Episode
Rodent-Proofing Your Home + Smart Thermostat Secrets + Ken Burns’ Home Studio
- Podcast
- This Old House Radio Hour
- Published
- Dec 23, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 3091
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
Cold weather doesn’t just freeze pipes, it sends mice and rats searching for a warm place to nest. Pest control expert Noel Buckingham explains how to find openings and seal them up so rodents never make it inside. Filmmaker Ken Burns opens the door to the New Hampshire home that has defined his life, his work, and his sense of belonging. This Old House engineer Ross Trethewey demystifies smart thermostats, explaining how to choose the right one, wire it correctly, and use its features to save energy and protect your home. And general contractor Zach Dettmore shares his favorite under $20 bit extension and how it can rescue you in tight drilling spots. In this episode you will learn: * How to deal with mold on an unfinished basement foundation wall in an older home (7:31) * How to track down what a “mystery” three way light switch actually controls (14:22) * How to handle a failed solid stain on an older pressure treated deck and decide what to refinish versus leave gray (19:34) * How to address efflorescence and bubbling on a block wall in a below grade bonus room (26:18) All of this, plus we’re answering your home improvement questions at 877-This Old House Radio Hour! — That’s (877) 864-7460.