DIY Life

Planning a bathroom renovation? Me, too. Right now, I'm shopping for the perfect bathtub.

Now, I knew right off the bat my budget wouldn't stretch to one of those luxe clawfoot models. But I also can't settle for a cheapo standard-issue (read: shallow, uncomfortable) tub. I'm looking for a bath that's comfortable and deep enough for soaking ... yet won't break the piggy bank.

If you're shopping for a tub, choose carefully. The cost of installation can easily dwarf that of the tub itself, so make sure the finished result is exactly what you wanted! You've probably already narrowed it down by size, shape and color. But wait: You still must choose the type of material your new tub will be made from. Let's take a look at the choices.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Louisville Ladder Inc. have announced a voluntary recall of about 25,000 Louisville/Davidson and Michigan brand fiberglass extension ladders. The extension or "fly" section of the ladders can fail to lock, posing a fall hazard to consumers. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

Manufactured in Mexico, the recalled ladders were sold at home centers and industrial supply stores nationwide from September 2007 through December 2007 for between $130 and $760. This recall only involves models that were manufactured from September 2007 through October 2007. Please see the CPSC press release for complete details and model numbers involved in the recall.

Stop using the ladder immediately and contact Louisville Ladder at (800) 660-4356 for instructions on inspecting the ladder or information on how to get a free repair kit. You may also visit the firm's website at www.louisvilleladder.com.

We have a pergola out in our yard. A sprawling wisteria makes its home there, twining its way relentlessly around the wooden support posts. When the wisteria blooms in spring, it's a beautiful sight to see. Sadly, the above photo was taken the spring before last, and lately I'm noticing my poor pergola's not looking quite so charming.

Yes, it's time to consider a little pergola maintenance. Honestly, I'm dreading it. All those posts! All that pruning and trimming! All that sanding! All that wrestling with the ladder and drop sheets! Ugh. So I made a plan. First, I did a little online research on pergola maintenance, to arm myself with the facts. Second, I figure I'll psych myself up all winter, so when the weather warms up and it's time to paint, I'll be all prepared and will have no excuse to procrastinate further!

So much for my plan. Let me share with you the tips I found.