Home Depot offers classes on earthquake-related repairs

SARAH JACKSON, THE OLYMPIAN

OLYMPIA -- Starting today, Home Depot in Olympia will offer classes on earthquake-related repairs and retrofits from 3 to 4 p.m. each day, said Stelio Zolotas, who works in the building materials at the store.

Zolotas said the earthquake-repair clinics, originally set to address home energy conservation throughout March, may continue into April and May, depending on demand.

Ken Urie, a Home Depot design specialist in window and door design, said audience questions -- which he expects to focus on repairs for drywall, foundations, patios and driveways -- will direct the class.

Urie, also owner of his own Emergency Supply Center, said with planning and patience even drywall replacement jobs are relatively simple.

"We'll go over just how to make the basic repairs," he said. "Most of them are going to be in corners and edges -- those are the most likely places to pop."

Homeowners also can learn how to strengthen their existing foundations, Urie said, with different fasteners, for example.

The clinic, Urie said, might even offer a venue for homeowners to vent.

"It'll kind of give them a forum to talk about their experiences, too," Urie, who also experienced the 1971 San Fernando earthquake, said.

"It's good for the soul to get that out and make you feel better."

Repair clinic

- What: Earthquake-related repairs clinic. Get info on materials and techniques.

- When: 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

- Where: Home Depot, 1325 Fones Road S.E., Olympia.

- Cost: Free.

- For information: Call the store at 412-1900.

On the Web:

Visit www.onthehouse.com for earthquake reminders, preparedness tips and an "Aftermath Q and A." Search for "earthquake" in the field at the top of the site.

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