Moving basement window a task fraught with risk

Could weaken foundation, lead to cracks, damage

Question: We are planning to replace our wood-burning fireplace with a gas one. In order to do so, a gas meter would have to be placed below our kitchen window. Currently, the window for our basement bedroom is below the . . .

Posted: 2015-06-20

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Amps question proves outlet for confusion

QUESTION: My house was built in the 1950s. The wiring is original. It is not knob and tube and is not aluminum. I have been told to replace 15-amp outlets with 20-amp outlets in the kitchen. Should I do this? . . .

Posted: 2012-12-22

RENOVATION: A garage is no longer just a garage

Modern car shelters boost curb appeal, resale value

I think it was Gertrude Stein who said "a garage is a garage is a garage." But that was an epoch ago, when a lean-to sufficed as a shelter for a Model T or, in the case of grand old . . .

Posted: 2013-04-13

Heat-recovery ventilator should handle steam-shower moisture

QUESTION: I just purchased a 10-year-old house that has a Lennox HRV unit. I want to convert a bathroom tub and add a steam shower. Is the HRV sufficient for the steam or do I require an exhaust fan? If . . .

Posted: 2019-07-13

Extra steps ensure great stairs

Patience will help guarantee you get everything on the nose

When tasked with a project that involves the introduction of vinyl-plank flooring with underpad throughout the main level of a home, the endeavour usually includes a few stairs. At a recent job site, the stairway leading to the basement had . . .

Posted: 2025-12-27

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Chimney excavation likely needed to prevent seepage

QUESTION: My neighbour and I have the same problem. Both houses were built in 1957 and they have, what I think, is a cleanout hole for the chimney. At this time of year, and when there is a heavy . . .

Posted: 2014-05-10

Hard-wired smoke alarms may not be enough

Don't stop at building-code compliance if you want to increase your home's safety level

QUESTION: A question in regards to a basement smoke detectors. We have permits and are finishing our basement. It will consist of a bathroom, home office and rec-room area. There is a hard-wired detector in the rec-room area.Does the office . . .

Posted: 2016-11-26

Renovate your home now, cash in later

While it may not exactly feel like spring with the weather we've been having, spring has sprung and with it a whole host of new plans, projects and to do lists. For many, it's spring cleaning. For most, it's yard . . .

Posted: 2009-05-31

Backup generator can be a valuable asset for your home

Q: With the latest winter storm, I found myself in line again at the gas station waiting to fill my portable generator gas cans. Earlier this year you wrote an article about standby home generators that operate with natural gas . . .

Posted: 2015-02-07

Updating home wiring poses special challenges

More problematic than copper, and with rules that may be harder to navigate

Question: I was wondering what the approved methods are in Manitoba for updating devices in a home with aluminum wiring? My research took me to your response to a question in a previous article in the Winnipeg Free Press. I want . . .

Posted: 2017-05-27