Skip to Content

Melissa Hawkins

Contributing Author

Published articles: 118


Melissa is our top Home Improvement Expert and Senior Editor. She loves writing about kitchen remodeling, plumbing, gardening and power tools. She can turn every home task into a masterpiece.

Problems With Dented Water Heater: How To Solve Them?

The outer surface of a water heater gets dented quite easily. But the problem arises when the dents are near water connections. If the dents are deep, it can cause trouble to the water heater. What are the problems that arise due to a dented water heater? A dented water heater can create leaks in …

Read More about Problems With Dented Water Heater: How To Solve Them?

Gas Meter Making Whistling Noise: Everything You Need To Know

Noisy home appliances are always annoying. It becomes even more worrisome when it comes to sensitive appliances like gas meters. You must be concerned about this noise. Why is your gas meter making a whistling noise? Gas approaches the valve, which reduces pressure at an enormous speed. That’s when it makes the noise. The valve …

Read More about Gas Meter Making Whistling Noise: Everything You Need To Know

Does Ground Wire Have To Be The Same Gauge? [Explained]

There are always some misconceptions and confusion about the grounding wire. You’ll find yourself asking if the ground wire is the same as hot and neutral wire. Working with these wires requires proper knowledge about them. Does ground wire have to be the same gauge? The answer is yes. The ground wire, hotwire, and neutral …

Read More about Does Ground Wire Have To Be The Same Gauge? [Explained]

Split Receptacle GFCI: Is It Possible To Do So?

Bamboozled by how to shift from a split receptacle to a GFCI? Well, don’t worry we’re here to answer this specific question. Is it possible to shift to a split receptacle GFCI from a normal GFCI? Yes, you can turn a GFCI into a split receptacle outlet. However, it is a bit complicated as it …

Read More about Split Receptacle GFCI: Is It Possible To Do So?

How To Get Rid Of Brown Stain In Bottom Of Toilet Bowl

Nothing is unpleasant than a toilet bowl with persistent brownish stains at the bottom. For some of us, no matter what we do, it just won’t come off. That’s because you’re not using the right products and methods.  How can you get rid of the brown stain on the bottom of the toilet bowl? You …

Read More about How To Get Rid Of Brown Stain In Bottom Of Toilet Bowl

How To Fix Pinholes In Grout [2 Simple Ways]

You have finally finished grouting your tiles. One more day and it settles down pretty nicely until it doesn’t. There are pinholes on the grouts all over.  How to fix pinholes on the grout? First, dampen the pinholes with water. Use your finger to press some new grout mixture into them afterward. Another option is …

Read More about How To Fix Pinholes In Grout [2 Simple Ways]

Running Ductwork Perpendicular To Joists [2-Step Manual]

Excited to refurbish your home, only to realize that plumbing work is a pain? Well, chances are you’re facing difficulties in running pipework through your joists. Are you planning on running ductwork perpendicular to joists? If the answer is yes, there are rules to follow. You have to follow sequential steps such as planning before …

Read More about Running Ductwork Perpendicular To Joists [2-Step Manual]

Water Dripping From Ductwork In The Basement [5 Common Problems With Easy Solutions]

It’s quite an annoying problem that ductwork is leaking. It can cause severe problems for floors or walls. You must know the reasons behind it. You can also fix some problems that will save you money. The question is, why is water dripping from ductwork in the basement?   “Sweating” is the main reason for the …

Read More about Water Dripping From Ductwork In The Basement [5 Common Problems With Easy Solutions]

Shower Diverter Fell Out? Here’s How You Can Fix It

Although it’s pretty rare, sometimes a shower diverter may fall out all of a sudden. When this happens, you have to get it fixed or replaced.  What can you do after your shower diverter fell out?  Well, if you have a front-end diverter spout, you can simply replace a new diverter stem. You can also …

Read More about Shower Diverter Fell Out? Here’s How You Can Fix It

Tub Rough Opening Too Big or Small: A Complete Guide

Without a proper rough-in space a tub will not fit properly. Also, too much rough opening will create a gap between the wall and the tub. But sitting around isn’t going to solve the problem. You’ve to take the necessary steps as soon as possible.  But what to do if the tub’s rough opening is …

Read More about Tub Rough Opening Too Big or Small: A Complete Guide