Mike Holmes: A Breath of Fresh Air

Yesterday, Mike Holmes announced that he was teaming up with CertainTeed, a company which manufactures a drywall line that can actually absorb harmful VOCs in the air and convert them into inert compounds, promoting better indoor air quality. What exactly are VOCs and where do they come from? Mike has written many articles pertaining to VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), including this recent article which focuses on identifying and mitigating the sources of these harmful chemical off-gasses. As Mike states, VOCs can come from a variety of household sources, including furniture, synthetic carpets, paints, and pressed wood cabinets. How can we minimize exposure to VOCs? By investing in better building materials, better paints, and natural as opposed to synthetic furnishings, we can greatly reduce the presence of these potentially harmful chemical vapors in our homes. Better products might be more expensive, but they're a greater investment into your home as well as your health.

 

For more information, see yesterday's article, "Mike Holmes Joins Forces with CertainTeed to Tackle Indoor Air Quality Issues" Also, check out previous Holmes Spot blog entry "That "New Car Smell" May Kill You!" for more information from Mike on the harmful effects of VOC's.

 

From the Montreal Gazette:

Mike Holmes: Breath of fresh air

Getting rid of VOCs around your home is a smart move

By Mike Holmes, For Postmedia NewsJanuary 30, 2014

Exposure to VOCs, volatile organic compounds, can cause headaches, dizziness, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, coughing and wheezing.

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are in a lot of the products we put in our homes. Everything from carpeting, cabinets and furniture to the paint on our walls and caulking around our tubs, showers and toilets contain VOCs.
Some materials have more, others less. For example, varnishes and caulking can be heavy on the VOCs, and darker pigments in paint usually have more VOCs than lighter colours. But you can also find VOCs in things like cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, air fresheners, furnishings and even plastics.
Volatile organic compounds, which are really just chemical byproducts, evaporate or off-gas into the air. Sometimes all it takes are a few days for most VOCs to be practically gone from certain products, like spray foam insulation, if properly installed. But in other cases, VOCs can off-gas for weeks, months and even years.
In a home, VOCs can accumulate and become a serious health concern. Breathing them in is dangerous; they can cause headaches and dizziness, but in more severe cases they can be very toxic.
Varnishes, glues and adhesives are among the worse for VOC off-gassing, mainly because of one dangerous ingredient they can contain: formaldehyde. A strong-smelling, colourless gas, formaldehyde can make your eyes burn, irritate your nose, or give you a bit of a sore throat. Being exposed to higher doses can cause coughing or wheezing.
In some cases, formaldehyde has been known to cause more serious symptoms, even some types of cancer. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies it as a known carcinogen.
Back in the ’70s it was used in various building products and materials that used glues or adhesives in their production, like pressed wood. There was also a type of insulation that was made from formaldehyde, Urea-Formaldehyde Foam Insulation, but it was banned in the ’80s.
In the air we breathe, VOCs are a health concern for anyone, so as a smart homeowner, you always want to keep them down to a minimum. You can do that by choosing better, safer products for your home.
Glass, ceramic tile, metal, stone and other hard, inert materials don’t release any VOCs, so they’re smarter choices as far as VOCs go. If you can afford it, always choose custom, solid wood cabinetry with a low- or no-VOC finish, hardwood over vinyl flooring, and natural carpet instead of synthetic.
Avoid materials or products that require dangerous adhesives for their installation, and as I said before, lighter colours for paints — whites are best. Harmony and Emerald by Sherwin-Williams are very good no-VOC paints.
These are different ways you can minimize the amount of VOCs that are introduced into your home. But it’s difficult to avoid them altogether, so what do you do?
Well, now we have new products that can actually contribute to making your home healthier. For example, AirRenew drywall which absorbs VOCs — specifically formaldehyde and other aldehydes — then turns them into inert gases. It’s like a filter on your walls for VOCs. The bonus is that it’s also resistant to fire, mould, moisture, abuse and impact.

It’s a great product to install in a room for a baby or anyone who has asthma or other respiratory issues. But overall, it’s a great product to have in any home because VOCs and indoor air quality issues affect everyone.
As builders, developers, manufacturers and contractors, we have a responsibility to build homes that are safer, stronger and better. And better to me includes healthier — that’s a no-brainer.
I’m glad we have industry leaders that are stepping up their standards and developing products with your health in mind. I’m also glad contractors now have options that not only help them build better homes but also make them better contractors.
But the key here is you, the homeowner. The industry changes when you demand it — contractors like me can’t force it on you. You have to demand better standards from your contractors. Accept only healthy, safe products from manufacturers and suppliers. And trust me, we will make it right and build better homes that do what they are meant to do: keep you and your family safe from what’s inside and out.
Watch Mike Holmes on Holmes Makes It Right on HGTV. For more information, visit makeitright.ca.

© Copyright (c) The Montreal Gazette

Mike Holmes Joins Forces with CertainTeed to Tackle Indoor Air Quality Issues

Mike Holmes loves to use and promote better and smarter building products that are non- or less toxic and friendlier to the environment. Since teaming up with 3M Filtrete brand air filters and the Canadian Lung Association to promote cleaner indoor air and asbestos awareness, indoor air quality (or IAQ) has been a hot-button issue with Mike. Just recently, it was announced that Mike Holmes is officially endorsing a new kind of gypsum drywall created by CertainTeed under the brand name AirRenew. This drywall line not only resists moisture and mold, but also promotes clean indoor air by capturing VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) in the air and converting them into inert compounds. VOC's are chemical off-gases which are released into your home via cabinets, carpets, and paints. That "new car smell" or "new gadget smell" that everybody likes so much are really just toxic chemical vapors off-gassing from the plastics, and can oftentimes lead to headaches, breathing issues, or worse if breathed in over a period of time. Using smart products in your home such as AirRenew drywall can help combat these unwanted chemical vapors and promote cleaner indoor air.

In order to promote this new Holmes-Approved product, Mike Holmes will be appearing with CertainTeed at the International Builders Show on February 5 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

(Hey, guess who else is going to be in Las Vegas on February 5? Me!!! Woo Hoo!)


From CertainTeed.com:

For immediate release:

January 29, 2014

Renowned Building Industry Expert Mike Holmes Joins Forces with CertainTeed to Tackle Indoor Air Quality Issues

(Tampa, Fla.) –Trusted contractor and long-time advocate for healthy homes, Mike Holmes is joining forces with CertainTeed Gypsum to raise awareness of the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) and incorporating high performance drywall products as part of good IAQ design and construction.

CertainTeed’s volatile organic compound (VOC) scavenging drywall line — the AirRenew® IAQ Gypsum Board product family — has been officially designated as a HOLMES Approved Product. The AirRenew product line features exclusive technology that actively helps to clear indoor air by capturing VOCs, specifically formaldehyde and other aldehydes, and converting them into inert compounds, while M2Tech® technology provides moisture and mold resistance to further contribute to a better indoor environment.

“AirRenew helps remove unwanted chemicals from your indoor air – even years after a construction job is done,” said Mike Holmes. “Many things in the home off-gas, from the furniture and paint to the carpeting and cabinets. And breathing in these chemicals on a daily basis may be dangerous to your health. It’s a real concern. But products like AirRenew are ahead of the game. They’re tackling IAQ issues head on. That’s something I can stand behind,” added Holmes.

Mike Holmes will make his premier appearance with CertainTeed in Las Vegas at the International Builders’ Show (IBS) on Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 3 to 4 p.m. (Las Vegas Convention Center, Booth C2127). He will also be collaborating with CertainTeed on a variety of projects that promote the health benefits of building with AirRenew IAQ drywall products and provide further IAQ education to building professionals and homeowners on the importance of indoor air quality. More information on IAQ and best practices for improving IAQ will be featured on Mike Holmes’ website (www.makeitright.ca), CertainTeed’s website (www.CertainTeed.com/gypsum), in retail establishments, videos and social media networks.

Mike Holmes is a professional contractor with over 30 years experience and the host and creator of the hit TV series Holmes on Homes®, Holmes Inspection and Holmes Makes It Right. He’s been named the Second Most Trusted Canadian by Reader’s Digest for two consecutive years and Forbes’ Third Most Trustworthy Celebrity. Through his company, The Holmes Group, Mike Holmes leads an international organization that is dedicated to improving building standard and helping create healthier, stronger homes through key partnerships and product development.

“CertainTeed’s priority is to offer innovative, sustainable building products, so partnering with a well-respected, seasoned building professional like Mike Holmes made sense,” said Dan Kennard, Vice President of Marketing for CertainTeed Gypsum. “He has a proven track record in choosing materials that raise building standards, and his endorsement of AirRenew is also in line with our mutual goal to help create sustainable, healthy indoor environments.”

The AirRenew portfolio of products includes a wide range of performance attributes, such as resistance to fire, mold, moisture, abuse and impact. Specifically, the product line features: AirRenew Essential, AirRenew M2Tech®, AirRenew M2Tech Type X, AirRenew Extreme Abuse and AirRenew Extreme Impact. Each product handles the same as regular gypsum board and does not require special tools to install or finish.

AirRenew products are GREENGUARD® Gold certified and can contribute to indoor environmental quality, recycled materials, and innovation in design credits for green projects. AirRenew contains up to 99 percent total recycled content and may also provide regional materials depending on project location. In addition, AirRenew products have received Environmental Claims Validation (ECV) from UL Environment for permanent formaldehyde absorption, mold resistance, recycled content and regional materials.

Offering a broad range of gypsum and finishing products for interior and exterior needs, CertainTeed Gypsum has served the North American building industry for more than 80 years and is a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, the world’s leading producer of gypsum products. This, in combination with the full range of affiliated CertainTeed Corporation building products, provides architects, contractors, builders and dealers one partner to provide service and support for commercial and residential building projects. For more information, visit www.certainteed.com/gypsum.

About CertainTeed

Through the responsible development of innovative and sustainable building products, CertainTeed, headquartered in Valley Forge, Pa., has helped shape the building products industry for more than 100 years. Founded in 1904 as General Roofing Manufacturing Company, the firm's slogan "Quality Made Certain, Satisfaction Guaranteed," quickly inspired the name CertainTeed. Today, CertainTeed® is North America’s leading brand of exterior and interior building products, including roofing, siding, fence, decking, railing, trim, insulation, gypsum and ceilings.

A subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, the world’s largest building products company, CertainTeed and its affiliates have more than 5,700 employees and more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada. For five consecutive years, the company has received top honors from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its contributions in protecting the environment and was most recently the recipient of the 2013 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award. The group had total sales of approximately $3.3 billion in 2013. www.certainteed.com

About The Holmes Group

The Holmes Group is an international brand with operations in independent media production, new-home building and home inspection, as well as expansion into product development. The Holmes Group is entirely owned by Mike Holmes and responsible for developing and managing all HOLMES branded entities, including Make It Right Productions Inc., HOLMES Communities, HOLMES Approved Homes, MIKE HOLMES Inspections, HOLMES Referred Contractors, HOLMES Products, HOLMES Workwear and The Holmes Foundation.

For more information, visit www.makeitright.ca.

Record Ratings for the DIY Network

January 2014 has been a very good month ratings-wise for the DIY network, which had been airing Holmes Makes it Right in the US exclusively until last week's premiere on HGTV/US. In a press release from DIY, the record-setting month for viewership was accredited to their diverse programming lineup, which includes Mike's show Holmes Makes It Right. Earlier last year, the two-part episode "Caught in a Trap" set a DIY viewership record as the highest rated episode of any show to air on the DIY network (see Holmes Makes It Right "Shatters" Viewer Records on DIY for more information). That same episode has since been nominated for a Canadian Screen Award (see Holmes Makes It Right -- Nominated for a 2014 Canadian Screen Award for more information).

From the TheFutonCritic.com:

[01/28/14 - 12:40 PM]
DIY Network Kick Starts 2014 with Most-Watched Month Ever
DIY spins the numbers for the month of January.

---

[via press release from DIY]
DIY NETWORK KICK STARTS 2014 WITH MOST-WATCHED MONTH EVER Rev Run's Renovation and Rehab Addict Help Drive January Viewership New York [For Immediate Release - January 28, 2014] DIY Network had its most-watched month ever in January, averaging 107,000 P25-54 prime impressions. In fact, the network capped its most-watched month by delivering its most watched week ever for the week of 1/20/14, averaging 124,000 P25-54 impressions in prime. Additionally, the weekend of 1/26/14 was its most watched weekend ever, averaging 145,000 P25-54 impressions from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Rev Run (Rev Run's Renovation), Nicole Curtis (Rehab Addict), Robert Kulp and Mike Whiteside (Salvage Dawgs) and Mike Holmes (Holmes Makes It Right) were among the dynamic network stars and series attracting upscale audiences in every key demo. Nearly 40% of DIY Network's P25-54 audience is made up of upscale viewers and the network ranks #9 among all cable networks for upscale audience composition. "This is exactly the kind of audience momentum we want to see in advance of Super Bowl XLVIII and the 2014 Winter Olympics," said Kathleen Finch, president, HGTV and DIY Network. "Of course, everyone loves these important, once-in-a-lifetime events, but for those who still need inspiration to tackle real life Herculean challenges in home renovation, we continue to offer compelling viewing alternatives." Upcoming series for DIY Network in 2014 include the May premiere of Daryl's Restoration Over-Hall, starring rock legend Daryl Hall, and new episodes of fan favorites Vanilla Ice Project and Holmes Inspection. ABOUT DIY NETWORK DIY Network, from the makers of HGTV and Food Network, is the go-to destination for rip-up, knock-out home improvement television. Currently in more than 58 million homes, DIY Network's programming covers a broad range of categories, including home improvement and landscaping. The network's award-winning website, DIYNetwork.com, consistently ranks among America's top home and garden Internet destinations for entertaining videos, home improvement advice, step-by-step instructions, message boards, blogs, an interactive program guide and more. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., DIY Network is wholly owned by Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. (SNI). Viewers can become fans of DIY Network and interact with other home improvement enthusiasts through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. To find DIY Network's satellite and cable channel designations, check local listings or visit DIYNetwork.com/tv.

Canada's Handyman Challenge: Behind the Scenes

Okay, so it's been a little while since Mike Holmes has served as one of the judges on Canada's Handyman Challenge, but don't tell him that! Even though not an official part of the hit Canadian TV series (which I love, even though I'm an American and I only get to see clips and blurbs from around the internet), he's often seen hanging out on the set with his pals Bryan, Scott, and Paul. In this article, which is really a blog post from the home and reno blog "Storefront Life," CHC fan Kristen gets to hang out with her favorite HGTV hosts and ask them some questions, just prior to the launch of the brand new season which debuted on January 21. Always a pleasant surprise, Mike Holmes was on set as well, giving his input about the contestants. At the very end, Kristen states that she'll be sharing more photos after the show's finale, so I'll definitely be checking out the Storefront Life in a little while to see more pics from the show!

From the blog Storefront Life:

Do you have a favorite TV channel? One that you turn to first to see what’s on? Mine is HGTV. Before owning a home I lusted after every home and project and reno on the TV just itching to get my own place. I wanted to learn how to frame a wall, why plumbing needed to be vented and how to tile and drywall. I wanted to be a handy(wo)man.
Needless to say Canada’s Handyman Challenge is one of my favorite shows. It takes average handy Joe’s, and puts them to the test in home building/repair challenges. To top it off, the judges are my favorite hosts on HGTV. Bryan Baeumler, Scott McGillivray and Paul Lafrance. The new season of CHC is about to kick into high gear, premiering tomorrow night (Tuesday January 21st at 10pm ET|PT) on HGTV Canada.
One afternoon when I was busy working on the kitchen project my phone buzzed with an email asking me if I’d like to come down to the set of Canada’s Handyman Challenge and sit down with the judges and host Jenn Robertson. Would I like to visit behind the scenes of one of my fave shows and interview three of my heros? Nah. I’m good. I’d rather be elbows deep in plumbing.
So I went (of course!) I battled a closed road and an out of the way set location and literally ran to make it in time.
When I arrived, I got to tour the set (which was freakin’ awesome!) and then sat down with Bryan, Scott, Paul and Jenn with surprise guest (our buddy) Mike Holmes.

My first realization: Scott’s hair really is that great.
Next realization: The guys are old friends, who get along great and enjoy taking the piss out of one another. Throughout our round table the guys were super relaxed and personable. Scott even told us bloggers that he checked out our blogs (swoon). The strange thing is that you watch these guys on TV so much you kinda think that you know them. That they’re your friends, when really you’ve just been voyeuristic looking at their lives from a box in your living room! They quickly put us at ease and were very candid with our questions.
The four lucky bloggers attending got to ask the gang a question. My question was a bit self serving (I was trying to get the inside scoop so I could take the prize at next years competition.)
I asked this: “What is the one skill that the candidates and handymen in general are lacking?”
I LOVED their answers. Here is what they said:
Scott: Passion.
Paul: Math, Science.
Mike: Confidence.
Jenn: Ability to hang wallpaper! She says there’s always a wallpaper challenge. PRACTICE HOW TO WALLPAPER!
And my favorite response:
Bryan: Planning.
Bryan says people don’t stop and think/plan out what they are doing, they just go head long into the project without thinking how they’re going to do it. I couldn’t agree more. I see my projects going downhill fast unless I plan it out beforehand. I plan on taking Bryan’s advice and planning out my projects more!
I can’t wait to see the judges in action (and what candidates posses the skills the judges are looking for!) I will also start planning my plywood challenge for next year.
Here are a few more behind the scenes pics (I couldn’t share all of my pictures as I was invited on set during the FINAL challenge. So check back after the finale and I will be sharing more pics!.)
I will be chatting on twitter tomorrow night during the premier (Tuesday January 21st at 10pm ET|PT) on HGTV Canada. Follow me @storefrontlife for my witty remarks about my new best friends Bryan, Scott, Paul, & Jenn.
Until then you can get your CHC fix by checking out host bios and behind the scenes videos about the show here.
Would you ever try out for Canada’s Handyman Challenge? Will you be watching tomorrow night?

Mike Holmes: Using Home Equity to Finance a Renovation

Credit should always be used responsibly. If there's one thing people should have taken away from the last couple of years with the housing bust is that people should not be borrowing money they can never afford to pay back. A good renovation can be an investment into a home's value, meaning that a new kitchen or bath can add to the bottom line when determining a home's worth, not to mention it can make living in the home more enjoyable for the homeowners. A properly done renovation can cost upwards of $20,000, and most people don't have that kind of money lying around. This means financing or borrowing to pay the bill. In this article, Mike Holmes talks about the pros and cons of borrowing against your home's equity to pay for a renovation. Loans and lines of credit can be taken out using your home's value as collateral. When done responsibly, this can become an effective way to finance a home renovation project. Of course, the inverse is true as well.

 

From the Ottawa Citizen:

Using home equity to finance renos

It may seem risky, but it has its benefits

By Mike Holmes, Postmedia News January 22, 2014

Doing a renovation yourself or hiring the cheapest contractor may not end up saving you money if things go wrong and need repairing or redoing. It’s worth financing a renovation to do the job properly.

Photograph by: The Holmes Group

‘Can I afford a renovation?”
It’s the question many of you might be asking yourselves as you plan ahead and start thinking about new home projects. Maybe you want to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, or finish the basement. But it takes money to do it right.
The average kitchen or basement reno can cost anywhere between $20,000 and $40,000. But most people don’t have that kind of money lying around. So what do they do? They find the cheapest way to get the renovation they want.
Either they try to do it themselves or hire the cheapest contractor. Unfortunately, that mindset can lead you down the wrong path, one that’s full of problems. (Nine times out of 10 the cheapest contractor ends up costing you more.)
The good news is, you have options.
There are three ways most people pay for home renovations: savings, credit cards or borrowing against their home equity. If the project costs less than $10,000, using your savings or credit cards might be doable — check with a financial adviser or credit counsellor first.
Using credit cards to pay for a renovation isn’t something I recommend because of high interest rates. You could end up paying for your renovation for the rest of your life and three times over if you can’t pay off the card quickly. If you are making only monthly minimum payments, it’s a very bad idea. And if you need to pay for other expenses with your credit cards, you don’t want to hit your credit limit.
So if you don’t have enough savings — the case for most people — and you don’t want to rely on credit cards, that leaves you with option No. 3: borrowing against your home equity. You could do this a few different ways.
First, you could get a second mortgage using your home as collateral, but I don’t recommend it. Although the interest rate won’t be as high as it is with credit cards, it can be a lot higher than your current mortgage rate. And paying off both mortgages will be difficult if you’re already in a tight financial situation.
You could also get a home-equity loan. That’s when a lender lends you a lump sum using your home as collateral. Most lenders will let you borrow up to 75 per cent of your home’s appraised value, minus what you owe on your mortgage.
So let’s say an approved appraiser (approved by the lender) appraises your home at $500,000 but you still owe $300,000 on your mortgage. That means they can lend you a maximum of $75,000 ($500,000 x 0.75 = $375,000 - $300,000 = $75,000).
Now, that doesn’t mean that’s how much you’ll get. Your lender will determine your ability to repay the loan, and that depends on your income, credit history, employment, debt and other financial obligations.
A home-equity loan is given to you in one lump sum, which you pay back at a fixed interest rate, in fixed payments, for a fixed period of time — everything is fixed. And if you default on payments, you could lose your home.

A home-equity loan isn’t very flexible. If you can’t make a monthly payment for whatever reason, you get penalized, which is why more homeowners opt for a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
A HELOC is a revolving line of credit with an adjustable interest rate that allows you to withdraw money as you need it (instead of one lump sum), but the interest rate can fluctuate up or down.
It might seem risky, but the benefit is you don’t have to make fixed payments for a fixed period of time; in most cases, all you have to do is just pay the interest on the line of credit every month. If one month you can’t make any payments, it’s OK — but always double-check this with your lender because each lender is different.
If you’re concerned about affording a renovation, talk to financial professionals and lenders who can give you the right financing options. Because the truth is you can’t afford to do a renovation wrong — it costs more in the end, every single time, no exception.
Catch Mike Holmes on Holmes Makes It Right, Tuesdays at 6 p.m. on HGTV. For information, visit hgtv.ca. For information on home renovations, visit makeitright.ca.

© Copyright (c) The Ottawa Citizen

Mike Holmes Provides Tips to Make it Right with 3M Safety Products

On September 20, 2013, Mike Holmes was in Chicago on a sound stage doing live home maintenance and safety segments which were broadcast on local news shows around the US (see Mike Holmes Gives Home Maintenance Tips for more information). One of those segments was recently put up on the 3M DIY YouTube channel. In the segment, Mike Holmes talks about how to work safely using 3M safety products, including Mike's own line of safety glasses, which are designed to be stylish and comfortable.





While checking out the 3M YouTube channel, I was surprised to see other videos featuring Mike. Here's a video on properly using foam earplugs. Embedding was disabled, so here's some pictures:

There was also a video on choosing safety lens colors. In this video, Mike discusses how different lighting conditions make certain lens colors ideal when choosing safety glasses. Embedding was disabled, so here's some pictures:

Right after that, 3M had a video of Mike demonstrating how to choose the right hearing protection. From full muffs to ear plugs, there are multiple ways to protect your hearing when working around noisy tools. Embedding was disabled, so here's some pictures:

Mike Holmes: Date Your Contractor

How do you pick the right contractor? It's a question that Mike Holmes has been asked 1000 times. It's also a question that's on many homeowners' minds because picking the right contractor is so vitally important to the success of a project. In this Q&A interview conducted by dating/marriage and relationship website 2forcouples.com, Mike Holmes urges homeowners to pick a contractor like you would pick a dating partner: ask a lot of questions to make sure that this person you are inviting into your home is the right guy or gal for you. On an episode of Holmes on Homes, Mike has cheekily called the debris of a renovation gone wrong "divorce dust" because the stress and financial strain caused by a poorly done renovation can and has lead to the dissolution of families. As Mike states in the article below, renovations don't have to be frustrating. On the contrary, they should be exciting, and they will be if you slow down, take your time, and do your homework.

From 2forcouples.com:

Q&A: Mike HolmesFor the past six years, building guru Mike Holmes has been trying to "Make It Right" on his award-winning HGTV Canada show, Holmes on Homes. The son of a jack of all trades, Holmes has been working with his hands since he was a little boy. Today he lives with his family in Halton Hills, Ont., in a house that, he says, will eventually be the "ultimate home." 2 talked to Holmes to get his expert advice on everything reno.
Interview by Hailey Eisen

2: How do you suggest budgeting for a renovation?
Holmes: Know how much money you have to spend. It’s not a big deal to do your renovation in stages. Choose an order that makes sense, and plan every year for that expense. Many people say that you have to add 15 percent to a contractor’s quote for the extra charges he’ll come up with, but I don’t agree. You shouldn’t have to pay a contractor any extra money unless you’ve asked for something extra.

2: What’s the best place in the house to begin a reno?
Holmes: The kitchen and bathroom are the rooms that people use most, so I’d start there. The deck is another popular space to renovate at this time of year.

2: Is it possible to change the look of the whole house without having to invest a huge amount of work and money?
Holmes: Absolutely! To begin, renovate with paint. A new coat of paint throughout the house will make a world of difference. Replacing dark or plain-white walls with bright colours will really open up your spaces. Be sure to choose colours based on flooring and furniture. Next, eliminate clutter. You should only have what you absolutely need in your living room. Big TV stands and wall units only contribute to the clutter. Keep the TV and get rid of any oversized pieces of furniture. The less stuff you have, the bigger your rooms will look.

2: What rooms can be renovated on the cheap, yet still have a major impact?
Holmes: When you put work into your bedroom, you create a desire to spend time there rather than just using it as a space for sleeping. All it takes is some paint, a bit of crown moulding, chair rails, a new floor or carpeting and perhaps a new bed. This can all be done relatively inexpensively.

2: What headaches should be expected during a renovation?
Holmes: Most people don’t realize it but they cause their own headaches. Renovations don’t have to be frustrating. They can—and should—be exciting. There are three important steps I can recommend to prevent headaches. First, take your time. Don’t be in a hurry to get things done. Instead, be sure to get them done right. Second, this is the time and place to find out about new materials. For example, while medium density fibreboard [MDF] is the pick of choice for most cabinetmakers—because it’s cheap and easy to work with—the best trim on the market is actually poplar. It’s a weed tree, which makes it environmentally friendly, and it doesn’t off-gas. Choose lasting materials rather than what’s cheapest. Third, check out your contractors before you hire them. Don’t hire a roofer to do your plumbing or a fence guy to do your bathroom. Find specialty people.

2: With so many contractors out there, how do you know who’s the best?
Holmes: It’s like a dating game: Ask 1,001 questions before you hire anyone. For example, if you’re renovating your bathroom, your questions should include: How long have you specialized in bathrooms? How many sinks have you done? Hopefully they’ve done at least 50 to be able to learn from their mistakes. Do they have a list of references, and can you call them? Trust your instincts when you’re making these decisions.

2: What happens if a contractor messes up?
Holmes: If you hire the right guy, he won’t mess up. If he does, he’ll come back because his name and reputation mean everything to him. Make sure that you get your contractor back to fix any mistakes. And whatever you do, don’t give him the keys to your house and then go on vacation to avoid the dust. Be there to answer questions and oversee the work.

2: How do you avoid renovation fraud?
Holmes: If you see a van driving down the street that says ‘Duct Cleaning,’ and the driver rings your doorbell and says that he’s in the neighbourhood and will come back tomorrow to do the work if you put $100 down today, you should be leery. If you know who your contractors are and have enough information and references, you’ll know they aren’t fraudulent.

2: What’s your take on DIY renos?
Holmes: I’m not a fan. I’ve spent a lifetime learning what I know, and it’s not easily explained. The internet is a good information resource but, like anything else, you’ll find at least 10 different opinions.

2: Are renovation standards improving as a result of your TV show?
Holmes: I think the show has created awareness with homeowners, and I think it has given a great advantage to companies who care about their work. But I still receive 1,000 emails a week from people in trouble—that’s depressing.

CPCI Article and Pictures of "Lien on Me" Episode of Holmes on Homes

CPCI stands for "Canadian Precast Prestressed Concrete Institute." While cruising the web looking for new news, I came across this older article about the CPCI and their roll in the 2008 Holmes on Homes special "Lien on Me." For those who don't know, Lien on Me was multiple years in the making, in which Mike Holmes helped a family whose home was so devastated by a bad contractor that the entire structure had to come down and be built over again. The experience was so impactful on Mike, that it inspired him to create his charitable foundation, The Holmes Foundation.
According to the CPCI website, they manufacture precast concrete elements for use in both architectural and structural projects. They boast being able to quickly produce a quality product that's both safe and strong.
In their March 2008 archive, the CPCI writes about their product's use on the Lien on Me special, specifically prefabricated concrete hollow core slabs. The article is a little disjointed, and appears to be written by a non-English speaker and then translated into English, or perhaps it was written in English by someone who primarily speaks French. Either way, it doesn't flow and it's a little hard on the eyes, so I won't post the article, which can be read here. My main interest in the article comes from the explanation of the products used, and also the great photos they have posted along side of the article, many of which I have never seen before.

Take for instance this photo:

This is a picture of Mike with the prefabricated concrete hollow core slabs they used to build the home. The floor is obviously made of concrete that's been hollowed out and reinforced with a lighter material. This, according to the website, increases the strength of the slab, while minimizing its weight. I think that's pretty cool and innovative! Definitely a smart way to build, and build to last!

Here's another one of Mike and the material they used, which apparently is visible through the glass door of the elevator they installed in the house as you go between the floors:

Mike has quite the love for innovative "above minimum code" products that pretty much ensure that the home is going to still be standing strong 100 years from now. It's a shame that materials like this aren't used more often in building projects.

Making the Future Bright With LED Lights

There's been a lot of fuss about light bulbs lately, especially in the States where I live. Currently, we are phasing out all incandescent light bulbs. We don't really have a choice, since it's now illegal to manufacture them I believe. I'm not sure how I feel about the government regulating what kinds of light bulbs I can buy, but that's a different blog all together. The truth is, regardless of regulations, LED bulbs are amazing. Three years ago, we replaced all of the halogen light bulbs in our home with LED lights. All and all, we purchased 16 bulbs at about $15 a pop. That was quite an investment I have to say, but with our average use, we were saving close to $20 on our electric bill each month. Not only that, but the bulbs emitted such little heat that we could actually use them during the summer months without drastically heating up our home. In the three years since we've bought them, I've seen the prices on LED bulbs dip slightly making them much more affordable. In the article below, Mike talks about his love for LED's. It's a love we both share, as I would never go back to using regular incandescent bulbs ever again, even if I had the choice. Though they're a tad on the pricey side, they still come out a much better bargain when you factor in how much money you'll save on lighting (and cooling) your home. The fact that they last for 20+ years makes them a no-brainer for lights in high places, such as on vaulted ceilings or over stairwells where you need polls and ladders to change a burnt out bulb. And there's just something about screwing in an LED bulb and knowing that the next time you'll have to change it, your kids will be grown and out of the house.

 

From the Montreal Gazette: 

Mike Holmes: Making switch to efficient lights good for planet and your wallet

The ABCs on LEDs, CFLs and halogen bulbs

By Mike Holmes, For Postmedia News January 15, 2014

After a decade, Mike Holmes still cares because he knows the work he, his crew and others do makes a real difference to the people they help.

Photograph by: Alex Schuldt/The Holmes Group, Postmedia News

You might have heard of the new federal regulations that came into effect Jan. 1. Basically, manufacturers can no longer supply 75- and 100-watt incandescent light bulbs to Canadian retailers.
Retailers can sell off any stock they have left, but once that’s gone it is lights out for those bulbs.
Next on the chopping block are 40- and 60-watt incandescent light bulbs, which will no longer be produced come Dec. 31, 2014.
Is this a step in the right direction? Absolutely.
The ban might be a shocker to some homeowners — sales are slightly up for the bulbs since the Jan. 1 regulations came into effect as homeowners stock up — but it’s old news for B.C. dwellers. Their provincial government started to phase-out 75- and 100-watt incandescent bulbs back in early 2011. The U.S. has already started to phase out 40- and 60- watt incandescent bulbs this year, and they seem to be doing just fine with the adjustment.
There has been some resistance to the switch — you can find at least half a dozen blogs where people are complaining about paying more to light up and make the switch. But like it or not folks, this is what the industry is moving toward. And it’s not a bad thing.
The phase-out might seem sudden but it’s been coming down the pipeline for a while now. It was originally scheduled for 2012 but got pushed to 2014, to give manufacturers time to adjust and develop product alternatives.
The result? More options for homeowners interested in saving on their energy bill, better, more innovative products and a drop in price for alternative lighting options, such as CFLs (compact fluorescents) and halogen bulbs.
But which ones get my vote? Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, all the way.
Halogen light bulbs are the most like incandescent but they don’t last as long and aren’t as energy efficient as CFLs and LEDs. And CFLs, which contain mercury and can emit ultraviolet radiation, are cheaper than LEDs but they aren’t as safe or as efficient as LEDs. When it’s cold, CFLs take time to warm up and are sometimes too dim. Plus, most CFLs can’t be used on a dimmer, and when they can they don’t work as efficiently.
I’ve been using LEDs for years now and in my home, in the homes of the people we help on the show. We also started to use LED work lights on my job sites — my crew loves them. And we even use LEDs to light some sets for the show.
With average use, LEDs can last at least 22 years or 25,000 hours. CFLs last only about 8,000 to 10,000 hours and halogen bulbs a measly 2,500 to 5,000 hours — but they’re still a better choice than incandescent, which last only 1,000 hours.
And when it comes to product innovation, LEDs lead the way.
Most LEDs can be used on dimmers, which use about 20-per-cent-less energy, so the energy savings are two-fold. You can also get LEDs for under-cabinet lighting, which is great for the kitchen and bar.
There are also plug-in, battery-operated LED night lights that are motion-activated. They stay off during the day, detect movement up to 30 feet, have “glow modes” and last about one year. There are even LED-lit back plates that are mini LED fixtures that live inside the junction boxes of single-gang outlets and light switches. They stay on 24 hours a day but use less than one watt of energy.
I’ve heard of a lot of people complain about how expensive LEDs are. Yes, they cost more to buy but they pay for themselves. The money you save on energy and not having to buy more bulbs — not to mention the benefits to the environment — don’t compare. When you switch to LEDs you do something good for you, the environment, your home and your wallet in the long run.
Catch Mike Holmes on Holmes Makes It Right, Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on HGTV. For more information, visit hgtv.ca. For more information on home renovations, visit makeitright.ca.

© Copyright (c) The Montreal Gazette

Damon Bennett: "The Networks Didn't Bite"

Recently it was announced that Damon Bennett would be parting ways with Mike Holmes and the crew of Holmes Makes it Right after a decade long run. The reasons given were sparse, and in my opinion a little unsatisfying. However, as time marches on, we are beginning to see a little more detail to fill in the information gaps.

 

Today, the Edmonton Journal released small editorial on Damon Bennett headlining the 2014 Edmonton Renovation Show. So for all you Damon Bennett fans, you can meet the big man himself at the Edmonton Expo Center from January 24-26 (see the schedule below for more details).

 

Some rather interesting gleanings from the article... Damon stated the reason he left the show was "[S]trictly because I had to go out on my own — I’m 42 — and it was time to leave the nest." the article also states that the pilot for "Damon Bennett: Restoration Company" is a no-go, but Damon has rather ambitious goals to succeed nevertheless: "The networks didn’t bite, and Bennett says one of his objectives in 2014 is to get a pilot done that will be picked up..." That's too bad about the pilot, because I feel that Damon Bennett is a strong television personality who could easily carry his own show. This was NOT always my opinion, I have to admit. What changed my mind were those DIY Primers posted on the Point Load Pictures website. Until then, I was completely unconvinced that Damon could ever pull off his own show, but after watching a few of those short videos, I feel that to not give Damon his own show would be completely foolish. First, Damon has generated a lot of fans that are his own, not just "run-off" from the Holmes shows. Secondly, Damon is incredibly knowledgeable and personable. Lastly, Damon has that "HGTV hunky handyman" look about him. Sexy sells, and sexy plus competence sells a lot. That's just my own personal opinion, take it for all it's worth, which probably isn't much.

 

From the Edmonton Journal: 

Kick-start the season with reno show

Celebrity guests offer project-planning tips

By LAURA SEVERS, Edmonton Journal January 15, 2014

Discovered years ago while working on a client’s home, Damon Bennett was approached by producers of the hit television series, Holmes on Homes. Bennett is the celebrity headliner of the 2014 edition of the Edmonton Renovation Show.

You know him best as Mike Holmes’ right-hand man.
But when Damon Bennett lands in Edmonton next week as the celebrity headliner of the 2014 edition of the Renovation Show, he will be flying solo. After almost 10 years of making it right with Mike, Bennett is moving on.
“I left Mike (Holmes) recently,” said Bennett, who said goodbye to the Holmes crew late last year to start up his own contracting business. “It’s strictly because I had to go out on my own — I’m 42 — and it was time to leave the nest. It’s been fun and one of the most memorable experiences in my life, but it was time to lay out my own shingle, so to speak.”
At the Renovation Show, being held at the Edmonton Expo Centre from Jan. 24 through 26, Bennett will provide show goers with behind-the-scenes details from his work on Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection and Holmes Makes It Right. He will also give advice on how to start a renovation, how to avoid pitfalls when renovating your home and how to deal with a contractor.
“What I’ve noticed when I’ve been in the States (at similar home shows), is that a lot of people bring notepads and that they’re there to gain as much knowledge as they can, which I think is fantastic,” said Bennett, who also has ties to Edmonton: his girlfriend used to deliver the Edmonton Journal.
“It was bittersweet leaving Mike. It (the show and team) was like a family to me. Pulling out was a hard thing to do, but between the two of us we can do more,” said Bennett, who is working on landing his own show to keep teaching about home construction and renovations.
A pilot, the Damon Bennett Restoration Co., was shot, aimed at restoring parts of homes to their original glory. The networks didn’t bite, and Bennett says one of his objectives in 2014 is to get a pilot done that will be picked up; the other is to get his construction company into gear.
“Mike’s got a fantastic show, but to possibly have another show helping people and teaching — after 10 years of helping to make it right — I’d like to continue,” said Bennett, who is big on giving others a helping hand. Because of that, he is also turning his attention to assisting Canada’s veterans to get back to work. “Veterans are highly trained, can step into any workforce at any time and make an impact, said Bennett. “I just strongly believe all our veterans need a place when they come home. Everyone looks at veterans as old men but we have veterans in their 20s and 30s; we have new veterans and they need our help.”
Bennett won’t be the only home-improvement expert on hand at the Renovation Show.
Kitchen and bath renovation specialist John Sillaots will also be there, providing the lowdown on the full home-renovation picture, taking into account how your renovation affects other parts of your home.
“People come to the show for the discovery process,” says show producer Rick Young. “Most often, they have a specific product they’d like to look at, but in the process they see so many ideas and new products that they haven’t considered, so the show is a catalyst for the entire renovation process. The key is that while you can still see individual products in stores, you won’t see a group of professionals in one place who do the work and demonstrate the importance of the products they are selling and installing — and they’re right in front of you.”

JUST THE FACTS
The 2014 Renovation Show
When: Jan. 24 to 26
Where: Edmonton Expo Centre
Hours: Friday, Jan. 24 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, Jan 25 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 26 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ticket prices: Adults, $12. Seniors and students, $10. Children 12 and under free
Show overview: Nineteenth annual edition of the first home show of the season, focusing on renovations. Visitors will find exhibitors including builders; renovators; flooring; windows and doors; window treatments; heating and cooling contractors; roofing; furniture; and a wide range of lifestyle products and services.
Celebrity guests: Home improvement stars Damon Bennett and John Sillaots
Celebrity schedule: Damon Bennett on Friday, Jan. 24, and Saturday, Jan. 25; John Sillaots: Friday, Jan. 24, Saturday, Jan. 25, and Sunday, Jan. 26.

© Copyright (c) The Edmonton Journal

Mike Holmes on the Marilyn Denis Show -- Show Clips

Yesterday, Mike Holmes made an appearance on the Marilyn Denis Show, which is a Canadian daytime TV talk show. Mike did two segments on the show, one of which he spoke about the work he did in Calgary to help Alberta flood victims, and the other in which he answered general viewer questions.

In the first segment, Mike spoke about his experiences in Calgary shortly after the June floods. He and Marilyn spoke with Gillian, who lives in a home that Holmes and his crew rebuilt for an episode of Holmes Makes It Right.

To view the first segment, "After the Flood," click here.

Pictures:

 

 

The second segment was a general Q and A with Mike. Viewers asked questions, and Mike did his best to answer them without swearing.

 

To view the second segment, "Q and A with Mike Holmes," click here.

Pictures:

 

 

(PS -- Marilyn's shoes are to die for! So jealous.)  

Holmes Makes It Right -- Nominated for a 2014 Canadian Screen Award

It was announced today on the Canadian Screen Awards' official website that Holmes Makes It Right has been nominated for an award in the category of "Best Picture Editing in an Information Program or Series."

 
Best Picture Editing in an Information Program or Series
 Holmes Makes it Right - Caught in a Trap - Part 1
HGTV Canada
(Shaw Media)
Dave Goard
 
Contratulations! 

Mike Holmes on the Marilyn Denis Show - January 13, 2014

Mike Holmes' Twitter feed was all the buzz today as he appeared on the Marilyn Denis show, a Canadian talk show that broadcasts on CTV. Over the years, Mike has made several appearances on the show, as has his son, Mike Jr., who did a segment on building decks not too long ago. For all those who don't get CTV, most of the episodes are put online the day after their broadcast, so hopefully tomorrow I'll have a link to share where everyone can watch the segment -- including myself! Usually with these types of shows, Mike comes on to talk about how to fix a problem around the home, or how to hire the right contractor, but on this segment Mike spoke about the floods in Alberta last June, and how he helped rebuild a couple's home on his show, Holmes Makes It Right. The couple's name was Gillian and John, and they had lived in a Holmes Approved Home in High River when the floods happened. Lucky for them, the Holmes Makes It Right team was there to put everything back together for them.

From the Marilyn Denis Show website:

Mike Holmes Offers a Helping Hand

Two months after the flood that devastated much of Alberta Mike Holmes visited the area and offered a helping hand to families in need. Now he shares what he saw first hand in the prairies.

What first shocked him was the size of the flood zone. It was much bigger than even the New Orleans flood of 2005. The people deserve so much credit for their unwavering resiliency and their neighbourly help. Following the flood the city was shut down for weeks and it was only when stampede time approached that the city pulled together to turn it around in time for the annual tourist draw.

The town of High River was one of the hardest hit areas. The surprise storm flooded the town with not only heavy rainfall (in a short amount of time) but also from the melted snow and rainfall off the mountains. The extreme devastation of the area is because the houses were built in a flood zone. Normally houses wouldn’t be been built in a flood zone but because there hadn’t been one for more than 80 years the government decided to build anyways.

Talking to the families that were in trouble it’s obvious that they needed to focus on their priorities, because it’s going to take up to a year to get home. These stories are going to continue to be written for quite some time. Those that jumped into rebuilding their homes before the moisture content came back down to 15% are going to see mould soon, and badly.

What you don’t think about is that flood damage is immediate and heavy. It brings in mud and covers the entire house. Plus, consider all the damage from torn down walls and ruined foundations due to the extreme water pressure.

It was important to help out Gillian and John while there, especially because they have a Holmes approved home. It’s unbelievable how everyone just gave up their time and energy to help clean up the areas. Holmes had to wait for the house to completely dry out then build the house back up code and giving them all new furniture. It took almost 2 months to get the house back up (with four shows filming) which is a really quick turn around. We couldn’t have done it without tons of help.

“Things are really good, it’s really nice to be back in our home,” said Gillian of how far they have come. Unfortunately, there are many other people around town struggling to get back on their feet. Even the town itself has a long way to go. Help from the rest of Canada is welcome; the recovery efforts continue just because the news coverage doesn’t.

One of the biggest things people should remember is to be very careful going back into their homes. There’s a lot of toxicity in those homes due to the mud, sewage, dead animals, etc. People are still in trouble and many are almost bankrupt trying to recuperate. It’s going to take time, but Holmes says that it’s vital to slow down and remember that family is number one, take care of that first and foremost.


To read more about Gillian and John's story, take a peek at this news story from the Calgary Herald.

Pictures from Mike's Twitter Feed:

Mike Holmes Interview with Builder Magazine

While poking around my favorite Canadian coated lumber website, BluWoodCanada.com, I noticed a link to a video for an interview with Mike Holmes from 2011 conducted by Builder Magazine. I clicked on the link, and to my disappointment the link was dead. That's OK, I just headed over to BuilderOnline.com and found not only a link to the video, but also a short corresponding article. The video is from the 2011International Builder's Show in Orlando, Florida, and on it Mike discusses his commitment to building with quality and the environment in mind.

From BuilderOnline.com:

HGTV’s Mike Holmes Talks Construction Quality, Sustainability with BUILDER Magazine

By Nigel F. Maynard


The construction industry has been using building techniques that produce too many callbacks and as a result needs to rethink the way it builds houses, general contractor Mike Holmes, host of the HGTV series Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection, told Builder magazine at the 2011 International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla.

Holmes, a Canadian contractor who is perhaps the most respected and popular general contractor in America at the moment, said many of our houses are failing because of the minimum code. “If we don’t upgrade a few things within minimum code, it’s not logical; everything is barred low.”

 (If you can't view the video, click here)

Holmes Makes It Right Coming to HGTV US

Almost a year and a half after it first hit the airwaves on HGTV Canada, Holmes Makes It Right is FINALLY set to air on HGTV US starting January 18. The show has been accessible to some US viewers since August 2012 through HGTV's sister network DIY, however, for most US cable and satellite subscribers, DIY is a premium channel. There is one small caveat though. The show is airing on HGTV US at 7AM in the morning. 7AM??? The reason given for the early time slot is that HGTV is experimenting, trying to find the most appropriate place for the new show. "This is a testing time period. Nothing is finalized yet" was the standard response from the Holmes Makes It Right Facebook account to fans inquiring about the unusual time slot. In my opinion, the only two things that should be airing at 7AM in the morning is the news and infomercials for acne face wash. Mike's show, if aired during people hours, would undoubtedly explode in popularity as it has on the DIY network. I am confident, as I'm sure the Holmes Group is confident, that this 7AM gig is only temporary. The moment people get word that Holmes is back on HGTV, it won't be long until the show gets pushed to prime time where it rightfully belongs in my opinion.

From Mike's Facebook page:

You asked for it, and HGTV delivered!

Holmes Makes It Right will now be airing on HGTV in the USA. They're still testing time slots but you can catch a new episode on January 18 at 7:00 am EST.

Wake up bright and early and tune in to watch me make it right for a family.

New Shows on the Horizon for Point Load Pictures

Yesterday on Tuesday, January 7, Point Load Pictures posted a rather vague yet intriguing entry on their Facebook page:

We'll be posting more here soon about our projects that we're working on! Stay tuned !

 

 

 

For those who don't know, Point Load Pictures is a television production company which was started by Mike Holmes and Peter Kettlewell. The company has toyed with several prototypes for shows, including a spin-off for former Holmes crew member Damon Bennett, "Damon Bennett: Restoration Co." Other shows currently listed as being in development on the Point Load Pictures website include "The Relocators," a show which will document people as they plan to relocate their families to Canada. It will be interesting to see just what the small production company has in store. Hopefully we'll hear more news later in the year. 

Cleaning Up After the Storm

I'm not Canadian, but I know that one thing Canadians do well is winter. When it comes to cold weather, the electricians, plumbers, and general contractors up north have cold weather down to a science. As I said to one Canadian electrician I know on Facebook after the ice storms that happened a couple of weeks ago, tradespeople are the unsung heros who seperate the first world from the third world. They trudge throught the snow and ice and keep the lights turned on. As Mike states in the article below, sometimes Mother Nature likes to throw a curve ball our direction and get a litte unruly. Such was the case last month in December when an icestorm knocked out the power to hundreds of thousands of people's homes in parts of Toronto. No amount of planning can adequately prepare a household to be without heat or electricity for an entire week in the middle of the coldest winter in decades. The only thing people can do in the aftermath of a storm is clean up the mess. Mike Holmes offers some pretty good advice on how to hire the right pros and make sure things don't get worse in a bad situation. One of the worst mistakes people can make is to let their desperation cloud their judgement and hire the first person willing to "help" -- even minor electrical repairs require permits, and if the proper permits aren't taken, then the utility companies will not inspect the repairs and turn the power back on. Desperate situations can also lead to price gouging, which is another good reason for consumers to slow down and use good judgement. It's important to have a basic knowlege of about how much a repair is going to cost so that you don't end up paying double or tripple (or more) the going rate. If for some reason you find yourself without power or heat in freezing weather, Mike recommends leaving a tap on to keep the water flowing through your pipes. This prevents stagnant water in the pipes from freezing and bursting. It might be wasteful, but it beats the alternative. Lastly, it's important to take precautions before the a storm happens and have good insurance. Mike is an official spokesman for Allstate Insurance, and has done a few commercials for them over the past year. In Mike's eyes, it's very important for homeowners to make sure their homeowners insurance policies are up to snuff and are comprehensive enough to cover all the Old Man Winter has to offer.

Keep warm, my Canadian friends!
 

 

From the Montreal Gazette:

Mike Holmes: After the storm

Tips on which pros to call, and how not to make the damage worse

By Mike Holmes, For Postmedia NewsJanuary 7, 2014

After a decade, Mike Holmes still cares because he knows the work he, his crew and others do makes a real difference to the people they help.

Photograph by: Alex Schuldt/The Holmes Group, Postmedia News

I talk a lot about winterizing your home, but sometimes Mother Nature throws us a curveball that can be difficult to prepare for — like the ice storms many Canadians faced a couple of weeks ago. We have to think on our feet and deal with the aftermath, and one of the first things you need to do is contact your home insurance provider.
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Some cover snow and ice damage, others don’t. Most standard policies won’t cover winter-related flooding, unless you have a separate flood insurance policy. You need to know exactly what’s covered and what’s not. Then assess the damage.
During winter storms, there are four major areas of your home that can be susceptible to damage: the roof; pipes; electrical service equipment; and trees around the property.
Your roof
Ice on a roof makes for a very heavy load. Some homeowners might be anxious to get rid of it but you must be careful. Unless you have a leak inside, leave it alone until the end of winter or early spring. You can get hurt trying to get rid of the ice yourself or cause more damage to the shingles. But if you are concerned consult a roofing and/or eavestroughs contractor.
A roofing contractor can go up on your roof and check for any damage caused by falling debris (like trees). They can also remove whatever snow there is and add a de-icer that is non-corrosive to aluminum (since most eavestroughs are aluminum), like a calcium chloride flake.
Roofs without any ice and water shield are more susceptible to damage. Given the level of damage this winter has already caused, most homeowners will be looking for good roofers come spring. I would start booking them as soon as March to make sure you get a real pro. A good roof also needs a healthy attic, so it might be worth also hiring an insulation contractor who can check your attic and make sure it has enough insulation and sufficient ventilation.
Frozen pipes
I always tell homeowners to make sure your pipes are properly insulated to stop them from freezing. But during a power outage and major temperature drops, no amount of insulation can stop water from freezing in pipes.
Some people might suggest shutting off the water and draining the pipes. But nowhere in building code does it say that pipes must be sloped. That means even with the pipes drained there could be some water trapped in certain sections that can freeze.
So what’s the best solution? Leave your taps on. Let them drip or let a small amount of water continue to flow through the pipes. Also flush toilets every once in a while to keep the water flowing. It might seem like a waste but when you consider the alternative, it’s a safe precaution.
Power
Power outages are a big issue during winter storms. Most of us think that hydro companies will take care of everything but the cold, hard truth is that they are responsible only for the lines going to your house — anything after the point of attachment, which is called the clevis, is your responsibility.
If there is a problem with the clevis, pipe, clips, wiring or meter base — basically any electrical service equipment on your property — it becomes your responsibility to fix it. And when there’s a big demand for a specific service, such as electrical contractors after storms, there’s a high chance of people getting gouged.

Vulnerable homeowners become desperate to get their power and heat back, and unfortunately, some people take advantage of that, asking for $7,500 for a job that shouldn’t cost more than $1,500 to repair. I’ve seen it happen.
To prevent this you can’t let a desperate situation fog your judgment. You still need to make sure you hire the right pro — not the first person that says they can help.
Most electrical repair jobs should cost between $800 to $3,000, plus the cost of the permit, which is under $200. And yes, you need a permit, even if it’s something simple like replacing the clevis.
Having the proper permits means that city or municipal inspectors will check the work and make sure it’s done right so the hydro company can get the power to your home safely. If the work is wrong, hydro can’t do anything about it and you’re out of luck and out of heat.
If you have problems with the electrical service equipment on your property, hire a licensed electrical contractor to fix it, not an electrician. An electrician works for the electrical contractor, who works for you, the homeowner. And only a licensed electrical contractor can get the proper permits to work on your home.
Ice-covered trees
Falling trees is a huge safety hazard, and will continue to be over the coming weeks after the storm. Many trees are weak, have been damaged, and can break easily in high winter winds.
If you’re concerned about any trees on your property call a Certified Arborist to check them out. (Ask for proof of insurance before hiring anyone.)
And if there are trees near any electrical lines, stay away from them and contact your utility company to report the problem.
Winter isn’t over, not by a long shot. But if we learn and think ahead we can show Old Man Winter what we’re really made of. After all, we are Canadians!
Catch Mike Holmes on Holmes Makes It Right, Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on HGTV. For more information, visit hgtv.ca. For more information on home renovations, visit makeitright.ca.

© Copyright (c) The Montreal Gazette