A dry basement is a cornerstone of a healthy home environment. Yet, many homeowners overlook a critical aspect of ensuring a dry basement: exterior grading and water control. In regions like Ontario, where heavy rainfall and snowmelt are common, effective water management around the perimeter of your home is essential to prevent water penetration into the basement. Let’s explore why …
In the realm of home safety, few devices are as crucial as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. These small, often overlooked gadgets serve as vigilant guardians, alerting us to potentially life-threatening situations. In Ontario, where safety regulations are stringent, the importance of these alarms cannot be overstated. Let’s delve into why these alarms are so vital and how …
Introduction In the 1970s, stucco ceilings, also known as popcorn ceilings or acoustic ceilings, were a popular choice for many homes and commercial spaces. This textured ceiling finish was not only fashionable but also provided acoustic benefits by reducing noise levels. However, what was once a trendy design element now poses a potential health hazard. Many stucco ceilings from that …
Renovating an older home can be an exciting endeavour, offering the opportunity to breathe new life into a cherished property. However, before you embark on any remodelling project, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with asbestos, a hazardous material commonly found in older buildings. While asbestos poses a health threat when disturbed, it can be …
You can take steps to reduce and control the amount of radon in your home. Testing is the only way to determine radon levels. Have your home tested by a professional. EPA guidance suggests mitigating if levels are at or above 148 Becquerels/meter3 (4 picocuries/liter). The effectiveness of any one radon-reduction method will depend upon the unique characteristics of your …
Well, crawlspaces like any other home component are there for a reason. The typical reason is that a basement was not required, a basement was not allowed due to high water tables or just because it saved someone money. It is rare to see crawlspaces in new construction now just because a finished basement adds living space and value to …
As Canadians, one of the largest expenses comes from heating our homes in the winter months. In older homes which are poorly insulated this may come at an even larger expense. That is why it is imperative that we maintain our HVAC systems. Most furnaces are going to be fuelled by natural gas; fewer are fueled by oil and electricity …
Cold rooms were designed to be underground, typically under a porch, and their purpose is to be cold enough to store preserves and other food. Since they are below a porch, they are technically underground spaces that are on the exterior of a home, hence they have no insulation but do have ventilation to allow for air exchange. The way …
Wood has been used as a primary heating source by humans for eons. Now, wood burning systems are mostly used as a secondary heat source or to create a cozy environment. There are many different types of wood burning systems and each one has its own unique characteristics. In this post, we will concentrate on two types of wood-burning systems, …
Fitted carpets have been used in houses for many years as they offer warmth and soft flooring material for family members to walk on. Carpet is a magnet for allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mold spores and other potentially aggravating proteins. Allergens are antigens, typically proteins, that provoke allergic reactions like coughing and sneezing in people with hypersensitive immune …
