Handyman Mark Garrett provides tips for making solo household projects an easier task.
- One way to make working alone easier is to have a well-stocked tool belt. Put all the basic, most-used tools into an apron. This will save time by making tools easier to keep track of, and by eliminating trips to the garage.
- Avoid lifting too much. Divide a heavy load into several smaller loads to help prevent back injuries.
- To move a heavy item, like a cement block for a walkway, use a wheelbarrow. First, lean the wheelbarrow on its side and then role the object into it. Next, while in a kneeling position, push the wheelbarrow upright by the upper rim. To unload the object, push the wheelbarrow onto its side and let the object role out.
- For cutting wood using saw, use C-clamps to hold the wood on the working surface of two sawhorses. When using wooden-topped sawhorses, if possible just nail the board to the surface. It's like an extra set of hands.
- To lift and mount a heavy piece of wood, find a place in the studs just below where the board is going to rest and hammer in two spike (large) nails on the end studs.
- To make it easier when nailing or screwing down the piece of wood, first find the locations where the fasteners will go and mark them on the board. Then go through and start nails before putting the wood in place. The nails or screws will then be easier to get started while one hand holds the board in place.
- When using a ladder alone, there are a few important tips that will make it easier and safer. The longer the ladder, the harder it is to control. To make it easier, first anchor the feet of extension ladders against the base of the building and walk the ladder up to raise it. The wall will keep it from kicking out as the ladder is raised.
- To lower the ladder, move the feet back against the building and reverse the whole process.
- Once it is up, extend the ladder while holding it vertical. Make sure to anchor the feet with a heavy weight.
- To walk the ladder sideways, roll the top end-over-end until reaching the desired spot.
- Using a rope is a safer alternative than struggling to carry the bucket up the ladder. Tie a rope around the handle of the bucket, and carry the other end of the rope up the ladder. When at the top, pull the bucket up to the work area. Bend an old wire hanger over the rung of the ladder, and hang the bucket from it.
- Make sure to always tell family members of friends of your whereabouts in case of an accident or emergency. It is a good idea to invest in a cellular phone for this purpose.
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