Fixing an icy, leaking roof certainly not a snow job

IT'S -10 outside, your floor's covered in water but you didn't let the bathtub overflow, and there's a new stain on the ceiling. Yup, you really should have done something about that ice on the roof a little sooner. Ice occurs . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Teflon on a paint tray... Why didn't someone think of this before?

IF YOU'VE been frustrated by tedious clean-ups after doing some painting around your home -- especially tidying up those annoying paint trays -- take heart. Now available at Home Depot stores, the SHUR-LINE Paint Tray is no ordinary paint tray. Why? . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Getting mildew out of bathroom tile grout

First step: Take off the soap scum

QUESTION -- We have lived in our lovely home in North Kildonan for over 30 years. The one nagging problem that never ceases to cause us irritation is the tile grouting in our ensuite shower area. We clearly have not . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Efficiency upgrades can trap moisture

Reduce humidity to avoid problems

QUESTIONS: Our home is 50 years old. Last year we had a Hydro home inspection and at that time it was suggested that we purchase a new furnace and add insulation to the attic. We did both and our house . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Eye of the beholder

Popular Montreal-area shop specializes in 'shabby chic'

Whether she is at home or at work, Laurie Gordon is surrounded by the things she loves. At home in her stylish Beaconsfield bungalow west of Montreal, Gordon lives with the same design elements that she sells at Re-Vive Décor Maison, . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

The Southwest angle

Big space calls for bold style

Dear Debbie -- Our home has some unique features such as a large master bedroom with vaulted ceiling and an open family room with nine windows. We've tried to decorate but it just is not coming together. We like a . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

The fusion kitchen

There are no limitations when it comes to design

Kitchen cabinet design has come a very long way. No longer are our choices confined to having matching cabinetry in the kitchen. Yes, the style of cabinetry has varied over the decades but we were always left with a huge . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Reborn in River Heights

Plenty of work pays off for lovely Grosvenor classic

When Paul Unger and his wife bought a 2, 000-sq.-ft. River Heights classic seven years ago, they thought they knew what they were in for. After all, it was clear that the 2 1/2-storey home was in need of some major . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Victorian-style house great for narrow lot

Home's details reminiscent of yesteryear

With its compact footprint, this Victorian-style home, Plan APS-1912 by Home Plans LLC, is a great choice for narrow lots and would be perfect for an established city neighbourhood. Its floor plan covers 1, 985 square feet of living space. Decorative . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14

Living large in a not so big house

Creative design has bungalow punching way above its weight class

Tell a friend you've just purchased a new 1, 400-square-foot bungalow, and they might give you a funny look. Then they come out with the punch line: "Kinda small, don't you think?" On the contrary, a 1, 400-square-foot bungalow -- if designed . . .

Posted: 2009-02-14