V. Chris Holbrook

Pet Odor Eliminator for Artificial Grass

Tired of smelly turf? BioTurf BioS+ is a safe, affordable way to eliminate pet odors from artificial grass, for good.

V. Chris Holbrook · July 31, 2025 · 2 min read

QuietCool Wireless RF Control Kit: A Convenient but Clunky Add-On

The QuietCool RF Control Kit offers wireless fan control without hardwiring—but does it live up to the hype? Here’s our honest review.

V. Chris Holbrook · April 11, 2025 · 2 min read

EGO POWER+ CS1611 16” Cordless Chainsaw

Powerful, cordless, and user-friendly, the EGO POWER+ CS1611 16” chainsaw is perfect for tackling yard work with ease and efficiency.

V. Chris Holbrook · March 31, 2025 · 4 min read

Future-Proofing Your Yard: Upgrading to Rain Bird Anti-Siphon Sprinkler Valves

Upgrade your yard’s sprinkler system with Rain Bird’s DASASVF075 valves. Fix leaks, improve durability, and make it look amazing!

V. Chris Holbrook · March 9, 2025 · 3 min read

Who Should I Hire? Project Manager, Contractor or Interior Designer

Not sure who to hire for your project? Learn the difference between an Interior Designer, General Contractor, and Project Manager.

V. Chris Holbrook · June 1, 2017 · 2 min read

Should I do my Home Renovation Myself?

DIY home renovation? Yes, but know your skills, assess project value, and tradeoffs. Learn or hire based on time, cost, and complexity.

V. Chris Holbrook · April 15, 2017 · 2 min read

Home Networking

Unifi AP AC Lite by Ubiquiti (UAP‑AC‑LITE)

Ubiquiti UniFi AP PRO: Easy install, sleek design, robust software, but no 802.3af PoE support. Great for pros; a bit complex for beginners.

V. Chris Holbrook · December 2, 2016 · 1 min read

Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller

Control your yard with ease! The Rachio Smart Sprinkler Controller offers simple setup, smart analytics, and remote watering. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

V. Chris Holbrook · July 15, 2016 · 4 min read

Dewalt Tile Saw Review D24000

Dewalt Tile Saw D24000: Expensive but unmatched in performance. Smooth cuts, handles 24” tiles, and supports 45° cuts. Cost: $729.99. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

V. Chris Holbrook · November 3, 2014 · 2 min read

Fuji Q3 Gold HVLP Sprayer Review

Fuji Q3 Gold HVLP Sprayer: Affordable & high-quality for fine finishes. Great for latex with Q4 upgrade. Cost: $845. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

V. Chris Holbrook · September 5, 2014 · 3 min read

Home Networking

Design The Perfect Home Networking Panel

Home network tips: Plan for growth, use big enclosures, grid lifters, and raceways for clean design, and ensure flexibility for future tech.

V. Chris Holbrook · June 27, 2014 · 2 min read

Light Bulb Review, Test & Buying Guide for your Can Lighting

LED vs. CFL vs. Incandescent: A hands-on review of energy use, light output, & value from 4 popular bulb types. Which one shines brightest?

V. Chris Holbrook · May 14, 2014 · 7 min read

Wood Grain Tile Flooring that Transforms Your House

Tackle wood grain tile flooring or choose the right vendor. A 3-day project with medium complexity, requiring planning and tile saw skills.

V. Chris Holbrook · April 25, 2014 · 6 min read

How to Repair Low Voltage Landscape Lighting

A demonstration of how to remove a damaged light and replace it with a new upgraded one. The project is simple and inexpensive.

V. Chris Holbrook · March 21, 2014 · 3 min read

Kichler Landscape Lighting 15310AZ 12V Dome Review

Review of Kichler Landscape Lighting 15310AZT6: great light output, easy install, but average construction and poor connectors. Good value!

V. Chris Holbrook · March 3, 2014 · 3 min read

Book Review

Tauntons Complete Illustrated Guide to Finishing (by Jeff Jewitt)

Must-have guide on woodworking finishes, Jeff Jewitt’s Taunton's Complete Illustrated Guide to Finishing is perfect for beginners and pros.

V. Chris Holbrook · February 17, 2014 · 2 min read

Baldwin Madrina Door Hardware Review

A review of Baldwin Madrina Door Hardware, showcasing eight stylish, easy-to-install sets with SmartKey technology.

V. Chris Holbrook · February 14, 2014 · 2 min read

Book Review

Drywall Revised and Updated (by Myron R. Ferguson)

Myron R. Ferguson’s Drywall, 4th Ed. is a solid guide for mastering drywall basics, tools, materials, and techniques. Great value!

V. Chris Holbrook · January 29, 2014 · 2 min read

Dewalt DCF886 Cordless Impact Driver Review

The DEWALT DCF886D2 kit is a must-have! Brushless power, 2 batteries, and charger for $212. Upgrade from the DCF885C2—worth every penny!

V. Chris Holbrook · January 22, 2014 · 5 min read