Use acid with caution for driveway stains
Q. I have oil spots on my driveway that I can't get rid of for anything. I have used cleaners from hardware stores, cat litter, pressure washing, and more. What can I do?
A. You might try muriatic acid (pool acid). Muriatic acid comes in both liquid and powdered form. If you get the powdered form you will need to mix it with water first.
But use caution!
Muriatic acid is wicked stuff. It can blind you, burn your eyes and lungs and eat away all of your clothing. Thus, be certain to wear safety goggles, rubber gloves and clothing that covers your entire body and rubber boots. Also, make sure there is plenty of ventilation. No children or pets should be in the area when doing this job.
Here's what to do:
• Wet the stained areas of the concrete with a 10 percent solution. Start with a mild mixture and make stronger mixes as needed; there have been times when the only thing that would work was pure acid. Always add the acid to the water. NEVER add water to the acid when creating the solution.
• Apply the acid and let it sit (spray lightly with water to make sure it stays wet).
• Finally, rinse the area thoroughly to remove the acid.
Q. We have sliding closet doors that are in great condition, but their color is way too dark for our decor. Can I lighten these wooden doors and do I have to sand them first?
A. Though you certainly could sand the doors, an easier method would be to use a product such as synthetic TSP (tri-sodium phosphate), also known as "liquid sandpaper."
The original version of Spic and Span once consisted entirely of -- you got it -- pure TSP. All you need to do is use it to wash the surface you want to paint.
The TSP will etch the varnish and will make the surface porous. This condition improves bonding. After you have thoroughly rinsed away the TSP, all you need to do is apply a really good undercoat.
Keep in mind that cheap paint will not easily hide the darker color that you are trying to eliminate. So, purchase a good brand. Finally, use the finish coat of your choice.
If you prefer to have a stained rather than a painted finish, you will need to sand off the existing finish and then use a wood bleach to lighten the existing stain. Once you have achieved the desired tone, apply two to three coats of clear finish.