When Paint Peels on the Inside of Windows

QUESTION: I have a chronic problem with cracking and peeling paint on the inside of windows and sills. How can I reduce the need to paint so frequently?

ANSWER: Many factors can contribute to paint failure on interior surfaces around windows. When windows are leaky, paint is subjected to damage from moisture. The tendency of moisture inside the house to evaporate through points of least resistance, like windows, causes extreme dryness on the surfaces.

And sills have a higher exposure to the sun’s rays than other surfaces. Installing storm windows, caulking windows tightly and installing window shades can reduce such weathering.

Paint can also fail when it’s applied to a surface that’s too glossy or dirty. It’s wise to knock off the sheen on existing paint before repainting. High infiltration of dirt and dust makes it a must to pay careful attention to cleaning surfaces during preparation. Lab data indicate latex polymers bond better than oil-based paints and that latex is chemically more stable when dry.

Prepare the Right Mix When Using Concrete

Q: I want to make the correct mix of concrete for replacing a sidewalk section, but am confused by instructions that say, “mix so many parts of cement with so many parts of sand,” etc. Are the parts determined by weight or volume?

A: The correct ratio of sand, cement and aggregate differs according to the way the concrete is to be used. For a sidewalk slab, the classic 1:2:3 mix is best.

Ingredients are measured by volume. One bag of cement equals 1 cubic foot. Add 2 cubic feet of sand and 3 cubic feet of coarse aggregate to one bag of cement to make 4 cubic feet of concrete.

Use 5 to 6 gallons of water in the mixture. Add water slowly, however, since the sand may already be wet. The consistency is right when a handful can be compacted into a ball.

Furnace Developed Recurring Gas Leaks

Q: Two years ago, I purchased a gas-fired furnace, and since then have had recurring gas leaks. It was leak-free for nine months after it was installed. But one year later, there was a gas leak and there have been others since then. Do you have any suggestions?

A: It’s very unusual to have recurring gas leaks. The condition may be the result of a faulty gas valve or impurities in the gas supply that are reacting with the piping that carries the gas to the furnace, eroding minute holes in the piping. Your local utility should help you solve this problem. If not, your best and safest bet is to replace the entire system.