SHOW NOTES:

In today’s show, we'll uncover how to find and eliminate hidden germs in your home. Then, learn about a home improvement company dedicated to finding permanent homes for children in foster care. And if your landscaping is giving you a headache, we've got tips on choosing hassle-free shrubs. We’re here to help with all your DIY projects, so listen in for more answers to your home improvement questions!

- House Cleaning: Keep your home healthy and clean by finding germs that are hiding in plain sight.

- Easy-Care Shrubs: Sprucing up your outdoor space is easy with low-maintenance shrubs.

Q & A:

- Deck Stain: Pauline wants advice on how to preserve the surface of her covered deck. She should apply an oil-based primer first, then use a latex solid color stain to make it last.

- Structural: The wood header above Dave’s garage door is rotted. He needs to build a temporary wall to support the rafters while replacing the header.

- Bathroom: Diane’s vent fan is not removing the steam from the bathroom. She or her landlord has to make sure that the exhaust is going outside her apartment.

- Siding: Wind blew pieces of siding off the house, and other areas are disconnected. Pete gets tips on using a zip tool to reattach any loose siding and still allow movement

- Roofing: Melting ice leaked into the sliding glass door tracks, and Norma was told she needs a new roof. She can file an insurance claim for any damage caused by ice dams.

- Crawlspace: Peter says the dehumidifier in his crawlspace is always running. We have advice for checking the exterior grading, gutters, and downspouts to reduce moisture around the house.

- Flooring: Part of Heather’s hardwood floor was damaged by spilled water. She can take a section of matching floor from a hidden area and use it to replace that spot.

- New Deck: When should Tony stain the new deck he had built? He should wait for the first year, then use a good quality clear finish if he wants to see the wood grain.

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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