About Siding

Christopher G asked:


Gas log lighters for wood are pretty similar to burners for gas log fireplaces. The primary difference appears to be the added embers and cinders placed on and around a burner for gas log fireplaces to make the flame appear more realistic. I want to use a gas log lighter some similar fashion so we can also burn wood in an outdoor fireplace. So far, the few people I have talked to have all said that a log lighter just won’t work, but haven’t really been able to explain why. I have considered installing two log lighters, side by side or one on top of the other, and/or modifying a log lighter with more flame outlets (holes) at random locations. Is there really some reason why a log lighter can’t be used for both wood and ceramic logs? Thanks.

Sheila

KBGood asked:


I have asked a previous question about removing Aluminum Siding and neglected to mention a few things so although the answers were helpful, they are not in line with what I’m trying to achieve.
I do know you can paing aluminum siding, but it is full of dents and holes and bad spots. I would like to rip all of it off and restore the cedar siding that is underneath which is in pretty good condition in the area’s we’ve looked at. I’ve also spoken to the previous owners’ son and my next door neighbor who has lived here since the houses were built in 1950. She says the only reason they put siding on was to eliminate having to take care of it and because the aluminum siding was the “new best thing” out there. Before the aluminum siding went up, they painted the cedar.
So my question is how long will this process take and when is the best time to start the project?
I live in Illinois, so we’re hitting the cold season.
I also want to add that the original cedar was stained and then it had been painted over. In the areas where we’ve looked under the aluminum, the paint is just falling off of the siding. I assume it’s from trapped condensation or humidity. I am hoping that the fact that cedar has been painted means that it had a small layer of protection. I just want to restore the natural character of our house without using aluminum or vinyl. I know cedar comes with a lot of upkeep and it is what I prefer.
When removing the aluminum siding, does the aluminum trim come off too?

Thank you to everyone who previously answered and to all of those that will respond to this question.

This ugly “harvest gold” color house thanks you too!

Gilbert