Can you build a house with found objects?

One man's bottle cap may be another man's doorbell. Whether they're working from economic necessity, an artistic bent or environmental motivation, some people build their homes from everyday objects.

How do you replace a seal under a toilet?

A friend told me that the bad smell coming from my toilet indicates that the seal under the toilet is broken and needs to be replaced. He also said that I could probably do the job myself. I'd like to try. So how do you replace the seal underneath the toilet?

How does toxic mold make you sick?

Toxic mold spores can damage your lungs severely. Where does toxic mold come from, and how do you prevent it?

How Doorbells Work

You probably don't spend too much time pondering the inner workings of a doorbell, but it's actually a pretty cool device once you get inside. Find out exactly what happens when someone rings your bell.

How Historic Districts Work

Does your neighbor regularly display appallingly bad taste? Would you rather not live next door to a tacky, new strip mall? Historic districts could be the answer to your neighborhood woes.

How House Construction Works

Because sandpaper comes in various grades of coarseness, it's important to know which type to select for your home repair job. Find tips on this page.

How House Moving Works

Do you want to buy a house for $1? You can, if you're willing to pick it up, haul it somewhere else and finance the whole move. But is house moving more of a headache than a bargain?

How Houseboats Work

A houseboat's one way to stay at the beach. It might sound exotic, but day-to-day life on a houseboat poses some unusual challenges -- like staying afloat.

How long would it take for your house to fall completely apart?

What would happen if you stopped taking care of your house? Would it completely fall apart? How long would it take?

How Prefab Houses Work

Prefab houses are growing in popularity as larger sizes and more options become available. Learn about prefab houses and find out how they are constructed.

How Three-Way Switches Work

You probably have at least one light that is controlled by two separate switches -- either switch can turn it on or off. Find out how the light knows what to do with two sources of input.

Is your vinyl siding killing you?

Vinyl makes many consumer goods safer and more affordable. However, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) releases toxic fumes and when burned, it produces hazardous smoke.

What's the one thing you can do to increase the value of your home the most?

When you sell your home, you want to maximize its value, but be careful -- you could end up spending more than you get back. Choose your home improvement projects wisely.

Home-Repair Materials Basics

To do basic home-repair jobs, you need to know how to select building materials and how to use them. Any home-repair job should start with the right tools. Learn more about basic home-repair materials.

How Do You Replace Damaged Siding?

When clapboards or shakes are rotten or broken, your home's siding can no longer do its job. Damaged siding lets air, water, dirt, and insects through to the inside. Learn how to replace damaged siding.