Month: September 2021

A home inspection is one of the final and most important steps when buying or selling a home. The inspection will catch any issues before you buy that could cost money after the deal. It’s why if you are on the selling end, you want your home ready to pass any inspections.

Ropa Projects in Calgary is a local home renovations company that offers home inspection services as well. They share some tips when it comes to getting your home ready for a home inspection.

Foundation problems

If there are problems with the foundation, a home inspection will bring them to light. This can spell trouble depending on the issue. Serious problems can be caused by tree roots under the home, poor reinforcements, or uneven settling. Often, minor cracks can be repaired, but more serious problems should be handled before you list. Ropa Projects also offers residential structural engineer services, so they can help with the work. It’ll ensure your home retains its value and does well on the market. 

Leaking pipes and plumbing

If you have a leaking toilet or faucet, don’t ignore the issue. Even minor plumbing issues will show potential buyers that you’re not serious about maintenance and upkeep. A leaking pipe can be a major problem, leading to extensive and expensive water damage. Most home inspections include a moisture test. Fix your plumbing and take care of any moisture issues like mildew or mould before you list.

When it comes to those minor upgrades, old or leaky faucets are easy to replace with newer and higher-quality models. Little upgrades like that will add more value right back into the home, so you get a better ROI when selling. Choose low-flow fixtures and faucets and make your home attractive on the real estate market. 

Electrical problems

Right alongside plumbing problems, electrical problems are another commonly found issue during inspections. It’s also a major downside for potential buyers, as it increases the risk of home fires or higher monthly bills. Address any issue like fraying wires, DIY work or a lack of enough power immediately. Similar to plumbing upgrades, electrical updates and improvements will go a long way. It can make your home a market contender with some modern changes or energy-saving upgrades.

Roofing

Home inspectors will definitely look at the roof and its quality, so don’t think any problems there will go unnoticed. For many homebuyers, roofing troubles are a key reason to walk away from a house deal. While installing a new roof or handling the repairs may seem costly, it can be the difference between selling or not. Even interior roofing troubles like a poorly insulated or vented attic will play a big role. Take the time to install a new roof along with proper ventilation and long-lasting insulation. Not only will it appeal to buyers, but it will help protect your home in the meantime. That is a sizeable investment worth protecting. 

General Contractors and Home Inspections in Calgary

Ropa Projects prides themselves on offering high-quality, long-lasting and custom work on any project. Whether you need interior design advice, a home renovation, landscape work, or architectural advice, Ropa Projects can help. Their focus on details and dedication to their customers makes them a long-lasting choice you can always return to.

Contact Ropa Projects today!

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

Home Improvement Projects to Reclaim Your Dining Room

Many home spaces were converted into offices and workspaces during working from home last year. Our homes really stepped up to allow us to use the spaces in non-traditional ways, but with the return to working on-location and attending school in-person this fall, it’s time to reclaim your dining room and turn it back to normal.

The Temporary Office

Creating a temporary office meant turning the dining table into a workspace, bringing in file cabinets, your computer, printer, extra lighting, and more to be able to complete all your work there. Whether you only brought items into the room, or more structural changes were made, local craftspeople can help you restore your room back to its normal self.

Dining Room Upgrades

As you work on your room, you might visualize new ways to set it up after not having it be a dining room for so long. For example, some valuable home improvement upgrades can be installing new lighting fixtures, installing cabinets to store dishware, replacing your table for something smaller that the family can use, and more. There are many possible changes to consider.

Your dining room has proven it can be whatever you need it to be. Now it’s the time to reclaim it back to its original purpose, with a few updates along the way. See how you can restore your area and update it with a little paint job, new lighting, and more. The options are limitless.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact Handyman Connection to schedule an estimate with our craftspeople. Call or text if you have any questions about our home improvement services.

The post Reclaim Your Dining Room appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

In the 1980s, Polybutylene piping, also known as Poly B piping, was installed into many homes. It was a cheap plumbing option at the time but would cause problems down the line. From Beaumont Mechanical in Calgary, here are some of the dangers of leaving poly b pipes in your home. 

They cause serious water leaks

Poly B pipes were flexible, cost-effective and a seemingly good plumbing solution. However, over time, chemicals like chlorine would build up in the creases of the pipes, a chemical that doesn’t jive well with polybutylene. It causes the pipes to wear down, creates holes, and leads to leaks. Leaks are the most common issue that comes with Poly B pipes. They can cause severe water damage and lead to mould, wood rot, and expensive repairs. Replace your Poly B pipes as soon as possible, and ensure your home is safe from any water damage that may occur.

Insurance companies won’t cover the costs of damages

Once Poly B pipes became a liability, insurance companies stayed away. Poly B plumbing caused many lawsuits years ago, and home insurance policies do not like Poly B. Check your policy details regarding Poly B pipes. They might not cover damages due to leaks and could cause issues with a claim if you have future water damage.

Protect your home from water damage, and ensure your plumbing is compliant with your home insurance policy. A Poly B plumbing replacement is worth the investment. 

It’s more difficult to sell a house with Poly B 

Poly B pipes are a water risk, and issues will come up during home inspections when trying to sell, and it could turn buyers away. A homebuyer, unless looking for a fixer-upper, isn’t going to want to walk into a house sale knowing that they’ll have to do a major renovation off the get-go. Replacing Poly B plumbing will allow you to market its brand-new plumbing system and make it more attractive to buyers.  

Plumbers in Calgary

Beaumont Mechanical is a locally-owned and operated small business in Calgary, Alberta. Its mission is to provide high-quality and affordable plumbing, heating, and gas-fitting services to individual homeowners and businesses alike. 

For more information, check out Beaumont Mechanical today!

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

A bathroom renovation can improve looks, function, and resale value too. If your bathroom is small, there are many different solutions to renovate it so it can feel spacious. From JK’s Construction in Vancouver, here are some ways to make your small bathroom feel bigger with your next renovation. 

Light colours, or a feature wall

One way to help the bathroom seem bigger is with paint colours. Lighter, more neutral colours can modernize and open up the space. Another thing you could do with your paint, or potentially something like wallpaper, is to create a feature wall. Having a feature wall that is darker, or simply different from the rest of the walls, creates the illusion of depth in your bathroom. A feature wall can also be the tile surround in the shower, as long as you have a glass enclosure so the tile wall can be seen. This is something a professional contractor like JK’s Construction can help you with. 

Windows and mirrors

Windows open up a space, and let in more natural light. You could incorporate a window, big or small, on your exterior wall, or consider a skylight window. Windows don’t take up any additional space, and make your bathroom airy and bright. In similar fashion, mirrors can too give your bathroom more depth, keep the space light, and help the space appear larger. Mirrors can take up an entire wall, or just hang above the sink. 

Shower and bath combination

While stand-alone tubs can be a great feature, sometimes the space doesn’t allow for it. A shower bathtub combination can save space, while still giving you both features. When it comes to showers, or shower bathtub enclosures, a great way to make the space appear larger is with glass doors, rather than a curtain. Glass allows your eyes to travel to the very back of the room, and give your bathroom a modern, chic look too. 

Pocket doors

Sometimes, because of the layout of the bathroom, it can be a challenge just to open the bathroom door without hitting anything. Pocket doors are a great feature, because they slide in and out of your walls, and don’t take up any additional space. This makes it easier to change your bathroom layout, add more storage, or change anything about your bathroom without a pesky door in the way.

A pocket door is only possible if the wall structure around the bathroom allows it. In some cases, electrical might have to be moved to accommodate a pocket door, and that is not always possible.

Bathroom Renovations in Vancouver

Starting in 1984, JK’s Construction specializes in home renovation and improvement, with a focus on bathroom and kitchen remodels. JK’s Construction is passionate about home renovation, and treats clients’ homes as their own during every project. 

For more information, check out JK’s Construction today!

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

Your garage door plays an integral role in curb appeal, security, and energy efficiency. If you’re buying a new garage door or need garage door service, choosing the right company is a vital first step.

Going Up Doors Ltd. in Edmonton offers garage door replacements and repairs. They share why you should choose them for your garage door needs:

Experience with garage door repairs and installations

Your garage door and opener require regular maintenance to prevent major repairs. If something does go wrong, it’s essential to hire a garage door repair company with plenty of experience. The cables and springs in your garage door mechanisms are under extreme tension. If they should snap, they could cause severe injury and damage to vehicles and other items in the garage. Only an experienced professional should attempt these repairs.

The owner of Going Up Doors has been in the garage door business for over 15 years. They have the experience and knowledge to ensure a safe and effective repair for your garage door and all its many parts. They are trained and certified for all garage door styles and sizes, and all makes and models for residential and commercial overhead doors.

Personal customer service

When choosing a garage door, you need professional advice from someone you can trust. When you work with Going Up Doors, you’ll receive friendly, personal customer service. They are passionate about helping homeowners choose the right garage door or getting an existing door back into operation.

Available seven days a week

If your garage door is malfunctioning, or you need a new garage door ASAP, Going Up Doors is there to help with fast and efficient repairs. They offer garage door service and installs seven days a week and 24-hour emergency service for those unexpected mishaps. If something is wrong, you need to get your garage door in working order so that you, your family, and the contents of your garage are safe.

Help improving curb appeal

Your garage door makes up a significant portion of your home’s façade, especially if it’s attached. If you’re having trouble choosing the right garage door colour and style, Going Up Doors can help. Their team has an eye for exterior home design schemes and can help you achieve your dream look for your home. You’ll love the look of your new garage and how it improves your home’s curb appeal. Check out these garage door ideas to enhance your exterior. 

Locally made garage doors

While Going Up Doors is not a garage door manufacturer, they only use quality locally made doors. A locally made garage door means it has been created for our specific climate. Purchasing a new garage door from a local manufacturer supports local business and boosts the economy. It also means you’re getting a garage door that will best protect your home from the extreme Alberta weather.

Garage Doors in Edmonton

Going Up Doors offers the best of the best when it comes to garage door installations and repairs. So if you’re looking for an experienced, trustworthy company that delivers fast service and premium work, choose Going Up Doors.

Contact them today!

Click to Find >>>> Garage Doors and Openers in Edmonton.

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

When it comes to home insulation, there are several options available to homeowners. While there are benefits to each different kind, spray foam insulation is one that homeowners should consider. The numerous benefits include savings on energy costs, it’s more customizable, and it has long-lasting effects.

Green Home Insulation in Winnipeg explains these benefits in more depth:

Help to save on energy costs

One of the biggest benefits of spray foam insulation is that it helps homeowners cut down on their energy consumption. When applied, the foam helps to seal minuscule cracks and gaps that may exist within walls. Sealing these in a seamless fit helps to block out colder air, and also moist air. By stopping this moist air, also helps to cut down on potential mould growth. A seamless fit of insulation means enhanced thermal performance and that there is less energy leakage in the winter months. This also goes vice versa for the summer months where cooler air is better contained in the home. Homeowners can see these savings in their heating bills and will potentially see savings each month.

Adjustable for a custom fit

As the foam is sprayed into place, it fills in every nook and cranny in the space and is especially great for irregular shapes in the structure of the home. This also means that it has a tight seal around plumbing and electrical within walls and is a great choice for basement insulation. Never worry about gaps within your walls, around doors and windows, or any other space when you use spray foam insulation.

Long-lasting effects

One of the benefits of choosing spray foam insulation is that it has long-lasting effects. Once the insulation has been applied and hardened into place, it keeps its shape for many years. The rigidity of it also means that there are no effects of settling or sagging that can happen with other types of insulation. Once applied, you can close up the walls and not have to worry about your insulation.

Insulation Contractors in Winnipeg

Green Home Insulation is a trusted company when it comes to spray foam insulation. Their tight-knit team can help people improve their home’s efficiency and savings on heating bills. Upgrading your insulation will improve thermal performance, decrease strain on your HVAC system, save on energy bills, and improve home comfort. If you want to learn more, reach out to Green Home Insulation. They can help you create a greener home!

Contact Green Home Insulation today!

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

Next to the kitchen, the bathroom is one of the most commonly renovated rooms in the house. Whether you’re remodelling your master bathroom into a personal oasis or upgrading the main bath for the family, there are things to consider.

Specializing in high-quality home renovations in Edmonton, Four Elements Construction can assist with your bathroom addition or remodel. Consider these bathroom renovation improvements:

Low-flow fixtures and faucets

Water-efficient technology has vastly improved over the years. Nowadays, there is no reason not to include low-flow plumbing fixtures in your bathroom renovation. Low-flow toilets save gallons of water per day, especially in family homes. Low-flow faucets and showerheads also result in significant water savings without sacrificing water pressure. You’ll see these savings on your monthly water bill.

Shower conversion

Tiled shower conversions are the trend for bathroom renovations in Edmonton. Instead of a standard tub and shower combo, homeowners can opt for a walk-in shower with glass doors instead. They are attractive, more accessible, and practical for many people who rarely take baths. You can choose from a range of tiles, designs, and special features like shower seats and spray jets.

If you are planning on moving in the next few years, you might want to make sure you still have at least one bathtub in the home. When you decide to sell, a home without a tub might deter families with children. If you’re not planning on selling in the future, renovate your home in a way that best meets your needs.

Soaker tub for the ensuite, if it’s your preference

If you’re creating a personal oasis in your master bathroom, treat yourself to a large soaker tub. Again, you should only do this if you are a person who enjoys taking a bath. For some people, having a large shower might still be the best choice. If you’re a person who loves to unwind with a hot bath, really treat yourself to a luxurious tub. You’ll be glad you did!

Add more natural light

Natural lighting in a bathroom can make the space feel airy and open. Plus, it helps cut down on electricity consumption. There are a couple of ways you can add more natural light to the bathroom. You can install a new, larger window in the bathroom or shower. If your bathroom wall faces other homes or the street, you might consider privacy glass. If it faces the private backyard, you might enjoy looking out the window while in the shower or bath.

Another option is installing a skylight. You can install a traditional skylight or consider a solar tube or sun tunnel-type skylight. They are like a skylight but are a tube that reflects the sun through what looks like a recessed light fixture. They’re energy-efficient and can bring in functional natural light. Read more ways to lighten up the bathroom.

Major Home Renovations in Edmonton

Four Elements Construction is a knowledgeable, trustworthy, and experienced company offering major renovations and home additions in Edmonton. They specialize in modern home renovations and can help you create the bathroom of your dreams.

Contact them today!

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

Transforming your basement into a legal secondary suite has many benefits. Your basement suite will bring in extra income and helps you build equity faster. It can also be an excellent solution for multi-generational families. Plus, secondary suites help reduce urban sprawl and provide housing diversity in mature neighbourhoods.

Four Elements Construction offers quality major home renovations in Edmonton. If you want to start renting out your basement to tenants, you want to make sure your suite is legal.

Why bother making my basement suite ‘legal’?

There are indeed illegal secondary suites in the city. Just because they exist doesn’t make them okay. A legal suite will have proper permitting. That makes sure things were done correctly and by a professional when the basement renovation was complete. You don’t want to be responsible for injury to a tenant or damage to the suite due to faulty work.

Plus, you could face heavy fines from the city for operating an illegal suite. They could force you to stop collecting rent or to apply for permits retroactively. The suite will likely require retrofits and Edmonton basement renovations to get it up to legal standards.

What does a legal secondary suite in Edmonton need?

The City of Edmonton lays out its requirements quite simply in this Secondary Suite Design Guide. You’ll still need a reputable renovation company to do the job. Here is a breakdown of what you’ll need to ensure the suite is legal:

Permits:

This includes a building permit and permits for electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and ventilation in the basement. A certified tradesperson but obtain these permits. They might require periodic inspections throughout the construction stage.

Entrance requirements:

The basement needs to have its own entrance. It can be a shared side or back door, but the tenants cannot be walking through your living area to get to their suite.

Appliances:

The basement suite needs its own appliances, including a fridge and cooking appliance and a full bathroom. Laundry rooms are often considered common shared areas, and so sharing those appliances is okay. You don’t have to outfit the suite with a separate laundry room, but it is an attractive feature for tenants.

Additional soundproofing:

Sound absorbing material, like insulation, must be installed in the walls and ceiling between the basement suite and the main dwelling. Soundproofing should also occur between the suite and any common areas shared with others.

Egress windows for bedrooms:

The windows in any sleeping spaces must be egress windows that can be opened from the inside without obstruction. Egress windows provide a safe fire exit.

Fire protection and alarms:

Additional fire protection, like gypsum board, needs to be installed. Installers will put it between any wall or ceiling to separate the suite from the main dwelling and common areas. It also needs to be on walls and ceilings between any rooms containing fuel-fired appliances. You’ll need smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the suite.

Dedicated, ventilated heating source:

The secondary suite needs a separate ventilated heat source. Acceptable options include forced-air furnace, hydronic radiant heating, or electric baseboard heating.

Basement development in Edmonton

If you’re ready for a major home renovation in Edmonton to transform your downstairs into an attractive, functional, and lucrative secondary suite, connect with Four Elements Construction. They can help create a cost-effect design plan that ensures everything is done right. Then you can start earning that extra income.

Get started today! Contact Four Elements Construction.

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

Kitchen renovations can add value to your home and have a good return on investment. Before you begin with design, demolition, and construction, you need to create a budget. Four Elements Construction is a reputable and experienced renovation company in Edmonton. They share tips for creating a budget for your kitchen renovation:

Know how much you want to spend

Knowing how much you want to spend seems obvious, but there are still many things to consider.  There is an enormous range when it comes to kitchen renovation costs. You can do a minor cosmetic upgrade for a few thousand dollars, or a major upscale remodel for $80,000 or more.

Decide what you want to do and how much you can afford. If you plan on moving within the next few years, ask your renovation contractor what types of upgrades you should do to help get a return on your investment. If you are in your forever home, renovate in a way that will best benefit your family.

Decide what is most important to you

When you know how much you want to spend, make a list of things that are must-haves for your Edmonton kitchen renovations. Do you want new energy-efficient appliances? A new kitchen layout? New cabinets, or do you want to reface your original cabinets instead? This list will help determine how much or how little you wish to spend on the various components of the renovation.

Get a detailed cost breakdown

An experienced general contractor in Edmonton will give you a detailed cost breakdown of your potential kitchen renovation once they determine the project’s scope. This breakdown will show you where the money in your budget will go. New cabinets, for example, can make up 35% of your budget or more. It will also factor in costs like permit fees, labour, materials, and supplies.

Add a contingency budget

Unfortunately, home renovations can have hiccups. Things like finding mould or faulty electrical work behind the walls could mean extra repair costs. You might have to change your plans on product selection if there is a shortage of something you initially chose. Having a 10-20% contingency budget will ensure you’re financially and mentally prepared for those extra costs.

Stick to the plan as best you can

It will be easy to add new features and plans to the kitchen remodel as the project is underway. Change orders are costly, and they add up fast. When you work with Four Elements Construction, they will help you create a design plan for your kitchen remodel that best matches your budget. Changing your mind, and adding things throughout the project, is a sure-fire way to go over budget. If you feel tempted, go back to the “how much do you want to spend?” stage and remind yourself that your original, well-planned budget is there for a reason – and that you have a kitchen design plan underway that will give you the beautiful kitchen you’ve always wanted.

If you’re ready to start the kitchen renovation process, contact Four Elements Construction!

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

Learn How to Pick the Right Light Fixtures for Your Home

If you are upgrading rooms in your home or that one flickering light needs replacing, here are some ways you can find the right lights. Here are some of our favorite tips on how to pick out the right light fixtures for any room in your house. Depending on the need, space, and design of a room, you have many options to pick from.

The Room

Different rooms in your home will have different needs when it comes to lighting. Your garage or basement will want more fluorescent lighting, perhaps, if brightness is the goal to light up those areas without natural lighting or to create a bright workspace. If you are picking lights for a bedroom or living space, a warmer ambiance will create a comfortable setting whereas too bright or too many lights can make the room feel unwelcoming.

Types of Light Fixtures

There are three main types of lighting in a room.

1. Ambient Lighting: The main light source; usually, recessed lighting or an overhead light.
2. Task Lighting: Lights for an area where a specific activity takes place.
3. Accent Lighting: Decorative lighting to create specific points of interest in a room.

When choosing between different kinds of light fixtures, the use of the light and space will dictate which one you choose. For example, under-cabinet lighting is great to light up counter-space in your kitchen. An open entryway can benefit from larger lighting like a chandelier without looking too cluttered. Get creative and cluster lights or have many kinds in one room instead of only a ceiling light as well to create different ambiances, moods, and focus.

There are many kinds of fixtures to choose from:

• Desk Lamps
• Chandeliers
• Wall Sconces
• Ceiling Lights
• String Lights
• Floor Lamps
• Recessed Lighting
• Under-Cabinet Lighting
• Track Lighting
• And More

Start looking and see how you can improve your home with these lighting tips. From ambient to accent lighting, there are many routes to go. Take your time and see what lighting works the best for you.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact our craftspeople at Handyman Connection. Call or text to schedule your home consultation for our home improvement services in no time.

The post How to Pick the Right Light Fixtures appeared first on Handyman Corporate.