# "At Home with Gary Sullivan": Tackling Winter Home Maintenance

Are your gutters ready for winter? In this hour of "At Home with Gary Sullivan," listeners get practical advice on preparing their homes for the cold season ahead. From proper gutter maintenance to basement insulation techniques, Gary and his expert guests share invaluable tips that could save homeowners thousands in potential damage and energy costs.

Gary kicks off the show emphasizing the importance of cleaning gutters before winter sets in to prevent ice dams, rot, and pest problems. Throughout the episode, he fields calls from homeowners across the country, offering personalized solutions for common seasonal challenges.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**10:15** - Mice-proofing garages: Jim learns about specialized foam insulation that deters rodents from entering through gaps in his garage structure

**18:30** - Basement insulation best practices: Rachel gets advice on proper moisture management with rigid foam panels to prevent mold issues

**32:40** - Energy efficiency with TVA expert Ashley England: Discussion of HVAC maintenance, filter replacement schedules, and energy assessment tools

**47:20** - Bathroom ventilation: Mike receives guidance on proper roof venting for bathroom exhaust fans

**50:05** - Roofing warranties explained: Benny learns about lifetime roofing warranties and the importance of proper installation

The conversation with Ashley England from Tennessee Valley Authority reveals why energy companies actually want consumers to save energy - it helps manage peak demand and reduces the need for expensive infrastructure that's rarely used. She also explains how homeowners can get free energy-saving kits and rebates through energyright.com.

Ready to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient this winter? Listen now for expert advice that will keep your home warm, dry, and your energy bills manageable as temperatures drop.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Cleaning Your Home's Hidden Trouble Spots

Are you neglecting the silent troublemakers lurking in your home? In this eye-opening hour, Gary Sullivan reveals why your drains might be secretly sabotaging your home's health and efficiency.

From bathroom gel residue to outdoor drainage systems, Gary exposes the often-overlooked maintenance tasks that could prevent costly disasters. You'll discover why those sticky hair products and toothpastes are creating a breeding ground for bacteria in your pipes, and why harsh chemical solutions aren't the answer.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**3:15** - Bathroom drain maintenance: Why gels from everyday products create sticky bacterial breeding grounds and how to safely clean them
**6:30** - Outdoor drain inspection: The importance of checking downspout exits and sump pump discharge points
**9:45** - Winter home maintenance: How to fix crown molding and baseboards that pull away during dry winter months
**15:20** - Bathroom fan sizing: Getting the right CFM rating for proper moisture removal
**18:45** - Chimney inspection essentials: Why visual camera inspections are critical for fire safety
**23:30** - Garbage disposal cleaning: Simple methods to eliminate odors and bacteria

Gary also shares invaluable advice about chimney maintenance, explaining why those chimney-cleaning logs aren't enough by themselves and how an undetected cracked liner could put your entire home at risk.

Don't wait for a major problem to appear! Listen now and learn how these simple maintenance tasks can protect your home, improve efficiency, and give you peace of mind as we head into the winter months.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Keeping Your Home Energy Efficient with TVA Expert Ashley England

Are you watching your energy bills climb higher each month? In this insightful Interview, we sit down with Ashley England from the Tennessee Valley Authority to uncover practical ways homeowners can maximize energy efficiency while minimizing costs. With electricity demands growing rapidly across the Southeast and the world, understanding how to optimize your home's energy usage has never been more important.

The Tennessee Valley Authority serves approximately 10 million people across seven states, generating electricity for 153 local power companies without taxpayer funding. Beyond power generation, they manage flood control, navigation, and land management for the Tennessee River system while supporting regional economic development.

## Key Timestamps and Takeaways:

**2:15** - HVAC systems consume nearly half of your home's energy
- Schedule biannual tune-ups (fall and spring) to maintain efficiency
- Replace air filters monthly, especially if you have pets
- TVA offers a $50 rebate for tune-ups performed by their Quality Contractor Network

**5:30** - DIY Home Energy Assessment
- Free 5-6 minute assessment at energyright.com
- Receive personalized recommendations for your specific home
- Get a free energy-saving kit including LED bulbs, filter whistles, and a $10 Home Improvement Store gift card

**8:45** - Why TVA promotes energy conservation
- Reducing peak demand helps avoid building expensive infrastructure
- Supports regional growth by ensuring energy availability
- Maintains lower rates and a more resilient power grid

**10:20** - Appliance efficiency
- Modern refrigerators use significantly less energy than older models
- Consider upgrading appliances over 10-15 years old
- LED lighting can save approximately $200-225 annually compared to incandescent bulbs

Want to stop wasting money on unnecessary energy costs? Listen to our full conversation with Ashley England to discover how simple changes can make your home more comfortable while reducing your monthly bills. Your wallet—and the environment—will thank you!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Unlocking Home Improvement Secrets: Your Weekend DIY Companion

Are you tired of looking at those dated countertops but don't have thousands to spend on granite? This hour dives into affordable weekend transformations that can breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank. From countertop refinishing kits to essential garage door maintenance, you'll discover how small projects can make a big impact.

The holiday season leaves many homes feeling tired and worn. Our host shares professional insights on how to tackle those post-celebration home improvement projects with practical, budget-friendly solutions. Whether it's updating countertops with specialized coating kits or properly mounting handrails in plaster walls, this episode delivers expert advice for the DIY enthusiast.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**7:15** - Dice Coatings countertop refinishing kits: Transform dated countertops in a weekend with simple hourly steps that mimic granite or marble for a fraction of the cost

**17:30** - Proper wall anchoring techniques: Learn the differences between toggle bolts, molly bolts and specialty anchors for securing items to plaster and drywall

**25:45** - Garage door maintenance: How to properly clean and lubricate your garage door mechanism to prevent failure in extreme temperatures

**33:10** - Quick home refreshers: Simple weekend projects like removing dated wallpaper borders and refinishing worn handrails

**38:20** - DIY drain maintenance solutions: Homemade and commercial enzyme cleaners to keep your drains flowing freely

Ready to tackle those home improvement projects that have been lingering on your to-do list? This hour provides the confidence and know-how you need to transform your space without professional help. Listen now and turn your home improvement dreams into weekend realities!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Weekend at Home with Gary Sullivan: Mastering Home Maintenance

Are your home drains getting the attention they deserve? In this eye-opening episode, Gary Sullivan dives into the often-overlooked aspects of home maintenance that could save you thousands in repairs. From checking outdoor drainage systems to proper disposal usage with septic tanks, Gary shares practical wisdom that goes beyond the typical DIY advice.

The episode highlights the critical importance of inspecting external drains, especially after heavy rainfall. As Gary warns, misaligned pipes can create a dangerous cycle where water returns to your foundation instead of draining away properly. His personal experience discovering his own misaligned drainage pipe serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners everywhere.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**3:15** - Outdoor Drain Maintenance: Why checking external drainage systems after rainfall is crucial for preventing foundation damage
**7:40** - Dust Problems: How dirty ductwork and deteriorating insulation can create persistent dust issues in your home
**14:30** - Caulking Secrets: A caller shares his 40-year caulking technique using thin masking tape for perfect lines
**19:45** - Sink Refinishing Options: Alternatives to replacing porcelain sinks when dealing with granite countertops
**24:20** - Well Water Blockages: Troubleshooting slow water flow in washing machines with well water systems
**28:10** - Garbage Disposals with Septic Systems: The truth about which models work best and proper usage techniques
**31:30** - Winter Humidity Control: Why maintaining proper indoor humidity levels affects both comfort and home maintenance

Whether you're dealing with persistent dust, clogged drains, or wondering about the right disposal for your septic system, this episode delivers practical solutions from Gary's decades of experience. Don't miss his insights on maintaining proper humidity levels as winter approaches - your comfort and your home's structural integrity may depend on it!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**From Maintenance to Masterpieces: Navigating Home Improvement with Gary Sullivan**

Step into the world of home improvement as Gary Sullivan tackles everything from Christmas tree mishaps to humidity control. This episode dives deep into practical solutions for common household dilemmas, offering expert advice that balances DIY approaches with professional insights.

Gary shares personal experiences and listener stories about securing Christmas trees, eliminating stubborn odors, and rejuvenating tired cabinets. The conversation takes unexpected turns when an HVAC professional calls in to debate the merits of continuous fan operation, and a piano technician reveals the critical relationship between home humidity and instrument maintenance.

**Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**
- 3:45 - Creative solutions for securing Christmas trees, including ceiling anchors for homes with active children
- 12:30 - The debate on running HVAC fans continuously vs. auto mode for humidity control
- 25:15 - Three main causes of creaky wood floors and how to address each one
- 29:20 - Expert insights on radiant barrier paint for attics and how it works like "putting a shade tree over your house"
- 37:30 - Piano technician explains how humidity affects instruments and why whole-home humidity control is critical

Whether you're planning a post-holiday renovation project, troubleshooting mysterious creaks, or simply looking to maintain your home's systems properly, this hour delivers practical wisdom from Gary and his community of experts and homeowners.

Ready to tackle your home improvement challenges with confidence? Listen now and discover solutions you won't find in any manual!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Renovating History: The Art of Home Preservation

Step into the world of historic home renovation with Gary Sullivan as he welcomes Beth Johnson, Executive Director of Cincinnati Preservation. This fascinating episode explores the delicate balance between preserving architectural heritage and making homes livable for modern families. From barnwood restoration techniques to the secrets of maintaining original wood windows, Gary and Beth share insights that will inspire both DIY enthusiasts and preservation purists alike.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**00:00-05:30** - Gary helps a caller restore barnwood walls in his basement man cave, recommending tri-sodium phosphate for cleaning and Danish oil for rejuvenation.

**05:31-10:45** - Discussion about pouring concrete in cold weather conditions, including when anti-freeze additives are necessary for winter construction projects.

**10:46-18:30** - Gary shares practical tips for winterizing homes, including how to fix drywall tape issues caused by low humidity and sealing attic access doors to prevent drafts.

**18:31-32:00** - Beth Johnson explains Cincinnati Preservation's mission as an educational resource for historic homeowners, covering different types of historic designations and preservation requirements.

**32:01-39:15** - Discussion about preservation technologies, including window restoration versus replacement, specialized cleaning methods for historic materials, and the organization's archaeological preservation efforts.

**39:16-43:30** - Information about Cincinnati Preservation's funding model, volunteer opportunities, and how listeners can support their Guiding Star fundraising campaign.

Whether you're restoring a Victorian gem or simply appreciating the craftsmanship of bygone eras, this episode offers valuable insights into preserving our architectural heritage. Visit cincinnatipreservation.org to learn more about protecting historic buildings in your community and discover resources for your own preservation journey.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

# Preserving Cincinnati's Historic Homes: A Deep Dive with Beth Johnson

Step inside the fascinating world of historic preservation with Beth Johnson, Executive Director of Cincinnati Preservation. In this engaging conversation, Beth reveals how her organization serves as the champion and educational resource for preserving the architectural treasures of Greater Cincinnati. From the technical aspects of window restoration to the artistry of historic mortars, this episode uncovers the passionate community dedicated to maintaining our region's unique architectural heritage.

With nearly two decades in preservation work, Beth shares insider stories of exploring Music Hall's attic and Union Terminal's roof while explaining the critical difference between National Register designation and local historic protection. Her enthusiasm is contagious as she describes the resources available to homeowners tackling restoration projects.

Whether you're a homeowner of a historic property, a preservation enthusiast, or simply appreciate Cincinnati's architectural heritage, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining our region's unique character. Tune in to discover how you can be part of preserving the stories embedded in our historic buildings for generations to come.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**Step into the Home Improvement Arena with Gary Sullivan**

The gardening season may be winding down, but as landscaping expert Ron Wilson reveals, the work never truly stops. In this engaging episode, Gary and Ron dive into the surprising year-round demands of the gardening world, debunk common Christmas tree myths, and share practical solutions for those tricky home improvement challenges. From the early rush on Christmas trees to the truth about those viral praying mantis stories, this conversation offers both seasonal wisdom and hands-on advice for your everyday home projects.

Gary delivers expert guidance on removing stubborn caulking and properly mounting handrails on plaster walls, providing the kind of practical tips that can save you hours of frustration. Their candid banter and professional insights create the perfect blend of entertainment and education for any homeowner.

**Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**
- 0:00-2:30: Christmas tree shopping trends and why you should buy early this year
- 2:30-4:15: Debunking the praying mantis Christmas tree myth
- 4:15-6:45: Solutions for unstable Christmas trees and pink countertop alternatives
- 6:45-9:30: Expert techniques for removing stubborn caulking
- 9:30-12:00: Proper mounting of handrails on plaster walls using toggle bolts

Whether you're tackling holiday decorating or planning your next home improvement project, tune in to hear Gary and Ron's practical wisdom that will help you work "like a pro" without busting your knuckles in the process!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.