If you ever want to add storage or a patio under a deck, you’ll need a means of keeping the area dry. There are numerous under-deck drainage systems available that can accomplish this goal. Some have to be professionally installed, while others, especially the ones meant to retrofit an existing deck, can be easily installed by any competent DIYer.

There are some differences in the systems, but all work on pretty much the same principle (Illustration, above). They consist of “troughs” that get installed under or in between the deck joists. As water runs through the deck boards, it collects in these troughs, which are tilted toward the outside of the deck. Then the water flows into a gutter-like system that directs the water to a downspout.

Have a nice weekend,

Wyatt Myers
Online Editor, Workbench

With today’s complicated entertainment center and computer setups, it can be difficult to identify all the cords and cables plugged into the power strip. But there is a simple way to make sense of the “bird’s nest.”

What you can do is simply save those little plastic tabs that hold bread bags closed, write the component names on them, and slip them over the ends of cords near the plugs. Now you no longer have to wonder which cord goes with which component when you need to identify or unplug a cord.

Have a nice weekend,

Wyatt Myers
Online Editor, Workbench

If your garage or shed has exposed wall studs, it’s super-simple to make a lumber storage system. Just use 2x4s to make bracket arms and an arm support, and then slip the arms around an exposed wall stud as shown. A few screws driven through the parts and into the stud secure the bracket and create a sturdy storage solution.

Have a nice weekend,

Wyatt Myers
Online Editor, Workbench

Air compressors are noisy tools to begin with, and many have metal legs that rattle around and make them even louder. If you get tired of the racket like we did, just bolt a pair of hockey pucks to the bottom of the compressor’s metal leg to serve as shock absorbers and compress the sound.

Have a nice weekend,

Wyatt Myers
Online Editor, Workbench