Archive By Author - Robert Lamoureux
Robert Lamoureux: To tree or not to tree: That is the question
Hello Mr. Lamoureux, I've got a couple of questions about my home and would appreciate any help you could give. First, I've got our front door painted with oil paint, and want to paint it again with an oil based color. The only problem is that this door gets a large amount of sunshine and the color fades. I like the sheen look when it first goes on. Is there a particular ...
Robert Lamoureux: Shower enclosures are hard to remove
Hello Mr. Lamoureux, I have a shower enclosure, which is one single piece including the tub, three walls and doors. There was a leak between my closet and the shower. When they opened that wall to make the repair, we noticed there was mold growing on the studs and on the inside of the enclosure. I do not just want it cleaned, I want everything replaced! I've measured the enclosure every possible way and it ...
Robert Lamoureux: Proper way to clean sidewalks, driveways
Hello Robert, I'm a long time reader with a first time question. What would you recommend for concrete and brick driveway and sidewalk cleaning? I'd be interested in how to clean some rust stains and prevent from staining again. Is acid safe to use? Sincerely, Jeff B. Hi Jeff, Acid is only as safe as the precautions you take when using it. Some people think just because muriatic acid is used for swimming pools ...
Robert Lamoureux: Get to the root of the issue for proper fix
Hi Robert, We have underground parking and there is water dripping from the ceiling. I measured out exactly where this leak was and found that there was a root that has lifted the concrete up above. Do you think we can just seal this root with asphalt, or should the root be removed? Paul W. Hi Paul, I would recommend that you first perform a water test to make sure that this is the source ...
Inspect for termites before creating play structure
Hi Robert, We have a huge trellis in the back yard made from 6x6 supports and 2x8 span beams... but it's probably more than 15 years old and we were told that it's got termites in it when we moved into this house 7 years ago... we were told to expect to replace the whole thing in about 5 years. It's still strong it seems and I'd like to attach a few climbing accessories ...
Robert Lamoureux: HOA is off base on rotten roof
Mr. Lamoureux, I have got a big problem with my condominium complex. We had a leak in our upstairs bedroom ceiling. They sent some people out to take a look at it and then I get a bill for $4,800 for damages we caused to our roof. We have an air conditioner/heater unit up on the roof with a leaking condensation line that had rotted the roof instead of channeling down into the gutter. Are ...
Robert Lamoureux: On the hook for permit issues?
Hi Robert, We enjoy reading your very informative column. In 2006 we hired a local, reputable and licensed contractor for a major remodel of our home. Interior work included the addition of electrical outlets, wiring for ceiling fans, installation of an electric whirlpool bathtub (in a bathroom previously containing only a shower unit), removal of a non-load-bearing interior wall and installation of new doors and windows throughout. Outside, electrical light fixtures were installed onto our ...
Robert Lamoureux: Low water pressure vexes HOA residents
Hello Mr. Lamoureux, We live in an HOA and our water pressure is very low. We had a plumber come out and he said that, "The city is bringing it in at 55 pounds of pressure which should be fine." I don't know if this is high or low, but our shower pressure, especially upstairs is very, very low. He also said some people take off the prv and this would help with the pressure. ...
Robert Lamoureux: Low NOx means less hot water
Hi Robert, I hope you can help answer some questions I have about water heaters. My water heater sprung a leak about a month ago, so we had it replaced. The plumbing company put in a new Bradford White unit model # U45036FRN Ultra Low Nox series 50-gallon 40,000 BTU's. I had a unit before - also a 50-gallon. The problem I have with this new unit is after two people in our house take ...
Robert Lamoureux: Adding a T to a gas line reduces flow
Robert, I want to replace an electric range with gas but have to have a gas line installed. I have estimates from two plumbers. One would run the line from the garage where the main line enters from the meter, the other would T-off the one inch line from the furnace, which is in the house. I have been told T-ing off from furnace would cut down gas flow. Also, I have called the gas ...
Robert Lamoureaux: Clogs in pool filter lines can be trouble
Hi Robert, This is the first time I've written to you and I need help! I think I have a problem with my pool. The return jets on the pool are emitting hardly any water; the pressure is very low and my equipment is working very hard to keep up; the psi is always at 45 and it works loudly. This has not always been the case. Last summer, I replaced the entire skimmer, cleaned ...
Robert Lamoureux: Staining concrete is serious business
Mr. Lamoureux, Several years ago we had a concrete hardscape installed, stamped and colored (reddish) in a random stone pattern. Contrary to my wishes, the contractor did not mix the color in the truck but put it on top of the wet concrete. After allowing the concrete to cure he then came back and sealed it. About a year and a half later we had him come back and recolor and reseal the hardscape. The ...
Robert Lamoureux: The proper way to drain your water heater
Hello Robert, Some time ago I drained my hot water heater, as suggested by a plumber. After following his instructions to do this annually for about 8-10 minutes each time, I now have a loud gurgling hot water heater almost every time someone turns on water in the house. To me it sounds like air in the system. Would you please let me know how to eliminate the gurgling sound (air in the tank?) and ...
Robert Lamoureux: Replacing toilets? Don't forget to turn off the water
Robert, My husband is planning to replace the toilets in our house, which was built here in Valencia about 1969. Is there anything we need to do in preparation or anything we need to anticipate in replacing the toilets? Maureen W. Hi Maureen, First of all, valve down the house - turn off all of the water. Replace angle stops with the quarter-turn style that are sweated onto the line - not threaded on with ...
Robert Lamoureux: Oil base or latex? Know before painting
Mr. Lamoureux, Hi. This is the first time I've written in. I have a front door that has become very dull. It has lost its sheen. I bought some latex paint, but then started thinking that maybe there was oil base paint on the door originally. They said I can't put latex paint on top of oil base. Is that true? And, how would I tell if there is oil base paint on there now? ...
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