ASK THE INSPECTOR: There are different ways to heat crawlspace

QUESTION: Our addition is cold and we need help! The original part of the house has a full basement but the addition has only a crawlspace beneath. There is a two-foot by four-foot opening between the two underground spaces. The . . .

Posted: 2010-02-13

Look to insulation for a quieter suite

But ensure noise-damping materials allowed by condo board

QUESTION — Can you give me any advice on how to sound-proof a shared wall in a condominium? Part of the wall is concrete and another part of the same wall is drywall. Thank you. Debbie Smith ANSWER — Preventing noise . . .

Posted: 2020-10-16

Getting a handle on a long-awaited project

All fellow homeowners will agree that a house is an ongoing commitment. And despite any desire to make esthetic changes, maintenance often trumps renovation or redecoration. After all, there is only so much money to go around, and even the . . .

Posted: 2024-12-21

Removing nicotine stains a cinch

Question: I became the owner of a blond wooden china cabinet and table. They are beautiful; unfortunately the previous owners smoked heavily in the house! There is a thick layer of nicotine all over both pieces. Do you have a . . .

Posted: 2016-06-04

Renos not always as simple as they seem

Potential project obstacles can be hard to predict

There are repeat clients who have kept me extremely busy throughout the years. So much so, I sometimes forget about certain projects, and how many have ultimately been completed. One of these projects came to mind the other day, while I . . .

Posted: 2018-11-17

Offbeat tomatoes add wow factor

I bet that when most  people hear the word tomato, a large, red, globe-shaped fruist is the first image that comes to mind. But that stereotypical description doesn't account for the huge array of colours, shapes and sizes available. Thanks to the . . .

Posted: 2010-05-15

CONNE OLIVER: Bedroom retreat perfect Mother's Day gift

Even though Mother's Day is still a month away, I wanted to get you inspired early to surprise mom this year with a bedroom makeover. Moms do so much for everyone else that they rarely pamper themselves. A fresh, relaxing bedroom . . .

Posted: 2010-04-03

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Lots of reasons for attic and roof leaks

QUESTION: I have been in the roofing business for many years as an owner of Dr. Roof, and I have a concern where I would like your opinion. With such an extended period of extremely cold temperatures, combined with heavy . . .

Posted: 2014-02-22

SOLUTIONS: Make turkey stock like grandma's

QUESTION: I have leftover turkey and I don't want to waste it. Please tell me how to make homemade turkey stock like my grandma used to make. Thanks, Melinda (Warren) ANSWER: Great question! There are hundreds of variations for making homemade . . .

Posted: 2013-12-28

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Attic access proves height of frustration

QUESTION: We have a 22-year-old house in Whyteridge that has no inside attic access. It has a small vented trap door on the top side wall. Our house is a two-storey and I want to get into the attic. The . . .

Posted: 2010-10-16