Make better use of your underutilized porch

Manitobans know all too well about the wrath of the mighty mosquito during the summer months. The only way to enjoy the outdoors during this time is to have a screened-in area that allows you to enjoy the warm weather . . .

Posted: 2008-07-20

RENOVATIONS: You'll a-door it

Appealing entranceways can perk up curb appeal

The curb appeal of a house can be enhanced by a single design element homeowners often overlook -- the entranceway door. As a one-of-a-kind furniture maker with 30 years of experience, I'm partial to wood doors; however, there are other choices, . . .

Posted: 2013-02-09

These numbers don’t lie

But they do cover up an OOPS with style

A few weeks ago an unfortunate and unexpected scenario presented itself to my dismay. While familiarizing myself with my new John Deere 3046R tractor, ahead of the impending snowfall and subsequent clearing, my right foot hit the forward pedal . . .

Posted: 2023-01-21

GARDENING: And the winners are...

Exciting award-winning blooms for your 2014 garden

Before a plant receives a gardener's stamp of approval, it must meet rigorous standards. Plant survival is uppermost and from a prairie gardener's perspective, that can mean withstanding record-setting low temperatures in winter or lengthy periods of unrelenting drought in . . .

Posted: 2014-01-25

Wallpaper is back in style

Stylish prints have replaced the drab florals of the 1980s

Wallpaper is ready for its next act. The polarizing paint alternative and longtime decorating taboo has returned to fashion thanks to ultra-stylish prints, dimensional fabrics and new materials that make it easy to install and, yes, to remove. Offering more . . .

Posted: 2017-03-04

Buyer beware not an easy thing to change

Putting onus for inspection on seller requires more in licensing laws

QUESTION -- I read with great interest your recent article on the licensing and certification of home inspectors in a previous edition of the Winnipeg Free Press. It is encouraging that progress is being made to ensure the people who . . .

Posted: 2008-06-01

RENOVATION: Subterranean secrets

Some basement renos should be done by pros

Renovating your basement has several advantages. First, it will force you to jettison all that junk you've assiduously collected and stored in your underground grotto over the years. Second, it will give you hundreds more square feet of living area, and, . . .

Posted: 2012-10-27

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Cottage foundation concerns pose dilemma

QUESTION: I was reading an article about the proper foundation for Manitoba soil on the Internet and was directed to your site through the article. I have a small property in Matlock, close to Winnipeg Beach. We have spent the . . .

Posted: 2010-05-08

Drain cleaning likely cure for offensive odour

I have a question about a sewer and drain smell issue. I have a front-loading washing machine in the basement that drains into the sewer with a trap. It’s about 10 feet from the stack that goes to the roof. . . .

Posted: 2016-03-05

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Tankless water heater turns showers cold

QUESTION: When building our new cabin, which is off the grid, we tried to be as environmental as possible. We have a propane tank which runs our fridge, stove and a Bosch tankless water heater. The water comes from a . . .

Posted: 2010-10-30