Home In Progress

In this episode of Home In Progress, hosted by Dan Hansen and sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, the first half is a humorous recount of life lessons learned during a family vacation, from managing close quarters with family to trying on new swimwear before the trip. Dan ties these vacation anecdotes to home improvement tips, emphasizing the importance of testing paint colors, stain matching, and tool comfort before committing to a project. In the second half, Dan dives into the lore of Craftsman homes, detailing their historical roots in the arts and crafts movement, key characteristics, and prominent figures like William Morris and Gustav Stickley. He explains their widespread appeal due to practicality, philosophy of simplicity, and natural beauty, offering insights into both exterior and interior design choices suitable for Craftsman-style homes.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:33 Family Vacation Stories01:50 Lesson 1: The Space Invader06:53 Lesson 2: The Swimsuit Fiasco11:41 Lesson 3: Kids Don't Listen13:50 Effective Communication with Contractors16:35 Introduction to Craftsman Style Homes17:01 Understanding Architectural Styles17:52 Defining Craftsman Homes20:07 Origins of the Craftsman Style24:19 The American Craftsman Movement30:44 Craftsman Homes in Modern Times31:40 Choosing Colors for Craftsman Homes34:07 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of 'Home in Progress', Dan Hansen dives into the importance of deck safety with an annual inspection checklist to prevent collapses, shares insights on dealing with mysterious white powdery substances known as efflorescence on basement walls, and offers expert advice on choosing the perfect paint colors for west-facing rooms which experience dramatic lighting changes throughout the day. Additionally, Dan reflects on the evolving value of trade skills in the face of advancing AI technology. Sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, this episode combines practical home maintenance tips with thoughtful discussions on career choices and the lasting importance of skilled trades.CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to Home in Progress00:50 The Impact of AI on Trades07:10 Deck Safety Essentials18:41 Understanding Efflorescence in Basements19:43 Identifying Efflorescence: The White Fuzz on Your Walls20:49 Understanding the Cause: Moisture Issues21:21 Cleaning Efflorescence: Tools and Techniques21:57 Preventing Recurrence: Addressing Moisture Problems23:02 Painting Over Efflorescence: Do's and Don'ts24:47 Choosing Colors for West Facing Rooms27:52 The Impact of Light on Paint Colors29:43 Tips for Selecting the Right Color38:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen, supported by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, covers practical fixes for common DIY home project frustrations. The episode dives into paint flashing, its causes, and how to avoid it, as well as a guide on fixing squeaky floors and achieving flawless results using masking tape. Hansen also shares a personal anecdote about his phone seemingly reading his mind, serving as a humorous interlude. The episode wraps up with tips on selecting colors for west-facing spaces and solving various DIY problems efficiently.RESOURCESSqueeek No More WebsiteRepair a Squeaky Floor in Minutes with Squeeek No More (Video)Fix Squeaky Floor with 2x4 Method (Video)CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to Home in Progress00:51 Is Your Phone Reading Your Mind?10:49 Masking Tape Mastery19:38 Fixing Squeaky Floors21:21 Navigating Squeaky Floors: A Personal Anecdote22:43 Understanding the Cause of Floor Squeaks25:07 Fixing Squeaky Floors from Below28:42 Fixing Squeaky Floors from Above32:16 Alternative Solutions for Squeaky Floors34:46 Conclusion and Listener Engagement35:39 Understanding Paint Flashing41:52 Preventing and Fixing Paint Flashing43:51 Final Thoughts and Giveaway Reminder

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen covers a variety of home improvement topics. He shares a humorous personal story about a sprinkler mishap and discusses the longevity and performance of EGO battery-powered lawn equipment with guest Kevin Herman from Benjamin Moore. Later, they dive into the benefits of SCUFF-X, a high-performance paint ideal for high-traffic areas in facilities like schools, hotels, and senior living centers. Finally, Dan offers advice on choosing the right paint colors for east-facing rooms, taking into account the shifting natural light throughout the day.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:55 Sprinkler Head Fiasco: A Hilarious Home Improvement Story05:58 Ego Battery Powered Lawn Equipment Review14:57 SCUFF X: The Ultimate Solution for High-Traffic Areas18:34 Unique Qualities of SCUFF X19:37 Application and Feedback20:35 Demonstrations and Real-World Use23:50 Finishes and Durability27:56 Choosing Colors for East Facing Rooms36:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Home In Progress,' sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen embarks on a two-part journey through car buying and interior design. In the first half, Dan welcomes Chris Hardesty, senior advice editor for Cox Automotive, to demystify the stressful and complex process of purchasing a car. They discuss common mistakes people make, the importance of setting a budget, the benefits and drawbacks of leasing versus buying, and practical advice on financing and warranties. In the second half, Dan dives into the legacy of legendary interior designer Sister Parish. He explores how her unique philosophy shaped American interior design and offers practical tips for adding character and comfort to any home. Whether you're in the market for a new car or looking to refresh your living space, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice.RESOURCESHow to Buy a New Car in 10 StepsCHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to Home In Progress00:29 Diving into Car Buying Experiences01:08 Expert Insights with Chris Hardisty03:12 Common Car Buying Mistakes05:21 Financing and Budgeting Tips13:54 Test Driving and Evaluating Cars26:17 Leasing vs. Buying: Making the Right Choice34:57 Trade-In vs. Selling Your Car39:30 The Importance of Maintenance Records44:04 Extended Warranties: Are They Worth It?47:03 Sister Parrish: A Design Legend58:32 Practical Design Tips from Sister Parrish01:06:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen covers various home improvement topics ranging from pest control to painting projects. The show starts with an in-depth discussion on bedbugs, detailing how they spread, methods to detect them, and steps to eliminate them from your home.Dan then transitions to exterior home improvement, focusing on painting shutters. He provides comprehensive guidance on how to paint different types of shutters, including vinyl, wood, composite, and aluminum, ensuring durable and attractive results. The episode also delves into choosing paint colors for south-facing rooms, offering valuable tips on selecting colors that withstand intense natural light while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Lastly, Dan discusses the problem of paint blocking and provides practical advice to prevent it in future projects. Listeners are encouraged to enter a contest for a chance to win a $100 Repco Light gift certificate to aid in their home improvement endeavors.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN PODCAST:South Facing Room ColorsBest Paint Colors for South Facing Rooms (Article)Benjamin Moore Colors Mentioned in episode: Quiet Moments 1513; Spanish Olive 1509; Knoxville Gray HC-160; Hale Navy HC-154; White Diamond 2120-60; Decorator's White CC-20; Chantilly Lace OC-65Gary Busey "Buttered Sausage" (Video)Paint BlockingRemoving Weather Stripping from Door (Video)CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:47 Bedbugs: How They Spread and How to Avoid Them06:29 Identifying and Dealing with Bedbug Infestations11:26 Choosing Paint Colors for South-Facing Rooms21:21 Tips for Sampling Paint Colors and Final Thoughts25:26 Choosing the Right Colors for Your Room26:06 Introduction to Paint Blocking26:24 Understanding Paint Blocking and Its Causes29:25 Preventing Paint Blocking: Tips and Tricks33:04 Improving Your Home's Curb Appeal for Free35:08 Painting Shutters: Materials and Methods36:16 Vinyl Shutters: Can They Be Painted?43:51 Painting Wood and Composite Shutters46:02 Painting Aluminum Shutters49:22 Conclusion and Giveaway Announcement

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen explores the scientific underpinnings of color psychology and how different colors affect our mood and mental health. Dan delves into why blue is calming, red is energizing, and yellow can be overstimulating.The show also covers practical advice on what never to leave in a hot car, from pets to medications and electronics. To wrap up, Dan discusses the significant impact of one's environment on mental well-being, including an interesting study from Philadelphia showing how simple environmental changes like mowing grass can reduce crime rates.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Overview00:17 The Science of Color Psychology00:36 The Power of Environment on Mental Health01:04 A Silly Personal Anecdote06:38 Things You Should Never Leave in a Hot Car19:05 The Impact of Green Spaces on Urban Safety21:33 Impact of Environmental Changes on Crime and Well-being22:09 Personalizing Your Space for Mental Health23:42 The Science Behind Clutter and Stress25:28 Small Changes, Big Impact25:55 Environmental Regulation and Emotional Ecosystems27:04 Practical Tips for Improving Your Home Environment32:23 The Psychology of Color34:34 Understanding the Effects of Different Colors40:54 Choosing the Right Colors for Your Home42:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress by RepcoLite, host Dan Hansen, dives into intriguing 4th of July-themed topics. First, Hansen debunks common misconceptions about colonial-era homes, revealing that many interiors were more vibrant and colorful than typically imagined. He discusses how preservation experts have used advanced techniques to uncover the bold hues used in historical American homes, including details about the Williamsburg palette created by Benjamin Moore. Then, Hansen provides a comprehensive look at the life of Paul Revere, highlighting his diverse roles as a silversmith, dentist, engraver, and copper manufacturer. Revere's story also includes his famous midnight ride, his contributions to the American Revolution, and his lasting impact on American industry. Hansen ties these historical anecdotes to a broader theme encouraging the 'maker's mindset,' urging listeners to approach their home improvement projects with curiosity and a willingness to learn.RESOURCESThomas Jefferson, Interior Designer (Previous segment on Monticello)CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to Home In Progress01:59 Colonial Colors: A Vibrant History10:49 Paul Revere: The Man Behind the Legend21:34 The Sons of Liberty and the Punch Bowl23:10 Paul Revere: The Revolutionary Silversmith24:05 Paul Revere's Unexpected Dental Career26:56 The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere29:02 Paul Revere's Role in Wartime Manufacturing31:15 The Penobscot Expedition: A Military Catastrophe33:32 Paul Revere's Industrial Legacy36:09 The Maker's Mentality: Lessons from Paul Revere39:22 Conclusion and 4th of July Wishes

In this rebranded episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen introduces the show's new name and reaffirms its commitment to tackling home improvement projects, emphasizing that home ownership is a continuous journey. This week, Dan discusses getting started with backyard smokers, detailing different types of smokers and essential tools for beginners. He also covers the best paint colors for north-facing rooms, offers tips for exterior painting in extreme heat, and makes a compelling case for hanging clothes out to dry. Sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, this episode is packed with practical advice and insightful tips for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces one project at a time.COLORS for NORTH FACING ROOMSSOFT WHITESCotton Balls OC-122White Chocolate OC-127Timid White OC-39NEUTRALSElephant Tusk OC-8Wheeling Neutral HC-92Tapestry Beige OC-32Lenox Tan HC-44MORE DEPTHDeeper blues or greens—but always those with yellow undertones.Think deep teal or moss green, not cool navy or leaf-light sage.ADD A LITTLE SUNSHINEPeachy-pinks, creamy yellows, or warm apricot tonesWeston Flax HC-5Head over Heels AF‑250Satchel AF‑240 CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to Home in Progress00:39 Diving into Backyard Smokers03:23 Types of Smokers Explained05:08 Essential Tools for Smoking Meat07:59 Beginner-Friendly Foods to Smoke13:24 The Importance of Resting Meat16:21 Choosing the Right Paint Colors for North-Facing Rooms21:21 Tips for Painting in Extreme Heat29:25 Using Infrared Thermometers for Surface Temperature30:06 Staying Safe and Comfortable While Painting in the Heat31:39 Choosing the Right Paint for Extreme Weather35:27 The Benefits of Line Drying Your Clothes43:42 Overcoming Common Objections to Line Drying50:28 Essential Gear and Tips for Line Drying54:33 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

This episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, guides listeners through the process of selecting exterior paint colors with confidence. Topics covered include the importance of considering existing materials and landscaping, the impact of lighting on color appearance, and the influence of architectural style on color decisions. Dan also discusses how to use color samples effectively, the Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio app, and the benefits of using high-quality paints such as Benjamin Moore and RepcoLite. Listeners are encouraged to take their time, seek limited but trusted opinions, and use available resources to make informed decisions about their exterior home colors.00:00 Sweet corn!05:07 Choosing Exterior Paint Colors with Confidence09:38 Ground Rules for Picking Exterior Colors13:04 Considering Existing Materials and Constraints18:41 Introduction to Exterior Color Selection19:37 Architectural Styles and Color Schemes21:12 Colonial, Victorian, and Craftsman Homes23:30 Ranch Homes and Mid-Century Colors25:30 Working with Brick Exteriors29:35 How Many Colors to Use?32:49 Shutters, Doors, and Final Thoughts37:03 Choosing the Right Paint

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, Dan Hansen shares his recent adventure at Six Flags Great America and insights on how his diminished senses make him a 'superhero.' The episode then delves into practical home improvement topics, including a detailed comparison of bagged vs. bagless vacuums, the benefits of RepcoLite's new waterborne Deck and Dock stain, and useful advice on choosing the perfect front door color. Listeners get recommendations on tools and products, insights on color psychology, and tips on keeping their homes aesthetically pleasing and up-to-date.00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote03:59 Show Overview and Upcoming Segments05:13 Bagged vs. Bagless Vacuums: A Detailed Comparison10:56 Favorite Things: Power Pump Plunger and Freshly Painted Ceiling19:12 Repco Light's New Deck and Dock Waterborne Stain20:31 Choosing the Right Deck Stain21:54 The Benefits of Waterborne Deck Stain22:47 Easy Cleanup and Quick Drying25:33 Application Tips for Deck Stain31:17 Selecting the Perfect Front Door Color32:26 Popular Front Door Colors and Trends37:38 Practical Tips for Painting Your Front Door38:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, host Dan Hansen dedicates the entire episode to deck projects. Dan discusses how such projects can feel overwhelming due to the numerous steps involved and the plethora of products on the market. He shares personal anecdotes, such as refurbishing his own deck, and outlines essential preliminary steps including inspecting the deck's structural integrity and cleaning it before applying stain. Dan also compares different types of stains—translucent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid—highlighting their unique benefits and best-use scenarios. Additionally, he distinguishes between the processes and advantages of using oil-based versus water-based stains. The episode includes insights on using tools like the Wooster Bravo stain brush and renting an on-floor machine. Lastly, listeners are informed about the ongoing sale on deck staining products available at Repco Light until June 16.00:00 Introduction and Overview01:18 Common Deck Problems and Solutions03:30 Personal Deck Project Experience04:02 Important Considerations Before Starting08:51 Cleaning Your Deck: Why and How11:01 Chemical Cleaning Methods16:21 Using the On-Floor Machine18:51 Applying the Stain19:01 Introduction to Deck Staining19:41 Applying the Stain: Methods and Tools23:18 Important Tips for Stain Application24:36 Drying and Final Steps26:05 Choosing the Right Deck Stain28:56 Understanding Deck Stain Types36:36 Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Stains38:36 Conclusion and Final Advice

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen discusses the significance of skilled trades with Drew Anderson from Harmel Academy of the Trades. They delve into the reasons behind Drew's passion for the trades, the current shortage of skilled workers, and the misconceptions that trade jobs are less valuable than a college education. The conversation covers the personal and societal importance of working with one's hands, the value of failing and learning, and the deeper spiritual meaning associated with trades. Drew also highlights the unique approach of Hormel Academy in forming young men into skilled tradesmen and the exciting future prospects for the industry. If you're considering a career in trades or want to understand their broader impact, this episode offers valuable insights.LINKS: Harmel Academy00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:03 The Importance of Skilled Trades00:47 Personal Connection to Trades01:25 The Crisis in Trades and Character03:06 The Shortage in Skilled Trades04:22 Changing Perceptions of Trades09:56 The Dignity of Work20:11 Encouraging Young People to Explore Trades23:05 A Surprising Survey on Basic Skills24:38 Learning Through DIY Repairs25:58 The Importance of Teaching Kids Practical Skills27:16 Parenting Challenges and Letting Kids Help28:16 The Value of Work and Household Chores28:57 Introducing Harel Academy29:08 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity35:22 Connecting with Others to Learn Trades39:28 The Future of Trades and Manufacturing42:22 Exciting Developments at Harel Academy

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan explores the common dilemma of choosing the wrong paint color for a room. Key tips include sampling paint, trusting your gut feeling, and understanding the impact of lighting and surroundings on color perception. If you do end up with a color you dislike, he provides six essential questions to consider before making any hasty decisions. The episode concludes with advice on potentially tweaking the current color and repurposing the paint for other areas, emphasizing patience and a positive mindset through the repainting process.00:00 Introduction and Morning Greetings00:23 Bathroom Books: A Library Story04:35 The Dilemma of Choosing the Right Paint Color06:08 Tips for Avoiding the Wrong Paint Color10:34 Trusting Your Gut on Paint Colors12:07 Dealing with the Wrong Paint Color14:36 Questions to Ask Before Repainting17:37 The Impact of Lighting on Paint Colors19:17 Adjusting to Change in Paint Colors20:35 Understanding the Fear of Change21:53 Overcoming the Fear of Change23:22 Is It the Wrong Color or the Wrong Room?27:23 Reevaluating Your Vision33:27 What to Do When You've Chosen the Wrong Color37:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan shares personal anecdotes about challenging first impressions and provides expert advice on painting your front door to enhance curb appeal. He covers essential tips for choosing the right day, gathering supplies, and applying paint. Additionally, Dan features an interview with Barbara Klein, a decorative painter and former respiratory therapist, who discusses her transition into the world of faux finishes, furniture refinishing, and the influence of her father's carpentry skills on her work.00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes00:17 The Importance of First Impressions05:28 Making a Great First Impression with Your Home07:24 Choosing the Right Day for Painting09:10 Gathering Supplies for the Project12:41 Prepping and Painting the Door16:01 Pro Tips for a Perfect Finish18:44 Interview with Barbara Klein20:12 Transition from Respiratory Therapy to Decorative Painting21:13 Joining the International Decorative Artisans League22:08 Techniques and Tools in Faux Finishing24:14 Challenges in the Medical Field26:28 The Joy of Transforming Homes with Paint28:30 Ceiling and Large-Scale Projects33:02 Furniture Transformation and Foil Techniques35:23 Legacy of Carpentry and Personal Reflections38:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts