Chimney removal no easy process

Question: We have a 1, 300-square-foot bungalow, built in 1970, with a low-slope roof and a vaulted ceiling in the front half. We had a negative energy test before we installed a new high-efficiency furnace and changed to an electric . . .

Posted: 2014-08-23

Gutter guards useful but not always necessary

Best ones are easy to clean and don't require regular attention

Question: I have a two-and-a-half-storey old house in River Heights and will be getting new eavestroughs. Some companies are recommending Alu-Rex gutter guards. What are your thoughts on this? I haven’t found anyone yet who has had them installed to get . . .

Posted: 2019-06-08

Sealing needed after replacing gas fireplaces

Question: I’ve changed two gas fireplaces in my home that were B-vented and replaced them with direct-vent units. I’m now hearing what I think is water dripping from condensation in the old venting. Would it be wise to get a . . .

Posted: 2018-10-13

Opt for versatile flooring

Whether it's ceramic, stone or vinyl ...

Some of my first DIY projects included tiling the kitchen backsplash and shower-stall walls of my first house, and the front entrance landing, too. Short of choosing different tile colours and patterns, these initial tiling experiences revolved around ceramic tile and . . .

Posted: 2018-11-24

Mud & suds

Organizing utility rooms

Today's generation is transforming our homes into personal spaces where we regularly indulge in experiences for which we, at one time, went outside the house.Along with this transformation comes the demand that each space performs its function the best way . . .

Posted: 2014-01-18

MIKE HOLMES: You can't do it. We can't help. Seriously.

DIY my eye: hire a pro

I am the anti-DIY guy. Even though I talk about empowering you to take charge of your renovation, and as much as I think you need to be educated about every aspect of your home, I don't believe you can do . . .

Posted: 2010-07-24

Avoid attic asbestos by re-routing renos

Question: My home is a side-by-side bungalow, where the front part of the house has a cathedral-type ceiling over the living room, kitchen and dining area. The adjoining wall between the homes is 11 feet high and the galley-type kitchen . . .

Posted: 2016-12-31

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Ventilation needed to cure damp smell

QUESTION: Fifteen years ago we added a bedroom and family room to our 540-square-foot home. The addition is set on piles. The crawl space was insulated with Styrofoam and poly and the floor was covered with poly and sand. All . . .

Posted: 2010-05-29

Preventing mould just as important as removing it

Question: We noticed some mould-like patches on the ceiling of our washroom, right above the shower. It started with a small spot a year back and now has become bigger. We got a handyman two months back to check it out . . .

Posted: 2017-10-28

Woman's Guide To The Essential Tools For Your Toolbox

Women are the largest consumers to purchase materials for the home and they buy decorative as well as the necessary tools needed. And more and more women are discovering the satisfaction of do-it-yourself projects. In this video learn what tools . . .

Posted: 2009-05-11