Episodes
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SHOW NOTES:
In this podcast episode, we debunk a popular but misguided lawn care strategy for mowing your grass. We’ll also discuss why metal roofs are winning over homeowners by promising protection for decades, then delve into advancements in hardwood flooring. Tune in for insights on tackling your home improvement projects with expert guidance!
- Lawn Care: Follow these mowing tips to ensure a healthy lawn that is a cut above the rest.
- Metal Roofs: Steel the show by installing a metal roof for durability, style, and energy efficiency.
- Hardwood Floors: Easy-to-install hardwood flooring brings beauty and value to a home.
Q & A:
- Brick Adhesive: Debbie is struggling to remove glue around her brick fireplace. There’s no way to do it without ruining the surface, so we suggest installing new plasterboard over the brick.
- Attic Ventilation: Paul has a tile roof with gable vents and a roof-mounted AC unit. We discuss his best options for attic ventilation.
- Hardwood Floors: What’s the best way to refinish a worn hardwood floor? Joyce gets tips on lightly sanding the surface and applying an oil-based polyurethane.
- Plywood Siding: Dennis has T1-11 siding and wants to change it. He can simply install Tyvek and HardiePlank siding right over the old siding.
- Exterior Paint: The paint is peeling and flaking off Donna’s cedar shingles. She must pressure wash and scrape off the old layers of paint, then use an oil-based primer for good adhesion before repainting the cedar siding.
- Sink Finish: Matthew has one sink flange that corrodes every time it’s replaced. It’s an odd problem that may be caused by the water acidity and the quality of the flange finish.
- Insect Screening: Flies are coming in under the edges of a barn roof. Diane should install screening over any vent openings and have a professional apply pesticide for flies.
- Heated Tile Floor: How should electric heating be installed under a tile bathroom floor? Tim gets advice on subfloor options and piping for the heated floor system.
- Roof Vents: Debra has ceiling stains directly under the roof vent pipes. It’s easy to replace any flashing and rubber boots that are deteriorated and cracked.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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In this one-stop shop for all things home improvement, we’ll tackle the war against bathroom germs, explore the art of building a paver patio that lasts, reveal expert tips for restoring rotted wood, and answer more questions from callers. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice homeowner, this episode has something for everyone!
- Bathroom Germs: Experts are flush with ideas on the best way to stop the spread of bathroom germs.
- Paver Patio: Get some tricks of the trade on building a paver patio that will last for years to come.
- Rotted Wood: When wet weather leads to rotted wood, learn how to restore and rebuild the damaged areas.
Q & A:
- Windows: Amy thinks her windows are discolored from water damage, but it’s probably normal fading from sun and rain. Sanding and exterior polyurethane can restore the finish.
- Shower Plumbing: The shower temperature changes whenever the toilet flushes. Brad needs to install a pressure balance valve to regulate the mix of hot and cold water.
- Pest Control: Ick! Kelly wants to get rid of bugs, slugs, and rodents. She must seal any gaps, remove any food that may attract rodents, and hire a professional for general pesticide treatment.
- Mortar Repair: The mortar is breaking apart between the doorframes and limestone of Steve’s home. He gets tips on removing the loose mortar and how to repoint those areas.
- Tree Roots: Large tree roots in Kevin’s yard are a problem. We suggest covering them with natural landscaping solutions like mulch, soil, or groundcover plants.
- Electrical Outlets: Pat has questions about installing GFCI outlets in his kitchen. They’re good to have and we explain how they work and how he can do it.
- Sealing Concrete: Past flooding left cracks in Bonnie’s basement floor. She can use silicone caulk to seal them and add a two-part epoxy product over the surface.
- Plumbing Noise: Robert’s new faucet is making a trumpet sound! He get tips on checking the washer and aerator for obstructions before having to replace the faucet.
- Ventilation: After reshingling his roof, Ken gets advice about removing the power vent, adding ridge vents, and completely opening the soffits to improve ventilation.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Get the practical advice you need in this episode, with tips on constructing a raised garden bed, optimizing garage space, and troubleshooting vacuum issues. From gardening to storage to cleaning, we’ve got tips to help homeowners with these and other home improvement questions!
- Raised Garden Bed: Get tips on building a raised garden bed for the perfect DIY project.
- Garage Space: A new survey reveals how homeowners are optimizing garage space in creative ways.
- Vacuum Repairs: Find out what to do when your vacuum cleaner’s suction sucks.
Q & A:
- Crack Over Stairs: Anne is worried that cracks above her stairs are caused by her house shifting. She needs a home inspector who specializes in structural issues.
- Drain Pipe: The cast iron drain pipe under Dan’s basement floor keeps clogging. He can get it relined with a fiberglass sleeve without having to remove the pipe.
- Rusty Bathtub: Can an old rusty cast iron tub be restored? Margaret could have it reglazed by a professional, but it may be better to just replace the tub.
- Window Replacement: What should be included in the cost of window replacement? Michael gets advice on quality indicators, measurements, and more.
- Basement HVAC: Mark has questions about the radiant heating above his basement ceiling. We’ve got suggestions about drop ceilings and disconnecting the heating.
- Shower Plumbing: Jackie is replacing an old tub with a tile shower. She’ll need to have a plumber reroute a new diverter valve.
- Garage Door: Scott’s garage doors freeze when snow melts off the cars. New rubber gaskets that won’t stick to ice and installing garage floor tiles that drain will help the problem.
- Hardwood Floors: What is the best way to maintain new hardwood floors? We’ve got concerns about steam cleaning and suggest checking the manufacturer’s instructions.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Today’s show has tips for crafting your perfect outdoor living space, asking key questions before hiring a contractor, and choosing the best tile for your next project. Whether your DIY project is indoors or outdoors, we’ve got the answers you need for all your home improvement questions!
- Outdoor Living: Follow these 5 tips for creating the perfect outdoor living space.
- Hiring Contractors: Choose wisely by asking these 5 key questions before hiring a home improvement professional.
- Choosing Tile: Learn how to pick the best type of tile for your project.
Q & A:
- HVAC Water: Gail’s boiler provides both the heat and the hot water. She needs to find out how to set the mixing valve so the shower water won’t be too hot.
- Bathroom Vent: Mike wonders about connecting his bathroom fan vent to the plumbing vent. He can’t do that, but we’ve got tips on how to run the exhaust vent to the outside.
- Plumbing: A cracked waste pipe flooded the basement. Helen should file an insurance claim and hire a remediation company to clean up the sewage damage.
- Foundation Cracks: Pat has multiple big cracks in his foundation walls. He’ll need a structural engineer to address the problem and design the proper repairs.
- Odors: Mason can’t find the source of odors in his home. We have a few ideas and give him tips on steam cleaning the carpets and priming and painting the walls to seal them.
- Textured Wall Prep: Dave wants to tile over a textured bathroom wall. Sanding the surface will give him better adhesion to glue the tile right over it.
- Kitchen Cabinet Lazy Susan: The top shelf of an old kitchen cabinet carousel has dropped. Marge gets advice on how to find parts and try to repair it.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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In this show, learn how to conquer clutter with a storage shed, decide between window repair versus replacement, and get expert advice and resources from a DIY guru and a leading retailer. Plus, we’ve got answers to lots more questions for all your home improvement projects!
- Storage Shed: Shed your outdoor clutter by building a backyard storage shed.
- Window Repair: This checklist helps you see clearly whether to repair or replace your windows.
- DIY Expert Advice: HGTV star and home improvement retailer offer advice for DIY projects.
Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.
- Mold: Karen has gotten some bad advice about mold on the basement walls. She must have samples tested to discover the correct mitigation plan to treat the mold.
- Water Heater: What’s the best kind of water heater for a large family? Mike should consider a tankless water heater to save energy and provide hot water instantly.
- Drafty Windows: Cold wind is blowing through Joyce’s apartment windows. She can seal the drafts by using shrink film or a temporary caulk.
- Jacuzzi Drain: A caustic cleaner burned the tub surface when Barry tried to clear the clogged drain. We have suggestions for different products that are better to use.
- Front Door: Rick just wants to replace his front door rather than the entire transom. We discuss the challenges and carpentry needed for the exact entry door replacement.
- Foundation Repair: Brenda’s poured cement basement walls are starting to crumble. She should hire a structural engineer to inspect the foundation and determine the best repair specifications.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Get budget-friendly apartment decorating ideas, add curb appeal with low-cost landscaping tips, and avoid the risks of hiring uninsured contractors with inspiration and information on today’s home improvement episode! Plus, listen in for answers to additional caller questions on a range of DIY projects.
- Apartment Décor: Get affordable apartment décor ideas to fit your budget and save your security deposit.
- Front Yard Landscaping: Create a welcome entry and add curb appeal with low-cost landscaping tips.
- Uninsured Contractors: If you’re hiring a contractor, protect yourself from liability by confirming they’re insured.
Q & A:
- Floor Tile Grout: Grout keeps chipping out from one area of Karen’s tile floor. She needs to remove it again and check to see if the surface is unstable.
- Red Cedar Roof: Phillip loves the way red cedar shingles age on other houses, but there’s no way to be sure how his own cedar shingles will darken over time unless he stains them.
- Structural Support: Trish wants to open up her kitchen, but it’s a big project to remove the load-bearing wall. We offer ideas on other ways to make the rooms look larger.
- Drywall Cracks: It’s not uncommon to have drywall cracks over doorways, but Brian needs advice on how to sand, tape, and spackle the wall so the cracks won’t return.
- Pouring Concrete: After cutting down a tree and grinding the stump, Bobbie wants to extend her sidewalk. She should rake out the sawdust and reinforce the hole with stone before pouring cement so it won’t crack.
- Fireplace: Two fireplaces and two chimneys are bringing smoke into Mike’s house. He should ask a chimney expert about improving the chimney draft.
- Wood Bathroom Décor: Should Melanie extend her untreated rustic knotty pine walls into her bathroom? It’s not a good idea, but there are better options that look like wood.
- Garbage Disposer: What size garbage disposer should Brandon get? We recommend a 1/2 to 3/4 HP model that he can install with basic plumbing and electrical skills.
- Radon: Should Sandra have her home tested for radon? We discuss using a DIY test, how to read the results, and guidelines for remediation if it’s needed.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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We’re sharing springtime secrets in this show, with tips for planting bulbs for a beautiful garden, breaking free of stuck windows to let the fresh air in, and protecting trees and shrubs with proper mulching. Spring forward and get home improvement info to last all year as we answer your timely questions!
- Spring Bulbs: Think flower power and plan ahead for spring by planting bulbs now.
- Stuck Windows: Break free of stuck windows with these easy tips.
- Mulch: Learn the right way to use mulch for insulating trees and shrubs.
Q & A:
- New Deck: Does Theresa really need to wait before staining her new wood deck? We explain why it’s necessary to allow fresh lumber to dry out and season before staining.
- Flooring: What kind of flooring can David use over his concrete slab? Engineered hardwood, engineered vinyl plans, and laminate are all good floating floor options.
- Cleaning Corian: Sharon’s porous Corian countertop is getting stained from water from the sink. We recommend some soft cleansers that she can try for this common problem.
- Water Heater: An old electric water heater is starting to leak and David is thinking about a tankless model. He should consider getting more efficient natural gas installed or using an electric heat pump water heater.
- Concrete Repair: Annie’s concrete front porch is crumbling, but there are Quikrete products that can adhere to the old concrete and provide a smooth and durable surface.
- Sewer Pipe: Linda is worried about replacing a cast iron sewer pipe that’s corroded and cracked. We assure her that any cracks can be easily sealed with silicone caulk.
- Grout Cleaning: How can Joe clean the ceramic tile kitchen grout? He gets tips on using grout cleaners and grout strippers.
- Floor Nails: Tammy has one floor nail that keeps popping up! It’s a common problem but easy to solve by removing the nail and replacing it with a trim screw.
- Water Heater: Are stains coming from Kim’s old water heater or from the water line? It does need to be replaced, and we give her some efficient options to choose from.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Get tips on safeguarding your yard against wildlife damage, preserving your leftover paint for future projects, and avoiding water damage by checking your gutters in today’s featured topics! Plus, get answers to even more home improvement questions for your next DIY adventures!
- Wildlife Damage: Get critter control tips to prevent wildlife damage to your yard and garden.
- Unused Paint: Extend the life of leftover paint by storing it the right way.
- Checking Gutters: Avoid water damage by checking gutters to ensure they’re flowing freely.
Q & A:
- Insects: With earwigs under the siding and crickets in the basement, Tara needs to call a pest control professional to apply pesticides to solve both problems.
- Countertops: Dave gets tips on removing his kitchen sink and reinforcing the wood supports under the countertop.
- Driveway Drainage: Water is pooling in Dot’s driveway. We have advice on installing a curtain drain along the side of the driveway to redirect the water.
- Painting: Joyce wants to cover smoke damage from a propane fireplace. She should first clean the surfaces well with TSP, then use an oil-based primer and latex paint.
- HVAC Water: There’s no hot water coming through Frank’s baseboard heating. An HVAC contractor should check the temperature sensor and the circulator controls.
- Basement Moisture: The concrete block walls in Nick’s basement continue to absorb moisture, but improving the drainage around the foundation will solve the problem.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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In this show, homeowners get advice on how to ensure their drinking water is safe, how to plan the right kind of fence, and how to save money on laundry day! With tips on everything from repairs to renovations and everything in between, we’re here to answer all your home improvement questions!
- Water Quality: Determining whether your drinking water is safe is a matter of pour judgement.
- Planning a Fence: Good fences make good neighbors as long as you plan them properly.
- Laundry Tips: Learn how to clean up on savings with efficient laundry tips.
Q & A:
- Gardening: Where should you locate a raised garden bed? Cynthia should plant her garden in full sun, on the side of the house with southern exposure.
- Hardwood Floor Damage: There’s a swollen area where water leaked onto Heather’s hardwood floor. It would be hard to match the stain, but she can use some of the original flooring from a hidden area to replace the damaged piece.
- Cedar Walls: Cedar walls in Brian’s home have darkened around his pictures. He can sand and stain the walls or simply hide the discoloration with similar wall hangings.
- Flies: Ick! Karen has cluster flies coming from the heat registers in her floor. They’re common, but we suggest hiring a pest control professional who can use the right pesticides.
- Roof Replacement: Mark gets tips about installing metal roofing on his low-slope roof.
- HVAC Duct Cleaning: Is it worth having your HVAC ducts cleaned? We explain why it’s more important for Sherry to invest in good-quality filters and replace them regularly.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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How can you extend your outdoor space, upgrade yard hydration, and improve indoor air quality? Learn about building a backyard deck, installing a rainwater collection system, and making the most of your vent fans in today’s home improvement episode, plus more tips to create your best home ever!
- Backyard Deck: Get your outdoor living space all decked out by building a backyard deck.
- Rainwater Collection: Make every drop count with a rainwater collection system to hydrate your yard and garden.
- Vent Fans: Find out why vent fans are your most overlooked appliances that control moisture and improve air quality.
Q & A:
- Floor Drain: Patricia’s garage floor drain is clogged but she can’t remove the grate. We suggest running a drain snake through the side yard access and using a vacuum to clear the grate.
- Water Heater: Will an electric heat pump water heater affect the indoor climate? Karl is making the most efficient choice and shouldn’t worry about any negative impact.
- Cleaning Grout: Nicole wants to get her bathroom grout white again. She’ll need to use a professional grout cleaner or grout stripper to get it as clean as possible.
- Bathtub Remodel: Randy is removing his old tub and installing a handicap-accessible shower. We recommend a line of bathroom systems that can be easily customized.
- Popcorn Ceiling: Should you repair or remove a popcorn ceiling that’s pulling away at the edges? Debbie has a few options to choose from.
- Composite Decking: If you’re tired of replacing wood deck boards, is composite decking a good alternative? Carl learns why it’s a great, durable choice and easy to do.
- Quartz Countertops: Iris gets information about changing her granite countertops to quartz, which costs about the same but is more durable, stain resistant, and easier to maintain.
- Emergency Exit: A basement egress window will be too high above the floor. James learns about a line of products that can be installed to adapt to the exterior space.
- Bathroom Vent: The bathroom exhaust fan isn’t removing the humidity well. Diane should make sure it clearly vents outside the building and install a humidistat.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Today’s show is about cleaning quirks, lush lawns, and illuminating insights. Listen as we discuss the one room we all dread cleaning, dig deep into the secrets of soil, and shed light on exterior lighting. Tune in for expert advice and ideas for all your home improvement questions!
- Bathroom Cleaning: It may be spring cleaning season, but this is the one room people most hate to clean.
- Lawn Care: Grow a lush lawn by using superior soil.
- Exterior Lighting: Add safety, security, and style with a great exterior lightscaping design.
Q & A:
- Deck Stain: Should Dawn use a sealant over her solid deck stain? There’s no need to seal the wood surface if she uses a good-quality deck stain.
- Replacement Windows: Steve has gotten a wide range of price quotes for replacement windows. We offer tips on choosing the best windows and getting reliable estimates on Angi.com.
- Sliding Doors: Moisture and ice are forming in the bottom rail of sliding doors. Sherry gets advice on how to check and adjust the door alignment to seal any gaps.
- Patio Addition: Mike has lots of reasons to be concerned about a sunroom that was built over a concrete patio slab. He needs advice from a structural engineer or architect.
- Cleaning Countertops: What’s the best way to clean a granite countertop? Janet learns that granite requires regular maintenance and gets suggestions on products to use.
- Roof Leak: Josh wants to paint over a water stain in his bathroom ceiling. First, he should replace the rubber gasket and flashing around the roof vent pipe.
- Lighting Cords: How can you hide the cords from LED lighting in the bathroom? Patrice has some options for lighting fixtures or can have an electrician run the wires behind the trim work.
- Basement Flooring: Is engineered wood flooring alright to install in a basement? Jack can use engineered wood that’s rated for basements or consider laminate flooring.
- HVAC Noise: Tammy’s new furnace makes a buzzing noise when it turns on. It could be a bad sign that the breaker box is deteriorating and should be checked by an electrician.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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In this episode, get helpful tips about early spring gardening, efficient garbage disposals, and safe garage storage solutions. From plants to trash to avoiding toxins and clutter, we’ve got answers to these and other questions from homeowners like you!
- Spring Gardening: Get ready to spring forward with tips for making your garden grow early in the season.
- Garbage Disposals: Cut down on food waste with these garbage disposal options.
- Safe Garage Storage: Keep toys and tools away from toxins with safe garage storage.
Q & A:
- Kitchen Range: Cindy has a small house with a big stove that burned the kitchen cabinet. She should contact the manufacturer for the proper installation specifications.
- House Listing: When selling a house that’s been remodeled, how can you describe the upgrades? Mike gets advice on how to list his home and provide an inventory of improvements.
- Electrical and Plumbing: Karen gets tips on how often to check the circuit breakers and how to check for plumbing leaks in her home.
- Insulation: What is the best way to insulate a basement? We suggest that Jeff first check the exterior drainage to control moisture and give him three options for insulation.
- Bathroom Window: Christina is remodeling and has questions about what to do with a window above her tub. She’s got options for installing a privacy window.
- Heated Flooring: How should Kirk install heated flooring for a new house addition? Running it through the fireplace is inefficient, but we have tips on how to do it better.
- Drafts: Anne needs to seal the drafts through her windows, floors, and cabinets. Weatherstripping, caulk, and insulation in the floor box beams will stop the drafts.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Learn about laundry, layouts, and longevity on today’s show, as we discuss the best and worst laundry detergents, kitchen layouts that maximize space and functionality, and how the age of your home influences needed repairs. Tune in for all this and more home improvement questions and answers!
- Laundry Detergent: If clean laundry is an ongoing drama, you may need to use a better detergent.
- Kitchen Design: When updating your kitchen, be sure the layout offers improved functionality.
- Home Repairs by Age: Find out how the age of your home can determine when you’re likely to need certain repairs.
Q & A:
- Types of Roofing: Should Debbie choose a shingle or metal roof? Metal roofs will last a lifetime, but the ROI will depend upon how long she plans to live in the house.
- Driveway Stains: Rubber marks are impossible to remove from an asphalt driveway. Ryan gets some DIY tips to reseal the driveway to cover them up.
- Insulation: Old attic insulation is dried out and falling down. Claudia can replace it but should consider installing spray foam insulation in the rafters as a great alternative.
- Woodpeckers: Persistent woodpeckers are drilling holes in Bruce’s cedar siding. Tin pie plates, strips of black plastic, and hot sauce are a few ways he may dissuade them.
- Hot Water: It takes too long for hot water to get to the kitchen sink and upstairs bathroom, even with a recirculating pump near the water heater. Jim should consider installing a tankless water heater with smart technology.
- Lighting: Laurie wants to change an old fluorescent light fixture in the closet to LED and gets details on how to determine the amount of lumens she needs.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Sleep soundly after listening to tips on buying the right mattress at the best price, banishing weeds from your garden, and tackling drywall repairs like a pro. Whether you’re a DIY expert or a novice, you’ll want to hear answers to these and more of our callers’ home improvement questions on this episode!
- Buying a Mattress: Rest easy with tips on how to buy the right mattress and when to get the best deals.
- Weed Control: Spring is the season for weed warfare, so find out how to eliminate dandelions and other green invaders.
- Drywall Repairs: Keep cracks, holes, and nail pops from returning with the right DIY drywall repairs.
Q & A:
- Enclosed Porch: Marla wants to enclose an old porch with lots of columns. We suggest having an architect create a design that won’t ruin the look of the house.
- Water Heater: Louis wants the best gas water heater that will last a long time. We recommend a more efficient model with an electric ignition or a tankless water heater.
- Crawlspace: Should you dig down in a crawlspace to create more room? Sara learns why it’s a bad idea that could undermine the foundation and how to create a Yankee basement.
- Plumbing: What is needed to restart water that’s been turned off for a long time? Keith gets step-by-step instructions for turning on the water and checking for plumbing leaks.
- Foundation: Brendan’s raised house was sagging and he had it leveled, but questions advice for adding sand. He should be more concerned with managing water around the perimeter to prevent movement.
- Elevator: Want to install an elevator in your home? It’s becoming a popular option, and Rosalie will only need to block out a small space with access on each floor.
- Home Warranty: Larry calls in with an update on problems he’s had with a new home that weren’t covered by a home warranty and thanks us for giving him good advice.
- Flooring Repair: LuAnn needs to repair and replace a floor that was damaged by pets. Before installing a new floor, she must use an oil-based primer to seal the subfloor.
- Door Repair: The finger joints are starting to decay on Fred’s glass pane door. We suggest some products he can use to repair the door instead of replacing it.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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Get tips on aspects of home energy management, from signs it’s time for an electrical upgrade to the nuances between various home heating fuels to ways of sealing and insulating your attic access panels! Plus, we’ve got home improvement advice for callers on a wide range of topics that you’ll want to know!
- Electrical Upgrade: Get ready to power up and know when it’s time to get an electrical upgrade.
- Heating Options: Learn the differences between oil, gas, propane, and electric heating options.
- Attic Access: Prevent energy loss by sealing and insulating your attic access panel.
Q & A:
- Shaking Washing Machine: Laura’s washing machine is shimmying on her laminate floor. She should make sure the appliance is level and balanced and use anti-vibration pads under the appliance.
- Cleaning Stainless Steel: Tom is frustrated by stains on the stainless steel appliances. They look great but need to be polished regularly with a recommended product.
-Pipe Insulation: MaryAnn’s uninsulated laundry room is too cold! We suggest insulating the pipes to avoid freezing and adding a baseboard heater to warm the room.
- Heated Floor: David is renovating a brownstone home and gets advice on how to add radiant heating under the floor.
- Radon: Is radon a potential hazard in a home built on a slab foundation? The risk is lower, but it would be easy for Kathy to get a DIY radon test kit.
- Sewer Odors: There’s an awful sewer odor coming from the shower drain. Gene should use bleach or an oxygenated bleach cleaner to get rid of any bio-gas bacteria.
- Insulation Options: What’s the difference between open- and closed-cell spray foam insulation? John learns how to choose which type of insulation to use in his old home.
- Floor Tile Cracks: June loves heated flooring and gets information on using a membrane product with a heating system to prevent the ceramic tile floor from cracking.
- Structural Support: Alvin’s ranch home is showing signs of serious structural damage. He needs a structural engineer to design the proper repairs to jack up the house.
- Smart Thermostat: The thermostat is located in the area of the house that Michelle wants to close off, but she can get a smart thermostat with wireless sensors for each room.
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Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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SHOW NOTES:
In this home improvement episode, we’ll tackle small bathroom makeovers to save space and add style, give tips on selecting the best HVAC filters for optimal air quality, and discuss how driveway markers can enhance safety and curb appeal. Tune in for expert insights and answers to more homeowner questions!
- Bathroom Makeover: Make every inch count with a space-saving small bathroom makeover.
- HVAC Filters: Breathe easy by choosing the right HVAC filter to clear the air of springtime allergens.
- Driveway Markers: Make your house stand out with a driveway marker that adds safety and curb appeal.
Q & A:
- Windows: Condensation and foggy windows are signs that the thermal seal is failing on old windows. Ruth would be better off replacing the windows instead of repairing them.
- Sliding Doors: Cold drafts are blowing through Anthony’s old sliding glass doors. Newer sliding doors would be better insulated and curtains can block the cold glass.
- Countertops: Diane wants to refinish her original Formica laminate countertops We recommend a DIY product that can create the look of a stone surface in a weekend.
- Fireplace Moisture: David gets advice on installing flashing so that water from the roof will be diverted around the chimney.
- Bath Mat Adhesive: Kimberly can’t remove a mat that’s stuck to the bottom of the tub. WD-40 or a citrus-based adhesive remover may help, but the tub surface could get damaged in the process.
- Concrete Repair: Charlie’s painted concrete patio is flaking and pitted. He needs to pressure wash and scrape it first, then repair the concrete before using an epoxy paint.
- Refinishing Old Walls: Susan uncovered wood under the sheetrock of her old home. We’ve got tips on how to sand, stain, and seal the wood with a flat varnish.
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SHOW NOTES:
This home improvement episode is all about safety, including common fire hazards associated with fireplaces and stoves, options for safe cleaning products, and the risks of hiring uninsured contractors. Listen to hear more about these and other callers’ questions to keep your home safe, sound, and comfortable!
- Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety: Learn how fireplaces and wood-burning stoves can be dangerous causes of house fires.
- Safe Cleaning Products: Get tips for choosing cleaning products with safer ingredients.
- Uninsured Contractors: Find out how hiring uninsured or unlicensed contractors poses risks that are your responsibility.
Q & A:
- Laminate Flooring: The seams in Judy’s Pergo laminate floor are bubbling up, either from moisture or after being installed incorrectly, and the floor will need to be redone.
- Gutter Guards: John’s gutter is overflowing, even with gutter guards installed. The water may be running too fast down a steep roof and washing over the guards, but he should check to see if they need to be replaced.
- Painting Tile: Can outdated bathroom tile be painted over? Chris gets tips on how to do it, but it may not last long and she may want to decorate around the tile colors for now.
- Wet Basement: There is condensation in the outlets and an odor coming from Ed’s basement. We offer info on improving exterior drainage, installing a dehumidifier, and removing carpeting and paneling that are harboring moisture-related bacteria.
- Dishwasher Clog: The bottom of the dishwasher fills with water after it runs. Mary needs a plumber to locate the obstruction in the plumbing line.
- Blocked Toilet: When Beth flushes the toilet, the water rises to the rim and then goes down slowly. A plumber can clear the partial clog that’s somewhere beyond the drain.
- Cracked Concrete: A crack in Mike’s concrete slab floor is not structural, so it can easily be repaired with a cement patching compound.
- HVAC Condensation: Gail’s contractor has moisture from her HVAC system dripping directly into the crawlspace. She needs to install a condensate pump to direct the water outside the house.
- Structural Insulation: Brad is boxing out the eaves behind the knee wall in an upstairs bedroom and finds out where to install additional insulation.
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Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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SHOW NOTES:
Join us as we reveal the pro secrets to crystal-clear windows, the benefits of high-efficiency washers and dryers, and the potential of basement bedrooms! If you’re seeking the answers to these or other home improvement challenges from today’s callers, we’re here to help!
- Cleaning Windows: Get crystal clear results with tips on the best way to clean windows.
- Washers and Dryers: Find out whether high-efficiency washers and dryers are worth the additional cost.
- Basement Bedrooms: Adding a basement bedroom can be a good idea, as long as it complies with building safety codes.
Q & A:
- HVAC Filters: What kind of filter should Sandra use for her furnace? You get what you pay for, and high-quality filters provide better filtration to trap more allergens.
- Cracked Concrete: Roy has a crack in the driveway slab near his garage. Mud jacking will work to replace that area by filling in the low spots and tamping down a solid base.
- Countertop Repair: Is there a way to repair scratches in a Corian countertop? Gayla gets info about products to clean and restore the countertop finish, or having the surface lightly sanded and polished.
- Water Heater: James noticed moisture inside his water heater, but no leak. It’s probably normal condensation, but we share tips on installing a timer and how to adjust the water temperature.
- Fireplace: Keith wants to update the look of his red brick fireplace and hearth. We offer some ideas such as applying a stone veneer, tiles, or paint in complementary colors.
- Smoke Odors: A burning pot on the stove created smoke throughout Margie’s home and she can’t get rid of the awful smoke smell. She may need a company that specializes in fire and smoke cleanup.
- Gutters: Can the rotted fascia board be removed without having to take apart everything? Derwin can’t avoid it, but it’s a good opportunity to replace the wood with another product.
- Wallpaper Removal: Jan found a paper lining behind her wallpaper and is concerned about damaging the sheetrock. If the paper is adhered well, she can add texture over it.
- Toilet Stain: Sparky can’t figure out why only one toilet keeps getting a black ring. He can try CLR to clean it, but there may be something different about that toilet’s porcelain finish.
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Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, learn about three kinds of safety tips: keeping kids safe by babyproofing your home, keeping fabrics and surfaces safe from red wine stains, and keeping your back safe by installing a heated driveway to eliminate snow shoveling! Plus, hear answers to a wide range of additional homeowner questions from Money Pit callers!
- Child Safety: Baby on the way? Keep kids safe with important tips for babyproofing your home.
- Stain Removal: After a merlot mishap or a cabernet crisis, here’s how to remove red wine stains.
- Heated Driveways: If you’ve had enough of shoveling snow, you may want to invest in a heated driveway.
Q & A:
- Floor Beams: Wendy’s renovating her old house and gets advice on how to add support to the beams and plywood under her kitchen floor.
- Driveway Mold: Mold keeps growing in the shady area of the driveway. We suggest a mildewcide product with a residual effect that David can easily apply.
- Crawlspace Moisture: Irena’s house is on a slope, with rainwater coming into the crawlspace. We explain how to install a French drain to intercept the runoff and redirect the water around the house.
- Heating and Cooling: The upstairs rooms are too hot and the downstairs rooms are too cold! Jessie should check the airflow at all the registers and return ducts, adjust the dampers, and consider adding a supplemental system.
- Cleaning Tile: Old bathroom tile has lost its shine. Sherry’s tiles may actually have a matte finish without a glaze, but we have tips for cleaning the tiles to improve their appearance.
- Light Dimmers: Why do the lights flicker when they’re dimmed? Tim should make sure the LED bulbs are listed as dimmable and look into a certain line of dimmer switches.
- Electrical Spark: Ming’s automatic closet door light sometimes sparks. That’s an immediate fire hazard that needs to be replaced immediately!
- Service Contracts: Who’s responsible for water lines that run from the street to your home? Manny shouldn’t be fooled by the scare tactics he gets in the mail for unnecessary service contracts.
- Vandalism: A former tenant poured cement down the drains of Bonnie’s rental property! The repairs would be covered by insurance, but that’s vandalism that also warrants criminal charges.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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SHOW NOTES:
Join us as we discuss some helpful homeowner essentials, like how often you should be washing your germy towels, selecting the toughest hardwood flooring, and keeping severe weather worries at bay! Get answers to these and more home improvement questions in our latest podcast episode.
- Washing Towels: Find out some dirty secrets about bath towels and how often they should be washed.
- Hardwood Floors: Ratings reveal the toughest types of hardwood flooring.
- Severe Weather: Homeowners share their leading concerns about severe weather damage.
Q & A:
- New Construction: Are there lemon laws for new homes? Tina gets advice on reporting home warranty issues and hiring a home inspector to examine the problems.
- Garage Floor Repair: Mike’s got cracks in his slab garage floor. We’ve got tips for using a crack filler and sealer, then recoating the floor to give it a beautiful finish.
- Roof Leak: Rain is blowing through the roof dryer vents into Pat’s house. We discuss changing the type of roof vent and how to check the flashing around the vent.
- Smart Switches: Phillip is having a hard time finding smart switches to fit the wiring in his home. We suggest a product line that offers sophisticated smart home controls and good tech support.
- Wood Siding: What’s the best way to fill gaps in wood siding? Jennifer gets info about using steel wool, caulk, or spray foam insulation before priming and painting the area.
- Insulation: When does an old house need more insulation? Barb can add unfaced fiberglass batting on top of and perpendicular to existing insulation that’s flat and sagging.
- Home Additions: Matthew wants to increase the square footage of his ranch home. Adding a second floor would probably offer a better ROI than a basement.
- Deck Stain: Can Paula stain and seal her deck with one product? Exterior deck stains do both and we recommend choosing a good quality solid stain that will last longer.
- Dishwasher Repair: Jackie’s dishwasher stopped drying the dishes and mold is starting to build up. The heating element must have failed, but it may be better to replace the dishwasher than to repair it.
ASK A QUESTION:
Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask.
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