Chip Wade - Expert Craftsman

I had a blast taking part in a live chat on Twitter for HGTV Magazine yesterday. I got to answer DIY and home repair questions in addition to sharing about projects around my house. Here’s a glimpse into some of the topics we covered in the chat, cleaned up for grammar and spelling since we’re typing on the fly!

We want to know what’s the most common home repair question you get?
Most of the questions I get revolve around getting the most out of your main living spaces. Like your master bedroom and kitchen.

@JaySaint Question for Chip: I’m new in town. How do I know if my contractor is any good?
Don’t hire a contractor that has only done additions to build your deck… Etc. Find someone who has built many decks you like. You always have to see work done previously by a contractor.

@sgbarber How do you recommend storing a dual cartridge respirator and after a single use?
You want to clean them and let them dry. Store in a cool dry place away from contaminants. You can even keep them in a plastic bag.
@sgbarber At 3M, we like to help remind consumers to change their furnace filters before they get too loaded.
Agreed! Changing your filter regularly helps not only your air quality but helps extend the life of your furnace.

@blueeyedrj What’s the best way to unclog the kitchen sink drain?
To unclog I always check the trap first by disconnecting it. If not blocked there, I will go do a solution…If all else fails I go to mechanical means… A plumbing snake.
@blueeyedrj same thing for toilet and tub clogs?
It’s sometimes too difficult to get to a tub trap. So I often start with the snake in the tub as it is usually hair. For the toilet, the plunger is king, then you move to the snake…. But try to sucker your spouse into doing that one!

How do you get windows open that are painted shut?
You first want to wait for a low humidity day so the windows are contracted. Relieve all perimeter paint with a razor and gently tap till open.

What are the 5 tools no homeowner can be without?
Loaded question… I love tools, but every home owner should have a quality cordless drill set, tape measure, circ saw, Sander, set of pliers.

As many of you know, DIY projects can be quite a workout if they involve lifting heavy materials, operating powerful machinery or holding a position for long periods of time.

Personal fitness has always been important to me for obvious health benefits and for strength when it comes to building structures and remodeling projects. It also helps to be nimble and in-shape when your young son starts becoming increasingly energetic!

Well, I’m proud to say that I recently passed my certification and can now add “personal trainer” to my resume- I guess all those workouts in hotel gyms while traveling have finally paid off.

I got some upcoming work that will help me to showcase my love of exercise and living an active lifestyle that I can’t wait to share. Until then, remember this: stretch before and after every workout!

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Happy Holidays all the way from Tahoe! It’s been an incredibly busy year and I finally have a chance to enjoy some of this beautiful winter weather. Hope everyone is enjoying the cold months as much as I am, follow my official @chipwade Twitter stream for even more updates.

Speaking of winter weather, I hope that the winterization tips I offered on this blog are helping you keep the cold at bay. A little foresight will help keep your home warm and maximize what you receive in return for your energy costs.

Also, I’ve just started posting the video recaps of the SmartStrand Zoo Challenge and the footage is very impressive. Check back later this week because the best videos are coming up…

I want to give a big thanks to everyone who visits my blog and leaves feedback about the projects, products, and events I am a part of- I hope you are having as much DIY fun as I am!

For everyone hip to the one of the newest and largest social networks (and for those who want to be), I have created my own Twitter profile with instant updates and pictures for my followers. My profile name is @chipwade and I have to admit, this is pretty fun.

Whether I’m building a brand new sign for Turner Classic Movies (the above photo) or simply surveying a project in the developing stages, I can upload images as “TwitPics” for everyone to see. Most smart phones even have apps that will enable you to have Twitter access on your cell.

Of course, continue to check this blog for your best source of info, but Twitter is another great way to be informed. Happy Tweeting!