Weekly Columns

Both current and archived weekly newspaper columns. The date of the column and a teaser of the column appears below. Click on the date to see the entire column.

April 25, 2016

            Dear Ken: I have a toilet problem that's pretty mysterious. It sounds like one of my toilets is flushing on its own, but I don't know which one since they are back-to-back.  The sound lasts 5 to 15 seconds, then stops. Can I fix this myself?  Carrie

April 18, 2016

                Dear Ken: I want to redecorate, but there is wallpaper in the way. Can I just texture and then paint over it. I dread the removal process. Jay

                You won’t be happy with the results. Both the texture spray and the paint contain water as a solvent, so in time the wallpaper will gradually release itself, and you’ll end up with unsightly bubbles all over the surface.

April 11, 2016

            Dear Ken: I can’t afford central air, but I would like to use my basement to help cool the upstairs as you suggested. How do I get this done? Marie

April 4, 2016

            Dear Ken: I bought a house with a finished basement that was never permitted with the city. I want to sell it now. Should I get a permit or just ignore it? Le Roy

March 28, 2016

            Dear Ken: We live in a fire prone area near the foothills. Should we get rid of our wood deck and replace it with a patio? Nani

March 21, 2016

            Dear Ken: Could you provide me some information about the potential for lead in my drinking water. I have an older house built in 1954. Colleen

            When it comes to dissolved lead, we’re luckier out here in the west compared to folks back east. Why? A large majority of our housing stock and infrastructure—interior piping, water mains and service lines—are newer and so...

March 14, 2016

            Dear Ken: I’m worried about slipping in the tub and need your advice on the best method to prevent it. Bob

March 7, 2016

     Dear Ken: I noticed rusty water in the tub, so I think it may be time to drain the water heater. Should I drain the tank and do I need to shut off the pilot when I do this? Joanie

    Rusty water can originate in places other than the water heater. A more likely source might be galvanized (steel) piping in the line to the tub. Rust and scale can accumulate on the inside of these pipes, particularly if the tub hasn't been used in a while.  I always...

February 29, 2016

      Dear Ken:  My daughter and her family have coughs and runny noses all the time.  Do you know of any kind of household "diseases" that could be causing this? Harry

February 22, 2016

     Dear Ken: You mentioned a snow rake in last week’s column. Can you tell me more about them? Kevin

     It’s simply a lightweight “tool” for pulling snow, leaves and other debris off your roof. The typical rake has a telescoping handle (21 feet is a popular length) while the business end is a solid plastic blade about two feet wide. I’ve seen them online for less than $40.