(Summer 2008) - Ask the Home Expert

Our house was built in 1991 and has very inefficient energy saving glass. What is the benefit to changing out my glass to high quality LOW-E glass?

Assuming you have "insulated" glass in your current window system and the fact that it was installed in 1991. The reality is all insulated glass will need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years. The components of this decision are: glass technology has been greatly enhanced, government tax and readily available rebate incentives to improve your home and to potentially save on your energy bill is becoming more significant.

Danny Davis - Arrow Glass & Mirror - 512-336-0400

I have just recently inherited an oil painting that was passed down from a family member. It is in need of restoration. Can you help me with this process?

Artworks started cleaning, varnishing and restoring oil paintings shortly after opening its doors in January 1985. We take great care with this process, knowing what each painting means to the customer who brings it in. We utilize materials and techniques that date back hundreds of years. Our restoration department will provide you with a guide to the step-by-step process of what will be done to bring that old family painting back to life. We also specialize in restoring antique frames.

Tom Robinson - Artworks - 512-472-1550

I am trying to decide if I want to use wool or synthetic carpet in my bedrooms. What is the better choice?

Wool is the premier fiber and looks and cleans better than synthetics over time, just as your good wool clothing does. Your choices of pattern and color in wool carpeting are infinitely greater than in nylon. Wool feels better, emits no VOCs and is the ultimate green fiber. However, wool is a more expensive fiber and therefore costs more than a nylon carpet of equal construction and quality. If budget rules, I would suggest a good nylon over a very light weight wool or wool/acrylic blend.

Wyoma Craghead - CDC Carpets & Interiors - 512-327-8326

How do I care for my new leather couch and what products do you recommend?

Routinely wipe leather with a damp sponge or dust it with a clean cloth. Keep leather at least 12 inches away from direct heat sources to avoid cracking and peeling. Blot liquid spills with a clean, dry, cloth. Remove other spills with a damp sponge. We recommend Guardsman Products. Your Drexel Heritage retailer will also be able to help you select the perfect cleaning and protection products.

Harry Phillips - Drexel Heritage - 512-454-0431

We are updating our garage doors to wood, what are my options?

Our custom-made wood, overhead garage doors conform to or highlight the designs of most homes. Western Red Cedar is our most common material for our custom-made wood garage doors; however, we utilize several other species including Cypress, African Mahogany, Spanish Cedar and a variety of other exotic hardwoods.

Hill Country Garage Doors provides our wood doors in three finish options: Grade I - Rustic, unfinished wood doors; Grade II - Stained garage door in a variety of color choices; Grade III - Premium hand rubbed finish in six finish options

G.D. Sanders - Hill Country Garage Doors - 512-977-7200