Earlier this week I got the chance to try the 18 volt cordless electric chainsaw you see here on some hard maple firewood logs. I know cordless tool battery technology has come a long way, but has it come far […]
Continue ReadingHOW-TO STACK FIREWOOD: Round Piles Offer Big Advantages
UPDATED 17Aug2018: After almost 20 years of stacking firewood in square or linear piles, I discovered that stacking in round piles is not only easier and more stable, it’s also far more attractive. I’ve been doing it now for more than five […]
Continue ReadingWINTERIZING WATER SYSTEMS: Simple System Is 100% Reliable
Dealing with a seasonal water system may be the least enjoyable part of owning a lakeside home or rural getaway, but it doesn’t have to be this way. The frustration and uncertainty endured draining water pipes in the fall and […]
Continue ReadingSTONE HOME FINALE: Watch Video of Last Stone Being Laid
In July 1987, I laid the first stone in what would be the basement of my homestead house on Manitoulin Island, Canada. On July 26, 2018 I laid the last stone in the last of four peaks in this stone […]
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HOUSE & HOME: Two Properties With Two Great Video Stories
When it comes to houses, there are two ways to look at things. You can see a house simply as shelter and a place to keep your stuff, or you can see it as an energizing, beautiful refuge of comfort […]
Continue ReadingSUCCESS & FAILURE: How “Personal RPM” Affects Your Life
When people ask me what I do for a living, the conversation usually goes like this . . . I explain that for 20+ years I’ve supported my wife and five kids family with a combination of digital work and […]
Continue ReadingOUTDOOR WOOD FINISHING: Favourite One-Time Treatment Now With Colour
The big problem with outdoor wood is that it’s more of a pain to keep finished than most people realize. This is especially true if you’re the kind of person who wants to minimize home maintenance but have never lived […]
Continue ReadingVIDEO: Homestead Wildlife – Endangered Turtle Rescue
Watch as Steve and Jake bring a rare Blanding’s turtle back to the lake.
Continue ReadingQ&A of the Week: What Replacement Skylight Do You Recommend?
Q: My current skylight is damaged and needs to be replaced. Can you recommend a reliable brand and installer? A: There are many brands of skylights out there, but I’ve never seen any that match the quality of VELUX. I’ve installed […]
Continue ReadingSOLAR GENERATORS: Build-It-Yourself Plans Beat Ready-Made
Have you ever heard about solar generators? They’re an up-and-coming portable energy technology that lets you make modest amounts of electricity without connection to the utility grid and without burning any fuel or making any noise.
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