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Blog submitted by Bali Brothers in Richmond 

As a homeowner, building a custom home can be an exciting process. However, it can also be very time-consuming and difficult to balance between work and personal commitments. There are many things to consider and countless decisions to be made. The top 5 things to consider when planning to build a custom home are as follows:

General Contractor

One of the most important things to consider is hiring a suitable general contractor. From the design phase to completion, you will be working with the general contractor for at least 12 months. Thus, it is important to work with someone you connect with and trust who has a track record of building high-quality homes and all of the required certifications, including a home builder’s license, 2-5-10 warranty, and contractor’s general liability insurance. It is helpful to meet face-to-face with the general contractor and compile a list of questions to ask to see if they would be a good fit for your custom home build.

Timeline

From the initial design phase to getting the keys to your new home, the entire process can take anywhere from 12-15 months, which does not include the time it takes to get city-approved permits in hand. The timeline can be broken down as follows:

– Design: 2-3 months
– Permits: Varies by the municipality
– Construction: 9-12+ months

As experienced custom homebuilders in Vancouver, we provide our client with a detailed project schedule outlining the work to be completed each week and updates if we are ahead of schedule or if there are expected delays. This allows our clients to be in the loop with the project schedule and keeps them excited for what’s in store at their custom home build!

Budget

With rampant inflation, the construction sector was not immune and experienced a series of price increases across the board for construction materials. The cost to build even three years ago is quite different than it is today. As building a custom home is a significant financial investment, it is imperative to set a detailed budget.

At Bali Brothers Construction, we work with our clients to not only set a detailed, line-by-line budget but also assist with weekly cost tracking against budget. This makes our clients aware of any cost overages or savings. This allows our clients to know in real-time how they are doing against budget and if they need to make changes to material selections in other categories due to any cost overages or savings.

Project Planning

Planning is the most important part of the home-building process. While waiting for permits, it is the ideal time to finalize materials for both the interior and the exterior of the home. This step often involves consultations with our team, the architect, interior designer and visiting various supplier showrooms.

Having material selections finalized prior to construction helps ensure that there will be no schedule delays due to material selection or procurement. The selection of materials is a time-consuming endeavour. Therefore, giving yourself as much time as possible prior to construction commencing will ensure you have sufficient time to make decisions. It ensures these decisions are not holding up construction progress on site.

Design

This is your overall vision for your custom home build project. And your architect and interior designer will help bring your vision to life! It always helps to find ideas for interior/exterior design on the internet. Then, you can accurately showcase to your architect and interior designer what you are looking for. The interior and exterior design of your home has a direct impact on the cost of the project. So depending on the budget, you may need to decide between “must-haves” and “nice to haves” when finalizing the overall design.

Let Us Help with Your Next Custom Home Project!

We hope that the information provided will help you when planning your next custom home project.

If you are thinking of starting a custom home build and need some help, please feel free to contact us directly via email or phone and we would be happy to help! You can also learn more about Bali Brothers Construction by visiting our website: https://www.balibrothersconstruction.com/ 

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

The goal of many renovations is to have a home reflect a style. New countertops can help with renovation-style goals, no matter the material. Between the countertop materials, you have colour, texture, and finish options, too. For example, some homeowners may want neutral tones, while others may be after flair with bright hues.

Persaj Countertops in North Vancouver have a wide range of products and materials to help your renovations reflect any style for any purpose. They can help you find suitable material with a countertop consultation and these quick material style guides. Persaj also works with signature countertop brands due to their exceptional quality.

Dekton countertops

Persaj Countertops in North Vancouver are authorized installers of Dekton composite stone products. Composite, or engineered stone, is a preferred choice for modern kitchen and bathroom renovations. With materials like Dekton, you have far more style choices than regular stone or concrete countertops.

For example, you can select a solid neutral colour, a combination of neutrals with a marbled effect, or a marble effect with glittery material. Dekton also comes in styles that imitate concrete or solid stone. The Dekton options can create a modern and clean look, a warm look, an industrial look, and more.

Silestone countertops

This is the most environmentally friendly countertop material offered by Persaj Countertops. Silestone countertops, a composite material, contain no less than 20% recycled products. There are three finish styles alone: polished, suede, or volcano (bumpy). In addition, Persaj can install a few brightly coloured Sensa styles like Posidonia Green, Cala Blue, or Arcilla Red.

Sensa countertop

Sensa is an excellent countertop option for those who want variety and a different or new look. It is a granite and quartzite composite material, and its most appealing feature is its stain resistance. But there are some style benefits to Sensa countertops, too. Persaj’s experts can install Sensa countertops in various fun and unique looks. For example, they can have texture even after polishing. In addition, Persaj works with Cosentino countertop products, a high-quality line that creates Sensa, Silestone, and Dekton materials.

Other countertop materials

Persaj can assist with professional installations and design consultations for marble, porcelain, and other natural stones. Natural and pure countertop materials will offer limited design and style choices than composite countertops. You will need to accept these countertops as they are in their natural state. Then, you can apply polishing and finishing to the natural materials to your liking.

Countertops in North Vancouver

Persaj Countertops in North Vancouver offers consultations and installations of their feature brands. Their feature countertop brands include Sensa Granite, Cambria Natural Stone Surfaces, Silestone quartz, and Dekton composite stone. In addition to these brands, Persaj’s professional installation team works with other quartz, marble, and porcelain. They use style and budget consultations to help you find the best material for your home’s style, maintenance requirements, and budget.

Contact Persaj Countertops today.

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

When it comes to making improvements to your home, there are certain projects that can increase its value. Whether you’re looking to sell your home in the near future or just want to make sure it retains its value over time, investing in certain home improvement projects is a great way to do so. From updating the kitchen and bathrooms to adding energy-efficient features, here are some of the best home improvement projects that will increase your home’s value.

Updating the Kitchen

Updating the kitchen is one of the best home improvement projects to increase your home’s value. From replacing outdated appliances to installing new countertops and cabinets, there are many ways to give your kitchen a modern makeover. Installing energy-efficient appliances can also help reduce your utility bills while increasing the resale value of your home.

Renovating the Bathroom

Renovating the bathroom is another great way to increase your home’s value. From replacing outdated fixtures and tile to adding new lighting, there are many ways to give your bathroom a modern look. Installing energy-efficient features such as low-flow toilets and showerheads can also help reduce your utility bills while increasing the resale value of your home.

Adding Energy-Efficient Features

From replacing old windows and doors with more efficient models to installing solar panels, there are many ways to make your home more energy-efficient.

Installing New Flooring

Installing new flooring is another great way to increase your home’s value. Whether you choose hardwood, tile, or laminate, installing new flooring can give your home a fresh look and feel.

Replacing Windows and Doors

Old, drafty windows and doors can be a major source of energy loss, so replacing them with more efficient models can help reduce your utility bills while also increasing the resale value of your home.

Finishing the Basement

Finishing the basement is another great way to increase your home’s value. Whether you choose to turn it into an extra bedroom, a family room, or a home office, finishing the basement can add valuable living space to your home.

Landscaping and Curb Appeal Improvements

Landscaping and curb appeal improvements are also great ways to increase your home’s value. From adding new plants and trees to improving the exterior of your home, there are many ways to make your home look more attractive. Installing a new driveway or walkway can also help improve the overall look of your property while increasing its value.

Investing in Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology can make your life easier and more convenient while also increasing the resale value of your home. From installing a smart thermostat to adding voice-activated lighting, there are many ways to upgrade your home with the latest technology.

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 Home Improvement Projects That Will Increase Your Home’s Value in 2023 appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Energy rates and bills seem to be soaring. But there are steps homeowners can take to slow or stop the increase in energy bills. One of the best places to start is residential lighting. Home lighting renovations for boosting energy efficiency can be applied to new home construction or renovations on existing homes.

Lighting is an essential part of any home. And Pax Electrical Installations Ltd. in Edmonton offers various professional services to help turn your home into a more energy-efficient space.

Convert to LED lighting

Any residential lighting, whether interior or exterior, can be replaced with LED bulbs. Many older homes were fitted initially with standard incandescent bulbs. However, both fluorescent and LED bulbs beat out incandescent bulbs in efficiency and average lifespan. But fluorescent lighting gives off a white light, which can be less pleasing than the glow of yellower lights.

LED lamps can offer you both white and yellow lighting. And you can replace old holiday lights with LEDs for bulbs that won’t heat up. Pax Electrical Installations will ensure you have the correct type of LED fixtures and bulbs for your interior or exterior. And their Master Journeyman electricians can suggest which energy-saving bulbs are best in different areas.

Add sensors or dimmer switches.

We often don’t need to use all of the light we get when we flip on a switch. Sometimes, the lighting can be too harsh or bright and too much for what we need. But lighting accessories like motion sensors or dimmer switches help eliminate that unnecessary energy consumption.

In addition, a motion sensor can be helpful for anyone who is forgetful about turning off lights. And they can provide additional security to home exteriors. Dimmer switches offer a similar function and allow you to control the amount of light produced by one bulb. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to dim the lights to set the mood!

Electricians in Edmonton

If you want to boost the energy efficiency of your home’s electrical system, call Pax Electrical Installations Ltd. They have over 18 years of serving Edmonton and the surrounding areas. Pax Electrical Installations Ltd. offers lighting and electrical services for residential and commercial clients. They can assist with bathroom and kitchen renovations and basement or legal suite developments. Other electrical installations they offer include EV chargers, CCTV or security cameras, networking setups, air conditioners, and audio-visual equipment.

Contact Pax Electrical Installations Ltd. for electrical installations or their 24-7 emergency services.

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

Most people looking for handyman services typically start with only one project in mind. Then, once the handyman’s time is booked, homeowners often realize they may have other things that need fixing. This can turn a simple quote for a single job into something more complicated and expensive.

In this article, MyHoneyDoList in Edmonton explains how they can save you money with their packaged services.

A La Carte or a Packaged Deal?

MyHoneyDoList.ca compares buying packaged handyman services to taking advantage of packaged deals at the mechanic. When you take your vehicle to the mechanic, choosing a package offers greater value because instead of separately paying to fix your brakes and do an oil change, package deals tend to be better options as more services will already be included. In other words, you’ll get a lot more done at an all-inclusive price.

The same can apply to packaged handyman services. That’s why MyHoneyDoList.ca decided to package them: it makes it easier for clients to take advantage of handyman work in many areas of their homes without feeling the pinch of being charged for each separate item.

Make the most of paid time.

In MyHoneyDoList’s many years of experience in the handyman industry, they’ve noticed that homeowners typically either require help only for one very specific job or, more often than not, they have other things that need servicing as well. So they usually can benefit from a packaged deal approach.  This is because most of their clients realize that, while they’re already paying for a skilled professional to work on their property, they might as well make the best use of it and get more done.

As a result, they end up with a list of jobs for their handyman. MyHoneDoList’s pricing structure was designed exactly with that in mind, to provide transparent, no-nonsense pricing for their clients for the best value. It’s a pricing structure based on distinct time frames instead of separate services.

Package Options that cover all the bases

At MyHoneyDoList.ca, they offer three packages to clients. This eliminates the complication of assigning prices to the many services offered while providing the best value to customers. This way, regardless of the services you need, you can find a package option that’s right for you.

Their first package provides a half-hour of service for a quick, specific job. Their second package offers a half-day of handyman services. Clients who have a job requiring 3-4 hours of work, or maybe a handful of more minor issues that need attending to, can opt for this package. Last but certainly not least, MyHoneyDoList.ca provides a full day of service for longer lists or bigger jobs. With options two and three, clients can feel free to fill in service time with as many jobs as possible without worrying about pricing. It’s very liberating!

Handyman Services in Edmonton

MyHoneyDoList.ca has been offering handyman services in Edmonton since 2017. The company’s owner comes to the construction industry with a wide range of experience that began when he was a teenager, working for his Dad’s construction company and, through the years, expanded into other areas, including the military and Shaw/Telus work, culminating with computer-assisted drafting for home design.

As a result, MyHoneyDoList.ca provides clients with a comprehensive list of services, including framing, drywalling and painting services, as well as plumbing and electrical repairs and HVAC/HRV essential maintenance. Other services include all sorts of odd jobs, fixing decks, fences, gates, and much more!

Contact MyHoneyDoList today! You’ll be glad you did!

Click To Find >>>> Handyman Services in Edmonton.

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

At first, the benefits of a professionally landscaped yard appear obvious. We might instantly think of how professional landscaping makes a yard look new or improved. Curb appeal is, of course, a benefit to any outdoor home renovation project. In addition, a beautifully landscaped yard can give the property a more natural look. Or, landscape designs can be created to stand out.

Mohr’s Landscaping Services in Sherwood Park offer services that can take your property from dull to beautiful and functional. Additionally, their landscaping services will help you quickly see the other significant benefits of landscaping.

Landscaped yards can simply make you feel good

When you create a thoughtful landscape on your property, you create a place to escape. And even with Alberta’s cold weather, there are many possibilities for creating your own oasis. Mohr’s Landscaping Services work with a variety of materials, plants, and florals, so you can make your backyard more enjoyable or peaceful. In addition, they can help you add different colours or textures- anything you see as a mood booster.

Landscaping expands your living space

Landscaping, even with grass or greenery, gives you more space to do the things you enjoy. Stonework, for example, can add entertainment areas to your backyard, like a patio or campfire area. And artificial grass can provide your children safer areas to play outside. Mohr’s Landscaping in Sherwood Park can help you add more living spaces like these. Additionally, they can help you make sense of the space you already have on your property. Maybe an underutilized area of your property can be transformed to create usable space.

Professional landscaping saves you money

There are many different working parts of a large-scale landscaping project. And each of those functional parts will require its own tools and equipment. Laying sod, for example, requires different equipment than laying a stone walkway. Unfortunately, equipment or those tools are expensive to rent or buy. So when you hire professionals like Mohr’s Landscaping Services, you avoid costly equipment fees. And you won’t need to learn how to use any of it; their team is certified and fully trained in all the different aspects of landscaping. These include landscape design, stonework, concrete work, tree removal and planting, retaining wall construction, or sod and artificial grass laying.

Landscaping in Sherwood Park

A landscape redesign quickly becomes more appealing when you dig deeper into the benefits. And when you use the right professional team for any landscaping project, those benefits quickly become apparent. Mohr’s Landscaping Services, serving the greater Edmonton area, can show you how to create more enjoyable outdoor spaces, and larger living spaces, through their high-quality workmanship. They offer full-service landscaping for residential, commercial, and municipal projects.

Contact Mohr’s Landscaping Services today.

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

Concrete is a sturdy building material with many advantages and an excellent choice for driveways. However, no driveway will last indefinitely. Eventually, it will need to be replaced.

ConTile Industries in Edmonton are expert concrete contractors. They offer tips on knowing when it’s time to remove and replace your concrete driveway.

1. It’s 20 years or older

Even a high-quality driveway will not last forever. If your driveway is more than 20 years old, you should replace it. By this time, your driveway is probably looking worse for wear. You might see signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, staining, and crumbling. 

2. Deep cracks

Colder climates are especially harsh on concrete. After all, your driveway is victim to the catastrophic freeze-thaw cycle. This often leads to deep cracks and potholes that cannot be repaired. Surface-level cracks, on the other hand, can be replaced. However, too many cracks of any kind are a sign that your driveway is nearing the end of its life.

3. There’s standing water

Standing water can mean that your driveway is sinking. This is a serious issue and a definitive cause for replacement. The water that lingers on the concrete weakens the driveway, creating additional potholes and cracks.

Of course, standing water can also indicate a drainage issue. While pooling water is terrible for your driveway, it can be devastating for your home. Improperly graded driveways function as slides, ushering the water toward your home’s foundation and basement. This leads to expensive water damage.

4. Spiderweb cracks

Spiderweb cracks are another indicator that your driveway needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, such damage is beyond repair. If left, spiderweb cracks will continue to spread, and the condition of your driveway will continue to degrade. These cracks may also look like scales.

5. Diminishing curb appeal

Your driveway is an essential part of your home’s overall curb appeal. Cracked and damaged driveways create a run-down and shabby exterior appearance, which negatively affects your home’s resale value. So replacing your existing damaged driveway is a good idea if you’re hoping to sell any time soon.

6. You want to replace your garage floor

If your garage floor is damaged, sinking, or cracked, you might want to replace it with a new concrete floor. Having your garage or shop floor replaced at the same time as your driveway is a smart idea. Then your concrete contractor can send a crew to get both done simultaneously. That could save you on labour costs and reduce the time you’re out of a garage and driveway! Reach out to ConTile Industries about replacing your garage or large shop floor.

Concrete Contractors in Edmonton

ConTile Industries offer residential and commercial contracting services to homeowners and businesses in Edmonton. Their concrete finishers are all Certified Journeymen, and Red Seal endorsed. They deliver quality workmanship and customer service every time. Improve your home with a new concrete driveway this spring!

Contact ConTile Industries!

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

A kitchen renovation can be a daunting project. There are so many things to consider and so many possibilities. So how do you know where to start? What changes will have the most significant impact? Here are our top 4 tips for things to change to improve the look and function of your kitchen.

Integrity Construction Solutions in Sherwood Park provide professional kitchen renovations.

1. Cabinets

New kitchen cabinets can completely change the look and feel of the room. Updating the cabinets allows you to modernize your dated kitchen and add new life to the uninspiring space. Today, many different styles of cabinets are available, so it’s easy to find one that suits your preferences. Custom cabinets are the best way to get the look and dimensions you need.

Choosing your new cabinets early in the renovation process is essential. Whatever style you choose will affect all of your other design choices.

2. Backsplashes

Like most kitchen elements, backsplashes must be aesthetic and functional. In addition, kitchens are inherently wet environments, so it’s crucial to choose a water-resistant or waterproof material that’s easy to clean. Remember, you are going to be wiping this area down a lot!

You can choose a single-surface backsplash, like a piece of stone or porcelain, or opt for tiles. However, remember that the grout used with tiles can be a pain to clean. Learn more about kitchen backsplash materials here.

3. Appliances

A kitchen renovation is a perfect time to upgrade your appliances. Newer appliances are more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. They also offer modern features, better performance, and a more aesthetic look.

Remember to choose your appliances first if you’re also updating your cabinetry. You should already know the dimensions of your new appliances before the cabinets are installed. Otherwise, you may have to redo the cabinets if there isn’t enough room for the appliances. 

4. Kitchen island

Why not add a kitchen island? An island is a great way to expand your kitchen’s usable space. For example, you can add countertop space, an additional sink, more storage, or another eating area. Furthermore, you can even use a kitchen island to hide another appliance.

Kitchen islands can be as big or as small as you want. However, it depends on the size of your kitchen and your own unique needs.

Kitchen Renovations in Sherwood Park

Integrity Construction Solutions offer interior and exterior residential renovation services to homeowners in Sherwood Park. For example, they remodel kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and decks and create beautiful custom cabinetry. No matter the size or scope of your renovation project, you can rely on Integrity Construction Solutions for excellent customer service and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Contact Integrity Construction Solutions today!

Click To Find >>>> Kitchen Renovations in Sherwood Park.

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

Our electricity needs have changed over the years. Consequently, many homes now need to use more electricity than what their electrical systems were built for. If you live in an older home, there are many reasons why you may need to upgrade your electrical panel. In addition, there are other reasons why upgrading will benefit you and your home.

Hauer Power Electrical Inc. in Edmonton shares more about when it might be time for an electrical panel upgrade.

Issues with power capacity

If you experience circuit tripping from time to time, or even frequently, this is a good sign you need to upgrade your electrical panel. In today’s world, we ask a lot about our electrical systems. Modern electronics, appliances, and other new devices can overload your system and lead to circuit tripping. In addition, it can also lead to other more hazardous electrical issues.

In an older home, your panel could use 60 amp electrical service, which is not enough for today’s usage needs. Upgrade to 100 amp or 200 amp to make sure your home can handle your power capacity. If you have a 100 amp service but are planning upgrades that require more power, speak to Hauer Power about an upgrade. For example, installing a hot tub or electric vehicle charger could require additional capacity.

Insurance companies requirements

On top of power capacity, insurance companies have their own requirements for electrical systems. If your home is older and uses 60 amp service, your insurance company may not provide coverage. Insurance companies now ask for 100 amp-rated services and equipment to insure your home. To bring in 100 amps, an electrician must change the electrical panel, service mast, wires and meter base.

Safety concerns

Did you know that faulty electrical equipment is a leading cause of house fires? Electrical equipment will break down over time. As a result, circuit tripping happens. Furthermore, breaking down and old electrical systems do not trip can lead to increased heat, buzzing from your electrical panel, and flickering lights. This could lead to a house fire or other hazardous event.

You can prevent these dangers when you upgrade your electrical panels and other electrical equipment. Today, AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupters) are used for electrical safety. AFCI limit circuit ampacity. They will also protect against electrical arcing in walls or electrical boxes.

Electricians in Edmonton

Hauer Power Inc. uses a team of trustworthy electricians to deliver electrical services to customers in Edmonton. They are also a company with a strong belief in outstanding customer service. As a result, they make it their mission to provide fair pricing without using extra charges or hidden fees. They also commit to exceeding client expectations.

Safety is a top priority with Hauer Power Inc., and so is quality work. Their residential electrical services include after-hours emergency services, new construction, 100 amp and 200 amp service upgrades and more. On top of the plethora of residential services they provide, they also service commercial facilities.

Contact Hauer Power Inc. today to upgrade your electrical panel and discuss your electrical needs.

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

Home automation isn’t only reserved for the rich and tech-savvy. Its technology is becoming more popular and more affordable amongst homeowners everywhere. It’s no surprise, either. There continue to be technological advancements in the smart home industry. As a result, homeowners are finding this tech easier to use and life-changing.

In this article, Enerpro Electrical Services in Calgary shares ways to upgrade your home to include automation in 2023.

Security cameras and monitoring

With smart home security, you can view cameras installed around your home from your smartphone or other devices. You can even install a doorbell camera, so you’ll always know who’s coming to call, whether you’re home or not. A smart video doorbell will also allow you to hear and speak back to any visitors. This way, you can communicate about where to leave packages and see where they may be left at your front door.

Advanced HVAC control

Imagine being able to control your home’s temperature from anywhere. With home automation, you can adjust your indoor heating and cooling system using your devices. As a result, you’ll be able to come home to the exact right temperature. Don’t want your teenagers playing around with the thermostat when you’re not home. No problem! You can take care of it all from your device.

Lighting controls and programming 

Automated lighting solutions have many benefits. For example, turning lights on and off from anywhere in the house will save time and energy. When you leave the house but forget to turn off the lights, home automation can take care of this for you. On top of this, with light programming, you can set the mood and dim the lights before you even get home. A nice quiet evening to yourself or a romantic night shared with your partner can begin the minute you walk in the door.

Window Shades Control

The ability to open and close your window shades with the touch of a button is an excellent upgrade. Making use of daylight for as long as possible also helps you capitalize on energy efficiency. In addition, shades programmed to open and close set the scene for various times of the day. Shading systems can provide precise daylight control using no more than your fingertips.

Electricians in Calgary

Enerpro Electrical Services uses a team of skilled professionals to offer a full range of electrical services to both residential and commercial sectors. Some of their services include electrical inspections, repair and replacement, EV charging and Glowstone lighting.

In addition, they also offer home automation services. Enerpro Electrical Services partners with Lutron to provide smart home technology to its clients. Enerpro Electrical Services’ Lutron Pro professionals can install standard-level and advanced-level home automation for homeowners. Use the home automation systems they offer to do all listed in this article and more.

Reach out to Enerpro Electrical Services today to discuss your electrical needs!

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