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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’re talking about carbon monoxide safety tips for the heating season, how to track down a reliable contractor, and prepping your windows for winter. We’re also giving expert advice to DIY callers seeking home improvement success! - Window Care: Winter-proof your windows with these simple tips for cleaning, storing, and sealing. - Hiring Contractors: Get your next project done right by choosing the best contractor for the job. - Carbon Monoxide: Learn how to detect and protect against the silent threat of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home.   Q & A: - Bathroom Tile: Dawn is retiling her bathroom and gets tips for installing a shower pan and tiling around it to keep water from running out of the shower. - Water Pressure: Sam has low water pressure in just one bathtub. The problem may be clogged steel pipes, a valve issue, or a bad faucet. - Deck Finish: Half of Teresa’s wood deck is new pretreated lumber and the other half is painted. She needs to scrape off the old paint before staining the entire surface. - Fire Pit: What is the best way to build a fire pit? James gets recommendations for an easy DIY fire pit kit from RumbleStone. - Wood Flooring: Diane is having trouble installing a wood floor over an uneven subfloor. She needs either a carpentry fix or a floor-leveling compound. - Window Condensation: There is condensation around the edges of Steve’s new windows. He should contact the manufacturer and the installer to have them fixed. - Moisture Odor: Odors are coming from moisture in the crawlspace. Bridget should lay down a plastic vapor barrier and install a door to close the crawlspace from the basement. - Log Home: The inside of the exterior log cabin walls have unsightly cracks. Nina can try using a wood filler but it will keep happening, so she should embrace the rustic look.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’re talking about mold vs. mildew and why knowing the difference matters. We’ll also cover an invasive plant that’s threatening property values. Plus, discover how spray foam can help you seal gaps and save on heating costs like never before. Listen in for all this and more expert advice for all your home improvement questions! - Mold vs. Mildew: Is it mold or mildew? Get key clues to know the difference and keep your home safe. - Invasive Plants: This invasive plant species is causing serious problems for homes and properties across the U.S. - Spray Foam: A DIY spray foam kit offers an effective solution for sealing drafty gaps and saving energy.   Q & A: - Cleaning: Can you clean grease stains from a garage floor? We advise Kathy to clean the floor with a TSP paste, then apply an epoxy paint finish that’s durable and easy to maintain. - Heating: Can Nathan use a wood-fired stove for in-floor heating? It can be done but will require more work to maintain, so an oil-fired boiler may be a better choice. - Painting Doors: A worker used canned spray paint to paint Anna’s doors and now they’re sticking! She gets tips on how to remove, strip, prime, and paint the doors again. - HVAC: Ed is concerned about a client who’s using cheap HVAC filters. We confirm that better filters are needed and dispel myths about any HVAC damage they may cause. - Deck Stain: Sue’s deck is peeling after she mistakenly applied latex stain over the oil-based stain. She’ll need to scrape the surface before using an oil-based primer and stain. - Fire Safety: Dave has questions about the danger of using reflective foil-faced insulation tape behind his heater. It’s an off-label use, so he should keep an eye out for potential risks. - Siding: Should Mary be using caulk on the nail holes and seams when installing concrete siding? She only needs to touch up any nail holes that have broken through. - Door Swing: Scott’s bathroom door blocks the light switch, but it would be easier to relocate the switch than to change the direction of the door swing. - Gutters: Esther needs to replace the gutters but is afraid of cracking the asphalt shingles. We recommend attaching the gutters directly to the fascia with gutter screws.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: This week, we’ll show you how to build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams with simple modular blocks, reveal insider secrets to picking paint colors like a pro, and tackle the challenge of transforming rooms that feel beyond repair. Plus, get answers to home improvement questions to make your next DIY home improvement project a success! Painting: New hue? Make your project pop with pro tips for choosing the right paint colors. Outdoor Kitchens: Stack and sizzle by building an outdoor kitchen with DIY modular blocks. Saving Space: Take space-saving steps to make hopeless rooms salvageable.   Q & A: Adding Bathroom: Where is the best place to add a second bathroom? Keri would get more ROI with a bathroom on the second floor instead of the basement. Basement Water: Randall’s basement got flooded and still gets damp. He gets advice about having vents in the crawlspace and improving drainage outside the house. Worms: Lillian is bothered by all the worms that keep getting into the indoor patio after it rains. We wouldn’t try to eliminate them because they’re beneficial to the soil. Ceiling Leak: Vincent’s not sure where the metal roof is leaking through the ceiling. He gets tips on finding the roof leak, using a sealant, and priming and painting the ceiling. HVAC: How hard is it to install air conditioning? Courtney should keep the very efficient baseboard heating, and adding A/C ductwork is not terribly difficult.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this home improvement episode, get bright ideas for kitchen lighting, learn how to stop energy loss with efficient insulation, and find ways to reduce pet odors in your home. Plus, hear expert answers to lots more DIY questions to create your best home ever! - Kitchen Lighting: Brighten up your cooking and dining with attractive and efficient kitchen lighting. - Insulation: Stop wasting energy by choosing the right insulation for your home. - Pet Odors: Enjoy tail-wagging snuggles that pass that sniff test with 7 tips for reducing pet odors.   Q & A: - Deck Stain: The stain on Bella’s deck is already chipping off, probably because the surface was still damp. We suggest scraping off the loose spots and touching up those areas. - Foundation: Randy’s house foundation was jacked up and he’s not sure what should be sealed. He gets tips for reducing moisture in the crawlspace and basement. - Crack Moisture: Oily moisture is oozing through hairline cracks in a Terrazzo floor. Judith gets advice for drainage outside the house and sealing the crack with silicone. - Water Heater: Water takes a long time to get hot on the far end of Stewart’s house. He can install a second water heater that’s closer or a hot water recirculation system. - Dirty Toilet: Cindy gets persistent dirty residue around the water line in her toilets. She can try using commercial cleaners or installing a self-cleaning toilet. - Cracked Wall: There’s a big, long crack in the wall behind Jim’s garage. He needs to hire a structural engineer to see if it’s an active crack and how to fix it properly. - Flooring: Char wants advice on how to match new flooring with the laminate in other rooms. We discuss some color options and getting samples of different products. - Roof Restoration: Debbie asks if Roof Maxx is a legitimate product. We confirm it can add years to the life of a roof while saving money and explain how the process works.    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, get a grip on DIY projects with the right tape for every need, learn how to choose between building a deck or a patio, and enjoy clean, great-tasting water with an easy filtration system. Plus, hear answers to other home improvement questions from callers like you! - Tape: When you need sticky solutions, this is where to get the right tape for every DIY project. - Deck vs. Patio: Use these tips to decide whether a wood deck or a brick patio is right for your outdoor living space. - Clean Water: Get clean, great-tasting water with an easy and compact water filtration system.   Q & A: - Heated Floor: Jeanette has questions about the ease and expense of a DIY radiant heated floor. We suggest having it professionally installed and give tips on cutting costs. - Fence: Ron wants to replace the wire fence to keep out wildlife. A chain-link metal fence would be the strongest option. - Electrical: After changing her mind about basement lighting, Katherine needs to disconnect the live wiring and cover the fixture holes with plates or new drywall patches. - Flagpole: Linda gets advice on how to attach a flagpole bracket to a porch column by drilling pilot holes, using longer screws, and adding a wood block on the uneven surface. - Deck Cleaning: How can you clean cooking oil stains off a Trex deck? If using a TSP paste doesn’t work, Mark can flip the board over to the clean side. - Windows: Can casement windows be replaced with double-hung windows? It may be easier for Russ to install better-quality casement windows. - Concrete Stains: Winston can’t remove the stains on his concrete garage floor. Applying epoxy floor paint is an attractive and durable way to cover the 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: 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.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: 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.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: 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.      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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we dive into pool safety, sharing crucial tips to prevent drownings with layers of protection. Then, we demystify foundation cracks, distinguishing between minor issues and major concerns. Plus, we reveal a quick fix for restoring textured walls and ceilings. And as always, we answer more DIY questions to turn your projects into successes! Foundation Cracks: Worried about foundation cracks? Get tips on knowing if they’re simple or serious. Pool Safety: Guard your kids against drowning with these important layers of pool protection. Textured Surfaces: Repairing textured walls and ceilings is made easy with this DIY product.   Q & A: Stone Patio: Dean wants to fill the spaces in his flagstone patio, but mortar will crack from expansion and contraction. Concrete Repair: Linda has two porches on a concrete slab that’s starting to crack. She needs to use silicone caulk to seal out water and gets tips on matching the color. HVAC: Is there a way to direct cool basement air to the upper floors? Jeff learns why it’s not a good idea to circulate basement air that may have moisture and contaminants. Clothes Dryer: Sherry’s dryer does dry the clothes, but they get damp again if they’re left in the dryer overnight. It’s an odd issue that may be caused by humidity in the house. Roof Stains: Dan wants to know how to clean and prevent black streaks on his new roof. We suggest spraying the roof with an easy DIY cleaner and covering the roof ridge with copper flashing to prevent mildew. Cleaning Cabinets: How should Margie clean greasy residue from her kitchen cabinets? We recommend starting with a citrus grease remover. DIY Gutters: Is it hard to install your own gutters? Michael can definitely save money with this DIY project, but he’ll need to carefully join and attach the gutter sections. Humidity: Pat’s new heat pump is not removing the humidity from her home. A heat pump is not designed to do that, but she could consider getting a whole house dehumidifier. Woodburning Stoves: Which woodburning stoves are the most efficient? John gets advice on looking for the EPA performance standards for stoves.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get advice on summertime safety and comfort, including how to beat the summer heat with no-cost to low-cost tips to stay cool, protecting your home from summer roof damage with a DIY roof inspection, and guarding against home burglaries while you’re away on summer vacation. Plus, we’ve got more answers to home improvement questions so you can get your projects done right! Home Security: Lock down peace of mind with these steps to secure your home against break-ins. Cooling Tips: Get low-cost and no-cost tips for keeping your home cool and comfortable. Roof Inspection: Stop leaks before they happen with a DIY roof inspection.   Q & A: Cleaning Brick: Gail wants to clean mortar off her exterior brick. We explain how to carefully use a wire brush or a drill attachment without damaging the brick. Deck Stain: The stain is wearing off on John’s deck planks and rails. He gets tips for prepping the surface and using a solid color deck stain that will last longer. Cleaning with Pets: Is there a solution for pet hair that gets all over? David needs to brush his dog often to remove the undercoat of hair and look for a powerful vacuum. Popcorn Ceiling: How can you clean a popcorn ceiling? You can’t, but Margaret finds out how to carefully remove the popcorn ceiling and paint it over. Bathroom Venting: Butch’s bathroom fan vents directly into the attic. We explain how to vent it outside through the siding or up through the roof. Chimney Repair: Lisa’s two chimneys were repaired and repointed, but should they be sealed, too? It’s probably not necessary if there are no leaks. Water Seepage: Water is coming into the garage from an uphill property. Butch gets advice on installing a curtain drain to divert the water. HVAC Leak: Leah has to keep boosting the Freon that leaks from her A/C unit. If she can’t find the source of the leak, she’ll need to consider replacing the 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us to learn how green home upgrades can enhance your selling price. Learn how to use convenient building blocks to create custom outdoor spaces, from patios to outdoor kitchens. Plus, find out how to keep your lawn lush without wasting water. And hear expert advice for more home improvement projects on your DIY list! Building Outdoor Structures: Custom building block kits make it easy and affordable to create patios, planters, benches, and more. Green Upgrades: Going green with the right eco-friendly upgrades can add value to your home. Lawn Care Savings: Get tips for growing a lush, green lawn while saving water and money.   Q & A: Bidet Toilet: Is it a good idea to have a bidet? Patricia gets info on affordable ways to try out the benefits of a bidet by installing an add-on model. HVAC Options: Mini-split ductless A/C or conventional outdoor A/C unit? A split ductless system can be very efficient if Doug has a strategy on what he needs and how to place it. Wildlife Pests: Rena wants to stop raccoons from messing up her pool! Besides installing a fence and hiding things that will attract them, she can use a humane trap to catch and release them somewhere else. Plumbing Leak: Whenever the outdoor spigot is turned on, water comes up inside Andrew’s basement. We advise him to check for a valve that’s not sealed properly. Patio Stones: Darlene has gaps in her flagstone patio and some stones are popping up. She should reset the area to level it better and add crushed gravel between the stones. Cracked Plaster: Jules’ old home has lots of cracks in the plaster walls. We suggest adding a layer of new drywall over the walls instead of taking down the plaster. Bad Contractors: An incompetent brick mason did a lousy job and then stole $6,000. Oralee should look into pressing charges and taking the contractor to court. Foundation: The brick foundation of Ed’s Victorian home is starting to bow out. He needs to hire a structural engineer to determine how to repair it correctly. Heating System: Janey wants to upgrade her heating system before selling her home. A heat pump is affordable and efficient, but a good home inspector can tell her what’s really needed. Roofing: Joey needs tips on replacing an old roof with a metal roof. It’s a more expensive, long-term investment and he gets some step-by-step instructions.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we reveal five expert paint tips to expand the feel of your smaller rooms. We’ll also chat about the importance of flexible living spaces in the modern home. And if you’re planning a painting project, we’ll share info about paint sprayers for quick, mess-free results. Let’s turn your to-do list into a done list with answers to these and other home improvement questions from today’s callers! Painting Tips: These 5 strategic painting tips can make small rooms look bigger. Flexible Living Spaces: Find out about the latest trends in flexible living spaces that do double or triple duty. Paint Sprayers: Powerful new DIY paint sprayers let you tackle paint projects faster and more efficiently.   Q & A: Roof Leak: Judy’s roof was repaired and the underlayment is fine, but it’s still leaking. We suggest checking the boot and flashing around the plumbing vent pipe. Cleaning Porch: There are white mineral deposits on Tom’s aluminum porch struts. He can use a vinegar and water solution to clean the surface and should look for ways to dehumidify the space. Smoke Smell: The previous owner of Eve’s home was a heavy smoker. We suggest cleaning everything and using a good oil-based primer to seal the ceilings, walls, and floors to get rid of the smoke smell. Sinkhole: A sinkhole is developing over the edge of the septic system. Brian should have a septic inspector check for a failing septic field. Slow Drain: Mary’s bathtub drains slowly but the plumber can’t find the cause. She needs to hire a drain cleaning professional to find and clear the blockage. Deck Stain: What kind of stain should be used for a new deck? Randy should wait a while for the lumber to dry out, and then apply a solid color deck stain that lasts longer. Sink Odor: There’s a foul odor coming from the bathroom sink. We give Yvonne tips for taking apart and scrubbing the drain and trap to get rid of smelly bacteria and bio-gases.    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, learn how to refresh your home decor affordably with five practical tips and get four strategies to reduce pool heating costs. Plus, find out the benefits of motion detector spotlights for enhanced home security and convenience. Listen in for answers to these and other home improvement questions on today’s show! Pool Heating: Dive into savings with tips to reduce pool heating costs. Home Decorating: Learn thrifty ways to refresh your home décor without breaking the bank. Motion Detector Lights: Discover the convenience and benefits of outdoor motion security lights.   Q & A: Painting Siding: Can you paint aluminum siding? Pat gets tips for power washing and priming the surface for good adhesion before applying a topcoat of paint. Water Heater: Stewart needs advice about replacing his oil water heater with an electric water heater. It’s more expensive to buy but less expensive to run, especially if it has a timer. Lawn Care: Catherine wants to replace sod that never took root. She should start with a soil test to find out how to adjust the soil with the proper fertilizer and lawn care. Deck Stain: How can Gary clean a barbecue grease stain on his deck? If the wood has been stained before, he should use a stain stripper. If not, he needs a deck cleaner. Squirrels: Squirrels have chewed the bird feeder and chased the birds away. Priscella gets suggestions for keeping the squirrels away from the bird feeder. Log Cabin: Gary wants to stain the faded log cabin walls. He should start by cleaning the logs thoroughly, then decide whether to apply a clear sealant or a colored stain. Wood Floors: How can old pine and oak floors be safely cleaned? We recommend a natural cleaning product that Margaret can use without damaging the wood.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show covers practical methods for removing unsightly tree stumps, offers advice on staying cool without skyrocketing utility bills, and presents a technique to extend your roof's lifespan by five years. Plus, listen as we provide expert advice for additional home improvement questions from DIY callers like you! Cooling Costs: Learn how to beat summer heat with hot tips for a cool home and lower utility bills. Stump Removal: Don’t get stumped by the challenge of stump removal after taking down trees. Roof Restoration: Old roofs get new life with an effective Roof Maxx treatment to restore worn roof shingles without roof replacement.   Q & A: Patio Repair: Alicia’s cement slab patio has a crack that’s getting wider. We recommend using a crack repair product and considering an attractive paver brick that’s designed to go on top of the slab. Roof Moss: What’s the best way to remove and prevent moss on the roof? Glen should apply a mildewcide spray and install copper flashing at the peak of the roof to prevent moss. Cracked Driveway: Should Karen repair or replace her cracked concrete driveway? She can use an easy concrete repair product, but if the surface shifts, the cracks will reappear. Mold Removal: William has mold on the walls and ceiling of his cabin. He should carefully use oxygenated bleach products to thoroughly clean off the mold, but will need to maintain and ventilate the cabin. Countertops: Frankie gets information about a DIY weekend project to refinish old laminate countertops and give them the look of a beautiful stone surface. Vinyl Siding: The vinyl siding is buckling on Earl’s house. The shingles were installed too tightly, so he must remove the siding and reattach them to allow space for expansion.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, learn how to avoid costly mistakes when building your backyard deck. We’ll also provide tips on designing an efficient and functional kitchen layout, plus share info on a powerful and convenient solution for summer power outages. Tune in for expert advice to help you tackle all your home improvement challenges with confidence! Kitchen Design: Get professional tips for smart design in your dream kitchen. Building a Deck: Watch out for making these costly mistakes when building a deck. Backup Power: This portable battery backup is a quiet and easy solution for summer power outages.   Q & A: Brick Steps: How can Mia remove carpet that’s glued onto brick steps? She’ll need an adhesive remover to soften and scrape off the glue and we suggest applying thin pavers or exterior ceramic tiles on top of the steps. Chimney Repair: Moisture is getting into a chimney that’s losing stucco. Anthony should remove any loose stucco and use a repair product that will adhere to concrete and brick. Countertops: Jason’s renovating his kitchen and needs inexpensive options for his countertops. We’ve got info on durable DIY products that can create the look of stone countertops. Foundation: There are cracks in the concrete slab and the kitchen is starting to dip. Rochelle should hire a structural engineer to determine how to make the best repairs. Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees have invaded Kevin’s porch and fence! He needs a pest control professional and should replace the wood with PVC materials. Water Damage: Dewey’s basement stinks from a prior sewage backup. We’ve got tips on tearing out the drywall, wiring, outlets, and flooring and having a remediation company treat the problem. Flooring Polish: Is French polish a good option for refinishing hardwood floors? Theresa learns that it’s a beautiful finish but not very durable for a busy household. Efficient Windows: How energy-efficient are low-E windows? We confirm that low-E glass coating will reflect the sun’s UV rays and make a big difference in Bruce’s energy bills. Rust Stains: Metal railings have left rust stains on Tamra’s pavers. We recommend using natural acid products like lemon juice or vinegar or certain chemical products. Musty Odors: Bryan’s crawlspace gets a musty odor in the summer when he’s away. Humidity builds when the house is closed up, so he could use an exhaust fan with a humidistat and check the exterior drainage to reduce moisture.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get tips for indoor and outdoor safety as we reveal the critical signs of gas leaks and how to prevent them, plus the unique requirements of pool fencing to keep your pool area secure. Then, learn foolproof tips for repairing drywall issues once and for all. Tune in and let us help you tackle all your home improvement projects! Pool Fence: Swimming safety starts with this important pool fence checklist to protect kids from danger. Gas Leaks: Learn the signs of dangerous gas leaks and how to avoid them. Drywall Repairs: Get tips for common drywall repairs like nail pops, holes, and cracks.   Q & A: Pool Deck: Barb’s pool deck has cracks and exposed rebar. It can be repaired, but she gets advice to beware of upselling tactics by pool contractors. Uneven HVAC: The downstairs is cold and the upstairs is warm. Michael’s HVAC contractor should have done a heat loss analysis to balance the airflow. Building a Patio: Can Courtney build a brick patio in an area with tree roots? We suggest building a deck on an above-grade platform to keep it level. Roofing Insulation: Should Kevin install a metal or an asphalt roof and what kind of insulation does he need? Metal roofs are a great investment and closed-cell spray foam insulation is excellent. Windows: Sally’s large double-pane windows are fogging up from failed seals that allow moisture inside. They can’t be repaired but it doesn’t affect their efficiency. Loose Tiles: Floor tiles are coming loose in Tony’s hallway. We have tips for lifting, regrouting, and resetting the loose tiles. Gutters: It’s hard to find replacements for wooden gutters that are deteriorating. George gets recommendations for buying fiberglass gutters to match the style of wood gutters. Grouting: Victoria really doesn’t want to regrout the entire shower! She can just pull out the areas of loose grout, but it may be hard to match the existing grout color. Insulation: Trevor wants to replace and insulate the tongue and groove boards on the ceiling. He won’t need a moisture barrier if he’s using spray foam insulation. Toilet Plumbing: The toilet makes a bubbling sound and doesn’t flush completely. It sounds like Barbara has a partial obstruction and should try using a toilet auger to clear 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Listen in as we discuss the allure of natural stone countertops vs. the upkeep they demand, five critical home filters that play a vital role in home health and efficiency, and how a timely roof inspection can prevent leaks and costly repairs. Plus, we have expert tips to help callers with more home improvement questions on this Money Pit episode! Stone Countertops: Get the stone-cold facts on the pros and cons of natural stone countertops. Filters: These are the top 5 most important filters you should be checking for home health and efficiency. Roof Maintenance: These roof inspection tips will help protect against damaging roof leaks.   Q & A: Water Pressure: Just one faucet in Tommy’s house has very low water pressure. It could be a blockage in the faucet aerator or the screen from the water line, or a faulty valve. Tile Floor: The tiles over Barbara’s heated floor are shifting and grout is coming out. She can either repair them as needed or remove and replace the tiles and heating coils. Gutters: It’s hard to reach old built-in gutters that are backing up. We explain how Paul can build out a pitched roof section over the gutters and install new, larger gutters. Driveway Repair: Are there options for restoring an old asphalt driveway? After 38 years, we agree it’s time for Susan to rip it up and have a new driveway poured. Shower Valve: Craig gets advice about rebuilding his shower valves and fixtures rather than going through the shared wall that separates them from another bathroom. Leaking Pipe: Sherilynn’s pool has a leak in the pipe going to the pump. It would be easier to replace an underground line rather than digging down to expose and repair it. Feral Cats: Feral cats in the backyard have become a real problem. Jeff may want to reach out for help from organizations that humanely trap, neuter, or rescue animals. Vinyl Flooring: Can Angela paint the old vinyl kitchen flooring that is yellowed and nicked? It’s not a good idea, but there are affordable flooring options she can consider.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’ll help you prevent pesky mosquitoes from ruining your summer nights. Plus, we’ll share how to reverse sun damage on your roof to extend its life, and why reclaimed lumber could be your next sustainable and cost-effective home improvement project. Get answers to these and other questions from DIYers just like you! Mosquitoes: Stop unwanted pests from buzzing your BBQ with tips for eliminating mosquitoes. Roof Restoration: There’s a way to reverse sun damage and extend the life of your dried-out roof. Reclaimed Lumber: Discover the charm and benefits of using reclaimed lumber for home décor.   Q & A: Sump Pump: Sharon’s furnace is pulling sewer gas from the sump pump. If it’s coming through the drain line, she should install a P-trap and fill it with water to stop air in the pipe. Exterior Door: Water is coming through the side of an exterior door. Jim should see if the door is evenly hung and look for gaps with a flashlight. Squirrels: A squirrel in the basement drop ceiling is making Alison nuts! We explain how to humanely trap the squirrel and release it outside. Old Deck: It’s time for Michael to replace an old wood deck. We suggest using pressure-treated wood for the substructure and composite materials for the boards and rails. Indoor Moisture: Judy found some moisture on the wall paneling and gets tips for reducing indoor humidity with improved exterior drainage and a whole house dehumidifier. Flooring: After Bob’s house flooded and the floor was replaced, the new floor tiles started coming apart. He’ll need to remove the flooring and reinstall it correctly. Painting Siding: How do you paint vinyl siding? David gets advice on applying a high-bond primer for better adhesion and using a paint sprayer for better coverage. Moldy Smell: The room above the garage has a moldy smell after it rains. Gail needs to improve the ventilation and reduce the humidity in the garage.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Listen in as we dive into the essentials of designing an amazing outdoor kitchen for your backyard gatherings and then discuss how metal roofs can significantly reduce your cooling costs. Plus, learn how to safely clean up and repair broken windows, and get helpful answers to lots more home improvement questions for all your DIY projects! Outdoor Kitchen: Get ready to sizzle in style with tips for designing an ideal outdoor kitchen. Metal Roofs: Find out why metal roofing is a cool choice for energy efficiency. Window Repair: Broken windows can be a pain in the glass, but here’s how to fix them safely.   Q & A: Painting Stucco: The paint on Terry’s stucco exterior didn’t last long. She gets tips on applying primer, the best temperature for paint projects, and using a paint sprayer. Mold Odors: Carolyn can’t get rid of a moldy smell in her kitchen cabinet. We suggest where to look for hidden mold and how to seal the surface with a clear finish. Solar Panels: Should solar panels be installed on the roof or away from the house? Albert gets advice about the lifespan of the roof and seeking open areas for the solar panels. Countertops: Linda gets step-by-step details about a product to refinish old, dark Formica countertops. Electrical: Marcie’s air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breaker. She may need an electrician to run a dedicated circuit with the proper size wiring. Crown Molding: Installing crown molding above kitchen cabinets can be tricky, but Brian gets tips on how to attach the molding securely without splitting the wood. Soundproofing: Darlene wants to silence the noise between the upstairs and downstairs apartments. Mineral wool insulation and sound-deadening drywall will keep things quiet. Bathtub Repair: There’s no easy way to fix cracks in an old bathtub, but Bill can use a fiberglass repair kit as a temporary solution before renovating or installing a tub insert.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Looking for privacy? Today, we'll explore natural landscaping screens over traditional fencing. Plus, discover the benefits of metal roofing for summer replacements and learn how to easily renovate your stairs for a fresh interior look. Listen in for info to create your best home ever, with tips for projects both big and small! - Stairs: Stepping up the style of your outdated stairs is a great DIY project for home design. - Privacy Screen: Landscaped privacy screens are a natural alternative to building a fence. - Metal Roofs: If you’re thinking about roof replacement, find out the unique benefits of installing a metal roof.   Q & A: - Shady Garden: Janet is having a hard time growing plants in the shade. We suggest some plant varieties she can try that thrive in shady gardens. - Cabinets: Brian wants to paint his oak wood cabinets white. He’ll need to strip off the finish, sand the surface, and use an oil-based primer to fill the grain before painting. - Roof Rejuvenation: What’s the best way to extend the life of an old shingle roof? Kelly gets recommendations about the effectiveness of Roof Maxx treatments. - Electrical: Is it worth upgrading 150 amp electrical service to 200 amps? We don’t think it’s necessary unless Alice is really using a lot more power in her home. - Kitchen Flooring: William wants to install bamboo flooring in the kitchen. It’s an excellent choice, along with options like cork flooring or vinyl planks for a different look. - Exterior Paint: The exterior paint on Helen’s house is bubbling up after just two months. The contractor should come back to make sure it’s primed correctly before painting it again.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, discover the beauty of eco-friendly natural in-ground pools. We'll also share tips on spotting roof leaks early and how the right tools can make painting projects a breeze. We're here to help you plan, save, and avoid mishaps with answers to these and other home improvement questions! - Natural Inground Pools: Transform your yard into an eco oasis with a natural inground pool. - Roof Leaks: Find out the clues for spotting a roof leak before it becomes a problem. - DIY Painting: Advances in tools make big painting projects faster and easier for any DIYer.   Q & A: - Mold: Andrea has mold between the sink and backsplash and around the tub. We explain the best way to clean and recaulk those areas to keep mildew from returning. - Tree Roots: Tree roots growing close to the surface make it hard to mow. Harris gets some ideas for landscaping or creating a bench around the tree. - Leaks: Water comes under the wood where Martha replaced her glass doors. She should have added a concrete block instead, and must redirect the water that’s pooling against the foundation. - Water Heater: Steve’s electric water heater is leaking, but he can’t replace it with a tankless water heater. A heat pump water heater costs more but is a good and more efficient option. - Wood Columns: Beth is having trouble painting wood columns in front of her home. We discuss ways to make it easier or replacing them with composite columns that won’t rot. - Basement Moisture: There is moisture seeping in a corner of Jeremy’s finished block basement. He can solve the problem by improving the drainage and grading outside the house. - Basement Floor: What kind of floor is best to install in a basement? Mary should give up the carpet and replace it with laminate or engineered hardwood flooring. - Floor Gaps: There are gaps where the bottom of the baseboard meets the wood floor. Tim should add shoe molding around the room to match the baseboard or the floor. - Painting Cedar: We offer advice to Beverly on using an oil-based primer and a solid stain to match her cedar posts to the white trim of her house.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Stay safe and secure with information about building a safe backyard playground for kids, battery technology to guard against power loss, and fences that add privacy, security, and style. Plus, get answers to more home improvement questions for your next DIY project! - Playground: Play it safe by building a fun backyard playground with kids’ safety in mind. - Generators: New battery technology protects against power outages. - Fences: Good fences make good neighbors, so get tips on putting up the perfect fence.   Q & A: - Tile Flooring: Why is there condensation on the ceramic tile floor? Annette gets advice on reducing the indoor humidity that’s bringing warm air against the cold floor. - Electrical: Steve is concerned that none of his kitchen outlets are grounded, but it’s not certain. A good electrician is needed to do an evaluation and identify any issues. - Clothes Closet: Heavy clothes have bowed the rod and pulled the brackets away from the closet wall. Bea learns how to strongly secure the brackets, shelf, and rod. - Patio vs. Deck: Bill is trying to decide between building a concrete patio or a wood deck. They’d be similar in price, but the concrete patio would last much longer. - Tree Roots: Should Lynn worry about the pear tree roots near her house foundation? They shouldn’t pose a problem and she’d see signs of any damage beforehand. - Pool Deck: Howard is painting his concrete pool deck and doesn’t want it to be slippery. He gets tips for prepping the surface and applying an anti-slip coating paint.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get ideas to upgrade your deck with stylish, budget-friendly trends and learn how to add a leak-proof skylight to brighten up your home. Also, discover a new product that can extend your aging roof's lifespan and get answers to more home improvement questions from Money Pit’s expert team in this episode! - Skylights: The sky’s the limit when it comes to installing leak-free skylights to brighten up your home. - Deck Space: Add style to your outdoor living with these affordable trends for backyard deck space. - Roof Repair: Old roofs gain new life with a rejuvenation treatment at a fraction of the cost of roof replacement.   Q & A: - Bathtub Cleaning: Mary gets tips on how to remove bathtub rust stains through light abrasion with an auto rubbing compound. - Duct Cleaning: Is duct cleaning really necessary? It’s generally not needed unless Steve has done some heavy renovation, but we do advise using quality air filters. - Washing Machine: Why is the washing machine making that banging noise? Holly gets tips on leveling the appliance, using anti-vibration pads, and installing a water hammer arrestor. - Toilet Valve: The shut-off valve handle broke off behind Greg’s toilet. We explain how to easily replace it with PEX fittings, even if he needs to cut into the drywall. - Deck Cleaning: Is there a recipe for a solution to clean decks? Nancy learns how to mix a bleach, detergent, and water solution to apply with a stiff brush. - Balcony Railing: Jonas wants to replace his surface-mounted railing with a flush-mounted one, but we don’t think it’s worth removing the gutter to gain such a small amount of space. - Structural Beams: Bill wants to hang a projection screen in his basement, but was surprised to find steel beams in the wall. He gets ideas for what to do next. - Sandbox: Laurie is excited about creating a sandbox for her grandkids, but asks if she should look for an alternative to sand. Sand is not a problem and a cover will protect it from animals and rain. - Windows: Condensation inside Don’s double-pane windows is causing mildew. He’ll need to clean and maintain them until he’s ready to get replacement windows. - Water Pressure: Krista has a shared well but her water pressure is much lower than her neighbor’s. She gets advice on looking for a restriction somewhere in her plumbing.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn why homes built in factories can be better constructed and more energy-efficient than traditional builds. Then, prepare your A/C for summer with our service tips and pre-check methods and simplify painting projects with innovative high-efficiency airless paint sprayers. Plus, get answers to more home improvement questions from DIYers just like you! - Air Conditioning: Be ready to beat the summer heat by testing your air conditioning system. - Factory-Built Homes: Learn why manufactured homes can be better than homes built on-site. - Paint Sprayers: Painting projects are made easy with new, high-efficiency paint sprayers.   Q & A: - Heating: How to heat a converted laundry room and bedroom? Paul’s most affordable option would be an electric baseboard heater with a timer, but we’ve got other ideas, too. - Countertops: Carolyn didn’t expect dull spots on her quartz countertops, but it’s an absorbent surface that needs to be maintained and polished every two or three years. - Roofing: Condensation is staining Kent’s bathroom ceiling. He should check and replace the rubber boot around the roof vent before priming and repainting the ceiling. - Unused Pool: Dorothy’s not using her huge inground pool and wants to use the space. We explain the steps involved in disconnecting the systems and filling the pool with dirt. - Painting: Edward is painting the bathroom but is worried about harmful fumes around his baby. We offer tips for airing out the house and using safer solvent-based products. - HVAC: Amber’s loft is always much warmer than the rest of the house. She should reverse the direction of the ceiling fans to pool cool air from downstairs and consider installing a supplemental split ductless system. - Flooring: How can you restore the shine to dull marble floors? Ron gets recommendations for some good DIY products that clean and polish stone surfaces. - Smoke Odors: The previous owner left stinky smoke odors behind! Courtney has done just about everything, but she can also try sealing the subfloors or using a filtration system and an electronic air cleaner.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we explore a special type of roof that helps keep your home cool. We'll also discuss the buzz around backyard honeybee hives and, if you're hosting an open house, how to stage your home to attract buyers. Whether it's a renovation, repair, or home décor, listen in for more expert tips and inspiration to help with your next home improvement project! - Bee Hives: Backyard bee hives are all the buzzy for producing homemade honey and beeswax. - Cool Roofs: Keep cool and save on energy costs with cool roof technology. - Home Staging: Market your home to interested buyers with these important home staging tips.   Q & A: - Lighting: Pete wants to install can lights on the first floor. An electrician would be more experienced in fishing wiring through the ceiling, laying out the lights, and getting power to the lines and switches. - Siding: What is the best way to seal and protect cedar siding on Lynne’s old house? Boiled linseed oil or a solid color stain are two good options for UV and weather protection. - Level Flooring: A crack in the concrete slab has widened and the floor is dipping. Rachel needs a structural engineer to see if it’s a structural or cosmetic issue. - Busted Plumbing: A rogue raccoon busted the water line! We advise Brian to hire a public adjuster to have the repairs covered by insurance and done correctly. - Basement Water: Mary paid a lot of money to a shameless contractor after getting water in her basement. We offer tips on improving the exterior drainage to keep things dry. - Dimmer Lights: Richard is looking for a floor or table lamp with a dimmer switch. He can buy a regular lamp instead and plug it into a dimmer switch outlet.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we'll uncover how to find and eliminate hidden germs in your home. Then, learn about a home improvement company dedicated to finding permanent homes for children in foster care. And if your landscaping is giving you a headache, we've got tips on choosing hassle-free shrubs. We’re here to help with all your DIY projects, so listen in for more answers to your home improvement questions! - House Cleaning: Keep your home healthy and clean by finding germs that are hiding in plain sight. - Safe Homes: This home improvement company is dedicated to finding safe, forever homes for foster kids. - Easy-Care Shrubs: Sprucing up your outdoor space is easy with low-maintenance shrubs.   Q & A: - Garage Construction: Sandy needs suggestions for building a new garage. An architect could design ideas that fit her home and the surrounding neighborhood. - Electrical Wiring: Gary wants to change one existing light to two fixtures on either side of the bathroom mirror. It’s an easy project for an electrician to split the wiring. - Floor Stains: There are pet stains and odors in Merilyn’s wood floors. She gets tips on how to sand, vacuum, stain, and finish the floors to hide the stains and seal the odors. - Insulation: White moldy areas are appearing on the radiant barrier insulation in Ed’s attic. We explain to Ed why it’s not very effective and could be trapping moisture. - Tile Floor: Is there a way to fill cracks and chips in a tile floor and refinish the surface? It may not be worth the time and effort, so Margaret should consider replacing the tile or installing a laminate floor over it. - Cracked Bathtub: Tim’s new bathtub already has two cracks. It’s a big job to remove it, but using a fiberglass repair product from an auto shop could buy him some time. - Home Addition: Joan wants to add an enclosed space over the patio for her cats. It’s a large project and she should consult a professional to design the proper specifications to build an addition. - GFCI Outlets: John wants to install GFCI bathroom outlets. Rather than remove the existing outlets that are tiled in place, he can make the entire circuit in the electrical panel ground fault-protected.    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get ready for summer with water-saving solutions and outdoor living tips! Discover new plumbing fixtures to effortlessly reduce water usage, expand your living space by creating a dry, clean area under your deck, and get top picks for lawnmowers. Whatever your home improvement project may be, listen in for all the advice you need! - Saving Water: Saving water is made easier with water-saving plumbing fixtures. - Underdeck Space: Find out how to gain dry, usable living and storage space under an elevated deck. - Lawn Mowers: New rankings reveal the best lawnmowers that make the cut with Consumer Reports.   Q & A: - Lawn Care: Just one area of grass is not growing or getting green. Deb should have soil samples tested to see if that part of the lawn needs different seeds, fertilizer, or care. - Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees are boring through Steve’s wood joists. He can either treat the surface and seal the holes or replace the wood with synthetic material that the bees won’t eat. - HVAC: Carl is concerned about recent changes in HVAC refrigerants. We have details about the new eco-friendly alternatives that are replacing Freon. - Bath Remodel: Who should Macey contact to do a bathroom remodel? We suggest finding experienced professionals and getting multiple estimates for the exact work she wants done. - Peeling Paint: Paint is peeling on Ray’s ceiling, probably due to adhesive problems from prior layers of paint. He must use a paint stripper before priming and repainting. - Structural Issue: Erin thinks her slab house needs to be releveled. A structural engineer can diagnose the problem and how it should be fixed. - Cabinets: Are there cabinets made with non-chemical materials? Steven should look for cabinetry that meets CARB 2 standards. - Sump Pump: Renee’s sump pump wasn’t coming on, then filling with water and making gurgling sounds. We have tips about air in the line and how to improve the drainage around the house. - Squeaky Floor: Will Donna’s squeaky floor be an issue for a homebuyer? It’s not a structural issue but it is annoying, so we explain how 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show is all about making the most of your home's spaces! First, we'll discuss choosing durable, low-maintenance kitchen countertops. Then, we'll explore making use of the area under your second-story deck with under-deck drainage systems. And if your asphalt driveway is worn out, we have expert replacement tips. Save time, money, and effort with answers to these and other home improvement questions! - Countertops: Busy kitchens require the most durable countertop materials that are easy to maintain. - Underdeck Space: Make the most of unused living space under your second-story deck. - Driveway Repair: Get tips on replacing an asphalt driveway that’s showing wear and tear.   Q & A: - Deck Stain: Pauline’s stained deck is already looking worn again. She should apply an oil-based primer and a solid deck stain with more pigmentation that will last longer. - Garage Door: There’s dry rot around the garage door’s wood header. Dave needs to build a temporary wall to hold up the roof while replacing the header. - Skylight: Will installing a skylight interfere with viewing the TV screen clearly? Ginny’s tubular fixtures will point light downward, so it shouldn’t be an issue. - Driveway Repair: Scott’s old aggregate stone driveway is starting to crumble. It would be hard to repair that rough surface and we suggest replacing the driveway instead. - Patio Furniture: Lucy needs to clean the patio furniture that was left outside. She gets tips on the best way to clean different surfaces and materials. - Windows: Edwin is renovating his 1875 post and beam house and needs advice on keeping the aesthetics of the old windows with energy-efficient replacement windows. - Ridge Vents: Are ridge vents really necessary? Mary doesn’t like them, but learns they’re doing what’s needed to provide ventilation and prevent moisture in the attic. - Water Heater: Mary can’t replace the electric water heater with a tankless model, but she can switch to an electric heat pump water heater instead. - French Doors: Is there a way to seal the bottom of French doors to keep rainwater out? David should concentrate on solving his drainage problems to divert water 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show shines a spotlight on home safety! First, learn what to check to prevent deck collapses, and then discover how to protect your home’s water quality. Finally, find out why metal roofs are your best bet against severe weather. Get answers to these and other home improvement questions on this Money Pit episode! - Deck Collapse: Safeguard your outdoor fun with a five-step DIY checkup to avoid a deck collapse. - Water Quality: Learn how to maintain high-quality water that’s clean, safe, and tastes great. - Metal Roofs: Ride out the storm with a metal roof that stands up to severe weather.   Q & A: - Crown Molding: Tracy has questions on how to install crown molding. It’s a difficult carpentry job but using DIY foam molding makes it easy to cut, install, and paint over. - Foundation Moisture: Glen found water in his crawlspace and gets tips to improve the grading, gutters, and downspouts to keep water away from the foundation. - Water Heater: It takes too long for the water to get hot because of the distance between the water heater and Loretta’s bathroom. We suggest installing a hot water recirculating system with a timer. - Chimney: Nothing has solved a persistent damp spot on the bedroom wall next to Richard’s chimney. He should try using a vapor-permeable masonry sealer on the brick. - Renovating Tips: Kay needs advice on what to check in a home that’s been vacant. She should start by hiring a home inspector to give an overall assessment of what’s needed. - Smoke Odors: John’s tenant smoked and the smell permeates everything! We’ve got advice for deep cleaning and sealing all the surfaces to get rid of the smoke odor. - Patio Surface: What kind of base should Linda use for a combination patio and carport? A reinforced poured concrete slab would be the most permanent and durable. - Pool Deck: What’s the best way to repair cracks around a concrete pool deck? We recommend that Michael use a DIY crack seal product from Quikrete. - Mold on Brick: Is there an easy way to remove mold from brick without damaging the mortar? Judy can spray on a slow-working mildewcide and let it sit to clean the mold.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this home improvement episode, find out what defines a truly green product, get tips on designing a room that grows with your child, and discover how to create a stunning countertop in a weekend without breaking the bank. Plus, get answers to questions from homeowners just like you for more DIY projects! - Green Products: Go beyond the labels and learn what defines truly green products for your home. - Kids’ Rooms: Design space-saving rooms that can adapt to your growing kids. - Countertops: Create a marvelous marble countertop in a weekend.   Q & A: - Basement Flooring: Colin’s basement concrete floor is uneven. He could use a floor leveling compound but it’s possible to compensate slight unevenness with new flooring. - Hot Water: It takes a while for the water to get hot. There are advantages to a tankless water heater, but Sharon should consider a bypass valve to recirculate hot water through the pipes. - Exterior Crawlspace: Chad needs to seal the crawlspace under his modular home against animals. We’ve got tips for securely installing PVC lattice to a frame structure. - Squeaky Floor: Nancy learns how to stop squeaks in the floor by using long drywall screws alongside nails in the subfloor to prevent movement. - Roof Leaks: Ice dams under the roof shingles caused leaks in Mary’s home. The damage should be covered by insurance and she needs to contact a public adjuster to be sure the repairs are done right. - Water Heater: Mike needs to keep draining residue from his water heater. He gets tips on how to speed up the process and buying an affordable water softener. - Bathroom Leak: There’s water on the ceiling from the upstairs bathroom. Kirsten should check the shower pan and wall tiles for cracks or gaps in the seams or grout. - Crawlspace: How should the surface of a crawlspace be sealed? Keith should overlap plastic sheeting on the dirt and up the walls to prevent moisture from seeping up.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, get expert advice on creating a simple landscaping plan to transform your outdoor space, maximizing your deck's potential by installing an under-deck drainage system, and cleaning delicate window shades without risking damage. Plus, stay tuned for answers to more home improvement questions to create your best home ever! Window Shades: Get tips on how to clean delicate window shades without damaging them. Underdeck Drainage: Add dry, usable outdoor space with an underdeck drainage system. Landscaping: Design a stunningly simple landscaping plan for your home, lifestyle, and budget.   Q & A: Driveway Repair: Water is pooling in sunken areas of the driveway. Joe can use a blacktop patching product and then reseal the whole surface. Moisture: To reduce moisture building up on interior walls, Laura should run the A/C consistently, direct bathroom and kitchen vents outside, improve exterior drainage, and install a whole-house dehumidifier. Creaky Floor: Kevin’s floor is creaking under the tiles. He gets info on how to find the movement from the basement and use shims to tap into the floor gaps from underneath. Noisy Pipes: There’s a loud banging in the basement whenever the water is used. Nicole learns it may be water hammer or the well pump going on and off. Electrical Wiring: Jay’s electrician said he could just split the circuits and use an arc fault breaker instead of replacing all the old wiring. We confirm that’s excellent advice. Roofing: Should Tina remove the old roof shingles before installing a metal roof? We agree it’s a bad idea to leave the shingles because of the heat factor. Concrete Stains: Is there a way for Garland to remove battery acid stains on his garage floor? We recommend covering the garage floor with epoxy paint. Wall Paint: Diane wants advice on applying a Venetian plaster effect to her walls. It’s a unique look that may take practice and we suggest using it on a focal wall. Sump Pump: Bob has questions about a sump pump that runs through the carport. He should install a check valve so water can’t back up and a curtain drain to direct the 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get ready to level up your home and garden game as we discuss the advantages of building a greenhouse for year-round gardening and understanding the distinctions between cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants to keep your home clean and germ-free. You’ll also get advice on testing and adjusting your soil for a lush, green lawn that will be the talk of the neighborhood. Don't miss out on these and lots more essential home improvement solutions! - Greenhouse: Get tips for building a backyard greenhouse for a year-round crop of fresh vegetables. - Cleaning Products: Clean, sanitize, deodorize: which cleaning product does what? - Lawn Care: Test your soil for a lush lawn that will make the neighbors green with envy.   Q & A: - Well Water: Susan’s not sure if she needs a water softener or a filter for her well water. Getting a complete water test done will show what kind of treatment is needed. - House Beams: Joel wants to remove the center load-bearing beam so he can lower the ceiling, but it’s one of the most difficult projects to do so the roof won’t collapse. - Chimney Vent: Esther’s new furnace was vented outside instead of through the chimney. She gets advice on how to have a direct duct outside for her water heater, too. - Basement Smells: There’s a persistent musty smell in Ted’s finished basement. We recommend installing a whole-house dehumidifier and improving the outside drainage. - Wood Kitchen Walls: Janet gets some ideas on how to give her kitchen a rustic country style with beadboard, wood plank, or vinyl plank flooring adhered to the walls. - Water Heater: Some strange sounds are coming from James’ water heater! We discuss why pipes make noise as the water heats up and how to look for potential leaks. - Old Electrical Wiring: Judy was told that her old knob and tube wiring is not a concern. It’s actually unsafe and can’t be grounded, so it should be disabled and replaced. - Installing a Bathroom: Phillip has a poured concrete house and wants to install a bathroom. There are two ways it can be done because of the solid walls and floors.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today's episode, we've got you covered from garden to garage! We’ll guide you through tips for building a sturdy stone garden wall, ensuring your bathroom re-tiling lasts with proper underlayment, and safely storing flammable liquids to avoid garage fire hazards. Tune in for essential advice to upgrade and safeguard your home! - Flammable Liquids: Storing flammable liquids safely is key to avoiding fire hazards in your garage. - Garden Walls: Get rock-solid tips for building a stone garden wall that lasts. - Bathroom Tiles: Learn essential steps for waterproofing bathroom tiles to avoid damage and moisture.   Q & A: - Shower Doors: Is there a way to repel water and prevent spots on glass shower doors? We recommend a product Randy can use, plus a squeegee to wipe down the surface. - House Odors: A funky odor in the house is getting worse. Donna already cleaned everything and took up the carpets, but priming and painting the walls may help. - Toilet Stains: Axel has been trying to remove a stubborn ring stain in the toilet. A gentle pumice stone can remove it, along with a hydrochloric acid cleaner. - Firepit: The flame on Steve’s new natural gas firepit isn’t very high. Modifying the gas burner can be dangerous, so he should have a plumber check the gas pressure and contact the manufacturer. - Lighting: Laura’s compact fluorescent bulbs keep blowing out. They should last a long time, so they may be defective and she should consider buying LED bulbs instead. - Backsplash: Bills is looking for the best material for a backsplash behind his stove. A solid stone surface that’s cut around the exhaust fan would be easy to install and clean. - Shower Plumbing: Lynne’s shower is leaking through the ceiling below. We share tips on checking for a crack in the shower pan and caulking all the seams and fixtures. - Insulation: Does Mark need to ventilate his attic after adding spray foam insulation? We’ll explain why he doesn’t need additional ventilation. - Basement Floor: Amy’s not sure how to cover the dirt basement floor in her farmhouse. She should test for radon first before deciding what comes next. - Pool Deck: Will a concrete pool deck crack under the weight of an aquaponic garden tank? It weighs about as much as several people, so Patrick’s deck should be okay. - Electrical Panel: We have answers for Heidi, who has questions about a new electrical panel that was installed outside, with a subpanel inside.   - Garage Doors: Is there a way to restore the finish of faded aluminum garage doors? Marlene can paint them after sanding the surface and applying a metal primer.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Transform your home and garden with expert tips on today's episode! We start with strategies for optimizing your garage workspace for DIY projects, then serve up ideas for creating your own pizza garden to grow your favorite fresh toppings. Finally, learn the importance of deep cleaning your washing machine from dirt and odors and hear answers to more home improvement questions! - Washing Machine: Put a new spin on laundry day by deep cleaning your washing machine to banish dirt and odors. - Gardening: If you want to spice up your gardening projects, nothing tops growing a delicious pizza garden. - Garage Space: Get tips for creating an efficient garage workspace to make every DIYer more productive.   Q & A: - Porch Railing: Karen wants to add a railing to her porch and is concerned about it being sturdy enough. She gets tips on using the right screws and where to attach it. - Insulation: Mike’s old house has no insulation inside the brick walls. He should seal any drafts, add attic insulation, and install rigid insulation board and new drywall inside. - Popcorn Ceiling: Removing a popcorn ceiling can be a mess, but Laurie gets suggestions on how to wet and scrape the surface without damaging the ceiling. - Water Softener: Ellie seeks advice on replacing her water softener that’s outside the home. We recommend testing the water and getting a model that’s rated for exterior use. - Landscaping: There are hills and sinkholes in the lawn above the septic tank. Heavy equipment may crush the pipes, so Chris should use a wheelbarrow to add topsoil and level out the lawn. - Windows: The original windows in a historic home are very drafty. Jim can add weatherstripping or temporary caulk, or find a company that makes replacement windows to match the old style. - Microwave: The light under Frieda’s old microwave above the stove keeps burning out. We discuss several possible causes, but it may be time to replace the appliance. - Plumbing Odors: Sewer odors are coming from the bathroom sink, tub, and shower. Gary gets tips on how to scrub the drains with oxygenated bleach to clean out the biogases and bacteria. - Hardwood Floor: Jennifer is installing hardwood flooring and gets information on placing it parallel to the longest walls and measuring the room to avoid narrow cuts.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we cover a trio of crucial home improvement topics. First, we share top painting tips to achieve a flawless finish. Next, we discuss how to maintain healthy indoor air quality without sacrificing energy efficiency. Finally, learn about installing a front door that looks great and increases your home's value and security. Tune in for these and other answers to questions from homeowners like you! - Painting Tips: Avoid painting predicaments by brushing up on these tips to paint like a pro. - Ventilation: Energy efficiency is great, but can your home be too airtight for healthy living? - Front Doors: Learn how to install a welcoming front door that provides curb appeal, value, and security to your home. Q & A: - Garage Trim: Mice and water are coming in through gaps in the corners of Dawn’s garage doors. We recommend replacing the vertical pieces of weatherstripping to seal the spaces. - Bathroom Renovation: Is it a good idea to flip the toilet and the shower on a cement slab? Scott learns it’s a massive renovation job that’s not worth the expense and effort. - Water Quality: The cold water from only one faucet has a sickening taste. Nancy should report it to the water company and have the water tested. - Ceiling Drywall: Kenny can see the outline of the studs behind his ceiling. It’s called ghosting and he gets tips on what causes it and how to hide it. - Wood Flooring: George gets advice on installing hardwood flooring in his family room, including how to prep the subfloor and paying attention to the pattern of the boards. - Electrical Outlets: When Belinda installs new GFCI outlets, do they need their own circuit breakers? We explain why it’s not necessary and how to use an outlet tester. - HVAC: It would be a shame for Steve to remove his efficient and comfortable steam heat radiators, but he can still add a ducted air conditioning system. - Granite Countertops: How often should granite countertops be sealed? Every two or three years is recommended, but Dave can use some recommended DIY products.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this podcast episode, we debunk a popular but misguided lawn care strategy for mowing your grass. We’ll also discuss why metal roofs are winning over homeowners by promising protection for decades, then delve into advancements in hardwood flooring. Tune in for insights on tackling your home improvement projects with expert guidance! - Lawn Care: Follow these mowing tips to ensure a healthy lawn that is a cut above the rest. - Metal Roofs: Steel the show by installing a metal roof for durability, style, and energy efficiency. - Hardwood Floors: Easy-to-install hardwood flooring brings beauty and value to a home.   Q & A: - Brick Adhesive: Debbie is struggling to remove glue around her brick fireplace. There’s no way to do it without ruining the surface, so we suggest installing new plasterboard over the brick. - Attic Ventilation: Paul has a tile roof with gable vents and a roof-mounted AC unit. We discuss his best options for attic ventilation. - Hardwood Floors: What’s the best way to refinish a worn hardwood floor? Joyce gets tips on lightly sanding the surface and applying an oil-based polyurethane. - Plywood Siding: Dennis has T1-11 siding and wants to change it. He can simply install Tyvek and HardiePlank siding right over the old siding. - Exterior Paint: The paint is peeling and flaking off Donna’s cedar shingles. She must pressure wash and scrape off the old layers of paint, then use an oil-based primer for good adhesion before repainting the cedar siding. - Sink Finish: Matthew has one sink flange that corrodes every time it’s replaced. It’s an odd problem that may be caused by the water acidity and the quality of the flange finish. - Insect Screening: Flies are coming in under the edges of a barn roof. Diane should install screening over any vent openings and have a professional apply pesticide for flies. - Heated Tile Floor: How should electric heating be installed under a tile bathroom floor? Tim gets advice on subfloor options and piping for the heated floor system. - Roof Vents: Debra has ceiling stains directly under the roof vent pipes. It’s easy to replace any flashing and rubber boots that are deteriorated and cracked.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this one-stop shop for all things home improvement, we’ll tackle the war against bathroom germs, explore the art of building a paver patio that lasts, reveal expert tips for restoring rotted wood, and answer more questions from callers. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice homeowner, this episode has something for everyone! - Bathroom Germs: Experts are flush with ideas on the best way to stop the spread of bathroom germs. - Paver Patio: Get some tricks of the trade on building a paver patio that will last for years to come. - Rotted Wood: When wet weather leads to rotted wood, learn how to restore and rebuild the damaged areas.   Q & A: - Windows: Amy thinks her windows are discolored from water damage, but it’s probably normal fading from sun and rain. Sanding and exterior polyurethane can restore the finish. - Shower Plumbing: The shower temperature changes whenever the toilet flushes. Brad needs to install a pressure balance valve to regulate the mix of hot and cold water. - Pest Control: Ick! Kelly wants to get rid of bugs, slugs, and rodents. She must seal any gaps, remove any food that may attract rodents, and hire a professional for general pesticide treatment. - Mortar Repair: The mortar is breaking apart between the doorframes and limestone of Steve’s home. He gets tips on removing the loose mortar and how to repoint those areas. - Tree Roots: Large tree roots in Kevin’s yard are a problem. We suggest covering them with natural landscaping solutions like mulch, soil, or groundcover plants. - Electrical Outlets: Pat has questions about installing GFCI outlets in his kitchen. They’re good to have and we explain how they work and how he can do it. - Sealing Concrete: Past flooding left cracks in Bonnie’s basement floor. She can use silicone caulk to seal them and add a two-part epoxy product over the surface. - Plumbing Noise: Robert’s new faucet is making a trumpet sound! He get tips on checking the washer and aerator for obstructions before having to replace the faucet. - Ventilation: After reshingling his roof, Ken gets advice about removing the power vent, adding ridge vents, and completely opening the soffits to improve ventilation.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get the practical advice you need in this episode, with tips on constructing a raised garden bed, optimizing garage space, and troubleshooting vacuum issues. From gardening to storage to cleaning, we’ve got tips to help homeowners with these and other home improvement questions! - Raised Garden Bed: Get tips on building a raised garden bed for the perfect DIY project. - Garage Space: A new survey reveals how homeowners are optimizing garage space in creative ways. - Vacuum Repairs: Find out what to do when your vacuum cleaner’s suction sucks.   Q & A: - Crack Over Stairs: Anne is worried that cracks above her stairs are caused by her house shifting. She needs a home inspector who specializes in structural issues. - Drain Pipe: The cast iron drain pipe under Dan’s basement floor keeps clogging. He can get it relined with a fiberglass sleeve without having to remove the pipe. - Rusty Bathtub: Can an old rusty cast iron tub be restored? Margaret could have it reglazed by a professional, but it may be better to just replace the tub. - Window Replacement: What should be included in the cost of window replacement? Michael gets advice on quality indicators, measurements, and more. - Basement HVAC: Mark has questions about the radiant heating above his basement ceiling. We’ve got suggestions about drop ceilings and disconnecting the heating. - Shower Plumbing: Jackie is replacing an old tub with a tile shower. She’ll need to have a plumber reroute a new diverter valve. - Garage Door: Scott’s garage doors freeze when snow melts off the cars. New rubber gaskets that won’t stick to ice and installing garage floor tiles that drain will help the problem. - Hardwood Floors: What is the best way to maintain new hardwood floors? We’ve got concerns about steam cleaning and suggest checking the manufacturer’s instructions.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show has tips for crafting your perfect outdoor living space, asking key questions before hiring a contractor, and choosing the best tile for your next project. Whether your DIY project is indoors or outdoors, we’ve got the answers you need for all your home improvement questions! - Outdoor Living: Follow these 5 tips for creating the perfect outdoor living space. - Hiring Contractors: Choose wisely by asking these 5 key questions before hiring a home improvement professional. - Choosing Tile: Learn how to pick the best type of tile for your project.   Q & A: - HVAC Water: Gail’s boiler provides both the heat and the hot water. She needs to find out how to set the mixing valve so the shower water won’t be too hot. - Bathroom Vent: Mike wonders about connecting his bathroom fan vent to the plumbing vent. He can’t do that, but we’ve got tips on how to run the exhaust vent to the outside. - Plumbing: A cracked waste pipe flooded the basement. Helen should file an insurance claim and hire a remediation company to clean up the sewage damage. - Foundation Cracks: Pat has multiple big cracks in his foundation walls. He’ll need a structural engineer to address the problem and design the proper repairs. - Odors: Mason can’t find the source of odors in his home. We have a few ideas and give him tips on steam cleaning the carpets and priming and painting the walls to seal them. - Textured Wall Prep: Dave wants to tile over a textured bathroom wall. Sanding the surface will give him better adhesion to glue the tile right over it. - Kitchen Cabinet Lazy Susan: The top shelf of an old kitchen cabinet carousel has dropped. Marge gets advice on how to find parts and try to repair it.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn how to conquer clutter with a storage shed, decide between window repair versus replacement, and get expert advice and resources from a DIY guru and a leading retailer. Plus, we’ve got answers to lots more questions for all your home improvement projects! - Storage Shed: Shed your outdoor clutter by building a backyard storage shed. - Window Repair: This checklist helps you see clearly whether to repair or replace your windows. - DIY Expert Advice: HGTV star and home improvement retailer offer advice for DIY projects.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. - Mold: Karen has gotten some bad advice about mold on the basement walls. She must have samples tested to discover the correct mitigation plan to treat the mold. - Water Heater: What’s the best kind of water heater for a large family? Mike should consider a tankless water heater to save energy and provide hot water instantly. - Drafty Windows: Cold wind is blowing through Joyce’s apartment windows. She can seal the drafts by using shrink film or a temporary caulk. - Jacuzzi Drain: A caustic cleaner burned the tub surface when Barry tried to clear the clogged drain. We have suggestions for different products that are better to use. - Front Door: Rick just wants to replace his front door rather than the entire transom. We discuss the challenges and carpentry needed for the exact entry door replacement. - Foundation Repair: Brenda’s poured cement basement walls are starting to crumble. She should hire a structural engineer to inspect the foundation and determine the best repair specifications.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get budget-friendly apartment decorating ideas, add curb appeal with low-cost landscaping tips, and avoid the risks of hiring uninsured contractors with inspiration and information on today’s home improvement episode! Plus, listen in for answers to additional caller questions on a range of DIY projects. - Apartment Décor: Get affordable apartment décor ideas to fit your budget and save your security deposit. - Front Yard Landscaping: Create a welcome entry and add curb appeal with low-cost landscaping tips. - Uninsured Contractors: If you’re hiring a contractor, protect yourself from liability by confirming they’re insured.   Q & A: - Floor Tile Grout: Grout keeps chipping out from one area of Karen’s tile floor. She needs to remove it again and check to see if the surface is unstable. - Red Cedar Roof: Phillip loves the way red cedar shingles age on other houses, but there’s no way to be sure how his own cedar shingles will darken over time unless he stains them. - Structural Support: Trish wants to open up her kitchen, but it’s a big project to remove the load-bearing wall. We offer ideas on other ways to make the rooms look larger. - Drywall Cracks: It’s not uncommon to have drywall cracks over doorways, but Brian needs advice on how to sand, tape, and spackle the wall so the cracks won’t return. - Pouring Concrete: After cutting down a tree and grinding the stump, Bobbie wants to extend her sidewalk. She should rake out the sawdust and reinforce the hole with stone before pouring cement so it won’t crack. - Fireplace: Two fireplaces and two chimneys are bringing smoke into Mike’s house. He should ask a chimney expert about improving the chimney draft. - Wood Bathroom Décor: Should Melanie extend her untreated rustic knotty pine walls into her bathroom? It’s not a good idea, but there are better options that look like wood. - Garbage Disposer: What size garbage disposer should Brandon get? We recommend a 1/2 to 3/4 HP model that he can install with basic plumbing and electrical skills. - Radon: Should Sandra have her home tested for radon? We discuss using a DIY test, how to read the results, and guidelines for remediation if it’s needed.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: We’re sharing springtime secrets in this show, with tips for planting bulbs for a beautiful garden, breaking free of stuck windows to let the fresh air in, and protecting trees and shrubs with proper mulching. Spring forward and get home improvement info to last all year as we answer your timely questions! - Spring Bulbs: Think flower power and plan ahead for spring by planting bulbs now. - Stuck Windows: Break free of stuck windows with these easy tips. - Mulch: Learn the right way to use mulch for insulating trees and shrubs.   Q & A: - New Deck: Does Theresa really need to wait before staining her new wood deck? We explain why it’s necessary to allow fresh lumber to dry out and season before staining. - Flooring: What kind of flooring can David use over his concrete slab? Engineered hardwood, engineered vinyl plans, and laminate are all good floating floor options. - Cleaning Corian: Sharon’s porous Corian countertop is getting stained from water from the sink. We recommend some soft cleansers that she can try for this common problem. - Water Heater: An old electric water heater is starting to leak and David is thinking about a tankless model. He should consider getting more efficient natural gas installed or using an electric heat pump water heater. - Concrete Repair: Annie’s concrete front porch is crumbling, but there are Quikrete products that can adhere to the old concrete and provide a smooth and durable surface. - Sewer Pipe: Linda is worried about replacing a cast iron sewer pipe that’s corroded and cracked. We assure her that any cracks can be easily sealed with silicone caulk. - Grout Cleaning: How can Joe clean the ceramic tile kitchen grout? He gets tips on using grout cleaners and grout strippers. - Floor Nails: Tammy has one floor nail that keeps popping up! It’s a common problem but easy to solve by removing the nail and replacing it with a trim screw. - Water Heater: Are stains coming from Kim’s old water heater or from the water line? It does need to be replaced, and we give her some efficient options to choose from.     ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get tips on safeguarding your yard against wildlife damage, preserving your leftover paint for future projects, and avoiding water damage by checking your gutters in today’s featured topics! Plus, get answers to even more home improvement questions for your next DIY adventures! - Wildlife Damage: Get critter control tips to prevent wildlife damage to your yard and garden. - Unused Paint: Extend the life of leftover paint by storing it the right way. - Checking Gutters: Avoid water damage by checking gutters to ensure they’re flowing freely.   Q & A: - Insects: With earwigs under the siding and crickets in the basement, Tara needs to call a pest control professional to apply pesticides to solve both problems. - Countertops: Dave gets tips on removing his kitchen sink and reinforcing the wood supports under the countertop. - Driveway Drainage: Water is pooling in Dot’s driveway. We have advice on installing a curtain drain along the side of the driveway to redirect the water. - Painting: Joyce wants to cover smoke damage from a propane fireplace. She should first clean the surfaces well with TSP, then use an oil-based primer and latex paint. - HVAC Water: There’s no hot water coming through Frank’s baseboard heating. An HVAC contractor should check the temperature sensor and the circulator controls. - Basement Moisture: The concrete block walls in Nick’s basement continue to absorb moisture, but improving the drainage around the foundation will solve the problem.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, homeowners get advice on how to ensure their drinking water is safe, how to plan the right kind of fence, and how to save money on laundry day! With tips on everything from repairs to renovations and everything in between, we’re here to answer all your home improvement questions! - Water Quality: Determining whether your drinking water is safe is a matter of pour judgement. - Planning a Fence: Good fences make good neighbors as long as you plan them properly. - Laundry Tips: Learn how to clean up on savings with efficient laundry tips.   Q & A: - Gardening: Where should you locate a raised garden bed? Cynthia should plant her garden in full sun, on the side of the house with southern exposure. - Hardwood Floor Damage: There’s a swollen area where water leaked onto Heather’s hardwood floor. It would be hard to match the stain, but she can use some of the original flooring from a hidden area to replace the damaged piece. - Cedar Walls: Cedar walls in Brian’s home have darkened around his pictures. He can sand and stain the walls or simply hide the discoloration with similar wall hangings. - Flies: Ick! Karen has cluster flies coming from the heat registers in her floor. They’re common, but we suggest hiring a pest control professional who can use the right pesticides. - Roof Replacement: Mark gets tips about installing metal roofing on his low-slope roof. - HVAC Duct Cleaning: Is it worth having your HVAC ducts cleaned? We explain why it’s more important for Sherry to invest in good-quality filters and replace them regularly.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: How can you extend your outdoor space, upgrade yard hydration, and improve indoor air quality? Learn about building a backyard deck, installing a rainwater collection system, and making the most of your vent fans in today’s home improvement episode, plus more tips to create your best home ever!  - Backyard Deck: Get your outdoor living space all decked out by building a backyard deck. - Rainwater Collection: Make every drop count with a rainwater collection system to hydrate your yard and garden. - Vent Fans: Find out why vent fans are your most overlooked appliances that control moisture and improve air quality.    Q & A: - Floor Drain: Patricia’s garage floor drain is clogged but she can’t remove the grate. We suggest running a drain snake through the side yard access and using a vacuum to clear the grate. - Water Heater: Will an electric heat pump water heater affect the indoor climate? Karl is making the most efficient choice and shouldn’t worry about any negative impact. - Cleaning Grout: Nicole wants to get her bathroom grout white again. She’ll need to use a professional grout cleaner or grout stripper to get it as clean as possible. - Bathtub Remodel: Randy is removing his old tub and installing a handicap-accessible shower. We recommend a line of bathroom systems that can be easily customized. - Popcorn Ceiling: Should you repair or remove a popcorn ceiling that’s pulling away at the edges? Debbie has a few options to choose from. - Composite Decking: If you’re tired of replacing wood deck boards, is composite decking a good alternative? Carl learns why it’s a great, durable choice and easy to do. - Quartz Countertops: Iris gets information about changing her granite countertops to quartz, which costs about the same but is more durable, stain resistant, and easier to maintain. - Emergency Exit: A basement egress window will be too high above the floor. James learns about a line of products that can be installed to adapt to the exterior space. - Bathroom Vent: The bathroom exhaust fan isn’t removing the humidity well. Diane should make sure it clearly vents outside the building and install a humidistat.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show is about cleaning quirks, lush lawns, and illuminating insights. Listen as we discuss the one room we all dread cleaning, dig deep into the secrets of soil, and shed light on exterior lighting. Tune in for expert advice and ideas for all your home improvement questions! - Bathroom Cleaning: It may be spring cleaning season, but this is the one room people most hate to clean. - Lawn Care: Grow a lush lawn by using superior soil. - Exterior Lighting: Add safety, security, and style with a great exterior lightscaping design.   Q & A: - Deck Stain: Should Dawn use a sealant over her solid deck stain? There’s no need to seal the wood surface if she uses a good-quality deck stain. - Replacement Windows: Steve has gotten a wide range of price quotes for replacement windows. We offer tips on choosing the best windows and getting reliable estimates on Angi.com. - Sliding Doors: Moisture and ice are forming in the bottom rail of sliding doors. Sherry gets advice on how to check and adjust the door alignment to seal any gaps. - Patio Addition: Mike has lots of reasons to be concerned about a sunroom that was built over a concrete patio slab. He needs advice from a structural engineer or architect. - Cleaning Countertops: What’s the best way to clean a granite countertop? Janet learns that granite requires regular maintenance and gets suggestions on products to use. - Roof Leak: Josh wants to paint over a water stain in his bathroom ceiling. First, he should replace the rubber gasket and flashing around the roof vent pipe. - Lighting Cords: How can you hide the cords from LED lighting in the bathroom? Patrice has some options for lighting fixtures or can have an electrician run the wires behind the trim work. - Basement Flooring: Is engineered wood flooring alright to install in a basement? Jack can use engineered wood that’s rated for basements or consider laminate flooring. - HVAC Noise: Tammy’s new furnace makes a buzzing noise when it turns on. It could be a bad sign that the breaker box is deteriorating and should be checked by an electrician.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get helpful tips about early spring gardening, efficient garbage disposals, and safe garage storage solutions. From plants to trash to avoiding toxins and clutter, we’ve got answers to these and other questions from homeowners like you! - Spring Gardening: Get ready to spring forward with tips for making your garden grow early in the season. - Garbage Disposals: Cut down on food waste with these garbage disposal options. - Safe Garage Storage: Keep toys and tools away from toxins with safe garage storage.   Q & A: - Kitchen Range: Cindy has a small house with a big stove that burned the kitchen cabinet. She should contact the manufacturer for the proper installation specifications. - House Listing: When selling a house that’s been remodeled, how can you describe the upgrades? Mike gets advice on how to list his home and provide an inventory of improvements. - Electrical and Plumbing: Karen gets tips on how often to check the circuit breakers and how to check for plumbing leaks in her home. - Insulation: What is the best way to insulate a basement? We suggest that Jeff first check the exterior drainage to control moisture and give him three options for insulation. - Bathroom Window: Christina is remodeling and has questions about what to do with a window above her tub. She’s got options for installing a privacy window. - Heated Flooring: How should Kirk install heated flooring for a new house addition? Running it through the fireplace is inefficient, but we have tips on how to do it better. - Drafts: Anne needs to seal the drafts through her windows, floors, and cabinets. Weatherstripping, caulk, and insulation in the floor box beams will stop the drafts.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Learn about laundry, layouts, and longevity on today’s show, as we discuss the best and worst laundry detergents, kitchen layouts that maximize space and functionality, and how the age of your home influences needed repairs. Tune in for all this and more home improvement questions and answers! - Laundry Detergent: If clean laundry is an ongoing drama, you may need to use a better detergent. - Kitchen Design: When updating your kitchen, be sure the layout offers improved functionality. - Home Repairs by Age: Find out how the age of your home can determine when you’re likely to need certain repairs.   Q & A: - Types of Roofing: Should Debbie choose a shingle or metal roof? Metal roofs will last a lifetime, but the ROI will depend upon how long she plans to live in the house. - Driveway Stains: Rubber marks are impossible to remove from an asphalt driveway. Ryan gets some DIY tips to reseal the driveway to cover them up. - Insulation: Old attic insulation is dried out and falling down. Claudia can replace it but should consider installing spray foam insulation in the rafters as a great alternative. - Woodpeckers: Persistent woodpeckers are drilling holes in Bruce’s cedar siding. Tin pie plates, strips of black plastic, and hot sauce are a few ways he may dissuade them. - Hot Water: It takes too long for hot water to get to the kitchen sink and upstairs bathroom, even with a recirculating pump near the water heater. Jim should consider installing a tankless water heater with smart technology. - Lighting: Laurie wants to change an old fluorescent light fixture in the closet to LED and gets details on how to determine the amount of lumens she needs.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Sleep soundly after listening to tips on buying the right mattress at the best price, banishing weeds from your garden, and tackling drywall repairs like a pro. Whether you’re a DIY expert or a novice, you’ll want to hear answers to these and more of our callers’ home improvement questions on this episode! - Buying a Mattress: Rest easy with tips on how to buy the right mattress and when to get the best deals. - Weed Control: Spring is the season for weed warfare, so find out how to eliminate dandelions and other green invaders. - Drywall Repairs: Keep cracks, holes, and nail pops from returning with the right DIY drywall repairs.   Q & A: - Enclosed Porch: Marla wants to enclose an old porch with lots of columns. We suggest having an architect create a design that won’t ruin the look of the house. - Water Heater: Louis wants the best gas water heater that will last a long time. We recommend a more efficient model with an electric ignition or a tankless water heater. - Crawlspace: Should you dig down in a crawlspace to create more room? Sara learns why it’s a bad idea that could undermine the foundation and how to create a Yankee basement. - Plumbing: What is needed to restart water that’s been turned off for a long time? Keith gets step-by-step instructions for turning on the water and checking for plumbing leaks. - Foundation: Brendan’s raised house was sagging and he had it leveled, but questions advice for adding sand. He should be more concerned with managing water around the perimeter to prevent movement. - Elevator: Want to install an elevator in your home? It’s becoming a popular option, and Rosalie will only need to block out a small space with access on each floor. - Home Warranty: Larry calls in with an update on problems he’s had with a new home that weren’t covered by a home warranty and thanks us for giving him good advice. - Flooring Repair: LuAnn needs to repair and replace a floor that was damaged by pets. Before installing a new floor, she must use an oil-based primer to seal the subfloor. - Door Repair: The finger joints are starting to decay on Fred’s glass pane door. We suggest some products he can use to repair the door instead of replacing it.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get tips on aspects of home energy management, from signs it’s time for an electrical upgrade to the nuances between various home heating fuels to ways of sealing and insulating your attic access panels! Plus, we’ve got home improvement advice for callers on a wide range of topics that you’ll want to know! - Electrical Upgrade: Get ready to power up and know when it’s time to get an electrical upgrade. - Heating Options: Learn the differences between oil, gas, propane, and electric heating options. - Attic Access: Prevent energy loss by sealing and insulating your attic access panel.   Q & A: - Shaking Washing Machine: Laura’s washing machine is shimmying on her laminate floor. She should make sure the appliance is level and balanced and use anti-vibration pads under the appliance. - Cleaning Stainless Steel: Tom is frustrated by stains on the stainless steel appliances. They look great but need to be polished regularly with a recommended product. -Pipe Insulation: MaryAnn’s uninsulated laundry room is too cold! We suggest insulating the pipes to avoid freezing and adding a baseboard heater to warm the room. - Heated Floor: David is renovating a brownstone home and gets advice on how to add radiant heating under the floor. - Radon: Is radon a potential hazard in a home built on a slab foundation? The risk is lower, but it would be easy for Kathy to get a DIY radon test kit. - Sewer Odors: There’s an awful sewer odor coming from the shower drain. Gene should use bleach or an oxygenated bleach cleaner to get rid of any bio-gas bacteria. - Insulation Options: What’s the difference between open- and closed-cell spray foam insulation? John learns how to choose which type of insulation to use in his old home. - Floor Tile Cracks: June loves heated flooring and gets information on using a membrane product with a heating system to prevent the ceramic tile floor from cracking. - Structural Support: Alvin’s ranch home is showing signs of serious structural damage. He needs a structural engineer to design the proper repairs to jack up the house. - Smart Thermostat: The thermostat is located in the area of the house that Michelle wants to close off, but she can get a smart thermostat with wireless sensors for each room.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this home improvement episode, we’ll tackle small bathroom makeovers to save space and add style, give tips on selecting the best HVAC filters for optimal air quality, and discuss how driveway markers can enhance safety and curb appeal. Tune in for expert insights and answers to more homeowner questions! - Bathroom Makeover: Make every inch count with a space-saving small bathroom makeover. - HVAC Filters: Breathe easy by choosing the right HVAC filter to clear the air of springtime allergens. - Driveway Markers: Make your house stand out with a driveway marker that adds safety and curb appeal.   Q & A: - Windows: Condensation and foggy windows are signs that the thermal seal is failing on old windows. Ruth would be better off replacing the windows instead of repairing them. - Sliding Doors: Cold drafts are blowing through Anthony’s old sliding glass doors. Newer sliding doors would be better insulated and curtains can block the cold glass. - Countertops: Diane wants to refinish her original Formica laminate countertops We recommend a DIY product that can create the look of a stone surface in a weekend. - Fireplace Moisture: David gets advice on installing flashing so that water from the roof will be diverted around the chimney. - Bath Mat Adhesive: Kimberly can’t remove a mat that’s stuck to the bottom of the tub. WD-40 or a citrus-based adhesive remover may help, but the tub surface could get damaged in the process. - Concrete Repair: Charlie’s painted concrete patio is flaking and pitted. He needs to pressure wash and scrape it first, then repair the concrete before using an epoxy paint.  - Refinishing Old Walls: Susan uncovered wood under the sheetrock of her old home. We’ve got tips on how to sand, stain, and seal the wood with a flat varnish.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: This home improvement episode is all about safety, including common fire hazards associated with fireplaces and stoves, options for safe cleaning products, and the risks of hiring uninsured contractors. Listen to hear more about these and other callers’ questions to keep your home safe, sound, and comfortable! - Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety: Learn how fireplaces and wood-burning stoves can be dangerous causes of house fires. - Safe Cleaning Products: Get tips for choosing cleaning products with safer ingredients. - Uninsured Contractors: Find out how hiring uninsured or unlicensed contractors poses risks that are your responsibility.   Q & A: - Laminate Flooring: The seams in Judy’s Pergo laminate floor are bubbling up, either from moisture or after being installed incorrectly, and the floor will need to be redone. - Gutter Guards: John’s gutter is overflowing, even with gutter guards installed. The water may be running too fast down a steep roof and washing over the guards, but he should check to see if they need to be replaced. - Painting Tile: Can outdated bathroom tile be painted over? Chris gets tips on how to do it, but it may not last long and she may want to decorate around the tile colors for now. - Wet Basement: There is condensation in the outlets and an odor coming from Ed’s basement. We offer info on improving exterior drainage, installing a dehumidifier, and removing carpeting and paneling that are harboring moisture-related bacteria. - Dishwasher Clog: The bottom of the dishwasher fills with water after it runs. Mary needs a plumber to locate the obstruction in the plumbing line. - Blocked Toilet: When Beth flushes the toilet, the water rises to the rim and then goes down slowly. A plumber can clear the partial clog that’s somewhere beyond the drain. - Cracked Concrete: A crack in Mike’s concrete slab floor is not structural, so it can easily be repaired with a cement patching compound. - HVAC Condensation: Gail’s contractor has moisture from her HVAC system dripping directly into the crawlspace. She needs to install a condensate pump to direct the water outside the house. - Structural Insulation: Brad is boxing out the eaves behind the knee wall in an upstairs bedroom and finds out where to install additional insulation.    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we reveal the pro secrets to crystal-clear windows, the benefits of high-efficiency washers and dryers, and the potential of basement bedrooms! If you’re seeking the answers to these or other home improvement challenges from today’s callers, we’re here to help! - Cleaning Windows: Get crystal clear results with tips on the best way to clean windows. - Washers and Dryers: Find out whether high-efficiency washers and dryers are worth the additional cost. - Basement Bedrooms: Adding a basement bedroom can be a good idea, as long as it complies with building safety codes.   Q & A: - HVAC Filters: What kind of filter should Sandra use for her furnace? You get what you pay for, and high-quality filters provide better filtration to trap more allergens. - Cracked Concrete: Roy has a crack in the driveway slab near his garage. Mud jacking will work to replace that area by filling in the low spots and tamping down a solid base. - Countertop Repair: Is there a way to repair scratches in a Corian countertop? Gayla gets info about products to clean and restore the countertop finish, or having the surface lightly sanded and polished. - Water Heater: James noticed moisture inside his water heater, but no leak. It’s probably normal condensation, but we share tips on installing a timer and how to adjust the water temperature. - Fireplace: Keith wants to update the look of his red brick fireplace and hearth. We offer some ideas such as applying a stone veneer, tiles, or paint in complementary colors. - Smoke Odors: A burning pot on the stove created smoke throughout Margie’s home and she can’t get rid of the awful smoke smell. She may need a company that specializes in fire and smoke cleanup. - Gutters: Can the rotted fascia board be removed without having to take apart everything? Derwin can’t avoid it, but it’s a good opportunity to replace the wood with another product. - Wallpaper Removal: Jan found a paper lining behind her wallpaper and is concerned about damaging the sheetrock. If the paper is adhered well, she can add texture over it. - Toilet Stain: Sparky can’t figure out why only one toilet keeps getting a black ring. He can try CLR to clean it, but there may be something different about that toilet’s porcelain finish.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, learn about three kinds of safety tips: keeping kids safe by babyproofing your home, keeping fabrics and surfaces safe from red wine stains, and keeping your back safe by installing a heated driveway to eliminate snow shoveling! Plus, hear answers to a wide range of additional homeowner questions from Money Pit callers! - Child Safety: Baby on the way? Keep kids safe with important tips for babyproofing your home. - Stain Removal: After a merlot mishap or a cabernet crisis, here’s how to remove red wine stains. - Heated Driveways: If you’ve had enough of shoveling snow, you may want to invest in a heated driveway.   Q & A: - Floor Beams: Wendy’s renovating her old house and gets advice on how to add support to the beams and plywood under her kitchen floor. - Driveway Mold: Mold keeps growing in the shady area of the driveway. We suggest a mildewcide product with a residual effect that David can easily apply. - Crawlspace Moisture: Irena’s house is on a slope, with rainwater coming into the crawlspace. We explain how to install a French drain to intercept the runoff and redirect the water around the house. - Heating and Cooling: The upstairs rooms are too hot and the downstairs rooms are too cold! Jessie should check the airflow at all the registers and return ducts, adjust the dampers, and consider adding a supplemental system. - Cleaning Tile: Old bathroom tile has lost its shine. Sherry’s tiles may actually have a matte finish without a glaze, but we have tips for cleaning the tiles to improve their appearance. - Light Dimmers: Why do the lights flicker when they’re dimmed? Tim should make sure the LED bulbs are listed as dimmable and look into a certain line of dimmer switches. - Electrical Spark: Ming’s automatic closet door light sometimes sparks. That’s an immediate fire hazard that needs to be replaced immediately! - Service Contracts: Who’s responsible for water lines that run from the street to your home? Manny shouldn’t be fooled by the scare tactics he gets in the mail for unnecessary service contracts. - Vandalism: A former tenant poured cement down the drains of Bonnie’s rental property! The repairs would be covered by insurance, but that’s vandalism that also warrants criminal charges.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we discuss some helpful homeowner essentials, like how often you should be washing your germy towels, selecting the toughest hardwood flooring, and keeping severe weather worries at bay! Get answers to these and more home improvement questions in our latest podcast episode. - Washing Towels: Find out some dirty secrets about bath towels and how often they should be washed. - Hardwood Floors: Ratings reveal the toughest types of hardwood flooring. - Severe Weather: Homeowners share their leading concerns about severe weather damage.   Q & A: - New Construction: Are there lemon laws for new homes? Tina gets advice on reporting home warranty issues and hiring a home inspector to examine the problems. - Garage Floor Repair: Mike’s got cracks in his slab garage floor. We’ve got tips for using a crack filler and sealer, then recoating the floor to give it a beautiful finish. - Roof Leak: Rain is blowing through the roof dryer vents into Pat’s house. We discuss changing the type of roof vent and how to check the flashing around the vent. - Smart Switches: Phillip is having a hard time finding smart switches to fit the wiring in his home. We suggest a product line that offers sophisticated smart home controls and good tech support. - Wood Siding: What’s the best way to fill gaps in wood siding? Jennifer gets info about using steel wool, caulk, or spray foam insulation before priming and painting the area. - Insulation: When does an old house need more insulation? Barb can add unfaced fiberglass batting on top of and perpendicular to existing insulation that’s flat and sagging. - Home Additions: Matthew wants to increase the square footage of his ranch home. Adding a second floor would probably offer a better ROI than a basement. - Deck Stain: Can Paula stain and seal her deck with one product? Exterior deck stains do both and we recommend choosing a good quality solid stain that will last longer. - Dishwasher Repair: Jackie’s dishwasher stopped drying the dishes and mold is starting to build up. The heating element must have failed, but it may be better to replace the dishwasher than to repair it.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Learn how to insure, restore, and spot more in this episode about avoiding costly renter’s insurance pitfalls, repairing and replacing tiles, and finding termites in your home. All this and much more home improvement help in today’s episode! - Renter’s Insurance: Beware this costly loophole in your renter’s insurance and stay protected. - Replacing Tiles: Get tips for repairing or replacing hard-to-find tiles. - Termites: Learn how to spot termites in any season before they make themselves at home.   Q & A: - Bathroom Ventilation: Lisa’s not sure if her bathroom exhaust fan is working. We suggest asking her HVAC contractor about proper air exchange and installing a humidistat timer. - Foundation: Steve wonders if a solid concrete foundation is better than cinderblock walls, but moisture issues are simple to address with proper drainage outside the home. - HVAC Condensation: Should there be condensation on a high-efficiency HVAC system? Jean should have the HVAC serviced annually and check how it’s supposed to pump out moisture. - Chimney Removal: How hard would it be to remove two abandoned chimneys in John’s old home? It’s a messy project that’s not for the faint of heart, but it can be done. - Mold: Robin is worried about moisture causing mold in her bathroom exhaust vent. It may actually be dirt she’s seeing, but we have tips on running the vent fan longer. - Water Heater: Tony says the cold water line leading into his water heater feels hot, but we think it’s just conductive heat from inside the heater that’s warming the pipe. - Running Toilet: The toilet keeps running several times a day. Patty learns it’s an easy and inexpensive fix to replace the fill and flush valves inside the toilet tank. - Bathroom Grout: Rust from the screws is seeping through the bathroom tile grout. Bill should remove it and replace it with epoxy grout. - Central Air Conditioning: Can a new central air conditioning system be attached to existing ductwork? It depends on the design and size of the home and how far the air needs to travel without wasting energy.     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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Delve into the intricacies of home improvement as we discuss getting the right bang for your buck in lumber purchases, using the best grout cleaning routine, and breaking the ice on frozen garage doors. From measuring mastery to thawing tactics, we've got answers to these and other homeowner questions! - Measuring Lumber: Does the price you pay for lumber really measure up to what you get? - Cleaning Grout: Read between the lines on how to choose the right cleaner for your dirty grout. - De-Icing Garage Doors: Learn how to de-ice a garage door that’s become a frozen fortress.   Q & A: - Dehumidifier: Kayla’s dehumidifier keeps tripping the 100-amp circuit. The problem is with the breaker, not the dehumidifier, but she can easily add a bigger dedicated circuit. - House Settling: Cracks, stuck doors, and popping screws all happening at once may indicate house movement. AJ needs a home inspector or structural engineer to determine whether it’s an active problem. - Rusty Garage Doors: Carolyn gets tips on how to sand, prime, and paint her rusty metal garage doors. - Gutters: Leslie learns a new word for gutters from Eric, who finds out gutters should always be installed, even on a house with a concrete slab. - Sink Refinishing: Debra wants to get rid of the black ring around her drain without having to replace the beautiful sink. We have tips for using cleaners or steel wool. - Insulation: What kind of insulation should be used for the exterior walls of an old home? Blown-in insulation by an experienced installer would be Twan’s best choice. - Bathroom Flooring: Linoleum floor tiles are curling up in Darlene’s bathroom. Adhesive is a temporary fix, but we suggest installing a floating laminate floor over it. - Wheelchair Ramp: Sue needs to prevent ice on a wheelchair ramp without damaging the wood. Calcium chloride, mixed with sand, is effective and less corrosive. - Painting Redwood Siding: David is off to a good start by priming his redwood siding and should use a good quality paint over it as soon as possible. - Roofing: Catherine’s old barn needs a new roof. If the barnboard is continuous and solid, she can install the underlayment and shingles right over it. - Salt in Septic System: Giovanni was told the salt from his water softener is deteriorating his concrete septic tank, but we don’t think that’s very likely.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we tackle a trifecta of home improvement challenges! Discover how to make your fireplace a heat-saving hero, peel away layers of old wallpaper, and unclog drains like a pro. Plus, get answers to additional home improvement questions! - Removing Wallpaper: Removing wallpaper is quicker and easier with these tips. - Fireplace Efficiency: Keep warm without burning money through your fireplace. - Unclogging Drains: Weasel your way to clear drains with this handy tool.   Q & A: - Bathroom Flooring: Besides tile, what kind of flooring is best for bathrooms? Zelda should consider bamboo flooring that’s durable and works well in moist areas. - Water Heater: Jacob’s water is either too hot or too cold. Installing a pressure balance valve will keep the water temperature regulated. - Kitchen Remodeling: Joan gets advice on how to plan a kitchen remodeling project and working with a kitchen designer. - Dehumidifying: Randy wants to reduce the humidity in the crawlspace. He should put down a vapor barrier, check outside drainage, and install an exhaust fan. - Mold Removal: We offer Debra tips on how to clean mold in her bedroom, but first she needs to fix the leak that’s causing it. - Garage Door: A steel garage door is binding, making noise, and unbalanced. It sounds like the roller bearings are worn on one side of Pete’s garage door. - Insulation Noise: Diane’s hearing odd sounds in the house after having blown-in insulation installed. It’s not the insulation, but she’ll need to do some detective work to find the cause. - Ice Dams: To prevent ice dams, Jeff must have a sufficient ventilation area above the roof soffits and should install an ice and water shield. - Crumbling Chimney: An old brick chimney is falling apart and unsafe to use. Kathy gets advice on disassembling the chimney rather than installing a chimney liner.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Learn the secrets to a fresh and inviting home in this episode, as we address the challenge of sink odors, discuss windows to brighten your rooms, and suggest pet-friendly floors that look great. Tune in for these and lots more home improvement inspirations! - Pet-Friendly Floors: Make furry friends feel at home with paws-itively perfect pet-friendly floors. - Transom Windows: These trending transom windows add light where you need it. - Sink Odors: Try these simple solutions for stinky sinks.   Q & A: - Chimney Removal: Steve’s considering removing his brick chimney. It’s a big job, but he gets advice on the steps involved. - Ceiling Repair: Rock lath is discovered under a damaged ceiling. We give Maria tips on how to plaster over it before priming and painting the entire ceiling. - Garage Insulation: Mike wants to warm up his cold garage, but there may not be enough room to add insulation above the ceiling. - Dry Rot: Joan finds what she thinks is dry rot when she pulls up a rug. We explain it may be wet rot that has dried out and decayed, or possibly carpenter ants. - Hard Water: How should hard well water be treated? Greg should first have the water tested for contaminants and then try adding a recommended system to treat hard water. - Countertop Noise: Sudden loud noises from the countertop are making Nadine jump! They may be caused by the expansion and contraction of walls or plumbing. - Replacing Insulation: When should insulation be replaced? If Stewart’s old insulation is flat or saggy instead of fluffy, it’s time to remove and replace it or add more. - Windows: Are triple-pane windows better than double-pane? Double-pane windows should be fine, and Jane Ellen gets tips on ENERGY STAR ratings to look for. - GFCI Outlet: Peter thinks his GFCI outlet has gone bad, but it may actually be tripping because of a short in the circuit that an electrician should investigate. - Garage Doors: The garage door is shimmying and not closing properly. Sounds like the door rollers are failing and we suggest that Nancy replace the door and door opener.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Enjoy some home budget bliss as we discuss how to control maintenance and repair costs, get the look of expensive stone countertops at an affordable price, and do a home remodeling project with the best ROI! Save time, money, and stress as we answer these and other home improvement questions you’ll want to know. - Home Maintenance Costs: Avoid unpleasant surprises by setting a budget for home maintenance and repairs. - Stone Countertops: Get the luxe look of stone countertops at a fraction of the cost. - Remodeling ROI: Find out which home improvement project delivers the highest ROI.     Q & A: - Door Replacement: Old French doors have developed wood rot at the bottom and repairing them is a challenge. Fran should look at getting a new fiberglass door. - Removing a Wall: Martin wants to remove a main support wall between rooms. It can be done, but this is a big project that needs a professional to avoid disaster. - Garage Floor: Someone made Kathleen doubtful about installing an epoxy garage floor. We assure her that epoxy flooring is designed to be durable and weather-resistant. - HVAC Vent Ducts: What’s the best way to hide HVAC vents that run across a finished basement ceiling? Jim should look into beautiful new drop ceiling designs that will provide easy access when needed. - Basement Odor: Persistent damp odors are coming from Ann’s basement floor drains. She must figure out where the pipes are going and consider installing a lift pump. - Subflooring: Chris replaced a rotted bathroom subfloor and gets some tips on screwing cement board on top of it, then applying adhesive to install the floor tiles. - Wallpaper Removal: Should Lisa paint or remove old wallpaper and borders? We recommend using a paper tiger tool and a steam wallpaper remover to soften the glue.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we explore the importance of roof inspection, reveal the most stressful home improvement projects, and decide whether to repair or replace that aging appliance. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips for these and other home improvement questions! - Home Improvement Projects: A new survey reveals the most and least stressful home improvement projects. - Roof Inspection: After withstanding winter weather, it’s time to give your roof a checkup. - Appliance Repair: Get a cheat to help decide whether to repair or replace appliances.   Q & A: - Surge Protectors: Can Rick save money by connecting appliances and electronics to surge protectors? Not much, and they’re really meant to guard against power surges. - Toilet Condensation: Ilene has condensation on the outside of her toilets. A plumber can run a line to mix in warmer water and she should reduce the humidity in her home. - Spray Foam Insulation: Should Kevin use open- or closed-cell spray foam insulation? They’re both very effective and it depends on the moisture level of the area. - Radon System: Jane has a radon mitigation system but the radon levels upstairs are still high. She should have the system checked to make sure it’s venting properly. - Basement Walls: Ross wants to paint over stains on his concrete block walls. We have tips on cleaning them with a vinegar solution before priming and using masonry paint. - Replacing a Mailbox: Lynn’s mailbox rusted and broke inside a brick enclosure. She gets advice on how to detach and remove it and how to find the right replacement. - Roof Installation: What is the best kind of roof for a cold climate? Phillip learns about installing an ice and water shield, roof shingle options, and warranty information. - Door Adjustment: What is the best way to cut the bottom of a door? Carol gets step-by-step advice on using tape and a circular saw to avoid chipping and splitting the wood. - Bathroom Subfloor: Large bathroom floor tiles are starting to crack. George needs to tear them out and install a solid new subfloor that’s perfectly level before tiling again. - Energy Savings: Devron can’t figure out why the energy bills are so high. We suggest contacting the utility company to do an energy audit and to see if the attic needs more 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Get tips on keeping your home colorful, bright, and warm in today's show as we discuss what to think about before painting, easy pick-me-ups to beat the winter blues, and doing a home energy assessment. Plus, hear helpful answers to lots more home improvement questions! - Winter Blues: Lift your spirits and beat the winter blues with DIY tips to brighten up your home. - Painting Tips: Consider these 6 tips before starting your next painting project. - Energy Audit: Learn how to make your home more energy-efficient with a DIY energy audit.   Q & A: - Deck Stain: Jeanie needs advice for staining the new boards on her deck. We recommend using a solvent-based solid stain that will last longer. - Water Pressure: The water pressure is different in Brad’s bathrooms. He gets tips on how to figure out if it’s an obstruction or a problem with the valve or faucet. - Gutter Guards: Risa’s gutters are getting clogged with leaves from nearby trees. We advise her to find a reputable contractor to install mesh gutters that will work best. - Home Construction: Is prefabricated construction a good option? We agree there are lots of advantages to John building a prefab guest home. - Storm Door: Katie’s storm door is trapping so much heat, it’s melting her front door trim. She may not need the storm door at all, or else she can just use the screen panels. - Insulation: Brian is converting his ceiling can lights to LED, but he should check with the manufacturer about how to insulate around the lights in the attic. - Bathroom Wall Cracks: There are spider cracks in the acrylic wall around Stephanie’s shower. If they’re just on the surface, she can try buffing them with car wax. - Basement Flooring: Jay wants to warm up his cold concrete basement floor and gets info about subfloor panels he can place over the concrete before adding new flooring. - Preventing Mice: What is the best way to keep mice out of a seasonal home? Sarah gets tips for storing food, sealing gaps, eliminating nesting areas, and using rodenticide. - Cedar Siding: Is pine a good replacement for worn western red cedar siding? It’s not as durable, so he should stick with cedar siding or consider using HardiePlank instead.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this enlightening episode, we’ll discuss efficient new heat pump technology, learn savvy tips to reclaim your rental security deposit, and discover quick hacks for easy furniture repairs. For answers to these and lots more home improvement questions, your home transformation starts here! - Rental Security Deposit: When your rental lease ends, don’t forget these tips for reclaiming your security deposit. - Heat Pumps: New efficiencies in heat pump technology keep costs down and comfort up. - Furniture Repair: Clean stains and fix dings and dents with these easy furniture repair hacks.   Q & A: - Roof Moss and Mold: Mary wants to clean and prevent moss and mold on her asphalt shingle roof. Sunlight is the best solution and we recommend cutting back some trees. - Insulation: Does spray foam insulation pose a mold risk? It’s unlikely that a leak in Luke’s roof would go undetected long enough to cause any concern. - Replacing Windows: Marcia’s old wood kitchen window is hard to open and close. Replacing the window is easier and more efficient than the work involved in repairing it. - Shower Plumbing: Chad’s showers vary from freezing cold to scalding hot. A pressure balance valve will keep the water temperature consistent even when the pressure isn’t. - Garage Doors: Laurie has no remote control for the garage door opener. She can check on the manufacturer’s website for the model number of her unit to learn how to program the keypad and order the right remote control. - Laminate Floor: Does the color of a laminate floor go all the way through and will it hold up to Leroy’s chairs? Good-quality laminate flooring has multiple layers but should be fine for the furniture. - Shower Conversion: Cheryl wants to convert a small tub into a shower and gets tips on finding the right size shower pan to fit the space. - Water Heater: What is the best temperature setting for a gas water heater? Dean should be careful to keep the water no more than 110-120 degrees to avoid burns. - Ceiling Crack: After a wall was removed, it left a crack in the ceiling. Linda should cut out a bigger area of the drywall, then tape and spackle it well before priming the painting the whole ceiling. - Installing a Fence: Vincent is putting up a chain-link fence where there is lots of water. We have advice on digging deep and filling the post holes with cement. - Water Drainage: Shawnee has a problem with drainage and moisture in her yard from an underground spring, but it’s just a small area that doesn’t seem worth doing major work.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we’ll focus on winter wisdom for your home, with tips on how to use space heaters safely, ideas for luring colorful winter birds to your yard, and info on easy and effective spray foam insulation! Join us as we navigate these cold weather challenges and delights, plus answer lots more home improvement questions. - Space Heaters: If you want to enjoy warmth without worry, remember these space heater safety tips. - Winter Birds: Add life and color to your yard by attracting winter birds with the right feeders and food. - Foam Insulation: This innovative spray foam kit boosts insulation, seals drafts, and improves energy efficiency.   Q & A: - Tile Grout: Christine wants white grout for her white bathroom tile. Using sand grout for the floor, epoxy grout for the walls, and sealing it well will help keep it clean.  - Chimney Repair: Rebecca’s chimney has external cracks and the mantel is chipped and shifting. This sounds like a significant structural project that requires a professional home inspector to determine how to make repairs. - Crown Molding: There are gaps between the ceiling and the top of the crown molding. We suggest that Jason add another thin molding to cover the seam. - Double Fireplace: Danuza has questions about creating one open fireplace instead of two. It may not be a good idea, but a home inspector or chimney contractor may decide. - Solar Panels: Should a roof be replaced before installing solar panels? Lawrence must consider the ROI of investing in solar energy and giving up ten years of roof life. - Heated Floor: Can you install in-floor heating with a Terrazzo floor? It’s a big, expensive project, but Sylvia can run PEX piping under the tile. - Driveway Repair: Water pools in low spots on an asphalt driveway. Scott would have to redo the driveway to correct the base underneath, but in the meantime, he can seal the surface to extend its life as long as possible. - Bathroom Caulk: Mary is having trouble removing the caulk around her bathtub. We offer tips on using a caulk softener and the best way to apply new caulk. - Driveway Stains: After a golf cart leak stains his new driveway, Richard learns about using TSP to remove the stains. - Mold Problem: Cumi found black and green mold in her rental home. It’s the landlord’s responsibility to address this problem, which can pose a serious health risk.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Master your home’s full potential as we explore the allure of pro ranges for residential kitchens, reveal the secrets to stylish home makeovers on a budget, and discuss the craft of setting up a dedicated hobby space. Listen to these and other home improvement questions on today’s podcast episode! - Pro-Style Ranges: Pro-style kitchen ranges offer a wide menu of options for home gourmets. - Thrifty Home Makeover: Learn how to redecorate on a budget with makeover tips that cost little or nothing. - Hobby Space: Create a personalized space at home for your favorite hobbies or crafts.   Q & A: - Thermal Windows: Karen wants to allow sun through her windows in the daytime without losing heat at night. Thermal cellular shades are an inexpensive solution. - Ceiling Repair: A ceiling leak made the sheetrock separate. If it’s sagging, Ken can cut out and replace that area, or else just retape, spackle, prime, and paint the seam. - Flooring Gap: Nancy has a gap between the new wood floor and the front door threshold. She can either cover the gap with molding or fill it with a cut piece of flooring. - Garage Heat: Henry’s overhead natural gas heater in the garage is expensive to run, but an electric heater costs even more. We suggest using a compact kerosene heater. - Structural Beam: Jason is worried about a support beam that’s sagging on either end of his house. He needs a structural engineer to determine how to stabilize it. - Driveway Replacement: Can you put blacktop over a concrete driveway? Donna must either replace it entirely or use a patching product to repair the concrete surface. - Siding Installation: What are the pros and cons of hanging vinyl siding vertically instead of horizontally? Greg should have no issues if the siding is rated for vertical installation. - HVAC Maintenance: Carol has heating problems due to air in the lines from her boiler. She should just let out the air through the bleed valves in the radiators. - Crawlspace Vents: Can crawlspace vents be kept closed? They’re needed to control moisture and Chris should leave them open in spring, summer, and fall and closed in winter. - Structural Renovation: Mary has questions about renovating a home to create an open plan. An architect can design the proper specifications to do the work correctly.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we’ve got hot tips for chilly season challenges, including how to keep pipes from freezing when the mercury drops, post-holiday decoration cleanup, and unsticking doors to ensure smooth entries and exits. Stay tuned for these and other topics in a jam-packed episode of winter home improvement! - Frozen Pipes: When there’s frost in the forecast, know how to keep your pipes from freezing. - Removing Holiday Decorations: If it’s time to wrap up the holidays, undeck the halls with these quick and easy steps. - Sticking Doors: If you’re feeling stuck, we’ve got solutions for annoying doors that stick.   Q & A: - Shower Odors: Heidi can’t get rid of the sour odor coming from the shower drain. We suggest scrubbing the drain carefully with a Borax solution and using a vent fan with a humidistat. - Concrete Countertop: Should Lane build a DIY concrete countertop? It could be a lot of work, but with proper preparation, it’s a beautiful and inexpensive option. - Insulation: The upstairs rooms are always colder or hotter than downstairs. Linda should add blown-in insulation to the attic and cover her whole house fan in winter. - New Home Maintenance: After eight years in a new home, Greg wants advice on what maintenance he should be doing and gets tips on the most important things to watch. - HVAC Cleaning: Jeannie is concerned that the HVAC system is making her friend sick. She should have a professional inspection to check for mold and other possible problems with the ducts and filters that the landlord may need to fix. - Sheetrock Repair: Sheetrock tape keeps separating and lifting the paint, even after it’s been redone. Jeffrey should add a thin layer of new drywall over it and be sure it’s taped, primed, and painted properly. - Worn Woodwork: Paula has worn and damaged woodwork throughout her house. It’s easier and less expensive to replace and repaint some areas than to tear it all out. - Moisture Stains: A moisture problem under the house was fixed but left a powdery residue on the floors. Leta can easily remove the efflorescence with a vinegar solution. - Storm Windows: Are storm windows over single-pane double-hung windows efficient enough? They should be fine and Ron can easily upgrade the storm windows if needed. - Concrete Steps: The concrete mortar in Sandy’s brick steps is starting to deteriorate. It’s a common issue and she just needs to have a mason repoint the mortar.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us for a jam-packed episode where we discuss the essential trio for a snug home. Learn the nuances of firewood selection, dive into the secrets of maintaining pristine indoor air quality, and uncover a DIY solution to seal those chilly floor drafts. Your ultimate guide to a comfy abode awaits with answers to these and other home improvement questions! - Choosing Firewood: Enjoy cool nights by a warm fire by choosing the best firewood to burn cleanly and safely. - Indoor Air Pollution: Breathe easier by using the right air filters to improve air quality and reduce dust, allergens, and germs. - Sealing Floor Drafts: If upward drafts are giving you the chills, this DIY product seals and insulates gaps in the floor below.   Q & A: - Cleaning Carpet: Sue needs to clean algae from the carpet on her concrete front porch. We suggest renting a steam cleaner and using the right chemicals for great results. - Restoration: Kurt wants to be sure he’s taking the right steps for his restoration project and gets tips on beefing up floor joists. - Cracked Ceramic Flooring: Ceramic floor tiles in a new house are already cracking. Debra should have an independent engineer examine the cause, which may be the lack of an isolation membrane between the slab and tile. - Roofing Stains: Tim asks how to remove hard water stains on a painted metal roof. We recommend a good roof cleaning product that he can spray, let sit, and rinse off. - Old Walls: Cynthia’s not sure if she uncovered a firewall while ripping out old plaster walls. We explain it’s likely rock lath that was used in the 1800s, before sheetrock. - Cleaning Asbestos Concrete Siding: Lewis’ asbestos concrete siding has a golden glow from iron in the well water used in the garden. He’ll need to clean it with TSP and repaint the asbestos siding. - Shower Plumbing: An old tile shower on the main floor is leaking into the basement. John should first check the lead shower pan by blocking the drain and filling the pan with water. - Crawlspace Mold: There’s mold in the crawlspace of Rhonda’s condo from a moisture issue. She should document the problem and have it inspected because the HOA may be responsible for addressing any repairs. - Wood Paneling: Jim is considering options for covering up old wood paneling. The easiest cosmetic solution would be to clean, prime, and paint the paneling white. - Weatherstripping: Renea’s apartment is freezing cold in winter! A weatherstripping caulk and shrink film for the windows and sliding doors can keep out the chill but will limit access to open them. - Wainscoting: Can wood pallets be used for wainscoting? We agree they’d be a good, creative way to upcycle materials for Olin’s living room project. - Insulation Options: How does traditional attic insulation compare to the newer MILO insulation? It sounds like a cool concept, but we advise LaHonda to stick with more established insulation products for now.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, learn the secrets to creating a harmonious home as we discuss expert advice on decluttering your space, ensuring your stairs are secure, and embracing the uniqueness of vintage finds, plus answers to more home improvement questions. - Home Organization: Conquer clutter chaos by keeping your home organized. - Staircase Safety: Step-by-step tips for staircase safety. - Vintage Design: Add vintage charm to your home with salvaged architectural pieces.   Q & A: - Chimney Venting: Gayle needs advice on converting her old fireplace to gas. Lining the chimney with a stainless steel flue would be easier than installing a power vent. - Cracked Drywall: Doug was told his drywall cracks are from a structural problem, but it sounds like the contractor did a bad job installing the drywall. - Flooring Options: Engineered hardwood, laminate, and engineered vinyl planks are all good options for Rebecca to install over her existing ceramic tile floor. - Window Leak Stain: A leak under a cellar window left a stain that looks like mildew. It’s probably just efflorescence that Ross can easily remove and paint over. - Water Heater: Gwen’s water heater was clogged up with hard water mineral deposits that settled to the bottom. Draining it regularly will keep it running efficiently. - Refinishing Countertops: Should a dark Formica countertop be covered or replaced? Mark learns about a great DIY product that will give the surface the look of granite.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Tune in to today’s show for a wealth of essential winter wisdom! We'll guide you through snow preparation tactics, effective methods to eliminate pesky Christmas tree bugs, and insights into handling and preventing common household poisons. Empower yourself with knowledge to safeguard your home and family, plus answers to more home improvement questions. - Winter Checklist: The best time to prepare for snow is before it starts, with this winter-ready checklist. - Christmas Tree Bugs: Learn what to do when your unwelcome holiday guests are Christmas tree bugs. - Household Poisons: Take these important steps to protect your family from common household poisons.   Q & A: - Leaking Roof: Cindy has tried everything to fix a leaky corrugated metal roof. She’ll need to either add another layer of roof with an ice and water shield or replace the whole roof. - Generator: Rich wants a generator to guard against power outages. We recommend a natural gas whole-house generator to keep things running and offer peace of mind. - Window Replacement: Some of Donna’s old windows no longer open or close. After so many years, it’s time to replace them with windows that are more energy-efficient. - Attic Fan Energy Savings: Is it worth having an attic fan? Rob learns why an attic fan can waste energy in the summer and how not to use it in the winter. - Uneven Floor Joists: A dip in Deb’s old home is twisting the staircase. It’s rarely a good idea to try to raise the floor unless it’s a structural issue and would be easier to build new stairs to fit the space. - Concrete Flooring and Walls: What’s the best way to seal concrete walls and floors in a basement? Gary can use standard masonry wall paint and epoxy on the floor. - Countertops: Cheryl needs ideas for resurfacing her plywood countertops. Tile would be a good DIY option that’s quick, affordable, and stylish.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show offers a trifecta of home beautification tips! Unravel the mysteries of proper paint storage so leftover colors remain fresh and usable, then learn the art of securely hanging wall hangings for a picture-perfect gallery. Finally, spruce up your entryway with front door décor ideas to welcome holiday guests. Plus, get answers to even more home improvement questions! - Storing Paint: Leftover paint is useful for touchups and other projects, as long as it’s stored the right way. - Securing Wall Hangings: What goes up won’t come down with these tips for securing wall hangings. - Front Door Décor: Make a lasting first impression with festive front door décor to welcome holiday guests.   Q & A: - Drainage: How can John improve drainage on a home surrounded on three sides by soil on a steep hill? A curtain drain can intercept and redirect water around the foundation. - Concrete Patio Surface: Jennifer’s concrete patio has gotten pitted from rock salt. She can use a concrete resurfacing product on the entire slab to fill in the pockmarks. - Hardwood Floors: After a contractor did a bad job stripping his hardwood floors, Billy gets advice on how to sand and refinish the surface, plus how to stop the squeaks. - Insulation: Brrr! Both kitchens in Lora’s home are cold due to insufficient heating and insulation. We suggest calling the home inspector and taking steps to warm things up. - Asphalt Driveway: How can you repair a crumbling asphalt driveway? Bruce may be able to patch small holes temporarily, but a latex patching compound would be better. - Accessible Cabinets: Nancy doesn’t like the old soffits in her kitchen but is concerned about reaching high spaces. A certified kitchen and bath designer could offer accessible options with pull-down shelves.  - Heating Installation: Virgil is installing an energy-efficient furnace in his old home. The manufacturer can tell him the proper installation and venting for that equipment.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we’ll be looking upward to keep your home safe and comfortable! First, check out tips for adding living space in your attic. Then, beware of the dangers of damaging ice dams on your roof. Finally, keep the cold out and the warmth in with spray foam insulation that’s made easy. Listen in for answers to all this and more of your home improvement questions! - Using Attic Space: If you need some added living space, look up toward your attic for some remodeling ideas. - Icicles and Ice Dams: Those pretty icicles hanging off your roof may signal damaging ice dams. - Spray Foam Insulation: Sealing out drafts is made easier and more effective with a new one-part spray foam insulation product.   Q & A: - Closet Space: Matt wants to move the entry to a narrow closet from the short end to the wide wall. Building a temporary wall is a good idea in case it needs support. - Laminate Flooring: What is the easiest way to install a laminate floor? Tristan gets step-by-step instructions on how to lay down a new floor. - Sump Pump: Jesse must drain his washing machine into a gray water pump instead of a sump pump. We advise him on how to connect the vent system. - Wallpaper Seams: One big area of Nora’s wallpaper is mysteriously curling at the seams. There are several wallpaper seam repair products she can apply. - Old Window Repair: Someone broke the windows in Mike’s very old house. He’ll need to replace the glazing around the glass and have a carpenter repair the wood. - Kitchen Cabinets: Marilyn loves her oak kitchen cabinets and wants to take them to her new home. It shouldn’t be a problem to carefully disassemble and move them. - Cockroaches: Yuck! Alan moved into a house that’s crawling with cockroaches. Professional pest control is his best option, but it may take time to get rid of the roaches. - Door Above Concrete: The door over a concrete slab porch is chipping away the cement. Christy should use a patching compound and add an adjustable sweep on the bottom of the door. - HVAC: Joan would love to turn a small outbuilding into a usable space. A small wall heater running off a natural gas line would be a great way to make it comfortable. - Garage Floor: A low spot in the garage floor keeps filling with water and freezing. Mona can use a patching compound to level the floor or install a modular tile floor that will drain and provide traction.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we cover the essentials of home safety and comfort! In this show, we discuss whether smoke detectors and CO detectors alone provide complete protection, then explore how to avoid cleaning product hazards. Plus, find a game-changing product that not only bolsters insulation but significantly enhances your home's energy efficiency. All this and much more to answer your latest home improvement questions! - Fire Protection: Are smoke and CO detectors enough to keep your home protected? - Cleaning Products: What to look for and what to do to handle cleaning products safely - Boost Insulation: This new product boosts insulation and increases energy efficiency and comfort.   Q & A: - Plumbing Leak: To fix a leak where the copper pipes connect, Kris needs to start by draining the boiler below the point of the leak. - Building a Sunroom: Jay is building a sunroom and gets tips on pouring the concrete foundation and adding insulation to supplement passive solar heat. - House Leveling: A main beam has broken under Diana’s house and now it’s settling unevenly. A good contractor can attach a new beam to reinforce the old one. - Water Softener: How can you tell if your water softener is working and how do you clean it? Ken gets some step-by-step advice. - Security System: Sherry lives in a rural area and wants to install a security system. There are lots of affordable options that offer Wi-Fi connections, power backups, monitoring services, and other features. - Roof Leak: Vincent isn’t sure if a leak is coming from his metal roof or the air conditioner. We tell him how to find the source and what to do to seal the roof. - Noisy Siding: Why is Carolyn’s vinyl siding making noises? It may be wind going through the panels, but they shouldn’t be tightened because the siding will buckle. - Stained Patio: How can David renew a stained, faded patio? We discuss some products he can use to refinish and seal the concrete surface. - Stone Porch: Mindy has lots of questions and we’ve got lots of answers on what products to use on her stone porch. - Faucet Plumbing: Roger’s bathroom sink faucet keeps leaking even after he’s replaced the parts. It may be best to use original parts from the manufacturer that will fit perfectly. 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us on this week’s podcast as we start by delving into the nitty-gritty of remodeling woes, revealing common mistakes to dodge. Then, from transforming your garage into a DIY haven to ensuring your home's address stands out, we've got you covered with practical insights and expert advice for all your home improvement questions! - Remodeling Mistakes: These 5 common remodeling mistakes can lead to renovation regrets. - DIY Workspace: Create a comfortable and convenient garage workspace for less than $500. - House Numbers: Make your home easier for guests and emergency responders to find with more visible house numbers.   Q & A: - Garage Floor: How can you treat a garage floor that’s covered in oil and grease? Laurie gets tips for using TSP and a pressure washer, then applying an epoxy finish. - Snow and Insulation: Ash is worried about attic insulation preventing roof snow from melting. Fast-melting snow actually poses a bigger risk because of added weight. - Hiring Contractors: Rita is frustrated by pushy, uncooperative contractors and gets advice on searching online to get the well-prepared, proper estimates that she needs. - Refinishing Stairs: Should Jason use water-based polyurethane on his wood stairs? It would be better to use a satin, solvent-based polyurethane that is more durable. - Soundproofing: Tony’s noisy upstairs neighbor is a ceiling stomper! Aside from insulating the ceiling or having the neighbor put down rugs, the best he can do is use soft goods to absorb the sound in his apartment. - Wall Tile: Shen wants to put tile over a cement wall in the garage. She’ll need a waterproof uncoupling membrane between the wall and tile to prevent moisture and cracking. - Basement Ceiling: Drop ceiling or exposed ceiling in the basement? Gonzalo could tidy up the wiring and paint it, but he should really look at great new drop ceiling options. - Ventilation and Insulation: Kathy’s Cape Cod home is hard to ventilate to prevent moisture, so we suggest using spray foam insulation to seal it completely. - Toilet Plumbing: The basement toilet gurgles and won’t flush all the way. Rick will need a plumber to clear out the blockage that his standard snake can’t reach.   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. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Lock 'em out, seal 'em in, and pave the way! Join us for tips to fortify your home against break-ins, seal drafts with spray foam wizardry, and wave goodbye to dirty, damaged driveways. Get answers to these and other callers’ home improvement questions on this week’s Money Pit podcast! Door Defense: Securing your doors is key to protecting your home from burglars. Sealing Drafts: This great DIY spray foam makes it easy to seal out drafts. Driveway Repair: Get tips for restoring a stained or cracked driveway.   Q & A: Garage Floors: Tracked-in snow is making a mess in Randy’s garage. A perforated floor tile system and epoxy floor paint can help keep things clean. Fireplace Drafts: Wind is blowing through a gas fireplace that was improperly installed. Susan should check for gaps and contact the manufacturer for installation instructions. Painting a Room: In what order should you paint a room? Jake gets tips on how to prep the space and use masking tape to paint baseboards and trim, then the walls. Metal Roofing: Is a metal roof worth the investment? Sally learns it’s a great but expensive option, so the ROI depends on how long she’ll be staying in the house. LED Lighting: Scott is converting his home to all LED lighting but can’t find LED tubes to replace the fluorescent ones. We suggest ordering them online and having them shipped. Paint Stains: Black spray paint leaked onto Tiffany’s laminate floor. She can try carefully rubbing the stain with some nail polish remover. Old Windows: Don’s old windows date back to 1746! We discuss using a heat gun or a steamer to carefully remove and replace the window glaze without damaging the wood. Woodpecker Damage: Woodpeckers are damaging the exterior of Denise’s house. Hanging strips of black plastic or shiny tin pie plates will help drive them away. Faded Wood Floors: When Ty pulls up an area rug, he sees that the wood floor around it has faded. Time will eventually even out the color, or else he must refinish the whole floor.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Tune in for a treasure trove of home improvement tips in this episode, where we discuss blunders to avoid in home heating, dish about top-rated dishwashers, and share the secret to creating attractive and affordable marble surfaces. From cozy warmth to sparkling dishes and elegant countertops, we're here to help you make your house a dream home! Dishwasher Ratings: A new survey dishes up details about the top-rated dishwashers. Home Heating: Find out 3 common home heating mistakes that are driving up your energy bills. Marble Surfaces: Get the beautiful look of marble surfaces easily and without the high cost.   Q & A: Cleaning Grout: To clean tile grout in high-traffic areas that has gotten dark, Lisa will find that a grout stripper is much stronger and works better than a grout cleaner. Toilet Plumbing: When one toilet flushes, the one in the other bathroom drains! John should check for an obstruction that’s affecting the venting in the pipes. Countertop Stains: How can you cover a white marble countertop that’s badly stained? We suggest Katherine use a marble resurfacing kit that can be used on existing stone. Shower Remodel: John is converting a basement sauna into a shower and needs ideas for wall materials. Tile is a good option that can be adhered right onto the terracotta walls. Painting Doors: Anna’s painter used cans of spray paint on her doors and now they’re all sticking. We offer tips for removing the doors and repainting them the right way. Bathroom Moisture: Eddie’s done almost everything to reduce the condensation in his bathrooms. Now he should try installing a humidistat timer on the exhaust fans. Wallpaper Removal: What’s the best way to remove layers of wallpaper? Thomas should use an inexpensive paper tiger tool and wallpaper paste remover, unless he wants to rent a wallpaper steamer. Damaged Siding: Wade’s steel siding was damaged by a hailstorm and he can’t find new siding to match it. A public adjuster will fight to have all the siding replaced by his insurance company. Painting Wood Paneling: Dena is tired of the dark brown paneling she has in every room. It’s better to remove it, but it’s possible to clean, sand, prime, and paint over it. Mice Control: Eek! William is suddenly getting lots of mice in his basement. We offer tips on what he should do to manage his rodent problem.   ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s episode, we’ve got tips for keeping your home mess-free, stress-free, and mold-free, from creating functional space in cluttered closets to deciphering the significance of foundation cracks to safeguarding against dreaded window mold and rot. Tune in to learn all this and much more from the Money Pit’s home improvement experts! Foundation Cracks: Crack the code of sorting minor cracks from major foundation issues. Closet Organization: Get organizing ideas to cure closet chaos and save space. Shower Windows: Keep mold and rot at bay in old bathroom shower windows.   Q & A: Painting Foundation: Anna needs tips on painting the cement foundation of her home. She should start with a good masonry primer before adding a coat of exterior paint. Cleaning a Fireplace: What is the best way to clean creosote from a brick fireplace? Bill gets suggestions about using TSP, brick and stone cleaners, and soot removers, plus safety advice. Painting Stucco: Do stucco exterior walls need to be treated before painting? Jean should lightly pressure wash them before priming and painting the surface. HVAC Replacement: John is thinking of putting a ductless heating unit in every room, but it’s an expensive idea and we think he really just needs better insulation. Garage Insulation: Christine has lots of questions about insulating a detached garage and a crawlspace. Spray foam insulation is a great option and very effective. Cold Showers: Brrrrrrr! It takes too long for the shower water to get hot, but it’s fine everywhere else. Sounds like Daniel should replace a faulty shower valve. Leaking Roof: The bathroom ceiling in Steve’s cabin is leaking, but the repairs and mold prevention should be covered by insurance since it was caused by storm damage.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we’ll unlock expert secrets on fortifying your space! From installing motion-sensing security lights to preventing frozen pipes and sealing pesky floor drafts, we've got you covered. Tune in for a wealth of home improvement insights with these and other tips to make your home a haven of safety and comfort! Motion-Sensing Security Lights: Stop burglars in their tracks by easily installing motion-sensing security lights. Frozen Water Pipes: Get thawed-full advice to keep pipes from freezing when temperatures dip. Floor Drafts: Learn what to do when drafts coming up from the floor send chills down your spine.   Q & A: Kitchen Plumbing Vent: What happens if a kitchen plumbing vent is left welded shut? Unless Kate’s drains are sluggish, it shouldn’t be a problem; otherwise, she’d need to remove and extend the vent. HVAC Mold: Brandon is worried about mold by his furnace, but it’s probably just algae from condensation that overflows from the air conditioning coil. Electrical Outlets: Why do some outlets have two holes and others have three? Lisa learns it’s from different types of wiring and how they’re grounded. Refinishing Exterior Wood Doors: John wants to be sure he’s properly refinishing his mahogany doors and gets tips on maintaining and protecting them from UV damage. Flooring Insulation: We offer Janet some advice on sealing drafts and adding insulation between the floor joists under her new side addition. Foundation Water: Rainwater is coming in through the rock under Keith’s house foundation. He learns all the steps he can take to improve exterior drainage and keep moisture away. Brick Flooring: Barb is struggling to remove layers of wax from her unique brick floor and gets suggestions for using a wax stripping product. HVAC Systems: Is it cheaper to run a natural gas or a fuel oil HVAC system? We think it’s smart for Bob to switch to more efficient and cost-effective natural gas. Textured Countertops: Is there a way to smooth down countertops that have a leather-like texture? Unfortunately, Ann would be better off replacing the countertops instead.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this podcast packed with home improvement wisdom, we reveal the reality of older home repairs, unravel the magic of heat pump technology, and uncover stealthy spots where your home's energy is slipping away. Tune in for a mix of classic craftsmanship and modern energy-saving tips! - Older Home Repairs: The charm of buying an older home comes at the cost of commonly needed repairs. - Heat Pump Technology: New heat pump technology is the hottest buzz in home comfort and energy savings. - Finding Wasted Energy: Discover the hidden hideouts where your home is wasting energy.   Q & A: - Basement Walls: Brenda is remodeling her basement and gets info on how to frame new walls and what kind of materials to use. - Water Quality: Steve replaced his water heater and now the water smells bad. Something else must have changed, and he should have his well water tested. - Siding Stains: Rainwater has left stains on the corrugated siding of Patricia’s mobile home. We’ve got tips on mildewcides and cleaning products she can use. - Landscape Lighting: There’s a short somewhere in Patrick’s old low-voltage landscape lighting. After 25 years, it’s time to consider replacing them with a new LED system. - Patio Cover: Janet wants to build a patio cover, but there are lots of reasons why a retractable awning would be a better option. - Building Permits: When do you need to get building permits? They’re usually required for home replacements, not for repairs, but Tyler should check with his local municipality. - Sink Plumbing: When the garbage disposal turns on, the other sink backs up! Eden’s got an obstruction in the main drain line and learns how to clear it out.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: It’s the season for heating up your home improvement hacks! In this episode, we’ll spill the beans on self-cleaning ovens, winter rooftop inspection tips, and the cozy world of spray foam insulation. Listen now to hear what we're cooking up next! - Self-Cleaning Ovens: Find out why the holidays are the worst time to run your oven’s self-cleaning cycle, plus get some oven maintenance tips. - Roof Inspection: Winter weather is rough on roofs, so now’s the time to do a DIY roof check-up. - Spray Foam Insulation: Seal drafts and lower heating bills with this easy spray foam insulation system.   Q & A: - Heat Pumps: Do you really need to have a heat pump serviced twice each year? Ruth only needs to have the heating and cooling systems inspected together once annually. - Removing Doors: Brian wants to know the best way to take a door off its hinges and replace it again. We share helpful step-by-step tips on door removal. - Igloo Humidity: Lori is buying a domed, igloo-like concrete home but the indoor dehumidifier isn’t enough. We offer advice on how to manage the moisture. - Window Condensation: There’s suddenly condensation on Eric’s single-pane windows all year long. He gets lots of ideas on possible causes and solutions for reducing the humidity. - Carpet Glue Removal: Sylvia is pulling up carpet and needs to remove the glue. A citrus adhesive remover will help soften and smooth it out before she adds a layer of plywood and new flooring. - Dishwasher Odor: We recommend a product that Stan can use to scrub and disinfect his newly installed dishwasher that’s already giving off some bad odors. - Garage Space: Esther wants to change the structure of her long garage to move the doors to a different side. It’s a big job that requires reframing the load-bearing walls. - Window Mold: Stubborn mold keeps returning around Scott’s windows each winter. Mixing a bleach and water solution and letting it sit should clean the mold 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Before Jack Frost arrives for the season, learn the cold hard facts about winterizing your sprinkler system, the cost of buying older homes, and common painting mistakes. From chills to bills to drippy spills, we’ve got the answers you need to avoid these and other home improvement headaches in this episode! - Winterizing Sprinkler System: Avoid a frozen fiasco by winterizing your sprinkler system before cold sets in. - Buying Older Homes: A survey shows homeowners are divided on the thought of buying and maintaining another older home. - Painting Tips: Remember these 3 tips to avoid common painting mistakes.   Q & A: - Treating a Wood Porch: What is the best way to treat a pine wood porch? Stephen won’t need to seal it if he cleans it well and applies a good solid stain. - Crawlspace Ventilation: After putting down a plastic vapor barrier, Floyd should keep his crawlspace vents open for most of the year, except for the coldest winter months. - Hiring an Architect: Linda is seeking the best advice for remodeling her old farmhouse. An architect would have the right info for structural and design integrity. - Porch Moisture: Recent drainage issues are forcing moisture up through Jim’s porch floor. He gets tips on gutters, downspouts, and curtain drains to redirect the water. - Installing Gutters: Esther needn’t worry about cracking her asphalt shingles when her gutters are replaced if they’re screwed directly to the fascia board. - Bathroom Carpet: Carpeting in a bathroom is a bad idea, but Barry gets tips on installing a door sill, plus suggestions for better flooring that’s moisture-resistant. - Cleaning Moss: Mark’s got lots of shade trees in the front yard and moss covering his pavers. He can use a mildewcide and a power washer to clean and prevent the moss. - Foundation Drainage: A builder is suggesting two drainage systems for Jill’s new home. It sounds like a good idea and we have additional tips she should opt for.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Before the need arises to file an insurance claim, you should know how well your home is covered. Find out the important questions to ask about homeowner’s insurance. - Homeowner’s Insurance: Does your homeowner’s insurance policy offer enough coverage? Here’s what to ask. - Pittsburgh Potty Puzzle: Find out the story behind strange old toilets found in some pre-World War II homes. - Furnace Filters: Using the right furnace filter is the easiest way to make your HVAC system more efficient.   Q & A: - Oil-Based Paint: Oil-based paint is no longer sold in Laura’s area. Cleaning her ceiling well and using a solvent-based primer and flat latex paint instead should work well. - Deck Lumber: After tearing down a rotted old wood deck, David gets tips about above-ground and ground-contact pressure-treated lumber to build a new deck. - Foggy Windows: The thermal pane seal in Sarah’s windows has failed and now they’re always fogging up. We advise replacing them gradually rather than trying to repair them. - Damaged Siding: Ivy can be lovely but causes a lot of damage! Lauren gets advice on cleaning, staining, and repairing damaged areas of her cedar siding. - Peeling Paint: Paint is peeling from the bathroom walls and ceiling. Sonny needs to scrape off the old paint and use an oil-based primer so new paint will adhere properly. - Locating Plumbing: Mary’s having trouble locating the plumbing to install a whole house water filter. We help her find the main water valve inside her home. - Flooring Over Concrete: Ted wants to install new flooring over his existing concrete floor. Laminate, vinyl plank, and engineered hardwood would all be great DIY options. - Insulation Over a Crawlspace: Christine wants to warm up the floors over an unheated crawlspace. Insulating the pipes and the space between the floor joists will make a huge difference.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Clothes Dryer Tips: These 5 clothes dryer tips put a new spin on the best way to do laundry. - Metal Roofing: Learn the latest options in metal roofs that last long and stand up to Mother Nature. - Best Indoor Plants: You don’t need a green thumb to grow these easy indoor plants.   Q & A: - Bathroom Ventilation: How can you ventilate a bathroom that has no fan? Diane gets advice on installing a vent fan through an exterior wall or between floor joists above the ceiling. - Warped Hardwood Floor: Kenneth’s new hardwood floor has started to warp. We suggest ways to reduce indoor humidity and trying to sand down the raised areas. - Door Gap: Julianne needs to close the gap under her bottom door sill. She needs to pack some epoxy patching cement into the space to reinforce and seal the space. - Insulation: Is ventilation needed after using open-cell spray foam insulation in the attic? Joe won’t need it and his HVAC system will work even better. - Attaching Shutters: Lisa is considering installing window shutters but isn’t ready to attach them permanently. She could use clips that snap onto the siding until she’s sure. - Cleaning Travertine Tile: Steve wants to clean and restore the gloss on travertine tile. We recommend some DIY products to clean, polish, and seal the surface. - Fireplace Façade: Lynn needs ideas for giving her fireplace a new façade. Marble, granite, and faux stone would be attractive options to adhere right over the brick. - Driveway Repair: Big cracks in an old concrete driveway need repair. George gets tips on how to insert a backer rod to fill wide cracks before sealing them with caulk.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Drop Ceilings: Updated drop ceilings offer trendy new looks for remodeling projects. - Tub and Shower Leaks: Tub and shower leaks are easy to fix once you know where to find the source. - Thermostat Mistakes: Avoid these top three thermostat mistakes to stay comfortable while lowering heating bills.   Q & A: - Window Sill Repairs: Should Kaitlyn repair or replace her rotted wooden window sills? Unless they’re totally destroyed, she can fill them with a wood hardener and epoxy. - Sink Insulation: Jim asks about ways to keep standing water in his sink warm. We have suggestions for insulating the area under the sink and using spray foam or a fiberglass blanket. - Kitchen Island Lights: It’s hard to get three square lights above a kitchen island to hang straight. Donna must readjust the twisted rods going into the junction box. - Bubbling Paint: Exterior paint keeps bubbling and chipping. Dana needs to strip off the paint and make sure the area is properly primed before repainting it. - Cleaning Windows: Marie hates cleaning windows! There’s no easy way to clean them without leaving streaks, but we can recommend some good cleaning products. - Metal Roofing: Randy is concerned by roof vents that were closed when he had a metal roof installed. It’s fine as long as he has soffit vents with insulation baffles to make sure the vents aren’t blocked. - Bathroom Flooring: Michelle is updating the bathroom and wants kid-proof flooring. Laminate, vinyl plank, or tile that is sealed and glazed are some good options. - Renovation ROI: How can you calculate the ROI of home renovations? Tom gets some advice about cost vs. value when it comes to renovating and selling a home. - Insulation Fumes: Should James be worried about fumes from spray foam insulation? As long as he uses a name-brand product and a good contractor, he shouldn’t be concerned about off-gases.    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. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Sealing Drafts: Tracking down and sealing drafts is the first step in keeping your home warm. - Stone Countertop Refinishing: Get the look of natural stone countertops with an easy and affordable weekend project. - Textured Surface Repairs: Fix textured walls and ceilings without the fuss and mess.     Q & A: - Mailbox Stains: Those stains on Louise’s brick mailbox are probably mineral deposits from water splashes. A vinegar solution will clean the surface easily. - Reversing a Door Swing: Scott wants to reverse the swing of a door that blocks the light switch, but it would be simpler to run the light switch to a different spot. - Sealing Windows: Linda is paying high energy bills but has limited options in her rental apartment. We recommend using shrink film or weatherstripping caulk on her windows. - Replacing HVAC System: Sal needs recommendations for replacing his HVAC unit. He should start by checking references of local contractors and seeking out good brands, energy efficiency ratings, and available rebates. - Uneven Subfloor: New flooring can’t be installed over an uneven subfloor. Diane needs either a carpentry solution or a floor-leveling compound. - Toilet Water System: Darren has questions about converting his toilet to rain barrel water. We have answers about filtering, water pressure, and toilet efficiency. - Log Home Walls: There are cracks in the walls of Nina’s log home. A wood filler could be colored or stained, but she’s better off accepting the rustic log look. - Flooring Over Concrete: What kind of flooring should be installed over concrete? John’s best options include laminate or engineered hardwood.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Power Outages: When the power goes out, you’ll need these blackout survival tips. - Fall Lawn Care: Proper care in the fall keeps your lawn and landscape healthy and green for springtime. - Cutting Heating Costs: Do high heating bills send chills down your spine? Get energy-saving tips to lower costs.   Q & A: - Indoor Bugs: Centipedes and crickets have Dorothy’s skin crawling! We have tips on how to seal off any basement and garage openings and eliminate indoor bugs. - Water in Basement: Water in the basement after it rains signals a drainage issue. Scott gets advice on what steps are needed to improve drainage around his home. - Drafty Doors: Weather stripping isn’t stopping the drafts around Wendy’s doors. She may need to adjust the door alignment to seal the gaps better. - Supplemental Heating: Ralph can’t warm up a room next to his garage. He should seal any drafts and consider getting affordable electric baseboard heaters with timers. - Cinderblock Walls: How can you give cinderblock walls a more attractive look? Kay should contact a professional to cover the walls with a smooth layer of plaster. - Low Water Pressure: Sam has great water pressure everywhere in his old home except the bathtub. It may be rust clogging the original steel pipes or a valve that needs replacing. - Dishwasher Odor: Phew! There’s a bad smell coming from Nathan’s dishwasher. We recommend a product that can easily clean out the microbes of decaying food.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Roof Ice Dams: Those pretty icicles hanging from your roof may signal damaging ice dams. - Repairing Textured Surfaces: There’s a new way to repair textured ceilings and walls without the hassle and mess. - Planning Home Improvement Projects: Avoid unwelcome home improvement surprises with careful planning.   Q & A: - Wall Texture: After stripping the wallpaper, Sandi wants to add texture to her walls. We discuss a number of options for textured paint and techniques. - Water Heater Venting: What is the right way to vent a tankless water heater? John gets tips on running the ducts to vent outside the house. - Removing Roof Moss: Can copper flashing prevent moss buildup? Sue learns how adding copper flashing on the top roof ridge acts as a natural algaecide. - Lawn Seeding: When is the best time of year to reseed a lawn? Early- to mid-fall is the perfect season for Alan to rake and seed, then give the lawn time to take root. - Lead in Ceramic Tiles: Margaret is concerned about lead in her old ceramic tiles. We suggest working with an EPA-certified contractor and recoating the tiles with an epoxy finish. - Whole House Fan: What is the best way to install a whole house fan? Mike gets tips on where to place it and how to operate it most effectively. - Worn Engineered Flooring: Dorothy’s engineered flooring is worn in spots. It’s not designed to be refinished, so she’ll need to remove and replace it. - Water Softeners: Brian needs a conditioning system for his hard water. We recommend using a traditional salt-based water softener rather than a salt-free 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Garbage Disposal Problems: Letting seasonal leftovers go down the drain causes clog chaos. - Carpet Deodorizer: Mix up an easy DIY deodorizing recipe to take your carpets from funky to fresh. - Fire Prevention: Get tips on fire hazards you may be overlooking and how to prevent them.   Q & A: - Painting Brick: Cathy wants to brighten up the dark brick wall around her fireplace. Painting is one option but she may also consider other creative alternatives. - Smoke Odors: How can James get rid of smoke odors in his new home? We have advice on what he needs to discard, clean, and seal to remove the smell. - Basement Floor Moisture: Dampness is affecting a cracked basement floor. Holly gets information on how to keep moisture away from the foundation of her home. - Electrical Wiring: We’re completely shocked after Bob’s electrician never checked the power after rewiring the entire house and expects to be paid for fixing his mistake. - Bathroom Grout: Does Janiese need to seal epoxy grout around the bathroom tile? It’s not necessary unless you’re using sand-based grout. - Window Condensation: Condensation is forming inside single-pane windows in a historic home. James needs to install a whole-house dehumidifier, improve outside drainage, and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to reduce indoor moisture. - Gutters and Downspouts: There are always puddles between two neighboring homes. Allison must manage the water with the right gutters, downspouts, and a French drain. - Installing a Safe: Richard wants to dig into his slab foundation to install a safe. Existing plumbing and wiring are unknown risks and we recommend securely bolting the safe to the floor instead.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Outdoor Projects for Fall: Autumn is the season to fall in love with some favorite outdoor projects for your home. - Door Locks: Home security starts with strong door locks. Find out the best and worst locks for preventing break-ins. - Marble Surfaces: A new DIY product creates beautiful marble surfaces without the expense.   Q & A: - Supplemental HVAC: Cathedral ceilings make it hard to cool the house evenly. Ed may add a split ductless system to supplement the central air conditioning. - Caulking Siding: Does Mary need to caulk concrete siding attached to plywood walls? She may only need adhesive, but she can use caulk to touch up any areas where nails break through the painted surface. - Window Leak: Water is leaking into the bay window beneath a skylight. Adam gets tips on sealing gaps with caulk and diverting water from the roof. - Concrete Curb Cracks: Susan’s concrete curb is cracking and sloping downward. She’ll either need to rebuild it or use DIY products to repair and resurface the concrete. - Finishing a Dirt Floor: Rob wants to pour concrete over a dirt floor in his hut. It should be easy to tamp down the dirt, then spread and float the concrete smoothly. - Attic Ventilation: How much attic ventilation is needed? Dale only has about half of the recommended amount and adding soffit vents would be most efficient. - Backsplash Adhesive: Audrey gets information about an adhesive backing product for installing a tile backsplash. - Window Condensation: Too much condensation on Steve’s vinyl replacement windows is caused by deficient glass or frames. It’s worth contacting the manufacturer and the installer.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and leaks are all too common. Learn how to keep your family safe. - Upcycled Furniture: Design on a dime with tips on finding the best upcycled furniture to turn trash to treasure. - LED Lighting: Let’s shed some light on how to save money and energy with LED lighting solutions.   Q & A: - Hard Water: Colleen is wondering about a solution for treating her hard well water, but we recommend a standard salt-based water softener as her best option. - Condensation on AC Vents: Condensation from the AC vents is staining Stanley’s ceiling. We’ve got tips on insulating the ducts to stop the problem. - Basement Water: Lynn finds water gushing through the hose bib into her basement. Silicone will seal the gap around the pipe and she needs to improve the outside drainage. - Porch Resurfacing: Linda is thinking of restaining her peeling porch, but we suggest a great stone-based product to refinish the surface and give it a whole new look. - Deck Staining: After removing the rotted boards on his wood deck, Casey learns how to properly stain and seal the new pressure-treated lumber. - Fireplace Drafts: A big draft is coming from the fireplace. Linda needs to install a good damper or use glass doors in front of the hearth to block the wind. - Roof Drainage: Rainwater is running behind the downspout against the fascia board and may rot the wood. John should see if the gutters and the downspouts were connected properly and consider getting a larger downspout.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Getting Rid of Leaves: Rake in some tips on the best ways to get rid of fallen leaves to help next year’s garden. - Concrete Repair and Resurfacing: Learn the easy way to restore cracked and damaged concrete surfaces. - Energy-Efficient Windows: Keep drafts out and heat in by choosing the best energy-efficient windows.   Q & A: - Peeling Linoleum Floor: Mindy has a peeling linoleum floor with even more layers underneath. It will take some work, but we recommend pulling it all up before installing a new floor. - Uneven Heating and Cooling: It’s hard to regulate temperatures in a split-level home. Brent should check the registers and returns and consider adding supplemental heating. - Crumbling Concrete: The concrete basement floor is crumbling from water damage. Mary should address any drainage issues first, then use a patching compound and epoxy floor paint. - Retaining Wall Runoff: Water from a retaining wall is seeping into Richard’s walkout basement. He gets tips on how to intercept and redirect the water. - Sealing Siding: Peggy’s siding is flush against a concrete slab where rainwater pools. She must remove some of the bottom siding and install flashing. - Paint vs. Stain for a Deck: Half of Teresa’s wood deck is painted and the other half is unfinished. She can paint over stain, but she can’t stain over paint. She’ll need to choose one or have a two-tone deck. - Glue Removal: Charlotte needs to remove glue that got on the new floor after it was installed, but she should use an adhesive remover carefully to avoid damaging the surface. - Pet Stains on Wood Floor: Oops! The dog had an accident on the wood floor that Mike plans to refinish. Sanding should cut through the stain before he adds coats of polyurethane.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Pressure Washers: Blast away dirt and doubts with tips for buying the right pressure washer. - Textured Surface Repair: Learn how to make hassle-free repairs to textured walls and ceilings. - Water Filters: Find out why water filters are a healthy and low-cost alternative to bottled water.   Q & A: - Driveway Drainage: Susan’s asphalt driveway was resurfaced but wasn’t pitched properly. She’ll need to install a curtain drain to keep water from collecting and backing up into the house. - Staining a Fence: Mark gets advice about the best methods and materials for staining a cedar wood fence at his condo association. - Radiant Heated Floor: Can you install a radiant heated floor yourself, will it increase electrical costs, and what materials should you use? We’ve got answers to all of Jeanette’s questions. - Tree Stumps and Roots: Bruce is worried about the stumps and roots from trees that were removed near his home. They shouldn’t impact his foundation but he gets tips on how to remove the stumps. - Wallpaper: Wallpaper is tough to remove, but Lisa gets info on tools she can use to make the process a bit easier. - Glass Block Windows: Mario gets suggestions on how to secure a new glass block window when mortar won’t adhere to the existing metal frame. - Terrazzo Floor Repair: Moisture is coming up through a crack in the terrazzo floor. Judith should check the drainage around the house and seal the crack with silicone. - Electrical Socket Failure: The ceiling fan and light work, but not the wall sockets. Joseph should check the light switches first, then call an electrician to inspect the wiring.  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. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Paver Patio Projects: New step stone options add style to paver patio projects. - Adding Insulation: Insulation tips to keep your home warm and your energy costs down. - Water-Saving Dishwashers: Learn how your dishwasher saves water, time, and money.   Q & A: - Old Vinyl Windows: Natalie’s vinyl windows won’t stay open anymore. Unless she can find parts for the broken springs, it may be time to replace the windows. - Wood Fence Posts: Should Sam treat his cedar fence posts? The best way to prevent the wood from rotting is to add stone around the fence post base to allow drainage. - Soundproofing Walls: To muffle the sound from the neighbors next door, Donna gets tips on adding a second layer of noise-resistant drywall and sealing any openings. - Removing Paint from Brick: Arthur is worried about stripping paint from old brick. He can test the product he’s using in an inconspicuous area to be sure it won’t damage the brick surface. - Fruit Flies: Lorna thinks the fruit flies in her kitchen are coming from the garbage disposal. We suggest putting tape over the drain to see if they stick underneath, then using bleach to pour down the drain. - Crawlspace Moisture: Hezakaiah has a moisture problem coming from his crawlspace. We tell him how to lay down a vapor barrier and improve his outside drainage. - Siding Nail Rust: Will the galvanized nails stop rusting the siding if Laura paints over them? Unfortunately, she should really use stainless steel nails instead and the rust is hard to cover up. - Refinishing a Deck: Jim needs to refinish a wood deck that wasn’t maintained. We recommend gentle pressure washing and using a paint sprayer to apply a solid stain. - Wood Countertops: Anne likes the look of wood countertops around her under-mount sink, but it’s not the best material to use and there are better low-maintenance options.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Small Bathrooms: Size doesn’t matter with these space-saving tips for small bathrooms. - Painting Over Mold: Find out how to clean and repaint surfaces the right way to keep mold from coming back. - Buying an Efficient Dryer: Choosing an efficient dryer will consume less energy and lower your electric bills.   Q & A: - Adding an HVAC System: How hard is it to add air conditioning? The ductwork is not that difficult and Courtney should certainly not remove her hot water baseboard heating to change the HVAC system. - Flooring Adhesive: Vito wants to install upcycled bathroom flooring, but it won’t stick. He should clean the subfloor well and use a grooved trowel to apply floor adhesive. - Worms: Lillian doesn’t like the garden worms coming into her patio after a rainfall, but they’re beneficial to the soil and we don’t recommend trying to get rid of them. - Foundation Drainage: After removing a large tree near his foundation, Mike is concerned about drainage. We offer tips on overfilling the area with clean fill dirt and diverting water away from the house. - Sealing Marble: Gary cleaned the stain from a marble tabletop and wants to know how to seal the surface. We suggest products that can polish and seal the marble. - Old Wood Walls: Remodeling an old home revealed beautiful American chestnut wood walls. It’s a rare find and James gets advice on sanding and refinishing the wood. - Tankless Water Heater: Sharon hopes a tankless water heater will heat the water faster. She will get an unlimited supply of hot water but may still need to add a bypass valve to recirculate hot water on a timer. - Matching Flooring: Char wants new bedroom flooring to complement the golden oak laminate in the other rooms. It’s a hard color to match and she should consider installing tile or carpet instead for a different look.    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Fireplace and Chimney Safety: Stop playing with fire and get tips on maintaining your fireplace and chimney. - Driveway Repair: Fall is a great time to fix and seal your cracked or worn driveway. - Indoor Air Quality: Learn the best way to breathe easier and clear the air of dust, pollen, and other allergens.   Q & A: - Chimney Repair: Someone suggested using roof cement to cover cracks in a chimney crown, but Bill should use a good silicone caulk sealant instead. - Flower Beds: Michelle wants to know how to place her flower bed. We recommend grading the soil away from the house before planting and not adding any borders that may impede drainage. - Deck Cleaning: A chemical reaction with a deck cleaning product left Andrew’s wood deck with a splotchy white film. He could use a spare piece of lumber to test a solid stain and see how well it will cover the filmy residue on the rest of the deck. - Crawlspace Odor: There’s a musty odor coming from the dirt crawlspace that opens into Bridget’s basement. She needs to lay down a plastic vapor barrier, check the outside drainage, and build a hatch to close the opening. - Air Conditioning Systems: What’s the cost of a new air conditioning unit? Steve should get estimates from a number of contractors because the price can vary widely. - Epoxy Flooring: Cindy wants to add speckles to her existing epoxy floor. As long as the first layer is adhering well, she can simply apply a second layer and add them. - Basement Moisture: Randall had a flooded basement and needs to reduce moisture. He doesn’t need vents but he should improve the drainage around his foundation and install a dehumidifier. - Electrical Openings: Catherine changed her mind about basement lighting and has holes where the outlets and fixtures were supposed to be. We offer advice about disconnecting the electrical wiring and how to cover the openings. - Sinking Porch: One side of Charles’ concrete porch has sunken in. He’ll need to break up the slab and redo the foundation before pouring a new cement porch.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: - Garage Organization Tips: Fall is the perfect time to get your garage organized and make room for off season storage. Tom & Leslie share tips to get your garage ready bikes, bats, lawnmowers and more. - Smart Tips for Purchasing a New Furnace. Whether your old furnace is shot, or you want a more efficient upgrade, buying a new furnace should never be an impulse buy. We’ll have tips for making smart choice to restore heat without burning a hole in your finances. - Ingenious Trick for Replacing Broken Ceramic Tiles. Ceramic tiles are durable and easy to care for, but what happens if one ceramic tile breaks, and you can’t find a replacement? We’ll share a trick-of-the-trade for a fast fix up. Plus, answers to home improvement questions about: - Deck Stain Won’t Stick. Get tips on how to restore deck stain that peels off shortly after its applied. - Bees Buzzing Your Food. If you’re frustrated by bees that buzz your outdoor meals or those of your pets, Tom shares a neat trick for keep them away from the food. - To Fix or Not to Fix a House You’re Selling. Find out why it may or may not make sense for you make repairs of improvement to your home before putting it on the market. - Crawlspace Ventilation. We help one listener sort though some potentially bad advice from a contractor with a conflict of interest. - Roof Repair Costs. We walk Rochelle though the process of figuring out if an estimate she received for repairs to her roof makes sense and share a resource where you can search for the average cost for hundreds of projects as a guide to determining if your estimate is in line. - LP Siding: John has a house with a siding that’s been the subject of a major class-action lawsuit. Toms explains the issues with deteriorating LP Siding, and a strategy on how to deal with it in a real estate transaction. - Hot Water Delays: Find out why it can take a long time for hot water to arrive when the tap is turned on. - Best Floor for an RV: Learn why today’s luxury and ridged vinyl plank floor products may be a perfect choice for an RV. - Spider Infestation: Johnin Delaware needs help dealing with a sever infestation of spiders in every room of his house! Tom walks him through the best options to make them bug out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Buying a Foreclosed Home: Is it a deal or a disaster to buy a foreclosed home? - DIY Stone Countertops: Get the expensive look of a natural stone countertop at a fraction of the cost with a DIY refinishing kit. - Installing Attic Flooring: Learn how installing attic flooring can add to your storage or weaken your structure.   Q & A: - Bad Odors: Jim can’t find the source of a strange odor in his new home. It may be bio-gases in the plumbing, but there are ways to clean out the bacteria. - Dishwasher Stops Working: The dishwasher fills but then suddenly stops. Darlene should check the float in the bottom of the dishwasher to see if it’s clogged. - Property Lines: How can you find your property line markers? Daniel’s home survey will show the boundaries, but it may be difficult to locate the metal corner pins. - Broken Sewage Pipe: A cracked sewage pipe ruined Helen’s basement. She’ll need a remediation company but the damage should be covered by her insurance policy. - Insulation: Marion’s old home has no insulation or vapor barriers. We’ve got tips on the best ways to insulate her house. - Damaged Hardwood Floor: A water leak left a soft spot in the hardwood floor. We suggest that Heather use a piece of hidden flooring to replace the damaged boards. - Leaking Toilet: An old-fashioned toilet tank keeps leaking. Fred should try using silicone to seal each connection and make his own gaskets.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: -      Planning a Kitchen Makeover: Having the right plans for a kitchen makeover is the recipe for success. -      Concrete Crack Repair: Get tips on how to fix cracked concrete and make the repairs last. -      Cleaning Range Vent Hoods: Gross grease can also be a hazard. Find out the best way to clean the vent hood over a stove.   Q & A: -      Insect Pests: Karen has questions about a bug zapper for her problem with flies. We recommend an insect trap that works well to eliminate flying pests. -      Driveway Drainage: Water that flows alongside the driveway is removing the sand and soil. Randy can dig out the dirt and fill the space with gravel that won’t wash away. -      Installing a Fence: Hope wants suggestions on materials to use for building a fence. She gets tips on attractive black fencing and how to build the footings. -      Garage Insulation: Is it a good idea to insulate a garage that will be air-conditioned? Yes, it is, and will help David save on heating and cooling costs. -      Adding a Bathroom: Where is the best place to add a second bathroom in your home? A second-floor bathroom will give Keri better value than a bathroom in the basement. -      Coal Fireplace: Is it safe to burn coal in a wood-burning fireplace? Ed learns that it’s definitely a fire hazard and that coal fireplaces are built differently. -      Musty Odors: Georgia smells musty odors in the room over her crawlspace. We suggest installing a vapor barrier and vent fans, plus checking for drainage issues and dead animals. -      Painting Wood Eaves: Paint is peeling from the wood eaves in Kelly’s old home. We have tips on how to strip, prime, and repaint the wood. -      Brick Repair: Brick and mortar is crumbling on the corner of Katherine’s home. She gets advice on how to dye and patch the brick and repair the mortar. -      Repairing Door Panels: Jeff wonders if he should repair a broken wood door panel or get a whole new door. A carpenter can easily replace the panel.   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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - DIY or Hire a Pro?: Do you have the DIY skills or should you pay for a professional contractor? How to decide. - Tap Water Safety: Tests can determine how safe your water is for cooking, drinking, and bathing. - Insulation: Cooler weather is a great time to find out if your home has enough insulation. YOUR QUESTIONS: - Rusty Washing Machine: Sherry’s washing machine dispenser is rusting. If it’s not that old, it’s worth getting a replacement part and having it repaired. - Insulation: Ed wants to insulate the gap between the drywall and masonry. It would be more effective to seal any drafts and add insulation to the attic. - Popcorn Ceiling: Can you clean a popcorn ceiling? Margaret won’t be able to clean it, but gets tips on how to remove the popcorn texture or repaint it. - Retaining Wall Materials: Should Robert use blocks or poured cement to build a retaining wall? Blocks are more attractive and less work but need to be installed properly for the retaining wall to last. - Weed Removal: Kim is fighting a weed problem and gets info about using plastic sheets, weed block, and spray products for her lawn. - Leaning Wall: A brick retaining wall is leaning forward from the soil that’s expanding and pushing against it. Howard gets options for replacing the wall. - Leaking Windows: Rain and bugs are coming inside Georgia’s leaking windows. They should be sealed with better flashing under the exterior siding. - Cracked Drywall: Drywall cracks are a common problem, but Patrick gets tips on using fiberglass tape and how to spackle over it to stop the cracks. - Woodpeckers: Knock, knock. Who’s there? Barb gets advice on how to scare away woodpeckers that keep tapping at her house. - DIY Fire Pit: James wants to build a DIY fire pit. We recommend a fire pit kit that includes all the materials he needs. - Cracks in Brick: A crack going up a brick wall may have many causes. Unless it’s an active crack, Judith can use silicone sealant to keep out damaging moisture. ASK A QUESTION: - Need answers to your own home improvement or decor 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: - Stump Removal: Get to the root of the problem of stump removal with these tips. - Squeaky Floors: Step quietly by fixing those annoying squeaky floors. - Buying Gutters: Installing the right gutters defends your home against water damage. Q & A: - Ceiling Stains: After fixing a roof leak, Sarah has ceiling stains. Using a good primer before painting will stop the stains from coming through. - Cement Caulk: Is there a caulk you can use to match a cement stamped patio? Tom will probably need to just use a clear caulk to seal the cracks. - Bathroom Tile: Is there an alternative for bathroom wall tile? Janet should consider a premade bathtub surround as an inexpensive and effective option. - Crawlspace: Bowen had better have a good reason for removing dirt from his crawlspace because exposing the footing could cause structural issues. - Cracked Concrete Floor: Lori has cracks in her concrete flooring. We recommend using a patching compound to make it look like new. - Uneven Floor: The uneven floor in John’s home addition is a problem. We offer suggestions for using a floor-leveling compound or a transition strip. - Installing a Flagpole: Linda is having trouble installing a flagpole to an aluminum column and gets info on using longer screws and a block for support. - Stained Countertops: How do you clean stains on a Corian countertop? Sharon should try making a cleaning paste and letting it sit to bleach the stains. ASK A QUESTION: - Need answers to your own home improvement or decor 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Open Floor Concept: Create an open design in an older home with a pass-through project. Smart Home Security: State-of-the-art home security systems defend your domain and grow with your family. Choosing a Paintbrush: Make DIY painting projects easier by choosing the right paintbrush for the job.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Building a Deck: Cheryl wants to build a deck over a concrete pad. We explain why that’s not a good foundation and how to build a proper footing. Plumbing Leaks: What should you do about pinpoint leaks in copper pipes? Mike should monitor the situation and replace the pipes as needed rather than remove the whole plumbing system. Cleaning a Vinyl Fence: Beverly wants to clean black marks off her white vinyl fence. She needs to find the source of the stains and use an abrasive pad with the right cleaner. Flooring Over Concrete: Wally gets advice on sealing cracks in his concrete floor to prevent moisture before installing a new floating floor over it. Installing Vinyl Siding: Should you use nails or screws to install vinyl siding? Beverly learns why to definitely use nails and how to allow the siding to expand. Water Sensors: Doug wants to know if a water sensor is a worthwhile investment. We agree that water sensors and leak detectors have smart technology that works well.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Lightning Protection: When lightning strikes, find out how to protect your home from storm damage. Stuck Windows: Get tips for opening and closing stubborn old windows that have you stuck. Buying a Grill: Here’s what to look for when shopping hot deals for a new grill. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Uneven Air Conditioning: One room is much warmer than the rest of the house. Stephanie can check the airflow at the registers and returns, add insulation, and install supplemental cooling to balance the heating and cooling. Attic Ventilation: Jim is worried about mold he found after insulating his attic. He needs to increase the attic ventilation by adding ridge and soffit vents. Bathtub Refinishing: The bathtub finish is starting to erode and can’t be touched up. Peggy gets info about an epoxy refinishing kit to do the whole tub. Metal Roof: Patrick is considering installing a metal roof. It’s a good investment that offers new technology, insurance savings, and energy rebates. Painting Fireplace: Should you paint a brick fireplace? Mary gets advice about using a good primer, having to repaint, and ideas to decorate around the brick. Cleaning a Covered Deck: Ed wants to clean his covered wood deck. We recommend a wood cleaner, but he’ll need to cover his tools so they don’t get wet. Adding a Deck Step: It’s a high step from Steve’s deck into his cabin. Adding a step will be helpful and he finds out the right size tread to build. Garage Floor Stains: How do you clean grease stains from a garage floor? Kathy gets tips on cleaning the stains with TSP and using an epoxy floor paint. Driveway Repair: An old asphalt driveway is worn and has big dips. It sounds like it’s time for Bonnie to tear it out and replace the driveway.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: End-of-Summer House Projects: Get info on 5 end-of-summer house projects to do now that will save time, money, and repairs later. Cooling a Home on a Budget: Learn low-cost to no-cost ways to reduce the heat in your home. Exterior House Painting: If you spray it, you can slay it with a paint sprayer that makes exterior house painting projects quicker and easier. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Central Vacuum: Condensation on the central vacuum pipes is ruining Sean’s walls. We suggest insulating the whole pipe to stop the drip. Shelving: Ellie needs tips on how to hang wall shelves. We have tips on how to properly anchor shelves to offer the right support. Radon Mitigation: Bob has questions about adding a radon fan. He should get a separate radon mitigation system that will pull the gas from under the entire slab of his home. HVAC Mold: Fluctuating temperatures cause mold in Betty’s ceiling vents. It may be only condensation that’s depositing dirt particles, but she should have an HVAC inspection to see about cleaning the duct system and replacing the filters. Tree Roots: Ashwani is concerned about the roots of big backyard trees near his home. There’s low risk if the trees are healthy, but he should consider thinning them out if the trees are crowded together. Cracked Ceramic Tiles: Can cracked ceramic floor tiles be fixed? They can’t, but Valerie can remove the damaged tiles and replace them with complementary ones. Vinyl Flooring: Angela wants to cover her old vinyl kitchen floor with paint. It’s not a good idea, but we offer options that are durable, affordable, and stylish. Bathroom Odors: Phew! There’s a sewer odor in Ted’s bathroom. He should check if the trap is properly vented and use bleach to eliminate bio-gases. Pool Deck Coating: Howard asks about paint for his concrete pool deck that won’t be slippery. We have tips for applying an anti-slip coating. Butcher Block Countertop: Eliza likes the look of a butcher block countertop, but we warn her that it’s a lot of work to maintain and guard against bacteria.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Maintenance: When the American dream is a DIY disaster: homeowners get failing grades for home maintenance skills. Dormant Lawn Care: Brown grass may be dormant, not doomed, with proper lawn care. Concrete Repair: Old, worn-out concrete comes back stronger than ever with a DIY concrete resurfacing product. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Kitchen Range: Cindy must protect her wood cabinets next to a large six-burner gas stove. We suggest getting installation specs from the manufacturer. Metal Roofing: How do you install a metal roof? It’s not an easy DIY project, but Perry gets tips on installing a metal roof that will last a lifetime. Septic System: What is the best way to maintain a septic system? We advise Emily to have it inspected and pumped regularly, avoid chemicals, and protect the septic field. Roots in Plumbing Lines: Roots under Larry’s home are growing into the sewer lines and separating the pipes. He should look into relining the pipe rather than breaking up the floor inside the house. Deck Paint: Oops! Emily used porch paint on her new deck. It’s actually not a problem as long as the paint is adhering well. Heating Flooring: What kind of floor should go over a heated concrete slab? Russ needs to use a radiant heat-compliant product, such as stone-based flooring. Wood Paneling: Ashley has wood paneling with no drywall underneath. We tell her how to remove it, replace the insulation, and install moisture-proof drywall. House Flies: Yuck! Mike’s got fly poop all over his siding that won’t come off. We suggest a cleaning product to use and getting a pest control professional to control the problem with flies. Wet Basement: Beverly needs help with her wet basement and finds out how to improve the outside drainage with better grading, gutters, and downspouts. Cracked Brick Wall: There’s a long, wide crack in the brick wall behind Jim’s garage. He needs a structural engineer to find out if it’s an active crack. Smoke Odors: After the previous homeowner left smoke odors behind, Lois should use an oil-based primer on the walls, subfloors, and ceiling to seal in the smell before painting the rooms.    Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Storm Shutters: Besides adding style, find out how real storm shutters protect your home from the elements. Front Door: Attractive front doors make lasting first impressions that add curb appeal and value to your home. Awnings: Learn how updated awnings extend your outdoor living space and offer energy savings to your home. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Toilet Noises: Kathy’s toilet squeals when the washing machine runs. It could be caused by a blockage or a bad fill valve. Sidewalk Gaps: Robert has gaps between the slabs of his concrete walkway. He gets tips on using a backer rod and a caulk sealant to close up the spaces. Brick Patio: The attractive brick edge of a concrete patio needs to be restored. Grace gets advice on re-mortaring the bricks and options for refinishing the patio surface. Wood Furniture: Faux leather cushions have stained a beautiful wood couch. James can sand and seal the slats and cover the cushions with a fabric that won’t stick to the wood. Toilet Stain: A dirty residue keeps returning to Cindy’s toilet. We suggest using a different commercial cleaner or installing a self-cleaning toilet. Water Heater: One end of the house is getting less hot water than the other. Stewart can either install a second water heater or a hot water recirculating system. Roof Rejuvenation: Debbie is curious about a company that claims to extend the life of an old roof. We confirm that it’s an effective option to treat dried-out shingles and save you money. Brick Foundation: Areas of the brick foundation in a Victorian home are starting to bow out. Ed should consult with a structural engineer about repair options.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Bathroom Upgrades: Upgrade your bathroom on a budget with easy projects that cost less than $500. Silencing Water Hammer: Get tips for fixing water hammer to stop noisy plumbing pipes and the risk of damage and leaks. Stone-Based Liquid Flooring: Give indoor and outdoor floors and other surfaces the look of granite with a DIY product that’s easy to apply. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Converting an Old Tub: Caitlyn wants to preserve an old clawfoot bathtub and add a shower head. We advise having it professionally re-enameled, but installing a shower kit should be easy to do herself. Hardwood Flooring: How much space should John leave between new hardwood flooring and the drywall? We suggest about a half inch and offer tips for acclimating the new flooring to the room. Metal Roof: Charlene is deciding between asphalt and metal for her shallow roof. She doesn’t have the right pitch for shingles and a metal roof is a great investment. Porch Decking: Ray’s wraparound porch decking was not maintained, but we have info on applying a solid color stain that is durable and long-lasting. Deck Ceiling Paint: After power washing her deck, Blair needs to repaint the wood deck ceiling. She should prime it first and then apply a latex paint or solid stain. Attic Insulation: Jeff wonders what kind of insulation to add to his unfinished attic. We’ll explain how he should lay insulation batts over the joists and existing material. Mold Stains: A bathroom leak left a ceiling stain that looks like mold. Wendy can test the area to be sure, then use a bleach solution to clean it before priming and painting it again. Nail Stains on Siding: Rust from inferior galvanized nails is staining Brian’s wood siding. He can try sanding down the areas and using a better primer before repainting. Wood Paneling: Rebecca wants to change the look of old wood paneling. She can either sand, prime, and paint it or add a layer of drywall over it.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Makeovers: Cook up some quick and easy kitchen makeovers that can be done over a weekend. Roof Inspections: Find roof leaks before they find you with a thorough roof inspection. Gas Grills: If you’re savoring the thought of a new gas grill, get tips on the features worth having.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Chipmunks: Chipmunks are much cuter outdoors, so Linda gets tips on how to seal up the gaps in her metal buildings to keep them from getting inside. Limescale Buildup: Greg’s having trouble cleaning the limescale buildup on his glass shower doors. Vinegar should remove it unless it’s really another stain or scratches. Floor Joists: Laura wants to add support to the kitchen floor under an appliance. We offer info about installing girder beams to reduce the bounce of the floor. Converting to Gas: Abram wants to replace an electric dryer with a gas dryer. It should be easy for a plumber to tap into the gas line and make sure it’s safe. Industrial Floor: Linda needs suggestions for flooring in an industrial building. She’ll need to remove loose paint from the old cement floor and then apply two-part epoxy paint for a durable surface. Uneven Deck: A floating deck that’s covering a cistern is heaving and uneven. Steve should take the deck apart, reframe it with better footings, and consider using composite materials with an access panel for the cistern. Concrete Basement Floor: The concrete basement floor is crumbling and flaking. Mary should improve her outside drainage first, then use a cement patching compound and some epoxy floor paint to seal the surface. Leaking Roof: Rain is leaking through the roof where it connects to the wall of an addition. We tell Steve how to remove the siding and improve the flashing to seal the space. Radiant Heated Floor: Jeanette has questions about installing radiant heated flooring in her bathroom and kitchen. It can be expensive to install and to run, but we have tips on using a timer and getting a contractor to do it right.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Centipedes: Get a leg up on banishing fast and freaky thousand-legger centipedes inside your home. Micro-Irrigation: Tiny drops produce big blooms with micro-irrigation for your garden. Paint Sprayers: New paint sprayer technology gets DIY paint projects done faster, easier, and with less waste. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. HVAC Blockage: Barely any air blows through one room in Leroy’s home. He gets tips on how to look for a duct blockage or a closed damper. Firepit Mortar: Michelle is building a fieldstone firepit but the mortar is dry and cracking. We suggest putting plastic over the surface to slow down the drying time and recommend some good products and videos. Lead Paint: Lauren is worried about lead in the paint that’s chipping and flaking in her old home. She needs to work with a painter who’s certified in lead paint containment to make sure her kids are safe. Water Heater: What is the slight leak coming from the PVC tube at the top of the water heater? Michael learns it’s just a pressure relief valve, but his old water heater should still be replaced. Converting a Deck: Diane wants to turn her deck into a closet and laundry room. It’s a good idea, but she should consult with an architect since it can be a complicated addition. Plumbing Noises: There’s a clicking noise behind the bathroom and closet. It’s probably pipes or metal siding expanding and contracting against Damian’s walls. Floor Moisture: Water is coming up from the concrete slab under Michelle’s laminate floor. She should check the drainage outside the house and use an exhaust fan with a humidistat to reduce condensation. Split Outlet: Why does the bottom plug work in an outlet but the top one doesn’t? Chris may have a split outlet that’s partly controlled by a switch. Popping Nails: Nails are popping out of the sheetrock near the ceiling and corners. We advise Bob to either replace the nails with drywall screws or overlap the existing nail heads with the heads of new nails.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Patio Makeover: Old, worn concrete patios get new life with an easy DIY paver makeover. Preventing Bathroom Mold: Keep bathroom mold and mildew at bay by reducing moisture with these ventilation tips. Garage Door Styles: Attractive garage doors add immediate curb appeal with updated styles to complement your home. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Cleaning Brick: Mortar stains are hard to remove, but Gail gets tips on how to safely use a stiff wire brush or drill attachment without damaging the brick. Cracked Tile Floor: Dan’s tile floor is probably cracking because it wasn’t installed properly. He can replace them as needed or replace the tile floor after installing a flexible uncoupling membrane underneath. Faulty Closet Light: Ming has a closet door light that doesn’t come on and sometimes arcs. That’s a fire hazard that needs to be replaced immediately. Leaking Windows: Water is leaking through the top of the windows under a rotting gutter. After fixing the gutter and fascia, Dan should monitor the leak to see if he needs to remove the siding and replace the flashing. Updating a Bathroom: The dated green tiles around Peg’s bathtub have got to go! A whole bathroom renovation may be a better option than painting, reglazing, or adding a fiberglass insert. Plumbing Noises: There’s a loud banging in the basement whenever someone uses the toilet, shower, or laundry. Nicole may need to secure the pipes, install a water hammer arrestor, and check the well pump. Replacing Soffits: Mike is thinking of replacing the soffits on his garage with Hardie plank, but we advise him to use a different material in a color that complements the siding. GFCI Outlets: Do GFCI outlets need their own circuit breakers? The circuit breaker is actually built into the outlet and Belinda can use an outlet tester to be sure they’re grounded. Bathroom Mold: Bathroom mold keeps coming back, no matter what Matt does to remove it. He gets tips on improving the ventilation and using caulk with mildewcide.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Deck Safety: Avoid outdoor disasters by recognizing the 5 causes of dangerous deck collapses. Storing Paint: Leftover paint can be useful, but only if it’s stored properly. Find out when it’s time to can those paint cans. Window Screens: Let fresh air in and keep insects out with updated options for window screens.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Driveway and Deck Sealants: Bill wants to know if he needs to seal his new concrete driveway or his pressure-treated deck. We’ve got tips for both. Musty Odors: There’s a musty odor coming from the slab foundation in a home that was vacant. We advise Mary to pull up the carpet, improve the outside drainage, and start using the HVAC and a dehumidifier to clear the air. Fascia Board: Should Martin repair or replace a fascia board that’s separating under his porch roof? He just needs to resecure it with screws instead of nails. Popcorn Ceilings: Ben needs to repair damaged areas of his popcorn ceiling. We explain how to replace some of the texture and repaint the ceiling. HVAC Odors: There’s an odor when the air conditioning comes on. Jeff can start with duct cleaning, but should also use a good-quality HVAC filter with activated charcoal. Wood Playground: A pressure-treated wood playground is cracking and turning black. Erin gets tips on a product to clean the wood, using a solid stain, and safe surfaces. Wet Drywall: After an under-sink water filter bursts, Richard’s not sure if he needs to replace the drywall. It’s not necessary if it’s dried out and not warped. Converting a Tub to a Shower: Mil needs to convert a tub to a shower but can’t find a fiberglass unit that’s rated for the proper weight. Adding a mortar mix underneath the shower pan will provide a rock-solid base. Flood Repair: A flash flood left a foot of water in Gary’s basement. We go through the steps to get rid of the water, remove damaged items, clean the surfaces, and dry out the space before starting over. Painting a Fireplace: Susan would like to paint her brick fireplace but there’s tile on top of it. She should consider using a special primer and painting the tile, too. Restoring Old Flooring: Is it possible to restore a dingy old kitchen floor? After 20 years, it sounds like it’s time for Harry to update the floor with new materials.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Pet-Friendly Backyard: Enjoy the outdoors with your furry friends by creating a pet-friendly backyard. UV Sun Damage: Find out how to defend your floors and furnishings against damaging sunlight. Staining a Fence: Learn the best way to spruce up your fence for maximum curb appeal.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Installing a Ceiling Fan: James wants to add ceiling fans in rooms with no overhead lighting. It’s not hard, but it’s an easier job for an electrician to do. Kitchen Flooring: Patrilla would like new kitchen flooring to install over sheet linoleum. Engineered vinyl plank or laminate are beautiful and durable options. Insulation: An attic with minimal fiberglass insulation needs more. Albert finds out spray foam insulation is an excellent choice that expands, seals, and has a much better R-value. Old Plumbing: When one shower is used, another one goes cold. Tammy needs a plumber to check the old steel pipes and the water pressure from the street. Wood Floor Care: Old pine and oak wood floors are hard to clean and protect. We advise Margaret to use a natural cleaner that won’t damage the wood. Matching Paint Colors: Dante hasn’t been able to match the color of a repainted area in a small room. It’s easier to prime and repaint the whole wall. Leaking HVAC System: Leah’s split ductless HVAC system is leaking freon. She needs to find the source of the leak instead of adding more refrigerant. Water in Garage: Water running downhill is coming into Butch’s garage. He should build a curtain drain and pitch it away from the garage to divert the water. Leaking Roof: A roof leak is probably coming through a pipe from Judy’s bathroom. Replacing the flashing around the pipe should be an easy fix.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Decorating on a Budget: Get 5 money-saving ideas for sprucing up your home without spending a fortune. Backyard Water Features: Make a splash by creating your own backyard water feature. Garage Sales: One person’s trash is someone else’s treasure, so get ready for a successful garage sale. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Dehumidifiers: A heat pump is not designed to remove humidity, but Pat may consider using a whole-house dehumidifier to remove moisture in the air. Drainage: Vince has water coming through the concrete floor in his three-season room. He should install a curtain drain to intercept and discharge the water. Pool Repairs: An old pool has deck cracks and some exposed rebar. There are products Barb can use to repair and refinish the problem areas. Garage Door Opener: Bob wants advice on getting a surge protector for a faulty garage door opener. It’s an unusual problem but we recommend a good brand to look into. Kitchen Sink Styles: Kathy is considering replacing her double kitchen sink with a single sink. It’s a personal preference, but a single bowl offers more space and convenience. Soundproofing: What’s the best way to soundproof an upstairs movie room? Jerry gets tips on using soundproofing drywall and sealing gaps to muffle the sounds. HVAC Upgrade: Is it worth upgrading a radiant heating system in an old home? A heat pump is more affordable and efficient, but it may not be necessary if Janey is about to sell the house. Kitchen Range Vent: Cold wind blows through the vent over David’s kitchen range. He needs to check the gasket, seal, flashing, and vent door springs. Asbestos: Maryann is worried about finding asbestos when pulling up an old linoleum floor. It should not be an issue, but she can have it tested for asbestos to be sure.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Concrete Countertops: Learn why durable and versatile concrete countertops are a popular trend. Rental Costs: As rent prices skyrocket, find out 7 ways to make your rent more affordable. Summer Storage: More summer fun means more summer stuff! Get tips for cutting the clutter. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Musty Porch Odors: There’s a musty smell in Anna’s unheated closed-in porch. We advise pulling out the unneeded insulation, then cleaning and airing out the walls. Electrical Outlet: Steve discovers one outlet that has no current in the wiring. He needs to call an electrician to trace the source of the outage. Retaining Walls: A significant slope in the yard makes it hard to mow and use the space. A landscape architect can help Alex plan the right kind of retaining wall. Synthetic Brick: What are the pros and cons of synthetic brick for a home’s exterior? We agree it’s a good idea and recommend some products to Alice. Cleaning Stainless Steel: Phillip has tried everything to clean his stainless steel sink, but it may be a chemical reaction discoloration that cleaning won’t help. Squeaky Door: When oil, WD-40, and new hinges don’t help, Sandy should look for upgraded ball-bearing hinges to quiet her squeaky door. Japanese Beetles: When Japanese beetles infest his trees and bushes, Hugh needs a pest control professional who can properly and safely apply pesticides. Porch Screens: Pam’s vinyl porch screens keep blowing out in the wind. We recommend installing smaller sections of a heavier gauge metal screen. Cleaning Exterior Mold: Mold under the soffit may really be moss or algae. Tim can use a cleaning product that he can spray and forget to clean it away.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Tick Prevention: Get important tips for staying safe from tick-borne diseases. Small Bathroom Space: If you have a small bathroom, find out how to maximize every inch of space. Roof Rejuvenation: Summer heat and sunshine dry out roof shingles, but there’s a way to give new life to an old roof.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Sink Odors: Yvonne learns how to clean out the bacteria that are causing a foul odor in her bathroom sink. Low-E Windows: How effective are Low-E windows? We assure Bruce that being able to reflect the sun’s UV rays will reduce heat and save on cooling costs. Ceramic Tile Flooring: Sandy’s finding it hard to clean her old ceramic floor with worn-out glaze. We have ideas on how to cover it. Leaking Roof: Mike is dealing with a leaking roof and gets advice on how to find the leak and figure out repairs. Bathtub Cracks: Bill’s old bathtub is cracked. We discuss options for a bathtub repair kit, a bathtub cover, or replacing the tub. Oven Cleaning: Gail wants to know how to clean the space inside the glass on her oven door. She may need to disassemble it. Clogged Bathtub Drain: Mary’s plumber can’t figure out why her bathtub is draining slowly. We recommend calling a professional who specializes in clearing drains.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Front Porches: Learn how porches are making a comeback for year-round living space and outdoor relaxation. Window Air Conditioners: Find out the right way to install a window air conditioner to cool your home quicker and more efficiently. Extending Roof Life: Instead of replacing them, there’s a way to restore dried-out asphalt roof shingles and extend the life of your roof.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Firepits: Katherine wants a homemade fire pit. We discuss options for portable metal fire pits and DIY kits to build a fire pit with bricks or pavers. Getting Rid of Spiders: Daddy long-leg spiders have taken over Will’s garage. We suggest natural repellents, sticky traps, and vacuuming up the spiders and nests. Whole House Fans: Instead of relying on ceiling fans and the AC fan, Marie gets information on installing a whole house fan to keep her house cool. Bathroom Venting: Butch needs to redirect a bathroom vent in his attic so that it goes outside the house. We’ve got tips on where to locate it. Jacuzzi Bathtub: Robin’s got multiple issues with her jacuzzi bathtub about mold in the pipes and faded fixtures. We have some answers to help. Rotten Egg Smell: Dave has a rotten egg smell in his house. It may be coming from a bad anode rod in his water heater or high sulfur content in the water. Moldy Odors: A den over the garage smells moldy after it rains. Gail needs to reduce moisture with better drainage and ventilation, plus a whole-house dehumidifier. Water Treatment: Recurring rust stains on a concrete pool deck may be coming from iron in the groundwater that pools on the surface. Doug should put an iron filter in his sprinkler system to reduce the deposits and stains. Replacement Windows: What type of window is best: vinyl, wood, or composite? Ellie’s first priority should be finding the most energy-efficient windows before choosing the material.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Saving Water: Conserving water and lowering costs is made simple with water-saving fixtures and faucets. Gravel Garden Path: Great gardens deserve perfect pathways around them. Get tips on creating a DIY gravel garden path. Exterior House Painting: It’s a big job, but you can paint your home’s exterior a lot faster and easier with an airless paint sprayer.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Banishing Bats: Pests in Keith’s attic are driving him batty! We’ve got tips on creating bat doors with screen flaps to let the bats out and keep them out. Cracked Foundation: The concrete slab foundation has cracks and the kitchen floor is starting to dip. Rochelle should hire a structural engineer or home inspector to determine whether it’s serious and how to fix it. Refinishing Hardwood Floor: Is a French polish a good option for a hardwood floor? Theresa gets advice on a better, more durable way to refinish her floor. Buckling Vinyl Siding: Earl’s vinyl siding is buckling and bending because it was installed too tightly to allow it to expand and contract, but he can redo it. Flagstone Patio: Stones in a flagstone patio are sticking up. Darlene should tamp down the base under them and add crushed gravel between the pavers. Chimney Stucco: Anthony’s chimney is losing stucco and bricks are coming loose. We suggest a product that adheres well to old concrete and brick. Laminate Countertops: Frankie wants to refinish her old laminate countertop and learns about a coating product that easily provides a whole new look. Bad Contractors: After a brick mason contractor does a bad job and takes her money, Oralee gets info about pressing charges for theft and fraud. Carpenter Bees: When carpenter bees keep coming back, Kevin needs to hire a pest control professional and replace areas of wood with composite materials. Washing Machine Noise: What’s that banging noise in the new washing machine? Holly should either level the machine and use anti-vibration blocks or install a water hammer arrestor.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Cleaning Your Washing Machine: Laundry looking lackluster? Find out how to get cleaner clothes by cleaning your washing machine. Energy-Efficient Windows: Air conditioning is lost through drafty windows. Upgrade your windows to cut cooling costs. Home Security: Don’t make this common DIY mistake that puts your home at risk for break-ins.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Tree Roots: Tree roots are making it hard to mow. If Harris doesn’t want to remove the tree, he can create a mulch bed or an attractive bench around it. Smoke Odors: Lingering smoke odors were left behind by the former owner. Eve needs a good primer to seal all the walls and floors after cleaning everything. Wood Gutters: George can’t find replacement sections for his old wood gutters. We recommend a company that makes beautiful, maintenance-free wood-style fiberglass gutters. Cracked Cement Patio: Alicia is concerned about the cracked cement patio. She can clean out the old caulk and reseal it or install attractive pavers over the concrete. Basement Flooring: Justin wants ideas for a basement floor that has layers of paint. We suggest luxury vinyl planks that are waterproof, durable, inexpensive, and easy to install over the existing floor. Cleaning Cabinets: Wood cabinets above the stove hood are covered in residue. We advise Margie to use a grease remover or citrus cleaner. Painting Doors: Paint is peeling off Tom’s wood doors and baseboard. He needs to strip off the old paint and use an oil-based primer to get proper adhesion for a fresh coat.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Pool Safety for Kids: Pool safety always begins with supervision, plus these crucial measures help prevent child drownings. Water Odors: Why does your water smell like rotten eggs? We’ve got solutions for stinky water. Preventing Roof Leaks: Detecting roof leaks before they happen heads off bigger problems. Here’s what to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Painting Kitchen Countertops: Sheila is considering painting her kitchen countertops. We agree it’s an affordable, attractive, and durable option. Water Heater Replacement: Steve’s electric water heater leaks. He can replace it with a standard unit or a heat pump water heater that is more efficient. Squirrels: Sneaky squirrels are chewing holes in the bird feeder. Priscilla needs to make the bird feeder unappealing or unreachable to keep squirrels away. Dryer Vent: A disconnected dryer vent is a fire hazard and creates moisture that makes attic insulation less efficient. Cody must fix and redirect the dryer vent ASAP. Concrete Stains: June has metal bench stains on the porch and car stains in the garage. We give her tips on using TSP to lighten the concrete stains. Wood Deck Boards: Should deck boards be replaced or refinished? Rob can turn some of them over, replace the worst ones, and use a good solid stain. Bathtub Repair: Best remedy for a chipping fiberglass bathtub? Jan can use a fiberglass tub and tile repair kit. Shifting Floor Tiles: Tiles are shifting and grout is coming out in Barbara’s heated bathroom floor. She can either repair them as needed with floor adhesive or replace the entire floor and heating coils. Efflorescence: Efflorescence caused by mineral salt deposits is making Ted’s cinderblock basement walls crumble and flake. He should improve the drainage outside the house first and then use vinegar to clean the walls before repainting. Cleaning a Popcorn Ceiling: How can you refresh a popcorn ceiling? Nancy needs a dry feather duster to remove any cobwebs and a special roller to repaint the ceiling. Septic System: A sinkhole is developing near Brian’s septic system. A septic system inspector can tell him if it’s a potential failure of the septic field.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Improvement Advice: Are social media hacks for home improvement really helping? Find out what one survey says. New Caulk Products: Learn about a new line of caulk that’s easy to use and as good as silicone. Summer Insulation: Effective insulation can seal summertime drafts that increase air conditioning costs.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Circuit Breakers: Why does the air conditioner keep tripping the circuit breaker? Marcie may need a dedicated circuit if the appliance is pulling too much power. HVAC: Michael’s roof-mounted HVAC system wasn’t properly insulated. We’ve got tips on insulating the ducts to reflect UV radiation and lower energy costs. Kitchen Cabinet Odors: Carolyn cleaned mold from inside her cabinet but it still smells. She should look for hidden mold she may have missed and apply a clear finish or primer to seal the surface. Laminate Countertops: Are laminate kitchen cabinets a good choice? We agree that Terry can find a laminate surface that looks great at a fraction of the cost. Trees and Foundations: Lynn is worried about nearby trees damaging her home foundation. She can watch for cracks, but it shouldn’t be a problem. Mold In Windows: Lots of condensation is causing mold in the channels of the windows. It will take regular maintenance to keep them clean and dry, and Don may need to replace the windows eventually.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Cooling Your Home: Beat the heat and save money with free ways to cool your home. Installing Tile: Get your tiling project done faster and cleaner with this trick of the trade. Paint Sprayer: New airless paint sprayer technology lets you paint smarter without working harder.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Soundproofing: Darlene wants to block out noise between the apartment walls. Mineral wool insulation and sound-deadening drywall will help keep things quiet. Loose Tiles: When floor tiles come loose, Tony finds out how to remove them, replace the grout, and use mastic adhesive to reset the tiles again. Brick Steps: How can Mia remove worn carpet that’s glued to her brick steps? It would be much easier to install pavers or outdoor ceramic tile over the steps. Tin Roof: It’s getting hot under the tin roof on Dan’s screened porch! We suggest applying radiant barrier paint to the top of the roof to reflect the heat. Window Condensation: The picture windows are all fogged up from trapped moisture. There’s no remedy for thermal pane seals that fail, so Sally will have to live with the foggy view or replace the windows. Peeling Vinyl Floor: Areas of the sheet vinyl flooring are peeling up and glue’s not working. Anna should consider replacing the floor with luxury vinyl planking. Whole House Fan: The spray foam is working great in Phil’s house but there are times he’d like to use the whole house fan. He should construct a duct from the fan to a gable vent to bypass the attic. Tree Roots Under a Patio: Should Courtney build a brick patio near damaging tree roots? She needs to either get rid of the roots or build a deck above grade. Concrete Driveway Repair: What’s the right way to replace a sunken area of a concrete driveway? It’s most important for Larry to compact crushed gravel well enough to make a solid base before pouring new concrete over it. Metal Roof: Should you install a metal roof over existing shingles? Darlene learns why it’s a very bad idea that could damage her investment. Deck Stain: Why does the stain on horizontal deck surfaces wear out so fast? John should replace the semi-transparent stain with longer-lasting solid stain.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Saving Water Costs: Greener grass doesn’t have to waste water. Learn how to get a lusher lawn without paying bigger bills. Choosing Caulk: Latex or silicone? Find out how to choose the right caulk for your project. Kids’ Rooms: Fun furnishings lend organization, style, and safety to a child’s room. Get some kid-friendly redecorating ideas.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Moles: The moles under the patio are drawn to the grubs they love to eat. Michelle learns how to get rid of the grubs so she can get rid of the moles. Deck Refinishing: A restoration product on Joe’s wood deck is peeling off instead. Installing composite replacement boards is a great option. Clogged Drain: Where is the clog that’s making Mary’s bathtub drain so slowly? She needs to get a plumber that specializes in drain cleaning. Hard Water: It’s a challenge to clean out all the calcium deposits left by hard water at Jim’s house. He may need to install a water filtration system. Metal Roofing: Installers improperly nailed a new metal roof into the valleys instead of the ridges, causing leaks. Mercedes can either replace the flashing around the valleys or caulk the holes for a temporary fix.  Pest Control: Nils is finding all kinds of pests in and around his historic home. He needs a pest control professional for the right solutions for multiple issues. Painting Wood Posts: Beverly wants to paint her cedar porch posts white to match the house trim. Oil-based primer and a solid color stain will work fine. Garage Floor: Gordon has a wet garage floor. He can reduce the moisture by improving the drainage around the foundation and using an epoxy paint sealant. Sticking Doors: Is sanding the only option for a sticking door? Taylor gets tips on figuring out where it’s uneven and adjusting screws and hinges to fix it.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Building a Shed: If you need outdoor storage solutions, get 4 pro tips for building a backyard shed. Energy Bills: Seeing your energy bills go up? Watch out for these 4 factors that drive up costs. Anti-Slip Surfaces: Using an anti-slip coating can prevent dangerous slips and falls on indoor and outdoor surfaces.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Reclaimed Wood Floor: Tim needs a clear finish for his reclaimed wood floor. We suggest a durable oil-based polyurethane with a finish that hides scratches. Patio Makeover: After removing a deck, Fonda wants to redesign the remaining cement pad. We have ideas on using brick pavers for a patio makeover. Basement Walls: Bowing basement walls can be a severe problem affecting the structure and value of Rob’s home. He needs to call a structural engineer. Shower Grout: Replacing grout is a headache, but Victoria finds out she can just try to match the area that’s falling out instead of regrouting the entire shower. Efflorescence: Jerry’s basement is dried out but he still has efflorescence on the cement walls. A mix of hot water and vinegar will remove the mineral deposits. Replacing Sod: After the sod failed, Catherine wants to reseed the lawn. She should get the soil tested first to find out what kind of fertilizer she needs. Plumbing: How can defective Kitec plumbing be replaced? The only solution is for Elvis to replace any pipes that are accessible before they get worse. Patio Doors: If your sliding doors or windows are sticking, Steve is a master carpenter with a suggestion on what to use instead of white lithium grease.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Building a Fire Pit: Relaxing around a backyard campfire is made easy with a DIY fire pit. Social Front Yards: Curb appeal meets social appeal when you create an inviting social front yard that’s functional and attractive. Paint Sprayers: Reduce waste and cut painting time by a third with high-efficiency paint sprayers that make paint projects easier.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Window Leaks: Installers should have used concrete block to stop water from getting trapped under Martha’s new picture window. We have tips on improving the drainage to prevent leaks. Plumbing Odors: Phew! Gary has a bad odor coming from his bathroom drains and learns what to do to eliminate the bio-gases that are causing it. Driveway Replacement: Susan is considering options for her 38-year-old driveway. It’s time to tear it up and pour a new asphalt driveway. Deck Upgrades: Should you replace just the boards or the whole frame on an old deck? Mike needs to replace the entire structure but can use composite decking materials for the surface. Wet Basement: Paul wants to finish the basement but it leaks at times after a heavy rain. We’ll tell him how to improve the drainage outside the house. Squirrels: Squirrels making you nuts? We give Alison advice on how to humanely trap and relocate the squirrel that’s living in her basement ceiling. Wood Fencing: John’s pressure-treated wood fence is already getting soft and rotted. We suspect the pressure treatment was not done well or he got poor-quality wood. Condensation on Walls: Judy noticed moisture halfway down the basement walls she’s repainting. She should check the outside drainage and install a dehumidifier. Moles: Moles are damaging the yard at Kim’s house. If she gets rid of the grubs that are their food source, she’ll get rid of the moles.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Summertime Home Checklist: Get your home ready for summer with 4 easy projects for your outdoor living. Stepping Stone Pathway: We’ve got step-by-step instructions on how to create the perfect stepping stone pathway. Roof Leaks: The best way to fix a roof leak is to detect them before they happen. Here’s what to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Painting Wood Siding: What’s the best way to paint T1-11 siding? Sean learns that a quality primer is important and a paint sprayer can make the job easier. Sliding Door Tracks: Tracy’s got hardened grit in her sliding door tracks. We suggest a stiff brush and a vacuum to remove the gunk and using some white lithium grease on the tracks. Deck Stain: Scott wants to use a transparent stain on his cedar deck. He should consider a solid deck stain that will last longer and cover the lumber mill stamps. Sealing Tile: Do you need to seal glazed ceramic floor tiles? Laurel should only need to use silicone-based grout sealant as soon as the tile is installed. Types of Insulation: How do choose between open-cell and closed-cell insulation? Mark finds out the advantages of each. Metal Roofing: Russ wants to install a metal roof on his big old barn. A professional roofer can attach it to the existing furring strips and deal with the steep pitch of the roof. Motion Sensor Light Switch: Can you add a motion sensor on two-way room switches? We explain how Pam can do it and what mode to use. Flies: Nels is getting pestered by flies coming from the furnace return ducts. He should ask a pest expert about a possible nest in the house. Bathroom Mold: Those black spots on the bathroom wall look like mold. Heather gets tips on using a bleach solution, a bath exhaust fan, and mildewcide. Cracking Concrete: The edges of the cement porch are cracking and crumbling. Cheryl can either resurface the entire porch or use a cement patching product.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Roof Inspection: Find out what’s included in a roof inspection to ensure peak performance. Pet-Friendly Home Improvements: From “ruff” to remarkable, get ideas for pet-friendly home improvements. Hybrid Sealants and Caulks: Choosing the right caulk is easy with hybrid sealants that work for every project. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Gardening: What kind of plants will grow best in shady areas? We tell Janna a few common shade-friendly plants and a nursery may have more options. Painting Cabinets: What preparation is needed to paint wood cabinets? Brian gets step-by-step advice on how to smooth, prime, and paint the surface. Carpenter Ants: Anna had a tree removed that was infested with carpenter ants and is worried they’ll now enter her home. We assure her it’s not likely to happen. Iron Railings: David needs to pour a cement footing for a new wrought iron rail. We offer an idea for an easy way to do it. Electrical Upgrades: Is it worth replacing a 150-amp electrical system with 200 amps? We tell Alice it’s unnecessary unless she’s using a lot more power. Building a Sandbox: Laurie wonders if she should be using something other than sand in her grandkids’ sandbox. All she needs is a cover to keep the sand clean and dry. Cleaning Garage Floor: Oops! Dennis dropped a container of roofing cement in his garage. It will take some work to scrape it off and he’ll probably need to restain the cement floor. Water Heaters: Mary is considering getting a tankless water heater, but we explain why she should switch to a heat pump water heater with a timer instead.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Patio vs. Deck: Should you build a deck or a patio to expand your outdoor living space? How to decide. Noise-Reducing Landscaping: Shush your surroundings with strategic landscaping to block outside noises. Termites: Are those termites eating away at your home? How to identify them and keep your house off the menu.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Portable Air Conditioner: Thomas’ portable air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breakers. He needs a dedicated 20-amp circuit to power it up. Sealing Concrete: A flood left cracks in the basement cement floor. Bonnie gets advice on using silicone and a two-part epoxy product to repair the cracks. Glue Removal: Adhesive tiles over the wood floor left glue residue. Greg may need a professional floor refinisher to remove the glue with the right tools. Basement Flooring: Mary wants suggestions on replacing the carpeting in her basement. Laminate or engineered hardwood flooring would be good options. Porch Ceiling: Richard wants to waterproof the porch under an upper deck. He can use an underdeck drain system or fiberglass decking to keep things dry. Shower Mold: Donna has tried everything to get rid of the mold in a shower. Better ventilation and a commercial cleaner to cut the soap scum should help. Crown Molding: Is there an easy way to attach crown molding in the space above cabinets? Brian gets tips on attaching a wood screwing strip to hold the molding in place.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Pet Doors: Who let the dogs out? Tips for installing the best and most convenient pet doors. Concrete Repairs: This product makes it easy to repair holes, cracks, and pitted areas of concrete surfaces. Quick Home Improvement Projects: No time to waste? These 3 home improvement hacks take a half hour or less. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Cracked Cement Patio: Part of Debbie’s new cement patio cracked right away. She can make some cosmetic repairs or have it torn out and repoured with better surface preparation underneath. Tripped Circuits: Richard’s antique soda machine trips the circuit every time it’s plugged in. He needs to install a dedicated circuit for that big draw of electrical current. Home Addition: Joan has big plans for an enclosed space for her cats. We recommend hiring a professional to design the proper specs for the addition. Pipe Fittings: Is there a way to avoid having to solder the pipes when relocating some faucets? Doug can use a convenient product that’s the perfect solution for challenging spaces. Plumbing: We’re not sure why Selena had all her drainpipes replaced and now she’s been told to replace the main supply line. She should get a second opinion. Roof Leak: Kent thinks his bathroom ceiling stain is from the vent fan, but we advise him it’s probably caused by a gap in the rubber boot around the plumbing vent through the roof.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Natural Pools: Learn how natural pools offer a pond-like, eco-friendly oasis with no chemicals and low energy costs. Insulation Tax Credits: Keep your home cozy and your wallet happy with generous tax rebates for insulation upgrades. Wide-Plank Flooring: Make your small rooms look bigger instantly with wide-plank flooring.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Drainage Problems: Kevin thinks groundwater is coming through an opening in his concrete slab, but he really needs to correct the drainage outside the house. Window Glazing: The wet glazing is starting to deteriorate in Dana’s fixed pane windows. She gets tips on removing the trim and adding silicone caulk. Solar Panels: Solar panels have made Joseph’s energy bills go way up instead of saving him money. He needs an attorney after performance claims were not delivered. Crown Molding: Traditional crown molding looks great but is one of the hardest carpentry jobs to do. Tracy gets info on installing easy DIY foam molding instead. Porch Lattice: Darrell needs tips on improving his wraparound porch. We suggest adding composite lattice around the sides that will be easy to maintain. Renovation Projects: Deciding what renovations to do and how much to budget? Kay should hire a professional home inspector and an architect to identify what needs to be done in the vacant home she bought. Painting Cedar Shingles: What’s the right way to repaint old cedar shingles? Paul must scrape off all the loose paint, then prime before painting over again. Bubbling Paint: A new exterior paint job is already starting to bubble! Helen’s painter must properly clean and prime the surface so the new paint will adhere.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Apartment Gardens: Love to garden but don’t have outdoor yard space? Get tips on growing an apartment garden. Home Security: Effective home security cameras need to be positioned properly. Find out where to place cameras to keep your home safe. Sealing Concrete Surfaces: Concrete patios, driveways, and sidewalks take a lot of wear and tear. This product will keep concrete looking like new.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Refinishing Hardwood Floors: Joyce wants to know the best way to refinish her hardwood floors. We share the steps on what to use and how to do it. Cleaning Vinyl Siding: Doug needs to clean spray foam residue from his vinyl siding. He’ll need some WD-40 and a putty knife to soften and scrape it away. Sump Pump: The sump pump wasn’t turning on and now it’s making a gurgling sound! Renee gets info on what may be affecting her sump pump and how to improve drainage. Hot Water Pressure: Steve is not getting good hot water pressure. He should check the valves all along the line to see where the flow is being restricted. Popcorn Ceiling: A popcorn ceiling in a bathroom is a terrible idea! Bill scraped it off and now he should use primer to seal it and then use a flat paint. Leaking Pool Pipes: Sherilynn has a steel pool with a leak somewhere in the pipes. We suggest disabling the existing pipe and running a new line to replace it. Garage Floor: The garage floor is not level and water is going towards the wall of the house. Bill can use a floor-leveling compound to even out the concrete. Roof Replacement: The roofer wants to add a third layer to Ella’s roof. It’s a bad idea because it will retain heat and accelerate the deterioration of the top layer. Kitchen Flooring: William likes the look of bamboo flooring for his kitchen. It’s a good, durable choice if that’s his style, and we offer some additional options. Rust Stains: Metal banister rails left rust stains on Tamra’s pavers. She can try using chemical or natural acid rust removers to clean the stains.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Eliminating Weeds: Weeds are the enemy of lush, healthy lawns. Get tips on fighting backyard weeds all season long. Natural Stone Countertops: Stone countertops are a rock-solid choice for kitchens but require care. Find out the pros and cons. Airless Paint Sprayers: If you’d like to get a smooth and speedy finish on your next painting project, check out a high-efficiency airless paint sprayer.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Dock Restoration: Colleen is seeking a product to restore dock surfaces. We suggest using an established, name-brand product and testing a small area first. Plaster Walls: Plaster is falling off the walls in Scott’s house. We recommend installing new drywall over it to secure the plaster and provide a smooth surface. Staining Concrete: Can you color a concrete patio to cover up repaired cracks? Dottie can choose from a range of concrete stain colors before sealing the patio. Hardwood Floors: Mark likes the old-fashioned look but wants to clean and protect his hardwood floors. A light sanding and a flat or satin finish will work. Crawlspace Vapor Barrier: Is plastic needed on the ground under an exposed crawlspace? Margie can add a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from wicking up through the soil. Toilet Flushing: When Jeff flushes one of his high-efficiency toilets, it sucks water out of the other one. He needs a plumber to check for a venting issue or an obstruction that’s blocking the air to create suction. Vines: Invasive vines managed to grow through a window and across the room. After cutting them down, Louise must sand, prime, and paint the walls and be sure to kill the vine at the roots outside the house. Deck Maintenance: George is tired of resealing the deck each time it peels. He can either strip the wood and start over or replace the boards with a composite material. Carpet Stain Removal: Chuck is trying to remove some old blood stains from carpeting. We have tips on using either water and salt or hydrogen peroxide to lift the stain. Preventing Mold: Mold keeps returning around the sink and bathtub. Andrea learns how to use bleach, a mildewcide caulk, and moisture control to prevent mild from coming back. Wood Siding: Dennis wants to change the siding on his home. He’ll be able to install the new siding right over the T1-11 wood siding he currently has.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Modular Outdoor Kitchens: Building a customized outdoor kitchen is made easy with modular bricks. Curb Appeal: Stand out from the competition with 4 simple curb appeal upgrades to attract homebuyers. Attracting Butterflies: Find out how flower power can create a butterfly oasis in your garden.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Window Leaks: Is a leaking window caused by the soffits, the roof, or the window itself? Mike gets advice on how to find and fix the source of the leak. Ceramic Tile Flooring: There’s condensation on the ceramic tile floor. Using a dehumidifier and checking drainage around the home can help with Annette’s cold floor in a warm, humid house. Roof Leak: Norma has a leak caused by an ice dam on her roof after a past storm. She learns the damage should be covered by her insurance policy. Electrical Fuses: A short circuit keeps blowing the fuse every time Gary tries to turn it on. He needs an electrician to check the wiring and avoid danger. Driveway Repair: Scott’s aggregate driveway is starting to crumble. It’s hard to repair a rough stone surface and he might consider replacing the driveway. Staining a Deck: Pauline’s wood deck is looking worn again. We suggest applying an oil-based primer and a solid stain that will last longer. Concrete Stains: What to do after battery acid spills in a concrete carport? Garland should try using epoxy paint to cover the concrete floor. Vinyl Plank Flooring: Can vinyl plank flooring be installed over an old floor that has areas of glue? Robin should have no problem if the planks are rigid enough. Water Odor: Phew! Wilson’s water smells like rotten eggs, even after replacing the water heater. We suggest having the water tested and using a charcoal filter.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Paying for Home Repairs: Want to buy a fixer-upper and still have funds for making repairs? New mortgage programs offer assistance. Extending Roof Life: Old, dried-out roof shingles can be rejuvenated with a treatment that adds years to the life of your life. Concrete Restoration: If you’ve got cracks, holes, or worn areas in concrete surfaces, there’s a way to fix the flaws and smooth things out.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Hot Water Delay: Tired of waiting for the water to get hot? Loretta can either install a tankless water heater or a less expensive hot water recirculating system. Uneven Concrete: Part of the concrete porch slab is rising up. We give Charlie tips on preparing a new base to keep things level or creating a tapered ramp. HVAC System: There’s a big difference in the upstairs and downstairs temperatures in Amber’s home. Ceiling fans, a split ductless system, or additional ducting and vents can help. Dryer Vents: Should a broken dryer vent be repaired or replaced? We think Jim should replace the dryer vent and part of the duct that goes through his wall. Water Pressure: Krista has very low water pressure. She needs to test the pressure at different points to find any restrictions and see if it’s the well system. Foundation: After doing an addition, Larry’s house is starting to sink and the floor is bowing. He must get a structural engineer to evaluate what to do. Quartz Countertops: Why are there dull spots on the quartz countertops? Carolyn should be polishing the quartz surface regularly.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Paint Sprayers: Planning a painting project? High-efficiency airless paint sprayers make the job easier and faster so you can paint like a pro. Multi-Use Tools: Get info on finishing DIY home projects quicker and easier with corded, cordless, and manual multi-use tools. Buying a Foreclosed Home: Bargain or burden? Learn the pros and cons of buying a home in foreclosure.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Cracked Bathtub: Tim’s new bathroom came complete with a cracked bathtub! It will be hard to repair, but he may get a temporary fix with a fiberglass repair product. Staining a Deck: Why should you wait before staining a new pressure-treated deck? We explain that Theresa should let the lumber dry out for a year so the stain will apply properly. HVAC System: Luke wonders if he really needs two natural gas HVAC units. A two-zone system is definitely more efficient, along with an upgraded thermostat. Cleaning Outdoor Furniture: How should Lucy clean her outdoor furniture? We’ve got advice on how to clean different materials. Upgrading Electrical Wiring: Is it safe to keep old knob and tube electrical wiring? It’s not grounded and can be dangerous, so we recommend that Judy should get her wiring replaced. Garage Door Repair: Dave has dry rot above his old wood garage door. We tell him how to support the rafters while replacing the garage door header.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Reducing Heat Indoors: Feel like you’re living in a hothouse? Get cool solutions for reducing the heat in your home. Landscape Planning: You don’t need to be a pro to plan a lovely landscape. Find out simple tips on how to start. Proper Insulation: Is your home insulated well enough? Learn what it takes to stay comfortable and save on energy bills.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Exterior Painting: Blowing pollen has stuck to Beth’s newly painted columns. She should sand the surface smooth again and surround the area with tarps to protect it until a new coat of paint dries. Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets: Randy wants to match the colors on his painted kitchen cabinets. We’ve got tips on how to stain, repaint, or reface them. Lawn Care: Why won’t one area of the lawn grow? We tell Deb to get a soil sample tested to see if it needs a different treatment than the rest of the lawn. Wall Insulation: Do you need a thermal barrier on cinderblock walls? We give Rick info on using Tyvek and how to insulate walls to prevent moisture and mold. Door Weatherstripping: The insulation is wearing out on John’s double storm doors. He can look for similar weatherstripping to replace it. Squeaky Floors: Donna’s concerned about her squeaky kitchen floor. It’s annoying, but not a structural problem, and we tell her how to find the cause. Light Fixtures: How hard is it to split the electrical wiring to install two bathroom light fixtures? It’s fairly easy to do, but Gary should call an electrician for the job. Ridge Vent: Mary just doesn’t like the ridge vent that was installed with her new roof. We explain that it’s doing exactly what it should for proper ventilation. Painting Cedar Siding: Paint is flaking off the cedar siding on Frank’s home. He should use a wire brush to clean it off and then use an oil-based primer before painting it again.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Cabinets: Should you replace, reface, or refinish your kitchen cabinets? Find out budget-friendly options. Roof Restoration: Dried-out shingles? This rejuvenation treatment can extend the life of your old roof. Mosquitoes: Avoid unwelcome backyard barbecue bites and get mosquitoes to buzz off with these easy steps.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Inground Pool: Dorothy doesn’t want her inground pool anymore. We discuss what’s involved in having it filled and how to use the space. Bathroom Ventilation: Milt has no ventilation in his bathrooms. We have info on installing bathroom exhaust fans and humidistat controls. Shower Leaks: Water leaks are coming from the upstairs shower. Kirsten should follow these steps to track down where the leak is coming from and fill the gaps. Carpenter Bees: Thousands of carpenter bees are drilling into Jim’s log cabin! He needs a new pest control professional who will use the right product to keep bees away. Cleaning Brick: What’s the easiest way to clean mold and mildew from brick without damaging the mortar? We recommend that Judy use a slow-acting mildewcide product and perhaps a gentle pressure wash. Driveway Cracks: Todd wants to repair his cracked driveway. We tell him which product will adhere to the concrete so he can easily refinish the driveway surface. Brick Walls: Debbie discovered brick behind the drywall, but it was attached with glue. Heat guns and adhesive softeners will probably damage the brick, so she may need to add furring strips and a new layer of drywall to cover it up again.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Lightscaping Ideas: Get bright ideas for lightscaping to add safety, security, and style to your home’s exterior. Wallpaper Removal: Peeling off old wallpaper is an unappealing task. Find out four steps to make wallpaper removal easier. Buying Windows: Window shopping? Learn how to decode window labels and certifications for energy efficiency.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Reducing Moisture: How to reduce moisture and prevent mildew on walls? Laura gets tips on running her AC, using fans that vent outside, checking drainage, and installing a whole-house dehumidifier. Replacing Flooring: David wants to replace his old kitchen linoleum floor. We suggest luxury vinyl plank flooring that’s durable and offers a variety of styles. Wall Designs: Diane likes the look of Venetian plaster walls. She may want to practice the technique before making it a focal accent wall in her room. HVAC System: Is Trane a good brand of furnace? We assure Hugo it’s a fine choice for replacing his 30-year-old furnace. Pest Control: Bugs and slugs and mice – oh my! Kelly needs some general pest control treatment from a professional exterminator to get rid of bugs and rodents. Cedar Siding Repair: It’s not so cute when a teething puppy gnaws the cedar siding. Lee can either use a wood epoxy putty to repair the corners or replace the damaged shingles. Discolored Windows: Is water damage staining the bottom and sides of Amy’s windows? We think it’s normal oxidation and offer advice on some DIY fixes. Bathroom Mold: Edward is cleaning and repainting his bathroom to eliminate mold. We have advice on protecting his family from product fumes. Roofing: Can a metal roof be installed over existing roof shingles? Tina learns it’s a bad idea that can trap heat and increase energy costs. Building a Patio: What is the best surface for building a patio and carport? A solid, level concrete slab would be Linda’s best option.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Preparing Your Grill: Getting fired up for BBQ season? Take these steps to prep your grill. Wind-Resistant Roofing: Roof shingles can get blown away by strong winds. Check out wind-resistant roofing that will stay put in the storm. Bedroom Designs: If you suffer from pin-somnia, these trending bedroom designs on Pinterest may be the cure.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Shower Valve: Oops! David cut the drywall for his shower valve a bit too wide, but using a goof plate for oversized holes will help him cover the space. Mold Removal: Karen discovered mold from floor to ceiling behind the wallpaper in her basement. We suggest having the mold tested before deciding on a mitigation plan. Bats: Tommy has bats in his belfry – or at least in his attic! The most humane solution is to find where they’re getting in and install a one-way bat door to keep the bats out. Log Cabin: Deborah’s renovating a log house and needs to refill the chinking. She’ll have to experiment to find the best binding ingredients. Attic Ventilation: Can Conrad install a solar attic fan over his garage and leave the ridge vent on the rest of the house? We’ll discuss the pros and cons. Painting Over Stains: What prep work is needed before painting a ceiling with smoke damage? Joyce can use TSP to remove the soot stains, then use an oil-based primer before covering with latex paint. Rust in Water: Carol is searching for a product to help with the rust in her water. We advise her to use CLR to clean the rust stains from her bath fixtures.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Safer Cleaning Solutions: Avoid spring cleaning chemical hazards by using healthier and safer cleaning products. Selling Your Home: Web appeal has become the new curb appeal when listing your home online, so use photos that home buyers want to see. Planting Flowers: Don’t have the patience for seeds to sprout? Add instant color to your garden with the right live flowering plants.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. HVAC Cleaning: Mike got some questionable suggestions for cleaning his HVAC vents. All he needs are good, efficient filters and a DIY coil cleaner. Fuse Box: Heidi wanted her electrical system upgraded but it wasn’t done right. Another electrician should finish the job and move the electrical panel indoors. Water Leak Detector: Is installing a water leak detector in a vacation home worth it? It can definitely prevent damage and Jay should look for a model that works with a well water system. Cleaning Wood Floors: Should you steam clean hardwood flooring? We advise Judy to use caution and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Roof Repair: The home seller made fraudulent claims about the condition of Patrick’s roof and should be held liable for replacing it. Carpenter Bees: An exterminator did nothing to prevent carpenter bees from returning to Louise’s back deck. We suggest looking for a new professional that offers better treatment and a reasonable guarantee. LED Lighting: Darrell can’t figure out why his new LED lights are causing static on his radio speakers. We’re puzzled, too, but we’ll try to find a solution. Chimney Leak: How in the world could cardboard and duct tape stop an unused chimney from leaking? They can’t! Kristine must either remove the chimney and patch the roof or install proper flashing. Concrete Floor: Craig is enclosing an exterior porch and wants to add flooring, but should first use a patching compound to repair the cracked areas of the concrete. Well Water: Does Susan need a water softener or a carbon filter for her well water? She must get the water tested to find out what kind of treatment to use.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Stone Garden Wall: Learn how to beautify your garden with a strong and stylish stone wall. Storm Shutters: Find out how storm shutters can protect your home from strong sun and wild winds. Painting Prep: Any successful paint job starts with one important step. We’ll share this painting primer.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Carpenter Bees: Busy carpenter bees are drilling lots of holes in Steve’s house. We suggest covering or replacing the wood with synthetic materials. Microwave Oven: The light in Freida’s old microwave oven keeps burning out. It may be a loose connection, a voltage problem, or time to replace the microwave. Aquaponic Garden: Patrick is concerned about the weight of his aquaponic garden on the concrete slab near his pool. We do the math and it should be fine.  Structural Cracks: Are the ceiling cracks in an old home a structural issue? Anne is worried that her house is shifting, so she should have it checked by a home inspector. Water Damage: A destructive raccoon busted the water line and now part of the house is sinking. Brian needs to hire a public adjuster and file an insurance claim. Painting Cedar Shingles: Old paint is peeling off the cedar shingles. We tell Donna how to scrape, sand, and prime the surface before repainting. Noisy Plumbing: It sounds like a trumpet going off every time Robert turns on the hot water! It could be a faulty washer or a blocked aerator in the faucet.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Spool Pools: Find out how trending spool pools offer the benefits of a pool and a spa in one compact space. Rain Barrels: Take advantage of spring showers by using a rain barrel to keep your garden happily hydrated through summer dry spells. Choosing Windows: Going window shopping? Learn how to choose between single-, double-, and triple-pane windows.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Textured Walls: Dave wonders how to prep his textured bathroom walls so he can add tile. Some sanding will allow better adhesion as long as the tiles lay flat. Sewer Pipes: Does a corroded sewer pipe need repair? Cast iron is very durable and Linda should just seal any common cracks with silicone caulk. Moisture Barriers: Does Jim need to add a moisture barrier inside his remodeled walls? Typical insulation already includes it, so he’s all set. Concrete Sidewalk: After having a tree removed, Bobbie wants to extend the sidewalk. She needs to rake out the area and add stone before pouring the concrete. Woodpeckers: Persistent woodpeckers are pecking holes in Terry’s chimney. We’ve got DIY tips on using pie plates and plastic strips to keep them away. Florescent Bulbs: Why do Laura’s compact florescent bulbs keep burning out? They may just be a bad batch, but LED bulbs would work even better. Window Installation: It looks like Steve’s contractor didn’t measure and install his new windows properly. He’ll need to file a complaint to get them done right. Water Softener: Does Ellie need a water softener and can it be installed outside? First, she should check her water source and have it tested, then look into getting a model that’s rated for exterior use and keep it sheltered. Landscaping: Sinkholes and hills have formed over a new septic tank. Chris must be careful not to crush the pipes with any heavy equipment, so he should fill and reseed the lawn by hand. Repainting Garage Doors: Marlene’s metal garage doors are starting to fade. Sanding, using a metal primer, and adding a topcoat of paint will restore them. Slab Foundation: Cracks are forming in various places around Erin’s home, which is on a slab foundation. We suggest having a structural engineer diagnose the issue to see if the cracks are structural.    Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Energy Audit: Learn how an energy audit finds ways to make your home more energy-efficient and save money on utility bills. Roof Shingles: Strong winds can cause serious roof damage. Find out about wind-resistant roof shingles that can protect your home from storms. House Cleaning: Does it seem like the dust in your home never goes away? Get tips for how to easily clean better and sneeze less. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Home Foundation: Brenda’s concrete basement walls are starting to crumble. She needs a structural engineer to determine what a contractor must do to repair the foundation. Pet-Proof Flooring: Pet ferrets have taken a toll on Bruce’s carpeting. We recommend engineered vinyl plank flooring that’s waterproof and durable. Concrete Repair: Can you repair a piece of broken brick and mortar? Bob should use concrete adhesive and cover the crack to re-stucco the area. Woodpeckers: Knock, knock! Woodpeckers are drilling for insects outside Bruce’s house. We’ve got DIY tips to treat for bugs and keep woodpeckers away. Popcorn Ceilings: What is the best way to remove popcorn ceilings? It can be a messy project, but Laura learns a wet scraping method to make it easier. Clogged Toilet: The toilet is making a bubbling sound and has to be flushed twice. Barbara should try using a toilet auger to clear the obstruction. Skylights: Will a skylight make the room too bright and cause glare? It shouldn’t be a problem since Ginny’s tubular skylights will direct sunlight straight down.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Women in Home Improvement: Women are taking on more DIY home improvement projects than ever before, so why does gender bias persist? Deck Materials: Wood is the most popular choice for decks, but what type of lumber should you use? We’ll discuss several kinds of wood for decking. Bathroom Moisture: Tired of dealing with a damp and moldy bathroom? Get tips on how to get rid of bathroom moisture.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Soundproofing: Marilyn doesn’t want to listen in on her neighbors’ conversations! We’ve got tips for soundproofing the walls, outlets, and other openings. Home Remodeling Value: How can you market improvements you’ve done when selling your home? Mike can say it’s newly remodeled and offer an inventory of the updates he’s done. Floor Nails: One nail keeps popping up from the wood floor. Tammy needs to use a trim screw that won’t move as the floor expands and contracts. Water Heater: It’s time for David to replace his old electric water heater. Switching to natural gas would be best, but he can also consider a standard electric heater with a timer or an efficient heat pump water heater. Squeaky Floors: Nancy wants to fix a squeaky subfloor before installing new hardwood flooring. We tell her how to find the floor joists and stop the squeak. Painting Siding: Should you paint vinyl siding if you hate the color? We tell Van it’s not a good idea because it won’t last long and offer suggestions to improve the look.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Termites: Termite damage doesn’t have to be inevitable. Learn how to keep your home off the menu. Design Trends: Spring into the new season with these 4 interior design trends for a fresh, new look. Painting Tips: There’s more to painting than just picking the color. Here are 5 things to save time and money on your next painting project.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Removing Stains: Spilled candle wax on the carpet and upholstery can be a sticky situation. Sandy learns a simple trick for removing wax stains. Installing a Bathroom: Phillip wants to add a half bathroom in a space with concrete floors and walls. He’ll need a jackhammer to dig things out. Duct Cleaning: Is it worth having your HVAC ducts cleaned? We tell Sherry she’s better off using good quality filters and changing them more often. Insulation: Pros and cons of 2x6s vs. 2x4s for exterior walls? Ron will save money by using 2x4s and adding spray foam insulation that’s more efficient. Bathroom Exhaust Fan: Why is the bathroom still steamed up? Diane needs to check that the exhaust fan is venting outside and consider installing a fan with a humidistat. Water Heaters: Mike has questions about draining sediment from his water heater. We have tips on doing it faster and recommend getting an electronic water softener. Metal Roofing: Is a long-lasting metal roof worth the expense? It can add value to a home, but Debbie may not get a full ROI if she’s moving anytime soon. Property Vandalism: Tenants caused intentional damage to Bonnie’s rental property. We advise her to press criminal charges and make an insurance claim.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Outdoor Kitchens: Cooking up plans for an outdoor kitchen? Get the recipe for successfully designing a great outdoor dining space. Spring Gardening: The best soil produces the best gardens in bloom. We’ve got all the dirt on how to prep for springtime gardening. Hardwood Floors: Refinishing hardwood floors can be worth the effort. Learn how to restore the shine.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Exterior Painting: Barry keeps repainting the arbor outside his house. He should make sure the surface is scraped clean and use an oil-based primer and paint. Radon Testing: Are radon tests necessary? We agree it’s a good idea and tell Sandra how radon testing and remediation are done. Shower Floor: The floor under a fiberglass tub squeaks whenever Jeff showers. The tub probably wasn’t installed correctly, but the problem is more annoying than structural. Heating System: Should Amber convert from hot water baseboard heat to electric baseboard heat? We warn her it will be very expensive and suggest getting a new oil unit with zoned heating and controllable thermostats instead. Laminate Flooring: Do you need special underlayment for laminate flooring? Joe should see what type of underlayment is recommended by the manufacturer.  Garden Beds: Where is the best location for a raised garden bed? Courtney should look for a wide open space with no obstructions and full sun.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Spring Home Projects: Is your home ready for spring? Find out the essential home projects to tackle first. HOA Fees: Are you sure that the HOA fees you pay are being used as they should? Learn the tough questions you need to ask your homeowners association. Refrigerator Tips: Do you know why it’s helpful to keep paper towels in your fridge? We’ve got tips on how to use them.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Sliding Doors: Why is there moisture and ice in the bottom track of sliding doors? We have tips for Sherry on checking the door alignment and looking for gaps that may need weatherstripping. Concrete Basement Floor: What is the best way to level a concrete basement floor? Depending on how uneven it is, Colin can use a floor-leveling compound. Cleaning Granite Countertops: Janet wants to know how to clean and maintain her new granite countertops. She’ll need to use a cleaning product that’s safe for granite and be sure to reseal and polish the countertops regularly. Painting Cement: It seems like Eddie’s cement stairs are always peeling and need to be repainted. We advise him to strip off the old paint and use long-lasting epoxy-based masonry paint instead. Bathroom Windows: Christine needs ideas for the window in the bathroom she’s remodeling. We suggest some options for installing a new privacy window. Tub Refinishing: Is it better to refinish, reline, or replace an old tub that’s rusting? Mike may be better off installing a new bathtub unless he wants to do a tub insert. Leaking Ridge Vent: When the rain blows sideways, the ridge vent leaks on Ted’s roof. We recommend installing a new ridge vent that has built-in weather protection.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Mold Removal: Even the cleanest of homes can have hidden mold. Here’s what to do if you find it. Building a Deck: Is building a deck a DIY project or should you hire a pro? Find out how to decide. Circuit Breakers: How do circuit breakers keep you safe and what should you do if they keep tripping? We’ll explain how they work.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Radon Mitigation System: There’s water outside Benjamin’s radon system pipe. It’s probably pulling up moisture along with the gases, so he needs to improve the drainage outside his house. Plumbing: Jackie has questions about diverting the plumbing when replacing an old tub with a tile shower. She should install a pressure-balanced shower valve to reroute the pipes. Cleaning Grout: What’s the best product to clean the grout in a ceramic tile floor? We suggest that Joe use a stripper instead of a cleaner and then apply a grout sealer. Laminate Flooring: Robin wants to install laminate flooring without having to remove the cabinets and appliances. We remind her to raise the feet on the appliances to avoid locking them in place and give suggestions on transitioning between spaces. Water Heater: Rust from an old oil-fired water heater is making the hot water discolored. It’s time for Kim to consider a new heat pump water heater that will be more efficient. Cedar Planking Walls: When Brian moves pictures that hang on his cedar planking walls, he sees how faded the wall is around them. He can either sand and stain the cedar or stop moving the pictures to hide the color.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Yard Drainage: When melting snow and spring showers leave a soggy mess, here’s how to dry up your yard. Attracting Birds: If you like to hear the sound of chirping birds, find out how to attract birds to your yard with these native plants. Houseplant Care: The best way to keep your houseplants healthy is to water them properly. Get tips on knowing when it’s time to water those plants.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Clogged Toilet: When Beth flushes the toilet, the water rises up to the rim and then empties slowly. Sounds like she needs a plumber to drain a partial clog. Basement Floor Crack: Mike is worried about a crack across one end of the floor. It’s not the foundation and we’ll tell him about a DIY concrete repair. House Sounds: What is that mysterious banging sound? Depending on the cause, Gerry learns she may need to tune up her boiler or get a water hammer arrestor. Buckled Floor: Should a new engineered hardwood floor be buckling? We tell Matthew it’s not acceptable and advise him to report it to his home builder and home warranty company while it’s still covered. Window Shutters: Can you install window shutters over vinyl siding? Ruth finds out it’s a common DIY project using special fasteners.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Cleaning: Are you sure your kitchen is really clean? You’ll never guess where the most germs are hiding! Seed vs. Sod: Should you use seed or sod to get the lush, green lawn you want? We share the pros and cons of each. Screen Cleaning: Before opening your windows, follow these tips to clean those dirty screens and let the fresh air in.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Kitchen Remodeling: Mark wants advice on buying budget kitchen cabinets for a DIY kitchen remodeling project. We share info on where he can find quality cabinets that are affordable and easy to install. Tile Floor Grout: The grout is chipping around the bathroom floor tiles and may have been mixed incorrectly. Karen should have it removed and regrouted again. Repairing Wall Cracks: Brian keeps trying to cover a crack in the bedroom wall, but we tell him the right way to sand, tape, and spackle the area so the crack won’t return. Water Heater: Hot water from the electric water heater doesn’t last very long. It’s probably one of the heating elements that’s not working and Ruth should check the continuity on both coils. Insect Control: Ick! Tara’s got earwigs under the siding and crickets in the basement. She needs to have a pest control service do a general spraying to solve both problems. Window Replacement: Is it better to use new construction windows or replacement windows? Nick learns that replacement windows are a more economical and practical option and how to check for energy efficiency. New Flooring: Can luxury vinyl plank flooring be installed over a laminate floor that’s glued down? Bob can do that as long as the surface is flat and solid and should be mindful of transition areas. Tub Reglazing: What is the best way to refinish an old cast iron tub that’s rusted? Reglazing it can be a messy job and Margaret should consider having it removed. Heat Pump Water Heater: Will an energy-efficient heat pump water heater affect the air temperature in the house? It won’t impact the air in Karl’s basement, but it will have a big impact on reducing his utility bills.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Buying: Find out how millennials are buying their first homes in a tough real estate market. Home Improvement Advice: If you think tackling one home improvement project is tough, join our conversation with a popular HGTV expert about doing multiple projects at once. Babyproofing: If you’ve got a baby on the way, it’s time to start babyproofing your home! Here are important steps to keep babies safe.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Water Use: With no condensate pump draining from his tankless water heater, Sergio is collecting the water in a bucket and wonders about reusing it for his garden. We agree there’s no reason not to. Basement Mold: Is it really mold in the basement? Judy is thinking of using a service that claims she needs to have mold removed, but she’s being misled. Bathroom Vent: When the bathroom vent stopped working, Mike discovered it was not vented through the roof and is thinking of redirecting it. We tell him how to vent it properly. Deck Stain: Paula wants a combination deck stain and sealer to match the house trim. She’s got lots of choices with a good quality solid color stain that will last longer.    Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Super Power Your Vac: Is your vacuum just not doing the job, and just when you need it for spring cleaning? We’ve got tips for DIY vacuum repairs. Building a Fence: Good fences make good neighbors, but only if it’s done well. Find out how to put up a fence even the neighbors will love. Deck Safety: Is your deck safe for outdoor entertaining? Now is the time to look for signs of potential dangers.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Heating an Old Home: Beverly is freezing on the first floor of her historic home. With no easy way to access the crawlspace and poorly placed heating ducts, we suggest adding supplemental heat by adding electric baseboard heating. Smart Thermostats: Jeff’s bedroom gets a lot warmer than the other rooms in his condo, where the thermostat is located. Installing a smart thermostat with separate sensors should even things out. Sealing Drafts: What is the best way to stop drafts coming through windows, doors, and cabinets? We give Anne advice on how to seal and insulate the gaps. Driveway Replacement: Can you pour a concrete driveway on top of an existing asphalt driveway? It’s not a good idea, and Ray will have to excavate the old driveway and build up the surface before pouring concrete. Electrical and Plumbing: Karen has lots of questions on how she should be checking her circuit breakers and water meter. We agree it’s good to check them regularly and tell her how to do it. Vapor Barriers: Do you need to add a vapor barrier on the interior walls of a new garage? The vapor barrier Jessie has on the exterior is enough and extra layers may trap moisture inside the walls.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Water Odors: Does your water smell like rotten eggs? Learn the reasons why and how to stop the stink. HVAC System: A smart new system can monitor HVAC maintenance and much more. We’ve got all the details on this great smart home option. Washing Machines: When shopping for a new washing machine, you get what you pay for. Find out the four best features to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Thermostat: Should you be replacing your old thermostat? Carl must be sure he gets the right thermostat for a heat pump and have it installed correctly. Window Drafts: Brrrrr! Belinda is freezing from the drafts through her apartment windows. We suggest easy ways to use shrink film or interior caulk weatherstripping to keep out the wind. Cedar Shingles: Phillip loves the look of red cedar shingles that darken over time, but it’s up to Mother Nature to get the look he wants. Flooring: How should you retile an unlevel floor? Jan can use a floor-leveling compound or just level the appliances and other items in uneven areas. Energy Savings: What is a home energy audit and how much does it cost? We advise Rob to start with his local utility company or someone not connected with a repair service, and tell him some of the tests that can be done. Bathroom Walls: Can untreated knotty pine be used for bathroom walls and ceilings? We explain to Melanie why it’s a bad idea but suggest products that can give her a similar look. Metal Roof: The metal roof on the sunroom gets so noisy when it rains! Bela can make things quieter by adding plywood decking, an ice and water shield, and asphalt shingles.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Solar Energy: Is solar energy right for your home? Learn 5 reasons why it’s worth going solar. Hot Water: Tired of waiting for the shower to get hot enough? Here’s how to get hot water faster and with less waste. Sealing Drafts: Are you still feeling a draft, no matter how much weatherstripping and insulation you’ve used? There’s a spot you probably missed.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Flooring: Ann wants to install ceramic tile flooring that looks like wood. It’s a popular choice with lots of good options for style, color, and texture. Structural Issues: In his rush to buy a home, Jason overlooked a hump in the main beam that’s making the floor sag. He needs a structural engineer to examine the problem and determine the right way to fix it. Drywall Cracks: A random earthquake caused a long crack across the wall and ceiling. Nicole gets tips on using perforated drywall tape and spackle to repair it. Chimney: What is the best way to seal a chimney to prevent drafts? It can be done, but we suggest that Jim install a removable damper on top of the chimney liner. Squeaky Floors: Can you fix a squeaky floor without removing the carpeting? We tell Kenneth how to find the floor joists and use galvanized nails to stop the squeak. Sink Odors: What’s that stinky odor coming from the bathroom sink? Cindy should use a bottle brush to scrub scummy buildup inside the pipes. Driveway Repairs: How should you repair pitted areas of a concrete driveway? We recommend an epoxy-based concrete patching product that Rich can use. Granite Countertops: Pauline is seeing white mineral deposits on her granite countertops. We’ve got a recipe for a homemade granite cleaner to use before having them resealed. Shower Mold: John has tried everything he can think of to prevent mold around the shower door. We give him a few more steps to take to keep mildew away.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Staging: Selling your home? These kitchen staging tips will help close the deal. Home Improvement Projects: Lifestyle needs are the leading reason for home improvement. Find out more from a recent survey. Landscape Lighting: The best light scaping offers safety and security around your home. Here’s how landscape lighting will improve your nighttime view.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Lawn Maintenance: What is the best way to reseed your lawn? After Adrian’s lawn was destroyed by pests, he should kill off the weeds and old grass, then use the best type of seed for his area to plant new growth. Sealing a Deck: Should you seal a deck after staining it? If Dawn used a good quality solid stain, it should last a few years without being sealed. Heating Efficiency: Chris wants to know whether a pellet stove or heat pump is more efficient. We discuss the pros and cons of each and how it’s used. Heated Tile Flooring: The in-floor heating caused cracks in a bathroom tile floor. We recommend a membrane with a built-in heating system that June should use instead. Heat Pump: Jim had two different heat pumps fail, and expensive repairs were poorly done. He’d be better off getting a newer, more efficient model of heat pump or a gas furnace. Adjusting a Boiler: Gail needs to adjust her boiler so the water won’t get too hot, but then it reduces the heat in her home. She needs a mixing valve to add cold water to the hot water without affecting her heating.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Laundry Room: Doing the laundry is less of a chore with a well-designed laundry room. Here are things to consider when planning that place. Cast Iron Radiators: You can't beat cast iron radiators for adding both comfort and charm to old homes. We’ve got ideas for refurbishing old radiators. Rental Deposit: When your lease ends, how can you be sure to get your security deposit back? Make your rental look its best with these 5 tips.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Refinishing Old Wood: Susan wants to refinish the old wood that was behind the sheetrock of her walls. She’ll need to sand, seal, and stain the wood pieces before adding varnish. Installing a Steam Room: Can you convert a shower into a steam room? It’s a great idea that will add value to Victor’s home and we offer info about a steam shower generator. Insulating a Roof: After a peaked roof is installed over a flat roof, should you add insulation? We agree Monica can add insulation and remind her to have enough ventilation, too. Structural Support: Brendan bought a home that’s raised on piers and was made level after sagging in the middle. Should he add sand to prevent further erosion? He’d be better off installing gutters to direct water away from the foundation. Electrical Wiring: Does electrical wiring need to be replaced when a new electrical box, outlets, and switches are installed? As long as it’s not old knob and tube wiring and it’s been wired correctly, Christine can leave it alone. Laminate Flooring: Frazier is putting laminate flooring over terracotta Mexican pavers. Floating floors with foam underlayment attached should be easy to install and keep things level. Crawlspace: Is it a good idea to dig out a crawlspace to make more room? We warn Sara it’s a bad move because the soil can shift and undermine the house foundation. Light Switches: Russ says his three-way light switch has stopped working correctly. The failure can be at any point and it’s a good idea to have an electrician trace the wiring.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Freezer Storage: Find the foods you want and stop food waste with these freezer organizing tips. Snow Removal: Tired of shoveling snow off your driveway? Find out the pros and cons of heated driveways. Stairs and Railings: Squeaky stairs and rickety railings are easy to fix with these DIY steps.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Water Heater Repairs: Joe’s tankless water heater is still under warranty but he’s having trouble getting it repaired. He should contact the manufacturer directly to find a contractor in his area. Wall Cracks: Leslie thinks her home is settling after a wall was torn down from an adjacent house. We have info about making sure the surrounding soil is solid and how to repair common wall cracks. Roof Leaks: David can’t find the leak that’s coming from under the old solar water heating system on his roof. We’ve got tips on locating the path of the roof leak and suggest installing a new tankless heater. Circuit Breakers: A newly installed dehumidifier stops working and floods the basement after tripping the circuit breaker. Kayla can easily install an additional circuit to boost her 100-amp service. Installing a Fence: What is the best way to pour a cement foundation for a fence when there’s water in the ground? We explain to Vincent how far down he should dig and how to displace the groundwater with cement. Drain Odors: There’s a strange odor coming from the drains in Barbara’s kitchen and bathroom. It’s probably biogases from decaying debris, but a bleach solution can make things fresh again. Soundproofing: Ian wants to build a recording studio and needs soundproofing suggestions. The easiest and cheapest option is to add a layer of sound-resistant drywall all around the room. Floor Tiles: Ellen says her bathroom floor tiles are moving and the grout is falling apart. That means the tiles were not adhered properly and she’ll either need to remove and replace them or install a layer of laminate flooring over them.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Affordable Home Projects: Home upgrades can be expensive, but we’ve got 7 affordable home improvement projects that cost less than $1,000. Plaster Walls: Older homes have plaster walls instead of drywall, and cracks are common. Learn the right way to repair cracks in plaster walls. Garage Doors: Parking your car in the garage keeps snow and ice off the vehicle, but what happens if your garage door is frozen shut? Try these tips.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Frozen Pipes: Would a recirculating hot water system prevent pipes from freezing inside Julie’s old home? A better solution would be to blow insulation inside the walls to insulate the pipes. Tile Grout: Rust is seeping through the grout in a tile shower. The simplest thing Bill can do is replace it with some epoxy grout. Cleaning Laminate Flooring: Debra wants to know how to remove dried nail polish that spilled without damaging the laminate floor. Carefully using a small amount of nail polish remover should be fine. Wet Basement: Moisture in the basement is causing a bad odor throughout the house. Ed needs to improve the outside drainage, install a dehumidifier, and remove any paneling and carpet where bacteria may be lingering. Drain Odors: Joyce has a bad smell coming from her bathroom sink. She can kill bacteria by filling the sink with a bleach solution to run into the overflow holes or taking the trap apart and cleaning it well. Deck Tiles: The anti-slip coating on the deck is starting to wear off. Laura should check out the attractive composite tiles she can use to cover the deck instead. Clogged Toilet: Beth says the water in the toilet bowl is filling all the way to the top and emptying slowly. Sounds like a partial clog that needs to be cleared by a plumber. Sump Pump: Louis wants to know if his sump pump should be routed outside his house rather than into the sewer line. He’s correct and we recommend draining it at least 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation. Toilet Bowl Ring: A mysterious persistent black ring keeps returning in just one of Sparky’s toilets. We suspect there may be something different about the porcelain finish of that bowl and he might have to replace the toilet.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Generators: Lost power? When storms make the lights go out, power up by choosing the right generator for your home. Furniture Repair: Dings, dents, scratches, and stains are easy to fix with these DIY furniture repair tips. Heating Costs: Even if you’re a renter and not a homeowner, there are ways to heat your apartment more efficiently and save on energy bills.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Countertop Materials: Iris wants to upgrade her kitchen countertops. Quartz needs less maintenance than marble or granite and offers more options. Egress Windows: Can a basement egress window be too high from the floor? We give James advice on finding safe and convenient egress window products. Fireplace Noise: Why are howling and whistling noises coming from a new gas fireplace? We think Sharon should contact the manufacturer about issues with the venting through the roof. Dishwasher Repairs: The dishes aren’t drying in Jackie’s dishwasher and mold is building up in the machine. The heating element probably failed and it may be cheaper to replace the dishwasher rather than repair it. Bathroom Addition: Adam wants to install a second bathroom and has questions about the plumbing. We offer ideas on how to run the water supply. Radon: Is radon a potential hazard for a house on a slab foundation? Only if the radon level is very high in the soil, and we explain to Kathy how to have the home tested for radon.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Lighting: Get some bright ideas for the 3 types of lighting you need in your kitchen. Heat Pumps: Heat pumps can be a popular, energy-efficient choice, but are they right for your home? DIY Home Improvements: Don’t have enough time for home improvements? Here are some quick DIY home projects you can do in less than 30 minutes.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Radon: Are there any DIY radon mitigation systems available to save on costs? Adam learns that radon levels can vary, how a radon mitigation system works, and why it’s hard to install it yourself. Wall Primer: Rust stains are leeching through the plaster after a rusty tool was used. Laura should use an oil-based primer to cover and seal it before using a topcoat of paint. Construction: Is it better to use wood framing or ICF blocks to construct a new house? We tell Tim about the advantages of insulating concrete forms that make them a better choice. Heating: Michelle wants to close off unused rooms in a big house to save on heating. We recommend installing a DIY smart thermostat with wireless sensors to control the temperature in separate rooms. Attic Ventilation: Will installing an attic ventilator help to cool the attic by circulating air correctly? As long as Scott has the right kind of ridge vents and the soffit vents are unobstructed, he won’t need it for good ventilation. Water Heater: When is a long, hot bath too hot? Dean should be careful not to set the temperature of his gas water heater any higher than 110-120 degrees and consider installing a tankless water heater. Insulation: Carol wonders what type of insulation to use for the living space in a pole building. Her best option would be spray foam insulation to fill the gaps and seal out drafts. Plumbing: Brad has different water temperatures coming from different bathroom faucets. Since the water pressure is fine, it sounds like some valves are clogged or only partially open and he has to figure out where.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Sponsored in part by policygenius.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Drywall Repairs: Learn how to fix drywall cracks, holes, and nail pops with these DIY tips. Closet Lighting: Upgraded closet lighting makes it easier to find things and stay organized. Here’s how to brighten up dark closets. Hot Water: Hot water is convenient but comes at a cost. Find out how to keep your hot water flowing more efficiently.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Garbage Disposal: What is the best size garbage disposal and how hard is it to install? We recommend that Brandon gets a ½ to ¾ HP unit for better performance, which can be installed with basic plumbing and electrical skills. Drain Odors: Terry has a bad odor coming from one bathroom sink. She needs to take apart the drain and use a bleach solution to thoroughly clean the drain and sink. Stuck Windows: Why are otherwise good windows so hard to open? Mayer should open up the window trim to check if they’ve been installed too tightly. Ventilation: Lisa wonders if she should leave her bathroom exhaust fan running all the time. We suggest installing a humidistat timer or an air-to-air heat exchanger to improve the ventilation. Clogged Drain: A caustic drain cleaner burned the surface of Barry’s jacuzzi tub. We have info on a better product to clear clogged drain lines. Ceiling Leak: Pat has a ceiling leak coming from a dryer roof vent. Her contractor should install a different type of roof vent and check the flashing around it. Bathroom Heater: Should you repair or replace a bathroom heater when the fan stops working? The unit can overheat, so it’s safer for Darrell to replace the whole thing and make sure it vents outside rather than into the attic. Drafty Windows: Joyce hasn’t been able to stop drafts coming through her windows. We explain how to use shrink-film or temporary sealant caulk to keep out the cold. HVAC Systems: After removing his steam heat radiators, Steve wants to install a ducted HVAC system. We suggest restoring the steam heat and using a high-velocity, low-volume duct system for air conditioning.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Outdoor Living Spaces: Planning a backyard project? Check out the outdoor living spaces that buyers want most. Painting Tips: Paint is an easy way to create a new look, but how do you get paint to stick to tough surfaces? We’ve got some tips. DIY Plumbing: Unless it’s an emergency, you may not need to call a plumber. Here are 5 DIY plumbing projects you should know.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Roofing: Can roof sheathing be installed right on top of old barn boards? Catherine may need to add an underlayment, but if the boards are solid, that should be fine. Driveway Mold: Mold keeps coming back on a shaded area of David’s driveway. We recommend using a mildewcide product that has a lasting residual effect. Floor Beams: Wendy is tearing up an old floor right down to the beams. We have advice on installing additional beams and plywood to lend more support. Door Replacement: When replacing a front door, do you have to replace the entire transom around it? Rick learns why it’s harder to only change the door. Flooring: Laura is worried that her shaking appliances will ruin the new laminate flooring. We’ve got tips on leveling the machines and using special padding. Water Heater: Should you replace an electric water heater with a tankless model? A 240-volt timer would be better at helping Ken save on his water heating bills. HVAC Condensation: Condensation from an HVAC system is dripping into Gail’s crawlspace. She needs to have the contractor install it properly with a condensate pump to direct the moisture outside. Insulation: Can you ever have too much insulation? We help Brad figure out how to finish and insulate the attic in a Cape Cod-style home.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Types of Insulation: Find out how to identify the best insulation options for your house to cut costs and improve comfort. Saving Space: You don’t need to downsize to save space. We’ve got tips on living more simply and affordably. Saving Water: Installing the right plumbing fixtures makes it easy to save water and money. Here’s what to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Replacement Windows: Are triple-pane windows better than double-pane? ENERGY STAR-rated double-pane replacement windows should be efficient enough for Jane Ellen’s home. Structural Issues: The front wall of Richard’s home has been bowed for decades. It hasn’t been a problem, but he needs a structural engineer to assess it before he ever tries to sell the house. Garage Doors: The garage door is not operating properly and shimmies when it opens and closes. The ball-bearing door rollers are failing and it would be best for Nancy to replace the garage door and opener. Subflooring: A leaky toilet rotted the bathroom subfloor in Chris’ home. We’ve got tips on the best way to replace the subfloor and adhere new flooring. Kitchen Renovation: Joan wants to know where to begin with a kitchen renovation. Planning makes perfect and we suggest visiting a home center or speaking with a kitchen and bath designer to get ideas. Foundation Walls: The paint on Jodi’s cement block foundation is starting to peel because of the surrounding moisture. She must either strip off the paint or have a mason attach wire mesh and re-stucco the foundation. Gas Connection: Should Ken hook up a gas stove by using the same gas regulators as the water heater and furnace? That’s not a good idea because the pressures could be different, and he should call a professional to do the job. Painting Tile: Can you paint over outdated bathroom tile? Christine can, but it’s an extensive process that requires an oil-based primer. She might try decorating around the tile colors instead.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Island Design: Add extra food prep space with a versatile kitchen island that’s affordable and user-friendly. Driveway Markers: Get ideas for eye-catching driveway markers to add curb appeal and increase home safety. De-Icing Tips: Find out how to quickly thaw a frozen windshield with this easy DIY solution. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Home Addition ROI: Finished basement or second-floor addition: which one offers a better ROI? We think Matthew’s home will gain more value by adding bedrooms and bathrooms on a second floor. Rodents: Kathryn wonders if an ultrasonic device would help control the mice in her basement. Along with baits and poison, it would be more effective to eliminate nesting areas, plug up any openings, and avoid leaving any food or water in the house or garage that could attract pests. Gutters: Joe’s roof shingles don’t extend far enough to direct water into the gutters. We suggest using a flat bar to pry up the edges and insert flashing under the shingles to create a bridge to the gutters. Countertops: Is there a way to remove scratches in a Corian countertop? Gayla can try a deep cleaning product to make them less obvious or have a professional lightly sand and repolish the surface. Deck Cleaning: What’s the best way to clean algae and mold from a pressure-treated wood deck and a stone patio? Bill needs a pressure washer with a bleach solution to remove the stains. Wallpaper Removal: Jan wants to remove a layer of wallpaper liner without damaging the drywall. If it’s adhered well, she should be able to add a textured surface right over it. Fascia Board: Is it possible to remove a rotted fascia board without removing the spacer and gutter? It will all need to come off, but then Derwin can replace the wood fascia with a cellular PVC board that will last without rotting. Dry Rot: What causes dry rot and how to tell if you have it? Joan learns there’s no such thing as dry rot, only wet wood that dries out and starts to decay. Shower Renovation: Is flashing needed around a prefabricated shower stall base to prevent moisture issues? Randy should be fine installing the pan over the backer board and adhering tile directly onto the board.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Energy Savings: This virtual tool can identify wasted energy in your home and provide info on ways to save. Child Safety: Unstable furniture injures or kills thousands of kids each year. This law is aimed at protecting children’s lives. Household Budget: How much do you need for annual home repairs and maintenance? Get tips on planning a home improvement budget.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Grout: Is it a good idea to use white grout? Christine was told it’s not, but it depends on the type of grout and how grout is sealed and maintained. Electrical Fuses: Strings of Christmas lights blew the fuses in Dan’s historic house. LED lights would be brighter and more cost-effective, plus allow him to hang multiple strands. Kitchen Remodel: Dot checks in with us to give an update on how well her kitchen remodeling project turned out. Asbestos Tiles: Are asbestos tile floors a health hazard? We assure Justin that it’s fine to leave the intact tiles alone, level needed areas with a self-leveling compound, and install new vinyl or laminate flooring over them. Porch Renovation: Marla wants to screen in the porch of her old house. But working around the 22 supporting columns makes it a huge project that will modify the architectural style. Prefabricated Construction: John wants to know if prefabricated construction is the best option for building a guest house. We agree it offers lots of advantages, including faster turnaround and better quality control. Gutter Guards: What are the best kind of gutter guards for keeping out leaves? We suggest that Risa look into gutter guards with a thin mesh and do her research on contractors. HVAC Condensation: Is that ceiling stain coming from a leaky roof or an air-conditioning unit in the attic? It’s probably HVAC condensation during the humid months, so Mike just needs to prime and repaint the stain to see if it returns. Staining a Deck: Jeanie is trying to find a deck stain that doesn’t need to be redone every year. We recommend using a solid color, solvent-based stain that will last longer. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: House Cleaning: Keeping things clean with a house full of kids is a challenge. We’ve got helpful tips for busy parents. Dishwashers: Are ENERGY STAR-rated dishwashers worth it? Find out how to save money and energy by installing the right dishwasher. Wall Drafts: Where is that draft coming from? Besides windows, sneaky openings in walls can be letting cold air through.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Crawlspace Vents: Are crawlspace vents really necessary and should you close them? They’re mandated by building code and Chris gets tips on when to keep crawlspace vents open or closed to control moisture. Kitchen Renovation: Elaine wants to renovate her mid-century kitchen. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of opening up some walls and updating the cabinets. Attic Ventilation: Should a flat roof have more ventilation? It can be harder to circulate air with a flat roof, but the vents Ken already has should be enough. Windows: Amy gets condensation inside the windows every winter. She can start by taking steps to reduce the humidity inside her house, but she’ll eventually need to install better-insulated windows. Bathroom Subfloor: Large tiles on the bathroom floor are starting to crack and crumble because they’re less flexible over the uneven subfloor. George has to tear out the tiles and install a new subfloor or mud underlayment before adding new tiles. Cleaning Old Walls: Susan wants to know how to clean, restore, and maintain her unfinished hardwood pine walls. We suggest sanding them by hand to even out the color, then adding an oil-based stain before sealing the surface. Basement Flooring: What kind of basement flooring should be used to replace the moldy carpet? Richard’s best options are to install laminate flooring or engineered hardwood flooring over a vapor barrier. Wallpaper Removal: Sue is tired of the wallpaper in every room of her house. We’ve got hints on using fabric softener or laundry starch to loosen the wallpaper glue before pulling it off and scraping the walls.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Features: Designing a dream kitchen? Find out the top 10 kitchen features that homeowners want. Television Tips: Make TV time more enjoyable by using the best settings for picture and sound quality. Here’s how to adjust your TV. Energy Savings: Avoid electric bill sticker shock by following these tips to save energy and money each month.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Insulation: Should Andy be adding insulation to keep his home warmer? Old insulation can start to settle and sag, so he could add two overlapping layers to insulate better. Settling Home: Renee is worried that a cracked support beam will shift her walls and chimney. Releveling a settling house can impact wires and plumbing, too, and she needs to contact her HOA for structural repairs. Drywall: Why is the drywall separating at the seams and how can it be repaired? The cause is probably shrinking and movement, but Mike gets some easy DIY tips on how to patch, prime, and paint the seams. Plumbing: The hot water in just one of the faucets is suddenly turning cold. It sounds like a bad valve, so Susan can replace that faucet set and see about installing a pressure-balancing valve to keep the water temperature even. Driveway Cracks: Jim keeps patching cracks in his concrete driveway every winter. Instead of adding more concrete, he should use an epoxy patching compound that will adhere properly. Mold: Laurie thinks mold in the basement drywall and insulation is causing allergies and other issues. She needs to replace the carpeting with tile or laminate flooring, check drainage around the house, and add an air filtration system or air cleaner to breathe easier. Water Sediment: Well water is leaving clay residue in the kitchen and bathroom faucets. It shouldn’t be too hard for Paul to install a whole-house sediment filter to clear up the water. Wall Cracks: It’s common to have cracked walls in an old house. We give Jan some step-by-step instructions on the right way to repair the cracks in her walls.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Loading Your Dishwasher: Are you loading your dishwasher the wrong way? Here’s how to make sure your dishwasher is cleaning as efficiently as possible. Painting Tips: Painting professionals know how to save paint, time, and effort while getting the best results. We’ll share some helpful painting secrets. Snowstorm Preparation: Are you prepared for snowstorms this season? Find out tips and tools for clearing away snow and ice.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Ceiling Renovation: Mary wants to remove the ceiling joists to create a cathedral ceiling in her seasonal home. A project like this may have structural effects, so she needs an architect or structural engineer to spec it out safely. Retaining Wall: Drainage pipes by Terry’s retaining wall are sending mud down his driveway. He has to decide whether to regrade the area and rebuild the retaining wall, redirect the downspouts, or keep cleaning the driveway. Pet Stains and Odors: A tenant’s puppy has left stains and odors in the carpet of Carol’s rental home. She can try neutralizing the area with an odor-removal product or replace the flooring with tile, laminate, or stain-resistant carpeting. Ceiling Leaks: A flood in the upstairs apartment leaked through Kevin’s kitchen light fixture and the ceiling is stained and bowed. Mold won’t be a problem if the leak is fixed, but we’ve got advice on what to do if the ceiling gets wet again. Soundproofing: Catherine can actually hear her neighbors two houses down through an I-beam in her basement! Framing the beam and attaching soundproofing drywall should keep things private again. Toilet Stains: What’s the best way to clean stubborn lime deposit stains in the toilet? Pete gets tips on how to carefully try abrasives, muriatic acid, or a paste of vinegar and baking soda. Dryer Vents: Clara wonders how to clean the lint from a long dryer duct vent. We recommend a handy tool to easily remove the lint buildup and prevent a fire hazard.  Concrete Patio Stains: A new concrete patio wasn’t sealed and now has leaf stains. It’s not too late for Jeff to scrub, dry, and use a vapor-permeable concrete sealer to keep the patio clean. Pest Control: Squirrels chewing through the roof are making Kathy nuts! She needs to use a humane cage to trap and release any that have gotten inside, then fill the holes and spread mothballs along the eaves to keep squirrels away.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Paint Colors: If you’re starting the new year with a new look for your home, find out how to choose the best paint colors for every room. House Cleaning: Are you ready to get help cleaning the house? Here’s how to hire a cleaning service while saving money and effort. Winter Blues: When dreary winter days get you down, these tips can lift your spirits and brighten things up throughout your home.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Leaking Shower: A leaking shower is soaking the bathroom subflooring. We’ve got tips on whether Maria needs to replace the shower pan or reseal gaps in the grout. Composite Decking: Is it worth replacing an old wood deck with composite decking? Carl learns the advantages of using durable composite materials that are easy to install and maintain. Refinishing Furniture: Ruth has a beautiful custom solid oak table, but she may need a professional for the work involved in refinishing the wood furniture. Cold Floors: That concrete basement floor is too cold, but Jay can install an insulated subfloor to put over it to warm things up. Home Warranties: After just one year, problems keep popping up in a newly constructed home. Tina should hire a home inspector, document the issues, and contact the home warranty company to ensure coverage. House Foundation: Solid concrete vs. cinderblock foundation? Moisture can penetrate any type of foundation, but Steve can keep things dry by improving drainage outside the house. Cracked Bath Liner: Stephanie’s noticing small cracks in her acrylic bathtub liner. Superficial cracks in the surface of the glaze can be hidden by applying a layer of car wax. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Removing Walls: Open up your floor plan by removing walls – even load-bearing ones – without bringing the house down. Gas Fireplaces: Stop sending heat up the chimney! We’ve got the advantages of installing a direct vent gas fireplace. Space Organization: Not ready to downsize? Simplifying your home allows you to save more and stress less without sacrificing space.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Toilet Condensation: Cold water in the toilet plus warm and humid indoor air is causing condensation on the outside of the toilet. Ilene can get a toilet insulating kit or have a plumber add a hot water line to warm the water. Vertical Siding: Greg is curious about hanging vinyl siding vertically instead of horizontally. It’s a viable option as long as the siding is rated for vertical installation and the correct backing is used. Adding Insulation: It’s time to add attic insulation to Barb’s older home. We explain how standards have changed and why insulation that settles and sags is less efficient. Concrete Driveway Repair: A triangular area of Tim’s concrete driveway has cracked and dropped. If it can’t be removed, he can use an epoxy concrete repair product to create a patch. How to Choose Siding: When an unused garage is turned into an addition, what siding material should be used to match the brick and cedar exterior? We have suggestions on using plank shingles and how to choose a siding color. Plumbing: What should you look for when turning on water that’s been turned off for a long time? Keith gets step-by-step tips on how to get the water running again and how to check for leaks. Flooring: After her pets ruined the carpet and floor, LuAnn is ready to install new flooring. She’ll want to use an oil-based product to prime and seal the subfloor before installing a new wood floor over it. Blown-In Insulation: Dave needs to insulate his brick balloon frame home. The ceiling space under the attic is most important, and then the walls. Blown-in insulation with an infrared camera is the best way to insulate the cavities. Preventing Mice: How can you keep mice away from a seasonal home? Sarah should be sure to leave out no food, seal all holes and cracks, avoid nesting areas, and apply rodenticide to eliminate mice.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Houseplants: TikTok users reveal their top 5 favorite houseplants. Find out what they are and why they’re so popular. Kitchen Backsplashes: Kitchen trends come and go. Here are the kitchen backsplashes that are currently making a splash of their own. Termites: Termite damage can be hard to identify in cold weather. We’ll tell you what to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Roofing: There’s one bald spot on the roof after it snows and Kathy is concerned about heat loss. It’s probably caused by warm air from the dryer exhaust duct or a gap in the insulation. HVAC: Tom’s heat pump system is running constantly and can’t heat the house enough. He needs a professional to do a heat loss analysis and see if the ductwork is designed and installed properly. Bathroom Caulk: Mary is trying to remove the caulk around her bathtub. We offer tips on how to soften the caulk to scrape it out and the best way to apply new bathtub caulk. Solar Panels: Should solar panels be installed on an older roof? We suggest that Lawrence consider the ROI of solar panels and if it’s worth replacing the roof before it’s necessary. Garage Door Openers: Laura doesn’t have the garage door openers for her garage or the code for the keypad. If she finds the model number, she can contact the manufacturer to get programming instructions and new remote controls. Popcorn Ceilings: The popcorn ceiling in the bathroom got wet and now it’s flaking off. If Trent wants to remove the popcorn ceiling, that’s the way to go, or else he can use a brush to clean it off and spray on textured patching material before repainting the surface. Energy Savings: Are solar panels or windmills a good way to lower electric bills? We advise Cindy to get info about government or utility company rebate programs that could make energy efficiency more cost-effective. Electrical: The three-way switches are not working properly in some of Mark’s rooms. He should have an electrician trace the wiring to make sure it was hooked up correctly.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Winter Car Care: Learn how to keep your car from getting snowbound when winter weather sets in. Humidifiers: If the dry air in your home has you waking up parched, here’s how to choose the best whole-house humidifier to keep things comfortable. Power Outages: What should you do when the lights unexpectedly go out? We’ve got tips on surviving a power outage.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Replacing a Driveway: You can’t put an asphalt driveway over a concrete driveway, so Donna will need to either remove the old driveway and add layers of new blacktop asphalt or use a product to resurface the existing concrete driveway. House Settling: Wall cracks, sticking doors, and popping nails are common, but it could be an issue if they’re happening all at once. AJ should have a home inspector or structural engineer check to see if it’s an active problem. Stuck Window: The wood window over the kitchen sink is getting harder to open and close. There are ways to repair the window but it would be a lot easier for Marcia to install a replacement window instead. Heating a Garage: Henry says it’s expensive to heat the garage with a natural gas heater, but an electric heater would be less efficient and cost even more. We suggest improving the insulation and using a kerosene heater when he needs it. Countertops: What’s that loud banging noise coming from Nadine’s kitchen countertop? The expansion and contraction of the walls and plumbing may be the cause if the countertop was installed too tightly. Insulation: Should you use open-cell or closed-cell spray foam insulation? They’re both equally effective, but Kevin should use closed-cell insulation in areas exposed to moisture. Drainage: Downspouts and drainage pipes in Shawnee’s yard are working fine, except for one small spot that stays wet. We don’t think it’s enough of a problem to be worth doing major repairs. Driveway Seams: The expansion joint is separating between sections of Ed’s concrete driveway. We’ve got a simple solution to fill and seal the gap. Shower Installation: With four sons, Cheryl wants to convert the bathtub into a shower. If standard prefabricated shower pans are too big for the small space, she could try shopping for the compact shower pans sold for RVs.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Improvement: New Year’s resolutions are for home improvement as well as self-improvement! Find out the best resolutions that are worth keeping. Renter’s Insurance: If disaster strikes, are the contents of your rental home protected? The right renter’s insurance offers some peace of mind. Sticking Doors: If your doors need an extra push to open and close, you need these simple sticky door solutions.                        Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Kitchen Cabinets: Soffits over the kitchen cabinets look outdated, but opening the space attracts dust and taller cabinets are inconvenient! Nancy can either paint the soffits to blend with the cabinets or install a convenient pull-down system to make her cabinet storage more accessible. Driveway Repair: When driveway blacktop starts to crumble, should the driveway be patched or resurfaced? Bruce needs a latex patching compound that will adhere properly to fill the holes, then a topcoat to cover it. Countertop Stains: Corian countertops in the bathroom are turning yellow around the faucets and drainers. When sanding and cleansing don’t work. Sharon gets tips on making a paste to bleach and lighten the stains. Doorway Cracks: Ralph wants to know what’s causing cracks in the corners of the doorways and how to fix them. It’s common for cracks to appear when there is movement around openings, but some fiberglass tape and spackle should repair them before he primes and repaints. HVAC Filters: Jeannie is worried that filthy filters and ducts are making her friend sick. An inspector should check for mold and other issues that the landlord may need to address to improve the air quality. Roofing: Should the edges of tar paper be covering the roof ridge vents? Jeff learns that it was overlooked and he needs to cut the tar paper to provide proper ventilation in the attic. Painting: The new layer of paint is starting to bubble and Catherine’s contractor just wants to paint over it again. She’ll want him to pull off the paint instead and prep the surface the right way before adding a new coat of latex paint.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Container Gardens: Craving fresh veggies in winter? Save money and eat healthy all year by growing vegetables in a container garden. Soundproofing: Find out how to avoid sleepless nights and distractions at home by blocking out all those annoying outside noises. Decorating Ideas: Repurposing an old fireplace mantel can add a great focal point to your home décor, even if you don’t have a real fireplace.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Bathroom Remodeling: What are the best materials for remodeling a bathroom? Jim can either use a simple and affordable DIY shower liner or gut and renovate the bathroom with a waterproof shower kit that can be customized. Bathroom Flooring: Bathroom flooring can take a beating with young boys at home. Michelle should look into tile, laminate, or water-resistant fabricated flooring that’s durable, cleanable, and won’t absorb moisture and stains. Fireplace Cleaning: Do you really need to have your fireplace cleaned annually? It depends on how much John is using it, since fireplaces should be cleaned once for each cord of wood that’s burned. Water Heaters: Should Colleen replace her old conventional water heaters with tankless models? Electric tankless water heaters aren’t very efficient, so we suggest either a heat pump or a great new water heater with outstanding features. Window Replacement: The seals in old dual-pane tinted windows are starting to fail. George should replace them with ENERGY STAR-rated windows that have the right glass and the right coating to reduce his air conditioning costs. Sagging Floor: A broken beam under the house is making the kitchen floor sag. Diana learns about installing a new beam next to the existing one to shore it up instead of trying to raise the house. Faded Wood Floors: After pulling up an area rug, Ty saw the sun damage that faded the wood floor around it. If he’s patient, time will fade the darker flooring to match and he won’t have to strip and refinish the whole floor. Cold Floors: How can you warm up the flooring above an unheated crawlspace? By adding insulation to the pipes and the floor joists, Christine will see an amazing difference.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Redecorating: Get tips on how to save money while redecorating your home on a budget. Organizing Cabinets: Having an organized pantry makes it easier to find things, saving you time, space, and money. Get tips on clearing storage clutter. Slippery Sidewalks: Learn the best ways to avoid slipping on icy sidewalks and prevent damage to walkways and steps.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Patio Covers: Janet wants to build a patio cover but isn’t sure how to attach it to the house. We suggest installing a removable patio awning instead, which offers more advantages. Brick Siding: Is there an alternative to extending the brick siding when raising the upper floor of a house? We give Joe some options for siding materials he can use instead that will complement the brick. Contractor Issues: When a gutter installation job wasn’t done right, Eve’s not sure how to handle the problem with the contractor. We’ve got tips on how to divert the water from the roof and options for next steps. Heating: Joan has a small outbuilding that she wants to heat and use as a craft space. It should be easy to run a gas line for a small furnace and add insulation to the shed. Sagging Floor: Moisture and humidity are making the wood flooring in a crawlspace buckle. Luke finds out about using a vapor barrier, venting, and proper drainage to keep things dry, plus other things to look for. Efflorescence: After stopping the water from pooling under her home’s foundation, Leta still has a powdery grey film on her wood floors. It’s simple to clean up those mineral salt deposits with a vinegar solution. Drainage: How are you supposed to drain water away from your house when it’s built at the bottom of a steeply sloped property? John will need to intercept the water with a curtain drain in the soil to redirect it down the hill.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Firewood: Find out how to choose the right kind of firewood for comfort and safety before lighting up that fireplace. Ice Dams: Melting ice on your roof can cause expensive damage. Learn how to prevent ice dams and how to get your insurance to pay for repairs. Disinfecting Your Home: ‘Tis the season for all kinds of nasty germs and viruses! We’ve got the best ways to clean and disinfect your home effectively.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Refinishing Wood Floors: Is there an easy way to refinish hardwood floors that are dull but not damaged? Jamie just needs to do a light sanding with a floor buffer to remove some old finish before applying a new coat of urethane. Wood Stove: Melana is installing a wood stove but wants to be sure it won’t damage the new electrical behind it. She must make sure the stove is placed far enough from the walls and add a heat shield behind it. Heated Driveway: Installing a heated driveway would be a big help when there’s lots of snow! Dylan gets info about outdoor radiant heating systems that are available, but they can also be expensive to operate. Wood Trim: There is worn and damaged woodwork throughout the home Paula is selling. It will be easier and less expensive to fill, prime, and repaint the damaged areas of molding than to replace it all. Cold Floors: John’s getting cold feet in the small room over a cinderblock crawlspace. He can either break through the wall to add access for insulation or add a layer of insulated subfloor in the room. Garbage Disposal: Every time Eden turns on the garbage disposal, it backs up gunk into the other drain of her double sink. She needs to clear the obstruction in the main drain line by blocking the disposal drain while plunging the other one.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Window Shopping: If you’re shopping for new windows, you need to know how to read this important label. Home-Selling Mistakes: When selling your home, avoid these kitchen trends that will scare off buyers. Saving Energy: Some appliances can run on standby power even when they’re off, wasting energy and costing you money. Here’s what to do. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Fireplace Drafts: There are drafts blowing in all around Susan’s manufactured fireplace. We’ll tell her how to see if it’s installed correctly and how to stop some of the drafts. Metal Siding Repair: Wade is fighting the insurance company to have his storm-damaged steel siding replaced appropriately. We explain why he should get a public adjuster to make sure the job is done right. Shower Odors: Phew! There’s a foul odor coming from the shower in Heidi’s basement. We suggest using a Borax solution to scrub inside the drain and installing a humidistat timer to make sure the fans are venting long enough. Driveway Drainage: When it rains, it pours…right down the driveway and flooding the front of Rob’s shop. We’ve got step-by-step instructions on adding a culvert across the driveway to intercept and drain the water runoff. Home Maintenance: Greg wants to be sure he’s keeping up with maintenance on his new home. We talk about the most important systems to check. Roof Leaks: Cindy’s corrugated metal roof keeps leaking around the screws and gaskets. Her best options are to add another layer of roof with an ice and water shield in between or to remove the original roof and start over. Home Heating: Will installing a drop ceiling help with heating a home with high ceilings? We agree that it will and encourage Kerry to add insulation on top of the ceiling, too. Uneven Floor: A dip in the floor of an old house is starting to twist the stairs. Deb finds out it would be easier to change the staircase than to raise the floor.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets: Find out affordable DIY options to refinish drab kitchen cabinets. Chimney Safety: Before starting a cozy fire this season, see if you need a chimney liner to keep things safe. Tile Stain Removal: Cleaning tile floors can be challenging, but we’ve got tips on how to remove the most stubborn tile stains.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Attic Space: Limited access to the attic makes it impossible to install insulation. We’ll tell Mark how to cut the drywall to make the attic openings bigger. Air Cleaners: Too much dust? Ann learns an electronic air cleaner for her HVAC system will be more effective than fiberglass filters for reducing the dust and pollen in her home. Driveway Stains: Tom’s truck left oil stains on his unsealed concrete driveway. He can use TSP to clean the driveway stains without having to pressure wash. Hot Water Pressure: Brrrrr! Elsie gets a jolt each time her hot water turns cold in the shower. She needs a new pressure-balanced valve to maintain the water temperature. Bathroom Condensation: There’s lots of moisture in the bathrooms, even with vented exhaust fans and dampers. We advise Eddie to install a humidistat timer to keep the air moving long enough to dry things out. Carpet Cleaning: Yuck! It looks like mold is growing on the carpeting on Sue’s concrete slab porch. We think it’s just algae that can be cleared up by using a steam cleaner. Asbestos Siding: Iron in the well water has left an unappealing golden glow on the asbestos concrete siding. Using TSP to clean it won’t be enough and Louis will have to paint the siding to cover the stains. Plaster Walls: Cynthia’s got questions about the plaster walls in her old house from 1896. We explain the history of wall materials through the years. Painting Cabinets: What’s the best way to paint wood bathroom cabinets that have been stained? Carol gets step-by-step tips on refinishing the cabinets and what products to use.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Tenant Rules: Do you know the 9 rules that tenants are most likely to break? Here’s what both landlords and renters need to know. Water Heaters: When that old water heater starts to leak, it could lead to expensive emergency repairs. Know when it’s time for a new water heater. Smart Thermostats: Keeping warm, saving energy, and reducing heating bills is made easy by installing a smart thermostat.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Water Pressure: The hot water pressure in Sam’s old house is fine everywhere except in the bathtub. Those old steel pipes could be clogged with rust or he may just need a new faucet or valve. Energy-Efficient Windows: Drafty windows are driving up the utility bills in Linda’s rental home. We’ll tell her how to use shrink film and weatherstripping caulk to make the windows more energy-efficient. Toilet Water: Darren is installing a 265-gallon rain barrel for his toilet water and has questions about filtering and water pressure. We’ve got some helpful answers. Wood Flooring: How can you level a subfloor to install hardwood flooring over it? We give Diane some info on carpentry solutions and applying a liquid floor leveling compound. Roofing Tools: After working on a number of roofs, Mark has some interesting ideas for innovative tools that can make it easier to remove roofing shingles. Concrete Repair: A concrete keeps cracking on Leah’s entryway and porch. There are plenty of products that will adhere and repair the concrete. Stone Walls: Dennis needs to know what kind of mortar to use for old stone walls that are two feet thick. We’ll tell him about the right mortar mix for stonework.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Gutter Maintenance: Faulty gutters can cause expensive damage all around your home. Learn how to keep your gutters in shape. Space Heaters: Want to warm up that chilly room? These space-age space heaters offer the perfect solution. Bathtub Refinishing: Tired of seeing that ring around the bathtub? We’ve got 4 refinishing ideas for a tub that needs a good scrub.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Contractors: Is there a way to handle pushy contractors with bad attitudes? We offer Rita a suggestion on how to find the best home improvement contractors. Pavers: George wants to know the best way to lock concrete pavers in place. He gets tips on how much space he needs and using a flexible patio border edging. Wood Paneling: There’s dark wood paneling throughout Dena’s house. We tell her how to clean, sand, and prime the paneling before painting it over. Bathroom Exhaust Fan: Condensation drips down the bathroom walls every time Brian uses the shower. He should get a more powerful exhaust fan that vents outside the house and be sure it runs long enough. Window Drafts: It’s freezing in Renea’s apartment! We’ve got tips on using weatherstripping caulk and shrink film to seal the drafts around windows and sliding doors. Hard Water: Even with a water softener system, mineral deposits are causing spots when Clair washes the cars. It’s time to have the water softener checked and serviced again. Wallpaper Removal: Is there an easy way to remove layers of wallpaper? We tell Thomas how to cut, moisten, and loosen the paste or rent a wallpaper steamer. Cleaning Garage Floors: Laurie’s garage floor is coated with layers of oil and grease. Her best bet is to power wash it with a TSP solution, then add an epoxy finish. Stone Countertops: Is there a maintenance-free natural stone countertop? Quartz and concrete are good alternatives to granite, but Ross will still need to give them some amount of care.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Frozen Pipes: Frozen pipes that break are a winter worry that can cause expensive damage. Find out how to keep your pipes from freezing. Choosing a Mattress: The right mattress can help you sleep soundly and avoid an aching back. Learn what to look for when mattress shopping. DIY Bathroom Remodel: Want to remodel your bathroom in time for the holidays? It can be done with these DIY tips.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. New Flooring: Do you need to strip a stained concrete floor before installing a new floor over it? Ted’s got lots of DIY options for floating flooring that doesn’t require any prep work. Old Wiring: Sandra’s house has very old knob and tube wiring and she’s starting to update her kitchen. Brittle, ungrounded wiring can be dangerous, so it’s time to update the electrical system. Fireplace Cleaning: How do you clean the creosote in a wood-burning fireplace? Bill gets suggestions on what to use depending on how much soot there is, plus safety advice on proper venting. Sealing Concrete: The vinyl siding on Peggy’s home goes all the way down to the concrete slab and traps moisture. It’s nearly impossible to seal, so she’ll need to remove some of the bottom siding and install rubberized flashing. Storm Windows: Should single-pane double-hung windows be replaced with insulated windows? Upgrading his storm windows may be all that Ron needs to do. Garage Flooring: There’s a low spot in the garage floor where water pools and freezes. Mona can try a patching compound to level the floor or modular garage flooring tiles to provide drainage and traction. Painting Doors: The layers of paint on Mark’s exterior metal door keep curling. He’ll have to remove the door, then strip, sand, and prime it so a new coat of paint can adhere properly. Cement Repair: An area of the porch that’s been cemented over keeps breaking off. Denise should use a patching product for better adhesion instead of adding cement on top of cement.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Improvement Costs: What are the most popular home renovation projects and what do they cost? How to budget for remodels and repairs. Wallpaper Removal: Getting rid of outdated wallpaper can be a chore, but we’ve got tips on making wallpaper removal less of a hassle. Composting Leaves: Once all those fall leaves have been raked up, don’t just drag them to the curb. Find out how to compost leaves for next year’s garden.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Electrical Wiring: An old home has a mix of old and new outlets and wiring. Lisa learns why it’s always safer to update electrical wiring and outlets and keep things grounded. Updating Formica: Mark needs to make his dark Formica countertop lighter. We offer info on a great product that gives the beautiful look of granite. Wood Countertop: Anne wants to install an undermount sink with a hardwood kitchen countertop. We caution her that wood is hard to maintain and suggest some easier alternatives. Exterior Paint: Why does exterior paint keep bubbling and chipping even after the siding was primed? The previous paint job may not have been done properly, so Dana will have to strip the surface and use a bonding primer, then repaint. Cleaning Windows: Is there a lazy way to clean windows? Marie will still need some effort to avoid streaking and clouding on the windows. Metal Roofing: Where can you find information about the different grades of metal roofing? Joe learns about a helpful website with lots of details on why metal roofs are a good investment. Plumbing: Mary will be installing a whole house water filter but doesn’t know where the underground lines are. We tell her where to look for the location of the main water valve inside her home, where the filter will be attached. Sink Insulation: Is there a way to insulate a kitchen sink to keep standing water warm? Jim may need to get creative with spray foam insulation or an insulating blanket. Wet Basement: After a long drought, Cindy is suddenly getting moisture in her basement when it rains. She’ll need to check the drainage in her gutters, downspouts, and grading around the house to solve the problem. Cabinet Hardware: The selection of doorknobs and cabinet hardware that Russell has found is disappointing. We’ve got tips on finding more variety through cabinet hardware websites to update his kitchen.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Driveway Stains: Tired of coming home to a worn-out driveway? Get ways to clean and seal driveway surfaces. Space Heaters: Chilly rooms are an age-old problem, but space-age space heaters offer the perfect solution. Garbage Disposals: Has your garbage disposal gotten its fill of holiday leftovers? We’ve got DIY tips on how to clear the jam safely and get it running again.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Repairing Stone and Brick: Mindy has multiple areas in her porch, steps, and brick that need repair. We have recommendations on what to use to restore the surfaces. Wood Siding: Can faded Western Red Cedar siding be restored or should it be replaced with pine siding? Mike will need to use solid stain either way, but unless it’s deteriorated, keeping the cedar siding is the more durable option. Tile Grout: The grout around the ceramic tiles looks dull and chalky. We give Joyce DIY tips on how to easily carve out the top layer of the old grout, then apply and seal new grout in its place. Weather Stripping: Jim is trying to get his doors to fit more tightly against the weather stripping. The easiest solution may be to adjust the lock strike plate to press the door in more firmly. Drainage Systems: The builder of Jill’s new home recommends installing a double set of drainage systems, but is it overkill? We agree it’s the right thing to do, and offer tips on grading, downspouts, and gutters. Painting: What is the proper order to paint the walls and baseboards in a room? Using masking tape to protect the edges, Jake should paint the trim first and then the walls. Insulation: Why is it always hotter or colder upstairs than in the rest of the house? Linda should add some blown-in insulation and cover her whole house fan in winter. Crawl Space: Why should you install a plastic vapor barrier and close the vents in a basement crawl space? Floyd learns how they help in preventing basement moisture.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Roofing: Find out whether it’s time to repair or replace that old, leaky roof and how to make roof shingles last. Washers and Dryers: Washers and dryers can cause leaks and fires if they’re not properly maintained. Here’s what to do. Heat Pumps: When temperatures plummet, you’ll want an energy-efficient heat pump system to improve comfort and air quality in your home. Know what to look for.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Soundproofing: Is your upstairs neighbor a ceiling stomper? Hopefully the noisy neighbor will agree to add soundproofing to the flooring while Tony uses soft goods to absorb the echo in his own apartment. HVAC: Gina has been advised to upgrade to a high-efficiency boiler with a direct vent system. We agree it’s worth the higher cost, which will be offset by rebates and energy savings, plus added home value. Concrete Repair: Need to fix cracks in a stamped concrete patio? Scott gets tips on how to color silicone caulk to match the existing concrete. Garage Insulation: Is it a good idea to insulate a detached garage? It’s worth adding spray foam insulation and fiberglass wallboard in case Christine decides to heat the garage in the future. Concrete Block Stains: The leaky cellar windows have been replaced and the problem stopped, but Ross still has stains on the concrete block wall. It should be easy to remove the efflorescence with a wire brush and apply concrete paint. Water Heater: Yuck! Lots of gunk came out of the old water heater when it was emptied. Gwen gets advice on draining the new water heater regularly to keep hard water mineral deposits from settling at the bottom. Refinishing Concrete: David’s concrete patio has gotten faded from the sun. We suggest some products for cleaning, staining, and refinishing the patio to make it attractive and durable. Sealing Gaps: There’s a recurring gap between the bottom doorsill and the concrete walkway behind Julianne’s house. We’ll tell her how to apply epoxy repair cement that will work better than the silicone caulking she’s been using.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hard-to-Kill House Plants: Find out the easiest to care for indoor house plants to bring live greenery inside your home and keep them thriving all winter long! Disappearing Window Screens: Storing your window screens is a lot easier with an innovative new product from Pella Windows that offers convenience and a beautiful view. Hot Water Heating: High energy costs got you down? We’ve got 5 ways to save energy and reduce your hot water heating bills  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Soundproofing: Want to block out the sounds of those noisy upstairs neighbors? We have two suggestions for Gloria on how to soundproof her ceiling to muffle those loud footsteps. Patching Concrete: What’s the best way to patch the concrete driveway near a garage? John gets a recommendation on a product that makes it fast, easy, and durable. Cleaning Siding: Water runoff from the narrow gutters is staining the aluminum siding of Patricia’s home. Cleaning products may help, but it might really be an erosion of the siding finish that needs painting instead. Insulation: Blown-in insulation around the ceiling AC ducts has gotten compressed over time. Robert gets tips on whether to remove the old insulation and start over or add more insulation to supplement what’s there. Windows: Old steel-framed windows that are screwed into brick walls are hard to repair. Deanne is better off hiring a professional who can measure and install replacement windows that will fit just right. Basement Walls: Brenda wants to know the best wall materials to use when renovating her basement. She should leave space between the concrete block wall and the framing to allow moisture to evaporate and use fiberglass-faced drywall. Propane Stove: How can Glen replace a wood-burning stove with a propane heat stove? He gets info on installing a propane burner and converting from natural gas. Sinking Concrete: A poured concrete slab for a porch is sinking because the sand wasn’t packed properly. Charles will have to break up the slab and fill the space before pouring new concrete. Countertops: Sam’s Formica kitchen countertop expands and contracts, pulling away from the wall. We offer tips on adding a foam backer rod to fill the gap and using caulk so she can install a backsplash.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Fireplace Safety: Fireplaces are a common cause of home heating fires. Learn how to maintain your fireplace to stay safe and warm. Window Treatments: The right window treatments can save you money on energy bills while adding style to your home. Find out the best options. Sprinkler Systems: Winterizing your sprinkler system now can prevent big repairs when spring arrives. We’ll discuss three ways to winterize your system.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Insulation: Dan converted his back porch and wants to insulate the floor but has limited access to the tight space underneath. His only options may be having someone spray foam insulation or digging out a crawlspace. Painting: A contractor did a poor job spray painting Anna’s doors with the wrong kind of paint. She’ll need to start over by using a citrus-based product to remove the paint, then using an oil-based primer and good-quality paint to do it right. Wood Paneling: What’s the best way to cover up dark wood paneling in a 1970s-era home? David can either try to remove the paneling without damaging the drywall or paint the paneling with a matte finish to brighten it up. Glue Removal: The carpet in Sylvia’s old kitchen is glued to the subfloor and she wants to replace it with hardwood flooring. A citrus adhesive remover will soften the glue so she can even it out and then she can add a new layer of subfloor. Bathroom Floor: Alfred would like to install a commercial-style floor covering that rises up a few inches of his bathroom walls. It may be costly, but he would need to have a shower pan built for the entire bathroom and then cover it with tile. Windows: The tall, narrow windows in Marlise’s house aren’t supposed to open, but they’ve slid down into the frame and left big gaps at the top. She’ll have to find a way to slide the windows back up and secure them in place. Columns: The porch columns in front of an old house are starting to rot again after being replaced once before. We tell Carol how to protect the columns from water damage and what to know about reinforcing the support. Water Pressure: It’s not that funny when Brad’s son flushes the toilet and the water in the shower gets cold. He’ll want to install a pressure balance valve in the shower to regulate the water temperature.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Environmentally-Friendly Concrete: A new carbon-eating concrete will make truly green buildings possible.We’ll discuss this new earth-friendly construction material. Space Heaters: Would you like to warm up a chilly area of your home? We share innovations in space heaters that can increase your comfort like never before. Stink Bugs: It’s stink bug season, when these creepy pests try to head indoors. We’ll share tips on how to keep stink bugs from invading your home.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Hard Water: What is the best system to use if you’ve got hard water in your home? We’ll tell Brian why a traditional salt-based water conditioner is better than a salt-free type to treat his whole house. Cement Stains: The uncovered portion of Linda’s cement porch is peeling and looks terrible. We suggest a product she can use that’s quick, easy, durable, and much more attractive than repainting the cement surface. Roofing: Randy wants to know if his metal roof is ventilated well enough after the contractor removed some vents. We reassure him that it should be fine with the proper insulation and venting already in place. Countertops: Is it possible to smooth down the surface of a countertop with a leathered texture? Ann finds out that a granite countertop would be easier to replace, but she may be able to refinish a laminate surface. Home Improvement ROI: Tom wants to know how to calculate the return on investment of home improvements. We discuss the cost vs. value analysis to determine ROI. Water Heaters: Is a tankless water heater a good option? Pete finds out that tankless water heaters are dependable, affordable, and offer high energy efficiency. Windows: Should you try to repair old double-pane windows that won’t open or close properly anymore? Donna would be better off replacing her 20-year-old windows instead of trying costly or ineffective repairs. Heating: Bob is trying to decide between natural gas heat or oil heat. With oil prices rising, natural gas heat is a good option that’s more efficient and more affordable, with rebates and free utility installation often available. Pocket Doors: The sliding pocket doors in James’ bathroom are starting to wear out. We’ll share tips on how to lubricate the rollers or remove the doors to replace the mechanisms. Concrete Stains: Trees are dropping acorns that are staining the concrete driveway. Gail will need a bleach solution and a scrub brush to stay ahead of the dark stains. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hot Water Outdoors: The convenience of hot water from your hose is now an option. Learn more about a great new product that makes it possible. Snow Removal Options: Do you need a snow blower or a snow thrower? Here’s what to know before winter snow starts falling. Attic Insulation: Blown-in insulation for your attic can now be a DIY project with an easy-to-use machine that gets the job done fast.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Accessible Bathrooms: Randy wants to remove an old bathtub and make his bathroom handicapped accessible. We tell him about design kits that offer customized components that seal out water and can meet various needs. Foggy Windows: Why do those old windows keep fogging over? The thermal pane windows in Sarah’s home have lost their insulation seal and there’s moisture trapped inside. Her best option is to replace them. Pressure Washing: What is the best, pet-safe way to pressure wash mildew from your siding? We’ve got info for Randy about a green product that’s specifically made for pressure washers and is safe for pets. Elevators: Is it possible to install an elevator in an existing two-story home? Rosalie learns that new technology is making it more common. Pipe Insulation: When contractors moved Caesar’s washer and dryer up against a cold outside wall, they didn’t properly insulate the drain pipe. We’ve got instructions on how to cut open the drywall and correct the problem. Kitchen Range: The commercial stove in Cindy’s kitchen is a fire risk next to her wood cabinets. Her best option is to contact the manufacturer to find out the specs for proper installation to keep things safe. Retaining Wall: A retaining wall in Howard’s yard is starting to lean over because of expansion caused by moisture. We’ve got advice on taking apart the landscaping blocks and adding stone for drainage, then rebuilding the retaining wall at a better angle. Lighting: Patrice loves the look of LED lighting for her bathroom but hates exposed wires. We offer ideas on ways to hide the cords instead of having to use battery-powered light fixtures.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Drafty Windows: When cold weather sets in, you’ll want to find and seal up any drafts in your windows. Here’s what to do. Standby Generators: If your home loses power, having a reliable standby generator can be crucial. We’ve got recommendations. Hiring a Home Improvement Professional: Not all home projects can be done by DIY-ers. We’ve got info on hiring the right professional for the job.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Damp Basement: Holly’s basement floor is cracked and changes color after it rains because it’s absorbing moisture from around the perimeter of her home. We’ll explain how to improve the drainage and keep things dry. Insulation: What is the difference between closed-cell and open-cell foam insulation? Michael learns about comparing the total R values, which one is best for moist areas, and the need for correct installation. Musty Odors: That persistent musty smell means Sandy has excessive moisture and humidity in her basement. We’ll discuss gutters, downspouts, grading, sealing the walls, and using the right size dehumidifier. Air Conditioner Vents: Condensation on the AC vents keeps dripping and staining the ceiling in Stanley’s Florida home. Because it’s so humid, he needs to insulate the air conditioning ducts Marble Surface: Gary removed the stain from his marble table and now wants to seal the surface. There are products he can use to seal and polish the glaze. Light Switches: The light switches in Ken’s home need to be in a certain position to control two locations. It seems like he has a three-way switch that wasn’t wired correctly. Water Quality: Colleen’s well water is high in sodium and calcium and her water softener needs to be replaced. We suggest a salt-based water conditioner for her home.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Improvement Products: What home improvement products are most in demand? We find out what items are purchased most often. Garage Doors: New garage doors provide the best ROI on your home. Here’s what to look for when installing new ones. Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide poses a real danger and can come from various sources. Learn what you can do to keep your family safe.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Wood Decks: After tearing down an old deck made of untreated lumber, David wants to know how to choose the wood for a new deck. We explain how to compare the ratings of pressure-treated wood depending on how it’s used. Cedar Shingles: Ivy may look lovely on exterior walls, but it causes lots of problems. We have advice for Lauren about restoring or replacing her cedar siding after removing the overgrown ivy. Floors: Is that dip in the bathroom floor caused by decay or a structural defect? Daniel finds out the most common cause and how to repair the floor to make it level again. Plumbing: Kate just discovered that her kitchen plumbing vent is sealed. It may have been overlooked when the vent was pressure-tested, but it should be okay to leave it alone if it’s not causing any problems. Insulation: What is the best way to upgrade insulation that’s blown into an attic? It’s a DIY project, but Doug needs to remove the old insulation first before adding new blown-in insulation that will provide a solid, targeted application. Molding: The nice bullnose corner molding in Natasha’s house has gotten dented over the years. We’ve got instructions on how to repair and repaint the molding without having to remove it. Window Leaks: The way Adam’s bay window and skylight line up seems to be causing some leaks. We’ll tell him how to add a diverter on the roof to redirect the water and put caulk around the windows to seal them better.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Repairs: Knowing the age of your home can help you plan for expected repairs. Here’s how to determine when your home was built. Lawn Care: Find out 4 steps to take now to get your lawn ready for winter and next year’s spring season. Air Quality: Do you want to cover up odors in your home or actually eliminate them? Learn the difference between air cleaners and air purifiers.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Wet Basement: Beverly’s done all the right things to try and keep her basement dry, but the moisture persists. We’ll tell her how to find out if the problem is a leaky underground pipe that’s attached to the leaders and if she needs more downspouts. Heating: Cathedral ceilings are keeping half of Ed’s house cooler than the rest. A split ductless HVAC system is an easy and efficient way to supplement the central air system. Concrete Siding: Mary wants to know if she should caulk her newly installed concrete siding. Adhesive is all she needs, except for caulk she can use on nails that have broken through the siding. Cement Floor: The dirt floor in a small hut needs to be finished. We’ve got instructions for Rob on how to tamp it down and pour cement to smooth it out. Windows: When old vinyl windows won’t stay raised, it means the springs in the window jam have broken down. If replacement parts aren’t available, Natalie will need to replace the windows. Floor Stains: Mike needs to get rid of pet urine stains on his wood floor. We’ve got advice on sanding and refinishing the floor, then sealing it with polyurethane. Exterior Painting: We’ve got advice for Anna about painting over the masonry foundation of her house. The first step is to use a good primer so the exterior paint will stick.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Insulation: Insulating an older home can be complicated, but we’ve got info on the best way to get it done. Indoor Gardening: When outdoor gardening season ends, you can keep things growing with an indoor container garden. Chimney Cleaning: Before you light a fire for those chilly nights, have your chimney properly cleaned by a professional to keep things safe and warm. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Split Ductless Systems: Is there a way to compare the costs and efficiency of a split ductless system vs. a central HVAC system? Dave should start with a heat loss analysis and consider a system with smaller ducts that’s easier to install. Carpeting: Sarah’s having a hard time scraping off old carpeting glue without damaging her subfloor. She’s better off pulling up the carpet and adding a new layer of plywood to create a smooth surface. Permits: How can Tyler know when a permit is needed for a home project? It’s usually required for a home improvement or replacement, but not for a repair. Asbestos: Nancy’s concerned that the ceiling tiles she wants to remove may have asbestos. It’s not likely, but there’s an easy way to get a tile sample tested for asbestos to be sure. Bathtub Repair: Oops! After the kids dropped a can in the bathtub, it caused a crack that’s leaking. We tell Chuck about a repair kit he can use to create a fiberglass patch. Screens: Florida winds keep blowing out sections of Pam’s screened porch. She’ll need to replace the soft vinyl screens with heavier metal screens that are sturdier and have more attachment points. Heating: James is thinking of replacing his baseboard heat with an electric furnace. Installing a high-efficiency natural gas furnace is a better option. Exterior Walls: An exterior retaining wall has a powdery white coating that’s spreading. Eunice learns that it’s efflorescence caused by absorbed moisture and is easy to clean off with a vinegar and water mixture. Flooring: When laminate flooring boards start to separate, they can't be repaired. Rick will have to replace the floor instead, but has some affordable choices.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Updates: Kitchen renovations can be costly, but we’ve got ideas on budget-friendly ways to update your kitchen. Water Heaters: Is it time to replace your water heater? Find out about four options to fit your lifestyle, budget, and energy efficiency needs. Hands-Free Faucets: When your hands are full, hands-free faucets are really convenient and have other advantages to offer, too.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Woodpeckers: That woodpecker tapping outside the house is damaging the siding. Denise learns some ways to discourage the woodpeckers from returning, plus options to replace her siding. Restoring Concrete: Gary’s concrete porch is flaking, but we can suggest a DIY product to easily repair the concrete surface. Glue Removal: There’s glue residue on the linoleum floor that Charlotte just had installed. There are products she can use to remove the glue, but she’ll need to be careful to avoid damaging the floor. Metal Roofing: John’s been getting different opinions on what to put under his metal roof. We think plywood will be stronger, quieter, and easier to insulate than using lathe. Flowerbeds: A flowerbed can look lovely, but how far from the house should it be? We give Michelle some advice on how to avoid drainage problems by grading it properly and not using edging that will retain water. Plumbing Noises: Why is the sump pump in the basement making gurgling noises? Jack needs to check the venting in the pipes to make sure there’s enough airflow. Rusty Siding: Galvanized nails are causing rust stains on Laura’s siding, but covering them with polyurethane won’t help. If they can’t be replaced with stainless steel nails, she can try using paint or solid stain to cover them up. Roof Vents: Should Eric install more roof soffit vents? Replacing them with ventilated soffit material is a better option for keeping the house well-insulated. Mold and Mildew: Is there an easier way to clean mold and mildew from exterior brick without damaging the mortar? There are a number of mildewcide products that Judy can use along with a gentle pressure washer. Pests: Lorna doesn’t know where the fruit flies invading her kitchen are coming from. We’ve got a simple idea to clean and cover the garbage disposal drain to trap and eliminate the pests. Solar Water Heater: Mark’s considering installing a solar water system. We agree it’s a good cost-effective choice for saving energy and discuss some options and resources.     Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Pro-Style Kitchen Ranges: Learn how a pro-style kitchen range improves your cooking power and adds value to your home. Home Standby Generators: If your home loses power, having a standby generator is not just a convenience but also a good investment. Storage Space: When it comes to storage space, every inch counts. Find out where to look for hidden storage options in your home.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Brick Walls: The dark brick wall in Cathy’s house needs some brightening up. We offer some ideas that may be better alternatives to painting the brick. Smoke Odors: Lingering smoke odors are a persistent challenge in the house James just bought. We’ll tell him how to get rid of the smell that’s embedded in the carpeting, flooring, walls, and window treatments. Painting: How should you paint over a ceiling that currently has oil-based paint that’s not sold anymore? Laura will need to clean the surface well and use latex-based paint with less sheen to hide imperfections. Wet Basement: Bobby thinks the water in his basement is coming from a rising water table, but we’ll explain why the problem is really poor grading and drainage outside his house. Insulation: Gonzalo is determined to seal any air leaks to make his home as energy efficient as possible. We have info about ways to test how well it’s insulated and why things shouldn’t be too airtight. Household Pests: Pesky fruit flies are a nuisance. Karen finds out about an effective product that helps to trap flies and mosquitoes, too. Portable Generator: Is there a convenient way to power up a portable generator since it’s unsafe to run it inside a house or garage? Tony can use a transfer switch instead of trying a DIY project to create a new socket through the wall.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Easy Energy Efficiency: Fall is not too late to make your home energy-efficient and comfortable with these 3 easy steps. Insulation: New, easy to install, Thermafiber Fire & Sound Guard insulation but offers both sound resistance and fire protection. Portable Infrared Heaters: Need some extra warmth in your room? Portable infrared heaters can keep things cozy while turning down the furnace to save money.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Driveway Repairs: What’s the best way to repair cracks in a concrete driveway? George learns the products to use to fill the gaps and seal his driveway. Phone Lines: Donna is frustrated by phones that aren’t working when connected to the lines inside her home. We’ve got a suggestion on how to tell if the problem is her phones or the wiring. Plumbing: What is causing a basement drain to back up when the washer and upstairs sink are used? We’ll explain to Kevin about using a lift pump to send the water into the main waste line. Window Shutters: How can Lisa decide what color and style of shutters will look best on her house? Siding clips can be used to hold up the shutters temporarily without drilling holes before making a commitment. Foundation Cracks: Tom’s got cracks in his basement floor and water seeping through the wall seams. We advise how to seal the cracks with epoxy and improve the outside drainage to keep the walls dry. Backsplash Tiles: Putting up backsplash tiles is made easy with adhesive contact paper. We know the product that Audrey can use. Electrical: Bob is shocked when he realizes the electrician he hired installed wiring throughout his house that’s not connected and is now covered up behind walls. We confirm it’s the contractor’s responsibility to fix it. Brick Floor: A brick floor in an old farmhouse kitchen and dining room has layers of discolored wax that must be removed. Barb can try a wax stripping product before refinishing the floor and adding a new solvent-based wax polish. Door Swing: The light switch is awkwardly located behind the door in Scott’s bathroom. It will be easier for him to move the switch to the other side rather than flip the swing of the door.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Heating Your Garage: Find out how to heat your garage so you can comfortably do DIY projects all year. Hidden Storm Damage: The impact of storms isn’t always obvious. Here are some things to look for around your home. Storing Window Screens: The change of seasons is a great time to clean and store your window screens. Learn the best methods to keep them in good shape.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Gutters: A narrow area of space between neighboring homes keeps filling with water. We tell Allison how to improve drainage and waterproof her basement. Bathroom Vanity: Nick needs to know how to attach the top of his bathroom vanity to the base. We’ll share tips about keeping it secure with plumbing, adhesive, and caulk. Wall Tile: Can you cover garage cement walls with tile? Shen finds out it can be done and how to reduce moisture with a waterproof membrane under the tile. Decking: Andrew wants to install a hot tub on top of a deck. We’ll share info about building a wood frame with extra support and using durable Trex decking for the surface. Insulation: Janet’s home addition isn’t insulated, but the open area underneath may provide the easiest access to install insulation where it’s needed. Drop Ceilings: A basement renovation includes updating the ceiling, too. Gonzalo gets advice on putting up drywall, leaving the ceiling exposed, or installing a new drop ceiling. Ceramic Tile Floor: Replacing carpet with ceramic tile flooring left gaps under the door trim. We explain how Mike can add plinth block to close the gap. Security Systems: Sherry wants to install a security system in her rural home. With a Wi-Fi connection, she’s got plenty of affordable DIY options to keep her home safe. Travertine Tile: The travertine tile in Steve’s kitchen has spots where things were spilled and dulled the glossy finish. We’ll suggest some products to help clean, seal, and polish the tile surface. Fireplaces: Lynne wants to reface her brick fireplace that’s surrounded by library paneling. Adhering tile is a great option that can give it a beautiful new look. Vinyl Flooring: Is it necessary to add a sound barrier to a vinyl floor that’s installed over a cement slab? We tell Tim that the included floor padding should be enough to muffle sounds.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Power Generators: When the power goes out, should you have a portable generator or a standby generator? We’ll discuss both. Exterior Home Improvements: What are the best exterior projects to improve curb appeal and provide a return on your investment? Find out from an expert. Leaf Disposal: How can you get rid of all those autumn leaves that are covering your yard? We’ll talk about a few easy options.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Refinishing a Deck: Half of Teresa’s deck is made of new pressure-treated lumber and the other half is painted. We suggest she waits a while before prepping and painting the whole deck. Energy Efficiency: How can Dane save money on his rising energy bills? Simple DIY tips like buying LED bulbs, installing a smart thermostat, and using drapes and blinds to block the sun are some solutions. Log Home: Is there a way to fill cracks on the inside walls of Nina’s log home? Wood fillers may help for a while, but the cracks are common for a log home’s rustic look. Asphalt Driveway: Nelson wants to seal his new asphalt driveway, but it’s too soon. Using a latex-based sealant next year is a better idea. Crawlspace Moisture: There’s just dirt, a layer of cardboard, and a musty smell in Bridget’s crawlspace. She needs to remove the cardboard to prevent mold and termites, cover the soil, and make sure there’s enough ventilation. Whole House Fans: What is the best location to install a whole house fan? Mike gets advice on where to place it to ventilate his house properly. Plaster Walls: The sturdy cinderblock walls on Kay’s home are covered with brick on the outside but unsightly inside. We’ll discuss using a layer of plaster to create a smooth new surface.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Heating Costs: If high heating bills are making your blood boil, you need these easy tips for cutting energy costs. Patio Heaters: The right patio heater can extend your outdoor living well into fall. Find out how to choose the best one. Air Quality: Eliminating odors is always better than just covering them up! We’ve got info about an air purifier that will have you breathing easily.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Wood Doors: Restoring solid walnut doors is worth the time and effort to get beautiful results. We’ll talk Mary through how to strip, sand, and refinish her wood doors to resist UV rays and last for years. Fire Pits: James needs advice about installing a fire pit. We suggest an easy DIY fire pit kit that comes with everything he needs. Stone Veneers: Can stone veneers be used to cover the walls of an old glazed block building? Greg learns it can be done with the right type of veneer adhesive. Indoor Pests: What’s the best way to catch indoor pests if you don’t want to kill them? Leslie offers Dorothy some ideas about how to relocate centipedes and crickets and prevent them from returning to her basement. Gravel Driveway: How should you maintain a gravel driveway? Keith gets info about using crushed gravel that will stay compact and costs less than asphalt. Outdoor Shower: Elizabeth says that the water pressure has suddenly dropped, only in her outdoor shower. She may just need to disassemble the shower head and clean out any debris that’s clogging it up. Brick Stains: The stains on a brick mailbox may be salt deposits. We give Louise some tips on using a vinegar solution to clean the stains and applying masonry sealant to protect the surface. Deck Stain: Justin’s wood deck currently has a semi-transparent stain. It’s easy to apply a solid stain over it with the proper preparation.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Floor Heating Systems: If stepping onto a cold floor gives you the chills, find out about floor heating systems with smart new technology. Air Purifiers: Trying to get rid of persistent odors from cooking, pets, smoking, and more? You’ll want to learn about these effective air purifiers. Sealing Drafts: Renters may have limited options when it comes to eliminating drafts in their homes, but we’ve got some easy, low-cost solutions.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Kitchen Sinks: Trying to decide between a single sink or a double sink? We give Kathy some info on the advantages of large kitchen sinks that make them so popular. Noisy Plumbing: Robert wants to reduce the noise from his drainage pipes. We’ve got tips to help muffle the sounds of the plumbing behind his walls. Brick Steps: You don’t need to replace brick steps that are starting to separate and crumble. We tell Sandy how to repoint the concrete mortar instead. Removing Moss: If you have unsightly moss on your asphalt shingle roof, there’s a solution. Roger gets suggestions on increasing sunlight, dissolving the moss, and adding copper flashing to prevent it from returning. Restoring Old Furniture: Removing the paint and adding stain to an old wooden dresser can be a rewarding DIY project. Sherry gets step-by-step advice on how to do it. Refinishing Wood Floors: After sanding his oak wood flooring, what product should Andrew use to refinish it? We’ll discuss clear varnishes and the prep work that’s needed. Garage Floor Stains: Cleaning grease stains on a garage floor is a common DIY project. We’ll let Kathy know what product to use and how to paint the floor so it will be easy to clean.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Greenhouses: Learn how to extend your gardening season by building a DIY greenhouse in your yard. Hardwood Floors: Refinishing hardwood floors can be a time-consuming project with great results. Find out how to restore the beauty of old wood floors. Home Improvement Costs: You may be overlooking a few items when you budget for that home improvement project. We’ll tell you about some hidden costs.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Carpenter Ants: When you take down a tree that’s infested with carpenter ants, where will they head next? Tom calms Anna’s worries about the pests going into her house. Outdoor Steps: The railroad ties on Matt’s long flight of landscaping stairs are rotted out. We’ve got advice on an affordable alternative for rebuilding the steps that’s durable and easy to shovel. Mold in Attic: Will adding blown-in insulation prevent mold in the attic? Tom explains why Kathy needs more ventilation, not more insulation, in her Cape Cod-style home. Electrical: If you’ve changed your electrical wiring plans in your basement, what’s the best way to patch up the holes and start over? Katherine learns about disconnecting wires at the electrical panel and ways to cover the outlet holes. Moisture Barriers: Moisture under Jonathan’s hardwood floor is causing it to swell and buckle. We’ve got suggestions about vapor barriers, drainage, and dehumidifiers. Home Warranties: Diane wants to keep up with the maintenance on her newly built home. Tom tells her about a useful home maintenance checklist and the importance of her homebuyer warranty coverage. Metal Roofing: The screened-in porch at Dan’s house gets way too hot because of the metal roof. He can deflect the sun’s UV rays and reduce the heat by applying a radiant coating to the roof. Soundproofing: What’s the best way to block out the sounds of noisy neighbors next door? Adding a second layer of drywall and a green glue noise-proofing sealant may quiet things down a bit for Donna’s son. Cracked Ceramic Tile: Should ceramic tile flooring with hairline cracks be repaired or replaced? Valerie’s best option is to remove the cracked pieces and replace them with tiles that are the same or something complementary.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Upgraded Gutters: Find out how installing and maintaining better gutters help manage water drainage and prevent damage inside and outside your home. Healthier Insulation: Indoor air quality begins with healthy products inside your walls. We share info on safe, reliable, and convenient fiberglass insulation. Shower Windows: Old homes often have shower windows. Learn how to keep bathroom window interiors dry to avoid the spread of moisture and mold.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Vinyl Flooring: Angela is tempted to paint her old vinyl floor that’s gotten yellow, but we explain why it’s not a good idea and suggest some affordable flooring options. HVAC Systems: How can you reduce excessive indoor dust? We’ve got tips for Joe on upgrading his HVAC filters and installing a whole-house electronic air cleaner. Shower Inserts: That lime green fiberglass shower insert has got to go, but Peg’s not sure if it should be reglazed or removed. We’ll tell her the better option to update her bathroom. Flagpoles: What’s the best way to fly your flag if you’re having trouble attaching a flagpole? Tom explains what Linda should do to reinforce a flagpole bracket outside her door. Wildlife Pests: How much wood could a woodchuck chuck? Al’s not sure, but they’re digging deep holes that are destroying his property. We’ve got a suggestion on how to humanely remove and relocate some wildlife pests. Contractor Problems: After a home fire, Beth has been scammed by a contractor she hired and wants to know what to do. This may be a situation that requires legal action. Water Sensors: Do water sensors really work? Doug learns why they’re worth the investment to detect leaks and frozen pipes.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Storm Preparation: Is your home prepared for storm season? Take some important steps to avoid damage and power failure when severe weather strikes. Painting Challenges: Some surfaces, such as vinyl siding and cast-iron tubs, can be hard to paint. We’ve got advice on refinishing difficult surfaces. Composting Tips: Fall is a great time to use all those grass clippings and leaves to start a compost pile. Find out what’s needed and how to do it.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Fire Pits: Is a homemade fire pit better than a metal version that may get rusty? Katherine is deciding between buying a metal fire pit that’s convenient and can last for several years or building a fire pit with bricks or pavers using DIY kits. Roofing: Should you remove existing roof shingles before installing a metal roof? Metal roofs are a great investment, but we’ve got advice for Craig about the advantages of removing the existing layers first. Tree Roots: Massive tree roots are making it hard to build a backyard deck. We have two suggestions for Nancy on how to design her deck or remove the roots. Spiders: Will can’t get rid of the daddy long-leg spiders in his garage. Tom has a few ideas on natural insecticides, cleaning out nests, and using traps to keep spiders away. Jacuzzi Bathtub: What can be done with a jacuzzi bathtub that has mold in the pipes and a fading finish? Robin learns some simple DIY solutions to clean out the plumbing and jets, but reglazing the tub won’t be that easy. Insulation: How effective are radiant barriers in deflecting heat? We discuss insulation and ridge venting tips with Steve to help him save energy. Heated Flooring: Donna is looking for the best heated flooring for her home. We have helpful info about the conveniences of radiant floor heating systems. Exhaust Fans: What causes mold around a bathroom exhaust fan? Eric finds out how to prevent this common problem with better ways to control moisture and humidity in the room.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hiring a Contractor: Should you DIY or hire a pro for your home project? Learn how to decide whether doing it yourself is a good idea. House Insulation: Adding insulation is the best way to save on home heating and cooling costs. Find out new options to make it an easier DIY project. Home Maintenance: Do all those home maintenance projects seem like they never end? Here’s how much time most homeowners spend doing them each year.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Mold and Mildew: There’s a musty odor in Gail’s house after it rains and she’s not sure how to detect mold. We’ll tell her how to prevent moisture with better ventilation, dehumidification, and drainage. Windows: Can old casement windows be replaced with double-hung windows? Russ finds out the challenges of what’s involved. Driveway: What are the best options for fixing a driveway with cracks? We’ve got advice for Karen on what to use to repair most of her driveway and how to replace the sagging apron. Water Heater: A tankless water heater and a hot water recirculation system can be just what Charlie needs for his large home that is sometimes vacant. Find out the advantages of replacing his two existing water heaters.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Building a Deck: If you’re planning to build a new composite deck this fall, we’ve got tips on the Trex Transcend Deck Kit to make it an easy DIY project. Hot Water Recirculating Pumps: Tired of waiting for the water to heat up for your morning shower? Learn how to save time, money, and water with a hot water recirculating pump. Air Purifiers: When it comes to odors in your home, you want to eliminate them rather than just cover them up. Find out the advantages of using an effective air purifier.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Shelving: Shelving provides stylish space for storing and displaying things, but what’s the best way to hang shelves? We’ve got tips for Ellie on how to properly anchor shelves for the weight they’re supporting. Insulation: Do radiant barriers used with insulation in the attic really help to reduce temperatures? Marcus learns that they can be a good option that does work but must be installed properly. Cracked Concrete Floor: Lori has some fairly minor cracks in her concrete flooring and finds out how to easily patch them with some DIY products. Central Vacuum System: What can cause condensation and water to build up in the pipes of a central vacuum system? We explain to Sean where the moisture is coming from and how to insulate the vacuum pipes. Garage Floor Stains: Winston has stains on his cement garage floor that won’t come out. Tom has a suggestion on how to resurface the porous floor with an epoxy coating. Gardening: The grapevines in George’s garden are turning brown and the grapes are falling off. A fungal disease is probably the culprit but can be treated with a fungicide. Vinyl Siding: Installing vinyl siding on a shed is Beverly’s next DIY project, but she’s not sure whether to use screws or nails. We tell her the best type of fastener and how to make sure the vinyl siding doesn’t buckle. Laminate Flooring: Can you close the seams on laminate flooring that’s starting to separate? When a floating floor isn’t installed right, Rich’s only option will be to take it apart and replace it.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Childproofing: Are you overlooking ways to keep your child safe at home? We’ve got some important and easy childproofing tips. Home Renovation Costs: It may be easier to renovate an old home rather than buy a new one, but home renovation costs can be expensive. Hear some advice on how to pay for your home projects. Concrete Repair: Chipped, cracked, or worn-out concrete is a common problem that often needs repeated repairs. We’ll tell you how to fix concrete the right way the first time so you won’t have to do it over again.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Fencing: Hope needs a fenced-in yard for her dogs but wonders what fence material is best for ground that’s near a creek. We suggest an attractive choice and how to set the fence posts so water won’t be a problem. Heating: Would a heat pump in Robert’s home that already has electric baseboard heat, good insulation, and thermal windows be even more efficient in keeping things warm? We’ll discuss the best use of a heat pump and how to coordinate it with other options. Wet Basement: After a torrential rainstorm, Lynn discovers water gushing around the pipe into her basement. We’ve got DIY advice on how to seal the weak area of the wall and ways to divert water away from the house. Windows: A large old single-pane window isn’t very energy-efficient. Darryl finds out some window improvement options, including installing a new double-pane window, using solar shades or UV coating, and adding insulation. Wasps: Of all the outdoor pests at Gail’s house, the wasps are the worst and keep building nests on her home siding. Sticky traps and natural repellents can help keep the wasps under control.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Attic Insulation: Did you know attic insulation is the single most cost-effective way to keep your home comfy and cut energy costs? Find out how to insulate your house from the top down. Patio Heaters: Would you like to enjoy your outdoor living space even after the weather turns chillier? Learn about some great patio heater options to extend your outdoor entertainment season. Foreclosed Homes: With home prices so expensive, you may be tempted to buy a foreclosed home to get a deal. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of buying foreclosed properties.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Building a Dock: Composite decking materials are durable and long-lasting, but are they the best choice for building a dock at a Florida waterfront home? We’ve got some advice for Dennis on the benefits and downsides to consider. Roofing: Will a tarp help prevent heavy snow buildup on a log cabin roof in winter weather? LaDonna learns how effective a tarp may be and what other options to consider for removing snow from her roof. Insulation: Chandler wants to use spray foam insulation in his attic but is worried about overheating and shortening the life of his roof shingles. We address his concerns and explain why it shouldn’t pose a problem. Cedar Siding: Is it better to paint or stain cedar shingle siding that’s starting to fade? Cindy finds out why a solid stain may look better and last longer than paint, with less maintenance. Light Fixtures: What’s causing the bulbs in a light fixture to flicker when the hot water is turned on? We enlighten Russ on why this odd issue may be happening when his hot water heater kicks in. Squeaky Floors: An old house with wood floors has its charms, but Amanda’s squeaking floor isn’t one of them. We offer step-by-step DIY tips on how to find the source of the noise and tighten those floor joists. Leaking Faucets: When old spigots outside the house start to leak, should they be repaired or replaced? We’ve got info for Tom about some DIY plumbing repair kits that can help with this common problem. Damp Clothes Dryer: Sherry has noticed that clothes left in the dryer are coming out damp, even after they’ve been completely dried. Condensation may be the issue and we tell her some ways to try dehumidifying the area. Termites: Termites in Glen’s Florida home are becoming pesky pests. We discuss whether the pest control company’s recommendation for Borax insulation in the attic will be effective in controlling them.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Smart Home Devices: How hard is it to create a smart home? We’ll look at popular new devices to make your home smarter, safer, more convenient, more energy-efficient, and more fun! Improved Insulation: Installing fiberglass insulation is now easier and less itchy with a new product that’s strong, yet soft as cotton. Find out what it is, just in time to insulate your home for fall and winter. Home Office Space: Working from home in a small space can be a challenge. We’ve got ideas on how to organize and optimize any area for a home office.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Wet Basement: Beverly’s wet basement doesn’t need a French drain; it just requires an easy fix with improved outside drainage to keep the water away. We’ll tell her what to try to keep the basement dry. Insect Stains: The swarm of flies outside Mike’s house is leaving stains all over the siding that are hard to clean off. We’ve got suggestions on a treatment to apply to help clean the siding and how to keep on top of the fly problem. Flooring Options: Finding bedroom flooring to match the flooring in other rooms of Char’s home is a challenging design issue. Comparing floor samples might help her decide. Water Heater Problem: Is one water heater enough to direct hot water to the far side of a large home? Stewart may want to decide between installing a second water heater or a hot water recirculating system. Painting Over a Stain: After Sarah’s roof leak was fixed, it left a ceiling stain that paint won’t cover. Priming it first will help her get the yellow ceiling white again. Brick Wall Cracks: What’s causing the long, wide vertical crack in a brick wall behind Jim’s garage? He’ll need a structural engineer to see if it’s an active or inactive crack and a contractor to make the right repairs. Popcorn Ceiling: Dirty popcorn ceilings can’t really be cleaned; they must be repainted or removed instead. We’ve got step-by-step advice for Margaret on how to update her old ceiling.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Bathroom Remodel: Are you planning a bathroom remodel? We’ve got important tips to stay on schedule and on budget while reducing stress. Disposal of Used Building Materials: Once you’ve finished that renovation project, how do you get rid of old appliances and used materials? Here are some helpful suggestions. Paint Spraying: If you’re tackling a big painting project, an airless paint sprayer can help you get the job done in a third of the time. Find out our recommendations to make your next DIY painting project easier. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Paneling: The 1970s called and they want their wood paneling back! Ashley finds out how to remove old paneling from her walls, insulate the space behind it, and install moisture-resistant drywall in its place. Composite Decking: Can you replace old decking with Trex materials installed on an existing deck frame? Mike learns it can easily be done, but what to check for when ripping up the current deck. Roof Preservation: How reliable is a product that claims to seal and rejuvenate roof shingles so that they’ll last longer? Debbie finds out about a cost-saving way to extend the life of her roof and how it works. Cracked Patio: When you need to repair cracks on a cement stamped patio, are you able to match the color of the cement? We explain to Tom that it’s important to fill the cracks but why clear caulk may be his best option. Toilet Stains: What’s causing the dirty ring to keep reappearing in Cindy’s toilets, no matter how often she cleans them? We’ve got tips on some products that help eliminate toilet stains. Flooring Adhesive: Vito has some used flooring that he wants to install in his bathroom, but it won’t stick. We have advice on flooring adhesive and how to apply it. Crawlspace: Is there an easier way to remove excess dirt under the crawlspace of a house? Bowen’s considering a tough job that must be done by hand and finds out some concerns about exposing too much of the home’s footings.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Additions: If you need a bigger home for your growing family, a home addition may be your best option. Here’s how to plan a home expansion. Standby Generators: Losing power is a common headache after seasonal storms, but a reliable standby generator will keep the lights on and ensure your HVAC and appliances are up and running. We’ve got recommendations. Preventing Mold: This common household item is one of the biggest causes of mold. Find out what it is and how to keep mold at bay. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Water Heater: What’s that leak under the hot water heater in Michael’s garage? It’s probably just the pressure relief valve, but it may still be time to replace the old water heater. Termite Trouble: Heather’s about to buy a home, but a termite tunnel was found in the garage. We’ve got advice about termite inspection and who should pay for any termite damage and treatment. Indoor/Outdoor Carpet: Does indoor/outdoor carpeting in a screened-in porch require an underlayer to prevent moisture? Tom has a unique suggestion on a product that Kendall could use. Deck Stain: Phyllis asks if she really needs to wait six months before staining the deck she just replaced. Find out why treated lumber needs some time before stain is applied. Lightbulbs: Fluorescent vs. LED and watts vs. lumens: Stuart wants to know the pros, cons, and differences when choosing among different types of lightbulbs. Cooling the Attic: When Mary replaces her old shingles with an architectural roof, should she remove the attic fan? Tom recommends cooling the attic with a ridge vent instead. Sliding Patio Doors: Hardened grit in the sliding door is making it difficult for Tracy to open and close. We’ve got tips on the best ways to clean out the gunk and keep things moving smoothly. Houseflies: There’s more than just air coming from the ducts in Nels’ house; the furnace is blowing out flies, too. He needs to find and eliminate the nest.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Social Front Yard: Want to expand your outdoor living space? Try designing an inviting social front yard where you can relax and entertain. Deck Makeover: If your deck is ready to be replaced or updated, you’ll want to check out a great composite deck kit that makes it an easy DIY project. Tree Stump Removal: Taking down trees means dealing with the stumps that are left behind. Find out your options for removing tree stumps.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Removing a Wall: Can tearing down a wall between two rooms be a DIY project or do you need a contractor? Tom gives Sharon some advice on what to consider and how much of the work she can do herself. Staining a Deck: When prepping a deck to be stained, should it only be cleaned or should you sand it, too? Howard finds out what to do to make his deck stain last longer. HVAC Problems: Rose is having trouble heating and cooling a room addition, but learns about a ductless HVAC system that offers the perfect solution to keep things comfortable. Mold Issues: Why is mold taking over Dan’s pole building? We explain what is causing the mold to grow, how to properly treat it, and ways to prevent it. Home Humidity: A new heat pump isn’t removing the humidity in Pat’s home, but what she really needs is a dehumidifier. We’ve got tips on the types of home dehumidifiers she can consider. Damp Basement: After replacing an outside downspout with a cement splash block, Kevin’s having problems with moisture in his basement. Tom advises him on how to move the water away by extending the downspout or using underground piping. Garage Flooring: Are there good flooring products that can be used in a garage and will stay in place? Dan learns about some great floating tile systems that are designed for garage floors.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Problem Neighbors: If you think your neighbors are annoying, you’re not alone! Find out the most common neighbor complaints. Cooling Your Home: Cooling your home starts with keeping the heat outside. We’ve got tips on how to adjust the temperature. Foundation Cracks: Cracks in your home are common, but when are they serious? Learn what causes them and when to worry.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Ceiling Cracks: What should Jamie do to fix cracks in the ceiling that keep returning? Tom offers step-by-step advice. Metal Roofing: Patrick is ready to change his roof but wants to know if metal roofing is worth the cost. There are advantages that can make it worthwhile. Old Bathtubs: What’s the best way to restore an old bathtub and add a showerhead? Caitlin learns how to get it re-enameled and plumb up the piping. Preserving a Porch: Ray likes his big wraparound porch but it wasn’t previously maintained. Tom gives him some info on how to preserve it with stain. HVAC Issues: The air conditioning cools every room in Stephanie’s house except the master bedroom. We have suggestions on how to make the HVAC more efficient. Well System: What is causing air pockets in David’s well water system? Problems with the pressure tank may be causing his explosive faucets. Rodents: Chipmunks may be cute, but not when they and other pests are getting into Linda’s steel shed. Here’s how to fill the gaps to keep wildlife out. Pet Hair: Man’s best friend is constantly shedding and David needs advice on how to keep the floors and carpeting clean. We’ve got suggestions on how to keep the dog hair under control.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Home Ventilation: Is your energy-efficient so airtight, it’s unhealthy? Proper ventilation will keep the fresh air flowing so you can breathe easier. Concrete Repair: Trying to repair old concrete by covering it with a new layer doesn’t work. We’ll let you know the best way to resurface worn-out concrete. Painting Your Shed: Does your backyard shed need sprucing up? Painting your shed is an easy DIY project you can do before storing summer stuff away.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Home Insulation: Carol’s raised house is hot in summer and cold in winter, but adding insulation may be all that’s needed. Tom explains how to keep things comfortable. Pest Control: When a surplus of spiders sets up camp around the yard, things can get creepy. Tom advises Ben on how to eliminate the nests and control the pests. Universal Bath Design: Having a bathroom that’s accessible for everyone is important for homeowners of all ages and abilities. We share info with Tracy on designing a bathroom to assist with special needs and where to find recommendations and resources. Linoleum Flooring: Chad wants to know if it’s worth trying to patch an old and damaged linoleum floor. Find out why flooring replacement may be a better option.  Patio Cover: Annette is ready to finally get the patio cover she’s always wanted, but it may require some modifications to her low-pitch roof. We suggest who to speak with to get the architectural specs she needs. Pool Decking: Cool deck coating is easier on your bare feet when walking around the pool on a hot day, but Gloria says it can be hard to clean. We let her know what product to look for. Electrical Upgrade: Is it really necessary to install a new electrical panel to power up appliances in an older home? Jason gets good news about adding the new circuits that he needs. Water Conditioner: Do you need a water softener or a water conditioner for your home? Howard learns about the right product to treat the lime and scale in his water.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Storage Sheds: Need a new shed to gain some outside storage? Get ideas to suit your style and budget. Concrete Crafts: Who knew you could be creative with concrete? We’ve got info about fun and easy craft projects you can create with concrete. Removing Ivy: Ivy may look lovely, but it can damage your home’s exterior and attract pests. Here’s how to remove ivy and prevent it from taking root again.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Underground Roofs: Replacing the large roof on a unique underground home may be a challenge. Stan finds out which professionals he should speak with to design specs for the job. Basement Flooring: Should Mary install new carpeting in her basement or are there other flooring products she should use instead? We offer tips on better options for basement flooring. Garage Door Openers: When Bob’s garage door opener stops working, he wants to know if he should get a surge protector for the circuit board. Tom thinks it’s unusual but trusts the brand he’s considering. Floor Joists: Does an old kitchen floor need to be reinforced to support the weight of appliances? Tom tells Laura how to prevent sagging floors. Converting to a Gas Dryer: How hard is it to run a gas line to convert from an electric dryer to a gas model? Abram finds out it’s not difficult but should be done by a professional to avoid dangerous risks. Home Addition: When is a deck renovation really a home addition? Tom answers Diane’s questions about adding a closet and laundry room off her bedroom. Cedar Deck: After Tom builds a new cedar deck, we offer steps on how to preserve it. Shallow Roofs: What materials should you use on a shallow roof? Charlene finds out what she should use to replace the existing asphalt shingles on her roof with a shallow pitch.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Conserving Water in Your Yard: Can you have a healthy yard while conserving water? Here’s how to keep it growing through dry conditions. Decorative Ceilings: When adding architectural details to a room, don’t forget to look up! We’ve got tips on creating an eye-catching decorative ceiling. Terrazzo Flooring: Love traditional Terrazzo flooring but can’t afford the cost? Find out about an affordable alternative that offers the same beautiful look.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Toilet Noises: Why is Kathy’s toilet squealing when she runs her washing machine? Tom has ideas about what’s causing the noisy plumbing. Concrete Walkway Gaps: Are the spacers in your concrete walkway starting to deteriorate? Here’s what Robert found out about filling the gaps. Smoke Smells: Did the former homeowners leave behind the stench of smoke? William learns how to clear the air and get rid of smoke smells. HVAC Odors: When the air conditioning comes on, Jeff’s wife detects strange odors in their house. Cleaning ducts and replacing filters may do the trick. Refinishing a Patio: Portions of Grace’s beautiful concrete and brick patio are starting to pop up and turn colors. We’ve got tips on restoring her patio and preserving the pattern. Bathroom Walls: Besides tile, what are some other options for finishing a bathroom wall? Janet may want to consider a bathroom surround. Chimney Repair: After having her chimneys repaired, Lisa is advised to get them resealed, too. But Tom’s not so sure it’s necessary.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Energy-Efficient Windows: South-facing windows feel toasty in winter but can make you swelter in summer. Here’s how to feel comfy all year. Composite Decking Materials: Your existing deck may be solid but still need resurfacing. We’ve got info about composite decking materials that are easy to install and maintain. Protection from Ticks: Summer is the peak season for disease-carrying ticks. Find out how to protect yourself before they bite. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Caring for a Wood Swing Set: Do you have a wood playground or swing that’s getting dark and dingey? Tom has info for Erin on how to clean and brighten the surface of her pressure-treated wood. Installing a Koi Pond: Lee has questions about creating a custom koi pond. We’ve got answers on how to build it and what kind of forms and liners to use. Covering Ceiling Tiles: What are the options for covering a stained tile ceiling in a three-season porch? Kathleen learns more about how to use the faux tin ceiling she wants. PEX Piping: Is there a risk of rodents chewing through newly installed PEX piping? Dave finds out how likely it is. Painting a Deck Ceiling: After power washing the wood ceiling on her deck, Blair wants to know whether it’s better to repaint it with oil or latex paint. Find out which is the better choice. Moisture in a Laminate Floor: What causes water to seep up through laminate flooring over a concrete slab? We advise Michelle on how to improve drainage and reduce moisture that may damage the floor. Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets: Bob has sturdy old kitchen cabinets that he wants to strip and refinish. We have tips on what products and tools to use and how to do it. Heat Pumps: Is a heat pump the best way to reduce humidity in your home? Pat learns some better options and what the ideal indoor humidity should be. Condensation on Brick Surfaces: When Bruce finds white frost on his home’s bricks, he gets tips on sealing the chimney to prevent moisture and condensation. Cast Iron Tub Sounds: What’s the loud snapping sound that Sherry hears after using her cast iron tub? Tom calms her fears. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Child-Proofing Your Home: Are you overlooking ways to child-proof your home? Remember these important DIY tips for keeping your kids safe in every room. Energy-Efficient Windows: If you’ve got drafty old windows, there are ways to make them more energy-efficient without replacing them. Find out the best options for restoring windows in an older home. Upgrading Your Front Door: Making a good first impression begins with having a great front door. Here’s what to consider when choosing a new front door that will add value and style to your home.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Musty Odors in a Vacant Home: Mary wants to know what could cause musty odors in a vacant home she’s purchasing that is built on a slab foundation. We’ve got ideas on how to clear the air once she moves in. Installing Flooring Over a Heated Concrete Slab: What kind of flooring should be used in a home with radiant heat? Tom gives some advice to Russ about radiant heat-compliant flooring products. Cleaning Brick Stains: Removing mortar stains on exterior brick requires careful cleaning. We have suggestions for Gail on how to clean brick surfaces without damaging them. Home Construction: What should you look out for when buying a home built in the 1960s? Tom talks with Phyllis about the quality of home construction in the ‘60s. Removing Smoke Odors: Beautiful exposed brick walls inside a home are holding onto the smell of smoke. We let Jeff know what to do when cleaning fails to solve the stinky problem. Replacing a Hot Water Heater: Eva is concerned about replacing the hot water heater that’s installed on an upper floor in her home. Tom has suggestions on how to affordably replace it with the best type of hot water heater. Caulking a Bathtub: Is there a trick to recaulking a bathtub? We confirm a great suggestion that Vernon remembers about the best way to apply bathroom caulk. Concrete Driveway and Pressure-Treated Deck: Bill wants to know if his new concrete driveway needs to be sealed and what to do about the sap coming out of his new pressure-treated wood deck. Tom offers tips on how to care for both. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Tired of watching water and money go down the drain to keep your lawn lush? Find out about drought-resistant grass to make your side of the fence greener. Love the look but can’t afford the cost of granite countertops? We’ve got info about an amazing product that applies easily and gives outstanding, realistic results on any surface. Thinking of redecorating your home but don’t know where to begin? It may be time to consult with an interior designer.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Problems with Contractors: What should you do when a contractor does poor work or leaves a job unfinished? Tom offers advice to Oralee about next steps after she loses money on an incompetent brick mason. Clogged Pipes: After installing a new water heater, Louis still has low water pressure and suspects a broken or blocked pipe. Tom discusses the best replacement for galvanized pipes that tend to clog. Tree Roots and Foundations: Can pear trees do damage if they’re planted near a home? We ease Lynn’s concerns about her concrete foundation. Window Mold and Mildew: Condensation in vinyl double-paned windows can cause problems with mold and mildew. Don may need to maintain or replace some windows and reduce the humidity in his home. Granite Countertops: What are some good options for refinishing an old laminate countertop in Frankie’s kitchen? Check out this amazing DIY product that provides the look and feel of granite. Bathroom Cleaning Products: Charles wants to know what cleaning product he should use for his bathroom tile and other surfaces. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Stylish Lighting Updates: If you want to create a new look in any room, pendant lights are a bright idea! We’ve got tips on installing energy-efficient pendant lighting as an easy DIY design solution. Best Irrigation for Hot Weather Gardening: Micro Irrigation can help with the big problem of helping plants thrive in hot weather. Here’s what to know about directing water right where you need it most. How to Prep for a Storm: Are you prepared if unexpected severe weather strikes? Get tips on what to have to keep your home, car, and workplace ready for any emergency. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Removing Carpet Glue: Removing exterior carpet that’s been glued down is a sticky situation. Maria gets advice from Tom about pulling up carpeting on an outside step and refinishing the surface. Leaky Storm Shelter: Storm shelters are meant to offer protection from the elements. Jack finds out what to do about a shelter roof that’s leaking. Tile Fireplace: Susan wants to remove tile around her fireplace hearth and paint the bricks. We’ve got info about painting over the tile instead. Cracked Tile Floor: If floor tiles crack and you can’t find the same kind, should they be repaired or replaced? We offer Dan some suggestions on why tiles crack and how to get creative when replacing them. Building a Deck Step: Steve wants to add a step to make it easier to enter his cabin from the deck. Tom has advice on how large the step should be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Pets enjoy outdoor living, too, and need a safe space to have fun. Here are four suggestions on ways to protect your pets and give you peace of mind while enjoying your yard with your furry friends. Building a deck is one of the best ways to expand your outdoor living space. This DIY project is made even easier with a great deck kit on the market. Are hungry deer destroying your garden? We’ve got tips on how to prevent deer from turning your yard into a buffet. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Kitchen Flooring: It may be better to replace a worn-out kitchen floor that’s past it’s prime instead of trying to restore it. Tom has suggestions about durable new flooring products for Harry in Delaware. Ceiling Stains: Long after a leak stops, you may still have ugly water stains on your ceiling. Pat gets advice on how to cover up the water damage on her drywall ceiling. Rotted Wood Under a New Roof: What happens when a new roof is installed over rotted wood? Dave needs info on addressing structural repairs that were neglected when his new roof was installed. Treating an Outdoor Wood Playset: Erin’s pressure-treated wood playset is turning black and starting to crack. Tom offers details about wood cleaning products and stains to help protect and restore it again. Flagstone Walkways: Can you install a flagstone walkway on top of a concrete slab? We give Will some tips on how to do it and what to use. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: If your outdoor concrete patio is old, worn, or cracked, there’s an easy way to give it a new look with pavers that can be installed right over the existing surface. We’ll give you the info you need for this DIY project. Cleaning bathroom mold and mildew is a chore you can avoid with a few easy preventive steps. Find out how to keep mold away with these smart bathroom ventilation tips. Leftover paint can be great for touchups and new projects, but how can you tell if it’s still good to use? We’ve got tips on how to properly store leftover paint so it will last. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Painting Vinyl Siding: Is there a good way to paint vinyl siding? David learns what kind of exterior paint to use and how to apply it so he can change the color of his home. Foggy Glass Doors: Condensation between the panes of an insulated glass door can ruin the view. We’ve got advice for Pam on how to clear things up. Site-Built vs. Modular Home Construction: Michael wants to know which is the better home building option. We share the pros and cons of both traditional site-built construction and modular homes.  Silencing a Squeaky Door: Squeaky doors can be annoying, especially when oil and new hinges don’t do the trick. Sandy finds out another way to silence a persistent problem with upgraded hinges. Solar Panel Installation: Rick is looking for advice on installing solar panels on his property instead of on his roof. Tom shares some concerns about the true savings of solar panels and what to be aware of when researching different companies. Basement Foundation Cracks: Significant cracks in basement walls have Dixie concerned, and for good reason. Tom offers info on when a structural engineer is needed and what to do next. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Above ground pools can be a fun addition to your backyard space. But the site of a 4-foot tall, 24-foot-wide bathtub in the middle of your entertaining space doesn’t always add to the outdoor décor! We share tips to make above ground pools an attractive and affordable addition to your backyard space. We love sitting around the fire pit on a cool summer evening. But if you don’t have a fire pit, building one is now as easy as stacking blocks. We’ll tell you about a system of modular rustic building blocks that can be assembled to create firepits, plants and more. Vinyl fencing has become more and more popular as an alternative to traditional wood fencing. But is it really worth the extra cost? We’ll walk you thought the pros and the cons of vinyl vs wood fences. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Retaining Walls: Tom, helps Alex figure out the easiest way to build a retaining wall by using interlocking blocks instead of wood. Replacement Windows: Elie wants to know the most energy efficient materials for a replacement window. Rust Stains: Doug needs help to prevent rust stains from forming on his pool and patio areas. Getting Rid of Woodchucks: Darlene is dealing with a major population of wood chicks that are destroying her garden. Best Soft Floor: Casey needs help choosing the best floor for her special needs son. Find out why we recommend cork flooring. Cleaning Wood Floors: Margaret wants our recommendation for the best floor cleaners for wood floors. Bad Electrical Outlets: Steve needs a solution for a number of ungrounded electrical outlets in his home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Summer vacations can be fun and relaxing experience, but they can also be fun for burglars who love hitting vacant houses! We share a few tips to keep intruders away and make sure the home you come back to is exactly like you left it. Do you consider energy efficiency when buying appliances, like refrigerators or televisions? You might be surprised to learn that your homes biggest energy waster may live in the laundry room. It’s your dryer! We explain why and how to get the most out of this mission critical machine. Need to set a post for a fence or flagpole, but don’t want to go through the trouble of mixing and pour concrete to keep it in place?  We share a trick of the trade to do that in minutes! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Smoke Odor: Reno’ing a home occupied by smokers? Yuck! We share how to get rid of smoke smells and help you breathe easy once again. Leaking Shower: Max has a leaking Carrara marble shower. Tom shares two options for repairing a shower leak, one super simple and another that’s not! Building a Porch: Is adding a brand-new porch possible for a DIY’r? We help Darlene avoid a potential DIY disaster. Fixing a Foundation Leak: Leaking foundation walls are easier to fix than you can imagine. We walk Jeffrey through the solution. Getting Rid of Moles: Leslie explains how to get rid of a mole problem, by eliminating their food source. Restoring a Concrete Patio: We help Carrie with the best paver product to recover a concrete patio that looks worn. Fixing Rotted Wood: Joe wants to know why his newly painted wood is rotting after only two years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: We’ve got 3 low-cost kitchen renos you can get done for well under a thousand bucks to add style and convenience without draining your bank account! Creating an outdoor living space is a popular home improvement project. But what’s best for your home: a deck or a patio? We’ll walk you through the options. You don’t think too much about your roof until it leaks. Then its ALL you can think about. We’ll share tips to spot small problems before they become big ones. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Cedar may be rot resistant but its not rot proof. We help Beverly select the best stain for her cedar covered patio. Taking on home improvement project can lead to lots of surprises, but Nils discovered a huge snakeskin when taking on his, along with a whole host of insects. Tom offers tips to avoid infestations, and the best pesticides to use. Mercedes needs help dealing with roof leaks caused by nail holes that were mistaken made inside metal flashing. We share the best way to repair a roof for a permanent fix. John needs tips to increase the output of solar panels, that have become dirty due to pollen and tree droppings. Popcorn ceilings may have been popular a long time ago but now they’re a big pain! Leslie shares tips on how to remove a popcorn ceiling. Brian needs help with a septic system that seems to be creating a sink hole! Tom quickly nails down the problem and provides the solution. Mil needs a solution for repairing a cracked shower pan. Tom shares a trick of the trade to set a shower pan and make sure it never cracks again. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Now is a great time to make sure your home’s cooling plan is set to deliver both comfort and energy efficiency. We share low-cost to no-cost cooling tips that will do just that. Between the splinters and the staining, a wood deck can take a fun out of summer weekends. We highlight a better option available at Lowes called a Trex Deck Kit which makes updating or replacing your deck with beautiful new composite decking a breeze. Do you need a new roof and want to save on air-conditioning costs? You can actually do both. We’ll tell you about some very cool roofing technology that can help keep you comfortable and save you money. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Brick foundation walls have lasted over a century but mortar repair and repointing is needed to cover the next 100 years! Tom shares the best recipe to mix your own mortar from cement, sand and lime. Jenny says she needs a floor finish that can stand up to three dogs and a man! We walk her through how to refinish a floor. Have you ever noticed vinyl siding that’s buckled on one or more sides of your house? We help Earl understand why this is happening and what it’ll take to iron out those ruffles! Flagstone patios are a great start to an outdoor living space but not when the stones are loose and buckled. Darlene needs help restoring her patio for long term stability. If you are remodeling a house with plaster walls, should you remove the old plaster or cover the walls with new drywall? We help Earl avoid a valuable lesson Tom learned when taking this project on for the first time. Noisy pipes can be annoying. Tom helps listener Damian understand the hidden source of clicking and ticking sound inside the walls and floors of his house. Lauren is taking on a paint project in an old house and is worried about exposing her young kids to lead paint. Leslie shares her own experience and how to avoid exposure. Water heaters can drip, but it doesn’t always mean the tank is bad. Tom shares tips from his years of home inspection experience to help Michael track down the source of a leaking water heater and possibly even fix it himself.  Firepits are a popular project. Tom and Leslie help Michele with tips on how to build your own including the best mix of mortar. Marty wants to know the best way to repair a crack in brick without seeing the crack. Get tips on how to find and mix a color dye to match the brick. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Taking on a paint project this summer? We’ve got six things to remember before you pick up the paintbrush. Concrete is one of the most durable building products ever invented but even concrete needs repair to fix cracks or worn surfaces. We share easy fixes to make without replacing the original concrete. Is your outdoor furniture looking like it’s at the end of its days? Painting can bring it back to life. We’ll share tips on the easiest way to get that done. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Barbara from South Dakota has loose tile flooring in her recently renovated bathroom. Howard in Texas wants to know how to fix a retaining wall that is starting to lean. Judy from Minnesota want help getting rid of moisture in her below grade space. Michael in Tennessee wants to know if he can use a foam spray to support a fiberglass showers stall. Alison from New York needs a humane way to get rid of squirrels in her yard. Craig in Rhode Island wants to replace a shut off valve but can’t easily access it without ripping apart his bathroom. Alicia from North Carolina has a cracked patio slab that keeps getting bigger and doesn’t know what to do about it. Jim in Delaware is wondering what part of his dryer vent he needs to replace. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you getting ready to take a vacation this summer? From burglars to break downs, we’ve got tips to help take care of your house while your away! If your lawn is full of weeds, don’t just pull them before you pay attention to what’s causing the problem. We’ll share how to “read” your weeds just ahead. As we move into the “dog days” of summer, we’ve got tips to help keep your AC chugging along through the hottest days of summer. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Helen in Arizona is having an issue with bubbling paint on her wall. Mike from Arkansas has a leaky upstairs window when it rains and thinks it’s due to the soffit. Debbie in Ontario needs to know how to fill cracks on a cement patio. Randy from Texas has a deck that has wood that is starting to shrink due to moisture. Susan in California wants to know if she has to resurface her driveway or just replace it entirely. Ken from Texas want to know if he should add a ductless air conditioning system to his home. Sharon in Ohio has a furnace that is pulling sewer gas from her sump pump. Pat from Nebraska has a 5 year old dishwasher that won’t work anymore. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: The summer season with its intense heat can be really rough on your roof. We share a way to protect, restore flexibility and extend your roof life by 5 years. Hurricane season is here and researchers predict 19 big storms! We’ll help you make sure your house is ready. Having trouble with allergies? It’s important you have a filter that can truly catch the dust, dirt and pollen that makes its way onto your lungs! We’ll share a new type of HVAC filter that is so effective, it’ll last for an entire year. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Catherine from Arizona needs help laying new sod and making sure is survives the super-hot climate. Steve in Tennessee is running out of hot water! We help nail down why his electric water heater may be failing after only 5 years. Angelo from Florida wants to know how to prep fiberglass window shutters that have faded for a new paint job.  Mary in Alaska has is considering going to tankless water heater and wants to learn more about them. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’ve ever taken on a tiling project, you may know that it’s messy and can take DAYS to wait for the adhesive to set, before you can grout. We’ll show you a trick of the trade to install tile that’s a lot less messy and far faster. Do you think the best way to save time and energy cutting the grass is to set the mower as low as possible so you won’t have to mow that often? Well, you might be surprised to find out that can actually end up being MORE work in the long run! Find out why and what length to cut the lawn in Spring, Summer and Fall (and yes, it changes for each season!) If you’d love build a firepit, patio or outdoor kitchen, we show you really easy ways to get those projects done by stacking precast, concrete blocks.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Cheryl in Virginia has a concrete porch that is starting to come apart and wants to know the easiest way to repair. We’ve got a great solution for Dan from Tennessee who is having carpenter bees eat his way through his fascia board.  Norma in Delaware wants to update her bath by adding a one-piece shower panel. Marty from Mississippi is looking for the best product is to match and seal his brick and mortar wall. We help Eleanor in Virginia with easy ways to clean algae off her composite decking Stewart from Rhode Island wants to know the best replacement for an oil-fired water heater. Sheila in Oklahoma is looking for recommendations on countertop paints and whether they work well. Ben from Illinois wants to know how to painting a popcorn ceiling. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Staining a wood deck is a popular summer project. We share how to get that project done in a weekend, plus we review new high efficiency airless paint sprayers that can cut project time by as much as a third.  Summer marks the riskiest time of year for pool drownings, the leading cause of death to young children! We share a pool safety approach called layers of protection, the best way to backup parental supervision and keep kids safe. Now that the AC season is in full swing, have you thought about changing your air filter? If you have a forced air system, that filter plays an important role in keeping your cooling system operational. We’ll explain why and highlight a new type of filter that can keep your system clean for a full year. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Pam from Missouri wants to install an automatic sensor onto her dimmer light. Dan wants to know how to deflect heat from his tin roof. Heather in Texas needs help getting rid of black mold in her bathroom. Max called in asking, what the best joist size for composite decking? Lorrain from Vermont has an ant invasion in her home. Brandon in California is having water hammer issues with his shower. Pat from Iowa wants to know the best way to paint aluminum siding. Bob in Tennessee wants to know if cell service is impacted by a metal roof. Mary from Wisconsin wants to know an alternative to rubber back carpeting for her basement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you a do-it-yourselfer but need a better do-it-yourself workspace? We show you how to create a productive and efficient garage workspace to handle projects big and small. If your AC is going to go on the fritz… it’s going to happen on the hottest day of the year. We review the top reasons AC systems decide to quit and what you can do to restore the cool. Replacing your front door is a project that can increase both your home’s value and its curb appeal. Find out how best to get that project done. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Anthony in New York wants to know how to repair a chimney that is losing its stucco. Mia from Iowa is looking for the best way to remove glued outdoor carpeting from her deck. Kevin in Georgia needs help getting rid of carpenter bees that are destroying his screened-in porch. Sally wants know if there is a fix for double pane windows that are fogging up between the panes. John from Maryland is looking for a side venting gas water to reduce the space his current one takes up. Fonda in South Dakota needs ideas on how to makeover her patio while she is redoing her backyard space. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: You may be ready for summer, but is your outdoor living space ready, too? We’ve got a pre-summer checklist to make sure your house is good to go for the season ahead! Heavy spring rains can find their way through your roof. That’s why now is the perfect time for a roof inspection. We’ll share how to do just that, without climbing a ladder! And now that we have windows open more often, are you noticing that yours are not easy to GET open and closed? It could be a sign that they weren’t installed right. We explain the fix. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Shirley from Nebraska hard water has caused her to replace her water heater four times in twenty eight years and wants to know what the solution is. Jason has noisy plumbing that only happens in his master bathroom tub. Shirley in Oregon has some concerns about fire safety with solar panels on her roof. Mike from Wisconsin wants to know how to restore a field stone foundation. Carol in Arkansas has a commode that isn’t draining properly. Mary from Maryland has wood bees destroying her porch. Russell in Texas has pre-hung doors that aren’t lining up with the frame. Jan from Texas wants to swap her shower drain with her toilet drain. Randy in Idaho has a cracked foundation that is an inch and a half wide and needs advice on how to repair it. Jenni from North Dakota wants to know how to move a lilac bush. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Skylights let in lots of light but some let in leaks leak more than others. We’ll tell which ones leak the most and share a tip the easiest way to add a skylight to your home in just 2-hours or less. If you’ve got any furry family members, it’s smart to think about which flooring types might hold up best in the face of scratchy paws, accidents and excessive shedding! We review the best options. They say good fences make good neighbors but how exactly do you build a good fence? We’ve got the solution for fences that stand the test of time. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Holly from Kansas has a banging noise coming from her new washing machine. Bill in Florida needs some tips on removing cigarette smell from a house. Nancy from Michigan needs the recipe for deck cleaning soap. Michael in Florida has a pool deck that is starting to crack. Daniel form California is concerned about using the proper sealer on his new travertine flooring. Pat in Hawaii is curious about prepping her roof for fibrous aluminum paint. Rob from Iowa need help getting rid bed bugs they picked up on vacation. Michelle in California spilled glue on her floor and needs help getting it up. Brian from Ohio is dealing with a settling house and wants to know if he should re-square it. Erica in Illinois has peeling walls and ceiling paint that is starting to wreck havoc in her home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: According to the new survey, over 60% of homebuyers experience "Buyer’s Remorse" after the sale! We'll share the most common regrets and how to avoid them.  If your roof is more than 10 or 15 years old, you might be thinking that it’ll need replacement soon. Maybe not, we’ll share a new product that can add 5 years of life to your roof with a single treatment. Also ahead, buying green is all the rage today but did you ever wonder what makes a product truly green? There are actually a lot of factors and just as many false claims of “greenness.” We will help sort the ones that count. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Mary in Massachusetts is wonder if she can close her ridge vent. Mathew from Texas has an issue with his sink flange. Debra in Pennsylvania wants to know why she needs to replace her rubber flashing? Tim from New York wants an easier fix to repair sink cracks. Donna needs help cleaning showers. Vincent in Delaware is concerned about the cracking in his home. Carolyn from Iowa wants to know how to brighten up quartz flooring? Randy in Ohio needs the best stain for a freshly built deck. Sharon from Tennessee wants to how to choose the right water heater. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: This is a great time of year to give wood decks, trim or fencing a spruce up. We’ll give you tips on how to pick the perfect stain or brightener to have it fixed up for the season ahead. When kids hit the playground, safety is the last thing on their minds – but it really needs to be the first thing on our minds when we are creating these spaces. We’ve got guidelines to help. Do you have areas around your house that are just ridiculously difficult to clean? We share tips for cleaning some of the most difficult spaces. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Luke from Illinois wants to know if he can put a metal roof on top of shingles. Sabrina in Washington has newly poured grout that is already cracking. Mark from South Carolina wants to know the pros and cons of close cell vs. open cell insulation. Clyde from Missouri wants to know if an electric tankless water heater exist? Elvis in Texas needs help replacing Kitec plumbing. Donna from North Carolina needs to fix squeaky floors. Frank in Massachusetts has paint coming off his cedar siding. Carol from Texas wants to know if you can put a stain on pressure treated wood? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Have you been sneezing a lot lately? The allergy season is in full bloom and may last longer than usual. We share the best filters to keep allergens away. We love to celebrate the DIY spirit but as your DIY coaches we want to make sure you’re always careful when taking on those projects! Find out about a new study that details which home improving tools cause the most injuries - and here’s a hint - they’re NOT power tools! Are you ready to take on a big painting project this holiday weekend, like maybe painting the entire exterior of your house? As challenging as that may sound, its actually totally doable. We’ll share tips on tools that make the job a lot easier. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Sherlynn From Delaware has a leaky water pipe for her pool pipe. Sam in Louisiana is concerned about knob and tube wiring and how it might affect his insulation. Ella from Arkansas wants to know if putting new roofing layer over mold will have an affect on her allergies. Barb in Illinois is having a problem with hot water stopping mid-usage. Charlotte from Louisiana wants to expand her patio to divert water from pooling in her yard. Bryce in North Carolina needs to repair the ceiling in his bathroom with sheet plastic. Krista from Vermont has low water pressure from her shared well. Tim in Arizona is curious if it’s worth it to insulate a garage.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’d love to have a backyard swimming spot, we share a cool option over traditional chlorine pools; natural in-ground pools that are pond-like, gorgeous and earth-friendly options.  Looking for a new floor that’s beautiful, durable and totally waterproof? We found it! It’s called Duravana and made using stone hybrid technology. We’ll share more about this affordable new flooring technology. Memorial Day Weekend is here. And along with barbecues and pool openings, we honor the service and sacrifices of our troops. That’s why now is a good time to display your patriotism by flying the flag. We’ll share tips, including how to attach flagpole brackets to a wide variety of siding materials.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Roy wants to know the best way to put in a walkway for his yard and if it’s a DIY project? Michelle in Alabama is having a mold issue just above her baseboard. Sage from New York is having a minute long delay for his outside faucet to turn on. Selena in Tennessee wants to know if she needs to replace her supply price if she is replacing all of her drainpipes. Moshe from Ohio wants to know if there is a caulking silicone that will last longer than a year. Andrea in Ontario has black mold behind her sink that she can’t get rid of. Anthony from New York has a stucco chimney that is starting to break off. Heidi in North Carolina wants to know if she can move the fuse box inside and how to find someone to finish converting a sub panel. Carol from Oregon has rusty well water corroding her toilets. Margaret in Virginia has a rusty cast iron tub she would like to restore.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Building an outdoor kitchen may be on your “someday” list. But someday could be today thanks to a new type of very affordable modular brick. Find out how building a complete outdoor kitchen could be as easy as stacking blocks. It’s always nice to hear the sounds of birds around your home - unless it’s he sound of a bird crashing into your window! Bird strikes are surprisingly common. We’ll share tips on how to protect your feathered friends. If your Spring Cleaning includes power washing stained concrete surfaces, we’ll share a sealer you can use to protect against a wide variety of stains and more. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Mike in Vermont needs advice to deal with his deck stain that is starting to peel. Dana has picture windows where the glazing is starting to come undone. John from Virginia wants to know what he can do to hide the rust on his standing seam metal roof. Joan in Montana is looking to make an enclosed addition to her home and wants tips for building it. Jeff from South Carolina has a feral cat problem terrorizing his backyard. Renee in Delaware has a sump pump that’s making some worrisome noises and wants to know what the cause might be. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Want to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in your backyard but keep OUT of the public eye? Tom and Leslie share the best ways to plant privacy screens as a natural option over fencing. Building a new deck is a great way to start really enjoying your outdoor spaces, but what exactly is the right TYPE of wood to use? We walk you through the four most common options to help you chose the best decking at a great price. By the time most of us spot a roof leak, the water is usually dripping through a ceiling somewhere. But roof leaks actually start forming a LOT earlier than that. Find out how to catch leaks-in-the-making. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Justina needs help identifying whether she has carpenter ants or termites. Paul from Hawaii needs help getting rid of a strong mildew smell under a granite countertop sink. Eloise in North Carolina has a problem with squirrels eating away on her home. Ken from North Dakota needs advice on how to choose the best attic vents for his house. Debbie in Arkansas wants to know how to remove liquid nails from exposed brick walls. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Butterflies are one of the best parts of spring and summer and attracting them to your means you’ll have an army of pollinators working hard in your garden. We share the top 5 flowers that will encourage them to make your home, their home. Are you ready to take on a big paint project this Spring like a deck, a fence or even the entire exterior of your house? It’s become a lot easier to do. We walk you through new high-efficiency airless paint sprayers.  Right about now we are in the middle of the Spring flooring season, a time when new products, patterns and colors emerge and establish trends for years to come. We'll share insight on what’s new, what’s next and what’s trending in flooring for the season. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Alan from Tennessee has a cracked driveway he needs to patch. Jane in Washington DC needs a eco-friendly, non-toxic rug. Tonya from North Carolina has a door sill and jamb that is starting to rot. Kirk in California wants to know how to preserve an older patio. Kimberly from Texas needs to repair a leak in her metal roof. John in Florida wants to know the best product for weatherstripping fiberglass double doors. Pat from Iowa is wondering if it’s possible to paint aluminum siding? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Outdoor kitchens have never been more popular -- but cooking and dining outside require special recipes of their own. We’ll have tips for easiest way to build an amazing outdoor kitchen. Spring storms can turn everyday objects into projectiles that can-do serious damage to your home. Learn how a DIY inspection that can help you spot small repairs before they grow into big problems. Did you know that slips and falls cause more than 1 million visits to the emergency room each year? We’ll share a super durable new anti-slip products that can make both indoor and outdoor surfaces safer and more attractive. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Kelly from Texas wants to know how to properly vent his attic. Dawn in Florida is curious how to retexture her ceiling. Charles from Ohio needs durable landscaping that can handle his dogs. Cynthia in New York wants to know what the correct price should be for waterproofing. Olen from North Carolina is wondering if PEX or ONIX piping is better for his radiant flooring. Judy in Florida has wants to restore her laminate countertop. David from Texas has rotting wood siding towards the bottom of his house and needs a replacement. Gayla in Washington is looking for cooling solutions for her home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you green with envy over your neighbor’s lush lawn? We’ll share tips to help you catch up and get started on a healthy green lawn. In their first ever State of the Pro Report, Lowes polled their pros to learn which projects are in demand for 2022, shifts in projects being completed by DIY vs. Pros. The result offer a great roadmap for both pros and the consumers who are planning projects this year Spring cleaning isn’t just for indoor rooms. Now is also the time to spruce up a favorite outdoor room—your deck, we share deck cleaning tips. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Rob in Iowa has a cedar trim deck that he is trying to paint and is considered about the boards not matching the rest of the deck. Sandy from Pennsylvania is trying to figure out which is the best type of garage to build with her colonial. Steven in Texas is looking for a formaldehyde and VOC free kitchen cabinets. Merilyn from Louisiana found pet stains under her carpeting and needs advice cleaning them. Gary in Hawaii wants to split electricity between two fixtures. Hugo wants to know the best HVAC to replace his 30 year old one. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If your roof is more than 10 or 15 years old, we share a new product that can add 5 years of life to your roof with a single treatment. Are you planning a project to improve your outdoor living but want to be sure the project makes your home more valuable? We’ll share the details on a project that can deliver years of enjoyment along with great ROI when it comes time to sell. If you’ve lost heat this past winter and thinking about installing a backup system, we’ve got recommendations for the best backup heat options – especially when the power goes out. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Dave in Kansas needs a recommendation on a good kitchen floor. Marie needs design advice about slab kitchen cabinet doors. Scott in Iowa wants to know what he needs to do before painting over loose plaster. Anne has a crack on her front porch she needs help fixing. Robert from Washington has rust spots forming on his stainless steel appliances. Teddie in Oregon is dealing with a wet crawlspace and foundation. Jeff in Iowa needs a solution for a toilet that empties bowls in two bathrooms when flushed. Deb from Wyoming has one patch of grass that doesn’t grow properly like the rest of her lawn. Bill and Gene from Missouri wants to know how thick to make a new concrete floor and what the best finish is. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Winter's harsh winds, snow, and ice can weaken your roof, allowing heavy spring rains to seep through. That’s why now is the perfect time for a roof inspection. We show you how! Just last month, the average national price for regular gas reached its highest price EVER!!! That strain is impacting the costs of home improvement. We’ll share tips on how to work with contractors during these unusual times. The laundry room might seem safe enough, but anywhere there’s extreme heat and lots of water, there’s potential for trouble. We’ll walk you through the most common trouble spots and tell you how to prevent leaks, fires and breakdowns. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: George in Iowa needs advice on making sealing a deck a one-time job. Tina from Tennessee is considering a install a metal roof on top of asphalt shingles. Mark in Oregon has an old hardwood floor he wants to restore. Margie from Delaware wants to know if she should lay plastic vapor barrier underneath her house to reduce moisture. Chuck in Rhode Island needs advice to get rid of blood stain from carpeting. Louise from Texas is having a hard time removing and cleaning a vine from her wall. Allen in Idaho has a cracked foundation that is still cracking after being filled with epoxy. Dan from Pennsylvania needs a way to clear out clogs in his cast iron plumbing.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you looking forward to having a colorful Spring flower garden? We share tips on the quickest way to get those bright colors blooming, no matter where you live.  If you find that your cakes are salty and your meatloaf is sweet –you might need better lighting in your kitchen! We’ll share tips to brighten the space – and maybe even make you a better cook! We highlight some of our favorite earth-friendly home improvement ideas this hour, to help you save energy, water and money! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Lee has cement board siding that needs repairs after getting scratched up by a new puppy. Laura in Mississippi needs tips to keep moisture levels to a minimum in her home. Lester from Tennessee wants to deal with squeaky carpeted floor. Diane in Tennessee wants to know how she should apply Venetian Plaster to her entertainment space. Dottie from Oregon wants to know what the best concrete stain to use. Dean in Pennsylvania needs help insulating a basement. Colleen from Texas wants a product recommendation for resurfacing a dock. Ralph in Missouri needs advice installing cathedral ceilings. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you're hoping for a lush, green lawn, now is the perfect time to set up your sprinkler system for success. We’ll explain how to dial it in for water efficiency and effectiveness. Building a fence is a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal, home value and keep out the wildlife. Whether it’s a project you want to do yourself – or one you’d plan to hire out for – we’ll share 5 tips to help make sure your fence project is a success! Mulch is an important element to any spring garden or landscape plans, but how much mulch is too much mulch? We’ll share tips, including an important caution about one popular type of mulch to avoid - because can grow fungus that sticks to your house and your car and be almost impossible to get rid of! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Heidi in North Carolina wants to know if she should move her main fuse panel inside. Mike from Minnesota is trying to vent his dryer more efficiently. Donna in Washington needs to clean cedar siding that is starting to chip. Dennis from Wyoming asks if he can install green board behind a thermoplastic shower wall. Judy in Tennessee wants to know the best way to care for hardwood flooring. Doug from Virginia needs to clean spray foam insulation off Vinyl Siding. Ted has a musty smell in his finished basement. Joyce in Missouri wants to know what product to use to refinish hardwood floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: How’s that Spring cleaning going? A cluttered home can definitely leave you feeling stressed. But clearing the deck of clutter is not something that has to take a huge commitment of time. We’ve got 5 clutter busting tips that can help Are you green with envy over your neighbor’s lush lawn? We’ll help you catch up with Spring lawn care tips to get started on a healthy green lawn. Got Rot? Or is that Termites! Damaged wood can detract from your home’s value. But to make the fix, you first have to know the cause. Learn how to tell what’s been eating your home and make it go away for good. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Peter from Maryland needs a solution for cracks in hardwood floors. Pam in Missouri has recessed lighting and wants to know if it’s smart to stock up on lightbulbs needed for these fixers, or just replace them. John from Wisconsin is move a washer and dryer in his spare bedroom and wants to know install the venting. Lynne in Colorado wants to know how to repair a leaking shower.  Tim from Virginia how to fix painted windows that stick. Joyce in Rhode Island needs to know how remove a smoke odor from her apartment. Mark from West Virginia is wondering if he can install a metal roof over asphalt shingles or does he need to remove the old roof first. Amy in Iowa wants to know if she should test for radon before installing a basement floor. Scott from Michigan has a garage door that keeps freezing to the ground. Ellie in Florida wants to know if it’s worth it to keep her water softener. Jim from Ohio has a high water table even though he has a subsurface draining system. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES:  Looking for family-friendly outdoor activities for you and your little ones? Creating a kid-friendly garden is a great way to get the whole family involved in a fun project! We share some ideas to get started. Spring is a great time to evaluate your roof before big storms happen. If it looks like it’s ready for replacement, don’t plan on that big expense just yet. Tom & Leslie share a much less expensive way to extend its life. Are messy pets creating a decorating dilemma? Are you afraid that anything you buy will be ruined by your well-meaning pooch? We’ll have tips to help you get the best of both worlds. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Karen in Pennsylvania has mold behind wallpaper and needs to get rid of it. Mark from Nevada has radiant heat in his house that has been poorly installed. Kristine in Washington has a leaky opening in her chimney. Glen wants to know how to properly put in a dryer duct. Dewey wants to know how to get rid of a sewage leak smell in his basement apartment. Judy wants to know the best way to clean hardwood floors. Gary from Virginia has an odor coming from his bathroom plumbing after he takes a shower.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you ready to add a deck to your backyard for the warmer weather ahead? One simple yet surprisingly simple deck design mistake can lead to a disastrous deck collapse! Find out what’s needed to stay safe and secure. Spring cleaning is not the most popular project but did you there’s now a Top 10 List for the Most Hated Cleaning Jobs? We’ll share the chores most people would like to avoid. If you’re ready to shop for new appliances, did you know there are actually TWO price tags you need to consider? We’ll share what second less obvious price tag is all about. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: James from Delaware has a whistling sound coming from his 4-year-old water heater. Helen in Massachusetts had a plumbing leak in her basement and now wants to know what kind of flooring to use to replace the carpeting. Andres from Tennessee is trying to relocate his air intake and thermostat from a bedroom. Kelly needs to get rid of insects and rodents in her basement. Rich in Illinois is calling about the best way to treat his older cedar siding. Esther from South Dakota wants to buy a new furnace and is wondering if she can use her existing chimney as a way to get the vent pipe up through the roof? Dan has white powder forming on his 3-year-old brick home. Janet in South Carolina needs a suggestion for a rustic wooden look on her kitchen walls. Joel from Arkansas wants to move a beam that has become an eye soar in his home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you'd love to have a backyard pool but are short of backyard space, I have two words for you: Spool Pool! Learn how to combine the benefits of a pool and spa in one very refreshing backyard feature. Breathing allergy-free air inside your home is more important than ever this time of year. We’ll share ways to make sure the air INSIDE your home is as clean as possible to avoid all that allergy misery! Is your driveway worn, chipped or suffer from nasty oil stains? Tom & Leslie walk you through a low-cost driveway makeover to clean up stains and restore the surface in a single weekend for a fresh start this Spring! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Pat from New Hampshire wants to know how to restore foundation cracks along with floor cracks in his garage wall. Todd in Utah needs tips insulating his workspace in the garage with a spray foam insulation. Karen from Pennsylvania has mold behind her wallpaper wants to know what the best way to remove mold. Greg in Arizona needs help to extending a metal roof. Dorothy from Tennessee wants to know how she can repurpose an inground pool. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Refreshing your home with new décor for the season is fun – but sometimes the costs add up! If you’re not sure if your budget is ready to handle the hit, we’ve got 5 hacks to help save lots of money decorating your home sweet home. Backyard fire pits are a popular project for Spring – and build one is a project you can do yourself! We walk you through, step-by-step and block-by-block! Adding a backyard deck is one sure-fire way to increase your home's living space. But is building a deck a DIY project or one you should hire out? We sort out the pros and cons and help you make the best choice. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: John wants to know if Spray Foam insulation is the right choice for his Florida home. Ruth in Delaware wants to know why her electric water heater that doesn’t last even after replacing the elements. Woodpeckers are attacking Bruce’s home in Arizona! We share an amazingly simple hack that will keep woodpeckers away for good! Bobbie in Ohio cut down a tree and wants to know how to install a sidewalk over the roots. Mike has a home with two fireplaces that are not drafting out properly. Freida has a microwave under light that keeps burning out regularly and wants to know the cause. Jim from Illinois has drafty original windows in his 100-year-old home and wants to stop drafts without replacing the windows. Marleen in Montana wants to restore her faded garage doors. Louise from Delaware has a deck on her backdoor that is under attack by carpenter bees. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’ve you made energy saving improvements to your home, those improvements could just help you sell your home even more quickly than the competition. We’ll explain how to capture this added value. Throughout the pandemic, smart home products have become more popular as more people than ever are working from home and using their living spaces in new ways. We'll share the latest innovations. There is nothing worse than stepping foot on a cold icy floor! We share the best ways to add heat to those floors and never feel frozen feet again.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Kyle in Iowa wants to upgrade his base board molding but needs a better tool for the job. Sandy from Texas needs remove hot wax off an upholstered chair. David in Arkansas needs more info about geothermal water heater into his electric home. Sandra wants to know if she should have a radon test and what to do if the levels are high? George from Pennsylvania wants to know if he should replace the compressor of his water heater or the whole unit? Rose Marie in New Jersey wants to know the best lightbulb for a garage door.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Adding a beautiful new granite top is a great way to add a little luxury to your kitchen, but granite or stone tops are expensive! We’ll share a less costly alternative that looks just as good. If you love the look of real hardwood but don’t have the budget to manage it, Engineered Hardwood may be a perfect solution. We’ll explain the options. When you take on a painting project, latex paint is the way to go most of the time – but not always. We explain when oil-based paint is the best choice and why - even though the clean-up is a little harder. Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions: Debra from Tennessee asks if using dry lock in the basement is the best way to stop leaks. Murray in Illinois needs advice replacing his natural gas water heater.  Stacey from Minnesota wants to know if she can use mortar and limewash to fill in the gaps on her brick fireplace. Phillip in Rhode Island wants to know how to get red cedar shingles to age darker. Marty is asking why she isn’t getting hot water fast enough to her bathroom. Jan in South Dakota wants to know how to level a concrete floor. Vincent from Texas wants to know how to fix a collapsing chain link fence in an area that floods easily. Debbie in Delaware is looking for the best way to repair a popcorn ceiling that is not adhering properly. Jacob from Arizona needs help repairing a crack on the garage ceiling. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Planning on selling your home this spring while the market is still hot? Some home features are pretty much guaranteed to turn-off buyers. We’ll share what to avoid or to change before the first potential buyer shows up. Did you know that your appliances may be quietly draining electricity - all day, every day - even when they are turned off? We’ll share solutions to save all that wasted money. Plus, can’t wait for all those spring flowers to bloom? We help, with tips on how to get a color-filled garden going immediately, no matter where you live Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Jeff in Iowa needs help improving his water pressure after installing a low flow shower head. Kelly from South Dakota needs help removing wallpaper that is removing some of the drywall behind her. Wayne in Iowa has an odor in his bathroom and wants to know how to get rid of it. Melanie from California wants to know if untreated pine wood will hold up in the bathroom. Aaron in South Dakota wants to seal off a second fireplace chimney in his home. Lynn from North Carolina wants to know if reducing the moisture in her partially finished basement is a DIY project. Geddie in Arkansas wants to know how to prevent mice from getting into his home and how to deal with them humanely. Josh wants to know what the cause of a bathroom water stain might be.  Patrice likes the look of LED lights but not the cords that come with them, is there a way for her to hide them. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: With Spring just ahead, is your deck ready? Sun, rain and even insects can damage your deck’s surface, but a good finish can help keep Mother Nature from ruining your deck surface. Tom & Leslie walk you through the project. These days, we spend more time than ever in home offices. We’ll share a couple simple and affordable updates to make your home office space comfortable and productive. It’s almost tax time again – while we’re not tax experts we DO have a pretty good handle on which improvements are tax deductible and will share suggestions. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Karen in Nebraska has bathroom tile that is has grout falling out of it. Dave from Arizona has a kitchen sink that was installed into his countertop that is starting to fall into the countertop. Nicole needs a solution for returning her grout to its bright white color. Brian from Iowa has a crack in his bedroom wall that’s keeps coming back and needs a permanent solution. Ruth in Michigan wants to know if she can put shutters over her vinyl siding and if so how to do it. Tom from Missouri has a garage that was pulled away from his house and wants to know restore it to the way it was. Trish in New Jersey wants to know if it’s worth it to move a load bearing wall. Donna from Tennessee has an odor in her guest home that won’t go away and needs a solution. Steve in Arizona has a gas firepit that is lacking in heat, what can he do to make the fire a little stronger. Dot from Wisconsin wants to know how to put a trench into and drain her driveway. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Spring is the season of big rainstorms. We’ll have tips on how to make sure your roof is ready for the deluge! Prevent sneezing by replacing air condition filters before allergy season kicks in! Before allergy season kicks in, it’s a good idea to replace the air filter in your heating and cooling system. We’ll share a nifty little device that costs about a dollar and reminds you exactly when that needs to happen. When it comes to floors, it’s easier than ever to be eco-friendly. We’ll share options for beautiful, durable and earth-friendly floors. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Gerry in Massachusetts has a bang that randomly occurring in her house’s plumbing. Mike from Louisiana noticed a crack on his floor the needs to be repaired. Theresa in South Carolina has a basement that floods after a heavy rain. David from Arkansas wants some more information about geothermal water heaters. Carol in Mississippi has a kitchen floor that is sinking into her crawl space and needs to figure out why and how to solve it. Cody from Texas wants to know if it’s worth it to buy an insulated door or put in foam sheets between his garage door. Margaret in Virginia has a rusty cast iron tub and wants to know what she would have to do to restore it. Jim from Pennsylvania wants to know the advantages of metal roof over typical shingle roofs. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’d like to step up the look of your home’s exterior, a good lighting design can help. We’ll share tips on what you need to know to get that project done. Spaces under decks can be dark, dirty wastelands. But if your deck is a 2nd story, there are lots of ways to add an underdeck ceiling that drains rainwater passing through and really cleans up the look below. If you live in an old house, finding out when your house was built, who lived there, and what changes happened over the years can be a fun and fascinating journey. We’ll share tips on how you can do just that. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Dreema from West Virginia has a crack in her load-bearing center wall that is spreading to other rooms and wants to know if she should call a contractor or an engineer for advice on how to fix it. Robert in North Carolina is having a dryer that is not drying even after two or three loads. Betty from Texas needs a permanent solution to cracks in her door frame. Joe in Illinois is having condensation on his central air system and needs to know how to prevent this. Cindy from Delaware has dual sinks that occasional give off a strong sewage smell. Bud in Oregon needs to how to replace a lighting fixture. Pauline from New Jersey needs to clean a mineral deposit from a granite countertop. Mike in Pennsylvania has a steel tub that is rusting out and wants to know if he should refinish it or just rip it out. Tammy from Missouri gets a buzzing from her breaker every time she turns on her new furnace. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: The Spring real estate market is heating up with buyers eager to upgrade to a new home. But the features they’re looking for have changed – a lot! We’ll share what today’s home buyers are hot on. Is your family growing? BEFORE you hear the pitter patter of little feet – It’s smart to make sure home sweet home is safe as can be. We share the 9 best ways to baby-proof your money pit. If you’re thinking about taking on a tile project, choosing the right look is only a part of the project. We’ll have tips on how to choose the best TYPE of tile for your project. Plus, answer your home improvement questions: Marla in Louisiana wants to know how to convert her porch into enclosed living space. Perry wants to know the proper way to put a metal roof on his house. Christina from Montana wants to know the most cost-effective solution for bringing natural light into a bathroom. Michael in North Carolina is a new homeowner who wants to know if cracks in his foundation are a big problem. Tara from Pennsylvania need a solution to get rid of with earwigs and crickets. Barry spilled caustic drain cleaners on his tub and wants to know if he needs to replace the tub now. Tammy in Tennessee wants to know they best fasteners to use when installing new gutters so they don’t fall off. Joe from Kentucky has spots on her porcelain tub and wants to know how to fix and cover them up.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are ready to update your windows? You may find that it is one pretty confusing experience! We’ll share a simple trick that makes it easy to compare windows and pick the best ones for your home. A garbage disposer is one of those products that - once you own it - you’ll never want to be without it again! We’ll share a few key features that can make all the difference. A dryer exhaust duct has to be properly installed to avoid lint build up that can lead to a fire. But sometimes this is easier said than done! We have some tricks of the trade that can help and share an ingenious tool to help keep your ducts clean. Plus, we share answers to lots of home improvement questions like:. Marilyn needs a soundproofing solution for a condominium. Mike from Arkansas wants to know if house is considered newly remodeled or not? Cindy in California wants to know how to make her stovetop more fire safe. Jim from Arkansas wants advice on remove a chimney that’s no longer needed. Laurel in Pennsylvania needs a solution to smelly sink drains. James from Illinois wants to know how to convert his two-prong outlets to three-prong outlets. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: One of the biggest security holes in any home is the garage door. Find out how to make sure your garage door is set up to keep your home safe from intruders, and safe for kid going in and out too! Your house is your biggest investment. But how much should you set aside for home repair and maintenance? Learn a simple formula to help you know what to budget. Stainless steel appliances can be beautiful but costly. We share a DIY trick to get that same stainless steel look for less. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Kelly in South Dakota is having trouble getting an oil stain off cement floor. Mike from Iowa has a problem with how his bathroom vents into his attic. Jane in Pennsylvania needs help finding covers for base board heating Dave from Ohio has uninsulated drywall seams that pop and crack in the winter. Robin in Oregon is having a lot of moisture and mold build up in her bathroom. Nicole from Illinois has a crack caused by earthquake damage. Don in Pennsylvania has a question about LED lighting in his kitchen. Maria from Delaware wants to know how to paint over paneling. Anthony in Tennessee needs a DIY solution for putting a bunk bed in his RV. J.W. From Georgia wants to put a wood burning stove into his coal burning stove. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’d love to add more light to your kitchen, we share a new window trend that aims to do just that, in a very unusual way. Have you ever been surprised by a big electric bill? Find out the most common places energy is wasted. If your bathtub has a worn-out finish, replacing the tub could require a major renovation of your entire bath. We highlight far less costly options to consider. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Rich from West Virginia wants to know if he can spackle over the tape on his drywall. Britt in California needs tips on installing a skylight. Mark from South Carolina wants to know how to determine if he has hard water in his house. Cecily in Iowa needs to know how to paint over water stains on wallpaper. Hugh from North Carolina has a beach house that he wants to soundproof. Anne wants to know who to call to install a tin ceiling. Michael in North Carolina has a noisy water heater. Debby from Texas needs to know the best prep for painting a carpeted cement floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’re thinking about updating your kitchen but are concerned about the costs, we’re going to have tips on easy updates you can do over a weekend that can totally transform your space without the hassles. And it’s an age-old dilemma when your appliances break down: Fix ‘em, or replace them altogether? Our cheat sheet can help you save money and make the right choice.  Plus, are you ready for a new washing machine? We’ll have tips to help you figure out which features are worth paying for and which you should skip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Mayer from New Jersey has sticky Anderson windows that won’t open fully. Gail in Canada has a furnace that is dumping water into her crawl space soil. Scott from Georgia wants to know if he can install an attic ventilator even though he already has a ridge vent. Lisa in Michigan wants to know if her exhaust fan is for the whole house or just her bathroom. John from North Carolina is asking what the best spray foam insulation for his home is. June in Alaska has cracks in her bathroom ceramic tile and needs a solution. Bill in Texas has a problem with rusty grout in his tile shower. Jackie from Florida has a problem with her whirlpool dishwasher not working and have mold build up. Mike in Arkansas wants to know if he can combine the bath vent and the exhaust vent.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Ready for new kitchen cabinets? We’ll tell you how to choose new cabinets that’ll step up the space and not blow the budget. If you’ve ever stepped into a shower hoping for a strong flow - only to find a less than inspiring trickle, you know poor water pressure can be frustrating. But the power of a good shower may not be out of reach. We’ll share how to restore the flow We could all use a little more sunshine this time of year…spotless windows can help! We’ve got tips on how to clean your windows like a pro, and you won’t even need any paper towels. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Jan in California wants to know if she can put texture over backer paper. Bill from Tennessee needs advice for cleaning a pressure treated deck that is starting to turn black. Beth in Minnesota has a partially clogged toilet that she can’t fix. Darwin from Texas wants to know how to remove a rotted facia board without taking apart his gutter. Kathy in Delaware wants to know what is the best gutter option. Ed from Delaware has moisture in his basement that is producing an odor he can’t get rid of. Jerry in Massachusetts has a bang coming through her house and can’t seem to identify the source. Dave from West Virginia has questions about what type of water heater is best for him. Laura in Connecticut has a washing machine that is moving around too much. Brad from Pennsylvania wants to know if he should remove the insolation in a knee wall.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are your feet feeling freezing tile floors in the morning? Tired of having icy toes no matter how many layers of socks you have on? There is an easy and reliable solution that can restore feeling to those frozen feet. If you’ve got an older home, you probably have an older chimney and those can be unsafe. We’ll walk you through the best options for improvement. Here’s an idea we can get behind: better toilet seats. From comfier to cleaner, there are plenty of affordable upgrades out there for your throne.    Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Mary in Massachusetts has a dishwasher that keeps backing up. Ian from North Carolina wants a cheap solution for soundproofing. Lulu in Delaware needs help installing a drip edge on her roof. Pete in Wisconsin is having an issue with his garage door opening unevenly. Paul from Texas wants to know if he can run two water heaters in series. Charlotte needs to know the best way to fix leaky windows. Lori in Pennsylvania wants to know the best option for a countertop. Jeffery from Wisconsin that will repair cracks with a caulk that will blend in. Dan in Washington is want to convert a garage into a Bed and Breakfast and wants to know what kind of city ordinances he should be aware of.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If your bathroom is short on space we share easy ways for a small bathroom a makeover that makes every inch count.  February is the best month to buy a mattress but figuring out the best deal for a comfortable place to lay your head is super confusing. We share what to look for - for a good night’s rest. Using window coverings strategically can help you stay warmer, or even cooler in the summer. We share smart ways to use your window coverings to spruce up your space without the need to be replaced. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Caesar in Chicago is looking for a DIY solution insulating around his washer and dryer. Rosalie wants some advice on installing an elevator in her home. Tom from Texas needs help choosing between a tankless and tank-in water heater. Ken in Wisconsin having a problem with ice-damning. Sharaine from Colorado wants to know the best way to deal with mold and mildew. Jacob in Kentucky needs a solution for water coming out too hot throughout his home. Zelda from North Carolina is wondering what’s a good option bathroom floor that isn’t laminate or tile. Deb in Illinois wants to know the pros and cons to a modular home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Have you been feeling drafts all winter long and wondering if replacing old or drafty windows is a wise move? 7 key questions can help determine if this project is right for you. If you need to hang something heavy on a wall, it’s always best to connect into wood studs. But if you can’t find one, new fasteners may allow you to connect directly to the drywall. We share how to choose the right anchor for the job. One item that is probably floating around your junk draw right now is causing homes to go up in flames. We’ll share an important safety tip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Gayla from California is trying to repair scratches in her Corian countertop. Randy in Arkansas wants to know if he can use a large vacuum to quickly remove old insulation in his home. Margie from Maryland needs to get rid of a smoke smell in her house. Dave wants to know how to remove a carpet without damaging the floor underneath. Tim from Minnesota is looking for a dimmer for LED lights. Laura in Connecticut is asking for the best primer to use on rust stains. Dave wants to put a cast iron insert into his fireplace and wants to know if it’s safe and DIY. Michelle from Pennsylvania wants a more efficient heating system in her home. John how to fix a toilet not flushing properly. Terry in Ohio says after replacing his hot water heater the a water has a rotten egg smell. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’ve been thinking about a remodeling project and wondering what to do with your ceiling, a drop ceiling is probably not on your list! But these ceilings are not just the boring flat large tiles we’ve grown up with. We’ll share some amazing transformations that are possible with the newest innovations in these ceilings. You probably don’t think much about your home’s electrical panel until a circuit trips – and then you have to! Tripped circuits may be a sign your panel is ready for an upgrade, or just point to the need for a much less expensive repair. We’ll explain how to keep the power on for less. Hundreds of unsafe products get recalled each year. But with so many recalls, how do you know if you have recalled products in your own home? We’ll tell you about a free product recall website that can help. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Larry needs advice what to do about a bad contractor who did what sounds like pretty lousy work on his new home. Jan in Kansas wants to know how to fix cracks in her sheetrock walls that run from her dining room to her kitchen. Howard from Texas has a collapsing retaining wall that needs an immediate repair. Karen in Nebraska wants to know how to set up a timer for her front lights. James from Minnesota wants to know how to tell the age of a water heater. William in Texas has a crack in his double paned window and wants to know the best way to fix it. Mary from Missouri wants to know if she can install central air conditioning using existing duct work. David in Maryland need tips to clean mold from her driveway and stop it from coming back. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: The laundry room might seem safe enough, but anywhere there’s extreme heat and lots of water, there’s potential for trouble. We’ll walk you through the most common laundry room trouble spots and tell you how to prevent leaks, fires and breakdowns. If you are ready to shop for new appliances, there are two price tags you need to consider. The first is the price you pay and the second is the cost to operate that appliance. We’ll share tips on how the easy way to determine both and avoid surprise expenses. Winter weather can take a toll your home’s siding. We share simple siding repairs to restore missing, loose pieces plus how to get rid a season of dirt and grime for a fresh start come Spring. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Alvin has a home with serious structural settlement and wants to know if repair is a DIY project, and how to should be done. Darlene in Arizona is wants to know how to repair loose vinyl floor tiles in a laundry room. Greg from Tennessee want to know if you can put a metal roof on top of a shingle roof. Christine in Arkansas is asking if she can paint over some unfortunately colored tile in her bathroom. Mike in Vermont wants to know the best heated flooring he can install. Cumi from Wisconsin needs to remove black mold in her rental. Judy in Arkansas has a laminate floor that is bubbling up and doesn’t want to replace it, how can she repair it. Terry from Washington has an ice dam and is wondering how he can alleviate it. Kathy from Arkansas is curious about if Radon is a concern on a slab floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Adding a basement bathroom can make the space more useable and but below grade bathrooms need special designs in order to drain. We’ll share what you need to know to make sure your bathroom will “go with the flow”. When you ask for a 2x4 at the local lumber yard, did you now that the wood they give you actually measures a lot less? These days it’s not always easy to get what you pay for – and that includes buying lumber. We share why and how make sure your money goes as far as it can when buying materials. Wondering how much it costs to maintain a house? We share a simple formula to lay out what you should you budget for the cost of home repair and maintenance. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Nadine in Iowa has an unusually noisy countertop. Tyler from Indiana wants to know if he should do a full basement remodel to sell his house. Don in Illinois has a slippery sidewalk and wants to know if he can put a sealer on the sidewalk to give it more traction. Sandra from North Carolina wants to know if high quality air filters are worth the expense. Randy in Arkansas wants to replace the tub and install a handicap shower kit. Jessica from Missouri has a floor that has settled in the middle and needs tips on how to repair it. Barry is looking for the best air filter for his HVAC. Jane Ellen in Pennsylvania wants to know if double-pane or triple-pane windows are most efficient for her part of the country. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you are planning to make the switch from carpet to one of the many beautiful solid surface floors, getting the old carpet torn out can be a hassle. Worse, it can reveal problems that need to be fixed before the new floor can be installed. We’ll share how prep for your new floor like a pro. When it comes to maintaining your home, painting is a project that’s among the most basic of DIY projects. But it’s also a project that can go terribly wrong if you don’t take just three steps before your start. Learn how to avoid the most common painting mistakes. Ever had a bath or shower drain get clogged due to long hair getting stuck in it? we’ll share a $5 solution that’s so handy, you’ll want to start using it on all your sinks and showers. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Jennifer in Maryland needs a solution how to fill in a gap in siding. Kenny from Mississippi wants to know the best insulation for a tin roof. Penny in Illinois wants to know how to stop frost coming in through where her gas meter connects into her home. Trent’s wants to know how to remove a popcorn ceiling that is falling apart. Peter in Florida lost power in his bathroom and wants to know what’s causing his circuit to trip. Joyce from Alabama has a bathroom sink odor and needs a solution. Margie in Delaware found some stained wood under her carpet and wants to know how to repair them. James from Texas has a sudden issue with a water odor after getting a new water heater. Bela in Delaware wants to put architectural shingles on his aluminum roof to reduce the drainage noise. Jeff from Missouri failed to put a sealer on his patio and wants to know how he can retroactively fix this. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Natural stone countertops are beautiful but also require a ton of maintenance to keep them looking as good. We sort out whether these attractive kitchen surfaces are worth the hassle, along with some equally attractive but easier to care for alternatives. If getting rid of old wallpaper stands between you and your dream room, we can help! Learn the right steps to remove wallpaper quickly and easily. If you’re a pet-lover and taking on new decor or remodeling projects, we’ve share tips for the best pet friendly floor and walls surfaces. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Dave from California needs a recommendation for the best solar batteries for his new home. Dana in Georgia wants to know if mold in her home is an issue and how she can remove it. Jeff from Massachusetts wants to know the best insulation for a basement.  Sylvia in Pennsylvania is curious if he can heat his terrazzo floor. Sparky from Georgia is replacing coaxial cable and is looking for the best possible way to do it. Anne in North Dakota has a hair line crack that has been growing over time and needs to find out if its active or not, and how best to fix it. Dennis from Michigan wants to know how to get hot water to his bathroom more quickly. Kathleen in Texas needs to know how well epoxy garage flooring works. Sue from Ohio is looking for products to keep ice and snow off her wheelchair ramp without damaging it. George in Colorado wants to if it’s necessary to clear the snow off his roof? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Winter is rough on roofs so now is a good time to plan for any roof work that might be needed to be done come spring. We’ll share tips for a DIY roof check to know if a roof needs to be repaired or replaced - in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Got closets busting at the seams? We’ve got steps for a simple closet makeover that takes less than an hour or two to get done and will help you find the space you need.  If you’d like to make your home more energy efficient, a home energy audit is a great place to start. We’ll share how details to get this done, and highlight a DIY option, just ahead. Say goodbye to the dark days of winter with the best lighting for your home. We share the bulbs and fixtures that deliver the brightest outlook for the days ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Risa from Oregon needs a good gutter guard recommendation. John in Missouri is building a guest home and wants to know if it’s better to start from scratch or if he should use a prefab. Kathy from Massachusetts has chimney that is turning to dust and wants to know what she can do about it. Jim in Ohio wants to know his options for insulating his basement as well as noise-proof it. Fran from Tennessee needs a replacement for her French door. Chad in Iowa wants to prevent moisture in his bay windows. Cindy from Michigan wants to know her options for generating her own power to cut down on her bills. Sparky in Georgia has a water ring problem in one of his bathrooms that keeps coming back. Laura from South Carolina is installing anti-slip deck paint and is concerned about damaging the deck. Jack in Nebraska is putting a new floor into his basement and wants to know if he can put down engineered wood flooring. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Want to tackle a home improvement project but don’t have much time? Tom & Leslie share 5 fast hacks that take 30 minute or LESS to complete. Plus share a full list of 30 more home improvements you can do in under 30 minutes! Home fire risk goes up in the winter, but did you know that not all smoke detectors work with every type of fire? We’ll explain how to choose the best smoke detectors to make sure you’re protected. If you’re a renter, we share tips to help you save money heating your apartment that’ll make you a lot more comfortable and won’t require any major changes to your place, or risk losing your security deposit! Radon is a soil gas that is present under homes and can put your health at risk. We share how to know if radon levels are high in your area and what to do if they are.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Andrea in Pennsylvania has a sloping floor in her bathroom and doesn’t know how to fix it. David from Ohio is having a hard time keeping paint from peeling off his siding. Renee in Texas wants advice on repairing structural cracks in her townhouse. Linda from Rhode Island needs a good paint for her stone basement wall. Gary from Georgia wants to know how to harvest rainwater. Tony in Iowa has a cold water line that feels hot to touch. Patty from Illinois has a toilet that’s driving up her water bill and wants to how she can resolve this.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Thinking adding solar power to your home can reduce electricity costs? Not all panels deliver the same amount of electricity. Tom & Leslie explain which options deliver the most power and best savings. And if you like homes that feel bigger than they are, there’s a new trend in what’s known as a broken or semi-open floor plan beginning to catch on. Well top-line those details. With half of the winter behind us, it’s time to think about making sure your outdoor trees will bloom this spring. We’ve got tips on keeping trees alive through winter. Plus, answers to these home improvement questions: Pat in South Dakota wants to know more about vinyl flooring she’s looking to install on her first floor. Phillip from Massachusetts is replacing his cape cod roof and wants to know his options and if he should put in an ice guard. Carolyn down in Florida needs advice on repainting her metal garage door. Eric in Michigan is asking if gutters are needed if your home is on a concrete slab? Debs from Pennsylvania wants to know how to clean the ring around the drain of a sink. Mike in Arizona wants to know the best options are for replacing his old cedar siding. Lynn from Illinois how to replace a mailbox that is rusted and stuck in her brick. Rebecca in Tennessee wants to know how to repair a crack in her limestone chimney. Susan from Texas wants to know what kind of treatment should be done on a water well. Lydia in Maryland wants to know what is the best type of insulation she should put in her house. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Improving your insulation is the easiest and least expensive way to get comfortable and save money. To help, Tom & Leslie review the most popular types of insulation – including a new “itch-free” fiberglass insulation plus another that’s fire resistant to over 2000 degrees! A serious commercial stove can boost both your cooking powers, and your home's resale value. We’ll share what you need to know if you’re looking for one of these brawny commercial beauties in your kitchen. And are you laying your head down on a bed of bacteria every night? We have tips to help de-tox your mattress to keep IT clean and YOU, healthy. Plus how to spot and get rid of bedbugs. Plus, answers to these home improvement questions: Joan in California is ready for a kitchen remodel and doesn’t know where to start! Kirk from North Dakota is ready to convert incandescent bulbs to LED’s and needs to know how lumens compares to light bulb wattage. Jody in Delaware needs help fixing a foundation with dry lock that is peeling off. Robert in North Dakota wants to know what the best way to heat a big space. Carol from Ohio has a cutting project and needs to know what’s the best blade to cut a door with. Louis in Pennsylvania needs tips to choose the best replacement water heater. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Do you enjoy watching birds visit your yard in warmer weather, but miss them in the winter? Tom & Leslie share tips to help attract visits from your fine feathered friends all year long: even in the cold months! Need a workshop, maker space, sewing center or other studio space? We share tricks for carving out room for your past time using hidden space you may not even know you have! Cold floors can be very uncomfortable and raise your heating costs. We identify the top causes of cold floors and the easiest ways to warm those surfaces, and your feet! Got a smelly sink? We solve that one too with a hack that can help. Plus, here’s one for the rule-breakers out there. Leslie shares design rules that are worth breaking with amazing results. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: We help Kayla in Iowa who has a dehumidifier that keeps tripping her circuit breaker.  Tom gives Manny from Rhode Island some money-saving advice about service contracts offered for water lines. Ellen in New York is working on a new floor and wants to know if she has to remove vinyl tile to install a new engineered hardwood floor. Jonathan from Tennessee wants to now the best way to insulate and heat his garage so he can use it as a work space all year long. Ever fix a crack in a wall or ceiling only to have it reappear over and over again? Linda has and gets a one-and-done solution from our expert hosts! Martin in Wisconsin wants to know if it’s possible to remove a load bearing wall to create more open space in her home. Devron from Missouri learns why the best way to make her home more energy efficient is to start with an energy audit. Tom & Leslie share several options to get it done. Steve in Illinois needs a gut check on an estimate for new windows. Tom and Leslie review the project and offer a checklist to use that’ll make sure he gets the best quality windows and the best price. Danuza from Georgia loves her fireplace so much she wants to know if she can open the back side to make double sided. Justin in Montana has smelly bath water he can’t find the source of. Expert host Tom Kraeutler, points to the problem instantly – and it’s not the bathroom at all that’s causing it! Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Icicles may be attractive, but they’re an early warning of some potentially serious roof leaks. Learn how to stop the leaks caused by ice dams and even get your homeowners insurance company to pay for a new roof! Painting is the easiest and least expensive way to completely change the look of a room. But many DIYers struggle when it comes to picking the best color for their project! We’ll share simple tips to help chose the perfect paint colors Did your furniture pick up a little extra wear and tear over the holidays? We’ve got hacks to fix water rings, dings and dents. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Joel from Michigan wants to know choose the best stud finder? Nancy in Arkansas needs help to fill a gap in hardwood floor and her front door threshold. Ken has wants to know what’s best way to repair water damaged sheetrock and wants to know if it’s a DIY project. Karen in Tennessee wants to know how to keep her house warm during the night using her thermal pane windows. Tony from Montana needs repairing a crumbling foundation. Kathryn in Colorado is having a mice problem in her unfinished downstairs and wants to know if the ultrasonic plugins work. Ben from Illinois how to prevent lime discharge pipe on his water heater. Nancy in Massachusetts has a garage door that isn’t closing properly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Buying a house in 2022? We’ve got 4 key questions you might want to ask the home seller before you move in. Kitchen floors can take a real beating, especially over the holidays. If your floors are ready for a refresh, we’ll share tips on the best kitchen flooring for this hardworking space. Undecking the halls is never fun, but you might be making it tougher than it has to be. Get hacks for taking down and storing holiday decorations quickly and easily. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Kathy in Indiana noticed that snow melts on her roof quicker in some areas more than others.  She wonders if her heat pump is the cause? Its not, but she’s close! We explain why. Cheryl in Texas has plywood countertops and wants an affordable temporary option to replace it. Jim from Louisiana is concerned a loose brick wall in his garage and wants to know how to determine if it’s a structural problem. Laurie in Texas needs help matching the sheen of paint originally used on her cabinets. Ken from Michigan wants to know how to clean his water softener. Kris in Pennsylvania needs advice on fixing a small copper pipe leak leading to her radiator. Stuart from Rhode Island wants to know the best way to fix deteriorating concrete on the steps of his home. Barbara in Texas needs to repair a brick and mortar patio for her home and wants to know how to match the old mortar color with the new, and if this is a DIY project. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: A wood stove is a fantastic way to stay warm in winter. But not all wood delivers the same heat. Learn how to supercharge your wood stove for max heat and which fuels can actually be unsafe to burn or can damage your stove. Natural stone countertops are a popular choice for kitchen renos - but they need a lot more care than most people know. We’ll reveal what type of stone countertop is hardest to maintain and reveal an alternative that delivers the same beauty with almost none of the daily maintenance. Hundreds of children are injured every year from furniture, TV’s or appliances that that tip over, especially when kids climb them. We share how to anchor large furniture to the wall and avoid a preventable problem. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Sue from Ohio needs help cleaning a carpet that has some mold on it. Jim in Delaware wants to know his options for replacing his shower stall. Melina in Texas is asking if she should be worried if new electrical wiring is too close to her wood stove. Julian from Illinois is noticing that his brick chimney is crumbling and wants to know how he can be proactive about it. Sandra in South Dakota is concerned about slippery floors and wants to know what type of floor tile is best for a bathroom. John from Missouri has a cracked garage floor and wants to know if “mud jacking” can help stop it from further deterioration. Jean in Iowa has water dripping in her furnace from condensation and wants to know how to stop it. Todd from Illinois is needs to know what type of repair product would be best to seal cracks in a driveway. Julie in Missouri needs a fix to prevent plumbing pipes from freezing inside her walls. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you need new furniture for the New Year but fear it may not be in the budget - Upcycling may be a great solution for a fresh look at a fraction of the cost. Tom & Leslie have tips to help you get started. If you are a renter, did you know that your possessions are usually NOT covered by your landlord’s insurance? We’ll tell you the one thing you can do to make sure your covered in the event of a flood, fire or other disaster. Doors that stick are an annoying problem that doesn’t really have to be. We’ll tell you how to make it go away once and for all. If you take on New Year’s Resolutions each year only to see them fizzle quickly, we show you how your house help you save money, eat better and get in shape! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Laurie wants to know where to get a remote for her Chamberlain garage door. Mike in Iowa wants to know if he can additional insulation to his garage Cheryl from Texas wants to modernize her bathroom and replace her bathtub with a shower. Bob in Massachusetts wants to know if it’s cheaper to run natural gas instead of oil. Mary from Alabama needs help removing caulk from her floor. Greg in Virginia needs to know the best solution for hard water. Catherine from Wisconsin has an I-beam in her condo and wants to know how she can soundproof it.  James in Oregon needs a solution to the wear and tear of his pocket doors. Clara from Kansas has concerns about her cleaning dryer venting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Have you made energy saving improvements to your home that upped its “green” factor? Those improvements may help you sell your home more quickly than the competition. Tom & Leslie share improvements with the best ROI along with tips on how to present these when it comes time to sell. When the weather outside turns frightful, a fire might be delightful – but not if it drives up your heating costs! We have tips on simple steps to make your fireplace energy-efficient. You are probably inside more often than not this time of year… so how healthy is the air you’re breathing? Maybe not as healthy as you think! Find out how to cut down on dust, allergens and even germs with a whole house air cleaner. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Brian from Kentucky wants to know the pros and cons of various types of stucco.  Gail in Georgia wants to know how to clean stains from her driveway that are caused by acorns. Pete from Ohio needs to know more about how a how tankless water heaters work. Donna in Texas wants to know if it’s time for her to replace her 25-year-old windows. John from Arkansas is calling to know if he needs to hire a chimney cleaning service annually or can he get away with skipping a couple years? Cynthia in South Dakota wants to know how the walls in her old home are constructed and if she’d do damage by removing them. Kurt from North Carolina needs to reinforce his floor and wants to know how to sister a floor joist. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: It’s not easy to keep track of every little thing in your home that requires attention upkeep. Well now, there’s an app for that! It’s been created by Consumer Reports and helps manage your home like a pro.  Vinegar works well as for salads and cooking, but did you know there are many ways to use it to keep your home clean? We’ll share 5 ways to use vinegar to keep your appliances, your bathroom and even your tools clean and working well. The holidays leave little time for things to go wrong…but what happens when they do? We’ll have simple solutions to solve the most common holiday home improvement hassles just ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Marlene in California is having a rotten egg smell from her master bathroom shower. William from Delaware has mice problem he needs to get rid of. Denise in Ohio is constantly battling condensation in her double pain windows and wants to know if there is a solution. Olin wants to some advice about installing wainscoting in his living room. Lane from Arizona wants to know if he can do a concrete countertop by himself. Renea in North Carolina needs to know how to weatherproofing her apartment windows and sliding glass door. Clair from Maine is having a problem with his water softener not working correctly Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Getting ready to refresh your home with some new décor for the year ahead? We’ll share 5 ways to save lots of money decorating your home sweet home for 2022! We know your kids are counting the minutes, but is your chimney ready for Santa – and for the colder temperatures right behind him? We’ve got advice for chimney repair and cleaning tips that keep your home safe and structurally sound. Lots of cleaning going in this month with all the holiday visits happening – one of the harder surfaces to get clean are tile floors. We’ve got some quick cleaning tips to help you get tile bright and clean tile floors in no time at all. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Laurie in Nevada wants to know how to repair a cement sink. Lawrence from Wisconsin needs help fixing a rotting porch post. Kathy in Florida is asking about a product to seal a door. Ames from Colorado has horizontal cracks in his masonry stucco siding. Nora in Texas needs help painting a textured wall. Peter from Florida needs a fix for covering up dents in a doorframe. Barb in Iowa is asking if they should switch from radiant system to an alternative. Orv from South Dakota has a stain that darker than he thought it would be and wants to undo it. Pam in Montana has a gurgling kitchen sink. Terry from Tennessee needs to fix his retaining wall in order to keep mud from leaking out from behind it. Shawnee in North Carolina is having a flooding issue in her backyard due to an underground spring. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: With the holidays almost here, many parents are already dreading the moment when neatly wrapped presents become incoming piles of toys. We share easy organizing tips to help. You can’t see it or smell it but according to the EPA, hundreds of people die accidentally each year from CO poisoning caused by heating systems -- We’ll have a way to keep you safe. Your basement may serve as your home’s storage area, an extra play space for the kids or even your laundry room … but basements are also a major source of wasted energy usage. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Mike in Iowa wants to know if he can lay foil face on top of existing insulation. Marlene from Iowa has a moisture issue on her windows every morning after she replaced her siding. Frank needs help fixing a foundation beam that has cracked diagonally. Ann in Georgia is needs help dealing with excessive dust in her house. Carol wants to paint her stained bathroom cabinets and wants to know how to remove the current stain from the cabinets. Tom from Texas had an oil leak on his driveway and wants to know how to get the stain out. Joan in Illinois wants to know what causes dry rot and how to identify if you have it.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you’d like to improve the energy efficiency of your home but wondered whether the improvements would pay off, the EPA now has a program that can prove the savings before the projects even started.  Bathtubs can last a lifetime, but their finishes won’t! If your bathtub finish is worn, you don’t have to get rid of the whole tub. We share much less expensive solutions. As you do your gift shopping – have you noticed how many retailers offer the opportunity to purchase an “extended” warranty? These seem to be available on everything from a toaster to a television, but do they ever make sense? Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Robert in Alaska has water penetrating his foundation and wants to know how to stop this. Terri from Missouri is having a crack issue that won’t go away on her wall leading up to her vaulted ceiling and needs a permanent fix. John in New Jersey wants to know if he should flush his water heater annually. Leslie needs advice on cutting down a door. Brent in Texas has a question about using a ridge venting alongside gable vents. Ron from Tennessee has an issue dealing with moisture in his crawlspace and wants to know if an encapsulated system can help solve this. Vicki in Louisiana has an issue keeping the same water pressure with different temperatures. Nancy from Pennsylvania wants a more modern looking option instead of baseboard heating in her all-electric house. Andrew in North Carolina has a problem with his water drain in his shower making a gurgling noise when it drains. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Winter weather can be especially hard on your home’s plumbing system – especially if your pipes freeze and break. We’ll share simple tips to stop this from happening this holiday season. Now that we’ve sailed past Thanksgiving, Christmas is right around the corner so if you’re thinking about decking those halls – you might be wondering whether you should go with a fresh or fake tree this year. Coming up – we’ll talk pros and cons of each, including some tips on how to choose the freshest fresh tree available. If you have an older house with beautiful – but drafty – windows, then adding a storm window may be a smart move, especially because today’s storm windows have gone high-tech with coatings that make them even more efficient – details ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Dena in Iowa has floor to ceiling brown paneling and wants to know how she can cover it up. Luke from North Carolina has floors that are buckling and wants to know how to fix it. Christy in Delaware has a back porch that has chipped away around her storm door. Rudy from Tennessee had a leaky roof that was fixed but still may have moisture in the drywall after having it replaced. Marilyn in South Dakota wants to know how to preserve kitchen cabinets from her old home and put them in her new home. John from New York wants to know how to slope soil away when there is an overwhelming grade from the property going into the house to deal with overflowing. Anna needs help with a sticky doors after having her doors repainted. Brian in Washington is having a problem with bleeding galvanized nails and wants to know how to fix it. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: As heating bills are starting to rise, we share are several low cost to no cost things you can do to keep them under control while also staying comfortable.  Ready for a quick kitchen refresh? Kitchen backsplashes keep the walls behind your counters clean and updating them can be a fun and affordable project to do yourself.  Hanging holiday lights only to find that half a string is out? Get fast, free and easy holiday light fixes to restore the festive spirit! Is your bathroom floor looking like it need a do-over? We share several new types of bathroom floors that you can install yourself over a weekend.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: David from Texas wants to know how to freshen up his concrete patio. Mindy needs advice on what product to use when fixing joints on her concrete porch. Mike in Arizona has worn out siding and wants to know if he should replace it or re-stain it. Natasha from Missouri has dents appearing in her corner molding and wants to know how to repair it. Roger in Arkansas wants to know if he can repair a faucet with parts from the store or does he have to buy it from the manufacturer? Traci from Ohio wants to know how she can keep the wind from blowing into her house during the winter months. Joyce in Illinois wants to know what type of flooring can hold up to her home daycare and still looks nice. Sharon from Tennessee has some questions about tankless water heaters.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Breathing fresh clean air inside your home is more important than ever but you don’t have to throw open windows to let in freezing air to get it. We share tips on the best air filters for a steady supply of fresh indoor air. With all the holiday meals happening now, have you noticed that when you run your dishwasher, are dishes coming out dirtier than when they went in? We’ll share tips for keeping your dishwasher working properly – and end once and for all the often-debated family question: Do you need to pre-rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher? One appliance that you may own, and you’ll never want to be without again, is your garbage disposer. But during the holidays, disposers get jammed more than any other time in the year. We’ll tell you about a super easy way to get it back in action. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Russell in Rhode Island is looking to replace the knobs on his kitchen cabinets and drawers. Diana from Arkansas has a broken beam in her house causing her kitchen to be unlevel. Glen in California wants to know if a propane stove can work in a natural gas home. Sam in South Carolina has a postformed countertop that’s getting in her way of putting a backsplash in her kitchen. Michael has an AC coil that isn’t draining properly and causing a leak. Marlise from Georgia has windows that have slipped out of their frame. Scott in Texas has mold around in windows when it starts to get cold and wants to know how to deal with it. Sarah from Iowa needs help getting rid of glued down carpet off of a wood subfloor. James in Ohio wants to know if it easier to install an electric furnace or an outdoor unit in his older home.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Painting is a project most homeowners are happy to tackle themselves. But it’s also a project that can go terribly wrong if you don’t take just three steps before you start. We’ll share pro tips for painting success. Looking for a simple way to cut heating and cooling costs? A smart programmable thermostat can cut both heating and cooling costs by 10%. Learn how to heat up your home on a budget. If you are thinking of updating your bedroom with a new mattress or furniture, we’ll have tips to make sure your purchase results in a better night’s sleep. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Maria from Hawaii has a shower that is leaking into her subflooring.  Dennis in Nebraska wants to know the best treatment option for his 2-story wood deck. Kathy is asking, “Is it okay to paint a refrigerator?” Dave in Pennsylvania is putting a vinyl floor in his below grade basement and wants to know if he must put down a vapor barrier and should it be glued down or a floating floor? Cathy from California wants to know how easy it is to paint brick. Mike in Georgia wants to know how to refinish a stained and dirty floor. Michelle from Ohio is wondering how far a raised flower bed should be from the house to make sure she doesn’t get any flooding. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen renos peak after the holidays when the frustrations worn out kitchen layouts peak. If you’re planning a kitchen redo for 22, we’ll tell you how to choose new cabinets that’ll step up the space and not blow the budget. Are you ready to pick up a new snowblower before the first major snowstorm hits? Consumer Reports has you covered. Home and appliances reporter Paul Hope joins us with their picks of the best snowblowers on the market. Are messy pets creating a decorating dilemma? Afraid that anything you buy will be ruined by your well-meaning pooch? We’ll have tips to help you get the best of both worlds. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Tom from New Jersey asks, “what is the renovation definition for Return on Investment (ROI)?” Cindy in Florida wants to know if needs to strip her old epoxy paint before applying a new epoxy coating to her floor.. James from Nebraska is concerned about reports of fumes coming off spray foam insulation. Loretta is building a beach house with a crawlspace and looking for a moisture resistant flooring alternative to natural hardwood. Dennis in South Carolina wants to know what kind of mortar to use on an old stone home. Brenda in Michigan would like to know what type of wall board to use to avoid mold in her basement. Jim from Illinois has an old cedar deck and wants to know if he should power wash the deck? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are your kids’ rooms ready for a design refresh? We’ve got tips to help you design a room that can grow as fast as they do. Home repairs often come as a surprise for most owners, but did you know that many are predictable if you know when your home was built. We share hacks to help you determine your homes age, and the most common repairs to expect!  And as we move toward winter, are you looking to get everybody up & active on those not-so-sunny days. Adding a game room may be the answer you’re searching for! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Michelle wants to know what kind of flooring to use in her young son’s bathroom. Randy from Missouri is asking if removing his gable vents is from the attic is smart when adding new ridge vents? We give Eden in Arizona the best way to stop her garbage disposal backing up into her other sink. Ken from Illinois has a three-way light switch that isn’t working. Rosalind and Gary in Delaware want to know how to seal a marble table. Larry has some 30-year-old wallpaper that is starting to peal and needs a solution. Janet in South Carolina wants to extend her roof to cover a patio and needs to know the best way to attach the new roof to the old one. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Have you ever been surprised by a big electric bill? We’ll share the most common places energy is wasted. If you’re shopping for a home, buying an older home can be a good deal – but only if you’re ready for the restoration and repair that come along with the job. We’ll share tips for buying and repairing older homes. Do your faucets sound like they are crying out in pain? Faucets that sound like screams, squeal or whistle can get pretty annoying. We’ll share has silence noisy faucets for good.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Marilyn is wants to know whether it’s better to rent or buy for her military family. John from Missouri needs to fix plaster walls after having a leak behind the wall. Deane needs some tips on steel windows built into her wall and whether she should repair or replace them. Robert wants to know what to do when the insulation in his attic has settled. Wendy from West Virginia wants to know what the difference between a commercial and residential building in terms of codes. Stan in Massachusetts is needs advice on how to proceed with a ceiling leak caused by defective pipes in his plumbing. Kathy from Michigan wants to know why her cinderblock house causes paint to peel very easily.  Gina has wants to know if she should install a high efficiency HVAC. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If we had to name a project that can really change the look of a kitchen, or even a bath, replacing the countertop would be high on the list! But while removing and replacing a countertop is a costly and complicated project, simply restoring the surface with a stone coating is not. We show you how to do it in a weekend! There’s nothing like a good, steamy shower – BUT too much moisture can cause paint to peel, and mold to grow. We’ll share a solution to keep that moisture in check. Consumer Reports runs thousands of products through thousands of tests every year to find the ones that provide the best performance and value. But they also point out many to avoid. We’ll share appliances that earned the not-so-prestigious do-NOT-buy recommendation. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Brian from Delaware and wants to know more about the best water softening systems to get rid of hardwater. Marta in Iowa has concrete steps that are separating from her driveway and needs a solution. Doug in Texas has a 30-year-old home and wants to know the best way to add insulation to his attic. Susan from Pennsylvania wants to know how to scare off a woodpecker eating away her home. Anthony is calling in with an odor coming from his stove top. Alberta from Arkansas wants to make it easier to open up her vinyl drop down windows. David from Oklahoma is asking how to clean his HVAC vents without spreading dust throughout the house. Jeff in Delaware is having a sulfur odor coming from his well even after having a filter installed. Joyce from Missouri needs help refreshing the grout on her ceramic tile. Josh in California needs help replacing 45-year-old copper piping with Pex. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Fall weather may be refreshing but the cooler temperatures can also usher pests like stink bugs into the warmer spaces of your home. Get tips to keep these smelly invaders out. Weather-related power outages are becoming more frequent but choosing the right type of backup generator to power your home can be difficult. Consumer Reports Home & Appliances Reporter Paul Hope joins us with tips and the results of their latest testing. Are you faced with beautiful, old but drafty windows? New storm windows can help and now they’ve gone high tech with coatings that can keep the heat in. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Scott in Missouri needs to research building codes for fixups at some recently inherited rental properties. Corrinna in Arizona is wondering why she’s having electrical problems with multiple kitchen appliances failing at the same time. Eddie from Delaware needs help solving has a moisture problem in his bathroom’s ceiling. Debra from Pennsylvania wants to know if she should repaint with a primer after the basement had flooded. James in Oregon wants to know if he can lubricate pocket doors. Chris from Alaska wants to know how to build a hot tub into a deck. Marie in Florida wants to know if there is an easy to use window cleaning product. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Thinking about updating your kitchen in time for holiday meals but concerned about the timing and costs? Get tips on easy updates you can do over a weekend that can totally transform your space without the hassles. If you love the personality of older homes, some of that personality can come out in the way of a noisy plumbing system! We’ll share the source and the solution to all that banging and clanging. Chilly weather may leave your home looking dark and dreary, but not if you spruce up your front porch for the color of the seasons. Get tips on adding rich colors with accessories and simple hardware switch-outs you can do yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Joe in Rhode Island wants to know wants to know if he needs to add attic ventilation in a home with spray foam insulation. Julianne from Massachusetts wants to know how to fill in a crack between a garage and driveway. Richard in Washington is looking for tips on how to replace his broken composite siding. Sandra from Arkansas has a problem with a blocked vent pipe in her plumbing. Mike in Delaware is asking what the best way to remove and reuse hardwood flooring. Courtney from Pennsylvania wants to know the best way to add air conditioning to a cape cod house. Craig in Tennessee wants to know the best type of fireplace: vented or ventless? Carol from Minnesota is tired of carpeting and wants our recommendation for a kid friendly flooring for stairs. Thomas in New York wants to know if he has to treat his composite decking. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: DIY is on the rise but according to a new survey, 40% of homeowners report their projects were more difficult than expected and 80% admit to making a mistake along the way. We’ll dig into the most common ways DIY goes wrong to make sure that doesn’t happen to you. With the chilly weather upon us – now is a great time to take on projects to improve your warmth and comfort as temperatures drop – starting with a little hot water heater maintenance to help make sure you never run out! If you’re missing the days of spending warm evenings outside on your deck or patio, there’s no need to stop. You can use your outdoor spaces for a bit longer if you know how to easily add heat to outdoor spaces. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Sandi in Texas would like to know how to add a textured surface to paint. Mike in Ohio needs some suggestions of what some emergency sources of heating if your furnace goes out. Jean from Tennessee wants to know how to paint stucco siding. George in Texas needs help fixing some half-inch cracks in his driveway. John is wants to know what kind of sealant to use on his cement fireplace cap Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Are winter winds streaming through your windows? We share a step-by-step checklist to help make sure you are not wasting a single energy dollar! Painting a room is a fun and inexpensive home improvement project that can make a big impact. But while most people spend a lot of time picking the perfect color for their rooms, choosing the perfect paint sheen is just as important! We’ll share tips on how the best sheen to make your project shine. Is doing a DIY project with your spouse a sure-fire way to add stress to your home life? We’ll share the results of a new survey that reveals how relationships survived when doing-it-yourself, means doing it together. If your driveway looks like a sea of cracking and shifting waves, we’ll share some DIY tips to help fix it up for the long winter ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Katherine wants to know what she can do patch up unused electrical outlets without the help of an electrician. Andrew in Arkansas wants to add a garage or a car port into his basement and is concerned about disturbing a wall. Allison in Illinois is asking, “How to manage water between her house and her neighbors?”. Dante from Rhode Island wants to know what to do if he is struggling to match a paint color in his room. Linda in Ohio asks, “Is it possible to get a generator in an apartment?”. Lee from Arkansas is wondering when the best time to put her house on the market. Dana in Massachusetts is asking a problem with paint peeling, even after applying primer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: There’s no shortage of ways to make your home energy efficient – but what if there was a way to build a home that was already efficient? Tom and Leslie explain the very successful “Energy Star Homes” program plus answer your home improvement questions. They call it “fall” for a reason… and if raking leaves is the last thing you want to do with your weekend, we’ve got tips, techniques and tools that make leaf collection much easier. Halloween is right around the corner! Find out how to make sure your sidewalks, walkways and driveway are safe for your littlest Halloween Trick or Treaters.  And with the holiday baking season ahead, there’s no worse time to have your oven break down. We share how to troubleshoot your oven, before stomachs start grumbling. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Susan from Texas’ curb is starting to crack and needs a solution. Jack in Michigan has a strange noise coming from his pipes after using the washer and sump pump. Tony from Montana wants advice on how to hook up a generator to his home. Linda in Alabama is asking what to use to stain her concrete porch. Holly from Ohio has cracks in her basement and changes color after heavy rains. Jim from Arizona wants to know if it’s possible to insulate a sink? Christine in Alaska wants to know how to insulate the floor above her unheated crawlspace. Georgia from Pennsylvania has a problem with humidity in her stone house. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In a strong home sellers-market, selling your home “as-is” is a popular way to avoid buyer demands for repairs. But that strategy often backfires and hurts your chances of getting the best price for your home. We share a better strategy to get the best price with the least hassles. Whether your furniture is heirloom or Ikea, it’s likely to take a few hits from time to time - especially if you have kids! But while the water rings, dings, dents and furniture scratches are inevitable – they are also easy to fix! Do you need to hire a contractor, but afraid you’ll get a bad apple? You can weed out the unqualified or reliable GCs by asking the right questions – we share an easy-to-follow checklist that walks you through. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Casey from Oklahoma wants to know how to properly seal a pressure treated deck. Nancy in Pennsylvania is wondering, how do you identify asbestos in her ceiling tiles? Ed in Iowa wants to know if he has an insulation problem with his cathedral ceiling. Janiese from Kansas wants to know if she needs to seal epoxy grout. John from Connecticut is asking what the best flooring is to put on top of concrete? Wendy in Georgia needs better weather stripping for her metal door. Dave in Alaska is having trouble with a floor in a multi-family home. Leah from Kansas has concrete porch that keeps cracking to do earthquakes and wants to know which product to use to fill the cracks. Mike from North Dakota wants to know if he needs to put in drywall and insulation in his detached garage. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: A survey of 32,000 homes by Zillow showed painting with the right colors can help your home sell faster and make you more money in any real estate market. We’ll share the paint colors that really pay off. Garage floors need to be one of the most durable floor surfaces in any house. They have to take the punishment of hot tires in the summer or dripping road salt in the winter, plus a ton of storage needs. We’ll share a finish that’s tough, durable and slip-resistant AND DIY!  As the weather turns chilly, it might be time to light your fireplace for the first time this season. We’ll have the how-to you need to know to make sure your chimney, damper, and firebox are all safe. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Sam from Tennessee has a water pressure problem with his bathtub. Laura is having an erosion problem with her sloped yard and wants to know what the best way to stop it is. Dave from Washington wants to know if insulation tape he is using is fire safe? Diane in South Dakota is having a problem with an uneven subfloor. Louise is having salt deposit stains on her mailbox and wants to know the cause and how to clean it. Darrin in Iowa is getting a frost on his basement wall and wants to know the cause. Dorothy from New Jersey wants to know how to deal with Centipedes and Crickets in her basement. Floyd from Iowa whether or not to put a plastic vapor barrier in a crawl space and if he should close his basement vents. Janiese in Kansas is asking if she needs to seal an epoxy grout? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: If you enjoyed garden-fresh veggies all Spring and Summer, now is the time to plant cool weather crops that thrive in autumn’s cooler weather. Learn what grows best straight through to the first frost. Adding shrubbery to the front of your house adds curb appeal and the cooler Fall weather offers plenty of time for the roots to grow deep before next summer’s heat sets in. Get step-by-step tips to get this project done. Whether you live in a climate that’s warm or cold, insulation is the key to keeping your home comfortable. But most homes simply don’t have enough. We’ll share a new product that’ll allow you to get the insulation job done fast and safe – and without any special tools. If you’re planning to add a new fence, learn the easiest way to set posts without mixing any concrete. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Tommy from Nebraska wants to know what the best dryer vent hose is. Mike in North Carolina needs to fix a crack on his garage wall and a void under the apron of the driveway. Deb from Missouri wants to know the best way to install new molding on a plaster wall. Carl in South Carolina put a tile floor in his laundry room and now having a hard time keeping the door open. Linda from Michigan wants do an extension to a barn and wants to know how to find an architect for it. Sylvia in Ohio wants to know how to remove a glue down carpeting from plywood without ruining the floor. Nelson from Delaware had asphalt paving put in and wants to know whether to use a water or oil base seal coat? Audrey in South Dakota is inquiring about Bondera Tile Mat Set.  Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Spotted a roof leak and wondering if your roof can be repaired or needs a complete replacement? We’ll tell you how to know. It doesn’t matter if you heat by gas, oil, propane or electric, it’s time to get your heating system serviced. We share key components that have to be checked to make sure the system remains safe and efficient. If there’s a way to do a home improvement project that’s fast, simple, safe, costs less and makes a positive impact, that project would be a no-brainer—right? We share one energy saving project that does just that. As the weather cools down, we share five easy Fall weekend projects to get your home ready for winter. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Pat in Illinois is needs help with a drainage issue due to large gutters and downspouts. Mary from Alaska wants to know if her new HardiBoard siding was correctly installed. Barry in Iowa wants to know how put in a door sill so he can install carpeting. Eunice in Arkansas has a masonry retaining wall with white stains and wants to know the cause and possible solution. John in Minnesota wants to convert his sauna into a shower and wants to know what to replace the walls with. Anna in Hawaii wants to fix a badly painted door that won’t open properly. Arthur in Tennessee is needs help stripping older brick from a building built in the 1890s. Peggy in Louisiana wants to know how to seal between vinyl siding and a concrete foundation. James from Illinois wants to know the best way to build an in-ground firepit.  Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hiring a gutter company to install gutter guards can be ridiculously expensive. But buying the product and then either installing the gutter covers yourself -- or hiring a handyman to do the installation -- can be far less expensive. We walk you through the project. Laminate countertops can give you the look of natural stone without the price – but they’re not quite as durable. But the good news is that laminate tops are actually pretty easy to repair. We’ll share some tricks of the trade to keep your tops -- in tip-top shape Are you ready to give your walls a new look just in time for fall – we’ve got tips on wall coverings that can add interest and color to your décor. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Betsy in Georgia wants to know how to replace popcorn ceiling. Leonard in South Carolina wants to make a structural repair and asking if he needs a flinch plate for the header he is looking to install? Judy in Iowa is trying to make sure she has the right ventilation in her attic and if her vapor barrier was installed properly. Rick in Pennsylvania needs helping getting candle wax off a deck. Ester in South Dakota wants advice on putting small windows on a metal garden shed. Pat from Pennsylvania needs help with a leak in his garage ceiling. Julie in Colorado wants to know how energy efficient is a heat pump in a fully electric house. Joseph is wondering why electric outlets not working in his room despite the fan and lights working. Mary in North Dakota has a crumbling concrete floor after water damage and wants to know how to fix it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Ready to blast away piles of leaves this Fall? Paul Hope, the Home & Appliance Editor from Consumer Reports, dishes on this season’s best leaf blowers including some that won’t wake the neighborhood! As we move closer to Fall, we move closer to Fall storms which can bring on MOLD! But is getting rid of mold a DIY project, or do you always need a pro? The answer is – it depends! We’ll share DIY tips to help clear the air. If you’ve been putting off insulation because it’s always been an itchy and difficult job, we’ll share a new product that is as soft as cotton to handle. When temperatures drop: mice, rats and other rodents make their way into homes for relief from the chill – we have tips on how to keep them away. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Brent from West Virginia wants to know how to fix uneven heat in a split-level house. Sheila in Oklahoma wants to know if it’s possible to paint a countertop. Elizabeth in New Jersey is having a water pressure issue with her outdoor shower. Cody from Texas needs to know the best way to fix a disconnected dryer vent. Margaret from Virginia has a civil war era home and wants to know the best way to safely clean and protect her wood floors. Ryan from Georgia wants to know why his cold water pipes run hot water! Linda in Rhode Island wants to know what the proper procedure is for shutting down her AC system for the winter. Judith in Arkansas is concerned about a crack in her brick wall and wants to know if she can just seal it or if she has to replace the whole wall. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Everyone wants a perfect remodel but home improvement and perfect are two words that you don’t often hear in the same sentence! We share tips on how to avoid the hidden surprises that come with the territory. Home prices are up and that means successful home buyers may not have much money left for unexpected repairs once they close on the house.  Service contracts can help handle a lot of those surprise costs. We explain the options. Terrazzo has been proven as a floor that is both durable and beautiful. But while traditional terrazzo is costly and expensive to install, stone-based terrazzo coating systems are not – and they’re super easy to install. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Susan from Montana wants to know how to fix the pitch on her driveway so it will drain properly. Ron in Florida wants to diagnosis the cause of his water heater overheating and tripping his circuit breaker. Jeanette from Colorado wants to know if radiant flooring is a good option in a cold climate. Richard from Illinois wants to stop his retaining wall from leaking. Pam in Colorado wants to fix a squeaky floor underneath her carpet. Rebecca from Kansas wants to know how to cover her wood paneling with drywall. Tom from New Jersey wants to know if fixing the seal on his double pane window is a DIY project? Donna from Arkansas wants to know how to soundproof a duplex wall. Mac in Missouri wants to know if he should leave his pool cleaning system on all year. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. 88WFtnPbKTQKye3O5g4y Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hate waiting for your shower water to heat up? Hot water recirculation pumps can help, delivering hot water to faucets almost immediately. We’ll tell you how it works and what it takes to install one in your own house. Do dishes come out of your dishwasher dirtier than when they went in? The culprit could be a clogged drain valve that’s easy to fix. We’ll tell you how! Want to be comfortable this winter? Adding insulation is the most cost effective and smartest energy saving improvement. But fiberglass is itchy and hard to work with, right? Now there’s a new generation of fiberglass insulation that is easy to handle and as soft as cotton, making this project far simpler to get done. Plus, if you want to avoid a frozen mess, now’s the time for lawn sprinkler systems to be winterized. We’ll explain what needs to happen to make sure the system is set for the winter. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Randel from West Virginia wants some solutions for his damp and humid basement. Lillian from Florida is having a worm problem and wants to know if it is a concern. Dane from Tennessee is asking “Which lightbulb is the most energy efficient?” Marcy from Nebraska has concerns over what projects to do before she should sell her house. Courtney in Pennsylvania asks, “What is the best ducting for her Cape Cod home?” Linda is a renter in Ohio and wants to know what she can do to be more energy efficient in a rental apartment. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Are you living with the heating system that was in your house when you bought it? Old furnaces and boilers can be inefficient. We help you figure out if a replacement or conversion to another tup of heat is worth it. If you’ve shopped for a house in what’s been a crazy market, you probably spent more than you wanted to. That leaves little for hidden home repairs that can cost you big bucks. We identify the top home buying hazards to watch out for. 90% of homes in America are wasting energy dollars due to a lack of adequate insulation. We’ll share where all that lost energy is going and how to cut the waste and increase comfort. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Keri from Nebraska wants to know whether to go upstairs or downstairs with her new bathroom. Kevin from Ohio needs help dealing with ants taking over his property. Rochelle from Nebraska need to replace her facia board and replace gutters Ed from Arkansas is asking if it’s safe to use coal in a regular fireplace. Kumar from Delaware is having a crack issue in his new concrete foundation and wants to know how to fix it. Sherry from Georgia is trying refresh and re-stain an old wooden dresser. Joe from Delaware wants to know more about metal roofing. Natalie from Wisconsin wants to know if she can repair her vinyl windows or if she has to look for new ones. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: For renters, heat is a big expense you might feel you can’t change. We’ll share tips to save money heating your apartment that won’t require any major changes and make you a lot more comfortable. Do have a deck with cracked or splintery boards that needs a refresh? We share tips on the easiest way to repair deck boards and re-stain the deck for the season ahead. Is your driveway worn, chipped or suffering from nasty oil stains? We’ve got a sure-fire solution to clean up driveway stains for good and restore the surface. We’ve all watched the horrible fires that have consumed the west. As more homes are built in wildfire-prone areas, consumers are selecting building materials differently, including insulation. We highlight the new trend and the more fire-resistant products that should be considered. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Joe from NY is having an excessive dust problem and wants to know if it is caused by his heating system. Angela from Georgia wanted to know if it’s possible to paint over a vinyl floor in his kitchen. Richard from California wants to know if he can repair water damaged drywall. Linda from Rhode Island is having a hard time adding a flagpole to her home. Brian needs help dealing with yellow jackets being attached to cat food he puts out. Sam from Indiana has cedar fencing he is about to plant and wants to know if he should stain the fence to prevent rot. Laura from South Dakota needs help with a leaky basement caused by heavy rain. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Just about time to wrap up gardening for the year. But if you had a greenhouse, you can extend your gardening well into the Fall! Plus, you can start back up even earlier next spring. We’ll share the best DIY Greenhouse Kits to hook you up with a 4-season crop of veggies. When you flick on the bathroom light first thing in the morning, do you scare yourself? That frightening reflection may not actually be all you – just bad bathroom lighting. We’ll share tips to help you improve your natural glow. Is painting a fireplace ever a good idea? We walk you through the pros and cons. Before winter arrives, it’s time to make sure your outdoor concrete surfaces are protected from cracks, worn-out surfaces and stains. We’ll share an easy way to do just that. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Russ from Iowa needs to replace a casement window and wants to know if he can put double windows instead. Valerie from Arizona wants to know if she can fix a cracked ceramic tile without replacing the entire floor. Ricky from Nebraska is trying to figure out what is attacking his lilac and crabapple tree. We offer him and effective, safe pesticide solution. Lynn from Delaware wants to know how to stop a water leak coming in where two water pipes are joined in her basement. We share a simple DIY fix using epoxy rated for plastic. Lori from Tennessee wants to know how to fix a concrete floor crack. David wants to know if he should insulate his garage after he puts AC in his garage for the first time. Ellie from Wisconsin needs to know where to start with installing wall shelving in her new home’s bathroom. Steve is wanting to rip out some shag carpeting and replace it with engineered planks into his RV Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Buying new replacement windows can be confusing. But if you learn how to read a single label that’s required for every new window, finding the best window becomes instantly simplified. We walk you through what to look for. Leftover paint can feel like a headache when every other aspect of a project is done. But with a little imagination and creative flair, we share ideas to use paint that is left over to give your home extra appeal…and have lots of fun in the process. A firewood pile can become a termite buffet if the firewood mixes with moisture or is stacked too close to the structures on your property.  We’ll share tips for the best way to store firewood so it's ready to deliver the most heat when you need it. Fall is the perfect season to take on key home improvements and do home maintenance that can help avoid serious issues that can happen in colder weather. We share a pre-winter checklist to help. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Sue from Rhode Island is looking for solution to get a paint stain off of her deck. Isaac in Washington wants to know if radon is a problem for his home that’s built as a slab on grade. Hope from Illinois wants to build a fence but is concerned about the moisture in her yard. Abraham in New Jersey wants to know if he can save on air conditioning if he ventilates his attic. Judith in Arkansas wants to know the cause of crack in her brick wall and know how to fix it. Charley in is asking if it's time for him to move from two water heaters to a single tankless one. Ken has a tree that is growing next to his foundation he is concerned about. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: As we head into Fall, it’s a good time to assess your home’s insulation needs. Most homes simply don’t have enough and that results in higher than necessary heating bills as well as a very uncomfortable space. We’ll share a new insulation product that’ll allow you to get the insulation job done fast and safe. Fall is also the time of year when beautiful foliage assembles into a rotted rooftop mess when gutters get clogged! We’ll explain how a clogged gutter can lead to everything from washed out landscaping to a seriously damaged foundation. Plus, we look at the most popular gutter guards and talk about what works and gutter guards to avoid. Termites typically show up in Spring but one homeowner learned the hard way that’s not always the case. Find out what happened when thousands of termite wings were discovered near a basement window and how to get rid of termites. Construction adhesive can be a handy product for heavy duty projects like gluing a mirror to a wall or house numbers to brick, and many similar situations. But while it’s super strong it is also super messy. Now there’s a new double-sided construction adhesive tape can hold 300 lbs with no mess. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Rebecca from Kansas wants to know how to get a drywall look on top of wood paneling. Chet from Michigan is curious if you can put a radiant barrier as insulation. Mindy from Kentucky is asking if she can get rid of linoleum flooring. Ron is having a mouse problem in his walls. Cheryl is calling about dealing with a deck being built over a concrete patio that is broken up by a tree root. Roxanne from Ontario wants to fix a leak on her roof of her upper duplex. David from South Dakota wants to know if he must caulk in between the J-channel and window frame. Rose Marie in New Jersey is having a hard time with her garage door lightbulb going out and wants to know how to fix it. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: College parents beware, we are about to enter “silly season” when real estate agents press young, inexperienced students to sign leases that are chock full of ridiculous requirements, and stiff fines and fees that anyone renting outside of a college town would find ludicrous. We’ll tell you what to look for to prepare your young renters from these predatory practices. As the end of summer approaches, it'll soon be time to bring the green inside with houseplants. But if you feel like you never had a green thumb, fear not! We can help get you on the path to redemption and forgiveness with our list of the top 5 healthiest and hardest to kill houseplants. Are cracks, holes, and nail pops taking away from your otherwise well-maintained walls? We share DIY Tips to fix them yourself for good. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions including: Caitlin moved into a fabulous old house and would love to resurface a beautiful clawfoot tub. We share her options. Fred in Iowa wants to know how to stop mold odors that are building up in his daughter’s bathroom. Betty wants to know how to stop mold from growing in her closet. We walk her though how to know if she’s really seeing mold or something else. Diane wants to turn her backyard deck into a walk-in closet. We explain why that is a really bad idea! Caulking a bathtub is a job that has to be repeated often – unless you know our tricks of the trade to make it last. We walk Vern though that project. Mary wants to paint her fireplace and needs to know how to get it done right so that the paint doesn’t peel off. Steve wants to know how to fill gaps in his driveway that were cause by expansion joints that have worn away. Mario needs guidance on replacing an old metal window with a glass block replacement style window. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: With fall approaching, and you might be wondering if replacing old or drafty windows is a wise move. We walk you through 7 key questions to ask yourself to determine if this project is right for you. Painting seems like a simple DIY project but that’s exactly why it is even more frustrating than ever when your painting project comes out badly. We’ll share pro painting tips to help. As we head into pandemic season two, many Americans will continue to work from home fueling the need for more home office space. If you are ready to set up a new more organized space for your work life, we’ll share tips on furniture and organizers you can build yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Beverly wants to add vinyl siding to a shed and needs to know the best way to attach it. Tom shares a key trick of the trade to make sure the vinyl is secure but won’t expand and cause the vinyl siding to warp when the sun hits it. Abe needs help solving a plumbing mystery that causes the water in one toilet to gurgle and drain when another toilet is flushed! Anna took down a tree that was full of carpenter ants and wants to know if needs to be worried about the carpenter ants destroying her home! Stuart needs to know how to select the right LED bulb to match the wattage of an old incandescent bulb he’s replacing. Nancy needs to know the easiest way to remove a popcorn celling. Bob is dealing with the aftermath of a really bad laminate floor installation. Brian is building a new house and wants to know if using spray foam insulation will cause his roof shingles to buckle. Laura is remodeling her kitchen in an old house wants to know how to reinforce the floor to support heavy new appliances. Eric’s home is smoke damaged and he needs help getting rid of the smoke odor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Your house is your biggest investment – but how much, exactly, should you set aside for the cost of home maintenance? We share a simple formula to help you determine what that is. Floors need to handle wear and tear and be easy to clean. But when you have pets, that durability raises to a whole new level! We’ll share what you need to know to choose pet friendly floors that can handle that kind of traffic. Painting the exterior of your home is one of the most important types of home maintenance. And while many homeowners choose to hire a painting contractor, new technology in paint sprayers makes this one project you may be able to tackle yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Joe from Iowa isn’t happy with his deck and asks if it should be repaired or replaced with composite decking? We walk him through the pros and cons. Linda from Florida needs a really tough paint for the floor of an airport hangar! We share options for concrete finish that can take the punishment. Don in Illinois needs help fixing a sinking foundation in his very old farmhouse. Bonnie in Pennsylvania has a sagging driveway to repair and wants to know how to fill in the low spots or if she needs to tear it out and start again. Darren from Virginia want to save water by routing rainwater from a barrel to help fill his toilet. Kay in Arkansas wants to know how to make a plain masonry wall look more appealing. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: (Episode Summary, and Links) Have you ever taken a shower and received a blast of water that was freezing cold or scalding hot? That’s what we call shower shock! Tom explains exactly why this happens and how to stop the shower-shock for good. By now, garages are usually a mess of toys, tools and toxins like lawn chemicals and paints – all of which are too close to each other for comfort. We share garage organization solutions that can help. If you’ve ever tried to repair old, worn-out concrete by covering it with new concrete only to find it didn’t last, we’ll share a solution that will, and delivers a beautiful new finish in just a few hours. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: John in Maryland wants to reno a small bathroom that contains the home’s water heater. He’s looking for a recommendation on the smallest possible water heater that will do the job. Phyllis from New Jersey is buying a home built in the 1960’s and want to know what repairs to expect in an older home. Tom taps his 20-year’s worth of experience as a home inspector to share useful tips about homes built in that era. Charlie in Tennessee wants to expand his kitchen and wants to know how to tell if his wall is a load bearing wall before he rips it out! Michelle in Iowa wants to build a firepit out of brick and needs a recommendation for the best type of mortar to use for her project. Charlene from Louisiana has a low slope roof in bad shape and wants to know if she can replace it with a metal roof. Randy from Maryland wants to stain a brand-new deck build from pressure-treated lumber and wants to know if he should do this right away or wait a year. Margaret wants to know how to get rid of popcorn ceilings. Eve in Delaware wants to get rid of a smoke smell from her studio apartment.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Painting your kitchen cabinets is one of the most popular ways to update a kitchen. But can this DIY project deliver the same level of beauty and durability of a factory applied finish? It can - if we get the painting steps right! Tom & Leslie walk you through what you need to know to get Instagram worthy results!  If a vacation home is out of reach… you might want to consider GLAMPING instead! Glamping is short for “glamor camping” and we’ll share tips on how to do just that by converting a camper or trailer into a comfortable getaway that comes home with you after every vacation. The laundry room might seem safe enough, but anywhere there’s extreme heat and lots of water, there’s potential for trouble. We’ll walk you through the most common laundry room hazards and tell you how to prevent leaks, fires and breakdowns. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. James from Virginia wants to know how difficult it would be to install a ceiling fan in a house with no lighting fixtures. Laura from Connecticut is wondering how to reinforce her sagging kitchen floor. Steve from Pennsylvania wants to build new steps to his porch and needs to know how to figure out how deep to make the treads. Tammy from Pennsylvania wants to know how to fix uneven hot and cold water in her bathroom shower. Marvin from Rhode Island is asking is it cost effective to use blown-in insulation on for an older home? Kathy from Arkansas has some concerns about how to test for radon in a slab home. Ashwani from Illinois is wondering if there is something he can do to deal with tree roots starting to get exposed on his lawn. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Buying new lawn furniture this summer was a challenge due to the disruption of the pandemic. That's why now may be a good time to build your own. We’ll help by walking you through how to build one of the most iconic pieces of outdoor furniture, the Adirondack chair, including a source for detailed step-by-step plans to build your own Adirondack Chair. If you’ve taken on paint projects, you may know that using a primer is the first step to making sure your paint project comes out exactly as planned. But you may not know that there are key differences between the type of primer you select from your project – especially if it includes painting the kitchen or bath. We’ll fill you in on the best primer for trim and cabinet painting to use and why, just ahead.  If you’re planning a painting project like painting a fence, deck, or the outside of your home, you won’t need to hire a pro. New technology in high efficiency airless paint sprayers makes this an easy DIY project. We explain how the sprayers work, and why using one is 3 times faster than using a paint roller. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Sean from Texas is having a problem with his central vacuum system leaking condensation. Norma from Delaware wants to know, how to determine if she has enough water pressure for a multi-head shower in her bathroom. Thomas in Tennessee is asking about how to reduce moisture in a basement. Eva from North Carolina wants to know her options for replacing a water heater located on her third floor and is debating about a tankless one. Vernon from Colorado asks how to re-caulk a bathtub? Thurman from Arkansas wants to learn how to install a window in a load-bearing wall. Lauren from Florida is concerned about lead paint in her house. Doug in Rhode Island wants to know if he can consolidate his kitchen and bathroom exhaust ducts? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Post pandemic, 65 percent of people house hunting demand one feature more than any other. The pandemic has changed a lot about how we buy things and that includes what we look for in a new home! We share the list of new home buyer demands. If you’ve ever taken on a tiling project, you may know that some of the more inconvenient parts of the project are that it’s messy and takes DAYS because you have to wait for the adhesive to set, before you can grout. We’ll show you a trick of the trade to install tile that’s a lot less messy and far faster. If you’re ready for a new floor and have pets, it’s smart to choose the best pet resistant flooring  to stand up to the wear and tear our pets can dish out. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Bill in Florida is trying to get rid of a smoker’s stench throughout his house. Pat in Michigan wants to know how to hide water stains on her ceiling without repainting the whole thing. Lee wants to know how to install a koi pond. Stewart wants to know when in your home’s lifetime should you replace insulation? Michelle in Minnesota wants to know deal with moisture coming up from her laminate floor. Carl in Maryland asks what’s causing his toilet to make a high pitch whistling noise? Pat from Arkansas asks, why doesn’t my heat pump dehumidify? Daniel needs to know why his water has a rotten egg smell. Kathy calls asking how to clean grease off a garage floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Replacing your garage door can be a simple and affordable project that delivers a 94% return on investment when the house is sold. Get tips on the many styles, colors and designs for garage doors and how to choose from and how to a garage door that rights for you. As the saying goes, good fences make great neighbors. But as simple as it seems, adding a fence is something many DIY’rs get wrong. We’ll walk you tips for picking out the best fence so you can get it right, the first time. If you’ve been dealing with expensive cooling bills, stuffy room or a dusty house, the problem may be your duct system. Learn how to check your ducts for leaks and fix them fast. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Tracy in Texas wants to know how to get started with a universally designed bathroom. Tyler asks how to deal with moles that are tearing up his lawn Janet in Georgia is wondering when the best time to stain a wood deck would be. Ian from Vancouver wants to know if there is a tip to nailing hardwood floor when you get close to the wall. Carol in Texas is wondering how to restore her sloped driveway without digging it out completely. Robert in Michigan asks if there is any composite material that can keep from fading. Judy in Florida wants to know how to refurbish her laminate countertop. Ed in Tennessee is trying to refurbish a crawlspace for his pets and wants to know what concerns he should have. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Consumer Reports is out with the Top Toilets for 2021!  We will flush out the details – including the very unusual way they test toilets using plastic balls, screws and sponges to simulate the real thing!  If you’re buying a new home, you’ll have lots of options to choose from. But many of these don’t really have to be done when the house is being built. We’ll tell you which upgrades make sense to buy from the builder, and which you can get done on your own – and often save a lot of expense in the process. Bathtubs can last a lifetime, but their finishes won’t! The good news is you don’t have to get rid of the whole tub just because of a worn finish. We’ll layout DIY and pro-options to restore the finish and brighten up your bathroom space.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Amanda is asking how to stop floor squeaks in her 100-year-old home. James wants to know how to set an above ground pool into his deck? Terri from Pennsylvania is asking why are her gutters always overflow, even though they are clean? Case from Oklahoma wants to know how to prioritize projects in new home as well as why there is a surge in lumber prices? Rosie wants to know her options for a fogged replacement window with a bad seal. Terry from Tennessee wants to know the best preservative to put on raw wood for a porch? Carol from California asks how to insulate the house from underneath her floor. Dale from Wisconsin needs help figuring out what is causing his metal roof to leak and how to fix it. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Do you need more storage space? Who doesn’t! We’ll explain the many nooks and crannies where storage space hides that you may never have thought of! Breathing fresh clean air inside your home is more important today than ever. But during these hot “dog days” of summer, you don’t have to throw open windows and let in hot humid air to get it! We’ll share easy ways to make sure the air INSIDE your home is as clean as possible. Adding a backyard deck is one sure-fire way to increase your home's living space. But if you’re not careful, there’s easy ways to make costly mistakes. We’ll show you what you’ll need to avoid. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions including: Mike is working on an interesting historic restoration and wants to know how to seal shower walls to prevent rusting. Cindy from Ohio wants tips for restoring the color of original cedar siding. Mike in Pennsylvania to figure out how to replace big, decorative columns on his porch with something more modern and appealing. Patrilla from Louisiana wants to know if she can put flooring over linoleum flooring instead of pulling out the old one. John is asking when is the best time to paint in extreme temperatures? Suzanne from Ohio is wondering the best way to deal with a shower curtain rod that keeps coming out of her drywall. Matt from Ohio wants help solving a mold problem in his bathroom.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Every summer, the #1 danger for children is drowning! Tom & Leslie share a pool safety system you can put in place to help makes sure that tragedy never strikes close to home. It’s National Garage Sales Day and that time of year when millions of folks transform their garages and yards into a storefront to get rid of the junk they no longer want! whether you need to clear garage clutter or maybe make a few bucks, or both, we’ll have tips to help your garage sale go smoothly, including how to protect your privacy and how to price your treasures!  If you’ve ever tried to repair cracked, deteriorated concrete like on a sidewalk, driveway or garage floor – you might have found that those repairs have to be made to the same spots over and over again. We’ll share a way to do these once and have them stick. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Justin from VA needs to know the best options for a laundry room floor. Margie in OH needs deep cleaning advice for kitchen cabinets. Judy in Missouri needs help figuring out the source of a roof leak. Courtney in Texas asks how to totally remove the smelly cigarette stink left by a previous homeowner. Taylor In North Dakota wants to know how to seal a leaking duct system that’s driving up her air conditioning costs. Lin in Missouri is needs to know how to stop a pear tree that is breaking through her foundation. Peg from RI wants to redecorate her bathroom but is stuck with an ugly shower insert. We share some designer tricks to work around it. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Want to refresh your home with new décor but aren’t sure if your budget is ready to handle the hit. We’ll share 5 ways to save lots of money decorating your home sweet home. The real estate market is very hot and for first time home buyers, that makes it even tougher to find an affordable house. We’ll share new data on the best and worst markets for first time buyers. Window screens let fresh air into your home, while keeping pesky bugs out! If yours aren’t doing the job, we’ll tell you about new technology options in invisible screening that does just that and a whole lot more. If you’ve ever had to do deal with an uneven concrete walkway that’s causing people to trip, the solution may be easier than you think. We’ll share the best fix. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Sherri from TN needs help with strange dryer problem. Her machine generates moisture when the load is finished. Tim from Michigan has a 2nd floor deck and wants to know how to install fiberglass floor to prevent leaks to the space below. Leah from CA needs a solution for an air conditioner that is constantly leaking Freon Michael from CA wants to know if it’s possible to purchase gutters and leaders from a home center to do the job himself or hire a gutter company to install seamless gutters, which are more expensive.  Jim in PA is having difficulty getting rid of hard water calcium deposits out of his water heater asks what’s the best way to clean out a calcium deposit in his water heater? Butch from AK lives downhill from his neighbors and needs help stopping rainwater runoff from getting into his garage. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: During summer’s hottest months, buying a pool may seem like a pretty good idea. But several pool pitfalls that can lead to a real financial soaking. Tom & Leslie share dos and don’ts. If you’ve ever picked up lumber for a project that measure 2 by anything (like 2x4, 2x8 and so on) did you ever notice that the wood actually measures a lot less? We’ll share what happens to all that missing wood you thought you were paying for. Homeowners insurance is an important way to protect yourself from financial disaster. But you might be surprised to learn the most common things that are NOT covered. We share how to make sure your totally covered. One incredibly common home improvement tool sends hundreds of people to emergency rooms every year. Learn what this is and how to stay safe Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Bill is trying to decide between a concrete patio or wood deck and wants to know how much to budget for the project and which one lasts longer? Lorraine needs help getting rid of ants which are attacking her outdoor space. Beverly wants to know how the best way to clean a fence. Robert is ready to take on building a retaining wall - Options for retaining wall blocks and tips for building a successful one. Jenny wants to know how to know how to install a handicap accessible bath chair in a shower. William needs to know how to remove mold that forming in a vacation cabin. Steve wants to know if adding insulation under vinyl siding actually really helps save energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Learn how to keep your lawn green and healthy through the hottest months of the summer, plus how to handle droughts or water restrictions. Drain clogs can be a real hassle – but they don’t have to be complicated to free up. We’ll share quick solutions to get things flowing. If you love to grow herbs in your garden for cooking, many of the most popular also can be used as herbal medicines. We’ll share a few of the most popular If your gas grill needs a mid-season grill cleaning? The same char broiling grill action that flavors ribs, chicken, steaks and burgers all summer long can really cause problems if you don't stop and do a thorough grill cleaning once in a while. We walk you through the steps. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Jeff is looking for the easiest way to clean out the shower drain. Dixie needs a step-by-step walkthrough of how to handle repair of major cracks in a foundation. Spray foam insulation vs. blown-in. Max wants to know if spray foam insulation is more efficient than blown-in insulation Pam asks if it’s worth fixing insulated glass on a door or should you just replace the whole door? Joe is trying to figure out the cause of some pretty big leaks around his chimney. Kathleen would like to know if she can install faux tin ceiling tiles on a vaulted ceiling. Midas is adding new flooring and want to know how to create the transition between floors in two rooms when one floor is higher than the other. Diane is asking where is the best place to add insulation in a house? Mercedes needs advice on repairing a metal roof. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Most kitchen renos are expensive. But there’s actually a lot you can do yourself over a single weekend that can deliver a big impact without a big budget. We share a checklist of low-cost kitchen remodeling projects that deliver the biggest impact. If your patio is worn, weathered or even cracked, we’ll share how to do a makeover using a new type of paver brick designed for remodeling that any DIY’r can accomplish in just a couple of hours. The hottest part of the summer always brings out the most bugs – including disease-carrying tics! We’ll explain the best ways to stop ticks from taking a bite out of your summer fun. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Tom wants to know to clean and paint a pocket door. Marianne wants to know if her floor tile might possibly contain asbestos. Steve is dealing with a leaky water heater. We share a new technology in water heaters that include a water heater that automatic shut offs if a leak is detected. Elanor wants to know how best to remove algae and clean Trex decking. Gordon needs a solution to stop leaks getting into his garage. Beverly wants to know the best way to repair and repaint rotted wood posts. Mike has spotted some cracked roof shingles and wants to know if it’s time to replace the entire roof. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Spaces under outdoor decks can be dark, dirty wastelands! But with a deck ceiling, you can drain the rain and clean up the look below. We walk you through build-from-scratch and manufactured options to create a dry hangout space below an overhead decks. Finding a foundation crack can be quite disturbing, but not all cracks spell disaster! We’ll share how to sort out the minor from the major, and what to do if you find yourself unsure of what you’ve got. You may think of Ivy as a way to make your home look distinguished – but did you know it can also wreak serious havoc on your siding and cause major carpenter ant problems? We’ll have tips on the best way to get rid of ivy and manage those creepy vines. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: Courtney wants to know how to get rid of tree roots so she can build a new patio. Larry needs to know how to replace his concrete driveway. Lucille is trying to seal a hole to repair a cracked fiberglass tub. John asks if cleaning solar panels improves their efficiency. Peg wants to know how to repair, restore or replace the spacers between patio sections. Marge is looking for the best way to repair a broken kitchen cabinet shelf. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: On a warm summer evening, there’s nothing better than sitting out on the porch… until the mosquitoes arrive! We’ve got tips on retractable screens to keep pesky pests away. Some home décor can practically guarantee you’ll lose money selling a home. We share the top 10 worst décor choices to avoid at all costs! The pandemic drove a surge of home buying from millennials, but it turns out that nearly half blew their renovation budgets within the first year! We dig into why this happened and what the home buying economy looks like going forward. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Best options for affordable kitchen countertops How paint your front door and make it last Replacing a 15-year-old roof that should have lasted longer Right way to assess and repair foundation cracks Best way to repair or replace rotted wood trim behind gutters. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Have you made energy saving improvements that upped your home’s “green” factor? Those improvements can help you sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Tom & Leslie explain why and share tips to create your own green home improvement inventory. Kitchen backsplashes are a great way to keep the walls behind your counters clean – but they can also be a fun and affordable project to do yourself! We walk you through how to create your own kitchen backsplash with tile. And you may know what good case of sun burn can do to your skin, but have you ever thought about what those harsh rays can do to your home? Sunlight can fade furniture and floors, raise energy costs. We’ll tell you about a way you can block out just the damaging rays while still enjoying the sunshine. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Is it better to use stain or paint on an outdoor deck? How do you know if it’s worth the cost to upgrade your homes air conditioning and heating system? What are the benefits of a metal roof and is installing one a DIY project? Best way to tile a shower floor so that it is totally leak-proof How to repair loose concrete on a porch Restoring water pressure in a home with a well pump Repairing cracked ceramic tiles that are on top of a concrete floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Do you feel like your A/C just isn’t doing the job it should? We’ll share a trick of the trade you can use to test your air conditioning, so you’ll know exactly how well it’s performing, or if it’s wasting your cold hard cash. Painting is a project that’s among the most basic of DIY projects, and one most homeowners are happy to tackle themselves. But it’s also a project that can go terribly wrong if you don’t take just three steps before you start. We’ll share important painting tips. Do summertime allergies have you hacking and sneezing on even the sunniest of days? We’ll share five things you can do inside your home to breathe easy all summer long. Does having a solar energy system really improve the value of your home? Solar energy sellers will universally say yes, but we think otherwise and explain why.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: How to deal with high humidity and moisture in your home? What might be the reason why your exterior door isn’t quite sealed? What product to use when resurfacing a concrete driveway? Is it smart to replace an oil-fired water heater with an electric one? How to change your two prong outlets to three prongs? How to apply wood paneling to your wall for a rustic style? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Every summer deck collapses are tragically common. We’ll share the top 5 reasons decks fall down along with tips on how to do a safety check your own deck. If your last electric bill a real shocker you’ll be happy to hear that utility companies are required to offer programs to help you save money and use LESS of their product! We’ll have advice on how to best take advantage of that savings. For family pets, the backyard is a place to relax, burn off some energy, and play with friends, human and furry. We’ll share 4 tips to help improve your outdoor space to keep pets safe in summer and their humans happy. Laundry is always a chore but it’s even worse when your washer and dryer are located a floor below or above the place where those dirty clothes are first dropped! We share how to effectively move your laundry from a floor below and place it right where it needs to go.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Value of adding a whole house fan. How to fix peeling Vinyl flooring? Are perma-boots the best way to fix roof leaks caused by flashing? Who should you call for drain cleaning? How to prevent your septic tank from causing a sinkhole? Can trees have an impact on your foundation and what should you look out for? Why does your fridge keep tripping your circuits? Best way to clean your oven-door glass? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Want to update your kitchen this summer? Updating the layout at the same time can deliver updated functionality and flow. Tom & Leslie share tips for kitchen layouts that bring in some new feng-shui and make the space more functional.  Are you bracing for you next big cooling bill of the summer? We’ll highlight new technology that can keep you cool and cut your costs at the same time. A great looking fence can improve your home’s curb appeal and add to your home’s value. But if the fence hasn’t been well maintained, it can have the opposite effect! We walk you through how to stain a fence and make it last!  If you enjoy watching hummingbirds in summer, the best way to attract them to your yard is to feed them. Leslie shares the do's and don'ts of making your own delicious sugar water homemade hummingbird food! Plus, we share answers to your home improvement questions about: How to brighten up a dirty and stained garage floor. Options for adding slip resistant paint surfaces. How to choose the best low-maintenance replacement window. How to adjust a door that swells and sticks. Is your roof full of green moss or algae? We share a cool trick to clear the algae using just a single strip of copper flashing! Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: A tree in your landscape can be a thing of beauty. But after it’s gone, the stump left behind - not so much. We show you easy ways to get rid of stumps for very little cost. Planning on painting your home this summer. Choosing the right colors can make a huge impact on its appearance and value. We’ll share tips for picking the perfect paint colors for outside projects. If you’re a renter, you might think there’s not much you can do to cut summer cooling bills and stay comfortable. Not true! There are lots of low cost to no cost things you can do to stay comfortable and stop wasting money. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Best way to remove and replace old tile floor grout. How to paint a popcorn ceiling (including what to do if you’ve removed all those clumps of popcorn!) Best way to restore dead or dying spots in a sod lawn. Most efficient way to insulate an old and drafty house. Advice for replacing a leaking sliding door with a French door. Does noisy plumbing signal a big repair a problem? Sneaky ways to find out how old your house really is. How to pick the most durable outdoor furniture. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Want to outsmart would-be burglars with more than just a fake rock. Tom and Leslie share the sneakiest hiding spots to store house keys outside. Wondering what projects were popular during the pandemic? We highlight the most popular YouTube videos about projects people were making with just a bag of concrete. Have summer storms damage your roof? Find out how to get your insurance company to pay for a complete roof replacement. If you love outdoor cooking, we highlight the best outdoor kitchen features to add on a budget to enjoy all season long.  Plus, we answer home improvement questions about. Tips for adding an attic stair access to a garage ceiling. Best way to remove adhesive from a brick surface. Ideas for fixing a drainage problem that’s causing flooding around and under a home. DIY addition? Important steps to take before attempting to build an addition yourself. Paint or aluminum wrap? Best way to finish exterior trim to stop rot and avoid long-term maintenance. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are your kitchen cabinets tired and worn? Tom and Leslie tell you how to choose new cabinets that’ll step up the space and not blow the budget. If you’re thinking about an outdoor project, and love the sound of a babbling brook, we’re going to tell you how to create your very own water feature for your yard Ready to take on an outdoor paint project? We’ll highlight new paint sprayers that makes paint projects quick and easy. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about. Options for adding GFCI’s to bathrooms that don’t have them. How to repair exposed rebar around your pool? Tricks for finding the source of a window leak Tips for humane ways to get rid of squirrels who have made a home in your home! How to reduce condensation in basements How to seal and preserve a brick chimney? Is it less expensive to build or buy wall shelves? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Backyard decks can bring added value to your home but costly mistakes can quickly take that away. Get tips on building the best deck for your yard. Bathrooms renos are one where you need to get the design decisions done right, the first time to stay on schedule and on budget! We’ll walk you through what you need to know. Do you experience tripped circuits a little more often than you’d like?   We’ll share FIVE signs you might need an electric panel upgrade to stay safe and keep the lights on!  Garden gnomes are making their way from punchlines to potted plants. And they’re not the only surprise trend in the latest enchanted yards and gardens! We share a few ideas to get you started. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: ·     What are some good basement flooring options? ·     How and when to use the services of your town’s professional engineers to diagnose a flooding problem under your house. ·     How to fix unwanted odors from your sump pump? ·     How effective are low-e (Low-Emittance) Windows? ·     Can you reglaze ceramic tile? ·     Best way to stain a new deck? ·     How to fix walls in a log home? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mosquitoes can really suck the fun out of your summer activities, that’s why we are sharing some tips on how to get rid of mosquitoes for good. Stone countertops are a great addition to any kitchen, but we’ll give you some important factors to consider before installing them. Tip over accidents are an overlooked danger to your children. We have some preventative tips to make sure your kids aren’t put in danger. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: What to look for in window replacements? How to deal with vandalism to your property?  How do fix bathtub cracks? Why a fresh painted wall might be peeling? When is the best time to seal your tile? What to do know about comfort height toilets? How to kill and prevent bathroom mold? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Summer sun and storms can cause serious damage to your roof. Find out how to spot and stop leaks before they happen. Ever wonder if you’re overpaying a contractor? Tom and Leslie get smart strategies for hiring pros from leading Economist Meisha Fisher of ANGI. A leaking shower can end up being one of the most expensive pluming leaks to repair. Find out how the right shower drain can prevent this from ever happened to you. Are costly cooling bills cutting into your monthly budget? Find out the easy fix for a common mistake that causes bills to get out of control. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: How to paint fiberglass shutters? What’s the best way to restore damaged concrete? How to stop air conditioners that blow breakers? How to refinish original hardwood flooring? How to pick the best water heater for your family? Exterior trim: paint or wrap with aluminum? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Find out how to step up your outdoor living space with step-by-step tips on how to can build your very own fire pit. Has your patio seen better days? We share easy and exciting ways to breathe new life into those crusty concrete patios.  Small spaces can make your home feel cramped, but with the right floor, the space can instantly feel bigger. Find out the best hardwood floor patterns to open up a room. Want to step up the deck around your swimming pool? We share stain that stand up to wet environments. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: What is the best way to replace an asphalt driveway? How to repair contracting siding? How to repair water pressure caused by a shared well? Are wall cracks a serious problem? Easy fix sticky sliding doors How to keep Squirrels from taking over the bird feeder Best way to insulate a garage for a year-round workspace. How to stop basement floor leaks for good. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Security cameras can protect our homes during our vacation but only with the right placement. Tom and Leslie share strategies yo get the best camera coverage of your home.  If you want to start your remodeling project on a level playing field, you first need to start from a level floor. Find out the simplest ways to fix up a floor that is out of whack to get your remodeling project off on the right foot.  One of the most expensive home repairs is repairing a leaky shower stall. This is one problem you will never have to deal with if your shower is built right to begin with. We walk you through the key to a totally leak-proof bath reno.   Are messy pets creating a decorating dilemma? Are you afraid that anything you buy will be ruined by your well-meaning pooch? Leslie has tips to help you get the best of both worlds and stop your pet from taking over your style. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions: How to put in new windows into an existing opening? What to do about electrical arcs? How to approach water in a crawl space? How to deal with black mold? Ways to deal with tree roots. What do to prevent leaky vents? Is it worth using a masonry sealer on your chimney? How to get rid of efflorescence? Should you remove your shingles when putting on a metal roof? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Looking for an easy DIY way to spruce up the backyard? Arbors and Pergolas are a great feature to add to any yard -- AND you can build one yourself! Tom and Leslie give some tips and explain the differences between them. Rotted wood on your windows, doors, columns or any exterior surface can be expensive to replace - but you can save money by restoring the wood instead! We’ll walk you through what products to use as well as how to use them.  Summer time makes saving water more important than ever. But rather than rely on your kids and family to use less water, we will walk you through some great fixtures that can do the water saving for you. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: How to install crown molding? Fixing windows with sash cords? Can you paint vinyl sidings? When should you use a ridge vent? What are your options when replacing a driveway? Is it possible to restore the gloss on a porcelain bathtub? How to get rid of Moles in your yard? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: If you'd love to have a backyard pool but can't afford it, don't have the time to care for it or you’re just short of backyard space? We have two words for you: Spool Pool! Tom and Leslie share tips on how you can combine the benefits of a pool and spa in one very refreshing backyard feature. Pruning trees and shrubs is one of the top outdoor tasks for spring. We share best ways to encourage lush new growth, improve air circulation and clear away dead branches that are a safety hazard. Ceramic tile showers are usually thought of as waterproof. But the truth is that unless the waterproofing UNDER the tile is correctly installed, that show can develop slow leak is that can go on for years and cause thousands of dollars of damage. We’ll review the best way to build a shower, so it never, ever leaks. If your home has concrete floors, you might think that installing full thickness hardwood flooring is just not possible because moisture from the concrete would cause the flooring to warp. We review a new product that gives you the flooring you want and while saving time and money. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions like: How to deal with water heater exhaust?  Tips to trap and release feral cats. Solutions to cracked patios How to deal with discolored water? How to remove water stains on hardwood? How to spot hard-to-find roof leaks? How to patch a cracked porch? What is the best way to stain hardwood flooring? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Summertime is finally here which means more time out on the deck. Tom and Leslie walk you through the step-by-step staining tips for a finish that’ll last you years. Looking to step up your outdoor kitchen? We highlight the latest trends in outdoor cooking, including smokers, wood-fire pizza ovens, cast-iron cookery and outdoor rotisseries to kick up your outdoor cooking and entertaining game. Butterflies are one of the best parts of spring and summer and attracting them means you’ll have an army of pollinators working hard in your garden. We share the top 5 flowers that will encourage butterflies to make your home, their home. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions including: Is it better to reseal your deck or convert to composite? How to prevent moisture from rising in your crawl space? What are the benefits to metal roofs? Tips on how to clean your showers. How to remove stains from your driveway? What is the best way to remove carpet glue? What is the best way to improve attic ventilation? How to refinish a really old deck? Is it necessary to replace the anode rod in a hot water heater?   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Outdoor kitchens are more popular than ever. We’ll share a system you can use to construct it yourself that’s as easy as stacking blocks. If a new floor is in your project plans for this Spring, LL Flooring has developed digital tools for both DIY'rs and Pros. We talk with CEO Charles Tyson to learn how these new tools and services will help make sure the job comes up exactly as planned Stripping paint off a surface can be a difficult and very messy project. We’ll share a new low-odor, environmentally safe paint and varnish remover designed to remove multiple layers in just one application. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions like, how to deal with skylight leaks, address seller disclosure issues, how to get rid of pesky carpenter bees, how to install chimney liners, offer up some cheap kitchen remodels, and how to clean and seal grout.  Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Built-in, backyard firepits are really hot right now. With just a bit of planning you can build a firepit yourself. We tell you how. And with spring rainstorms in full swing, now is a good time to evaluate, repair or replace your gutters. If yours are in bad shape, serious structural problems can result. We’ll tell you what to look for when choosing a gutter company. If you’re painting project a fence, deck or the outside of your home, you won’t need to hire a pro. New technology in High Efficiency Airless (HEA) paint sprayers makes this an easy DIY project. We explain how the sprayers work, and why using one is 3 times faster than even using a paint roller. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about best material to build new ventilated soffits around your house, evaluating and repairing cracks in your foundation, best options for painting concrete floors, fast fix for squeaky floors, best way to run a dryer vent, repairing a leaking foundation, how to eliminate termites and repairing leaking underground pool pipes. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: A pizza garden is a fun way to get the whole family involved in gardening. Kids get a kick out of growing their own food and then being able to eat it. This is also a great way for parents to sneak in some veggies. We’ll walk you through exactly what you’ll need to grow your own pizza – right in your backyard. When you pop out of bed in the morning and head for that first shower of the day, there’s nothing nicer than stepping on a heated, warmed tile floor to “soften the blow” of the start of your day! Well, if you are a DIYr or pro, for as little as $525 bucks you can purchase all the components needed to create a warm tile floor. If you’d like to add hardwood floors to your home, there’s a new style of prefinished hardwood flooring collection out where the boards have been shaped using wire brushing, scraping, and cross-hatching surfacing techniques that gives them a classic seaside look to the floors from the moment they’ve been installed. Move over, tomatoes! Growing fruits and herbs for drinks is a fun new approach to backyard gardens…and spring is the perfect time to get it going Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about stopping leaks in flat roofs, best insulation, leveling sagging floors, dealing with carpenter bees, fix for doors that swell, adding 2nd layers of siding, tearing out a deck and how to stop gurgling toilets. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: The Spring real estate market is well underway and more urban dwellers than ever heading to the suburbs for space and tranquility. If you’re ready to sell your home, we’ll share 4 easy projects you can do in a weekend to boost curb appeal and land a buyer quicker than the competition. If you have ever had a major storm hit your house, you know that a home which is usually safe, sound, secure and dry can quickly turn into a leaking mess. That’s why when the storm passes, it’s important to give it a thorough inspection for storm damage. We walk you through. Rot happens, and when it does the longer you wait to repair it, the faster it gets worse. There’s really no need to put it off because products now exist that can restore the strength to weak rotted wood. We’ll share those details, just ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about replacing 1950’s wiring, fixing oven pilot lights, repairing drywall, cleaning concrete, getting rid of mold, painting tips for floors, painting a brick fireplace and refinishing kitchen cabinets. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode notes... There’s a lot of focus on Spring cleaning this time of year but rather than treat this like one big dusty holiday, we’ve found it easier to set yourself up for success with a 12-month cleaning calendar that breaks cleanup shores into small, very actionable projects. And if you love the look of your wood windows, door and trim, but spotted rot that set in over the long-wet winter, we’ll share an easy way you can restore rotted wood that’s quick, easy and a lot less expensive that replacing it. If your family is like most, you probably use the garage as much as your front door for access and security. But if your door is old and worn, it could not only be unsafe, it could also be providing easy access for intruders when you are away. We’ll have tips to update, just ahead.  Your outdoor party can be ruined in a flash if guests find themselves constantly swatting away swarms of relentless, little gnats flying around your guests’ heads by the thousands. We reveal how to not get bugged by gnats! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, options for filling in an unwanted swimming pool, fixing faucets, quieting down loud heating system noises, fixing peeling paint, best insulation: batt or blown-in, and removing rust stains. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes... Did you know one dandelion plant can make up to 15,000 weed seeds? If you want to win the battle against these green invaders, we share tips on how to tackle stopping weeds for the entire season. If you’ve ever remodeled a bathroom, one of the most difficult areas to get right is the shower. We’ll share a kit that takes all the guess work out of that project for leak proof showers. Apartment living has its advantages but a yard of your own is not typically one of them. But that’s no reason to give up on the idea of your very own garden. We’ll share tips to help you create a bountiful small space garden. If you are tired of having to cut your lawn all season long, artificial turf may be the solution. We walk you through the pros and cons, including installation and costs. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about how to dehumidify a damp basement, finding a kitchen cabinet paint with low VOC’s, best return on investment for a garage renovation, updating super old wiring and best insulation for converting a small building to a workout space. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes... Have you ever noticed that over the winter, garages always seem to get smaller as stuff piles up? That’s why now is a great time to make the garage your first big Spring-cleaning project! We’ll show you how to get it done in 4 steps! Building a backyard deck is one sure-fire way to increase your home’s living space for the warmer months as well as add to your home’s value. But can it be a DIY project, or one that always needs a pro. We walk you through the pros and cons of a DIY deck build just ahead. Have you ever had a wall or ceiling crack that you’ve fixed, once or twice but just seems to crack all over again? We’ll share an easy DIY tip that will let you repair it once and for all just ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about getting rid of washer/dryer vibrations, installing a closet rod, cleaning bathroom mold, repairing basement floor cracks and how to repair plumbing roof flashing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes... If you’ve been working from home and ready to get out of the spare bedroom, basement or carved-out closet you call an office, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know to set up a productive, comfortable outdoor home office OUTSIDE that it’ll keep you close to nature and the comforts of home at the same time. Spring may have sent a lot of rain your way…but if you have a rainwater collection system at your house… you can use those downpours to keep your lawn and garden happily hydrated well into summer’s dry spells. We show you how! If you’re thinking about buying a home this Spring, you might be interested to know that home buyer interests are changing in a very big way. We’ll break it down with tips on how to make sure your home brings the highest value in this new market. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about replacing a shingle roof with a metal roof, how to clean a granite countertop, insulating attic space, best product to paint a dock, eliminating drafty windows, repairing a leaky chimney, rules for updating electrical panels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Earth Day is just about here, and a perfect time to talk about our favorite tricks of the trade for saving water, energy and money at the same time. Painting is a popular spring project and one that can be made a LOT easier if you know just a few painting tricks that pros use every day. We’ll share those trade secrets coming up. Few home improvements bring more beauty and value to a home than adding a hardwood floor. We share tips on advances in hardwood flooring that make this product easier to install. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a porch handrail, stopping water hammer, whether or not you need to remove paneling, converting a deck into a 3 seasons room, water heaters, tankless or conventional? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Nothing signals the start of spring better than those fresh blooms like daffodils and tulips in full color! But if you want to enjoy those beautiful spring blooms, you need to plant bulbs now. We’ll share tips just ahead. With all the rainy, wet Spring weather ahead, repairing rotted wood on your windows, doors or wood columns may be on your to-do list. We’re going to make those projects a lot simpler with tips on how to easily restore damaged wood. Once the weather warms and kids spend more time outside, you may be spending more time INSIDE doing loads and loads of laundry! We’ve got a few tips to help you get your laundry room organized and save money! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about hiring a contractor, eliminating carpenter bees, installing GFI switches, replacing a HVAC system with geothermal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: Last year was one of the biggest ever for home gardening and this Spring many are already getting those plants in the ground. If you’re ready to find your inner green thumb, the best way to may not be to dig down but to build up, by constructing a raised bed! We’ll show you how. You probably know improving the energy efficiency of your home means you’ll spend a lot less money heating and cooling your home. But it’s not always easy to know which improvements that give you the best return in your energy saving investments. A home energy audit can help. We explain how – just ahead. A new survey shows that 1 in 4 Americans purchasing a home are experiencing buyer’s remorse. We’ll share tips to help make sure the next home you purchase doesn’t end in disappointment. Ready to pick up a shovel and get digging in your yard for a garden or landscape project? There’s one really important thing to do FIRST. We’ll share that tip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about removing spray insulation on siding, installing basement flooring, safety when you have a septic field, requirements for safe well water. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: If you think the best way to save time and energy cutting the grass is to set the mower as low as possible so you won’t have to mow that often, you might be surprised to find out that can end up being MORE work in the long run. We’ll share why, just ahead. We all love the look of a freshly painted room, but the getting ready part? Not so much! New paint and primer products promise to save you a big step in the process, but do they really do both? We explain where it works and where it won’t! Who would have thought a year ago that one of the most important considerations for a home office is your zoom background! We’ll share reno tips for home office re-do’s just ahead. Before your pet ventures out to roll around in the grass, we share tips to keep your pets safe and spaces green. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about repairing a rotted door, installing appliances before flooring, installing a mixing valve, best gutter covers for a home, preparing a deck for painting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Buying a single-family home to rent out has always been a popular approach for investors. Now however, investors are buying homes they plan to split into multiple rental units. We’ll share how to know if this makes economic sense for you. If you love the look of terrazzo floors but not the cost, we’ll share a new product that uses real stone to provides a terrazzo finish for concrete surfaces at a fraction of the price. Plus, if your family is like most, you probably use the garage as much as your front door for access and security. But if your garage door is old and worn, it could not only be unsafe, it could also be providing easy access for intruders when you are away. Replacing it is a big job best done by a pro. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Taking shorts, swimsuits and light jackets out of storage is a great way to start your spring – but it can turn into a huge disappointment if you find that they’ve been ravaged by insects or moths. Leslie’s shares a timeless solution you can build yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, tips on removing a popcorn ceiling, upgrading windows in your home, cleaning and eliminating black mold, installing a bathroom in the basement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show notes: Buying a single-family home to rent out has always been a popular approach for investors. Now however, investors are buying homes they plan to split into multiple rental units. We’ll share how to know if this makes economic sense for you. If you love the look of terrazzo floors but not the cost, we’ll share a new product that uses real stone to provides a terrazzo finish for concrete surfaces at a fraction of the price. Plus, if your family is like most, you probably use the garage as much as your front door for access and security. But if your garage door is old and worn, it could not only be unsafe, it could also be providing easy access for intruders when you are away. Replacing it is a big job best done by a pro. We’ll tell you what you need to know. Taking shorts, swimsuits and light jackets out of storage is a great way to start your spring – but it can turn into a huge disappointment if you find that they’ve been ravaged by insects or moths. Leslie’s shares a timeless solution you can build yourself. VURBL Station: https://vurbl.com/station/7J5ymLuI7J1/ Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, tips on removing a popcorn ceiling, upgrading windows in your home, cleaning and eliminating black mold, installing a bathroom in the basement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Over the winter, garages get pretty gross. Between the stuff that never quite gets put away from last fall -- to the dirt that drips off your car – the floors can be a real mess. We’ll highlight the best garage floor solutions that are easy to clean. Given that over the last year we’re all been we’ve all been eating out a lot less, the kitchen has become an even more important "hub" of the home – and that’s impacting the way we refrigerate food. We’ll highlight new trends in these all-important appliances, just ahead. If you are longing for a new look at home but don’t have the funds to go all out, reupholstering the furniture you have can do the trick. For a fraction of the cost of buying new, you can change the entire look of your room. We’ll share what pieces work best and what fabric can create a lasting new look with this DIY project. Spring is a good season for closet cleaning and but if you have a lot of accessories, it can be hard to find places to keep all of that organized. Did you know that you can use kitchen items to organize your bedroom closet? We’ll share those ideas. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, installing baseboard trim, deck stain options, purchasing new central air units, insulating a cathedral roof, best air filters for eliminating odors. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: You can flush away a pile of cash upgrading your bathroom. Luckily, you don’t have to. We’ve got 4 low-cost ways to spruce up your space for under $200 bucks! Even the cleanest of homes can have mold, and we’re not just talking about what you might find in last week’s leftovers! We share the surprising places mold can hid and what to do you do when you find it. When you move into an apartment, you’ll be expected to pay a damage security deposit. Getting it back, may not be quite so easy. We’ll tell you how to protect yourself from a landlord who wants to use your deposit unfairly. If the kids running upstairs make it tough for you to get any work done downstairs, we’ve got sound proofing tips to restore family harmony. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions on eliminating bio gas odors, stopping woodpeckers from damaging our chimney, repairing cracks in cement siding, removing wallpaper with destroying the walls underneath. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode: Small kitchens can be tough places to work in. But a few modest updates can make small kitchens feel bigger and work better. Tom & Leslie share tips in today’s Smart Spending Tip. If you’re thinking about getting your outdoor furniture out for the warm months ahead, chances are after an entire winter in storage -- it’ll be looking a lot worse for wear! We’ll have tips to get your outdoor furniture clean and spruced up for the season. Today, it’s easier than ever to be eco-friendly. But when it comes to choosing eco-friendly floors for your home, understanding how the product is produced is key. We’ll tell you what to look for. Are you planning to create a relaxing paver brick patio space to enjoy the sunshine as the warm weather approaches? We walk you through how to create an amazing paver patio from scratch – OR by paving over an existing patio. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, roofing material options, wainscoting walls, removing wax from surfaces, tips for installing siding over existing siding, installing a new tub. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode: Building a Shed is a fun DIY project. But did you know that whether the shed is wood, steel or vinyl, just ONE step can mean the difference between a shed that lasts for a season and one that can last decades. We share that tip plus the best options for shed storage. Nothing keeps your home looking updated better than a current kitchen. If you’re thinking about switching out old kitchen countertops for granite, we’ll have design tips to help. In the 20 years Tom spent as a professional home inspector, he often told his clients there are three kinds of houses: Those that HAD a termite problem, those that HAVE a termite problem, and those that WILL GET a termite problem!We’ve got solutions for keeping termites…and their costly damage… away from YOUR home.  Before we had walls made of drywall, we had walls made of plaster. Now, many homes have walls made of plaster cracks! We’ll tell you how to fix those plaster flaws – the easy way. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Using your new home warrantee, repairing a cracked garage floor, installing outdoor shutters, repair a tear linoleum flooring, installing smart switches, landscaping over a septic field. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Show Notes: As we say goodbye to winter, now is a good time to take a look at your driveway to see what winter’s road salt left behind. We walk you through options for driveway sealing, resurfacing or replacement and share a key detail on the type of asphalt that lasts the longest. Are you dreaming of relaxing on your deck in the warm days ahead, but have a deck that looks more like a nightmare? We can fix that with tips for a deck makeover that you’ll be able to get done for LESS than the average refund the IRS may be sending your way this spring - in today’s Tax Refund Project Tip, presented by HART TOOLS, available exclusively at WALMART. And as the first day of spring approaches, we get you ready with room-by-room Spring cleaning tips to make sure your home is spick and span. If you’re still feeling a chill, we share tips for selecting the best type of space heater. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: Refinishing furniture, installing a subfloor in basement, installing an under deck ceiling, installing an exhaust fan to prevent bathroom mold. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DIY’rs are ramping up their projects this Spring with 84% planning to take on even tougher projects in 2021 than last year! We’ll share tips on a tool system that can help you get there, with a reliable battery system that works on DOZENS of power and lawn and garden tools. Do you enjoying hanging out in your yard or patio but would love to have a bit more privacy? We share landscaping tips and tricks to create private backyard hideaways If you have a plumbing project to tackle, one type of pipe is very easy to work with and can save you lots of money. That is, as the mice don’t get to it first! We’ll tell you how to keep mice away from PEX pipe. With Spring storms on the way, adding a whole house surge protector can help prevent against some serious electrical damage. We explain where this fits in your electrical system, how it works and why is not a project you should do yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about: sealing granite countertops, installing ducted heating system, patching a concrete driveway, installing ice & water shield to your roof. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you ready for a new washing machine? We’ll take a look at the most popular features and help you decide which make the best washing machine for your laundry needs. For 55 years, ShopVac has been helping Americans with clean ups that household vacs could never hope to handle. Now this iconic brand has a new owner and some very exciting plans for the future. We hear from the new CEO. And did you know that the average Americans receives a tax refund of about $2,800? We figured, there are a lot of projects you can get done for that kind of money so today we’ll start a new series in partnership with HART Tools called Tax Refund Projects! Do you have a boring bathroom but no bucks to spruce it up? There’s a lot you can do on the cheap with paint. We share tips for stenciling and more. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about energy star rebates, repairing a slow dryer, temporary caulk for windows, repairing a stained tub, eliminating mice from your home, safety options for your home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hearing crazy house sounds from your home’s plumbing, water heater or heating systems? We explain the cause of all that racket and teach you which types of sounds spell trouble and which can be ignored. If there’s one thing in our home we want to be pure and fresh every time we reach for it -- it’s our water! But that’s not always the case. We’ll explain how to offset the smelly water odor – and hopefully get rid of it altogether. If your vintage home has some vintage wallpaper that’s peeling, we’ll have some tips on quick fixes to help you preserve the past. Have you ever spotted water droplets of even ice INSIDE your windowpanes? Bad seals can cause that problem. We share options for the easiest window repairs. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about removing weights from older windows, repairing nail pops on drywall, installing soapstone, sealing chimney flashing, repairing a foundation crack, improving water pressure. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While most folks focus on how their landscape looks they may not be as focused on their “LIGHT” scape! With the right combination of outdoor low-voltage lighting, there’s a whole new view awaiting you. We’ll walk you through the options. And also, ahead, if you’re a dog lover, getting up at all hours of the day or night to let your pooch out is not always very convenient. Now there’s a new type of automatic pet door on the market that gets built right into your home’s exterior door. We’ll share this new innovation that lets your pooches go in and out whenever they please. We’ll also share some tips on avoiding identify theft - a growing crime that can impact your ability to buy a home, especially if someone pretending to you ruins your credit. There’s a new government resource that can help victims. A disorganized kitchen pantry can make it difficult to find what you are looking for, add to the prep time for meals, and might even lead you to add things to the shopping list you already have! We’ve got easy ways to clear the clutter with pantry designs that deliver spacious and orderly food storage Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a whole house generator, testing for radon, collecting rainwater, repairing and exhaust fan, hiring a home inspector before buying a home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it comes to the topic of home improvement, there’s often more bad advice than sage wisdom – and that bad advice spreads like wildfire! We tackle some of the most common tales, share quick how-to tips and help you separate fact from home repair fiction. If you wanted to sell your home today, there are 5 décor elements that will keep buyers from ever pulling up to the curb. We share those and what a survey of the nation’s top real estate agents say you’ll need to do in a post pandemic world to assure a quick sale at the best price. Were you making dumb mistakes about charging your SMART devices? We’ve got tips on how simple changes to how you charge those devices that can save money. If you’d like to do some early spring cleanup of your walks and driveways, we share simple solutions to get rid of rust stains, as well as stains from moss and dirt! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, replacing knob and tube wiring, ventilating a hot tub in a sunroom and bathroom, eliminating grub worms from your lawn, refinishing a wood floor, repairing peeling paint, Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Picking the perfect paint color is a great way to brighten up any room but finding that wow color really makes the magic happen. We’ve got tips on the best paint colors to spark both a brighter space and a better mood! If you have hot water heat, you know that radiators can be nice and comfy in cold months. But if air gets stuck in that system, radiators can ping, bang and become cold as ice! The fixes are pretty simple –we’ll share tips for fine-tuning your noisy heat. Wood floors are beautiful but they’re not always the best choice in damp locations like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements.  We’ll have an overview of 100% waterproof floors that look like wood and work no matter how wet the space gets. If you’ve always though that kitchen and bath remodels add the most value to your home – you’ll be surprised to learn the much simpler projects that actually deliver the highest return on investment. We feature the top 5 and a bath reno isn’t even close! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about a clogged dishwasher, repairing a cracked foundation, broken seals on windows, chimney crickets. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re a renter, you may think you’re stuck with your kitchen. Not so! We’ll share 5 non-destructive spruce ups for your rental space that can be done without wrecking your security deposit! Filters for your heating and cooling system can help remove dust and make it a bit easier to breath. But with so many to choose from, which type really does the best job? We teach you how to decode the ratings to find the best air filter, just in time for the Spring allergy season. Power outages can strike without warning – especially with winter winds and spring storms. We got a plan for you to power through when your power is down. Filtered pitchers improve water taste and quality but take an effort to keep filled. We explore options in whole house water filter systems that treat all water in the house, right from the tap. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about using Trex decking, removing or painting wallpaper, installing blown in insulation, remove a tub mat, installing a blower on fireplace, steps to building a modular home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Farmhouse décor is more popular than ever. Tom & Leslie help you get started with ideas for eco-friendly farmhouse fix ups. Is your family growing? Before you hear the pitter patter of little feet – It’s smart to make sure home sweet home is safe as can be for kids. We’ve got everything you need to know about baby proofing your money pit, coming up. While many young adults return home to save money, a basement may be a good choice for a bedroom and a bit of privacy. But building codes demand some special requirements for sleeping spaces below grade. We explain why and help you determine if basement bedroom renovations make sense for your home. ·Want to get rid of popcorn ceilings? If you’re tired of flakes falling on your face, food, and clothes, or just grossed out by the dust and dirt it collects, we explain the easiest ways to make popcorn ceilings disappear. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, replacing older windows, heating your home with a wood stove, floor patching before installing engineered flooring,hiring a home inspector. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

High-efficiency washers are on the rise, and Energy Star-certified dryers can cut energy by an impressive 25% -- BUT are these more efficient (and more expensive) washers and dryers a smart buy? We could all use a little more sunshine this time of year…spotless windows can help! We’ve got tips on how to clean your windows like a pro, and you won’t even need any paper towels. Has Valentine’s Day got you feeling extra romantic? Wondering what the best quality SHEETS are to cuddle up in? We’ve got pros and cons of every material from Egyptian cotton to bamboo, in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Winter is the most common time of year for house fires. We hear from leading experts on the best way to know if your smoke detectors are really working, and will cover all types of fires, from slow burning smolders to fast flash fires. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, lighting timers, leaking light fixtures, leveling your floor for vinyl installation, installing shelving, adding additional insulation to walls. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If there’s one room you’d like to be bright and cheery, it’s the kitchen! We’ll have tips on kitchen lighting to keep that space looking bright – even when it’s dark outside. If you enjoy a glass or two of wine during these long chilly winter days - we’ll share a few simple stain cleaning solutions for any “merlot mishaps” that may happen along the way. And if you’ve been chipping away at a lot of ice this winter, we’ll have a trick of the trade to help make it disappear, especially when it freezes a garage door shut. Spring may still be weeks away but don’t let these dreary days of winter drag you down! We share a few dollar-wise winter home improvement projects can spruce up your home and your spirits! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, a bald spot on a roof, repairing hard water from a well, eliminating pests, mice & rats from entering your home, cleaning mold from walls, stopping ice dams, repairing a noisy countertop. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever thought of adding hardwood floors to your home, you might be surprised to know that some hardwoods are, well, not as hard as others! We’ll have tips on how to choose the toughest hardwoods for maximum durability in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Tiles are beautiful and decorative elements for floors and walls but finding replacements when one or two cracks can seem near impossible. We’ll share tips for repairing or replacing hard to find tiles. Did you know that over 350,000 house fires happen each year with a big portion caused by faulty fireplaces and wood burning stoves? We’ll tell you what you need to know to keep safe. Plus, we have a great giveaway today courtesy of our new sponsor Hart Tools!!One listener drawn at random will win a HART 20-Volt Cordless 4-Tool Combo kit to give away worth $178! HART Tools are well made, versatile and available exclusively at Walmart. To qualify, call in your home improvement question to 888-MONEY PIT!   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, cleaning wood walls, home odors, decks, removing wallpaper, installing a whole house air filtering system.   Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you’re dealing with a repair or dreaming about a reno, hosts Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete serve as your coach, helper or home improvement therapist for all things remodeling, decor or fix up! From bathrooms to basements, and gardening to garages, you’ll get expert advice to help you tackle your to-do’s with confidence, and have a little fun along the way! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2020 millions of us took on projects to INVEST in the NEST! Now that well we’re into the new year, there’s no sign that trend is slowing down. We’ll highlight the next big décor trends for 2021 including the best choices for indoor greenery, in today’s Smart Spending Tip. If you think maintaining YOUR money pit is a hassle… just consider what it takes to keep the PEOPLE’S house running! For starters, just painting the exterior takes 570 gallons of paint. We share a few fun facts about what it takes to maintain the White House and the team of trade pros that get it done. Winter birds can brighten up a dreary outdoor view. We walk you through the best kinds of bird feeders and food, to bring some life and color to your backyard by attracting a variety of winter birds. If there’s one thing that can bring an end to warm fuzzies and fireworks, it’s when a couple tries to agree on home design! Designing for him and her doesn’t have to involve so much sacrifice. We share a few design ideas for marriage harmony, Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about repairing a cracked foundation, removing stains from a corian countertop, installing ice & water shield on your roof, rehang a front door to align, preventing shingles from changing colors. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In floor heating is one of the best and most comfortable ways to heat a house. We walk you through 3 options to add radiant heating in both new and existing homes. If you rent a house or apartment, there’s an insurance loophole that can cost tenants big if your home was damaged by a flood or fire. We share a simple solution to keep you protected. We get a lot of questions about how to clean tile grout – which always seem to look great the day it’s put in and then quickly turns to dirty and drab! We’ll share a solution that can restore the new-grout brightness. Termites are easy to spot in the spring and summer, but these same house hungry insects get a lot hard to spot when weather turns cold. We’ll share a home inspectors’ trick-of-the-trade for finding termites before they eat you out of house and home, even in winter. If mice have found a home in YOUR home this winter, we share 3 ways to keep mice out year-round Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, adding insulation to an addition, choosing air filters, cleaning rusty grout in a bathroom, venting for a new water heater. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Would you like to do a better job of taking care of your home but just don’t have the time? We’ve got 30 home repairs you can do in 30 minutes or less!  Tile is a timeless and durable choice for a floor but aside from the look, choosing the best TYPE of tile is the only way to make sure that beautiful floor lasts. We’ll share tips to help you choose the best tile and save in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Did you know that with every breath you take, you may be inhaling not only clean fresh air, but also VOC’s that can impact your health. We’ve got tips to help you understand and avoid volatile organic compounds. Good lighting is key to a happy home. We share tips on how to brighten your spaces with the best lighting for every type of activity. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, removing a popcorn ceiling, installing energy efficient windows, idea renovations for a small kitchen, repairing a sagging wood floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve been feeling winter drafts whip through your windows, we walk you through a simple checklist to help you figure out if benefits of replacement windows are worth the cost. There’s nothing worse than hanging a heavy picture only to have it come crashing down! We’ll share a tried-and-true way to secure your wall hangings safely. Do some of your meals come out HALF baked? Don’t blame the cook, blame the oven. We’ll explain why all oven temperatures can vary and how to fix the problem. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about replacing a skylight, soundproofing a room, realigning interior doors, tiling a fireplace surround. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A little bit on paint goes a long way, especially when you apply the new 2021 Color of the Year! If you are looking to refresh your space, this year’s color can open up a ton of possibilities. We’ll share what it is and décor ideas on where to use it. With a little work, a garage can be a great place to find space for storage, organization, crafts and projects – if it’s warm and heated. We’ll share tips to help you seal up and save. Treating slippery sidewalks with sidewalk salt will cause ice to melt, but the wrong kind of salt can also cause sidewalk surfaces to disintegrate. Listen for a recipe for safe sidewalk salt that won’t damage concrete. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, turning your shower into a steam room, replacing patio doors, best way to unclog a sink drain, garage door repair, laminate floor repair. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does your laundry room feels dark, cluttered and disorganized and maybe even a bit dangerous? We’ve got tips for safe laundry room renos that will brighten your space and put everything in its place! If you’d like to enjoy fresh water from every faucet in your house, a whole house water filter can do that just as it comes into the house – bringing you crisp, clean water from every tap in your home. We’ll share the best options for a fresh water supply. If you live in a home with a fireplace, you’re probably using it a lot during these cold months. But did you know your fireplace your fireplace can drive up your insurance costs? We explain why and how to lower that expense. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about ,applying epoxy to a garage floor, installing your own central air conditioning, cleaning mold off a roof, best way to lay a tile floor, installing a ceiling fan. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The right combination of kitchen lighting can beautify your space while improving the functionality of work areas. We highlight the best kitchen lighting options for ambient, task, and accent lighting in today’s Smart Spending Tip. We hear a lot these days about ways to make sure the air inside our homes is clean – but unfortunately a lot of that advice is just plain wrong! We talk with expert Jeff May, author of My House is Killing Me, on what we’re doing right - and what we’re doing wrong to breathe easy inside our homes. We love home improvement hacks that that help us get stuff done and share 4 to save time while fixing up your space. If you’re hit with a big winter storm and don’t have your car tucked away in a garage… it’s always a pain to clear the snow and ice off your car. Get 4 quick tips to remove ice and snow. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing floor registers, fixing cracked drywall and patio gaps, preparing for HVAC installation in a basement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tired of chilly floors? Adding radiant heat to your home’s floor can provide a for a very comfortable and energy efficient home, not to mention stopping the shock of setting foot on a cold floor first thing in the morning! We highlight two systems that can work for both new and existing homes.  Are you tired of feeling, well, tired? For many people, these shorter and colder days can bring on a case of the blues that can impact your mood, focus and energy. We’ve got easy DIY pick-me-ups to beat the blues and raise your spirit! Want to get the most out of the hassle and expense of getting firewood? All that hard work that can be undone all too easily if you don’t store the firewood properly before tossing it into your fireplace. We’ll tell you how. Plus, we ask what is on YOUR to do list for the New Year. Whether you’re dealing with a repair or dreaming about a reno, we dig in to serve as your coach, helper or home improvement therapist for all things remodeling, decor or fix up!  Plus, we answer your home improvement questions about, replacing flush valve on toilet, installing gutter guards, programming a garage door, replacing a kitchen window. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you are busting at the seams and looking for some getaway space for crafts or projects, a heated garage may do the trick. This was a project Tom took on during the quarantine and he share tips on the easiest ways for you to warm up this workspace at your home. Americans have been taking on home improvement in record numbers. But as we improve our homes, should we also be improving our insurance policies to make sure they’re protected from fires, floods and other disasters? Tom & Leslie talk to an expert attorney who specializes in helping homeowners fight insurance companies that try to avoid paying claims for the very damage you bought insurance for in the first place! Cleaning the counters might be something you do multiple times a day without much thought. We show you how to keep counters clean longer — so you can spend less time wiping them down Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about installing energy star windows, repairing a buckled wood floor, types of insulation to use in your attic. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you have an electric water heater, you probably know all too well it's also the most expensive way to get hot water. Smart home technology has now arrived providing options for water heaters that not only cost less to operate but include built-in leak protection to stop floods. If your roof starts to leak when the snow starts to melt, – you might have a common problem known as an ice dam, we’ll have tips to melt this problem away – and an important tip on how to get your insurance company to pay for the fix. Plus, we’ve got 3 handy hacks to help deal with snow and ice this winter, including a recipe for a homemade deicer you can mix-up whenever it’s needed in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing gutters, using Dricore to help moisture, installing grab bars, installing a tankless hot water heater. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thanks to the pandemic, getting fresh clean air inside your home is more important than ever. But you don’t have to throw open windows in frigid weather. We’ll share ways to makes sure the air INSIDE your home is as clean as possible in today’s Smart Spending Tip. With so many folks spending a lot of time at home these days, it’s a great time to think about how smart home products can make our homes more convenient and safer. We’ll share some new ways to do just that.  A leaking water heater can lead to pretty major flood damage. But now there’s a new water heater on the market that detects leaks and automatically shuts off the water supply stopping serious flooding before it even starts. We’ll share the update. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, venting a garage, radiator repairs, heating unused rooms Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

According to a new survey by Travelers, 75% of Americans have been taking on home improvement projects since the quarantine began – and I’d venture a guess that this is more activity than the home improvement industry has seen in decades. We’re going to take a look at the top 5 projects folks are taking on in just a bit. Are outside noises disturbing your sleep or work? You can minimize those sounds. Whether it’s traffic noise, the train, noisy neighbors or loud plumbing, we’ll have tips to help you get back your peace and quiet. The colder it gets the more expensive it is to pick up fresh herbs and veggies. But you can have fresh, healthy foods year-round by growing your own with veggie container gardens! We’ll tell you the plants that grow best in cold weather and more just ahead. Home fires peak in the winter. We’ll highlight a new type of “smart” fire and carbon monoxide detector that’s wireless and interconnected to keep your home safe, even when you are not home. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating mice, repairing loose floor tile, cleaning a fireplace hearth, resetting a toilet. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

·        Now is the season for many things and unfortunately one of those is the fire season. There are more smoke and carbon monoxide incidents in these next couple months than any other time of the year. Tom & Leslie highlight new smart home technology that can help keep you safe. Getting ready to refresh your home with some new décor? Not sure if your budget is ready to handle the hit? We’ll share 5 ways to save lots of money decorating your home sweet home in today’s Smart Spending Tip just ahead. Did you know that according to the CDC, many of us are not cleaning and disinfecting our homes the right way? We’ll share a simple tip that can help make sure you’re getting rid of bacteria and viruses and other all the hard surfaces in your house. It’s pretty well-known that poinsettia flowers, while beautiful, can be dangerous if eaten. But it turns out that other holiday flowers are actually far more toxic. We share tips to keep you and your pets safe. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, tiling over a countertop repairing vinyl flooring, filling in a concrete patio, installing a wood stove properly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A warm fire from a wood stove or fireplace adds comfort and to a chilly winter day. But did you know that not all firewood delivers the same level of heat. We’ll share tips on how to select the best firewood for comfort and safety, coming up.  Whether your furnace is shot or you’re ready for a more efficient upgrade, a new furnace should never be an impulse buy. But too often, that’s exactly what does happen – especially if your furnace gives out in the middle of winter! We’ll explain how to shop furnaces the smart way. Tis’the season – the season for selecting a Christmas tree. But if you’re a family who always goes for the real tree, you might be surprised to learn how much a fake tree can also look like the real thing – we’ll share tips from our holiday tree buying guide, including some fun new lighting options. If you own an old house with chilly, drafty walls – adding insulation can seem like a difficult job. We share tricks of the trade to insulate finished walls without damaging walls in the process. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, Installing a new front door, how to replace a leaky shower pan, correct drainage problems, correct way to repaint bathroom cabinets Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Space is at a premium these days and one area not to overlook is UP, the attic! We highlight several ways to take advantage of the attic space overhead, including how to plan for ceiling height, stairs, heating, cooling and décor.   If you think back over the years, have you made energy saving or other improvements to your home that upped its “green” factor? Those green home improvements could just help you sell your home more quickly than the competition. Tom & Leslie tell you why, just ahead in today’s Smart Spending Tip. Icicles look very pretty hanging from the edge of your roof this time of year… but did you know they may signal a potential problem with your roof that can cause pretty major leaks? We’ll have tips on how to prevent ice dams (and the leaks they cause!) After spending so much time at home recently, you’d like to change up your décor but your budget is already strained! There are ways to stretch that budget, along with your creative “muscles”, to create a place you’ll be proud to call home – just by repurposing what you have, or perhaps items your collect from friends or family Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing floorboards, preparing walls for painting, replace windows, best way to heat a small cabin. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve been thinking about investing in a home but don’t have the funds to go it alone, buying a home with a partner can be an option. Tom and Leslie walk you through the steps you should consider before making that big purchase. If you are tightening your belt, you may be thinking about slashing your home maintenance budget. That could be a BIG mistake, we’ll explain why. Do you ever feel like you’re always having trouble finding the tool you’re looking for? If your workshop or craft space is cluttered, disorganized, maybe even overflowing, a standard toolbox might not be cutting it for you. We’ll have helpful tips for tool organization coming up. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, options for insulating your attic, installing a marble countertop, how to add speckles to garage epoxy floor, repairing a flat roof, eliminating roaches. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall is the flooring season and with dozens of products and an infinite number of designs, we’re going to share some tips and new digital tools to help you find the perfect floor choice for your home. We’re all cleaning and disinfecting more than ever before now and with the holidays coming up, that’s only going to get more intense. Well share tips on a really handy Disinfectant that cleans, disinfects and deodorizes in one step and is also effective against the COVID 19 virus on hard non-porous surfaces. If you’re finding you need more storage room in your house, your attic may be an option – but only if it has a solid floor. We’ll share tips on the best way to add floor space without impacting your home structure, or insulation. If your home feels small and your planning to move -- staging the home before potential buyers show up can help to create a positive first impression. But this almost always involves getting rid of a lot of what made your home crowded in the first place. Staging is the key. We explain how Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a railing, finding your roof leak, maintaining a new home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your walls are showing cracks, holes or nail pops – we’ve got tips to get them back in shape once and for all. Plus… If you’re tired of shoveling after every storm --  a snow blower can do it for you! But they’re not one-size-fits-all – we’ll tell you how to choose the best snow blower for the job Have you ever been surprised by a big electric bill? We’ll share the most common places energy is wasted – in today’s Smart Spending Tip Thinking about purchasing a home from another era? It’s actually possible to predict what might need work – based only on the age! We’ll share the common repairs by house age. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating hard water, squeaky hardwood floors, repairing trim that has been scraped by animals, venting your appliances. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you preparing to deck your halls this holiday season…and maybe even your windows, doors and trees? Make sure your holiday lights are working before you spend hours stringing and hanging them. We’ve got fast, free and easy holiday light fixes Home projects have never been more popular than they have over the last few months of the pandemic. But DIY doesn’t mean you need a full shop full of tools to tackle. We’ll share fun, smaller projects that you can get done with staplers, glue guns and simple materials around the home. Before you set out to travel this holiday season it’s important to make sure your home is safe and secure – ESPECIALLY your garage. We’ll share why the garage door can be a vulnerable point of entry for burglars… and what steps to take to secure it, coming up. Toy-making elves are popular during the holidays, so why not give your kids the tools – literally – to make some unique toys and projects of their own? How to keep young hands, brains and imaginations busy with a fun and practical take on building blocks. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, best caulk to use for windows, repairing decorative columns, eliminating bathroom moisture, insulating a cathedral ceiling Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it comes to maintaining your home, painting is a project that’s among the most basic of DIY projects, and one which most homeowners are happy to tackle themselves. But it’s also a project that can go terribly wrong if you don’t take just three steps before you start. One appliance that you may own and you’ll never want to be without again is your garbage disposer. But during the holidays, disposers get jammed more than any other time in the year. If that happens to you, there’s no need to pay a plumber double time and a half! We’ll tell you about a super easy way to get it back in action. With the holidays upon us, adding a festive touch to your windows is a great way to spread holiday cheer – but you need to make sure you know how to attach those decorations WITHOUT damaging window frames. We’ll share some non-destructive decorating secrets. Fall is the season when stink bugs start really showing up in your house. However, there’s one thing you should never do to get rid of them. We’ll share that tip Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about., installing a laminate floor over concrete, using recap to repair concrete, air filtration systems, paneling options, remove wallpaper,leveling a garage floor, drainage issues. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you love the look of a classic parkway floor with an intricate Chevron pattern. We’ll share a new way affordable to add that hand-crafted look to your home. For the last few months we’ve all been cleaning our homes a lot more than we had before the pandemic. But with all those cleaning products, did you ever wonder if you were exposing yourself to toxic chemicals in the process? We’ll share a better cleaning option If you are thinking of updating your bedroom with a new mattress or furniture, we’ll have tips to make sure your purchase results in a better night’s sleep. If you’d like to enjoy the warm glow of fireplace this winter, you’d better make sure the screens are clean to start. Leslie has the details. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, installing a whole house fan, texturing a wall, poor drainage issues affecting foundation. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you love the colorful trees of fall but dread dragging piles of leaves to the curb – maybe not so much? We’ve got a better idea – why not compost those leaves so they can benefit next year’s garden. Tom and Leslie share tips. Now that we are moving into the roughest weather season of the year, it’s a good time to plan for roof repairs or a replacement that might be needed to be done to keep your home nice and dry. But what’s the smartest way to go: repair or replace? We’re going to tell you what you need to know to make that determination. With all the holiday meals happening now, have you noticed that when you run your dishwasher, are dishes coming out dirtier than when they went in? Get tips for keeping your dishwasher working properly. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, choosing a countertop for an undermount sink, toilet blockages, vinyl siding repair process, installing a tankless hot water heater. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you ever notice that some leftovers seem to last a long time and other turns shades of green is an instant? Tom & Leslie explain why that happens and what you can do to make sure your leftovers last. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. EPISODE SUMMARY: Did you ever notice that some leftovers seem to last a long time and other turns shades of green is an instant? Tom & Leslie explain why that happens and what you can do to make sure your leftovers last. Do you ever feel like you’re always having trouble finding the tool you’re looking for? If your workshop or craft space is cluttered, disorganized, maybe even overflowing, a standard toolbox might not be cutting it for you. Get helpful tips for tool organization. Hardwood floors are great to have but if yours are worn, how do you know if they can be refinished? Well share tips for a floor redo that doesn’t involve hiring pros with massive sanding machines that turn you home into a wooden “dust bowl.” Heating and cooling is one of the biggest expenses of owning a home. We look atone type of system that provides heating, central air conditioning and hot water at over four times the efficiency of any furnace on the market Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about... removing wallpaper and installing wainscotting, repair peeling bathroom paint, steps to installing a tile floor, waterproofing a basement floor.     Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re all trying to avoid germs more than ever and motion-activated faucets are good for cutting down the spread of germs in public restrooms – but are they a healthy fit for your home? Tom and Leslie share the options With freezing weather ahead, now is a good time to make sure a frozen, broken water pipe DOES NOT turn the INSIDE of your home into a Winter Wonderland! One very special type of valve can stop this from happen to you. We’ll explain how. What’s the difference between a garage and a home workshop or gym that you can use year-round? Often as little as twenty or thirty degrees! We’ve got tips to help heat your garage so you can find more useable space. If you’d like to paint your kitchen cabinets, there’s one very special primer that can make the difference between paint that sticks and paint that flakes away! We’ll share the solution. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, natural way to clean windows, painting a refrigerator, eliminating geese, repairing a concrete driveway, refinishing brick on a fireplace. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your closet is looking a little messy -- closet organization may be in order, but that’s one project that ranks right up there with dental work as something to look forward to. We’ll have step-by-step, or shall we say “shelf-by shelf” tips to make this job easy to tackle. Have you ever considered adding gutter guards to end clogged gutters once in for all? Well don’t take another step until you hear about the results if a survey done by Ask the Builder which gathered actual costs from consumers across the nation. The numbers will FLOOR you! They range from a few dollars - all the way up to 90 dollars a foot! - in many cases for the exact same product! Tim Carter did the review and joins us with the results. If you’d like to have the best flower garden ever come Spring, Fall is the time to take an important first step – planting bulbs. Well help set you up for success when the weather turns warm again. Did you know that the sheets you sleep on can have a big impact on whether or not you get a full night’s sleep? Leslie has tips on the best bedding for getting some shut-eye. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about insulating a sink, eliminating knob and tube wiring, temporary caulk weatherstripping for windows. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall is the perfect time for outdoor painting but taking on an entire home is a big project that requires proper planning, preparation and tools. Tom and Leslie share pro tips to help you get the project home. Plus… As the days get shorter and the night gets longer, it’s a good time to think about adding security lighting to your home. And this is a job, surprisingly, that you may be able to do yourself.  You might not even realize it, but one of the most common home accidents is a fall. We’ll have tips to help you avoid the slips and falls! Have you ever spotted fuzzy white growth on a basement wall and wondered if it was mold? We share how to tell for sure. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing soffit vents, eliminated squirrels in the attic, repair shower pan and doors, removing adhesive from floors. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you love the look of greenery around the outside your house but seem to have only a black thumb when it comes to getting greenery to flourish inside your home, we have a solution. And, it may not be a homeowner’s favorite thing to do, but if you have a septic tank -- taking care of it is crucial to avoid a very big mess. We’ll have tips on how to keep your septic system happy If you are lucky enough to have a sprinkler system for your lawn, now is the time when that system needs to be winterized. You don’t want to see what happens when it’s NOT -- trust me – it happened to me once and it’s a real mess! We’ll explain what needs to happen to avoid a frozen mess just ahead. Your entryway serves as a perfect place to show off your love of the season, even if you are not going to be hosting big gatherings this year. We’ve got a few ideas to hopefully inspire you. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, adjusting doors, heating a garage, blown in attic insulation, re roofing. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There’s a good chance there’s one room in your home that’s eating up your heat – and your heating budget, your garage. Stay tuned for tips on adding energy efficiency to this chilly space.  Whether you’re a young Mom with her hands full, or taking care of an aging parent, universally designed products make life so much easier and safer. We share why universal design works for all homes and all ages later on. Plus, have you checked your WINDOWS lately? Listen up for a checklist for you to make sure your windows are still as energy efficient as they were the day there were installed. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a water softener, leveling a floor, eliminating fruit flies, insulating ducts, getting stains out of a cement garage floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever stepped into the shower first thing in the morning and received a blast of icy cold water, you know it’s not best way to wake up! New technology in water heaters can prevent this by circulating hot water to bathrooms, BEFORE you need it! We’ll share how to stop this “shower shock” ounce and for all. Plus… If you’re tackling fall clean ups around the house -- getting rid of trash is easy, but getting rid of hazardous trash, not so much. We have tips on the easiest ways to purge your home and garage of things like old paint, pesticides and more just ahead. Fall is the perfect time to get your lawn ready for winter, and a bright green spring and summer next year. We’ll share a handy 4-step checklist to help you do just that. The most common laundry room disaster is a broken washer supply hose and it can cause thousands of gallons of water to flood your home! Learn one simple switch that can stop this from happening to you! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing a leaky skylight, repurposing carpeting, eliminating spiders, hiring an architect in order to age in place. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are the leaves beginning to pile up around your home, do you dread all the raking and leaf cleanup? We’ve got tips to speed up your leaf removal so you can get back to enjoying the beautiful weather. It’s fireplace season, which means getting your chimney cleaned is a job that’s needed. But unfortunately, it can also lead to chimney contractors offering false advice in the hopes of getting even more money out of your wallet. We’ll sort out the facts from all that SMOKE. If you’ve got a plan for keeping your family safe during extreme weather -- great! But have you thought about how you’ll keep your most important records safe when you may need them most? We’ll share tips on the most disaster proof strong boxes and safes. Would like to step up your bath before the holidays? You can WIN fixtures, faucets and more from Riverbend Home.com in our new “Beautiful Bath Sweepstakes!” We are giving away $3,500 in bath products from brands like American Standard, Grohe and DXV all available RiberbendHome.com. Enter once a day. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing cracks in your basement floor, caulking a tub, installing a back flow preventor, realigning a door. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re a home improving weekend warrior, we’ve got tips on easy “all-in-one-weekend” home improvement projects that are so easy on your schedule you can fit them in after your Saturday morning coffee and still have enough time for a leisurely dinner Sunday! Plus… Fall is a great time to get your lawn, garden and landscape ready for winter and a quick comeback next spring. But to do that, you need great quality tools. We’ll introduce you to a line of cordless products -- including blowers, and even chain saws that are affordable and TRULY work just as well as gas-powered tools without the smells and hassles of maintaining them. If you want to give your walls a new look – we’ve got tips on wall coverings that can add interest and color to your décor. Tips on the best type of flooring for every room in the house. We announce a new way to win bathroom faucets and fixtures in the Riverbend Beautiful Bath Giveaway, and we’re giving away sets of sturdy bar clamps from Pony Jorgensen to help with all your home projects.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, leveling a floor, gutter repair, turning a sauna into a shower, repairing HVAC returns. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall may not be the season for planting a new garden but it is definitely the season for planting new trees and bushes – and that’s a project we’re taking on here at The Money Pit to keep the deer away from the apparently very tasty bushes we have now. We share tips on why this is the best option for a deer-resistant landscape and how to make sure the job is a success. Plus… Do cracks in the walls on your home mean you’re headed toward an expensive repair? We’ll share how to know plus a hack to fix plaster cracks so they won’t open again. As the chilly drafts start to find their way to your home, did you know that one type of window coverings can actually help to “warm up” your windows? We’ll walk you through that toasty option. We’re really excited today to launch a new sweepstakes with the folks at RiverbendHome.com. It’s called the Riverbend Home Beautiful Bath Sweepstakes and we are giving away $3,500 in bath products from brands like American Standard and Grohe, all available Riverbend Home.  All this, and answers to your home improvement questions about removing candlewax from a deck, installing trim/baseboard, French drain installation, repair split siding. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the sale of your house. But using right colors can actually help sell your home faster! Tom & Leslie share the most profitable colors for Kitchen and Bath. Plus… Plus, a pressure washer can make short work of that last round of outdoor cleaning. We’ve got advice to consider when buying one. If you’re planning a home improvement project, discovering hidden costs mid-project can really ramp up the stress! We’ll share some of those money-drains and tell you how to prepare. The right lighting can really make a big difference in your bathroom. We share the best bathroom lighting choices for LED bulbs that make you look your best – even first thing in the morning! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, replacing a hot water heater, cleaning shower grout, eliminating squeaks from wood floors. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer’s come to an end, but your fresh supply of veggies doesn’t have to. In this episode Tom & Leslie tips to how to turn your summer vegetable garden into a fall vegetable garden. Plus… Plus, as the temps go down the cost of heating your home goes up! We’ll share a few simple steps you can take around your home to reduce energy use and save money too! If you are ready for a healthy alternative to the cost and all the waste of bottled water– we’ll review water filters that can be installed in your homes plumbing system that’ll deliver great tasting water at a tiny fraction of the cost of buying bottled. Trying to fit your car in your garage? What a concept! Get handy tips for garage organization that can make it happen. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, hiring a private insurance adjustor, cleaning your washing machine, repairing a popcorn ceiling, how to choose gutters, dryer venting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From single sinks to limited square footage, smaller bathrooms often leave much to be desired. But you don’t have to make a bathroom bigger to make it better. Tom & Leslie share tips expand your bath without emptying your wallet. Plus… Do you ever feel like you spend as much time cleaning your kitchen as cooking in it? Well, we’ve got tips on how you can put all of that to rest by creating a low maintenance kitchen! With the chilly weather setting in, do you have an area in your house that just never seems to get warm? Space heaters may be a solution – IF they’re used safely. We’ll tell you how to shop for a space heater that can supplement your whole home heat and without driving up utility expense. If you are getting ready to rent an apartment, there are many things to consider outside of just the 4 walls. Find out what you need to know before you rent to make the best choice in where you live. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, applying epoxy floor in basement, converting to a wood stove, repairing ceiling cracks. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you know that Fall is the busiest season of the year for flooring projects? Well, it turns out that flooring is not being used for just floors anymore. Designers are using floor materials in some very unexpected and beautiful ways. Tom & Leslie have tips for this trending project. Plus… Pretty soon it’ll be time to take out your window screens for the season. Before that happens there’s one thing, you’ll need to do to make sure they last though winter storage and are good to go next spring. We’ll share that step, just ahead. Ceramic tiles are durable and easy to care for, but what happens if one breaks and you can’t find a replacement? We’ll share some fast fixups for tile projects. Are you saving half-filled cans of leftover paint from a project? We’ll share step by step tips for storing paintthat’ll make it last TWICE what the manufacturers say it should. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a vapor barrier, choosing a kitchen sink, repairing pool steps, improving driveway drainage. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall is the season to work on getting your lawn ready for next year but can doing so expose you to toxic chemicals? Tom & Leslie share a better path toward a healthy and green using non-toxic, easy to apply lawn care products. Plus… Fall is also a good time to get your driveway ready for winter. Get DIY tips to fix driveway cracks, patch holes and seal the surface for a fraction of the cost of hiring a pro. Is dust, pollen and other allergens making your life a sneezing, sniffling mess? Does it get worse when you start to seal your home up for the cold weather? Learn the ONE thing you can do to help reduce allergens. Are ready for some healthy home décor? We’ve got all-natural decorating ideas to bring the colors and smells of autumn into your home. Options for homes without gutters to stop erosion and flooding. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing windows in a garden shed, best siding options, removing tile grout, eliminating spiders, how to solve the problem of hot water taking so long to heat up. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With cooler weather ahead, now is a great time to get your chimney ready for a roaring fire. Tom and Leslie share tips and ideas to make sure your chimney is clean and safe for a season of toasty fires. Plus… Whether your old furnace is ready for replacement or you want a more efficient upgrade, a new furnace should never be an impulse buy.  But too many times, that’s exactly what does happen – especially if your furnace gives out in the middle of winter! We’ll have tips to help you make the smart choice when it comes to a new furnace. Garages are unique places to get organized because they are one of the only spot in your home where tools, toys and toxins, like pesticides, get stored side by side. We’ll share some tips for better garage organization. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, adding electric heating to a basement, best fencing options, refinishing kitchen cabinets. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your pancakes are salty and your meatloaf is sweet – you might not be lacking cooking skills but the right lighting in your kitchen! Tom & Leslie share tips for top task lighting. Plus… With U.S. home prices still rising, is buying a home that’s been foreclosed a good deal? We’ll share the pros and cons. If you’d like your home to be more energy efficient you first need to do is to stop wasting the energy you already have. Insulation is the key– IF it’s added to the right spaces. We’ll share key spaces where insulation does the most good. As weather turns cold, mice look for spaces inside your house to keep warm and fed! Learn how to stop mice from moving in for the winter. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, getting rid of mice, collecting rain water, repairing a cracked drywall ceiling, getting paint off a brick façade. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New kitchens consistently deliver the best return on your remodeling investment. But how do actually you get started on planning such a major makeover? Tom & Leslie share tips to help you cook up a perfect plan! Plus…  Have you ever tried to fix a crack in a concrete step, or porch or sidewalk only to have it open right back up again? We’ll share some easy ways to make these repairs and make them last. Your stove’s exhaust vent hood is there for every cooking adventure, but it rarely gets any attention (except during a smoky kitchen incident!). Learn how simple it is to keep your vent hood in tip-top shape. Have you ever tried to clean a stain on your vinyl floor that seem impossible to get out? It may not be a stain at all! Tom & Leslie share why these mysterious and permanent discolorations occur and what options you have for dealing with them. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, refinishing outdoor rusted furniture, how to clean siding, hiring a home inspector before purchasing a house, repointing a brick façade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Squeaking floors are one of life’s little annoyances, but do they signal a structural problem below? Tom & Leslie have the answer plus step-by-squeaky-step tips to make them go away for good. Plus… You drink it, you cook with it, you bathe in it…but are you sure it’s safe? Tap water can be deceiving, because it looks and tastes harmless even when it’s not – which is why it’s a good idea to test it to find out – we’ll tell you how. Wood floors are beautiful but they’re not always the best choice in damp locations like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements.  We’ll have an overview of what will work. Low water pressure can lead to lousy showers. We walk you through the possible causes including some you can fix yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing plaster ceilings, replacing a bathroom vent fan, getting rid of spiders, best paint for a garage door, removing carpet from a concrete floor, installing a french drain. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DIY or Go Pro? If you want to tackle a project yourself, we’ll be the first ones to cheer you on. But how do you know when hiring a pro is the best way to go? We’ll tell you how to think it all through before you pick up a hammer. Plus… When it comes to home improvement, there are a lot of myths that cost DIYrs a lot of money. We’ll tackle 4 common MYTH-STAKES. Cold weather is not far off making now the perfect time to check out your insulation. We’ll tell you how much you really need. Butcher block counters are beautiful but are they safe? We’ll share secrets to finishing butcher block with risking E.coli and other harmful situations. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, hiring an architect for addition project, installing ice & water shield under roofing, realign doors, getting estimates for a painting project, best options for a covered patio roof. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adding flooring to your attic can make it a perfect place for storage. But doing so the wrong way means that you could weaken your structure, squash your insulation, or find yourself with one foot planted firmly through the ceiling below! Tom & Leslie share tips on attic flooring that works well. Wouldn’t it be nice to have home experts available by phone or chat whenever you need them to walk you through a project? We tell you about a new subscription service that puts knowledgeable, impartial experts just a call or click away to give you the answers you need. With all the recent summer storms, did you need to have a tree or two taken down? What about the STUMP? We’ll share 4 easy options to make it disappear. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, removing vinyl tile, installing a new thermostat, foundation moisture, sealing drafts in your home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kitchens renos can be costly but updating dated, drab and dull cabinets doesn’t have to be. Tom and Leslie walk you through options to replaced, refaced or just refinish kitchen cabinets and save a ton of money! Plus, concrete is a pretty permanent building material but if yours looks pitted or cracked, we’ve got a great solution for resurfacing concrete that you can do yourself with amazing results. Now that we have reached September, it’s a good time to make sure your gutters are ready for the fall season ahead. We’ll walk you through the step by step and to make sure things keep flowing smoothly. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing a leaky toilet, cleaning garage floor of grease, caulking windows, cleaning ceiling mold safely Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Having a hard time maintaining a lush green lawn in the heat of summer. Tom & Leslie share you need to know to make it past the brown and back to green. Are cooling costs driving up your electric bills? Get tips for low cost to no cost ways to keep you cool during these hottest days of the summer season. If you’d like your home to feel open and airy but don’t have the budget for a major remodel, we’ve got smart tips to help open up the space without emptying your bank account in the process. For all the cutting-edge design ideas out there, most of us still follow unwritten design rules. We’ve got ideas for shaking up status quo and making big design statements.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, painting a fireplace for the first time, striping kitchen cabinets, eliminating mold in a building with sheetrock, painting trim white, hiring a home inspector or engineer to find cause of cracking foundation. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now is a good time to plan end of season projects to set you up for the cooler months ahead. We’ve got 4 projects that will save you time, money and help avoid costly repairs when colder weather prevails. Plus, garages get a workout in the Fall and Winter, which is why now is a great time to fix up the garage floor. We’ll have tips on the best way to get this done using epoxy paint. Painting the exterior is a job that needs to get done every 5 to 10 years and if your house is ready for that project, we’ll share a few pro house painting tips help. Can you imagine a breezy summer evening in your backyard, fireflies dancing around, and you’re watching your favorite movie? You can, by building your own backyard movie screen! We’ll tell you how! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, siding installation, replacing a picture window, repair basement walls to eliminate water coming in, Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've been enjoying a garden harvest this summer and would like to extend the goodness of all year long, preserving your fresh veggies is the way to do it. We'll walk you through 3 options for preserving your harvest! Plus... It’s a great time of year for outdoor projects and if you want to step up your space, we’ve got tips on the easiest and most affordable way to create grill surrounds, fire pits, benches and more by simply stacking blocks. Sidewalks can get slippery, but not if you treat those sidewalks with a simple coating. Tips on a concrete treatment that protects you and loved ones from falls, coming up. Temperatures are nice now, but in a few months, you’ll want nothing less than to have to bundle up, head outdoors and deal with a home improvement problem in the dead of winter. We’ve got a few easy fix-ups you can take on now that can potentially save you a major repair hassle later. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, hiring an engineer, roof underlayment products, eliminating chipmunks, energy saving windows, installing attic insulation, relocating downspouts to eliminate flooding. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When you decide to bring home a family pet, there can be lots of changes. Your home decor, however, shouldn’t be one of them! If you’re pondering any decorating or improvement projects, we’ll have tips to help make them pet-friendly. Plus, Whether it's around your sink, between your tub, shower and tile walls – nasty, worn caulk has got to go. We’ve got DIY tips on how to get this job done the easy way. Changing up lighting can give a new look to any room! We’ve got tips on installing energy efficient pendant lights for an easy DIY update. When it comes to outside cleaning, a pressure washer is one tool that gets the job done. We’ll share how to pick the perfect pressure washer for all of your cleaning projects. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, soundproofing a basement, staining a deck, getting rid of carpenter bees, prepping a door before repainting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re sitting on a stash of leftover latex paint, you have a gold mine when it comes to home decorating. With a little imagination and creative flair, you can use paint leftovers to give your home extra appeal and have lots of fun in the process. Get the tips. Would you believe that nearly a QUARTER of all residential break-ins happen through a first-floor window? Learn how to keep your home safe from burglaries. Stone countertops are both popular AND expensive. But we’ve got a trick of the trade to share on how to get a granite counter makeover WITHOUT spending a lot. One laundry hazard is responsible for 32,000 calls to poison control. We’ll share how to keep kids safe. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about hiring a public insurance adjuster, installing spray foam insulation, choosing a kitchen sink, repairing a stove that doesn’t heat quickly. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Improving your bathroom is one of best ways to add value and appeal to your home. But if you think those improvements have to be costly, think again – there are plenty of ways to give your bathroom a lift without breaking the bank. We share bath updates you can get done for under $100 bucks. If you’re looking for more storage space, finishing an attic is a popular remodeling project that delivers a great ROI - IF it’s done right. We’ll walk you through the options. Entryways like mudrooms and foyers are used by every member of the family, not to mention houseguests. We’ll share cool organization ideas for getting all those shoes, umbrellas and jackets off the floor.  Get tips on the least expensive ways to replace a bathroom floor. Find out how to stop a high-efficiency washing machine from vibrating across the floor. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, universal bathroom design, getting rid of carpenter bees, replacement window options, refinishing a tub, roof options for flat roof Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re hoping to sell your home, one of the most nerve-racking parts of that process for sellers is the home inspection. Tom & Leslie share tips to set you up for success in that part of the transaction. Hardwood floors are one of the most desirable floors around for both durability and the value they add to a home. But the finishes do wear and hardwood floors then need to be sanded and refinished. We’ll have tips on how to get that project done. And we’re all about helping you find ways to save money, and that includes your homeowner’s insurance. Well, it turns out some small improvements can help cut insurance costs down to size. We’ll share those tips just ahead. Step-by-step tips for refinishing bedroom using lacquer for a high gloss style. Tips on how to find replacement parts for old doorknobs and locks. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing leaky roofs, fixing drywall pops, installing porch carpet, repairing dips in a driveway, basement leaks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you'd love to have a backyard pool but can't afford it, don't have the time to care for it or you’re just short of backyard space, we have two words for you: Spool Pool! Tom & Leslie share tips on how you can combine the benefits of a pool and spa in one very refreshing backyard feature. Plus… Decorative window shutters are an attractive addition to your home’s exterior, but they won’t do a thing to actually protect your windows. For that job, you’ll need STORM shutters. We’ll share the options. Paint offers one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform a space. And it seems so easy, right? Well it is, unless you make one very common painting mistake. Get that secret to painting success just ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about a fix for missing return air ducts, getting stains off composite decks, repairing plaster walls, benefits of an energy audit, rebuilding the “guts” of a toilet.… Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have kids that are old enough to stay home alone? Just because kids may be at an age to stay home alone, that might not prepare them to handle a home-related emergency. We’ll have a checklist on what they need to know to do, just ahead. Plus In the OLDEN DAYS when you needed to hire a contractor, you use to ask friends or flip through though the phone book. Today it’s a lot easier to find home service pros. We’ll pry open the digital toolbox and share some tips and tricks. Summer is a season when we put a lot of stress on our electrical systems. We’ll share three projects that can help make sure your wiring is safe and up for the job. Are you thinking about updating a room but don’t know where to begin? Interior designers help to facilitate your ideas, making your dream home a reality. We share tips on how to find and hire an interior designer that can really understand what you’re looking for and bring great ideas to the table. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, converting electric line to gas, hiring an electrician for small repairs, attic spray insulation, preparing walls before painting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This time of year, limits on outdoor water use and lead to lawns that look like a dry wasteland! Tom & Leslie tell you what you need to know to conserve water and still have a beautiful lawn during a drought, including the one thing to never do if you want That lawn to come back quickly. Plus… If you are lucky enough to have a built-in pool, you may not feel quite as lucky when you have the pay to pay the bills to heat that pool. We’ll tell you how you can use a FREE energy source to heat your pool and extend the swimming season. If you’re thinking about taking on a tile project this, choosing the right look is only a part of the project. We’ll have tips on how to choose the best TYPE of tile for your project. And we settle a bet on which way ceiling fans should be spinning in summer (they’re reversible!) Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, insulating under a house, eliminating thousand leg spiders, determining foundation cracks, venting an attic, when to stain a new deck. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you overflowing with yard tools, pool toys, lawn chairs or kid bikes? Then you might ready to build a Shed! Whether you want to store the overflow or create the perfect man cave or a she shed -- Shed projects are more popular than EVER! We’ll have pro tips to help you do it right. Have you ever noticed that summer rainstorms can be really stir up some damage? Between the blackouts and the lightning, electrical damage, leaks and flood are not all that uncommon. We’ll have tips on what you should be doing to make sure your house is storm ready. And after a couple of months of heavy grilling, your gas grill may need an extreme makeover of its own. We will have tips for a simple mid-season grill cleaning to step up the sizzle! With more time at home, finding activities to keep the kids busy and productive can be a challenge. But that makes now an opportune time to teach them a few home improvement skills with home improvement projects kids love being a part of. We’ll share some ideas. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a metal roof, getting rid of bees, cork flooring options, cleaning worn ceramic tile, cleaning a wood deck. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it comes to home renos, are you a DIY or Go Pro kind of home improver? A new survey reveals how many DIYrs are actually doing home projects vs hiring prosand an interesting trend among the youngest home improvers. Plus… Does your yard double as an all-you-can-eat buffet for deer and wildlife?We’ve got some humane ideas for stopping all the chomping. Motion detector spotlights are a great addition to your home for both convenience and security. Thanks to LED technology, they are easy to install than ever and some don’t even have to be wired. We’ll share the brightest security options All the high-end products in the world can’t undo the effects of hard water on your hair, clothes and dishes.Find out which water softeners can help. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, replacing a flat roof with decking, proper installation of AC window units, eliminating pet odors, installing a pocket door, septic system inspections. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re feeling like your home could use a boost in its cooling power, adding awindow air conditioner unit may be the solution. We’ve got tips on how to find the right size unit for your house and how to avoid a key installation mistake that can drive up cooling costs. There’s an old saying that good fences make great neighbors – that is if you can get the fence built! We’ll have some fence building tips to make that project a lot easier. Going green can help you save energy, but a new survey shows it can also bring you more green when you sell your home – we’ll share these eco-friendly remodeling tips, just ahead. If you’ve ever bought a custom upholstered headboard you know that they can be pricey but making one on your own doesn’t cost a lot of money and is super easy to tackle in a surprisingly short amount of time. Leslie walks you through the project. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, unclogging a slow tub drain, installing a coy pond, cleaning terrazzo floors, repairing a dishwasher, footings for deck posts. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Creating a beautiful living space outdoors doesn’t require walls or a ceiling, just a beautiful floor. We’ve got tips on how to create the perfect patio. Plus… Now that we’re knee deep in the AC season, we’re also knee-deep in high electric bills! We’ve got 5 low-cost and no-cost improvements you can make to lower cooling costs with giving up comfort. Plus, do you know the easiest door to break into for any house? It’s usually the garage door! We’ll tell you why and share the surprisingly simple home securitysteps you can take to secure that entry. Can you ever have too much closet space? If it comes at the expense of a small bedroom – maybe! We work through the numbers and share tips to get the most closet space from tight quarters. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a curtain drain, best composite decking, repairing trim, regulating shower temperature. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Remodeling your kitchen is a project that adds value to your home, but it can also get pretty expensive. We’ve got 3 kitchen renos you can get done for under a thousand bucks to add style and convenience without draining your bank account! Plus… Moving into an apartment doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your décor desires. We’ll have simple apartment decorating ideas that will make your apartment feel like home AND still make sure you get that security deposit back at the end of your lease. Saving water becomes more and more important this time of year. But rather than rely on your kids and family to use less water, WaterSense fixtures can actually do the water saving for you! We’ll tell you how to find faucets, toilets, showers and sprinklers that can do the job, without wasting water. Dishwashers make life easier, but could your dishwasher be shortening the life of the dishes it’s cleaning? We share 4 things never to place in that marvelous cleaning machine. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating smoke odors, installing proper drainage behind a retaining wall, eliminating weeds, installing an indoor pool, repair or replace a leaky roof Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Porches are the perfect space to enjoy the outdoors, relax and even visit with neighbors from a socially acceptable distance! This may be why front porches are making a big comeback and we’ve got tips on how you can make the most of yours! Plus… With generally blistering heat across the nation, are you wondering how to avoid having your yard turn into a dead, dry wasteland? We’ll have the tips on how you can conserve water, restore dead patches and still have a beautiful lawn in summer including the ONE thing you should never do! Have you ever found a leak after a major rainstorm but just can’t seem to pinpoint where it’s coming from? We’ll share some tricks of the trade to help you find the sources of roof leaks BEFORE they lead to any serious damage. Dishwashers do a great job of cleaning your dishes but dishwashers can turn stinky quickly if they are not properly maintained. We walk you through that project.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about installing a dedicated electrical outlet, making an attic space livable, repairing a popcorn ceiling, getting rid of grubs in your lawn, repairing a sticking door. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is your to-do list getting longer every day? Get tips for tackling several projects at once and save money at the same time! Plus If you’ve ever installed ceramic tile, you know that one of the hassles is dealing with the adhesive. Now there’s a much simpler way to install tile – and it can be done without glue, and lets you grout immediately. Is this the year you’re ready to replace leaky or drafty windows? With so many competing claims of efficiency, it can be difficult to select windows that work well and save you money. Get tips on the best way to get that project done and be able to enjoy year-round energy savings. if you do a lot of home improving you are likely to have a collection of leftover paint – and with a little imagination and creative flair, we show you uses for leftover paint to give your home extra appeal. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, roof repair, finding the leak, cleaning adhesive off the floor, repairing a tub crack, keeping pesty squirrels out of birdhouses, preparing soil for a lawn. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With all the humidity, it’s that time of year when doors swell and get stuck in their openings. We’ve got the easy fix for sticking doors. Plus. Before you can add the new you have to get rid of the old – and that can often be a costly part of any home renovation. We’ll share tips to help lighten the load and cut demolition costs And we’ll have the how to on a fun garden project – building a raised landscaping wall that useful for creating a ring around a tree or raised garden wall to dress up the front of your home. Ready to step up your home’s first impression? We walk you through how-to fix up your wood floors with a fresh coat of finish. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about building a firepit, replacing baseboard heating covers, cleaning jacuzzi jets, leveling floors, how prevent basement flooding by correcting surround of foundation. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This can be a challenging time for many things and that includes selling your house! If you are planning to do that this summer, Tom and Leslie share the key improvements that need to get done first to nail a quick sale at the highest possible price. Plus… This summer, most of us will be spending more time at home and enjoying our outdoor spaces. And for DIY’rs, there’s more interest than ever in updating and maintaining lawns. We get expert tips to help from the team at Troy-Built, a company that’s has been around since 1927 -- when they invented the first gas powered rototiller (and if you are a gardener you are probably sure glad they did!)  Wet basements are a problem all across the United States, in every climate and every type of home. But while many people think that fixing leaky or damp basement is expensive and complicated – it’s NOT! The easy fix is just ahead. One fun kitchen project that can deliver a big impact AND get done in a single weekend, is a new kitchen backsplash. We share ideas on how to do that with tile. Plus, we answer your home improvement questions about, replacing shower parts, eliminating basement moisture, determining roof leaks, removing moss from your roof. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Renting your first apartment is a big step that’s both exciting and terrifying all at the same time! Tom & Leslie share expert tips on what to look for before signing a lease to make sure you get all your security deposits back. Plus.. If you love gardening and landscaping, you might not think there’s much new to know about one of the most common landscaping tools – the shovel. Well, all shovels are not created equal, we’ll explain how they’re made and how to spot a good shovel from a piece of junk. If your concrete sidewalks, steps or patio are showing signs of cracks – now would be a great time to get those sealed up while the weather is warm. We’ll have tips on how to what products really stick meaning you won’t have to make the repair again and again, and which won’t – just ahead. When it comes to choosing materials for home improvements, building materials that need little to ZERO maintenance is definitely the preferred way to go! We share tips for products that virtually take care of themselves. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, about eliminating mold from decks, kitchen cabinets, determining if a bearing wall is holding up your design plans, broken seals on windows, which type of paint is best for which project. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With summer thunderstorms, blackouts are becoming more common – which is why now is a good time to think about adding a whole house generator. The costs have come down and the convenience can’t be beat. We’ll share the options and how to find the right size unit for your home just ahead If you’re looking for an easy and inexpensive way to transform the look of your kitchen, applying a decorative stone surface to your countertop can do just that. We talk with an expert that’s spent decades developing these DIY finishes for countertops, floors and even pool decks. Childproof or tamper resistant outlets have come a long way, and they can help keep kids safe in the home – but even adults from a dangerous accident, we’ll explain the updates. Make the most of our outdoor living space by really turning it into a spare room. We walk you through some really easy and fun ways to do just that! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, painting porch posts, basement floor options, getting rid of squirrels, repair or replace wood deck, resurface or rip out asphalt driveway. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer marks the riskiest time of year for pool drownings, which is actually the leading cause of death to young children! In this episode, expert hosts Tom & Leslie explain the best way to backup parental supervision and keep kids safe. It’s a pool safety approach called layers of protection. Plus… Replacing your front door is a project that can increase your home’s value and increase its curb appeal. We’ll share tips on how to get that project done. If you’re ready for an easy indoor décor project, adding new blinds can be just that. But when you measure your windows to order, there are two mounting options to consider; inside vs outside mount. Both look great but one may be a better choice for you. We’ll tell you how to decide. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, things to consider before purchasing a house, preparing a small garden in your backyard, best flooring for a garage, installing dimmer switches, toilet replacement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Building codes exist to keep your family safe, but only if you or your contractor follow them! Tom & Leslie have tips on how to avoid the THREE most commonly violated codes. Plus, if you’ve noticed that your walks, porches or patios look a bit worn – we’ll tell you how to resurface those at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Do you have a small backyard and looking to make the most of your minimal outdoor living space? One trendy addition can make a huge difference. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, cutting down a tree, installing a handicapped ramp, repairing a shower pan, whether or not to get a home inspection before purchasing a home. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you ready to buy a bigger and better air conditioner to keep cool this summer? Well, you may be surprised to learn that bigger is not always better for your comfort. We’ll have tips on how to pick the best one for your home. Plus… Smelly water is a common complaint among homeowners, for good reason: No one wants to drink, cook or clean with water that smells like rotten eggs. We highlight the causes and cure. Summer gives us lots of opportunities to display the red, white and blue. Memorial Day just passed, July 4th is ahead and this weekend we celebrate Flag Day! We’ve got some tips to help you hang and display your flag. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about how to install brick pavers, repairing a linoleum floor, getting rid of termites, dryer venting options, is solar energy worth it? Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The right deck design can make your home appear larger than it is – which is why adding a backyard deck can actually increase your home’s value. Tom & Leslie have tips on how to choose a deck design that works for you. Plus… Squeaks, creaks, drips, bangs and hisses – are all noises your house makes, but have you ever wondered what’s behind them? We’ll tell you how to sniff out and silence the most common house noises and whether those noises might signal a bigger problem needing a fix. Do you want to contribute to a sustainable environment and maybe even save a few bucks along the way? If your answer to those questions is “Yes,” then reclaimed lumber may be the perfect fit for your next home improvement project! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing molding, which plants are good for shady areas, cleaning rust stains off a patio, shifting foundation, installing a whole house dehumidifier. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a great time of year for outdoor living and if you want to step up your space, we’ve got tips on how you can build your very own fire pit!  Want a garden that not only looks good, but also serves an important purpose? Bees, hummingbirds and butterflies are all pollinators and play a big role in plant reproduction. Tom & Leslie have tips on how you can create a pollinator garden to give these creatures a place to carry out their good work! Are you ready to fire up your AC to keep cool and comfortable this summer? Well, there are three things you should do FIRST to make sure your system is good to go for the warm season ahead. When summer heat sets in, your lawn may suffer. We have tips on how to keep lawns healthy through summer drought. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, whether or not to replace plumbing supply lines, preparing your roof for a metal roof installation, repair cracking grout, refinishing bar stools, getting rid of feral cats Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you ready to do one final cleanup of your garage before the summer kicks into full swing? Tom & Leslie share simple garage organization tips, plus: Have you needed to crank your AC yet? If not - great because there are 3 things you should do first - to make sure it’s set to keep you cool and comfortable all Summer long. The pandemic has changed the way we do many things, and that is certainly true when it comes to how we find and choose contractors to take on the projects we don’t want to do ourselves. We’ll share 5 questions to ask your contractor. If you’d like hang some photos or shelves, but prefer to avoid creating holes in your walls – we’ll walk you through how to hang pictures without holes do just that without damaging your walls. Feel like your home improvement headaches are on repeat? We’ve got tips to avoid the how-to déjà vu by doing them right the first time around.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about , cleaning a brick fireplace wall, how to polish marble, eliminating bees, repair or replace a dishwasher, steps for eliminating paint from peeling. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a big episode for The Money Pit. Its show #2,000 and we can’t thank you enough for allowing us to help you make your home the best they can possibly be! Not all home imp projects require an entire weekend to get done! We’ve got 3 -30-minute home improvement hacks that can help you save time, energy and make your space look great! Do you love your dog -- but not so much having to get up in the middle of the night to let the dog out? We have tips on how to install a pet door that your pet can actually open, close and LOCK themselves – without human intervention or risk of unwanted wildlife using that same entry! New window treatments are a fast way to stepping up the décor in any room. But if that if you’re working in a child’s room, it’s important to choose a design that keep kids safe. We’ll share tips, just ahead. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, hot water heater valve replacement, eliminating ants, peeling paint, tracing electrical wiring, best coating for tile floors. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have an old, faded plastic playset in your backyard? By giving it a coat of fresh paint, you can bring it back to life – it’s easy IF you use the right materials. We’ll walk through this project. Plus… With all the time we’re spending at home these days, the wear and tear shows on us, as well as our houses! And when stuff breaks, we need to be able to find the right glue to fix it fast and sometimes, that can be a real challenge. We’ll share tips on a new product that can set you up for an easy, reliable fix. If you need to cut a tree, firewood, or even landscape timbers, a chain saw can make quick work of that project. But while gas chain saws are costly, noisy to use, and require a big commitment every year to keep them clean and running well -- cordless chain saws can deliver just as much power without the hassles. We’ll share tips on what to look for when choosing a cordless chainsaw. Taking your off-season clothing out of storage and turn into a huge disappointment if you find that they have been ravaged by insects or moths. Leslie's got a timeless solution you can build yourself. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, installing central air conditioning, cleaning moss from a roof, replacing a worn roof and installing ridge vents, prepare cement flooring for epoxy. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to grow your own home remedies, right in your backyard? Well walk you through easy to grow herbs for surprisingly effective herbal medicines. Plus… Backyard honeybee hives are becoming a huge trend. We’ll tell you what all the buzz is about coming up. Over the winter – the combination of road salt and freezing weather, can do some real damage to concrete steps, walks, patios or driveways leaving them looking old, worn and just plain dull. We’ll review a solution to restore cracked concrete surfaces that’s easy to do. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about painting outdoor wood columns, getting rid of carpenter bees, cleaning mold from tubs and sink backsplash, best way to venting an attic, stain options for a cedar deck, and ideas for basement flooring. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you noticed that your allergies are particularly bad this year? Well it turns out that quarantines can actually make allergies worse! Learn why from one of the nation's best experts on indoor air quality. Plus, learn some places allergens hide we guarantee you never would have thought of! Also in this episode. Want to improve your outdoor space by adding an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, grill enclosure, planters or even a bench? We share a way to do that which is as easy as stacking blocks! If you threw open your windows for fresh air and then choked on the dust that came off…you may have noticed your shades need a bit of attention! When it comes to Spring cleaning, cellular or pleated shades often get ignored because they’re delicate. Tom & Leslie share tricks-of-the-trade to clean shades without damaging them. If you’re moving into a new house soon, painting is one really important thing to do after you buy it and before you move in. Plus, as the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t! We share a painting product that manufacturers claimed to last decades – but doesn’t. Plus, a new class of durable deck painting products that come as close to those claims as possible, and can drastically improve the look of old, worn decks and docks. All that along with answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing a sump pump, purchasing chemical free cabinets, installing radiant flooring, plans for garage conversion. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve been sprucing up your landscaping, avoiding high-maintenance plants that require constant pruning or suffer from pest problems is key. We’ve got tips on how to select a reliable, trouble free shrubs to spruce up your outdoor living spaces and your outlook! Plus, going green in your kitchen isn’t limited to veggies -- earth-friendly countertops can lend plenty of green as well. We’ll share which materials are Mother Nature’s favorites, coming up. Painting is one of the most popular projects right now, but painting outside places like walls, garage doors, decks and fences can be particularly challenging. We tested a new line of a new paint sprayers that make those projects easier and will let you know what we found. Have you ever had a cracked wall that needs fixing over and over again? This can be even worse when the cracked wall is made of plaster. We’ll share a neat piece of hardware that cost pennies and can stop those cracks once and for all.   Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing a cracked foundation wall, insulating a garage ceiling, cleaning cement off a garage floor, replacing a patio door, options for ventilating an attic, restoring a quartz countertop. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Having a small yard or living in an apartment is no reason to give up on the idea of your very own garden, though. Urban and other small space gardeners are making use of containers and vertical space to grow crops like tomatoes, radishes, lettuce and other greens — we’ll show you how. Plus… ·        There are many, many things for your home that can be delivered in a box. A beautiful lawn however, is not one of them! But now there’s a service that delivers everything you need to grow a beautiful and earth friendly lawn – in a BOX! We’ll explain. ·        Have you ever pulled out gross dishes at the end of a dishwasher cycle that remained layered with last night’s dinner? The problem might be the way the machine is loaded. Get tips to end dirty dish do-overs! ·        Is your dog’s favorite pastime digging holes in the yard?  Well, your favorite pastime DOES NOT have to include filling them!  Learn how to stop dogs from doing their own form of landscaping. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating flies, repairing tub cracks, installing ice & water shield, building a garage foundation, fixing a squeaky floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Outdoor living spaces have never been more popular -- and that includes outdoor kitchens. But cooking and dining outside require special recipes of their own. Tom and Leslie have tips for designing an amazing outdoor kitchen. Plus… Spring cleaning isn’t just for indoor rooms. Now is also the time to spruce up a favorite outdoor room—your deck, we’ll have some deck cleaning tips later on in the show. Between bad weather, and more deliberate forms of vandalism, mailboxes can take a real beating! We’ll have tips on how to how to build a mailbox that can stand the test of time. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating odors from wood floors, painting a bathroom, cleaning rust stains from a toilet, creating a decorative wall, gutter guards are they worth it? exterior brick options. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’d like to take on one home décor project that you can really spruce up a room, new blinds are the ticket. Not only do they make your place look better, they can save you energy in both winter and summer. Tom & Leslie share how you can get this entire project done, without ever leaving home! Also ahead… ·        While most of us have been hunkered down inside for weeks, the wear and tear on your house may be more evident than ever. New floors can help give you a fresh start and installing most is a DIY project. We’ll highlight the most popular spring flooring trends to inspire your creative spirit. ·        Spring is officially here…which means bugs are on their way. But you don’t need to fill your home with unhealthy chemicals just to get rid of them. Coming up, natural pest control solutions that are effective, and more importantly, safe. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing spray foam insulation, countertop options, eliminating flies, and tree roots. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the weather finally getting nicer, are you thinking of family-friendly outdoor activities for you and your little ones? Creating a kid-friendly garden is a great way to get the whole family involved in a fun project. Tom & Leslie tell you how to get things growing! Plus, Of all the cleaning questions we get, how to clean a hardwood floor takes the lead. It’s a tough spot to keep clean with all the dirt that gets tracked in, and it’s also one where you can’t use a lot of water without potentially ruining the wood floor itself. We’ll have tips to get those floors squeaky clean. And if you’re taking on a painting project while stuck at home, don’t toss that used paintbrush. We’ll share easy tips to get it clean and save yourself the hassles on buying new one. Bathtub vs Shower Stall: If you're thinking about bath remodeling, we look into which one gives you the best ROI. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about clearing clogged pipes, painting over water stains, filing in log cabin cracks, applying a deck stain that doesn’t fade, skylight options, fixing low water pressure, repairing an asphalt driveway and more! Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it’s time to pull out your outdoor furniture, it’s also time to give it a good cleaning! Tom & Leslie have tips on how best to clean and prepare the furniture so it’s ready for a fresh start this Spring, plus.... ·        There’s nothing that wears out a floor faster than the dirt and grime that everyone drags in on their feet. But cleaning wood floors is a challenge because wood absorbs moisture and can warp or twist or grow mold if it gets too wet. We’ll have tips on how do keep those hardwood floors clean without damaging them. ·        And if you have been getting just a bit tired of staring at your walls while we’re all stuck at home with this quarantine, painting a room is really the easiest way to spruce things up. There’s a new high-tech paint that makes interior painting easier than ever. We’ll share that tip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, fix a creaking roof, eliminating carpenter bees, installing yard drainage, insulating a garage, painting vinyl siding, avoid peeling deck paint. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Well, the quarantine has not been good for many industries but the Wall Street Journal reports that one is actually doing quite well. Any guesses? It’s the JIGSAW PUZZLE INDUSTRY! If you’ve caught a case of cabin fever, then adding a game room may be the answer you’re searching for stay at home entertainment! Tom & Leslie tell you how to get this project started. Plus… ·       Building a garden wall is a project that that’s fun to build on a beautiful Spring day—We’ll share tips on how to build a stone wall that will stand the test of time. ·       If your lawn and garden need a trim around the bed or fence, a string trimmer is a great tool to help you do just that. But if you use it wrong, even more weeds might grow. We’ll have tips. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about preparing wood windows for painting, refinishing engineered wood floors, installing plaster ceilings, removing adhesive from wood flooring, are solar panels safe, repair a foundation that is sinking.                                                                                                     Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Could germs actually be lurking in your laundry? It may seem counterintuitive, but for the health, safety and cleanliness of your family, it’s important to actually wash your washing machine. Tom & Leslie tell you how to deep clean your machines, just ahead. Plus... Summer is only a few weeks away when air conditioning will be a big part of our comfort plan. But when it comes to AC, the refrigerant that we’ve relied on for decades, known as “freon” has now been banned by the EPA! We’ll talk through your options for a cool and comfortable home. It may not be your favorite household chore – but mowing your lawn is an important part of making sure it looks good and stays healthy. But there is a right and wrong way to cut your grass. We’ll share that tip. And can repairing a cracked foundation be a DIY project? The answer is – Maybe! We’ll share what you can do to fix a foundation crack, and let you know when it’s time to call in a pro. Plus get answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a pressure balancing valve, steam clean carpets to eliminate odors, repairing bathroom faucets, clean adhesive from tile floor. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If one of your favorite foods (or your kid’s favorite!) is pizza, imagine being able to grow all of your favorite pizza toppings right in your backyard? You can if you grow your own Pizza Garden. We’ll share tips on how to do just that. Plus For a home to be healthy, it has to breathe. That’s why ventilation is important! But if your home is energy efficient it - could potentially be too airtight for healthy living? They CAN and often DO require extra ventilation to maintain a healthy indoor air environment. Tom & Leslie share how insert just the right amount of fresh air without driving up energy costs. If one of your favorite foods (or your kid’s favorite!) is pizza, imagine being able to grow all of your favorite pizza toppings right in your backyard? You can if you grow your own Pizza Garden. We’ll share tips on how to do just that. And with all the time we’ve been spending at home these days, there’s lots and lots of cleaning going on. We’ll share tips on earth-friendly cleaning products that are effective and safe. And if you are ready for a redo, we’ll have tips on how to upcycle old furniture and accent pieces you no longer use to create a fresh new décor for any room in your home. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, chimney liners, repairing loose shingles, electrical sub panel installation, buying new windows, bath remodeling, new options in LED lighting. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you have a green thumb or need to hire out the job, sprucing up your landscaping is a great way to step up your landscaping. Tom & Leslie have tips on how you can create a simple landscape plan to for a beautiful exterior to your home. Plus…  Flu season is upon us and along with all the concerns we have about viruses, do you know the difference between a cleaner, sanitizer and disinfectant? We’ll tell you what you need to know to make sure your home is safe. Garages are spaces where most of us store everything BUT a car! However, these are also places where toys and toxins are often stored side-by side. We’ll have tips to keep this space cleaned, organized and safe. And for those that don’t have garages, we’ll tell you exactly what you need to do to build or buy a storage shed and get it set up for maximum efficiency, Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating carpenter ants, squeaky wood floors, venting dryers, cleaning vinyl siding. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Re-tiling a bathroom is a great way to update the look, function and feel of this space. But if you want to make it last, it’s what goes UNDER the tile that counts. Tom & Leslie share what you need to know. Also… Now that it’s Spring cleaning season, the #1 tool you need to work and work well is your vacuum! If yours just doesn’t have the sucking power it used to – we share troubleshooting tips to get it back in action. Did you know that less than half of all households have the recommended number of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms? We’ll share an update on new detectors that include voice and location alerts for both smoke or carbon monoxide – designed to wake kids better than just alarms, and that have batteries which last for the life of the alarm! Foundation cracks can be a serious problem, but the repair can make it worse if it comes from a contractor instead of a design pro. We’ll walk you through the steps to assess a foundation crack and the steps need to make sure it gets fixed right and doesn’t impact your home’s value. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, rusty water elimination, leveling a cement floor, stains in sinks, venting a bathroom, cleaning bathroom grout Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As you start to spend more time outside, it’s a good time make sure your yard is pet-friendly and safe. We’ll share tips on the must have elements to keep your pets happy, plus the surprisingly common plants to avoid because they can make your dog sick!  just ahead. Plus, ideas on… How to build a greenhouse to help you get a jump on Spring gardening and assure a steady supply of veggies until Fall. We’ll share some DIY options that you can set up in as little as a couple hours. ·        Adding a backyard deck is a great way to increase your home's living space and increase its value. We’ll help you get started with a check list to help you plan the perfect project. ·        If your Spring cleaning includes dirty tile grout, we’ll share secrets to getting back brighter than ever. ·        Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, electrical fixture replacement, bathroom mold elimination, energy audits, microwave replacement, caulking windows Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re looking for a good place to start your Spring cleaning, windows can be just that. Tom & Leslie share tips on a streak free cleaner you can mix yourself. Plus: ·        If you’re planning on hiring a pro to help get a project done, there’s one extra thing you might want to check before pressing go: making sure you’re not liable if a worker gets hurt at your home! We’ll share how to check that your contractor has the right insurance. ·        Have you noticed that your home seems to trip circuits breakers or fuses more than usual? This might mean it’s time to upgrade your circuit or maybe the entire panel. We’ll share how to know if it’s time for a power upgrade. ·        Laminate flooring is a great, budget friendly option to hardwood. But floor installation is key for a clean look. Get tips to make sure the new floor stays new as long as possible! ·        Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, programmable thermostat installation, replacing a roof, deck options, squeaky floor fixes, granite sealing. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wintertime is when most home fires occur - so if you’re a renter, the time to insure your possessions is now. Discover a few small upgrades that pay off big for houseguests. Learn how to install and customize a security system before you head out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Spring is a season where we like to get kids busy outside, especially since they have been cooped up indoors most of the winter. But warmer weather is also the most dangerous time of year for child-aged accidents. In this episode, Tom & Leslie have smart safety tips for this potentially hazardous season. Plus… Learn a very earth-friendly way to clean and disinfect surfaces though your house like countertops, walls and floors to eliminate the risk of viruses hanging out. You may know what good case of sunburn can do to your skin, but have you ever thought about what those harsh rays can do to your home? Sunlight can fade furniture and floors, raise energy costs. We’ll tell you about a way you can shut out the damaging rays with just the push of a button. If you are considering selling your home in the next few months, begin now with some easy updates to your curb appeal. We share easy ideas to get that done. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, venting a dryer, painting a log cabin, installing a whole house generator, installing vinyl tile, installing a ridge vent Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve got a deck, warmer weather means BBQ’s and parties may be just ahead. But before the crowd arrives, Tom & Leslie share FIVE SIGNS to watch for that could signal your deck may be ready to collapse! Plus: ·        Now that it is Spring, it’s like the Goldilocks season – not too hot and not too cold to tackle just about any project inside or out. We’re going to start you off with some easy updates to save money on heating, cooling and lighting just ahead. ·        Spring rains combined with power outages can lead to basement floods! We’ll share tips on a new system that provides complete protection, even when the power goes out. ·        When does a crack go from being a minor problem, to a major hassle? We’ll share tips on how to know what to do when you spot cracks in your walls or ceilings. ·        Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, best flooring to use in a kitchen, repair plaster walls, modifying a gas fire pit, stop Woodpeckers attacking a house, and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wouldn’t it be nice if your house could tell you when it’s about to break down – BEFORE it actually breaks down? Well, that technology exists today! It’s called predictive maintenance and is sort of like a check engine light for your car! Tom & Leslie tell you all about it – plus Nothing says Spring like throwing open the windows and breathing some fresh Spring air! But if your screens are filthy, you just might be sucking in something not quite so fresh! We’ll share a formula for quick and easy screen cleaning just ahead!  Battery powered tools are more popular than ever, but can they really compete when it comes to lawn & garden tools like mowers and chainsaws? We’ll dig in to the answer. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing marble countertops, replace water softener line, cleaning adhesive off concrete, installing a vapor barrier, adding insulation to ceiling in addition. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we move closer to spring, we move closer to spring storms which can bring on MOLD! But is getting rid of mold a DIY project or one that requires the specialized skills of a Pro? The answer is – it depends. We’ll share DIY tips to help clear the air, just ahead. Plus:    And with all the concerns now about viruses it’s a good time to think about the products we to disinfect our homes, because all disinfectants are not created equal. We’ll share tips on a product that is hospital grade and earth friendly. And if you are planning some for some early Spring plants, mulch is a great insulator – but put on too much, and you’ll suffocate the growth. We’ll walk you through the best practices, in a little bit. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions, should you purchase a service contract for your water heater, how to remove wall paneling, repairing a burn in countertop, building raised beds, choosing an efficient AC unit, clearing drains of clogs. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adding a backyard deck is one sure-fire way to increase your home’s living space but is building a deck a DIY project? Tom & Leslie share some guidelines. Plus… Do you have really long room in your home that’s about as appealing to decorate as a bowling alley? Learn a few painting tricks and furniture tweaks for the layout, that will leave you with a room that feels cozy and comfortable. Do your electrical circuit breakers of fuses trip more than they should? If so, it may be your electrical service panel isn’t up to snuff. We walk you through five signs that show when it’s time to UPGRADE your service panel for your safety – and your sanity! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, installing a trench drain, eliminating sink odors, stopping squeaky wood floors, repairing bowing basement walls, cleaning rusty tub stains, clean tips for wood paneling, installing an installing a programmable thermostat. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you’re creating a kid’s room for a new arrival or updating a space for kids who insist they’re not little anymore, working on a child’s room can be a fun, creative adventure. Tom and Leslie walk through the key design considerations for this important space. Plus… Spring showers and melting snow can leave your yard a soggy mess. We show you how to dry up those wet and soggy yards so you can enjoy them all spring and summer long. Basements are one place that get damp and can become hard to finish. But an ingenious new floor product can put some distance between you and the damp – we’ll share that tip. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions including, clothes dryer that don’t dry, cracked door frames, installing split ductless heating and A/C, pros of laminate flooring, water damaged ceilings,  cleaning rusty water stains and plaster wall repair. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, it’s easier than ever to be eco-friendly. But when it comes to choosing eco-friendly floors for your home, understanding how the product is produced is key. Tom & Leslie explain what to look for. Plus: ·        As you look around your home, are cracks, holes, and nail pops taking away from your otherwise well-maintained space? away your home’s age? Tips on how to fix them yourself. ·        It may still be chilly out, but Spring is ahead which makes now is a good time to think about investing in a much better alternative, a new cordless lawnmower. We’ll highlight new cordless technology so advanced it can run a lawnmower for 60 minutes on a single charge and is self-propelled! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, fastening an awning to a brick building, choosing an AC unit, eliminating rust stains from well water, installing a bed in a truck, eliminating crickets and other bugs in the home, eliminating moisture in the bathroom. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you love the look of hardwood on your floors, you might not realize that this same product can be used to create a beautiful accent wall. Tom and Leslie have tips for this project, plus: Has this ever happened to you…you’re in the middle of drying your hair and the power goes out! Well, circuit breakers trip for a reason… we’ll tell you WHY these devices keep you safe and WHAT to do if they keep tripping. If you know the age of your home, you can stay ahead of problems common to its vintage, we’ll explain the many ways to figure out how old your house is and what to expect given the decade it was built. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about pin holes in copper lines, using epoxy on basement floors, securing staircases, installing dimmer switches, removing wall paneling. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kitchen countertops are often the most heavily used work surfaces in the home. But did you know that with a few changes, you can make those surfaces work harder for you instead of the other way around? Tom & Leslie share THREE ways to improve countertops to make them easier to use. Plus… A new survey by Lending Tree show single women are far outpacing men in homeownership. We’ll share those surprising stats and explore the reasons behind the trend. Turning your master bedroom into a luxurious master suite is generally a great way to add value and style. But a common bedroom remodeling mistake can make the effort worthless! We’ll walk you through what to do to spike up both the luxury and the value just ahead. Phone booths have become a thing of the past but a new type of phone booth has emerged that has major companies, malls and rec spaces giving this a 2nd look. We’ll share the cool new designs you’ll start to see popping up. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, eliminating basement mold, temporary fix for leaky windows, insulating a garage door, shifting foundations, space heater efficiency, engineered wood flooring in a basement. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the saying goes, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and that’s certainly true when it comes to the choices Americans make in home décor. Tom & Leslie share results of a new survey where Americans voted on the worst home décor choices in the last 50 years – and yes, we have a winner! All that plus, If building a new deck is a project for your Spring to-do list, learn the ups and downs of building deck steps, which are often built to be unsafe! You’ll learn how to how to make sure they’re solid and safe. If you’re ready for new flooring, now’s a great time, with many manufacturers holding early Spring sales. But with dozens of choices in both real and look alike hardwood, how do you know what floor will perform best for your home? We’ll share the options, money saving tips and more to help you figure it all out. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, kitchen lighting options, deck sealers, required GFI outlets in kitchen, skylight options, installing a whole house air filter, fixing nail pops, replacing a bathroom fan. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your family is like most, you probably use the garage as much as your front door for access and security. But if your door is old and worn, it could not only be unsafe, it could also be providing easy access for intruders when you are away. Learn tips to update your garage door, plus...        Would you do anything to avoid shoveling snow again? We’ve got a serious driveway solution for anyone who’s had enough shoveling for one lifetime.       Here’s an idea we can get behind: Better toilet seats. From comfier to cleaner, there are plenty of affordable upgrades out there for your throne. We’ll highlight some of the latest innovations Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, repairing cracks in a concrete driveway, installing baseboard trim, removing wallpaper, how to test a house for radon gas , changing over from oil to gas heat, how to fix a sticking front door. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have champagne home makeover dreams on a beer budget? We’ve got tips on 7 home remodeling projects you can do with less than a thousand bucks, coming up.  Plaster walls are common in older homes – but cracks are almost as common after decades of settling. We’ll share a trick of the trade to make repairing those plaster cracks easy and fast. And, just because you are a renter, doesn’t mean you can’t make changes to cut heating costs in your home or apartment. We’ve got solutions to solve your energy problems… including some that you can even take with you when it’s time to move on! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about cutting a shelf to fit wall space, installing a vent duct, removing ugly wallpaper, repairing wall cracks, and getting rid of hot water heater noises, and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve got an active household, your furniture is likely to take a few hits from time to time - especially if you have kids! We’ve got tips to make water rings, dings, dents and scratches disappear, plus…   We all know power tools can hurt you in an instant, but are yours causing slow, serious harm over time? We’ll highlight a health risk among DIYers that’s got medical experts talking.  Bathtubs can last a lifetime, but their finishes won’t! The good news is you don’t have to get rid of the whole tub just because of a worn finish. We’ll have tub refinishing tips. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, window replacement options, eliminating trash odors, installing a proper tile floor, paint peeling off walls after a few months, installing chain link fence post, modular home installation.. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If there’s one room you’d like to be bright and cheery, it’s the kitchen! We’ll have tips on lighting to keep that space looking bright – even when it’s dark outside. Plus… If winter storms and the power outages, they bring have you considering a generator, we’ve got tips to help you pick the best type of generator for your home.  Ready to take on some home improvement projects, but don’t feel you have the time? Not possible! We’ll highlight several projects you can get done in 30 minutes or less! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, storm door heat build up, copper pipes used in a flooring heating system, discharge of a sump pump, ways to lower energy costs, types of lighting for a garage door, installing a wood burning stove where one never existed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shower heads with built in speakers, water heaters that detect leaks, and kitchen faucets you can talk and hand showers that deliver aromatherapy to were just some of the many cool new home products we spotted at the 2020 International Builders Show. We’ll have a full report, plus: If you’ve been feeling the chill of high heating bills, the best way to lower costs and warm things up is by adding extra insulation.  We’ll share the areas of your home where insulation delivers the best ROI, and the very common insulation mistake that many home improvers make that ruins your energy efficiency. Is your kitchen backsplash falling behind the times? Adding a new one can be a fun DIY project you could tackle in a weekend.  We’ll share backsplash ideas and materials are up-and-coming, affordable, and fun. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about, a sinking kitchen floor, patching a popcorn ceiling, repairing electric water heater lines, what products to use to clean deck and stones, removing wallpaper, sealers for concrete porch installing ceramic faux wood tiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It may still be chilly out, but Spring is ahead and a time we can look forward to warm weather, birds chirping - and the sounds and smells of loud gas-powered lawn equipment! Get tips on a new battery technology that can deliver plenty of lawn mowing power, without the hassle. Plus… ·        A gorgeous banister and a dramatic new post can add a stylish look to your stairs. But years of manhandling can lead to shaky stairs and loose railings. Learn the easy fix. ·        If you’ve been chipping away a lot of ice this winter, we’ll have a trick of the trade to help make it disappear, especially when it freezes a garage door shut. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about installing compact fluorescent lighting, repairing a crumbling foundation, adding heat to an addition, metal roof advantages, eliminating sink odors, when to add insulation to the attic and what anti slip paint to use on decks... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Need some extra prep space in your kitchen? Tom & Leslie share tips for adding kitchen islands, even in small spaces, and more including: How to upcycle furniture for your kitchen island, including which pieces make the best islands and a trick for having a kitchen island you can move out of the way when the extra space is not needed.When you think of your roof – you don’t necessarily think of designer colors – but color is where it’s at when it comes to your roof.  We highlight the best roof color trends for 2020. Got a dusty house? Get tips on the easiest way to reduce dust build up automatically and cleaning tricks to make even more dust disappear. Building a driveway marker can be a fun and practical DIY project that can step up your curb appeal and improve home safety. Learn a few DIY tips for building that project. Plus, get answers to home improvement questions about getting rid of mice in your attic, installing ceiling lights without holes, hiring an electrician for GFI installation, tiling over asbestos floors, best way to install gutters and keep them clean, insulating crawlspaces, uneven heat in the home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever had a paint project that didn’t dry right, wouldn’t cover a stain or peeled off faster than it should have? Tom & Leslie share tips for painting success and more including: Pro painting secrets to avoid brush marks, prevent spills, cut down on the number of trips back to the paint can, stop paint from bleeding through masking tape, and reducing the number of coats of paint you need for a project. Downsizing is a big trend these days – but if living small isn’t for you, get tips on ways to make life simpler – and more affordable – without shrinking your space.  Saving water is important for your budget and the environment. But rather than rely on your kids and family to use less water, learn how updating your plumbing fixtures can actually do the water saving for you! Plus, get answers to home improvement questions about replacing steel window wells, repairing plaster walls, removing leak stains on basement walls, fixing cracked concrete driveways, and restoring shower walls, installing whole house water filters, and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’d love to add more light to your kitchen, there is a new window trend emerging that aims to do just that and in a very unusual way. Tom & Leslie share that tip, plus: The real winter is just beginning, so make sure that your car has an emergency kit at the ready. Get tips on how to properly stock it. Do you ever feel like no matter what you do, you just can’t get your house to be warm enough? We’ve got solutions for heating even the coldest rooms. Do you have a bathroom with tile colors that are decades old? Get makeover tips to update the space without a major makeover Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Got closets that are busting at the seams? We’ve got steps for a simple closet makeover that takes less than an hour or two to get done and will help you find the space you need. Plus: calls about, hiring a professional home inspector when buying a home, cleaning dryer vent and lime deposits, eliminating squirrels in the attic, and removing wallpaper. Keeping heating costs down is usually a lot easier for home heated with gas or oil than for those heated by electricity. We’ll share how new efficiencies in heat pump technology are changing this for the better. You might think a working smoke detector will protect your home and family from a fire. But while that system can provide a critical alert, find out how adding a home sprinkler system could stop the home from actually burning to the ground.  Plus, answers to your questions about best paint, snow blower, cleaning dryer vents, hiring a Professional Home Inspector, eliminating water hammer, and squirrels from the attic, repairing dented wood flooring, removing wallpaper. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have a list of projects to get done but concerned you won’t be able to handle any surprises that come up once walls and floors are all torn up? We teach you how to manage a home improvement project budget that plans for all the possibilities. Plus: Whether your roof leaks, heat goes out or fridge is on the fritz, unexpected repairs are a part of owning a home. We share tips for setting a realistic household budget help you handle the surprises and the expense of emergency repairs.  Stone countertops are both popular AND expensive. But we’ve got a DIY trick of the trade to share on how to get a granite counter makeover WITHOUT spending a lot. As the saying goes, don’t judge a book by its cover – and that applies to old furniture too! We share DIY tips on furniture refinishing and upholstery that can create statement pieces out of furniture that’s old and weathered, or that once faded into the background. Plus, answers to your questions about best layout for a kitchen, bath remodeling, fixing garage doors, dealing with chilly rooms and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. https://www.moneypit.com/question-submission/.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tired of paying high heating bills? Get tips on the best ways to use insulation to lower heating costs, plus ways to brighten your home in these dark winter days, when to fix vs replace an appliance that breaks down. In this episode:  Insulation is the single most effective way to reduce home heating costs. But with so many insulation options to choose and so many places to add insulation, Tom & Leslie walk you through how to know makes the most sense for your unique home. Are you tired of feeling, well, tired? Winter blues can bring you down this time of years - but we’ve got easy DIY pick-me-ups for your home that will help raise your spirit and make you home look great, just ahead this! And it’s an age-old dilemma when your appliances break down, is it better to make the repair or throw them out and start over? Our cheat sheet will help you make the right choice every time. Learn how to stop snow and ice from freezing at the end of your roof, forming ice dams and collapsing gutters. Plus answers to your home improvement questions about installing a support beam, getting rid of pet odors, how to compare wood stoves stopping a leaking toilet part , insulating a crawl space, and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. https://www.moneypit.com/question-submission/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Space heaters are a popular way to stay warm in winter but they’re also a leading cause of home fires. In this episode Tom & Leslie have smart strategies to stay safe, along with tips for growing veggies at home though winter, and a cool idea to update the look of your appliances, including.  Stainless steel is still a popular choice for kitchen appliances, but very costly. If your dishwasher or refrigerator still work great but need a new look, learn how this affordable faux stainless steel can transform them into shining beauties, including an application trick that make it super easy to apply. If you are missing your usual supply of fresh veggies that are available in warmer weather, we’ve got tips for by growing fresh vegetables indoors that can keep you with a steady supply of veggies from now until Spring. Mice love to move indoors when it turns cold, which is why they can which make your house their winter getaway! We share tips to help keep furry creatures away. You’ll be amazed at what they can actually chew through! Plus, answers to questions, about fixing stuck windows, building a retaining wall, water puddling around house, easy way to remove caulk from a tub, replacing a garage door opener, installing crown molding and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the weather outside is frightful, icicles are NOT so delightful and could lead to big roof leaks. In this episode, Tom & Leslie have tips, plus ideas on how to attract winter birds and smart strategies to carve out space for hobbies, including: The 3 most popular types of roof that stand up to winter’s harsh weather and the one element that is often left out of a roof replacement and leads to major winter leak damage. Learn how to bring life and color to your backyard by attracting a variety of winter birds with the right kind of bird feeder and food. Whether you enjoy crafts, woodwork or working on a car, find out how to organize your workspace for efficiency including the single biggest mistake DIY’rs make when setting up workspaces. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about leaking light fixtures, best stain resistant grout, cleaning moss from a roof, painting vinyl siding and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tired of having to walk to dog at all hours of the winter day? Tom & Leslie walk though the best options in doggy doors, plus dish out the best recipe to make sidewalk ice disappear with destroying concrete and share a $20 improvement that will provide more hot water. Adding a doggy door lets your pooch walk him or herself! Learn how to pick the right door (there’s at least 4 types!), get it properly installed and teach your pet to use. Learn the best way to burglar proof your pet door so skinny burglars don’t try and slip inside! Wondering why your walks look worn and pitted after every winter? Traditional rock salt works, but it’s extremely corrosive to surfaces and leaves concrete pitted and worn. Tom & Leslie share a recipe for a non-corrosive deicer that won’t harm your sidewalks or your indoor floors when it’s tracked into the house. It’s also a lot safer for pets! Find out why your water heater has to work harder in cold temperatures and how a $20 DIY project can make your hot water last a lot longer. Plus, answers to questions about countertop refinishing, sealing drafty windows, heating a garage, leaky roofs and finishing a basement and more. Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want your new place to look good, but your budget looks pretty bad? Tom and Leslie have tips for makeovers that require little to absolutely NO cash. Plus: Have you ever thought about adding solar panels to your home? Hearing lots of promises on how much money you’ll save? Tom shares the “creative math” some solar companies use to make the deal looks a lot better than it really is. If you’re just starting out in your first home or apartment, Tom & Leslie share ways to stretch your budget, along with your creative “muscles”, to create a place you’ll be proud to call home. Ever feel like you start projects but just can’t finish them? A recent survey shows more homeowners are taking on DIY projects, but more than half of DIY’rs have unfinished tasks – with almost 20% reporting they have 5 or more projects they need to complete! Get tips for planning a project you can actually get done, along with ideas for creating a realistic budget, and the smartest way to purchase home improvement supplies. Learn how to turn one big room into two smaller rooms by building a partition wall, a fairly basic DIY project that you can do with just a few steps. Plus answers to questions about adding in-floor heating and how to clean dryer ducts, fixing sticking doors, preventing plumbing problems, lowering heating cost and more! Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With winter temperatures at record lows across the country – a heated garage might sound pretty good to you! Tom & Leslie have garage heating options, solutions for doors that stick and ways to save money by upcycling furniture. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you tired of having to dust all the time, or always sneezing? Tom & Leslie share tips to get you breathing easier, share tips on renter’s insurance must-haves and poison prevention - plus, answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have a newer house that lacks the vintage charm of an older classic home? Tom & Leslie have tips to add vintage classics to any age home, plus tips for the best attic insulation option and answers to your home improvement questions including Leveling a house, ideas on remodeling , Heating house efficiently, proper way to prepare for painting and many other questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get DIY tips to help you turn a ho-hum space into a home theater. Find out how to avoid creepy Christmas tree bugs that may have attached themselves to your holiday tree and learn home wallpaper is making a big comeback. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about hiring an insurance adjuster, fixing cracks in stucco , solving sink problems, and solutions for hot water shortage and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you jumping into holiday décor? Tom & Leslie share tips for door décor, plus highlight handy American made tools and offer tips to fix weak or broken steps and railings before holiday guests arrive. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you ever start a home improvement project only to have it all go terribly wrong? Tom & Leslie share tips to save your project, and your pride. Plus, how to securely hang heavy pictures, a winter ready checklist and the answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ready to shop for a fresh holiday tree? Tom & Leslie share secrets for choosing one that can last the season, offer fast fixes for stuck garbage disposers, highlight new smoke detector technology plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Got some small projects to get done before the holidays? Tom & Leslie share tips for hiring a handyman, solve electrical problems and offer tips for those shopping for snowblowers, plus answer your questions to 888-MONEY PIT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are winter drafts sailing through your windows but you’re not ready for the expense, time or hassle of replacing them? Tom & Leslie share new option that’s easy to install, cuts drafts by 80% and is affordable. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As temperatures drop, are your water pipes ready to stand up to the cold? Tom & Leslie share tips to stop frozen pipes, plus easy space-saving bath remodeling and the 4-step plan to remove wallpaper. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you looking forward to a winter full of enjoying a roaring fireplace? Well, you’d better make sure your chimney is up for the challenge. Tom & Leslie have tips to keep your home safe and sound, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now that we are in full on heating season, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms are crucial for home safety – but many are not properly installed or maintained. Tom & Leslie have tips to keep you safe, plus answers to your questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom & Leslie share home staging secrets to fast sales, introduce a new concept in green cleaning products, offer kitchen fire safety tips and answer your questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Got a garage door that’s not making a very good first impression for your home? Tom & Leslie share tips on doors that are made better, look better and are more secure than ever before. Plus, answer your questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve been thinking about a remodeling project and wondering what to do with your ceiling – I’ll bet there’s one type you’ve totally ruled out – a drop ceiling. Tom & Leslie share why you might want to give these easy to install tiles a 2nd look plus, answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re hoping to avoid the flu in the coming months, hands-free, motion-activated faucets may be a healthy fit for your home. Tom & Leslie share how to choose one that’ll will work for your space, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you want to take on just about any outdoor project like building a patio, deck, fence or adding a room, you need to know the exact dimensions of your lot. Tom & Leslie have tips for hiring surveyors that can help, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Building a fence is a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal, home value and keep out the wildlife. Tom & Leslie have tips to help you get started. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the internet touching practically every aspect of kids’ lives, keeping them safe online is an important topic for many parents. Tom & Leslie have tips for a stress-free easy-to-install solution, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall is actually the perfect time to take on big projects that will add enjoyment next spring and for many years to come like building a deck or patio. Tom & Leslie share tips, plus, answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your concrete walks and driveway are looking worn, now’s a good time to restore those surfaces before snow and ice starts to fall. We’ll share an easy DIY way to do just that, Plus answers to your questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are heating costs sending a chill down your spine, even when your house is warm! Tom & Leslie have tips for spending less on heating Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As heating systems kick on, heating problems kick in. Tom & Leslie share tips to keep systems safe, and saving money, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fall is an amazing season for beautiful colors but as the heating season kicks in, so do the risks of fire. Tom and Leslie highlight fire prevention risks you haven’t thought of and share tips to stay safe. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you know there was one EASY home improvement that can prevent cracked foundation, rotting siding and leaky roofs? Tom & Leslie share that key tip, plus answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you looking for fast, free ways to save on energy around your home this winter? Tom & Leslie share ten ways you can do that, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Summer turns to Fall, it’s time to get your heating system serviced to make sure the system remains safe and efficient. Tom & Leslie explain the key components to include, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From single sinks to limited square footage, smaller bathrooms often leave much to be desired. But you don’t have to make a bathroom bigger to make it better. Tom & Leslie share tips, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to step up your curb appeal for Fall? Painting is the single easiest way to do that. Tom & Leslie share money saving tricks that can help you get this job done quickly and efficiently. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The most active part of hurricane season is upon us, and no one’s more vulnerable than seniors – especially if they live alone. Tom & Leslie have tips to keep senior citizens in your life safe from weather emergencies. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With so many new types to choose from, how do you know what’s right for you? Tom & Leslie share easy steps to help you choose, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As outdoor living season starts to come to a close, the time has come for your outdoor furniture to go into hibernation. But before you pack it up Tom & Leslie share tips to help you clean it up. Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re planning to put your home on the market, getting it ready is no small feat. Tom & Leslie share a few quick and easy inexpensive projects that will attract buyer s add immediate value. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Smart houses are big on convenience but often require a big budget – unless of course you take the DIY approach! Tom & Leslie share money-saving ideas plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As summer roles to a close - now is the perfect time to take on a few easy projects that’ll help avoid bigger, colder headaches as the weather changes. Tom & Leslie share projects that deliver the best bang for your buck. Plus, answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just because it starting to cool off and get dark earlier doesn’t mean you have to cut back on outdoor entertaining. Tom & Leslie have tips on THREE ways you can extend the use of your outdoor space. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bathroom remodels provide one of the best returns on investments when it comes time to sell, but only if they’re properly planned. Tom & Leslie have tips to keep costs in line and to keep bathroom downtime to a minimum! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Older windows are more challenging than charming when they get stuck shut – or stuck open! Toom & Leslie have tips for breaking stuck windows free -- without breaking windows in the process, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dogs may be a man’s best friend, but they’re rarely a YARD’s best friend. Tom & Leslie share tips to prevent pet damage, plus answer your home improvement questions. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grout never ever seems to be as clean as the day it’s put down, but besides the dirt, grout can harbor harmful microbes and mold. Tom and Leslie share pro solutions for sparkling clean tile floors plus answer to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The “dog days of summer” can wreak havoc on an otherwise healthy lawn, especially if you live in a community with water restrictions. Tom and Leslie share tips to keep lawns alive even when they turn brown, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is peak season for tics that can carry dangerous diseases. Tom & Leslie share surprising ways ticks hitch a ride and how to avoid bites, plus answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thinking about updating a room but don’t know where to begin? Interior designers help to facilitate your ideas, making your dream home a reality. Toom & Leslie share tip to help you find the best pro for your project, plus answer your home improvement questions  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the long, humid “dog days” of summer ahead, we can expect to see more sever summer storms. Tom & Leslie have tips to help you stay safe and keep your home in good shape when storms hit, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to add a new look to your kitchen over just a weekend? Then just change up the lighting! Tom & Leslie have tips on installing energy efficient pendant lights for an easy DIY update, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This time of year, homeowners grow pretty tired of paying the water bill to keep their lawns looking lush. Tom & Leslie share solutions to growing a drought resistant lawn, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don’t wait for the hottest summer day to find out there’s a problem with your air conditioning! Tom & Leslie have tips to keep it up and running all summer long, plus, answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Warm weather means kids are spending more and more time outside, but tics are doing the same. Tom & Leslie share tips stay clear – including a homemade tic repellant that really works, along with answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Take the sting out of summer activities by knowing how to avoid bees and wasps. Tom & Leslie share strategies to safely clear these pesky pests, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just because kids may be old enough to stay home alone, they may not be able to handle a home related emergency. Tom & Leslie share an important checklist plus answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you have an old worn concrete patio but would prefer to have a beautiful paver patio instead, Tom & Leslie share an easy to do this without needing to tear up all that old concrete. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

And after a couple of months of heavy grilling, your gas grill may need an extreme makeover of its own. Tom & Leslie have tips for a simple mid-season grill cleaning to step up the sizzle! Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is a season when we put a lot of stress on our electrical systems. Tom & Leslie share three pro projects that can help make sure your wiring is up for the job. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you are planning a project that requires the skills of a pro, its important you find a contractor you can trust, that does good work and one that you get along well with! Tom & Leslie share what questions to ask when hiring a pro, plus answer to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Harsh and direct sunlight can fade furniture and floors, not to mention raise energy costs. Tom & Leslie tell you about a way you can shut out the damaging rays with the push of a button. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As weather gets warmer, your lawn needs more water to stay green – which also leads to a LOT of wasted water. Tom & Leslie share tips to help you cut water costs without losing a luscious lawn in the process. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is a season when we put a lot of demands on our electrical systems. Tom & Leslie share tips on how to stop blowing breakers so the AC keeps flowing and the lights stay on, plus answer your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is a season when we put a lot of demands on our electrical systems. Tom & Leslie share tips on how to stop blowing breakers so the AC keeps flowing and the lights stay on, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to live in a home that’s well built, uses less energy and needs need’s less maintenance? Tom & Leslie share tips on why pre-fab homes may be the way to go. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ready for a new space to cook up the family meals? Tom & Leslie have tips for new indoor and outdoor kitchens, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you itching to get your garden growing but wondering what you should start to plant NOW? Tom & Leslie have TIPS on a few plants suited for early summer planting and late summer eating, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you struggle to stay comfortable last summer? If so, now’s a great time for an AC upgrade to improve comfort AND efficiency. We’ll have A/C upgrade tips to help you keep cool without breaking the bank Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you planning to hire a pro to help you with a project this spring? Tom & Leslie say good communication is the key to a good outcome. Learn what needs to be spelled out in your contract to make sure the jobs gets done right, plus answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The warmer it gets the more water we drink and if you’re concerned about water quality and taste, Tom & Leslie highlight a couple of easy steps you can take to protect the water in your own home, plus, answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn all about the National Hardware Show and get inside info on the home improvement trends for spring Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn all about the National Hardware Show and get inside info on the home improvement trends for spring Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer is a season where water gets wasted – lots of it! Tom & Leslie share how new fixtures & faucets can actually do the water saving for you, saving hundreds of dollars every single year! Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kitchens may be the busiest room in your house and the countertop need to be able to take all the wear and tear. Tom & Leslie share tips on how to pick the most durable and easiest to clean tops, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Looking for a fun and easy spring project to add instant curb appeal to your home? Tom & Leslie share FIVE that’ll do just that. Plus answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re getting ready to move to a new home or apartment, key steps taken now can save time, hassle and lots of cash. Tom and Leslie share tips plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom & Leslie share earth-friendly home improvement ideas this hour, to help you save energy, water and money. Plus learn how to spot storm damage before it causes major leaks, and get the answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you ready to see more signs of spring? So are we! Tom & Leslie share tips to jump start your garden and get those flowers blooming –plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Good fences make good neighbors but how exactly do you build a good fence? Well, for us that’s the kind you won’t have to build over and over again because it gets destroyed by rot, termites and carpenter ants! Tom & Leslie share solutions, plus answers to your home improvement questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kitchen may be where the heart is but if you don’t keep it clean, it can also be a source of pollution got your home! Tom and Leslie share cleaning tips to freshen the air, plus offer tips on backyard projects, garage safety and answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quick Kitchen Cabinet Solutions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you tried to grow lush green lawn but feel like you’re losing the battle to bald spots and weeds? Tom and Leslie share 4 key tips to make sure your lawn thrives, plus, answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you know one very common household item found in most junk drawers can cause a serious fire? Tom and Leslie share safety tips. Plus get Spring cleaning secrets to power through outside projects and answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let the sun shine through with easy DIY window cleaning tips, including a recipe for a solution you can make yourself for just pennies. Plus, expert grout cleaning tips, solid advice for building a shed and answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Remember the days when we all sat outside, chatted with neighbors and enjoyed a nice, cold drink on a porch? You may get another chance! Porches are making a HUGE comeback. Tom & Leslie share the details, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Deer and rabbits are a sign of spring – but maybe not a WELCOME one if they’re in your garden! Tom & Leslie share tips to keep these intruders away, plus answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Small kitchens can be tough places to work in. But a few modest updates can make it feel bigger and work better. Tom & Leslie have tips, plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ready to move to a new apartment? Tom & Leslie have simple decorating ideas to make your apartment feel like home and make sure you get that security deposit back at the end of your lease. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We spend more money heating and cooling our homes than just about any other expense. Tom and Leslie share new system that provides four times the efficiency of any other system on the market. Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you an empty nester looking to downsize?  Find out why droves of older Americans are trading in all that extra space for a cozy, low-budget, tiny homes. Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the weather warms, the kickoff of the home improvement season gets closer – millions of homeowners are thinking about their next big project. Tom & Leslie highlight the innovations that will have the biggest impact on American housing, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re looking for projects that add value to your home, there are many you might do, but almost as many you should avoid! Tom & Leslie help sort out the ones to avoid, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Remodeling a laundry room is a very popular project that can make laundry a lot easier. But even though it’s a small space, it requires big planning and several types of pros to get it done. Tom and Leslie share the secrets to success, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Most consumers focus on how their landscape looks but not on their “LIGHT” scape! Tom & Leslie share tips to get a whole new nighttime view with the right combo of exterior lighting, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Planning a kitchen re-do? Tom & Leslie provide tips to infuse energy into your kitchen by using mixed metal finishes for appliance, faucets and countertops. Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ready to step up indoor décor with a new tile project? Tom & Leslie have tips on hot new tile trends using materials including wood, plaster, resin and steel Plus, get answer to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it comes to heating your home, there are many choices in heating fuel -- but not all are efficient?  Tom & Leslie help sort the differences between oil, gas, propane and electric heat to find out which delivers the best energy efficiency, plus answer your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Winter storms can cause obvious structural damage but there can also be hidden damage that turns into big expenses later on. Tom & Leslie have tips on how to check your house for both the visible and Invisible.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feel the winter doldrums? Tom & Leslie share ideas on the best paint colors to spark a better mood and a brighter space.  Plus, get answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re a renter,and hate your kitchen, you may think there’s not a whole lot you can do about it! Tom & Leslie share 5 kitchen fix ups that won’t break your security deposit, plus answers to your home improvement questions.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did you know that ONE household item can help rid of clutter? Tom & Leslie share a slew of simple storage hacks, plus answer your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does your house have annoying squeaks, bangs and thuds – even in the middle of the night?  Tom & Leslie share tricks figuring out where the sounds are coming, plus answer your home improvement question.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NASCAR superstar Jeff Gordon joins Money Pit hosts Tom and Leslie to talk about his own money pit and the home improvements he’s made, along with his biggest challenge when it comes to home projects. Plus, April showers are on their way – which means Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Winter is a particularly busy time for home fires – but a home sprinkler system can stop almost all of them. Tom & Leslie share tips on adding home sprinkler systems, plus answers to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This time of winter, electricity that keeps heating systems humming can spike electricity bills?  Tom & Leslie have 4 tips for big savings that won’t require you to put on lots of sweaters!  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re one of the many scaling back to smaller spaces, finding enough storage space requires some creative thinking!  Tom & Leslie share 4 ways to find space where none seems to exist, plus answer your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you laying your head down on a bed of bacteria every night?  Tom & Leslie have tips to de-tox your mattress, plus answers to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Need some room to feed your creative spirit but can’t find it in your existing space?  Tom & Leslie share tips for uncovering hidden space for crafts, woodwork, arts and more, plus answer your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Heavy snow fall followed by warm days can allow ice dams and serious leaks to occur.  Tom & Leslie tell you how to stop the leaks and even get costs covered by insurance – plus answer your questions!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As temperatures drop, people add layers, but pets need protection too.  Tom & Leslie share tips on how to create heated pet spaces, inside and out, plus answers your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adding a solar energy system is generally not thought of as a DIY project, but there’s no reason it can’t be.  Tom & Leslie share tips on how to cut the cost of adding solar by 40% or more, plus answer your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever noticed that when storms are predicted, people get a little crazy with the last-minute prep? Tom & Leslie have tips to make sure you are ready for any storm plus, answers to your home improvement questions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices