Q–I buy better-quality brushes for use with enamels and varnishes, and these are too expensive to just throw away after each use. However, I never seem to get them fully clean before storing so that the bristles are often stiff and partially unusable when I go to use the brush again. Can you offer some suggestions for proper cleaning after using brushes with a solvent-thinned enamel or varnish?
A–Rub out as much of the paint or varnish as you can by wiping the bristles repeatedly across a stack of old newspaper, tearing off the top sheet to expose a dry one as each sheet is saturated. Then wash in several rinses of the appropriate solvent, using only an inch or two of solvent each time. When the solvent comes out almost clear, rinse the bristles in a warm detergent solution, then spin the brush dry by twirling the handle between the palms of your hands. To avoid spattering everything around you as you twirl the brush, hold it inside a large bag or other container. When it’s dry, comb the bristles flat and wrap them with brown paper to help the brush hold its shape.
Q–Our cellar floods after every heavy rainfall, even though we have a sump pump.The pump actually starts pumping the water out within a few hours. We have been told that the natural drainage around the outside of our house is not great. Do you have any idea what we can do about this problem?
A–To improve drainage around the outside of your house, make certain gutters and downspouts do not empty right next to the foundation. Extend the bottom end of each spout out several feet and, if possible, regrade the soil around the foundation so that it slopes away on all sides. It may also be necessary to install a drainage system around the inside or outside of your basement footings. Outside drainage would involve excavating around the footings to install “drain tiles” (perforated plastic pipe). A less expensive solution would be to install a drainage system inside–around the perimeter of your basement floor, next to the walls.
Q–I installed a brick walk leading to my front door a couple of years ago. It looks nice, but the walk is now quite slippery when wet. Any idea what we can do about this dangerous condition?
A–It sounds as though there is moss or algae growing on these bricks, and this is what is making them slippery. If so, you should be able to get rid of the moss by washing the bricks with a mildewcide (sold in garden supply and swimming pool supply outlets) or washing with a solution of one part fresh Clorox and four parts water. Mop on, allow to soak for about 10 minutes, then rinse off with lots of water. The runoff may be hazardous to plant life, so take proper precautions.
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Have a question about home repair problems? Write to Bernard Gladstone in care of Your Place, Chicago Tribune, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill. 60611. Questions of general interest will be answered in future columns. Sorry, letters cannot be answered personally.
