volatile-organic-compounds / Green Building & Sustainable Home Renovation Information & Advice

Mold in homes is a bad sign, so how to get rid of it or prevent mold in drywall? Mold and mildew in homes develop in conditions of high humidity, most often in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, unless caused by roof leaks and other building envelope failures. Along with affecting the durability of your home, mold and...

There is a current trend towards limiting the production of solvent-based paints, replacing them with solvent-free or water-based paints, often labelled as low-VOC paints or zero VOC paints. The move towards safe paint has led to a noticeable improvement in indoor air quality since the mid-seventies, and better even in...

Raising backyard chickens: a homeowner's and pro's guide For years there has been a growing trend towards raising chickens in an urban or suburban backyards, and the high price of eggs has only increased the interest. Eggs from chickens you raise yourself in the backyard are fresh, organic, and simply taste better. Thi...

Backyard composting: create your own rich garden soil from kitchen food scraps Composting is nature's ultimate recycling system, turning your kitchen scraps and yard waste into a nutrient-dense, soil-building material. For the eco-conscious homeowner, it's a direct way to reduce waste and landfill methane emissions. Fo...

Lawn grub & predator damage: a homeowner's & pro's guide Waking up to find your once-pristine lawn torn to shreds is a frustrating experience for any homeowner or property manager. This widespread damage is often caused by crows, raccoons, and skunks digging for a hidden food source: the larvae of beetles. Unde...

How to repair a clogged sink drain Has your kitchen drain started to drain slowly, or gotten to the point where it won’t drain at all? Food debris from rinsing plates can add up over time until it slows or even stops the flow of water. Hiring a plumber to clear drains is expensive, and possibly avoidable for those that...