If you don’t want to pay someone to install a satellite dish, here’s how to do it. First, get these utilities and equipment ready.

Required Tools and Materials

6” magnetic level
Dish
Drill
1/2" nut driver bit
Six 2” lag bolts
RG6 coax cable
Compass
Screw clips
Staples or zip ties
Satellite signal meter
7/16" wrench
Receiver’s manual

Step 1

Mount the dish so that there’s an unobstructed line of sight. The direction is usually the southwest. Take a look at how other satellite dishes are setup in your area.

Step 2

Secure the mast with the bolts. Use the level and be certain the mast is plumb. Double check just to be sure, as this is very important. When you’re certain, fasten all the bolts.

Step 3

The next step to install a satellite dish is to put the dish antenna onto the mast. Don’t fasten the bolts.

Step 4

Get the coax cable and run it through the dish. It should go out the LNBF or the eye. Join the cable to the LNBF. Join the LNBF to the dish. You should use the screws that come with your dish. When securing in the screws, make sure they are fit but not too tight.

Step 5

Look at the manual to determine the proper elevation and skew configuration setup. Make the proper adjustments. Others just use the settings used by their neighbor’s; it’s up to you.

Step 6

Join the end of the coax cable to the meter. If there isn’t one, you can get it at any electronics store. But you don’t really need one to install a satellite dish. You can employ the TV to determine the signal. Refer to the manual for other information.

Step 7

Turn the meter on (if you have one). Sweep the dish until the meter informs you a satellite has been found. The meter will light or make a sound (check the manual). If you don’t have a meter, look at the signal strength on the TV.

Step 8

Sweep the dish right and left. When you get the strongest signal, fasten in all the bolts. If using the meter, turn it on while fastening the bolts.

Step 9

If after you install a satellite dish there are problems with the vertical, loosen the elevation screws a bit. If necessary, move the reflector in an up and down motion to get the best signal. Tighten the bolts when you get the best signal.

Step 10

Run the coax cable from the dish to your receiver. You can use the zip ties and / or clips to join the cable to the dish.

Step 11

Drill a 3/8” hole in the wall and get the cable through your house. Link the cable to the receiver. This port will usually state “in from satellite”. Connect the receiver to the TV.

After you install a satellite dish, check the manual for information on how to run any other tests. Afterwards, you can start watching TV.

It’s important that you repair a damaged playground as soon as possible to avoid accidents. The following cleaning / repair methods cover both metal and wood playground parts.

General Repair and Maintenance

Required Tools and Materials

Garden hose
Wrenches
Screwdrivers
Damp cloth
Bucket of water
Wood sealant
Pressure washer
Sandpaper

Caring for Wood Parts

If there are splinters or cracks, apply sandpaper on it. You can also use the sandpaper on any rough or sharp areas. If necessary, apply some wood sealant. To remove dust, use a damp cloth. Remember that wood is susceptible to mold too. You also need to know what type of wood it is. Different wood types require different kinds of cleaners.

Caring for Metal and Plastic Components

To repair a damaged playground’s rusted metal parts, apply sandpaper on it. To fortify the components, you should apply stain. To remove dirt from plastic parts, connect a bottle cleaner to the hose and spray it. You can also use a pressure washer rather than a hose.

If any of the screws or bolts is loose, tighten it with a screwdriver or wrench. It doesn’t matter if you assembled the playground yourself or it was pre-built; check the screws and bolts every month.

Getting Rid of Graffiti

If cleaning with soap and water isn’t enough to remove the graffiti, try this approach.

Required Tools and Materials

Stiff brush
Chemical solvent
Baking soda
Power pressure washer
Safety glasses

Step 1

To repair a damaged playground riddled with graffiti, put solvent on the afflicted component. Note: if you don’t have a chemical solvent, use baking soda instead. It’s less potent, but you can be sure that it won’t damage the equipment. Some playground equipment may not be compatible with chemical solvents. Do some research on the solvent just to be sure.

Step 2

Rub the area with the stiff brush. Wipe in a circular manner. If the graffiti doesn’t come off, put on a second or even third layer.

Step 3

Don your safety glasses and apply the pressure washer on the spot. Apply the washer in even strokes around the afflicted area. You may need to experiment to get the right distance to eliminate the graffiti.

Tips and Warnings

When you repair a damaged playground made of wood, determine if the wood needs replacement. Whenever possible, only use treated wood. You can also apply paint over the graffiti rather than wash it off. That can be easier than trying to hose it. Wear a safety mask when painting.

In fact, it’s probably a good idea to paint the playground every now and then. It’s the quickest way of making it look new. In the case of wood, it provides extra protection too.

If you’re using a pre-built playground, follow the instructions on how to assemble it. If you’re building it yourself, double check all the measurements.

If you’re handy with tools, learning to repair a damaged playground shouldn’t be too troublesome. By inspecting the site regularly, you can be confident that it’s a safe place for kids to play in.

Not everybody is fortunate enough to be a real-live pilot. The next best thing to it that one may be able to do is piloting a model airplane by remote control. But while many pilots cannot even build their own plane, anyone can learn how to build a radio controlled plane on their own.

Before one begins how to build a radio controlled plane, one would first have to decide if they want to design their own plane or if they should just assemble one from a model plane kit. For beginners, it would be better to go with the latter first. The materials that will be needed to put the model plane together are some sandpaper, a screwdriver, a workbench, paint, paintbrushes, glue, a knife, pliers, the remote control, and the remote receiver.

One will require a suitable space to work on the remote controlled plane as well as for storage. A spacious garage will do nicely for this purpose. Storing the plane in the garage would shelter it from harsh elements which may be damaging to it. Remove needless clutter from the garage in order to make the necessary working space. Gather the tools that will be used for assembling the plane. One should also place the workbench in an area where the tools can easily be accessed.

The parts of the model plane should be categorized so that important pieces will not be misplaced. They should also be stored to protect them from harmful elements. In the actual assembly of the plane, follow the set of directions that typically come in most model kits. They usually come with comprehensive steps and easy-to-follow diagrams to guide one in how to build a radio controlled plane, which includes piecing it together and wiring its electronic components.

If the model plane is made out of wood, one should make certain to sand the pieces down using sandpaper. This should be done while the plane is being built, as one will find it more difficult to sand down the completed model. Upon completion, the plane is applied with finish and then painted in however way that one would desire. One can paint any color or design that they wish to give their plane its own unique look.

After having finished how to build a radio controlled plane, it would then be time to take it on its maiden voyage. The test flight should be done outdoors, preferably out in a park where there will be plenty of space for the plane to soar through. If all goes well and the test runs smoothly, one can now enjoy the fun of piloting their own aircraft clear across the skies while still keeping their feet on the ground.

Fishing reels are exposed to so many different factors that they can easily be damaged because of wear and tear. Constant exposure to the sun, water and other elements can significantly affect how a reel looks as well as its performance. When a reel is damaged, it is good to buy a new one. However, brand new products are quite expensive. Instead of purchasing a new one, more money can be saved by learning how to repair a fishing reel.

Materials Needed

If you wish to do this moderate task, you have to gather a number of important materials first. These include a degreaser, water and soap. At the same time, you will also need an all-purpose lubricant like WD-40, reel butter and a brush. Likewise, bring in a screwdriver and a clean cloth. Once you have these things, you can start right away with this task.

Steps

Get the clean cloth and then use it to wipe the exterior part of the reel. Be sure to remove all the dirt and debris. For stubborn dirt, try to use a mild degreaser or simply a water and soap solution. By keeping your reel always clean, the buildup of debris and dirt can be avoided. More importantly, a good performance can be expected from a well-maintained reel.

After cleaning, take off the spindle. This is done differently depending on the type of reel used like a spin casting reel, a fly reel or bait-casting reel. Most of the time, removing a locking device or retaining screw is necessary. Gently slide the spool when the retainer is open. When the spool is removed, it is easier to access the gearing. Clean this part because it accumulates water debris, which can slow down the operation of the gears. For this step, you can use a small brush and a clean towel.

Check for chipped or broken gears. In case any part is damaged, replace that part right away with a new one. Put a significant amount of reel butter on the moving parts as well as the gears. Before returning the spool in place, wipe off water debris and the buildup of scum. Aside from the spool, remove water debris and scum buildup from the fishing line.

If the handle is damaged, this part can be replaced easily by unscrewing it and then attaching the replacement. In case it is dirty, simply wipe off debris and dirt from the handle. Apply a small amount of reel butter on the threads. The main body can be accessed by removing the various screws attached to it. Check and change any part that is broken or damaged. Apply WD-40 on the entire reel for it to function better.

Additional Tips and Other Helpful Information

Be careful when handling lubricants because they may contain chemicals that can harm the skin. Aside from this, be sure that there is no open flame when using such products. Never let the lubricant get inside your eyes.

Primarily used for competitive and recreational purposes, a trampoline is comprised of a steel frame, a strong fabric and a piece of taut. It is one of the major components of the volleyball variation called bossaball and the basketball variation referred to as slamball. Aside from these, it is also used as part of many other sports activities like freestyle skiing, gymnastics as well as diving. It can also be used at home as a form of physical exercise. In case you own one, it is good to know how to repair a trampoline.

Materials Needed

With the aid of these few simple materials, this task is moderately easy. These include a patch kit, a duct tape and a measuring tape. Aside from these, you also need an industrial-strength electric sewing machine for the patches.

Steps

Search the trampoline mat for tears and holes. If a hole has a diameter of more than 1 inch, it is safer to replace the mat instead of repairing it. The same thing must also be done to a tear that is longer than 2 inches. This is to ensure that the trampoline is safe enough to use.

In case the diameter of a hole is less than an inch, the use of duct tape is sufficient to patch it up. This is also possible for a tear that is less than 2 inches. Measure the hole or tear and then cut a piece of duct tape that is an inch bigger than the area to be patched. Simply put the piece of duct tape over the hole or tear. Press until the tape is attached firmly in place. Check if the damage has been fixed by jumping on it. If it stays in place, it is now safe to use the trampoline once again.

Additional Tips and Other Helpful Information

Aside from using the duct tape, it is also good to use a patch repair kit to repair trampoline mats. This is good as long as the damage is no bigger than 3 inches. To do this, locate every hole or tear that can be found within the surface of the mat. After that, mark each one with a small piece of duct tape.

Remove the mat from the base of the trampoline. This is a challenging part because the mat is stretched out by the various springs attached to it. To make this task easier, you can ask help from another person in removing this part. Sew the patches on each hole and tear until none of them is left. Put the mat back into the trampoline and enjoy a fully restored trampoline.

Before you build a rock climbing wall for kids, think of the child’s age and ability. Make sure the walls are suited to it.

Required Tools and Materials

Two pieces of plywood
Different handholds
Decking screws
2 x 4 x 8’ long lumber (eight pieces)
Handhold hardware
UV guard
Drill (with bits)
Skill saw

Step 1

Think of where you want the rock climbing wall to be. You can put it in the kids’ room, the garage, the yard etc. To make things easier, set the wall on pre-built structure.

Step 2

Create a box using four 2 x 4s; fasten the corners with the screws. If you’re going to build a rock climbing wall, you need to put 2 x 4s every couple of feet in the box. Screw these in place.

Step 3

Set the wall on the preexisting structure (i.e., the garage wall). Put a couple of plywood sheets over it.

How to Make a Free Standing Wall

The required tools and materials are the same as in the above project but the method is slightly different.

Step 1

Saw four 2 x 4s so you have four pieces 4 ft long each. Cut some more 2 x 4s so you end up with a couple of 16 inch wood pieces and a couple of 32 inch wood bards.

Step 2

Screw two 4 ft boards to the 16 inch boards. You will end up with a rectangle. To build a rock climbing wall, repeat the procedure for the other wood boards. You now have a top (the one you made earlier) and a bottom.

Step 3

Cut four more 2 x 4s 4 ft long. To make the upright posts, fasten these to the bottom box you just made. Make sure you attach them to the inner and outer section of the 32 inch boards.

Step 4

Make a couple more 2 x 4 x 4’ long boards. Put an angle on them. These are the angled boards. Fasten them to the bottom and top boxes with the screws. Now you can put the decking, hardware and other features to finish off the wall.

Notes about the Holds

Of course the handholds are as important as the materials you use to build a rock climbing wall. There are many types sold in stores. Look for those that suit the kids best. If they are new to rock climbing, buy holds meant for beginners. Some pieces also come with novelty accessories.

Tips and Warnings

Make sure you get quality rope for the kids. For small kids, the cotton rope is most suitable. As the child gets older, you can try other types of ropes.

Make sure the screws are secured tightly before allowing the kids to use them. If the wall is free standing, make certain the foundation is strong. Inspect the handholds for any defects before letting the kids use them.

By learning to build a rock climbing wall, you give the kids not just another plaything. It will also strengthen their bodies and give them self confidence.

Although skateboards are widely available, knowing how to make one has its advantages, not the least of which is being able to custom style it. Use the following as a guide on how to build a skateboard.

Required Tools and Materials

Thin piece of wood
Wood press
Trucks
Wheels
Paint
Stain
Waterproof adhesive
Saw

Step 1

Decide what wood to use. You need to choose wood that can endure bodyweight shifts. A lot of skateboarders prefer maple wood or Baltic birth. There are other types available so take your pick. Whichever you choose, the wood needs to be 1/8 to ¼ of an inch thick. Two pieces are needed to make the deck.

Step 2

Decide what shape it will be. Have a look at the various types of skateboards out there. When you build a skateboard, you’ll have to decide between making it easy to use and being aerodynamically efficient.

If you’re a beginner, look at beginner skateboards and see how they are shaped. If you want more flexibility, you can pattern the skateboard after the high end ones you see in stores.

Step 3

Once you have the dimensions of your skateboard figured out, cut the wood pieces to length. Join the pieces together with the waterproof adhesive.

Step 4

Now you need to put the skateboard on a wood press so the piece will assume the shape of a skateboard. After you build a skateboard, you need to leave it on the wood press for five days. After five days, remove the skateboard from the wood press.

Check the wood if there are any splinters. Note: you need to be certain the skateboard is set to your preferences now. After the succeeding steps, you will not be able to change its shape.

Step 5

Paint and design the skateboard. Put two coats of stain on the wood before applying the paint. Use whatever color or design you like. Let the paint dry.

Step 6

Now it’s time to add the trucks and wheels. There are many types to choose from. There are trucks that come fitted with bushing and washers; others don’t. After you build a skateboard, you need to visit skate shops to find the trucks and wheels that suit you.

Step 7

When you get your wheels and trucks, fasten the trucks to the wheels. Drill on the deck and screw in the trucks.

Tips and Warnings

After you make the skateboard, purchase the necessary safety gear. These include the knee pads, elbow pads, helmets etc. Don’t attempt any of the complex skills just yet; start with the basics. Learn how to get on the skateboard, off it, turning and other fundamental moves. You’ll learn more quickly by joining local skate clubs. To be able to skate like the pros, you need to practice constantly.

If you decide to build a skateboard, try to personalize it as much you can by way of the artwork and design. It’s your skateboard, so don’t make it look generic.

A winter pool cover serves as a protection for your pool whenever it is not in use. It protects your pool from algae, debris, and chemical loss especially when the winter months finally arrive. Pool covers will have grommets which are to be located along its perimeter. When installing this kind of pool cover you should take extra care since you don’t want to make any tears or any other forms of damage.

Equipment and Tools

In order to install your winter pool cover you will need to prepare the following tools and equipment: pool cover, pool clips, and some old towels.

Steps to Install Your Winter Pool Cover

Winterize the Pool – Before you start to install your winter pool cover, it is absolutely necessary to winterize your pool. This is a significant step that consists of thoroughly cleaning the pool, taking off the pump and filter, decreasing the water level down to the level of the skimmer and return fitting, and putting in the suitable pool chemicals. Even if the pool cover is made of really strong material, covering all the sharp corners and protrusions within the swimming pool using some old towels or pieces of foam is absolutely necessary to avoid any tear and damage to the pool cover.

Placing the Pool Cover – The size of the entire pool cover that you must purchase should be larger than the size of the pool. Ideally, there should be an overlap allowance of three to four feet so that your pool will be covered completely with enough overhangs on the sides to secure the pool cover in place. To start to install your winter pool cover, you should ask some help from another person to spread the pool cover over the entire surface of your pool. Make sure that the overlapping parts of the pool cover is even on all sides.

Securing the Pool Cover - Once you have done placing the pool cover on the entire surface of your pool, it is now time to secure it in place. Around the edges of the pool cover, you may notice some grommets or loops. You need to insert the cables through these grommets then both ends of the cable must be attached to the holes that are located on the opposite sides of the winch. To securely install your winter pool cover, you must pull the ends of the cable as hard as you possibly can then start to slowly rotate the winch in order to tighten the pool cover.

Covering the Sides of Your Pool – Once the pool cover is already secured in its place on the top of your pool, making some cover for the entire perimeter of the poolside is also necessary. Unsecured side covers will always flap with the wind that will result to the weakening of the pool cover that will cause tearing and other significant damages. You can do some of these methods to secure the side cover of your pool after you have finish to install your winter pool cover. Placing water filled pool cover bags around the inner perimeter of the pool cover can secure it against any wind damage. The grommets of the bags must be securely connected to the cable of the pool cover. You can also use a winter cover seal around the edge of your pool. Pool clips can also be use to securely hold the pool cover in place.

Once you have the following supplies, you’ll be able to build a skateboard ramp. You can make this ramp alone or get your buddies to help you along.

Required Tools and Materials

2 x 4 boards
Saw
Plywood
2 x 6 boards
Hammer
Box of nails
Pen and paper for sketching

Step 1

Decide what type of ramp you want to make. When you make the sketch, include the dimensions. For quarter pipes, you should jot down the vert, transition and how tall it will be.

Step 2

Draw the ramp’s curvature on the plywood. You will need to draw two curves of the exact same shape.

Step 3

For a big quarter pipe, you need to cut two or three 2 x 6s or 2 x 4s. Cut them according to the ramp’s width. Join these to the side pieces. When you build a skateboard ramp, the boards must follow the curvature of the ramp. Put cross boards on to give it extra support.

Step 4

Slice the plywood to the width of the ramp. The length also needs to be the same as the ramp’s. Fasten this to the ramp frame you made using the nails.

Notes

The supporting structure is critical. Be sure it is sturdy enough if the half pipe is a big one. Also keep in mind that a jump ramp will require a less shallow transition than half pipes. Always use treated lumber; they’re more costly but last longer.

How to Make a Mini Skateboard Ramp

To build a skateboard ramp on a smaller scale, you’ll need the following.

Required Tools and Materials

2 x 4s
Wood screws
Plywood (3/4” and 3/8” types)
Skil-saw
Pencil or other drawing utility
Paper for sketching designs

Step 1

Determine the dimensions of your ramp. The typical mini ramp is 2 ft high and 8 ft wide. Take the ¾” plywood and set it on a level surface. Use your pencil to make a line on the right hand side. This is typically 28 inches.

Step 2

Make another line, this time to the left heading to the middle of the plywood. This one is the deck and should be 2 feet. You need to make a straight line 5 feet along the bottom. When you build a skateboard ramp, this will be the bottom of the structure.

Step 3

Link the upper part of the deck to the bottom by drawing a curve.

Step 4

Take your saw and slice along the lines you drew. Repeat the process for the other plywood piece. Now take the 2 x 4s and join both sides. Ensure the intervals are proper to support the ramp.

Step 5

Get 3/8” plywood and bend it. Fit it on the curve. Sand any rough corners.

Tips and Warnings

Always wear helmets when skateboarding. If you aren’t too handy with tools, get someone to help you cut and screw / nail the pieces.

After you build a skateboard ramp, it’s time to start practicing. With enough workout sessions, your skills will improve.

When you build a poker table, you can use different types of wood. You can choose cheap ones for the parts that will be covered. You only need to get quality wood for visible wood. Use strong lumber for the support.

Required Tools and Materials

Tack rags
Sand paper (rough 100 to fine 320)
Staple gun
Stain
Pair of fold up table legs
Drill with screwdriver attachments
Latex gloves
Skill saw
Jigsaw
Poker table felt
Generic handles
Wood
Marker
Poker table foam (1/4)
Spray adhesive
Brushes
String

Step 1

Decide how big the playing area is and the section for the drinks. Cross the corners of the cheap wood. Nail the center point. Measure the string about half the playing area. Fasten it to the nail to draw a circle.

Step 2

To build a poker table, you have to cut the circle you drew. Get the plywood and cut into an octagon shape. Put the quality wood over the octagon shape. Use two pieces if necessary.

Step 3

Go to the underside of the wood and make the octagon shape. You will use this for cutting.

Step 4

Set the quality wood above the plywood. Fasten it with screws. Make sure it is on the inside of the outer inch. Sand the wood, starting with the rough paper before moving to the fine one. Apply stain on it. Follow the direction as stated in the stain package. Finish it off with polyurethane.

Step 5

Set the playing area wood circle on the table. Place it in the middle. Mark points around the wood circle. To build a poker table that’s strong, you’ll need to drill holes in the marked spots. Remove the top playing area wood. Fasten the bolts in the holes.

Step 6

Slice foam equal to the size of the wood circle. Put adhesive on the wood and the foam. The adhesive needs to be applied uniformly. Press the foam on the wood. Smooth it out.

Step 7

Add more glue as you add the felt. Again, even application of the adhesive is a must. Slice into darts the overhanging felt. Pull and fasten them with adhesive.

Step 8

Turn the table upside down. Now you need to build a poker table’s railing. Set them on the perimeter. Staple it. Get someone to help you place the playing area back on. Position it so the bolts are aligned to the holes. Fasten it from the underside.

Step 9

Put the handles on the underside. The table is finished.

Tips and Warnings

Some of the wood types you can use are teak, oak and mahogany. Before you buy the lumber, you need to get the dimensions of the table down. Make sure the space for the drinks on the sides are sufficient. You can look at the designs used by the casino for their tables to get an idea.

It may seem like a lot of planning and thinking is needed to build a poker table. But it’ll be worth it when your pals marvel at your creation.