The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we reveal simple tricks to keep pesky crickets out of your house and how to decide if a new furnace is worth the investment. We also introduce an innovative product that makes fixing leaky toilets even easier, and answer home improvement questions to make your other DIY projects easier, too! - Crickets: Stop the chirp with these tips for cricket control inside and outside your home. - Heating Systems: Turn up the heat on savings with the right upgrade to your heating system. - Leaky Toilet: An innovative product will have you flushed with success when it comes to repairing leaky toilet valves. Q & A: - Wax Stains: Sandy spilled hot wax on the carpet and furniture, but learns a neat hack for using a hot iron and a brown paper bag to remove the wax stain. - Wall Tile: Does John need to replace the greenboard before retiling the bathroom walls? We recommend installing cement board instead, which will last indefinitely. - Security: Colin wants a secure vault door for the reinforced cinderblock room he’s building. We suggest installing a heavy-duty commercial steel door with deadbolts. - Sink Odor: There’s a bad smell coming from just one sink in Terry’s house. She gets tips on using oxygenated bleach and a bottle brush to clean bio-gases from the drain. - HVAC System: Bob’s original hydro-air heating system is working fine, but there’s some condensation on the pump. That’s not unusual and he should keep having it serviced so it can last even longer. - Lead Removal: How should Margaret remove ceramic tiles that contain lead? She would need an EPA-certified professional, or else she can recoat the tile with an epoxy finish to seal the surface. - Plumbing: The shower water temperature constantly needs readjusting. Pat should install a pressure balance valve to regulate the imbalance between hot and cold water. - Attic Insulation: Abraham has questions about ventilating a hot attic that has spray foam insulation and the effect on his air conditioning. He should check to see if enough insulation was installed. - Bathtub Finish: The bathtub finish is wearing off and stained. Peggy won’t be able to touch up just those areas, but she could use a product to refinish the entire surface. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, discover 10 low-dust home improvement projects, learn how to easily fix textured walls or ceilings, and find out how to eliminate sink odors with a simple hack. Plus, listen in as we offer expert answers to other home improvement questions from DIY callers! - Home Renovation: Get ideas for 10 wreck-less home renovations that don’t require demolition. - Textured Surfaces: Repair textured walls and ceilings easily and without the mess. - Sink Odors: Learn how to send stinky sink odors down the drain with this simple solution. Q & A: - Refinishing Furniture: Sherry learns how to give an old wood dresser a new look by stripping off the paint and staining the surface. - Wood Flooring: What should Andrew use to refinish his oak floor after sanding it? We recommend applying three coats of a clear oil-based polyurethane to restore the shine. - Building a Deck: Cheryl wants to build a deck over a concrete slab, but that’s not a good foundation. She should break up the concrete and install proper footings. - Insulation: The wall on the west side of Mike’s house gets very warm. We suggest installing an awning to deflect the sun or adding foam insulation and a layer of drywall. - Fence Materials: What is the best material for building a fence in a moist area? Metal posts should be fine, but Hope can also use wood posts with stones instead of concrete footings. - Woodchucks: Woodchucks are digging holes all over Al’s property. We have tips on luring them with fruit in a humane trap and then releasing them far away. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, get advice on selecting the perfect paint colors, when to call in the pros for hardwood floor refinishing, and how to detox your mattress for a healthier sleep. Plus, we’re here to answer home improvement questions with helpful tips to help you tackle your projects like a pro! - Mattress Care: Get tips on detoxing your mattress to avoid sleeping on a bed of bacteria. - Paint Colors: Color your world by picking the right paint color for every project. - Hardwood Floors: Know when to step aside and let a professional refinish your hardwood floors. Q & A: - Toilet Leak: Fred’s toilet won’t stop leaking, even after many attempts to fix it. The gasket may not have been replaced correctly, so we suggest using silicone to seal each connection. - Painting Brick: Mary wants to paint her brick fireplace, but she may want to think twice and decorate around the brick instead, because painting brick can be a challenge. - Replacing Grout: The grout is crumbling in Steve’s bluestone stoop. He gets step-by-step advice for removing the old grout and replacing it with new mortar. - Cedar Siding: Does Lindsey need to replace the house wrap under her cedar siding? It’s not necessary, and we offer tips on an easier way to clean the cedar shingles. - Baseboard Heating: How many feet of baseboard do you need to heat a room? Paul should use calculation programs or apps to determine the right size and how much heat his home needs. - Wood Paneling: How can Rebecca give a new look to her wood paneling? Her best options are to prime and paint the paneling or cover it with a layer of drywall. - Odors: Jim can’t get rid of the bad odor in his new home. Unless it’s a dead rodent, it’s probably bio-gases from bacteria that he needs to clean from the traps of his sinks and drains. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we’ll offer tips for a successful home addition, reveal a surprisingly easy method to build stone features like fire pits and garden beds, and discuss the benefits of upgrading your electric panel. Plus, we’ve got expert advice for callers with home improvement questions you’ll want to hear! - Electrical System: Find out 5 shocking reasons to stay current with an electrical panel upgrade. - Outdoor Masonry Ideas: Building outdoor features is as easy as stacking blocks with this innovative DIY system. - Home Additions: These are 3 things to consider when planning the right home addition. Q & A: - Pest Control: Cody is looking for an affordable way to control scorpions and bugs. Natural products like boric acid, cedar oil, and lavender plants are possible options. - Roof and Attic Fan: Should Mary replace the attic fan with a new roof? We recommend using a ridge vent instead of an attic fan, but she can still use a whole-house fan. - Popping Nails: Nails keep popping through the sheetrock. Bob should use screws instead, or overlap the head of the original nail with a second one to hold it in. - Wildlife: Chipmunks are getting inside Linda’s steel building. We suggest adding siding material to cover any gaps and using spray foam insulation to fill them. - Outdoor Septic: Peter’s soil stack vent freezes solid in winter. He should insulate the pipe up to the point where it exits the roof. - Ceiling Mold: A roof leak left a mold stain on Wendy’s ceiling. She can clean it with a bleach solution, then use a good primer before repainting the ceiling. - Water Heater: Harry is curious about tankless water heaters, but he should look at heat pump water heaters instead since he has an electrical system. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’ll give you four reasons to reconsider painting your exposed brick, and if you’re buying a new house, we reveal which builder upgrades are worth the investment and which ones you should DIY. Also, get advice on illuminating dark corners of your home. Plus, listen in for answers to home improvement questions for all kinds of DIY projects! - Painting Brick: Before painting your exposed brick, find out 4 solid reasons why you shouldn’t. - Home Upgrades: When building a new home, find out which upgrades make sense and when to DIY. - Lighting: Expert tips shed light on how to brighten a home for style and safety. Q & A: - Light Switch: After installing new LED bulbs, Pammy’s light fixture doesn’t work at all. The problem is with her light switch, not the bulb. - Old Cabinets: What is the best way to strip and refinish old kitchen cabinets? Bob gets step-by-step instructions on how to clean, strip, and stain wood cabinets. - Damaged Floor: Lisa is feeling soft sunken spots under her carpet. She should pull back the carpet to check for structural damage and see if the padding is breaking down. - Window Leak: Adam has a leak in the bay window under a skylight. We suggest ways to divert water running down the roof above the skylight and around the window. - Discolored Brick Wall: A brick retaining wall is turning white from ground moisture that’s pulling up, evaporating, and leaving mineral deposits. Eunice can clean the efflorescence easily with white vinegar. - Epoxy Paint: Judy tried to apply epoxy paint to the basement floor but it kept coming up. She should contact the manufacturer to see if it’s an unusual chemical reaction. - Architects: Who should Linda consult about adding a bathroom and hobby room to an old farmhouse? We recommend consulting with a few architects to maintain the building’s style and structural integrity. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn how to lower cooling costs and protect furnishings from UV damage with window films, and get inspired with DIY ideas for upgrading your home’s curb appeal. Plus, we’ll share how to customize outdoor features with creative building blocks. Listen in for all this and answers to more home improvement questions from callers! - Window Films: Window films are an effective defense against heat, glare, and UV damage inside your home. - Home Exteriors: Add beauty and value to your home exterior with DIY upgrades to add curb appeal. - RumbleStone Building Blocks: DIY building blocks make it easy to create custom outdoor features. Q & A: - Hanging Shelves: Wall shelves are a great DIY project to save space! Ellie learns about choosing the right shelf size, style, and anchoring options. - Vintage Walls: James discovered beautiful old solid chestnut boards when the wallpaper was removed. It’s a rare find that can be preserved and matched to the home décor. - Cracked Floor Tiles: Can hairline cracks in ceramic floor tiles be repaired? Unfortunately not, but Valerie gets creative ideas for removing and replacing the tiles. - Patio Roof and Floor: We have answers to Bob’s questions about extending a roof over an enclosed deck and installing tile flooring on the patio. - Bathtub Liner: Peg wonders about refinishing an outdated fiberglass bathtub surround. Paint and reglazing aren’t the best options, so it may be better to tear it out and start over. - Sealing a Deck: What is the best way to prep and seal a wood deck? Tom should clean it thoroughly, remove any loose finish, and apply a solid stain to seal and protect it. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, explore clever storage solutions in overlooked areas of your home, learn how to build deck steps the right way to ensure safety and durability, and get the scoop on why tackling large paint projects is simpler than you might think. Plus, listen in as we answer more home improvement questions from DIYers just like you! - Deck Steps: Learn the ups and downs of building safe and solid steps for your deck. - Storage: Find hidden storage areas in your home by knowing where to look. - Paint Projects: Big paint projects are made easier with a high-efficiency paint sprayer. Q & A: - Wet Foundation: Lynn has water gushing around the pipe in her basement wall. She should use silicone to seal gaps around the pipe inside and outside, then improve the outdoor drainage in that area. - Vent Fan Draft: Cold wind blows in through the vent fan over David’s range. He should check the gasket and the door springs, or try surrounding the outside port with a frame to block the wind. - Painting Vinyl: Maureen’s vinyl window frames are faded and chalky, but she can paint them by using vinyl-safe paint colors after prepping the surface. - Windows and Insulation: A lot of energy is lost through Darryl’s big old single-pane windows. He definitely needs more attic insulation and can either replace the windows or install solar shades to redirect the heat. - Pavestone Patio: Jean asks how to put pavers over her concrete patio. Using the right product makes it easy to do by gluing down the pavers and sweeping sand into the joints. - Baseboard Covers: Steve gets tips on removing and refinishing his worn baseboard heating covers, and why it’s a better option than replacing them. - HVAC Mold: Betty is finding mold in all different places. If it’s really mold and not condensation, she should have the HVAC system inspected to see if it’s in the ducts. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get curb appeal tips to boost your home’s value and sell it faster. Then, learn a common pitfall with roof-mounted solar systems and how to avoid it. Finally, find out clever ways to make your kitchen countertops more functional and efficient. Plus, hear answers to callers’ questions to make DIY home improvement projects simple and successful! - Curb Appeal: Boosting curb appeal can seal the deal when selling your home. - Solar Systems: Find out why metal roofs are a great option for roof-mounted solar systems. - Kitchen Counters: Work smarter by making your kitchen counters more functional. Q & A: - Floor Support: Laura needs more support under her old kitchen floor for heavy appliances. Installing a girder beam will add strength and prevent floor bounce. - Natural Gas: Abram wants to run a gas line for his dryer. He’ll need a plumber to tap into the existing gas line to ensure it’s done safely. - Shower Pan: A tub converted to a handicap-accessible shower needs extra support. Mel learns how to mix cement under the fiberglass shower pan to provide a solid base. - Foundation: To add a garage or carport to a house on a slope, Andrew should have an architect spec out how to excavate around the supporting wall and run steel beams while the work is being done. - Vinyl Siding: Should Beverly use screws or nails to install vinyl siding? We explain why it’s important to use nails and install them properly to allow for expansion of the siding. - Concrete Repair: Joe wants to repair a painted concrete surface. We suggest cleaning it well, then using a crack repair product and adding a layer of epoxy paint. - Freon Leak: Freon keeps leaking from Leah’s HVAC unit. She needs to focus on finding and fixing the leak, or else changing to a different refrigerant. - Plumbing Odor: What is causing the sewer odor in Ted’s bathroom? He should check to see if the traps are properly installed and vented, and use oxygenated bleach to eliminate bio-gases in the drain. - Smoke Odors: The previous homeowner left stinky cigarette smoke odors behind. Lois must use an oil-based primer on the walls and subfloors to seal the surfaces before painting them. - Heated Flooring: What kind of flooring can you install over a heated concrete floor? We recommend that Russ check manufacturers’ specifications for flooring products designed for heat. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us today for tips on transforming your yard into a dog-friendly paradise and choosing the perfect BBQ grill as summer sales heat up. We’ll also discuss an easy-to-clean Epoxy Floor Coating Kit for your concrete floors and share expert home improvement advice with other DIY callers just like you! - Pet-Friendly Spaces: Get some fetching ideas on how to design a dog-friendly yard. - BBQ Grills: Check these hot tips on what to look for when buying a new BBQ grill. - Epoxy Floors: Discover the beauty of easy-to-clean epoxy floor finishes. Q & A: - Painting Siding: Can you paint vinyl siding? Michael learns specific steps to properly clean, prime, and paint his vinyl siding, plus recommendations for colors and applications. - Wood Playground: Erin’s wood swingset is cracking and turning black. Pressure-treated wood is not the best option, but she can scrub the surface and use a solid color stain. - French Drain: Standing rainwater is affecting the walls of Andrew’s home on a hill. He needs to build a French drain to divert water around the house. - Ceiling Paint: Can Blair use water-based paint over the oil-based paint on her deck ceiling? We recommend priming it first and then using a solid stain or a flat paint. - Mold Control: Dan gets advice on how to reduce moisture and prevent mold by ventilating and dehumidifying his unheated pole building. - Floor Moisture: Water is coming up from the concrete slab under the laminate floor. Michelle should check the outside drainage and install a fan with a humidistat. - Soundproofing: Jerry wants to convert an upstairs bedroom into a movie room and gets tips on adding soundproofing drywall or Green Glue noise-proofing sealant to the ceiling. - Fascia Board: Martin wants to fix the fascia board that’s separating between her porch ceiling and the overhang. It’s easy to resecure it with screws instead of nails. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us today to hear tips on giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look without spending a fortune, learn about innovative air vents that double as design elements, and uncover a fast solution for fixing textured walls and ceilings. And as always, we’re here with answers to your latest home improvement questions to help get your DIY projects done! - Kitchen Cabinets: Cook up a new look for your kitchen cabinets with these budget-friendly options. - Air Vents: Function meets fashion when HVAC air vents become beautiful design features. - Textured Surfaces: Get a smooth solution for rough repairs of textured walls and ceilings with this DIY product. Q & A: - Linoleum Flooring: What kind of kitchen flooring can be used over old sheet linoleum? Patrilla has lots of options, including engineered vinyl plank and laminate flooring. - Concrete Repair: Robert gets how-to advice on how to remove and repair a spacer that washed away on his concrete walkway. - Cedar Siding: Cindy’s cedar shingle siding was stained but is now fading. Priming the siding and applying a new coat of solid color stain will last longer than paint. - Porch Columns: Mike wants to change the look of the tall columns on his porch but can’t find replacements. He should consult an architect for a new design that will still offer structural support. - Carpenter Ants: A big tree infested with carpenter ants was taken down close to Anna’s house. We reassure her that they’re not likely to start coming into her home. - Water Odor: There’s a rotten egg smell in Dave’s house and the bathroom fixtures are all rusty. He should have the well water tested and check the water heater anode rod. - Kitchen Sink: Kathy is used to having a double sink in the kitchen, but learns about the advantages of having a single bowl sink that provides more room for washing large items. - Insulation: Is it necessary to have a vapor barrier for a second-story drop ceiling with insulation above it? We agree it’s not something Norm needs. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: On today’s show, we dispel common home improvement myths, provide easy fixes for wall imperfections, and discuss ways to cut down your energy bills with utility company programs. Are you struggling to keep up with your home’s demands? We’ve got your back, so tune in to hear expert help and advice! - Home Improvement Advice: Separate fact from fix-tion by debunking these home improvement myths. - Drywall Repairs: Master the art of making drywall repairs the right way with these easy steps. - Energy Savings: Save money and energy with programs to help reduce your utility bills. Q & A: - HVAC Vents: Leroy notices that one of the air conditioning vents blows less air. He should check for a blockage or partially closed damper inside the duct. - Concrete Patio: Portions of Grace’s concrete patio are raised and discolored. We suggest replacing the mortar around loose bricks and refinishing the concrete surface. - Deck Pool: James has questions about cutting a hole in the deck to insert an inflated pool on a sloped yard. There are lots of reasons why it would not be a good idea. - Garage Floor: What is the best way to resurface two different areas of a garage floor? Margie can easily apply a durable epoxy floor coating to give it an attractive finish. - Toilet Plumbing: Kathy’s toilet makes a squealing noise when the washing machine runs! It sounds like a venting problem or a bad fill valve that’s causing a blockage. - Flooring Adhesive: Vito is installing upcycled plank flooring but it won’t stick. He should clean the subfloor well and use a grooved trowel to apply a flooring adhesive. - Bathroom Tile: What are good options besides tile for bathroom walls? Janet should look into bathtub surrounds that are smooth, seamless, and come in a variety of colors and styles. - Smoking Odor: Jeff can’t get rid of the smoke odor from the exposed brick walls. Brick is very absorbent, so he should use a clear oil-based primer to seal the surface. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we reveal some renter-friendly kitchen upgrades that won't jeopardize your security deposit. Then, we discuss HVAC filters, guiding you on the best choices for cleaner air. Plus, learn about easy, mortar-free backyard projects to elevate your outdoor space. Listen to all this and more home improvement advice on today’s show! - Kitchen Makeover: Revamp your rental kitchen without risking your security deposit. - HVAC Filters: Breathe easier by choosing the best HVAC filters for your home. - Backyard Projects: Craft custom backyard features with DIY building blocks. Q & A: - Cleaning Deck: Joseph’s composite decks have a white film and the color is fading. We suggest a good cleaning to remove algae and applying a solid color deck stain. - Bathroom Pipes: What size pipes are needed for a shower panel? It’s fine for Norma to keep the same size pipes, but multiple showerheads may reduce the water pressure. - Ants: Lorraine wants to get rid of ants in her garden and lawn. Precise new insecticides are very effective when they’re brought back to the nest and eliminate the ant colonies. - Wall Removal: Can Charlie remove a load-bearing wall between his kitchen and dining room? He’ll need a professional to build a temporary support wall and do the project properly. - Basement Walls: Poor drainage has caused the basement walls to bow in. Rob should hire a structural engineer to inspect the issue and specify how to make the repairs. - Cement Cracks: Cheryl’s cement porch is cracking along the edges. Repairing the cement is easy and affordable with the right products to patch and adhere to the concrete. - Light Switches: Pam gets advice on how to install and program an occupancy sensor light in a room with two light switches. - Well System Plumbing: How to eliminate air pockets in the plumbing? David should check for a problem with the pressure tank that’s getting air in the lines. - 1960s Home: What should Phyllis look for when buying a home built in the 1960s? It was a good era for home construction, but she should check the appliances and radiant heat for issues. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, we’re gearing up for power outages with a plan to keep you powered through summer storms. We’ll also reveal how to safeguard against ticks and explore paint colors that can transform your space and elevate your mood. Join us as we answer these and other home improvement questions for all your DIY dilemmas! - Paint Tips: Learn how to brighten your mood and your home with the right paint colors. - Tick Bites: Protect yourself outdoors with tactics to prevent tick bites. - Power Outages: Navigate your way safely through a power outage with these blackout basics. Q & A: - Structural Cracks: Cracks in the foundation and basement are getting bigger and the walls are bending. Dixie must immediately contact a structural engineer to make sure repairs are done correctly. - Asbestos: Jason’s basement ductwork has crumbling asbestos. He should have the material tested and have any asbestos removed by a professional. - Door Glass: Should a door with milky glass be repaired or replaced? It’s a cosmetic issue caused when the insulation seal fails, but it would be simpler for Pam to replace the door. - Deck Stain: Ray wants to seal his wraparound wood deck. We recommend using a solid color deck stain that will be more durable and last longer. - Water Heater: Eva is concerned about possible damage from an upstairs water heater. We suggest turning off the main water valve when she’s away so she won’t worry, and saving up for a tankless water heater. - Indoor Pool: How to reduce humidity from an indoor pool? Leslie should isolate the pool room from the rest of the house and use a dehumidifier and mold-resistant materials. - Drop Ceiling: Kathleen wants a faux tin ceiling in her sunroom. Drop ceilings offer great options as long as they’re attached properly. - Buckling Floor: Engineered hardwood floor installed on a concrete slab is starting to buckle. It needs to be replaced, but Todd should contact the floor manufacturer. - Roof Pitch: Charlene wants to replace the shingles on her low-pitch roof. She shouldn’t have asphalt shingles, but a metal roof would be a great investment. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Join us as we uncover tips for navigating the often-confusing process of window shopping. Then, we discuss a versatile portable battery system for both travel and home integration. Finally, learn about micro-irrigation, an efficient watering method that can save your garden. Plus, we’ve got more home improvement answers to inspire your DIY projects! - Buying Windows: Expert advice makes shopping for replacement windows a transparent process. - Battery Backup: Stay charged with a portable power backup system to use at home or on the go. - Micro-Irrigation: Transform your garden with micro-irrigation that’s rooted in efficiency. Q & A: - HVAC and Fans: Marie wonders if fans will improve her air conditioning. Ceiling and furnace fans won’t help very much, but we recommend installing a whole-house fan to pull air through the house. - Pest Control: Daddy longlegs are a problem in Will’s garage. Sticky traps, spraying white vinegar and vanilla extract, cleaning, and vacuuming will control the spiders. - Jacuzzi Mold: Robin has issues with moldy pipes and a fading finish on her Jacuzzi bathtub. It’s hard to refinish the fixtures, but a bleach solution will sanitize the pipes. - Fire Pit: Katherine has questions about fire pits. Options include buying a metal model that can last 5 to 8 years or a DIY kit to build a fire pit with bricks or pavers. - Insulation: What kind of insulation should Albert add to his attic? Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice that expands, seals, is more efficient, and needs no ventilation. - Ceramic Floor: Sandy can’t get her old ceramic tile floor clean. It sounds like the glaze has worn off, so we recommend installing laminate flooring or a second layer of tile. - Foundation Cracks: Cracks in the basement floor and seepage through the wall seams have Tom worried. He gets tips on sealing the cracks and improving drainage. - Oven Cleaning: Gail can’t clean the glass on her self-cleaning electric oven door. It’s a tough area to reach and she’ll need to disassemble the door. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

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