Debbie Tolle

Hunker Editorial Policies

Hunker uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding home improvement and design, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert takes and tutorials from our talented team.

As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Debbie Tolle

  • What Is The Distance Between Wall Studs?

    Stud distances is an important part of the building or remodeling process. Building codes dictate the required wall stud spacing depending on the type and location of the wall. Using the proper distances is essential to meeting building codes and getting the necessary wall support.

    Read More
  • What Is The Rake Of A Roof?

    Roofing terminology may be difficult to understand unless you are a builder or roofer. Terms are used to break down the various areas of a roof and a "rake" is one of many roof sections. The rake is not exactly on the roof. It is a term that describes the sloped sides of a gable end.

    Read More
  • How To Hide Laminate Seams

    One place where you may see seams in a laminated surface is on countertops. Laminate countertops are constructed in 12-foot lengths. When you have a longer countertop, another section must be added, which creates a seam. Seams also occur in corners where two sections of countertop meet to create an L shape.

    Read More
  • How To Texture Over An Existing Texture

    It is possible to texture over existing textured walls and ceilings as long as your existing texture has not been heavily applied. A heavily applied texture must be sanded before retexturing so that you cannot see it through the new application. Two common texture types are orange peel and knockdown.

    Read More
  • How To Change A Blade On An Angle Grinder

    Angle grinders are multi-function tools that are used in construction industries and by homeowners to cut, grind, or sand through hard materials. You can buy several types of blades for an angle grinder, depending on what material you are cutting. The most common materials are wood, concrete, and metal.

    Read More
  • How To Paint Rust Effects

    While most people are trying to figure out how to get rid of rust, there are those who like the look of it without the destructive properties. A rusted look can be accomplished by a technique known as faux finishing.

    Read More
  • How To Remove Black Stains From Wood

    Black water stains on wood are an indication that the stain has penetrated through the protective clear coat. This type of stain requires more work to remove it, but it is not impossible. Black stains are often caused by condensation from drinking glasses set on wood tables or from pet urine on hardwood floors.

    Read More
  • Deck Handrail Height & The Tennessee Building Code

    Building a deck in the state of Tennessee requires that you follow a specific set of standards for construction, which ultimately are controlled at the local level. These standards include the height for handrails. Before you can build a deck, you must obtain a permit through your local building commissioner.

    Read More
  • How To Stain OSB Panels

    OSB (oriented strand board) is similar to plywood and used primarily for subfloors, covering exterior wall studs and roofing. It is not usually stained or painted, but that doesn't mean that it can't be done. OSB used for interior and exterior projects will accept stain and clear coat sealing products.

    Read More
  • How To Calculate Thinset Quantity

    Thinset mortar is commonly used for setting ceramic tile. It is also used to set porcelain tile and natural stone tile. The amount of thinset you need is calculated by the square footage of the floor or wall, the size of the tile, and the size of notched trowel you use to spread it.

    Read More
  • How To Paint A Metal Pole Barn

    Metal pole barns are constructed of corrugated steel. While the steel panels are likely to be galvanized for rust-protection, rust can creep in around fasteners or where the galvanized coating had been compromised or worn off. Therefore, painting your barn not only adds beauty, it also helps prevent rust.

    Read More
  • Outdoor Light Fixture Repair

    Outdoor light fixtures will often at some point need repairs or need to be replaced. Globes can get broken, wiring can come loose and the fixture can become so weathered that there's no hope of repair.

    Read More
  • Bathroom Mirror Clip Removal

    Mirror clips are used to hold mirrors to a wall. They are used alone, or sometimes with mirror adhesive to ensure that the mirror cannot fall off of the wall. Removing the clips is a very easy thing to do. The only reason that it can be confusing is if you do not know where the screws are located.

    Read More
  • How To Build & Install An Exterior Door Jamb

    Building a doorjamb is a relatively easy project. You can purchase precut boards for this project, or you can purchase trim boards and cut them to size yourself. Some preformed exterior doorjamb boards will already have weather stripping attached to them.

    Read More
  • How To Read A Tape Measure

    Tape measures in the U.S. mostly utilize Imperial measurements, which means that you measure in feet, inches and fractions of inches. When using a metric tape measure, the measurements appear in centimeters, millimeters and, sometimes, meters. But not all tape measures are alike.

    Read More