Mike Holmes and ROXUL Launch Partnership

It was announced yesterday that North America's leading manufacture of stone wool insulation products, ROXUL, is now part of the Holmes Approved family of products and services. Any fan of Mike's shows is familiar with the ROXUL brand and knows that Mike Holmes stands behind the products he promotes.

PS -- I met Mike's good buddy Scott McGillivray earlier this year in front of the ROXUL booth at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Note the "Make It Right" T-Shirt!)

From Mike's website, MAKEITRIGHT.ca:

Mike Holmes & Roxul Launch Partnership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MIKE HOLMES & ROXUL LAUNCH PARTNERSHIP

Toronto, ON (June 9, 2014)—The Holmes Group, in association with ROXUL Inc., is pleased to announce that ROXUL has been officially named a HOLMES Approved Product.
“I’ve been using ROXUL for years,” stated Mike Holmes, President of the Holmes Group. “It’s been an important part of building homes right. It helps make homes more energy-efficient, comfortable and healthy. I’m happy to finally have them on board as a HOLMES Approved Product,” added Holmes.
The partnership launches with ROXUL batt and board products that are specifically engineered for use in exterior/interior walls, cathedral ceilings, attics, basement walls, exposed floors and heated crawl spaces. Effective thermal performance, fire resistance, water repellency, mold resistance and sound absorption are a few of the features that make it stand out as quality insulation.
ROXUL is North America’s leading manufacturer of stone wool insulation products and offers a wide range of insulation solutions to help achieve energy efficient homes. From the summer heat to the frigid winters, ROXUL presents homeowners with far better options and results than any conventional insulation.
The HOLMES Approved Products program was designed to help homeowners choose products that support proper construction principles, such as improved indoor air quality and building more durable structures.
“As a trusted contractor and ongoing supporter of the ROXUL line up of products, the decision to partner with Mike Holmes and his HOLMES Approved Products was a natural progression,” said Mike Benetti, Segment Manager, Building Insulation – Residential, ROXUL. “As an industry leader, homeowners, contractors and builders can rely on ROXUL for insulation solutions that help save energy and create quiet and safer homes.”
Sustainability is fundamental at ROXUL. As a fully owned subsidiary of ROCKWOOL International, ROXUL is guided by the same corporate mission and responsibilities. This is especially true in the area of sustainability. The ROCKWOOL report on sustainability is global in scope and includes the group’s efforts in North America. Additionally, ROXUL produces its own Sustainability Report for North America.
ROXUL has versatile product offerings applicable to most applications on the home. When a home is properly insulated it uses less energy for heating and cooling, and adding insulation is one of the most effective ways to save on energy costs and reduce our carbon footprints.
ROXUL is a member of the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and has received Greenguard’s most stringent certification for indoor air quality.

For more information on ROXUL and ROXUL products, please visit roxul.com.
For more information on Mike Holmes and HOLMES Approved Products, please visit makeitright.ca.



MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jennifer Beck
Birchall PR c/o ROXUL
Jennifer@birchallpr.com
(905) 338-7600 Ext. 104

Amanda Heath
The Holmes Group
amandaheath@makeitright.ca
647.253.0300 ext. 410

About Roxul Inc.

ROXUL Inc., located in Milton, Ontario, and Grand Forks, British Columbia is a subsidiary of Rockwool® International, the world’s largest producer of stone wool insulation. Rockwool International is a publicly held company, which trades on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. Operating 27 factories, the Rockwool Group employs over 9800 people in 30 countries and features a global network of sales companies, trade offices and dedicated commercial partners. ROXUL’s products are fire resistant, water repellent, non-corrosive and are resistant to mold, fungi and bacteria growth.

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.

Rest in Peace Dieter Kirshbaum AKA Jundee

It was announced today on Mike's Facebook page that Dieter Kirshbaum AKA "Jundee" passed away. Dieter was a fan amongst fans, and also a super great guy. I met Dieter here on The Holmes Spot when be became a significant contributor to the discussions with his insightful comments. We became friends and pen pals through email. For most people in the Holmes fan community, Dieter was just Jundee, moderator of Mike's now-closed official forum. He was also someone I considered a friend, as well as a mentor. For the past year, we communicated through email about a variety of subjects, and he gave me a lot of insight about what it was like to work in Mike's office. He sent me a "Mike Holmes Care Package" for Christmas, which included seasons 1-5 of Holmes on Homes on DVD and some other swag items. He told me that I could rip them to my computer and then sell them on eBay because they were rather pricey on eBay. I told him I could never sell something that was given to me as a gift by a friend. And get this --- one of the DVD sets had a missing disc. I told him not to worry about it, that it was fine, but he wouldn't listen to me. He found the missing disc on eBay and sent it to me at a later date. I had no words, only "thank you."

He also sent me an appreciation certificate. I felt so honored that someone with so much wisdom and insight appreciated me. If only he knew how much I appreciated him.

When I met Mike Holmes in February this year, Jundee asked me to tell him hello, so I did. My parting words with Mike were "Dieter Kirshbaum says hello!" Mike smiled like I've never seen him smile before and said "I love Dieter," I nodded my head and said "I know you do. So do I!" I relayed the story back to Dieter and he was so excited to hear it. Mike meant a lot to him. He means a lot to me too.

I knew he was sick. I have a Father's Day card sitting in a drawer with his name on it. It just needed a stamp and to be mailed.

Rest in Peace Jundee...

Jundee was very proud of this photo. It meant a lot to him:

I can't believe that I will never post something on this blog again, and see one of his comments. I can't believe that I'm never going to get another email asking if Mike is still filming episodes of his show or if I had heard this piece of news or that piece of news. My deepest sympathies to Dieter's family, his wife and kids and grandkids, and to those who knew him much better than I did.


From Mike's Facebook page:


I have some sad news: Longtime fan and friend, Dieter Kirshbaum (aka Jundee) has passed away. Jundee became a fan of Holmes on Homes during the second season. Since then he's been a big help and devoted volunteer, supporting the Holmes Foundation, and was the forum moderator. In 2008 he even compiled a binder with comments from fans around the world! 
Our prayers and thoughts are with Jundee and his family. We lost one of the good ones! He will be missed.

From Damon Bennett's Facebook page:

I would like to take a moment to say goodbye to Jundee(Dieter Kirshbaum), who passed away yesterday.

When I first started with Mike, Jundee was already a permanent fixture with the Holmes group. He was more than a fan, he ran and moderated Mike's fan forum for well over 5 years, completely voluntarily, he was an integral member of the team. He was a lovely dedicated man who loved Mike, the show, the crew, and everything that we stood for and were trying to do.

He attended every local home show that Mike made an appearance at. I would always see he and his wife, with a gift in hand for Mike, showing their support. He cared as much about the people on the show as the show itself.

After I left the show last year Jundee reached out to me and we began corresponding regularly. He was very supportive and encouraging, he wasn't merely a mentor and friend, he was also a father figure. It was truly an honour and a pleasure to have known him.
He had no intention of slowing down, he assured me that as soon as I had a show on the air, I would also have a fan forum. Thank you for your support, words of wisdom, input, and encouragement. I am forever grateful.

I will always remember you sitting in the front row at home shows, with your arms crossed, a big smile and a present at your feet. I'll miss you big guy.

Mike and Sherry Take London!

For the last couple of days, Mike Holmes and his daughter Sherry have been across the pond visiting London, England.

The reason for the visit? At first I suspected it might have something to do with Skills Canada, which held its opening ceremony today, June 4 in Toronto. However, Mike revealed the reason on his Facebook page:

As an official patron of the Royal Canadian Regiment I had the honour of going to the Buckingham Palace to meet Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh. 

I'm here with members of the RCR. After we met the Duke we had tea and toast by the Tower Bridges--never thought I'd say that. What a day!

Just a little background information on what Mike is talking about, in December of 2013, Mike Holmes was made an official Regimental Patron of the Royal Canadian Regiment. "A Regimental Patron is a senior position of distinction within an Army regiment and plays a valuable role in the Regiment’s focus on fostering community relations," according to a press release at the time of Mike's appointment last year. For more information about Mike's appointment as an official patron of the RCR, see Mike Holmes Named Official Patron of the Royal Canadian Regiment. Sounds fancy! Looks fancy too (see photos below!). Mike had the honor of meeting with some very distinguished people and representing his country and position as a RCR patron well. Bravo!

Regimental photo at the unveiling of official portrait bust of HRH The Prince Philip. L-R Hon. Col W.J. Aitcheson; CD; Mike Holmes, Regimental Paton; Judith Irving, Patron and Christian Corbet, Regimental Sculptor - The Royal Canadian Regiment

Christian Corbet, Regimental Sculptor - The Royal Canadian Regiment and Patron Judith Irving lead the party out of Buckingham Palace following Christian's unveiling of the new portrait bust of Prince Philip. Directly behind Christian is television celebrity Mike Holmes.

The photo below is a close-up of the bust, "HRH The Prince Philip, KG, KT. Colonel-in-Chief, The Royal Canadian Regiment." The bust is sculpted in bronze on a marble base.

Safe travels home Mike and Sherry!

The Holmes Manual -- Pick Up Your Copy Today!

Mike Holmes is more than just a contractor, he's more than just a television star, Mike Holmes is also the author of several best selling books. As of today, you can add another title to the list of books Mike Holmes has authored. The Holmes Manual was released in Canada today though HarperCollins Canada. Fans outside of Canada can purchase the book through Mike's website MakeItRight.ca for 25% off. You can also enter to win one of 20 signed copies of The Holmes Manual via a contest currently going on through Mike's Facebook page. So what is Mike's new book about? What makes it different from the other books Mike has written? See for yourself...

Here's an article from the Ottawa Citizen about Mike's new book:

Mike Holmes releases comprehensive manual on home repair

Paula McCooey

Your house is talking to you and you should be listening, says Mike Holmes.

In his new book, The Holmes Manual, the celebrity handyman maps out virtually every telltale sign that your home needs attention. Whether its fogged up windows, a squeaky floor or a cold bedroom, the star of HGTV’s Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection and Holmes Makes it Right answers common questions and provides solutions for everyday problems.

While his previous books focus on hiring a professional, The Holmes Manual — packed with 308 pages of colour photographs, handy tips and sidebars — offers advice on home maintenance, including instructions for repairs and projects that homeowners can tackle themselves.

Holmes says he came up with the various subjects by drawing on common questions he received from audience members at speaking events across the country.

“This is the one book that I think can really help everyone,” he says. Using the example of condensation on the inside of windows, he continues, “There isn’t just one answer, and if you ask window companies and contractors a bunch of questions, you are going to get a bunch of different answers. What are the real answers and what are the real issues?”

He believes the more people know about their homes, the more grief and money they will save themselves down the road. Also, by recognizing red flags to potential problems — like curling roof shingles — they will be less likely to tackle a kitchen renovation first if they know they may be facing a leaky roof.

“It’s really understanding the telltale signs that your house is talking to you,” says Holmes, who has more than 20 years of construction experience. “And you need to recognize what it is saying.”

The eight chapters cover everything from exteriors and attics to windows, floors and plumbing. Within each chapter, he offers tips to help homeowners protect themselves such as going beyond minimum code when replacing a roof by adding an ice and water shield as a secondary waterproof layer.

He also includes photos of how a job should look versus a job gone wrong and charts with pros and cons of different building materials.

As well as a manual, Holmes considers the book to be an education tool that encourages readers to avoid rushing a project.

“These are all the tools I believe people need to read, understand, and more than anything, take your time, educate yourself and it will be a dream not a nightmare.”

The Holmes Manual (Harper Collins Canada Ltd.) is $34.99 at amazon.ca and chapters.indigo.ca.

Mike Holmes on Cityline - Video

Last Monday on May 26, Mike Holmes filmed a segment on the Canadian TV talk show Cityline, promoting his new book The Holmes Manual, which comes out tomorrow June 3 in Canada. In the segment, Mike and the host discuss different types of roofs, specifically which ones last and which ones don't make Mike's cut. They also briefly chat about Mike's dazzling diamond studs and what they mean to Mike. For more information about Mike's appearance on Cityline, visit Holmes Spot blog entry Mike Holmes on Cityline Promoting His New Book: The Holmes Manual.




Pictures:

Mike Holmes on CTV's The Morning Show

On Wednesday, May 28, Mike Holmes had a very busy day! How busy? Read all about it here. Part of Mike's busy day involved an interview with The Morning Show on CTV in which he talked about his new book The Holmes Manual, which hits shelves June 3 in Canada.

Watch the inverview (click here for the direct link).



Picutres:

MyFixitUpLife's Interview With Mike Holmes at the National Hardware Show 2014

In early May of this year, Mike Holmes was in my hometown of Las Vegas at the 2014 National Hardware Show. I attended the convention on Tuesday, and unfortunately Mike did this interview on Wednesday, so I wasn't able to see him record this interview!

In this interview, Mike Holmes sits down with Mark and Theresa of MyFixitUpLife and Food Network's show "Save My Bakery." He talks with them about what else... tools and fix-it-up projects! Interesting enough, Mike talks about his "Holmes Approved" brand moving beyond the borders of Canada into the US, specifically Minnesota and Texas. They also discuss fun with drywall repair! It's a short and fast-paced but fantastic interview! For more information about Mike Holmes and the 2014 National Hardware Show, see Mike Holmes in Las Vegas at the National Hardware Show.

(Mike's segment begins at the 31:00 mark.)
Direct link to the interview

From MyFixitUpLife.com:

We're talking tool innovations and the Property Brothers' new outdoor furnishings and more on this episode from the National Hardware Show in Vegas.

How do you know you’re at risk—of being boring? Is your design look a blend of “I’ve always done it that way” combined with lots of beige? When was the last time you looked at your home?

The cure is color, so pick up some paint and punch it up a notch. From fixing that old doorknob hole to sharpening up those shutters outside, you can body slam boredom in no time. From prep to color pop, from deck to decore, let’s make the tough stuff easy.

We're talking new tool innovations from the HYDE Tools booth at the National Hardware Show and we're shaking down what's amazing from the trade show floor with our guests. HGTV's 'Property Brothers' Drew and Jonathan Scott are sharing a preview of their 'not-yet-available-in-stores' outdoor furnishing line. Make it Right Mike Holmes talks his latest ventures on improving communities and skilled trades. And 'Consumer Reports' Senior Market Analyst Michael DiLauro is breaking down what's best in mowers and more.

So take a look around. And dare to be awesome. You can always repaint your house beige—but not today because awesome is now on MyFixitUpLife.

Find Additional Design Podcasts with MyFixitUpLife on BlogTalkRadio

Baeumler Family Foundation Gala Recap -- Part II

The second annual Baeumler Family Foundation Gala that was held this year on May 22, 2014 was apparently so massive, it outgrew one blog entry and into two! For more information on this charity event hosted by HGTV star Brian Baeumler and his wife Sarah, see Baeumler Family Foundation Celebrity Gala Recap and visit the BFF's official website.

Mike Holmes, who is a good friend of the Baeumler family, was in attendance with his lovely Anna at his side in a beautiful turquoise gown. From the pictures floating around on the web, it looks like everyone had a grand time. On May 28, Brian posted about 180 or so photos of the event on his public Facebook page. Here are some more photos of Mike from the HGTV-star studded gala:

Platinum Pro Painters Joins the "Make It Right" Family

It looks like Mike Holmes has added a new painting company to roster of skilled professionals he uses. Platinum Pro Painters in Calgary, Alberta Canada is the newest member of the "Holmes Makes It Right" family. The episode featuring the company is slated to air in the summer of 2014 according to the article below.

From DigitalJournal.com:

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary Announces Upcoming Appearance on HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary (http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com), the leading painting/renovating company serving Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Chestermere, and the surrounding areas, is reacting to the company being slated to appear on upcoming episode of HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right.

Calgary, Canada (PRWEB) May 30, 2014

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary (http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com), the leading painting/renovating company serving Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Chestermere, and the surrounding areas, is reacting to the company being slated to appear on upcoming episode of HGTV’s Holmes Makes It Right.

A spin-off of HGTV’s similarly successful Holmes on Homes, Holmes Makes It Right features host Mike Holmes, who has made a living on physically repairing people’s homes and giving them a second chance at being liveable, as the lead project coordinator.

“We’re so proud to be part of a company that is being recognized for our commitment to quality work,” says Chris White, owner of Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary. “All of our franchises share the same work ethic and principles across the board. It’s great to be acknowledged for those values.”

For the episode, currently scheduled to air in summer 2014, Platinum Pro Painters will be doing both interior and exterior residential work, both of which are part of what the company regularly offers its clients. White explains that the company’s workers will be doing what they do best; reviving people’s homes with high-quality paint jobs for both the interior and exterior of the house.

“Mike Holmes is a public figure who prides himself on repairing less than admirable houses,” White concludes. “He is constantly held to a high standard and being part of that is just further proof as to the quality of work that Platinum Pro Painters is known for.”

Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary is the premier painting/renovating company serving the Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, Cochrane, and surrounding areas. With more than 60 years of industry experience, Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary offers its clients a full range of professional residential and commercial services, including exterior and interior painting. Platinum Pro Painters also provides a host of other services, such as driveway sealing, pressure washing, graffiti removal, and vinyl and aluminium siding painting. Some of the areas served by Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary include Airdrie, Crossfield, Okotoks, Priddis, Strathmore, High River, Nanton, and Bragg Creek. To learn more about Platinum Pro Painters – Calgary, visit the company’s web site at http://www.PlatinumProPaintersCalgary.com or call toll-free 1-855-847-2468 (PAINT).

Mike's Super Busy Day Promoting His New Book

From the looks of it, Mike had a very busy media-filled day today as he made his rounds from public appearance to public appearance, all in an effort to promote his new book. The Holmes Manual, which hits the shelves June 3 in Canada, is a book that tackles homeowners most commonly asked questions about the nitty gritty of home maintenance. US fans can also purchase the book in Mike's official webstore on the MAKEITRIGHT.ca website.

Early this morning, Mike Holmes was at CTV for an interview on the CanadaAM morning show. See photos from Mike's interview:

After the interview, Mike was off to the First Canadian Place for a Holmes Manual Interview/Q&A. As expected, both the 12:15 PM and 1:15 PM sessions were complete packed! The interview was conducted by Canadian Living’s Brett Walther. Photos from Mike's visit:

Here's a small bit about Mike's appearance on the MyCanadianPlace.ca web calendar:

Mike Holmes in Conversation with Canadian Living’s Brett Walther
May-28-14, First Canadian Place Gallery
12:15 PM,1:15 PM
If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to know what’s behind your walls, no matter how nerve-wracking the thought might be. Canada’s Most Trusted Contractor Mike Holmes explains why at First Canadian Place with his new book The Holmes Manual – a must-have guide for homeowners.
A no-nonsense professional contractor, best-selling author, and the star of the hit TV series Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection and Holmes Makes It Right, Mike will be interviewed by Canadian Living’s Home and Garden Director, Brett Walther. Mike will answer questions about his latest book, address common homeowner concerns, share season maintenance tips and even offer advice for buying and selling residential properties.
These two charming home experts will also ensure you understand how crucial it is to address issues around the home such as the state and condition of your walls (including the electrical, insulation, plumbing and other hidden elements) before you even begin to think about paint colours, hanging artwork or decorating.
After each session, Mike will be available for book signings. A signed copy of Mike Holmes’ The Holmes Manual makes a great gift for Father’s Day!
Presented in association with Indigospirt. The Holmes Manual arrives in stores May 27.Web: makeitright.ca/

Next, Mike was off for yet another interview with ETCanada. After the interview, Mike sat down to read some comments from his fans on Twitter (love those hipster reading glasses!).

For Mike's last appearance of the day, Mike did a book signing at the Toronto Public Library at 7PM. Again, very, very large crowds of people eager to meet Mike!

What an exhausting day! Mike deserves some R&R after a day like that! I can't wait to get a copy of Mike's new book!