March 2010(Issue #1)
Space: January 19
Material: January 26
Published: February 26
Installing the 50-Year Roof
Asphalt shingle quality in on the rise, and top-end shingles now boast a 50-year, and sometimes even a lifetime warranty. But to get full value out of this material, you need to do more than just nail down the shingles. We’ll show our readers first-hand how to do a top-notch shingling job.
Correctly Installing Skylights
Documenting the installation of four skylights in an attic loft. Information on choosing skylights, framing for them and installing them.
Going Geothermal
Properly installed, these systems can significantly reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gases and other pollutants while having a minimal impact on the environment. Exploring the different types of systems, picking the right installer, and discussing rebates available.
The Turkish Cottage
Turkish antiques, a harem room, horse blanket rugs, evil eyes, dark colour palette, traditional lantern lights.
Bathroom Products Spotlight
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Windows, Skylights, Indoor Air Quality, Foundations, Skid Steers, Backhoes, Awnings, Shutters, Storage Systems Solutions, Interior Paint, Wallpaper, Drywall, House Wrap, Exterior Cladding, Window Films, Hot Tubs, Ponds and Water Features, Energy Star Appliances, Septic Tanks and Solutions, Flooring Trends, Spring Cleaning Products, Countertops, Cordless Tools.
April 2010(Issue #2)
Space: March 09
Material: March 16
Published: April 19
Line Trimmers and Brush Cutters
Tips on choosing and using these indispensable outdoor power tools. Recent developments in engine design make trimmers quieter, more economical and much cleaner burning. Readers will finish the article understanding the difference between line trimmers and brush cutters, and how to get the most from each one with a variety of accessories.
Trickle Irrigation
A simple, economical and environmentally-sound technology to water gardens. How to irrigate as efficiently as possible, using the smallest possible pump and most meager water supplies.
Muskoka Lake House
Windows and doors with transoms, engineered hickory flooring, tumbled marble, bead board wainscoting, detailed trim work, tongue and groove pine ceilings, ensuite bathrooms, sun room, eight-foot-high windows and floor-to-ceiling granite fireplace.
3000-Square-Foot Condominium Townhouse
Asian teak flooring, crown moulding, stainless steel lighting, four-poster bed, his and hers en-suite bathroom with his and hers above-counter hand basins, cinema-style home theatre with 103-inch projection screen and oversized leather recliners.
Oakville Surprise
Beyond the door of a classic stone and stucco façade lies an expansive,
open and thoroughly modern interior. Prairie-style windows with
shutters, peaked portico, floor-to-ceiling plate glass windows,
microsuede sofa, oak paneling, kitchen island, glazed cabinets,
stainless steel appliances, grey porcelain backsplash, modern artwork,
pocket doors, master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing area.
Customized Pre-Fab Homes
Exploring “mass customization” as a means of boosting the prefabricated home industry.
Victoria Kitchen and Entrance Renovation
Arched transom, clerestory windows, built-in cabinetry, 14-foot-long
island, stainless steel appliances, compactor, microwave drawer, glass
pendant lights, mix of glossy and matte tiles, crystal chandelier,
feature fireplace and television wall.
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Brick, Mortar, Stucco, Vinyl, Faux Stone, Roofing and Gutters, Decks, Docks, Railings, Stain, Landscaping Tools and Equipment, Trailers and Accessories, Spring Storage, Cooling Options, Pools, Outdoor Living, Patio Furniture, Patio Heaters, Interlocking Stone, Patterned Concrete, Enviro-Friendly Outdoor Cleaning, Garden and Yard Accents, BBQs, Air Conditioners, Exterior Paints and Stains, Exterior Lighting, Sheds and Covers.
June 2010(Issue #3)
Space: May 4
Material: May 11
Published: June 14
Understanding and Installing a Water Pump System
How to choose between the three main water pumps available, explaining the strengths and weaknesses of each. The article will also cover all the details needed to install a water system that's easy to service, troubleshoot and drain for winter. Also discussing solar-powered water pump systems.
Container Gardening
Outdoor pots, planters, hanging baskets and window boxes. Sharing some insights on what works, what doesn't, and how to get the most from all the container gardening options.
Rustic Home in Milton
Two-family home with glass-enclosed indoor pool complete with skylights and overhead timber beams, heavy timber trusses, cathedral and coffered ceilings, 11-foot-high, double sided fieldstone fireplace with built-in wood and glass cabinetry, large pantry, terra cottage tiles and raw granite backsplash in kitchen, U-shaped island, wood and glass cabinetry, cedar and stone cladding, metal roof, large windows, chandeliers, wall sconces, antique furnishings, radiant floor heating, accent lighting, custom plaster mouldings on ceilings, stamped tin ceilings, rounded entry doors, birch and marble flooring, fireplace in ensuite with a thermal tub with lighting system.
Landscaping Masterpiece
Two-tiered water feature, natural stone gas fireplace, large flagstone patio framed by limestone boulders, new gardens and plantings.
Exciting Scientific Developments for the Home and Cottage
Ever wonder how the latest scientific discoveries will change the way you live? We'll tell you about using paint to kill germs, building homes without harvesting trees, lighting at low cost, high-efficiency refrigerators, and we'll raise a toast to unbreakable glass.
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Generators, Outdoor Entertaining, Gazebos/Cabanas, Patio Living, Outdoor Kitchens & Appliances, Sound Systems, Exterior Lighting, Cooling Options, Ceiling Fans, Garage Doors, Games Rooms, Interlocking Stone, Retaining Walls, Water Well Equipment and Filtration.
August 2010(Issue #4)
Space: June 22
Material: June 29
Published: August 03
Sharpening Tools
New equipment is on the market that makes the job of sharpening all kinds of hand tools - plane blades, chisels, pocket knives and draw knives - much easier and quicker. We’ll show readers how they can sharpen edge tools better than most pros, with just a few minutes work.
Building a Cabin/Bunkie
A detailed look at how to build a simple, sturdy, classic cabin, with a design and detailed plans, along with direction on how to solve the building challenges.
Bats: Environmentally-Friendly Bug Controllers
Whether you are at the home or cottage, chances are you are benefiting from bats who are efficient, not to mention environmentally-friendly, controllers of bugs. Discussing their benefits, dispelling myths, and how to build a bat box.
Designing for Natural and Artificial Light
Explaining the use of LEDs, CFLs and daylighting to increase energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Bathroom Makeovers, Faucets, Laundry Rooms, Soundproofing, Interior Lighting, Home Office, Doors and Locks, Tools, Heating Options, Radiant Heating, Insulation, Workshops, Boathouses, Recreational Vehicles, Outdoor Fireplaces, Ceiling Treatments, Furniture and Accessories, Insulated Concrete Forms.
October 2010(Issue #5)
Space: August 17
Material: August 24
Published: September 27
Installing Trim 101
Tricks for installing trim quickly and well, with minimal tools, and a discussion on air nailer technology.
Renovating Out of the Maze
Transforming a maze of tight, cramped spaces into an open, modern and family oriented home. Custom solid fir exterior doors and mud room. Kitchen has new island with ample seating, recessed lighting, under-cabinet and pendant lighting, custom coloured glass mosaic, granite countertops and frosted mirror door panels. Master suite has radiant-heat tile floors, granite countertop, custom cabinetry, custom bed and silk drapery, chandelier. Ensuite has glass mosaic surrounding a free-standing tub beneath a skylight. Home office and media room with integrated projector and speaker systems.
Renovation and Automation
Whole house automation system with iPod, radio and CD integration, integrated temperature control and security system accessible via Internet. Kitchen makeover with maple cupboards, cabinetry hiding a walk-in pantry, granite-topped island, ceramic tile backsplash, wet bar in theatre room, oak and dark-stained birch flooring, living room/home office, crown moulding, outdoor gardens and pool, earth-toned colour scheme.
Arts and Crafts Home Reno
Adapting an Arts and Crafts home to modern life – without losing consistency. Three fireplaces, original brass and alabaster sconces, oak trim, stained glass.
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Fireplaces, Flooring, Interior Water Features, Flooring, Vacuums, Dining Rooms, Home Theatre, Kitchens, Faucets, Appliances, Snow & Ice Removal, Vacuums.
November 2010(Issue #6)
Space: October 12
Material: October 19
Published: November 22
Pneumatic Tools
Long considered for pros only, air powered sanders, wrenches, spray guns and sand blasters are emerging onto the DIY scene. We’ll show readers how these tools compare with electric versions, how to choose pneumatics and how to select a compressor. Information on plumbing a compressed air system offers real-world tips on how to safely do this not-so-straight-forward job.
Tankless Water Heaters
A primer on the pros and cons of this promising new technology. Special mention of systems that make the most sense for cottage and rural properties, plus information on tankless water heaters that do double-duty for space heating.
Infill Housing
Exploring how infill housing recognizes the opportunity to focus on the quality of the space within a home while creating a walkable community.
New Victorian Home
Surrounded by many homes built in the 1920’s, this ‘100-year-old, brand new’ Victorian style home fits in with the crowd. Curved doors, curved glass transoms, radiant heating, engineered wood flooring, modern artwork, gymnasium, sauna, two home offices, breakfast nook, master ensuite with clawfoot tub, maple wood flooring, cathedral-style roofline.
Urban to Rural
Year-round ex-urban house is transformed into a weekend retreat, through decor choices, enlarged windows that embrace the large amount of land and views surrounding the house. A non-working fireplace is made operable and clad in stone to make it a focal point.
OF SPECIAL INTEREST
Small Appliances, Moulding Choices, Compressors, Home Security, Drywall, Builder Software, Decorative Paneling, Columns, Tools, Construction Equipment, Builders’ Storage.