5 of the Worst Disasters Bryan Baeumler Has Encountered in Canadian Homes

In my experience of renovating and constructing in various homes, I have seen issues that not only pose a threat to the structure and security of a house, but also to the health and safety of the homeowners. Here are the most common disasters I have come across in Canadian homes, and ways to prevent them from happening to you.

Bryan Baeumler is one of HGTV Canada’s go-to contractors and the host of Island of Bryan, Bryan Inc., House of Bryan and Leave it to Bryan.

A window in a renovated home with poor ventilation

Baeumler Productions Inc.

1 / 5

1. Ventilation/Exhaust Problems

Poor ventilation is a common issue we see in many Canadian homes. This can not only cause issues within the home, but also for those residing under its roof. Most commonly, poor ventilation can lead to elevated levels of humidity resulting in moisture, which in turn creates mildew and mold. This could result in issues with your family’s health, including respiratory illnesses, asthma or something else further down the line. In an extreme situation, a home with poor ventilation can also potentially cause harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, to become sealed within the home. So, take care of your family by ensuring that your home has the proper ventilation.

Signs of a pest infestation in a home under renovation

Baeumler Productions Inc.

2 / 5

2. Infestations

If your home is improperly sealed, all sorts of critters will try to make it their home as well. Here we had a family of raccoons make themselves a home, using the insulation to make up their nests. From insects, to rodents and even larger animals, all sorts of pests can find their way into your home if you’re not taking the appropriate precautions. Often, different creatures can access the home through holes in the roof, chimney or soffits. Ensure that you don’t have any easy-access spots for them to get into the home. For rodents, make sure that you are sealed tight in places such as under the stairs, foundation and the entryway. Look for possible signs of infestation, including droppings, nests, noises in the walls or musky odours. If you see the signs of possible infestation, act early and call a professional.

A light switch in a home that is under renovation

Baeumler Productions Inc.

3 / 5

3. Faulty Wiring

Faulty wiring is something we encounter on the job quite often. Whether the wiring is just outdated or someone in the past once tried to DIY the electrical, it is a severe and potentially dangerous problem. There have been countless times while renovating a home that I have encountered exposed wiring, which can electrocute anyone who comes in contact with it. Another common issue we encounter is old wiring that becomes frayed over time. This is a definite fire hazard. When it comes down to electrical, ensure that your home is up to code to keep your family safe and your home secure.

Bryan Baeumler wears a hard hat and works on the exterior of a renovated home

Baeumler Productions Inc.

4 / 5

4. Flaws in the Foundation

The foundation can be the foundation of all further problems (Get it?). If there’s issues in your foundation, it can escalate to bigger and more costly problems, including uneven floors, humidity in the basement, joint separation, and more. This is an issue we see commonly within Canadian homes. If you’re noticing anything that could result in a faulty foundation, such as doors that don’t open properly or sagging window frames, call in a professional to evaluate.

Baeumler Productions Inc.

5 / 5

5. Poor Waterproofing

Whether it’s interior or exterior, improper drainage and waterproofing is the root cause for many problems within the home. In older homes, we see drainage systems that lack the proper functionality, which results in damp basements. Any type of dampness will result in elevated humidity levels, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.