Andy's Newsletter
Summer 2008 - Page 2

Cookie's Place

Cookie has been working on getting hard water stains out of our bathtub. She tells me that it's good to have four legs for this job because it takes a lot of elbow grease.

A friend recommended using automotive rubbing compound with a buffer; Cookie tried using a teflon scrubbing pad. This works but is not fast. She also tried using a good old-fashioned steel wool soap pad, which works too and is easier on her sensitive nose than the smell of most cleaners. Always wear gloves on your feet, uh hands, for this job.

Daisy's Garden

Lilac Bushes

Is your lilac bush getting out of bounds? Domestic lilac bushes spread by runners. We have successfully started new bushes by separating the new bush sprout from the parent bush.

In the fall, dig up the baby bush including roots, and sever the runner with good pruners about 12 inches from the baby. Immediately put the baby bush in a bucket of air temperature water and carry it to its new location. Dig a hole larger than the root width and depth and place the new bush in the hole while holding it upright. Mix some topsoil with the dirt just dug out. Fill the bottom of the hole with about an inch of water then fill the hole with the dirt mix (covering the roots, of course). Put some weed-free mulch around the base of the new bush and water lightly.

Keep A Record of Improvements

Keep a record of major improvements, such as new kitchen cabinets, new heating and central air, new roof, etc. that add to the value of your house or a rental property. Take pictures too. You will have this information when you sell. You can also use this information to prove property value if a disaster should occur.

www.oldhousepreservation.com------Our Old House Website