MIKE HOLMES: A permit can save you from shoddy work

It's a new year and a lot of people are thinking about resolutions. Some people want to look better, some want to feel better, and some just want their homes to be better. That's what renovations are for. But if . . .

Posted: 2012-01-21

Backsplash alternative simple and stylish

Plastic panels a perfect fit in Mexican-themed kitchen

When the words "kitchen backsplash" are uttered during the design phase of a kitchen remodel, my thoughts usually travel to the same vision — a 12x12-inch mosaic of smaller tile that emulates the colour scheme of the newly chosen cupboards, . . .

Posted: 2020-03-07

Let there be light!

But let it be the right kind

Lighting is one of the most important elements to think about when designing rooms, inside or out. Lighting is both practical and decorative. A variety of lighting options allows us to work and play safely and creates a mood that enhances . . .

Posted: 2008-06-08

Budding professionals

Sowing the seeds for future landscape horticulturists

What does a landscape horticulturist do? The common response might be that a landscape horticulturist is someone who works outdoors and cares for or designs residential landscapes. That’s an important part of what such a professional does, but it only . . .

Posted: 2024-12-07

MIKE HOLMES: A bright idea -- for environment and wallet

There is more energy reaching Earth from the sun every day than we could ever use. It's free, safe and endlessly renewable. Why wouldn't you want to take advantage of it? Getting the power for your home from the sun isn't . . .

Posted: 2009-04-12

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Tree care can help avoid damage to homes

QUESTION: About five feet from the side of our River Heights house there are two young maples trees about four years old. Will the roots from these trees become a problem for the house eventually? Thanks, Lawrence Marmel ANSWER: There are definite . . .

Posted: 2013-08-31

Damaged concrete due to unwanted moisture

Question: Looking to pick your brain, as I cannot find any answers on a foundation issue we are experiencing. We recently found a bit of black mould in our basement. So, we decided to pull off a bit of . . .

Posted: 2023-06-10

Make eco-friendly choices

CALGARY -- Global warming is a contentious topic that gets sensible folk steamed. Every day brings new reports of drastic change to our planet and dire consequences that follow wanton energy consumption and careless human activity. Even if you are inclined . . .

Posted: 2008-07-27

Plenty of options to complete deck

Open or closed, there is usable space down below

Clients have varied reasons for wanting to close-in the area below a newly built deck with skirting, including keeping out the varmints, using the area for storage and perhaps they feel leaving it open looks unfinished. Fortunately, there are a few . . .

Posted: 2019-06-08

Dream home realtor's legacy to Selkirk

It was in 1996 that Doreen Sisto believes her brother Robert went crazy."I don't mean crazy-crazy. I mean he became completely obsessed with a dream to renovate a house he purchased the minute after he walked through it, " said . . .

Posted: 2015-04-25