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This spring, make the most of the nice weather by upgrading your yard. When you create an outdoor area that’s enjoyable to be in, you maximize your property’s amount of liveable space. Fortunately, doing so can be as simple as making a few updates and additions.

Aaron Contracting Inc in Calgary has 15 years of professional landscaping and construction experience. Furthermore, their first priority is the satisfaction of their customers. They offer five ideas to improve your yard this spring.

1. Add a deck 

Maximize your outdoor living space by installing a deck! Decks supply ample room to entertain friends and family in the fresh air. With the help of some outdoor furniture, potted plants, and lighting, you can create a beautiful space for socializing or relaxing. An outdoor area where you love to hang out helps you make the most of the good weather—while it lasts!

Consider a pergola or gazebo for some shade and protection from the elements. Aaron Contracting Inc. builds pergolas or decks to your specifications. They have a range of materials for you to choose from, such as vinyl, cedar, and composite.

2. Fix the fence

A faded or broken fence can ruin the aesthetic of your yard. Fixing or replacing your derelict fence improves the entire yard and makes it a more enjoyable place to be. Alternatively, you might not even have a fence yet! Fences are fantastic for adding privacy and creating a safe space for your family. The increased sense of security alone is a good reason to install a fence. However, they also block noise, wind, and unsightly views.

3. Plant some trees

Trees provide shade, add value to your property, and are visually beautiful. Additionally, adding trees to your yard creates the perfect habitat for birds, offers natural shade, and produces fresh, clean air.

When choosing trees, consider their mature size, growth rate, lifespan, tree shape, preferred climate, and resistance to storms and disease. Pick trees that can withstand our winter weather and storms. Otherwise, you could have a messy and expensive cleanup on your hands.

4. Replace the grass

Is your grass looking more dead than green? Depending on the damage, it might be better to start over. Fresh sod installation gives you the opportunity for a perfect lawn.

If keeping a healthy lawn is a battle you’re struggling to win, contact Aaron Contracting Inc for your lawn needs. They offer weekly mowing, weed control, fertilization, and seasonal cleanups.

5. Or switch to artificial turf

Alternatively, you may want to do away with having to mow altogether. In that case, astroturf is an excellent option. With astroturf, you can enjoy the look of a green and healthy lawn without the accompanying maintenance. Aaron Contracting Inc provides artificial turf installations for your budget.

Landscapers in Calgary

Customer satisfaction is the top priority of Aaron Contracting Inc. No matter your project, they provide outstanding quality craftsmanship and customer service. When it comes to your landscaping projects, they always stand behind their work.

For landscaping maintenance and construction services, contact Aaron Contracting Inc!

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

A window replacement can be a significant investment, but it has an excellent return. Windows are a primary source of energy loss in a home year-round. ENERGY STAR states that up to 25% of your home’s total energy loss is through your windows. A window replacement will provide energy and costs savings.

Norden Seal Windows in Winnipeg offers high-quality, energy-efficient window replacements. Keep reading to learn the value of a window replacement.

High return on investment

Window replacements seem like a practical home improvement and perhaps not as visually appealing as other renovations. However, it has one of the highest ROI rates among home upgrades at nearly 70%. That means if you spend $10,000 on a window replacement, you can expect to add about $7,000 to the value of your home and recoup that at resale.

Factors that would impact your ROI include the type of windows you choose. For example, a standard slider window will cost less to install than a large bay window, but the ROI is about the same.

Long-term energy savings

The ROI of your window replacement doesn’t stop at resale value. An energy-efficient window upgrade will save you money on your heating and cooling bills every month. Over time, these savings could add up to the cost of your installation.

ENERGY STAR windows, for example, can save homeowners about 12% on total energy costs in cold climates like Winnipeg. That is why it’s worth investing in premium windows and opting for the higher-performing triple-paned models.

Improved curb appeal

Curb appeal also plays a role in your home’s resale value. A window and door replacement can enhance curb appeal and make a better first impression on buyers. In addition, buyers are attracted to homes that have already had significant green upgrades. Therefore, new windows are a huge selling point.

Rebates and incentives

To help improve your return further, you can take advantage of green home upgrade rebates and incentives. Efficiency Manitoba offers rebates on select ENERGY STAR-certified windows and doors for your home. They’re offering a $50 rebate for every eligible window and door you replace in your home. To qualify, the windows must be ENERGY STAR certified and at least triple-pane glass.

For doors, they must have the certification and, if they have windows, those windows need to be triple-pane. You can also get the rebate for sliding glass doors, as long as they’re also triple-pane.

Doors and Windows in Winnipeg

Noden Seal Windows builds stylish and efficient windows and doors suited to the Canadian climate. Their windows are made with innovative technology. They feature the new Cardinal Glass EndurlG spacer bar to deliver optimal and long-lasting thermal performance. To improve property value and home comfort, invest in a window replacement.

Contact Norden Seal Windows for a consultation!

Click To Find >>>>> Windows in Winnipeg.

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

Building a new fence around your property will add aesthetics, boost curb appeal, privacy and security. If you’re in the market for a new fence, you have several options! First Class Fencing in Calgary offers a range of residential, commercial, and agricultural fencing. They share three great options for your home’s fencing:

Wood Fencing

A wood fence is a classic choice and for a good reason. It is a sturdy and high-performing material that looks fantastic and gives you some options for cost. You can choose from various wood types at different price points and choose styles and colours. In addition, a wood fence is visually appealing, can improve security, and improve the value of your property.

Thanks to wood treatments, wood lumber options can be very durable. For example, treatments protect from rot, pests, and warping, ensuring the fence stays tough through all weather. Read more about recommended wood for fences.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing is becoming more popular with homeowners. These fences are eco-friendly made with 100% recycled materials. Vinyl is also weatherproof and requires virtually zero maintenance like waterproofing, painting, staining or applying pest treatments. Instead, all you need to do is spray it down with a garden hose or wipe it with a cloth if it gets dirty.

A vinyl fence will look great while offering security and privacy to your property. It’s resistant to rot, UV damage, fading, moisture, pests, and corrosion. Advancements in manufacturing have improved the look of vinyl fencing, and it’s available in a range of styles and colours.

Ornamental Fencing

Consider ornamental fencing if you’re looking for something a little different for your property. It offers elegant style and can stand up to the test of time. Also, these pretty fences are tough, and you’ll never have to worry about warping, rot, pests, or sun damage. Ornamental fencing is also corrosion-resistant but will need a coat of fresh paint every few years to keep it looking new.

A tall ornamental fence will keep out intruders as they’re very difficult to climb. In addition, this fencing type will enhance curb appeal and make a great first impression if you ever decide to sell.

Fence Contractors in Calgary

First Class Fencing is an established and reputable fence contractor serving Calgary and the surrounding areas. They provide commercial, residential, and rural property owners with functional, durable, and attractive fences. Their experienced team is driven by quality and will stand by their work with industry-leading warranties. If you’re looking for a credible company that can improve your property with a durable and attractive fence, look no further than First Class Fencing.

Contact them to start your fence project!

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

Hailstorms have caused widespread damage to homes and properties in Calgary. We had major storms in 2020 and 2021, with many homeowners still dealing with insurance claims and repairs. If you need roofing and siding repairs from a weather event or for any other reason, you must hire the right company for the job.

Shield Roofing & Exteriors offers exterior renovation services, including eavestroughs, fascia, soffit, siding, and roofing in Calgary. Here is their advice for hiring a reputable exterior renovation contractor:

Check for a business license and insurance

After a significant hailstorm, some contractors went door to door, offering siding and roof repair services to impacted homeowners. However, did you know that it is illegal to make door-to-door sales calls without a valid provincial business licence? In addition, they also cannot legally take a deposit for the work without a valid license.

Liability insurance protects you and your property from any accidents or damages that might occur on the job site. Without it, the courts can hold you responsible if those things occur. Workers Compensation Board coverage protects the workers, but they must be up-to-date with their premium payments. Otherwise, the property owner could be liable for insurance premiums owing in connection to any incidents that occurred on their property.

In many cases, unlicensed and uninsured contractors took advantage of a bad situation. Do not be left with poor quality work by an unqualified company. It is your right to ask to see proof of a business license, liability insurance, and WCB coverage.

Hire an experienced, local company with a proven reputation

After hailstorms in Calgary, many companies travel from out-of-town to earn siding and roofing repair and replacement jobs. Often, they’ll offer rock bottom prices, but then leave town after the job is complete. There have been stories of out-of-town companies disappearing and skipping out on warranty work.

Shield Roofing & Exteriors is a knowledgeable, experienced, and trustworthy exterior renovation and roofing contractor in Calgary. They have a solid, proven reputation in the community, with customers, and among industry peers. In addition, they offer assistance with hail damage insurance claims, including a free professional property inspection and report required by insurance companies.

Years of experience have given them a trained eye for inspecting storm damage. This extensive knowledge allows them to catch minor issues and recommend repairs or replacements with your best interest in mind. Plus, they offer a solid lifetime warranty on roof replacements and will always be there if you need them.

Hire Calgary roofers you can trust. Contact Shield Roofing & Exteriors today!

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

Spring is the perfect time to get your home feeling new and improved. If you’re more of a do-it-yourselfer, here are some tips that will make spring cleaning easy.

1. Clean inside cabinets: Sweep and vacuum, then wipe down the inside surfaces with a solution of baking soda and vinegar sprayed on to kill bacteria. Rinse well with water and dry thoroughly before using. This can be repeated monthly or quarterly until they’re spic-and-span clean as new.
2. Use spacious storage containers: An overfilled kitchen makes a messy room, so make use of every bit of space you have. If your cabinets are in good shape, stack deep containers on top of each other for added storage space.
3. Clean under the refrigerator: There might not be much dirt, but there can be bugs living under it, so use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the edges and sides. If mold is found under here, you can purchase sealant that goes on like paint that will eliminate the smell underneath it and stop all future issues.
4. Clean hard surfaces: Scrub away dirt from hard floors and counters; clean your bathroom mirror, sink, tubs, and tiles by wiping off with a damp rag. Be careful to not use abrasive cleaners in these areas because this could damage the porcelain or tile surfaces.
5. Maintaining outdoor items: Clean your outdoor patio furniture and sweep off the porch.
6. Clean under furniture: Before the dust bunnies jump into the bed, clean under furniture to remove all dirt and dust. A broom can be used to sweep under the sofa, under chairs and other furniture pieces.
7. Dust in corners: Most people don’t think about dusting in corners, but they are vital in bringing light into a room. It’s easy to find corners in a large room by going from one side to another until you find an empty corner; then take a clean cloth or rag and dust each side of the corner so that light enters every corner.
8. Fix up your grout: Concrete floors and tiles tend to get dirty over time because they aren’t naturally waterproof and water can get in through the grout, creating mold and mildew. If you have these kinds of floors, there are some products available which you mix with water that will solidify the grout so that it doesn’t absorb moisture anymore. These types of materials can be used to clean existing grout on ceramic tile, then sealed with a coating.
9. Clean mirrors: If a mirror is dirty, you can use glass cleaner on a washcloth. If it’s streaky, you can take a clean cloth and some rubbing alcohol and wipe it down. Tarnished mirrors can get cleaned with a paste made from baking soda and water.
10. Clean the showerhead: It may not seem like there is much to clean here, but too much buildup can cause slow water flow or even damage the seals inside. Use vinegar to make your showerhead sparkle.

Spring cleaning is a great way to give your home a fresh look while also improving how everything is organized. Don’t forget to sit back and relax after finishing your cleaning project. Enjoy the beautiful home you’ve helped maintain!

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact Handyman Connection to schedule a free home improvement estimate. Call or text your local office if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services.

The post Spring Cleaning Checklist for Your Home appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Building a deck addition will add function, value, and enjoyment to your home. A new deck will extend your living space, provide more opportunities to enjoy the yard, and add value to your home. Clement Contracting in Winnipeg is a contracting company specializing in decks and fences. They share two types of decks to consider for your backyard project:

Grade-level decks

A grade-level deck is a deck that is essentially one step up from the finished grade. Or one step up from the ground. Decks under 24 inches above the ground do not require a deck permit from the City of Winnipeg, allowing your deck builder to skip the permitting process, and saving time and money. Stairs with landings are also allowed without a permit, but the landing must be less than 36 square feet.

Grade-level decks are also more straightforward and less time-consuming to build. They are a simple box frame willed in with joists. There is no need to auger post holes and create cement piles. When building a new deck, these jobs are a significant use of time and money.

Instead, Clement Contracting builds grade-level decks on a base of limestone gravel. The joists are supported by limestone and protected from moisture on the ground. This structure protects your joists from rot, and the limestone also prevents soil erosion.

If you’re looking for a quick and straightforward solution for your outdoor living space, a grade-level deck will do the trick. Available in a range of decking materials, you can customize your deck with a pergola, privacy wall, and patio furniture.

Post and beam decks

Post and beam decks are higher than 24 inches above the ground or finished grade. Clement Contracting will use piles or blocks to support the posts, then construct beams on the posts and joists across the beams. This deck style requires a permit from the city, but that is something your contractor will take care of for you.

Post and beam decks are more time-consuming, labour intensive, and more expensive. However, they can make more of a statement and create a beautiful and functional addition to your home. Deck additions also have a great return on investment. According to this cost vs value report for deck additions, they can recoup more than 65% of their cost at resale.

Post and beam decks allow you to get creative with multiple levels, decorative stairs and railing styles, and other features. You can also include pergolas, privacy walls, planters, and other custom carpentry features.

Deck Builders in Winnipeg

Clement Contracting offers a range of interior and exterior services, including fences, decks, gates, bathroom, and basement renovations. They pride their craft and service and provide direct communication with every customer. Attention to detail, a flair for design, and projects built-to-last are things you can expect from Clement Contracting.

Improve your yard this spring. Book a consultation with Clement Contracting.

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

When you build a new home, you can customize it to meet your needs and taste. It’s an exciting process, and hiring the right home builder is a vital first step. Timber Wolff Designs Inc. in Calgary is a home construction contractor specializing in new homes and renovations. They share four things to consider when building a new house:

Determine your budget

First, speak with your bank to determine how much money you can spend on your new home and lot and how to allocate your funds. They can help you draw from existing funds or show you your options for a mortgage.

Always make a list of items in which you must have and a list of items you’d like to have if the budget allows. These lists will enable the design team at Timber Wolff Designs Inc. to create a home building design plan that prioritizes your lists. They can also provide insight on ways to save during construction and material selection. Then, you can determine to set aside an additional contingency budget. This contingency budget will cover unexpected costs that might come up along the way.

Once you’ve set the budget, your builder can create a plan and execute it accordingly. It will prevent additional cost overruns and allow your project to run more smoothly.

Choose the right location

When building a new home, you’ll likely have a few options for locations. For example, you can build in a new development, rural acreage lot, or choose to build an infill house in an established neighbourhood. Here are some things to consider when selecting the right location.

Location: Do you want to be central, suburban, or urban? Is it essential to be close to parks, schools, and greenspaces? Do you enjoy amenities like shopping malls, health care centres, and recreational facilities nearby? Does living in a high-traffic area bother you?

Size: If you have a dream home design plan, the lot must be large enough to accommodate that. Consider other needs like room for a garage, garden, patio, play area, and other outdoor features. Timber Wolff Designs Inc. and their team can create a building plan to accommodate the space if you’ve already purchased a lot.

Cost: When building a new home, you must consider the price of the lot in addition to the cost of the house. Keep in mind that purchasing a lot with an old home on it in a mature, sought-after neighbourhood, means you’ll also have to pay for the demolition of the older home. On the other hand, a developed lot in a new neighbourhood might be more cost-effective, if that is what you prefer.

Choose the right home builder

The home builder will be the project manager for your construction project. They must have years of experience, solid relationships with reputable contractors and suppliers, and a proven reputation in the industry. Your home builder should also provide design services and work with architects to turn your vision into a fully executable plan.

A reputable home builder will also carry a valid business license, liability insurance, and WCB coverage. They should also offer warranties according to local regulations. A professional home builder will have no problem providing proof of certification, warranties, and other requested documents.

Check their portfolio to ensure their style and capabilities will meet your needs. You can ask for references from previous clients, contact them for questions, and view photos of their work.

Schedule or Timeline

Have an idea of a timeline for your home build. This initial timeline will act as a loose guideline as bad weather, building issues such as material shortages or wait times on custom ordered items will be out of your control. Timber Wolff Designs Inc. will always communicate with you should there be any discrepancies in the schedule.

Home Builders in Calgary

Timber Wolff Designs Inc. is a general contracting company that manages residential and light commercial construction projects. Their projects range from new home construction, home renovations, restructuring and everything in between. They offer free in-person consultations and estimates and work with clients throughout the entire process. Their experienced team always ensures the project is completed to the highest standards possible.

Whether you’re building or renovating, contact Timber Wolff Designs Inc.!

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

Your eavestroughs play a critical role in your home’s roofing and drainage system. They direct water from rain and snow away from the roof, towards the downspout and away from your home. Unfortunately, poor quality or damaged gutters can allow water to flow off the side of your roof and pool around your foundation. That can lead to foundation damage, water penetration, and widespread water damage.

Let It Flow Exteriors specializes in eavestroughs in Edmonton and Parkland County. They share information about Lindab European gutters and why they’re the best choice for your home.

Built to last

Swedish manufacturers make Lindab European Gutters with the highest quality of steel. They’re coated in zinc and finished with high-build polyester paint. These materials ensure durability and longevity thanks to zinc ions. If there is a scratch on the material, it will self-heal to protect from the weather. Lindab European Gutters have an average lifespan of 75 years, which other steel or aluminum gutter options on the market simply can’t beat.

Superior eavestrough design

The superior design of Lindab European Gutters ensures optimal drainage from your roof. Water can flow more freely than other gutter types, moving it away quickly and protecting your home. The design also prevents debris like leaves from clogging the gutter system. Fast flowing water and reduced debris will decrease maintenance requirements and improve the performance of your drainage system. If your eavestroughs are constantly getting clogged and water can’t flow quickly and freely, issues can occur. Read about the importance of clean gutters.

Versatile colours for boosted curb appeal

Because of that high-build polyester paint finish, these advanced gutter systems are available in many beautiful colours. Choose between white, several shades of brown or grey, red, and black. These colour options allow you to pick eavestroughs that best match your home’s exterior design and colour scheme. In addition, you can mix and match colours for your eavestroughs and downspouts and customize your new and improved curb appeal.

Better installation process

Lindab European Gutters do not need a sealant like traditional gutters. Eavestrough installers in Edmonton use pressure-fitted concealed gaskets instead. Let It Flow installs gaskets at gutter joint hangers, corners, and all end caps. Using a rubber gasket instead of a sealant ensures zero leaks. When installers use gutters that require sealants, they can leak over time. Since the gasket is concealed, it will be protected from the elements and not break down like traditional sealants.

Working with Let It Flow Exteriors

Let It Flow Exteriors are the experts in eavestroughs and rainwater systems. They use the highest quality products available, offering lasting protection and visual appeal for your home. In addition, they provide a three-year workmanship guarantee to give you peace of mind.

Let It Flow Exteriors services Parkland County, Edmonton and the surrounding areas. They offer eavestrough services, soffit and fascia, siding, and faux stone installation. Learn more about them at Letttflowexteriors.ca, call 780-932-2810, or email [email protected] to start your home project.

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

Pressure washing a patio is one of the quickest ways of refreshing the look of your outdoor space. Over the years, it is normal for patio slabs to become dirty, gather moss and lose their shine. To maintain the look of your patio, it should be jet washed at least once a year. This is help cut down the accumulation of algae, dirt and mildew built up (and keep it looking brand-new!).

At the Handy Squad, we have been transforming patios in London for years. So, we have the experience and expertise to talk about all things pressure washing. We offer pressure washing services in London and surrounding areas. Our expert team can also pressure wash paving stones, jet wash stone steps and regrout paving stones.

When is the best time of the year to pressure wash a patio?

Spring and summer are the best seasons to pressure wash patios. The beginning of spring is a great time to jet wash your patio – the temperatures started to rise slightly, so there will not be any unpleasantness of pressure washing in the cold and you won’t run the risk of water freezing. Plus, around this time, you will either want to start using your patio again or want to start getting it ready for summer.

Will jet washing get rid of weeds?

Pressure washing shouldn’t be used to remove weeds growing from in between patio slabs. If weeds are growing in the slab joints, it means that the grout is damaged, cracked or old and should be repointed. So, if you pressure wash delicate grout, it will start breaking even more. Instead, to get rid of weeds, it is recommended to apply a weed-killer.

Related: How to repoint a patio.

What to do after jet washing patio?

After pressure washing, you can apply a sealer to your patio. A water-based sealer will protect surfaces against stains to keep them looking their best. However, this step is optional.

Will pressure washing remove paint?

Yes, pressure washing can quickly strip off old paint from wood, metal, concrete and other exterior surfaces. This should only be done if you want to re-paint these surfaces. If you want to keep your exterior surfaces painted, only pressure wash using a low-pressure flow of water.

To note: Lead paint should not be removed with a pressure washer. This type of paint should be carefully contained when removed.

Will pressure washing remove mould?

You can use a pressure washer to remove mould from exterior surfaces. However, removing mould will not stop mould growth. To fully remove mould and reduce the chances of mould growing, pressure wash your surfaces and use mould-killing cleaning products.

The post When to jet wash a patio? appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

A gas fireplace can keep you warm and cozy on a chilly day, provide ambience, and create a focal point in the room. However, if you don’t keep up with its maintenance, things can go wrong.

Ryan My Fireplace Guy Inc. in Calgary is a gas heating appliance expert and a certified gas fitter. They share signs that there’s something wrong with your gas fireplace, and you should call for service.

A gas smell

If you smell gas or a rotten egg odour, stop what you’re doing and leave your home. Natural gas doesn’t have a smell, so a harmless chemical is added to it to give it that distinct smell and warn us of leaks. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous. Call your utility company’s emergency line immediately or 911 if you can’t get through. They’ll give you instructions. Whatever you do, don’t try to fix it yourself, light a match, or turn on light switches.

It turns on and off

If you’re enjoying a cozy fire, but then it turns off for no reason, it means something is not working right. There could be a few things wrong. For example, it could have a soot buildup around the pilot light, a jammed burner, or a worn thermocouple or thermopile. Ryan My Fireplace Guy can come to inspect your fireplace, clean it, and make suggestions for maintenance and repairs.

There’s a lot of soot on the glass

Too much soot means your gas fireplace isn’t burning correctly. Unlike wood fireplaces, there shouldn’t be soot buildup anywhere. It means your ceramic logs are in the wrong position and burning, or there’s an issue with the outside venting or fireplace interior. If there is soot, call in for service.

Trouble with the pilot light

The pilot light should essentially stay on between uses. When your gas fireplace works properly, you shouldn’t have to keep relighting it. If it doesn’t stay lit, it can mean a worn-out thermopile. Or, it could be faulty wiring or an issue with the gas line. If you’ve already gone through the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting the pilot light and still have problems, call Ryan My Fireplace Guy.

You’ve never had it serviced

If you’ve bought a home and inherited a gas fireplace or have never had your older fireplace serviced, it’s time to call in a pro! Your gas fireplace and its components will suffer wear and tear, just like any system. It needs maintenance to ensure secure gas connections, clean thermopile and thermocouple, and clean ceramic logs. Gas appliances are a luxury but require regular inspections and maintenance to be safe.

Fireplaces in Calgary

Ryan My Fireplace Guy Ltd. offers gas fireplace and other heating appliance sales, installation, and service. They serve Calgary and the surrounding area and can help you install or repair your gas fireplace. The owner, Ryan, is a highly trained and educated, certified gas fitter with more than 17 years of experience in the field. If you need a new fireplace or fireplace maintenance, you know who to call.

Connect with Ryan My Fireplace Guy!

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