Spring forward with DIY Resources at PCL

DIY and Home Improvement web sites recommended by PCL:

Acme How To
www.acmehowto.com/home.php
Acme How To is an excellent site for step-by-step troubleshooting and repair of common household problems, from plumbing to insect control. The simple format allows you to click on the problem and find a series of simple solutions with instructions for testing them. This web site also has suggestions and tips for basic home maintenance that are terrific for those who just don’t know where to begin. This site works with www.acmehowto.com/home.php, where parts can be purchased and more fixes are offered. Diagrams and photos of the parts are especially useful.

DIY Network
www.diynetwork.com
The DIY Network is an entire cable channel dedicated to home repair. Shows like Sweat Equity and Bathroom Renovations teach homeowners to complete both simple and complex repairs on their own. Often the amateurs make the repairs, so everyday problems are addressed through the guidance of the hosts. Shows like Cool Tools give reviews of new products and guide purchase decisions. Hundreds of video downloads are available free. Designed to promote the network, the site does appear somewhat cluttered, but a little exploration proves worthwhile.

HGTV
www.hgtv.com
HGTV’s web site includes not only information on its many do-it-yourself and home design programs such as Over Your Head and Divine Design but also tools and social networking features that will appeal to many users.

Renovation Nation
www.planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/renovation-nation
This show from the Planet Green channel teaches viewers to repair and renovate their home using environmentally friendly products and methods. It's an excellent resource for finding green companies and products nationwide. The episode guide includes a recap of completed repairs along with photos and video for additional reference. There's also a database of green building materials.

This Old House
www.thisoldhouse.com
With thousands of videos available demonstrating repair, remodeling, and design, this web site is a smorgasbord of DIY detail. The information contained herein is reliable and thorough. Each video has textual instructions and a shopping and tool requirement list. Difficulty level and average times for completing projects are also included.

Resources compiled by Library Journal, April 1, 2010