March 22, 2014

New Series: The Home Improvement/DIY Thread - [Niedermeyer's Dead Horse and Countrysquire]
— Open Blogger

Coming up with fresh ideas for a weekly car thread can be a challenge, so we are taking this opportunity to mix it up a bit. The plan is to rotate out the Car and HI/DIY threads every other week.

We hope it meets with your approval.

For our first edition of the Home Improvement/DIY thread, let's start off with the basics, and with a bit of Spring cleaning:


When looking for a Spring cleaning checklist I came across several which suggested you set aside a full week for cleaning, to which, naturally, my reaction was to recoil in horror. If you have kept your home even moderately clean throughout the Winter months, and unless you are scrubbing soot off the walls, it should take considerably less time to accomplish a fresh, clean sweep throughout the house. I much prefer this approach:


The Winter months are hard on a house so you might want to perform a bit of Spring maintenance as well. This article is a good place to start:


Tools. Everybody loves tools. And, whether a renter or a homeowner, everyone should own at least a basic set of tools. This slide show lists the tools you should own, starting with the most basic, all the way through to the advanced DIY'er. I'm proud to say that I own most on this list. You may have a few other suggestions as well.


For the inaugural HI/DIY video, we'll start off with something simple. I like this video because it's just a guy, doing a job, and making it look as simple as pie:


And, if you enjoy watching HGTV or other home improvement shows, I suggest you check out this show as well. Host, Robert Matthew Van Winkle, may be more familiar to you under his stage name, Vanilla Ice. And, contrary to what we may have thought of him in the 80's, it seems he is quite bright and hard-working and, his shows are a lot of fun.


For the Moronettes, c'mon, is there any other choice for this week's photo?


And, for the Morons, well, I think the choice is obvious:


Please feel free to send any complaints or commendations to us at Twitter: Nied's Dead Horse and Countrysquire.

Posted by: Open Blogger at 12:03 PM | Comments (352)
Post contains 387 words, total size 4 kb.

1 Probably not first, But FWIW, just had some stuff installed to try to fix my side yard drainage problem. A catch well to get the water coming from the yards above me (and move it to the street) and some dirt to level the swale. If it's not enough, window wells and more dirt seems to be the solution.

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 12:07 PM (HDwDg)

2 Well, this is timely. I just discovered that I need to redo a master bath. The discovery was accompanied by much cursing. This week, I did use my sons' Spring Break to get rid of 25 years of stuff which had accumulated. So far, 3 8 yard dumpster loads. That feels good. Oh, and first. Maybe.

Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 12:09 PM (YAGV/)

3 Just maintaining this place is an 8 hour a day job.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 12:10 PM (aDwsi)

4 tsrblke, a French drain? It's the one thing the French do well.

Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 12:10 PM (YAGV/)

5 When looking for a Spring cleaning checklist I came across several which suggested you set aside a full week for cleaning, to which, naturally, my reaction was to recoil in horror. If you have kept your home even moderately clean throughout the Winter months, and unless you are scrubbing soot off the walls, it should take considerably less time to accomplish a fresh, clean sweep throughout the house. I much prefer this approach: Clearly you have never been to my home. . It would take me a week and more to do all of that.

Posted by: grammie winger at March 22, 2014 12:11 PM (Vg/fl)

6 Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 04:10 PM (YAGV/) Landscaper recommended against a French drain. He said they tend to clog overtime and have to be dug up and replaced. He's actually the second person to recommend against it (and the other person wasn't giving us a bid, it was a friend we asked for advice.)

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 12:13 PM (HDwDg)

7 I ain't cleaning nothing!

Posted by: Pigpen at March 22, 2014 12:13 PM (oFCZn)

8 Step 3 alone would take me a week.

Posted by: grammie winger at March 22, 2014 12:14 PM (Vg/fl)

9 Clearly you have never been to my home. . It would take me a week and more to do all of that. Posted by: grammie winger ---------------- Same here, probably two weeks.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 12:15 PM (aDwsi)

10 tsrblke, that's news to me. I had one at my first house and it worked like a charm for the ten years we lived there.

Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 12:16 PM (YAGV/)

11 Well timed! I'm just about to undertake Round II of house cleaning. This time, powered by rock and roll and beer vice coffee and classical.

Posted by: All Hail Eris at March 22, 2014 12:16 PM (QBm1P)

12 Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 04:16 PM (YAGV/) I've heard it repeatedly, that they fill with silt and roots and stuff and have to be replaced every 10 years or so. Better to either catch the water and throw it forward (which is what we're doing at the hill in the corner of the yard) or build up dirt and keep the flow away from the house. We'll see how this works. I figure the vast majority of water is now being caught by the catch basin anyway.

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 12:19 PM (HDwDg)

13 The brand new, shiny, green house and tractor garage: http://greyttimes.com/?p=809

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:20 PM (x3YFz)

14 If it's just a small house, or one side of a house, the french drain should be okay. Just don't overdo it. Get the PVC slotted stuff, a decent, but not too deep, bed of sand and gravel, blast good with a powerful hose in the Spring and Fall, be all set.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:22 PM (ZshNr)

15 The brand new, shiny, green house and tractor garage: *** very nice!

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:22 PM (DmNpO)

16 Mike Hammer?
Like I mentioned on the dead thread?

If you need a magnifier, google machinist's suppliers. They all sell them, some quite clever- Enco comes to mind. No doubt there are many others, now. I'd bet Amazon sells them, too.

Posted by: backhoe at March 22, 2014 12:24 PM (ULH4o)

17 T9, cool greenhouse!  What's growing?




(I've bought the plans to build one after Texas relocation.)

Posted by: Steck at March 22, 2014 12:24 PM (5i94q)

18 Cool greenhouse.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:24 PM (ZshNr)

19 Cheeseburger in Paradise

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:25 PM (ZshNr)

20 I'm going through Decluttering Stage II.  That will probably take several months, given that I have limited garbage removal.  (No, the landlord would not like a huge garbage bin parked on our side yard.  Plus, we probably couldn't afford it.  So it's slow.)

Plus my carpet scrubber crapped out (that alone takes most of a day).  Total spring housecleaning in one day?  Ain't gonna happen!

Posted by: Empire1 at March 22, 2014 12:28 PM (gi5rB)

21 The photo of the idiot caulking brick to siding.
Do not do it. It's fine to caulk window edges to brick and door trim, but that's it.

Or, go right ahead if you're an idiot and if there's any frame movement at all, you get to pay me for re-bricking half your wall. Think somewhere in the 3 grand range.
You're welcome

Posted by: Dick (@DicksTrash) at March 22, 2014 12:28 PM (GrtrJ)

22 ace loves the caulk.

Posted by: The Savage Weiner at March 22, 2014 12:28 PM (6j8ke)

23 17 T9, cool greenhouse! What's growing? (I've bought the plans to build one after Texas relocation.) Posted by: Steck at March 22, 2014 04:24 PM (5i94q) All my cop buddies suggested weed (cops.../shakes head) We're starting with hard to kill stuff to get our feel for it: melons, strawberries, carrots and the like.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:29 PM (x3YFz)

24 More related to previous thread so I guess OT.

"Why do you want to work for X?"

Should I answer "I need a job?"

Posted by: Anna Puma (+SmuD) at March 22, 2014 12:30 PM (BL00c)

25 Whatever you grow, make moonshine out of all the failed-to-thrives, that's my plan. No greenhouse though.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:30 PM (ZshNr)

26 those spring cleaning tips are hilarious - what is that from, a Woman's Day circa 1950s?

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 12:34 PM (8lmkt)

27
We hope it meets with your approval.

No.  And now you must die!

but have a nice dessert first.

Posted by: Guy Mohawk at March 22, 2014 12:35 PM (0Kobm)

28 There's a squirrel drinking from my gold panning water bin, which I haven't used yet this year. I think he's mocking me. I'm too lazy to get out the bags and tweezers and blah blah blah. Just not my day to do anything.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:35 PM (ZshNr)

29 "The Winter months are hard on a house so you might want to perform a bit of Spring maintenance as well."

I prefer to do all exterior house maintenance in the fall. It allows potential wintertime trouble to be spotted and corrected before conditions become unfavorable to outdoor labor.

Spring is for interior cleaning. Not least because as houses become tighter for energy efficiency and are buttoned up all winter, then once things warm up again, scouting for mildew becomes really important.

Posted by: torquewrench at March 22, 2014 12:35 PM (noWW6)

30 I don't think so, Tim!

Posted by: Al Borland at March 22, 2014 12:35 PM (aTXUx)

31 those spring cleaning tips are hilarious - what is that from, a Woman's Day circa 1950s? *** I see nothing in there about donning your apron and your pearls.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:36 PM (DmNpO)

32 Now some guy with a croak voice. Sounds familiar, can't nail it yet.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:38 PM (ZshNr)

33 24 Whatever you grow, make moonshine out of all the failed-to-thrives, that's my plan. No greenhouse though. Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 04:30 PM (ZshNr) As a cowboy, grew up on a ranch. I ran cattle and know all kinds of boring things about cattle, which I will not share with you kind folk because it's... just not entertaining. But, in my travels, I never was a farmer. Sure I moved hand lines at 0500 for $0.25 a pipe as a kid prior to 2-a-day football practice, but everyone did that, right? Anyway, sheep and chickens... not my thing. However. I recently learned those feathered little critters drop around 5 eggs a week! Chicken coop incoming.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:38 PM (x3YFz)

34 Niedermeyer, in the 50s, women did not have to be told to put on their aprons and pearls.  They just did it. 

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 12:38 PM (8lmkt)

35 "Way up high, way down low, I'll go wherever you go....."?

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:38 PM (ZshNr)

36 Dick @ 21,

How's the arm doing?

Posted by: ChrisP at March 22, 2014 12:39 PM (Z6lrM)

37 Empire, that's too bad about getting a dumpster. It's a lifesaver. Just find a good one. I lucked out with a company that was the cheapest and delivered and picked up within 10 minutes of the promised times. I couldn't be happier. Plus, my wife is overjoyed that the basement and garage are clean leading to bonus "us" time this weekend.

Posted by: RS at March 22, 2014 12:39 PM (YAGV/)

38 Bra holds more than big boobs - it can be a tool belt too https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rjVsBqdLwA

Posted by: kbdabear at March 22, 2014 12:39 PM (aTXUx)

39

Mmm...Mike Rove. I love that guy.

He's put himself in grave danger, though...by making too much sense.

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 12:39 PM (2CHxD)

40 That's kind of a light list for spring cleaning...what about washing walls and carpets? Not that I do that when I am supposed to, but I do feel appropriately guilty.

BTW how often are you supposed to deep clean your carpets, if at all? I know someone who rents one of those machines and does it once a month!

I'm thinking of renting one of those things and washing my carpet. Any thoughts on that, yay or nay?

Posted by: PJ at March 22, 2014 12:39 PM (ZWaLo)

41 replacing my concrete porch steps with wooden deck stringer type steps tomorrow. they will land on the existing concrete slab so I'm figuring on pounding in some concrete nails for the stop, though unsure that's the way to go.

Posted by: Bigby's Knuckle Sandwich at March 22, 2014 12:40 PM (KgN8K)

42 If I could, I would...."

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:40 PM (ZshNr)

43 Niedermeyer, in the 50s, women did not have to be told to put on their aprons and pearls. They just did it. *** remind me again... who was the commenter who used to go batshit insane over the suggestion that anything untoward ever happened prior to 1970?

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:40 PM (DmNpO)

44

My spring cleaning efforts are still in the recon stage.

 

And so far, everywhere I look there are chores screaming out at me, saying:

"Me first! Do me first!"

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 12:41 PM (2CHxD)

45 That's kind of a light list for spring cleaning...what about washing walls and carpets? Not that I do that when I am supposed to, but I do feel appropriately guilty. BTW how often are you supposed to deep clean your carpets, if at all? I know someone who rents one of those machines and does it once a month! I'm thinking of renting one of those things and washing my carpet. Any thoughts on that, yay or nay? *** this is why I love hardwood floors.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:41 PM (DmNpO)

46 Yeah, but I'd shoot them in , not pound them in. If you don't have a sufficient nail gun, ask a handy friend or even a hardware store for a loaner.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:41 PM (ZshNr)

47 Yea! Thank you for this.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 12:41 PM (SUKHu)

48 I learned this one from an old school plumber.

If you need to solder on a valve, and upstream there is a leak it can be impossible to heat the copper up enough to get a good joint.

So what you do is take a chunk of bread and stuff it up into the pipe to hold the leak off long enough to solder on the connection.

Then just open it up and purge all of the bread.

Posted by: Kestrel on Vacay at March 22, 2014 12:41 PM (t9IGw)

49 Spring clean The Barrel? Are you kidding me!?

Posted by: AoSHQ Janitorial Service at March 22, 2014 12:42 PM (1CroS)

50 "Me first! Do me first!" Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 04:41 PM (2CHxD) You do realize you posted that on Ace of Spades?

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:42 PM (x3YFz)

51 The photo of the idiot caulking brick to siding. Do not do it. It's fine to caulk window edges to brick and door trim, but that's it. Or, go right ahead if you're an idiot and if there's any frame movement at all, you get to pay me for re-bricking half your wall. Think somewhere in the 3 grand range. You're welcome *** that's siding?

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:43 PM (DmNpO)

52 Would someone please explain to me why names of seasons (spring, fall, etc.) aren't considered proper nouns?  I mean, what the Hell.  Or what the hell.  (That's another one.)

Its really stupid; and if you disagree your an idiot

Posted by: A Failed Andy Rooney Impersonator at March 22, 2014 12:43 PM (e15Qx)

53 BTW how often are you supposed to deep clean your carpets, if at all? I know someone who rents one of those machines and does it once a month!

That's insane.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 12:43 PM (8lmkt)

54 this is why I love hardwood floors. Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 04:41 PM (DmNpO) So I'm not the only one who looks at his hardwood floor and cries "Thank You!" ???

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:44 PM (x3YFz)

55 Would someone please explain to me why names of seasons (spring, fall, etc.) aren't considered proper nouns? I mean, what the Hell. Or what the hell. (That's another one.) Its really stupid; and if you disagree your an idiot *** they are, hence my capitalization in the post.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:45 PM (DmNpO)

56 Spring cleaning at the White House ...

Posted by: The Orkin Man at March 22, 2014 12:45 PM (jYZt5)

57 I was sweeping my hardwood floor and wrote this little song: "Carpet is ghey" the end.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:45 PM (x3YFz)

58 BTW how often are you supposed to deep clean your carpets, if at all? I know someone who rents one of those machines and does it once a month! That's insane. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 04:43 PM (8lmkt) When I was a kid my mom knew someone who cleaned out her kitchen cabinets once a week.

Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 12:45 PM (8pqpP)

59 >>I'm thinking of renting one of those things and washing my carpet. Any thoughts on that, yay or nay? I have my own, so I don't know about the rental ones. I have a vacuum cleaning with a sensor thingie that tells me to keep going or that this spot is good and clean. Whatever pathways take longest to get vacuumed, also tend to need more cleaning. So I don't do the whole moving furniture and cleaning every bit of a room, but instead do the pathways around the furniture. And I really really need to use it on two more rooms soon. Rain => mud => need to clean. Go easy on the soap. You can get lots of dirt up just with water.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 12:46 PM (SUKHu)

60 So I'm not the only one who looks at his hardwood floor and cries "Thank You!" ??? *** Folks argue that hardwood is cold but, pshaw!, that's what rugs are for. And when a rug gets dirty, you can take it to the cleaners or throw it out and buy a new one.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:46 PM (DmNpO)

61 "Me first! Do me first!"

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 04:41 PM (2CHxD)

You do realize you posted that on Ace of Spades?

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 04:42 PM (x3YFz)


bwahahahaha!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 12:46 PM (8lmkt)

62 Handy guide http://professional-power-tool-guide.com/2012/09/video-of-the-day/

Posted by: kbdabear at March 22, 2014 12:46 PM (aTXUx)

63 Its really stupid; and if you disagree your an idiot Posted by: A Failed Andy Rooney Impersonator at March 22, 2014 04:43 PM (e15Qx) LOL... I like this guy.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:47 PM (x3YFz)

64 Now that we've got the new roof, no complaints by the way, our next projects are localized ceiling repair, install a shower in the second bath, and then, finally, getting those DIY tongue in groove "hardwood" floors in the den where I spend 75% of my home time. Right now it's basically indoor/outdoor carpet worn to the slab.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:47 PM (ZshNr)

65 Do not buy Craftsman power tools.

That is all.

Posted by: Taro Tsujimoto at March 22, 2014 12:49 PM (celt+)

66 they are, hence my capitalization in the post.

ha ha thats only art Of the Joke

Posted by: hipsterception at March 22, 2014 12:50 PM (e15Qx)

67 So... I want to remove paint from the molding in the living room. It's not ancient and lead filled. It's one coat of paint that is chipping in places already. It's not even on all the molding; thankfully not the stuff on the ceiling (it's three rings of crown molding, because the ceiling is raised higher in the middle of the room). But the baseboard is painted. Suggestions for getting it off without ruining the carpet or killing off the kids 'n cat? And me, I guess!

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 12:50 PM (SUKHu)

68 Pamela Anderson looked so much better before all the plastic surgery IMHO.

Posted by: Insomniac at March 22, 2014 12:50 PM (mx5oN)

69

39...BTW how often are you supposed to deep clean your carpets, if at all? I know someone who rents one of those machines and does it once a month!

 

I'm thinking of renting one of those things and washing my carpet. Any thoughts on that, yay or nay?

 

Posted by: PJ at March 22, 2014 04:39 PM (ZWaLo)

 

---------

 

As far as 'how often', it depends...on how dirty they are, how often they get dirty and whether you have kids playing on the carpet.

 

If you have pets and kids, then yeah...you might need to do it monthly.

 

Good suction is the big thing with carpet cleaning machines.

Even the ones that look like monsters can be weak in the suction department.

 

You want a machine that will suck up as much water as possible and leave the carpet damp...not soaked.

I put old towels down over the 'path' areas afterward, and keep changing them till it is all dry.

 

I bought a Bissel years ago, and it is really quite good.

It's more than paid for itself...in not having to rent.

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 12:50 PM (2CHxD)

70 Cleaning thread so I had to grab the bedspread and toss it in the wash.  I am in the Grammie Winger camp.  A good decluttering would take a week.  Or I could do a good cleaning on One room in the house in a day and that would have a better chance of happening since my mind shuts down and refuses to decide toss/keep/where to put after a hour or so of trying to declutter.

Posted by: PaleRider at March 22, 2014 12:51 PM (m+nIW)

71 er, "Part"

Posted by: incompetant at March 22, 2014 12:51 PM (e15Qx)

72 Important tip Before starting your spring cleaning, appropriate attire is vital http://tinyurl.com/pvd5jhe

Posted by: kbdabear at March 22, 2014 12:51 PM (aTXUx)

73 We're currently growing strawberries in the kitchen. Little covered plastic thingy. I bet the wife $20 that they would sprout according to a mathematical series. 1 1 2 3 5 8 13... fibonacci sequence. Takers? 10:1 I'm right.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:52 PM (x3YFz)

74 I want to remove paint from the molding in the living room. It's not ancient and lead filled. It's one coat of paint that is chipping in places already. It's not even on all the molding; thankfully not the stuff on the ceiling (it's three rings of crown molding, because the ceiling is raised higher in the middle of the room). But the baseboard is painted. Suggestions for getting it off without ruining the carpet or killing off the kids 'n cat? And me, I guess! *** If the paint chips aren't deep, perhaps you can skim coat a dab of putty to smooth them out and then paint over them.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:52 PM (DmNpO)

75 It's all fun and games until you realize your 90+ year old home is loaded with lead paint and settled dust EVERYWHERE and every little renovation or repair requires some careful prep, dust protection, and thorough cleanup. GAH!

Posted by: Blue Falcon in Boston at March 22, 2014 12:52 PM (A1Dcl)

76 >>And so far, everywhere I look there are chores screaming out at me, saying: "Me first! Do me first!" Don't believe the stories my kids are telling about me standing in the middle of the house today turning in circles, not sure where to start.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 12:52 PM (SUKHu)

77 Ahhhhh...spring time hope springs eternal. President Carson and Vice Preezy Cain 2016....the SoooooooouuuuuLLLLL Train Ticket! Got my vote....

Posted by: IrishEd at March 22, 2014 12:53 PM (bfm04)

78 >>If the paint chips aren't deep Oh, no, I mean the idiots, err previous owners painted the molding. On purpose. Half of the wood in the room.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 12:54 PM (SUKHu)

79 Meanwhile Iran is building a 2/3rds scale model of USS Nimitz.  Reason unknown.

http://tinyurl.com/mope3r9

Posted by: Anna Puma (+SmuD) at March 22, 2014 12:54 PM (BL00c)

80 NDH Excellent post. You forgot step one in Spring Cleaning. Call Juan make sure he's got at least two days free.

Posted by: Nip Sip at March 22, 2014 12:54 PM (0FSuD)

81 Before starting your spring cleaning, appropriate attire is vital http://tinyurl.com/pvd5jhe Posted by: kbdabear at March 22, 2014 04:51 PM (aTXUx) Is that on Amazon? Free shipping? I'll take 5.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:54 PM (x3YFz)

82 #66 infrared paint remover, common brand is the "silent paint remover", (not a heat gun) followed up by a nylon scrub brush and HEPA shop vac combo to collect the flakes as they pop off.

Posted by: Blue Falcon in Boston at March 22, 2014 12:55 PM (A1Dcl)

83 "I'm figuring on pounding in some concrete nails for the stop"

Use a hammer drill to make pilot holes and then twist in screw anchors.

Trust me on this.

Posted by: torquewrench at March 22, 2014 12:55 PM (noWW6)

84 79 Meanwhile Iran is building a 2/3rds scale model of USS Nimitz. Reason unknown. http://tinyurl.com/mope3r9 Posted by: Anna Puma (+SmuD) at March 22, 2014 04:54 PM (BL00c) Target practice?

Posted by: Insomniac at March 22, 2014 12:55 PM (mx5oN)

85 not sure where to start. Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 04:52 PM (SUKHu) With a "come ta jesus" meetin'?

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 12:56 PM (x3YFz)

86 It's all fun and games until you realize your 90+ year old home is loaded with lead paint and settled dust EVERYWHERE and every little renovation or repair requires some careful prep, dust protection, and thorough cleanup. GAH! *** In my home, when I was an owner, I stripped off all the lead paint from the dining room including the ceiling, using chemical stripper. It took forever, and I do mean forever, because every layer of paint seemed to want to come off separately. The lady who had lived there all those years had apparently redecorated every 5-7 years.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:57 PM (DmNpO)

87 We used to use the .22 blank gun when fastening pressure-treated to cured concrete. Gotta pick the right nail, get it right the first time.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 12:57 PM (ZshNr)

88 3 Just maintaining this place is an 8 hour a day job. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 04:10 PM (aDwsi) That and shoveling this years snow, ha ha. More on the way Tuesday!

Posted by: Nip Sip at March 22, 2014 12:57 PM (0FSuD)

89 the french drain was invented by an american! henry flagg french, born in the 1800's created the system and he also was assistant us treasury secretary, he wrote the book on farm drainage. my suggestion as also indicated upthread is to get a second opinion, preferably from a concrete contractor.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 12:57 PM (1YgVg)

90 Excellent post. You forgot step one in Spring Cleaning. Call Juan make sure he's got at least two days free. *** Thanks, and DUH!

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 12:58 PM (DmNpO)

91

.....pounding in some concrete nails for the stop, though unsure that's the way to go.

 

I would use those anchors that require a drilled hole and a lag screw.  They come in many sizes.  Of course you will need a carbide tipped bit to drill the concrete.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 12:58 PM (puNd6)

92 Also essential to any form of Spring Cleaning (which I'm in the middle of myself) is proper hydration. Of course, I'm referring to alcohol in mass quantities. Beer, Valu-Rite, absinthe, liqueur, virtually anything to take the edge off.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 12:59 PM (0HooB)

93 We used to use the .22 blank gun when fastening pressure-treated to cured concrete. Gotta pick the right nail, get it right the first time. Posted by: Lincolntf -------------- AKA 'Ramset' A terrific tool, but as you point out, the nail/load combination is critical.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:00 PM (aDwsi)

94 "infrared paint remover, common brand is the 'silent paint remover'"

This is a tool I have heard of but have never used. Comments invited.

There are a few places around here with half a century of multilayered paint, some of it almost certainly lead containing. I'd like it to go away but I surely do not want to sand that crap, even with a respirator and HEPA vac.

Posted by: torquewrench at March 22, 2014 01:01 PM (noWW6)

95 Oof, that half-hearted spate of light housecleaning was exhausting. I'm spent! ((sips beer))

Posted by: All Hail Eris at March 22, 2014 01:01 PM (QBm1P)

96 Of course, I'm referring to alcohol in mass quantities. Beer, Valu-Rite, absinthe, liqueur, virtually anything to take the edge off.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit at March 22, 2014 04:59 PM (0HooB)


Yup.  It's also a good way to ensure that one doesn't overdo the cleaning on any given day -- you will know exactly when to knock off and leave the rest for later.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:01 PM (8lmkt)

97 >>#66 infrared paint remover, common brand is the "silent paint remover", (not a heat gun) followed up by a nylon scrub brush and HEPA shop vac combo to collect the flakes as they pop off. Hmm. Might it be cheaper to hire a carpenter who owns those things to do it for me? It's just the molding in two rooms... And I have a carpenter I need to call about 2 things anyway. Thank you!

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 01:02 PM (SUKHu)

98 Today I am tackling the bane of my existence. The second closet in the master bedroom. Why does it exist? It's weird and small and it has those stupid doors that make it so that you can only ever see one half at a time. That's why it's full to the brim with crap. So much crap. Time to purge and figure out a way to make it useful. Step one? Bye bye stupid doors.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:02 PM (hFL/3)

99 Anytime there are not a *lot* of fasteners, and they are not exposed to weather, I generally use Tapcons. Having a hammer drill and proper bits to make holes eases the task considerably.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:02 PM (aDwsi)

100 Our greenhouse general contractor showed up this morning. I'll need to set the stage here a bit. He left the vent fan with 2 12V DC wires hanging 8 feet in the air. The screws on the entry way through the panels were protruding from the inside to the point they're a safety issue. So. Me being me. I clipped on my Sig P228, chose the SEAL Team 3 Chris Kyle T-shirt and had a chat with him. Oddly enough, everything will apparently be fixed in the greenhouse tomorrow. heh.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:02 PM (x3YFz)

101 Ramset! Damn, that was driving me crazy. Thanks.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:03 PM (ZshNr)

102 >>this is why I love hardwood floors. Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 04:41 PM (DmNpO) So I'm not the only one who looks at his hardwood floor and cries "Thank You!" ??? Posted by: tangonine So. What are we REALLY really about here?

Posted by: Aviator at March 22, 2014 01:04 PM (3rrMW)

103 The car threads were more interesting. Later.

Posted by: Mirror-Universe Mitt Romney at March 22, 2014 01:05 PM (9W+0f)

104 tangonine, it is SO important to have good lines of communication with any contractor.  be nice if you had pics, though. 

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:05 PM (8lmkt)

105 101 Ramset! Damn, that was driving me crazy. Thanks. --------------- We endeavor to provide satisfactory service.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:05 PM (aDwsi)

106 That is probably he way to go, Tap cons.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:05 PM (ZshNr)

107 Yup. It's also a good way to ensure that one doesn't overdo the cleaning on any given day -- you will know exactly when to knock off and leave the rest for later. B'Gal chuckles at me for vacuuming whilst drinking a Guinness. Hopefully, I can get Rosie (our Roomba) fixed here soon, so I can watch her work while drinking.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:06 PM (0HooB)

108 when the general contractor looks you in the eye and asks to speak with your wife... ..and you say "no. You talk to me." game's over. I win.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:06 PM (x3YFz)

109

100...So.

 

Me being me. I clipped on my Sig P228, chose the SEAL Team 3 Chris Kyle T-shirt and had a chat with him.

 

Oddly enough, everything will apparently be fixed in the greenhouse tomorrow.

heh.

 

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 05:02 PM (x3YFz)

 

------------

 

Haa! ...And I'll bet he will be very well behaved while doing it.

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:07 PM (2CHxD)

110 So I'm not the only one who looks at his hardwood floor and cries "Thank You!" ??? --------------- Same thing I said...

Posted by: Joe Biden at March 22, 2014 01:07 PM (aDwsi)

111 ...Me being me. I clipped on my Sig P228, chose the SEAL Team 3 Chris Kyle T-shirt and had a chat with him. tangonine!...i like your style!

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 01:07 PM (1YgVg)

112 Housecleaning...hmm.

This is how I usually spend a 'staycation'.  And then it's back to (paid) work.

Never enough hours in a day or dollars in the bank to get it all done at once.

Posted by: JeanQ at March 22, 2014 01:09 PM (82lr7)

113 So. What are we REALLY really about here? Posted by: Aviator at March 22, 2014 05:04 PM (3rrMW) hey now! Tile. But that's not what we're talking about.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:10 PM (x3YFz)

114 I have had so many bad experiences with contractors that I just do not trust any of them to do craftsman-like work. Most seem to fit in the competence category of handyman.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:10 PM (aDwsi)

115 NOT Pam Anderson that SKANKosaur! Give Me Alison Vitcoria

Posted by: Evilpens at March 22, 2014 01:10 PM (xxjaY)

116 103 The car threads were more interesting. Later. Posted by: Mirror-Universe Mitt Romney at March 22, 2014 05:05 PM (9W+0f) Douchebag says whut?

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 01:10 PM (oFCZn)

117 >>Rosie (our Roomba) Ours is named Goomba!

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 01:11 PM (SUKHu)

118 Douchebag says whut?

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 05:10 PM (oFCZn)


That was incredibly churlish of him. 

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:11 PM (8lmkt)

119 I've got it! Car cleaning. Nah..., I'll just open all of the doors on the next windy day.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:11 PM (aDwsi)

120 game's over. I win. This comment entitles you, T9, to two punches on your Man Card, along with the cold frosty beverage of your choosing. Please to be watching your USB port...

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:12 PM (0HooB)

121 http://adrinkwith.com/alison-victoria/

Posted by: Evilpens at March 22, 2014 01:12 PM (xxjaY)

122 tangonine!...i like your style! Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:07 PM (1YgVg) I'm decidedly not a SEAL. Bad eyes. Oh and the part where I'm skared of water, which is important. And they're like HUGE! (I have some SEAL friends). The hell do they grow these critters?

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:12 PM (x3YFz)

123 5 Clearly you have never been to my home. . It would take me a week month and more to do all any of that. Fixed.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:13 PM (sdi6R)

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:14 PM (sdi6R)

125 Ew, cars.  I rode out to the range last Sunday in our friend's Land Rover and it was very kind of him to do the driving.  He is the father of my favorite 6-year-old.  The inside of the car was, well, I've seen cleaner dumpsters.  I was astonished!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:14 PM (8lmkt)

126

I would love to get rid of our carpet.

 

Hubby wants hardwood floors...but I want tile.

Don't get me wrong, I love hardwood floors, they are beautiful.

 

But wood floors require maintenance too.

So I figure if we're going for 'low maintenance' hard-surface floors...then tile is the way to go.

 

We have a big doggeh with toenails that are like garden tool claws.

I know what kind of scratches he would put on hardwood floors.

Tile wouldn't get scratched up like wood floors would.

 

Now...if we can just get the kids to the point that they're not tapping The Bank of Mom and Dad all the time...

Then we could afford to do the floors.

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:14 PM (2CHxD)

127 Peaches - FWIW, a friend of mine finally (reluctantly) sold his 1995 Jeep Cherokee the other day. It was just shot. Poised for major repairs at ~200K miles. Replacement? 2014 Subaru Forrester. He's still aghast at the gee-gaws and gimcracks.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:14 PM (aDwsi)

128 I want a greenhouse. Wah. Jealous, but happy for you.

Posted by: Justamom at March 22, 2014 01:15 PM (Sptt8)

129 The inside of the car was, well, I've seen cleaner dumpsters. I was astonished! Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:14 PM (8lmkt) I don't/can't comprehend that whole 'your car is a trashcan' thing. but it gives you a picture of the mental state of the owner of said car.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:15 PM (x3YFz)

130 The car threads were more interesting. Later. *** heh

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:17 PM (DmNpO)

131 Oh, Mike, I had the reverse experience when I went from an older, but top of the line, Infiniti to my Jeep Liberty.  It doesn't even have that button where you can see the outside temperature (still miss that, like it ever matters in SoCal).  And I won't open the windows for anything, due to the cloth interior.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:17 PM (8lmkt)

132 We have a big doggeh with toenails that are like garden tool claws. I know what kind of scratches he would put on hardwood floors. Tile wouldn't get scratched up like wood floors would. Now...if we can just get the kids to the point that they're not tapping The Bank of Mom and Dad all the time... Then we could afford to do the floors. Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 05:14 PM (2CHxD) There is tile available that looks very much like wood. I've seen quite a few commercial spaces that put it in. Looks great.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:17 PM (GEICT)

133 Moar guns, bitches!

Posted by: SD3 at March 22, 2014 01:17 PM (lNTV5)

134 I want a greenhouse. Wah. Jealous, but happy for you. Posted by: Justamom at March 22, 2014 05:15 PM (Sptt Sure. Now I feel bad for posting the linky. That freaking thing was $10K (it's the damn windows). I'll hook you up with some fruit. Promise. By May we'll be growing madness in there.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:18 PM (x3YFz)

135 I don't/can't comprehend that whole 'your car is a trashcan' thing.

but it gives you a picture of the mental state of the owner of said car.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 05:15 PM (x3YFz)


No, he's the most dapper guy I know, always looks amazing, does custom cabinetry and furniture for a living, lovely home.  Just the car and probably due to the darlin' girl.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:18 PM (8lmkt)

136 I would love to get rid of our carpet. Hubby wants hardwood floors...but I want tile. Don't get me wrong, I love hardwood floors, theyare beautiful. But wood floors require maintenance too. So I figure if we're going for 'low maintenance' hard-surface floors...then tile is the way to go. We have a big doggeh with toenails that are like garden tool claws. I know what kind of scratches he would put on hardwood floors. Tile wouldn't get scratched up like wood floors would. Now...if we can just get the kids to the point that they're not tapping The Bank of Mom and Dad all the time... Then we could afford to do the floors. *** Yeaaah. Dogs are way harder on floors than cats.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:18 PM (DmNpO)

137 I love our wood floors and son hasn't had a single bad asthma attack since getting rid of carpet. But, noisy. Especially bedrooms at night. As in, hear each other sneeze. Not good.

Posted by: Justamom at March 22, 2014 01:19 PM (Sptt8)

138 There is tile available that looks very much like wood. I've seen quite a few commercial spaces that put it in. Looks great. Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 05:17 PM (GEICT) Laminate floors. Cheap, easy cleaning, german shepherd resistant. Trust me.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:19 PM (x3YFz)

139 >>So I figure if we're going for 'low maintenance' hard-surface floors...then tile is the way to go. What bugs me about the tile we have (well, besides the colors*) is that it's kind of...thick, so it's hard to get the grout clean with scrubbing it with a brush. *Okay, truthfully, the colors and the fact that it's the same faux distressed tile all over the house. Same in the bathrooms as the kitchen.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 01:19 PM (SUKHu)

140 Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 05:17 PM (DmNpO) If what he's doing is a shtick it got old a while ago.

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:20 PM (HDwDg)

141 I have a friend who put the wood look tile down. It really does look very good. The only issue is that it has a different feel than wood that sort of throws you off for a second, but I think it's a good option.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:21 PM (hFL/3)

142 Wheatie - Do not assume that tile will be maintainance-free. Dirt in the grout, cracking of tile/grout. Anything dropped on it will break. My biggest dislike is that it is relatively 'cold' in bare feet as well as in presence. Contemporary finishes are pretty tough. Take a look at a restaurant table that has a clear urethane finish. They take a real beating, and yet, retain their finish.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:21 PM (aDwsi)

143 My house is about 30 y.o.   Many  things are  showing age.  Exterior needs paint, gutters  have holes, sewer pump quit,  toilet lever broke off, etc.  Of course when I went to replace the  terlet lever, it had to be ordered.  Shipping cost more than the part.  I may have got the last one in existence. 

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (puNd6)

144 If what he's doing is a shtick it got old a while ago. Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 05:20 PM (HDwDg) Fixed

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (GEICT)

145 No, he's the most dapper guy I know, always looks amazing, does custom cabinetry and furniture for a living, lovely home. Just the car and probably due to the darlin' girl. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:18 PM (8lmkt) Strange, but I remember reading something about hoarders and in some instances these people were immaculate in public. Clothing, grooming, etc. were perfect and their homes were stuffed to the rafters with garbage.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (oFCZn)

146

132...There is tile available that looks very much like wood. I've seen quite a few commercial spaces that put it in. Looks great.

 

Oooo...that sounds perfect, BC!

Thanks. I'll look for it. 

 

I love tile.

We have it in some small areas of the house already.

It's great to use steaming hot water on a floor, and not have to worry about damaging it.

 

 

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (2CHxD)

147 What bugs me about the tile we have (well, besides the colors*) is that it's kind of...thick, so it's hard to get the grout clean with scrubbing it with a brush. Which reminds me, is there such a thing a grout sealant?

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (0HooB)

148 with the carbide drill bit, can I use a regular power drill with those?

Posted by: Bigby's Knuckle Sandwich at March 22, 2014 01:22 PM (KgN8K)

149 Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 05:19 PM (x3YFz) We've got some sort of vinyl that when we saw the house the first time I actually bent down to touch it because I thought it was tile. After living here a bit it's pretty obvious now, but for people just visiting every now and then they wouldn't even know. My dad's bank has put similar stuff in properties that actually has grout between it for added effect.

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (HDwDg)

150 No, he's the most dapper guy I know, always looks amazing, does custom cabinetry and furniture for a living, lovely home. Just the car and probably due to the darlin' girl. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:18 PM (8lmkt) Um... but you have to pause for a moment and consider why. Careful. Something's not right here. Look. I've had jobs where I worked 18 hours a day 6 months in a row with no break. Car. House. Clean. Why? Order, that's why. I'm ADD/OCD somewhat, but still... a trashcan car? Bad juju.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (x3YFz)

151 Ronster!!!!!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (8lmkt)

152 steps are reinforced cast concrete yay me

Posted by: Bigby's Knuckle Sandwich at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (KgN8K)

153 Hubby wants hardwood floors... Men are all the same.

Posted by: garrett at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (jgouf)

154 Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 05:22 PM (GEICT) Well if t's not a shtick, then "he's an asshole" was implied.

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:23 PM (HDwDg)

155 Peaches!...i'm so bummed, the ruger lc9 isn't on the doj list of approved handguns. and i simply can't find anything comparable to my liking. (sad)

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 01:25 PM (9klqA)

156 as grout sealant?

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:25 PM (0HooB)

157 Coincidentally, I did actually decide to clean my bathroom today. The tub is mostly done. Once the tub was clean enough to get into, I decided to try to fix the leaky faucet that I've been putting off. I've never done it before, but watched several YouTube videos and decided to attempt it. It came apart all right. I didn't break any pipes. But then I stripped the head of the screw that held the washer in. I went to Lowe's hoping that someone there could remove it, and also to buy new washers. But the guy wasn't much help. I also need a new seat, and they don't even sell those. He mentioned a plumbing supply place in the area. I drove there, but they were closed. Well, at least I know where to go for replacement parts. I might have to buy a new assembly if they can't get the screw out. Good thing I took a shower this morning, because it looks like I won't be able to do that for a few days.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:25 PM (sdi6R)

158 My dad's bank has put similar stuff in properties that actually has grout between it for added effect. Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 05:23 PM (HDwDg) I know exactly what you're talking about. That vinyl stuff in apartments. Looks great after installation. Also does a great job of harboring mold.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:25 PM (x3YFz)

159 Here's what the wood look tile looks like: http://tinypic.com/r/p4180/8

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:26 PM (hFL/3)

160 Which reminds me, is there such a thing a grout sealant? *** Yes, but if I were to ever put down tile in a home I owned, I'd pay someone to do it.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:26 PM (DmNpO)

161 Mike Rowe is from Baltimore and he used to be the guy on the Sunday morning "find your new home" show put on by local builders. He lived in my neighborhood somewhere (not sure where) but I used to run into him while I was walking my dogs and he was out running. Real good guy. He'd stop, pet the labs and we'd chat for a few minutes. I guess he's now big time...

Posted by: Timon at March 22, 2014 01:26 PM (kAniV)

162 and i simply can't find anything comparable to my liking. (sad) Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:25 PM (9klqA) Girl, you've come to the right place /arm over shoulder let the Horde guide you.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:27 PM (x3YFz)

163 Peaches!...i'm so bummed, the ruger lc9 isn't on the doj list of approved handguns.


and i simply can't find anything comparable to my liking.


(sad)

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:25 PM (9klqA)


Oh, sadface, concrete girl!  It looked pretty sweet to me.  Do you have to have a 9 or would you consider a wheel gun?  I love mine (Ruger SP101, but not the snubnose).

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (8lmkt)

164 Is linoleum the stuff they put in Nancy Pelosi's face? As for MUMR, I think he first showed up around the 2012 election although he could've been here longer. I've often said he's actually a computer algorithm run by aliens who understand the language but don't understand human nuance.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (oFCZn)

165

with the carbide drill bit, can I use a regular power drill with those?

 

Yes. A hammer drill would work better though.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (puNd6)

166 Which reminds me, is there such a thing a grout sealant? Oh yes. A lot of the new grout products have it mixed in, as a matter of fact, but you can also seal grout afterwards. Be sure to clean it first, of course...

Posted by: Grey Fox at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (9eflt)

167 Um... but you have to pause for a moment and consider why. Careful. Something's not right here. Look. I've had jobs where I worked 18 hours a day 6 months in a row with no break. Car. House. Clean. Why? Order, that's why. I'm ADD/OCD somewhat, but still... a trashcan car? Bad juju. *** I'm OCD and my car is often a mess BECAUSE of the OCD. I find it difficult to start a task unless I can do it to the umpteenth degree, so I put it off until I can.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (DmNpO)

168 We have commercial grade tile that looks like wood planks in the halls and the living room with some stone tile in the living room. When the grumpy grandma first floated the idea I didn't think I'd like it but a friend had it installed in her house and it looked really good, so I went along with it. Best thing I ever did. The house is cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. And its a lot cleaner after we mop than it was when we vacuumed the carpet.

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 01:28 PM (60Vyp)

169 Peaches, how ya doin?

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 01:29 PM (puNd6)

170 Also does a great job of harboring mold. Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 05:25 PM (x3YFz) How's that now?!

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:29 PM (HDwDg)

171 155 Peaches!...i'm so bummed, the ruger lc9 isn't on the doj list of approved handguns. and i simply can't find anything comparable to my liking. (sad) Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:25 PM (9klqA) I'm assuming I missed something. DOJ approved?

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:29 PM (GEICT)

172 150 No, he's the most dapper guy I know, always looks amazing, does custom cabinetry and furniture for a living, lovely home. Just the car and probably due to the darlin' girl. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:18 PM (8lmkt) Upon further review. he's a serial killer. Avoid him at all cost.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:29 PM (x3YFz)

173 168>> Stone tile in the kitchen.

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 01:30 PM (60Vyp)

174 Here's what the wood look tile looks like: http://tinypic.com/r/p4180/8 *** That looks very nice.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:30 PM (DmNpO)

175 >>My house is about 30 y.o. Many things are showing age. Our 30 y o house is settling, to put it delicately. I'm told the river (Red) used to run over here and there is clay underneath the dirt. Couple summers ago it was really really super hot and dry. That Fall, I kept seeing the "foundation repair" guys all over the neighborhood. We've had only minor issues. So far. I live in fear.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 01:30 PM (SUKHu)

176 Um... but you have to pause for a moment and consider why. Careful. Something's not right here.

Look. I've had jobs where I worked 18 hours a day 6 months in a row with no break. Car. House. Clean. Why? Order, that's why.

I'm ADD/OCD somewhat, but still... a trashcan car? Bad juju.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 05:23 PM (x3YFz)


It's not their only vehicle, and I also have to consider that I am a super cleanfreak but lately I'm sure my fuckin' patio would qualify as a superfund cleanup site.  The worse it gets, the less I want to tackle it.  I just close the sliders and pretend it isn't there.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:31 PM (8lmkt)

177 That's exactly what I was talking about Lauren. Great stuff.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:31 PM (GEICT)

178 Play Anything station is kicking out Huey Lewis now. Knew this one from the first note. I am Happy to Be Stuck With You.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:31 PM (ZshNr)

179 And its a lot cleaner after we mop than it was when we vacuumed the carpet. *** I couldn't believe the difference in the way my air filter looked after removing the carpet.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:31 PM (DmNpO)

180

142 Wheatie - Do not assume that tile will be maintainance-free. Dirt in the grout, cracking of tile/grout. Anything dropped on it will break.

 

My biggest dislike is that it is relatively 'cold' in bare feet as well as in presence.

 

Contemporary finishes are pretty tough. Take a look at a restaurant table that has a clear urethane finish. They take a real beating, and yet, retain their finish.

 

------------

 

Yep, Mike...this is what mr. wheatie says.

And those are good points, too.

 

If you want to talk 'comfort', then there is really no disputing the comfort and coziness of carpeting.

 

You can pick out carpet...move the furniture out...and have new carpet put in in one day.

But then you have to shampoo it.

 

Whereas, tile, if it is done right...takes a week or so. 

 

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:32 PM (2CHxD)

181 Yes, but if I were to ever put down tile in a home I owned, I'd pay someone to do it. No kidding. I was thinking something like polyurethane might do it. When we first moved into Casa Backwardio, I spent most of my time cleaning everything. I looked at the sparkling tile and said to myself, "Self, if there ever was a time to seal that grout, it's now." Alcohol won.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:32 PM (0HooB)

182 - another "Thank God for hardwood floors" here. - T9, I wouldn't bet against you, the Fibonacci sequence is everywhere .... let us know how that goes. - you don't spring clean the barrel, just burn it.

Posted by: sock_rat_eez at March 22, 2014 01:33 PM (gUoN4)

183 It's not their only vehicle, and I also have to consider that I am a super cleanfreak but lately I'm sure my fuckin' patio would qualify as a superfund cleanup site. The worse it gets, the less I want to tackle it. I just close the sliders and pretend it isn't there. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:31 PM (8lmkt) Fire hose. Hydrant. Some assembly required.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 01:33 PM (oFCZn)

184 Huey Lewis now. Knew this one from the first note. I am Happy to Be Stuck With You. Huey doesn't appreciate you singing that one in the boat while he's fishing. His drummer, however, couldn't get enough of it.

Posted by: garrett at March 22, 2014 01:33 PM (jgouf)

185 I'm OCD and my car is often a mess BECAUSE of the OCD. I find it difficult to start a task unless I can do it to the umpteenth degree, so I put it off until I can. Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 05:28 PM (DmNpO) heh... wife bitches about stuff in the car so I'm OCD about not being nagged at and therefore keep the car(s) spotless. She wins, but there's no downside to it so I'm fine with the outcome.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:33 PM (x3YFz)

186 Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 05:30 PM (SUKHu) Our "new to us" house turns 50 next year (we're thinking of celebrating it's birthday ) In any case, after that long, the settling is starting to show. But more importantly, that flooding in the side yard we're trying to get rid of reopened a crack in the side foundation. Hair line cracks along the back wall the building inspector said is "only a problem if you don't keep the water away from the house." We mulched 3 feet out from the house (I posted pics a while back) until we can afford to extend the patio. So far, things are OK and nothing looks to be getting worse (granted I'm not sure I'd be able to tell until it was in need of obvious repair.) So yeah, I know the feeling

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:33 PM (HDwDg)

187 Alcohol won. *** It's been the downfall of many DIY projects.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (DmNpO)

188 I did my kitchen floor with huge tiles left over from a concrete job at Forever 21. Yes, my kitchen floor has disco ball sparkles in it. They're huge in a small kitchen, Probably only eight intact tiles.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (ZshNr)

189 Here's the thing about the car.  It's El Lay, there's a car washing place on every corner.  20 bucks and it's perfect.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (8lmkt)

190 "with the carbide drill bit, can I use a regular power drill with those?"

I've used regular power drills with masonry bits on concrete before. But a hammer drill gives a just absolutely amazing leap in drilling productivity.

With a regular drill you'll take several minutes per completed hole. Hammer drill is done in fifteen seconds.

First time I used one, I said, "Where has this tool been all my life?"

Posted by: torquewrench at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (noWW6)

191 We just finished insulating the garage (want a pool table in there), next step is to stain and seal the floor. That on top of all the other spring stuff should keep us busy till summer!

Posted by: FCF at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (Khja4)

192 We picked up 8 glass windows and a glass door that had been a sunroom. It's pretty nice stuff. We have a roofed porch and are planning to glass that in. The plan is to move the macaws out into the new addition. It frees up a nice room in the house and gets me away from bird dander. As for cleaning, I picked up some pearls and I do find they improve the house cleaning experience. I can't wear heels though.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at March 22, 2014 01:34 PM (Lqy/e)

193

159 Here's what the wood look tile looks like:

 

http://tinypic.com/r/p4180/8

 

-----------

 

Wow, that looks great. ...Thanks, Lauren.

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:35 PM (2CHxD)

194

 Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 05:30 PM (SUKHu)

 

Clay is very unforgiving to build on.  Always moving around. Foundations and flatwork always cracking.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 01:35 PM (puNd6)

195 Wheatie - Do not assume that tile will be maintainance-free. Dirt in the grout, cracking of tile/grout. Anything dropped on it will break. Tile laid on anything but concrete will have issues with the grout cracking, because wood moves with the change in seasons and tile and concrete don't. However, there is a is a really cool new-ish product called Ditra made by Schluter that largely does away with that problem. It is laid underneath the tile and produces a kind of "floating floor" that will not crack as the wood beneath it moves. Disclaimer: My company kind of specializes in using Ditra. There are also new kinds of grout and grout additives that might help keep dirt out, though how much I can't say for sure - I just put the stuff in, I don't clean it.

Posted by: Grey Fox at March 22, 2014 01:35 PM (9eflt)

196 First time I used one, I said, "Where has this tool been all my life?" I feel the same way about my Fuck-Saw.

Posted by: Sandra Fluke at March 22, 2014 01:35 PM (jgouf)

197 I couldn't believe the difference in the way my air filter looked after removing the carpet. Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 05:31 PM (DmNpO) For Christmas my F-I-L got us one of those little battery powered vacuum/sweeper things. We've been using it on all the hardwood and it's kept our dust down something fierce. I like it. Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit at March 22, 2014 05:32 PM (0HooB) I noticed our grout was getting darker in the bathrooms, I found some sealer in the basement from when the house was renovated (they left all the extra material here). I figure the grout never got sealed but decided "eh, new color"

Posted by: tsrblke, PhD(c) (No Really!) at March 22, 2014 01:36 PM (HDwDg)

198

Posted by: Timon at March 22, 2014 05:26 PM (kAniV)

__________________

I used to see Mike Rowe in Annapolis all the time about 20 years ago.  He liked to hang with the sailors down by the Annapolis Harbor.  Great guy.  Humble, not pretentious at all.

Posted by: Truck Monkey, Gruntled New Business Owner at March 22, 2014 01:37 PM (jucos)

199 Lauren, the tile we have is Interceramic Timberlands in the nature valley color scheme. I would highly recommend it. I've dragged furniture across it and banged power tools on it during remodeling and haven't chipped it.

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 01:38 PM (60Vyp)

200 First time I used one, I said, "Where has this tool been all my life?" Posted by: torquewrench at March 22, 2014 05:34 PM (noWW6) Oh I'm so taking those notes. Hammer Drill. Next up.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:39 PM (x3YFz)

201 I didn't seal the grout in my kitchen because it has a few wonky spots and I figured I'd have to dig much of it out one day to do it right. Been a few years now...

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:39 PM (ZshNr)

202 Regarding the Porter Cable power tool set ..be better off with a lithium-ion than the Nic-Cad.

...and get one with an impact driver. I find it indispensable any more.

Regarding using the expanding drop-in concrete anchors, a hammer drill is a must. First drill a smaller pilot hole, then the larger 1/2"...and make sure you vacuum out the dust. The impact driver will make it much easier than a regular cordless getting the bolts in


Posted by: Albie Damned at March 22, 2014 01:39 PM (cGaCp)

203 One thing nobody's mentioned and perhaps they are passe now, but stained concrete floors can be gorgeous.  And very, very low maintenance as long as your house doesn't shift and it cracks, which looks kinda crappy.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:39 PM (8lmkt)

204 You're welcome, wheatie! As for things that stop you from finishing projects.... Right now my issue is less alcohol, and more that my baby is asleep on my shoulder and has me completely pinned down in my bed.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:40 PM (hFL/3)

205 Right now my issue is less alcohol, and more that my baby is asleep on my shoulder and has me completely pinned down in my bed.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 05:40 PM (hFL/3)


Aaaawwwwww . . . twinge of envy.  How sweet!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:41 PM (8lmkt)

206 Have any of you Morons ever glued a wood frame to a mirror? In bathrooms. Husband has made some gorgeous frames and is fixing to glue them on. In the event of disaster, please offer what you know and/or if you know.

We have updated our bathrooms inexpensively, an ongoing project as he is pretty busy, so it has not been as fast as it could have been. We painted existing cabinets, which are mostly wood from when we built and were "pickled Aspen" or something. From a hardware store I will freely advertise, Van Dykes, I found some appliques, all French-like, and he painted and glued them onto cabinets (paint matches trim). We tried to just refinish existing cultured marble counters, which resulted, last spring, in total disaster. So, Home Depot Silestone or whatever.

Anyway! In design magazines I had seen ads of framing existing gigantic mirrors above sink and counters. Pretty dang expensive, and, apparently lightweight as they have "strips" that stick to mirrors. wut? We found, for one extra bath, inexpensive chair rail at Loew's. I have gotten pretty fancy with hardware from Van Dyke's, and this chair rail goes with my mad design. Meanwhile! For master bath we paid more for solid wood chair rail (on sale) from Van Dykes to go with those cabinets and fancy-pants appliques. I must say, it is going to look fabulous. Unless you hate it! We found a pretty overhead light for master bath from Loew's and it is going to look like an entirely new room, thanks to my brilliant ideas (husband even admits I did good!).

Anyway, he has cut, glued and framed the first mirror frame and, heaven help us...as on top of this I am in a sewing rampage before my mother comes and finds that her daughter, uh, made promises of suits and all she is getting is wadded up fabric. xoxo

Posted by: ChristyBlinky, Bossy Redneck Queen at March 22, 2014 01:41 PM (baL2B)

207 I'm pretty sure that MH370 could be behind our refrigerator..., or behind the washing machine, or dryer.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:41 PM (aDwsi)

208 My hammer drill has all of about 30 minutes on it. Bought it kinda by mistake in my yoot and never had a reason to use it much. Now, my variable speed drills are another story altogether.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:41 PM (0HooB)

209 I love stamped, tinted concrete floors. Better off with new construction than retrofitting by a long shot, though.

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:42 PM (ZshNr)

210 203 One thing nobody's mentioned and perhaps they are passe now, but stained concrete floors can be gorgeous. And very, very low maintenance as long as your house doesn't shift and it cracks, which looks kinda crappy. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:39 PM (8lmkt) They can look very nice, but I always thought they were too industrial looking for residential. That's just my personal tastes though.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:42 PM (GEICT)

211 thanks fellow gunners...i was pretty set on the LC-9, the style and what it had to offer, the look. this is such a great thread, actually had just finished chores and found it...i'll check for tomorrow to discuss more, hopefully in the gun thread.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 01:42 PM (9klqA)

212 203 One thing nobody's mentioned and perhaps they are passe now, but stained concrete floors can be gorgeous. And very, very low maintenance as long as your house doesn't shift and it cracks, which looks kinda crappy. Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:39 PM (8lmkt) That garage in the link I posted? (#13) Obsidian black floors. Holy freaking coolness.

Posted by: tangonine at March 22, 2014 01:42 PM (x3YFz)

213 She is a munchkin, peaches. Much better than cleaning out a closet. This doesn't bode well for my closet cleaning plans.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (hFL/3)

214 >>203 One thing nobody's mentioned and perhaps they are passe now, but stained concrete floors can be gorgeous. And very, very low maintenance as long as your house doesn't shift and it cracks, which looks kinda crappy.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 05:39 PM (8lmkt)<<


Thinking about doing this in my currently unfinished basement and just using area rugs. The sump pump went out once and my thinking is that I can avoid a real mess on any potentially flooded carpeted room

Posted by: Albie Damned at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (cGaCp)

215 Right now my issue is less alcohol, and more that my baby is asleep on my shoulder and has me completely pinned down in my bed. -------------------- A pretty fine problem to have. Savor the moment.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (aDwsi)

216 I wear my sunglasses at night...

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (ZshNr)

217 I have been on a mission to locate my lost corkscrew for some time now. Finally, a few nights ago, I caved and looked for solutions on Bing. This is what I settled on. It worked! http://t.co/FjmB8sKQof

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (DmNpO)

218 >>Clay is very unforgiving to build on. Always moving around. Foundations and flatwork always cracking. Sigh. The only real problem we have so far (well, besides the cracks in the driveway) is that the granite counter in the kitchen has a small strip (like an inch wide) behind the stove. It's cracked and is trying to fall behind the stove.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 01:43 PM (SUKHu)

219 She is a munchkin, peaches.

Much better than cleaning out a closet. This doesn't bode well for my closet cleaning plans.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 05:43 PM (hFL/3)


Ah, you can clean closets any time, Lauren.  Right now, you can lay around sniffing the munchkin's head.  Is there anything on earth that smells better than a baby's head?  I think not.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:44 PM (8lmkt)

220 thanks fellow gunners...i was pretty set on the LC-9, the style and what it had to offer, the look. Again, I obv missed something. Why no LC-9?

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:45 PM (GEICT)

221 If you need a hammer drill and don't expect to use it much, you can always get on at  China Harbor (Harbor Frieght).  It might last long enough to get the job done.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 01:45 PM (puNd6)

222 I have so much spring crap to do to my house that I am paralysed into inaction by the very thought of it. 

Posted by: Truck Monkey, Gruntled New Business Owner at March 22, 2014 01:46 PM (jucos)

223

195...Tile laid on anything but concrete will have issues with the grout cracking, because wood moves with the change in seasons and tile and concrete don't.

 

Posted by: Grey Fox

 

---------

 

Yeah...our entire house is on a concrete slab.

Which is why I think that tile is the way to go...if we're going to go with hard-surface floors.

 

And then...area rugs!

Wood floors are gonna be just as cold in the winter as tile, when you're sitting on a concrete slab.

 

I've seen what area rugs do to hardwood floors over time.

And it's not pretty.

 

 

 

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 01:46 PM (2CHxD)

224 concrete girl, I am also consumed with curiosity about why you need a DoJ approved weapon.  of course, if you are not sanctioned to share the info, that is totally understandable.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 01:46 PM (8lmkt)

225 I have been on a mission to locate my lost corkscrew for some time now. Finally, a few nights ago, I caved and looked for solutions on Bing. This is what I settled on. It worked! http://t.co/FjmB8sKQof Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 05:43 PM (DmNpO) *Applauds* *Stores idea away in brain*

Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 01:46 PM (8pqpP)

226 gardening thread up

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 01:47 PM (DmNpO)

227 The first step, as I like, is to find a day when it is warm enough to shut the furnace down and open the windows.  Fresh, clean air is good and makes all seem better.

Second step, for any room is to start from the top and work down because all dirt falls.

Third step, in order that discouragement does not appear, keep the task in stages so that completion of a stage is a moment of triumph, not another step on a longer journey.

Fourth step, take a break between each room.  Have a beer, say, and look over the latest victory.  Use that to spur you onward.

Forward and ever onwards, my comrades!

Posted by: Mikey NTH - Perfidy and Accusations at the Outrage Outlet! at March 22, 2014 01:48 PM (gmoEG)

228 Is there anything on earth that smells better than a baby's head? Women are weird.

Posted by: garrett at March 22, 2014 01:48 PM (jgouf)

229 Oh I'm so taking those notes. Hammer Drill. Next up. Posted by: tangonine ----------------------- If you ever have to drill tile, a set of these is worth the expense: http://www.sciplus.com/p/DIAMOND-ENCRUSTED-BOXED-HOLE-SAWS_43490 They can be purchased onsie-twosie, but a set assures that you will have what you need.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:48 PM (aDwsi)

230 Yeah...our entire house is on a concrete slab. Which is why I think that tile is the way to go...if we're going to go with hard-surface floors. I assume that you are talking about laying the tile directly on the concrete?

Posted by: Grey Fox at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (9eflt)

231 "Is there anything on earth that smells better than a baby's head?" Well, now that you mention it....

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (60Vyp)

232 Women are weird. Posted by: garrett at March 22, 2014 05:48 PM (jgouf) You should take a peek at the gardening thread.

Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (8pqpP)

233 222 I have so much spring crap to do to my house that I am paralysed into inaction by the very thought of it. Posted by: Truck Monkey, Gruntled New Business Owner at March 22, 2014 05:46 PM (jucos) ^^This. Cleaning is simply not my strong suit, and the worse things get the less I want to do it.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (sdi6R)

234 ...I'm assuming I missed something. DOJ approved?... bcochran1981...my state has a doj list of approved handguns, and the lc9 isn't on it.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (9klqA)

235 Having a dog and cat must triple the lint/hair/dust load. There is hair/dander on every surface in the house within a day of dusting/vacuuming.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:50 PM (aDwsi)

236 "Women are weird." I'm pretty sure they did a study recently that said that the smell of baby hair lights up the same happy areas in women's brains as heroin does. I believe it.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:51 PM (hFL/3)

237 233 222 I have so much spring crap to do to my house that I am paralysed into inaction by the very thought of it. Posted by: Truck Monkey, Gruntled New Business Owner at March 22, 2014 05:46 PM (jucos) ^^This. Cleaning is simply not my strong suit, and the worse things get the less I want to do it. Posted by: rickl ----------------------------- Yup. The worse it gets, the less the inclination. Sure motivator: The In-Laws coming to visit.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:52 PM (aDwsi)

238 235 Having a dog and cat must triple the lint/hair/dust load. There is hair/dander on every surface in the house within a day of dusting/vacuuming. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 05:50 PM (aDwsi) I figure the cat hair helps reduce wear and tear on the carpet.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:53 PM (sdi6R)

239 That is one good lookin' fix it guy there. I've got a couple of Dirty Jobs for him......if he can handle the workload.

Posted by: vivi at March 22, 2014 01:53 PM (+/8mE)

240 Sleeping with your baby (or your grandchild) skin to skin on your chest is thermos serene sleep you will ever have, bar none.

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 01:54 PM (60Vyp)

241 I figure the cat hair helps reduce wear and tear on the carpet. Posted by: rickl --------------- That's why I never wash my truck. I think of it as a protective coating of grime.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:54 PM (aDwsi)

242 bcochran1981...my state has a doj list of approved handguns, and the lc9 isn't on it. Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:50 PM (9klqA) *jaw drop* UmmmÂ…if you don't mind me asking, what state do you live in? And any idea why it's not on the list?

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 01:54 PM (GEICT)

243 And any idea why it's not on the list? Posted by: BCochran1981 ------------------ Probably the safety.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:55 PM (aDwsi)

244 237 Yup. The worse it gets, the less the inclination. Sure motivator: The In-Laws coming to visit. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 05:52 PM (aDwsi) In my case, I'm cleaning because it's time for the spring air conditioner inspection. That's right: I'm cleaning for the HVAC guy. How pathetic is that?

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 01:55 PM (sdi6R)

245 I figure the grout never got sealed but decided "eh, new color" Yeah, *now* they decide to start making grout in darker colors. A nice brown would've looked good with the tile here. I figure in another 15 years, this grout'll be about the right shade...

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 01:56 PM (0HooB)

246 Sleeping with your baby (or your grandchild) skin to skin on your chest is thermos serene sleep you will ever have, bar none. Any kid will do, as long as it's skin on skin.

Posted by: Zombie Michael Jackson at March 22, 2014 01:57 PM (jgouf)

247 That's right: I'm cleaning for the HVAC guy. How pathetic is that? Posted by: rickl ------------------------- Yeah. The reason we haven't bought a new mattress is that the bedroom carpet needs scrubbing before we can have the mattress guys in without being embarrassed. Dog traffic.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:58 PM (aDwsi)

248 same as my friend Peaches.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 01:59 PM (9klqA)

249 The baby woke up and is now looking around the room in confusion. And...she's back down. On my chest this time.

Posted by: Lauren at March 22, 2014 01:59 PM (hFL/3)

250 rickl - Take heart..., they have likely seen *much* worse.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 01:59 PM (aDwsi)

251 248 same as my friend Peaches.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:59 PM (9klqA)

Oh, really!  So, I can't have one either?  Stupid communist state!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 02:00 PM (8lmkt)

252 248 same as my friend Peaches. Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 05:59 PM (9klqA) I just saw on Ruger's site that it's not approved for CA or MA. That's just crazy to me. And I'm not even going to tell you what I just bought an hour ago.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 02:00 PM (GEICT)

253 I figure in another 15 years, this grout'll be about the right shade... ------------------- Something that matches cooking grease and grime, ground in for 20 years.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:00 PM (aDwsi)

254 That's right: I'm cleaning for the HVAC guy. How pathetic is that? Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 05:55 PM (sdi6R) Worse: Cleaning up for the professional organizer.

Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 02:01 PM (8pqpP)

255 That's why I never wash my truck. I think of it as a protective coating of grime. The dirt is the only thing holding the body panels together on mine. 23 years old, 237K miles. If that truck could talk, I'd be in jail right now.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:02 PM (0HooB)

256

230...I assume that you are talking about laying the tile directly on the concrete?

 

Posted by: Grey Fox

 

----------

 

Well yeah...after it's stripped of carpet glue.

And you have to put a layer of that tile-glue stuff down first, don't you?

 

Posted by: wheatie at March 22, 2014 02:02 PM (De5Op)

257 Worse: Cleaning up for the professional organizer. Posted by: Vendette ------------------- Heh. Cleaning up for a cleaning lady.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:02 PM (aDwsi)

258 "And I'm not even going to tell you what I just bought an hour ago." Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk Big tease...

Posted by: CrotchetyOldJarhead at March 22, 2014 02:03 PM (60Vyp)

259 Truck lie.

Posted by: Chief Backwards at March 22, 2014 02:04 PM (aDwsi)

260 Nood.

Posted by: Y-not at March 22, 2014 02:05 PM (zDsvJ)

261 Heh. Cleaning up for a cleaning lady. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:02 PM (aDwsi) My Mom made us do that for the short time we had a cleaning lady stop in once a week. Didn't last long. The cleaning lady let the house cat out. She was gone after that.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:05 PM (oFCZn)

262 Another thing that will be a must every spring in our household is cleaning the dryer vent.

A couple of years back, a neighbors house burned down due to the lint in the vent piping being ignited.

Anyway, our dryer wasn't working well and was very noisy. It would take 2 or three cycles to dry anything. I suspected it might be because the vent piping was clogged. Our venting runs underneath the flooring from the utility/mudroom in the front of the house to the outlet in the back...about 20'.

I went out and bought a Linteater dryer vent cleaner kit and the necessary extra 12' extender kit. These have a 4" brush on the end and the other end gets stuck into the chuck of a cordless drill to power the rotation of the brush.

I swear I pulled out enough lint to fill a couple of large bed pillows. And, it's amazing how efficiently and quietly the dryer is working again.

No doubt it will help on the gas bill too

Posted by: Albie Damned at March 22, 2014 02:05 PM (cGaCp)

263 250 rickl - Take heart..., they have likely seen *much* worse. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 05:59 PM (aDwsi) I sure hope so. Well, I may have a lot of dust, dirt, and grime, but at least I don't have any critter infestations.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:06 PM (sdi6R)

264 Didn't last long. The cleaning lady let the house cat out. She was gone after that. Posted by: Dack Thrombosis ------------------ We tried a service while we were both working. They did a mediocre job.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:06 PM (aDwsi)

265 257 Heh. Cleaning up for a cleaning lady. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:02 PM (aDwsi) I would seriously have to do that. No kidding.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:07 PM (sdi6R)

266 srsly, you guys, go check the link that Dr. Mabuse posted at #7 on the gardening thread.  weirdest thing i've ever seen.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 02:07 PM (8lmkt)

267 My current theory is to take *one* room, one day a week. By the time we've worked it through, it's time to start over..., past time, really.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:08 PM (aDwsi)

268 Our dryer vent runs up to the roof. We cleaned it a couple times, but I just had it done professionally and had the guy replace the tubing with metal tubing in the attic.

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 02:09 PM (SUKHu)

269 259 Truck lie. Posted by: Chief Backwards at March 22, 2014 06:04 PM (aDwsi) I've never hauled sheep in that truck. Honest.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:09 PM (0HooB)

270 yes...truly, truly sad...i oh so wanted it!...wanted to round out my collection.

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 02:09 PM (9klqA)

271 No sawzall/recip on the list? WTF.

Posted by: RWC at March 22, 2014 02:09 PM (QeH9j)

272 I would seriously have to do that. No kidding. Posted by: rickl -------------- I wasn't making a joke. Speaking from experience.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:09 PM (aDwsi)

273 No sawzall/recip on the list? WTF. Posted by: RWC ------------- No good substitute when working in tight spaces. Also, just handy.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:11 PM (aDwsi)

274 Well yeah...after it's stripped of carpet glue. And you have to put a layer of that tile-glue stuff down first, don't you? Yep. "Thin-set" mortar, to be precise.

Posted by: Grey Fox at March 22, 2014 02:12 PM (9eflt)

275 Backwords - Tell it to the goats.

Posted by: The Sheep at March 22, 2014 02:12 PM (aDwsi)

276 So, going back to my plumbing issue in #157, a question: When a plumber is called to fix a leaky faucet, do they just do the side that's leaking, or do they replace washers on both sides? In my case, I know the hot water was leaking. I don't *think* the cold water is, although I guess I won't know for sure until I get the hot water valve put back together.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:12 PM (sdi6R)

277 In my case, I know the hot water was leaking. I don't *think* the cold water is, although I guess I won't know for sure until I get the hot water valve put back together. Posted by: rickl ---------------- It may not be a 'washer'. There are many configurations of faucet assemblies. If t'were me, and I was paying someone, I would have them do both while they are there.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:15 PM (aDwsi)

278 List of tools is kinda crap. Worm drive circular saw? Bucket sleeve? 35' tape? As much stuff as I do and I've never missed having any of that mess. Stuff like all the various toolboxes is purely preference. They missed out on some pretty fundamental stuff though. Clamps (duh)? Wunder Bar (or equivalent, duh)? Duct tape they mentioned in the negative but didn't say you should have any. You should have some. Something with which to organize your screws and nails and bolts, etc. If you do a lot of projects you'll have oodles. Drill press? Router? Corded drill? Hammer drill? Giant egg-beater for mixing up thinset or whatever? Pencil sharpener and pencils? Permanent marker? Saw horses? Shop vac? Air compressor and various nail guns? Mallet? Ladder? Stepping stool? 4' T square? Triangular square? Metal straight edge? Tin snips? Fish tape? Allen wrenches? Pipe wrenches? Extension cords? Cold chisel? Sledge? Plumb line? Task light? Hack saw? Jigsaw? Vice? Vice grips? I'm intentionally leaving out more specialized stuff for laying tile or carpet, or hanging drywall, stuff that you'll find yourself doing over and over again if you're really doing fix-er-uppers. All of these things come further up the list than a good few of what they mentioned. I'm sure I barely scratched the surface. Man's gotta be able to fix and build stuff.

Posted by: Immolate at March 22, 2014 02:15 PM (AaHJC)

279 No good substitute when working in tight spaces. Also, just handy. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:11 PM (aDwsi) Must have for demo work.. and fixing mistakes. What'd you get BC?

Posted by: RWC at March 22, 2014 02:15 PM (QeH9j)

280 When a plumber is called to fix a leaky faucet, do they just do the side that's leaking, or do they replace washers on both sides?

A good plumber will replace both.  A crafty plumber will only replace what you asked him to and then wait for the call-back.

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 02:16 PM (8lmkt)

281 267 My current theory is to take *one* room, one day a week. By the time we've worked it through, it's time to start over..., past time, really. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:08 PM (aDwsi) That's probably the best way to tackle it.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:16 PM (oFCZn)

282 So, going back to my plumbing issue in #157, a question: When a plumber is called to fix a leaky faucet, do they just do the side that's leaking, or do they replace washers on both sides? A reputable plumber would do both sides since they tend to get used about the same. A disreputable plumber will only fix one side because disreputable. Two service calls. But Syrias, you guys, washers are really simple to replace. I have a big bag full of different sized washers, but now, no faucets to repair that use them: mine are all center, one lever jobs. I've saved a small fortune over the years doing simple stuff like that.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:18 PM (0HooB)

283 What'd you get BC? Posted by: RWC at March 22, 2014 06:15 PM (QeH9j) The same thing that Peaches and concrete girl can't. With the LaserMax Laser attached.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 02:18 PM (GEICT)

284 is bcochran1981 waiting for everybody to ask? i'm asking!

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 02:19 PM (9klqA)

285 c'mon, Cochran, spill it!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 02:20 PM (8lmkt)

286 I wonder if you could use a vacuum cleaner to suction out a dryer vent? Okay a search shows people doing it but I wonder about the length of the tube. A vacuum cleaner might not have the power to move a lot of built up lint.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:20 PM (oFCZn)

287 Also, you have to move the dryer and disconnect the vent tube. Could be a problem.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:20 PM (oFCZn)

288 oh, sweet, Cochran!!  congrats!

Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 02:20 PM (8lmkt)

289 But Syrias, you guys, washers are really simple to replace. I have a big bag full of different sized washers, but now, no faucets to repair that use them: mine are all center, one lever jobs. I've saved a small fortune over the years doing simple stuff like that. Posted by: BackwardsBoy ---------------- Riiiiight. Got any Crane or American Standard valve seats?

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:21 PM (aDwsi)

290 ...The same thing that Peaches and concrete girl can't. With the LaserMax Laser attached. well i'm happy for you, you lucky bum!.that's EXACTLY the one i wanted...cheers

Posted by: concrete girl at March 22, 2014 02:23 PM (9klqA)

291 288 oh, sweet, Cochran!! congrats! Posted by: Peaches at March 22, 2014 06:20 PM (8lmkt) Thanks. I'm a Concealed Carry holder, which means I can walk out same day with the purchase. Except everyone wants an astronomical amount for the gun. So I went to a local gun show today. No better. There's a small local gun shop that offers big markdowns, but only for internet orders. So I got a good deal, but now I gotta wait for it to be delivered to the store.

Posted by: BCochran1981 - Credible Hulk at March 22, 2014 02:23 PM (GEICT)

292 Speaking of cleaning house, nood.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:24 PM (aDwsi)

293 Also, you have to move the dryer and disconnect the vent tube. Could be a problem. As long as you're back there, with everything moved out of the way, you should replace both of the water lines to the washing machine. I do that every five years or so, since I had one fail, ruining a lot of carpet and disrupting the house for a week or so.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:24 PM (0HooB)

294 I have a tool that is supposed to repair valve seats.  Never used it.  Most modern valves don't have a washer.  That's a good thing.  My Kohler valves are 30 y.o. and still don't leak.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 02:25 PM (puNd6)

295 As long as you're back there, with everything moved out of the way, you should replace both of the water lines to the washing machine. I do that every five years or so, since I had one fail, ruining a lot of carpet and disrupting the house for a week or so. Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit at March 22, 2014 06:24 PM (0HooB) Good idea. I was actually looking at them about a month ago. They look pretty solid but they've been in there for a long time.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:26 PM (oFCZn)

296 Good idea. I was actually looking at them about a month ago. They look pretty solid but they've been in there for a long time. Do it. Now. You'll be glad you did. Also, new washers for the lines. Do. Not. Scrimp. It's not like they're horribly expensive anyway. Homeownership is such a joy *rolls eyes*...

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:30 PM (0HooB)

297

I do that every five years or so, since I had one fail, ruining a lot of carpet and disrupting the house for a week or so.

 

When I built my house, I left out the linoleum underlayment in the laundry closet, which made for a 1 inch basin under the washer and dryer.  Then I plumbed a drain into the area.  Havent needed it so far, fingers crossed.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 02:30 PM (puNd6)

298 Homeownership is such a joy *rolls eyes*... Posted by: BackwardsBoy --------------- I hold my breath every time it rains..., or a toliet is flushed, or the HVAC comes on..., etc, etc.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:31 PM (aDwsi)

299 OK, you Bob Vilas you, it's time to grab another Guinness and turn on the race. Y'all have fun and try not to trash the place, 'k?

Posted by: BackwardsBoy, who did not vote for this shit [/i][/s][/b][/u] at March 22, 2014 02:33 PM (0HooB)

300 When I built my house, I left out the linoleum underlayment in the laundry closet, which made for a 1 inch basin under the washer and dryer. Then I plumbed a drain into the area. Havent needed it so far, fingers crossed. Posted by: Ronster --------- Very smart move. I had a stainless steel 'basin' (square, 2" high walls) built which the washer sits in. There is a moisture detector which sounds an alarm. Not the best solution, and it will only work if someone is home to hear it, but better than nothing.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:34 PM (aDwsi)

301 Now I'm worried about the dryer vent.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:34 PM (oFCZn)

302 Five Stars just on the concept alone!!!  Yes, this is just the kind of REGULAR RECURRING thread this moron horde needs.  That, and a first aide thread for when DIY goes tragically wrong.  DIY advanced medical procedures are not recommended....

Posted by: Jenk at March 22, 2014 02:34 PM (e2ysZ)

303 The  fan/light switch on our range burned up a couple days ago.  No longer available.  Guess where I found one?  A used one was available on ebay. I'm a lucky guy, won't have to buy a new range for the misses.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 02:35 PM (puNd6)

304 Now I'm worried about the dryer vent. Posted by: Dack ------------ Would you like more? Faulty breakers, aluminum wiring, soot in the chimney, foundation cracks, roof (OMG...., the freaking roof), chimney cracks..., etc, etc.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:37 PM (aDwsi)

305 Would you like more? Faulty breakers, aluminum wiring, soot in the chimney, foundation cracks, roof (OMG...., the freaking roof), chimney cracks..., etc, etc. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:37 PM (aDwsi) Heh. Roof was done a couple of years ago after a really bad windstorm. So at least that should be good.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:39 PM (oFCZn)

306 That, and a first aide thread for when DIY goes tragically wrong. DIY advanced medical procedures are not recommended.... Posted by: Jenk --------------- I think we touched on that yesterday. Sutures, Super Glue, butterfly bandages, Betadine, hydrogen peroxide, sucking chest wounds...

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 02:39 PM (aDwsi)

307 Would you like more? Faulty breakers, aluminum wiring, soot in the chimney, foundation cracks, roof (OMG...., the freaking roof), chimney cracks..., etc, etc. Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 06:37 PM (aDwsi) Ants! Rodents! (Speaking from bitter experience.)

Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 02:39 PM (8pqpP)

308 I avoid Al wiring unless it is outside underground. Also, for those with older homes that may have FPE breakers, I would recommend having them replaced.  They are trash.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 02:40 PM (puNd6)

309 Mold! Radon! EMF's! Giant Tortoise People!

Posted by: Lincolntf at March 22, 2014 02:41 PM (ZshNr)

310 Ants! Rodents! (Speaking from bitter experience.) Posted by: Vendette at March 22, 2014 06:39 PM (8pqpP) Getting time to put out the boric acid powder...

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:42 PM (oFCZn)

311 302 Jenk I agree! I'm a complete n00b when it comes to home repair. I used to putter around with my first car many years ago, but got gun shy after I ended up breaking stuff and making it worse a couple of times. Both times I ended up taking it to a mechanic. I ran into a snag with this faucet repair, but at least I didn't break a pipe trying to take it apart. I've had the tools collected in the bathroom for over a month, and finally worked up the courage to try it today.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:42 PM (sdi6R)

312 >>chimney cracks The guy who cleaned out the dryer vent and chimney found that the wood at the top of the chimney needs to be replaced. Which is why I need to call the carpenter, as mentioned way up there in re molding paint removal. The circle of home repair...

Posted by: Mama AJ at March 22, 2014 02:43 PM (SUKHu)

313 Egads I looked at images of plugged dryer vents and it's a litany of horrors. One of the images shows a burnt out dryer out in the drive way with fireman walking around it. Shit I better get on that post haste.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 02:45 PM (oFCZn)

314 Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet?   Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through. 

Posted by: PaleRider at March 22, 2014 02:50 PM (vL0Nv)

315 I had a belt replaced in my dryer 2-3 years ago, and they cleaned out the vent at that time. The dryer's been working fine, but I probably ought to take a look at it. What's that silvery tape they used called? I need to get some. It's not ordinary duct tape, although they did use it on a duct.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:50 PM (sdi6R)

316 might be aluminium tape steps are demolished yay me

Posted by: Bigby's Knuckle Sandwich at March 22, 2014 02:53 PM (KgN8K)

317 Car threat, oh gawd.... We threw a rocker... something a rocker... well, you all probably know what I mean... engine is just *gone*. Took it to the dealer as soon as we realized it had all gone to heck... after some tense moments realized that our extra super duper warranty we purchased was still in effect and would cover a new engine and a rental. THEN found out that because we were late on servicing it was all probably void. I will say this... synthetic oil should have been *just fine* and it was only ever so slightly low, not even extra low, and not anything like dry. So now we're waiting on the verdict if they're going to weasel out of the warranty... only owe $17K more on the car.

Posted by: Synova at March 22, 2014 02:56 PM (7/PU+)

318 314 Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet? Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through. Posted by: PaleRider at March 22, 2014 06:50 PM (vL0Nv) I used to live in an apartment in an old house. The washer and dryer were in the basement, and there was a real Rube Goldberg setup for the dryer vent. It was probably 15-20' long, and was suspended from the rafters with string. It kept filling up with water, and somebody poked a hole in the middle so it could drain into a bucket.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 02:57 PM (sdi6R)

319 314 Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet? Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through. Posted by: PaleRider at March 22, 2014 06:50 PM (vL0Nv) Mine isn't long. Runs through the floor and then right to the wall and outside. Still it's not a straight line I'm sure. The more kinks in it the more likely it is to pack up with crud. My only problem is there's no room to maneuver in there. It's a very small room so pulling out the dryer is going to make it tough to get back there.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 03:01 PM (oFCZn)

320 >> Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet? Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through.<<

Doesn't matter how long it is. The neighbor whose house went up in smoke had a vent about 3' long

Posted by: Albie Damned at March 22, 2014 03:06 PM (cGaCp)

321 Watching a video on youtube there's a trap on the back of the dryer that can fill up with fluff. You have to take the back of it off and remove a panel to get to it. *terror music*

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 03:06 PM (oFCZn)

322 I once lived an apartment building where the laundry rooms were situated against the inside-most wall of the house. I was young and poor and didn't even have a washer and dryer at the time. The duct was really long and, as I discovered one very noisy and chaotic morning, had no cover on the outside wall. I learned this because my cat dragged a full grown, live Blue Jay, through the duct and into my apartment. That was an interesting morning.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 03:16 PM (DmNpO)

323 Dirt.

Why bother cleaning it up?

It's just back again in a few days.

Just keep a path clear from bed to bath to fridge and front door, that'll do.

Maybe wipe a clean spot in the windows when they get hard to see out of.




Posted by: Bitter Clinger and All That (Waiting For SMODOT) at March 22, 2014 03:22 PM (i+yr+)

324 Good grief NDH! I think something similar happened to my parents when I was a wee tyke. For years Mom told a story about opening the dryer and finding snakes inside of it. Somehow they came up dryer vent and managed to get into the drum.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 03:25 PM (oFCZn)

325

 Niedermeyer's Dead Horse.

 

A few years ago I heard this sound that I  couldn't figure out.  Finally realized that something was in our wood stove.  Had to be a bird that came down the chimney.  I carefully opened the stove door to take a look. Out flew  a  damned Starling covered with soot, which continued to fly all  through the house depositing soot everywhere.  Wife not happy.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 03:29 PM (puNd6)

326 Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet? Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through. Posted by: PaleRider --------------- I have seen some condo/apartment dryer vent routing that you would not believe.

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 03:39 PM (aDwsi)

327 Starling covered with soot, which continued to fly all through the house depositing soot everywhere. --------------- Obligatory moron literary reference, "Eppie in de toal-hole!"

Posted by: Mike Hammer at March 22, 2014 03:44 PM (aDwsi)

328

Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet?

 

Mine probably runs about 20 feet.  Sometimes the layout of the  house just requires  a longer  distance.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 03:45 PM (puNd6)

329 323 Dirt. Why bother cleaning it up? It's just back again in a few days. Just keep a path clear from bed to bath to fridge and front door, that'll do. Maybe wipe a clean spot in the windows when they get hard to see out of. Posted by: Bitter Clinger and All That (Waiting For SMODOT) at March 22, 2014 07:22 PM (i+yr+) Were we twins that were separated at birth?

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 03:47 PM (sdi6R)

330

 

"Eppie in de toal-hole!"

Mike Hammer,  I'm sorry, but that one flew right over my head.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 03:48 PM (puNd6)

331 Wild animals in the house?  Full disclosure--I live in South Philly and mine is a very densely populated urban neighborhood.  A little too densely populated for my tastes, and hopefully that will be remedied soon.

Ennyhoo, in the spring I open the kitchen door in the back of the house so that the kittehs can play or sleep on the back deck and/or alley.  Last year I waited until the last moment to do my taxes; as I was doing them I noticed a very big, ugly "cat" at the food bowl; the rest of the cats were just looking at it from a distance.

That's because it wasn't a cat.  It was a raccoon.  It tried to go up the stairs to the bedroom but turned back; by that time I'd grabbed the garden shovel and looked it in the eye.  It then ran out of the open door....

Posted by: Jenk at March 22, 2014 03:50 PM (e2ysZ)

332 So I think I will rent the machine and clean the carpet pathways, one last try before I rip it up and go full hardwood.

Mama AJ, if the wood molding is not precious, why not rip it out and have a carpenter replace it with new  molding stained the way you like it. We're going to do that in the bathroom and kitchen because sanding down molding with three half rounds on it would be ridiculously expensive labor wise.

Posted by: PJ at March 22, 2014 03:54 PM (ZWaLo)

333 331 I live in South Philly and mine is a very densely populated urban neighborhood. A little too densely populated for my tastes, and hopefully that will be remedied soon. Posted by: Jenk at March 22, 2014 07:50 PM (e2ysZ) That's a little ambiguous. Are you planning on moving or exterminating your neighbors?

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 03:54 PM (sdi6R)

334 I think something similar happened to my parents when I was a wee tyke. For years Mom told a story about opening the dryer and finding snakes inside of it. Somehow they came up dryer vent and managed to get into the drum. *** We're now into nightmare territory. BTW, the blue jay wasn't the only thing the cat brought in. I would return from work and find my cat looking guilty and, after it happened a couple of times, I knew to immediately check my bed. He had variously deposited frogs, lizards and, once, a snake in my bed. It was only when he brought in the blue jay that we learned of how he was sneaking them past us.

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 03:55 PM (DmNpO)

335 A few years ago I heard this sound that I couldn't figure out. Finally realized that something was in our wood stove. Had to be a bird that came down the chimney. I carefully opened the stove door to take a look. Out flew a damned Starling covered with soot, which continued to fly all through the house depositing soot everywhere. Wife not happy. ** I hope it doesn't try that trick in the Winter!

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 03:55 PM (DmNpO)

336 Speaking of Racoons. When I was in my teens we had some dairy calves that needed feeding.  I always put things off until the  last minute, so I go to do the chores, no lights in the barn, reached into the grain barrel for some grain and a Racoon came blazing out.  Scared the crap out of me, but I'm still alive.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 03:57 PM (puNd6)

337 I hate possums. Just throwing that out there. My yard has come under the jurisdiction of a hawk in the last few years. Last year I found a rabbit with it's head pecked to bits and it's guts trailing outside of it's body in the yard. I started to clean up the mess and remembered the possum that takes a nightly jaunt through the yard in the summer. So I left the corpse out there and sure enough it was gone the next morning. But I still hate that ugly looking little fucker.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 04:03 PM (oFCZn)

338 Glitter Guide How-To Spring Cleaning in Just One Day I missed the step about snorting crystal meth.

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 04:08 PM (sdi6R)

339 >>That's a little ambiguous. Are you planning on moving or exterminating your neighbors? Potato potahto.

Posted by: Aviator at March 22, 2014 04:09 PM (3rrMW)

340 It would take me a month to spring clean my house. Even if we could afford to hire a cleaning service it would take that long to de-clutter the house enough for me to feel comfortable letting them in. Between my ten-hour-day "real" job and my "second" job as a geriatric healthcare provider, it's a miracle that the dishes and laundry get done with any reasonable consistency. I wish I could take a summer off to organize my life. Sighhhh. I fantasize about winning the Lotto. Or getting fired.

Posted by: Gem at March 22, 2014 04:09 PM (zw+pb)

341 Yeah, spring cleaning and repairing stuff sets off OCD because the work is so futile. Stuff gets dirty again and trees grow over the patio and paint chips. So I have just resolved myself to continually working at it and spending money on it.

I find the best way to clear up old jobs we've been avoiding is to schedule a party. Then you finally get the wallpaper up in the bathroom, etc. to avoid embarrassment.


Posted by: PJ at March 22, 2014 04:10 PM (ZWaLo)

342 338 Glitter Guide How-To Spring Cleaning in Just One Day I missed the step about snorting crystal meth. Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 08:08 PM (sdi6R) Nothing like cleaning the tile grout with a toothbrush at 4:00 in the morning!

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 04:11 PM (oFCZn)

343 I hope it doesn't try that trick in the Winter!

Posted by: Niedermeyer's Dead Horse at March 22, 2014 07:55 PM (DmNpO)

 

I claim totally not guilty if I light a fire and burn one to a crispy critter.  They don't belong here anyway.   One of those transplanted birds that got out of  control.

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 04:11 PM (puNd6)

344 Well, I almost finished cleaning the bathtub today. Progress!

Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 04:17 PM (sdi6R)

345 344 Well, I almost finished cleaning the bathtub today. Progress! Posted by: rickl at March 22, 2014 08:17 PM (sdi6R) Good job! When is it time to clean the bathtub/shower? When there's more hair in the tub or shower than you have on your head.

Posted by: Dack Thrombosis at March 22, 2014 04:28 PM (oFCZn)

346 Thanks for the thread; am currently spring cleaning. That list makes it not seem so overwhelming. I borrowed a Bissel carpet cleaner this week and did my downstairs carpets. Machine was great, navigates the carpet like a regular vacuum, not a zamboni. You do not want to know how dark the water was, kind of frightening. Winter has been slushy. I did three passes, second had a tiny bit of soap added. I have rented a cleaner in the past, with mixed results. Deep cleaned bathroom, am now working on decluttering and dejunking. There are things I could possibly take to the DI/Salvation Army, but I am tempted to just dump it all in the dumpster and be done with it. Have no clue who would want this stuff, and is pretty beat up.

Posted by: LizLem at March 22, 2014 04:40 PM (Rb9kQ)

347 I'm building an enormous deck by myself and I would like to pass along one tip that has made this possible: Pipe Clamps. I bought 8 sets of pip clamps and use them as my helper. They can hold the end of a board, pull something together, bend slightly warped boards into true and they allow me to clamp each section up and check that it is square, plumb and level before I bolt or screw it together permanently. It make building like a giant Lego set.

Posted by: toby928© at March 22, 2014 04:43 PM (QupBk)

348

 toby928© at March 22, 2014 08:43 PM (QupBk)

 

Having built my own house  and having worked for a real carpenter  before  my attempt, I have to say that  most people doing DIY  projects are too careful (there's a word for that) in their projects.  Not putting you  down.  There are so many short cuts that I learned.  By the  way, Iv'e forgot most of them.  My mentor  used to tell me your building a house, not  a watch.  I built my decks with a hammer, saw  and  experience.  Again, not putting you down.  The only thing I regret on my deck construction is using nails instead of  screws.  I used redwood.  Fake plastic is pobably better.  Wasn't  available at that time. 

Posted by: Ronster at March 22, 2014 05:03 PM (puNd6)

349  Re: Porter Cable Kit.  If it's out of budget Ryobi is an alternative for home use.

Posted by: CO at March 22, 2014 05:06 PM (VXbIB)

350 I'm sorry but all of that Spring cleaning shit does not fit at all with my Ace of Spades Lifestyle (TM). Deck building okay. Not sure how Toby is able to use pipe clamps to straighten decking. How do you grab the back of the previous board? Once it is down there is no space behind it. I use a BoWrench (which works off of the joists you are screwing down into). Pipe clamps are good for holding lots of other pieces together though.

Posted by: Alec Rawls at March 22, 2014 05:49 PM (kTTUz)

351 Wow, who runs a dryer vent more than a couple feet? Seriously I would pass on a house if the laundry room was not set up so the dryer vent had an immediate outside wall to vent through. Posted by: PaleRider --------------- I have seen some condo/apartment dryer vent routing that you would not believe. Erm... maybe dead thread, but I'll try anyway. I missed this part earlier. My dryer vent routing runs under the office the builder tacked onto the house at the last minute because this was the 90s and everyone was supposed to have one. Okay, so a fifteen foot vent... It sagged and cracked about three years after we moved in, so now once a year or so I replace it. It's in a crawlspace, not too difficult. New tube thingy, duct tape, got it. But... so far I've been re-taping to the remnant of the original tube, attached to a permanent metal vent in the wall of the laundry room...which is now completely inaccessible because of construction and other piping systems. That tube is degrading and when it is finally gone for good I have an absolutely no idea how I am going to get a new venting tube up there. I was thinking maybe I could plunge cut a hole in the drywall around that permanent metal vent in the laundry room wall and put that piece on hinges....? Then, when needed, pull open, screw on new venting tube thing, let it drop down to where I can get it from the crawlspace, run it under the office and to outside vent. Does this sound stupid? I'm just ascairt that I'm going to blow the house up by hitting the gas line somehow.

Posted by: Gem at March 22, 2014 07:35 PM (zw+pb)

352 I saw Settling Foundation open for Drywall Cracks. About 15 years ago.

Posted by: Fleam at March 23, 2014 10:20 AM (aDwsi)

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