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

Keep the colours light and bright

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

Keep the space open

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

Maximize natural lighting or stage lighting

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

Focus on one purpose

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

Basement Renovations in Edmonton

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

Contact 4 O.A.K Construction today!

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

Advice on Updating Your Home for Aging in Place

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

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

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

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

Contact Handyman Connection

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

The post Aging in Place appeared first on Handyman Connection.

When Boris Johnson announced, on January 4, a new national lockdown emulating that of last March, much speculation was made by residents of England regarding the availability of their go-to tradesmen who certainly cannot work from home.

Stress no further – it’s good news all round since anybody who cannot effectively work from their own home is, indeed, allowed to enter the homes of others for this purpose. So, our team of general handyman, decorators, electricians, plumbers and carpenters will be able to give you a helping hand with your required home repairs and/or renovations. However, it doesn’t come without its limitations, which we unquestionably respect and must warn our customers of.

As much as our CRB-checked tradesmen love to catch up with their friendly customers, the law states that they must not communicate with the residents of the home in which they are in, prior to any work being carried out, as this helps to limit face-to-face contact. Surfaces touched must also be wiped down, and for those customers who have symptoms or have tested positive for the coronavirus, tradesmen must not enter the site of self-isolation.

Our teams will also be conscious of the two-metre social distancing measures, along with the wearing of PPE, including face-masks. They will be washing their hands regularly, for the amount of time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice (this will usually be in their head, but can be performed aloud for customers who are celebrating their big day from home), and they will dispose of their own paper towels away from the property.

Finally, if you are worried about tradesmen arriving at your home in large and constantly-changing teams, we promise that designated members, of a limited number, will be assigned to each project. You can expect to see them working side-to-side or back-to-back, rather than face-to-face.

Unfortunately, any work which is not deemed as urgent and cannot be carried out while effectively following the guidelines will be postponed. Tradesmen who fall into the ‘vulnerable’ category will also not be going to work, so please don’t be too disappointed if another member of Handy Squad arrives at your doorstep – you’ll soon be equally as familiar with them!

Request a free quote by filling our online booking form. Otherwise, feel free to call our helpful team on 0800-0-12-12-12. We’re looking forward to hearing from you.

The post Handy Squad’s Covid-safe tradesmen are ever-ready to work on your home appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to successfully complete a DIY construction project or an independent contractor, getting the job done on time is far from easy. Construction projects infamously have unexpected hurdles, setbacks, and costs.

However, with the proper planning and construction schedule, you are all but guaranteed to get your project done by your deadline. But where do you start?

We’re here to help. Keep reading for our top tips on effective project management for on-time completion.

Plan Ahead and Create a Timeline

Before diving into a project, you need to plan out every detail of your construction tasks, project costs, materials, equipment, tools, and manpower. Overlooking these details is what leads to delays in your construction project.

If you’re on a timeline, you can’t afford to leave the worksite multiple times a day to get more tools, supplies, or materials. Just as importantly, you need to make sure you have the proper budget to finish the job to completion. Make sure you include a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Collect All the Necessary Materials

As noted above, you need to account for the materials you need and collect them before you start your project. To finish on time, it’s vital to have everything you need on-site.

Double-check your measurements and to ensure you’ve budgeted for enough materials. Depending on your project, running out of certain types of structural supports, wood panels, screws, or other materials may stop you dead in your tracks.

Find Hard Workers

If your construction tasks require more than one person, reach out to the right people to help you finish the job on time. These people should be both hard workers and good problem solvers. However, they also need to know how to follow instructions.

The right workers will help you complete your project timely and accurately. Just as importantly, having good people around will make the work go by faster.

Get the Right Tools

One of the biggest mistakes DIYers and amateur contractors make is attempting to complete a job with what they have rather than what they need. Having the right tools increases the quality of workmanship. They also help you stay on track with your timeline, particularly with commercial renovations.

If you don’t have the right tools, it may be worthwhile to invest. If you don’t think you’ll ever need the tools again, consider renting them from a store or borrowing them from a friend or family member. Regardless, using the best tools for the https://invictaconstruction.ca/8-tips-for-commercial-builds/job is vital for your project.

Consider Hiring Professionals

Finally, finishing a construction project on time may come down to hiring a professional contracting company. The contractors will have the experience, know-how, and proper tools to get the job done right and in a timely fashion.

Opting for professional help may even save on your total project costs. Some DIY projects end up being scrapped and redone due to inexperience and poor results.

Looking to Get Your Construction Project Done On Time?

Do you have some construction tasks ahead of you? Do you have enough manpower? Do you have the right tools?

If you want to get your project done on time, we can help. Contact us today to get a free quote on your construction project. We look forward to helping you in any way we can!

Read >>>  Canadian construction trends to watch in 2021

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

Learn How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter

The cold season of winter is here, and it is time to winterize your home to prevent and lessen your worries about frozen pipes. Our reliable craftspeople have gathered a number of tips for our valued customers about how to prevent frozen pipes this winter season.

Insulation

To avoid frozen pipes in the winter, it is important to know where your water pipes are in your home. For example, if you have any pipes in the basement that run along an outer wall, it is important to provide those areas of your home with proper or even extra insulation to prevent too much heat loss and a possible freeze due to it being a cold area of your home. Properly insulating your home will also help control how your home maintains its temperature and can save you on expensive energy bills if done properly.

Deep-Freezes

In the occurrence of a deep-freeze where temperatures outside are near or below zero, it is important to make sure you have at least one tap in your home running. This is important to make sure the water in your home is always open and moving, so nothing stays too cold in the frozen weather. This activity will keep away frozen pipes. For example, keep one tap/ faucet in your home on enough to drip during those deep freezes to avoid the possibility of frozen pipes.

Outdoor Hoses

When thinking about pipes in your home, do not forget about the outdoor connections as well. For example, be sure to winterize by removing and disconnecting all water hoses, turn off all outdoor faucets and spigots to avoid frozen or burst pipes.

Here are three tips about frozen pipes that will help you and your family winterize and prepare for the coming season. As the temperature drops, it is important to keep an eye on your home and make sure you are ready for the winter months.

Contact Handyman Connection

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

The post How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Whether your old AC has broken down or it’s nearing the end, picking a replacement is an important decision. Different factors, like size and efficiency, will affect which type is right for your home. That’s why being informed before you buy will guarantee you get the right pick.

Furnace King Home Services in Mississauga is a full-service HVAC company. They share what you need to know when choosing the right AC for your home:

Start with the right size

The right size is a crucial first decision with a new AC. It will affect how well the unit works and how much you spend on monthly cooling. Too small, and the unit will overwork itself trying to cool your home. Too big is just as much of a problem as the unit will cost more to install and won’t run as efficiently. To get the right size, measure each room’s square footage, and multiply it by the required cooling capacity. Otherwise, talking to a professional as well for a second opinion will guarantee you get the right size.

What type of unit do you want?

The next step is considering what type of unit you want or need. The three most common types are either a central AC unit, a window unit, or a portable unit. Central AC’s are built into a single boxed unit that sits either on the roof or outside the home. They then connect to the air ducts and draw in cold air from the outdoors to cool the entire house. They become a part of the heating and cooling system as a whole.

Windows units, as their name suggests, sit in the window as a small box and provide cooling for individual rooms. Portable units can be carried around and moved to different rooms as needed. While a central AC may be more expensive, it offers better value and savings over the long-term, making it a worthwhile investment.

Consider the energy efficiency

The better your new AC’s energy efficiency, the more savings you will enjoy monthly. The higher the rating, the longer the units will last. They will also run more efficiently and can be easier to control and customize. Some have energy-saving modes that shut off once the room’s temperature goal has been reached. Others have programmable settings to decide what temperature the room should comfortably reach. The best way to ensure you get an efficient AC is to pick an ENERGY STAR certified model. These models are built to be efficient, long-lasting, and use 10% less energy on average.

HVAC Companies in Mississauga 

Furnace King Home Services stands behind their products and the value they provide in your home. Their professionals provide quality installation, support, and help so that your home is outfitted for years of peace of mind. Their services include air conditioning, heating, clean air filtration, emergency services, and more. No matter what you need, their professionals are just a call away.

Contact Furnace King Home Services today!

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

It may come as a surprise to some homeowners when their hot water tank fails. Not all signs of a failing heater will mean puddles of water on the floor, but there are still warnings. Emergency repairs and sudden replacements are both costly expenses that can be avoided if you know what to look for.

Acclaimed! Heating, Cooling & Furnace Cleaning is here to help ensure that nothing goes wrong with your hot water tank. If you notice any signs your heater is failing, hire help for repairs or plan to replace it with a new model.

Your heater is old

Generally, water heaters have a lifespan of 10 years before they should be replaced. Waiting to replace an old water heater invites the risk of leaks or breaks that can cost even more in damages. To check your water heater, look at the manufacturer label. Most labels have the month and year the heater was manufactured. If it is older than or getting close to 10 years, start thinking about a replacement. Aside from preventing breaks, newer models are more efficient and offer better long-term savings.

There is a rumbling sound

Strange noises from a water heater should never be ignored, no matter the age of the heater. Sediment buildup, typically from age, is caused when the sediment is heated and reheated, moisture in it turns into steam and blasts into the water. This what causes that strange sound. Over time, the sediment will build up and harden. Not only does this make the unit less efficient, but it can also quickly cause damage to the heater. Leaks can occur, or the metal will become brittle from the sediment and develop a hole. If the heater breaks and floods, this can cause a major restoration needed and all too often when you are way. Any strange noises should be looked at by a professional Edmonton furnace company as soon as possible.

Rusty or smelly water

When you turn on the taps, are you greeted with rusty water instead of clear and clean water? Or is the water clear but smells like rotten eggs? Both of these can be signs of water heater problems. An easy way to check is to see if both the hot and cold water have the same problem. If yes, it’s a water source problem. Just the hot water means the problem is the water heater and the same if you fill three or four buckets of hot water, and it’s all rusty. That signifies the heater is rusting from the inside out, which is both a health and safety issue. Don’t wait for the problem to worsen, but immediately replace your water heater with an Edmonton furnace company.

Consider the risk of natural gas

Water heaters that run on natural gas especially need to be properly maintained and replaced if needed. The risk otherwise of an unmaintained gas heater is the possibility of carbon monoxide leaks, similar to gas furnace Edmonton models. Not only is it odourless and undetectable, but it’s also extremely deadly. Most water heaters use gas and have a lifespan of about 10 years before they need to be replaced. If it needs constant repairs or shows signs of fault, have it inspected to make sure it’s safe. You should have it replaced if it is unsafe.

Not enough hot water

Have you noticed that you’re not getting as much hot water compared to what you used to get? This is also a sign your hot water heater is starting to fail. Sediment and rust at the bottom of the tank can block the heater from getting at the water in the tank properly. There is also a dip tube that brings the cold water from your plumbing system to the bottom of your tank so it can be heated. If there is a crack in the tube, the cold water is escaping before it reaches the bottom. It will need to be replaced. Also, a faulty thermostat can also be the culprit of suddenly not having enough hot water.

If you detect any of these warning signs, don’t wait to replace your water heater. Contact Acclaimed! Heating, Cooling & Furnace Cleaning today for a new hot water heater.

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

Your garage is more than a space to store and keep your car protected. It is a multifunctional area where you can work, socialize, relax, be artistic and do whatever you want to do. Consider it your own creative world. 

Here are some simple tips to renovate a garage and  give it the upgrade it may need.

1. Use surrounding walls for vertical storage.

Using surrounding walls for vertical storage can help you keep the floors clear from clutter and spacious for your car and walking space.

The best storage for garages are free standing cabinets as they allow you to rearrange or clear them away as needed. 

You can also consider installing mounted shelves if you’re short on space. They are easy to install and they make the most basic DIY project you can enjoy. All that you need are L brackets and ¾ inch thick wood. If you’re a little short on budget, recycled wooden palettes would do the job just as well.

2. Adequate Lighting

To properly renovate a garage you should always add adequate lighting. You can’t have a garage that is dimly lit, or else accidents can happen. You can hit clutter when parking or graze the garage door with your car. You may also have sharp tools scattered around that you may trip into if unseen.

To give you an idea, the recommended lumens per square foot in residential garages is 50 lumens and 300 for workshop garages, according to the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). Your garage doesn’t have to be dark and dungy. With proper lighting, you can increase your productivity in your garage and its functionality. At the same time, a well-lit space can also appear to be larger.

3.       Paint

Before installing cabinets or shelves, consider giving your garage some new colors. Preferably, use neutral tones to help distribute light around the closed space. 

Beige, tan or grey are your best choices. These colors are easier to maintain because they don’t attract that much dirt. 

Painting walls may seem easy, but a very specific process needs to be followed for the best results. You may also want to research what kind of paint you must use for what kind of walls you have. For concrete walls, elastomeric paint must be used for better binding. On the other hand, latex paint should be used for wood walls. Don’t forget about the primer. If you are not sure about how to go on with the paint job, it’s best if you hire a professional.

4.      Floor Coating

Before you renovate a garage, consider this final tip. There’s an easy fix to that bland looking concrete slab you have there. Coating your garage floor can instantly make your garage look grand and well cared for. Not only that, applying quality coating on your floor can also make it last longer. Garage floor coatings make concrete resilient to stains and tire marks. It also keeps liquids from seeping through cracks which can cause problematic damage over time.

These heavy-duty epoxy based coatings are also very affordable given the benefits they offer.

Your garage is more valuable than you know…

If you have a garage that faces the open road, most likely, your garage covers 30 percent of your home’s facade, thus greatly affecting the curb appeal of your home. Renovate your garage to boost the value of your home dramatically. In addition, investing in any type of renovation that goes towards the beautification or upgrade of your garage will definitely add value to it. Considering the average size of a garage is 36 sqm, that’s 45 percent of any average home. 

Contact Handyman Connection

Interested in renovating your garage? Our craftsmen at Handyman Connection have the expertise to assist your home renovation. Call your local Handyman Connection office or fill out our online quote form to learn more about our renovation services. 

The post Renovate Your Garage with These Simple Tips appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Insulation helps with temperature regulation, sound-proofing, and fire-proofing the spaces it’s installed in. However, depending on the age of your home, insulation may need to be replaced. But how do you know when is the right time? From the insulation contractors at Advanced Insulation in Winnipeg, here are some tips on how to tell when you may need new insulation.

Your energy bills have increased

As previously mentioned, insulation regulates the temperature in your home. Does your home feel colder than it used to? Are your energy bills up unexpectedly? This may be because your insulation needs to be replaced. If you find that you’re spending more on heating this winter season, or air conditioning over the summer, contact an insulation contractor to learn your options moving forward.

Some rooms in your home are colder than others

Random cold areas in your home could be a sign of poor insulation. Take a walk around your home, and note which rooms feel colder than others in order to determine which rooms may be problematic. If you’ve noticed drafty areas or drafty rooms, check around windows and doors for drafts. You should also check your heat registers to make sure they haven’t been closed. If you’ve inspected the room and can’t determine why it’s colder, it’s probably the insulation that needs an upgrade. 

You’re finding bugs or rodents in your home

As unpleasant as it may sound, poor insulation can be the result of bugs and rodents digging their way into your home. Not only will these holes give them an easier time getting into your home, but it lets more air in too. When insulation is newer or properly installed, it’s more difficult for unwanted pests to enter your home. Put away those mouse traps, and keep unwanted critters out by fixing your insulation.

Your pipes are freezing

If insulation is poor in your home along the exterior walls, your pipes will be at risk of freezing during the colder temperatures. This could cause pipes to burst, leading to further issues down the road. Protect your pipes with proper insulation. Insulating your pipes or around your pipes will save you the trouble and the money that comes with fixing frozen pipes. 

Insulation Contractors in Winnipeg

Advanced Insulation Inc. is a Winnipeg-based insulation contractor. They provide superior and efficient solutions for today’s complex and energy-efficient building demands. They pride themselves on their strong reputation for providing honest advice, superior service, and excellent work. From residential projects, new homes, and renovations to large commercial projects, they provide unparalleled service in a timely and professional manner.

Interested? Check out Advanced Insulation Inc. today!

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

There are some home repairs that can be put off, but if you have an emergency with your plumbing or heating system, you might need immediate assistance. Winters are cold in Manitoba and you need to get that heat running before pipes freeze and your home becomes uncomfortable. When it comes to plumbing, significant leaks causing water damage or a toilet that’s out of commission can be an emergency too.

Rusnak’s Plumbing and Heating Services in Winnipeg offers a wide range of plumbing and HVAC services including installation, repairs, and 24-hour emergency services. They are the ones to call if you have an emergency. They share what you can do in those instances.

Plumbing Emergencies

Not all plumbing problems are considered an emergency. If you have a dripping faucet or a clogged drain, it’s likely you can wait until regular business hours to get it repaired. However, if you have a burst pipe it could mean flooding and extensive water damage. If it’s the weekend and your only toilet doesn’t work, you’ll need someone to repair it right away.

If there is water leaking, severely or even subtly, the first thing you can do is turn off the water supply. First, you need to locate your main water shutoff valve. This is located at your water meter. Look for it in the utility room, or in the basement or crawlspace, near an exterior wall. You’ll see it located on the pipe coming out of your water meter. Once that is turned off, the water will stop so you can clean up the mess and wait for the plumber to arrive.

If you can isolate the leak, you should be able to turn off the water supply to that specific fixture. Look for a valve for your toilet and sink faucets. Cut off the water supply to the troubled area. With it off, you should be able to wait until morning to call the plumber.

Heating Emergencies

If your furnace goes out in the middle of winter, this can be a serious problem. If your home loses too much heat, any pipes running along the exterior wall that is not insulated can start to freeze. Frozen pipes can lead to leaks or even serious ruptures. Also, the temperature in your home will start to drop. It can hold its heat for a while, but soon the temperature will drop to uncomfortable and then dangerous levels.

If your furnace goes out, do a little DIY troubleshooting first. It could be an issue with the thermostat. Check to make sure it’s hasn’t turned off the heat setting. It could also be that the electrical circuit the furnace runs on has tripped and needs to be reset. Check the pilot light. It might need to be relit. You can find more tips for DIY troubleshooting furnace issues.

If you can’t solve the problem, contact Rusnak’s Plumbing and Heating for a full inspection and repair service. If your furnace isn’t working over the weekend and you’ll have to wait a couple of days for regular business hours, you should call in for emergency repair.

Plumbing and Heating Companies in Winnipeg

Rusnak’s Plumbing and Heating Services provides Winnipeg and the area with premium services for residential, commercial, new construction, repairs, and renovations. They’ve worked hard to build and maintain quality customer service and workmanship, along with unbeatable prices.

If you need plumbing or heating repairs or installation, contact Rusnak’s Plumbing and Heating Services.

Click to Find >>>> Best Plumbers in Winnipeg. 

 Click to Find >>> HVAC Companies in Winnipeg

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