Woodwork Novice Might Consider Kits

QUESTION: I like the look of period reproduction furniture with elaborate detailing. I’m just getting into woodworking and I’d like to try to build some of these interesting pieces. My problem is that my woodworking skills aren’t what you’d call “polished” at this point. Do you have any project suggestions?

ANSWER: Kit furniture is one way to get the satisfaction of making the pieces you want when you have limited woodworking skills. You’ll also save considerably over the cost of the same item that’s assembled and finished.

A large variety of period kit pieces available from various manufacturers include roll-top oak desks, Queen Anne highboys and even four-poster canopy beds.

Most kit furniture is easy to assemble as pieces are usually precut and sometimes sanded. Some manufacturers claim you can complete a chair in less than an hour and make a full chest of drawers (minus the finishing) in five hours.

Cracks in Marble Sink Beyond Repair

Q: Our cultured marble sink has developed tiny surface cracks that have spiraled out from the strainer and now they are getting longer. What can cause this and is there a fix?

A: Surface cracks near the drain can be caused by very hot water or over-tightening the drain fitting with a wrench rather than making it hand-tight.

Unfortunately, the cracks cannot be repaired.

Condensation Forms in Bathroom Duct

Q: I recently installed an exhaust fan in my bathroom, which I vented in the ridge vent. I must be having a condensation problem because I get a lot of water pouring out of the fan duct. How can I correct this?

A: You’re right on target. Condensation is occurring in the flexible duct when the warm moist air from the bathroom comes in contact with the colder air inside the duct. Usually the exhaust fan can move the air out fast enough to prevent condensation but this is not happening in your case.

Try reducing the length of the flexible duct. This will result in a higher temperature of the discharging air, which may be enough to eliminate condensation. If this fails, your problem can be solved by insulating the duct.

For further information write to Popular Mechanics, Readers Service Bureau, 224 W. 57th St., New York, N.Y. 10019.