ASK THE INSPECTOR: Let's vent on best way to improve air flow

QUESTION: We own a two-storey detached home built in the early '70s. We installed a high-efficiency furnace three years ago and noticed paint peeling from the soffits around the southern-facing side of the home shortly thereafter, as well as shingle . . .

Posted: 2012-01-14

Backyard retreat

Building a deck is a sound investment you can enjoy

If you’re thinking of upgrading your home, there’s one upgrade that should be top of mind: installing a deck.There are several reasons why building a deck is a good investment. First, a deck allows you to add living space to . . .

Posted: 2016-05-14

Is Jack Frost nipping at your HRV?

Eco-friendly refit can be a benefit, but must be installed, adjusted correctly

Question -- I read your column regularly and appreciate the assistance you provide the community at large through it. We have had snow buildup occurring on our HRV intake every since we moved into the home in late 2007. The exhaust . . .

Posted: 2009-02-21

Bright idea

Dimmable LED lights let you have more power while using less power

As a homeowner, I can relate to other people’s pesky in-house grievances that need to be addressed: older windows that have lost their seals, failing shingles that cause roof leaks, a rotted deck that requires an update, and so . . .

Posted: 2025-06-14

A condo that feels like home

Wolseley abode oozes character

For young couples or a single professional, finding a solid starter home is tough these days.And if your budget is in the $200, 000 to $225, 000 range, you're usually left with two options: a single-family home that's going to . . .

Posted: 2013-03-02

Painter’s tape helps with sticky situation

Bathroom silicone replacement made easy

One of the aspects of tub and shower ownership, is the eventuality of silicone failure. No matter the diligence in ensuring to dry areas of the tub, at some point the silicone along the perimeter of the tub will . . .

Posted: 2023-02-04

MIKE HOLMES: Tax credit battles 'grey market'

A win-win for both contractors and homeowners

Most homeowners have heard by now of the home renovation tax credit, and many are taking advantage of it. The idea of the tax credit is to stimulate local economy by keeping contractors working and keeping building supply retailers busy. It's . . .

Posted: 2009-06-07

Green can be grand

Home combines amazing efficiency with stunning style

When it comes to new homes, one key aspect of designs is all too often overlooked: what lies behind the walls and underneath the floors. As exciting as it is to ogle hardwood floors, granite countertops and finely crafted cabinetry, those . . .

Posted: 2010-12-18

Highs and lows of tar and gravel roofing

Question: We own a home that was built in 1964. We love many aspects of the home, especially its unique design. It has a 2/12 pitch roof that has the original tar-and-gravel material. We feel like the time has come . . .

Posted: 2016-02-27

Coffee, wine bars latest big thing in today's deluxe kitchens

When lucky homeowners with gourmet tastes and champagne budgets update their kitchens, they are cooking up some innovative features and designs. "Coffee bars and wine bars are really a big trend now, " says Beverley Binns, designer at Toronto's Binns Kitchen . . .

Posted: 2009-04-19