[Tips] week of 8-13-01

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Live Far Away from Grandchildren? If you don't have e-mail capability, you can communicate by video or cassette tape. Simply record a story, sing a song or just talk. Your grandchild will be delighted to hear your voice.

-- Anonymous, August 13, 2001

Answers

Pulling The Plug On Hole Saws

The hole saw is commonly used to bore holes such as the ones required for installing a latch set or dead bolt. The down side of this saw is getting the wood plug out of it when the job is complete. The first encounter with this dilemma usually results in burned fingers; that bit gets pretty hot while boring the hole. Even when the bit has cooled off it's often a struggle to get the plug out of the bite.

Don't despair! Relief is in sight! There is a new tool dedicated to pulling these plugs. This simple tool resembles small outside calipers with sharp points that grab the plug through the slots in the side of the bit.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, August 13, 2001


Baked-On Gunk In spite of your best efforts, casserole dishes do get that baked-on residue encrusted on the inside. To remove it, sprinkle a bit of automatic dishwasher detergent in the dish. Then fill with hot water and stir to dissolve. Let it sit overnight. Cleanup the next day will be easier. Play Sets

It's hard not to notice the proliferation of kids' play sets over the last few years. Things have gone well past an old tire hanging from the shade tree. If you're shopping for a play set, here are some things to take into consideration.

Most play sets are of wood construction, typically pine or cedar. Pine comes in several grades, but all are usually pressure treated. Better grades cost more, split and twist less. Cedar is naturally decay resistant so treating isn't necessary, but plan on paying a premium for this premium product. Top-of-the-line play sets are made of composite decking materials that eliminate the chance of splinters. Play sets should be assembled with rust-resistant hardware -- and coated chains for the swings are a great feature. Finally, don't forget to consider the age and quantity of children who'll be enjoying this state-of-the-art play set.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, August 14, 2001


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