Sealing unused vents and chimneys a simple process

Questions: I came across one of your articles about sealing an unused brick chimney. It got me to wonder, when we remove and cap a couple wall furnaces with central heat, what’s a good way to insulate the metal . . .

Posted: 2022-10-22

Hire a professional or it could cost you plenty

Staying safe and secure has been on the top of everyone’s mind as we’ve all collectively dealt with COVID-19 and its impact on our day to day life. This focus extends not just to our homes, but also our workplaces . . .

Posted: 2020-05-30

Go with the flow

Shower-faucet valve replacement all about access

Through the years, a shower head and faucet will begin to show its age. Although replacing a shower handle and cover can be a cost-effective and relatively simple option, a persistent drip from a faucet may signal it’s time for . . .

Posted: 2025-03-22

Sump pump in crawlspace always a good idea

Question: Should I install a sump pump in my crawlspace for a house I’m building in Gimli? I’m concerned about the possibility of an issue with the sump pump while I’m away from the house for a long period of . . .

Posted: 2022-06-04

Security tips for empty house

Help protect home, belongings from thieves during holidays

It's the time of year when many of us are getting excited about heading out on our annual vacation. Too bad we can't bring the house along. Besides getting caught up with all the yard work before we leave, there's always . . .

Posted: 2008-06-29

Hanging drywall can be tricky business

Challenges may arrive, but there’s ALWAYS a solution

Anyone who has lugged around and installed multiple sheets of drywall will attest to the awkwardness, and sheer difficulty of the process. During a lower-level walk-out renovation in a newly developed area, the project required 96 sheets at eight . . .

Posted: 2024-03-23

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Warming up basement floor without wet woes

QUESTION: Recently we bought a modest bungalow in North Kildonan. The basement, which has some of the area broken up by stud-framed walls that are not sheeted in, will be completed as soon as it is affordable. The concrete floor . . .

Posted: 2011-05-14

Building codes dictate need and location of kitchen vent

Question: I came across an article you had written about kitchen ventilation and was hoping you might not mind giving me your opinion on a range-hood question. We are building a new home and are trying decide between a ducted range hood, . . .

Posted: 2016-05-28

Protect yourself when doing home improvements

While it feels like this winter weather may never leave, Manitobans are starting to turn their attention to planning and preparing for spring yard work, gardening, and how best to enjoy the long and beautiful summer we all deserve. . . .

Posted: 2023-04-01

It's a growing pastime

You should excuse the pun -- gardening is rapidly growing into the No. 1 North American hobby. Maybe we're trying to save money by growing our own veggies or maybe gardeners are returning to the soil as a means of . . .

Posted: 2010-05-01