Expert Advice on Home Improvement TV Host of Emmy®-Nominated Today's Homeowner® and home expert for The Weather Channel

Home automation systems can be used to control everything from heating and cooling to lighting and music. Z-Wave technology uses a two-way wireless system to reliably transmit signals from a controller to the device.

When traditional drywall gets wet, mold spores feed on the paper facing. New paperless wallboard resists mold growth. It’s held together with fiberglass mesh, allowing it to be cut and finished like standard wallboard.

To reduce wind damage from a hurricane or tornado, joints connecting the framing of a house are tied together from the roof down to the sill using metal straps and hardware.

Before renovation can begin on a house that’s been flooded, the drywall, insulation, and furnishings have to be removed. Then any residual mold is treated with chemicals and the framing is cleaned.

Moving heavy boxes can be hard work, but there are some simple tricks that will save your back and make the job go much easier. When moving a box on carpet, put a piece of heavy (6 mil) plastic sheeting under it.

To give a deck that perfect finishing touch, as well as to address safety concerns, it needs to have a handrail around it. Here Danny shows how to construct the railings and spindles from pressure treated wood. The top rail is made from a horizontal 2×4 while the bottom rail is secured vertically with a beveled cut to shed water.

Danny takes a look at a high-tech home automation system that uses a touch screen with programmable timers to control everything from lighting and temperature to the security system and audio/video components.

The elderly often require modifications to their existing homes in order to make them safer and easier to use. Danny explores some innovative ideas to make homes more accessible, such as hinges that provide additional clearance for wheelchairs and the removal of thresholds from exterior doors. In the bathroom he examines the importance of ADA compliant faucets, as well as grab bars and adjustable shower heads. The need for increased lighting is addressed by the installation of remote controlled skylights.

Danny talks to an automated lighting expert about wireless remote controlled lighting. These systems can let you set lighting to time, mood, or control it from the car.

Danny demonstrates a video door answering system from Nutone that has a simple install and is packed with features. The Nutone device will let you see the person who rings your doorbell and talk back with them. The unit will also let you watch TV, listen to the AM/FM radio, and place phone calls.