Extruded polystyrene insulation a good bet in basement

Question: We want to refinish our old 1970s basement, take out the panelling, and install drywall. We noticed there was vapour barrier behind the insulation, not in front. However, the insulation is kraft paper faced. Is this OK? Also, we noticed . . .

Posted: 2021-08-21

Transform your yard into an enchanted garden

Many fine gardens are candidates for visiting and enjoying, but only one garden matters, and that’s your own. Yours may amount to a narrow urban yard or just a few containers on a patio. It’s not the space you have, it’s . . .

Posted: 2017-09-30

Kitchen countertops don't have to be perfect

Stains and nicks are bound to happen

As a designer and avid cook, I’m often asked what material I recommend for kitchen countertops. My answer: honed marble (statuary or Carrara are my favourites) or soapstone because I like their mellow look juxtaposed with my kitchen’s polished-nickel fixtures . . .

Posted: 2018-01-06

CONNIE OLIVER: The new and the bold in home decorating

New and notable Sometimes I come across great services, products and ideas that don't warrant an entire column on their own but are noteworthy all the same. I've now collected enough of these helpful tidbits to be able to put them . . .

Posted: 2011-06-18

Piles of goodness

Helpful supports designed to eliminate the movement of structures

Most of my deck projects are framed using a common method — joists atop a laminated beam supported by posts and pads. To accommodate a 38-foot long and 11-foot deep front porch project on a house near Lockport that also . . .

Posted: 2020-11-28

Using your home to improve your well-being

Interior design experts recommend four general approaches to creating a healthy house

Can your home help you get healthier? Interior designers say clients don’t just want help creating a more beautiful home anymore. They want to create living spaces where they will cook healthier foods, breathe healthier air and improve overall wellness. Here, three . . .

Posted: 2019-06-08

MIKE HOLMES: Water can give your yard a failing grade

Some homeowners might be starting to notice flooding on their properties. This is thanks to the extra water accumulation the spring thaw brings, not to mention those April showers. When pools of water start to gather in sections of your . . .

Posted: 2012-04-28

Simple steps to updating your kitchen

From getting rid of clutter to adding an accent wall, how to make the room look brand new

Who hasn’t stared at their kitchen and wished HGTV could sweep in and update it? Short of a television show’s budget and ability to bring in contractors, the next best thing might be talking to people who have decorated for . . .

Posted: 2019-02-23

Grill season is coming

No summer weekend is complete without an outdoor barbecue. But before you fire up the grill this season, you’ll want to give it a thorough cleaning and make sure it’s safe to use. After all, you don’t want a grimy, . . .

Posted: 2018-05-19

Choose the right builder for a log home that lasts

W hen most people think log house they think cottage. But for some people, a log house is their ultimate dream home -- and they might be determined to make it a reality.I love log houses -- their look, . . .

Posted: 2013-10-19