The process of working with a general contractor

Working with a general contractor can be a breeze if you have the right company on your team and you understand the process. That way, your renovation will be well-planned and executed with fewer hiccups. General contractors like Nest Builder are always professional and do quality work.

Here are some tips for working with general contractors in St. Albert:

What they do

General contractors handle a lot of different roles beyond just managing a team. They negotiate and hire subcontractors, handle obtaining permits, order materials, and ensure things are up to code. They can also help with design and layout ideas and putting together a budget and game plan for the project. Essentially, a general contractor is at the helm of your project. Having an experienced contractor managing the renovation will take away stress and ensures quality results.

Licensed and experienced

Don’t hesitate to look around at different contractors before you make your final decision. A contractor should be fully licensed, insured, and experienced. If you are looking to hire for a specific project, then look for experience in that specific work, like a bathroom or general renovation. Take a look at past projects to get an idea of the type of work they’ve done in the past and the quality. A final process before you hire is to check references from past clients to hear about first-hand experiences. Then you can be sure about finding the right general contractors in Edmonton.

Clear communication

The first thing to do with a general contractor is to establish clear and open communication. Start with discussing your goals and plans for your St. Albert home renovations and what you want to get out of it. Then, decide how you will communicate during the project. Your general contractor will be your main point of contact during the work. Exchanging cell phone numbers will make it easier to provide updates or handle any problems if they arise. Scheduling regular updates will also ensure that you know what’s happening and can provide input as needed.

Put it in writing

Having a paper trail ensures that there’s no miscommunication or trouble during the work. Sometimes mishaps happen, like a delay in materials or unexpected structural issues. If that happens, having a clear paper trail will make it easier to find a solution. Make sure that everything from project and budget details, the timeline, permit fees, and other important details are on a formal, written contract. That way, everyone is always on the same plan and you are protected from a legal standpoint as well. Never hire a contractor that will not provide a written contract.

Meet regularly

While your contractor will send updates about the project, schedule regular times to also visit in person. You may catch mistakes early on or notice a change of play or layout that will work or look better. It also helps, in general, to do a walk-through to visually see how the work is going. At the end of the project, do a final walk-through before your contractor leaves. Look objectively to ensure that everything you want is in place and there are no issues or areas that you aren’t totally pleased with.

Ready to hire the best general contractors? Contact Nest Builder today!

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

All kitchen renovations, whether big or small, will add value and appeal to your home. The difference between sizes, though, is how you go about the renovation. Large kitchens have more room to add features or incorporate additions like islands and breakfast nooks. Small kitchens need a different approach to fully maximize the space.

General contractors in St. Albert like Nest Builder can help you get the most value and function from your kitchen renovation. Here are some tips on renovating a smaller kitchen:

Expand with visuals

If you can’t physically expand a small kitchen, then use some visual tricks to make it feel spacious and open. Incorporating glass in the cabinetry, for example, is one method. Adding glass-fronted doors to the cabinets is an easy way to create that feeling of depth and so more space. Painting the inside of an open cabinet with a bright, eye-catching colour will also help draw the eye upwards and add height to the kitchen.

If you choose an accent light to hang above workspaces, make sure it’s not too dominating. A stylish but smaller light that brightens the space will be more complimentary. Also, consider lighter paint colours to help open up the space.

Be smart about storage

With small kitchen renovations in St. Albert, you only have so much space to work with and only so much storage. It’s easy to over clutter the countertops, but it ruins the visuals of the room. Instead, think ahead and plan clever storage areas and custom cabinets. Pull-out drawers and deep cabinets will make storing and accessing pots and pans much easier. Narrow drawers are ideal for spices, while a recessed nook on the counter can keep the coffee pot out of the way. Mix and match closed cabinets with open shelving to create both visual interests and make the most of any wall space you can. Just don’t add too much, or else the visuals will backfire instead.

Plan your budget

It’s easy to get swept up in buying materials or adding new features, but don’t forget about the cost. In a small kitchen, it’s better to focus on select luxury upgrades and maximize the kitchen space and layout. Things like quality faucets, refinished cabinets or new hardware will go a long way to make the kitchen look stylish. It’ll have all the qualities of a high-end space, but without breaking the budget.

Decide what’s lacking

If you’re doing kitchen renovations in Edmonton, chances are it’s because something about it is lacking. Before starting any work, think about what is missing in your kitchen. Could the layout be improved, or are the cabinets looking worn and faded? Maybe the countertop just isn’t up to snuff anymore, and a new type would make food prep a breeze. Start by writing down anything that comes to mind, then turn that into a priority list. It’ll make deciding what to renovate and how to shape your budget that much easier.

Ready to transform your small kitchen? Contact Nest Builders today! 

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

Basement renovations add a lot of value, but they also require proper planning and consideration. To really maximize the space, you want to have a game plan and take steps to prevent future issues. That’s where Nest Builder in St. Albert can help when it comes the effective design and execution of your basement renovation.

Here are some top considerations:

Start with moisture prevention

One of the main issues with basement renovations in St. Albert is the higher risk of moisture, which risks mould and other damage. A well-planned basement won’t face this problem, so tackle this issue first. To start, seal any cracks with caulking and make sure there is proper ventilation. A basement suite will legally require windows, so that covers some ventilation. If there is already moisture build-up or humidity in the space, invest in a dehumidifier to keep the air clean and clear. That will help prevent any moisture from settling in and causing future damage.

Design with purpose

Basements can be used in many ways and even as a multipurpose space. It’s ideal for a home gym or theatre, it can be a playroom for kids or a full suite for guests or renters. For that reason, it’s important to think about how the space will be used. If you’re planning to sell, consider finishing the space but leaving it open for potential buyers to customize themselves. Otherwise, what sort of basement renovations in Edmonton would add the most value? Would a new bathroom do the trick or a secondary living room space? Maybe a basement suite that can accommodate visiting relatives would make the holidays even better. Or, perhaps your basement renovation needs to include a home office. Think about the why and create a thoughtful design plan for your basement renovation.

Plan the HVAC next

Once you have a purpose in mind for your basement, the next consideration is heating, cooling, and electrical systems. During the winter, a well-insulated basement will stay warm despite the cold. Likewise, in the summer, the space tends to stay cooler. That said, it’s not always the case for all basements. Investing in proper heating and cooling systems will ensure that no matter what, every room in your basement is comfortable.

Plan the electrical installations

As for electrical work, creating a lighting plan and wiring for things like entertainment centres or home offices is key. Plan a lighting design that includes ambient, task, and accent lighting. To brighten up the space, incorporate windows with large wells to bring in natural light. Basements also need an exhaust fan in the bathroom and enough outlets on the walls for convenience and to keep wires out of sight.

Leave it to the professionals

DIY basement renovations are tempting, especially given the cost of a basement renovation. Still, when it comes to quality assurance and following legal codes, general contractors in St. Albert are best. Aside from handling the actual work, they can also help brainstorm designs and ideas for the space. Their eye for detail will guarantee you get the best layout and materials that add value without breaking the budget. The renovation process will be handled much quicker as well with an experienced project manager, so you can enjoy your new space sooner.

Ready for a basement renovation? Contact Nest Builder today!

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

 

Renovating a bathroom is a sure way to add value and function to your home. There are some things you can do with your bathroom renovation that will have a better return on investment than others. If you are ready to renovate, let the general contractors in St. Albert from Nest Builder work with you to design and build your new bathroom.

Here are some tips on adding value to your bathroom renovation:

The figures

Like any renovation, bathroom renovations in St. Albert can be a minor upgrade or a full-scale overhaul. The great thing, too, is that both options will add value and have a great ROI. A mid-range bath remodel can recoup up to 60% of the cost, while a universal design will recoup 58% of the cost, according to Remodel Magazine. However, the thing to keep in mind is that those values will only happen if you renovate wisely. Overhauling a bath for the sake of an overhaul isn’t the same as expanding a small master bathroom into a truly luxurious space. Only the one handled with purpose and a plan will add genuine value and appeal to your home.

Look at cosmetics

Sometimes all your bathroom renovations in Edmonton need is a little visual and cosmetic upgrade. Instead of tearing out plumbing and flooring, look at the state of the paint or tiling. Could a fresh coat and colour of paint help brighten the room and give it a new look? Does the tile grout need refreshing, and could a new style of tile turn that shower into an eye-catching focal point? Even just changing the handles on the cabinets and drawers or adding a new shower curtain or towel racks will go a long way.

Energy-efficient choices

If you do need to replace plumbing or need a new toilet and tub, take the opportunity to be efficient. Low flow faucets and showerheads will use less water, so you save more on monthly water bills. A dual flush toilet gives you options when flushing and can significantly reduce water consumption and monthly bills. An energy-efficient space will be a major point of appeal for any potential buyers. So, you can save more now and then earn more later when selling a market-contender home in the future.

Add sensible luxury

Luxury added with a purpose and intent, though, will also add extra value. For a shower overhaul, for example, a walk-in glass enclosure with wall jets makes sense in a stylish master bathroom. It may be nice for the guest bathroom but doesn’t necessarily add the right value there. Changing the flooring in a bathroom is always a good idea but consider heated tiles for a basement bathroom. It’ll keep the room feeling warm and without having to crank up the temperature and increase heating bills. Nest Builder can help you decide what bathroom features to include or leave out, depending on your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Ready to add value to your bathroom renovation? Contact Nest Builder today!

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

Professional Tips for Replacing Hardware

If you are updating the kitchen or bathroom in your home, hardware makes a very important statement in these rooms. Here are some tips from our professional craftspeople on how to replace hardware in your home. From doorknobs, cabinetry, hinges, and more, there are many things to choose from.

How to Replace Your Hardware: Simplified

1. Remove old hardware.
2. Fill in old holes with putty or caulk, and paint.
3. Pre-drill holes for new hardware.
4. Drill and install new hardware.

Hardware can give a new look and a fresh mini makeover to a small remodeling or be the finishing touch on a big project. Replacing hardware can help if old hardware has broken, is showing its age, or if you are looking for a new style and look. There are handles, knobs, hooks, and more. Each type has different styles and shapes such as handles that can be a pull knob, round, square, ornate, and decorative, and more.

Tools

As you work on replacing old hardware, you will need the following tools:

• New kitchen hardware
• Pencil
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Drill bit
• Wood putty
• Putty knife
• Screws
• Scrap wood
• Damp cloth
• Hardware installation jig or template

Colors

Now that you know how to begin replacing hardware in your house before you begin remodeling, you can take your time picking out what kind of hardware you would like to install. Are you going for one singular look that matches? Or do you want something that catches the eye with a little pop of color? There are many designs and colors from ornate to sleek metallic colors to choose from.

Design, colors, materials, and styles—there are many ways you can go about replacing the hardware in your kitchen, bathroom, and other areas of your home. As with any project, take your time, gather your materials and tools ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to reach out to local craftspeople if you need any help on your project. With these tips, your home improvements will be completed in no time.

Contact Handyman Connection

Call or text Handyman Connection to schedule your free estimate with our craftspeople.

The post Tips for Replacing Hardware appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Are you decorating walls in your house and need to remove a radiator or two, to allow you to paint behind them? Or, maybe you’ve damaged your current radiator and you need to replace it? Whatever the reason may be, the Handy Squad has created this guide to help you remove your radiator safely, without damaging your walls, floor or the radiator itself.

The Handy Squad is a London handyman service with skilled tradespeople who can help you with plumbing, electrics, decorating and more. Our handymen have over a decade of experience and are friendly, polite and fully CRB checked. To learn more about what we do, call our team on 0800-0-12-12-12. Ready to book your handyman? It couldn’t be easier. Just fill out our online booking form and a member of our team will be at your doorstep.

Ready to remove your radiator? The job should take around half an hour, but allocate some extra time, as you won’t want to rush. Here’s the Handy Squad’s guide on how to remove a radiator.

Gather your equipment

Before you can start the removal, you need to make sure you have the correct tools and equipment to complete the job. You should grab a radiator bleed key, an adjustable spanner, a pair of grips, tissue paper, a large bowl and two towels. If possible, use towels that you don’t mind getting dirty, as you will be putting them directly on the floor.

Turn off the radiator

Start by turning off the radiator, isolating it from the rest of your central heating. You can do this by turning the valves fully clockwise.

Protect your floor

Place your two towels underneath your radiator valves and place the bowl on top. The aim is to protect your floor from any water that falls from your radiator.

Drain the water

Using your adjustable spanner and grips, slowly undo the radiator valve nut. Be careful, as the water will begin to leak out. Use the bowl to catch the water and allow it to fully drain.

To get the last little bit of water out, place your bleed key in the valve and turn anti-clockwise. This will open the bleed valve, making it easier for the last drops of water to escape.

Once all the water is out, close the bleed valve by turning the key clockwise.

Remove any remaining water

Move to the other side of the radiator and use your spanner to undo the valve nut.

Then, carefully lift the radiator from the securing brackets and tip any remaining water into the bowl. You may need some help lifting the radiator, so be sure to ask a friend before attempting it yourself, as you don’t want to damage anything. Once all the water is out, place the radiator back on the wall briefly.

Need someone to help you with moving furniture, including moving your radiator? Why not enlist the help of a trusted handyman from the Handy Squad?

Block up the valve inlets and remove the radiator

Using tissue paper, block up the radiator valve inlets to ensure that no water leaks onto your floor.

With the help of a friend, lift the radiator out of the brackets and away from the wall.

Put your radiator back

Once you have finished decorating, or have acquired your new radiator, it’s time to connect it to the wall. Once it’s on the brackets and reconnected to the valves and pipework, make sure that you fully open the valves by turning them clockwise.

Don’t forget to refill your radiator!

We hope that this guide has helped you learn exactly how to remove your radiator. If you still need help, why not get one of our handymen to help?

To learn more about the Handy Squad and what we offer, contact our team today by calling 0800-0-12-12-12. We have carpenters, electricians, plumbers and other tradespeople who are ready and eager to help you with your next project.

 

 

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 remove a radiator appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

When it comes to general maintenance around the house, there are many tasks that you may feel comfortable completing yourself, such as changing a lightbulb or hanging up a shelf. However, when it comes to dealing with live wires and electrical systems, it’s strongly recommended that you leave it to the experts. We know it can be tempting to try and have a go yourself, but you could potentially damage your systems, or worse, put yourself in danger.

If you’re trying to find an electrician near me, you’ve come to the right place. The Handy Squad will send a skilled London electrician right to your doorstep, allowing you to sit back and relax, knowing that the work is being completed to the highest standards. Contact our team today by calling 0800 0-12-12-12 or filling out our online booking form.

Are you still thinking of attempting electrics yourself? Here are some reasons why you should bring in the experts.

It’s not worth the risk

Electricity can be extremely dangerous, especially when you don’t know what you’re doing. Live wires and electrical fires can be fatal; It’s not worth putting your life in danger for the sake of the price of an electrician. While it can still be a dangerous job for even them, electricians have received hours of health and safety training, to ensure that they know exactly how to minimise risk and work safely.

Trained electricians will work fast and to a high standard

While you may be able to figure out how to fix a wire by watching videos and reading tutorials, it’ll likely take you an entire evening, just to do one small task. For trained electricians, this is literally their job. They work with electricity multiple times a week and know every task inside out. Not only will they be able to do the job in a fraction of the time it would take you, but they’re also well-practised, and will get it right, and to the highest standards, on the first try.

Our electricians can help you with a plethora of tasks, including replacements, such as replacing plug sockets and replacing electrical wires, installations, like installing a spur from existing sockets, finding faults and repairs and any other electrical work.

Save money on tools and equipment

Why bother investing your money into tools and equipment that you’re only going to use for a single job? Electricians will arrive at your home with the correct materials and industry-standard tools for the job, meaning you don’t have to worry about trying to find a good voltmeter.

Are you ready to find electricians near me? The Handy Squad’s electricians operate in and around London, so if whether you need an electrician in North London, an Islington electrician, or an electrician Wimbledon, we’ve got you covered. To find out more about our electrician services, speak with our friendly team today on 0800 0-12-12-12, or request a free quote by filling out our booking form.

The post Why hire an electrician? appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Cedar roofing adds a stylish and natural look to your home and comes with great benefits. Many homeowners love the aesthetics, but you should consider all the aspects of cedar roofing. That way, you can make an informed decision and ensure your investment gets you what you want and need.

JJ’s Roofing in Edmonton is a professional roofing company. They share important information to consider about cedar roofing:

Style options

Cedar roofing comes in either shakes or shingles, which offers two different looks. Manufacturers cut cedar shingles thin and even. It provides a clean, simple look. On the other hand, cedar shakes are cut thicker and with rougher edges to create a more rustic look. They also make a three-dimensional pattern, which some consider more visually interesting. Whether it’s the touch of natural wood on a modern home or the look of shakes on a rustic cottage, you can’t go wrong.

Know the maintenance 

A crucial part of owning a cedar roof is knowing how to take proper care of it. Beyond just keeping it clean, it also means knowing when the roof needs to be repaired or replaced. Discolouration with cedar roofing like the colour turning grey is totally normal. As cedar ages, it transitions from that rich golden colour to a light silvery grey. Curling is also a natural part of ageing unless it exposes the roof. If that happens, it risks leaks or damage to the roof itself. Deep cracks of splits in the cedar should also be addressed immediately and repaired before they worsen.

To keep up with it, have an experienced cedar roofer inspect your roof periodically. They can offer advice for repairs and maintenance, and help catch minor issues before they escalate.

Lifespan investment

Depending on the product, cedar roofs are designed to last upwards of 50 years before the roof needs replacing. When investing in cedar roofing, keep in mind that it’s an investment (and look) that will last that long. Taking proper care of the roof will make your investment sound; if not, those repair costs will creep up.

An experienced roofer will ensure the installation is handled correctly from the start, and they can help with any maintenance over the years. In addition, JJ’s Roofing provides a five-year workmanship warranty on their projects. You can also ask about product or manufacturer warranties on top of that.

Roofers in Edmonton

JJ’s Roofing provides honest, quality work at every step of a project from start to finish. As a second-generation roofing company, they are committed to honest and high-quality work. Their team can help with roofing repairs, re-roofing, siding and soffits, and more. Any service you need, their company is ready to help.

Contact JJ’s Roofing today!

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

It can be challenging to choose a type of countertop when upgrading your home. Several options are available, but granite, marble, and quartz are typically the most popular choices. Being informed about each type of countertop will help you decide what is best for your design, lifestyle, and personal taste.

Right Choice Stones in Surrey shares information on three types of stone countertops for you to consider:

Granite

Granite is one of the top options when it comes to countertops. However, the cost can range depending on several factors, such as the type of countertop you’re looking for. There are three types: slabs, which is one solid piece, modular, which are sectional pieces, and tiles. Slabs are typically the most expensive option as they’re one solid piece of stone, but they can be cut to match your counter’s specifications. With a slab, you can choose what section of the slab you want if you prefer the natural colouring or grain of one part of the slab over the other.

A bonus to granite is that it’s very hard and therefore very scratch resistant. You should still use a cutting board, as knives directly on the counter could scratch it! Granite is also resistant to heat, easy to clean, and looks fantastic. Keep in mind that granite needs to be sealed to protect it from stains, and this needs to happen periodically. Learn how to seal a granite countertop.

Marble

Marble countertops will give your kitchen the look of elegance and luxury. The natural veining in marble provides a unique look. When polished, it will reflect the light in the room, giving an eye-catching shine! Marble is more expensive than the other options and requires more maintenance. It can chip if you’re not careful and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. Spills like red wine or tomato sauce should be wiped up immediately to prevent staining as well. While it requires some care, marble is a valuable and luxurious choice for your countertops.

Quartz

Engineered quartz countertops have increased in popularity over the years. It is aesthetically versatile, is available in a wide range of styles, patterns and colours. You can get quartz countertops that mimic the look of other stones like marble and granite. These countertops are more scratch-resistant than granite or marble, so a good option if that’s a concern. Maintenance on quartz is also much easier than granite and marble as minor scratches can be sanded out. This countertop option has a longer life compared to others, and it gives homeowners consistently high resale values.

Countertops in Surrey

Right Choice Stones can help you when renovating your home. They can educate you on their stone products, so you can make the best choice for your project. They are committed to quality products, professional installation, and helpful, friendly customer service. If you’re looking for stone countertops, you’ll be in good hands with Right Choice Stones.

Contact Right Choice Stones today.

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

There are many ways to customize your home protection, from smart home security and alarm monitoring to damage prevention and life safety. Knowing all of your options will ensure you choose the best features for your home.

Telsco Security Systems in Edmonton is a local, professional home security and automation system company. They have been serving Edmonton and the area since 1970, and in this blog they share some security system options to consider in your home:

Home security and monitoring

A complete home security system involves several parts that work together to keep your home safe and secure. It can include a variety of strategically placed devices, such as door and motion sensors or glass break detectors. If you forget to set the alarm, you can do it remotely through a smartphone app, ensuring that your home is always protected. Indoor lifestyle cameras let you watch things inside your home and get video alerts on specific activities. You can even authorize monitoring centre operators to access live video to assist with emergency dispatch in the case of an alarm. If you have pets who are home alone or kids, it’s a great way to ensure they are safe.

Damage prevention

Security systems can also protect against more than just intruders; they can also protect your home from damage and live threatening events. For example, a burst pipe or carbon monoxide leak can be disastrous, especially when it’s not caught early enough. An environmental alarm will alert you of that risk as soon as it detects it. The system can detect floods, leaks, warn against freezing temperatures, fires, and carbon monoxide. That way, you can leave your home or sleep peacefully at night without worry.

Medical alert system

Whether you want to age safely in place or keep an eye on elderly loved ones, a medical alert system provides safety and assurance. The system can do numerous things like automating heating, setting up alerts if the door is unlocked at night and other functions that can give insight into the health and wellness of your loved one. The system is easily customizable to your needs or a family member. Even if you can’t always be there in person, a virtual check-in will provide the same peace of mind. Installing automation devices for lock automation or thermostat control is a great way to make ageing-in-place easier and convenient.

Home Security in Edmonton

Telsco Security Systems prides itself on offering custom systems and solutions for absolute peace of mind. They can provide whole-home systems or specific features that suit your needs and security goals. A professional from their team will visit your home to assess the property and advise on the best course of action. Then, they’ll do the installation to ensure top quality and safety. With their team and system in your home, you can rest easy, always knowing your home and family are safe.

Contact Telsco Security Systems today!

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