Wood is a standard building material that has been used since we emerged from caves. But if it’s not protected, it will rot. There are products that can repair or replace rotted wood.

Minwax makes a wood hardener. This product can be applied to less-than-firm wood to add stability to it. It will buy you time before repairs or replacement work must be done.

If the wood is rotted and needs to be replaced, consider trying wood epoxy. Don’t do this on a large area because the materials can be costly. If the area is large, you probably could replace the wood itself. But for window sills, some exterior trim, columns and other hard-to-replace pieces, this would be a good solution.

Wood epoxy is a two-component system that replaces damaged wood. It can be sanded, carved and painted to finish just like the original wood. There are several different brands. Read and follow the label directions, and you should get good results. Some folks have used auto-body filler, such as Bondo, but it doesn’t seem to last as long as wood epoxy.

To use the epoxy, remove the damaged wood either by drilling, chiseling or cutting it out with a saw. If possible, it would be good to drill a few extra holes into the adjoining wood so the epoxy can get a good hold. Make sure the area is clean and dry and that you are working on a day when it’s not too cold or too hot. Try to get a smooth, flush finish when it’s applied.

After it has cured, you can sand, prime and paint. Use quality primer and paint, because the area is obviously prone to rot.

It’s not meant for structural reinforcement, but it can sure beat replacing a column or costly trim around your home.

Butcher-block redo

Question: I have an old butcher-block table that I am trying to restore. What would be the best way to deal with the old knife marks and stains on the surface?

Answer: Sanding can get rid of some stains and marks, but if they are deep, you’re just going to have to live with the “character” of the piece.

You should clean it with bleach to remove any bacteria. The bleach can be used to spot treat some stains, but be careful not to bleach it too much or you’ll create more spots.

To make it look better, use butcher-block oil or mineral oil. The oil will penetrate the surface and bring out the wood tones. Wipe off what doesn’t soak in.

Painting slick walls

Q: The walls in my bathroom are panels covered with a vinyl-type material. I would like to paint them, but I don’t know what type of paint to use on this surface. Can you help me?

A: You need to scuff-sand the entire surface to take the gloss or shine off. Then use a quality primer and paint. Or, you can cover the wall with a liner material that will eliminate the sanding and give you a textured finish that is ready to paint over.

Readers’ tips

My toilet wasn’t flushing as well as it used to. It seemed to be working properly, but I figured there were mineral deposits built up under the edge of the toilet bowl. I decided to try to clear them out. I used a cotton swab dipped in vinegar. The vinegar worked great at dissolving the deposits, and the cotton swab worked them loose and cleaned the holes. Now it’s like a new toilet.

I’ve been trying to get our house ready to put on the market, so I’ve been doing a lot of work. I had to drill holes through a piece of sheet metal and was having a rough time because the drill bit just skated around on the metal. Then I wised up and sandwiched (and clamped) the metal sheet between two pieces of wood before drilling the holes. The metal didn’t move, and the holes were perfect.

I used to have mesh baskets hanging in my kitchen that held vegetables. I hung the baskets in my shower and now use them to hold the shampoo, cream rinse and other things that used to clutter the floor of the shower.

Carrells’ tip

Clean tools often last longer. Wipe your tools down before storing them after use. Give all metal tools a light coating of oil or lubricant to protect them from rust.

source : www.orlandosentinel.com

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