168: The Case for Historic Windows | Scott Sidler & Stacy Grinsfelder
In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about original basement windows—save them or start fresh? They weigh the pros and cons of restoration versus replacement, and why there's often wiggle room instead of a clear-cut answer. Then, the tables turn as Daniel puts Stacy, and special guest Scott Sidler, in the hot seat to talk about their new book, The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy Efficiency and Old Windows. While they share a few behind-the-scenes stories from the long-distance co-writing process, the real heart of the conversation lies in the book's core message: keeping old windows isn't just a sentimental choice. It's a smart, sustainable one. Together, they unpack common myths about window performance, dive into the rarely explored (or understood!) concept of embodied carbon, and explain why understanding your actual utility usage matters more than chasing flashy energy claims. Backed by hard data and surprising research findings, the book demonstrates that old windows have the potential to meet or even exceed the energy efficiency of many modern replacements, sometimes without a full restoration. From simple upgrades to complete rehabs, the book offers a range of practical solutions designed to help homeowners and pros make informed, ethical, and budget-conscious decisions that prioritize preservation and performance. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - It's almost sold out! Napisan Laundry Disinfectant Buy the book: The Case for Historic Windows: The Truth About Energy Efficiency and Old Windows Enter to win a signed copy of The Case for Historic Windows by Scott Sidler & Stacy Grinsfelder
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167: Progress, Priorities, and Other Wins
In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Daniel and Stacy start by revisiting their favorite takeaways from the Lustron House interview, including why metal walls are both brilliant and bonkers, in the very best way. Then, Stacy dives into the beautifully controlled chaos of preparing Blake Hill House for its next chapter. The only thing multiplying faster than boxes is the list of things left to do. Meanwhile, Daniel leans into the satisfying rhythm of repair and maintenance, restoring light fixtures for his resale shop, and chasing the elusive dream of the whitest whites with a new favorite cleaning product. Finally, they reflect on productivity and priorities, and the importance of staying connected when life feels like one big to-do list. This episode is a reminder that progress isn’t always linear and tidy, and that’s okay. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today. Mentioned in this Episode Napisan Laundry Disinfectant Rub n Buff Metallic Wax Finish
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166: Lustron House Love
In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel tackle a relatable question: What's the deal with tiny closets in old houses, and how can homeowners maximize storage? They offer tips, commiseration, and a few creative workarounds. Then, if you've been waiting for a deep dive into Lustron living, this is the episode. Stacy chats with Laura, proud owner of a Lustron home. These prefabricated, all-metal houses were born out of the post–World War II housing shortage and designed as a modern, low-maintenance solution for families in need of fast, affordable housing. Laura shares what it's really like to live in one of these rare architectural time capsules. From magnetic walls and steel cabinets to the practicalities of maintenance, she has embraced "space age" living with appreciation and delight. Laura's experience offers a firsthand look at why Lustron homes still captivate preservationists, old house lovers, and anyone who appreciates the quirkiest house in their neighborhood. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake - Don't miss out! There are only three spots left. Ruby Space Triangles closet space savers Bonus Episode: Post-War Housing Solutions and Levittown Minisode: More About Lustron Homes and an Emotional Land Bank Story National Lustron Map - Find and Research Lustron Homes
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165: Two Deadlines and a Baby
In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Daniel dives into the deeply satisfying experience of helping friends prepare their home for a new baby. Left unsupervised while his friends were at the hospital, Daniel organized the house with gusto—leaving the new parents a little more surprised than planned. He reflects on what worked, what didn’t, and why the whole experience might just turn into a book someday. Then, Stacy talks about gearing up for the big move, including renting a POD, packing up her historic house, and tackling the project mostly on her own. It’s a lively conversation about organized chaos, hard deadlines, and the universal truth that babies don’t care about your to-do list. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor this show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today.
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164: Demystifying Linseed Paint (Again!)
In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Michiel Brouns of Brouns & Co. sets the record straight on linseed oil paint. From its surprising shelf life to why "thin to win" is the golden rule, Michiel unpacks everything you thought you knew—and didn't—about this traditional finish. Stacy, Daniel, and Michiel discuss proper application, ongoing maintenance, brushes that won't let you down, as well as how linseed paint stacks up against modern coatings in terms of cost, durability, and environmental impact. True Tales From Old Houses first explored linseed oil paint back in Episode #51, and now Stacy and Daniel are revisiting the topic with fresh insights, guided by listener-generated questions. It's a myth-busting, info-packed episode for anyone serious about preservation, sustainability, or just getting paint to stick. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS If you love True Tales From Old Houses as much as we love making it, please consider supporting the small businesses that sponsor our show—they help keep these stories (and our old house shenanigans) alive! Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - Learn everything you need to know to restore your wood windows. For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Repaint Studios The Repaint Tray from Repaint Studios is the first reusable silicone paint tray liner and lid. The Repaint Tray's air-tight lid keeps your paint fresh for weeks. Use the coupon code truetales10 to save 10% off your order. Old House Hub from My Old House Fix - An exclusive online community that connects passionate old house owners and enthusiasts with experts and service providers. Join for expert advice, valuable resources, and a supportive community. Use the coupon code truetales for a free one-year membership. Mentioned in this Episode Learn more about the Wood Window Workshop at Silver Lake. Spotify Playlist: Frank Lloyd Wright's Record Collection Episode #51: Desmystifying Linseed Oil Paint with Natalie from Earth + Flax Blog Article: Spontaneous Combustion Safety and DIY Brouns & Co (North America) website and Instagram Brouns & Co (UK) website and Instagram
True Tales From Old Houses is a light-hearted, entertaining, and educational show for lovers of old houses and buildings, DIYers, history buffs, and restoration and preservation junkies.
Available weekly, hosts Stacy Grinsfelder and Daniel Kanter share personal project updates, listener Q&A, and interviews with engaging old house owners, restoration professionals, and craftspeople.
Ireland