My wife and I are building a couple of Muskoka chairs out of eastern white cedar. Since I’m making them fold-able, I plan to store the chairs indoors. What finish provides the best protection against sunlight while enhancing the beautiful […]
Continue ReadingHow can I soundproof the suspended ceiling in my basement?
How can I soundproof the suspended ceiling in my basement? My daughter is moving in and I’m hoping that fiberglass batts installed above the ceiling tiles will keep the sound down. Effective retrofit soundproofing is never a quick and easy […]
Continue ReadingWhat’s your opinion of macerating toilets?
What’s your opinion of macerating toilets? I’m planning to build a two-piece bathroom in a finished basement. Macerating toilet systems allow bathrooms to be built below the level of a drain. They include a toilet that connects to a sealed box […]
Continue ReadingMy husband and I would like to paint our Formica countertop to change its colour. Will this work?
My husband and I would like to paint our Formica countertop to change its colour. Will this work? The cost of a replacement countertop is too high, and our old one remains in good shape. Although I haven’t tried it […]
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How can I replace a load bearing wall to open up a space?
There’s a load-bearing wall between the living room and kitchen in my son’s home and he’d like to open this space up and make one large room. I’ve heard this is possible. Can you offer suggestions for how it can […]
Continue ReadingVIDEO Q&A: Energy Efficient home design
I’m looking to build a new energy efficient home. Do you have any recommendations on energy efficient features that I can incorporate into the design? In this video, I respond to a homeowner looking to build a new energy efficient home who, […]
Continue ReadingWhat kind of coating can I put on some oak stairs to stop dogs and people from slipping?
What kind of coating can I put on some oak stairs to stop dogs and people from slipping? I really don’t want to use carpet. On June 12, 2012, a homeowner from Texas asked me what kind of coating they […]
Continue ReadingBASEMENT HEATING DUCTS Q&A: “How should I arrange heating ducts in my basement?”
Q: 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 […]
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