The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

SHOW NOTES: Coming up this hour, we’ll have some terrific, timely discussions to help you with more indoor and outdoor projects as the season heats up! Join us as we delve into: - How to avoid costly mistakes when building the deck of your dreams. - An affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to costly asphalt roof replacement that can extend the life of your shingles with Roof Maxx. - Tips to help you keep the power on during summer storms and outages, including backup power sources and surge protection. - Quick and affordable ways to refresh your home's decor for the summer season, using breezy fabrics and fresh colors. Q & A: And we're taking your calls, hearing from listeners just like you about their home dilemmas! On the line, we've heard from: - Linda from Washington is asking about painting over dark Formica kitchen countertops. - Michael from Rhode Island is dealing with uneven heating and cooling in his split-level home. - Mary in Wisconsin wonders about the best flooring options for her basement concrete after removing old carpet. - Paul from Illinois faces roofing issues with old box gutters that are backing up and are difficult to clean due to the roof's height. - Katherine from Delaware inquires about building a homemade stone fire pit versus buying a metal one. - Victoria from Arkansas is having issues with small areas of shower grout falling out. - Greg from Louisiana needs advice on fixing a broken shut-off valve handle for his toilet. - Lisa sends an email seeking non-pesticide solutions for moles showing up in her vegetable garden. - Ken emails us to ask about the difference between replacement windows and other kinds of new windows. 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: Coming up this hour, we've got some incredible discussions to help you tackle those summer projects! We’re also taking your calls, hearing from listeners just like you about their home improvement dilemmas! Stayed tuned to learn about: - Pool Safety: If you've got a pool, you know safety is paramount, and we'll be breaking down the unique requirements for pool fencing to keep everyone safe this summer. - Roof Rejuvenation: We're joined by Mike Feazel from Roof Maxx to talk about an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to costly roof replacements that can extend the life of your shingles. - Drywall Repairs: Those pesky wall cracks, nail pops, and splitting seams? We've got tips to make sure your drywall fixes are "one and done." - Pet-Friendly Decorating: Leslie's Last Word will help you design a beautiful, pet-friendly home that stands up to your well-meaning furry friends. Q & A: - Martha from Ohio is dealing with a leaky window due to improper installation and a saturated flower bed. - Terry from Kansas seeks advice on the proper time and method to paint a stucco exterior after a previous peeling issue. - Katherine from Arizona is struggling with failed sod and exposed mesh netting on her lawn in a cold mountain climate. - Kim from Tennessee is looking for solutions to get rid of moles causing damage in her yard. - Albert from Massachusetts inquires about upgrading the minimal insulation in his 50-year-old home's attic. - Tim from New York wonders if he needs to put anything on the wall before installing a glass tile backsplash in his kitchen. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: This episode is packed with fantastic ideas and solutions to tackle those nagging projects! We're talking about everything from making your outdoor space your favorite place with porches, patios, landscaping, hardscaping, fences, and fire pits. We'll also cover crucial indoor home improvement topics, because inside or outside, we're on your side! Here’s a sneak peek at what we've been chatting about and who's been calling in: - Natural Stone Countertops: We're exploring the pros and cons of caring for those gorgeous natural stone countertops in your kitchen and bathroom spaces. While they're beautiful and durable, they're not entirely maintenance-free, folks! - The Top Five Filters in Your Home: As summer heats up and we close our windows to keep the air conditioning in, it's super important to maintain healthy indoor air. We're sharing the top five most crucial filters in your home that you need to be checking and cleaning. You might be surprised you have so many! - Summer Design Trends of 2025: Summer is the perfect time for home design projects, from small updates to major overhauls. We'll dive into the top eight summer design trends for 2025, including "color drenching," metallic accents, beverage stations, fun zones, "wood drenching," French country decor, and water conservation in landscaping. OUR CALLERS: - Carol in Texas wanted to know if she could pressure wash and re-stain weathered treated lumber on her porches with a transparent stain, much like her new porch. - Brian in Massachusetts called in about painting his honey oak kitchen cabinets white and asked about the necessary preparation, especially for filling in the deep grain. - Bonnie faced a dilemma with sealing concrete after flood damage, seeking a less toxic alternative to a strong-smelling basement sealer. - Byron successfully removed his popcorn ceiling and wanted to know the proper next steps for prepping and painting the now-flat surface. - Steve in Arizona inquired about the necessity and benefits of having his air ducts cleaned. - Jonas in Washington was looking to add a fascia-mounted railing to his balcony for more space, but was concerned about a gutter that was currently in the way. - Alex in Florida reached out because his four-year-old central air conditioning system works well, except for one front room that's consistently about five degrees hotter than the rest of the house. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hey Money Pit fans! Get ready for another exciting episode focused on making your home safer, quieter, and more functional, especially with summer approaching. And we hope all the dads out there had a very happy Father's Day! Coming up: - Find out the most effective ways to curb the mosquito population around your house, mainly by eliminating all sources of standing water, where mosquitoes lay their eggs. - We'll welcome Dave Kyle, CEO of Trex RainEscape, to explain how their under-deck drainage system creates a dry, usable space beneath an elevated deck, protecting the structure from moisture and allowing for the addition of electrical and gas lines for various outdoor amenities. - Learn crucial ladder safety tips such as keeping the ladder stationary, leveling its feet on various surfaces, proper positioning at a 75-degree angle, looking for overhead wires, and avoiding resting it against rounded objects like trees. Q & A: - Darlene from Baltimore is dealing with noise issues between the upstairs and downstairs apartments. The best soundproofing solution involves opening up the wall to install mineral wool insulation and potentially sound-deadening drywall. - Tim from Michigan has a vinyl linoleum floor with wrinkles and an uneven subfloor. We advise using a floor leveling compound and consider replacing the floor with a waterproof engineered vinyl plank or luxury vinyl plank product. - Britney from Michigan must repair a crumbling cobblestone foundation in her old farmhouse. This load-bearing wall issue requires a specialized technique called needle beaming to temporarily support the house while the foundation is disassembled and rebuilt, ideally overseen by a structural engineer or architect. - Maya from Iowa needs help removing outdoor carpet glued to concrete steps. It’s a tough job best tackled with a chemical adhesive remover to soften the glue, followed by options like thin pavers or outdoor-rated ceramic tile for resurfacing. - Marcy in Nebraska has a 15,000 BTU window AC unit that keeps tripping her breaker in the heat of the afternoon. An overloaded or low-amperage circuit can be identified using a "fox and hound" circuit tracker and may ultimately require an electrical system check-up or upgrade by a professional electrician. - Marcus in New Jersey is installing a new exterior door and wonders if he still needs a storm door. They’re generally not necessary for energy efficiency with modern doors, but can be added for airflow, keeping in mind that direct sun can cause heat buildup and potentially melt trim. We're here every week, and you can call us 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) if your home needs a fix! Or you can always post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hey Money Pit fans! We’re kicking things off with a special Happy Father's Day shout-out to all the dads and dad figures out there! Then, listen in as we dive into the essentials of designing an amazing outdoor kitchen for your backyard gatherings and discuss how metal roofs can significantly reduce your cooling costs. Plus, learn how to safely clean up and repair broken windows, and get helpful answers to lots more home improvement questions to make your home better, inside and out! Learn comprehensive tips on designing outdoor kitchens, emphasizing the need for ground fault protected (GFCI) electrical outlets, plumbing that can be drained, and outdoor-rated appliances, ideally located on an existing patio. Discover how metal roofing can significantly boost your home's energy efficiency by reducing cooling costs, thanks to its low thermal mass, heat-reflective coatings, and integral air space. With summer storm season upon us, get crucial tips on cleaning up broken window glass safely using wet paper towels for tiny pieces and preventing future damage by securing potential projectiles around your home. Q & A: Sally is battling foggy double-pane windows. A failed thermopane seal is allowing the insulative gas to escape, impacting energy efficiency and requiring replacement. Jason is dealing with noisy plumbing when filling his master bathroom tub and spitting cold water from other sinks. A bad washer in the faucet or high water pressure can be fixed by replacing or cleaning the washer. Thomas from Louisiana has a portable AC unit that keeps tripping breakers and causing the extension cord to heat up from an under-rated 100-foot extension cord. He needs an electrician to properly label circuits and verify wire sizes. Leslie provides a tip of the day on smoke detectors, advising to check if they are over 5 years old and highlighting new models with photoelectric sensors for better protection against slow smoldering fires. For the dads in your life, consider upgrading their favorite spaces like garages or man caves with LED lighting or shelving, and Leslie raves about the convenience and security of installing a keyless entry system. Donna has a disgusting problem at a fitness facility shower with slimy, brown mold that bleach hasn't fixed. We recommend controlling humidity and using a commercial cleaner like Zep Shower Tub & Tile Cleaner. Michael's got a cracking pool deck, a common issue due to ground movement. We suggest Quikrete's Crack Seal, a latex emulsion product designed to flow into and solidify those cracks for a lasting fix, unlike mortar or concrete. Finally, we'll help Abby, a DIY novice, with her project of refinishing a sun-damaged front door, recommending taking it off its hinges, using a vibrating sander, and choosing a door finish with high UV protection. ASK A QUESTION: We're here every week, and you can always call us at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) if your home needs a fix! Or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Looking for privacy? Today, we'll explore natural landscaping screens over traditional fencing. Plus, discover the benefits of metal roofing for summer replacements and learn how to easily renovate your stairs for a fresh interior look. Listen in for info to create your best home ever, with tips for projects both big and small! - Stairs: Stepping up the style of your outdated stairs is a great DIY project for home design. - Privacy Screen: Landscaped privacy screens are a natural alternative to building a fence. - Metal Roofs: If you’re thinking about roof replacement, find out the unique benefits of installing a metal roof. Q & A: - Plumbing: Mary would like to install a tankless water heater, but since she has electric heat, she should switch to a high-efficiency heat pump water heater instead. - Grading: Vinnie needs suggestions for leveling his hilly backyard. He gets info about sloping away from the foundation, raising the soil level and how to retain it, and installing a curtain drain to redirect water from the wettest areas. - Garden: How can you get plants to grow in shady areas? Hostas, copper plants, and begonias are a few options, but Janna should speak with pros at a local garden center. - Pool Repair: Barb has an older pool that’s used a lot, but it has cracks, exposed rebar, and tile that needs replacing. It’s all repairable, and we discuss some ideas for fixing the pool. 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're diving into the benefits of natural swimming pools, taking a peek at the latest kitchen and bath design trends, and sharing smart maintenance tips to keep your wood fence in top shape this summer. Plus, we’ve got answers to more DIY home improvement questions! - Swimming Pools: Create a backyard oasis and discover the joys of natural swimming pools. - Kitchen & Bath: A new survey highlights the latest trends in kitchen and bath design. - Wood Fence: Make sure your wood fence looks great and lasts for years to come with these simple maintenance tips. Q & A: - Plumbing: Holly’s new washing machine is making terrible banging noises. She gets tips for making sure the appliance is level and installing a water hammer arrestor. - Solar Panels: Should Albert install solar panels on the roof or in an area behind his house? There are pros and cons to putting it over the roof vs. in an open area with full sun exposure. - Deck Cleaning: Nancy wants to clean her deck and finds out how to apply a mix of water and bleach detergent without any ammonia. - Electrical: Steve is concerned that none of the outlets in the kitchen are grounded. It’s possible to use GFCI outlets with two wires, but he should have an electrician do an evaluation. - Sandbox: Laurie has her questions answered about whether it’s a good idea to build a backyard sandbox for her grandchildren. - Patio: Alicia’s deck sits on a cement slab patio where a crack is getting bigger. We’ve got suggestions for sealing the crack and installing a layer of pavers over 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 show, learn how to play it safe on the playground, keep your cool with better insulation, and build a fence that stands the test of time. All that and more home improvement advice in today’s episode! - Playground Safety: Keep kids safe by taking the proper precautions with backyard playgrounds. - Insulation: Learn why summer is the perfect time to assess your home’s insulation and sealing. - Fences: Find out how to be a good neighbor with tips for building a good fence. Q & A: - Drainage: Kevin has water coming up around the pipes in his concrete slab when it rains. He must check for drainage issues outside the home to prevent water from pooling around the foundation. - HVAC: The upstairs loft gets much warmer than the rest of the house all year long. Amber gets advice on using the ceiling fan more efficiently and installing a mini-split ductless system. - Foundation: Barry added a section to his concrete slab and water is seeping between the seams. An advanced polymer crack sealer may solve the problem. - Stains: The banister with metal rails left rust stains on the pavers. Tamara can try scrubbing the surface with lemon juice and vinegar using a wire brush. - Driveway: Scott’s stone aggregate driveway is starting to crumble. It would be hard to repair if it continues to deteriorate, so it may be time to replace the driveway instead. - Flooring: There’s condensation on Annette’s ceramic tile floor, caused by the cold tile meeting warm inside air. A whole-house dehumidifier would be very effective and make things more comfortable. - Renovations: How can Kaye estimate the costs of renovating a home that’s been vacant for 7 years? She should start with a home inspector to assess what needs to be done. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today, learn about stylish and affordable backyard deck trends, why starting your renovation with an architect like SketchHaus can save time and money, and essential safety reminders before using lawn equipment this season. Plus, we got expert home improvement advice for DIY callers just like you! - Deck Space: Spruce up your backyard deck space with these trends that can deliver style without a big expense. - Architecture: Get valuable architectural advice from our discussion with an expert at SketchHaus Architects. - Outdoor Safety: Remember these essential safety reminders before using outdoor equipment this season. Q & A: - Brick: The brick wall behind the fireplace is covered with glue. It’s hard to remove without ruining the brick, so Debbie should consider adding a new layer of drywall or faux brick or stone. - HVAC: Paul needs to heat the mudroom that he’s converting into a bathroom. Options include an electric heater, a mini-split ductless system, or radiant heating under the floor. - Porch Columns: It seems carpenter ants or termites are damaging the porch column bases. Justina gets tips for determining if it’s insects or decay, and how to treat the area. - Caulking: Can Richard paint over silicone caulk that he accidentally used on cedar siding? It shouldn’t be painted and he’s better off softening and scraping out the caulk 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

SHOW NOTES: In this show, we explore why factory-built homes can outshine traditional builds in quality and energy efficiency, discuss essential A/C servicing tips to keep your system summer-ready, and share expert advice for a flawless exterior paint job. Plus, we’ve got answers for more home improvement questions! - Factory-Built Homes: Learn why a home built in a factory can be better built than one constructed onsite. - Air Conditioning: Be ready to beat the summer heat by testing your air conditioning system. - Exterior Painting: Follow these steps to make your exterior painting project last for years to come. Q & A: - Flooring: The polyurethane finish is bubbling on Peggy’s old Saltillo tile floor. She gets tips for scraping and refinishing the surface or installing a new floor over the tile. - Porch: An addition to Charlie’s concrete porch is rising above the adjacent slab. It may be caused by expansive clay soil that requires careful preparation. - Addition: Joan wants to enclose a patio space for her cats. She should consult a professional to do a layout and specs because it would be a big project. - Water Damage: Raccoons busted the pipes under Brian’s raised house and it’s starting to sink. His insurance company should cover the damage from the sudden dispersal of water. - Low Water Pressure: Krista’s home has low water pressure from the shared well. She should test the water pressure at different points to detect where there may be a restriction. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, discover a faster and easier way to build decks and patios, get the buzz on backyard beekeeping, and learn how to stage your home for a successful open house. Plus, listen in for answers to more home improvement questions to make your next DIY project a success! - Building a Deck: Build a deck faster and easier with a new system that saves time, labor, and money. - Backyard Beehives: Get the buzz on backyard beekeeping and the sweet benefits of homegrown honey. - Selling Your Home: Attract more buyers with tips for staging your home for a successful open house. Q & A: - Countertops: Carolyn was surprised to see dull spots on her quartz kitchen countertops. Quartz surfaces do require maintenance and should be polished and sealed every few years. - Roofing: There’s condensation on the bathroom vent and stains on the ceiling. Kent should check if the flashing around the roof vent needs to be replaced, and then bleach, prime, and paint the ceiling. - Deck Stain: The stain on Mike’s decks is already peeling and discolored again. He’ll need to strip it again and use an oil-based primer and a solid stain to last longer, or else consider installing composite boards. - Window Repair: The glazing is coming out of Dana’s fixed pane picture windows. She gets tips on how to remove the window trim and replace the glazing with silicone caulk. - Solar Panels: Joe is upset by false promises made about the expensive solar panels he had installed. We discuss options to pay off or transfer the contract, updates In solar technology, and contacting an attorney for issues with a misleading contract. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, we'll uncover how to find and eliminate hidden germs in your home. Then, learn about a home improvement company dedicated to finding permanent homes for children in foster care. And if your landscaping is giving you a headache, we've got tips on choosing hassle-free shrubs. We’re here to help with all your DIY projects, so listen in for more answers to your home improvement questions! - House Cleaning: Keep your home healthy and clean by finding germs that are hiding in plain sight. - Easy-Care Shrubs: Sprucing up your outdoor space is easy with low-maintenance shrubs. Q & A: - Deck Stain: Pauline wants advice on how to preserve the surface of her covered deck. She should apply an oil-based primer first, then use a latex solid color stain to make it last. - Structural: The wood header above Dave’s garage door is rotted. He needs to build a temporary wall to support the rafters while replacing the header. - Bathroom: Diane’s vent fan is not removing the steam from the bathroom. She or her landlord has to make sure that the exhaust is going outside her apartment. - Siding: Wind blew pieces of siding off the house, and other areas are disconnected. Pete gets tips on using a zip tool to reattach any loose siding and still allow movement - Roofing: Melting ice leaked into the sliding glass door tracks, and Norma was told she needs a new roof. She can file an insurance claim for any damage caused by ice dams. - Crawlspace: Peter says the dehumidifier in his crawlspace is always running. We have advice for checking the exterior grading, gutters, and downspouts to reduce moisture around the house. - Flooring: Part of Heather’s hardwood floor was damaged by spilled water. She can take a section of matching floor from a hidden area and use it to replace that spot. - New Deck: When should Tony stain the new deck he had built? He should wait for the first year, then use a good quality clear finish if he wants to see the wood grain. 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: Get ready for summer with water-saving solutions and outdoor living tips! Discover new plumbing fixtures to effortlessly reduce water usage, hear the NAR and NARI 2025 Remodeling report, and get top picks for lawnmowers. Whatever your home improvement project may be, listen in for all the advice you need! - Saving Water: Saving water is made easier with water-saving plumbing fixtures. - Remodeling: Find out which remodeling projects bring homeowners the greatest joy. - Lawn Mowers: New rankings reveal the best lawnmowers that make the cut with Consumer Reports. Q & A: - Windows: Brad likes the look of his old windows, but he needs advice for either having them repaired or installing replacement windows. - Pool: Dorothy finds out the steps involved in having an inground pool removed and getting the space filled in. - Ceiling: What material should Bryce use to replace the damaged wallboard in his bathroom ceiling? He can put water-resistant greenboard right over the existing drywall. - Skylights: Will the light from a tubular skylight interfere with viewing TV in the daytime? Ginny shouldn’t have any problems from the diffused overhead light. - Roofing: The old tar is cracking around the outside edges of Pete’s patio roof. It doesn’t seem like a good idea to patch the tar, and we recommend replacing the roof. - Flooring: Robin is scraping up old carpet glue and wants to install vinyl plank flooring. If the flooring planks are rigid enough, they shouldn’t show any remaining lumps. - Ventilation: Conrad is thinking of putting a solar-powered attic fan over the garage, but an attic fan is not a good idea if it will pull air from any living space and out through the attic. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show is all about making the most of your home's spaces! First, we'll discuss choosing durable, low-maintenance kitchen countertops. Then, we'll explore making use of the area under your second-story deck with under-deck drainage systems. And if your asphalt driveway is worn out, we have expert replacement tips. Save time, money, and effort with answers to these and other home improvement questions! - Countertops: Busy kitchens require the most durable countertop materials that are easy to maintain. - Driveway Repair: Get tips on replacing an asphalt driveway that’s showing wear and tear. Q & A: - Water Heater: Will a tankless water heater get hot water to the shower faster? Sharon will have endless hot water on demand, but it still needs to travel to the farthest spot in the home. - Painting Ceiling: Bill removed the popcorn ceiling in his bathroom, and gets tips for sealing the surface with a quality primer before applying a top coat of flat paint. - Mold: How can Judy clean mold off the outside brick without damaging the mortar? We recommend applying a slow-working mildewcide product that washes off the mold. - Plumbing: Doug learns that it’s a great idea to use SharkBite fittings instead of soldering to create a watertight seal while changing the outside faucets. - Lighting: Bill replaced the incandescent lighting with an LED lighting fixture and notices a delay before the light comes on. It’s often normal for it to take some time. - Bathroom Leak: Kirsten has water spots on the ceiling under the upstairs bathroom. She gets advice on how to test for leaks in the shower pan, caulk, and grout. - Flooring: What would be a good vinyl flooring product to replace Carson’s carpet? There are lots of options, but we need more details to know what works best for that area. - Electrical: Carol is replacing old electrical outlets and has questions about the correct wiring. This isn’t a DIY project and she should call a professional 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

SHOW NOTES: Today’s show shines a spotlight on home safety! First, learn what to check to prevent deck collapses, and then discover how to protect your home’s water quality. Finally, find out why metal roofs are your best bet against severe weather. Get answers to these and other home improvement questions on this Money Pit episode! - Deck Collapse: Safeguard your outdoor fun with a five-step DIY checkup to avoid a deck collapse. - Water Quality: Learn how to maintain high-quality water that’s clean, safe, and tastes great. - Metal Roofs: Ride out the storm with a metal roof that stands up to severe weather. Q & A: - Concrete Repair: Annie’s concrete porch is crumbling, but it’s easy to repair with Quikrete products that can restore the concrete surface. - Flooring: What kind of flooring can be installed over a radiant heating system? Steve can use just about any kind of flooring, but should be careful not to nail into the heating elements. - Cleaning: Lucy gets tips for cleaning dirty outdoor furniture, using the right methods and cleaning products for different types of furniture materials. - Handrails: Should Fred install single or double handrails for egress steps from his basement? We suggest checking his local building codes, but two handrails would be a safe option. - Pests: Pesky cluster flies are coming from the HVAC floor register. It’s a pretty common problem, but Karen should call a professional that will use the right kind of pesticide. - Concrete Floor: The garage floor is not level and water is running toward low spots near the house. Bill learns about using a self-leveling compound on the concrete floor. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this home improvement episode, find out what defines a truly green product, get tips on designing a room that grows with your child, and discover how to create a stunning countertop in a weekend without breaking the bank. Plus, get answers to questions from homeowners just like you for more DIY projects! - Green Products: Go beyond the labels and learn what defines truly green products for your home. - Advice from Angie: The founder of Angie.com offers DIY advice. - Kids’ Rooms: Design space-saving rooms that can adapt to your growing kids. Q & A: - Painting: Dan wants to paint his vinyl siding. He’d be setting himself up for years of repainting it, so we suggest changing the color of his door, trim, or shutters instead. - Plumbing: Barbara’s toilet makes a bubbling sound and doesn’t fully flush. A partial obstruction may be causing a venting issue that needs to be unblocked with an auger. - HVAC: Carl is concerned about a new refrigerant that replaced Freon in 2023, but it’s more efficient and environmentally friendly. - Bath Remodel: Who should you use for bathroom remodeling? Macey should determine exactly what she wants done and then get bids on the specs from experienced bathroom contractors. - Epoxy Flooring: Applying a durable epoxy coating is a DIY project that Greg can do to make a concrete floor more attractive. - Foundation: Brenda’s poured concrete basement walls are starting to crumble. She needs a structural engineer to determine how to make the proper repairs. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In this show, get expert advice on creating a simple landscaping plan to transform your outdoor space, finding the right shovel for your outdoor landscaping needs, and cleaning delicate window shades without risking damage. Plus, stay tuned for answers to more home improvement questions to create your best home ever! - Window Shades: Get tips on how to clean delicate window shades without damaging them. - Shovels: Having the right shovel helps to get outdoor projects done more easily. - Landscaping: Design a stunningly simple landscaping plan for your home, lifestyle, and budget. Q & A: - Foundation: A crack in the concrete slab foundation has gotten wider and there’s a dip in the floor. Rachel should call a structural engineer to determine the issue and repairs. - Bees: Carpenter bees are boring holes all over Jim’s log cabin. The right pesticide should work to get rid of them, and then he can replace some of the wood with composite material. - Siding: Lynne wants to protect the cedar siding on her old house. Options include applying boiled linseed oil to protect the surface or using a primer and a solid stain. - Lighting: Pete wants to install recessed can lights on the first floor of his home. It’s not a DIY job because wiring must be properly fished through the finished ceiling. - Flooring: After pulling up the carpet, Nancy has a squeaky subfloor. She learns how to find the floor joists and use screws to tighten the wood before installing a new floor over 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, we’ve got tips for creating an outdoor escape, continue our chat with George Olipant of “George to the Rescue,” and offer advice on testing your soil to grow a lusher lawn. Plus, listen in for more home improvement answers to your DIY questions! - TREX RAIN Escape: Learn more about this outdoor product integration. - George Oliphant: Join us for interview #2 with the host of George to the Rescue. - Lawn Care: Test your soil for a lush lawn that will make the neighbors green with envy. Q & A: - Ceiling: There’s no way to completely avoid the mess of removing a popcorn ceiling, but Laurie gets helpful tips for using the wet scrape method to make it easier. - Cleaning: How can Dennis remove roofing cement that spilled on the cement garage floor? He’ll need to use a wire brush and some solvent to scrape it off, then refinish the surface. - Plumbing: A cracked sewer pipe flooded Helen’s basement. Her homeowner’s insurance should cover having a remediation company clean and repair the damage. - Lightning Rod: Jason gets advice on preventing lightning damage to his metal roof and how a lightning rod works. - Moisture: Laura has moisture on her walls and gets lots of information about improving outside drainage, running the AC, using vent fans, and installing a whole house dehumidifier. - Chimney: Richard gets guidance on applying masonry sealer on the porous brick behind his chimney. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: In today's episode, we've got you covered from garden to garage! We’ll share tips for building a sturdy stone garden wall, speak with NBC’s George Oliphant from George to the Rescue, and help you safely store flammable liquids to avoid garage fire hazards. Tune in for essential advice to upgrade and safeguard your home! - Flammable Liquids: Storing flammable liquids safely is key to avoiding fire hazards in your garage. - George to the Rescue: Listen in for our chat with NBC’s George Oliphant. - Garden Walls: Get rock-solid tips for building a stone garden wall that lasts. Q & A: - Handrail: Karen wants to add a sturdy railing to her porch steps. Locating the proper attachment points and using the right kind of screws are important. - Siding: Rich’s cedar siding is looking weathered, but cleaning it well and then applying an oil-based primer and an exterior color stain will give it a new and lasting look. - Electrical: Do GFCI outlets need their own circuit breakers? Belinda learns that the outlets themselves are circuit breakers and gets tips on how to test them. - Flooring: George wants to replace the family room carpet with a wood floor. He should secure the subfloor before adding prefinished hardwood that’s durable and easy to install. - Plumbing: We have plumbing advice for Jackie, who’s replacing an old tub with a tile shower and needs to install a new shower diverter valve. - Odors: A tenant’s cigarette smoke left behind odors and discoloration. John gets info on how to clean, seal, or remove the walls, floors, carpets, drapes, and upholstery. 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: Transform your home and garden with expert tips on today's episode! We start with strategies for optimizing your garage workspace for DIY projects, then chat with HGTV’s Clint Robertson. Finally, learn the importance of deep cleaning your washing machine from dirt and odors, and hear answers to more home improvement questions! - Washing Machine: Put a new spin on laundry day by deep cleaning your washing machine to banish dirt and odors. - HGTV’s Clint Robertson of the “Boise Boys” - Garage Space: Get tips for creating an efficient garage workspace to make every DIYer more productive. Q & A: - Crown Molding: Tracy wants to install crown molding and learns that high-density foam trim is an easy DIY solution. - Repairing Windows: Cameron has two options for accessing and restringing the counterweights inside his old windows without damaging the trim. - Closet Rod: The weight of heavy clothes has bowed the closet rod and pulled it away from the wall. Bea gets tips for installing sturdy brackets to support the shelf and rod. - HVAC: We have advice for Gail on installing a mixing valve to regulate the water temperature without lowering the heat in her home. - Water Infiltration: Dewey needs to find and remediate the underlying cause of bad odors in his basement after a past sewage backup. - Plumbing: There’s a loud banging in the basement whenever Nicole uses the toilet, shower, or washing machine. It may be water hammer or her well pump going on and off. - Pests: How can Kelly can rid of the bugs, slugs and rodents in her garden? We recommend calling a pest control professional to treat the specific problems. 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