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Showing posts from October, 2024

DIY - Ceiling Insulation.

For DIY ceiling insulation in Oklahoma, here’s a guide to what you’ll need and the steps involved: Materials Needed: 1. Insulation Material: Choose a material based on your ceiling type and budget: Fiberglass batts or rolls are popular, affordable, and easy to install. Spray foam insulation provides excellent air sealing but may require special equipment. Blown-in cellulose works well for attic spaces but may require a blower rental. 2. Vapor Barrier (if needed): In Oklahoma’s climate, a vapor barrier might not be essential, but check local building codes or specific manufacturer guidelines. 3. Adhesive Spray or Staple Gun (for batts): To secure insulation to the ceiling joists. 4. Tape for seams in vapor barriers or radiant barriers. 5. Radiant Barrier: Optional but beneficial for energy savings in hot summers. Tools Required: Utility Knife: To cut insulation to size. Protective Gear: Wear gloves, a mask, goggles, and long sleeves to avoid irritation from materials like fiberglass. Me...

Gardening - Gophers

Gophers can be tough to deal with, especially when they cause soil erosion and make the ground soft. Here are a few solutions that may help: 1. Physical Barriers Underground Fencing: Installing hardware cloth (galvanized mesh) around key areas, like garden beds, can prevent gophers from burrowing in specific places. For large areas, this can be more labor-intensive but effective. Raised Beds: If your problem area is a garden, consider using raised beds with mesh underneath to prevent burrowing from below. 2. Natural Predators Owls and Hawks: Gophers are prey for many birds of prey. Setting up owl boxes or perching spots might encourage them to hang around, which can naturally reduce the gopher population over time. 3. Plants as Repellents Gopher-Repelling Plants: Planting gopher-deterring plants like marigolds, castor beans, or garlic around your property can help. These plants have natural chemicals or scents that gophers tend to avoid. 4. Soil Amendments and Ground Cover for Erosion ...