How To Fix That Sticking Door Nearly everyone has experienced a sticking door that just will not close properly. This problem may become more noticeable when temperatures rise and humidity contributes to the swelling of wood doors and frames. According to The Family Handyman, a home improvement resource, the standard remedy for alleviating a sticking door is to remove the door and pare down the edges that are rubbing so that the door will once again swing freely. While this can solve the problem, it can be a hassle, as it requires refinishing the pareddown edge and rehanging the door. Try these shortcuts first before creating more work than might be necessary. ¥ Identify the problem area and rub it with a dry bar of soap. This should reduce friction and allow the door to close more easily. • Remove humidity with a dehumidifier or by running an air conditioning unit. • Check for loose hinges or sagging around the hinge. Tighten the fasteners to sure up the door and create better alignment. • Spray the hinges with lubricant if you suspect sticking is originating because of squeaky hinges. • Look for obstructions at the bottom of the door. Is the door dragging on carpeting or being caught on something on the floor? It may be a matter of simply clearing away the obstruction. v MetroCreative Connection Addressing Spring Ant Problems The return of warm weather in the spring often marks the return of animals and insects as well. The spring season is a popular time for insects to mate and build nests. This also may be a time when homeowners see ant ‘swarms’ in or around their homes. Ants and termites are social creatures, and when their colonies become too large, flying ants will spread out in search of new territories and to establish new queens. This mobility may also be coupled with an increasing number of ants marching on the ground and scaling walls. Although many species of ants are harmless, homeowners do not want to see ants inside their homes – especially in large numbers. The following strategies can help homeowners address ant infestations this spring. • Identify the type of ant around your property. Consult with online guides or books to identify the species of ant on your property. Knowing which species of ant is in or around your home can help you address the problem more effectively. • Create a food trap. Ants are attracted to various food sources, such as fats, sweets and proteins. Mixing a very small amount of a food with boric acid can help control ant populations. Ants will bring tainted food back to their colonies and perish. • Keep a clean house. Use vinegar, soap and water to clean areas where ants are seen. Many leave a scent trail of pheromones to tell others where to go for a food source. • Treat carpenter ants at the source. Carpenter ants will not bring back food to the nest. Instead, sprinkle diatomaceous earth, or DE, around outdoor nests to eradicate colonies. { ” HARDWARE Proudly featuring Valspar, Benjamin Moore & Clark & Kensington Paints! 20• TODAY’S HOME - Spring 2017 } “ • Work with an exterminator. If home remedies do not work, consult with a trained exterminator. Your complete Hardware Store & more 812 Cottage, Vermillion • 605-624-3195 118 E. Main St., Elk Point • 605-356-3311 v MetroCreative Connection Open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. • Huge Paint Department • Keys • Window & Screen Repair • Glass Cutting • Lock Repair • Electrical • Plumbing • Lawn & Garden • Outdoor Equipment • Rental Equipment • Small Engine Repair & A Whole Lot More...