Shop Vac Overheating: Causes And Prevention

Shop vacs, like any other electrical device, can overheat due to various reasons, including a clogged filter, improper use, mechanical issues, or electrical problems. Overheating can lead to damage to the vacuum and increase the risk of electrical hazards. It is crucial to identify the source of overheating promptly to prevent further issues and ensure the safe operation of the shop vac.

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Shop Vacs: The Unsung Heroes of Every Woodworker and DIYer’s Toolkit

Hey there, fellow woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts! Let’s talk about an indispensable tool that often gets overlooked but makes all the difference in our projects: the mighty shop vac!

These unsung heroes are not just for cleaning up sawdust; they’re also lifesavers for dust collection, sanding, and even shaping wood. They keep our workspaces clean, safe, and smelling fresh. But just like any other tool, shop vacs need a little TLC to keep them running smoothly.

Overheating Concerns:

Like any hardworking tool, shop vacs can sometimes struggle with overheating. It’s a common issue, but don’t worry – understanding the causes and taking the right precautions can help you avoid any potential problems.

Causes of Shop Vac Overheating

  • Extended use without breaks: Just like us, shop vacs need to take a breather every now and then. Pushing them too hard without letting them cool down can lead to overheating.
  • Clogged filters: When the filter gets clogged with sawdust or other debris, it restricts airflow and makes the motor work harder, causing it to overheat.
  • Obstructed airflow: If there’s not enough space around the shop vac or if the hose or attachments are bent or kinked, it can restrict airflow and cause overheating.

Consequences of Shop Vac Overheating

Overheating can take a toll on your shop vac, reducing its suction power and potentially damaging the motor. It can also pose safety hazards like increased temperatures and potential electrical issues.

Prevention Measures to Avoid Overheating

  • Regular filter maintenance: Change or clean the filter regularly to prevent clogs and ensure proper airflow.
  • Ensure adequate airflow: Place the shop vac in an open area with plenty of space around it and avoid kinking or bending the hose or attachments.
  • Avoid extended use without breaks: Give your shop vac a break every 30-45 minutes to let it cool down and prevent overheating.

Shop Vacs: Powerhouse Tools, but Don’t Let Them Overheat!

Howdy fellow woodworkers and DIY rockstars! You know that trusty shop vac that’s always there to suck up your sawdust, wood chips, and, let’s be honest, whatever other debris life throws your way? Well, it’s time to give it some love and show it how much we appreciate it by keeping it cool and running like a champ.

Why Overheating is a Pain in the… You-Know-What?

Like any hard-working tool, shop vacs can get a little warm under the collar when they’re pushed too hard. Just imagine yourself after a long day of hammering and sawing—you’re tired, sweaty, and ready for a break. Shop vacs are the same. When they overheat, they start to lose their suction power and can even become a safety hazard.

So what causes these mighty vacuums to melt down? Well, there are a few culprits:

  • Working Overtime: Like that overly ambitious employee who never takes a break, shop vacs need to cool down from time to time. Running them for hours on end without a break is a surefire way to overheat them.
  • Clogged Filters: When your shop vac’s filter is full of sawdust and debris, it restricts airflow and makes the motor work harder. That’s like trying to breathe through a stuffy nose—it’s not going to be easy, and it’s definitely not going to be efficient.
  • Restricted Airflow: If there’s not enough space around your shop vac to allow air to circulate, it’s going to struggle to stay cool. Think of it as trying to work in a cramped closet—it’s not going to be very productive.

So there you have it—the causes of overheating. Now let’s dive into the consequences and how to avoid them like the plague.

Shop Vacs: Keep ‘Em Cool or They’ll Go Poof!

Hey there, fellow sawdust connoisseurs! Shop vacs are our trusty sidekicks in the workshop, but like all good things, they need a little TLC to keep them humming along. One of the biggest headaches we can run into is overheating—it’s like the kryptonite to our shop vacs!

Why, oh why, do these little helpers get so hot under the collar?

Well, it’s a bit like when you’re running a marathon and your muscles start screaming for a break. Shop vacs face similar challenges when they’re pushed too hard or not given enough love. Constant use without a breather, clogged filters, and restricted airflow can all turn our vacs into fiery dragons.

Consequences of Overheated Shop Vacs: A Cautionary Tale

Picture this: your shop vac, once a gentle giant, now sounds like a jet engine and sucks with the power of a wet noodle. That’s the sad reality of overheating. It can cause serious damage to the motor, leaving you with a useless lump of plastic. But that’s not all, folks. Overheating can also pose safety hazards, like the risk of electrical fires. Trust me, you don’t want to turn your workshop into a smoky, dangerous zone!

Prevention is Key: Keep Your Shop Vacs Chilled

The secret to a happy, healthy shop vac? Regular maintenance and a bit of common sense. Clean those filters like they’re your prized possession. Clogged filters are like roadblocks for airflow, forcing your vac to work harder and overheat like a sauna.

Give your vac plenty of room to breathe. Don’t smother it with sawdust or other debris. Ensure there’s no furniture, walls, or curtains blocking its path to a cool, refreshing breeze. And remember, marathons aren’t for everyone—let your shop vac rest occasionally so it can cool down and recharge its batteries.

Shop Vac Overheating: Let’s Keep It Cool and Safe

Shop vacs are indispensable tools for woodworkers and DIYers alike, helping us tackle cleanup tasks with ease. But when these mighty machines start to overheat, it’s like watching a beloved tool turn into a sizzling summer nightmare.

Why the Big Heat?

Overheating is a common woe for shop vacs, and it’s crucial to understand the culprits causing this fiery distress. Like a car engine, shop vacs need to breathe to stay cool. Factors that can choke their airflow and ignite overheating include:

  1. Extended Use Without Breaks: Pushing your shop vac to its limits without giving it a breather can lead to a buildup of heat that’s as welcome as a sauna in July.
  2. Clogged Filters: A clogged filter is like a traffic jam for your shop vac’s airflow. Dust and debris can pile up, restricting the flow of air and causing the motor to work harder, generating more heat.
  3. Obstructed Airflow: Make sure your shop vac has plenty of room to breathe. Obstacles like walls or piles of debris can block airflow, just like a stuffy attic can make you feel like an overcooked turkey.

The Dangers of Overheating

When a shop vac overheats, it’s not just a matter of discomfort. It can cause serious damage to the motor, reducing suction power and potentially leading to a fire hazard. It’s like a fire-breathing dragon in your workshop, and no one wants that!

How to Keep Your Shop Vac Cool and Calm

  1. Filter Maintenance: Regularly clean or replace the filter to prevent clogs. It’s like giving your shop vac a lung transplant, ensuring it can breathe easy.
  2. Airflow FTW: Place your shop vac in an open area with plenty of space around it. Make sure it’s not snuggled up to walls or buried under a pile of sawdust.
  3. Take Breaks: Don’t run your shop vac like a marathon runner. Give it regular breaks to cool down and catch its breath.

Troubleshooting Overheating

If your shop vac starts to overheat, don’t panic! Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  1. Check the Filter: Inspect the filter for clogs and give it a good cleaning or replacement if needed.
  2. Listen for Noises: If your shop vac is making unusual noises, it could be a sign of overheating. Turn it off immediately and check for any obstructions in the airflow.

If the problem persists, it’s time to call in the professionals. Don’t be a DIY daredevil; entrust your shop vac to a qualified technician to fix the overheating issue and restore it to its pristine cleaning glory.

Shop Vac Overheating: An Unfortunate Tale (But Don’t Panic!)

Fellow woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts, and all-around handy folks, have you ever found yourself in this sticky situation? You’re blissfully vacuuming up wood shavings, sawdust, and other workshop debris, but suddenly… poof! Your trusty shop vac starts to sputter and wheeze like a tired old dog. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Overheating is a common culprit in the world of shop vacs, but fear not, for we’re here to shed light on this perplexing issue.

One of the main reasons why your shop vac might be getting a little too hot under the collar is extended use without breaks. Think about it: you wouldn’t run a marathon without taking a breather, and neither should your shop vac! Giving your vac a break every 20-30 minutes allows it to cool down and prevent overheating. Imagine it like a car engine: it’s better to give it a moment to catch its breath than push it to the point of exhaustion.

Overheated Shop Vacs: A Tale of Clogged Filters and Other Perils

As a fellow woodworker or DIY enthusiast, I understand the indispensable role of shop vacs in our beloved workshops. But, like any trusty tool, these mighty machines can succumb to occasional overheating, leaving us scratching our heads and wondering what went wrong. One of the most common culprits? Clogged filters.

Picture this: your shop vac is faithfully sucking up wood shavings, sawdust, and other workshop debris like a champ. But over time, all that dust and grime start to accumulate on the filter, acting like a stubborn roadblock. The air struggles to pass through, causing the motor to work harder and generate more heat. It’s like trying to breathe through a clogged straw – it’s tough work, and it’s only a matter of time before something gives.

So, what happens when a shop vac overheats due to a clogged filter? Well, it’s not pretty. The motor, the heart of your vac, can suffer damage, leading to reduced suction power and a shorter lifespan for your trusty tool. And in extreme cases, that overheating can even pose a fire hazard.

Moral of the story? Keep those filters clean! Make it a habit to check them regularly and give them a good cleaning when they start to look dusty. It’s a small step that can save you big headaches and keep your shop vac running smoothly for years to come.

Obstructed Airflow: The Silent Killer of Shop Vacs

Like a clogged artery restricts blood flow, obstructed airflow can be the silent killer of your beloved shop vac. It’s like tying a blindfold over its eyes, preventing it from seeing the dust particles it’s supposed to devour. And just as a clogged artery can lead to heart problems, obstructed airflow can cause the motor to overheat and even lead to a premature demise for your trusty shop vac.

The culprits behind obstructed airflow are often sneaky and hard to spot. It could be a pile of sawdust that’s slowly suffocating the intake vent, or a kink in the hose that’s restricting the flow of air. These silent assassins can slowly starve your shop vac of the oxygen it needs to breathe.

So, how do you prevent this sneaky killer from striking? It’s all about vigilance and a little bit of routine maintenance. Just like you visit the doctor for regular checkups, give your shop vac a quick checkup before and after each use. Check the intake vent for any sawdust buildup, and give the hose a good shake to make sure there are no kinks or obstructions.

Shop Vac Overheating: Don’t Let Your Helper Burn Out!

Hey there, fellow woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts! Let’s talk about our trusty shop vacs, the workhorses of our workshops. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s remember that overheating is a real concern for these hardworking machines. So, let’s explore what causes it and how to prevent it, so you can keep your shop vac humming smoothly.

Consequences of Shop Vac Overheating: A Cautionary Tale

Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a project, and suddenly your shop vac starts making strange noises. Oops! Overheating can take a toll on your motor, not only reducing its suction power but also potentially leading to a burnout. And remember, a burnt-out motor is like a broken heart for your shop vac—not a good look!

Prevention Measures: Keep Your Shop Vac Cool

To avoid this shop vac heartbreak, let’s focus on prevention. Regular filter maintenance is key. A clogged filter is like a traffic jam for your shop vac, causing it to overheat faster. So, clean that filter out regularly, like giving your workshop a good vacuuming itself!

Another important tip: give your shop vac some breathing room. Obstructed airflow is like giving your shop vac a big hug that’s just a little too tight. Make sure there’s enough space around the machine, especially its vents, for air to circulate freely.

Finally, don’t push your shop vac too hard. Extended periods of use without breaks can put extra strain on the motor and lead to overheating. Give it a rest every now and then to cool down, like a tired puppy after a long play session.

Shop Vacs: Overheating Hazards and How to Avoid Them

As woodworkers and DIYers, we rely heavily on shop vacs to keep our workspaces clean and organized. But before you start sucking up that sawdust, it’s crucial to understand the potential dangers of overheating and the safety hazards it poses.

The Heat Is On: Overheating Hazards

Shop vacs work hard, and like any machine, they can overheat if pushed too hard. Increased temperatures can lead to:

  • Reduced suction power: A shop vac that’s overheating will lose its oomph, making it less effective at cleaning up your mess.
  • Motor damage: Overheating can fry the shop vac’s motor, leaving you with a useless hunk of plastic (and a pile of sawdust to clean up!).
  • Electrical fires: In extreme cases, overheating can cause electrical fires, which is never a good thing in a workshop full of flammable materials.

Keep Your Cool: Prevention Measures

To avoid these hazards, follow these cooling tips:

  • Give it a break: Shop vacs aren’t marathon runners. Give them regular breaks to cool down and prevent overheating.
  • Clean filters regularly: Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing the shop vac to overheat. Change or clean your filters as often as recommended.
  • Ensure proper airflow: Don’t smother your shop vac! Ensure it has ample space around it to circulate air and dissipate heat.

Preventing Overheating in Shop Vacs: Keep Your Cleanup Buddy Running Cool

Shop vacs, those trusty workhorses of woodworkers and DIYers, can be a lifesaver for keeping your workspace clean and free of sawdust and debris. But like any hardworking tool, shop vacs can also be prone to overheating if not properly maintained. And an overheated shop vac is not only a pain to deal with, it can also be dangerous and shorten the lifespan of your tool.

That’s why it’s important to understand what causes overheating in shop vacs and how to prevent it. One of the most common causes of overheating is clogged filters. When the filter becomes clogged with sawdust and debris, it restricts airflow and forces the motor to work harder to maintain suction. This increased strain on the motor can lead to overheating and reduced suction power.

To prevent your shop vac filter from becoming clogged, it’s essential to clean or replace it regularly. How often you need to clean or replace the filter will depend on how frequently you use your shop vac. If you use it frequently, you may need to clean the filter every few months or even more often. To clean the filter, simply remove it from the shop vac and shake or vacuum off any loose debris. If the filter is heavily clogged, you may need to wash it with soap and water and allow it to air dry thoroughly before reinstalling it.

By following these simple tips, you can help prevent overheating in your shop vac and keep it running smoothly for years to come. So next time you’re cleaning up your workshop, remember to give your shop vac a little TLC and keep its filter clean. It will thank you for it with years of reliable service.

The Art of Keeping Your Shop Vac Cool: A Carpenter’s Guide to Preventing Overheating

Yo, fellow woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts! You know that trusty shop vac you rely on to keep your workspace clean? Well, let’s talk about a little secret to keep that bad boy running like a champ: adequate airflow.

It’s like giving your shop vac plenty of room to breathe. Imagine trying to run a marathon with a bag over your head? Not so easy, right? Same goes for your shop vac. If the air can’t circulate around it, the motor starts to overheat and you’ll have a grumpy, sluggish vacuum on your hands.

Why is Adequate Airflow So Important?

  1. Keeps the motor cool: The motor is the heart of your shop vac, and it needs that fresh, cool air to keep it pumping strong. Overheating can damage the motor, leading to reduced suction power and a shorter lifespan.

  2. Prevents safety hazards: When your shop vac overheats, it can become a fire hazard. No one wants their workshop going up in flames, so let’s keep those temperatures down.

How to Ensure Adequate Airflow

  1. Give it some space: Don’t crowd your shop vac against the wall or other objects. Leave some breathing room around it, especially the exhaust vents.

  2. Clean the vents: Clogged exhaust vents are like a stuffy nose for your shop vac. Regularly brush or vacuum the vents to keep the air flowing freely.

  3. Avoid extended use: Even the best shop vacs need a break now and then. Don’t run it for hours on end without giving it time to cool down.

  4. Check for airflow obstructions: Make sure there’s nothing blocking the airflow around your shop vac. Tools, cords, or even sawdust buildup can create obstacles for that precious air.

So, there you have it, my friends. By ensuring adequate airflow around your shop vac, you’re giving it the love it needs to stay cool and keep your workshop clean and safe. Remember, a happy shop vac is a productive shop vac, and a happy you is a productive you!

Shop Vacs: Keep ‘Em Cool and Running Smooth

Avoid Extended Use: Don’t Overwork Your Sucker!

Just like your trusty hammer, shop vacs need a break now and then. Picture this: You’re sanding away like a madman, and suddenly, your vac starts huffing and puffing like it’s on its last legs. What gives? It’s overheating, my friend! Don’t be a slave driver. Let your vac take a breather every hour or so. It’ll thank you for it with years of loyal service.

Think of your shop vac motor as a hardworking marathon runner. If you push it too hard, it’s bound to overheat and burn out. Just like you need to hydrate and rest during a long run, your shop vac needs breaks to cool down. Regular breaks keep your vac running smoothly and prevent untimely breakdowns.

Avoiding the Fireball Phenomenon: Overheating Prevention for Your Shop Vac

Us woodworkers and DIYers rely on our shop vacs like they’re our trusty sidekicks. But just like any sidekick, they need a little TLC to stay loyal and avoid turning into a mechanical fireball. One of the biggest threats to their well-being is overheating.

So, What’s the Big Deal with Overheating?

Imagine your shop vac as a hard-working superhero. But just like any superhero, it can get overwhelmed and start to overheat. Overheating can lead to a host of issues, including a drop in suction power, which is like a superhero losing their strength. Even worse, it can pose safety hazards if temperatures rise too high.

Culprits of Overheating

There are a few sneaky culprits that can cause your shop vac to overheat:

  • Clogged filters: Think of them as the vacuum’s breathing mask. If they’re blocked, it’s hard to breathe and the motor starts to strain.
  • Obstructed airflow: If there’s too much stuff around your shop vac, it’s like putting a pillow over its face. Air can’t circulate, and overheating ensues.
  • Extended use without breaks: Just like you need to take breaks during a marathon, your shop vac needs some time to cool down. Running it for hours on end is like asking it to sprint without a water break.

Signs and Symptoms of an Overheating Vac

Spotting an overheating shop vac is like catching a thief in the act. Here are the telltale signs:

  • Reduced suction power: Your vac starts to lose its suction, as if it’s getting tired.
  • Unusual noises: You hear strange sounds coming from the vac, like it’s protesting the treatment it’s receiving.
  • Hot exterior: The outer casing of your shop vac feels extra toasty, like it’s been hanging out in a furnace.

Prevention is Key

To avoid overheating nightmares, follow these simple tricks:

  • Regular filter cleaning: Keep those filters clear like a mountain stream.
  • Clear airflow: Give your shop vac some breathing room, like a superhero needs space to fly.
  • Scheduled breaks: Let your vac take a breather every now and then. Don’t treat it like you’re in the vacuum Olympics.

If Overheating Strikes, Don’t Panic!

Even the best-intentioned superheroes can stumble. If your shop vac overheats, don’t despair.

  • Inspect the filter: See if it’s clogged and needs a cleaning.
  • Check for airflow obstructions: Remove any obstacles that might be suffocating your vac.
  • Give it a break: Let it cool down and rest its weary motor.

Extreme Measures

In severe cases, you might need to replace the motor or seek professional help. But don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. Just like any superhero facing a challenge, your shop vac will bounce back stronger with a little TLC.

So, there you have it, my trusty woodworker and DIY cohort. By understanding the causes and symptoms of overheating, and following these preventive measures, you can keep your shop vac running smoothly and avoid any fiery surprises. Remember, a well-maintained shop vac is a happy vac, and a happy vac is a productive one.

Shop Vac Overheating: Don’t Let Your Buddy Burn Out!

Shop vacs are our trusty sidekicks in the workshop, helping us banish sawdust and debris in a flash. But like any trusty tool, they need a little TLC to keep them running smoothly. One common issue that can plague shop vacs is overheating, and it’s not something you want to ignore. Just like you wouldn’t push your favorite drill until it smokes, you don’t want to let your shop vac overheat.

So, how do you spot the signs of overheating? Well, it’s not like your shop vac will start waving a little red flag. Pay attention to its behavior. If it starts losing suction or making funny noises, it’s time to take a closer look.

One of the main culprits of overheating is a clogged filter. Think of it like this: when your shop vac is working hard, it’s like a vacuum cleaner trying to suck up a pile of socks. But if there’s a sock stuck in the hose, the vacuum cleaner will struggle and eventually overheat.

Checking for a clogged filter is easy as pie. Just pop open the filter housing and have a peek inside. If it’s looking like a fur ball, it’s time to give it a good cleaning. Just make sure to let it dry completely before putting it back in.

Remember, a clean filter is a happy filter, and a happy filter means a happy shop vac. So, don’t let overheating be the downer at your next woodworking party. Keep your shop vac in tip-top shape, and you’ll have a trusty companion for all your sawdust-busting adventures!

Essential Maintenance: Avoiding Overheating and Extending the Life of Your Shop Vac

Hey folks! If you’re a woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, you know your shop vac is your trusty sidekick. But just like any workhorse, it needs a little TLC to keep it running smoothly. Overheating is a common pitfall that can sideline your vac and put a damper on your projects. Let’s explore why overheating happens and what you can do to dodge this dreaded issue.

Causes of Shop Vac Overheating

Picture this: your shop vac is chugging away, sucking up sawdust and debris like a champ. But if you’re not careful, that continuous use can take its toll. The motor works hard to create that powerful suction, and extended periods without breaks can make it overheat.

Another sneaky culprit is clogged filters. When the filter is blocked, the airflow gets restricted, making the motor work even harder and leading to overheating. And if there’s anything obstructing the airflow around the shop vac, like piles of sawdust or other debris, it can also contribute to overheating.

Consequences of Shop Vac Overheating

Overheating is like a bad sunburn for your shop vac. It can damage the motor, reducing its suction power and making it less effective at removing debris. Worse yet, it can create safety hazards if the temperature gets too high. So, it’s crucial to prevent overheating before it becomes a problem.

Prevention Measures to Avoid Overheating

The key to preventing overheating is maintaining your shop vac regularly. Clean the filter frequently to avoid blockages. Make sure there’s adequate airflow around the vac, and avoid marathon cleaning sessions. Give it breaks to cool down and catch its breath.

Troubleshooting Overheating in Shop Vacs

If you notice your shop vac is running hotter than usual, keep an eye out for reduced suction and unusual noises. These can be signs of overheating. Check the filter for clogs and clean it if necessary. Ensuring proper airflow around the vac is also crucial.

Repair Options for Overheated Shop Vacs

In extreme cases, overheating can damage the motor beyond repair. If that happens, you may need to replace the motor. It’s a more involved repair, but a necessary one to restore your shop vac to full power. If you’re not feeling confident tackling the job yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.

Preventing Overheating in Shop Vacs: Keep Your Workhorse Running Smooth

Hey there, fellow woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of shop vacs, those essential tools that help us keep our workspaces clean and tidy. But before we get lost in the sawdust and shavings, let’s talk about overheating – a common issue that can send your trusty vac to the repair shop faster than you can say, “Oops!”

Causes of Shop Vac Overheating

Overheating happens when your shop vac gets too hot, usually because it’s working too hard for too long without a break. It’s like when you push your car too hard on a long drive – eventually, it’s gonna overheat. Other culprits include clogged filters that block the airflow, or obstructions in the hose that prevent the vac from breathing properly.

Consequences of Shop Vac Overheating

If you ignore those overheating signs, you’re asking for trouble. The motor can get damaged, losing suction power and leaving you with a sneezing fit every time you turn it on. And let’s not forget the safety hazards – an overheated shop vac can become a fire hazard, so it’s best to take precautions than to risk a sawdust inferno.

Prevention Measures to Avoid Overheating

The key to preventing overheating is to spoil your shop vac like a pampered princess. Give it regular filter cleanings to prevent clogs. Make sure it has plenty of room to breathe, with no cords or hoses blocking its airways. And like a good friend, give it breaks when it needs them. Don’t keep it running all day without a breather – even shop vacs need their siesta.

Troubleshooting Overheating in Shop Vacs

If your shop vac starts to show signs of overheating, don’t panic. First, check the filter for clogs. If it’s dirty, clean it or replace it. If the filter’s clean and the overheating persists, you may have a more serious problem, like a damaged motor.

Repair Options for Overheated Shop Vacs

If you’re not the handy type, or if the damage is beyond your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to call in the cavalry. There are plenty of professional repair shops that can diagnose and fix your shop vac, so you can get back to your sawdust-filled adventures in no time.

Just remember, a little TLC can go a long way in keeping your shop vac humming and your workshop debris-free. So give it the love and attention it deserves, and it’ll return the favor by making your cleanup tasks a breeze. Happy sawdust-ing, folks!

Welp, there you have it, folks! Hopefully, this little guide has shed some light on why your shop vac might be getting hot and how to fix it. If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer for further assistance. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful home improvement tips and tricks.