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What type of scraper should I use to remove the peeling paint on my exterior wood siding?
If you have a lot of scraping to do, opt for a larger one with a carbide blade. While these cost more, they will last longer and do a better...
Is there a way I can test my exterior paint to see if it contains lead?
Yes. There are several do-it-yourself test kits that are approved by the EPA. Go to www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/kits.htm for a listing of test kits that...
Is there a good time to paint outside?
Always check the paint can for specific recommendations. But for general guidelines, you want the paint to dry evenly, so try to paint in the shade...
What spray tip is best to use with my pressure washer when cleaning exterior siding?
Choose a tip that won’t damage the siding. A 15-degree tip is a good...
Can I avoid scraping the peeling paint off the exterior of my home by using a pressure washer before painting?
It is not advisable. Pressure washers should only be used for removing dirt, mildew and algae that can lead to premature paint failure. Flaking...
What is the best type of gutter cover to install?
There are many different types that perform well, and others that don’t perform well at all. Eventually, debris will get into the gutter. So the...
What type of furnace filter should I buy?
Both the type of filter you choose, as well as how frequently you change it, depends on several factors, which include: if you have pets, if you...
Do all the sockets in my house need to be a GFI?
Only the first one in the series needs to be a GFI (ground fault...
What is lock bumping?
Lock bumping is a lock picking technique for opening a pin tumbler lock using a specially-crafted bump key. One bump key will work for all locks of...
What will I need to cut a hole for a doorknob?
You’ll need a hole saw sized for the door handle you are installing and a space bit to bore the hole for the dead latch. The most common size hole...
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