Episodit
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SHOW NOTES:
Should you DIY or hire a pro? In this show, we’ll guide you through the decision-making process. Plus, with winter on the way, we’ve got top tips for sealing those sneaky drafts. And if you’re looking to add a granite finish to your floors or walls, we’ll show you how. Got a home reno or décor question? Listen in for expert advice!
- Hiring a Pro: Should you DIY or hire a professional for your home improvement project? How to decide.
- Drafts: Stop the breeze and save on energy bills by tracking down and sealing off chilly drafts.
- Granite: This durable granite coating gives the beauty and strength of natural stone to any surface.
Q & A:
- Odors: When the attic fan turns on, why does the house smell like sewage? Shelby needs to add ventilation to the attic to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide being pulled through the house.
- Cleaning Cement: Will scrubbing with a vinegar solution clean sidewalk stains? Julian may need to use a pressure washer and more effective cleaning products.
- Driveway Repair: Susan’s asphalt driveway was resurfaced, but was not pitched correctly and water is pooling into the house. She should install a curtain drain to divert the runoff.
- Pole Barn: Larry wonders about the durability of the posts of his old pole barn garage. If they’re ground contact pressure-treated wood and aren’t shifting, they should last just fine.
- Water Heater: Nancy wastes water waiting for it to get hot due to the distance between the water heater and the faucet. She has options, but they may not offer a good ROI.
- Staining Siding: The solid stain on Paul’s clapboard siding is bubbling up. He’ll need to remove the stain in that area and start over with an oil-based primer before re-staining.
- Plumbing Odor: Anthony noticed a sewer smell after getting a new washer and dryer. We’ve got tips for extending the trap so it holds more water to prevent bio-gases.
- Squeaky Floor: The floor under Pam’s carpeting is squeaking, but she learns an easy trick of the trade to find the floor joists and how to use the right nails to stop the squeak.
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:
- Hot Water: Skip the wait and get hot water on demand with a hot water recirculating pump.
- Insulation: New innovations in insulation lower energy costs while keeping your home comfortable all year long.
- Flooring: Get the look of wood in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements with flooring engineered for damp locations.
Q & A:
- Insulation: Can Kathy prevent trapped moisture in the attic by adding insulation? What she really needs is more ventilation unless she decides to use spray foam insulation.
- Metal Roof: Dan’s porch tin roof gets very hot in summer. Applying a radiant coating designed for metal roofs will reflect the sun’s UV rays and reduce the heat.
- Contractor Dispute: A bad contractor trashed Beth’s home and walked off the job with all the materials. We recommend consulting an attorney and filing criminal charges for theft.
- Exterior Stairs: Matt wants to build DIY landscaping stairs. It’s a big project, and he gets tips for using concrete masonry units, pressure-treated wood, and more.
- Warranties: What kind of maintenance should be done on a new house? Diane can find a great checklist of what to do and should also check her new homebuyer warranties to see what’s covered.
- Brick Surface: Greg would like to install a brick veneer on his glazed block building. It can be done, but he should research what type of brick will adhere to that surface.
- Moisture: Moisture is bowing the hardwood floor in the room over the crawlspace. Jonathan gets advice on how to reduce the humidity inside the crawlspace.
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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Puuttuva jakso?
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SHOW NOTES:
Today, we discuss patio heaters to help you extend your outdoor season and address whether squeaky floors are a sign of a bigger issue, along with tips for fixing them. We also share energy-saving strategies for your water heater to cut down energy bills. Listen as we answer these and other home improvement questions!
- Squeaky Floors: Follow these steps to find solutions for squeaky floors.
- Patio Heaters: Extend your outdoor living season with patio heater options for year-round comfort.
- Water Heaters: Soak up the savings with these water heater efficiency tips.
Q & A:
- Cleaning Cabinets: Dan is trying to clean the grease off cabinets above the stove and microwave. We’ve got tips on how to use Murphy’s Oil Soap to clean the cabinets.
- Water Quality: Linda sees black particles in the water from her toilet and sink. We suggest cleaning the aerators on the faucet and installing a whole-house water filter.
- Pine Flooring: Daniel is installing pine flooring on his porch. We agree with his idea of staining the planks beforehand and offer tips on what fasteners to use.
- Brick Repair: One corner of the brick foundation is crumbling. Katherine gets advice on using products to repair the brick and mortar and matching the color of the surface.
- Driveway Runoff: Rain runoff on the sides of Randy’s driveway is exposing PVC pipe. We recommend digging out the dirt and filling the area with gravel that won’t wash away.
- Wasps: Gail is having a problem with wasps on the side of her house. Sticky wasp traps can be very effective, along with spraying strong scents that will repel the wasps.
- HVAC: Is it a good idea to replace an oil furnace with a heat pump? It can be expensive to replace the furnace and remove the oil tank, but improved heat pump technology has become less expensive and more efficient to use.
- Snow on Roof: Will putting a tarp over a log cabin roof help prevent snow buildup? It’s not that effective unless the snow is dry and light, and LaDonna will still need to use a roof rake.
- Central Vacuum: Water is appearing inside the central vacuum system pipes. Sean needs to insulate the pipes completely to prevent condensation from forming.
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 weigh the pros and cons of rooftop solar panels and share a simple recipe for homemade spray dish soap. Then, transform your backyard with a DIY fire pit that’s made easy with Pavestone building blocks. Plus, get expert answers to more home improvement questions for your next project!
- Solar Panels: Sunny savings or sunken costs? Learn the truth about the ROI of rooftop solar panels.
- Natural Cleaner: Clean up the savings with a natural dish soap recipe for bubbles on a budget.
- DIY Fire Pit: Rock your yard with a DIY fire pit using simple stone building blocks.
Q & A:
- Concrete Slab: Should Lee reinforce a poured concrete slab with rebar? It can’t hurt, but may not be needed if the soil base is prepped right with a mechanical tamper.
- Cement Floor: Linda wants to refinish a cement floor in an industrial area. She’ll need to scrape off any existing paint and then apply epoxy paint to seal the surface.
- HVAC: The second floor is always either too hot or too cold. Most heat loss is caused by leaky ducts, so David should have a sealant applied to make the HVAC system more efficient.
- Tree Roots: Big tree roots are in the way of a new deck. Nancy will need a stump grinder to remove the roots and can use fewer points of contact for the deck foundation.
- Fireplace or Stove: Matt wants to replace an ugly hearth fireplace with a wood stove. We recommend getting some structural advice to avoid affecting the chimney integrity.
- Linoleum Flooring: Mindy’s old linoleum floor is peeling. She should pull up the linoleum and any other layers under it before installing a new floor.
- Foundation Leak: Water is pooling between the foundation and a retaining wall, then seeping into the basement. Richard should intercept the runoff with a curtain drain.
- Insulation: Steve is curious about radiant barrier insulation, which is designed to reflect UV rays. We explain concerns about overheating and shortening the life of his roof.
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 reveal simple tricks to keep pesky crickets out of your house and how to decide if a new furnace is worth the investment. We also introduce an innovative product that makes fixing leaky toilets even easier, and answer home improvement questions to make your other DIY projects easier, too!
- Crickets: Stop the chirp with these tips for cricket control inside and outside your home.
- Heating Systems: Turn up the heat on savings with the right upgrade to your heating system.
- Leaky Toilet: An innovative product will have you flushed with success when it comes to repairing leaky toilet valves.
Q & A:
- Wax Stains: Sandy spilled hot wax on the carpet and furniture, but learns a neat hack for using a hot iron and a brown paper bag to remove the wax stain.
- Wall Tile: Does John need to replace the greenboard before retiling the bathroom walls? We recommend installing cement board instead, which will last indefinitely.
- Security: Colin wants a secure vault door for the reinforced cinderblock room he’s building. We suggest installing a heavy-duty commercial steel door with deadbolts.
- Sink Odor: There’s a bad smell coming from just one sink in Terry’s house. She gets tips on using oxygenated bleach and a bottle brush to clean bio-gases from the drain.
- HVAC System: Bob’s original hydro-air heating system is working fine, but there’s some condensation on the pump. That’s not unusual and he should keep having it serviced so it can last even longer.
- Lead Removal: How should Margaret remove ceramic tiles that contain lead? She would need an EPA-certified professional, or else she can recoat the tile with an epoxy finish to seal the surface.
- Plumbing: The shower water temperature constantly needs readjusting. Pat should install a pressure balance valve to regulate the imbalance between hot and cold water.
- Attic Insulation: Abraham has questions about ventilating a hot attic that has spray foam insulation and the effect on his air conditioning. He should check to see if enough insulation was installed.
- Bathtub Finish: The bathtub finish is wearing off and stained. Peggy won’t be able to touch up just those areas, but she could use a product to refinish the entire surface.
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, discover 10 low-dust home improvement projects, learn how to easily fix textured walls or ceilings, and find out how to eliminate sink odors with a simple hack. Plus, listen in as we offer expert answers to other home improvement questions from DIY callers!
- Home Renovation: Get ideas for 10 wreck-less home renovations that don’t require demolition.
- Textured Surfaces: Repair textured walls and ceilings easily and without the mess.
- Sink Odors: Learn how to send stinky sink odors down the drain with this simple solution.
Q & A:
- Refinishing Furniture: Sherry learns how to give an old wood dresser a new look by stripping off the paint and staining the surface.
- Wood Flooring: What should Andrew use to refinish his oak floor after sanding it? We recommend applying three coats of a clear oil-based polyurethane to restore the shine.
- Building a Deck: Cheryl wants to build a deck over a concrete slab, but that’s not a good foundation. She should break up the concrete and install proper footings.
- Insulation: The wall on the west side of Mike’s house gets very warm. We suggest installing an awning to deflect the sun or adding foam insulation and a layer of drywall.
- Fence Materials: What is the best material for building a fence in a moist area? Metal posts should be fine, but Hope can also use wood posts with stones instead of concrete footings.
- Woodchucks: Woodchucks are digging holes all over Al’s property. We have tips on luring them with fruit in a humane trap and then releasing them far away.
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, get advice on selecting the perfect paint colors, when to call in the pros for hardwood floor refinishing, and how to detox your mattress for a healthier sleep. Plus, we’re here to answer home improvement questions with helpful tips to help you tackle your projects like a pro!
- Mattress Care: Get tips on detoxing your mattress to avoid sleeping on a bed of bacteria.
- Paint Colors: Color your world by picking the right paint color for every project.
- Hardwood Floors: Know when to step aside and let a professional refinish your hardwood floors.
Q & A:
- Toilet Leak: Fred’s toilet won’t stop leaking, even after many attempts to fix it. The gasket may not have been replaced correctly, so we suggest using silicone to seal each connection.
- Painting Brick: Mary wants to paint her brick fireplace, but she may want to think twice and decorate around the brick instead, because painting brick can be a challenge.
- Replacing Grout: The grout is crumbling in Steve’s bluestone stoop. He gets step-by-step advice for removing the old grout and replacing it with new mortar.
- Cedar Siding: Does Lindsey need to replace the house wrap under her cedar siding? It’s not necessary, and we offer tips on an easier way to clean the cedar shingles.
- Baseboard Heating: How many feet of baseboard do you need to heat a room? Paul should use calculation programs or apps to determine the right size and how much heat his home needs.
- Wood Paneling: How can Rebecca give a new look to her wood paneling? Her best options are to prime and paint the paneling or cover it with a layer of drywall.
- Odors: Jim can’t get rid of the bad odor in his new home. Unless it’s a dead rodent, it’s probably bio-gases from bacteria that he needs to clean from the traps of his sinks and drains.
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 offer tips for a successful home addition, reveal a surprisingly easy method to build stone features like fire pits and garden beds, and discuss the benefits of upgrading your electric panel. Plus, we’ve got expert advice for callers with home improvement questions you’ll want to hear!
- Electrical System: Find out 5 shocking reasons to stay current with an electrical panel upgrade.
- Outdoor Masonry Ideas: Building outdoor features is as easy as stacking blocks with this innovative DIY system.
- Home Additions: These are 3 things to consider when planning the right home addition.
Q & A:
- Pest Control: Cody is looking for an affordable way to control scorpions and bugs. Natural products like boric acid, cedar oil, and lavender plants are possible options.
- Roof and Attic Fan: Should Mary replace the attic fan with a new roof? We recommend using a ridge vent instead of an attic fan, but she can still use a whole-house fan.
- Popping Nails: Nails keep popping through the sheetrock. Bob should use screws instead, or overlap the head of the original nail with a second one to hold it in.
- Wildlife: Chipmunks are getting inside Linda’s steel building. We suggest adding siding material to cover any gaps and using spray foam insulation to fill them.
- Outdoor Septic: Peter’s soil stack vent freezes solid in winter. He should insulate the pipe up to the point where it exits the roof.
- Ceiling Mold: A roof leak left a mold stain on Wendy’s ceiling. She can clean it with a bleach solution, then use a good primer before repainting the ceiling.
- Water Heater: Harry is curious about tankless water heaters, but he should look at heat pump water heaters instead since he has an electrical 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:
Today, we’ll give you four reasons to reconsider painting your exposed brick, and if you’re buying a new house, we reveal which builder upgrades are worth the investment and which ones you should DIY. Also, get advice on illuminating dark corners of your home. Plus, listen in for answers to home improvement questions for all kinds of DIY projects!
- Painting Brick: Before painting your exposed brick, find out 4 solid reasons why you shouldn’t.
- Home Upgrades: When building a new home, find out which upgrades make sense and when to DIY.
- Lighting: Expert tips shed light on how to brighten a home for style and safety.
Q & A:
- Light Switch: After installing new LED bulbs, Pammy’s light fixture doesn’t work at all. The problem is with her light switch, not the bulb.
- Old Cabinets: What is the best way to strip and refinish old kitchen cabinets? Bob gets step-by-step instructions on how to clean, strip, and stain wood cabinets.
- Damaged Floor: Lisa is feeling soft sunken spots under her carpet. She should pull back the carpet to check for structural damage and see if the padding is breaking down.
- Window Leak: Adam has a leak in the bay window under a skylight. We suggest ways to divert water running down the roof above the skylight and around the window.
- Discolored Brick Wall: A brick retaining wall is turning white from ground moisture that’s pulling up, evaporating, and leaving mineral deposits. Eunice can clean the efflorescence easily with white vinegar.
- Epoxy Paint: Judy tried to apply epoxy paint to the basement floor but it kept coming up. She should contact the manufacturer to see if it’s an unusual chemical reaction.
- Architects: Who should Linda consult about adding a bathroom and hobby room to an old farmhouse? We recommend consulting with a few architects to maintain the building’s style and structural integrity.
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 lower cooling costs and protect furnishings from UV damage with window films, and get inspired with DIY ideas for upgrading your home’s curb appeal. Plus, we’ll share how to customize outdoor features with creative building blocks. Listen in for all this and answers to more home improvement questions from callers!
- Window Films: Window films are an effective defense against heat, glare, and UV damage inside your home.
- Home Exteriors: Add beauty and value to your home exterior with DIY upgrades to add curb appeal.
- RumbleStone Building Blocks: DIY building blocks make it easy to create custom outdoor features.
Q & A:
- Hanging Shelves: Wall shelves are a great DIY project to save space! Ellie learns about choosing the right shelf size, style, and anchoring options.
- Vintage Walls: James discovered beautiful old solid chestnut boards when the wallpaper was removed. It’s a rare find that can be preserved and matched to the home décor.
- Cracked Floor Tiles: Can hairline cracks in ceramic floor tiles be repaired? Unfortunately not, but Valerie gets creative ideas for removing and replacing the tiles.
- Patio Roof and Floor: We have answers to Bob’s questions about extending a roof over an enclosed deck and installing tile flooring on the patio.
- Bathtub Liner: Peg wonders about refinishing an outdated fiberglass bathtub surround. Paint and reglazing aren’t the best options, so it may be better to tear it out and start over.
- Sealing a Deck: What is the best way to prep and seal a wood deck? Tom should clean it thoroughly, remove any loose finish, and apply a solid stain to seal and protect 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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SHOW NOTES:
Today, explore clever storage solutions in overlooked areas of your home, learn how to build deck steps the right way to ensure safety and durability, and get the scoop on why tackling large paint projects is simpler than you might think. Plus, listen in as we answer more home improvement questions from DIYers just like you!
- Deck Steps: Learn the ups and downs of building safe and solid steps for your deck.
- Storage: Find hidden storage areas in your home by knowing where to look.
- Paint Projects: Big paint projects are made easier with a high-efficiency paint sprayer.
Q & A:
- Wet Foundation: Lynn has water gushing around the pipe in her basement wall. She should use silicone to seal gaps around the pipe inside and outside, then improve the outdoor drainage in that area.
- Vent Fan Draft: Cold wind blows in through the vent fan over David’s range. He should check the gasket and the door springs, or try surrounding the outside port with a frame to block the wind.
- Painting Vinyl: Maureen’s vinyl window frames are faded and chalky, but she can paint them by using vinyl-safe paint colors after prepping the surface.
- Windows and Insulation: A lot of energy is lost through Darryl’s big old single-pane windows. He definitely needs more attic insulation and can either replace the windows or install solar shades to redirect the heat.
- Pavestone Patio: Jean asks how to put pavers over her concrete patio. Using the right product makes it easy to do by gluing down the pavers and sweeping sand into the joints.
- Baseboard Covers: Steve gets tips on removing and refinishing his worn baseboard heating covers, and why it’s a better option than replacing them.
- HVAC Mold: Betty is finding mold in all different places. If it’s really mold and not condensation, she should have the HVAC system inspected to see if it’s in the ducts.
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 curb appeal tips to boost your home’s value and sell it faster. Then, learn a common pitfall with roof-mounted solar systems and how to avoid it. Finally, find out clever ways to make your kitchen countertops more functional and efficient. Plus, hear answers to callers’ questions to make DIY home improvement projects simple and successful!
- Curb Appeal: Boosting curb appeal can seal the deal when selling your home.
- Solar Systems: Find out why metal roofs are a great option for roof-mounted solar systems.
- Kitchen Counters: Work smarter by making your kitchen counters more functional.
Q & A:
- Floor Support: Laura needs more support under her old kitchen floor for heavy appliances. Installing a girder beam will add strength and prevent floor bounce.
- Natural Gas: Abram wants to run a gas line for his dryer. He’ll need a plumber to tap into the existing gas line to ensure it’s done safely.
- Shower Pan: A tub converted to a handicap-accessible shower needs extra support. Mel learns how to mix cement under the fiberglass shower pan to provide a solid base.
- Foundation: To add a garage or carport to a house on a slope, Andrew should have an architect spec out how to excavate around the supporting wall and run steel beams while the work is being done.
- Vinyl Siding: Should Beverly use screws or nails to install vinyl siding? We explain why it’s important to use nails and install them properly to allow for expansion of the siding.
- Concrete Repair: Joe wants to repair a painted concrete surface. We suggest cleaning it well, then using a crack repair product and adding a layer of epoxy paint.
- Freon Leak: Freon keeps leaking from Leah’s HVAC unit. She needs to focus on finding and fixing the leak, or else changing to a different refrigerant.
- Plumbing Odor: What is causing the sewer odor in Ted’s bathroom? He should check to see if the traps are properly installed and vented, and use oxygenated bleach to eliminate bio-gases in the drain.
- Smoke Odors: The previous homeowner left stinky cigarette smoke odors behind. Lois must use an oil-based primer on the walls and subfloors to seal the surfaces before painting them.
- Heated Flooring: What kind of flooring can you install over a heated concrete floor? We recommend that Russ check manufacturers’ specifications for flooring products designed for heat.
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 for tips on transforming your yard into a dog-friendly paradise and choosing the perfect BBQ grill as summer sales heat up. We’ll also discuss an easy-to-clean Epoxy Floor Coating Kit for your concrete floors and share expert home improvement advice with other DIY callers just like you!
- Pet-Friendly Spaces: Get some fetching ideas on how to design a dog-friendly yard.
- BBQ Grills: Check these hot tips on what to look for when buying a new BBQ grill.
- Epoxy Floors: Discover the beauty of easy-to-clean epoxy floor finishes.
Q & A:
- Painting Siding: Can you paint vinyl siding? Michael learns specific steps to properly clean, prime, and paint his vinyl siding, plus recommendations for colors and applications.
- Wood Playground: Erin’s wood swingset is cracking and turning black. Pressure-treated wood is not the best option, but she can scrub the surface and use a solid color stain.
- French Drain: Standing rainwater is affecting the walls of Andrew’s home on a hill. He needs to build a French drain to divert water around the house.
- Ceiling Paint: Can Blair use water-based paint over the oil-based paint on her deck ceiling? We recommend priming it first and then using a solid stain or a flat paint.
- Mold Control: Dan gets advice on how to reduce moisture and prevent mold by ventilating and dehumidifying his unheated pole building.
- Floor Moisture: Water is coming up from the concrete slab under the laminate floor. Michelle should check the outside drainage and install a fan with a humidistat.
- Soundproofing: Jerry wants to convert an upstairs bedroom into a movie room and gets tips on adding soundproofing drywall or Green Glue noise-proofing sealant to the ceiling.
- Fascia Board: Martin wants to fix the fascia board that’s separating between her porch ceiling and the overhang. It’s easy to resecure it with screws instead of nails.
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 hear tips on giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look without spending a fortune, learn about innovative air vents that double as design elements, and uncover a fast solution for fixing textured walls and ceilings. And as always, we’re here with answers to your latest home improvement questions to help get your DIY projects done!
- Kitchen Cabinets: Cook up a new look for your kitchen cabinets with these budget-friendly options.
- Air Vents: Function meets fashion when HVAC air vents become beautiful design features.
- Textured Surfaces: Get a smooth solution for rough repairs of textured walls and ceilings with this DIY product.
Q & A:
- Linoleum Flooring: What kind of kitchen flooring can be used over old sheet linoleum? Patrilla has lots of options, including engineered vinyl plank and laminate flooring.
- Concrete Repair: Robert gets how-to advice on how to remove and repair a spacer that washed away on his concrete walkway.
- Cedar Siding: Cindy’s cedar shingle siding was stained but is now fading. Priming the siding and applying a new coat of solid color stain will last longer than paint.
- Porch Columns: Mike wants to change the look of the tall columns on his porch but can’t find replacements. He should consult an architect for a new design that will still offer structural support.
- Carpenter Ants: A big tree infested with carpenter ants was taken down close to Anna’s house. We reassure her that they’re not likely to start coming into her home.
- Water Odor: There’s a rotten egg smell in Dave’s house and the bathroom fixtures are all rusty. He should have the well water tested and check the water heater anode rod.
- Kitchen Sink: Kathy is used to having a double sink in the kitchen, but learns about the advantages of having a single bowl sink that provides more room for washing large items.
- Insulation: Is it necessary to have a vapor barrier for a second-story drop ceiling with insulation above it? We agree it’s not something Norm 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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SHOW NOTES:
On today’s show, we dispel common home improvement myths, provide easy fixes for wall imperfections, and discuss ways to cut down your energy bills with utility company programs. Are you struggling to keep up with your home’s demands? We’ve got your back, so tune in to hear expert help and advice!
- Home Improvement Advice: Separate fact from fix-tion by debunking these home improvement myths.
- Drywall Repairs: Master the art of making drywall repairs the right way with these easy steps.
- Energy Savings: Save money and energy with programs to help reduce your utility bills.
Q & A:
- HVAC Vents: Leroy notices that one of the air conditioning vents blows less air. He should check for a blockage or partially closed damper inside the duct.
- Concrete Patio: Portions of Grace’s concrete patio are raised and discolored. We suggest replacing the mortar around loose bricks and refinishing the concrete surface.
- Deck Pool: James has questions about cutting a hole in the deck to insert an inflated pool on a sloped yard. There are lots of reasons why it would not be a good idea.
- Garage Floor: What is the best way to resurface two different areas of a garage floor? Margie can easily apply a durable epoxy floor coating to give it an attractive finish.
- Toilet Plumbing: Kathy’s toilet makes a squealing noise when the washing machine runs! It sounds like a venting problem or a bad fill valve that’s causing a blockage.
- Flooring Adhesive: Vito is installing upcycled plank flooring but it won’t stick. He should clean the subfloor well and use a grooved trowel to apply a flooring adhesive.
- Bathroom Tile: What are good options besides tile for bathroom walls? Janet should look into bathtub surrounds that are smooth, seamless, and come in a variety of colors and styles.
- Smoking Odor: Jeff can’t get rid of the smoke odor from the exposed brick walls. Brick is very absorbent, so he should use a clear oil-based primer to seal the surface.
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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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In this episode, we reveal some renter-friendly kitchen upgrades that won't jeopardize your security deposit. Then, we discuss HVAC filters, guiding you on the best choices for cleaner air. Plus, learn about easy, mortar-free backyard projects to elevate your outdoor space. Listen to all this and more home improvement advice on today’s show!
- Kitchen Makeover: Revamp your rental kitchen without risking your security deposit.
- HVAC Filters: Breathe easier by choosing the best HVAC filters for your home.
- Backyard Projects: Craft custom backyard features with DIY building blocks.
Q & A:
- Cleaning Deck: Joseph’s composite decks have a white film and the color is fading. We suggest a good cleaning to remove algae and applying a solid color deck stain.
- Bathroom Pipes: What size pipes are needed for a shower panel? It’s fine for Norma to keep the same size pipes, but multiple showerheads may reduce the water pressure.
- Ants: Lorraine wants to get rid of ants in her garden and lawn. Precise new insecticides are very effective when they’re brought back to the nest and eliminate the ant colonies.
- Wall Removal: Can Charlie remove a load-bearing wall between his kitchen and dining room? He’ll need a professional to build a temporary support wall and do the project properly.
- Basement Walls: Poor drainage has caused the basement walls to bow in. Rob should hire a structural engineer to inspect the issue and specify how to make the repairs.
- Cement Cracks: Cheryl’s cement porch is cracking along the edges. Repairing the cement is easy and affordable with the right products to patch and adhere to the concrete.
- Light Switches: Pam gets advice on how to install and program an occupancy sensor light in a room with two light switches.
- Well System Plumbing: How to eliminate air pockets in the plumbing? David should check for a problem with the pressure tank that’s getting air in the lines.
- 1960s Home: What should Phyllis look for when buying a home built in the 1960s? It was a good era for home construction, but she should check the appliances and radiant heat for issues.
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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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Today, we’re gearing up for power outages with a plan to keep you powered through summer storms. We’ll also reveal how to safeguard against ticks and explore paint colors that can transform your space and elevate your mood. Join us as we answer these and other home improvement questions for all your DIY dilemmas!
- Paint Tips: Learn how to brighten your mood and your home with the right paint colors.
- Tick Bites: Protect yourself outdoors with tactics to prevent tick bites.
- Power Outages: Navigate your way safely through a power outage with these blackout basics.
Q & A:
- Structural Cracks: Cracks in the foundation and basement are getting bigger and the walls are bending. Dixie must immediately contact a structural engineer to make sure repairs are done correctly.
- Asbestos: Jason’s basement ductwork has crumbling asbestos. He should have the material tested and have any asbestos removed by a professional.
- Door Glass: Should a door with milky glass be repaired or replaced? It’s a cosmetic issue caused when the insulation seal fails, but it would be simpler for Pam to replace the door.
- Deck Stain: Ray wants to seal his wraparound wood deck. We recommend using a solid color deck stain that will be more durable and last longer.
- Water Heater: Eva is concerned about possible damage from an upstairs water heater. We suggest turning off the main water valve when she’s away so she won’t worry, and saving up for a tankless water heater.
- Indoor Pool: How to reduce humidity from an indoor pool? Leslie should isolate the pool room from the rest of the house and use a dehumidifier and mold-resistant materials.
- Drop Ceiling: Kathleen wants a faux tin ceiling in her sunroom. Drop ceilings offer great options as long as they’re attached properly.
- Buckling Floor: Engineered hardwood floor installed on a concrete slab is starting to buckle. It needs to be replaced, but Todd should contact the floor manufacturer.
- Roof Pitch: Charlene wants to replace the shingles on her low-pitch roof. She shouldn’t have asphalt shingles, but a metal roof would be a great investment.
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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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Join us as we uncover tips for navigating the often-confusing process of window shopping. Then, we discuss a versatile portable battery system for both travel and home integration. Finally, learn about micro-irrigation, an efficient watering method that can save your garden. Plus, we’ve got more home improvement answers to inspire your DIY projects!
- Buying Windows: Expert advice makes shopping for replacement windows a transparent process.
- Battery Backup: Stay charged with a portable power backup system to use at home or on the go.
- Micro-Irrigation: Transform your garden with micro-irrigation that’s rooted in efficiency.
Q & A:
- HVAC and Fans: Marie wonders if fans will improve her air conditioning. Ceiling and furnace fans won’t help very much, but we recommend installing a whole-house fan to pull air through the house.
- Pest Control: Daddy longlegs are a problem in Will’s garage. Sticky traps, spraying white vinegar and vanilla extract, cleaning, and vacuuming will control the spiders.
- Jacuzzi Mold: Robin has issues with moldy pipes and a fading finish on her Jacuzzi bathtub. It’s hard to refinish the fixtures, but a bleach solution will sanitize the pipes.
- Fire Pit: Katherine has questions about fire pits. Options include buying a metal model that can last 5 to 8 years or a DIY kit to build a fire pit with bricks or pavers.
- Insulation: What kind of insulation should Albert add to his attic? Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice that expands, seals, is more efficient, and needs no ventilation.
- Ceramic Floor: Sandy can’t get her old ceramic tile floor clean. It sounds like the glaze has worn off, so we recommend installing laminate flooring or a second layer of tile.
- Foundation Cracks: Cracks in the basement floor and seepage through the wall seams have Tom worried. He gets tips on sealing the cracks and improving drainage.
- Oven Cleaning: Gail can’t clean the glass on her self-cleaning electric oven door. It’s a tough area to reach and she’ll need to disassemble the door.
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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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Today, we reveal how to choose a new garage door that boosts both safety and security. Then, we break down the benefits of buying ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and give tips on early detection of roof leaks to prevent costly repairs. Plus, we answer your top home improvement questions to get your DIY projects done right!
- Garage Doors: Protect your home by choosing a safe and secure garage door.
- ENERGY STAR Ratings: Find out why ratings matter when buying appliances that are energy-efficient, reliable, and affordable.
- Roof Leaks: Stop leaks before they happen by knowing what to look for on your roof.
Q & A:
- Patio Deck: Steve’s floating deck is getting uneven and covers a cistern. He gets tips on taking the deck apart, reframing it with better footings, and adding an access panel.
- Ceiling Stains: Pat had the roof leak repaired but wants to cover the ceiling stains. Insurance should cover the cost of priming and painting the whole ceiling.
- Plumbing Pressure: When the shower runs on one floor, the water gets cold on the upper floor. Tammy should check the pipes for corrosion and the water pressure from the street.
- Garage Insulation: Todd’s garage workspace is getting chilly! Adding spray foam insulation and weatherstripping is a great way to seal and warm up the garage.
- Stump Removal: A raised garden bed is surrounded by tree stumps. Courtney gets options for removing the stumps with a chainsaw, with chemicals, by burning, or with a small stump grinder.
- Lighting: When Darrell turns on his kitchen lights, they cause static on his stereo speaker. We don’t have a solution for this odd issue, but we may find answers online.
- Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees keep coming back even after the area was treated. Louise needs a pest control professional with the right tools and pesticides to guarantee success.
- Dryer Vent: Cody noticed that the dryer vent in the attic got disconnected. He must find the gap and direct the vent outside because it’s a fire hazard and could cause moisture in his insulation.
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 as we discuss how to save water outdoors during the scorching summer months and highlight the latest advancements that make heat pumps more efficient and cost-effective. We’ll also cover the benefits of metal roofing during an active storm season. Plus, get expert tips on managing lots more DIY home improvement projects!
- Heat Pumps: New heat pump technology offers energy-efficient heating for any climate.
- Water Saving Tips: Every drop counts when it comes to saving outdoor water on hot summer days.
- Metal Roofs: Weather the storm with a metal roof that will stand up to severe conditions.
Q & A:
- Popcorn Ceiling: Can you clean a popcorn ceiling? Nancy should use a feather duster to get rid of dust and cobwebs, then give the ceiling a fresh coat of paint.
- Solar Panels: John is noticing the production is dropping on his dirty solar panels. He needs to climb up and use a high-pressure hose to clean the pollen off the panels.
- Moles: Moles are tearing up Michelle’s yard! We recommend treating the lawn to get rid of grubs so she can get rid of the moles.
- Landscaping: Alex’s home is located on a steep hill. He gets tips on building a retaining wall with specifications from a landscape engineer.
- Porch Odors: Anna’s unfinished, closed porch has a musty, moldy smell. She needs to pull out any insulation, clean the walls well, and let the space dry and air out completely.
- Electrical Outlet: An electrical outlet died but no breakers were tripped. Steve should have an electrician check the current and find where to repair a failure on the line.
- Woodchucks: Darlene is trying to keep woodchucks in check! She can discourage them by removing all woodpiles, spraying hot pepper or predator urine in their dens, and applying repellent to any plants they eat.
- Tree Roots: Ken is concerned about a tree growing next to the foundation of his home, in an area treated for termites. We recommend carefully cutting away the tree roots.
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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