Leaks can be baffling to trace. Water may enter a cracked roof vent, slip into a seam and follow a sloped roof rafter, then creep along the drywall and dribble from a ceiling light fixture 10 feet or more from the point of entry. Begin your leak investigation with a trip to the attic during a rain shower (or while an accomplice sprays water on the roof using a garden hose). You may have to pull the insulation away and contend with dust, mold and general gross stuff, so wear gloves, a dust mask, and long pants and a shirt. Equip yourself with a flashlight or extension light,too. Mark the leaks you find with chalk, the note where they are in reference to a chimney or end wall so you can locate them when you go on the roof.

When the roof is dry, climb up to it after safely positioning your extension ladder. Investigate the leaking section and the area above. If you're lucky, you'll find something obvious - a missing shingle, protruding nails, your kid's tarzan spear.

Otherwise, look carefully for the following:

Furnace air filters perform a critical role in the effectiveness of a forced-air heating system. Changing or cleaning the filter regularly is a simple and inexpensive way to lower your energy bill and add years to the life of your furnace.

A filter serves two important functions in a forced-air heating systems: first, it protects the furnace blower and heater element or combustion chamber from dust; second it cuts down on the amount of dust in your home by trapping airborne particles that otherwise would be recirculated throughout your house. By keeping the filter clean, you can save on energy costs. Dirt buildup in the filter can slow the intake of air into the furnace, forcing the fan motor to work harder and consume more energy. If the filter becomes completely clogged, the furnace could overheat and automatically shut off.

Check your furnace monthly during the winter by pulling the filter out and hold it up to the light; if you cannot see light through the filter, it needs to be changed or cleaned. Furnace filters come in two basic varieties: disposable and reusable. Regardless of which type you use, it is a good idea to keep several extra ones on hand.

As soon as cold weather comes, hang your hammock from the garage ceiling with two eye hooks, then fill it with balls, chair cushions, kids riding toys and other summer accessories. Your hammock will stay fresh and your garage floor will be less cluttered.

To extend the life of your water heater, once a month draw a pail of water from the bottom of your tank. This helps to remove dirt and residue buildup that could damage your heating elements.

Sure Shot Applicator:

Anytime you need to get glue, oil or caulk into a tight space, use a disposable irrigation syringe available at pharmacies. The tips are curved and the taper lets you snip them at different points to adjust the opening size.

Attractive Organizer:

Help keep your workshop organized by using a magnetic-strip knife holder to hang chisels, punches, screwdrivers, and other metal tools.

Clean Wipe:
Clean your foggy car windows fast with a felt chalkboard eraser. It works better than your handkerchief and it's faster than waiting for the defroster.

Drains clog up sometimes. It's part of life—everywhere. Make your first assault on a clogged drain with Drano or a liquid clog dissolver such as Liquid Plumber or S-T Drain Opener. Most of these will pass through standing water. Be careful with this stuff! It can burn your skin or your eyes. Follow the safety instructions on the label exactly.

If a dissolver fails, use the plunger. But be careful that any caustic cleaner remaining in the drain doesn't splash into your eyes. Most sinks and tubs have either two drains or an over flow drain, and you have to cover this second opening tightly with a damp rag to generate the necessary suction and pressure with the plunger. The flexible wire snake would be the last resort if the plunger doesn't work. First try working it down through the sink drain, since the clog might be right in the trap. However, if the clog is farther down the line, you'll probably need to remove the trap and tram arm, then feed the snake as far into the drain as necessary to reach the clog.

A professional looking paint job depends not only on the quality of the paint used, but also on how well you prepare your home for the topcoat. For the best results, scout the job and determine what needs help. Here are five common problems you may encounter: