Handyman Pros Radio Show

In this episode the Handyman Pros review an article on new information on Gen Z shifting away from traditional college education and moving towards the trades.  Some very interesting cultural and political points are discussed.    Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handyman prosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Did you know that you could order a home from the Sears and Roebuck catalog?  These homes are more common than you realize, we are having a discussion.   Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

In this episode the Handyman Pros give you 10 awesome tips to help you get your home ready for winter.  Winterizing your home is essential for protecting it from cold weather and saving on energy costs. Here are some tips for preparing your home for winter: 1. Seal Gaps and Cracks       Windows and Doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealant to fill any gaps.     Attic and Basement: Insulate cracks in your attic and basement where cold air can enter.     Outlet Insulation: Place insulation pads behind electrical outlets and light switches to prevent heat loss.   2. Check and Service Heating Systems       Furnace Maintenance: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional. Replace the furnace filter to ensure optimal efficiency.     Chimney Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, clean your chimney to avoid fire hazards and improve heating efficiency.     Thermostat: Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to better control your home's temperature.   3. Insulate and Protect Pipes       Pipe Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces to prevent freezing.     Drip Faucets: In extreme cold, let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.     Shut Off Exterior Faucets: Drain and shut off water supply to outdoor faucets and hoses to prevent freezing.   4. Inspect the Roof and Gutters       Roof Leaks: Check for any damaged shingles or roof leaks, as they can lead to costly repairs during heavy snow or rain.     Clean Gutters: Clear out debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams, which can cause water to leak into your home.   5. Insulate the Attic       Add Insulation: Increase attic insulation to keep heat from escaping through the roof. Proper insulation can save on heating costs.     Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ice dams.   6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors       Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially when using fireplaces or space heaters.   7. Check Windows and Curtains       Install Storm Windows: Use storm windows or plastic window insulation kits to add an extra layer of protection against the cold.     Heavy Curtains: Hang insulated or heavy curtains to block drafts and retain heat.   8. Inspect the Fireplace       Flue Inspection: Make sure the chimney flue is properly functioning and free of obstructions.     Fireplace Tools: Have fireplace tools, kindling, and firewood ready for use.   9. Reverse Ceiling Fans       Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to push warm air down into the room. Fans should rotate clockwise during winter.   10. Prepare for Snow and Ice       Snow Removal Tools: Stock up on snow shovels, de-icer, and sand for walkways.     Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, food, and flashlights in case of power outages.   Winterizing your home helps avoid costly repairs and ensures you stay comfortable throughout the cold season.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

John just completed his own stair remodeling project.  We thought we would have a discussion about redoing your stairs. NOTE: You might want to visit our YouTube site for the pictures.   Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Think you have mold in your home?  This episode will help you identify mold, the potential hazards, and how to prevent and remove mold in from your home   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

A planer is a woodworking tool used to smooth and flatten wooden surfaces, ensuring consistent thickness throughout a board. It's commonly used for: 1.           Flattening rough surfaces: A planer shaves off thin layers of wood to create an even surface. 2.           Adjusting thickness: It helps in reducing the thickness of a board to a desired measurement. 3.           Smoothing wood grain: Planers can improve the texture of the wood, making it easier to finish with paint or varnish. Planers come in both hand-held and machine versions, with the latter being more efficient for large woodworking projects. •             Full size 3-1/4 in. cut width •             Includes: (2) Reversible Double-Edged Blades and Dust Bag •             Automatic Kickstand Prevents Marring of Work Piece The Ryobi One+ 18-Volt hand planer has an incredible 3 in 1/4 in. cut width and up to 1/16 in. cutting depth per pass. This planer is loaded with great features such as its automatic kickstand, which helps prevent you from marring your workpiece and has a convenient on-board blade wrench storage. The dual left or right chip exhaust also gives you the freedom to choose what you are most comfortable with.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Developing a business referral mindset is about cultivating relationships and a reputation that encourage others to send business your way. Here are some steps to help foster this mindset: 1. Focus on Building Genuine Relationships •             Cultivate trust and rapport with customers, peers, and other business owners. •             Understand that referrals often come from people who genuinely like and trust you. 2. Deliver Outstanding Service •             Exceed expectations in your interactions with clients and partners. •             Happy clients are more likely to refer others because they feel confident in the quality of your service. 3. Be Proactive in Asking for Referrals •             Make it part of your routine to ask satisfied clients for referrals. •             Phrase your request in a way that emphasizes the value you'd provide to the referred person, e.g., "If you know anyone who could benefit from my services, I'd be happy to help them out." 4. Offer Referrals to Others •             Give referrals to other businesses or professionals when appropriate. •             This demonstrates your willingness to help others succeed and builds reciprocity. 5. Stay Connected •             Stay in touch with past clients, prospects, and referral partners. •             Regular communication, such as sending updates or checking in, keeps you top of mind. 6. Network Strategically •             Join professional organizations or attend industry events where you can build relationships with potential referral partners. •             Look for opportunities to form mutually beneficial alliances. 7. Create a Referral Program •             Offer incentives or rewards for clients or partners who refer new business to you. •             Make the process simple and clear to encourage participation. 8. Be Authentic and Ethical •             Ensure your referral system is based on genuine value, not just a transaction. •             Maintaining integrity is key for long-term success in generating referrals. 9. Educate Your Network •             Make sure people know what you do and who your ideal clients are so they can refer the right people to you. •             Share your success stories and case studies to highlight how your work benefits others. 10. Express Gratitude •             When someone refers business to you, acknowledge and thank them, whether it's a personalized note, a call, or a small gesture of appreciation.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com

Thinking of putting up a fence, installing a shed, seeding your lawn?  Many home improvement projects require knowing where your property lines are (sometimes exactly).    Knowing where your property lines are before undertaking many projects will help protect your property rights and reduce disputes with neighbors.   To find your property lines, you have several options: 1. Check Your Deed or Survey •             Deed: Your property deed often includes a legal description of your property, which defines its boundaries. It might describe the property in relation to landmarks or coordinates. •             Survey: If you have a property survey, it provides precise measurements and a detailed map of your property lines. You might have received this document when you purchased the property. 2. Look for Physical Markers •             Property Markers: Surveyors often place iron pins or concrete markers at the corners of your property. You can locate these markers with a metal detector or by measuring distances from known landmarks (like roads or utility poles) as described in your deed. 3. Visit Your Local Government Office •             County Assessor or Recorder's Office: You can obtain property maps, records, and sometimes surveys from the local county office. Many counties offer access to online Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which allow you to view property boundaries. 4. Use an Online GIS Mapping Tool •             County GIS: Many counties provide online tools that allow you to view property lines on a map. Most GIS system that lets you search by address and view property boundaries. 5. Hire a Professional Surveyor •             If you need precise property lines for legal purposes or construction, hiring a professional surveyor is the most accurate method. They will use equipment and official records to mark your property boundaries.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Here are five tips for buying real estate: 1.           Inspect Thoroughly: Before making an offer, conduct a thorough inspection of the property. This includes structural elements, plumbing, electrical systems, and any potential issues that could affect the value or safety of the home. 2.           Research the Market: Drive the Neighborhood.  Understand the current market conditions in the area where you want to buy. Look at trends in property values, average selling prices, and the overall economic outlook. 3.           Local Governmental Issues: Check local codes, districts, and public services.  Are you potentially in any special district (historic, etc).  Are the public services reasonable in cost (don’t assume)?   Electricity, water, gas, check them out. 4.           Other Legal Issues: Easements and contractual arrangements 5.           Consider Future Resale: Even if you plan to live in the home long-term, think about its resale potential. Factors like location, neighborhood amenities, and the condition of the property can impact its value over time. These tips can help you navigate the real estate market more effectively and make informed decisions when buying a property. Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

In this episode the Handyman Pros have a discussion and dispel some common beliefs about Home Improvement.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Before doing anything drastic (like replacing an entire system), you should call out a tech to give your system a quick tune-up. a.           This will involve assessing your system’s indoor and outdoor components, including ducts and dirty filters.  b.            You’ll want to make sure that the area around your HVAC system is clear.  Your air conditioner condenser cannot work at its peak capacity if plants or dirt and weeds restrict its airflow.  For maximum output, clear an area of four feet around the condenser. Troublesome airflow might come from your home’s ductwork. c.            There could be design issues or leaks causing uneven cooling, especially in older homes with HVAC systems that haven’t been maintained in a while. d.           As a result, cool air can struggle to reach the upstairs, because it’s either getting lost due to leaks or warming as it travels. Placing portable fans or adding ceiling fans could do the trick.  Fans can boost air circulation and make a noticeable difference.  The air from the fan creates a cooling effect and can help give your A/C a boost.” Keep Interior doors open:  Let the air flow, minimizes “hot spots” Close your blinds, curtains, or add window film!  Blocking the light keeps homes cooler. Turn off the lights.  Unless you are all LED, lightbulbs add significant heat. Consider a window AC unit Check your attic.  Is the floor properly insulated?  Is the attic vented properly? Check to see if you have Zoned AC.  Consider adding a unit (mini splits work great). Live in the downstairs for the summer!   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Here are five natural weed killers you can use: 1.            Vinegar: White vinegar contains acetic acid, which is effective at killing weeds. It's best used on young, small weeds. Be careful as it can also harm other plants. 2.            Rubbing Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates plants, making it effective at killing weeds. Sprinkle it directly on weeds or mix it with water for a spray solution. 3.            Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water directly onto weeds can kill them by scalding. This method works best for weeds growing in cracks in sidewalks or driveways. 4.            Pull the weeds: The old fashioned way! 5.            Mulch: Applying a thick layer of mulch around plants can block sunlight, preventing weed seeds from germinating. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or grass clippings also improve soil health as they decompose.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Regular monthly maintenance can help keep your home in good condition and prevent larger issues from developing. Here’s a list of tasks you should consider doing each month: 1.           HVAC Filters: a.           Check and replace the HVAC filters as needed to ensure your system runs efficiently and maintains good air quality. 2.           Kitchen Sink Disposal:  .             Clean the garbage disposal by running a mixture of vinegar and baking soda through it or using ice cubes and lemon slices to sharpen and deodorize the blades. 3.           Range Hood Filters:  .             Clean or replace the range hood filters to remove grease and improve ventilation. 4.           Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:  .             Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly. Replace batteries if needed. 5.           Faucets and Showerheads:  .             Check for leaks and ensure there is no buildup of mineral deposits. Clean the aerators on faucets to maintain good water flow. 6.           Toilets:  .             Check for leaks and ensure they are flushing properly. You can use food coloring in the tank to see if it leaks into the bowl. 7.           Drains:  .             Clean drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent clogs and maintain good drainage. 8.           Fire Extinguishers:  .             Ensure they are easily accessible and check the pressure gauge to make sure they are fully charged. 9.           Refrigerator:  .             Clean the coils and check the temperature settings to ensure efficient operation. Dispose of expired food items. 10.        Dishwasher:  .             Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner to remove buildup and ensure it operates efficiently. 11.        Windows and Doors:  .             Check for drafts and inspect the weatherstripping. Lubricate hinges and locks if necessary. 12.        Water Softener:  .             Check the salt levels and add salt if necessary to keep the system functioning properly. 13.        Exterior:  .             Inspect the exterior of your home for any signs of damage, such as cracks or peeling paint. Clean gutters and downspouts if necessary. 14.        Yard and Landscaping:  .             Trim shrubs and trees as needed, check irrigation systems, and remove debris from the lawn. 15.        Safety Equipment:  .             Check first aid kits to ensure they are fully stocked and accessible. By keeping up with these monthly maintenance tasks, you can help prolong the life of your home's systems and appliances and maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

What is a Renocation, you might ask?  Well, a Renocation is combining a vacation with a renovation, thought we would give a few tips on taking a Renocation.   •             Wouldn’t it be nice to go on vacation and come home to a new Kitchen, Bath or some other home improvement you want? o             You’re not there during messy, noisy, potentially dangerous demolition. o             You skip the chaos of workers going in and out of your house all day, drilling, hammering and creating fumes. o             You don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of not having a working kitchen, having water shut off periodically or entire rooms not being usable. o             Workers can start work earlier and work later in the day, knowing they’re not disturbing homeowners. o             You avoid the urge to micromanage the project and constantly look over the shoulders of contractors. o             Some projects, like a roof replacement, may be so disruptive that it’s best to vacate the house anyway. o             You come home to a finished project, and get the “Wow!” moment of seeing your renovated home for the first time. o             •             Reasons why you might not want to take a Renocation.  Here are some potential downsides to being away while the work is done: •             You’ll come home to a mess, especially if there’s no project manager supervising on your behalf. Your contractor isn’t going to dust, sweep and vacuum for you. •             Workers will make themselves at home in the owner’s absence. Your bathroom will definitely get used and abused.  Leave plenty of toilet paper behind! •             You’re never really “away” from the job site. While out of town, your phone will ring and ping constantly, with calls and messages concerning the work at your house. •             Things can go wrong. Sheetrock went up before a few electrical outlets were in place. They had to add them after the fact and it delayed the completion time. •             You might not get what you asked for. That gorgeous sage green paint you picked out for the guest bathroom might be mis-ordered, and you’ll come home to chartreuse walls! •             Vacations are expensive, and so are renovations. Combining the two may stretch your renovation budget beyond its limits. o             •             Tips for a Renocation. o             Not applicable to all projects, o             Good Contractors love when clients go on Renocation! o             Find a Good Contractor o             Be specific and have a strong plan o             Have the ability to be contacted   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Summer always brings out the mosquitoes.  There are some simple things you can do to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home. •             Wear Light Colored Clothing: Turns out, mosquitoes are attracted to dark colored clothing •             Run Fans at Ground Level: The chemicals human bodies put off hang in the air around us and allow mosquitoes to hone in on us — and that’s when the biting starts. Rapid air movement confuses mosquitoes, and dissipating these telltale human signs makes us harder to find.  So set fans on the ground and turn them on to break up the scent patterns. This simple solution is surprisingly effective for spur-of-the-moment events or gatherings in your yard. Because they are so light, mosquitoes are weak flyers. The breeze from the fans makes it difficult for them to fly, keeping them out of your entertainment area. If you don’t have repellent on hand, then this is the best way to get rid of mosquitoes for the moment. •             Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so empty any containers that collect water regularly, such as flower pots, buckets, and bird baths. •             Maintain Gutters and Drains: Clean out gutters and ensure they are not clogged, as clogged gutters can hold water and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. •             Keep Yard Clean: Remove any debris or leaf piles where water can collect. Trim overgrown vegetation where mosquitoes like to rest during the day. •             Use Mosquito Repellents: Use mosquito repellents on your skin or clothing when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.  DEET, Clove Spray, Citronella oil, Peppermint, NEEM, Lavender, Eucalyptus. •             Install Screens: Ensure windows and doors have screens without holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. •             Consider Mosquito Traps: There are various types of traps available that can help reduce mosquito populations around your property. •             Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators of mosquitoes, such as dragonflies, by adding plants and water features that attract them. •             Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lavender, marigolds, and basil around your yard. •             Professional Help: In severe cases, consider contacting a pest control professional who can provide more targeted solutions. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the mosquito population around your home and make your outdoor spaces more enjoyable.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

We are in the middle of the AC season.  Thought we would go over some of the simple fixes that you can DIY before you call the service technician (and pay the big bucks!). Understand how an AC Unit works o             Ambient temperature differential o             Setting temperature to a lower setting does not mean your unit will cool faster o             Is your home well insulated? There are a few simple things you can check to see if your air conditioning is working properly: 1.           Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is set to "cool" and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. 2.           Air Filter: Check and replace your air filter if it's dirty. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your AC. 3.           Power Supply: Make sure your AC unit is receiving power. Check the circuit breaker and ensure it hasn't tripped. Also, check if the outdoor unit is plugged in. 4.           Vents and Registers: Ensure all vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture or other objects. 5.           Outdoor Unit: Inspect the outdoor unit to make sure it's not obstructed by debris, leaves, or other objects. Clear any debris around the unit to ensure proper airflow. 6.           Condenser Coils: Check the condenser coils for dirt or debris. If they are dirty, you can clean them with a garden hose, but make sure the unit is turned off first. 7.           Blower Motor: Listen for the sound of the blower motor. If it's not running, there might be an issue with the motor or a related component. 8.           Drain Line: Check the condensate drain line to ensure it's not clogged. A clogged drain line can cause water to back up and damage the system. If you've checked these things and your AC is still not working properly, it might be time to call a professional technician to diagnose and fix the issue.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

I was at a client's home and noticed that she had a timer switch on the bathroom fan.  This is not the old turn the dial timer switch, but an attractive electronic version that gives you several choices.  John and I discussed, and we decided to do a show on some of the options for switches and outlets •             What we are not talking about o             3 or 4 way switches o             Duplex or square outlets o             GFCI o             Smart Switches •             Multiple Switches •             Dimmer Switches o             Many different styles              Rotary              Slide              Slide with switch              Touch to slide              Fade o             Make sure they are LED capable •             Motion Sensor •             24 hour programmable •             Timer switches •             Illuminated Switches •             In Wall Humidity Fan Control Switch   •             Outlets o             USB o             Night Light o             Switchable o             Surge Suppressor o             recessed Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com

This show is all about saving you time, money and aggravation.  These tips can help you avoid plumbing emergencies. •             Monitor your water bill o             Look for increased billing, can indicate a problem •             Watch What you put in your Drains and Toilets o             Just because the packaging says it’s flushable does not mean it’s flushable o             Watch the FOG (fats, oils and greases), hard items, chemicals o             Avoid harsh drain cleaning chemicals, corrode and melt pipes, damage septic systems •             Do regular inspections o             Look for drain leaks under sinks, washing machine hoses, sink connections, ice maker connections, toilet connections o             Check your PRV Valve o             Water filter maintenance o             Water around toilet (toilet seal) •             Test your emergency systems o             Hot water relief valve o             Sump pump o             Main water shut off valve •             Check your water heater o             Drain regularly o             Change the anode rod •             Prevent frozen pipes o             Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape o             Flow water on extremely cold nights •             Turn off main water shut off valve when traveling

The Handyman Pros give some tips on using the technology (mostly your phone) to enhance your ability to stay organized, be professional, and help you save time, money, and aggravation!   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Addressing the items that annoy you first (your “Bug List”) in home maintenance is important for several reasons: 1.           Improved Quality of Life: Annoying issues, even if minor, can significantly impact your daily comfort and satisfaction. Fixing these problems can lead to a more pleasant and stress-free living environment. 2.           Increased Motivation: Tackling and resolving small, annoying issues can create a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to take on more significant maintenance tasks. It sets a positive momentum for ongoing home upkeep. 3.           Prevention of Larger Problems: Annoying issues often indicate underlying problems that could escalate if ignored. Addressing them early can prevent more severe and costly repairs down the line. 4.           Enhanced Home Value: Regularly addressing and fixing minor issues helps maintain the overall condition of your home, which can preserve or even increase its market value. Potential buyers are more likely to be interested in a well-maintained property. 5.           Safety and Health: Some annoying issues might pose safety or health risks. For example, a leaky faucet might lead to mold growth, or a loose handrail could cause falls. Promptly addressing these problems ensures a safer living environment. 6.           Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is well-maintained and free of nagging issues provides peace of mind. You can relax and enjoy your space without being constantly reminded of things that need fixing. In summary, addressing annoying maintenance issues first leads to a more comfortable, safe, and well-maintained home, ultimately enhancing your overall quality of life and home value.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.