Month: October 2020

If you’ve been considering replacing your roof, time may be running out. Canada is known for its long and unpredictable winters, and snow might be on the way sooner than you think. Replacing a roof in winter is not impossible but comes with many challenges, so it may be worth considering its replacement sooner rather than later. From the roofers at Marchuk Roofing in Calgary, here’s why you should replace your roof before the winter season.

Heat helps

Depending on the roofing material you choose to install, it may need time to properly adhere to your roof. The primary way this is done is through the sun heating up the roof to dry the adhesive product. If this is done in the winter, it will risk damaging the new roof because there’s less heat present, allowing roofing to potentially fall or shift. In the summer or even autumn, there’s a good amount of heat to dry the adhesive.

Water damage

If your roof has issues with water damage, the winter cold could be detrimental to your home. Water can easily get into cracks in the walls and freeze, worsening any damage to your walls and home foundation. It can also cause mould problems if left too long and that can be dangerous for your family if they were to breathe it in. To prevent water damage from worsening due to snow, get ahead of the winter storm.

Longer project time

While it’s not impossible to replace a roof during the winter, it will definitely take longer. The roofers will consistently have to clear snow, and extreme weather conditions can make it difficult for roofers to work. They’ll have to stop to warm up, and the materials can break in colder temperatures, which makes getting the job done challenging. While it is possible to get a discount in the winter, it’s still time-consuming and that means installation will be more expensive. Getting the roof done with clearer, nicer weather allows for a faster job so you won’t be listening to people walking on your roof for a longer period.

Save money on bills

Preparing for winter with a new roof will affect your heating and energy bills. With any damages fixed and additional insulation installed, then you won’t have to worry about heat escaping the home. Not only will you keep your family warm, but you’ll save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Roofers in Calgary

Marchuk Roofing guarantees you’ll always get the highest quality roofing service no matter the time of year. They offer a wide range of quality products and styles along with their reputable customer service. Their expert installers know the tricks of the trade to work with the weather and make your roof last for many years to come.

Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Marchuk Roofing today!

Click to Find >>>> Roofers in Calgary

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

Professional Tips on How to Remove and Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash

It’s finally time to update your kitchen. The updates have been planned, the colors have been picked, and your next project is the kitchen tile backsplash. Before you begin, here are some pointers on how to remove and install kitchen tile backsplash in your home.

Before you begin, ready the area you are working in. Taking your time, working carefully, and having a clean workspace is key to making sure you do not damage the drywall underneath the backsplash and that your work is completed with quality results. Make sure the surrounding kitchen counter is clear and empty, all outlet covers are removed, and the electricity is turned off when you are working on the kitchen tile backsplash.

You will need a hammer, electric or hand sander, putty knife, utility knife, a drywall sanding pad, drywall joint compound, and at least 120 grit sandpaper. Use your hammer and putty knife to remove the tiles but work carefully to not mark or damage the drywall underneath. Next, scrape the adhesive off the wall with a putty knife if it is hard or use the sandpaper if it is soft. If you scrape the drywall on accident, repair any scratches and gouges with the drywall joint compound. Once dry, sand. Sand the entire wall smooth when complete.

When the wall is ready for the new and improved backsplash, spread a thick layer of thinset where the backsplash will lay. This adhesive will help the tile set well, without any roughness or affects from the old adhesive and sanded wall. It is recommended to begin laying the backsplash along the edge of the countertop first to make sure it is applied flush to the counter. Then begin to work it upwards, away from the counter to place it properly.

If you are ready to begin picking out your new kitchen tile backsplash, our tips on how to remove and install kitchen tile backsplash are here for you. But more importantly, you might want to save yourself the hassle and hire professional contractors to complete the installation for you. Either way, your kitchen will be updated and sparkling new before you know it.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact our local Handyman Connection office to learn more about our tile and backsplash services. Call or text your local Handyman Connection office to learn more about our home maintenance and home repair services.  

The post How to Remove and Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Embarking on home renovations or building an infill home are significant investments. Adding beauty, function, personal enjoyment of your home, and resale value to your property are the returns. The first place you should start with any home renovation is reviewing your finances and creating a budget.

As general contractors in Edmonton, Four Elements Construction can help you create a budget for your renovation that meets your needs. Then once planning and construction are underway, you’ll benefit from having a professional project manager helping you stay on budget.

General contractors will create a detailed plan

With your budget in mind, the design team at Four Elements Construction will draft a detailed plan for the renovation. Having a plan in place will identify costs and help you track them throughout the renovation. Without a well-laid plan, you’ll experience more change-orders, over-spending on materials, and paying more for mistakes made along the way. Design and budget planning is essential to achieving the renovation results you want without overspending.

General contractors can offer expertise to help the renovation stay on track

Edmonton general contractors will include details on building materials and finishing materials in the contract, budget, and design plans. These will consist of parts of your renovation like tile, flooring, countertops, and so on. Four Elements Construction will keep lines of communication open and will help you choose finishings that will best suit your design tastes and your budget.

Make sure you are open about what you like and want. If you change your mind during the renovation, it will cost you more money. You might have to purchase new materials and pay for labour and installation twice. Fewer changes mean you will stay closer to your budget. Read these renovation budget tips.

General contractors can show you some cost-effective options

If your budget is tight, it doesn’t mean you can’t renovate. Four Elements Construction can show you some cost-effective alternatives that can still give you a modern, refreshed home. For example, installing vinyl plank flooring that mimics the look of real hardwood flooring could be a smart way to achieve the look you want without the more significant price tag. Or, if you like the layout of your kitchen, you can choose to reface your cabinets instead of investing in all-new custom cabinetry. Options are out there, and an experienced general contractor will be there to help you achieve the best results for your budget.

Start planning your home renovation. Contact Four Elements Construction.

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

If your needs have changed and your current home no longer meets them, it’s time for a change. Deciding whether you should invest in a significant home renovation, buy or build a new home can be challenging. Here are some things to consider when making this tough decision.

Where do you want to live?

If you love your location and can renovate your home to suit your changing needs, staying put might be the best idea for you. Consider your location, and it’s proximity to schools, work, parks, and other services. Do you have good relationships with your neighbours or are you tied into the community? These things are possible in a new location but might take time to develop.

Talk to a licensed home builder like By Design Construction. They can help you determine if a duplex can be built or perhaps if a laneway home can be built on your current lot or suggest a new neighbourhood that will meet your needs.

What is the condition of your current home?

A contractor can inspect your current home to make sure it doesn’t have any major issues. Problems with outdated framing and joists, electrical systems, and foundation issues could factor in your decision to renovate or build new. If your home doesn’t have good ‘bones’ and will require extensive work to get it into good shape before the big remodeling project even starts – you might want to consider starting from scratch and building a new home.

What is your budget?

If you have a budget worked out for your home renovation or new home build, it can help you decide the next course of action. With financing in place, you can get a cost estimate to remodel while pricing out a new home build on a new or your existing lot. It would help if you considered the costs of building and moving vs. the cost of renovating and staying.

Determine the costs of selling and moving. That includes realtor fees, storage, movers, cleaners, taxes, and sometimes having to rent a place temporarily. Moving is also time-consuming and stressful. If you’re embarking on a significant home remodel, you should consider the remodel cost plus additional costs. If the remodel is extensive, you might not be able to live in the house during construction. Do you have somewhere you can stay, or will you have to rent storage and suite elsewhere? These are all things that should be included in your budget plan.

What is the return on investment?

For some, the value of staying in a neighbourhood they love is enough return on investment. Others might want to see that value added to the price of their property. Get an appraisal of your home before and after the project. A contractor or real estate agent can help you with this. If a monetary ROI is essential to you, you should invest in renovations that recoup more of their cost at resale. These renovations include exterior improvements, kitchen, and bathroom renovations.

Whether you decide to renovate or build a new home, By Design Construction are custom home builders that can offer guidance and cost estimates. The best place to start is with a conversation.

Contact By Design Construction for a FREE onsite consultation today.

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

If a person’s home is their castle, then their bathroom is the throne room.

As much as we may not want to admit it, we spend a ton of time in the bathroom. We bathe. We get ready for going out and coming home. We sit…and think. Our bathrooms are a huge part of our lives when we are at home.

Why not spruce the place up and make the master bathroom your perfect retreat; a place where you can relax and recharge?

Here are a few master bathroom remodel ideas to lure you back into the loo.

Top 3 Master Bathroom Remodel Ideas

A master bathroom remodel doesn’t have to break the bank.

There are a number of budget bathroom renovations that can be done without committing to a huge construction overhaul.

Check out these ideas from top bathroom contractors in Regina that can make your bathroom great again.

1. Wall and Floor Decor

One of the quickest ways to give a bathroom a new, fresh look is to update the walls and the floors.

Updating the walls sounds like a mess and a headache, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply adding a new coat of paint, or even adding some texture can be an easy way to start a budget bathroom remodel.

Add some shiplap to your walls for a rustic look, or add some white beadboard to create a beach vibe. A change to the walls can create a totally new bathroom look and feel.

As for the floors, and even the walls, adding tile is always a strong bathroom option because of its ability to withstand moisture and condensation. Plus, a quality bathroom tile design can instantly transform the space.

A quick design tip—don’t feel obligated to stick with the same tile throughout the entire bathroom.

2. Vanity Overhaul

An old, outdated vanity can create a drab feeling in a bathroom.

A sledgehammer and some safety goggles can help remedy this situation though. Older vanities should usually be fully removed. Years of moisture has probably seeped into the wood and added an unwelcome mildew smell.

If the vanity is relatively new, maybe just consider adding quartz countertops in Edmonton with some new sink fixtures. For budget bathroom renovations, shop for remnant pieces of caesarstone edmonton .

3. The Tub, Toilet, and Shower Facelift

Out with the old and in with the new.

Simply replacing the toilet and refacing the bathtub and/or shower is an instant change in the bathroom.

Have an older home with pastel toilets and tubs? Swap out the pastel toilet for a simple white and then consider a tub liner or a tub refinish.

To the Studs We Go… Or No?!

You’re in the bathroom a few times a day, every day. Why not take some time to sit and plan the perfect design.

There are hundreds of master bathroom remodel ideas to inspire any and every look. A great bathroom design doesn’t mean you need to demo the bathroom all the way down to the studs. Regina bathroom contractors can help you avoid this mess.

Ready to make your master bathroom become a reality? We can help you create the perfect plan for your luxurious bathroom retreat.

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

TV Mounting Tips

After all that time spent researching, shopping, and hoping, you and your family have bought the TV of your dreams. The screen is as big as you want it to be and the image quality is spectacular. But, before you start setting it up, are you really sure you want to put the TV up on your own? If not, here are our top recommendations and advice of how to choose to hire professionals for TV mounting vs completing the task yourself.

TV mounting on your own can be a hassle. Trying to figure out the hardware, lifting and steadying the TV when it is being mounted, and getting it just right has its challenges. Buying a new TV is already a big investment, but if you want more than your TV hung up with the wires exposed, you might want to consider hiring a professional. The TV’s wires are an important point. If you would like them hidden, you will have to invest in flat-wire technology, or consider running them into the wall. Attempting to put the wires in the wall can cause costly damages if you attempt this without the proper expertise.

To begin, how would you like the TV mounting to go? Would you like assistance in a basic mount; or, would you like a service that goes the extra mile to not only mount your TV on the wall, but to hide the wires as well? If you would like the wires to be hidden, look for a professional contractor who can handle the electrical and carpentry. You will want to look for a contractor who is licensed and certified as well. Take a look at their website, social media, or LinkedIn to read some reviews. Second, call the company to request references from previous customers.

Remember that a job of any size can have an estimate done! Schedule an estimate with the craftsmen you might hire, contact our team here, to discuss price and what you would like to be done. You will want a professional who will make your experience hassle-free and who communicates puts your needs first.

Once you know how you would like your TV mounting to go, you’ll be ready to call Handyman Connection. Our highly trained and professional craftsmen are experts in mounting TVs and other home repair and home maintenance services. Hiring a professional can save you from the hassle and additional expenses of incorrectly mounting a TV.

Contact Handyman Connection

Call or text your local Handyman Connection office for your next project and quote today. 

The post TV Mounting Tips: Should I Mount a TV Myself or Do I Call the Professionals? appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Cables are one of those things that you will only think about when something stops working and you want to unplug it, but instead, you’re faced with dozens of tangled cables, not knowing which one to unplug – a stress inducing activity that nobody wants to experience.

Tangled cables really are the devil’s work. What’s worse than a massive ball of cables with no end? Trying to detangle them probably. And who’s going to do that? You are, and you will succeed in doing so. It might be a difficult task, it might take some time and it might make your blood boil, perhaps you’ll shed some tears and you will definitely break a sweat, but you will succeed. Now that our not-so pep talk is done, let’s organise some loose cables.

So, you have a beautiful new home office that you’ve been enjoying oh-so-much. Everything is neat, clean and fresh. However, one look under your desk and there is a pile of messy cables and cords ready to make your life a living hell. Stop thinking ‘out of sight, out of mind’ because it’s time to tackle these cables properly organise them.

Detangle time.

Make sure to safely turn off any electrics, such as your printer and computer, before unplugging them from the socket. Once everything has been safely turned off, it’s time to unplug and detangle. Take a deep breath and slowly separate the wires and cables. If you start to get frustrated, take a step back, have a cuppa and then continue.

Label your cables.

While you are separating your cables, it will be wise to label them. This will guarantee you know which cable goes where and which cable is which – computer, monitor, lamp, printer, charger, landline, etc. Masking tape is a cheap and easy way to label your cables.

Tie them together. 

To neatly organise your cables, loosely wrap them and tie them together. You can easily tie them together with Velcro tape, masking tape or any other fastener that you might have laying around the house. We wouldn’t recommend using gaffer tape as it might leave a sticky residue.

Get rid of some. 

Do you really need the cable for that old recorder that you don’t even own anymore? Do you really need 10 different USB cables? Make your life easier by donating, recycling or throwing away unwanted or unnecessary cables.

If you’ve searched for how to organise cables for storage or how to organize electronic cords, we hope that this article has helped! If, after reading our article, you don’t feel like organising your collection of untamed wires and cables, get the Squad to do it for you. We’ve helped plenty of Londoners tidying loose cables in their homes and offices. Simply give us a call today on 0800-0-12-12-12 or request a quote by filling our online booking form.

The post How to organise loose cables appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Major renovations are a big investment that takes lots of work and time. They can quickly become a stressful situation, which is why taking a few extra steps will help avoid that risk. Companies such as LD&A in Calgary specialize in professional, design-build services for renovations. They share what steps you can take with them to tackle any major renovations:

Hire a qualified company 

Step one, don’t handle the work alone! Major renovations require the right range of skills, professionals, and management to cover all the work. Don’t feel the need to tackle all of that on your own, especially when there is help available. Companies such as LD&A, for example, work with you from the early planning stages through the renovations and the finished project. They help turn ideas and visions into concrete plans and designs. They also handle any trade workers or finding the right materials, helping to reduce stress throughout the project.

Plan your budget and backup budget

Having a well-planned budget range in place right away is crucial to ensure you don’t go overboard in any area. It will also help keep your renovation plans and goals on track and prevent making new and unplanned purchases during the work. Also include a backup budget, which should cover any unforeseen incidents. This includes everything from alternative materials, unexpected problems such as mould behind walls, or a design change that affects costs. It’ll also create a helpful guideline of things you can cut if need be and install later. Things like a backsplash or coloured faucets can wait, but not proper plumbing or a solid foundation.

Work with a design-build team 

Design-build is a big advantage when doing any major renovation. A company that offers this means that you have one point of contact to work with for any designs, plans, or construction. It takes a lot of the pressure away from staying in contact with multiple people and trade workers. LD&A, for example, have a design phase as part of the work. Not only do they help with designing layouts and space, but they also start with the end result. How do you want your finished renovation to look? Getting caught up in all the logistics and work is easy to do, and often is what creates so much stress for homeowners. Knowing what your end goals and designs look like, however, helps create a clearer vision.

Ask questions and have fun

Don’t hold back any concerns or questions that you may have about the project. You want to love the finished renovation, but that can only happen if you are clear about your wants and needs. Not sure if there is enough space for an open concept layout or what paint colour would look best? Ask away! The company and team you are working with have years of expertise and ideas to help. They may notice things you don’t or have new suggestions to offer. You’ll never know, though, unless open communication is always present. Major renovations are exciting projects and should be fun. Allow yourself to enjoy the process and be excited about the results to come!

Major Renovations in Calgary

At LD&A, your vision for your home and happiness at the end of the day is their goal. They offer decades of award-winning renovation experience and a guarantee that every project is a smooth transition. With their design-build process, ready laughs, and qualified professionals, every project will be a smooth and value-ensured process.

Contact LD&A now!

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

The kitchen and bathrooms are the most commonly renovated rooms in the house. Both types of renovations can improve property value when done properly. Also, by remodeling the kitchen and the bathroom, you’ll improve functionality and your personal enjoyment of each room.

Magnum Construction Services in New Westminster shares more:

The value of a kitchen renovation

Renovation by Magnum Construction Services

A kitchen renovation has a great return on investment. The return is determined by how much of the renovation cost will be added to your home’s overall property value. According to this cost vs. value report, a minor kitchen renovation can recover nearly 78% of its cost at resale. So, if you spent $23,500 on a kitchen remodel, you can add $18,000 or more to your property value.

How you can improve the function of your kitchen

More than adding value to your home, a new kitchen can improve your daily home life. Not only will aesthetics improve, but the way you use your kitchen can also improve too. Custom cabinets with built-in features can make storing and accessing dishes, pots, and pans, and small appliances easy and convenient. Granite or quartz countertops will create a durable workspace, both being resistant to heat and scratching while creating a focal point in the room.

For major remodels, changing the layout of the kitchen can improve function. You can create a good workflow between the stove, fridge, and sink with the “work triangle” design. This will allow you to move easily between each workspace as you prepare meals and cook. A new kitchen island will provide additional storage, more counter space, and even a space for dining.

The value of a bathroom renovation

Renovation by Magnum Construction Services

A bathroom renovation also has a good return on investment. For a mid-range bathroom remodel, expect to recoup up to 64% of its cost in added property value. Depending on what you choose to change in the bathroom, you can increase that ROI by choosing cost-effective upgrades. This is where a professional bathroom renovation like Magnum Construction can help.

How you can improve the function of your bathroom

Bathrooms are a major culprit for wasted water in the home. To improve the function of your bathroom and improve efficiency, install low flow fixtures and faucets. A low flow toilet will use a fraction of the water compared to a conventional toilet. Aerated shower heads and taps also save water, and with innovative technology, you won’t have to sacrifice water pressure either.

Bathroom storage can be an issue, especially in smaller spaces. In your bathroom renovation, plan for additional storage with floating shelves, a corner shelving unit, or adding a new vanity cabinet with more drawers and cabinet space.

Bathroom Renovations and Kitchen Renovations in New Westminster

Magnum Construction Services is a professional renovation company that focuses on kitchen and bathroom renovations. They serve New Westminster and surrounding areas and are proud to be on of the Top 5 Finalists for the 2020 BC Small Business Award. They’re committed to quality workmanship, customer service, and clear, open communication throughout your project. If you are embarking on a kitchen or bathroom renovation, start by contacting Magnum Construction.

Contact them today!

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

With so many different types and styles of flooring, it can be a bit of a challenge to narrow down your favourites. So, why choose one when you can benefit from a blend? Transitional floor styles are not only beautiful; they add a truly unique design to your home.

Quality Red Tag Floors in Edmonton specialize in providing high-quality flooring. They share some tips when it comes to transitioning between rooms with different types of flooring:

The rule of three does not apply

In many home design elements, using the rule of three is a popular and safe way to design. Lighting, colours, or textures, for example, should all follow this rule. Flooring, though, should not be done in threes. More than two types of flooring create too much chaos, which takes away from that creative design flow. That is especially the case when working with an open floor plan, where design is key. Likewise, even working within the same materials, such as hardwood, still stick to the rule of two. An example of this might be hard floors for the great room, and carpet for the bedrooms or family room.

Pair floor function to the room

As you’re thinking about the best tile to match with your hardwood, make sure it will suit the room. A floor that isn’t moisture resistant in a kitchen, for example, isn’t a great choice since the risk of water damage and spills are higher. Before you choose what material to transition with, first pick what rooms you have in mind. Kitchens and dining rooms will pair well, or a master bedroom with the master bathroom. Once you know the rooms, start to match materials to suit those areas. Also, think of what pairings will look attractive together.

Choose complementary colours

There’s no limit when it comes to blending textures with your floors, but there is when it comes to colours. Instead of creating an attractive design, contrasting floor colours creates a jarring sight. When you choose different colours, find tones that will either match or complement the other. Tile and hardwood, for example, can pair together with shades of earthy browns. For something more striking, a lighter colour will also work with its darker counterpart. A cream carpet, for example, will look stunning against a dark, hardwood floor. Take a look at some online pictures, to get more ideas for beautiful traditional flooring designs.

Don’t forget the colour scheme of the room as well. Your transitional floor will make a great feature, but don’t make it too different from the overall design of the room. If you have pastel walls, dark coloured floors will pair nicely. On the other hand, for darker walls, either choose a light floor or a colour that will match.

Flooring Companies in Edmonton

In everything they do, Quality Red Tag Floors believes in dedicating themselves to quality service and satisfaction. With many years of expertise, they can help you find the right flooring for your home. They offer everything from tile, hardwood, vinyl, laminate, carpet, and more. So, any floor you need or want, Quality Red Tag Floors is readily available to help and provide.

Contact them today and install a new quality floor in your home!

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