Archive for 'Home Improvement Advise' Category
What are the rules for “green” bathroom accessories such as grab bars and shower rods?
What percentage of recycled content is acceptable in bathroom hardware such as grab bars, shower rods, toilet paper holders, robe hooks, etc.? Answer Dear Larry, To answer your question, there are no rules or laws that specially address what an acceptable percentage of recycled content is for decorative hardware, either from the manufacturing or the [...]
I am renovating my kitchen and have been looking into green cabinetry. How does KCMA ESP certification compare to other green options?
Specifically, from what I can tell about the KCMA ESP, it looks like some added urea-formaldehyde is allowed and wood is not required to be FSC-certified. How does KCMA ESP-certified cabinetry stack up against conventional and greener (i.e., no added urea-formaldehyde and FSC-certified lumber) options? How have the new 2011 requirements affected what qualifies for [...]
I’m considering building a solar water heater using a 55-gallon drum and 1/2″ black plastic tube. Advice?
The drum would be filled with water that would be heated by the sun. The black tube would be rolled around the inside of the barrel and contain the supply water. What length of 1/2″ black tube would be needed to raise the supply temp. from approx. 52 degrees to the water barrel temp. of [...]
I need a new water filtration system on our well at home and was wondering what the least toxic systems are. Any ideas?
We have high levels of manganese and iron and don’t want to use chemicals to get rid of them. Answer The answer to this question is not as straightforward as it may seem. As with all water treatment systems, a full water analysis is necessary to determine the right course of action. it is important [...]
manifolds
I am replacing my gray pipe with white. I’m told I should use a manifold to even the water pressure in the system. I know nothing about this. Is it a good idea and where can I learn about it. It should be noted we are on a well. Thanks, Bill