We’re diving into some juicy updates from the building community this week! Eric G is here to spill the tea on how we’re right in the thick of a whirlwind of change, driven by flashy new tech and potential shifts in energy standards. He’s got his finger on the pulse of what’s happening out there, and he’s calling for a hefty dose of common sense at the table. We’re talking about how all this innovation can crank up costs for homeowners, and whether it’s really worth it in the long run. So, buckl...
Feb 19, 2025•17 min•Season 36Ep. 1930
Hiring a contractor can feel like picking the right partner for a dance—get it wrong, and you might end up stepping on some toes! That’s why we’re diving into the nitty-gritty with Eric G as he shares his top 10 questions to ask before you let just anyone waltz into your home for a remodel or renovation. From checking if they’re licensed and insured (because you don’t want to be liable for someone else's bad day) to making sure they offer clear written estimates that won’t leave you guessing, we...
Feb 15, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1928
Eric G dives into a treasure trove of DIY goodness, laying out his top 10 favorite home projects for 2025 that are likely to dodge the tariff troubles. With the ongoing chaos in trade, he’s picked projects that not only add value but also keep those pesky costs in check. From tackling energy efficiency upgrades to sprucing up your front door and garage, Eric's got the scoop on making your home both a fortress and a cozy haven. He’s all about keeping it practical without breaking the bank, so whe...
Feb 15, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1927
Buckle up, folks! This Weekday Update is all about storm prep and the shiny new generator that’s about to become my best buddy. I’m diving into the nitty-gritty of why this tri-fuel powerhouse is a game-changer for tackling those pesky power outages that come with a good ol' snowstorm. But that's not all; we're also spilling the tea on some concerning consumer recalls—like those electric ranges that might just turn your kitchen into a fire hazard if a pet decides to get a little too curious. And...
Feb 12, 2025•11 min•Season 36Ep. 1925
Tariff talk is heating up between Canada and Mexico, and I'm here to break it all down for you! We'll dive into how these trade talks might be shaking up the prices on everything from cabinetry to drywall, which could leave homeowners feeling a little uneasy. But wait, there's more! As winter rolls in, I’ll also share some killer tips on how to keep those pesky colds and viruses at bay this season. Seriously, who has time to be sick when there’s home improvement to tackle? So grab your favorite ...
Feb 06, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1924
Radon gas might sound like a villain from a sci-fi flick, but it’s all too real and lurking in many homes, waiting to wreak havoc on our lungs. In this chat, Eric G hangs out with radon guru Dallas Jones, who spills the beans on why this sneaky radioactive gas is a top contender for lung cancer risk. We’re diving deep into the nitty-gritty of radon: how it creeps into our homes, why you should care, and, most importantly, how to kick it to the curb safely. Whether you're renovating, buying, or j...
Feb 06, 2025•50 min•Season 36Ep. 1923
Trade wars are stirring up quite the ruckus, and we’re diving headfirst into how they could mess with your big projects and social media vibes. With tariffs looming and delivery delays from places like China, it seems like now's the time to rethink those renovation plans. Whether you're eyeing a kitchen remodel or just dreaming of a new paint job, we’re here to remind you to tackle those smaller projects while the big stuff hangs in limbo. Plus, let's chat about the chaos of social media and how...
Feb 05, 2025•12 min•Season 36Ep. 1921
Today, we explore the critical relationship between cost and value in exterior renovations, helping you understand what you can expect in terms of return on investment. We'll dive into specific projects, such as entry door replacements, garage door renovations, and composite decking, detailing their costs and potential resale values. Discover how these projects can enhance your home's curb appeal and overall worth, with some renovations yielding impressive returns of over 200%. Along the way, we...
Jan 30, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1920
This episode dives deep into the cost versus value of home remodeling projects, focusing on kitchen and bathroom renovations. Eric G reveals crucial insights from the latest Cost vs. Value report, highlighting the significant investment required for various remodeling projects and the potential return on investment. For instance, a minor kitchen remodel in New York averages around $30,928, with a remarkable 101.9% cost recoup, making it a smart financial move. However, the numbers shift dramatic...
Jan 30, 2025•46 min•Season 36Ep. 1919
Homeowners in 2025 need to be vigilant about potential scams in the home improvement sector. This week, we dive into the top five scams that could catch you off guard, from dubious duct cleaning companies to unlicensed contractors lurking on social media. With the rise of low-quality house flippers and their shoddy repairs, it's more important than ever to do your due diligence before hiring any service. We'll discuss how to identify these scams and protect your home and wallet. Join us as we na...
Jan 29, 2025•10 min•Season 36Ep. 1917
Navigating the world of home renovations can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding contracts with contractors. Eric G sits down with construction law attorney Andy Wyman to unpack essential strategies for hiring professionals and ensuring your projects stay on track and within budget. They emphasize the importance of a well-drafted contract, highlighting how clear terms can protect homeowners from unexpected costs and disputes. Andy shares valuable insights on red flags to w...
Jan 23, 2025•51 min•Season 36Ep. 1916
Are you wondering when to tackle a home improvement project yourself and when to call in a professional? Eric G dives into the important distinctions between DIY projects and hiring experts, emphasizing the need to understand your skills and build on them. He shares valuable insights on the complexities of various home systems, like HVAC and plumbing, which often require expert knowledge to avoid costly mistakes. Throughout the episode, Eric discusses the significance of understanding local buil...
Jan 23, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1915
As temperatures drop and unexpected cold weather sweeps through the South, Eric G offers essential tips to protect your home from frozen pipes. Many homeowners in warmer climates may not be prepared for the challenges that come with freezing temperatures, but Eric is here to help. He emphasizes the importance of keeping water flowing in your pipes and maintaining a warm environment inside your home to prevent freezing. Additionally, he provides practical advice on how to insulate vulnerable area...
Jan 22, 2025•12 min•Season 36Ep. 1913
Homeowners and renters facing total losses from disasters like wildfires and hurricanes need to prioritize creating a comprehensive inventory of their belongings. Eric G revisits a crucial discussion with Ken Aaron, founder of Virtual Home Inventory, who emphasizes the importance of documenting possessions to ensure proper insurance claims. The episode explores practical steps for conducting home inventories, whether through professional services or DIY methods, while highlighting common pitfall...
Jan 16, 2025•49 min•Season 36Ep. 1912
Navigating homeowners and renters insurance claims can be a daunting task, especially in light of the recent wildfires in Southern California and hurricanes on the East Coast. Galen Hair, owner of Insurance Claim HQ, joins us to shed light on the complexities of the insurance process and how homeowners can protect themselves. We delve into the common pitfalls that many face, such as misunderstanding coverage details and the implications of underinsurance. Galen emphasizes the importance of being...
Jan 16, 2025•57 min•Season 36Ep. 1911
Eric G dives into the highlights from the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, focusing on the latest advancements in smart home technology. From innovative robotic vacuums like the Roborock Soros Z70, which features a groundbreaking mechanical arm for enhanced cleaning capabilities, to affordable motorized blinds from Casita by Lutron, the episode showcases how these products can simplify household chores and elevate home living. Eric also discusses the exciting new offerings from Aqara...
Jan 15, 2025•20 min•Season 36Ep. 1909
This remastered episode features architect David Applebaum, who shares his journey and insights into home design. Eric G reflects on his recent loss due to the devastating Pacific Palisades wildfires. In this episode from 2021 David emphasizes the importance of creating homes that inspire and nurture. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of working with clients, especially those who have been in their homes long enough to know what truly works for them. Eric G and David explor...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 36Ep. 1908
Join Eric G. as he dives into the top 10 outdated materials and installation methods that should be retired from your home. From concrete backer board to CPVC pipes, Eric highlights the shortcomings of these products and offers insights into better alternatives that can enhance your home’s durability and safety. He also discusses the dangers of using vinyl siding and the ineffectiveness of microwave vent hoods that recirculate air back into your kitchen. As he shares his personal opinions on the...
Jan 09, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1907
Thinking about investing in cabinetry for your home? Eric G. reveals his top 10 essential questions to ask before making that significant purchase, potentially saving you thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches. From the meaning of "custom" cabinetry to the importance of finishes, Eric emphasizes that not all cabinetry is created equal, and understanding the details can make a world of difference. He highlights the critical aspects of construction, hardware, and design, ensuring you know wha...
Jan 09, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1906
The devastating California wildfires are reshaping how we think about construction and building safety for years to come. Eric G. shares his deep concern for those affected, especially highlighting the loss of homes and the challenges faced in combating such fierce fires fueled by hurricane-force winds. He delves into the importance of building resilience in homes, particularly in wildfire-prone areas, emphasizing new strategies to prevent embers from igniting structures. Additionally, Eric disc...
Jan 08, 2025•18 min•Season 36Ep. 1904
Get ready to elevate your cleaning game in 2025 with Eric G's top 10 cleaning hacks for your home. This episode focuses on easy cleaning strategies that won't ruin your belongings, emphasizing the importance of using the right methods and products. From avoiding common pitfalls like bleach and pumice sticks to maintaining your appliances, Eric shares practical advice to help keep your home clean and fresh. He dives into specific tips for dishwashers, washing machines, and even refrigerators, ens...
Jan 02, 2025•47 min•Season 36Ep. 1903
Are you ready to save money and protect your home in 2025? Eric G shares essential tips and tricks for homeowners, focusing on key areas that could lead to costly repairs if neglected. From maintaining your HVAC system to ensuring your roof is in top shape, these insights are designed to help you get the most out of your home. Eric emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance and proactive planning, such as checking insurance coverage and preparing for potential weather-related emergenc...
Jan 02, 2025•48 min•Season 36Ep. 1902
Join Eric G as he wraps up the year and shares an exciting preview of what's to come in 2025 for Around the House. He expresses gratitude towards listeners for making the past year a success and invites feedback on show ideas for the upcoming year. With new guests, trade shows, and fresh content on the horizon, Eric is eager to enhance the listening experience for everyone. He also highlights important safety recalls, including a warning about lithium-ion batteries, and emphasizes the growing so...
Dec 31, 2024•8 min•Season 36Ep. 1900
Join Eric as he engages with home technology inventor and expert Jim Carroll to explore the revolutionary smart home control system developed by Sendal, designed to enhance indoor air quality. This innovative solution aims to seamlessly integrate various smart devices, allowing homeowners to enjoy a healthier living environment without the hassle of managing multiple systems. Jim shares insights on the importance of active whole-house dehumidification, revealing that an astonishing 80% of U.S. h...
Dec 26, 2024•51 min•Season 36Ep. 1899
If you're a homeowner considering foundation repair, this episode is essential listening. Eric G. sits down with RK Bob Brown, affectionately known as the Dirt Whisperer, who brings over 35 years of experience in the foundation repair industry. They delve into the common myths that surround foundation issues and discuss the importance of consulting a geotechnical engineer before engaging with contractors. Bob emphasizes the need for homeowners to be informed, as many companies exploit fear and l...
Dec 26, 2024•49 min•Season 36Ep. 1898
A significant legal battle is unfolding in Washington State as the newly approved Initiative 2066, which protects the use of natural gas as an energy source, faces opposition from local government officials. Despite nearly 2 million residents voting to support this initiative, climate advocates and city leaders have filed a lawsuit to overturn the will of the voters. Host Eric G. discusses the implications of this conflict, highlighting the disconnect between the elected officials and the consti...
Dec 24, 2024•11 min•Season 36Ep. 1896
Are you aware of the top 10 ways bad contractors can rip you off? Eric G, host of the Around the House show, dives into the murky waters of home improvement scams to arm you with the knowledge you need to protect yourself. While there are countless reputable contractors ready to help you with your projects, a few bad apples can spoil the bunch. From hidden fees to unlicensed subcontractors, Eric outlines the red flags to watch for when hiring a contractor. He emphasizes the importance of detaile...
Dec 19, 2024•48 min•Season 36Ep. 1895
Eric G sits down with Brad Nelson from Summit Trailer Mfg to explore the world of tough and reliable trailers designed for homeowners, contractors, and landscapers. They delve into the unique advantages of Summit trailers, highlighting their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. With a background in aerospace manufacturing, Eric shares insights into how this expertise translates into creating trailers that are not only durable but also user-friendly. Brad emphasizes th...
Dec 19, 2024•43 min•Season 36Ep. 1894
This Weekday Update is packed with essential information for homeowners. HVAC pricing is on the rise, with potential increases of up to 30% due to a refrigerant change coming soon, making it a critical time to consider upgrading your system. Additionally, we delve into the recent recalls of popular household products, including battery chargers and travel mugs, highlighting safety concerns you need to be aware of. As winter approaches, we also discuss the importance of controlling humidity level...
Dec 18, 2024•10 min•Season 36Ep. 1892
Eric G shares his favorite ways to save money around the house for 2025, highlighting that small changes can lead to significant savings. He emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of tax deductions through donations, suggesting that decluttering and donating items can benefit both the homeowner and local charities. As the cost of home improvement projects continues to rise, Eric advises listeners to consider upgrading their HVAC systems now to avoid higher prices later. He also encourages...
Dec 12, 2024•48 min•Season 36Ep. 1891
