Hi! I’m Blair Gilbert, a.k.a.
MR. HARDWARE
As a third-generation hardware store owner, licensed builder, and finish carpenter, my mission is to help you “do it right the first time!” On this site, I share expert home and yard DIY advice in over 250 articles and videos. Feel free to dive in!
Latest Articles
- Make a Stronger PVC Cross Brace & Rib Connector – Don’t Cut (3/16/2026)
PVC Stronger Cross Brace & Rib Connection Support – a Tee is Weaker.
In PVC structures, a simple T-connection where a rib meets a cross brace is naturally a weak, wobbly point unless it’s reinforced.
By not cutting the rib that bears weight, the half “T” held by a set screw reduces strain, but supports structure and strength of the cross brace.
More New Articles
- Robertson, Canadian Bit on Electric Circuit Breakers for Pro Safety (2/23/2026) - The Robertson bit, or a Canadian, is square bit screws are generally considered to be faster and more secure to use than Philips screws in circuit breaker wiring applications. https://youtu.be/rt5a1Fxar90 This is because… ...read more
- Oil is Best Household Lubricant, the Cheapest (2/2/2026) - Oil is a Better Lubricant & Lasts Longer than Spray Alternatives. https://youtu.be/el-2T6topqQ 1. Composition & Purpose Oils (like machine oil, motor oil, or 3-in-One) are designed specifically to lubricate—they stay wet, coat surfaces,… ...read more
- Easy Wallpaper Seam Fix for Curling Glue Repair (1/12/2026) - Repairing wallpaper seams that have lifted due to adhesive failure takes time. https://youtu.be/C9JfKKuvMFc Repair with this fix: 1. Get the seam wet with hot water to the curled, rolled, separated wallpaper. It soaks… ...read more
- Overheating Equipment – Extesion Cord – Power Fail and Cure (12/22/2025) - Trip Breaker if Too Small or Long Extension Cord - Loses Power. A too-small extension cord can trip a circuit breaker. https://youtu.be/twtN7uMNpgI 1. Too Much Current Draw Overloads Thin wires = high resistance… ...read more
- Purple Martin House – Adjust height – Easy to Clean and Check Bird Health (12/1/2025) - Erect Adjustable Bird House for Purple Martins - Easy Clean & Check Bird Health. Bird House - Purple Martin - Health & Clean. https://youtu.be/C_z1vP-e_rs A purple martin birdhouse consists of multi-compartment houses placed… ...read more