LISTEN NOW: Segment 1: Quarantine Prep for Projects We've been getting a lot of questions about prep work people can do now, with the supplies they have on hand, for a project they'll do when they can go out again. We got the most common project questions. Segment 2: Deck Questions We also know that a lot of people have been thinking about doing their deck, now that the weather has shown us some warmer, ...
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LISTEN NOW: Segment 1: The Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio App We've seen a lot of apps for paints colors, but Benjamin Moore's new Color Portfolio app is one of the best! And it couldn't have come out at a better time. With this app, you can literally sit at home and scroll through all of the Benjamin Moore color decks! Better yet, you can upload photos of your room and digitally apply the paint to ...
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LISTEN NOW: Segment 1: Seeing the World, Without Leaving Home There are literally thousands of websites that have opened up the world to those of us isolated at home! Many of them are subscription based sites that have lifted their restrictions and are allowing free access. Betsy goes through just a few of them. Below, we've got our choices for some of the best locations to check out! Frederik Meijer Garden and Sculpture Park Virtual ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 and 2: The Dominance of Gray We hang out with Interior Designers Kim Zolper of Kim Zolper Design and Nancy Von Ins of NV Interiors to talk about the dominance of the color gray in decorating. Kim Zolper (630) 460-8246 kimzolperinteriors@gmail.com Nancy Von Ins (312) 909-2727 nancy@nvinteriorsmi.com Segment 3: FREE Heating Tune-Up Semco Energy customers can get a FREE heating tune-up. We talk with Phil Stegenga, President of West Michigan Heating ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: OnFloor Machine We’ll give you the scoop on a machine we rent that will have your deck looking like new in now time! And it’s so easy to use, you can control it with just one hand! Segments 2 & 3: Buckingham Palace Wallpaper Preservation Betsy missed her calling when it came to this! Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing a HUGE renovation and update. All of the treasures are being moved ...
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LISTEN HERE: Betsy’s Alien Tomato Today Betsy opened the show talking about the alien tomato on her counter. It’s like the scene from Aliens where the creatures bust out of the poor victims’ chests! Anyway, she promised a picture . . . so here it is! Segments 3 and 4: Vork Brothers & the Pillar Church Restoration Today we sat down with Vork Brothers and talked about their work at Pillar Church in Holland. Here ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Prevent Frozen Pipes Ahhh, Winter. There’s a lot of fun that come with a Michigan Winter. And then . . . there are the other things. One of those other things is the worry about frozen pipes during cold spells. A frozen and burst pipe in the home is one of the most catastrophic issues that can happen in a home. But, the good news is that there are things we ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Hand Drill Guide We took a hand drill guide for a test run and found that while it’s not perfect, it’s a great way to transform your portable hand drill into a functional drill press! Again, it’s not for every project and if you’ve got a drill press, it won’t replace it or duplicate it’s accuracy. But for large boards, job site work, and so on, it’s a great option! Check ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: High Dollar Toilets Something is going on! There is suddenly in influx of stories about toilets and toilet paper. Who needs a roll of toilet paper that lasts a month? Is that a wise thing to have if you have young kids? Also, did you know there’s a toilet encrusted with Swarovski Crystals AND that the most expensive toilet at a cost of $19 Million is on the International Space Station ...
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LISTEN HERE: This is actually a revisit of Episode 83 from last year. Sometimes we’re sad that certain segments or shows only play once so, from time to time, we like to bring them back to be enjoyed again! Segments 1 & 2: Cleaning Carpets Segments 3: Bold Colors Segments 4: Dan’s Emporium of Audio Brilliance ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Automatic Center Punch There are a lot of tools that get ZERO fanfare! They’re not flashy. They’re not fun and exciting. They’re not powered by huge motors or batteries. But they do their job in an unassuming manner and move on to the next project. One of those is an automatic center punch. It’s a simple tool that is designed to quickly and easily pop a small divot in a surface ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Jewelry Box Makeover Paint is so remarkably transformative! With the right inspiration, your next project is just around the corner! We found the beautiful piece of furniture pictured below at an antique store. It was amazing, but WAY too expensive. Later we found a simple little jewelry box for $2. Much more in line with my pocket book! We snatched it up and with a little prep work, some taping, and ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Spring-Loaded Nail Set Sometimes you can’t fit a hammer and a nail set into a tight corner. Sometimes you just don’t want to use all that force to set your nails into the wood. In those instances, this simple, spring-loaded nail set is perfect! It’s very inexpensive and definitely something to have in your toolbox. Segments 2 and 3: Color of the Year with Jennifer Butler Design Benjamin Moore launched their ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 2 & 3: Direct-to-Metal Paint DTM paints, as the name suggests, are meant for application directly to metal surfaces. And yet, there are a vast number of rust inhibitive primers on the market. When is a DTM the right choice for a project and when is there a better option? We sit down with Dan Altena, the President of RepcoLite Paints to discuss! Segment 4: The Saw Stop Table Saw Anyone who’s ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 & 2: Importance of Good Design Good design is important not only in our homes, but also in our work places. Good design makes us want to shop at the places we shop and not dread going to work in the morning. To discuss how important design in, Jennifer Butler and Andy Yates of Jennifer Butler Design in Grand Rapids have dropped in. As always, we had a great time! Segments ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Natural Weed Killer Betsy is always on the hunt for ways to take care of garden problems without resorting to chemicals. We all know they work great, but then we have to be careful with pets and kids. The good news is that there are recipes for natural weed killer and pest repellants that actually work. Betsy tried them and they worked great…at least for what she did! Weed Killer 1 ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Color Consultation Review Betsy recently did a color consultation and that led to a conversation about how we tend to get an idea in our heads and don’t stop to think about other options. There’s a lot to be learned! Segment 2: Removing Wallpaper With a Pro! We’ve heard the horror stories when it comes to removing wallpaper. The dime sized pieces that take weeks to peel off. So we’ve invited ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 & 2: Paint For Front Doors Painting your front door is one of the best “bang for your buck” paint projects you can tackle! You’ll dramatically improve the curb appeal of your home and, best of all, you’ll do it in just a few hours and often for no more than a quart of paint! We mentioned a method for painting your front door on the show today. Here’s a simple ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Paint For Front Doors Nothing adds curb appeal like a great looking front door. And when it comes to front door paint, choosing the right one can make or break the project. No one wants their new paint to peel off in a couple weeks. Benjamin Moore has a great new front door paint called Aura Grand Entrance. It comes in a satin or high gloss and can be made in ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Jumping into Repairs We’ve probably all been there. It’s late and something in our home suddenly breaks. The washer. The dryer. The AC. You name it. And sometimes we are too timid to try and troubleshoot on our own. We’re afraid we don’t have the skills. But if we can do it, so can you. Start small and work from there! Segments 2 & 3: Choosing a Designer Sometimes, when it ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: History of Yankee Doodle Growing up, most of us learned a plethora of patriotic songs that we pulled out of our memories for the 4th of July. This year, we decided to look into the history of a childhood favorite, Yankee Doodle. Do you know what a Yankee Doodle Dandy is? The answer and story behind it may surprise you. Segments 2 & 3: Multi-Generational Living We’re hearing about it more ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Paint Organization We open the show talking about some crocheted water balloons Betsy has been working on for an upcoming golf outing. They’re very easy and quick to make. Check out the pattern and get some use out of these re-useable balloons. This segment REALLY isn’t about water balloons, but how to organize your paint so the next time you touch-up or repaint, it doesn’t turn out to be the wrong ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Wallpaper Border Removal Nightmare Segments 2 & 3: West End Appliances Segment 4: Deck Season ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Natural Mosquito Repellent We’ve started hearing it again: it’s going to be a bad year for mosquitos! And the thing is, not everyone wants to go around doused in a chemical bug repellent and not everyone can deal with the smell. With that said, there are some natural alternatives that may work just as well, if used correctly. It’s not good enough just to plant these. You have to release the ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Thermal Tracking or Ghosting A listener wrote in and described a strange situation in his home: dark shadowy spots in the corner of his ceiling. He wondered what was going on. Well, while it could be something as simple as actual shadows, or as frustrating as mold or mildew. . . there’s a good chance it’s something called Thermal Tracking or Ghosting. We discuss what that is and what you can ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 & 2: Ian Warnock, Lead Horticulturalist at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, has some GREAT ideas for themed gardens kids will love! Who wouldn’t want a pizza garden? Or a salsa garden? Or even a sensory garden? Ian also discusses some of the things going on this summer at Frederik Meijer Gardens, including the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden Un-Birthday Party. Segments 3 & 4: Fern the Bus Fern, the bus, ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 2: Selling a Home with Pets Sue and Ginger Prins from Sue Prins Group 5-Star Real Estate are in the studio with us, talking about some little things we pet owners can do to get our homes read to sell for top dollar! Segments 3 & 4: Bird Exclusion with Rose Pest Solutions David Popp and Dale Hodgson from Rose Pest Solutions are here to talk about birds. Yes, they’re fun to ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: Notre Dame’s Lead Roof Why the Area Around Notre Dame is Now Coated with Toxic Levels of Lead On the Roof of Notre Dame, Before It Burned Segments 2 & 3: All About Brushes with Larry Schwartz from Wooster Brushes can be confusing. There are so many options to choose from. Which one is right for which situation? Larry Schwartz from Wooster Brush Company joins us in the studio to cut ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 & 2: Mother’s Day With Dan’s Mom To celebrate Mother’s Day, we invited Dan’s mom to stop by and tell a few stories about Dan and tell us where she gets her decorating inspiration. The stories are something you won’t want to miss! Segment 3: Tessa & Tools It really is a family affair this week. Dan’s daughter, Tessa, job shadowed in the middle of the week. We gave her a ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segments 1 & 2: Most of us don’t like spending a lot of money on our homes if we don’t have to; especially if we’re selling it. But there are some high impact, low dollar things you can do inside and outside your home that will make you think “wow”! To help us with that, we are joined by realtors Sue Prins and Ginger Herman from Sue Prins 5 Star Real Estate. The ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1: 10 Things People With Clean Houses Always Do We recently came across an article from HGTV called “10 Things People With Clean Houses Always Do.” Some of these are things you may already do, but some of them may be things that have never crossed your mind. We were only able to cover a few but you can find the entire list here! Segments 2 & 3: Sara and Sun Pen ...
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On today’s show we talk with Brad Krause from Service Professor about the best time to put in a new air conditioner.  We’re also in the studio with Physical Therapist, Bill Winter to discuss some simple ways to stay safe (and un-injured!!) during those Spring clean-up projects. And before we call it quits for another week, we share one of our favorite projects of the year (so far!). Basically, we tested a number of methods ...
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Listen here: Segments 1 & 2: Cold Weather Painting We sit down with RepcoLite’s own Erick Lowing (outside sales rep, extraordinaire) and Kevin Hermann, Territory Representative from Benjamin Moore to talk about when is the right (and wrong time) to get outside and start those painting projects! Segments 3 & 4: The Children’s Healing Center We’re celebrating the Grand Opening of our NEW Broadmoor Ave. location in Grand Rapids and one of the ways we’re ...
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LISTEN HERE: Segment 1 & 2: Decorating a Baby Nursery Recently, we had a blogger get in touch with us. Her name is Sara Pen and she’s recently been in one of our stores as she tackles major changes to her home. She just finished her nursery and it is absolutely amazing! Sara has agreed to let us tag along for the rest of her home projects but first, let’s get to know this DIY ...
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Segment 1: Journey to 17th Street We think each of our stores has something that makes them unique. Each one has something that sets them apart from other paint stores, so we’ve decided to give each of them a turn in the spotlight throughout the year. And the logical place to start is with our “factory store.” The original RepcoLite. They not only have a great store staff, but a chemical lab, a process stain ...
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Segment 1: Wet Basements Now, spring is right around the corner and we’re just coming off a VERY soggy week. It seems like a great time to talk about wet basements. We highlight what to do prepare for when or if your basement gets wet. And if you want to buy a portable submersible pump just in case you DO end up with water, this one has great reviews and is under $50 on Amazon! ...
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Segment 1 Notes The paper we spoke about is Anaglypta Wallpaper. It’s a heavily textured paper that can be painted and faux-finished for a wide variety of creative results! Segment 2 & 3 Notes Holland Fire Marshall, Bret Groendyke, walks us through the label on a fire extinguisher, how to tell what it works best for, and how much area it will cover. Bret also remind everyone that even if you THINK the fire is ...
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This particular episode was recorded LIVE from the show floor at the 2019 West Michigan Home and Garden Show. We had some great guests stop by to talk about new products, cool programs, to answer questions, and to just generally chat. Segment 1: Innerseal for Ducts with Service Professor Tony Krause, Vice President of Service Professor and HVAC Manager, Jason Wiltjer, drop by to talk about a great new duct sealing product, Innerseal. It will ...
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On today’s show we tackle a number of paint myths that are always circulating. We also discuss food allergies with Dr. Vince Dubravec of Allergy/Asthma Specialists West Michigan. And before we go we talk about what you can expect to see at the upcoming Home and Garden Show! Listen here: ...
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Ok, so we all made it through a week of major winter storms AND the frigid Polar Vortex. now it’s going to rain! How is that possible?! As impossible as it may seem, it’s true. We got dumped on with snow and now we’re going to add warming and rain to the mix. And that may cause ice and water issues with our roofs. Because we’re concerned about the potential for leaks, we’re calling Matt ...
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For some reason, most of us associate tool belts with guys. And more specifically, construction workers. But did you know its origin is actually as a piece of female jewelry? Even back in the times of Ancient Rome, it was a piece of jewelry that served a purpose. And ladies, you can take a cue from Fendi and make it a fashion statement! And we’re lucky enough to have Jon DeGraaf, Owner and President of ...
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We’ve been building a lot of things for home shows recently. And it seems as though we are constantly running out to get new screws. Either we don’t have the right size, or they aren’t working the way we need them too, or we just plain don’t have enough of what we need. It’s a bit maddening! In our first segment, we’ll dig in to what we’ve recently learned about screws. We’ll talk about the different ...
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Old homes can surprise us. Sure, buying one can sometimes involves some work to get it to the condition we prefer, but the benefits to doing so can be huge! They’re full of character, timeless beauty, and they’re often constructed of superior building materials! On this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, we’re in the studio with Sharon Ferraro, the Historic Preservation Coordinator of Kalamazoo. She’s a wealth of information and will talk about ...
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With the new year generally comes New Year’s Resolutions. These resolutions come in all different forms. Some people resolve to lose weight. Or to eat more healthy. Or to go to the gym more. Or to be more organized. And while we may not be able to help you with the first three, we can certainly help you with the last one. Especially if you are talking about the dreaded pantry. It’s kind of like ...
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During the holidays a lot of people go to the movies. We get sucked in by the action and suspense. But watch closely. If you do, you may notice that some integral parts of tools are missing. What good is an air nailer without a hose and air source? We’ve watched the movies and now we’re going to pick them apart. And, with the new year approaching, you might be thinking it’s the year to ...
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So, if you are a child of the late 50’s or early 60’s, it’s likely you’ll remember the aluminum Christmas tree. But, if you were born after 1965, it’s entirely likely you’ve only seen pictures of them (or maybe in an antique store, if you’re lucky). The reason for this is the 1965 debut of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Yes, that’s right, Charlie Brown single-handedly brought down the aluminum Christmas tree industry. We’ve got the ...
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Now, who among us really likes waiting in lines? And who thinks of going to the paint store for their cleaning supplies? We’re guessing not many people. But the truth is, RepcoLite has great cleaning supplies that many people don’t even know about. And the line is usually a lot short so you’ll save tons of time! We’re going to go through some of the cleaning supplies you can pick up next time you’re in ...
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OK, now how often is there something we pass every day that we don’t think twice about? For us, the Hackley & Hume Homes were just such a place. We had passed them a number of times and thought they were cool but didn’t give it another thought…until this week. Forget what you THINK you know about Victorian homes. These surpass that in leaps and bounds. And, right now, they are all decked out for ...
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So, there are some common tools that come to mind when people think of painting; brushes, roller covers, trays and liners, etc. But did you know there’s a whole other group of tools that will save you time and money? We’ve got a list of items you’ll want to consider the next time you paint. And we’ve been hearing chatter about people closing heat vents in unused rooms to save money. That got us wondering ...
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Today, we’re going to kick off the show by talking about a project that Betsy has been working furiously on (since she procrastinated) and some of the lessons she learned. And while you may not being doing the same project, the lessons are universal. We’re also going to walk you through some Thanksgiving prep. And yes, you can find some of these things on the internet, but we’re putting our very unique Home Improvement Show ...
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On today’s show we talk with Rob Cackowski from Heritage Fireplace and Design about alternate sources of heat for winter: wood stoves, gas stoves, and pellet stoves. Which one is right for you? Rob goes through all of the pros and cons to help you decide. We also talk with Mike Zamarron from Home Repair Services of Kent County. The topic? Squares. A simple tool with a lot of functionality! (Check out the pics below ...
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A lot of us have basements clad in 1970’s paneling. The rooms are dark and dated and many of us would like a change! Fortunately, making that change is easier than you might think. Today we’ll tell you everything you need to know to get started! We also interview Holland’s Fire Marshal, Bret Groendyke about the Great Fires of 1871. Chicago burned, but did you know that Holland did as well? Finally, Grand Rapids has ...
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It’s getting colder and we still may have exterior projects to try to wrap up. When is too late to paint outside? What are the concerns? We cover all of that and more in today’s episode. We also discuss allergies with Dr. Vince Dubravec of Allergy/Asthma Specialists West Michigan and get the scoop on how to keep mice out of our homes from David Popp of Rose Pest Solutions! Listen here: ...
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Today’s show is all about safety! Well, except the parts that are about caulk and spalling brick.  Technically, those parts are not about safety. But that doesn’t make them any less interesting or valuable! For example, if you’ve ever wondered why we use caulk on a paint project, or what the 30-year, 40-year, and 50-year references on each tube mean, then this segment is for you! And if you’ve got a brick chimney or any ...
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Last week we talked about the Home Repair Services Home Maintenance class. We actually attended the class and learned a TON of things. They talked briefly about furnace filters and changing them…and that got us thinking. What happens if we DON’T change the filter? Is it like not taking the lint from the lint trap in our dryer and it could start a fire? In the first segment, Brad Krause, President of Service Professor, stops ...
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A while back, Betsy got involved with the restoration of the Van Raalte Farm in Holland. She worked with Carolina Marquis to choose wallpaper and paint for the main level, as well as paint colors for the exterior. It is an ongoing project and a true labor of love for everyone involved. In the first two segments we talk to Steve Zwiep, the City of Holland Parks Supervisor. He has overseen the ongoing restoration of ...
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Today’s a little different. We sit down with Jeff Larabel to talk about an event he’s organizing: The Second Annual Ruth Larabel Yahtzee Tournament! It takes place on September 8 and all the proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Grief Counseling Program at Gilda’s Club, a Grand Rapids organization that provides free emotional healthcare to children, adults, families, and friends on any kind of cancer journey or those grieving the death of someone in their ...
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Today we sit down and talk carpet cleaning with the experts at Fibercare Carpet and Rug Cleaning in Jenison. It’s a fun interview and they fill us in on how to clean wine, blood, urine and all kinds of other common spills out of our carpets! Formulas and cleaning instructions they discuss on air are included below in the notes! Also, a stiff paint brush has almost no practical use at all! Fortunately, there’s often ...
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In this episode, we sit down the “Ultimate American Picker”, Steve Norris.  I’ve known Steve for years and while he calls himself a bit of a pack rat, there’s no denying that he has made some seriously brilliant finds at auctions, estate sales, and garage sales. How does he find these items? How does he know what’s worth picking up and what should be ignored? Common sense! We also talk with Joel Ruiter from Home ...
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It’s largely been a dry summer. And while the landscaping at Dan’s house is doing remarkably well, the landscaping at Betsy’s is shriveling and dying. The difference? Drip irrigation! Today, we sit down with Aaron Katerberg from Grapids Irrigation to talk about some DIY solutions you can implement today! We’ll also be talking with RepcoLite Sales Rep, Erick Lowing, about some common paint problems he runs into from day to day. In fact, the topics he plans ...
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On today’s show we are doing something a little different. You see, before we had this show, we had a podcast. And for one of our podcasts, we interviewed Dave and Dan Altena, the former and current President of RepcoLite. It was a GREAT interview but it was an hour long…and that’s too long for this show. So we’ve decided to share with you the first part of the interview. It covers how RepcoLite came ...
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This week we talk to the Wall Doctor and get tips to make our your next drywall project go more smoothly. If you’ve ever hung your own drywall, you know there are little things that can make the project frustrating. Today, you can listen to an expert spill the beans on everything he does to make sure every project goes well! We’re also in the studio with Brad Krause from Service Professor to talk about ...
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Today’s show highlights a project that we think has tremendous potential! So many of us have brick houses that look and feel a little dated. They’ve got that 70’s or 80’s brick and we just don’t know what to do to breathe new life into it. Well, if you’re an HGTV aficionado, you’ve probably heard of German Schmear (or Smear). It’s a great way to update that old brick. However, it’s a bit labor intensive ...
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On today’s show we talk about painting Oak cabinets. It’s not a complicated project, but the big question always revolves around the open graining: what do you do about it so you can get a great look on your finished cabinets? We talk about that as well as the riveting topic of paint warranties. (And as boring as that may sound, it’s important to understand exactly what a warranty will cover. You’ll be surprised how ...
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Today’s show covers a wide variety of topics. We start by discussing the long-term benefits of wool carpet (as well as the sheep that make it possible). From there, we discuss a confusing topic among homeowners: solid color stain. What is it? Why use it? How is it different from paint? We dig into all of that and then, Betsy goes all “crafty” and has a great project using solid color stain. Finally, we wrap ...
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Benjamin Moore’s Scuff-X is one of the most unique paint products we’ve ever run across. It’s not every day that we get this excited about a product. But Scuff-X is the real deal! Today we sit down in the studio with Kevin Hermann from Benjamin Moore to talk about Scuff-X as it’s first birthday approaches! Listen Here: Show notes for episode 062: Segment 1: The Wall Doctor After doing a segment a couple weeks ago ...
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Popcorn ceilings hit the scene in the 1950’s and took off in popularity. However, just like other fads and fashions (bellbottoms, we’re looking at you), the beauty and appeal wore thin before too long! But, many of our homes have that cottage cheese stuff on the ceilings and we don’t know what to do to get it off! Well, we’ve got some ideas on that…. Show notes for episode 060: Segment 1: Popcorn Ceilings No ...
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We recently had a customer who really had a strange paint color problem. In the can, the color looked right. On the wall, it was remarkably different. She was frustrated and confused: What was going on? More importantly, what should she do? We tackle that paint question and many others on today’s Home Improvement Show. Show notes for episode 059: Segment 1 and 2: Beautiful Lawns with Jan Meeuwsen Jan Meeuwsen from De Bruyn Seed ...
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When we think of gardening, we think of things like container gardening, pest resistance gardening, and vegetable gardening. We don’t necessarily think of gardening with and for our kids. But why not?! It gets them interested at an early age and it gets them out in the fresh air. It will be something they look forward to every year. And they will be able to see the fruits of their labor. Listen here: Show notes for episode ...
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Today we sit down with Holland’s new Fire Marshal, Bret Groendyke to talk about fire safety. According to recent statistics, the number of fire deaths among people 60 and over is rising. We discuss why that could be happening and what we can do about it. We also talk about how to troubleshoot a leak under a kitchen sink, and how to paint a metal fence so you have perfect results every time! Listen here: ...
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This show has a little of everything! We talk about GFCIs and why those little buttons should actually be used. We talk about a couple new electrical gadgets. And one will save you money if you have kids! And because Dan needs his own segment, we have a great one called Use With Caution. And finally, we are airing the last segment from last week because it didn’t air due to technical difficulties. It was ...
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Today we interview Joel Ruiter from Home Repair Services in Grand Rapids. It’s a remarkably non-profit organization who’s mission is to help homeowners of all income brackets maintain and improve their homes! We’ll also be talking with RepcoLite’s president, Dan Altena, regarding a paint question that came in on our Facebook page. And finally, we’ll wrap up with a little decorating segment built around our 3rd President, Thomas Jefferson! Listen here: Show notes for episode ...
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Today’s show starts with an introduction to a remarkably unique service! ECO-190 Degrees will clean out your garbage bins on a regular basis! It’s quick, simple, inexpensive, and will have your garage smelling rosy year-round! We’ll also be discussion how you can easily paint over those bright colors your kids wanted on their bedroom walls when they were 9; some of the must-have painting tools you . . . well, need to have; and finally, ...
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We’ve all been there. You love your home, but there are some things you’d like to change. Your family is outgrowing the house you live in. A little more elbow room and an extra bathroom would really help the morning chaos.  And then there’s the maintenance. All the little things that keep piling up. And you are left with the question: do you renovate or just move? You can sell your house, but will you ...
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Today we debut a new segment that we’ll repeat from time to time: Betsy’s Toolbox! Betsy is a tool geek and she’s always eager to make recommendations about the best tools to use. Today, in her inaugural Toolbox segment, she leads in with unique story about a farmer who had a cow…. We’ll also be talking with builder, Bob Snowden about a historic shortage of new homes we’re experiencing right now. That and much more! ...
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There are all kinds of reasons we hesitate to jump into home improvement projects. Sometimes we lack the tools for a certain project. Sometimes we lack the knowledge to accomplish certain tasks. And sometimes, we’re just plain scared to even try. The thought of the unknown and our lack of confidence holds up back from great things. But the time has come! Get off the couch and give it a try. You might be amazed ...
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Some weeks are busier than others! This week we just had too much going and were unable to get to the studio to crank out a new episode. So, instead, we’ve put together Volume 1 of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show Greatest Hits! On this episode, we revisit some of our favorite segments from the past 48 weeks! Listen here: Show notes for episode 049: Segment 1: Bidets for America! Well, this segment has been ...
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Everyone has to start somewhere! If there’s one thing we could say to everybody out there it would be that. Nobody is born with the innate ability to build or fix or paint or DIY like there’s no tomorrow! It’s learned over time, through experience. Today we interview Bob Snowden from Snowden Builders in Grandville about exactly that! If you don’t have the confidence to jump into that next project, give this episode a listen! ...
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Hiding underneath our carpet (in many of our homes at least!) are beautiful hardwood floors. Or, at least they could one day be beautiful! All it takes is a little elbow grease, a little commitment, and a little know-how and you can turn those old floors into conversation pieces in your home! On today’s show we tell you the basics of what a hardwood floor refinishing project looks like. We also highlight a number of ...
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Old homes can surprise us. Sure, buying one can sometimes involves some work to get it to the condition we prefer, but the benefits to doing so can be huge! They’re full of character, timeless beauty, and they’re often constructed of superior building materials! On this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, we’re in the studio with Sharon Ferraro, the Historic Preservation Coordinator of Kalamazoo. She’s a wealth of information and will talk about ...
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We all think that because we live in a quiet neighborhood, our home is safe. But there are always a few things we can do to make it just a bit safer. Besides, a fire doesn’t care what neighborhood you live in. And breaking into a house just might be easier  on a quiet street than a busy one. Joe Kuhns will help make our homes more safe and make us more confident. Listen here: ...
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Did you know that wallpaper not only could kill, but quite literally has killed? In a strange historical story from wallpaper’s checkered past, we learn about one of the most bizarre episodes in decorating history. We’re also in the studio with custom home builder, Bob Snowden to discuss how we can make the best choices when it comes to hiring a contractor! Listen here: Show notes for episode 044: Segments 1 & 2: We Talk ...
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Selling your home in the winter seems counter intuitive. Everyone waits until Spring, right? That’s the perfect time to list, right? Well, if you want to sell the house quickly and for the highest dollar possible, Winter might actually be your best bet! Roger Allan from Keller Williams Lakeshore Realty is with us and he makes a compelling case for listing now! We’re also joined by Renee Huff from The Lighting Corner and she’s going ...
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Some episode are a lot of fun. Others are packed with information. This one is both! On episode 41 of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, we cover everything from important lead safe paint information to the hilarious (and informative) discussion about the benefits of bidets. It’s definitely an episode with something for everyone! Listen here: Show notes for episode 042: Segment 1: Lead Paint & the Healthy Homes Coalition Statistics show that Grand Rapids is ...
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Some episode are a lot of fun. Others are packed with information. This one is both! On episode 41 of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, we cover everything from important lead safe paint information to the hilarious (and informative) discussion about the benefits of bidets. It’s definitely an episode with something for everyone! Listen here: Show notes for Episode 041: Segment 1: Painting over Oil and Lead Paint We received a question from a customer ...
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This week we cover a number of interesting topics. One of which is a concept that Dan thinks is brilliant: a 15-minute home improvement regimen! Yes, it sounds a little goofy, but you will be amazed at the amount of work you can accomplish by just spending 15 minutes a night working on it. It’s painless, quick, almost fun. And if you do it a few nights in a row, you’ll be blown away by ...
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Paint dilemmas happen all the time! To pros and to DIYers. No matter how much experience we may have, we all make a mistake from time to time. Well, today we go over a number of those common mishaps and give you everything you need to know to avoid them! Listen here: Show notes for Episode 039: Segment 1: Common Paint Problems When we tackle a paint project there are often little mistakes we all ...
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Home theaters are becoming popular areas in homes. And while not everyone can have a designated theater room, it’s possible to have the same experience in your family room. It just takes the right equipment and the right paint to create the perfect atmosphere. And if you aren’t quite ready to jump on the home theater bandwagon, don’t worry! We’ll give you things to think about to create the perfect atmosphere in every room, every ...
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It’s time for a reality check–Christmas is just over a week away. That means even more chaos and stress than usual. Are you thinking about ways to prevent a fire in your home and what to do if there IS one? Probably not. But you should be. Many people think that Christmas trees start most house fires around the holidays. Surprisingly, that is not the case. The most common cause of house fires is something ...
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Christmas time can be very stressful! Not only does life seem to be more chaotic this time of year, but there are gifts to be bought and that alone causes panic. What do you get for someone who has everything? What if they don’t like what you give them? Are you just wasting your money? In the spirit of giving, we thought we would help make everyone’s shopping a little easier by giving you our ...
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Kitchen renovations are expensive. But if they’re done right, they’re worth it. Just make sure you do it right! Today we talk about some kitchen trends that always work! We also dig into the creepy, crawly topic of head lice. Sure, we didn’t want to talk about the, but if you’ve got school-age children, there’s a good chance you’ll be dealing with the stress of head lice in a classroom. When that happens, it’s good ...
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Every day seems to bring new scam and fraud alerts. The news outlets tell us to be careful with our credit cards and identity. Facebook is full of posts warning us about some new scam that has us on edge every time we go to our inbox. That’s why we contacted the Holland Department of Public Safety. They will help us know what to look for, how to stay safe while out Christmas shopping, and ...
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Thanksgiving is just days away and soon our homes will be filled with guests. For some people, this is no big deal; their homes are always clean. For others, panic is setting in as they realize their house is nowhere near ready for company and probably won’t be unless they pull some college type all nighters. But don’t worry! We’ve got some quick decluttering ideas that can be done in a weekend and some cleaning ...
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Today’s episode is largely about getting you ready for the holidays and that dreaded four-letter “s” word…..snow! We have some projects that you should be getting done BEFORE snow comes to stay and some gear to keep you warm once it does. We’ve also got some Dan and Betsy “tested and approved” snow tools that will make life a whole lot easier when the white stuff piles up! Listen here: Show notes for episode 032: ...
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Today’s episode is a bit of a trip down memory lane! After a very busy week (and a very successful Designer Event), we just didn’t have time to do a show the way we wanted to. So we pulled 3 of our favorite segments from the past and added them to a brand new, very informative interview with Steve Rozema from Northgate Appliance. Steve walks us through the pros and cons of all the different ...
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On today’s episode we cover a lot of ground. If you’ve ever struggled to get the perfect stain match for a project, or have been disappointed in the past when you just grabbed a color off the shelf, we’ll tell you what you can do to make sure that you get a perfect match everytime! We’ll also introduce you to a brand new paint from Benjamin Moore that actually has to be seen to be ...
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Halloween is just around the corner and so we thought we’d take a little time and share one of our favorite guests of all time with you! Patty Meyer from the Felt Mansion joins us and talks about some of the real-life ghost phenomena she’s experienced. It’s fun. It’s incredibly interesting. And honestly, it’s a little creepy! We also are in the studio with RepcoLite’s own Rick Wierenga and he’s dishing out all kinds of ...
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There is so much stuff on today’s episode! Fun stories about what it’s like to be short, as well as discussions about great fall projects that will help you save money (and keep mice OUT wall winter long!) On top of that, we discuss Benjamin Moore’s big announcement regarding the Color of the Year for 2018. And most importantly, we talk about HOW to use that color in your own decorating! Listen here: Show notes ...
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Personally, I love the appliance episodes because they can be so practical. In today’s first segment we talk about common appliance repairs that anyone can do! And you’re not going to believe the money you’ll be able to save! Listen here: Show notes for Episode 027: Segment 1: Common DIY Appliance Repairs In this segment, we sit down with Steve Rozema from Northgate Appliance and we talk about common appliance problems and the simple DIY ...
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Lacquers, Polyurethanes, Shellacs, and more! There are so many finishes that can be classified under the broad heading of “clear coat”. Which one is right for your project? Which one is going to give you the most durability? It’s honestly not as confusing as it may seem! Today we clear up the confusion and give you everything you need to know to make the best choice! Listen here: Show notes for episode 026: Segment 1: ...
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Every time Dan goes to buy a refrigerator, he makes a critical mistake that MANY people make. He starts by going to the store and looking at all the available options. He picks a fridge he just can’t live without, then goes home to measure the space. This is the point where he is overwhelming disappointed. The fridge he has chosen will never, in a million years, fit in the space he has available. He ...
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A few weeks ago we talked about the DIY way to clean moss and algae off your roof, with a few cautions. A phone call we received prompted us to look for some sort of contractor who could possibly do the cleaning. That’s how we found the guys who do “Roof Shampooing.”  The best part is, they don’t have to use chemicals…including bleach. Their product is eco-friendly and biodegradable. And it saves you climbing on ...
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It’s getting colder and we’re heading into sweatshirts and jeans weather, football, beautiful fall colors, and all the other great things that autumn brings. But with the dropping temperatures raise a lot of questions about exterior painting: when is it officially too cold to paint outside? We’ve got the answer to that and much more in this episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show! Listen here: Show notes for episode 023: Segment 1: Bold Kitchen ...
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We live in Michigan where our basements can be a little scary; especially if you have an older house! There are lots of things that can be done to remedy that. But perhaps the simplest thing to do is to simply paint the floor. It’s amazing how much a coat of paint can brighten a dreary basement. We’ll help give you the confidence to tackle your floor this weekend! Listen here: Show notes for episode ...
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We’ve all flipped through magazines and seen amazing kitchens. We dream of something similar in our homes. Then we stop to realize the cost that could be incurred with something like that. But don’t worry! We’ve got some budget-friendly kitchen decor ideas that will let you have an enviable kitchen this weekend! Listen here: Show notes for episode 021: Segment 1 and 2: Is It Time For A Tankless Water Heater? Have you ever considered ...
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Our ceilings are often like that one guy in the office. The quiet one who everyone forgets to invite to the party. Don’t let that happen in your home! Sure, your walls are having fun trying on new colors and looking good, but don’t leave your ceilings out! In this episode, we talk with Designer Kim Scott to talk about ceilings and some interesting ways to use them to make a statement! Listen here: Show ...
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Paint projects shouldn’t be daunting. Or complicated. Most of the time, any struggles we’ve ever had come from not knowing a few tricks that the professionals know. Today we talk about a number of ways to get beautiful results whenever you use masking tape! Listen here: Show notes for episode 019: Segment 1: Furniture Refinishing Some people may have heard this segment before, but Kim DeBoer had such good information. She told us where to ...
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Listen here: Show notes for episode 018: Segment 1: Bald Spots Around Trees? Simple Answers! Dan has a shade tree in his yard that becomes a dirt pile by the end of summer. And we're pretty sure he's not the only one with this problem. Matt Bakker, from Landscape Design Services, joins us in the studio to explain why this happens and what can be done about it. Segment 2: Get Creative With Chalkboard Paint ...
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Mossy roofs aren’t just an eyesore! That moss up there is actively breaking down your shingles and shortening the lifespan of one of the biggest investments we make in our homes! We’ll tell you how to deal with it safely and effectively. That and much more in this episode! Listen here: Show notes for episode 017: Segment 1: Busting Common Wallpaper Myths! Segment 2: Ask the Realtor -- What Should I Fix Before Listing My ...
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We hear it quite often in our stores, “Oh, I don’t know how to decorate or choose color.” That usually happens after someone has had a bad experience and ended up with nothing but frustration. We are here to help you on the path to decorating success with three simple things to get you started! Listen here: Show notes for episode 016: Segment 1: 3 Surefire Decorating Fails! We've all heard of Pinterest fails, but ...
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Lighting and Paint Colors with Beth Maguire from Benjamin Moore Back to School Supplies — Home Improvement Edition! Waterblock: An Inexpensive Fix for Wet Basements New Tech for Greener Lawns with Grapids Irrigation Listen here: Show notes for episode 015: Segment 1: Lighting and Color Have you ever picked a color that seemed perfect while you were in the paint store, only to get it home and find it was totally wrong?! You are not ...
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We know, it’s something people don’t normally talk about in social circles. It’s a topic left for the privacy of our own homes. But we’re breaking the mould and asking all the toilet questions you may have pondered. Mark DeVisser from The Plummer Is Here stops by to answer our questions and walk us through the options when buying a new toilet. The subject matter makes us uncomfortable, but the information is worth the discomfort! ...
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Painting your front door is easily one of the best “bang for your buck” projects you can tackle around the home. It adds huge curb appeal to your home and, best of all, it’s quick and inexpensive! And yet, we’re often intimidated by the project! We can’t find the right color and we’re nervous about making it look good. Well, don’t worry! It’s easy. And we’ll tell you everything you need to know! Listen here: ...
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Yes, this is a Home Improvement Show, but really, how important is a well-decorated and maintained home if every member of our family isn’t there to enjoy it with us? At RepcoLite, we love painting projects. We love decorating. We love a good, “from the ground-up” remodeling project. But none of those things matter when compared to the safety and well-being of the people in our lives. On today’s show we sit down with Joe ...
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Looking at a scuffed wall, just days after it has been painted, is frustrating! Benjamin Moore is changing all that with a brand new paint that’s almost magical in resisting what life throws at it. We put it through it’s paces and were amazed!  We’ll tell you what the product is, why it’s unique, and how we tested it. That and much more on today’s episode: Listen here: Show notes for episode 011: Segment 1: ...
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Finding the perfect color for your next project doesn’t have to be complicated! You don’t have to stand in front of the color display for hours looking at 1000’s of colors. There’s a simple process we’re going to tell you about that will help you cut the time you spend looking in half! That and much more on today’s episode: Listen here: ...
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It’s that time of year again! The time when we want to spend all available time outdoors, enjoying everything Michigan has to offer. There are water adventures, camping, sunsets, hiking, and ticks. Yes, ticks! It is going to be another prevalent year for natures little vampires! But don’t think your best conceived summer plan is in peril just yet. David Popp from Rose Pest Solutions is going to help all of us deal with these ...
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Sometimes we look at our homes and don’t know where to begin. The kitchen is a little outdated. Maybe the bathroom needs work. Sometimes we see all that and we find ourselves not sure how to get started. The project just seems too big. Well, if that sounds familiar, Patty Meyer, Director of the Felt Estate near Saugatuck has some inspiring advice for you! That and much more on today’s episode: Listen here: Show notes ...
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Outdoor living spaces are big right now! They’re exciting ways to expand your home, your entertaining space, and make the most out of some of our beautiful Michigan summer weather. Today we talk with Rob Cackowski from Heritage Fireplace and Design Center ALL about outdoor living spaces and what you need to do to create the perfect one for your home! That and much more on today’s episode: Listen here: Show notes for episode 007: ...
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Home staging. We’ve all heard about it, but how many of us know how to do it? On today’s episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show, we list 5 simple steps that will help you make your home as appealing to new buyers as possible. We also discuss the best colors to choose when painting your home for resale. Do you go with neutrals and look like every other house out there? Or do you ...
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Today, we sit down in the studio with Kim DeBoer and discuss the adventures of refinishing furniture. Kim talks about some of her best experiences and the joys of taking something old and unwanted and turning it into a centerpiece in your home! That and more in today’s episode of the RepcoLite Home Improvement Show! Listen here: Show notes for episode 005: Segment 1: The Adventure of Furniture Refinishing Shopping for furniture to refinish or ...
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Vinyl siding was supposed to last forever. But . . . it doesn’t. At least the color doesn’t. After a while, houses with vinyl siding can start to look tired, faded, boring . . . old. Well, Benjamin Moore’s Revive is a paint specifically made for vinyl siding. It sticks remarkably well and is available in a range of over 300 vinyl safe colors! It’s definitely worth a look if you’d like to change the ...
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Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is purple. Yeah. And we’re hearing a lot of questions in the store about how in the world to decorate with purple. Today, we’re on the phone with Hannah Yeo from Benjamin Moore. She has a TON of great color information. It’s easily one of the most interesting interviews we’ve done so far. If you have any interest in decorating with color (purple or otherwise) give this a listen! ...
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In this episode, we speak with Dave Stegink from ABI Home Inspection Services about the #1 issue he finds when he inspects a house. Chances are, these things (at least some of them) are happening in your home right now! What are they and how do you find them? We cover all of that and more! Listen now: Show notes for episode 002: Segment 1: #1 Issue Discovered by Home Inspectors Dave Stegink is in ...
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It’s Spring! At least mostly…. And there is no better time to clean your deck and get it ready for the season. In this episode, we talk all about what it takes to get that deck cleaned and ready for stain. We also talk with Rose Pest Solutions about a common outdoor pest: mosquitoes. That and much more on this inaugural episode! Listen now: Shownotes for episode 001: Segment 1: Getting Your Deck Ready for ...
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