Top Questions
Question: How can I get rid of gophers?
Jack's advice: Thanks for your question about the gophers... These guys are tough to get rid of, since they have multiple tunnels which can be as long as 1200 feet. There are many methods the people try, from flooding the holes to setting traps. Some less conventional methods also include putting some asprin in the holes, or if you have access to a long haired cat, to stuff some of its hair into the holes. The smell may make the gophers abandon the tunnel.
We also have different kinds of repellent at JAY-K so stop in and see us. We'll need some more information about your problem and can recommend the best solution, whether you want to eliminate the gophers or try to trap them alive.
Question: How can I get rid of the damp smell on my basement floor?
Jack's advice: A damp mop with a solution of 1 part bleach 4 parts water and a tablespoon or two of a non-ammoniated detergent (like our TSP-90) will clean and disinfect the floor. The floor is typically cooler than the air temp and moisture condenses on the floor to create that "damp" smell. By running the humidifier you are removing the moisture from the air, reducing the dampness on the floor and reducing the musty odor. So clean the floor, run the dehumidifier and as an extra precaution you could put a few containers of "Odor Sponges" to absorb the extra "smell".
Question: Jack....To help with basement summer care.... Is there a wash to clean conrete floors and should I run the dehumidifier during summer months to be rid of odors and moisture? No water is coming into the basement from rain at all. What should I use to seal a leaky gutter seam? One gutter is plastic and one is metal.
Jack's advice: A damp mop with a solution of 1 part bleach 4 parts water and a tablespoon or two of a non-ammoniated detergent (like our TSP-90) will clean and disinfect the floor. The floor is typically cooler than the air temp and moisture condenses on the floor to create that "damp" smell. By running the humidifier you are removing the moisture from the air, reducing the dampness on the floor and reducing the musty odor. So clean the floor, run the dehumidifier and as an extra precaution you could put a few containers of "Odor Sponges" to absorb the extra "smell".
Question: My dog likes to chew the walls after I just finished painting them. What should I do?
Jack's advice: Thanks for your question about the dog. If it's a young dog that's teething, the smell of the new paint make make it attracted to the wall. There's no easy solution to this unfortunately. It's important that you keep your pet away from the paint while its drying both for the wall's sake and for the health of your pet. While paint isn't lead based anymore, it still is hazardous to ingest.
I've done some research and this is actually a common problem. Most dogs that do this are looking for attention or to expend energy. Two solutions have been to crate the dog until the repairs are done and the smell leaves the house, or there are anti-chew sprays you can get at many pet stores that you an spray on the wall. The next time he chews, he'll get a taste of the spray and will quickly change his mind. Hope this helps!
Question: I have glass shower doors in my main bathroom and the metal tract has come off the bottom of one of them. There is a screw that is supposed to tighten the metal to the glass but the metal keeps coming off after a few uses every time it's tightened. Is there any glue that would work in holding metal to glass that I could attempt myself or who could repair such an item?
Jack's advice: A couple of options would be, using a larger screw, or try putting lock tight on the screw then into the door. This might help keep the screw from loosening. If all else fails we can sell you a new shower door. I hope this helps with your project. Thanks for writing in.
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