True Tales From Old Houses

In this week's episode, Stacy shares a mid-season update, tying up a few loose ends, and sharing what's coming up at Blake Hill House, including this summer's window restoration workshops. She also walks through her outdoor spring to-do list, highlighting the seasonal tasks that come with caring for an old house this time of year. Then, Stacy introduces a new Q&A format, Good, Better, Best, and uses it to work through common old-house challenges. From musty odors and dampness to uneven floors, she breaks down practical options and explains how to approach each one. The episode ends with a few thoughts about renaming the Minisode. Mentioned in this Episode: Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House The Sprung Dance Floor (book) by Steve Jordan Rubio Monocoat soap (one bottle lasts forever) Dr. Bronner's pure castile soap Krud Kutter cleaner/degreaser Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books). 

In this episode, Stacy explores the deal-breakers that shape how people approach buying an old house and how those decisions shift depending on life stage. She also chats with Michelle Bowers of Old House Life, who has watched that play out in real time. In preparation for this episode, Stacy asked her Instagram and Facebook audience to share their own deal-breakers. The responses covered everything from structural concerns and layout challenges to location, cost, and long-term livability. She shares their responses and explores what stops people in their tracks. Then, Stacy welcomes Michelle Bowers of Old House Life, who has a front row seat to old house listings across the country. What began as a hobby has grown into a massive Facebook following and something more personal. Michelle found herself unable to pass on certain properties, sometimes at remarkably low prices, gradually building a collection of historic homes of her own. Her perspective offers a unique look at how deal-breakers play out in real time, both for the people browsing listings and as someone who has stepped in and said yes more than once. Mentioned in this Episode Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House Join Stacy on Substack Follow Old House life on Facebook Follow Ramsey Restoration, Inc on Facebook Old House Life website Alfred Altman Cottage - Video Tour WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. (Featured on ep. 164) Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order. Intro and Outro music by AudionautiX

In this minisode, Stacy and guest co-host Steve Jordan follow a road-trip-inspired rabbit hole that starts with the Grange and leads to dancing—and the ingenious floors, dating back to the 18th century, that made it possible. They talk about how rural communities actually spent time together, Grange halls, gatherings, and yes, dancing, which leads straight into Steve's niche obsession: sprung dance floors. Steve literally wrote the book on them, and they were once fairly commonplace in grand ballrooms, taverns, dance halls, and other community spaces. Long before modern metalworking and the kind of springs we think of today, builders came up with surprisingly clever ways to give a floor enough flex to carry a full night of dancing. Then, Stacy and Steve spend a few minutes chatting about the State of Restoration project. Steve has more than 30 years in historic preservation, and he shares what he's seeing, especially in Rochester, New York. The interest in saving old buildings is strong, but the number of skilled tradespeople who can actually do the work is another story. Steve is one of those people who has a deep well of knowledge and isn't afraid to use it. Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books). 

In this episode, Stacy looks at why some of the most iconic Gilded Age mansions in Newport were nearly lost, and how that story connects to what's happening right now with lead safety laws and historic windows in Rhode Island. If you think that is just a local issue, think again. Stacy takes listeners to Newport, Rhode Island, where some of the most over-the-top Gilded Age mansions in the country were almost lost when the world around them changed. For a time, there was no clear path forward, and the way people responded made a different outcome possible. That story sets the stage for what's happening today. Stacy welcomes Rob Cagnetta of Heritage Restoration and Sutherland Welles. They dig into what's happening right now with lead safety laws in Rhode Island, including what's changed, why there was so much confusion, and what it actually means for anyone who owns or manages a building with historic windows. From there, they get into the real challenges these regulations created and what it took to move forward. Rob shares how he got involved with the City of Newport and the Newport Restoration Foundation to solve the problem of getting historic windows to pass lead-safety inspections, despite little to no support from state inspectors or the health department. In the process, what started as a window issue revealed lesser-known sources of lead contamination throughout the home and challenged the assumption that the problem starts and ends inside the house. If this sounds like a Rhode Island issue, it's not. What's happening there could become a model for how other states create and enforce lead safety laws.  Lead-safe Historic Window Resources (download) Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House Join Stacy on Substack WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. (Featured on ep. 164) Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order. Intro and Outro music by AudionautiX

In this episode, Stacy brings in Scott Sidler as a guest co-host for some old house shop talk. They discuss the realities of preservation funding and infrared paint removers. Stacy begins with updates from the new State of Restoration project, sharing observations from Toledo and New Orleans, while Scott reports on what he's seeing in Florida. The outlook for preservation funding is bleak, with zero state funding currently allocated for historic preservation projects. From there, the conversation turns to tools. Stacy and Scott break down how infrared paint removers work and walk through the pros and cons of different options to help homeowners choose the right one for their projects. Finally, they wrap up by brainstorming new names for the minisodes, and Scott comes up with a couple that might actually stick. Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop at Blake Hill House Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books). 

Wait...that's historic? Stacy digs into the 50-year rule, talks mid-century restoration with Sarah from 1957 House Down South, and visits the Kohler museum to see those famous vintage bathroom colors in person. Wait. That's historic? At some point, the math catches up with us. In this episode, Stacy takes a look at the preservation benchmark often called the 50-year rule and what happens when houses and buildings many of us still think of as "modern" cross the threshold used to evaluate historic significance. Then, Sarah joins the show to talk about her mid-century modern home, which she calls 1957 House Down South. She shares how she found the house, its architectural history, and her meticulous process of restoring all the original features. Mid-century modern homes can be a tough sell. Some people think they're too modern to be historic, while others see them as hopelessly dated, but Sarah's love for MCM may shift that perspective. Finally, Stacy talks about her visit to the Kohler campus to explore the company's design museum and see some of Kohler's vintage bathroom fixtures in person, including the bold colors that once defined American bathrooms. If old house lovers have anything to say about it, those colors aren't going anywhere. Join Stacy on Substack. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. (Featured on ep. 164) Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order.  

Winter hits the roof again, and there's still no magic fix. In this episode, Stacy unpacks ice dams, insulation trade-offs, a significant DIY mistake, and what this season clarified about planning for the long term. Plus: a State of Restoration update and the ongoing minisode renaming discussion. In Episode 177, Stacy takes a practical look at ice dams, attic insulation, snow load risk, roof ventilation in old houses, and the real-world trade-offs of improving energy efficiency without creating new problems. After losing brand-new gutters and heat cables to ice dams, the conversation shifts from reaction to long-term planning. What failed? What worked? Should attic insulation be the next step? How do snow load and flat roof sections complicate that decision? And what's the right way to reinforce gutters so they can handle freeze-thaw cycles and expanding ice? This episode walks through what causes ice dams, the limits of roof raking and heat cables, and why adding insulation and ventilation to a 140-year-old house isn't simple at all. Also in this episode: • A State of Restoration update from the historic preservation community • Two listener snapshots from the same city, and why preservation can look different even within one place • How to participate in the one-minute preservation pulse check • And the ongoing minisode renaming discussion If you own an old house in a cold climate and have ever dealt with ice dams, attic insulation, or gutters, this one's for you. Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books).       

Just after Stacy announces she is keeping Blake Hill House, winter responds in a very expensive way. She shares the latest twist in her restoration journey before welcoming Jessica Rhodes to discuss restoring an Italianate home in the public eye. They also talk about making decisions that serve real life, not just an audience. The episode concludes with the launch of a new listener feature exploring the state of preservation across the country. First, Stacy reflects on the reality that Mother Nature always wins and old houses respond on their own terms. A recent challenge at Blake Hill House opens the episode. Then, Jessica Rhodes joins Stacy to talk about restoring Danascara Place, her historic Italianate home in upstate New York. She shares the realities of renovating in public, how online attention shapes decision-making, the financial tightrope of owning an old house, and why community support matters more than we think. Finally, Stacy reports on the magical week in Pine Mountain, Kentucky, that sparked a new podcast feature built around your voices. She asked one simple question: What is the state of restoration where you live? You'll hear a couple of the one-minute recordings collected so far. It is the beginning of a snapshot of preservation across the country. Join Stacy on Substack. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. (Featured on ep. 164) Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order.

For years, you've followed Blake Hill House. In this episode, Stacy shares what's really been happening behind the scenes and how 2025 changed everything. It was a year of pressure, progress, second-guessing, and more than a few moments that nearly broke her. If you've been waiting for an update on Blake Hill House, this is the one. Join Stacy on Substack Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. The Old House Shop – The Old House Shop is the store for people who accidentally turn every conversation into a discussion about windows, plaster, or old-growth lumber. Find preservation-minded t-shirts, cozy sweatshirts, mugs, and gifts that celebrate process over perfection. Use code OLDHOUSELIFE for 10% off your order (excluding books).       

In Daniel's final episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel wrap up past conversations, discuss how years of ghost stories have changed them, and share three new paranormal stories from historic homes. Episode 174 marks the end of a chapter for True Tales From Old Houses as co-host Daniel Kanter records his final episode. Stacy and Daniel wrap up loose ends from earlier conversations and reflect on how years of ghost stories have changed the way two self-described agnostics handle the unexplained...just in case.  The episode also features three true ghost stories from historic homes across the U.S. Troy Thomas shares life in his 1897 Pennsylvania house, including a mysterious discovery that ties past and present together. Robert Killion returns to share experiences that challenged his lifelong skepticism, culminating in a deeply personal story of love, loss, and signs he believes came from his late wife. Finally, Tracey Coltrane reflects on restoring a haunted 1900 home and learning how coexistence, curiosity, and respect shaped a new kind of harmony. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order.

After an extended hiatus, Stacy Grinsfelder and Daniel Kanter return to True Tales From Old Houses to kick off Season 13 with personal updates, a major announcement from Daniel, and two ghost stories to celebrate a belated version of spooky season. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS Many thanks to the sponsors who help make this show possible. When you shop at the websites and use the codes below (where available), you're directly supporting their small businesses and the podcast, too! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code TRUETALES26. Brouns & Co. Linseed Oil Paint - Flax plant-derived linseed oil paint and stain. Anti-mold with only trace elements of VOCs. Wicks moisture from wood. Prevents metal from rusting. Brouns & Co. is trusted by preservation professionals and homeowners who value authenticity. Heritage Supply Co. - Heritage Supply Co. (formerly The Craftsman Store) is the same trusted company you know for window restoration supplies and more. Use code TRUETALES10 for 10% off your entire order. Spend $250 or more, and shipping is free. Repaint Studios - The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's airtight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code TRUETALES10 to save 10% off your order.

In this season finale of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel look back on standout moments from Season 12, answer a listener question about bathroom ventilation, and reflect on what's next for the show. Then, Kathryn Holloway joins the conversation to share her inspiring journey restoring a 12,000-square-foot historic home. Known online as To the Shire Born across social media, Kathryn uncovered a stunning tiled floor hidden beneath layers of old material. The unexpected discovery and subsequent restoration is one of her most widely-known projects, and it changed the trajectory of the entire renovation. With a background in graphic design and a passion for hands-on work, she talks about the joys and challenges of managing such a large restoration and the excitement of learning from skilled tradespeople. It's a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to bring a big old house back to life. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - Join the waitlist! (closed 6/20/25) Buy a copy of The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy Efficiency and Old Windows by Scott Sidler and Stacy Grinsfelder Window fan with reversible blades and thermostat (affiliate link)  To the Shire Born - TikTok YouTube Instagram Facebook

In this final minisode of the season (Don't worry; there's still one more full episode on the way!), Stacy returns from Japan with tales of train travel, city-hopping, and family time. Each region had its own personality, and seeing the country through her son's eyes made the trip even more memorable. Meanwhile, Daniel's been deep in renovation mode, helping another friend prepare a nursery. The room's first iteration was a hands-on learning experience, complete with a slightly crooked level and a few design choices that didn't turn out quite as planned. Now it's time to undo, redo, and simplify, and let's just say Daniel's tolerance for anything finicky is… limited. He prefers tools that work straight out of the box, not ones that need calibration and coaxing. He and Stacy also compare notes on gardening—what's working, what's not, and why the weeds always seem one step ahead. Plus, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who tuned in this season. We appreciate your questions, comments, and continued support. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - Join the waitlist Preen weed preventer Scott's Triple Action Turf Builder 80% Vinegar Concentrate (for killing weeds)

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about what to do with an unused chimney. Should it stay or should it go? They weigh the pros and cons, sharing stories from their own restoration projects, and consider how to balance architectural integrity with practical updates, especially when a chimney no longer serves its original purpose. Later, Stacy and Daniel chat with Olivia Wood, the eleventh-generation steward of Poplar Grove, a historic family home with deep roots. Olivia shares how she's embracing the responsibility of preservation while also making the space her own. From uncovering centuries-old documents, including ones related to the site's history with slavery, to navigating family dynamics and building a design team, Olivia's story is one of patience, creativity, and respect for the past. She also opens up about her growing confidence during the whole house renovation and her dream of turning Poplar Grove into a resource for historical education. This episode is a reminder that old houses hold stories, decisions, and opportunities to shape the future by honoring the past. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Enter to win a signed copy of The Case for Historic Windows by Scott Sidler and Stacy Grinsfelder. (The giveaway ends 6/6/25.) Follow the Poplar Grove Project on Instagram. Follow Shannon Claire Interiors on Instagram. Learn more about the Slave Dwelling Project: Instagram | Website Sleeping with the Ancestors by Joseph McGill (book)

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Daniel and Stacy share updates from their latest old house projects, including a listener-favorite topic: linseed oil paint. Then, Stacy tells the story of a stubborn window repair that proves just how humbling glass cutting can be, especially when you have an audience. From cost-effective glass solutions to lessons learned the hard way, it's another lively conversation about the real-life joys and frustrations of restoring old houses. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - Don't miss out! There are only three spots left. National Lustron Map - Find and Research Lustron Homes Enter to win a signed copy of The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy-Efficiency and Old Windows by Scott Sidler and Stacy Grinsfelder

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about original basement windows—save them or start fresh? They weigh the pros and cons of restoration versus replacement, and why there's often wiggle room instead of a clear-cut answer. Then, the tables turn as Daniel puts Stacy, and special guest Scott Sidler, in the hot seat to talk about their new book, The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy Efficiency and Old Windows. While they share a few behind-the-scenes stories from the long-distance co-writing process, the real heart of the conversation lies in the book's core message: keeping old windows isn't just a sentimental choice. It's a smart, sustainable one. Together, they unpack common myths about window performance, dive into the rarely explored (or understood!) concept of embodied carbon, and explain why understanding your actual utility usage matters more than chasing flashy energy claims. Backed by hard data and surprising research findings, the book demonstrates that old windows have the potential to meet or even exceed the energy efficiency of many modern replacements, sometimes without a full restoration. From simple upgrades to complete rehabs, the book offers a range of practical solutions designed to help homeowners and pros make informed, ethical, and budget-conscious decisions that prioritize preservation and performance. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - It's almost sold out!  Napisan Laundry Disinfectant Buy the book: The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy Efficiency and Old Windows Enter to win a signed copy of The Case for Historic Windows by Scott Sidler & Stacy Grinsfelder

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Daniel and Stacy start by revisiting their favorite takeaways from the Lustron House interview, including why metal walls are both brilliant and bonkers, in the very best way. Then, Stacy dives into the beautifully controlled chaos of preparing Blake Hill House for its next chapter. The only thing multiplying faster than boxes is the list of things left to do. Meanwhile, Daniel leans into the satisfying rhythm of repair and maintenance, restoring light fixtures for his resale shop, and chasing the elusive dream of the whitest whites with a new favorite cleaning product. Finally, they reflect on productivity and priorities, and the importance of staying connected when life feels like one big to-do list. This episode is a reminder that progress isn't always linear and tidy, and that's okay. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today. Mentioned in this Episode Napisan Laundry Disinfectant Rub n Buff Metallic Wax Finish

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel tackle a relatable question: What's the deal with tiny closets in old houses, and how can homeowners maximize storage? They offer tips, commiseration, and a few creative workarounds. Then, if you've been waiting for a deep dive into Lustron living, this is the episode. Stacy chats with Laura, proud owner of a Lustron home. These prefabricated, all-metal houses were born out of the post–World War II housing shortage and designed as a modern, low-maintenance solution for families in need of fast, affordable housing. Laura shares what it's really like to live in one of these rare architectural time capsules. From magnetic walls and steel cabinets to the practicalities of maintenance, she has embraced "space age" living with appreciation and delight. Laura's experience offers a firsthand look at why Lustron homes still captivate preservationists, old house lovers, and anyone who appreciates the quirkiest house in their neighborhood. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - Don't miss out! There are only three spots left. Ruby Space Triangles closet space savers Bonus Episode: Post-War Housing Solutions and Levittown Minisode: More About Lustron Homes and an Emotional Land Bank Story National Lustron Map - Find and Research Lustron Homes

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Daniel dives into the deeply satisfying experience of helping friends prepare their home for a new baby. Left unsupervised while his friends were at the hospital, Daniel organized the house with gusto—leaving the new parents a little more surprised than planned. He reflects on what worked, what didn't, and why the whole experience might just turn into a book someday. Then, Stacy talks about gearing up for the big move, including renting a POD, packing up her historic house, and tackling the project mostly on her own. It's a lively conversation about organized chaos, hard deadlines, and the universal truth that babies don't care about your to-do list. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today.

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Michiel Brouns of Brouns & Co. sets the record straight on linseed oil paint. From its surprising shelf life to why "thin to win" is the golden rule, Michiel unpacks everything you thought you knew—and didn't—about this traditional finish. Stacy, Daniel, and Michiel discuss proper application, ongoing maintenance, brushes that won't let you down, as well as how linseed paint stacks up against modern coatings in terms of cost, durability, and environmental impact. True Tales From Old Houses first explored linseed oil paint back in Episode #51, and now Stacy and Daniel are revisiting the topic with fresh insights, guided by listener-generated questions. It's a myth-busting, info-packed episode for anyone serious about preservation, sustainability, or just getting paint to stick. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Learn more about the Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake. Spotify Playlist: Frank Lloyd Wright's Record Collection Episode #51: Desmystifying Linseed Oil Paint with Natalie from Earth + Flax Blog Article: Spontaneous Combustion Safety and DIY  Brouns & Co (North America) website and Instagram Brouns & Co (UK) website and Instagram