Your Home Your Way | 2026

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY 2026 Special Supplement

APR03 - Long Weekend/Spring Savings - 8 pg tallboy - PG 8 - NAT APR03 - Long Weekend/Spring Savings - 8 pg tallboy - PG 8 - NAT APR03 - Long Weekend/Spring Savings - 8 pg tallboy - PG 8 - NAT

Finding the right blinds

APR03 - Long Weekend/Spring Savings - 8 pg tallboy - PG 8 - NAT

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YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Who do you call when the heat goes off? BY ABIOLA ODUTOLA

Brandon resident Huen Luo checks his furnace in his laundry room. (Weichen Zhang/The Brandon Sun)

W hen a Manitoba winter tightens its grip on Westman, a failing furnace isn’t just an inconve- nience — it’s an urgent problem. Indoor temperatures can drop quickly, pipes can freeze and what starts as a small issue can escalate into a costly emergency. For many homeowners, the first in- stinct is to call Manitoba Hydro. But what exactly happens when you do? Media relations officer Peter Chu- ra said the answer depends largely on the type of furnace and the nature of the problem. “Just to be clear,” Chura told the Sun. “We do not service or attend to electric furnaces.” For homes heated with natural gas, however, Hydro crews do play a key role, particularly when heat is lost or reduced. “If the furnace is not providing ade- quate heat, we will attend to ensure that there is no problem with the delivery of

natural gas to the customer,” he said. That distinction matters. While Hydro technicians may perform limited checks or light cleaning to help identify the is- sue, they do not fix common mechanical problems such as broken fans, clogged filters or worn internal components. In- stead, their visit helps rule out supply is- sues and guide homeowners toward the next step — typically calling a licensed HVAC technician. Understanding the difference between gas supply and furnace mechanics can save valuable time in an emergency. Hydro is responsible for the infrastruc- ture that delivers natural gas safely to your home. But once that gas reaches your fur- nace, the responsibility for maintenance and repair shifts to the homeowner and their contractor. That’s where companies like BHP Mechanical Service Group come in. Service technician Jordan Hope said

most “no heat” calls have little to do with the gas supply. “Faulty hot surface ignitors, faulty flame rods, worn motors and overall lack of cleanliness are the most common issues our team encounters,” he told the Sun. When gas is flowing properly, he said, the furnace may still fail to turn on or operate efficiently if key components are worn or dirty. Many of these issues, Hope said, are preventable. Regular maintenance is one of the simplest ways to avoid a mid-winter breakdown, yet it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong. “Furnaces should be inspected by a professional at the start of the heating and cooling season,” he said. That twice-a-year check can catch small problems, including a weakening ignitor or buildup on a flame sensor, be- fore they lead to a complete shutdown.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Homeowners also play a critical role in day-to-day upkeep, particularly when it comes to air filters. “Depending on the style of filter, it may be recommended to replace it once per month or quarterly,” Hope said. A clogged or dirty filter restricts air- flow, forcing the furnace to work harder. Over time, that strain can lead to over- heating, reduced efficiency and eventual failure.“Homes with pets or ongoing ren- ovations may need more frequent chang- es due to increased dust and debris,” Hope said. Furnaces rarely fail without warning — but those warnings are easy to dismiss. Hope said every sign should be promptly reported as a call for service, “whether it is inconsistent or erratic tem- peratures, unusual banging or rattling noises, weak airflow from vents or water pooling around the furnace.” Some warning signs are more urgent than others. The smell of natural gas, for instance, requires immediate action.

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YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Alexy Hernandez, a sheet metal worker with Brandon Heating and Plumbing, pulls together pieces of a new Lennox furnace being installed as part of a giveaway program to a family on Stickney Avenue last October. (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun files)

One area where Hydro’s role is clear is safety. In emergencies, such as suspected gas leaks or carbon monoxide concerns, “our services are free as we aim to ensure safe- ty,” Chura said. Chura said every visit includes checks for carbon monoxide and gas leaks as part of the standard procedure. If a home- owner suspects it before help arrives, the advice is immediate and non-negotiable: leave the house. For non-emergency situations — like a furnace that simply isn’t producing heat — Hydro’s re- sponse is typically same-day, within 19 hours. During the visit, technicians

no-heat calls within 30 to 120 minutes — significantly faster than utility response times for non-emergency issues. That quicker turnaround can make a critical difference during extreme cold, es- pecially for families with young children, seniors or vulnerable individuals. Homeowners sometimes assume Hy- dro provides full furnace inspections or maintenance, but “that’s not the case.” The utility does not conduct general furnace inspections unless tied to per- mitting for a newly installed unit. In In emergencies, such as suspected gas leaks or carbon monoxide concerns, our services are free as we aim to ensure safety. ~ Peter Chura Media Relations Officer, Manitoba Hydro

those cases, the only cost involved is the permit itself. For most routine or repair-related issues, Hydro directs customers to pri- vate contractors. “In most situations, customers should contact a technician,” Chura said. When temperatures plunge across the Westman region, response time becomes critical. That window can feel long during a deep freeze, making it all the more im- portant for homeowners to understand who to call and when. In practical terms, Hydro’s

role is to ensure gas flows safe- ly and reliably — not to fix the furnace itself. If your home is cold, Hydro can confirm whether the issue lies with the gas supply. If it doesn’t, the next call should be to a qualified HVAC professional. It’s a distinction that can save time — and stress — when the heat suddenly stops. Hydro’s job, Chura said, is to “help find the root cause” and guide homeowners toward the right solution.

will confirm whether natural gas is reaching the home and wheth- er there are any immediate safety concerns. If the issue lies within the furnace itself, homeowners will be advised to contact a pri- vate contractor. That’s when HVAC compa- nies step in. Hope said his team can usu- ally respond to local emergency

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KITCHEN TRENDS FOR 2026: Warmer, Smarter and More Personal Than Ever

Kitchen design in 2026 continues to move away from overly polished spaces toward something far more intentional — kitchens that feel warm, func- tional, and tailored to real life. Homeowners are prioritizing designs that balance timeless style with modern convenience, creating spaces that not only look beautiful but work effortlessly every day. One of the most noticeable shifts is in cabinet door styles . While traditional shaker doors remain a staple, the evolution toward slim shaker profiles is gaining momentum. These narrower rails and styles offer a cleaner contemporary look while maintaining the familiarity homeowners want. Flat slab doors remain popular in modern spaces. Colour is also evolving. Bright whites are giving way to warmer neutrals, soft hues, and natural wood tones. These palettes bring a sense of calm and connection to nature, often paired with mixes finishes to add depth without overwhelming the space. Integrated and under cabinet lighting , elevate both function and atmosphere, adding a refined, high-end feel. Homeowners are asking for better storage, cleaner sight lines, and dedi-

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YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Moving with pets Moving is stressful for everyone, including your pets. Dogs, cats and small animals depend on familiar smells, routines and people to feel secure. Planning ahead before a big move can help ease the transition for them.

(File)

Before moving day Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible in the days leading up to your move. Feed them at the same times, stick to regular walks and play sessions and keep their favourite toys and beds accessible. If you’re travelling a long distance with your pet, speak with your veterinarian at least three weeks before the move. They can advise you on travel safety, update vaccinations if needed and determine whether medication or calming products may help reduce anxiety.

On moving day Create a quiet, secure space for your pet, such as a closed room, crate or carrier, situated away from open doors, loud noises and heavy foot traffic. Movers going in and out can easily startle your furry friend, increasing the risk of an es- cape. If possible, arrange for your pet to stay with a trusted friend, family mem- ber or reputable daycare facility until the move is complete.

After moving day When you reach your new home, set up your pet’s area first. Place their bed, toys and food in one calm room and allow them to explore gradually. Keep other doors closed at first and then slowly in- troduce new areas. Give them plenty of time to adjust at their own pace. Moving marks a big transition. With patience and preparation, you can help your pet feel safe every step of the way.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Expert tips for loading a moving truck properly

1. Start with large, heavy items Load large, heavy pieces like appliances, dressers, sofas, refrigerators, washers, bed frames and dressers first. Place these items against the front wall of the truck closest to the cab in an “I” formation. Stand mattresses upright along the walls to save space. Use moving straps or tie-downs to secure heavy pieces and prevent shifting during transit. 2. Build tight, balanced layers Once the largest items are secure, fill empty spaces in layers. Tight packing minimizes movement and reduces the risk of damage. Place medium-weight items, such as boxes of books, directly on the floor or against heavy pieces to reinforce stability. Next, load lightweight boxes, linens and soft goods on top. Rugs, blankets and pillows work perfectly for filling gaps and cushioning sharp corners, wood finishes or fragile surfaces. Distribute weight evenly from side to side and from front to back to keep the truck balanced and easier to control. 3. Protect fragile items Load clearly marked “fragile” boxes last and place them on top of heavier items where they won’t be crushed. Wrap items like glass- ware, mirrors and electronics in moving blankets or pads to protect against scratches and dents during transit. Whenever possible, keep valuables, important documents and sentimental items with you in the cab of the truck. Taking time to plan your load reduces stress, protects your be- longings and makes moving day far more efficient.

LOAD LIKE A PRO Packing a moving truck the right way can make a big difference in how smoothly your move goes and ensure your belongings survive the journey.

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YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Finding the right blinds for your windows BY WENDY KING

Versatile, stylish and functional, blinds and shades deliver value and beauty to your home decor. (Adobe - Katarzyna Bialasiewicz) Q uality blinds and shades can let you control the amount of light in your room, offer privacy, bring

starting with controlling the light with your choice of materials. The opacity of the material is an indicator of how much light will come through. Blinds can be composed of a variety of materials or fabrics, including vinyl, polyester and even wood. “Decorative fabrics have a variety of opacity. We have fabrics that have a per- centage of opacity. We also have decora- tive fabric that provides room darkening,” Maslaniec says. If you choose room darkening or a one per cent opacity, that will block out a lot of the sun to help control the temperature of your room. ~ Melanie Maslaniec, Creative Consultant at Interior Images

“You don’t technically have ‘blackout’ because you can sometimes still see light on the sides. But you cannot see through the fabric itself when it’s a room darken- ing fabric.” The degree of light control will vary with decorative fabrics. Light can also be controlled with the style of the blind. “Take a top-down, bottom-up shade, for instance. You can pull it down to re- veal the open window, or you can have a sheer portion there. You can let in a little bit of light, and then when you want it blacked out, you can lift it up,” she says. “And then there are banded or the dual shades, where you get bands of fabric that interplay with each other. You can do that in a blackout as well, and then re- veal as much light as you want.” Some blinds offer insulating value. Cell shades are made of two layers of fabric with a pad of air in a honeycomb or cell. The trapped air is what insulates. Continued on page 10

colour and pattern to your room, and with some styles, even improve the R val- ue of your windows. With so many options, it might be a bit of a challenge to make a decision. Melanie Maslaniec, a creative consul- tant at Interior Images (interior-images. ca) says consulting with a professional can help. “We do like to make sure we get the right product and then from there we work on the de- sign,” Maslaniec says. “We help guide clients through the process. We will ask what their needs are, wheth- er they’re looking for a blind or some drapery, and what kind of light control they like and then we start drilling it down from there.” Blinds and shades (which are two names for the same thing) can fulfil different functions,

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Melanie Maslaniec, creative consultant at Interior Images, likes the versatility of blinds and shades for window coverings. (Interior Images).

“Most blinds will help with some temperature control, especially if you’ve got the sun beating in. If you choose room darkening or a one per cent opacity, that will block out a lot of the sun to help control the temperature of your room,” Maslaniec says. Motorization is another option where the blinds can be opened or closed with the touch of a button.This is an especially good option for people who may have is- sues with mobility or grip strength. “We have remotes and we can do a motorized wand, which is a switch that’s on a wand attached to the line. For peo- ple who can’t lift blinds, I like the wand,” she says. The wand is charged just as you would a phone. Maintenance for blinds is straight- forward. The lift systems are designed to work efficiently so there’s no need for a

heavy hand when opening and closing blinds — too much force can do damage and repairs would be necessary. And for the most part, cleaning will also take a light hand with a gentle wipe with a bit of soapy water, Maslaniec says. “Mostly it’s just vacuuming and spot cleaning. We have a service where we can clean blinds. People would just bring the blinds in for cleaning as well as repairs,” she says. Blinds can be combined with full draperies or highlighted with some drap- ery fabric. “It’s nice to have a little bit of fabric, which also provides some insulation from the weather. Even just having some side panels around your blinds in a fabric that you love is nice as a great option to just soften the look of the blinds,” she says. Blinds are going to be an enhancement to your decor, so if you have swatches of

paint or fabrics, it is helpful to have them in hand when selecting the type of blind you want. Photos of your room can also help to guide selection. “I think that there is a general trend towards warmer tones and even the whites and greys are a little bit warmer, including mid-tone browns,” Masla- niec says. “Botanical patterns are always very popular and tropical is still popular. We’re seeing a trend towards geometric, but more in soft lines and soft colours.” Hardware is also moving to a warmer look with brass, gold and cream colours. Whether it’s time for a contempo- rary “spruce-up” or a whole new look for your home, choosing the right blinds can be the functional finishing touch you’re looking for.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Ground cover varieties to explore Is maintaining your lawn becoming a chore? Consider replacing part of your grass with ground cover.

(File)

These low-growing plants offer plenty of benefits while helping support local biodiversity. Here are reasons to make the switch: Save time on maintenance A diverse lawn resists disease, pests and harsh weather better than grass alone. Ground cover plants spread quickly and crowd out weeds naturally. Say goodbye to chemical sprays! They also form a protective layer over the soil, which helps to slow water evapo- ration. This means your lawn will bounce

back more easily from summer drought, especially in sparser areas, such as spots under trees or in shady corners. Add style and originality to your yard Who says lawns must be green? Many types of ground cover bloom for weeks, adding a touch of colour and originali- ty to your landscaping. Plant them along pathways, near low walls or between de- corative pavers, and let nature do its work. Support the environment Ground cover plants generally require less watering than traditional turf. They

also attract pollinators and provide a va- luable source of food, especially late in the season. Support the bees and butterflies! You have plenty to choose from when it comes to ground cover plants. For exa- mple, white clover and lesser periwinkle grow almost anywhere. Creeping thyme tolerates light foot traffic, and sedum is relatively resistant to drought and tem- perature swings. Visit a garden centre or nursery in your area for more information about ground cover plants.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

LANDSCAPING: Designs that address the challenges of climate change

(File)

T he effects of climate change are in- spiring homeowners to make their properties more resilient in the face of extreme weather events, wildfires and unpredictable growing seasons. Sustain- able landscaping practices may be part of the solution. Grow native plants When you opt for plant species that grow naturally in your region, you’ll need to rely less on additional plant management practices like irrigation or temperature controls.

Choose eco-friendly materials A more sustainable garden includes fur- niture and other landscape features made of environmentally responsible materi- als. Natural materials and fibres have the benefit of biodegradability. Additionally, corrosion-resistant materials like metal and fibreglass are long-lasting and there- fore require less frequent replacement. Incorporate technology Moisture sensors and sprinkler tim- ers minimize water wastage by en- suring your plants get just the right amount of water at just the right time.

New adaptive lighting solutions can moderate light exposure and help counter the effects of light pollution. Add weather-resilient features Strategic landscaping features can help protect your home from extreme weather events. Well-placed trees and hedges can serve as windbreaks. A stormwater drainage system can limit the effects of flooding. Ask your local landscaper how you can make your property more resilient to climate change.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Warning signs One or more of the following signs may indicate that your tree needs support: • The roots are visible or are lifting out of the soil • The trunk is bending under its own weight • The root ball moves when you gently pull the trunk upward • Strong winds regularly push the tree off balance Proper staking Purchase a long, sturdy wooden or metal stake. Drive it into the ground just outside the root ball. Position it on the side facing the prevailing wind. Push the stake at least 60 centimetres into firm, un- disturbed soil to ensure good support. Next, secure the trunk to the stake using a tie. The tie should be flexible and wide, so it doesn’t cut into the bark and injure the tree. A nylon stocking, a strip of bicycle inner tube or a soft cotton band will do the trick. You can also purchase specialized tree ties at a garden supply retailer. Wrap the tie in a figure-eight pattern between the stake and the trunk before knotting it. Visit a local garden centre for more advice.

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(File)

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YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

Essentials (and luxuries) for your Outdoor Kitchen

As warm weather approaches, transform your backyard, patio or balcony into an inviting space for guests to enjoy delicious meals. Here are some features you can incorporate into your outdoor kitchen to impress your friends and make the most of the summer season. Summer evenings can get chilly. Consider installing a patio heater to keep you and your guests comfortable. (Adobe - Ozgur Coskun)

Smoker Do you want to take your outdoor kitchen to the next level? Invest in a smoker for preparing meat and fish. While some smokers can be pricey, you can find models starting at only a couple hundred dollars. Kegerator For a professional touch, install a kege- rator with beer or kombucha to bring everyone together. This unique addition is sure to add fun to your gatherings and is well worth the investment. Visit your local retailers to create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

Barbecue The ultimate symbol of summer, the barbecue is an essential part of any out- door kitchen. Find a model that fits your space and budget - whether it’s built-in, freestanding or portable. Get ready to grill mouth-watering meals! Versatile work surface You need space to prepare mari- nades and assemble plates. Invest in a weather-resistant countertop made from materials like stainless steel or granite. Hello, style and functionality! If space is tight, consider a removable sideboard. Sink Avoid the hassle of running in and out to rinse glasses and plates by adding a sink to your outdoor kitchen. You can

choose from a variety of models, inclu- ding those that connect directly to your home’s plumbing or to an outdoor hose

for convenience. Fridge or Cooler

Summer calls for cold drinks! Keep your lemonade, alcohol and meal-prep ingre- dients chilled with an outdoor fridge. Position it strategically so your guests have access to it, too. For a budget-frien- dly option, consider a patio cooler. Comfy furniture Create a welcoming atmosphere with high-quality, inviting outdoor furni- ture. Pick comfortable seating, a large sunshade or awning and a sturdy table to enhance the experience.

YOUR HOME YOUR WAY n THE BRANDON SUN n APRIL 2026

15 V arnish creates a waterproof layer on your deck’s surface. Although it provides a protective barrier, it can eventually break down and flake off when wood repeated- ly warps and swells due to weather variations. Water-repellent treatments work differently. They penetrate deep into the pores of the wood, preventing other liquids from seeping in. Always consider the type of wood your deck is made from before buying a product. There are two main types of water-repellent treatments: Water-based formulas — dry quickly and contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them a healthier and more en- vironmentally friendly option.They work best on porous woods, such as pine, spruce and red cedar. Solvent-based formulas — contain higher levels of VOCs but penetrate more effectively into dense or oil-rich woods. They’re best used on hardwoods like teak or ipe. Clean the deck thoroughly. Make sure the wood is completely dry before applying the wa- ter-repellent treatment, ideally after at least 48 consecutive hours without rain. Visit a specialty retailer in your area for per- sonalized advice.

Varnish is commonly used to protect decking from the elements. However, this type of product tends to flake off over time, prompting many homeowners to turn to water-repellent treatments.

Choosing a water-repellent treatment for your wooden deck

(File)

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