The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’re shedding light on the best kitchen lighting options, solving damp laundry dilemmas with clever dryer hacks, and adding life to your backyard by attracting winter birds. Plus, listen in as we help callers with their toughest DIY challenges! - Clothes Dryer: Put a new spin on drying your laundry with tips to avoid wrinkles, damp clothes, and static. - Kitchen Lighting: Get bright ideas for choosing the perfect kitchen lighting for every task. - Bird Feeders: These bird feeders will have feathered friends flocking to your yard this winter. Q & A: - Gutters: Risa’s gutters keep getting clogged with leaves. We recommend thin mesh gutter guards as the best option and warn against gutter sales scams. - Flooring: A leaking French drain is bubbling up Keith’s epoxy flooring. We have tips for repairing the drain and adhering commercial tile to a damp slab. - Electrical: The automatic light in a closet sometimes arcs when it comes on. That’s a very dangerous electrical fire hazard that Ming needs to have replaced immediately. - Foundation: Steve wonders if a solid concrete foundation is better than cinderblock for preventing moisture. It may be stronger, but improving the outside drainage is most important. - HVAC: Is it possible to convert a fireplace to open both ways if there are two chimneys? Danuza learns why it can’t be done and what to discuss with a fireplace expert. - Roofing: Paul needs options for replacing his old flat roof. We stress how quality workmanship makes all the difference when installing a flat roof. - Bath Tile: Spider cracks are suddenly forming on Stephanie’s acrylic liner walls. If it’s just the glazing on the surface, she can apply car wax to buff and hide the cracks. 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 discussing home improvement resolutions that stick, the ins and outs of adding a basement bathroom, and our favorite DIY hacks to make your projects a breeze. Plus, we’re here to help you get unstuck on any project, so listen in for answers to more questions from DIYers just like you! - Home Improvement: Nail down the new year with home improvement resolutions you can actually keep. - Basement Bathrooms: Smart drainage solutions for basement bathrooms will help you go with the flow. - DIY Hacks: Fix it fast with 4 favorite home improvement hacks to get things done quickly and easily. Q & A: - Roof Leak: Dan’s trying to seal leaks coming through his metal roof. If it’s a flashing issue near seams or pipe openings, he should overlap the panels and use silicone caulk. - Heated Floor: Can Sylvia install in-floor heating with Terrazzo tile? It’s a big, expensive project but PEX piping can be run through the underlayment beneath the tile floor. - Plumbing Leak: Fletch shares his experience with contractors who misdiagnosed water in the basement that was really coming from a leak in a refrigerator water line. - French Doors: The whole bottom of Fran’s French doors have rotted from rain exposure. The area’s too big to patch and we suggest installing new fiberglass doors. - Laminate Flooring: Leroy learns that laminate flooring has layers and not one color all the way through, but it is designed to stand up to heavy use and rolling chairs. - Termites: Dawn found termite damage after taking down a wall. We explain how to reinforce the beam by attaching another one, rather than replacing the damaged beam. - Countertop: We have advice for Jack on how to cut a laminate countertop to install a double oven and the best tools to use to prevent splintering. - Wheelchair Ramp: How can you keep snow and ice off a wheelchair ramp without damaging the wood? Sue should use less-corrosive calcium chloride salt mixed with sand. - Electrical: Dot calls to give an update on her kitchen remodeling project and reports how the electrician successfully ran wiring through the slab under the laminate floor. - Mold Removal: Mold is coming up the basement walls in Cumi’s rental home. This is a toxic hazard and the landlord’s responsibility to address the issue and safely remove 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: On this show, find out why tripped circuits may be a sign your electrical panel is ready for an upgrade, learn an easy way to prevent ice dams on your roof, and get DIY hacks to fix water rings, dings, and dents on your furniture. Plus, listen in as callers’ home improvement questions are answered with expert advice! - Electrical Upgrades: Learn 5 powerful reasons to upgrade your electrical panel. - Ice Dams: Icicles on your roof can indicate a potential roof leak, but there’s an easy way to prevent ice dams. - Furniture Repair: Repair furniture dings, dents, and stains with these easy DIY hacks. Q & A: - Bathroom: Eddie has a moisture problem in his bathrooms. He should ensure he has enough attic insulation and install humidistats with timers to increase ventilation. - Flooring: There’s sun damage around the floor area where Ty pulled up a rug. Time and UV light will eventually even out the wood flooring unless he wants to sand the entire floor. - Sewer: Betsy has tree root clumps blocking her sewer line. There are ways to clear the sewer line without having to excavate the whole area. - Mice: Mice are coming into William’s house through the basement. He must avoid storing anything that attracts them, seal all gaps, and place bait stations on the basement ledge. - Fireplace: Wind is blowing in all around a gas fireplace. Susan should look for gaps around the box, check the installation guidelines, and install fireplace doors. - Paneling: What is the best way to cover dark wood paneling? If it’s not glued on, David can try removing it. Otherwise, he can paint it or add a layer of drywall over it. - Tile Floor: The ceramic tile floor in a new home is already cracking, probably due to the lack of an isolation membrane installed between the slab and the tile. Debra should have an independent engineer evaluate 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: Say goodbye to cold floors, sticky doors, and unused spaces! Today, we explore the benefits of radiant floor heating, simple fixes for stubborn doors, and how to create a hobby studio you’ll love. Whether you’re repairing, improving, or designing, we’ve got the tools and tips to guide you through all your home improvement projects! - Stuck Doors: Finding solutions for stuck doors requires some smooth moves. - Heated Floors: Step into comfort by adding radiant heat to your floors. - Hobby Space: Craft your escape by designing the perfect hobby space. Q & A: - Electrical: Why do some outlets have 2 prongs and others have 3 prongs? Lisa learns how they’re grounded differently and that it’s always a good idea to update wiring. - Brick: Some areas of Julian’s brick chimney are flaking off and getting tiny holes. He should use a vapor-permeable silicone-based sealer to reduce moisture soaking into the brick. - Water Heater: Colleen wants to replace her two old water heaters with tankless units, but we offer two options that would be more efficient for an electric system. - Heated Driveway: Is a heated driveway a good idea for a snowy climate? Dylan gets info on how the cables are installed and the operating costs involved. - Generator: Rich is looking for a good natural gas generator to power his whole house. This Kohler whole-house generator comes highly recommended for ease of use and peace of mind. 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’ve got advice for winter challenges! Learn how to clean up your indoor air, fight the seasonal blues, and handle icy conditions with practical hacks. Plus, listen in as callers share their home improvement goals and get answers to their DIY questions! - Winter Blues: Brighten your home and your spirits with DIY hacks to beat the winter blues. - Air Filters: Clear the air of pollutants and allergens by installing the right indoor air filters. - Snow and Ice: Fight frost and stay safe with clever tips to clear snow and ice fast. Q & A: - Patio Surface: Jennifer’s large concrete patio has gotten pitted from salt. We recommend using a Quikrete Concrete Resurfacing product that will fill in the gaps. - Sump Pump: Jesse has questions about how to connect a new sump pump system. We discuss what is needed to drain the water correctly. - Heating: Joan wants to heat a small outbuilding to create a craft studio. If she’s able to run a gas line, she can install a wall heater and insulate the space as well as possible. - Wood-Burning Stove: Where is the best location for a wood-burning stove in a three-season room? Frances gets tips about safe clearance space and building a heat shield. - Cabinets: Marilyn wants to take her custom kitchen cabinets to her new home. It can be done by disassembling the cabinets the same way they were assembled. - Furnace: Carl has a high-efficiency furnace but low-efficiency ducts. He can use a tape to seal leaky ducts or seal them from the inside with a material that sticks and plugs gaps. - Insulation: What is the best way to insulate the walls of a cold kitchen? Lora should start by insulating the attic, then have an inspector advise how to insulate the walls. - Plumbing: A copper pipe behind the boiler is leaking. Kris needs to drain the boiler to below the leak and refill it after repairing the pipe. - Air Quality: Jeannie thinks poor indoor air quality is making her friend sick. We offer info about HVAC filters but the landlord must address the problem and look for 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: Today, get ideas for refreshing your home with new décor on a budget, taking back your peace and quiet by reducing outside noises, and making sure your woodcutting efforts pay off with proper firewood storage. Plus, get tips for creating your best home ever with expert answers to all your DIY home improvement questions! - Home Décor: Refresh your space and keep down costs with 5 ideas for home décor on a dime. - Outdoor Noise: Get back your peace and quiet with tips for minimizing outdoor noises. - Firewood Storage: Proper firewood storage can prevent your plans for a perfect fire from going up in smoke. Q & A: - Contractors: Rita is frustrated by contractors who won’t give her answers or estimates. We suggest a website to search for local contractors who are right for the job. - Pavers: How should George use mortar to lock new concrete pavers in place? He should build a pad at least 8” wider than what he needs or use flexible border edging. - Garage Floor: How to clean a garage floor coated with oil and grease? Laurie should pressure wash it with a TSP solution and let it dry before applying an epoxy floor finish. - Vent Fan: There’s lots of condensation every time Brian uses the shower. He needs to reduce the bathroom humidity with a more powerful vent fan with a humidistat that discharges outside. - Concrete Stains: Acorns from the oak trees are staining Gail’s concrete driveway. We recommend cleaning it as needed by scrubbing the surface with oxygenated bleach. - HVAC Fireplace: Paul has questions about installing a wood or gas fireplace with a chimney through the center of the house. We discuss things he needs to know. - Insulation: Amy wants to add insulation to a huge old attic. Her best option is spray foam insulation, but it will cover the rafters that she wants to leave exposed. - Flooring: What type of floating floor could possibly be refinished later if necessary? We recommend that Doug install engineered hardwood flooring. 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 choose firewood that maximizes heat and safety, discover the smart way to shop for a new furnace before an emergency strikes, and find out how to grow fresh veggies and herbs indoors all year long. Make your home cozy and efficient plus get more home improvement advice on today’s Money Pit! - Firewood: Fuel your fire right with facts for choosing great firewood. - Furnaces: Cut costs and stay warm by buying a new and more efficient furnace. - Container Gardens: Enjoy herbs and vegetables all year long with an indoor container garden. Q & A: - Roofing: Insurance should cover damage from the leak in the seam of Steve’s flat roof, including fixing or replacing the ceiling, insulation, and roof, plus applying a mold inhibitor. - Woodwork: Paula needs to repair old woodwork throughout her home. It’s a lot of work to replace it all, so we suggest cleaning, priming, and painting the molding. - Heating: Virgil’s new energy-efficient furnace in his vacation home stopped working and everything froze. He should contact the contractor and the manufacturer to check the recommended venting installation. - House Leveling: The main beam under the house is broken and the kitchen is sinking. Diana gets advice for bolting a new beam to the existing one instead of raising the floor. - Plumbing: The basement toilet gurgles and won’t flush all the way. Rick should have a professional drainage company find and clear the blockage. - Cleaning Concrete: What’s the best way to clean a concrete fireplace hearth? Sharon can scrub it with a TSP mixture, let it sit, and blot it dry or else consider a concrete stain. - Flooring: John has no access to heat a small room over the crawlspace. He can either break through the wall to create space to insulate or add a layer of insulated subfloor. - Windows: The seal is broken on George’s tinted glass window. We recommend replacing it with an ENERGY STAR-rated window with the right glass and coating. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: On today’s show, get festive with front door decorating tips that make a great first impression, learn how to properly clean and disinfect your home to keep germs at bay, and discover an innovative way to stop a running toilet from wasting water. Don’t miss these and other quick and impactful home improvement ideas as we answer questions from DIY callers! - Holiday Décor: Welcome guests to your home with door décor to sleigh the holiday season. - Cleaning: Wipe out germs with these cleaning tips for sanitary surfaces. - Running Toilet: This innovative toilet flapper flushes away water waste from a leaky toilet. Q & A: - Wallpaper Removal: Thomas needs advice for removing wallpaper. It’s a lot of work, but we’ve got tips for using a paper tiger tool, wallpaper paste remover, or a wallpaper steamer. - Caulk: Can caulk be applied in colder temperatures? Silicone caulk could work with no expansion issues, but it may not flow as freely and will be harder to level out. - Painting Paneling: Dena wants to cover dark wood paneling in every room. We recommend cleaning, lightly sanding, and priming the surface before painting over it. - Faucets: Is it a good idea to open faucet valves all the way before reducing the flow? Rich learns it’s not necessary with new ceramic faucet valves that won’t wear out. - Insulation: It’s always colder or hotter upstairs in Linda’s home. We suggest adding blown-in insulation, ensuring baffles are in place, and covering the whole house fan in winter to prevent heat loss. - Shower Odor: A sour smell is coming from the shower drain. Heidi should scrub it with Borox or oxygenated bleach and install a timer or humidistat on the bathroom vent fan. - Old Windows: Don gets advice for using a heat gun or steamer to carefully warm and remove old putty from a historic poured glass window that needs to be reglazed. - Wood Siding: Can Sherry install redwood siding over the flat plywood siding? It’s easy to do by applying tar paper first and attaching the new siding right over it. - Concrete Countertop: Lane is thinking of creating an affordable concrete countertop. It’s a lot of work, but good prep and a strong building form are key. - Bathroom Floor: Mark wants to run heated bathroom flooring off a gas water heater, but it’s not cost-effective due to the piping needed and the boiler not heating well enough. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: On today’s episode, we’ll reveal the top 5 remodeling mistakes to avoid, share tips for choosing a safe and efficient space heater, and teach you how to spot a fresh Christmas tree. Plus, listen in for expert answers to more DIY home improvement questions from callers like you! - Remodeling: Avoid renovation regrets caused by these top 5 home remodeling mistakes. - Space Heaters: Warm up wisely by choosing a safe and efficient space heater. - Christmas Trees: Get tree-mendous tips for finding the freshest live Christmas tree. Q & A: - Wood Stove Safety: Will a wood stove harm the electrical wiring behind it? Melina must install a heat shield and/or put the stove 3 feet from the wall to avoid a fire hazard. - Shower Remodel: Jim wants to replace his shower. We’ll discuss different budget options, from affordable and easy liners to a complete renovation with a shower kit. - Flooring: What kind of backer board should Steve use under the new floor tile? His subfloor is pretty solid, so a ¼-inch backer board should be fine. - Windows: Some of Donna’s old double-pane windows don’t open or close. It’s possible to repair them if she can find the parts, but it would be better to replace the windows. - HVAC: Lou’s hot water HVAC system is not heating the second floor. An HVAC professional can do diagnostics to look for an obstruction or faulty valve. - Ventilation and Insulation: Christine gets answers to several questions about insulating and ventilating her garage and the use of ridge vents and soffit vents. - Bathtub: Can you remove an old bathtub and replace it with a walk-in shower? It can be done, but Jeff should consider his home’s resale value if there are no other tubs. - Wood Countertop: Is a wood countertop a good, easy option for Ann’s under-mount kitchen sink? Unfortunately, wood is a lot of work to finish and maintain. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we’re simplifying window shopping with tips for reading energy labels, sharing a weekend-friendly solution for sleek granite-look countertops, and helping you safely deck the halls for the holidays. Tune in to The Money Pit to hear expert advice and answers to your DIY dilemmas! - New Windows: Window buying is made clear as glass with these tips for decoding window energy labels. - Stone Countertops: Give your countertops a sleek and stunning granite finish with an easy DIY kit. - Holiday Lighting: Twinkle without trouble by taking the right precautions for holiday lighting. Q & A: - Wallpaper: Wallpaper seams keep curling up on one wall, but Nora can try using a seam repair adhesive product that gets good reviews. - Distressed Wood: Cliff is making picture frames and wants to make the barn wood look old. We’ve got tips for beating up the wood before staining the surface. - Deck Boards: There is no space between Cindy’s porch deck boards, making water pool and freeze. It’s easy to fix by using a circular saw to cut a small seam between the boards. - Closet Space: Matt wants to change the opening of a narrow closet from the short wall to the long wall. We recommend building a temporary load-bearing wall while he does the work. - Cleaning Grout: How should Lisa clean the grout of her porcelain floor tiles in high-traffic areas? A grout stripper would be stronger than a grout cleaner. - Floor Stain: A dark spray paint can leaked on Tiffany’s laminate floor! She should carefully use acetone nail polish remover, which won’t remove the floor’s durable finish. - Insulation: Georgianne’s bedrooms with outside walls get very cold. We offer ideas for using a clock thermostat, insulating the attic, and sealing drafty windows and outlets. - Countertops: Mark needs ideas for making a dark Formica countertop lighter. We recommend a Daich Coatings kit that offers the perfect solution for a DIY countertop. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’ll show you how to store leftover paint properly and put it to good use. If you’re planning to sell your home, find out what kitchen mistakes could scare off buyers. Plus, we’re breaking down whether extended warranties are worth the price. Tune in for DIY tips, tricks, and answers to your home improvement questions! - Warranties: Are extended warranties worthwhile or worthless? Find out when to buy and when to pass. - Leftover Paint: Get fresh looks from old cans with tips for storing and using leftover paint. - Home Selling: Don’t let these stale kitchen mistakes cook your home sale. Q & A: - Countertops: Cheryl needs ideas for resurfacing plywood countertops. Laminate or tile may be the quickest, easiest, and most affordable options. - Flooring: Mike wants to replace the old kitchen vinyl floor with tile, but laminate flooring is a better choice that would take less room on top of the existing floor. - Leaking Roof: The corrugated metal roof keeps leaking. Cindy gets advice for adding a second layer of roof with an ice and water shield in between or replacing the entire roof. - Real Estate: Marilyn’s military family is moving again and she has questions about real estate. We discuss the pros and cons of buying, renting, and property taxes. - Energy Savings: Will drop ceilings improve the heating efficiency in Cary’s home that’s powered off the grid? Yes, and adding insulation above it will make a huge difference. - Brick Mortar: Mortar is coming out from various places around the brick. Barbara should hire a professional mason with the right skills to repoint the mortar. - Insulation: There’s very little access for Dan to insulate under the floor of the back porch. He may be able to add spray foam insulation or dig out a crawlspace. - Igloo: Lonnie is thinking of buying a concrete domed building, but needs suggestions on how to manage moisture and design a professional HVAC system. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn how to safeguard your plumbing from a winter freeze. Then, find out how the EPA’s new tool can prove energy-saving payoffs. Plus, we’ve got easy solutions for tough-to-clean tile floors. Have a project in mind? Listen in for answers to all your home improvement questions! - Frozen Pipes: Freeze out frozen pipe disasters by protecting your plumbing this winter. - Saving Energy: Power up with a new EPA program that boosts your home energy saving IQ. - Floor Cleaning: Get expert grime-fighter tips for cleaning tough stains from tile floors. Q & A: - Toilet Valves: Tom wants to change the shut-off valves on his toilets. We offer tips for trimming back the pipe for a clean cut before slipping on a new compression valve. - Cabinet Repair: Laurie’s kitchen cabinets got damaged when the floors were refinished. Remixing the paint and carefully touching up only the dinged areas will help. - Plumbing: The bathroom pipes started vibrating after the tub was replaced. Crystal learns that the pipe brackets may not have been secured well enough. - Outdoor Fountain: The bowel of Jack’s outdoor fountain is porous and leaking. We suggest draining and drying it well, then applying an epoxy compound to seal it. - Snow on Roof: When snow accumulates on Terry’s glass sunroof, it slides off in sheets. She should call the manufacturer to see about adding ice guard brackets. - Security: Robert’s property keeps getting broken into over and over! We discuss installing LED motion sensor lights and a camera system with a monitoring service. - Uneven Floor: Deb’s floor is uneven and the stairs are twisting. It would be easier for her to adjust the staircase than to rebuild the floor. - Insulation: Is spray foam insulation a good option to use above a basement drop ceiling? Pete wouldn’t have access to any pipes, so thermal fiber or fiberglass insulation are better choices. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we’ll help you assess your roof’s winter readiness, reveal the best and worst appliance brands, and show you how to expand attic storage safely. Plus, we’re here to help you tackle any home improvement challenge with confidence, so listen in for expert answers to all your questions! - Attic Space: Find storage room under the rafters by adding attic floor space. - Appliance Rankings: Consumer Reports’ appliance rankings reveal best buys and big regrets. - Roof Care: Learn whether you should repair, replace, or rejuvenate your roof in time for winter. Q & A: - Foundation Drainage: Does Jill really need a double drainage system for the home she’s building? It’s a smart idea and we recommend having a good pitch and installing larger gutters. - Plumbing: The bathroom plumbing is new but the water comes out rusty. Randall should install a whole-house water filter on the main line. - Countertop: Is there a way to refinish a stained white marble countertop? Katherine can use a Daich Coatings kit to easily do it in the weekend. - Marble: Should Gary seal a marble table after staining it? We discuss various products to clean, polish, and seal the surface. - Dirt Floor: Rob wants to put concrete over the dirt floor in a hut. He gets instructions on how to tamp down the dirt, then pour and levelly spread the concrete. - Fireplace: Lynn is looking for ideas on how to change the façade of her fireplace. Marble, granite, and faux stone are all great options that can adhere right onto the brick. - Soundproofing: Gloria needs to block out the noise from her upstairs neighbor. We explain how to add Green Glue or soundproofing drywall, plus seal around any fixtures. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, learn how to maintain your washer and dryer to prevent floods and fires, keep stink bugs out with some sweet tricks, and choose the perfect mattress upgrades for a sound sleep. Plus, we’re sharing tips to help you make your home improvement plans a reality, so join the conversation! - Stinkbugs: Stinkbug invasions really stink, but there are ways to banish the bugs. - Washers and Dryers: Prevent floods and fires with washer and dryer maintenance. - Mattress Shopping: Snooze, don’t lose, with tips for buying a new mattress. Q & A: - Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees are eating away at Norma’s wood patio. She gets tips for professional pest control treatment and for replacing wood with composite materials. - Siding Repair: How can Ron reattach vinyl siding that’s coming loose? It’s easy to do if he has the right tool to bend the edges so he can connect the adjoining pieces. - Insulation: David’s old insulation is falling from the attic rafters. He should maximize the insulation in the floor joists by adding a layer of new insulation. - Metal Roof: Sally wonders if it’s a good idea to install a metal roof. It’s a great long-lasting investment, but the ROI depends on how long you’re staying the house. - Plumbing: When one toilet flushes, the toilet in the other bathroom drains. John needs to check the roof vent pipe to see if there’s an obstruction that’s blocking proper venting. - Worn Decking: Is there a way to fix a worn deck without replacing it? We suggest that Joan flip the deck boards over to the other side, which probably looks like new. - Refinishing Stairs: Should Jason apply water-based polyurethane to new wood stairs? A solvent-based polyurethane in a satin finish would hold up better to abrasion. - Old Windows: James has condensation in the windows of his historic home. He can’t change the window casing, but he can reduce the indoor humidity with a whole house dehumidifier. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we’ll share solutions for keeping plants thriving during winter, offer expert advice to avoid holiday plumbing disasters, and reveal why fall is the ideal season to kick off a composting project. Plus, listen in as callers get answers to their DIY home improvement questions! Winter Plants: Enjoy winter greens with tips to keep indoor plants thriving in the cold season. Plumbing Problems: Get plumbing tips to avoid clogs and flush holiday woes away. Fall Composting: Learn why fall is a perfect time to start a composting pile. Q & A: - Concrete Repairs: Which kind of mortar mix is best for fixing a concrete porch? Mindy has lots of questions about the best choices for various repairs using Quikrete products. - Bathroom Remodel: Jim is worried about water damage from a window in a remodeled bathroom. We suggest leaving the window and putting a waterproof curtain over it. - Cleaning Windows: Is there an easy way to clean your outside windows? Marie won’t find many DIY shortcuts, but can try using a concentrate product or hiring a professional. - Construction Materials: We discuss insulated concrete foam blocks with David and why they’re a good, durable, and quiet construction material option. - Garbage Disposal: When Eden turns on the garbage disposal, it backs up into the other sink. She gets tips on how to clear the drain line obstruction. - Damp Crawlspace: Rich still has a musty smell in the crawlspace after installing a vapor barrier and improving drainage. A dehumidifier and fans with a humidistat could help. - Caulking Gap: Julianne needs to fill the gap under the back door sill. She can use an epoxy patching cement to reinforce the space. - Ridge Vent: Robert is trying to find a particular ridge vent for metal roofs. He can check online for manufacturers that make them and where to buy them or have them shipped. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we share smart tips for slashing heating costs, maximizing tax benefits with end-of-year home improvements, and sealing drafts with an innovative spray foam product. Plus, hear practical advice for callers who have home improvement questions of their own! - Home Repairs and Taxes: Don’t overlook DIY deductions with these tax-saving home improvements. - Heating Bills: Lower your utility bills by addressing the three most common home heating mistakes. - Sealing Drafts: This DIY spray foam system makes it easy to seal gaps and stop drafts. Q & A: - Bathroom Flooring: What kind of flooring is best for a kids’ bathroom? Michelle gets recommendations for flooring products that are durable, affordable, and easy to clean. - Water Filtration: John wants to improve the taste and quality of his water. We share info about a reverse osmosis filtration system that’s compact and efficient. - Plumbing: Kate gets step-by-step instructions for replacing a laundry room sink and cabinet, and when to call a plumber if she runs into any plumbing issues. - Electrical Wiring: Ken’s light switch is controlled in two locations and not working properly. It’s actually a three-way switch that’s not wired correctly. - Patio Cover: Janet should be careful attaching a patio cover to her house. An attractive extending awning would be less expensive and easier to install and maintain. - Grout: Rust in the water has discolored the black grout in Vince’s shower. He can either replace the grout or use a grout stain to restore it. - Countertops: Is there any way to smooth down a leather look countertop? We don’t know of a way that Ann can do it, but there are options for refinishing laminate surfaces. - Basement Walls: The DRYLOK paint is peeling off of Bob’s cinderblock basement walls. He’ll need to think about other options for resurfacing them because the paint will be too hard to remove. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: This week, we’ll explain how to clean and restore a worn and stained driveway, help you winter-proof your home with a comprehensive checklist, and give advice on burglar-proofing your garage just in time for the holiday travel season. Tune in for these and other smart tips to protect and improve your home with answers to callers’ questions! - Prepping for Winter: Chill out and avoid winter woes with a winterization checklist for homeowners. - Driveway Restoration: Polish your approach by restoring a cracked or stained driveway. - Garage Security: Secure the weakest link by burglar-proofing your garage doors. Q & A: - Smoke Problems: Lingering smoke is making the paint bubble and the house smell. JJ gets tips on how to clean, seal, prime, and paint smoky surfaces. - Remodeling: Wendy is buying a property that used to be a golf clubhouse. We discuss what to know about a commercial versus a residential property. - Siding Stains: Patricia’s mobile home siding is stained from gutter runoff. She can try using a stronger cleaner, but the stain may actually be corrosion. - Insulation: Should Robert remove and replace old insulation that’s gotten compressed? He can either replace it or just add more insulation on top of it, which is easier to do. - Windows: Deane’s steel-framed commercial windows are screwed into the exterior brick. They’re hard to replace, so we suggest hiring a professional to measure and install new windows. - Second Bathroom: Should Greg add a second bathroom or turn an outside storage unit into living space? We explain why a bathroom addition would provide better ROI. - Toilet Water: Darren gets advice on converting his toilet to rain barrel water, including the water pressure he needs and getting an efficient toilet that uses less water. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us today to discover ways to keep your renovation costs in check, tips for heating your garage so it’s usable year-round, and must-know steps for winterizing your sprinkler system to avoid freezing mishaps. Tune in for expert advice on making your home winter-ready and functional on any budget! - Renovation Budget: Before your blueprints bust the budget, learn how to manage home renovation costs. - Garage Heating: Warm up your workspace with garage heating hacks. - Sprinkler Systems: Follow this chill-proof checklist for winterizing your sprinkler system. Q & A: - Roofing Repairs: Terry finds out that her roofers were right when they replaced the flashing to fix her leaky chimney. - Deck Stain: The stain on Ted’s hardwood deck just won’t dry! This happens sometimes with new stain products, so he should wait some more before trying to remove it and reapply a different deck stain. - Glue Removal: Sylvia is stuck with old carpet glue! She should use a citrus adhesive remover to soften the glue, then add a new layer of plywood before installing hardwood flooring over that. - Soundproofing: How can Ian soundproof the recording studio he’s building? We recommend adding a layer of sound-resistant drywall and sealing any outlets and openings. - Generator: Can you use a power generator in an apartment? It’s not very convenient, since Linda would have to use a portable generator and run extension cords outdoors. - Damp Basement: Mike wonders if a dehumidifier would dry up his damp basement. He needs to solve the source first by improving the grading and drainage outside his home. - Concrete Repair: Leah’s concrete porch keeps cracking and is unlevel. We discuss the specific products she needs to adhere to the concrete base and make repairs. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we’ll walk you through pro tips for painting your home’s exterior, a quick solution for deck-building without digging concrete footings, and attic insulation advice for a more energy-efficient home. Tune in for these and other expert insights to make your next home improvement project a breeze! - Exterior Painting: Prep like a pro when planning your next exterior painting project. - Building a Deck: An easy pedestal support system cuts the hassle of digging deck footings. - Attic Insulation: How to know if you have enough attic insulation to keep your home warm and energy-efficient. Q & A: - Kitchen Sink: Jim wants to insulate his kitchen sink to keep the water warm. We’ve got some ideas on how he can create a way to do it. - Worn Flooring: Dorothy’s engineered flooring is worn in spots. It’s not designed to be refinished, so she’ll need to replace it or install new flooring over it. - Insulation: Joe’s new home has spray foam insulation in the attic. We explain why he doesn’t have to worry about ventilating the attic. - Heat Pump: How often does Ruth’s electric heat pump need to be serviced? We recommend servicing it once a year, and she should consider a heat pump with new technology for colder climates. - Plumbing Leak: Stan’s got a ceiling leak from defective pipes. If the leak continues, he needs to open the ceiling to repair or replace the plumbing. - Concrete Floor: Can Nadine cover an old wood floor with a skim level of concrete? It’s a shame to cover the wood, but a mud floor or laminate flooring are two options. - Water Temperature: Brrrrr! The shower water gets cold when the toilet flushes. Brad should install a pressure balance valve to regulate the mix of hot and cold water. - Garage Renovation: Esther wants to convert a long, skinny garage by switching the doors to the long wall. It’s a big job that requires structural changes to the load-bearing wall. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we’ve got you covered with pro tips on choosing the best contractor, updates on the latest smoke alarm standards, and a step-by-step guide to hassle-free closet organization. Listen in for all the tips, tricks, and tools to bring your home improvement goals to life! - Smoke Detectors: Sound the alarm and protect your home with safer smoke detectors. - Contractors: Nail it the first time by hiring the right professional for your home improvement project. - Closet Space: Less mess means less stress with closet organization that works. Q & A: - Porch Surface: The stain is peeling on Linda’s porch. We recommend removing the loose paint and applying a Daich Coatings product that provides a beautiful, durable finish. - Door Removal: We’ve got tips for Brian on how to remove and replace a door without becoming unhinged. - Damaged Siding: Ivy looks attractive, but it damaged the cedar siding on Lauren’s home. She learns how to restore and repair the damage, plus what to install if she wants to replace the cedar siding. - Hard Water: What kind of conditioning system should be used for hard water? Salt-free is one option, but we advise Brian to use a traditional salt system for a whole home. - Mosquitoes and Fencing: We answer Inuwan’s questions about getting rid of mosquitoes near her cypress trees and fencing options to enclose her garden. - Foggy Windows: Sarah’s sliding glass doors keep fogging up. It’s a common problem caused by a failed thermal seal, but it’s easier to replace the doors instead of repairing them. - Soundproofing: How can Tony muffle the noise from an upstairs neighbor? He’d need to have his neighbor install a sound-resistant underlayment or rugs, or use soft materials to absorb the sound in his own apartment. - Plumbing Vent: Kate’s kitchen plumbing vent is covered and welded across the top. The installer probably forgot to uncover it, but she can leave it alone if it’s not causing issues. - Permits: When do you need permits for a home project? In general, they’re needed for replacements or improvements and not for repairs, but Tyler should ask the local building department. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get tips for a warmer, healthier home by spotting and stopping mold, using a spray foam product to seal drafts and save on heating, and choosing the right window coverings to keep cozy. Got questions? We’ve got all your home improvement answers! - Window Coverings: Stay toasty with the right window coverings for winter warmth. - Mold Prevention: Fight the fungus with 10 tips for spotting and stopping mold in your home. - Sealing Drafts: Seal drafts and cut heating bills with an easy and effective DIY spray foam product. Q & A: - Flower Bed: Michelle wonders if her flower bed will affect her foundation. She should slope the grade away from the house and avoid edging that will impede drainage. - Plumbing: After turning the water back on, Doug has lots of sediment in the plumbing. He should remove and clean out the faucet aerators, then empty and wipe out the toilet tank. - Concrete Repair: Susan’s concrete curb is cracking and sloping down. She has options for products to easily fix the concrete, unless it’s settling and needs to be replaced. - HVAC Options: Should James replace the baseboard heat with an electric furnace? We recommend installing a natural gas furnace that will be less expensive to run. - Painting Brick: Cathy wants to brighten a dark corner by painting the brick fireplace and wall. Some better options would be using mirrors or different kinds of lighting. - Deck Stain: Can you apply solid stain over semi-transparent stain on a deck? Justin should clean the surface well and let it dry before applying the solid stain right over it. - Flooring Repair: Lynette’s floor is worn and soft in some areas from wood rot and mold. She needs a home inspector to determine the cause and the best solution. - Floor Gap: After installing new luxury vinyl plank flooring, Mike has a gap under the door casing. He can add architectural plinth blocks to cover the space. 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, as temperatures cool, learn the importance of servicing your heating system and having your chimney cleaned. You’ll also hear an easy way to stop leaky toilet flushes, plus lots of expert advice for DIY homeowners just like you to get projects done the right way! - Chimney Cleaning: Soot happens, but cleaning your chimney will keep your home safe and smoke-free. - Heating System: Avoid winter woes by having your heating system professionally serviced. - Leaky Toilets: Flush out the problem with this innovative fix for a leaky toilet flush valve. Q & A: - Soundproofing: Noisy neighbors can be heard through a duplex wall. Donna can muffle the sound by adding a second layer of drywall or a noise-proofing compound. - Pool Water: Mac’s pool is green when he uncovers it each spring. Leaving the filter running while it’s covered may strain the equipment, so he should use chemicals to shock the water. - Concrete Repair: Seeping water has cracked a corner of Audrey’s concrete porch. It’s a common problem that’s easily fixed with products that will adhere to the old cement. - Fencing: How should Sam treat the cedar fence posts he’s installing? He should tamp down gravel stone around the posts to allow drainage instead of pouring cement, which will hold moisture. - Windows: Natalie’s old vinyl windows won’t stay up. The springs in the window jams have broken down and are hard to fix, so it may be time to replace the windows. - Basement Water: Water came into the basement after a big storm. Scott gets tips for improving the outside drainage first, then addressing the grading and retaining wall. - Electrical Wiring: Sandra’s very old house has knob and tubing wiring in some areas. It’s very dangerous and should be deactivated and updated as soon as possible. - Bathroom Vanity: How can Nick attach a marble bathroom vanity top to the cabinet base? After doing a dry fit for plumbing, he should apply adhesive to the top edge of the base and caulk against the wall. - Backsplash: Audrey is curious about a product used for backsplashes. It’s a two-sided adhesive material she can stick on the wall first, and then stick tiles to the material. - Deck Stain: How soon can Randy stain a new pressure-treated lumber deck? We recommend waiting till spring to expose it to the elements and let it dry out. 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 install gutter guards yourself and avoid costly pro services, hear expert advice on key homeowner knowledge, and get inspired with ideas for an affordable countertop upgrade in just one weekend. Tune in for tips, tricks, and products that make homeownership a breeze! - Gutter Guards: Installing gutter guards is easy and affordable with step-by-step DIY tips. - Home Maintenance: Find out 5 essential things to know about home maintenance. - Marble Countertops: Countertops get a new look in a weekend with a kit that makes marble dreams come true. Q & A: - Pests: Fruit flies are invading Lorna’s kitchen. She can seal the drain with tape to see if that’s where they’re coming from and if so, pour oxygenated bleach down the drain. - Insulation: Should Michael install closed-cell or open-cell spray foam insulation? Spray foam is a great choice, and closed-cell works better in a moist environment. - Flooring: What kind of flooring is best for a beach house? Loretta’s options include attractive and durable engineered hardwood, laminate, and vinyl plank. - Siding: Wade can’t find replacements that match his siding damaged in a hailstorm. A public adjuster will make sure the insurance company completely replaces all the siding. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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