Refinishing pressure-treated wood a losing battle

Condo owner mulls restaining deck despite inevitable wear

Question: We live in a bungalow condo and are responsible for maintaining our front and back wooden decks, which are pressure-treated, 2x6 boards with rounded corners. What I have done over a period of 12 years is apply two coats, . . .

Posted: 2018-10-20

Good growing

Transcona gardener reveals secrets to success

Looking for solutions to challenges in your garden or suggestions for some new plants to try? Spend time in someone else’s garden, talking to the owner, and you are bound to come away with new perspectives or fresh inspiration.Carole Young . . .

Posted: 2016-07-23

SOLUTIONS: Use carpet remnants to fix burned patch

QUESTION: I have a cigarette burn on my carpet.  Is there an easy way to fix this without leaving a big space? Help please! Val, Winnipeg ANSWER: Since the carpet fibres have actually been singed away you basically have two options. . . .

Posted: 2010-01-02

RENOVATIONS: Getting down with renovation project

Condo receives extensive work in the basement

A home in the town of Birds Hill is about to undergo some major surgery. The 15-year-old condo will receive a major basement overhaul to improve the structural integrity of the concrete walls, add more insulation where needed and provide the . . .

Posted: 2013-11-02

SOLUTIONS: Rubber ball takes out running-shoe marks

QUESTION: I am 76 years old and regularly look after my grandchildren on weekdays. Although I enjoy my time with them, when they leave, I almost always notice black marks on the floor from their runners. It is hard to . . .

Posted: 2011-07-09

CONNIE OLIVER: In the mood

Choose your emotional palette before making colour decisions

These two rooms couldn't be more different. The living room has a calm, soothing atmosphere while the dining room emits a feeling of energy and vibrancy. I chose these two vastly different room styles so we can delve into how . . .

Posted: 2011-12-10

Homeowners and contractors require adequate insurance when renovating

A homeowner considering a renovation should hold a comprehensive insurance policy, as should the contractor who will undertake the work.Reno companies that quote lowball prices are able to do so because they are generally fly-by-night operations with no insurance of . . .

Posted: 2015-10-10

CONNIE OLIVER: Create a new kitchen with Old World charm

This beautiful kitchen exudes tons of Old World charm. You can almost feel the comforting warmth of the golden hues and smell the roasting eggplant Parmesan and garlic bread. It's no easy feat to create a room design that evokes . . .

Posted: 2012-03-03

Sometimes, you just roll with the punches...

Blending old and new no easy task, but a little improvisation goes a long way

Blending old exterior finishes with new ones has got to be one of the toughest renovation tasks there is. Especially after a long period of time has elapsed and the sun and the elements have faded and discoloured the old . . .

Posted: 2019-08-17

Balcony gardening

The lawnless can easily turn patios into lush escapes

No yard? No problem. Just because you live high in the sky doesn't mean your green thumb has to go brown. While balcony gardening comes with its own unique challenges, the lawnless can easily turn patios into lush escapes with just a . . .

Posted: 2009-07-12