Simple Solutions

Recip-Saw Tree Trimming – Next time you need to trim a tree branch, try using a reciprocating saw fitted with a pruning blade. The aggressive-cutting blade is about 9 in. long and has only five teeth per inch to quickly slice through branches.

Paint Can Tip – When you bring home a new gallon of freshly shaken paint immediately remove and clean the underside of the lid of all paint. Then, stir—don’t shake—the paint before applying it. And when you’re done painting, place wax paper or plastic wrap over can before tapping on the lid. That will seal out air, free the can of crusty bits of dried paint, and keep the underside of the lid clean.

Best New Product

It’s amazing how many of our devices use a USB port to charge. Did you know that all USB-powered devices have their own requirements to charge effectively and efficiently? That’s a problem if you’re charging a device without the right power source because it can damage your battery over time.

Leviton’s USB Charger / Tamper-Resistant Outlet has a smart chip that automatically recognizes and optimizes the charging power of your electronic devices for fast and efficient charging. That’s important because getting that amperage right is also important to the longevity of the batteries in those devices. The USB Ports in the outlets are positioned to give you plenty of room to maneuver charging cords while keeping three prong outlets free for other uses. If you want to eliminate clutter above counters or near desktops this is a great solution.

You can purchase this product at The Home Depot.

Hour 1

Dave in MI
I am replacing weathered boards on a deck that was built on top of a concrete slab. There appears to be a smooth top coat of concrete that is flaking off in places, and the coarser concrete underneath is starting to crumble, especially along some of the outer edges. Once I clean up the concrete is there a sealer I can put on the concrete that will mitigate further deterioration. This will have to be a one-shot deal since I will be covering it again with treated deck boards.

Doug in LA
I am rerouting my double wall gas vent pipe (3″ size) from the roof (2 story house). I will take a 90-degree turn from the top of the water heater, run parallel to the wall and go through the sheetrock and external brick, then 90 up with a cap to finish. How do I cut a hole in the brick for the 3″ gas pipe?

WATCH: How to cut tile or brick with a wet saw

Hour 2

Joe in IL
I recently replaced a toilet that was in a bathroom with vinyl flooring. The new toilet has a smaller base than the original so now there is a visible dark stain on the vinyl flooring around the new toilet. I have tried Clorox and other cleaners to no avail. Any ideas how to get the stain out?
Betty in WV
I have a bubble in my veneer kitchen cupboard door. How can I repair it?

Linda in AL
I saw the show where you were cleaning and polishing a cultured marble bathroom countertop. I was hoping you might have a recommendation on how to revitalize a dulled and scratched 15-year-old Corian kitchen countertop, without having to hire a professional.

Jenny in VA
I live in an 80-year-old brick house. The bricks are in really good shape, but some are discolored from dirt and green stuff. I’m a little afraid to use a power washer because I don’t want to damage the bricks. I’m also considering a cleaner that connects to a garden hose. What method and cleaner do you suggest?


Danny Lipford is among the country’s most sought-after home improvement experts.
The seasoned remodeling contractor and media personality served as the home improvement expert for CBS’s “The Early Show” and The Weather Channel for over a decade and has made more than 180 national television appearances on “Fox & Friends,” “Inside Edition,” “Morning Express with Robin Meade,” Fox Business Channel, Rachael Ray and more.
He travels the country making appearances as a brand ambassador and spokesperson, and each year contributes expertise to hundreds of popular magazines and online media outlets.


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Editorial Contributors
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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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