Get your home ready for winter in 10 steps

Although October can still be flip-flops-and-shorts weather, there are a number of fall maintenance tasks to undertake, no matter what the temperature gauge says. We asked Lucinda Hoe, field services director of the West region for Associa OnCall, for some tips . . .

Posted: 2017-10-28

MIKE HOLMES: Get yourself into hot water -- the right way

Summer's inching its way closer, folks. And this last weekend, I kept hearing one thing over and over again: I want a hot tub. Seems like everybody wants one this season. Most people like hot tubs. Some people love them -- . . .

Posted: 2012-06-23

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Ridge vents may not add much benefit

QUESTION: I am obtaining quotes for installation of new shingles. One contractor's quote included installation of ridge vents. Are these better than the usual roof vents? The contractor also suggested ridge vents on three dormers that don't presently have vents. . . .

Posted: 2012-06-16

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Issues are cosmetic and not worth concern

QUESTION: I would like to ask for your advice on how to safely clean shingles. The Manitoba Maple tree in my neighbours' yard has left a black residue on the shingles on my garage, as well as on the garden . . .

Posted: 2009-09-20

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Removing snow from roof a good idea

QUESTION: I just wanted to contact you for your opinion on the removal of snow from roofs. Since we have a relatively low pitch and quite a lot of snow, is it recommended we remove snow from our rooftop? Thank . . .

Posted: 2011-03-12

Beware potential costs of 'move-in' home

IT'S an expression that realtors often use while promoting a home: "It's in move-in condition." Truth be told, it's rare that any home -- unless it's been extensively remodelled -- falls into that category. For those on a budget -- say, . . .

Posted: 2010-07-10

Removing old material improves roofing install

QUESTION: The roof membrane on my home is old and worn. I am wondering if I can put new membrane on top of the old roof membrane, or if I should remove the old membrane before installing a new one. Your . . .

Posted: 2019-05-04

Cheaper renos may cost more in the long run

With the end of the school year rapidly approaching and summer only weeks away, June tends to be the perfect time for homeowners to turn their attention to sprucing up with some outdoor home renovations. And whether it’s building a . . .

Posted: 2017-06-03

Rooftop battles with Mother Nature

Minor shingle repairs can be done with ease and care

Despite having undertaken many a varied building task throughout the years, an interest in roofing has eluded me. Although the process is easy enough to understand, it’s a job, in my opinion, best left to the roofing professionals. I have . . .

Posted: 2017-06-30

Consult designer before 'floating' a room

Dear Leanne: Recently, I visited a show home that displayed furniture toward the centre of the room. Although I had seen this done with sofas and loveseats before, I hadn't seen this effect in a bedroom. In the master bedroom, the . . .

Posted: 2011-11-12