The website you’re on now – BaileyLineRoad.com – is named after the little country road where my wife, Mary, and I live and are raising our kids. When people find out both Mary and I grew up in the city […]
Continue ReadingHOME INSULATION: The Invisible Investment
Insulation isn’t pretty, it doesn’t come in designer colours, and it offers no bragging rights. Just the same, investing in insulation is one of the best ways to spend renovation dollars because it pays back forever. Read more to find out how.
Continue ReadingSEPTIC SYSTEM PART 1: How They Work & Why They Stop Working
Millions of people rely on septic systems to handle household waste water, and all these systems are an expensive time bomb waiting to explode. It’s not a matter of if your septic system will fail, but when the thing will […]
Continue ReadingBEAT THE HEAT: Cooler Upstairs Bedrooms in Summer
Is the second story of your home too hot in summer, despite air conditioning that’s running full blast and making lower levels too cold? Click for a real-world solution that solves the problem once and for all.
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Got a Question for Steve?
7 YEAR PRODUCT REVIEW: Fabric Shelter Stands Test of Time
Steve Maxwell researched and installed fabric-covered shelters and shares the knowledge to help homeowners solve their outdoor storage problems.
Continue ReadingCANES & WALKING STICKS: It’s Easy to Whittle Your Own
UPDATED 28APR2017: I’m seeing more and more people walking with canes & walking sticks these days, but none of the factory-made, metal sticks look all that interesting. A home-made, wooden walking stick you whittle yourself is another matter. Even a simple […]
Continue ReadingCOMPOSTING TOILETS: How to Buy One That Actually Works
Steve Maxwell, “Canada’s Handiest Man”, informs cottage owners on choosing and operating an eco-friendly, composting toilet.
Continue ReadingINSTALL A SUBMERSIBLE PUMP: 6 Lessons for Doing It the Right Way
UPDATED 1NOV2017: “How can I install a submersible pump?” If you’re asking this question, then this is the post for you. Read on for all the details. As far as I’ve seen, this is the most complete set of instructions on […]
Continue ReadingQ&A: Is Knotty Pine Good For a Finished Floor?
Q: Is knotty pine a good option for a finished floor? We’ve read your recommendations of this material, and would love to use it, but we’ve been advised not to. We’re told the wood will probably buckle, crack and split […]
Continue ReadingAn Outhouse, a Misunderstanding and Some Laughs
I’ve come to realize that the ability to laugh is the most valuable home improvement skill of all, especially when you’re laughing at yourself. I was reminded of this when I left the city in 1986 to create a home and […]
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