How to Fix a Patio Roof

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Fix your Patio Roof.

Fix your Patio Roof.

One of the most common problems you'll come across in your home improvement is rust. Rust seems to be everywhere, unless you know how to prevent it and how to get rid of it. Oftentimes, the rust will show up in the places you ignore the most - areas like the patio roof, where rust is frequently an issue do-it-yourselfers have to address. So how can you repair your patio roof without doing damage to the patio?

If you're going to be up on your patio roof, you need to address some basics thanks to the theory of gravity.
First, you'll need to make sure that your ladder leading up to the roof is secure - have someone else hold it for you to make sure. You'll also want to tread carefully, knowing that your weight is not insignificant and can pose a risk if you're dealing with a particularly weak roof. The higher your roof is, the higher your risks are, so be prepared.

If your patio roof is infected with rust, then you're going to want to clean the roof off as much as possible before you begin work. Brush and sweep away debris, leaves, and other unwelcome contaminants that would get in the way of your tools and the rust on your patio roof. You'll want the roof to be as clean as possible when you begin your work so that nothing interferes later on.

Next, you'll want to use a pressure washer to help you scrape off rust and mildew from the roof. A mixture of three parts water to one part chlorine bleach can be a very effect cleaner - just make sure you don't get it in your eyes or near anyone else, for that matter. This should be a very effective cleaning that will help remove any excess materials you don't want on your roof, paving the way for a smooth foundation. If any parts are still stubborn, you'll want to use sandpaper to actually widdle away at the rust.

Applying a roof sealant will help protect against any holes that might have been brought about by the rust, so apply a coat of sealant next, being careful to make it even. Let this sit and dry for a long time. In order to make sure that the roof is dry, wait for a clear weather report with high pressure systems.

After you've completed the repairs on your roof, be sure to visit it occasionally, checking on the progress of any rust and making sure there are no leaks or potential holes developing. The better prepared you are, the less you'll have to deal with these problems in the future.

Photo Credits: bossco

Originally posted 2009-08-06 03:04:01.

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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 19, 2010 in Handyman, How to Fix, Patio

How to Fix Household Problems Without Damaging Your Eyes

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Fix Household Problems

Fix Household Problems

As the son of an optometrist, let me tell you: it's not uncommon at all for people to get things stuck in their eyes. Some injuries are worst than others, but one thing that most of them have in common is that they're preventable. Simply wearing goggles alone - even when tackling a problem you don't think requires them - can go a long way toward preventing eye damage.

Since our eyes are so important to us - you're using them to read this right now - you have to make sure that whatever project or repair you're undertaking around the house, that you protect your eyes. Here's a quick guide for doing just that.

The first thing to do and the most obvious is to buy a pair of safety goggles. These goggles should adequately wrap around your eyes and give you plenty of clear viewing. Some safety glasses or goggles can simply be attached like a pair of sunglasses, while others can be tightened around your full head. It's usually recommended that you have a pair of goggles that won't come off of your head without a fight - if you find yourself unable to use your arms to put your goggles back on, your eyes can become vulnerable again.

Next, you'll want to remember that it's best to avoid rubbing your eyes whenever you're handling a chemical of some sort. If you've ever touched a particularly hot pepper and then touched your eyes, you know exactly how uncomfortable it can be to get the wrong chemical in your eyes. So make sure that your hands are clean and thoroughly washed before you start rubbing your eyes again - and, in general, it's best to avoid rubbing them all together.

Taking care of your eyes is important because your eyesight is one of only five senses. Our eyes are particularly sensitive, which usually gives us the instinct to protect them naturally, but you'll want to bring in your own level-headed thinking to a home improvement situation. Even if you don't think that your eyes are at risk, a sudden blow of dust or sand can change your mind very quickly. If your task puts your eyes at risk to be exposed to chemicals or debris, it's best to wear safety goggles or glasses as a measure of eye injury prevention.

Photo Credits: One-Fat-Man

Originally posted 2009-10-20 03:57:15.

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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 10, 2010 in Handyman, House, How to Fix