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Understanding Window Terminology (Part 2)

Glazing Technology Low-emissivity (Low-E) consists of a thin layer of metal oxide applied to the exterior face of the interior glazing in a double-glazed window. This coating allows sunlight to pass through, but blocks heat from escaping. A double-glazed... Read >

Understanding Window Terminology

Familiarity with window terminology will assist you in buying the right type of window for your home. As windows generally last 20-25 years, new windows are not a frequent purchase item for homeowners. New technologies and performance standards have chang... Read >

Canada’s Housing Construction System: Improve Business and Technical Knowledge

The purpose of this document is to improve technical business and knowledge of the system of construction and operation of buildings and houses in Canada. The construction industry employs many workers with various skill levels, from entry-level labourer... Read >

Buying a Water-Efficient Toilet: Additional Considerations

There are a number of additional considerations besides flushing performance that you should think about when buying a toilet. These include the following: Rough-in Dimension The vast majority of North American homes have a rough-in dimension (the dista... Read >

Replacing Your Furnace: What do I buy?

Here are the most common questions about furnace replacements to CMHC staff from Canadians, and our usual answers: Should I switch my heating fuel? In most parts of Canada, it will be more expensive to heat with an electric furnace than one using oi... Read >

The Condominium Owners' Guide to Mold

The Condominium Owners' Guide to Mold Understanding molds mold can be harmful or helpful — depending on where it grows. mold needs moisture to grow. mold does not grow on dry materials. mold growing inside a condo can affect the occupants. occup... Read >

assessing the renovation project (2 of 2)

Avoid Surprises A systematic and thorough inspection will help you to assess the condition of your home. Look for any signs of deterioration and the possible causes. Start your inspection in the basement. Many problems in other parts of the house origi... Read >

How to Read a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) (3)

Section 7: Prevention This section tells you if you need to wear special clothing, or use ventilation and filter masks to protect yourself when using the product. Section 8: First Aid This section tells you what to do in an accident or emergency ... Read >

should you get your heating ducts c leaned?

A hot air furnace heats and distributes air through its ducting system.The ducts are usually made of sheet metal and are most obvious in your basement, where they hang from the floor joists.The return, or cold air, ducts bring air to the furnace, usually ... Read >

Hiring a Contractor

At some time, most homeowners will hire someone for repairs or renovations. Even a homeowner experienced in home repairs may have to hire a contractor or renovator because of the size or level of difficulty of the job. This fact sheet will help you choose... Read >

carbon monoxide

The presence of carbon monoxide (CO) in our homes is dangerous. So, how can you protect your family from carbon monoxide? How do you choose the right CO detector for your home? The first step is to make sure that carbon monoxide never enters your home. Th... Read >

Backup Power for Your Home

You rely on many appliances and systems in your home for your health, comfort and security. Most depend completely on utility-supplied electricity. It makes sense to have a backup system that will keep your family comfortable and your home safe in a power... Read >

your furnace filter

What a Furnace Filter Can do for You Traditionally, furnace filters were designed to protect the furnace and fans. With increased air quality awareness, some filters are now being installed to reduce exposure to particles which can affect your health. ... Read >

insulating your house

While previous generations may have been content to live in drafty houses, most people now want comfortable warm houses. A healthy house today is well sealed, well insulated and properly ventilated. A well-insulated house is a bit like dressing for the... Read >

the inportance of bathroom and kitchen fans

Bathroom and kitchen fans are an important part of your home's ventilation system. They remove odours from your house, which improves indoor air quality. They also remove moisture, which decreases the level of humidity in your house. High humidity can dam... Read >