Answers @ Ace: Tips And Hints

Almost daily we are asked both common, and not-so-common, questions. We thought we'd create a page to share some of them with you. Hopefully you'll find the questions and answers informative and helpful. Check back often as we'll keep adding to the list.

Send us your questions! We're here to help!


What is the best time of day to water my lawn & plants?
Water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. -- when the sun is low, winds are calm and temperatures are cool. Mid-day watering tends to be less efficient because of water loss due to evaporation and windy conditions during the day. Watering in the evening isn't a good idea either because leaves can remain wet overnight - an open invitation for fungus to grow. By watering in the morning, leaves have a chance to dry out during the day.

Weber product packaging AND part numbers have changed. How do I know which part number my model uses?
Unfortunately ALL the Weber part numbers have changed. You can call the store for help locating the right replacement piece/part or use the cross-reference chart to for a quick reference.

Should a natural bristle brush be used with latex paint?
No. Just as humid weather can make someone's hair frizzy, water-based paints can frizz natural-bristle brushes. You'll want to use a synthetic brush with latex paint. Natural bristle brushes have split ends called flags, which help hold the paint in the brush so that it is released throughout the stroke instead of all at once. They are best for most oil-based finishes including varnishes and stains. Their soft tips leave fewer brush marks.

Can I drill a hole in concrete?
Yes, a high-speed masonry bit can be used on concrete, concrete block, cinder block, brick or stone.

I've removed some wallpaper, but how can I clean off the remaining glue residue?
Use a solution of TSP (Tri Sodium Phosphate) and warm water. Wear rubber gloves, scrub with a brush and rinse well.

How do I take care of my pruning tools?
Keep them clean and sharp. Wipe them down with light oil after use. Oil their pivot points and blades. Also, you could drop your pruning tools (and other items that need sharpening) off at Bennett Valley Ace Hardware for a thorough cleaning and sharpening.
Contact the store for more information
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Can epoxy be thinned?
Use acetone, which is the active ingredient in many paint strippers. It will soften most paints and plastics so exercise extreme caution when you are using it.

What type of switches will turn on a light from two different locations?
You'll need a three-way switch at each location. The "three-way" references each switch location and the item you are controlling for a total of three items. A three-way switch will have three terminal screws on it.

I need a good stepladder. What should I consider?
Wood stepladders are sturdy and the least expensive, but they are heavy. Aluminum stepladders are lightweight but more expensive than wood stepladders. Fiberglass stepladders combine strength and light weight and are the most expensive.

What do the three numbers on the bags and boxes of fertilizer mean?
They represent the relative weight of the three major nutrients plants need the product contains. These numbers are always expressed in the same order.

  • 1st number = Nitrogen encourages vigor and foliage growth. Stunted growth or plants with pale yellow leaves are symptoms of nitrogen deficiency.
  • 2nd number = Phosphorous promotes a strong root system, stem growth, flowering, seed and fruit production. Older leaves exhibit bluish or purplish tinges from phosphorous deficiency.
  • 3rd number = Potassium controls the absorption of water. This helps plants withstand environmental stress (heat, cold, wind and disease). Leaves can appear dry or burnt at the edges in potassium starved plants.

 

 

 

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