McDun Services

Living on the ranch with fresh air and wide-open spaces has its perks, but it also means there is plenty of dirt to go around. Our furry quality control expert, The Dewster, has high standards for his hydration station.

Enter the Bib Dog PetSafe Drinkwell fountain. This magical contraption keeps a steady stream of fresh, filtered water flowing for our discerning canine companion. Let’s just say, keeping the filters stocked in this neck of the woods is a full-time job!

The Dewster takes his role as chief water inspector very seriously. He gives each new filter a thorough sniff-test before deeming it worthy. We’re pretty sure he can also detect even the faintest hint of a mineral deposit from a mile away.

Maybe he’s a bit spoiled, but hey, a happy pup is a hydrated pup! And hey, those PetSafe Drinkwell filters work wonders at keeping The Dewster’s water fountain fresh and worry-free for us humans (even if we do go through them like crazy).

So, here’s to The Dewster, our resident water connoisseur and chief filter inspector. May your water always flow freely (and remain impeccably filtered)!

Is your home stuck in the era of popcorn ceilings and swirly wall textures? Don’t despair, DIY warriors! Giving your walls a modern, smooth makeover is easier than you might think. It’s like giving your living room a facelift without the surgery (and the outrageous cost!).

Now, some of you might be thinking, “Isn’t this a massive project? Like, rip out the walls and start over kind of thing?” Nope! This is a weekend warrior’s dream. Sure, replacing flooring can be a whole other adventure (think ant colonies and surprise rotten boards!), but smoothing out textured walls is a project that delivers big results with minimal fuss.

In the end, what do you get? A room that’s:

• More Efficient: Flat walls are easier to clean, paint, and decorate. No more dust bunnies hiding in the texture!
• Solid: You’ll be creating a smooth, even surface that feels more substantial.
• Attractive: Let’s face it, smooth walls are the epitome of modern, clean design.

Ready to ditch the dated texture and create a space you love? Here’s what you’ll need:

• The Goods: Grab some sheetrock (drywall for you non-construction folks), all-purpose joint compound (fancy way of saying mud!), water, a mud pan (like a painter’s tray, but for mud!), and various sized spatulas (think of them as your paint brushes for this project).
• The Mix: Now, the fun part! Imagine your joint compound is like a milkshake. You want it thick enough to hold its shape, but still pourable. Think “drinkable with a straw,” not “blocks the straw entirely.”

Next steps? We’ll dive into the actual application process in the next post. Stay tuned, and get ready to transform your space from “dated disaster” to “design dream”!

When it comes to tackling projects around the house, whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, hanging a shelf, or assembling furniture, the right tools make all the difference! While it might be tempting to use whatever tools you have on hand or to borrow a neighbor’s, there are compelling reasons why investing in the right tools for the task is crucial.

Efficiency and Precision: Imagine trying to tighten a screw with a pair of pliers instead of a screwdriver designed for the job. Not only will it be inefficient and time-consuming, but you’re also likely to strip the screw head or damage the surrounding material. Professionals use specific tools because they are designed to perform tasks efficiently and with precision. For example, using a level instead of eyeballing it ensures that shelves are straight and sturdy.

Safety First: Using improper tools can also pose safety risks. For instance, using a makeshift ladder instead of a sturdy one can lead to falls and injuries. Professionals prioritize safety by using tools that are designed to minimize risks and ensure a secure working environment. Investing in proper safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and masks, further enhances protection during DIY projects.

Quality and Longevity: Quality tools are an investment that pays off in the long run. They are designed to withstand rigorous use and provide consistent performance over time. For instance, a high-quality paintbrush will apply paint smoothly and evenly, resulting in a professional finish that lasts. Using the preferred tools of the pros ensures that your workmanship meets high standards and stands the test of time.

Time and Cost Savings: While it might seem cheaper to make do with what you have, using the right tools can actually save you time and money in the long term. Proper tools make tasks easier and more efficient, reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes or rework. Moreover, they enable you to complete projects faster, freeing up time for other pursuits or additional tasks around the house.

Learning and Skill Development: Using the right tools can also enhance your DIY skills and knowledge. As you become familiar with different tools and their uses, you’ll gain confidence in tackling more complex projects. Learning to use tools correctly improves your overall proficiency and empowers you to take on a wider range of home improvement tasks.

In conclusion, having the right tools for the job is essential for anyone who enjoys DIY projects or simply wants to maintain their home. While it may be tempting to use makeshift solutions or borrow tools from others, investing in quality tools tailored to specific tasks ensures efficiency, safety, and long-term satisfaction with your work. By using the preferred tools of the pros, you not only achieve better results but also gain valuable skills and confidence in your abilities. So, the next time you embark on a home improvement project, remember that the right tools are your best allies in achieving success. Happy DIYing!

Aaron’s Preferred Tools!

Sean’s Preferred Tools!

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Driver, Brushless, 1/4″, 3-Speed, Bare Tool Only

Klein Tools 32500HD KNECT Multi-Bit Screwdriver / Nut Driver, Impact Rated 11-in-1 Tool with Phillips, Slotted, Square and Torx Tips

Klein Tools K11095 Klein-Kurve Wire Stripper and Cutter, for 8-18 AWG Solid and 10-20 AWG Stranded Wire

Klein Tools 80020 Plier Set with Lineman’s Pliers, Diagonal Cutters, and Needle Nose Pliers, Made in USA with Induction Hardened Knives, 3-Piece

Klein Tools CL220 Digital Clamp Meter, Auto-Ranging 400 Amp AC, AC/DC Voltage, TRMS, Resistance, Continuity, NCVT Detection, and Temp

When laying new tile it’s important to plan and prepare in advance to ensure you have the best looking finished product possible.

1. After pulling up the old flooring, clean the surface below.

2. Remove baseboards if you’re doing tile or wood. This allows you to get the new floor close to the wall without having to purchase new baseboard material to finish off the look. Label the baseboards as you’re taking them off to make re-installation easier.

3. Use your spacers on tile to ensure an even grout line.

4. Plan the floor to know the direction of the tiles and to ensure any cuts are done correctly.

5. Consider the traffic in the area you’re tiling before you choose a grout color. A pale grout in a high traffic home with animals is going to take some work keeping clean. Different color grouts also change the look of a floor.