Question: When we purchased our home, we marveled at the excellent condition of the bathroom ceramic tile. We have since found out the previous owner painted, sealed or did something to "rejuvenate" the grout and tile, but we don't know what he used. The tile has a dull glaze and it once was easy to keep clean. - L.M., Northville, Mich.
Answer: All shiny tiles have glazed surface. Try cleaning the tile with a mild solution of muriatic acid. Where soap scum has formed, you may have to scrap the surface with a putty knife.
White tile grout can be brightened using a mixture of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and household bleach. Once the walls are clean and dry, apply a coat of liquid silicone, which you can purchase at most tile dealers.
There are tile cleaning and polishing products on the market which you could also use.
Question: I replaced my gas furnace with an 80 percent efficient Bryant Plus 80 unit. The reason for doing this was to reduce my heating costs. This did not happen. Is this a common occurrence? - C.W., Midland, Mich.
Answer: It's easy to suspect the furnace, but often the problem lies in the construction of the home.
A poorly insulated or drafty home will use additional fuel. If you have older windows and doors, cold air entry is a problem. If the doors are opened frequently, the new furnace will run more often.
Ask the installer to advise you on weatherization. Also, ask your utility company to do an energy audit to determine the expected heating costs for your home.
Questions may be addressed to C. Dwight Barnett c/o The Evansville Courier, P.O. Box 268, Evansville, IN 47702. Questions will only be answered through this column.