Chimney removal must include thorough roof repair

QUESTION: We live in a condo built in the late 1980s and it has a zero-clearance fireplace. The fireplace is a metal box with the chimney going through the roof around three to four feet. The chimney was starting to . . .

Posted: 2019-11-09

Grow your own fruits and veggies

Some of the best performers and favourites for 2019

This year, my garden produced the best tasting celery I’ve ever bitten into. Typically, fresh celery isn’t something I like to snack on — either it’s too stringy or has a bitter flavour. Homegrown celery has forever changed my perception. Earlier . . .

Posted: 2019-11-09

Perfected privacy provided with right design

Lattice panels create outdoor room on spacious deck

The implementation of a privacy wall on a deck can provide sought-after privacy from neighbours or a divider from a public thoroughfare. It is not, however, common to use a privacy wall to surround the entire perimeter of a deck . . .

Posted: 2019-11-09

It's all in the finishes

Combination of style and practicality give the Jocelyn the best of both worlds

It’s not often flooring jumps out at you immediately upon walking into a show home. Yet, that’s exactly what happens the moment you step into the generous foyer at 355 Willow Creek Rd. and see the gorgeous grey/black porcelain tile flowing . . .

Posted: 2019-11-09

Riverfront getaway offers luxurious living

If you have a float plane, this home is for you

Drive north on Henderson Highway and you’ll catch glimpses of majestic homes on either side of the road, set well back on wide, deep lots. What you don’t see is the rare homes tucked away behind those homes on supersized lots . . .

Posted: 2019-11-09

Get a grip on those slippery icy sidewalks

Heated mats, printed map vital assets this winter

I’m hoping that because of today’s column, a lot fewer Free Press readers will fall and break an arm, a leg, a hip, or worse yet, a good bottle or two of wine this winter. And just how can I prevent . . .

Posted: 2019-11-02

Commitment to continuing education clear

MHBA places high priority on making sure builders and renovators are up-to-date

Ongoing professional development is a key piece of what differentiates a Manitoba Home Builders’ Association member from other residential construction companies in Manitoba. MHBA builder and renovator members keep up-to-date with current information and trends, the latest best practices and the . . .

Posted: 2019-11-02

Avoid lumpy cheese sauces by adding something acidic

Question: There is nothing better than a hot dish topped with melted cheese. Whenever I make cheese sauce, it becomes stringy and the cheese won’t incorporate into the dish without making a clumpy mess. What am I doing wrong? — Jess Answer: . . .

Posted: 2019-11-02

Remodel improves look, functionality

New shower stall design visually doubles bathroom

The remodelling of an existing four-piece bathroom can often be a daunting task, especially when the services need to be relocated within the space. Sometimes, however, the remodel only entails slight modifications that will greatly improve the room’s look and functionality. This . . .

Posted: 2019-11-02

Washington innovating the apple

Cosmic Crisp is the latest invention bred in the state

What’s apparent in every trade discussion between Washington state’s farmers and nursery growers and Canadian buyers is the ever-present appreciation for the strong trade relationships between the two countries. The Washington state plant breeders, trade specialists and commercialization experts, who work . . .

Posted: 2019-11-02