Eric G: 5 Common Reno Mistakes for Upstate Homes
(1) Skip the moisture barrier = mold in SC humidity. (2) Skip permit = inspectors are thorough. (3) Standard drywall in bathrooms. (4) Plant before soil testing SC clay. (5) DIY HVAC.
Eric G hosts Around the House — the Apple Podcasts home-improvement show that’s partnered with HERESpartanburg for Upstate-focused coverage. Across 800+ episodes, these are the five mistakes Eric sees Upstate homeowners make most often.
1. Skipping the moisture barrier
Spartanburg humidity averages 70%+ from May through September. An exterior wall without a proper weather-resistant barrier (house wrap, rigid foam with taped seams, or a drainage mat) is a mold farm. This is the single most expensive mistake in Upstate residential work.
2. Skipping the permit
Spartanburg city and county inspectors are thorough, responsive, and not shy about red-tagging unpermitted work. Beyond the fines, unpermitted work surfaces at closing and tanks home sales. The $150 permit is cheap insurance.
3. Standard drywall in bathrooms
Greenboard is not enough for Upstate humidity near a shower. Use cement board (Durock) or a waterproofing membrane (Schluter Kerdi, RedGard). Greenboard is rated moisture-resistant, not waterproof — a meaningful difference after 5 years.
4. Planting before soil testing
Spartanburg red clay typically runs pH 4.5-5.5 — acidic. Most lawn grasses, vegetables, and ornamentals want 6.0-6.8. Dropping plants in without a lime amendment is burning money. Clemson Extension offers soil tests for $6; the results tell you exactly what to add.
5. DIY HVAC
Every other DIY in this guide pays off. HVAC does not. Refrigerant handling is regulated, sizing a system is non-trivial, and a mistake is a $10,000 correction. Pay an Upstate HVAC contractor. This is not where to save money.