Daily Book Review – The Kite Runner

Here is a strong recommendation for the author Khaled Hosseini. His novel, “The Kite Runner”, is my selection for today. I was reminded of this when I read that a Turkish Novelist has just been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. That, in turn, reminded me of Prize winner Salman Rushdie and the obvious comparison to the powerful writing of Hosseini. I won’t repeat the summary and details that are referenced here by links. Readers of this blog know that I like to read books before they are forever transformed by film adaptations. So, read The Kite Runner before you see the soon-to-be-produced film version.

Daily Tip for Home Builder – Drywall Continued

Tip: Use tape measure ruler and utility knife to measure and score sheet at the same time; then snap at the score Check for protrusions in studs/joists before hanging a sheet. Use “Metal Lifter” to lift bottom of sheet slightly off floor and then screw it. Need screw gun with a slip clutch to prevent overdriving drywall screws; it also creates a dimple to set screw head Run the blade of trowel over the drywall surface before taping and mudding to hear/feel any protrusions. Don’t rough up or scrape drywall when using tools and sanding because it will cause dull spots under the paint Drywall on ceilings must always run perpendicular to ceiling joists. Bottom chord on trusses rarely runs level so attach strapping to bottom chord (1” by material) lengthwise and level with shims to make perfectly level plane for drywall. Never force drywall sheets into tight fits. Instead trim off butt edges and plaster the edge gaps later. Don’t fasten inside corner edges of drywall; place screws 12” back from corner. A technique for stronger bonding and less popping is to place two screws 2” apart every 12 inches; Use self adhering fiberglass mesh tape; no base coat required; but use paper tape for corners since it is easy to make a stiff and straight crease in the paper. Use as little mud as possible (and only 2 coats) in inside corners and only flair out 6″. Use high strength setting type compound for first coat only (and corner bead coat); use rounded edge corner bead (not square edge) for more professional outside corners. Hand tighten bead with Phillips head screw driver to avoid dents and bends. Cover over all window and door openings with drywall and then cut out with router or keyhole saw. Install drywall on ceilings first; mark stud locations on both the floor and the ceiling. Sand each coat using a sanding pole with open mesh abrasive screen being careful to never scuff the drywall paper.