Winnipeg Free Press

Making sure you measure up to the task

HERE are 15 tips to make sure you measure up. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

1. A local solution to builders' worker shortage

   A few weeks ago, this column dealt with the pending skilled labour shortfall in the construction industry. The Canadian Construction Sector Council projected a need for 10,000 new people to enter the construction workforce between now and 2016. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

2. How much stuff can garage trusses hold?

   Question -- I have Howe-type roof trusses in my 30-year-old garage and was wondering what type of storage load I can put up between the trusses? Is there a formula? If so, can I put more on the sides or middle? Can I store more or less if the ceiling is finished? I have seen some attics very full and wonder how safe that is. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

3. Timber!

   Picture this: it's been a long, exhausting day. After finishing work, you drive back home to your residence in southeast St. Vital, just outside the Perimeter. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

4. 10 ways to cut power use

   OTTAWA -- Cutting energy use is the easiest way to reduce your reliance on the grid. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

5. Sold!

   Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

6. Green driveway cuts pollution

   OSHAWA, Ont. -- It's the latest thing in high-tech driveways, replacing that ugly black asphalt with an environmentally-friendly substitute that filters out impurities and keeps salt, sealants and other noxious chemicals out of municipal sewer systems. Updated 12:25 AM 08/03/08

7. Good neighbour, good fence

   Pool or no pool, sunbathing in a Speedo in your backyard requires at least one home improvement -- out of respect for your neighbours. If you've already got a fence to fend off prying eyes of passersby, read no further. If you don't, you should and not just because spandex is a fashion friend you shouldn't "hang out with" in plain sight. Updated 10:27 AM 07/28/08

8. Grass-free zone replaces mowing, watering

   MONTREAL -- It is the ultimate suburban icon: an emerald, weed-free lawn. However, for one couple, that icon represents an environmental no-no that requires water and energy to power a mower. Updated 10:53 AM 07/28/08

9. Designing on a shoestring

   DEAR Debbie -- My partner and I have just moved into our first apartment and have very little money to fix it up. You are so great at decorating on a shoestring, can you give us some tips please? We have hardwood floors, and both like earth tones. Thanks.
   -- Robin Updated 10:58 AM 07/28/08

10. Make eco-friendly choices

    CALGARY -- Global warming is a contentious topic that gets sensible folk steamed. Updated 11:03 AM 07/28/08

11. Insulation easy way to upgrade

    So, you're in a quandary. Updated 11:05 AM 07/28/08

12. Toxics among common scents

    SEATTLE -- The fumes that waft from top-selling air fresheners and laundry products contain dozens of chemicals, including several classified as toxic or hazardous, says a University of Washington study published last week. Updated 11:08 AM 07/28/08

13. Many causes for plumbing odour

    Q: We purchased a five-year-old, three bathroom, cab-over home two years ago and noticed an unpleasant odour in one of the bathrooms. This odour appears to be worse in winter. We checked the floor for mildew, etc., when we had the bathroom floor tiled this winter and there were no problems. The toilet does not have a slow leak. Updated 11:11 AM 07/28/08

14. Technology makes green innovations in the home

    NEW YORK -- A decade of quantum technological leaps mean today's designers have in their hands a virtually bottomless toy box of new materials and methods. Updated 11:14 AM 07/28/08

15. Choosing right pattern is delicate balancing act

    Adding pattern to your decor can bring an interesting new dimension to a mundane space. Whether you choose to bring it into your space through the use of wallpaper, faux paint techniques, upholstery or window treatments, pattern can turn an OK space into something quite dramatic. Updated 11:17 AM 07/28/08

16. Make sure basement reno is a space you'll love to be in

    A common phenomenon in houses of the super-rich is creating extravagant basement additions. Never mind using your cellar as a wine store. Now it's all about digging two, three or even four underground levels for home gyms, swimming pools, media rooms, playrooms, squash courts and additional laundry, storage and bathrooms. Updated 11:26 AM 07/28/08

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