Month: January 2021

We are so used to living a life of ease with light bulbs that we often take them for granted. It is easy to overlook light bulbs unless they need to be replaced. Usually, we grab whatever light bulb we have and consider the job well done. An ill-fitting light bulb is not only a safety concern, but it can also use more energy.

Pax Electrical Installation in Edmonton shares more:

Fixtures wattage limit

You can find wattage ratings on the sockets of the light fixtures—for example, maximum 60W. If the fixture requires two or more light bulbs, the maximum wattage has to equal the total of the light bulbs’ wattage.

Using a bulb with a higher wattage than the fixture’s limit can result in intense heat. Electrical fixtures all come with a recommended wattage rating. By not following the rating, you are potentially putting your home at risk. Overheating can melt sockets and wire insulation, which could then lead to house fires. It’s best to use light bulbs with a lower light wattage to avoid permanent damage. Learn more about how to match light bulb wattage to light fixtures.

Enclosed and non-enclosed fixtures

Everyday lighting, or non-enclosed fixtures, allows the light source to breathe. In a non-enclosed fixture, the heat produced from the light has the chance to distribute evenly. In comparison, enclosed fixtures refer to fixtures with a tight seal around them. The fixture doesn’t have ventilation. These fixtures require specific bulbs. Otherwise, the heat produced has nowhere to go but up back to the circuit underneath. The lack of ventilation can cause overheating in the long term. Always check what type of bulb to use.

How to pick the right light bulb

Picking the right bulb goes beyond just the correct wattage rating. You have more than one option when choosing your light bulbs, and most are around efficiency. Although traditional incandescent bulbs are cheaper, they use more energy and produce more heat. In the long-term traditional bulbs will cost you more. Other popular options are halogen incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), and light-emitting diodes (LED).

Although halogen incandescents are considered energy-efficient, it is because they are mostly used with light dimmers. Dimmers use less energy overall, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be the best choice if you’d like to use more light. Similarly, CFL light bulbs are also considered to be the more energy-efficient choice compared to incandescents. LEDs are incredibly popular because not only are they energy efficient, but they also last a lot longer than the other options.

Electrician in Edmonton

Pax Electrical Installation works with its customer’s specific needs to guarantee customer satisfaction. They provide various services from electrical installation to maintenance and repair, all the while staying cost-efficient.

Contact Pax Electrical Installation today!

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

An experienced and reputable general contractor can help you with numerous renovations to your homes, no matter how big or small. With a professional at work, you know the job will be done properly the first time around.

The first step is finding a renovation company you can trust. A. A. G. Services in Vancouver has a solid reputation for quality work and good customer service. 95% of their business comes from referrals – that is built on their philosophy that customer comes first! They share some home projects a general contractor can help you with. 

Flooring Installation

Installing new flooring in your home can be a big project for a DIYer. Depending on the size of the space and the chosen materials, professional flooring installation is usually the best choice. A general contractor will not only be able to quickly and efficiently install the flooring, but they can also provide insight into your plan. For instance, if you’re reflooring something as large as an entire main floor, a general contractor can give advice on what would work best for your budget, living situation, or what potential home buyers are looking for. The contractors at A. A. G. Services specialize in installing hardwood and laminate flooring and are happy to help with any other textile. 

Painting

New paint can change the entire feeling of a space. Perhaps you’re looking to change the same old paint colours you’ve been staring at for years, or want to upgrade your home to prepare it to sell. A professional renovation company can provide potential colour schemes for your various spaces, and they have painters that can assist with the painting itself. Whether you’re looking for something simple, feature walls, or a colour palette to fit a certain style, a general contractor will have subcontracted painters on their team who can guide you in the right direction. 

Interior and Exterior Masonry 

Looking to add a unique feature to your home? Interior or exterior masonry work can give your home the character it may be missing. While being great for things like fireplaces, this stone-work isn’t limited to such. Masonry comes in many forms. It could look like exposed brick for a feature wall, a creative backsplash, an accent for your shower, or any other interior feature you wish. In addition, it’s also great for outdoor spaces. It can be used for pathways, outdoor fire pits, patios, and landscaping. A general contractor will be able to draw up a plan, help you gather the necessary materials, and execute your vision, indoors or outdoors. 

General Contractors in Vancouver

The contractors at A. A. G. Services are highly qualified and dedicated professionals. They provide fast, high-quality, and low-cost moving and construction services in Vancouver, Tri-cities, Maple Ridge, Surrey, Burnaby, and surrounding areas. Their team of highly skilled and loyal subcontractors uphold the same standards and principles and take genuine pride in their work. Plus, the owner goes above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction and customers get the quality service they deserve.

Learn why their customers keep referring them to others! Check out A. A. G. Services today!

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

Going into the new year, it’s a great time to check-in with the various systems in your home. Something to pay attention to is your home’s HVAC system. It may need repairs or maintenance in order to properly regulate your home’s temperature. From Green Tech Air Conditioning and Heating in Vancouver, here’s how an HVAC company can get your home’s HVAC system in good shape for the new year. 

Signs your HVAC system needs repairs

There are a few ways to check if your HVAC systems may need some repairs. This includes poor temperature regulation throughout your home, strange noises coming from your units, and surprisingly high energy bills. Being in the midst of winter, a properly-functioning heating system in your home can make a huge difference, and keep your family comfortable. If you notice any of these problems, it’s a good idea to contact an HVAC company for advice or assistance with repairs. 

Easy maintenance tips

Though maintaining your home’s HVAC system may feel daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Some easy HVAC maintenance tips include checking the functionality of your thermostat, checking or changing filters, or cleaning the units themselves. Air conditioning units may have debris in them, causing the unit to underperform. Similarly, furnace units in your home may be dusty or have blockages that simply need to be cleaned. Proper maintenance can also keep units from breaking in the future. Before contacting an HVAC company, check the system yourself to see if these maintenance tips can solve any problems first. 

HVAC installation

If your furnace or air conditioner is constantly breaking down, old, and no longer efficient, it might be time for a replacement. By upgrading to a high-efficiency AC or furnace, you will start seeing noticeable savings on your energy bills. New HVAC installation will improve the peace of mind and the comfort of your home too. Green Tech Air Conditioning and Heating offers professional installation services, in addition to maintenance and repairs. If you’re getting a new furnace, ask them about the rebates offered by Fortis BC for high-efficiency furnace installations.

Choose the greener way

Having a highly efficient HVAC system is important to a lot of homeowners. Green Tech Air Conditioning and Heating ensures that the materials they use are environmentally-friendly. With a wide variety of models, you’ll be able to lessen your carbon footprint while having a reliable HVAC system in your home. They also keep away from environmentally-damaging work practices, keeping their workspace clean during and after repairs, maintenance, or installing units. No matter the problem, they are there to assist you, while performing their tasks in the greenest way possible. 

HVAC Companies in Vancouver

Green Tech Air Conditioning and Heating is a locally-owned and operated HVAC installation and repair company. Located and operating in the Greater-Vancouver area, they strive for customer satisfaction, wanting homeowners to be happy they chose them. Whether it’s an HVAC installation or system repair, they believe HVAC companies need to follow a sustainable approach, and Green Tech does just that. 

For more information, check out Green Tech Air Conditioning and Heating today!

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

Whether you’re renovating your current home or a new build, the type of insulation chosen is an important consideration. Insulation serves many purposes, including temperature regulation, soundproofing, and fireproofing. However, there are many different kinds of insulation out there, and it can get confusing on which one is best for the space you’re insulating. From Metro Standard Insulation in Surrey, here are some of the different types of insulation and where they would be installed in your home. 

BATT Insulation

Batting, or BATT insulation, is a common insulating material for residential buildings. It’s easy to install, and it fits snuggly into your walls to keep air from coming in or out. BATT insulation can be installed in most rooms in your home, including living spaces, bedrooms, and basements. However, in rooms that are prone to moisture like bathrooms or laundry rooms, it may not be the best idea to use this kind of insulation. BATT insulation performs best in spaces where it can stay dry, so watch out for that if installing this insulation in your home. 

Spray-foam Insulation

Spray-foam insulation is rising in popularity, for good reason. It’s quick and easy to install. Spray-foam comes with the huge benefit of the spray being able to go in those hard-to-reach places, or strange nooks your home may have. It will insulate the spaces effectively, and keep your home protected from airflow, fires, and sound. Spray-foam insulation can go pretty much anywhere and becomes its own vapour barrier. Living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry rooms, attics, mud rooms, and another other room in your home can benefit from spray-foam. 

Loose Insulation

Loose insulation, also referred to as blown-in insulation, is most commonly used in attics or crawl spaces. It can also be blown in walls and other spaces. It fits in tight corners to insulate the entire space. Like the others, it will help with your energy bills as the temperature of your home will remain regulated, and keep your attic, crawl spaces, and other rooms warm with a well-insulated ceiling. While having fewer uses than other types, it’s long-lasting and efficient.

Insulation Contractors in Surrey

With over 12 years of industry experience, Metro Standard Insulation provides unmatched insulation services in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. They have completed projects in many sectors, including residential, commercial, multi-story and townhomes. They adapt to their customer’s needs while always maintaining quality in our work and staying above the competition.

For more information, contact Metro Standard Insulation today!

Click to Find >>>> Insulation Contractors in Surrey

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

Professional Home Energy Saving Tips for Winter

Wintertime is here and before you start turning up the thermostat, it is important to consider how you can save on or improve the energy you use in your home this season. Our craftspeople have gathered a few tips about how your home can save energy this winter. From insulation, regulating temperature, updates, and more, your home can be an efficient energy user and save you on those home energy bills every month.

Insulation

The most important part of your home energy is insulation. In both summer and winter as you use your heat or air-conditioning, insulation maintains and regulates how your home holds in and expels heat or the cold. If you have poor insulation, your home might not be holding onto the heat it is supposed to in the winter, and you spend more money trying to heat an inefficient home.

Drafts

Drafts in your home can eat a hole in your budget if they go unnoticed. Drafts in your windows and doors can let in a lot of cold air or let a lot of your heat escape from your home. Quick fixes would be shrink wrapping your windows in the winter if there are major drafts or purchasing a small weatherstrip to put on the bottom of your door. An easy way to tell if your door has a big enough opening for a draft is to open the door over a piece of paper on the ground. If the paper is left undisturbed and is not dragged by the door, you have a gap that needs to be covered.

When the winter ends, it will be important to consider investing in new windows if you have a major draft problem. Efficient windows will save money on your gas/ heating bill in the long run.

As you look into how you can improve how your home handles energy, look for local handymen to help out. Schedule multiple estimates to ask the professionals questions or to get a good idea of how much a project would cost. You will want to find a handyman who is here to do the best they can for you.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact us at Handyman Connection for your next home improvement project and quote today. 

The post Home Energy Saving Tips for Winter appeared first on Handyman Connection.

When you think about the term sustainable home renovations you might think that means spending more money. For some green renovations, like bathroom renovations, the remodel can have long-term cost savings.

Green bathroom renovations are one of the most popular types of renovations in Canada. Improving energy and water efficiency, while renovating with sustainable materials, is more affordable than you think. O’Brien Contracting Ltd. serves the Fraser Valley. They share more:

Long-term energy savings = long term cost savings

Your family uses a lot of water in the bathroom. In fact, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation shares that bathrooms account for about 75% of the water used in the average home. That is a lot of money spent on a utility that literally goes down the drain.

Bathroom renovation companies in the Fraser Valley can help you bring that percentage way down. You can install low-flow, efficient faucets, and fixtures. That includes low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets. You won’t have to sacrifice water pressure either, just reap the benefits of cost savings in the long-term.

Sustainable products are cost-effective

Products that were harvested ethically and sustainably can be more affordable than other renovation materials. For example, recycled countertops and tiles, natural products like wood and stone, and locally sourced products do not have to come with a higher price tag. The designers at O’Brien Contracting can show you some examples of sustainable products that will match your vision for your dream bathroom renovation.

Wise choices can save money down the road

There are less-fun elements of a bathroom renovation that have nothing to do with aesthetics but can still help reduce utility bills. Low-energy exhaust fans, energy efficient ENERGY STAR windows, proper pipe insulation, and efficient lighting are some examples. Not only will these additions help you save energy and money, but they can also prevent costly repairs in the future.

For example, a high quality, efficient exhaust fan will ensure your bathroom is properly ventilated to the outside. Otherwise, you might get a build-up of condensation and moisture that can result in mould or mildew. Not only is this hazardous to your health, but it can also be costly to remove and repair.

Hiring the right general contractor

If you’re interested in sustainable renovations, or even building a Net Zero home, choosing the right general contractor is a critical first step. O’Brien Contracting envisions a more sustainable future. They are commited to better building practices that focus on creating efficiency in the home. They can show you cost-effect ways to achieve sustainability and energy efficiency with your major home renovation.

For an environmentally-friendly bathroom renovation, contact O’Brien Contracting Ltd. today!

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

In some cases, completing a DIY home project can be rewarding. In others, it can be a disaster. A bathroom, though the room seems small, is complicated with many parts involved. Plumbing, electrical, and other fixtures present plenty of opportunities for mistakes.

Tadashi Homes in Langley offers a wide range of renovation services. They share why you should always hire a professional for your bathroom renovation:

Amateur electrical work is dangerous

If you need to do any electrical work in your bathroom renovation, you should always hire a professional. Even small mistakes can have grave consequences when it comes to electrical. Not only that, you’ll need permits for many electrical installations. If a fire occurs due to faulty wiring, it probably won’t be covered in your home insurance policy.

Plus, working with electrical work near plumbing can cause an electrocution hazard. A seasoned professional can quickly spot potential issues before they become dangerous. Finding these issues is something you could miss if you don’t have a trained eye. For your safety and the safety of the family at home, always hire a pro.

Plumbing work requires skill and experience

Installing plumbing might seem straight forward, but it’s more sensitive than you think.  Plumbing that is not installed correctly or moved correctly could leak. If you don’t notice the leak right away, it can lead to some costly damage to other parts of the room. You might have to tear out new drywall or cabinets and replace them if the damage is severe. Save yourself the cost, headache, and time by hiring a professional from the beginning.

Bathroom installations can be challenging

Spending a weekend watching YouTube videos can never compete with a renovation company with years of professional and practical experience. There are aspects of your bathroom renovation that will require challenging installations. Correctly laying tile, installing a glass walk-in shower, and even installing the bathroom fan is more complicated than you might think.

For example, you’ll need to vent the bathroom fan from the ceiling, through the attic, and through a hole cut through your roof. If done incorrectly, you could have leaks or risk that your bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation. Read more bathroom renovation projects you should never attempt yourself.

Avoid these costly and sometimes dangerous mistakes by hiring a professional bathroom renovation company from the beginning. Not only can they help you with design and choosing materials, but they will also ensure all installations are done correctly and safely. You’ll save time, misery, and most importantly, will get the bathroom you’ve always dream of with flawless results.

Bathroom Renovations in Langley

Tadashi Homes in Langley is a renovation company serving Langley and the Lower Mainland. This husband and wife team will work with you to make your home renovation dreams come true. They pride themselves on attention to detail, client relationships, and delivering beautifully renovated spaces.

If you’re thinking of renovating, contact the professionals at Tadashi Homes!

Click to Find >>> Bathroom Renovations in Langley

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

Electricians can fix and maintain your home’s electrical system year-round. No matter the home project, they are there to keep the system running smoothly. While homeowners may expect them to help with things like upgrading electrical panels or wiring new homes, there’s actually lots of other projects they can help with. Here are some projects the electricians at DLP Electrical can help with around your home. 

Interior lighting

Electricians can help install new lighting fixtures in your home. If improperly installed, the light could short-circuit and cause a fire hazard. Or, it could use more energy than necessary. Using an electrician to install the interior lighting in your home will get the job done quickly and properly. Professional installation will also ensure that your home and family are safe from fire hazards. 

Exterior electrical work

There are several outdoor projects that electricians can assist you with. There are the basic treatments such as outdoor lighting, but it goes further than that. If you’re installing something like a hot tub in your backyard, it’s a good idea to hire an electrician. It is possible that you will need to upgrade your electrical panel if you require more amperage.

There are also different outdoor projects such as kitchen installations, or patio heaters. A heated patio during those colder temperatures can be handy for entertaining guests or simply relaxing at home. No matter the project, an electrician is there to help and can make your vision of your backyard a reality. 

New construction

With a new home, there are endless possibilities for the home’s design. Whether you’re wanting to stick to the basics of electrical work or add different things like an electric fireplace, under-cabinet lighting, or heated floors, an electrician has you covered. Some homeowners might choose to pre-wire for a future solar power system, or ensure they’re electrical service can handle an electric vehicle charging station. They’ll be able to get your home set for many years to come and properly up to code. 

Any minor repairs

Noticed an outlet in your home that doesn’t seem to work? Got a light fixture burning through light bulbs quicker than usual? An electrician can help with any minor repairs your home may require. It can be as simple as a service call to get a problem sorted out. Furthermore, hiring an electrician can save your home’s electrical system from any further damage, and keep things running smoothly. If you suspect you have a problem with an outlet, switch, or circuit, contact an electrician right away. If left too long, it could create a fire hazard. 

Electricians in Vancouver

DLP takes pride in what they do. They are committed to customer satisfaction and quality workmanship with each and every project. With over 15 years of experience, DLP is an insured, licensed, and bonded electrical contractor specializing in both residential and commercial projects.

To request a quote, contact DLP Electrical today!

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

Given the right design and planning, even a small basement can have as much potential and appeal as a large one. The trick is to work within the space and maximize what is already there. 4 O.A.K Construction, a professional renovations company in Edmonton, can help do just that. They share some tips and tricks to make a small basement feel bigger with the right renovation:

Keep the colours light and bright

Basements and dark colours generally don’t mix well unless there is the right blend of lighting and colour balance. That’s why it’s better to focus on brighter colours in a small basement to help create a sense of space. Lighting will naturally reflect off lighter walls, which helps make the basement feel bigger. Even painting the ceiling a shade lighter than the walls will add a sense of height to the area. If you do want some dark, accent colours, focus on furniture or appliances for those shades. Dark cabinets on a kitchenette or for home theatre cabinets will create a striking contrast and add some depth.

Keep the space open

Pick furniture that will fit in the space of the room and still keeps the floors open. Creating a natural pathway helps draw the eye down the room’s length, making it seem bigger. Open shelving on the walls takes up less visual space so that the walls themselves likewise feel bigger and more open. Instead of multiple, smaller accent pieces or art, stick with one large statement piece. That way, you still get visual interest and appeal, without the sense of being cluttered.

Maximize natural lighting or stage lighting

If you’re able to, consider installing windows. Windows help create a connection to the outside and bring in natural sunlight. Egress windows, which are legally required for basement bedrooms, invite ventilation as well. That welcome source of clean, fresh air will keep the basement from feeling stale and closed-off. For basements that are fully below grade or won’t have a bedroom, staged lighting can be effective. Layers of lighting, like general and task lighting, help create an even spread of light. Even interesting light fixtures will help with depth and space. Accent ceiling fixtures, for example, draw the focus upwards, which creates a sense of height.

Focus on one purpose

Larger basements can be multipurpose in their use, but a smaller basement may not have the same luxury. Instead of combining a new bedroom and secondary living room, focus on one new purpose. Small basements can still work just as well for a home theatre or gym, given the right design. It’ll also help add more value to the basement by investing in quality additions that benefit the new room. To add multipurpose elements, focus on the furniture. Murphy beds in a small suite can be used as needed and stored otherwise to keep the space open. Seats with hidden storage can be used for lounging or double as a breakfast nook while keeping items out of sight.

Basement Renovations in Edmonton

4 O.A.K Construction has 20 years of renovation experience in delivering high-quality results and projects. Whether big or small, their professionals can help with any interior or exterior renovation. They treat your home as their own, which means every step is guaranteed to be handled with care and completed on time.

Contact 4 O.A.K Construction today!

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

Advice on Updating Your Home for Aging in Place

If you or your loved one are experiencing aging in place in your home of many years, there are important updates and measures to be taken to a home for the safety of the seniors living there. This blog will explain the process of aging in place and how your home can be readied to help you or your loved one feel more comfortable.

Aging in place is a very transitional time and is a chapter of life that is bound to come at one point. Items in your home such as the stairs, hard floors, fixtures in the bathroom, and more can all become a risk to a senior who is going about their daily life. With the help of a local handyman, you can have your home updated to remove and prevent these risks such as falls. The first step to finding a handyman is to schedule an estimate with multiple companies and to meet with them to discuss your needs and budget. It is important to find professionals who are there for you and ready to create the services you need and will benefit from.

Updating physical obstacles in your home or hazards can range from several examples such as installing grab bars in bathrooms or any entry ways with steps, shower seat or walk-in tub installation, anti-scald device installation, motion-sensor faucets, roll-out shelving for accessibility, motion-sensor lighting, stairlift installation, door camera or caregiver cameras, and more. If you need to make your home more accessible, doorways can be widened for walkers and wheelchair use, ramps can be installed, and more.

These updates in you or your senior’s home can help to make the aging in place transition easier and more comfortable. Be sure to tell your handymen exactly what you need to get the services perfect for you.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact our talented handymen at Handyman Connection for all your updates, construction, and repair needs. Schedule an estimate to begin planning your next project today.

The post Aging in Place appeared first on Handyman Connection.