Timely snow removal is key to preventing eavestrough damage

Question: We built our bungalow in 2017 adjacent to a two-storey home and a walking path on the other side. Over the past seven years I’ve noticed that the wind circulates differently around our bungalow than the two-storey homes . . .

Posted: 2023-07-15

Dreamy dollhouse makeover

Dollhouses this season continue to scream all things pink. From the shingles to doors, fuscia to flamingo, hues of pink are timeless. Hot trends for 2019 include doorbells, earth friendly construction and turrets. So if your dollhouse is starting to . . .

Posted: 2019-06-12

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Check seal if countertop seams are lifting

QUESTION: I work for a company that builds new homes. On a regular basis, we are getting calls and emails from our homeowners stating that their countertops are lifting at the seam. Upon sending for the trade who installed it . . .

Posted: 2010-01-30

RENOVATIONS: Which 'wood' you trust?

Plywood is superior to oriented strand board as a building material

The fuselage, wings and tail of a Second World War Mosquito bomber were constructed of and covered with a layer of plywood. Imagine the same aircraft built of oriented strand board (OSB), the ubiquitous house sheathing manufactured by gluing wood . . .

Posted: 2013-03-09

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

Skylights: leaks are a matter of when, not if

They're just not suited to our climate; tube skylights a possible alternative

Question -- I have a question about skylights. I just moved into a house which does not have a window in the kitchen. I was going to have a window added on the south-facing wall, even though it faces another . . .

Posted: 2009-02-28

ASK THE INSPECTOR: No shortcuts when removing skylights

QUESTION: We have two skylights that were installed when we built our home in 1986. We have been having water leakage for the past five years or so and are considering totally removing them. Can you give us some guidance . . .

Posted: 2011-02-19

Layer sheeting and insulation to avoid moisture

Question: I have an attached garage that is not insulated. I store some odds and ends in the ceiling, such as shovels, Christmas lights, etc. I am planning on insulating my garage soon.The walls are straightforward, but there are many . . .

Posted: 2017-01-07

Battle mould by eliminating moisture

Question: I am wondering if you could help me out with directions on how to deal with mould under my cottage. I use the cottage year round. My cottage is built on four foot piers around the exterior and a few . . .

Posted: 2014-08-14

MIKE HOLMES: Maintain your fireplace or risk catastrophe

A fireplace that doesn't function properly is a serious safety risk to our families. Ideally, we want the smoke going out and the heat coming in (and maybe Santa, too). There are many types of fireplaces: traditional masonry wood-burning fireplaces, gas, . . .

Posted: 2013-01-05