Dear James: Our last house had drainage problems after storms. When we select a lot to build our new house, what steps should be taken to evaluate possible drainage issues?—Jessica R. Dear Jessica: When selecting a lot for a new house, most people think poor drainage can just make the yard muddy or harm landscaping….

Dear James: I just got out my power saws for a remodeling project and the blades are shot. What types of new blades are best for general work with circular and table saws? —Aaron M. Dear Aaron: Those two saws, along with a compound miter saw, are pretty indispensable for most remodeling projects. If an…

Dear James: Our extra bedroom has just become a junk room with stuff piled all over the place. I would like to organize it with some shelves. How can I make some inexpensive shelving? —Alan D. Dear Alan: I think any family that has an unused bedroom ends up using it for storage. It is…

Dear James: Our church has some beautiful old decorative woodwork that needs some repairs and to be refinished. What is the best way to retain the original appearance?—Karen L. Dear Karen: It is possible to bring old woodwork back to nearly its original appearance, but don’t expect to duplicate it perfectly. This will probably require…

Dear James: My clothes washer leaks a little when in the drain and spin cycles. What things should I check to locate and repair the water leak? What are some maintenance tips?—Teddy L. Dear Teddy: It is good that you noticed the leak before it got too bad. Generally, people just load the clothes in…

Dear James: The drywall tape is coming loose on the walls and in the corners, so I pulled it off. What is the correct method to retape the corners so that it stays on longer? —Pamela D. Dear Pamela: If you have ever watched a professional tape drywall, it looks easy with little sanding needed….

Dear James: I have worked with hand and power tools for years, but recently hurt myself with no one around. What things should I include in a first-aid kit for my toolshed?—Isaac L. Dear Isaac: It definitely is a good idea to have a complete first-aid kit readily available, even if you are not alone…

Dear James: My living room is adjacent to the children’s bedroom. I would like to add a door between the two rooms. How can I open and frame the new door opening?—Carla T. Dear Carla: Adding an additional opening between rooms is a relatively easy and popular project. By installing the proper type of door,…

Dear James: I bought an air compressor because I think pneumatic tools are better than electric tools. Now I need a long hose. What type of pneumatic hose is good for tools?—Juan K. Dear Juan: For many home projects, pneumatic tools are better than electric or battery-powered ones. Electric tools, and particularly battery-powered tools, are…

Dear James: A dark spot is forming on the ceiling below my master bathroom with a tile floor. My newer house is just past the warranty. Where should I look for the water leak? —Amy F. Dear Amy: It seems like problems always occur just after the new house warranty expires. The basic plumbing is…