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Black ants are a nuisance, but carpenter ants can be a serious problem. Getting rid of each may require slightly different methods, so it's important to know which ants you have. Identifying them is not hard, but a magnifying glass can make it easier to view their distinguishing features.
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Hornets and yellow jackets are similar, but they're not exactly the same. It's a good idea to be wary of both since either can pack a nasty punch if you disturb their nests, even if you've done so by accident. Both of these insects are beneficial, however, so don't call the exterminator too quickly.
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When planning a landscape project, you may wonder, "How much is a yard of topsoil"? Topsoil costs vary across the country, averaging between $12 and $55 per cubic yard. Purchasing topsoil in bulk is more cost-effective than buying it in bags.
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Panting a ceramic tile floor can be an affordable way to spruce it up. New paints now make the job much easier than it was before, eliminating the need for all the sanding and prep work. Now, a good cleaning is all it takes to get your floor ready for paint.
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Laundry symbols may seem hard to decipher, but if you learn just a few of the basics, you'll get a better understanding of the laundry rules in a snap.
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White water mold is a funguslike organism with chlorine resistance, and pink slime is a bacterium. Both can be eliminated by heavily shocking the water and cleaning the pool and filter.
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It's time to regrout bathroom tiles when the old grout gets damaged or moldy. Grout is an important part of protecting your tile and preventing damage to the wall or floor behind the grout. Keeping it in good shape can save you money in the long run by keeping your bathroom protected.
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The bathroom vanity light height affects how well the lighting works and how well you can see your face when you look in the mirror. If you install task lighting at a bad height, the lights can cast shadows across your face, which makes it tough to see when you're getting ready.
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It's likely your grandma uses ammonia in laundry — but what exactly does it do? Here's how to use it properly (and safely) in your laundry routine.
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A dehumidifier is an appliance that removes excess moisture from the air. These units come in different sizes and have a variety of features. Choose a dehumidifier capacity based on the dampness and size of the space.
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Learning how to wash towels properly keeps them soft and fluffy for wrapping yourself in after a shower. Good laundry practices will also help your towels last longer.
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It's a good idea to learn how to separate laundry. Laundry should be separated not only by color but also by fabric type and, in some cases, by weight or texture. Proper sorting can extend the life of your clothes.
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Although many consumers are unaware, fiberglass mattresses have been on the market for years. They are generally safe when in good condition but can pose some health risks as they age and deteriorate.
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There are times when having a sanitize cycle on your washing machine is super convenient. You don't want to use this setting on every load, however, since some fabrics won't tolerate this cycle. learn how to use the sanitizing cycle — and why it's important.
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Wondering how to dispose of old furniture? You have several options, including repurposing the piece or donating it to someone else who needs it. You can throw it away as well, but your trash collector probably won't take it for you. You may have to deliver the piece to the landfill yourself.
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Are you wondering how to dispose of ashes? Firepit and fireplace ashes can be reused for a variety of projects around the house and garden to boost soil alkalinity and deter slugs and snails.
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Want to keep your artificial tree looking great for Christmases to come? Here's a step-by-step guide to how to store an artificial Christmas tree so that you can easily recreate your winter wonderland year after year.
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Pungent Vicks VapoRub may seem to ease a stuffy nose and the miseries of a cold, but you should think twice about adding Vicks VapoRub to your humidifier. Doing so can ruin the appliance, and it isn't safe for babies.
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Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are both very helpful appliances, but each has a unique purpose. It's important to understand which one you need and what to look for when shopping for each.
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A compost bin is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and feed your plants for free. Whether you have a huge property with several acres or live in an apartment with only a small balcony, there's a compost bin that will work for you and your plants.
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The USDA plant hardiness zone map is an extremely useful gardening tool for determining what plants will survive in your climate. Learn more about how this tool can help you while you're picking out plants and planning your garden.
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When you're ready to install a new one, you might need to know how to remove a Honeywell thermostat first. The process is simple if you keep the wiring straight.
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A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air along with some odors trapped within it. A dehumidifier is not an air purifier, but dehumidifier odor removal can be an inexpensive way to make a big difference in your home.
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As a pool owner, you will need to know how far to drain an above-ground pool for winter or how far to drain an in-ground pool for winter. Both should be partially drained as part of the pool winterization process. This makes room for the water to expand as it freezes so it doesn't damage the pool.
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Winterizing a swimming pool involves preparing the water, cleaning and draining the pump and water lines, covering the pool, and storing the equipment. Learn more about how to winterize a pool to save money — and make your backyard oasis have more longevity.
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If you've recently taken an interest in succulent plants, know that there are lots of succulents for beginners. Many thrive on neglect, making them perfect for those who are new to container gardening. Find out which succulents are the best for beginning gardeners.
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The best time to plant vegetables depends on the specific vegetables you wish to plant and where you live. Some veggies need warm weather, while others must complete their growth cycle before the temperatures get too hot. Learn more about the best time to plant vegetables in your USDA zone.
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