As winter approaches, you’re going to be relying more and more on your furnace. However, is your furnace up to the task? If you want to avoid astronomical energy bills once the cold arrives, ensure your furnace is in good working order. And if it’s not, it’s time to upgrade.

Habberjam at Home in Edmonton provides heating, cooling, and ventilation services. Here they share five signs it might be time to replace your furnace.

1. Age

Furnaces only last for so long. In fact, you should only expect your furnace to last for an average of 15-20 years. However, maintenance and usage significantly affect your furnace’s life expectancy, and regular, professional maintenance is crucial for performance and longevity.

You should check the age of your furnace, especially if it was already installed when you moved into your home. Your furnace should have a serial number that can be used to determine its age. If you’re not sure, connect with Habberjam at Home. They can provide a complete inspection of your furnace, determine its age and if it is nearing the end of its life.

2. Rising energy bills

As your furnace ages, it becomes less efficient. Professional maintenance can help mitigate this. However, a decrease in performance is inevitable over time. If your energy bills are steadily rising, then your furnace may be ending the end of its life. You can compare usage and cost year-over-year. This year, there has been an increase in energy and distribution charges, so ensure you calculate those increases when determining total cost and usage.

3. More dust

Is your house always dusty- no matter how often you clean? Your furnace may be the culprit. Excessive dust, dirt, soot, and dander indicate something is wrong. While you may just need to replace the filter on your furnace, you may need to replace the furnace itself. First, check the filter. It should be replaced every 90 days or according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Noise

It should be no surprise that if your furnace starts clanking, grinding, or squealing – it’s a bad sign! Once you notice unusual sounds or excessive noise coming from your furnace, call your HVAC technician. Your furnace may have cracks, leaks, or other structural issues that must be repaired. If the wear-and-tear is too severe, you will have to replace your furnace.

5. Frequent breakdowns 

If you constantly call your HVAC technician to fix your furnace, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Professional repairs and retrofitting are a great way to prolong the life of your furnace; however, they only make economic sense for so long. Eventually, frequent repair costs will exceed the cost of simply purchasing a new furnace. Your HVAC contractor can recommend replacing versus repairing when it makes the most sense financially. Learn more about the benefits of upgrading your HVAC.

Furnace Replacement and Installation in Edmonton

Habberjam at Home offers furnace repair, servicing, and replacement to homeowners in Edmonton. Furthermore, they can help your home become greener and more sustainable. During their 20 years in business, they have proven their commitment to excellence and fantastic customer service.

Contact Habberjam at Home today!

Click To Find >>>>> Furnace Replacement and Installation in Edmonton

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

You’ve probably heard that you should have your carpets professionally cleaned. But you have questions. For example, how often should you have them cleaned? And do you need to move all your furniture? We have answers. Keep reading to learn more.

OAB Reliable Carpet Care Inc in Edmonton provides carpet and duct cleaning services to homeowners and businesses. Here they share answers to frequently asked questions about carpet cleaning.

Why should I have my carpets cleaned?

The first reason is obvious: cleanliness. Over time, carpets accumulate dirt, dust, allergens, stains, and smells. This causes them to discolour, appear blotchy, and look haggard. A dirty carpet can also make your indoor allergies worse. Not ideal! Having your carpet cleaned regularly is the best way to preserve its appearance, minimize indoor allergens, and extend the life of your carpet.

How often should I have my carpets cleaned?

This varies from household to household. For example, if someone in your household smokes or has pets or busy children, you should have your carpets cleaned more frequently. Furthermore, if you know your home tends to be more on the messy side of things, regular carpet cleanings will likely be in your best interest.

Typically, carpets should be cleaned at least every 6-9 months, especially in high-traffic areas.

Do I need to vacuum beforehand?

Ideally, yes. Vacuuming beforehand removes debris and ensures a high-quality deep clean. Therefore, it’s recommended (although not mandatory) to vacuum your carpet before the cleaning appointment. Moreover, you should already be vacuuming your carpet regularly as a part of general carpet maintenance.

Vacuuming twice a week helps preserve your carpet’s appearance and keep it in good condition.

Should I move my furniture?

Generally, you aren’t expected to move any of your own furniture before your carpet cleaning appointment. Most cleaning companies will move smaller items out of the way and simply work around large pieces of furniture. However, you should remove all fragile and breakable items before the cleaners arrive.

Will every stain be removed?

Your carpet cleaning company will do their best to remove every stain and discolouration from your carpet. However, some stains are impossible to remove. Consequently, no cleaning company can guarantee that 100% of the stains will be removed.

Professional cleaners do have a remarkably high success rate when it comes to stain removal. After all, they have advanced stain removal formulas and expert processes. This allows them to tackle the most stubborn stains.

Will duct cleaning help?

Duct and furnace cleaning plays a significant role in reducing allergens from your home. It ensures your ducts are free of dust, debris, and other pathogens, so it’s not blowing into your indoor air. Duct cleaning can also help reduce strain on your HVAC system, extending its life and assisting with improved energy efficiency.

OAB Reliable Carpet Care offers carpet cleaning and duct cleaning. Whether you are looking for renovation cleanup or scheduling an annual cleanup, they’re your one-stop shop to reduce allergens and dust at home.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners in Edmonton

OAB Reliable Carpet Care provides high-quality carpet cleaning services to homeowners and businesses in Edmonton. They use modern technology, such as truck-mounted steam cleaning equipment, and expert processes to remove stains and grime from your carpet. Additionally, OAB Reliable Carpet Care offers tile & grout cleaning and duct cleaning services.

Contact OAB Reliable Carpet Care today!

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

Blog submitted by Bali Brothers in Richmond 

With inflation rates in BC one of the highest in Canada, clients have been wondering what the overall impact is on their next home renovation project. The overall cost of bathroom renovations in Vancouver is influenced by many factors, including project scope, quality of materials, and the size of your bathroom.

How much does a bathroom renovation cost?

For a full, mid-grade bathroom renovation, clients should expect to pay between $15,000 to $25,000 + GST, which is inclusive of all labour and materials. For a full, high-end bathroom renovation, this number jumps to over $35,000+ excluding GST. These numbers are based on the average bathroom size, which is approximately 40-50 sq ft. Note, this is a general guideline as each project has its own unique elements that dictate the overall budget.

What is involved in a bathroom renovation?

There are many moving parts in bathroom renovations, so adequate planning is important to ensure that your bathroom renovation brings your design inspiration to life, all while staying within budget. Planning includes the selection of materials, any design/layout changes such as moving plumbing or electrical, and the project schedule including any applicable permits and inspections.

A typical bathroom renovation takes approximately 3-4 weeks to complete. This timeline can be impacted by the availability of trades and materials, scope of work, change orders, and the general contractor. Yes! The general contractor you hire has a major impact on the overall project timeline. A good contractor will produce high quality work, provide sound professional advice, and actively manage subcontractors and the project schedule to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget.

The steps of a bathroom renovation

There are many subcontractors involved in a bathroom renovation project, so maintaining a detailed project schedule is important to ensuring a project gets completed on time. It is best to hire reputable and experienced general contractors to manage and execute the job for you. The high-level steps for completing a bathroom renovation are as follows:

1. Design & Quote – Working with your general contactor to design your dream bathroom and obtaining a quote for the work

2. Material Procurement – Once job is approved, procuring the necessary materials not only saves time and headache down the road, but also maximizes efficiencies on site ensuring a successful project

3. Demolition – This includes the disposal of all elements of the existing washroom in a safe manner. Extra precaution is required if asbestos is present and an abatement is required

4. Plumbing – This includes installing the new tub or shower base, shut-off valves, and replacing any old piping

5. Electrical – This can be completed at the same time as plumbing, and includes the rough-ins for the new fixtures or pot lights to be installed

6. Tub/Shower Surround Waterproofing – This is an important step to ensure the tub/shower surround is moisture-resistant and durable

7. Tile Install – This includes the installation of tiles both in the tub/shower surround and on the floor and walls (if applicable)

8. Painting – This includes painting the walls, ceiling and trim (i.e., baseboards, door casing, etc.)

9. Finishings – This includes installing the vanity, electrical fixtures, mirrors, toilet, and plumbing fixtures

10. Debris Removal & Final Clean – Before we officially complete your project, we ensure all project-related debris is removed and a professional, final clean is undertaken.

Let Us Help with Your Next Bathroom Renovation Project!

We hope that the information provides insight into the different components and help you when planning your next bathroom renovation project. Our experienced team has completed numerous bathroom renovations including both mid-range and high-end projects.

If you are thinking of starting a bathroom renovation project 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

Block management is a role with many responsibilities, which can often be stressful and difficult to keep on top of. Traditionally, a block manager oversees the tasks and orders for communal areas of residential properties, ensuring any issues are addressed and taken care of. Have you ever managed a property? Have you struggled to find an electrician, plumber or handyman for the jobs you need help with? Luckily, at the Handy Squad, we have all the services you need in one place so you can rely on us to help smoothly manage your property without any stress. 

Day in the life of a block manager 

A typical day for a block manager is likely to involve a range of tasks to help keep the property at its highest standard. As well as working on maintaining external areas like gardens and patios, block managers will also help with repairs and other issues in the communal areas. This could include fixing electrical faults, unblock toilet, unblock sink or repairing a dripping tap. At the Handy Squad, we can help in all areas. We can jet wash paving stones whilst our team of London electricians and plumbers get to work on fixing maintenance issues. Our squad operates throughout the London area, with electricians in Camden, plumbers in Shepherds Bush and far more. By partnering up with us, you will have a team that is always on hand to help, creating a fast process when issues do arise.  

The important things to consider 

When taking on the role of block manager there are many important characteristics to consider. You need to be attentive, looking out for issues when they appear and also trying to prevent them from developing further; this is known as preventative maintenance. Have you spotted a crack in the wall? Our handyman can fix cracks in walls or repair ceiling cracks, whilst additionally assessing the severity of these marks. Most cracks are simply cosmetic, but some could signify further structural damage. With the help of our property maintenance services, you can stay on top of these problems, taking away the hassle and stress. This also makes you more appealing to clients as you can prove yourself to be more trustworthy and reliable. 

Choosing the right team to help 

The next thing to consider when choosing a company to help with property maintenance is to find someone trusting and dependable. At the Handy Squad, we are Check a trade approved with a 9.69 average score, showing a high level of customer satisfaction.  

So, you can stop scouring the internet for “decorators near me” every time your property needs a fresh lick of paint. Instead, give us a call on 0800-0-12-12-12 and start making your property management role that bit easier. We will have your tasks underway in no time so that you can focus on maintaining a great relationship with clients.  

The post What is block management property maintenance? appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Curb appeal refers to the exterior appearance of a house or apartment. If you want to sell your home faster or just need an exterior makeover, you’ll need to take care of every detail from the front door to the backyard.

Here are some ways to improve your home’s curb appeal.

1. Paint Your Front Door

Paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to spruce up your home. It can be used in many different ways — as an accent color on trim, for example, or even as a full-on coat of paint.

2. Trim Trees And Shrubs

Trees and shrubs can add beauty to your yard, but if they’re not trimmed properly, they can actually cause damage to your home. Make sure that any trees or shrubs near your home are trimmed regularly, and that their branches aren’t touching anything inside your home.

3. Plant Something New

Adding new plants to your garden gives it a fresh feel. Try planting flowers like petunias or geraniums, or try something completely new like succulents.

4. Keep An Eye Out For Repairs

Repairing small issues such as broken windows or leaky faucets can go a long way toward improving the curb appeal of your home.

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 4 Ways to Add Curb Appeal to Your Home appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Blog submitted by Zeno Renewables in Edmonton

Today, many Alberta homeowners are switching their gas-powered vehicles with electric-powered vehicles. Although you can power your electric vehicle in any EV charging station, many people want the convenience of charging their electric vehicles at home. Thankfully, EV charger installation is now hassle-free for residential homeowners who drive electric vehicles in Alberta.

Types of EV chargers

An EV charger is an electrical device that connects an electric car to the source of electricity. It functions similarly to an electrical device that you charge at home such as your mobile phone. It comes in three main types: level one, level two, and level three.

EV Level 1 Charger: These EV chargers are mostly found in homes. It utilizes a connection to a standard 120-volt outlet and charges 8km per hour taking up to 20 hours to fully charge.

EV Level 2 Charger: These EV chargers are commonly used at home, businesses, and in common areas. It uses a connection to a 240-volt outlet charging 30km per hour. It takes up to 14 hours to fully charge your electric vehicle.

EV Level 3 Charger: These chargers are commonly used in businesses and common areas and are directly connected to an electrical system. It charges 100km per 30 minutes and usually to up to 4 hours to fully charge an electric vehicle.

Benefits of Installing EV Chargers for your home

There are many benefits to installing EV chargers for your home in Alberta. These are just some top reasons why many Albertans choose to install EV chargers.

Convenience:  Why drive to a public EV station when you can have it right in your own home? When you install an EV charging station, you can power your vehicle overnight and have it recharged and ready to drive when you wake up the next day.

Less expensive: Part of the reason people switch to electric vehicles is to hedge against the rising cost of gasoline. You can save money in the long run by having your own EV charging station, especially if you power your vehicle with solar.

More predictable: Depending on where you live, a public EV charging station may not be easily accessible. It can also take you a few hours to charge your vehicle after you arrive there.

Contribute to a sustainable future: Many Alberta homeowners pair their EV charging stations with a solar panel system to offset their EV consumption with renewable energy. Homeowners today want to know exactly where they are sourcing their energy. In addition, they also want to know that they are doing their part in reducing their environmental footprint.

Learn more about the benefits of installing EV chargers for your home.

Choosing an EV Charging Station Installer

Today, there are many EV charging station installers to select from. So, how do you know which EV charging installer you should go with? Here are some top considerations when choosing an EV installer.

Expertise: By choosing an installer that is knowledgeable and qualified, you are safeguarding your assets and the safety of your own home.

Great testimonials:The EV charging station installation process should be convenient, easy, and turnkey. Make sure you go with an installer who has proven expertise and experience. They should also be committed to delivering quality services to their clients.

You plan to get solar in the future: If you are planning to get solar panels for your home in the future, it is always best to go with a company that has experience with installing solar. That way, the company can future-proof any potential solar projects you plan on having down the road.

Learn more about choosing an EV charging station installer

EV Charging Station in Alberta

Zeno Renewables in Edmonton offers expert and innovative technology and the latest research in solar solutions, EV charging installation, and backup battery solutions.  You can have peace of mind knowing that Zeno Renewables in Alberta offers the best products and services for your sustainable energy needs.

Ready to install an EV charging station?

Contact Zeno Renewables today!

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

Are you getting the most out of your basement? A professional renovation can unlock your basement’s potential. This will expand your home’s liveable space, can increase the property value and prevent moisture damage.

Modern Innovations in Edmonton provide high-quality home improvement services, including basement renovations. Here’s why you should develop your unfinished basement.

More living space

Basements are often valuable, underutilized spaces. In fact, finishing your basement is the easiest way to add more living space to your home. On the other hand, home additions are expensive because they have to be built from scratch. Your basement is already there and ready to be transformed into usable space! You can turn it into a separate suite for guests, a downstairs lounge, hosting space for parties, or renovate to accommodate your growing family. Your imagination is the limit!

Improved energy efficiency

Unfinished basements typically lack proper sealing and insulation. Consequently, your home loses considerable heat from the basement. As a result, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your house at the desired temperature. As a result, your monthly energy bills will be higher. Furthermore, your home won’t be as comfortable because the temperature will be inconsistent.

Avoid moisture problems

Moisture easily accumulates in unfinished basements. The lack of insulation and proper sealing means moisture seeps into the structure of your home. As a result, your basement likely feels damp and cold and can even foster mould growth. Mould is toxic and must be dealt with immediately. To prevent this, you should make your home as mould-proof as possible!

Increases the value of your home

A beautifully renovated and finished basement is a huge asset if you ever decide to sell. The ROI for basement remodels is around 70%, meaning you will get most of your money back. Your home may also sell faster with a finished basement since it will look more attractive to prospective buyers. But, of course, your basement renovation must be high-quality to reap these benefits! That is why it’s best to work with an experienced contractor like Modern Innovations.

Basement Renovations in Edmonton

Modern Innovations provide quality, affordable, and experienced construction and renovation services in the Edmonton area, including Parkland County. They offer a full suite of home improvement services such as kitchen and basement remodels, masonry, flooring, and mouldings. Modern Innovations commit to delivering an unparalleled customer experience to all its clients!

Contact Modern Innovations today!

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

Tile is an essential part of every bathroom. It’s functional, water-resistant, and can elevate the interior design if done correctly. Consequently, tile is an excellent choice for bathroom floors, walls, showers, backsplash, and tub surround. However, with so many different tiles to choose from, how do you select the best ones for Calgary bathroom renovations? Here are our top 4 tile tips for your bathroom remodel.

1. Choose one show-stopper

In design, there are focal points, and there are accents. The room will feel busy, chaotic, and disorganized if too many focal points exist. Therefore, it’s essential to be selective when choosing design elements that might scream for attention. Tile can be a fantastic show-stopper and add a lively flair to your bathroom; however, you don’t want to overdo it. It’s recommended to choose one tile that will be the star of the show. Your other tiles should be accents and complimentary without competing for attention.

2. Pick no more than three tiles

Another easy way to make your new bathroom appear cluttered and chaotic is by including too many tiles. After all, less is often more in the world of design! So try to limit yourself to no more than three tiles for your new bathroom. One star and two complimentary! You can add slight visual interest by varying the size, shape, and pattern of your tiles. This can add variation without becoming overwhelming! Consider using different sizes of tiles or using the same tile in different shapes. If one tile has a busy pattern (your star tile), pair it with solid coloured tiles.

3. Don’t forget about the grout

Grout is important and can significantly impact the overall look of your bathroom. It should not be just an afterthought! You should take care when choosing the colour and thickness of the grout as it can emphasize or de-emphasize the tiles.

Thin lines won’t take away from the tiles. Consequently, this is the best option if you want the tiles to stand out and be the star. On the other hand, if you want the grout to be the feature, opt for thicker lines and a contrasting colour.

Keep in mind that white grout shows dirt far more easily. On the other hand, dark grout may show spots from salt buildup over time.

4. Professional installation

The secret to fantastic-looking tiles is a professional installation. High-quality tiles and intentional design are critically important but will only get you so far if you botch the tile installation. Choosing professional and experienced tile installers in Calgary guarantees that your new tile will look just as good as the rest of your new bathroom.

DIYing your own tile installation is tricky and time-consuming. Plus, it always looks better when the pros do it! Furthermore, some tile materials require specialized tools and are even harder to work with. Professional tile installers have the right equipment and the knowledge to work with all varieties of tile.

CJI Tile and Stone for perfect tile installation!

Bathroom renovations in Calgary are not complete without new, beautiful, and professionally installed tile. The tile you choose for your bathroom’s shower, tub surround, floor, walls, and backsplash significantly impacts the design, especially if you want an all-tile bathroom! With so much at stake, choosing an experienced and trusted tile installer is crucial. Fortunately, CJI Tile and Stone in Calgary can help. Their team of Journeyman tile-setters exclusively uses high-quality products to deliver unparalleled and long-lasting results. In fact, all workmanship is backed with a lifetime guarantee.

Contact CJI Tile and Stone today!

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

The bathroom is the obvious place for new tiles. However, tiles are a great option throughout your house due to their appearance, durability, and functionality. They’re an excellent way to enhance the interior design of your home. In addition, tiles are water-resistant and easy to clean, which makes them an excellent choice for workstations and flooring.

1. Kitchen

The kitchen is probably the second most common room to find tile other than the bathroom. And for many good reasons! Tile is water-resistant and easy to clean, which are important features in any kitchen. In addition, kitchens tend to be moist and messy because of cooking, so low-maintenance options are incredibly helpful. Kitchen tile can also be an aesthetic focal point. Consider tile as your kitchen backsplash, or add a pop of colour to your kitchen island.

2. Feature wall

Design is all about adding visual interest. And what better way to spruce up a room than with a tile feature wall? This unique feature can really elevate a space, and there are so many colours, styles, and design options to choose from. Moreover, since a tile feature wall is supposed to attract attention and take up a lot of square footage, it’s crucial to look for experienced and qualified tile installers in Calgary. You do not want any mistakes!

3. Bar area

Incorporating tile into your home’s bar area can add a luxurious flair. Don’t be afraid to choose interesting colours, dark tones, and bold patterns. After all, this is a great opportunity to make a statement! It’s recommended to choose low-maintenance and non-porous tile materials, such as glass or ceramic, that won’t absorb water or stains.

4. Flooring

Tile flooring in Calgary is a great choice throughout your house. It is, however, important to choose a durable type of tile that can withstand foot traffic. Porcelain offers incredible durability and strength, making it one of the popular choices for flooring. Additionally, porcelain is water-resistant and easy to clean like other varieties of tile. This makes it perfect as a flooring material, particularly for mudrooms, entranceways, and kitchens.

5. Fireplace

The fireplace is another great location for a focal point. Installing tile on your fireplace surround is a definitive way to give it the attention it deserves. On the other hand, it can be a great way to add an accent colour to a room. Because tile is so versatile, it can suit any style of home or design preference. 

6. Stone veneer

Solid natural stone may look great, but it’s also heavy and can get expensive. Opting for a stone veneer instead is more affordable and easier to install because there are no weight restrictions. The result is a visually impressive stone look without the price tag or difficult installation. Stone veneer works for your home’s exterior and interior (maybe around that fireplace?).

Renovating your home? CJI Tile and Stone can help

CJI Tile and Stone are a highly experienced tile contracting company that has worked on thousands of home renovations in Calgary. Their contractors are all trained and qualified Journeymen. Consequently, they always deliver exceptional craftsmanship and beautiful results. You can also rely on them for transparent and reliable customer service. So no matter the tiling project- whether it’s a bathroom or a kitchen- CJI Tile and Stone can help.

Contact CJI Tile and Stone today!

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

A custom home build allows you to finally have the home of your dreams. However, these projects are large and complex and require a lot of professional expertise. From project management to design, the success of your custom home build relies on the knowledge and experience of the construction team.

Pircon Group in Calgary is a professional custom home builder. They offer a range of construction services, including project management, general contracting, design, and architecture.

Project Manager

A custom home build is a big project with many moving parts. That’s why you need an experienced project manager at the helm! Project managers oversee the many aspects of construction, including permitting, sourcing, and scheduling. Moreover, they are responsible for quality control. Your project manager reviews the construction process to ensure that the workmanship is top quality and aligns with your vision. They also handle cost control and scheduling to keep your project on time and within budget.

General Contractor

Most general contractors are also project managers. If you have a separate project manager, your general contractor will hone in on construction management and supervision. They oversee all subcontractors and tradespeople. They are also directly responsible for quality control and upholding safety standards. General contractors are incredibly experienced and ensure that everything is done to code.

Architect

Architects create functional floor plans and liveable structures. They think about all the technical details that make your home design work. For example, does the floor plan flow and work for your lifestyle? Where should windows be placed for optimal sun exposure? Are there any creative solutions that maximize functionality in a smaller space? Their understanding of architectural principles and attention to detail can prevent costly design errors. Plus, they help you refine your vision and make it a reality. 

Designer

If architects work with the big picture, then designers are responsible for filling in the details. All and all, a designer turns a house into a home. They have a vast knowledge of design principles and available materials. This allows them to create the perfect design for your lifestyle and tastes. Ideally, your architect and designer work closely to create a cohesive, functional, and beautiful custom home. They will use their combined expertise to determine things like ceiling details, window placement, and the overall layout. Learn more about home design.

Custom Home Builders in Calgary 

Pircon Group is a team of professional construction experts that specialize in custom home builds. They offer everything from consulting to project management to general contracting. Their vast expertise and industry connections allow them to handle every aspect of the design and build process. They are committed to excellence and deliver unparalleled quality.

Contact Pircon Group today!

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