A Guide to Protecting Your Plants From a Snow Storm

When snow is in the forecast, concerns usually center around power outages, school closings and dangerous driving conditions. But you might also worry about your outdoor plants and how they’ll survive the storm. The truth is, most plants can weather snowstorms just fine on their own, while some may need help to avoid permanent damage. It really depends on the plant and the amount of snowfall. Ahead, we break down the best winter plant care tips with expert Sharon Yiesla, Plant Knowledge Specialist with the Plant Clinic at The Morton Arboretum.

Understanding How Snow Affects Plants

Snow can both help and harm outdoor plants. A bit of snow cover actually helps insulate perennials and groundcovers from drying winter winds and freezing temperatures. It also insulates the ground, protecting delicate roots and bulbs from frost damage.

However, heavy snowfall can crush plants or break branches, particularly evergreens. “The branches may just bend under the weight, or they may break if the snow load is very heavy or if the snow is mixed with freezing rain,” Yiesla says. Large piles of snow from storm cleanup can also crush shrubs and bushes.

Which Plants Need Protection?

“Most outdoor plants don’t need protection,” Yiesla says, but evergreens, deciduous plants and new plantings will benefit from some additional winter plant care. “Among the evergreens, we sometimes see more damage on arborvitae given their open structure with multiple trunks that can catch and hold snow,” Yiesla says. “Deciduous plants that have delicate stem structure, like small Japanese maples, could also be at risk from the weight of heavy snow.”

Also, if you live in an area that doesn’t typically get snow, your plants may need some extra protection to survive freezing temperatures, snow and ice.

Tender vs. hardy plants

Whether a plant is considered hardy or tender will be determined by the USDA Hardiness Zone where you live. Hardy plants can survive the lowest winter temperatures in your hardiness zone, while tender plants cannot. For example, a plant considered hardy in the south may be considered tender, or even an annual in the northeast. It’s best to cultivate hardy plants for your zone that can survive winter without protection.

Preparing Plants for Snow

Protect plants ahead of the storm for the best results. Here’s how:

• Loosely tie together evergreen branches that tend to splay open, like arborvitae. “Using something flexible, such as strips of fabric or old pantyhose, loosely tie the branches together so they don’t bend under the weight of snow,” Yiesla says.
• Add stakes around deciduous shrubs to mark their place and avoid piling snow during storm cleanup.
• “Enclose ornamental grasses in large tomato cages or enclosures made of heavy wire to keep the grasses upright,” Yiesla says.
• Protect young or tender plantings with wooden A-frames.
• For snow in atypical areas, use sheets or cloth tarps to temporarily cover low-doming shrubs with woody branches and bring potted plants inside. Avoid covering more delicate plants that could be crushed flat by the weight of the snow.

Protecting Plants During the Storm

During the storm, monitor evergreens and deciduous trees and, if possible, periodically remove heavy snow. “For evergreens, snow can be gently brushed off the branches. If the snow has frozen to the branches, or if it requires a vigorous shake to remove the snow, it is best just to leave the snow alone and let it melt off naturally,” Yiesla says. “At cold temperatures, branches can become brittle and shaking them too hard could cause them to break. Gentle brushing can also be used on deciduous trees and shrubs that might have accumulated a heavy snow load.”

Avoid wrapping plants if possible

“Wrapping plants is not really the best option for snow protection,” Yiesla says. “A wrapped plant could collect a larger quantity of snow and be more at risk for damage. Wraps can also get wet on milder days, and that can be harmful to the plant,” Yiesla says. Evergreens should never be wrapped because they need to absorb light through their needles.

FAQ

Should I leave snow on my plants?

Accumulated snow that is not breaking branches or crushing plants can be left alone. A good winter care practice is to gently remove heavy snow from the branches of evergreens, deciduous trees, and young plantings to prevent damage.

Can snow actually protect plants?

“Like mulch, snow can insulate the soil and keep soil temperatures more moderate, which is good for roots. A covering of snow can also insulate the plants themselves. Snow cover can be very beneficial to evergreen ground covers, such as pachysandra, juniper, and vinca. Snow protects them from the drying winds of winter and provides a source of water when it melts in spring,” Yiesla says.

About the Experts

• Sharon Yiesla is a Plant Knowledge Specialist with the Plant Clinic at The Morton Arboretum outside of Chicago, Illinois.

The post A Guide to Protecting Your Plants From a Snow Storm appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: A Guide to Protecting Your Plants From a Snow Storm

The Right Way to Remove Snow Without Damaging Your Deck

Regardless of the type of surface, removing snow with the wrong tools and ice melts can lead to aesthetic issues like scratches, cracks, and discoloration. It can also compromise the lifespan of wood and composite decks.

“The biggest problem isn’t the snow,” says Dave Kile, deck expert and owner of Trex Protect. “It’s how people try to remove it. They wait too long until snow compacts into ice, then they have to scrape aggressively.”

Here are other pitfalls to avoid when removing snow from decks and other surfaces without damaging them.

Why It’s Important to Remove Snow From Your Deck

The obvious reason to remove snow from your deck is to keep people safe from slipping and falling. But removing snow is also important to protect your deck’s lifespan.

“Snow isn’t usually what damages a deck,” says Kile. “It’s what happens after the snow. Freeze–thaw cycles cause slow damage as moisture expands and contracts, which can loosen hardware and widen small cracks over time.”

Also, when that moisture seeps into cracks, it can damage paint and cause boards to warp or rot. If it’s a heavy snow, all of that weight can also compromise a deck’s structural integrity.

Tips to Remove Snow From Your Deck (and Other Surfaces) Without Damage

Shovel Parallel to Deck Boards

Not shoveling parallel is the number one mistake homeowners make, says Kile. “Pushing perpendicular catches board edges, torques fasteners, and leaves scratches you won’t see until spring,” he says.

Avoid Metal Shovels

Metal shovels can harm all surfaces, including wood, composite, PVC, flagstone, and concrete. Instead, opt for a plastic push shovel with a rubber edge, which will help it glide along the surface. Also, try to minimize scraping or hitting the surface too hard.

“Plastic shovels and soft push brooms are your best friends,” says Anthony LaBarbera, president at Rhino Shield Texas. “Metal edges scrape paint even when you think you’re being careful, and once water gets in, the damage snowballs from there.”

Shovel All of the Snow

With wooden and composite decks, don’t just shovel a pathway or half of your deck. The remaining snow will still cause damage. Joe Marchionni, owner at Amity Home Maintenance Solutions, once had a customer who pushed all of their snow to one side of the deck. “Their idea was to get it out of the way so they could walk out onto the deck and into the backyard with the dog, but in doing this they put twice the weight load on one half of their deck,” he says.

Use Calcium Chloride Ice Melt on Wood

With wood decking, Kile recommends avoiding all ice melts except those that contain calcium chloride or eco-friendly, wood-safe alternatives. Steer clear of rock salt, magnesium chloride, dyed products, and sand, which can discolor or scratch the wood.

To use calcium chloride, apply it sparingly. Let it loosen the ice bond naturally until you can sweep the slush away. Then, once the weather allows, rinse your deck.

Use Calcium Magnesium Acetate on Hard Surfaces

For ice melt on stone, flagstone, and concrete surfaces, Kile recommends using calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). Magnesium chloride is the second-best choice. Particularly avoid rock salt, as it can stain and cause surface spalling. Pro tip: Pre-treat the surface before a storm to keep ice from bonding, says Kile.

On painted porches, avoid ice melt products altogether. “The chemicals pull moisture into the coating and slowly eat away at the paint,” says LaBarbera. “Most people don’t realize they’ve caused damage until months later, because winter scratches and chemical damage usually show up in spring when paint starts bubbling, peeling, or wearing out far sooner than it should.”

Prep Your Deck for Winter

In the fall, fix any exposed nails and screws so they’re flush or recessed into the wood or composite. That way, they won’t snag your shovel. “This should be done even without worry of a shovel, though, as you want to avoid trip hazards,” says Marchionni.

Repair Damage Promptly

For painted surfaces, if you do make a scratch, dry the area and touch it up as soon as the weather allows. “Sealing it early keeps moisture from spreading under the surrounding paint,” says LaBarbera.

FAQ

Can you use ice melt on the porch?

Sometimes, as long as it’s the right kind. “Calcium chloride is the safest option for decks and porches,” says Kile. “It works quickly and breaks the ice bond without attacking the surface.”

On wood and composite decking, avoid rock salt, magnesium chloride, gritty blends, dyes, and urea-based “pet-safe” formulas. “These can stain, corrode fasteners, or scratch surfaces,” says Kile.

About the Experts

• Dave Kile is a deck expert and owner of Trex Protect.
• Anthony LaBarbera is president at Rhino Shield Texas.
• Joe Marchionni is owner at Amity Home Maintenance Solutions in Connecticut.

Storm Prep

• Emergency Survival Kit Checklist for Severe Weather
• How To Keep Your Family and Your Home Safe During High Winds
• How To Prepare an Emergency Evacuation Plan

The post The Right Way to Remove Snow Without Damaging Your Deck appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: The Right Way to Remove Snow Without Damaging Your Deck

The Right Way To Clean Work Boots for Long-Lasting Wear

Remove the laces

First, remove the laces to access the tongue and eyelets. If they are frayed or torn, discard them and plan to replace them at the end.

If they are still in good shape, soak them in a mixture of warm water and a few drops of laundry detergent for an hour. For heavily greased laces, use a few drops of Dawn dish soap to break down the grease. You can use an old toothbrush to help with the deep clean. No worn shoelace is going to be 100% stain-free, so focus on removing the grit and grime rather than achieving perfection. Hang them to air dry when finished.

Brush away debris

It’s as easy as it sounds: brush your boots of dirt, rocks, and debris using a horsehair brush. Horsehair is ideal because the bristles are soft enough to avoid scratching the leather but stiff enough to reach into the welt and the folds of the tongue.

Once finished, set this brush aside. Do not use your “dirt brush” for the conditioning or polishing steps, as you don’t want to rub old dirt back into the leather’s clean pores.

Burn off loose threads (optional)

On beat-up boots, look for frayed threads around the collar or eyelets. Take a lighter to quickly fan the flame over the loose thread. Bring the flame in to start the burn, pull back, and repeat until the thread burns down to a small, melted ball against the leather. Rub the charred end with your thumb to eliminate any burnt debris. Avoid holding the flame in one spot to prevent damaging the leather.

Scrub the midsole and welt

Before touching the upper leather, clean the “chassis” of the boot. Take your small horsehair brush, wet it and lather up some saddle soap. Apply the lather to the midsole and welt. For stubborn stains, let the soap sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a medium-bristle toothbrush. Be aggressive when scrubbing with the toothbrush. This deep cleans and will restore some of the color back in the midsole. Wipe away the saddle soap with a damp cloth.

Patience is required for this. For flat-bottom, light-colored wedge soles, use the back of the toothbrush to work the soap into stubborn stains in the midsole. Wipe away any visibly dirty soap when working it in, and reapply as needed.

Wash the leather

Now, lather up more saddle soap and hit the actual leather with the same horsehair brush used for the midsole, no toothbrush needed. Use a circular motion when cleaning the boot, but don’t be too aggressive. This helps penetrate the leather’s pores. Pay close attention to the tongue and creases where dirt hides.

Once finished, wipe away the suds with a dry cloth, then follow up with a damp cloth to remove every trace of soap. Don’t skip the damp wipe! Dried saddle soap can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt. Worse, it dries out the leather in the long run, which may cause it to crack.

Let the boots air dry for an hour or two. The leather must be completely dry for the conditioner to absorb properly.

Note: You only need saddle soap if the boots are heavily soiled or have never been cleaned. For regular maintenance, a simple brush and damp wipe are often sufficient.

Apply Leather conditioner

This is the most important part, but be aware that conditioners will darken your leather. Mink oil and beeswax darken it the most compared to carnauba conditioners, so test on an inconspicuous spot first.

I prefer applying by hand, but you can use a clean cloth. The heat from your hand helps melt the leather conditioner, making it easier for the leather to absorb it. Plus, you can feel the texture and see where the leather is the driest.

Spread it thin and even. You don’t want to over-saturate; just give the leather what it needs to stay supple. When the boots are fully conditioned, set them aside for 20 minutes for the leather to absorb the conditioner. After that, take your clean horsehair brush and gently brush the boot off of any residue, smoothing out the conditioner.

Note: Oversaturation can weaken the leather and may permanently discolor it.

Restore and polish

This can be two different steps, but we choose to use a two-in-one color restorer and polish; this will just be one.

Apply the color restorer with a clean cloth to spots on the boot that have faded or have deep scratches. Let it sit for 15 minutes.  Then, use the conditioner brush to lightly buff the spots with color restorer and polish. Go over each spot until you have achieved your desired color and sheen. Reapply and buff as needed.

Re-lace and let dry

Once the boots are dry to the touch, re-lace them with the new or clean shoelaces. Then set them aside for 24 hours before wearing. This ensures the boot has fully dried and has absorbed the conditioning, color-restoring products.

Your boots are now hydrated, protected, and ready for work.

FAQ

Can I use a synthetic brush instead of a horsehair brush?

Yes, but only for cleaning off tough dirt and grime. Try to avoid using this on leather as it will scratch it. Stick with horsehair brushes to do the job. The alternative to horsehair brushes can be boar’s hair brushes. They are a bit softer and not as stiff, but still work great.

What is the best conditioner for leather boots?

Everyone has different opinions on this, and I certainly have mine. This comes down to how much darkening of the leather you care to have and how long the conditioner lasts. There are many different types of conditioners, but the most common are: mink oil, beeswax, and carnauba cream. Mink oil tends to wear off faster than beeswax and carnauba cream. Mink oil and beeswax tend to darken leather more than carnauba cream. Carnauba seems to be the winner here, but some don’t like it. The best way to find the right conditioner is to test each product until you find what works for you.

Can I use Dawn dish soap on leather boots?

No. The degreasing properties of dish soap can strip leather of its natural oils, leaving it dry, cracked, and damaged.

The post The Right Way To Clean Work Boots for Long-Lasting Wear appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: The Right Way To Clean Work Boots for Long-Lasting Wear

9 Privacy Window Treatment Tips & Ideas That Don’t Sacrifice Style

Going With a Basic Roller Shade Is Not Always the Best Option

When choosing the best privacy window treatments, don’t settle or assume the most effective option has to be plain, basic or drab. Nowadays, there are a ton of incredible colors, textures, and patterns that allow your interior design aesthetic and personality to shine.

“Going with a simple white roller shade is not always the best option,” Jones stresses.

If you’re anything like me, you love a space that feels open, airy, and bright. I’m a fan of keeping shades up during the day and letting as much natural sunlight in as possible. Some of my favorite window treatments that balance privacy with natural light and style include Pottery Barn’s Riviera Striped Roman Blackout Shade—perfect for those who need their bedroom to be completely dark while they sleep, and Pottery Barn’s Custom Belgian Linen Dual Roman Light Filtering Shade, which offers privacy, filters natural light, and exudes a seaside retreat vibe thanks to its linen-cotton fabric blend.

Don’t Make Your Window Treatments an Afterthought

One of the biggest errors homeowners make is failing to budget properly or overlooking the wide variety of window dressing options available. Window treatments can be the finishing statement you need to pull an entire room together, so they deserve your time, research, and investment. As with any important design decision in the home, this one absolutely should not be rushed.

“It is possible for the window treatments to be an afterthought and often the desire for function and availability will outweigh the aesthetics,” Jones says.

Test Out Samples in Your Space Before Making the Decision

According to Jones, many home decor and window treatment stores offer free swatches, consults and estimates to ensure you’re making the best design decision for your space before investing. So grab some of your favorites and test them out in the room where they’ll be installed. Pay attention to how each one looks in different lighting throughout the day and whether they mesh well with the vibe you’re trying to achieve.

I’ve previously worked with The Shade Store while perusing options for my own master bedroom. The brand offers the most beautiful selection of fabrics available as free samples, from woven wood shades in the “artisan weaves” collection to white linen blend roman shades. Anything you choose can be customized with a privacy liner.

“For draperies, I use a local custom work room, but I have also had success using Home Depot for shades and shutters or 3 Day Blinds on some projects,” offers Maynard. “In the industry, Hunter Douglas is considered the best brands for window shades.”

Lean on the Pros to Get Things Right

The measuring process can be quite overwhelming—especially if you’re having custom window treatments made. Jones’s recommendation? If you don’t feel confident in your ability to measure your space, just leave the measuring to the pros! Many window treatment companies offer free at-home measuring to take any stress out of the equation.

“If there is an error with the product, then you are not the one responsible to get it corrected. I always appreciate the measure twice rule and encourage having the professionals that will install, confirm dimensions before placing an order,” Jones says.

Consider Where the Treatments Will Be Mounted

Considering the location of your window treatment is key to ensuring it serves its core purpose and functions in the best possible way.

“Mounting will depend on the amount of space you have in your window frame. As new windows are being replaced in older homes, the new windows often take more space in the interior of a frame, meaning sometimes there is not enough depth to mount inside,” Jones explains. “If you mount on the exterior of the window, you need to consider how much space you have around the window and the potential spacing on the sides of a privacy shade.”

On the one hand, an inside mount is positioned inside the window frame and exudes a more custom look for shades. Roller shades that are held down on the sides so that no light can escape are becoming more popular. This option can be beneficial for those who love taking afternoon naps or work night shifts and need to sleep during the day.

“[On the other hand, an] outside mount is used for drapes and is mounted above the window. This can work well if you need blackout or complete darkness with heavy black out lining, and an outside mount drape, you should achieve complete darkness,” Maynard tells us.

Choose a Color That Blends With Your Wall Color

The color of your window treatments should complement your wall color. If your walls are painted a shade of white, for instance, Maynard recommends white shades rather than a color that creates a stark contrast.

“If you use brown shades on a white wall, it will be too bold for the shades; it’s better to blend with the wall and disappear rather than stand out,” Maynard explains. “But if you have a small window in a bathroom or kitchen to add interest to the room, this is a place to add a print to make a statement.”

Choose Bamboo Shades for Texture

If you’re looking for a fun, textured element that coincides with the neutral earth tones in your space, Jones suggests bamboo shades.

“[They] instantly make a space feel more elevated and thoughtfully considered,” she says.

Skeptical about the privacy aspect of bamboo? Rest assured, many come with a built-in privacy liner, or they can be customized with one. And if you find a style you love that’s unlined and can’t be customized, consider them for a living room or kitchen that needs just enough privacy during the daytime while still letting gentle patches of sun to stream through.

Consider Louvered Shutters

Ever since my parents installed louvered shutters in the bathroom of my childhood home—paired with a beautiful floral wallpaper—I’ve been obsessed with the timeless charm plantation shutters bring to a space.

“If your window looks into your neighbor’s yard or home, plantation shutters are great,” says Maynard. “They look classic and provide privacy; you can slightly tilt the lovers up to let in light.”

When completely closed, plantation shutters do an excellent job at blocking out light, and during the day, you can simply open them to let the sunlight in. What I love most about plantation shutters is that they can also be installed on just the bottom half of the window, offering the best of both worlds.

Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches

The decorating process doesn’t end once you choose your window treatments. There are a few essential finishing touches that can pull the entire look together.

One way to enhance privacy shades is to add curtains. According to Jones, this method will make your privacy window treatment “feel more custom and intentional.”

Maynard also recommends installing trim or a valance at the top of the shade, which can help cover the metal headrail and operating mechanism.

“With drapes, select a nice rod—not an inexpensive telescope rod; it looks flimsy and cheap,” she adds.

About the Experts

• Jim Lapic is the Co-Owner of Kestrel Shutters & Doors, which has been around since 1989, serving as a global provider of fine quality interior and exterior shutters and doors.
• Dusti Jones is the Founder & Principal Interior Designer of Dusti J Design, which was recognized by the Interior Design Society (IDS) with a 2025 Designer of the Year award. Jones is also a Certified Color Expert.
• Robbie Maynard, CID, NCIDQ, is an award-winning Interior Designer and the Principal Interior Designer at Robbie Maynard Interiors in San Diego, California. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and has been in the industry for more than 30 years.

The post 9 Privacy Window Treatment Tips & Ideas That Don’t Sacrifice Style appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: 9 Privacy Window Treatment Tips & Ideas That Don’t Sacrifice Style

Why Your Tire Pressure Keeps Fluctuating and What It Could Mean

As a certified ASE and General Motors Master Technician, vocational instructor and consumer, I have almost 60 years working in and around the automotive industry. One item about cars that is always a topic of discussion is tires. Everything from handling and performance, tread design, noise, mileage, braking, vibrations, abnormal wear, damage, of course, to even making repairs. However, in my experience, the main issue drivers have with tires: maintenance, especially why air pressure keeps changing.

With the advent of modern Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and the dreaded Tire Pressure Warning Light, concerns have grown exponentially. Before panicking, let’s read what the experts have to say about why tire air pressure changes and what to look for.

Normal Tire Pressure Fluctuations

Tire pressure fluctuation is nothing out of the ordinary. Changes in temperature are the most common reason air pressure fluctuates. “The air’s response to temperature causes it to expand and contract, and your tires can lose around one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degree drop in temperature, and the reason why drivers get a low tire pressure warning light during the colder months,” said Fang (Bob) Shusheng, Owner and CEO of Nilight, manufacturer of high performance and off-road automotive equipment.

“Air pressure increases as tires warm up while driving and temperatures rise throughout the day,” said Jim DeLeo of  Hunter Engineering. “Conversely, as your tires sit overnight and cool down, air pressure can drop.

“Temperature fluctuations should affect all four tires equally, with pressures normally rising once the tires heat up,” added Shusheng.

Common Causes of Ongoing Fluctuations

Large temperature swings, especially in colder climates, are the most common cause of tire pressure fluctuations. “Cold can cause a tire to contract slightly,” DeLeo added, noting this can reduce a tire’s internal volume, resulting in lower tire pressure until the tires warm back up.

When Fluctuations Are a Problem

While small tire air pressure fluctuations are totally normal and should be expected, other issues to look out for include:

• One tire consistently loses more air pressure than the others, and air pressure drops within days of refilling with air.
• The TPMS light constantly comes on for the same wheel.
• Air pressure drops even when temperatures remain relatively stable

What to Do About It

DeLeo explained, “Always set your tire pressure [first thing in the morning] when the tires are cold.” Use the Tire and Load Information placard—usually located on the driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual—specifications, not the maximum air pressure found on the sidewall. “Check pressures at least one time a month, and more often during the winter,” said DeLeo.

If one or more tires keep losing air pressure, have your tire checked for:

• Punctures from a nail, road debris or even a toothpick (yes, I saw this once!) will cause a tire to keep losing air pressure.
• Wheel bead corrosion from the build-up of water or moisture inside the tire. This is usually caused by poorly installed wheel weights, a bent wheel or tire damage.
• Wheel porosity (usually undetectable by eye) is microscopic fissures triggered from corrosion in an aluminum or composite wheel that causes very slow air pressure loss.
• Tire dry rot from ultraviolet (UV) rays can weaken and crack rubber, resulting in air slowly leaking through tiny fractures commonly found on the sidewall or tread area.
• Valve stem leaks can be checked using a soapy water solution. Never overtighten the valve stem on a Schrader valve, especially in TPMS valve stems.
• Ensure all wheels have valve stem caps installed.
• You can try replacing “air” with nitrogen.

Safety and Fuel Economy Impact

If you’ve ever read my Family Handyman articles, you know that tires, brakes, steering and suspension systems are the most critical safety systems on our cars. Underinflated or overinflated tires have less tread area contacting the pavement. Remember, the part of the tire that touches the road is called the contact patch or footprint and isn’t much larger than the palm of your hand.

That is why maintaining correct tire pressure is vital. ASE and Ford Master Technician Jon Stull said, “Overinflating tires will not stop air pressure loss from temperature changes.”

“Low pressure can not only make tires look deflated, but can affect the way a vehicle drives,” Shusheng added. “They might make steering feel sluggish, increase braking distance and create more rolling resistance, which can contribute to tires wearing out faster.”

Think about the extra effort needed to pedal a bicycle with underinflated tires. The engine having to work harder will use more fuel, lowering fuel economy as well as increasing overall engine wear and tear. “Overinflation reduces traction, causes the tire to become stiff and makes it prone to blowouts. The center tread area wears faster than the rest of the tire tread,” said Shusheng.

In addition, overinflated or underinflated tires negatively affect braking, handling, and cornering, especially on wet or icy roads.

FAQ

Can I drive with the tire pressure warning light on?

Yes, but don’t. “A vehicle’s low air pressure warning light turning on gives drivers an important warning that their tires need immediate attention, and should not be ignored,” said Shusheng. It means a tire is significantly underinflated and you could be on the verge of a flat tire, or worse, a blowout from overheated tires.

As DeLeo explained, “On a really cold night, a considerable drop in PSI isn’t unusual.” That much change can be just enough to turn on the TMPS light, yet as the tires warm up, pressure can increase two to six PSI after 25 minutes of driving, or just enough to turn the TPMS light off. Other reasons the TMPS light comes on include:

• A damaged, corroded or defective TMPS sensor.
• A weak TMPS sensor battery.
• One or more sensors need to be recalibrated after a dead battery.
• Rotating or installing new tires.
• Mismatched tires.
• Worn wheel bearing.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

Avoiding tire problems starts with you, the vehicle driver. Performing these basic maintenance steps including:

• Check tire pressure every month, more often in winter.
• Visually inspect tires once a week.
• Rotate and balance tires and wheels every 5,000 to 8,000 miles and have the pros perform a wheel alignment once a year.

About the Experts

Jon Stull has been an ASE Master Technician for 28 years. (Email correspondence Feb 6, 2026)

Jim DeLeo has been in the automotive repair industry for over 40 years and held positions as an ASE master technician, shop foreman and service manager, and is now Northeast Division Manager for Hunter Engineering Company. (Email correspondence Feb 6, 2026)

Bob Shusheng got his start in business, by selling a variety of products on eBay as well as a variety of products, including Nilight automotive equipment and accessories, to sell on Amazon. As sales of Nilight light bars started taking off, Bob decided to fully expanded the Nilight car and truck accessory parts catalog and starting his own factory so he could control part quality, features and value. (Email correspondence Feb 10, 2026)

Resources

AutoZone: “Why Does Tire Pressure Drop in Cold Weather?” (Feb 2026)

Bridgestone: “What is TPMS and How Does it Work?” (Feb 2026)

Consumer Reports: “Why Does Your Tire Pressure Drop in the Cold?” (Oct 10, 2025)

Kelly Blue Book “What Does ‘TPMS’ Mean on a Car?” (Apr 12, 2024)

RELATED:

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

The post Why Your Tire Pressure Keeps Fluctuating and What It Could Mean appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: Why Your Tire Pressure Keeps Fluctuating and What It Could Mean

Those Tiny Lines in Your Mug Could Be a Hidden Health Risk

I think we all have a bowl or mug like this in our cupboard or pantry. It looks normal on the outside. Inside, though, there are faint lines snaking across the inside like tiny stretch marks or scratches. Turns out, those lines inside your coffee mug may signal a problem called “crazing.”

A recent Reddit post asked about these mysterious markings, and several commenters noticed the distinct crazing pattern. While seeing someone else with a mug like this might make you feel a little better about your favorite coffee drinking vessel, it shouldn’t ease your mind that it’s normal or safe to use. Here, we’ll explain what crazing is, what causes it, and how to prevent it.

What Is Crazing?

Crazing is a pattern of hairline cracks that form in the glazed surface of ceramic drinkware and bowls. Unlike its appearance would indicate, it’s not caused by scratches from spoons or cleaning pads. It’s actually caused by the ceramic expanding or contracting at different rates during heating and cooling. That includes very hot or cold drinks and the cleaning process, either by hand or in a dishwasher.

Sometimes, determining what a scratch is and what is crazing isn’t immediately obvious. However, there are signs to look for.

While scratches usually run in straight or random directions and feel slightly raised, crazing forms a web-like pattern that sits beneath the surface glaze. The lines often appear darker because coffee or tea seeps into the cracks over time.

Also, a food-safe glaze should feel smooth and glass-like. If the interior surface appears dull, uneven or marked with faint intersecting lines, the glaze may have started to craze.

It is worth noting that some decorative pottery intentionally uses a similar look, which is not the same as crazing.

Is Crazing Dangerous?

Yes. The smooth glaze on the mug or bowl provides a protective barrier against moisture and residue from soaking into the ceramic. Once crazing begins, that barrier breaks down, potentially trapping liquid, coffee oils or food particles that regular washing may not fully remove. Bacteria or mold can settle into those tiny cracks.

So, should you throw out a mug with crazing? Most experts recommend retiring heavily crazed items from food or drink use, as it’s simply not worth the risk. You might think you can adequately clean it after each use, but the harmful bacteria might be beyond reach and can pose a health risk.

If the mug holds sentimental value, you don’t have to (immediately) get rid of it. Instead of using it as a drinking or eating utensil, you can repurpose it as planters, a pen or pencil organizers, decor, storage for small items, or something else purposeful.

It’s better to be safe than sorry, even if it is your favorite mug or bowl.

How To Prevent Crazing From Happening Again

Crazing can’t be fixed or reversed, so it’s better to practice safe habits to protect your ceramic items.

With rapid temperature changes posing the biggest risk for crazing, don’t pour boiling liquid into a cold mug or one straight from the cabinet. Also, make sure it’s dishwasher safe before putting it into a machine and don’t use extremely hot water if washing by hand.

While you can’t fix the mugs you already have, replace any cracked items with drinkware that meets modern manufacturing standards. Look for items that are labeled food-safe or lead-free.

Sources

• Biology Insights: “Are Dishes With Crazing Safe to Use?”
• Ceramind Tools: “Common Pottery Defects and How to Prevent Them”

RELATED:

• See a Green Dot on Your Android Phone? Here’s What It Means
• If You Get a USPS Scam Text, You Need To Do This Immediately
• This Is How Often You Should Restart Your Phone

The post Those Tiny Lines in Your Mug Could Be a Hidden Health Risk appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: Those Tiny Lines in Your Mug Could Be a Hidden Health Risk

140,000+ Toyotas Recalled Over Spontaneous Door Openings — Is Yours on the List?

Few things short of engine fires or deadly crashes can scare someone as much as the idea of their car door flying open while the vehicle is in motion. Unfortunately for some Toyota owners, this nightmare is a reality. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced that the automotive company is recalling hundreds of thousands of Prius vehicles because of doors opening unexpectedly.

Why Is Toyota Recalling Prius Vehicles?

According to the brief, not all Prius vehicles have safe rear door switches. In the affected vehicles, “water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly.” The NHTSA warns that “a door that unexpectedly opens while the vehicle is moving increases the risk of injury.”

If you own a Prius, minimize its use as much as you can until you know whether it’s safe. If you need to drive it, keep the rear seats clear of any items or passengers. The last thing you want is your items strewn across the road, or, worse, your passengers in danger of falling out. You should also ensure that your rear doors are locked whenever you’re driving your Prius, at least until you know the repair is finished.

Which Prius Vehicles Are at Risk?

Toyota is recalling over 140,000 vehicles, including the:

• 2023 Prius Prime
• 2024 Prius Prime
• 2023 Prius
• 2024 Prius
• 2025 Prius
• 2026 Prius
• 2025 Prius Plug-in Hybrid
• 2026 Prius Plug-in Hybrid

If you own any of the models listed above, keep an eye on your mailbox. Toyota will mail out letters to impacted owners in mid-March. The NHTSA warns that “this recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 24V274.” It explains that “vehicles repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy performed.” So if you’ve already had this issue fixed, you’re not necessarily in the clear just yet.

How Will Toyota Fix This Problem?

Toyota says that “dealers will modify the rear door switch circuits, free of charge.” If your Prius is affected by this issue, schedule your repair as soon as it’s available to you. Unsecured doors are a nightmare and a tragedy just waiting to happen.

If you have further questions, you can reach Toyota’s customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota’s numbers for this recall are 26TB03 and 26TA03 and the NHTSA number for it is 26V049000.

Source

Unlocked Rear Door May Open Unexpectedly, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

The post 140,000+ Toyotas Recalled Over Spontaneous Door Openings — Is Yours on the List? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Article source here: 140,000+ Toyotas Recalled Over Spontaneous Door Openings — Is Yours on the List?