ASK THE INSPECTOR: Structural wood floors require proper installation

QUESTION: I read your column every week in the Winnipeg Free Press. Although I don't have a specific question regarding my current home, I do have a question about current new-home-construction methods, specifically with regard to structural wood floors (SWFs). More . . .

Posted: 2012-12-08

A bevy of good luck on this reno

Failed mini-fridge results in nifty replacement

It’s always disappointing when an appliance fails only a few months past the expiration date of its warranty. Upon the completion of our dining room renovation, the space was populated with an expanded dining room table, a wall-mounted electric fireplace, . . .

Posted: 2020-03-21

Classic lines, modern luxury

Beautiful bungalow has it all

Some homes naturally capture your attention, while others don’t. Such is the case with Artista Homes’ new show home at 8 Bryce Boulevard in Oak Bluff West. You can’t help but be instantly drawn to its sleek silhouette and clean lines, . . .

Posted: 2025-09-06

SOLUTIONS: What to do when down-filled parka sheds feathers

QUESTION: I bought a very expensive down-filled parka last year. It sheds feathers on my clothes every time I wear it. I have put it in the dryer on cool and hardly any feathers were in the lint trap. Then . . .

Posted: 2014-03-08

Homeowner on track to fix air pressure

Heat recovery ventilator may be answer

111Once the snow begins melting on the roof, the fans in both main-floor bathrooms drip with water. There also seems to be quite a bit of moisture in the ceiling around the fans. Our conclusion is that, over the . . .

Posted: 2008-10-12

Luxury downtown apartments ready to go

Soho Flats in The Exchange a breath of fresh air

Back in 2019, Centre Venture Winnipeg put out a request for proposals on a compact parcel of land at the corner of Logan Avenue and Princess Street. The eventual winner was CIAO Developments and Raviia Capital, developers based in Calgary and . . .

Posted: 2022-03-26

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Consult independent floor contractors

QUESTION: I've been doing some renovations on our cabin and I am now starting to research flooring. I've been getting conflicting information on the best type of product to use. We've been looking at laminate flooring as hardwood has been . . .

Posted: 2010-07-31

No need to help your basement stay cool

Below-grade areas naturally colder; keeping heating registers open will ensure good air circulation

Question: I have an unfinished basement with four air vents. Can I close all or some of the vents in the winter, as I would like to keep the basement cool? — Thanks, Py Su.   Answer: Opening or closing heat registers to regulate . . .

Posted: 2018-09-29

Doors just don't last like they used to

Question: When our house was about six months old, we noticed the exterior door wasn’t closing symmetrically. It would be snug at the bottom, but shy of closing by about a quarter of an inch at the top. The builder had . . .

Posted: 2017-10-14

Vermiculite insulation likely not a concern as long as contained

Question: I recently had an insulation contractor come to my home to upgrade my attic insulation and ventilation, based on your recommendations from a previous inspection. I called you because there were moisture stains and cracks on my ceiling, . . .

Posted: 2023-08-12