The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast-logo

The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

Radio America

Does your home ever feel like “a Money Pit?” It doesn’t have to be that way! We’re Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete, hosts of The Money Pit Podcast. For us, a money pit is not a disaster – it’s a home you love! Whether you’re dealing with a repair or dreaming about a reno, consider us your coach, helper or home improvement therapist for all things remodeling, decor or fix up! From bathrooms to basements, demolition to décor and gardening to garages, we share non-biased expertise to help you tackle your to-do’s with confidence. Taking care of a home can be a combination of love, pride and heart-stopping fear - but we promise to help you plan, save you money and spare you from snafus. Join us for new episodes every Monday and Thursday, just in time to plan your next home improvement adventure!

Location:

New York, NY

Networks:

Radio America

Description:

Does your home ever feel like “a Money Pit?” It doesn’t have to be that way! We’re Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete, hosts of The Money Pit Podcast. For us, a money pit is not a disaster – it’s a home you love! Whether you’re dealing with a repair or dreaming about a reno, consider us your coach, helper or home improvement therapist for all things remodeling, decor or fix up! From bathrooms to basements, demolition to décor and gardening to garages, we share non-biased expertise to help you tackle your to-do’s with confidence. Taking care of a home can be a combination of love, pride and heart-stopping fear - but we promise to help you plan, save you money and spare you from snafus. Join us for new episodes every Monday and Thursday, just in time to plan your next home improvement adventure!

Twitter:

@moneypit

Language:

English

Contact:

1-888-666-3974


Episodes

#2397 – Pour Judgement: Is Your Drinking Water Safe? | Planning a Fence | Smart Laundry Tips

3/18/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this show, homeowners get advice on how to ensure their drinking water is safe, how to plan the right kind of fence, and how to save money on laundry day! With tips on everything from repairs to renovations and everything in between, we’re here to answer all your home improvement questions! - Water Quality: Determining whether your drinking water is safe is a matter of pour judgement. - Planning a Fence: Good fences make good neighbors as long as you plan them properly. - Laundry Tips: Learn how to clean up on savings with efficient laundry tips. Q & A: - Gardening: Where should you locate a raised garden bed? Cynthia should plant her garden in full sun, on the side of the house with southern exposure. - Hardwood Floor Damage: There’s a swollen area where water leaked onto Heather’s hardwood floor. It would be hard to match the stain, but she can use some of the original flooring from a hidden area to replace the damaged piece. - Cedar Walls: Cedar walls in Brian’s home have darkened around his pictures. He can sand and stain the walls or simply hide the discoloration with similar wall hangings. - Flies: Ick! Karen has cluster flies coming from the heat registers in her floor. They’re common, but we suggest hiring a pest control professional who can use the right pesticides. - Roof Replacement: Mark gets tips about installing metal roofing on his low-slope roof. - HVAC Duct Cleaning: Is it worth having your HVAC ducts cleaned? We explain why it’s more important for Sherry to invest in good-quality filters and replace them regularly. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:09

#2396 – Decked Out: Build a Backyard Deck | Rainwater Collection Systems | Most Overlooked Appliance

3/14/2024
SHOW NOTES: How can you extend your outdoor space, upgrade yard hydration, and improve indoor air quality? Learn about building a backyard deck, installing a rainwater collection system, and making the most of your vent fans in today’s home improvement episode, plus more tips to create your best home ever! - Backyard Deck: Get your outdoor living space all decked out by building a backyard deck. - Rainwater Collection: Make every drop count with a rainwater collection system to hydrate your yard and garden. - Vent Fans: Find out why vent fans are your most overlooked appliances that control moisture and improve air quality. Q & A: - Floor Drain: Patricia’s garage floor drain is clogged but she can’t remove the grate. We suggest running a drain snake through the side yard access and using a vacuum to clear the grate. - Water Heater: Will an electric heat pump water heater affect the indoor climate? Karl is making the most efficient choice and shouldn’t worry about any negative impact. - Cleaning Grout: Nicole wants to get her bathroom grout white again. She’ll need to use a professional grout cleaner or grout stripper to get it as clean as possible. - Bathtub Remodel: Randy is removing his old tub and installing a handicap-accessible shower. We recommend a line of bathroom systems that can be easily customized. - Popcorn Ceiling: Should you repair or remove a popcorn ceiling that’s pulling away at the edges? Debbie has a few options to choose from. - Composite Decking: If you’re tired of replacing wood deck boards, is composite decking a good alternative? Carl learns why it’s a great, durable choice and easy to do. - Quartz Countertops: Iris gets information about changing her granite countertops to quartz, which costs about the same but is more durable, stain resistant, and easier to maintain. - Emergency Exit: A basement egress window will be too high above the floor. James learns about a line of products that can be installed to adapt to the exterior space. - Bathroom Vent: The bathroom exhaust fan isn’t removing the humidity well. Diane should make sure it clearly vents outside the building and install a humidistat. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:19

#2395 – The Room You Hate to Clean | Sow Smart: Best Soil for Your Lawn | Exterior Lighting Design

3/11/2024
SHOW NOTES: Today’s show is about cleaning quirks, lush lawns, and illuminating insights. Listen as we discuss the one room we all dread cleaning, dig deep into the secrets of soil, and shed light on exterior lighting. Tune in for expert advice and ideas for all your home improvement questions! - Bathroom Cleaning: It may be spring cleaning season, but this is the one room people most hate to clean. - Lawn Care: Grow a lush lawn by using superior soil. - Exterior Lighting: Add safety, security, and style with a great exterior lightscaping design. Q & A: - Deck Stain: Should Dawn use a sealant over her solid deck stain? There’s no need to seal the wood surface if she uses a good-quality deck stain. - Replacement Windows: Steve has gotten a wide range of price quotes for replacement windows. We offer tips on choosing the best windows and getting reliable estimates on Angi.com. - Sliding Doors: Moisture and ice are forming in the bottom rail of sliding doors. Sherry gets advice on how to check and adjust the door alignment to seal any gaps. - Patio Addition: Mike has lots of reasons to be concerned about a sunroom that was built over a concrete patio slab. He needs advice from a structural engineer or architect. - Cleaning Countertops: What’s the best way to clean a granite countertop? Janet learns that granite requires regular maintenance and gets suggestions on products to use. - Roof Leak: Josh wants to paint over a water stain in his bathroom ceiling. First, he should replace the rubber gasket and flashing around the roof vent pipe. - Lighting Cords: How can you hide the cords from LED lighting in the bathroom? Patrice has some options for lighting fixtures or can have an electrician run the wires behind the trim work. - Basement Flooring: Is engineered wood flooring alright to install in a basement? Jack can use engineered wood that’s rated for basements or consider laminate flooring. - HVAC Noise: Tammy’s new furnace makes a buzzing noise when it turns on. It could be a bad sign that the breaker box is deteriorating and should be checked by an electrician. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:20

#2394 – Seeds of Success: Early Spring Gardening | Garbage Disposal Tips | Safe Garage Storage

3/7/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this episode, get helpful tips about early spring gardening, efficient garbage disposals, and safe garage storage solutions. From plants to trash to avoiding toxins and clutter, we’ve got answers to these and other questions from homeowners like you! - Spring Gardening: Get ready to spring forward with tips for making your garden grow early in the season. - Garbage Disposals: Cut down on food waste with these garbage disposal options. - Safe Garage Storage: Keep toys and tools away from toxins with safe garage storage. Q & A: - Kitchen Range: Cindy has a small house with a big stove that burned the kitchen cabinet. She should contact the manufacturer for the proper installation specifications. - House Listing: When selling a house that’s been remodeled, how can you describe the upgrades? Mike gets advice on how to list his home and provide an inventory of improvements. - Electrical and Plumbing: Karen gets tips on how often to check the circuit breakers and how to check for plumbing leaks in her home. - Insulation: What is the best way to insulate a basement? We suggest that Jeff first check the exterior drainage to control moisture and give him three options for insulation. - Bathroom Window: Christina is remodeling and has questions about what to do with a window above her tub. She’s got options for installing a privacy window. - Heated Flooring: How should Kirk install heated flooring for a new house addition? Running it through the fireplace is inefficient, but we have tips on how to do it better. - Drafts: Anne needs to seal the drafts through her windows, floors, and cabinets. Weatherstripping, caulk, and insulation in the floor box beams will stop the drafts. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:08

#2393 – Soap Opera: Best and Worst Laundry Detergents | Great Kitchen Layouts | Home Repairs by Age

3/4/2024
SHOW NOTES: Learn about laundry, layouts, and longevity on today’s show, as we discuss the best and worst laundry detergents, kitchen layouts that maximize space and functionality, and how the age of your home influences needed repairs. Tune in for all this and more home improvement questions and answers! - Laundry Detergent: If clean laundry is an ongoing drama, you may need to use a better detergent. - Kitchen Design: When updating your kitchen, be sure the layout offers improved functionality. - Home Repairs by Age: Find out how the age of your home can determine when you’re likely to need certain repairs. Q & A: - Types of Roofing: Should Debbie choose a shingle or metal roof? Metal roofs will last a lifetime, but the ROI will depend upon how long she plans to live in the house. - Driveway Stains: Rubber marks are impossible to remove from an asphalt driveway. Ryan gets some DIY tips to reseal the driveway to cover them up. - Insulation: Old attic insulation is dried out and falling down. Claudia can replace it but should consider installing spray foam insulation in the rafters as a great alternative. - Woodpeckers: Persistent woodpeckers are drilling holes in Bruce’s cedar siding. Tin pie plates, strips of black plastic, and hot sauce are a few ways he may dissuade them. - Hot Water: It takes too long for hot water to get to the kitchen sink and upstairs bathroom, even with a recirculating pump near the water heater. Jim should consider installing a tankless water heater with smart technology. - Lighting: Laurie wants to change an old fluorescent light fixture in the closet to LED and gets details on how to determine the amount of lumens she needs. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:50

#2392 – Rest Easy: Buying the Right Mattress | Tips for Weed Warfare | DIY Drywall Repairs That Last

2/29/2024
SHOW NOTES: Sleep soundly after listening to tips on buying the right mattress at the best price, banishing weeds from your garden, and tackling drywall repairs like a pro. Whether you’re a DIY expert or a novice, you’ll want to hear answers to these and more of our callers’ home improvement questions on this episode! - Buying a Mattress: Rest easy with tips on how to buy the right mattress and when to get the best deals. - Weed Control: Spring is the season for weed warfare, so find out how to eliminate dandelions and other green invaders. - Drywall Repairs: Keep cracks, holes, and nail pops from returning with the right DIY drywall repairs. Q & A: - Enclosed Porch: Marla wants to enclose an old porch with lots of columns. We suggest having an architect create a design that won’t ruin the look of the house. - Water Heater: Louis wants the best gas water heater that will last a long time. We recommend a more efficient model with an electric ignition or a tankless water heater. - Crawlspace: Should you dig down in a crawlspace to create more room? Sara learns why it’s a bad idea that could undermine the foundation and how to create a Yankee basement. - Plumbing: What is needed to restart water that’s been turned off for a long time? Keith gets step-by-step instructions for turning on the water and checking for plumbing leaks. - Foundation: Brendan’s raised house was sagging and he had it leveled, but questions advice for adding sand. He should be more concerned with managing water around the perimeter to prevent movement. - Elevator: Want to install an elevator in your home? It’s becoming a popular option, and Rosalie will only need to block out a small space with access on each floor. - Home Warranty: Larry calls in with an update on problems he’s had with a new home that weren’t covered by a home warranty and thanks us for giving him good advice. - Flooring Repair: LuAnn needs to repair and replace a floor that was damaged by pets. Before installing a new floor, she must use an oil-based primer to seal the subfloor. - Door Repair: The finger joints are starting to decay on Fred’s glass pane door. We suggest some products he can use to repair the door instead of replacing it. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:25

#2391 – Power Up: When to Get an Electrical Upgrade | Heating Fuel Options | Sealing Attic Access

2/26/2024
SHOW NOTES: Get tips on aspects of home energy management, from signs it’s time for an electrical upgrade to the nuances between various home heating fuels to ways of sealing and insulating your attic access panels! Plus, we’ve got home improvement advice for callers on a wide range of topics that you’ll want to know! - Electrical Upgrade: Get ready to power up and know when it’s time to get an electrical upgrade. - Heating Options: Learn the differences between oil, gas, propane, and electric heating options. - Attic Access: Prevent energy loss by sealing and insulating your attic access panel. Q & A: - Shaking Washing Machine: Laura’s washing machine is shimmying on her laminate floor. She should make sure the appliance is level and balanced and use anti-vibration pads under the appliance. - Cleaning Stainless Steel: Tom is frustrated by stains on the stainless steel appliances. They look great but need to be polished regularly with a recommended product. -Pipe Insulation: MaryAnn’s uninsulated laundry room is too cold! We suggest insulating the pipes to avoid freezing and adding a baseboard heater to warm the room. - Heated Floor: David is renovating a brownstone home and gets advice on how to add radiant heating under the floor. - Radon: Is radon a potential hazard in a home built on a slab foundation? The risk is lower, but it would be easy for Kathy to get a DIY radon test kit. - Sewer Odors: There’s an awful sewer odor coming from the shower drain. Gene should use bleach or an oxygenated bleach cleaner to get rid of any bio-gas bacteria. - Insulation Options: What’s the difference between open- and closed-cell spray foam insulation? John learns how to choose which type of insulation to use in his old home. - Floor Tile Cracks: June loves heated flooring and gets information on using a membrane product with a heating system to prevent the ceramic tile floor from cracking. - Structural Support: Alvin’s ranch home is showing signs of serious structural damage. He needs a structural engineer to design the proper repairs to jack up the house. - Smart Thermostat: The thermostat is located in the area of the house that Michelle wants to close off, but she can get a smart thermostat with wireless sensors for each room. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:49

#2390 – Space-Saving Small Bathroom Makeovers | Choosing HVAC Filters | Stand-Out Driveway Markers

2/22/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this home improvement episode, we’ll tackle small bathroom makeovers to save space and add style, give tips on selecting the best HVAC filters for optimal air quality, and discuss how driveway markers can enhance safety and curb appeal. Tune in for expert insights and answers to more homeowner questions! - Bathroom Makeover: Make every inch count with a space-saving small bathroom makeover. - HVAC Filters: Breathe easy by choosing the right HVAC filter to clear the air of springtime allergens. - Driveway Markers: Make your house stand out with a driveway marker that adds safety and curb appeal. Q & A: - Windows: Condensation and foggy windows are signs that the thermal seal is failing on old windows. Ruth would be better off replacing the windows instead of repairing them. - Sliding Doors: Cold drafts are blowing through Anthony’s old sliding glass doors. Newer sliding doors would be better insulated and curtains can block the cold glass. - Countertops: Diane wants to refinish her original Formica laminate countertops We recommend a DIY product that can create the look of a stone surface in a weekend. - Fireplace Moisture: David gets advice on installing flashing so that water from the roof will be diverted around the chimney. - Bath Mat Adhesive: Kimberly can’t remove a mat that’s stuck to the bottom of the tub. WD-40 or a citrus-based adhesive remover may help, but the tub surface could get damaged in the process. - Concrete Repair: Charlie’s painted concrete patio is flaking and pitted. He needs to pressure wash and scrape it first, then repair the concrete before using an epoxy paint. - Refinishing Old Walls: Susan uncovered wood under the sheetrock of her old home. We’ve got tips on how to sand, stain, and seal the wood with a flat varnish. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:44

#2389 – Playing with Fire: Fireplace Hazards | Safe Cleaning Products | Uninsured Contractor Risks

2/19/2024
SHOW NOTES: This home improvement episode is all about safety, including common fire hazards associated with fireplaces and stoves, options for safe cleaning products, and the risks of hiring uninsured contractors. Listen to hear more about these and other callers’ questions to keep your home safe, sound, and comfortable! - Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety: Learn how fireplaces and wood-burning stoves can be dangerous causes of house fires. - Safe Cleaning Products: Get tips for choosing cleaning products with safer ingredients. - Uninsured Contractors: Find out how hiring uninsured or unlicensed contractors poses risks that are your responsibility. Q & A: - Laminate Flooring: The seams in Judy’s Pergo laminate floor are bubbling up, either from moisture or after being installed incorrectly, and the floor will need to be redone. - Gutter Guards: John’s gutter is overflowing, even with gutter guards installed. The water may be running too fast down a steep roof and washing over the guards, but he should check to see if they need to be replaced. - Painting Tile: Can outdated bathroom tile be painted over? Chris gets tips on how to do it, but it may not last long and she may want to decorate around the tile colors for now. - Wet Basement: There is condensation in the outlets and an odor coming from Ed’s basement. We offer info on improving exterior drainage, installing a dehumidifier, and removing carpeting and paneling that are harboring moisture-related bacteria. - Dishwasher Clog: The bottom of the dishwasher fills with water after it runs. Mary needs a plumber to locate the obstruction in the plumbing line. - Blocked Toilet: When Beth flushes the toilet, the water rises to the rim and then goes down slowly. A plumber can clear the partial clog that’s somewhere beyond the drain. - Cracked Concrete: A crack in Mike’s concrete slab floor is not structural, so it can easily be repaired with a cement patching compound. - HVAC Condensation: Gail’s contractor has moisture from her HVAC system dripping directly into the crawlspace. She needs to install a condensate pump to direct the water outside the house. - Structural Insulation: Brad is boxing out the eaves behind the knee wall in an upstairs bedroom and finds out where to install additional insulation. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:38

#2388 – Crystal Clear: Window Cleaning Tips | High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers | Basement Bedrooms

2/15/2024
SHOW NOTES: Join us as we reveal the pro secrets to crystal-clear windows, the benefits of high-efficiency washers and dryers, and the potential of basement bedrooms! If you’re seeking the answers to these or other home improvement challenges from today’s callers, we’re here to help! - Cleaning Windows: Get crystal clear results with tips on the best way to clean windows. - Washers and Dryers: Find out whether high-efficiency washers and dryers are worth the additional cost. - Basement Bedrooms: Adding a basement bedroom can be a good idea, as long as it complies with building safety codes. Q & A: - HVAC Filters: What kind of filter should Sandra use for her furnace? You get what you pay for, and high-quality filters provide better filtration to trap more allergens. - Cracked Concrete: Roy has a crack in the driveway slab near his garage. Mud jacking will work to replace that area by filling in the low spots and tamping down a solid base. - Countertop Repair: Is there a way to repair scratches in a Corian countertop? Gayla gets info about products to clean and restore the countertop finish, or having the surface lightly sanded and polished. - Water Heater: James noticed moisture inside his water heater, but no leak. It’s probably normal condensation, but we share tips on installing a timer and how to adjust the water temperature. - Fireplace: Keith wants to update the look of his red brick fireplace and hearth. We offer some ideas such as applying a stone veneer, tiles, or paint in complementary colors. - Smoke Odors: A burning pot on the stove created smoke throughout Margie’s home and she can’t get rid of the awful smoke smell. She may need a company that specializes in fire and smoke cleanup. - Gutters: Can the rotted fascia board be removed without having to take apart everything? Derwin can’t avoid it, but it’s a good opportunity to replace the wood with another product. - Wallpaper Removal: Jan found a paper lining behind her wallpaper and is concerned about damaging the sheetrock. If the paper is adhered well, she can add texture over it. - Toilet Stain: Sparky can’t figure out why only one toilet keeps getting a black ring. He can try CLR to clean it, but there may be something different about that toilet’s porcelain finish. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:04

#2387 – Baby on Board: Babyproofing Your Home | Removing Red Wine Stains | Heated Driveways

2/12/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this episode, learn about three kinds of safety tips: keeping kids safe by babyproofing your home, keeping fabrics and surfaces safe from red wine stains, and keeping your back safe by installing a heated driveway to eliminate snow shoveling! Plus, hear answers to a wide range of additional homeowner questions from Money Pit callers! - Child Safety: Baby on the way? Keep kids safe with important tips for babyproofing your home. - Stain Removal: After a merlot mishap or a cabernet crisis, here’s how to remove red wine stains. - Heated Driveways: If you’ve had enough of shoveling snow, you may want to invest in a heated driveway. Q & A: - Floor Beams: Wendy’s renovating her old house and gets advice on how to add support to the beams and plywood under her kitchen floor. - Driveway Mold: Mold keeps growing in the shady area of the driveway. We suggest a mildewcide product with a residual effect that David can easily apply. - Crawlspace Moisture: Irena’s house is on a slope, with rainwater coming into the crawlspace. We explain how to install a French drain to intercept the runoff and redirect the water around the house. - Heating and Cooling: The upstairs rooms are too hot and the downstairs rooms are too cold! Jessie should check the airflow at all the registers and return ducts, adjust the dampers, and consider adding a supplemental system. - Cleaning Tile: Old bathroom tile has lost its shine. Sherry’s tiles may actually have a matte finish without a glaze, but we have tips for cleaning the tiles to improve their appearance. - Light Dimmers: Why do the lights flicker when they’re dimmed? Tim should make sure the LED bulbs are listed as dimmable and look into a certain line of dimmer switches. - Electrical Spark: Ming’s automatic closet door light sometimes sparks. That’s an immediate fire hazard that needs to be replaced immediately! - Service Contracts: Who’s responsible for water lines that run from the street to your home? Manny shouldn’t be fooled by the scare tactics he gets in the mail for unnecessary service contracts. - Vandalism: A former tenant poured cement down the drains of Bonnie’s rental property! The repairs would be covered by insurance, but that’s vandalism that also warrants criminal charges. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:36:59

#2386 – Dirty Secrets: How Often to Wash Towels | Toughest Hardwood Floors | Severe Weather Threats

2/8/2024
SHOW NOTES: Join us as we discuss some helpful homeowner essentials, like how often you should be washing your germy towels, selecting the toughest hardwood flooring, and keeping severe weather worries at bay! Get answers to these and more home improvement questions in our latest podcast episode. - Washing Towels: Find out some dirty secrets about bath towels and how often they should be washed. - Hardwood Floors: Ratings reveal the toughest types of hardwood flooring. - Severe Weather: Homeowners share their leading concerns about severe weather damage. Q & A: - New Construction: Are there lemon laws for new homes? Tina gets advice on reporting home warranty issues and hiring a home inspector to examine the problems. - Garage Floor Repair: Mike’s got cracks in his slab garage floor. We’ve got tips for using a crack filler and sealer, then recoating the floor to give it a beautiful finish. - Roof Leak: Rain is blowing through the roof dryer vents into Pat’s house. We discuss changing the type of roof vent and how to check the flashing around the vent. - Smart Switches: Phillip is having a hard time finding smart switches to fit the wiring in his home. We suggest a product line that offers sophisticated smart home controls and good tech support. - Wood Siding: What’s the best way to fill gaps in wood siding? Jennifer gets info about using steel wool, caulk, or spray foam insulation before priming and painting the area. - Insulation: When does an old house need more insulation? Barb can add unfaced fiberglass batting on top of and perpendicular to existing insulation that’s flat and sagging. - Home Additions: Matthew wants to increase the square footage of his ranch home. Adding a second floor would probably offer a better ROI than a basement. - Deck Stain: Can Paula stain and seal her deck with one product? Exterior deck stains do both and we recommend choosing a good quality solid stain that will last longer. - Dishwasher Repair: Jackie’s dishwasher stopped drying the dishes and mold is starting to build up. The heating element must have failed, but it may be better to replace the dishwasher than to repair it. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:20

#2385 – Renter’s Regret: Beware a Costly Loophole | Finding Replacement Tiles | How to Spot Termites

2/5/2024
SHOW NOTES: Learn how to insure, restore, and spot more in this episode about avoiding costly renter’s insurance pitfalls, repairing and replacing tiles, and finding termites in your home. All this and much more home improvement help in today’s episode! - Renter’s Insurance: Beware this costly loophole in your renter’s insurance and stay protected. - Replacing Tiles: Get tips for repairing or replacing hard-to-find tiles. - Termites: Learn how to spot termites in any season before they make themselves at home. Q & A: - Bathroom Ventilation: Lisa’s not sure if her bathroom exhaust fan is working. We suggest asking her HVAC contractor about proper air exchange and installing a humidistat timer. - Foundation: Steve wonders if a solid concrete foundation is better than cinderblock walls, but moisture issues are simple to address with proper drainage outside the home. - HVAC Condensation: Should there be condensation on a high-efficiency HVAC system? Jean should have the HVAC serviced annually and check how it’s supposed to pump out moisture. - Chimney Removal: How hard would it be to remove two abandoned chimneys in John’s old home? It’s a messy project that’s not for the faint of heart, but it can be done. - Mold: Robin is worried about moisture causing mold in her bathroom exhaust vent. It may actually be dirt she’s seeing, but we have tips on running the vent fan longer. - Water Heater: Tony says the cold water line leading into his water heater feels hot, but we think it’s just conductive heat from inside the heater that’s warming the pipe. - Running Toilet: The toilet keeps running several times a day. Patty learns it’s an easy and inexpensive fix to replace the fill and flush valves inside the toilet tank. - Bathroom Grout: Rust from the screws is seeping through the bathroom tile grout. Bill should remove it and replace it with epoxy grout. - Central Air Conditioning: Can a new central air conditioning system be attached to existing ductwork? It depends on the design and size of the home and how far the air needs to travel without wasting energy. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:21

#2384 – No Shortcuts: Do You Get the Lumber You Pay For? | Cleaning Grout | De-Icing Garage Doors

2/1/2024
SHOW NOTES: Delve into the intricacies of home improvement as we discuss getting the right bang for your buck in lumber purchases, using the best grout cleaning routine, and breaking the ice on frozen garage doors. From measuring mastery to thawing tactics, we've got answers to these and other homeowner questions! - Measuring Lumber: Does the price you pay for lumber really measure up to what you get? - Cleaning Grout: Read between the lines on how to choose the right cleaner for your dirty grout. - De-Icing Garage Doors: Learn how to de-ice a garage door that’s become a frozen fortress. Q & A: - Dehumidifier: Kayla’s dehumidifier keeps tripping the 100-amp circuit. The problem is with the breaker, not the dehumidifier, but she can easily add a bigger dedicated circuit. - House Settling: Cracks, stuck doors, and popping screws all happening at once may indicate house movement. AJ needs a home inspector or structural engineer to determine whether it’s an active problem. - Rusty Garage Doors: Carolyn gets tips on how to sand, prime, and paint her rusty metal garage doors. - Gutters: Leslie learns a new word for gutters from Eric, who finds out gutters should always be installed, even on a house with a concrete slab. - Sink Refinishing: Debra wants to get rid of the black ring around her drain without having to replace the beautiful sink. We have tips for using cleaners or steel wool. - Insulation: What kind of insulation should be used for the exterior walls of an old home? Blown-in insulation by an experienced installer would be Twan’s best choice. - Bathroom Flooring: Linoleum floor tiles are curling up in Darlene’s bathroom. Adhesive is a temporary fix, but we suggest installing a floating laminate floor over it. - Wheelchair Ramp: Sue needs to prevent ice on a wheelchair ramp without damaging the wood. Calcium chloride, mixed with sand, is effective and less corrosive. - Painting Redwood Siding: David is off to a good start by priming his redwood siding and should use a good quality paint over it as soon as possible. - Roofing: Catherine’s old barn needs a new roof. If the barnboard is continuous and solid, she can install the underlayment and shingles right over it. - Salt in Septic System: Giovanni was told the salt from his water softener is deteriorating his concrete septic tank, but we don’t think that’s very likely. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:46

#2383 – Naked Truth of Stripping Wallpaper | Fireplace Efficiency | Weasel Your Way to Clear Drains

1/29/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this show, we tackle a trifecta of home improvement challenges! Discover how to make your fireplace a heat-saving hero, peel away layers of old wallpaper, and unclog drains like a pro. Plus, get answers to additional home improvement questions! - Removing Wallpaper: Removing wallpaper is quicker and easier with these tips. - Fireplace Efficiency: Keep warm without burning money through your fireplace. - Unclogging Drains: Weasel your way to clear drains with this handy tool. Q & A: - Bathroom Flooring: Besides tile, what kind of flooring is best for bathrooms? Zelda should consider bamboo flooring that’s durable and works well in moist areas. - Water Heater: Jacob’s water is either too hot or too cold. Installing a pressure balance valve will keep the water temperature regulated. - Kitchen Remodeling: Joan gets advice on how to plan a kitchen remodeling project and working with a kitchen designer. - Dehumidifying: Randy wants to reduce the humidity in the crawlspace. He should put down a vapor barrier, check outside drainage, and install an exhaust fan. - Mold Removal: We offer Debra tips on how to clean mold in her bedroom, but first she needs to fix the leak that’s causing it. - Garage Door: A steel garage door is binding, making noise, and unbalanced. It sounds like the roller bearings are worn on one side of Pete’s garage door. - Insulation Noise: Diane’s hearing odd sounds in the house after having blown-in insulation installed. It’s not the insulation, but she’ll need to do some detective work to find the cause. - Ice Dams: To prevent ice dams, Jeff must have a sufficient ventilation area above the roof soffits and should install an ice and water shield. - Crumbling Chimney: An old brick chimney is falling apart and unsafe to use. Kathy gets advice on disassembling the chimney rather than installing a chimney liner. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:37

#2382 – Paws-itively Perfect Pet-Friendly Floors | Window Trend Adds Light | Stinky Sink Odors

1/25/2024
SHOW NOTES: Learn the secrets to a fresh and inviting home in this episode, as we address the challenge of sink odors, discuss windows to brighten your rooms, and suggest pet-friendly floors that look great. Tune in for these and lots more home improvement inspirations! - Pet-Friendly Floors: Make furry friends feel at home with paws-itively perfect pet-friendly floors. - Transom Windows: These trending transom windows add light where you need it. - Sink Odors: Try these simple solutions for stinky sinks. Q & A: - Chimney Removal: Steve’s considering removing his brick chimney. It’s a big job, but he gets advice on the steps involved. - Ceiling Repair: Rock lath is discovered under a damaged ceiling. We give Maria tips on how to plaster over it before priming and painting the entire ceiling. - Garage Insulation: Mike wants to warm up his cold garage, but there may not be enough room to add insulation above the ceiling. - Dry Rot: Joan finds what she thinks is dry rot when she pulls up a rug. We explain it may be wet rot that has dried out and decayed, or possibly carpenter ants. - Hard Water: How should hard well water be treated? Greg should first have the water tested for contaminants and then try adding a recommended system to treat hard water. - Countertop Noise: Sudden loud noises from the countertop are making Nadine jump! They may be caused by the expansion and contraction of walls or plumbing. - Replacing Insulation: When should insulation be replaced? If Stewart’s old insulation is flat or saggy instead of fluffy, it’s time to remove and replace it or add more. - Windows: Are triple-pane windows better than double-pane? Double-pane windows should be fine, and Jane Ellen gets tips on ENERGY STAR ratings to look for. - GFCI Outlet: Peter thinks his GFCI outlet has gone bad, but it may actually be tripping because of a short in the circuit that an electrician should investigate. - Garage Doors: The garage door is shimmying and not closing properly. Sounds like the door rollers are failing and we suggest that Nancy replace the door and door opener. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:04

#2381 – Budget Blueprint for Home Maintenance | Affordable Stone Countertops | Best Home Project ROI

1/22/2024
SHOW NOTES: Enjoy some home budget bliss as we discuss how to control maintenance and repair costs, get the look of expensive stone countertops at an affordable price, and do a home remodeling project with the best ROI! Save time, money, and stress as we answer these and other home improvement questions you’ll want to know. - Home Maintenance Costs: Avoid unpleasant surprises by setting a budget for home maintenance and repairs. - Stone Countertops: Get the luxe look of stone countertops at a fraction of the cost. - Remodeling ROI: Find out which home improvement project delivers the highest ROI. Q & A: - Door Replacement: Old French doors have developed wood rot at the bottom and repairing them is a challenge. Fran should look at getting a new fiberglass door. - Removing a Wall: Martin wants to remove a main support wall between rooms. It can be done, but this is a big project that needs a professional to avoid disaster. - Garage Floor: Someone made Kathleen doubtful about installing an epoxy garage floor. We assure her that epoxy flooring is designed to be durable and weather-resistant. - HVAC Vent Ducts: What’s the best way to hide HVAC vents that run across a finished basement ceiling? Jim should look into beautiful new drop ceiling designs that will provide easy access when needed. - Basement Odor: Persistent damp odors are coming from Ann’s basement floor drains. She must figure out where the pipes are going and consider installing a lift pump. - Subflooring: Chris replaced a rotted bathroom subfloor and gets some tips on screwing cement board on top of it, then applying adhesive to install the floor tiles. - Wallpaper Removal: Should Lisa paint or remove old wallpaper and borders? We recommend using a paper tiger tool and a steam wallpaper remover to soften the glue. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:57

#2380 – DIY Drama: Most Stressful Home Projects | Spring Roof Checkup | Appliance Repair Cheat Sheet

1/18/2024
SHOW NOTES: Join us as we explore the importance of roof inspection, reveal the most stressful home improvement projects, and decide whether to repair or replace that aging appliance. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips for these and other home improvement questions! - Home Improvement Projects: A new survey reveals the most and least stressful home improvement projects. - Roof Inspection: After withstanding winter weather, it’s time to give your roof a checkup. - Appliance Repair: Get a cheat to help decide whether to repair or replace appliances. Q & A: - Surge Protectors: Can Rick save money by connecting appliances and electronics to surge protectors? Not much, and they’re really meant to guard against power surges. - Toilet Condensation: Ilene has condensation on the outside of her toilets. A plumber can run a line to mix in warmer water and she should reduce the humidity in her home. - Spray Foam Insulation: Should Kevin use open- or closed-cell spray foam insulation? They’re both very effective and it depends on the moisture level of the area. - Radon System: Jane has a radon mitigation system but the radon levels upstairs are still high. She should have the system checked to make sure it’s venting properly. - Basement Walls: Ross wants to paint over stains on his concrete block walls. We have tips on cleaning them with a vinegar solution before priming and using masonry paint. - Replacing a Mailbox: Lynn’s mailbox rusted and broke inside a brick enclosure. She gets advice on how to detach and remove it and how to find the right replacement. - Roof Installation: What is the best kind of roof for a cold climate? Phillip learns about installing an ice and water shield, roof shingle options, and warranty information. - Door Adjustment: What is the best way to cut the bottom of a door? Carol gets step-by-step advice on using tape and a circular saw to avoid chipping and splitting the wood. - Bathroom Subfloor: Large bathroom floor tiles are starting to crack. George needs to tear them out and install a solid new subfloor that’s perfectly level before tiling again. - Energy Savings: Devron can’t figure out why the energy bills are so high. We suggest contacting the utility company to do an energy audit and to see if the attic needs more insulation. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:34:44

#2379 – DIY Sunshine: Beating the Winter Blues | 6 Painting Pointers to Ponder | Home Energy Audit

1/15/2024
SHOW NOTES: Get tips on keeping your home colorful, bright, and warm in today's show as we discuss what to think about before painting, easy pick-me-ups to beat the winter blues, and doing a home energy assessment. Plus, hear helpful answers to lots more home improvement questions! - Winter Blues: Lift your spirits and beat the winter blues with DIY tips to brighten up your home. - Painting Tips: Consider these 6 tips before starting your next painting project. - Energy Audit: Learn how to make your home more energy-efficient with a DIY energy audit. Q & A: - Deck Stain: Jeanie needs advice for staining the new boards on her deck. We recommend using a solvent-based solid stain that will last longer. - Water Pressure: The water pressure is different in Brad’s bathrooms. He gets tips on how to figure out if it’s an obstruction or a problem with the valve or faucet. - Gutter Guards: Risa’s gutters are getting clogged with leaves from nearby trees. We advise her to find a reputable contractor to install mesh gutters that will work best. - Home Construction: Is prefabricated construction a good option? We agree there are lots of advantages to John building a prefab guest home. - Storm Door: Katie’s storm door is trapping so much heat, it’s melting her front door trim. She may not need the storm door at all, or else she can just use the screen panels. - Insulation: Brian is converting his ceiling can lights to LED, but he should check with the manufacturer about how to insulate around the lights in the attic. - Bathroom Wall Cracks: There are spider cracks in the acrylic wall around Stephanie’s shower. If they’re just on the surface, she can try buffing them with car wax. - Basement Flooring: Jay wants to warm up his cold concrete basement floor and gets info about subfloor panels he can place over the concrete before adding new flooring. - Preventing Mice: What is the best way to keep mice out of a seasonal home? Sarah gets tips for storing food, sealing gaps, eliminating nesting areas, and using rodenticide. - Cedar Siding: Is pine a good replacement for worn western red cedar siding? It’s not as durable, so he should stick with cedar siding or consider using HardiePlank instead. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:38:16

#2378 – Rent Rules: 5 Ways to Get Your Security Deposit | Heat Pump Technology | DIY Furniture Fixes

1/11/2024
SHOW NOTES: In this enlightening episode, we’ll discuss efficient new heat pump technology, learn savvy tips to reclaim your rental security deposit, and discover quick hacks for easy furniture repairs. For answers to these and lots more home improvement questions, your home transformation starts here! - Rental Security Deposit: When your rental lease ends, don’t forget these tips for reclaiming your security deposit. - Heat Pumps: New efficiencies in heat pump technology keep costs down and comfort up. - Furniture Repair: Clean stains and fix dings and dents with these easy furniture repair hacks. Q & A: - Roof Moss and Mold: Mary wants to clean and prevent moss and mold on her asphalt shingle roof. Sunlight is the best solution and we recommend cutting back some trees. - Insulation: Does spray foam insulation pose a mold risk? It’s unlikely that a leak in Luke’s roof would go undetected long enough to cause any concern. - Replacing Windows: Marcia’s old wood kitchen window is hard to open and close. Replacing the window is easier and more efficient than the work involved in repairing it. - Shower Plumbing: Chad’s showers vary from freezing cold to scalding hot. A pressure balance valve will keep the water temperature consistent even when the pressure isn’t. - Garage Doors: Laurie has no remote control for the garage door opener. She can check on the manufacturer’s website for the model number of her unit to learn how to program the keypad and order the right remote control. - Laminate Floor: Does the color of a laminate floor go all the way through and will it hold up to Leroy’s chairs? Good-quality laminate flooring has multiple layers but should be fine for the furniture. - Shower Conversion: Cheryl wants to convert a small tub into a shower and gets tips on finding the right size shower pan to fit the space. - Water Heater: What is the best temperature setting for a gas water heater? Dean should be careful to keep the water no more than 110-120 degrees to avoid burns. - Ceiling Crack: After a wall was removed, it left a crack in the ceiling. Linda should cut out a bigger area of the drywall, then tape and spackle it well before priming the painting the whole ceiling. - Installing a Fence: Vincent is putting up a chain-link fence where there is lots of water. We have advice on digging deep and filling the post holes with cement. - Water Drainage: Shawnee has a problem with drainage and moisture in her yard from an underground spring, but it’s just a small area that doesn’t seem worth doing major work. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:36