Everything you need to know about wind damage and awnings

Retractable awnings provide shade on hot days and protection during rainy ones. They also cool your home and can be a stylish addition to any yard, and they’re low maintenance. However, they are susceptible to wind damage. If you consider purchasing a motorized retractable awning for your home, there is an easy way to avoid wind damage.

Solaris Canada in Edmonton carries retractable Sunesta awnings and accessories to protect it from high winds. Read these tips to prevent damage if you’re investing in an awning.

What are the effects of high winds?

Strong wind is the enemy of awnings. These forces of nature can knock your awning’s retractable arms out of alignment. Moreover, high winds can even damage the motor on mortised retractable awnings. In extreme cases, wind can rip the awning’s fabric or cause damage to the wall or roof where the awning is installed.

Can you fix wind-damaged awnings?

Usually, yes! Contact Solaris Canada to schedule a maintenance call if you suspect wind damage following an intense storm. Their experienced installers assess the damage and fix the issue. The awning often just needs an arm adjustment or part replacement.

How can I avoid wind damage?

Fortunately, there is an easy solution. Solaris Canada carries Somfy Wind Sensors. These wind sensors are discrete additions to any Sunesta retractable awnings. They sense wind speed and automatically retract your awning when it starts blowing a little too hard. To that point, you can customize your Somfy Wind Sensor to withdraw at a predefined wind level. For example, you may want your awning to retract for all moderate breezes (20 km/hour). Or, perhaps you only worry during a gale of 50 km/hour.

How does the Somfy Wind Sensor work?

Every 12 minutes, your Somfy Wind Sensor senses the wind-generated movement on the awning arms. Additionally, it has an auto-retract feature. If there is an abrupt wind movement, it immediately retracts the awning.

Can you install the Somfy Wind Sensor on my existing awning?

Yes! Somfy Wind Sensors can be installed at any time. This easy upgrade is a fantastic investment that can prolong the life of your awning. However, there may be an installation fee if you add a Somfy Wind Sensor after your initial awning installation.

Do Somfy Wind Sensors work on fixed awnings?

No. Somfy Wind Sensors only work on motorized awnings.

Motorized and Retractable Awnings in Edmonton

Solaris Canada carries a range of products to enhance your home or business. For example, they offer screen, shade, and security solutions. These come in the form screens, panels, umbrellas, and shutters. Additionally, they stock awnings (both retractable and fixed) and accessories such as wind sensors. They are specialists in innovative and functional designs.

Contact Solaris Canada today!

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

If you want the house of your dreams, you should consider building it. Shopping for the perfect house can be a long process- and there’s no guarantee that you’ll ever find it. Custom home construction is the solution. But what can you expect once you decide to have a custom home built? What is the process?

Rechsteiner Construction Ltd. in Burnaby specializes in custom home construction. They explain their unique and client-focused process.

1. Consultation

This is when you share your vision and goals for your new home! Additionally, you can gauge if your contractor is a good fit. You two will be in close contact throughout the construction process, so a good relationship is vital. Your contractor should understand your wants, appreciate your opinions, and listen to your feedback.

Rechsteiner Construction provides a feasibility analysis and complete project overview during the consultation. Also, they can refer designers and consultants if needed.

2. Design

If you don’t yet have a design for your home, this is when it happens. A complete set of drawings are developed, and all specifications are finalized. Rechsteiner Construction ensures that the design follows all local building codes and bylaws. Learn more about design!

3. Estimates

Before construction begins, you need to see a clear and detailed estimate. You should leave feeling like you fully understand the projected expenses- not lost in the dark. Then, the estimate can be refined and adjusted, so the project falls within your budget.

4. Pre-construction

At Rechsteiner Construction, they do everything by the book. That means submitting permit applications and drawing up contracts. Furthermore, their industry connections and management experience mean they only work with sub-contractors that they know and trust.

5. Construction

At last, it’s time to build! Rechsteiner Construction develops a communication plan, so you stay abreast of all developments. In addition, there are regular meetings where you can review the progress, schedule, and budget. Your feedback should always be welcome!

6. Post-construction

The project isn’t finished until the final walk-through. At this stage, you receive all project documentation and information on warranties and manuals. You will be shown how to operate any new systems. Finally, Rechsteiner Construction offers maintenance services to completed homes!

Custom Home Builders in Burnaby

Rechsteiner Construction Ltd. provides excellence in residential construction. Their experienced and knowledgeable team takes you through all renovation or construction stages, from initial consultation until completion. They take on a limited number of projects at any given time to ensure high-quality results and superb customer service. They always build with trust, integrity, and respect no matter the project.

Contact Rechsteiner Construction Ltd. today!

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

Part of being a homeowner means that you have to be aware of the state of your roof. Your roof is responsible for protecting your home from the elements, so knowing when to call a roofer is vital. While these issues can be common on residential roofs, don’t wait for repairs as it can lead to further damage. 

Top Roof & Exteriors in Calgary is a professional roofing and exterior renovation company. They share some common roofing repairs that their team can handle with quality and care:

Trouble with flashing 

Roof flashing is installed around your roofline to help keep any water from sneaking underneath your shingles. There may also be metal flashing installed around the chimneys and vents likewise to keep water out. Unfortunately, when those flashing are installed incorrectly or are old and damaged, water can flow underneath. That invites rot, water damage, and other costly roof repairs. To avoid this, have a roofing contractor conduct a roof inspection. You should also have any flashing replaced at the same time as a roof replacement.

Shingle replacement 

Replacing your shingles isn’t only done during a complete roof replacement, as sometimes individual shingles need replacing. That can happen for several reasons, like suffering over time from the elements, fallen tree branches, or lifting from the heat. Like failing flashing, even a single damaged shingle invites the risk of water getting in. The shingle could also come loose and fall off, leaving a part of your roof exposed to the elements. If there are enough damaged shingles, it may be more cost-effective to schedule a total replacement. Otherwise, call a professional to handle the shingle replacement and keep your whole roof safe.

Leaks 

Water leaks cause damage to both your roof and your home if left unrepaired. Since roofing leaks are sometimes hard to find, it’s best to leave them to a professional. They’ll be able to find the source and handle the necessary repairs safely and quickly. Typically, leaks develop from roof neglect or poor installation. That’s why finding a trusted company like Top Roof & Exteriors from the start is so important to ensure you don’t run into early roof troubles. 

Finding a trusted company 

When looking for the right company, don’t rush the process. Instead, check things like years of experience, fees and warranties, insurance and training. Browse their past jobs to get an idea of their skill. Then, check out reviews to see how they handle jobs and customers. Getting multiple estimates will also help ensure you get the right match at competitive pricing. And, if in doubt, ask questions until you feel confident in your decision. 

Roofing in Calgary 

Top Roof & Exteriors has served Calgary and the surrounding areas since 2012. Roofing is their business, and satisfying customers is their motto. Integrity, professionalism, and reliability have always been their top priority. In addition, their team has years of skill, quality workmanship, and full insurance, so you can trust your roof and home are in capable hands.

Contact Top Roof & Exteriors today!

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

Property maintenance companies offer a wide range of services, including lawn care and snow removal. Their experience, equipment, and expertise allow them to complete yard maintenance faster and more effectively. Moreover, the end result is high-quality and aligned with your vision for your outdoor space.

Wild Bear Snow and Lawn in St. Albert provide reliable snow removal and lawn care services to businesses and homeowners.

1. They do the job right.

Property maintenance companies like Wild Bear Snow and Lawn are experts at what they do. They have years of experience caring for lawns, trimming trees, and maintaining landscapes. As a result, they’re really good at it. Even the most avid DIYer likely only has a fraction of the experience of a professional property maintenance contractor.

Plus, maintenance companies already own all the necessary tools to do the job right. Their shears are sharp, and their lawnmowers well-maintained! This combination of expertise, training, and equipment means that they deliver quality results every time.

2. They save you time.

Each season brings its own unique to-do list. Lawn care, fall clean-up, snow removal, and spring clean-up… they all take time! Wild Bear Snow and Lawn are there to help. They get the job done quickly and efficiently. These tasks waste valuable hours that you could use to do something else. Even if you enjoy puttering around in your garden, there are likely parts of yard maintenance that you find tiresome and boring. Consequently, professional companies like Wild Bear Snow and Lawn customize their maintenance services to suit your preferences.

3. They take care of your lawn.

Every homeowner knows that lawn care isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. After all, lawns need more than just regular mowing to thrive. Fertilizing, dethatching, and even trimming all need to be done correctly at the right time of year. Fortunately, professional maintenance companies are lawn care experts. They can identify what your lawn needs- and when. So, unless you can commit to a lawn care regime, it’s best to hire the pros!

4. They keep you safe in winter.

Fast and effective snow removal and ice management are essential for winter safety. That’s why maintenance companies are available seven days a week! They keep your residential or commercial property free of snow and ice, so you never have to worry. Wild Bear Snow and Lawn provide shovelling, blowing, scraping, sanding, snow hauling, and ice-melting services.

Lawn Care and Maintenance in St. Albert

Wild Bear Snow and Lawn are a locally family-owned and operated company in the Edmonton area. They provide property maintenance and lawn care services for residential and commercial clients. Additionally, they offer landscaping and water feature installation. At Wild Bear, they work hard to understand your needs and vision. Then, they make it a reality.

Contact Wild Bear Snow and Lawn for your free quote!

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

Do you have an outdoor space where you can relax after a long day at work with your patio furniture? Here are some ideas for creating the ideal outdoor lounge and patio in your own backyard. 

Patios

An outdoor patio is a convenient way to create an outdoor lounge. Patios can only be built on flat terrain and provide a space where you can enjoy the comforts of inside while being outside. Decks and porches can also be used as outdoor lounge areas. Patios can be built with cement, stone, tiles, or pavers. Arrange furniture, décor, lighting, and other elements to create the ideal setting for a view, cookout, and other activities.

Patio Location

Where you will install your outdoor patio is an important consideration. If you intend to cook on the grill or use the space for dinner, keep it close to home in case you forget the plates or any utensils while cooking and eating. Sliding doors can be installed as the entrance to your home for a smooth transition from inside to outside. Build your patio away from the house to create the ideal get-away spot.

Furniture and Structures

When decorating your patio, make sure to use weather-resistant materials such as plastic, stainless steel, or treated wood. Keep storage for pillows, lounge items, and other items nearby, such as benches with storage or small plastic sheds, to keep them in when the weather turns bad.

Make an outdoor lounge for you and your family to enjoy in your backyard. An outdoor patio can be built almost anywhere and decorated with pergola structures, drapes, lights, furniture, plants, and other accessories. Make it your own and see what you can come up with.

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 home maintenance services.

The post How to Setup the Perfect Outdoor Patio appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

New kitchen cabinets are a great way to add a fresh look and value to your home, and stock cabinets are a budget-friendly choice. To add further value and appeal to your new cabinets, consider adding MDF panels for a unique look.

Quix Group in Winnipeg provides superior European decorative MDF-based panels. They share some ways to use their decorative panels to dress up your kitchen stock cabinets:

What are stock cabinets and MDF panels? 

Unlike custom cabinets that choose the design and finish options, stock cabinets are pre-built cabinets. These cabinets come in set sizes and measurements and are ready to be installed in a few days. High-quality stock cabinets are built to be robust and durable, so while budget-friendly, you aren’t losing longevity. They can also conveniently be upgraded and updated with new hardware and accessories or looks like refacing with MDF panelling.

MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is a type of engineered wood product. It is made by gluing hardwood and softwood fibres under high pressure and then compressing them into panels. Unlike real wood panels, MDF is much less expensive and can easily be customized with different designs and styles. It’s also a better base if you want to paint your cabinets, or in the case of new panelling, it’s an easy replacement.

Acrylic panels 

Another type of stock cabinet panelling option is to choose acrylic, which is a great option for the kitchen. The acrylic finish is non-toxic and gives the panel a smooth, high-gloss appearance. It’s also scratch-resistant and doesn’t easily chip or crack. Add in that it’s available in a wide range of colours, and this panel adds a sleek, modern, and eye-catching new look. The mirror-like sheen creates the illusion of more space in your kitchen which is great in smaller spaces. Using acrylic panels on your top cabinets in a large kitchen will add a sense of height.

Lacquered UV panels 

If you don’t want the glossy look of acrylic, then the lacquered UV panels are a great alternative. These panels are waterproof, scratchproof, and steam resistant, making them great for a kitchen. The surface is hard and durable, and the UV protection ensures the look won’t fade over time. Like acrylic, lacquered comes in a nearly endless array of colours, so you can easily pair the right look to your kitchen. If you’re looking to add value or make a stylish long-term investment, lacquer is a great option. 

J-door appeal 

To pair style with convenience, look no further than the J-door. This option can be applied to all kinds of materials and looks great without a high cost. The handle design is integrated into a kitchen cabinet or drawer. The “J” shape in the cabinet creates the trademark hook-like feature, which is easy to pull open with ease. Even pairing a few doors in your kitchen with the J-door is a great way to play around with style and appeal and break up the look of the space. 

Stock Cabinets in Winnipeg 

Quix Group has been producing MDF products for years and has the experience, trusted reliance and quality to back them. They proudly supply superior quality European decorative MDF-based panels to add new value and appeal to your home. In addition, their team specializes in high gloss and super matte surfaces and can guide you to the perfect new look.

Contact Quix Group today!

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

If you feel overwhelmed by the to-do list around your home or out of your depth with keeping the exterior clean, an exterior cleaning service can help. They can tackle your home’s exterior cleaning, perform maintenance, and correct issues before they become big problems.

ClearWest Services in Vancouver provide exceptional exterior cleaning services. Their staff are professionally trained and licensed to ensure high-quality results. Here is how they can help improve your home and curb appeal:

Window washing

Washing windows is one of those chores that most homeowners don’t get to as often as they should. Not only is it a tedious task, but upper windows can be difficult and unsafe to reach without the proper equipment. ClearWest Services offers exterior window washing, including skylight washing. They will scrape, wash, and squeegee your windows for a spotless and streak-free clean. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the crystal clear view!

Gutter cleaning

Gutter, window, and siding maintenance are essential. If improperly maintained, your house runs a serious risk of water damage. For example, cracked, clogged, or leaky gutters have a shorter lifespan and fail to divert water away from your home. Meanwhile, water can enter your home through the cracks in deteriorating siding, and worn-down windows can let water in and let heat out. This can cause damage and result in higher heating bills.

When ClearWest Services cleans your gutters, they’ll make sure they’re completely free of debris. In addition, they’ll check and clean your downspouts. All material removed will go into your green bin for disposal. Then, you can rest easy knowing your eavestroughs are cleaned and able to provide ample drainage for the upcoming season.

Moss removal

A mossy roof doesn’t last as long. Moss damages your roof, meaning you’ll have to replace it sooner than predicted. This is because moss is essentially a sponge. It holds onto water, and eventually, this moisture can leach through your roof. This results in water damage to the actual structure of your home. Fixing this comes with a big price tag. So, it’s better to remove the moss quickly before it causes a much larger issue. Learn more about moss removal.

Handyman Services in Vancouver

ClearWest Services provide expert handyman services to homeowners in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. They offer interior and exterior maintenance, house washing, roof repair, and gutter cleaning. Their professionally trained staff deliver superb craftsmanship alongside fantastic customer service.

Contact ClearWest Services today!

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

Regular maintenance and repair from a professional HVAC company are essential for the lifespan of your air conditioning unit. However, every AC needs to be replaced eventually. Opting to upgrade instead of endlessly repairing has several advantages. This includes better energy efficiency and better performance.

Spark Heating & Air Conditioning in Edmonton provides heating, ventilation, and cooling services. Here they offer their top reasons for replacing your AC unit.

Better energy efficiency

Modern air conditioning units are significantly more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. They use the latest technology to do the same job with less power! As a result, you spend less money on your monthly utility bills. This is one of the most substantial advantages of upgrading your AC-  enjoying better results for a lower cost. Additionally, your home is greener and better for the environment. Although there is the upfront cost of installing a new AC, the potential energy savings are enormous.

Quieter

Your home should be a peaceful retreat from the chaos of the outside world. However, your zen may be disrupted by your old AC. Older AC units are often loud and disruptive. On the other hand, new air conditioners run on lower decibel levels, which are much quieter. 

Reliability

Consistent maintenance and professional repairs extend the lifespan of older AC units. However, eventually, it will need to be replaced. If your AC has been repaired multiple times and breaks down regularly, it’s probably time for a new one. Conversely, if your newly repaired AC still cannot cool your home, consider an upgrade. A new AC is more effective, efficient, and reliable.

Cooler home

Is your old AC failing to cool your home? Are rooms never the right temperature? Your old AC may simply be too old for the task. Furthermore, poorly maintained air conditioners have shorter lifespans and encounter cooling problems faster. Therefore, age and disrepair can both result in ineffective cooling. Upgrading is your best bet for a comfortable home.

New warranty

A new AC unit comes with a new warranty. This guarantee can mean significant savings if something goes wrong. However, AC repairs can be costly, so coverage is always a plus. All new cooling and heating systems from Spark Heating & Air Conditioning come with a five-year guarantee.

Air Conditioning in Edmonton

Spark Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in heating, cooling, and ventilation. They install various products, including air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and humidifiers. Additionally, they do repairs and general maintenance. Their highly trained and knowledgeable technicians exceed your expectations, no matter the project. They also offer emergency repair services if you find yourself in immediate need of HVAC repairs or a replacement. 

Contact Spark Heating & Air Conditioning today! 

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

An outdoor kitchen will not only add extra functionality to your outdoor space but will also increase the value of your home. Plus, it will give the foodies in the house (and guests!) the perfect place to enjoy al fresco cooking and eating. Modern outdoor kitchens go beyond a dining area and a charcoal grill. Instead, modern kitchens have adapted to the needs of today’s homeowners who want to maximise their space and fully enjoy their home inside and out, no matter the season.

Set a budget.

Of course, modern kitchen projects will depend on individual budgets. Some modern outdoor kitchens might feature high-tech appliances whilst others might be more focused on the do-it-yourself route to cut costs. We recommend making a base budget with some wiggle room as project costs might end up being more than anticipated.

Assess the space.

It is essential to assess the available space to know the type of outdoor kitchen you can install, including the types of appliances and how much seating space you will have. On smaller properties, the choices for the location of an outdoor kitchen are limited. However, there are countless small outdoor kitchen ideas that can inspire you and offer various options for modest outdoor spaces.

Our London carpenters can assemble kitchen units, indoors and outdoors. So, if you have made up your mind on a specific kitchen unit but need a second pair of hands assembling and aligning it, get in touch with our team. Plus, our painters and decorators can paint exterior surfaces, such as paint house exteriors, to ensure the space you have for your outdoor kitchen looks its best.

Consider the material.

If you want to design an outdoor kitchen for your British home, the outdoor kitchen needs to be weatherproof. Make sure you choose materials that can withstand the constant weather changes. Plus, we recommend picking materials that are easy to clean and low-maintenance, so you can enjoy this area of your home as much as possible with as little hassle as possible.

Don’t forget the plumbing.

Without running water outside, you will have to keep going back and forth in and out of the house which might be a frustrating experience when you are trying to have conversations with your guests. At the Handy Squad, we have a team of plumbers in London, who can install garden taps, install sinks and complete a variety of other plumbing tasks you might require for your outdoor kitchen.

Light the space.

Let’s face it – you will not have excellent lighting conditions every day. You might be planning on having a daytime barbecue get-together with friends but it has extended into an evening of good food and cocktails. However, with no proper lighting, you will not be able to enjoy the rare warm summer evenings.

Your outdoor kitchen should be properly lit to ensure you can enjoy alfresco eating no matter the time of the day. Plus, remember to add some ambient lighting around your outdoor kitchen to create the right mood as well as lighting around the garden, so you and your guests can clearly see where you are stepping. Our electricians can install outdoor lighting, change light transformers on your current outdoor lights and more.

Shelter is essential.

Shelter is one of the main features any outdoor kitchen should have. Not only will shelter allow you to enjoy your outdoor kitchen outside the summer months but it will also cover your outdoor kitchen appliances from the elements and, in turn, ensure these last longer.

The post How to create an outdoor kitchen appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Blog submitted by Shield Foundation Repair in Edmonton

Early snowfalls can lead to slow melting water accumulations in low-lying areas of your home. 10 cm of snow in your window wells might not seem important, but that might not be a safe assumption. The melting snow could cause leaks, and you might need basement waterproofing in Edmonton.

Do you see horizontal waterlines on the window?

We marked the following photo with arrows to bring your attention to high watermark lines on the window. Those lines tell us that the window well filled with water during heavy storms.

The third photo below shows how water found its way around the window and over the foundation wall. Again, this is due to either no vertical drains or plugged vertical drains in the window well.

Does that look like your window? Call Shield Foundation Repair!

If you see lines like this, call Shield Foundation Repair for repairs and Edmonton basement waterproofing. The amount of water that can enter your basement in minutes is remarkable. Melting snow is even more sneaky because water might seep in slowly, but it’s as worrisome. A leakage problem can be invisible because water can run down your foundation and inside your walls. This is probably the culprit if you see mysterious puddles on your basement floors around windows or if it smells damp after every rain or snow event.

Window well maintenance tips

Keep your window wells free and clear of debris.

– Always maintain 100% rock topping in window wells for drainage.
– Regularly inspect window wells for signs that point to standing water.
– Look for signs of mould or mildew around window well areas.
– Be suspicious of musky odours in your basement.
– Inspect basement walls and floors around window wells for staining or dampness.

Bonus Pro-tip: When looking at buying a house, this is a dead way giveaway that there might be window well issues and water ingress.

Call us today to talk to one of our friendly staff about new or old leakage, moisture, or mould issues.

Contact Shield Foundation Repair!

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