The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

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 the sources and 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