| Q: |
What is the difference between Type "M" and "L" copper pipe? |
| A: |
In domestic hot and cold water systems, Type L copper pipe should be used because it is thicker and is much more dependable. Type M is prone to developing leaks. |
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| Q: |
What is re-glazing? |
| A: |
Re-glazing a tub (or sink or shower) does not involve re-coating with a new porcelain glaze. It is painting the tub with an epoxy paint which is not as durable as porcelain. With regular use, the re-glazed surface quickly becomes decrepit. |
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| Q: |
Why would I want a concrete mortar-bed as a tile foundation? |
| A: |
A concrete mortar- bed float used as a tile base is superior to Wonder Board, Hardi Board, Dura Board, Green Board, etc. because:
1) it is a waterproof surface unlike most boards which can get mushy and release tiles when wet,
2) unlike boards, a float is seamless which greatly reduces the possibility of the tile cracking as it can along the seam lines of the boards,
3) a float can be made perfectly straight and level allowing the tile to be set plumb and with a tight grout joint. |
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| Q: |
What is the difference between a tight and a wide grout joint? |
| A: |
When ceramic tile is set, the width of the grout joint determines the type of grout which may be used. With a tight grout joint, unsanded grout is used. Sanded grout must be used on joints 1/8 inch or wider. Sanded grout is much more difficult to clean. |
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| Q: |
Are there any toilets available that flush well with only 1.6 gallons of water? |
| A: |
Yes, there are some excellent flushing 1.6 gal toilets on the market today. I would be more than happy to recommend several to you. |
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| Q: |
Why would I spend more money to buy stainless steel jacketed feeds? |
| A: |
Un-jacketed vinyl and rubber hose feeds commonly found in homes can herniate, leak at full force, and cause extensive damage to homes. Flexible hoses that connect the washing machines, sinks, and toilets to the wall valves should always be the type that are stainless steel jacketed to prevent this from happening. |
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| Q: |
Is using combination heat/fan/light fixtures a good choice? |
| A: |
Combination heat/fan/light fixtures generally perform poorly. They are often energy inefficient, loud and ineffective. Installing separate components is usually a better choice. |
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| Q: |
What are the characteristics of the common materials used for countertops in bathrooms and kitchens? |
| A: |
CERAMIC TILE: Most ceramic tiles provide a very durable surface. Tile surfaces do not require sealing.
GRANITE: Granite provides a very durable seamless surface and once sealed, granite will not stain or discolor. Natural granite usually has characteristics like embedded crystals and a pattern of movement.
SYNTHETIC GRANITE: Synthetic granite has a very consistent pattern and is as durable as natural granite but does not require sealing.
CORIAN: Corian also has a very consistent pattern, is softer than granite and tile but doe not require professional maintenance. It can be honed (scratches buffed out) with common household cleaners.
SOFTER STONE: Travertine, limestone, and marble are soft and require regular professional maintenance. |
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| Q: |
What is the difference between face frame and Euro cabinets? |
| A: |
Euro cabinets are less expensive to build and provide much more usable storage space than do face-frame cabinets. Because there is no wasted space between drawers/doors, finger-pulls are not an available for Euro cabinets. Knobs or handles are required. |
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NOTE: If you have any questions or any suggestions for the "Helpful
Hints" section, please contact me.
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Thank you, Mike Tenenbaum
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