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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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💡 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

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✅ 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

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📣 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.

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Why We Plant

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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

Design a Great Firepit Party!

Nothing brings people together like a fire. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or planning a rustic night under the stars, a well-designed firepit area can transform your landscape into an inviting retreat. Here’s how to create a firepit party setup that’s cozy, safe, and unforgettable.

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1. Pick the Perfect Location

Do you want your firepit to be part of the main entertainment zone near the house, or should it be tucked into the woods for a more primal, campfire feel? This key decision will shape the design:

• A gas firepit on a stone patio near the house reduces smoke and offers cleaner, modern vibes.

• A wood-burning bonfire offers a rustic charm but should be placed safely away from structures.

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2. Design for Safety and Flow

If your firepit is close to your home’s deck or outdoor living space, a hardscaped pathway makes it easier to access. For remote, woodsy firepits, informal access through gravel or stepping stones may feel more natural.

Follow these fire safety essentials:

• Position the firepit at least 10 feet from any structure

• Use Fire Smart plant selections for Alberta landscaping

• Check local bylaws before installing a permanent pit

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3. Choose Comfortable Seating

Comfort is key! For patios, consider weather-resistant outdoor furniture with cushions that encourage long conversations. If you’re embracing the woods, try large boulders, a seating wall, or cured log stools. Avoid freshly cut wood for seating—it’s sticky and full of sap.

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4. Create a Cozy Enclosure

Firepits feel best when partially enclosed. Frame your space with boulders, shrubs, or perennial garden beds, leaving one side open to encourage playful flow. Add a pergola, vented gazebo, or wind-blocking louvres for shelter and style.

Right-size your firepit patio:

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5. Add Evening Magic

Great lighting turns a firepit area into a magical evening escape. Use string lights, up-lit trees, lanterns, and pathway markers to build ambiance. White flowers like moonflower or Evening Scented Stocks glow at night and release fragrance after dusk—an enchanting touch!

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6. Include Comforts & Extras

A screened gazebo nearby lets you set out food without worry and offers a cozy nook for late-night snuggles. Don’t forget warm blankets, marshmallows, and your favorite playlist or cheesy sing-along songs.

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At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., we specialize in crafting personalized outdoor spaces for unforgettable gatherings. Book your perfect firepit design today!

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

Creating the perfect outdoor living space means designing with intention, style, and comfort. At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., we believe your backyard should be a sanctuary—a space that feels like an extension of your home. Here are the four essential elements for building a truly enjoyable and functional space:

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1. Furniture You Love

Whether it’s a snuggly sectional, a soothing lawn swing, or a rugged harvest table under string lights, the furniture you choose should invite you outside. Select pieces that reflect your style and provide the comfort you need to unwind. A storage trunk is a smart addition—keeping dry cushions and throws on hand means you’re always ready to relax in your backyard oasis.

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2. Properly Sized Space

Choosing the right furniture is only half the equation—you also need a landscape design plan that accommodates everything comfortably. This is where a scale drawing becomes essential. Pull chairs out from the table, ensure space for movement even when seats are occupied, and leave enough room around the BBQ area. Add pots and baskets of summer flowers for colour and vibrancy.

Don’t forget: draw a 3-foot-wide garden path from the door to the exit or stairs, and keep it clear of furniture. Our average patio design spans at least 16 feet across, providing plenty of room for both functionality and flow. For a small nook for two, plan for at least 6’ by 8’.

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3. Safety and Standards

Following proper construction standards results in an outdoor space that’s not just attractive but also safe. Nobody enjoys sitting beside a drop-off, navigating awkward stairs, or worrying about unsafe railings. Strategic dividers, walls, and railings add privacy, shelter, and decorative potential while ensuring peace of mind. Best of all, doing things right inspires your neighbours to do the same—keeping eyesores to a minimum.

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4. Fill It With Life

To transform a good space into a great one, infuse it with life and sensory richness. Consider vines for privacy, herb planters for aroma and utility, and fountains to add the soothing sound of water. String lights can add ambience and charm.

The BBQ area often becomes the social hub, so keep it close to the seating area. You might even create a cozy bistro corner with cut flowers, a wine bottle display, and a bar-height table for casual dining. Add a few guests—and voila, instant magic!

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At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., we’re full of creative ideas to turn your backyard into a destination. Book your custom outdoor living solution today!

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

Homes often reflect the personality of their owners. When you stand at the curb looking at your home, do you feel happy and welcomed—or do you feel pushed away?

Whether you’re a public figure seeking privacy or an introvert looking for solitude, the right landscape design can help you create a serene and secluded outdoor space. With professional help, you can incorporate fences, hedges, privacy walls, and secure gates that send a clear message to “keep out.” Your front yard can be landscaped to feel set back from the street, with the entrance subtly hidden from view—an ideal approach for private homes.

On the other hand, if you prefer a welcoming and vibrant curb appeal, paint your door a bold, cheerful colour and keep trees and shrubs trimmed to offer better visibility. You can experiment with wider planting beds filled with colourful perennials that bloom in succession throughout the growing season. Not only does this improve visual interest, but it enhances your home’s outdoor living experience as well.

A comfortable, well-maintained walkway should be between 3 to 5 feet wide. A gently curving path—or one with an intentional jog—adds personality and flow. Spend some time driving through different neighbourhoods to observe the variety of effects!

To add architectural flair, consider placing an arbour or archway over your front sidewalk. Just ensure it’s at least 4 feet wide to avoid feeling cramped. If you add a gate beneath the arch, be aware that guests may assume there’s a dog in the yard—possibly slowing them down!

At EarthWorm Landscape Design Co., we specialize in customizing front yard landscaping solutions to match your personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re after privacy, curb appeal, or both, our landscape designers will help your home send the right message. Book your perfect garden solution today!

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

Planning to upgrade or build a new deck? With Edmonton’s harsh winters and dry summers, choosing the right decking material isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about long-term durability. That’s why more homeowners are choosing composite decking Edmonton as their go-to solution.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know: what composite decking is, how much it costs, why it performs so well in Alberta’s climate, and how to get it installed properly.

A wide-angle image of a finished composite deck with outdoor furniture, greenery, and clear skies.

What Is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is a manufactured material made from a mix of recycled wood fibers, plastics, and binding agents. It mimics the look of real wood, but without the common downsides like splintering, rotting, or fading.

Common Types of Composite Decking:

• WPC (Wood-Plastic Composite): Made from sawdust and recycled plastics.
  
• MBC (Mineral-Based Composite): Lightweight, heat-resistant, and ultra-durable.
  
• PVC Decking: 100% plastic, perfect for moisture resistance and fade protection.
  

Each material type has its strengths, but all are designed to last longer and perform better than traditional wood—especially in Alberta’s extreme weather.

Close-up of composite decking boards stacked side by side in different colors and textures 

Why It’s a Great Fit for Edmonton’s Climate

Between heavy snowfalls, sudden thaws, summer heat, and year-round UV exposure, wood decks in Edmonton take a beating. Composite decking is built to handle it all—with far less maintenance.

Key Benefits:

• No sanding, sealing, or staining
  
• Resistant to cracking, warping, and rotting
  
• Fade-resistant and water-repellent
  
• Slip-resistant surfaces, even when wet
  
• Simple cleaning with just soap and water
  

Homeowners seeking composite decking Edmonton appreciate its performance year after year.

Cost: Is Composite Decking Worth the Investment?

While composite decking comes with a higher upfront cost than pressure-treated wood, it often ends up being more affordable in the long run. You save on staining, repairs, and board replacement—not to mention your time.

What Impacts the Cost:

• Type of composite material (WPC, MBC, PVC)
  
• Brand and finish
  
• Size and layout of your deck
  
• Professional installation and design features
  

CBS Alberta works with trusted Canadian suppliers to source high-quality composite materials and offers clear, competitive quotes, helping homeowners plan confidently and avoid unexpected costs.

Railings and Finishing Touches Matter

A durable deck is only as good as its details. Your railing system contributes to both safety and aesthetics. CBS Alberta offers deck railing installation in Edmonton with aluminum, glass, or composite-compatible systems that match your design and meet local code.

They also provide additional services:

• Waterproofing solutions
  
• Custom layout and framing
  

CBS Alberta installers working on a raised deck frame, installing composite boards and aluminum railings.

Where to Buy Composite Decking in Edmonton

Composite decking boards are available at most building supply retailers. But to get the most out of your investment, professional installation is key.

CBS Alberta offers deck construction services tailored to Edmonton homes, including:

• Material recommendations
  
• Custom design
  
• Code-compliant framing and railings
  
• Warranty-backed installation
  

Conclusion

Composite decking offers Edmonton homeowners a durable, low-maintenance, and weather-resistant option that outperforms traditional wood. It’s a smart investment for lasting beauty and functionality in any outdoor space.

Working with experienced local installers can save time, money, and future headaches. Take your time to compare materials, designs, and installation services to make the most of your outdoor space.

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