Shower Gets Curtain Call

Question: I dislike all shower doors. I’ve heard that on some stalls, they’re not necessary. Can you give me some information on them?

D.N.

San Clemente

Answer: “I don’t know about stalls that don’t use doors, unless you’re referring to shower curtains,” says Joe Kump of Niagara Plumbing in Garden Grove. “But there are some new doors and enclosures on the market that you may find you like. On the double-sliding doors, there are some new models out that don’t use a bottom track. This makes them easy to clean and cuts down on mildew problems.

“There used to be a glass door that rolled up like a garage door, but it didn’t prove to be reliable. A plastic collapsible door is also out there that’s easy to clean. Among the hinged, swing-out doors you can find some with thicker glass that have a more solid feel.

“Once you’re ready to redo your shower, check out what’s available at a bath supply showroom.”

Q: We’re going to be replacing our roof soon, and I’ve heard that it’s a good idea to have a radiant foil barrier laid down before putting the shingles in place. Is that true?

B.H.

La Palma

A: “I don’t think you’d see much of a difference with a foil barrier since it’s going to be covered by the shingles which will eliminate foil’s reflective quality,” says Jim Gorman of Rancho Lumber and Building Supply in Westminster.

“I would suggest going with a layer of felt before putting the shingles on, since that works just fine in our climate. If you’re concerned about heat loss, check your attic insulation to make sure you’ve a good R-19 covering. It’s an inexpensive way to cut your heating and cooling bills.”

Q: We have an old cherry dresser that’s more than 100 years old and is in great condition. However, the brass hardware needs to be cleaned. Will cleaning it affect the value of the piece?

R.R.

Santa Ana

A: “It shouldn’t make a difference to clean up the hardware,” says Ford Higgens of A Carolina Craftsmen Furniture Restoration. “As a general rule, as long as you’re not making permanent changes in the furniture, it’s OK to do it. When cleaning the hardware, you may take off so much of the grime and wax buildup that it may not look old anymore, but that shouldn’t make it less valuable.”

Q: I’m seeking a bidet-like device that can be attached to a standard water closet seat. Is there any information available on these?

J.M.

Dana Point

A: “You’ll have a hard time finding someone who stocks these. You’ll probably have to order one through a plumbing supply store since there’s not much of a demand for them,” says Joel Gwartz of B.J. Discount Plumbing in Garden Grove.

“They’re made fairly simply. A water outlet attaches to the seat, which is fed from a line that connects with the water supply line. Some have heating units that warm the water, as well as air drying units. They’re really the best way to have a bidet without re-plumbing your bathroom.”