We are buying a 1922 stick built home.  In the back two bedrooms the walls are tongue and groove cedar planks.  My question is if we can remove the planks and reuse them as flooring else where in the house??
Thank you
Catie

 

Catie,

I certainly encourage all forms of recycling.  We should strive to make the most of our limited resources, and avoid waste wherever we can.

Generally, the most common forms of cedar, such as Eastern Red Cedar, may be used as flooring material.  Its color variation and grain patterns make it an interesting finish choice.

You should consider a few things regarding such

Mason,

Would you recommend cork flooring for a kitchen?

Brenda G. Dallas, TX

Dang, Brenda, I didn’t know our blog went all the way to the Lone Star State! Welcome, and know that I love your question!

There are SO many choices for flooring these days. Kitchens, obviously, have some very special needs in terms of durability, maintenance, clean-up, comfort, and of course, STYLE! The “best” floor for your kitchen should be based on which of these considerations you personally find most important. Porcelain tile is durable and sanitary, but not so comfortable for long periods of standing. Wood is

So last Saturday... I find myself flat on my back in the yard, seeing stars like Wiley Coyote.  Trusty (Acme) power washer overturned by my side.

The remainder of the week, I sported a most-impressive shiner.  I made up as many stories responding-to the "how and why" as there were inquiries; but suffice to say, it was indeed a badge of DIY ummm... haste and stupidity.

Think Safety, intrepid DIYers.  And thank you, gods of Home Improvement, that it wasn't my new chainsaw!

If any of our readers have interesting DIY "war stories", I encourage you to post comments

Dear AskMason:

My wife and I are planning to build a new deck soon. It seems like salt-treated wood is not used too much anymore. Why? We have heard about and seen Trex, as well as Ipe and other materials. We’re confused! Which is the best??

John in Goochland

John:

Advance congratulations on your upcoming improvements! A deck is a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Central Virginia!

I love your question for two reasons: 1) Obviously, the deck material inquiry is one we deal-with regularly – there are SO many options. 2) The premise, “which is the best?” may apply to any of a number of

Mason,

Help! I have planned to remove wallpaper in a small bathroom today while my husband takes our three children to a football game. I have done this before and generally know how to do it, but it isn't going well. I have scored the paper and am using the DIF wallpaper remover. I have covered it with plastic bags to allow the remover to soak into the paper prior to scraping. It isn't coming off and I fear that there is a coating on the paper. Do you have any suggestions?

Sara in Richmond

Sara,

A mother of three should not have to remove wallpaper. I take it that you are much less of a sports