ericadunham.com
Archive for March, 2010
Fix and fill holes in concrete
Mar 31st
Holes and cracks in concrete only get worse if left alone, especially in colder climates with freeze/thaw cycles. As long as you’re patching a hole, it’s a good idea to clean and seal the concrete too. Clean one section at a time, do your repairs, then apply a water seal. Since concrete’s worst enemy is water, the water seal will help protect it against future damage. Stubborn areas may take a second cleaning. A dull, porous surface is a good indication that the concrete needs to be sealed. Let newly sealed concrete dry four hours before you walk on it and 24 hours More >
Prevent doors from binding
Mar 29th
There are several possible reasons why a door might bind. The screws may no longer hold the hinges securely, one or both hinges may be set in a mortise that’s too deep or too shallow, the door itself may have warped, or the jambs may go out of square as the house settles. The problem may even be humidity. Check the hinges first, since they’re the easiest component to adjust.
Deepen a Hinge Mortise A door may bind if its hinges are not set deeply enough in the jamb. Remove the door and its hinge leaves. Support the door on edge. Mark More >
winter-prepare your house for it
Mar 26th
Basic warm-ups Maximize the effect of passive solar heat in winter. Keep all the curtains and shades open during the day on the side of the house where the sun comes in. (This is all day on the south side, morning on the east and afternoon on the west.) The warmth from the sun warms the floor and furniture. After sundown, close all the shades and drapes. If you have the old type of storm windows that need to be installed each winter, it can get confusing figuring out which window goes where. To avoid this, use a screwdriver, a hammer and Roman More >
Ideas for Your Bookshelf..
Mar 25th
It’s easy to perk up the look of any room with a bookshelf makeover. Turn your bookshelf into a creative display that adds artistic style and transforms your furniture beyond functional. In addition to providing a home for your favorite literature and home decor, displaying family photos is a great way to personalize your bookshelf. Read on for more great bookshelf ideas.
1. Create a matching library set. Make covers for all of your books from craft paper or wrapping paper. Select one or two colors from around your room. All white book covers add a striking contrast to a dark More >
Grants improvements
Mar 24th
Buying a historic house is a great idea but sometimes this idea can get you into some trouble. For instance you will need money to perform all of the necessary home improvements that you want to do. Where you will be able to get the money that is required for the many home improvements that you will need? Your best option would be to see about getting home improvement grants.
These grants will let you remodel your new home to your hearts content – within reason of course. There are some conditions that you will probably need to agree on before More >