Putting a laser focus on home improvement (Full Show: 9/13/2025)

September 13, 2025·1 hr 9 min·5 clips

Paul Lagrange admits he sets his thermostat to 69 degrees at night without condensation problems.

This solo episode of The Home Improvement Show is hosted by Paul, a home performance and inspection expert covering the Gulf South region. Paul fields live calls and texts from listeners seeking advice on various home improvement and maintenance projects. The episode focuses on practical solutions for common household issues, with a particular emphasis on air conditioning performance and indoor air quality. Paul details a recent inspection where a home had organic growth on supply registers and moisture-stained sheetrock due to condensation from ductwork in a hot attic. He explains that condensation problems can stem from duct leaks, poor insulation, attic ventilation issues, or the dew point temperature in the attic. Paul contrasts using single-speed AC equipment with a supplemental dehumidifier versus high-end inverter technology, noting inverter systems work best when equipment is inside conditioned space. A listener asks about the cost comparison between a pressure-treated wood fence and a metal fence, with Paul noting wood is cheaper initially but metal lasts longer. Another listener reports a 30% increase in their electric bill, which Paul attributes to rising natural gas prices. Paul shares that his own August electric bill was $368 for his 2,478 sq ft home and a 700 sq ft attached office, citing his home's energy-efficient design. He reveals he sets his thermostat to 69°F at night without condensation issues due to his home's specific construction with controlled moisture and no duct leaks. A text question involves building an addition where tree roots were removed, and Paul strongly advises excavating all root remnants and soil to prevent future voids and sinking. Caller Chuck describes a bedroom on a west-facing brick wall that becomes unbearably hot in the evening despite the house being from 2001. Paul diagnoses this as likely an airflow problem and suggests adjusting supply duct dampers to get more air to that room. Caller John is concerned about indoor air quality, noting mold on a PVC drain line in his spray-foamed attic. Paul outlines a multifaceted approach to indoor air quality, stressing control of temperature, humidity, filtration, and source control over simply adding an air scrubber. He recommends John get indoor air quality testing performed. Caller Rob complains of a loud hum after a blower motor replacement, and Paul lists potential causes like motor speed, mounting, vibration, or an undersized return air intake. Caller Sylvia, with a 1967 brick home, asks for advice on replacing windows and attic insulation. Paul states she will get a better return on investment by addressing attic insulation before windows. He explains key window performance metrics: a low solar heat gain coefficient (like 0.35 or lower) and a low U-value (like 0.40 or lower). Paul recommends windows with insulated fiberglass frames and low-E glass. He expresses concern over standard window installation methods that rely only on caulk, emphasizing the need for proper flashings to prevent water intrusion and endorsing a specific installer, Chris Jenkins of Jenkins Windows and Doors. The most interesting insight is Paul's revelation that he personally sets his thermostat to a very cool 69°F at night, which contradicts common advice to avoid condensation, but he attributes this to his home's specific design that mitigates moisture risks. His detailed breakdown of indoor air quality shifts focus from marketed gadgets to fundamental controls over humidity, filtration, and source materials. The technical explanation of window performance metrics provides listeners with specific, actionable numbers to use when shopping. Paul's strong caution against simply caulking new windows into brick openings highlights a common but flawed industry practice. The episode underscores that solving home performance issues often requires a systemic, multi-faceted approach rather than a single product or fix. The tone is highly conversational, educational, and advisory, with Paul acting as a knowledgeable coach walking listeners through their problems. The style is interactive and responsive, driven entirely by listener questions, with Paul offering detailed, technical explanations in plain language. Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts in the Gulf South region, particularly those dealing with humidity, air conditioning, or renovation projects, would find this episode immensely valuable. Listeners interested in energy efficiency, building science, and preventative maintenance would appreciate the detailed explanations. Those seeking quick, simplistic tips or entertainment-focused content might find the episode too technical or niche.

As heard by us

Solo home-improvement talk with practical guidance on humidity, filtration, and roof choices.

This episode is a solo home-improvement call-in hour, with the host noting that his co-host is traveling and opening the floor to questions on everything from real estate to projects at condos and a fishing camp.

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Why you'd press play

You need straight answers on humidity, filtration, and roof decisions.

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