Around the House with Eric G® Home Improvement Remodeling & DIY

So, let’s talk about those frozen pipes, shall we? With the massive storm slamming the US and everyone’s pipes turning into ice cubes, it’s the perfect time to dive back into last year's golden nuggets of wisdom from Eric G. He’s got the lowdown on how to deal with those pesky frozen pipes like a pro—or at least avoid turning your home into a water park disaster zone. Seriously, who knew winter could turn our houses into frosty fortresses? From cranking up the heat to the classic “close those crawl space vents” move, Eric's got all the tips to keep your plumbing from pulling a Frozen 2 on you. So, grab your hot cocoa, and let’s revisit how to save your pipes from the grip of winter’s icy fingers! The cold snap sweeping across the US this weekend has everyone scrambling for their thermals and hot cocoa, but what happens when your pipes decide to go on a winter break? Eric G takes us on a nostalgic trip back to last year’s episode where he schooled us on the fine art of thawing out those stubborn frozen pipes. Picture it: you're cozied up with a mug of something warm, when suddenly, you realize your water is about as dry as the Sahara. Should you panic? Nah, just hit play and let Eric steer you through the frostbite fiasco. He breaks down the essentials: from cranking up the heat to keeping that water flowing (yes, we’re talking about letting it drip), Eric’s got all the tips to keep your plumbing from becoming a popsicle. He even throws in a dash of humor while reminding us that our homes were probably not built with snow in mind. Perfect for those who think a frozen pipe is just a fancy term for a new cocktail!

Takeaways:

1. Frozen pipes are a major concern during winter storms, so take precautions now.
2. Keep your house warm to prevent frozen pipes; higher temperatures make a difference.
3. Seal crawl space vents to trap heat and protect your pipes from freezing damage.
4. Disconnect outdoor hoses before a freeze; this is a must-do for homeowners everywhere.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

If you're tired of your basement feeling like a swimming pool or your crawlspace doubling as a water park, then you're in the right place! Eric G and John Dudley are diving deep into how to keep that dampness at bay and tackle leaks, especially if you've got one of those slab-on-grade foundations. We all know that a little water is fine for your garden, but in your home? Not so much. So, whether you're dealing with pesky leaks or just wanting to ensure your home stays bone dry, these two pros have got your back. Get ready for some solid tips, a sprinkle of sarcasm, and maybe a story or two about the absurdity of contractors trying to scare you into shelling out cash for unnecessary fixes. Let’s get into it! Flooded basements and damp crawlspaces can turn your home sweet home into a scene from a horror movie. Eric G and John Dudley dive deep into the murky waters of home maintenance in this episode, tackling the nitty-gritty of keeping those underground spaces dry. They kick things off by sharing their personal horror stories of overpriced contractors who prey on unsuspecting homeowners, quoting astronomical sums to fix what could be simple fixes. If you’ve ever felt like you were about to be robbed while trying to get your leaky basement sorted, you’ll resonate with their tales. They emphasize the importance of understanding the real cause of leaks, from poor drainage systems to improperly placed downspouts, and how a little bit of DIY knowledge can save you a boatload of cash. By the end, you’ll be armed with tips on how to assess your own home’s vulnerabilities, and you might even find yourself chuckling at the absurdity of the whole situation. In addition to tackling the common woes of basement water issues, Eric and John also explore the often-overlooked slab-on-grade foundations. For those in warmer climates where this type of construction is prevalent, the duo goes into detail about how to detect and handle leaks that can occur beneath the concrete. With a mix of humor and practical advice, they guide listeners through steps to identify potential issues before they become full-blown disasters. They offer insights on the latest technologies and methods for leak detection, ensuring that you’ll be well-prepared should you face any plumbing nightmares in your slab home. So whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just diving into the world of home maintenance, this episode is packed with valuable nuggets to keep your house dry and your wallet happy!

Takeaways:

1. Keep your basement and crawlspace water-free by diverting downspouts at least 12 feet away from the foundation, because, let's be honest, water is not your home's best friend.
2. If you discover a leak under a slab on grade foundation, don't panic! Call in a pro with leak detection equipment instead of turning your home into a DIY water park.
3. Fixing a leaky basement isn't just about slapping on some paint—proper waterproofing requires strategic drainage solutions and a little bit of know-how, or you might as well just buy a canoe.
4. When shopping for waterproofing solutions, watch out for contractors who quote you a fortune; often, a simple fix is hiding behind a downspout or a crack you can tackle yourself.
5. In the unfortunate event of a serious foundation crack, implementing carbon fiber repairs can be a game-changer—stronger than steel and less invasive than traditional methods.
6. For those with slab on grade foundations, be aware that plumbing leaks can be sneaky; proactive monitoring and using the right leak detection tools can save you from costly repairs later.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Costco
2. Mattress Warehouse USA
3. Pioneer Masonry
4. Rhino Carbon Fiber

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Ready to dive into the world of wood? Eric G and John Dudley sit down with Chris Seman from N-Hance to spill the beans on how you can refresh your cabinetry and wood floors without the drama of a full remodel. We’re talking serious magic here—think of it as a spa day for your cabinets, minus the cucumber slices and soothing music. Chris shares the lowdown on the Light Speed process, which means your cabinets can look brand new in just a few days and withstand the chaos of family life. Whether you’re dealing with 70s oak nightmares or just want to give your kitchen a facelift, this episode is packed with tips and tricks that keep your wallet happy and your home looking sharp! So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get refinishing! Picture this: you wake up one day, look around your home, and realize that your cabinets and wood floors look like they've been through a war zone. Enter Chris Seman from N-Hance, who joins Eric G and John Dudley on Around the House to talk about the all-too-vital art of wood refinishing. Now, I know what you're thinking: refinishing? Isn’t that just slapping on some paint and calling it a day? Well, let's set the record straight. Chris dives deep into the nitty-gritty of cabinet and floor refinishing, explaining how his company's innovative processes can save homeowners from the nightmare of costly remodels. We get a taste of real-life horror stories—like that time a cleaning lady mistook a magic eraser for a miracle tool and turned pristine cabinets into a sad, sandy mess. The crew chats about the difference between a quick paint job and achieving that coveted factory finish. Spoiler alert: it’s all in the prep work, baby! From using the right materials to employing cutting-edge UV technology, Chris lays out a roadmap to not just cover up the past but to truly rejuvenate your home’s heart and soul. So, if you're stuck in the 90s with your cabinetry, tune in and discover how to bring your space back to life without the chaos of a full remodel. You’ll be ready to host happy hour in your newly revamped kitchen in no time!

Takeaways:

1. Refinishing cabinets can be a cost-effective way to update your kitchen without the whole remodel headache.
2. Using the right prep methods and materials is crucial to achieving a durable and factory-like finish.
3. Don't even think about DIY cabinet refinishing unless you're a pro with the right tools—trust me, it's a nightmare otherwise.
4. Chris from N-Hance shares how their 'lightspeed process' revolutionizes cabinet refinishing with fast curing times and durability.
5. Kitchen cabinets can be transformed with new doors and finishes, making them look brand new without a complete remodel.
6. The importance of choosing the right paint and finish cannot be overstated; bad choices lead to peeling and a sticky mess.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Enhanced
2. N Hance

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Buckle up, because this weekend on the Around the House Show, we're diving deep into the glamorous world of refinishing wood. That's right, we’re talking about making your cabinetry and hardwood floors look less like a craft disaster and more like they belong in a fancy magazine—without all that dust making you feel like you're living in a sawmill. We’ve got N. Hance joining us to spill the secrets on the magical "lightspeed process" that promises fast curing and durability, so your floors won’t just survive the chaos of everyday life, but thrive like they’re on a spa day. And if that’s not enough to keep you on your toes, we’ll also tackle the oh-so-fun topic of water in your basement—because who doesn’t love a good leak under their slab foundation? Trust me, you won’t want to miss our tips for saving some serious cash while tackling those soggy disasters. So grab your favorite beverage and settle in for two hours of home maintenance mayhem—it’s about to get wild!

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Takeaways:

1. This weekend's show is a DIY extravaganza, perfect for those who love home improvement chaos.
2. We dive deep into refinishing wood, ensuring your projects don't end up looking like a toddler's art class gone wrong.
3. Discover the secrets to tackling water issues in your basement without breaking the bank – because who doesn't love saving cash?
4. We’re diving into the absurdity of old clay pipes and why replacing them feels like a rite of passage for homeowners.
5. Tune in for tips on how to avoid catastrophic home repair disasters, because we all know those are just around the corner.
6. Prepare for a wild ride of home maintenance tips, laughter, and maybe some questionable advice – don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Mentioned in this episode:

Around the House 2026 YouTube!

Make sure and Subscribe to our YouTube page!

Around the House YouTube

Around the House Top Products!

Producer Jim shares an insider look at Eric G's hand-curated Top 10 products for 2026. From smart locks and app-controlled garage openers to precision tools and energy-saving water heaters, these are the game-changing items Eric personally recommends to make your home smarter, safer, and more efficient. Head to AroundTheHouseOnline.com/Top-Products to see the full list, click the product links for exclusive Amazon deals, and upgrade your home today!794msFast

Around the House Top Products

Oh boy, grab your hard hat and hold onto your toolbox because Eric G is diving into the wild world of the housing market and remodeling for 2026! Spoiler alert: things are getting real “interesting” out there. Builder confidence is dropping faster than my patience when I can't find my favorite tool, with a recent dip to a not-so-rosy 37 on the index. But fear not, we’re also seeing renovation spending gearing up for a little comeback, so maybe there’s hope for our home improvement dreams yet! Join me as I dissect the chaos of today’s market, the absurdity of house flips that make you question humanity, and what the future might hold as we navigate this ever-turbulent housing landscape. You won’t want to miss this midweek update filled with sarcasm, insights, and a sprinkle of good old-fashioned mockery—because really, who doesn’t need a laugh while discussing home prices? The housing market is like that friend who promises to show up but always bails last minute—totally unreliable and frustratingly unpredictable. This week, Eric G dives deep into the current state of housing and remodeling, predicting what 2026 might look like for all of us poor souls trying to make sense of it. Spoiler alert: it's not all sunshine and rainbows. With builder confidence dropping and sales expectations plummeting, it’s clear that we’re in for a bumpy ride. Just when you thought things couldn’t get worse, 40% of builders are cutting prices like they’re at a clearance sale—except, you know, it’s not a great sign for the overall market. We’re talking average price drops of 6%, which is just sad and tells you everything you need to know about the state of affairs. But wait, there’s a glimmer of hope! Renovation spending is on the rise for 2026, which might just save our collective sanity. It’s like finding a five-dollar bill in your pocket when you thought you were broke. Eric also dishes out some juicy tidbits about the ongoing trade shows in the construction world—where the tools come out to play, and the latest trends do a little dance. From World of Concrete to the International Builder Show, there’s a lot happening, and Eric promises to keep us in the loop, even if it means dragging us through the mud of the current housing crisis. As if that weren't enough, Eric has a brilliant idea brewing—he’s considering a podcast series dedicated to the absolute horror shows that are some of the house flips he’s seen around Portland. Seriously, folks, it’s like a train wreck you can’t look away from. So, strap in and prepare for a wild ride as we navigate the murky waters of the housing market together. Let’s just hope we don’t need to build an ark by 2026!

Takeaways:

1. The housing market is cooling down with builder confidence falling to 37 in January, not exactly a glowing endorsement for future buyers.
2. Almost 40% of builders are cutting prices, and the average price reduction has jumped to 6%, which is just a little alarming if you ask me.
3. If you thought renovations were on the rise, you might be right—spending on home improvements is expected to rise throughout 2026. Yay for us!
4. Mortgage rates are sitting at about 6.06%, which is the lowest we've seen since late 2022, but don't get too excited about the good old days of 3%.
5. Everyone seems to be holding off on major HVAC upgrades because prices are skyrocketing, and who wants to drop a fortune on a heat pump right now?
6. Energy-efficient upgrades, like EV chargers, are losing their charm in 2026 as more homeowners already have them and new buyers are less interested.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Ford
2. Habitat for Humanity
3. Portland Fire and Rescue
4. Portland

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Get ready for some serious drywall drama as Eric G and John Dudley sit down with Ted Speers from The Patch Boys. We're diving right into the nitty-gritty of drywall repair and why finding a trustworthy contractor is like hunting for a unicorn in a haystack. Ted spills the beans on the art and science of drywalling, and how DIY attempts often end in a “what have I done?!” panic. We’ll also explore the unique challenges of dealing with textures, the absurdities of home repairs, and why sometimes it’s better to just call in the pros before your walls start looking like a Picasso painting gone wrong. So grab your headphones and let’s patch things up, because we’re about to make drywalling fun—yes, you heard that right! When it comes to drywall, everyone thinks they can tackle it, right? I mean, how hard can it be? Just slap up some sheets, tape it, mud it, and voilà! Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple. In this jam-packed episode of Around the House, Eric G and John Dudley welcome Ted Speers from The Patch Boys to discuss the ins and outs of drywall repair. We dive deep into the common misconceptions about DIY drywall projects. Ted shares hilarious anecdotes about all the brave souls who attempt to fix their drywall issues only to end up in a mess that even Picasso would be jealous of. You know those folks who watch a couple of YouTube videos and think they're pros? Yeah, they usually end up giving Ted a call when their 'art project' goes horribly wrong. The guys dissect the art versus science of drywall, emphasizing the skill and finesse required to achieve that perfect finish. You might not think it, but matching textures and dealing with the dreaded popcorn ceiling is an art form that takes years to master. So buckle up, grab a snack, and get ready to learn why hiring a professional might just save you from a world of drywall woe. Let’s be real – nobody loves dealing with drywall unless you’re Ted, who practically oozes passion for it. In our latest chat, Ted lays down the law about why you should never trust a handyman who claims to be a drywall expert. Sure, they might know how to fix your leaky sink, but once they get their hands on drywall, it’s a whole different ballgame. The trio explores the importance of hiring qualified professionals for drywall work, especially after plumbing disasters. Ted gives us the lowdown on how many of his jobs stem from botched DIY attempts or haphazard handyman work. With a chuckle, he explains how the majority of his customers are those do-it-yourselfers who thought they could save a few bucks and ended up creating a drywall horror story. We also touch on the critical aspect of customer service in the contracting world. Ted discusses how The Patch Boys prioritize cleanliness and customer experience on every job, ensuring that clients feel valued and respected. Spoiler alert: it's not just about fixing walls; it’s about building relationships. If you think drywall is just about slapping up some boards, think again! This episode takes you on a wild ride through the world of drywall with Ted Speers from The Patch Boys. Eric G and John Dudley get right into it, tackling everything from the absurdities of DIY projects to the fine art of matching textures. Seriously, it’s like trying to get a cat to take a bath – nearly impossible unless you know what you’re doing! Ted shares his insights on the challenges faced by homeowners and the importance of hiring skilled professionals to avoid the pitfalls of DIY disasters. From addressing water leaks to the complexities of texture matching, this episode is a treasure trove of tips and tricks for anyone looking to navigate the often confusing realm of drywall repair. If you’ve ever wondered why your walls look like a 3rd grader’s art project, tune in to discover how professionals bring back the smoothness and finesse your home deserves. Plus, a few laughs along the way as Ted recounts some of the more comedic mishaps he’s encountered in his line of work. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of drywall drama, you’re in for a treat!

Takeaways:

1. Finding reliable drywall help is like searching for a unicorn in a haystack, trust me.
2. YouTube DIY drywall projects often end with a call to the professionals, and we get it.
3. Drywall work is not just a science; it’s an art that most DIYers just don’t get.
4. Matching textures after a repair? Yeah, that’s where the magic (and the headaches) happens.
5. The fun doesn't stop at fixing holes; popcorn ceilings are a nightmare to remove, folks.
6. Believe it or not, half of our jobs involve fixing ceilings, and no, it’s not as easy as it sounds.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com
2. thepatchboys.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Patch Boys

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Ready to dive into the wonderfully chaotic world of water damage? Eric G and John Dudley are joined by William Gordon from 1-800-WaterDamage.com, and trust me, this is a chat every homeowner needs to hear. We’re breaking down the ins and outs of handling water disasters—because let’s face it, no one wants their home to turn into a water park! From the new-fangled tech in water restoration to the mind-boggling insurance policies that could leave you high and dry (ha, see what I did there?), we’re covering it all. Get ready for some sarcastic wisdom and a few horror stories that’ll make you grateful for your dry walls. So, grab your floaties and let’s get this water show on the road! Water damage is one of those delightful surprises that homeowners just love to deal with, right? I mean, who doesn't enjoy coming home to find their living room transformed into a mini swimming pool? In this episode, Eric G and John Dudley sit down with the water damage guru, William Gordon from 1-800-water-damage.com. They dive deep into the murky waters of what to do when disaster strikes, discussing everything from the sudden failure of washing machine hoses to the insidious creep of mold. William, with his 42 years of experience, lays down some serious wisdom about the evolution of water damage restoration technology. Gone are the days of just throwing a fan at a wet carpet and calling it a day; now it’s all about high-tech drying equipment and professional assessments. The hosts and William explore the importance of acting fast—like, really fast—because every second counts in preventing mold growth and escalating repair costs. They also tackle the awkward but necessary conversation about insurance, shedding light on what homeowners should know about their coverage, and how to navigate the claims process without losing their minds (or their homes). Spoiler alert: if you think your insurance will cover everything, you might want to sit down for this one. The conversation shifts gears as the trio reminisces about the absurdities of life as a homeowner. From the ridiculousness of insurance adjusters to the hilarious mishaps that lead to water damage—like a rogue ice maker flooding the kitchen—there's no shortage of humor in the face of chaos. William shares stories that will make you laugh and cringe, reminding us that while water damage is a serious issue, sometimes you just have to roll with the punches and find the humor in it. Listen closely, and you might just pick up a few tips on preventing those ‘oops’ moments that could turn your cozy abode into a waterlogged nightmare. So, grab your floaties and tune in, because this episode is a splash of knowledge you won’t want to miss!

Takeaways:

1. Water damage isn't just a minor inconvenience; it can lead to serious mold problems if not handled immediately.
2. If you think your insurance covers all water damage, think again; read the fine print or risk a hefty bill later.
3. The technology for assessing and restoring water damage has drastically improved over the past few decades, making it easier to handle issues.
4. Ignoring small leaks can lead to catastrophic failures, so stay on top of your home maintenance, folks!
5. Mold is not something you want to mess with; it can exacerbate health issues, so take it seriously!
6. Don't wait days to address water damage; a delayed response can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs later on.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com
2. 1800-waterdamage.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. 1-800-Water Damage
2. Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification
3. Belfor

Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen

If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support

We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/

Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into a two-hour escapade of home improvement shenanigans this weekend on the Around the House Show! First up, we’ve got the one and only William Gordon from 1-800-WATER-DAMAGE, sharing the crucial deets on how to deal with those pesky water disasters—because let’s be real, nobody dreams of their living room becoming an indoor pool. We’re breaking down the do’s and don’ts of water damage like it’s a science project gone rogue, helping you figure out what can be saved before it all turns into a soggy mess. And don’t think we’re stopping there! In the second hour, we’ll be chatting with Ted Speers from The Patch Boys, who’s here to drop some truth bombs about why trusting just any Joe Schmo with a toolbox might land you in a DIY nightmare. So, if you’ve ever pulled off a piece of drywall and thought, “What have I done?”—we’ve got your back! Tune in for some serious laughs, wild tales, and possibly life-saving advice that’ll keep your home from turning into a total disaster zone. Hold on to your hard hats, folks! This weekend's Around the House Show is packed tighter than a can of sardines on a hot summer day. We kick things off with William Gordon from 1-800-Water Damage dot com, and trust me, if your home has ever threatened to become its own water park, you don’t want to miss this. We’re diving deep into the soggy world of water disasters—because who doesn’t want to know the ins and outs of saving their precious belongings from becoming a soggy mess? William breaks down the do's and don'ts of water damage, and spoiler alert: quick action is your best friend. So, if you’ve ever wondered if that water-stained couch is salvageable or if your Christmas decorations in the basement are doomed, tune in! And hey, we’ve even roped in some scientists and insurance folks to dish out the lowdown on what can and can’t be saved. Let’s just say, if you’ve got a geyser situation going on, you might want to brace yourself for some bad news. No one wants their house to become an indoor swimming pool, right?

Takeaways:

1. This weekend, we're diving deep into water damage recovery with William Gordon from 1-800-water-damage.com, trust me, you don't want to miss this chat.
2. Ever wondered how to handle a water disaster? We're breaking it all down because nobody wants their home to morph into a soggy amusement park.
3. In our second hour, Ted Speers from The Patch Boys will explain why hiring the wrong handyman is like inviting a raccoon to your kitchen—chaos guaranteed!
4. Ted dishes out the reasons why pros are worth every penny, especially when you’re stuck fixing those dinner plate-sized drywall disasters.
5. We’ll get into the nitty-gritty of saving your home from water damage, and spoiler alert: acting fast is key, so don’t be a slowpoke!
6. Prepare for some sarcastic banter about DIY fails and why sometimes, calling in the experts is the best decision you can make for your sanity.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. 1-800-water damage.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. 1-800-water damage.com
2. Patch Boys

Mentioned in this episode:

Around the House Top Products!

Producer Jim shares an insider look at Eric G's hand-curated Top 10 products for 2026. From smart locks and app-controlled garage openers to precision tools and energy-saving water heaters, these are the game-changing items Eric personally recommends to make your home smarter, safer, and more efficient. Head to AroundTheHouseOnline.com/Top-Products to see the full list, click the product links for exclusive Amazon deals, and upgrade your home today!794msFast

Around the House Top Products

Around the House 2026 YouTube!

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Around the House YouTube

Project costs spiraling out of control? Yep, we've all been there, and Eric G is here to spill the tea on a major local project that's turned into a financial circus. Spoiler alert: it went from a "reasonable" $6 billion to a jaw-dropping $13.6 billion. Talk about a government-funded rollercoaster ride! As if that wasn’t enough, Eric's got a personal journey to share—he's gearing up for surgery next week to fix that pesky shoulder, which seems to be more drama than a reality TV show. So, tune in for some sarcastic insights on budget debacles and a behind-the-scenes look at Eric's upcoming quest for shoulder redemption. Trust me, you won't want to miss this wild ride! Budgeting for home projects is like trying to play poker with a bunch of bluffers—everyone's got a hand, but no one knows what it’s worth until the cards are on the table. That’s what Eric G dives into in this mid-week episode, where he hilariously recounts the saga of a local bridge project that’s spiraled out of control, ballooning from a modest $6 billion estimate to a jaw-dropping $13.6 billion. It’s a classic case of ‘oops, we forgot to tell you the real numbers,’ leaving us all wondering what kind of cosmic joke we’ve fallen into. Eric's take is equal parts incredulity and sarcasm, as he reflects on how this isn’t just an isolated incident but a rampant trend in the world of construction. Think your home renovation budget is a disaster? Welcome to the club! He connects this all too relatable mess to our personal experiences with home improvement and the shocking reality of hidden costs and unexpected expenses. But it’s not all doom and gloom; Eric also shares some personal updates that’ll make you feel like you’re right there with him—because who doesn’t love a little behind-the-scenes peek at someone else’s life? He’s gearing up for surgery on his shoulder next week, a journey that promises to be as entertaining as it is enlightening. With a blend of humor and reality, Eric talks about his past injuries, the impending rotator cuff repair, and how he plans to document his recovery on social media. He assures us he’s not about to slow down, even if he’ll be sporting a sling for a while. Eric's transparency about his health journey is refreshing, and it adds a layer of relatability that makes the episode feel like a chat with a friend rather than just another podcast. As the episode wraps up, he leaves us with some sage advice: when life gets rough, it’s okay to take a step back and tune out the chaos. Whether it’s skyrocketing project costs or personal challenges, he reminds us to keep our heads up and find humor in the absurdities of life. So grab a coffee, kick back, and enjoy this episode that’s packed with insights, laughs, and that signature Eric G charm.

Takeaways:

1. Eric G dives into the wild world of project costs, where budgets go to die, reminding us all how our kitchen remodels can turn into financial black holes.
2. In a jaw-dropping twist, a local bridge project goes from $6 billion to a staggering $13.6 billion, proving that government transparency is about as reliable as a paper umbrella in a storm.
3. Watch out, folks! Eric's gearing up for shoulder surgery next week, and he's not exactly thrilled about being in a sling for six weeks. Spoiler alert: it won’t be a walk in the park!
4. Eric's health journey takes center stage as he shares his surgery plans and the absurdities of navigating the medical system, all while trying to stay upbeat and positive.
5. With a history of injuries, Eric humorously reflects on how moving furniture can lead to unexpected trips to the operating room, because who doesn't love a good 'how did I injure myself this time' story?
6. Tune in to hear about Eric's plans for recovery, including becoming a design guru while sidelined, and how he’s not letting a little surgery keep him from his love for home projects.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com
2. aroundthehouseproinsiderpodcast
3. youtube.com/@aroundthehousewithericg

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Eric G.
2. around the House
3. Money Pit
4. Kitchen and Bath Industry show

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Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Winter is upon us, and if you think you can just sit back and sip hot cocoa while the snow piles up outside, think again! Eric G and John Dudley dive headfirst into the chaotic world of winter home prep in this episode. They kick things off with some cheeky humor, reminiscing about last year’s ‘hot dumpster fire’ of a winter. Seriously, if you thought 2025 was rough, just wait until you hear their plans for tackling the rest of this winter! From cleaning gutters that are probably full of leaves and pine needles (oops) to ensuring your downspouts are actually doing their job and not just creating a lovely waterfall effect next to your foundation, they've got you covered. And let's not forget about the importance of checking your roof and chimney because, let's face it, nobody wants to deal with a leaky roof when it's freezing outside. They remind us all to prioritize safety and get those gutters cleared out—before that kindling turns into a bonfire courtesy of your neighbor's ill-timed fireworks. As the banter continues, Eric and John touch on the importance of insulating pipes and keeping your home warm enough to avoid those pesky freeze-ups. They drop some knowledge bombs about how letting your faucets drip can save you a lot of headache (and money) down the line. You’ll learn how to prep your home for unexpected weather patterns because, let’s face it, Mother Nature is a bit unpredictable these days. If you think you're safe just because you live in a warmer climate, think again! They share tips for everyone, whether you’re in the balmy south or the frigid north—seriously, nobody is safe from winter's wrath! Finally, they wrap up this informative hour with some laughter and relatable stories, emphasizing that a little prep can save you a ton of grief later. So grab a cup of joe, sit back, and gear up for a winter full of projects that’ll have your home ready to tackle anything the season throws your way. Seriously, you don’t want to miss these tips; they could end up saving you a ton of cash and a whole lot of stress!

Takeaways:

1. Winter home prep is essential; tackling simple projects can save you big bucks later on.
2. Maintaining your gutters is crucial; don't let them become a fire hazard with debris buildup.
3. Check your roof and chimney regularly to avoid winter leaks and costly repairs when spring arrives.
4. Insulate your pipes and keep them warm to prevent those dreaded frozen pipe disasters this winter.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. aroundthehouseonline.com
2. youtube.com