Do It Yourself with Help from Channel Home Centers

Frozen Pipes? Here are a few DIY tips and tricks to try out!

December 9, 2022 (revised March 13, 2023)

1) Locate the part of the pipe which is frozen and cover with heating pad or hot compresses.

2) Warm air from a hair dryer will give a slow continuous heat and should thaw out the pipe quickly.

3) In conditions of extreme cold, a sink waste pipe may freeze up. Pouring salt down the sink drain and placing hot compresses on the “U” bend beneath the sink should help to unfreeze the pipe.

4) For an outside pipe, wrap some heavy rags around the frozen part, and pour on boiling water.

How to fix a molding to your ceiling

February 3, 2023 (revised March 13, 2023)

Unsightly cracks often occur between wall and ceiling due to movement or settlement of the house. Molding can set off the sharpness of your room with a classical curvature and will certainly improve its appearance. It is easy to put up and relatively inexpensive to buy. It can suit any type of room and comes in various lengths. Here are the steps to installing molding in your home…

1) Measure and mark guidelines with a pencil along the walls and ceiling to the width of the molding.

2) Scratch the surface with a sharp knife between the guidelines to provide a grip for the adhesive.

3) Measure the ceiling for length. With a paper template angled at 45 degrees, saw a miter with a fine-toothed saw.

4) Start mixing the adhesive to the recommended consistency. Stir well.

5) With a trowel, apply the adhesive generously and with help push the molding into position.

6) Miter another portion of molding and butt up. Bond the miters and joints with surplus adhesive. Use a springy knife to spread adhesive at the miters.

7) Remove all traces of surplus adhesive around the molding with a wet brush. Allow to dry. Your molding is now ready for painting.