Handyman Pros Radio Show

In this episode the Handyman Pros review an article on new information on Gen Z shifting away from traditional college education and moving towards the trades.  Some very interesting cultural and political points are discussed.    Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handyman prosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Did you know that you could order a home from the Sears and Roebuck catalog?  These homes are more common than you realize, we are having a discussion.   Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

In this episode the Handyman Pros give you 10 awesome tips to help you get your home ready for winter.  Winterizing your home is essential for protecting it from cold weather and saving on energy costs. Here are some tips for preparing your home for winter: 1. Seal Gaps and Cracks       Windows and Doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealant to fill any gaps.     Attic and Basement: Insulate cracks in your attic and basement where cold air can enter.     Outlet Insulation: Place insulation pads behind electrical outlets and light switches to prevent heat loss.   2. Check and Service Heating Systems       Furnace Maintenance: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional. Replace the furnace filter to ensure optimal efficiency.     Chimney Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, clean your chimney to avoid fire hazards and improve heating efficiency.     Thermostat: Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to better control your home's temperature.   3. Insulate and Protect Pipes       Pipe Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces to prevent freezing.     Drip Faucets: In extreme cold, let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.     Shut Off Exterior Faucets: Drain and shut off water supply to outdoor faucets and hoses to prevent freezing.   4. Inspect the Roof and Gutters       Roof Leaks: Check for any damaged shingles or roof leaks, as they can lead to costly repairs during heavy snow or rain.     Clean Gutters: Clear out debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams, which can cause water to leak into your home.   5. Insulate the Attic       Add Insulation: Increase attic insulation to keep heat from escaping through the roof. Proper insulation can save on heating costs.     Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ice dams.   6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors       Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially when using fireplaces or space heaters.   7. Check Windows and Curtains       Install Storm Windows: Use storm windows or plastic window insulation kits to add an extra layer of protection against the cold.     Heavy Curtains: Hang insulated or heavy curtains to block drafts and retain heat.   8. Inspect the Fireplace       Flue Inspection: Make sure the chimney flue is properly functioning and free of obstructions.     Fireplace Tools: Have fireplace tools, kindling, and firewood ready for use.   9. Reverse Ceiling Fans       Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to push warm air down into the room. Fans should rotate clockwise during winter.   10. Prepare for Snow and Ice       Snow Removal Tools: Stock up on snow shovels, de-icer, and sand for walkways.     Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, food, and flashlights in case of power outages.   Winterizing your home helps avoid costly repairs and ensures you stay comfortable throughout the cold season.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

John just completed his own stair remodeling project.  We thought we would have a discussion about redoing your stairs. NOTE: You might want to visit our YouTube site for the pictures.   Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Think you have mold in your home?  This episode will help you identify mold, the potential hazards, and how to prevent and remove mold in from your home   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

A planer is a woodworking tool used to smooth and flatten wooden surfaces, ensuring consistent thickness throughout a board. It's commonly used for: 1.           Flattening rough surfaces: A planer shaves off thin layers of wood to create an even surface. 2.           Adjusting thickness: It helps in reducing the thickness of a board to a desired measurement. 3.           Smoothing wood grain: Planers can improve the texture of the wood, making it easier to finish with paint or varnish. Planers come in both hand-held and machine versions, with the latter being more efficient for large woodworking projects. •             Full size 3-1/4 in. cut width •             Includes: (2) Reversible Double-Edged Blades and Dust Bag •             Automatic Kickstand Prevents Marring of Work Piece The Ryobi One+ 18-Volt hand planer has an incredible 3 in 1/4 in. cut width and up to 1/16 in. cutting depth per pass. This planer is loaded with great features such as its automatic kickstand, which helps prevent you from marring your workpiece and has a convenient on-board blade wrench storage. The dual left or right chip exhaust also gives you the freedom to choose what you are most comfortable with.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Developing a business referral mindset is about cultivating relationships and a reputation that encourage others to send business your way. Here are some steps to help foster this mindset: 1. Focus on Building Genuine Relationships •             Cultivate trust and rapport with customers, peers, and other business owners. •             Understand that referrals often come from people who genuinely like and trust you. 2. Deliver Outstanding Service •             Exceed expectations in your interactions with clients and partners. •             Happy clients are more likely to refer others because they feel confident in the quality of your service. 3. Be Proactive in Asking for Referrals •             Make it part of your routine to ask satisfied clients for referrals. •             Phrase your request in a way that emphasizes the value you'd provide to the referred person, e.g., "If you know anyone who could benefit from my services, I'd be happy to help them out." 4. Offer Referrals to Others •             Give referrals to other businesses or professionals when appropriate. •             This demonstrates your willingness to help others succeed and builds reciprocity. 5. Stay Connected •             Stay in touch with past clients, prospects, and referral partners. •             Regular communication, such as sending updates or checking in, keeps you top of mind. 6. Network Strategically •             Join professional organizations or attend industry events where you can build relationships with potential referral partners. •             Look for opportunities to form mutually beneficial alliances. 7. Create a Referral Program •             Offer incentives or rewards for clients or partners who refer new business to you. •             Make the process simple and clear to encourage participation. 8. Be Authentic and Ethical •             Ensure your referral system is based on genuine value, not just a transaction. •             Maintaining integrity is key for long-term success in generating referrals. 9. Educate Your Network •             Make sure people know what you do and who your ideal clients are so they can refer the right people to you. •             Share your success stories and case studies to highlight how your work benefits others. 10. Express Gratitude •             When someone refers business to you, acknowledge and thank them, whether it's a personalized note, a call, or a small gesture of appreciation.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com

Thinking of putting up a fence, installing a shed, seeding your lawn?  Many home improvement projects require knowing where your property lines are (sometimes exactly).    Knowing where your property lines are before undertaking many projects will help protect your property rights and reduce disputes with neighbors.   To find your property lines, you have several options: 1. Check Your Deed or Survey •             Deed: Your property deed often includes a legal description of your property, which defines its boundaries. It might describe the property in relation to landmarks or coordinates. •             Survey: If you have a property survey, it provides precise measurements and a detailed map of your property lines. You might have received this document when you purchased the property. 2. Look for Physical Markers •             Property Markers: Surveyors often place iron pins or concrete markers at the corners of your property. You can locate these markers with a metal detector or by measuring distances from known landmarks (like roads or utility poles) as described in your deed. 3. Visit Your Local Government Office •             County Assessor or Recorder's Office: You can obtain property maps, records, and sometimes surveys from the local county office. Many counties offer access to online Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which allow you to view property boundaries. 4. Use an Online GIS Mapping Tool •             County GIS: Many counties provide online tools that allow you to view property lines on a map. Most GIS system that lets you search by address and view property boundaries. 5. Hire a Professional Surveyor •             If you need precise property lines for legal purposes or construction, hiring a professional surveyor is the most accurate method. They will use equipment and official records to mark your property boundaries.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

Here are five tips for buying real estate: 1.           Inspect Thoroughly: Before making an offer, conduct a thorough inspection of the property. This includes structural elements, plumbing, electrical systems, and any potential issues that could affect the value or safety of the home. 2.           Research the Market: Drive the Neighborhood.  Understand the current market conditions in the area where you want to buy. Look at trends in property values, average selling prices, and the overall economic outlook. 3.           Local Governmental Issues: Check local codes, districts, and public services.  Are you potentially in any special district (historic, etc).  Are the public services reasonable in cost (don’t assume)?   Electricity, water, gas, check them out. 4.           Other Legal Issues: Easements and contractual arrangements 5.           Consider Future Resale: Even if you plan to live in the home long-term, think about its resale potential. Factors like location, neighborhood amenities, and the condition of the property can impact its value over time. These tips can help you navigate the real estate market more effectively and make informed decisions when buying a property. Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.

In this episode the Handyman Pros have a discussion and dispel some common beliefs about Home Improvement.   Watch us on YouTube (click here) Subscribe to our free newsletter, https://handymanprosradioshow.com/newsletter-signup/ Join our Facebook group @handyman pros Send us an email, questions@handymanprosradioshow.com.