Store fresh apples properly; they'll last longer

QUESTION: I just filled my second fridge crisper with fresh-picked apples. I always sprinkle baking soda and put a layer of paper towels under the apples. Do I set the crisper tray on high or low humidity? I also filled . . .

Posted: 2014-09-20

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Metal roofs ideal, if costly, alternative to shingles

QUESTION: I am a regular reader of your column in the Winnipeg Free Press. I would like to know your opinion on installing tin roofs for residential houses. The asphalt shingles on my house are at the end of . . .

Posted: 2009-09-06

Properly insulated basement key to comfort on upper floors

Question: I would appreciate your opinion about a room temperature problem I'm facing with the tenants of my house, a split-level with finished basement, built in 1984. The tenants have been complaining of cold in the living room, with temperatures . . .

Posted: 2015-11-07

Fibreglass laminated shingles best roofing bang for buck

If you're a committed or about to be a committed DIY renovator, you likely have conversations with yourself about the pros and cons of which materials to re-roof your cottage or home.I like to think of myself as committed renovator, . . .

Posted: 2015-07-25

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Proper removal of moss on cedar shingles

QUESTION: I read your articles in the Winnipeg Free Press and I have a question about moss growing on our cedar shingles on our roof. Is it OK to leave it, or what can I spray to kill the moss? . . .

Posted: 2012-05-05

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Stop moss growth from damaging shingles

QUESTION: Ten years ago we replaced the roof with 25-year shingles and I have now discovered moss growth on the shady side of this roof. What can we do about cleaning it up and what are some preventive measures to . . .

Posted: 2010-05-15

Properly seal unused chimney to prevent moisture issues

Question: I am trying to help a friend with a leaky chimney, which is allowing spring run-off water into their basement. The house is about 50 years old and the masonry chimney is outside the main concrete foundation wall, which . . .

Posted: 2016-03-12

Keep your sheetslooking sweet

Properly caring for fine linens will extend their age

If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to sleep in a four-star-hotel bed, you know there is nothing like the crisp, clean feel of fine white sheets. I cherished my first set, a wedding present, and was dismayed when, over time, . . .

Posted: 2018-09-22

Good medicine

Installing a new bathroom cabinet can be a do-it-yourself snap

Here's a do-it-yourself job for the bathroom that may appear harder than it actually is: Replacing or adding a medicine cabinet. The mirrored bathroom cabinet is a bathroom multi-tasker, functioning as a storage space, hiding place and beauty and grooming station. . . .

Posted: 2008-11-02

A not-so-simple task in hand

Installing a handrail poses some challenges

After completing the final job of 2024, a well-deserved break began shortly before the holiday festivities kicked off. During that time, I elected to tackle one lingering task regarding the completion of the basement project at my house. What I . . .

Posted: 2025-01-11