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...

On Today's EpisodeHailey's back after a month-long absenceNo ventilation in the kitchen? What about a Ductless Range Hood?Battery Powered LightingChristmas Contest 2024Hailey's Back! [00:00 - 04:03]It's been a month, but Hailey's finally back!Ductless Range Hoods [04:03 - 19:00]Hailey's kitchen doesn't have a range hood. And the location of the windows in the room doesn't make ventilating the space easy. She's looked into having a conventional range hood installed, but the expense of running ductwork is a deal-breaker at this point (she just put a new roof on the house, after all!)Digging into the problem, she ran across Ductless Range Hoods. These hoods look like conventional range hoods, but rather than moving air out of the home, they filter the air using a charcoal filter system.Admittedly, they're not as effective as a conventional range hood, but at $200 - $600, they're also a lot less expensive!If you're in a situation like Hailey is, maybe a Ductless Range Hood is your answer. Here are 4 things to consider before making that purchase:SizeIt should be as wide as your stovetop with a small overhang on either sideMost models come in 24", 30", or 36"If you're installing on an open wall, make sure the chimney will reach your ceiling. If not, you will need to purchase an extension kitSpeedLook for a model with a variable-speed fanLow speeds provide quiet operation for smaller tasksHigh speeds are necessary when you do serious cooking, sauteing, or fryingMaterialMost models come in stainless steel, white, and blackIf you need to match your cabinets exactly, the outside of your hood most likely could be painted. Prep and the right product are key, so stop out at a RepcoLite store and let us help!Convertible Options?There are also conventional range hoods that can be converted into ductless optionsThey require an add-on kit that includes the filter system. Battery-Powered Lighting [19:00 - 33:36]Are you looking to add some lighting to your home but don't want to get into the expense of hiring an electrician? There are battery-powered lighting options out there that could be the perfect solution!These battery-powered lighting options have improved dramatically in the last few years. You can buy light fixtures that look just like their wired counterparts, but use simple, rechargeable puck lights or light bulbs.Many come with remote controls (and who doesn't want MORE remote controls in their home?) and they provide you with a very simple installation and professional finished results.While these lights aren't for every situation, we think they're perfect for:Under Cabinet LightingFor right around $25 you can buy 2 rechargeable, LED strip lights that mount in 3 minutes under your cabinets.Under Cabinet LEDsWall SconcesBattery-powered wall sconces look great and they're easy to install. Check out these examples:<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Aipsun-Operated-Rechargeable-Dimmable-Temperatures/dp/B0C5DBHSD9/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=17D7LB1PS6LMN&amp;keywords=battery%2Bpowered%2Bwall%2Bsconces&amp;qid=1701436779&amp;sprefix=battery%2Bpowered%2Bwall%2Bsconces%2Caps%2C124&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&amp;th=1" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

On Today's EpisodeHailey is still out sick! Hopefully, she'll be back next week. Fortunately, Dan Altena, president of RepcoLite, was able to fill in. Here's what we'll cover in this episode:Using AI for Decorating? 3 Quick Projects for a Realistic Holiday MakeoverHow to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking TapeUsing AI for Decorating? [00:00 - 12:05]We see AI being talked about all the time. It's being used in almost every field. So, what about Interior Design? And even more importantly, what about DIY Interior Design? Can ANYONE open up an AI design platform and get immediate and amazing results? I Tried 12 AI Interior Design Tools (video Dan referenced)3 Quick Projects for a Realistic Holiday Makeover [12:05 - 18:54]It's officially the Holiday Season, and that means you'll probably see companies like RepcoLite talking about how it's time to repaint your spaces for the guests who will be visiting. We know that's unrealistic--after all, we've got lives, too. The Holidays are already busy enough! However, if you are looking for a project--something small that will make a huge impact--we've got three to consider!Check out the Fireplace Makeover EpisodeHow to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking Tape [18:54 - 38:55]We all (probably) know what it feels like to spend time applying masking tape on a project only to remove it and see that paint has still managed to bleed through. Or, we pull the tape off and some of our previous paint (and/or the new paint) comes off with it! It's incredibly frustrating when that happens. But the good news is there are steps you can take to avoid both of those problems and get great results every time.

On Today's EpisodeWe're (kind of) back at it after being out sick for 2 weeks! On today's show, we'll talk about:Where we've been for the last 2 weeks and whyCan You Paint Latex Over Oil?5 Questions You Should Ask Before Every Home Decorating ProjectWhere We've Been . . . and Why! [00:00 - 03:45]We've been out for a couple of weeks and to help me get a new show together for the week, I'm joined by Dan Altena and Ali Bryde. Both are RepcoLite employees. Dan's the president and has been with the company since 1978. Ali came on board about 1 month ago. I'm glad both could join me so we could get a new show together after a 2 week hiatus.Can You Paint Latex over Oil? [03:45 - 19:00]It's a question that comes up periodically. The short answer is "yes," but there are some things to know:The "Is It Oil or Latex Test"Sometimes it's difficult to tell if the paint on a given surface is oil or latex. Fortunately, there's a simple test that will get you the answer every time. All you need to do is dampen a rag with ammonia and wipe the surface you're testing. If the paint softens slightly or if some of the color comes off on the rag, then it's latex paint. If there's no change to the paint, then it's oil.It's Oil . . . But Is it Lead-Based?If you test the surface and determine that your previous coating is oil-based paint, you can still make the transition to latex. But in order to get great results, you need to do the proper surface preparation. And before we talk about that, we need to quickly mention lead-based paints.Prior to 1978, lead was used in the production of paint. If the surface you're painting was painted in 1978 or earlier, there's a chance lead could be present. The closer you are to 1978, the less likely you are to find lead. The earlier the surface was painted, the likelihood increases. If you're unsure the surface is lead, you can secure a test kit. And, finally, if you determine that the paint you're dealing with is lead-based, you'll want to take different steps than what I'm going to lay out below. Check this link for more info!Whew! It's Just Regular Oil-Based Paint . . . Now What?If you are only dealing with regular oil-based paint, here are the steps to successfully making the shift to latex paint:Wash the surface with a good degreaser (Krud Kutter, Challenger, TSP)Scuff sand with a 180-220 grit sandpaperWipe all the sanding dust off with a damp rag (NOT a tackcloth)Prime with a bonding primer (STIX from Insl-X or QuickSand from RepcoLite)Topcoat with your choice of latex paintsFive Questions to Ask Before Starting A Home Decorating Project [19:00 - 39:07]Making over a space in our home can be a lot of fun. But it can also be daunting! There are a lot of decisions to make, work to accomplish, and (usually) money that needs to be spent. We definitely don't want to make mistakes that cost us time and dollars.To help you move through your next project with confidence, here are 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start:Question 1: How do I want this space to make me feel?Yes, this is a touchy-feely question. But it's incredibly important. Answering this question helps you make other decisions down the road. So give it some serious thought. What do you want to feel when you enter or spend time in the space you're going to be working in?Are you looking for a cozy and relaxing vibe for a living room? Are you wanting to feel that "Ahhhhhh, I'm home" feeling when you walk into your entry? Are you hoping to create an energized, exciting atmosphere? Or a space that just makes you feel happy? Think about the space. Think about...

On Today's EpisodeUnable to get a new show together for the weekend, we went back into the archives and found this one from two years ago to the day. It's all about getting your home ready for the upcoming holidays and . . . winter!Make Your Home Sparkle for Thanksgiving [00:00 - 09:35]We've got some basic cleaning tips and tricks as well as some product recommendations so you can get your house looking great for your guests!Getting Your Home Ready for Winter with Ayers [09:36 - 30:59]Zack from Ayer's Basement Systems joins us to talk about what we should do to make sure our basements and crawlspaces are ready for winter.11th Hour Touch-Ups [31:00 - 39:26]As we get closer to the holidays, we all find we've got less and less time to get our homes ready! We already talked about some cleaning tips at the beginning of the show. Now we'll focus on a number of quick touch-up tricks to help you get your trim and walls looking great with as little effort as possible!

On Today's EpisodeWe look at a couple of Benjamin Moore's Color Trends for 2024We also talk about the value and beauty of wallpaper!Finally, we discuss a life-saving device that every home should have!Pristine and Honey Bee: A Closer Look [00:00 - 09:21]Every year Benjamin Moore comes out with the new color of the year along with a Color Trends Palette that consists of 10 supporting colors. While many people are excited to see what is trending, not everyone knows how to utilize these colors. This year we want to distill this information and make it very practical. We will be going through the whole palette in the coming weeks to talk about where to use the colors, why you would use them and how to have success. Last week we talked about White Dove Oc-17 This week we will be talking about Pristine and Honey Bee:Pristine is a soft warm white with blush undertones, neutral enough that it could be used on a large scale or in multiple rooms. Colorful twist on a classic neutral. Great color to use in a south or east facing room where the warm undertones are amplified to create a warm glowing effect, making a room ultra cozy.Use In:Bedroom: to create a cozy and calming environment.Bathroom: make the space feel fresh and sophisticated.Entryway: can make a small or narrow space feel larger and more welcoming.Could work as a trim color with a strong warm color such as Topaz but for most situations this color may not be neutral enough.Use as a main color in your homes color scheme for a warm white that feels fresh rather than dated.Pairs well with whites, soft gray blues and taupes.Honey Bee is a warm and inviting yellow that can add a touch of vibrancy and energy to a space. Great for smaller spaces or an accent color! Yellows in general are pretty polarizing but they can be beautiful when done right. Yellows of this saturation can come off very strong on a large scale so we recommend limiting the application to a small room or accent. If you are looking for a yellow to paint an entire room this could be a great jumping off point, though!Use In:Kids room: Cozy color for a bedroom that offers plenty of whimsy.Laundry Room: Add a cheerful color to a space that otherwise feels drab.Furniture: Add a pop of color, warmth and personality to a space.Trim Color: Perfect color to pair with a whimsical or playful wallpaper that has a complementary or monochromatic or neutral palette.Kitchen cabinets: great color to bring in a quaint, sunny, vintage look.Other yellows to consider if you are sampling:Pale MoonHawthorne YellowWindham CreamWallpapered Walls, Wallpapered Ceilings... [09:21 - 31:24]We are joined today by Ali Bryde, RepcoLite's new Social Media Marketing Associate. Anyway, Ali's a BIG fan of wallpapered spaces and we decided to sit down and talk through the value and beauty of Wallpaper.West Side RepcoLite Stores Who Have Wallpaper Book Libraries17th StreetLakewood Blvd<a...

On Today's EpisodeDo you remember colored toilet paper?? We discuss the strange history of colorful and patterned toilet paper and debate whether we will see a resurgence as colorful bathrooms are coming back in style! We've also got your next fall list to get you prepped for the shorter days that are upon us. Plus, a quick project that will make your winter less stressful. Finally we will be talking about the only white paint color you will ever need! Toilet Paper [00:00 - 08:54]We have discussed the colorful and polarizing history of bathrooms before but we left out the cherry on top! In the 1950's bathrooms were very focused on color as sinks, toilets and tubs became available in wide range of pastels. However, those fixtures were just the start. Not only would a bathroom of had a pink set of fixtures they would have had matching tile, floors, wallpaper, rugs and the cherry on top toilet paper! That's right! Colorful toilet paper was a staple of bathroom design until the 1980's because who could endure the eyesore of a white roll within a perfectly curated room?So where did these colorful rolls go? Why did they go? There are a few theories:The dyes in the toilet paper were an environmental concern . The dyes in the toilet paper were irritating peoples skin and Dr. starting advising people use white toilet paper. Colorful bathrooms were on the way out and toilet paper went out along side them. With colorful bathroom fixtures becoming available again and recent paint color trends becoming more colorful...could we see a resurgence of colorful toilet paper? Hailey recently found pink rolls available at IKEA and is making a prediction we will start seeing more!Dan is all in and ready to find out if we will also see a resurgence of unsightly rashes...The List [08:55 - 18:58]Light up your Yard and walkwaysDaylight hours are shrinking and it's always helpful to be able to see where you are going in the morning and evening hours! Especially when you are lugging a million kid bags along with you. This is also a great security measure! Most home invasions happen during the fall and winter months because its darker. &nbsp;Don't give them the cover of darkness. Here is a list to get you started:Check all your outdoor lights&nbsp;and make sure they are workingReplace bulbs as necessaryIf you don't have motion sensing lights, consider installing them&nbsp;Pathway lights are also extremely helpful but don't cheap out! Hailey advises against the affordable packs of plastic pathway lights found on amazon. ** Dan Warning** If you decide to get motion sensing lights remember that these will be set off by EVERYTHING. Dan had to turn his off because he was constantly on guard... so this is a reminder to know yourself... if they will make you MORE anxious, skip them. Check this link if you are considering security lights!&nbsp;https://staysafe.org/outdoor-security-lights-a-guide-to-increase-the-safety-of-your-home/If you are looking for pathway lights that won't immediately break, Bob Villa recommends the Beau Jardin 8 Pack. Stainless Steel construction, Stays bright for up to 12 hours and an eight Pack is just $60. Bob's Picks:&nbsp;https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-solar-path-lights/Smart garage door openers?Dan's parents picked up a Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Control System last year and they still love it! This system allows you to open, close and monitor the door with your phone. Its easy to set up and only costs $20....

On Today's EpisodeWe are joined by Sue Prins and Ginger Herman of Sue Prins Group Five Star Real Realestate Leaders to bring you a complete home buying guide! Perfect for the first time home buyer. Benjamin Moore has revealed 2024's color of the year! Did we guess right? We will be discussing the color of the year along with the color trends 2024 palette. A Guide for First Time Home Buyers [00:00 - 31:47]1. Talk to a realtor!Sue and Ginger discuss the current market and why it is crucial to have an expert by your side. It may be counter intuitive but it's actually recommended you talk to realtor before You start talking to lenders or getting pre approved. Realtor's can discuss your dreams, goals and help you come up with a game plan to navigate the current market. Once you have a clear plan your realtor can actually help match you with the RIGHT lender. Lenders offer different types of loan structures and financing options so it is important to find the right one for your situation. Your realtor can also help uncover hidden closing costs and help you shop rates with ALL the information! Working with a realtor will also means that you have access to a Multiple Listing Site and custom home search! You will be notified in real time rather than waiting for third party sites like Zillow, which, can be hours or even days behind! 2. Talk to a lenderNow it's time to find the right lender. It is important to find lender based on your goals, financial portfolio and budget. Shopping rates can be a good idea, just remember some interest rates come at a cost! Make sure you know what they will charge you at closing. Most people are surprised to find out you don't need 20% down. You can put 10% down, 5% or even NO PRECENT. Find the right loan program for your situation and get pre approved. Be prepared, loan officers will ask for a lot of personal and financial information. Don't let this intimidate you!Once you are pre approved it is very important not to make any big financial changes or big purchases! This could hurt your chances of getting approved after offering on a house. Do you have family helping you with the down payment? Make sure you talk to your lender before depositing any large checks! These will need to be documented in a specific way. 3. Let's see houses!If you haven't already, now is the time to set up a home search with your realtor. Seeing homes with an experienced realtor by your side is crucial! Sue Prins and Ginger Herman offer a wealth of knowledge when it comes to spotting potential problems or costly home repairs. Remember, realtors have walked through thousands of homes, lean on their experience and expertise so you make a good investment!Once you have found a home you will meet with your relator to go over an offer. There is an art to writing offers. Sue Prins and Ginger Herman are always adapting to the market in order to write the most competitive offer possible. It is always recommended to have your future home inspected but buyers have been waiving these in order to make their offer competitive. In this case Ginger and Sue recommend getting a pre inspection. This means paying for an inspection BEFORE writing an offer. 4. I'm in escrow!!Hurray your offer was accepted! First on the agenda is inspections (if they have not been waived). Next an appraiser will visit the home to make sure the property is worth the money you are offering. Closing on your house can be as fast as 30 days, although sometimes you will need to give a seller time in their home after closing. Closing on a house can be chaotic, there is a lot of paperwork during this transactions and...

On Today's EpisodeWe follow up on our garage paint conversation from last week to discuss the right interior product for the job. Holland's Fire Marshall, Bret Groendyke joins us in the studio to share the results of our “not so scientific” fire extinguisher test!Service Professor’s HVAC experts stop by and share everything you need to know to extend the life of your furnace. Finally, we share this week’s “Fall To-Do List”! Complete this list to keep your home SAFE and warm this fall.&nbsp;The Best Garage Paint [00:00 - 03:55]Last week, we discussed why you should never use an exterior product inside your garage. This week, we discuss WHICH interior products are best for the job.&nbsp;First you need to assess your specific situation to decide which product best suits your needs.&nbsp;Do the walls in your garage act as tool storage? Do you have bikes leaning up against the wall? If so, you may be looking for a product that is durable, scuff-resistant and will look brand new for years to come. In this case, Benjamin Moore’s “Scuff-X” is the paint for you!&nbsp;Does your garage get less use? Are you looking for a budget friendly option? If so, you may be looking for a solid entry level product to get the walls coated without breaking the bank. In this case, RepcoLite’s “Carefree” is the paint for you!&nbsp;Stop in and see us or place your order online.The Fire Blanket [03:55 - 19:00]We are joined by Holland’s Fire Marshal; Bret Groendyke, to discuss the results of our “not so scientific” fire extinguisher experiment.&nbsp;To run the test, we set up a common scenario: a pot with a small amount of oil is left on a hot burner of an electric stove. Within minutes the oil reaches 500 degrees and ignites. The pot now has a grease fire that many homeowners would struggle to put out.&nbsp;First we used a standard ABC Fire extinguisher to put the fire out. This method put the fire out quickly but also left a huge mess! It's not uncommon for a stove to have to be replaced after a fire extinguisher has been used on it.&nbsp;Next we threw a Prepared Hero Fire Blanket over the pot. This method worked exactly as advertised. It was easy to use, smothered the fire and left no mess!&nbsp;Last we saw what happens all too often; a glass of water was poured onto the grease fire (from a safe distance). This method resulted in a HUGE column of fire that would have engulfed a kitchen. When people panic, they often grab the pot and put it in the sink to try to extinguish the fire. However, water vapor only feeds this type of fire and this method can result in serious injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;We all agreed our new favorite fire extinguisher method is the Prepared Hero Fire Blanket!&nbsp;Check out our video hereFurnace Tune-Ups [19:00 - 32:22]<a href="https://www.serviceprofessor.com/?utm_campaign=BC%20-%20Branded&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_content=Branded&amp;utm_term=service%20professor&amp;se_campaign=BC%20-%20Branded&amp;gad=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw4P6oBhBsEiwAKYVkq0WnCipV9lg5Cz737NZCKc-YFeQu7tGBQ1_DmFID-HUr7458ngDG4hoC7TQQAvD_BwE"

On Today's EpisodeGarage Paint Conundrum [00:00 - 04:02]When painting the inside of the garage, what do you use? Interior paint or exterior paint? The answer may surprise you!A Toy Story: Decluttering and Reclaiming the Play Room [04:02 - 18:58]When you have children . . . the toy room can become crowded and then overcrowded in a crazy short amount of time! We've found a great article written by Elle Penner that you should check out!How To Declutter Toys50+ Best Experience Gifts for ChildrenThe Big Fall List, Part 2 [18:59 - 29:17]Fall is settling in and it's important to start getting your home ready! Don't put off the projects! Here are our recommended projects that should be accomplished this week:Clean and Organize the Shed and/or GarageTake stock of your rakes and shovels--get more now if you need them!Check the leaf blower and make sure it's workingCheck the snowblower and make sure it's working. If not, you've still got time to fix it or get it fixed!Our Color of the Year Predictions [29:17 - 39:26]On October 11, Benjamin Moore will reveal their prediction for the 2024 Color of the Year. We beat them to it with our predictions . . . .

On Today's Episode4 Steps for Working Through an Overwhelming To-Do List [00:00 - 10:54]When we sit down and note everything we have to do for a given project or even a given day, it can sometimes be so overwhelming that we don't know where to start. Or, worse, we don't start! We felt that stress starting to build when we compiled our list of Fall To-do's to make sure our homes are ready for winter. And here's how we took that massive list of jobs and made it manageable!1) MAKE MULTIPLE LISTSRather than creating one massive list, break your list into smaller daily, or weekly to-do's. Making a list small and manageable is key to finding the energy to get those items crossed off!2) DON'T SAVE IT ALL FOR THE WEEKENDIt's easy to make a project list and plan on tackling that list on the weekend. It's honestly the default plan for many of us. But, if you want to ease up your weekend and eliminate the "project dread" we can feel as Saturday gets closer . . . tackle smaller items from your list during the week! Who knows how much you can cross off before Saturday gets here . . . and if you get a good amount of the work finished, you may have plenty of time for actual weekend stuff--like kicking back and relaxing!3) BREAK BIG PROJECTS INTO MULTIPLE TASKSThis is the same concept as what we covered above in Tip #1--it's just that now you're doing this with each large project. So, instead of writing "Clean Windows" on your list for the weekend, write down: Compile Window Cleaning Supplies; Remove Screens; Clean Front Windows; Clean Back Windows. Yes, it's a bit of a mind-game you're playing with yourself . . . but it really works. AND, it makes Tip #2 above easier. For example, you may not have time and energy to clean all the windows after a work day . . . but you absolutely could gather the supplies you need and place them all in a bucket or box in the garage. Sure it was only 15 minutes of gathering . . . but it's 15 minutes you won't have to do on Saturday.4) SET A TIMER AND QUIT AT THE BELL!If all that sounds good, but you're still having trouble getting yourself moving during the week, try this: set a 10 minute or 15 minute timer and tackle some of those small items on your list. Work as fast as you can at some of those tasks and quit when the timer goes off. It's a great way to get large jobs accomplished in chunks that feel painless. I stumbled on this when I stared at my work bench that was a complete disaster. I'd been lazy and negligent and now I had to pay the piper. I was looking at easily a few hours worth of work (it seemed at that point). I didn't want to do that much work, so I put it off until one night I had a brainstorm. I set a timer and worked for 15 minutes and quit. Next night . . . same thing. By the 4th night, I was almost done with the project and rather than having spent a full hour on Saturday . . . I spent 15 painless minutes over the course of 4 nights. It really works! The Big Fall Prep List: Week One Projects [10:54 - 18:55]We're taking our own advice from above and we're breaking down our MASSIVE fall home prep list into 5 or 6 smaller lists. Each week, we'll go over the next list, and finally, by the end of October . . . if you've done all the projects we've mentioned . . . your home will be ready for winter! And it won't have been a terribly painful journey. (Which is GREAT!)Here's the Week One list . . . and we start things off easy!GET ON THE CALENDARMany seasonal service providers see their calendars fill up quickly. So, make those phone calls this week!Call to schedule your sprinkler system winterizationCall to schedule any tree maintenance you may needMake a plan for your leaf removal--if you need bins, get them reserved!Consider scheduling a furnace...

On Today's EpisodePlaster's Ancient Past [00:00 - 14:28]We were surprised to see how far back the use of plaster as a building material goes! 3 Tips for Hanging Art on Plaster Walls [14:28 - 19:00]Plaster is great for a lot of reasons (covered in the previous segment), but from personal experience, hanging a simple piece of art on a plaster wall can be a real pain! Here are some tips to make sure your new art isn't hanging on a pockmarked and damaged wall! "No Fear" Fall Painting [19:00 - 27:50]Fall is a great time to paint outside and wrap up those exterior projects we didn't finish this summer. BUT, in order to have great results, you have to find a way to navigate the colder temps and the sneaky rain and heavy dew that seem to lurk around every corner! Happily, we've got a couple simple guidelines that will keep you painting in the ideal situations so you get the best results. Also, we dig into a "Silver Bullet" exterior paint that has been designed almost exclusively for early and late season exterior painting: Element Guard from Benjamin Moore. If you want to ensure that you have great results in the fall or spring . . . Element Guard is really the only choice!6 Reasons Why You Should Paint for the Holidays Now! [27:50 - 38:29]No, we're not saying that you should be decorating for Christmas yet! That's crazy. However, we are recommending that if you have some repainting or touching-up to do before the holiday festivities get underway . . . now is the time to start. Here's why:You've got the time! Time to choose your color the right way; time to order wallpaper if you want it; time to do the prep work completely; and time to get everything back together well before guests arrive!The Pressure's Off! No big meals to prepare, no parties to attend. No Christmas shopping to finalize. Right now, the pressures of the holidays are still ahead. Don't wait until that's on your shoulders before you start looking at the updates you want to do to your space!You Can Open Windows and Ventilate!You Have an Increased Work Space! Once it gets cold and the snow sets in, most of us only have our homes to work in. However, right now, we can still make use of our garage if we need extra space for a kitchen cabinet re-paint or something like that.You Have Better Lighting! The lighting right now isn't as good as it was a month ago, but it's still lighter out in the evenings than it's going to be in a few months! And that extra lighting, even when working indoors, can really help!You Have All Winter to Enjoy the Fruits of Your Work. Let the holidays and their busy-ness be all that fills up your plate in November and December and then enjoy that newly repainted space all the rest of winter!Bonus Reason #1 Bonus Reason #2

On Today's EpisodeKilling Spray Cans Safely [00:00 - 10:49]First, we answer a common question about paint recycling: yes, RepcoLite will take back unwanted latex paint and we'll either recycle it (if possible) or responsibly dispose of it (if necessary). The cost is $3 per container and the material must be in its original container. From there, we talk about the best way to deal with a basement full of old spray cans you no longer want or need!Why to DIY [10:49 - 18:58]There are a lot of reasons to DIY. Here are just a few:Save moneySave time waiting for repairsBuild a sense of accomplishmentLearn new skillsAnd gain confidence so you can tackle MORE repairs and projects around the houseBragging RightsFaulty Excuses That Keep Us From DIYing [18:58 - 32:21]There are a lot of excuses that keep us from tackling a project. And most of them just don't stand up!BASIC APPLIANCE REPAIR TOOLKIT:Screwdriver Set (Phillips and Slot)Putty KnifeNut Driver SetImpact DriverCombination Wrench SetSocket SetMultimeterWire CuttersWire StrippersNeedle Nose PliersPliersAllen WrenchesNylon BrushesBrass BrushesVice GripsNeedle Nose Vice GripsChannel LocksCrescent WrenchHammerLevelHead Lantern/FLashlightRazor KnifeMagnetic PickupMagnetic Parts DishElectrical TapePlumber's TapeZip TiesBASIC AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR TOOLKIT:The tools in BOLD above plus...Vehicle JackTire Iron and Breaker BarWheel ChockTorque WrenchTire Pressure GaugeOil Filter WrenchDrain PanSpark Plug Gap GaugeOBDII Scanner (Check out this super cool scanner from BlueDriver)Getting the Best Results [32:21 - 39:58]Lastly, we talk about a few things you might want to do to ensure that you get the best results possible!

On Today's EpisodeWelcome Back, Hailey [00:00 - 11:30]Hailey's back from maternity leave! We check in and see how life is with a new baby in the house...When Everything Goes Wrong [11:30 - 19:00]In the last 3 months, Hailey's home has struggled! We've all been there (or if you haven't, it's coming!), but it's still tough when it hits.Steps to Getting the Best Roof Estimate Possible [19:00 - 32:08]RESEARCH THE PROCESSThis will help you understand terms of the trade and give you some background knowledge. When they start talking about decking, underlayment, flashing and&nbsp; types of nails you can be more engaged and won't just be smiling and nodding!&nbsp;Having background knowledge also helps you formulate questions!&nbsp;GET MULTIPLE QUOTESIt's tempting to go with the first quote you get and call it good. But don't do that! Get multiple quotes to make sure the price is right but also to make sure you're getting the best company. The quotes take time (sometimes as long as 2 hours) and it's tempting to want to wrap the process up. But you're better served to work through it and talk to multiple companies before making your final decision!SLEEP ON ITThe roofers want to get you to close the deal on the day of the estimate. It's a better plan to sleep on it. Take some extra time and don't let yourself get rushed into a decision.TAKE TIME PICKING A COLORThe roof makes up a huge part of the exterior of your home! Take time to make sure the color you're choosing is the right one! Ask for samples--as large as possible--and take your time....Key Questions to Ask During the Roof Estimate [32:08 - 39:03]Are you bonded and insured?Are you a roofer? Not every estimator has been a roofer--find out if your's has!What materials do you use and why?Can you provide proof that your installation meets manufacturer specs?What will the process look like? How long does it take? What does clean up look like? How do you protect my home and yard?How many people will be onsite?Will you be onsite?Who can I contact throughout my experience?What is your warranty? Will you provide me with all the warranty documentation?What things might cause deviation from the contracted price?Understand what they charge for flashing and plywood How do they check to make sure decking is still good?Look at the reviews! Ask for a home they recently doneFinally . . . ask yourself: who do you communicate best with?

On Today's EpisodeInterior Designer Andy Yates joins us for the full episode to talk about how to economically update a kitchen.

On Today's EpisodeMustard Seed Inspirations [00:00 - 18:58]Ali Bryde from Mustard Seed Beginning visits with us to talk about how she finds inspiration for all the projects she tackles.Interior Design 101 with Andy Yates [18:58 - 39:07]Interior Designer Andy Yates gives us a quick Interior Design 101 class.

On Today's EpisodeThe Woodward Dream Cruise [00:00 - 19:09]The Woodward Dream Cruise is the worlds BIGGEST single day automotive event. Learn more here!Home Solution for Killing Driveway Weeds [19:10 - 26:20]The formula:1 Gallon Vinegar (horticultural vinegar works even better)1 cup of salt (regular table salt)1 Tablespoon of dish detergentCommand from Corotech [26:20 - 39:37]

On Today's EpisodeThe Do's and Don'ts of Drone Flying [00:00 - 18:57]Adults Live Here, Too! [18:58 - 39:24]Interior Designer Lauren Figueroa talks about designing spaces that feel like adults live here, too!

On Today's EpisodeThe Front Door Color That Can Earn You $6500![00:00 - 05:23]Believe it or not, data shows that there's a particular front door color that will help you make a LOT more money when you sell your home. Painting an Imaginary Room . . . for Cheap! [05:23 - 39:13]Paint projects are not expensive (in the grand scheme of things). We take a few segments to walk you through an imaginary bedroom repaint. We start with the assumption that you have ZERO tools and we show you what you need and what you can skimp on to save money while still getting great results!

On Today's Episode1. Repairing/Replacing Interior Doors [00:00 - 13:54]2. Getting Over Color Fear, Part 1 [13:54 - 19:00]REPCOLITE REWIND: The Invention of the Roller Cover [19:00 - 28:38]3. Getting Over Color Fear, Part 2 [28:38 - 51:31]4. The History of the Electric Drill [51:31 - 105:29]

On Today's EpisodeA Little Recanting About Hoses [00:00 - 06:24]A few weeks ago, Dan A. gave a pretty glowing review for a garden hose that he had TRIED but had not yet purchased. We promised that when he owned one of these Flexilla Hybrid Polymer hoses, we'd report back and let you know if it was as good as he expected it to be.Turns out, it's not! It's a good hose, but not for the purposes Dan needed it for. Now, he's spent the last few weeks purchasing and testing out all kinds of different hoses and he's got some recommendations.Kids' Rooms Matter [06:24 - 18:59]What was your room like when you were growing up? Do you remember it? Did it have a positive impact on you? A negative impact? Or no impact at all?In this segment, Hailey and Dan have a conversation about the importance of letting kids create their own spaces. As well as a conversation about how important it is to temper what the kids want to create so that it's not literally insane. Do I Have Hardwood Floors? [18:59 - 30:00]Before we get to the project of refinishing hardwood floors . . . we need to cover some preliminaries and help you determine if you've got hardwood floors to begin with.In some instances, you may have laminate floors or luxury vinyl plank floors. And while they look great, they're not real wood and cannot be refinished.In other instances, you may have engineered wood floors instead of solid wood planks. Those CAN be refinished, but only a couple of times.Or maybe you've got wall to wall carpet and are trying to figure out if you have wood floors.Whatever your situation, in this segment, we'll help you figure out what you've got to work with and if it's a floor that can be refinished! And here are some extra resources if you're interested:How To Identify Wood Flooring -- 5 Different Types Are There Wood Floors In Your Home?Engineered Wood Floors Vs. Solid Wood FloorsHow to Tell if Your Floor is Laminate or WoodRefinishing Hardwood Floors [30:00 - 39:00]If you've got hardwood floors lurking under your carpet, you're just a week's worth of work from having some amazing, one-of-a-kind floors in your home!

On Today's EpisodeIt's the Fourth of July weekend and we're excited to delve into our crates of radio goodness and bring to light some 4th of July gems from the past! The Story of Old Glory [00:00 - 09:25]What better way to start the 4th of July Extravaganza than a look at the history behind Old Glory?Flag Etiquette 101 [09:25 - 18:56]Many of us are flying the Stars and Stripes today . . . let's make sure we're doing it in a respectful manner! (I'm looking at you . . . flag-draped trucks).RepcoLite Rewind: Where's Your Phone? [18:56 - 29:18]Scott Hudgens, Manager of the RepcoLite store in Birmingham joins us to talk about easy-to-build yard games guaranteed to get your family off their phones!SCOTT'S INSTRUCTIONS for CORNHOLE BOARDSWhen learning how to make cornhole boards, you'll find that the platform is actually one of the easier parts to build. Start with building the frame, then add the top of the board.STEP ONE: THE FRAMEThe proper dimensions for a cornhole board are 4' x 2'. The frame of your cornhole board should reflect these dimensions, because the top will need support from edge to edge. Cut and join 2x4s, PVC pipe, or whatever other material you choose to meet these dimensions. Make sure all your corners are perfectly square. This is harder than you think if you don't have the right tools. Join them with screws or bolts that will hold them firmly in place.STEP TWO: THE TOPThe top of a wooden cornhole board is often made out of a sheet of plywood that is cut to 2' x 4' dimensions. You can also use a sheet of thick plastic. It doesn't matter what material you're using, just make sure the top is cut to the right size.Attach the top of your platform to the frame you built in step one. Again, use a sufficient amount of screws or bolts (or really strong adhesive) to firmly attach the top. I like to do this before I cut the hole, but do whatever you find easiest.To cut the hole, use either a jif saw or, for a cleaner cut, a 6-inch hole saw. When you cut, you want the center of the hold to be nine inches from the top edge of the board and centered between the side edges (12 inches from each).STEP THREE: THE LEGSThe platform of a cornhole board is straightforward as the dimensions are always the same. The legs, however, change depending on the design you followed to build the platforms and what material you are using for the legs. The top of a cornhole board platform should be raised 3 inches off the ground in the front and 12 inches off the ground in the back. Most designs don't require any legs in the front of the board, but the back legs will need to be custom-built to get the back of the board the desired 12 inches. Remember: measure twice, cut once!CORNHOLE BOARD DESIGNSOnce your board is built, feel free to paint, stain, or otherwise decorate it in anyway you see fit! Unpainted wooden boards should be sanded, stained, and coated in polyurethane for a sleek surface. Make sure there isn't anything sticking out that will snag bags or negatively affect gameplay!DETROIT TEAMS PAINT COLORSTIGERS: 2014-10 Festive Orange | 2064-10 Bold Blue | OC-118 Snowfall WhiteRED WINGS: 2000-10 Red | OC-118 Snowfall WhiteLIONS: 1622 Mineral Alloy | 798 Blue Suede ShoesPISTONS: 2086-10 Exotic Red | 2066-20 Evening BlueBen Franklin: The Man, the Myth, The Swimming Legend [29:18 - 45:44]One of my favorite segments of all time! Ben Franklin was a renaissance man. He was a remarkable personality and there's a lot we can learn from his amazing life.Thomas Jefferson, Interior Designer [45:44 -...

On Today's EpisodeThe Right Tools [00:00 - 04:45]Projects naturally go better when you use the right tools. What Do I Need for a Garage Floor Makeover? [04:45 - 32:29]Painting garage floors is popular for a couple reasons: First, it can turn a garage from an ugly storage area to a more finished space. And, secondly, a sealed surface is much easier to keep clean.However, it is one of the most difficult and demanding surfaces to paint and has to hold up to vehicle traffic, water and chemical attack, surface contamination from oil and other vehicle fluids, and the variable nature of concrete. PREPARATIONMOISTURE TESTNewer homes will have a vapor barrier installed beneath the concrete floor, older homes probably don't. If you're in an older home, the amount of water vapor that passes through concrete would probably surprise you. This moisture creates a challenge for adhesion of paint. To determine if your floor is an ideal candidate for a garage floor makeover, perform this simple moisture test: Use duct tape to adhere a 3’ square piece of plastic film to the floor. After about 24 hours, look and see if there is any condensation on the back of the plastic. If so this indicates a significant amount of water is passing through the concrete, and failure of a coating is likely.PREP NEXT STEPSIf you don't see evidence of water under that plastic, then the next steps in preparation are:Make sure the surface is clean and dry (If the floor is new, wait at least 30 days for concrete to cure before prep/painting)If the concrete is new or especially smooth, you should etch it to remove impurities (laitance) found in new concrete and to create a surface profile that helps paint adhere.When it comes to etching, do NOT use muriatic acid (AKA Hydrochloric acid) because it is very difficult to rinse thoroughly and a small amount of residual acid on the concrete will inhibit proper adhesion and peeling paint could result. Acid can also migrate into the concrete, further corroding it and even the steel reinforcement which can lead to concrete failing - breaking apart.Instead use a concrete etching solution that is phosphoric acid based, which is less aggressive and easier to rinse, and also less irritating to skin, eyes, lungs. Be aware that etching is not the same as cleaning. Etching solutions won't remove dirt, oil or other contaminants that could affect the adhesion or durability of the coating. Use a detergent degreaser product on those areas before etching.Etching solutions will not work if the concrete is treated with a sealer. The only way to know if your floor has a sealer is: if the etching solution doesn’t “fizz” when applied to the surface, there is probably a sealer present.There are drawbacks to etching that might make another surface preparation method such as grinding or shot blasting preferable. beside the need to thoroughly rinse, acids present health (chemical burns on skin, lung irritation) and environmental concerns. Also, results from etching can often vary depending on the density and porosity of the concrete. After etching and rinsing, the concrete will need to dry out for a few days before a coating can be applied.FINISHING Now you're ready to paint. What products should you use?Single component paints lack the chemical, water and abrasion resistance required for a durable job. Even two-component water based epoxy paints don't offer the resistance properties of a similar solvent based product.So, with that said, we recommend a two-component coating, and there are a few different types:Solvent-thinned polyamide epoxy100% solids epoxyPolyasparticSolvent thinned epoxy: RepcoLite Poly-Glaze Epoxy, BM Corotech...

On Today's EpisodeBug Spray vs. Ticks Review [00:00 - 14:22]The ticks are SO bad right now where Dan H. likes to go walking that he's considering just getting a virtual reality headset so he can enjoy the outdoors that way. However, he knows that's not a good solution, so he's tested 5 Common Insect Repellents to determine which one is the best against ticks.The Five Tested Insect Repellents:OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods--AerosolOFF! Deep Woods Dry--AerosolOFF! Family Care--Smooth and Dry AerosolOFF! Picaridin Sportsmen--Pump SprayMaggie's Farm Natural Insect Repellent--AerosolThe Ratings:FIFTH PLACE: Maggie's Farm Natural Insect RepellentPROSSmelled greatall natural ingredientsCONSDidn't stop ticksHeavy oil feel (grass clippings and other assorted pieces of nature stuck to Hannah--the test subject--for the entire length of the time outside. Not a huge deal, but she DID crab about it. A lot.)FOURTH PLACE: OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods AerosolPROSRepelled ticks wellCONSOily feel, though not as oily as the all-natural repellent above.Strong odorTHIRD PLACE: OFF! Deep Woods Dry AerosolPROSRepelled ticks wellNo oily feelCONSStrong odorSECOND PLACE: OFF! Picaridin Sportsmen Pump SprayPROSRepelled ticks wellPleasant odorMinimal oily feelSafe for gearCONSPump spray made complete, consistent coverage difficultTHE WINNER: OFF! Family Care--Smooth and Dry AerosolPROSRepelled ticks wellPleasant odorCompletely dry feelEasy applicationCONSNoneThe WRONG Contractor [14:22 - 18:59]Finding the right contractor is important. Here's why and here's how!Also check out:314 301Indoor Projects You Need to Tackle Now [18:59 - 25:31]It's summer (almost), and so we've been talking about tons of exterior projects. However, there's a very good reason (3 very good reasons, in fact), to tackle some of those indoor projects now rather than waiting for fall!Is New Scuff-X Any Good? [25:31 - 39:14]With changes in Michigan's VOC regulations in regards to paint coatings, Benjamin Moore's Scuff-X had to be reformulated. What does that mean for a product that's been almost universally loved by contractors and DIYers alike since it came out in 2017? We've got the scoop....

On Today's EpisodeBuilding Your Own Eden [00:00 - 18:58]We are in the studio with Scott Vanderberg and Chris Harkema from Vanderwall Brothers talking about outdoor spaces.Your backyard can be so much more than it is! Vanderwall Brothers can help you create a perfect vision for any budget.DETAILS19156 174th Ave - Spring Lake, MI616-842-4500Deck Cleaning: A Quick Look [18:58 - 26:32]Many decks throughout Michigan are looking pretty rough. If your deck isn't exactly the haven you'd like it to be, you can fix that! And it's not a tough project.Benjamin Moore Deck Cleaners we discussed:RESTOREBRIGHTENREMOVECLEANOnFloor Machine Rental Contact Info:Peter Ogle ([email protected])9 Mistakes When Choosing Front Door Colors [26:33 - 50:02]Painting a front door is a quick and easy project with HUGE curb appeal. Yet, there are some mistakes people commonly make along the way . . . .

On Today's EpisodeFlex Tape to the Rescue? [00:00 - 07:12]After finding some damaged hoses, Dan prepared to do the repairs. One of his kids spoke up and recommended Flex Tape as the solution. The commercials are all over the place and they show Flex Tape solving problems in a miraculous fashion. But did it work in Dan's situation?Front Door Masterclass [07:12 - 30:24]Scott Hudgens, Manager of the Birmingham RepcoLite, is hosting a "Paint Your Front Door" Clinic in his store on Saturday, June 17. We sit down with him to discuss what the clinic looks like and to cover the info he'll be covering! Painting a front door is THE premier "boost-your-curb-appeal" project. If you want to make an impact and do it quickly and for very little expense, painting your front door is the answer!You Can't Do That: Recreational Fires [30:24 - 39:09]When it comes to recreational fires in the city, there are a few things you need to know....

On Today's EpisodeWith Memorial Day weekend here, we wanted to spend a little time focusing on what the day is about, so the last half of the show is dedicated to the day and the men and women who've given their lives in the service of their country. Vinyl vs. Wood Fencing [00:00 - 07:30]If you're on the fence when it comes to fencing materials, here's some information that may help you decide which one is right for you!Hello New Products! [07:30 - 18:37]Having new products to offer is always fun. Knowing that some of these products are going to offer solutions for tough situations is even better. All Gave Some, Some Gave All [18:57 - 33:03]We sit down with U.S. Navy Chaplain, Retired, Beth Stallinga to talk about Memorial Day from the perspective of someone who's spent her career in service to her country. Don't miss this interview!The First Decoration Day [33:03 - 39:12]Usually, we equate the year 1868 with the beginnings of Memorial Day. But recent (1990's) historical evidence suggests that there was another, much earlier beginning for the heart and soul of Memorial Day....

On Today's EpisodeA Baby Announcement [00:00 - 05:38]Long-time co-host of the show, Hailey, had her baby! We share some info and do a little reminiscing...How Michigan's New VOC Rules Will Impact All of Us [05:38 - 33:28]New regulations regarding VOCs in paint and coatings went into effect in April in Michigan. And while it may seem like it may not impact you . . . chances are, everyone will feel it a little.Gone are oil-based deck products, polyurethanes, interior and exterior stains, and more. What does that mean? Are the waterbased alternatives as good? Also, if you (like so many people do) rely on oil-based products to get the job done, you'll be eager to hear that RepcoLite is actually still allowed to produce all of these oil-based, go-to, traditional products for 5 more years. So if you need them, we've got something that will work for you. We talk about all of that and much more in this segment!The Perfect Hose [33:29 - 38:58]With only a little time left in the show for the week, we opted to discuss hoses. Dan #2 is looking for a new hose and he's sick of the standard options--the ones that kink and are hard to uncoil. He's found a great alternative....Flexilla Garden Hose

On Today's EpisodeThis week, our show was pre-empted in the West Michigan market, so we decided to air a "Best Of" episode featuring some of our favorite segments.The (Tasty) History of Tulips [00:00 - 09:30]In honor of the end of Tulip Time 2023, we talk about the surprising (and surprisingly "tasty") history of tulips.Touch-Up Master Class [09:31 - 18:59]Ever touched up some scuffs on your wall only to have less than perfect results? We've got answers!Ladder Folklore [19:00 - 30:40]Ladders are common tools around the home. They're crazy old . . . and with all that use over all those years, there are bound to be some interesting stories that have arisen through the ages. We discuss some of our favorite (and the funniest) ladder-related history and folklore.Floor Painting [30:41 - 39:15]Painting a floor can really infuse a room with energy and interest. If you're thinking about this kind of project, check out this segment. We've got the info you need to get great results.

On Today's EpisodeHow to Remove Moss from Your Roof [00:00 - 15:32]FORMULA I USED:1 Pound Oxygenated Bleach2 Gallons of WaterTHIS IS FOR DIY Formulas! If you purchased a roof cleaner, follow label instructionsFIRST: RINSE PLANTS AROUND BASE OF HOUSESECOND: RINSE THE ROOF WITH LOW PRESSUREIF You spray from the ground, be cautious NOT to spray up under the shingles.May be better to get on the roof and spray at a downward angleBe careful–it’s slipperyALSO: Be careful with a hose on the roofDon’t damage your shinglesThis alone may be reason to call someone else to do it….THIRD: IF DEALING WITH HEAVY MOSS, SWEEP LIGHTLYUse a soft-bristled brushScrub lightly from top downDon’t damage shinglesRemove what you can of the moss before spraying on your cleanerMost of my moss wouldn’t come off at that pointFOURTH: APPLY YOUR CLEANING SOLUTION WITH A GARDEN SPRAYERAllow to stay for 15 - 20 minutesRinse thoroughlyAGAIN: LOW PRESSUREAnd spraying from the top downIF POSSIBLE don't do this from the groundDon’t push water up under the shingles.FIFTH: A SECOND QUICK SWEEPAfter rinsing . . . Swept it againThis time a lot of moss came off–filled up the guttersLichen began to powder away over the following weekIt MAY take more than one treatment to kill all of the MOSS.If you have to reapplyDo so only after it's been allowed to thoroughly dry.SIXTH: GIVE THAT LANDSCAPING ANOTHER RINSE!Just to be safe, it doesn't hurt to spray your landscaping down one more time after you've finished on the roof. A FEW THINGS TO REMEMBER:Don't use a pressure washer!Don't allow the bleach to remain on the surface for more than 30 minutes without rinsing.Take precautions with bleach -- goggles, etc.RINSE WELL – oxygenated bleach will leave a white residue if not rinsed wellProtect the landscaping, decking, etc. below and around the housePre-rinse plants and decking and rinse off immediately after.Use plastic to cover plantsFor some folks, this is a Hire it Out Project!If that’s you, make the call!Don’t get on your roof if you’re not comfortable with it!There are plenty of places out there waiting to help!PREVENTATIVE MEASURESThe moss and lichen will come back as time goes by. Here are some easy preventative steps to help slow that down:Trim back tree branches!&nbsp;Sunlight is your friend!Remove debris that accumulates on the roof regularly with a leaf blower.Always work DOWN the slope!&nbsp;Don't blow debris or spray water up under the shingles.Keep gutters clean to promote water drainage.Figure on regular maintenanceMaybe It's Time to Update the Camper [15:33 - 39:03]We don't usually think about throwing a new coat of paint in our campers or RVs . . . but maybe we should....

On Today's EpisodeJust Say No to One Coat! [00:00 - 6:25]We are people, too! We know how tempting it is try to squeak by with one coat of paint. Here are 5 quick reasons why you shouldn't do that! 1) ONE COAT MIGHT NOT LOOK AS GOOD AS YOU THINK!Lighting can affect what we seeWet hide versus Dry hide – not the same things2) 2 COATS GIVE BETTER LONG TERM RESULTSBetter Color Representation → Better LookBetter Durability, washability, etc.3) IT'S MORE CONVENIENT TO DO IT NOW . . .&nbsp;Furniture’s movedDrop cloths are downTape is appliedYour tools are out!Putting everything away now and finding you need a second coat just turned that one project into two projects!4) SECOND COATS ARE WAY FASTERYou’re not cutting in againYou’re not doing all the prepYou’re just rolling that surface!5) PLANNING ON A SECOND COAT CAN PREVENT YOU FROM MAKING A HUGE MISTAKE!When people PLAN on only doing one coatThey tend to apply paint far too heavily!Runs, sags, and overall mess usually followPlanning on two coats right from the start means you apply paint correctly with each coat!Wet Basement Horror Stories (and the Fixes!) [06:26 - 32:24]Zack Krieger from Ayers Basement Systems joins us to talk about some wet basements, creepy crawlspaces . . . and the fixes that are available! Don't live with bad basements--Ayers can help!Call Ayers: 866-379-1669Or visit Ayers onlineBig Time Curb Appeal [32:34 - 39:01]Cleaning the house is (relatively) simple! Dan tackled the (neglected) vinyl siding on the back of his house. And in 20 minutes, or so, he had tremendous results. You can give your home a much needed bath this weekend using Jomax House Cleaner. Check out the segment for more info!

On Today's EpisodeGetting Unstuck [00:00 - 7:08]Life's busy and projects and maintenance and all kinds of other jobs can get pushed to the side. And often, when that happens, there's a bit of guilt that starts to build. We should be wrapping these things up. And if we're not, what does that say about us?Well, I'm in the middle of a long slog through this and in my efforts to figure out what I might need to do to get myself moving again, I think I stumbled on some obvious info that might be helpful to more people than just me.So, if you're feeling overwhelmed and a little guilty about projects at home, maybe this will help a little.CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACKIt sounds touchy-feely, but being down on yourself--being negative--isn't productive. Negativity doesn't produce more results or better results. It really just slows the process down. So it's important to ease up on yourself a little bit. You're not a lazy homeowner, you're just busy. Maintaining a home is a marathon and it's OK to take your time as you move through your projects. So, stop beating yourself up for what you may feel is a lack of results. That's first. But there's a lot more....GET MOVING WITH A LISTFor me, the problem is basically that there are so many things I'd like to do or need to do that I don't know which to do first. They hover over me, filling up my mind, and I find myself randomly chasing down projects only to abandon them part way through when I see the next "squirrel". In the end, I find I'm almost running in circles.If you've got so many things to do that you don't know where to start, here's something simple: make a list. Just brainstorm. Everything that comes to mind, everything that's looming over you, demanding your attention. Take all of those things and throw them down on paper. You're not prioritizing this list yet. You're not filtering it. You're just throwing everything you can think of that's bothering you, that needs to be done, that you want to see changed . . . down on that pad of paper.Once that's done, then sort the list into 3 categories: Must Do; Should Do; and Would Like To Do.If you get all the way through that step, you've just solved your "I don't know what to do first" problem. You've got a list of maybe 3, 5, 10 or more Must Do projects. That's a perfect place to start.TIME TO STARTNow that you've got those Must Do projects clearly identified, now what you (and I need) is a little momentum. We need to see some success. We need to see how good it feels to cross something off the list . . . and we need to leverage that energy, that momentum, into more accomplished projects.So pick one of the smaller Must Do projects and get it done. You don't need to tackle it all in one work session, but don't start any other projects from your list until this first one is done. That's really key! You need to start, work through, and finish this first one. FIGURE IT OUT or HIRE IT OUT!Sometimes it's having too many projects that causes us to get stuck. But sometimes we're stuck because we don't know how to do something. We know we don't know how to do it, we're convinced it may be difficult to figure it out, and so we just linger in limbo. I do that all the time. I'm too cheap to hire things out usually (and I feel that I should be able to figure them out and do them); but I'm also convinced that certain things are going to present a ridiculous learning curve. And so I just push the project to the back of my mind and hang out in that horrible limbo.That's not productive--obviously! And if that's you, it's time to either jump in and learn the skills necessary, or hire the work done. I know that hiring things done sometimes feels like a cop-out. I also

On Today's EpisodeSurge Protectors Vs. Power Strips [00:00 - 06:57]With some recent lightning storms, we've heard a couple horror stories where people lost a lot of the electronic devices in their home after a power surge. There's a simple, inexpensive solution that most of us know about . . . but not all of us use: surge protectors. And before you tune out because you think you've got a couple surge protectors on your devices, make sure that what you're using isn't just a power strip. They look like surge protectors, but don't do a whole lot when it comes to protecting your stuff! Here are a couple of great articles that spell it out clearly:Surge Protector Vs. Power Strip Vs. UPSWhat's the Difference Between a Power Strip and Surge Protector?Worm Farming [06:58 - 18:55]Hailey's still on the "composting train" and now she's digging into worm farming. It's a fun project that could help you turn all your food scraps into valuable compost--black gold! Worm Farming InstructionsElement Guard from Benjamin Moore [18:56 - 30:52]Every now and then a paint miracle emerges from a lab somewhere . . . like some sort of superhero. A number of years back, it was Scuff-X. Now, we're looking at Element Guard from Benjamin Moore--an exterior paint that allows you to paint even when rain is only an hour away....Clean Those Gutters! [30:53 - 38:52]It's not been a nice Spring . . . at least not yet. And there's a good chance you haven't worked on getting your gutters cleared after winter. But with all the Spring rain just around the corner . . . it's time to get the gunk out!

On Today's EpisodeSpring Cleaning Around the World [00:00 - 11:49]Spring cleaning reaches back to Biblical times and beyond... We explore how the world approaches everyone's favorite Spring pasttime.20 Minutes to Clean [11:50 - 18:59]We love the idea of a clean house, but getting started can be tough. We've got a trick that will get you moving. Best of all? It's painless.Can I Paint THAT??? [19:00 - 32:59]We see it all the time on TV and the web: people painting EVERYTHING. Tile floors, backsplashes, countertops, and even dishwashers. We see that and wonder: can I do that?? The bigger question is: should you?Check in with Hailey [33:00 - 39:10]Hailey's WAY pregnant and we get an update on how things are going...

On Today's EpisodeApril Fool's Day History [00:00 - 08:01]It's April Fool's Day and that means people all over the place are going to be pranking friends or getting pranked. But where does the day come from in the first place? The history is a little surprising!Best Hoaxes Through the Years [08:02 - 18:59]In digging into the history of April Fool's Day, we ran into a number of amazing hoaxes sprung on the unsuspecting masses throughout the years. Here are some of our favorites....100 Best April Fool's Day Hoaxes of All TimeIs Raspberry Blush Still Terrible? [19:00 - 32:02]That's a bit harsh! We don't think Benjamin Moore's Raspberry Blush is a terrible color . . . but we DO know that the color of the year for 2023 is pushing the boundary. Today we talk about how the bold colors of 2023 can be used in our homes.If It's Worth Doing, It's Worth Doing Poorly [32:03 - 39:00]We're used to hearing the phrase: "If it's worth doing, it's worth doing well." But today, we're putting a spin on it.

On Today's EpisodeThe Review Review [00:00 - 11:36]We revisit a few of our previous reviews and recommendations to see if they stood the test of time. Lomi Countertop ComposterYou can check out our original segment on Lomi down below. But the long and short of it is . . . after nearly a year of ownership, the luster has worn off a bit! The Lomi unit is great and does exactly what it's supposed to do . . . it's just that Hailey doesn't find herself using it for a variety of reasons. LOMI Countertop Composter Original ReviewGOVEE Humidifier and HygrometerAnother product we initially loved was the GOVEE Humidifier and Bluetooth Hygrometer. In this case, after a winter of use, Dan still LOVES it. There are a lot of different sizes available, but for the small room Dan needed to humidify, this has worked flawlessly. The Hygrometer works with the Humidifier to keep the room at a constant relative humidity of about 48-50%. And when the water is low . . . the GOVEE unit sends an alert through a phone app. Check out the original review below as well as the items themselves!Govee Smart WiFi HumidifierGovee Bluetooth HygrometerGovee Original ReviewDawn Platinum Powerwash Dish SprayA final product we looked at, back in February, is this dish spray you've probably seen commercials for. Hailey loved it back in February and since then, Dan's given it a try. After nearly a couple months of use, Dan agrees: this stuff is good . . . but he, of course, has found a cheaper solution that works for him . . . .Original Dawn ReviewHand Cleaner VS. Silly Putty [11:37 - 18:59]Hailey's friend, Amber visited and accidentally left a little silly putty embedded in the new rug in the nursery. Fortunately a great little hand cleaner was able to remove it in seconds. And while we know silly putty in carpets isn't terribly common . . . this hand cleaner is great for cleaning up after paint and stain projects (latex AND oil), automotive work, small engine repair . . . you name it! It's a great product and is worth a look. Check out the link below:Kresto Hand...

On Today's EpisodeCooking with Cast Iron [00:00 - 13:29]Cast Iron is old school, heavy, and a traditional weapon against burglars . . . but is it still serious cookware? Absolutely . . . it's the Serious-est.Pros and Cons of Cast Iron CookwareColor Sample Sale [13:30 - 19:00]Benjamin Moore Color Samples are the ideal way to make sure you've chosen the right color. The rest of this month, they're 50% off!How to Find the Right Contractor Everytime! [19:01 - 32:18]Hiring the right contractor is all about starting at the right time and looking for some signs as you get your quotes. We'll tell you everything you need to know!Paint Finishes--What Goes Where? [19:02 - 39:28]Paint finishes can be confusing. We'll break it down and . . . believe it or not . . . make it entertaining!

On Today's EpisodeIt's our 300th Episode and we're kicking back and celebrating! 300 Episodes [00:00 - 07:25]We make a correction to our Chicken Conversation from last week and talk about the fun we've had making 300 episodes!Extension Cords [07:26 - 18:59]Getting the right extension cord is a big deal! In this segment, we talk about everything you need to know to make the right choice.Powering 15 amp tools for 25 feet? Go with a 14 gauge cordPowering 15 amp tools for 50 feet? Go with a 12 gauge cordPowering 15 amp tools for 100 feet? Go with a 10 gauge cordSome Resources:Determining the Right Extension CordChoosing the Correct Extension CordSelecting the Right Extension Cord for Your Power ToolsExtension Cord ChartWhat Size Extension Cord Do I Need?Extension Cord Buyer GuideRepcoLite Rewind: Painting Your Cabinets [19:00 - 29:45]This segment for our Detroit listeners comes from Episode 220.Faking It With Paint [29:46 - 42:39]Paint can cover your walls with color . . . but you can do a lot of other creative things using just a small amount of paint! We talk about using paint to create wainscoting, "big" trim, "wallpapered" walls and more.Laser Levels and Why You Need One! [42:39 - 50:12]In the projects we talked about in the last segment, a tool that will simplify your work dramatically is a laser level. We talk about a number of different projects where a laser level is a must have!

On Today's EpisodeInflation Chickens [00:00 - 11:03]With rising egg prices, there may be just ONE reasonable way to proceed: raising our own chickens. Inflation Chickens are a real thing and we're wondering whether or not it makes sense!Nurseries (Again) [11:04 - 26:52]We talked about some nursery struggles last week. This week, we want to talk about the best paint choices if you're painting while pregnant. And, we want to spend some time talking about how to pull a nursery together so you don't have to re-do the entire thing in just a couple years when your new baby is a toddler. RepcoLite Rewind for Detroit: Perfect Project Planning [26:53 - 38:54]We go back to an old segment from April of 2022 and discuss some key steps to take if you want to start crossing projects off your to-do list!Sad, Neglected Spaces [48:54 - 59:24]Every home has spaces that are not as nice as others. There are different reasons for this, but the bottom line is that neglected spaces drag us down. They hover over our heads and are constant reminders that there's more work to be done! Let's figure out where our neglected spaces are, why we've neglected them . . . and let's get them taken care of!

On Today's EpisodeIt's a banner day on the show as we get to break some breaking news....Dormant Seeding [00:00 - 06:50]Hailey missed the opportunity in the fall to overseed her lawn. Disappointed, she turned to the internet and discovered the concept of Dormant Seeding. If your lawn has some bare spots and you'd like to get a leg up on spring, maybe a little dormant seeding is just what's needed.SOME RESOURCES:How to Sow Grass Seed in WinterWinter Dormant SeedingDormant SeedingBenjamin Moore Budget-Friendly Paint [06:51 - 18:59]Sometimes, we can convince ourselves that Benjamin Moore is the paint that you buy if you've got money to burn. Turns out, Benjamin Moore offers some great budget-friendly options. In this segment, we shine a light on just a couple of them....REPCOLITE REWIND: Picture Rails [19:00 - 31:48]This blast from the past for our Detroit listeners is from March 19, 2022.The BIG Announcement [31:49 - 52:31]We have a special guest who joins us to break some pretty big news....Decorating a Nursery [52:32 - 1:01:55]Decorating a nursery seems fun and exciting . . . but then, there are so many considerations to make. Before long the process becomes a chore rather than the exciting project it should be!

On Today's EpisodeUnderstanding Paint Cure [00:00 - 08:20]Yes, we are literally doing a segment on watching paint dry. But it's important info! Paint can dry to the touch in hours or less . . . but it doesn't reach it's full durability for much longer. We've got the info that will help you make sure you're next paint project turns out beautifully.High Efficiency Wood Burners: Tax Credit [08:21 - 18:59]Kurt Zink, Fire Scientist from Vanderwall Brothers stops by to talk about high efficiency wood burners and a 2023 Tax Credit.Biomass 2023 Tax Credit infoRepcoLite Rewind: Caroline's Story [19:00 - 31:18]This time, we head back to January 2021 to talk about a friend of ours who lived through a HUGE color-selecting fiasco. Happily, there are some takeaways that can help all of us choose the right color every time.High Efficiency Wood Burners: Practical Info [31:19 - 42:00]Kurt Zink is back for part 2 of our interview on wood burners and this time we dig into the practical side of things. How do wood burners compare with gas? How do we know which unit is right for us? And so on!Reach out to Kurt at Vanderwall Brothers and Heritage FireplaceFor Detroit Listeners, check out Creekside Hearth and Patio in AlmontKilling the Winter Blues (Real Good) [42:01 - 58:35]We recorded this segment on a sunny February morning. Three hours later, we had a wonderful rain/snow mix falling down with 2 inches or more already on the ground. Perfect case in point: winter isn't done, yet! If the winter blues are dragging you down . . . we might have the fix!

On Today's EpisodeToday's show is really all about sneaking pops of color into unexpected places! It can have a huge impact on your interior design . . . but where do you draw the line? How much is too much? And which spots are the right ones?The Bold New Colors of Kohler [00:00 - 19:00]Kohler has just announced two new colors that we'll be seeing in kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and even toilets! These are historical colors and one of them, Spring Green, first debuted nearly 100 years ago in 1927. What's old is new again! We discuss the new colors, the history behind them, and the modernism that spawned them in the first place. Also, here are some links to some great pieces from Kohler's Marketing Past:Retro Renovation: The First Colors for Bathroom FixturesREPCOLITE REWIND--Painting Ceilings, Step-By-Step [19:01 - 30:45]Our show is now playing in the Detroit market as well as in Grand Rapids. However, the Detroit station has a slightly different format, so to fill the extra time, we're playing some great segments from past episodes that the Detroit audience has never heard. Here's a step-by-step guide to painting ceilings that first aired in February of 2022.Wallpapering the Closet? [30:45 - 51:12]I've wallpapered walls and rooms and even bookcases and the bottoms of drawers . . . but I've never wallpapered a closet. Sara Pen has, though--and she LOVED the results. Sara's a busy mom who's spent the last few years raising her kids, renovating her home, and recording it all on social media. She's got a lot of great, creative ideas and has tackled some fun projects. We sit down with her to discuss one of her latest . . . . Find Sara on Instagram!

On Today's EpisodeOn this episode, we focus on a design trend that's been "a thing" for a while: using plywood as a finish material in interior design. We discuss the idea and toss around a few things to consider if you're thinking about jumping in!Dawn Powerwash Review [00:00 - 13:46]Maybe you've seen the commercials . . . maybe you've been skeptical. Put that all aside. Hailey's been using this new dish washing miracle and LOVES it! Aura Bath and Spa: Not Just for Bathrooms? [13:47 - 24:55]We draw from a lengthy conversation we had with our Detroit Benjamin Moore rep, Jon Potoski regarding Aura Bath and Spa. Jon isn't in the segment (though he was in the studio and on the show last week!), but in our conversations, he pointed out how a growing number of contractors in his area are using Bath and Spa outside of the bathroom because they're looking for a "flatter" matte than Aura Matte. Bath and Spa fills that need.Jon explained that the contractors who've begun using it on walls throughout the home are finding it a nice switch from other interior flats offered by other paint companies. Aura Bath and Spa provides a similar finish to a flat enamel, offering some washability with lower sheen than a standard matte. We encourage any contractors who are using a flat paint from a competitor but who'd like to step up the coverage and hide as well as the washability of the product they're using, to give Aura Bath and Spa a try.We highlight those points, explain how flatter finishes hide imperfections and texture better, and then, of course, camp on Bath and Spa as the ideal bathroom paint.Plywood and Interior Design: A Bridge Too Far? [24:55 - 45:22]The last two segments are a discussion about a friend of Hailey's who's using clear-coated plywood as full wall accents in her new home. She had even considered using it as the finish wood for her kitchen cabinets, but eventually decided against it.As strange as it may seem, clear-coated plywood has been a trend in interior design for a while. It leans into a Scandinavian style of design and while it's more popular on the different coasts, it's still something we see from time to time in the Midwest.We feel it's largely a reaction to the relative cold and dreary nature of gray--a color that's dominated interiors for a while now. People are shifting towards warm natural tones and plywood brings that . . . along with texture which adds to its appeal.However, there's a concern when jumping on trends. We spend a fair amount of time urging listeners to make their design choices based on solid likes and dislikes rather than by following the newest thing.We talk about paint and wallpaper as obvious alternatives to going with full plywood. After all, the plywood is trending because of the warmth and color it brings to the space. Paint and wallpaper can do all of that with much less commitment! &nbsp;We also talk about the concerns revolving around trying to change a plywood interior when/if we ever get tired of the look.The big takeaway at the end is something we highlight all the time: trends are great as starting points and for idea-gathering. But in the end, you need to love your home. Choose what you like regardless of what the trends are telling you....

On Today's EpisodeAre You Moisturizing? [00:00 - 08:44]Here's the video Dan was talking about at the beginning of the segment!We talked about Dan’s smart humidifier last weekHow it can be an essential home appliance during the winter&nbsp;Which reminded us there are simple maintenance steps many of us forget about during winter months!&nbsp;Conditioning the wood and leather in our homeAs wood or leather loses moisture, it shrinks, which can result in cracks in your beautiful wood cutting board or favorite chair.&nbsp;Even if you don't have leather furniture this same rule applies to leather bags, coats, shoes etc.&nbsp;Make a plan to oil your wood cutting boards and furniture once a month during the winter, or whenever they feel very dry to the touch.&nbsp;The entire process takes less than five minutes—and it could help preserve your cutting boards and furniture for years to come.Cutting Boards:First, make sure your cutting board is clean and thoroughly dry.Using a clean cloth apply CUTTING BOARD OIL&nbsp; to the surface of the board&nbsp;distribute the oil evenly&nbsp;&nbsp;let the oil soak in for a few hours or up to overnightUsing another clean cloth, wipe off any excess oil. Your cutting board should look shiny and revived, without being damp to the touch.For Wooden Furniture:Note: Follow these steps for oil-and-wax or stain-and-wax finishes, not painted or lacquered pieces.Wipe the furniture with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust. Follow with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.Apply wood polish to a clean cloth, then wipe it onto the furniture, working in the direction of the grain.Let the oil soak in for about 30 minutes before buffing in and wiping away any excess oil.Leather Furniture:Leather lasts forever with the right amount of care and upkeep, so why not get the most bang for your buckIt’s recommended to clean light-colored leather every six months and dark-colored leather once a year.&nbsp;start by vacuuming the leather couch to get rid of any crumbs. Then dust it, if necessary, to remove any lingering dirt.&nbsp;Make sure it's completely dry&nbsp;Now it's time to get down to business and use cleaners.&nbsp;Leather cleaners can help break down the dirt and stains to make your leather couch look like new.&nbsp;Some products are 2-in-1 and contain both the cleaner and conditioner.&nbsp;This part is very important - Spray the cleaner onto a cloth, rather than directly onto the furniture!Prevent it from leaving spray marks.&nbsp;Wipe lightly all around, making sure to clean the edges, nooks, and crannies.&nbsp;Work from top to bottom to avoid any uneven polish marks.After you've cleaned, make sure to wipe away any excess cleaner before conditioning the couch.&nbsp;Grab your favorite conditioner, either in spray or bottle form, and apply a small amount onto a clean cloth.&nbsp;Conditioners are great because they contain healthy oils to make your furniture look fresh, smell phenomenal, and stay moisturized. Extends the life of your furniture!Once you've finished buffing in the conditionerAllow the leather to dry for an hour or so to let the product seep inAvoid getting the oil on your clothing.&nbsp;Damaged Drywall Repair [08:45 - 18:59]Ever removed some base board or maybe a backsplash or a toilet

On Today's EpisodeLaundry Bag Hacks [00:00 - 06:14]You've heard of mesh laundry bags, I'm sure. And maybe you've had good luck using them for their intended purpose: laundry. But there are a lot of other creative uses for these cool, mesh bags! Here are just a few:BABY STUFFNew baby in the house? It can be really tough to take care and keep track of all their gear once you've tossed it into the washer. If you've struggled with that, give this a try: toss socks, bibs, hats, nursing pads, and any of their other tiny accoutrements into these zippered washer bags and keep track of them while you wash them!MORE BABY STUFFSticking with the baby theme . . . bottle parts, pacifiers, and other things like this are usually dishwasher-friendly. However, they're tiny and can easily fall through the gaps in the racks. Toss those pieces and parts (after confirming that they're dishwasher-safe) into mesh laundry bags and run them through the dishwasher that way.BEACH TOYSBeach toys are a mess! The sand gets everywhere. So, toss them in one of the big, drawstring mesh laundry bags and carry them around that way. When the kids are done playing with them at the beach, pack them into the mesh bag, and before you toss it in the car, walk it out into the lake and rinse everything off in the bag! BATH TOYSBath toys can end up filling the whole tub . . . Instead, get one of the big, drawstring mesh bags hang it from the shower head. Use that for toy storage! Even though they're stored wet, they'll easily dry through the mesh.BIG PUZZLES or TOYS with PIECESBig, wood-block puzzles are fun, but it's not long before all the pieces are shuffled everywhere. Store those puzzles in separate zippered bags and keep everything together. Or, what about Mr. Potato Head toys or other things like that? Want Mr. Potato Head's eyes and mouths and his little tie and feet to all be available for the next day? Store him and all his parts in a laundry bag.There are tons of other mesh laundry bag hacks! If you have a few that you use on a regular basis, let us know! You can email us at [email protected] Humidifier [06:15 - 18:58]Dan bought a new guitar and quickly realized that in order to maintain it throughout the winter months, he was going to need a humidifier. After doing some digging, he purchased the humidifer in the links below as well as an accompanying hygrometer.Together, the system is working brilliantly: He can set the desired humidity and that's it. The humidifier and hygrometer work together to maintain the room at exactly that relative humidity. The unit is quiet, easy to fill and clean, and because the humidifier turns itself on and off as necessary, he finds he doesn't need to fill it as often as other humidifier that simply run all day until their empty or manually turned off. Govee Smart WiFi Humidifier<a...

On Today's EpisodeVillage Custom Interiors: Which Countertop is Right for You? [00:00 - 13:34]Dan and Hailey are joined by Darin DeHaan and Tara Ezinga from Village Custom Interiors to discuss the pros and cons of popular countertop materials for kitchens and bathrooms.&nbsp;Steam Cleaning Saved Me Again [13:34 - 19:00]Hailey’s New Years Eve celebration almost ended in tragedy. Hear all about how a steam cleaner saved the day and why everyone could use a steamer.&nbsp;Paint Color Tips for New Builds [19:01 - 32:53]Dan and Hailey discuss a recent color consultation and the tips everyone needs to know when picking paint colors.&nbsp;Order of decorating&nbsp;Paint color selection should come lastMake sure lighting is in place&nbsp;Start with Neutrals&nbsp;Makes sure you have samples of all of your finishes&nbsp;Flooring&nbsp;Cabinets&nbsp;TileCounter&nbsp;Upholstery&nbsp;Always Sample!Tips to Follow When Asking for Decorating Advice [32:53 - 39:30]Dan and Hailey discuss a quote they recently heard “before someone had an opinion you had a goal”. Asking for decoration advice can be tricky but there are a few tips that will help you navigate those waters without losing sight of your own goal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Today's EpisodeRodents and PEX Piping [00:00 - 06:37]PEX piping is becoming more and more popular and for good reason! There are a ton of pros to using PEX . However, there is one BIG CON. Dan and Hailey discuss how to avoid running into problems if you have PEX plumbing in your home.&nbsp;Are You Paying More for Your Water Than You Should? [06:38 - 19:00]Dan and Hailey are Joined by Mark from Great Lakes Plumbing to discuss plumbing maintenance and common signs that you have a plumbing issue that is costing you money every month!Contact Mark at the Plumber is Here!Give Yourself a Break (and Other Lessons from 2022) [19:01 - 39:31]As we say goodbye to 2022, Dan and Hailey look back at the year and discuss the most important lessons they learned. If you’re a DIY’er or an aspiring DIY’er, these are&nbsp; rules to live by.

On Today's EpisodeThe History of the Christmas Orange[00:00 - 08:12]Many of us decorate with oranges for Christmas. A few of us even continue the tradition of giving them out as gifts. But where does that tradition come from? Hailey has some answers....The History of Snowmen [08:13 - 18:59]Snowmen are not a new concept. In fact . . . SOME archaeologists postulate that they were possibly a favorite past time of primitive man! We've got the whole story here!A Christmas Carol [19:00 - 30:55]Dan's favorite Christmas tradition is watching every rendition of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" that he can find! It's a great little Christmas story AND, surprisingly, it quite possibly inspired the Christmas celebrations we enjoy today!Also, as promised, here are a list of Dan's favorite movie versions:Scrooge with Albert Finney (1970) Yes, it's a musical and yes, there are a number of prominent critics who hated it. But this is the version I grew up with and it's my family's favorite. A Christmas Carol with George C. Scott Although just a made-for-TV movie, this one is also great. No singing, but George C. Scott is a pleasure to watch!A Christmas Carol with Patrick Stewart Another TV movie, but it's still great.Finally, here's the play we found online! Christmas Memories and Contest Winners [30:55 - 39:30]Before we announce our contest winners from our big Christmas Giveaway, we reminisce about some of our favorite (and most brutal) Christmases!