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DIY Questions and Answer
What are the advantages of using milk paint on furniture?
Q: What are the advantages of using milk paint on furniture? A: Milk paint is a water-based paint with the main ingredient, case in, a milk protein, commonly sold in powder form. Used for thousands of years, milk paint is extremely durable and is very safe and non-toxic once applied. When mixed with water, milk paint grants more control over […]
I’ve read the long list of items to avoid flushing into a septic tank, but are there any proactive steps I can take to help the condition and performance of my system?
Q: I’ve read the long list of items to avoid flushing into a septic tank, but are there any proactive steps I can take to help the condition and performance of my system? A: Avoiding certain chemicals and materials is important for proper septic tank care, but there are a few extra steps you can take as well. Since septic […]
My new home has a thermostat setting for “Emergency Heat?”
Q: My new home has a thermostat setting for “Emergency Heat?” When is the appropriate time to use that setting? A: “Emergency Heat” is an optional setting for a heat pump, but it should only be used in true emergency situations, such as when your heat pump has stopped working altogether. Heat pumps condition the air of your home by […]
I’d like to upgrade the handrail system of my staircase. How are the newel posts typically fastened to the floor?
Q: I’d like to upgrade the handrail system of my staircase. How are the newel posts typically fastened to the floor? A: Often, a newel post will be fastened with a metal bracket that surrounds its base. The bracket surrounds the post and is screwed into all four sides as well as to the floor. Wood molding is then applied […]
How does a plasma cutter cut metal?
Q: How does a plasma cutter cut metal? A: One common description of plasma is to describe it as the fourth state of matter (aside from solid, liquid and gas). The difference between these states relates to their energy levels. When we add energy in the form of heat to ice, the ice melts and forms water. When we add […]
I’m making a drainage ditch in my landscape. What type of rock should I use for the drainage?
Q: I’m making a drainage ditch in my landscape. What type of rock should I use for the drainage? A: Drainage gravel made of crushed rock (usually gray in color) is normally 1 to 2 inches long, also used for driveways and building foundations. Another option for drainage is shell gravel made of ground shells and other natural materials found […]
What’s the best way to mount a TV onto a brick wall?
Q: What’s the best way to mount a TV onto a brick wall? A: To hang a TV on a brick or cement wall, we recommend using sleeve or wedge anchors and a metal TV mount. You will also need a hammer-drill and a masonry bit to drill pilot holes for the anchors. TV mounting products are available in a […]
Can I apply polyurethane over a wood floor without having to first strip off the old polyurethane?
Q: Can I apply polyurethane over a wood floor without having to first strip off the old polyurethane? A: Yes, a polyurethane-finished hardwood can be recoated if you take the proper steps to prep the finish. First, lightly sand with No. 2 steel wool or a dull 120- to 150-grit abrasive screen using a heavy floor buffer. Using a sanding […]
Is there a certain type of mortar mix I need to use?
Q: I’d like to build a stone landscape wall. Is there a certain type of mortar mix I need to use? A: There are several types of mortar mixes available for different applications, classified based on compressive strength, bonding properties and flexibility. Each mortar mix uses a specific proportion of Portland cement, hydrated lime and sand during mixing. Mortar mix […]
What is the difference between heat pump and a furnace?
Q: When considering home HVAC systems, what is the main difference between a furnace and a heat pump, and what are the pros and cons of each? A: For this question, the EHT staff turned to our friend Dave Miller at HeatTalk.com: Furnaces produce heat through the combustion of fuels including oil, wood or natural gas. While heat pumps, on […]