Maintenance Q & A
by Various Authors
Q. What is the best way to maintain lock
systems?
A. Maintaining a lock system is quite easy. Because
rain and dirt accumulate inside locks, it is always
important to lubricate them at least twice a year.
I have found that Tri Flow works very well. It keeps
your lock clean and functioning properly. Never force
a key into the keyway. This will usually lead to problems
down the road. A quick shot of lubricant can usually
solve this problem. Lastly, never use your key as a
door pull. Remove the key before opening the door.
– Peter Badertscher
Q. What are common problems associated with retrofit window inserts?
A. When a building is built, windows are intended to be integrated with the building paper along with metal flashings to provide the primary waterproof system for the wall. The exterior finish (stucco, wood, vinyl, brick, etc.) is a secondary weather resistant barrier applied over this more fragile primary waterproof system. It is the primary waterproof system that really keeps the water out of the building wall cavity to prevent damage to the interior finishes, dry rot in the framing, or mold within the cavity.
When
windows become outdated and worn out, retrofit window
installation can indeed save money over removing and
replacing the windows and re-integrating new windows
back into the primary waterproof system. Removing and
replacing the exterior finish material escalates the
costs of replacement. The risk involved with installing
retrofit windows into existing window openings is that
most utilize a wide frame flange that is only caulked
to the secondary weather resistant barrier. All caulking
fails with time. If the existing windows have a history
of leaks, retrofit windows will only cover up your problem. Installing new
windows integrated with the building paper behind the exterior finishes is
your best long-term solution.
When considering retrofit windows, consider past leak history (especially
window bays in multistory buildings), weather exposure (wind, sun and rain
direction), height of your building (windows have wind load ratings) and the
condition of your exterior wall finish before making a decision. The immediate
gratification of saving money and having new retrofit windows soon evaporates
when the first windy storm of the season hits and the phone starts ringing!
– Steve Saarman
Q. I just put in a new carpet and have some spots on it. How do I get rid of these without calling a carpet cleaning service?
A. The best
and safest way to remove a spot from a new carpet is
with a Chem-Dry professional strength spotter. This
non-toxic product comes in an easy-to-use spray can.
Have you ever removed a spot with carpet cleaner and
found that you are perpetually removing the same spot
over and over? That is due to the soap found in most
carpet-cleaner products. Unlike other products found
in stores, commonly labeled “carpet cleaner,” Chem-Dry
leaves no residue. It has a neutral pH, so it will
not brown or yellow the carpet. Chem-Dry products work
on the most stubborn carpet stains. If the product does not remove the spot,
then it is probably time to send in a professional.
– Mike Rivera
The opinions expressed in this article are those of
the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint
of the SFAA or the San Francisco Apartment Magazine.
Consult the advice of a specialist for any
specific problem. Peter Badertscher is with Warman Security, 415-775-8513. Steve
Saarman is with Saarman Construction, Ltd., 415-749-2700 x 229. Mike Rivera is
with North American Chem-Dry,
415-285-3330. Copyright © 2004. All rights reserved.