Asbestos complicates insulation project

Question — We have an early 1960s bungalow that was moved to our farm near Winnipeg in 1991. At the time, it had only three inches of insulation between the attic rafters, so we had a local company blow in . . .

Posted: 2019-12-14

This deck is on the level

Working on the ground not always easier

Although a ground-level deck may minimize lumber requirements by eliminating the need for railings and a staircase, thereby lowering overall costs— the construction of a low-level deck presents other challenges often overlooked. The framework of a standard deck support system is . . .

Posted: 2020-06-20

On the level

Not all projects are glamorous, but they gotta be done

Throughout my years as a columnist many projects have been featured. Although the subjects have been somewhat mundane at times, the accompanying photos bring it all together and hopefully give the reader some deeper insight into the project. Completion . . .

Posted: 2023-12-02

MIKE HOLMES: You're the best cure for the common code

I often get asked why, when we know how to build things better, we don't change building code to require it. That's a good question. Why, when we know certain standard building methods and materials will lead to problems in . . .

Posted: 2010-08-28

Concrete porchabove root cellarasking for trouble

Moisture, mould constant threats

Question: I hope you can help me. I have a four-by-five front porch with a same size fruit cellar underneath that is attached to my basement. It’s mouldy, wet, etc. I was going to remove the door, then add concrete . . .

Posted: 2017-05-06

Screening porch OK, but what about floor?

Thoughts on solving bug problem without creating others

QUESTION -- I'm planning to screen in the deck at the cottage. It already has an overhang integral to the rest of the cottage. The decking is two by three, with about a half-inch gap between the boards. What's the best . . .

Posted: 2008-08-10

Some major renos require professionals

Consult architect or architectural technologist

Question -- My wife and I are planning to put a one-storey addition on the back of our house and I am going to be doing the work. I have looked through the brochures the city provides for additions and . . .

Posted: 2009-01-31

Older furnace doesn't necessarily require replacement

QUESTION: I recently had a problem with my furnace that turned out to be a worn out sensor. While the man from the heating company was here he noted because my furnace is 15 years old I should seriously be . . .

Posted: 2015-07-11

Twin peaks (and dips)

Identical homes compare energy-saving measures

It looks like a scene from the movie Pleasantville dropped in the middle of Ottawa's National Research Council campus. There are two family homes, complete with lawns and driveways. But no one lives here -- these are labs. Built by Minto almost . . .

Posted: 2012-02-18

Don't flush your money for small plumbing issues

Make sure to know the difference between a serious issue and a nuisance

Question: We live in a raised, three-bedroom, two-bathroom bungalow In Oakbank. Our toilets have always made a loud draining noise — kind of like a suction sound — when we flush. I am wondering if there is a blockage or something . . .

Posted: 2018-09-15