Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes

Mike Holmes sits down with Mike and Jeff from Senville to demystify heat pump technology for cold climates. If you still think heat pumps don't work in Canadian winters, think your 67 furnace is your only option, or think upgrading your hvac system is all-or-nothing — this episode will change your mind.We break down how modern inverter-driven air source heat pumps heat down to -30°C, how ductless mini-splits can fix that one hot or cold room, and why pairing a 58 heat pump with your existing furnace is the smartest hybrid move. Plus: proper sizing, pro installation traps to avoid, and rebates to check BEFORE you buy.What you'll learn:Do heat pumps actually work at -30°C?Inverter tech explained in plain English62 heat pump vs furnace : hybrid setup that saves moneyWhy bigger is NOT better for sizingInstallation mistakes that void your warrantyRebates and what to ask your contractorTimestamps: 00:00 Why Mike is dying without a mini-split in his bedroom 00:31 Why heat pumps exploded in the last 10 years 02:46 Inverter tech = adaptive cruise control for your house 07:20 The bedroom comfort fix09:44 Hybrid heat pump + furnace backup 12:08 -30°C performance, condos, garages and additions 16:21 Senville lineup: Lido vs Aura vs Elite 18:40 Rebates to check before you install 20:52 Installation mistakes and why you need a pro 27:46 Oversizing dangers 32:11 Refrigerant shift from R-410A to R-454B 43:42 What's next: air-to-water and heat pump water heatersGuest: Senville - Cold climate heat pumps, mini-splits and central systemsFollow Holmes on Homes for more on healthy homes, contractor hiring advice, and making it right. Got a cold room or high energy bills? Tell us in the comments — what should Mike dig into next?Resources and LinksHow-To's & Guides - Senville.comIndoor Fall Home Maintenance Checklist - Make It Right® - https://makeitright.ca/holmes-advice/home-safety-maintenance/indoor-fall-house-maintenance-checklist/10 Heat Pump Questions Homeowners Ask - Make It Right® - https://makeitright.ca/holmes-advice/hvac/10-heat-pump-questions-homeowners-ask/Blog - Senville.ca

This episode with Mike Holmes explores innovative roofing technologies, focusing on smog-reducing, reflective, and algae-resistant shingles. Guest Randy from 3M discusses how these advancements can improve energy efficiency, curb appeal, and environmental impact, highlighting the importance of choosing the right roofing products. key topicsSmog-reducing coating technologyReflective pigments for cooling roofsAlgae-resistant shingles with Scotchgard technologyImpact of roofing on attic temperature and energy billsCity-wide benefits of smog-reducing roofsLearn about the following:- Benefits of cool roofing from the Cool Roof Rating Council - coolroofs.org- 3M Roofing Granule Technologies – 3m.com/roofinggranules- Atlas Designer Shingles – atlasroofing.com

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 SidingWhy vinyl siding fails to deliver long-term durability and how to recognize installation pitfallsThe groundbreaking technology behind Elite Cladding®’s  Cellular PVC Siding and its incredible strengthHow proprietary formulations drastically reduce expansion and contraction compared to traditional vinylThe importance of proper installation techniques, including air gaps and expansion allowancesThe benefits of color consistency through the entire substrate versus surface-only coatingsAdvanced features like integrated lighting, switches, and weather resistance in modern sidingThe story of a 110-year-old house transformed with Elite Cladding®’s Cellular PVC Siding, lasting a lifetimeThe real costs of maintenance and why investing in quality pays off over timeHow innovative designs and wider exposure profiles streamline installation and elevate aesthetic appealTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the importance of siding choices and historical evolution00:37 - From brick to facades: what homeowners need to know01:20 - Vinyl siding’s appeal and its limitations01:57 - Cellular PVC Siding exceeds vinyl in durability02:26 - The advantages of Elite Cladding®’sellular PVC Siding03:07 - Common vinyl siding installation mistakes and their consequences03:58 - The significance of weather-dependent installation05:01 - The importance of proper installation, including air spaces06:40 - The perception of wood siding and maintenance costs07:48 - The low-maintenance alternative: Cellular PVC09:13 - How surface treatments improve product durability12:26 - Metal siding pros and cons in harsh climates12:46 - The innovation of Elite Cladding®’sellular PVC Siding Technology13:29 - The significance of formulation in reducing material expansion15:20 - Physical testing of product strength and durability16:48 - Color options, including dark and black finishes that withstand the sun18:14 - Long-term color stability and UV resistance19:43 - The layered technology protecting your home20:27 - Real-world case of siding failure and lessons learned22:36 - The lifetime warranty and what it means for homeowners23:00 - The vision behind the Elite Cladding® and dedicated R&D24:28 - Installation guidance and best practices25:52 - Combining proper nails, air gaps, and movement allowances30:40 - Stylish vertical board and batten designs33:10 - Market reception and homeowner appeal36:36 - Innovations like butt joint connectors and minimizing gaps39:05 - Expansion, contraction, and thermal considerations41:42 - The potential for thermal breaks and soundproofing43:25 - Supporting smart, resilient home solutionsResources & Links:⁠Elite Cladding® Official  Website⁠ — elitecladding.com

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 AmericaWhy gutter protection is crucial year-round, especially in winter and storm seasonsHow proper gutter systems prevent water infiltration and foundation damageThe benefits of high-capacity, rated gutter protection solutions with real life example from LeafFilter’s rain machineThe significance of proper installation, maintenance, and craftsmanship in extending your home’s lifespanThe dangers of DIY gutter cleaning and ladder fallsThe importance of regular home inspections and proactive maintenanceTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Homes on Homes podcast and episode focus00:28 - Protecting homes from water damage via exterior systems01:12 - Backgrounds of Jenilee Lee Common and Chris Counahan02:24 - The scale and growth of Leaf Home and Erie Home in North America03:30 - The importance of gutters and exterior water management04:32 - How gutter protection prevents overflow and damage05:02 - Key features of LeafFilter’s industry-leading design and airflow06:00 - Recognizing signs of gutter failure around your home06:36 - Water infiltration and foundation risks from poor drainage07:06 - Ratings and testing of gutter protection products08:15 - The advantages of larger gutter sizes and preventing overflow08:48 - Risks of ladder falls and benefits of professional installation10:10 - The value of a lifetime, transferable warranty and professional gutter services11:00 - How proper exterior maintenance supports aging in place11:31 - Signs of gutters and fascia damage that need attention12:00 - Long-term solutions: protecting the foundation and home value13:02 - The role of craftsmanship in home protection systems13:40 - How to identify poor water management through visible signs14:08 - The importance of training and certification for installers14:27 - The team's experience with over two million homes15:21 - The real risks of ladder accidents and fall safety16:21 - Seasonal concerns: leaf accumulation, stagnant water, pests like scorpions and rodents20:21 - The integration of roofing, gutters, and protection systems for full home safety21:25 - The growth and opportunity within the industry to serve communities22:19 - Why proactive inspection and maintenance save money and prevent damage23:42 - The interconnectedness of roofing, gutters, and overall home health24:10 - The connected system for water, pest, and weather protection24:39 - The importance of full-system thinking and homeowner education25:28 - Final thoughts: safeguarding your home, your family, and your peace of mindResources & Links:Leaf Home Official Website - leafhome.comErie Home Official Website - eriehome.comLeafFilter Gutter Protection - LeafFilter.com/HOLMES

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.