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With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking of how to refresh your yard. Whether you want to plant a garden, add a patio or walkway, or refurbish your lawn, these things can brighten your outdoor space. 

However, there are some avoidable mistakes to consider before taking on a landscaping project. The pros at Gardening Gurus Ltd. in Calgary can ensure the job is done right. 

Not researching your plant choices

Adding plants and greenery to your yard is a great way to bring life to your space, but you must consider what care they require. Several factors can impact whether or not your plants will thrive. Climate is a significant factor as well as care needs, and if you don’t consider this, you’ll end up with dead plants. 

Here are some examples of great plants for Calgary gardens: 

– Veronica Whitleyi – is a ground-growing plant that blooms blue and white flowers.
– Coralbells are low-maintenance perennial blooms in the midsummer with small pink flowers.
– Summer Phlox – Blooms in bunches and shades of pink, it’s an ideal beginning gardener plant as it’s easy to care for.

Read this article about how to save money on buying plants.

Putting plants in the wrong spot 

Each plant will have its own unique set of specific needs. This includes watering, sunlight, and the other plants nearby. Putting a plant in a spot just because of its aesthetic could be a big mistake that could result in dying plants. Gardening Gurus can help you choose plants for the sunny beds and the shady parts of your yard, so your garden thrives throughout the season.

Too many ornamental items

A few decorations around your yard can add real character, but there is such a thing as too much. You don’t want to detract from your landscape or overwhelm the space. Instead, choose a few of your favourite decorative trinkets and space them out accordingly. 

Not hiring a professional landscaper and gardener

For those with big dreams for their yard, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not hiring a professional. Professional landscapers have the knowledge necessary to make sure your landscape project is beautiful, healthy and maintained.

They have the know-how to optimize and stylize your space by designing patio layouts and determining the best plants for the climate. They have access to the best products and equipment to make sure your landscape is perfect.

Landscapers in Calgary 

Gardening Gurus Ltd. has the tried and proven professional experience to take on your landscaping projects and bring them to life. They strive for customer satisfaction – and will do everything they can to meet your expectations. Gardening Gurus are experienced professionals who would like you to enjoy your yard!

Check out Gardening Gurus Ltd. in Calgary for all of your landscaping needs.

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

Painting the exterior of your home is a great way to add to the curb appeal of the house. It can make any home look new again, and give it a fresh new look. But how do you know which paint to choose? Choosing the right kind of paint can be tricky with so many different things to consider.

Elbow Painting Company in Calgary offers interior and exterior painting services. With more than 10 years of professional painting experience, they share the differences between the two main kinds of exterior paint:

Water-based Latex paint

Water-based paint, also known as latex paint, consists of pigment and binder used with water. Latex paints come in two forms: an all-acrylic binder and a vinyl-acrylic binder. An all-acrylic binder can be best to hold up during weathering all year-round.

Latex paint is a great option for siding because it’s a very breathable paint choice. It expands in warm weather and contracts in cold weather, this way it won’t trap moisture and peel away. When a painter applies it, it will dry quickly, taking around 1-6 hours. That, and you won’t get a strong paint smell for long periods of time.

The disadvantages? Sometimes water-based latex paint doesn’t cover exterior surfaces as well as oil-based paint. If you’re trying to cover a darker colour, you might need multiple coats. It can swell wood siding and doesn’t coat metal as well. It is also less durable than oil-based paint.

But, overall, water-based or latex paint is a good option for painting the exterior of your home.

Oil-based paint

Oil-based paint consists of pigment and solvent thinners. The thinners eventually will evaporate and form a thicker coating on the walls. It adheres to the surface it is applied to more than the water-based, making it good for withstanding staining. This paint is better for chalky, rough, or stained surfaces as opposed to the smooth siding. It will get into all the grooves on the wall, and keep the surface completely covered. Oil-based paint also offers excellent coverage.

This paint does have a longer drying time, taking around 8-24 hours to dry. Still, the colour will withstand time and weather, keeping your house looking new and upgraded through all seasons.

Some people steer clear of oil-based paint if they are bothered by the fumes it produces while going on and drying. It also requires chemicals to clean brushes and supplies, and unused oil-based paint needs to be disposed of according to local regulations. Read more about choosing exterior house paint. 

Painters in Calgary

Elbow Painting Company is a family-owned and operated business with over 10 years of experience. They offer high-quality interior and exterior painting at affordable prices. Your project will be in great hands down to the last detail, providing the best finish for your home improvement project. Start planning your home upgrade and book a free consultation with Elbow Painting Company.

Contact them today!

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

You might have heard people talk about odd jobs or perhaps someone said they needed an “odd job man” but what does that mean?

An odd job man is someone who is skilled at various odd jobs and other small tasks. The Cambridge Dictionary defines odd jobs as, “small jobs of different types, especially those that involve repairing or cleaning things.” If you’re stuck, scratching your head and thinking “Who do I call to get this done?” That’s an odd job.

At the Handy Squad, our experienced handyman can complete a variety of odd jobs. So, what types of odd jobs can our handymen complete? From boxing in pipes to draught proofing homes, our versatile traders can get all sorts done.

Types of odd jobs.

Install and/or replace bath screens.

Want to install a new bath screen or replace an old bath screen? Perhaps you want to fit a shower screen? An odd job man will be able to give you a helping hand. If you want to further refresh the look of your bathroom, why not get our London plumbers to install a stunning new bathtub or our tilers to regrout bathroom tiles.

Box in pipework.

Pipework is not something pretty to look at. You might want to get someone in to hide it and make your bathroom look modern and sleek once again. Whether you want a professional to box in plumbing pipes in the bathroom or box in pipework in the kitchen, that’s a task for an odd job man.

Cable tidying.

Cable tidying is essential for the home or office (or home office!). Loose cables are a tripping hazard and a pet’s favourite to nibble on. Prevent injuries by tidying loose cables and wires properly. Our handyman in London can tidy away cables in your workplace or hide television cables away from view.

Related: Importance of cable management in the workplace.

Replace ceiling tiles.

Ceiling tiles, also known as ceiling panels, get stained and broken after years of use. Give your office a new look by having professionals replace ceiling tiles. It might seem like a small change but it will have a big impact on the overall look of the office space.

Draught proofing.

No more draughts in the house coming from unwanted gaps in your windows, doors, letterboxes and more. Save money on heating and ensure you are warm during the cold days of winter by draughtproofing your property.

Lift and shift furniture.

Moving furniture around the house might seem like an easy task to some. However, moving large pieces of furniture by yourself will prove to be a bad choice (and you might hurt yourself in the process). Hire handyman to take care of the heavier stuff and redecorate your home. We can lift and shift furniture and help with various other odd jobs.

Replace toilet seat.

Want to swap your old toilet seat with a new one but are not sure how to do it or don’t want the time to do it yourself? Maybe your toilet seat broke and you need help replacing it? Our team will be able to help.

Fit gun cabinets.

If you are a licensed gun holder and need a safe place to store your firearms, our team can easily fit gun cabinets, from small gun cabinets to large gun cabinets, depending on your collection.

These are some of the odd jobs our team can complete. Have more odd jobs you’d like us to do? Contact us today and speak to one of our team members to let us know how we can help.

The post What are odd jobs? appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Stucco is a popular choice of siding for any house and one that adds a unique look and value. While it generally requires little maintenance, sometimes stucco does need some attention. Knowing when stucco needs to be repaired or replaced is vital to keeping your home safe.

Dynamic Stucco Repair Inc. in Calgary is a professional stucco repair company that strives to offer excellent customer services and long-lasting repairs. Here they share when stucco can be repaired or needs to be replaced:

Signs of stucco damage

One of the most common signs of stucco damage is cracks forming along the surface. While a single, thin crack may not mean anything right away, multiple cracks are a sign of trouble. Any large cracks over ¼” wide are a sign of serious structural issues. They may be from the house settling or water getting into the cracks. Stains are another sign of trouble and should never just be painted over. If it’s the result of moisture, the problem can quickly spread and even cause the stucco to crumble off.

Repair or replace?

Depending on the depth of damage on the stucco, it can typically be repaired with a patch job. These patch jobs can be DIYed if you have a little skill and time. Larger cracks or stucco that is flaking off can’t be so easily repaired. First, the stucco will need to be removed and the underlying surface repaired. Once that’s complete, a new layer of stucco can be applied. With a job like that, it’s best left to a professional contractor. They’ll have the right tools, experience, and know-how to handle the job safely. Even minor repairs can be left to a professional to save time and ensure it’s done properly.

Get a professional inspection

If you notice a hairline crack in your stucco, don’t ignore it. Take the time to call in a professional to inspect your stucco. If there is an underlying issue causing the crack, it’s best to get the hidden damage repaired as soon as possible. Even if the crack is not a sign of anything serious, have your contractor fix the crack. It’ll help protect your home for longer and keep that stucco in top condition. Small cracks can lead to water seeping in, damaging the stucco and risking getting into your home. If nothing else, intact stucco is essential to maintaining your home’s curb appeal. 

Dynamic Stucco Repair Inc. in Calgary

Dynamic Stucco Repair Inc. uses cutting-edge technology to provide the best stucco repair services. They provide solutions to any home improvement needs, big or small. So you know who to call for stucco repair, water leakers, interior and exterior painting.

Contact Dynamic Stucco Repair Inc. today!

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

Winter is hard on roofs. Snow, ice dams, high winds, and other extreme weather all take a toll. Your roof is what protects the rest of your home from the elements, so it’s crucial to keep it in good repair. Therefore, once the snow melts, it’s time for spring maintenance. This prevents further damage to your house’s structure and ensures that your roof can withstand spring rainfall. While you can always inspect your roof yourself, a professional roofer can identify potential issues that you might otherwise miss.

OCR Strong in Ottawa provides roof inspections, repairs, and installations, and offers spring maintenance packages and estimates. On every project, they bring quality craftsmanship and expert knowledge. Here are their top 4 tips for spring roof maintenance.

1. Clean your gutters

When spring arrives, one of the first things you should do is clean your gutters. During winter, debris often builds up in gutters and downspouts. This causes severe issues in spring if not dealt with properly. Dirt, twigs, leaves, and other materials clog gutters. Water on your roof is unable to drain correctly. The water can seep through your shingles or fall off the roof and pool around the foundation. Pooling can cause water and foundation damage.

2. Inspect your shingles

Check for loose, curling, or missing shingles. Winter winds and extreme weather can damage shingles. This is a problem because shingles protect your home from moisture. Without robust shingles, water gets past your roof and into your house’s structure. This can cause severe long-term trouble. If your shingles have sustained damage over winter, you will need to do roof repair or a roof replacement this spring.

3. Check the soffit and fascia

Soffit and fascia play an essential role in preventing roof and shingle damage. If they’re not maintained or damaged, they become a place for water to collect. Also, they help prevent pests like wasps or squirrels from getting into the eave and attic. If your soffit or fascia are damaged, OCR Strong can offer recommendations for a repair or replacement to ensure your home is protected and maintaining its value.

4. Get an inspection

Professional roof contractors know exactly what to look for. They can identify potential problems before they become critical repair requirements. Often, homeowners schedule roof inspections once they see a blatant sign of damage. However, it’s easy to miss less obvious issues that can still cause significant problems later. An experienced roofer can give you a thorough roof assessment and determine if you need any repairs. Their expert opinion is crucial to maintaining a solid roof.

Roofing in Ottawa

OCR Strong offers roofing services for residential and commercial properties in Ottawa. They provide estimates, inspections, maintenance packages, repairs, and new installations and do things right the first time with quality craftsmanship.

Contact OCR Strong for all your roofing needs!

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

Do you have a project that just isn’t getting done or a list of small repairs that keep growing? In that case, getting some extra help can make all the difference. Hiring a handyman will help you get through all those projects and boost your home’s value at the same time. They can even handle a variety of jobs and with a range of skills that guarantee top quality. 

Capital Labour Solution in Ottawa is a professional handyman services company. They share the many ways they can help with any home improvements or projects:

Painting projects

A new paint job is a multi-beneficial project that a handyman can help with. Small touch-ups keep your home looking in top shape, but they can be time-consuming. New paint colours will give any room a whole new look and feel, either alone or as part of a renovation. A new look that focuses on a neutral colour is also a great way to prep your home for potential buyers. Still, painting a single room or your whole home takes time and requires some skill. If you live a busy life or don’t have the right painting tools, a handyman can take care of it.

Minor repairs and odd jobs

Are there gaps in the windows, a creaking floorboard, chips, or cracks in the drywall? Whatever minor damages are bringing down the appeal of your home, you don’t have to live with them. Calling in a handyman means they can help with minor repairs around your home. Even the minor things like holes in the walls from old photos are an easy task for a handyman to patch up.

Plus, once you have a handyman in your home, they can also handle any other odd jobs you may have. Things like installing a TV mount, shelving, garbage removal or furniture assembly. A handyman is “handy” in whatever help or skill you need.

More free time and less injuries

Two of the great benefits of hiring a handyman are the extra free time and the lack of any risk of personal injury. A handyman will quickly work through your long list of repairs and to-dos, so you don’t have to. Once that list is done, you can enjoy the benefits of all that extra free time and less stress on your mind.

With a handyman’s skill and experience, they can handle work you might not feel comfortable with. Gutter repair and cleaning, for example, can be risky if you’re balancing on a ladder trying to clean. A handyman, however, has years of experience doing work like that, so they can do it safely and efficiently. 

Handyman Services in Ottawa

At Capital Labour Solutions, one call is all it takes to get help on any home project, repairs, or renovations you have. Their team has years of experience and a range of services, so no project is too big or small. They can help with general house maintenance, painting, furniture assembly, gardening and much more. 

Contact Capital Labour Solution today!

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

8 Things to Consider for a Bathroom Remodel

A well-designed bathroom can add value to your home, increase its resale value, and improve your overall quality of life. The average American spends over $1,500 per year on their bathrooms alone. That means that investing in a bathroom remodel is a smart move.

If you’re thinking about a bathroom remodel here are a few things to consider:

Getting Started

The first step when planning any bathroom remodel project is to determine what kind of design you want for your bathroom. Are you looking for something modern, traditional, or somewhere in between? Once you know what type of style you want, you can start shopping around for materials.

Bathroom Design Ideas

Once you decide on a specific design, it’s time to think about how much money you want to invest in a bathroom remodel. You may not need to completely gut your bathroom if you only plan to redo certain parts of it. For example, if you just want to replace old fixtures, you could do so for less than $2,000. However, if you want to completely redesign your bathroom, you might have to budget more than $10,000.

Bathroom Flooring Options

You can find many kinds of tiles online. Many people prefer ceramic because of its durability and ease of cleaning. Porcelain and marble are popular choices for countertops. Sinks and tubs come in a variety of styles including pedestal, under-mount, and freestanding.

Sink & Shower

There are many different types of sinks available today. Choose from single bowl, double bowl, and even dual-sink designs. Shower stalls usually come with a frameless glass door. Other common bathroom features include towel racks, medicine cabinets, and mirror frames.

Lighting

Lighting is an important part of any bathroom. Depending on where you live, you may already have access to natural light. In other cases, you may need to install additional lights. When selecting lighting, consider the size of your bathroom. You don’t want too much overhead lighting, but you also don’t want to go too dark.

Bathroom Cabinetry

Cabinets are another essential part of any bathroom. They provide storage for your bathroom essentials like towels, toiletries, and linens. You can choose from a wide range of cabinet styles including traditional, modern, and contemporary.

Bathroom Tile Styles

Tile is one of the most versatile bathroom materials. You can use it to create backsplashes, floors, walls, and counters. The style of tile you select will depend on what kind of bathroom you’re designing. Modern bathrooms often feature sleek, clean lines. Traditional bathrooms tend to be more ornate.

Paint Colors

Paint colors are another important consideration when planning your bathroom remodel. Think about the color scheme you want to achieve. Do you want something bright and cheery? Or would you rather opt for a neutral shade that complements your current decor?

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 Bathroom Remodel Tips appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

There are a few ways to maximize value and appeal for exterior paint renovations. Using the correct type of paint will last for years, protect your home, and boost curb appeal. Linseed paint is one type of paint that offers all that and more, making it an excellent investment.

Once in a Lifetime Painting in Winnipeg is a professional painting company that uses organic, chemical-free paint. They share the benefits of using linseed paint to boost value and curb appeal:

What is linseed paint?

Linseed oil paint is a type of paint that is made using natural ingredients, including linseed seed oil and natural pigments. Since there are added chemicals, the paint is VOC-free and safe for most people with allergies. The paint also won’t need to be diluted with solvents, so the colour stays pure and robust for years.

Multi-surface use

Unlike other paints, linseed paint penetrates surfaces for a deeper, longer-lasting result. It needs little maintenance, and pure linseed oil paint never cracks or peels once applied. No moisture is trapped in the paint, so it won’t risk rotting the surface even when applied to wood. The paint can be applied to almost any surface, including already painted ones. Any trim, siding, metal surfaces, or windows can be painted with linseed paint.

Cost-effective

While the initial cost of linseed paint tends to be higher than other paints, you get more coverage. One gallon of regular paint will cover around 400 sq. ft., while linseed paint can cover around 650 sq. ft. In addition, once applied, linseed paint will last for 15 years or more with no maintenance needed. Regular paint tends to need repaint or repair after a couple of years, so the cost will slowly creep up. With linseed paint, you’ll only save more money over the years and enjoy your new curb appeal for longer. Get some ideas for your project with these home exterior paint colour ideas.

Work with a professional

The final piece to maximizing the value and appeal of your exterior paint job is to work with a professional. Companies like Once in a Lifetime Painting specialize in using chemical-free and organic paints. Their team also uses a “heat and scrape’ technique to help remove old layers of paint to create a fresh surface. With their help and expertise, they’ll handle the significant undertaking of painting your home’s exterior. Relying on professional service saves more time, money in the long run and ensures a quality look and finish.

Painters in Winnipeg

Once in a Lifetime Painting is more than just a company name; it’s part of their insurance to their customers. When their team helps with a paint job, they guarantee the results will last for years. Whether interior or exterior, no matter how big or small the job, their team is always ready to help. They’re Winnipeg’s only organic, chemical-free painting company!

Contact Once in a Lifetime Painting today!

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

Cabinet refinishing is a cost-effective way to give your kitchen and cabinets a whole new look and feel. Upgrading and maintaining your kitchen cabinets will help your home maintain function and value.

Superior Surface Refinishing Inc. in Winnipeg is a professional refinishing company that offers refinishing services for cabinets, bathtubs, tiles, countertops and more. They share some signs that it’s time to refinish your cabinets:

Outdated appearance 

If everything else in your kitchen has been given a new look, but your cabinets haven’t, they’ll bring down the appeal. Since cabinets take up so much visual space in the kitchen, their look plays a significant role in the overall design. If you aren’t one to follow trends, choose an ageless colour for your cabinets. All-white is a classic look that complements any kitchen and will last through any trend. For a touch of colour, pastel shades or grey tones are both timeless choices.

You’re on a budget 

Updating the kitchen to boost your home’s appeal is a great renovation decision, especially if you plan to sell. However, renovations can be costly, so refinishing can still offer that new look without a full cabinet replacement. This is ideal if you’re on a strict budget.

Cabinets that are still in working condition will look brand new and add a new feel to your kitchen and home. Refinishing involves stripping the cabinets and applying a new stain or a new paint colour. Even with a budget, hiring a professional is still worth the cost. They’ll handle the work quickly, efficiently, and with a quality touch that boosts that ROI. Between the time saved and the flawless professional results, it’s an investment that’s always worthwhile.

The paint is flaking or faded 

When was the last time you had your cabinets repainted or professionally refinished? Maybe it has been a few years, or you’ve noticed the paint is flaking or looks faded. Either way, when the paint job starts to look bad, it’s a good sign you need to refinish the look.

Flaking paint could signify that the old paint job wasn’t done correctly, or the paint is just getting old. Fading happens when the cabinets are exposed to direct sunlight for years. Applying a protective coating to your new refinishing will help prevent any fading from happening again.

Superior Surface Refinishing uses urethane hardened paint that is much more durable than regular or standard paints. Your new paint job will be easy to clean, maintain, and will last for years to come.

Cabinet Refinishing in Winnipeg

Superior Surface Refinishing Inc. prides itself on helping homeowners transform their homes at the right price. Using innovative refinishing systems and processes they provide affordable alternatives to the high cost of a full replacement. Their team can help handle the work, offer guidance, and always guarantee a quality, value-adding result every time.

Contact Superior Surface Refinishing Ltd. today!

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

Staircases have an essential function in our homes. But, staircases also contribute to the broader design of our home. They add visual interest, help create the aesthetic and mood, and complement the existing interior design. A beautifully designed staircase makes a statement. When choosing a staircase, there are a few factors to consider.

Artistic Stairs in Calgary and Edmonton offer a world of design possibilities for your new staircase and have manufactured staircases locally since 1979. Here are things to consider when choosing stairs for your home.

1. Space

Consider the building dimensions whenever you want to add a new feature to your home. The amount of available space dictates the design. A well-designed staircase makes the most of the space you have. The size of your house impacts the staircase design, particularly the width and shape.

2. Design

The available space and overall interior design of your home help to determine the staircase design. Stairs come in many shapes and sizes. Some of these include straight flights, curved stairs, spiral staircases, half-turned staircases, and quarter-turned staircases. Each type makes a unique visual statement. Therefore, it’s important to consider not only what category of staircase will fit best in your home, but which matches the aesthetic.

3. Materials

The materials making up your new staircase create its aesthetic. There are many options so you can choose which works best in your home. Four of the most popular stair materials are wood, glass, metal, and concrete. Wood can be painted or stained to enhance its natural colour. For traditional, modern, or rustic-themed homes, wood is an excellent choice. Artistic Stairs in Edmonton and Calgary recommend metal for bold contemporary or industrial homes, and glass for a modern look.

4. Handrails and balusters

Like all parts of a staircase, handrails and balusters must be multifunctional. They have to look good and be strong enough to bear weight. Additionally, they have to go with your home’s design. Artistic Stairs offer a variety of options for handrails and balusters. This includes wood balusters and metal railings.

5. Budget

Your budget will dictate how your staircase will be designed. How much money you have to spend affects the style, shape, size, materials, and balusters. For example, straight flights cost less than a curved staircase. Your contractor will be able to help you find the right option for your house and your budget. Custom staircases can be designed with you and your budget in mind.

Stair Builders in Calgary and Stair Builders in Edmonton

Artistic Stairs provide premium, locally manufactured spindles, stairs, railings, banisters, and more. Their team of seasoned craftsmen are highly-skilled and detail-oriented, ensuring that installation will be a breeze. They have showrooms in Calgary and Edmonton, and a large catalogue available online.

Contact Artistic Stairs today!

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