In this episode:
Landscape expert Jenn Nawada shares her love and knowledge of hydrangeas. After explaining how these bushy, bright flowering plants’ hardiness and versatility can work in almost any landscape, she examines the different types of hydrangeas available while visiting a local nursery.
After gushing over the different types of hydrangeas, when they flower, and how to prune them, we meet Jenn and host Kevin O’Connor back at the shop for some hands-on advice and troubleshooting. Jenn explains that some hydrangeas might struggle to produce blooms and what homeowners can do.
Next, we meet paint expert Mauro Henrique as he helps a homeowner restore their beautiful backyard deck railings. After the homeowner explains that her deck is splintering, Mauro shows her how to prepare the deck for stain. The two tape off the cable railings and place tape around the composite decking before getting to work.
Mauro shows the homeowner how to sand the railings using a random orbital sander and a sanding pad. Then, he explains how to mix wood filler with sanding dust for a perfect match. Finally, Mauro and the homeowner apply stain to the handrails to breathe new life into the old deck.
Finally, we meet master electrician Heath Eastman at the shop as he shows Kevin everything he needs to know about smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The two discuss the different types of smoke detectors available and how they operate and interconnect. Then, Heath shows Kevin the difference between a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector, highlighting the importance of having both in a home.
Heath also teaches Kevin about smart-enabled smoke detectors and how they work and 10-year smoke detectors. He explains how these devices work, how long they last, and when they may or may not be allowed (and who to ask!).
Everything to Know About Hydrangeas
Jenn Nawada shares about the many varieties of hydrangeas and the best ways to care for them.
Where to find it?
Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Stonegate Gardens.
How to Refinish Deck Railings
Paint expert Mauro Henrique shows a homeowner how to breathe new life into those old, splintery handrails.
Where to find it?
To check for rot, Mauro used a 5 in 1 painter’s tool from Hyde Tools to tap the bases and corners of the deck railing. To prep the deck railings, Mauro used Green Frog painters tape to cover the rail wires. To vacuum up the dust from sanding the railings, Mauro used the Festool CT 15 E HEPA dust extractor.
The penetration oil Mauro used on the deck railing was the Penofin penetration Brazilian rosewood oil finish for hardwood transparent natural finish.
All other tools used, including painters plastic, sanding sponges, and 2 1/2 inch synthetic angled flat brush can be found at local home centers.
Understanding Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Master electrician Heath Eastman teaches host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about these fire safety devices.
Original Air Date: May 12, 2022, Season 20; Ep. 29 23:42
