Blog Archives - Page 3 of 7

How to Clean Tree Sap off Windows: The Complete Guide

David Engle | Last Updated: November 23, 2020

Now most of us may harbor an undying love for maple syrup, the tree sap of the sugar maple tree. But did you know that all trees produce such sap?

Although it’s the lifeblood of trees, sticky tree sap can quickly turn into a nightmare if it comes into contact with anything. If you’ve got some on your windows, fret not.

We’ll show you how to clean tree sap off windows the easiest way!

Got a few minutes to spare? Then let’s hop into the details on how you can get your windows squeaky clean. Ready? Let’s go.

How to clean tree sap off windows?

Have you ever parked your car under a shady tree only to find your windshield covered in tree sap? Or perhaps, it’s the tree growing in your garden that is leaking sap on your window panes.

Whatever may be the case, tree saps can be extremely annoying to remove due to their sticky and persistent nature. However, if you know the right removal techniques, then this becomes a breeze.

Now we have assembled some easy DIY methods through which you can get rid of this problem easily. Hence, read on and pick whichever option sounds the easiest to you

Option 1: Rubbing Alcohol

Although most of us know rubbing alcohol as a common antiseptic, you’d be surprised to know the uses it can have around the house.

You may even give a shot at using rubbing alcohol to hide urine stains from black light.

Let’s look at the steps you’ll need to get started.

Step 0: Get these essentials first

Let’s take a quick glance at what items you’ll need to finish these-

Step 1: Wear safety gear

Whenever you use rubbing alcohol in large amounts, always make sure that you wear protective gear.

This is because when rubbing alcohol is in contact with your skin for a long period of time, it can cause sensitivity.

Wear a pair of latex gloves and you can be free of all worries.

Step 2: Soak microfiber cloth in rubbing alcohol

Next, take a microfiber cloth and soak it in rubbing alcohol. Depending on how much tree sap you must remove, the amount of rubbing alcohol will vary.

A general tip would be to use enough rubbing alcohol and soak the dried tree sap. Keep this on for a while until the tree sap starts to loosen

Step 3: Scrub away the tree sap

After it’s lost its sticky texture, wipe off the tree sap from the glass with a microfiber cloth. Make sure that there’s no residue left and repeat the process until it’s entirely clean.

Scrubbing is a great way to get any kind of dirt off. Whether it comes to cleaning mineral spirit spill or tree sap, this is an easy and effective remedy.

Also, make sure that you don’t scrub too hard or you could end up scratching your glass.

Step 4: Clean with soap and water

Last but not the least, give the windows a quick clean up with some warm soapy water.

Not only will it remove any residual tree sap, but soap water is also great for removing fingerprint dust. Using this will give your windows a clean and fresh shine.

Option 2: Ice

Probably the easiest method on the list, let’s see how you can remove tree sap with ice. This method is great for removing fresh tree sap that hasn’t dried just yet.

Step 0: Gather these items

A bag of ice
Gloves
Plastic knife

That’s all you’ll require. Could it get any easier? We don’t think so. Let’s go over the steps together now.

Step 1: Place a bag of ice on the tree sap

Firstly, take a plastic bag and fill it with a few ice cubes. Place this on top of the plant sap and hold it in place until the sap starts to harden.

While you do this, make sure that you wear gloves to protect yourself from ice burn. After all, nobody enjoys their hands going all numb.

Step 2: Wait for the sap to harden

After you hold it in place for a few minutes, you will start to notice that the sap is slowly hardening.

Now’s a time to be patient. Keep doing this until you see that the tree sap can be removed easily. If it’s taking a while, then you may want to get a fresh bag of ice.

Step 3: Scrape off the tree sap

After the sap has hardened, now is a great time to remove it off by scraping. To do this, use a plastic knife so as to not damage the glass.

Gently do such and use ice again if any spots are hard to remove. Repeat the process and you’ll have your windows all clean in no time!

Word of Caution

Now here’s what a lot of us don’t want to hear. Take all DIY methods with a pinch of salt.

After all, if you use corrosive materials like acetone, it could cause discoloration to your window paint.

Moreover, whenever you’re cleaning any glass, never use metal substances to scrape dirt or sap off. This could lead to permanent damage.

If these DIY’s seem like a bit of a hassle for you, you could always call for professional help.

After all, with the storm of cool tools like water spot removers for glass, there’s plenty of options in the market to clean tree sap off windows.

You could even buy a cleaner which is specially formulated for cleaning tree sap.

Takeaway

Well, that’s about it from us on the topic. Always remember, the faster you work with the problem, the quicker you can solve it.

If you enjoyed reading our tips and tricks on how to clean tree sap off windows, don’t forget to let us know.

Until then, stay happy and healthy!

How to Clean up Mineral Spirits Spill at Home

David Engle | Last Updated: November 23, 2020

Worked with mineral spirit and accidentally spilled some all over? Well, we all make mistakes.

Now although you can’t reverse the accident, don’t lose hope. We’ll show you how to clean up mineral spirits spill, with the least fuss possible. All you’ll need is some water, mild soap, and a few handy devices.

Sounds fun? Well if that piqued your interest, then you’ll definitely enjoy what we have in store for you.

Without wasting another second, let’s dive right in!

What are mineral spirits made of?

Now before we try to clean the mineral spirit spill, let us first take a look at what mineral spirits are made up of. Why do you ask?

Well, only a foolish general would rush into battle without an appropriate strategy. Attempting to clean it off without knowing what it’s made of could make the situation way worse.

Let’s have a look-

In layman terms, mineral spirits are a petroleum distillate. This means that it’s a hydrocarbon solvent that is produced from crude oil. Mineral spirits are widely used to remove grease and clean machinery parts.

On top of that, Mineral spirits can also be used for cleaning, dissolving and thinning paints. You can also use it to dissolve gum from carpet and other sticky things like tape.

If you’re wondering whether mineral spirits have any color, they don’t. However, they do have a distinctive smell like that of kerosene. Also, they’re highly inflammable and super corrosive.

Before you work with mineral spirits, you must always keep in mind that it’s highly toxic and poisonous for you. Inhaling it by mistake could lead to mineral spirit poisoning.

The same rule applies if you accidentally get some mineral spirit on your skin. Since it’s an extremely powerful liquid, it could very easily lead to a chemical burn depending on the amount you’ve spilled.

Now that we have an idea on this topic, let’s see how we can remove this mineral spirit spill from virtually anything.

How to clean up mineral spirit spill?

Now that, you’ve spilled some mineral spirit on your skin. Or perhaps it’s the carpet you’ve stained by accidentally knocking over the bottle. Wrong? Then it must be a wooden floor or board that you’ve spilled the mineral spirit on.

No matter what the case may be, there are a few simple steps that you must follow to ensure minimal damage. Let’s take a look at them all.

Step 1: Assemble necessary items

Here’s a list of products that we recommend you buy. That way, you’ll have everything you need in hand and be able to act fast.

Just like having a good water spot remover for glass, these investments too will be well worth it!

Remember that when you have an accidental spill like this, often time isn’t on your side. So, the faster you act, the better chance you have at damage control. Let’s take a glance at the list.

Step 2: Wash the area with water

Whenever you have a spill of such a sort, the first thing you want to do is flood the area with water. Whether it comes to cleaning tree sap off windows or removing mineral spirits, this step is an absolute must.

Moreover, this is also a great way to reduce the severity of a chemical burn in case you spill some on your skin. Next, use a mild soap to clean the oily substance from your skin.

But if it’s a carpet or wooden floor that you’ve soaked, then use a hose or power washer to give the area a good wash.

Step 3: Use a water claw

If you’re wondering what a water claw is, it’s what dreams are made of. Especially if your dream consists of clean carpets. Even if you’re concerned about getting rid of fingerprint dust off surfaces, a water claw is an absolute lifesaver.

This device extracts both water and dirt out of your carpet. Since the mineral spirit is an oily substance, when you spray water on it, the oil floats above it.

Preview	Product
	Water Claw Sub Spot Remover Tool For Extractors	Buy on Amazon

After drenching the surface with water, use a water claw to remove the mineral spirit altogether.

Step 4: Use a mild soap

Last but not the least, use a mild soap to clean off any residual mineral spirit. Soap and water are also a good way to hide urine stains from black light.

At this point, you’ll also be able to assess the damage.

If you have spilled it on a wooden surface, then it may need some sanding at this point.

How to dispose of mineral spirits?

Now at this point, we know that mineral spirits are pretty unsafe for you and the environment. If you breathe in the fumes then it can lead to poisoning.

Before you go, keep in mind to never flush away the leftover mineral spirit. This could lead to groundwater poisoning! Also, it’s not a good idea to dump them in your backyard as it could kill vegetation.

How to dispose of mineral spirits? – you ask. You can always give away extra spirit to a local art school or construction co-op.

But if your mineral spirit can’t be used anymore, then it’s best to get some help. If your city has a hazardous waste center, then contact them to get the job done.

If that still doesn’t sound good enough, you could always contact your local landfill. Just remember to pour the mineral spirit on some cat litter. This will make it less harmful and potent.

Bottom line

And that is a wrap on this topic! Just remember to act fast whenever you have a spill of this sort, and you can greatly reduce your damage.

If you enjoyed reading our post on how to clean up mineral spirits spill, don’t forget to comment down below.

Also, if you’ve had a similar experience then we’d love to hear from you. Until then, stay safe, and don’t forget, “prevention is always better than cure”!

Homemade Car Lift Plans: Everything You Need To Know

David Engle | Last Updated: October 8, 2020

Budget matters.

Hence, if you’re on a budget then it’s normal that you won’t want to spend a lot on the car lifts. That said, conventional car lifts do cost a lot. And, if you’re looking to add in more weight on the lifting tool than the cost may go up even higher.

Here’s why building a homemade car lift can save the day. These DIY car lifts will ensure that you’re getting all the benefits of a normal car lift. And, the best part is that it’ll keep the costs down.

However, there’s an issue-

Homemade car lifts aren’t easy to make. And, if you mess up the structure of the lift then it won’t stay strong throughout its operation. Thus, homemade car lift plans are essential to ensure that the lifting tool is tough and effective.

And, you’re at the right place as we’ve prepared everything for you in this article. Here, we’ve provided a complete idea about the plans for a homemade car lift. Moreover, there’s an FAQ session, in the end, to make things even easier.

Sounds interesting? Let’s begin right away-

How A Homemade Car Lift Functions

Even though some might know the definition of a homemade car lift, many don’t know how it functions. So, before knowing- how to build a car lift, it’s essential to determine how it works.

That said, how does it actually function?

Well, homemade car lifts are normally made of rigid and tough materials. Here, the structure is durable so that it can withstand the load of most cars. But, most importantly, the complete process is cheaper than the conventional car lifts.

So, when you’ll make this car lifts for yourself, you’ll end up saving some cash as well. Generally, DIY-lifts are made by keeping the type of cars into consideration. Thus, if you have a larger vehicle, you’ll need to take preparations differently.

Basically, homemade car lifts work by lifting the cars from the ground. In fact, they work similarly to conventional car lifts. And, it provides similar benefits as the benefits of car lifts as well.

How To Make A Car Lift? – 5 Step-Step Process

Before starting with the step-step processes, it’s essential that you have the DIY car lift design ready. Having prior preparation will make work even easier.

Besides, you’ll need to have a bit of information in your hand before starting the work. Here, you’ll have to ensure the correct distance of the lifting tool from the ground. Moreover, you’ll need to set plans based on the type of car you have.

After taking in all this preparation, you’ll be ready to start with the step-step process. So, without any further ado, let’s begin right away-

Tools You’ll Need

Well, before starting, you’ll need some tools for the job. But, don’t worry, all of these tools are available and affordable. So, let’s take a look-

Car Scale.
Measurement Tool.
Drill.
Welding Machine.

Step #1: Taking Right Measurements

Yes, it’s essential that you take in the right measurements before starting the DIY car lift plans. But, why is this an issue?

Well, if you don’t take the right measurements then you’ll fail to identify the correct distance. And, taking the wrong distance will result in the weak structure of the car lift. As a result, you’ll have to start the work from the start again.

So, it’s better to take in the correct measurements when you’re building a car lift. Here, take the measurement tool and select the width and height of the car. Also, you’ll have to measure the distance between the wheels.

On the other hand, you’ll have to even measure the weight of the car. Just use the car scale and it’ll determine the correct weight of the car.

Step #2: Determining The Car Type

Well, we’ve already mentioned this point before. Before you build a car lift, it’s essential to know what type of car you have. This is because, if you have a larger vehicle then smaller car lifts won’t work on it.

Also, having a larger vehicle means you’ll have to build the lift with tougher materials. So, it’s essential that you determine the car type.

Lastly, identify how much weight the tires of the car carry on them equally. This little calculation will come handy in the following steps.

Step #3: Choosing Right Materials

Before starting your work, it’s essential that you identify what materials you’ll need for the DIY vehicle lift. Here, steel is considered the right material for building a DIY home-built car lift. But, why?

Well, steel has the most toughness. So, it won’t get damaged easily. Also, it’ll make sure that the construction of the lift is sturdy. Furthermore, it’ll ensure that the lift doesn’t wobble.

In the end, lift maintenance becomes much easier when steel construction is used. So, make sure you’re choosing the right materials.

Step #4: Starting Calculation & Making Blueprints

First things first, take in enough information and begin right away. Select the design that you want to go for. Then sketch out the diagram of the homemade hydraulic car lift.

After this, go ahead and start making some serious blueprints of your work. If you want you can take the help of any tools to do the work.

Step #5: Starting The Construction Process

By now, you’ll be over with all the preparation and information regarding the homemade vehicle lift. Now, it’s time to start working on your project. So, firstly, start building the desired construction.

Use the drills and welding machine in order to make your design come into life. By using the right tools, you’ll be able to give your car lift a solid construction.

Lastly, test it out to check whether all the materials have sat together. You can also check whether the lift is wobbling or not. After you test it out, it’s now time to use it for operation.

FAQs

How much higher can car jacks go?

Car jacks can go up to 13-25 inches. But some jacks have the range of going up to even 6 feet.

Is it possible to raise a car higher than usual?

Yes, it’s possible to raise a car higher than usual. Here, you’ll have to raise the suspension of the car in order to raise it.

Can coilovers raise a car?

Yes, coilovers can raise a car.

What’s the price of a conventional car lift?

Normal car lifts can cost from $500-$1000. But the price can depend on brand reputation and availability as there are different types of car lifts.

Bottom Line

Well, that’s been it for the article. Hopefully, we’ve given a complete idea of the homemade car lift plans.

In the end, you’ll be able to build your own car lift by following the information of this article. And, if you’re still confused then go get help from a professional. But, do remember to follow all the steps correctly. Otherwise, the car lift won’t work.

So, why don’t you try it yourself? Goodbye for now!

Preparing Your Yard for a New Swing Set

David Watts | Last Updated: October 6, 2020

A swing set is a real joy of childhood and is a place for kids to play and imagine. It can be a great source of treasured memories. If you want to give your kids the gift of a well-constructed swing set, it all begins with preparation. It will enhance the enjoyment of the swing set and ensure your children’s safety. Getting your yard ready is an essential step.

This guide will help you create a safe space for your children to enjoy their new swing set. Following these simple steps and tips, you will ensure your children’s excellent experience that they will cherish for a lifetime. And it will also give you the peace of mind that they will be doing so safely.

Select the Location

Finding the right location for the swing set is critical for safety and enjoyment. Check for these obstacles:

Underline utilities and sprinkler pipes. The best thing to do is contact local services to have them check for underground wiring or pipes. The last thing you want is to hit one of these and either cause injury or must pay the cost to fix the damages.
Overhead power lines, roof overhangs, and tree limbs. These can be substantial safety hazards if they should fall on or around the swing set. They could potentially cause injury or death.

Your swing set should be far away from potentially dangerous obstacles. Think of things on the ground in your yard that could be a safety hazard, such as large rocks or yard equipment.

The set needs at least six feet of open space in every direction, measured from the equipment’s edge. Be sure to include enough space to place a protective layer in front and behind swings. When possible, keep bare-metal platforms and slides out of the direct sun. Metal can get extremely hot in direct sunlight and can cause burns when in use.

Determine Your Swing Set

When you know the space available for the swing set, it’s time to pick out the equipment. You can find sets in wood, metal, and vinyl-coated wood. While all these materials offer a high level of durability, there are some drawbacks to each. Wood requires more maintenance to ensure resistance to rot over time. Metal, while less maintenance is needed, can be uncomfortable in hotter climates. Vinyl-coated wood is more durable than ordinary wood but can be prone to rot that you will not be able to see.

Select a set that has a five-foot deck to maximize the time your kids can use the equipment. A shorter deck makes it less attractive as kids grow taller. Choose designs that will grow with your kids but aren’t dangerous for them at their current age. For example, climbing walls aren’t recommended for children four years or below.

Our Recommended Swing Set For Your Kids

789 Reviews

FITNESS REALITY KIDS ‘The Ultimate’ 8 Station Sports Series Metal Swing Set

8 fun activity stations that will keep 9 kids busy at the same time. Kids...
Includes a 36" Trampoline, a 32" Flying saucer, a slide, a glider, a monkey...
2" Powder coated tubular steel construction. Each station has 80lbs weight...
Meets ASTM (American Society for Testing and materials) safety standards....
Designed for children between the ages of 3 and 8 years old. Product...

Level Space

A level surface ensures the playset won’t tip over during rigorous play. Plus, it provides that you install the equipment properly. For example, if you set up a swing set with a tube slide, and the bottom of the slide is lower than the rest of the equipment, it can put excess pressure on the slide structure.

Measure and mark the playground area with wooden stakes and tie string or twine to the stakes to create a perimeter.
Use a carpenter level to ensure the strings are level, adjusting the stakes as needed.
Use a shovel to remove grass and dirt from inside the perimeter, beginning at the highest point.
Gauge the depth from the twine to the base of the hole. The depth depends on what type of absorbent material you are using.
Use the level at several points around the base to ensure that it is level.

Choose Your Protective Surface Material

Natural grass is not enough protection under swing sets. Experts recommend using sand, pea gravel, wood mulch, rubber mulch, or surface mats instead. Most should be installed at a minimum of nine inches deep.

Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, rubber mulch is excellent because it doesn’t decompose. However, it needs to be 12 to 20 inches deep for proper protection. Check each option to determine which one works best for your situation.

Anchor the Swing Set

The last consideration is how you are going to anchor the swing set into the ground. An unanchored set is in danger of tipping over. And always anchor your swing set before laying down the protective layer.

Most wood swing sets that come as kits include an anchoring solution. You drive or screw the anchors into the ground and secure the equipment to those anchors. If you are building a custom set, you can purchase anchoring kits and brackets separately.

With these easy steps, your kids will be safe while they enjoy their new swing set.

Best Selling Items

Bestseller No. 1

Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Wooden Swing Set

Bestseller No. 2

XDP Recreation Free N' Swing Swing Set, Gray

Galvanized Steel Frame with 5-Year Warranty; 5 play stations allows up to 7 Kids can play at once

Bestseller No. 3

Beach Front All Cedar Wooden Swing Set

A Full List of Different Types of Locks and How to Pick Them

David Engle | Last Updated: July 5, 2020

In this modern age, locks are an absolute necessity of our daily life. We use these things to protect our valuables. Although locks have been there for more than 6,000 years.

However, locks have upgraded a lot since then and so have the securing manners of apartments and homes. Now there are various types of locks available on the market.

So, if you want to know more about the different types of locks and how to pick them, then you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll briefly talk about 5 different locks and how you can pick them. So, without further delay, let’s start.

5 Different Types of Locks and How to Pick Them

There are various locks available in the market. Now if you think that you use one pick for all kinds of locks, well, you’re wrong. So, let’s go through the different kinds of locks one-by-one.

1. Pin Cylinder Locks

Pin cylinder locks are one of the oldest locking mechanisms available. It has a simple working mechanism.

You need to rotate the central core or plug to open the lock. A series of pins prevent the central core from turning.

You see, the pins are put in pairs, the driver pin(top), and the key pin(bottom). So, where you insert the correct key, the pairs of pins line up with the edge of the central core.

Finally, it makes the plug turn and the lock is opened. These paired lines are called the ‘Shear Line’.

How to Pick Pin Cylinder Locks?

For picking a pin cylinder lock, you need to get the paired pins in a line. As pin cylinder locks are widely used all over the world, there are lots of tools and techniques for picking them.

Although, there are mainly two techniques-

● Single Pin Picking

You have to pick each of the pins individually in the single pin picking method. Even though it takes a lot of time to learn it, it’s the most successful technique.

● Raking

In the raking technique, you pick all the pins at the same time. If you’re a beginner, it can be the perfect technique for you.

2. Lever Locks

As long as home or apartment locks are concerned, the lever locks are the most used kind after pin locks. A lever lock has a series of levers that need to be pushed at the right height to get unlocked.

The keys of this lock are teethed. These teeth simultaneously push the levers into the right position and unlock the lock.

How to Pick Lever Locks?

Simply put, you may face two kinds of situations when you unlock a lever lock. You’ll either get a simple mechanism with some bent wires or you’ll need a special tool for the sake of setting up the lock.

Some of the examples are:

Multi-Gauge Curtain Lock Pick
2 in 1 Lever lock pick

However, you’ll need specific tools if you have to pick a more advanced lever lock.

3. Wafer Locks

Wafer locks are not that popular compared to pin locks and lever locks. But don’t think that people aren’t using them. You see, these locks are used in many cars.

Although, you may have seen them on drawers, some padlocks, and lockers.

Wafer locks and pin locks work quite similarly. It has a series of flat wafers in place, preventing the lock from unlocking unless you insert the right key.

However, each of the wafers inside the lock is an individual part. Whereas in pin locks, each of the pins has two or more parts.

How to Pick Wafer Locks?

As wafer locks and pin locks are quite similar, you can use the same pick sets for them. So, you can call it Single Wafer Picking like the Single Pin Picking.

However, they are some specific tools for wafer locks. They have both functions of the tension tool and the raking tool.

Here are some examples:

Lock Jigglers
Wafer Rakes

Although, there are some advanced tools that are specifically made for car locks.

4. Warded Locks

Warded locks have been around since ancient Rome. You won’t see these locks nowadays. They’re mostly used on historic estates to maintain their original look.

You see, warded locks are not really locked. You’ll be able to unlock the mechanism if you can somehow access the back of the lock. This is the main reason people stopped using these locks.

How to Pick Warded Locks?

The metal barriers or wards are what stops someone to get to the back of the lock. You see, other locks have pins or wafers whereas a warded lock only has barriers that won’t let you access the turning mechanism.

So, removing everything but the turner from the key will let you easily unlock the mechanism.

Even though most warded locks can be picked with some bent wire, there is a tool available. A warded lock pick will let you pick any warded lock quite easily.

5. Disc Detainer Locks

In 1907, disc detainer locks were invented by Emil Henriksson. Later on, he started manufacturing the locks under the brand name Abloy.

Disc detainer locks have rotating discs, rotating like tumblers with the right key. Moreover, it won’t unlock unless all the slots have been aligned.

How to Pick Disc Detainer Locks?

Disc detainer locks don’t use springs, making them almost immune to water, salt, or sand. Genuine Abloy disc detainer locks are still better than most of the locks available in the market.

However, a lot of cheap copies have filled up the market. You can easily pick these cheap products with some inexpensive tools.

Conclusion

Well, that’s all we had to say about different types of locks and how to pick them. However, there are many other types of locks available, starting from pocket locks, pad locks, multi-point locking systems, and so on that you can go and pick from.

In simpler terms, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Nonetheless, it’s a great way to start your journey. So before wrapping up, we have a piece of advice for you. When you start to learn about lock picking, begin with pin locks.