The RepcoLite Home Improvement Show

Dan Hansen & Hailey Johnson

RepcoLite's weekly radio show focusing on color, design, paint, and projects . . . as well as plumbing, roofing, yard care, flooring and more. If it makes your house a better place to be, we're talking about it on air! read less
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Episodes

Fence Etiquette; Why Should I Use Drywall Primer?; The Value of Color Consultations for Business, Realtors, and More
09-03-2024
Fence Etiquette; Why Should I Use Drywall Primer?; The Value of Color Consultations for Business, Realtors, and More
On this episode, Dan and Hailey delve into a big discussion regarding fences. Fences can make good neighbors . . . but they can also stress out some relationships! Dan and Hailey have the answers to help you navigate a fence conversation with your neighbors. Maybe you're going to install a fence . . . maybe they have and you're concerned about how it looks. None of that is easy ground to cover . . . but there are some tips to help. Additionally, they talk about the benefits of using drywall primer and the importance of utilizing color consultations for homeowners, businesses, contractors, and realtors. They discuss the impact of color on brand perception for businesses, how color can enhance curb appeal for realtors or individuals selling their home, and the efficiency color consultations can bring to painting contractors. 00:00 Introduction and Show Overview01:05 Fence Etiquette: The Do's and Don'ts03:09 Fence Etiquette: Dealing with Neighbors06:06 Fence Etiquette: Style and Neighborhood Compatibility10:19 Fence Etiquette: Property Lines and Disputes15:15 Fence Etiquette: Painting and Staining Dilemmas18:40 The Importance of Drywall Primer19:53 Finger Skateboarding: A Curious Trend20:22 Welcome to the Replica Light Home Improvement Show20:26 The Importance of Priming Drywall21:02 The Benefits of Priming: A Detailed Discussion21:38 The Art of Painting: Techniques and Challenges22:36 The Economics of Priming: Saving Money with the Right Approach26:27 The Contest Announcement: Win a Color Consultation26:54 The Value of Color Consultations for Businesses, Realtors, and Contractors35:45 Color Consultation Tips for Homeowners37:47 The Big Contest: How to Enter and Win38:40 Wrapping Up: Subscribe, Review, and Join Us Again
Dealing with House Centipedes; The Festool ETS-125 Sander; Why You NEED a Color Consultation
02-03-2024
Dealing with House Centipedes; The Festool ETS-125 Sander; Why You NEED a Color Consultation
In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan and Hailey discuss a week filled with unexpected pest encounters, including ticks, spiders, and an incident with a house centipede. They provide insights on the benefits house centipedes offer by eating other undesirable bugs, though they also share the heart-attack-inducing fact that female centipedes can live up to three to five years and produce a vast number of offspring. Practical advice is given on how to manage household pests by eliminating food sources and sealing up the home. Additionally, they discuss the Festool ETS 125 sander and make a case for why you might need one! Finally, they focus on the concept of color consultations, explaining who can benefit from this service, what it entails, and how to enter a contest to win a personal consultation with Hailey.00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back00:25 Launching a Contest and Discussing Festool Sanders00:34 Bugs, Ticks, and Spiders: A Week in Review02:06 The Unexpected Benefits of House Centipedes03:24 How to Get Rid of House Centipedes05:21 Introducing Festool Sanders06:43 Why Festool Sanders are Worth the Investment11:59 Who Should Consider Buying Festool Sanders14:06 The Benefits of Festool Sanders for Hobbyists and Professionals18:04 Unbiased Reviews and High Prices18:22 Demo Models and Customer Feedback18:40 Exciting Contest Announcement19:01 The Value of Color Consultations19:28 The Contest Details and Benefits20:32 The Role of a Color Consultant23:02 The Pitfalls of Asking Family for Color Advice24:21 The Expertise of a Color Consultant26:14 The Importance of Sampling Colors30:52 The Follow-up and Final Recommendations31:22 How to Enter the Contest38:47 Wrapping Up and Contest Reminder
Buying Vacant Land: Does Your Land PERC? And Other Considerations
24-02-2024
Buying Vacant Land: Does Your Land PERC? And Other Considerations
On Today's EpisodeDan flies solo and talks about painting aluminum siding. Later, he's joined by realtors, Sue Prins and Ginger Herman who discuss crucial elements to consider when buying vacant land. Furthermore, they also shed light on the current state of the housing market and predictions for the coming months.The show wraps up with Kevin Hermann, from Benjamin Moore. Kevin's a long-time guest and today he discusses his favorite Benjamin Moore and RepcoLite Products. Can I Paint Aluminum Siding? [00:00 - 07:19]In this segment, Dan talks about a question he's received from some friends who just bought a new house with an absolutely HIDEOUS color on their aluminum siding. They want to know--of course--if they can paint it! Dan confirms that not only is it possible to paint aluminum siding using regular, non-specialty paints, but he also believes that the endeavor is worth undertaking if the current color of the siding significantly bothers the homeowner. Buying Vacant Land with Sue Prins and Ginger Herman [07:19 - 19:00]The conversation features Ginger Herman and Sue Prins from the Sue Prins Group Five-Star Real Estate Leaders, discussing the key considerations in buying vacant land. The discussion covers the importance of understanding a buyer's purpose for acquiring the land, whether it be for farming, house construction, or simply storage. They underscore the role of a knowledgeable realtor in identifying challenges such as availability of water, sewer, and the need for local authority permissions based on intended land use. They further delve into essential factors like the need for a PERC test to ensure the land is suitable for septic system installation. They additionally highlight a realtor's role in facilitating a buyer's understanding of other critical elements such as zoning restrictions, mineral rights, flood plains, and the possibility of land splitting. The conversation ends with a plan to discuss financial considerations and the current state of the real estate market in the next segment.The State of the Real Estate Market [19:00 - 29:59]Dan continues his discussion with Ginger Herman and Sue Prins from Sue Prins Group, focusing on procedures for getting a loan for vacant land purchases, and programs for landowners looking to build within five years. The interview also provides information on special loans for hunting properties and farmland. The demand for vacant land in certain areas can lead to bidding wars, just like for houses. The conversation then delves into the state of the regular real estate market. The market has sped up with an increase in multiple offers situation, although not as many as before. More home inspections are being conducted more frequently. Housing inventory has started to slowly increase becoming a seller's market. Also, mortgage interest rates are slowly but surely coming down.Favorite Paints & Why That Should Matter to You! [29:59 - 39:26]In this segment, Dan chats with Kevin Hermann from Benjamin Moore about Kevin's three favorite Benjamin Moore products, highlighting their superior quality, durability and versatility. The products are Regal Select, Scuff-X, and Regal Select Exterior. He also reveals his favorite RepcoLite products, praising Zip Prime and #65 Exterior Primer. Besides product discussion, they also touch on the implications and changes brought about by new OTC-2 regulations affecting the paint industry.
Goodbye Water Stains; Designing with Complimentary Color Schemes; and the Kenmore PM2010 Air Purifier
10-02-2024
Goodbye Water Stains; Designing with Complimentary Color Schemes; and the Kenmore PM2010 Air Purifier
On Today's EpisodeThis week Dan and Hailey talk about one of the big Problem Solvers in the paint world: stain blocking primers. You may not know about them . . . but they can save you from a lot of frustration! They also discuss the benefits and practical ways to implement Complimentary Color Schemes in your home design to achieve a dynamic, harmonious look. They offer advice on how to avoid common pitfalls and keep the design subtle yet impactful, ensuring it fits well with the rest of your home. Finally, they focus on Hailey's recent experience with her newly purchased Kenmore air purifier, its benefits for indoor air quality, and its impact on allergies. A Stain Blocking Primer That Works! [00:00 - 06:56]Dan and Hailey talk about RepcoLite's Zip Prime, a stain-blocking primer that's ideal for addressing smoke damage, water stains, or tannin stains in wood. They also address the changes in Michigan VOC regulations and explain why Zip Prime is one of the only options out there for people who want an old-fashioned, traditional stain-blocker that works everytime. Keys to Great Design: Complimentary Color Schemes [06:57 - 33:53]In these segments, Hailey dissects the concept of color schemes as a part of color theory and describes how these can affect the atmosphere of a room. She gives detailed advice on how to make color choices less daunting, with a focus on using complementary colors. Examples from the color wheel are presented to better understand how these combinations work. The advantages of using color schemes, particularly complementary ones, are highlighted. Visual fatigue, room dynamics, space definition, and color harmony with adjoining rooms are among the important aspects discussed. Hailey uses her personal experience and professional expertise to give practical tips on successfully incorporating these schemes into home design, emphasizing the importance of color saturation, determining the main and accent colors, and considering the appearance of the entire house. In addition to discussion, visual aids for these color schemes are promised to be shared on the show's social media platforms. Dan's just here for looks.Clearing the Air with the Kenmore PM2010 [33:53 - 39:22]In this segment, Dan and Hailey discuss the importance of indoor air quality and the use of air purifiers. Hailey shares her positive experience with her Kenmore PM2010 air purifier which she uses to combat dust, mold, pet dander, and cooking fumes that can contribute to allergies. She explains that, with the purifier at work, she has noticed a significant improvement in the air quality in her home. CHAPTERS00:01 Introduction and Apology to Tessa02:41 Introduction to Today's Topics03:22 Discussion on Zip Prime06:56 Introduction to Color Theory11:56 The Benefits of Complementary Color Schemes19:24 The Art of Using Opposite Colors20:38 Understanding Saturation and Its Role in Color Selection21:32 How to Desaturate Colors for Better Design25:45 Choosing the Star and Supporting Characters in Your Color Scheme26:23 Applying Complementary Color Schemes in Your Home33:55 The Importance of Indoor Air Quality34:10 The Benefits of an Air Purifier
Discussing Mold Fears, and Dishing out Insulation Solutions
03-02-2024
Discussing Mold Fears, and Dishing out Insulation Solutions
On Today's EpisodeThe episode is largely focused on the discussion of mold and mildew in the home, tackling the topics of mold anxiety, how to identify and differentiate mold and mildew, how to clean and treat them, and prevention tips. Chaz Varady from Koala Insulation stops by and shares expert knowledge on types of insulation, where to use them, and common insulation problems homeowners face. Dealing with Mold and Mildew [00:00 - 09:10]Dan and Hailey discuss mold and mildew, detailing their similarities and differences. They give out advice on how to identify both and handle infestations. Cleaning tips and when to consider professional help are touched on, stressing the speed of mold growth and potential health concerns. Insulation Solutions with Koala Insulation [09:10 - 30:19]Dan and Hailey are joined by Chaz Varady, the sales and marketing manager from Koala Insulation of Grand Rapids. Chaz explains that insulation is about controlling heat, to keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Chaz emphasizes the importance of the R-value, which measures the rate heat passes and transfers through insulation. He talks about how codes have improved over the years, setting higher R-value standards for walls and attics. Different insulation options such as blown-in fiberglass, blown-in cellulose, open-cell spray foam, and batts are outlined during the discussion. Chaz highlights that the choice of insulation depends on the customer's needs and house conditions, and homeowners may also need to consider ventilation in their attics. He gives information about the potential issues with old insulation and necessary removal and replacement procedures. The conversation also touches upon the possibility of mold in an attic caused by bad insulation and the solutions to treat it. Chaz mentions the financial incentives for homeowners, like rebates from energy companies and tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act for implementing energy-efficient upgrades.on customer needs, specific specifications, as well as the geographical location of the house. They wrap up the conversation by discussing a newer method of insulation called 'wall spray' or 'wet spray', mainly used for new builds.10 Mold Prevention Techniques [32:34 - 39:28]Dan and Hailey discuss strategies for preventing mold and mildew in the home. Solutions include using a dehumidifier, installing smart hygrometers, ensuring proper ventilation in susceptible areas like the bathroom and laundry room, storing items correctly in damp-prone areas, and more. These tips help keep homes safe, comfortable, and mold-free.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:12 Understanding Mold and Mildew01:39 Differences Between Mold and Mildew05:24 How to Treat Mold and Mildew09:01 Insulation Talk with Koala Insulation10:10 Understanding Insulation and R-Values12:47 Different Types of Insulation19:43 Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Home21:36 Identifying Insulation Issues22:53 Understanding the Importance of Ventilation23:51 Dealing with Mold and Infestations25:56 Insulation Lifespan and Replacement26:27 Energy Efficiency Rebates and Tax Credits27:28 Insulation and Ventilation Services28:50 Contacting Koala Insulation29:51 Conclusion and Wrap-up30:05 Preventing Mold and Mildew
Getting Professional Caulking Results; Design Trends for 2024 with Andy Yates
20-01-2024
Getting Professional Caulking Results; Design Trends for 2024 with Andy Yates
On Today's EpisodeDan and Hailey discuss some practical tips so you can get professional results the next time you caulk.Then, design expert, Andy Yates joins the show to discuss upcoming design trends for 2024, including a resurgence of a more organic, 70s-inspired aesthetic paired with the technology of smart homes. Finally, they break down how homeowners can approach their design projects and how to ensure their home reflects their personal style.Getting Professional Results When Caulking [00:00 - 08:18]Dan and Hailey review the importance of caulking during home improvement projects, highlighting four key reasons for caulking around houses. Then, they dig into some crucial tips that will help you get professional results when caulking even if you're new to the skill! KEY POINTS00:01 Introduction and Casual Conversation00:27 Introduction to the Show and Upcoming Topics00:36 Discussion on Weather and Pets01:36 Introduction to Guest Speaker and Design Trends02:20 Caulking Tips and Tricks03:41 How to Get Great Results with Caulking06:10 Practical Tips for Caulking08:04 Closing Remarks and Teaser for Next SegmentDesign Trends for 2024 with Andy Yates [18:58 - 32:34]Dan and Hailey are joined by Andy Yates from Andy Yates Design. They discuss the upcoming trends in design for 2024, including a resurgence of 1970s decor and a blending of different eras. Andy shares his insights into the future of interior design, emphasizing textures and a move towards softer, more muted colors.Additionally, they discuss the increasing integration of smart technology into homes and how homeowners should use research to figure out which design elements best fit their personal aesthetic. Importantly, they underscore the need for a home's interior to reflect the owner's personal style and taste exactly. They wrap up by discussing how to bring together all elements of design in a coherent way that works for the homeowner.08:20 Introduction and Welcoming Guest08:45 Discussing Design Predictions for 202409:41 Exploring Trends in Finishes and Materials10:42 The Influence of Texture in Design11:57 The Resurgence of 70s and 80s Design Aesthetics12:27 The Impact of Younger Consumers on Design Trends19:39 The Role of Technology in Modern Home Design30:01 Practical Tips for Homeowners Starting a Design Project38:49 Conclusion and Contact Information
Festool at RepcoLite; Choosing Colors with Confidence; How to Accomplish Your 2024 Projects; The Benefits of Caulk
13-01-2024
Festool at RepcoLite; Choosing Colors with Confidence; How to Accomplish Your 2024 Projects; The Benefits of Caulk
EPISODE 341 SHOW SUMMARYJanuary 13, 2024SEGMENT 1: Festool Comes to RepcoLiteIn this segment, Dan and Hailey share the news that RepcoLite will become a Festool dealer. They highlight Festool's innovative and well-engineered tools, specifically their sanding equipment which is well-known for its ability to leave the work environment dust-free. Additionally, they mention the history of Festool from 1925 till date.KEY POINTS:Introduction to the RepcoLite Home Improvement ShowBig News for RepcoLite: Introduction to FestoolDeep Dive into Festool's History and OfferingsFestool's Major Advancements in Circular Saws and SandersConclusion and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 2: The Science and Psychology of Color in Home Design with Cheryl AdamsIn this segment, Dan and Hailey interview Certified Design and Color Specialist Cheryl Adams. She discusses the importance of understanding the science of color and how it affects people's perceptions and feelings.Cheryl emphasizes the need to consider paint colors alongside other materials when planning home improvements. The show also announces a free presentation by Cheryl for those interested in learning more about choosing the right colors and materials. The presentation will be held on January 20th at the Birmingham RepcoLite store. Towards the end, Cheryl details how to contact her for personal consultations.CHERYL'S CONTACT INFO:cheryl@colorconfidenthome.com248-509-4720JANUARY 20 "COLOR CONFIDENTLY" SEMINAR INFO:Saturday, January 2011 AM to 2 PMRepcoLite Location in BirminghamTo reserve a spot, call: 248-646-5924KEY POINTS:IntroductionUnderstanding the Role of a Color SpecialistThe Importance of Color in Different SettingsAnnouncement of Upcoming PresentationKey Points of the PresentationThe Impact of Lighting on ColorChoosing the Right Paint Colors and MaterialsHow to Contact Cheryl for a ConsultationDetails of the PresentationClosing Remarks and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 3: Home Improvement Goals and Strategies for 2024Dan and Hailey discuss their home improvement plans for 2024 and offer tips on how to tackle ambitious projects. They underscore the importance of breaking these projects down into manageable steps, starting with identifying what has previously hindered progress. Hailey plans to take on painting the exterior of her house herself and plans to tackle it in smaller steps: one side at a time. It's all about taking small, achievable steps toward big goals. For Dan, the project is painting a space in his home. Seems straightforward, but he's wanted to do it for years but hasn't. For him, the path to success is first in identifying why he hasn't already done it. Turns out there's a reason beyond the obvious one of which he was aware! KEY POINTS:Introduction and Overview of Upcoming ProjectsHaley's Home Improvement Goals for 2024Breaking Down Big Projects into Manageable TasksThe Power of Small Steps in Achieving Big GoalsDiscussing Other Home Improvement ProjectsOvercoming Obstacles in Home Improvement ProjectsThe Importance of Getting Help and Making a PlanConclusion and Teaser for the Next SegmentSEGMENT 4: The Importance and Benefits of CaulkingIn this...
How to Get the Perfect Paint Match; Timeless Design--Morris & Co. Wallpaper; Last Minute Gift Guide
16-12-2023
How to Get the Perfect Paint Match; Timeless Design--Morris & Co. Wallpaper; Last Minute Gift Guide
On Today's EpisodeHow to Get the Perfect Paint Match [00:00 - 09:41]RepcoLite specializes in matching paints and stains (and more!) but not everyone is aware of that. So we're letting you know because color matches can be life-savers! Maybe you need to repair some damage on a wall, or maybe you need to replace a piece of trim. A color match can make those repairs flawless. But to get the best results, there are some things you can do to help!THE TARGET MATTERS!If you're matching paint on your wall or trim, bring us a sample of the actual paint on the surface. So, bring in a piece of the trim if you can. If the color you need matched is on the wall, cut out a piece of the face paper from the drywall. Be careful--you'll need to patch it later--but grab one from an area that's been exposed to the light. Don't grab one from a closet because it might not match. Just try to find one from an out of the way spot to make your patch easier!If you're matching wallpaper, wait until you've got your actual wallpaper in hand! Don't match from a book or from a sample.If you're matching to an old gallon of paint, don't bring us just a cutting from the label or the paint formula. Instead, bring the whole can with you! If there's wet paint in there, we can make any number of samples!Finally, bring as much as you can--don't be embarrassed. Bring your comforters, your pillows, your couch cushions!LET 'EM COOKMy kids use that phrase to let me know that I need to be patient--I need to let them have time to plan, to think, to work. Same is true with color matches! Sometimes we can crank them out quickly. Other times, it takes some time to dial it in. So, drop off your match and then run some errands! In a couple hours, we should have it ready for you!CALL AHEAD WITH QUESTIONSLast bit of advice: call ahead and tell us what you're working on. We'll tell you what you should bring us for the best results!Timeless Design: Morris & Co. Wallpaper [09:41 - 18:59]Wallpaper is something we talk about a lot. And in the recent past, we've talked about contemporary designs. We've wanted to focus on how wallpaper is current and trendy and definitely something to check out. But we haven't focused on another superpower of wallpaper: to connect us with history and tradition!Morris and Co. Wallpaper draws its inspiration from designs from over 100 years ago. And it's still available for purchase today. In this segment, we talk about William Morris, the founder.Also, as we mentioned, RepcoLite is one of only 2 places in Michigan where you can order Morris & Co. wallpaper! We've got their books in our Fulton Street store in Grand Rapids, and our Lakewood Blvd. location in Holland. The 2024 Last Minute Gift Guide [18:59 - 39:21]The RepcoLite Home Improvement Show Gift Guide is an annual classic. This year, here's our list of gifts to consider:BOY and GOING SOLO by Roald DahlChildren's author, Roald Dahl, wrote his autobiography in two different volumes: Boy, and Going Solo. These books are not your average, boring, dry, autobiography. They are short stories of events from Dahl's childhood (Boy) and his time in the RAF in the war (Going Solo). The stories are beautiful, funny, sad, and profound. They are amazing books and can be shared with anybody--you don't need to be a Roald Dahl fan to enjoy them! Find both of them in one volume, right here.TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARKLooking for some fun on a zip line? Want to run an obstacle course as a team-building exercise or...
What Bathroom Paint to Use; Historic Ceiling Design; and 2023's Christmas Contest
09-12-2023
What Bathroom Paint to Use; Historic Ceiling Design; and 2023's Christmas Contest
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...
Ductless Range Hoods, Battery Powered Lighting, and our 2023 Christmas Contest Begins!
02-12-2023
Ductless Range Hoods, Battery Powered Lighting, and our 2023 Christmas Contest Begins!
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:
How to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking Tape
26-11-2023
How to Get Sharp Lines and Professional Results with Masking Tape
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.
Can You Apply Latex Paint over Oil?
19-11-2023
Can You Apply Latex Paint over Oil?
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...