SHOW NOTES:

Today’s show is all about making the most of your home's spaces! First, we'll discuss choosing durable, low-maintenance kitchen countertops. Then, we'll explore making use of the area under your second-story deck with under-deck drainage systems. And if your asphalt driveway is worn out, we have expert replacement tips. Save time, money, and effort with answers to these and other home improvement questions!

- Countertops: Busy kitchens require the most durable countertop materials that are easy to maintain.

- Underdeck Space: Make the most of unused living space under your second-story deck.

- Driveway Repair: Get tips on replacing an asphalt driveway that’s showing wear and tear.

Q & A:

- Deck Stain: Pauline’s stained deck is already looking worn again. She should apply an oil-based primer and a solid deck stain with more pigmentation that will last longer.

- Garage Door: There’s dry rot around the garage door’s wood header. Dave needs to build a temporary wall to hold up the roof while replacing the header.

- Skylight: Will installing a skylight interfere with viewing the TV screen clearly? Ginny’s tubular fixtures will point light downward, so it shouldn’t be an issue.

- Driveway Repair: Scott’s old aggregate stone driveway is starting to crumble. It would be hard to repair that rough surface and we suggest replacing the driveway instead.

- Patio Furniture: Lucy needs to clean the patio furniture that was left outside. She gets tips on the best way to clean different surfaces and materials.

- Windows: Edwin is renovating his 1875 post and beam house and needs advice on keeping the aesthetics of the old windows with energy-efficient replacement windows.

- Ridge Vents: Are ridge vents really necessary? Mary doesn’t like them, but learns they’re doing what’s needed to provide ventilation and prevent moisture in the attic.

- Water Heater: Mary can’t replace the electric water heater with a tankless model, but she can switch to an electric heat pump water heater instead.

- French Doors: Is there a way to seal the bottom of French doors to keep rainwater out? David should concentrate on solving his drainage problems to divert water away.

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.

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