Home Related Questions and Answers

Monday, May 20, 2013

Can you explain the extensive features of the application of roofing materials?

Q. Can you explain the extensive features of the application of roofing materials? What type of reflective results they can provide?

A. The application of Liquid applied acrylic coatings is rather simple. All that's needed is a paint roller or an airless spray rig. The reflective results are 85% UV reflective. You can purchase these coatings on the web page listed below. The different types of coatings are Benchmark and Rapid Roof.

What is the linear coverage (length) of a roll of double coverage roll roofing material?

Q. How many feet long is a roll of double coverage roofing material?

A. One roll of this product (also called 19" selvedge, duplex, or half-lap roofing) will cover 50 sq ft. Technically speaking, this means the roll is 35' 4" long. The rolls are usually a couple of inches long.

Keep in mind that the material is 36" wide and actually laps 19" -- just a bit more than half, so you only get 17" of coverage per run.

Rolled rubber roofing material, where can I buy it?

Q. I'm looking for a retail dealer in east Texas that sells rolled rubber roofing material at least 8 ft. wide.

A. don't think HD has it. and it is not really a DIY product. i've used it a few times and there are a few special methods you need to know.

try this site, they have someone in texas. i think you want to ask for edpm roofing: http://www.roofingproductsunlimited.com/aboutus.html

try: http://www.gaf.com/General/GAFIntro_MAIN.asp

also try: Modern Building Supply. 31209 State Highway 64. Wills Point, TX 75169 (903) 865-6762 [they're a little east of Dallas]

Sunday, May 19, 2013

The security light is on in my car and the car wont start. BUICK?

Q. The security light is on in my car and the car wont start. Everything else seems ok, the radio and all lights work. Its just that the starter wont roll over. Its a Buick Lesabre 1998.

A. This is a common problem in GM vehicles. Gm has been putting an anti theft security system in cars since 1982. The system on your car is call VATS. The idea is that the ignition doesnt just use the key, but reads that little chip in your key also. The starter will not start until the theft deterrent module recieves the proper signal from your key/ignition. This prevents people hot wiring your vehicle and stealing it. The problem being that these system tend to get worn out or fail and then lock you out, thinking you are a theif. Your vehicle has gone into anti theft mode.

Luckily there are ways to beat this system now, and even to beat the system that came after VATS. The next failed system was called Passlock. It didnt work with a chip in the key, but rather a transponder in the key. We can beat those too. Check out this link for just about everything you need to know on the GM SECURITY LIGHT issue.

http://vatspasslockpasskeysecurityhelp.yolasite.com/

Remember for anybody else reading this. You can now fix many different makes yourself.
BUICK
CADILLAC
GMC
CHEVY
PONTIAC
OLDSMOBILE
ISUZU
SATURN

What does it mean when the security light comes on, in a 1995 buick lesabre? is the car safe to drive?

Q. The security light came on when I started the car, and stayed on. The car did not seem to have any problems. How safe is it to drive the car? How do I get the light to go off?

A. only light that is coming on,more than one,low charging system that light should be on too,if not turn the key over three times ,on,off no start,since it is still running fine for you if that does not work,have your remoteless key checked for free at a lot of places

Why is the security light on my Camaro coming on all of the sudden?

Q. I've had a '97 Camaro for a few months and all of the sudden the security light is coming on when I try to start it disabling the starter. I've been using the same key the whole time. I have had no problems with this car until now. I have to wait 3 minutes and then it will start. The key is in good shape. Not dirty or wet. Is there an underlying issue I should check out? Thanks.

A. Do NOT replace the ignition by yourself! My car's ignition was replaced by the dealer (not a Chevy dealer, just a used car lot) and now my light will NEVER go off. Take it to a Chevy dealer and they CAN help you. If it is the ignition then they will be able to fix it, but if you replace the ignition yourself then you risk having that light on forever because the ignition was not programmed into the car's security system. The guy I got my car from said they didn't have a key for my car and that is why they replaced the ignition but if he would have actually read the owner's manual it says that if you take it to a dealer they can make a new key that is made specifically for that ignition. I don't know what could be wrong with it, but if you have the funds to do so, I would take it to a Chevy dealer.

What is the best wood polish or wax to use on hardwood floors?

Q. I just had my hard wood red oak floor refinished. It looks beautiful. The refinisher told never to use water on them to clean them. What do you recommend I clean them with? Also I live in the southwest, where it is very dry, how often do I polish or condition them and what do you recommend? THANKS in advance!

A. I have hardwood oak floor in kitchen and dinning area, I use white vinegar and water, yes water, but don't use a mop, I use a damp not wet sponge in the vinegar and water solution, it is a get down on you knees job, then I apply a coat of orange glo for hardwood floors really puts a shine on the floor. Depending on the traffic in the area where the floors are you can run a dust mop over the floors and sweep up any excess dirt, dust etc. I clean mine once a month and do the orange glo for hardwood as these areas of the house get alot of use. Make sure not to track in any stones in your shoes, we usually take our shoes off and put on slippers when we come in the house. You may want to get a humidifier since your area is dry.

How To Remove Scratch of a Refinished floors?

Q. I recently had my 50+ years old pine hardwood floors refinished with 3 coats of oil based. Looks really nice and shiny. Now I made a light/clear scratch from moving furniture and I can't get it off by using an eraser or water+soap. Any other ways to remove a simple clear scratch/scuff from the top coat? Thank you!

A. Try a little bleach, don't pour it directly on the floor, put some on a towel, or sponge and a little elbow grease.

What do I do to fix a hardwood floor after refinishing problem?

Q. We sanded our hardwood floor to refinish it. All of a sudden, the nails showed up - we couldn't really see them before sanding, now we have black nail heads on nice brown hardwood. How do we fix it so the nails don't show so drastically?

A. All you can do now is use a nail punch and counter sink the nails and then fill the holes with a putty. Use a putty you can stain by using some of the stain you used for the hardwood. Then just touch up with the same urethane.
Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar. GL

Why so many No-show Home Improvement contractors?

Q. Over the years, I have had several Home improvement contractors show up to take measurements for floors, windows, plumbing, etc, but then they never follow through and send an estimate.

Why do you think that is happening? I have money to spend and tried to track themn down for their quote but they gve me the runaround.

A. I have had the EXACT same problem! It is sooooo frustrating. I can only guess that it's because there is so much work out there, and if they feel like the job is going to be small, or if a bigger job comes along, they don't want to waste their time.

How do I get a contractor's license in OHIO?

Q. Their website is unclear. I want to know if there is an exam. want to obtain a home contractor's license, and curious about the steps, and how they figure out if i'm qualified.

A. You DON'T obtain a HOME contractor's license from the STATE of Ohio. Only COMMERCIAL contractors are licensed at the state level. Home contractors MAY require a LOCAL license. In order to determine the rules in you locality, you need to specify which PART of Ohio you wish to be licensed in.

Im looking for a reputable mobile home repair contractor in the dallas area?

Q. Im looking for a reputable mobile home repair contractor in the dallas area.I have a kitchen floor that needs to be replaced. this contractor has to be bonded and licensed..Anyone know of any contractors??

A. John Miliara Contractors, Inc.
972-259-5034
Ask for John :)

How would you tear carpeting out of your house , is it possible to do it yourself?

Q. What tools are required for tearing out your own carpeting and how would you do it?

A. Of all home improvement products, ripping out carpet is the best!!

I first tape off section of carpet. I wouldn't say that everyone does this, but it's what we do.

Then you take a very sharp hooked carpet knife and start to cut. Between that and a box cutter, you have to be careful. Just cut away until you reach the end, roll up the carpet and toss outside!! I can't say a pro would do it like this, but it's fun. It's great. And it works with the padding too.

If you have hardwoods underneath, I would use a different rolling method to avoid injury to the wood.

I am desparately in need of a way to remove the odor of dog urine from carpeting. Solutions ?

Q. Carpeting is BERBER ... 1 year old. Has been cleaned professionally and by myself.

A. There are a couple of new products out there - One is called "Urine Gone". I think the other is called "O". Both are supposed to work really well, and go through the carpet to the under pad to get rid of the entire smell. I've seen the "Urine Gone" at our local JC Penney's before.

How do you remove mildew stains from carpeting?

Q. We live on a boat, and there is always some degree of mositure inside the boat. There is carpeting on the walls, so I need to remove the mildew, but I don't want to use a cleaner that may change the color of the carpeting. Any ideas?
We live on a boat, and have carpeting on the walls. There is moisture constantly inside the boat, and mildew stains have grown. I need a home made remedy, as we are traveling on the Meditterean sea, currently in Spain. So USA store products are not available here.
We live on a boat, and have carpeting on the walls. There is moisture constantly inside the boat, and mildew stains have grown. I need a home made remedy, as we are traveling on the Meditterean sea, currently in Spain. So USA store products are not available here.

A. There are commercial mildew stain removers available. Before moistening the carpeted walls with any product, check to be sure that under the carpet is not wood. Moisture soaking into the wood and not drying will compound your problem.

how do I find manufacturers for designs of home decor?

Q. I design jewelry and ceramics and recycle items into useful but decorative home decor items. I just don't know how to find manufacturers of home decor that would buy my designs or how to submit them.
Can anyone out there clue me in on how to do this?

A. interior design magazine would be a good resource, especially the annual buying/ merchandise guide, as it has the vendors broken down by category, incl. home decor. This or any other magazine aimed at the trade would be a better bet than, say, magazines aimed at homeowners, because trade pubs will have more manufacturers and fewer distributors. Good luck!

What is a good sewing book for beginners who want to make clothing, not home decor?

Q. I have next to no experience sewing so i am looking for a beginner's book. But most of them are focused on making home decor which im not into. Looking to make my own clothing.

A. Reader's Digest Complete Book of Sewing is recommended by many fashion schools for prospective students. It covers almost everything you need to know. Tim Gunn of Parson's and Project Runway says everyone should have a copy. The older book is better than the newer editions, whatever edition you choose it is considered one of the classics: http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Guide-Sewing-Readers-Digest/dp/B000CQ2THY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1266502826&sr=8-2

For a book with even more, from beginner to advanced level skills the Vogue Sewing Book has information on embellishments, tailoring, hand sewing, linings, and more. The older Vogue book from 1975 is far superior to the newer ones and easy to find in used book stores, so it's also a thrifty choice. Similar but not quite as complete is the "Vogue Butterick Step By Step guide to Sewing Techniques." This book explains pattern instruction sheet instructions in greater detail. http://www.amazon.com/Vogue-Butterick-Step-Sewing-Techniques/dp/1573890049/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1266502935&sr=1-5

And also look into sewing patterns designed for beginners. Kwik Sew brand has a line of absolute beginner patterns called "Kwik Start" and with these you learn by doing. They have simple t-shirts, skirts, tops and jackets and as you use them you learn all the basics of garment construction. The Kwik Sew website has a message board where you can ask for help if you run into problems

After you feel comfortable with these you can move on to any of the other pattern lines such as Simplicity, Burda, Vogue, McCalls and Butterick.

One reason why home dec is often taught first is because it is considered easier, it's almost all straight line sewing, there's little to no turning from wrong side out to right side out and most pressing is flat, not shaped. Of course if you don't need ten yards of curtains it's not very useful.

Finally, there are a few places on line that offer sewing help for beginners. About.com's sewing site is packed with tips, tricks, useful lessons for beginners and a forum where you can ask questions and they will be answered by one of the experts who post regularly on the board. or irregularly, like me. Simplicity pattern's website has lots of useful information for beginners and they have the "It's so Easy" line of patterns that are also good for beginners.

Kwik Sew's beginner line: http://www.kwiksew.com/Catalog/cat_thumbs.cfm?Cat=Learn_to_Sew&Level=KWIK_Start&QL=KwikStart

Simplicity home page: http://www.simplicity.com/
The simplicity classroom site: http://www.simplicity.com/t-classroom.aspx
About.com: http://sewing.about.com/

Where to buy unique home decor online?

Q. I'm currently shopping for home decor, bedding, lamps, etc for my new apartment. I love all the stuff urban outfitters has but unfortunately they don't have a very large selection. What are some other online stores where I can find fun, funky, and unique home goods for a somewhat reasonable price?

A. www.etsy.com is an amazing website full of handmade home decor. In the top righthand search box simply type in whatever it is you want (lamp, bedding, photography, ect.) and you'll be blessed with a huge selection of cute home decor items. All of them ship. And all of them are sold on www.etsy.com!

Can you give me information on solar energy?

Q. I would love to use some solar energy in my home. What can you tell me about how much it costs to begin? Is there some sort of federal tax credit? What all do I need to buy (panels, batteries, etc)? Can a homeowner do the installation or must it be done by a professional? Would also appreciate any websites for retailers of solar energy items. Thank you very much for any information.

Q. How the electricity is produced by using solar energy?

Q. Please describe in details how do the whole mechanisms work? How it is developed? What apparatus is required? How the solar panel is constructed and how it works? Explain me all questions by using 3d figures or images or video if available. I have no prior knowledge about solar electricity so; please guide me in the easiest way as much as possible; I want to make electricity for my home by using solar energy what should I do? How can I achieve or construct it myself?

A. Solar electric panels are made up of something called silicon, the same thing that makes up sand. There is more silicon on the planet than almost anything else. Even though you can find silicon almost everywhere, making a solar panel is difficult and expensive. The silicon has to be heated to super high temperatures in a big factory, and then formed into very thin wafers.

When sunlight hits a solar panel, it makes electrons in the silicon move around. (Electrons are teeny tiny specks--they?re way too small for us to see, even under a microscope.) The electrons flow through wires that were built into the solar panel. And presto! We have electricity! We can do whatever we want with this electricity, run a calculator, a CD player, or, if we have big enough solar panels, a satellite! [Solar panels are also called photovoltaic panels. "Photo" means light and "voltaic" means electricity.]

http://www.windandsolar.com/nss-folder/pictures/Solar%20Panels%20S%20Wind%20machines%208319%20W%20Sunset%20005.jpg

Before installing solar panels, make sure you are wearing safety goggles. Make sure you have read and understand the manuals for your installation equipment.

Can you give me information on solar energy?

A. When I was gainfully employed, prior to experiencing the bliss of retirement, I worked for a hardware store that marketed a solar energy system for single family residences.

The cost profile (this stuff is expensive) suggested that, if you planned to live in your home for 19 years post-installation, you would amortize the cost.

There were federal and California state tax credits available at the time, as well as a rebate from Pacific Gas and Electric (primary utility provider in No. Calif.) which produced a net cost near $20K.

You need to determine if your local power company is obligated to buy back surplus power from your solar system first. If they are not legally required to do so, that will make amortization more difficult.

I came accross a new, proven and tested home made wind power system and solar power system which eliminates our electricity bills. It was written by a Renewable energy enthusiasts Michael Harvey the diy called Earth4energy. You can get your copy to save energy and help environment while eliminating your power bills. Get it from here:

http://how-to-build-cheap-solar-energy.blogspot.com/