ASK THE INSPECTOR: There's a solution for a leaky stack

QUESTION: I appreciate your articles and as a senior with minimal building skills, I read with intent to monitor potential problems. Your previous article about leaking in the attic helped because I experienced something similar. However, a neighbour assisted me . . .

Posted: 2011-02-12

Don't let loose threads pull your couch apart

Dear Leanne: I was dog-sitting my friend's exuberant two-year-old terrier, which seemed to enjoy sleeping on our couch. Apparently he isn't allowed on the furniture, but likes to sneak up when no one is looking. We suspected this as we . . .

Posted: 2012-04-21

There's no tool like the RIGHT TOOL

Garden essentials that make life easier

When it comes to garden tools, there are shears, spreaders, shovels and spades -- and that's just gadgets that start with 'S'. Walk into the garden-tool section of any home improvement or landscaping centre, and newbie gardeners can expect to be . . .

Posted: 2010-07-24

Pesky critters driving gardener squirrelly

QUESTION: I have a problem with squirrels. They dig up bulbs in my garden faster than I can replace them. Is there any solution? Eugenia (Warren, Man.)ANSWER: What works for one squirrel will not necessarily work for all squirrels, but . . .

Posted: 2015-04-18

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Aluminum wiring requires special plug-in receptacles

QUESTION: My home was built in 1978 or 1979. It has aluminum wiring. Lately, I am noticing sparking in different plugs when I plug something in. Is this something to be concerned about. Thank you. Barb Wild ANSWER: Sometimes when minor . . .

Posted: 2013-04-27

CONNIE OLIVER: Reflections on mirroring your interior life

This Kohler bathroom is stunning. Though the colour palette is muted, the room has sparkle and glitz. The crystal chandelier definitely steals the show, but the collection of decorative mirrors also adds dimension and visual depth. The pair of oval mirrors is . . .

Posted: 2011-01-08

GARDENING: It all begins indoors

Starting seeds along their way inside is easy

It's that time of year again! Gardeners from all corners of the Prairies have been nestled up with their favourite seed catalogs, dreaming of the summer to come. Now that spring is approaching, it's time to start planting. Starting seeds indoors . . .

Posted: 2011-02-12

Quick and easy updates to help sell your home

You don't need to mortgage the future for these

If you plan on selling your house, a new report lists a few renovation projects that could ensure you get top dollar for your property. Whether we're talking new plumbing fixtures, new flooring or new kitchen cabinets, a suitable renovation can . . .

Posted: 2008-04-13

SOLUTIONS: Removing dog's odour from sofa

QUESTION -- Our dog's favourite place to sit was on our leather sofa, and now that she is gone, we cannot seem to get the odour off of the leather. We have tried leather cleaners, but to no avail. I . . .

Posted: 2013-01-19

Around The House

Back to school NO one does small spaces afford-ably better than IKEA, and this fall the Swedish retailer is tackling dorm rooms in style. From bedding to desks to organizers, IKEA has coeds covered. Here are some suggestions for starting university in . . .

Posted: 2010-09-25