Molding Keeps Vinyl From Curling
Question: Our vinyl flooring isn’t worn out, but it seems to be raising a bit at the seams. Is there an easy way to remedy this?
B.K., Anaheim
Answer: “If the floor is coming up at the edges, the problem could be that it was installed without shoe molding,” says Tony Beber of Anaheim Centsible Tile in Anaheim.
“The vinyl is stored in large rolls, so when it’s installed, you need molding to hold the edges down so it won’t curl back up. If it’s curling beyond the molding, you’ll need a wider molding to hold it down.”
*
Q: I’m considering having the exterior of my house texture-coated instead of painted. What are some of the pros and cons involved in having this done?
S.T., Fountain Valley
A: “The big advantage, according to those who sell texture coating, is that you won’t have to paint for about 15 years,” says Charlie K. of Tustin Paint Mart in Tustin.
“It’s a thick, colored paste that’s applied directly to the stucco and dries quickly. If applied correctly, it probably does last a long time. However, if it’s not put on right, it can come off the stucco in large pieces. And while you may not have to paint the majority of your house, you’ll still have to paint the wood trim periodically. Also, take a look at other homes in your area that have had it applied and talk to the owners to see how they like the new surfacing.”
*
Q: The grout that is used between strips of brick we have is crumbling. What should we do about patching it?
L.S.M., Costa Mesa
A: “You might want to go with a general concrete patching compound that can be used either inside or out,” says handyman Al Kramer of Placentia.
“Use a trowel to scrape away any loose grout, then fill it in with the patch and remove the excess. The concrete will probably be a little stronger than the original grout and will give it a different look, but if you intend to keep the brick in place for a while, I’d say go with the concrete.”
*
Q: I’m going to have to paint my living and family rooms, and I’ve been told I should use flat paint for these areas. I’d rather use semi-gloss because it’s easier to clean. Is there any problem with doing that?
E.Y., Santa Ana
A: “If you like the durability of an enamel but you don’t want the sheen, you might want to try an eggshell-type finish,” says Joe Ragsdale of Color Center in La Mirada.
“It has an extremely low sheen, but it’s much easier to clean than latex flat paint. It’s great for hallways, living rooms, any place a flat finish would be preferred. If you’re painting over wood, make sure you’re not going over an oil-based enamel. If you are, that should be prepared and primed before using a latex paint.”
*
Q: We have a problem with a running toilet. I’ve seen stopper balls at hardware stores that have a propeller that makes them twist as they fall onto the seat and supposedly seal better. Will this fix the problem?
D.D., Westminster
A: “I think you’ve got to look at the entire system to make sure it’s not something else that’s causing the toilet to run,” says plumber Dave Martin of Santa Ana.
“If everything else looks OK, you can try using a new stopper. These often fail after a few years, and before putting it in, clean off the flange where it sits so that it will create a good seal after it falls.”
Handyman’s Note: In reference to a recent question regarding removing mustard stains from carpeting, L.S.M. of Costa Mesa writes to recommend a product called Sterling’s Magic. ‘I’ve used it since 1985, and it truly is ‘magic.’ ” It’s available at some carpeting stores around the county, or by writing Sterling’s Magic, 15922 Strathern St., Suite 15, Van Nuys, Calif. 91406.
