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Paint Store Guide: How Los Angeles Weather Affects Paint

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:48:29 GMT

Have you noticed that paint on homes in Los Angeles often fades or peels sooner than expected? Many local homeowners face this challenge due to the region’s unique climate factors. Intense UV exposure, dry summer heat, and coastal moisture all play a role in reducing paint lifespan when the wrong products are applied. This article from your trusted paint store explores how Los Angeles weather affects both exterior and interior paint finishes, highlights why choosing the right sheen is essential, and offers expert advice to help you protect your investment.

Los Angeles Climate Factors That Impact Paint Durability

The Southern California climate presents unique challenges that make choosing the right paint essential. At your local paint store, you’ll find that the main factors your paint must withstand in Los Angeles include:

Intense UV Rays: The sun’s ultraviolet rays are much stronger in Los Angeles than in many other parts of the country. UV radiation breaks down the chemical bonds in paint, causing pigments to fade and the paint film to become brittle. This process leads to cracking, peeling, and chalking on exterior surfaces, especially on south and west-facing walls.
Dry Summer Heat: Los Angeles experiences hot and dry summers where temperatures can climb well above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat causes paint to expand and contract, which stresses the paint film over time. Without flexibility in the paint’s formulation, cracking and flaking are common issues.
Coastal Moisture and Salt Air: For homes near the coast, moisture and salt in the air add extra wear factors. Moisture can seep into paint films, prompting blistering and encouraging mildew or mold growth. Meanwhile, salt deposits cause corrosion on metal surfaces and accelerate paint breakdown as well.
Temperature Swings : Though not as dramatic as some climates, the temperature swings between day and night in Los Angeles also stress paint materials. Paint must be able to accommodate minor expansion and contraction cycles to maintain adhesion.

Understanding these climate factors is the first step to selecting a paint that will last and protect your home beautifully.

Exterior vs. Interior Paint Needs for Los Angeles Homes

At a paint store, you’ll learn that weather impacts exterior and interior paints in very different ways:

Exterior Paint: It must withstand direct exposure to sun, wind, dirt, and water cycles. UV resistance and moisture repellency are critical. Tough binders and pigments help paint maintain color and adhesion over time. Sheens like satin or semi-gloss are often recommended for easier cleaning and enhanced durability.
Interior Paint: While not exposed to the same extremes, interior walls near windows or in humid areas may experience fading or moisture issues. Paint must resist mold in bathrooms and kitchens and maintain color in sunlit rooms. Eggshell or satin finishes provide good balance for wear resistance and aesthetic appeal.

As a trusted paint store, Koontz Hardware can help you determine the best paint type based on your home’s location and room function to ensure optimal performance.

Why Sheen Selection Matters for LA Homes

Choosing the right paint sheen is a crucial decision that homeowners in Los Angeles cannot overlook. Sheen refers to the level of gloss or shine in a paint finish and dramatically affects the paint’s durability and maintenance. For exterior surfaces, a satin or semi-gloss sheen offers better resistance to fading and moisture than a flat finish, making it a smart choice for the LA climate. These sheens also clean more easily, important for homes exposed to dust and coastal salt spray.

Inside the home, sheen choices depend on room function and exposure to sunlight or humidity. Eggshell or satin finishes are popular for living areas; they balance durability and aesthetics without showing imperfections too quickly. Bathrooms and kitchens often benefit from semi-gloss paints that resist moisture and wipe clean easily.

Choosing the wrong gloss level can lead to early peeling, fading, and the need to repaint sooner than expected. That is why consulting with specialists at your local paint store in Los Angeles, CA, like Koontz Hardware, ensures you get a product perfectly matched to your environment.

The Importance of Surface Preparation for Lasting Paint Jobs

One of the mos t overlooked aspects of a successful paint project is proper surface preparation. In Los Angeles’ challenging climate, skipping or rushing this step can cause premature paint failure.

Surface preparation typically involves cleaning (removing dirt, dust, salt, and mildew), repairing any damaged areas like cracks or holes, and applying the right primer. Primers improve adhesion and seal porous surfaces, protecting against moisture intrusion and enhancing the paint’s lifespan.

At our paint store, Koontz Hardware experts offer advice on the best preparation methods and recommend primers specifically designed for Los Angeles’ weather patterns and common surface types. This step is especially important for exterior projects, where environmental exposure is most severe.

Tips for Maintaining Painted Surfaces in Los Angeles

Even the best paint can benefit from proper care over time, especially in LA’s climate. Maintaining painted surfaces can extend their life and keep your home looking fresh:

Regular Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and salt buildup can degrade paint over time. Gently clean exterior walls with water and mild detergent as needed, avoiding high-pressure washing that can damage paint.
Inspect for Damage: Periodically check for signs of peeling, cracking, or blistering, particularly after extreme weather events. Addressing issues early prevents more costly repairs.
Control Moisture: Use good ventilation in humid spaces like bathrooms to minimize mold and mildew growth on interior paint.
Repaint When Necessary: Over time, even the best paint will need refreshing. Choosing the right product initially and following these maintenance tips will maximize the time between projects.

How Koontz Hardware Supports Your Paint Projects

At Koontz Hardware, a trusted paint store, experience matters when selecting paint for Los Angeles homes. We understand the climate factors that affect paint performance and provide personalized product recommendations tailored to your specific project and location. Our knowledgeable team guides you step-by-step through color selection, product features, and application tips.

We prioritize clear communication so you know what to expect at every stage, reducing surprises. Quality and safety checks on our paint products give you confidence in long-lasting results. After your purchase, we provide advice on cleanup and maintenance, helping your investment last as long as possible.

Choosing Koontz Hardware means getting more than a paint supply store. It means partnering with experts who know how Los Angeles weather affects paint and who provide climate-ready solutions.

Related Tips for Choosing Paint Products in Los Angeles

Beyond sheen and formula, it is important to consider other factors influenced by the local environment:

Opt for paints labeled UV-resistant to combat the high sun exposure unique to LA.
Look for moisture and mildew-resistant additives for coastal areas and humid interiors.
Consider paints with flexible binders to prevent cracking caused by dry heat fluctuations.
Use primers suited for your surface type to improve paint adhesion and durability.

Our team at Koontz Hardware, your reliable paint store in Los Angeles, CA, is always available to answer technical questions and help match your needs.

Ready to Protect Your Home’s Finish? Contact Koontz Hardware Today

With intense UV rays, dry heat, and coastal moisture all taking their toll on paint in Los Angeles, it is essential to select the right product from the start. Sheen selection, paint formulation, and proper preparation all play key roles in a paint job’s longevity. Koontz Hardware stands out as the paint store Los Angeles, CA residents trust for comprehensive advice and climate-smart solutions.

Ready to begin your painting project with confidence? Contact Koontz Hardware today at (310) 652-0123 or visit our contact page to speak with an expert. Together, we will ensure your home’s paint thrives in Southern California’s unique weather conditions.

Paint Store Tips: The Importance of Choosing the Right Paint

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:00:07 GMT

When it comes to refreshing the look of your home, not all paints are created equal—especially for areas that get daily wear and tear. Custom home builders often recommend seeking expert guidance at a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, because durable, easy-to-clean finishes are essential for maintaining style without constant repainting. Whether you are a homeowner, a DIY enthusiast, or a landlord looking to keep interiors in great condition, the type of paint you choose matters just as much as the color.

What Makes High-Traffic Areas Different?

High-traffic areas in a home include hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, staircases, and children’s rooms. These spaces are more prone to fingerprints, scuffs, moisture, and frequent cleaning. A high-quality product from a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, can save you time and money in the long run by resisting stains and maintaining its finish even with heavy use.

The Basics of Paint Sheens

Paint is not just about color—it’s also about the finish, or sheen, which determines how the paint looks and performs. When you visit a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, you’ll encounter a variety of finishes, but the three most common are matte, satin, and gloss. Each has its own strengths and is best suited for specific rooms.

Matte Paint: Soft and Elegant, but Less Durable

Matte paint offers a smooth, non-reflective finish that hides imperfections on walls. It creates a warm, sophisticated look and is popular in bedrooms and living rooms. However, it is less durable than other options. Scrubbing can leave marks, so matte is not the best choice for hallways or playrooms. If you’re considering matte paint, a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, can recommend brands with improved scrub resistance.

Satin Paint: The Versatile Middle Ground

Satin paint strikes a balance between matte and gloss, offering a soft sheen with higher durability. It’s easy to clean, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and family rooms. When you ask for satin at a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, you’ll find it’s one of the most recommended options for high-traffic areas because it handles moisture and stains while still looking refined.

Gloss Paint: Durable and Eye-Catching

Gloss paint has a shiny, reflective finish that enhances trim, doors, and cabinets. Its durability makes it ideal for spaces that require frequent cleaning. However, gloss can highlight wall imperfections, so it’s best used sparingly. A knowledgeable paint store in Los Angeles, CA, can help you decide whether semi-gloss or full gloss is right for your project, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

Matching Paint Types to Rooms

Choosing the right finish for each room ensures both beauty and longevity. Here’s a quick guide to help:

Hallways & Entryways: Satin finish for durability and easy cleaning.
Kitchens: Satin or semi-gloss for moisture resistance and stain protection.
Bathrooms: Semi-gloss or gloss to handle humidity.
Bedrooms: Matte for a cozy feel, unless it’s a child’s room—then satin is better.
Living Rooms: Matte or satin, depending on style preferences.
Trim & Doors: Gloss for contrast and durability.

For tailored advice, visiting a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, ensures you get finishes that suit your home’s unique needs.

Why Paint Quality Matters as Much as Finish

Even the best sheen won’t hold up if the paint quality is low. Premium paints have stronger pigments, better adhesion, and longer lifespans. At a trusted paint store in Los Angeles, CA, you’ll find options that not only look great but also resist stains, fading, and peeling. High-quality paint means fewer coats, easier touch-ups, and long-term savings.

Tips for DIY Painters and First-Time Buyers

If you’re tackling the project yourself, preparation is key. Clean walls thoroughly, patch any imperfections, and use primer where necessary. When you buy from a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, ask about brushes, rollers, and tools that match your chosen finish. Satin and gloss, for example, benefit from high-quality rollers that minimize streaks. Matte may require more coats, so planning ahead ensures smooth coverage.

The Role of Professionals and Interior Designers

Interior designers and professional painters often rely on the expertise of a paint store in Los Angeles, CA, to achieve the best results. They understand how lighting affects sheen, how color interacts with finishes, and how durability plays into design. Whether you’re managing a rental property, decorating your first home, or updating a family space, consulting with experts helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Get Expert Help in Los Angeles

Choosing the right paint finish is about more than appearance—it’s about functionality, durability, and style. From matte’s soft elegance to satin’s versatility and gloss’s durability, each option has its place in the home. If you’re ready to refresh your interior, the experts at Koontz Hardware can guide you through the process. Visit this trusted paint store in Los Angeles, CA, explore top-quality finishes, and find the perfect match for your rooms. Contact us today at (310) 652-0123 and let Koontz Hardware help you transform your home with paint built to last.

Best Paint and Hardware Store in Los Angeles, CA

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 00:50:52 GMT

When it comes to finding the perfect paint store or a reliable hardware store in Los Angeles, CA, Koontz Hardware continues to be a trusted name for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Known for its top-tier selection of tools, paints, and expert services, Koontz Hardware offers a one-stop shop for all your home improvement needs.

Whether you’re refreshing a single room or tackling a major renovation, the quality of your materials matters. That’s why Koontz Hardware is proud to carry some of the most respected premium paint brands in the industry, including Benjamin Moore , Valspar , and Clark & Kensington . These brands are renowned for their vibrant finishes, long-lasting durability, and wide range of color options. Customers in Los Angeles, CA appreciate having these high-end choices available locally, ensuring they never have to compromise on quality.

Why Koontz Hardware Stands Out in LA

What sets Koontz Hardware apart from the average paint store is not just the variety of products, but the level of expertise and service provided. In a city as design-forward as Los Angeles, CA , finding the exact color match can make or break a project. That’s why Koontz Hardware offers expert color matching services designed to take the guesswork out of painting.

Using advanced technology and an experienced eye, the team can replicate any shade, texture, or finish with stunning accuracy. Whether you’re trying to match an old swatch, blend a new section into an existing wall, or duplicate a designer shade you fell in love with online, Koontz Hardware has the tools and skill to deliver flawless results.

In addition to high-quality paints and unmatched matching services, this well-stocked hardware store boasts an impressive inventory of tools, brushes, rollers, tapes, drop cloths, ladders, and other project essentials. Their staff is not only friendly, but also incredibly knowledgeable. From recommending the right primer to suggesting finishes for tricky surfaces, you’ll receive real advice from real experts.

A Paint and Hardware Destination for Los Angeles Homeowners

Serving the greater Los Angeles, CA area for decades, Koontz Hardware is more than a store—it’s a part of the local home improvement culture. Professionals in construction, interior design, and painting know the value of working with reliable products. Homeowners trust Koontz for weekend projects, kitchen makeovers, or even curb-appeal upgrades.

Plus, the store’s welcoming atmosphere and accessible layout make it easy to find what you need. Unlike big-box chains where service can be hit or miss, Koontz prides itself on creating a curated experience—one where quality and customer service are always the priority.

Looking for custom advice on what kind of paint is best for a stucco wall? Want to know whether satin or matte is best for a child’s bedroom? Need help locating the right finish for trim that gets a lot of traffic? The team at Koontz is ready with answers and recommendations you can trust.

Conclusion

If you're searching for the go-to paint store or hardware store in Los Angeles, CA , look no further than Koontz Hardware . From premium paint brands to expert color matching , the store offers everything you need to get your project done right the first time.

Ready to transform your space with the best products and support? Visit our website or call us today at (310) 652-0123 . Let Koontz Hardware be your trusted partner in every brushstroke and repair.

7 Reasons to Choose Door Screens in West Hollywood, CA

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:20:03 GMT

As a homeowner in West Hollywood, CA, you understand the importance of creating a comfortable, functional living space. One key element to enhance both the comfort and safety of your home is installing door screens in West Hollywood, CA . Whether you’re seeking protection from insects, improving airflow, or boosting your home's curb appeal, door screens offer numerous advantages.

7 Reasons Why Door Screens Are a Must-Have for Your Home

1. Keep Insects Out While Enjoying Fresh Air
West Hollywood’s beautiful weather makes it tempting to open your doors and enjoy fresh air, but that also invites insects like mosquitoes, flies, and other pests into your home. Door screens act as a barrier, allowing you to enjoy the breeze without worrying about unwanted guests.

2. Enhance Your Home's Curb Appeal
In addition to their functional benefits, door screens come in a wide range of styles and designs that can complement the aesthetics of your home. Whether you prefer a sleek modern look or a more traditional style, there’s a door screen that can add charm and sophistication to your entryway. Choosing the right screen door can make a noticeable difference in the overall appearance of your home, increasing its curb appeal.

3. Increase Home Energy Efficiency
A door screen can also help keep your home more energy-efficient. During the warmer months, it can reduce the need for air conditioning by allowing natural ventilation and reducing heat buildup. On cooler days, door screens help to preserve the warmth in your home while still allowing for airflow. This means you can enjoy a comfortable indoor climate year-round.

4. Easy to Install and Maintain
Installing door screens is a simple process that doesn't require significant time or effort. Many models are designed for easy installation, and with basic tools, you can quickly fit them into your existing door frames. Maintenance is also a breeze—regular cleaning and occasional checks for any damage will keep your screen doors in excellent condition.

5. Improve Home Safety
If you have children or pets, door screens provide an added layer of safety. They keep your loved ones inside the house while still allowing you to open your doors and get fresh air. This is especially useful when you want to avoid the risk of your pets running out or your children wandering off.

6. Privacy Without Sacrificing Light
While you may want some privacy at home, you don’t want to sacrifice the natural light that brightens up your space. Door screens provide a perfect solution by allowing sunlight to filter in while still keeping prying eyes out. This makes them a great option for front and back doors, providing both privacy and plenty of natural light during the day.

7. Cost-Effective Investment
Compared to other home improvement projects, installing door screens is a cost-effective way to enhance your home. They are affordable, especially when considering the long-term benefits like improved air quality, energy savings, and increased home value. Given the protection they offer from the elements and pests, door screens provide a high return on investment for homeowners.

Why Choose Koontz Hardware for Your Door Screen Needs?

When you're ready to add door screens to your West Hollywood home, choosing a reputable supplier is essential. Koontz Hardware is your go-to destination for quality door screens and home improvement supplies. With a wide variety of high-quality options, you can find the perfect screen to match your needs and style.

Don’t wait any longer to enhance your home’s comfort and curb appeal with door screens. Contact Koontz Hardware today to explore your options and get started on your next home improvement project!

Why Koontz Hardware Is the Top Hardware Store in Los Angeles

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:10:27 GMT

When tackling a home renovation, finding the right tools and materials is essential to success. As a trusted hardware store in Los Angeles, CA , Koontz Hardware has become the go-to destination for homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts alike. With a vast selection of high-quality products, expert staff, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Koontz Hardware has everything you need for your next renovation project.

A Legacy of Excellence at the Hardware Store in Los Angeles, CA

Koontz Hardware has served the Los Angeles community for decades, establishing itself as a reliable source for all hardware and home improvement needs. Conveniently located in the heart of Los Angeles, this family-owned business offers personalized service that large chain stores simply can’t match. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, renovating a bathroom, or tackling outdoor projects, Koontz Hardware’s knowledgeable team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

A One-Stop Shop for Renovation Needs at the Hardware Store in Los Angeles, CA

Renovation projects ; often require diverse materials and tools, and Koontz Hardware is well-equipped to meet those demands. From power tools to eco-friendly paint, you’ll find top-tier brands and products that cater to every aspect of your project. The store’s extensive inventory includes:

Hand tools and power tools for every skill level.
Plumbing and electrical supplies to complete any upgrade.
High-quality paints, stains, and finishes for a polished look.
Garden and outdoor equipment for landscaping projects.

By offering a wide range of items under one roof, Koontz Hardware ensures that you save time and money without compromising on quality.

Expert Advice You Can Trust

Renovation projects can be challenging, especially if you’re taking a DIY approach. That’s where the expertise of Koontz Hardware’s staff makes all the difference. With years of experience in the industry, their team provides invaluable advice and tailored recommendations to help you choose the right materials and tools. Whether you’re deciding on the best type of wood for a custom cabinet or figuring out how to tackle plumbing repairs, you can trust Koontz Hardware to point you in the right direction.

Why Choose Koontz Hardware?

There are plenty of options when searching for a hardware store in Los Angeles, CA, but Koontz Hardware stands out for several reasons:

Exceptional Customer Service: You’re treated like family from the moment you walk in.
Premium Products: Only the best brands and materials are stocked to ensure lasting results.
Community-Focused: As a local business, Koontz Hardware is deeply invested in supporting the Los Angeles community.
Convenient Location: Easy access for residents across the city.

Start Your Renovation Journey at the Hardware Store in Los Angeles, CA

No matter the size of your renovation project, Koontz Hardware is here to help. As the leading hardware store in Los Angeles, CA, they combine high-quality products with expert advice to empower you to bring your vision to life. Visit their store to browse their extensive inventory or reach out to their friendly team for personalized assistance. Ready to get started? Contact Koontz Hardware today and begin your renovation journey with the right tools and materials!

How to Choose the Right Door Screen in West Hollywood for Your Home

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:47:49 GMT

Door screens in West Hollywood, CA , are essential for creating a comfortable living space that balances fresh air with protection against pests and outdoor debris. Whether you’re upgrading an existing screen or installing a new one, choosing the right door screen involves considering your home's style, functionality needs, and West Hollywood’s unique climate. This guide will help homeowners make the best choice.

Why Door Screens in West Hollywood, CA, Matter

Door screens not only enhance your home’s ventilation but also serve as a barrier against insects and dirt. In West Hollywood, where warm weather and outdoor living are staples, a high-quality door screen can significantly improve your home’s comfort and usability.

Types of Door Screens in West Hollywood, CA

When shopping for door screens in West Hollywood, CA, consider the various types available:

1. Traditional Fixed Screens

These are the most common door screens and are ideal for homeowners who prioritize durability and simplicity. Fixed screens are made of materials like fiberglass or aluminum, offering excellent ventilation and pest control.

2. Retractable Screens

Retractable screens are perfect for modern homes. These screens roll out of sight when not in use, making them an excellent option for patios or French doors. Their sleek design complements contemporary aesthetics.

3. Magnetic Screens

Magnetic door screens are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for renters or those seeking a temporary solution. They use magnets to close securely and are lightweight and functional.

4. Pet-Friendly Screens

For households with pets, pet-resistant screens made from tougher materials like vinyl-coated polyester are a great choice. These screens withstand clawing and are designed to be more durable than standard options.

Choosing the Right Material for Door Screens in West Hollywood, CA

The material of your door screen significantly impacts its performance and longevity. Here are the most common materials and their benefits:

Fiberglass : Lightweight, affordable, and resistant to rust and corrosion, fiberglass is a popular choice for residential door screens.
Aluminum : Durable and long-lasting, aluminum screens are ideal for areas with high traffic or exposure to harsh elements.
Stainless Steel : Best for security screens, stainless steel offers superior strength and protection against intrusions.
Solar Screens : Designed to block UV rays, these screens are excellent for reducing indoor heat and glare, making them ideal for sunny climates like West Hollywood.

Professional Installation or DIY for Door Screens in West Hollywood, CA?

For homeowners in West Hollywood, professional installation ensures your door screens are securely fitted and functioning optimally. While DIY installation may save money, professional services often provide a more polished result.

Maintenance Tips

Once installed, maintaining your screen doors is key to ensuring they last. Clean them regularly with mild soap and water, check for tears or damages, and repair them promptly. Retractable screens require occasional lubrication to keep mechanisms running smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right door screens in West Hollywood, CA, is about finding the perfect balance between style, durability, and functionality. At Koontz Hardware, we offer a wide range of door screens tailored to meet your needs.

Have questions or need help selecting the right screen for your home? Contact us today , and let our experts guide you to the best solution.

Easy Steps to Becoming a DIY Expert

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 16:57:42 GMT

Whether to save money on home repairs or simply to be more self-sufficient, there are many reasons to become a DIY expert. Fortunately, acquiring the skills needed to tackle home improvement projects is not as difficult as it may seem. With patience and practice, anyone can learn to be a DIY expert. Here are tips that'll help you.

Start Small

The best way to start is by tackling small projects around your home that you feel comfortable with. For example, you might start by fixing a leaking faucet or painting a small room. As you become more confident in your abilities, you can gradually move on to larger projects.

Just remember to take your time and be patient. Along the way, educate yourself on the best practices for various DIY tasks. As you complete each project, you'll learn new skills that you can apply to larger projects down the road.

Conduct Thorough Research

Before attempting any sort of DIY project, do your research. Not every project is as simple as it seems, and some can even be dangerous if not done correctly. Once you've decided on a project, take the time to read up on it. Look for online tutorials, watch videos, and read any available instructions.

Consult with someone experienced in the area. Even if you don't have any friends or family who are experts, most hardware stores have staff members who would be happy to answer any questions. By educating yourself on the process, you can avoid making costly mistakes or putting yourself in danger.

Reinforce Safety

Reinforcing safety should be a priority for anyone attempting a DIY project. Be well-equipped with safety gear such as protective glasses, gloves, boots, masks, or respirators. In addition, make sure you are familiar with the risks involved in your project and take steps to minimize them.

For example, if you're working with power tools, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and unplug the tool when not in use. Taking these precautions can prevent accidents and ensure a successful DIY project.

Join DIY Communities

One of the best ways to become a DIY expert is to join one of the many online DIY communities. These communities are full of experienced DIYers eager to share their knowledge with others.

Another great way to become a DIY expert is to read blogs and watch videos from experienced DIYers. You'll learn new techniques and get ideas for projects.

Get the Right Tools

Not only will the right tools make the job easier, but they can also help to prevent damage to your home and possessions.

When it comes to essential DIY tools, every household should have a basic toolkit that includes a hammer, screwdrivers, a set of pliers, and a level. In addition, investing in some power tools — such as a drill or a circular saw — is a good idea. With the right tools at your disposal, you'll be well on your way to becoming a DIY expert.

Create a Detailed Plan for Each Project

Before you start any project, sit down and create a detailed plan to determine the scope of the project, and how much time and money you'll need to invest.

Most importantly, make sure you have a clear vision for the final product. What do you want it to look like? Creating a Pinterest board can help you get a good idea of the overall aesthetic you're going for.

An essential part of creating your plan learning to manage your time. Knowing when to take breaks and when to push through will be the difference between completing a project on schedule and falling behind.

You are now on your way to becoming a DIY expert. For all your DIY supplies and tools, be sure to contact us . We would be more than happy to help you with all your projects, big and small.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Home Tools

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 19:56:26 GMT

Tools in your home save time and help you to complete DIY projects. While the tools are beneficial, continued use can reduce their effectiveness and functionality. Proper maintenance of tools helps deliver precision and can increase the tool's lifespan.

Find out tips on how to take care of your home tools.

Be Kind to Your Tools

Although most tools can withstand extreme impact and resistance, you do not have to test these attributes. Instead, be gentle when handling your tools, and do not drop them too hard.

Similarly, only use your tools for their intended purposes. If you are in doubt, consult the user manual for proper tool usage.

Keep Them Sharp

Your tools will only be highly effective if they are sharp. Always sharpen your tools immediately after use instead of just before use. If you sharpen your tools too often, they will begin to wear down quickly.

Also, know the proper way to sharpen your tools. For example, sharpen single bevel tools on the beveled section to increase durability.

Protect From Moisture

You do not want your new tools to become ineffective immediately after you buy them due to rust. Even if your tools are corrosion-resistant, continued exposure to moisture may eventually cause rust. The key is to store your tools in a dry place free of any moisture. That place can be your basement or garage.

Clean Tools After Use

After you have used tools all day long, you might barely have any energy to clean your tools. However, the time spent on tool cleaning is usually way less than on repairing tools.

Some of the common ways to clean tools include:

Washing tools and oiling them whenever necessary
Putting the tools in a bucket containing a mixture of sand and oil
Using a brush to wipe the dust off the tools and lubricate any moving sections

Also, clean toolboxes now and then to prevent dust accumulation.

Inspect Your Tools

Tool inspection is essential, particularly for tools susceptible to damage. Once you use each tool, quickly inspect it to identify new damage.

Pay special attention to cutting edges and blades, and check if these parts have any dents or nicks. If the tools have bolts and nuts, check for looseness and immediately fix it.

If you notice any corrosion or rust on your tools, try to remove the rust. Similarly, power tools can experience cracks on the handles, while plugs and cords can become loose. Failure to quickly fix a damaged power cord can result in fire.

Finally, check the user manual for inspecting your tools.

Maintain Batteries

Most home tools use batteries as a power source, but the batteries are often costly. If you want your tools to serve you for a long time, you must properly take care of the batteries. One maintenance strategy is to store the batteries in a controlled environment with a regulated temperature.

Environments with a lot of heat can reduce battery performance, so protect your batteries from direct sunlight.

Also, if the batteries are rechargeable, recharge them before they completely drain.

Lubricate Tools

Tool performance depends on the proper movement of its various components. When you lubricate your tools, you prevent problems such as chaffing that can cause damage. Fortunately, most tools have a manual explaining the lubrication process and the steps to follow.

Get High-Quality Tools

Do you have a project in your home you think you can complete on your own? You will need specific tools to do the job.

You can get many of these tools from Koontz Hardware at affordable rates. Contact us for more information.

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Repainting Kitchen Cabinets | Koontz Hardware

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 18:51:13 GMT

Have your kitchen cabinets seen better days? If you're ready to upgrade your kitchen but don't have the budget to replace your cabinets, take a look at what you need to know about repainting kitchen cabinetry.

What Materials Do You Need to Repaint Kitchen Cabinets?

The first step in the remodeling process is to choose and buy the materials. If you don't already have an electric or battery-powered drill, you will need one for this project. While you could use a screwdriver to remove doors and hardware from your kitchen cabinets, this manual method will take more time and energy.

Along with the tools that you'll need for this job, you will also need a cleaner or degreaser. Never paint dirty or grease-streaked cabinetry. Leftover food debris or oily streaks will make it difficult for the paint to evenly coat the cabinets or stick to the surfaces. A gentle dishwashing liquid and water or a degreaser can remove stuck-on messes. These cleaning products won't help to clear old paint or varnishes. You will need to buy sandpaper or a sanding sponge to smooth each cabinet's surface.

After you buy the prep materials, you will need to focus on the items that will help you to paint the surfaces of the cabinets. These include paint rollers, brushes, paint trays, painter's tape, a drop cloth, a high-quality primer, and paint.

Which Paint Is the Right Choice for This Project?

You want to create a clean, smooth finish. But you're not sure which type of paint can help you to achieve this goal. Make sure that the paint is made for wooden surfaces, and choose the best sheen for your kitchen. An eggshell or satin latex paint sheen provides a moderately shiny or glossy look. These sheens are also easy to clean. If you prefer a more reflective type of surface, consider a high-gloss paint.

Which Color Is the Right Choice for This Project?

Some homeowners prefer a natural wood aesthetic or a neutral palette, while others choose bright, bold, or dramatically dark shades. If the cabinets are already a darker color, you may need more paint (and more primer) to cover the original hue. But if the cabinets are a light wood or light color, you can select almost any option without the need for more than a few coats.

The cabinet color doesn't need to match the rest of your kitchen accents — but it can. You could pick up pops of color in specific areas and coordinate the cabinets with the countertops, shelving units, or backsplash. If this idea doesn't appeal to you, consider a monochromatic aesthetic that weaves shades of one color throughout the kitchen, or take the opposite approach and paint the cabinets with a stand-out color.

Should You Replace the Hardware?

You've removed the doors, painted the cabinets, and let your work dry. Now that you're ready to replace the freshly painted doors, you're not sure whether you should reuse the existing hardware or buy new pieces.

Replace rusted, corroded, or broken hardware. You may also want to replace hardware that looks dated or doesn't match your kitchen's new aesthetic. But if the old hardware is in good condition and works well with the upgraded design, you can save money by reusing these items. This eco-friendly approach provides you with a way to upcycle almost everything from your old kitchen cabinets.

Do you need help choosing your kitchen cabinet paint project materials? Contact Koontz Hardware for more information on our paint and supplies. We can help you get everything that you need to repaint your kitchen cabinets.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Patio Looking Great All Year Round

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 15:59:09 GMT

As a homeowner, your patio is often the best place to sit and enjoy your day. However, because patios come from different materials with many models and styles, keeping yours looking great all year round can be hectic. Discover simple ways to ensure your patio looks great all year round, regardless of the weather or material.

Sweep, Wash, and Paint It Regularly

Depending on where the patio is, sometimes to keep it looking incredibly clean and inviting demands regular activities like sweeping and washing. For instance, your deck is likely prone to dirt from leaves and debris during seasonal changes, especially on its pavers. Leaves and twigs can adversely affect the patio's aesthetics, mainly when they cause cracks and holes.

With time, these cracks can destroy the look of the deck, which also affects the look of your surroundings. When this happens, it can easily affect the value of your property. Therefore, to ensure the appearance of your home does not keep away visitors, sweep your patio regularly. Remove leaves, twigs, and dust on its surface. Afterward, wash stuck debris off and paint it.

Moreover, if you decide to paint your patio, pick quality patio paint. One option is gloss enamel porch and deck paint. Unlike other colors, gloss enamel patio paint prevents tear and wear and enables your patio to withstand extreme heat and cold. For example, the paint contains low-luster acrylic features that help your patio boost its durability, especially by resisting peeling, fading, and other imperfections.

Add a Floral Arrangement

Flowers are also a great way of enhancing the look of your outdoor surroundings. Find flowers that best suit your property aesthetics, especially the color schemes. For instance, if you have a colorful painting hanging in front of your patio and deck, placing a fresh bouquet with mixed colors easily ups the appearance of your space.

Seal Your Patio Pavers

Like sealing your driveways and walkways, sealing your patio pavers helps boost their lifespan. The top reason your patio does not last is damaging elements like mold and mildew. Besides mildew and mold, unsealed patio pavers suffer from soil erosion, weeds, discoloration, and becoming loose. Fortunately, your patio probably will not suffer these problems when you seal your pavers.

Moreover, to correctly seal your patio pavers, you will need the help of an effective sealant. With the suitable sealant, you will effortlessly create a topcoat that prevents stains and dirt from getting underneath the patio. The sealant can also provide your patio pavers with stylish appearances and help you easily identify dirt and dust.

So, when you want to seal your patio pavers, go for a solvent-based choice. This type of sealant for smooth, non-porous, and rough surfaces does not add an unpleasant sealant appearance. On top of that, when the sealant dries on your patio, it helps it look smoother and shining with an inviting texture that is easy to clean and decorate.

Let an Expert Help Keep Your Patio Great

Although you can maintain your patio alone, professionals always know the common problems that can destroy not just the appearance but also the lifespan of your adorable patio. So, before problems worsen, get the help of a technician, especially from a reliable hardware store, to help you out.

Luckily, at Koontz Hardware, we always have the right solutions regardless of the problems facing your patio. With us, every time your patio suffers damages or anything that risks destroying its appearance, you can depend on an expert to help you. Contact us for excellent patio services beyond anticipation. We look forward to helping you with your patio needs.

Paint Finishes and Sheens: What to Know

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 19:30:14 GMT

Which paint sheen is the right option for your next home improvement project? Are you ready to repaint? Have you already chosen the perfect colors? Even though a palette of the just-right shades is essential, this is not the only paint selection you need to make. Before you invest in gallons of interior latex paint, take a look at what you need to know about sheens or finishes.

What Different Finishes Are Available?

Residential interior latex products are available in five primary types of finishes. These include matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss.

Matte is a flat, shine-free type of paint. If you prefer some shine but not too much of it, consider an eggshell. This finish has much more shine than a matte paint. Unlike glossier paints, an eggshell still has some flat qualities.

Satin paint is the next step up in shine (above an eggshell). This type of finish has a glossier look — minus a full sheen. For a shinier or reflective look, choose a semi-gloss or gloss paint. These finishes have the highest sheen levels.

Why Are There Different Paint Finishes?

Why do paint manufacturers create so many different choices? Manufacturers do not create different sheens just to confuse the customer. Instead, each finish has its own qualities and intended use. This makes it possible to choose different finishes for different parts of the house.

Which Finish Is the Best Option?

Some finishes hide imperfections better than others. Likewise, some sheens are easier to clean. Other sheens may simply look better in specific areas of your home.

While you can use any finish anywhere in your home's interior, eggshell is traditionally the best choice for lived-in spaces (such as a living room or playroom). The flatness of an eggshell can hide imperfections on the wall — while the slight sheen can make the paint easier to clean. If your walls have patch marks, bumps, ridges, or other smaller but noticeable aesthetic issues, consider a flat, shine-free finish.

High-mess spaces, such as kitchens, often require a satin or semi-gloss. These sheens will not hide the imperfections in your walls well. Even though semi-glosses do not conceal aesthetic issues, this type of sheen is easy to clean.

Like a semi-gloss, a gloss is also easy to clean. But this finish may seem too shiny or stand out too much on a wall. Instead of a full wall, consider using gloss paint on trim or one area that you want to highlight. Not only is a semi-gloss or gloss easy to clean, but these finishes are also highly durable and long-lasting. This may mean you do not need to repaint your walls anytime soon.

Where Can You Find the Sheen You Want?

If you have chosen the color and sheen, now what? The next step is to buy your paint. Even though each sheen category has its own qualities, not all paint products are the same. A subpar paint will not give you the color or finish you expect. It also may not stand up to a kitchen mess or your regular cleaning routine.

Instead of buying paint from just any big box store or online retailer, choose a hardware or home improvement supply store that carries high-quality products. Look for a knowledgeable staff member who can guide you through the selection process and help you to choose the brand and finish that meet your needs.

Are you ready to repaint your home's interior? Do you need help choosing the perfect paint color, finish, or product for your living room, kitchen, bathroom, or playroom? Contact Koontz Hardware today for more information.

Vintage Video Game Consoles and Décor | Koontz Hardware

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 19:09:35 GMT

Paint for the Nursery | Koontz Hardware

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:13:22 GMT

Are you expecting - and ready to decorate your soon-to-be baby's new nursery? Before you stock up on paint, brushes, and everything else you'll need for this home improvement project, take a look at what you need to know about nurseries, decor, and the products that can make this job easier.

Do You Need to Paint Your Nursery Pink and Blue?

These traditional baby colors aren't the staple of nursery decor anymore. While you can choose pink or blue, you can also select any other hue for your baby's new room. If pink and blue are out in the traditional old-fashioned sense, what colors should you choose for a nursery?

The color palette you select depends on a few factors. These include:

Your personal preference. You have years until your child has their own favorite color. This means you can pick your number one hue for their room right now.
The rest of the room. Do you want to keep the wall-to-wall carpeting in place? Do you already have curtains and a bedding set? If the room already has an existing palette, coordinate the wall color with the existing hues.
The light. Avoid a cave-like nursery with a lighter palette. Trade deep maroons and navy blues for light purples, periwinkle, and other similar colors.
Your baby's vision. Your baby may have color vision by the time they turn five months old, according to the American Optometric Association. Even though they won't see bold hues as a newborn, vivid colors can stimulate their senses as they grow.

If you can settle on one color, don't. Make a statement with one bold-colored wall and keep the rest neutral, use paint to create stripes or a multi-colored pattern, or paint the walls, trim, and doors different hues.

What Type of Paint Is Best for a Baby's Room?

Color isn't the only choice you will need to make. Along with the overall room palette, you will also need to decide on a paint type, brand, and sheen. If you're not sure where to start, consider:

No VOCs. Volatile organic compounds (also known as VOCs) are a no-go in your baby's nursery. VOCs can cause nose, throat, or eye irritation, central nervous system damage, or make breathing difficult, according to the American Lung Association. Look for a zero VOC paint product.
A water-based paint. Most no-VOC paints are water-based. But not all water-based (also known as latex) paints are no-VOC. Read the label and talk to the hardware or home improvement retailer before you select a product.
A satin or semi-gloss finish. These sheens are typically easier to clean than a matte type of paint. This makes it easy to wipe splashes, spills, or anything else off your nursery walls.

There is no one best paint brand. Discuss the pros and cons, such as quality and price, of each brand with a salesperson at your favorite home improvement store before you choose one paint manufacturer.

What Else Do You Need to Paint the Nursery?

Even though paint is the primary product you'll need, it isn't the only item you'll pick up at the home improvement store. To redecorate with paint, you will also need:

A drop cloth or tarp. This protective cover can keep your wood or carpeted floor safe and reduce the risks from paint spills.
Brushes. The types and sizes of brushes you need depend on what kind of paint you choose and what you want to paint. A sash or tapered brush is ideal for painting trim and framing. Polyester and blended nylon-polyester brushes often work well with latex (water-based) paints.
Rollers. Covering four full walls and a ceiling with small-sized brushes could take you hours or days. Instead, buy a few paint rollers (with telescopic or extendable handles) and roller covers.

You will also need painter's tape for trim, borders, or patterns and a paint tray. Do you want to dress up the decor and add lettering, shapes, borders, or other painted designs? To create these effects, you'll need to buy stencils or templates.

Is your nursery room project list ready to go? Contact Koontz Hardware for more information on products.

How to Choose the Right Paint Color for Each Space

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 16:04:52 GMT

When you own a house, or you're one of the renters lucky enough to make more significant changes to your space, a coat of paint on the walls can really make the place feel more like home. The decision as to what color to paint the walls is never easy, as it can completely transform the look and feel of the space in a variety of ways.

Fortunately, with a few basic principles in mind, you can select the perfect paint color for any room. Read on for helpful tips to assist you in the decision process.

1. Mood
If you've ever wondered why yellow is associated with happiness and red with anger, there's a scientific reason for these attributions. Colors are more than just visual traits. Different hues impact the way you feel. Color psychology is very real, and different visual tones each carry an emotional tone, too.

Bright colors, such as yellow and orange, can energize and invigorate your household, for example, which can be excellent choices for an office, bathroom, or dining area. For a clean, calm space, you may want to go for a soft gray, white, cream, pink, or blue.

Keep in mind that each color, regardless of its psychological meaning, can be as muted or as bright as you choose. For example, a color like green, which is typically associated with feelings of positivity, can be used to animate a space with a bright, nearly fluorescent hue or tone a space down with a soft, mossy shade.

2. Decor
Unless you intend to build your room's decor around your new choice of paint color, you should take a few cues from the items, patterns, and colors you already have in your space.

It can be helpful to bring in a throw pillow or a few photographs of your furniture to the hardware store when you select paint samples to take home to ensure you choose a shade that will complement the existing decor in your space.

3. Trends
Some wall colors are timeless, while others rise and fall in popularity. Trendy colors can add a lot of personality to a space, and they can be great options for a bedroom, bathroom, living room, or kitchen - especially if the space already incorporates other trendy colors in furniture or household accouterments.

If trendy wall colors aren't your thing, opt for warm gray, soft white, navy, grayish-green, and tinted cream hues. The neutral colors are more timeless and can complement any trends you choose to incorporate.

4. Budget
If you've opted to paint your space as a budget-friendly refresh in lieu of other more expensive home improvement options, you may want to consider some colors over others. As a rule, one gallon of paint will cover about 400 square feet of wall space, but you could need more if you need to paint over an intense existing color, if you will need a second coat, or if the color you choose will require even more coverage to achieve the look you're after.

To maximize your paint budget, choose colors for larger rooms that can be applied with one or two coats and save more labor and resource-intensive jobs for rooms with less coverage area.

5. Professional Consultation
You may know you want to paint the walls of your hallway a greige color, but the sheer number of paint chips at the store can become easily daunting. Sometimes, the decision to select the perfect wall color may call for a second opinion. Paint experts at your local hardware store can help you to find the best color for your walls, and they can also advise you with regard to the right sheen, paint type, and formula for your space.

For assistance on color selection, the professionals at Koontz Hardware can help. Stop in today for a consultation and choose the best color for your space.

4 Easy Ways to Prepare Your Home for Extra Guests During the Fall Season

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 22:00:24 GMT

The fall season includes a lot of opportunities for families to come over, visit, and stay for extended amounts of time. As you prepare to have guests over, ensure your home is accommodating and you have everything you need to provide a good time. Some upgrades and changes to your home will make a big difference.

Check out some of the easiest ways to prepare your home for extra guests and how to implement those changes through simple purchases or small projects.

1. Cookware Upgrades
When more people stay in the house, you will have bigger portions to prepare. Chances are, the current pots and pans you own are not large enough to accommodate the bigger meals. Take some time to go through your current kitchen inventory and determine what pans you should upgrade.

For example, if you make soup or boil large batches of potatoes, then you should consider huge pots like a stockpot. The taller pot can hold items and cook everything at once instead of separating the food into different portions. Also, consider casserole dishes to hold more while you bake.

If you bake desserts, then large cooling racks will hold cooked items as you plan to bake another round of cookies, brownies, or other treats. The new items will help keep a flow going in the kitchen and reduce the extra time necessary to prepare extra food.
Look at the appliances you own as well. A coffee maker that brews larger pots or holds extra water for single-serve cups will help with your morning routine.

2. Charging Stations
Traveling to your house may include a lot of portable gadgets. Instead of having everyone battle for outlets to charge devices, create some dedicated charging stations in your home. One of the easiest ways to create a dedicated charging station is through an outlet expander. An outlet expansion plug includes extra outlets along with USB ports.

Purchase some standard USB-B, USB-C, and lighting cables so everyone has access to charge their devices. Use a TV tray or serving tray to easily set devices down on and plug in at a designated area. This will prevent scattered devices and cords all around your home.

If your guests have kids, then consider safety outlets like spring-loaded outlets that block off open outlets when the plugs are not in use.

3. Night Lighting Options
Guests at your home may not know their way around the house, especially in the darkness of night. Provide easy navigation and ways around with lighting upgrades in the home. Purchase light bulbs compatible with dimmer switches. Instead of keeping lights fully on all night, provide dim lights throughout the home.

LED night lights can plug into hallway outlets and provide illumination near areas like stairs and bathrooms. Consider temporarily installing LED strips along the edges of the floor. The light strips provide an easy way to see through hallways and dark areas. You could also run the lights down staircases as well.

4. Laundry Accessories
The longer guests stay at your house, the more laundry will pile up. Help keep your laundry room organized with some accessories. A rolling rack allows guests to hang up items straight out of the dryer and keep them organized without invading your own laundry area.

You could also purchase a small shelf for a person to put folded clothes and items. When guests arrive, you can over the laundry process so everyone is on the same page and understands what to do with their laundry.

Find all of the items for your home at our large Koontz Hardware store. We have a massive amount of inventory, and our store is broken down into different sections to help you find exactly what you are looking for.

A Hardware Store Guide for Video Game Fanatics

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 16:53:01 GMT

If you're a gamer, then you understand the world of video games includes a lot more than just playing the game. Proper care and organization will ensure your gaming experience is ideal each time you go to play. A hardware store has a lot of items geared towards a gamer. Use this guide to help find what you need.

Micro Screwdriver Set
There may come a point where you need to make adjustments, repairs, or upgrades to your video game hardware and accessories. When you become experienced enough, you can attempt these changes on your own. Video game hardware tends to use small screwdrivers to keep products in place.

The best solution is to have a micro screwdriver set on hand. You do not want to force standard screwdrivers into the small holes or you will risk the possibility of a stripped screw that becomes impossible to move. A micro screwdriver set includes a number of screwdriver sizes so you always have the right ones on hand.

Some of the sets also include extra screwdrivers or tips that feature different shapes for the tip. Some hardware companies may use screws that do not feature the standard cross-shaped tip. Once you purchase a set, you will have the proper tools to adjust control drift, clean out debris, and keep your video games running smoothly for years.

Rechargeable Battery Sets
Older controllers, remote controls, and other video game accessories typically run on disposable batteries. The last thing you want to worry about is a set of dead batteries that prevents you from playing games. Hardware stores will often include a battery section. Look for a set of rechargeable batteries.

Look for a set that includes double the amount of batteries you need. For example, you may need two AA batteries for a controller and three AAA batteries for a video game accessory. While the devices use the original five batteries, have another five in the charger. When the main batteries die, you can easily swap them out and do not lose any game time.

The battery sets often come with a charger that will hold the whole set. Look for chargers with indicator lights so you know exactly when your batteries are fully charged.

Surge Protectors
A power surge could create major damage to your video game console. Whether you have an older console or a newer console, keep the hardware protected from damage. A surge protector power strip adds the protection and gives you extra plugs for your consoles.

If you own multiple consoles, you do not need to worry about constantly swapping plugs just to switch to a different console. Keep everything plugged in and go from game to game without any major delays or annoyances.

Dust Removal Products
Dust buildup inside game consoles could lead to overheating or poor performance. Keep your console going smoothly with various dust removal products. One of the easiest products to find at a hardware store is a can of compressed air. Shaped like a spray paint can, the air nozzle will loosen dust and can clean out vent areas of a video game console.

You could also purchase a set of microfiber cloths. The clothes will help remove dust and cobwebs on the exterior of consoles. Use the clothes on shelves and game cases as well. Dust and clean your game area at least once every couple of weeks. Set reminders to ensure the task gets done and your video game area remains in mint condition.

Shop with us at Koontz Hardware to find all of your hardware tools and accessories for video games. We have a massive selection of products and plenty of items to help transform your primary gaming area.

A Tool Shopping Guide for Left-Handed People

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:50:22 GMT

About 11% of the world's population is left-handed. This means that a majority of tools and equipment are designed and manufactured for right-handed people. In many cases, tools like hammers or screwdrivers are ambidextrous and can flip from one hand to the next with ease. In other cases, left-handers have to make adjustments or changes to hold tools.

Avoid discomfort and build a toolbox full of tools geared towards left-handers. The shopping guide will go over differences in specific tools and what to look for to avoid common annoyances and pains.

Utility Knives & Safety Cutters
Utility knives are used to cut boxes, small pieces of material, and certain wires. Left-handers need to either hold the blade in the opposite direction or have the blade button adjustment press into the palm of the hand while cutting. A lefthanded utility knife faces the blade in the proper downward position and the adjustment button aligns with the left thumb.

The comfort makes it a lot easier for someone to make accurate cuts with the blade. You do not need to take extra time to adjust your grip and can reduce delays while you work.

Tape Measures
The same problem found with utility knives is also found through tape measures. When a left-handed person uses a tape measure naturally, all of the numbers will appear upside down. You may take longer to get proper measurements or be forced to use the right hand as a dominant hand.

A left-handed tape measure reverses the whole design of the tape measure. With the clip on the opposite side, you also have the ability to easily place the tape measure on your left side and grab the tape measure when needed. The tape measures are often labeled as lefty versions so you do not mix them up with other tools in the house.

Industrial Scissors
One of the more uncomfortable right-handed tools to use is a pair of scissors. When the blades do not face the correct direction, you either end up cramming fingers into a thumb hole or using the scissors upside down. A pair of lefthanded industrial scissors give you accurate cuts and complete comfort for the left hand.

Industrial scissors can cut through basic materials like paper or stronger materials like thick plastics and metals. When you shop for left-handed scissors, check out the garden section for other left-handed cutting tools. Left-handed garden shears feature a comfortable grip and reverse blade to cut through weeds, roots, and plants.

Tool Box
If you live with other people in your home, it's a good idea to keep your left-handed tools in a separate tool bag or box. This way, you will not have to mix up the tools or accidentally grab the wrong tool. The separation also prevents right-handers from grabbing the wrong tools. Left-handed tools create discomfort for right-handers the same way regular tools do for left-handers.

Find a way to designate the toolbox using specific colors or labels. With everything in one spot, you have easy access and can build your collection through the years.

Left-Handed Drill Bits
As you shop through a hardware store, one item that may stand out are left-handed drill bits. The bits may have a left-handed label but are not actually made for left-handed tool users. The bits refer to the way they are cut. Left-handed bits are cut in the opposite direction and used to help remove bolts, screws, and nails that are stuck, worn, or stripped.

The drill bits are not an essential part of a left-handed tool kit, so you can skip out on them when building your collection.

Browse the thousands of tools we have to offer at Koontz Hardware . We can help you find tools catered to left-handers and power tools that work the same no matter what your dominant hand is.

3 Home Projects to Help You Adjust to Shorter Days

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:43:54 GMT

As the autumn season rolls around, the days become shorter as the sun sets earlier. Darkness falls even faster after daylight savings time ends and clocks move back an hour. Instead of feeling shrouded in darkness, immerse yourself into home projects that help add extra light and get you through the longer nights.

Check out some project ideas for your home and living situation.

1. LED Strip Lights
As night falls, certain areas of your home become darker than others. Instead of turning on all the lights in a home, rely on LED strip lights to illuminate specific locations. LED strip lights come in many sizes, and the strips are often adjustable to fit in specific areas.

As you shop for the strip lights, look for lights that can connect through smartphones or via a remote control. The lights will be easier to operate when needed. You could run strip lights on the edges of a hallway to provide illumination without the need to turn on full hallway lights.

Subtle use of the strip lights will help out in other areas as well. For example, you could use the lights underneath kitchen cabinets. The lights will make it easier to see countertops and add a nice aesthetic touch to a kitchen.

Or, use LED strip lights on areas like bookshelves or entertainment shelves. The lights make it easy to see the areas once the sun goes down. Not only are the lights convenient to use, but they also use a low amount of energy, so you will not see a dramatic difference in your energy bill.

2. Fresh Coats of Paint
A house can sometimes feel dark and claustrophobic when the sun sets quickly. Keep bright feelings in your homes with a fresh coat of paint. Bright and vivid colors will reflect light for longer even when the sun goes down.

A vivid white paint will offer some of the brightest options, but you can choose from light blues and yellows as well. Choose a satin or glossy finish for more reflection in the area.

Add fresh coats to paint to the main areas in your home. While you may not paint every room in the house, choose areas where you spend the most time in. Spaces like a kitchen or living room can transform with a new coat of paint. Try out different paint samples to see how the colors look on your walls.

3. Patio Heaters
When the sun sets earlier, it often takes the heat with it. During the autumn months, you will have a lot of chilly evenings. Do not limit your time on a porch or deck. Consider a patio heater. Patio heaters typically come in portable and permanent installation options. A portable heater allows you to place the heater on the ground in different areas of a patio.

A permanent installation is typically higher overhead and will disperse heat downward across the whole patio. The heater should be ideally over a patio seating area. No matter which version you choose, you can turn on the heater at night and enjoy the instant heat.

Some heaters run on electric power, and others use a form of propane. The options depend on your preferred method and access to options like exterior outlets.

For all of your hardware supplies, visit us at Koontz Hardware . We have a wide range of options in stock and will provide for all your needs to get through the autumn season. We are always happy to answer any of the questions or concerns you have about these and any projects you have.

4 Unique Ways to Get Extra Light During a Power Outage

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 19:13:01 GMT

One of the more frustrating parts of a power outage is when night comes and access to proper lighting is limited. Besides emergency flashlights and lanterns, you can also find other alternative ways to illuminate your home. Each method provides extra light and is doable with very minimal tools and hardware.

Check out four different light options, and have some prepared for the next time you experience a power outage at night.

1. Flashlights and Water Jugs

A flashlight creates a very limited beam of light that typically is not wide enough to fill a room. With a little planning, you can transform a flashlight and create a lot of ambient space. If your home uses large water cooler jugs, then duct tape the end of a flashlight to the opening hole of a jug. When you turn the flashlight on, the whole jug will light up and create a giant lantern.

The light will spread around in a full circle so the illumination increases beyond just the typical beam. If you do not have a water cooler jug, then an empty clear gallon of water or milk can do the same effect. Use a headlamp instead of a flashlight if you have no duct tape. Place multiple light and jug setups in a room to dramatically increase the illumination.

2. Reflective Mirrors

Another way to increase the available light in a space is with reflective mirrors. Keep large mirrors stored in a closet, basement, or attic. When a power outage occurs, pull out the mirrors and place them in various rooms of the home. When you use flashlights or lanterns, the mirrors will reflect the light and fill in a lot of the shadows.

Look for large mirrors to lean against walls or smaller mirrors to place on tables or tabletops. You do not want to worry about mounting a table in the complete darkness.

3. Crayon Candles

Provide extra light and a fun craft with a crayon candle. The wax and paper coating on crayons provides an ideal makeshift candle to use in the home. When you set up a crayon candle, you want a stable base like a metal or glass dish that the wax can easily melt onto. Metal or glass coasters will work as well.

Use a lighter to melt some of the wax on the bottom of a crayon. Press the crayon down gently on the dish so the wax offers a stable base and the crayon stands up straight. Melt the top of the crayon until the flame reaches the paper and the candle eventually lights on fire. Both the crayon and the wax will burn for an extended period of time.

When you light a crayon candle, you must stay near the candle and monitor the flames. You do not want a crayon to fall over and create a fire hazard. For extra safety, consider placing the crayon inside an empty jar. The jar will make the light bigger, and a fallen crayon inside a jar does not create a major fire hazard.

4. Garden Solar Lights

Turn outdoor lights into indoor lights with garden solar lights. During the day, the lights charge up and provide bright illumination at night. The lights are often on spikes. Use jars or pieces of Styrofoam to stick the lights into and supply a stable base.

Along with general lights, garden lights are ideal for lining hallways and staircases with extra illumination. The lights illuminate walkways outside and can do the same with your indoor walking spaces. If a power outage lasts for multiple days, then bring the solar lights outside each day to fully charge for the next night.

Find all of the hardware and supplies necessary for these projects with us at Koontz Hardware . We can help you find what you're looking for and also have plenty of batteries to power supplies like flashlights.

6 Household Tools and Accessories Ideal for Cooking

Tue, 18 May 2021 18:58:36 GMT

When you shop for items in the kitchen, you will come across dozens of tools and options to make cooking easier. In many cases, you may find some of your best kitchen tools at the hardware store. Household tools often serve multiple purposes, and many of the tools can double as kitchen options.

Purchase new versions of each of the following tools to use exclusively in the kitchen. Each tool serves a specific purpose and will speed up your cooking process while eliminating a lot of the hassles along the way.

1. Power Drill

A power drill and a kitchen may sound like a disaster, but you have multiple ways to utilize a drill within the kitchen. Easily create a mixer by attaching a mixer or spoon to the end of the drill. The quick rotations allow you to mix and sift items quickly. When you use a hand drill, you have complete control on the directions you move the mixer around.

Many drills allow you to easily reverse speeds and go in the opposite direction. For example, connect a power drill to a rotating cheese grater. The cheese grater will spin a lot faster than a hand lever and provide you with freshly shredded cheese. You could also insert a clean drill pit into the center of a fruit like a pear and hold a peeler up against the skin as the drill spins around.

2. Hammer

If you need to crush ingredients down or flatten meat, skip out on the typical kitchen mallets and go straight to the steel hammer. The strength of a hammer will speed up the crushing process. For example, you may need to make a graham cracker crust or break up some cookies for a dessert.

When using a hammer, protect the surface underneath with a hand towel or thick cutting board. The hammer is often more direct and works better than other options like a rolling pin.

3. Sharp Chisel

When cooking and baking, you often need to take small sections off of big blocks of chocolate and cheese. One of the easiest ways to do this is with a sharp chisel. A chisel can glide across the surfaces of food and take off just the amount you need.

A chisel can also create curled pieces. Curled pieces of chocolate look delicious on a cake, and curled pieces of cheese add an elegant touch to a salad. Keep a set of chisels in the kitchen to have different sizes to choose from.

4. Ice Pick

When testing baked desserts like cakes and cupcakes, you will typically use a butter knife or toothpick. A butter knife can disrupt the shape of a cake, and a toothpick is often too short to stick in far. An ideal solution is an ice pick. Long and thin, ice picks can go deep inside a baked dessert.

When you pull the pick out, see if the baked treat is ready. The thin size of ice picks makes them easy to clean and reuse.

5. Drywall Knives

Once you're done with the ice pick, pull out a drywall knife to frost a dessert treat. The wide and flat design of a drywall knife makes it easy to cover large surfaces. The knives work well with large sheet cakes. When you finish frosting, use the bigger drywall knives to cut even slices of a dessert. The thin sides slide easily into a cake and come out cleanly.

6. Hacksaw

Freezing meat is ideal for saving it, but you may run into problems when you want to portion out the sections you thaw. One way to cut meat into specific sizes is with a hacksaw. The teeth on the saw easily grip into frozen meat and often work better than a knife. Achieve more accurate cuts with a hacksaw. Many saws are strong enough to cut through any bones as well.

Shop for all of your hardware and tools with us at Koontz Hardware . Completely transform your cooking prep with our massive selection of tools.

9 Useful Accessories to Go With Your Barbecue Grill

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 05:16:01 GMT

When you buy a barbecue, then you also need accessories to make grilling easier. You can get a wide range of accessories to fit every type of cooking. However, there are some accessories you shouldn't be without, no matter what you grill. If you don't have them, you may be limited on what you can do with your grill. Here are nine barbecue accessories you should consider before you start to use your grill.

1. Tongs
Everyone who grills needs barbecue tongs. Tongs help you place and arrange your food on the grill without being burned. Make sure you get tongs designed for high-heat situations like when you use the grill. These types of tongs are more heat-resistant and have protective handles.

2. Heat-Resistant Gloves
Heat-resistant gloves allow you to handle hot pans and utensils with less risk of a burn. They are more secure than a pot holder, and you are less likely to drop them. Be aware that these gloves aren't all protective. For example, they may not withstand direct flames.

3. Skewers
Skewers are awesome for vegetables and some cuts of meat that would normally fall through the grill. You can make shish-kabobs or simply use them to handle regular cuts of meat. Metal skewers work best with barbecues and include a metal loop to make them easy to store and handle. You won't have to soak a metal skewer before you use it, unlike other types of skewers.

4. Meat Thermometers
Meat thermometers are a must any time you cook meat, especially thick cuts. You can choose from a variety of digital and analog thermometers. You can even get one that reads the temperature instantly and folds to fit right into your hand. You can also add an air thermometer to determine the actual cooking temperature.

5. Spatulas
Spatulas and tongs go hand and hand. Spatulas allow you to flip over burgers and other items that may tear open when handled by tongs. Like tongs, make sure you get one designed for a barbecue because those do better with higher heat and usually have a longer handle.

6. Basting Brush
A barbecue basting brush allows for easy application of sauces while the food is on the grill. Try to use a heat-resistant silicone brush when you grill.

7. Seafood and Vegetable Basket
With a seafood and vegetable basket, you can cook your entire dinner on the grill. No more need to separate the way you cook your food. You won't have to cook one thing on the grill and the rest on the stove or oven.

These baskets let you cook food that would have been impossible to cook on the grill otherwise.

8. Grill Brush
After you finish with your barbecue, you need a tool that cleans the unit quickly and efficiently. At the very minimum, you should have a stiff grill brush. These brushes are very effective with food removal. For the best results, and the cleanest of all grills, you may want to add other accessories and cleaners in addition to the brush.

9. Apron
When you barbecue, sauces and grease sometimes spray up and could ruin your clothing. Aprons protect you from that. Plus, you can get them in a variety of patterns and styles. You can choose one based on what food you grill or on your mood. Have more than one on hand and make sure they are machine washable.

In addition to these items, you may want to expand your tools to allow you to grill more foods. You can buy accessories for pizza, for example. You can also get a cast iron skillet and cooling racks. Whatever accessories you decide on, Koontz Hardware can help. We have many different barbecue accessories available. You can buy your grill from us, too. Call us to see what we can do for you.

3 Ways to Display Completed Puzzles in Your Home

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 16:39:59 GMT

Puzzles are not just fun activities for the family to complete together, but they often provide fun pieces of artwork to display in the home. When you complete a puzzle, you do not need to put the design back in a box again. You can preserve the puzzle using puzzle glue and then plan out a way to display the puzzle art in your home.

Consider three unique ways to display puzzles in your home. You can use multiple puzzles to create more than one of the DIY projects.

1. Framed Puzzles
One of the easiest ways to display a puzzle is with a picture frame. A picture will help contain the puzzle and add a more elegant look when hung up on the wall. When you decide which puzzle to frame, you may consider placing a matte around the puzzle. A colored matte will help draw focus to the puzzle design and allows the frame to stand out when hung on the wall.

Some puzzles have unique shapes or designs. To help accommodate for the puzzle shape, you can cut the matte to size. Lay a matte flat down and place the puzzle over the center. Trace over the puzzle edges with a pencil and then slide the puzzle away. Cut out the traced shape to have a matte ideal to display the puzzle.

When you hang a framed puzzle, the UV protection in the frame glass will help prevent discoloring and keep the puzzle colors preserved. You can hang framed puzzles in any room of the house and find themes to fit each room. For example, a food-based puzzle like a doughnut collage or pizza will go great in a kitchen.

2. Laminated Place Mats
Create a fun kitchen table decoration by laminating puzzles to use as place mats. If you have children in the house, the family can build puzzles together and then turn those builds into the place mats. Ideally, you want to use rectangular-shaped puzzles for the place mats. You also want a large-enough puzzle to accommodate the size of an average place mat.

When you shop for puzzles, look for the completed sizes to know what will work well for place mats. Sizes vary, but anything with 12 inches of height and at least 16 inches of width should work. Look for a lamination kit or oversized lamination pouches to stick the puzzles in. Then place the pouch through a lamination machine.

Once the lamination is set and formed around the puzzle, trim the lamination down to size. The clear coat from the lamination allows you to easily see the puzzle while providing a protective surface for meals, snacks, and drinks. Every few years, you can build new puzzles and replace the place mats you have.

3. Glass Top Coffee Tables
If you have a coffee table, you can purchase a large sheet of glass to go over the top. Between the layer of glass and the coffee table, you can display a completed puzzle. With the glass option, you do not need to preserve the puzzle with glue, but you still have the option to do so.

The removable glass also turns a coffee table into a puzzle work station. You can work on building a puzzle and then place the glass back over the top when you need a break. The glass will prevent any tampering of the puzzle and allow you to still use your coffee table space for everyday needs.

Along with the purchase of a large sheet of glass, you may shop for coffee tables with a glass layer already built into the design.

For all of your supplies and display needs, visit us at Koontz Hardware . We will help you find the supplies you are looking for and can help you turn puzzles into displays of artwork for your home.

4 Easy Steps to Prep Your Interior Walls for Painting

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 21:14:42 GMT

Painting your home can be a very satisfying do-it-yourself project, although painting the interior of your home can have several steps and be quite involved. Follow these four simple steps before you start to paint in order to give you a clean, professional look without having to spend money to achieve professional results.

A meticulous and coordinated approach will ensure nothing is overlooked and that you are satisfied with your own results. Below are some tips that will help you achieve professional results without the professional costs.

1. Move and Protect Your Furniture

When starting any do-it-yourself project, take the proper steps to protect your home and your belongings by draping or covering your furniture with a tarp or paint drop cloth. Additionally, you can move your items to an area of the house where they are out of the way.

In most cases, moving your furniture to the center of the room and throwing a tarp over your belongings is sufficient enough to make sure no paint can damage your furniture. Paint can be difficult, if not impossible, and costly to remove from furniture, so always protect your furniture.

2. Clean and Wipe the Walls

When you paint your walls, you want to allow for the best possible conditions to give your interior paint job a clean and professional look. While you may not give a second thought in regards to clearing out debris, this can prove to be detrimental to the finished outcome.

Take the time to remove things such as spider webs or dust that has accumulated over the years. A vacuuming of the baseboards and edges should do the trick. For walls with grease stains or crayon marks, a simple detergent can help remove most stains. The solution can consist of three tablespoons of laundry detergent and a gallon of water; trisodium phosphate is also a common cleaner.

3. Repair and Patch Holes

Before you start to paint, go through the area and identify the parts of the wall that need some extra attention. Look for the areas that are flaking and peeling away, and scrape away any excess paint using a putty knife.

Next, identify any holes and patch them with spackle or wood filler, if you are patching any trim work. Once you have patched any holes allow the spackling to dry and sand down the area until it is smooth. Use a protective face shield to avoid breathing in any harmful dust from sanding.

4. Tape, Mask, and Prime Walls

Take your time to properly prep in this step is to get a clean, professional look once you are all finished with your project. This is where you are really going to see your hard work shine through.

Identify the areas you want to be painted versus the areas you do not. Lay the masking tape or painting tape down carefully, making sure to protect the walls and the floors you do not want paint on. Mask any outlets or fixtures that cannot be removed.

Once you are done taping off the room, use a high-quality primer to help conceal any blemishes or imperfections on walls. For walls with heavy stains, use an oil-based primer to better conceal the imperfections.

Painting the interior of your home is not something you need to hire a professional for. Following the above steps will help you get professional quality on your own. Here at Koontz Hardware , located in West Hollywood, California, we have all of the tools and supplies you need to paint a room or the entire interior of your home yourself. Swing by our store to get started today.

Custom Clock Ideas Ideal for a Children's Room

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 21:36:57 GMT

A clock not only adds a nice touch to a child's wall, but the clock design can become a great decorative element of a child's room. Instead of purchasing a standard wall clock, you can purchase clock hardware and create your own custom design.

Discover four unique custom clock ideas, and use the ideas to create a custom clock a child will enjoy for years as it hangs in their bedroom.

Toy Car Clocks

Toy cars are a common toy for children, and you can shop for inexpensive toy cars to quickly build up a collection. When creating a custom clock, you can arrange the clock so each hour is represented by a colorful toy car. Many toy race cars may feature numbers on the top so you can hunt and look for numbers 1 through 12.

If you cannot find each number, then you can purchase cars with a blank top and use acrylic paint or permanent markers to draw the number on the car's roof. The base of the clock can feature vibrant colors to match the colors of the cars. If you choose all race cars, then the bottom of the clock could feature a checkered pattern.

Once you lay out the cars, use a hot glue gun to secure the wheels to the clock and make sure all the cars are aligned evenly. Then you can connect the minute and hour hands into the clock mechanism to complete the design. Ensure the hour and minute hands move smoothly around the clock and do not get caught or jammed on any part of the clock.

Dice Clocks

Another unique way to showcase numbers on a clock is with a dice clock. You can find dice in all shapes and sizes to use on a clock. A child can even help pick out the dice designs they want to feature on the clock.

Using the dice, you can set up each hour with the corresponding numbers on the dice. For hours 7 through 12, you will use two dice to showcase the total amount.

The small dots can help younger children count out the hours and tell time easier. The solid surface of a dice makes it easy to glue right onto a clock. Depending on the dice size, you can have a larger clock or a smaller clock. A smaller clock may feature a small stand ideal for a bookshelf or dresser as opposed to the whole wall.

Picture Age Clocks

Create a clock that changes and upgrades over time. A picture age clock can use an image of your child to represent each hour. For example, if your child is six years old, then you can use a picture from each year of their life to fill in the one through six spots on the clock. Traditional numbers could stand in for the other numbers.

When a birthday passes, you can update the clock with a new picture all the way up to the age of 12. The picture clock is a nice keepsake to have and look back on as the years go by.

Framed Poster Clock

Along with traditional clocks, you can purchase an LED clock panel and use the design for custom clock creations. One idea is a framed poster clock. You can cut out a section of a poster and feature the clock design as a natural poster element.

The LED clock design is a unique way to showcase the time. Finish the design with a frame that makes the elements blend in a cohesive way.

For all of your hardware needs and supplies, contact us directly at Koontz Hardware . Come visit our store to find all your supplies and create a custom clock you will keep for years to come.

4 DIY Kitchen Projects Ideal for Thanksgiving Festivities

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

A Thanksgiving meal is a great time to celebrate with family, eat delicious foods, and invite extra guests into your home. Along with planning out the food, you can take things a step further with a collection of kitchen projects to help with the festivities. Some of the projects will help with cooking and serving, while others help with the decor.

Browse through each DIY project, and come up with ideas how to transform your kitchen and enhance the way you celebrate Thanksgiving.

1. Lazy Susan

With a table full of guests, one of the more challenging parts of Thanksgiving is serving everyone. You can make things a lot easier with a custom built Lazy Susan. Also known as a roundtable, the table accessory features a large serving tray placed on a spinning pedestal. Load up the tray with side dishes and toppings like gravy.

When someone needs an item, the tray spins around and gives a person easy access without the need to reach across other people's plates. Building a custom roundtable gives you the chance to pick a size that fits your table and is not too big or too small for the center of the table.

Once you find a serving tray, you can find an ideal base to put the items on. Directly underneath the serving tray, you would connect a rotating bearing. The bearing then connects to a wooden base piece. If you want the serving tray to sit a little higher, then chose a stable pedestal base to place the tray on.

Adding a few extra inches of height will leave plenty of plate room on the table.

2. Table Lighting

The current lighting in your kitchen may be sufficient for daily meals, but you could have a lot of dark areas or low-lit parts that will not accommodate extra guests attending your Thanksgiving dinner. Upgrade the kitchen lighting to include some extra illumination for the dinner. For example, you can add string lights across the dining area to provide a temporary festive touch.

You could install new lighting fixtures into the home, including LED accent lighting on the walls. The accent lighting helps make the room feel larger and provides a little extra illumination around the table. Play around with different lighting solutions to really make a room shine.

3. Magnetic Kitchen Tool Holders

As you cook and prepare multiple Thanksgiving dishes, you want quick access to items without leaving knives, tongs, and spatulas laid out all over the counter. One of the easiest ways to stay organized is by building a magnetic kitchen tool holder.

The holder is fairly simple to make and includes a solid base with a large magnetic strip that goes across. Connect a base to the wall and then place all of the metal kitchen tools right on the magnet. The tools are easy to grab and will save time as you carve turkey, mix potatoes, and serve up some delicious treats.

4. Wall Décor

Change up the look of your dining room with some custom Thanksgiving wall décor. A picture wall with custom frames is enough to get started on some festive décor. For example, you can shop for frames with Thanksgiving colors like red, green, and yellow. You can also shop for blank frames and paint the edges yourself.

Once you have the frames, choose themes to go in them. For example, you could purchase a collection of cooking magazines and cut out Thanksgiving meal pictures to place inside the frames. You can create and design your own pictures for the frames. Draw a turkey or use markers to write out Happy Thanksgiving.

Mix some family pictures in the frames to add to the theme of coming together on the holiday.

For whatever project you plan, come check out our vast collection of supplies at Koontz Hardware . When you plan ahead of time, you can focus and create Thanksgiving projects you will use and display year after year.

DIY Projects to Turn Your House Into an Indoor Garden

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Bringing plants into your home can help brighten the gray winter season and help you feel closer to nature. Plants can also provide cheering blossoms, refreshing scents, and even edible leaves in some cases. And indoor gardening can be a fun hobby or DIY project. But if your home doesn't seem to have a lot of natural places to add plants, you need to get creative.

Here are some creative DIY projects to help you incorporate more plants into your home until you're surrounded by greenery.

Hang Planters From the Ceiling

Hanging a plant from the ceiling can be a great DIY project that allows your creativity free range. You'll need some hanging hooks with screws on the end, plus a drill and possibly a pair of pliers. Once you've installed the hooks, creating fun DIY planters is the next step.

You can create your own plant hangers with elements such as twine, yarn, embroidery hoops, or even old tin cans; let your imagination run wild.

Build a Rope and Wood Shelving Unit

One popular and easy-to-make shelf for potted plants involves hanging wood boards at intervals on thick rope knots (similar to how a rope ladder with wood rungs is constructed). You can make one of these shelves yourself if you have three to six boards in the correct size, two lengths of sturdy rope, and hardware and tools to mount the shelf above a window.

Other than the wood and rope, supplies and tools you'll need for this type of DIY shelf unit include:

Wood stain and rag (optional)
Hooks to hang the shelf
Drill and drill bits
Tape measure
Saw such as a circular saw

This is a fairly simple project if you're experienced with power tools. After cutting the wood to the desired length and staining it, you'll need to drill holes for the rope, knot the rope and string it through the holes, and install mounting hardware to hang the shelf from.

Install a Garden Window

A garden window, also called a greenhouse window, is a three-dimensional window space where you can set plants to get natural light from three sides. This feature can be a great way to provide enough natural light for a tropical plant in a home that has lower light levels.

To install a garden window, you'll need a variety of tools and supplies such as:

Insulation
Power tools such as a miter saw
The garden window unit itself
A level and prybar
Flashing to seal the window against weather

This can be a more involved DIY project, since it requires knowledge of how to frame a window as well as how to properly flash the window to prevent water intrusion. But if you have the DIY skills to do it, a garden window installation can be a very rewarding project.

Design and Build a DIY Green Wall

A green wall is a type of vertical garden that covers a surface (such as a wall) in greenery. You can purchase a kit that will sit flush against the wall and has pockets for plants to grow in, or you can construct your own unit and then install it. Either way, you'll need some sturdy hardware to attach the unit to the wall.

If building your own vertical garden unit, be sure to consider how you'll water the plants once they're installed. A watering system that automatically waters each plant will ensure that your vertical garden is as carefree as possible. You'll also want to consider which plants you'll use in your design. Different colors and textures of plant foliage can provide different aesthetics.

These are just four ideas for filling our home with plants. Whether you prefer succulents, lush tropical greenery, or herb plants, these DIY projects will give you more options to install them in your home.

For advice on DIY projects or more information about the types of hardware and DIY supplies we sell , give us a call today or come into the store. We'll be glad to talk about your home improvement projects such as green walls or hanging plant shelves and help you find the materials and hardware you need.

5 Essential Tools for Emergencies

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Prepare for random wildfires and earthquakes by assembling a few essential pieces of equipment. You may never have to use your emergency gear, but it feels good to own the important survival items every family needs. The following are five must-have items to add to your emergency supply kit.

1. Axe

A sharp axe can be a true lifesaver. Axes can be used to clear debris from an evacuation route or driveway, fight fire, open up a collapsed building for search and rescue, escape a roof, and chop firewood.

You may believe that a chainsaw is a more practical choice for tree and limb removal. However, a chainsaw has several drawbacks that make it useless in some emergency situations. For example, chainsaws can't be used when fuel (or power) is not available or when conditions are too dry for sparks.

In addition, a chainsaw is more difficult to sharpen or carry in your vehicle when evacuating. A well-made axe is easy to sharpen and transport when you need to escape or help others.

2. Shovel

A shovel is another highly useful tool to have on hand during disasters. Shovels help you perform a number of tasks before, during, and after emergencies.

Use a shovel to:

Dig a dirt trench to limit fire spread.
Move hot coals to a metal bin.
Throw dirt on top of small flames.
Dig through rubble.

A long-handled shovel is useful for moving trash, decayed animal carcasses, and other unpleasant items after a disaster. You can use a shovel to clear hot embers and branches from your roof as long as you also have a safe ladder and another person to spot you.

3. Hand Tools

A fully-stocked hand-tool kit is a great resource during an emergency. If you don't have a tool kit, start building a set of useful items now.

For example, you may think you'll never need a 12-inch crescent wrench. However, a crescent wrench turns out to be one of the most useful tools when you need to quickly shut off water mains and other utilities. No other hand tool compares. You may only need to use the wrench once a year, but the tool will make easy work of the task at hand.

Additional tools to acquire for emergencies include:

Small handsaw
Set of screwdrivers with assorted tips
Set of sockets and socket wrench
Small and large pliers
Hammer and mallet
Utility knife and scissors
Staple gun

When you have a full selection of tools, you can assemble and disassemble furnishings, board up windows, and do minor repairs on household items. In emergency situations, your tools aid in your survival until help arrives.

4. Rope

Sturdy rope can get you out of a lot of pinches. Use rope to secure the dog, pull a fallen tree limb off the road, erect a temporary shelter, or rescue someone in deep water.

Experts recommend that you purchase 1/2-inch nylon rope with a minimum length of 50 feet. The long run of rope can be used to secure a tarp on a damaged roof or tow a disabled vehicle for a short distance when clearing roads for first responders.

5. Water and Sanitation Tools

Purchase a large, food-safe container to hold water during emergencies. Find a container with a drain and an easy-to-use spout for cooking, cleaning, and hygiene.

If your water service or well is out of commission, you may be able to flush toilets by pouring water directly into the bowl. However, you'll use a lot of water, and your drainpipes may clog if your septic pump or sewer lines are damaged.

Assemble your own disaster restroom kit. Purchase a portable toilet made of a seat and five-gallon bucket. Purchase several bales of cedar shavings or other animal bedding. Use the shavings or sawdust in the bucket to help the waste materials clump, and empty the soiled sawdust in trash bags or your compost heap (if allowed in your area).

Gather the preparedness tools you need by contacting Koontz Hardware today. Browse the tools in our West Hollywood, California, store , or call us and tell us what you need shipped to your address.

Seven Tools No Homeowner Should Be Without

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

If you are a homeowner, then you must have a basic set of tools even if you don't plan on doing a lot of your own home repair. These tools can help you in a variety of situations from simple fixes to full-blown home improvement projects. Here is a list of seven tools that are essential for every homeowner and the reasons why you should have them.

1. Hammer

If you can only have one tool in the house, then make sure that tool is a hammer, especially a claw hammer. You will find that you need your hammer in so many ways including picture hanging, lite furniture repair, and even when you cook.. Most home improvement projects require a hammer, even if you only need it to break things up. The claw on the back is especially useful in removing nails.

2. Pliers

Make sure that you have at least one needle nose and one tongue and groove pliers. Needle nose pliers help you pull and twist items in narrow places, while tongue and groove pliers help remove stripped bolts and nuts. You can also add locking vice grips to the list because the locking mechanism provides stability with twisting.

3. Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers generally come in two different types: Phillips and flathead. Getting one of each, or one with an interchangeable head, should cover you in most normal household situations. You can also add torx to your screwdriver set if you have the odd screw that requires them. Torx screwdrivers are most helpful if you area also in car or electronics repair, but are sometimes used in construction.

4. Cordless Drill

Drills are not just to drill holes, they also act as power screwdrivers to push screws into hard substances. If you have wrist problems and have a hard time using a manual screwdriver, then a drill is a big help. Along with a set of drill bits, you should also get a set of interchangeable screwdriver bits in both Phillips and flathead styles.

5. Duct Tape

While you might not technically consider duct tape a tool, this super sticky tape is a must-have for every home. Duct tape is very durable and often water-resistant, so you can use it to temporarily plug up leaks. However, be wary that duct tape will not work very well in high-pressure situations such as covering a leak on certain pipe types. Also, certain chemicals, like gasoline, will dissolve the tape and render it ineffective.

6. Flashlight

Flashlights are not just to help you find your way around in the dark when the power goes out, they also give you good visibility if you are working in low light. Different sizes and varieties are available based on how you use them. Some have flexible bodies to shine light around tight corners, while others act as floodlights are light up the entire work area.

7. Adjustable Wrench

Like pliers, an adjustable wrench is helpful to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. If the bolt head or nut is not stripped, then a wrench can grip it in a more precise way on all sides. A good tight grip makes it easier to remove exceptionally tight nuts and bolts that pliers, alone, cannot turn. With an adjustable wrench, you can turn a wide variety of nuts and bolts with just one tool.

This list can't contain every single tool you will ever need, but some of the most essential. You may need other types of tools based how deeply you get involved with do-it-yourself projects. When you are ready to buy those tools, then make sure you check out Koontz Hardware . We feature 100,000 different hardware items and have expert employees who can answer your questions. Call or visit our West Hollywood location to learn more about our inventory.

3 Electrical Upgrades You Can Do Without an Electrician

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Electrical upgrades in your home quickly become complicated as you deal with wires and electrical connections. The services of an electrician help with some of the major upgrades, but a number of smaller upgrades are easy to handle on your own.

Learn about a variety of electrical upgrades you can complete in your own home with hardware supplies and tools.

1. Bulb Upgrades

One of the easiest improvements to complete in your home is upgrading the light bulbs. Light bulb upgrades provide a lot of advantages. For example, you may choose to change the type of light temperature in your home. The light temperature you choose for your home will change the overall look of a room.

The temperatures are often broken down into three zones known as soft white, cool white, and daylight.

Smaller lamps and night lights should use soft white to create a relaxing mood when you need a little bit of light at night. The cool white offers a nice blend between the two and is an ideal temperature option for laundry rooms or closets. Add some brightness and vivid light to the home with the installation of daylight bulbs. The bright bulbs mimic the sun and will fill a room when used on overhead lights.

When you upgrade the bulbs in your home, select bulbs with better energy efficiency. An LED bulb uses very little power and will last for years when compared to a standard bulb. And when you upgrade all the lights in your home, you may notice a decrease in your electrical bill.

2. LED Light Strips

Small LED strips provide illumination in various parts of the home for convenience and safety. For example, you may add LED light strips down the hallway of the home. At night, the LED strip provides guidance without turning on full overhead lights.

In a closet or dresser, the lights provide extra illumination to see clothes, shoes, and accessories. The lights may have a battery pack or plug directly in the wall. Use non-damaging tape or adhesive to keep the lights on the ground.

3. Home Theater Upgrades

Technology constantly changes in the home and simple upgrades will ensure your home theater operates with the best possible specs. One upgrade to consider for your home is an HDMI cable. However, not all HDMI cables are the same. Newer and faster cables can support 4K television and high-speed streaming services.

These newer cables, known as high-speed HDMI cables, can be used for every device connected to your home theater to provide optimal picture and sound. If one of the cables is slower, the speed and performance could impact the rest of the home theater system.

Additionally, consider a dimmer switch for your home theater. A dimmer switch allows you to set the mood. For example, you may want to lower the lights for a movie but still have enough illumination to see snacks or meals while you watch.

A dimmer switch installation replaces a standard light switch. To install one, first turn the power to the room off. Then remove the traditional light switch, and match the colored wires to the dimmer switch. Each wire has a specific color, so you should be able to easily match them up. You may need some extra tools for your dimmer switch installation, including a pair of pliers and a wire nut.

Once the installation is complete, install bulbs with dimmable features. Not all bulbs dim and the packaging will indicate if the dimming feature is included.

For all your upgrade needs, visit us at Koontz Hardware . We have all types of supplies and experienced employees to help you with any home improvement project.

What Tools Do You Need to Paint Your Interior Space?

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Do you have the right painting tools for your home improvement project? If you're not sure what to stock up on, take a look at the top products you'll need in this easy-to-follow equipment list for an interior painting project.

Interior Paint

How should you select the just-right paint for your interior project? There are hundreds of colors to choose from — each of which may include slight variations in shade or hue. Along with the color that best matches your room's décor palette, you also need to choose a sheen.

In combination with the color, the sheen or finish can give the paint a totally different look. The primary sheens/finishes to choose from include:

Matte . A matte finish is flat and not reflective. This finish can hide imperfections and showcases the color.
Eggshell . The next step towards a reflective sheen, an eggshell finish is slightly shiny but still somewhat matte.
Semi - gloss . As the name implies, this finish is somewhat glossy. It has a much more reflective surface than a matte or eggshell finish.
Gloss . This option is the most reflective sheen. It's durable, easy to clean, and perfect for accents or trim.

The specific color and finish combination you select depends on your design needs, the room itself, and imperfections you may need to hide.

Paintbrushes

What types of paintbrushes do you need? The answer to this question depends on the type of paint you choose to use. The most common interior paintbrushes are:

Synthetic . These man-made brushes are either nylon or polyester. These work well with most water-based paints. Cheaper, lower quality synthetic brushes are stiff and can scratch the paint surface or leave marks.
Natural . This type of brush is best for oil-based paint use. Most interior home paints are water-based. You may need this option for a smaller craft or outdoor project instead of your interior walls.
Cut . Along with the type of bristles, you also need to choose the right cut or shape. Angled brushes are ideal for trim work or cutting in. A square-tipped brush works well for large flat surfaces.

If you're still not sure which paintbrush is right for your home improvement project, ask the expert. The professionals at your local hardware store can help you to select the perfect paint and paintbrush pairing.

Paint Rollers

Even though you'll need a brush for edging and trim work, you may also need a paint roller for the bulk of your interior walls. A roller allows you to coat larger spaces in less time and creates an even look — in comparison to some types of brushes.

To use a paint roller, you'll need:

The roller. This soft, fuzzy tube will hold the paint. You can use some types of rollers repeatedly, provided you clean them completely.
The roller frame. The frame is a metal skeleton attached to a handle. You'll need to put the roller over the frame before you begin your painting project.
A tray. Place the paint in the tray before you roll it onto your room's walls.
An extension pole. Some spaces are tricky to reach with a standard roller frame. This attachment extends higher to paint hard-to-reach areas.
Painter's tape. Even though rollers can quickly and completely cover larger areas, they aren't precise. Painter's tape can mask areas that you want to keep clean, such as doorframes, baseboards, or windowsills.

Some painters prefer to use a bucket and screen instead of a tray. This reduces the number of tray refills and may waste less paint. Additionally, a large bucket is a steady container — unlike a flimsy tray.

Do you need paint supplies for your next home improvement project? Contact Koontz Hardware for more information.

5 Tools and Supplies Needed for Wall Murals

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

One way to really revamp a room is with a wall mural. A mural adds a one-of-a-kind feeling to a room and creates a stunning visual you will enjoy every time you enter. As you prepare to paint a mural, ensure you have the proper supplies and tools to complete the job.

You do not want to risk the quality of the mural if you do not have the proper supplies. Learn about the ideal supplies needed for a mural and how the supplies will help the mural come to life.

1. Paint Primer

When you paint on a wall, you want to have a fresh canvas and ensure all the color tones paint correctly. A white paint primer will eliminate any off colors on the wall and gives the wall an even white base to plan the mural on. If the wall had a dark color previously painted on, you may need two coats of primer.

The primer you purchase should have a matte finish so you can easily apply other paint colors over the primer. One bucket of primer will typically have enough paint to cover an entire side of a room. If the mural extends beyond a single wall, consider multiple buckets of primer.

2. Painter's Tape

Painter's tape provides you with ways to easily separate parts of the mural and cover large sections. For example, if the top half of the mural features a sky and the lower half features grass, you could use painter’s tape to separate the areas and paint freely without going over specific parts you need in different colors.

The tape allows you to try out creative designs and block off specific areas. Once you complete a layer, you would peel back the tape to showcase the color underneath. As you plan out the mural, try to envision the final painting in layers and how to use painter's tape to effectively access the different layers.

3. Paint Brushes and Sponges

The typical rollers and brushes used to paint walls are not the only paint supplies you need for a wall mural. Consider different brushes and paint accessories to achieve different looks. For example, sponges will add a layered look to the paint and help add a textured view to the mural.

Use sponges to paint clouds, treetops, animal fur, or water elements along with other options. Small tip brushes will help you add very specific details. For example, if any of the designs feature eyes, the small brushes will help detail the eyes and make them look lifelike.

As you plan out the mural design, consider how different elements will look with specific brushes and brush designs.

4. Stepladder

When you paint a mural design, you do not want any restrictions to impose on your artistic ability. A stepladder gives you access to hard-to-reach places. As you design and paint the mural, you do not want to reach upwards too far and extend your arms to hard-to-reach places.

Ensure the stepladder you purchase has enough height so you can reach the top of your wall with ease. Some stepladders may include areas to place supplies so you do not need to constantly go up and down the ladder as you paint.

5. Wall Varnish

Once you've completed your mural masterpiece, you want to protect the design for years to come. After the paint has completely dried, apply a clear wall varnish over the whole mural. The protective varnish will prevent chipping, wear, or decolorization over the years.

The mural will remain in mint condition just like the day you painted the design. Select a matte varnish because the glossy versions could create a lot of glare and create a challenge when you try to view the whole mural at once.

For a full list of available supplies, check out our selection at Koontz Hardware . Not only do we have supplies, but our knowledgeable staff will help you find what you are looking for and give you some tips and tricks along the way.

The Top Exterior Paint Project Questions Answered

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Do you have a summer-time home exterior project planned? Before you get started, take a look at the answers to the top questions homeowners have about DIY exterior painting projects.

What Types of Tools Do You Need for an Exterior Paint Project?

Prep is the first step for any exterior paint project. If you're not sure whether your home's exterior contains lead paint, hire a professional contractor to inspect and test the paint. You may also need a contractor to remove, scrape, or sand the paint before you start the re-painting phase.

After the prep work is complete, it's time paint. To start your exterior home project, you'll need:

Stir sticks . Even though the hardware or home improvement store will mix your paint, you'll still need to stir it before you begin your project. Ask an employee in the paint department from a hardware store for a few of these sticks to take home.
Paint rollers . The paint roller allows you to cover larger areas in less time. You'll need a heavy-duty roller cage and nap roller cover. Additionally, a long-handle or telescoping roller can help you reach higher spots with ease.
Paint brushes . Choose a few synthetic bristle brushes for this exterior job. Wider flat brushes can help you coat larger areas, while slimmer angled brushes are best for small spaces (such as around the window or the door trim).

A paint sprayer can dramatically shorten the time it takes to complete the job and lighten the workload. But this doesn't mean a sprayer is ideal for every exterior DIY home painter. When not used correctly, a spray can coat your home unevenly or cause safety issues.

What Types of Paint Do You Need for an Exterior Project?

The extra cans of interior latex that are leftover from your living room paint project aren't suitable for an exterior job. To paint your home's exterior, you need:

Primer. Start the job off right with a layer of primer — sometimes. If you plan to change the exterior color, need to cover stains, or need to paint a bare or slippery surface or one made of bricks, you need a quality primer first.

Paint. An exterior paint product is the star of this home improvement project. Choose a color and sheen that matches your needs. Never use an interior paint for an exterior job. If you're not sure whether the product is an interior or exterior paint, ask a professional.

Additional paint. Don't get caught without the right amount of paint. Ask the home improvement/hardware store professional how many square feet the quantity of paint covers. If your project requires multiple coats, you'll need to double (or more) the overall amount.

You may need more than one color of paint. If you plan to paint the trim a different hue than the main part of your home, choose coordinating colors. Along with the paint itself, you'll also need separate rollers or brushes for each shade.

What Other Items Do You Need for an Exterior Paint Project?

While rollers, brushes, primer, and paint are the main items you'll need to complete this project, this exterior home improvement job may also require:

Drop cloths . Even though you may not have furniture, rugs, or other interior items to protect, exterior paint can stain your walkways, patio, or deck. Protect outdoor items with thick, waterproof drop cloths

Rags . Use old rags to wipe stray paint marks or for a quick cleanup.

Paint trays or buckets . Use these containers to hold the paint as your work on your exterior project.

Painters tape . Tape off areas you don't want to coat — such as window or doorframes.

Each exterior paint job has its own individual needs. Ask the hardware store paint professional about other accessories you may need for your project.

Are you ready to start an exterior painting project? Contact Koontz Hardware for more information.

Novelty Lighting Options Ideal for a Children's Bedroom

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Decorating a children's room include several elements, including the lighting. Changing up the lighting in the room will add some fun pops of color and unique design elements. Learn about ways to light up a child's room. Take the following ideas and use them to brainstorm with your child to help plan a lot of fun DIY projects.

Furniture Accent Lights

Add some unique lighting to the room with furniture accent lights. The lights will make the room feel bigger and help add depth to furniture pieces like shelves and desks. For example, you could add accent lights to each row on a book shelf. The lights will fill in the shadows and illuminate the spines of the books to make them stand out.

If your child has a special collection of items, then the accent lights will help highlight those. For example, a shelf or desk may display a collection of figurines. Accent lights will make the figures stand out and put a spotlight on the collection.

For the smaller areas, consider using battery-powered lights so you do not have to run cords and waste outlet space. LED lights have a long battery life so you do not have to constantly replace the batteries.

Waterproof LED Lights

Another way to add some fun accent lights to a room is with waterproof LED lights. The lights come encased in a protective barrier so you can insert them inside of water.

You have two main ways to use waterproof LED lights.

The first is with a vase. Set up a glass vase with flowers inside. Set the light up at the bottom of the vase to create a bright visual in the base. Choose from different colored LED lights to match the flowers. For example, if you have red roses, a red LED light will match well and create a nice visual.

You could also place the light in the bottom of a glass fish tank or fish bowl. Illuminate the whole water area and any fish tank supplies with unique lighting features.

Also, several waterproof LED lights come with remote controls so you do not need to take the light out of the water to turn it on and off. The remote may also include color options, brightness options, and timer settings. A whole setup could become a centerpiece to the room.

Black Lights

Add some retro style to the room with black lights. Many room elements will glow under the black lights, including paper, posters, and various plants. The lights create a unique look ideal for hanging out in and using on occasion, but not as the main light source.

Use black lights to highlight a specific area of the room. For example, you may have a wall with chalkboard paint. Chalk designs will pop and shine underneath the black light settings and create fun visuals for your child to plan out and design.

String Lights

String lights, sometimes referred to as fairy lights, provide children with safe ways to add pops of light all around their room. The lights can go anywhere, do no accumulate heat, and often run on small battery packs to operate. Children will use creative ways to decorate with the string lights. For example, a child could wrap the lights around a picture frame.

The child could hang the lights on the wall to spell out a word or message. Hang the lights from the ceiling to illuminate the room and create a soft glow. The lights come in many designs and color options, allowing a child to express themselves and make the room all their own.

For more information on our lighting and hardware, contact us at Koontz Hardware . We will help you find exactly what you are looking for and use our expert knowledge to answer any questions you may have.

A Collector's Guide to Creating Action Figure Display Cases

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Over the years, action figures have become far more than just a playable toy for kids. The toys have become major collectibles and displays for collectors all over the world. If you've amassed an action figure collection you want to display, then follow this guide to make the most out of your collection.

The guide covers everything from lighting to display stability and solo action figure stands.

Action Figure Lighting

Really make your collection stand out with action figure lighting. The lighting is a key element for your figures, and the display case you put up should have some lighting to add depth and layers to the figures you own.

Ideally, LED light strips work the best for action figure displays. The lights do not get warm and do not feature UV rays, which can discolor the action figures over time. Place light strips on the bottom of each shelf and just above each shelf. You will have even lighting and eliminate shadows so the figure is seen in all its glory.

When you choose a light color, stick with cooler options so the action figure showcases its more natural color variants. If a lot of your figure collection features action figures still in their cases, then consider backlighting options. A subtle backlight will allow the figure pop and stand out while reducing reflections off the plastic shell.

Hang up blackout curtains or blinds in the display room to block out natural light. Along with causing wear on the figures, the light could fade the colors on action figures still left inside their packages.

Case Stability

No matter what kind of case you choose to display your action figures in, you want a stable case so you can prevent falls and major damage to your collectibles. Purchase proper hardware supplies to anchor cases to the wall. If the walls are drywalls without a proper support beam, then you should purchase drywall anchors.

The plastic anchors hold screws securely in place and allow you to anchor your shelves against the wall. You have multiple options when you anchor the shelves. One of the more basic is a strap-based anchor, which connects a shelf to the wall using a durable nylon strap.

You could also attach brackets to the back of the shelf and the wall. Connect the brackets using a strong and secure cable line. If the shelf tilts or moves, the cable will hold steady and protect the whole display from falling.

Solo Action Figure Displays

Some pieces in your collection will stand out more than others. Highlight some of the best pieces in your display case with smaller and separate shelves. Allow the figure to stand out on its own with a floating shelf. The shelf has a minimal look to the design so the action figure will stand out on its own.

If you want protection for the action figures, consider a shadow box display. The displays mount directly to walls and come in multiple shapes ideal for displaying the figures. A shadow box is ideal for a figure and accessories. For example, you could display a Batman action figure with a Batmobile on the side.

When you stand up action figures on an open shelf, prevent them from falling with support stands that have built-in brackets. The brackets wrap around the waist of a figure and prevent the toy from falling or leaning out of position. Some figures are harder to stand on their own so the figure stands will help with stability.

As you shop from brackets and stands, look for clear designs so the action figures stand out and the brackets are barely visible from a distance.

Find all your action figure display needs with our extensive options at Koontz Hardware . Our experts will help guide you in the right direction and find exactly what you are looking for.

Upgrading Autumn Home Décor? Everything You Need to Get Started

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Do you need an autumn upgrade for your home's indoor décor? Whether you're a DIY pro or new to crafting and design, take a look at what you need to know about fall home projects.

What Types of Autumn Décor Upgrades Should You Consider?

You have an array of artsy design ideas to consider for your autumn interior upgrades. If you're not sure where to start, some of the top home projects include:

Painting an accent wall . Create an autumn accent wall in fall hue. Choose a pumpkin-colored orange, a rust-like maroon, burnt gold, or a deep chocolate brown.
Painting an entire room . Stretch the fall color palette throughout the room. Instead of one accent wall, paint all four spaces in a fall-themed shade.
Painting wall, window, and door trim . If an entire wall is too much color for your taste, paint the trim. Coat the trim with a fresh fall shade of orange, yellow, red, or brown.
Stenciling the wall . A fall leaf, pumpkin-themed, or other autumn stencil can add a seasonal feel to your living space or bedroom.
Refurbishing the furniture . Paint a table or wooden chair with an autumn color scheme, or reupholster fabric-covered furniture in a fun fall print.

After you choose an upgrade idea (or a few), take the next step and make a supply list.

What Will You Need for Your Autumn Décor Upgrades?

The answer to this question depends on the specific upgrades you choose. If you're not sure what to buy from the local hardware or home improvement store, consider:

Paintbrushes . Use natural bristle brushes for oil-based alkyd paints and the synthetic version for water-based latex paints. Along with the bristle type, you also need to choose the right width. Select a thinner or smaller brush for stenciling and finer crafts.
Paint rollers . If you plan to paint the entire wall, you'll need rollers. A telescoping attachment allows you to paint higher spots without the need for a ladder. Pad roller covers are ideal for flat paint application. Select a textured cover for a specialty look.
Tarps . Tarps and plastic sheeting can help you keep the rest of the room clean as you paint and craft.
Paint trays . Pour the paint into trays to make application easy. You can choose thin, disposable trays or thicker reusable options.
Stencils . If you plan to stencil a wall, you can either purchase ready-made templates or make your own from cardboard or another similar board product.

Paint is the other obvious item you'll need for many of your autumn upgrades. Before you buy gallons of fall-themed colors, explore the different types and sheens available.

What Type of Paint Do You Need for Autumn Décor Upgrades?

Like the rest of your hardware store purchases, the answer to this question also depends on the project. To choose paint, consider:

The sheen . A gloss or semi-gloss paint has a high sheen. These types of paint are ideal for kitchen spaces, walls with imperfections, and places with high cleaning needs. An eggshell or matte is better suited to a bedroom, dining room, or living room.
Specialty paints . A stencil or other similar wall décor may require a specialized craft paint. You may also need a specialty paint for a furniture refinishing project.
Quantity . How much paint will you need for your autumn interior DIY project? The calculation should include the square footage of the walls, the number of walls you need to paint, the shape of the walls, and the number of coats the walls will require.

Along with paint, you may also need a primer. A high-quality primer creates a fresh paint for the next layer of paint.

Do you need autumn upgrade paint and craft products? Contact Koontz Hardware for more information.