MIKE HOLMES: Take renewable energy off the back burner

We all want to reduce our environmental footprint and be more responsible about what we buy, how we build and how we live. I make it a point to spec in sustainable materials in all the houses I design and . . .

Posted: 2010-06-05

Follow simple principle on heating systems

Question: I have read a lot of your articles, and have found them to be very informative. I was wondering if you could help me out with a little dilemma. I am presently finishing the 1, 000-square-foot basement in my 16-year-old . . .

Posted: 2015-02-07

Chalky powder on concrete floors not always bad

Question: We have been in our house for 38 years. When we first moved in, we put down tiles in half the basement, under the pool table, and carpeting on the other half. In the last few years I have . . .

Posted: 2020-01-11

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Temper your indoor temperature expectations

QUESTION: I own a 1-3/4-storey home with no basement, but a small crawl space. I installed a new high-efficiency furnace a year and a half ago. Over this past winter, my tenant complained that it got very cold overnight in the . . .

Posted: 2014-02-01

CONNIE OLIVER: Good things in small spaces

Make little decor fantasies come true in unused nooks

Even the tiniest of spaces can become dazzling features in your home. This Kohler bathroom shows how even a little nook can be utilized to provide huge impact. The Old Hollywood-inspired vanity alcove is a wonderful over-the-top feature in this luxurious . . .

Posted: 2009-04-26

Kitchen updates don’t have to cost a fortune

KITCHEN renovations are one of the most expensive updates to make. If your cabinets are in good shape, you can probably get away with a mini makeover rather than a full-blown reno. If you’re dealing with dated wood cabinets that are . . .

Posted: 2015-07-18

Have it your way

New home options cover the waterfront

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR inspiration to help design your dream home, you'll find plenty of it during the Fall Parade of Homes. The latest and greatest style trends, design features, materials and nuts-and-bolts construction methods and innovations are on full . . .

Posted: 2019-09-07

Shower stall upgrade takes messy turn

Massive pipe blockage found during bathroom project

The job began much like most other shower stall upgrade projects: an initial meeting with the clients to discuss their ultimate reno objectives, how in-depth the demolition will be, and of course choosing the desired tile, shower faucet and sliding . . .

Posted: 2019-01-19

Kitchen renos require counter intelligence

It's not contagious, but it's strangely common among kitchen renovators: countertopitis. Symptoms can include everything from confusion and indecisiveness to budget-bashing and general feelings of denial. Hunting for the right kitchen countertop can drive anyone a little over the edge, especially since . . .

Posted: 2013-06-01

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Don't get cracking just yet to replace floor

QUESTION: I am in the process of having a house built for me by a contractor and have a question that maybe you can help me with. The house construction took place during the winter months and everything was moving . . .

Posted: 2011-07-16