Exhausting work

Replacing bathroom fans is supposed to be easy. Sure…

After finishing an ensuite renovation last year, the clients requested replacing the existing ceiling exhaust fan with a new, quieter model with greater air flow. We chose a high-efficiency exhaust fan and set an installation date for it and another . . .

Posted: 2024-12-14

Insulating air ducts to prevent mould

Minor maintenance required to keep airways in tip-top shape

Question: I have a question related to insulated fresh air intakes. Should those intakes be replaced periodically? Can they be a source of concern for air quality in a home? Can mould and other unwanted products be caused by the . . .

Posted: 2018-12-15

Stopping air leakage in older homes always a challenge

Question: I’m wondering if you could offer a practical solution for an issue which is a real problem in very cold weather. I had the basement, with a poured concrete foundation, insulated with foam a while ago. This was . . .

Posted: 2022-11-05

Habitat helps families with Canada 150 project

Homes may be ready by end of the year

It’s something that never gets old for Habitat for Humanity Manitoba’s CEO, Sandy Hopkins. "This is my eighth build, " he said as he surveyed the beehive of activity behind him at 210 Lyle Street in St. James, site of the . . .

Posted: 2017-07-22

Sprayed-on poly foam OK for stone foundation insulation

Question: I have been trying to do some research on the risks associated with stone foundations that have had spray foam applied on the interior in the crawl space. We have had an inspection done on a house that had this . . .

Posted: 2019-03-23

A designated space to hit the books

Proper study habits start with desktop organization

SEPTEMBER brings students back to school. And whether it's elementary or high school, college or university, working from home, a dorm room or an apartment, having a designated area to study is key. We've asked area experts just what's needed to . . .

Posted: 2011-09-24

SOLUTIONS: Getting your popovers to pop out of the pan

QUESTION: I read your column regularly and have used many of your user-friendly, no-fuss, no-cost home-based tips. Now I need your help: How does one get popovers out of muffin tins? I heat the tin, rub it with vegetable oil . . .

Posted: 2014-04-05

Hiring right in battle against rot

Helpful hints will help you find a reliable contractor

Question: Hi, I enjoy reading your articles in the Free Press on Saturdays. Perhaps you can direct me to a reputable business that can possibly do a repair for me. The wooden pillar on our front porch is starting to . . .

Posted: 2017-06-24

CONNIE OLIVER: How to update your kitchen for under $300

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. When I happened upon a picture of a kitchen that had a similar layout and vintage of my own kitchen, it sparked a desire for change. Over the years, my 1950s-era kitchen . . .

Posted: 2013-03-09

CONNIE OLIVER: How to decorate a media room

I chose today's feature photograph for several reasons. I've not covered decorating a media room in a long while, and this room is particularly stunning. The first thing that catches your eye is the great architectural details of the room. The . . .

Posted: 2011-09-10