Hour 1
Hear our advice for installing self-sticking flooring tiles over linoleum, the secret weapon to preventing moss and mildew from growing on a roof, and more.
Tips for Installing Self-Sticking Flooring Tiles
A homeowner wants to know: “Can I install self-sticking tiles over my existing linoleum flooring?”
As long as the existing linoleum flooring is structurally sound and level, you can install self-sticking flooring tiles over it. However, there are a few important factors to consider before you begin.
First, make sure that the existing linoleum flooring is completely clean and free of any debris, dirt, or grease that could prevent the new tiles from adhering properly. Use a degreasing cleaner or mix one gallon of hot water, one cup of white vinegar and a few squirts of dish soap.
Next, ensure the existing linoleum flooring is completely level. If there are any bumps, dips, or other irregularities in the surface, these can cause the new tiles to become uneven or create gaps between the tiles. You may need to use a leveling compound to level the existing surface before installing the new tiles.
Before you make any changes to the linoleum floor, test it for asbestos. Older linoleum floors can contain asbestos. If you find that the flooring does contain asbestos, don’t panic — you can still clean the surface, but avoid breaking it up or sanding it.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the quality of the self-sticking tiles you choose. Cheaper tiles might not be the same size or shape, which can leave unsightly gaps that can’t be adjusted. Two brands we highly recommend are Peel and Stick Foor Tiles by Wall Pops and ACHIM.
Overall, if you take the time to properly prepare the existing linoleum flooring and choose the right type of self-sticking tiles for your needs, you can create a gorgeous, long-lasting result that you’ll love.
Preventing Moss and Mildew from Growing on a Roof
Moss and mildew growth on a roof can be a frustrating and unsightly problem for homeowners. Fortunately, there are effective methods to prevent the growth of moss and mildew on your roof.
One simple way to prevent moss and mildew growth is to trim any tree branches that are blocking the sun from reaching your roof. Overhanging branches can create a shady and damp environment that is ideal for moss and mildew growth. Increasing your roof’s exposure to sunlight keeps it drier and discourages these unwanted organisms from growing.
Another effective method is to install copper or zinc metal strips on the highest point of the roof. These strips work by releasing copper or zinc minerals when rainwater washes over them. As the minerals flow down the roof, they kill the moss and mildew, keeping your roof clean and free of these unwanted organisms.
These strips are known as sacrificial strips, as they will eventually corrode and need to be replaced. However, they provide a natural and long-lasting solution to keep your roof free of moss and mildew.
Regular roof maintenance can also help prevent moss and mildew growth. Keep your roof clean by removing any debris, such as leaves or twigs, that accumulate on the roof. Regularly inspect the roof for signs of damage or wear, and address any issues promptly to prevent moisture from penetrating the roof and create a favorable environment for moss and mildew to grow.
Read: How to Remove and Prevent Algae Stains on Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Hour 2
Hear the secret to long-lasting stone and brickwork, a free way to improve your DIY skills, one reason why your water heater pipes are rusting, and more.
Protecting Stone and Brickwork
“I have stone and brickwork on the front of my house,” a homeowner says. “Do I need to do anything with that? Do I need to seal coat it or do anything to keep it nice?”
When bricks and stones are new, they have a natural protective coating that helps to repel moisture and prevent staining. However, as they age, this protective layer can wear away, leaving the material vulnerable to damage from moisture and other environmental factors.
To keep them looking their best, here’s what you need to do:
- Clean it regularly. Over time, dirt, dust, and other debris can accumulate on the surface of your stone and brickwork, making it look dull and unappealing. Regularly clean the surface with a mild detergent and water to remove the buildup and restore its shine.
- Seal coat it. Applying a sealant to your stone and brickwork protects it from water damage, stains, and other environmental factors. This can be especially important if your home is in an area that is prone to harsh weather conditions.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. Bleach or acids can damage the surface and cause discoloration.
Follow these tips, and your stone and brickwork will look great for many years to come.
Watch: Importance of Sealing Concrete and Masonry Surfaces
Enhance Your DIY Skills With The Home Depot’s Workshops
Did you know The Home Depot offers more than just the latest and greatest tools and equipment? You can also learn new skills through free, interactive livestream workshops led by experienced Home Depot associates who are experts in their respective areas.
The workshops provide step-by-step instructions and tips on a variety of projects, from basic repairs to more advanced projects. And the best part is, these workshops are interactive! That means you can ask questions in real-time and get immediate feedback and support.
Whether you need help with your lawn and garden or want to learn how to install various types of flooring, they’ve got you covered. They even have workshops that focus on more creative projects, like making a headboard or building custom furniture.
But it doesn’t stop there! The Home Depot also offers children’s workshops that are fun, engaging, and educational. These workshops teach kids how to build and create their own projects and develop important skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. Plus, they’re led by Home Depot associates who are specially trained to work with kids, so you know they’re in good hands.
And this year, The Home Depot is expanding its commitment to education beyond its online workshops. They’re quadrupling its investment in HBCUs to $4 million. Half will go toward preparing students for their future careers through needs-based programs, and the other will double the Retool Your School Campus Improvement Grant, which provides grants to HBCUs supporting sustainable campus enhancements.
Go to homedepot.com/workshops to see what’s available and register today.
This portion of the Today’s Homeowner Radio Show is sponsored by The Home Depot.
One Cause of Water Heater Pipe Rust
The pipes have rusted on a homeowner’s seven-year-old electric water heater. She wants to know: “Is it OK to break this rust up and just clean the pipes, or do I need a new water heater?”
Cleaning the rusty pipes may provide a temporary solution, but it’s unlikely to address the underlying issue of corrosion.
In this case, the corrosion seems to be caused by electrolysis in the dielectric nipples on the hot and cold water pipes.
Dielectric nipples are short pipes with threads on both ends that prevent electrolysis in plumbing systems caused by different metals being in direct contact with each other.
However, even with the use of dielectric nipples, galvanic corrosion can still occur due to electrolysis. This happens when an electrolyte is present in the plumbing system, and there’s a difference in potential between the two metals that make up the dielectric nipple.
The more reactive metal in the nipple, typically steel or iron, will act as an anode and begin to corrode, while the less reactive metal, usually copper or brass, will act as a cathode and remain unaffected.
Have a plumber look at it to confirm if this is the cause of the corrosion.
Given the water heater is already seven years old, you might want to consider just replacing it. Generally, the life span of a water heater is about eight to 12 years.
If you do decide to replace your water heater, choose a model with anti-corrosion features like a glass-lined tank or sacrificial anode rod. Also, install a water treatment system to help prevent corrosion.
Read: How to Choose a Water Heater
Best New Products
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Simple Solutions
Kitchen Island Design Tip — If you’d like to install an island in your kitchen, but aren’t sure it’ll fit, try this quick trick:
Build a full-scale, three-dimensional island out of cardboard boxes. Stack and tape together boxes to replicate cabinets, then use large sheets of cardboard for the island top.
Now, you can very easily shift the mock island around the kitchen to check for the proper clearance spaces. And the cardboard top can be widened or shortened, as needed.
Multi-Purpose Skewers — Wooden skewers used for barbecuing are handy to have around the shop.
Use them to puncture the foil seals in tubes of caulk, sealant and adhesives. They’re also great for spreading glue into mortises, dowel holes, biscuit slots and other tight spaces.
And the skewers can be used to plug stripped holes in hinges.
Further Reading
Radio Show & Podcast: Send us your question!
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