Expert Advice on Home Improvement

Lin asks, “I want to install attic vent fans in my roof. Is there a formula on how many you need and the size?“

Attic exhaust vent fans can reduce your air conditioning bill in the summer while preventing condensation and ice dams from forming during the winter. They are available as hardwired or solar powered models, and fit over a hole cut in your roof or mount on the inside of a gable vent. Read on to find out how to select the correct size attic vent fan for your home. Read in full.

Bitsy asks, “What can I do to relieve allergies and keep the dust and pollen out of my house?“

A good quality air filter on your HVAC heating/cooling system is the first line of defense against dust, dirt, and airborne allergens in your home. Watch this video to find out more. Watch this video.

Kathy asks, “How can I raise double hung windows in an older home that are stuck shut?“

If your window has been painted shut, start by unlocking it, then carefully cut through the paint layer where the window stop meets the sash using the corner of a putty knife or a utility knife. Bump the top frame of the sash with your hand or a rubber mallet to loosen it, then try raising the window. Read on to find out more. Read in full.

Betty asks, “I recently had my septic tank pumped out and noticed a steady stream of water coming from the house drain pipe into the tank. Where could it be coming from?”

The most likely culprit is a leaking toilet, but there are a couple of other possibilities to consider as well. Read on to find out more. Read in full.

Desiree’ asks, “After draining a hot water heater, do you reset the pressure valve before refilling the tank or after?”

It’s important to remember to close the pressure relief valve on the hot water heater when you are through draining it. Otherwise, water will run out the valve and through the discharge pipe once it refills. Since the pressure relief valve vents at the top of the tank, you could wait until the tank is full before closing it, but it’s better to close it when you start refilling the tank in case you forget. Read more to find out how to go about it. Read in full.

Carolyn asks, “How can I keep my appliances clean?”

One way to keep appliances from showing smudges and fingerprints is to choose one with a textured finish. Stainless steel is also a good choice, but make sure to select models that are a composite of stainless steel and other ingredients, such as nickel, which help make them almost smudge proof. Watch this video.

Earle asks, “How can I remove tiles without breaking them?”

If the tiles are firmly attached, you may not be able to remove them without breaking, but here’s how to give it a try. Read in full.

Ilona asks, “At what temperatures does it become too hot (or cold) to paint your house?”

The maximum and minimum recommended temperatures for exterior paint vary depending on the type (oil or latex) and specific brand of paint used, but a general rule of thumb is that oil-based paint can be applied when the temperatures are between 40°- 90° F and latex between 50°- 85° F. Read on to find out more. Read in full.

Zeb asks, “Can you give me some advice on how to hire a decent handyman?”

Start by asking how many years they’ve been in business, how they price their work, and if they provide a free estimate. It’s also important to be sure they carry liability insurance in case they are injured on the job. Watch this video.

Deepak asks, “I have 30-year-old insulated windows. A salesman told me that the seals are broken, and I am losing heat. To me the seals look fine and I speculate that broken seals should lead to condensation in the double panes. What is the best way to determine if the seals are leaking and windows need replacement?”

While condensation or discoloration inside the glass usually occurs when the seals are broken, there are other factors to consider that can affect the insulation performance of your windows even if the seals are intact. Read on to find out more. Read in full.