Q. I have Andersen casement windows, circa 1970s, the kind that open and close like a door. A number of the handles are stripped, making the windows hard to open and close. I was written off by the Andersen people when I called to inquire. Where can I find replacements?
– Nancy Gates, Newton, Mass.
A. Written off by Andersen? That is very strange, because Andersen, like any other reputable company, is not interested in getting a bad rep.
You may have talked to someone without the authority or sense to do anything, except turn you off. You could try calling the company and getting someone in authority.
But here is what to do: Dismantle one handle, arm and all, and take it to Home Depot. Yep, Home Depot. You may find a substitute handle and arm that will fit.
I did this once, and although my Andersen window was not from the '70s, I quickly found a replacement.
You may also find a replacement at any Andersen dealer.
Q. My next-door neighbor put up 20 arbor vitae inside his property line, about 20 feet from the side of my house. They look nice, but he left a 4-foot-high pile of debris in front of them, still on his property. That pile is ugly and an eyesore, at least to me. How can I block or disguise that pile without spending a lot of money?
– Upset over a pile
A.Without spending a lot of money? Aye, there's the rub. The least expensive way is to build a fence 6 feet high, say a picket fence with lattice on the top third.
Cost will depend on how long the fence has to be. And maybe if you wait, the man will do something about that eyesore.
Q. I have a stain, probably urine, on my Travertine marble floor. I tried everything to remove it, without success. It does not smell, just looks terrible. What might work?
– Lew Moody, Nahant, Mass.
A.Ah yes, marble; not a good choice for a floor anywhere; it is simply too absorbent.
Try this for the stain: wet it heavily, then mound up salt to cover the entire stain several inches high. Wait an hour or so and sweep up the salt and throw it away. Repeat as necessary.
