Chip Wade - Expert Craftsman

So many people have a to-do list of home improvement projects they would like to complete, but without the right directions and materials, people can become discouraged and let these tasks fall by the wayside. I’m happy to be partnering with Dremel to provide Americans with the tool solutions, project ideas and expert advice they need to successfully cross projects off their lists for an accomplished 2011.

While my ‘Tackling America’s To-Do List’ video series will live primarily on the Dremel Facebook page, videos will also be available on the Dremel brand’s YouTube channel. Project steps highlighted in the videos will be available for download on www.Dremel.com as an easy reference for consumers seeking to start their own home improvement projects. I’ve also had a great time giving advice to DIYers on the Dremel Facebook page and hosting live chats on Twitter.

I love this ‘Tackling America’s To Do List’ stat: Men and women are motivated by different goals when approaching DIY projects. Women select projects that organize clutter (24%) while men focus on fixing broken items (14%). Dremel has tons of great info like this and project steps to help Americans tackle their top home improvement projects.

And as it’s almost fall, an ideal time to tackle a DIY project, everyone should check out the videos and more. Head here for step-by-step project instructions

By now the cold weather has struck the nation and hopefully everyone has filled all obvious cracks, checked the attic insulation, sprayed for bugs and replaced old windows. Although this last winterization tip might seem obvious, it can also be easily overlooked…

THIS IS THE TIME TO CHECK YOUR HEATER
Be proactive and insure that your heating system is going to perform when you need it. Be sure to buy a large pack of air filters as you should be changing them monthly during the heating months. If you have not had your heating system looked at by a professional in the last two years, bring him in to give it a once over. The cost of the service is balanced by the gains in efficiency and piece of mind. Finally, now could be the time to install an updated thermostat that allows you to program your heating to fit your schedule, so you are not spending money you don’t need to when you are away.

Let’s face it, it is hard to avoid the cold weather completely, but at least your home can be a warm sanctuary. Try these DIY winterization tips and let me know if you think of any additional advice to add to my list!

All of the obvious cracks in your home have been filled, you’ve
checked the attic insulation, the bugs are being kept at bay- your winterization process is going great! For my next tip, it is important to note that…

YOUR WINDOWS MAY BE LETTING MORE IN THAN THE SUNSHINE
Replacing old windows that rattle, leak or just do not insulate very well can be a scary proposition considering the potential expense and the scheduling of the installation itself. If replacement is not in your budget or schedule, consider a cost effective window winter
insulation kit. They are under $5 apiece, and go on like plastic shrink wrap. Just remember- completely cover the entire window including the trim for maximum effectiveness.

I’ve got one more tip for maximizing your winterization efforts, be sure to check back for my final step in this DIY process to beating the cold weather!

Winterization is all about keeping the warm air in and the cold air out. Have you already filled obvious cracks in your home and checked the insulation in the attic? Good. Now it’s time to follow my next tip…

KEEP THE BUGS AT BAY
We as humans are not the only animals that appreciate a warm and comfortable home in the winter. No matter how hospitable some of us may be, unwanted guests are never welcome. Don’t underestimate the damage that pests can do not just in your home, but around your home as well when left unattended for seasons at a time. Keep the rodents,
termites, ants and other insects at bay by calling in your pest control expert for their seasonal service.

In addition to helping your winterization efforts, you can eliminate a small bug problem before it turns into a bigger headache!

After you make sure to fill obvious cracks in your home, my next winterization tip is to make sure your home is not suffering from…

INSUFFICIENT ATTIC INSULATION
In the fall and winter we are heating our homes, and this expensive heated air rises to the highest point in the house. If it is not contained by sufficient insulation in the attic, we are letting precious dollars float silently away. Start by checking the areas touching heated space like your ceiling joists and walls adjacent to finished spaces. A good rule of thumb is, if you can see the framing members you are probably losing too much energy. Find out what your local recommended R-value is from your neighborhood hardware store. Check what the R-value is on your current insulation by looking on the printed paper backing or measuring the thickness if loose. Add strategically where it may be lacking.

Two tips downs and three to go- make sure you follow all of my winterization tips this blistery season!