Spring home improvement projects

Spring is not only synonymous with blooming flowers and annual deep cleaning but it is also one of the best times of the year to complete a plethora of home renovation projects. Why is this? Well, if you want to get your home ready for summer and summer gatherings, start making small improvements here and there.

Indoor home improvement projects.

1. Paint cabinets and cupboards.

A new coat of paint will do wonders for your cupboards and cabinets. Whether you want to give your kitchen cabinets an uplift or want to rejuvenate your bathroom cupboards – a new lick of paint is the way to go. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty and are searching for a “decorator near me” to complete the task instead, our decorators in London are the team for the job. We can paint kitchen cabinets, paint doors and paint a variety of other surfaces.

2. Replace old light switches.

   

Small details, like light switches, are not given much attention until they stop working as they should. However, light switches are similar to any other detail of your home – they get worn out, outdated and discoloured. What better way to refresh your home than to swap out these small details?

Related: How to change a light switch.

If you are not comfortable replacing light switches or doing any small electrical work, contact a professional. At the Handy Squad, we have a team of London electricians who can replace light switches, install new light fixtures, replace extractor fans and more.

3. Upgrade flooring.

Replacing flooring will give the interiors of your home a completely new look. Whether you want to choose a different type of wooden flooring or want a full transformation to a completely different flooring type – why not do it? We would recommend hiring a professional for the job. Replacing flooring will require a professional hand to ensure it is done properly.

Outdoor home improvement projects.

1. Rearrange the garden shed.

   

Have you been using your garden shed as storage for clutter that one day “you might need”? Time to de-clutter and rearrange your shed. Go one step further fully transform the space. Ever you always wanted a family games room? Are you looking to create a home office more connected to the outdoor space? Turn your garden shed into the space of your dreams.

Related: How to paint a wooden shed.

2. Pressure wash patio.

   

Is your patio looking dirty, grimy and greasy? Time for a clean. The quickest and easiest way to give your patio a fresh, new look is to pressure wash it. By power washing your patio, you can easily get rid of any mould, dirt, grime and debris that has accumulated during the colder months. Need a helping hand? Stop looking for pressure washing services and call our team.

3. Add lighting to the back garden.

   

Spend more time outside by adding some lighting to your back garden. Add lighting near your outdoor dining area, some spotlights around your favourite areas of the garden and lights around your garden walkways. Our electricians in London will be able to give you a helping hand installing lighting inside and outside your home.

The post Spring home improvement projects appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Your bathroom is one of the most used rooms in your home. It goes through a lot of wear and tear, so it’s likely to develop some problems. You may also decide that it looks outdated compared to the rest of your home.

A bathroom upgrade can make a world of difference in your comfort levels. Here are five reasons you might need a new bathroom layout brought to you by Bathroom Brothers Renovations in Calgary.

1. Bathroom Upgrade

One of the top reasons to do bathroom renovations is if you want to install some new bathroom fixtures or upgrade what you currently own.

For example, you may decide to switch out your bathtub for a more modern shower. If you already own a shower, switching out the shower curtain for a shower door is an easy bathroom upgrade you can do on your own.

Not all of your bathroom upgrades have to be drastic, though. You’ll see improvements in your bathroom experience just by attaching a bidet accessory to your toilet.

2. Repair Damage

Water damage in a bathroom isn’t uncommon. Sources of water damage include toilets, leaky sinks, and excessive steam.

You can manage the damage by fixing your plumbing and repairing cracked or missing caulk. Excessive water damage provides a good opportunity to tear everything down and start over with a completely new bathroom.

3. Increase Property Value

Since the bathroom is one of the most important rooms in a home, it can make or break a future buyer’s decision to purchase. If there’s too much they need to change, they may go with another option.

Updating your bathroom increases the value of your home and has a high return on the overall investment, according to Remodeling Magazine. The most important changes include revamping the shower and installing eco-friendly options.

4. Make it Eco-Friendly and Efficient

Those who try to leave a smaller carbon footprint in their daily lives should look into installing water-efficient fixtures in their bathrooms. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the country could save more than 3 trillion gallons of water every year if everyone installed them.

Low-flow products can reduce energy and water use, and save money on your utility bill.

5. Safety Concerns

If you’re a person who has difficulty moving or positioning yourself in a bathroom, you can upgrade it with fixtures that can help. Grab bars and railings can be installed around the shower, bathtub, and toilet. Add non-slip mats or tiles to prevent falls.

Replace your bathtub with a walk-in shower for easier access and adjustability. You can place a shower seat inside for anyone that needs to sit down while bathing.

Bathroom Contractors in Calgary

A homeowner doesn’t need a big reason, like water damage, to make a bathroom upgrade. Something as simple as the desire for expanded storage is more than enough.

Not sure how to get started? Reach out to your local bathroom experts, Bathroom Brothers. We operate in the Calgary area and offer same-day bathroom renovation services.

For more information on walk in shower projects, visit https://bathroombrothers.ca/walk-in-shower-ideas/

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

Breaking up spaces with open shelves is a great way to add some character and liveliness to any room. It is an effective way to store your books, glasses, and other knick-knacks in a space-saving manner. An open shelf also gives your room an appealing look when full of colorfully arranged objects and displays. Here are three ways in which you can use open shelves:

1. Display decorative items: Punch up any wall in your living room with some whimsical decorations such as colorful vintage books or family photographs. These items will add interest and create a cozy atmosphere for your home without having to purchase expensive pieces of art or furniture.
2. Use some color: A simple shelving unit that is open and exposed is perfect for adding pops of color in your living room. It looks great holding a variety of vases and bowls filled with brightly colored flowers or other plants. You can also use this type of shelving to hold colorful books.
3. Keep things off the floor: If you have hardwood floors, an open shelving unit is the perfect way to keep items such as books and magazines off the floor. It’s a stylish way to keep things tidy in your living room and it will cut down on clutter all over your house. By keeping your living room items off the floor, you will be able to save money on cleaning supplies and will also be able to get more comfortable as you sit on your sofa.

Not every room can accommodate open shelves. If you live in a space with limited floor space, you should use this technique in spaces that have high ceilings; otherwise, it might result in an uncomfortable view of the ceiling when only half of the shelf is visible. In this case, you can use shelves that are closed at the top to create more height without making your living room feel cluttered or narrow.

When deciding on how many shelves to purchase for your apartment or house open shelves can work wonders. You can choose from a variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, you could go with a basic rectangular shape that fits comfortably in your living room. Or you could opt for a more decorative shelf and fill it with pictures and multi-colored books that fit your home’s theme. No matter what type of shelving unit you choose, having an open shelving technique in your living room will provide the perfect solution for displaying items without taking up any floor space in your home.

Contact Handyman Connection

Find a Location or call 800-88-HANDY (42639) to schedule a free estimate for your custom storage needs.

The post <strong>Breaking up Spaces with Open Shelves</strong> appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Recognized for being an outstanding owner-operator; Exemplifying excellence in workforce leadership

BLUE ASH, Ohio (March 1, 2022) — Home repair and improvement company Handyman Connection is pleased to announce that the International Franchise Association (IFA) today named Nate Bruen-O’Brien of Handyman Connection of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, as Franchisee of the Year. Bruen-O’Brien was honored at IFA’s 62nd Annual Convention in San Diego, California, for being an outstanding franchise establishment owner-operator.

“Nate launched his Handyman Connection business in 2016 and has become one of the top franchisees in our system, as well as a respected leader in his community,” said Jeff Wall, President and CEO of Handyman Connection. “While he celebrated 33% sales growth in 2021, the numbers that meant the most to him were doubling his staff and retaining more team members than ever before. Outstanding recruitment and retention are no small feat in this current climate, and we are thrilled to see Nate honored for his commitment to his workforce.”

The Franchisee of the Year Award, sponsored by IFA’s partner Paychex, recognizes leading franchisees who exemplify at least one of IFA’s “Open for Opportunity” core pillars: Community, Workforce, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Veterans.

“Franchisee of the Year Awards are the highest honors presented to individual franchisees,” said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “Local business owners like Nate represent some of the best entrepreneurs in the country, and we are proud to recognize his contributions to his community, employees and all those he serves.”

A large part of Bruen-O’Brien’s ongoing success is the positive culture he has built within his team of 20, which includes craftsmen, sales managers and office staff. Weekly meetings focus on career growth and training, helping employees hone the skills essential to success in today’s workforce. The results have propelled Handyman Connection of Eden Prairie to the top of the system, with Bruen-O’Brien winning Handyman Connection Franchisee of the Year in 2019 and the brand’s coveted Navigator Award for leadership in 2021.

Ranked as the #1 Handyman Company by Qualified Remodeler for the past 11 years, Handyman Connection operates more than 60 locations throughout 25 states and Canada. For more than three decades, the brand has offered homeowners across North America a complete resource for professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Handyman Connection provides a variety of services ranging from traditional home repairs to painting, remodeling and more. Each local office is supported by a team of qualified craftspeople and is always seeking talented professionals to join them in helping customers improve their homes.  

About Handyman Connection

Since 1991, homeowners across North America have been calling on Handyman Connection for our professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Each Handyman Connection franchise is locally owned and operated, backed by the company that helped launch the industry. Our values are steeped in a long-standing dedication to the people we serve, and truly differentiate Handyman Connection as a home repair company. For more information, call 1-800-88-HANDY or visit handymanconnection.com. 

The post HANDYMAN CONNECTION OF EDEN PRAIRIE OWNER NATE BRUEN-O’BRIEN AWARDED FRANCHISEE OF THE YEAR BY INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

From a faster recovery rate in producing hot water to being energy efficient, the benefits of upgrading from an old hot water heater are many. If your current hot water heater is giving you warning signs it needs to be replaced or is creeping up in age, you should consider a new hot water heater.

Richfield Plumbing & Heating in Edmonton offers comprehensive plumbing and heating services, including hot water heater replacements. They share reasons why you should replace your worn-out hot water tank-style heater.

Increased efficiency

If you have an older tank-style hot water heater, chances are it’s not that efficient. Advancements have been made in water heating systems and you could upgrade to a substantially more efficient unit. Richfield Plumbing & Heating can review your water needs and recommend a highly efficient water heater that will be meet your needs. You’ll lower your energy usage and your monthly bill every month too.

If it’s a good fit for your needs, you might want to consider a tankless hot water heater. Tankless hot water heaters provide hot water on-demand. The unit heats water as you use it, so you don’t pay to keep an entire tank full of water heated. Ask your Richfield Plumbing & Heating which style of water heater is best for your home.

No more cold showers

Even though newer hot water heaters take up less space than older ones, their hot water recovery rate is better. Newer hot water heaters can measure how available water is when there is a higher demand. This helps the water heater to replenish the hot water at a faster rate meaning no more fighting over hot water.

Alternatively, a tankless hot water heater upgrade would provide hot water on demand, whenever you needed it. Depending on your household’s consumption, you might need more than one tankless hot water heater to meet demand. This is something a skilled company can help you determine.

Signs it’s time for a new hot water heater

When it’s time to replace your hot water heater, there might be some warning signs. The first thing to consider is the water heater’s age. If it’s 10 years old and counting, it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing the hot water heater is a good idea.

The closer the heater gets to the end of its service life, the more often you’ll notice things going wrong. From banging or rumbling noises caused by sediment build-up to tinted hot water from rust within the tank, these are signs to watch for. Corrosion near the pipes or waiting a long time for the water to heat up, can all mean it’s time for a repair or replacement. If you see water pooling near the bottom of the tank, it’s time for a hot water heater replacement.

Not sure? Get an inspection on your current unit and Richfield Plumbing & Heating will make a suggestion.

Plumbers in Edmonton

Richfield Plumbing & Heating offers a wide range of plumbing and heating services to residential and commercial clientele in Edmonton. Their services include drains and sewer cleaning, gas line installation, hydronic heating, furnaces, hot water heater replacement, poly b replacement, water purifications systems, and plumbing for renovations and construction projects. They also offer plumbing repairs, retrofits, and maintenance.

They’ve been in the business since 1979, and strive to exceed your expectations with any job from start to finish. Richfield Plumbing & Heating is an experienced company you can trust.

Contact them today!

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

Your home’s outdoor space should be a comfortable place for you to spend time in. Whether improving privacy, function, or building living spaces, there are many options available to you. Enlisting an experienced carpenter can help you do all those things.

OJW Custom Fences and Decks in Cochrane has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. They share how their custom construction services can improve your home.

Improve your outdoor living spaces

Warmer weather is on the horizon, so now is the time to get your outdoor space ready for spring. Improving the deck you already have or building a new one will enhance your enjoyment of your property and boost resale value. Building a new fence around your property will also help boost function and value. A new fence will add privacy, security, and curb appeal to your home. With all the options for wooden fence design, you can create a fence that suits your home’s exterior design and your personal taste. In addition, if you have any little ones or pets running around, a fence will ensure they’re safe and secure while spending time in the yard.

Increase value with a garage

Adding a detached garage can add substantial value to your home. A garage creates a space to park your cars, protecting them from the harsh elements. It can also be used as a workshop, additional storage, or even a living area should you choose. Some homeowners decide to add a secondary suite above the garage for rental income or multi-generational living.

There are several different options available to suit your needs and space restrictions. Connect with OJW Custom Fences and Decks to see what type of garage will work on your property. They have the experience and knowledge to help you start planning your value-adding garage addition.

Custom woodwork pieces to suit your needs

Are you looking for a safe way for your cat or other pet to be outside? Pet enclosures are growing in popularity due to the reasonable cost compared to fencing and available custom options. Whether looking for a dog run, or a catio, you can create a custom oasis for your pet so they can enjoy the outdoors safely.

OJW Custom Fences and Decks also offers custom wood furniture. If you want to have built-in benches around your fireplace, new patio furniture, or custom pieces throughout your property, they can help.

Fence Contractors in Cochrane

OJW Custom Fences and Decks have over 20 years of experience under their belt. That knowledge allows them to design an oasis for your property so you can make the most out of your outdoor spaces. So whether you want a new deck for enjoying summer, a new fence to spruce things up, or custom carpentry for pet enclosures or furniture, connect with OJW.

Contact OJW Custom Fences and Decks to start planning your outdoor spaces!

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

Water damage can be costly if left too long. You run the risk of mould or mildew growth, which is bad for your health and expensive to remediate. If you have water damage in the walls or ceiling or suspect you have hidden damage, the repair will require the expertise and skill of a professional drywall contractor.

The Great Wall Inc. in Calgary is a full-service drywall company. They share why you should always hire a professional for drywall water damage repairs:

How to recognize drywall water damage

Some water damage is obvious to spot. For example, you’ll see water stains, peeling paint, swelling or bubbling in the drywall. In severe cases, you might see mould growth. However, sometimes water damage isn’t apparent.

For example, a slow leak from a pipe behind the wall isn’t visible at first. Instead, you might notice a musty smell in the room. Locate the source of the smell and if it’s coming from the wall, contact a professional drywall contractor to inspect it. If the drywall is already discoloured, it means the leak is severe. You’ll need to get a plumber in as soon as possible too.

If you find mould on the drywall, you’ll have to have it tested and removed by a mould removal contractor before getting the drywall repaired or replaced.

Why you should repair or replace water damaged drywall immediately

Water damage is not something you can leave for another time. Drywall water damage is particularly bad because usually, it means that the entire section needs replacing. It also promotes mould growth, often behind the wall where you can’t see it. Mould can be very hazardous to your health and costly to remove. Learn more about the dangers of mould.

In addition, drywall wicks moisture like a sponge, spreading along the wall very quickly. The more it spreads, the more damage it causes. Getting an experienced drywall contractor to remove it and replace it as soon as possible is critical.

Drywall contractors can help

Once you’ve fixed the source of the water problem, connect with a drywall contractor like Great Wall Construction. They can investigate if there is both internal and external damage to the walls or ceiling. Once they remove the old wall, they can try to locate the source of the problem. For example, they might find wet insulation or rotten framing. Any issues, including the problem causing the water or moisture, will need repairing before installing new drywall.

The Great Wall can repair your drywall, so it looks brand new again. They also work with other contractors to help remedy your moisture issues and make recommendations for repairs. Then, they’ll repair or install new drywall and complete the restoration project so it’s ready for you to paint.

Drywall Contractors in Calgary

The Great Wall Inc. offers drywall services to the residential sector for new builds, basement developments, renovations, and restoration projects. They’re a small locally-run business that provides years of experience, quality work, and unmatched service to Edmonton homeowners. If you need a drywall repair, are renovating, or building a new home, trust your drywall to The Great Wall.

Contact them today!

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

Some home improvement projects just aren’t made to be DIY, especially tile installation. Finding a qualified tile installer will guarantee a straight installation that is properly sealed and will last for years to come. Knowing what to look for in a qualified tile contractor is a vital first step.

Moar Tile Inc. in Edmonton offers premium stone and tile installation services. They share what you should look for in a qualified tile flooring contractor and tile installer.

Start with qualifications

Like any contractor, start by looking at the contractor’s qualifications you are considering. Aside from having a business license, insurance, and training, capability also means knowing their materials. They should have extensive knowledge of tile products, grout, and supplies to ensure the job is done right. In addition, this experience and expertise will help you make educated decisions for your home project.

Take the time to talk with your contractor and ask them questions about the project and their experience. For example, qualified contractor will always check if the surface is clean, smooth, and ready to install before laying anything down. A dirty floor is a quick way to ruin perfect tile flooring.

Check reviews and portfolio’s

Take a look at any online photos of past projects to get an idea of the quality of work. Not only can you check that those tile lines are even and straight, but you can also get some inspiration for your renovation. It’s also a chance to ask about the project and what work or considerations were involved.

References from past clients will reveal even more about how the contractor acted on the job. Also, they can share insight on the experience, service, and satisfaction with the results. Moar Tile, for example, has no callbacks from unhappy clients or tiling jobs that didn’t last. That shows they are dedicated to their work and craft and guaranteed quality results.

Range of services

While a tile contractor who is an expert at one type of tiling is great, look for a contractor who has comprehensive experience on all-things-tile. Moar Tile works with everything from ceramic, marble, slate, faux wood, granite, quartzite, and much more. Their services range from backsplash installation, tile flooring, fireplaces, stone veneer, tile wall panels, heated flooring, and more.

The benefit of a range of services provides you with more design options and ensures their knowledge and expertise are extensive. They can help you choose the perfect tile for the job and have the experience to handle the installation. Whether you want tiles for the floor, walls, or the bathroom versus the kitchen, their contractors can help. They’ll ensure you get the right tile for your needs and budget so that every project is done entirely to your satisfaction.

Tile Floor Installer in Edmonton

Moar Tile Inc. prides itself on being your go-to choice for your tile installation needs. Years of experience and education in the tile and construction industry qualify them to work on your project. No matter how big or small the job or how much guidance you need or not, they tailor every service to your exact needs. When you hire Moar Tile, you’ll get the results you were dreaming of with a beautiful, professional, and flawless tile installation.

Contact Moar Tile Inc. today!

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

After the potential damage that winter can bring, spring is an important time to have a roof inspection and take care of repairs or a roof replacement. Spring inspections will find minor issues before they turn into expensive problems. This kind of regular maintenance can help your roof last longer and ensure your home is protected from the elements.

Canam Roofing in Vancouver offers a range of roofing services, including roof repairs, maintenance, and replacements. They also offer gutter services, skylight repairs, and installations. Here are some spring maintenance tips for your roofing system:

Start with an eavestrough inspection

Winter weather and the change of seasons can affect your home’s gutters and eavestroughs. Debris can build up, cause clogs, and impede your roof’s drainage system. If water starts running off your roof and not down the downspout, it can flood around your foundation and begin a score of issues. You should clean out your gutters in the spring and fall to ensure water can flow freely through them and away from your home.

If your gutters are damaged or leak, you should consider a replacement. Canam Roofing offers high-quality eavestrough systems that will ensure your roof is draining water properly. In addition, they offer seamless gutters, which provide low maintenance, fewer leaks, and an improved appearance.

Call in a professional for a roof inspection

A big part of spring maintenance is inspecting your shingles to see what condition they’re in. If any are missing or are starting to curl, this problem needs addressing. A roof inspection will also determine if shingles are balding, loose, missing, or leaving areas of your home vulnerable. Next, things like metal flashing, seams, vents, eavestroughs and other vital components of your roof will be inspected. From there, the roofing contractor will make suggestions for repairs or suggest a replacement to ensure your home is protected.

Trust the professionals

While some issues, like missing shingles or a noticeable leak in the roof, can be detected easily, you should still have a professional conduct an inspection and any needed repairs. An experienced professional will know what to look for, spot issues early, and offer guidance for preventative maintenance. Also, depending on the condition of your roof, your insurance might require a professional inspection if submitting a claim for something like hail damage.

Roofing in Vancouver

Canam Roofing is a trusted source for roof replacements, repairs, and related services in the Vancouver area. They offer only the best roofing products and provide comprehensive, superior roofing services. Whether you need a roof inspection and repairs, a new roof, new gutters or anything roof-related, they can be trusted with your home project.

Reach out to Canam Roofing now.

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

It’s tough to think about landscaping when everything is buried under snow, but spring is just around the corner. If you want to upgrade your landscaping this year, now is the time to start planning.

Terra Nova Landscaping in St. Albert specializes in beautifying residential yards and commercial properties. They share three things you should start thinking about now for your outdoor space:

Installing a patio

With warmer weather on its way, now is the time to start thinking about your outdoor living space. If you want to install a patio, get in touch with Terra Nova Landscaping to begin the design process. Patio installations can take time, and landscapers often book up quickly in the spring. So booking your job now will ensure you get the patio you want early in the season so that you can enjoy it for the entire summer.

Make your life easier with irrigation

Installing an irrigation system will save you time and help your lawn and garden thrive. With a system with automatic timing, you won’t have to worry about watering your lawn and gardens with the hose or moving and turning sprinklers on and off. Installing an irrigation system can be a substantial project, so booking the installation service now will ensure it gets done in time for the growing season. If you require maintenance on a current system, Terra Nova Landscaping can help with that too. Read about the benefits of an irrigation system.

Spring is the time for planting

Even though it might not feel like it at times, spring is on its way. This means you should start thinking about planting trees, bushes or shrubs in your outdoor space. First, make an appointment with Terra Nova to plan out your new trees, shrubs, and plants. They’ll provide guidance on what plants grow well together, trees that will thrive in your yard, and other helpful information. For example, space for roots or planting according to shade and sun exposure are essential to consider. Then, with your planting plan in place, you can order the trees and plants you need for the spring. You’ll beat the rush and will have the service booked and ready for when the ground thaws!

Landscapers in St. Albert

Over twenty years of experience has given Terra Nova Landscaping the knowledge and skills to improve your outdoor space. They provide a quick, professional, and reliable service, ensuring a beautiful yard and your satisfaction. If you want to upgrade your outdoor spaces this spring, connect with Terra Nova today and get a head start!

Transform your space with Terra Nova Landscaping.

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