Home In Progress

Home In Progress

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Home In Progress episodes

  • Choosing Exterior Paint Colors with Confidence: Tips, Tricks, and Practical Advice

    This episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, guides listeners through the process of selecting exterior paint colors with confidence. Topics covered include the importance of considering existing materials and landscaping, the impact of lighting on color appearance, and the influence of architectural style on color decisions.

    Dan also discusses how to use color samples effectively, the Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio app, and the benefits of using high-quality paints such as Benjamin Moore and RepcoLite. Listeners are encouraged to take their time, seek limited but trusted opinions, and use available resources to make informed decisions about their exterior home colors.

    00:00 Sweet corn!

    05:07 Choosing Exterior Paint Colors with Confidence

    09:38 Ground Rules for Picking Exterior Colors

    13:04 Considering Existing Materials and Constraints

    18:41 Introduction to Exterior Color Selection

    19:37 Architectural Styles and Color Schemes

    21:12 Colonial, Victorian, and Craftsman Homes

    23:30 Ranch Homes and Mid-Century Colors

    25:30 Working with Brick Exteriors

    29:35 How Many Colors to Use?

    32:49 Shutters, Doors, and Final Thoughts

    37:03 Choosing the Right Paint


    40 min
  • Front Door Colors, Deck Stain Options, and More

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, Dan Hansen shares his recent adventure at Six Flags Great America and insights on how his diminished senses make him a 'superhero.'

    The episode then delves into practical home improvement topics, including a detailed comparison of bagged vs. bagless vacuums, the benefits of RepcoLite's new waterborne Deck and Dock stain, and useful advice on choosing the perfect front door color. Listeners get recommendations on tools and products, insights on color psychology, and tips on keeping their homes aesthetically pleasing and up-to-date.

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote

    03:59 Show Overview and Upcoming Segments

    05:13 Bagged vs. Bagless Vacuums: A Detailed Comparison

    10:56 Favorite Things: Power Pump Plunger and Freshly Painted Ceiling

    19:12 Repco Light's New Deck and Dock Waterborne Stain

    20:31 Choosing the Right Deck Stain

    21:54 The Benefits of Waterborne Deck Stain

    22:47 Easy Cleanup and Quick Drying

    25:33 Application Tips for Deck Stain

    31:17 Selecting the Perfect Front Door Color

    32:26 Popular Front Door Colors and Trends

    37:38 Practical Tips for Painting Your Front Door

    38:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  • Mastering Deck Projects: Tips, Steps, and Product Choices

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, host Dan Hansen dedicates the entire episode to deck projects. Dan discusses how such projects can feel overwhelming due to the numerous steps involved and the plethora of products on the market. He shares personal anecdotes, such as refurbishing his own deck, and outlines essential preliminary steps including inspecting the deck's structural integrity and cleaning it before applying stain. Dan also compares different types of stains—translucent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid—highlighting their unique benefits and best-use scenarios.

    Additionally, he distinguishes between the processes and advantages of using oil-based versus water-based stains. The episode includes insights on using tools like the Wooster Bravo stain brush and renting an on-floor machine. Lastly, listeners are informed about the ongoing sale on deck staining products available at Repco Light until June 16.

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    01:18 Common Deck Problems and Solutions

    03:30 Personal Deck Project Experience

    04:02 Important Considerations Before Starting

    08:51 Cleaning Your Deck: Why and How

    11:01 Chemical Cleaning Methods

    16:21 Using the On-Floor Machine

    18:51 Applying the Stain

    19:01 Introduction to Deck Staining

    19:41 Applying the Stain: Methods and Tools

    23:18 Important Tips for Stain Application

    24:36 Drying and Final Steps

    26:05 Choosing the Right Deck Stain

    28:56 Understanding Deck Stain Types

    36:36 Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Stains

    38:36 Conclusion and Final Advice

    40 min
  • The Importance of Skilled Trades: A Conversation with Drew Anderson

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen discusses the significance of skilled trades with Drew Anderson from Harmel Academy of the Trades.

    They delve into the reasons behind Drew's passion for the trades, the current shortage of skilled workers, and the misconceptions that trade jobs are less valuable than a college education.

    The conversation covers the personal and societal importance of working with one's hands, the value of failing and learning, and the deeper spiritual meaning associated with trades. Drew also highlights the unique approach of Hormel Academy in forming young men into skilled tradesmen and the exciting future prospects for the industry. If you're considering a career in trades or want to understand their broader impact, this episode offers valuable insights.

    LINKS: Harmel Academy

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    00:03 The Importance of Skilled Trades

    00:47 Personal Connection to Trades

    01:25 The Crisis in Trades and Character

    03:06 The Shortage in Skilled Trades

    04:22 Changing Perceptions of Trades

    09:56 The Dignity of Work

    20:11 Encouraging Young People to Explore Trades

    23:05 A Surprising Survey on Basic Skills

    24:38 Learning Through DIY Repairs

    25:58 The Importance of Teaching Kids Practical Skills

    27:16 Parenting Challenges and Letting Kids Help

    28:16 The Value of Work and Household Chores

    28:57 Introducing Harel Academy

    29:08 Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity

    35:22 Connecting with Others to Learn Trades

    39:28 The Future of Trades and Manufacturing

    42:22 Exciting Developments at Harel Academy

    47 min
  • How to Handle Wrong Paint Color Choices

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan explores the common dilemma of choosing the wrong paint color for a room.

    Key tips include sampling paint, trusting your gut feeling, and understanding the impact of lighting and surroundings on color perception.

    If you do end up with a color you dislike, he provides six essential questions to consider before making any hasty decisions. The episode concludes with advice on potentially tweaking the current color and repurposing the paint for other areas, emphasizing patience and a positive mindset through the repainting process.

    00:00 Introduction and Morning Greetings

    00:23 Bathroom Books: A Library Story

    04:35 The Dilemma of Choosing the Right Paint Color

    06:08 Tips for Avoiding the Wrong Paint Color

    10:34 Trusting Your Gut on Paint Colors

    12:07 Dealing with the Wrong Paint Color

    14:36 Questions to Ask Before Repainting

    17:37 The Impact of Lighting on Paint Colors

    19:17 Adjusting to Change in Paint Colors

    20:35 Understanding the Fear of Change

    21:53 Overcoming the Fear of Change

    23:22 Is It the Wrong Color or the Wrong Room?

    27:23 Reevaluating Your Vision

    33:27 What to Do When You've Chosen the Wrong Color

    37:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    40 min
  • First Impressions, Front Doors, and Faux Finishes

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan shares personal anecdotes about challenging first impressions and provides expert advice on painting your front door to enhance curb appeal. He covers essential tips for choosing the right day, gathering supplies, and applying paint.

    Additionally, Dan features an interview with Barbara Klein, a decorative painter and former respiratory therapist, who discusses her transition into the world of faux finishes, furniture refinishing, and the influence of her father's carpentry skills on her work.

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes

    00:17 The Importance of First Impressions

    05:28 Making a Great First Impression with Your Home

    07:24 Choosing the Right Day for Painting

    09:10 Gathering Supplies for the Project

    12:41 Prepping and Painting the Door

    16:01 Pro Tips for a Perfect Finish

    18:44 Interview with Barbara Klein

    20:12 Transition from Respiratory Therapy to Decorative Painting

    21:13 Joining the International Decorative Artisans League

    22:08 Techniques and Tools in Faux Finishing

    24:14 Challenges in the Medical Field

    26:28 The Joy of Transforming Homes with Paint

    28:30 Ceiling and Large-Scale Projects

    33:02 Furniture Transformation and Foil Techniques

    35:23 Legacy of Carpentry and Personal Reflections

    38:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  • Navigating Home Improvement and Real Estate Market Challenges

    Join the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, as we embark on a journey from a simple task of cleaning crumbs to tackling home improvement projects. Host Dan Hansen talks about how kitchen crumbs led him to caulking the bathroom tub. This experience leads to a conversation about 'The Prep Trap,' where Dan discusses the importance of staging prep work for efficient home painting.

    In the latter part of the show, real estate experts Sue Prins and Ginger Herman from Sue Prins Group, 5-Star Real Estate Leaders, share their insights on the current real estate market trends in West Michigan. They discuss strategies for buying and selling homes, the impact of low inventory, and legal ramifications when backing out of a purchase agreement. Filled with humor, practical advice, and expert insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in home improvement and the real estate market.

    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

    00:07 A Crumb Leads to a Caulking Adventure

    05:12 The Prep Trap: Avoiding Over-Preparation

    08:04 Real Estate Market Insights with Sue and Ginger

    09:13 Current Market Conditions and Trends

    12:21 Challenges for First-Time Home Buyers

    17:37 Spring Market and Inventory Expectations

    18:40 Introduction and Market Update

    19:49 Strategies for First-Time Home Buyers

    22:24 Navigating Real Estate Challenges

    30:18 Legal Complications in Real Estate Deals

    37:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  • Duct Cleaning--Yea or Nay?; Finding Meaning Through Paint with Keegan Somers

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, host Dan Hansen discusses home dust issues and the mixed effectiveness of duct cleaning based on listener feedback.

    The episode's highlight is an engaging interview with Keegan Somers from Vivid Creative Contracting, who shares insights about his family-run business, the rewarding nature of his work, the importance of proper prep work in painting, and valuable tips for DIYers. Somers also reflects on the merits of pursuing a trade over a traditional college education. The episode concludes with a note about Benjamin Moore paint discounts.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Sick of the Cold

    02:50 Show Overview and Guest Introduction

    03:15 Dealing with Dust: Tips and Insights

    04:31 Duct Cleaning: Is It Worth It?

    08:54 Interview with Keegan Summers: Background and Career

    14:20 Finding Meaning in Work

    19:21 Common Misconceptions About Painting

    21:09 The Importance of Consulting Experts

    22:39 Weirdest Job Site Experiences

    24:41 Favorite Tools and Products

    29:23 Cabinet Repainting Tips

    33:47 Life Outside of Painting

    35:36 The Value of Trades vs. College

    38:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

    40 min
  • Battling Dust and Repainting Kitchen Cabinets: Step-by-Step Guide

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, the focus is on providing a comprehensive guide to repainting kitchen cabinets and dealing with dust in your home.

    Dan begins by sharing a personal struggle with dust accumulation, offering insights into what dust is made of and sources of dust in homes, highlighting various practical tips for controlling it. The latter part dives into a detailed, step-by-step discussion of repainting kitchen cabinets, covering everything from proper labeling, cleaning, sanding, and priming to finishing touches. This episode provides valuable information for both DIY enthusiasts considering this project and those who might opt to hire professionals.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction and Show Overview

    00:34 The Dust Dilemma: Personal Confessions

    04:37 Understanding Dust: What It Is and Where It Comes From

    13:14 Practical Tips to Reduce Dust in Your Home

    18:44 Upcoming Segment: Painting Your Cabinets

    19:18 Introduction to Kitchen Cabinet Painting

    20:15 Why Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets?

    22:26 Preparation: Removing and Labeling

    24:31 The Importance of Prep Work

    26:01 Cleaning and Scuff Sanding

    28:37 Priming Your Cabinets

    31:25 Applying the Finish

    34:32 Final Touches and Reassembly

    36:08 Final Tips and Conclusion

    40 min
  • Tackling Greenish Walls, Sanding Techniques, and Wooster Jumbo Koters

    In this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, sponsored by Benjamin Moore, Dan discusses various topics including how to achieve flawless results with orbital sanders, the benefits of Wooster Jumbo Koter roller systems, and he answers a listener question about weirdly green walls.

    Listeners also get insights into choosing the right paint colors and improving their painting techniques.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction and Show Overview

    00:34 Orbital Sanders: Avoiding Common Mistakes

    04:00 Exciting Sales on Painting Tools

    05:06 The Convenience of Wooster Jumbo Coder System

    10:59 Wooster Sherlock Extension Poles

    14:49 Pelican Paint Pail: A Handy Tool for Painters

    18:32 Conclusion and Teaser for Next Segment

    19:44 Removing the Finish: A Personal Anecdote

    19:56 Dealing with Swirl Marks: Lessons Learned

    21:54 Orbital Sander Tips: Start Right

    23:46 Orbital Sander Tips: Correct Speed and Pressure

    27:09 Orbital Sander Tips: Working Through Grits and Dust Extraction

    29:41 Final Tips for Using an Orbital Sander

    31:31 Listener Question: Solving a Color Reflection Issue

    38:12 Conclusion and Contractor Appreciation

    40 min

About Home In Progress

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Home in Progress—the weekly show from RepcoLite Paints where we dig into the projects and little fixes that make home life better. Paint colors, design tricks, flooring, plumbing, yard…