Fatherhood Factor

For all the "dealings" of dads...

Emily Joswiak

Must-Have Tools Every Handyman Needs

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Must-Have Tools Every Handyman Needs

A workman’s tools are his most prized possessions. Often, he will need different ones for any given project. The must-have tools every handyman needs use electricity (power tools) or require manual application. However, it is crucial every dad knows how to handle power tools because they can be dangerous and unsafe if used improperly. Nevertheless, these are the tools every handy dad should have in their workshop.

Tool Bag or Box

Naturally, every handyman needs a way to carry and store their tools as efficiently as possible. A tool bag or tool box is designed for this purpose. You don’t need to continuously search for your wrenches and screwdrivers when they’re all together. Also, make sure to keep your tool bag in a place you’ll remember it, such as your garage.

Cordless Drill

As one of the most universal tools around, a cordless drill is essential. These operate using rechargeable batteries, which will save you time and money. Not to mention, most cordless drills have a clutch, which help drive screws without damaging them. You can invest in a specialty cordless drill, such as a right-angle drill, to work in tight spaces. Cordless drills are durable and versatile, making them one of the most necessary tools to have in your arsenal.

Cordless Flashlight

While it might not seem like the most vital of tools to own, a cordless or rechargeable flashlight is essential for working in dim or poor light. Most today use rechargeable batteries, so you won’t have to stress over continuously replacing batteries. It’s best to choose an LED flashlight for a powerful white light. This allows you to see through tiny cracks or crevices clearly.

Wrench Set

There are many different types of wrenches available, but you should opt for a combination set. These are double-ended with one end shaped as an open-ended wrench and the other as a box-end wrench. To be versatile, get a set of these for every size bolt. It’s also a good idea to have a socket wrench and pipe wrench due to their utility.

Claw Hammer

A claw hammer is used to drive nails or pull nails from another object, typically wood. These come in various sizes based on the weight of its head.

Electrical Tester

Electrical testers test the presence of electrical conditions in outlets. These determine if voltage is present in the circuit and test for a current and proper grounding. Testers consist of a small bulb with two insulated wires with metal test probes. To use an electrical tester, simply touch one probe into an outlet spot and the other probe to the other spot. The light will glow to signify it’s receiving electricity; if not, then it is a faulty outlet.

Circular Saw

Circular saws are another great tool for your project. These use an abrasive disc blade to cut different materials via rotary motion. They can cut wood, masonry, plastic, or metal. Likewise, you can use the same rechargeable battery pack for your saw if using one from the same manufacturer as your cordless drill.

Screwdrivers

A tool bag staple for projects too narrow for a cordless drill. You can also use different screwdrivers, like a Phillips, slotted, or hex key, depending on the screw used.

7 Signs It’s Time to Call an Exterminator

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There are many things that can go wrong in your home. However, there are serious issues that homeowners tend to overlook and not give them the attention they require. One of them is having pests in your home. Pests, such as rodents and insects, can be a threat to your family’s health if you don’t take care of the issue. As such, here are seven signs it’s time to call an exterminator.

1. You See Them Often

The first sign it’s time to call an exterminator is if you see the pests around your home. For example, when you start seeing a few mice, it’s usually a sign that there is an infestation due to how much they reproduce.

2. You Notice Damage

Pests can cause serious damage to your home, which is part of the reason why you need to get rid of them. Some damage pests can do to your home include chewed up wires, gnaw marks on the walls, or even holes in the walls.

3. You Spot Droppings

There might also be unexplained droppings, which look like brown little pelts, in your home as well. This is common with mice, and if you notice a lot of them around walls or even in your food, it’s time to give an exterminator a call.

4. You Find Their Habitat

Another obvious sign that you are dealing with a pest problem is you find their habitat in your home. This can be anything from various spider webs, a beehive, or a nest made out of shredded paper and other materials. Make sure you check every corner of your home to figure out what you are dealing with.

5. You Have A Lot of Bite Marks

Many pests in our home are known to be more active at night. This is also when they can mess with us. If you are waking up constantly with bite marks, not only should you seek medical attention, but contact an exterminator to deal with the problem as well.

6. You Hear Strange Sounds

You might also be subject to unexplained sounds that you start to hear throughout your home. This can be a sound as obvious as a stinging noise to something not as obvious as scratching within the walls. This, on top of the other signs you might be noticing in your home, probably means you have visitors.

7. Your Methods Aren’t Working

Most people try to take matters into their own hands by laying out mouse traps, spraying deterring scents, and more. However, if your pest issue still persists after trying to get rid of them yourself, your best bet is to call an exterminator who can properly find the source of your problem and take care of it.

6 Sustainable Moving Tips for Families

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Moving isn’t the eco-friendliest process. People tend to throw a lot of items away, waste a lot of materials, and do a lot of driving. If you don’t keep sustainability in mind, your carbon footprint can easily skyrocket during a move. That’s even more likely if you’re moving the whole family. If sustainability is your family’s motto and you want the kids to understand the concept, make sure to follow these sustainable moving tips for families. Plan ahead to make the move less stressful and more environmentally friendly.

Wrap Fragile Items in Soft Fabrics

Instead of using newspaper, take advantage of any soft fabrics around your house and use them to wrap fragile items. From towels and washcloths to blankets and pillowcases, plenty of soft items in the house will protect those fragile pieces better than newspaper ever could. Not to mention, it’ll kill two birds with one stone, as you won’t have to pack those soft items separately.

Use Biodegradable Packing Materials

Bubble wrap and newspaper aren’t good for the environment, either. Once you’ve used up all your soft fabrics, order some biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives. Many bubble-wrap-like materials are compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable, so stock up on these before you pack.

Pack in Containers You Have

One of the most stressful aspects of moving is finding enough storage containers to hold the family’s possessions. However, you probably already have items in your home that can double as storage, including:

  • Duffel bags
  • Suitcases and carry-on bags
  • Plastic bins
  • Dresser drawers
  • Reusable tote bags

Fill these up before you turn to boxes. The more possessions you can fit in containers you already have, the less you’ll have to rely on purchased moving boxes, which aren’t great for the environment.

Rent Reusable Moving Boxes

You’ll probably run out of the aforementioned containers at some point. Cardboard boxes are one of the least sustainable aspects of moving, so instead of purchasing them, turn to renting or reusing moving boxes instead. Ask friends and family members for any boxes they may have at home, then turn to companies that offer box rental options. They’ll provide crate-like bins that are much more sustainable and reusable than their cardboard counterparts.

Donate Items You’re Not Bringing Along

This is another thing the whole family can participate in. As you’re all packing up clothing and home goods, take the time to determine if you actually need each item. If you have any kids’ clothes, jackets, and shoes that don’t fit or that your family simply doesn’t use anymore, pile them up together. Once everyone has their donation pile, schedule a donation pickup with a charity of your choosing, such as Purple Heart—this is both green and gracious!

Map Out Your Route

Our last sustainable moving tips for families is to plan out a direct route to your new home. With kids, we often feel the need to take longer routes to hit interesting stopping points. That’s not something you want to do when you’re driving a massive moving fan. Map out a direct route to use less gas and reduce your carbon footprint.

Ways Parents Can Support Young Athletes

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We’ve all heard horror stories about bad parental behavior at youth sporting events. Arguing with coaches, second-guessing officials, or picking fights with other parents have become all-too-common occurrences at what are supposed to be fun, recreational activities for kids. Assuming you can control your behavior, what are other ways parents can support young athletes?

Let Your Child Choose Their Sport

This is not the time to relive your own childhood sports glory, and your child isn’t there to provide you with a do-over for that time your team lost a big game back in middle school. Your kid’s sport may not be your sport—they may even know more about the sport they choose than you do. Your job is to educate yourself about their choice, show up, and model adult, appropriate behavior.

Teach Good Sportsmanship

Help your child maintain a positive attitude and be gracious in both victory and defeat. Remember that video of the kid who struck out his best childhood buddy to win a championship? Instead of immediately joining a victory celebration, he ran toward home plate to give his devastated friend a hug. Don’t permit badmouthing of teammates and opponents, and don’t shame them for mistakes or poor play.

Provide Appropriate Equipment

This doesn’t mean you need to buy out the sporting goods store to obtain every new gadget or garment that comes along. Every sport, such as baseball, has some basic essentials your child will feel incomplete without. While the team may provide uniforms (for a fee, no doubt) your child may ask you to buy some extras, like protective equipment, sunglasses, or special gloves. Don’t immediately dismiss the request as unreasonable—you may find gently used equipment for a discounted price, or you can afford a splurge on a mouthguard or special socks, that will give your athlete more confidence.

Support Coaches and Officials

Games have rules; otherwise, they wouldn’t be games. Coaches and officials have likely volunteered their time to help kids have a chance to play. Accepting the occasional bad call graciously is part of the game. Learning that coaches and officials are human too is also an important life lesson. You should make sure your kid knows they can talk to you about their coaches and anything the coaches does as well. Unfortunately, some coaches have turned out to be bullies, or worse, so keep an eye out.

Listen to Your Child

If you notice your kid grows reluctant to participate in their sport, it’s time to talk. Youth sports are, above all else, supposed to be fun. If it’s not fun anymore, you need to know why and take action. It’s your role to listen and help your kid work out their next move in athletics, which may include deciding they’d rather have guitar lessons or take a dance class. One of the ways parents can support young athletes is knowing when it’s time to let your kid move on to something else.

Best Birthday Gifts to Get Dads

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Some people don’t like reminders that they’re getting older. Still, birthdays are often fun-filled events with cake, friends, family, and—best of all—gifts. For those who don’t know what to get their fathers for their big day, these best birthday gifts to get dads are sure to bring him joy.

Technology

Sometimes technology is the answer. Some of the greatest gifts for dads are the ones he doesn’t think twice about. For those that constantly misplace objects, such as a phone charger or headphones, get him a portable battery or wireless charger. You can also invest in something he needs—a new pair of headphones is a great gift for audiophiles or a new coffeemaker for caffeine addicts. New technological devices are all about convenience and easy usability. So, consider getting Dad a smart speaker to have around the house. No matter what, any technological gift will keep him up-to-date with the modern age.

Clothes

Similarly, clothes are another foolproof gift option. One of the biggest advantages of men’s clothing is that you can tailor it for any style or taste. For dads who prefer to dress up or wear nice clothes around the office, go for long or short-sleeved button-ups, polos, khakis, or jeans. For the exercise enthusiast, athletic shirts and shorts are must-haves. You can also gift clothing accessories—ties, cufflinks, gloves, hats, jackets, or belts.

Cooking Accessories

Some dads are all about cooking. For them, some of the best gifts to get are cookbooks, utensils, or DIY kits. For the aspiring chef of the house, a knife set, pasta roller, or blender are some common appliances to gift. Just be sure to give him something he’ll use often. Additionally, cookbooks for beginners are perfect for those getting into the hobby. Make sure it’s not too challenging so he feels comfortable in the kitchen.

Health and Wellness

Naturally, some dads take pride in their daily hygienic rituals or exercising routines. Daily hygiene is important for everyone. For men, this involves skincare, shaving, and hair care. Some gifts to match this lifestyle are a new electric razor, eye masks, face masks and facial scrub, or his favorite bathing products. These will help him stay fresh and rejuvenated. Further, gifts such as new gym shoes, a fitness tracker, or an insulated water bottle will keep him active and fit.

Sports Team Apparel

Some dads are die-hard fans for their local sports teams. Given this, it’s only natural to get him presents that remind him of his favorite team. Mugs, hats, signed paraphernalia, or jerseys of his favorite player all make excellent gift options. You can always opt for college athletics if he loves to support collegiate sports or his old alma mater over professional teams.

Tools

Other dads are more hands-on with home renovations or personal projects. Power tools, how-to guides, or materials, such as screws or drill bits, are all great gift ideas. This will keep him busy and hard at work for future side projects.

Fun Activities for Families in the Winter

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With winter here for a few more months, it’s getting to that time where you need some ideas for things to do. Here are a few fun activities for families in the winter.

Indoor Ideas

Nerf war

Get some Nerf guns and have a battle in your house. Chances are, the parents are going to have more fun with this than the kids will.

Scavenger hunt

Make some clues and hide items throughout the house. If you’re not that creative, there are plenty of great walkthroughs on Pinterest to get you started.

Have a movie marathon

Now’s the time to make some popcorn. The winter months are a great time to set up a marathon of all your family’s favorite movies. The longer, the better!

Make your own hot cocoa

Who doesn’t love some hot cocoa? You can look up some unique recipes, or simply stick with the classic and whip out some marshmallows or whipped cream.

Go to a museum

Sometimes, you just need to get the family out of the house. Take a trip to a museum! Go learn something. There are a bunch of great interactive museums throughout the country, so chances are, there’s one near you.

Outdoor Ideas

Build a snowman

If you’re in an area with snow, you have to build a snowman! It’s a traditional fun activity for families in the winter that’s always a hit.

Snowball fight

After arguing about the design of the snowman, you can settle things with a snowball fight. Just be sure to make some rules if there are little ones involved.

Go sledding

Once you’ve finished your epic snowball fight, you can gracefully slide down a hill together. It should be a lot of fun—especially once the races start.

Go to your local parade

Okay, you probably need something laidback at this point. Towns always have parades for any occasion you can think of. Whatever it’s for, make an excuse to go into the community.

Go ice skating

It’s always a safe bet to take the family ice skating. Maybe you’ll raise the next hockey or figure skating star. You’ll never know unless you try. Just be careful, since you are on ice with blades on your feet, after all. Good luck!

This winter is a chance to make some cheerful memories for everyone—so get out there and make them happen!

6 Steps for Finishing a Basement

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Concrete floors and walls aren’t very inspiring, but there’s potential in the basement. Many basements turn into giant closets—essentially, dumping grounds for unwanted stuff in the house. If this sounds familiar, then it’s time to get rid of all that junk and make your basement into something great. If you are a DIYer, this is basically the Super Bowl of home renovations. If you’re not, that’s cool too; there are plenty of contractors looking for work. There are some important steps for finishing a basement to make it great.

Decide What You Want

Before putting even one nail in, decide what you want your basement to be. You need to have a game plan so you can pick out furnishings, lighting, electronics, and any other fixtures. There are plenty of essentials you need for a home theater; for instance, you’ll have different electricity needs than if you want a home gym. Think about these factors before moving forward.

Check for Water

Assuming you’ve lived in the house for a few years, if there’s water coming in, you’ll know where it’s at. Have a professional come in to seal the basement and prevent any further water from coming in. If it’s a new house, have someone come in and check the foundation. It’s silly to move forward and finish a basement if it’s going to get wet the first time it rains.

Make Repairs

In addition to the waterproofing, make any necessary repairs in the basement now. Fixing any cracks in the foundation or replacing a window is a lot easier at this stage in the game. Putting drywall up only to have to tear it down to fix something will cost more money and is hardly efficient.

Frame and Insulate

Once all the repairs are made, it’s time to frame the basement. The framing is essentially the basement’s skeleton. The drywall, insulation, electrical wires, and lights are all attached to the wood frame. Make sure to check the doorways and ensure they are standard sizes, so there’s no problem finding a door to fit the space.

Run Utilities

Once the frame is up, it’s time to run the electric and add any HVAC runs you might want or need. Before starting, map out where you want outlets and switches. With the amount of electronics modern houses have, be sure you put enough in so you can power all the TVs and devices.

Drywall and Paint

After all the utilities are run, it’s time to hang the drywall. Start at the top and make your way down. Break up the seams so you don’t have a long seam that runs from the ceiling to the floor. Make good measurements when cutting out lights and outlets. They can be off a half-inch at most; otherwise, the covers won’t hide the gaps. When painting, make sure to put down a primer coat. New drywall soaks up the paint, and you’ll end up spending a lot of money putting on multiple coats.