Author: admin

When the kids move out, it’s a big change—emotionally and practically. Suddenly, the bedroom that once overflowed with laundry, sports gear, and homework is sitting quietly and unused. While it can be bittersweet, this new chapter is also an opportunity. That extra space can become a cozy retreat, functional office, or creative studio. With a few simple upgrades, empty nesters can transform an unused room into something that truly adds value to their home and lifestyle.

Step One: Give It a Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the easiest ways to breathe new life into an empty room is with a fresh coat of paint. Color remarkably affects mood, and choosing the right shade can instantly shift the room’s purpose.

Soft blues and sage greens create a focused atmosphere for a calming home office. Warm yellows and light corals inspire energy for a craft room or creative space. Even a neutral palette — warm beiges, greys, or off-whites—can make the room feel clean, inviting, and ready for its next role.

Professional painters from Handyman Connection can help ensure a flawless finish, saving you from the hassle of taping, edging, and dealing with streaks. The transformation happens quickly, but the fresh, vibrant feel will last for years.

Step Two: Brighten Things Up with New Lighting

Lighting sets the tone for any room, and upgrading it is an easy way to redefine the space. Consider installing a new ceiling fan with integrated lighting if the room’s current fixture feels dated or dim. This not only modernizes the look but also improves airflow, making the space more comfortable year-round.

For a reading nook or guest bedroom, a stylish ceiling light paired with wall sconces or a floor lamp creates both functionality and ambience. For a hobby room or office, bright, adjustable lighting helps reduce eye strain while giving the space a polished feel.

The electricians and installation pros at Handyman Connection can swap out old fixtures safely, ensure proper wiring, and even recommend energy-efficient options that save on utility bills.

Step Three: Think About Functionality

Before you buy new furniture or décor, decide how you want to use the space. Do you want a quiet home library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves? A fully equipped home office with a built-in desk? Maybe a serene yoga and meditation room with soft rugs and minimal clutter?

If you’re not sure, start small. Move in one or two pieces of furniture and live with them for a week. This helps you see what feels natural and what might be missing. Handyman Connection’s carpentry team can help with built-ins, shelving, or storage solutions that maximize space and keep the room organized.

Step Four: Upgrade the Details

Small details make a big impact. Consider replacing outdated door handles, adding crown molding, or upgrading baseboards. These subtle changes elevate the room’s overall style without requiring a full remodel.

Window treatments are another easy update — fresh curtains or modern blinds can completely change the way light filters into the space. If you want to go the extra mile, a statement wall with wallpaper or decorative paneling creates a beautiful focal point.

Handyman Connection can help with both the big and small upgrades, ensuring every detail feels intentional and well-crafted.

Step Five: Make It Yours

Once the significant changes are complete, it’s time for the fun part—personalizing the space. Bring in family photos, travel souvenirs, or artwork you love. Add cozy throw blankets, a plush area rug, and greenery to make the room warm and lived-in.

The best part? This space is entirely yours now. No more negotiating over wall posters or laundry piles—just a room designed to reflect your personality, hobbies, and comfort.

A Fresh Start for a New Chapter

Reclaiming an empty room after the kids move out is about more than just home improvement — it’s about creating a space that supports your lifestyle and brings you joy. Whether it’s as simple as a fresh coat of paint or as involved as a complete lighting and storage upgrade, Handyman Connection is here to help make your vision a reality.

Let our skilled team handle the painting, ceiling fan installation, and finishing touches so you can enjoy your new space sooner. Contact your local Handyman Connection today to get started on turning that empty room into one of your favorite places in the house.

The post Reclaiming the Empty Room: Fresh Ideas for Empty Nesters appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Reliable, friendly and quality renovation services in Calgary!

BAM Builds (formerly BAM! Renovation and Construction)  is a local company that specializes in residential renovations, tenant improvements and commercial builds. They also offer concrete services, landscaping and project management services. This reliable company has completed thousands of projects and has the skills and experience to take your project from concept to completion.

In addition, BAM pays close attention to detail and has strong business ethics and integrity. They’ll walk with you through every stage of the renovation, ensuring it is completed with quality, beauty and functionality in mind. They treat every project as their own, ensuring your dreams for your home or business become a reality.

Whether you want to start a major commercial construction building project or renovate your home’s bathroom, the expert team at BAM can help. Check out their website to learn more about their many services.

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

Whether you’re short on storage or looking to enhance your home’s visual appeal, carpentry upgrades offer practical and attractive solutions. From built-in shelves to bespoke furniture, expert carpentry can help you make the most of your space while adding lasting value. At Handy Squad, our professional carpenters carry out a wide range of projects across London, all designed to improve how your home works and looks. 

Here are some of the top carpentry projects to consider if you’re looking to refresh or refine your living space. 

1. Built-In Storage Solutions

One of the most popular carpentry upgrades is built-in storage. From fitted wardrobes and under-stair cabinets to alcove shelving, custom-built units maximise space and reduce clutter. 

Unlike flat-pack furniture, built-in options are designed specifically for your home’s dimensions, making them ideal for awkward corners or tight spaces. They can be finished to match your décor for a seamless, integrated look. 

2. Bespoke Shelving

Floating shelves, bookcases, or wall-mounted storage units not only create useful space but also act as visual features in any room. Whether you’re displaying books, ornaments, or plants, custom shelving adds personality while keeping things organised. 

Our carpenters can design and install shelving that suits both your needs and your home’s existing style, from modern minimalism to traditional woodwork. 

3. Door Hanging and Repairs

Old or damaged doors can detract from your home’s appearance and reduce energy efficiency. Our team can fit new internal or external doors, repair sticking or misaligned doors, and update handles, hinges, or locks. 

Whether you need something sleek and modern or more classic in design, we can ensure the doors throughout your home are properly installed and functioning smoothly. 

4. Flooring Installation and Repairs

Your flooring takes daily wear and tear, and a professional carpentry upgrade can make a huge difference. Whether you’re installing engineered wood, solid timber flooring, or laminate, our carpenters can ensure a precise, high-quality finish. We also carry out repairs to creaky boards, damaged planks, or uneven sections to restore the look and feel of your flooring. A beautifully fitted floor improves comfort, increases property value, and ties the whole room together. 

5. Window Seats and Custom Furniture

Looking for a standout feature? A bespoke window seat or piece of fitted furniture can transform an empty area into a comfortable or functional spot. Our carpenters can design units that fit perfectly into your space, combining storage, seating, and style. 

Custom carpentry is especially useful in small London flats where every inch counts. 

Ready to Transform Your Space? 

From simple repairs to full bespoke installations, the Handy Squad’s professional carpenters are here to help you get the most from your home. All work is completed to a high standard, with minimal disruption and lasting results. 

Visit our Carpentry Services page to learn more or book a carpenter today by calling 0800-0-12-12-12 or by simply filling out our online booking form. 

The post Top Carpentry Projects to Improve Your Home’s Function and Style appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Small tasks around the home often get overlooked, until they become bigger, more costly issues. That dripping tap, wobbly shelf, or peeling sealant might seem minor, but over time these things can affect both the comfort and value of your home. Fortunately, with the help of Handy Squad’s odd jobs service, these quick fixes can be sorted efficiently and professionally. 

If you’re looking for high-impact improvements that don’t take much time, here are a few odd jobs worth tackling today. 

1. Fixing Loose Door Handles and Hinges

A wobbly door handle or creaky hinge may not seem urgent, but it’s an easy job that makes daily life smoother. Left unchecked, loose fixtures can worsen and damage the door itself. Our team can quickly secure or replace handles, hinges, and latches, making your doors operate like new again. 

2. Resealing Bathrooms and Kitchens

Over time, the silicone sealant around sinks, baths, and showers can discolour or peel. Not only is this unsightly, but it can lead to water leaks and mould. Resealing these areas is a quick task that immediately refreshes your bathroom or kitchen and helps prevent more serious issues down the line. 

3. Hanging Pictures, Mirrors, and Curtains

You don’t need to risk misaligned nails or cracked plaster. Our team can hang items neatly and securely whether it’s a gallery wall, a heavy mirror, or a new curtain rail. It’s a small job that can make a huge difference to the feel and finish of your space. 

4. Assembling Flat-Pack Furniture

Got a flat-pack still sitting in the box? We can help. From bookcases to beds, our team is experienced in quick, safe furniture assembly, saving you time and frustration, while ensuring the final result is sturdy and properly aligned. 

5. Fitting Shelves and Storage Solutions

Shelves are a great way to maximise space, especially in smaller homes. We can install floating shelves, fix storage units to walls, or build custom solutions to suit your needs. These small changes can drastically improve both organisation and aesthetics. 

6. Cable Tidying and Bracket Fixing

Messy cables not only look untidy but can also be a trip hazard. We offer cable tidying and can safely fix brackets for TVs, routers, or shelving. It’s a great way to keep things secure and visually clean, especially in shared or high-traffic areas. 

Why Choose Handy Squad? 

At Handy Squad, our team of trained handymen take pride in tackling the tasks others overlook. We work across London, handling a wide range of odd jobs quickly and to a high standard. Whether it’s something minor or part of a larger to-do list, we’re here to help. 

Book Your Odd Jobs Today 

Don’t let small fixes pile up. Ticking off those odd jobs now can improve your home’s appearance, safety, and value. Visit our Odd Jobs Services page to book a professional handyman today or book a Handy Man today by calling 0800-0-12-12-12 or by simply filling out our online booking form.  

The post Quick Fixes That Make a Big Impact: Odd Jobs Worth Doing Today appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

As warmer days are here, there’s nothing better than spending time outdoors, whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a BBQ, or simply relaxing in the garden. But after months of rain, frost, and grime, your garden furniture may be looking worse for wear. The quickest and most effective way to bring it back to life? A professional jet wash.  

At Handy Squad, we offer expert jet washing services across London, helping homeowners refresh patios, driveways, and most importantly, garden furniture so outdoor spaces are ready to be enjoyed again. 

Why Jet Wash Garden Furniture? 

Over time, outdoor furniture collects dirt, algae, bird droppings, mildew, and moss, especially during the autumn and winter months. These not only look unsightly but can also damage wood and metal surfaces if left untreated. 

Jet washing garden furniture cuts through this build-up far more effectively than hand scrubbing. With the right pressure settings, our team can clean thoroughly without damaging materials, making your tables, chairs, benches, or loungers look almost new again. 

Suitable for All Types of Outdoor Furniture 

Different materials require different techniques, and our team is trained to clean: 

• Wooden garden furniture – We remove surface grime while preserving the wood’s finish. For older pieces, jet washing can also prepare the surface for re-oiling or sealing. 

• Metal furniture – Our method safely removes rust, flaking paint, and dirt without scratching or denting. 

• Plastic or rattan sets – Pressure washing clears mildew and ground-in stains from textured surfaces and tight corners with ease. 

Whether you’ve got a simple bench or a full outdoor dining set, jet washing is a safe and effective way to revitalise it. 

A Quick, Cost-Effective Garden Makeover 

Replacing weather-worn furniture can be expensive but jet washing is a fast and budget-friendly alternative. In just one visit, we can help restore the appearance of your furniture and improve the overall look of your garden or patio. 

It’s also a great idea if you’re planning a garden party, hosting guests, or staging your home for sale. Clean furniture instantly makes your space look cared for and inviting. 

Let Handy Squad Handle It 

While it’s tempting to try DIY pressure washing, using the wrong equipment or technique can lead to splintering wood, peeling paint, or gouged surfaces. At Handy Squad, we use professional-grade equipment and adjust pressure settings to suit each item, ensuring effective cleaning without causing damage. 

We also clean up after ourselves, so you’re left with a spotless setup and no mess to worry about. 

Book Your Jet Wash Today 

Don’t let dirty garden furniture ruin your outdoor enjoyment this summer. Contact Handy Squad today  by calling 0800-0-12-12-12 or by simply filling out our online booking form.  and bring your garden seating, tables, and accessories back to life, just in time for the sunshine. 

The post How to Refresh Garden Furniture with a Jet Wash appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Stop Ants at the Source with Smart Home Repairs

If you’re seeing ants crawling across your kitchen counters or trailing near doorways, you’re not alone. Ant infestations are one of the most common pest issues homeowners face—especially in warmer months. While traps and sprays may offer short-term relief, the best way to keep ants out of your home is by addressing the root causes: access points, moisture, and structural vulnerabilities.

At Handyman Connection, we provide expert home maintenance and repair services that help homeowners across the U.S. create stronger, more pest-resistant homes. From weatherproofing and door upgrades to caulking and leak repairs, our experienced team offers long-term solutions that stop ant invasions before they start.

Upgrade Your Doors: A Smart First Step in Ant Prevention

One of the most common ways ants enter your home is through gaps and cracks around exterior doors. Over time, wooden doors may warp or shift, creating small entry points that ants can easily exploit.

If you’ve tried ant traps near doorways with no luck, it might be time to upgrade. Our carpentry experts can install new doors or add proper door sweeps, thresholds, and weather seals to eliminate those hidden gaps. Even minor adjustments can block an entire colony from gaining access to your home. It’s a simple fix with major impact.

Weatherproofing: Seal the Cracks That Attract Ants

Most homeowners think of weatherproofing as a way to improve energy efficiency—and it does—but sealing your home against the elements also helps keep ants and other pests out. Tiny cracks in siding, foundations, window frames, and eaves offer an open invitation for ants to sneak in.

Our professional weatherproofing services include inspecting your home’s vulnerable areas and sealing them with long-lasting materials like foam, sealant, and weatherstripping. These small improvements can protect your home from temperature fluctuations and uninvited insects. Plus, you’ll likely see a drop in your energy bills.

Caulking: Seal Interior Gaps to Keep Ants Out

Ants don’t just invade from the outside—they find their way in through gaps around sinks, counters, baseboards, and plumbing fixtures. Old or missing caulking is one of the biggest culprits behind recurring ant problems.

At Handyman Connection, our professional home repair experts specialize in interior and exterior caulking services. We apply high-quality, pest-resistant caulk in critical areas around your home to close off those hidden gaps. Not only does this help stop ants, but it also improves the overall appearance and cleanliness of your space.

Repair Leaks and Eliminate Moisture Sources

Ants love moisture. Even a small plumbing leak can attract them to a specific area of your home. Leaky faucets, wet cabinets, dripping pipes, or damp basements create the ideal environment for ants to nest and forage.

Our plumbing services team can help you identify and repair leaks quickly and effectively. Whether it’s a loose pipe under your sink or a damaged outdoor spigot, fixing moisture issues is essential to preventing ant infestations. A dry home is a pest-free home.

Let Handyman Connection Help Keep Ants Out—for Good

If you’ve tried every DIY trick and still find yourself battling ants, it’s time to take a smarter approach. Ant prevention isn’t just about pest control—it’s about proper home maintenance. Sealing gaps, fixing leaks, and upgrading structural elements are all highly effective ways to keep your home ant-free.

With expert carpentry, caulking, weatherproofing, and leak repair services, Handyman Connection is your go-to team for long-lasting ant control solutions. Our professional handymen are trained to spot vulnerabilities and make fast, effective repairs that protect your home from pests year-round.

Ready to stop ants in their tracks?
Contact your local Handyman Connection today by Requesting an Estimate Online to schedule your home assessment. Let us help you seal, repair, and upgrade your space for a cleaner, drier, and pest-free home.

The post How to Keep Ants Out of Your Home: Proven Fixes from Home Repair Pros appeared first on Handyman Connection.

If you’re planning a home renovation, you’ve probably thought about how long the actual work will take—but what about everything that happens before demo day?

From gathering multiple quotes and reviewing scopes of work to finalizing designs and ordering materials, the entire process takes longer than most homeowners expect. Understanding the full timeline—from your first outreach to the final walkthrough—can help you plan smarter and avoid stress.

Below, we break down common renovation timelines for popular projects, including key phases before work begins, and the biggest reasons projects get delayed.

🛁 Bathroom Renovation

👩‍🍳 Ready to cook in a kitchen you love? [Post your kitchen remodel project] and get matched with experienced renovators.

🏗️ Need more space without moving? [Post your home addition project] and get insights from pros in your area.

💡 Real Talk: Why Projects Get Delayed

Even the best-planned projects hit snags. The most common causes of delays include:

• Quote back-and-forth: Comparing apples-to-oranges scopes takes time

• Material delays: Some items (like custom cabinets or windows) have long lead times

• Permits: Some cities can take weeks just to review your application

• Change orders: Changing your mind mid-project can stall progress

• Contractor backlog: Good pros are often booked out weeks—or months

✅ Pro Tips for Staying on Track

• Request multiple quotes early and clarify what’s included

• Be decisive—slow approvals = slow project

• Ask about timelines and permit needs before signing

• Build in buffer time (and budget) for surprises

• Post your project early to get on contractor schedules

📣 Ready to Get Started?

The sooner you get your quotes, the sooner you can start planning. Post your project today and we’ll send it out to top-rated local contractors who can help bring it to life.

👉 [Post My Project Now]

Disclaimer: The timelines provided in this guide are general estimates based on typical renovation scenarios. Actual project durations may vary depending on contractor availability, permitting processes, material lead times, weather conditions, scope changes, and unforeseen issues. We are not responsible for any discrepancies between these estimates and the actual timeline of your renovation project.

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

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

Planting on the Prairies: How to Choose, Place, and Care for Plants That Thrive

While we live within a vast ecosystem known as the prairie, landscape designers in Alberta and the Canadian Prairies encounter an incredible variety of soil types, microclimates, and site conditions. At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., our approach to planting is always customized. Here’s how we consider every detail to create thriving, sustainable, and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Why We Plant

Plants do far more than beautify your yard. Strategic planting supports:

What We Plant

We focus on species that can handle harsh prairie climates and varied soil conditions:

• Plants that thrive in Zones 1, 2, and 3

• Species adapted to sand, loam, or clay soil

• Combinations that look great and work well together

• Plants with cultural or healing significance

• Food-producing options like herbs, fruit bushes, and native edibles

Whether you’re designing a healing garden, pollinator patch, or edible landscape, we help you choose species that will flourish with minimal maintenance.

When We Plant

Timing matters for success:

• Perennials, shrubs, and trees can be planted as soon as the ground is diggable

• Annuals are often seeded early or transplanted in late June, once frost risk passes

How We Plant

Proper planting techniques ensure long-term health and growth:

• Soak plants before planting

• Fill the hole with water and backfill slowly

• Water deeply, but only as needed (check soil 4–6 inches down)

• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

• Stake trees to protect them from prairie winds

Where We Plant

• Traditionally, planting has been concentrated around foundation lines and fence edges

• Today, Fire Smart landscaping guidelines in rural or outlying areas encourage planting farther from buildings and using low-flammability plant varieties

EarthWorm landscape designers understand the nuances of prairie planting—from urban yards to rural acreages. We create outdoor environments that are resilient, regenerative, and rooted in local ecology. Book your perfect garden solution today!

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

4 Steps to Making Good Steps

Most people take steps for granted—until they stumble on poorly built ones. Whether it’s in your front yard, garden, or multi-level deck, properly designed landscape steps are essential for comfort, safety, and style. Here are four key practices EarthWorm Landscape Design Co. follows to ensure your outdoor steps are both functional and flawless.

1. Avoid Common “Danger Shapes”

Poorly shaped steps cause countless falls. Here’s what to watch out for:

• The Single Step: Common on front sidewalks or multi-level decks, a lone step often disappears in daylight or shadows. It becomes a hidden hazard during Hallowe’en and other events. If you must have one, add extra lighting, a handrail, or our go-to solution: a gritty, light-colored strip of paint across the top riser.

• The Stage Step: Found on porches or decks, this step ends abruptly and lacks a handrail—making it invisible from above. Always ensure steps are full-width and well-lit.

• The Wedge Step: Stylish but risky. If the narrow end of a step is too sharp, there’s no room to land your foot safely. Ensure the inside tread is at least 12 inches wide to avoid slips.

2. Use the Ergonomic Formula

Proper step sizing isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort. Use the ergonomic formula to guide your design:

(2 × Riser Height) + Tread Depth = 28 inches

This formula ensures that your garden stairs or patio steps feel natural underfoot, regardless of age or mobility level.

3. Keep Every Step Consistent

One of the most common trip hazards? A step that’s just slightly off in height—especially where stairs meet the ground.

Do the math and make all risers equal. If the ground has settled and caused a taller bottom step, regrade or reset it. Even half an inch of difference can throw off a person’s stride.

4. Know Your Building Codes

Before building stairs, check local regulations for:

Codes exist for a reason—they protect you and your guests from preventable accidents. And remember: in cold climates, steps are often safer than ramps, which can become slippery from frost.

At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., we specialize in step design that blends safety, ergonomics, and visual appeal. The best outdoor stairs are the ones you never notice—because they feel so natural to use. Book your perfect landscape solution today!

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