Custom stringers provide versatility

Creating stairs fairly easy once process established

During the elaborate deck build at my own property years ago, it became obvious quite quickly that prefabricated stair stringers that could accommodate my design would not be easily found. As such, every single one of them was hand-cut on . . .

Posted: 2022-06-11

Proper planning can speed up deck build

Entire project completed in two days

Sometimes, potential clients assume contractors can simply snap our fingers and have their new deck built instantly. The reality is most contractors are generally booked well in advance, especially during the summer months. And secondly, co-ordinating the materials order, scheduling a . . .

Posted: 2019-09-07

Hosting an Instagram Worthy Brunch

Do you ever wonder how you can up your brunch game? You don’t have to be a professional chef to make your Sunday brunch look like something straight out of Food & Wine magazine. A carefully curated menu, a few . . .

Posted: 2019-11-01

Some assembly (and thinking) required

Not all renos are covered in the instruction manual

If installation instructions are available when doing a renovation it’s important to read them. Not taking a few moments to do so can result in a whole lot of wasted time. In the early days when working on my first home, . . .

Posted: 2020-04-04

Just lounging around

Deck chairs get new lease on life

While addressing the numerous lumber orders and deliveries for impending summer build projects over the course of the next few months, there are a few lingering tasks on my property that also require my attention. And although a few . . .

Posted: 2023-05-27

Attractive tile never goes out of style

Backsplash made from individual tiles a challenging task

A kitchen renovation can be very invasive. When the project calls for an entire gut and remodel, the area can be rendered non-functional for as long as eight weeks. This is why I often retain the old sink and a . . .

Posted: 2020-04-18

Getting it done just in time

Squeezing autumn projects into schedule always satisfying

Summer build seasons are hectic, primarily due to the congestion of projects that require attention between the time the snow melts, and moment winter is thrust upon us. Most of my usual exterior projects are scheduled on a weekly . . .

Posted: 2022-10-01

Not all winter activities are equal

Antique photo album of Winnipeg snowshoers in need of good home

Soon, the weather outside will be frightful and for some weird reason, that makes you winter lovers happy. Well good on ya. I appreciate your appreciation, but since all my favourite outdoor activities need summer, I’ll applaud your enthusiasm looking . . .

Posted: 2016-11-19

Surface spalling on concrete surfaces can be repaired

Question: We built a house and took possession of it in December 2018. Is it normal to get bad spalling on the concrete driveway this early? We have only lived here for 18 months. We talked to the builder and . . .

Posted: 2020-07-04

CONNIE OLIVER: Bring some blissful decor to the bedroom

The bedroom is my favourite room to decorate. Whether it's just new curtains and linens or a complete overhaul, this private space needs to be restful and inviting. It doesn't take a lot of work to get a great new look. . . .

Posted: 2012-09-01