Month: June 2022

  • How to Remove Lacquer Out Of Metal

    How to Remove Lacquer Out Of Metal

    Lacquer is a coating that protects metal from scratches and rust. Hardware, for example brass handles and knobs, is often coated with lacquer. Before doing any kind of metal antiquing, you will need to work to eliminate the lacquer so you can access it. You can use a solvent and buffing instrument to remove the lacquer and restore its glow.

    Soak a clean cloth in lacquer thinner.

    Rub the cloth over the metal until the lacquer thinner is still gone. Based on how thick the layer of lacquer thinner is, you may have to resoak the cloth to work off all of the lacquer thinner.

    Buff the metal sterile using a handheld rotary tool fitted with a felt polishing cone felt polishing wheel accessory to attain a lustrous finish on the metal.

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  • To Make Kitchen Countertops Shine

    To Make Kitchen Countertops Shine

    Shiny countertops create a kitchen look clean and prepared for the upcoming big meal. However, the technique to clean them make them shine — depends upon the substances in the countertop. One method doesn’t match all of them. From laminate to granite countertops, employing the ideal cleaning techniques may give your countertops back their shine.

    Solid Surface Shine

    Solid-surfaced countertops made from polyester and acrylics do not demand a good deal of upkeep to allow them to look clean and glistening unless the countertop has a matte or semigloss end to start with. Employ ammonia-based cleansers or even a teaspoon of mild dish soap mixed with water to clean and shine the surface. Avoid cleaners that contain residues, which could blur the surface of the countertop.

    Polished Rock

    Marble and granite countertops contain a natural shine to them after they’re polished. You need to seal the countertop to stop oil or food stains impregnating the surface. Carbonated beverages, fruit juices and other organic acids may eat away at the surface of marble if they’re left in place. A steam cleaner has both surface types super clean; otherwise, a couple squirts from a pH-balanced dishwashing liquid mixed with a quart of water does the work. Insert 1/4 cup of isopropyl alcohol to the mixture for glistening and counter tops. Reapply the sealant annual.

    Ceramic Tiles Big or Small

    Kitchen countertops made from ceramic tiles need routine upkeep to guard the grout and tiles from seeming grungy. After cleansing, seal the grout to shield it from excessive wear and stains. For regular vinyl cleaning without leaving a film, add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water, but boost the vinegar to a full cup if the tile countertop appears dull. Clean the surface, rinsing with water. Finish up with a wipe down of club soda to make the shine.

    Laminate Countertops

    Though not as durable as countertop flooring, laminate is a cheap alternative to more costly countertop surfaces. Guard your laminate countertop by chopping or cutting items onto a cutting board instead of directly onto the surface. Wash the surface with a few squirts of gentle detergent mixed in a bowl of warm water, then wipe down with a clean cloth. Rinse with a different cloth and wipe it dry. Don’t permit water to flood the surface of timber or get near seams, as this may cause the material to swell. Don’t use over-the-counter cleansers which contain residues, because these can leave a streaked end on the surface.

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  • When to Acid-Wash a Swimming Pool

    When to Acid-Wash a Swimming Pool

    The process of acid-washing your pool eliminates unsightly stains as a result of algae buildup and hard water. Once your water starts to appear murky and unusually black or green, it is very likely your pool could use an acid-wash to wash this up. While you’re able to perform this process yourself, it is ideal to leave it to a professional service to prevent damaging the plaster surface of the pool.

    The Pool from the Black Lagoon

    Without routine maintenance, your pool water will start to allow the development of algae. Algae growth that sits in your pool for months or more at a time will stain the porous plaster from this pool so intensely that you won’t be able to eliminate it with routine scrubbing. Generally, if you can not find the bottom of your pool through the slimy water, then it has been sitting long enough to warrant an acid-wash. After scrubbing it another indication your pool requires an acid-wash is the rapid growth of algae. Spores can seep deep within the plaster that is and continue.

    Scrub a Dub Dub with Acid from the Tub

    To acid-wash your pool, you’ll need to drain all the water out of it, using a pump. Wet the walls with a hose of the pool. Mix equal portions hydrochloric acid also referred to as muriatic acid water and — to spray the surfaces of the pool. Scrub the acid mixture into the plaster surface for about 30 seconds, with a brush. Wash away the acid with water to stop it. Based on the depth of these stains within the pool, you may need to replicate this process. Once full, neutralize the contaminated water with soda ash and then pump the rinse water out of the pool.

    To Acid-Wash or Not To Acid-Wash

    Your pool generally only requires an acid-washing each five to seven years if you frequently treat and take care of the water in it, recommends the Bratton Pools site. Acid-washing your pool often can harm the plaster coating within the pool since the acid strips off a little layer of it every time you do it. Rather than acid-washing a slightly cluttered pool, manually scrub it with no acid or with a chlorine alternative to prevent damaging the plaster. This could be enough to wash out the pool. Be aware that you should never acid-wash vinyl-lined pools, which only require cleaning with solvents and conditioners.

    Acid Is a Dangerous Thing

    Even though you are able to acid-wash yourself with substances found in any pool supply shop, if you do not understand what you are doing, you could seriously harm your pool or injure yourself. When acid-washing a pool, then you need to wear protective equipment because of the caustic nature of the chemicals, which can burn your skin and cause respiratory damage if inhaled. For safety reasons, always execute an acid-wash with one other person serving you. Improperly washing your pool with acid may not just harm the plaster, but could cause discoloration. Consult with a professional pool cleaner concerning acid-washing to prevent problems with your pool.

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  • How to Wash Polyester Sofa Fabric

    How to Wash Polyester Sofa Fabric

    Polyester — cloth was made by a man + — receives praise for its aesthetic qualities, like its look and feel, in addition to its operational attributes that have strength, durability and resistance to mold abrasion and mildew. Polyester soiled and can nevertheless get stained. Whether your sofa fabric was soiled by a spill or through regular use, a cleaning methods can allow it to preserve a gorgeous, like-new look.

    Powerful Suction

    Start your sofa-cleaning job with vacuuming. Does this household task remove dust, dirt and pet hair that detracts from the appearance of furniture, it also prevents debris from causing damage to fibers and sinking into cloth. Eliminate all detachable cushions from the couch and use the crevice tool of your vacuum cleaner to get hard-to-reach areas for a cleaning. Weekly vacuuming of your sofa gives an effective maintenance tool. With deodorizing baking powder before 15, for an additional freshening touch, sprinkle the cloth.

    On the Spot

    Optimal cleaning methods for polyester fabrics vary according to the manufacturer. In case the couch’s cloth can withstand water, create a solution of 1 teaspoon laundry detergent, 1 teaspoon white vinegar and 1 quart of warm water. Test your cleanser on a tiny, discreet section of this sofa first. Use a dabbing motion that is mild to use the solution with a microfiber towel following using a clean cloth and wrung out with cold fresh water to rinse the remedy away.

    Drying Matters

    Mildew and mold thrive in moist conditions. Encourage fabric to dry quickly to prevent the development of these fungi that are foul. If possible, set cushions in the sun. You might use a hair dryer to hasten the drying process. When the cloth is totally dry, go over it. This assists return polyester fibers resulting in softer.

    Tips and Techniques

    When it comes to cleaning upholstered furniture, Little children and pets present additional challenges. A set of rubber gloves suffices at a pinch Even though there is a sticky lint roller the best way to remove stubborn pet hair. Pet soils respond well to baking soda and vinegar, both of which not just clean, but also act as air fresheners for urine, vomit and other unpleasant facts of existence. Complications are faced by homes with small children. Instead of freaking out when you see the piece of gum cleaning into the cloth, harden it by massaging it with a ice 29, for peeling.

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  • How to Prevent Pilling on Cotton Flannel Sheets

    How to Prevent Pilling on Cotton Flannel Sheets

    Maintain your cozy flannel sheets at top condition without bumpy pilling. When fibers split and stick on a flannel surface, then this pilling will age your own sheets before their time. Avoid this unwanted fuzz by minimizing the friction your sheets suffer on laundry day. If pilling does collect, a sharp tool will help you maintain your linen looking fresh for several seasons to come.

    Machine Washing

    A front load washer collection horizontally is much more gentle on the sheets than a top load washer with a spindle or agitator. Launder your sheets before using them for the first time. Separate colored sheets from white sheets to keep the white sheets from picking up other colors and looking dingy. Set your washer to your cold water, gentle cycle to minimize shrinkage and color fading. Wash without soap to get the first time, and then add 1/2 to 1 cup of white vinegar mixed with water into the rinse cycle. For future washings, launder with a mild detergent and warm or cold water (visit the manufacturer’s care label) on a gentle cycle for the minimum time. A good illustration of a gentle detergent is one with cellulase enzymes. Avoid inserting harsh detergents, bleaches and fabric softeners. Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar mixed with water into the rinse cycle, if preferred.

    Drying Methods

    Hang your sheets to dry to help reduce wear and tear caused from a drier’s tumbling action. If hanging sheets is not an option, set the dryer to your low heat cycle. Remove your flannel sheets as soon as the cycle ends to stop over-drying the fibers. Remove all of the lint from the lint basket.

    Removing the Pilling

    When pilling reveals, trim off the raised surface using a clothing shaver. A hardware store, online appliance distributor or even a fabric store often stocks these battery-operated, hand-held shavers to trim the bumpy surface to get a sleeker finish. The rotating blades cut and collect the fuzz in a small receptacle for quick removal.

    Storing Your Sheets

    If the sheets are folded and folded in the cupboard, take the time to shake the sheets out sometimes to avoid the folded edges from setting in and looking irregular. Avoid tightly packing your sheets.

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  • How to Fix a Dent in a Coffee Table

    How to Fix a Dent in a Coffee Table

    It may have been there for weeks, or you might have recently caused it yourself. But once you notice, it’s just like the elephant in the room. The dent on your own coffee table appears to raise and get deeper. If you can’t take your eyes off it, then it’s time to get involved and manage it just like a professional. Woodworkers employ a simple trick to eliminate ugly dents. If this does not work, you can always get out power tools and eliminate it the traditional way.

    Eliminate the Iron

    Apply a drop of water into the dent by means of a cotton swab. Fill the dent completely.

    Fold a small cotton fabric four times or till it’s around the size of a quarter in diameter. Place the folded fabric right on the dent.

    Put on the tip of a hot iron into the cloth directly over the dent. Hold the iron in place until steam stops rising the fabric gets dry. Examine the dent.

    Repeat Steps 1, 2 and 3 in case you can still find the dent.

    Eliminate the Sander

    Sand the surface of the table with an orbital sander using 100-grit sandpaper. Sand back and forth above the table parallel with the grain till the finish is eliminated. Change the sandpaper as needed once it fails to function correctly.

    Apply wood putty into the dent using a putty knife. Use sufficient force to create a smear of putty that fills the dent and extends above it by 1/4 inch around the perimeter. Allow the putty to dry.

    Sand the camel and putty smooth using a hand-sanding cube using 120-grit sandpaper. Sand with strokes parallel to the grain.

    Apply a wet coat of matching stain into the tabletop with a soft fabric. Wipe off the stain immediately using a dry cloth. Allow the stain to dry.

    Spray the camel using one coat of lacquer and allow it to dry. Sand the camel with 180-grit sandpaper. Spray the camel with another coat of lacquer.

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  • Slow Bathroom Sink Drain Remedy

    Slow Bathroom Sink Drain Remedy

    Bathroom drains are subject to clogs from gathered hair and soap scum. Chemical drain cleaners can be found to clear your drains, but the harsh chemicals are tough on pipes, especially older ones. With eco-friendly home treatments, you can keep your drains running freely and prevent costly plumbing penalties.

    Clearing Drains

    Remove the stopper by pulling it upwards. If the stopper doesn’t pull out easily, it may be held in place with a pivot rod. Look under the sink for a nut which retains the pivot rod set. Unscrew the nut. Use pliers when it’s tough to turn. Pull the pivot rod out to release the stopper.

    Clear hair trapped across the stopper. Wash the stopper with dish soap and water.

    Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup white vinegar to the drain. It will begin to foam.

    Place the stopper back in the drain to cover it. Wait five minutes until the mix stops foaming.

    Remove the stopper and pour boiling water to the drain to clear away debris. Reinstall the stopper. For a pivot-rod type, line up the pivot rod with the slot in the stopper. Replace the nut to the pivot rod and tighten by hand. Run water in the sink and await leaking across the nut. If there’s any leaking, tighten the nut further using pliers.

    Clearing Stubborn Hair Clogs

    Remove the sink stopper in the drain (see step 1, above).

    Bend a wire clothes hanger to form a little hook which will fit down the drain. Reach down the drain with the clothing hanger to fish out hair.

    Flush the drain with hot water. Replace the stopper (see step 5, above).

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  • What's a Grape Vine Cane?

    What's a Grape Vine Cane?

    Growing strawberries in the home garden is filled with challenges. From pest and disease prevention to the numerous unique methods of training these fruit-bearing vines, there is a great deal for a gardener to know about growing strawberries. Before planting the initial vine, though, you should get familiar with common grape language describing the subtle, but different, outward pieces of a grape vine’s physique.

    Grapevine Canes

    Grapevine canes, by definition, are shoots which have attained about a year in age. By this time, the tender shoot has developed a protective bark layer and has dropped all or almost all of its leaves. Canes become “older wood” when their brownish, tight bark becomes a brown bark which attaches loosely to the timber and shreds easily as a result of creation of a cork layer under it. The pith of a cane can be much easier to distinguish than in older wood.

    The Cane’s Purpose

    The cane houses buds that form shoots, leaves and grape clusters for one season. Without it, grapevines would be unable to propagate or fruit. As the cane ages during its one year of existence, it matures into older wood which could possibly be utilised as a trunk or cordon, based on the age of the vine and location of this cane.

    Canes and Vine Training

    Grapevine training is mainly an exercise in curbing and removing canes from the vine. The main methods of grapevine training are cane systems and spur systems, but both methods involve training canes of different lengths, spurs being people trimmed to four or fewer buds. European grapes are best trained to spur-pruning systems, however others are usually trained to cane systems which demand several generations of pairs of canes being trained to wire trellises. Once fruiting is finally permitted to start, aging canes are eliminated at the conclusion of each year, with the occasional replacement for the primary trunks left behind to fully mature.

    Choosing Canes

    Prior to canes are little more than buds, you ought to be cautiously watching their growth and growth. Although a few canes should remain on the vine, not all canes are the same. Thicker canes closer to the trunk often make the best fruiting wood, but be sure to leave ample space between the canes which will be making fruit to lower the odds of several fungal diseases that may develop when fruit and leaves are tightly packed together. Keep a close watch on your young canes for unusual spots or bumps, because these can be signs of disease or insects.

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  • A Seaweed Spray Solution for Fruit Trees

    A Seaweed Spray Solution for Fruit Trees

    The idea of employing a seaweed spray on your home garden plants might appear somewhat strange. Some may wonder exactly what a deep sea plant might possibly do for your apple or pear tree in their back yard, but organic gardeners realize that seaweed is full of nutrients that can aid your fruits grow strong and healthy. If new seaweed is not readily available to soften your soil, extract can be used as a leaf conditioner.

    Why Seaweed

    Seaweed, also referred to as kelp, comprises over 70 nutrients helpful to any plant life. Ocean water contains nearly every natural element on Earth. The waves across the superficial coasts, where many cedar grows, bring all of those antioxidants and vitamins straight to the seaweed. The plant soaks up all of the rich components and becomes a sort of storage facility for them. Using seaweed to fertilize gives your home garden plants access to every one of those nutrients.

    Action

    Seaweed is reported to perform a range of positive things for trees. Advocates claim that it can strengthen root systems and stimulate development after especially traumatic times, making trees more resistant to pressure. Fruit trees reportedly will provide more blossoms and reveal more resistance to mold and fungus growth. So far as fruit itself goes, cupping can help to grow bigger, sweeter, better quality and more shelf-stable fruit.

    Fresh Preparation

    If you live near a coastline, access to seaweed may make it simpler to make an original spray alternative for your own fruit trees. Check local municipal codes, as seaweed removal can be prohibited. To prepare a solution, put a couple of handfuls of seaweed into a household bucket and fill the bucket with water. Permit the mixture to sit down for a couple of days and then stir it. Continue this procedure for about a week or until the seaweed starts to rot. Once it reaches this stage, pour out water until the solution in about 2 parts water to 1 part seaweed, then bottle it into a sprayer. It might seem counterproductive to spray a plant on your own fruit trees, however, the rotting simply decomposes the seaweed into smaller particles without undermining each of the nutritional value. This may not smell pleasant while preparing, but is a viable option for getting those vitamins and minerals directly to your own fruit tree.

    Extracts

    There are lots of liquid and powdered concentration types of kelp accessible. The powdered form is the cheaper of the 2 options. Dilute either of those with water according to manufacturer’s directions and put them into a spray bottle.

    Application Schedule

    For any kind of seaweed alternative, set the sprayer to a fine mist so that it can be easily absorbed by the leaves. Saturate both tops and bottoms of the leaves. It’s usually advised to spray seaweed solution right after planting to spur germination, at budding to promote nutritious growth, and following transplanting to reduce harm from shock. One plant has evolved, the solution should be used once each growing cycle and following traumatic events such as transplanting or damage.

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  • The way to recognize a Wild Phlox Plant

    The way to recognize a Wild Phlox Plant

    Wild phlox (Phlox divaricata) is found across a broad region from the central United States and north into Canada, growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. A member of the Polemoniaceae plant family, wild phlox is a perennial which grows in low shrub form and is found in woodlands, wetlands and along the woodsy borders of fields. It grows to roughly 2 feet tall by 2 feet broad, and sends up its summer-blooming purple-blue blooms on slender stems. Wild phlox grows in various types of soil, tolerates mild droughts and propagates by releasing its large supply of seeds from the autumn.

    Notice if the flower you think is wild phlox is increasing in full shade or part shade and in the woods, since this is the plant’s preferred habitat.

    Cut one blossom cluster and its own stem in the plant and also affirm it is wild phlox by first noting its color, which should be light blue or blue purple, and in certain cases, white. Notice if the petals are fused at the base and that a narrow tube runs up from this foundation to where they join in the center near the peak of the flower.

    Measure the cluster, that ought to be made up of 3 to 5 flowers, and look for a width of approximately 2 inches, with each flower measuring 1/2-inch to 1 inch broad.

    Confirm the bract, or so the first petals just below the base of each flower, is hairy and that the petals are narrow close to the center and widen and grow rounder toward the outer ends.

    Examine the leaves, which should measure 1 to 2 inches long and 1/2-inch wide across a rounded base. They’re opposite from one another on the stem, taper to a slightly rounded or pointed tip and are fused directly onto the plant’s most important stem. Be sure the main stem is slightly hairy and perhaps somewhat sticky.

    Measure the plant to be confident it falls in the typical documented height of 10 to 18 inches, and assess the width, which should measure approximately 18 to 24 inches.

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