Cam Allen

Buying a Factory-Built Home

Two-storey house with attic, surrounded by trees, under a clear sky

For the past three weeks I have written a series on factory-built homes. The first article covered some of the history of this type of home. Last week we delved into the various types of factory-built homes and how they differ.

Factory‑Built Housing Explained

Charming grey cottage with front porch in lush greenery

Last week we began this three-part series on factory-built homes with a brief history of this type of residential construction. This week we will describe how the main types of factory-built homes each has its own method of arriving at a residence ready to occupy as well as how they differ from conventional site-built homes.

A History of Factory-Built Homes in Canada

Single-storey tan siding house with black rooftop and front porch

Since the federal government announced its Build Canada Homes program to increase affordable housing, I have had a few questions and comments regarding this.

Choosing the Right Front Door for Your Home

Elegant wooden front door with stone facade and vibrant garden

There was a time when the front entrance of a home was a decorative, often carved solid wood door. You then entered what is known as a vestibule and another door inside this enclosed entranceway. This was done in century homes to minimize the heat loss as you entered a home.

Is it Normal to Have Condensation on Your Windows in the Winter?

Condensation on window glass in a bright room

Just before Christmas I got a couple of inquiries about condensation on windows. In both cases the ladies who wrote to me lived in older, single-storey homes and they had taken advantage of some grant money to replace their older single pane

The Most Common Electrical Problems in Homes

Minimalist image of a white wall with a light switch

Last week we took a look at the basics of home electricity, your home electrical panel and where all the electricity for your home is distributed from

Home Wiring 101

Close-up of electrical circuit breakers and wiring in a blue-lit panel

Before Upgrading Your Electrical Supply Understand How It All Works and What to Watch For. Our comprehensive guide on electrical terms.

Insulate & Convert

White brick house with black shutters and two-car garage

It is not uncommon for me to get mixed inquiries that are a bit “rambling” and this week is one of them. I am going to touch on a couple of subjects

Heat Pumps 101

Close-up of industrial ventilation fan with metal blades

Last week we looked at heating systems in general and finished with a brief introduction to heat pumps. Heat pumps both air and ground

Home Heating 101

Outdoor air conditioning unit on red brick building facade

While one would think that all homes in the great white north have a fixed primary heating system, according to a study released by StatCan, as of 2023, 14 percent of Canadian homes still survive on portable heating methods while 88 percent of homes in rural Canada reported having a wood burning stove.