Sump pumps not the whole story in sewer backups

Position of backwater valve in catch basin system is crucial

QUESTION -- My neighbour and I have had discussions about the subject of backup valves and sump pits for two years now. We live in Brandon and we were flooded in July 2005. Ours is an older neighbourhood, about 30 . . .

Posted: 2008-02-10

A hot pink bedroom? Umm...

Young woman has workable idea, but needs some guidance

I receive many e-mails from kids, particularly girls around 10 years old. They've watched my shows and know that I believe in their innate ability to choose great colours and designs. Our rooms are or should be an extension of . . .

Posted: 2008-02-10

Home run

In-house gyms can be a great thing, if you put some thought into them

THE room smelled like burning tires. Smoke billowed out. My daughter ran out gasping. And so our treadmill eked out its last mile and created its own funeral pyre. Let this be a lesson to those of you contemplating a home . . .

Posted: 2008-02-10

Condos designed to ease transition through the golden years

For sale... but not for profit Volunteers plan North Kildonan 55-plus condos with a twist

CASEY Siepman should be selling pianos. It's what he does for a living, but for the past several months he's been preoccupied with something he considers just as important -- affordable housing for seniors in East Kildonan. "It's sort of taken . . .

Posted: 2008-02-10

Planning pays off

Tight design focus, experienced home builder and a dream house is born

AS a custom home builder with many years of experience, Kurt Streu has designed countless homes. Still, he always appreciates it when his clients know what they want in a new home. "I think it's good when people come to you . . .

Posted: 2008-02-10

Homestuff

IF you're looking for a jetted tub that's as much about function as it is about art, you might want to consider Neptune's series (there are 15 models in all) of minimalist, yet creatively-shaped (and contoured) jetted tubs. . . .

Posted: 2008-02-03

Glass and mirrors --versatile and timeless

Reflective surfaces can offer the perfect touch in kitchen setting

DEAR Debbie -- I've seen a lot of glass and mirror in kitchen displays and wonder if they are just for show. What a cleaning nightmare! Would you use them in your kitchen? -- Marisse DEAR Marisse -- Glass and mirror . . .

Posted: 2008-02-03

Put water woes on ice by drying air inside home

It's the moisture in your home that causes windows to get frosty

QUESTION -- Can you tell me why my four-year old house has ice build up on all the windows? The windows are double pane argon filled. What is causing this and how can I eliminate the problem? This only happens . . .

Posted: 2008-02-03

Don't rush into a kitchen reno -- plan first

RENOVATING a kitchen usually starts with a design for convenience, organization and functionality. The following tips will create a fresh ergonomic kitchen while providing you with an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. 1. There are five basic kitchen layouts: The . . .

Posted: 2008-02-03

Get set for the Spring Parade of Homes

AS we head into February, the days are getting longer and our thoughts are turning to spring. And spring is synonymous with the Parade of Homes. Our Spring Parade of Homes opens on March 8 and runs through to March 23. . . .

Posted: 2008-02-03