Maintenance and Repair: March 2008 Monthly archive
When a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL - shown above before breaking) breaks, you must handle the contents with a bit more care as it contains mercury which is very toxic. NotMartha.org goes through the steps she took to thoroughly clean herself and the are where the bulb broke and also points us to the cleanup procedures recommended by the EPA.
Tags: breaks, cfl, light bulb, mercury, toxic
March 28, 2008 | Comments ()
To save on energy costs and ensure a longer hot water supply, consider enclosing the body of your water heater with a tank wrap, a thick fiberglass blanket that's sold at most hardware stores. Secure the ends of the blanket with waterproof tape. Experts recommend wrapping older water heaters; newer heaters that are less than seven years old don't need an entire wrap but can still benefit from pipe insulation.
Tags: heating, hvac, insulation, katy ryan, water heater, wraps
March 27, 2008 | Comments ()
Don't wait to hire a professional to install the carpet runner down your stairs--do it yourself! Here you'll find some tips and tricks for making the runner last longer and look better.
Tags: carpet, meredith clinton, rugs, safety, stair runner, stairs
March 27, 2008 | Comments ()
Don't let spring cleaning get in the way of your allergies--in fact, make sure your "big clean" isn't simultaneously stirring up dust mites and pollen that will only make things worse for your allergies. Take a look at this article on for advice on minimizing allergens.
March 24, 2008 | Comments ()
DIY Maven shares the virtues of tin ceiling tiles: Tin ceilings came to the U.S. during the Victorian era via Europe and became a popular, inexpensive alternative to decorative plasterwork. In this century, thinking of tin ceilings as an inexpensive alternative is downright laughable--considering the alternative is now Sheetrock!
Tags: diy maven, tin ceiling tiles
March 21, 2008 | Comments (1)
Amid the discussions recently regarding water contamination, those of you out there with well water may be thinking you're safe. On the contrary, it's just as important--if not more--to have your well test each year for germs, chemicals and general functionality. No one else is responsible for checking besides you, so you don't have the luxury of assuming someone else is keeping you safe.
March 19, 2008 | Comments ()
Double duty: this article will help you with a few different projects. Number one, you'll find some general tips for fixing a broken window pane in your house should that unfortunate occurrence befall you. But even better, it gives you a great idea for some wall art that you probably don't already have.
Tags: meredith clinton, mirror, project, window pane
March 18, 2008 | Comments ()
On the subject of flowers, the Manhattan Users Guide has answered the question of "What can I plant in my window box?" We've always been partial to Zinnias and Impatiens but MUG also recommends "Portulaca, which now comes in double-flowered varieties and Sanvitalia, a tiny black-eyed Susan, which are both very drought resistant."
Tags: flowers, plants, spring projects, window box
March 13, 2008 | Comments ()
As winter snow gives way to spring rains, prepare for the influx of moisture and protect your home's basement. Those with older homes may be especially prone to lower level flooding, as stone and clay foundations contribute to increased dampness.
March 12, 2008 | Comments ()
Although there have been no health warnings it seems that the tap water in some cities and communities has been compromised by a myriad of pharmaceutical drugs including antibiotics, anti-convulsants, mood stabilizers and sex hormones that even in trace amounts cannot be good for our health.
Tags: health, water conservation, water filter
March 10, 2008 | Comments (2)
