H4

Al & Kelly Carrell

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Copper pipe repairs are not all that hard. It just takes a little practice. They do last a long time, and are considered one of the best materials for plumbing. A pipe cutter is the best tool to use for cutting though copper pipe, but if you don't have one and you need to use a saw, before you make your cut, stuff inside the pipe a wooden dowel that's small enough to fit snugly. This will keep the pipe rounded, and the dowel comes right out after you have finished your cut. Always knock the burrs off the edges and do a light sanding for a perfect fit.

Dear Carrells: Whoever built my home didn't figure anyone would actually work in the garage. There is only one outlet there, and it is located so the garage door plugs into it. I put a heavy-duty extension cord in this plug and ran it to my workbench. I have a power/surge-protector strip there, and it plugs into the extension cord. Now I have plenty of power right where I need it. I just turn the strip off when it's not in use. It's quite a convenience after not having anything for so long.

-- J.A.

A SUPER HINT -- Dust your light bulbs. It sounds crazy, but dust can build up on the outside of your light bulbs and cause them to overheat and burn out more quickly. Dust also cuts down on the amount of light actually coming from the bulbs.

Dear Al: For years we had a greenhouse in our backyard. The way we kept it warm in the winter without completely covering the windows was by putting a layer of bubble wrap over them. I used this inside our home last year, and plan to do it again this year because it worked so well. You spray some water on the inside of the window glass and then put a layer of bubble wrap over the glass. It sticks for a long time and really helps cut down on energy loss through the glass. It also lets light in, although you can't see out once it's in place. We use it on the basement windows, bathrooms and in several of the upstairs bedrooms that we don't use often.

-- K.S.

A Tip From the Super HandyMom -- Our game room is full of photos, pennants and other sports memorabilia. We added some seating and then needed some pillows. After sewing seat cushions and drapes, I had had enough of the sewing machine, so I opted for simple pillows made from sports jerseys.

I just cut and sewed the jerseys over a pillow form. Each one is a little different, and they look really cute.

SHOPTALK -- GE Silicone II Caulk is one of the best solutions for just about every caulking need you could have. It cures quickly, allowing for a shower (indoors or out) in just three hours, is paint-ready in 30 minutes or sooner and is resistant to mould and mildew. It is waterproof, can take the hot summer sun all day and is freeze-proof for those harsh winters. Check it out at your home centre or hardware store and online at www.gesealants.com.

* Got a question or a handy tip? Visit www.thesuperhandyman.com. Those of general interest will be used in future columns.