Ask This Old House

Installing a new radiator/towel bar warmer
Richard helped a homeowner remove an old "convector" heater and replace it with a new radiator that also doubles as towel warmer. The homeowner wanted to replace the old convector in his bathroom with something smaller and more attractive. Richard first drained the water out of the heating supply lines and used a reciprocating saw to remove the old convector. He then cut open the floor and relocated the copper supply pipes so they would be in the right position for connecting to the new radiator. Richard then reinstalled the subfloor and determined the correct location for the wall brackets that hold the radiator against the wall. Finally, he tightened all the connections and re-filled the system.

Where to find it:
The radiator that Richard installed is manufactured in Europe by:
Vasco

Vasco towel bar radiators are available in the United States from:
Hydronic Alternatives, Inc.
413-543-8733

How to use hand planes
Up in the loft, Tom showed Kevin several different types of hand planes and how to use them. There were two basic types, "bench" planes and "block" planes. Tom explained that "bench" planes are used on a workbench for shaving larger pieces of wood. "Block" planes are small and portable, perfect for adjusting miters or un-sticking a wooden door.

Where to Find It
The hand planes Tom showed were manufactured by:
Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, Inc.
800.435.0786
Hand planes of all types can also be found at your local home center or woodworking supply store.

Controlling crabgrass
Roger helped a homeowner who complained of crabgrass growing on his lawn. Crabgrass is an unattractive weed that spreads quickly during hot weather and can rapidly take over a lawn. Roger explained that the best way to discourage crabgrass is to maintain a healthy and thick lawn because a thick lawn will shade the soil, making it difficult for crabgrass seeds to germinate. The best time of year to Improve a lawn is in the fall because the crabgrass dies, making it easier for new grass seed to germinate and thicken the lawn.

Where to Find It
Several of the products that Roger discussed are available from Jonathan Green Lawn and Garden Products.