Month: October 2020

When it comes time to buy a new furnace, many homeowners focus on the right model and type. This is important, but investing in the right company to install your furnace is just as important, if not more. Take the time to research who you will hire, including their qualifications and experience. Doing this extra research will ensure your furnace is installed properly the first time and it performs efficiently for the long-term.

For a completely qualified and professional company, look no further than Acclaimed! Heating, Cooling & Furnace Cleaning. As an award-winning and customer minded company, they share the importance of choosing the right furnace Edmonton company to install your furnace:

Qualified companies assess your needs

While a low-cost installation seems like a tempting choice when replacing your old furnace, it’s not always worthwhile. Furnace models are becoming more efficient and economical, but proper installation is vital to them operating to their potential.

A qualified and experienced company will know that and assess your home carefully before the installation. Things such as the right size, efficiency ratings that are best for your home and personal needs, or the need for new ductwork will all affect the right choice for your home. An Edmonton furnace company like Acclaimed! takes the time to assess your home and your needs first, before installing a new furnace. That way, you get the right match from the start, and doesn’t cost more in energy use than it has to.

Acclaimed! Also has access to the best brands in the industry like Trane, Goodman, Carrier, or Our Signature Series. This allows them to provide the best options for you as they’re not tied to one brand.

Guarantees reliability

Proper installation, the right size, and the right type will ensure that your furnace doesn’t breakdown prematurely. Furnace installation requires the right skill, experience, and knowledge to handle properly. Otherwise, breakdowns will continue to happen, and more often, as the furnace works harder than it needs to. You could end up spending more on constant repairs, and dealing with the inconvenience and discomfort of not having a working furnace.  It’s also likely the furnace will wear out long before it’s supposed to.

Reliability in a company also relates to their qualifications and licensing. A company that has won awards, supplies permits, and hires fully-trained, and certified technicians is an Edmonton furnace company you can trust with your home. With Acclaimed! Heating, Cooling and Furnace Cleaning, you can rest assured knowing that no team member is hired without both owners feeling 100% confident that they’d want them working in their own homes. Everyone on the team has passed a criminal record check, multiple interviews, and fits into the core values of the company: respect, accountability, integrity, and teamwork.

Future customer service

Once you have a reputable and trusted HVAC company, you’ll likely use them again in the future. Any maintenance checks, tune-ups, or emergency help can be handled by a company you know and now trust. Down the road, renovations or HVAC changes will also be easy to handle and get help for. A company that has been in the business for years will likely also be around for many more to come. Even when your new furnace becomes old, you have a safe and trusted source to find a new model. If you even sell and move as well, you can still have a trusted company to inspect and provide for your new home.

Ready to work with a qualified and skilled Edmonton furnace company? Then contact Acclaimed! Heating, Cooling, and Furnace Cleaning today!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Seal Your Windows

Make sure to always check your windows before the winter months. Some windows can last up to 25 years, but before the cold months come around always go around your house and check all your windows. If they do need to be repaired, caulk the cracks along the windows or call Handyman Connection for better assistance.

Apply New Interior Paint

Did you know that adding bright colors to your home can actually boost your mood? Sometimes a fresh coat of paint can make your home feel brand new. Our craftsmen can help you repaint your walls.

Renovate Your Kitchen

Get ready for winter by renovating your kitchen so it’s in the best shape for the holidays. Add a tile backsplash to the walls or replace the countertops. Handyman Connection is happy to help!

Refurbish Your Doors

It may be time to fix or replace the doors in your home. Whether it’s a bathroom door, bedroom door or your front door, Handyman Connection can help.

Install a New Thermostat

If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat it may be time to install one. They are easier to use and also more efficient! This year may be the perfect year to finally install one in your home.

View our infographic for more information and if you need assistance with any of these home improvement items, call us today our skilled craftsmen are happy to assist with any of your needs.

The post 5 Home Improvements Before Winter appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Get ready for the winter months with these five home improvements that will protect your home from the cold.

The post 5 Home Improvements Before Winter [Infographic] appeared first on Handyman Connection.

If you own a rural property, your choice of fence will affect the safety and security of your livestock or produce, as well as the beauty of your property.

Dotted around the Calgary region, we see several different types of farm fence that appear again and again.

However, there are more than ten styles available and your choice depends on many factors.

You may need more than one type – for instance, a perimeter fence to keep the cattle in and a garden fence to keep them away from your plants,

So, what exactly are your choices? And what factors do you need to consider before selecting the right type of fence to install?  

Key considerations before choosing your farm fence

Your farm fence will likely do more than simply mark the boundaries of your property.

It will serve many purposes, so let’s first look at the factors that almost every farm owner will need to consider before even starting to look at fencing materials and styles.

Your budget

Farms often cover large areas. That means the investment in your fence could be significant and it’s important to get your choice right. With such large-scale fencing projects, consider the budget you are prepared to allocate.

The type of farm you have

A basic consideration with a farm fence is what type of farm you have: is it mainly for livestock or fresh produce? Different types of farms need to protect against different types of threats and your fence can help or hinder this.

Strength and durability requirements

With such a significant investment, you want your fence to last. A key consideration is the amount of wear and tear it will be subjected to – livestock and horses may be tough on farm fences. If you have a problem with wild game intrusions, you may need extra strength in your fence.

Style preferences

You may have your heart set on a particular style of farm fence – or be open to the many choices available. If the appearance of your fence is as important as its functionality, this needs to be taken into account when considering your choices.

Privacy and security requirements

How important are security and privacy? In many rural properties, privacy is rarely a major issue like it is in city properties but nobody wants a fence that makes their farm look like it’s lacking security.

Each of these considerations – plus the impact of the harsh elements in this part of the world (cold, sun, wind, rain, hail, snow, ice) – will influence your decision of farm fence.

Now, let’s take a look at the main fence options available for protecting your farm.

The main types of farm fence in Calgary

The following types of fences are broken down by fence material, as this is the single biggest factor that affects the style, durability, and cost of your farm fence.

Wooden fences

Wood provides many great options for farm fences:

• Post & plank fence – a traditional farm fence consisting of three horizontal wood planks running the length of the fence with vertical wooden posts for added stability. Ideal as a horse or cattle fence.
• Post & rail fence – provides a classic “prairie” look with three horizontal rails (wood or galvanized steel) running the length of the fence and posts added for stability. Another great choice for livestock fencing.
• Top rail fence – another rustic fence providing an open view of the landscape, with one horizontal wooden top rail with vertical wooden posts added for stability. Wires may be added in between the posts.
• Split cedar fence – provides an “Old West” appeal, is environmentally friendly, and also virtually maintenance-free. However, it comes at a higher outlay than other types of wooden cattle fences.

Barbed-wire fences

Galvanized barbed wire is commonly used on Calgary farms, especially as a cost-effective and practical option for cattle pastures and enclosures. They are generally cheaper than post and rail fences but do not provide the traditional style.

High-tensile wire fences

This is smooth wire pulled at very high tension and supported by heavy posts. It can be used for either temporary or permanent farm fencing and its strength means that it is suitable for livestock. If the electrification option is added, it is especially effective.

Page wire fences

Page wire is galvanized wire knotted or welded into rectangles, creating a continuous mesh. This is connected to wooden or steel posts. These fences provide excellent strength for livestock like horses, cows, dogs, goats, pigs, and sheep.

Chain-link fences

A chain-link fence provides an affordable and secure way to protect certain areas of your property (e.g. a garden or a dog kennel) or to delineate the entire property and prevent wild game or intruders from entering.

Vinyl fences

Vinyl fences can do all the things that wood can do but with less maintenance (no painting, insect-protection or staining required). They are ideal for large properties with livestock or horses or even to protect smaller areas like gardens, but they do generally come at a higher cost than wood.

Remember, there is a fence type suited to every purpose on your farm. Do your homework first and it will help you choose the right fence to provide the necessary protection for all areas of your property. 

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Finding out there is asbestos in your home is a nightmare situation for any homeowner. Trying to do a DIY removal not only risks worsening the situation but also endangers your health. If breathed in, asbestos can lead to severe internal damage, so professional help is always best.

Progressive Environmental Inc. in Vancouver is a professional asbestos and mould testing and removal company. They share more about asbestos and why hiring their professionals is the safest call to make:

Difference from mould

Unlike mould, which is a living thing, asbestos was a product used in construction during the late 1800s. It has been banned since the 1979s, but homes built up until that point may still contain some asbestos. Asbestos was used to strengthen cement, for plastics, insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and even paints. If disturbed, asbestos breaks down and releases dust particles in the air. Short-term exposure, if inhaled, may only have a low health risk. However, long-term risks can cause lung tissue scarring and, in severe cases, will lead to lung cancer.

Mould, in comparison, is naturally found in the environment and can grow indoors given the right setting. There are also twelve different types of mould, each varying in colour, shape, and degree of health risk. It is also generally easier to spot than asbestos as it grows on surfaces. Reactions from exposure to mould range from allergic reactions, infections, or rashes. Severe cases, such as long-term exposure, can be more dangerous.

Asbestos removal is risky

Without the right experience and care, asbestos removal can be a risky process. If any of it is knocked loose, the dust particles released can be easily inhaled. Old asbestos as well will naturally deteriorate and risk being released during a renovation. Even DIY asbestos kits aren’t always entirely reliable when identifying the presence of asbestos. Without proper experience, the results can be misread, and the equipment itself isn’t always professional quality. Even conducting the test itself incorrectly risks disturbing the asbestos and releasing it into the air.

The problem may be more involved

If you find signs of asbestos under your floor tiles and DIY remove it, there’s no guarantee that’s all there is. As a widespread construction material, other areas in your home likely contain asbestos. DIY searches for more asbestos, such as tearing down walls or removing more flooring, risks disturbing the asbestos. Because asbestos does not grow like mould, it requires professional experience to know where to look and safely test. The removal process itself may also be more involved, depending on the amount of asbestos present in the home.

Leave it to the pros 

Removing asbestos should always be left to a professional. Beyond just knowing where to look for asbestos, they have the right tools and equipment for the job. While store-bought asbestos testing kits are available, they are generally not recommended. Even if you think your home has asbestos in it, it’s safer to call in a professional for an inspection. A professional will know where to look for asbestos, how to safely check it, and if any is found, how to safely move it from your home.

Asbestos Removal in Vancouver

Your health and safety are the main priorities of the professionals at Progressive Environmental Inc. They work quickly, efficiently, but most importantly, safely, to help protect your home. Whether you need asbestos or mould testing and, or removal, they are the right company to call. 

Contact Progressive Environmental Inc now!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Before you start budgeting for new windows, first consider whether the damage is repairable instead. Foggy windows, cracked glass, or leaks doesn’t necessarily mean that a full replacement is in order. Knowing the difference can save you money or offer a solution to make your home more energy-efficient.

Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. in Calgary provides high-quality windows and installation services. They share what type of window problems can be repaired or when a replacement is best:

Cracked glass: repair

Cracked and especially broken glass should be repaired immediately and not ignored. Aside from the visual problems it creates, it’s also a matter of safety. It is important as well to recognize the types of cracks in the glass and what caused them. Stress cracks, for example, start at the edge of the window and then spread out. That may be caused by slamming the window or from extreme temperature fluctuations. Pressure cracks, though less common, are also caused by extreme weather or from elevation issues. If the glass can’t withstand the elevation, the pressure buildup will cause it to crack. Replacing the windows with thicker glass and ones that suit the climate will help prevent future cracks.

Broken sashes: repair

Sashes can become damaged for several reasons but are generally easy to fix. Sometimes painting the window frame can cause the sash and frame to bind together. In this case, clearing away the dried paint should fix the problem. Otherwise, the sash may have jumped the track, or in spring sashes, the problem may be a worn-out spring. These are all easy to fix problems that do not include the costly replacement of the entire window. If you have older windows and sashes that constantly break down, however, then it may be more beneficial to consider a replacement.

Foggy windows: replace

In double- or triple-paned windows, fog buildup results from moisture that has gotten between the panels of glass. If the condensation is on the inside of the window––simply run your finger on the glass to check––then the humidity is from indoor air. Otherwise, if the issue is limited to one window and the fog doesn’t clear, it’s the window. The seal on the glass panes is likely broken or damaged, and the insulation gas is escaping. In this case, replacing the window is the best option.

Increasing bills: replace

If you’ve noticed that your monthly bills are steadily rising and there’s a constant draft coming from the window, it may be time to consider new windows. Old windows often become drafty as their insulation and durability begin to wear out. While caulking the window can help lessen drafts, it won’t completely fix the problem. Instead, investing in newer and more energy-efficient windows will save you much more in the long run. Your home will stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It also protects your HVAC system from working so hard, which will help prolong its lifespan.

Windows in Calgary

If you need window repair or energy-efficient replacements, then Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. is the company to call. Their professionals provide quality customer care, work, and support for any project. Everything from window repair and replacements, upgrades, or consultations are what Reliable Glass & Windows proudly provides.

Contact Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. today!

Click to Find >>>> Windows in Calgary.

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Depending on the type of renovation you have planned, there is likely some demolition work involved. That may mean tearing out old tubs and sinks, or bigger work like tearing down a wall. Either way, knowing when it’s safe to DIY and when a professional is needed will keep you and your home safe.

Wynter Renovations in Calgary provides full-service general contractor work for residential and commercial jobs. They share what demolition projects you can DIY and when to hire their general contractors to help:

DIY: small demolition

Small or light work can be easily DIYed to save on the labour costs of hiring a professional to handle it. These projects include taking down cabinets that you don’t plan to reuse, tearing out tiles or pulling up old flooring. It can also include moving out old appliances, and, as long as the water is off, taking out small fixtures like sinks. The same goes for tearing out trim detailing, like baseboards.

DIY: small deck removal

If you have a small backyard deck or patio, and the design or use just isn’t working anymore, tear it out. Low to the ground decks are safe to dismantle and maneuver during the process. If you’re careful as well, the wood from the deck can be resold or reused. Start with the railings and stairs before moving on the boards and rest of the deck. Once the old deck is out, hire a contractor to design and build a newer, better deck to boost your home’s value.

Pro: structural changes

Any work involving structural changes, like moving or tearing down walls, should always be left to a professional. If you can’t safely identify the parts of a wall or know where a load-bearing wall is, don’t attempt to DIY. Aside from the mess, there are a few safety hazards of inexperienced demolition. Hidden electrical wires or even pipes can easily be damaged when tearing down the wall. The cleanup afterwards as well is an involved process that takes time and care to clean everything properly. Leaving it to a general contractor guarantees both the safety and timely turn-around of the work.

Pro: opening walls

If you have plans that involve opening up a wall, whether to install new wiring or plumbing, call in a pro first. The main reason is there’s no guarantee of what you may find behind a sealed wall. Mould is a common problem, but older homes, in particular, have a higher risk of having asbestos involved. If any is found, all work must stop, and the asbestos cleared by a professional. Before you make any holes in your walls, hire a general contractor to help. If you suspect mould or live in an older home, have your home inspected for mould or asbestos before any renovations begin.

General Contractors in Calgary

Whatever service, help, installation, or repair you need, Wynter Renovations is ready to help. Their team of professional general contractors guarantee that every project is handled with quality care and detail. Everything from basement renovations, new builds, kitchens, renovations or remodels, Wynter Renovations is ready to help.

Contact Wynter Renovations today!

Click to Find >>>> General Contractors in Calgary.

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Basements are well-known to provide a good return on investment, making them one of the best areas to renovate. Still, basements also have a lot of work involved that can affect the final quality. That’s why it’s important to know when it’s safe to DIY and when you need a professional.

Just Right Renovations Ltd. in Winnipeg is a professional general contractor and renovations company. They share what parts of a basement reno you can DIY and what should be left to their pros:

DIY: Flooring with prep

Most floors that are safe to use in a basement, those that are moisture-resistant, also happen to be easier to DIY for a handy person. For example, ceramic tile, rubber, and luxury vinyl plank and tile are all excellent floor options that can be installed by an experienced DIYer. The main thing to be aware of is to make sure that you install a waterproof barrier beneath the floor. That’ll help protect against mould or moisture beneath the floors, especially for tile. If you’re at all unsure, or don’t have the time to commit to a large project like this, stick to hiring the professionals.

Pro: framing and drywall

DIY drywall is not recommended. The same goes for framing, especially in an unfinished basement. Framing provides the support and protection basements need but also affects how well the room looks overall at the end. Proper tools, the right skill, and experience are all crucial for safe framing. Drywalling is easy in theory but similarly has just as much room for error. Mistakes are very noticeable and can compromise the integrity of your finished walls.

With a professional, not only will the work go faster, but safety and quality is a guarantee. They’ll have the right tools and skills to safely frame the basement and then tackle any drywalling from there. Investing in a professional is an investment both into the safety of the project and the value of a basement reno. Plus, you won’t see any seams or screw marks on a professionally finished drywalled wall.

DIY: Painting

If you have the time and motivation, painting can be handled as a DIY project and can save money. Make sure to use a waterproof primer and not a standard primer for added protection against moisture. Basements also typically use a flat finish for a smooth and elegant appearance. Since basements tend to be darker, stick with brighter colours and shades to help brighten the area. White is classic, but warm browns, tans, and even greys or blues are great colour choices. While painting the basement is possible DIY, consider hiring a professional if you’re unsure of your abilities or want to save the time and hassle.

Pro: plumbing and electrical

Any working involving plumbing and electrical will need a permit and the right level of skill. Installing a basement bathroom, for example, is a complicated and involved project. Proper ventilation is crucial for letting moisture out, while plumbing must be carefully installed for drainage. Basement wiring as well, whether for lighting or a home theatre, needs to be handled with care to prevent any circuit overloads. In both cases, hiring a professional is the safest choice. Not only do they have the right experience, but they’ll also guarantee the safety and quality of the work. It’ll also ensure that any plumbing and electrical work is up to code and won’t risk safety or cause insurance issues down the road.

Basement Renovations in Winnipeg

Quality renovations and peace of mind are what Just Right Renovations Ltd. proudly provides every time. Their professionals can help with any work, whether a major renovation or just a quick repair. No matter what you need, your home is in the right hands with Just Right Renovations.

Contact Just Right Renovations Ltd. now!

Click to Find >>>> General Contractors in Winnipeg.

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

How is the landscaping around your commercial building or business? Without the right care, nature can quickly take over once again and reflect poorly on external appearance. However, with a professional landscape design and then continued upkeep, your business will benefit year-round.

Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. in Calgary is a professional commercial and residential landscaping company. They share how their professional landscapers can boost your business with year-round care:

The first impression lasts all year

A great first impression is important to attracting new customers and clients and even keeping current ones. You only ever get one chance at a first impression. A well-manicured lawn and plants in the spring and summer is one thing, but what about fall and winter? You want that same quality of care and attention to detail to continue, even as the seasons change. Fall maintenance will ensure plants continue to look maintained, and any debris is cleared away for a pristine look. Winter snow and ice removal are key to keeping customers safe and maintaining your building’s positive appearance. It’s also important to have your parking lot sanded to improve traction in the winter, and swept clean again in the spring.

Boosts value

It’s no secret that a well-maintained landscape can boost overall curb appeal and attract positive attention. Residential landscaping and maintenance often maximize this, so why not apply the same to commercial buildings? Investing in proper care is investing in the property’s value so that over the years, it continues to increase. It’s also an investment into greener measures by ensuring healthy tree growth, planting bee attracting flowers, or using sustainable watering methods. If you’re thinking about a landscaping project around your commercial space, ask your contractor about green enhancements.

Ensures healthy regrowth

Properly pruning trees and plants in the fall or fertilizing and aerating grass in the summer ensures healthy regrowth come spring. So does proper lawn care in the growing seasons. Without the right care, that investment into an attractive landscape will be lost every spring. With a professional landscape team, your landscape is guaranteed to regrow just as lush and healthy as before. Not only is that visually beneficial, but it will then also protect your landscape investment. Instead of spending more each year to replace dead plants, you continue to save by maintaining or improving what is already there.

Landscape design helps productivity

Not only is commercial landscaping good for appearances, but it can also help with internal productivity. Attractive designs with space for seating or points of interest, like fountains or rock displays, create a welcoming environment. Employees will feel more relaxed and positive, which will boost work productivity – especially if it’s right outside the window or in a common courtyard. A happier and healthier internal workforce and outside appearance will provide double the benefits for your business.

Landscapers in Calgary

Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. has been in the business for over 20 years providing quality landscaping services and care. They provide the best services for landscape care, design, maintenance, and more. They can help with commercial landscapes that’ll improve your business and commercial building. If you want landscaping and property maintenance for your home, they can also provide just as quality residential care for a yard you can enjoy for years to come.

Don’t hesitate to contact Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. today!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

Exterior and landscape lighting can highlight certain features, add beauty, or just add some functionality to your yard. There are plenty of ways to shine some light on your landscape design, so work with an electrician for the perfect lighting.

Platinum Electrical Services in Calgary is a professional full-service electrical company. They share why their electricians are the best choice to help with landscape lighting:

Placement security and safety

The right exterior lighting placement can enhance your home’s security and safety. Sidewalks or walkways are often decorated with nearby flowers or shrubs, so lighting there is ideal. Not only will it highlight the landscape, but it’ll also make navigating the pathway easier. Task lighting, such as on a fountain or near the front entrance, helps eliminate shadows and blind spots. Trespassers are less likely to wander onto a property that is well lit. It also helps create a more feature focus on certain areas. Motion detector lights are also useful if you only need lighting at specific times, such as going from the car to the house. It’s also useful to save money and deter unwanted visitors.

Use light techniques

Professional electricians will know all about different lighting techniques, beyond just spotlights. For example, down-lighting creates a circle of light on the ground that can be used to shine on focal points. Up-lighting is the opposite and uses ground lighting to shine up onto an object. That is especially useful to highlight canopies or highlight the shape and structure of a larger tree. By working with an electrician, they’ll be able to use their expertise to help you choose the right lighting technique. To plan ahead, take a walk through your yard during the day and decide what areas you want to be highlighted. Then, discuss the layout with your electrician and leave the light techniques to them.

Proper installation

Taking care to install your outdoor lighting properly is important not only so it works but also so you don’t overload your circuit. Outdoor lighting will likely need wiring as well, which should be buried to avoid any tripping hazards. Likewise, optimizing where to bury wires and how deep area easy matters for an electrician. Not only that, but an electrician can help make sure your electrical bill doesn’t skyrocket. Consider both low-voltage lights, which run on 12 volts, and LED bulbs, which don’t use excess energy or create too much heat. Both are energy-saving options and still produce just as much light and appeal for your yard. With these, you’ll still get the beauty of outdoor lights but without the cost. If your circuit needs more power or an upgrade first, your electrician will know and handle the work.

Electricians in Calgary

Fast and reliable service with quality guaranteed is what Platinum Electrical Services provides every time. As a full-service electrical company, they can help with everything from new home wiring, installations, and interior or exterior work. With their skill and experienced professionals, your home will be completely safe, secure, and efficient in no time.

Contact Platinum Electrical Services today!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com