5 Inexpensive Kitchen Updates | 4 Water Heater Options | Hands-Free Faucets | Ep #2251

SHOW NOTES: Kitchen Updates: Kitchen renovations can be costly, but we’ve got ideas on budget-friendly ways to update your kitchen. Water Heaters: Is it time to replace your water heater? Find out about four options to fit your lifestyle, budget, and energy efficiency needs. Hands-Free Faucets: When your hands are full, hands-free faucets are really convenient and have other advantages to offer, too.  Plus, answers to your home improvement questions. Woodpeckers: That woodpecker tapping outside the house is damaging the siding. Denise learns some ways to discourage the woodpeckers from returning, plus options to replace her siding. Restoring Concrete: Gary’s concrete porch is flaking, but we can suggest a DIY product to easily repair the concrete surface. Glue Removal: There’s glue residue on the linoleum floor that Charlotte just had installed. There are products she can use to remove the glue, but she’ll need to be careful to avoid damaging the floor. Metal Roofing: John’s been getting different opinions on what to put under his metal roof. We think plywood will be stronger, quieter, and easier to insulate than using lathe. Flowerbeds: A flowerbed can look lovely, but how far from the house should it be? We give Michelle some advice on how to avoid drainage problems by grading it properly and not using edging that will retain water. Plumbing Noises: Why is the sump pump in the basement making gurgling noises? Jack needs to check the venting in the pipes to make sure there’s enough airflow. Rusty Siding: Galvanized nails are causing rust stains on Laura’s siding, but covering them with polyurethane won’t help. If they can’t be replaced with stainless steel nails, she can try using paint or solid stain to cover them up. Roof Vents: Should Eric install more roof soffit vents? Replacing them with ventilated soffit material is a better option for keeping the house well-insulated. Mold and Mildew: Is there an easier way to clean mold and mildew from exterior brick without damaging the mortar? There are a number of mildewcide products that Judy can use along with a gentle pressure washer. Pests: Lorna doesn’t know where the fruit flies invading her kitchen are coming from. We’ve got a simple idea to clean and cover the garbage disposal drain to trap and eliminate the pests. Solar Water Heater: Mark’s considering installing a solar water system. We agree it’s a good cost-effective choice for saving energy and discuss some options and resources.     Do you have a home improvement or decor question? Call the show 24/7 at 888-MONEY-PIT (888-666-3974) or post your question here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices