
Brian Simkins is a freelance writer living in Chicago. He enjoys using his 14 years of home improvement experience to educate and equip new homeowners.
Brian's focus on DoItYourself.com has been on providing detailed How-Tos that empower even the most novice DIYer. He helps readers tackle easy fixes like "How to Replace a Doorbell" or "Shorten a Door," as well as taking them through in-depth projects like "How to Lay Tile over Concrete" or "How To Repair Leaks in Your Roof."
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 3 - Mixing and Pouring
Tips for constructing a concrete walkway....
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 4 - Screeding and Finishing
Intro - Preparation - Mixing and Pouring - Screeding and Finishing - Clean Up...
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Pouring a Concrete Walkway 1 - Intro and Materials
Make a concrete walkway following these steps....
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Guide to Building a Fireplace Mantel
In many homes, a family room setting with a fireplace is its focal point....
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Secure Doors and Windows with Simple Hardware
Here are some simple things you can do to increase the security of your home....
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Patch Wallpaper
When wallpaper is new and in good shape it can add a lot of depth, richness and character to a...
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Plan Your Exterior Painting Project
It's one of the most common home improvement jobs....
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Window Trim Tools, Materials and Terminology
The interior trim work on your windows can help define the feeling and ambiance of a room....
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When Potted Plants Need a New Home
At some point, any plant that is growing and maturing will need to move to a new, bigger pot....
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How to Replace a Doorbell
So your doorbell doesn't work....
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Sharpen a Rotary Mower Blade
Tackle your lawn with a mower in top condition....
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Repair Common Toilet Problems
Your toilet is operated by a fairly simple system of levers, floats, and seals....
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How to Install a Bathtub: Planning and Tub Options
Remodeling a bathroom requires careful planning....
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How to Install a Bathtub: Tools and Supplies
Keep time from going down the drain with the right supplies....
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Build Closet Shelving - Planning and Designing
Use your closet well with an organized shelving system....
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Install a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Install an exhaust fan and prevent mildew in your bathroom in four steps....
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Install a Slate Floor 3 - Grouting and Clean Up
Once the last pieces of tile are set, you can begin cleaning up the slate portion of your insta...
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Cabinet Refacing - Planning and Preparation
Refacing cabinets requires significant prep work....
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Cabinet Refacing 3 - Cabinet Boxes and Hardware
Inspect your material when it arrives....
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Finding the Right Type of Insulation
Choosing the right insulation for your home is important....
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Install a Slate Floor 2 - Installing the Slate
Slate tiles are durable and easy to clean....
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Custom Closet Shelving
Prebuy some components or build them yourself....
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Maintain and Weatherstrip a Garage Door
A properly maintained door will last the life of your home....
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Install a Slate Floor 1 - Inspecting the Materials
Choosing Slate as an option for hard surface flooring....
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Simple Deck Repairs
Deck repairs are common on the home maintenance list....
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Sliding Screen Door Problems and How to Fix Them
Repairing your sliding glass door is a breeze....
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Build Closet Shelving 2 - Materials and Tools
The task is always easier with the right tools and supplies....
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Dealing With Bears When Camping
Every camping trip requires basic preparation. A camping trip in bear country requires addition...