---
title: "Eric G: 5 Common Reno Mistakes for Upstate Homes"
url: https://www.herespartanburg.com/home-garden/guide/eric-g-5-reno-mistakes/
date: 2026-04-24T08:35:49-04:00
modified: 2026-04-24T08:35:49-04:00
author: "Reginald Orr"
site: "HERESpartanburg"
attribution: "HERESpartanburg"
---

# 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.

*Source: [HERESpartanburg](https://www.herespartanburg.com/home-garden/guide/eric-g-5-reno-mistakes/) — April 24, 2026 by Reginald Orr*

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.