Until recently, contractors, homeowners, and the general public in the U.S. had little knowledge of the dangers around them as they worked on older buildings. Many historic restorationists who focused on buildings from the 19th and early 20th century knew that the lead commonly used as a binder and colorant in old paint could poison them. In 1971, the U.S. Housing and Urban Development agency (HUD) enacted laws to reduce lead in house dust in federally-assisted housing. It wasn’t until 1978 that the US outlawed the manufacture and application of lead-based paint. Most European countries had done so decades before.

The Canadian population is aging. In the coming decades, seniors (people age 65 and older) will comprise an increasingly larger share of the population, growing from 12% in 2005 to 19% by 2021. As people age, ability and mobility often becomes an issue. At present, 200,000 Canadians are confined to a wheelchair. We can no longer ignore the statistics; we need to start incorporating barrier-free and universal design into the construction of new buildings and homes. …

Hand-held power tools have become an indispensable part of the modern handyman’s and contractors’ toolbox. Power drills are the most commonly purchased hand-held power tool. You can spend from $30 – $400 for a tool that meets your needs. With that dollar range in mind, you may want to ask yourself a few simple questions before you go shopping. These same questions will also apply to most power tool purchases.

With the aim of helping aspiring homeowners avoid some common errors, I want to pass on seven tips.

There are many, many products, services and gadgets that can make the running and maintaining of your home easier. However, many of these are expensive, complicated, and may not live up to the billing. The best “stuff” is usually comparatively inexpensive and easy to install when your home is being built or renovated.

As the cost of running your home continues to go up, there are many ways and places to look for savings.

Your Electrical System, Part 2 With Help From Randy at CQS Electrical

Green building in its current manifestation is primarily hype. The market, quick to jump on the bandwagon, has focused primarily on tangible products that may draw envy from neighbors, but do little to actually preserve precious resources and reduce your energy bills. The real decision to go ‘green’ should start with the decision to minimize the home energy footprint.

Usually after the initial telephone call, followed by the first meeting you will know if you feel comfortable and trust the renovation contractor. However it is important not to make your choice on “feelings” alone.