Published by Mike Holmes
Mike Holmes, professional contractor and TV host on HGTV, is renowned for his commitment to quality and safety in home construction and renovation. He extends his expertise through the “Holmes on Homes Podcast,”, engaging in in-depth discussions with trade experts to empower listeners with practical advice on home safety and maintenance, building healthier homes, and industry innovations. Whether you're a DIYer, first-time homeowner, or professional contractor, each episode covers topics like aging in place and accessibility, indoor air quality, ending the skilled trades stigma and more.
Listen on Apple Podcasts44 min
Get ready to have your mind blown! In this episode, Mike Holmes teams up with Mark DiVito to reveal game-changing insights on siding that will revolutionize your home building and renovation journey. If you’re tired of compromised materials, costly upkeep, and settling for less, this conversation is your wake-up call! Discover expert insights on Innovative Siding Technologies, installation tips, and innovative products designed to safeguard your biggest investment — your home. The evolution of facade materials: from brick to innovative Cellular PVC Siding Why vinyl siding fails to deliver long-term durability and how to recognize installation pitfalls The groundbreaking technology behind Elite Cladding®’s Cellular PVC Siding and its incredible strength How proprietary formulations drastically reduce expansion and contraction compared to traditional vinyl The importance of proper installation techniques, including air gaps and expansion allowances The benefits of color consistency through the entire substrate versus surface-only coatings Advanced features like integrated lighting, switches, and weather resistance in modern siding The story of a 110-year-old house transformed with Elite Cladding®’s Cellular PVC Siding, lasting a lifetime The real costs of maintenance and why investing in quality pays off over time How innovative designs and wider exposure profiles streamline installation and elevate aesthetic appeal Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the importance of siding choices and historical evolution 00:37 - From brick to facades: what homeowners need to know 01:20 - Vinyl siding’s appeal and its limitations 01:57 - Cellular PVC Siding exceeds vinyl in durability 02:26 - The advantages of Elite Cladding®’sellular PVC Siding 03:07 - Common vinyl siding installation mistakes and their consequences 03:58 - The significance of weather-dependent installation 05:01 - The importance of proper installation, including air spaces 06:40 - The perception of wood siding and maintenance costs 07:48 - The low-maintenance alternative: Cellular PVC 09:13 - How surface treatments improve product durability 12:26 - Metal siding pros and cons in harsh climates 12:46 - The innovation of Elite Cladding®’sellular PVC Siding Technology 13:29 - The significance of formulation in reducing material expansion 15:20 - Physical testing of product strength and durability 16:48 - Color options, including dark and black finishes that withstand the sun 18:14 - Long-term color stability and UV resistance 19:43 - The layered technology protecting your home 20:27 - Real-world case of siding failure and lessons learned 22:36 - The lifetime warranty and what it means for homeowners 23:00 - The vision behind the Elite Cladding® and dedicated R&D 24:28 - Installation guidance and best practices 25:52 - Combining proper nails, air gaps, and movement allowances 30:40 - Stylish vertical board and batten designs 33:10 - Market reception and homeowner appeal 36:36 - Innovations like butt joint connectors and minimizing gaps 39:05 - Expansion, contraction, and thermal considerations 41:42 - The potential for thermal breaks and soundproofing 43:25 - Supporting smart, resilient home solutions Resources & Links: Elite Cladding® Official Website — elitecladding.com
25 min
In this episode, Mike Holmes sits down with Jenilee Common, CEO of Leaf Home and Erie Home, and Chris Counahan, Chief Sales Officer, to explore the importance of protecting your home from water damage, gutter debris, and fire risks. Discover expert insights on durable systems, installation tips, and innovative products designed to safeguard your biggest investment — your home. The evolution and scale of Leaf Home and Erie Home's operations across North America Why gutter protection is crucial year-round, especially in winter and storm seasons How proper gutter systems prevent water infiltration and foundation damage The benefits of high-capacity, rated gutter protection solutions with real life example from LeafFilter’s rain machine The significance of proper installation, maintenance, and craftsmanship in extending your home’s lifespan The dangers of DIY gutter cleaning and ladder falls The importance of regular home inspections and proactive maintenance Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Homes on Homes podcast and episode focus 00:28 - Protecting homes from water damage via exterior systems 01:12 - Backgrounds of Jenilee Lee Common and Chris Counahan 02:24 - The scale and growth of Leaf Home and Erie Home in North America 03:30 - The importance of gutters and exterior water management 04:32 - How gutter protection prevents overflow and damage 05:02 - Key features of LeafFilter’s industry-leading design and airflow 06:00 - Recognizing signs of gutter failure around your home 06:36 - Water infiltration and foundation risks from poor drainage 07:06 - Ratings and testing of gutter protection products 08:15 - The advantages of larger gutter sizes and preventing overflow 08:48 - Risks of ladder falls and benefits of professional installation 10:10 - The value of a lifetime, transferable warranty and professional gutter services 11:00 - How proper exterior maintenance supports aging in place 11:31 - Signs of gutters and fascia damage that need attention 12:00 - Long-term solutions: protecting the foundation and home value 13:02 - The role of craftsmanship in home protection systems 13:40 - How to identify poor water management through visible signs 14:08 - The importance of training and certification for installers 14:27 - The team's experience with over two million homes 15:21 - The real risks of ladder accidents and fall safety1 6:21 - Seasonal concerns: leaf accumulation, stagnant water, pests like scorpions and rodents 20:21 - The integration of roofing, gutters, and protection systems for full home safety 21:25 - The growth and opportunity within the industry to serve communities 22:19 - Why proactive inspection and maintenance save money and prevent damage 23:42 - The interconnectedness of roofing, gutters, and overall home health 24:10 - The connected system for water, pest, and weather protection 24:39 - The importance of full-system thinking and homeowner education 25:28 - Final thoughts: safeguarding your home, your family, and your peace of mind Resources & Links: Leaf Home Official Website - leafhome.com Erie Home Official Website - eriehome.com LeafFilter Gutter Protection - LeafFilter.com/HOLMES
9 min
This podcast episode with Mike Holmes is a powerful wake-up call about how we buy, build, and think about homes—especially for longevity and unexpected life changes. Hosted by Mike Holmes, we dive deep into how considerations like accessibility, future-proofing, and smart design can transform houses into forever homes for every stage of life.
14 min
In this episode, Mike Holmes gets his own well water tested and discusses water testing, water quality, and filtration systems with experts from Kinetico. Learn how to assess your water, understand key metrics like TDS and pH, and discover the importance of proper water treatment for health and home maintenance.keywordswater testing, water quality, water filtration, TDS, pH, water softeners, home water health, well water, water treatment systems Key topics Water testing process and tools Understanding TDS and pH levels Water treatment options and sizing Importance of water filtration for health
42 min
On this episode, Mike Holmes explores innovative roofing technologies, focusing on smog-reducing, reflective, and algae-resistant asphalt shingles. Experts discuss how these advancements benefit homeowners, the environment, and the importance of building sustainably. keywords roofing, shingles, smog reduction, reflective coating, algae resistance, sustainable building, home improvement, energy efficiency, environmental impact key topics Smog-reducing coating technology on shingles Reflective pigments to reduce attic heat Algae resistance and Scotchgard technology Impact of roofing on energy efficiency and urban heat islands Importance of building longevity and sustainability Special Guests: Randy Morgan, 3M Mike Holmes Jr Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Quality Roofing 02:50 Innovative Shingle Technologies 06:11 Understanding Energy Efficiency and Insulation 09:02 Aesthetic and Longevity Considerations 12:12 Environmental Impact of Roofing Choices 15:05 Commercial Roofing Solutions 18:10 The Role of Education in Roofing Choices 24:11 The Importance of Sustainable Roofing 26:34 Innovative Roofing Technologies 30:48 Understanding Algae and Its Impact 35:30 Water Management in Home Design 39:14 Collaboration for Better Roofing Solutions Resources Benefits of cool roofing from the Cool Roof Rating Council - coolroofs.org - 3M Roofing Granule Technologies – 3m.com/roofinggranules - Atlas Designer Shingles – atlasroofing.com About this episode: Mike Holmes shares his take on game-changing asphalt shingle technology that goes beyond the basics—offering superior durability, weather resistance, and long-term protection. In Mike’s opinion, these advancements aren’t just upgrades—they should be the new minimum standard in building codes. If you’re a homeowner, contractor, or anyone planning a renovation, this episode is a must-listen. Learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how the right roofing choices today can save you major headaches tomorrow.
21 min
In this episode, Mike Holmes and experts Joe and Nick DiMarco from Weeds Be Gone discuss the critical state of our lakes and waterways, exploring how nutrient overloads, algae blooms, and invasive weeds threaten aquatic ecosystems. They share innovative solutions like nutrient sponges, aeration systems, and sustainable management practices to restore water health and prevent environmental disasters.
8 min
This Mike Holmes podcast episode is a powerful wake-up call about how we buy, build, and think about homes—especially for longevity and unexpected life changes. Hosted by Mike Holmes, we dive deep into how considerations like accessibility, future-proofing, and smart design can transform houses into forever homes for every stage of life.In this episode: Why minimal code standards often fall short of future needs How to identify homes that can accommodate changing physical abilities The importance of larger doors, ramps, and adaptable layouts Real-life stories of families modifying homes post-accident or illness How building or buying with a future-proof mindset saves money and heartache The role of specialists in accessibility and where most renovations go wrong Why standard home inspections should include accessibility assessments Practical tips for evaluating a property's potential for long-term use
37 min
In this episode of the Homes on Homes podcast, Mike Holmes discusses innovative construction technologies with guests Andy from HP Site Print and Peter from Building Point. They explore the revolutionary site printing technology that enhances layout efficiency, reduces human error, and saves costs on construction projects. The conversation delves into the impact of this technology on the surveying industry, real-world applications, and success stories from various projects. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of inspiring the next generation of tradespeople through education and technology. takeaways The site printing technology can significantly reduce layout time and costs. Using site printing eliminates human error in construction layouts. The technology allows for multi-language printing, improving communication on job sites. Stakeholders can visualize projects before construction begins, leading to better decision-making. The construction industry is facing a shortage of skilled workers, making technology essential. Site printing technology can prolong careers by reducing physical strain on workers. The integration of technology in construction is attracting younger generations to the trades. Real-world applications of site printing have shown substantial cost savings and efficiency improvements. The construction industry must adapt to new technologies to remain competitive. Education and exposure to technology are crucial for inspiring future tradespeople. Keywords: site printing, construction technology, innovation, Mike Holmes, building efficiency Site printing reduces human error in construction. The technology saves significant time and costs. Site printing can print layouts directly on the floor. Takeaways
40 min
In this podcast episode, Mike Holmes and a panel of experienced builders discuss the current state and future of skilled trades. They explore the challenges faced by the industry, including a shortage of young workers, economic impacts, and the importance of training and apprenticeships. The conversation highlights the need for better exposure and encouragement for youth to enter trades, as well as the evolving perceptions of contractors. Innovations in building materials and technology are also discussed, along with the significance of community involvement and collaboration with educational institutions to attract new talent. Special Guests: Brice Bernskoetter, Bernskoetter Construction (Missouri, USA), 2nd Generation builder, luxury and custom homes Mac Frame: Frame Custom Home s (Kelowna, BC), 2nd Generation builder, taking on the family business of over 20+ years Andrei Sonsovski, Sosna Inc. (GTA, Ontario) - 26 yrs experience in full-service home renovations Main Topics: skilled trades, construction industry, youth engagement, building materials, training, apprenticeships, economic factors, contractor perceptions, technology in construction, community building
51 min
In this episode of the Homes on Homes podcast, Mike Holmes discusses the critical issues surrounding plumbing, particularly focusing on water quality, plumbing infrastructure, and the importance of maintenance. Joined by plumbing experts from Precise Plumbing, they delve into the hidden dangers of city water, the role of sump pumps, and the necessity of regular plumbing inspections. The conversation emphasizes the need for homeowners to be proactive in testing their water and maintaining their plumbing systems to prevent costly damages and ensure safety. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of plumbing, including the importance of identifying hidden water waste, the necessity of documentation in home maintenance, and the value of education in the trades. They emphasize the significance of hiring licensed plumbers, common plumbing mistakes to avoid, and the challenges posed by radon and water quality. The discussion also covers best practices for toilet maintenance and the importance of educating homeowners about plumbing issues. takeaways Water quality is often overlooked but crucial for home safety. City water can be contaminated and unsafe for consumption. Sump pumps are essential for managing water flow in homes. Older plumbing systems may not meet current standards and can cause issues. Regular maintenance of plumbing systems can prevent major problems. Testing water quality should be a priority for homeowners. Proper plumbing can save homeowners from costly damages. Understanding plumbing infrastructure is key to preventing flooding. Water treatment systems are necessary for safe drinking water. Homeowners should be proactive in plumbing inspections and maintenance. Quiet water wasters can lead to unexpectedly high bills. Regular plumbing inspections provide peace of mind for homeowners. Documentation of home maintenance is crucial for future sales. Education in the trades is essential for quality work. Homeowners should be aware of the importance of permits. Understanding plumbing challenges can prevent costly mistakes. Radon and water quality are critical issues in home safety. Avoid putting grease down the drain to prevent clogs. Only toilet paper should go down the toilet; other items cause blockages. Hiring licensed plumbers ensures quality and compliance with codes.
2 min
I want to take a moment to honor my friend and colleague, Frank Cozzolino . Frank was more than just a skilled tradesman—he was a man who stood for excellence, integrity, and doing things the right way. I had the privilege of working alongside him, and I saw firsthand the dedication, passion, and heart he put into every project he touched. Frank wasn’t just about building homes; he built trust, mentorship, and inspiration. His work ethic set the standard, and his kindness left a mark on everyone lucky enough to know him. The trades community—and all of us who had the pleasure of calling him a friend—has lost a true professional and a genuine human being. Rest in peace, Frank. Your legacy of craftsmanship and character will continue to inspire us all.
1 min
If a contractor tells you that you don't need permits for electrical work, structural, additions - RUN AWAY from that contractor https://makeitright.ca/holmes-advice/home-renovation/why-you-need-a-building-permit/ .
9 min
In this clip, I sit down with expert basement renovator, Ben Wiley from Calgary. We discuss the complexities of creating legal basement apartments, covering the necessary permits, costs, design considerations, and the impact of regulations. We also discuss the importance of understanding local codes, the financial implications of renovations, and the evolving attitudes towards secondary suites in residential neighborhoods. What are some of the issues (like asbestos) that you need to budget for before renovating your basement? Keywords: basement apartments, legal suites, construction costs, design considerations, asbestos, government incentives, housing solutions, family living arrangements, permits, neighborhood dynamics
27 min
Join me, Mike Holmes on the Homes on Homes podcast as I explore the cutting-edge world of home innovation with Kevin and Brad from iGUIDE. Discover how 3D imaging and LiDAR technology are revolutionizing home inspections, providing unparalleled documentation and protection for homeowners, contractors, and real estate professionals. Learn about the endless possibilities of this technology, from creating detailed floor plans to conducting virtual tours, and how it can save time and money while ensuring accountability and trust in the construction and real estate industries. Tune in to see how iGUIDE is setting new standards in home documentation and maintenance. construction, innovation, iGUIDE, home inspections, 3D imaging, technology, documentation, real estate, efficiency, accountability
10 min
Join us as we dive into the world of basement renovations with Ben Wiley from Basement Builders in Calgary. Discover the ins and outs of transforming your basement into a profitable rental suite. From understanding the permit process and design considerations to navigating costs and maximizing returns, this episode covers everything you need to know. Whether you're looking to add value to your home or create a secondary income stream, this conversation is packed with insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your basement space!
7 min
This conversation delves into the critical role of gut health in overall well-being, focusing on how it affects nutritional absorption, particularly B12, and the implications of modern dietary changes. Mike Holmes, Dr Vic and Dr Mike discuss the prevalence of gut issues in society, the importance of hydration, and the need for education on maintaining gut health. Takeaways The intestines are designed to absorb nutrients effectively. Many people are unaware of the importance of intrinsic factor for B12 absorption. Acid reflux and proton pump inhibitors can hinder nutrient absorption. Modern diets have introduced harmful ingredients that affect gut health. Gut health is linked to various health issues, including ADHD. Hydration is often overlooked but is essential for cellular function. The gut is referred to as the second brain due to its impact on overall health. Societal changes have led to increased gut issues and nutritional deficiencies. Education on gut health is crucial for improving public health. Maintaining gut health can lead to better skin, brain, and overall body function.
16 min
My daughter, Sherry Holmes, took over this podcast episode. Join them as they dive into the inspiring world of women in construction and trades. In this episode, hear from guests as they share their unique journeys into male-dominated fields, the challenges they've faced, and the triumphs they've achieved. Discover how early exposure to trades can empower young women and why representation matters. Tune in for a conversation that celebrates resilience, support, and the power of women in the trades. The conversation covers personal journeys, challenges in male-dominated fields, and the importance of early exposure to trades for young women. The episode highlights the support from male colleagues and the significance of representation in inspiring future generations. Keywords women in construction, trades, representation, male-dominated fields, empowerment Takeaways Women can excel in male-dominated fields. Early exposure to trades is crucial for young women. Support from male colleagues is vital. Representation inspires future generations. Personal journeys into trades are diverse. Challenges in trades can be overcome. Empowerment through learning on-site. Balancing career and family is possible. Encouragement is key to success. Trades offer fulfilling career paths.
10 min
Mike Holmes shares an electrical hazard story from his youth! This episode clip explores the importance of electrical safety, with Mike Holmes sharing personal stories and practical advice to prevent common hazards. The discussion covers the dangers of low voltage shocks, misuse of extension cords, and holiday lighting safety. Listeners will learn how to protect their homes and families from electrical mishaps, especially during the festive season.
20 min
Is your home feeling a little too stuffy? The truth is, fresh air is vital for a healthy home, and many people don’t realize how easy it is to improve their indoor air quality. In this episode, we’re exploring the powerful benefits of Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) for your living space. In part 2, of this 2-part series I chat with Panasonic Indoor Air Quality experts about the differences between ERVs and HRVs, how they work, and why they’re crucial for managing moisture while bringing fresh air into your living space. We'll also explore their newest spot ERV, the WhisperComfort 60, which I’ve installed in my sunroom, and I think it's brilliant! For more behind-the-scenes content, head to Makeitright.ca/podcast-season-4-episode-3-part-2-is-your-home-feeling-stuffy-solution/ Listen to more episodes of the Holmes On Homes Podcast on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify https://spoti.fi/442nUjX and Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/44kMi0E .
8 min
Join Mike Holmes on the Homes on Homes podcast as he explores the groundbreaking world of site printing technology with experts Andy from HP Site Print and Peter from Building Point. Discover how this innovation is revolutionizing construction by reducing human error, saving time and costs, and creating new opportunities for the next generation of tradespeople. Tune in to learn how site printing is setting a new standard in the industry and what it means for the future of building. Don't miss this insightful conversation!
Apple Podcasts rankings supplied by Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed August 1, 2026.
Apple and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.