Home In Progress

SEGMENT 1: Stain or Paint?We received a great question from a listener regarding some cedar columns outside his home. They're bare wood and he wants them white . . . what's the process, and what products should he be using: Solid Color Stain or Paint? SEGMENTS 2 & 3: 8 Steps to Staying on Budget for Your Next ProjectAndy Yates from Andy Yates Design joins us to discuss 8 ways to stay on budget. With supply shortages and rising prices, this is critical info if you're starting, or thinking about starting, a home renovation or a new build!SEGMENT 4: Hailey's New Best Friend, LomiHailey has replaced her inner circle of friends with a new favorite: an appliance named Lomi. Lomi is a countertop composter . . . and Hailey adores it.Check out Lomi for yourself!

SEGMENT 1: Lead Paint DilemmaHailey's older home has some peeling paint and is in need of some work. However . . . the whole project took a turn when she discovered that the existing paint is lead based. We discuss what the project looks like now and all the things you need to know if you're in the same situation.SEGMENTS 2 and 3: Beekeeping 101Recently Hailey started considering a new hobby: beekeeping! To get her feet underneath her she attended a meeting hosted by the Grand Rapids Bee Club and was blown away by all the info presented. SEGMENT 4: Steel Door FaceliftA listener posted a question regarding her front door--a steel door with badly peeling paint. She wanted to know what she needs to do to get it looking great again! It's a terrific project with a big payoff and we cover all the bases....

Segment 1: The Glass Cleaning MiracleLast weekend, Dan stumbled into a streak-free solution to cleaning windows. It's ridiculously simple and chemical free. Basically, you just need water and these special, microfiber rags (link below). The best news? The system really works!MicroFiber Glass Cleaning RagsSegments 2 and 3: Bookshop MagicFrom time to time, we highlight what we call "Gems of West Michigan"--businesses we want more and more people to know about because we think they're amazing. Well, this week, we interview Aimee Chipman, owner of the Bluestocking Bookshop in Holland to talk about the Bookshop Magic that keeps her customers coming back again and again!Check their website for renovation updates, shopping links, and more!The Bluestocking BookshopSegment 4: Mural Cover-upWe've talked about painting murals onto your walls, but we've never really talked about painting OVER them! If you're ready to cover over a mural and get back to a single color on your wall, there are a few things you'll want to know to make sure you get great results....

SEGMENT 1: Chicken Trouble!The chickens across the street from Hailey got out the other day. At first, it was cute. But then, she found that they had The Hunger. Before she really knew what was happening, they were running around, eating road kill, and . . . Well, she'll tell the story. We also highlight the Wooster Sherlock 9" Roller Frame which is on sale through April.SEGMENT 2: Good Earth Tree CareBrett Nelson from Good Earth Tree Care joins us to talk about rock climbing, pruning, tree removal, and a wide variety of ways to tell if a tree or branch is unhealthy.SEGMENT 3: Luxury Vinyl PlankNick Sargent from Johnson Carpet One in Grandville joins us to talk about one of the most popular and versatile flooring products out there.SEGMENT 4: Reviving Old Hardwood FloorsLuxury Vinyl Plank is a beautiful option for many of us, but there's still nothing like hardwood. If you've got old floors and you're interested in bringing out their natural beauty, we can help!

SEGMENT 1: How to Complete Your Spring To-Do ListWe all mean well! But sometimes life just gets the best of us and we don't wrap up our projects as quickly as we wish. Today we talk about a simple method that will help you get the most important jobs cross off that to-do list!SEGMENT 2: State of the Real Estate Market, RevisitedLast week, Sue Prins and Ginger Herman were in the studio talking about what it looks like out there for people trying to buy a home. However, there was one thing Sue wished she had clarified. Well, she's back this week to dot those "i's" and cross those "t's"!SEGMENT 3: Budget-Friendy Ways to Transition Your Decor from Winter to SpringAndy Yates from Andy Yates Design joins us and dishes out a number of designer tricks to easily move our homes from the cozy feel we created for winter into a more open and airy aesthetic as we head into Spring.SEGMENT 4: Compost TeaIf you're composting, here's a tea mixture that you may be interested in!InstructionsTools you will need: 5 gallon bucketMesh compost tea bag (a 5 Gallon Strainer works great!)Aquarium aeratorAquarium thermometerSteps:Put 1 large handful of compost, 1 handful of garden soil, 2 handfuls of straw, 3–5 leaves from a healthy plant into the tea bag, tie the bag tightly and submerge it in the bucket of water. Add 1 cup of  fish hydrolysate and 1 cup of seaweed extract liquids directly to the water. Place the aerator in the bucket and turn it on. Brew the tea for about 36 hoursMonitor the  temperature—the optimal temperature is between 68° and 72°F.Compost tea should smell yeasty not like ammonia Using It:Always use the compost tea right away--do not store it.Dilute it to a 3 parts tea to 1part water ratio before spraying. Gently pouring the tea out of a watering can be better than spraying because the sprayers can actually kill the microbes you’ve been growing  Apply early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid burning leaves in the midday sun.Compost tea is great for raised bed gardens! Typically you want to apply it every 14 days 

SEGMENT 1: Paint Clean UpSpring's here and, for many of us that means Spring Cleaning . . . . So, with that in mind, we talk about some proper ways to dispose of paint tools and also answer one of the the most common questions we receive: "Do you dispose of unwanted latex paint?" The answer is "Yes!" and we've got all the details on this segment.SEGMENTS 2 and 3: The State of Real EstateThe Real Estate market is still crazy! Maybe even crazier than it was a year ago. To get the scoop on what it looks like out there, we sit down with Sue Prins and Ginger Herman from Sue Prins Group Five Star Real Estate.SEGMENT 4: Paint SuperheroesThe supply chain is causing all kinds of shortages world wide. And, of course, this even trickles down to paint. For years now, we've spent many segments lauding all the positives of Paint Superheroes like Scuff-X and Advance from Benjamin Moore. BUT, as the ability to get those products becomes tougher, it's important to point out that there are TONS of great products out there with their own super powers. If you need an alternative to a paint product, we've got answers!

SEGMENT 1: Where's the Paint?We sit down with Kevin Hermann from Benjamin Moore to talk about the state of the paint industry. Paint companies world-wide are struggling to some extent, to get the raw ingredients necessary to make paint. What's going on? How are things looking? And when's it going to get better?SEGMENT 2: Carpet Trends 2022In this segment, Nick Sargent from Johnson Carpet One in Grandville joins us to talk about what 2022 will bring in terms of carpet styles.SEGMENT 3: Picture RailsDan hung some art in his living room and couldn't, for the life of him, get the pieces in the right spot. So he kept adjusting and moving them and pounding new holes in the wall. In the end, his plaster walls looked like they were they scene for a mob hit. That led him into a long internet search and he ran into an old design concept that might be worth a new look: Picture Rails. SEGMENT 4: Avoiding Finish RegretThere are a LOT of paint finishes out there. And finding the right one for your project isn't always easy. We walk through the basics AND give away a Bluetooth Speaker to a lucky listener along the way. (And yes, for some reason, we end up referring to it all segment long as a radio. We don't know why....)

SEGMENT 1: Harald Bluetooth, Part 1Most of us don't think twice about the technology behind some of the items we use everyday. And if we do, chances are we certainly don't think about how that technology got its name or its logo. Well, today, we look at the surprisingly old (and fun) origins of the Bluetooth name and logo. This segment is part 1.SEGMENTS 2 & 3: Harald Bluetooth, Part 1We sit down with Andy Yates from Andy Yates Design to discuss the design trends of 2022 and what that means for all of us. If you're interested in contacting Andy, his info is below!Learn more about Andy Yates DesignSEGMENT4: Harald Bluetooth, Part 2We finish up the Bluetooth story and talk about how you can win a JBL Flip 5 Speaker just by asking a question!See, we're looking for questions from our listeners that we can answer on the show. If you'd like to leave a question, there are a number of options!Ask a question on the RepcoLite WebsiteAsk a question in the comments on our contest post on FacebookOR use the coolest method and actually RECORD your question using our Telbee web app! It's easy and a lot of fun . . . AND you could end up on the show!Record my question with the web app!

SEGMENT 1: The Power of PicklesPickles and pickle juice may have some remarkable health benefits! Here are just a few!SEGMENTS 2 and 3: Skip's Painting--An Origin StoryWe sit down with Dan Schipper from Skip's Painting to talk about Aura Bath and Spa and Scuff-X from Benjamin Moore. However, along the way we end up the importance of finding satisfaction in the work we do....SEGMENT 4: Our NEW Favorite Paint!We knew RepcoLite's new OPTIMA was a tremendous wall paint, but we had no idea how remarkable it really is! Hailey put it to the test on a tough project in her dining room and was stunned at the workability, hide, and coverage it offered as she went from white walls, to a deep blue. Check out Optima here!

SEGMENT 1: Painting the Ceiling Like the ProsKevin Hermann from Benjamin Moore sits down with us to talk about how the pros paint ceilings!Use a ceiling paint -- not just a flat wall paint!Brush Cut the ENTIRE ceiling in firstKeep a wet edge when rolling and work across the ceiling in 4' x 4' squaresWhen you apply your second coat, roll the paint in the other direction (if you go East-West for the first coat, go North-South for the second)Don't overapply your paintTurn the heat down a little before you start!Some products to consider:RepcoLite's Elements Ceiling PaintBenjamin Moore's Super Hide ZeroBenjamin Moore's Premium Ceiling Paint (great when you are painting with a color on your ceiling).SEGMENTS 2 and 3: Garage HeatersHailey has big plans to turn her garage into an art studio. Thing is . . . we live in Michigan. And that means she has to find a way to heat it in the winter and cool it in the summer. Here are some of the heaters/air conditioners she's found that might work...SEGMENT 4: Zombie-Defying Paint KitsWell. The whole zombie thing was just big talk. To be honest, there's not much these kits will do in that event. However, if you do a fair amount of painting at home, having a stocked set of supplies ready to go can really save your project. We explain how....

SEGMENT 1: Ironing WoodSure, it's an old trick . . . but we've never tried it before. This week we try to remove dents and dings from unfinished wood with water and an iron. And the results were amazing!SEGMENT 2: Home Gym ColorsLast week we talked about creating a home gym. This week, we dig into some colors you may want to consider.SEGMENT 3: Caulk 101In the paint world, caulk is probably one of the least flashy topics! And yet, when it's done right, your project will look amazing. When it's done poorly (or not done at all) . . . well, the results suffer.SEGMENT 4: Dual Flush ToiletsWe received a question about Dual Flush Toilets and conversion kits. Are they worth it? Well, to get the answer, we contacted the experts at Service Professor and Mark DeVisser from Great Lakes Plumbing.

SEGMENT 1: A Skunky ValentineWhat do you do when your dog is sprayed by a skunk? Break out the tomato juice? Toss her in the bathtub? Actually, the right answer involves baking soda, peroxide, and a little dishsoap--just don't leave it on the fur too long, since peroxide could bleach it! Here's the article we reference along with a tried and true recipe for de-skunkification.In this same skunk segment, we "about-face" and transition to some Valentine's Day Trivia. Do you know why women of the middle ages ate hedgehogs? Check out the segment to find out!SEGMENTS 2 and 3: No More Scary BasementsBasements often feel uninviting. (And that's putting it mildly). However with a little bit of work and some paint, you can take that old, block wall "dungeon", and brighten it up significantly. We talk about everything you'll need to know to get the project underway.SEGMENT 4: Home Gym Flooring OptionsIn this segment, we sit down with Nick Sargent from Johnson Carpet One to discuss a wide variety of floors for your home gym--everything from heavy-duty rubber for weight lifting, to easy clean floors for yoga. You can learn more about Johnson Carpet One right here!

SEGMENTS 1 and 2: The Art of Purging (the Home)Getting our homes decluttered and organized isn't always easy. It takes work--physical and emotional! On the show today we talk about some of the reasons we all hang onto far too much stuff . . . and better, we discuss some positive steps to help you start the purge!SEGMENTS 3 and 4: Primers 101 with Dean VeltmanWe've all heard about Paint and Primer all-in-one products. Today, we sit down with professional contractor, Dean Veltman from Veltman Painting, to discuss his thoughts on those products. From there, we walk through some of his favorite primers for tough situations.

SEGMENT 1: Tool SnobberyHailey is a very particular person...some people might even say snob. While that may be true, one thing she is NOT a not a snob about is tools.  Good tools can definitely make jobs easier, safer and faster. They are absolutely necessary for professionals or serious hobbyists. If you are like most DIY'ers, however, there are tools that can make a project easier but are not going to be used on a regular basis.  In this case we do advocate for finding entry level tools. You do not have to buy a $400 chop saw to use it 10 days out of the year. Don't let tool snobbery keep you from tackling a project, just find something safe and affordable. SEGMENTS 2 and 3: The Five Laws of Interior DesignWe have come up with our own Laws of Interior Design...while we did technically make these up... they are actually really solid and will hopefully help people who struggle to get their home looking just right. THE FIRST LAW: IT’S OK TO TRY TO BREAK OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE ONLY TO END UP BACK IN IT. It's good to push ourselves once in a while but sometimes we try something new only to find out it's not for us. THE SECOND LAW: LET THE SPACE TELL YOU WHAT IT NEEDS! Listen to the architecture of the home so your design works it with instead of against it. THE THIRD LAW: IT’S OK TO GO SLOWLY! You don't have to figure out the entire design at once. Sometimes doing one color at a time is less overwhelming and can help give you real direction instead of forcing it. THE FOURTH LAW: NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE IMPORTANCE OF SAMPLING COLOR IN YOUR SPACE! Far too often people pick paint colors without sampling them. Scale, lighting and texture can change a color's appearance dramatically. It's worth the extra time to get it right and feel happy about your results. THE FIFTH LAW: IF YOU’VE GOT A PAINT PROJECT ON THE HORIZON, START WORKING ON COLOR CHOICES NOW! If you are going to put these laws into practice, waiting until the last minute is not an option. Give yourself time! Also, we mentioned that a number of RepcoLite locations have In Store Color Consultants who will do an in-home consultation should you desire that!Here are some details:In store Consultations: Always Free!1 Hour In Home Consultation: $85In-Home Consultants are at the following locations:17th Street (Holland)Fulton Street (Grand Rapids)Plainfield Ave (Grand Rapids)Chicago Drive (Jenison)Stop by or call any of those locations for more info!SEGMENT 4: Our Apologies to Plastic Drop ClothsLast week we talked about canvas drop cloths and ended up disparaging plastic drop cloths. In fact, we were drop cloth snobs. And so we wanted to give them their time in the limelight as well. There definitely are places they can be handy!

SEGMENTS 1 and 2: Organizational Skills for the New YearMany of us aren't as organized as we'd like to be. It's a goal, sure, but getting there isn't always easy. In these two segments, we talk about a number of skills to develop that will help you on the journey. (And yes, it's a journey... Understanding that is part of the recipe for success!) Here are some of our recommendations:Have a place for everything and put everything in its placePut items away now, rather than laterToolsDishesDirty clothesDevelop a productive routineOpen and deal with mail on a daily basisHave a set day for watering plantsWash dishes after every dinnerLabel everything!If you go down the road of storing items in totes . . . label them!And maintain those labels -- when items change, relabelStay positive and remember it's a PROCESSSEGMENT 3: Steps to Creating a Home YOU Love with Lauren FigueroaConnect with Lauren here!SEGMENT 4: Drop ClothsYou may think drop cloths are boring, but you'd be SO wrong! Sure they are absolutely critical to have on hand when you tackle paint projects around the home, but there's so much more you can do! Just google "drop cloth projects" and sit back! We talk about a few of the fun things people are doing with drop cloths and highlight a sale that we've got running right now.

SEGMENT 1: Chamberlain Garage Door SystemThinking about a smart garage door system? Here's an inexpensive way to give it a try!SEGMENTS 2 and 3: Veltman Painting on Kitchen CabinetsIn these segments, Dean Veltman, owner of Veltman Painting, discusses products, tips and tricks, and everything else you need to know if you're going to hire a contractor to paint your cabinets.Veltman Painting's website and contact info is here!SEGMENT 4: The Old Farmer's AlmanacWe talk about the smart phone of 1792 and why you still need one today!

Because it's New Year's Day, we decided to run one of our favorite episodes from the past. Here's our episode on Failure!SEGMENT 1: Backing out of Color MistakesSEGMENTS 2 and 3: The Invention of the TelegraphSEGMENT 4: Unique Accent Walls

For the first time, we're running a full-blown Christmas special! Merry Christmas, everyone!SEGMENT 1: Family TraditionsSEGMENTS 2 and 3: Christmas Traditions from Around the WorldIn these segments, we explore a number of remarkably strange traditions, including a tradition from Spain that you almost have to hear to believe . . . .SEGMENT 4: Christmas Movie DebateWhat's the Best Christmas movie out there? Is Die Hard REALLY a Christmas film? How does "The Grinch" fare in our opinions? We dig into all of these weighty matters and more....

SEGMENTS 1 and 2: Mel Trotter MinistriesIn this segment we're on the phone with Beth Fisher and Regina Dix from Mel Trotter Ministries in Grand Rapids, talking about the homelessness situation and what we can all do.Here's the link if you'd like to help out with a donation!SEGMENT 3: Last Minute GiftsEvery year around this time, we sit down with Jeff Rietveld from Out of the Box Games, Toys, and Puzzles to get his take on the best games for the season. Here's the 2021 list!Find more info about Out of the Box here!SEGMENT 4: Christmas Contest FinaleToday we dole out the last 4 clues in our Christmas Scavenger Hunt.Find the Entry Form here!More info about Bistro Bella Vita

SEGMENT 1: To Flush or Not to Flush?Flushing the hot water heater is a common recommendation when you peruse DIY forums. However . . . there are a couple things to consider before you jump into that seemingly simple DIY project.SEGMENT 2: Miracle Dryer BallsHailey is dealing with a lot of static electricity at home--especially in the laundry. And she's stumbled on a simple laundry room item that may help!Check these Wool Dryer Balls out here!SEGMENT 3: Wood Staining TipsAs we discuss in the segment, stains are sensitive! And by that, we mean the final color of any particular on wood stain is determined by more than just the color of liquid stain. We talk about all the things to pay attention to for great results every time!SEGMENT 4: Christmas Contest HintsOur Christmas Scavenger Hunt is in full swing right now! On this segment, we talk about all the cool stuff you and your family can do at the Muskegon Luge Sports Adventure Park (previously the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex). We also dish out a few more hints so you can enter our contest without having to travel!

SEGMENT 1: The Hot Water Heater FiascoHot water heaters don't last forever! And when they go . . . well, they really can go! Dan's 10 year old hot water heater burst on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and in about 30 minutes the 1/2 the basement had an inch of water over the floor. On the show, we dug into some of the lessons learned . . . and really, it's all about being prepared.Here are some ideas (and these work for ANY water-related fiasco):Know how to shut down your water heater in case of an emergencyLocate the water shut off valves and make your whole family awareGet a good wet/dry vac and a submersible pump (if you don't have a sump pump pit)If you don't have a "go-to" plumber now, find one . . . when you don't have an emergencySEGMENTS 2 and 3: Quick Holiday TransformationsThere's not a ton of time left before Christmas and New Year's, so we didn't want to dig into all kinds of huge paint projects. Instead, we decided to focus on some quick transformations for you home.SEGMENT 4: Christmas Tree 101Hailey loves to pick out her Christmas tree every year . . . but every year, she forgets which kind is the right one for her. So today, she walks through some of the trees that we'll find when we go shopping as well as some pros and cons for each!ALSO!!!! We launch our 2021 Christmas Sweepstakes. Find all the information in the segment!

SEGMENT 1: Surfactant LeachingSurfactant leaching is a somewhat common issue in newly painted bathrooms with high humidity. It can look TERRIBLE on your walls . . . but it's easy to take care of!SEGMENTS 2-4: Home Repair ServicesHome Repair Services is an organization in Kent County that we feel everyone needs to know about! We'll do our best as we spend three segments talking with Executive Director, Joel Ruiter.

SEGMENT 1: The Wishbone's Strange HistoryWe all know the Thanksgiving tradition of two people pulling apart the wishbone to see who gets the wish . . . but do you know where this strange tradition comes from? Tune in to find out!SEGMENT 2: Holiday Survival GuideWhether you're a person who enjoys big Holiday gatherings or not, they can be a little stressful. We put together a Holiday Survival Gide that is sure to make family gatherings more enjoyable for both hosts and guests.SEGMENTS 3 and 4: Brilliant Gift RecommendationsThis is our 5th Annual Gift Guide and Dan is trying desperately to "win". Sadly, he comes up short again . . . .Gifts for the Whole FamilyHailey: Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park Family MembershipDan: Home Theater (you can do it well AND cheaper than you may think!)Yaber ProjectorPop-up ScreenGifts for Kids and TeensHailey: (Kids) Dinosaur Explorer Gift set. But it's not just the set . . . get other related items and create a world!Explorer PackDino Egg Excavation KitDan: (Teens) A Mysterious Package Experience. You'll receive a package (or multiples) in the mail and within, you'll find letters, documents, artifacts and more that tell an unfolding story or mystery that you are challenged to solve! Gifts for the Hard-To-Buy-For PersonHailey: Snacks from around the world! Pick a country and receive a package of their favorite snacks.Japan's Favorite Snacks (for example)Dan: An Audible Subscription. Give the gift of books on audio. Yes, it's a digital gift and no it doesn't have a lot of flair . . . but it does have "staying power"! This is the kind of gift that will likely be used ALL year long. Personally, I've listened to over 27 books in the last year . . . some of which (Anna Karenina, I'm looking at you) I don't think I'd have made it through if I was reading on my own . . . .Gifts for AdultsHailey: The gift they ALWAYS wanted as a child. Hailey goes for the nostalgia factor here and suggests finding a fun gift someone always wanted but never received. Her example is the famous (perhaps infamous) Red Ryder BB gun!Dan: A membership (or several-month pass) to a gym. YES, I know this is an incredibly difficult gift to give. You have to be smart, suave, and tactful because nothing could say, "hey, you're not exactly good enough as you are . . . why not try this?" quite like a gym membership. So maybe it's a gift you give yourself! But still, as we head into winter, getting out and exercising can really make you feel a lot better!A Unique GiftHailey: A Float Tank experience at PHLOT in Grand Rapids. It's a sensory-depravation experience and Hailey claims it's the most relaxing experience she's ever had! Also, it's remarkably good for people with chronic pain. So if you can get past the idea of spending an hour alone in the silent dark . . . this might be for you!Dan: An Escape Room experience. We've talked about them on the show before . . . but escape rooms are just a TON of fun! You can find them in Grand Rapids, Holland, and at our favorite spot in Zeeland: Out of the Box Games, Toys, and Puzzles!

SEGMENT 1: Holiday Cleaning TipsThe Holidays are closing in and those of us who are hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas parties are starting to pull our homes together for guests. If cleaning is a big "To-Do" on your list, we've got some tips for getting some key areas in your home sparkling!And here are links to the cleaners we mentioned:Zep Heavy Duty DegreaserMethod Heavy Duty DegreaserSEGMENTS 2 and 3: Winter Prep with Ayers Basement SystemsIs your home cold in the winter? Is the basement frigid? Do you have a dirt floor crawlspace? Would you like to save 22% on your energy bill from here on out? If you answer "yes" to any of those questions, check out this interview with Zack Krieger from Ayers Basement Systems. Zack has a ton of great info about how to make our homes more comfortable in the winter as well as a way to bring our energy bills down significantly.SEGMENT 4: Paint and Stain Touch-Up TipsWe started the show talking about cleaning for the Holidays. But when we clean, we're likely going to notice a lot of little areas on our trim and on our walls that need to be touched up! Dings, scratches, gouges . . . how do we fix them quickly and effectively? We've got the answers!

SEGMENT 1: Paint Hack AttackLife hacks are all over the internet! And many of them are just terrible ideas . . . . One "paint hack from the pros" that we ran across involved pounding holes in the rim of your paint can. We talk about why that's such a bad idea.SEGMENT 2: Color of the Year 2022Benjamin Moore's Color of the Year for 2022 is October Mist. It's a great color that "plays nice" with so many other colors! It's easy to work with and might be something to consider as you plan your next paint project.Benjamin Moore Color Trends 2022SEGMENT 3: Tablescapes Made EasyPutting together a centerpiece for your holiday table is easy. You just have to start with a few basic concepts and work from there!SEGMENT 4: Avoiding ScamsIt's pretty much always "Scam Season". We've all run into them from time to time and some of us have been hooked and taken for a ride. We talk about some current scams going on in the Holland area as well as some basics behind what scammers do and why. All of that info should help us avoid getting suckered by that next phone call.Here are the articles we referenced in the discussion:Common Scams and FraudsWhy Do We Fall for ScamsAvoid Falling Victim to Scams

Segment 1: The Best Leaf TarpWhen you have a lot of leaves to deal with in the fall, you get creative! You look for new solutions everywhere. Well, I stumbled into what I think is the best leaf tarp out there. And it's actually a dump truck tarp. We'll tell you why we like it so much.Here's the tarp we were referencingSegment 2: 10 Minutes with Your RefrigeratorOur refrigerators don't ask for much! But one thing we can do to possibly extend their life is to periodically clean the condenser coils. We'll tell you how (and the good news is it's quick!)Segments 3 and 4: Hailey's Monumental Bathroom Re-doHailey's cat, Berger, couldn't get to his litter box the other day . . . and two weeks later, Hailey had a brand new bathroom. We'll talk about all the crazy steps in between!

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This episode, we explore the concept of failure. So often we fear it and do everything to avoid it . . . but it's part of life! And it's part of every great endeavor. But, not every instance of failure or complication we encounter should be handled in exactly the same way....SEGMENT 1: Backing out of Color MistakesWhen choosing colors, most of us put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into making the right choice! But even then . . . sometimes when we roll the new paint onto the walls, we wonder if we've made the right call! If you've ever been in that situation and have worried you made the wrong "color call" . . . here are a few considerations:FIRST: Colors change as they dry down — sometimes dramatically - so give the paint time to dry before you react too quickly!SECOND: Colors are affected by our surroundings! If the wall is a different color, and you view the new color framed with that older color, your impression of your new color may not be accurate at all. You may need to paint an entire section, covering up that old color entirely, before you're able to judge the color accurately.THIRD: If you know you just picked the wrong color, here's what we can do in the paint store to help:Tinted paint CAN be changed, but only in limited degrees. However, if your color is close, but just leans "too gray" or "too green", "too yellow" or "too pink", then usually we can adjust it to an acceptable hue.We can also deepen the color to some extent, but the amount of change we can affect is limited by the base used for the original color and the colorant already present in the mix.Finally, lightening colors is very limited.The best course of action is to reach out to any RepcoLite or Port City Paints and talk through the situation.FOURTH: There’s nothing better than avoiding a problem in the first placeBenjamin Moore Sample pintsPaint it in your homeView it in your lighting!Make sure you got it rightRepcoLite's Color ConsultantsIn-home visits for $50/hourFree in-store consultationsSEGMENTS 2 and 3: Tragedy, Failure, and the History of The TelegraphWith almost all invention, the road from concept to reality, is usually bumpy! The history of the invention of the telegraph is no different. But there are great lessons tucked inside the story!SEGMENT 4: A New Take on Feature WallsWe can't focus on failures the whole episode! Now it's time to jump into a project that really caught our eye over the last couple weeks: feature walls done not with just paint or wallpaper . . . but with wood strips. It's a great project, a simple project, and can have a tremendous amount of impact in your space!

SEGMENT 1: Instagram ContestSEGMENT 2: Supporting the Arts in Grand Rapids with Lions and RabbitsSEGMENT 3: Drill Bits 101SEGMENT 4: The History of Trim

SEGMENT 1: Escape RoomsOut of the Box Games and Toys is a gem of West Michigan! They have an AMAZING selection of unique games and toys. The Zeeland location has something extra special we needed to experience for ourselves...an Escape Room! Learn about what an escape room entails and if we made it out in time!Out of the Box has 3 locations. Find them in Kentwood, Zeeland and Holland. The Zeeland Location is the only store with Escape Rooms. These rooms can hold 6-12 people depending on which room you choose. They also vary in difficulty and are friendly for a variety of ages and skill levels. Escape Rooms are designed around a theme and require you to work as a team to solve the puzzles and riddles in order to make it out.SEGMENT 2: Unusual Trim ColorsUsually the first color that comes to mind when painting trim is "white" but we want to challenge that convention. Using a color other than white on trim can actually be the best of both worlds. We discuss when / where it makes sense.  Painting trim colors other than white started to gain popularity about 5 years ago. At the time it seemed ridiculous but it's proven to be a design choice that has a lot to offer.Using a color on trim can have a big design impact without overwhelming the space. This design is easiest to implement in rooms with defined starting and stopping points.If you love color but also want to maximize the light in your space using white on the walls and color on the trim could be the compromise you have been looking for. SEGMENT 3: Steam CleaningHailey has a new steamer!... That may not sound terribly exciting but you would not believe all the things you can do with Dupray's Neat Steam Cleaner. Hailey gives a full review after putting it to the test.  Tested the steamer on a stove top to remove serious carbon build up, on wool upholstery to remove a black grease stain, carpet stains and more! Amazing results. Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is extremely simple to use, stores easily, reaches 50 psi, heats to 275 degrees, comes with 10 attachments and can produce continuous steam for 50 min. Easily eliminates; dirt, grease, soap scum, stains, 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, bedbugs and mold. You can use it on; floors, furniture, toys, kitchen appliances, car interiors, grout and tiles, bathrooms and more. SEGMENT 4: Removing WallpaperWallpaper gets a bad reputation because people believe that it is extremely difficult to remove. However, wallpaper can be easily removed if properly installed. It may be tempting but painting over wallpaper instead of stripping it can lead to problems. Stripping wallpaper is another perfect use for the Dupray Neat Steamer we discussed in the previous segment! The large paddle attachment works great and has been well reviewed for this application. If you decide to forgo the steamer here are some supplies you will need: DIF, Paper Tiger, Spray Bottle, Large Putty Knife, Hot water, Lots of towels.The most important thing is letting the DIF product and water do the work for you. Don't rush! Water based paint CAN be used over wallpaper but does have the ability to cause paper to bubble. Oil based primer is better if you do decide to go down that road. Just remember paint will make the seams of wallpaper very obvious no matter what paint you use. Once the wallpaper is painted over it is much more difficult to remove.

Segments 1 & 2: Art Appreciation 101ArtPrize is back for it’s 10th year! We discuss the process of viewing art and ways to create a better connection with what is in front of us. We encourage everyone to go out and enjoy the events and festivities. How Long Do People Really Spend Looking at Art in MuseumsArtprizeThe Sword in the SphinxSegment 3: Dealing with GrubsInnocent looking problems in the yard can turn out to be a whole lot of yuck. Are those brown patches of grass pointing to a bigger problem? Find out what to look for and how to fix it. How to Choose and When to Apply Grub Control Products to Your Yard How Late Can I Put Down Grub ControlIs It Too Late to Treat for White GrubsSegment 4: Fall Painting Do's and Don'tsCooler weather heading into fall is a great time to finish last minute paint jobs. HOWEVER, there are still some factors to be aware of. Find out what the cooler temps mean for painting.

Due to a bit of a crazy week, we ended up handpicking some of our favorite segments from the past!SEGMENTS 1 and 2: Composting 101Fall is on the way and it's the perfect time to start composting! If you've never tried your hand at this, check out these segments. We've got all the info you need to jump in with confidence!SEGMENT 3: The Fireplace Paint JobThe fireplace in my home is composed of 80's brick. You know the look. It's dark, it's overpowering . . . it's dated. Well, we painted it and the results are amazing. It's a project EVERYONE can tackle . . . but there are a few things you'll want to know. We cover all of that!SEGMENT 4: Refrigerator MakeoverThis is an unusual one, but every now and then, someone asks! The question? Can I paint my refrigerator? Of course! We'll tell you how....

Segments 1 and 2: The Arctic Tern ProjectWe speak with James Van't Slot about a major DIY project he undertook a number of years back: building a sailboat! Click here if you'd like to check out the images James captured during every step of the project!Segment 3: Renovation Loans with Stockton MortgageAmanda Lehman from Stockton Mortgage gets us all up to speed on a loan that could help you snag your dream home!Segment 4: Solo Stove and RepcoLite's September ContestWe're heading into fall and that means campfires! If you've never heard of a Solo Stove Fire Pit before, we highlight the main reasons you'll want on. Number one on the list? It's smokeless! On top of that, we talk about a new contest that will run in all of our stores this September, giving you a chance to win one!

SEGMENT 1: Safety FirstDan rips his pants...and to put it all behind him we recount a few stories that might help you slow down. We are all guilty of rushing and not taking proper safety precautions...but is it worth it?SEGMENT 2: Dealing with Paint ShortagesProduct shortages are the never ending story right now in almost every industry. We are joined by Kevin Herman; Benjamin Moore Territory Rep to get the scoop on what we are experiencing in the paint industry. We will leave you with a few things to keep in mind during your next visit. SEGMENT 3: Home Buying HopeHailey got a house! It’s been months of searching but it’s finally happened. We go through her house buying journey and what she learned along the way. If you are looking or thinking about looking for a house these tips might help. SEGMENT 4: The Order of Decorating Whether you are decorating an entire house or just a room, the task can be daunting. The trick that can help you is; working “in order”. Many of us paint first but there are some problems that can create...

CLICK HERE FOR THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTESSEGMENT 1: Unfinished BusinessWe have made some promises over the year and we haven’t forgotten! Learn weather that raving review of EGO Lawn Equipment has stood the test time. Plus an extra tip that we forgot to include in the camera as a tool segment. SEGMENT 2: Painting Vinyl FloorsI've seen more and more pictures on instagram and pinterest showing painted vinyl and linoleum floors in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s a simple project with a huge impact especially if you have a limited budget. However, it’s not a perfect solution, tune in to learn what they don't show on instagram. SEGMENT 3: Touch-up PaintRecently we had a listener reach out about touching up paint in her living room. She used the same color and finish but the touch up paint did not blend in and she was back at square one. Learn what you can do now that will save you from the same fate. SEGMENT 4: Stud Finders (and more)You won’t want to miss this confession...as we revisit the topic of drywall anchors, Dan hears his favorite words. Plus we review the easiest and most accurate stud finder we have ever used!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS EPISODE'S SHOW NOTESSEGMENT 1: Rotting Lunchbox StoryI am sure now is the time we are going through school supplies, backpacks and lunch boxes to sort the chaos that came home the last day of school.  Some of us may be discovering there was a lunch box with a truly disgusting surprise. If you find yourself in that situation...there are some tools that might save the day. SEGMENTS 2 and 3: Fireplace MakeoverPainting a brick fireplace is a big commitment but it also makes a giant impact on a space. We have talked about projects like this in the past so we decided to tackle it ourselves and LOVE the results. Tune in to hear about what we learned after we started painting and what tools you need to avoid our mistakes. SEGMENT 4: Window Treatment BloopersJudy Cisler from Gotcha Covered custom window treatments joins us in the studio to discuss some famous mistakes people have made when buying window coverings. They are fun to hear about but not so fun to experience. Learn what not to do next time you shop.

SEGMENT 1: Why are Barns Red?The red barn is an icon of rural America. But why red? We've got the answers...SEGMENT 2: Cramped Bathroom MakeoverInterior designer Lauren Figueroa talks about how she took a dated, cramped bathroom and made it feel large and spacious without changing the square footage! Check out Lauren's work here!SEGMENT 3: Drywall AnchorsSure, when hanging objects on our walls, it's best to anchor them into studs. But, that's not always possible. In those situations, you may need to use a drywall anchor. However . . . there are a wide variety of them and some far outperform others. We've got the scoop!Here's the video we referencedSEGMENT 4: Furniture Shopping 101Furniture is a major purchase and it's important to get it right. Today on the show, we discuss a number of things to consider before you hand over the money for that new couch!

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR FULL SHOWNOTES PAGESegment 1: DeclutteringWe all have cluttered spaces in our home. And yes, sometimes, we've spent a good number of months letting them get that way. But the good news is that decluttering is manageable! In this segment we talk about a few simple steps that will help you get started.Segment 2: The Mud NookMany of us would love to have a huge mudroom . . . . Benches, ample storage for boots and coats . . . . But most of us just don't have the space. In this segment, we speak with Michaela Noelle from Michaela Noelle Designs about a small mudroom "nook" she and her husband pulled together. Segment 3: Kitchen Cleaner ReviewWe discuss 4 of the internet's most recommended kitchen cleaners and see how they perform. Also, we stumble into another cleaner that is basically a weapon of nearly unlimited power. It can do stuff that few other cleaners we've ever used can do . . . . But as they say, with great power comes great responsibility . . . .Segment 4: Painting FoundationsUnpainted foundations . . . or foundations that have been patched . . . can give your home a bit of an unfinished look. If you're looking for an inexpensive curb appeal project with a big payoff, this might be for you!

Segment 1: Color ConsultationsWe often mention that we have color consultants in our stores that are ready to help. However, some people may be left wondering what exactly a color consultation is or when they are helpful… so to give us some insight on the process we are joined by our Fulton St. Color Consultant Myra Maness. Segments 2 and 3: Deck TransformationCoating a deck is probably the most common exterior DIY project. Yet most of us are prone to avoiding the process because the prep work can take days. Luckily there is a way around this! We’ll tell you exactly how we made a deck look brand new in under 5 hours! Segment 4: The Pictures We Forget to Take Whether we like it or not most of us are attached to our phones, so why not put them to work? We discuss some of the smart ways to use your phone's camera as a tool during your next project.

Segment 1: Refrigerator Paint JobWe received a question from a listener wondering if it was possible to paint his refrigerator. Actually, it's a relatively simple project provided you follow a few basic steps!Segment 2: The Ins & Outs and Ups & Downs of Window Treatments!Judy Cisler from Gotcha Covered of Grand Rapids joins us in the studio to discuss window treatments. We talk about the terminology and how you can decide which ones are right for your home.Segment 3: Foundational IssuesZack Krieger from Ayers Basement Systems speaks with us about concerns regarding the foundations of our homes. He talks about some common problems and the solutions. And of course, he provides us with a number of things to look for so you can determine if your home's foundation needs a little expert help.Segment 4: Refrigerators RevisitedTo wrap up the show, we return full circle to refrigerators. In the opening segment we talked about how to paint them. This time we talk about some interesting design ideas and fun "refrigerator makeovers" that are cropping up all over Instagram.

Segment 1: Nagging Laundry Room ProjectsWe talk about these things often, but that's because they're important AND easy to forget about! So today we cover a couple laundry room maintenance tasks that you should be accomplishing.Segments 2 and 3: 8 Details to Consider in Your Next Kitchen UpdateWe chat with Interior Designer, Lauren Figueroa, about eight design details you may want to consider if you're looking at a kitchen update. Check out her blog post below:8 Details to Consider In Your Next Kitchen Update Segment 4: Kitchen Updates on a BudgetNot everyone is in a spot right now where a full kitchen update is possible. (I'm not!!) And so, for those of us in that situation, we thought we'd talk about the tremendous difference a simple kitchen cabinet repaint can make in your home!

Segment 1: The "Old Glory" StoryDan recounts the dramatic tale of how the flag won the nickname "Old Glory". Segment 2: Flag EtiquetteThere are rules when it comes to proudly displaying the old "Stars and Stripes". And we're going to bet that a number of you are breaking at least one or two of them! We talk about the proper way to respectfully display the American Flag and we talk about the rituals that make up the "retirement" ceremony of a flag when it reaches that age!Segment 3: Styling Shelves the Easy WayInterior Designer, Michaela Noelle, joins us to talk some key mistakes to avoid when styling shelves. She also walks us through her 4-step process to beautiful built-ins! 4 Steps to Style Your Bookshelves by Michaela Noelle DesignsSegment 4: Finding a ContractorContractors are crazy busy right now! We talk with RepcoLite's sales manager, Ryan Mullen about the best steps to finding and hiring a contractor for that next project. (Hint: the BEST tip is to start looking NOW).

Segment 1: Recycling the Right Way Are you a contaminator or are you shutting down recycling plants?? There are big stakes when it comes to what we put in our recycling bins. Learn how to avoid the most common recycling mistakes!Kent County Accepted MaterialsRecycling 101Grocery Bag RecyclingSegment 2 & 3: Meeting the Man Behind the Chat Peter Ogle from our online chat joins us in the studio! Peter has been manning our online chat from 8am - 9pm M-F to make sure your questions can always be answered. Today we go over some of the most common questions. Segment 4: Beautiful Lawns All Summer LongDan inherited a flawless lawn when he bought his house and it's been stressful knowing how to keep it looking great. We have tips to take the guesswork out of having a healthy, beautiful lawn this summer. How to Grow Deep Grass RootsImproving Grass GrowthLawn Watering Tips

Segment 1: Happy Fathers Day!Dan recounts some of his favorite childhood memories of his Dad and the lessons that come along with them. Segment 2: The Unexpected History of Ladders There are a lot of everyday tools and objects that we take for granted. We never stop to think where it all began...In the case of the Ladder its story begins in Spain, as cave paintings, that date back to 10,000 BC! We dig into the innovations as well as the 40 years of bad luck! Fun Superstitious Fixes from HistorySegment 3: Is Painter's Tape worth it?Taping is our least favorite part of the paint job and most masking tapes will still allow paint to bleed through. Leaving you to wonder; is it really worth it? We put 7 painters tapes to the test to find out! Check Out Our Test Board for Some Razor Sharp Results!Segment 4: Paint Baseboards not the CarpetIf the last segment didn’t get you hooked on tape this one is sure to. Painting baseboards can get really messy when you have carpet on the floor. Tools sold as carpet shields rarely live up to the name but we have found the magic trick that offers flawless results.

SEGMENT 1: COLOR CAPTURELast week we talked about finding color inspiration in unexpected places. Now we highlight a tool that can turn your inspirational photos into a color palette of Benjamin Moore colors. You won't believe how fun and easy it is to match the colors you are inspired by. What is this magic tool? Tune to find out! SEGMENT 2: EGO BATTERY POWERED YARD EQUIPMENTDan recently purchased new lawn equipment when he saw a deal for EGO battery powered, string trimmer, blower and Hedge trimmer. In the past he preferred gas or electric so he was interested in putting these battery powered tools to the test! The reviews are in...SEGMENT 3: MOSQUITO WARS We see a lot of articles claiming that planting things such as lavender, citronela, lemongrass and Rosemary will keep mosquitos at bay...However, there is more to the story. We have put together a system that combines natural ways of taking your yard back from Mosquitos. Homemade Insect Repellant RecipeSEGMENT 4: FIXING THOSE FENCESOur show experienced technical difficulties last week when the radio station that airs each of these episodes failed to start our show on time! So this segment (which included a giveaway) never aired for all of those listeners. So, this week we included it again so the on-air audience could be a part of the contest. We apologize to all the podcast subscribers who caught this one twice!

Segment 1 -- WelsummerHailey launches the new Instagram Color Palette for June and discusses the inspiration behind it: a previous customer who chose her entire color scheme for her home based on the varied colors of eggs in her chicken coop! In the segment, we discuss the importance of looking everywhere for inspiration when it comes to paint colors. Segments 2 & 3 -- Egress Windows with Ayers Basement SystemsWe are joined by Zach Kreiger from Ayers Basement to discuss the value of Egress Windows. Zach runs through everything we should be considering if we are debating installing an egress window. Segment 4 -- The Ugly Side of Fences In this segment we address old, grayed, and weathered fences. They can detract from the look of your property and there really are some great stain and sealer options out there that will help you improve their appearance. Also, even if the wood is cedar or pressure treated pine, a sealer or stain will protect it and help it last much longer!

SEGMENT 1: Memorial Day Dan flies solo and shares stories of families with fallen heroes. As we enjoy the festivities this weekend, let’s take pause to remember what Memorial Day represents. A Simple Day by Yolanda AcevedoStories of Those We LostSEGMENTS 2 & 3: Maintenance Free?The maintenance-free promises of vinyl siding often come up short. Even vinyl needs regular maintenance such as cleaning and inspection. We talk about how to catch the problems your siding might be hiding and answer the age old question...can you paint it?SEGMENT 4: Here Comes the Judge Tick magnet, Dan, is ditching the trails for neighborhood sidewalks... and what kind of Home Improvement Show would this be if he didn’t spend those walks noticing...and perhaps, judging the homes he passes? Luckily we have the solution to a common problem he is seeing.  

Segment 1: Tick ExplosionTick populations are exploding in Michigan! Warmer winters and bird migration have contributed to a rise in the tick population in west Michigan. We talk about a few simple ways to help protect your whole family this summer. More info on avoiding ticks!Segment 2-3 : Where Do You Stop?Is painted trim right for you? We weigh the pros and cons of painting your trim and explain how to tackle this project yourself. We also discuss the growing trend of painting the trim colors other than white! The sky's the limit for color but if you aren't painting all the trim where do you start and stop? Tune in for an easy rule of thumb. Where to stop when changing colorsSegment 4: Junk Royalty Dan is clearing out the barn! We know he’s not the only one with junk to get rid of so we thought we’d discuss all the options. Whether you need to hire a service to haul it away for you or just need to know where to take it, we’ve got you covered! Junk KingsMike's Junk HaulingCollege HunksPadnos Metal RecyclingSalvation Army

On this episode:Composting is a great way to cut down on the amount of trash filling your garbage can . . . . We talk about the how-to's and even jump into a little science to make sure you're off on the right foot.Supply chain shortages are impacting many industries right now. We discuss the problem and the outlook with Brad Krause, president of Service Professor.There are small projects that can improve the curb appeal of your home. We dig into a few of them and discuss a number of considerations when choosing color!

On this episode:We speak with Michaela from Michaela Noelle Designs about her latest project. White's white, right? Nope! We discuss undertones in paint colors and how to train your eye to see them!RepcoLite's president, Dan Altena discusses a couple cutting edge products that recently hit the shelves.Dan and Hailey give 12-Stars and 4 Thumbs-up to another Gem of West Michigan. Maybe it's time for a road trip!