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Skip to comments.Russian soldiers take over Crimean airports: minister
Posted on 02/28/2014 4:19:10 AM PST by Zhang Fei
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NEVER! stay out of there.
and while we are at it time to leave Hamid Karzai to his mess.
Good lord now we will hear from the conservative faction from the Harvard Endowment (looters of post-Soviet Russia). My personal wants are for mainly peaceful splitting of the country. (because I want to split from Blue Dystopia)
I suspect George Soros will be doing most of the deciding for him.
Mr. niteowl77
The looters are mainly Soviet ex-apparatchiks. They've been looting foreign investors every chance they've gotten. You have to hand it to the Russians, though - they've managed to blame their initial economic malaise on foreigners. But what would you expect from the Russians? They did manage to convince a good chunk of the world that the CIA invented AIDS to kill black people.
Strategically, Russia has to do whatever is necessary to maintain its Black Sea assets. The Ukraine will have to surrender the Crimea in exchange for a Russian OK for it to join NATO and the EU.
Nothing is gonna happen, Obama will do nothing, EU will do nothing because the simple answer is because Putin and the rest of the world is not going to risk war with Russia over this.
Why would supplying Ukraine risk war with Russia?
They finally elected a president...and ONE FACTION says "we don't like him" because he went to Russia for help that the EU will never provide.
They're nuts.
And Crimea should be returned to Russia.
There are agreements with Russia regarding their ports. The Ukrainians are revolting AGAIN because there are instigators all around....and that includes the USA.
There is no Freedom issue.
I suspect their pain threshold is not what it used to be. The Soviets cried uncle after losing 13K dead in Afghanistan. If the Ukrainians are prepared to take the pain of inflicting tens of thousands of dead on the Russians, odds are that the Russians will pull back. It depends on what the Ukrainians are prepared to sacrifice.
They revolted because he was setting himself up to be president for life. This was Chile's Salvador Allende all over again, including the fact that both Allende and Yanukovich were acting at the behest of the Russians.
- Tell Putin I can be more flexible after my reelection .. B. Hussein Obama Junior
EU will do nothing. They are too dependent upon Russian petroleum.
The Crimea and Donets Basin are ethnically Russian, culturally Russian, and speak Russian. The Current Ukraine borders are an artificial creation of Stalin and Roosevelt. Splitting the country makes sense and would contribute to world peace. The Russians in the Southwest present a more difficult problem - that area either needs to be given to Russia, as well, or ethnically cleansed by the west.
Allende was a good guy who cleaned out the Communists. Next you're going to be saying that Franco was a Red.
I think this is what might be called a "soft invasion".
Oil is fungible. The EU can buy it from anyone, and the Russians need to sell it on the world markets to fund their war on Ukraine. Given that oil contracts are set up to optimize transportation and processing costs, the EU will pay a little more to buy from other suppliers and the Russians will get a little less selling to customers further away.
You must be thinking of Pinochet, who cleaned out Allende and his Cuban advisors.
I'm not saying you're right or wrong, but here's a question for you. Suppose the Indian nations in, say, Maine claim that they have been treated unfairly by the federal government. And they have ample evidence to prove it.
So by a large margin, the nations decide to break away. It's all about freedom, the freedom of the nations to decide their own future.
Would Russia be doing the right thing by supplying arms to the nations? And how would that affect the stability of the world?
The "reset button" got stuck on Hillary and Obama.
Obama and the MSM employees will hype this dispute with Russia to the level of a "Cuban missile" crisis -- or maybe a Berlin blockade.
Then remarks questioning Obama, et al. abilities and motives could result in a 2014 version to the Great Sedition Trial of 1944.. the purpose of the Great Sedition Trial of 1944 was to destroy Roosevelt's pre-war critics as attention turned to post-war matters particularly about relations with communists. IMO.
The Great Sedition Trial of 1944
FDR started with small fry and planned to move up the chain of opposition.
FDR failed. Obama might succeed, the Establishment today is arguably aging 1960s New Left Marxist-Alinsky radical, campus psycho spoiled brats and their ideological issue. The Establishment in FDR's days were Americans who eventually stopped:
". . . one of the blackest marks on the record of American jurisprudence. In the legal world, none can recall a case where so many Americans were brought to trial for political persecution and were so arrogantly denied the rights [guaranteed] an American citizen under the Constitution.
No - you're saying I'm wrong. And your argument is a reasonable one. Here's the difficulty - your analogy could be applied to the former Warsaw Pact nations or, indeed, to any nation in the world that has been been overrun. Should we de-recognize governments of the nations of the former Warsaw Pact and demand that they surrender their sovereignty to the Russian empire? After all, Russia did conquer them fair and square during WWII, at the cost of millions of Russian servicemen. Wouldn't Eastern Europe be much more stable under Russian tutelage? Doesn't the Right of Conquest mean anything, any more?
Notwithstanding the reductio ad absurdum I posited earlier, note that Ukraine is a sovereign nation. It is not a part of Russia. A more appropriate analogy would be whether anyone should object if we invaded and annexed Cuba.
I think you misread the situation. Ukraine is in NO shape to fight Belarus, let alone Russia. The country is completely bankrupt. Putin could shut down all the gas lines leading into the country in a heartbeat. Ukraine's military is in disarray after the coup, with many groups being charged in court over the protest killings.
If these people are indeed Russian commandos rather than just separatist rebels (and I'm not convinced they are), then there is nothing Ukraine can do. Her hands are tied.
Besides which, do they really want these thugs on their border and taking over Russia's nukes in the Ukraine? What's to stop their violent style of protesting from spreading to the poor countries of the EU?
The Ukraine is not Afghanistan nor are the Ukrainians, Afghanis. The language and cultural issue is deep-rooted and will be a running sore and distraction.
What? Allende was a communist
Russia owns the pipelines. They cannot get it from anywhere. The infrastructure is not there.
Afghanistan was close to dead last in terms of GDP per capita when the Soviets invaded. (Some things never change). It hadn't fought a real war in over 50 years. Its finances were a shambles. Thanks to a coalition of anti-Communist states, they got a few billion dollars worth of imported arms and money to feed their guerrilla force, and proceeded to bog the Russians down in an increasingly demoralizing war.
In contrast, Ukraine is roughly in the middle of the pack, income-wise. If we hand a few billion dollars a year in food and weaponry to the Ukrainians to ward off the Russian invasion, I expect they will give at least as good an account of themselves as the Afghans did. After WWII, Stepan Bandera and his people fought the Red Army for over a decade with zero foreign aid, and were destroyed only after the Red Army slaughtered hundreds of thousands of civilians with them - which is presumably why Khrushchev gave the Crimea to Ukraine - as a consolation prize for mass killings of Ukrainians. If today's Ukrainians have anything like Bandera's fighting spirit, a few billion dollars in equipment and food should see them pushing the Russians out of the country altogether.
The EU can get its oil from supertankers like everybody else.
The Ukraine turned over their nuclear weapons to Russia a long time ago. They have all kinds of agreements with Russia.
Big difference. In Afghanistan, the natives wanted the invaders gone. The Crimean citizens will fight just as hard as the Afghans did. If Ukrainian tanks roll in, it will only grow the widespread belief that the Ukrainian government is controlled by Svoboda who want to ethnically cleanse the Crimea. Vietnam shows what happens when the local population is not on your side.
Probably 10-20% of Afghans wanted the Soviets there. And they would have held out if Yeltsin hadn't cut off their oil. Even if you add all of Crimea's population together, you don't get to 10% of Ukraine's population.
On condition that the US and the UK guarantee their borders. They were a little too trusting.
Our military is beat up, used up, torn up, worn out. They simply do not need another war right now. These folks need a break.
Agree 100% with your statement. We need to rebuild and refit our military, not deploy them on further wars. And besides, when Obi gets done with his proposed cuts? We'll be lucky to have enough troops left to fill sand bags along the Mississippi River...
"The EU can get its oil from supertankers like everybody else. "
If you'e buying on the spot market and taking delivery via tankers, you're likely paying a premium price. The UK is discovering how expensive that strategy is, as energy prices skyrocket and people are forced to choose between heat and food. There's a new term in England called "fuel poverty" to designate areas that lack adequate energy for heat and lights. It includes about 3 million individuals. Governments that interfere with heat for its citizens will inevitably fall.
What is fuel poverty?
UK weather: 31,000 people DIED of the cold last winter
>>If today's Ukrainians have anything like Bandera's fighting spirit, a few billion dollars in equipment and food should see them pushing the Russians out of the country altogether.<<
It is so good that Russians aren't that America-hating. A few billions in Russian aid to Iraq and Afghanistan could do wonders to US casualty figures in these respective nations.
It could have been surpassed Vietnam losses easily.
I'm still wondering why Russians are so restraint, considering a mood of many Americans who wants to see them bleeding.
The Parliament voted 328-0 to impeach Yanukovich.
They're nuts.
You're not right.
The Ukrainian Constitution requirements are similar.
There are 449 members in parliament.
You described Yanukovich's opposition as "one faction". That's NOT a correct description. Faction means a small group within a larger group. As I pointed out to you 328 of the deputies voted to remove Yunukovich which is just under 75% of the deputies in the Rada. Your description is not correct.
No need for US troops. Ukrainians have plenty of manpower. What they need is money and equipment. The Afghans got a few billion dollars' worth spread out over a decade. After 13K KiA, they persuaded the Russians that staying was more trouble than it was worth.
Because Russians have already killed 100K Americans via Korea and Vietnam, not to mention poisoned much of the world's minds against the US via extremely effective propaganda? Given the number of restive (and violent) minorities in Russia proper, there are a lot of things the US could do to make trouble. Ultimately, unlike Russia's efforts in Afghanistan and Ukraine, the US was never going to annex either Iraq or Afghanistan, so there was never a prospect of a long term war in either of those two locations. And the Iraqi and Afghan insurgents got all the supplies they needed via their porous borders. Not to mention that their insurgents included a lot of Russian Muslim minorities who would have made life interesting for Russia if they had returned alive. Ultimately, we helped cleanse Russia of its troublesome zealots. It would be stupid for Russia to get in our way, and even Putin understood that.
Buying oil via supertankers is what developing countries do. The UK has 10x the per capita income of the average developing country. Besides, the Russians have to sell their oil somewhere at the spot price, so UK purchases won't affect that price, except for added transportation costs.
No US troops necessary. The Afghans outlasted the Russians without a single GI going into combat. We sent food and equipment and the Afghans did the rest.
Afghanistan does not equal Ukraine.
We had heavy CIA involvement in Afghanistan in the 80s. And other "interested" Americans.
Putin may not have that much interest in Ukraine proper, but he will never relinquish Crimea.
And if we've learned anything, in many instances, US involvement at any level leads to US boots on the ground...
Actually, the majority of US involvement during the Cold War involved material aid. Most of Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines) and Latin America received substantial sums of American aid to fight off their Communist insurgencies. Among the failed efforts that nonetheless stretched our adversaries' resources, we financed Angolan rebels against the ruling Soviet-aligned Angolan government, Tibetan insurgents against the Chinese, the contras against the Soviet-aligned Nicaraguan government.
One of the reasons the US Government has failed to endorse The Cold War Victory Medal is the fact they would need to acknowledge the 500 or so military men who died on various "missions" during the Cold War.
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ApHogee Treatment for Damaged Hair 4 oz.
- Overview
- Ingredients
- Features
- ApHogee products are scientifically formulated using the highest quality ingredients
- Restores seriously damaged hair to healthy condition
- Formulated with magnesium and modified proteins which fuse into the hair with the application of heat
- The result is that breakage is drastically reduced
- Treatment is a salon service product unlike any product available for at-home use
- ApHogee treatment hardens into the hair, dramatic evidence that something special is occurring
- Gently cleanse hair with ApHogee Shampoo. Rinse thoroughly & towel blot day.
- Apply enough ApHogee Treatment to thoroughly saturate hair and comb blend for even distribution.
- Leave hair uncovered. Do not use a plastic cap, and seat client under medium heat dryer. (Alternatively, a hand dryer may be used, but hair should not be agitated while drying.)
- Note: When ApHogee Treatment is dried into the hair, the hair becomes extremely hard. Do not comb or brush hair while ApHOGEE Treatment is dried and in the hair.
- Re-wet and gently rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply ApHogee Balancing Moisturizer (P8173) to hair & scalp. Leave for 2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Proceed to next service or style as usual.
- About the brand
ApHogee Treatment for Damaged Hair stops hair breakage and rebuilds hair structure for six weeks. Ideal for permed, tinted or relaxed hair.
Deionized Water, Hydrolyzed Animal Protein, Magnesium Sulfate, Citric Acid,Ethylene Urea, Dimethylol Urea, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Magnesium Carbonate,DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance.
Shake well before use!
Bleaching & lifting tint: Wash hair, rinse and towel blot dry.Bleach or lift tint in usual way and rinse. Follow general directions for applying ApHOGEE Treatment.
Depositing tint: Wash hair, rinse and towel blot dry. Follow general directions for applying ApHOGEE Treatment. After ApHOGEE is rinsed out, towel dry and apply depositing tint in usual way. Place a plastic cap over hair and check every 2 1/2 minutes. A warm dryer may be used. When tint is complete,shampoo thoroughly from hair. Apply ApHOGEE Moisturizer to help restore natural moisture balance to hair. Rinse and proceed with next service or style as usual.
Permanent waves: Process perm as directed. When curl pattern is set and rinsing complete, towel blot hair on each rod. Apply ApHOGEE Treatment to each rod and dry under warm dryer. Do not use a plastic cap. Apply neutralizer and leave on hair for manufacturers suggested length of time. Removes rods without stretching hair and gently massage the neutralizer into hair and scalp.Rinse thoroughly. Apply ApHOGEE Moisturizer to restore shine and luster to hair.Rinse and style as usual.
ApHogee repairs damaged locks, restoring hair to its natural beauty. Features hair care and styling products for hair types ranging from over-processed and over-colored to ethnic, these products tend to all forms of breakage and damage.
A Miracle Prod. Where U Been All This TimeI heard about aphogee about 3 years ago from fellow members of my hair club in NYC. I was skeptical as hell. I relax and was not treating so my hair kept breaking to no ends....only two weeks ago I decided to try Aphogee at home one saturday morning. with hubby and my two toddlers looking on I tried it - i was scared when it was dry and it smelled bad but let me tell you. After I followed up with an intense moisturizing conditioner with cap under dryer for 10mins, roller setted and dried. My hair was strong and felt different. I love it! and wondered why I refused to try it all these years. WOW aphogee!Apr 25, 2005Terri / Long Island, NY
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Very Good ProductI noticed shedding and breakage in my daughters hair. It had been relaxed before and I regret it. However, I stated using the entire ahpogee product line and I have seen less shedding and thicker hair. I believe she will gain her length back. I have been using the product for about 4 months and her hair is very manageable and soft even after washing. We keep checking the comb for hair loss and there is so little to none there. I will continue to use the entire product line. Please use as directed and be sure to use the mositurizing balancer after every treatment !Apr 19, 2005Michele / California
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Wow!!!!!!!!!!!Well, I must say that I am pleased with my results. I just finished my hair using the treatment fot damaged hair. Already I can tell that my hair feels so much stronger. It appears to be so much thicker!!!!!! But I gotta tell ya...the smell is terrible but the results so far are wonderful. I guess I will take the good along with the bad. I cant wait to see how it looks in about 6 weeks when it will be time for another treatment!Apr 2, 2005Regina / North Carolina
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Warning: Do Not Use Alone!Im starting to think the previous reviews were written by the sales people. This product is horrible. My hair was healthy beyond belief, I used this stuff once and it made all my hair break off. My scalp itched like crazy and the whole experience has opened my eyes to what a terrible product this is, unfortunately I also remembered that any time I used this stuff in the past -- my hair looked exactly the way it does now. I never made to connection before --but trust me. Do not use this stuff on your hair straight from the bottle. Add maybe an ounce or two to a CREAM CONDITIONER and use it that way. I changed my routine once because I was going to dye my hair -- and now I have to wait another year until my hair rethickens and grows back. Truly disheartening.Apr 1, 2005Denise / CALIFORNIA
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Aphogee Treatment Is ExcellentI was skeptical about this until I tried it. WOW is all I can say. It REALLY does repair your hair, what a difference after the first time. I dye my hair every six week a light blonde and have been frustrated about conditioners that just dont help with the breakage I get. I will ABSOLUTELY continue to use this treatment, my hair is in the best condition it has seen since before I started dying it. I suggest you follow the directions to a tee in order for proper results.Mar 24, 2005Dawn / Brentwood, TN
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Aphogee Works!!I had a treatment of Aphogee in November 04 along with a trim of my ends. As of now 2/05, my hair has grown at least 3 inches and looks as healthy as it did when I was in my tenns (pre-cut/chemicals). There is soooooo little breakage and absolutely no spit ends (It looks as if my hair has been freshly trimmed and treated 4 months after the aphogee). Even though I let my scalp dry out and slept with my hair on cotton pillow cases NO Breakage. I LOVE THIS PRODUCT AND WILL BE A LIFELONG CUSTOMER!!!Feb 23, 2005Rochelle Dixon / Maryland
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Aphogee Really Works!I agree with all of the rave reviews for this product. My hair is chemically relaxed and color treated. Before using Aphogee for Damaged Hair, my hair was rough, dry and dull and unable to grow much past my ears before breaking off. I used the curling iron daily with heat activiated protective products. Even with hair spray, it couldnt hold a style. Since using Aphogee for Damaged Hair, my hair has become soft, smooth and shiny. I dont need to regularly use setting lotions, hair sprays or anything else to set my hair and hold a style. I apply it within a week after a relaxer, immediately afterwards when coloring. Well, before I read that it could be applied before coloring. Within a relatively short period of time (6 months), my hair is now at my shoulder blades! After the first time of using this product, I wondered if I had actually hurt my hair because it was so smooth and not "big" and full appearing, I thought it had thinned out or something. Ive since discovered that I just didnt know what healthy African American hair could look like. Now, Im asked all of the time, who does my hair and what do they use. I think even my stylist is a little jealous and wondering where I am going instead of her. What can I say? Id rather apply this $10 product in the privacy of my home rather than pay $30 for one application to sit at the front of WalMarts style salon and have it applied. It has made a serious difference for my seriously damaged hair!Feb 1, 2005Lisa / Texas
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Great ProductThis treatment is a miracle! It stops hair breakage and repairs it to the point where your hair will probably look like virgin hair. I was amazed to see very little hair in my comb afterward. Hair looks thicker and in control. Ater blow drying and using my Bion to straighen, I used Silk Therapy as a finishing touch. My hair looks and feels healthy. If your hair is dry, frizzy, and thirsty for repair, this is the product. I have used many products and this is by far the best I found for treatment. This product is inexpensive. Salons in my area charge $40 or more for a treatment like this.Jan 30, 2005Susan / Long Island
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This Stuff WorksI have just had a baby plus my hair is relaxed AND has been lifted and colored. When I came from the hospital from having my daughter my hair was shedding bad! I used the treatment for damaged hair in addition to the other products (shampoo, conditioner, reconstructor,and balance moisturizer) and my hair stopped shedding!This stuff works wonders!Jan 28, 2005Nicole / Fayetteville, Nc
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Excellent For Postpartum Loss And Relaxer DamageStings the scalp a bit and smells a bit like eggs and vinegar but you will notice increased elasticity and strength immediately. For extremely damaged hair, best used every two weeks for about two months, then every five to six weeks. Must be followed by an intense moisturizing treatment (recommend Aphogee moisturizer or Redken All Soft Heavy Cream with plastic cap and 10 minutes under dryer). A must for relaxed hair.Jan 25, 2005D / NYC
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subset: commoncrawl


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Find out how to troubleshoot a broken vacuum cleaner to pinpoint the problem and determine if it's worth repairing. Learn how a simple shower mixing valve will help avoid the shock of a sudden icy cold or burning hot shower stream. Get tips on how to clean window screens as well as a few window screen safety hints. Plus get answers to your home improvement questions about types of flooring, eliminating squirrels, staining a wooden fence, energy efficient HWH, window condensation, air conditioning problems, tiling a bathroom floor, painting foundation walls, eliminating bugs, siding problems.
TOM: Coast to coast and floorboards to shingles, this is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: And you should go to the phones right now and give us a call with your home improvement question, your do-it-yourself dilemma. The number is 1-888-MONEY-PIT. It's as easy as that. Before you pick up the tools or before you throw the project down in utter frustration because it's just not going well, well, pick up the phone and call us.
LESLIE: Take a step back and use your phone.
TOM: We'll tell you to throw it down and start again.
LESLIE: Aww.
And here on the money pit, Leslie, we love to celebrate holidays, right?
LESLIE: Yes.
TOM: We're always good for a holiday celebration.
LESLIE: I love holidays.
TOM: But this week, we're going to break new ground. We're going to celebrate That Sucks Day, which falls about this time every year and not so coincidentally, at the very same time your tax returns are due.
LESLIE: For real? Ah. Which does suck.
TOM: So, in celebration, we'll make sure that one appliance in your house that is supposed to suck – of course, we're talking about the vacuum – actually does just that.
LESLIE: Oh, OK.
TOM: We're going to have some troubleshooting tips to make sure your vacuum sucks up dirt and crumbs exactly the way it's supposed to be.
LESLIE: Alright. And also ahead this hour, it also really sucks when you're taking a shower and all of a sudden you're hit with what's commonly known as "shower shock": the water turns icy cold or super-scalding hot in just a few seconds.
TOM: Usually followed by a scream.
LESLIE: Yes, usually. And sometimes preceded by a toilet flush and a laughing child.
TOM: Right.
LESLIE: But if you've got everything squared away, you'll be alright. You know, the problem is your shower valve and that's what's causing this problem. So we're going to have the step-by-step solution to help you stay safe in your shower.
TOM: Plus, just ahead, we've got some easy, window screen-cleaning tips to keep your windows and screens in tip-top shape.
LESLIE: And this hour, we're giving away a great prize. We've got a $50 Lowe's gift card, courtesy of our friends at Therma-Tru, up for grabs.
TOM: So, let's get to it. The number is 1-888-MONEY-PIT, 888-666-3974.
Leslie, who's first?
LESLIE: Jessica in Texas is on the line with a flooring question. How can we help you today?
JESSICA: Hi. I wanted to find out – we were going to install wood flooring and I'm debating between the laminate and regular wood. And also, we have three kids and so I want to know which one's easier to clean and take care of.
TOM: Yeah. And that's the killer right there. If you've got kids, if you've got pets and you're going to have that kind of activity, you're going to have the need to have a floor that is as easy as possible.
LESLIE: Super-durable.
TOM: Very durable, yes, and as easy as possible to care for. So, with that in mind, we would tell you that laminate flooring is probably a little easier to maintain than wood flooring. But even having said that, if you are going to go with wood flooring, Jessica, you want to get one that has the best warranty possible because the finishes – I mean there are finishes right now that could last 50 years. I know Lumber Liquidators has got a – what is it – Bellawood line that has a 50-year warranty on it.
LESLIE: Bellawood, yeah.
TOM: You've got to get something that's got a really good warranty finish on it.
LESLIE: Almost like a commercial finish on it, as well.
TOM: Well, exactly, because that's what's going to stand up to that kind of traffic. The care is totally different for wood floors; you don't use very much moisture at all with them when you care for them.
LESLIE: Like a damp – really damp like ….
TOM: Yeah, very damp mop or not – I should say just a very-slightly damp mop. Laminate flooring, you could be a little more aggressive with. We have three kids that we brought up on our laminate floor and I've got to tell you, it was the right choice for us. But of course, it's never going to look exactly like wood.
JESSICA: Right.
TOM: It could do pretty well but it's not going to look exactly like it.
JESSICA: OK. Which one's easier to install by yourself? Is laminate pretty …?
TOM: Laminate and engineered hardwood, which is similar to solid hardwood except it's made up in layers. Both of those are floating installations where the tiles or the floor pieces sort of click together.
LESLIE: Mm-hmm. Yeah, they snap together and then lock down.
TOM: Right. They don't get glued down.
JESSICA: Oh, OK.
TOM: They float and then you use molding around the outside of the room to trim up that last space.
JESSICA: OK, great. Thank you so much for you guys' time.
TOM: You're welcome. Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Greg in Iowa, you've got The Money Pit. How can we help you today?
GREG: Well, I got some squirrels that got up in my eave; there's a hole. And they crawled up inside there and now they're up inside of the roof. And I don't know if there's an easy way to get them out of my roof and then cover up that hole or if I have to call somebody to get them out of my roof, I guess? I don't know.
LESLIE: Well, Greg, do you have access to the area of the attic or the area of your roof line, I guess, where they're sort of hanging out?
GREG: Yeah, I do. There's an actual trap door that goes up there.
LESLIE: OK. But they're not getting into your house. They're staying up there, correct?
GREG: They're staying up there, yeah. No, they're not in the house but they make quite a bit of noise and my dog kind of tends to have a good time when they start doing that. So, wakes me up in the middle of the night with the barking and stuff, because you can hear them up in the roof, so …
LESLIE: Good. For now. For now.
TOM: What about a Havahart trap?
LESLIE: Have you tried one of those?
GREG: What's that?
LESLIE: A Havahart trap?
GREG: I have not.
LESLIE: It's a very humane way of sort of containing the squirrels, if you will. And it's an in-one-way/can't-get-out-the-other-way type of trap. And you really have to be careful with the type of bait that you choose to use, because these squirrels are sneaky little guys. And they will get in there and take – whether you put an apple or something with peanut butter, something that they're going to want to eat. You have to make sure that you wire this piece of fruit down into the cage because they have been known to sneak in there, grab the fruit and get the heck out before it has a chance to lock them in.
So if you can sort of wire the piece of fruit that you're using to tempt them in, down, they'll come in, they'll hang out, they'll have a snack. The trap door will close, then brave you climbs up into the attic and takes your Havahart trap and drives them to the park – somewhere far away – and sets them free and runs.
GREG: Well, I'll try that. I just didn't want to have to call somebody to do it and spend a lot of money.
TOM: In that order, right?
LESLIE: Yeah.
GREG: But I'll look into that. That sounds like a good idea, so …
TOM: Alright, Greg.
LESLIE: And then, once you get them out, you can seal up that hole.
GREG: Yep. Thank you.
TOM: Alright, Greg. Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: You are tuned to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. Well, with the holidays just a few days away, let us help you get your house in tip-top shape for the spring holiday season. We're here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-MONEY-PIT.
TOM: 888-666-3974. Up next, it definitely sucks when your vacuum cleaner doesn't suck. But it's not hard to figure out what the problem is so it can be repaired. We're going to have some easy, vacuum-cleaner troubleshooting tips, next.
[audio timestamp: 0:07:05]
(theme song)
ANNOUNCER: The Money Pit is brought to you by Therma-Tru Doors, the nation's leading manufacturer of fiberglass entry and patio door systems. Therma-Tru doors are Energy Star-qualified and provide four times the insulation of a wood door. To learn more, visit ThermaTru.com. Now, here are Tom and Leslie.
TOM: Making good homes better, welcome back to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: And you should pick up the phone and give us a call right now at 1-888-MONEY-PIT, because one caller we talk to on the air this hour is going to win a $50 Lowe's gift card, courtesy of our friends at Therma-Tru. They're supplying this gift card so that you could use it towards the purchase of a Benchmark by Therma-Tru door, which is sold exclusively at Lowe's. It's made of fiberglass, which looks like wood but insulates up to four times better. The number is 1-888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Alright. Pick up the phone. We would love to help you with whatever you are working on at your house.
And perhaps you're getting really into the spirit of the spring season by just cleaning your house up a storm. But maybe when you're getting to the cleaning process, you're finding out that your vacuum cleaner is kind of acting up. So before you take it to the repair shop or worse, just give up and buy a new one, take a few minutes and try to pinpoint the problem.
Now, the fix, it actually could be easier than you think, so start with the suction. Is the suction poor? Is it just not happening? If that's your issue, there could be a clog in the hose or the bag or the filter. Or maybe the canister is full or maybe something in that canister needs to be replaced or just simply emptying out that canister.
Now, if you're hearing a funny noise or a weird vibration, first try to find out exactly where that noise is coming from. If it sounds like it's coming from the motor area, it could simply be a broken fan blade. If the noise is coming from the brush area, then it may be a defective brush-roller bearing or the brush roller itself. If either is defective, that needs to be replaced.
TOM: Now, if your vacuum cleaner is hard to push, it might have a broken or a worn belt or it could have come off the motor spindle. If your vacuum has a burning-rubber smell, that might also be coming from the belt. You want to check the brush roller for obstructions and clear away any hair or carpet fibers, because it makes the brush hard to turn and that causes some friction with that actual rubber belt. If the brush roller does spin freely with the belt removed, you can reinstall the belt and test it for proper operation.
And if you find that you need to replace your vacuum cleaner's belt, do yourself a favor: buy two and tape the extra one to the vacuum handle, so it's always there and handy the next time your belt breaks. They're cheap and they're worth having an extra always on hand.
For more troubleshooting tips just like that, head on over to MoneyPit.com and search on vacuums.
LESLIE: Martie in Nebraska is on the line with a fencing question. How can we help you with your project?
MARTIE: Hello, Leslie. Hi, Tom.
TOM and LESLIE: Hi.
MARTIE: I have a question – actually, two questions – about our wooden fence. We have a four-year-old, 6-foot wooden fence that we want to either stain or paint this summer. My first question is, do we need to put a primer on that fence? And my second question is, would it be better to stain it or paint it? And if we paint it, what type of paint?
LESLIE: Hmm. And there's nothing on it currently?
MARTIE: No, no.
TOM: Yeah. So what I would do is I would wire-brush it to make sure you get off any of the dead wood fibers.
TOM: Then, you know, if you use an oil-based, solid-color stain, if you prime …
LESLIE: It'll give you the kind of look of paint.
TOM: Yeah, if you prime it, it will last longer but it's a lot of work for a fence to do priming. But certainly, it will last longer. You need to use an oil primer underneath it. I did my last fence without a primer but I did use a really good-quality, oil-based stain with lots and lots of solid color, so it had lots and lots of pigment in it. And I've got to tell you, this wood fence is about ready to be replaced now but it's been probably 15 or 16 years since I put it in there.
LESLIE: Really?
TOM: It's lasted an amazing ….
MARTIE: Oh, my goodness. That long?
TOM: Yeah. And you know why? For two reasons. First of all, because I did a really good job finishing it and secondly, most of the fence installers put fences in that are too close to the ground. I made sure – I stood over the installer's shoulder and said, "I want this thing to be about 3 inches off the ground so that the boards don't come in contact with the dirt at all or with the grass during normal growth."
LESLIE: With the floor at all.
TOM: Because when it gets wet on the bottom edge of the boards, that's what starts the rot kind of riding right up the board.
MARTIE: OK. So, that didn't happen when ours was installed; it is flush with the ground.
LESLIE: Touching the ground? But that's OK.
TOM: Alright. So you can undercut it. You can undercut it. So, take a board – like a 2x4 – lay it on the ground so – then draw a line 3 inches off the ground.
LESLIE: You can even snap a chalk line from one end to the other.
TOM: Yeah and cut that – those boards – so you have a little bit of air space underneath there.
LESLIE: Do you have a circular saw?
MARTIE: Oh. Yes.
LESLIE: Because that's great. If you snap a chalk line right across the entire length of the fence at the desired height, you just plunge-cut your first plank off and zip right across. Just watch your posts. Make sure …
TOM: Yeah. You know why the fence installers put it in that way?
LESLIE: So you'll need a new one.
TOM: It's job security.
MARTIE: Oh, oh, OK. So wire-brush it, then use – after it's undercut, wire-brush it and then use a really good, oil-based stain.
TOM: Solid color. Yeah. Solid-color stain. Solid color.
MARTIE: Solid color, right.
TOM: Right. As opposed to semi-transparent.
MARTIE: Alright. Thank you so much.
TOM: You're very welcome, Martie. Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Now we've got Ed in Indiana on the line who has got a water-heating question. How can we help you with that project?
ED: Hi. Thanks for having me on. Well, what I'm looking at right now is I'm trying to make my home more energy-efficient. And I'm looking at the – GE came out with a GeoSpring hybrid hot-water heater, which basically runs like a hot – like a heat pump.
TOM: It's a heat-pump water heater, yes. Mm-hmm.
ED: Right. And if you figure the dollars that it costs – it's about $1,600 – and the savings per year could be up to about $320. They're saying about 62 percent more energy-efficient. Looks like about a five-year payback. But this is a new product on – out on the market and I'd just kind of like to have your thoughts on it.
TOM: So the technology has been out for probably about two years now. We're starting to see the heat-pump water heaters be released by multiple manufacturers, including GE. GE makes a great appliance. The other thing to figure into this is that there is a tax credit that's available. Now, it's not as big as it was last year but it's still decent; it's a $300 federal tax credit if you buy and install it in 2011.
So, the technology is solid and this is for folks, though, that right now have electric water heaters. So you're not comparing this against gas. You had electric originally? Is that correct?
ED: Oh, yeah. I'm totally electric.
TOM: OK. So, you're totally electric, you're basically heating your water the most expensive way possible and now you want to try to save some money. With a heat-pump water heater, definitely the way to go with that.
ED: Yeah. It looks like about a five-year payback period if it is true. You'll save about 320 a year, so …
TOM: Right. And you've got to use them correctly. They're very sophisticated, though, with their control systems.
ED: Yeah, absolutely. And I know water – heating your water is probably the most costly thing that you can do in your home but we'll have to have a …
TOM: Yeah. It certainly can be expensive but these water heaters are very, very good at what they do. They employ basically two technologies: they have the heat pump, which does most of the water heating most of the time but under periods of high demand, they still have the electric-resistance heat built into it. So you're not going to run out of water because you're heating it with a heat pump.
ED: Alright. Well, thanks so much. I appreciate that.
TOM: You're welcome. Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: You know, GE is so savvy. When we were at the builders' show, Tom, I don't know if you remember this but at their booth, they were presenting this very new technology that sort of allows all of the appliances in the home to speak to one another and then to speak to the power company, as well, to give you the tools that you might need to decide – "Alright, if I do my laundry right now, it's going to cost …"
TOM: Yeah. Smart metering. A smart meter.
LESLIE: I mean it's really fantastic. So, they're hopefully – you can monitor your entire home and really make smart choices to use your energy appropriately, efficiently and affordably.
TOM: Absolutely. And like I said, the technology is solid, so I wouldn't be concerned about it. And it's going to be a heck of a lot less expensive way to heat your water.
LESLIE: Alright. Now we've got Leslie calling in and it's not me. And Leslie has a question about window condensation. Welcome.
LESLIE (CALLER): Hello. Yes. My question is, how can I reduce or eliminate condensation that forms on the inside of my windows? The home was built in the 50s and so the windows are stationary; they're not intended to be opened or closed.
TOM: Right. Yeah and obviously, you have very inefficient windows. You probably do not have insulated glass, correct?
LESLIE (CALLER): Probably.
TOM: Yeah. Well, you're fighting physics right here, Leslie. What's happening is you have warm, moist air that forms in the house from everything that we do inside a house – from cooking to bathing to breathing – and that strikes the cold glass, which is not insulated, and condenses. So while you can take steps to reduce the amount of moisture inside your house, with dehumidifiers and things of that nature, you are almost always, most certainly going to have some level of condensation unless you replace your windows.
Now, if you are thinking of replacing windows, I will say that doing so before the end of this year is wise, because you can qualify for a $1,500 tax credit and that will help offset some of the expense.
LESLIE (CALLER): Wow. Alright. So, also, the wood around it is really weak, especially at the bottom.
TOM: Yeah, well, because it's …
LESLIE: Because there's water damage.
TOM: Sure. Yeah, it's subjected to all that water. You only need 20 – raise the water – the moisture inside the wood – 20 to 25 percent before the decay organisms wake up. So, yeah, that doesn't surprise me in the least.
LESLIE (CALLER): Lovely. Alright. So replacing the windows, then, is …
TOM: Is a wise thing to do. I'll tell you what. On our website at MoneyPit.com, there is a free download of a chapter from our book, My Home, My Money Pit: Your Guide to Every Home Improvement Adventure, that has everything you need to know about choosing replacement windows. It's got all the latest information in it, too, about the tax-credit program.
So, go to our website, MoneyPit.com. I believe it's on the home page; it's one of the rotating panels there. And you can download that free chapter and that'll get you started.
LESLIE (CALLER): Alright. Thank you, guys, so much.
TOM: You're welcome. Thanks so much for calling us at 1-888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Still to come this hour, this month we celebrate That Sucks Day. And …
TOM: Still love that name.
LESLIE: It's just so meaningful, for so many reasons, especially this month of the year. So still to come, we're going to help you find out what is causing that shocking shower: when your nice, warm shower suddenly turns freezing cold or scalding hot. We're going to keep you out of shower danger zone, after this.
[audio timestamp: 0:18:51]
(theme song)
TOM: Where home solutions live, welcome back to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: And you can listen to The Money Pit on the go, with The Money Pit iPhone app. You can get the full show, full show archives. You can ask a question on the community – in the forum or you can connect with us on Facebook or Twitter. It's all free online at MoneyPit.com.
LESLIE: Mildred in California is on the line with an air-conditioning question. What can we do for you?
MILDRED: Yes. I'm in Sonora, California and in the summertime, we usually have three to six weeks that maybe gets up to 110, maybe 112, really hot.
MILDRED: Whenever my – I've got a roof – central heat and air-conditioning unit. So, whenever the air conditioner kicks on, it's like hot air comes out first and it even smells almost like the furnace is on, until it gets that hot air out of the vents, I guess.
TOM: Yeah.
MILDRED: But they tell me I've got plenty of insulation. It's a tight, little house. I've got the screens on the window to keep the sun out and everything, to keep my energy bill down and everything. But that first gush of hot air, can you get rid of that?
TOM: No, not unless you move.
MILDRED: Oh.
TOM: Your forced-air system is going to have stale air that's going to be in it and it's going to get really, really hot. And when you first turn on the system, it's going to blow all that out of there.
LESLIE: It's got to evacuate it somehow.
TOM: And it'll take a couple of cycles for that to do that. So what you're describing is totally normal and it lasts for a very short period of time and it's something that you really kind of have to live with.
MILDRED: OK. I wondered if maybe there was something where you could put insulation around the vent pipes or something.
TOM: No, because you – it's not – there's nothing to cool the air, OK?
MILDRED: Oh, OK.
TOM: Yeah.
MILDRED: Oh, well. It just really shocked me; I guess I've never lived any place that it got this hot at one time.
TOM: Right. Alright. Well, hopefully, we have put your mind at ease. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Well, it's probably happened to you at least once or twice: you're standing in your shower and you're having a great time, the water's hot, you're feeling good and then all of a sudden, it's like "Gwah-zoiks (ph)!" The water turns either freezing cold or super-duper hot.
TOM: And that's an experience that can knock anyone off-balance. The solution, however, is to install a pressure-balanced valve. With us to talk about that is Richard Trethewey, the plumbing expert for TV's This Old House.
Hi, Richard.
RICHARD: Hey, guys. Nice to be back in The Money Pit.
TOM: And this is a situation also called "shower shock," for a very good reason. Can you tell us exactly why it happens, so at least when we do get zapped the next time we're in a shower, we'll understand it?
LESLIE: We know the reason.
RICHARD: Well, you've got a hot pipe and a cold pipe that come up to your shower area. And they should have the exact same pressure, because the pressure coming in from the street should make it consistent. So let's say that's 40 pounds on each side. If you now flush a toilet and all of a sudden, the pressure drops on the cold-water side while you're taking a shower, then the hot-water side has higher pressure. Thereby, more heated water goes through the shower head and you get scalded.
TOM: So it's really a matter of volume. If you spill off some of the cold water to flush a toilet or run the dishwasher, all of a sudden, there is that imbalance.
RICHARD: That's right. Yeah, yeah. Yeah. It's volume but it's really pressure, you know.
RICHARD: Some volume of water goes when you flush the toilet but it is – all of a sudden, there's a pressure imbalance and the hot-water pressure wins.
LESLIE: So it's like the tortoise and the hare; suddenly, the hare takes off and it's gone.
RICHARD: Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And it is a common problem and I – we've been in love with this basic, single-lever, pressure-balance shower valve for years. It was one of the great innovations in plumbing because it can eliminate this completely.
TOM: So how, exactly, does that work then?
RICHARD: Well, imagine it has a piston. We did a great, cutaway explanation of this on Ask This Old House in the studio. And so, now, there's a little piston inside this shower valve that when it feels the cold-water pressure drop, it slides the piston in the opposing direction. It's very counter-intuitive and it makes the pressure on the hot-water side go lower to match whatever the cold water is. So it's constantly going to slide that piston back and forth to make sure that the pressures at both hot and cold, regardless of what happened in the house, stay the same. What a joy to be in a shower and not have to worry about that scald.
LESLIE: Now, are you going to notice a drop in the pressure of the shower water itself, just because it's balancing it?
RICHARD: Slightly. It really depends on how much the pressure has dropped, meaning if the plumbing system is properly sized, you won't see any real, noticeable change. If it's undersized, you'll see a drop but if it's sized properly, you'll see no appreciable change in pressure.
LESLIE: Mm-hmm. Now, the pressure-balance valve, this is something that's installed behind your shower wall, so – and I imagine that every house is pretty much getting one of these. But what happens if you're one of the unlucky few and you don't have one? How do you sort of correct this without tearing down a wall?
RICHARD: They have the most ingenious repair kit, a replacement kit. Now, the 1930s, 40s and 50s bathroom that – maybe not the 50s but it would have had the three handles: the hot, the cold and then the middle one to determine whether or not …
TOM: The mix.
RICHARD: Yes.
TOM: Right.
RICHARD: That it went up to the shower head or down to the tub spout. Now, with this, you can mount a template. You can remove that valve, chip away the tile and there's this cover plate that can cover exactly where those three handles were and allow you to retrofit this single-lever, pressure-balance valve.
LESLIE: Oh, wow.
RICHARD: We've done it on the show a couple times and it's really a great solution for people. It's amazing people live with this level of fear. They spend their whole lives – "Don't tell me to go back into the …"
LESLIE: "Don't flush the toilet."
TOM: Right. Yeah. It's the – yeah, it's the source of all this domestic stress.
RICHARD: That's right.
TOM: And it doesn't have to be, because …
RICHARD: "Don't run the dishwasher while I'm up there."
TOM: Divorces have been caused by less.
RICHARD: But we do marriage counseling, too.
TOM: Alright. He's a very, very flexible guy. Lots of skills, including teaching us how to avoid the dreaded shower shock.
Richard Trethewey from This Old House, thanks for stopping by The Money Pit once again.
RICHARD: Glad to be here.
TOM: And actually, on ThisOldHouse.com, there is a very, very good article called "Stop the Shock," that walks us through some of these very same tips.
LESLIE: Alright. Now remember, you can watch Richard and the entire This Old House team on This Old House and Ask This Old House on your local PBS station.
TOM: And This Old House and Ask This Old House are brought to you by Stanley. Stanley, make something great.
Still ahead, we've got tips on how to clean the grime off your window screens, so you can really let those warm-weather breezes come straight through.
[audio timestamp: 0:25:38]
(theme song)
TOM: Making good homes better, welcome back to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete. Pick up the phone and give us a call. We would love to help you with all of your spring home improvements. All you have to do is dial 888-MONEY-PIT.
Now, when you get us on the phone and you ask your question on the air, one of you will win a $50 Lowe's gift card, courtesy of our friends at Therma-Tru. And a great spring project that's really going to spruce up how your entire house looks, with really one simple project, is replacing your wood, front-entry door with a fiberglass door.
Fiberglass doors, they look just like wood – I mean they really do – but they insulate up to four times better. And the Benchmark Collection by Therma-Tru is sold exclusively at Lowe's. So one lucky caller that we talk to on the air is going to win that $50 Lowe's gift card, courtesy of our friends at Therma-Tru. So give us a call right now at 888-MONEY-PIT.
Well, now that it's getting warm outside, you might be ready to throw open the windows to let some of that springtime air sail through. Before you do that, you want to make sure to carefully clean your screens.
Here's what to do. First, you want to start by removing the screens from the frame and placing them on a flat surface, like the driveway or even your lawn. Then use a soft-bristle brush with mild soap and water to scrub away the dirt and the grime. And make sure you clean both sides of the screen before you rinse it.
LESLIE: Yeah. And you want to remember never to pressure-wash your screens, because the force of your pressure-washer – which, we all know, once you get one in your hands, you just really want to get aggressive with it. So if you happen to use your pressure-washer while cleaning your screens, you could actually damage them.
Now, most importantly, you want to remember that window screens are really just meant to keep insects out of your house and help you to provide ventilation. They're not meant to support the weight of a pet or a child, so please keep your furniture away from your windows and teach your kids not to push on the screens.
If you want some more information on window screens and windows, visit our friends at Simonton.com.
TOM: Or pick up the phone and call us right now. The number is 1-888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Terry in Arkansas is on the line with a tiling question. What are you working on?
TERRY: It's a bathroom floor and a walk-in shower.
TERRY: And I was just wondering – my tile on the floor – should I be leaving a ¼-inch grout all the way around, next to the wall?
LESLIE: Between the first tile and the wall, where you're going to have your wall tile sort of sit on top of?
TERRY: Yes.
LESLIE: I don't know. I would try – I feel like a ¼-inch doesn't seem like a lot but once you deal with grout at those joinery points, they lack the flexibility to sort of stand up to the normal wear and tear and movement. So after you get cranking in the shower, maybe give it a year and that grout's going to start to crack out.
TOM: Right.
LESLIE: Whereas caulk, sort of sealing these two areas, really getting as close as you can with the tile to that corner area or that wall surface, that caulk will sort of seal everything together and move with it. I have a contractor friend who likes to mix grout with silicone caulk. I haven't seen the results. He raves about his work; I'm not sure if it really works. But he does talk about it.
Tom, what do you think? Does that work?
TOM: I don't like the idea of mixing it together.
LESLIE: Right. It seems like the composition was off.
TOM: Right, exactly. No, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
LESLIE: Yeah. So if I were you, I'd just get as close as you can to that wall surface and then just caulk the edge so that it'll move with it.
TERRY: OK. And my other question was, would you guys recommend thinset or a type of mastic on the shower walls?
TOM: Well, I would use a tile mastic, because the thinset is more of a leveling bed sometimes and I would use the tile mastic on the shower walls.
TOM: This way, you'll get good adhesion. And make sure you use a glue trowel on it, because it really requires the glue to stand up a little bit to be able to grab the edge of the tile.
LESLIE: Mary in Delaware needs some help with a painting project. What can we do for you?
MARY: Love your show. Wouldn't miss it.
LESLIE: Thanks.
TOM: OK. Thank you.
MARY: I have – oh, it's a brick wall down in the basement.
TOM: Mm-hmm. Concrete-block walls?
MARY: Yes. And I'd like to repaint them but I'd like to have them scrubbed down first.
TOM: Why do you want to scrub them down? Are you a very tidy person?
MARY: Well, there's some black marks on them.
TOM: They're black marks? Is it because somebody was drawing on it or is it – are you concerned about any …?
MARY: No, I don't. No, I don't do that kind of thing anymore.
TOM: OK. Well, I don't think you have to scrub down walls. If you have any moisture that's gotten through the walls, it could have left some mineral deposits on it.
MARY: I think that's what it is.
TOM: OK. Well, you can just brush that off; that's not a problem. If you want to rinse it with anything, you can use a little bit of a vinegar-and-water solution. That will also make it come off.
MARY: Oh, OK.
TOM: And once it's really, really dry, then you can use an epoxy paint on those walls or damp-proofing paint on those walls.
MARY: Oh, how about DRYLOK?
TOM: Yeah, that's the same sort of thing.
LESLIE: Same type of thing.
TOM: It's a damp-proofing paint.
TOM: And that's fine. Very high odor, so make sure you ventilate the space very, very well. And what you want to do is get a fan – like a room fan – and see if you can stick it in front of the window so you're always pumping – pulling some air out of it, sort of depressurize the space, so you have a draft sort of going through the whole basement while you work. That will make it a lot more pleasant.
If you have the fan sort of – you can even sort of hang it up on the ceiling, in front of the window, so it blows out. And then open the door from the upstairs and that'll cause a draft, where the air will kind of wash through the basement and push out. That makes that whole painting process a lot more pleasant.
MARY: Oh, I thank you for that tip.
TOM: You're welcome.
MARY: And I thank you for being there for all – I'm a long-time listener.
LESLIE: Excellent.
MARY: And I tell all my friends about you and I think they're all listening, too. Keep up the good work and God bless you both.
LESLIE: You, too.
TOM: Thank you, Mary.
You are tuned to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. Up next, spring means warmer weather but it also means that the pests are back in full force. We're going to have some tips on how you can control those little buggers before they get out of control in your home, after this.
[audio timestamp: 0:31:52]
(theme song)
TOM: This is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Get all your spring and summer pest-control questions answered at MoneyPit.com. Everything we've ever written about pest control is available. It's free and it's at your fingertips when you search "pests" at MoneyPit.com.
LESLIE: That's right. And while you're online, you can post a question to our Community section. And pests were clearly on the mind of Steve who posted: "The stink bugs that went away for the winter are now back. How do I get rid of them?"
Now, these are terrible, gross bugs, Tom, right? That if you happen to crush them, they just smell awful, right?
TOM: They are. They smell terrible. And apparently, though, they can fly south for the winter so I guess they're back now, here in the Northeast.
LESLIE: Ugh. And you know what? The worst is if you look them up online – because when I heard the question, I had never actually seen one. I'd heard the myth of the stink bugs. They're actually kind of pretty. And if you see something that's orange with a colorful section in the center of a band of black-and-white striping in the center, don't crush them; try to kill them intact, if that's possible, or just get them out of there.
TOM: Well, that's right. And you can do all the same, basic things that you do with any kind of pest-control steps in your house: of sealing up gaps and that sort of thing. But if you really need to get rid of them, you need to use a chemical and you can't do it yourself; you have to have a pro do it. But it's cypermethrin; that's the type of chemical that will kill off the stink bug population and stop them from coming back.
But other than that, just clean them up by vacuuming them. As Leslie said, do not crush them because the odor will not be pleasant. Hence, the name "stink bug."
LESLIE: Yeah. And I think if you happen to, say, crush them on drywall or on the carpets – something that's more porous – the stink that's in them – and that certainly does suck, so that would be a This Sucks Month story. So the stink bug, if you get their oils or whatever it is that contains that odor, it could saturate into that surface if it's slightly permeable. And you'll never get that funk out of your wall, carpet, whatever you happen to squish one on, so really just be super-careful if you do have them. And call somebody right away.
Alright, next up, Eugene from New York posted: "I had my house sided with vinyl siding. When the sun hits the siding or the temperature changes outside, I hear rippling and creaking sounds. It has woken me up at night because it's pretty loud. What could be the cause of this and is there any way to fix it?"
TOM: Wow.
LESLIE: Do you think it's too tight?
TOM: I know exactly what the cause is and that's exactly right: it's put on too tight. Now, vinyl siding has a very, very large expansion-and-contraction rate. And that's why, if you look at a piece of vinyl siding, it doesn't have nail holes in it; it has nail slots. And a pro installer is not supposed to take that last smack with the hammer and attach it to the house; they leave it loose so it can easily sort of slide back and forth.
So the noise that you're hearing is probably because the siding's on too tight. And the fact that it looks wavy is further evidence of this because as it expands, of course, it has nowhere to go so it gets kind of wavy and buckle-y.
So, vinyl siding has those issues and the way to solve it is basically to take the siding off and rehang it. You can't sort of make it looser nail by nail. But I think this is just a bad installation and that's going to be the only way to permanently fix it.
LESLIE: So, really, rehang it.
You think the best step is to sort of get that guy back in and have them evaluate their work or get an inspector?
TOM: Well, yeah. Yeah. But you know what? Who's going to evaluate their work and say, "Oh, yeah. I really put it on wrong. I'll take it all off and replace it." But that's what has to happen. If it's on too tight, it's on too tight. You can't make it looser any other way.
LESLIE: Alright. I hope that helps. You know, really, with vinyl siding, you do need to make sure the proper steps are taken. So, ask the questions, get that pro back in there and make them redo the work so that it looks good and it doesn't keep you and your neighbors up all night long.
TOM: This is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. Thank you so much for spending this hour with us. Happy Spring, everybody. Hope that you're going to get a lot done in your money pit this weekend. We certainly are.
We're actually going to install some doors, Leslie.
LESLIE: Alright. I like that project.
TOM: Been putting it off but the 1886 house is ready for some new entryways and that is the project du jour for the week.
Thank you so much for spending the hour with us. We hope that you will get your projects done successfully, with a bit of help from us. If you need to reach us 24-7, the number is 1-888-MONEY-PIT. Leave a message right there; we'll call you back the next time we produce the show. And always online at MoneyPit.com.
I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Remember, you can do it yourself ...
LESLIE: But you don't have to do it alone.
[audio timestamp: 0:36:30]
(theme song)
(Copyright 2011 Squeaky Door Productions, Inc. No portion of this transcript or audio file may be reproduced in any format without the express written permission of Squeaky Door Productions, Inc.)


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Lanvin Leather Buckle Bootie
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Item # 279898
With intricately crafted designs, Lanvin is one of the top fashion houses in the world. You can expect nothing less than luxurious perfection when you slip into this leather ankle bootie.
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text:
LINKP Kenny Rogers 5
C Ivan Rodriguez 12
1B Mark Teixeira 2
2B Mark Grudzielanek 1
SS Derek Jeter 3
3B Eric Chavez 6
OF Torii Hunter 6
OF Ichiro Suzuki 6
OF Vernon Wells 3
LINKP Kenny Rogers 5
C Ivan Rodriguez 12
1B Mark Teixeira 2
2B Mark Grudzielanek 1
SS Derek Jeter 3
3B Eric Chavez 6
OF Torii Hunter 6
OF Ichiro Suzuki 6
OF Vernon Wells 3
Joe Crede doesn't break through at 3B even though Chavez had a down year. That's got to be frustrating. Didn't realize Teixeira was that good with the leather.
'When I'm not longer rapping, I want to open up an ice cream parlor and call myself Scoop Dogg.'
-Snoop on his retirement
Your Mom is happy.
Dial has Crede 4th in his rankings. Jeter is 12th in the AL. Just for fun, he has Hatteberg tagged as the #1 NL First Baseman.
The Gold Glove announcement ranks up there with Mr. Blackwell's Worst Dressed list.
I love hearing somebody's resume when it includes these things: All-Star Game MVP, All-Star, or Gold Glove.
"Reality tells us there are no guarantees. Except that some day Jon Lester will be on that list of 100-game winners." - Peter Gammons
There is no such thing as a pitching prospect.
I didn't watch all ChiSox games, but the games I did Joe Crede was amazing. Chavez is a great fielder, but I don't see how anyone was better than Crede.
This is the time. The real Reds organization is back.
I've always liked Eric Chavez, but honestly, nobody was better in the AL at third this year than Joe Crede. Oh well, maybe next year Joe.
At lunch the last several weeks, since it's been gorgeous outside, I've been grabbing a bite, and sitting in my car with the sunroof down & windows open listening to MLB radio while avoiding the grind.
Today, Kevin Kennedy tried to defend the giving of Gold Gloves to Rafeal Palmerio long after he had become a full time DH, and it was hella painful.
His argument, was that Palmerio was the 2nd best behind Don Mattingly for seemingly forever. And Mattingly always won the Gold Glove. So after he retired, he got a few gimmies as pay backs.
Dumbest argument I've ever possibly heard. And makes me think even worse about the whole Gold Glove Process.
Buster Olney was on XM a few weeks ago, talking about the GG award. Said that he's been in clubhouses, where the ballot was being filled out like so.
Manager - "So 3rd base - who did we see that was real good at 3rd base this year"
Coach - "Scott Rolen - he was real good"
Manager & Staff "Rolen - yeah he's a good choice"
*Writes down Scott Rolen*
The interviewer thought Olney was joking - and he said he only wishes he was.
Stunning, if only we didn't already have that inkling about the award.
How does Gary Matthews Jr not win a gold glove? Didn't he have a spectacular year defensively?
Brandon Inge had a great year as well.
"My mission is to be the ray of hope, the guy who stands out there on that beautiful field and owns up to his mistakes and lets people know it's never completely hopeless, no matter how bad it seems at the time. I have a platform and a message, and now I go to bed at night, sober and happy, praying I can be a good messenger." -Josh Hamilton
Board Moderators may, at their discretion and judgment, delete and/or edit any messages that violate any of the following guidelines: 1. Explicit references to alleged illegal or unlawful acts. 2. Graphic sexual descriptions. 3. Racial or ethnic slurs. 4. Use of edgy language (including masked profanity). 5. Direct personal attacks, flames, fights, trolling, baiting, name-calling, general nuisance, excessive player criticism or anything along those lines. 6. Posting spam. 7. Each person may have only one user account. It is fine to be critical here - that's what this board is for. But let's not beat a subject or a player to death, please.


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Reef Gypsy Love Flip Flop
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Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 262355
Reef knows beach-wear and the Gypsy Love Flip Flop is no exception. This is the perfect sandal to slide on for anything from errands to fun in the sun!
- Woven fabric upper
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- Imported
- View more Women's Reef Shoes
By: StevieRaye
Location: Atlanta, GA
July 12, 2014
Love reefs
"I love these flip flops. The colors are bright and summery on top and I love the bright pink underside. The straps are wide and comfortable and there is just enough squish in the flip flop to make them comfortable to wear all day. I also like that they don't get slippery when they get wet."
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Bearing 33082ZTN9, SKF
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Our Warhammer Class Overview series continues this week as MMORPG.com Managing Editor Jon Wood speaks with WAR Combat and Careers Strike Team Lead about the High Elf Swordmaster class.
Late last week, I had a quick opportunity to sit down to talk with Adam Gershowitz, the Combat and Careers Strike Team Load over at EA Mythic about this class in our continuing Class Overview series.
The Swordmaster of Hoeth (name generally shortened just to Swordmaster) is a formidable opponent. Master of the blade, she has the ability to cut her foes down not only with the cold steel in her hands, but also through the mysteries of magic.
Read the whole article here.
Jon Wood
Managing Editor
no clicky on here
lol now it is
Those hands in the pics are a little too big and awkward, but sounds like a pretty fun class.
A human and an Elf get captured by Skaven. The rat-men are getting ready to shoot the first hostage with Dwarf-made guns when he yells, "Earthquake!" The naturally nervous Skaven run and hide from the imaginary threat. He escapes. The Skaven regroup and bring out the Elf. Being very smart, the Elf has figured out what to do. When the Skaven get ready to shoot, the Elf, in order to scare them, yells, "Fire!"
Order of the White Border.
This game has taken just too damn long to come to fruition. I have lost all interest. Now to change my avatar...
Path of Khaine eh?
I'm not here to complete my forum PVP dailies.
Typo found:
"The Swrodmaster's mastery paths are as follows:"
And no, my eyes are not used to reading like a normal person.
Cool class, but I bet it will fail like most "elven" dodge based tank classes games have to offer. :O
Awesome!!! We need more MMO's with elves....
Elves... yay. Somehow I feel like its groundhog day.
Originally posted by Darkz0r
Typo found:
"The Swrodmaster's mastery paths are as follows:"
And no, my eyes are not used to reading like a normal person.
Cool class, but I bet it will fail like most "elven" dodge based tank classes games have to offer. :O
I bet you'll fail at being an elven swordmaster in RL.
"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one ..." - Thomas Paine
Sounds like the tanks have alot more to offer than your standard taunt>swing>shield bash. Looks great!
Interesting Tank design. Sounds like it will be challenging to play.
I have seen allot of classes that just plain look cool for this game!
WAR - Lots
Vanguard - Lots
WoW - LOTS
Looks like a fantastic class!
I can't wait to disembowel the fruity lot of them
Oh man, this is aweome! I can't tell you how long I have been waiting for this! I can't believe that an MMO company has FINALLY put elves with swords into one of their games! This is the game I've been waiting for!
OMG!!! I just read up more on this Warhammer Online. Apparently they have Orcs and Dwarves too! This is so incredibly badass! Talk about cutting edge stuff! To top it all off this game *might* even hit the shelves by 2010! Great stuff here! Thanks for keeping us posted!
(sorry, some things i just can't help )
Originally posted by Jetrpg
Originally posted by Darkz0r
Typo found:
"The Swrodmaster's mastery paths are as follows:"
And no, my eyes are not used to reading like a normal person.
Cool class, but I bet it will fail like most "elven" dodge based tank classes games have to offer. :O
I bet you'll fail at being an elven swordmaster in RL.
ditto. I'll NEVER be an elven swordmaster. ;_;
Swordmasters = extremely effeminate Jedi with a little Sephiroth thrown in.
Is it bad that they're the only High Elf class I'm looking forward to?
*flips out and kicks ass*
Everythings standard pattern! This is the Imperial fething Guard! Standard pattern boots, standard pattern mess tins, standard pattern bodybags! Im a standard pattern infantryman, youre a standard pattern no-neck, and any second now my standard pattern fist is going to send your nose bone back into your very sub-standard pattern brain! Sergeant Ceglan Varl
I'm usually only good with tank classes and I'm already looking forward to playing as a Blackguard (Seems like it will play like WoW Warriors) and if they don't quite turn out as I hope I might play a swordmaster. They just sound like that will be a fun class overall. I like the idea of changing the elements of your sword and also being able to convert physical damage into magical damage.
Deviant Art: http://ramenninja.deviantart.com/
MMOs Played: EverQuest 1 and 2, Ryzom, Horizons/Istaria, Planetside (BFRs ruined it), WoW, GuildWars, CoH/CoV, Lineage 2, FFXI, Random free MMOs
Okay, so I was looking for some lore on the Swordmaster on Google and came across this. My Swordmaster isn't even 10 yet, but I'm not too sure this class lives up to the hype that was raised in this article. For one, it is a common argument that greatsword using SM's only get 5-15% more dmg than a s/s SM and that S/S is just better overall, which is contrary to the description given. I also haven't seen a ability that converts your regular dmg to magic dmg, but maybe I am looking in the wrong place. I'm looking for him to animate some casting motion that throws or touches a damaging spell upon his opponent. I received a sword attack that does spirit dmg, but I don't think this is worthy of they "covert physical dmg to magic dmg" hype in this article.
Lastly, they speak of deflecting arrows in the air. Are there any higher level SM's that can confirm this?
MMORPG's w/ Max level characters: DAoC, SWG, & WoW
Currently Playing: WAR
Preferred Playstyle: Roleplay/adventurous, in a sandbox game.


text:
Heelys Bolt Boys Toddler & Youth Lighted Skate Shoe
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Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 263740
At first glance, Heelys Bolt's design is pretty cool but what makes it really awesome is when it lights up as you walk. So lace 'em up and prepare to turn heads.
- Faux nubuck and pearlized patent upper
- Zig-zag velcro closure for easy on/off
- Lightning bolt design with motion activated LED's that light up when you walk
- Removable foam sock with foam rubber heel pad for added cushioning
- 2X2 double wheels with ABEC 1 bearings
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By: YSKM
Location: california
April 19, 2013
my kid's favorite!
"This heely's is my child's favorite shoes! This is the second one for him."
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text:
Sedu Pro Ionic Ceramic Tourmaline Straightener (1", 220-240V, Plug Type G)
- Overview
- Features
- Patented Ultra Smooth 1 inch plates
- Ceramic/Tourmaline plates produces 6 times the amount of negative ions to reduce straightening time and frizz
- Infra-red heat technology seals hair's moisture and luster
- Adjustable Temperature control from 240F - 410F
- Fast heat up time, reaches desired temperature in 25 seconds from being turned on
- 9 foot professional cord
- 2 year warranty
- Place the appliance on a heatproof mat
- Plug the appliance into a wall outlet
- Select temperature setting. Move the switch to "ON" position. (The styler will be ready to use in 40 - 60 seconds when light starts blinking
- When lowering the temperature, light will temporarily go off while cooling down. Styler is ready to use again when light is blinking.
- Turn the power off after usage
- Allow appliance to cool and keep out of reach of children. NEVER wrap cord around the iron since this will cause cord to break prematurely. Avoid jerking bending or twisting cord, especially at plug and iron connection points. A heatproof pouch is suggested for storing purposes. Do not store iron at full heat in pouch, allow to cool. Unplug iron prior to storing in pouch.
- About the brand
Attention: This hair straightener is NOT for use in USA/Canada/Mexico.
Rated the Best Hair Straightener on the market and preferred by top hair stylists around the world, Sedu flat iron straightens, smoothes and tames frizzy or rebellious hair for long-lasting results. Sedu's patented ultra-smooth ceramic/tourmaline plates guarantee smooth straightening motion without pulling or breaking of hair. 1 inch plate size gives added control, ideal for short to medium hair.
Attention: This hair straightener is NOT for use in USA/Canada/Mexico.This model works in the following countries:
Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belize, Bhutan, Brunei, Channel Islands, China, Cyprus, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Great Britain, Grenada, Guyana, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland (Eire), Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Macau, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Nigeria, Northern Ireland, Oman, Qatar, St. Kitts and Nevis (Leeward Is.), St. Lucia (Windward Is.), Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Tanzania, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Attention: This hair straightener is NOT for use in USA/Canada. Click here to see models designed for USA/Canada/Mexico.
Sedu is a world-renowned beauty brand with a reputation for unsurpassed quality and reliability. Its hair styling tools have always been developed with a focus on long-term maintenance of healthy hair. Each Sedu product is designed with the professional stylist in mind and features only the essentials, striking the perfect balance between high performance and effortless results.
Tried Them All....no ContestAfter having spent close to 4 months on a quest to find the worlds finest flat iron hair straighteners I have to say the Sedu takes the title for me which is a pain because they come from the USA and are certainly not the cheapest option. Endlessly I trawled through internet review sites, made comparative lists of readily available high street irons as opposed to specialist professional ones, and spoke in depth about the merits of different brands with hairdressers and friends. I tried the Remington teflon fabric straightener which was good but tended to drag through my hair and seemed a little too bulky to get close to the roots of my short style. I tried the Tresemme jade straightener which again I found to be a little bulky but instantly more effective than my babyliss slim straighteners which pleased me until I found that after some use they proved to be nowhere near as kind at the higher heat settings I need to tame my wavy locks - even with the use of a heat protection spray, and I found that it was safer to stick with my babyliss which I can trust never to break my hair even without the insurance of a heat protection product. I tried GHD and then FHI 232 Heat, both supplied by my hairdresser. The GHD I found to be on par with the Tresemme jade although the plates resisted product build up far better but the FHI were pure evil breaking my poor Mums hair so badly she now has a halo. For the sake of the health of my hair I felt resigned to sticking with my £19.99 babyliss and a good iron cleaner. That was until I took a chance and ordered the Sedu. When they arrived (very quickly thank you Folica) I felt a bit let down because the design is not the most robust looking that I have seen. The temperature dial especially looks like something on a childs toy but with an under 10 second heat up barely giving me the time to apply my heat protector I passed them once through an inch wide section of hair and watched as it transformed from frizzy and fly away to poker straight and smooth with no build up at all. With all the other irons I have tried my hair reverted back to its unruly natural state after I had slept on it once. Not with the Sedu. I can do flips and curls and it stays straight until I wash it again resulting in less need to use the heat daily. I get better results with the Sedu at 160 than I did with all the other irons where 160 did nothing and I needed to crank it up to 200. My hair is dyed black with a few bleached streaks and the Sedu somehow took my washed out faded colour back to black and Ive had comments that my hair has never looked so straight. Like many of you reading this now I was dubious about the merits of the Sedu and wondered if the good reviews were just a pile of sales bunkum and would they be worth the money? But I can say that seriously this is the best straight iron of them all and far kinder than other brands that promise the same merits, tourmaline and ionic etc. I was charged a customs fee when these came which made them far more expensive than I would have liked. Also if you need to return them with folica you have to pay shipping costs which is not ideal for those of us in the UK. But if youre really seriously fed up with going through straighteners only to find a new problem with each one then look no further because the Sedu is the answer to your prayers! Dont waste hours trwaling the reviews like I did just take my word for it having done just that. The Sedu is the one that you want!Jul 8, 2007Kate / Sussex, England
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Sedu Ionic Ceramic Tourmaline Straightener (uk Edition, 1")These are fab straighteners and work best on my fine hair if I use a hair serum (I use a high street one in a pink bottle but cant remember make) I then blow dry my hair with a paddle brush and straighten. Much better than my old Braun professionals but doesnât go as straight as I hoped. My friends have since commented on how nice my hair looks when I go out but I notice bits at the back which will not go flat but they are straighter. My hair is layered so this is probably why some bits look more textured. My hair stays put after using these straighteners. See the picture, the front looks great but I have some naughty flicks at the back but hey how many people who care look at the back of your head?May 21, 2007Rach / South Yorkshire
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Free GiftForgot to mention, free gifts were great and service was fantastic. I was emailed progress of my order at each stage and I seem to remember it only took a few days if not less to UK.May 21, 2007Rach / South Yorkshire
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Sedu Hair Sraighteners UkGreat product and superb service from Folica.Quickly received, and even a surprise free gift. Had a query and it was answered immediately. Really pleased, thanks.Apr 19, 2007Debbie / Uk
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Great ProductFirst I must commend Folica on a great service. This flat iron is really brilliant, bring out the shine in my hair, making it really smooth and silky. Thumbs up.Feb 24, 2007Diahnne / London
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The Best EverI just got this Sedu hair straightener for my b-day...and it is the BEST EVER! I have used other straighteners but they take HOURS!!!! This one, for my very very curly hair takes about 30 minutes or less! Its amazing! All of my friends want it! I tell them its worth the money! And hey, IT WORKS!!!!!!!! It also leaves your hair un-staticy, smooth, and strong! No burn smell!If you werent sure about buying this Sedu straightener I hope you are now!Dec 11, 2006S. Nelson / NJ
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Good Product OverallI recently moved to the UK, and searched far and wide for an iron that would work here. The biggest advantage for the Sedu is that it has the adjustable temperature, so you are not always frying your hair. I have a lot of very thick hair, so I wish it was a little bit wider, BUT, I can get really close to the scalp with it, and get those really fussy short ones, which helps a lot.Dec 11, 2006Jill / London, England
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Best Hair Straightener - SeduThis Sedu straightener is really good! Excellent! This product doesnt cause damage to my hair unlike some other hair straighteners. My hair doesnt feel dry. It takes about 10 to 15 mins to get my hair all straightened out. However, I would recommend the use of a hair straightening gel or cream before using any hair straightening iron. Another plus point with Sedu is that it is ligh-weight, heats up fast. I would definitely recommend this product to my friends Doris SingaporeNov 12, 2006Doris / Singapore
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Even Better Than I Expected!I became a Chi flat iron devotee earlier this year, and couldnt bear the thought of going to London on holiday without it. Unfortunately you cant use a converter for the Chi, nor was I able to locate a UK version, so I ultimately decided to take a chance on the Sedu. It paid off! This iron quickly straightens even the most stubborn hair and leaves it silky smooth and straight for hours. In fact, my hair stayed straight even during the days when the air was misty with rain. It stayed straight until I washed it again. i love that the heat settings are adjustable. The iron just glides through your hair. Actually, I prefer this iron to my regaular ceramic Chi.Oct 24, 2006Tara / Oakland, CA
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Sedu Ionic Ceramic Tourmaline StraightenerI was recommended by a friend to buy these straighteners and I have to say I dont know how I managed without them. They are brilliant! They make my hair really smooth and silky. Theyre really light and easy to use. I wash my hair and leave it to dry on an evening then straighten in the morning. Easy and very quick. Would highly recommend them to anyone.Sep 29, 2006Anonymous / England
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