Foundation and structural concrete repair

Discovering your home or commercial building has foundation issues is stressful. Depending on the severity of the damage, it would mean an extensive and expensive repair.

Shield Foundation Repair in Edmonton is an all-service foundation repair company that can help you restore your foundation and home. They share some signs you might have issues with and share more about their foundation and structural concrete repair services:

Signs you have foundation issues

Noticeable distress of your foundation’s exterior or interior can indicate an issue. Cracks, gaps, water stains, mould, and even lines running along the concrete can be signs. You might also notice uneven floors and ceilings, loose or tight window and door frames, strange cracks in your tile or drywall, or crumbling brick. These can be symptoms of foundation issues and require an inspection as soon as possible. Contact Shield Foundation Repair for an inspection if you notice these foundation damage warning signs.

How can you repair the foundation?

There are two common methods for foundation repair. Depending on the size and type of damage, a foundation repair company might use one over the other.

Slabjacking: Slab jacking is like concrete lifting. Foundation repair contractors use this method for buildings built on a concrete slab instead of with a below-grade basement. For example, if your garage slab is sinking on one end and causing damage to the building, contractors can lift it to fix the problem.

Piering: Piering involves using metal or concrete posts to secure a failing foundation. Contractors will drill push piers into the foundation with a hydraulic tool. Or, helical piers are drilled deep into the ground, and hydraulic jacks lift the sinking foundation to the proper level. Then the foundation is secured in place with special heavy-duty wall brackets. Piering can be less expensive compared to full excavation. However, your foundation repair contractor will determine the best method for your issue.

Structural concrete repair

Structural concrete repairs can assist with damaged foundation flooring, retaining walls, sidewalks, driveways, concrete footings, pillars, curbs, steps, and other concrete structures. Whether it’s for a commercial or residential project, Shield Foundation Repair can help reduce costs and downtime. They use concrete repair techniques and quality materials that make the job quick, reliable, and built to last.

Foundation Repair in Edmonton

Shield Foundation Repair offers a full suite of foundation repair, basement waterproofing, structural concrete repair and restoration services. They also offer asbestos and mould removal services. If you suspect you have issues, contact them for an inspection. They’ll manage your project from start to finish, including restoring walls and floors, regrading landscaping, concrete and deck repairs and more.

Don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact Shield Foundation Repair today!

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

Artificial grass and sod are both great lawn options, but they also offer different benefits. Knowing the benefits and considerations of both options will help you choose the option that best suits your needs.

Mohr’s Landscaping in Edmonton is a full-service landscaping company. They share more about the differences between artificial grass and sod:

Artificial grass

Good quality artificial grass can be difficult to distinguish from real grass by looking at it, which is ideal. Artificial grass is made from a polyethylene material–commonly found in plastics–heated and shaped into strands. The blades are then coloured and given UV-resistant additives. Finally, the thatch layer of the grass is typically made from polypropylene, polyethylene or nylon material. That final layer creates the necessary support for the grass, so the blades don’t stay bent even when you walk on it.

Pros and considerations

The main benefit of artificial grass is the positive environmental impact and long-term cost savings. Without regularly needing to water the lawn, you’ll save gallons of water in a single year and on monthly bills. There’s no need for weed or pesticide control either, and weeds can’t get through the thatching. Since the blades are artificial, you’ll never have to mow again. Not only that, but you’ll also save more by not needing expensive lawn equipment. Often, blowing off leaves and debris a few times a season is enough to keep it looking great.

Unlike natural grass, artificial grass can collect heat during the summer and feel hotter on your feet. In addition, the grass will need regular hosing to prevent odours from lingering if you have pets. The initial cost of artificial grass is also much higher per square footage than sod. Unfortunately, opting for even cheaper options comes at the risk of looking noticeably fake and plastic.

Sod

Sod or turf applies sections of readily grown grass to a dirt surface to instantly create a lush and full lawn. It can easily replace areas of your lawn that are damaged or just now growing. In addition, many golf courses, businesses, recreational fields and homes will use sod as a quick way to boost appeal without the time and maintenance required to grow new grass.

Pros and considerations

Sod is an instant and easy way to get a lawn without waiting. It is also highly flexible and is easy to install at any point in the year, outside of winter. After two to three weeks of watering, the sod is healthy and strong enough to walk on. Sod itself is very hardy compared to seed-grown lawns, so there is less risk of the grass failing. The initial cost to install sod per square foot is also much less expensive than artificial grass.

On the other hand, the sod requires a lifetime of maintenance. The grass needs regular watering, mowing, aeration, and potential fertilization. Whether you’re hiring a lawn care company or doing it yourself, those costs will start to add up. That is something to consider.

Landscapers in Edmonton

Mohr’s Landscaping is a locally owned and operated full featured landscaping company. Their services range from minor residential projects to full-scale commercial properties. Regardless of the project size, they work with you every step of the way to ensure your satisfaction. With Mohr’s Landscaping, no detail is ever overlooked.

Contact Mohr’s Landscaping today!

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

Not only will a shabby exterior diminish the protection of your home and its resale value, but it can also reduce your personal enjoyment of your home. Protect your home’s value, improve your energy efficiency and show pride of ownership by giving the outside of your house a well-deserved makeover.

Dakota Exteriors & Roofing in Winnipeg offer exterior renovation services, specializing in roofing, siding, eavestroughs, soffit, fascia, windows and doors. They share four ways you can upgrade your home’s exterior this year:

Roof replacement

You might not have looked up to your roof lately, but if it’s over 15 years old, it’s probably time to have it replaced. Unfortunately, an old asphalt roof does not age gracefully. Curling, peeling, deteriorating and missing shingles are all signs that your roof needs to be replaced. Not only will it ensure your home is protected from the outdoor elements and prevent expensive water damage in the future, but it is also one of the first things potential home buyers will look for when searching for properties. In addition to offering adequate protection for your home, a new roof will boost your home’s curb appeal drastically.

It might be covered in snow now, but if your roof was looking worse for wear in the fall, you should schedule your spring roof replacement now.

Energy-efficient windows & doors

New windows and doors can make a huge difference when it comes to the way your home looks from the outside. Old drafty windows, or damaged windows, will be responsible for significant energy loss. Unfortunately, old and inefficient windows allow heat to escape in the winter and let in the hot sun’s rays in the summer, putting more strain on your heating and cooling system and increasing your energy bill. Not only will you find your home more comfortable with new windows and doors, but you’ll also enjoy the lower utility bills. Plus, your new windows and door will look better and help increase your home’s resale value.

New siding

Installing brand new siding will drastically update the face of your home. New siding will protect your home, improve its energy efficiency and boost your property value in a big way. Dakota Exteriors & Roofer offers various siding options, including vinyl, fibre cement,  and natural stone veneer. No matter which material you choose, your new siding will be easier to maintain and be resistant to weather. In addition, new siding will make your home more aesthetically pleasing for your family and for future home buyers.

Replacing your eavestrough system

Eavestroughs that have detached from the roof of your house or sagging soffits can significantly decrease your home’s curb appeal. More than looking poorly, your eavestrough system is crucial for your home’s drainage. It ensures the water from rain and snow is shed away from the foundation of your home. If that water pools near your foundation, it could cause your foundation to break down over time. That will cause leaks, flooding in your basement and costly water damage. New gutters can maximize your home’s value and protection.

While Dakota Exteriors inspects your gutters, they can also look at your soffits, fascia and roofing system. Having a professional inspection of these systems will ensure your home is well-protected. It can also catch minor issues before they become more extensive and expensive repairs.

Exterior Renovations in Winnipeg

Dakota Exteriors and Roofing offer premier exterior renovation services to Winnipeg and surrounding areas. From roofing, siding, soffit and fascia, eavestroughs, stonework to windows, doors, and exterior insulation, they offer it all. If you want to improve the protection, appearance, and value of your home, start planning your exterior renovation with Dakota exteriors today.

Contact them here!

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

Floor and ceiling dents, or stains, can be a serious problem for homeowners in need of extensive home renovations.

The dents or stains on your floor and ceiling are not only unsightly but also pose a hazard to the structural stability of your building. This is why it’s important to invest resources into both timely repairs and regular home maintenance services that take care of all those potential issues before they become emergencies.

If the floor and ceiling of your home are badly damaged, there could be several issues:

1. Cracks and crevices
   Generally, crevices that become damp and allow mold to accumulate can lead to structural problems.
2. Water damage
   Water damage from floods or leaks can also be a serious issue for your home’s structure. 
3. Loss of structural integrity
   Dents or stains on floor or ceiling could cause structural damages like loosening beams, cross-beams, joists and other hangers.

There are several things you can do to make sure your floor and ceiling are in good condition: 

1. Regular maintenance
   Regular home maintenance services are important to keep up with for any home. If you have a floor or ceiling that has been damaged, it’s important that you contact a professional to take care of the repairs. They will offer great advice on getting rid of dents and stains while ensuring it has been done properly.
2. Clean carpets
   Carpet stains can be hard to remove without proper cleaning. If you have stains in the carpet, it’s best to hire professionals to clean it. Also, make sure there are no old stains left on the floor.
3. Properly ventilate rooms
   Proper ventilation is also important for floors and ceilings to survive for the long term. Make sure your home’s air conditions are working properly and that there are no leaky windows or ceiling tiles that allow water to collect.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact your local office team to schedule your home maintenance services today. Call or text to schedule a free estimate.

The post Floor & Ceiling Dents or Stains That Can Kill the Aesthetic of a Room appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Looking to give your staircase a whole new look? Why not paint the stairs? Paint is a budget-friendly way of uplifting your stairs and giving your home a new splash of colour. As a blank canvas, stairs are ideal for a new lick of paint. So, the question now is… how to paint stairs?

Plan it out.

Before getting out the paintbrush or even thinking of sanding your stairs, it’s important to know what you want to achieve. Do you want to go for a single colour? Do you want to go for a bold look? Do you want to make your stairs unique? Many people use painter’s tape or stencils to create various templates on their chosen surface. The same can be done with stairs.

What you will need:

• • Sander
  • Dust mask
  • Cleaning solution and cloth
  • Masking tape
  • Painter’s tape
  • Paint brush
  • Paint scraper
  • Wood filler
  • Paint roller
  • Paint tray
  • Primer

Clean and sand.

No matter the surface you are painting, there will always be some prep work. Thoroughly clean your stairs. Repair any loose or broken parts of your stairs and remember to fill any dents with wood filler. Next, sand down the stairs to prepare the floor for painting. Use a dust mask while sanding the stairs.

In case you are too busy to paint your staircase yourself or would prefer if a professional did it for you, why not get one of our London decorators? At the Handy Squad, we have a team of expert painters and decorators all across London who will be able to paint stairs, paint walls or paint your whole house while they are at it (or complete a variety of other painting services).

Prime time.

Choosing a good primer is key to ensuring your stairs will remain looking stunning for many years to come. As stairs are highly used and get a good amount of wear, it’s important to prime them before painting.

Tape out your template.

If you’ve chosen to use painter’s tape to create a unique template, now is the time to start taping your stairs with your chosen template. Once you are happy with your template, it’s time to paint. Don’t forget to tape the sides of your staircase too (so you don’t accidentally also paint your walls).

Get the paint brush.

Paint your stairs (whatever colour you prefer!) and then let them dry. Allow for the paint to dry completely before walking on your stairs. Remove the painter’s tape and admire your hard work!

 

Disclaimer

At the Handy Squad, we strongly advise that you always take safety precautions into consideration when undertaking a DIY project. We also strongly suggest that you closely read and follow the instructions, that are provided by the manufacturer, of any building materials, products or tools you use for your projects.

Our aim is to provide you with clear and correct instructions, so that you can easily complete any DIY project you desire. However, please note that the information we provide should only be used as a guideline and that some information within the text may not be entirely accurate.

When using our articles for information and advice, please note that it is your own responsibility to determine whether you are capable of undertaking and executing the task you wish to complete.

Before starting a DIY task, it is essential that you inform yourself of any existing building, gas, water and electrical works regulations. If you were to have any further concerns, we recommend that you complete additional research and/or contact the necessary professional body.

We also strongly recommend that a qualified tradesperson completes the relevant safety tests and checks on any DIY work you have completed

The post How to paint stairs appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Blog written by Prestige Woodworks in Edmonton

From the ground up, deck design is both an art and a science. It’s not just about what looks good or what costs the least. At Prestige Woodworks we believe successful decks are built on a solid foundation, and each part of the deck needs to be designed to ensure that your home and property are protected from the elements, now and for years to come.

If you’re in the process of finding a deck contractor, chances are you have a lot of questions. What kind of materials will be best to use on my new deck? How do I know if my deck is rotting? How much can I afford to spend? Some questions, however, get asked more often than others — and one such question that often gets asked is, “Can I reuse my old deck framing?”

Many factors come into play as to why the frame may look in better condition than it really is. There are a couple key things to look for when inspecting a deck and framing. There’s no point installing a modern composite decking product with a 25-year warranty over a frame that’s past its prime.

Check for Decay

Inspect the ledger board, support posts, and joists beneath your deck. Look for small holes or holes surrounded by sawdust or wood dust, and for loose or protruding nails and screws. In addition, look at areas of your deck that are frequently exposed to water, are consistently damp, or are in regular contact with fasteners. If you can easily penetrate the wood or if the wood is soft and spongy, then you might have some form of wood decay. If anything has begun to rot or decay, it’s time to replace it.

Test the Stability

Does the deck feel soft in any areas or are there any split boards? Does it feel solid when you walk on it? If there is deck movement where there shouldn’t be that is a classic sign of rotten boards, joists, or footings. It needs to be repaired or replaced.

Importance of Railings

There are many options for a stylish deck railing. Choices such as cabling, glass, and aluminum have a great impact on the appearance of the deck. It’s also important that railings and posts look and feel secure and are built to code.

When it is time to replace your deck, we recommend that you start fresh.

Not only does this give you peace of mind that the framing is safe, but it ensures that your project is built and installed correctly. Trying to save an old deck’s framework would increase labour costs, as it takes more time to remove old decking and railing to avoid damaging any of the framing and to square up the old deck again and fix any damaged areas.

It may seem like a large investment however, in our experience, replacing the framing of the deck now will save a lot of money and headaches down the road.

Deck Builders in Edmonton

Prestige Woodworks prides itself on building and designing decks that will enhance outdoor living, property value, and lifestyle. Their focus on top-quality materials, designs, and years of experience has made them experts at their jobs. Whether you need a new deck, fence, pergola, outdoor kitchen or more, they are the ones to call.

Contact Prestige Woodworks today!

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

Blog written by Prestige Woodworks in Edmonton

With so many under and unqualified contractors competing alongside seasoned professionals, it’s more important than ever to be careful when choosing a carpentry contractor to build your new deck.

1. When Selecting the Best Contractor, Start with the Basics

Any trustworthy contractor will have all the required insurance and licenses in order. General liability insurance and WCB are two key areas to check. Also, confirm City licensing is in order. It’s also always a good idea to ask for and check references. A reputable contractor will be able to provide several references. Consider when the work was done. It’s advisable to have a mix of old and new clients so you can gauge the quality of work overtime.

2. Digging Deeper

Provided the contractor you’re interviewing has passed the above basic tests, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Are they qualified? Are they experts in their field? Do you like the look of their past projects? What’re their business practices and their overall knowledge of the product and scope of work you’re considering hiring them for?

It’s always good to look for industry affiliations such as an established relationship with a known decking manufacturer. This helps to ensure they’re up to date on the newest products and installation techniques.

Quality is always top of mind for Prestige Woodworks who has established relationships with local suppliers and manufacturers. To ensure your investment is a solid one, only work with companies that adhere to industry best practices in establishing a set of standards.

3. Relationship-Based Contracting

We can not stress this one enough. We believe relationships are one of the most important factors in deciding which contractor to select. A contractor who takes the time to get to know you and build a relationship with you is a contractor who will be successful in implementing your vision. At Prestige Woodworks we call this ‘Relationship Based Contracting’.

At times, you’ll need to work closely with your contractor so, it’s important you get along and that you can communicate concisely and effectively with them. Look for a contractor who has integrity and strong communication skills. Trusting someone to work on your home is huge, so ensure you hire someone who takes the time to show you that they genuinely care about you and your job.

Follow these guidelines when selecting your next carpentry to fit the perfect fit for a successful project. Learn more about us and our approach.

Deck Builders in Edmonton

Prestige Woodworks prides itself on building and designing decks that will enhance outdoor living, property value, and lifestyle. Their focus on top-quality materials, designs, and years of experience has made them experts at their jobs. Whether you need a new deck, fence, pergola, outdoor kitchen or more, they are the ones to call.

Contact Prestige Woodworks today!

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

Blog Written by Can Do More Painting Inc. in Calgary

The kitchen is usually considered the heart of any home, which is why it should always look nice. Kitchen renovations are exciting, especially when it comes to interior painting and refinishing cabinets. Cabinet refinishing in Calgary is a great way to breathe new life into your kitchen without the expense of a complete overhaul.

Before you start a project, you should research different companies to see which one is the greatest fit for you. Here’s how to choose a professional cabinet refinisher.

Services Required

Refinishing, refacing, and even replacing your old cabinets are all potential services provided by cabinet refinishers. Expert contractors can assist you in determining the best type of restoration for your cabinets. You’ll want a contractor who can meet your objectives while staying within your budget, but you’ll also want someone you can trust to execute an excellent job.

Expertise and Experience

The contractors you hire should be able to handle your kitchen project with the necessary ability and expertise. A company with a lot of experience in the field offers great cabinetry craftsmanship. Examine their previous work to see if their design and style are to your liking. A skilled painter will be able to discern the difference and assist you in determining which option is best for your cabinets. As a result, look for companies that have been in operation for at least a few years. Ensure they have numerous previous projects to view and a history of positive online reviews.

Licensed, Bonded and Insurance

Professional refinishers have the necessary certificates and business licenses to conduct business in the city and province. The accreditations provide assurance that the job will be of high quality. Make sure any contractor that requests a deposit has a prepaid contractors license with the Government of Alberta. Additionally, select a company that has a proper insurance policy in place to safeguard you from any liability in the event of an accident.

Estimated Budget

Refinishing and refacing cabinets are less expensive options than purchasing new cabinetry. A reface or refinish will cost 40 percent to 80 percent less than replacing your cabinets. Request estimates from several contractors and compare them to determine which company is the best fit for your cabinet renovation. Many businesses will provide a free quote for their services so that you know how much the job will cost before they begin. Find out if their proposal is just an estimate or if they offer cost certainty.

Guarantees and Options

Cabinets in the kitchen can last up to 50 years. Choose a refacing service for your kitchen cabinets that uses high-quality materials. Cabinets with real wood and high-quality coatings will last longer before requiring additional restoration. Is there a documented warranty of the services provided by the contractor?

Reviews and Feedback

Check out the reviews and feedback from previous clients of the contractors to get an idea about their services. Online reviews will provide insight into the quality of services they offer. Make sure to check multiple sources such as Google, HomeStars, RenovationFind, Houzz, and the BBB. Of course, you can ask family and friends for recommendations but make you verify them with an online search.

Additional Services

Make sure that you ask the contractors if they provide additional services, such as installing a new countertop, backsplash, cabinet hardware, sink and faucet, new doors, or even minor cabinet repairs and modifications.

Final Thoughts

While it may appear to be an easy task, cabinet painting and a kitchen renovation in Calgary is usually not a do-it-yourself project unless you have extensive prior knowledge. Therefore, hiring an experienced professional like Can Do More Painting – Renovation and Design might be incredibly beneficial in this situation.

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

Blog written by Can Do More Painting Inc. in Calgary

Did you know that kitchen renovation in Calgary is one of the most cost-effective methods to increase the value of your home? It is crucial to keep your kitchen maintained and up to date as it is the most frequently used room in the house.

Here are some simple and inexpensive ways to renovate your kitchen for a fraction of the cost of a full overhaul.

Refinishing Cabinets

This is by far the simplest way to give your kitchen a low-cost yet dramatic makeover. If your cabinet drawers and doors are in good shape, refinishing them can save you thousands of dollars. It can be a time-consuming project once you get started, but your kitchen will look brand new in less than a week.

New Cabinet Doors

Getting new doors instead of full replacement is another cost-saving kitchen renovation idea. You can get new cabinet doors with a different look and design to add depth to the kitchen.

New Countertops

You can choose a new countertop to give your kitchen a new look. If you are afraid of breaking the budget, there are many lower-cost options on entry-level quartz. You may be surprised at how many options are available for an affordable price.

New Hardware

New hardware will help enhance the aesthetic of your kitchen for less, whether you choose to refinish existing cabinet doors or get new ones. Look for energy-efficient plumbing and light fixtures to save money on utility and energy bills in the long run!

Install a Backsplash

A kitchen backsplash is a simple project with a significant visual impact. There are several options ranging from lick-and-stick backslashes that don’t require much cutting to the most custom look with real tile, which requires a trowel and tile cutter, as well as finishing with a pre-mixed grout. You can also go for a beadboard backsplash, which is one of the quickest, easiest, and most cost-effective kitchen renovation solutions.

Interior Painting

Interior painting in Calgary such as painting kitchen cabinets is one of the classic ways to renovate and upgrade the kitchen without putting a strain on your savings. Depending on how many cabinets you have, the sanding, priming, and painting procedure can take a long time. However, once finished, it will give your kitchen a completely new look.

New Sink and Faucet

Purchasing new appliances make a bold statement to any kitchen. By adding a new sink or faucet, you can give your kitchen a fresh look without spending too much. You will; however, have to ensure that the new sink and faucet fit well with the existing space.

Lighting

Installing new lights can instantly add a wow factor to any room. New lights brighten up the place and make your kitchen look more spacious. If you are looking for inexpensive and modern options, try adding pendants over the island or countertop, add a gooseneck sconce over the sink, or simply add a series of tiny white or yellow lights in front of the cabinets or around the ceiling. This will provide a relaxing atmosphere, and you will perhaps even enjoy cooking.

Final Thoughts

There are various ways to renovate your kitchen without breaking your wallet. Cost-saving kitchen renovation ideas and cabinet painting in Calgary will help upgrade the room as well as increase the value of your home. In the end, your kitchen will represent your lifestyle; therefore, it is essential to keep it maintained.

Can Do More Painting – Renovation and Design can take care of all your renovation needs such as a new countertop, tile backsplash, sink and faucet, lighting, plumbing, electrical, and of course cabinet refinishing.

Find out what affordable options you have to makeover your kitchen with Can Do More Painting – Renovation and Design. For a free meeting, contact them today!

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

Home automation adds luxury, convenience, and energy efficiency to your home. Home automation will also add value to your home, and it’s fun to use too!

Often, home automation in Calgary integrates home security into the system. Integrating your home’s security and surveillance with your home automation system has several benefits.

Complete security coverage with home automation

Combining home security with your home automation will give your home complete coverage and protection. You can use many home automation features to improve home security in Calgary, in addition to an alarm and security cameras. For example, you can program your lights to turn on and off during the day. Controlling your lights will make it look like someone is at home, deterring potential intruders. You can also use it to ensure the doors are locked or unlock the door for kids returning home from school.

Smart security surveillance allows you to cast a watchful eye over your home. You can access the feed from your smartphone or device, no matter where you are. Citadel Domotics has partnered with Hikvision, and can integrate your security camera system into your Loxone home automation system. Real-time home security will ensure your home can be monitored and protected at all times.

Manage and monitor your home from your smartphone

A key benefit of home automation and smart home security is to manage and monitor your home from wherever you are. Easy-to-use applications allow you to control things like lights, temperature, and window coverings from your phone. You can also activate your alarm system, lock and unlock doors, and monitor your property’s surveillance system. It’s all connected to your home automation and controlled through your smart device.

With the Loxone app, you can monitor the operation of your home’s features separately, without an internet connection. It’s compatible with Apple and Android phones, PCs, and tablets.

Install both systems at the same time

If you’re installing a comprehensive home automation system, it makes sense to include the security and surveillance system simultaneously. Installers can be more efficient with wiring and installing features of these integrated systems if they’re doing it at the same time. You’ll instantly benefit from the effectiveness and efficiency of these systems in your home.

Citadel Domotics is a Loxone Silver Partner and Hikvision surveillance system dealer. They can provide information on both systems. They’ll also show how you can get maximum coverage for your Calgary home automation and intelligent security system.

Contact Citadel Domotics to learn more!

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