The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

SHOW NOTES: Today, we reveal how to choose a new garage door that boosts both safety and security. Then, we break down the benefits of buying ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and give tips on early detection of roof leaks to prevent costly repairs. Plus, we answer your top home improvement questions to get your DIY projects done right! Garage Doors: Protect your home by choosing a safe and secure garage door. ENERGY STAR Ratings: Find out why ratings matter when buying appliances that are energy-efficient, reliable, and affordable. Roof Leaks: Stop leaks before they happen by knowing what to look for on your roof. Q & A: Patio Deck: Steve’s floating deck is getting uneven and covers a cistern. He gets tips on taking the deck apart, reframing it with better footings, and adding an access panel. Ceiling Stains: Pat had the roof leak repaired but wants to cover the ceiling stains. Insurance should cover the cost of priming and painting the whole ceiling. Plumbing Pressure: When the shower runs on one floor, the water gets cold on the upper floor. Tammy should check the pipes for corrosion and the water pressure from the street. Garage Insulation: Todd’s garage workspace is getting chilly! Adding spray foam insulation and weatherstripping is a great way to seal and warm up the garage. Stump Removal: A raised garden bed is surrounded by tree stumps. Courtney gets options for removing the stumps with a chainsaw, with chemicals, by burning, or with a small stump grinder. Lighting: When Darrell turns on his kitchen lights, they cause static on his stereo speaker. We don’t have a solution for this odd issue, but we may find answers online. Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees keep coming back even after the area was treated. Louise needs a pest control professional with the right tools and pesticides to guarantee success. Dryer Vent: Cody noticed that the dryer vent in the attic got disconnected. He must find the gap and direct the vent outside because it’s a fire hazard and could cause moisture in his insulation. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us today as we discuss how to save water outdoors during the scorching summer months and highlight the latest advancements that make heat pumps more efficient and cost-effective. We’ll also cover the benefits of metal roofing during an active storm season. Plus, get expert tips on managing lots more DIY home improvement projects! Heat Pumps: New heat pump technology offers energy-efficient heating for any climate. Water Saving Tips: Every drop counts when it comes to saving outdoor water on hot summer days. Metal Roofs: Weather the storm with a metal roof that will stand up to severe conditions. Q & A: Popcorn Ceiling: Can you clean a popcorn ceiling? Nancy should use a feather duster to get rid of dust and cobwebs, then give the ceiling a fresh coat of paint. Solar Panels: John is noticing the production is dropping on his dirty solar panels. He needs to climb up and use a high-pressure hose to clean the pollen off the panels. Moles: Moles are tearing up Michelle’s yard! We recommend treating the lawn to get rid of grubs so she can get rid of the moles. Landscaping: Alex’s home is located on a steep hill. He gets tips on building a retaining wall with specifications from a landscape engineer. Porch Odors: Anna’s unfinished, closed porch has a musty, moldy smell. She needs to pull out any insulation, clean the walls well, and let the space dry and air out completely. Electrical Outlet: An electrical outlet died but no breakers were tripped. Steve should have an electrician check the current and find where to repair a failure on the line. Woodchucks: Darlene is trying to keep woodchucks in check! She can discourage them by removing all woodpiles, spraying hot pepper or predator urine in their dens, and applying repellent to any plants they eat. Tree Roots: Ken is concerned about a tree growing next to the foundation of his home, in an area treated for termites. We recommend carefully cutting away the tree roots. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we dive into pool safety, sharing crucial tips to prevent drownings with layers of protection. Then, we demystify foundation cracks, distinguishing between minor issues and major concerns. Plus, we reveal a quick fix for restoring textured walls and ceilings. And as always, we answer more DIY questions to turn your projects into successes! Foundation Cracks: Worried about foundation cracks? Get tips on knowing if they’re simple or serious. Pool Safety: Guard your kids against drowning with these important layers of pool protection. Textured Surfaces: Repairing textured walls and ceilings is made easy with this DIY product. Q & A: Stone Patio: Dean wants to fill the spaces in his flagstone patio, but mortar will crack from expansion and contraction. Concrete Repair: Linda has two porches on a concrete slab that’s starting to crack. She needs to use silicone caulk to seal out water and gets tips on matching the color. HVAC: Is there a way to direct cool basement air to the upper floors? Jeff learns why it’s not a good idea to circulate basement air that may have moisture and contaminants. Clothes Dryer: Sherry’s dryer does dry the clothes, but they get damp again if they’re left in the dryer overnight. It’s an odd issue that may be caused by humidity in the house. Roof Stains: Dan wants to know how to clean and prevent black streaks on his new roof. We suggest spraying the roof with an easy DIY cleaner and covering the roof ridge with copper flashing to prevent mildew. Cleaning Cabinets: How should Margie clean greasy residue from her kitchen cabinets? We recommend starting with a citrus grease remover. DIY Gutters: Is it hard to install your own gutters? Michael can definitely save money with this DIY project, but he’ll need to carefully join and attach the gutter sections. Humidity: Pat’s new heat pump is not removing the humidity from her home. A heat pump is not designed to do that, but she could consider getting a whole house dehumidifier. Woodburning Stoves: Which woodburning stoves are the most efficient? John gets advice on looking for the EPA performance standards for stoves. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get advice on summertime safety and comfort, including how to beat the summer heat with no-cost to low-cost tips to stay cool, protecting your home from summer roof damage with a DIY roof inspection, and guarding against home burglaries while you’re away on summer vacation. Plus, we’ve got more answers to home improvement questions so you can get your projects done right! Home Security: Lock down peace of mind with these steps to secure your home against break-ins. Cooling Tips: Get low-cost and no-cost tips for keeping your home cool and comfortable. Roof Inspection: Stop leaks before they happen with a DIY roof inspection. Q & A: Cleaning Brick: Gail wants to clean mortar off her exterior brick. We explain how to carefully use a wire brush or a drill attachment without damaging the brick. Deck Stain: The stain is wearing off on John’s deck planks and rails. He gets tips for prepping the surface and using a solid color deck stain that will last longer. Cleaning with Pets: Is there a solution for pet hair that gets all over? David needs to brush his dog often to remove the undercoat of hair and look for a powerful vacuum. Popcorn Ceiling: How can you clean a popcorn ceiling? You can’t, but Margaret finds out how to carefully remove the popcorn ceiling and paint it over. Bathroom Venting: Butch’s bathroom fan vents directly into the attic. We explain how to vent it outside through the siding or up through the roof. Chimney Repair: Lisa’s two chimneys were repaired and repointed, but should they be sealed, too? It’s probably not necessary if there are no leaks. Water Seepage: Water is coming into the garage from an uphill property. Butch gets advice on installing a curtain drain to divert the water. HVAC Leak: Leah has to keep boosting the Freon that leaks from her A/C unit. If she can’t find the source of the leak, she’ll need to consider replacing the system. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we reveal five expert paint tips to expand the feel of your smaller rooms. We’ll also chat about the importance of flexible living spaces in the modern home. And if you’re planning a painting project, we’ll share info about paint sprayers for quick, mess-free results. Let’s turn your to-do list into a done list with answers to these and other home improvement questions from today’s callers! Painting Tips: These 5 strategic painting tips can make small rooms look bigger. Flexible Living Spaces: Find out about the latest trends in flexible living spaces that do double or triple duty. Paint Sprayers: Powerful new DIY paint sprayers let you tackle paint projects faster and more efficiently. Q & A: Roof Leak: Judy’s roof was repaired and the underlayment is fine, but it’s still leaking. We suggest checking the boot and flashing around the plumbing vent pipe. Cleaning Porch: There are white mineral deposits on Tom’s aluminum porch struts. He can use a vinegar and water solution to clean the surface and should look for ways to dehumidify the space. Smoke Smell: The previous owner of Eve’s home was a heavy smoker. We suggest cleaning everything and using a good oil-based primer to seal the ceilings, walls, and floors to get rid of the smoke smell. Sinkhole: A sinkhole is developing over the edge of the septic system. Brian should have a septic inspector check for a failing septic field. Slow Drain: Mary’s bathtub drains slowly but the plumber can’t find the cause. She needs to hire a drain cleaning professional to find and clear the blockage. Deck Stain: What kind of stain should be used for a new deck? Randy should wait a while for the lumber to dry out, and then apply a solid color deck stain that lasts longer. Sink Odor: There’s a foul odor coming from the bathroom sink. We give Yvonne tips for taking apart and scrubbing the drain and trap to get rid of smelly bacteria and bio-gases. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, learn how to refresh your home decor affordably with five practical tips and get four strategies to reduce pool heating costs. Plus, find out the benefits of motion detector spotlights for enhanced home security and convenience. Listen in for answers to these and other home improvement questions on today’s show! Pool Heating: Dive into savings with tips to reduce pool heating costs. Home Decorating: Learn thrifty ways to refresh your home décor without breaking the bank. Motion Detector Lights: Discover the convenience and benefits of outdoor motion security lights. Q & A: Painting Siding: Can you paint aluminum siding? Pat gets tips for power washing and priming the surface for good adhesion before applying a topcoat of paint. Water Heater: Stewart needs advice about replacing his oil water heater with an electric water heater. It’s more expensive to buy but less expensive to run, especially if it has a timer. Lawn Care: Catherine wants to replace sod that never took root. She should start with a soil test to find out how to adjust the soil with the proper fertilizer and lawn care. Deck Stain: How can Gary clean a barbecue grease stain on his deck? If the wood has been stained before, he should use a stain stripper. If not, he needs a deck cleaner. Squirrels: Squirrels have chewed the bird feeder and chased the birds away. Priscella gets suggestions for keeping the squirrels away from the bird feeder. Log Cabin: Gary wants to stain the faded log cabin walls. He should start by cleaning the logs thoroughly, then decide whether to apply a clear sealant or a colored stain. Wood Floors: How can old pine and oak floors be safely cleaned? We recommend a natural cleaning product that Margaret can use without damaging the wood. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show covers practical methods for removing unsightly tree stumps, offers advice on staying cool without skyrocketing utility bills, and presents a technique to extend your roof's lifespan by five years. Plus, listen as we provide expert advice for additional home improvement questions from DIY callers like you! Cooling Costs: Learn how to beat summer heat with hot tips for a cool home and lower utility bills. Stump Removal: Don’t get stumped by the challenge of stump removal after taking down trees. Roof Restoration: Old roofs get new life with an effective Roof Maxx treatment to restore worn roof shingles without roof replacement. Q & A: Patio Repair: Alicia’s cement slab patio has a crack that’s getting wider. We recommend using a crack repair product and considering an attractive paver brick that’s designed to go on top of the slab. Roof Moss: What’s the best way to remove and prevent moss on the roof? Glen should apply a mildewcide spray and install copper flashing at the peak of the roof to prevent moss. Cracked Driveway: Should Karen repair or replace her cracked concrete driveway? She can use an easy concrete repair product, but if the surface shifts, the cracks will reappear. Mold Removal: William has mold on the walls and ceiling of his cabin. He should carefully use oxygenated bleach products to thoroughly clean off the mold, but will need to maintain and ventilate the cabin. Countertops: Frankie gets information about a DIY weekend project to refinish old laminate countertops and give them the look of a beautiful stone surface. Vinyl Siding: The vinyl siding is buckling on Earl’s house. The shingles were installed too tightly, so he must remove the siding and reattach them to allow space for expansion. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, learn how to avoid costly mistakes when building your backyard deck. We’ll also provide tips on designing an efficient and functional kitchen layout, plus share info on a powerful and convenient solution for summer power outages. Tune in for expert advice to help you tackle all your home improvement challenges with confidence! Kitchen Design: Get professional tips for smart design in your dream kitchen. Building a Deck: Watch out for making these costly mistakes when building a deck. Backup Power: This portable battery backup is a quiet and easy solution for summer power outages. Q & A: Brick Steps: How can Mia remove carpet that’s glued onto brick steps? She’ll need an adhesive remover to soften and scrape off the glue and we suggest applying thin pavers or exterior ceramic tiles on top of the steps. Chimney Repair: Moisture is getting into a chimney that’s losing stucco. Anthony should remove any loose stucco and use a repair product that will adhere to concrete and brick. Countertops: Jason’s renovating his kitchen and needs inexpensive options for his countertops. We’ve got info on durable DIY products that can create the look of stone countertops. Foundation: There are cracks in the concrete slab and the kitchen is starting to dip. Rochelle should hire a structural engineer to determine how to make the best repairs. Carpenter Bees: Carpenter bees have invaded Kevin’s porch and fence! He needs a pest control professional and should replace the wood with PVC materials. Water Damage: Dewey’s basement stinks from a prior sewage backup. We’ve got tips on tearing out the drywall, wiring, outlets, and flooring and having a remediation company treat the problem. Flooring Polish: Is French polish a good option for refinishing hardwood floors? Theresa learns that it’s a beautiful finish but not very durable for a busy household. Efficient Windows: How energy-efficient are low-E windows? We confirm that low-E glass coating will reflect the sun’s UV rays and make a big difference in Bruce’s energy bills. Rust Stains: Metal railings have left rust stains on Tamra’s pavers. We recommend using natural acid products like lemon juice or vinegar or certain chemical products. Musty Odors: Bryan’s crawlspace gets a musty odor in the summer when he’s away. Humidity builds when the house is closed up, so he could use an exhaust fan with a humidistat and check the exterior drainage to reduce moisture. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get tips for indoor and outdoor safety as we reveal the critical signs of gas leaks and how to prevent them, plus the unique requirements of pool fencing to keep your pool area secure. Then, learn foolproof tips for repairing drywall issues once and for all. Tune in and let us help you tackle all your home improvement projects! Pool Fence: Swimming safety starts with this important pool fence checklist to protect kids from danger. Gas Leaks: Learn the signs of dangerous gas leaks and how to avoid them. Drywall Repairs: Get tips for common drywall repairs like nail pops, holes, and cracks. Q & A: Pool Deck: Barb’s pool deck has cracks and exposed rebar. It can be repaired, but she gets advice to beware of upselling tactics by pool contractors. Uneven HVAC: The downstairs is cold and the upstairs is warm. Michael’s HVAC contractor should have done a heat loss analysis to balance the airflow. Building a Patio: Can Courtney build a brick patio in an area with tree roots? We suggest building a deck on an above-grade platform to keep it level. Roofing Insulation: Should Kevin install a metal or an asphalt roof and what kind of insulation does he need? Metal roofs are a great investment and closed-cell spray foam insulation is excellent. Windows: Sally’s large double-pane windows are fogging up from failed seals that allow moisture inside. They can’t be repaired but it doesn’t affect their efficiency. Loose Tiles: Floor tiles are coming loose in Tony’s hallway. We have tips for lifting, regrouting, and resetting the loose tiles. Gutters: It’s hard to find replacements for wooden gutters that are deteriorating. George gets recommendations for buying fiberglass gutters to match the style of wood gutters. Grouting: Victoria really doesn’t want to regrout the entire shower! She can just pull out the areas of loose grout, but it may be hard to match the existing grout color. Insulation: Trevor wants to replace and insulate the tongue and groove boards on the ceiling. He won’t need a moisture barrier if he’s using spray foam insulation. Toilet Plumbing: The toilet makes a bubbling sound and doesn’t flush completely. It sounds like Barbara has a partial obstruction and should try using a toilet auger to clear it. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Listen in as we discuss the allure of natural stone countertops vs. the upkeep they demand, five critical home filters that play a vital role in home health and efficiency, and how a timely roof inspection can prevent leaks and costly repairs. Plus, we have expert tips to help callers with more home improvement questions on this Money Pit episode! Stone Countertops: Get the stone-cold facts on the pros and cons of natural stone countertops. Filters: These are the top 5 most important filters you should be checking for home health and efficiency. Roof Maintenance: These roof inspection tips will help protect against damaging roof leaks. Q & A: Water Pressure: Just one faucet in Tommy’s house has very low water pressure. It could be a blockage in the faucet aerator or the screen from the water line, or a faulty valve. Tile Floor: The tiles over Barbara’s heated floor are shifting and grout is coming out. She can either repair them as needed or remove and replace the tiles and heating coils. Gutters: It’s hard to reach old built-in gutters that are backing up. We explain how Paul can build out a pitched roof section over the gutters and install new, larger gutters. Driveway Repair: Are there options for restoring an old asphalt driveway? After 38 years, we agree it’s time for Susan to rip it up and have a new driveway poured. Shower Valve: Craig gets advice about rebuilding his shower valves and fixtures rather than going through the shared wall that separates them from another bathroom. Leaking Pipe: Sherilynn’s pool has a leak in the pipe going to the pump. It would be easier to replace an underground line rather than digging down to expose and repair it. Feral Cats: Feral cats in the backyard have become a real problem. Jeff may want to reach out for help from organizations that humanely trap, neuter, or rescue animals. Vinyl Flooring: Can Angela paint the old vinyl kitchen flooring that is yellowed and nicked? It’s not a good idea, but there are affordable flooring options she can consider. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’ll help you prevent pesky mosquitoes from ruining your summer nights. Plus, we’ll share how to reverse sun damage on your roof to extend its life, and why reclaimed lumber could be your next sustainable and cost-effective home improvement project. Get answers to these and other questions from DIYers just like you! Mosquitoes: Stop unwanted pests from buzzing your BBQ with tips for eliminating mosquitoes. Roof Restoration: There’s a way to reverse sun damage and extend the life of your dried-out roof. Reclaimed Lumber: Discover the charm and benefits of using reclaimed lumber for home décor. Q & A: Sump Pump: Sharon’s furnace is pulling sewer gas from the sump pump. If it’s coming through the drain line, she should install a P-trap and fill it with water to stop air in the pipe. Exterior Door: Water is coming through the side of an exterior door. Jim should see if the door is evenly hung and look for gaps with a flashlight. Squirrels: A squirrel in the basement drop ceiling is making Alison nuts! We explain how to humanely trap the squirrel and release it outside. Old Deck: It’s time for Michael to replace an old wood deck. We suggest using pressure-treated wood for the substructure and composite materials for the boards and rails. Indoor Moisture: Judy found some moisture on the wall paneling and gets tips for reducing indoor humidity with improved exterior drainage and a whole house dehumidifier. Flooring: After Bob’s house flooded and the floor was replaced, the new floor tiles started coming apart. He’ll need to remove the flooring and reinstall it correctly. Painting Siding: How do you paint vinyl siding? David gets advice on applying a high-bond primer for better adhesion and using a paint sprayer for better coverage. Moldy Smell: The room above the garage has a moldy smell after it rains. Gail needs to improve the ventilation and reduce the humidity in the garage. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Listen in as we dive into the essentials of designing an amazing outdoor kitchen for your backyard gatherings and then discuss how metal roofs can significantly reduce your cooling costs. Plus, learn how to safely clean up and repair broken windows, and get helpful answers to lots more home improvement questions for all your DIY projects! Outdoor Kitchen: Get ready to sizzle in style with tips for designing an ideal outdoor kitchen. Metal Roofs: Find out why metal roofing is a cool choice for energy efficiency. Window Repair: Broken windows can be a pain in the glass, but here’s how to fix them safely. Q & A: Painting Stucco: The paint on Terry’s stucco exterior didn’t last long. She gets tips on applying primer, the best temperature for paint projects, and using a paint sprayer. Mold Odors: Carolyn can’t get rid of a moldy smell in her kitchen cabinet. We suggest where to look for hidden mold and how to seal the surface with a clear finish. Solar Panels: Should solar panels be installed on the roof or away from the house? Albert gets advice about the lifespan of the roof and seeking open areas for the solar panels. Countertops: Linda gets step-by-step details about a product to refinish old, dark Formica countertops. Electrical: Marcie’s air conditioner keeps tripping the circuit breaker. She may need an electrician to run a dedicated circuit with the proper size wiring. Crown Molding: Installing crown molding above kitchen cabinets can be tricky, but Brian gets tips on how to attach the molding securely without splitting the wood. Soundproofing: Darlene wants to silence the noise between the upstairs and downstairs apartments. Mineral wool insulation and sound-deadening drywall will keep things quiet. Bathtub Repair: There’s no easy way to fix cracks in an old bathtub, but Bill can use a fiberglass repair kit as a temporary solution before renovating or installing a tub insert. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Looking for privacy? Today, we'll explore natural landscaping screens over traditional fencing. Plus, discover the benefits of metal roofing for summer replacements and learn how to easily renovate your stairs for a fresh interior look. Listen in for info to create your best home ever, with tips for projects both big and small! - Stairs: Stepping up the style of your outdated stairs is a great DIY project for home design. - Privacy Screen: Landscaped privacy screens are a natural alternative to building a fence. - Metal Roofs: If you’re thinking about roof replacement, find out the unique benefits of installing a metal roof. Q & A: - Shady Garden: Janet is having a hard time growing plants in the shade. We suggest some plant varieties she can try that thrive in shady gardens. - Cabinets: Brian wants to paint his oak wood cabinets white. He’ll need to strip off the finish, sand the surface, and use an oil-based primer to fill the grain before painting. - Roof Rejuvenation: What’s the best way to extend the life of an old shingle roof? Kelly gets recommendations about the effectiveness of Roof Maxx treatments. - Electrical: Is it worth upgrading 150 amp electrical service to 200 amps? We don’t think it’s necessary unless Alice is really using a lot more power in her home. - Kitchen Flooring: William wants to install bamboo flooring in the kitchen. It’s an excellent choice, along with options like cork flooring or vinyl planks for a different look. - Exterior Paint: The exterior paint on Helen’s house is bubbling up after just two months. The contractor should come back to make sure it’s primed correctly before painting it again. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, discover the beauty of eco-friendly natural in-ground pools. We'll also share tips on spotting roof leaks early and how the right tools can make painting projects a breeze. We're here to help you plan, save, and avoid mishaps with answers to these and other home improvement questions! - Natural Inground Pools: Transform your yard into an eco oasis with a natural inground pool. - Roof Leaks: Find out the clues for spotting a roof leak before it becomes a problem. - DIY Painting: Advances in tools make big painting projects faster and easier for any DIYer. Q & A: - Mold: Andrea has mold between the sink and backsplash and around the tub. We explain the best way to clean and recaulk those areas to keep mildew from returning. - Tree Roots: Tree roots growing close to the surface make it hard to mow. Harris gets some ideas for landscaping or creating a bench around the tree. - Leaks: Water comes under the wood where Martha replaced her glass doors. She should have added a concrete block instead, and must redirect the water that’s pooling against the foundation. - Water Heater: Steve’s electric water heater is leaking, but he can’t replace it with a tankless water heater. A heat pump water heater costs more but is a good and more efficient option. - Wood Columns: Beth is having trouble painting wood columns in front of her home. We discuss ways to make it easier or replacing them with composite columns that won’t rot. - Basement Moisture: There is moisture seeping in a corner of Jeremy’s finished block basement. He can solve the problem by improving the drainage and grading outside the house. - Basement Floor: What kind of floor is best to install in a basement? Mary should give up the carpet and replace it with laminate or engineered hardwood flooring. - Floor Gaps: There are gaps where the bottom of the baseboard meets the wood floor. Tim should add shoe molding around the room to match the baseboard or the floor. - Painting Cedar: We offer advice to Beverly on using an oil-based primer and a solid stain to match her cedar posts to the white trim of her house. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Stay safe and secure with information about building a safe backyard playground for kids, battery technology to guard against power loss, and fences that add privacy, security, and style. Plus, get answers to more home improvement questions for your next DIY project! - Playground: Play it safe by building a fun backyard playground with kids’ safety in mind. - Generators: New battery technology protects against power outages. - Fences: Good fences make good neighbors, so get tips on putting up the perfect fence. Q & A: - Tile Flooring: Why is there condensation on the ceramic tile floor? Annette gets advice on reducing the indoor humidity that’s bringing warm air against the cold floor. - Electrical: Steve is concerned that none of his kitchen outlets are grounded, but it’s not certain. A good electrician is needed to do an evaluation and identify any issues. - Clothes Closet: Heavy clothes have bowed the rod and pulled the brackets away from the closet wall. Bea learns how to strongly secure the brackets, shelf, and rod. - Patio vs. Deck: Bill is trying to decide between building a concrete patio or a wood deck. They’d be similar in price, but the concrete patio would last much longer. - Tree Roots: Should Lynn worry about the pear tree roots near her house foundation? They shouldn’t pose a problem and she’d see signs of any damage beforehand. - Pool Deck: Howard is painting his concrete pool deck and doesn’t want it to be slippery. He gets tips for prepping the surface and applying an anti-slip coating paint. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get ideas to upgrade your deck with stylish, budget-friendly trends and learn how to add a leak-proof skylight to brighten up your home. Also, discover a new product that can extend your aging roof's lifespan and get answers to more home improvement questions from Money Pit’s expert team in this episode! - Skylights: The sky’s the limit when it comes to installing leak-free skylights to brighten up your home. - Deck Space: Add style to your outdoor living with these affordable trends for backyard deck space. - Roof Repair: Old roofs gain new life with a rejuvenation treatment at a fraction of the cost of roof replacement. Q & A: - Bathtub Cleaning: Mary gets tips on how to remove bathtub rust stains through light abrasion with an auto rubbing compound. - Duct Cleaning: Is duct cleaning really necessary? It’s generally not needed unless Steve has done some heavy renovation, but we do advise using quality air filters. - Washing Machine: Why is the washing machine making that banging noise? Holly gets tips on leveling the appliance, using anti-vibration pads, and installing a water hammer arrestor. - Toilet Valve: The shut-off valve handle broke off behind Greg’s toilet. We explain how to easily replace it with PEX fittings, even if he needs to cut into the drywall. - Deck Cleaning: Is there a recipe for a solution to clean decks? Nancy learns how to mix a bleach, detergent, and water solution to apply with a stiff brush. - Balcony Railing: Jonas wants to replace his surface-mounted railing with a flush-mounted one, but we don’t think it’s worth removing the gutter to gain such a small amount of space. - Structural Beams: Bill wants to hang a projection screen in his basement, but was surprised to find steel beams in the wall. He gets ideas for what to do next. - Sandbox: Laurie is excited about creating a sandbox for her grandkids, but asks if she should look for an alternative to sand. Sand is not a problem and a cover will protect it from animals and rain. - Windows: Condensation inside Don’s double-pane windows is causing mildew. He’ll need to clean and maintain them until he’s ready to get replacement windows. - Water Pressure: Krista has a shared well but her water pressure is much lower than her neighbor’s. She gets advice on looking for a restriction somewhere in her plumbing. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn why homes built in factories can be better constructed and more energy-efficient than traditional builds. Then, prepare your A/C for summer with our service tips and pre-check methods and simplify painting projects with innovative high-efficiency airless paint sprayers. Plus, get answers to more home improvement questions from DIYers just like you! - Air Conditioning: Be ready to beat the summer heat by testing your air conditioning system. - Factory-Built Homes: Learn why manufactured homes can be better than homes built on-site. - Paint Sprayers: Painting projects are made easy with new, high-efficiency paint sprayers. Q & A: - Heating: How to heat a converted laundry room and bedroom? Paul’s most affordable option would be an electric baseboard heater with a timer, but we’ve got other ideas, too. - Countertops: Carolyn didn’t expect dull spots on her quartz countertops, but it’s an absorbent surface that needs to be maintained and polished every two or three years. - Roofing: Condensation is staining Kent’s bathroom ceiling. He should check and replace the rubber boot around the roof vent before priming and repainting the ceiling. - Unused Pool: Dorothy’s not using her huge inground pool and wants to use the space. We explain the steps involved in disconnecting the systems and filling the pool with dirt. - Painting: Edward is painting the bathroom but is worried about harmful fumes around his baby. We offer tips for airing out the house and using safer solvent-based products. - HVAC: Amber’s loft is always much warmer than the rest of the house. She should reverse the direction of the ceiling fans to pool cool air from downstairs and consider installing a supplemental split ductless system. - Flooring: How can you restore the shine to dull marble floors? Ron gets recommendations for some good DIY products that clean and polish stone surfaces. - Smoke Odors: The previous owner left stinky smoke odors behind! Courtney has done just about everything, but she can also try sealing the subfloors or using a filtration system and an electronic air cleaner. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we explore a special type of roof that helps keep your home cool. We'll also discuss the buzz around backyard honeybee hives and, if you're hosting an open house, how to stage your home to attract buyers. Whether it's a renovation, repair, or home décor, listen in for more expert tips and inspiration to help with your next home improvement project! - Bee Hives: Backyard bee hives are all the buzzy for producing homemade honey and beeswax. - Cool Roofs: Keep cool and save on energy costs with cool roof technology. - Home Staging: Market your home to interested buyers with these important home staging tips. Q & A: - Lighting: Pete wants to install can lights on the first floor. An electrician would be more experienced in fishing wiring through the ceiling, laying out the lights, and getting power to the lines and switches. - Siding: What is the best way to seal and protect cedar siding on Lynne’s old house? Boiled linseed oil or a solid color stain are two good options for UV and weather protection. - Level Flooring: A crack in the concrete slab has widened and the floor is dipping. Rachel needs a structural engineer to see if it’s a structural or cosmetic issue. - Busted Plumbing: A rogue raccoon busted the water line! We advise Brian to hire a public adjuster to have the repairs covered by insurance and done correctly. - Basement Water: Mary paid a lot of money to a shameless contractor after getting water in her basement. We offer tips on improving the exterior drainage to keep things dry. - Dimmer Lights: Richard is looking for a floor or table lamp with a dimmer switch. He can buy a regular lamp instead and plug it into a dimmer switch outlet. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we'll uncover how to find and eliminate hidden germs in your home. Then, learn about a home improvement company dedicated to finding permanent homes for children in foster care. And if your landscaping is giving you a headache, we've got tips on choosing hassle-free shrubs. We’re here to help with all your DIY projects, so listen in for more answers to your home improvement questions! - House Cleaning: Keep your home healthy and clean by finding germs that are hiding in plain sight. - Safe Homes: This home improvement company is dedicated to finding safe, forever homes for foster kids. - Easy-Care Shrubs: Sprucing up your outdoor space is easy with low-maintenance shrubs. Q & A: - Garage Construction: Sandy needs suggestions for building a new garage. An architect could design ideas that fit her home and the surrounding neighborhood. - Electrical Wiring: Gary wants to change one existing light to two fixtures on either side of the bathroom mirror. It’s an easy project for an electrician to split the wiring. - Floor Stains: There are pet stains and odors in Merilyn’s wood floors. She gets tips on how to sand, vacuum, stain, and finish the floors to hide the stains and seal the odors. - Insulation: White moldy areas are appearing on the radiant barrier insulation in Ed’s attic. We explain to Ed why it’s not very effective and could be trapping moisture. - Tile Floor: Is there a way to fill cracks and chips in a tile floor and refinish the surface? It may not be worth the time and effort, so Margaret should consider replacing the tile or installing a laminate floor over it. - Cracked Bathtub: Tim’s new bathtub already has two cracks. It’s a big job to remove it, but using a fiberglass repair product from an auto shop could buy him some time. - Home Addition: Joan wants to add an enclosed space over the patio for her cats. It’s a large project and she should consult a professional to design the proper specifications to build an addition. - GFCI Outlets: John wants to install GFCI bathroom outlets. Rather than remove the existing outlets that are tiled in place, he can make the entire circuit in the electrical panel ground fault-protected. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices