Make a real (back)splash

The right look can make your kitchen come alive

The backsplash is one area of the kitchen that can be used to create drama through colour, pattern and texture. If you are starting with a clean slate (a smooth surface) your choices for a backsplash finish are endless. Today we'll . . .

Posted: 2008-08-24

Freeze chocolate for no-static shavings in cappuccino

Question: I have a block of Callebaut chocolate which I shave for sprinkling on cappuccinos etc. I have tried a potato peeler and a handheld grater for this purpose, but both cause static electricity shavings everywhere! Is there anything . . .

Posted: 2022-11-05

SOLUTIONS: Vinegar effective against mold and bacteria

QUESTION: Could you enlarge please on the antiseptic properties of vinegar? I am using it exclusively now and feel very good doing so, but I would like some info on just how effective it is. What I do suggest also is . . .

Posted: 2013-05-04

Shutters: more than window dressing

A lot of people put exterior shutters on their windows to dress up their houses. They want to add "curb appeal, " especially if they are trying to sell their homes. I'm a practical guy. I like things in your house . . .

Posted: 2011-06-25

New in the hood

With any luck, your replacement project will go like ductwork

Whether it looks dated or has simply begun to lose its ability to properly vent, a range hood will surely require replacement at some point during the span of a kitchen’s lifetime. Fortunately, the process to upgrade a range hood . . .

Posted: 2025-05-17

MIKE HOLMES: Longtime owners need home inspections, too

Most people think about getting a home inspection when they buy a house, and with good reason. I think anyone who would buy a house without paying for a professional home inspection is crazy. Some people even decide to get a . . .

Posted: 2011-10-01

Ozone machine will help eliminate powerful odours

Question: We have an older camper trailer in which the previous owners placed Downy Unstoppable beads throughout the unit. We have washed the interior, had the windows open all summer, had all cushions outside as well and stuffed the . . .

Posted: 2022-11-12

Geothermal not right for every space

Question:We are planning to change a 300-square-foot attached garage to a home addition, which will be a mudroom and entrance. At this time, there is an existing cement pad, which is in good condition. Do we need to remove it . . .

Posted: 2015-06-06

Hiring the right builder is critical

Building a new home is one of the largest investments a family will makes in its lifetime. Needless to say, doing your due diligence when selecting the right builder is critically important when a family is making this type of . . .

Posted: 2019-11-16

SOLUTIONS: Jersey got a rough ride

Try soap and borax solution to clobber tough stain

QUESTION: I would be forever indebted to you if you could advise on getting stains out of a green Roughrider jersey! I have two and when I purchased the second one I swore that I would not get it . . .

Posted: 2009-08-02