Vinyl window frames are more durable and show less wear than wooden frames, but they do not come in as many colors as you may want. Painting vinyl is no longer a hopeless dream, as a result of the range of primers and specially formulated paints now available. The key to painting plastic frames so…
The Department of Energy reports that air conditioning and heating are now the biggest energy consumers in American homes, together accounting for 54 percent of annual household energy expenses as of November 2012. The amount spent to cool and heat our homes is more than twice what it cost 25 decades back, with the biggest…
Adding evergreen plants to landscaping helps to keep a few color during winter and autumn months, however not all evergreens are alike. For an interesting appearance, use pom pom pines (Pinus sylvestris “Pom Pom”) on your natural areas. They grow well in full sunlight in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 8a…
Baking soda has many family uses, but eliminating scratches from wood furniture isn’t one of these. But you can effectively use baking soda to eliminate white circles and water marks from wood surfaces. Scratches call for one more remedy — concealing the scratch and buffing over it. Baking Soda for Water Marks White rings on…
While water and soap function as a simple and safe cleaner for granite, they may, over time, leave behind a scum or deposits. Dish soap utilized close to the sink may also bring about a thick buildup on a granite countertop. Remove either type of buildup by scraping it off or using a granite-safe soap-scum…
A countertop is meant to be a durable surface that provides invaluable workspace in the kitchen. But regardless of what material you select for a counter, it might have damaged over time, even when you’re careful around it. If your countertop develops a crack, then you don’t have to replace the whole surface. The perfect…
You may find one of two kinds of monkey grass aping each other in gardens — lily turf (Liriope spp.) and mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus). Although they share a frequent name, the sizes, shapes and growth habits of those grassy lily plant family members have different spacing requirements. Two Monkeys Lily turf and mondo grass…
Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) are one of the most common vegetables grown by home gardeners although they’re plagued by several insects and problems. Blossom-end rot is just one potential challenge, and it occurs with no warning, blemishing otherwise healthy tomato fruits. Epsom salt is an economical and widely available option, but its effectiveness has not been…
Palm trees help turn a normal terrace into a lush, green oasis. Potted palms may be used as an impressive centerpiece or as exotic embellishment. Based on light conditions, many palms are great choices for growing on the patio. Palms to Shady Patios Some patios get only indirect light throughout the afternoon or direct sunshine…
Distilled white vinegar is a strong acid that cleans nicely but can dull the finish. Use apple cider vinegar if you wish to use an disinfecting cleaner but also protect the floor’s finish. A breasted process that forms its cleaning ingredient, acid produced it. Apple cider vinegar has a brown muddy look brought on by…