Light Switch Cover Replacement

Article 8

That Old House Meets This New Woman 

by P.K. Costa

Light Switch Plate Cover Replacement

Sometimes a home just needs that little touch of cozy to make it feel like a home. And it's certainly no secret that like a man in his man cave, a woman loves making a home space feel comfortable, and will inevitably add a little bit of herself in some form or another (whether artistic or not)--and aside from donning a window with lace curtains or hanging a few paintings and photographs--light switch covers have become the new art. 

These days you can add a little style to almost everything--and when I first approached the light switch isle in the hardware store I felt like I was in an art gallery trying to pick out a small frame--apparently you can almost choose any style from a grape scene for the wine connoisseur to stone or copper for the matching of hardware throughout the rest of the home. Basically, your choices are endless and I'm sure online your choice styles are extended even further. I chose a little elegance and old-world style to match some drapery rods I wanted to install above a double set of windows, so I knew what I was looking for.  

It's true that replacement of light switch covers is not a necessary, but it sure is a quick fix to sprucing up a place if you don't plan on going the crown moulding route anytime soon, or, if you just plan on touching up a room that you are trying to rent out or sell. Or, as in my case--just wanting to add a touch of me in the room. (I must admit I like bling.) If I'm not mistaken, you can even paint your own design on light switch covers (I'll have to do the research on that one, actually as I know someone who is going to ask me *smiles*). But for now, I am switching out a few plain old off-white light switch covers:

Light switch cover plates (single, or double; as well as
switches and outlets) are actually fairly easy to replace
and come in various styles and colors (such as white, or
off-white as shown above) for just a few dollars, and come
in various decorative styles (as shown below)

There are basically four screws that need to be undone, and in this case, there are switches that are an off-white (more yellow-ish) color that will match the new plate, so I don't have to switch out the entire switch beneath, although if you do, be sure to turn off the power before re-wiring the new switch in place (if you don't feel comfortable doing this, definitely call an electrician) and then add your new switch plate cover. Remember, when replacing outlet covers, the outlets show through the outlet covers so choose to match the old outlet, or, be sure to pick up outlet replacements as well.

Decorative light switch plate cover replacement (for just
a few dollars) is like art on the walls for a home or rental

If replacing switches in dining rooms or areas with fans, etc. --this would also be the time to add a dimmer switch, or a new type of switch--there are all sorts of varieties and types out there, so do your homework and do check on the type of wiring you have. If you are in an older style home, you may not have updated wiring and would need an expert's advice anyway before attempting to modify any wiring in the home (even light switches) as it can be very dangerous (not to mention you can end up giving yourself a little shock). The extent of my modifications are with re-wiring lamps, but not with outlets--that's when I call an electrician, or one of my brothers :)

Home Security "Zen" Style, at a Reasonable Price

Article 7

That Old House Meets This New Woman 

by P.K. Costa


With crime at an all-time hight, home security seems to be at the forefront of everyone's mind 
(so how about a little security, and "Zen" some?) 
The home has always been people's sanctuary--a place to go after work, or after they've been out in the chaotic world--their own space, their own home sweet home. Safe, secure and free from crime and the crazy people roaming aimlessly.

These days however the focus is on how to secure a home and also keep it a peaceful place with some balance (since securing a home can actually be frightening to some when just the sight of security equipment can be a constant reminder of the need for the added security in the first place). With the increased crime, increase in law enforcement layoffs --which is ridiculous -- everyone should write their city council and mayor's office by the way). So, how does one create a more peaceful surrounding, a feeling of Zen if you will, in spite of the increased security?

There are a few things people can do if they can't afford major security systems (such as security gates surrounding the property, alarm systems and cameras)--they can look into security deterrents. Some of the deterrents can be things like window and door locks (including rods in the windows), chains on all doors, parking in garage (instead of using it for storage) and using the garage entrance. Motion detector/sensor lights are another great security system as it shines a spotlight on any intruder, scaring them away instantly, and they can be installed rather inexpensively (we can cover that in a future post).

There are also additional things homeowners and renters can do to increase the secure feeling inside the home, when home alone, that can help with feeling safe and secure (which is half the battle of "Zen" -- which in turn creates a balance. And for an extremely reasonable price.

Remember the movie, Conspiracy Theory? In the movie, Jerry Fletcher (played by Mel Gibson) liked to use an empty bottle which he balanced upside down on the doorknob of his apartment, knowing that if someone tried to turn the handle from the outside, it would fall and break on the ground -- which he could hear from anywhere in the apartment (loud enough to awaken someone if they were sleeping) -- a method also used by Alice Sutton (played by Julia Roberts) so she could try to get some sleep one night (after many sleepless nights). (Great movie by the way if you haven't seen it.) This may not work for those with young children or pets, however, the point being that there are many methods to use for reasonable security (or feeling secure) if you don't have $3,500 to fork out for a good system, or just can't find $45 a month in your budget for monitored security system (again, covered later in a future blog).

A suggestion I received was wind chimes, and they can be hung on doors, windows, gates -- pretty much anywhere. The idea behind these is that if hung on on a door, every time it's opened it's a sound easily recognized. There are so many wind chimes out there, decorative, plain, simple--and for only a few dollars. I would definitely choose wisely for different areas (such as a loud one for an area in the backyard, not close to a neighbor's window (as long as you liked them *laugh*) -- but definitely a light, nice sounding one for the front door but one you can hear.

Wind chimes on the back of a door for
a little Zen and added security

Other areas to hang wind chimes is the vertical blinds that cover any window (keeping in mind that we aren't trying to stop a professional--if they really want in, unfortunately they will find a way in)--the idea is to merely find ways to deter the curious, and warn homeowners who may be home alone, but more importantly, create a feeling of Zen in what is supposed to be a safe environment. Wind chimes have a sound that is pleasing and calming, which is the whole idea behind Zen.

Chimes in the blinds are another way to add a little extra security, but more
importantly, a feeling of Zen, to your home or rental unit when living alone

Of course "wild" neighborhood animals can set off wind chimes easily, as can the wind--but that's also another beauty about using wind chimes--it's a sound you (and usually neighbors) can tolerate and it's a peaceful sound. When it's ringing hard and out of tune, you'll know it. This is where security motion lights would be an added help and allow you to see who or what is outside that is setting the chimes off -- and save you from getting up every time you hear a noise. (Just please, don't go calling the authorities every time you hear a chime!)

Here's to a safe and Zen feeling at home :)

Vertical Blind Repair

Article 6
That Old House Meets This New Woman 
by P.K. Costa


Vertical Blind Repair and Replacement (including clips)

It is common for vertical blinds to break (they seem to easily fall out of the clasp that holds them in place at the top) and luckily there are clips that you can purchase that will slip on to the end of the vertical blinds and allow you to insert the vertical blind back in place. 

On rare occasions there will however be those blinds that get so badly damaged that sometimes even a replacement clip won't do the trick. You can always try turning the vertical blind upside down and inserting the clip on the other end (it doesn't matter that there isn't a hole) as it will insert into the unit at the top that holds all of the vertical blinds with the new clip. 

Vertical blind clips are a cinch to add to your blinds (top or bottom of blind)
and can sometimes save you from having to replace your entire vertical blind.
(Vertical blinds are also replaceable by having new ones cut to fit.

If that doesn't work however, you may have to go to a blind and drapery shop and have a new vertical blind custom cut (which is really not all that expensive) and replace the entire blind panel instead. You can call around to see who can do that for you, but if you're in San Jose there are a few shops locally that will cut you a strip (just be sure to measure correctly), or better yet -- take the broken blind to the shop with you and have them cut to fit exact. (In fact, LaVoie Window Coverings on San Carlos in San Jose should be able to help you out and they are very reasonable.)

Otherwise, if the blind is just cracked you can pick up a package of vertical blind clips and insert a clip at the top of the blind (or, if it is so badly ripped at one end, you can turn the blind upside down and insert the clip at the other end of the blind, and then insert that end into the pull unit mechanism) and there you have it--a newly repaired set of blinds. You have your balance of light and privacy and all is right with the world once again.

Blind clips are a lifesaver for older
homes or rentals and slip right in!

Blind clips are really easy to install (although quite honestly they are a little difficult to push on as once they are on they are meant to stay on so be careful that you have them centered before pushing down; also be careful not to crack your blinds when putting the clips on--your blinds are much more fragile than you realize).

Let there be light (or no light)! 

Privacy and Peace of Mind

Article 5
That Old House Meets This New Woman
by P.K. Costa

 
Solution for privacy (saving peace of mind) — at a very reasonable
There comes a time when renting causes privacy issues, whether it be noise, the smell of cigarette smoke that creeps through a window, or it can just be in your own home sweet home where there's just that one window situated just so that by design flaw allows your neighbor to peer in and unintentionally invade your privacy—and it's not like you can do anything about it, after all, sometimes you're in a neighborhood where everyone is dealing with the same issue. Or, perhaps you're in an older home where you just have a one-of-a-kind window you want to do something with, perhaps maximize light without covering it up. Luckily architects are getting much better, and so are the many solutions out there for such window issues, be it a bathroom, kitchen, living room or even bedroom window.

There are plenty of things you can do to maintain your privacy, especially if you're friendly with your neighbors :)  There's the usual fence and divide, where neighbors share the expense of building a tall fence (as tall as county permits), or adding lattice or something decorative on top of an existing fence. Unless you're in a townhouse or condominium complex that has an Homeowner's Association (HOA) and there are CC&R's to deal with, and then quite possibly discussions will need to be had with the HOA, property manager or landlord.

Other options include things like awnings, or shutters (some are actually pretty decorative these days), and sometimes you can get quite creative with window and shadow boxes (especially if you know a contractor who is looking for a side job). There is also the less expensive and more natural approach such as with a planter box directly below the window with a trellis sticking up out of it (high enough to cover most of the window, even one or two thin, decorative lattice pieces), and you can plant a climbing vine to climb up the trellis that will soon block the window (the trellis or lattice piece does most of the blocking actually; the vines are more decorative). 

You can also hang trellis down from the roof eaves on hooks and then grow a vine up from the planter box that way, or from a window box if up on a second story. (There are several vine options but a Morning Glory might be a great vine to do this with as it grows like crazy year-round, grows well in pots, and has beautiful blooms.) Thank you to Mikey for this suggestion :)

You can also spend some of your savings and replace the windows with some frosted or decorative glass and make your own permanent privacy; or cover the existing windows with window treatments, whether it be sheer panels and then lace or some sort of other decorative drapes or curtains, depending on what look you're after (and how much light you want coming in). Unfortunately, this cuts out on some good natural light with any type of window covering, even mini blinds.

Or, you can go one of the routes I chose for a fairly small window that faced directly into a neighbor's: Decorative (cling-on) window covering. It really does look pretty decent for being a cover, and I chose the stained glass look for a more realistic look and additional privacy. (I purchased the two-sheet kit at Home Depot for about $20.00)

Low-cost decorative window (cling-on) is a great solution for that unfortunate
"privacy" issue so many have to deal with in some home designs and  rental units

You can cut it to fit, and I've actually used this a few times already. The first time was on a larger window temporarily until proper window treatments could be found; the second time for these windows (much smaller). I still pull down the blinds over them at night (not that you can see through them) but during the day they provide enough light to see, and also provide complete privacy.


I also purchased a frosted glass look for another window to provide more privacy as I have lace curtains I want to hang there and want as much light coming in as possible for work, but still want to maintain as much privacy as possible. Remember, in rentals you don't want to spend a lot of money, but you want to maximize every penny.


Enjoy your privacy, light and your peace of mind :)

Weather Stripping Replacement

Article 4
That Old House Meets This New Woman
by P.K. Costa

Weather Stripping Replacement on Door Frame

Another high priority item on the list for winter preparation is weather stripping replacement (or adding it if you don't have it). Weather stripping is a rubber or PVC material that lines not just doors and windows of houses, but also things like refrigerators and freezers, and cars. Stripping protects against drafts from heat and cold, and believe it or not, it can actually assist as a sound barrier. 

There are different types of weather stripping so depending on what you're looking for check with your Lowe's, Home Depot, OSH or favorite hardware store expert for information, or you can take in a piece of what you're replacing. The best way to approach a trip to the hardware store is to make a list of what you need before going in otherwise if you're anything like me you'll end up spending an hour roaming isles to see what's new and you'll end up picking up a few new cool gadgets and goodies you didn't intend on purchasing :)

Take a walkthrough and measure any windows and doors that need weather stripping, or replacement pieces (be sure to note color). That's how I started and I ended up just removing the old stripping while I was at it (it gave me an idea of what I was up against with nail and staple removal, actually.) 

Old gray weather stripping just pulls right off
(with some of the nails and staples, but not all

Sometimes you may not like what you have and you'll want to replace with something more durable (such as what I was doing with replacing the gray felt for white rubber, as shown above) or aesthetically pleasing, so again check with someone who knows what will work best for the area you are needing it for.

Weather stripping actually comes in a variety of styles and colors from PVC rubber to chemical resistant and it even comes in rainbow colors like pink and yellow however those are usually more for commercial use so no worries on trying to figure out what you need—most homeowners go with white or gray and thankfully U.S. packaging is self-explanatory. It's when you start ordering online that it can get confusing (and usually contractors do that for large jobs to order in bulk).  Remember, make a list and measure – and if you'd like, take a photo of what you're replacing (whether it be refrigerator, window, door, etc.) and take it with you and you can always ask for assistance.

Depending on the quality, size, thickness, length, etc. you may need extra items for this job, such as staples or adhesive (there is a 3M Contact Spray for weather stripping; thank you Robert, for that reminder *smiles*). 

I used the following tools for this job: Hammer (toe), standard (flat) screwdriver to leverage nails when the hammer toe won't fit into the space, kitchen pairing knife (great toolbox item as it fits under those tiny nail heads that hammer toes cannot, but you can't use to leverage nails out as the tip will break), scissors, and a staple gun (another woman's best friend for the toolbox). The old stripping had a lot of nails and staples so it took about 45 minutes to remove all of them and prepare/clean the surface. 

Pull it: Pliers are sometimes needed
to pull those pesky smaller nails out

Get a grip: Screwdrivers are needed for leverage
when a hammer toe won't work and pliers
can't get a grip on the nail head

   

When I measured the door frame it was 3 ft. across and a little over 6' tall (about 79") and since the stripping only goes on three sides (about 15 feet) I only needed one package of stripping. I will be splitting it in half anyway so it allows me to do a second door or something else.

Weather stripping is self-adhesive and attaches very easily, the spray or staples will help keep it in place. Just remember to cut at an angle in the corners so they line up (and look professional) and take your time to have straight lines and stick as you go. (Don't stretch while applying, and be careful to measure before cutting so you don't end up with a several pieces.)

The pairing knife came in handy for the edges and corners as well (and believe it or not one of my favorite tools is a long, variegated-edged knife for gardening (the kind that never needs sharpening)—it chops and cuts back bushes and branches and all sorts of things in the yard that clippers just can't) –so again, just another tip and one of those must haves for a woman's (or any) tool box (especially for someone who doesn't have much strength).

Weather stripping corner completed (tiny space
left to show how corner is cut to fit) can stretch a
little to fit but don't stretch to put along door frame

Add staples where needed (if contact spray not used) and you have just applied weather stripping to the frame of your door. Hopefully now your space will be draft-free and a little more sound-proof. Enjoy the cooler summers and warmer winters and until next time... have you had your smile today? :)

Blind Pull Cord Knob Repair

Article 3

That Old House Meets This New Woman

by P.K. Costa

Blind Pull Cord Knob Replacement

Blind Pull Cord Knobs are notorious for getting damaged or getting lost altogether -- especially in rentals or homes where there are kids or pets. Before you know it the cat is playing with it in the kitchen or little Joey is using it as cargo on the back of one of his trains. The pull cord knobs and vertical blind clips are much easier to replace than people think, and very easily applied by pretty much anyone :)  

Pull cord knobs come in various shapes and
sizes (and pull apart fairly easily) for assembly
and attachment to the end of the mini blind pull cord

In the past I've seen some pretty adorable makeshift pull cord knobs -- from Matchbox cars, forks, and yes folks, even a rock. Thankfully they are fairly simple to replace so there's really no need to have a makeshift one  (unless of course you enjoy the conversation piece). 

There are actually decorative pull cord knobs available should you wish to make a statement (such as beads, ceramic and wooden knobs, etc.) so if that's your desire I'm sure you can find those at your favorite local hardware store, Lowe's, Orchard Supply Hardware, Home Depot, or the downtown blind and drapery shop. 

Going decorative is a great little addition for a higher-end rental and it's probably only about $5 or so (depending on where you go or if you find it on sale online somewhere) so it's always a good idea to do your homework first. 

Pull cord knob once installed works great (this one is for a rental, and usually
hidden so it didn't matter that it was plastic and not decorative or fancy)

If it is a rental and you don't want to put the money into something such as blind pull knobs and vertical blinds, plastic replacement knobs and clips are more practical and work just fine--plus they last a long time if you take care of them (not to mention they are cost effective).

Door Sweep Replacement

Article 2

That Old House Meets This New Woman

by P.K. Costa

It's that time of year again...

...when people want to prepare for winter and one of the worries is cold air that tends to creep through every crack and crevice of older (and sometimes even newer) homes. Now is a great time to prepare for the colder months ahead and do some maintenance and repair to ensure warmth and coziness.

Some of the things I will be covering in the next month will be door sweep replacement, blind and pull cord knobs, switch plates, lights, weather stripping, thresholds, filters, calking, etc. All sorts of fun stuff :)  Oh yes, and even a shelf (which is a long overdue project I've been meaning to do for the new microwave that no longer fits on the now-short shelf *smiles*)  

Door Sweep Replacement

Door sweep replacement is actually fairly simple, depending on the type of door you have. You may be lucky and have a door that was properly installed and fits nice and snug -- and all you may need is weather stripping around the door frame (be sure to check back in a few weeks for the weather stripping post). You may wish to add a kick guard at the bottom of the door to protect your door--they vary in price depending on what you're looking for (solid brass can cost up to a few hundred dollars) where as a simple protection guard can be much less. It really all depends on what you're trying to accomplish and whether or not this is for your home or for a rental unit.

Before you run to Lowe's to pick up a door sweep replacement, take a look at what you have to see if you have a metal sweep guard that you can re-use (that's what I did on the door I used for this blog). I was also able to purchase a standard self-adhesive sweep (I actually chose white because it matched the door, which is probably against some people's better judgment *smiles*) and it only cost me a few dollars. I re-used the old metal sweep guard (as you can see below), and just pulled off the old gray sweep that may have actually been a one-piece set. The old gray sweep was torn, (again as you can see in the photo below at the right).

The door sweep guard can be re-used (unscrews at bottom of the
door) and new self-adhesive sweep can be replaced (white or gray)

The new sweep replacement did not have holes for the screws, so I just adhered it to the door (centering it, making sure it was exactly where I wanted it, (I only had to cut off an inch) and the adhesive was nice that it kept it in place for me. I placed the old metal sweep guard over it and then I first used one of the old screws to mark holes where I needed them to be; and then I used a roofing nail (shown below) and hammered that slightly through the metal sweep guard and new white sweep replacement now adhered to door until it hit the wood to mark where I was going to replace the sweep guard. 

New sweep may not have pre-punched holes, so using
a roofing nail (or screwdriver) is great for punching holes
so the old screws can be used to install the sweep (using
the old sweep guard to save money). Total cost less than $3

I made sure the old metal sweep guard was in place (and even) and just used the old screws and a screwdriver (no need for a drill, unless you have a tiny drill) and there you have it... it looks great. Now, the cold air won't come in at night and I won't have to worry about a draft (some may want a draft beer after this however). Overall it probably only took about 15 - 20 minutes and cost just under $3.