Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Could a Daylight Tube Brighten the Hallway?
The ceiling circle is the easy part to point at. The route above it needs a look too.
Read the guideThe Workshop / 75 useful reads
Roofs, walls & weather.
Follow water, air, and heat through an Ontario home. Practical guides to roof repairs, siding, gutters, attic ventilation, and insulation.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
The Garage Door Is Straight. The Floor Has Other Plans.
A strip of daylight does not always mean you need a bigger strip of rubber.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Air Barrier or Vapour Barrier: Which Layer Are You Looking At?
An air barrier controls air movement; a vapour barrier limits diffusion through materials. Identify the existing assembly and its connections before adding plastic, tape or another coating.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Another Layer of Shingles or a Complete Tear-Off?
A shingle overlay is only worth considering when the existing roof, deck, product instructions and local requirements support it. A tear-off offers inspection and repair access that another layer cannot.
Read the guideRoofs, walls & weather4 min read
Before Painting Brick, Check How the Wall Dries
Resolve dampness, salts and damaged masonry before choosing a brick finish. Compare compatibility and future upkeep as carefully as the colour sample.
Read the guideRoofs, walls & weather4 min read
Can New Siding Go Over the Old Cladding?
An overlay only makes sense when the existing wall, attachment and water-management details are understood. Compare the complete assembly before saving the removal cost.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Carpenter Ants in the House: Inspect the Wood as Well as the Insects
Carpenter ants deserve a moisture and timber check as well as pest identification. Separate a wandering ant from a nest, and fix the conditions behind damage.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Cleaning the HRV: The Filters Are Only Part of the Job
Check HRV filters, core, drains and outdoor hoods using the model manual. Keep cleaning separate from airflow balancing and avoid washing an unsuitable core.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Cracks in Stucco: When Is a Patch Not Enough?
A stucco patch is appropriate only after the wall system and cause of damage are understood. Map changing cracks, stains and loose areas before choosing a repair.
Read the guideRoofs, walls & weather4 min read
Does a Shingle Wind Rating Mean the Roof Is Storm-Proof?
A wind rating describes tested shingle performance. Compare the installation requirements, written wind coverage and workmanship terms before choosing a roof.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Double or Triple Glazing? Compare More Than the Pane Count
Compare double and triple glazing using the exact whole-window ratings, opening type and installation scope. Pane count alone does not establish comfort, solar control, usable glass or value.
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Roofs, walls & weather4 min read
Garage Smells Inside the House? Check the Shared Boundary
Recurring garage odours indoors need source control and an assessment of the shared wall, ceiling, door and service penetrations. Air sealing must preserve the required separation and equipment ventilation.
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