The Family
READER LETTERS section for September 1989
Mortgage Pay-off
I enjoyed your article "Pay Off Your Mortgage Twice As Fast" (May/June'80). There are computer programs available that
will list the original amortization schedule and an accelerated schedule showing the result of additional payments.
A normal amortization schedule requires the following information: loan amount, rate of interest, term and first
payment. Our computer program requires two additional facts: the additional monthly payment and the date the regular
payment was applied. The result of a lump sum payment may also be shown, or a combination of both - additional payment
and one-time lump amount. The Mortgage Acceleration Schedules (MAP) are available from MacDaf, Dept. FH, 11837 Spruce
Haven Drive, St. Louis, Mo. 63141. Cost is $5 per run plus $ 1 postage for an original and copy of the computer
schedule.
E.L.D., St. Louis, Mo.
Future redwoods
In your Reader Letters section in the April, '80 issue, a reader advocated a ban on the use of redwood-constructed
furniture because "other and more plentiful wood species can be substituted in place of the already scarce redwood."
We share the concerns of J. L. and others. In our "Redwood Book of Could," excerpted in the same issue (page 16), we
feature information on modem-day forest practices designed to ensure the availability of redwoods for future
generations. We explain that the growth of redwoods has doubled since commercial harvesting began. Researchers in
forest genetics are reproducing redwood trees with superior characteristics at a faster rate of growth, thus improving
the future quality and productivity of redwood forests.
D. K. Loth, Simpson Timber Co.
Reviving siding
I'm among the many San Francisco residents who installed aluminum siding several years ago and who are now faced with
color deterioration. Although we've washed it down periodically over the last 15 or 20 years, time and our Bay Area
saltwater have faded the original colors. We've asked a variety of sources for information on how to prepare the
aluminum for painting, what type of paint to use, and the best way to apply it. So far, we haven't received any solid
answers. Some experts recommend scrubbing with trisodium phosphate and water, while others advise other types of
chemical baths. Any other suggestions?
J. B. N., San Francisco, Calif.
Two new products for renovating aluminum siding were featured in "The $60 Solution " in our April '80 issue. "Tackle" is designed to remove chalked paint, and "Guard Clear Coating" seals the siding and restores the luster of existing paint. These products aren 't a cure-all, but they might be worth a try. You can get samples of both products by writing to Aminco Industries, Dept. FH, 7533 Washington Ave. So.. Minneapolis, Minn. 55435.
Tiled garage
Since I've just renewed my subscription for another year, I don't have to tell you how much I enjoy your magazine.
However, your "Ask Handyman" section in the April '80 issue advised a reader to avoid tiling his garage floor.
Nearly 26 years ago, I had four boxes of left-over asphalt tile and, after buying three more boxes, tiled my garage.
I've never regretted it. If wiped up, road salt and oil smears don't affect it, and the waterproof below-grade cement
I used is still holding up well. However, when tires are hot from summer driving, the tire heat causes minor shrinkage
in the tile, but the gaps between tiles are only about 1/4" wide.
R. R. S., Willow Grove, Pa.
Applause, applause
I'm utterly impressed with my free gift booklet, "The FAMILY HANDYMAN's Answer Book," that I received by ordering a
new subscription. I want to congratulate you for a product so well geared to the hundreds of thousands of people like
myself who enjoy working around the house.
G. K. P., Hinton, W. Va.
Spool furniture
I've just read your terrific article, "Here Comes Summer" in the April '80 issue. Here's another easy, inexpensive
project: A patio/deck table constructed from a utility cable spool. Public utilities have hundreds of surplus wooden
cable spools, which they often give away or sell at low prices. After you obtain your spool, simply sand, varnish
or paint it. The spools also have a center hole that's dandy for a big patio umbrella. Incidentally, the spools come
in a variety of heights and can be adapted for children or low-slung garden chairs.
M. N., Annandale, Va.
Stained glass
I enjoy the various hobby articles in your magazine, and would like to see more on stained .glass. I've built two
stained glass windows and a Tiffany lamp, and it's an extremely relaxing hobby for any handy person.
S. K., Rochester, N.Y.
Apartment-style projects
Just a note to let you know how pleased my husband is with the gift subscription I gave to him. We're city apartment
dwellers, and he has completed several small projects for the apartment, thanks to the articles in THE FAMILY HANDYMAN.
But the magazine's usefulness doesn't stop here. We send our copies to my daughter who resides in rural Alabama where
it is again read very enthusiastically. Incidentally, your little "Answer Book" is worth every penny of the
subscription cost.
Mrs. M. R., Rushing, N. Y.
Bug trap or birdhouse?
I read the article, "A Step By Step Deck" in your May/June issue. The gazebo photograph (upper left comer, p. 99)
caught my eye because of the "whatsis" sitting on a pole between the house and the gazebo. Is that object one of
those bug electrocutioners, or is it an avante garde Martin house? I've checked prices of store-bought birdhouses,
and there's gotta be a better way. If the "whatsis" is not a Martin house, have you any plans for some proven (ie,
swallow-approved) birdhouses?
R. Von H., New Canaan, Conn.
The "whatsis" is the Charmglow insect control unit we mentioned in the story. Although The Family Handyman has developed a number of project plans, we don't have plans for a Martin house as yet. Hammond Barns, Box 548, 3130 Hardacre Ct., Newcastle, Ind. 47362, offers a variety of plans, including birdhouses, in barn shape. Send 25¢ for their brochure, which lists their entire line.
Self-sufficiency
I enjoy reading your magazine. I'm married and because my husband is away much of the time due to work, I have to
depend on myself for many repairs. I am also a fulltime college student so I enjoy articles on projects that are
finished quickly. In future issues it would be great to see some articles geared to a woman's point of view.
J. C., Harding, ILL.
page 4 SEPTEMBER 1960/THE FAMILY HANDYMAN