe from fantech. In your opinion do you think it would have enough coverage with just 1 grille at the center of the bathroom or should I run 2 grilles? Thanks.

Always research * ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 18 May 08, 19:34:33
Always research *before* you start any project. You may discover that my website can save you time and money. The bright side is that you should not waste any more time again.

Grr, wish I saw ...
By: lamedefaultname. on 18 May 08, 18:27:47
Grr, wish I saw this before I spent part of the weekend installing a traditional style bathfan... Very cool product! Thanks for the video.

what a cool idea we ...
By: kym1931. on 15 May 08, 13:16:31
what a cool idea we havent got any thing like that in australia i got to put up with a noisy and a down draught fan lol

Go out on the web ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 19 Apr 08, 01:29:54
Go out on the web and find photos of what happens when you do what you propose. Some of the water vapor is drawn into the attic space and condenses on the underside of the roof. I discuss in my past columns about Bath Exhaust Fans how to minimize condensation.

I heard its better ...
By: repo1911. on 18 Apr 08, 23:25:57
I heard its better to vent to a soffit, because venting vertically to the roof can cause condensation to drip back down into the bathroom?

You need to go to ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 01 Apr 08, 02:07:50
You need to go to my website and read all of my past columns on Bath Exhaust Fans. There are many.

Roof Flashing for Bathroom Fans
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 299 seconds

A roof flashing for bathroom fans can be easily installed with these tips from AsktheBuilder.com host Tim Carter. He'll walk you through the steps of locating the hole, cutting through your roof, positioning the roof flashing, trimming shingles and nailing it down. You'll be able to do your own roof flashing installation for bathroom fans without a problem with the information in this video.

Related: ask, bathroom, builder, carter, fans, flashing, for, home, house, how, roof, tim, to

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Latest comments made on this video:

Thanks. You are a ...
By: Stallion6365. on 17 Dec 08, 23:50:18
Thanks. You are a gentleman and a scholar!

You can go out a ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 17 Dec 08, 11:22:46
You can go out a side wall. That's a valid option indeed!

Thanks. Is there ...
By: Stallion6365. on 17 Dec 08, 05:00:14
Thanks. Is there any compelling reason not to make hole in the siding in the attic and use some sort of vent similar to a dryer vent? The area isn't really visible to anybody. And I haven't had much luck finding good roofers in the past, although perhaps this is a simple job for them. The siding is stucco, so I'm not real excited about cutting that, but I suspect I could do it just fine. Thanks, again.

It's the same ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 16 Dec 08, 23:22:55
It's the same methodology. But because of the larger overlap of the ceramic tiles, you *may* need an oversized flashing. You could save yourself huge misery by hiring this out to a real roofing pro. A mistake on this roof can cost you dearly.

Thanks for the ...
By: Stallion6365. on 16 Dec 08, 23:02:34
Thanks for the video. Unfortunately, I have a flat ceramic tile roof with thick ceramic tiles that seem to simply rest on top of each other. Do I use the same type of vent and flashing? If so, is this something that I can still do as a DIY type? Can I just cut through it with a rotozip? Like the other guy said, cutting the hole in my roof will require me to muster up a bit of courage, but I could get over that if weren't for the tiles.

Sorry, I'd have to ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Nov 08, 17:13:39
Sorry, I'd have to be there to see it to give you a bullet-proof response.

but is it easy ...
By: vamarianne. on 22 Nov 08, 16:55:50
but is it easy enough to take cap off and then replace? we don't have to cut a new hole as there is already one there. thanks much. p.s. we are doing this today, so hope to see a response! :)

Same technique. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Nov 08, 14:58:31
Same technique. Make the slit in the metal roof half way up the flashing. The slit in the roof is exactly the same width as the flashing.

Informative. Thanks ...
By: vamarianne. on 21 Nov 08, 22:26:53
Informative. Thanks! Any experience w. metal roofs? We need to replace a duct vent that vents straight up from 1st floor dryer up through 3rd floor utility closet to metal (sloped) roof. Somewhere along the length, its become disconnected and does not vent properly. We'd like to use existing roof vent cap. Is it pretty straighfwd to remove vent so we can pull out old duct and slide in new one? Concerned about keeping metal roof integrity as it was just scraped and resealed this summer. thanx!

You sure are ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Oct 08, 11:04:45
You sure are confusing me. Your first comment states that I did the job wrong - and that you have a different method. Uploading a video to YouTube is easier than installing one asphalt shingle. Since you have a lifetime of roofing experience, you should share it. Are you going to take your knowledge to the grave with you? That's unacceptable in today's world. Surely you can take the time to do it if I done it. It's our obligation.

I agree with you, ...
By: eastcoastman. on 14 Oct 08, 01:58:12
I agree with you, the flashing is working properly and it is not leaking because the pitch of the roof lets the water go fast and the snow does not stand as on a low slope roof. i've done roofing half of my life and what i wrote is based on my experience, sometimes sealant might not be necessary but doing so give peace of mind. Instead of caulking, there a large variety of products, i use ice-guard around every pipe, chimney, flashings, i.e. Unfortunately i've never loaded videos or pictures.

Thanks for your ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Oct 08, 00:03:23
Thanks for your comment. This flashing doesn't leak. It's been in for several years through driving rain and deep snow. I went to your channel and there's nothing there. If you are an expert roofer, how about sharing your knowledge with videos? Show us your methods. The method for installing the flashing in slate or wood shakes is the same. If you disagree, then tape your own video showing us how you do it.

i'd like to see ...
By: eastcoastman. on 13 Oct 08, 23:38:10
i'd like to see this professional man installing those things either on slate roofs or cedar shakes, LoL. Another thing, in the video he missed some important details as using caulking on the top part of the flashing. In winter time, it might leak, guess why?, well, snow accumulate on the top part of the pipe, later ice damns start growing under shingles, the purpose of the caulking is to stop those damns. he used caulking on exposed nails only!!, no good.

Indeed they are. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Oct 08, 00:26:29
Indeed they are. Rock is not too bendable, unless it is heated to about 1,500 F and under maybe 50 atmospheres of pressure.

you are lucky you ...
By: remoman. on 10 Oct 08, 23:06:39
you are lucky you have such pliable shingles! I have slate shingles on my house, a real PITA to work with.

It's more than just ...
By: AfeBahrooshe. on 29 Aug 08, 15:59:03
It's more than just "my idea". It is taught in journeyman school, it's on their tests, and if you're a roofer by trade, you would never dare do a roof without gumming the valleys, chimneys, vents, and so on. Similar to vinyl siding - you would never do a job without papering it all first. Especially on lower slopes, water creeps under shingles and vents. A gum bead pushes it back out. That's all I can say.

There are hundreds ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 29 Aug 08, 00:47:12
There are hundreds of thousands of roofs out there that have all of those things and *no* gum that are leak-free. I am not saying your idea is bad. I am trying to get you to have an open mind about the facts. If I have no gum and no leaks, then why must I do it? Don't answer that you think it is a good idea. Answer with some hard science.

I'm all for ...
By: AfeBahrooshe. on 28 Aug 08, 23:10:16
I'm all for agreeing there is more than one way to do a task. However, roofing gum is a must in areas vents, chimneys, valleys, etc. Skipping this step is not a smart thing to do. It's cheap and lazy.

How much time? More ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 27 Aug 08, 10:41:08
How much time? More than 25 or 30 years? I have many vent flashings like that installed on my roof, and they have been there since day one. No leaks. I suggest that you consider there is more than one right way to do something. Keep in mind that regular shingles in the field do not leak, and each tab is not sealed as you suggest.

Give it time, it ...
By: AfeBahrooshe. on 27 Aug 08, 05:32:49
Give it time, it will leak. Water will creep up under the flashing and in the house it goes - unless there's a bead of gum stopping it from doing so.

Gosh, I have bad ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 23 Aug 08, 00:09:18
Gosh, I have bad news for you. You are wrong. You are welcome to come here to view the vent and the ceiling below. In fact, there are no less than 10 similar flashings exactly like that on my roof. No blackjack and not a drop of a leak, even in the most fierce wind/rain storm.

There is a very ...
By: AfeBahrooshe. on 22 Aug 08, 22:41:59
There is a very significant step you missed Tim. Blackjack or "roofing gum" MUST be applied, every single time. If you miss this step, your vent WILL leak 100% guaranteed. You must apply a bead of "gum" underneat the vent, and on top where the upper shingles rest on it. Because of this vital step that was missed, I can't give this tutorial more than a 50% for usefulness. Sorry.

That's the way I do ...
By: rhblakeman. on 09 Aug 08, 02:01:05
That's the way I do it but the way Tim has it will work well.

I have to agree ...
By: rhblakeman. on 09 Aug 08, 01:59:53
I have to agree with Tim - those flashing cements are goo for about 2 yrs then Noah's flood comes. One thing you might mention Tim is to have the vent always above the fan and no drops in the hose or you get condensation that gets nasty, sometimes ices up. Can even become enough that it will get into the fan or ceiling. I usually use Blackjack under the flashing before laying the shingles back and a spot to replace the old tar strip so the shingles dont blow up if the shingles dont re-adhere.

Eat more Wheaties.
By: AsktheBuilder. on 08 Aug 08, 11:40:16
Eat more Wheaties.

Installing an Exterior Door
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 378 seconds

Exterior door installation is a job you can tackle with these tips from AsktheBuilder.com host Tim Carter. From flashing to putting in shims, Tim walks you through all the steps for installing an exterior door in your home.

Related: an, ask, builder, carter, door, doors, exterior, how, installation, installing, outer, tim, to

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Latest comments made on this video:

just put in a new ...
By: marathon300. on 13 Oct 08, 23:50:20
just put in a new door just like 12santo1 said. whooops! guess what? got leaks when it rained. do like the video says.

It is obvious to me ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 04 Sep 08, 11:06:37
It is obvious to me and any number of pros that you have perhaps never had to replace a door before. If you had done that to any exterior door that was exposed to splashing water or wind-driven rain, you would know why flashing is mandatory. If you want to see one of these doors, come to an existing house I just purchased. Caulk is not a permanent solution in this situation.

wow,i can install ...
By: 12santo1. on 04 Sep 08, 04:39:05
wow,i can install that door by myself...... this video is really for non-skilled people. why would you put the flashing tape? you know water gets everywhere... there is no need to install that tape. just use treated wood... as easy as that or, caulk the inside to prevent water from flowing inside the stucture.....

Treated lumber for ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 23 Jul 08, 13:20:22
Treated lumber for the rough opening and redwood or cedar for the trim.

Question: I ...
By: ralotomassi. on 22 Jul 08, 17:48:32
Question: I haven't started my project yet, but in assessing the scope of the task, it appears that my entire opening is concrete as it is to a basement door. Also, this entire opening is about 4 1/4 inches wider than the door frames that I have priced at the store. Would it be a good idea to "build in" the opening before I installed the new door using a 1 X ? What type of wood would I use? Thanks in advance.

You're the man! ...
By: lordtone1. on 01 May 08, 14:44:04
You're the man! That could not have been explained any easier. Thanks, and keep up the good work!

Hi Tim, I own my ...
By: vinny3888s. on 11 Jan 08, 23:08:55
Hi Tim, I own my own Handyman business and I've got to tell you , I am so glad to have your videos online, even though I know my stuff, you always point out one add extra thing I didn't know about. Thanks, Vinny

The job you are ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Jan 08, 16:29:56
The job you are trying to do is one I would never ask a rookie carpenter to do, much less a DIY'r! You are in over your head.

I'll look into one ...
By: mykallb. on 11 Jan 08, 16:02:32
I'll look into one of those doors, but there really isn't a problem with my door, it's the jambs which will have to be replaced anyway. Maybe I'm not understanding this, but will buging a pre-hung simplify the problem of replacing the jambs? Thanks MB

I doubt I will ever ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 10 Jan 08, 11:59:58
I doubt I will ever do that one. Way too focused.... Why not just invest in a new prehung fiberglass door unit from ThermaTru? I have had great success with them. You can have a new door installed in 90 minutes or less.

I'd sure like to a ...
By: mykallb. on 10 Jan 08, 04:18:35
I'd sure like to a video on how to install cellularized PCV Door Jambs and moulding. Mine has rotted out BIG time (worse than I thought) and I bought the kit from Home Cheapo but have hesitated because it's my front door and if something goes wrong, I won't have a front door ;). I'm really worried about routing the hinge inlays in the door etc. Most of these door hanging vids are for pre-hung doors-unfortunately. M.

Joe, Not at all! ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Nov 07, 12:21:15
Joe, Not at all! You want difficult? Let's see, I will mention a few tasks off the top of my head. How about framing a 14/12 pitch roof with a dutch hip? How about building a deck that is 30 feet off the ground. Now, those two are difficult..... :-)

this seems like the ...
By: JoeFox1014. on 07 Nov 07, 01:53:58
this seems like the most difficult thing in the world to do. ever.

The first thing to ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 31 Oct 07, 20:29:30
The first thing to do is check ALL screws on both flaps of each hinge. Tighten them. That often helps solve door-rubbing issues. If house settlement is the cause, the measures are more drastic like you propose.

I have some ...
By: E5Bobby. on 31 Oct 07, 20:06:45
I have some interior doors that are very old. The door can be lifted up a bit and when let down it seems to drag against the jamb on the upper corner on the doorknob side. Do I use a belt sander to take some wood off of the door? That'd be great to see in a video.

Nice video. Wow ...
By: Ryder69420. on 30 Oct 07, 01:12:12
Nice video. Wow that seems really easy. Noticed around 3:50 how easily that door swings opened. Doesn't even need help. ;)

Sure! Especially if ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 01 Oct 07, 11:04:02
Sure! Especially if the plumber is cross trained. You know the old saying about putting all of your eggs in one basket.

installing doors is ...
By: ZodiacKilah. on 02 Sep 07, 16:39:05
installing doors is a plumbers job right? becuase im going college this 10th sep and im doing a plumbing course and hoping i will be able to do those things ;)

Great point and ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 25 Aug 07, 11:32:05
Great point and thanks for suggesting it! I intend to do a series of videos on door installation. It is impossible to cover everything in two minutes. The series will dive into each specific common problems and how I have successfully solved each one. For example, a twisted rough opening, an out-of-level floor, door binds on door stop, door fails to latch, etc.

A good start to ...
By: roynash. on 25 Aug 07, 10:31:53
A good start to understanding the important steps. Most of us wouldn't have an opening that level and plumb, so how about one to show some problems/solutions.

Thanks for all the ...
By: bassaroo. on 21 Aug 07, 13:47:27
Thanks for all the helpful info!

Dear so1iant, I ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 24 Apr 07, 03:28:37
Dear so1iant, I have this video and another one that pretty much shows the important steps how to remove the door.

Hello Tim, Thanks ...
By: so1iant. on 24 Apr 07, 00:25:59
Hello Tim, Thanks for all the good tips! I have to say I am flustered not to find *any* tips/videos about install exterior door from scratch. Cutting it out and all. Maybe you have some old footage you could post?

Exterior Door Insulation
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 324 seconds

Exterior door insulation is essential to keep out the elements. Tim Carter of AsktheBuilder.com walks you through the steps to ensure that your exterior door is insulated properly. Your exterior door will be sealed tight if you follow Tim's insulation tips about fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation and flashing tape.

Related: ask, builder, carter, door, exterior, home, house, how, insulate, insulation, tim, to

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Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 212 seconds

Painting kitchen cabinets is an inexpensive way to make your kitchen cabinets look like new. Tim Carter from AsktheBuilder.com shares some tips for kitchen cabinet refinishing to save you frustration and give you professional results.

Related: ask, builder, cabinets, home, house, how, kitchen, paint, painting, to

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Latest comments made on this video:

Jason, Sorry about ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 05 Jan 09, 14:04:08
Jason, Sorry about that! But you know the old saying don't you? When Mama ain't happy, ain't Nobody happy. Either touch them up or get out the paint! Yikes!

Thanks Tim. Now ...
By: ChefTips. on 05 Jan 09, 02:13:18
Thanks Tim. Now Veronica is putting me to work! She says our honey stained cabinets are in need of some work. =]

it's messy to leave ...
By: fodderoni. on 17 Dec 08, 09:04:38
it's messy to leave the backs unpainted, every time you open them it reminds you it's a rank amateur job I'd paint the backs AND the inside...in fact I'd in fact spray paint everything with flat paint using an air compressor then semi-varnish for depth

You're most welcome.
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Dec 08, 16:39:00
You're most welcome.

Thanks, Tim. ...
By: delicateblu. on 07 Dec 08, 16:35:58
Thanks, Tim. Excellent tips!

dust mask?
By: person365. on 30 Oct 08, 23:14:03
dust mask?

Simple, read my ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 Sep 08, 23:42:51
Simple, read my past columns about staining wood at my website.

say for some crazy ...
By: checkurhead801. on 12 Sep 08, 21:17:47
say for some crazy reason you dont want purple cabinets, i just want to sand mine down and finish the natural wood. they have already been painted white, how cold i go about doing that the right way.

You need to get ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 21 Aug 08, 01:02:24
You need to get that grease off. There are good degreasers at the grocery store. I have used oxygen bleach with great success at degreasing. I loved it so much I did what the Orek Vacuum man did - I bought the company! go to oxygenbleach dot comma :->

Thanks for all the ...
By: xpinchx. on 21 Aug 08, 00:25:13
Thanks for all the tips. My cabinets are all very old and haven't been maintained properly. There's some sort of dirt/grease cover on all of the cabinets that is slightly sticky to the touch. I tried washing it off before with soap and water but it's too stuck on there. Will the deglosser take care of that or will I have to use some other product to help get rid of the sticky stuff?

A medium layer of ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 19 Aug 08, 13:00:01
A medium layer of deglosser. Many paints can be scratched off within hours or days of application. But once they have cured completing the chemical and mechanical bond, it is very hard to remove them. Go try doing it on a piece of painted woodwork around your home.

Great Video! I ...
By: ladybugarden. on 19 Aug 08, 12:35:36
Great Video! I tried doing a few practice boards before I will use these techniques on all my cabinets. But, I can still scratch off the primer coat. How much Deglosser should I apply (I have the same brand as you). Should it be a thick wet layer, or a thin layer? Thanks so much for your reply.

You use whatever ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 28 Jul 08, 22:06:50
You use whatever primer is called for on the label of the finish paint.

Do you need to use ...
By: delmarpainter. on 28 Jul 08, 16:23:10
Do you need to use oil base primer to prime cabinets?

HA YOURE TOO COOL! ...
By: zoopop22. on 14 Jul 08, 18:11:09
HA YOURE TOO COOL! THX !

High-gloss paint ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Jul 08, 17:45:31
High-gloss paint followed by high-gloss urethane.

I want to paint my ...
By: LoliLove7. on 07 Jul 08, 17:42:05
I want to paint my kitchen cabinets, but I want to get a very high gloss on them, what can I use?

No difference in ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 23 Jun 08, 13:06:54
No difference in the finish. Beware of old finishes that have lead. Do not sand them. Use a primer. Read all of my past primer columns at my website to discover why.

Hello Tim Thanks ...
By: R3FuG33. on 23 Jun 08, 12:41:34
Hello Tim Thanks for the video! A couple of questions, aside from saving time/dust does using liquid sandpaper end with a better finish? (The cabinets are very greasy at points) I will be using TSP to scrub the cabinets down. Also, the local home depot advised me that with oil based paint I will not require a primer, is this true?

wow thanks
By: bczco2007. on 30 Apr 08, 16:11:35
wow thanks

Thank you Tim. I'm ...
By: hammerofharpel. on 10 Feb 08, 16:13:03
Thank you Tim. I'm always grateful you keep up with correspondences and reply with great information!

Hmmmmmm..... I just ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 10 Feb 08, 13:02:56
Hmmmmmm..... I just watched the video again and must have missed where I said that. In a b-roll shot you can see a can of latex finish paint. In the columns about this topic on my website, I discuss why oil will allow you to get the kitchen back together faster. You may want to read my Painting Kitchen Cabinets columns.

Actually Tim, you ...
By: hammerofharpel. on 10 Feb 08, 04:16:36
Actually Tim, you said oil or latex and your daughter said oil only.

Me. Oil cures ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 09 Feb 08, 19:33:53
Me. Oil cures harder and faster.

I don't know Tim. ...
By: hammerofharpel. on 09 Feb 08, 18:53:00
I don't know Tim. On her video she says you use OIL only. You say either. I'm personally trying outdoor Porter paint (latex). I despise Oil paint. Which person should I believe?

Septic System Anatomy
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 164 seconds

http://www.AskTheBui lder.com host Tim Carter explains the anatomy of a septic system and walks you through each part of septic systems.

Related: askthebuilder, building, carter, diy, home, house, howto, outdoors, plumbing, remodeling, septic, system, systems, tim

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Latest comments made on this video:

Thank you so much i ...
By: goldice1. on 01 Jan 09, 17:42:24
Thank you so much i love this show i watch it every day thank you Rick Brew so much.

LOL! The grass is ...
By: grodenbarg. on 29 Dec 08, 05:40:38
LOL! The grass is always greener in the leech field. :P

Thanks. Correct. No ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Dec 08, 18:13:05
Thanks. Correct. No URLs. I urge *you* to make many septic videos and place them on your channel since you're an expert. People will discover them as you did this one.

I see your point ...
By: K1100LT. on 11 Dec 08, 16:56:12
I see your point about it being convenient. I am a septic system designer and consultant. There is a ton of misleading information regarding septic systems out there. While I may seem critical the unusual absorption field, I certainly appreciate the video and your effort to educate folks about these issues. I would leave my web site address but that probably isn't allowed here :-)

Thanks for your ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 11 Dec 08, 16:46:27
Thanks for your comment. It's unusual indeed, but on that lot it was the ONLY place the authorities would allow the leach field. This was a convenient taping location. These videos are free, and it doesn't make economic sense for me to invest days scouting locations. Does that make sense? If you were paying me $3 a download to watch, then you bet it makes sense for me to show you the most common installations. What's the old saying? Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. :->

That's bizarre to ...
By: K1100LT. on 11 Dec 08, 16:24:00
That's bizarre to up the absorption field under concrete! I would never do it. Especially in a bed configuration. You should have found a more typical installation to highlight in your video.

Thanks! I was ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 06 Dec 08, 17:56:09
Thanks! I was honing my skills and magic that day as we taped. Pretty cool indeed. Now, if I only had more energy by eating some rocking vegetable soup!

WOW! What a cool ...
By: ChefTips. on 06 Dec 08, 17:53:55
WOW! What a cool Video! Loved how you magically bounced around the leach field! Great information as usual. 5 stars!

Good video
By: bigyard23. on 26 Nov 08, 19:43:17
Good video

Yes. You should go ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 18 Nov 08, 23:34:32
Yes. You should go to my website and type septic into my search engine. Read every column. I have a specific one that tells you all the Dos and Don'ts.

Question: Does ...
By: wilsonatore. on 18 Nov 08, 23:02:03
Question: Does adding bleach, ajax, or any strong antibacterial chemical screw up the necessary bacteria in the septic tank? As in kill them so they cannot break down the crap? Thanks ahead of time, I like the videos!

Cool
By: bone2thebone. on 23 Oct 08, 02:23:38
Cool

I suppose you're ...
By: mortson978. on 22 Oct 08, 06:12:56
I suppose you're right. But dookie is still funnier.

Solids is the word. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Oct 08, 06:03:41
Solids is the word. What you're describing isn't *solid* for long in a septic tank. :-> Examples of solids are: sand, soil, tiny bits of plastic, toothpaste caps, army men, metal, anything that can't be broken down by water or bacteria that makes it down into the septic tank.

Great vid Tim. I ...
By: mortson978. on 22 Oct 08, 04:37:06
Great vid Tim. I think it's funny how it's only okay to say "SOLIDS", if I were you, i would've said deuce, or dookie, just because it would've been funny. Oh well, I suppose you're just being professional. Maybe they revoke your plumber certification if you say dookie.

Cindy, Thanks! In ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 21 Oct 08, 11:53:15
Cindy, Thanks! In all soil there are millions of *other* bacteria. These feast on the bacteria and pathogens that are in the clear waste water that finally makes it to the leach field. It's the same process that takes animal droppings in the forest and purifies that waste so the water deep in the water table isn't contaminated.

Dear Tim, What ...
By: CindyBradyTooh. on 21 Oct 08, 08:39:51
Dear Tim, What happens to all the bacteria and pathogens? That was an *AWESOME* video! It sheds light on something most people don't know about. :) ~Cindy! :) ..

THATS NOT HOW OURS ...
By: Bretty135. on 20 Oct 08, 22:00:56
THATS NOT HOW OURS WORK! our drainage pipes go to two septic tanks and as the solids settle, the water rises and trickles through a single soak-away pipe into the field behind us.

Great Vid! 5/5
By: MadBadVoodo. on 20 Oct 08, 21:48:17
Great Vid! 5/5

Good video. ...
By: wwe107. on 20 Oct 08, 19:48:28
Good video. Plastic tanks are cheaper; however, concreate is best. The too have code. Plastic can break and make a mess.

I can give him ...
By: TimberGeek. on 20 Oct 08, 17:13:41
I can give him those numbers practically off the top of my head, on some level he knows them from hearing me rant. We just spent over $19k putting in our system (not going to let that clog).

A simple phone call ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 20 Oct 08, 16:33:55
A simple phone call to a septic service may convince him. Get two quotes: 1. Pump existing system 2. Pump existing system and install a new leach field. If you fail to do #1 on a periodic basis, you *will* eventually do #2. Every septic professional will agree on that.

I was speculating ...
By: TimberGeek. on 20 Oct 08, 16:30:26
I was speculating there might be a foot of solid clay at the bottom of that tank by now. ;) Fortunately it's oversized (and must have concrete baffles) as my father keeps shrugging the idea off.

I think you should ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 20 Oct 08, 16:06:44
I think you should have it pumped. Bacteria can't digest mud, sand, and any other inorganic thing sent down the pipes. Experts will tell you that for long life and a clean leach field, you must have the tank pumped. Remember that the solids *decrease* the effective volume of water in the tank.

I should send you ...
By: TimberGeek. on 20 Oct 08, 15:56:41
I should send you photo's of mine, we've got a 1000 gallon pump chamber off the septic tank to get the grey water out to the front field. PS: The septic system in my father's house was installed in 1967 and has never had the tank pumped. They digest real well if you can develop a healthy colony.

Wiring Light Fixtures
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 115 seconds

Wiring light fixtures is simple if you know the right steps. AsktheBuilder.com host Tim Carter demonstrates how to wire a light fixture or ceiling light. His tips will allow you to wire up a light quickly and safely.

Related: ask, askthebuilder, builder, carter, fixtures, home, house, how, light, lights, tim, to, wire, wiring

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Latest comments made on this video:

Yes and its ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 20 Dec 08, 21:35:09
Yes and its recommended they get an inspection if necessary.

Is it allowed in ...
By: larsandreassen2. on 20 Dec 08, 21:32:49
Is it allowed in america to do this kind of installations themselves?

You should go read ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 17 Dec 08, 11:21:41
You should go read all of my past columns on switches at my website. Use that keyword in my search engine. switch or switches

I'm trying to ...
By: drumboi6. on 17 Dec 08, 04:08:24
I'm trying to install a light fixture to the ceiling that has a dimmer switch on the wall. On the ceiling there are 3 black wires in a bunch with a yellow cap covering all three, a black one with 3 wires joined together and capped as well, then there's one red wire capped and a ground. But it makes no mention of what to do if there's a dimmer switch? This wiring instruction assumes that I have a plain old switch. What happens to the red wire? Help!

1. connect ground ...
By: jeffsssimpala. on 05 Dec 08, 00:45:33
1. connect ground from fan to ground from ceiling. 2. connect white wire from fan to white wire from ceiling. 3. twist black and blue wires together from fan making a combined wire and connect to black wire from ceiling. easy pickens

all you have to do ...
By: jeffsssimpala. on 05 Dec 08, 00:37:32
all you have to do is twist the black and blue wires coming from the fan together connect the ground from fan to ground from ceiling, connect the white from fan to white from ceiling, then last connect the black and blue twisted together from fan to black from ceiling.

Contact the fan ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 02 Dec 08, 00:33:22
Contact the fan mfr's website for a pdf wiring diagram.

i want to instal a ...
By: alfrediux1980. on 02 Dec 08, 00:30:18
i want to instal a fan but the fan has three wires blue, black, white and ground but my oulet box has just two wires black, white and ground what can i do?

Mate, I'm a builder ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 25 Nov 08, 15:41:39
Mate, I'm a builder that happens to have quite a bit of experience with electric and plumbing. No worries as I have no intention of coming to Australia to work. I'll leave all of that to you and your buddies.

Mate you are a ...
By: keoghconboy. on 25 Nov 08, 15:12:49
Mate you are a plumber giving electrical advice what gives, i am from australia and i have to say you would loose you license over here if you tried that, i have got to say that i find the term hot for your active conducotr a rather quaint term and man are your socket outlets and light switches Large

Sorry, I'd have to ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 22 Nov 08, 16:36:31
Sorry, I'd have to be there with my voltage tester.

I am installing a ...
By: jniekerk78. on 22 Nov 08, 16:07:19
I am installing a new bathroom light and there is a red wire coming in one side only, what do I connect it to

earth continuity ...
By: krozzie303. on 15 Oct 08, 09:25:16
earth continuity test? how do you know that the light circuit or fixture doesn't have a broken earth anywhere (general question). Notice the light you replaced was double insulated and this factor is not so important.

My house is very ...
By: GR8racingfool. on 08 Oct 08, 15:10:57
My house is very old too, so when I installed new lights/ceiling fans I connected the lights ground wire to the junction box its self so it was not loose inside. It will be fine. Just make sure you use good wire nuts and not the cheap supplied nuts with the fixture. I prefer to use the red ones, with the "wings" for more grip and torque. Red colored nuts, will cover almost every wire project in your home.

Cool, helpful ...
By: woodallaj. on 07 Oct 08, 21:43:45
Cool, helpful video's but I can't seem to find a video on 3 way ceiling lights. I did one with my future stepson & only one of the 2 lights work & same with the switches. HELP! My girlfriend thinks I'm the brains of the outfit & I'd like to keep it that way... ;o)

What do you do if ...
By: humynism. on 06 Oct 08, 03:31:31
What do you do if your wires coming from the ceiling have only black and white and no ground?

My advice is to ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 23 Jul 08, 13:30:48
My advice is to read many of the comments in my Switch videos. You will see many from UK electricians. Go to their channels and send them a message.

Hi mate. Excellent ...
By: D10M0. on 21 Jul 08, 19:34:01
Hi mate. Excellent advice your giving. Quick question, I am in the UK and would like to wire multiple lights together either directly or through a plug. In your opinion is this safe/possible to do? No more than 30w each, 5 lights, 240v UK mains.

Put it on the same ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 16 Jun 08, 23:37:25
Put it on the same screw.

i am going to hook ...
By: sentrand. on 16 Jun 08, 23:23:30
i am going to hook up a bathroom light fixture. you said to put the ground (coming from the lightswitch) onto the green screw on the mounting piece for the fixture. what do i hook the ground wire from the light itself.

It depends on who ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 23 May 08, 10:55:46
It depends on who you ask....... My guess is an inspector would tell you to run a ground wire to the location. Someone else might tell you to connect the fixture without one as there are millions of fixtures connected in the USA that have never been grounded.

im putting in a ...
By: warrrp88. on 23 May 08, 02:12:15
im putting in a light fixture in a very old house and there is only a black(hot) and white wire. i see no visible ground wire. what should i do. the old light fixture had two wires from the fixture going to the white wire and then just the normal black to black.

Think about it. If ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 13 May 08, 23:41:57
Think about it. If a hot wire does come into contact the breaker trips that much sooner. The people who wrote the NEC must have a reason. You might want to research this and see what is behind it.

I can't believe ...
By: laoislad. on 13 May 08, 22:19:40
I can't believe it's not regulation in your country to sleeve the earth(ground) wire That just wouldn't be acceptable in Ireland. Im a qualified Electrican with my own company and if one of my employees didn't sleeve the earth wire he would be in trouble. What if the bare ground wire comes in contact with the live feed wire? the whole light fitting becomes live Very bad practice not to sleeve the ground wire

Same principal. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 May 08, 00:16:37
Same principal. Just watch the color coding of the wires.

Blacktop Driveway Crack Repair
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 360 seconds

http://www.AskTheBui lder.com host Tim Carter demonstrates one way to repair blacktop driveway cracks and shares a tip for concealing the repaired driveway cracks.

Related: askthebuilder, blacktop, building, carter, diy, driveway, driveways, home, house, howto, outdoors, remodeling, repair, tim

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Latest comments made on this video:

nice safety glasses ...
By: PokemonMasterSammy. on 19 Dec 08, 06:54:05
nice safety glasses!Safety first!!!!

Indeed you do. As ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Dec 08, 15:33:33
Indeed you do. As they say at Nike: Just Do It. Remember, excuses are reasons for failure.

Oh I see. I don't ...
By: GTAassistant. on 14 Dec 08, 15:28:42
Oh I see. I don't have one of those. I only have a digital camera. haha. I need a job!

We use a ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Dec 08, 12:35:09
We use a high-definition camera, actually two of them. If you mean the graphic at the end, that was done with Final Cut Pro the editing software.

That would be ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 14 Dec 08, 12:33:55
That would be affirmative.

I saw how it siad, ...
By: GTAassistant. on 14 Dec 08, 05:41:18
I saw how it siad, "Filmed in HD" how do you do that?

Do you live in ...
By: GTAassistant. on 14 Dec 08, 05:34:27
Do you live in Meredith, New Hampshire?

By the way, the ...
By: lti12. on 12 Nov 08, 16:44:48
By the way, the excavator is someone I know and he helped me lay down the sewer pipe, water line, and phone, coming into the house. But the Conduit for the electric line we wore not aloud to put in, the electric company put it in. But I saved a lot of money there, I bet a would have to shell out at least $300 for the plumber to come in and do it for me. I can make a video of it if you like.

No, what I meant is ...
By: lti12. on 12 Nov 08, 16:39:06
No, what I meant is it is vary true that you cant do everything yourself, for example, I couldn't do concrete myself. It takes at least two people. And as far as excavator goes. By the time I would rent all the equipment, the level laser and everything else I needed. It would cost me almost the same money as I paid hiring a contractor. There are a lot of things you can do yourself, which I described above, which don't require expensive tools and save you a lot of money.

I can't answer. ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 Nov 08, 12:54:36
I can't answer. Contact your local building department. All of them around the nation have different regulations. For example, I believe it's impossible for you to pull a plumbing permit in Massachusetts as a homeowner. I believe it may be the same for electrical work in Illinois. You just have to go ask those who issue the permits.

I wasn't clear ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 12 Nov 08, 12:52:39
I wasn't clear about that point or if I was, you took it out of context. What I discovered is that IF you do everything yourself or with a helper, it TAKES TOO LONG. You can't make any money trying to do it all yourself if you're building for a client or speculation. If you want to do everything yourself for your own home, that's called sweat equity. No issues there.

Cont... But I am ...
By: lti12. on 12 Nov 08, 08:20:36
Cont... But I am wanting to do Vinyl Siding, Plumbing, Hard wood floors, Tile, and Sheetrock myself. I have a question though. I heard that if you do something like plumbing of electrical yourself for your own house, and you don't have a license, then you need to live in that house for 2 years before you can sell it too make shore everything will be fine. Is that true? Also how many houses can you sell a year before you are required to have a general contractors license and a business license?

Ye, all the ...
By: lti12. on 12 Nov 08, 08:13:41
Ye, all the contractors I talked to say its vary common to have cold joints. I can make a video and show you the cold joints if you like. Anyway I read your autobiography. It was interesting when you said "Soon I figured out that you can't do every task at the jobsite". This is the first house I am building and I am trying to do a lot of things myself. Luckily my brother in law is a framer, and I will be framing the house with him.

If you have a ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 08 Nov 08, 12:21:42
If you have a concern, now is the time to act. Hire a residential structural engineer that specializes in concrete foundations. I can't comment because it requires a visit to the field to see it.

Cont... Then, they ...
By: lti12. on 08 Nov 08, 04:22:50
Cont... Then, they came around to pure the walls, and I think that's what caused the cold seam or whatever its called. There is also a cold seam at the point were they started pouring the wall coming all the way around the wall to the same point. Is this a common occurrence, or did I just hire terrible concrete crow?

I found out what ...
By: lti12. on 08 Nov 08, 04:09:33
I found out what had happened. Usually when the foundation is poured, they pure the footing first, put in the vertical re-bars, let it dry, and then pore the foundation walls. In my case, they poured the footing and the walls as one pore, all together (No vertical re-bars). Most of the cold seams lines run horizontally along the bottom of the wall. The reason is, when they poured the footing, they poured a little too much, so it filled the bottom part of the wall.

If it's a true cold ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 07 Nov 08, 12:13:04
If it's a true cold seam, that can be an issue. You better have a structural engineer look at it if you want an independent answer.

Hi Tim. Getting my ...
By: lti12. on 07 Nov 08, 03:58:48
Hi Tim. Getting my house construction going. I got a question though. I am doing a sub floor, yesterday I had my concrete poured. Today, they took the form's out, which I thought was a little too soon, but anyway, on some concrete walls there is sort of a line, I don't want to say a crack because as you probably know when you just pour the foundation and you peal the skin, you can see foundation rock. That is what it looks like. So is it a big deal, or is it not a big deal? thx

Thanks, keep up the ...
By: darknightten. on 05 Nov 08, 02:30:04
Thanks, keep up the good work!

There is a gray ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 24 Oct 08, 07:44:49
There is a gray concrete caulk. It's not as critical to deal with these cracks as they often don't get as much water in them as exterior concrete exposed to the elements. Snow melt can get in a garage crack, so it's not a bad idea to seal them.

Thanks so much, Tim ...
By: ionxi. on 24 Oct 08, 01:34:11
Thanks so much, Tim, always nice to watch your videos. Is there a caulk or something to repair my garage crack lines? The lines are thin so I don't know it is necessary to do it. Can you comment on this? Many thanks!

yeh we can tell ...
By: jami3r00. on 19 Oct 08, 14:21:01
yeh we can tell you're 14 toohey94

The only thing I ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 19 Oct 08, 12:02:25
The only thing I can say is that there indeed is no substitute for brains.

hahahaha you'r such ...
By: toohey94. on 19 Oct 08, 11:55:11
hahahaha you'r such a scard person im only 14 and i always do stuff without safty

Maybe. This was ...
By: AsktheBuilder. on 19 Oct 08, 11:54:04
Maybe. This was what was available at my local hardware store. Most of the asphalt-based materials are very similar. I was looking for one that was very sticky, and believe me it was.

Plumbing Vent Pipe Tip
Posted by: AsktheBuilder

Video duration: 125 seconds

http://www.AsktheBui lder.com host Tim Carter shares a quick lesson to help you out of a tough spot when working with plumbing vent pipe.

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