The RepcoLite Home Improvement Show

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, Dan and Hailey, talk about the steps necessary to prepare a stenciled wall for paint.The conversation also covers trends in outdoor spaces for 2024, highlighting pavers, walls, and patio design, with an emphasis on creating comfortable and stylish outdoor living areas. Finally, they discuss the resurgence in popularity of wallpaper, focusing on grass cloth wallpaper, including its pros, cons, and tips for installation. CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to the Home Improvement Show!03:41 Expert Tips on Prepping Walls for Painting over Stencils07:28 Exploring 2024 Trends in Outdoor Spaces with Chris Harkema20:10 Exploring Patio Design and Outdoor Living Spaces21:11 Incorporating Outdoor Kitchens into Your Space22:03 Budget-Friendly Outdoor Living Solutions23:23 Designing Your Outdoor Space in Phases24:06 2024 Trends in Patio Design and Outdoor Spaces25:23 New Partnerships and Product Offerings26:48 Expanding and Enhancing Outdoor and Indoor Offerings30:07 The Charm and Challenges of Grass Cloth Wallpaper

This episode covers the introduction of Woodluxe, a new exterior stain from Benjamin Moore, ideal for wood exteriors such as siding, fences, and decks. Also, Dan talks about how the winter blues are impacting his creativity and productivity at home and work. However, a recent visit to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park turned out to be the medicine he needed! The episode also addresses dealing with pet shedding, particularly for owners of high-shed breeds like Golden Retrievers. Anna from Petcuts Grooming in Zeeland offers expert advice on managing shedding and the importance of regular grooming for pet health and spotting potential health issues.00:00 Welcome to the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show!01:46 Battling the Winter Blues with Creativity03:45 A Refreshing Visit to Frederik Meijer Gardens08:00 Maximizing Your Visit08:46 On the Road: Discussing Woodluxe with Kevin Herman10:16 Understanding Woodluxe: A Deep Dive into Exterior Stains18:40 Application Tips for Woodluxe Exterior Stain19:58 Choosing Between Oil and Water-Based Stains20:53 The Benefits of Oil-Based Stains in Extreme Weather21:33 Deck Maintenance: Prepping and Choosing the Right Stain23:59 Advanced Deck Prep: Using the On Floor Machine for Sanding26:10 Recoating and Maintenance Tips for Your Deck29:59 Pet Grooming Tips: Managing Shedding at Home

On this episode of the Repcolite Home Improvement Show, Dan and Hailey revisit a favorite episode from the past.They discuss a variety of topics including handling lead paint in older homes, the intricacies of beekeeping as a hobby, and offering detailed advice on repainting steel doors, particularly the steps involved in dealing with peeling paint. 00:00 Kicking Off with a Rerun Announcement01:45 Diving into Haley's Home Improvement Journey09:08 Exploring the Intricacies of Beekeeping18:45 The Practical Challenges of Beekeeping21:51 Navigating Beekeeping Challenges22:17 Choosing Between Package Bees and Nucs23:14 The Importance of Local Beekeeping Knowledge25:24 A Dive into Bee Society: Roles and Lifespans27:28 Understanding Bee Jobs and Hive Maintenance30:02 Getting Started with Beekeeping: Costs and Considerations32:09 Transition to Painting Projects: Prepping and Painting Doors

This week on the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, Dan and Hailey discuss a color consultation experience, providing insights into the challenges of selecting the right color and the impact of color drenching a space. Additionally, Dan interviews Niahl Sheena from Window World to discuss the trend of black replacement windows, the pros and cons of vinyl vs. wood windows, and factors to consider before making a purchase. Finally, the episode touches on a major sale aimed at contractors and DIYers alike! 00:00 Show intro01:55 Transforming Spaces: The Power of Color Consultation07:22 Exploring the Trend: Black Windows with Niall Sheena11:22 Diving Deeper into Black Windows: Vinyl vs. Wood20:53 Navigating Window Choices: Color and Durability23:13 The Science of Window Efficiency and Heat Management28:20 Aesthetic Considerations for Window Installation30:56 Promo Time: Big Savings on Home Improvement Supplies31:41 Funny Mishaps and the Importance of Getting Details Right

On Today's EpisodeDan and Hailey discuss a trainwreck of a paint project that Dan engineered in his home. It's a funny look at some really common mistakes that ALL of us make from time to time. After that, Zack Krieger from Ayers Basement Systems joins Dan for a conversation about sump pumps. If you don't have one in your home, there's a lot of information for you right here! And if you do have a sump pump already in place, Zack has some great tips to help you make sure it's ready for the Spring rains that are heading our way eventually.Finally, in the last segment we get back to Dan's miserable paint project. But this time the focus is on how you can achieve great results everytime you paint. It's not tough. It's not rocket science. But it takes a plan! CHAPTERS00:00 Introducing Today's Home Improvement Topics01:50 Dan's Paint Project Dissected07:14 Diving Deep into Sump Pumps with Expert Zach Kroeger08:17 Exploring Basement Refinishing and Expansion Services19:12 Diving Deeper into Sump Pumps: Features and Benefits22:22 Exploring Crawl Space Solutions: Smart Sump Systems23:47 Addressing Water Issues: Expert Advice and Solutions28:39 Ensuring Your Sump Pump is Spring-Ready: Maintenance Tips31:59 Navigating Paint Projects: Tips for Success

This episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show starts with a STELLAR experience Dan had with the junk hauling franchise, 1-800-GotJunk. From there they talk about a common paint problem--hat banding or picture framing--and how to prevent it. Finally, they highlight a color sample sale from Benjamin Moore, offering advice on selecting and testing paint colors effectively. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:35 Spring Cleaning with a Junk Removal Service: A Personal Tale06:11 The Hilarious Junk Removal Experience and Its Aftermath15:51 What is Hat Banding in Painting Projects?18:03 Understanding and Preventing Hat Banding25:15 Color Sampling Sale and Best Practices for Great Results27:46 Navigating Color Choices: From Selection to Application39:09 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

On this episode, Dan and Hailey delve into a big discussion regarding fences. Fences can make good neighbors . . . but they can also stress out some relationships! Dan and Hailey have the answers to help you navigate a fence conversation with your neighbors. Maybe you're going to install a fence . . . maybe they have and you're concerned about how it looks. None of that is easy ground to cover . . . but there are some tips to help. Additionally, they talk about the benefits of using drywall primer and the importance of utilizing color consultations for homeowners, businesses, contractors, and realtors. They discuss the impact of color on brand perception for businesses, how color can enhance curb appeal for realtors or individuals selling their home, and the efficiency color consultations can bring to painting contractors. 00:00 Introduction and Show Overview01:05 Fence Etiquette: The Do's and Don'ts03:09 Fence Etiquette: Dealing with Neighbors06:06 Fence Etiquette: Style and Neighborhood Compatibility10:19 Fence Etiquette: Property Lines and Disputes15:15 Fence Etiquette: Painting and Staining Dilemmas18:40 The Importance of Drywall Primer19:53 Finger Skateboarding: A Curious Trend20:22 Welcome to the Replica Light Home Improvement Show20:26 The Importance of Priming Drywall21:02 The Benefits of Priming: A Detailed Discussion21:38 The Art of Painting: Techniques and Challenges22:36 The Economics of Priming: Saving Money with the Right Approach26:27 The Contest Announcement: Win a Color Consultation26:54 The Value of Color Consultations for Businesses, Realtors, and Contractors35:45 Color Consultation Tips for Homeowners37:47 The Big Contest: How to Enter and Win38:40 Wrapping Up: Subscribe, Review, and Join Us Again

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan and Hailey discuss a week filled with unexpected pest encounters, including ticks, spiders, and an incident with a house centipede. They provide insights on the benefits house centipedes offer by eating other undesirable bugs, though they also share the heart-attack-inducing fact that female centipedes can live up to three to five years and produce a vast number of offspring. Practical advice is given on how to manage household pests by eliminating food sources and sealing up the home. Additionally, they discuss the Festool ETS 125 sander and make a case for why you might need one! Finally, they focus on the concept of color consultations, explaining who can benefit from this service, what it entails, and how to enter a contest to win a personal consultation with Hailey.00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back00:25 Launching a Contest and Discussing Festool Sanders00:34 Bugs, Ticks, and Spiders: A Week in Review02:06 The Unexpected Benefits of House Centipedes03:24 How to Get Rid of House Centipedes05:21 Introducing Festool Sanders06:43 Why Festool Sanders are Worth the Investment11:59 Who Should Consider Buying Festool Sanders14:06 The Benefits of Festool Sanders for Hobbyists and Professionals18:04 Unbiased Reviews and High Prices18:22 Demo Models and Customer Feedback18:40 Exciting Contest Announcement19:01 The Value of Color Consultations19:28 The Contest Details and Benefits20:32 The Role of a Color Consultant23:02 The Pitfalls of Asking Family for Color Advice24:21 The Expertise of a Color Consultant26:14 The Importance of Sampling Colors30:52 The Follow-up and Final Recommendations31:22 How to Enter the Contest38:47 Wrapping Up and Contest Reminder

On Today's EpisodeDan flies solo and talks about painting aluminum siding. Later, he's joined by realtors, Sue Prins and Ginger Herman who discuss crucial elements to consider when buying vacant land. Furthermore, they also shed light on the current state of the housing market and predictions for the coming months.The show wraps up with Kevin Hermann, from Benjamin Moore. Kevin's a long-time guest and today he discusses his favorite Benjamin Moore and RepcoLite Products. Can I Paint Aluminum Siding? [00:00 - 07:19]In this segment, Dan talks about a question he's received from some friends who just bought a new house with an absolutely HIDEOUS color on their aluminum siding. They want to know--of course--if they can paint it! Dan confirms that not only is it possible to paint aluminum siding using regular, non-specialty paints, but he also believes that the endeavor is worth undertaking if the current color of the siding significantly bothers the homeowner. Buying Vacant Land with Sue Prins and Ginger Herman [07:19 - 19:00]The conversation features Ginger Herman and Sue Prins from the Sue Prins Group Five-Star Real Estate Leaders, discussing the key considerations in buying vacant land. The discussion covers the importance of understanding a buyer's purpose for acquiring the land, whether it be for farming, house construction, or simply storage. They underscore the role of a knowledgeable realtor in identifying challenges such as availability of water, sewer, and the need for local authority permissions based on intended land use. They further delve into essential factors like the need for a PERC test to ensure the land is suitable for septic system installation. They additionally highlight a realtor's role in facilitating a buyer's understanding of other critical elements such as zoning restrictions, mineral rights, flood plains, and the possibility of land splitting. The conversation ends with a plan to discuss financial considerations and the current state of the real estate market in the next segment.The State of the Real Estate Market [19:00 - 29:59]Dan continues his discussion with Ginger Herman and Sue Prins from Sue Prins Group, focusing on procedures for getting a loan for vacant land purchases, and programs for landowners looking to build within five years. The interview also provides information on special loans for hunting properties and farmland. The demand for vacant land in certain areas can lead to bidding wars, just like for houses. The conversation then delves into the state of the regular real estate market. The market has sped up with an increase in multiple offers situation, although not as many as before. More home inspections are being conducted more frequently. Housing inventory has started to slowly increase becoming a seller's market. Also, mortgage interest rates are slowly but surely coming down.Favorite Paints & Why That Should Matter to You! [29:59 - 39:26]In this segment, Dan chats with Kevin Hermann from Benjamin Moore about Kevin's three favorite Benjamin Moore products, highlighting their superior quality, durability and versatility. The products are Regal Select, Scuff-X, and Regal Select Exterior. He also reveals his favorite RepcoLite products, praising Zip Prime and #65 Exterior Primer. Besides product discussion, they also touch on the implications and changes brought about by new OTC-2 regulations affecting the paint industry.

This week, Dan and Hailey revisit the Kenmore Air Purifier that Hailey swears is a little miracle machine. Well, Dan bought one. What is his experience with it? They also run a quick Drill Driver/Impact Driver 101 class, making sure you know when and where to use one or the other.From there, the discussion focuses on the 'Wrong Shoe Theory'--an interesting trend in which intentionally mismatching elements can make fashion and home design more eye-catching and personal.Finally, the show wraps up with a discussion of the pros and cons of traditional solvent-thinned coatings. 00:01 Introduction01:35 Hailey's Air Purifier Experience04:25 Drill and Driver Functions Explained11:10 Impact Drivers vs Drill Drivers18:43 How the Wrong Footwear Can Influence Interior Design19:28 The Wrong Shoe Theory in Fashion20:59 Applying the Wrong Shoe Theory to Interior Design21:44 Personalizing Your Space with the Wrong Shoe Theory22:25 Layering Different Time Periods in Design24:13 Experimenting with the Wrong Shoe Theory25:25 The Pros and Cons of Solvent-Thinned Coatings38:05 Wrapping Up and Social Media Engagement

On Today's EpisodeThis week Dan and Hailey talk about one of the big Problem Solvers in the paint world: stain blocking primers. You may not know about them . . . but they can save you from a lot of frustration! They also discuss the benefits and practical ways to implement Complimentary Color Schemes in your home design to achieve a dynamic, harmonious look. They offer advice on how to avoid common pitfalls and keep the design subtle yet impactful, ensuring it fits well with the rest of your home. Finally, they focus on Hailey's recent experience with her newly purchased Kenmore air purifier, its benefits for indoor air quality, and its impact on allergies. A Stain Blocking Primer That Works! [00:00 - 06:56]Dan and Hailey talk about RepcoLite's Zip Prime, a stain-blocking primer that's ideal for addressing smoke damage, water stains, or tannin stains in wood. They also address the changes in Michigan VOC regulations and explain why Zip Prime is one of the only options out there for people who want an old-fashioned, traditional stain-blocker that works everytime. Keys to Great Design: Complimentary Color Schemes [06:57 - 33:53]In these segments, Hailey dissects the concept of color schemes as a part of color theory and describes how these can affect the atmosphere of a room. She gives detailed advice on how to make color choices less daunting, with a focus on using complementary colors. Examples from the color wheel are presented to better understand how these combinations work. The advantages of using color schemes, particularly complementary ones, are highlighted. Visual fatigue, room dynamics, space definition, and color harmony with adjoining rooms are among the important aspects discussed. Hailey uses her personal experience and professional expertise to give practical tips on successfully incorporating these schemes into home design, emphasizing the importance of color saturation, determining the main and accent colors, and considering the appearance of the entire house. In addition to discussion, visual aids for these color schemes are promised to be shared on the show's social media platforms. Dan's just here for looks.Clearing the Air with the Kenmore PM2010 [33:53 - 39:22]In this segment, Dan and Hailey discuss the importance of indoor air quality and the use of air purifiers. Hailey shares her positive experience with her Kenmore PM2010 air purifier which she uses to combat dust, mold, pet dander, and cooking fumes that can contribute to allergies. She explains that, with the purifier at work, she has noticed a significant improvement in the air quality in her home. CHAPTERS00:01 Introduction and Apology to Tessa02:41 Introduction to Today's Topics03:22 Discussion on Zip Prime06:56 Introduction to Color Theory11:56 The Benefits of Complementary Color Schemes19:24 The Art of Using Opposite Colors20:38 Understanding Saturation and Its Role in Color Selection21:32 How to Desaturate Colors for Better Design25:45 Choosing the Star and Supporting Characters in Your Color Scheme26:23 Applying Complementary Color Schemes in Your Home33:55 The Importance of Indoor Air Quality34:10 The Benefits of an Air Purifier

On Today's EpisodeThe episode is largely focused on the discussion of mold and mildew in the home, tackling the topics of mold anxiety, how to identify and differentiate mold and mildew, how to clean and treat them, and prevention tips. Chaz Varady from Koala Insulation stops by and shares expert knowledge on types of insulation, where to use them, and common insulation problems homeowners face. Dealing with Mold and Mildew [00:00 - 09:10]Dan and Hailey discuss mold and mildew, detailing their similarities and differences. They give out advice on how to identify both and handle infestations. Cleaning tips and when to consider professional help are touched on, stressing the speed of mold growth and potential health concerns. Insulation Solutions with Koala Insulation [09:10 - 30:19]Dan and Hailey are joined by Chaz Varady, the sales and marketing manager from Koala Insulation of Grand Rapids. Chaz explains that insulation is about controlling heat, to keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Chaz emphasizes the importance of the R-value, which measures the rate heat passes and transfers through insulation. He talks about how codes have improved over the years, setting higher R-value standards for walls and attics. Different insulation options such as blown-in fiberglass, blown-in cellulose, open-cell spray foam, and batts are outlined during the discussion. Chaz highlights that the choice of insulation depends on the customer's needs and house conditions, and homeowners may also need to consider ventilation in their attics. He gives information about the potential issues with old insulation and necessary removal and replacement procedures. The conversation also touches upon the possibility of mold in an attic caused by bad insulation and the solutions to treat it. Chaz mentions the financial incentives for homeowners, like rebates from energy companies and tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act for implementing energy-efficient upgrades.on customer needs, specific specifications, as well as the geographical location of the house. They wrap up the conversation by discussing a newer method of insulation called 'wall spray' or 'wet spray', mainly used for new builds.10 Mold Prevention Techniques [32:34 - 39:28]Dan and Hailey discuss strategies for preventing mold and mildew in the home. Solutions include using a dehumidifier, installing smart hygrometers, ensuring proper ventilation in susceptible areas like the bathroom and laundry room, storing items correctly in damp-prone areas, and more. These tips help keep homes safe, comfortable, and mold-free.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:12 Understanding Mold and Mildew01:39 Differences Between Mold and Mildew05:24 How to Treat Mold and Mildew09:01 Insulation Talk with Koala Insulation10:10 Understanding Insulation and R-Values12:47 Different Types of Insulation19:43 Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Home21:36 Identifying Insulation Issues22:53 Understanding the Importance of Ventilation23:51 Dealing with Mold and Infestations25:56 Insulation Lifespan and Replacement26:27 Energy Efficiency Rebates and Tax Credits27:28 Insulation and Ventilation Services28:50 Contacting Koala Insulation29:51 Conclusion and Wrap-up30:05 Preventing Mold and Mildew

On Today's EpisodeDan and Hailey discuss the effects of screen time on mental and physical health, exampling its addictive nature. The conversation shifts to cleaning, with specific sections dedicated to using steam cleaners and cordless vacuums. From there, they talk about how you can determine if the paint in your garage or basement is still good as well as how you should store paint so it remains in good condition. Finally, they cover a few caulk questions from listeners.00:00 Introduction and Show Overview01:35 The Impact of Screen Time on Our Lives04:36 Exploring the Dangers of Interactive Screen Time06:53 The Influence of Technology on Our Daily Lives15:35 The Power of a Steam Cleaner22:23 The Joy of a Cordless Vacuum24:50 The Pros and Cons of Cordless Vacuums27:53 The Unexpected History of Carrots29:47 The Strange Trend of Butter in Coffee30:26 The Importance of Proper Paint Storage30:57 The Dangers of Using Bad Paint32:24 The Proper Way to Store and Use Paint33:19 The Difference Between Caulk and Spackle33:58 The Importance of Using the Right Caulk35:18 The Proper Way to Store and Use Caulk40:56 The Big Game Contest Announcement

On Today's EpisodeDan and Hailey discuss some practical tips so you can get professional results the next time you caulk.Then, design expert, Andy Yates joins the show to discuss upcoming design trends for 2024, including a resurgence of a more organic, 70s-inspired aesthetic paired with the technology of smart homes. Finally, they break down how homeowners can approach their design projects and how to ensure their home reflects their personal style.Getting Professional Results When Caulking [00:00 - 08:18]Dan and Hailey review the importance of caulking during home improvement projects, highlighting four key reasons for caulking around houses. Then, they dig into some crucial tips that will help you get professional results when caulking even if you're new to the skill! KEY POINTS00:01 Introduction and Casual Conversation00:27 Introduction to the Show and Upcoming Topics00:36 Discussion on Weather and Pets01:36 Introduction to Guest Speaker and Design Trends02:20 Caulking Tips and Tricks03:41 How to Get Great Results with Caulking06:10 Practical Tips for Caulking08:04 Closing Remarks and Teaser for Next SegmentDesign Trends for 2024 with Andy Yates [18:58 - 32:34]Dan and Hailey are joined by Andy Yates from Andy Yates Design. They discuss the upcoming trends in design for 2024, including a resurgence of 1970s decor and a blending of different eras. Andy shares his insights into the future of interior design, emphasizing textures and a move towards softer, more muted colors.Additionally, they discuss the increasing integration of smart technology into homes and how homeowners should use research to figure out which design elements best fit their personal aesthetic. Importantly, they underscore the need for a home's interior to reflect the owner's personal style and taste exactly. They wrap up by discussing how to bring together all elements of design in a coherent way that works for the homeowner.08:20 Introduction and Welcoming Guest08:45 Discussing Design Predictions for 202409:41 Exploring Trends in Finishes and Materials10:42 The Influence of Texture in Design11:57 The Resurgence of 70s and 80s Design Aesthetics12:27 The Impact of Younger Consumers on Design Trends19:39 The Role of Technology in Modern Home Design30:01 Practical Tips for Homeowners Starting a Design Project38:49 Conclusion and Contact Information

EPISODE 341 SHOW SUMMARYJanuary 13, 2024SEGMENT 1: Festool Comes to RepcoLiteIn this segment, Dan and Hailey share the news that RepcoLite will become a Festool dealer. They highlight Festool's innovative and well-engineered tools, specifically their sanding equipment which is well-known for its ability to leave the work environment dust-free. Additionally, they mention the history of Festool from 1925 till date.KEY POINTS:Introduction to the RepcoLite Home Improvement ShowBig News for RepcoLite: Introduction to FestoolDeep Dive into Festool's History and OfferingsFestool's Major Advancements in Circular Saws and SandersConclusion and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 2: The Science and Psychology of Color in Home Design with Cheryl AdamsIn this segment, Dan and Hailey interview Certified Design and Color Specialist Cheryl Adams. She discusses the importance of understanding the science of color and how it affects people's perceptions and feelings.Cheryl emphasizes the need to consider paint colors alongside other materials when planning home improvements. The show also announces a free presentation by Cheryl for those interested in learning more about choosing the right colors and materials. The presentation will be held on January 20th at the Birmingham RepcoLite store. Towards the end, Cheryl details how to contact her for personal consultations.CHERYL'S CONTACT INFO:cheryl@colorconfidenthome.com248-509-4720JANUARY 20 "COLOR CONFIDENTLY" SEMINAR INFO:Saturday, January 2011 AM to 2 PMRepcoLite Location in BirminghamTo reserve a spot, call: 248-646-5924KEY POINTS:IntroductionUnderstanding the Role of a Color SpecialistThe Importance of Color in Different SettingsAnnouncement of Upcoming PresentationKey Points of the PresentationThe Impact of Lighting on ColorChoosing the Right Paint Colors and MaterialsHow to Contact Cheryl for a ConsultationDetails of the PresentationClosing Remarks and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 3: Home Improvement Goals and Strategies for 2024Dan and Hailey discuss their home improvement plans for 2024 and offer tips on how to tackle ambitious projects. They underscore the importance of breaking these projects down into manageable steps, starting with identifying what has previously hindered progress. Hailey plans to take on painting the exterior of her house herself and plans to tackle it in smaller steps: one side at a time. It's all about taking small, achievable steps toward big goals. For Dan, the project is painting a space in his home. Seems straightforward, but he's wanted to do it for years but hasn't. For him, the path to success is first in identifying why he hasn't already done it. Turns out there's a reason beyond the obvious one of which he was aware! KEY POINTS:Introduction and Overview of Upcoming ProjectsHaley's Home Improvement Goals for 2024Breaking Down Big Projects into Manageable TasksThe Power of Small Steps in Achieving Big GoalsDiscussing Other Home Improvement ProjectsOvercoming Obstacles in Home Improvement ProjectsThe Importance of Getting Help and Making a PlanConclusion and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 4: The Importance and Benefits of CaulkingIn this...

On Today's EpisodeThis episode is all about Dave Altena, the second-generation president of RepcoLite Paints, who recently passed away. Dave's son, Dan, the current president of the company, interviewed with his dad three weeks before he passed away.The interview provides insights into the origins of the family-owned and operated business, their journey of navigating the industry, their ambition to be the best, the success of their products, and the long-standing tradition of old-fashioned service. The episode emphasizes the value and role of direct interaction with their customers in their longevity and success despite the increased digitalization and other changes in the retail industry. KEY MOMENTS00:01 Introduction and New Year Wishes01:57 Remembering Dave Altena 03:00 Interview with Dave Altena: The Early Days of Repcolite06:33 The Evolution of Repcolite and the Paint Industry14:49 Memories of Working at Repcolite16:47 Reflections on Company Longevity and Employee Dedication17:47 The Challenges and Rewards of Retirement18:21 The Importance of Embracing Change in Business28:54 The Origin and Evolution of the Company's Name35:31 The Legacy and Impact of the Company's Products38:21 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

On Today's EpisodeOrganizing For the New Year [00:00 - 18:59]It's a New Year (almost). So it's time to get organized....Hailey's New Steamer [18:58 - 32:16]Hailey recently purchased a new steamer and she's amazed at all the cleaning power this thing has. Dupray Steam CleanerRemoving Wallpaper [32:16 - 39:21]It doesn't have to be the horrible job we always assume it will be!

On Today's EpisodeThe History of Snowmen [00:00 - 12:20]Snowmen go back WAY FARTHER than you may think!Christmas Traditions from Around the World [12:20 - 30:15]These traditions from around the world are absolutely hilarious!The Christmas Orange and Last Contest Question [30:15 - 38:59]We look at the history of the Christmas orange and then give out the last question for our Christmas contest!

On Today's EpisodeHow to Get the Perfect Paint Match [00:00 - 09:41]RepcoLite specializes in matching paints and stains (and more!) but not everyone is aware of that. So we're letting you know because color matches can be life-savers! Maybe you need to repair some damage on a wall, or maybe you need to replace a piece of trim. A color match can make those repairs flawless. But to get the best results, there are some things you can do to help!THE TARGET MATTERS!If you're matching paint on your wall or trim, bring us a sample of the actual paint on the surface. So, bring in a piece of the trim if you can. If the color you need matched is on the wall, cut out a piece of the face paper from the drywall. Be careful--you'll need to patch it later--but grab one from an area that's been exposed to the light. Don't grab one from a closet because it might not match. Just try to find one from an out of the way spot to make your patch easier!If you're matching wallpaper, wait until you've got your actual wallpaper in hand! Don't match from a book or from a sample.If you're matching to an old gallon of paint, don't bring us just a cutting from the label or the paint formula. Instead, bring the whole can with you! If there's wet paint in there, we can make any number of samples!Finally, bring as much as you can--don't be embarrassed. Bring your comforters, your pillows, your couch cushions!LET 'EM COOKMy kids use that phrase to let me know that I need to be patient--I need to let them have time to plan, to think, to work. Same is true with color matches! Sometimes we can crank them out quickly. Other times, it takes some time to dial it in. So, drop off your match and then run some errands! In a couple hours, we should have it ready for you!CALL AHEAD WITH QUESTIONSLast bit of advice: call ahead and tell us what you're working on. We'll tell you what you should bring us for the best results!Timeless Design: Morris & Co. Wallpaper [09:41 - 18:59]Wallpaper is something we talk about a lot. And in the recent past, we've talked about contemporary designs. We've wanted to focus on how wallpaper is current and trendy and definitely something to check out. But we haven't focused on another superpower of wallpaper: to connect us with history and tradition!Morris and Co. Wallpaper draws its inspiration from designs from over 100 years ago. And it's still available for purchase today. In this segment, we talk about William Morris, the founder.Also, as we mentioned, RepcoLite is one of only 2 places in Michigan where you can order Morris & Co. wallpaper! We've got their books in our Fulton Street store in Grand Rapids, and our Lakewood Blvd. location in Holland. The 2024 Last Minute Gift Guide [18:59 - 39:21]The RepcoLite Home Improvement Show Gift Guide is an annual classic. This year, here's our list of gifts to consider:BOY and GOING SOLO by Roald DahlChildren's author, Roald Dahl, wrote his autobiography in two different volumes: Boy, and Going Solo. These books are not your average, boring, dry, autobiography. They are short stories of events from Dahl's childhood (Boy) and his time in the RAF in the war (Going Solo). The stories are beautiful, funny, sad, and profound. They are amazing books and can be shared with anybody--you don't need to be a Roald Dahl fan to enjoy them! Find both of them in one volume, right here.TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARKLooking for some fun on a zip line? Want to run an obstacle course as a team-building exercise or...

On Today's EpisodeThere is a common paint problem that happens in high moisture areas… a slimy orange substance oozes from the wall! We will explain what is happening and how you avoid this problem in your bathroom. Historic ceilings were often decorated with ceiling medallions but why did this trend start? Turns out there is a lot of debate around the subject! We will dig into the surprising history and propose a theory of our own!Every story needs an ending…but how does this apply to design? We will finish our ceiling conversation AND tell you everything you need to know to get entered into our Christmas Giveaway!What Bathroom Paint to Use [00:00 - 12:37]Surfactant Leaching is a common problem in high moisture areas. Surfactants are necessary ingredients in paint and usually they just work their way out over time with no issues. However, when a newly painted wall is exposed to high humidity, surfactants can rise prematurely. They show up on your painted surface looking like orange, brown or even silvery areas that seem soapy or oily in nature. Not pretty . . . but it's not damaging your paint!  HOW TO FIX SURFACTANT LEACHINGStart by wiping them off with a soft sponge and mild soapy water. It may take a few times but it will eventually disappear. Running the bathroom fan or installing a bathroom fan is crucial. Leave it running for about 10-20 minutes after the shower to remove all the moisture. Opening doors to the bathroom can also help. Don't Have a Fan? Get one! And get the right size for your space. Fans are rated by cubic feet per minute (CFM's). This tells you how much air they can move per minute.get a fan that moves 1 CFM per square foot.So, an 80 SF bathroom . . . you'll need a fan with an 80 CFM rating to be effectiveAVOID THE PROBLEM IN THE FIRST PLACE Use the RIGHT Paint. Aura Bath and Spa from Benjamin Moore is an ideal bathroom paint. It is made for high moisture areas and is available in a matte finish! It keeps steam from gathering on the walls and almost always resists surfactant leaching. It’s been a silver bullet! …usually…Hailey had a month of being sick recently and the only relief she could find was running the shower and stemming up the bathroom multiple times a day. Basically turned her bathroom into a sauna (we do not recommend this).  On top of that her bathroom fan is BROKEN. So there was no way to quickly remove the moisture. VERY EXTREME situation. Walls are painted with Aura Bath and spa and for weeks there were no issues. However, every product has its limitations and eventually surfactant leaching did occur. Moral of the story, use the right paint in the right environment! Ventilation is always needed!Historic Ceiling Design [12:37 - 31:30]Ceiling medallions have a long history of creating a sophisticated ceiling design.  Very popular in homes during the Victorian Times. They look like carved plaster disks that are affixed to the center of the ceiling typically were a chandelier is hanging. Now we use them almost exclusively for decorative purposes…But was that always the case? Many Historians have practical theories as to why they existed… THEORY 1: THE "HIDE THE SOOT" THEORYWith candles being used to light homes and and then eventually . . . gas lighting. The constant open flames caused soot to collect on the ceiling above the chandelier. SO, according to proponents of THEORY #1: To hide this unsightly soot. Medallions were installed, however, many people have pointed out that soot will still show on the medallion and now it is harder to clean off. THEORY 2: THE "DISGUISE THE SOOT" THEORYAnother group of people really like the soot...