Q&A

Q:  Who to get in touch with about building codes and other regulations if you're planning to expand your cottage

Q:  This cottager has already tried a few tactics. Find out how to amplify small efforts

Q:  I use RV antifreeze to winterize my inboard/outboard. I’ve heard that in the spring, some people discharge it directly into the lake. Is this harmful? —Norma Goodger, via e-mail

Q:  Why do some people react to bug bites and others don’t? —Kate-Lynn Rich, Sylvan Lake, Alta.  

Q:  More than 40 years ago, three brothers bought three lots side by side, and each brother built a cottage. They dug a single well on the middle lot and shared it. Now the middle cottage has been sold, and the well went with it. The new owners are...

Q:  What is the best protective coating for pine floors? —Romano Del Tin, via e-mail    

Q:  We are in the process of renovating a cedar log home. The bottom logs were partially rotten, and we replaced them. We have recently found fine sawdust trickling out of holes in some of the other logs higher up, and we think we may have woodworms. How...

Q:  My daughters and I were swimming near a waterfall. The rocks below were covered with tiny, black, leech-like creatures (5-10 mm) that attached to our feet and hands. What were they? How do they survive the fast-flowing water? —Steve Power, Upper...

Q:  Are there any buildings that don't require permits? —Rachel Stockman, via e-mail    

Q:  I photographed this bird at our cottage near Bancroft. Can you help identify it? —Elsa Skuy, Monck Lake, Ont.