Home projects to get you ready for fall

There’s still plenty of time to cross projects off your summer to-do list. According to HomeAdvisor data, homeowners commonly start these projects around the beginning of September: Decks and porches: Between foot traffic and sun exposure, your deck can take a . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

Bathroom reno leads to urinal envy

Existing plumbing made installation a breeze

It occurred to me last week during a meeting with a potential client, that I have never actually detailed in one of my weekly columns how the existing portion of my second-floor bathroom had been modified during the studio expansion. The . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

Lighter colours can transform a space

Kitchen, dining room reno makes area feel bigger

My good friend Bea Broda — formerly of CKND fame here in Manitoba, and now an extremely accomplished travel journalist and host of the TV show Outta Town Adventures, and the star of the film Captivating Carla (hey, she’s earned . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

How to make sure your fried chicken is crispy, not soggy

Question: Do you have any ingredients that I can add to chicken batter to make crispy fried chicken, so that it isn’t soggy? — Cassidy Answer: Certainly! For crispy chicken, use half flour and half cornstarch, along with your usual seasonings and . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

Creating a year-round workshop

How to convert an uninsulated area into a comfortable space

Question: I live in one of the newer developments in Winnipeg. I believe the house was built in 1996 or 1997. I am also a hobbyist woodworker, so I have left the basement unfinished and use it as my workshop. I . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

A flexible fit for your family

Fall Parade of Homes entry offers style and value

Growing families face a distinct set of challenges in their search for a new home. On one hand, they need a good-sized home capable of accommodating the varying needs of their young family as it grows. On the other, in many . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

A home with a view

Rooftop patio the crowning jewel of this infill gem

Take a drive through Elmwood and you’ll pass by homes that fall consistently into the 30 to 100-year-old range. Imagine, then, coming across a modern-looking home — with rooftop patio, no less — that stands out from its venerable neighbours. As . . .

Posted: 2018-09-08

Is it worth fixing that old microwave oven?

Expert answers burning questions about household appliances

Wayne Archer, who fixed appliances for 20 years and now provides DIY help for appliance and lawn and garden equipment through Sears Parts Direct, joined staff writer Jura Koncius last week on the Washington Post’s Home Front online chat. Here . . .

Posted: 2018-09-01

Exterior home security cameras pay off in peace of mind

Rachel Murray, a security-system specialist for Prudential Alarm in Oak Park, Ill., said people often install security cameras in their homes to watch their pets, children and elderly relatives — right from their cellphone or computer. Others believe exterior security devices . . .

Posted: 2018-09-01

Weeding out the most toxic kinds of vegetation

Plants cannot run from existential threats. They have to sit there silently and take a licking. But they’re not stupid. Many grow armour of sorts — though how deer can devour rose thorns without leaving a trail of blood has always . . .

Posted: 2018-09-01