Sunroom vs. patio cover: differences and what to consider 

A screen room and a sunroom may seem like the same thing from a basic design point of view, but there are differences. Each offers its own unique benefits and provides extra outdoor square footage in its own way. Understanding those other key differences will make it easier to pick the right addition.

Canadian Factory Direct Sunrooms in Winnipeg is a professional sunroom company. They share the differences between sunrooms and patio covers and what to consider:

Sunroom

A sunroom is like a home addition. A new, enclosed room is attached to your home and provides extra square footage. It expands your indoor living space. Unlike a room extension, the walls in a sunroom are covered with glass. Depending on the type of sunroom you build, it can then be designed and used in a variety of ways. A-frame sunrooms, for example, are a great way to maximize sunlight in the new space. The area can be used as a new living room, breakfast space, or even a greenhouse. If you want to enjoy the outdoors year-round, then an insulated four-season sunroom will do just that. Heating can be connected to the addition so it can be enjoyed even in the winter.

Screen room or patio cover

Similar in design, a screen room or patio cover is also attached to the home, but instead of glass walls, it is covered in a fine mesh. This welcomes natural airflow throughout the space and even brings a closer connection to the outdoors. Screen rooms also keep those pesky mosquitos out! Screen rooms also aren’t limited to a sunroom design and are instead installed over decks, porches, or patios. The main appeal of a screen room is that you can still enjoy being outdoors, without the annoyance of any bugs, rain, or too much heat. Dark screens can also help improve privacy in your backyard, so you can see out, but others can’t easily see in.

Which to choose?

The biggest difference between a screen room and a sunroom is how you plan to use the new space. Because a screen room has mesh walls, it limits the ways to use the room. In the prairies, a screen room can’t be used in the winter as a living space. A sunroom addition can be insulated for year-round use, and windows can be installed to add ventilation. If you plan to use the space as a breakfast nook or second living room, then a sunroom is a great choice. You can enjoy the space no matter the weather, but it’s not dependent on year-round use.

Cost-wise, screen rooms are a cost-effective way to get the benefits of a sunroom without building from scratch. Simple reoutfitting an existing deck or porch will give your home the same benefits. There’s no right or wrong choice, so pick what design and price work best for your needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Sunrooms in Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Calgary

Canadian Factory Direct Sunrooms proudly provides year-round, customizable solutions for any project. Whether you want an outdoor space to enjoy in winter, a new living room, or just extra space, they can help. With quality products, service, and years of experience, you can put your trust and home in their professional hands.

Contact Canadian Factory Direct Sunrooms today!

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

Starting a new construction project is an adventure. If you are just starting out in the construction business or you’re a seasoned real estate pro, reviewing the fundamentals of preparation for Edmonton commercial renovations is crucial.

Laying the Groundwork Before You Break Ground on New Builds

Proper planning on a project can help determine your success. Here are 7 ways to prepare for commercial new builds.

1. Determine the Location of Your Build

You may already have an idea of where you want your new build will be, but there are several factors to take into consideration. The population influx and traffic, size of the build relative to allotted space, and local competition are all imperative things to think about.

2. Get Permits

After determining the location, you will need to attain the proper permits you need in order to start work on your project. Each city has its own set of rules and regulations for commercial property, so you will need to check with the local Bureau of Development Services for the application process and which permits are needed.

3. Choose Your Contractors

The success of your project hinges on choosing the best contractors to help with your new builds. Consider the needs of your project and looks for contractors with experience, have good references and portfolios, and have a history of working well with outside companies.

Bring in other professional members to add to your team. Outside workers like engineers and architects can help you make decisions on topics in which you may not be as savvy.

4. Plan Your Itinerary

Set progress goals before construction begins to give yourself an idea of how the project is going to go. It’s always a good idea to be strict on hitting the goals you establish, as setbacks can have a domino effect that will stack construction delays. Of course, unexpected delays can (and usually will) occur, but staying as close to your timetable as possible can make your new build successful.

5. Plan Your Budget

Meet with a financial advisor to discuss your budget before beginning on your construction site. Get quotes from your contactors or outside team members so you can have a ballpark idea of what labor will cost as well as an overview of the financing of the project itself. Once you have a budget calculated, you can move forward with the new build.

6. Communicate With Workers

Because of COVID-19, construction may have to deal with unexpected shutdowns for unknown periods of time. Keeping communication lines open and speaking with workers during these times increases the likelihood that the workers will return if the shutdown is longer than expected. Keep the workers engaged by including them in discussions or meetings about the project, even if physical work is halted.

7. Forecast An Increase in Work

With a COVID-19 vaccine approved and on the horizon, expect the construction industry to be on the rise. Because of the number of construction projects being suspended during the pandemic, anticipate them to get the green light once the world returns to normalcy.

Using the Blueprint of Success

Planning is the key to success for new builds. Use these tips while planning your strategy, and you can kick off construction sooner than later. For more tips for your construction needs and commercial buildings, check out our blog! Read >>>  Canadian construction trends to watch in 2021

Do You Need a Commercial Renovation Contractor for Your Business?

Being a business owner in today’s world means doing everything you can to gain a competitive edge. Use your business space to send the right message to your customers or clients. But don’t do it without a qualified commercial renovation contractor.

We offer a myriad of services, from new builds to renovations. Contact Invicta Construction today to get a quote on your commercial renovation project.

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

Concrete is a common material used outdoors for both function and aesthetics. If you’re looking to renovate our exterior and landscaping and incorporate concrete, 1 OAK Concrete in Edmonton can help. They have the expertise necessary to do many concrete projects. Here are some concrete installations you can consider to help boost function and curb appeal: 

A new driveway

If you have a cracked, uneven driveway, concrete contractors can fix it for you. A fresh concrete pour can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal. It doesn’t just have to be the plain grey concrete look, either. There are many concrete finishes, including exposed aggregate, floating, trowled, stamped, and many others. Revamp the look of your driveway with new concrete, and make it your own. The concrete installation can also extend into the interior of your home’s garage. 

Pathways in the front or back

Pathways are a great addition to your home’s landscape. A new pathway can come in any size and with any finish, similar to that of the driveway. Whether you’re looking for a straight pathway to connect the front and back of your home or any other design to enhance your property in the front or back, 1 OAK Concrete has you covered.

Patios for additional living space

Patios are a great place to kick back and relax, or simply spend some time outside. Having a functional outdoor living space will increase your enjoyment of your home. Functional patios have a good return on investment and can increase resale value. Concrete patios lay the necessary foundation for your yard’s design and can be installed in a range of finishes. It can be poured in a way to accommodate flowerbeds too, making your design stand out that much more. 

Concrete steps

Connect your home and driveway with a new set of concrete steps. Concrete is a sturdy material. Concrete allows for a solid and fresh set of steps that will last for many years to come. The stairs and landing are the centerpieces of the front of your home. New concrete allows you to combine looks and function. If your current concrete steps are damaged, or you’d like to replace old wooden steps with concrete, connect with 1 OAK Concrete. 

Concrete Contractors in Edmonton

1 OAK Concrete has built its reputation by putting it’s customers first. The attention to detail they bring to every project and the cleanliness of every job site makes your experience one of a kind. Their crew “pours” their hearts into their work and it shows time and time again. 1 OAK Concrete has expanded rapidly in St. Albert and Edmonton, and are proud to have customers loyally since 1967. 

Interested? Visit 1 OAK Concrete today!

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

When it comes to a bathroom renovation, the design options are limitless. With so many different materials out there at your disposal, it can seem overwhelming. A common material used in bathrooms is tile, and there are many ways to use it. From keeping it simple to creating different patterns and designs, tile is a versatile material to work with. 

Contemporary Bath Kitchen and Design Center in Calgary brings years of experience and expertise when it comes to your bathroom, kitchen, or basement remodeling project. Here they provide some different ways to incorporate tile into your bathroom renovation. 

Keeping it Simple

You don’t have to go crazy with your tile designs. Sometimes, it can be best to keep things simple. For a more modern look with clean lines, sticking with a white or neutral-toned tile can achieve just that. This can be done on floors, showers, backsplash, or any other element of your bathroom you choose. If you want a little flare, add it with colourful accessories and decor. 

Use Patterns

There are many ways to incorporate patterns in your bathroom using tile. The first, and easiest way is to find a tile that comes with a pattern on it. The pattern will add some character to your bathroom space, and give the design that missing element of creativity. Another way to integrate patterns into your bathroom using tile is to make patterns with the tile itself. This could be changing the direction of the tile or using the material to create different designs of images on your floors and walls. Something like mosaic could bring a design to the next level. For inspiration, connect with the professionals at Contemporary Bath, Kitchen and Design Center. 

Mix and Match

Looking to individualize your bathroom space? Mixing and matching different tile materials can do that! There are many ways to go about this. It could be alternating two different tiles to create a mixed-up pattern look. Another way could be to start with one material and integrate it into another. Many homeowners are doing this for their flooring patterns, giving the bathroom a unique look that makes it stand out from the rest.

Find bathroom renovation inspiration from this video!

Bathroom Renovations in Calgary

Contemporary Bath Kitchen and Design Center can help design and install your bathroom, kitchen, or basement renovation. Their staff are dedicated to helping you choose just the right fixtures, cabinets, tile, stone, even paint, to make your kitchen renovation or bathroom remodeling project look like it belongs on a magazine cover! They look forward to being there for your next kitchen remodeling project, bathroom renovation, or anything in-between.

For more information, visit Contemporary Bath Kitchen and Design Center today!

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

How to Turn a Space in Your Home into a She Shed with the Help of Handyman Connection

If you feel like you need your own space in your home, consider turning a part of your house into a she shed. She sheds range from craft spaces to workshops and beyond—no matter what kind of space you are looking for, this is your opportunity to create your own area.

What is a She Shed?

A she shed is a way to turn any old space into a multi-use room. From storing garden tools to setting up for your tools and equipment for refinishing furniture, crafts big and small, a study nook, and more, this space will provide a little get away and a workspace for you to use however you wish.

She sheds can be put into converted sheds or barns or you can get creative and use this idea to upgrade an unfinished area in your basement or garage to make a workspace of your own if you do not have a shed or backyard. Any area that gets upgraded will possibly need insulation, drywall, a fresh coat of paint, and more to make it an attractive and comfortable space. If you are upgrading a shed in your backyard, that fresh coat of paint inside and out plus installing flooring, adding a window or two, and replacing the shed doors will bring new life into the space.

Before you begin any upgrades, it’s important to know what your end goal is. Make a list and see what you can do on your own or where you might need a professional handyman’s help. For example, you can do painting and drywall, but you might need a professional to put in windows and new light switches. No matter what, there are endless ways to complete your next project and it all starts with what you would like to do to make your she shed a reality.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact our talented craftspeople at Handyman Connection for all your updates, construction, and repair needs. Schedule an estimate if you are ready to start planning renovation projects today. 

The post Turn a Space in Your Home into a She Shed appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Finishing drywall can be quite a process. What homeowners may not know is that there are many levels that go into drywall finishing. Stampede Drywall in Calgary can complete every stage for your home project, but what exactly are the stages? Here’s what to expect from each level of the drywall finishing process. 

Stage 1

Not much has been completed in the first of the drywall finishing levels. At this stage, the walls have been taped, including places for outlets and light fixtures. This step may take some time, depending on how complicated the walls are in terms of shapes or nooks. If you’re thinking about DIY drywall projects, read why you should hire a drywall contractor. 

Stage 2

With everything being taped, the painting stage can begin. At this stage, the holes from installing the drywall are painted over with a joint compound, and are covered up completely. Depending on the room in your home or where the drywall is installed, you could stop here. If it were the bathroom, or perhaps your kitchen, the walls will likely be covered with cabinets and tile. Tile doesn’t require any other finishes on the drywall when installed, so it may not be necessary to move onto another level. 

Stage 3

If you walls won’t have tile, additional joint compound may be painted on. That way, your wall will have more texture to it. It’ll also fully cover any holes that screws may have caused during the drywall installation process. 

Stage 4

The fourth level is where most homeowners stop. In this stage, the drywall has been painted, and is now sanded down. The sanding will make sure the wall can hold paint, or potentially wallpaper. Whether the homeowner moves onto the next level depends on a few different components. 

Stage 5

Depending on the kind of paint you want to use on your walls, or the kind of lighting that will be present in the room, it may be a good idea to go to level five of drywall finishing. A skim coat is added, finishing off the drywall completely. The finish added will ensure your walls look great with the paint you choose, and will give you the effect you’re looking for. 

Drywall Contractors in Calgary

While providing a full range of services in residential and commercial applications, Stampede Drywall Ltd. specializes in the renovation of homes to their former and future glory. Their projects include lath and plaster, cove cornice steppe, knock-down level 5, and custom ceiling and wall finishes. If you are looking for that “wow” factor, you can count on them!

Interested? Check out Stampede Drywall today!

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

Major renovations are big projects with many steps and processes involved. A good renovation contractor will take care of the building stage, as well as the planning and buying stages. Hiring the right company will reduce stress and make your renovation a positive experience. Cross Iron Contracting in Edmonton provides start-to-finish renovation help from design and planning, project management to the construction stage.

They share more about how their services can bring peace of mind to your entire renovation:

Start with design and planning

Thinking up dream ideas and concepts is one thing, but putting it in a solid design plan can be more challenging. In a home renovation, knocking out a certain wall may not be possible if it’s a support wall. Certain colours and layouts may look good on paper, but in your home, they may not flow quite as well. Alone, this can easily become stressful or result in unsatisfactory results. With Cross Iron Contracting, their help starts with that design stage. They have over ten years of renovation experience and skill, so they can help draw ideas and concepts that fit your dream and can help make it a reality.

They’ll handle the permits

Many types of renovations, like electrical work, plumbing, or any major structural changes, will need a permit. Depending on where you live and the local regulations, the permit process, and application can vary. If you don’t know what you need or how to apply, it can easily set back a renovation with the delay. A master bathroom renovation, for example, can easily need more than just a plumbing permit with bigger planned renovations.

When you work with a skilled company like Cross Iron Contracting, they’ll handle the permit process. Once your designs are in place, they’ll know what permits are needed and ensure they get them without causing delays in the renovation timeline. If there are inspections involved in a building permit, you can also rest easy knowing the renovation will be up to code.

Project management

The main part of a successful renovation is having a good team and good management. Extensive renovations typically have multiple elements of work, meaning different trade work is also necessary. Someone needs to hire, schedule, organize, and manage everyone who will be working on your home. A general contractor with management skills can handle the supervision of the renovation for you. They’ll ensure the work gets done on time, is handled with quality, and that any finishing work gets detailed attention.

A general contractor will also be your point of contact for any questions or concerns during the work. Cross Iron Contracting will keep you updated and with complete transparency for the whole process. With their help, there are no surprise costs, problems, or changes that could cause a stressful and not peaceful renovation.

General Contractors in Edmonton

With ten years of trusted renovation experience, Cross Iron Contracting is the right company to call. Their professionals are trained, knowledgeable, and ready to help with any renovation. With their help, you get quality and peace of mind together.

Contact Cross Iron Contracting today!

Click to Find >>>>General Contractors in Edmonton.

Click to Find >>>>Bathroom Renovations in Edmonton.

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

If you’re looking for more living space, consider a basement development or renovation. There are many ways to maximize your basement space to get the most usage out of it. Not only will this give you more functional space for your family, but it can also increase resale value. 

DASH Builders in Winnipeg is an expert when it comes to basement renovations. They offer three ideas of how to revamp your basement space. 

1. Built-in Bar

Adding a built-in bar to your basement has several benefits. It can be convenient for storing drinks and snacks – saving you trips upstairs to the kitchen while hanging out downstairs. A built-in wet bar can also be useful for future entertaining. It can be something small, like a designated space to store your drinks, to an entire bar setting. This could include a counter with bar stools, a sink, fridge, custom shelving, and other features to make the space your own. It also gives you the opportunity to personalize your basement space to you and your family. 

2. Family Space

If your family needs a space to come together and relax, a basement is a great place for that. Having a family room in the basement will give you another space to go when spending so much time at home. Get a sectional couch, an entertainment system, and consider custom storage for games and electronics. You can also add personal touches to make the space feel cozier, like a fireplace, family photos, an area rug, and appropriate lighting. 

3. Additional Storage

Ask DASH Builders to incorporate effective storage solutions in your basement development plans. Having somewhere to put things can help you clear clutter in other parts of the house. Whether it’s a dedicated storage room, custom closet solutions, or custom cabinetry in the main living area, your contractor can help. Keep a designated space for storage to keep your home clean, organized, and help reduce stress. 

Basement Renovations in Winnipeg

DASH Builders is experienced in all aspects of construction and serves Winnipeg and the surrounding areas. From a bathroom renovation to a complete home makeover, their goal is to exceed their customer’s expectations. They believe in building quality rooms that last. At DASH Builders, they take their time so that everything is done properly, ensuring you will have nothing to worry about down the road.

Contact DASH Builders today!

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

Written by Blitz Electric Ltd.

Are you tired of putting up and taking down Christmas lights? We have the solution.

GlowStone Lighting Permanent LED Light System

Blitz Electric is now an authorized dealer for GlowStone Lighting and their permanent LED soffit light system.

This product is exciting in so many ways!

Permanent: No more running up and down ladders to install, take down, or repair holiday lighting

Customizable: Perfect for any event or holiday season, the colors of your favourite sports team (Go Oilers), orange for Halloween, or red and white for Canada Day. In fact, you can choose one of up to 64 million possible color combinations!

Multi-Purpose: Soft lighting is available for backyard BBQ’s, and pool/hot tub parties, and for added security in low light areas

Low profile: These lights install on the soffit of your home with an exact color matching track. When they are not turned on, they are unnoticeable

Durable: Rated for 10 or 20 years depending on the system you choose.

Convenient: The entire lighting system can be operated from your smartphone or tablet with a free app

Glowstone Lighting Systems have been designed and tested to endure the rigours of our Canadian climate. Here is a link to a video on YouTube that was created by my partners at GlowStone Lighting.

More Features

Glowstone offers standard and premium systems.

The standard system features a capped back that limits damage from extreme weather and humidity by protecting the silicone waterproofing gel in each light. The waterproof rating of IP67 and low-temperature rating of -20 degrees Celsius ensure the durability and toughness needed to survive Canadian winters. By using a specially designed string of 20 lights, we limit the number of fail points in your system and solder and heat shrink our connections. Click Here to learn more and get your customized quote for the standard system.

The premium system is the only system in North America with a waterproof rating of IP68 and a temperature rating of -55 degrees Celsius. It is completely dust proof and can be frozen in a block of ice or even submerged in boiling water and still work perfectly.  It even has a fireproof rating of V-0, which means these lights won’t start a fire or sustain a flame. We solder and heat shrink all of our connections together for even greater durability, with a 20-year guarantee. These are without a doubt the very highest quality lights and installation on the market. Contact us today for your free consultation and quote!

780-965-1260

[email protected]

Read more from electricians in Edmonton. 

#electricalcompaniesinedmonton #edmontonelectricalcompanies #bestelectriciansedmonton #electricalcompaniesedmonton #edmontonelectricians #electriciansinedmonton #electricalcontractorsedmonton #electricalcompaniesedmonton #edmontonelectricalcontractor #glowstonelighting #outdoorlighting #outdoorledlighting

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

Written by Adelco Home Services in Vancouver

You may not know this, but you can trace back gutters to the ancient Roman days. And why not? Gutters not only protect our beautiful abode from the several dangers uncontrolled flow of water brings – but it also protects our health by extension.

But all the protection gutters provide last only as well as they are maintained. In a city like Vancouver, where the rains hit hard –  a poorly maintained gutter spells catastrophe. It gives room for debris and dirt to accumulate, reducing the gutter’s efficiency at controlling the flow of water.

And when water strays off the course a gutter provides. Molds take root, paint gets eroded, pests fester, and the beauty of our home gradually recedes. This goes on and on till the roof gets damaged and all hell breaks loose.

While most owners are aware that Cleaning their gutter is essential to the protection of the house as well as their own peace, a number of factors hold them back from doing just that. We are going to take a look into a few of those as well as the best solution to them.

Lack of Time

The major hindrance to a clean gutter is a lack of time. Given the time, no one would leave their leaves and rodents rotting on their roof with for months. But with the hustle and bustle of modern life, time is a scarce commodity.

And unlike most other home chores, a clogged gutter is not easy to observe. So cleaning it slips through the mind quite easily. Making it easy for the problem to snowball into a serious issue requiring urgent attention and solution.

By now, however, we have to pay out of our teeth to solve the new problem, while still having to clean and/or repair the gutter anyway.

Safety

Located on the roof, gutters are not easy to reach even when you do create the time and energy to clean them out. For most, you need a ladder. Other taller buildings require building a scaffold for sufficient support.

Moving ladders around as well as staying on them for prolonged periods of time is very risky. In fact according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) about a quarter of a million people were admitted to emergency rooms from falls from ladders alone in 2019.

Most people take a glance at the risk involved in cleaning out their own gutters and just give up on it.

The Dread

To be honest, gutters are simply gross. Weeks and weeks’ worth of dust, grime and decaying leaves makes a hideous sight. Not to talk of the smell, ugh!

To make matters worse, jumping on a ladder with adequate protection makes climbing up and down a ladder clumsy and more susceptible to accidents.

The Solution

As with most things, professionals are the best at handling problems. A lot of worries with gutter cleaning can easily be solved by a professional gutter cleaning service.

The only difficulty then becomes finding a reliable, affordable, effective, and trustworthy professional that we can leave the task up to.

Fortunately, these virtues are what Adelco Homes Services are founded on.

Give us a call – for free! And you will be dazzled by the immaculate job our agents would do on your gutter.

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