Weatherstripping, Caulking Windows Can Help Cut Noise
Q. I have a small cottage next to a noisy apartment building. What kind of windows will help with noise insulation?
A.S.
Santa Ana
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A. See if your present windows can be updated, says Debbie Mundt of College Glass & Mirror in Anaheim. Make sure they’re properly caulked and that the weatherstripping is in good shape.
Some of the newer dual-glazed windows, which are basically two panes of glass with air between them, can give you some relief from the noise. You may also want to look for windows made with laminated glass, which are thicker and stronger.
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Q. Our refrigerator is 10 years old and seems to be in reasonably good shape. I was told by a friend, however, that when it gets that old the gaskets need to be replaced. Would changing the door gaskets now be a good idea, or should I just wait until they’re deteriorating?
P.L.
Placentia
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A. If your gaskets are letting cold air out, changing the gaskets could make a huge difference in your utility costs, says Caesar del Prato of Caesar’s Appliance Service in Laguna Niguel.
The old tried-and-true test is to close the freezer and refrigerator doors on a dollar bill. If the bill is snug when you pull on it, the gasket is probably in good shape. If it pulls out easily, it’s probably worth it to change the gasket. They usually cost $30 to $60.
They’re not difficult to replace if you’re handy. Know your fridge’s year, make and model when you go to the appliance parts store. To make the job easier, soak the gasket in hot water before installation.
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Q. We moved into a home this summer that has relatively new beige carpeting. We really like the carpeting, but the previous owners left some cigarette burns in the bedroom and den. How can these be patched?
P.Y.
Costa Mesa
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A. It’s not a difficult job, as long as the carpeting hasn’t faded much, says Mark Silverberg of New York Carpets in Anaheim. Using a razor that looks similar to a pizza cutter, take a small circle of carpeting from a remnant or the back of a carpeted closet. Cut out the damaged portion and glue the patch in place.
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Q. I hate to paint and can’t afford to have a professional do my two bedrooms. How can I do the job in one coat? It seems like whenever I paint I’m having to go over the walls twice to cover them properly.
G.D.
Anaheim Hills
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A. You’ll need to get the best quality paint you can afford, says painter Jim Smithson of Huntington Beach. Off-brands are cheaper for a reason. Secondly, have the walls prepared properly. Clean them and cover up dents and nail holes.
If the old color is darker than the new color, you’ll almost certainly have to apply a second coat. Use good rollers and brushes and try to apply the paint evenly. Don’t forget the music while you’re working. It helps the job go faster.
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Q. I want to replace my kitchen door with the bottom half of a Dutch door, but I’ve been unable to find one. Are they still made?
M.T.
Fountain Valley
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A. They’re not commonly available, but they can be ordered through a lumberyard or hardwood dealer, says Jim Gorman of Rancho Lumber in Westminster. It may not be possible to get just the bottom portion of the door, however. You’ll need to know the dimensions of the doorway and whether it’s for an interior or exterior door (exterior doors are made to withstand the elements).
