Remodeling discussions and local services.
jony44
Discussion activity
Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Ever regretted a fireplace facelift? Quick poll time
I totally get where you’re coming from. I used to be all about “authentic or nothing,” but after living with a 1920s fireplace that sheds dust every time someone sneezes, I’m starting to see the perks of something a litt...
RE: Delayed payments driving me nuts - does this ever get easier?
Honestly, I think being “too nice” gets a bad rap. I’ve had folks try to haggle or push back on deposits, but sometimes it’s just nerves about handing over cash before seeing anything. I get it - trust goes both ways. St...
RE: Navigating the do’s and don’ts of fixing up your place
Those magnetic strips are honestly a bit of a gamble, especially in older houses where nothing is totally straight. I had a similar problem in my back room - magnet barely held on one side, but stuck like glue on the oth...
RE: how much should I budget to renovate a beach house?
I get the appeal of composite decking, but I’ve actually stuck with pressure-treated wood on my old place and it’s held up better than I expected - maybe just luck or the way the wind hits us here? I do baby it with seal...
RE: Dealing with city red tape for building approvals
I totally get what you mean about the system feeling like it’s set up to catch you out. I’ve had my fair share of headaches with permits, especially owning an old house where every little thing seems to need a different ...
RE: how much did your bathroom remodel run you (roughly)?
Funny you mention the eco paints - I tried one in my powder room and it started peeling after a year. Maybe it’s just my old plaster walls, but I’m not convinced they’re all created equal. The recycled glass tile, though...
RE: my battle with moldy closets and frizzy hair
Cutting a vent made a bigger difference for us too. Old houses just seem to trap every bit of moisture, and those tubs only go so far. I used to forget about them for weeks, then find them all gross and overflowing... no...
RE: Turning attics and garages into bedrooms: is it worth the hassle?
Funny you mention permits… I had an inspector once who seemed more interested in my 1920s doorknobs than the attic reno. But when it came time to sell, the buyers’ agent asked for every scrap of paperwork. Some folks jus...
RE: Keeping Your Home Dry: Insulation Tips for Flood-Prone Areas
That line hits home. My place is pushing 120 years, and I swear the basement walls just sweat for fun. I tried one of those fancy “breathable” barriers once - didn’t help, just made everything damp and musty in new place...
RE: how often do you actually check your deck for safety?
Yeah, this is spot-on. I used to think checking once or twice a year was plenty until I stepped through a board after a particularly rainy spring... talk about an unexpected adrenaline rush, lol. Now I'm a bit paranoid a...
RE: my battle with moldy closets and frizzy hair
Totally agree about cedar being nicer smelling. I've got an older house and closets are always a struggle...tried charcoal first too, but cedar blocks really improved things. Didn't know about sanding though, gonna try t...
RE: Wrapping My House Up Like a Sweater - Worth the Hassle?
We did something similar, mostly sealing around doors and windows, but honestly, I'm still wondering if we missed out by not tackling the attic better. Anyone else notice a big difference after insulating up there? Seems...
RE: Natural cleaners vs store-bought stuff for appliances
I mean, vinegar does work pretty well, but honestly, the smell lingers longer than I'd like. Even with essential oils, my kitchen ends up smelling like lavender pickles for a bit... not exactly what I'm going for. I've a...