Sealing chase at top of building enclosure should stop moisture

Question: I have a question about what to do about moisture collecting on the underside of the metal cap of my false chimney chase. The entire chase has insulation and vapour barrier, but it would be considered a cold zone. . . .

Posted: 2020-02-08

Walking the plank

Quality product well worth the added expense

During a recent kitchen expansion and remodel, my clients also wanted to replace the existing flooring on the majority of their main floor. Other than the tiled bathroom, this included the new kitchen area, sunken dining room, front foyer, and . . .

Posted: 2020-04-11

These BLUES elevate MOODS

Bold colours make kitchen soar to new heights

When asked to provide an opinion on how to populate a space aesthetically, a strategic deflection is often the best response. After all, we all have different wants and tastes. For instance, my preferred palette revolves around earth-tones, and . . .

Posted: 2023-11-04

Problem underfoot well in hand

A little foresight goes a long way when fixing floor-tile issues

Over time, tiles of a well-travelled floor can slowly begin to loosen, providing a slight shifting sensation beneath your feet. When not addressed in a timely fashion, this motion can cause tiles to crack, resulting in much bigger problems. It’s always . . .

Posted: 2019-05-18

Bedroom ensuite adds sweet value to home

FOR many homeowners, nothing beats the convenience of having an ensuite bathroom in a master bedroom. Whether it's a basic three-or four-piece configuration, or a luxurious spa-like bathroom with features such as a steam shower, ensuites are all the rage. Along with . . .

Posted: 2011-03-26

Must I heat the cottage over the winter?

Question: We are thinking of running no heat in our cabin this year, first time ever. It is normally a furnace-heated cabin, two-storey, built on a crawl space. We always leave the furnace at 10 C, but we . . .

Posted: 2014-09-27

The whole package

Stylish Island Lakes home has thoughtful design

From a design standpoint all homes are certainly not created equally. One home may possess incredible wow factor courtesy of a host of rich finishes, yet the striking features that captured your imagination are then quickly blunted by a mediocre layout. . . .

Posted: 2017-05-20

Keep moisture out of your basement with these three steps

Questions: I’m sure that I must be one of many homeowners with the same question. Last September we moved into our new house in Ridgewood West from the temperate climate of British Columbia. I am worried about the very . . .

Posted: 2022-12-10

Pop the cork

Earth-friendly product has multitude of uses

Whether you are building new, renovating a home or decorating a rental, today's consumers are focused more than ever on earth-friendly, sustainable products. It has become a mantra that is more than a trend, but a way of life that . . .

Posted: 2009-03-29

Keep garlic bulbs fresh and sprout-free

Question: What is the best way to conserve garlic bulbs and prevent them from sprouting? — Raymond Answer: It all begins at the store. Choose the freshest garlic, free from bruises and sprouts. Avoid storing garlic bulbs in a regular residential fridge because . . .

Posted: 2018-05-19