Improving Your Residential Concrete

Does your home’s concrete need an upgrade? The concrete contractors at Edmonton Concrete and Asphalt are here to help! They offer concrete installation, restoration, repair, sealing, and many other concrete services. Here are some ideas for how you can improve your home’s concrete. 

A fresh pour

New concrete is a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal while adding functionality. If your current driveway, sidewalk, pathway, or patio is damaged, new concrete can make all the difference. New concrete, especially at the front of the house, can drastically improve curb appeal. Plus, concrete has come a long way and is more versatile than it once was. There are many finishes and even colours to choose from. For example, stamped concrete can mimic the look of natural stone, tile, and even wood grains. 

A fresh pour also gives you the opportunity to add any new features you don’t already have. A pathway connecting the front and back of your home adds to your landscaping and makes the front and back of your home feel more connected. A patio is a great additional space to entertain guests, or just spend time with family. Concrete can also be incorporated into garden pathways, retaining walls, steps, or bordered to improve the function and aesthetics of the space. There are many ways to incorporate concrete into your outdoor spaces, and the possibilities are endless. 

Resurfacing and repair

If your concrete repairs are minor, or you’re looking for a simple resurfacing over your existing concrete, Edmonton Concrete and Asphalt can help you out! They specialize in resurfacing and repair, giving your home’s concrete the boost it needs. While repairs can be an easy fix, concrete resurfacing can make a big difference. With the new layer of concrete, you could stamp a new design, add a new finish, or simply cover any old cracks with a smooth surface. Both concrete resurfacing and repair can transform your home’s visual appeal. 

Demolition and removal

Sometimes, your home has a concrete feature that has run its course. There might be damage to the concrete that is beyond repair, or you’re ready for a design change. Removing extra concrete can give you the clean slate you’re looking for, and allow you the opportunity to make a new plan for your landscaping. Edmonton Concrete and Asphalt offers this service.

Concrete Contractors in Edmonton

Edmonton Concrete and Asphalt is a licensed, multi-faceted contractor that provides a comprehensive scope of services throughout Alberta. They have experience and service in the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. They specialize in concrete, asphalt and paving, parking lot maintenance, excavation, demolition, and epoxy surfaces service. 

For more information, check out Edmonton Concrete and Asphalt today!

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

While it used to be a popular option for several different home fixtures, asbestos is no longer used in construction. It’s common knowledge now that asbestos fibres can cause several different health hazards. Don’t disturb asbestos if you suspect that it might be present. Once disturbed, the fibres will be released into the air and present a serious hazard if you breathe in them.

If you are about to start a renovation, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional first. If found, you’ll have to invest in professional asbestos removal to ensure your home and renovation site are safe. Eco Abate in Calgary shares a few common areas asbestos can be found in your older home:

Insulation

There are a few different types of insulation that could contain asbestos. A type of insulation called vermiculite is the most common to contain asbestos. You can also find asbestos in older cellulose insulation, loose-fill fibreglass, and rock wool insulation. If you aren’t sure what type of insulation your attic has, the best thing to do is to assume it contains asbestos. Don’t disturb it and call to have testing done. It’s better to be safe until you can be sure that there isn’t.

Exterior Stucco

Modern stucco doesn’t contain asbestos, but if your home was built between 1940 and 1990 you should have your exterior stucco checked. The plaster layer in older stucco, as shown in the photo above, can contain asbestos. Using asbestos was a cost-effective way to improve durability and fire resistance in exterior stucco, and they weren’t aware of the health implications at the time. Even if your home’s stucco contains a small amount of asbestos, it is still hazardous and will need to be removed professionally.

Drywall

Older drywall is also a culprit for asbestos. It can be in drywall sheets, tapes, and compounds. To the naked eye, it’s nearly impossible to detect. When it is sealed and painted, it’s not harmful because the fibers are not disturbed. If your home was built in the 1980s or earlier, it’s best to have your drywall tested for asbestos. Even drilling into the drywall to hang shelving or pictures can cause asbestos exposure.

Flooring

It’s not uncommon for older homes to have linoleum sheet flooring that contains asbestos, or tile flooring that contains asbestos. If your home is a mid-century build, and you don’t have hardwood or stone tile floors, the likelihood is that the original flooring contains asbestos. Sheet flooring that contains asbestos is very dangerous and should only be removed by a professional.

A popular way to deal with asbestos flooring is to contain the asbestos by laying another type of flooring over top of it. If your home is older and has updated flooring, make sure there isn’t an older unknown flooring beneath it before ripping it out. If it is, and you start the demolition, you could be risking your health.

Asbestos Testing in Calgary

Eco Abate is a trusted professional when it comes to mould and asbestos testing. From sampling a small piece of material to monitoring air quality, you can be sure that their technicians have experience and knowledge of their work. They recognize that asbestos and mould testing can be a stressful thing for homeowners, and so communication is extremely important. They’ll test for hazardous material so you can get it removed from your home and safely carry on with your renovation.

If you think you have asbestos, contact Eco Abate Inc today.

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

When choosing a countertop company, you want the best. Allstone Inc. in Edmonton provides customers with top-quality products, services, and the necessary experience for flawless fabrication and installation. They offer some reasons as to why you should choose them for your next stone countertop project. 

Quality products

Allstone uses stones from all over the world to manufacture its countertops. Because of this, their pieces are very unique. They have a wide selection of stones, ensuring that you can find a piece that matches your kitchen design and colour scheme. Their granite and quartz options in particular come in high demand, because of their high-end aesthetics, durability, and value. The two stone products combine elegance with function, making your kitchen or bathroom spaces modern, clean, and long-lasting. When working with Allstone, you know you’re getting top-quality products that will match perfectly into your kitchen design. 

The best service

A countertop project comes with lots of decision-making. You can choose from a wide range of natural and engineered stone products, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming. Stone selection, measuring, and other factors can make it feel like a complicated process. Luckily, Allstone works alongside you every step of the way. From helping you choose a countertop, delivery, and professional installation, Allstone keeps you informed throughout the entire process. They pride themselves on their customer service, making sure every customer feels comfortable during every stage of the project. Got a question? Don’t hesitate to ask! 

Quality craftsmanship

Being in business since 1998, Allstone has learned and mastered the quality craftsmanship of its countertop products. They pay attention to every detail and cut when fabricating your countertop. They’re passionate about making each countertop the best it can be, using the best finishes, and the proper precision to get the job done right. No matter what stone material is used, you can count on their team to deliver quality craftsmanship from fabrication through installation. 

Countertops in Edmonton

Allstone is a family-owned business, specializing in natural stone including granite, marble, quartzite, slate, limestone, and travertine. Their experience, coupled with their high standards and dedication to customer service, means that every one of their customers receives a finished product that surpasses their expectations. No matter the size of your project, they’ll make sure your countertops fit the space, your style, and your needs. 

For more countertop information, contact Allstone today!

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

Embarking on a kitchen renovation is a big project. There are many factors to consider, from colour schemes to countertops and appliances. Aero Kitchen and Bath in Vancouver shares information on some different features to consider when going ahead with that kitchen renovation. 

Custom cabinetry

Custom cabinets come with many benefits that you don’t receive with stock cabinetry. They are tailor-made to fit your space, whether your kitchen is big or small. You can completely customize the inside of your cabinets to meet your needs for storage. For example, your cabinets can feature glide-out shelving for accessible storage. You can incorporate custom features like wine racks, spice racks, and pull-out garbage receptacles.

You can install upper cabinets for storage, or display different kitchen components, like dishware or decor. In addition, custom cabinets not only add to the overall look and function of your kitchen but can add to the overall value of your home. They are built to last, using high-quality materials, and crafted by expert carpenters. Custom cabinets are well worth the investment. 

Countertops

Aero Kitchen and Bath offers a wide variety of countertops, including granite, quartz, and laminate. When sealed properly, granite countertops are scratch, stain, and heat-resistant, making them a great choice. Another benefit to granite is the character of each stone. Every granite countertop will look a little different because each slab of granite is unique.

Quartz, on the other hand, is one of the hardest stones used for countertops. It doesn’t require sealing and is incredibly strong and low maintenance. Quartz is man-made using natural materials mixed with resins and colouring. As a result, you have a wide range of colours, designs, and styles to choose from. 

For a cost-effective alternative, consider laminate. They’re versatile in colour and design, durable, and budget-friendly. No matter which countertop options you choose, Aero Kitchen and Bath can cut and install the perfect countertop for you. 

Other kitchen features

In addition to the countertops and cabinets, there are other custom kitchen features you can add to make your kitchen unique. Aero Kitchen and Bath can help you design your lighting plan and give you ideas for storage solutions. Built-in pantries, corner cabinets, and drawer organizers are popular features. Aero Kitchen and Bath also specializes in Aventos lift system cabinets. These cabinet doors lift upwards, making everything inside quickly accessible without an open door getting in the way. Learn more about Aventos lift systems. 

Kitchen Renovations in Vancouver

Aero Kitchen and Bath is a family-owned business based in Vancouver, British Columbia. They are proud to be a Canadian company that services the Lower Mainland with high-quality custom cabinetry and millwork for single-family homes, multi-unit homes, and commercial units. They are a complete service design and build renovation team of interior designers, carpenters, project managers, and office staff who strive for exceptional quality in every renovation that we do.

To start planning your renovation, contact Aero Kitchen and Bath today!

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

Professional landscaping will improve curb appeal and boost resale value. It shows pride in ownership and can enhance your enjoyment and satisfaction with your home. If you’re investing in new landscaping, or have recently done so, consider the importance of landscape maintenance.

MSS MAAC Services & Integral Solutions Ltd. in Richmond offer landscape installation and maintenance services. They share more:

It helps maintain aesthetics and value

If you’ve invested in new landscaping, it’s essential to maintain that investment so it holds its value. If you let it go, it will be more challenging to bring back. This can cost more in the long run. A well-maintained landscape creates a visually appealing curb appeal in the front. In the back, it enhances outdoor living spaces and can be a wonderful space to relax and spend time with your family.

Aside from the personal enjoyment of your manicured landscape, landscape maintenance is vital to maintaining value. An unruly, dying landscape with hardscaping features that need repair will diminish curb appeal and resale value. If you decide to sell your home, potential buyers will think that other parts of your home aren’t maintained as well.

It keeps your lawn and plants healthy

A landscape and lawn care regime will keep your plants and lawn healthy and lush all summer long. This regime should include watering, lawn mowing, trimming, and pruning of shrubs and trees and keep garden beds clear of debris. You might also consider aerating in the spring and fall, as well as regular fertilization to help that grass grow green!

When you keep up with these tasks, your lawn, plants, and trees become strong and healthier. Regular attention makes them easier to maintain, helps prevents disease, and helps them fight off unwanted weeds and pests. These are all landscaping services offered by MAAC Services & Integral Solutions Ltd.

Professional services save time and money

Professional landscape design and installation are not cheap, but they are well worth the investment. Paying a little for regular maintenance will help prevent damage or issues that will cost more money to repair down the road. If you can’t commit to caring for the lawn and landscape, hire a professional and save yourself the headache! Then you can spend your free time enjoying your oasis with peace of mind know it’s healthy and well cared for.

If you prefer a low-maintenance landscape, there are plenty of options for you! Check out these ideas for easy-to-care-for landscapes for your home.

Landscapers in Richmond

MSS MAAC Services & Integral Solutions Ltd. offers a wide range of landscape maintenance, hardscaping, home services, and property maintenance services to residential, commercial, and strata properties. Whether you’re installing new landscaping, need a lawn care regime, handyman services, snow removal, or property maintenance services for your commercial property, they can help. They’re dedicated to the pursuit of detailed excellence, quality work, and satisfaction for their clients.

Contact them to design your new landscape or for landscape care.  

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

Are your windows old, letting in a draft or just desperately in need of a change? It can be an intimidating job to complete, which is why it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re doing it correctly. To help you, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to replace your old windows.

When to change a window

A general rule is to change your windows every 20 years, but you may decide to change it earlier if it no longer fits the aesthetic of your home.

There are a few tell-tale signs that your window needs replacing, for example, draughts and cold spots around the window, problems opening and closing the window and condensation in the interior windowpane.

Not only can some of these issues be a safety concern, potentially leading to mould growth, but some can cost you money. Around 30% of a property’s heat is lost through poorly performing windows, therefore, by ignoring your faulty windows, your energy bill will be a lot higher than it needs to be.

Measuring the window space

Using a tape measure, measure the width of the window, from the left jamb to the right jamb. Repeat the measurement at the top, middle and bottom of the window, using the smallest measurement as your true measurement.

Now, measure the height from the top jamb to the windowsill, repeating this three times at the left, centre and right of the window. Take the smallest distance as your true measurement.

Check the squareness by measuring diagonally across the window from both sides. If there’s a difference of over 1.25cm between the readings, consider contacting a professional.

It is crucial to get these initial measurements right, or you could end up with an impossible task. Too much pressure? Why not leave it to the experts? The Handy Squad’s London handyman service can help you! Request a free quote today by filling out our online form or give us a call on 0800-0-12-12-12.

Buying a new window

Using your measurements, visit a DIY/home improvement store and look around for windows that match the style you’re going for. Alternatively, you could look online.

It’s a good rule of thumb to buy a window around 1.5cm smaller than your existing opening, as it’s easy framing to existing frames to make them smaller.

Removing your old window and frame

Start by removing the inside stops with a thin pry bar, trying not to damage them as they will be reattached later on. You can use a thin blade to score along the edge of the frame if there’s any paint in the way.

Once the stops are out, the inside sash should slide out with ease. Some sashes are connected by a chain or cord, so it’s good to have a friend help with the procedure and cut the sash free.

Slide the upper sash down and remove the parting stop, which is a thin strip of wood that sits against the upper sash, and the sash should slide out easily.

Clean up the remaining frame, removing any old paint or caulk. Check for rotted wood by running a flathead screwdriver along the frame – if there’s any crumbling or soft spots, call a professional to inspect it and potentially install a new frame.

Need a helping hand? There’s no shame in enlisting the professionals. Our decorators in London will arrive with all the necessary tools and equipment to help you complete your task quickly and efficiently. Request a free quote today by filling out our online form or give us a call on 0800-0-12-12-12.

Installing the new window

First, have a friend help you lift the window into the frame to check it fits. There should be a 1.3cm-1.9cm gap around its perimeter, as planned.

Run a single 0.95cm bead of waterproof, exterior-grade caulk along the exterior stops and two beads along the sill, then have a friend help you lift the window into place. Secure the window with a loose screw in the upper jamb.

Open and close the sash to check for levelness and ensure that everything’s working smoothly. If it is, insert a shim between the window and frame next to each predrilled hole, and drill the screws that come with your kit into each hole. Use a handsaw to trim any shims that stick out.

Finishing touches

Hammer three galvanised-finish nails into the left, middle and right of each stop that you put back into place. Go outside and use exterior-grade caulk to fill any gaps that are less than 0.64cm, and use foam-rubber backer rod to fill larger gaps. Apply continuous beads between the replacement window and the existing frame, being sure not to caulk the gap between the sashes and the jambs of the replacement window, or it won’t open.

If you need help with any DIY projects, why not call The Handy Squad? Our team of experts can help with almost any task, such as replacing lights, fixing ceiling cracks and hanging up doors. We can also help with bigger projects, like interior and exterior redecorating and kitchen installations. If replacing your windows doesn’t fix your draught problem, we also offer a draught proofing service. Request a free quote by filling out our online booking form.

The post How to replace a window appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Plan Your Next Home Improvement with the 10 Benefits of “Having a Handyman” Things You May Not Have Thought

Professional craftspeople are a wonderful resource to streamline any home improvement project or repair. Here are 10 benefits that you might not have thought of yet with this option.

The 10 Benefits of a Professional Handyman and Craftspeople

1.   Experience: Years of experience have created streamlined projects, methods, and results.

2.   Expertise: Professionals have completed these projects many times and continue to do so with practiced ease.

3.   Convenience: Professionals will complete your projects on your time and personalized schedule.

4.   Less Risk: Completing home improvement projects on your own can be risky if you have never used the tools before or have not completed a similar project. Save yourself the hassle with a pro.

5.   Excellent Results: Get your project done right the first time with a professional handyman and craftspeople’s help.

6.   Communication: During an estimate with a handyman company, the craftspeople are here to see how they can help you and fit their service to your needs.

7.   Advice: If this is your first time working on a certain update in your home, you can learn about various options, costs, materials, and more with a professional’s knowledge.

8.   Dependable: During an estimate, ask for reviews and customer references to see the quality work a professional handyman and craftspeople create.

9.   Hassle-free: Save yourself the time and effort in completing home improvement projects on your own.

10.   Clarity: Hiring one handyman or a team of craftspeople gives you access to many kinds of repairs, improvements, and more all around your home. There is no need for different contractors, and multiple hires. All your needs can be completed in one convenient place.

With these 10 points, the convenience and ease of hiring craftspeople from a local handyman profession will help your project become a reality. Get the help you need and start planning your next project right away.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact Handyman Connection to plan your next improvement. Call or text us to meet and schedule your free estimate right away.

The post 10 Benefits of “Having a Handyman” Things You May Not Have Thought of appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

The primary source that Edmonton gets its water from is the North Saskatchewan River. EPCOR has classified the water as moderately hard regarding the minerals it contains. There are disadvantages to having hard water in your home, but don’t worry. It’s easy enough to fix.

Ritz Mechanical Services in Edmonton can help soften your water, and has three reasons why you should:

Help your appliances and pipes last longer

One of the notable issues with hard water is the eventual build-up of minerals within a home’s piping system. With prolonged use, this mineral build-up is even seen within appliances that use water like dishwashers or washing machines. By softening a home’s water supply, you can reduce the build-up of scale which can help to extend their life. Save yourself the cost of unneeded replacements or repairs that hard water can cause.

Soft water is more effective

When a home has hard water, it’s easy to notice. Things like dish soap or hand soap don’t produce as much lather, which means you wind up using more. It’s also seen with detergents as the minerals in hard water sometimes caused the soap to form a tacky layer. Running a load through twice to clear it means increasing your water consumption and increasing the minerals in your appliance.

Hard water can be tough on your skin

Hard water can cause dry, irritated skin. This is because the minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium can clog your pores. When minerals are present on the clogged pores, the skin can dry out, become flaky, itchy, and uncomfortable. People who suffer from dry skin can often find relief when their water is treated with a softener.

Hard water doesn’t rinse soap as well

Hard water also means it can be difficult to get the soap out of hair or clothes when you’re washing. If you don’t get all the soap out of your clothes, this can cause a skin reaction when you wear them.  Soap that doesn’t get washed out can also stain your clothes, which is very annoying to find. Not washing all the soap out of your hair is bad for your scalp and can cause other skin issues.

Plumbers in Edmonton

Ritz Mechanical has offered plumbing installations and repairs, hydronic heating, and water purification services to Edmonton for over 20 years. Their multi-generational plumbing knowledge means that you can feel confident in trusting their work. They recognize the importance of their customers, and they are committed to providing exceptional service. They have a lot of repeat customers and look forward to welcoming new customers as well.

Reach out to Ritz Mechanical Services for your filtration needs today.

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

A roof replacement is not a job you want to DIY. It’s hard work, dangerous, and could leave your home unprotected if not done right. It’s not worth the hassle to save a little money. Hiring a professional has so many benefits. Pneumatic Roofing in Calgary shares why you should hire a pro for your roof replacement this year:

Industry discounts on roofing products

One of the benefits of hiring a professional contractor is that they receive industry discounts on supplies. Pneumatic Roofing has designed their business to be sure that their clients see this. They take pride in the fact that all materials included in their estimates are the price that they themselves pay. By having a contractor that is so open and transparent about the way they do business, you can rest easy in hiring them.

Save time and money

Roofers are specially trained and have the extensive knowledge to get the job done right the first time. This includes little details like knowing how to calculate the amount of materials needed to reroof a home. There are things like the pitch of your roof, and the amount your eavestrough hangs over to consider as well. Professionals can save you time, mistakes and money by saving you from trial and error. It can also save you multiple trips to the building supply store. You don’t want to realize halfway through that you don’t have enough shingles.

Plus, a roofer with years of experience like Pneumatic Roofing can more efficiently and effectively install your roof. They have the equipment and tools to get the shingles on the roof and have a system for fast and effective installation. When your roof is exposed, you want to get those new shingles up before the next storm rolls in.

Professional expertise

By hiring a professional, you’re hiring someone who knows exactly what is needed to do a job properly. Hiring a roofer means your home will be fully protected from the elements. Faulty installation can result in premature failure of the roof, leaks, and repairs. You aren’t just hiring for the labour; you’re hiring someone who knows exactly what they’re doing. Trust the experts and go with hiring a professional. You’ll end up with a flawless, professionally installed roof that will last for years to come.

Roofers in Calgary

Pneumatic Roofing has over a decade of experience in the roofing industry. Their business model is set up so that clients are aware of exactly what is happening each step of the way. Their belief in honesty and transparency is seen in every single job and means client satisfaction every time. When it comes to roofing a home, you want to hire someone you can trust. Pneumatic Roofing makes that an easy decision.

Speak to Pneumatic Roofing about your roof today.

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

Custom cabinets are a great way to combine function with style. From the kitchen and bathrooms to a walk-in closet, custom cabinets and unique storage solutions can provide practical value to your home. Crown Custom Cabinets in Calgary offer many ways to incorporate custom cabinetry into your home. 

Kitchen and bathrooms

Custom cabinetry is a great way to improve aesthetics and functionality in the kitchen. They’re great for smaller kitchens in particular because they offer storage solutions that aren’t available with stock cabinetry. Upper cabinets or open shelving can provide you more with the space to display dishware and decor. Lower cabinets, on the other hand, can have built-in features to maximize organization like glide-out shelving. Your options are nearly endless. For inspiration, check out these kitchen cabinet design ideas. 

In the bathroom, a custom cabinet installation can make the most out of small spaces and still provide the storage you need. They can also add to the style of your bathroom, and turn it into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of. Crown Custom Cabinets in Calgary can help design the perfect cabinets for either the kitchen or the bathroom. 

Walk-in closets

A walk-in closet can be a great feature for your master bedroom. If your walk-in closet is constantly disorganized, it can benefit from custom closet and other unique storage solutions. Tailor-made to fit any space, these custom closet solutions can display your clothes any way you want. They can also provide space for shoes and other accessories you need quick access to. Crown Custom Cabinets can create your dream closet. They can help you maximize the use of the space, even in smaller closets.

Laundry and mud rooms

A custom cabinet installation can help sort out your cluttered laundry room. It’ll give everything a proper place, and keeping everything neat and tidy. Similar to laundry rooms, mudrooms and entryways can get messy quick – especially with busy families. If you’re lacking closet space, or don’t seem to have a proper place for things like coats, backpacks, shoes, and winterwear, talk to Crown Custom Cabinets about how they can help. Custom cabinetry and other unique storage features can turn both your laundry room and mudroom organized and attractive.

Custom Cabinets in Calgary

Crown Custom Cabinets is a proud family-owned and operated business. They take pride in their company and the value and quality they offer clients. With over 31 years of experience, they’ve built their company from the ground up, and are extremely proud of its continued success. 

For more information, check out Crown Custom Cabinets today!

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