Q: I am trying to put plastic sheets across my windows to keep the cold air from coming in. However, the masking tape I'm using will not stay put. It just keeps peeling off the window frame. How can I get this sheeting to stay up? -- George P., Springfield, Mass.

A: Two problems come to mind when trying to get masking tape to stick. First, the surface of the frame may not be too adherent -- a glossy paint may resist masking tape, and a dirty or uneven surface also presents difficulties. Second, the surface temperature could prevent sticking. If the room is chilly or the temperature around the window frame is below 50 degrees, masking tape might not stick very well.

Clean the surfaces to which the tape will stick with soap and water, and rinse. Wait for the outside temperatures to rise above freezing, and if possible, for the sun to shine directly on that side of the house, to make the frames as warm as possible. Increase the heat indoors temporarily to create some warmth, too. For a quick heat-up, run a hair dryer along the frame for a few seconds just before applying the tape.

Use the thinnest plastic possible, so that the weight will not drag the tape off.

Another solution is to purchase a different kind of tape, or a window sealing kit. However, to ensure the best adhesion, raise the temperature around the frame even with the sealing-kit tape.

When the weather improves, or during the warmer months, consider replacing leaky windows and frames or, at the very least, improving the weatherstripping materials so that you don't have to use plastic sheeting at all.

HOME TIP: To unstick a stubborn window, place a two-by-four against the bottom sash and tap gently with a hammer; the window should lift more easily.

Some tips to keep

that heater going

Winter is no time for a heater to suddenly conk out, so knowing the steps to take before calling a professional -- and waiting for hours or days for a response -- can get the warm air back on quickly and safely.

If a heater is not working, check the circuit box first -- a blown fuse could be the culprit. If that checks out, look at the thermostat to see if it has been lowered or turned off; adjust it if necessary. Next, check the heating system's emergency switch, and turn it on if needed. If you have a gas system, check the pilot light.

An oil-burning system may be out of fuel. Check the tank level (many homeowners and professionals keep a long stick, marked in feet and inches, near the tank; dip the stick into the tank until it hits bottom and check how high the stick is coated). If the fuel level is fine, press the system's safety relay button once. If the heat doesn't come on, reset the burner motor (press the switch located near the motor).

If your home uses a hot water or steam (radiator) system, try releasing trapped air from each radiator by opening the air vent -- if there is one - - with a screwdriver and keeping open until water shoots out (careful, it's hot). If using a steam boiler system, check the water-level gauge. If the water level is too low, turn the water supply valve until the gauge rises to the correct level.

These steps can correct a heating problem; if they don't, you can relay the steps you took to the heating repair professional when scheduling a visit.

Always stay safe when checking the heating unit. If you smell a strong odor of gas in the area, get everyone out of the house and call the fire department immediately. If standing water is next to an electrical circuit, don't play around with the circuits -- call a heating professional or an electrician if necessary, and drain the water from the area if possible.

HOME TIP: Increase the efficiency of radiators by taping a sheet of heavy aluminum foil to the wall behind each radiator, reflective side out.

Send questions or home-repair tips to homeguru2000@hotmail.com, or write This Is a Hammer, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475.