On one of my toilets, I have to hold the handle down in order for the toilet to flush all the way. What do I need to do? -C.R. Kirkwood, MO This can be a source of frustration, especially when nothing appears to be wrong. There are a couple of possibilities, however, and the [...]
The temperatures and weather conditions this winter have been rather benign for the most part, but winter is only halfway over. The temperatures could drop in no time to freezing and below freezing temperatures, and the arctic cold could sweep down and dump snow and ice in our area. So even though the winter [...]
I think I’m finally ready to do something about adding to my attic insulation. How do I begin and how much do I need? – John P. Arnold, MO The cold weather is bringing many questions such as yours. Checking your attic insulation for the correct R-factor is easy to do, and adding additional insulation [...]
I’ve recently noticed that the crown molding in my home has a gap at the top where it was caulked. It hasn’t done this before. -R. Q., St. Louis After crown molding is installed, it is caulked at the top and bottom, to hide the gap. Occasionally, this may need to be recaulked. The changes [...]
I’ve got cold air pouring in all over my house. Is there one type of weather stripping I can use? – G.R. Chesterfield, Mo. The recent cold air has brought the weather stripping issue up once again. There are many ways in which a homeowner can help minimize cold air drafts. Exterior doors will [...]
Now that the birds have left their roosting spot above my front door, I’m determined to find a way to keep them from nesting here again next year. The mess is terrible. Any suggestions? – Judy, St. Louis Time: 30 minutes Difficulty: Easy Materials: Nixalite material, perhaps glue (such as liquid nails) Oh, how I [...]
My bathroom vanity drain seems to be draining slower than usual. Is there something I can do to check this out? S.H. Ladue, MO Materials: Bucket, channel lock wrench Time: 15 minutes Difficulty: easy Vanity drains have a tendency to clog up after time. If you think about it, it’s only normal. Soap scum, hair [...]
In the middle of the night, I sometimes hear water, as if someone has turned on a faucet or a dishwasher is running. It only lasts a few seconds, but it is of concern. It seems to be coming from the bathroom. Any ideas? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in hearing these sounds, and better [...]
I just moved into a home and have a lot of items on a “to-do” list. One of them would be to tile my backsplash above the kitchen sink. Can this be done easily? Congratulations on the new home! It sounds like a normal move-in, where there are many things to be done on the [...]
We have hardwood floors that will need to be re-stained, but we’re trying to put it off for a while. Is there any way to touch up some small areas without refinishing the whole floor? Generally, this is a job for a flooring company, and they will usually recommend doing the whole floor. However, when [...]