Team Two Times

The don't call us Team 2 Times for nothing, we have screwed up plenty of times, which of course is why we are so good now.

One great example comes to mind back when Marcus and I had spent all day walking on floor joists of a second story while installing new plumbing. We were so careful as to not misstep and crash through the ceiling, which wasn't just drywall, since this was over the front porch.

Anyway, towards the end of the day, I slipped and luckily (sort of) one foot went on each side of the joist, keeping me from falling to the porch below (ouch). Along with my feet, the busted up plaster and my bruised ego, all of the ABS (plastic drain pipe) also came crashing down onto the porch. Outside, there were about a half dozen guys installing a fence around the property, all of whom cheered....I don't think they even waited to see if I was ok first!

In the end we ripped off the remaining plaster from the ceiling of the porch and replaced it with fresh stucco. The funny thing was, it was so much easier to do the plumbing without that plaster in the way.

Never be afraid to mess up, it happens. Just get right back up (or down in my case) and do it again.

Have any similar stories? Email me.

Russ

Labels: abs plastic drain pipe, hgtv host, marcus hunt, plaster, plumbing, porch, russ hemmis, screw up home repair, stucco

Labels: ace, contractors, depot, do it yourelf, electricians, hammer heads, hardware store, hgtv, lowes, marcus hunt, orchard supply, osh, plumbers, renovation, repair, russ hemmis

The first project that I can remember creating was a present that I wanted to make for my mom. I think I was about 28, ha, no, more like 8 and it was a shoe rack. My dad helped me cut two wooden squares out of ¾ inch plywood and drill 3 holes into them. I used dowels in between and it actually worked. I ended up being asked to make two more for her friends. Probably more to make me feel good, opposed to my stellar carpentry skills, but I had fun.

Labels: carpentry, dad, do it yourself, dowels, drill, home improvement, how to, mom, plywood, shoe rack

When it comes to hanging something (artwork, shelves, mirrors) there are several ways to find studs behind a wall. There are a bunch of different electronic stud finders out there and I’ve never really had huge luck with any of them, especially if the wall surface isn’t completely flat. I recently discovered a magnetic stud finder – really, just a strong magnet in a shell. It picks up the drywall screws/nails behind the wall and so far, it’s been one of my favorite new gadgets.

Not really new, but also one of my most used tool belt items is a 4 in one screwdriver. It has both a reversible small and large Phillips/flathead bit. It cuts down on what I have to carry and makes it super convenient when doing something like changing a light switch or plug outlet which usually has flat head screws for the face plate and Phillips head for the switch or plug. They’re not expensive and a great addition to your toolbox or kitchen drawer.

An LED flashlight – I actually carry two in my tool belt – a normal flashlight and a head mounted one. Why I like LED – They produce a clean, bright light, last super long and use substantially less energy than a normal bulb – meaning you save money on batteries and new bulbs. Ha, you may look a little silly, but the head lamp comes in super handy when I’m in an attic, under a house or just need both hands to work on something.

Speaking of LEDs, I’m a huge fan of them as lighting in general. The nice thing about them is that they really don’t produce any heat, making them ideal for tight spaces where the surroundings could burn. We recently built a hideaway bed with shelving units on either side. I installed dimmable halogen lights in the shelving unit, but used the very slim, LED puck lights inside the hideaway bed closure. Not only was the size ideal, but there was no fear of leaving them on and having them come in contact with the comforter, causing a possible fire. Several manufacturers also make multicolored LED’s and color changing as well. These can add a totally cool effect to a bar, play room, inside cabinets, etc. and are one of my favorite things to add flavor to a project.

Another great little tool that I carry in my tool belt is a sliding square. Basically a metal ruler with an adjustable, sliding, 90 Degree edge on it. The one that I keep in my belt has a 6-inch ruler, but they make them in various sizes and come in super handy when you need to replicate a measurement along a flat edge or draw a straight line. You can also use a normal square (the triangle) but having the ability to change the ruler setting is great.

If you have any questions, email Marcus

Labels: flat head, gadget guru, hanging artwork, home improvement, home renovation, led, phillips, stud finder, tools

Labels: copper pipe, demolition, drywall, hard hat, home repair, safety glasses, work gloves

Although the joke behind Team Two Times name is that it usually takes us twice to get something right, the key to starting any project is taking your time and preparation. You’ll save both time and money by not just jumping in blindly. This may mean doing some internet searching, buying a do-it-yourself book at your local hardware or book store or having someone with experience help you.

We hope you will consider us a resource too. We have made a living buying properties in the Los Angeles area and renovating them ourselves and we are so fortunate to now be on HGTV and to be able to share our experience with you.

We started this blog not only to share funny stories of our mistakes, but to actually help other people who want to tackle home renovations and could value from those mistakes. So email us, yell at us, whatever...just keep stopping by!

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