Episodes

  • #2501 - Build a Neighbor-Friendly Fence | Craftsman House Renovation | Money-Saving Laundry Tips

    #2501 - Build a Neighbor-Friendly Fence | Craftsman House Renovation | Money-Saving Laundry Tips
    Mar 17 2025
    SHOW NOTES: Today, we’re talking about how to avoid fence fiascos, home renovation updates from the host of Renee Renovates, and easy ways to slash your laundry costs. Plus, we’ve got expert answers to questions from DIY callers, so tune in for more improvement advice! - Fences: Get advice on building a fence that’s stylish, sturdy, and neighbor-friendly. - Home Renovation: The host of Renee Renovates shares info about her Craftsman house renovation. - Laundry: Spin and save with simple laundry hacks to cut costs. Q & A: - Insulation: What do you call a 12-sided house and how do you insulate it? We think that spray foam insulation would be Lloyd’s best option that needs no ventilation. - HVAC: Converting a three-unit building from oil heat to electric baseboard heat would cost Amber a fortune! We suggest separating the zones for each unit instead. - Adding Bathroom: Phillip wants to install a half bathroom in the basement. He can either install a lift pump to run the plumbing through the ceiling or jackhammer through the cement floor. - Kitchen Function: Steam from the coffee maker is fading the finish on the upper cabinets. Without extra counter space, Susan will just have to pull the appliance forward while using 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
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    41 mins
  • #2500 - Pros and Cons of a DIY Deck Project| How Roof Snow Guards Work | Vent Fan Efficiency

    #2500 - Pros and Cons of a DIY Deck Project| How Roof Snow Guards Work | Vent Fan Efficiency
    Mar 13 2025
    SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we discuss whether you should build your own deck or call in the pros. Then, find out how snow guards can prevent dangerous rooftop avalanches. Finally, we break down why vent fans are essential for keeping your home fresh, dry, and mold-free. Plus, get answers to more home improvement questions! - Building a Deck: To build or not to build? Find out the pros and cons of a DIY deck project. - Snow Guards: Avoid slippery slopes with snow guards to keep dangerous snow and ice from sliding off your roof. - Vent Fans: Don’t overlook the importance of efficient vent fans to keep your home healthy, clean, fresh, and dry. Q & A: - HVAC: What is Dave’s best choice to replace his old geothermal HVAC system? We recommend buying the most efficient heat pump system he can afford. - Radon: Should Sandra get a radon test for her home? We explain why it’s a good idea and how radon testing and remediation are done. - Bathroom Tiling: John asks if he should use green board or cement board for bathroom tile. Green board resists moisture but is not as durable as cement board. - Electrical: Judy is nervous about the old knob and tube wiring in her home. She needs to disable and replace it as soon as possible because it’s not safe. - Air Conditioning: Can a refrigerant additive really improve air conditioning efficiency? We doubt it would make a difference and advise Robert to just keep his system maintained until it needs to be replaced. - Windows: We have a discussion with Robert about how to replace the windows in an old pole barn without having to remove the frames. - Carpet Wax: Sandy learns an easy hack for removing wax that was spilled on the carpet. 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
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    41 mins
  • #2499 - More Money Pit Memories and Tom Kraeutler Tributes from Home Improvement Colleagues and Calls

    #2499 - More Money Pit Memories and Tom Kraeutler Tributes from Home Improvement Colleagues and Calls
    Mar 10 2025
    SHOW NOTES: Today, we share more memories of Money Pit’s Tom Kraeutler, plus answers to callers’ favorite home improvement questions. - Tom Kraeutler Tributes: Home improvement friends and colleagues share Money Pit memories and Tom Kraeutler tributes. - DIY Questions: Listen as we share Tom’s expert advice to callers about some favorite home improvement questions. Q & A: - Noisy Pipes: Plumbing noises shake the house and faucets spit when Jason fills the tub! It could be excessively high water pressure, but he should start by checking for bad washers. - Bath Remodel: Christine needs ideas for a window above the tub. We suggest options for windows that are designed for bathroom privacy but still let in the light. - Patio Addition: Michael’s got lots of issues with an old sunroom that was improperly built properly over a patio. He’ll need to rebuild it with proper footings. - Drafts: What is the best way to stop window and floor drafts? Anne needs new weatherstripping and caulk on the windows and insulation around the floor joists. - HVAC: The bedroom adjoining the garage gets very warm. Jeff gets tips for installing a smart thermostat with sensors to adjust the temperature in different rooms. - Plumbing: Linda is worried about a cast iron sewer pipe that’s corroded and cracked. It can be sealed with silicone caulk rather than being replaced. - Roofing: What type of insulation should be used for a flat metal roof? Mark should discuss the options with an experienced roofing contractor. 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
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    42 mins
  • #2498 - Remembering the Legacy of Tom Kraeutler and Home Improvement Questions He Loved to Answer

    #2498 - Remembering the Legacy of Tom Kraeutler and Home Improvement Questions He Loved to Answer
    Mar 6 2025
    SHOW NOTES: In today's show, we share special tributes and calls to remember the personal and professional legacy of Tom Kraeutler, including some of his answers to favorite home improvement questions. - Remembering Tom Kraeutler: Money Pit Co-Host Leslie Segrete speaks with some of our colleagues and partners to honor the special legacy of Tom Kraeutler. - Favorite Calls: Listen as we share Tom’s expert advice to callers about some favorite home improvement questions. Q & A: GFCI Outlets: Pat is concerned about not having GFCI outlets on the kitchen counter. We explain how they work and why they’re important in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Deck Stain: Jeanie doesn’t want to reapply deck stain every year. We recommend prepping the surface well and using an oil-based solid color stain that will last longer. Flooring: Moisture is coming up from the concrete slab under the carpet and linoleum. Russell gets tips for improving the outside drainage and installing new vinyl flooring. Refinishing Furniture: What’s the best way to refinish oak furniture? It’s a lot of work and Ruth may want to consider having a professional strip off the stain and refinish the wood surface. Electrical: Phillip has questions about installing smart switches in his home. We have recommendations for a line of smart home controls by Lutron products. 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
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    43 mins
  • #2497 - Spin Cycle Savvy: Designing a Laundry Room | Bedroom Suite Remodels | Winter Storm Damage

    #2497 - Spin Cycle Savvy: Designing a Laundry Room | Bedroom Suite Remodels | Winter Storm Damage
    Mar 3 2025
    SHOW NOTES: In this show, learn how to plan a well-designed laundry room remodel, get tips for turning your bedroom into a luxury suite, and check for hidden winter storm damage that could cost you big later. Whether you're fixing up now or gathering ideas for the future, we’ve got you covered with answers to all your home improvement questions! - Laundry Room: Get spin-cycle savvy with tips for designing an organized laundry room. - Bedroom Design: We’ve got suite ideas for remodeling your bedroom to add value and luxury. - Storm Damage: The impact of winter storms isn’t always obvious, but here’s where to look for visible and hidden damage. Q & A: - Ventilation: When should Lisa run her bathroom vent fan? We recommend installing a humidistat timer, but she should consult an HVAC technician to check her home’s air exchange. - Moisture: The cement base of Tom’s screened-in porch gets a layer of water, but no leak. He must manage the exterior moisture that’s being drawn up through the concrete. - Heated Tile Floor: June loves heated flooring, but the ceramic tile has cracks. We recommend a very effective system with a membrane that goes under the floor. - Insulation: What is the difference between closed cell and open cell spray foam insulation? John learns the pros and cons of each and how to use them. - Fireplace Noise: Whistling and howling noises are coming from the gas fireplace. Sharon should check if the roof venting was properly installed. - Electrical Switch: A three-way light circuit has stopped working. It could be a failure at any point, not in the fixture itself, and Russ should hire an electrician. - Countertops: Iris is considering upgrading her kitchen countertops. We agree that quartz is a good choice for its looks, durability, stain resistance, and easier care. - Wall Insulation: Brad learns why he can’t go wrong by installing insulation on the back of a knee wall in the upstairs bedroom. - Deck Stain: Paula wants to stain and seal a pine wood deck to match her house trim. An all-in-one solid color stain will give her lots of choices. 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
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    41 mins
  • #2496 - Bright Ideas for Effective Lightscaping | 3 Ways to Improve Countertops | Homeowner Insurance

    #2496 - Bright Ideas for Effective Lightscaping | 3 Ways to Improve Countertops | Homeowner Insurance
    Feb 27 2025
    SHOW NOTES: Today, learn how to enhance your landscape with the right lighting, get three game-changing tips to make your kitchen counters more functional, and find out what to check in your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you're fully protected. Whether you're fixing up or starting fresh, we’re here to help, so listen for answers to more DIY questions! - Outdoor Lighting: Get bright ideas for effective lightscaping that offers safety, security, and style. - Kitchen Countertops: Work smarter, not harder, with 3 ways to improve your kitchen countertop space. - Homeowners Insurance: Does your homeowners insurance provide enough coverage when disaster strikes? Q & A: - Dehumidifying: What is the best way to reduce humidity in a crawlspace? Randy gets tips for adding vapor barriers, installing an exhaust fan, and improving outside drainage. - Flooring: Zelda needs suggestions for flooring in a bathroom and small hallway. We suggest installing a bamboo floor that’s good for moist areas. - Water Heater: Jacob is having trouble regulating the water temperature. He should make sure the water heater is set to about 110 degrees and install a pressure balance value to regulate the shower temperature. - Drafty Windows: Joyce is freezing from drafts blowing through her apartment windows. We explain how to use shrink film and temporary weatherstripping caulk to seal the seams. - Front Door: The original solid wood door won’t stay aligned in Dale’s old house. He should remove all the trim and rehang the door, resecuring it inside the framing. - Dishwasher: The bottom of the dishwasher fills with water after it’s done running. Mary needs to check for an obstruction in the plumbing line. - House Odors: There’s an odd smoky odor coming from the kitchen and bathroom drains. Barbara gets tips on using a bleach solution to scrub away smelly bio-gases. - Radon: Is there any way to mitigate radon without installing an expensive system? Adam finds it’s not a DIY project and the reasons why radon levels may vary. 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
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    41 mins
  • #2495 - Power Outage Prep | Home Repair Facts vs. Fiction | Caulking with Confidence

    #2495 - Power Outage Prep | Home Repair Facts vs. Fiction | Caulking with Confidence
    Feb 24 2025
    SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we share a foolproof plan to keep your home running smoothly during power outages, bust some of the biggest home improvement myths, and offer tips to avoid caulk that cracks and peels. Got a home project on your mind? Listen in for expert DIY advice! - Power Outage: Batteries, backups, and beyond: how to prep for power outages. - Home Repair Myths: Get your DIY projects done right by knowing home improvement facts vs. fiction. - Caulk: These smooth and seamless strategies make it easy to caulk with confidence. Q & A: - Wall Cracks: Leslie’s wall started cracking after the home next door was torn down. She gets tips for checking the outside area and repairing any inside drywall cracks. - Water Heater: Ken has a big water heater in a small space, but an electric tankless water heater would not be efficient. We recommend a heat pump water heater instead. - Roofing: Can Catherine install new roofing on top of the old barn board? That would be fine if the sheathing is solid and with the proper underlayment. - Gutters: Eric finds out that he does need to install gutters, regardless of whether his home has a basement or sits on a concrete slab. - Door Repair: What type of saw blade should be used to cut down a door? Carol gets instructions on the right way to cut a wood door to avoid chipping. - Crawlspace Vent: Is it okay to close the crawlspace vents? Chris finds out why it’s a bad idea and when to keep the vents open to help moisture evaporate. - Pet-Proof Flooring: Bruce needs ferret-friendly flooring after his pets damaged the carpet. Engineered vinyl plank is affordable, attractive, waterproof, and durable. 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
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    41 mins
  • #2494 - Frosty and Functional: Maximize Your Freezer Space | DIY Garage Workshop | Radiator Fixes

    #2494 - Frosty and Functional: Maximize Your Freezer Space | DIY Garage Workshop | Radiator Fixes
    Feb 20 2025
    SHOW NOTES: In today’s show, learn how to set up a functional DIY garage workspace, organize your freezer for easy access, and troubleshoot noisy or cold steam and hot water radiators. Plus, we’re taking your calls to answer more home improvement questions, so listen in for DIY advice! - Freezer Organization: Keep food storage frosty and functional by maximizing your freezer space. - Garage Workshop: Transform your garage into the ultimate DIY workshop. - Radiators: Easy radiator repair tips to stop leaks, noises, and heat loss. Q & A: - Drain: Patricia needs to clear a garage drain that’s filled with bugs and debris. The drain is blocked by a grid, but she can snake through the pipe from the side yard. - Cement Patio: The paint is flaking off the patio and the concrete is pitted. Charlie gets tips for scraping, refinishing, and painting the concrete surface. - Ceiling: Water damage on the ceiling revealed unusual cement underneath. Maria learns about rock lath construction and how to plaster over the ceiling. - Door Drafts: Should Anthony replace his drafty sliding glass door with a French door? We suggest installing a better sliding door instead and adding drapes or shades to block the chill on the glass. - Countertops: Diane wants information about resurfacing her old Formica countertops. We share details on the benefits of using Daich Coatings for a quality, customized look. - Structural: The main beam in Jason’s house is sagging. This is a major concern and he needs a structural engineer to determine how to stabilize the building. 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
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    41 mins