Menards®

The end of summer is on the horizon, but you still have time to complete a few DIY projects before the weather starts getting cold. It’s the perfect time to address aging appliances like electric hot water heaters and dishwashers, replace your deck boards, or add a new shed. Here’s what you need to know about a few DIY projects to get done before the cold months. Upgrade Your Deck If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your deck, it’s best to do it while the weather is holding steady. Trying to replace deck boards can be tricky in the rain or snow. Plus, deck boards composite instead of natural wood are weather-resistant without the need for staining and sealing. They are also crack-resistant and won’t splinter. It can be done in a weekend, and you can enjoy your new deck for the last few weeks of summer and throughout fall. Add a couple of outdoor heaters, and you can even use your deck during the winter months! Check on Major Appliances Nothing is worse in the co...

While it’s okay to shop on a budget and cut corners for some home improvement projects, others are worth the extra investment. When upgrading things like electric hot water heaters or exterior decks, it’s worth spending a little extra on quality products, materials, and supplies so you can enjoy a more comfortable, efficient, and safer home. From more hot water on demand to a deck that holds up to Mother Nature, consider investing in these home upgrades. A Better Water Heater If you’re in the market for a new water heater, consider going with a premium option. An electric water heater with a large tank ensures you can take a bath while running the dishwasher, or not worry about family members who all want to take a hot shower on a cold day. Make sure you buy a size that fits your family’s needs, and consider going with a tankless install if you want a more efficient unit with hot water on demand. A Durable Composite Deck Another improvement that is worth the investmen...

It’s time for spring cleaning, and along with organizing your closets and decluttering the garage, there are a few maintenance tasks to check off your list. Some are just quick checks, while others are essential for keeping your home running smoothly. From inspecting and maintaining electric hot water heaters to replacing fence posts, here are a few things to check around your home this spring. Check Deck Boards for Rot Depending on whether you used deck boards composite vs. fully natural wood, you should check for any rot, insect damage, or cracks that happened over the winter. Composite boards won’t have these problems, as they are a mix of resin and wood and don’t have the drawbacks of wooden boards. If your natural wood deck boards do have damage, you might want to replace them with composite boards. Regardless, spring is an excellent time to check your deck and see how it’s holding up. Be sure to check the top of the deck, underneath, and any handrails for damage. In...