Divert coffee grounds from sink drain to garden

Question: Do you think it’s safe to pour coffee grounds into the kitchen sink? Wyatt Answer: Some professionals say it is OK to dump coffee grounds down the drain if you run enough water to flush them completely out of the . . .

Posted: 2022-01-15

Create a whitewash effect with paint or plaster

Dear Debbie: We have a cottage finished with pine boards throughout and I find it a little boring and would like to add colour to some of the walls. I have heard you can do a whitewash with paint. What . . .

Posted: 2013-04-13

DEBBIE TRAVIS: A long shelf-life

Worn-out unit gets makeover

One of the most common purchases for us all at one time or another is the basic laminate shelving unit. This inexpensive storage solution may have already done service as a student's bookshelf, a spot for children's toys and stuffed . . .

Posted: 2009-05-31

Use water and alcohol to clean TV screen

QUESTION: I recently bought an LCD TV. The dealer stressed that the screen was not glass and could easily be damaged by using common glass cleaners, for example those that contain ammonia. From what I’ve read, the damage may not . . .

Posted: 2021-01-02

Easily fix baseboard damage using wood putty

Question: My brand-new puppy chewed the baseboards in my bachelor pad. I don’t want to lose my damage deposit, what is the easiest solution?— Troy   Answer: If the marks are shallow, you can repair them with wood putty, which is available at . . .

Posted: 2018-01-27

MIKE HOLMES: Get a property survey before you build

Don't risk fines or lawsuits

Most homeowners never think about a property survey. They might have one somewhere that came with the house when they bought it. But odds are they don't know where it is, or whether it's even accurate. But you need to fix . . .

Posted: 2009-07-12

Have plan in place for weekend reno show

Know exactly what you want for your project

This weekend, homeowners will be visiting the Winnipeg Renovation Show at the RBC Convention Centre to learn about the latest trends in home renovation, and pick up some great tips and ideas from numerous vendors and experts. Show attendees can also . . .

Posted: 2019-01-12

Cherry picker

Hardy fruit choices for backyard growers

In spite of the extreme climate, the Prairies can support a multitude of unique fruit crops such as dwarf sour cherry, seabuckthorn and northern hardy grapes that are not only hardy here but produce an abundance of delicious, fresh fruit, . . .

Posted: 2013-05-11

Keep up the Christmas spirit

Extend the life of your poinsettia

More waste is thrown out during the holiday period than at any other time of the year. Crumpled wrapping paper, hastily torn ribbon, countless boxes, Christmas trees that are losing their needles and near-lifeless poinsettia plants. Wait, that last one you . . .

Posted: 2013-12-21

Get your house in shape for the new year

It’s that time of year in which we resolve to make our lives better. From eating healthier to getting more sleep, now is when we declare our intent to step it up a notch.Would it surprise you then, to hear . . .

Posted: 2017-01-07