What You Need to Know About Porches and Porch Maintenance

How to Maintain and Improve Your Porch with Porch Maintenance Services

The warm weather and the comforts of home can all be found on your porch. These outdoor spaces are great in between the inside and outside of your home. If you have a porch and are looking into how to maintain and improve it, keep on reading to see what you need to know about porch maintenance.

What is a Porch?

A porch is a framed deck on the outside of your home. Porches can be open or screened in, depending on your tastes or needs. A porch allows you to enjoy that outdoor air without the heat of the sun, keeps you out of the weather and rain, and screened in porches will keep the bugs out too. If you are looking into building a porch for the first time, be sure to check with your local building inspections department to obtain a building permit, if needed.

Porch Maintenance and Improvement

To maintain your porch, it is important to keep it out of harm’s way when it comes to inclement weather and the rain. After a rainstorm, make sure there is no standing water, as this can lead to wood rot and moisture seepage or water stains. Just brush the water off once the storm is done.

Improvement for your porch can be projects such as creating a screened in porch or updating the existing amenities from new railing, posts, installing a porch swing, staining, or sealing the flooring, updating flooring, and more. There are many options, and you can complete projects depending on if an update is needed or it you want to create a new look.

There are many customizable options to a porch while updating. It is important to keep up with porch maintenance to keep it in good shape. Enjoy the outdoor spaces of your home with your porch. If you need help, reach out to local craftspeople to update your porch.

Contact Handyman Connection

Handyman Connection is here to help with your porch maintenance project. Call, text, or contact us to schedule a free estimate.

The post What You Need to Know About Porches and Porch Maintenance appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

When thinking about a home renovation, adding home value is typically at the forefront of a homeowner’s mind. A basement renovation can add a significant return on investment compared to other home updates. As one of the more cost-beneficial renovations, there are ways to increase that value when preparing or thinking about resale options.

DNA Renovations in Edmonton has a few suggestions on basement renovations to improve home value.

Think about the big picture

Instead of converting a basement into a specific space, you will add value by appealing to a wider audience. If you are thinking about resale value, it can be difficult for a potential buyer to be interested when space is renovated for a specific purpose. When considering selling soon, a family room or extra bedroom could be a bigger selling feature than a home spa or gym. If selling isn’t on the horizon, then consider what suits your needs or wants best.

Don’t overlook the staircase

A great way to add space and brighten a dark basement is by opening up the staircase. Installing a more traditional, opened-themed set of stairs will improve the first impression when entering the basement. It also helps to make space feel larger and airy instead of dark and closed off. Let your staircase be a focal point of the room instead of a necessity.

Go with a concept to better suit your needs

Open-concept floorplans have been popular on main floors for the past few years, it’s popular in basements as well. Renovating a basement to have more usable space doesn’t have to mean adding rooms. Adding a second family room can be more beneficial for your needs, or an open concept games room.

A spare bedroom and bathroom are valuable additions, but try to keep a large portion of the basement open. This will help create a blank canvas for potential buyers while allowing you to use the space how you want to in the meantime.

Basement renovations in Edmonton

DNA Renovations is a full-scale renovation company serving Edmonton and surrounding areas. With over 20 years of experience, they are committed to customer satisfaction and providing high-quality work. Whether you’re renovating the basement to increase living space, build a secondary suite, or to increase the value of your home, they can help.

Contact DNA Renovations for your basement upgrade today.

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

Yard work and care takes a lot of work, planning, time, and cost. That’s why working with a professional is a great way to ensure your property is handled right. But when looking for the right company, there’s the matter of finding the right company for your needs and goals.

Phoenix Landscaping in Edmonton is a professional and qualified landscaping maintenance company. They share more about how to find the right landscape company for your needs:

Know what you need 

Before you can hire a company to help, you need to know exactly what you need. Is it a full yard makeover that requires heavy machinery, skilled labour, a design plan? Do you want seasonal property maintenance so you never have to worry about it? Or you just want help now and again with lawn care or clearing away snow in the winter months. Whatever your needs may be, start with narrowing down your goals, needs, and how much you can do alone. That way, you can easily sort through companies and find the right one.

Look at specialties

Specializations are another great way to both find your perfect match but also find qualified companies. A company that has taken the time to train itself in a specific area like fall and spring cleanup or parking lot maintenance. You can take a look at past clients to see how their properties have turned out and get an idea from there.

Ask away!

Don’t be afraid or hesitate to ask questions before hiring a contractor. You don’t have to pick the first company you come across, and the more questions you ask, the better feel for their work you’ll get. Find out how long they have been in business and what qualifications and insurances they have. Ask how they can help with your project, about the cost, and how long it would take. If you’re opting for an ongoing lawn and yard care service, make sure you know exactly what is included. The more information you have, the easier that final decision will be.

Do your research

Look at past reviews, portfolios, and ask around to see what others say about the company. Don’t just focus on costs either, and be sure you aren’t picking the cheapest option without considering others. Even a higher-cost landscape project can easily have a better payoff in the long run and a bigger value boost for your property. A well-maintained property will also retain or increase its value.

Landscapers in Edmonton

Phoenix Landscaping proudly provides the best service, quality, and appeal on every project. Their goal is to leave their customers completely satisfied with their work, so there’s no regret or dissatisfaction. They offer a range of services from seasonal cleanup, fertilizing, ground maintenance, and more.

Contact Phoenix Landscaping today!

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

Accidents and natural disasters happen. Whether your home was impacted by fire, water, hail, or other weather events, you need a trusted general contractor who can help with restoration and renovations. 

Davian Construction in Winnipeg is a full-service renovation company. They specialize in restoring homes after damage from weather, water, or fires. Here’s what you can expect from using their services after disaster strikes. 

Fire damage

Fires can be detrimental to many aspects of a home, including its structural integrity. Before beginning the fire restoration process, Davian Construction will ensure the safety of the site, stabilizing any areas that require it. After clearing out any remaining belongings in the affected area, their team will get started on their assessment.

They’ll begin making a plan for the steps moving forward. To start, this could mean repairing or rebuilding walls and ceilings. Then you might have to choose materials for paint and flooring, and installing any other features that may have been lost. They’ll also provide proper ventilation of the space, and work to remove the smoke odour from the remaining parts of the home.

Water damage

Water damage can come from many sources. It could be problems with the roof, the siding, cracks in the foundation, or a burst pipe. Or, the neighbourhood could have been flooded from an extreme weather event. Excess water can lead to more serious problems down the road, like mould, rot, or the worsening of cracks in your home’s foundation.

If you notice water damage anywhere in your home, address it as soon as possible, in order to prevent further damage from occurring. Davian Construction knows what to do when water damage occurs. They drain and dry the space, remove any areas with mould growth, and work with you to make the necessary repairs to your home. 

Hail damage

Hail can cause lots of damage to your home’s exterior. Windows, doors, siding, roofing, and eavestroughs are common aspects of your home that may need to be replaced after a hail storm. You’ll need an experienced general contractor that also offers exterior renovations. In some cases, portions of your exterior can be replaced. In others, you might have to redo the entire exterior. Davian Construction will do an assessment of the damage and make their best recommendations. 

Vehicle damage

Though uncommon, damage to homes and property can occur from vehicle collisions. Usually, it a moment of distraction or underestimating the distance in the side mirror. Whatever the case, Davian Construction’s team knows accidents happen. Once stabilizing the affected area, they can repair the area and replace the siding materials. They can also fix fences, decks, or other exterior structures if they’re damaged. 

General Contractors in Winnipeg

Davian Construction provides repair and renovation services to business, commercial, and residential properties. They have many years of experience and can help with a range of projects. Whether it’s a home remodel, minor renovation, or restoration after damage, their expertise and quality service will ensure a smooth project. 

Contact Davian Construction today!

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

If you’re in the middle of a home renovation and the drywalling portion is finished, the next step is to paint! Or, if you are just looking for a way to update or refresh your home, an easy step is also to paint. From getting a house ready to sell, or to show off personality, homeowners should think about painting their homes as a quick and relatively inexpensive option for an update to their home. From stylish designs to complex faux finishes, your options are many.

A.G Painting Renovation Specialist in Winnipeg has some things homeowners should think about when choosing to paint their home:

Choosing a colour

Picking a colour to paint a room can be a big deal. If you have plans to sell your home, it’s better to go with more neutral colours. If you aren’t planning on moving and want to go with something more colourful, you can! Colours are a great way to show off personality or make a room feel more vibrant. Depending on what colour you gravitate towards, you can even set a tone with warm or cool options. A.G Painting can help you come up with a colour scheme to meet your goals.

Picking a finish

There are several options available depending on how glossy you want your paint to look. High gloss paint is easier to clean, so it’s a great option in high traffic spots or places like a bathroom or playroom where the walls get wiped more often. Choosing matte paint with no gloss can help to hide any imperfections your wall may have. This is a great easy option for dining rooms or spare bedrooms.

Don’t be afraid to paint the ceiling

Painting a ceiling can really change the perception of the room. If you paint the ceiling a darker colour than the walls, it makes the ceiling appear lower and vice versa. Choosing a darker colour can help make a room feel cozier. If you are a fan of an airier look, a lighter colour can also help with that. For older ceilings, a fresh coat of white paint can really freshen up the room. It will hide blemishes, stains, and other imperfections, making it look new again.

Painters in Winnipeg

From a high level of service to top-quality products, you’ll know you made the right choice in hiring A.G Painting Renovation Specialist. Their expert residential painters are highly skilled in providing the best value for homeowners for the best possible price. If you have been looking to refresh your home, or even get ready to list it, you can’t go wrong with updating the interior paint. Don’t compromise on peace of mind and hire the right experts for the job.

Reach out to A.G Painting Renovation Specialist for your paint needs today.

Click To Find >>>> Painters in Winnipeg

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

When it comes to choosing protection for your home, good siding should be at the top of the list. The right siding will last for years, add value, thermal performance, and can be a low-maintenance choice. There are many options available, but fibre cement siding is a top contender for many reasons. 

Blind River Construction Inc. in Airdrie specializes in exterior renovations. They share more about what makes fibre cement siding such a great choice:

Pro: it’s incredibly durable

The very same benefits that concrete on its own offers also translate to fibre cement siding. It’s incredibly durable, which means it won’t rot, warp, crack, degrade, or break down easily. That same resistance then lends itself to a long lifespan, even up to 75 years. Once installed, it’s the type of siding that keeps adding value and looks good no matter what. 

Pro: eco-friendly benefits

Unlike other siding options, fibre cement siding is an eco-friendlier option. As a man-made material, it won’t break down or release harmful toxins into the air. It also uses less energy overall to craft the siding. Thanks to its long lifespan, it’s less likely to end up in any landfills. As a low-maintenance option, there won’t be costly paints or products needed to clean the siding. Some paints or products can be harmful to the environment, but no cleaning means low impact. 

Pro: no fire risk

Unsurprisingly, fibre cement is not at risk from fires or fire damage. Neither heat nor flame affects the siding, and it offers the highest available rating. Other materials like wood or vinyl either increase the risk of a fire or become severely damaged. Costly repairs and replacements can increase the cost over time, instead of saving more the way fibre cement siding does.

Consider: higher cost

One key thing to factor into your decision and budget is the higher costs of fibre cement siding. Compared to other materials, especially vinyl, fibre cement is on the higher end of pricing. That said, also factor in the long-term savings that the siding will offer. The initial costs will pay themselves back with lower maintenance, fewer repair costs, and added overall home value. It’s a long-term investment with even longer payback benefits. 

Consider: skilled labour

Some siding can be DIYed, but it’s best to leave it to a professional as a general rule. Fibre cement siding is the same, with the exception that it needs a skilled professional. The weight alone makes the installation more complicated, and improper work can lead to costly issues. Gaps in the siding risk water or pests getting in and costing repairs both inside and out. When looking for a professional, make sure they have the right experience, training, and warranties. That way, your investment will be sound, and you won’t have to worry about the unexpected happening. 

Siding Contractors in Airdrie

At Blind River Construction, they specialize in exterior renovations and have 14 years of experience. That means that they can help with any improvements, installations or upgrades and guarantee the quality and value of work. Whether you need new siding, a home facelift or a curb appeal improvement, they are the ones to call.

Contact Blind River Construction Inc. today.

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

When it comes to home renovations, it’s important to know which ones can help increase the resale value. If you aren’t planning on staying in your home long-term, consider undertaking improvements with the biggest return on investment. While there are several upgrade options available for homeowners, there are more cost-effective choices they can make.

Key Ready Construction in Abbotsford has three renovations that can increase your resale value.

Kitchen

It’s been said that the kitchen is the soul of a home. This is where many families spend the majority of their time, so it’s important to be functional. People might shy away from a kitchen renovation due to the thought of the cost, but they shouldn’t. Realtors estimate that a kitchen renovation cost can be almost half recovered when the home is sold. It’s important to keep a kitchen relevant and up to date with improved appliances. If a kitchen’s functionality doesn’t need improvement, then a simple refresh might be all that’s needed.

Bathroom

The bathroom is another area you can upgrade to improve a home sale. As a major selling feature, the bathroom needs to have features that appeal to potential home buyers. From double sinks to in-floor heating, there are several ways for a bathroom to stand out. Make sure you pick features that work for you as well, as you will be the one using them for as long as you continue to live in the home. Make sure to discuss the options that best work for you while also thinking about the future resale value.

Adding an addition

A great way to increase home value is by increasing the square footage. If you find that your home lacks space, either useable or storage, then think about increasing it. This can be done either by expanding a living room, putting a bathroom in the basement, or even by adding a garage. If you have ever thought that your space is too small, then consider adding on to get the space you need. Keep in mind that home additions will not recover all of their cost, but can make your home stand out on the market. It will also add value to your lifestyle in the meantime.

Major Home Renovations in Abbotsford

Thirty-five years of building knowledge and experience mean that homeowners can rest easy when hiring Key Ready Construction for their home renovation. Their efficient process and results-driven dedication give their clients a positive experience through the upgrade process. When it comes to increasing your home’s value, trust the company that treats your project like their own.

Reach out to Key Ready Construction today.

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

When doing a home renovation, a primary goal is typically to add more value. Whether that’s updating the look, expanding the space, or using a custom material, it’s all about long-term investments. Concrete, despite typically thought of as an outdoors material, is a value-boosting material to consider.

D. Wiens Contracting in Mission is a professional general contractor and concrete contractor. They share more about the benefits of adding concrete into your home renovation: 

It’s a smart investment

Any well-planned home improvement is a great investment, but using concrete is also a smart investment. Depending on where you use concrete, it can help lower utility bills, boost savings, and add general appeal to the home. Concrete is also more diverse in its use, whether it’s flooring, countertops, walls, framing, or more. 

Lifelong countertops

Kitchen countertops tend to be at the top of the list when thinking about home renovations. A good countertop is essential as a central visual piece in the room and a daily used space. Concrete countertops are cost-effective and have a flawless seam-free finish. A concrete contractor can design and style a countertop in many ways. It’s also incredibly durable, which means it will last for years and not be damaged easily. Even if it does get damaged, repairs are just as quick and easy to do. Once your kitchen renovations are finished, that stylish concrete countertop will be a stunning focal point. 

Stylish flooring

There are many options for flooring, from hardwood to carpets and tiles, but there’s also concrete. As a flooring, concrete has many appeals that can’t be beaten. It’s very low maintenance, especially once properly sealed, so sweeping is all it needs. It can be designed in many ways, whether with dyes to add colours or treatments like acid stains or stencils to mimic other materials. You can get the same feeling as hardwood or tile but at much less cost and less work.

It’s green

Adding eco-friendly options throughout your home is a win-win all around. Finding greener materials and styles is also becoming easier, and concrete is one such option. Most concrete is made locally, so there’s less energy used to deliver it to your home. The materials used in concrete are also completely renewable, and old concrete can easily be recycled or repurposed. Plus, depending on the project, some concrete jobs can easily be DIYed for an even smaller impact. 

General Contractors in Mission and Concrete Contractors in Mission

At D. Wiens Contracting, they pay attention to details, whether those are big or small. As specialists in home renovations and concrete work, it also means they can turn your dreams into realities. Their results are always guaranteed, and customer satisfaction is a top priority. Whether you need help with a big or small project, their professionals are the ones to call. 

Contact D. Wiens Contracting today! 

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

Keeping your home up to date is not only about maintaining its value but also ensuring overall safety. With older homes, in particular, historical charm only goes so far. When that same historical element includes the electrical wiring, a modern update is definitely in order.

Connco Electric in Winnipeg is a professional electrical company for commercial and residential needs. They share more about knob and tube wiring and why a replacement is so important:

What is knob and tube wiring?

Knob and tube wiring was once a common type of electrical wiring used in homes built before the 1950s. The wiring itself was made from copper and installed throughout the walls and ceilings. An easy way to check if your home still has this system is to check the basement for porcelain cylinders installed in holes in the wooden floor joints. While once common and perfectly suited to 90’s electrical demands, that same wiring is not safe or suitable for modern-day needs.

There’s a higher risk of fires

Two main risks and differences with knob and tube wiring are that there is no ground wiring, and the insulation uses rubber. Without ground wiring, a short circuit or faulty wire can quickly spark and cause a fire. That same spark can also spread and catch fire in more than one area, resulting in severe damage and costs. Today’s electrical wiring always includes ground wiring and possibly short circuit protection or extra measures.

Rubber insulation is another problem area and potential fire risk. Electrical currents need space to dissipate the heat that builds up during use. With rubber, that heat eventually will wear the insulation down and leave the wires exposed. Once that happens, sparks and fires can occur with little or no notice and more frequently.

Not enough electrical support

As mentioned, knob and tube wiring was outfitted to serve 90’s era electrical needs. The electrical demands in a modern home between appliances, home security, lighting, entertainment, and more are just too great. The system could overheat, damage appliances, and very likely end up costing more in monthly electrical bills. Even if a replacement seems costly, the long-term savings and benefits are well worthwhile.

Issues with insurance

As a result of knob and tube wiring safety hazards, insurance companies are less willing to take the risk of insuring your home. If something does happen, any damages and repairs could come straight out of your pocket. Likewise, if you are planning to sell, you may find that buyers are less eager to choose your home. That’s why hiring a professional electrician is so essential. They can inspect your home to determine the best replacement and then handle the work. That means your home is safer, the work is insured, and insurance companies will be more open to protecting your home.

Electricians in Winnipeg

At Connco Electric, their top priority is to provide safe and affordable electrical services for your home or business. Whether you need a knob and tube replacement, an electrical upgrade, or just maintenance, their professionals can help.

Contact Connco Electric today for quality electrical services! 

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

Updating the windows in your home could be an easy decision, but there are important details to consider. It’s not uncommon for older homes to have single-paned windows. Choosing between double and triple pane replacement windows is something a homeowner should think about. Deciding between the two can come down to a decision to see your home’s energy efficiency increase. Increased energy efficiency can help lower your energy bills and help keep your home at a comfortable level during extreme temperatures.

GreenFox Windows and Doors in Calgary share more information about double and triple-paned windows.

Double Paned Windows

Energy efficiency increased with double-paned windows and is now the standard for new homes and replacements. The gap between the panes of glass is typically either filled with air or gas. The gas used is most likely argon, krypton, or xenon, known for their ability to resist energy transfer. This helps to reduce the amount of heat lost from home and the amount of heat absorbed from the outside on hot days. These are great things to help your home with its energy efficiency in both winter and summer. You’ll see savings on your heating and cooling bills over time.

Triple Paned Windows

Obviously, with triple-paned windows, there is even less heat transfer and absorption thanks to the extra layer of glass and insulating gas. While there’s still gas used between the panes, it’s more than likely to be argon. While triple-paned windows can be a larger investment, over 25% of energy loss in a home comes from a loss in heat retention. It’s a worthwhile investment, especially when living in a climate with extreme weather like Calgary has. The frigid temperatures experienced during winters and the extreme heat recently seen won’t have as large an effect on your home. Triple pane windows help keep extreme weather outside where it belongs and your home at a comfortable temperature without straining your HVAC system.

Choosing windows for your home

Both double and triple-paned windows can help your home stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you’re upgrading from a single-pane, the energy efficiency will help your wallet and help cut down on stress placed on your furnace and air conditioner. For a little extra cost, go for the triple pane and maximize your window’s efficiency. Whatever you decide, Greenfox Windows and Doors can help you find a window replacement that will improve efficiency, curb appeal, and value for your home.

Windows in Calgary

GreenFox Windows and Doors bring their customers world-class products to help increase energy and thermal efficiency. With a lifetime warranty on products and a 25-year workmanship warranty, customers will have peace of mind with their new window investment. Let GreenFox help improve your home, your energy costs, and your comfort level.

For more information, reach out GreenFox Windows and Doors today.

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