Getting Shellacked For over two thousand years, shellac was a product of choice for dyes, flooring, woodwork, furniture and as a sealer. Its use as a wood finish flourished in America from the 1600’s through the first half of the 20th century. The qualities making it so popular are ease
Rats with Bushy Tails I know most folks think squirrels are cute and adorable. Not me, I consider them to be no more than rats with bushy tales. Not only are they pesky, they’ve had trouble adjusting to city life. It seems they like to play with moving vehicles, giving
Getting Floored–To Grind or Not To Grind? Over the years I’ve come to the conclusion that we are murdering the wonderful hardwood floors in our homes. The warmth of hardwood floors in America has been popular since the Victorian era of the late 1800’s right up to new construction today.
Counter Top Reality In the mid-1970’s some clothing designer came up with the brilliant design for polyester leisure suits. For about five years everyone just had to have one. Why, you wouldn’t be groovy if you didn’t wear one to work, the disco or even church. We look back now
Old House Unveilings In the past, nothing epitomized neighbor helping neighbor more than a rural barn raising. Today, in our central city, historic neighborhoods, a modern day version of a barn raising is bringing neighbors together, old house unveilings. An old house unveiling is a coordinated event bringing neighbors together
Myths About Insulating Old House Walls I was recently chatting with a neighbor who asked, ” We love our 100 year old home. However, it sure is a drafty old place! We’re interested in blowing insulation into the walls, what do you think Bob?” Let me start by saying, if
