Deer Proofing

TOM: Whether your garden is a sight for sore eyes or just needs a little work, deer look at your garden and think one thing. Lunch. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.

LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit Home Improvement Minute.

TOM: Commercially available deer repellents are effective at making your garden less tasty. With an odor similar to rotten eggs, deer will find plenty of other available greenery much more appetizing.

LESLIE: If you’re looking for a fresher-smelling approach, soap is another deer deterrent. Buy a few fragrant strong bars and then hang them from the branches of the plants or trees that you’re trying to protect.

TOM: Fine mesh nylon netting draped over the hedges and gardens also keeps wildlife from munching. Or take the high-tech route and install a motion-detector sprinkler. When deer move in on your plants, the water turns on and send them running. I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit Home Improvement tips, visit money pit

DIY Home Security

TOM: With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology abound, there are more options than ever for keeping an eye on your home security, but which makes the most sense? Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.

LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit Home Improvement Minute.

TOM: DIY-friendly surveillance cameras are a good start. Once installed, you can monitor them remotely from any computer, making them great for security and for keeping an eye on older who are home alone, or even aging parents.

LESLIE: Wireless window and door sensors as well as motion detectors are also available today and easily installed, with the ability to monitor activity anywhere and anytime from your smart phone.

TOM: And another smartphone option that helps worry and intruders at bay are wireless garage door controllers. These are to check your garage doors so you know if it’s open or closed from your phone. This gives you peace of mind whether you’re on the other end of the block or the other side of the globe. I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit Home Improvement tips, visit moneypit.com.