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Showing posts from February, 2025

The Once-a-Year Home Maintenance Checklist (That Actually Matters)

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Let’s be honest. Most of us only think about home maintenance when something starts dripping, buzzing, or making a noise that sounds expensive. This is not that list. This is the once-a-year checklist that actually saves you money, stress, and surprise water features in your basement . You can do this in one afternoon. Maybe two, if you keep stopping for coffee and “just one more YouTube video.” Here we go. 1. Change your furnace filter (yes… really). If you can’t remember the last time you changed it, that’s your answer. A dirty filter: makes your furnace work harder lowers air quality and quietly increases your heating bill Pro tip: write the date on the new filter. Your future self will thank you. 2. Test your sump pump (before it becomes a personality test). Pour a bucket of water into the pit and make sure it: turns on pumps out and turns off again If it doesn’t, your basement may soon become a very exclusive indoor pool — especially with our spring melt and heavy rain around King...

Embracing Tiny Home Living in Ontario: A Comprehensive Guide

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The tiny home movement has gained significant traction in Ontario, offering a sustainable and affordable housing alternative. This guide delves into the essentials of tiny home construction in the province and highlights reputable local builders to help you embark on your tiny living journey. Understanding Tiny Homes Tiny homes are compact dwellings, typically ranging from 100 to 400 square feet, designed to maximize space efficiency and minimize environmental impact. They can be stationary or mobile, providing flexibility and a minimalist lifestyle. Legal Considerations in Ontario Before constructing or purchasing a tiny home in Ontario, it's crucial to understand local regulations: Zoning By-Laws: Municipal zoning laws dictate where tiny homes can be located. Ensure your desired location permits tiny home construction. Building Codes: As of January 1, 2022, Ontario's Building Code includes provisions for tiny homes, addressing aspects like size, safety, and off-site construct...

How to Start Your Suburban Farming Adventure

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As urban areas grow and fresh produce gets pricier, suburban farming is the way of the future—because let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a backyard full of delicious, homegrown food? Whether you’re starting with a single tomato plant or going all-in with a backyard farm, every little step towards self-sufficiency is a win. But how does one get started? No need to panic—you don’t need to quit your job and start wearing overalls (unless that’s your thing). Here’s how to begin your suburban farming adventure: 1. Assess Your Space Even if your yard is more “cozy” than “sprawling farmland,” you can make it work. Use raised beds, vertical gardens, or even balcony planters. If all else fails, befriend a neighbor with more space and trade them veggies for cookies. 2. Choose the Right Crops Stick with the easy wins—tomatoes, herbs, peppers, and leafy greens. They grow fast, taste great, and make you look like a gardening genius. Avoid growing things like artichokes unless you enjoy a challenge ...