About James Dulley

James Dulley

James Dulley

Columnist James Dulley answers readers' questions about building, remodeling or home-maintenance problems that range from paving a driveway to painting over wallpaper. Each column is accompanied by the related "Home How-To" graphic.

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Make Old Tarnished Brass Bathroom Fixtures Look Like New Sep 03, 2026

Dear James: My master bathroom has some beautiful antique brass fixtures that have gotten tarnished over the years. What is the best way to clean them and maintain them tarnish-free? — Shari R. Dear Shari: Hopefully, you will be able to clean a... Read More

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Select Proper Carpeting Padding Aug 27, 2026

Dear James: I have selected the wall-to-wall carpeting I want, but now I need to pick out the carpet padding. Should I just pick the thickest or are there other considerations? — Brian P. Dear Brian: The selection of the correct type of carpet ... Read More

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Use Elegant Urethane Wall Trim Aug 20, 2026

Dear James: I think some decorative trim could jazz up some rooms in my house. Is this a project that I can do myself? And what type of trim is easy to work with? — Kimberly S. Dear Kimberly: You will be surprised how adding a few pieces of dec... Read More

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Add Decorative Metal Ceiling Aug 13, 2026

Dear James: A friend bought an older house with a metal panel ceiling, and I want one for my dining room. Are the materials still available to install one? — Dave T. Dear Dave: You are in luck. Metal panel ceilings are beautiful, and best of al... Read More