I was cruising the forum today, and I thought to myself…I wonder what things people are learning from this forum, or from the magazine, or from the jobsite – that they didn’t already know. Especially the old hats on this forum, who seem to contribute with experience on every subject…I wonder what they learn. What makes them go “hmmm, interesting”. Surely everybody must learn a new technique, or a new area that they don’t have experience in.
So, in the wake of the long popular “What did you DO today?” thread, here is the “What did you LEARN today?” thread.
Justin Fink – FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
Replies
I learned that the "Search" function is not completely useless.
Seriously, Justin, we don't ever stop to thank you guys for running this mad house. The good, the bad, and the ugly - it's all good !
Thanks.
Greg
A couple of things of interest to me,
- video on joinery failure tests was neat
- might try Goggle sketch-up, apparently, its free, so its within my budget.
- someone (another unsung hero) provided a link for a new drywall bead, Trim-tex.
- I also learned that few here agree on what the structural purpose of a collar tie is. I tactfully stayed out of that one, I was a lover, not a fighter.
And a personal thank you for maintaining this madhouse
A collar tie is ... oh never mind.
I asked here about cordless circular saw with the blade on the right. Went to HD today and asked if they could special order a Ridgid 24V li-ion saw for me. The guy called Ridgid and they said they don't have any at the time.
So they design and put the saw into production only to pull it out of production? Stupid.
So far the only right blade ( i'm a lefty) high V (24) li-ion saw out there is the Ridgid.
Makita makes a 24V one that isn't Li-Ion that they are pulling out of production.
Any others? the only reason I'm stuck on the right blade is I think I'm going to use this saw a lot.
You know, I don't care who makes it, but I have always wanted one of those little cordless circ saws. I mean the small ones. Not the newer ones that are getting to be as big as regular saws.Even something like the makita with the old 9v battery would keep me happy. What is that ? 3 inch ? Pretty much perfect. It'll cut 1x and trim.But then, I am sure I wouldn't have as much use for it as you do. If I did, I'd be as picky about it as you are being.Still, even though I wouldn't be using it constantly, that doesn't mean it wouldn't be invaluable the few times I do need it. I just don't seem to think of it when I have money in my pocket, and never have money in my pocket when I do think of it. LOL=0)~~~Justin, you can see what I learned, over in the tool section, in my 4wd thread.;o)
Fight fire with water.
I worked with a guy who used the 9v makita. He would turn the saw upside down and cut along the bottom of the board. His line on top was completely visible and all the sawdust fell away from the bottom of the board. Worked great for trim.
It has to be a cordless saw? I just bought an awesome Bosch wormdrive saw that's lefty...it's so powerful, and comes with a brand new blue Bosch quick connect extension cord! Sorry if this doesn't help!
I've thought of looking at other wormdrives but I grew up with Skill 77s and have one now that is in top shape. It will probably outlive me.
I learned that my stones are apparently gathering moss.
Time to roll........
Support our Troops. Bring them home. Now. And pray that at least some of the buildings in the green zone have flat roofs, with a stairway.
As a frequent "lurker" and infrequent poster, I have learned more than I could ever put in writing from this illustrious group. So many techniques, tips and tricks and I love the continuous threads from McDesign and others. One of the big things I have learned is to stay out of the political threads in the Tavern! I never thought contractors were such a Liberal bunch!
I never thought contractors were such a Liberal bunch!
Not all of us are. :)
What I learnt today was on the job and not here, but I think worth stating.
Has somewhat to do with relearning - the importance of keeping good records. Two years ago we finished a job but there was a room where somebody missed on the punch list to touch up the paint line between baseboard and wall.
So I had to look up what wall colour we had used. It was green and I had looked in all their leftover paints. About seven different greens there and all of them looked far too light or pale to match this room.
So This morning I looked it up. Farrow and Ball #33 Pea Green Emulsion!
Every detail was important, because they had a Pea green oil floor paint, and a Pea Green oil Satin trim paint. The wall was water based Emulsion, so even if I had matched the right colour, I might have used the wrong texture.
AND I re-learned how nice F&B paint is to use! Smooth and heavy like cream. Paints so nice!
Welcome to the
Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
where ...
Excellence is its own reward!
I learned today that my mind is faster than my feet.
thought I could move 20 yds of mulch in two days..
they dumped it here a little while ago.
Its gonna take me three for sure...ugh
View Image
"What people will notice and remember is the broad brush of how how we act.We can aspire to reach our high ideals, or we can slide down the slippery slope towards the despicable." rjw
http://www.john-lennon.com/imagine-neilyoung.ra
http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Should have had a "Mulchfest"
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
Need to put some of that on the horseshoe pit.
be snorK*ed
I built the chimney after my hoeing in the fall, before a fire became necessary for warmth, doing my cooking in the meanwhile out of doors on the ground, early in the morning: which mode I still think is in some respects more convenient and agreeable than the usual one. -Thoreau's Walden
Edited 6/12/2007 7:57 pm ET by rez
Hey, I've pee'ed there before.Glamorous
There's joy in repetition........... Buddha.." I'm working on it"
I don't mean to alarm you, but it appears that you have indians living in your back yard :)
andy,
I may well be wrong but I seem to remember that you just sold a bobcat... I gotta be wrong, a man never sells a tool and needs it again, must have been someone else sold it."Poor is not the person who has too little, but the person who craves more."...Seneca
Nope...Wrong HinJew.... HinJews never sell their Bobcats...flying carpets maybe...but Bobcats? Never...lol.
I have a lil' tractor to pull that wagon...I lay a sheet of 1/2" ply on top of it...load her up and dump the plywood where ever...Still takes forever though.
"What people will notice and remember is the broad brush of how how we act.We can aspire to reach our high ideals, or we can slide down the slippery slope towards the despicable." rjw
http://www.john-lennon.com/imagine-neilyoung.ra
http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Andy, I'm moving 18 yards of roadbase into tires, building a retaining wall.
What I learned today is if I take a chain saw and cut the sidewall out of the tire on one side, I can fill it in minutes rather than packing it into the sidewall so it bulges like a chipmunk.
Make any sense?
That and old sorry backhoe gets the roadbase to the tires a lot easier than your wagon. Still have to shovel it though.
Tons of fun for old guys.
Joe H
Andy, I'm moving 18 yards of roadbase into tires, building a retaining wall.
What I learned today is if I take a chain saw and cut the sidewall out of the tire on one side, I can fill it in minutes rather than packing it into the sidewall so it bulges like a chipmunk.
Make any sense?<<<Makes sense to me but I spose you have to figure out how long and what kind of hassle it is to cut the tires...be careful dude.
I found a place near me that has mulch, and topsoil at GREAT prices($10 a yd). I went there the other day to check out the different mulch colors to be sure its what I wanted before I ordered it all. I noticed mountains of road base. Looks ugly to move or even touch for that matter. Looks like it'd do a great job for you though.
That lil' yellow $80 wagon I scored from Lowes a few weeks ago is GREAT!! Nice fat tires...holds over 800lbs and the side gates fold down on hinges. Rolls nice and smooth over anything. Gonna lay a bigger sheet of ply on top of it today (4x8). Shoveling mulch is eay. Nice and fluffy.
Might try and just push it off the top of the pile with my shovel onto the ply to make it even easier. Still have to make five zillion trips though.
Still...all the landscape companies wanted $55 a yd and $40 an hour per man. Screw that. And no...they won't let me supply my own mulch.
Pulling my wagon with my lawn tractor too so...I might get it done in 2 days. I'll save exactly $2000 for 2-3 days work.
HAve fun dude.
"What people will notice and remember is the broad brush of how how we act.We can aspire to reach our high ideals, or we can slide down the slippery slope towards the despicable." rjw
http://www.john-lennon.com/imagine-neilyoung.ra
http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Tires actually cut like butter once you get the end of the bar through. That smokes a bit but once through they just zip right out. Need to figure something artsy to do with those sidewall rings.
Road base is nasty stuff but it packs together easily, and with the tires open I can tamp it down quick.
Feeling a bit creaky this morning. I'm gonna need another truckload soon at the rate I'm having fun.
Pulling my wagon with my lawn tractor too so...I might get it done in 2 days. I'll save exactly $2000 for 2-3 days work.
And it'll be done the way you want it, not the way the landscapers decided they wanted it. Since I'm retired the $1000 days are behind me, but saving $2000 still works.
Ruby has one of those yellow wagons too, it gets a lot of use. She isn't interested in moving road base though. Think we got it at Lowes too a few years back. She also has a little cart with a seat on it, same fat tires & a tractor seat that swivels. Great for gardening.
Joe H
Are you putting anything in front of the tires for looks? I was able to stack block over my head (which admittedly rides around not that far above the ground) after using tires to restrain the very sandy/sloughy bank first. I didn't deadman the block back to the tires, even, just filled behind with sand. The block wall's solid as can be, now, with zero movement.
Break time from that fun.
I'm planning dirt and large rocks (as soon as I build my thumb). I have a lot of large rocks and boulders that can be used to fill it and create a rock garden type bank.
That's the plan, but it's gonna be awhile. Probably finish the wall & move on to some other things first. I have multiple projects & only one Joe. Left the bucket full of roadbase over night to see if the shovel faireys would come by. No luck with that idea.
Joe H
Right where the outhouse sat at Tipifest. Ironic?
I'm Huge in Japan!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPONTneuaF4
I learned that the 15 year old makita mitre saw has an adjustment for perpendicular to the table. I never needed it before.
Have a good day
Cliffy
I learned today, that I hate my job
you realize you are in control of changing that
What do you mean you learned that today ?You've known that for as long as I have known you.;o)
Fight fire with water.
He forgets every night.
I'm sure you may know this already but: If you really do hate your job then you have to make a change. Life is to short to hate going to work and staying there all day 5 times a week. I've been there and am so glad I left. You know what you like, go get it!
I'm not trying to sound condescending so please know my thoughts are respectfully given to you.
Have a good day
Cliffy
It does? How about a 24 year old Makita 10" mitre? I thought it was one solid block of cast iron.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
Justin,
Have you guys ever thought of trying to organize this forum kind of like an encyclopaedia?
I've thought it might be helpful, for example, to add subcategories to "Construction Techniques" like: concrete, framing, electrical, plumbing, siding, finish work, etc. It might make it a lot easier to find what one's looking for without having to rely so heavily on the search engine.
Edited 6/12/2007 9:56 pm ET by Ragnar17
Be careful what you wish for. They did that to Knots. The people that didn't quit the site completely raised a ruckus.
Something that I read a long time ago here came into good use today.
Had to retrofit 7 canlights into a 12 X 12 kitchen - original was knob - tube.
Set a 4 X 4 work box up in the joist space to make the jump to romex - accessable from the remodel can.
Wouldn't have had enough k&t to work with, but being able to jump to romex got me started on the string.
Read it here and saved me today.
Remodeling Contractor just on the other side of the Glass City
I just learned that when cutting glass, after scoring one side, you tap the glass on the other side to increase the depth of the crack before splitting the cut off
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
and wear gloves...Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming<!----><!----><!---->
WOW!!! What a Ride!Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
Justin,
I read your "Multi-bit Driver" thread today and I'm thinking I should try a good quality model. The cheapo versions I've used before did not impress me. I've gone back to old-fashioned screwdrivers. A really good multi-driver could lighten my tool tote...hmmm.
BT can get people to rethink things they thought they knew.
I used several tips, I've picked up here over the years, at work today:
-coped with a grinder
-used a Tenryu MS blade
-used a Fein vac for the first time today...nice & quiet (purchased based on FHB rev. & BT).
-used a pencil & wore a hat that were freebies at the JLC Live show that I heard about here.
Today I think I learned that my Paslode 16ga. trim nailer jams when I use other brands of nails in it...anyone else experience this?
You never know what you might learn here.
Not here..
But I did relearn an early driving lesson...
do NOT drive past a Stop sign without seeing it.... so preoccupied you don't even see the cop parked just beyond it.... And pass him as he flicks his lights on... Only costs $252 to relearn . sigh..."Poor is not the person who has too little, but the person who craves more."...Seneca
I learned the my back still hurts ...
there's absolutely nothing on tv all day.
and that the more I'm away from this web site ... the easier it is to stay away.
I also learned thge a good plumber and a great friend can help U wrap up a job that yer unable to get to ... even when there's a last minute plumbing rough-in problem that's under the newly finished tile floor ...
reports from the plumber at 8:30pm was only one small tile had to be chipped away and DanteO told him he'd replace it for me ...
sometimes it's good to be outta the loop.
Jeff
Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
Well said!
I learned that Jeff Buck and I both must be getting older because I'm at home with a sore back for only the second time in about ten years. This time though I'm self employed so it is costing me money.
Your right about tv but in addition, the dam call centres seem to know when you atay home. How many times do they need to be told I don't want another credit card.
Have a good day
Cliffy
just checked yer profile ...
I turned 40 last Dec.
my back has been "touchy" the last 10 yrs ...
but this is officially the 3rd time it's been "this bad" ...
so now I figure I get around 3.3 or so good years outta it?
good thing for us ... we're both tough enough to get thru it in short order!
me ... decided to take it easy and take the full week off ... now officially booked to work straight thru starting next Monday ... thru the weekend ... and following week ... which was already planned on speeding up production ... and I will keep us on schedule.
This week ... I plan to bitch, moan and cry alot though. First things first!
Last Sat ... first of the bad nites ... I did manage to get down on the floor with my boy and we built his new "big boys bike" ... spent half the time sitting on a zip-lock fulla crushed ice and half the time fighting to stand "for just a second" ...
but he was taking his midnight ride dammit!
(ok ... 9 pm) ...
pain is pain ... but he waited all week for me to get home to build it.
hell ... I'll regain feeling in that leg someday ... ?
Jeff
Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
my back has been "touchy" the last 10 yrs ...
but this is officially the 3rd time it's been "this bad"
Jeff, I've seen you mention the bad back before, did you ever injure it or is it just a bad back?
I fell and broke my back in 5 places about 15, maybe 17 years ago. I go through some days where the pain is so bad......... for the most part its just uncomfortable enough for me to bitch to others about.
I used to go to a chiro that used this center punch looking device, spring loaded thing that was stratigically placed to relieve the presure on muscles. Last time I went it really didnt do any good, plus the doc charged me for a "first time visit" just because I had moved away and came back.
I couldnt work one day because of pain and my boss told me to quit going to the chiro that I was using and try his out. I did, oh what a relief. Had to go about three times in one week to get everything straitened out but finally did.
I was always apprehensive about letting anyone manipulate my back for fear that they might just f$%k it up for good, I've revived my position on that one.
3.3 years left huh? You better figure something out, that kid aint going to let you get away with the "bad back" thing forever!
I have three boys in their 20's from my first marriage that think they can take the ole man .... last summer I took all them on in a wrestling match, one at a time of course, and pinned them all in less then a minute per.
Can let them beat me, couldnt stand to hear the bs they'd give me. I"ll cheat if need be, cant loose my image!
Doug
Hey Jeff,
my back has been "touchy" the last 10 yrs ...
but this is officially the 3rd time it's been "this bad" ...
hell ... I'll regain feeling in that leg someday
Man I know that sucks!
It sounds like we have similar back problems. I had an episode last summer ( lost a month of work ). eventually the doctor gave me 2 rounds of steroids, each round is a 5 day course.
That was the only thing that worked. Anti inflammatory and muscle relaxers didn't touch it!
The pain medicine didn't help much either.
If that leg doesn't let up soon the steroids may be worth a try.
By the way, that numbness takes a good long time to completely clear up. My toes and part of my calf are still pins and needles.
Good luck dude, rest up and pace yourself.
Bill
Atta boy!! You're the best!!
Whatever else happens, your son will remember that night forever!
Gotta go, I,m gettin' misty eyed.
Jeff- I'll second finding a good chiropractor
some are quacks, but a good one will help a lot.
mine keeps me going. I see him every two weeks.
Bob,Just talked to Joe and told him you shot and 81. He said laughing that was good, but wants to know what you shot on the back nine?Joe Carola
Looks like I'm gonna have to make a trip out to Oldwick to give him a smack
<G>
Your boy will remember that special time forever. Our kids are little for a short time, good choice .
I took yesterday off. I'm 42 now. Took a little bike ride last night with my girls and it made sleeping tough. Last day today till fall teaching at the local college so it was easy on the back. Back to it tomorrow, a few door stops then tiling a small bathroom floor.
Luckily I did a wack of work for a chiropractor buddy a couple of summers ago and his receptionist remembers me. I waddle in and she puts me in right away!
I think trying to unhook my big utility tatiler did not help so I mainly have to remember not to be stupid!
Have a good day!
Cliffy
PS Did I tell you that when I showed my class the steel stud cutting trick of yours we called it Bucking the stud?!
Edited 6/14/2007 10:45 pm ET by cliffy
Hi JeffYou don't have to be around 40 years of age to get the back problems. I'm only 35 and get the bulging disk happen every 2-4 month. This started when I was 31 years old.It really upsets me when I can't play with the 2 kids (3 and 4 years old) after they are waiting for their papa to come home. Martin
mine actually feels better when I lay face down and have someone push in the small of my back ... or jump on it.
which ... the 5 year old never seems to mind!
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
Lucky me my wife looks after me very wellWhen I get the disc problems she massages my lower back and specially the disc between L3 and L4 with "Traumeel", a homeopathic cream. As some body mentioned I also read the Pete Egoscue Book "Pain Free". I do my exercises every morning but still get the problems every once in a while. I heard from a friend of mine in Germany they have a new method of treatment for this. They pump gas in your spine which moves the disc in its original place. According to him you are up and running and back to work in 5-7 days.Martin
I learned this week that it doesn't just quit when you get over fifty five either. It was real sore all last weekend, then monday something popped and then driving home on ever bump my butt cheeks felt warm and squishy and tingles down both legs. Lotta Aleve this week.
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
Piffin,
I am reminded of a conversation I had with a chiropractor back in the mid seventies.
Social gathering, but I mentioned my sore back , he asked what I did for a living. When I told him I was a carp he asked if I wanted a way to keep my back from hurting. Of course I said "Yes He looked at me .....Said ....
.
.
.
.
... "Find another way to make a living.""Poor is not the person who has too little, but the person who craves more."...Seneca
Opposite story -Back when I was in my thirties, I went to a doc for a full physical and doing the history ( I'd already had one spine event by then) I said that my Dad had had a surgery on his back when he was about forty something and was there anything different I should be doing to avoid that.His answer was that the work was keeping me in good shape and probably the best thing I could do for it.That is partly true. Once you've been through physical therapy for it, to learn how to use it and how to strengthen the supporting musculature, you realize and respect how it is all made.
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
>>> His answer was that the work was keeping me in good shape
Very true in my experience. Before doing renovations full-time, I was an office worker for about 20 years. Sitting on my butt 10~12 hours/day. Developped back problems from my mid-thirties till my last day at my desk. Lotsa chiro work and many days lost because I couldn't stand straight at times.
Back has been much better since, despite the bigger demands (but also more varied) that I place on it.
Today I learned that the metal mesh sometimes used in place of plaster lath strips is made by making a series of slits in a metal sheet, then pulling the from either end until the slits open up into diamond shapes.
...seems obvious now, but I never really took the time to even wonder how it was made, I guess.Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
That is why when we order it, we ask for "expanded metal lathe"
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
And the stuff can cut like a razor knife.
I learned that a long time ago.
The hard way.
<< And the stuff can cut like a razor knife. >>
Now that, I knew! haha. I mean, the fact that it's expanded metal lathe makes perfect sense, I guess I just never bothered to think about it...kind of like the other day when I was going, hmm...why are there really two little holes in the end of the tangs on an electrical plug? one of them things...Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
Now you've got me wondering why the holes are in the tangs of the plug.
You know the answer? I don't.
I learned this week that it doesn't just quit when you get over fifty five either
Damn man, there goes another dream down the drain!
I think your right in your next post, keep working it, keeps it "lubed" up. I know when I stop for a few days thats when I have the most problems - although that does interfere with my plans to stop doing this stuff someday!
Doug
driving home on ever bump my butt cheeks felt warm and squishy
Don't be eating lunch there again.
Joe H
Once, when I was a mailman, I walked up to a door to get a signature on a certified letter. No one was home, but a big dog came around from the back, and wouldn't let me get back in my jeep. I quickly walked around to the other side of the jeep, to keep the vehicle between me and the dog. We had a stare-down, and he wasn't going to give in. Proudly showed me his shiny white teeth, in fact. And I couldn't get in the jeep from the side I was on, as there is a welded metal shelf to hold mail trays.
So I sprayed pepper spray right through the jeep - in one window, and out the other side. Got him good, and he ran off. Later, as I'm driving, my butt started really burning. I'm wondering What the heck? Then it dawns on me - pepper spray all over the seat. As I perspired and my pores opened up, Yeoww! Talk about burning butt cheeks! Guess the dog had the last laugh on that one!"...an open mind is a powerful thing. The ability to listen to others is invaluable."
Jim Blodgett
LOL, I knew after I posted that somebody would paint that picture.But the feeling was like inside the butt muscle. It is a feeling I reognized from past popped discs. Weird but better than that hot searing pain that comes other times
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
Congratulations!
JoeH receives the much coveted brownbagg/MrT One-Liner Award.
Saaaalute!View Image View ImageWho knows but if men constructed their dwellings with their own hands, and provided food for themselves and families simply and honestly enough, the poetic faculty would be universally developed, as birds universally sing when they are so engaged?-Thoreau's Walden
Just saw the happy dance man. This must be a white guy trying to dance. Sober.
1. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative
on the same night.
2. There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."
3. Never lick a steak knife.
4. You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely
suggests that you think she's pregnant unless you can see an actual
baby emerging from her at that moment.
5. The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age,
gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that,
deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.
6. Never be afraid to try something new. Remember that a lone amateur
built the Ark. A large group of highly paid professionals built
the Titanic.
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming<!----><!----><!---->
WOW!!! What a Ride!Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
Busy day.
more so than usual...
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming<!----><!----><!---->
WOW!!! What a Ride!Forget the primal scream, just ROAR!!!
Jeff, Cliffy,Just in case you haven't heard of it, there a book called "Pain Free" by Pete Egoscue (Bantam Books) that has some exercises in it that have helped me & a couple of friends quite a bit.
That its so dry here that somebody needs to bring back the "What did you Dew Today" thread.
That & its time to change out the Punk Jack poles.
View Image
I learned that the updated codes (2006 IRC) now say that every basement, regardless of whether it's used for sleeping, or even considered habitable, must have a means of emergency egress. Probably a smart idea.
Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
I just found out today that there changing the window egress code for second story windows from 18" to 24".Joe Carola
Hey, Joe-
you find that out before or after framing?
years ago, I found out ( the hard way) when they made the code that windows right next to doors had to be tempered glass.
You seen Glennon recently? Say hello to him for me, and tell him I shot an 81 last week. (golfing)
Bob Sheppard
Edited 6/13/2007 9:32 pm ET by Shep
Bob,I found out today that the building inspector from Caldwell (My Town) is speaking tomorrow night at Black Millwork at the Andersen Window beefsteak dinner and he will tell everyone there when the code is changing. I';ll call a couple Architects tomorrow and see if they heard about it.That's going to change a lot of things especially remodeling. I just framed an addition where I had to =match the existing ceiling height of 7'4" and we had 9-1/2" microlams specked for headers. I had to make them flush because there was no room under the plate.Maybe Andersen will come out with an egress window that is shorter and wider to make up for the 6".I talked to Joe today and I let him know tomorrow about your 81. I'm pretty good a miniature golf with my son............;-)Joe Carola
Haven't been to that dinner for a few years. It's pretty good.
Have fun.
I have a 2002 code book. I probably should get a new one. It would sure be nice if there was a way to keep up with code changes.
I taught myself how to pick up brush and logs with a 4 in 1 backhoe front bucket. A large tree came down in my yard and I happened to have my friend's backhoe in my backyard for some other work. Made short work of it. I love learning new things.
what code rules you?
>> what code rules you? <<I'm under IRC.Joe Carola
"I just found out today that there changing the window egress code for second story windows from 18" to 24"."to accommodate that expanding American waistline . . .
>> to accommodate that expanding American waistline <<That's a good one, but the reason that I got when I asked was for small children jumping out the windows.Joe Carola
Codes keep shrinking the distance between balusters, ostensibly because kids keep squeezing through them. 4" is the limit now.But they have to make the windows 24"?
i stand by the big butt theory <g>
I heard that is why all these stick figures with big butts are painted all over the place:
"Codes keep shrinking the distance between balusters, ostensibly because kids keep squeezing through them. 4" is the limit now.But they have to make the windows 24"?i stand by the big butt theory <g>"VERY INCISIVE POINT! (I fully agree, BTW)Bill
I've recently learned a good trick for cleaning stubborn glue residue left behind from duct tape. Spray a little WD-40 on a rag and it wipes it away no problem.
Uh, OK, a few thangs I learned lately:
PVC needs primer before glue, but ASB pipe requires only glue. PVC has to be held under pressure for a few seconds when gluing. (I know this is basic, but I rarely do any plumbing.) 4" PVC comes in different thicknesses. Meaning if you send a worker to the supply house for 4" PVC, Murphy's Law dictates that he will return with the size that will not match the work you are tying into.
You can't get 14' metal studs in 25 ga., have to go to 20 ga. 20 ga. metal is a bear to cut with snips, unlike 25 ga. And if you get one of those cheap composition metal-cutting blades at the Big Box and put it on your 10" chop saw, you will get a lot of blade wobble - unless you touch the blade lightly to the metal stud when you start it. But don't cut from the channel side of the stud if you do this, or you'll tear your blade up in about 2 seconds, and spray yourself with the shrapnel of the disintegrating blade! (don't ask me HOW I learned this!)
This may not be accordng to Hoyle, but in an absolute pinch, cracked PVC pipe in a concrete slab can be repaired with fiberglass and polyester resin, like a boat repair - if you can get to it.
In an entry door, the tile, not the grout line, should always be centered (or as close as possible) on the door. (I don't know if this is a fact, but I learned it nonetheless.)
If you suspect a worker has a drug problem, its better to fire them before they start "tweaking" on your jobsite - it can get ugly!
Again, not sure if this is a fact or not: the foam used under Dryvit-type "synthetic stucco" is apparently considered by some as a moisture barrier, eliminating the need for building wrap in those areas where foam is used. (I'm assuming that the joints are sealed with something prior to application of the synthetic stucco.
Synthetic stucco is a 2-coat process, and sometimes the second coat is blown on, as opposed to troweled on. The first coat is called "primus", at least by the applicator I spoke with, and is what gives the finish its (minimal) strength. And it is often (maybe always?) applied without a corner bead, unlike traditional three-coat stucco.
It is the nature of construction for things to go sideways - especially the minute you turn your back on the jobsite, or take a half a day off because of sickness. I know this, but have to re-learn it daily.
"...an open mind is a powerful thing. The ability to listen to others is invaluable."
Jim Blodgett
So it sounds like you got a cheap blade, it exploded and hurt you so you had to take half a day off.
While gone, one of your helpers got high on PVC glue sniffing it and managed to crack the pipe in the foundation and mess up various other things on the job, including writing his name in the fresh Drivit.Is that about it?
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
I learned that I should buy a concertina instead of an accordion and that old Winchester chisels are a work of art as well as functional, bettering the high end new stuff of today. I've started a collection. Thanks Duane.
Coping with a grinder. I will still use the cope saw for pine and uncomplicated small stuff. It has a bit of a learning curve, but I think it's worth it.
The biggest thing..not to judge people wholly by what they say. Some of these folk who say the most idiotic things and are unbelievable hard headed political morons, are also some of the funniest, big hearted guys one would ever want to meet.
Also there are many here who profess lack of formal education beyond high school, no degrees like BA, BS, AA, LSMFT, or any of that, but they are some of the smartest people in this forum with a wonderful way with words.
They never let schooling get in the way of their education I guess.
(Actually, I take that back about not having the one degree of BS. I think that's a requirement of all to join this forum)
yesterday I learned that turning a 43-in. spindle on a lathe is tricky, because when you're working on the center of that span, it wobbles and vibrates making it hard to get a smooth finish.
consequently, I also learned that dropping the cast iron bed extension from our shop lathe** onto my forearm will make three fingers on my left hand go temporarily numb...
**the extension has to be raised and attached to the tail end of the lathe...it slipped slightly and banged my arm...thankfully I didn't drop it completely
Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
I learned about 8 years ago that I am to fat to fly. Cost me 6 months of recovery. Flight isn't bad though it is the stopping that hurst. Still try every now and then though. Tuck and roll I say.
what diameter was that spindle?
for anything under 1-1/2" or so, I use a steady rest to help support the spindle, and take out a lot of the whip.
I also find that I get less vibration when I use a skew chisel over a gouge
The spindle was finished at 1 -9/16...a stedy rest probably woudl have been a good idea, perhaps I'll learn that one another day.Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
Oneway has a real nice spindle steady ..... it;s worth the hundred bucks..." I'm working on it"
<!---->yesterday I learned that turning a 43-in. spindle on a lathe is tricky, because when you're working on the center of that span, it wobbles and vibrates making it hard to get a smooth finish. <!---->
Look at this: http://turnwood.net/projects/SteadyRest.pdf
Leon
My Dad was a master carpenter for 40 odd years. He always told my brother and I that when you think you know it all you'll screw up. In the old mans time there was not a internet so information was gained the old fashion way at the lumber yard in the morning when the "guys" would be there . The guys where the other contractors who would go there to pick up or order what they needed for that day. They were a great group who would gladly share what they knew. Coming to FineHomebuilding.com is my trip to the lumber yard. I learn and pick up things that would have taken 100 trips to the lumber yard in just one afternoon. You guys ever think of opening a lumber yard?
i learned today that just because my bid was 1/2 of the last guy's bid, the insurance co. still won't pay that much.
Lost that job.
Glenn
At least the customer liked me.
That's a plus.
Get your drywall screw splinters out at least by the end of the day they puncture your skin. I've let the current one go in my thumb for the last three days, and I can't seem to get anything out except yellow pus! Hurts like the devil, but I have a three thousand dollar deductible on my health insurance, and I don't have the time to go to the doctor anyway!!!
Also, if you put in a Delta shower valve, don't assume that there's a stop valve in it when it comes out the box; I stupidly removed the copper plug in the shower heads drop ell, and got soaked!!!
I got soaked yesterday under a bathroom vanity...hot and cold lines weren't snugged up tight to the faucet handles before I turned on the water.
Anyway...today I learned that unlike structural lumber, blocking (as in framing blocking) is shown on a set of blueprints with a / through the wood as opposed to an X.Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
Go to the drug store and get an ointment called Icthamol. It is a nasty balck looking stff but is a great drawing ointment that will pull the poison from hornets out too. Put bandage over it so it doesn't stain sheets etcMetal slivers have a tendency to burrow deeper until they get to the bone where they can cause more trouble, so get right on this before the skin closes over the top of it
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
This stuff is the BOMB!
Sticky with traction!
View Image
Today I learned that rust-resistant...not rust proof.Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
"Everybody wants to know what I’m on...
What am I on? I’m on my bike, busting my ass 6 hours a day…
...What are you on?"
- Lance Armstrong
Justin,
Is that like stainless steel is not really stain proof?
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.