The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

SHOW NOTES: Hello and welcome back to the Money Pit Home Improvement Show! I'm Leslie Segrete, joined by my amazing partner-in-crime, Jim Kenzie. We've got a fantastic hour packed with valuable insights and solutions for your home improvement woes, from floorboards to shingles, inside and out. It's been quite the summer here at the Segrete household, with unexpected repairs, so we know exactly what it’s like to navigate your own "money pit" moments. Here's a recap of the main themes and calls for this hour: - Optimizing Outdoor Living & Landscaping: We delve into smart maintenance tips for your in-ground sprinkler system to conserve water and keep your lawn healthy. We also introduce the innovative Ladera stackable stone system for easy outdoor upgrades like fire pits and garden beds, eliminating the need for traditional stonework. - Navigating Home Renovation Costs: We discuss how recent tariffs on lumber, appliances, and fixtures are impacting renovation budgets, sharing crucial tips for smart homeowners to protect their bottom line. - Boosting Home Value & ROI: We reveal the top home improvement projects that offer the best return on investment, helping you prioritize where to spend your renovation dollars. Q & A: - Dave from Maryland discovered his new roof was installed directly over significantly rotted roof rafters, causing the section to sag and leak. We advise him to pay only a partial amount of the bill, formally disputing the quality of the incomplete work in writing. - Courtney in Texas is struggling with a persistent cigarette odor in her home despite extensive renovations. When carpet was replaced, the plywood subfloor should have been sealed with a primer/sealer, and we suggest upgrading her HVAC system to effectively scrub residual odors from the air. - Frankie called about her old, gray kitchen countertop that she wants to replace or paint. We recommend DIY countertop finishing kits from Daich Coatings for a durable and attractive restoration. - Rick from Illinois is seeking a reputable company to install solar panels on his large lot. We caution him to conduct thorough research on all available government incentives and to carefully vet any solar companies to avoid rushing into a significant long-term investment. - Tony emailed about an elaborate method he devised using a shop vac to remove calcium deposits from his water heater's bottom element. His method was unnecessary and could be risky. The water heater's internal drain valve is designed for this task, requiring only a garden hose to flush out the deposits. 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: Hello and welcome back to the Money Pit Home Improvement Show! I'm Leslie Segrete, joined by my amazing partner-in-crime, Jim Kenzie. We've got a fantastic hour packed with valuable insights and solutions for your home improvement woes, from floorboards to shingles, inside and out. Here's a preview of what's coming up this hour: - Kitchen Cabinet Cleaning: We'll share crucial advice on tackling tough kitchen grease and residue on cabinets, making them look new again. - Roof Replacement: Considering a new roof? We'll explore the pros and cons of metal roofs versus asphalt shingles and discuss whether a roof replacement is a DIY project for you. - Cracked Foundation: Got a cracked foundation or a dipping floor? We'll explain the serious signs to look out for and who to call for proper diagnosis. - Exterior Painting: Discover the perfect timing and techniques for exterior house painting to ensure a long-lasting, pro-level finish. - Energy Efficiency: Plus, get smart tips on upgrading your home's efficiency, from swapping out old light bulbs to understanding when it's time to replace your water heater. Q & A: - We'll hear from Margie in Ohio, who's asking for the best product to remove grit and grease from her maple kitchen cabinets above the hood area without causing damage. - Joey from Illinois is on the line with a question about replacing his 22-year-old roof and wondering if he can install a metal roof himself. - Maria just bought a house and is dealing with a rather unusual situation: a carpeted front step that's hard to remove, and she's asking for suggestions to improve its curb appeal and texture. - Butch from Texas is calling because his home inspector noted that his bathroom fan vents directly into the attic, and he wants to know the proper way to vent it to the outside. - Later, we'll help Charles from Texas, who's searching for a specific, highly effective, three-letter product for cleaning showers. - And from our email bag, Julie in Nebraska, a new first-time homeowner, is asking about different interior paint finishes and which ones are easiest to clean, especially with kids. 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: It’s been a hot one out there, and some of us have been battling our own home issues, like Leslie’s air conditioning woes. But we’re here to lend a hand, no matter what you're tackling this summer! We’ve got a fantastic show lined up for you today, packed with expert advice and practical solutions for your biggest home challenges. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up on The Money Pit: - Landscape Heatwave Survival: We’ll dive into smart ways to help your lawn and garden survive scorching temperatures with essential watering tips, clever mowing tricks, and how to protect your sensitive potted plants from baking in the sun. - Roof Maxx Roof Rejuvenation: We’re joined by Mike Feazel, CEO and co-founder of Roof Maxx, who will share how this innovative treatment can protect your roof from blistering heat, pounding storms, sun damage, thermal shock, and hail, extending roof life and helping you avoid costly replacements. - Concrete Resurfacing Solutions: Discover how to give your cracked, pitted, or weatherworn concrete surfaces a second life with products like Quickrete’s Recap Trowel Grade Resurfacer. We’ll explain how these solutions can dramatically improve your curb appeal at a fraction of the cost of tearing out and replacing old concrete, plus provide a durable, long-lasting finish. Q & A: - Karen from Texas is seeking a solution for her cracked driveway that won’t involve tearing out all the concrete from her 1970s home. Quikrete’s Re-Cap Resurfacer product is an excellent option for this repair and can be used over the existing concrete. - Jeff in Pennsylvania is curious about economically moving chilly basement air upstairs to cool the rest of his home. This isn’t a great idea, and he should instead rely on his central HVAC system, possibly with a return duct in the finished basement. - Dave from Iowa calls about a persistent rotten egg smell in his farmhouse, noting he has well water and a water softener. We think the hot water heater’s anode may be causing the smell. - Susan from Alaska wants advice on removing tile from her fireplace hearth and successfully painting the brick underneath. This repair has some challenges, and she should be prepared to remove adhesive. Also, once brick is painted, it’s nearly impossible to change. - Lauren, who sent an email, has acquired a neglected property with overgrown ivy, gaps, and cracks in the siding. The best way to assess the house’s current condition is to get a full home inspection, with a report that will identify the best places to start. 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 a show packed with tips to make your home look and feel better and safer. We'll also be tackling home improvement questions from across the country, including calls from DIYers just like you! Here's what's ahead on The Money Pit: - Late Summer Clean and Refresh: We'll bring you smart tips to tidy up your spaces, freshen the air, and reset your home before the autumn back-to-school buzz and pumpkin spice takeover. - Protecting Your Home from Water Damage: With flash floods and heavy rain making headlines, we'll share smart, simple steps to protect your house from water damage and ensure you stay informed with weather alerts. - Fast, Smart Fire Safety Checks: We'll walk you through essential fire safety checks, from your backyard grills to your garden gear, so you can relax and safely enjoy the season. - SpreadStone Decorative Concrete Resurfacing Kit Giveaway: One lucky caller will win this DIY dream, valued at $150, which transforms plain concrete into a stunning stone finish. Q & A: - Brian in Arkansas is dealing with a mysterious musty odor in his crawlspace that only appears in the summertime when he's away from home. An exhaust fan might just be what he needs to improve air quality - Linda in Maryland needs advice on how to repair and conceal cracks in the concrete slabs on her brick porches. We advise her to caulk the area and sprinkle with dust and chips to match the current concrete color. - Keith in Georgia has a problem with bats in his attic, specifically bat droppings, and needs to know the best way to evict them safely. - Leah in California says her dad's AC system has been leaking Freon for years! Instead of just refilling the refrigerant, we recommend finding out the root cause of the leak and addressing that. - Courtney in New Jersey has a raised garden bed with several tree stumps that need to be removed, and she's looking for suggestions on how to tackle them when a grinder might be difficult to use. - Judy in Texas is experiencing significant problems with deer eating all her plants and is seeking solutions to keep them away from her garden. We recommend a variety of solutions to keep those hungry deer out. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Welcome back to The Money Pit, your ultimate guide to making good homes better! We're here every week, ready to take your calls and tackle your home improvement dilemmas, whether you have questions about painting, plumbing, home safety, security, your roof and gutters, electrical work, energy efficiency, or even curb appeal ideas. Coming up, we'll cover some essential topics to keep your home in top shape, including: - Smart Summer Lawn Care Tips: Learn how to water wisely, mow like a pro, and keep your yard green without wasting time or money, making it easier than you think to win the battle against the summer heat. - Metal Roofs: If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, find out why metal roofs aren't just for barns anymore. We’ll discuss their styles, incredible storm protection, and the surprising ways they can save you money, energy, and maintenance for decades. - Storm-Proofing Your Home: Get simple steps to prepare your home and yard for storms, plus how to build an emergency kit so you’re not caught off guard when the thunder rolls. - Summer Heat Safety: We'll also cover crucial tips to keep your home cool and safe during dangerous heat waves. Q & A: - Alex from West Virginia has a question about grading the lot of his 1926 American Four Square home, which has a significant 10-foot drop. He wants to level out his front and back yards, so we recommend building a retaining wall, but emphasize the need for proper engineering due to the project's size and scope. - Helen from Montana was on the line with a bubbling paint question. We suggested the paint might not have adhered because the wood was too wet or the correct primer wasn't used, and advised her to contact the painter to resolve the issue. - Kevin from Rhode Island asked about keeping his basement dry after replacing a 3-foot downspout extension with a 2-foot cement one and noticing his basement became damp. To keep his basement drier, he needs to move excess moisture away from the foundation, extending downspouts at least 3 feet away, and consider a dehumidifier for the space. - Debbie from Ontario called with a question about cracks in her concrete patio that appeared shortly after it was poured. We identified that there's no structural repair needed, so she can cosmetically seal the cracks with a suitable product. - Doug in Florida inquired about rust stains on his concrete pool deck from patio furniture and pool ladders. We explained that the rust is likely from iron deposits in his water, and there’s likely not much he can do to stop it long-term. - Gail from Massachusetts suspected mold in her den because it smelled after it rained. She should focus on ventilation and dehumidification, plus addressing external drainage issues like clogged gutters, downspout placement, and sloping soil around the house to reduce overall moisture. ASK A QUESTION: Need help with your own home improvement or décor question? We’d love to help! Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here: https://www.moneypit.com/ask. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW NOTES: Hello, home improvement enthusiasts! We're so glad you're with us, especially as July is almost over and the year is just flying by. Life changes, but The Money Pit is here to be your constant guide through all your home improvement adventures. Coming up, we've got tips to keep your home thriving all summer long! - Staycation Tips: We share easy, affordable ways to turn your home into an ultimate staycation spot, from creating spa vibes in your bathroom to resort-worthy backyard spaces. - Saving Water: Water usage often spikes in the summer, so we’ll dive into irrigation checks, sump pump tests, searching out those slow leaks, and even some water-saving tips to keep everything in tip-top shape and save you some money. - Summer Home Maintenance: Now that we're halfway through summer, we've got your midsummer home maintenance checklist. These quick, proactive projects will help you avoid breakdowns, catch hidden issues, and keep your home running smoothly all season long without the panic of a mid-August surprise repair. Q & A: We're also going to hear from some of our listeners about their burning home improvement questions, including: - Darlene from West Virginia asked about putting a metal roof on her home. We advised that it's generally best to take the roof down to the sheathing for a durable, long-lasting investment like a metal roof, which can last 50+ years. - Jules called in about dealing with cracked plaster walls in an old home, wondering whether to rip it out or patch it. We discussed how to determine if the plaster is repairable or if it’s time to put in some drywall. - Sharon from Ohio has an issue with her furnace pulling sewer gas from her sump pump. This is likely due to a missing or dried-out P-trap in the drain line, which prevents sewer gases from entering the home. - Bill in Illinois had a question about cracks in his 28-year-old shower tub after a fall. While a fiberglass repair kit can offer a temporary, emergency fix, a more permanent and economical solution might be a bath fitter-type shower insert that covers the existing tub. - Buck from New England wrote in about adding vinyl siding to his summer home. We recommended he remove the old siding, add a new weather barrier like Tyvek paper, and then install the vinyl siding for a better look around windows and doors. Plus, we'll touch on other quick tips like how to maintain your fridge to keep it cool in the summer heat by vacuuming condenser coils and checking door seals. 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 hour, we'll tackle a variety of common homeowner issues and share valuable advice to keep your home comfortable, safe, and looking its best. Here are some of the main topics we covered, along with the specific home projects our callers are working on: - Cool Tips for Heat Wave Home Comfort: We share several strategies to help your home stay cool during a heat wave without escalating energy bills. - Backyard Pool Considerations: We weigh the pros and cons of installing a pool, noting that while pools offer entertainment and can add value in hot climates, they come with significant initial costs and ongoing maintenance expenses. - Home Safety While Traveling: We offer essential tips to keep your home safe while on vacation, emphasizing making it appear occupied. - Smart Roofing Upgrades for Cooling: We discuss how your roof impacts your home's temperature and energy bills, highlighting cool roof designs that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. - Grill Cleaning & Maintenance: We’ve got practical tips on cleaning and maintaining your grill to ensure better flavor, extend its lifespan, and provide a safer cooking experience. Q & A: - Allison from New York needs advice on humanely trapping a squirrel running between her drop ceiling and basement. - Gary calls about a stubborn barbecue grease stain on the deck that household soap couldn't remove. We suggest using a commercial deck cleaner or stain stripper. - Nancy from Arkansas asks for the best way to remove cobwebs and clean her mom's popcorn ceiling. - John from Missouri is puzzled why his pressure-treated wood is rotting within two years despite being sealed with a solid stain. - Judy from Minnesota observed moisture halfway down the paneling in her 40-year-old home, suspecting condensation and the need to reduce humidity. - Earl called about buckling vinyl siding, likely due to being installed too tightly. Doing so prevented proper expansion and contraction, or not enough “breathing room.” - Robin from New Jersey says her ceiling fan light comes on by itself at weird times. Flickering lights often indicate a loose wire or short circuit, and we recommend calling an electrician for investigation. 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 hour, we're focusing on eco-friendly home improvements and design tips to help your money pit and Mother Nature, especially as we've just experienced a significant heatwave across the US. We're exploring how to save some green while going green this summer, with easy, affordable projects that can shrink your energy bills, cut back on waste, and help the planet. Here’s a look at the topics and calls we’ll cover: - Attic Upgrades: Your attic can either work for you or against you in the summer. We're sharing smart attic upgrades to keep your home cooler, cut energy costs, and protect your home from summer's worst side effects. - Strategic Landscaping for Cooling: You can cool your home without touching the thermostat by letting nature do the work. We discuss how strategic landscaping, such as planting shade trees, can naturally reduce heat and energy bills while giving your yard a green upgrade. - Eco-Friendly Design and DIY Projects: We're all about eco-friendly home upgrades that benefit both the planet and your wallet. Q & A: - Mike from Alaska called in with a question about an upstairs window that leaks when it rains, noting drips from the soffits. We discussed potential causes, including backed-up gutters, failed sealant, or improper flashing. - Susan from California asked about options for her 38-year-old asphalt driveway that needs to be redone, but she doesn't want to resurface with blacktop. - Mark has a beautiful log cabin home that hasn't been stained in 8 years and is fading. We advise him on the process of cleaning the raw lumber, letting it dry, and then choosing a stain that includes UV protection. - Ed is dealing with a serious issue with his 1880s Victorian home's brick foundation, where the bottom layer of bricks is starting to bow out. For such a critical structural concern, we strongly recommend consulting a structural engineer to diagnose the problem. - Darlene from Texas has a flagstone patio with uneven stones and nothing between the cracks. - Carl from Massachusetts emailed us about a foul odor coming from his newly installed dishwasher. This is often due to bio-gas buildup, and we have tips on how to clean those trouble spots. 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: We’ve got a great show planned this hour, with great tips to help you achieve your design dreams and enjoy your money pit, both indoors and out! Coming up, join us for home improvement topics that include: - Making a Small Room Feel Bigger with simple paint color tricks to make your indoor spaces feel more inviting. - We celebrate 85 Years of QUIKRETE Innovation with Jeff Russell, who’s been with the company for more than 30 years, to help with DIY concrete repairs! - Getting Your Grill Ready for Summer and Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen with the right fuel types, must-have gas grill features, and design tips your guests will love. Q & A: Let’s turn your to-do list into a done list with answers to these and other home improvement questions from today’s callers: - Carolyn in Pennsylvania is dealing with a persistent musty odor from mold in her kitchen lazy Susan cabinet. - Jason in New Jersey is looking for an affordable countertop refinishing solution for his kitchen renovation that offers a durable coating. - Marie in Ontario, Canada, asked about the efficiency of using ceiling fans or her furnace fan versus the air conditioner as options for cooling her ranch house. - Kevin in Georgia struggles with a carpenter bee infestation around his screen porch and privacy fence, despite using various extermination methods. - Pat in Arkansas has a new heat pump that is not reducing humidity like she was hoping it would. - Caitlyn from New York asks what to look out for when repairing water damage in a home that was built in 1820. 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 hour, we've given you permission to relax on your long holiday weekend, although it’s also totally cool to use the time to tackle some projects around your money pit! We’ll be covering some fantastic topics, including: - Five easy ways to upgrade your space on a budget, making your home feel fresh, stylish, and totally “you” without spending a bundle. - The importance of a quick summer roof check and how a simple treatment can help you avoid costly repairs and extend your roof's life by years. - An easy DIY project that adds style, seating, and serious summer vibes all in one weekend: how to build a backyard bench that's simple, budget-friendly, and totally custom. Q & A: And speaking of calls, we heard from quite a few of you with your pressing home improvement questions! Here’s a quick recap of who called in: - Robin in Missouri called about disgusting mold in her Jacuzzi tub's internal plumbing system and the fading finish of her previously restored tub. - Larry in Louisiana is dealing with a significant issue: a sinking addition on his pier house, causing a noticeable bow in his kitchen floor. - Taylor asked for advice on how to fix annoying swelling doors that stick! - Kevin from Wisconsin messaged us, seeking guidance on choosing between a metal roof and asphalt shingles for a new 1,700-square-foot home. - Reena in Massachusetts was undertaking a painting project after removing old vinyl wallpaper and asked for advice on preparing the walls and priming. - David in Texas has concerns about water leakage when replacing a sliding glass door on his patio. - Martha sent an email to ask how to remove paint from a brick fireplace. - Mark, via email, needed to ensure his plywood subfloor was flat before installing new engineered wood flooring. 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: You've tuned into "The Money Pit," your weekly guide to making your home sweet home the best it can be without turning it into a bottomless money pit! This week, we share helpful tips on: - Getting rid of those stubborn tree stumps without breaking the bank. - Boosting your home's curb appeal and efficiency with gorgeous Therma-Tru fiberglass doors that look just like wood, but without the upkeep. - Rocking your outdoor space with a new stackable stone to build great-looking patios and fire pits more easily than ever. Plus, tips on everything from cleaning your dishwasher to keeping your smoke detectors in tip-top shape, and even how to invite some high-speed sparkle to your yard with hummingbirds. Q & A: We also have our incredible callers who reached out to us with their home improvement questions! Here’s a quick rundown of who we heard from and what they're tackling: - Eleanor in Virginia has a question about dark, mold-like spots on her gray Trex decking that are difficult to remove with a power washer or bleach. - Tommy in Alaska is battling an "ice-cold water issue,” with super low cold water pressure at just one kitchen faucet in his duplex. - Pat called in with a painting question, wondering if it's possible to paint aluminum siding without it peeling, especially on the sunny south side of her home. - Anthony in Upstate New York is dealing with a chimney losing its stucco on his 80-year-old house. - Jeremy in Pennsylvania is contending with a leaky finished basement that’s causing moisture problems and a musty smell. - Beverly in Missouri has concerns about painting the cedar posts on her covered patio and whether it will cause them to rot. - Max is working on a decking project and wants to know the best floor joist spacing for installing Trex composite decking. - Carrie reached out by email to ask if she could use leftover indoor floor tile on her porch and sidewalk, and if it’s too slippery for outdoor use. 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’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