# Weekend at Home with Gary Sullivan: Mastering Home Maintenance

Are your home drains getting the attention they deserve? In this eye-opening episode, Gary Selvin 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!

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**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 episode 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!

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Your questions with the guy who is all about is easy.  We also talk to Beth Johnson from Cincinnati Preservation.  

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# 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.

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**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!

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**Unveiling the Concrete Secrets: Transforming Your Home's Hardscapes**

Is your concrete driveway showing signs of wear? Are oil stains and cracks making your garage floor an eyesore? Host Gary Sullivan dives deep into concrete restoration, offering practical solutions for homeowners looking to tackle these common problems before winter arrives. From liquid crack sealers to specialized oil stain removers, this episode reveals professional-grade techniques that can transform your concrete surfaces without breaking the bank.

The conversation doesn't stop at concrete repair. Gary explores how to reclaim and organize your garage space, turning what's often the most neglected area of the home into a functional, attractive entry point. With special guest Paul Abrams from Roto-Rooter, the episode also covers essential fall plumbing maintenance to prevent costly winter disasters.

**Timestamps:**
04:15 - Concrete surface repair options for cracks and spalling
10:30 - Oil stain removal techniques for garage floors
18:45 - Garage floor coating options and organization solutions
27:20 - Fall plumbing maintenance with Paul Abrams
32:40 - Preventing frozen pipes and identifying vulnerable areas
38:15 - DIY drain maintenance tips
41:30 - Preparing plumbing for holiday gatherings

Whether you're looking to tackle that eyesore of a driveway or protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures, this episode delivers actionable advice from trusted experts. Don't let another weekend pass without addressing these essential home maintenance tasks that could save you thousands in repairs later!

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**Unmasking the Secrets of Home Improvement with Gary Sullivan**

Ever wondered what really goes into refinishing hardwood floors or tackling those mysterious home issues? This episode of "At Home with Gary Sullivan" dives deep into the DIY dilemmas that homeowners face every day, offering expert guidance that balances professional standards with practical reality.

Gary fields calls from homeowners struggling with everything from refinishing red oak floors to testing for asbestos and mold. With his trademark blend of technical knowledge and real-world experience, he helps listeners understand when to tackle projects themselves and when to call in the professionals.

**Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**

12:05 - Refinishing hardwood floors: The difference between drum sanders vs. orbital sanders and when to use each
18:30 - Asbestos testing options and when remediation is necessary
25:40 - Professional mold testing vs. DIY kits and the "10 square foot rule"
32:15 - Repairing damaged particle board furniture with wood hardeners and epoxy
41:20 - Gas fireplace maintenance and proper log stacking to prevent soot buildup

The conversation about wood refinishing particularly stands out, as Gary walks through the different approaches to bringing floors back to life without compromising their integrity. His explanation of "refreshing" versus completely refinishing offers hope to DIYers intimidated by drum sanders.

Ready to tackle your own home improvement challenges? Listen now for practical solutions that could save you thousands while giving you the confidence to maintain your biggest investment.

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# Home Improvement Wisdom: Protecting Your Space with Gary Sullivan

Are your DIY projects leaving you stumped? Gary Sullivan delivers practical advice for homeowners looking to maintain and upgrade their spaces without breaking the bank. From sealing grout to installing washing machines, this episode tackles real problems with straightforward solutions that will save you time, money, and frustration.

Gary shares insider knowledge on protecting your gutters from clogging with Gutter Brush's annual fall sale, discusses the psychology of bedroom paint colors, and provides essential safety tips for holiday decorating. Whether you're dealing with sliding door repairs or wondering how to properly clean granite countertops, this episode offers expert guidance for projects of all sizes.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**8:45** - Grout sealing basics: Different sealers last from 2-15 years, and even sealed grout allows about 1% water penetration
**12:30** - Installing heavy washing machines: How to properly anchor commercial machines to concrete floors
**21:15** - Best bedroom paint colors discussion: Earthy greens promote relaxation while black may be too intimidating
**35:20** - Holiday decorating safety: Ladder precautions, proper light installation, and protecting extension cords from wildlife

Don't miss Gary's warning about ridge vents becoming entry points for wildlife and his recommendations for pH-balanced cleaners that won't damage expensive countertops. Subscribe now to ensure you never miss these valuable home improvement insights that could save you thousands in costly repairs!

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# Preparing Your Home for Winter: Essential Maintenance Tips

Are your windows fogging up and your home feeling uncomfortably dry? As temperatures drop, maintaining proper humidity levels becomes crucial for both comfort and home health.

Gary Sullivan shares practical wisdom about winter home maintenance in this informative episode. From managing indoor humidity levels to proper firewood storage and garage door maintenance, this conversation covers everything homeowners need to know as cold weather approaches. Whether you're dealing with foundation concerns, stained concrete, or preparing your plumbing for freezing temperatures, Gary offers expert advice to keep your home comfortable and protected all season long.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:

**7:15** - Indoor humidity management: Why maintaining 35% humidity when temperatures drop below freezing is essential for comfort

**12:30** - Firewood storage tips: Why keeping firewood away from your house (and never in your garage) prevents pest problems

**15:45** - Foundation concerns: When to address settling issues and how to evaluate urgency

**33:30** - Garage door maintenance: Complete guide to lubricating tracks, rollers and hinges properly

**43:15** - Removing leaf stains from concrete patios: Effective cleaning methods and sealing recommendations

**51:30** - Roofing decisions: Why choosing the right roofer matters more than specific shingle brands

Proper winter preparation doesn't just make your home more comfortable—it prevents costly damage and extends the life of your home's systems. As Gary reminds us, sometimes the best approach is working with trusted professionals who understand local conditions.

Ready to tackle your winter home maintenance checklist? Listen now for expert guidance that will keep your home protected all season long.

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