Episodes
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SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, learn how to choose firewood that maximizes heat and safety, discover the smart way to shop for a new furnace before an emergency strikes, and find out how to grow fresh veggies and herbs indoors all year long. Make your home cozy and efficient plus get more home improvement advice on today’s Money Pit!
- Firewood: Fuel your fire right with facts for choosing great firewood.
- Furnaces: Cut costs and stay warm by buying a new and more efficient furnace.
- Container Gardens: Enjoy herbs and vegetables all year long with an indoor container garden.
Q & A:
- Roofing: Insurance should cover damage from the leak in the seam of Steve’s flat roof, including fixing or replacing the ceiling, insulation, and roof, plus applying a mold inhibitor.
- Woodwork: Paula needs to repair old woodwork throughout her home. It’s a lot of work to replace it all, so we suggest cleaning, priming, and painting the molding.
- Heating: Virgil’s new energy-efficient furnace in his vacation home stopped working and everything froze. He should contact the contractor and the manufacturer to check the recommended venting installation.
- House Leveling: The main beam under the house is broken and the kitchen is sinking. Diana gets advice for bolting a new beam to the existing one instead of raising the floor.
- Plumbing: The basement toilet gurgles and won’t flush all the way. Rick should have a professional drainage company find and clear the blockage.
- Cleaning Concrete: What’s the best way to clean a concrete fireplace hearth? Sharon can scrub it with a TSP mixture, let it sit, and blot it dry or else consider a concrete stain.
- Flooring: John has no access to heat a small room over the crawlspace. He can either break through the wall to create space to insulate or add a layer of insulated subfloor.
- Windows: The seal is broken on George’s tinted glass window. We recommend replacing it with an ENERGY STAR-rated window with the right glass and coating.
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:
On today’s show, get festive with front door decorating tips that make a great first impression, learn how to properly clean and disinfect your home to keep germs at bay, and discover an innovative way to stop a running toilet from wasting water. Don’t miss these and other quick and impactful home improvement ideas as we answer questions from DIY callers!
- Holiday Décor: Welcome guests to your home with door décor to sleigh the holiday season.
- Cleaning: Wipe out germs with these cleaning tips for sanitary surfaces.
- Running Toilet: This innovative toilet flapper flushes away water waste from a leaky toilet.
Q & A:
- Wallpaper Removal: Thomas needs advice for removing wallpaper. It’s a lot of work, but we’ve got tips for using a paper tiger tool, wallpaper paste remover, or a wallpaper steamer.
- Caulk: Can caulk be applied in colder temperatures? Silicone caulk could work with no expansion issues, but it may not flow as freely and will be harder to level out.
- Painting Paneling: Dena wants to cover dark wood paneling in every room. We recommend cleaning, lightly sanding, and priming the surface before painting over it.
- Faucets: Is it a good idea to open faucet valves all the way before reducing the flow? Rich learns it’s not necessary with new ceramic faucet valves that won’t wear out.
- Insulation: It’s always colder or hotter upstairs in Linda’s home. We suggest adding blown-in insulation, ensuring baffles are in place, and covering the whole house fan in winter to prevent heat loss.
- Shower Odor: A sour smell is coming from the shower drain. Heidi should scrub it with Borox or oxygenated bleach and install a timer or humidistat on the bathroom vent fan.
- Old Windows: Don gets advice for using a heat gun or steamer to carefully warm and remove old putty from a historic poured glass window that needs to be reglazed.
- Wood Siding: Can Sherry install redwood siding over the flat plywood siding? It’s easy to do by applying tar paper first and attaching the new siding right over it.
- Concrete Countertop: Lane is thinking of creating an affordable concrete countertop. It’s a lot of work, but good prep and a strong building form are key.
- Bathroom Floor: Mark wants to run heated bathroom flooring off a gas water heater, but it’s not cost-effective due to the piping needed and the boiler not heating well enough.
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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Missing episodes?
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SHOW NOTES:
On today’s episode, we’ll reveal the top 5 remodeling mistakes to avoid, share tips for choosing a safe and efficient space heater, and teach you how to spot a fresh Christmas tree. Plus, listen in for expert answers to more DIY home improvement questions from callers like you!
- Remodeling: Avoid renovation regrets caused by these top 5 home remodeling mistakes.
- Space Heaters: Warm up wisely by choosing a safe and efficient space heater.
- Christmas Trees: Get tree-mendous tips for finding the freshest live Christmas tree.
Q & A:
- Wood Stove Safety: Will a wood stove harm the electrical wiring behind it? Melina must install a heat shield and/or put the stove 3 feet from the wall to avoid a fire hazard.
- Shower Remodel: Jim wants to replace his shower. We’ll discuss different budget options, from affordable and easy liners to a complete renovation with a shower kit.
- Flooring: What kind of backer board should Steve use under the new floor tile? His subfloor is pretty solid, so a ¼-inch backer board should be fine.
- Windows: Some of Donna’s old double-pane windows don’t open or close. It’s possible to repair them if she can find the parts, but it would be better to replace the windows.
- HVAC: Lou’s hot water HVAC system is not heating the second floor. An HVAC professional can do diagnostics to look for an obstruction or faulty valve.
- Ventilation and Insulation: Christine gets answers to several questions about insulating and ventilating her garage and the use of ridge vents and soffit vents.
- Bathtub: Can you remove an old bathtub and replace it with a walk-in shower? It can be done, but Jeff should consider his home’s resale value if there are no other tubs.
- Wood Countertop: Is a wood countertop a good, easy option for Ann’s under-mount kitchen sink? Unfortunately, wood is a lot of work to finish and maintain.
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:
In this episode, we’re simplifying window shopping with tips for reading energy labels, sharing a weekend-friendly solution for sleek granite-look countertops, and helping you safely deck the halls for the holidays. Tune in to The Money Pit to hear expert advice and answers to your DIY dilemmas!
- New Windows: Window buying is made clear as glass with these tips for decoding window energy labels.
- Stone Countertops: Give your countertops a sleek and stunning granite finish with an easy DIY kit.
- Holiday Lighting: Twinkle without trouble by taking the right precautions for holiday lighting.
Q & A:
- Wallpaper: Wallpaper seams keep curling up on one wall, but Nora can try using a seam repair adhesive product that gets good reviews.
- Distressed Wood: Cliff is making picture frames and wants to make the barn wood look old. We’ve got tips for beating up the wood before staining the surface.
- Deck Boards: There is no space between Cindy’s porch deck boards, making water pool and freeze. It’s easy to fix by using a circular saw to cut a small seam between the boards.
- Closet Space: Matt wants to change the opening of a narrow closet from the short wall to the long wall. We recommend building a temporary load-bearing wall while he does the work.
- Cleaning Grout: How should Lisa clean the grout of her porcelain floor tiles in high-traffic areas? A grout stripper would be stronger than a grout cleaner.
- Floor Stain: A dark spray paint can leaked on Tiffany’s laminate floor! She should carefully use acetone nail polish remover, which won’t remove the floor’s durable finish.
- Insulation: Georgianne’s bedrooms with outside walls get very cold. We offer ideas for using a clock thermostat, insulating the attic, and sealing drafty windows and outlets.
- Countertops: Mark needs ideas for making a dark Formica countertop lighter. We recommend a Daich Coatings kit that offers the perfect solution for a DIY countertop.
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:
Today, we’ll show you how to store leftover paint properly and put it to good use. If you’re planning to sell your home, find out what kitchen mistakes could scare off buyers. Plus, we’re breaking down whether extended warranties are worth the price. Tune in for DIY tips, tricks, and answers to your home improvement questions!
- Warranties: Are extended warranties worthwhile or worthless? Find out when to buy and when to pass.
- Leftover Paint: Get fresh looks from old cans with tips for storing and using leftover paint.
- Home Selling: Don’t let these stale kitchen mistakes cook your home sale.
Q & A:
- Countertops: Cheryl needs ideas for resurfacing plywood countertops. Laminate or tile may be the quickest, easiest, and most affordable options.
- Flooring: Mike wants to replace the old kitchen vinyl floor with tile, but laminate flooring is a better choice that would take less room on top of the existing floor.
- Leaking Roof: The corrugated metal roof keeps leaking. Cindy gets advice for adding a second layer of roof with an ice and water shield in between or replacing the entire roof.
- Real Estate: Marilyn’s military family is moving again and she has questions about real estate. We discuss the pros and cons of buying, renting, and property taxes.
- Energy Savings: Will drop ceilings improve the heating efficiency in Cary’s home that’s powered off the grid? Yes, and adding insulation above it will make a huge difference.
- Brick Mortar: Mortar is coming out from various places around the brick. Barbara should hire a professional mason with the right skills to repoint the mortar.
- Insulation: There’s very little access for Dan to insulate under the floor of the back porch. He may be able to add spray foam insulation or dig out a crawlspace.
- Igloo: Lonnie is thinking of buying a concrete domed building, but needs suggestions on how to manage moisture and design a professional HVAC system.
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:
In this show, learn how to safeguard your plumbing from a winter freeze. Then, find out how the EPA’s new tool can prove energy-saving payoffs. Plus, we’ve got easy solutions for tough-to-clean tile floors. Have a project in mind? Listen in for answers to all your home improvement questions!
- Frozen Pipes: Freeze out frozen pipe disasters by protecting your plumbing this winter.
- Saving Energy: Power up with a new EPA program that boosts your home energy saving IQ.
- Floor Cleaning: Get expert grime-fighter tips for cleaning tough stains from tile floors.
Q & A:
- Toilet Valves: Tom wants to change the shut-off valves on his toilets. We offer tips for trimming back the pipe for a clean cut before slipping on a new compression valve.
- Cabinet Repair: Laurie’s kitchen cabinets got damaged when the floors were refinished. Remixing the paint and carefully touching up only the dinged areas will help.
- Plumbing: The bathroom pipes started vibrating after the tub was replaced. Crystal learns that the pipe brackets may not have been secured well enough.
- Outdoor Fountain: The bowel of Jack’s outdoor fountain is porous and leaking. We suggest draining and drying it well, then applying an epoxy compound to seal it.
- Snow on Roof: When snow accumulates on Terry’s glass sunroof, it slides off in sheets. She should call the manufacturer to see about adding ice guard brackets.
- Security: Robert’s property keeps getting broken into over and over! We discuss installing LED motion sensor lights and a camera system with a monitoring service.
- Uneven Floor: Deb’s floor is uneven and the stairs are twisting. It would be easier for her to adjust the staircase than to rebuild the floor.
- Insulation: Is spray foam insulation a good option to use above a basement drop ceiling? Pete wouldn’t have access to any pipes, so thermal fiber or fiberglass insulation are better choices.
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:
In this show, we’ll help you assess your roof’s winter readiness, reveal the best and worst appliance brands, and show you how to expand attic storage safely. Plus, we’re here to help you tackle any home improvement challenge with confidence, so listen in for expert answers to all your questions!
- Attic Space: Find storage room under the rafters by adding attic floor space.
- Appliance Rankings: Consumer Reports’ appliance rankings reveal best buys and big regrets.
- Roof Care: Learn whether you should repair, replace, or rejuvenate your roof in time for winter.
Q & A:
- Foundation Drainage: Does Jill really need a double drainage system for the home she’s building? It’s a smart idea and we recommend having a good pitch and installing larger gutters.
- Plumbing: The bathroom plumbing is new but the water comes out rusty. Randall should install a whole-house water filter on the main line.
- Countertop: Is there a way to refinish a stained white marble countertop? Katherine can use a Daich Coatings kit to easily do it in the weekend.
- Marble: Should Gary seal a marble table after staining it? We discuss various products to clean, polish, and seal the surface.
- Dirt Floor: Rob wants to put concrete over the dirt floor in a hut. He gets instructions on how to tamp down the dirt, then pour and levelly spread the concrete.
- Fireplace: Lynn is looking for ideas on how to change the façade of her fireplace. Marble, granite, and faux stone are all great options that can adhere right onto the brick.
- Soundproofing: Gloria needs to block out the noise from her upstairs neighbor. We explain how to add Green Glue or soundproofing drywall, plus seal around any fixtures.
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:
Today, learn how to maintain your washer and dryer to prevent floods and fires, keep stink bugs out with some sweet tricks, and choose the perfect mattress upgrades for a sound sleep. Plus, we’re sharing tips to help you make your home improvement plans a reality, so join the conversation!
- Stinkbugs: Stinkbug invasions really stink, but there are ways to banish the bugs.
- Washers and Dryers: Prevent floods and fires with washer and dryer maintenance.
- Mattress Shopping: Snooze, don’t lose, with tips for buying a new mattress.
Q & A:
- Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees are eating away at Norma’s wood patio. She gets tips for professional pest control treatment and for replacing wood with composite materials.
- Siding Repair: How can Ron reattach vinyl siding that’s coming loose? It’s easy to do if he has the right tool to bend the edges so he can connect the adjoining pieces.
- Insulation: David’s old insulation is falling from the attic rafters. He should maximize the insulation in the floor joists by adding a layer of new insulation.
- Metal Roof: Sally wonders if it’s a good idea to install a metal roof. It’s a great long-lasting investment, but the ROI depends on how long you’re staying the house.
- Plumbing: When one toilet flushes, the toilet in the other bathroom drains. John needs to check the roof vent pipe to see if there’s an obstruction that’s blocking proper venting.
- Worn Decking: Is there a way to fix a worn deck without replacing it? We suggest that Joan flip the deck boards over to the other side, which probably looks like new.
- Refinishing Stairs: Should Jason apply water-based polyurethane to new wood stairs? A solvent-based polyurethane in a satin finish would hold up better to abrasion.
- Old Windows: James has condensation in the windows of his historic home. He can’t change the window casing, but he can reduce the indoor humidity with a whole house dehumidifier.
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:
In today’s show, we’ll share solutions for keeping plants thriving during winter, offer expert advice to avoid holiday plumbing disasters, and reveal why fall is the ideal season to kick off a composting project. Plus, listen in as callers get answers to their DIY home improvement questions!
Winter Plants: Enjoy winter greens with tips to keep indoor plants thriving in the cold season.
Plumbing Problems: Get plumbing tips to avoid clogs and flush holiday woes away.
Fall Composting: Learn why fall is a perfect time to start a composting pile.
Q & A:
- Concrete Repairs: Which kind of mortar mix is best for fixing a concrete porch? Mindy has lots of questions about the best choices for various repairs using Quikrete products.
- Bathroom Remodel: Jim is worried about water damage from a window in a remodeled bathroom. We suggest leaving the window and putting a waterproof curtain over it.
- Cleaning Windows: Is there an easy way to clean your outside windows? Marie won’t find many DIY shortcuts, but can try using a concentrate product or hiring a professional.
- Construction Materials: We discuss insulated concrete foam blocks with David and why they’re a good, durable, and quiet construction material option.
- Garbage Disposal: When Eden turns on the garbage disposal, it backs up into the other sink. She gets tips on how to clear the drain line obstruction.
- Damp Crawlspace: Rich still has a musty smell in the crawlspace after installing a vapor barrier and improving drainage. A dehumidifier and fans with a humidistat could help.
- Caulking Gap: Julianne needs to fill the gap under the back door sill. She can use an epoxy patching cement to reinforce the space.
- Ridge Vent: Robert is trying to find a particular ridge vent for metal roofs. He can check online for manufacturers that make them and where to buy them or have them shipped.
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:
In this episode, we share smart tips for slashing heating costs, maximizing tax benefits with end-of-year home improvements, and sealing drafts with an innovative spray foam product. Plus, hear practical advice for callers who have home improvement questions of their own!
- Home Repairs and Taxes: Don’t overlook DIY deductions with these tax-saving home improvements.
- Heating Bills: Lower your utility bills by addressing the three most common home heating mistakes.
- Sealing Drafts: This DIY spray foam system makes it easy to seal gaps and stop drafts.
Q & A:
- Bathroom Flooring: What kind of flooring is best for a kids’ bathroom? Michelle gets recommendations for flooring products that are durable, affordable, and easy to clean.
- Water Filtration: John wants to improve the taste and quality of his water. We share info about a reverse osmosis filtration system that’s compact and efficient.
- Plumbing: Kate gets step-by-step instructions for replacing a laundry room sink and cabinet, and when to call a plumber if she runs into any plumbing issues.
- Electrical Wiring: Ken’s light switch is controlled in two locations and not working properly. It’s actually a three-way switch that’s not wired correctly.
- Patio Cover: Janet should be careful attaching a patio cover to her house. An attractive extending awning would be less expensive and easier to install and maintain.
- Grout: Rust in the water has discolored the black grout in Vince’s shower. He can either replace the grout or use a grout stain to restore it.
- Countertops: Is there any way to smooth down a leather look countertop? We don’t know of a way that Ann can do it, but there are options for refinishing laminate surfaces.
- Basement Walls: The DRYLOK paint is peeling off of Bob’s cinderblock basement walls. He’ll need to think about other options for resurfacing them because the paint will be too hard to remove.
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:
This week, we’ll explain how to clean and restore a worn and stained driveway, help you winter-proof your home with a comprehensive checklist, and give advice on burglar-proofing your garage just in time for the holiday travel season. Tune in for these and other smart tips to protect and improve your home with answers to callers’ questions!
- Prepping for Winter: Chill out and avoid winter woes with a winterization checklist for homeowners.
- Driveway Restoration: Polish your approach by restoring a cracked or stained driveway.
- Garage Security: Secure the weakest link by burglar-proofing your garage doors.
Q & A:
- Smoke Problems: Lingering smoke is making the paint bubble and the house smell. JJ gets tips on how to clean, seal, prime, and paint smoky surfaces.
- Remodeling: Wendy is buying a property that used to be a golf clubhouse. We discuss what to know about a commercial versus a residential property.
- Siding Stains: Patricia’s mobile home siding is stained from gutter runoff. She can try using a stronger cleaner, but the stain may actually be corrosion.
- Insulation: Should Robert remove and replace old insulation that’s gotten compressed? He can either replace it or just add more insulation on top of it, which is easier to do.
- Windows: Deane’s steel-framed commercial windows are screwed into the exterior brick. They’re hard to replace, so we suggest hiring a professional to measure and install new windows.
- Second Bathroom: Should Greg add a second bathroom or turn an outside storage unit into living space? We explain why a bathroom addition would provide better ROI.
- Toilet Water: Darren gets advice on converting his toilet to rain barrel water, including the water pressure he needs and getting an efficient toilet that uses less water.
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 today to discover ways to keep your renovation costs in check, tips for heating your garage so it’s usable year-round, and must-know steps for winterizing your sprinkler system to avoid freezing mishaps. Tune in for expert advice on making your home winter-ready and functional on any budget!
- Renovation Budget: Before your blueprints bust the budget, learn how to manage home renovation costs.
- Garage Heating: Warm up your workspace with garage heating hacks.
- Sprinkler Systems: Follow this chill-proof checklist for winterizing your sprinkler system.
Q & A:
- Roofing Repairs: Terry finds out that her roofers were right when they replaced the flashing to fix her leaky chimney.
- Deck Stain: The stain on Ted’s hardwood deck just won’t dry! This happens sometimes with new stain products, so he should wait some more before trying to remove it and reapply a different deck stain.
- Glue Removal: Sylvia is stuck with old carpet glue! She should use a citrus adhesive remover to soften the glue, then add a new layer of plywood before installing hardwood flooring over that.
- Soundproofing: How can Ian soundproof the recording studio he’s building? We recommend adding a layer of sound-resistant drywall and sealing any outlets and openings.
- Generator: Can you use a power generator in an apartment? It’s not very convenient, since Linda would have to use a portable generator and run extension cords outdoors.
- Damp Basement: Mike wonders if a dehumidifier would dry up his damp basement. He needs to solve the source first by improving the grading and drainage outside his home.
- Concrete Repair: Leah’s concrete porch keeps cracking and is unlevel. We discuss the specific products she needs to adhere to the concrete base and make repairs.
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:
In today’s show, we’ll walk you through pro tips for painting your home’s exterior, a quick solution for deck-building without digging concrete footings, and attic insulation advice for a more energy-efficient home. Tune in for these and other expert insights to make your next home improvement project a breeze!
- Exterior Painting: Prep like a pro when planning your next exterior painting project.
- Building a Deck: An easy pedestal support system cuts the hassle of digging deck footings.
- Attic Insulation: How to know if you have enough attic insulation to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.
Q & A:
- Kitchen Sink: Jim wants to insulate his kitchen sink to keep the water warm. We’ve got some ideas on how he can create a way to do it.
- Worn Flooring: Dorothy’s engineered flooring is worn in spots. It’s not designed to be refinished, so she’ll need to replace it or install new flooring over it.
- Insulation: Joe’s new home has spray foam insulation in the attic. We explain why he doesn’t have to worry about ventilating the attic.
- Heat Pump: How often does Ruth’s electric heat pump need to be serviced? We recommend servicing it once a year, and she should consider a heat pump with new technology for colder climates.
- Plumbing Leak: Stan’s got a ceiling leak from defective pipes. If the leak continues, he needs to open the ceiling to repair or replace the plumbing.
- Concrete Floor: Can Nadine cover an old wood floor with a skim level of concrete? It’s a shame to cover the wood, but a mud floor or laminate flooring are two options.
- Water Temperature: Brrrrr! The shower water gets cold when the toilet flushes. Brad should install a pressure balance valve to regulate the mix of hot and cold water.
- Garage Renovation: Esther wants to convert a long, skinny garage by switching the doors to the long wall. It’s a big job that requires structural changes to the load-bearing wall.
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:
In today’s show, we’ve got you covered with pro tips on choosing the best contractor, updates on the latest smoke alarm standards, and a step-by-step guide to hassle-free closet organization. Listen in for all the tips, tricks, and tools to bring your home improvement goals to life!
- Smoke Detectors: Sound the alarm and protect your home with safer smoke detectors.
- Contractors: Nail it the first time by hiring the right professional for your home improvement project.
- Closet Space: Less mess means less stress with closet organization that works.
Q & A:
- Porch Surface: The stain is peeling on Linda’s porch. We recommend removing the loose paint and applying a Daich Coatings product that provides a beautiful, durable finish.
- Door Removal: We’ve got tips for Brian on how to remove and replace a door without becoming unhinged.
- Damaged Siding: Ivy looks attractive, but it damaged the cedar siding on Lauren’s home. She learns how to restore and repair the damage, plus what to install if she wants to replace the cedar siding.
- Hard Water: What kind of conditioning system should be used for hard water? Salt-free is one option, but we advise Brian to use a traditional salt system for a whole home.
- Mosquitoes and Fencing: We answer Inuwan’s questions about getting rid of mosquitoes near her cypress trees and fencing options to enclose her garden.
- Foggy Windows: Sarah’s sliding glass doors keep fogging up. It’s a common problem caused by a failed thermal seal, but it’s easier to replace the doors instead of repairing them.
- Soundproofing: How can Tony muffle the noise from an upstairs neighbor? He’d need to have his neighbor install a sound-resistant underlayment or rugs, or use soft materials to absorb the sound in his own apartment.
- Plumbing Vent: Kate’s kitchen plumbing vent is covered and welded across the top. The installer probably forgot to uncover it, but she can leave it alone if it’s not causing issues.
- Permits: When do you need permits for a home project? In general, they’re needed for replacements or improvements and not for repairs, but Tyler should ask the local building department.
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:
In this episode, get tips for a warmer, healthier home by spotting and stopping mold, using a spray foam product to seal drafts and save on heating, and choosing the right window coverings to keep cozy. Got questions? We’ve got all your home improvement answers!
- Window Coverings: Stay toasty with the right window coverings for winter warmth.
- Mold Prevention: Fight the fungus with 10 tips for spotting and stopping mold in your home.
- Sealing Drafts: Seal drafts and cut heating bills with an easy and effective DIY spray foam product.
Q & A:
- Flower Bed: Michelle wonders if her flower bed will affect her foundation. She should slope the grade away from the house and avoid edging that will impede drainage.
- Plumbing: After turning the water back on, Doug has lots of sediment in the plumbing. He should remove and clean out the faucet aerators, then empty and wipe out the toilet tank.
- Concrete Repair: Susan’s concrete curb is cracking and sloping down. She has options for products to easily fix the concrete, unless it’s settling and needs to be replaced.
- HVAC Options: Should James replace the baseboard heat with an electric furnace? We recommend installing a natural gas furnace that will be less expensive to run.
- Painting Brick: Cathy wants to brighten a dark corner by painting the brick fireplace and wall. Some better options would be using mirrors or different kinds of lighting.
- Deck Stain: Can you apply solid stain over semi-transparent stain on a deck? Justin should clean the surface well and let it dry before applying the solid stain right over it.
- Flooring Repair: Lynette’s floor is worn and soft in some areas from wood rot and mold. She needs a home inspector to determine the cause and the best solution.
- Floor Gap: After installing new luxury vinyl plank flooring, Mike has a gap under the door casing. He can add architectural plinth blocks to cover the space.
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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:
Today, as temperatures cool, learn the importance of servicing your heating system and having your chimney cleaned. You’ll also hear an easy way to stop leaky toilet flushes, plus lots of expert advice for DIY homeowners just like you to get projects done the right way!
- Chimney Cleaning: Soot happens, but cleaning your chimney will keep your home safe and smoke-free.
- Heating System: Avoid winter woes by having your heating system professionally serviced.
- Leaky Toilets: Flush out the problem with this innovative fix for a leaky toilet flush valve.
Q & A:
- Soundproofing: Noisy neighbors can be heard through a duplex wall. Donna can muffle the sound by adding a second layer of drywall or a noise-proofing compound.
- Pool Water: Mac’s pool is green when he uncovers it each spring. Leaving the filter running while it’s covered may strain the equipment, so he should use chemicals to shock the water.
- Concrete Repair: Seeping water has cracked a corner of Audrey’s concrete porch. It’s a common problem that’s easily fixed with products that will adhere to the old cement.
- Fencing: How should Sam treat the cedar fence posts he’s installing? He should tamp down gravel stone around the posts to allow drainage instead of pouring cement, which will hold moisture.
- Windows: Natalie’s old vinyl windows won’t stay up. The springs in the window jams have broken down and are hard to fix, so it may be time to replace the windows.
- Basement Water: Water came into the basement after a big storm. Scott gets tips for improving the outside drainage first, then addressing the grading and retaining wall.
- Electrical Wiring: Sandra’s very old house has knob and tubing wiring in some areas. It’s very dangerous and should be deactivated and updated as soon as possible.
- Bathroom Vanity: How can Nick attach a marble bathroom vanity top to the cabinet base? After doing a dry fit for plumbing, he should apply adhesive to the top edge of the base and caulk against the wall.
- Backsplash: Audrey is curious about a product used for backsplashes. It’s a two-sided adhesive material she can stick on the wall first, and then stick tiles to the material.
- Deck Stain: How soon can Randy stain a new pressure-treated lumber deck? We recommend waiting till spring to expose it to the elements and let it dry out.
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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 show, learn how to install gutter guards yourself and avoid costly pro services, hear expert advice on key homeowner knowledge, and get inspired with ideas for an affordable countertop upgrade in just one weekend. Tune in for tips, tricks, and products that make homeownership a breeze!
- Gutter Guards: Installing gutter guards is easy and affordable with step-by-step DIY tips.
- Home Maintenance: Find out 5 essential things to know about home maintenance.
- Marble Countertops: Countertops get a new look in a weekend with a kit that makes marble dreams come true.
Q & A:
- Pests: Fruit flies are invading Lorna’s kitchen. She can seal the drain with tape to see if that’s where they’re coming from and if so, pour oxygenated bleach down the drain.
- Insulation: Should Michael install closed-cell or open-cell spray foam insulation? Spray foam is a great choice, and closed-cell works better in a moist environment.
- Flooring: What kind of flooring is best for a beach house? Loretta’s options include attractive and durable engineered hardwood, laminate, and vinyl plank.
- Siding: Wade can’t find replacements that match his siding damaged in a hailstorm. A public adjuster will make sure the insurance company completely replaces all the siding.
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:
Today, discover how to protect your pipes during the busy holiday season, get expert advice on choosing the perfect paint sheen for your project, and learn how to quickly upgrade your outdoor space with custom stone features. Plus, we’re answering your questions on all things home improvement, from minor fixes to major makeovers!
- Plumbing: Don’t make these common mistakes during the holiday plumbing disaster season.
- Paint: Besides picking the perfect paint color, you need to choose the right sheen that shines.
- Stone Features: Customize your outdoor space with easy DIY building block kits.
Q & A:
- Lighting: Donna can’t get the lights over her kitchen island to hang straight. She’ll need to readjust the rods that go into the junction box in the ceiling.
- Safe Installation: Richard wants to install a safe in the concrete foundation floor. Bolting the safe to the concrete instead avoids the risk of any electrical or plumbing damage.
- Vent Fan: There is no vent fan in the bathroom, mold on the ceiling, and the window is painted shut. Diane gets advice on running a duct through the wall and installing a humidistat.
- HVAC: Robert has electric baseboard heat and good insulation, but high energy bills. Installing a heat pump would be challenging but less expensive to run.
- Roof Moss: What size copper flashing would prevent moss on a roof? Sunlight is the best mildewcide, but Sue could use 8” copper flashing on each side of the roof ridge.
- Insulation: What is the best way to insulate a new house? Chandler can install spray foam insulation in the entire attic without any risk of shortening the roof shingle life.
- Window Repair: Should rotted window sills be repaired or replaced? Kaitlyn can fill the rotted areas with wood epoxy, but replacing exterior sills is not that hard to do.
- Electrical: Russ has an LED light fixture that flickers when the hot water comes on. The water heater is pulling electricity from the system and making the light voltage drop.
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:
Today, we dive into hidden storm damage that may threaten your home and share eight reasons why keeping your gutters clean is crucial. For weekend warriors, we’ve got quick home improvement projects you can complete in a couple of days. Plus, hear expert answers to callers’ DIY dilemmas.
- Storm Damage: After the skies clear, get tips for finding storm damage to your home, both visible and hidden.
- Gutter Cleaning: Learn 8 essential reasons to put gutter cleaning on your to-do list.
- Weekend Projects: Spruce up your space with quick DIY projects that can be done in a weekend.
Q & A:
- Concrete: Peggy’s concrete slab porch is contacting the vinyl siding. She should remove the bottom siding and install rubberized flashing.
- Attic Ventilation: Dale wants to ensure adequate ventilation in the attic. He has ridge vents but needs soffit vents to make the attic the same as the outside temperature.
- Refinishing Door: Mary’s walnut front doors are peeling from the sun. It will take some time to strip off the finish, sand the doors, add stain, and apply a marine varnish for UV protection.
- Saving Electricity: How can you save on high electric bills? Dane gets tips about LED lighting, types of heating, smart thermostats, and installing drapes and blinds.
- Cinderblock Walls: Is there a way to make cinderblock walls more attractive? It’s not a DIY project, but Kay can have the wall surface covered with a layer of plaster.-
- Home Inspection: Scott bought a rental property that’s in bad shape. He needs to hire a home inspector to create a punch list of repairs.
- Brick Stains: There are mineral deposit stains on Louise’s brick mailbox. She can clean the surface with a vinegar and water solution, then apply a masonry sealant.
- Painted Brick: Arthur is concerned about damaging an old brick surface while stripping off paint. He should proceed carefully in an inconspicuous area.
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:
On today’s show, we’re drying out damp basements with solutions for moisture problems. We’ll also share advice on choosing the best pressure washer. Plus, find out how to get all your DIY supplies in one place and save big! We’ll also answer calls on DIY projects, both big and small, so listen in!
- Wet Basements: Manage moisture with 3 key strategies to prevent wet basements before they start.
- Pressure Washers: Spray smart with tips for buying the best pressure washer.
- DIY Shopping: Nail your next project with this one-stop source for all your DIY supplies.
Q & A:
- Outdoor Furniture: The paint on Revella’s outdoor furniture is chipping and fading. We recommend cleaning with a wire brush, sanding the surface, and applying a quality outdoor paint.
- Backup Heat: What is the safest source of heat if the power goes out? Mike should get a standby generator that can power the whole house or a portion of it.
- Bathroom Grout: Does Janiese need to seal epoxy grout around the bathroom tiles? Only sand grout needs to be sealed, but she can use vinegar to remove mineral stains.
- Cement Floor: Dave has a damaged cement floor that was poured over plywood. We think it’s actually fire-retardant GypCrete and explain how to remove and repair it.
- Wood Porch: Stephen gets advice on applying solid color stain to seal the surface of his pine wood porch and make it more attractive.
- Concrete Slab: Rain is damaging the surface of a concrete slab. It’s not structural to the foundation and Tim can just seal the cracks.
- Adhesive Removal: Michelle pulled up the vinyl flooring but the glue is still stuck to the slab underneath. If it’s smooth and well-adhered, she can put new tile right on top of it.
- Basement Remodel: John wants to convert a basement sauna to a shower. We discuss lots of options for what materials to use and how to install them.
- Outdoor A/C Unit: How should Linda shut down her outdoor air conditioning unit for winter? She needs to turn off the power and cover the top, not the sides, to avoid condensation and corrosion.
- Shower Pan: Brett’s shower pan is starting to crack. We’ve got tips for patching the surface without having to rip out the pan and the tile around it.
- Door Drafts: Weatherstripping isn’t stopping drafts around Wendy’s doors. If the doors are out of alignment, she’ll need to adjust them to seal the gaps.
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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