Highest scored questions
91,181 questions
223
votes
2
answers
69k
views
What is the purpose of these holes on my wire stripper?
I have been using this wire stripper for a while, but I have always wondered what was the purpose of those holes in the center and above LOOP, and those teeth on the handles.
- 3,206
140
votes
11
answers
130k
views
How to prevent heavy rainwater from jumping the gutter?
During heavy rain, the water collects from my second floor roof and runs onto the first floor roof as it should. The problem is that since all this water is now concentrated from the second floor ...
- 1,383
133
votes
21
answers
82k
views
Is there an easy way to measure the height of a tree?
I'm looking to get an antenna installed for Internet service that will need to clear some trees on my neighbor's property because it requires a clear line of sight to work.
I really don't trust my ...
- 4,753
119
votes
17
answers
139k
views
When should I not use WD-40?
Looks like WD-40 can be used for lubricating just about any metal parts.
Are there non-obvious cases where using WD-40 will be harmful to the stuff lubricated?
- 9,717
115
votes
7
answers
701k
views
How can I add a "C" wire to my thermostat?
So, the spiffy new wi-fi thermostats want power on the C wire from thermostat, but the old thermostat doesn't have a C wire at it. What's the easiest way to add the C wire/24 volt to the thermostat ...
- 6,491
102
votes
3
answers
43k
views
Why does my freezer get a little warmer every 14 hours?
I equipped my fridge-freezer (Bosch KGN 33X48/13, bought around 2013) with a self-made temperature monitoring system to warn me whenever the internal temperature of the freezer rises above a certain ...
- 913
96
votes
8
answers
671k
views
Should a washer go on nut side, or the bolt side?
Often I take something apart and when I go to reassemble it, I don't remember which side the washer was on. When there's only one washer, does it generally go on the nut side (pressed up against the ...
- 1,195
94
votes
18
answers
87k
views
How do I make a height adjustable desk?
Has anyone made their own height adjustable desk? I'm interested in making a computer desk that can easily be adjusted for either standing or sitting.
The lift mechanism could be electric or ...
- 1,039
88
votes
13
answers
109k
views
How to remove screws with stripped heads?
I have wood screws whose heads are stripped from trying to remove them with a drill. The drill (or screwdrivers) can't grip the heads anymore. What can i use to remove these screws easily?
- 1,045
88
votes
15
answers
12k
views
Are solar panels cost-effective?
Environmental issues aside, I'd like to know whether solar panels are worth it from a monetary standpoint?
How long before payoff occurs?
Pros & Cons?
Is technology moving too fast, e.g. should I ...
- 991
88
votes
2
answers
48k
views
Why did my electrician put metal plates wherever the stud is drilled through?
My electrician put the metal plates pictured below wherever he drilled through a stud. My guess is that this strengthens the stud, because it was weakened by the holes he drilled.
Studs with metal ...
- 5,176
83
votes
7
answers
565k
views
Understanding US Screw Sizes
I'm going to be building a workbench, so I've been 'screw shopping.' I need some explanation on the sizing of screws when they are advertised as (example) 6 x 3/4". I know that 3/4" is the length of ...
- 1,149
82
votes
12
answers
72k
views
Is there a case where nails are better than screws, from an engineering/structural standpoint?
Is there a case where nails are better than screws, from a structural standpoint?
For instance: Say you used screws instead of nails on a backyard deck, when the design specifically called for nails. ...
- 1,495
72
votes
14
answers
40k
views
What should I consider regarding LAN wiring before building a house?
I am planning a small house (4 rooms, 2 floors, no basement, no attic, 120 sq.meters) and I want to run a lot of LAN cables throughout because of poor WiFi experiences in my apartment.
Because the ...
- 1,367
72
votes
10
answers
148k
views
How can I improve the water pressure in my shower?
I recently purchased my first home. It has two bathrooms and the water pressure in both is less than ideal. What are some steps I can take to increase the pressure?
- 1,155