DIY Builds
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What materials dont grow mold?

There are no real natural surfaces that repel it. In fact even living creatures like sloths are known to have algae growing on their fur! While this is a fascinating piece of information, the real issue here is that mold growth is not welcome in anyone's home.

How do I keep rats from tunneling under my shed?
How do I keep rats from tunneling under my shed?

You can seal cracks with caulking and cover vents with steel mesh. The sooner you act, the better. Rats are social creatures that breed rapidly, so...

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How much does woodworking cost per hour?
How much does woodworking cost per hour?

As a point of reference, the shop rate for woodworking in the U.S. and Canada is between $35 and $85 per hour according to FDMC's Pricing Survey. I...

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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Mold

By now you would have seen mold grow just about anywhere. Food, clothes, walls, and even the soil. There are no real natural surfaces that repel it. In fact even living creatures like sloths are known to have algae growing on their fur! While this is a fascinating piece of information, the real issue here is that mold growth is not welcome in anyone’s home. You are better off having none at all and that is the ideal situation for any person.

Why mold grows

Mold, in some form or another is everywhere. It is ubiquitous and there is no way to actually escape it. If the conditions are right, it will appear anywhere. There has to be moisture, a place to grow and the right temperature. Mold will normally feed off the surface it grows on, so food is also taken care of, if none of the conditions are disturbed, it can be quite rapid. The best way to stop growth once it starts will be to cut off one of the three conditions. If there is some form of basement leak, cutting off the water will put the mold out and it will wither away. It will not die, but will stop spreading.

Mold resistance

There are, however a number of surfaces where mold will not grow. Treated surfaces and drywall have been found to resist growth, even when wet. While it may seem like a good idea to have such surfaces everywhere, they are not 100% effective. If there is too much wetness, like a leaking pipe, there are chances that it will eventually grow around it. Paint is another method where the surface like wood or drywall can be covered under a few coats of paint. Special mold resistant paint is available in the market, but they can also be expected to work only to a certain extent. The most effective way to control crawl space mold will be to prevent it from happening. If you have some cause to worry about basement moisture, get it fixed. If you have any plumbing related issues, make sure the walls are aired out and dried sufficiently. If you smell anything that suggests mold or get a damp, musty smell on a wall or in your basement, make sure to get it cleaned thoroughly.

Do you need a slab for a shed?
Do you need a slab for a shed?

No, in most cases. While garages do require a concrete slab, our exclusive steel joist system has more than adequate strength and moisture...

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What is a British bothy?
What is a British bothy?

A bothy is a basic shelter, usually left unlocked and available for anyone to use free of charge. It was also a term for basic accommodation,...

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What is the best way to anchor a shed?

How to Anchor a Shed to the Ground Without Concrete Looping a cabled anchor around a ground frame. Looping a cabled anchor over an inside structural member. Bolting a cabled anchor to the outside of the shed. Using large Penetrator anchors under the ground frame for both support (replacing footings) and as a hold-down. More items... •

There are five primary methods for securing sheds to the ground without concrete. Looping a cabled anchor around a ground frame. Looping a cabled anchor over an inside structural member. Bolting a cabled anchor to the outside of the shed. Using large Penetrator anchors under the ground frame for both support (replacing footings) and as a hold-down. Using smaller Penetrator anchors with L-brackets for securing sheds into asphalt and for temporary building installations. The specific method, and the number and placement of anchors, will depend upon shed size, soil conditions, and your preference. If a larger shed needs support as well as hold-down (requires footings), the large Penetrators can provide both functions with the same anchor. The largest (46") can replace poured concrete as an easier, faster, equally effective, and less expensive alternative. For the best holding strength, anchors should be installed at a minimum spacing equal to the depth of the anchor, in order to avoid each other’s “cone of soil” — the region of soil that contributes to an anchor’s holding strength. This applies to both cabled anchors and Penetrator (screw-type) anchors.

Drive rod and sledge or demolition hammer for cabled anchors.

Impact wrench or power take-off (PTO) for Penetrator anchors.

Depending on your preferred method, you’ll need the following tools for installation:

For complete instructions, download the Shed Anchor Installation PDF.

What can I use instead of house wrap?
What can I use instead of house wrap?

StoGuard is a fluid-applied weather barrier that's faster and easier to install than traditional housewraps. The product can be sprayed on or...

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What adds more value to a home a deck or patio?
What adds more value to a home a deck or patio?

Both a deck and a patio offer an impressive resale value. However, patios are usually less expensive to put in and their resale value sits at...

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Is it cheaper to build with steel or wood?
Is it cheaper to build with steel or wood?

Ultimately, wooden building materials are cheaper, but the ongoing costs and building costs make them much more expensive than you could ever...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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How do I sell homemade wood furniture?
How do I sell homemade wood furniture?

Etsy is a great platform for selling all homemade furniture, but especially homemade furniture with a unique flair. Creative, custom items thrive...

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