The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast

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**The Money Pit Home Improvement Podcast**

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

Latest Episodes:

Most Annoying Neighbors | Limiting Heat in Your Home | Foundation Cracks | Ep #2233 Aug 22, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Problem Neighbors: If you think your neighbors are annoying, you’re not alone! Find out the most common neighbor complaints.
Cooling Your Home: Cooling your home starts with keeping the heat outside. We’ve got tips on how to adjust the temperature.
Foundation Cracks: Cracks in your home are common, but when are they serious? Learn what causes them and when to worry.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Ceiling Cracks: What should Jamie do to fix cracks in the ceiling that keep returning? Tom offers step-by-step advice.
Metal Roofing: Patrick is ready to change his roof but wants to know if metal roofing is worth the cost. There are advantages that can make it worthwhile.
Old Bathtubs: What’s the best way to restore an old bathtub and add a showerhead? Caitlin learns how to get it re-enameled and plumb up the piping.
Preserving a Porch: Ray likes his big wraparound porch but it wasn’t previously maintained. Tom gives him some info on how to preserve it with stain.
HVAC Issues: The air conditioning cools every room in Stephanie’s house except the master bedroom. We have suggestions on how to make the HVAC more efficient.
Well System: What is causing air pockets in David’s well water system? Problems with the pressure tank may be causing his explosive faucets.
Rodents: Chipmunks may be cute, but not when they and other pests are getting into Linda’s steel shed. Here’s how to fill the gaps to keep wildlife out.
Pet Hair: Man’s best friend is constantly shedding and David needs advice on how to keep the floors and carpeting clean. We’ve got suggestions on how to keep the dog hair under control.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Healthy Home Ventilation | Restoring Old Concrete | Painting Your Shed | Ep #2232 Aug 18, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Home Ventilation: Is your energy-efficient so airtight, it’s unhealthy? Proper ventilation will keep the fresh air flowing so you can breathe easier.
Concrete Repair: Trying to repair old concrete by covering it with a new layer doesn’t work. We’ll let you know the best way to resurface worn-out concrete.
Painting Your Shed: Does your backyard shed need sprucing up? Painting your shed is an easy DIY project you can do before storing summer stuff away.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Home Insulation: Carol’s raised house is hot in summer and cold in winter, but adding insulation may be all that’s needed. Tom explains how to keep things comfortable.
Pest Control: When a surplus of spiders sets up camp around the yard, things can get creepy. Tom advises Ben on how to eliminate the nests and control the pests.
Universal Bath Design: Having a bathroom that’s accessible for everyone is important for homeowners of all ages and abilities. We share info with Tracy on designing a bathroom to assist with special needs and where to find recommendations and resources.
Linoleum Flooring: Chad wants to know if it’s worth trying to patch an old and damaged linoleum floor. Find out why flooring replacement may be a better option.
Patio Cover: Annette is ready to finally get the patio cover she’s always wanted, but it may require some modifications to her low-pitch roof. We suggest who to speak with to get the architectural specs she needs.
Pool Decking: Cool deck coating is easier on your bare feet when walking around the pool on a hot day, but Gloria says it can be hard to clean. We let her know what product to look for.
Electrical Upgrade: Is it really necessary to install a new electrical panel to power up appliances in an older home? Jason gets good news about adding the new circuits that he needs.
Water Conditioner: Do you need a water softener or a water conditioner for your home? Howard learns about the right product to treat the lime and scale in his water.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Storage Sheds with Style | Concrete Craft Projects | Removing Ivy from Exterior Walls | Ep #2231 Aug 15, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Storage Sheds: Need a new shed to gain some outside storage? Get ideas to suit your style and budget.
Concrete Crafts: Who knew you could be creative with concrete? We’ve got info about fun and easy craft projects you can create with concrete.
Removing Ivy: Ivy may look lovely, but it can damage your home’s exterior and attract pests. Here’s how to remove ivy and prevent it from taking root again.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Underground Roofs: Replacing the large roof on a unique underground home may be a challenge. Stan finds out which professionals he should speak with to design specs for the job.
Basement Flooring: Should Mary install new carpeting in her basement or are there other flooring products she should use instead? We offer tips on better options for basement flooring.
Garage Door Openers: When Bob’s garage door opener stops working, he wants to know if he should get a surge protector for the circuit board. Tom thinks it’s unusual but trusts the brand he’s considering.
Floor Joists: Does an old kitchen floor need to be reinforced to support the weight of appliances? Tom tells Laura how to prevent sagging floors.
Converting to a Gas Dryer: How hard is it to run a gas line to convert from an electric dryer to a gas model? Abram finds out it’s not difficult but should be done by a professional to avoid dangerous risks.
Home Addition: When is a deck renovation really a home addition? Tom answers Diane’s questions about adding a closet and laundry room off her bedroom.
Cedar Deck: After Tom builds a new cedar deck, we offer steps on how to preserve it.
Shallow Roofs: What materials should you use on a shallow roof? Charlene finds out what she should use to replace the existing asphalt shingles on her roof with a shallow pitch.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Keep Your Yard Beautiful While Conserving Water | Decorative Ceilings | Easy and Affordable Terrazzo Flooring | Ep #2230 Aug 11, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Conserving Water in Your Yard: Can you have a healthy yard while conserving water? Here’s how to keep it growing through dry conditions.
Decorative Ceilings: When adding architectural details to a room, don’t forget to look up! We’ve got tips on creating an eye-catching decorative ceiling.
Terrazzo Flooring: Love traditional Terrazzo flooring but can’t afford the cost? Find out about an affordable alternative that offers the same beautiful look.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Toilet Noises: Why is Kathy’s toilet squealing when she runs her washing machine? Tom has ideas about what’s causing the noisy plumbing.
Concrete Walkway Gaps: Are the spacers in your concrete walkway starting to deteriorate? Here’s what Robert found out about filling the gaps.
Smoke Smells: Did the former homeowners leave behind the stench of smoke? William learns how to clear the air and get rid of smoke smells.
HVAC Odors: When the air conditioning comes on, Jeff’s wife detects strange odors in their house. Cleaning ducts and replacing filters may do the trick.
Refinishing a Patio: Portions of Grace’s beautiful concrete and brick patio are starting to pop up and turn colors. We’ve got tips on restoring her patio and preserving the pattern.
Bathroom Walls: Besides tile, what are some other options for finishing a bathroom wall? Janet may want to consider a bathroom surround.
Chimney Repair: After having her chimneys repaired, Lisa is advised to get them resealed, too. But Tom’s not so sure it’s necessary.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Keeping Comfortable with South-Facing Windows | Composite Materials to Resurface Your Deck | Protecting Yourself During Tick Season | Ep #2229 Aug 08, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Energy-Efficient Windows: South-facing windows feel toasty in winter but can make you swelter in summer. Here’s how to feel comfy all year.
Composite Decking Materials: Your existing deck may be solid but still need resurfacing. We’ve got info about composite decking materials that are easy to install and maintain.
Protection from Ticks: Summer is the peak season for disease-carrying ticks. Find out how to protect yourself before they bite.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Caring for a Wood Swing Set: Do you have a wood playground or swing that’s getting dark and dingey? Tom has info for Erin on how to clean and brighten the surface of her pressure-treated wood.
Installing a Koi Pond: Lee has questions about creating a custom koi pond. We’ve got answers on how to build it and what kind of forms and liners to use.
Covering Ceiling Tiles: What are the options for covering a stained tile ceiling in a three-season porch? Kathleen learns more about how to use the faux tin ceiling she wants.
PEX Piping: Is there a risk of rodents chewing through newly installed PEX piping? Dave finds out how likely it is.
Painting a Deck Ceiling: After power washing the wood ceiling on her deck, Blair wants to know whether it’s better to repaint it with oil or latex paint. Find out which is the better choice.
Moisture in a Laminate Floor: What causes water to seep up through laminate flooring over a concrete slab? We advise Michelle on how to improve drainage and reduce moisture that may damage the floor.
Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets: Bob has sturdy old kitchen cabinets that he wants to strip and refinish. We have tips on what products and tools to use and how to do it.
Heat Pumps: Is a heat pump the best way to reduce humidity in your home? Pat learns some better options and what the ideal indoor humidity should be.
Condensation on Brick Surfaces: When Bruce finds white frost on his home’s bricks, he gets tips on sealing the chimney to prevent moisture and condensation.
Cast Iron Tub Sounds: What’s the loud snapping sound that Sherry hears after using her cast iron tub? Tom calms her fears.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Child-Proofing Your Home | Making Drafty Old Windows More Energy-Efficient | Tips for Upgrading Your Front Door | Ep #2228 Aug 04, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Child-Proofing Your Home: Are you overlooking ways to child-proof your home? Remember these important DIY tips for keeping your kids safe in every room.
Energy-Efficient Windows: If you’ve got drafty old windows, there are ways to make them more energy-efficient without replacing them. Find out the best options for restoring windows in an older home.
Upgrading Your Front Door: Making a good first impression begins with having a great front door. Here’s what to consider when choosing a new front door that will add value and style to your home.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Musty Odors in a Vacant Home: Mary wants to know what could cause musty odors in a vacant home she’s purchasing that is built on a slab foundation. We’ve got ideas on how to clear the air once she moves in.
Installing Flooring Over a Heated Concrete Slab: What kind of flooring should be used in a home with radiant heat? Tom gives some advice to Russ about radiant heat-compliant flooring products.
Cleaning Brick Stains: Removing mortar stains on exterior brick requires careful cleaning. We have suggestions for Gail on how to clean brick surfaces without damaging them.
Home Construction: What should you look out for when buying a home built in the 1960s? Tom talks with Phyllis about the quality of home construction in the ‘60s.
Removing Smoke Odors: Beautiful exposed brick walls inside a home are holding onto the smell of smoke. We let Jeff know what to do when cleaning fails to solve the stinky problem.
Replacing a Hot Water Heater: Eva is concerned about replacing the hot water heater that’s installed on an upper floor in her home. Tom has suggestions on how to affordably replace it with the best type of hot water heater.
Caulking a Bathtub: Is there a trick to recaulking a bathtub? We confirm a great suggestion that Vernon remembers about the best way to apply bathroom caulk.
Concrete Driveway and Pressure-Treated Deck: Bill wants to know if his new concrete driveway needs to be sealed and what to do about the sap coming out of his new pressure-treated wood deck. Tom offers tips on how to care for both.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Drought-Resistant Grass Saves Water and Keeps Your Lawn Green | Granite Countertops for a Fraction of the Cost | Finding an Interior Designer to Create Your Dream Home |Ep #2227 Aug 01, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Tired of watching water and money go down the drain to keep your lawn lush? Find out about drought-resistant grass to make your side of the fence greener.
Love the look but can’t afford the cost of granite countertops? We’ve got info about an amazing product that applies easily and gives outstanding, realistic results on any surface.
Thinking of redecorating your home but don’t know where to begin? It may be time to consult with an interior designer.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Problems with Contractors: What should you do when a contractor does poor work or leaves a job unfinished? Tom offers advice to Oralee about next steps after she loses money on an incompetent brick mason.
Clogged Pipes: After installing a new water heater, Louis still has low water pressure and suspects a broken or blocked pipe. Tom discusses the best replacement for galvanized pipes that tend to clog.
Tree Roots and Foundations: Can pear trees do damage if they’re planted near a home? We ease Lynn’s concerns about her concrete foundation.
Window Mold and Mildew: Condensation in vinyl double-paned windows can cause problems with mold and mildew. Don may need to maintain or replace some windows and reduce the humidity in his home.
Granite Countertops: What are some good options for refinishing an old laminate countertop in Frankie’s kitchen? Check out this amazing DIY product that provides the look and feel of granite.
Bathroom Cleaning Products: Charles wants to know what cleaning product he should use for his bathroom tile and other surfaces.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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Stylish Lighting Updates | Help Plants Thrive with Micro Irrigation | Staying Prepared for Emergencies and Storms | Ep # 2226 Jul 28, 2022

Show notes

SHOW NOTES:

Stylish Lighting Updates: If you want to create a new look in any room, pendant lights are a bright idea! We’ve got tips on installing energy-efficient pendant lighting as an easy DIY design solution.
Best Irrigation for Hot Weather Gardening: Micro Irrigation can help with the big problem of helping plants thrive in hot weather. Here’s what to know about directing water right where you need it most.
How to Prep for a Storm: Are you prepared if unexpected severe weather strikes? Get tips on what to have to keep your home, car, and workplace ready for any emergency.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Removing Carpet Glue: Removing exterior carpet that’s been glued down is a sticky situation. Maria gets advice from Tom about pulling up carpeting on an outside step and refinishing the surface.
Leaky Storm Shelter: Storm shelters are meant to offer protection from the elements. Jack finds out what to do about a shelter roof that’s leaking.
Tile Fireplace: Susan wants to remove tile around her fireplace hearth and paint the bricks. We’ve got info about painting over the tile instead.
Cracked Tile Floor: If floor tiles crack and you can’t find the same kind, should they be repaired or replaced? We offer Dan some suggestions on why tiles crack and how to get creative when replacing them.
Building a Deck Step: Steve wants to add a step to make it easier to enter his cabin from the deck. Tom has advice on how large the step should be.

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Creating a Safe Outdoor Space for Pets | Building a Deck with an Easy DIY Kit | Tips for Deer-Proofing Your Yard | Ep #2225 Jul 25, 2022

Show notes

Show Notes:

Pets enjoy outdoor living, too, and need a safe space to have fun. Here are four suggestions on ways to protect your pets and give you peace of mind while enjoying your yard with your furry friends.
Building a deck is one of the best ways to expand your outdoor living space. This DIY project is made even easier with a great deck kit on the market.
Are hungry deer destroying your garden? We’ve got tips on how to prevent deer from turning your yard into a buffet.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions about:

Kitchen Flooring: It may be better to replace a worn-out kitchen floor that’s past it’s prime instead of trying to restore it. Tom has suggestions about durable new flooring products for Harry in Delaware.
Ceiling Stains: Long after a leak stops, you may still have ugly water stains on your ceiling. Pat gets advice on how to cover up the water damage on her drywall ceiling.
Rotted Wood Under a New Roof: What happens when a new roof is installed over rotted wood? Dave needs info on addressing structural repairs that were neglected when his new roof was installed.
Treating an Outdoor Wood Playset: Erin’s pressure-treated wood playset is turning black and starting to crack. Tom offers details about wood cleaning products and stains to help protect and restore it again.
Flagstone Walkways: Can you install a flagstone walkway on top of a concrete slab? We give Will some tips on how to do it and what to use.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Easy Makeovers for Old Patios | Preventing Mold and Mildew in Bathrooms | How to Store Leftover Paint | Ep #2224 Jul 21, 2022

Show notes

Show Notes:

If your outdoor concrete patio is old, worn, or cracked, there’s an easy way to give it a new look with pavers that can be installed right over the existing surface. We’ll give you the info you need for this DIY project.
Cleaning bathroom mold and mildew is a chore you can avoid with a few easy preventive steps. Find out how to keep mold away with these smart bathroom ventilation tips.
Leftover paint can be great for touchups and new projects, but how can you tell if it’s still good to use? We’ve got tips on how to properly store leftover paint so it will last.

Plus, answers to your home improvement questions.

Painting Vinyl Siding: Is there a good way to paint vinyl siding? David learns what kind of exterior paint to use and how to apply it so he can change the color of his home.
Foggy Glass Doors: Condensation between the panes of an insulated glass door can ruin the view. We’ve got advice for Pam on how to clear things up.
Site-Built vs. Modular Home Construction: Michael wants to know which is the better home building option. We share the pros and cons of both traditional site-built construction and modular homes.
Silencing a Squeaky Door: Squeaky doors can be annoying, especially when oil and new hinges don’t do the trick. Sandy finds out another way to silence a persistent problem with upgraded hinges.
Solar Panel Installation: Rick is looking for advice on installing solar panels on his property instead of on his roof. Tom shares some concerns about the true savings of solar panels and what to be aware of when researching different companies.
Basement Foundation Cracks: Significant cracks in basement walls have Dixie concerned, and for good reason. Tom offers info on when a structural engineer is needed and what to do next.

Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here.

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