Q: We have a large picture window and french
doors off our family room that face south. We
just moved into the home last spring and the
heat in the summer was unbearable in this area
of our house. Do you have any suggestions that
can help cool down this space? We would like
to avoid curtains so we don’t lose our view. We
would also like to find a screen that will fit on the
French doors. I appreciate any ideas you might
have.
A: This is not an uncommon scenario and I do
have a few suggestions that should help you
out. Shade this area by Installing an awning
over your french doors is to keep direct sunlight
from beating into the house. You may even
consider consulting a landscaping professional
for suggested tree choices and locations that
will shade these areas of your home as well.
Solar control window films would be ideal for
your french doors and picture window. These
are available through Newco Products. If you
are looking for a screen for your french door you
can install a retractable screen door designed for
this purpose. Go to www.miragescreensystems.com to find an installer in your area. Feel free to
call the HouseSmart Referral office to find out
where these products or services are available
in your area at 1-888-266-8806 or go to www.
thehousesmart.com.
It's Just that Easy!
Shell Busey
Q: We have a large area of cork
flooring tiles in our church that has
become very dull over the years. We
have been told we should not be
washing it and this is causing to
become dull. Is there anything
we can do to protect and
rejuvenate the look of the
cork flooring?
A: Cork is extremely
resilient, however
most types of cork
flooring will need to
be refinished at some time, depending on the
level of foot traffic that it is subjected to. You can
tell it’s time to reseal your floors when the surface
begins to look dull. Before applying the finish,
clean the surface with the Shell Busey Home
cleaning formula and a rotating floor scrubbing
machine, rinse well and allow to dry. For a good
quality finish, consider an acrylic urethane gloss
or semi-gloss finish, this should be applied with a
lambs wool pad.
For regular cleaning you should vacuum the
cork floor regularly and for more thorough
cleaning, damp mop it with a mild soap. Be
sure to only use a slightly damp mop and avoid
using excessive amounts of moisture and use a
vacuum cleaner without a beater brush.
Q: I am building a new home and I would like to
seal the garage and basement concrete floors.
How long should I allow the concrete to cure
before applying a sealer?
What is the best product to use to seal both
floors?
A: You should allow one week for the concrete
to cure before sealing. The product I recommend
to seal garage and basement floors is called
Aqua Seal, which is an acrylic penetrating sealer
available through Cloverdale Paint stores as well
as their authorized dealers.
It's Just That Easy!
Shell Busey
