Anchor Bathroom Grab Bar Firmly

QUESTION: I had a company out to install a bathtub grab bar, but they could not locate the studs. They recommend other methods of installing a grab bar instead of attaching it to studs. What method do you recommend?

ANSWER: The only method I recommend for securing a grab bar is to fasten it to the studs. A person can exert considerable force on a grab bar, and if the bar is not adequately fastened, it will probably pull right out of the wall, rather than being loosened.

Many people mistake the washcloth rail on a ceramic soap dish as a grab bar. It is not designed for this. The only grab bar suitable for a bathtub is one made of stainless steel and secured to the studs. Instruments can be used to locate studs. If the company you called cannot locate the studs, perhaps you should call another company.

Crumbling Mortar Joints Can Be Fixed

Q: The mortar joints on the brick walls of my house are dried and crumbling. How can I repair this?

A: The repair procedure for mortar joints on brick is known as “tuck pointing.” Start by chipping all the loose mortar from the joints with a cold chisel and hammer to a depth of at least 1 inch. Clean away dust and chips with a water jet and wire brush. In areas where failing water is causing mortar leaks, remove the bricks and clean mortar from remaining bricks in the surrounding area.

Mix mortar from one part portland cement, one-half part hydrated lime, 4 1/2 parts sand and enough water so that the mixture can be compacted into a ball. Let it stand for one hour, then add enough water to make a stiff but workable paste. Dampen joints with clean water. Use a jointing tool to force the mortar into joints. As you compress the mortar and strike off the joints with the jointing tool, work in one direction only to avoid forming air pockets.

Maintenance Can Prevent Belt Breakage

Q: My upright vacuum goes through belts every two months. Is this normal? Is there anything I can do to extend the belt life?

A: Belt life is directly related to the care you give your upright vacuum cleaner. Here are maintenance tips to help get the most efficient performance from your vacuum:

It’s most important not to overfill its bag. These machines move a surprising amount of air for a small appliance, at least 60 to 70 cubic feet per minute. The bag filters out the dirt from the air stream and the air reenters the room. An overfilled bag greatly reduces cleaning efficiency. When you replace the bag, check that the exhaust port is clear.

Don’t pick up large debris with these machines; use a shop vacuum. Large debris can damage the fan and the bearings the brush rides on. Change the drive belt every four months. The belt stretches with use and a stretched belt slips on the brush, wasting energy and reducing cleaning ability.

Finally, the brushes run in the 5,000 r.p.m. range, so it won’t take long for hair and fibers to work under the end caps, straining the brush bearings and burning up the belt. Turn the vacuum over after every use and remove hair and fibers from the roller ends and from where the belt meets the roller.

To submit a question, write Popular Mechanics, Reader Service Bureau, 224 W. 57th St., New York, NY 10019.