Buying a rental property sounds like a smart move. You expect steady rent payments, tax benefits, and long-term value. But many new landlords face one major problem: They underestimate the true cost of owning a rental. These aren’t just one-time…
If you’re planning to build a new backyard deck this year (or refurbish an old one with a good frame but rotted top), you’re probably about to make a mistake. Several mistakes, actually. The reason is because standard deck building…
Got a seasonal water system to put away for the winter? Watch the video below to learn about a fast, fool-proof way to winterize pipes inside your place. It even works with washing machines, dishwashers and water dispensers. Perfect for…
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, explains solutions to a common problem during Canadian summers: wood doors swelling and sticking.
Woodworking machines are great, but there’s more of a place for hand tools than many home woodworkers realize. Click above to watch how I refine the angled edge (called the “bevel”) for some raised door panels using a sharp hand plane….
Question: How should I arrange the heating ducts as I convert an unfinished basement space into a couple of bedrooms? Right now the heating ducts are up at the ceiling. Should I extend them down to floor level? Do I…
Watch a 5 minute video of Steve’s Manitoulin Island garden. It’s June now, and there’s lots to see and hear and smell.
You’re probably not a professional wood finisher, but if you’re interested in finishing wood well, you need to know about a very simple, inexpensive, reliable and effective spray gun called the Critter. I’ve used and tested many brands and types…
If you’re the kind of person who values the virtues of kindness, patience and selflessness, you probably don’t always live up to the values you claim to hold. Despite popular misconceptions to the contrary, human hearts don’t naturally embody these qualities. People…
If you own a summer cottage, you know there’s always a lot to do when closing up for the winter. That’s why it’s good to look for ways to make the job more effective. When I began my cottaging career…
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, provides his top 4 tips for achieving the best bathroom renovation including ventilation and waterproofing.
Click below to watch me apply a new, coloured version of a favourite outdoor wood finish of mine. It’s called Ecowood Treatment. Join me as I apply the “weathered wood” version to a new white cedar picnic table. I’ve never used…