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17/3/2026 0 Comments

Basement windows 101: what you need to know

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​In Ontario, a basement bedroom requires an egress window regardless of how often it is used. Under the Ontario Building Code (OBC), the requirement is based on whether the room is designed or used for sleeping, not the frequency of use. 

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6/2/2026 0 Comments

Comparing water Heaters and piping

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​When upgrading your home's water heating system, the "best" choice is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. It requires balancing upfront costs, long-term efficiency, and the physical realities of your home’s plumbing layout.

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4/2/2026 0 Comments

do you have a smart garage?

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​​The Future at Your Doorstep: Navigating the World of Smart Garage Technology

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31/1/2026 0 Comments

Smart Kitchen Design: Mastering Layout, Traffic, and Workflow

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​Designing a smart kitchen transcends mere aesthetics; it is about engineering a space that aligns with your movement patterns while ensuring safety and efficiency. A truly functional kitchen floor plan prioritizes the seamless flow of traffic and the logical orientation of appliances, turning one of the busiest rooms in the home into a stress-free environment. 

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30/1/2026 0 Comments

home improvement costs for 2026

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​In 2026, home renovation costs in Ontario generally range from $140 to $200 per square foot for mid-range projects, with major structural or "gut" renovations climbing toward $250 to $350+ per square foot. While urban centers typically trend higher, rural Eastern Ontario may see slightly more competitive labor rates. 

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23/1/2026 0 Comments

How Does Spray Foam Work?

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Upgrading your home’s insulation is one of the most effective ways to lower energy bills and improve comfort.

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19/1/2026 0 Comments

hydronic heating: what is it?

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​Hydronic heating—using a boiler (or water heater) to heat water and distribute it throughout a home—remains one of the most efficient and comfortable methods for residential climate control in 2026. 

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1/1/2026 0 Comments

The Great Canadian Switch: Heat Pumps in 2026

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​As of 2026, 
Canada  is in the midst of a historic shift in how it heats and cools its buildings. Historically a nation defined by its reliance on natural gas and heating oil, the Canadian landscape is rapidly transforming as high-efficiency heat pump technology becomes the standard for residential comfort. Driven by urgent climate targets, record-setting government incentives, and a new generation of cold-climate hardware, the "big switch" from fossil fuels to clean electricity is no longer a niche environmental goal but a mainstream economic reality.

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19/1/2022 0 Comments

Should you be worried about wood smoke?

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​(NC) There’s nothing like a warm fire on a cold day to nurture your soul. But despite its cozy scent, wood smoke contains pollutants that can be harmful, including chemicals and fine particles. Fine particles can penetrate deep into your lungs and bloodstream, sometimes leading to serious health effects or even death.

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28/10/2021 1 Comment

a home inspector shows you what he looks for

(Cityline Toronto)  VIDEO: Building inspector Frank Gruszewski shows you the key areas and potential issues he looks for on a home inspection job and why you should never skip it. "It could be the most expensive 4 to 500 dollars you ever save."
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    Author

    Gil Strachan is a professional home inspector, representing Electrospec Home Inspection Services in east-central Ontario since 1994.

    View my profile on LinkedIn

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