The Carolina Contractor Show: Recent Episodes

Donnie Blanchard

We cover everything from the roof to the basement. Our listeners interact by submitting questions at www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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$400,000 used to buy a forever house. Now it’s starting to get labeled a “starter home,” and that shift is messing with first-time buyers across North Carolina and beyond. We get into the real reasons the entry-level market feels like it’s vanishing: higher interest rates, tight inventory near jobs, and a cost per square foot that doesn’t care how badly you want to keep your commute short. We also challenge a quiet assumption that’s baked into a lot of frustration, the idea that a dream home has to be 2,400 square feet when past generations made 1,500 square feet work just fine.

From there, we walk through the budget killers people don’t see coming until it’s too late. We talk surprise municipal costs like sewer tap fees and the “green light to break ground” money that hits before the slab is even poured. We also break down one of the biggest line items in a build: windows. Premium brands can push a package into the tens of thousands, so we compare vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum-clad options, explain what energy code already requires, and why the right installer can protect performance and warranty.

Then we shift to the choices that look great on paper but punish you in labor, materials, and leak risk, especially complex rooflines, dormers, and steep pitches. We wrap with the moves that actually help: tighter floor plans, fewer unused rooms, bigger pantries, and outdoor living spaces that expand how you live without ballooning interior square footage. If you’re trying to buy or build a practical home without feeling boxed in, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share it with a first-time buyer, and leave us a review with the one feature you refuse to give up.

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A windstorm can be a nothing-burger for one house and a total mess for the next. We open with a real North Carolina damage story where a single tree managed to split a carport and detached garage almost perfectly, then use it to get practical about what homeowners should do before and after severe weather. Our goal is simple: help you spot roof damage early, avoid unsafe shortcuts, and make better decisions about repairs versus replacement.

We walk through an easy pre-storm habit that can save you real money later: take date-stamped photos of all four sides of your home. Those baseline shots make it much easier to prove what changed after wind or hail and to avoid the “was that already there?” argument. From there, we dig into roof inspections, attic warning signs, and why it’s worth having a qualified roofing contractor document what’s happening up top, especially when you’re thinking about a homeowners insurance claim.

Then we get honest about the insurance side of roofing: storm chasers, manufactured damage, why claim history matters, how deductibles should guide your decision, and how depreciation and recoverable depreciation typically work. We also shift into materials and craftsmanship, including shingle brand comparisons, what modern roof warranties really mean, and how installer details like starter strips, ridge caps, pipe boots, and valley protection can decide how long your roof lasts. If you’re choosing GAF shingles, comparing CertainTeed and Owens Corning, or just trying to pick the right shingle color, you’ll leave with better questions to ask and fewer regrets later.

If this helped, subscribe, share the show with a homeowner friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find practical roofing advice when the next storm rolls through.

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Spray foam insulation sounds straightforward until you hear the questions homeowners and inspectors actually ask: Can it trap moisture and hide rot? Why did some historic buildings overseas push back on it? Is open cell spray foam safer for older structures than closed cell? We get into the details with Rich Brown of Prime Energy Group and focus on what matters in the field, not just on paper: drying potential, leak detection, and how your insulation choice can protect or punish the materials inside your walls and roof.

We also talk about the everyday homeowner side of the job, including how to prep an attic so installers can properly cover the roof deck, why spray angle and access matter, and what changes when you turn a vented attic into a sealed attic. That leads into the questions around fire ratings and why “no storage” rules often come down to how an attic could be used, not whether foam is automatically dangerous. Rich shares how open cell foam behaves under direct flame, how tested attic configurations manage pressure, and a striking real-world story where foam helped prevent a lightning-related fire from turning catastrophic.

Then we zoom out to comfort and livability: why spraying the roofline can keep HVAC equipment out of 140-degree attic heat, how pull-down stairs can become a major air leakage weak point, and what spray foam can and cannot do for sound control. From homes under flight paths to busy roads and shared interior walls, we cover strategies that produce quieter results in the real world. If you found value here, subscribe, share this with a homeowner or builder, and leave a review with your biggest insulation or comfort question for a future show.

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Think a few bright cans from the home store can turn your attic into an energy fortress? We’ve seen the memes and the mishaps, so we brought in Rich Brown from Prime Energy Group to lay out the real story on spray foam—what it is, where it shines, and why the installer matters as much as the material. From the first pass of the spray gun to the final trim before drywall, we unpack what separates a reliable air-sealed envelope from an expensive mess.

We start by demystifying open cell and closed cell polyurethane foams. Rich explains how open cell’s rapid expansion and soft, breathable structure conforms without shoving pipes or bowing window frames, while closed cell’s dense, higher R-value per inch brings muscle for tight spots but needs careful placement. Then we tackle the big myth: that canned foam can insulate a whole wall. Between unpredictable expansion, moisture traps over fiberglass, and certification gaps for large residential coverage, DIY approaches often cost more and deliver less. Rich shares jaw-dropping numbers from homeowners who spent thousands on kits only to cover a fraction of the area a pro crew could handle for less.

Performance and payback take center stage. When insulation doubles as an air barrier, conductive, convective, and radiant heat flows are all slowed, rooms over garages stop baking, and drafts disappear. That tighter envelope lets you right-size HVAC—moving from the old 600 square feet per ton rule toward 900–1,000—shrinking upfront equipment costs and slashing monthly bills by 30–50 percent. We also cover installation timelines, why dual-gun rigs speed complex jobs, and how foam can reduce or eliminate costly framing tweaks common with fiberglass, flipping the math for production and custom builders alike.

Durability and safety round it out. Expect lifetime-of-structure warranties with transferability, stable performance years later, and a clear 24-hour reentry window guided by the American Chemistry Council to keep indoor air quality pristine after cure. If you’ve ever wrestled a stuck window from high-expansion foam, wondered whether spray foam harms wiring, or questioned how long it lasts, this conversation gives straight answers and practical guardrails. Subscribe, share with a friend who’s planning a build or renovation, and drop your toughest insulation question so we can tackle it in part two.

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The headlines shout that AI is coming for every job...We’ve been hearing the same siren all year, so we sat down and mapped the real fault line between work that moves data and work that moves atoms. From roofing valleys and LVL cut strategies to drone surveys and one-click renderings, we break down what actually changes on site—and what still needs a skilled human to adapt when the plan meets the weather.

We start with the fear and the flashy predictions, then test them against field reality. Estimating and rendering are already transforming: a window schedule can become a clean order in seconds, and a drone shot plus a smart prompt can show a client a near-final exterior before the roof is sheathed. That’s leverage for builders, not a pink slip. Meanwhile, the trades that live on ladders, in crawlspaces, and under eaves remain stubbornly resistant to automation. A demo bot can lay shingles on a clean patch; it can’t climb, handle a dormer, or fix a tricky valley while checking flashing and safety. Judgment, improvisation, and accountability still belong to people.

We also share practical wins that anyone can copy. Feed your estimating sheet to a smart tool and tighten formulas you’ve trusted for years. Use AI to minimize waste on 48-foot LVLs with real inventory constraints. Pair drones with mapping to compress weeks of surveying into minutes, then walk the land to confirm blind spots under trees. And if you’re early in your career, stack trade certifications with AI fluency—be the person who turns messy inputs into clear decisions. That’s how you stay valuable no matter how fast the software moves.

Want more like this? Subscribe, share the show with a friend in the trades, and leave a quick review so others can find us. Then tell us: what job on your site would you never trust to a bot?

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Housing feels like a moving target right now, and we’re putting the bullseye back in view. Donnie and Eric unpack why first-time buyers are squeezed, how material costs and mill closures ripple through pricing, and where a rent-to-own model might open real doors to ownership without a $50,000 down payment. We move from the jobsite to policy and back again, breaking down what’s changing, what isn’t, and what has to shift to make starter homes a reality again.

We start with the nuts and bolts: lumber futures are climbing into peak building season, domestic mills are shuttering, and tariffs complicate imports. That strain shows up in framing packages, bid volatility, and ultimately listing prices. Then we zoom out to the core math—median home price versus median household income now exceeds 7x in many markets, devouring affordability even before interest rates enter the chat. The three levers we keep coming back to are simple but non‑negotiable: deregulation to shorten permitting and inspections, steady construction costs to keep budgets sane, and lower rates to restore buying power.

From there, we dive into a scaled rent-to-own concept for entry-level single-family homes in the $250–$350k range. Here’s the structure: builders complete homes, investors purchase in bulk, and qualified tenants sign three-year leases with 20–40% of each payment credited toward a future down payment at a pre-agreed purchase price. Pros include forced savings, price certainty, and the chance to learn a house before buying. Risks include screening failures that erase credits, bureaucratic delays, and the need to push builds beyond big-city cores into rural areas where land and infrastructure make the math work. We also talk guardrails—limiting institutional buyers that outbid families—and why “local level scaling” with vetted small and mid-sized builders can raise quality while adding supply.

Whether you’re a buyer stuck on the sidelines, a builder navigating costs, or a homeowner watching rates, this conversation maps a practical path forward. Subscribe, share with a friend who’s house hunting, and drop your biggest roadblock to ownership—we’ll tackle the best questions on a future show.

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Pool house project, a skid steer after retirement, and more Panthers stories than you’ve ever heard in one place. We sit down with Mick Mixon to trace a remarkable arc—from the broadcast booth to a backyard compound where concrete, retaining walls, and a humming skid steer turned “free time” into craft. Mick opens up about why sports still feel truly unscripted, how different people find common purpose in a huddle, and the quiet ways community shows up when you’re building something that matters.

We dig into the heart of Carolina football: the psychology of leadership in a locker room, the night Kelvin Benjamin went down and the resolve that followed, and what it really felt like to stare down Super Bowl 50 with a horn band waiting in a ballroom that never quite celebrated. Cam Newton becomes an energy study—220 volts of charisma and chaos—raising the big what-ifs about coaching continuity, culture, and how to steward a generational personality. Mick shares vivid snapshots of Luke Kuechly signing every autograph, Christian McCaffrey’s sneaky comedy, and Greg Olsen’s detail-obsessed football brain on a cross-country flight.

It’s not just nostalgia. Mick breaks down Bryce Young’s growth curve—speeding up decisions, protecting himself, and learning to live on time—while we weigh the front office moves that could give a young quarterback a real shot. Between those X’s and O’s, you’ll hear the heartbeat of his retirement: teaching a grandson how to swap a water pump, moving rock until the grade feels right, and discovering that the best wins often happen in the driveway. If you love the Carolina Panthers, NFL leadership, DIY building, or just a good story well told, you’ll find plenty to carry with you.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a Panthers fan, and leave a review with your biggest Carolina what-if—we might read it on air next week.

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Football jokes aside, we pivot hard into a practical, no-nonsense guide to choosing the right roof. Donnie draws on decades of contracting and roofing experience to decode the real trade-offs between asphalt shingles, designer lines, and metal systems, with blunt talk about warranties, wind ratings, and the hidden details that make or break a roof over time.

We walk through why certified, local, licensed, and insured roofers matter far more than a slick quote. You’ll hear how modern architectural shingles can carry 50-year warranties when installed to spec, why three-tabs are fading, and where designer shingles earn their keep with striking curb appeal. We also get tactical about metal: paint systems like Kynar vs cheap coatings, steel versus aluminum near the coast, and how gauge and fastening method change your long-term risk of leaks and hail dents. If you’ve ever wondered whether a white metal roof slashes your power bill, we break down the building science—attic ventilation, radiant barriers, and duct placement do the heavy lifting.

Tile gets a reality check for weight and cost, while mixed-material strategies deliver a smart middle ground: shingle main roofs with metal accents on porches and returns. We round it out with insurance insights you can use today—why notifying your carrier after a new roof can reduce premiums, why some insurers scout roof age ahead of binding coverage, and how documentation protects your wallet. Looking to upgrade? Ask for recent local installs, validate certifications and licensing, and confirm how warranties transfer when you sell.

If you’re planning a roof or just want to be a sharper homeowner, this is your field guide. Subscribe, share with a neighbor comparing bids, and leave a review with your roofing questions—we’ll tackle them on a future show.

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Football brains, builder brains, and a holiday shopping list that actually gets used—this one brings it all together. We open with Phillip Rivers’ headline‑grabbing return, the Panthers’ late‑season spark, and a dash of fantasy playoff chaos, then steer straight into a practical gift guide for homeowners, weekend warriors, and anyone who loves a well‑equipped garage. No fluff, no gimmicks—just the tools and upgrades that save time, money, and headaches.

We break down why cordless tool ecosystems are the best value right now, and which pieces punch above their weight: impact drivers, orbital sanders, trim and framing nailers, and those versatile “everything in a bag” kits with shared batteries. From there, we get into smart home wins like a thermostat you can set and forget, compact air purifiers that help allergy sufferers, and small LED herb gardens that keep fresh basil and mint on hand without grocery markups. Cleaning up? A quality steam cleaner and a reliable wet/dry vac turn spills and shop dust into quick work when you’ve only got minutes to spare.

On the road and on the job site, we talk real preparedness: a “dad emergency kit” with a multi‑tool that can break glass and cut seatbelts, a bright lantern‑style flashlight, a proper floor jack, first aid supplies, and jumper solutions that don’t require a second car. We compare inverter generators to traditional units—quieter, more efficient, and friendly for tailgates and camping—and spotlight trickle chargers and solar maintainers that keep seasonal batteries alive. For grill lovers, think organized caddies, bold rubs, and wireless thermometers that save your turkey when you switch from electric to charcoal. And if cozy nights are your thing, rechargeable hand warmers, heated insoles, and a smokeless‑style fire pit can extend patio season, with quick tips for safe use on decks.

Ready to shop smarter and gift like a pro? Tap play, grab the full list, and send us your house questions at thecarolinacontractor.com. If this helped you pick a winner, share it with a friend and leave a quick review so more DIYers can find the show.

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The conversation starts with sweet potatoes and grandma-level stuffing, then pivots to the question stirring up homebuyers everywhere: would a 50-year mortgage help or hurt? We share the real math behind lower monthly payments, how amortization changes over ultra-long terms, and why equity can lag for years unless you get proactive. From belt-loop victories to kitchen-table budgets, we pull the debate out of theory and into real life.

We unpack who actually benefits from a longer term, how lenders will likely price risk, and why the lifetime cost may dwarf the short-term relief. You’ll hear clear strategies to make a long loan work in your favor: automate extra principal, aim for one extra payment a year, set refinance trigger points, and treat appreciation as a bonus, not a guarantee. We also tackle the costs no one can ignore—property taxes and insurance—and how they can erase your perceived savings even if your rate looks decent on paper.

There’s fresh context on 2025 credit changes, including how medical debt is treated and why nuanced underwriting could help qualified buyers who’ve had a rough patch. We balance the builder’s perspective with the buyer’s anxiety, explore market ripple effects if 50-year loans take hold, and draw a bright line between starter-home strategy and forever-home commitments. If a 50-year term is the only way to get the keys, we outline the plan you need to avoid paying for a lifetime: disciplined overpayments, honest timelines, and a clear exit or refinance strategy.

Ready to pressure-test your plan? Listen now, subscribe for more straight-talk housing insights, and drop your take: is the 50-year mortgage a smart bridge or an expensive habit we’ll regret?

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A chilly room tells a story, and today we decode it with clear, practical advice you can use before your next utility bill arrives. We kick off with a quick nod to football, then dive straight into comfort science: why that “burnt” smell appears when the heat first comes on, how long it should last, and the simple signs that mean it’s time to call a pro. From there, we get hands-on with the fixes that matter most—filters, ducts, insulation, and air sealing—so you can keep more of the warmth you already pay for.

We break down MERV ratings without the jargon and explain why “higher” can backfire in a home system. You’ll learn why cheap filters swapped monthly often outperform pricey options left too long, and how pets and foot traffic downstairs change your replacement schedule. We unpack conductive vs convective heat transfer to show where heat actually escapes, then map out a weekend DIY plan: carefully pop interior casing, add low-expansion foam around doors and windows, and reseat trim for immediate draft control. We also spotlight hidden losses at the air handler, where failed tape and loose ducts send conditioned air into attics and crawl spaces.

Choosing a heat source is easier with context. Modern electric heat pumps maintain comfort efficiently; gas still delivers fast warmups for large or intermittently used spaces; and dual-fuel systems blend both. We share when each shines, plus budget-friendly ways to add targeted warmth with electric fireplaces that move real air and run flame-only for year-round ambiance. Rounding things out, we compare crawl spaces and slabs: site slope, repair access, HVAC placement, and long-term costs that often get overlooked during planning.

Ready to make your home feel better with fewer dollars? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend who’s fighting cold corners, and leave us a quick review with your best winter comfort tip. Your ideas help shape future topics and keep the conversation useful for everyone.

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Bacon might steal the opening, but the real feast here is a tour of where homebuilding is headed—and how to make smarter choices without spending more than you need. We dig into the surprising benefits of building smaller, then show how thoughtful design—10-foot ceilings, full-height storage, and slab-on-grade shop-plus-suite layouts—can turn compact footprints into flexible, livable homes that age with you.

From there we move into resilience. Fortified roofs with better nails, sealed underlayments, and coastal-grade fasteners can cut insurance costs while boosting peace of mind. We compare high-performance panelized shells promising fire, wind, and seismic resistance, and talk honestly about what holds them back: price, manufacturing capacity, and permitting. On the flip side, modular and prefab homes promise speed, but hidden finish work, basic window packages, and transport wear can offset the savings. The smarter play today may be selectively adopting prefab components—like prebuilt dormers—where precision pays off most.

Smart tech finally feels smart. AI room planners let you test paint, floors, and trim in seconds, saving time and mistakes. More importantly, a unified platform like Control4 can run devices from different brands through one brain, ditching a dozen apps for reliable routines. We even wade into emerging health sensors in the bathroom—why proactive insights could help, and when constant data might do more harm than good. Finally, we examine embedded insurance during closing: it’s convenient and can surface coverage gaps early, but independent brokers still win on options, pricing, and bedside manner when claims happen.

If you care about affordability, durability, and sanity, this conversation gives you a blueprint: design only what you’ll use, invest in resilience that pays back, and make your tech work for you—not the other way around. If this helped you think differently about your next build or upgrade, subscribe, share with a friend who’s planning a project, and leave a quick review so more homeowners can find it.

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Sunlight changes everything. We kick off with a real project that turned a dim great room into a bright, open space by swapping a standard door for full glass, adding a 10-by-6 quad window, and installing an 8-by-12 slider with screens for a cross-breeze you can feel. The secret wasn’t just picking pretty glass—it was structural discipline. We brought in an engineer, sized LVLs correctly, and worked to the inch so the spans carried safely and cleanly.

From there, we pull the curtain back on builder grade versus custom grade. “Builder grade” isn’t a dirty word, but it can hide weak links like finger-jointed studs or MDF outside. We share the exact questions to ask about floor lumber grades, shingle brands, and warranties. On roofing, we compare standing seam metal with Kynar or Valspar finishes against exposed fastener panels that fade, and explain why today’s premium shingles deliver serious wind performance and algae protection for less money. Pro tip: never use button-cap fasteners under metal roofing underlayment unless you want the caps to telegraph through the panels.

If you’re hunting older homes, we offer a quick triage: read the foundation, then price the heavy hitters—electrical, HVAC, and insulation. For windows, don’t default to full replacements. Investigate sash swaps, reglazing, or sash kits that preserve frames and cut labor. On HVAC, we decode SEER and explain why the jump from 14 to 21 rarely pays for itself. Your smartest investment is the envelope: spray foam where it counts, diligent air sealing, and right-sized equipment. Mini splits shine in garages and bonus rooms, but only after you insulate.

We also touch on a rumored national housing emergency and what real relief might look like for first-time buyers. If you care about better light, stronger structure, and upgrades that actually return value, this one gives you a roadmap—without the hype. Enjoy the show, explore resources at thecarolinacontractor.com, and hit the Ask The Contractor button with your questions. If you learned something useful, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

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Ready to tackle fall projects without stepping on hidden landmines? We kick off with a hands-on deck build—why we chose two-by-sixes over five-quarter boards, used a camo jig to hide fasteners, and saved big by assembling stainless cable rails from components. Then we widen the lens to what really protects your home: how aluminum rails beat rust at the coast, when PVC makes maintenance easy, and why looks-versus-longevity is the trade you should decide up front.

From there, we dig into the myths that cost homeowners the most in North Carolina. Flood risk isn’t just for the coast—Raleigh and the mountains have real exposure, and flood policies cap out fast. We break down replacement cost versus actual cash value, the 80% insured-to-value rule, and why an annual call with your agent can save you tens of thousands when storms hit. Termites aren’t covered by standard policies, slab homes get chewed more often, and a low-cost termite bond offers the inspection, treatment, and paper trail future buyers trust.

We also draw a bright line on what to DIY: swapping a light is one thing, but bigger electrical work needs permits and documentation or it can trip fines and kill a sale. HOA power under North Carolina’s Planned Community Act surprises a lot of buyers—think fences, sheds, paint, and pools controlled by covenants with daily fines. And if your basement “waterproofing failed,” it probably didn’t; it’s your gutters and grading. Watch your house during a rain, extend downspouts, and ensure positive slope. To wrap, we hit septic pumping schedules tied to real household load and how revaluations push taxes and insurance—plus how to contest assessments and right-size coverage.

Subscribe, share this with a neighbor who loves a project, and leave a review with the one myth you’re double-checking this week. Your question might shape our next show.

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Have you ever wondered what mysteries lie beneath your kitchen sink or above your ceiling? The answers could save you thousands. In this eye-opening episode of the Carolina Contractor Show, host Donnie Blanchard and his co-host Eric Smith, dive into the questions that keep homeowners awake at night—and the solutions that could prevent costly disasters.

Drawing from decades of hands-on experience in construction and building supply, they tackle the uncomfortable truth many new homeowners discover too late: houses need maintenance, and repairs are inevitable. But how much should you budget? While the internet suggests setting aside 1-4% of your home's value annually, real life rarely follows such neat formulas. As they explain, you might go years without major expenses, then suddenly face a five-figure HVAC replacement. Their practical advice cuts through theoretical percentages to help you prepare for what matters.

The hosts take listeners on a virtual tour of often-neglected inspection areas—from attics where disconnected HVAC ducts silently waste energy to crawl spaces where copper pipes quietly corrode from the inside out. These simple DIY checks could save you from catastrophic failures. Their discussion of water heater maintenance (never call it a "hot water heater" again!) includes emergency tips that could spare you extensive water damage when failure inevitably occurs.

Perhaps most valuable is their candid conversation about pre-sale home repairs. Should you replace that aging roof before listing? The answer depends on market conditions and comparable properties. Their insider perspective on finding reliable contractors provides alternatives to online reviews that might actually connect you with quality professionals who won't break the bank.

Whether you're a first-time homeowner trying to avoid expensive mistakes or a seasoned property owner preparing for your next sale, this episode delivers practical wisdom that online searches simply can't match. Subscribe now and join the conversation that's helping homeowners across the Carolinas protect their most valuable investment.

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Renovation or rebuild? That's the question many homeowners face when their current space no longer meets their needs. In this episode, Donnie and E break down the fundamentals of home renovation, sharing insider knowledge that helps you make informed decisions about transforming your living spaces.

The kitchen remains renovation central for most homeowners, but approaches have evolved. Rather than gutting everything, strategic updates to cabinets, countertops, and backsplashes can deliver dramatic results without breaking the bank. Small changes like hardware upgrades or cabinet painting offer budget-friendly alternatives, though Donnie cautions that even seemingly minor updates can add up quickly when multiplied across an entire kitchen.

Master bathroom renovations reveal fascinating shifts in homeowner preferences. The once-coveted soaker tub is rapidly losing popularity, with many choosing to replace these rarely-used fixtures with expansive walk-in showers. This transformation typically involves converting the tub area to a shower while repurposing the original shower space for additional storage – a perfect example of how renovations can improve both aesthetics and functionality.

Perhaps most surprising is the dining room revolution. As formal dining becomes increasingly rare in busy households, these spaces often sit unused. Creative homeowners are converting dining rooms into valuable additions: extra bedrooms that boost home value, expanded kitchen areas with island seating, or oversized pantries that keep countertops clutter-free. These adaptations reflect evolving lifestyle needs while maximizing every square foot.

For exterior updates, deck renovations deliver exceptional return on investment. Donnie shares a brilliant hack from a viral Instagram post: flipping weathered deck boards to expose the less-damaged underside, then sanding and sealing for several more years of life. It's this kind of practical, money-saving advice that makes renovation accessible to more homeowners.

Whether you're considering minor updates or contemplating a complete rebuild, this episode provides the guidance you need to approach your project with confidence. Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to connect with Donnie and submit your home improvement questions for future episodes.

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What if your home could predict when your HVAC system was about to fail, automatically adjust temperatures room by room based on occupancy, or even guide you through complex DIY repairs with step-by-step visual instructions? This isn't science fiction—it's the very near future of homeownership!

Donnie and Eric dive deep into how artificial intelligence will transform our homes over the next five years, exploring technologies that are either already available or just on the horizon. From energy optimization systems that could significantly reduce utility bills to predictive maintenance alerts that prevent costly breakdowns, AI promises to make home management both easier and more affordable.

The conversation explores how facial recognition security can distinguish between family members and strangers, providing customized responses for each. Donnie shares a recent experience using AI visualization to help clients preview a roofing project, demonstrating how these tools are already changing the renovation process. The hosts debate whether augmented reality repair guidance could reduce dependence on service professionals, with Donnie noting, "I don't think it'll put a lot of plumbers or heating and air guys out of a job."

Perhaps most fascinating is the discussion of emerging health applications—from bathroom fixtures that can detect illness before symptoms appear to air quality monitors that automatically improve ventilation when contaminants are detected. The episode concludes with equal parts enthusiasm for these innovations and Donnie's humorous concern that eventually, "that bathroom will kill you intentionally as they go to take over and Skynet rules the world."

Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to hear past episodes or submit questions about your own home improvement projects!

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The long-awaited "Big Beautiful Bill" has finally passed, and it's reshaping America's construction and housing landscape in ways both expected and surprising. Donnie and Eric dive deep into this massive legislation to unpack what it really means for contractors, developers, homebuyers, and the future of housing affordability.

As rain continues to plague construction schedules across the Carolinas, Donnie shares invaluable insights about an unexpected side effect – widespread bathroom ceiling mold caused by malfunctioning vent fans. This practical advice alone could save homeowners thousands in unnecessary roof repairs when the real culprit is a simple damper issue.

The heart of the conversation examines the BBB's most impactful provisions. Contractors will celebrate the 100% equipment deduction that's already enabling business expansion, while developers gain advantages through increased Low Income Housing Tax Credits and streamlined permitting processes. The hosts thoughtfully debate whether these benefits will ultimately reach homebuyers or remain primarily with developers.

Perhaps most forward-thinking is the provision allowing 529 savings accounts to fund skilled trade education. With associate degrees in construction technology costing just $1,400 per semester at North Carolina tech schools, this opens crucial pathways into trades desperately seeking qualified workers. As Donnie notes, "You have no idea how far you're separated from the rest of the construction population just by being able-bodied, smart, having a valid driver's license, and showing up on time."

For those discouraged by the seeming lack of direct assistance for first-time homebuyers, the hosts point listeners toward valuable resources through the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency. The conversation concludes with cautious optimism that while the initial benefits favor developers and production, a stronger construction sector will eventually create more affordable housing options.

Ready to navigate the changing construction landscape? Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to explore past episodes and submit your housing questions directly to Donnie.

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When your professional HVAC technician warns you about a failing component, listen! This powerful lesson kicks off our deep dive into summer air conditioning maintenance as Eric shares how ignoring a $50 capacitor replacement led to an $800 repair bill when his blower motor eventually failed.

The value of maintenance contracts becomes crystal clear as we break down exactly what technicians check during routine service visits: refrigerant levels, operating pressures, capacitors, compressors, electrical loads, coil cleaning, and condensation line clearing. These regular check-ups can extend your HVAC system's lifespan by 5-10 years or more—potentially saving thousands on premature replacement costs.

While professional service is crucial, we also share several DIY checks homeowners can perform. Learn how to measure the temperature differential between your return and supply vents (ideally 15-20 degrees), monitor humidity levels for optimal comfort (50-60%), and locate your condensation drain line to ensure proper drainage. We also reveal a shocking story about how a simple maintenance oversight led to significant ceiling damage that went undetected for weeks.

Understanding your system's proper sizing (roughly 600 square feet per ton) and whether you have single or multi-stage equipment helps explain why your home might feel uncomfortably humid despite reaching the set temperature. For the adventurous, we provide guidance on inspecting ductwork connections and insulation to prevent energy waste and condensation issues.

The Carolina Contractor Show brings you practical knowledge that builds confidence in maintaining your home's most expensive systems. Share your HVAC questions or show topic ideas with us through our website at thecarolinacontractor.com, where you'll also find all our past episodes in podcast form.

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Ever see those social media ads promising miracle solutions for your home? In this eye-opening episode, contractor Donnie Blanchard takes on misleading claims about attic fans that promise to dramatically lower temperatures by 25-30 degrees. Drawing from professional experience, Donnie explains why these mechanical ventilation systems often fail to deliver and can actually disrupt your roof's natural airflow when improperly installed. The conversation highlights how even AI systems perpetuate these myths, emphasizing the value of expert knowledge over algorithm-generated advice.

As summer heats up, the discussion shifts to everyone's favorite warm-weather activity: grilling. Donnie shares professional-grade hacks that will transform your outdoor cooking game, from using a battery-powered blower to quickly heat charcoal to his multi-layered glove technique for handling messy prep work. You'll learn why investing in proper lighting and quality meat thermometers makes all the difference when cooking after dark, and how simple tools like wooden skewers can revolutionize hot dog flipping.

The hosts also walk through essential summer maintenance checks every homeowner should perform. From setting ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise for optimal cooling to inspecting often-overlooked hoses in appliances that could cause costly water damage, these practical tips help protect your biggest investment. The episode offers smart solutions for cleaning dishwashers with vinegar, using sink plungers effectively, and preventing mosquito breeding grounds around your property.

Whether you're looking to debunk home improvement myths, up your grilling game, or create a simple summer maintenance checklist, this episode delivers practical advice from seasoned professionals who understand what actually works. Join us next week when we dive deeper into HVAC maintenance and additional warm-weather home care strategies.

Have a question about your home project? Visit thecarolinacontractorcom to submit your questions and access our complete library of home improvement expertise.

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Ever sat in your living room staring at a mysterious crack, wondering if you should worry? Donnie Blanchard and Eric dive into a treasure trove of common homeowner questions in this information-packed episode that leaves no construction conundrum unsolved.

The guys bust open the persistent myth about black shingles making attics hotter. Through Donnie's experience as an insurance adjuster, complete with impromptu temperature tests across various shingle colors, you'll learn that the five-degree difference between colors is negligible compared to proper ventilation and insulation choices. This revelation alone could save you from avoiding a preferred aesthetic for your next roof.

Concrete control joints, those intentional lines in your driveway that always seem to collect debris, get a thorough explanation. "The only guarantee with concrete is that it will crack," Donnie explains, revealing how these joints actually protect your investment by controlling where cracks appear. His practical advice on maintenance will help you extend the life of your concrete surfaces without unnecessary worry.

The deck material debate gets settled with surprising facts about composite options like Trex. Did you know those beautiful, low-maintenance boards are actually made from recycled plastic bags and sawdust? The hosts compare initial costs versus lifetime maintenance, helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor space based on your specific priorities and situation.

From granite countertop sealing schedules to the truth behind shingle warranties and certification requirements, this episode delivers actionable information you can use immediately. The friendly, conversational expertise makes complicated topics accessible whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just trying to understand what needs attention in your home.

Got a burning question about your house? Head to thecarolinacontractor.com and click "Ask the Contractor" – your question might feature in the next Q&A episode!

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Artificial intelligence might sound like science fiction, but for builders and contractors, it's rapidly becoming an essential tool reshaping how we construct homes and manage projects. In this eye-opening episode, General Contractor Donnie Blanchard and host Eric Smith demystify AI in construction, showing how it's already transforming job sites across America.

From project planning that creates comprehensive schedules in minutes instead of weeks to autonomous equipment that prevents costly errors, we explore the practical applications that make AI valuable rather than threatening. Imagine drones conducting aerial surveys in hours instead of the months traditional methods would require, or design software generating dozens of custom home options based on your specific requirements.

As Donnie explains, "The key word is instantaneous. You can put your information in there and it will see that house from start to finish in less than a minute." We discuss how AI integrates with everything from documentation management to multi-language communication on diverse job sites, all while acknowledging where human expertise remains irreplaceable.

Perhaps most surprisingly, as AI disrupts other industries, construction might benefit from an influx of tech-skilled workers seeking new career paths. "In my world, people crab all the time about not finding good people," Donnie notes, suggesting that displaced tech workers could find fulfilling careers bringing AI expertise to building trades.

Whether you're a contractor looking to stay competitive or a homeowner curious about how your next building project might leverage these technologies, this conversation offers valuable insights without the technical jargon. As one contractor's wife aptly described it, think of AI as "glorified spellcheck" – it takes what we know and just makes it work faster for us.

Check out thecarolinacontractor.com for more resources on incorporating AI into your building projects and to submit your own questions through our Ask The Contractor feature.

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The age-old question of modular versus stick-built construction reveals surprising truths in today's housing market. General contractor Donnie Blanchard brings 20 years of expertise to this deep dive, shattering common misconceptions about both building methods.

Most striking is how the traditional cost advantage of modular homes has virtually disappeared. "The modular home cost is pretty much neck and neck with us," Donnie reveals, noting that on recent quotes, the difference was merely $20,000 – and that's before adding customization options that quickly escalate modular pricing.

Beyond dollars and cents, the fundamental differences become clear. Stick-built construction offers unmatched flexibility, allowing homeowners to make changes throughout the building process as they see their space taking shape. Donnie shares how this hands-on approach incorporates local labor and creates truly personalized homes where walls can be moved and features adjusted even during framing stages.

Modular construction maintains its speed advantage, typically completing in 3-5 months versus 7-12 months for custom homes. However, this comes with significant trade-offs. Many buyers don't realize they'll need to handle their own foundation work, driveway installation, and utility connections – essentially becoming their own contractors for critical aspects of the project.

Quality perceptions get challenged when Donnie shares a personal experience working on a family member's modular home. Despite claims of precision manufacturing, he found walls out of square and design flaws like dormer windows positioned too close to roof lines, creating snow and water intrusion issues. "Every wall was out of square. I had to do so much framing, shimming, trimming... it was not at all what I expected."

Whether you're planning your forever home or considering resale value, this episode provides the insider knowledge needed to make an informed decision about which construction method truly aligns with your priorities, timeline, and vision for your dream home.

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Feeling the pinch of high utility bills? Your home might be quietly leaking money through unsealed windows, inadequate insulation, and other weatherization weak points. General contractor Donnie Blanchard breaks down the surprising difference between weatherization and insulation – and why you need both for maximum comfort and savings…

We dive into a fascinating case study of a young couple whose home had zero wall insulation, leaving them shivering in 50-degree indoor temperatures despite running their heat pump constantly. For just $2,000, a simple "drill and fill" insulation solution transformed their comfort and slashed their energy bills. This perfect example demonstrates how weatherization investments pay for themselves quickly and continue generating savings for decades.

Donnie explains that weatherization addresses convective heat transfer (air movement) while insulation tackles conductive heat transfer (heat moving through materials). Understanding this distinction helps homeowners make smarter upgrade decisions. Whether you're feeling drafts from outlets, discovering your floors aren't insulated, or considering window replacements, this episode provides practical guidance on where to start.

The financial benefits of weatherization can be staggering. Using real data from utility company projections, Donnie reveals how proper weatherization can save homeowners up to six figures over a 30-year mortgage period. Unlike many home improvements that only provide value at resale, weatherization starts paying you back immediately through reduced monthly bills.

We also discuss the value of professional energy audits, including blower door tests and duct blaster assessments that pinpoint exactly where your home is losing energy. Often, the solutions are simpler and less expensive than homeowners expect – sometimes fixing disconnected ductwork can solve problems that might otherwise prompt considering a complete HVAC replacement.

Ready to stop wasting money on inefficient heating and cooling? Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to submit your questions about weatherization, insulation, or any other home improvement topic!

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Ready to transform your space? Donnie Blanchard kicks off this episode with a roof revival story, sharing how Tyler Dodson from Industrial Softwash completely eliminated ugly algae streaks using an innovative chemical process. As a roofing professional...That endorsement carries weight, for homeowners facing similar issues.

The conversation shifts to the hottest home design trends for 2025, revealing a dramatic pivot from the ubiquitous white farmhouse aesthetic to bold, all-black exteriors. While this monochromatic look might seem extreme, the hosts explore how texture differences between materials create visual interest, with gray emerging as an attractive middle-ground option that prevents homes from looking cookie-cutter.

Flooring choices take center stage as Donnie and his co-host compare pre-finished engineered hardwood versus luxury vinyl plank (LVP), offering practical insights about durability, feel, and cost. This leads to a thoughtful discussion about how our living spaces are evolving, with traditional dining rooms giving way to expanded kitchen islands that accommodate whole families and reflect our more casual entertaining style.

The all-electric home trend continues to gain momentum, with at least one in four new homes now fully electric. The hosts break down why this shift makes sense from both practical and financial perspectives, highlighting how current tax incentives create a "sweet spot" for homeowners considering the switch. For those planning new construction, single-story designs are experiencing a renaissance, offering accessibility benefits that appeal to homeowners of all ages.

Whether you're planning a major renovation or simple updates to your outdoor living space, this episode delivers practical advice from experienced contractors who understand both the technical requirements and lifestyle implications of today's home design trends. Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to see project photos, submit questions, or connect with the hosts about your next home project.

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A massive hailstorm just hit Greensboro NC with golf ball-sized projectiles, and your roof might be compromised without you even knowing it. General contractor Donnie Blanchard pulls back the curtain on what happens when hail strikes your shingles and why the damage matters even when there's no immediate leak.

The roofing industry harbors a dark side that emerges after every major storm. Donnie warns about predatory "storm chasers" – out-of-state operators who flood neighborhoods with aggressive sales tactics, encouraging unnecessary insurance claims that can follow you for life. These contractors often pressure homeowners to sign contingency agreements that lock them into using their services, only to disappear when warranty issues arise later.

Your insurance policy likely works differently than you realize when it comes to roof damage. Most carriers now use "test squares" to count hail strikes and determine replacement eligibility, while separate wind and hail deductibles ranging from 1-2% of your home's value have quietly replaced the standard $500-$1,000 deductibles common a decade ago. Filing a claim without legitimate damage creates a permanent record that follows you regardless of which insurance company you use.

Donnie explains exactly what to look for after a storm – from dented gutters and handrails to subtle indicators in your attic – and shares insider knowledge on flashing, proper installation techniques, and exciting advancements in roofing technology. GAF's new shingles now offer 25-year algae protection through time-released copper oxide treatments, while designer shingles continue gaining popularity for their distinctive appearance and durability.

Before you call your insurance company about potential storm damage, contact a reputable local roofing company for an honest assessment that won't jeopardize your insurance history or leave you with subpar repairs and vanishing warranties.

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Think homeownership is out of reach? This eye-opening conversation with real estate expert Ashton Dixon might change your mind forever! We peel back the curtain on the home buying process, revealing pathways to property ownership that most people never discover...

The journey begins with finding the right realtor – someone genuinely invested in your success rather than just chasing a quick commission. Ashton walks us through her meticulous buyer consultation process, a 30+ minute educational session that equips clients with essential knowledge about contracts, terminology, and financing options. This approach stands in stark contrast to agents who skip this crucial step, leaving home buyers vulnerable to costly mistakes.

What truly sets exceptional agents apart is their ability to make offers stand out in competitive markets. Through a fascinating breakdown of her multi-touchpoint communication strategy, Ashton reveals how professional presentation and relationship-building with listing agents can transform your chances of securing a property, even against seemingly stronger bids.

The most surprising revelation comes when discussing financing options. Contrary to what many believe, some programs offer financing without restrictive conditions. Whether you're a first-time buyer intimidated by the process or someone who's tried and failed to enter the market, this episode provides actionable insights and renewed hope..The path to your dream home might be shorter than you think...all it takes is connecting with the right professional who knows how to navigate today's real estate landscape known as the MLS!

Listen now and discover how the right realtor can transform your homeownership journey!

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Choosing between DIY projects and hiring professionals can feel overwhelming. This episode grapples with crucial considerations for homeowners looking to tackle improvement projects, unearthing valuable insights and practical advice. We explore how to assess personal skills and tools, the importance of safety, and when it makes sense to call in a professional. The discussion also emphasizes understanding potential costs and effort, creating balance within home improvements. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting to consider home repairs, this episode aims to provide clarity in your decision-making process. Dive in as we break it down and help you discover the right path for your home projects. Make sure to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave us a review!

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What if tariffs could shape the future of home building and redefine the housing market landscape? Tune in to the Carolina Contractor Show as we, your hosts Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, unravel the complex web of tariffs and their surprising effects on the construction industry. With our signature humor, we kick off with a nod to the tariffs set by Donald Trump, before steering into how these trade policies have impacted the cost of materials like lumber, concrete, and bricks. Discover how reciprocal tariffs might just be the hidden "tax" on consumers and why knowing the origins of your building materials can be a powerful tool for navigating market shifts.

Get ready for a deep dive into the unexpected economic ripples that tariffs create in both local and national contexts. From the nuances of cost-plus contracts to the potential rise of resale homes due to escalating building costs, we cover it all. We also explore the political chess game behind tariff decisions, offering insights from influential figures like Elon Musk on fiscal responsibility and economic strategies. Join us as we discuss the implications of these fiscal policies and the societal reactions they provoke, setting the stage for a broader understanding of how tariffs impact more than just the bottom line.

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Ever wondered if you really need a 20% down payment to buy a home? Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as we unravel these common myths and explore the world of home buying with our special guest Kyle May from Movement Mortgage. Kyle brings his expertise to the table, shedding light on the current challenges faced by young buyers, such as high interest rates and inflation. You'll gain insight into securing a mortgage loan in today's tough market and discover alternative financing options that could make your homeownership dreams a reality.

In this episode, we break down the misconceptions surrounding home buying and introduce a variety of loan options that cater to different financial situations. From VA and USDA loans that offer low or no down payments to FHA loans that require just 3.5%, there's a pathway for everyone. We also dive into down payment assistance programs like those provided by the North Carolina Housing Assistance, and discuss special loan programs for self-employed individuals. Kyle shares invaluable advice on avoiding private mortgage insurance and making use of family gifts or 401k loans for down payments, opening doors for eager homebuyers.

Are you hesitant about buying a home due to market unpredictability? Get ready to rethink your strategy as we discuss the timing and affordability of purchasing property. With Kyle's guidance, we emphasize the long-term benefits of homeownership over renting and the importance of getting pre-approved, no matter your credit score. This episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement for anyone looking to step into the housing market with confidence. Whether you're a first-time buyer or just curious about current trends, tune in to gain the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and take proactive steps on your home buying journey.

Connect with Kyle at KyleJMay.com

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Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as we navigate the tumultuous world of home construction and ownership. We set the stage for a deep dive into the challenges facing today's housing market, where rising house prices and limited inventory are creating unique hurdles for prospective buyers. From DIY renovations to selling a self-built home, we share personal stories and valuable insights that highlight the importance of making informed decisions in a fluctuating market.

As the conversation unfolds, we explore creative strategies that may just turn the tide for young adults aspiring to own a home. We discuss innovative ideas like investing in land for future development or considering vacant commercial properties as potential living spaces. With advice on budgeting, financial discipline, and the potential benefits of tax incentives and special loan programs, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you navigate the complexities of today's economic landscape. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or stepping into the market for the first time, these savvy strategies could be the key to unlocking your homeownership dreams.

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Can you afford to misunderstand your insurance policy when a hurricane strikes? Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as we unravel the complexities of post-hurricane home management. You'll learn the crucial first steps to take after a storm has wreaked havoc on your property, including the importance of promptly filing insurance claims to secure a place in the repair queue amidst potential supply chain disruptions. We emphasize the necessity of having your claim numbers at your fingertips, capturing photos of the damage for ironclad documentation, and the pros and cons of hiring contractors for temporary repairs. We also address common concerns about signing contracts for immediate repairs with practical advice that will bolster your decision-making confidence during these trying times.

Furthermore, we shine a light on the often-overlooked intricacies of hurricane insurance, dispelling misconceptions around flood coverage and the true costs of hurricane damages. Our discussion also navigates the legal waters of dealing with overhanging tree branches and the responsibilities tied to tree removal after a storm. With insights drawn from historical hurricanes like Katrina and Hazel, we explore how past experiences have shaped our current understanding and preparedness. This episode is your go-to guide for managing the aftermath of a hurricane with savvy and preparedness, ensuring you're equipped to handle both the expected and unexpected challenges that come your way.

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What if Donald Trump's election victory could redefine the construction industry landscape? Join us, Eric Smith and Donnie Blanchard, as we unpack this bold notion and discuss the newfound consumer confidence that's energizing the construction sector. We'll also explore how Trump's policies, particularly his focus on immigration enforcement, might reshape the labor force while evaluating the broader implications of a renewed America-first agenda on building projects nationwide.

Switching gears, we take a closer look at a proposed immigration reform called the ID and tax bill, which aims to bring undocumented immigrants into the workforce with legal work permits. By increasing tax revenue and allowing access to financial options without welfare or voting rights, this reform could be a game-changer. We share insights into the political dynamics at play, with a light-hearted take on potential government reshuffles featuring figures like Matt Gaetz. Reflecting on past elections, we suggest a period of introspection has revealed deeper anti-American sentiments in some policies.

Finally, we tackle the hot topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts being reconsidered by major companies. From Ford to UNC Chapel Hill, the shift toward a merit-based "QDEI" approach is gaining traction, celebrating natural diversity through qualifications and teamwork. In industries like construction, where skilled workers are essential, we advocate for productivity and quality as the ultimate goals. The conversation rounds off with a nod to existing minority and women-owned business programs, which stand separately from DEI mandates, highlighting the organic diversity present in the workforce.

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What if the re-election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States could reshape the entire construction industry landscape? Join Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith on The Carolina Contractor Show as he shares firsthand insights gained from his businesses, SureTop Roofing and Blanchard Building Company. In this episode, we step beyond our usual DIY projects to uncover how Trump's economic and immigration policies might influence the construction sector and beyond. With a spirited blend of optimism and critical analysis, we navigate the complex political terrain and reflect on the broader economic implications for businesses like ours.

Explore the crossroads of energy independence and environmental stewardship, where traditional fossil fuels meet clean energy initiatives. We shine a light on Donnie's role as the on-camera general contractor in the series "50-50 Flip," and how it echoes the ongoing debate over energy policies in the U.S. From Keystone pipeline discussions to the benefits of solar and nuclear power, this lively conversation examines the economic impact these policies wield over everyday business operations. It's a balanced exploration of the opportunities and hurdles that come with different energy strategies, all filtered through the lens of a contractor who knows the ropes.

Immigration and infrastructure take center stage as we dissect the nuances of undocumented immigration and the allocation of infrastructure funds. We talk about the real-world challenges faced by industries like construction and the need for a more discerning approach to immigration policies. The conversation doesn’t shy away from critiquing government actions or highlighting the hypocrisy of certain political stances. We cap off the episode with a look at how these political dynamics might shape the future of construction, and invite you to continue following the series for more insights and thought-provoking discussions on the impact of a Trump presidency.

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What if you could build your forever home without breaking the bank? Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as we unravel the secrets to balancing quality and cost in home construction with our special guest, general contractor Donnie Blanchard. Our conversation starts with some light-hearted banter, including a flight of fancy where Donnie's charm lands Donald Trump on the Joe Rogan podcast. We quickly steer back to reality, diving into the Carolina Panthers’ quarterback quandaries, and how those sports lessons oddly mirror challenges in the housing market today.

Navigating fluctuating interest rates while planning a new build can feel like playing a high-stakes game of chess. Eric and Donnie share insights on making smart financial moves, like the potential benefits of refinancing and the importance of understanding long-term costs. They stress the need for a reliable builder who won't compromise on quality, especially when crafting a custom or forever home. From excellent insulation to thoughtful design choices, we highlight ways to make proactive investments that promise long-term savings and enhance the comfort of your home.

Ever wondered how to save big on building materials? Discover intriguing tales of homeowners sourcing discounted materials and the rising trend of luxury vinyl plank flooring as a cost-effective, stylish choice. Learn how quartz countertops are gaining ground over granite for their low maintenance appeal, and hear Donnie's personal journey to becoming a certified cabinet dealer. Tune in to uncover practical strategies to make your construction dreams a reality without sacrificing quality for cost.

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Unlock the secrets to saving money while building your ideal home as we sit down with seasoned general contractor Donnie Blanchard. This episode is packed with insights, from the excitement of football fandom to the parallels between strategic game adaptations and the construction process.

Ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of home building and the impact of fluctuating interest rates on your dream property? We explore these intricacies, emphasizing the importance of considering long-term needs and maintaining quality without breaking the bank. From the art of balancing cost, quality, and time to the necessity of having a reliable builder, we offer our listeners a roadmap for navigating the complex world of custom home building. Discover our tips for making smart investments, like quality insulation, that can lead to significant savings over time.

Have you ever questioned the best materials for your home or the growing trend of Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring? Our conversation ventures into these topics, sharing real experiences with building materials and flooring options that can maximize savings. Donnie shares his expertise on purchasing fixtures online and the shift in countertop preferences to quartz for its low maintenance. With these insights, you'll be equipped to make informed decisions that will enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. Join us for this engaging episode filled with expert advice and practical tips designed to make your home-building journey smoother and more cost-effective.

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What if a flood could put everything you own in jeopardy? On this episode of the Carolina Contractor Show, Eric Smith and general contractor Donnie Blanchard tackle the pressing issue of flood preparedness and insurance coverage, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation in North Carolina. Drawing from personal experiences in hard-hit areas like Little Switzerland and Boone, we bring you vivid accounts of navigating blocked roads and prolonged power outages. Donnie shares his unique perspective as a former insurance adjuster during Hurricane Katrina, revealing the often misunderstood intricacies of flood insurance. You’ll learn essential strategies for protecting your home, including the use of high-capacity generators and how you can support recovery efforts through groups like Samaritan's Purse.

Our discussion doesn’t stop there; we equip you with practical strategies tailored for properties that are vulnerable to water runoff. Discover the importance of proper drainage systems and innovative solutions, such as water-activated flood bags and the DoorDam, to shield your home from potential damage. We stress the importance of disaster preparedness essentials, from maintaining a water supply and emergency kits to safeguarding critical documents. Our reflections on past disasters highlight the crucial roles of communication and planning, offering you the tools to stay safe in emergencies. Tune in for invaluable advice that could be the difference in how you face severe weather challenges.

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We dive into the world of home improvement with a focus on increasing your property’s resale value. Discover why the Carolina Panthers are struggling and how that relates to your home projects. From simple DIY upgrades like painting kitchen cabinets to creating impactful curb appeal with strategic landscaping, we provide actionable tips to make your home not just livable, but lovable. And yes, these projects are all about getting results that look like they were done by a pro!

Finally, we tackle the ever-important issue of the return on investment (ROI) for home renovations. Are those high-cost upgrades really worth it? We challenge some popular but potentially misleading advice, emphasizing functional improvements like a new roof or an efficient HVAC system over flashy but low-ROI projects. With expert insights from Donnie Blanchard of SureTop Roofing, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to make smart, informed decisions about your home renovations. Plus, we answer listener questions, making sure you're getting the most out of your investments. Tune in for all this and more!

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Can the Kansas City Chiefs pull off a historic three-peat, or will the Eagles soar to victory with their star-studded roster? Join us as we dive into bold NFL season predictions, where I forecast a Chiefs vs. Detroit Super Bowl showdown with Kansas City coming out on top. Donnie, on the other hand, predicts a thrilling Chiefs-Eagles final, giving the edge to Philadelphia thanks to their new powerhouse, Saquon Barkley. We also chat about the Baltimore Ravens' boosted offense, featuring Derrick Henry, and our heightened excitement for the Carolina Panthers under the guidance of new head coach Dave Canales.

As autumn sets in, we shift gears to practical home maintenance tips that will keep your house in top shape for the colder months. We kick things off with a shout-out to our dedicated listener Joshua Webb, before discussing the benefits of airing out your home and turning off the HVAC to save on electricity. Learn how to take advantage of the mild fall weather to refresh your living space and prepare for the winter ahead. We'll also share insights on essential HVAC and roof maintenance, from regular diagnostics to selecting the right sealants for your home's needs.

In our final segment, we zero in on crucial autumn maintenance for roofs and gutters. Discover the importance of inspecting and cleaning gutters to prevent damage, and learn practical advice on using gutter clips and ensuring proper yard drainage. We'll also delve into deck maintenance, discussing the benefits of composite decks and offering tips for lawn care and mower upkeep. Plus, find out creative solutions for protecting outdoor faucets during the cold weather. This episode is packed with expert advice and lively discussion to keep your home and football season running smoothly!

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Join experts Eric Smith and Donnie Blanchard as they steer us through the latest in truck-making technology. They explore a potential shift from electric batteries to hydrogen fuel cells for long-haul freight, weighing in on the pros and cons. With insights from Rick Cucci, COO of Fundkite, Eric and Donnie provide a critical look at the feasibility of battery-powered vehicles hitting carbon neutrality targets. The conversation doesn’t stop at technology; we also speculate on the potential economic impacts of a Kamala Harris presidency on housing and construction, giving listeners a well-rounded perspective on future industry trends.

We wrap up the episode by examining how changes in interest rates could ripple through the economy, especially under different presidential outcomes. Affordable housing, tax incentives, and tenants' rights, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, are discussed with a sharp focus on political influence. We critique Kamala Harris's stance on energy, from fracking to renewable sources, and forecast what her administration might mean for energy independence. Listen in to catch our predictions for a Harris presidency and don’t forget to check out last week’s episode for our take on a Trump victory. Your feedback is invaluable, so hit the "ask the contractor" button on our website to share your thoughts or suggest topics for future shows.

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Can weather really make or break a construction project? Find out as we chat with Donnie Blanchard from Sure Top Roofing about how heavy rainfall and porous chimney materials are causing headaches for roofers everywhere. We also discuss how seasonal trends, like vacations and droughts, shape the demand for roof replacements, and ponder the far-reaching implications of a possible Trump presidency on housing interest rates and the construction industry. Don’t miss our updates on social media and YouTube, where we've been buzzing with activity, and join us as we remember Joe, a listener whose life inspired his community.

How do presidential elections really affect the housing market? We pay tribute to our beloved listener Joe before diving into this critical question. By examining historical trends and significant events like the 2008 housing crash and the 2021 COVID-19 housing boom, we highlight how market dynamics often overshadow political changes. Tune in as we discuss why house prices tend to rise during election years and speculate on the unpredictable moves of the Federal Reserve in response to a potential Trump win.

Is deregulation a double-edged sword? In our exploration of government policies on the economy, we look back at how tax cuts and deregulation have spurred growth in the past, while also considering the risks of such strategies—illustrated by the 2008 financial crisis and recent lumber price surges. We then tackle the pressing issue of inflation, discussing its impact on daily life and the economy, and share our hopes for the upcoming election’s influence on economic policies. From grocery costs to new energy regulations, we cover it all, making sense of how these factors affect you.

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Can you truly prepare for the unpredictable power of hurricanes, and are we genuinely ready to meet the ambitious "net zero by 2050" goal? These are the questions we tackle in this eye-opening episode of the Carolina Contractor Show. We start with a timely reminder about hurricane preparedness, emphasizing the importance of acting early before storms escalate. Then, we dive into a controversial discussion about the net zero movement, scrutinizing its motivations and potential for corruption. For homeowners eager to make an impact, we offer practical advice on integrating solar and wind energy solutions into their homes, while also stressing the need for large-scale changes in the industrial sector, which accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption.

Next, we confront the daunting challenges of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The skyrocketing demand for critical minerals and the associated environmental degradation are just the tip of the iceberg. We delve into the often overlooked labor and environmental costs of mining in regions like Mexico, revealing the stark contrast between political promises and practical feasibility. Furthermore, we examine the infrastructure deficits and the prohibitive costs of upgrading the US electric grid, comparing these to the more cost-effective nuclear power. On a more personal note, we offer homeowners realistic steps to reduce their energy consumption without breaking the bank.

Finally, we explore the art of designing and constructing energy-efficient homes. Simple design choices, like optimal window orientation and balanced insulation, can significantly boost a home's efficiency. We discuss the benefits of modern HVAC systems such as heat pumps and geothermal units, and the advantages of tankless water heaters for domestic use. Hear about the transformative power of solar shingles through a compelling case study of a lake house, and understand why not every home can achieve net zero due to orientation constraints. However, impactful measures like installing solar shingles can still make a substantial difference, helping homeowners reduce utility bills while contributing positively to the environment.

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Have you ever wondered how you can slash your summer cooling costs while keeping your home comfortable? Our latest episode of the Carolina Contractor Show promises to reveal practical, budget-friendly strategies that will help you do just that.

But it's not all about entertainment. We're committed to equipping homeowners with actionable advice to enhance energy efficiency and reduce utility bills. Donnie and Eric Smith shed light on the importance of proper insulation and air sealing, especially in older homes, to prevent AC units from overworking. They delve into the nitty-gritty of air distribution, heat transfer, and breaking thermal bridges, ensuring your HVAC system operates more effectively and lasts longer. From using low expansion spray foam around windows and doors to installing programmable thermostats and ceiling fans, we cover a range of easy-to-implement solutions.

We round off the episode with valuable tips for outdoor home upgrades that can contribute to substantial energy savings. Learn about the benefits of installing a radiant barrier in your attic, upgrading to multi-stage HVAC units, and maintaining your system for optimal performance. We also touch on thoughtful tree management for natural shade and the impact of replacement windows and insulated garage doors. Don't miss out on this treasure trove of tips to transform your home into an energy-efficient haven. Visit thecarolinacontractor.com for more resources, past episodes, and to submit your questions and topic suggestions!

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Can choosing the right home construction method save you time and money? Discover the hidden benefits and challenges of modular versus stick-built homes on this week’s Carolina Contractor Show. Donnie, a seasoned general contractor, dives deep into the intricacies of modular and stick-built homes, debunking myths and offering a balanced perspective on both construction methods.

In this episode, we explore the practicalities of modular homes, from logistical challenges to cost savings, and address common perceptions about their quality. Learn about the additional responsibilities when opting for modular homes, like coordinating foundational work and utility installations. We'll also shed light on the customization flexibility and hands-on advantages of traditional stick-built homes. Whether you're drawn to the faster timeline of modular homes or the personalized touch of stick-built homes, this episode is packed with expert tips to guide you through making an informed decision. Don't miss out on our candid discussion that could change the way you think about home construction!

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Ever wondered what goes into demolishing an industrial elevator shaft and why vintage bricks are suddenly all the rage online? Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as Donnie and Eric spill the beans on a social media sensation they never saw coming. But we don't stop there. With hurricane season looming, we pivot to a crucial discussion on securing the right insurance coverage to protect your property. From practical tips on prepping for the storm to navigating insurance claims like a pro, we equip you with knowledge that could save you headaches (and money) down the line.

When a storm hits, being prepared makes all the difference. We break down the essential steps you need to take before filing an insurance claim, including the debate between calling your insurance company's 1-800 number versus your local agent. Learn how to inspect your home for damage, whether it's the roof, attic, or even your electronic devices, and understand the nuances of replacement cost coverage (RCV) versus actual cash value (ACV) policies. We'll also guide you through the documentation process, the importance of temporary repairs, and the dangers of hiring uninsured contractors. Tune in to arm yourself with the crucial tips and insights that will help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims post-disaster, ensuring your home and sanity are well-protected.

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Can homeowners really be held responsible for damage caused by their neighbors' trees during hurricane season? Join us on the Carolina Contractor Show as we unravel this surprising truth and other crucial insights. Leveraging my background as a former insurance adjuster, I clarify the often-confusing responsibilities and liabilities associated with overhanging tree branches and property damage. We also touch on the misunderstandings surrounding flood insurance, emphasizing the importance of having a knowledgeable insurance agent to secure the best possible coverage as hurricane season approaches.

Why should you consider smaller insurance firms over well-known giants? Discover the benefits of choosing agents who represent multiple insurers, which can lead to better service and incentives. We reveal the hidden costs of big insurance companies, such as higher rates driven by advertising expenses and potential conflicts of interest. Additionally, we share valuable tips on how opting for higher deductibles on your insurance policies can significantly lower your mortgage payments, offering substantial monthly savings that can make a real difference.

Planning a home improvement project? Let’s talk countertops and roofing materials. We compare the pros and cons of popular countertop options like granite, quartz, and laminate, helping you make informed decisions for your kitchen. On the roofing front, we delve into the advantages of CertainTeed and GAF shingles, highlighting GAF's superior warranty and wind resistance. The importance of using certified installers and the right materials to ensure long-lasting performance is also underscored. Tune in to get expert advice on selecting the best countertops and roofing solutions for your home.

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Imagine embarking on a construction odyssey that leads you to a 10,000 square-foot lakeside gem in Burlington. That's exactly what we're doing today, as I recount the thrilling tale of my most challenging structural project to date. From the industrial elegance of a porch crafted with dense structural fir to the soaring splendor of radius glulam beams. We'll explore the behind-the-scenes marvels of heavy timber framed construction. The intricacies of engineering, the dance with unpredictable weather, and the potential for aerial views via drone—all these facets bring this architectural wonder to life before your eyes.

Switching from the heights of construction, we delve into the essentials every new homeowner should have. Have you ever considered the simple yet significant implications of contractor keys, or reflected on the paramount importance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Through personal tales that outline the life-saving impact of these devices, we underscore why they should never be overlooked. So, strap in for a journey through the realms of grand construction and the vital things new homeowners need to do!

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Ever found yourself locked in the heated debate of gas versus charcoal grilling, or whether Michael Jordan really is the G.O.A.T. of basketball? Well, buckle up, because that's just the tip of the iceberg in today's sizzling episode! Eric Smith and I get the ball rolling on our favorite meaty subject—grilling. Our playful banter will guide you through the convenience and precision of gas grilling, perfect for those who prefer not to keep the neighbors waiting with anticipation every time they're firing up the grill. We'll then fan the flames of tradition with a love letter to charcoal grilling, complete with my personal conversion story from a Kamado Joe skeptic to a devout enthusiast of a Green Egg.

Think you can't teach an old dog new tricks? Wait until you hear about the game-changing wireless meat thermometers and electric smokers that even a novice can use to grill like a pro. My tale of crafting the perfect 15-pound brisket with the sous vide method might just revolutionize your next family steak night. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or still figuring out which end of the tongs to hold, this episode is marinated in tips, tricks, and hearty laughs that'll make you the hero of your next backyard barbecue. Join Eric and me as we share our smoky secrets, and maybe, just maybe, settle some sports debates along the way.

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"Brace yourselves as I recount my triumph in the office NCAA men's basketball bracket pool—it's not just a game" - Eric Smith

Just a prelude to the power tool prowess I'm set to unveil. As a seasoned contractor, I've witnessed first-hand the evolution of these dynamic devices, from the hefty drills of the past to the lightweight, battery-operated marvels of the present. This episode is your ticket to understanding how the modern toolbox has been revolutionized, aligning with the DIY spirit and the professional's precision.

Who hasn't faced the dilemma of a dying battery mid-project or the burden of lugging around those hefty packs? We're spilling the beans on how to navigate the world of battery-powered tools without losing steam, literally. The discussion ventures beyond mere convenience to the strategic side of tool ownership—why not mix it up with some battery-powered mainstays for everyday tasks and rent the gas-powered beasts for those once-in-a-blue-moon, Herculean jobs? It's a smooth move for your wallet and workspace alike.

Now, let's fast forward to what's brewing on the horizon for battery-powered tools. Imagine hammering through concrete without being tethered to an outlet, or powering a pump in the remotest of sites—all in a day's work with the future tech we're discussing. We're talking about advancements that could see your tools charging faster, lasting longer, and even playing the role of your personal maintenance assistant. Prepare to be charged up by a conversation that envisions a future where the cordless convenience we enjoy today pales in comparison to the wireless wonders that await.

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Get ready to conquer your springtime blues and spruce up your living space with a dash of Donnie Blanchard wisdom and a sprinkle of Eric Smith expertise. We're kicking off the season with a bang, diving headfirst into the madness of March and battling the seasonal beast that is pollen. As an avid sports fan, I'm sharing my unique bracket-picking strategies and dishing out the lowdown on college basketball's heavy hitters like UConn, Kentucky, and Duke. But it's not all hoops and cheers; I've got the scoop on how to tackle that pesky yellow dust coating everything in sight. Plus, we'll take a peek at NC State's unexpected rise to the Sweet 16 and what it might mean for the finals.

Spring cleaning is knocking at your door, and we've got the master key! Join me and home improvement guru Eric Smith as we walk you through a stress-free seasonal refresh. From crafting a solid game plan to tackling your home's nooks and crannies, we've got your checklist covered. We'll navigate the unpredictable spring weather while doling out advice on HVAC upkeep, so your system runs like a charm when you need it most. And hey, if you can enlist the family in a team effort to breeze through those projects, why not make it a bonding experience too?

As we shift our focus to the great outdoors, it's time to get your hands dirty and your lawns greener. We're dishing out practical tips for maintaining your outdoor oasis—from power washing prowess to lawn mower love, all the way to getting your grill gleaming for barbecue season. Discover the secrets to defeating weeds before they claim your backyard, and learn how a little deck diligence can pay off big time. Don't forget to check that roof and give your HVAC a once-over before the scorching summer hits. Tune in for a blend of expert advice and hearty laughs as we help you conquer the springtime saga with grace and a little elbow grease.

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Ever find yourself wishing you had a design pro at your fingertips when you need ideas for home renovation? Well, on the latest episode of the Carolina Contractor Show, we're here to tell you about the dynamic fusion of traditional craftsmanship and innovative artificial intelligence reshaping the construction industry. We kick off with a casual sports chat before diving into the nuts and bolts of home improvement and the potential problems of AI biases, demonstrating that technology has both a light-hearted and a serious side.

Imagine a world where AI not only simplifies project scheduling but also brings a wealth of design possibilities to your fingertips—especially when Mother Nature decides to play hardball. That's the reality we're examining as we navigate the three tiers of AI: narrow, general, and superintelligent. Rest assured, though, the robots haven't won just yet. We're focusing on the practical side of AI in construction, from project planning efficiency to on-site management, all while cherishing the irreplaceable human element that keeps our industry thriving.

As we wrap up, don't miss our exploration into how AI-generated designs and the promise of 3D printing are setting the stage for a construction revolution. The job landscape is changing, but I'm sharing insights on how those with a knack for tech could find fresh opportunities in our field. With a nod to the post-COVID-19 world and the challenges it presents, we delve into how AI can aid in resource allocation and project communication, ensuring the future of construction is not just built—it's intelligently engineered. Join us for this riveting discussion where we marry the old with the new and pave the way for innovation in our industry.

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Embark on a transformative journey with real estate titan Steven Andrews as he takes us from his blue-collar roots to the peaks of industry success. Discover how a pivotal class at High Point University catapulted Stephen into a remarkable career, leading to his role as a mentor and beacon in guiding new investors with Soritz Consulting. Through laughter and sincerity, we traverse Stephen's narrative, examining the mentorship that shaped his path and the vital lessons he imparts to those looking to make their mark in the real estate world.

Ever wondered how life's voyage and professional aspirations can coexist harmoniously? Steven Andrews, with his SOAR-X brand and real estate coaching, cracks the code, blending the pursuit of wealth with the journey of life. His insights into maintaining genuine relationships and learning from the industry's pitfalls redefine success. We peel back the layers of the real estate investment playbook, offering you a glimpse into Stephen's decade-spanning wisdom that encompasses everything from property maintenance to savvy financing strategies.

In today's episode, we not only illuminate the strategies for thriving in an ever-shifting market but also muse on the deeper meaning of success. We share our personal reflections on reaching 'when's enough, enough?' and debate the intricacies of balancing wealth with quality of life—inviting you to redefine The New American Dream alongside us. Join us in this heartfelt discourse, where we celebrate professional triumphs and the essence of a fulfilling life, with wisdom courtesy of Steven Andrews.

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Are your shingles shaken or stirred by Mother Nature's wrath? Fear not— Donnie Blanchard teams up with Eric Smith from home builder's supply to arm you with the roofing wisdom needed to keep your home's crown jewel in tip-top shape. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, offering everything from the secrets of spotting wear and tear to the magic behind making insurance claims for storm-battered roofs.

Ever felt the dread of finding the perfect roofer for your castle? We’ve got you covered! We’ll walk you through the quest of choosing a contractor, highlighting the lifesaving benefits of free inspections, the safety net of working with certified pros, and the holy grail of extended warranties through manufacturer affiliations. Dive into the nitty-gritty with us, as we expose the insides of contract pricing and hidden costs, and rest assured, my Sure Top Roofing crew’s expertise isn't just for show—I'm spilling the best-kept industry secrets to ensure your roof replacement is nothing short of royal.

As we wrap this shingle saga, we'll zero in on the robustness of modern roofing materials, specifically the miraculous HDZ shingles that laugh in the face of hurricanes. Plus, we don't just throw shade at unfair insurance practices; we shine a spotlight on how to combat them and stand by you, ensuring you get the coverage you deserve. And when it comes to the installation ballet—from the graceful dance of dump trailers to the symphony of pneumatic nail guns—we reveal why Sure Top Roofing is the maestro of the roofing orchestra, orchestrating a flawless performance from start to cleanup. Join us and secure your home's legacy against the elements, with advice that's as solid as the roof over your head.

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Unlock the door to savvy homeownership with expert insights from General Contractor Donnie Blanchard and building sales whiz Eric Smith, as they guide you through the initial dance of settling into your new digs. From the moment you turn the key, discover why changing the toilet seat isn't just a quirky preference but a sanitary must-do, and how securing your abode with new locks can ease your mind faster than a cup of chamomile tea. We delve into the nitty-gritty of setting up utilities, ensuring your blinds afford you the privacy for those victory dances in the living room, and why getting to know the guts of your home – like where to find and how to use your water shutoff and breaker box – could be a game-changer during domestic mishaps.

Home sweet home is more than a catchphrase—it's an efficient, well-oiled machine, and we're here to make sure yours doesn't grind to a halt! Peel back the curtain on home warranty plans, as we demystify the difference between silver, gold, and platinum protection, all while keeping you in the know about what's worth the splurge when it comes to safeguarding your home's systems and appliances. Still hungry for more? Sink your teeth into energy efficiency upgrades that could have you saving a bundle, from sealing attics to installing modern windows. Who knew adulting could feel this empowering?

Wrap up your tool belt and get ready to talk turkey about home maintenance. We're not just blowing hot air when we say understanding your HVAC’s lifespan or choosing the right thermostat can be as crucial as knowing your favorite pizza topping. And because we care about your castle—and everyone in it—we touch on the latest in roofing, the ins and outs of gas vs. electric appliances, and the digital watchdogs keeping an eye on your home. So whether you're laying down roots or simply sprucing up your space, join us for a heart-to-heart on how to keep your sanctuary safe, secure, and running smoother than a freshly oiled squeaky door hinge.

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This week on the Carolina Contractor Show, I've joined forces with the savvy Eric Smith to arm you with the truth behind DIY home improvement—sifting through the social media static to pinpoint which hacks hold water and which could just sink your budget. We had a good laugh about a personal run-in with some sketchy HVAC filter advice that almost cost me big time, underscoring that generic tips don’t always fit your home’s unique quirks. So, if you've got a question that needs a pro's wisdom, our "ask the contractor" segment is tailor-made for you.

Roll up your sleeves with us as we weigh the scales of DIY against the expertise of professional home renovations. We'll reveal the hidden trials and tribulations that come with self-managed home projects—think overlooked costs, timing misjudgments, and those unforeseen obstacles that love to pop up mid-project. Not to be outdone, we'll also explore the mental ease and reliability that comes with hiring a pro. Picturing a shiny new roof over your head or a spruced-up bathroom sanctuary? Our insights into the DIY vs. professional debate might just save you more than a few headaches (and dollars).

Navigating the labyrinth of homeowner's insurance doesn't have to be daunting, and we're here to light the way. We dismantle common coverage misunderstandings, especially when it comes to flooding mishaps and roofing fine print. The roofing world has some nifty advancements up its sleeve, too; we dive into the durability of metal roofs and the solid warranties that companies like GAF are throwing into the ring. Whether you're here for the knowledge, a good chuckle, or simply the thrill of home improvement potential, this episode is jam-packed with expertise to keep your next project on solid ground.

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We went from talking about what we do on the radio to actually doing it on TV! Alongside Krystal and Dedric Polite, I lift the veil on what it's like to cross the threshold from being a general contractor to doing the impossible on a network's timeline. Our conversation isn't just about the glittering lights of the camera, but the grit of flipping houses under the watchful eye of a production schedule. We delve into the decision-making and strategic moves necessary for the show's success, including a savvy tip that turned a dining room into a money-making bedroom.

The nitty-gritty of renovating isn't all rosy, especially when tackling older homes with their share of surprises. In this episode, I recount the challenges faced on set and share how a reliable crew of subcontractors and laser-focused strategy meetings became our blueprint to overcoming obstacles. You'll hear how the show's demands catapulted my multi-tasking to new heights, all while managing to keep my business's brand front and center amidst the spotlight.

I express my genuine gratitude for the unwavering support we've received and tease the exclusive content we're itching to unveil. So grab your hard hat and join us as we explore the collision of craftsmanship and film making on the Carolina Contractor Show – it's an episode packed with as much heart as it is with hammering.

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Ducking under a doorway during a storm won't save you from the insurance headache that follows — but our latest episode of the Carolina Contractor Show might just be your shelter from the chaos. We're peeling back the layers of complexity around insurance claims, deductibles, and getting the most out of your policies post-storm damage. Get clued in on the secrets of savvy homeownership, as I, Donnie Blanchard, along with expert guests, draw on personal experiences to guide you through the aftermath of nature's fury with actionable advice.

Have you ever been cornered by a storm-chasing roofer? This episode's for you. We're exposing the underbelly of the roofing industry and showing you how to spot the wolves in contractor's clothing. Listen in as we stress the importance of choosing quality shingles and trustworthy, certified installers for your repairs. It's about fortifying your home against the next storm and ensuring that the only knock on your door is opportunity, not opportunists.

From the eye of the storm to the calm after it passes, we're charting the course through the insurance claim process, revealing how to ensure you don't get shortchanged on payouts. You'll learn why the lowest quote isn't always your friend and how to negotiate the insurance maze with confidence. And as a special treat, I'll share behind-the-scenes snippets from my upcoming stint on Hulu's "50-50 Flip." So batten down the hatches and tune in – your home, wallet, and peace of mind will thank you.

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Prepare to transform your house into a cutting-edge haven as Donnie and Eric tackle the world of smart home automation. With a twist of football talk to warm up, we quickly shift gears to the core of today's tech-driven domiciles. From thermostats that learn your schedule to coffee makers you can command with your voice, we promise to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the smart device landscape with confidence and a touch of skepticism.

Step into a future where your living space anticipates your every need, yet not without its quirks. We scrutinize the newest gadgets, like robotic vacuums that could steal the chore chart right from under our kids' noses, and fridges that do more than just chill your food. Donnie and Eric don't shy away from debating whether these intelligent creations are the pinnacle of convenience or just a fancier way to do the mundane. Get the inside scoop on which technologies earn our seal of approval and which ones might be better left on the store shelf.

As we wrap up, consider the allure of a bathroom that sets the mood for your skincare routine or a kitchen that could practically cook dinner for you. With a touch of humor and a wealth of insights, we explore the line between smart investment and indulgent luxury. By the end of our chat, you'll have a clearer picture of how to make your home not just smarter, but also a more efficient and enjoyable place to live. Join us, share your thoughts, and let's embrace the smart home revolution with a healthy dose of reality.

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Prepare to have your mind blown by the thermal magic of spray foam insulation as Rich Brown from Prime Energy Group joins us to reveal the home upgrades that truly pay off. Discover the remarkable changes you'll experience after insulating your home with spray foam – from the initial 24-hour adjustment period, necessitated by VOCs, to the long-term joy of consistent temperatures and erased hot and cold spots. Rich isn't just blowing hot air; he backs his claims with personal tales and statistical data that map out the undeniable energy savings and cost benefits, making this episode a treasure trove for those on the quest for ultimate home comfort and efficiency.

Ever wondered how to achieve a harmonious relationship between your spray foam insulation and HVAC system? Tune in as I share my own testimonial on how this dynamic duo works in tandem to extend the life of your HVAC unit, reduce maintenance headaches, and most importantly, save you some serious coin. We're not just talking about cutting down utility bills; we're turning the volume down on your noisy environment with alternative soundproofing methods and innovative framing techniques. Get ready to transform your living space into a serene and economical sanctuary with the wisdom Rich and I lay out in this game-changing episode.

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Ever wondered how to elevate your home without spending a fortune? This episode has you covered, with Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, offering a treasure trove of affordable home improvement gems. From debunking myths about Tyvek house wrap with spray foam guru Rich Brown, to a segment brimming with doable "Honey Done" tasks, we're taking the dread out of home upkeep. Get ready to send us photos of your transformed spaces; we're stoked to see how our tips for minimal-effort makeovers turn your abode from blah to breathtaking.

Curb appeal and home efficiency go hand-in-hand, and we're here to show you how. This episode isn't just about aesthetics; it's a masterclass in the smart upkeep of your castle. We'll guide you through choosing the right pressure washer, share a chuckle over my own electrifying DIY mishap, and even toss in some color psychology to make your front door the talk of the neighborhood. As your guides in this venture, we're spilling the beans on the little tweaks that not only spruce up your exterior but also fatten your wallet with energy savings.

But wait—there's more to a home than its shell. The final chapter of our conversation dives deep into the nuts and bolts of maintenance that often go unnoticed. Imagine the satisfaction of a lint trap so clean it looks brand new, or cabinet doors so chic your kitchen feels like it's had a full makeover—we're here to tell you how. Donnie and I share from our own experiences, proving that a well-oiled home is the secret to a smoother life. So, whether you're wielding a wrench or perusing for new hardware, let's make those little details count and wrap up those Honey-Done lists once and for all.

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Prepare to have your perceptions of home comfort and efficiency revolutionized as Rich Brown, a maestro in the field of insulation, joins us to unravel the complexities of spray foam insulation. Our discussion takes you through the fascinating history and science behind open cell and closed cell insulation, revealing why this isn't just about filling up wall cavities—it's about redefining the standards of thermal protection in our homes. We delve into the art of applying these materials, from new constructions to retrofitting existing structures, and highlight the inert nature of open cell insulation that securely holds your home's air without unleashing harmful chemicals.

Imagine a material that not only insulates but also acts as a barrier against water and energy loss. That's the promise of hydrophobic open cell foam, a topic we explore in depth with Rich. We break down the subtle yet significant cost differences between hydrophobic and non-hydrophobic options, the challenges installers face, and why open cell foam might deliver the same R-value at half the price. The conversation also shines a light on spray foam's superior air and radiant barrier properties, which offer a robust defense against convective heat transfer—making traditional insulation methods pale in comparison.

Wrapping up our conversation, we confront the myths about spray foam insulation head-on, assuring you of its formaldehyde-free composition and the importance of expert installation. We share insights from the rigorous certification process in North Carolina and guide you through the meticulous steps necessary for a flawless installation in an existing home. As we conclude this episode, we're already eager for our follow-up discussion with Rich, promising even more enlightening insights into how spray foam insulation can profoundly impact the comfort and efficiency of your living space. Stay tuned, and in the meantime, head over to our website for additional resources!

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As we flip the calendar page from Thanksgiving to the festive December days, I promise you'll be gleefully stringing lights and decking the halls with a newfound wisdom on the perfect moment for outdoor Christmas decor. The Carolina Contractor Show isn't just about twinkling lights; we're bringing you a hot cup of knowledge to keep your home cozy and efficient as the winter winds howl. From discussing the ripple effects of the government's green initiatives to digging into the heart of home winterization, we're tucking you in with everything you need to know to safeguard your abode against the frosty bite of winter.

Picture this: You're nestled by the fireplace, but is your HVAC system cozy as well? We're shining a bright LED light on the secrets of proper maintenance, from selecting the ideal Merv rating for furnace filters to insulating those pesky pipes that shiver in the cold. Not only do we illuminate the often-forgotten crawl spaces with energy-saving tips, but we also lace up our boots to tackle ice dams and share a chuckle at the thought of weatherproofing more than just hose bibs. It's a chapter filled with practical advice to keep your home running like a well-oiled sled on a snowy hill.

As the snowflakes dance outside, we wrap up with heartwarming tales of practical home improvements and the peace of mind that comes with top-notch maintenance. Sure Top Roofing steps into our winter wonderland, not with a sleigh, but with promising solutions for that roof over your head, ensuring your shelter from the storm for decades. We cap it all off with a reminder to jot down those insurance mitigation strategies, ensuring that when Jack Frost nips at your nose, your home remains as warm and welcoming as the holiday spirit itself. Tune in, stay warm, and let the festive season be merry and bright with the Carolina Contractor Show by your side.

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Ever wondered how to choose the best energy supply for your home, or the differences between bat and blown-in insulation? Strap in as we continue our deep dive into home construction. Joined by Donnie Blanchard, owner of Sure Top Roofing Blanchard Building, we navigate through the ins and outs of energy options, debating the merits of gas, electric and solar. You'll find out why Donnie champions for electric heat and air conditioning over gas. Additionally, we have a special shoutout to Dennis from Builder Brigade, who graces us with valuable insights on new-age building materials and an indispensable home building checklist.

From insulation to siding, we arm you with necessary knowledge for your construction journey. Discover why spray foam insulation is a top choice for new builds and retrofits, and learn about popular vinyl siding styles, including straight lap and Dutch lap. But wait, there's more! We also discuss practical elements of home renovations, from the impact of accent walls to the right trim and casing for your rooms. We even delve into the world of plumbing and electrical fixtures, and offer savvy tips for finding affordable kitchen cabinets in a post-COVID market. Whether you're a seasoned builder or a novice renovator, this episode is loaded with invaluable advice.

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Ever wondered how the direction your door faces could impact your home? Or why the slope of your land affects your choice of foundation? Join us as we decode the essentials of house building with our guest expert, Donnie Blanchard, owner of Sure Top Roofing and Blanchard Building Co. As we journey from the ground up, Donnie shares his insights on selecting the right foundation, weighing in on the benefits of precast walls—especially for basements.

In this conversation, we also navigate the intricate world of doors and framing, discussing different materials and their pros and cons. Donnie shares his preference for stick framing and divulges why it is a game-changer for storage space. We then move into a discussion about the intricacies of OSB and plywood, and how these choices influence the sturdiness of your home. Finally, we cap off by discussing roofing choices, the importance of proper shingle installation, and how all these decisions could make or break your dream home. Tune in for an insightful discussion that promises to make your home-building experience a breeze!

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Ever wondered why your energy bills are soaring? We're letting you in on the biggest energy guzzlers in your home in this episode of the Carolina Contractor Show. It's no secret, your heating and air systems, alongside your water heater could be to blame. We're also sounding the alarm on the common causes of house fires and just why that fire extinguisher is worth its weight in gold. Pause for a moment and think about your beautiful house, we're talking about valuable ways to document it.

Our rollercoaster ride doesn't stop there. We're going to brave the elements together as we dig into essential seasonal maintenance. You'll learn why your hoses need to take a winter break and how a smart thermostat setting is a game-changer. We've got yearly tasks too that you can't afford to miss. Dry rot in your roof vents? Not on our watch. Dirty faucet aerators? We've got you covered. Lastly, we'll delve into preventative maintenance - those crucial tasks that keep your home running smoothly and your wallet from emptying. We'll wrap up with a dad joke that'll have you chuckling right into your next DIY project. So let's roll up our sleeves and get started. We promise you, it's going to be an enlightening ride!

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Ever wondered which household items guzzle up the most energy and spike your bills? Or, how a small fire extinguisher could potentially save your home from a raging inferno? Join your favorite hosts, Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, as we untangle these mysteries and more in our latest episode. We'll give you the inside scoop on the most downloaded topics from past episodes, including the future of construction, the pros and cons of stick-built versus modular homes, and the current trend of plated gold in home design. Buckle up as we also spill the beans about Donnie's upcoming appearance as a general contractor on a new TV show!

As we navigate this episode, fire safety and energy consumption in homes take center stage. Discover the leading causes of house fires and arm yourself with knowledge to minimize fire hazards. We'll also delve into the nitty-gritty of regular HVAC system servicing and the pivotal role of fire extinguishers. But that's not all! We'll also shed light on the top 10 energy-consuming items lurking in your home - from home entertainment systems on standby mode, energy-draining appliances, to the surprising energy appetite of water heaters. If you're planning to wave goodbye to sky-high energy bills, we'll guide you along with tips to be more energy-efficient. Stay tuned and embark on this journey with us to make your homes safer and greener. Don't forget, our website is always open to listen to past episodes and fire away your home-related questions.

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Ever wondered how to fortify your home for the harsh fall weather? Join us, Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, on the Carolina Contractor Show as we arm you with vital tips and strategies to withstand potential storm damages. We peel back the layers on insurance coverage, stressing the need to understand your policy inside out. You'll also get to appreciate the financial wisdom in taking on minor repairs yourself instead of triggering premium rate hikes.

Curious about how to stay warm and cozy when winter actually hits and the power fails? We've got you covered with our practical winter readiness guide. From essential items like generators, candles, to tips on preparing your driveways for icy conditions, we'll ensure you remain comfortable even when the weather outside is frightful. We also guide you through professional chimney cleaning, insulation checks, and help you weigh the pros and cons of different fireplace types.

In the final part of our show, we equip you with a comprehensive checklist to keep your home in top shape throughout the fall. We discuss everything from gutter cleaning, deck board checks, to innovative solutions like composite decking. Plus, learn how to spot and resolve drainage issues, winterize your hose bibs, and even keep away those annoying dirt dobers. With our insights, your home will be ready to take on the fall and winter seasons with confidence.

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Ever wondered whether you should don those gloves and tackle that home improvement project yourself or hire a pro instead? Ponder no more! Join us, your hosts Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, as we navigate the exciting terrain of home improvements. In our latest episode, we kick things off with a chat about how our Carolina weather can impact our work, and Donnie shares his intriguing stint as a general contractor on A&E's "5050 Flip". Oh, and a huge shoutout to all our listeners for the increased podcast downloads - your support is the fuel to our fire! Don't forget to visit our website for a nifty arrangement of show topics, our social media links, and the "Ask the Contractor" feature.

In the DIY vs Hiring a Pro ring, we arm you with some interesting statistics, and throw light on how millennials are leading the DIY charge. We also share our personal adventures of DIY appliance installations, from garbage disposals to toilets, and offer practical advice on when it's best to call in the big guns. Listen to our real-world experiences and get ready for a smorgasbord of useful insights and a hearty dose of fun. So, whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a professional, or just someone who enjoys a good home improvement chat, we've got you covered!

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Ever wondered which home projects you can DIY and when it's smarter to call in the pros? In our latest episode of The Carolina Contractor Show, we’re revealing all our hard-earned wisdom. As two seasoned contractors and outdoor enthusiasts, we, Donnie Blanchard and Eric Smith, navigate you through our day-to-day lives, from the challenges of working in sweltering summer heat to our favorite pastimes like grilling and fishing.

We zero in on when it's wise to hire a contractor for home improvement tasks. Learn about the perks of using an infrared grill for speedy and efficient cooking, the challenges of DIY appliance installation, and why a professional hand is essential for structural modifications, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical work. We stress the necessity of consulting with professionals and the value of multiple quotes before embarking on major home improvement projects.

On the topic of DIY, we examine the potential risks and rewards, especially when it comes to roofing. We'll help you balance the potential cost savings against factors like labor, warranties, and potential injuries. We wrap up by thanking you, our listeners, for the surging downloads and love you've shown us. We're excited to share more insights about the dynamic world of construction and DIY home renovations on The Carolina Contractor Show. Don't miss out!

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker  #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography  #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker  #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography  #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker  #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography  #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker  #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography  #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker  #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography  #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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This is the follow up episode featuring Dennis Comstock, the founder and General of Builder Brigade. Dennis has an amazing following of homeowners and contractors online and constantly cranks out quality content across all his social media platforms. He's well known for his famous checklist that literally outlines everything you can think of while building a new house. If you like construction, DIY, new products and building innovation, definitely want to check this one out!

You can check out Dennis' content on any social media platform by searching "Builder Brigade" or visit his website at www.BuilderBrigade.com

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

builderbrigade #construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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We have a very special episode featuring Dennis Comstock, the founder and General of Builder Brigade. Dennis has an amazing following of homeowners and contractors online and constantly cranks out quality content across all his social media platforms. He's well known for his famous checklist that literally outlines everything you can think of while building a new house. If you like construction, DIY, new products and building innovation, definitely want to check this one out!

You can check out Dennis' content on any social media platform by searching "Builder Brigade" or visit his website at www.BuilderBrigade.com

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

builderbrigade #construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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In this weeks episode we cover several tips you can implement this year to make your house work better and be more efficient! We cover several things like implementing SMART devices, making your home safe, indoor air quality, addressing the working parts of the house, a health check on your appliances and just a ton of good advice!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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We give a rundown on several things you need to address during the cold months...We also cover winter remodel ideas that can make your house comfy and save you big money!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to:

www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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A lot goes into buying a house, but it's not as hard as you might think!  Check out this episode where we talk about all of the options, market availability and financing options!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to:

www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We debunk the common myths associated with home ownership!  Home maintenance is a real thing, but you can do it!  Check it out....

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to:

www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Smart home technology dates back to the 90's....S.M.A.R.T. is actually an acronym for Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology. Tune into this week's episode to learn how it all got started, where we are now, and where it's going!  We break down smart devices  into categories and talk about the latest/greatest of what we have available today.  Also, we cover a few things that don't qualify as smart, but are smart to do around your house!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this special Halloween episode, we cover scary things that could happen to your house!  We outline scenarios, a diagnosis and a fix for several things that could be problematic if left unaddressed.  Check out this week's show to see how excess moisture, humidity and even asbestos can all be issues that are more common than you think!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We take a deep dive into several criteria that should impact your decision on choosing a contractor.  For a custom build, this is a long relationship!  in this episode, we emphasize the importance of choosing the right fit for you and your family....especially if you are building your forever house!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com
www.MARsupply.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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Hurricane Ian brought October in with a bang....There's no spinning it, this storm left a trail of destruction in it's wake. In this episode, we give play by play instructions on what to do if your house sustained damages. We cover the proper protocol on filing an insurance claim, and even what to do if you lost power!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com
www.MARsupply.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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We followed up last weeks episode with more upgrades for your home. Similar to last week, we broke these down into categories….this week we’ll run through Safety, Handicap Accessibility and Return On Investment. If you have infants, toddlers or just plan to age in place…this is the episode for you. We also have some good info on where you can get your money back and where you can’t, when spending money on home renovations. You don’t want to miss this one!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com
www.MARsupply.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this episode, we kick off a 2 part series where we outline a ton of upgrades for your home. We break these down into categories….and this week we cover Comfort, Convenience and Efficiency! We go through the entire house talking about things you can see and the stuff behind the walls that you can’t see! Very informative stuff!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com
www.MARsupply.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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We took this week to catch up on what makes this show go!  Our loyal listeners have been sending questions in about their homes for over 3 years now!   We appreciate each and every person who takes the time to interact....pleased to say that we have folks tuning in all over the country!  Keep'em coming guys and thanks again!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this episode, we highlight the current events surrounding the housing market and how we anticipate this thing to shake out! There hasn't been a more unique time in our life where home building and buying has boomed like recent....We also discuss things like the executive orders recently passed to incentivize domestic production of solar, the world's first carbon free concrete made from algae and a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your house this summer!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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We all have house projects in mind, but the truth is, those can’t happen until the financing is in place. If out of pocket isn’t an option, check out this weeks show where we talk about just how affordable it is to be proactive on getting those renovations done! The financing process is easy and the approval process is simple….we talk about programs to fit every budget. Check it out!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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Last week, we talked about the pros and cons of an all electric house and how 1 in 4 houses are already built this way!  This week we talk about all the components that make an electric house work!  We also discuss things you can do during the build to prepare for what’s coming.  This topic has generated quite the buzz…check it out!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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There has never been more incentive to electrify your house! With major innovations in insulation, heat pumps, appliances, solar and so much more, the way has been paved for the "All Electric" house to be the best option all the way around. We break down comparisons with pros and cons between electric and the gas alternatives that are out there. Tune in to find out how all the positives stack up in favor of electrifying your house!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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We catch up on all of our listener questions....thanks for sending those in!  We talk about everything from proper food storage to preferred basement wall types to getting rid of unwanted critters!  Also, we cover vented vs. vent free gas logs, the payback on spray foam and whether you should buy blue prints online or contact a local architect.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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It’s that time of year again! Wind, rain, tornadoes….you name it, we’ve had it! In this episode we talk about your first line of defense against the above mentioned storms….your roof! We cover everything from the advances in shingle technology to choosing a contractor and of course the differences in available warranties. Very informative if you are in the market to have your roof replaced….enjoy!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this episode, we had Jay Lowe on to talk about the ins/outs and innovations in the world of a surveyor! There's a lot to know to be successful in surveying, but if you like technology and the outdoors, this could be an interesting trade for you! We talk about how far the trade has come in 30 years....from a tripod to a robot, from a robot to a drone, etc. Good listen...check it out!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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We take a deep dive into which trades need qualified people more than ever!  The work is there, but the number of qualified candidates isn't!  We wrap up our 3 part series for folks interested in getting into construction.  We also give updates on interest rates, lumber prices, market predictions and more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this episode we highlight just about every construction job you can think of!  We break them down from best paying to highest demand to level of education required....definitely one of the most, in-depth, analysis we've given in a while.  Give it a listen, especially if you're interested in getting into construction!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this week's episode, we talk about the wide array of jobs in the construction industry.  We breakdown which careers require a university degree, a trade school, an apprenticeship or just plain ol' work experience!  If you've ever thought about getting into construction...this show is a good start!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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Very special episode this week. We brought in Krystal and Dedric Polite, stars of A&E's new show, 50/50 Flip. They explained their business model, how they got started and more importantly, where they plan to go with this. Tune in to hear what a motivated, hard working, power couple sounds like! To connect with Krystal and Dedric, visit their website BePoliteProperties.com. You can also keep up with them on their instagram @bepoliteproperties!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist #bepoliteproperties #5050flip

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In this episode, we had Max Hoover in studio to talk about all things to do with a stand-alone generator.  Max is the GM of Generator Supercenter and really gave some quality content on what everybody wants to know.  If you ever thought about have a generator installed or just had questions...you definitely want to check this out!  Good show!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this episode we cover tips for new homeowners...some things are obvious, but there's a lot you just don't think about!  We give you the step by step rundown on what you have to do up front and what you can do once you're settled in!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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If you did renovations to your home last year or plan on it this year, check out our rundown on what qualifies as a tax credit or deduction. We talk about the timeline, percentages and payback of each project that can save you thousands. Our loophole for writing off that home office should be especially helpful.

Our questions segment covers some good stuff, such as: Does Flex Seal really work as a permanent fix...what to do if you have a problem with your tile shower base...and why NOT to buy gutters from the big box stores to DIY.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this week's episode, we focus on new building products and materials that could change the way we've done things for a long time! The building science that has gone into the incredibly innovative products is amazing! We cover everything from the latest on solar shingles, to 3-D printing, to self-healing concrete and even smart windows!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

thecarolinacontractor #contractor #contractors #contractorsofinsta #ContractorLife #contractorsofinstagram #contractorslife #contractorsofig #contractorofinsta #construction #constructionlife #constructionsite #constructionworker #constructionzone #diy #builder #builders #buildersofIG #buildersofinsta #buildersworkshop #builderall #builderslife #buildersofinstagram #suretoproofing #remodel #smarthome #newconstruction #roofing #honeydolist

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In this weeks episode we cover several tips you can implement this year to make your house work better and be more efficient! We cover several things like implementing SMART devices, making your home safe, indoor air quality, addressing the working parts of the house, a health check on your appliances and just a ton of good advice!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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In this weeks episode, we address the elephant in the room. Everybody want to know where this vaccine mandate is going, so we brought in a legal expert to talk about it. Attorney, Brian Castro dropped in to discuss the ins and out of the pending mandates and how it could affect the construction industry. Very informative!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.MARsupply.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

construction #architecture #design #building #interiordesign #renovation #engineering #contractor #home #realestate #concrete #civilengineering #constructionlife #interior #builder #architect #homedecor #civil #heavyequipment #engineer #carpentry #house #art #constructionsite #homeimprovement #homedesign #tools #work #photography #bhfyp

roofing #remodel #constructionworker #business #build #o #excavator #arquitectura #instagood #project #safety #constructionequipment #civilengineer #carpenter #remodeling #architecturephotography #homerenovation #decor #property #architecturelovers #generalcontractor #steel #plumbing #diy #landscaping #demolition #contractorsofinstagram #contractorsofinsta #contractor #contractors #contractorlife

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We give a rundown on several things you need to address during the cold months...We also cover winter remodel ideas that can make your house comfy and save you big money!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We had property acquisition guru and real estate mogul Steven Andrews back on the show to talk about how he has flourished in a "Seller's Market", as well as a prediction for where he thinks we are trending in 2022.  We also cover the pros and cons of buying and flipping houses vs. buying and renting.  Lot's of good info in this episode....check it out!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We take the whole show to answer questions from our listeners.  We've had so many good topics and interesting guests lately, that we got behind airing out the very thing that makes the show go....our listener questions!  Thanks for all the interaction and support....Keep'em coming!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We take the whole show to answer questions from our listeners.  We've had so many good topics and interesting guests lately, that we got behind airing out the very thing that makes the show go....our listener questions!  Thanks for all the interaction and support....Keep'em coming!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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The voice of he Carolina Panthers took a 30 minute break from Bank of America Stadium  to talk about the finished product that was his 100+ year old remodel and forever home!  We also talk about the energy around a surging Panthers team and the unfolding story of the return of Cam Newton to the Queen City!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Now that half of the country has acclimated to working from home, the question is, what's the best way to do it?  If productivity is the key....we fill you in on several things that will make your "Working from Home" experience, the best it can be!  We cover everything from layout and design, to Zoom meeting backdrops, lighting and paint colors.  In the second segment, we discuss internet connection tips, noise control and how to deduct a home office on your taxes!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this special Halloween episode, we cover scary things that could happen to your house!  We outline scenarios, a diagnosis and a fix for several things that could be problematic if left unaddressed.  Check out this week's show to see how excess moisture, humidity and even asbestos can all be issues that are more common than you think!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We discuss the best building practices from each trade. There are small things that make a big difference when it come to the foundation, framing and finishes in a house.   Check out our rundown on what you need to know when building a house!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Check it out....or check it off rather!  We start out this week with a rundown on what to do after a hurricane affects your area in response to the busy hurricane season we’ve had.  Also, listen in to catch our annual fall checklist for your house 🍁🍂 

Our listener questions were outstanding this week.  Here’s what we cover....
The breakdown on radiant barrier and if it is ok to use as a roofing underlayment
What to do about a sink that has a bad odor
Tips for things to incorporate into a house plan during the design phase
The R-values of different building products

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Smart home technology dates back to the 90's....S.M.A.R.T. is actually an acronym for Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology. Tune into this week's episode to learn how it all got started, where we are now, and where it's going!  We break down smart devices  into categories and talk about the latest/greatest of what we have available today.  Also, we cover a few things that don't qualify as smart, but are smart to do around your house!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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In the construction world...especially in the south, there’s a debate over Modular vs. Stick-built.  It’s not just a debate over costs...there’s efficiency, quality, aesthetics and resale values to take into account.  Listen to this week’s episode to get the rundown on both options!  

Our questions segment covers Public Adjusters....what they are and when you might need one?  Driveway resurfacing options and how old building styles yielded conflicts between the overhangs and windows...check it out!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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A very special episode of the Carolina Contractor Show, where we feature guest host, Karen Conklin.  Karen is a life support instructor who specializes in teaching new families how to design and prep their houses for a new baby...as well as what to do when they start walking!  She also covers some important points on handicapped accessibility whether you move the in-laws in or take the "Age in Place" route.  We were thrilled with all of the good information she brought to the show! 

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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The good Doctor graced us with his time in this week's episode.  We discussed how to maintain the safest work environment between homeowners and contractors.  We also talk about the effectiveness of increased and improved ventilation.  Dr. Peden gives other updates on things on everybody's front burner, like the recent FDA approval and a precise explanation on the variants we are seeing.  So much information here...you might have to listen twice!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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With all of the uncertainty in our industry, we take a few minutes to elaborate on what to look for in the immediate future, as well as what to expect in the distant and far future.  The population is growing fast...and all those people are going to need a place to live.   Listen in on this episode to see how it all ties together!

We finally got some of our listener questions answered at the end of the show.  We talk about how to battle garage heat in the summer months, structural recommendations for a slate roof, how to pick the best insurance company for you and more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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This week, we have level 3 building inspector Jim Lloyd on the show to explain what's involved with pulling a permit.  We give a list of things you'll need to take into consideration before going through the application process.  We also talk about the best resource to use when it comes to selecting plans, as well as being your own contractor....tons of good info!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this weeks episode, we cover several reason why now is a great time to remodel your house or an investment property.  The gap between costs and return has never been bigger!  We talk about the ins and outs of doing it yourself vs. hiring a contractor.  Also...details on how to find the Cost vs. Value Report for your zip code.  Lot's of other details you don't want to miss!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this week's episode,, we cover exactly what to do after a hurricane hits.  Also, a few tips on things you can do to make sure you're ready for this hurricane season!  There's a lot to do from documenting the condition, to knowing the right information to have regarding your insurance company.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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So you bought a house built in the 80's....now what?  In this episode, we talk about what was common to see with construction 40 years ago.  We also talk upgrades and where you should put your focus if you're remodeling.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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Very informative episode on silicone and acrylic coatings for low slope commercial buildings.  Nick Stewart is the seasoned vet of all things low slope coatings.  He clears the air on several key points that folks should knows regarding this roofing system as an option.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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Material prices and shortages are a real thing this year.  We have guest host, Ron Cooke with GAF, on the show this week to talk about what's going on behind the scenes, what happened and what he expects in the future regarding material availability.  We also discuss what's trending in the roofing industry and several do's and don't when getting a roof replacement.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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We've had a ton of questions come through the website regarding what is going on with lumber prices.   We dedicated a whole show around answering those and talk about how the increase in material prices in relation to current and future interest rates.  Also dive into what's going on behind the scenes and what the market is trending toward.  the last half of this year might just be a sweet spot to build.

Our questions segment covers the importance of using a certified contractor for your roofing job, selling your house right now while the market is hot and the math on how lumber price increases compare to low interest rate savings.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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We had a fascinating guest this week....Anne of All Trades came on the show to talk about her life and her story.  Her take on disappearing life skills is worth the listen.  If you want to be encouraged, download this episode!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
www.VeluxUSA.com

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One of the most interesting homeowner hobby's out there is bee keeping!  Whether on a large or small scale, it is fascinating to have a thriving hive right there in your yard.  In this week's episode, Scott Oakley gives the rundown on what's involved and how to get started!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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In our follow up show to outdoor kitchen, we lead off with grill tips/hacks that you can put to use this summer! We transition to the most important part of your house in the summer...your air condition! We talk about how you can make sure your system is working properly as we ease into these hot summer months. Also, warning signs to look for and the repercussions of not doing your due diligence.
The second part of the show covers a common problem we all share in summer....pest control! We break down a series of natural preventatives and then the chemical approach. We throw out some good ideas and situations for both.

Our questions segment covers some good stuff...for example, why buzzards perch on roof ridges, advice on installing a smart thermostat and what to do about squirrels in your attic!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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Roger Mooking, host of "Man Fire Food" on the Cooking Channel dropped in for an episode that's perfect with summer right around the corner!  Roger talks outdoor kitchen setup...everything from function to preferred materials.  He also touches on his favorite dishes and the best way to cook your favorites!  You don't want to miss this!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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This week, we had, Mitch Kindley, one of the top home inspectors in the area, come on the show and talk about the inspection process, what to do before you call a home inspector, etc.  Very informative, especially if you're entertaining selling your home in the next year or so!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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When you realize that a pandemic can change our everyday life....the question is, how do we fight back?  This might be the most important show topic we’ve ever covered.  Listen in to see how changes you can make to your home or business can make a big difference!

🟠Copper and it’s alloys, like brass and bronze, are likely to become the new standard in construction.  Any virus that comes in contact with these antimicrobial surfaces is killed within a few minutes...and the process is fascinating🤯  Check out our list of ways you can retrofit your house and more importantly, lower the chances of virus transmission between you and your tribe.  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com
www.DesignerShingle.com
www.GAF.com
Wwww.VeluxUSA.com

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Check out part 2 of the most searched words in our industry.   Lots of info on siding including the history on how Hardie has become the name in fiber cement.  We also talk new construction and renovation.

Our questions segment has a few goodies, such as....Is a roofer required to have a general contractors license?    What are the differences in Eastern Red Cedar and Western Red Cedar?  What is the best way to repair a broken window pane?

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com 

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Tune in to hear about the top google searches for construction and DIY projects.  We give a quick rundown on what you need to know about each search word.  We only made it through half of our list, so check out next week's show for part 2.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com 

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www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Listen in to this week’s show on what you need to do around the house to make sure everything is up to par! 

In our questions segment, we cover ways to get reclaimed wood for remodeling, how to get more pressure from your shower head, a sagging drywall problem and the rundown on having a kitchen sink disposal on a septic system.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com 

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www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We've done a couple of shows recently about what tax deductible home improvements qualify for a deduction or credit.  We had a special guest host, Tom Jones, on this week to explain just how that works and also how to document everything properly.  Mr. Jones is a former IRS auditor and current tax professional.  He explains everything from tax credits to payments to the state on ITIN workers...you don't want to miss this one! 

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We Help You Get to Know Your House Better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We Help You Get to Know Your House Better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this week's episode, we talk about what we would do different if  we could build our house over again.  We start at the bottom and work our way up!

Regretfully, we didn't get to listener questions in the segment, but we'll catch up next week.  Keep'em coming!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We Help You Get to Know Your House Better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We start off with the information you need to report potential tree and power line conflicts to the NC utility commissioner.  Since we've been talking about renewable energy a lot...we saw it fitting to comment on the wind turbines freezing in Texas.  We did our homework and shared our opinion on the situation.  Lastly we cover how to survive a power outage with just a portable generator and how to stay prepared!

In our listener questions segment, we talk about the pros and cons of tankless water heaters, we also cover which insurance companies we recommend and how the type of adjusters they use impact a claim settlement, and we close it out with our take on Energy Star rated shingles to cool down your attic space....hint, radiant barrier is better and cheaper!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We Help You Get to Know Your House Better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Last week's interview with immunologist, Dr. David Peden was so informationally packed, that we didn't get to cover the Doc's thoughts on the coming changes to HVAC systems.  He was gracious enough to join us for a second week to discuss all thing indoor air quality, purification and filtration.  If you're like me...you'll probably have to listen twice to take everything in.  Very content rich show!

In our questions segment, we cover how to tell if the hardware in your house is real copper, brass on bronze.  Also, recommended MERV ratings for all applications, residential and commercial....and lastly we talk about latest alternative to an underground fence for your pets.  This new GPS controlled "Smart Fence" is a game changer!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We Help You Get to Know Your House Better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We had the Doc back to give us an update on where we are with COVID-19 at this point, the 3 vaccines & the new strains.  He dives deep on how the vaccines actually work and realistic expectations are in the coming days.  

We were honored to give our platform to someone who had answers to the questions on everybody's front burner!  Grateful to Dr. Peden for his insight and look forward to speaking with him on next week's program regarding HVAC modification to help combat the spread of ALL viruses!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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In this episode, we cover things as simple as surfaces that are priority when cleaning, to changes that can be made to your HVAC unit for better indoor air quality.  We also touch on copper, bronze and brass’ ability to kill ALL viruses.  (SIDE NOTE:  We did a whole show on copper and it’s alloy’s ability to kill viruses and how it works “The Copper Show” - Spring 2020). If you have family members of all ages at home, who all live on different schedules, this is the podcast for you!

Our questions segment covers some good stuff, such as:  Metal roof fastener options, the right temperature for your water heater,  finishing  a bonus room over you garage and ways to retrofit soundproof insulation.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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If you did renovations to your home last year or plan on it this year, check out our rundown on what qualifies as a tax credit or deduction.  We talk about the timeline, percentages and payback of each project that can save you thousands.  Our loophole for writing off that home office should be especially helpful.  

Our questions segment covers some good stuff, such as: Does Flex Seal really work as a permanent fix...what to do if you have a problem with your tile shower base...and why NOT to buy gutters from the big box stores to DIY.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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The Subdivision Dad Gang (SDG) sent us several photos of their Christmas gifts and we talk about all the pros and cons of all the options.  We dive deep on where battery and solar technology is going in the future and when the best time would be to buy that 20 piece, battery powered tool kit!

Our listener questions segment covers the differences in caulking and silicone sealants, what to know about solar panels vs. solar collectors, how to pick out a bathroom fan and the rundown on double pane vs. triple pane windows.  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Our guest host, Josh Fargis, with Boer Brothers Heating & Air, stopped by the studio to talk all things HVAC.  He covers his recommendations on types of systems, but also talks about the other factors like comfort and indoor air quality.

Our questions segment covers some good content...such as, the future of HVAC systems, fresh air intakes, SEER ratings and HVAC servicing.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Whether you live in a $1,000,000 or a $100,000 house, these things are the same.  We outline a step by step process you can do to drastically improve your home and lower your utility costs....and the thing is, it’s easier than you think!

In our questions segment, we talk about the differences between fixtures that come from the big box stores vs. the supply house, the rundown on manufacturers warranty claims with shingles and so much more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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Check out our winterization list you that can’t find on the internet!   We also cover winter remodel ideas that can make your house comfy and save you big money!

Finally catching up on listener questions....we talk ridge ventilation and why it doesn’t jive with gable vents as well as the differences in metal roof types.  Also, what can happen when a house shrinks and swells during a seasonal temperature change.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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We tailored this weeks show around a house we designed over a decade ago, before net zero was a thing!  Soil engineer, Allen Hughes, is the guest host who talks about energy efficiency upgrades that are outside of the box, but still realistic.  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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A recent political platform stated the goal of their administration is to be carbon neutral by 2035 and net zero by 2050.  We weigh in heavy to talk about the ins and outs of this plan and if it’s realistic.

We also cover exactly what it takes to build a net-zero house and the recommended steps to get there!  We cover a lot of ground in this episode...so much so, that we didn’t have time to cover listener questions.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com 

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This week’s episode goes into detail on the building code’s history and It’s evolution into what we have today.  

In segment 2, we had some great questions to answer this week....Such as: How Duck tape became a household name.  What to do about a vapor barrier in your crawl space and the pros and cons of pressure washing algae from the north slope of a roof!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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www.GAF.com

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We talk about how you can spend a few thousand dollars that could save you $100K over the lifespan of a 30 year mortgage.  The recipe to save up to $200 per month isn’t rocket science....you just have to do it!  This show is information packed!

Our questions segment covers dehumidifiers vs. humidifiers, OSB vs. real plywood, structural wood replacement after a leak and lots of homeowner’s insurance advice🤓

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

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www.VeluxUSA.com

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We start out this week with a rundown on what to do after a hurricane affects your area in response to the busy hurricane season we’ve had.  Also, listen in to catch our annual fall checklist for your house 🍁🍂 

Our listener questions were outstanding this week.  Here’s what we cover....
The breakdown on radiant barrier and if it is ok to use as a roofing underlayment
What to do about a sink that has a bad odor
Tips for things to incorporate into a house plan during the design phase
The R-values of different building products

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We break down the 3 main types of foundations commonly used in single family construction.  When we get to basements, we talk about the 3 main options to consider.

Our questions segment covers some good stuff...like, mold around ceiling registers, the difference between building code and manufacturer recommendations, hand nailing shingles vs. pneumatic nail gun, and how to keep the neighbor’s dog from using the bathroom in your yard🐶

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

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www.VeluxUSA.com

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The breakdown on the pros and cons of using contractor finder services like Angie’s List & Home Advisor.  We explain a BETTER way to find the right contractor that will guarantee you’ll have a job done well🤯

In segment 2, we answer questions about remedying hardwood floor squeaks, the differences in contractor certification credentials, and a scenario where exterior window shades are going to save one of our listeners a lot of money🤑

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

www.BigBlueRestoration.com

www.VeluxUSA.com

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

www.GAF.com

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This episode focuses on concrete construction.  Everything from how it's made to the many uses  is covered in the first segment.  
We also talk about the best time of the year to get a new roof installed, what to look for in an outdoor movie theater set up, and the pros and cons of houses with stairs.  Check it out!
The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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The earthquake in western NC last week was the strongest we’ve had in over 100 years...needless to say, it really shook things up! We open the conversation on how buildings are designed in the US vs. Japan(10x more quakes) and explain the concept behind base isolation foundations. Very informative episode, if you want to be in the know, in terms of how we may integrate building techniques being pioneered in other parts of the world.

We had a flurry of great question come in this week, including how to get “instant” hot water on a fixture...not to be confused with hot water “on-demand”. There’s a big difference! How to assess vulnerable places in your insulation package....convective and conductive heat transfer are the 2 ways to look at every situation. Also, do black shingles get hotter that other colors? Why architects spec out expensive materials not realistic on a budget and lastly, the options when choosing spray foam insulation!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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We talk about saving money with insulation & HVAC, but don’t give a lot of thought to appliance turnover.  Having to prematurely replace appliances could be measured in thousands...
Our guest on the program is Brandon Porterfied, owner of The Appliance Doctor, and he discusses the ins and outs of each appliance in your home.  He also covers gas vs. electric appliances and which brands he prefers.   theappliancedr2@outlook.com

The question segment of the show covers what to do about dirt daubers this time of the year and the timely topic of getting more ventilation in your garage.
The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

www.DesignerShingle.com

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August 2020 marks our 2 year anniversary for the show!  Thank you to all of our listeners!  Your support makes the show go🙏  In this episode, we discuss what it means to be a house doctor.  There are so many parallels between your house and body.  Everything from structural components to the way we’re wired is really similar!

In the questions segment, we dive into a lengthy explanation of how COVID-19 will impact the way HVAC systems will be designed to prevent airborne virus transmission.  Also, what differentiates different levels of granite countertops....

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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www.GAF.com

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In this episode, we start with a story about a recent roof collapse and how a cut corner was the culprit. Then, we work our way from the foundation to the exterior listing common areas to watch for a cut corner. It happens a lot more than you realize, so being in the know could save you a headache down the road!

In our questions segment, we cover some awesome listener questions....such as, common problems with your HVAC in the summer. Does you need more insulation, is your system undersized, or does your unit just need to be serviced? What to do with land line jacks you don’t use anymore? Why do plumbing pipe require vents through the roof? How to take care of a water stain on your ceiling without bringing a painter into the house...AND several things to consider when picking out a tile! Through-body color, coefficient of friction and more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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www.GAF.com

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The voice of the Carolina Panthers, Mick Mixon joins us to discuss a massive building project he and his wife have undertaken.  We were fortunate enough to work with them on their project and be a part of making their dream home, a reality.  We talk about the ins and outs of the project, along with how Mick came through UNC with Woody Durham.  He also gives us a full rundown on the freshly overhauled roster of the Carolina Panthers....so good to talk sports again!  It was an honor to officially make the Carolina Contractor/Panther connection!  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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When building a house, there are several options that are more important than others.  What has to happen during the initial construction process vs. what can be remodeled down the road.  From the foundation to the roof, we cover where you should save and where you should spend those budget dollars.  

Check out the 2nd segment where we give a comprehensive countertop comparison, address which designer shingle is the best bang for the buck, sticking doors, and why we add rebar to concrete for "Reinforcement"

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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In last weeks show, we were honored to have one of the most well known immunologist in the country on our show to discuss COVID-19.  This week the Doc came back to dive a little deeper into best practices should you need work done on the interior of your home.  He also covers job-site protocol, indoor air quality with HVAC systems, how copper surfaces are anti-microbial, and how what we’re going through will affect the fire code.  Tune in to find out what Dr. Peden says is his biggest take away from the country’s recent reaction to COVID-19....

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY.  Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know.  The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money.  Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.”  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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I got called out to jobsite inspection last week and little did I know I would meet one of the most influential people in the state, as well as the country. Our guest, Dr. David Peden, is a pediatric allergist and immunologist, as well as the Senior Associate Dean for Translational Research at the School of Medicine. In other words, in the phrase “Straight from the horse’s mouth”...He’s the horse! It was very enlightening to hear about Covid-19 from someone other than the news media.
Dr. Peden talks about his time as a student of Dr. Fauci, and breaks down how his study in immunology, makes him a man who’s area of expertise is needed more than ever. He specializes in corona viruses and lung biology, which both heavily tied to the current pandemic. Listen in, as he covers how essential workers should cohabitate with non-essential workers, proper protocol for protective equipment on and off the jobsite, and so much more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better.” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

www.SuretopRoofing.com

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www.GAF.com

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www.VeluxUSA.com

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When you realize that a pandemic can change our everyday life....the question is, how do we fight back? This might be the most important show topic we’ve ever covered. Listen in to see how changes you can make to your home or business can make a big difference!

🟠Copper and it’s alloys, like brass and bronze, are likely to become the new standard in construction. Any virus that comes in contact with these antimicrobial surfaces is killed within a few minutes...and the process is fascinating🤯 Check out our list of ways you can retrofit your house and more importantly, lower the chances of virus transmission between you and your tribe.

Our listener questions segment covers some great questions like the ins and outs of a solar water heater powered radiant heat floor, the best and most economical way to change a broken glass pane in a broken window, General Contractor license requirements...differences in VA vs NC requirements, and Western Red Cedar vs Eastern Red Cedar🌲

Be well and stay safe everybody🙏 This too shall pass!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction and DIY. Our goal is to cover topics important for homeowners who want to be in the know. The show is tailored around home maintenance, innovation, seasonal tips and several ways you can save money. Our slogan is that “We help you get to know your house better” Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed General Contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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What are you going to do with all of this free time at home?  Listen in to this week’s show on what you need to do around the house to make sure everything is up to par!  Eric also provides a great pointer on how to prevent pollen on a screened porch!

In our questions segment, we cover ways to get reclaimed wood for remodeling, how to get more pressure from your shower head, a sagging drywall problem and the rundown on having a kitchen sink disposal on a septic system.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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This show is all about the next generation!  We discuss what the next wave of contractors need to be aware of when coming out of school with a construction degree.  An intern from the construction program at ECU gives us his rundown on what he likes about the program, what he’s learning and how he learns best👷🏼‍♂️  Check out a whole show on “If I knew then, what I know now”

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We welcomed the local guys from Big Blue Restoration this week to talk about what you do in the case of an emergency!  There are do’s and don’t s for a homeowner, when it comes to insurance.  Mike Anderson and Zach Davenport give the rundown on your responsibilities as a homeowner, in a disaster situation.  MITIGATE YOUR DAMAGES!  

We go through each part of the house that may be prone to a covered peril, like pipe bursts, house fires, etc.  We also talk preventative measures and safety tips to give yourself the best chance not to avoid a bad circumstance.   We cover a few disaster mitigation scenarios and cover what you do after the fact.  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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What's all the craze about the ZIP system?  What, exactly, is a SIP or structural insulated panel?  How can you accomplish the same thing with traditional framing?  Tune into this week's program to get answers on all of the above!  Also, how to retrofit an existing building envelope to improve your efficiency.

In our questions segment, we unfold a worst case plumbing scenario, how insurance coverage works when upgrading to an architectural shingle and what to do when replacing masonite siding with fiber cement.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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What in the world is Hempcrete?  In our constant search for the latest, greatest building products...we found the next big thing in masonry!  Hempcrete is made from the hemp stalk mixed with lime and water.  Listen in to find out more about the product and just how many uses it has!

Also featured in this episode, are construction exoskeletons👀  What was originally intended to help folks with rehabilitation has crossed party lines and landed in the construction world with a boom.  These exoskeletons are becoming increasingly affordable with every year that passes and we believe it will become common to see on job sites in the near future.  

Our listener questions segment covers a condition called “Air Hammer” in copper pipes, proper removal of a masonry chimney, structural cracks in a foundation and how insurance  companies handle damage occurring on neighboring properties....very informative! 

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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In this episode we feature a product that is revolutionary in the world of concrete repair.  It’s called Xypex and the science behind it is fascinating.  I found out about the product when someone told me you could waterproof a basement wall from the inside.  This product actually penetrates the cracks that cause leaks and fills in the cracks with crystal structures...and so much more!

Our questions segment covers HVAC Q&A regarding rooms that are cold, air distribution solutions and tonnage calculations.  Also, the basics on changing copper pipes to PEX and the average build times on a custom home vs. a track built.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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Our guest host this week was property guru Steven Andrews.  Steven went from 2 rental houses to 175 in less than a decade.  Check out this weeks show to listen in on how he did it, as well as advice to folks who want to pursue this as a career opportunity.  You don’t want to miss this!

Our questions segment covers interest rates, a seller’s market, price per square foot and several reasons why now is a good time to build.  We also talk about roofing issues like ridge vent, putting a new roof over the old shingles and how long you can patch before replacing.  Our breakdown on gutter guards is intended to steer you  toward the best option depending on your landscape.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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If you’re going to put money into your house, you want to get it back!  We cover what you can do to your house to improve the value AND....improve your quality of life!  Return on investment (ROI) is of utmost importance when you’re deciding how to improve your living space.  Check out what you can do that will pay you back....and then some!  

We also cover construction oriented family activities, an invention in India that could be a game changer for providing electricity to places it wasn’t previously wasn’t available, and just how much oxygen an acre of hemp produces vs. an entire forest🤯

Our questions segment breaks down the difference between vinyl (PVC) and composite (TREX) handrails, home maintenance differences between the north and south elevations of your home...and the science behind the porous nature of brick and other masonry materials.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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In this episode we start out with search result numbers from Google...find out what everybody in searching for in home improvement!  Our topic covers things you can do to your house to combat those nasty germs and viruses.  Indoor air quality is very important this time of the year....we discuss how to make sure yours is under control.  We even talk about “Dirty Sock Syndrome”...yes, it is a thing!

In our questions segment, we discuss fastener placement with metal roofing...preference vs. what is recommended, optimal temperatures for water heaters, finishing a bonus room and retrofitting sound-proof insulation!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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While everyone is breaking for the holidays, there’s no better time to do a maintenance inspection on your house!  You don’t have to be a home inspector to spot the obvious!  In this episode we start with the roof and work our way to the foundation.  Preventative maintenance is a great thing to avoid potentially big ticket problems!

In our questions segment, we cover solar panels scams, overcharging batteries, designer shingles and net-zero houses...very cool!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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In our latest episode, we cover several Christmas gift ideas for Dad or the DIY’er in your house.  There’s also a nice rundown on what to expect from TV’s in the near and far future!

Our listener-questions segment had some good topics, such as:  the legal implications of waiving a deductible for an insurance claim, how LVL’s compare in size to dimensional lumber, what to do if your builder went out of business and if you should have ridge vent without the appropriate amount of soffit ventilation.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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A change is coming!  GAF is changing the game with their new Timberline HDZ shingle.  It looks, feels and costs the same as the original Timberline, but a small tweak in the manufacturing process has improved this architectural shingle on so many levels!  Tune in to get the rundown from our GAF territory manager, Ron Cooke.  Ron covers the ins and outs of the manufacturing process and why these changes are so significant...you don’t want to miss this one!

Our questions segment has some great content this week, such as:  All the uses around your house for WD-40...and just how it became a household name, how to open a door with a broken lockset, why there’s a little play on a tape measure hook and what building materials don’t jive...such as, treated wood/aluminum, dissimilar metals and more!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We connect the dots on the latest in the hemp and building industries.  Our feature is a company who has a patent on the processing of “Hemp Wood”. It is truly fascinating to see the uses of a product that is 20% stronger than oak and grown 100 times faster...literally!  We give a rundown of hemp flooring, as well as laminate, hardwood and tile flooring.

In our questions segment, we cover water alarms and freeze sensors, the pros and cons of epoxy garage coatings and stud finding on a whole other level.  We provide a few tips and tricks that anyone can do around the house.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We start the show of with news updates on architect licensing requirement and the Duke Energy solar credit starting in 2020.  We transition to a segment devoted to construction terminology and why these terms are important to know when dealing with contractors.  

Our listener questions segment rocked this week...we covered water heater sizing per person for a family, OSB vs. Plywood, how to remove wallpaper, and lastly, how to keep dogs from using the bathroom in your yard🤷🏻‍♂️

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We were hired to design a hybrid “Safe Room/Storm Shelter” for a client.  Find out how we got started, where we got our info and how we are taking this super-cool challenge...head on!  In segment one, we also cover the change in continuing education requirements for all general contractors starting next year.

Segment 2 questions covers several relevant HVAC topics for this time of year, such as:  investing in SEER rating vs. multi-stage and zoning, electrical heat vs. gas heat (heat pump vs. gas pack).  We also unfold a leak detective story on what turned out to be a breached pipe, instead of the roof!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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In the construction world...especially in the south, there’s a debate over Modular vs. Stick-built.  It’s not just a debate over costs...there’s efficiency, quality, aesthetics and resale values to take into account.  Listen to this week’s episode to get the rundown on both options!  

Our questions segment covers Public Adjusters....what they are, and are they legit?  Driveway resurfacing options and how old building styles yielded conflicts between the overhangs and windows...

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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So you think you want to flip a house🤷🏻‍♂️🏠  In this week’s episocde, we cover the ins and outs of flipping a house.  They make it look easy on TV...so we talk about what to be aware of before you get into it and what to do after you get started....you don’t want to miss this one!

Our listener questions touched on hand nailing vs. nail guns, the pros of upgrading to 6” gutters and what to know about your HVAC system before firing your heat up for the first time this year.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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The breakdown of the pros and cons in using contractor finder services like Angie’s List & Home Advisor.  We explain a BETTER way to find the right contractor that will guarantee you’ll have a job done well🤯

In segment 2, we answer questions about remedying hardwood floor squeaks, the differences in contractor certification credentials, and a scenario where exterior window shades are going to save one of our listeners a lot of money🤑

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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This week’s episode goes into detail on the building code’s history and It’s evolution into what we have today.  In segment 2, we had some great questions to answer this week....Such as: How Duck tape became a household name.  What to do about a vapor barrier in your crawl space and the pros and cons of pressure washing algae from the north slope of a roof!

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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What in the world is aesbestos?  Why should you be aware?  What do you look for?  This episode covers the ins and outs of aesbestos building products and why they are dangerous!  You don’t want to miss this!
Detached garages are huge right now...see what we recommend regarding design and general pointers....maybe a little man-cave/she-shed talk.  The deal with Synthetic underlayment vs. Tar paper on a roof...Renovated mill apartments...and RCV vs. ACV with insurance claims.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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In this episode we discuss choosing a contractor or sub-contractor....as well as the differences between the 2.  We cover the details of the appropriate insurance coverages and required licensing for project over a certain dollar amount.

We also talk about roof covering in high wind zones, whole house fans, the significance of air changes per hour and basement waterproofing.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We start out this week with a rundown on what to do after a hurricane affects your area in response to the most recent landfalling hurricane, Dorian.  Listen in to catch our annual fall checklist for your house 🍁🍂 
Our listener questions were outstanding this week.  A list of things we cover are:
The breakdown on radiant barrier and if it is ok to use as a roofing underlayment
What to do about a sink that has a bad odor
Tips for things to incorporate into a house plan during the design phase
The R-values of different building products

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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With a hurricane looming, we talked about generators and what to consider before buying in this weeks episode of The Carolina Contractor Show.  We hit the high spots to get you started on your generator hunt.

We also cover low maintenance materials for your exterior, building code vs. warranty requirement with roof installations, 3-tab vs. architectural shingles, and how much insulation is enough.

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

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We used a whole show to catch up on some listener questions.  Tune in to hear a Q&A that covers topics across the board.  

As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com  

The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.

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The Carolina Contractor Show covers all things construction.  We aim to highlight the latest technologies, products and building codes to keep homeowners or homebuyers up to speed with the current market.  Our listener submitted questions are answered each week by host and licensed general contractor, Donnie Blanchard.
Check out this week's episode where we tackle one of the toughest issues facing the construction industry today...labor shortage!  Listen in to find out about the latest bill proposed to help facilitate training, education and apprenticeships that will usher in the new wave of workers in our field.
Our listener questions submitted cover the differences between vented and vent-free gas logs, choosing the right insurance company before hurricane season, water run-off problems around your house and retrofitting a conditioned crawl space.
As always, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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Very interesting show where we cover the importance of duct sealing.  That said, there's a new product on the market that seals duct work from the inside and the technology behind it is amazing!  You can have a well insulated house with a high efficiency HVAC system, and still be spinning your wheels if you have leaky ductwork!   www.Aeroseal.com

We also cover the best way to finish and preserve wrought iron handrails, how to check your home for adequate insulation per today's building code standards and how to successfully building on a heavily wooded lot!

Please don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions for the show at www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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Holy smokes this was a good one!  We had Justin Maycher on this week to explain all things pertaining to low slope roofing.  You would never guess that commercial roofing could be so interesting!  He explains the technological advancements in the products to result in what we have today.  Also talked about were insulation and warranty options, as well as the latest, greatest advancements in roof coatings.  If you are a building owner, renter or potential buyer, you don’t want to miss this.

We also “clear the air” on the differences between carbon monoxide, propane and natural gas.  A listener question came in regarding retrofitting brick veneer on a house that currently has vinyl siding and the type of gutter guards you should install before the fall.

As always, subscribe to our podcast and don’t forget to submit your listener questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com.  Thank you so much for the support everybody!

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This weeks episode is focused on safety...around the house and on the job site.  There are lots of things that need to be taken into consideration, no matter how big or small your project is.  We also cover energy audits/retrofits, HVAC summer issues and the best way to paint and maintain a church steeple.  
Please subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and Google and submit your questions to www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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This episode focuses on concrete construction.  Everything from how it's made to the many uses  is covered in the first segment.  We also talk about the best time of the year to get a new roof installed, what to look for in an outdoor movie theater set up, and the pros and cons of houses with stairs.  Check it out!
Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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This episode breaks down all things metal roofing.  Our guest host, Derek Savage with Precision Metals, talks about what you need to know as a supplier, contractor and consumer.  There is more to metal than meets the eye...literally!
We also cover gas vs. electric in the average home, ideas to declutter your garage, humidity issues in the summer and more!
Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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Our latest episode is tailored around July 4th weekend🇺🇸💥  We cover all kinds of backyard projects that will make your home more enjoyable.  Our listener question segment has a detailed breakdown on ceramic vs. porcelain tile, reusing existing step flashing, where and why plywood and hurricane clips are used, and aluminum roofing for coastal homes.  
Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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A question turns into a topic when we address all options during the home building process.  From the foundation to your roof, we cover where you should save and where you should spend those budget dollars.  

Check out the 2nd segment where we give a comprehensive countertop comparison, address which designer shingle is the best bang for the buck, sticking doors, and why we add rebar to concrete for "Reinforcement"

Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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Very unique episode where we cover all things solar shingles.  Where they are in development, how soon they will be financially realistic and of course, how they look!  Guest host Christopher Matkins delivers a very thorough and interesting rundown.  
We also talk about DIY projects vs. when you need a licensed GC, the best way to cool down a hot attic, and more! 
Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and submit your questions to:
www.TheCarolinaContractor.com

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In this Father’s Day weekend episode, we cover so much interesting stuff! 
 Eric issues a warning from the NCDOJ regarding out of town roofers.  We highlight a new building product called Tstuds, that we believe, will be a game changer.  
 Listen in to see what the best exterior products are to use for your boxing and trim, as well as what to do in the event of a summer power outage☀️🏠
 As always...you can submit your questions for future shows at www.TheCarolinaContractor.com 

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In this episode , we cover how to vacation proof your house this summer as well as a warm weather checklist to go through now that the season has officially changed.  One of our listeners submitted a question about renovations that yield the largest return on investment...in other words, what are you going to spend with a payback vs. what you spend to just enjoy.  Click here for a listen!

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In this episode, we cover exactly what to do after a hail storm just like the one that hit our area this past week.  Our guest host is Matt Silvis from Velux skylights.  You'd never guess how many fascinating fact and options there are with skylights.  We touch on a roof-over vs. a clean deck install, as well as how to inspect your deck for structural integrity.  Check us out on iTunes for more episodes and don't forget to tune in next week.  Thank everybody!

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We have our very own "in-house" warranty expert, Tony Fogleman with us on this episode.  Tony explains just how the shingles we use qualifies for a 50 yr. warranty.  We also cover the ideal home design for our region of the southeast, engineered lumber and how to save money on your utilities.  Tune in to hear some really good topics.

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In this episode, we start with a segment on roof ventilation and just why that is so important.  We also cover the differences in 3 tab shingles vs. architectural, how homeowners insurance work, as well as protocol after a hail storm

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This weeks episode has special guest Britt Hayes of Mid Atlantic Roofing Supply in Garner.  We discuss building materials and everything driving the pricing, logistics and more.  Our questions segment covers advanced framing, shower pan leaks and zip system exteriors.  We close the program with a segment on designer shingles.  Listen in!

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We have building inspector Jimmy Lloyd in the studio for this one.  We cover tons of interesting building code questions, hand nailing vs. nail guns, TPO vs. EPDM and much more

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In this episode, we go through a recent real estate transaction with Amber Harvalias and Keller Williams.  Our in-house guy, Christopher Matkins gives a testimonial that tells just how effective the right marketing can be.  Amber and "The A Team" knocked it out of the park on this one.  
We also cover what the ideal house build looks like in our region of the southeast, how to retrofit with insulation to save money on your utilities, engineered wood vs. traditional lumber and more!  You don't want to miss this one....we deliver a ton of good content!

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Our special guest, Christopher Matkins with Suretop Roofing, covers a ton of great material from roof ventilation to correct valley cuts.  We had callers referencing conditioned crawl spaces and mechanical roof fans, as well as a closure strip problem under a metal ridge vent. 
We also dive into diagnosing legitimate hail damage after a storm, as well as the process that takes place when you file a claim.  
This particular show is very informative and content rich...we touched on just about everything you need to know when you get your roof replaced and then some!

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In this episode, we have our special guest Ron Cooke, with GAF to discuss all things roofing.  We cover everything from the history of GAF, to the makeup of the shingle.  There's also a really good list of questions to ask before hiring a roofing contractor.  You don't want to miss this one!

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Some of the topics we cover in this episode are conditioned crawl spaces, handicap accessibility tips and self healing concrete.  Listen in on some questions we answer about financing your project, shingles breaking down prematurely and a heating and air problem!

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We cover everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between!

This show is recorded live.  We do not endorse any products mentioned by our callers.  Please direct all email questions to our company website at www.SureTopRoofing.com

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We cover everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between!

This show is recorded live.  We do not endorse any products mentioned by our callers.  Please direct all email questions to our company website at www.SureTopRoofing.com

View Details

We cover everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between!

This show is recorded live.  We do not endorse any products mentioned by our callers.  Please direct all email questions to our company website at www.SureTopRoofing.com

View Details

We cover everything from the roof to the foundation and everything in between!

This show is recorded live.  We do not endorse any products mentioned by our callers.  Please direct all email questions to our company website at www.SureTopRoofing.com