jlo's Profile
Author's Posts
October 2, 2009
Paneling Maker?
I'm looking for someone who can construct paneling (that will be painted, not stained) in a brownstone dining room. Also need wainscoting going up a stairway. Anyone have a good recommendation? I would appreciate it.
Thanks.
September 20, 2009
Dog Poop
Our street has become overwhelmed by un-pooper-scooped dog poop -- it's everywhere! It seems that no one bothers to pick it up anymore. I am considering putting up flyers asking dog owners to PLEASE clean up after their dogs but I wonder if anyone out there has dealt with this issue and if there's anything to put on the flyer that would be effective in fixing this problem. Or, if there's a better idea than a flyer. Thanks!
August 12, 2009
Flies in the Ivy
I have window boxes with ivy in my ground floor windows and they seem to be attracting TONS of flies. Anyone know why and have any advice to get rid of them?
April 19, 2009
Neighbor's Consent?
I am about to do some facade work on my brownstone and my next door neighbor, who is a nightmare, is sure to make things difficult. Previously, he has said that we could not set foot on his property when we needed to paint. We worked around it then -- not easily -- but this time, for sure we will need to be on his property to chemically remove the facade's paint and then, to restore the wall to its original brownstone. This wall is the border of his areaway, although it is technically my wall.
So my question is this: does my neighbor need to give me access to do this work and if he doesn't, what recourse do I have? The mason doing the work can indemnify them on their insurance but should I write a letter advising them of the work and nicely ask them to allow access? Or do I act first and ask permission later? My fear is that if they don't allow us access the job cannot get done. What rights do I actually have?
April 7, 2009
I Need Masonry Work
My stoop steps were covered with multiple layers of paint rather than masonry material and as a result, they now have major chips and cracks. I need them chipped out, followed by new masonry.
Anyone have any good recommendations? Malek? Others?
March 24, 2009
Shutters Anyone?
I am interested in installing shutters for two of my front facing windows and I found various conversation threads here about different vendors but I am wondering if anyone ever used any of them personally. I went to Hunter Douglas and they quoted me $3000 for two sets of bi-fold 1 and 1/4 louver real wood shutters, manufactured and installed. Is that high? Thanks for any advice.
January 18, 2009
Firewood
Anyone know of a good resource for getting firewood delivered that isn't too expensive?
December 9, 2008
Iron Stoop Railings Available
I have two sets of exterior iron railing -- one going up my stoop stairs and one going down to the areaway -- plus a pair of cheek wall railings. All available. Best offer. Must be picked up on UWS. Photos available. Post email and I will be in touch.
Code on Iron Railings?
Hi everyone. I am planning to install new railings going up my stoop steps. My iron guy tells me the posts -- the vertical "spindles" perpendicular to the handrail -- need to be 4 inches apart. But others tell me that that code doesn't apply to single family homes. It's a Landmarked house but the Landmarks Preservation Commission doesn't know the answer either. I've tried to download the DOB code and I am baffled. Can anyone please offer any advice?
September 30, 2008
Transom Window Above Entryway Doors
I have a brand-new Marvin Windows entryway window -- the half circle window that is above exterior entryway doors -- that I won't be using and would like to sell. It measures 51" straight across the bottom; 26 1/4" from highest point of arch to bottom; and an 83" arch, end to end. Must be picked up on Upper West Side. Best offer. Photos available. Post your interest and I will be in touch. Thanks.
Author's Comments
I've used Hanan Nichmani. Reasonable and very talented. 646 319 4144.
Posted by: jlo at November 14, 2009 3:24 PM in response to Vinny's Ironworkers-Need Tel #
Do you have photographs of the mantels?
Posted by: jlo at September 26, 2009 10:38 AM in response to Antique Radiators & Mantels
Full disclosure: I am a traditionalist. I recently installed Horizon Shutters in my brownstone, in the street-facing basement level windows. They are extremely well-made and loads cheaper than the Hunter Douglas estimates I got, although you do have to self-install. From an interior and exterior perspective, they look like they belong with the house. Horizon also gave me great customer service. Totally happy with the results.
Posted by: jlo at September 17, 2009 11:40 AM in response to Shutters or Shades?
There's a book called "Dreaming Green" which features many green homes including the authors' own home, which is an entirely green townhouse on the Upper West Side. I met and spoke to them once and they said that solar isn't possible for everyone due to tall buildings compromising direct sunlight. However there are TONS of other "green" things you can do that are eco-friendly and cost-effective. I know this is kind of circuitous route to go but the book's author is an architect and green building is his specialty. If you find the book, you find him.
Posted by: jlo at August 24, 2009 3:56 PM in response to Energy Advisor?
I used Gotham Painting. doug@gothampainting.com
They are experts! Very happy with their work. They did my ceiling in 4 different B&B papers.
Posted by: jlo at August 13, 2009 2:17 PM in response to BRADBURY AND BRADBURY WALLPAPER
I will try all the above suggestions and let you know. The flies are big, not gnats, and the window boxes have drainage but with all the rain this summer, the soil may have become waterlogged and the drainage might not have been sufficient. Thank you for all these ideas. I'll get back to you!!
Posted by: jlo at August 12, 2009 10:55 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
No, it's not cats, Dave. They're in the ground floor windows but are at least 3-4 feet off the ground. And I've never seen cats on the street. The only thing I can think of is that fly eggs are in the soil...but how to get rid of them, I do not know.
Posted by: jlo at August 12, 2009 8:32 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
I have used Hanan Nichmani and I think he is great. 646 319 4144.
Posted by: jlo at May 6, 2009 2:53 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Ask and you shall receive. Thanks all...this is why I love brownstoner!
Posted by: jlo at April 19, 2009 5:45 PM in response to Neighbor's Consent?
Thank all of you!
Posted by: jlo at April 7, 2009 3:14 PM in response to I Need Masonry Work
We also used a project manager and it was a mistake. Basically all responsibility was delegated to the GC and my vision of this person "making the trains run on time" and thereby reducing my costs and length of construction, did not materialize. Plus, as many of these people claim knowledge of many trades but are not actually trained (or liscensed)in any of them, they still need to call in others -- all on your dime and with their mark up.
I have worked with more than one PM and my opinion is that the problem lies in the business model and not in the individual.
Posted by: jlo at March 29, 2009 2:38 PM in response to ANYONE USED A PROJECT MANAGER
Thanks to all who gave advice. Much appreciated.
Posted by: jlo at March 25, 2009 5:10 PM in response to Shutters Anyone?
I'm pretty set on shutters and I should have been clearer that these are interior shutters but the price is making me re-think my temporary paper shades.
Posted by: jlo at March 24, 2009 5:29 PM in response to Shutters Anyone?
It's the Butler and the Chef!
Posted by: jlo at March 3, 2009 1:27 PM in response to Looking For Used "Bistro Table"
There is an online resource called French General Store and a San Francisco-based bistro table place online called something "Chef." Sorry I can't remember exact name. But I broke down and ordered from TK Collections. Wish I could have been in on the group purchase!
Posted by: jlo at March 3, 2009 1:25 PM in response to Looking For Used "Bistro Table"
I like Gateway (Master Plumber) too.
Posted by: jlo at March 1, 2009 11:52 AM in response to Plumber reccommendation?
I had same situation. Thought it would easy and envisioned "chipping out" the hidden fireplace and voila: romantic evenings by the fire. Wrong. Huge job. Needed flue liner, exhaust fan and more, not to mention new hearth stone, mantle and firebox. Cost about 12K, not including decorative elements. Be prepared!
Posted by: jlo at February 27, 2009 7:36 PM in response to Opening up a fireplace
Do you have photos and dimensions?
Posted by: jlo at February 20, 2009 4:16 PM in response to original brownstone shutters
I have two window openings 28" wide and 60" high and two window openings 29" wide and considerably higher. Please let me know what you have -- photos would be great. Thanks! jackie dot moffett at gmail dot com
Posted by: jlo at December 18, 2008 8:02 PM in response to Interior window shutters available
I am in the process of obtaining LPC permits. We've been going back and forth on proposed designs. But they only care about what is historically accurate, not what is up to code. I want to have their approval AND be up to code.
Thanks.
Posted by: jlo at December 9, 2008 12:08 PM in response to Code on Iron Railings?
Are you looking for exterior handrail, spindles, etc. or interior?
Posted by: jlo at December 9, 2008 11:27 AM in response to Looking for a Stair rail
We, too, are removing exterior railings. Is that what you mean?
Posted by: jlo at December 9, 2008 11:24 AM in response to Looking for a Stair rail
Thanks all!
Posted by: jlo at July 16, 2008 7:46 AM in response to How Do I Get A Public Hearing ?
When I was looking for white Thassos marble for my bathroom, I was told I could use "china white" as it is just as white and far less expensive. It turns out however, that this substance is made of glass and so unlike stone, it cannot be cut to the specificity you would cut marble and so for wet areas like a kitchen and bath, you end up with not perfect angles, leaving you open to water seepage. The pieces I ordered were jagged, not cut to 90 degree angles and when I asked for them to be redone, I was told it was not possible. Plus, though I don't know this for sure, a glass substance in a kitchen probably leaves you open to chipping. I'd advise against.
Posted by: jlo at June 3, 2008 8:00 AM in response to Natural stone called CHINA for kitchen countertop
DO NOT use Heimer. Told me my roof was "good" and should last ten years. WRONG! Said my electric was up to snuff. WRONG! And when I got in contact with them to complain, instead of defending themselves, they just matter-of-factly sent me the information to make a claim against them...like it happens every day!
Posted by: jlo at May 31, 2008 4:13 PM in response to home inspection?
I will keep you all posted. Thanks for all the advice!
Posted by: jlo at May 5, 2008 2:49 PM in response to Tree Issue
8:55: Tried to photograph the yards, but the tree branches are so high, I can't get them and the fence in the same shot.
Yes 2:21, all this for 2 weeks of pink petals floating into their backyard.
My lawyer says the law is on their side, and that they can cut whatever is in their yard, but that they can't harm the tree. Anyone know of an arborist who can asses just how much is too much? And the cost of a replacement tree? How sad is this?!
Posted by: jlo at May 2, 2008 2:26 PM in response to Tree Issue
12:22: I DID prune the tree as they asked. But what they object to are the petals. And what's so ridiculous is that even if they cut down all the branches on their side, the branches on my side would still have petals that the wind will carry to their yard.
Anyone have any information about landmarking a tree?
Posted by: jlo at May 2, 2008 7:51 AM in response to Tree Issue
I see you've met them. But can they really cut down the branches if doing so will kill or compromise the tree?
Posted by: jlo at May 1, 2008 8:17 PM in response to Tree Issue
Thanks all.
Posted by: jlo at April 25, 2008 1:59 PM in response to House Number
I have found Gateway Plumbing to be very competent, fair and reasonable.
Posted by: jlo at April 25, 2008 1:38 PM in response to Recommendations for Plumbers?
If any of the above do not work out, try Hanan at iron home and garden 646 319 4144, great work, reasonable prices.
Posted by: jlo at February 11, 2008 11:26 AM in response to Finial for a Gate
Call Hanan at ironhomeandgarden. His work is beautiful. Prices reasonable. I recommend him heartily! 646 319 4144
Posted by: jlo at February 5, 2008 7:45 PM in response to Wrought Iron Fence- $3900?
Responses to Author's Forum Comments
I like August at Artistic Wrought Iron in Coney Island. He did my front and back deck. He is a pleasure to work with. 646-739-6918. You can tell him Lydia recommended him.
Posted by: homey at May 6, 2009 2:57 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Mitchell Iron Works
(718)384-2772
Don or Ken
Posted by: HDL at May 6, 2009 5:43 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Mitchell Iron Works
(718)384-2772
Don or Ken
Posted by: HDL at May 6, 2009 5:43 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Kenny's Iron Works
(718) 855-6998
Posted by: Brooklynista at May 6, 2009 9:23 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Vinca, Any idea what the address on 3rd near 7th is? Interested in looking at it. Many thanks.
Posted by: userid at July 22, 2009 4:09 PM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
Whatever you do, DON'T use Kenny's Ironworks. Kenny spent 2-3 hours talking my ear off, going into minute detail about the fence he was going to build for me....then I think he just subbed it out to some other crew, who showed up one day and installed some total crap. I wasn't home when they started the install, or I would have stopped them. Door swings the wrong way, hinges are cheap and started to buckle, AND they painted it with only spray paint. Kenny won't return my calls now...
Posted by: springishere at July 23, 2009 7:10 AM in response to Iron work in need of serious wor
This is the only thing I've ever heard of that's supposedly good for fly control (outside of those ugly fly strips):
But, it also sounds like the above product may simply be trading in one pest for another. If you wind up trying this out, update us and let us know if it worked for you.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at August 12, 2009 9:06 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
Try Snappy's suggestion from a week ago - spread a 2 inch layer of sand on top of the soil.
Posted by: Arkady at August 12, 2009 9:08 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
Are the flies small (i.e. fungus gnats)? Do your windowboxes have drainage holes, and are they draining sufficiently? With all the rain, it's possible the soil is not drying out. Try laying raw potato slices on the soil surface. After 4 hours or so, lift and examine for larvae (then discard). As above, buy clean, fine sand and cover the soil surface to a depth of 1/2-1". If problem continues, remove the plants, wash the roots very carefully, and repot in sterilized potting medium (not soil).
Posted by: vinca at August 12, 2009 9:19 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
I will try all the above suggestions and let you know. The flies are big, not gnats, and the window boxes have drainage but with all the rain this summer, the soil may have become waterlogged and the drainage might not have been sufficient. Thank you for all these ideas. I'll get back to you!!
Posted by: jlo at August 12, 2009 10:55 AM in response to Flies in the Ivy
I called Verizon and told them that the cables they draped across my backyard fence were fast becoming my sons' favorite climbing toy and should I be worried about that? They came within 2 weeks to do a survey of how to bury the wires and though it was months later, and took a lot of follow up, they got it done.
Posted by: jlo at November 17, 2009 5:51 PM in response to Removing Unsightly Wires?