Episodes
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John recently purchased a Kreg Accu-Cut. This show discusses the amazing product andhow you can use it to create better products for your customers.
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In this episode the Handyman Pros review an article on newinformation on Gen Z shifting away from traditional college education andmoving towards the trades. Some veryinteresting cultural and political points are discussed.
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Episodes manquant?
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Did you know that you could order a home from the Sears andRoebuck catalog? These homes are morecommon than you realize, we are having a discussion.
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In this episode the Handyman Pros give you 10 awesome tipsto help you get your home ready for winter.
Winterizing your home is essential for protecting it fromcold weather and saving on energy costs. Here are some tips for preparing yourhome for winter:
1. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Windows and Doors:Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping, caulking, orfoam sealant to fill any gaps.
Attic andBasement: Insulate cracks in your attic and basement where cold air can enter.
Outlet Insulation:Place insulation pads behind electrical outlets and light switches to preventheat loss.
2. Check and Service Heating Systems
FurnaceMaintenance: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional. Replacethe furnace filter to ensure optimal efficiency.
Chimney Cleaning:If you have a fireplace, clean your chimney to avoid fire hazards and improveheating efficiency.
Thermostat:Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to better control yourhome's temperature.
3. Insulate and Protect Pipes
Pipe Insulation:Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawlspaces to prevent freezing.
Drip Faucets: Inextreme cold, let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
Shut Off ExteriorFaucets: Drain and shut off water supply to outdoor faucets and hoses toprevent freezing.
4. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Roof Leaks: Checkfor any damaged shingles or roof leaks, as they can lead to costly repairsduring heavy snow or rain.
Clean Gutters:Clear out debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams, which cancause water to leak into your home.
5. Insulate the Attic
Add Insulation:Increase attic insulation to keep heat from escaping through the roof. Properinsulation can save on heating costs.
Ventilation:Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ice dams.
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Replace batteriesin smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially when using fireplaces orspace heaters.
7. Check Windows and Curtains
Install StormWindows: Use storm windows or plastic window insulation kits to add an extralayer of protection against the cold.
Heavy Curtains:Hang insulated or heavy curtains to block drafts and retain heat.
8. Inspect the Fireplace
Flue Inspection:Make sure the chimney flue is properly functioning and free of obstructions.
Fireplace Tools:Have fireplace tools, kindling, and firewood ready for use.
9. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Reverse thedirection of ceiling fans to push warm air down into the room. Fans shouldrotate clockwise during winter.
10. Prepare for Snow and Ice
Snow RemovalTools: Stock up on snow shovels, de-icer, and sand for walkways.
Emergency Kit:Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, food, and flashlightsin case of power outages.
Winterizing your home helps avoid costly repairs and ensuresyou stay comfortable throughout the cold season.
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John just completed his own stair remodeling project. Wethought we would have a discussion about redoing your stairs. NOTE: You might want to visit our YouTube site for the pictures.
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Think you have mold in your home? This episode will help you identify mold, thepotential hazards, and how to prevent and remove mold in from your home
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A planer is a woodworking tool used to smooth and flattenwooden surfaces, ensuring consistent thickness throughout a board. It'scommonly used for:
1. Flatteningrough surfaces: A planer shaves off thin layers of wood to create an evensurface.
2. Adjustingthickness: It helps in reducing the thickness of a board to a desiredmeasurement.
3. Smoothingwood grain: Planers can improve the texture of the wood, making it easier tofinish with paint or varnish.
Planers come in both hand-held and machine versions, withthe latter being more efficient for large woodworking projects.
⢠Full size3-1/4 in. cut width
⢠Includes:(2) Reversible Double-Edged Blades and Dust Bag
⢠AutomaticKickstand Prevents Marring of Work Piece
The Ryobi One+ 18-Volt hand planer has an incredible 3 in1/4 in. cut width and up to 1/16 in. cutting depth per pass. This planer isloaded with great features such as its automatic kickstand, which helps preventyou from marring your workpiece and has a convenient on-board blade wrenchstorage. The dual left or right chip exhaust also gives you the freedom tochoose what you are most comfortable with.
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Developing a business referral mindset is about cultivatingrelationships and a reputation that encourage others to send business your way.Here are some steps to help foster this mindset:
1. Focus on Building Genuine Relationships
⢠Cultivatetrust and rapport with customers, peers, and other business owners.
⢠Understandthat referrals often come from people who genuinely like and trust you.
2. Deliver Outstanding Service
⢠Exceedexpectations in your interactions with clients and partners.
⢠Happyclients are more likely to refer others because they feel confident in thequality of your service.
3. Be Proactive in Asking for Referrals
⢠Make itpart of your routine to ask satisfied clients for referrals.
⢠Phraseyour request in a way that emphasizes the value you'd provide to the referredperson, e.g., "If you know anyone who could benefit from my services, I'dbe happy to help them out."
4. Offer Referrals to Others
⢠Givereferrals to other businesses or professionals when appropriate.
⢠Thisdemonstrates your willingness to help others succeed and builds reciprocity.
5. Stay Connected
⢠Stay intouch with past clients, prospects, and referral partners.
⢠Regularcommunication, such as sending updates or checking in, keeps you top of mind.
6. Network Strategically
⢠Joinprofessional organizations or attend industry events where you can buildrelationships with potential referral partners.
⢠Look foropportunities to form mutually beneficial alliances.
7. Create a Referral Program
⢠Offerincentives or rewards for clients or partners who refer new business to you.
⢠Make theprocess simple and clear to encourage participation.
8. Be Authentic and Ethical
⢠Ensureyour referral system is based on genuine value, not just a transaction.
⢠Maintainingintegrity is key for long-term success in generating referrals.
9. Educate Your Network
⢠Make surepeople know what you do and who your ideal clients are so they can refer theright people to you.
⢠Shareyour success stories and case studies to highlight how your work benefitsothers.
10. Express Gratitude
⢠Whensomeone refers business to you, acknowledge and thank them, whether it's apersonalized note, a call, or a small gesture of appreciation.
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Thinking of putting up a fence, installing a shed, seedingyour lawn? Many home improvementprojects require knowing where your property lines are (sometimesexactly).
Knowing where your property lines are before undertakingmany projects will help protect your property rights and reduce disputes withneighbors.
To find your property lines, you have several options:
1. Check Your Deed or Survey
⢠Deed:Your property deed often includes a legal description of your property, whichdefines its boundaries. It might describe the property in relation to landmarksor coordinates.
⢠Survey:If you have a property survey, it provides precise measurements and a detailedmap of your property lines. You might have received this document when youpurchased the property.
2. Look for Physical Markers
⢠PropertyMarkers: Surveyors often place iron pins or concrete markers at the corners ofyour property. You can locate these markers with a metal detector or bymeasuring distances from known landmarks (like roads or utility poles) asdescribed in your deed.
3. Visit Your Local Government Office
⢠CountyAssessor or Recorder's Office: You can obtain property maps, records, andsometimes surveys from the local county office. Many counties offer access toonline Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which allow you to view propertyboundaries.
4. Use an Online GIS Mapping Tool
⢠CountyGIS: Many counties provide online tools that allow you to view property lineson a map. Most GIS system that lets you search by address and view propertyboundaries.
5. Hire a Professional Surveyor
⢠If youneed precise property lines for legal purposes or construction, hiring aprofessional surveyor is the most accurate method. They will use equipment andofficial records to mark your property boundaries.
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Here are five tips for buying real estate:
1. InspectThoroughly: Before making an offer, conduct a thorough inspection of theproperty. This includes structural elements, plumbing, electrical systems, andany potential issues that could affect the value or safety of the home.
2. Researchthe Market: Drive the Neighborhood. Understand the current market conditions in the area where you want tobuy. Look at trends in property values, average selling prices, and the overalleconomic outlook.
3. LocalGovernmental Issues: Check local codes, districts, and public services. Are you potentially in any special district(historic, etc). Are the public servicesreasonable in cost (donât assume)? Electricity, water, gas, check them out.
4. OtherLegal Issues: Easements and contractual arrangements
5. ConsiderFuture Resale: Even if you plan to live in the home long-term, think about itsresale potential. Factors like location, neighborhood amenities, and thecondition of the property can impact its value over time.
These tips can help you navigate the real estate market moreeffectively and make informed decisions when buying a property.
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In this episode the Handyman Pros have a discussion and dispel some common beliefsabout Home Improvement.
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Before doing anything drastic (like replacing an entiresystem), you should call out a tech to give your system a quick tune-up.
a. This willinvolve assessing your systemâs indoor and outdoor components, including ductsand dirty filters.
b. Youâllwant to make sure that the area around your HVAC system is clear. Your air conditioner condenser cannot work atits peak capacity if plants or dirt and weeds restrict its airflow. For maximum output, clear an area of fourfeet around the condenser.
Troublesome airflow might come from your homeâs ductwork.
c. Therecould be design issues or leaks causing uneven cooling, especially in olderhomes with HVAC systems that havenât been maintained in a while.
d. As aresult, cool air can struggle to reach the upstairs, because itâs eithergetting lost due to leaks or warming as it travels.
Placing portable fans or adding ceiling fans could do thetrick. Fans can boost air circulationand make a noticeable difference. Theair from the fan creates a cooling effect and can help give your A/C a boost.â
Keep Interior doors open: Let the air flow, minimizes âhot spotsâ
Close your blinds, curtains, or add window film! Blocking the light keeps homes cooler.
Turn off the lights. Unless you are all LED, lightbulbs add significant heat.
Consider a window AC unit
Check your attic. Isthe floor properly insulated? Is theattic vented properly?
Check to see if you have Zoned AC. Consider adding a unit (mini splits workgreat).
Live in the downstairs for the summer!
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Here are five natural weed killers you can use:
1. Vinegar:White vinegar contains acetic acid, which is effective at killing weeds. It'sbest used on young, small weeds. Be careful as it can also harm other plants.
2. RubbingAlcohol: Alcohol dehydrates plants, making it effective at killing weeds.Sprinkle it directly on weeds or mix it with water for a spray solution.
3. BoilingWater: Pouring boiling water directly onto weeds can kill them by scalding.This method works best for weeds growing in cracks in sidewalks or driveways.
4. Pull theweeds: The old fashioned way!
5. Mulch:Applying a thick layer of mulch around plants can block sunlight, preventingweed seeds from germinating. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or grassclippings also improve soil health as they decompose.
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Regular monthly maintenance can help keep your home in goodcondition and prevent larger issues from developing. Hereâs a list of tasks youshould consider doing each month:
1. HVACFilters:
a. Check andreplace the HVAC filters as needed to ensure your system runs efficiently andmaintains good air quality.
2. KitchenSink Disposal:
. Clean the garbage disposal byrunning a mixture of vinegar and baking soda through it or using ice cubes andlemon slices to sharpen and deodorize the blades.
3. Range HoodFilters:
. Clean or replace the range hoodfilters to remove grease and improve ventilation.
4. Smoke andCarbon Monoxide Detectors:
. Test smoke and carbon monoxidedetectors to ensure they are working properly. Replace batteries if needed.
5. Faucetsand Showerheads:
. Check for leaks and ensure there isno buildup of mineral deposits. Clean the aerators on faucets to maintain goodwater flow.
6. Toilets:
. Check for leaks and ensure they areflushing properly. You can use food coloring in the tank to see if it leaksinto the bowl.
7. Drains:
. Clean drains with a mixture ofbaking soda and vinegar to prevent clogs and maintain good drainage.
8. FireExtinguishers:
. Ensure they are easily accessibleand check the pressure gauge to make sure they are fully charged.
9. Refrigerator:
. Clean the coils and check thetemperature settings to ensure efficient operation. Dispose of expired fooditems.
10. Dishwasher:
. Run a cleaning cycle with vinegaror a commercial dishwasher cleaner to remove buildup and ensure it operatesefficiently.
11. Windows andDoors:
. Check for drafts and inspect theweatherstripping. Lubricate hinges and locks if necessary.
12. WaterSoftener:
. Check the salt levels and add saltif necessary to keep the system functioning properly.
13. Exterior:
. Inspect the exterior of your homefor any signs of damage, such as cracks or peeling paint. Clean gutters anddownspouts if necessary.
14. Yard andLandscaping:
. Trim shrubs and trees as needed,check irrigation systems, and remove debris from the lawn.
15. SafetyEquipment:
. Check first aid kits to ensure theyare fully stocked and accessible.
By keeping up with these monthly maintenance tasks, you canhelp prolong the life of your home's systems and appliances and maintain a safeand comfortable living environment.
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What is a Renocation, you might ask? Well, a Renocation is combining a vacationwith a renovation, thought we would give a few tips on taking a Renocation.
⢠Wouldnâtit be nice to go on vacation and come home to a new Kitchen, Bath or some otherhome improvement you want?
o Youârenot there during messy, noisy, potentially dangerous demolition.
o You skipthe chaos of workers going in and out of your house all day, drilling,hammering and creating fumes.
o You donâthave to deal with the inconvenience of not having a working kitchen, havingwater shut off periodically or entire rooms not being usable.
o Workerscan start work earlier and work later in the day, knowing theyâre notdisturbing homeowners.
o You avoidthe urge to micromanage the project and constantly look over the shoulders ofcontractors.
o Someprojects, like a roof replacement, may be so disruptive that itâs best tovacate the house anyway.
o You comehome to a finished project, and get the âWow!â moment of seeing your renovatedhome for the first time.
o
⢠Reasonswhy you might not want to take a Renocation. Here are some potential downsides to being away while the work is done:
⢠Youâllcome home to a mess, especially if thereâs no project manager supervising onyour behalf. Your contractor isnât going to dust, sweep and vacuum for you.
⢠Workerswill make themselves at home in the ownerâs absence. Your bathroom willdefinitely get used and abused. Leaveplenty of toilet paper behind!
⢠Youârenever really âawayâ from the job site. While out of town, your phone will ringand ping constantly, with calls and messages concerning the work at your house.
⢠Thingscan go wrong. Sheetrock went up before a few electrical outlets were in place.They had to add them after the fact and it delayed the completion time.
⢠You mightnot get what you asked for. That gorgeous sage green paint you picked out forthe guest bathroom might be mis-ordered, and youâll come home to chartreusewalls!
⢠Vacationsare expensive, and so are renovations. Combining the two may stretch yourrenovation budget beyond its limits.
o
⢠Tips fora Renocation.
o Notapplicable to all projects,
o GoodContractors love when clients go on Renocation!
o Find aGood Contractor
o Bespecific and have a strong plan
o Have theability to be contacted
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Summer always brings out the mosquitoes. There are some simple things you can do toreduce the number of mosquitoes around your home.
⢠WearLight Colored Clothing: Turns out, mosquitoes are attracted to dark coloredclothing
⢠Run Fansat Ground Level: The chemicals human bodies put off hang in the air around usand allow mosquitoes to hone in on us â and thatâs when the biting starts.Rapid air movement confuses mosquitoes, and dissipating these telltale humansigns makes us harder to find. So setfans on the ground and turn them on to break up the scent patterns. This simplesolution is surprisingly effective for spur-of-the-moment events or gatheringsin your yard. Because they are so light, mosquitoes are weak flyers. The breezefrom the fans makes it difficult for them to fly, keeping them out of yourentertainment area. If you donât have repellent on hand, then this is the bestway to get rid of mosquitoes for the moment.
⢠EliminateStanding Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so empty any containersthat collect water regularly, such as flower pots, buckets, and bird baths.
⢠MaintainGutters and Drains: Clean out gutters and ensure they are not clogged, asclogged gutters can hold water and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
⢠Keep YardClean: Remove any debris or leaf piles where water can collect. Trim overgrownvegetation where mosquitoes like to rest during the day.
⢠UseMosquito Repellents: Use mosquito repellents on your skin or clothing whenoutdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. DEET, Clove Spray, Citronella oil,Peppermint, NEEM, Lavender, Eucalyptus.
⢠InstallScreens: Ensure windows and doors have screens without holes to preventmosquitoes from entering your home.
⢠ConsiderMosquito Traps: There are various types of traps available that can help reducemosquito populations around your property.
⢠NaturalPredators: Encourage natural predators of mosquitoes, such as dragonflies, byadding plants and water features that attract them.
⢠Mosquito-RepellingPlants: Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lavender, marigolds,and basil around your yard.
⢠ProfessionalHelp: In severe cases, consider contacting a pest control professional who canprovide more targeted solutions.
Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce themosquito population around your home and make your outdoor spaces moreenjoyable.
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We are in the middle of the AC season. Thought we would go over some of the simplefixes that you can DIY before you call the service technician (and pay the bigbucks!).
Understand how an AC Unit works
o Ambienttemperature differential
o Settingtemperature to a lower setting does not mean your unit will cool faster
o Is yourhome well insulated?
There are a few simple things you can check to see if yourair conditioning is working properly:
1. ThermostatSettings: Ensure your thermostat is set to "cool" and the temperatureis set lower than the current room temperature.
2. AirFilter: Check and replace your air filter if it's dirty. A clogged filter canrestrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your AC.
3. PowerSupply: Make sure your AC unit is receiving power. Check the circuit breakerand ensure it hasn't tripped. Also, check if the outdoor unit is plugged in.
4. Vents andRegisters: Ensure all vents and registers are open and not blocked by furnitureor other objects.
5. OutdoorUnit: Inspect the outdoor unit to make sure it's not obstructed by debris,leaves, or other objects. Clear any debris around the unit to ensure properairflow.
6. CondenserCoils: Check the condenser coils for dirt or debris. If they are dirty, you canclean them with a garden hose, but make sure the unit is turned off first.
7. BlowerMotor: Listen for the sound of the blower motor. If it's not running, theremight be an issue with the motor or a related component.
8. DrainLine: Check the condensate drain line to ensure it's not clogged. A cloggeddrain line can cause water to back up and damage the system.
If you've checked these things and your AC is still notworking properly, it might be time to call a professional technician todiagnose and fix the issue.
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I was at a client's home and noticed that she had a timerswitch on the bathroom fan. This is notthe old turn the dial timer switch, but an attractive electronic version thatgives you several choices. John and Idiscussed, and we decided to do a show on some of the options for switches andoutlets
⢠What weare not talking about
o 3 or 4way switches
o Duplex orsquare outlets
o GFCI
o SmartSwitches
⢠MultipleSwitches
⢠DimmerSwitches
o Manydifferent styles
ď§ Rotary
ď§ Slide
ď§ Slidewith switch
ď§ Touch toslide
ď§ Fade
o Make surethey are LED capable
⢠MotionSensor
⢠24 hourprogrammable
⢠Timerswitches
⢠IlluminatedSwitches
⢠In WallHumidity Fan Control Switch
⢠Outlets
o USB
o NightLight
o Switchable
o SurgeSuppressor
o recessed
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This show is all about saving you time, money andaggravation. These tips can help youavoid plumbing emergencies.
⢠Monitoryour water bill
o Look forincreased billing, can indicate a problem
⢠WatchWhat you put in your Drains and Toilets
o Justbecause the packaging says itâs flushable does not mean itâs flushable
o Watch theFOG (fats, oils and greases), hard items, chemicals
o Avoidharsh drain cleaning chemicals, corrode and melt pipes, damage septic systems
⢠Doregular inspections
o Look fordrain leaks under sinks, washing machine hoses, sink connections, ice makerconnections, toilet connections
o Checkyour PRV Valve
o Waterfilter maintenance
o Wateraround toilet (toilet seal)
⢠Test youremergency systems
o Hot waterrelief valve
o Sump pump
o Mainwater shut off valve
⢠Checkyour water heater
o Drainregularly
o Changethe anode rod
⢠Preventfrozen pipes
o Wrapexposed pipes with insulation or heat tape
o Flowwater on extremely cold nights
⢠Turn offmain water shut off valve when traveling
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The Handyman Pros give some tips on using the technology (mostly your phone) to enhance your ability to stay organized, be professional, and help you savetime, money, and aggravation!
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