Around the House with Eric G®: Upgrade Your Home Like a Pro

Hold on tight — we’re serving up a weekend tease that’s part tech nerd rally, part contractor confessional. I (Eric) and John trade war stories about how AI is creeping into construction estimates and, frankly, making some of the old guesswork look amateur-hour. We dig into how automated estimate tools are changing what homeowners see from contractors, why a slick algorithm can be both a blessing and a headache, and how the speed of tech collides with the human chaos of finding someone you trust with your home. John’s rant about contacting 20 contractors and getting only two bites is equal parts tragic and hilarious; we riff on the absurdity of the “get three bids” rule when half the phone numbers ghost you. We also tease the second-hour goodness: a master-bathroom deep dive where I walk through the top mistakes people make when designing the space they’ll actually live in. Expect practical stuff — like wiring for the future, not just the showroom piece you’re eyeing this month — and tips on making big remodels less of a money pit. We close with the usual ask: subscribe, leave a review, stalk our YouTube channels — you know the drill. If you want home-improvement wisdom dished with a wink and a workable plan, come hang out with us this Saturday. Keep your hammers swinging and your Wi‑Fi strong.

Links referenced in this episode:

• homeadvisor.com
• houzz.com
• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• HomeAdvisor
• Houzz
• YouTube

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.

Alright, here's the midweek chaos I called the Punch List — I'm Eric G., your loudspeaker for home stuff and occasional festival hype. I kick things off by bragging about being the MC for Rock the Locks in Umatilla (Sept 25–27) — three days, 25 bands, camping, and a ridiculous amount of classic rock goodness. If you’re wondering why a home-improvement nerd is moonlighting as a concert MC, it’s because we appreciate good build quality whether it’s a guitar rig or a soffit detail. I promise I’ll be handing out high-fives and remodeling tips between bands. Come say hi; I’ll trade a festival story for your best paint-splatter war scar. Then we roll into the real-deal housing talk — the market's shifted. Inventory is up (1.62 million existing homes), sales have cooled, and mortgage rates are doing their dramatic weekly impression (30-year hovering near the high 6s). Translation: it’s more of a buyer’s playground than a seller’s gold rush right now, but lending is stingy. We talk the nitty-gritty for buyers (opportunities if you can stomach the rates), sellers (you’ll need strategy), and investors (get creative with financing and beware fixes-and-flips — margins are thinner than a quarter-inch shim). I also hit a recall roundup — sketchy AC units, problematic hair-dryer brushes, dodgy fire spray cans, and dual-fuel ranges missing a safety cap — because living in a safe home is the hot trend I can absolutely get behind.

Takeaways:

• I'm stoked — I'm MCing Rock the Locks festival Sept 25–27, a camping-friendly, three-day bash with 25 bands that I absolutely can’t wait to hang at.
• We’re watching inventory climb to the highest levels since November 2019, which is quietly flipping leverage to buyers and making life harder for sellers who expected last-decade dynamics.
• I keep saying borrowing costs are the wild card here: the 30-year average jumped to about 6.76%, and that squeeze on affordability is changing buyer behavior fast.
• If you’re a real estate investor, get creative with financing now — fix-and-flip margins are getting crushed by recent price cuts and interest volatility, so play smart or sit this cycle out.
• I can’t ignore the cold numbers: roughly 59.5% of homes sold below their original list price with a median fifty days on market, which is a pretty blunt signal sellers need to adjust strategies.
• We went deep on safety recalls — from Amana through-wall ACs that risk fire to plug-in hair-dryer brushes risking electrocution and dual-fuel ranges missing gas caps; do me a favor and check cpsc.gov if you own any of these.

Links referenced in this episode:

• cpsc.gov
• aroundtheline.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.

Strap in — we take a smart, slightly snarky tour through what makes a house actually behave like a home instead of a mysterious money-eating box. I sit down with Emily Mottram, an architect and building‑science nerd in the best way, and we pick apart a Maine project that’s equal parts summer cottage and winter puzzle. Picture this: an attached garage with a room above it, a septic tie‑in that had to snake under a plowed driveway, and a boulder that refused to be diplomatic about burial depth. We walk through why driveways actually get colder when you plow them, how snow can be an accidental insulating friend, and why people who only visit seasonally are the secret culprits behind frozen septic systems. You’ll hear practical takeaways — better routing, insulation strategy, and the behavioral fix of using systems often enough to keep anaerobic processes alive — all explained without the usual jargon-arm-wrestling. Then we flip the script in hour two with Brandon Smith from Aura, who makes us rethink what “home security” really covers. He breaks down the gap between insurance-driven checklists and real‑time deterrence, and we talk about the tragic edge cases where slow reactions turn into dangerous outcomes. Expect clear, real-world thinking on response models, what private security officers can and can’t do by state, and why sometimes the first win is making a thief think twice. Oh — and I remind you to subscribe, leave a review, and keep your wi‑fi stronger than your neighbor’s DIY smoke alarm. It’s useful, a little cheeky, and weirdly comforting for anyone who owns something they care about.

Takeaways:

• I sit down with architect Emily Mottram to geek out about building science and practical tweaks that actually make homes more comfortable and durable.
• We unpack a weird Maine septic nightmare — frozen pipes, buried boulders, and seasonal use causing nasty backups you can totally avoid.
• I walk you through real-world garage and driveway pitfalls from insulation missteps to improper sewer routing, with clear fixes and cheeky commentary.
• We reveal the part of home security most owners ignore and chat with Brandon Smith from Aura about smarter deterrence, response, and why cameras alone aren't enough.
• I promise you'll hear concrete strategies for cold climates — how snow insulating effects, driveway cover, and occupant patterns interact to freeze septic systems, plus design choices that prevent first-winter disasters and save you money and headaches.
• Subscribe, leave reviews, and follow our YouTube channels — we’ll keep bringing ridiculous DIY tales, practical tips, and weekend episodes full of useful, kick-ass home advice.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Aura
• YouTube
• Around the House

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.

I got real about security with Brandon Smith from Aura — no fluff, just the gap homeowners keep tripping over. I tell the story about pulling up to my driveway and finding my garage gutted (sunny weekday, tools gone), calling 911 and waiting...and waiting. Brandon and I dug into why cameras and recorded footage aren’t the finish line: in a lot of cities the police won’t prioritize property-only calls or need more verification before they roll. Aura’s neat move is bringing a human deterrent back into the loop — on-demand guard vehicles that roll up, flash some lights, and make the bad actors think twice. It’s not fantasy law enforcement; it’s practical deterrence and documented response so you’ve actually got something to hand to your insurer or the PD if things escalate. We talked logistics — how Aura built an Uber-like dispatch network across guarding companies, why aggregation matters (don’t rely on a single provider), and how integrations with monitoring centers let the tech do the heavy lifting: machine-to-machine dispatch, turn-by-turn directions, gate codes, PPE notes, and full reporting. Brandon shares that average national response sits around 18 minutes and that verified dispatch can even get law enforcement moving when officers see an officer in distress on their end. I loved his honesty: we’re not promising vigilantes, we’re promising a documented, professional deterrent that fills the response gap when the public system can’t. If you’re the kind of homeowner who thinks cameras equal safety, listen up: we’re not saying cameras are useless, just incomplete. With Aura layered on top you get a living response, not just a cold file of footage. It’s earthy, pragmatic security — and yeah, it would have been nice back when my garage looked like a tornado hit a tool store.

Takeaways:

• I realized cameras are great for evidence, but by themselves they usually won't get police to show up fast.
• We learned the one thing homeowners are missing: an on-demand verified guard response layer that actually bridges alerts and arrival.
• I can't stop saying it — Aura aggregates lots of local guarding companies like Uber for security, so someone nearby actually responds instead of one flaky provider.
• We joked that ghosted security vehicles that 'look like cops' are brilliant deterrence; sometimes flashing lights and presence are all you need to scare folks off.
• I found out monitoring centers handle most alarms first, sit on hold, and because around 98% are false positives cities deprioritize them — that's a systemic issue homeowners should know about.
• We talked about useful extras: scheduled drive-bys, officers grabbing packages, and custom instructions/gate codes — little conveniences that make security feel human and actually usable.
• I got nerdy about tech: AI verification helps cut down alerts, but video alone still gets triaged; future tools might include drones or more creative deterrents.
• We finished with a simple call to action: figure out who monitors your alarm, ask your installer about verified dispatch, and demand real response — not just recordings.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aurasos.com
• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Around the House
• Aura
• Deep Sentinel
• Ring
• Amazon
• The Home Depot
• Uber
• Lyft
• ISC West
• Vitamix

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.

Eric here — I sat down with Emily Mottram and we basically went full nerd on how houses actually work (spoiler: physics wins). We nerded out on the four control layers — air, water, vapor and thermal — and why missing one of those is like forgetting the eggs in your cheesecake: the whole thing collapses. Emily walked us through real-life horror and hero stories (a gorgeous remodel that still fell to wildfire, and a Habitat-for-Humanity build that outperformed a multimillion-dollar mansion). We chatted flashing — yes, International Flashing Day is a thing now — and how sloppy tape-ups, flapping housewrap, or a single mis-sequenced step turns a future home into a moldy mess. I ranted a little about seeing $3M homes with no seam tape while the low‑budget builds were actually smarter — because people who care often out-teach money. Between the laughs and soapboxes we unpacked sequencing: who’s in charge on site, why a dedicated air‑sealing person is worth gold, and how retrofit projects demand surgical precision. Emily used great analogies (cheesecake, please) to make clear that code is a recipe, not a magic spell — read both books on the shelf or risk creating a leaky Frankenstein. We also dug into climate realities: wildfire resilience, snow vs. rain strategies, and why passive-house ideas sometimes survive disasters when typical construction fails. It’s practical, slightly indignant, and full of takeaways you can actually use when you’re staring at a wrapping-paper wall on a job site.

Takeaways:

• I keep yelling about control layers — air, water, vapor and thermal — because if you mess up the recipe, the building will tell you (and probably leak).
• We were honestly floored driving by new million‑dollar homes missing flashing and seam tape; I joked that Habitat projects sometimes outbuild the big names, and I meant it.
• I reminded listeners that new exterior insulation and fancy materials are not one‑for‑one swaps — you must rethink attachments, window placement, transitions, and how the WRB works.
• We champion sequencing and a single PM who cares: yes, you might save money now by cutting that role, but I promise you’ll pay in moisture, callbacks, or worse.
• I worry about putting flammable refrigerants all over the house — we prefer factory‑packaged hydronic or water‑based systems where possible, so leaks stay theoretical, not catastrophic.
• We pushed a practical philosophy with the Pretty Good House idea — do the important stuff well, avoid diminishing returns, and don’t fetishize extreme efficiency at all costs.
• I kept nudging homeowners to do the small maintenance things — sweep porches, clear leaves, change ERV filters — and even suggested a QR code in mechanical rooms for easy upkeep reminders.
• We warned builders: product shortages and unfamiliar systems are coming with exterior insulation mandates, so plan orders early, train crews properly, and don’t assume old details will work unchanged.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Mottram & Mains
• Habitat for Humanity
• Tyvek
• ZIP System
• ROCKWOOL
• International Builders' Show

Eric G just got back from a raucous little jaunt to northeast Oregon, and let me tell you, it's all about the vibes up there. Picture this: the stunning Wallowa Lake State Park, where the mountains give you serious postcard envy, and the fishing is... well, let's say it's more about the adventure than the catch. Eric reminisces about childhood trips where he fished with his dad, and despite the low water levels this time around, the nostalgia is thick in the air. We dive into the importance of taking breaks, soaking in nature, and how that recharge can bring clarity to life’s chaos, especially in the whirlwind that is the current real estate market. Spoiler alert: it’s wild out there, and Eric has the scoop on how to navigate these choppy waters. Now, let’s talk real estate, shall we? Eric spills the beans on the current buyer’s market, where prices are dropping faster than a hot potato at a game of musical chairs. Seriously, we’re talking serious cuts—like houses dropping 50k or more. It’s a dream come true for first-time buyers or those looking to snag a deal because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good bargain? Eric sheds light on how builders, like our friends at Lennar, are scrambling to sell homes by sweetening the pot with interest rate buy-downs. The blend of his vacation tales and real estate insights makes for a juicy episode that’s as informative as it is entertaining. And trust me, you don’t want to miss his advice for buyers and sellers navigating this shifting landscape. Wrapping it all up, Eric leaves us with some sage wisdom on maintaining peace of mind in the midst of real estate chaos. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or just enjoy the scenery, there’s something for everyone in this episode. So buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and get ready for a ride through the highs and lows of real estate and the joys of vacationing—Eric style!

Takeaways:

• Eric G shares his nostalgic vacation experience in Northeast Oregon, emphasizing the beauty and charm of Wallowa Lake State Park.
• The podcast touches on the current real estate market trends, highlighting significant price drops for homes across various regions.
• Eric's humorous reflections on the differences between urban and rural living add a light-hearted contrast to serious discussions on real estate.
• Listeners are advised to be cautious in the current buyer's market, as home prices are trending downward, offering potential savings for buyers.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehousehq

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• KWVR
• Lennar Homes
• Stein Distillery
• KXL

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.

Labor Day is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a deep dive into the heart and soul of American craftsmanship? We’re shining the spotlight on two remarkable companies that embody the spirit of our Made in America 250 celebrations: Ardex and Evolve Stone. This episode is packed with insightful conversations that unveil the intricacies behind American-made products, starting with Ardex. Join Eric G. as he chats with William White, who shares the magic behind Ardex's innovative tile installation systems. From the importance of proper substrate preparation to the revolutionary new V1300 underlayment, we discuss how Ardex is not just keeping up with modern demands but leading the charge. William brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, explaining how moisture management has become a pivotal aspect of tile installation, especially with the increasing complexity of materials and designs in homes today. He emphasizes the necessity of training and education for contractors, ensuring they are equipped to handle the evolving landscape of the flooring industry. As we transition into our conversation with Evolve Stone, we shift gears to explore the exciting world of artificial stone technology. Greg and Dom from Evolve Stone join us, revealing how they've transformed the way stone can be used in construction. Their innovative product, which installs directly with finish nails, is not only lightweight but also incredibly realistic, mimicking the aesthetic of natural stone without the hassle of heavy lifting and intricate installation methods. They share the story of how they stumbled upon this revolutionary product and the challenges they faced in bringing it to market. The conversation dives into the environmental benefits of their manufacturing processes and how they maintain quality control by keeping production in the U.S. With discussions ranging from the practical applications of their products to the importance of supporting American manufacturing, this episode serves as a perfect reminder of the skill, innovation, and heart that goes into every American-made product. So grab your headphones, kick back, and let’s celebrate the American worker by exploring the cutting-edge of home improvement with Ardex and Evolve Stone. This is the kind of content that not only informs but also inspires – let’s get into it!

Takeaways:

• Celebrating the American worker is at the heart of our Made in America 250 campaign, showcasing companies that embody this spirit.
• Ardex and Evolve Stone are redefining the construction industry with innovative, high-quality American-made products that meet modern demands.
• The conversation highlighted how essential training is for contractors to keep up with evolving technologies and ensure successful installations.
• Moisture management in installation is crucial; Ardex products are designed to tackle moisture issues effectively and prevent costly callbacks.
• With Evolve Stone, we see a game-changer in artificial stone that not only looks real but installs easily and offers durability against harsh weather.
• This episode reminds us that supporting American-made products contributes to local economies and strengthens the quality of craftsmanship in our homes.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Ardex Americas
• Evolve Stone
• Horizon Builders

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 to kick off your Labor Day weekend with a bang as we dive deep into the world of hardwood flooring! This isn’t just any old flooring chat; we’re talking about the ins and outs of wood species, installation tips, and the unique quirks that come with each type of floor. Ever heard of black walnut? Oh boy, it’s a beauty, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially if you’ve got a sun-drenched living room that could fry an egg! We’ll explore how UV rays can turn your gorgeous floors into a sun-bleached driftwood nightmare faster than you can say ‘oops.’ And don’t even get me started on Brazilian cherry—it’s tough as nails but can pull a major color switcheroo if you’re not careful. So, whether you're prepping for a major reno or just curious about how to keep your floors looking fresh, we’ve got you covered with all the tricks of the trade. Stick around, because this episode is packed with knowledge and a few laughs along the way!

Takeaways:

• This Labor Day weekend special is packed with expert tips on hardwood flooring that you won't want to miss!
• We dive deep into the nuances of wood species and how they can affect your flooring choices and home vibe.
• Did you know that different wood types have different photosensitivity levels? It can totally change how your floors look over time!
• Catch us as we celebrate the American worker with a highlight reel of our top 250 episodes, honoring the hard work behind every project.
• Join us for a fun discussion on tile prep and the magic of faux stone that brings style without the hefty price tag!
• Our show is all about supporting DIY enthusiasts with practical advice and a hefty dose of humor—because who doesn’t need a laugh while hammering away?

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• treadline hardwood
• Ardex
• Evolve stone

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.

Labor Day Weekend is here, and what better way to celebrate than by diving into the world of hardwood flooring with the experts from Treadline Hardwood? In this lively episode, Eric G. invites Titus and Kelly, his neighbors from Portland, to chat about the ins and outs of hardwood flooring. It's a laid-back but informative discussion that tackles everything from the intimidation that homeowners often feel when faced with flooring choices to the nitty-gritty of refinishing. Eric shares his horror stories of DIY disasters, and the pros weigh in on why hiring experts can save you from a floor that looks like it's been through a war zone. They emphasize that the devil is in the details—it's not just about slapping down some wood, but understanding the finishes, the sanding techniques, and the unique characteristics of different wood species. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a newbie, this episode is packed with practical tips and a few laughs along the way as they demystify the process of choosing and maintaining hardwood floors.

Takeaways:

• Hardwood flooring can be intimidating for homeowners, but with expert guidance, it can be a rewarding project.
• The devil's in the details when it comes to sanding hardwood floors; it takes professional skill to avoid disasters.
• Choosing the right finish for hardwood floors is crucial; water-based and oil-based finishes have different durability and looks.
• Old floors with unknown finishes can pose challenges; inspecting and understanding the existing material is vital before refinishing.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehouseonline.com
• hardwood.org
• treadlinehardwood.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Treadwine
• Treadline Hardwood
• Home Depot
• National Wood Flooring Association
• Treadline Construction

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.

With the crisp autumn air beckoning and winter lurking around the corner, it's time to prepare our homes for the chilly months ahead! Eric G. is here to spill the beans on how we can save some serious cash and keep our homes cozy without breaking the bank. Forget about splurging on a brand-new furnace; all you need is a Saturday and a bit of elbow grease! We dive into the world of duct sealing—yes, that’s a thing—and how it can drastically cut down your heating bill by as much as 30%. Imagine saving that extra cash just by sealing up those sneaky ducts hiding in your attic or basement! Eric shares practical tips on what materials to use and how to spot those trouble spots, ensuring your home stays toasty while your wallet stays happy. But that's not all! We also chat about the wonders of thermal imaging cameras—specifically, the nifty little device that clips right onto your phone. It’s like a superpower for your home; you can see where that sneaky heat is escaping or where moisture might be creeping in. Talk about a game changer! Eric walks us through how to use this handy gadget to its full potential, making sure we’re not just saving money but also keeping our homes in tip-top shape. Finally, we wrap up with a gentle reminder to check those air filters. You'd be surprised how many folks neglect this simple task, potentially wasting money and energy. Eric emphasizes the importance of getting the right filter in place and even scheduling that fall HVAC check-up. So, grab your tools and let’s tackle these fixes together this weekend!

Takeaways:

• You can save big bucks this winter just by sealing those pesky ducts around your house.
• A thermal imaging camera is your new best friend for spotting insulation issues without breaking a sweat.
• Checking and replacing your HVAC filters is a simple Saturday task that makes a huge difference in efficiency.
• Weather stripping around doors and windows can make your home feel cozier while saving you a ton on energy bills.
• A little DIY maintenance can lead to savings of hundreds of dollars on heating bills each year, so get your toolbox ready!
• Don't forget to schedule a fall HVAC check-up to ensure everything's running smoothly before the cold hits.

Links referenced in this episode:

• rision.com
• aroundthehousehq.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Rison

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.