Fixit: Make call to end phone-book drop

By KAREN YOUSO, Star Tribune

Last update: November 9, 2009 - 4:54 PM

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Q How do my neighbors and I stop getting those Dex phone books? We don't want them and they're heavy to haul out to the garbage.

A Go to www.dexknows.com. At the bottom, click on "Select your Dex." On the next page, enter your ZIP code and click on "Proceed to select your Dex." Fill out your address information and enter "0" as the number of books you want to receive.

An easier way might be to just call them: 1-877-243-8339.

To opt out of other directories:

• Yellowbook, call 1-800-929-3556.

• Verizon Yellow Pages (Idearc), call 1-800-888-8448.

Meanwhile, don't throw unwanted phone books in the garbage. They are recyclable.

Seal the condo

Q In a recent column, you mentioned sealing an apartment or condo as a way to keep smoke from neighboring apartments or condos from seeping in. Any suggestions on how to do this?

A A wall may look like it's solid to your eye, but it's not to a gas or smoke. Remember that outlet covers, switch plates and floor and ceiling molding only cover up a hole, they do not seal it. Use a foam gasket for outlets and caulk for gaps between walls and floors. Both are available at hardware and home stores.

Cold weather compost

Q Can I continue to add to my composter when it's cold?

A Yes. The compost pile probably will freeze, but it will thaw in the spring and break down quickly.

Be sure that your composter has a cover to keep out snow and ice, and that you leave room for materials you'll add over winter.

There's no need to turn your compost in winter; do that in spring, when the materials thaw. The compost mass will shrink considerably.

Send your questions to Fixit in care of the Star Tribune, 425 Portland Av. S., Minneapolis, MN 55488, or call 612-673-7032, or e-mail fixit@startribune.com. Past columns are available at www. startribune.com/fixit. Sorry, Fixit cannot supply individual replies. Fixit appears every day except Friday.

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