Month: April 2022

Complete guide to lawn care

A rich green and healthy lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners. However, nurturing your lawn is a lot of work. It requires time, knowledge, and the right equipment. For these reasons and more, hiring a professional lawn care company is the best decision you can make for your lawn.

HHS Contracting Inc. in Edmonton is an experienced property maintenance company servicing residential and commercial properties. They provide complete lawn care in comprehensive and customizable packages.

Fertilizer

If you want a vibrant and lush lawn, you must fertilize it. Soil naturally decreases in nutrients over time, which is why fertilizer is so crucial. Fertilizer restores the nutrient content of the soil, allowing it to thrive. After fertilization, your lawn grows deeper roots, becomes greener, and lasts longer.

Weed Control

Eliminating weeds is a crucial part of lawn care. If left controlled, weeds could consume your entire yard. This is because weeds grow faster than grass, absorbing the soil’s nutrients. Consequently, the grass will be starved of the nutrients it needs to grow. Your lawn will be weaker and its growth stunted.

Power Raking

There is a layer of organic materials underneath your lawn called thatch made of living shoots, roots, stems, and leaves. Thatch that is more than 1/2 thick negatively impacts lawn health. This is because it prevents water, air, and nutrients from reaching the soil. Additionally, thick thatch creates a humid environment for the roots, promoting fungal and bacterial diseases. Plus, insects and pests live in thatch. Power raking is a technique of slicing this thatch so nutrients, water, and air can find their way to the soil. Learn more about thatch.

Core Aeration

Core aeration is another method of tackling thick thatch. Whereas power raking uses a revolving reel, core aeration uses a machine to remove thin plugs of soil and thatch. This technique is gentle on the grass. It reduces soil compaction and creates channels whereby nutrients, water, and air can reach the soil.

Cutting and Trimming

Regularly cutting and trimming your grass helps keep your lawn healthy and strong. When the grass is kept at the right height, the healthiest grass blades thrive and multiply while the weak ones die. In turn, this creates a healthier root system. Your lawn will also grow faster, more even, and recover faster. Lastly, regular lawn mowing eliminates pests that thrive in an overgrown lawn.

Debris Removal

Too often, lawn maintenance companies charge extra for removing the clippings and lawn debris they create during the lawn care process. At HHS Contracting Inc., there are no additional costs for cleaning up. Every one of their packages includes bagging and debris removal.

Lawn Care & Maintenance in Edmonton

HHS Contracting Inc. offers property maintenance for residential, commercial, and industrial clients in Edmonton and surrounding areas. They provide a range of services in fully customizable packages. Their services include lawn care, hedge pruning, parking lot sweeping, line maintenance, and snow removal. You can rely on HHS Contracting Inc. and its entire staff for superb professionalism and customer service.

Contact HHS Contracting Inc. today!

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RenovationFind Certified
RenovationFind Certified symbolizes integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, and maintenance. It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, services, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Why you should choose eco-side siding for your home

More home renovations blend style with green upgrades that make your home much more sustainable. These green upgrades tend to last longer than typical materials, so it’s an excellent investment. With siding, eco-side it’s a green option that will protect your home and last for years. 

Shield Roofing & Exteriors Inc. in Calgary is a professional roofing and exterior renovations company. They share the benefits of choosing eco-side siding for your home:

What is eco-side siding?

This wood composite siding option uses 100% pre-consumer recycled content making it completely green. The siding is further manufactured with additives that increase its strength, hardness, and durability, ensuring that it lasts many years. It also helps lower your carbon footprint while looking incredibly stylish, making it a great all-around home addition. 

Natural wood beauty

Wood siding is incredibly stylish and adds an appealing rustic look to your home. However, wood siding also comes with much more maintenance, which not all homeowners want. That’s where eco-side siding comes in as the perfect alternative. Visually, it very closely resembles the look of wood thanks to its blend of wood materials, fibres, and strands. Unlike natural wood, though, eco-side siding is less expensive. Therefore, you can enjoy the appeal of wood without the cost.

Eco-friendly choice

As far as greener choices go, eco-side siding is a top eco-friendly choice. Since it’s manufactured using only pre-consumer recycled materials and with a lowered carbon footprint, it’s very green. Cutting back on global waste and making your home greener makes it a market contender to conscious buyers. Down the road, when you do replace the siding, it won’t end up in the landfills. Instead, the old siding will break down just like natural wood.

Long-lasting

Eco-side is built and designed to do more than just look stylish and add appeal to your home. The material is designed to offer maximum protection against various weather types. Impacts from hail won’t cause damage, water won’t be able to seep in, and direct sunlight won’t cause fading. Eco-side siding is designed to stand up to whatever weather may hit year-round. 

Easy customization 

The installation process is quick for any professional, so you can enjoy the siding benefits much sooner. But before installing it, there’s the matter of deciding what look and style you want. With eco-side siding, there are several colours to choose from. Eco-side ranges from light shades to complement a modern home to darker, bolder shades to make your home stand out. 

Exterior Renovations in Calgary

With over 20 years of experience, Shield Roofing & Exteriors is a company you can trust with your home. They can help with roofing projects and exterior renovations and provide guaranteed quality each time. No project is too big or too small for their team, so you can always rely on them to add new value to your home.

Contact Shield Roofing & Exteriors today!

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RenovationFind Certified
RenovationFind Certified symbolizes integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, and maintenance. It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, services, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Five reasons to hire professional painters

Sometimes, all your home needs is a fresh coat of paint to feel brighter, livelier, and more modern. There’s no doubt that new paint can dramatically change the look and feel of your house. However, painting can be a big, time-consuming project. That’s why it’s always best to leave the painting to the professionals. You benefit from a higher quality final product in less time.

Russell & Cassidy Painting in Ottawa provides outstanding interior and exterior painting services. They have over 40 years of combined experience servicing residential and commercial clients. Here’s why you should hire professional painters:

Superior Quality

The walls in your house are the backdrop to your life. Moreover, they set the tone for the rest of the interior design. High-quality painting elevates the rest of the room and, therefore, the atmosphere of your home. While painting may seem easy enough for the avid DIYer, it’s surprisingly easy to make mistakes. Paint drips, streaks, unevenness, and missed spots can all befall inexperienced painters. On the other hand, professional painters are highly skilled. They deliver beautiful, seamless results every time.

Attention to Detail

Professional painters have an attention to detail that sets them apart from even enthusiastic DIYers. After all, they are experts at what they do. With professional painters and a steady hand, every nook, cranny, and hard-to-reach place in your home is painted to perfection. Furthermore, their experience and training mean they notice things that the average homeowners may miss.

Preparation

Preparation is absolutely crucial to a high-quality and long-lasting painting application. Nicks, chips, or holes in your drywall negatively impact the new coat of paint. Consequently, painting should not begin until the drywall is repaired. A professional painting company takes care of this for you. They complete all the necessary prep work and drywall repair before beginning.

Saves Time

Painting can take a long time- if you don’t know what you’re doing. Experienced painters can complete a project in a day or two. However, it might take the average DIYer a week or more. DIYers are also more likely to make mistakes. Fixing these errors takes more time and pushes back the completion date. By hiring professional painters, you save yourself valuable time.

Quality Materials

Quality results require quality materials. Professional painters know the best paint to use for your style and budget. They also know what type of paint to buy. Additionally, professional painting companies buy their paints wholesale. This means they can get a better quality paint for a better price. Plus, companies like Russell & Cassidy Painting use paints that are better for your health. Their paints have low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), so they’re safer for you and your family.

Painters in Ottawa

Russell & Cassidy Painting is your local professional painting company for the Ottawa area. They provide meticulous, timely, and high-quality painting results for all their clients and are committed to delivering incredible customer service. They do this by listening to your goals, finishing on time and on budget, and maintaining clear communication throughout the entire process.

Contact Russell & Cassidy Painting for your free quote!

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RenovationFind Certified
RenovationFind Certified symbolizes integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, and maintenance. It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest-growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, services, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

The 5 Best Concrete Contractors in Calgary

Concrete is an essential building material. It makes up our roadways, bridges, sidewalks, and even the foundation of our homes. Needless to say, the uses of concrete as vast. This is because it’s an extraordinarily durable, long-lasting, and versatile material. In fact, concrete is one of the strongest building materials available. Furthermore, since it can be poured and moulded to fit any shape, it’s a fantastic option for any construction project. For these reasons and more, you can find both structural and decorative uses for concrete all-around your home.

In this article, you can find the top 5 concrete companies. Calgary home and business owners looking to repair existing concrete, install new concrete features or improve their hardscaping should consider these outstanding companies.

Is concrete the same as cement?

No, concrete is not the same as cement! Although you may have heard concrete and cement used interchangeably, they are different materials. In fact, cement is one component of concrete, making up 10-15% of the total concrete mix. Concrete is a ubiquitous building material, whereas pure cement is not. Roads, sidewalks, backyard patios, and driveways are made of concrete, and concrete is the material of choice because it is incredibly durable and long-lasting. Unlike pure cement, concrete can last for hundreds of years. Today, we mainly use cement for grouting and binding concrete.

So what is concrete?

Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate (sand, stone, and gravel). The aggregates make up 75% of the concrete. When water and cement mix, these aggregates bind together. The materials must be extremely clean because contamination can compromise the concrete’s strength. Generally, stronger concretes contain less water and larger aggregates.

Common uses of concrete

Everyone knows concrete makes up our roads, bridges, sidewalks, and parking lots. However, concrete also has many different uses inside and outside your home. Concrete countertops, sinks, and even floors have all become popular over recent years. When it comes to the exterior of your home, we associate concrete with driveways, walkways, foundations, and garage pads.

But this is only the beginning! Concrete in Calgary is also used for patios, pool decks, retaining walls, and hardscaping. Moreover, decorative concrete can add a unique beauty to regular concrete features. You get the chance to be creative and enjoy something entirely custom for your home.

Benefits of hardscaping with concrete

Hardscaping is any form of landscaping that uses non-living or non-vegetative elements. This includes work done with brick, stones, gravel, and concrete. On the other hand, softscaping is landscaping that includes greenery and vegetation.

Good landscape design involves an attractive combination of both hardscaping and softscaping. After all, variation and balance are key components of a visually pleasing yard. If you choose to focus solely on softscaping, you’re missing out. Hardscaping and softscaping complement one another to create a harmonious and interesting yard.

That being said, hardscaping has its own unique benefits over softscaping. Therefore, you may opt for including a bit more hardscaping in your yard.

Controls erosion

Concrete retaining walls and barriers direct water drainage. This can prevent excess water from eroding the topsoil in your flowerbeds or garden. This is good for the health of your plants and means you won’t have to replace the soil in your yard as frequently.

Manages weeds

Weeds need soil to grow. By choosing to have concrete over more of your yard, you limit where weeds can sprout. Concrete patios, pool decks, and outdoor living spaces are not conducive to weed growth. This means less weeding for you!

Guides traffic

Concrete walkways and paths let guests know where they should walk. This preserves your lawn and prevents unfortunate trampling. Additionally, these walkways provide leading eyes, guiding the eyes to different focal points in your yard.

Increases functional space

Patios, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas are all examples of hardscaping. Concrete or paving stones form the foundation for your outdoor activities. They provide a place to relax, gather, and entertain friends and family. Additionally, these spaces can be customized by your concrete contractor. Calgary homeowners who want to spend more time outside should consider using concrete to extend the functional and liveable space on their property.

Less maintenance

Softscaping elements require a lot of maintenance. They must be watered, fertilized, weeded, mowed, and trimmed. On the other, hardscaping needs next to no maintenance. All you have to do is occasionally sweep or power wash.

Ideas for hardscaping with concrete

Patio

An outdoor, concrete patio helps you get more out of your yard. It provides the perfect place to gather, entertain, and relax. This extra space increases the liveable area on your property, encouraging you to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine in the warmer months. Furthermore, you can customize your patio to suit your lifestyle. For example, add some furniture, a bbq, or outdoor lighting.

Outdoor kitchen

If you want to level up your entertaining, install an outdoor kitchen. It makes it that much easier to enjoy spending time outdoors with friends and family. Plus, you can design the majority of your outdoor kitchen with concrete. A concrete floor, concrete walls, and a concrete counter are durable enough to be outside.

Firepit

An outdoor fire pit is ideal for socializing. Additionally, it increases the usability of your concrete patio since it helps to keep you and your guests warm. Outdoor fire pits provide a useful focal point, which you can surround with outdoor sofas and bench-seating. If this sounds like just your style, contact one of the listed concrete companies. Calgary summers are short; an outdoor concrete fireplace can help you spend more time outside.

Pool deck

Concrete is a common material for pool decks. This is because it’s budget-friendly, safe, durable, and easy to maintain. Broomed finishes, and textured overlays make concrete more slip-resistant and, therefore, safer. Additionally, concrete reflects solar radiation, so it doesn’t heat up as much as other materials. Poured concrete pool decks also only need occasional cleaning.

In no particular order, here are the best concrete companies in Calgary:

1. Blue Lake Contracting

Blue Lake Contracting is a full-service landscaping and renovation company and a concrete contractor. Calgary homeowners and business owners rely on them for various services. For example, Blue Lake Contracting offers the following services to their residential clients: landscaping, deck & fence building, garage building, basement renovations, and major home improvements. In addition, commercial property owners look to them for landscaping, year-round maintenance, and snow removal. When it comes to concrete in Calgary, Blue Lake Contracting has a variety of affordable styles. They are experts in broom finished concrete, exposed concrete, stamped concrete, and coloured concrete. Furthermore, their designs are completely customizable.

Key Services & Features

– Concrete services for residential and commercial properties
– Offer different finishes, styles, and custom colours
– Retaining walls, driveways, patios, hot tub bases, garage pads, and more!
– Full-service landscaping and renovation company
– Other services include: basement renovations, fences, garage building
– Snow removal and lot maintenance for commercial clients
– Flexible financing options
– Free estimates

Customer Feedback

Blue Lake Contracting did a tear-out and a small coloured and stamped concrete sidewalk pour for us. We are very pleased with their approach and with the finished product. Their response to our inquiry, completing a site visit and quote submission was done quickly and professionally. The work was scheduled and completed as stated. The work crew was very courteous and minimized the mess and disruption. No hesitation in recommending Blue Lake.

– David, Google

2. J-Paul Construction Services Ltd.

J-Paul Construction Services is a residential and commercial general contracting and construction company. They also provide concrete in Calgary. Their custom concrete solutions are offered in conjunction with their design-build general contracting services. They can provide both structural and architectural concrete services because of their wealth of knowledge, experience, and technique. Before construction begins, they take clients through a preliminary investigation and assessment to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Their projects are always high-quality, on time, and within budget. Additionally, J-Paul Construction Services offer new construction and renovation general contracting for commercial and residential clients. They take clients from design to build and even cover building maintenance!

Key Services & Features

– Concrete services for residential and commercial properties
– Offer different finishes, styles, and custom colours
– Foundations, driveways, suspended slabs, pools, and more!
– Concrete sealing, finishing, cutting, and demolition
– Full service general contracting and construction company
– Other services include: design, permitting, building maintenance
– Free estimates

Customer Feedback

JP is so meticulous clean and takes such good care of us. He is clean and consistently provides value to our home. Would recommend him in a heartbeat.

– Laura, Facebook

3. SSD Landscaping & Construction

SSD Landscaping is a landscaping company that specializes in concrete in Calgary. Although they work with all types of concrete, they are best known for their stamped concrete. This includes various designs and colours to create a custom look. Additionally, they offer an exposed finish and a basic broom finish. Their concrete is sealed so it won’t fade or discolour over time. SSD Landscaping also installs decorative and load-bearing retaining walls and beautiful paving stones. Lastly, they provide lawn care services for residential and commercial clients. This includes weekly mowing, striping, and fertilizer application.

Key Services & Features

– Concrete services for residential and commercial properties
– Specialize in stamped concrete with different designs, colours, and finishes
– Retaining walls, walkways, driveway extensions, and more!
– Full-service landscaping and construction company
– Other services include: paver stones, lawn care, decorative rocks
– Free estimates

Customer Feedback

Highly recommend SDD landscaping and concrete. They were very professional & quick with their responses. Their work speaks for itself! I hired them to demolish my old patio and pour a new one. With the extremely rainy weather, plus the difficult placements of the patio, it made the project very challenging. But Sukh and his team had no problem going the extra mile to achieve exactly what we wanted! Final product was amazing for a very good price! Will definitely be calling them for any future projects!

– Gursharn, Google

4. YME Construction Ltd.

YME Construction Ltd specializes in roofing, siding, stucco, and concrete in Calgary. They install walkways, patios, stairs, pool areas, and basement floors are a concrete contractor. Calgary homeowners can even opt for a heated driveway to never have to shovel snow again! Additionally, they provide concrete ramps and curbs for businesses. YME Construction has also experienced roofers, offering both roof repair, installation, and replacement. Furthermore, they help maintain the outside appearance of your home with beautiful vinyl siding and stucco. All in all, YME Construction are expert in all things exterior.

Key Services & Features

– Concrete services for residential and commercial properties
– Offer different finishes, styles, and custom colours
– Patios, walkways, stairs, pool areas, basement floors, ramps, driveways, and more!
– Specialize in all things exterior
– Other services include: roofing, stucco, vinyl siding, soffit and fascia
– Free consultation and estimates

Customer Feedback

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5. Grizzly Creek Projects

Grizzly Creek Projects are experts in concrete. They have more than 20 years of experience producing high-quality concrete products that stand the test of time. If you have a project that involves concrete, Grizzly Creek Projects will have done it many times before. Furthermore, they know how to complete projects on time and on budget. Residential clients look to them for various services, including garage pads, driveways, hardscaping, decorative concrete, retaining walls, and more. They even provide concrete sport court installation. This sets them apart from other concrete companies. Calgary homeowners who dream of an outdoor court for tennis, pickleball, or basketball (or an outdoor rink!) should consider Grizzly Creek Projects. Additionally, they do sidewalks, plumbing cutouts, floor drain systems, and more for commercial properties.

Key Services & Features

– Concrete services for residential and commercial properties
– Offer different finishes, styles, and custom colours
– Driveways, stairs, sidewalks, curbs, patios, hot tub pads, and more!
– Sport court concrete installations
– Specialize in all things concrete
– Provide concrete renewal, repair, and removal
– Instant free quotes

Customer Feedback

Greg was amazing! He was very responsive, easy to work with and did exactly what he said he would do. The quality of his work was awesome. He treated our yard as if it was his and was always mindful of the surrounding. He built a sport court and retaining wall for us and if I was to do it again I would use Greg in a heartbeat. You will not be disappointed with the quality of the work or with the person you deal with. I wish every contractor was like Greg.

– Jeffrey, Google

Choosing a concrete contractor in Calgary

Before hiring any home improvement company to work on your home, you should always do your research. They should have experience, proper credentials, and an excellent reputation. Your research should include checking for provincial business licensing, insurance, and WCB coverage. In addition, look for companies with an affiliation or membership with third-party organizations. This affiliation ensures they are committed to upholding preset industry standards.

When you hire a Renovation Certified concrete contractor in Calgary, background checks have been taken care of. We hire a third-party organization to run extensive legal and financial background checks. Additionally, all companies in our directory have produced proof of licensing, insurance, and WCB coverage. The third party continues to monitor the companies to ensure they meet our high standards now and in the future.

Hire a RenovationFind Certified stucco contractor in Calgary today! 

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RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance.  It increases consumer confidence in your business, giving you an edge over your competition while validating you as the best.
More than an online directory, we are Canada’s fastest growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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

Three benefits of hiring trustworthy general contractors in Calgary

Are you thinking about a bathroom renovation or upgrading your kitchen? Perhaps you’re interested in a complete basement renovation but don’t know where to start. Considering a renovation can feel unfamiliar and sometimes stressful. That’s why hiring an experienced, reputable and trustworthy general contractor in Calgary is essential.

Work in partnership

When you work with Straightline Contracting, you’ll benefit from their expertise, experience, and resources. They view their client relationships as partnerships. That means they work closely with you to create a design for your renovation that meets all your goals. They are also there to ease any concerns and answer questions you might have throughout the process. Honest and reputable general contractors in Calgary like Straightline Contracting ensure you’re comfortable from start to finish and that you’re satisfied with the results.

Your project is in capable hands

Whether you’re renovating the main floor or building a new deck, a Red Seal Journeyman Carpenter will oversee your entire project. Straightline Contracting has years of practical experience in the construction industry, including extensive project management experience. You can rest easy knowing your home project and investment are in excellent hands. Read more reasons to hire a general contractor for your home renovation.

Reduce stress and the mess

It’s true that home renovations are not always clean and tidy. Sometimes, having a home under construction can be inconvenient, disruptive, and a little messy. However, Straightline Contracting strives to reduce stress, disruptions, and mess daily. They do so by working hard to complete the job efficiently and on time. In addition, their team always maintains a clean and tidy workspace to minimize inconveniences to your daily life.

These Calgary general contractors work diligently to ensure things run smoothly. Straightline understands that it is your home they’re working in. Because they consider you a partner and friend, they aim to minimize disruption as much as possible.

General Contractors in Calgary

Straightline Contracting is a full-service home renovation and home builder that serves Calgary and the surrounding areas. They bring 30 years of construction experience to your home project. For decades they’ve remained committed to customer service, quality workmanship and your satisfaction.

Straightline Contracting offers a vast range of renovation and construction services for residential and commercial clients. From kitchen, bathroom, and basement renovations to new home construction, additions, decks, and garages – you’ll have peace of mind knowing your project is in skillful and competent hands.

Get started on your home project with an experienced contractor you can trust.

Contact Straightline Contracting!

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

3 common commercial construction projects

Calgary commercial building projects can significantly differ from building to building. While specific components of the projects will be similar, each job will require particular expertise to ensure optimal results.

Hiring a commercial construction Calgary contractor with experience in various building types will ensure quality, value, and return on investment. Greenstone Construction in Calgary is a commercial construction contractor with a proven reputation for sustainable, well-designed, high-quality construction buildings.

Here are three commercial construction projects they can help you with:

Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings can house offices, retail stores, restaurants, childcare facilities, and many other commercial businesses. Having an experienced and knowledgeable commercial contractor on your team will ensure that your project runs on time and within budget.

Whether building from the ground up or renovating an existing workspace, Greenstone Construction can help you achieve your goals. Clear communication, uncompromised quality work, and in-depth project management will provide exceptional results for your project.

Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare facilities include hospitals, medical clinics, and other health care services offices. Health care facilities are often a vital community hub. In addition, unique design and construction requirements must be considered to meet challenges. For example, the building design must ensure function and quality patient care.

Greenstone Construction has experience with health care facility renovations, new construction projects, and multi-site Calgary construction projects. They have the capacity, knowledge, and expertise to manage your large-scale project from start to finish.

Mixed-use Buildings

Mixed-use buildings are growing in popularity, especially in urban areas. These buildings often combine commercial, healthcare, and hospitality businesses with residential spaces. Mixed-use properties accommodate the community by providing spaces where people can live, work, socialize, and play. Check out how these Calgary communities have embraced mixed-use spaces.

Greenstone Construction has expertise in residential, healthcare, hospitality and commercial construction projects. Our experienced designers, contractors, and Calgary construction workers will ensure quality and valuable results in your building project. As a result, your building will attract tenants and investors and foster business growth.

Commercial Construction Contractors in Calgary

Greenstone Construction has served Calgary and the surrounding areas since 2014. They offer exceptional communication, thoughtful designs, and professional project management for a range of commercial projects. In addition, you can expect transparency, shorter and more efficient construction timelines, and high-quality work. They aim to provide clients and the Calgary construction industry with finished projects that add value and provide a return on investment.

If you’re planning a commercial construction project, contact Greenstone Construction.

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

Painting Tools — How to Use and Care for Them

Painting is one of the most essential DIY jobs – with a quick brushstroke and your favourite paint colour, you can completely change the look of a room (or re-touch any chipped areas to refresh a space!).

At the Handy Squad, we have painted many homes and commercial spaces in London – from painting front doors to painting offices spaces and even painting home exteriors… we sure know a thing or two about painting. One of the things we can all agree on is the importance of caring for your painting tools.

Whether you use paint brushes or prefer paint rollers, it is essential to look after your tools and maintain them properly to ensure these continue to work as they should for many years to come.

Paint Brushes

Still the default painting tool, brushes come in many types and depend partly on what you’re willing to pay. You can make do with perfectly adequate cheap brushes which you discard after use. On the other hand, reusable brushes go up to professional quality, and the best synthetic fibres both give a finer finish and don’t shed bristles.

Using water-based paint.

The way you clean and store brushes depend on the paint you’ve been using. If it’s water-based, just clean them with water and wrap them in any of the various substances from lint-free cloth to foil.

Using oil-based or solvent-based paint.

If you’re using oil-based or solvent-based paint, brushes should be stored immersed in the recommended cleaning fluid, ensuring the bristles aren’t resting on the bottom of the container. You can use an improvised container or buy a purpose-made cleaning tub, which will come with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Paint Rollers

The quickest and most efficient way to cover large surfaces is to use a roller, although you’ll still need brushes for edges and corners. It’s also worth remembering that rolled coats are thinner than if you use brushes, so you’ll need more of them.

If you’re using a roller, you need to buy trays of non-drip emulsion. The type of roller sleeve you use will determine the finish — short-pile for a smooth surface, for instance, or shaggy sheepskin for texture.

Whichever you use, when you’ve coated the roller with paint, roll it across the tray’s ribbed surface to ensure a smooth covering. To get a smooth blend at the edges, always work your way back to the area you’ve covered when you start with a newly charged roller.

Paint Pads

Paint pads, rectangular bonded fibres with a foam back that allows for flexibility, are ideal if you want to cover a large area with liquid paint. The paint tray that comes with them has a built-in roller, allowing you to remove excess paint. With the pad flat against the wall, gently scrub it from the corner, painting strips around four-time the pad’s width.

Paint Pods

This is a power painting tool, allowing the paint to feed through from the paint pack to a roller attachment. It also has a triangular brush for painting the edges. It has a self-cleaning cycle, clearly explained in the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you want to free yourself from the job of painting and are looking for “painters and decorators near me“,  it’s time to call the Squad. Our experienced team of painters and decorators in London will be able to paint kitchen cupboards, repair cracks in wallshang wallpaper and complete many other tasks to uplift the look of your property. Wait no further – contact us today and let us know how we can help! Alternatively, request a booking by filling our online form.

The post Painting Tools — How to Use and Care for Them appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

How to fix a leaking tap

Leaky taps might not seem like a big deal at first. However, when left unchecked or repaired, leaking taps may lead to worse water damage and more costly repairs. Plus, leaking taps are not pleasant… they waste water, increase bills, stain skins and the sound “drip, drip, drip” can keep you up at night.

It’s time to roll your sleeves up and repair the tap. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, don’t have the time or simply would prefer to leave it to the professionals, the Squad can help. At the Handy Squad, our team of London plumbers will be able to repair taps, repair leaks and more. So, if you have a leaking tap and need an extra pair of hands – get in touch.

Materials.

  • Screwdriver
  • Adjustable spanner
  • Washer

Step by step instructions.

Step 1 – Turn off the isolation ball valve on the pipe under the sink. Turn it off by turning the screw head of the isolation tap with a screwdriver. Some isolation valves have a handle. Whether it is a screw head or a handle, the isolation valve should be turned so it is at a right angle (horizontal) to the flow of the pipe. A parallel position (or vertical) means on.

Note: This applies to both cold taps and hot taps. We recommend turning the isolation valve off for both taps and then drain the remaining water from the taps.

In case you do not have an isolation valve, you will have to switch off the external water supply and then drain the remaining water.

Step 2 – Let the water drain completely. Turn on the tap to let the remaining water drain.

Step 3 – Remove the tap head and undo the headgear nut with an adjustable spanner.

Step 4 – Unscrew the nut and, then, remove the headgear assembly.

Step 5 – Replace the washer with a brand-new one and re-assemble the headgear the same way you disassembled it.

Step 6 – Turn on the isolation valve and test the tap.

 

 

Disclaimer

At the Handy Squad, we strongly advise that you always take safety precautions into consideration when undertaking a DIY project. We also strongly suggest that you closely read and follow the instructions, that are provided by the manufacturer, of any building materials, products or tools you use for your projects.

Our aim is to provide you with clear and correct instructions, so that you can easily complete any DIY project you desire. However, please note that the information we provide should only be used as a guideline and that some information within the text may not be entirely accurate.

When using our articles for information and advice, please note that it is your own responsibility to determine whether you are capable of undertaking and executing the task you wish to complete.

Before starting a DIY task, it is essential that you inform yourself of any existing building, gas, water and electrical works regulations. If you were to have any further concerns, we recommend that you complete additional research and/or contact the necessary professional body.

We also strongly recommend that a qualified tradesperson completes the relevant safety tests and checks on any DIY work you have completed.

The post How to fix a leaking tap appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Why hire a professional to jet wash a patio

Whether you want to get ready for the first barbecue of the year by making your outdoor space look as good as possible or have simply noticed that the patio is looking dull and grubby – it’s time for a jet wash.

You might be inclined to do it yourself. You think that all you have to do is purchase a pressure washer, any washing chemicals needed and put time aside during your weekend to do it. It looks easy, why wouldn’t you be able to do it? You forget that you will get all dirty, wet and spend the whole day trying to get your patio looking good and in the end… it doesn’t look as good as you wish. Is it worth it?

Related: When to jet wash a patio?

Enjoy your weekend and hire a professional to jet wash your patio instead. Put your feet up, have your favourite drink and take your mind off of all the stresses you have whilst a professional is taking care of your patio. That sounds much better, right? But that’s not all. Here’s why you should hire a professional to complete jet washing services.

Saves money.

When you put together all the costs of pressure washing your patio, it might be cheaper to hire a professional who already has all the tools necessary to complete the job. If you end up buying a pressure washer – will it be a good investment? Will you use it enough?

Yes, you could rent a pressure washer to cut down costs but do you have the time to jet wash your whole patio or the skills to do it as well as a professional would?

It’s convenient.

Hiring a professional is convenient. It will save you time and energy. No more having to free up your whole weekend to complete a single house chore – leave it to the pros and make the most out of your weekend.

Prevents damage.

When working with high pressure, it is essential to use it with care. Plus, different surfaces will require different techniques as well as more or less pressure. If you do it yourself, you might end up breaking bits of old patio slabs or even getting rid of the grouting, meaning you will have to also regrout your patio after.

Better result.

Pressure washing can be tricky but professionals have done it countless times. So, they know how to do it (and do it well!). No matter how large your patio surface is or the type of surface, professionals will be able to achieve the best result possible and make your patio look brand-new once again.

If you are looking for “jet wash near me” or “jet washing services near me”, search no further than the Handy Squad. We offer a variety of jet washing services, from jet washing paving stones to jet washing stone steps and more. Our professional team can also jet wash garden furniture and, to give your patio a fresh look, we can also repoint patio slabs.

Contact our team today and let us know how we can help. Give us a call on 0800-0 12 12 12. Want to call from outside the UK? Call 020 7384 5160. Alternatively, request a free quote by filling our online booking form.

The post Why hire a professional to jet wash a patio appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Maintain your AC during the summer

Typically, air conditioner maintenance focuses on preparing your AC unit for the summer and ensuring things are in working order. While that is important, it needs just as much care and upkeep throughout the summer. When the unit is running full time, it needs regular attention to ensure it stays running efficiently. 

Hydro-Flo Plumbing & Heating in Edmonton is a professional, full-service HVAC company that offers air conditioner installation and repairs. They share how to continue maintaining your AC over the summer months:

Regularly change the filter

Changing the air filter is one of the first steps to getting your AC ready for the summer. After you do, mark your calendar to keep track so you can change the filter in another 30 days. Regularly changing the filter prevents the unit from working harder than it has to and keeps the indoor air cleaner. Also, if you have pets or notice more pollen or dust in the air, consider changing the filter more often.

Keep it clear

A clean AC unit is essential for efficient airflow and lower monthly bills. Like that first filter change, clearing away debris or encroaching plants is part of preparing your AC for the summer. Then, throughout the summer, keep an eye out for any new growth or in case debris collects around the unit. When the air conditioner becomes blocked, it affects the airflow of the unit. Blocked or uneven airflow creates hot or cold spots around the home, and it can increase your energy bill. 

Make sure it stays clean

After a long winter, clearing off your AC is just the first step in maintaining your unit. After any summer storms, a windy day or regularly throughout the summer, keep the unit clean—specifically, the compressor fins. The fins are located on the outdoor section of an air conditioner. Using a water hose with moderate pressure and spraying the unit will wash away any grime or buildup. These fins play a key role in helping heat move away from the air conditioner and disperse faster. If you aren’t comfortable cleaning the unit yourself, call a professional and leave it to them.

Get a professional tune-up

If you’re running the AC almost constantly during the summer, don’t wait until next spring to get a professional tune-up. Even with regular maintenance and care during the summer, it’s worth getting it checked by a professional. Any minor issues that have crept up or lowered efficiency will be caught and repaired. Then, your AC will run at full efficiency from the start to the end of summer.

Air Conditioning in Edmonton

Hydro-Flo Plumbing & Heating has been providing trusted and quality plumbing services since 2006. Their team offers help with scheduled or emergency plumbing, heating, installation, and repair services. From residential homes to high rises, they will ensure your HVAC system is running safely, smoothly, and efficiently. 

Contact Hydro-Flo Plumbing & Heating today!

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