How to Repair Concrete Around an Ejector Pump

A small, inexpensive trowel will be useful as you repair the concrete.

An ejector pump is used when installing a water-using device — such as a commode — in a basement not already plumbed for it. A basin similar to a sump basin is set into the floor and the ejector pump forces the material inside it up to the home's sewer pipes. If you must break a hole in the concrete floor to install the basin, repair will be needed to restore the integrity of the floor and to make it look good.

How to Fix a Collapsed Recliner

Check for loose joints often to keep your recliner in shape.

If you would rather not replace your collapsed recliner, check for the source of the collapse, such as a broken base frame or loose joints. You might need the help of a friend or family member who is knowledgeable about furniture repairs if you find you must replace the recliner base. However, most other repairs can be performed by just about anyone.

How to Build Small Front Steps Between Stone Walls

The sides of the steps should touch the sides of the walls.

Building a set of stairs between two stone walls isn't really harder than building stairs set away from stone walls, except that the size of the stairs will be limited by the width between the two walls. As long as you can lift concrete blocks and stones, you should be able to complete this project. If you have back problems, consider hiring a contractor or at least asking a friend to help you.

How Much Drain Tile Do I Need for Rain Gutters?

Gutters send water to downspouts, where drain tiles carry it away.

Rain water flows from the roof to gutters and discharges through downspouts. Drain-tile can be connected to the downspout to direct the water away from the house, and protect the foundation from moisture. Drain tile, or pipe, is sold in lengths, and estimating the quantity needed is a simple calculation based on taking a linear measurement of the area.

How to Attach Roof Joists to Walls

When building a home, it is important to properly secure the roof joists to the walls when framing the house. In general, roof joists are secured to the walls with specially designed metal straps. These straps help secure the roof to the house during harsh weather, such as hurricanes. It is not necessary to hire a professional contractor to install the metal straps. You can install hurricane straps yourself with just a few basic tools.

How to Mount a Mailbox on HardiPlank

Mounting a mailbox to Hardiplank only requires simple tools.

Many homeowners upgrade their outside panel siding to James Hardie's HardiPlank brand. This siding choice is made of fiber cement which is extremely durable and long lasting to weather the cold and hot seasons. However, some homeowners would also like to attach a mailbox to the HardiPlank surface. Specific tools and preparation will help make a mailbox mounting project look professional, as well as retaining the HardiPlank's structural integrity.

How to Grind a Head Off of a Bolt With a Dremel

You can cut the heads off bolts with rotary tools.

Rotary tools such as the Dremel have allowed do-it-yourselfers around the world to pick up projects that otherwise would have required a specialist. One of those jobs is grinding the head off a bolt. All you need is some spare time, the right attachment for the Dremel and some basic carpentry tools, along with a work space, and you can quickly and easily grind the heads off as many bolts as you need to finish your project.