ASK THE INSPECTOR: Replacing flexible ducting can be exhausting

QUESTION: I live in a single-storey home that is about 55 years old. The roof is described as a gable roof with a two-foot overhang front and back and a one-foot overhang on each end. The attic is insulated with . . .

Posted: 2012-12-15

SOLUTIONS: Whiten yellowed ivory piano keys patiently

QUESTION: What is the best way to clean piano or organ keys? Just as a side note, my Household Solutions books arrived in the mail and I am happy to say that some of my Christmas shopping is already done. . . .

Posted: 2010-07-31

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Attic moisture plaguing Manitoba homes

QUESTION: We had water dripping from our second-floor bedroom ceiling the evening of the first mild day a few weeks ago. Today, when I had time to get up into the attic, I found quite a bit of snow, about . . .

Posted: 2014-03-29

Manitoba climate poses special problems for A/C systems

QUESTION: I wonder if you might offer some suggestions for a couple of problems we have had since the installation of an attic air conditioning system? Six years ago we decided to rid ourselves of our one large in-the-wall A/C unit . . .

Posted: 2009-04-19

Stop using humidifier to improve home air quality

Question: I have a humidifier in the furnace room with a dial switch 10-75 in my home in Edmonton. I believe this is percentage. It also has a switch from winter to summer on it, which just opens the channel . . .

Posted: 2015-12-05

CONNIE OLIVER: You can paint your way to a fresh, new décor

IF your decor is in need of a change but you can't afford to buy all new furniture, consider painting your wooden pieces to create a whole new look. Saving money usually means you have to put in a little . . .

Posted: 2011-05-21

Handle your candles with care

Shedding a bit of light on a little-considered subject

There is actually a proper way to burn a candle. And there are ways to make them last longer. The main rule of enjoying candles is to never leave a burning candle unattended. That’s basic safety, after all. We spoke to . . .

Posted: 2018-12-08

Make up bed well — you’ll lie in it

Sheets, covers and mattress size a few of the things to think about

Overwhelmed by the myriad choices in bedding? Here are five top considerations to help narrow the options: ❚ Know the difference between Egyptian cotton and regular cotton. The fibre of Egyptian cotton is longer than regular cotton (1 3/8-inch compared to one . . .

Posted: 2010-01-23

Looking for a subdivision? Choices abound

YOU know how sometimes we see something so often that we fail to appreciate just how amazing it is? That happens to me sometimes when I look at the subdivision guide within the Saturday Homes section. Although I always read . . .

Posted: 2011-07-09

Roof ice damming related to air sealing and insulation

Question: I have an ongoing problem with ice damming. I did change the shingles on the roof twice. The last time was seven years ago. Now, I am thinking of changing the furnace to a high-efficient unit, plus I would . . .

Posted: 2014-10-18