New homes offer style, function, value and great location

As much as people focus on style when they look at a new home, they often overlook a subtle, yet important feature: none other than a home’s overall livability.Three elements play a central role in determining how livable a home . . .

Posted: 2016-03-12

The mudroom: a safe spot for you and your boots

Mudrooms are the ugly ducklings of the home. Purely functional, the dirt and sloppiness are so integrated and expected in this room that "mud" is a part of its very name.While the romance of a grand, sweeping foyer is undeniable, . . .

Posted: 2016-09-03

GARDENING: The promise of spring

Garden centres busily prepare for rush of customers

Getting your house ready when company is coming can sometimes seems like a mammoth task. Yet, by the time you're ready to greet your guests, everything is in place -- it all looks effortless and only you know what has . . .

Posted: 2013-03-09

Break on through to the other side

Cutting holes in walls to add light -- and FIRE

A project that includes the breach of an exterior wall always drums up a bit of anxiety. Once that hole is made you’re committed. At a recent jobsite the homeowner’s design required three separate breaches that had to look just as . . .

Posted: 2021-09-25

The dirt on successful gardening

Good soil key to growing healthy plants

What are you planning to do differently in your garden this year?With the start of a new year, most gardeners envision a new and better way of doing things. Whether you are fuelled by frustration because of underperforming plants or . . .

Posted: 2015-01-03

Manage snow runoff to help keep old garage dry

Question: I have a 40-year-old double garage in which water seeps through the bottom of the walls, as the piles of snow outside melt, creating puddles everywhere inside. What do you suggest to remedy this? Thanks very much for . . .

Posted: 2023-03-04

Time to hit the shower

Waterproofing always critical in bathroom remodel

When pursuing a bathroom remodel, the most common upgrade is swapping the tub and shower out for the sole walk-in shower stall. Although the prospect sounds straight-forward enough, there are a few installation differences to acknowledge before getting your feet . . .

Posted: 2020-12-19

Frozen vent require further investigation

Skip the ladders and MacGyver tactics, call a plumber to double check installation

Question: I read your response to an article submitted a few years ago regarding a vent pipe that freezes shut on the roof. I agree with the several options to fix the problem that you suggested, but I have the . . .

Posted: 2018-12-08

Keep moisture at bay with the right materials

Question: We met a few years ago when I fortunately called upon you to inspect an old apartment block. This block was being transformed into condo units. At the time we were looking to purchase a unit for our daughter. . . .

Posted: 2016-09-03

CONNIE OLIVER: Cheap, simple ways to spruce up the house

I love to share advice and tips with people on all sorts of subjects. I thought it might be helpful if I shared some of my favourite decorating things and ideas with you. Most are simple, everyday items or ideas . . .

Posted: 2010-07-10