Structural engineer required to evaluate foundation

Question: I wonder if you could provide some advice for a problem we are having with our lakefront family cottage. This small 28x24-foot cabin was moved onto a poorly constructed pony wall foundation 13 years ago. The four-foot high pony . . .

Posted: 2021-03-20

What's that stirring in the house? A mouse?

Tips for getting rid of rodents coming in from the cold

Ah, the pitter-patter of little feet overhead. Wait a minute, the kids aren’t home. And haven’t been for years. But somebody’s kids are, and not just their kids, but grandkids and great-grandkids. Rats and mice are an amorous lot, producing multiple . . .

Posted: 2009-11-28

CONNIE OLIVER: Contrasting colours really pack a punch

If you want to pack some punch into your decor and make a statement, then using the effects of contrast is the way to go. The eye will focus longer on contrasting colours, thus making whatever you're painting a memorable . . .

Posted: 2014-04-26

Home inspectors, building officials have separate roles

Question: I am in the process of purchasing a unit in a new 48-unit residential condominium. It is being sold as a two-bedroom unit, but the second bedroom does not contain a window. It has a closet and is the . . .

Posted: 2018-01-27

MIKE HOLMES: A hand for cash-strapped homeowners

Choices are hard. I talk with many homeowners who can't decide between marble or porcelain tile, or granite and composite countertops. But for some families the choices are even harder: like paying bills on time or buying food. And, . . .

Posted: 2009-09-06

Time for a home safety drill, say fire chiefs

DOES your family have an evacuation plan in case of a house fire? You should. Having a fire escape plan and practising it at home can make the difference between getting out alive or a family tragedy, says the Canadian . . .

Posted: 2010-11-20

Drainage slope away from foundation always prudent

Question: I read your recent article in the Free Press about how to properly maintain the slope away from the house. I would like to ask you a question and will appreciate your answer. I did understand that the best . . .

Posted: 2022-06-18

Lightning rods spark interest

Mustard meets a fellow current collector

There was lightning, thunder and what felt like a tsunami this past Monday at Mustard Manor — it was as memorable as they come. It was almost as if the “powers that be, ” whatever they are, sent me a . . .

Posted: 2022-07-30

Sauna insulation causes permit issues

Questions: I’m writing you in your capacity as a home inspection expert with a vexing question I hope you can answer. We have hired you in the past to inspect our home, so we have been your clients in . . .

Posted: 2022-11-26

Thirfty handyman saves big bucks

Homeowners can save a stack of cash on renovations by using elbow grease and sourcing recycled or sale-priced building materials, cabinets and furnishings.Marc Gregoire and his wife, Julieta Hernandez, calculated they saved thousands of dollars renovating the interior and exterior . . .

Posted: 2014-11-29