The Money Pit Calls & Answers

Find out why Bon Ami is a good product to use if you want to really clean the rough, non-slip surface of the bottom of your tub. It has a slight abrasiveness to it, making it good for this particular application. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get tips on choosing a wood floor finish that is durable and won't show dog nail scratches too much. Find out why a satin or semi-gloss polyurethane is your best bet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FInd out how to give your concrete patio a makeover by putting brick pavers on top. They come in lots of different colors and shapes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out what to do about a baffling fly problem in your home. Get tips on going to the Orkin website and getting advice from an expert. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out why cracks in the grout and tiles on your floor means that the floor was not installed properly. Learn why it is especially important to have the right underlayment for large tiles, which are not as forgiving to work with as smaller tiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out how to restore some shine to an iron fireplace screen that got rusty from flooding. Get tips on using grill paint, which is designed to withstand high temperatures, once you've removed all the rust from the screen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn about the stages of steel pipe replacement in an old house. Find out why you should get a second opinion if your plumber says you need to replace your drainpipes -- typically, it is the supply pipes that need replacing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you have asphalt shingles that were installed in a shoddy fashion, find out why you should strip your roof down to the rafters and re-sheathe the roof before installing metal roofing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out why an open cell insulation like Icynene is a good choice for its ability to seal out drafts and help soundproof a space. On the other hand, closed cell insulation is better for high-moisture environments because it's less susceptible to Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn about tankless water heaters, which heat water as needed, unlike tank water heaters, which keep water hot 24/7. Get tips on direct-venting a tankless water heater in order to have it be located closer to your bathrooms, so you don't have to wait as long for hot water for your shower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out how sealing grout can help keep it clean and water-repellant. Get tips on using a silicone-based grout sealant with an applicator that is comfortable for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out why a bad valve is most likely the culprit if you have a problem with water not coming out of your outdoor faucet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out how to repair an area of your hardwood floor that is swollen from water damage. Get tips on cutting out the swollen part and replacing it with floor boards taken from a nearby closet or pantry. You can then cover the closet or pantry floor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out how to clean rust spots on stainless steel appliances. Get tips on using steel wool or a Brillo pad to remove the rust, then sealing the surface with a stainless steel polish to help keep the rust from coming back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Radiant-heat floors don't have to look different than other standard indoor flooring.  Find out what type of flooring is recommended for floors featuring built-in heat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn how to determine if isolated, fuzzy growth in cool, damp places is mold - and steps for getting rid of it.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vine attachment points can leave marks that are surprisingly difficult to remove.  Find out what's needed to get rid of vine marks left on indoor drywall, as well as tips for eliminating unruly vines altogether.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn the best products and process for protecting and refinishing hardwood floors without undoing their rugged, natural look.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Blood can be especially difficult to lift and remove from upholstery - but there are a few inexpensive, DIY spot removal methods that are likely to do the trick.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Removing ceiling joints and adjusting roof pitch are serious undertakings that can compromise a home's safety.  Find out who to call, and what to consider, when considering a remodel that includes structural modifications.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sealing a deck requires sanding it down to its original lumber - otherwise, sealant will peel off.  Find out additional options for restoring the look of your deck without the constant upkeep.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Find out which cleaning product works best for removing grease and oil buildup from kitchen cabinets and other household surfaces.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding the source of a leaf goes from tricky to trickier when air conditioners and other units provide countless opportunities for water to get inside.  Learn a simple way to deduce the source of a roof leak, as well as advice on what to do once it's Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fireplace soot can be tough to remove from bricks - especially ones that are lighter in color.  Get a tried and true method for restoring brick to its original color and look.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn why plaster loosens in old homes and the best way to repair loose plaster. Get tips on installing drywall over the loose plaster - a less-messy and more practical alternative to tearing it all out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices