Things to consider when choosing a kitchen countertop

The countertop in your kitchen will act as a focal point for the entire room, so it is worth putting some extra thought into! It’s essential to choose a kitchen countertop that suits your taste for style and design, but looks aren’t the only consideration. Cost, durability, and maintenance requirements are all things to consider.

LD&A is a design and renovation company that specializes in major renovations in Calgary. They’ve provided some tips for choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen renovation.

Choose a countertop that matches your lifestyle

If you’re an avid at-home chef or have kids helping in the kitchen, you’ll want a countertop material that can stand up to heavy use. Engineered quartz is a great choice as it’s scratch, stain, and heat resistant. (*You’ll still want to use a trivet to protect your quartz from excessive heat, though). Quartz is virtually non-porous, so the added resistance to bacteria is a welcome feature with this versatile surface. When sealed properly, granite countertops are heat, stain, and scratch-resistant as well. It would be best if you still used a cutting board for all surfaces, but you won’t damage your countertop with hot pots and pans if you install granite.

For a nearly indestructible countertop, consider concrete. Concrete countertops come in a range of styles and finishes and are gaining popularity. If you think you’ll be hard on your countertops, avoid marble, soapstone, and limestone countertops. While they look fantastic, these natural stones are softer and can easily scratch or chip.

How much maintenance are you willing to put into your countertop?

Depending on the material you choose, a certain level of maintenance is required to keep the countertop looking great. Natural stone countertops like granite and marble require periodic sealing to maintain scratch and stain resistance. Marble, in particular, requires special care due to the softness of the stone.

Butcher block countertops might need to be refinished and must be oiled frequently to seal the surface. Learn how to maintain butcher block countertops.

Engineered quartz is virtually maintenance-free and doesn’t require sealing to maintain scratch and stain resistance. Solid surface countertops such as DuPont Corian or Samsung Staron are also low maintenance, and you can easily buff out scratches. Laminate countertops only require cleaning with soap and water but can scratch more easily.

What is your budget?

Finding a balance between lifestyle, maintenance, aesthetics and your budget is essential. An experienced Calgary renovation company can provide you with multiple options and walk through your priorities to achieve the look, price, and functionality that you are looking for in a countertop.

Engineered quartz can accommodate a range of budgets, but will often fall on the higher end. There are many options including Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, Hanstone as well as others. Porcelain and natural stone are beautiful options that are also on the mid-higher end of the budget scale.

For a mid-range countertop, consider solid surface. This countertop material comes in a range of colours and designs, is seamless, low maintenance, and durable. While not heat resistant, solid surface countertops can meet a mid-range budget.

The most affordable countertop option is laminate. It’s come a long way over the years and can mimic the look of stone or wood countertops. However, laminate is not heat or scratch-resistant. Laminate can be a budget-friendly, versatile solution for a laundry, craft, or utility room.

Once you’ve determined your main practical priorities, you can have some fun exploring the wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes available for your new countertops. If you’re renovating, start planning with the Calgary interior design team at LD&A.

Contact them here!

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

Window coverings play a significant role in style and design, but they also need to perform a particular function. While aesthetics are important, each room might need a window covering with a slightly different function.

LD&A are interior designers in Calgary that can help you choose the right window coverings for your home. They share some things to consider when choosing window treatments for each room.

Does it need to be energy efficient?

Windows are a big culprit for energy loss in the home. Energy-efficient windows can make a noticeable difference in letting heat in and out of your home. Pair that with thermal window coverings, and you can significantly improve efficiency. Types of window coverings that can help improve thermal performance include cellular shades, heavy fabric drapery, and shutters.

Cellular shades are a top choice for energy efficiency. They’re designed with hexagonal shapes within the shade that trap air and act as insulation. If you have a room with large windows that allow heat to transfer, talk to LD&A about your options for energy-efficient window coverings.

Do you need to control the natural light?

Depending on the direction your windows face, controlling natural light might be a priority. South-facing windows receive direct sunlight. Sunlight can be great a lot of the time, but UV can cause damage to furniture and flooring over time. There are window coverings designed to help block the glaring sun while still allowing some natural light to come in.

Do you need privacy?

Depending on your neighbourhood, you might need window coverings that provide more privacy. If you’re worried that neighbours and passersby can see right into your home, the right window covering can help. You don’t want the blinds shut 100% of the time. Calgary interior designers can show you options that allow natural light and views while still providing the privacy you want.

Do you want automated or manual?

Adjust automated shades with a touch of a button. You can also program your window coverings to raise or lower at certain times of the day. This automation allows privacy, energy-efficiency, and light control when you need it in each room. If this convenience is important to you or essential for a specific room, automated window coverings are an excellent investment.

What is the style of the room?

Finally, let’s talk about aesthetics! Window coverings in Calgary play a major role in the design and style of your home’s interior. They can enhance or compliment finishings and décor by adding colour, depth, and texture. Choose from draperies, blinds, shades, window film, or a combination of these options to beautifully finish off your space. Plus, all of these options can increase energy-efficiency, sound control, privacy, and light control.

To learn more or to view your window covering options, contact LD &A today!

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

Spring has arrived and it’s time to start thinking about property upkeep. From lawn care and landscaping to concrete maintenance, this is the perfect time to clean up your property.

Blackstone Contracting has recently expanded into residential property maintenance while still offering commercial services. This Winnipeg-based company can help get your property back to its best condition so you can enjoy it this summer. Here are a few things to consider:

Lawn Care

After being trapped under snow for months, your lawn needs a little TLC to get it ready for summer. Rake away debris, dethatch, and aerate if required, and get a head start on pest and weed control. Early spring is a great time to do this as it prepares your lawn for the growing season. Lawn spring clean-up can be a daunting task with a long list of things to take care of, but hiring a property maintenance company will help.

Landscaping

It’s time to do those big jobs like excavating or re-grading your property or any landscape installations. If your property isn’t graded properly, you could have issues with flooding and water leaking into your home.

Repairing or installing retaining walls, plant beds, concrete patios, and pathways will make your yard a liveable and enjoyable space. Plus, by thinking of these jobs early, you’ll have more time to enjoy your property this summer. Professional landscaping will boost curb appeal and improve your property value.

Driveway and walkway maintenance

Deal with the cracks or deterioration on your exterior concrete. It will improve curb appeal and home value. Cracked and damaged concrete will only get worse with every freeze-thaw cycle. Make this spring the year you invest in concrete repairs. In some cases, concrete repairs won’t be possible and new concrete will need to be installed. Taking care of your driveway, walkways, patios, and concrete pads will ensure they last for years to come.

Landscapers in Winnipeg

Blackstone Contracting has years of commercial property maintenance experience and now offers the same trusted experience to residential properties. Count on quality workmanship when trusting them with lawn care, landscaping, and driveway and sidewalk maintenance. Now is the time to get your property ready for spring and summer.

To get started on your property maintenance, contact Blackstone Contracting today!

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

Spring has finally sprung in the UK, blessing us with longer daylight hours and warmer weather. It’s a season of new beginnings and growth – and a great time for us to start preparing our homes for summer.

Paint interior walls

As spring approaches, we see nature coming back to life. Trees blossom, flowers bloom and dull leaves turn bright orange. All this change is likely to leave you itching to brighten up your home with a pop of colour! Repainting your interior walls is a straightforward way to renovate your home, and leaves plenty of room for creativity.

Don’t want to get your hands dirty? Why not call The Handy Squad? Our team of London Decorators can do the job quickly and efficiently, allowing you and your family to relax, knowing the job’s in good hands.

Reseal your windows and doors

Since caulking can crack and shrink during the colder months, spring is the best time to repair the seal on your doors and windows. Also, properly sealed windows and doors can hold cool air in during the summer months, saving you money on air conditioning!

Repave your driveway

Your front garden is the first aspect of your house that any guests or passers-by see – so why not make a good first impression? Over the winter months, ice, mud and tire rust can wear down your patio, so spring is the perfect time to restore it.

Whether it needs a fresh coat of patio sealer or a brand-new look, our London handyman services are here to help. At the Handy Squad, we can help with anything from odd jobs, to plumbing and electrics. Request a free quote by filling our online booking form.

Make use of garden space

It’s that time of year where we all experience a sudden urge to spend time in our gardens, making the most out of the beautiful weather. Luckily for you, there are hundreds of ways to improve your outdoor space without spending a fortune.

You should start with some basic maintenance; pull out any weeds that are poking through the soil and remove fallen leaves and twigs. Next, mow your lawn and trim any surrounding bushes. Once you’ve taken care of the essentials, you can start to bring your garden to life with vibrant flowers, wind chimes or even a birdbath.

It’s also a good idea to assess your outdoor space for any damage such as broken fences, peeling paintwork, or a run-down shed. Fixing these problems would immediately improve the appearance and feel of your garden.

Need help putting up a new fence or repainting a shed? Why not call in the Handy Squad? Our expert team of London Carpenters will come fully prepared with all the necessary tools, equipment and materials needed to help you achieve your perfect garden. Our team can also tile walls, repaint kitchen cabinets as well as completing bigger projects like bathroom fitting. Request a free quote by filling our online booking form.

The post Get your home ready for spring appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Commercial roof care is important to both protect your investment and maintain positive appearances. Regular maintenance and annual inspection help catch and prevent problems from becoming major and costly. When it comes to that care, having the right company to help is just as important. Roofing companies like ROOFKING can help care for your roof, whether it’s flat or sloped. They also share what roof maintenance to follow for additional protection.

Fix leaks early

Even a small leak can quickly become a major problem with costly water damage. With commercial roofing, it can even risk electrical damage, roof collapse, or get into the air ducts. Instead of a small quick fix, the issue becomes extensive and requires even more labour. If you notice signs of a leak, or an inspection finds a damaged section, get the repairs done immediately. It’ll protect your building and save more long-term.

Get bi-annual roof inspections

Residential homes are not the only ones that benefit from professional, annual roof inspections. Commercial roofs are just as at risk of the same wear and damage as any other roof. Taking the time to get regular inspections can help catch and repair any problems early. Commercial buildings may also benefit more from bi-annual inspections for twice the security. It’s also worthwhile getting the flat roofing looked at after any major storms. Strong winds or hail can also cause damage that shouldn’t be left unrepaired.

Keep the roof clean

Leaves and debris trapped on a flat roof can not only lower curb appeal; this can also cause damage. As moisture builds up beneath the debris, it can lead to algae or mould growth. If it does, it quickly causes roof deterioration and a shorter lifespan. Clearing the debris will help prevent that from happening, but never DIY the work. Walking on commercial roofing or using a power cleaner can easily risk causing further and possibly more extensive damage. Instead, hire a professional company and leave the cleaning to them.

Inspect and update the roof system

Exterior roof care is important, but so is the interior care of your roof. Proper ventilation and insulation play a role in extending the lifespan of the roof. Without them, there is excess heat transfer in and out of the roof, which then speeds up the roof’s deterioration. Getting a professional roof inspection will help find areas that need to be updated or improved. If your commercial building has a sloped roof, proper sloped roofing care will also help save on monthly bills by making your commercial building even more energy efficient.

Need commercial roofing maintenance? Contact ROOFKING and leave it to them!

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

Have you used your garage and shed to dump unwanted clutter? Now spring has arrived, it’s time to Marie Kondo your storage. Get ready for the warmer weather with our simple organisation tips for your garage and shed.

Declutter

The first step to organising should always be committing to a de-clutter. Make two piles on the lawn of things to keep and things to throw away. Letting go of items that are old or you don’t use is the best way to free up space. If there’s anything in good condition, donate to a charity shop or pop it online to sell for some extra pennies.

Clean floors

Once the shed or garage is empty, you can clean the space. For the floor, a stiff bristle brush is perfect as it can grab stones, dried mud and other hard debris. Finish off by vacuuming the remaining dust. Putting down rubber runner mats is a great way to make cleaning outhouse floors easy. Simply whip them out for a quick vacuum when needed.

Sort out shelving

Spruce up rusted metal or weathered wooden shelves by sanding them down. Then, to make your clean last longer, touch them up with a fresh coat of rust-resistant paint or wood varnish.

Get organised

The key to organising your shed is shelving. Utilise all types such as wall, ceiling or free-standing shelves to make the most of the space. You can also put hooks on the wall for quick access to garden hand tools. For larger tools, a wall-hanging tool rack will help free up some floor space. If you need help putting up wall-mounted hooks and shelving, hire a handyman in London, The Handy Squad.

To organise smaller bits, you can utilise plenty of garden items. Old paint pots, buckets or plant pots can all be used as storage. Pop anything from paintbrushes, shears or bulbs inside.

Make rummaging through your shed a breeze by sorting everything by groups. Have dedicated spaces for painting, gardening and DIY tools. Always make sure to store sharp and harmful tools out of children’s reach.

Next, organise by how frequently you use items. Stuff you use regularly like a bike or lawnmower need to be accessible, at the front. Keep anything you hardly use towards the back. You can conveniently grab what you need, without making a mess.

Decorate

Now the organising is done, why not finish the job by revamping the exterior. A lick of paint or some outdoor lighting will make your shed feel like a whole new place. The Handy Squad can help you out with all your decorating needs.

These organisation tips were brought to you by London Cleaners, TidyChoice, an online platform for domestic cleaning services. TidyChoice provides one-off, regular cleaning and housekeeping services. Head to their blog for more great organisation tips.

The post How to organise your garage and shed appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Concrete installations, from driveways, curbs, to foundations, require concrete forming. A concrete form is a temporary or permanent mold used to hold poured concrete in place while it sets. With concrete forming, the concrete fills the void and becomes that desired shape. This versatility is why concrete is one of the most commonly used building materials out there.

Pedron Contracting Ltd. in Coquitlam serves Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, offering concrete installation services. They share more about concrete forming.

Why is concrete forming necessary?

You can’t install concrete with a concrete form. A mold needs to be in place to ensure the concrete fills the space and creates the final shape. Without forming, manipulating the concrete into your design will be impossible. It will slow out of the designated area, leak out everywhere, and make a huge mess. You need a concrete forming system to hold that semi-solid concrete in place until it can set properly.

Concrete forming allows homeowners to be creative

Concrete forming systems allow you to be more creative when it comes to concrete installation around your home. Pedron Contracting offers a range of concrete forming systems from pre-engineered to traditional stick forming. Homeowners can use these systems for retaining walls, driveways, patios, walkways, steps, or other concrete landscaping features on your property.

Because you can create a form in nearly any shape, you can let your imagination soar when designing your concrete. Check out these creative concrete patio ideas. The team at Pedron Contracting can help by explaining how their equipment works. They can also make suggestions for decorative effects for your concrete project.

Experience and knowledge matters when concrete forming

The proper installation of concrete forms is essential to achieving a strong, durable, and attractive finished product. Professional concrete forming can ensure strength and visual appeal. The end product will have clean edges, smooth surfaces, and long-lasting.

While there are DIY forming kits available at hardware stores, inexperienced concrete forming can have disastrous results. The form has to be built and installed correctly, and so does the concrete pouring and finishing. For large-scale projects, it is imperative to hire a professional like Pedron Contracting.

Pedron Contracting can assist with all project sizes

Pedron Contracting can offer a solution for your project, no matter how big or small. You might be a homeowner wanting to enhance your landscape and curb appeal. Or a contractor requiring concrete forming for a new building. You might even be a city planner building a new bridge. No matter what your project is, they have a solution.

Concrete Contractors in Vancouver

Pedron Contracting takes pride in its work. They strive to please customers with their commitment to safety, ethics, and quality work. If you’re looking for a professional concrete installation for your home or business, you can trust the professional concrete contractors at Pedron Contracting.

Contact them for your project today!

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

Eavestroughs play an essential role in keeping your house and property in good condition. Keeping them clean and in good working order will ensure they’re functioning correctly and protecting your home. You should clean out your gutters in the spring and fall each year.

Archer Residential Services in Edmonton offers eavestrough cleaning, window washing, and pressure washing services. They share three important reasons to focus on eavestrough maintenance.

They are a vital component of your home’s drainage system

Eavestroughs re-route water away from your home. Water from rain and melting snow runs down your roof and into the gutter. Then the water is routed away from the house through the downspout.

Even in the winter, meltwater is coming down the roof sporadically. Without eavestroughs, that water would spill over and pool around your home and yard. Standing water increases the chances of penetration into your home’s foundation or through basement windows.

Without proper drainage, that water can also damage your yard through flooding and soil erosion. Your eavestroughs must be clean and clear of leaves, pine needles, dirt, and other debris so the water can flow freely.

Eavestroughs protect your home’s foundation

As mentioned, water will spill over your roof overhangs and pool around the house without properly working gutters. Because of our climate in Edmonton, this can cause some issues. As the water gets into the cracks in your foundation’s concrete, it can freeze and thaw throughout the winter. The constant freezing and thawing will cause significant damage to that concrete. If it goes on too long, it can even impede the structural integrity of your home.

Foundation repair is costly. Save yourself the expense and the stress by committing to eavestrough maintenance. Hiring a company like Archer Residential Services will clean your eavestroughs thoroughly and ensure they’re in good working order. Learn more about how to clean gutters.

Eavestroughs can help protect your roof

Roofing is tough, but if the water is sitting on it too long, it can start to cause damage. Eavestroughs move water away from your roof. Removing the water allows your roof the chance to dry out in the sun. While water will naturally flow down a sloped roof, you want to give it the best opportunity to be as dry as possible for as long as possible.

Eavestroughs in Edmonton

Archer Residential Services in Edmonton offers a range of home services. Contact them for eavestrough cleaning, power washing, window washing, tree removal, pruning, garden rototilling, and other odd jobs around the home. They are committed to safety, using the best tools and materials, and keeping your home in its best condition.

Get ready for your home’s exterior spring cleaning.

Call Archer Residential Services today!

 

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

Upgrading your home’s exterior will improve energy-efficiency, curb appeal, and resale value. Exterior renovations have some of the best returns on investment compared to other home improvements. You can view this cost vs. value report to see which renovations have the best ROI. Several exterior upgrades all see high returns at resale.

While exterior renovations are a wise investment, choosing the right contractor to do the job is essential. Dakota Exteriors and Roofing in Winnipeg is an experienced and reputable exterior renovation company. They share why they’re the best choice for your home improvements.

Dakota Exteriors can help you design your exterior to boost curb appeal

Part of why an exterior renovation is so valuable is because it improves curb appeal. How your home looks on the outside will have a significant impact on its resale value. Looks can also impact marketability when you choose to sell. Curb appeal is essential is because first impressions matter when it comes to selling a home. If a buyer isn’t initially attracted to your home’s exterior, they won’t bother investigating the rest of it.

Plus, an updated exterior shows buyers that the owner cares about maintaining the home. They can expect this commitment to maintenance to extend to other areas of the house and property. Pride in ownership and a dedication to maintenance is an attractive selling point for buyers.

Dakota Exteriors and Roofing have been in the business for a long time. They can help you choose materials, colours, and exterior design elements that will give your home the best facelift possible. Dakota Exteriors know what looks excellent and what is in style. They also know which products bring the highest return on investment.

Dakota Exteriors is committed to quality installation to protect your home

Your home’s siding, roofing, windows, and doors are the first line of defense against the harsh natural elements. Wind, rain, snow, ice, and the freeze and thaw cycles can do a number on a home’s exterior. Without proper installation of your roof, siding, eavestrough system, and other aspects, your home could be susceptible to water and other types of damage.

Even the best products, when installed improperly, will not perform as they should. Roofing can deteriorate, moisture can penetrate the siding, and windows can leak. Hire Dakota Exteriors and Roofing and know they’ll do the job properly without any worry.

Dakota Exteriors can help improve energy-efficiency

With experience in all exterior renovation products, the Dakota Exteriors’ professionals can make suggestions on energy-efficient upgrades. Exterior insulation, new windows and doors, energy-efficient siding, and roofing products can all improve efficiency.

Higher thermal performance of your home’s exterior components reduces energy transfer in and out of your home. You’ll improve home comfort by keeping out the cold in the winter and keeping out the heat in the summer. Your HVAC system will experience less strain, and you’ll see a decrease in your monthly energy bills.

Exterior Renovations in Winnipeg

Dakota Exteriors and Roofing is an experienced and knowledgeable exterior renovations company serving Winnipeg and surrounding areas. They offer complete exterior renovation services. Contact them for siding, roofing, windows, doors, soffit, fascia, eavestroughs, decks, and fencing.

Call or email Dakota Exteriors and Roofing today!

 

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

If your home has suffered fire or flood damage, it will need major restoration services. Depending on the severity of the damage, and if there is mould or asbestos present, you might need a full home renovation.  Or, if you’re having a portion of your home restored, you might consider renovating other parts of your home to complete the look and give you a fresh start.

Fresh Start Restoration in Burnaby shares more: 

Give your home a fresh start with a full renovation

Whether you’ve suffered widespread damage or just want a change, Fresh Start Restoration is a full-service home renovation company. They offer a range of renovation services including kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels, basement development, main floor renovations, and upgrades around the home. If you want to completely gut your home and redo the interior, or give it an exterior facelift to boost curb appeal, Fresh Start Restoration can help.

Home repairs and upgrades

If you’re not in the market for a full home renovation, consider hiring Fresh Start Restoration for your minor upgrades and home repair projects. They specialize in all aspects of home reconstruction, repairs, and restoration and can take on any job big or small. With a focus on customer care, professionalism, and quality work, you’ll have peace of mind throughout the entire repair process.

Recovering and renovating your home after a disaster

Fresh Start Restoration specializes in home restoration. Whether you need flood restoration, fire restoration, mould remediation, or another home repair service, they can help.

New insulation and drywall

If water gets into the drywall and insulation, walls will have to be ripped out and replaced. If left unkempt, there could be brown staining left on the walls. It could also easily promote mildew and mould growth which is hazardous to your health. Insulation won’t properly function when wet, and drywall may begin to crack or wrinkle. Fresh Start Restoration will be able to safely remove the insulation and drywall and replace them with new materials. They also offer professional mould and absestos remediation services, should you require that. After that, they’ll have the walls painted with new trim installed.  

New flooring

Floors need to be replaced after a flood or fire. When flooring becomes saturated with water, it’s likely to start warping. The sides may peel up, or textiles may bend. Water may also have seeped down into the subflooring too. In the case of a fire, the flooring could be heavily damaged by both fire and smoke. It will have to be replaced. 

Similarly in the basement, concrete flooring may be subject to cracking if exposed to water. If the concrete cracks, not only will the floor be unlevel, but it can cause problems for the remainder of your home. The concrete in your basement is the foundation of your home. A general contractor can assess, dig up, and fix your concrete flooring. 

Electrical repairs and replacements

Lots of electrical is near the base of your home where floods usually occur, including electrical outlets and wiring inside the walls. Electrical, when wet, can potentially short-circuit. This can lead to a major fire hazard or can fry your home’s system. It’s a good idea to check on your breaker. Turn off the power to places where your electrical system may have serious water damage, and keep your home’s system intact. Make sure a licensed electrician inspects the situation. They will recommend repairs and in many cases, parts of your electrical system will need to be replaced. 

General Contractors in Burnaby

Fresh Start Restoration can help homeowners with any home renovation and restoration project you might need. They serve the Lower Mainland and Vancouver area, providing comprehensive services to give your home a fresh start. Whether you need restoration, or just want to upgrade your home with a renovation, Fresh Start can help.  

 Contact Fresh Start Restoration today!

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