Q. We have aluminum gutters that constantly leak in the corners. I would like to attempt to repair them myself and need your advice as to what product and procedure I should use.
A: Aluminum gutters that are continually exposed to the elements, especially sun, are very prone to expansion and contraction.
With constant movement, the sealant used at the time of installation breaks down, resulting in leaky gutters. This usually happens at the corners where an outside or inside mitre is installed.
To repair, ensure the inside of the gutters are clean, using my Shell Busey Home Cleaning Formula. Rinse and let dry. With 400-grit sand/emery paper, etch 4 to 6-inches on either side of the joint to be repaired. Now, apply a peel-and-stick rubber membrane, usually sold by the roll in the roofing section of building supply stores. You will have to overlap the strips. First, line the gutter one way right to the corner with the rubber membrane, press firmly into place and smooth, and then place in the opposite direction and do the same, overlapping the rubber membrane by roughly three inches. It's important that the surface is thoroughly dry and dirt free before applying the peel and stick membrane to the inside of the gutter.
There is a gutter repair product available called gutter seal that is a self-adhesive repair designed specifically for metal or vinyl gutters. These are available through our HouseSmart referral Office by calling 1-888-266-8806 or go to www.TheHouseSmart.com.
Q. In our basement we have dark paneling that is likely a veneer. I would like to know the steps that you recommend to paint over the paneling to brighten up the space.
A. To paint your paneling these are the steps to follow: To begin, wash the walls with the Shell Busey Home Cleaning Formula and rinse well. Next using a pure bristle brush, apply a coat of fast dry alkyd primer to the grooves and then use a roller to apply it to the flat surfaces. Tint the primer to the same shade as your finish coat allow to dry for three to four hours. Apply finish coat of acrylic latex using a polyester paintbrush and paint roller.
It's Just That Easy.
Shell Busey
Listen to Shell Busey on Star Choice Satellite Channel 840. To contact the Shell Busey HouseSmart Referral Network contact 1-888-266-8806 or go to www.TheHouseSmart.com.
For the complete "smart-version" of the Prince George Citizen visit our Digital Edition
