How to make your home run itself from your phone—simple automations you can set up in minutes, even if you’re not techy. Comedian Tig Notaro opens the door to her family’s Gulf Coast home and the love, loss, and resilience held in its walls. And Cheap Old Houses returns with real listings under $50K—and honest advice on what it really takes to fix them up.

On This Episode You Will Learn
*How to tell if you should repair your roof or replace it. (7:27)
*Why painting a driveway is tricky and what to do if the paint is peeling. (15:04)
*How to keep new floors dry on a concrete slab. (20:45)
*How to tell if a wall crack is just cosmetic or a sign of a bigger problem. (26:08)

All of this, plus we’re answering your home improvement questions at 877-This Old House Radio Hour! — That’s (877) 864-7460.

This week on This Old House Radio Hour, we’re breaking down home and renter’s insurance—what you really need, what’s worth skipping, and how to keep premiums affordable without leaving gaps. New York Times Bestselling author and National Book Award nominee Rachel Kushner shares the lessons she learned growing up in a small Oregon bungalow, where creativity mattered more than square footage. And we’ll help you choose the right bathroom exhaust fan so your walls stay dry, your air stays fresh, and your mornings stay quiet.

On This Episode You Will Learn:

* How to keep pigeons off your roof safely and effectively. (9:41)
* How to know when it’s time to call in a pro versus trying it yourself. (11:09)
* How to make cold floors feel warmer without major renovations. (14:56)
* How to seal up drafty old windows and save on energy bills. (21:05)
* How to repaint peeling trim the right way without stripping lead paint. (26:52)

All of this, plus we’re answering your home improvement questions at 877-This Old House Radio Hour! — That’s (877) 864-7460.

Best-selling author Gretchen Rubin shares simple, free ways to make your home feel happier and more organized. Henry Rollins reflects on DC row houses, Ian MacKaye’s attic, and how the punk scene shaped his sense of home. Plus, Cheap Old Houses highlights two historic homes under $30,000, and our experts take listener questions on real home repairs.

What you’ll learn:

*The right tools to remove old staples and nails from hardwood floors. (7:34)
*How to track your home’s energy use and spot problems early. (14:16)
*How to protect your belongings and hire a contractor for basement repairs. (20:24)
*The best way to clean white residue off brick and masonry. (27:24)
*What to check before buying a fixer-upper on a tight budget. (40:14)

All of this, plus we’re answering your home improvement questions at 877-This Old House Radio Hour! — That’s (877) 864-7460.