Home Repair Tutor

Is your bathroom steaming up? Today we talk about our humidity sensor tutorial which is being featured over on Popular Mechanics website.   Humidity sensors are easy to install and automatically turn your bathroom fan and off. If you check out this tutorial you’ll get step-by-step instructions from my buddy Bill White who is an electrician.   See the tutorial here   http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/how-to-plans/how-to/a18412/how-to-install-a-humidity-sensor/   One of our fans Pam Levario wants to replace her toilet. So I decided to talk about this today and give you some awesome tips.   Plus we discuss mistakes to avoid when choosing toilets.   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 196 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the

Are you a techie? I need your help today…what’s the best router for a house that has multiple computers, smartphones, a home automation system, and Nest Thermostat?   Send your answer to jeff@homerepairtutor.com This is a question I’d love to answer on the show because I bet other people are having the same problem.   Also, today we answer the vapor barrier question that Ryan had. He’s installing cement board and applying RedGard to it. As usual, Custom Building Products got me an answer and we discuss that in today’s show.   PLUS: we discuss the best way to use home automation if you’re a busy person.   Personally I love SmartThings and the Nest Thermostat. The Nest allows me to adjust the temperature of our home while we’re away. SmartThings allows me to monitor our home from my phone. I get into all the details today.   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and

Should you buy a high efficiency furnace? Or save the money and install one that’s less efficient? Today we dive into furnace options and tips that might help you when purchasing one.   One of my fans is installing a new tub surround using cement board. He’s using RedGard to waterproof it and wants to know if he should use a vapor barrier behind it.   We talk about his options and what I don’t like about cement board…which is very frustrating.   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 195 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email   jeff@homerepairtutor.com   We record the podcast every day, so I’m up for sharing your great idea

Closet flanges are super important…they prevent your toilet bowl from leaking. Today we talk about the options you have, an interesting predicament, and a little waterproofing experiment I’m doing.   Drywall sometimes gets wet and ruined if it’s next to the tub or shower. What can you do?   I’m conducting a little experiment with KERDI-BAND to waterproof the drywall. I also consulted Schluter, the maker of KERDI-BAND, to get their feedback on this project. So I’ll be sharing the results with you.   One of our fans has a predicament: he needs a corner toilet with a 14 inch rough-in.   If you have a solution please send me an email at jeff@homerepairtutor.com   There are several types of closet flanges. I personally like PVC or ABS closet flanges because they don’t rust out.   Check out Oatey to see all the different types of closet flanges http://www.oatey.com/   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   If you liked t

Can you use concrete in the winter? Today we discuss the temperature parameters and little known facts.   For example, the data sheet for Quikrete’s concrete mix has specific recommendations. We talk about this in detail.   Interestingly enough, there isn’t a temperature restriction on mortar…at least for Quikrete.   I announced several new members of the Home Repair Tutor private Facebook group.   Membership is free and you can join here https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrtcommunity/   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   Check out our tutorial on how to install insulation…it’s pretty good http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-insulate-walls-and-ceilings/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 191 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a qui

Roof leaks can be BAD…real bad. Today we talk about temporary and permanent fixes.   But first we talk about a phenomenal DeWALT deal over on Home Depot.   Check it out for yourself over on their site.   You get 20V Max 1/2 Drill Driver, 1/4 Impact Driver, and Mechanic’s Set for $199.   The Model Number for this is DCK240CDWMT75000   If you have a roof leak under the vent stack it’s like the rubber boot.   You can permanently fix this with a new boot or temporarily fix it using Henry sealant.   Listen to the show for the details.   Many thanks to Johns Manville for sponsoring today’s show. Check out their complete line of insulation over at http://www.jm.com/en/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 192 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email   jeff@homerepairtutor.com   We record the podcast every day, so I’m up for sharin

Bathroom remodeling can be a pain…it’s nice to have a support group. Today we talk about finding pipes in walls and the tub lip problem.   Pipes in walls can be re-routed using standard soldered fittings or SharkBite fittings. If you have access to the pipes via an access panel I would recommend using SharkBites. Check them out here http://www.sharkbite.com/   But if the pipes will be hidden in the wall I do recommend soldering instead of SharkBites.   I got a second question from Lynda about what to do with the tub lip…should she put building panels over the lip or rest them on the lip?   My recommendation is to put panels on top of the lip.   Listen to the show to hear why.   Here are links to Schluter and Wedi…Schluter makes KERDI-BOARD.   http://www.schluter.com/   http://us.wedi.de/index.php   For more information on bathroom remodeling check out our support group at Bathroom Repair Tutor   https://bathroomrepairtutor.com/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank yo

Holiday lighting is cool. Today we talk about tips to make it easy and safe to install…I had fun doing this with my wife and wanted to share the experience with you.   My number one tip for you is to make sure your exterior outlets are GFCIs. If you need to replace your exterior outlet this tutorial will help http://www.homerepairtutor.com/outdoor-gfci-electrical-outlet-installation/   Here’s the other tutorial I talked about that helps you with landscape lighting and power packs http://www.homerepairtutor.com/installing-outdoor-landscape-lighting/   If you’d like to join a support group for homeowners you’ll love our private Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrtcommunity/   f you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 190 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email   jeff@homerepairtutor.com   We record the podcast every day, so

Garbage disposals get stinky fast…today you’ll learn about 4 easy and natural cleaning tips.   I made a tutorial over on Home Repair Tutor http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-clean-a-garbage-disposal/   Plus: since this show is technically on Black Friday we talk about 2 deals.   The first one is on the Nest Learning Thermostat plus a $50 Amazon gift certificate Here’s the link to that (this is an affiliate link) http://amzn.to/1lNPqLJ   SmartThings has a deal as well, they’re making their Home Monitoring Kit $50 off thru 11/30 Here’s the link to their site http://www.smartthings.com/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 189 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email   jeff@homerepairtutor.com   We record the podcast every day, so I’m up for sharing your great idea

Does your tile and grout need help? Today I share 3 different cleaning tips that could make a HUGE difference. You’ll have to listen to the show to get the details.   Here are the links I mention   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/clean-ceramic-tile-and-grout/   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/the-best-way-to-clean-grout/   We also discuss how home automation can help you keep tabs on your home during the holidays.   My latest tutorial over on Home Repair Tutor shows how I use it as a home security system… BEST PART: no monthly fees.   Check out that tutorial   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/the-best-home-automations-system/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 188 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email   jeff@homerepairtutor.com   We record the podcast every day, so I’m up for sharing your great idea  

Stinky sink drains are a drag…and disgusting. Today we talk about how to tackle this problem and remove the smell.   The first step is to make sure your P-traps are full of water. If your tub, shower, or vanity haven’t been used in awhile…run water for 1-2 minutes. This might solve your problem.   The second reason your bathroom or kitchen may stink is due to biofilm. Unfortunately you have to remove the P-Trap and pipes from the vanity. Check for gunk in the pipes. Scrape any sediment from the wall pipe. Then push several paper towels down the sink drain and related pipes. The last step is to soak these sink parts in warm water and bleach.   Finally, put all the pipes back together and check for leaks. Then pour a pot of hot water down the drain. This will put the death nail in your stinky drain.   See these tips in action over on Home Repair Tutor   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-clean-a-stinky-sink-drain   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember,

Cantaloupe light? Yes, I found a pendant light made in the shape of a cantaloupe. You can make this yourself by watching HomeMade-Modern’s cool YouTube video https://youtu.be/_c4rVAh3t9I   Today’s Deal of the Day is on fire pits and patio heaters. They have fancy heaters that you typically see at restaurants. The model number of the one I like is 67515BOND Type this model number into the search box over on Home Depot’s site   This Old House shared 5 Quick Fixes you can do yourself before Thanksgiving I share all of them in the show but here’s the link to their post http://trib.al/Hvqbkps    If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you Remember, we have 186 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher. If you want me to feature a cool Deal of the Day or project send me a quick email jeff@homerepairtutor.com We record the podcast every day, so I’m up for sharing your great idea

Milwaukee is having a FANTASTIC tool deal!!! Their 9-piece 18V kit is 40% off…more on that in the show. 2695-29 is the model number over on Home Depot.   PLUS: we discuss how to make straight cuts every time with a door board. Nick Ferry is a YouTuber and woodworker who shared this great project. Use 2 pieces of 1/4 plywood or MDF to make a cutting board that can be partnered with a circular saw. Here’s Nick’s project over on YouTube https://youtu.be/5E1v-qPQJvs     Finally, if you need repair parts for your appliance I recommend you check out RepairClinic.com I bought replacement dishwasher arms on their site and have been pleased with their prices. Here’s the link to their site http://www.repairclinic.com/   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you Remember, we have 185 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Hanging a pre-hung door can suck.  A $5.25 product can make it so much EASIER. My buddy Adam Verheyen used the Quick Door Hanger brackets to install pre-hung doors. I think these look awesome and wanted to share Adam’s tip with you today. You can find the Quick Door Hangers (Model 201) over on Home Depot’s site.   Today’s Deal of the Day is Craftsman’s Extreme Grip 6-Piece Diamond Tip Screwdriver Set They used to be $39.99 and now are $19.99. Great gift for anyone.   At the end of the show I go off on a tirade about crappy bathroom tutorials…   If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you Remember, we have 180 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Is your toilet driving your nuts? Today we talk about 3 easy steps you can take to stop a toilet from running.   These tips can be done in less than 1 hour and will save you $90-$120. We have a full tutorial over on Home Repair Tutor http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-fix-a-running-toilet/   Do you hate having a cold head? Instructables has a cool 6 step tutorial on how to make a DIY carbon heated beanie http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-carbon-heated-beanie/ Anyone can make this.   Today’s Deal of the Day is Ridgid’s 18V 4.0Ah Lithium-Ion Battery 2-pack for $99. Pretty awesome. The warranty on these batteries is 3 years. Check this out over on Home Depot’s site using model number AC840087P     If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you Remember, we have 180 podcast shows You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Get 5 awesome tips that’ll make it run like new. Today’s show has all the details but if you want to see the tips over on Home Repair Tutor check them out here http://www.homerepairtutor.com/dishwasher-not-cleaning/   DeWalt is having a great deal on their 15 Amp Double Bevel Miter Saw over at Home Depot It used to be $349 but is now $299. Check it out before the deal goes away The model number is DW716   DeWalt is having a second AWESOME deal at Costco You can get their ToughSystem Bundle for $200 instead of $315 Check that out here http://toolguyd.com/dewalt-toughsystem-deals-h2015/   If you love Star Wars you’ll love Bob’s cool Giant Light Saber video…way cool https://youtu.be/MIymFB2uHXc

Today we talk about how to clean a bathtub or shower fast. These tips come in handy if you’re looking to cut down on cleaning time.   The Mother’s PowerBall is meant for polishing cars. But it’s perfect for cleaning bathtubs and showers.   You can attach it to a drill for powerful cleaning.   Here’s my tutorial on how to use the PowerBall   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-clean-a-bathtub/   Ridgid is having a bonus deal over on Home Depot   You can get a 5.5 Amp trim router with free 1/4” sheet sander for $99.   Here’s the model number R24011     If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 180 podcast shows   You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Want oven cleaning tips? Today we discuss 2 natural ways to cut the grease and grime.   But for the love of Pete…don’t use the self-cleaning option before Thanksgiving.   BIG MISTAKE!!!!   We also talk about how to cut holes in ceramic and porcelain tile.   This question was asked in our support group Bathroom Repair Tutor   In addition: Home Depot has a special deal of the day on a survival back pack that.   The model number of that back pack is 70385.   Today is the last day for our latest giveaway over on Home Repair Tutor   Watch our latest video tutorial on how to insulate walls to get the scoop…it’s pretty cool   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-insulate-walls-and-ceilings/     If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 180 podcast shows   You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Grease is disgusting.   I found a great product that removes it…Super Clean.   It costs about $5 and can be found in the automotive section of Walmart.   Check out this tutorial I made   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-clean-a-greasy-kitchen-hood/   Plus: today we talk about how to get great deals on patio furniture over on Home Depot’s site.   Tomorrow is the last day for our latest giveaway over on Home Repair Tutor.   Watch our latest video tutorial on how to insulate walls to get the scoop…it’s pretty cool   http://www.homerepairtutor.com/how-to-insulate-walls-and-ceilings/     If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 179 podcast shows   You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.

Should you buy a battery powered chainsaw?   Today we talk about DeWalt’s new 40V Max chainsaw and other cool stuff.   The thing about battery power is it eliminates the mess of storing gas powered lawn tools.   if you’re not aware…gas doesn’t last forever and it can gunk up your power tool motor.   That’s one benefit of battery powered tools.   We also talk about Samsung’s new SmartCam HD Pro camera and how to fix a sticking door.   I know, lots of things to talk about in one show.   Plus we talk about the solar powered deal of the day over on Home Depot     If you liked today’s show please give us a rating and review on iTunes, thank you   Remember, we have 178 podcast shows   You can listen to all of them for free over on iTunes or Stitcher.