Why asbestos removal is not a DIY homeowner project 

Finding out there is asbestos in your home is a nightmare situation for any homeowner. Trying to do a DIY removal not only risks worsening the situation but also endangers your health. If breathed in, asbestos can lead to severe internal damage, so professional help is always best.

Progressive Environmental Inc. in Vancouver is a professional asbestos and mould testing and removal company. They share more about asbestos and why hiring their professionals is the safest call to make:

Difference from mould

Unlike mould, which is a living thing, asbestos was a product used in construction during the late 1800s. It has been banned since the 1979s, but homes built up until that point may still contain some asbestos. Asbestos was used to strengthen cement, for plastics, insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and even paints. If disturbed, asbestos breaks down and releases dust particles in the air. Short-term exposure, if inhaled, may only have a low health risk. However, long-term risks can cause lung tissue scarring and, in severe cases, will lead to lung cancer.

Mould, in comparison, is naturally found in the environment and can grow indoors given the right setting. There are also twelve different types of mould, each varying in colour, shape, and degree of health risk. It is also generally easier to spot than asbestos as it grows on surfaces. Reactions from exposure to mould range from allergic reactions, infections, or rashes. Severe cases, such as long-term exposure, can be more dangerous.

Asbestos removal is risky

Without the right experience and care, asbestos removal can be a risky process. If any of it is knocked loose, the dust particles released can be easily inhaled. Old asbestos as well will naturally deteriorate and risk being released during a renovation. Even DIY asbestos kits aren’t always entirely reliable when identifying the presence of asbestos. Without proper experience, the results can be misread, and the equipment itself isn’t always professional quality. Even conducting the test itself incorrectly risks disturbing the asbestos and releasing it into the air.

The problem may be more involved

If you find signs of asbestos under your floor tiles and DIY remove it, there’s no guarantee that’s all there is. As a widespread construction material, other areas in your home likely contain asbestos. DIY searches for more asbestos, such as tearing down walls or removing more flooring, risks disturbing the asbestos. Because asbestos does not grow like mould, it requires professional experience to know where to look and safely test. The removal process itself may also be more involved, depending on the amount of asbestos present in the home.

Leave it to the pros 

Removing asbestos should always be left to a professional. Beyond just knowing where to look for asbestos, they have the right tools and equipment for the job. While store-bought asbestos testing kits are available, they are generally not recommended. Even if you think your home has asbestos in it, it’s safer to call in a professional for an inspection. A professional will know where to look for asbestos, how to safely check it, and if any is found, how to safely move it from your home.

Asbestos Removal in Vancouver

Your health and safety are the main priorities of the professionals at Progressive Environmental Inc. They work quickly, efficiently, but most importantly, safely, to help protect your home. Whether you need asbestos or mould testing and, or removal, they are the right company to call. 

Contact Progressive Environmental Inc now!

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

Before you start budgeting for new windows, first consider whether the damage is repairable instead. Foggy windows, cracked glass, or leaks doesn’t necessarily mean that a full replacement is in order. Knowing the difference can save you money or offer a solution to make your home more energy-efficient.

Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. in Calgary provides high-quality windows and installation services. They share what type of window problems can be repaired or when a replacement is best:

Cracked glass: repair

Cracked and especially broken glass should be repaired immediately and not ignored. Aside from the visual problems it creates, it’s also a matter of safety. It is important as well to recognize the types of cracks in the glass and what caused them. Stress cracks, for example, start at the edge of the window and then spread out. That may be caused by slamming the window or from extreme temperature fluctuations. Pressure cracks, though less common, are also caused by extreme weather or from elevation issues. If the glass can’t withstand the elevation, the pressure buildup will cause it to crack. Replacing the windows with thicker glass and ones that suit the climate will help prevent future cracks.

Broken sashes: repair

Sashes can become damaged for several reasons but are generally easy to fix. Sometimes painting the window frame can cause the sash and frame to bind together. In this case, clearing away the dried paint should fix the problem. Otherwise, the sash may have jumped the track, or in spring sashes, the problem may be a worn-out spring. These are all easy to fix problems that do not include the costly replacement of the entire window. If you have older windows and sashes that constantly break down, however, then it may be more beneficial to consider a replacement.

Foggy windows: replace

In double- or triple-paned windows, fog buildup results from moisture that has gotten between the panels of glass. If the condensation is on the inside of the window––simply run your finger on the glass to check––then the humidity is from indoor air. Otherwise, if the issue is limited to one window and the fog doesn’t clear, it’s the window. The seal on the glass panes is likely broken or damaged, and the insulation gas is escaping. In this case, replacing the window is the best option.

Increasing bills: replace

If you’ve noticed that your monthly bills are steadily rising and there’s a constant draft coming from the window, it may be time to consider new windows. Old windows often become drafty as their insulation and durability begin to wear out. While caulking the window can help lessen drafts, it won’t completely fix the problem. Instead, investing in newer and more energy-efficient windows will save you much more in the long run. Your home will stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It also protects your HVAC system from working so hard, which will help prolong its lifespan.

Windows in Calgary

If you need window repair or energy-efficient replacements, then Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. is the company to call. Their professionals provide quality customer care, work, and support for any project. Everything from window repair and replacements, upgrades, or consultations are what Reliable Glass & Windows proudly provides.

Contact Reliable Glass & Windows Ltd. today!

Click to Find >>>> Windows in Calgary.

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

Depending on the type of renovation you have planned, there is likely some demolition work involved. That may mean tearing out old tubs and sinks, or bigger work like tearing down a wall. Either way, knowing when it’s safe to DIY and when a professional is needed will keep you and your home safe.

Wynter Renovations in Calgary provides full-service general contractor work for residential and commercial jobs. They share what demolition projects you can DIY and when to hire their general contractors to help:

DIY: small demolition

Small or light work can be easily DIYed to save on the labour costs of hiring a professional to handle it. These projects include taking down cabinets that you don’t plan to reuse, tearing out tiles or pulling up old flooring. It can also include moving out old appliances, and, as long as the water is off, taking out small fixtures like sinks. The same goes for tearing out trim detailing, like baseboards.

DIY: small deck removal

If you have a small backyard deck or patio, and the design or use just isn’t working anymore, tear it out. Low to the ground decks are safe to dismantle and maneuver during the process. If you’re careful as well, the wood from the deck can be resold or reused. Start with the railings and stairs before moving on the boards and rest of the deck. Once the old deck is out, hire a contractor to design and build a newer, better deck to boost your home’s value.

Pro: structural changes

Any work involving structural changes, like moving or tearing down walls, should always be left to a professional. If you can’t safely identify the parts of a wall or know where a load-bearing wall is, don’t attempt to DIY. Aside from the mess, there are a few safety hazards of inexperienced demolition. Hidden electrical wires or even pipes can easily be damaged when tearing down the wall. The cleanup afterwards as well is an involved process that takes time and care to clean everything properly. Leaving it to a general contractor guarantees both the safety and timely turn-around of the work.

Pro: opening walls

If you have plans that involve opening up a wall, whether to install new wiring or plumbing, call in a pro first. The main reason is there’s no guarantee of what you may find behind a sealed wall. Mould is a common problem, but older homes, in particular, have a higher risk of having asbestos involved. If any is found, all work must stop, and the asbestos cleared by a professional. Before you make any holes in your walls, hire a general contractor to help. If you suspect mould or live in an older home, have your home inspected for mould or asbestos before any renovations begin.

General Contractors in Calgary

Whatever service, help, installation, or repair you need, Wynter Renovations is ready to help. Their team of professional general contractors guarantee that every project is handled with quality care and detail. Everything from basement renovations, new builds, kitchens, renovations or remodels, Wynter Renovations is ready to help.

Contact Wynter Renovations today!

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

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

Basements are well-known to provide a good return on investment, making them one of the best areas to renovate. Still, basements also have a lot of work involved that can affect the final quality. That’s why it’s important to know when it’s safe to DIY and when you need a professional.

Just Right Renovations Ltd. in Winnipeg is a professional general contractor and renovations company. They share what parts of a basement reno you can DIY and what should be left to their pros:

DIY: Flooring with prep

Most floors that are safe to use in a basement, those that are moisture-resistant, also happen to be easier to DIY for a handy person. For example, ceramic tile, rubber, and luxury vinyl plank and tile are all excellent floor options that can be installed by an experienced DIYer. The main thing to be aware of is to make sure that you install a waterproof barrier beneath the floor. That’ll help protect against mould or moisture beneath the floors, especially for tile. If you’re at all unsure, or don’t have the time to commit to a large project like this, stick to hiring the professionals.

Pro: framing and drywall

DIY drywall is not recommended. The same goes for framing, especially in an unfinished basement. Framing provides the support and protection basements need but also affects how well the room looks overall at the end. Proper tools, the right skill, and experience are all crucial for safe framing. Drywalling is easy in theory but similarly has just as much room for error. Mistakes are very noticeable and can compromise the integrity of your finished walls.

With a professional, not only will the work go faster, but safety and quality is a guarantee. They’ll have the right tools and skills to safely frame the basement and then tackle any drywalling from there. Investing in a professional is an investment both into the safety of the project and the value of a basement reno. Plus, you won’t see any seams or screw marks on a professionally finished drywalled wall.

DIY: Painting

If you have the time and motivation, painting can be handled as a DIY project and can save money. Make sure to use a waterproof primer and not a standard primer for added protection against moisture. Basements also typically use a flat finish for a smooth and elegant appearance. Since basements tend to be darker, stick with brighter colours and shades to help brighten the area. White is classic, but warm browns, tans, and even greys or blues are great colour choices. While painting the basement is possible DIY, consider hiring a professional if you’re unsure of your abilities or want to save the time and hassle.

Pro: plumbing and electrical

Any working involving plumbing and electrical will need a permit and the right level of skill. Installing a basement bathroom, for example, is a complicated and involved project. Proper ventilation is crucial for letting moisture out, while plumbing must be carefully installed for drainage. Basement wiring as well, whether for lighting or a home theatre, needs to be handled with care to prevent any circuit overloads. In both cases, hiring a professional is the safest choice. Not only do they have the right experience, but they’ll also guarantee the safety and quality of the work. It’ll also ensure that any plumbing and electrical work is up to code and won’t risk safety or cause insurance issues down the road.

Basement Renovations in Winnipeg

Quality renovations and peace of mind are what Just Right Renovations Ltd. proudly provides every time. Their professionals can help with any work, whether a major renovation or just a quick repair. No matter what you need, your home is in the right hands with Just Right Renovations.

Contact Just Right Renovations Ltd. now!

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

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

How is the landscaping around your commercial building or business? Without the right care, nature can quickly take over once again and reflect poorly on external appearance. However, with a professional landscape design and then continued upkeep, your business will benefit year-round.

Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. in Calgary is a professional commercial and residential landscaping company. They share how their professional landscapers can boost your business with year-round care:

The first impression lasts all year

A great first impression is important to attracting new customers and clients and even keeping current ones. You only ever get one chance at a first impression. A well-manicured lawn and plants in the spring and summer is one thing, but what about fall and winter? You want that same quality of care and attention to detail to continue, even as the seasons change. Fall maintenance will ensure plants continue to look maintained, and any debris is cleared away for a pristine look. Winter snow and ice removal are key to keeping customers safe and maintaining your building’s positive appearance. It’s also important to have your parking lot sanded to improve traction in the winter, and swept clean again in the spring.

Boosts value

It’s no secret that a well-maintained landscape can boost overall curb appeal and attract positive attention. Residential landscaping and maintenance often maximize this, so why not apply the same to commercial buildings? Investing in proper care is investing in the property’s value so that over the years, it continues to increase. It’s also an investment into greener measures by ensuring healthy tree growth, planting bee attracting flowers, or using sustainable watering methods. If you’re thinking about a landscaping project around your commercial space, ask your contractor about green enhancements.

Ensures healthy regrowth

Properly pruning trees and plants in the fall or fertilizing and aerating grass in the summer ensures healthy regrowth come spring. So does proper lawn care in the growing seasons. Without the right care, that investment into an attractive landscape will be lost every spring. With a professional landscape team, your landscape is guaranteed to regrow just as lush and healthy as before. Not only is that visually beneficial, but it will then also protect your landscape investment. Instead of spending more each year to replace dead plants, you continue to save by maintaining or improving what is already there.

Landscape design helps productivity

Not only is commercial landscaping good for appearances, but it can also help with internal productivity. Attractive designs with space for seating or points of interest, like fountains or rock displays, create a welcoming environment. Employees will feel more relaxed and positive, which will boost work productivity – especially if it’s right outside the window or in a common courtyard. A happier and healthier internal workforce and outside appearance will provide double the benefits for your business.

Landscapers in Calgary

Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. has been in the business for over 20 years providing quality landscaping services and care. They provide the best services for landscape care, design, maintenance, and more. They can help with commercial landscapes that’ll improve your business and commercial building. If you want landscaping and property maintenance for your home, they can also provide just as quality residential care for a yard you can enjoy for years to come.

Don’t hesitate to contact Nine Yards Landscaping Inc. today!

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

Exterior and landscape lighting can highlight certain features, add beauty, or just add some functionality to your yard. There are plenty of ways to shine some light on your landscape design, so work with an electrician for the perfect lighting.

Platinum Electrical Services in Calgary is a professional full-service electrical company. They share why their electricians are the best choice to help with landscape lighting:

Placement security and safety

The right exterior lighting placement can enhance your home’s security and safety. Sidewalks or walkways are often decorated with nearby flowers or shrubs, so lighting there is ideal. Not only will it highlight the landscape, but it’ll also make navigating the pathway easier. Task lighting, such as on a fountain or near the front entrance, helps eliminate shadows and blind spots. Trespassers are less likely to wander onto a property that is well lit. It also helps create a more feature focus on certain areas. Motion detector lights are also useful if you only need lighting at specific times, such as going from the car to the house. It’s also useful to save money and deter unwanted visitors.

Use light techniques

Professional electricians will know all about different lighting techniques, beyond just spotlights. For example, down-lighting creates a circle of light on the ground that can be used to shine on focal points. Up-lighting is the opposite and uses ground lighting to shine up onto an object. That is especially useful to highlight canopies or highlight the shape and structure of a larger tree. By working with an electrician, they’ll be able to use their expertise to help you choose the right lighting technique. To plan ahead, take a walk through your yard during the day and decide what areas you want to be highlighted. Then, discuss the layout with your electrician and leave the light techniques to them.

Proper installation

Taking care to install your outdoor lighting properly is important not only so it works but also so you don’t overload your circuit. Outdoor lighting will likely need wiring as well, which should be buried to avoid any tripping hazards. Likewise, optimizing where to bury wires and how deep area easy matters for an electrician. Not only that, but an electrician can help make sure your electrical bill doesn’t skyrocket. Consider both low-voltage lights, which run on 12 volts, and LED bulbs, which don’t use excess energy or create too much heat. Both are energy-saving options and still produce just as much light and appeal for your yard. With these, you’ll still get the beauty of outdoor lights but without the cost. If your circuit needs more power or an upgrade first, your electrician will know and handle the work.

Electricians in Calgary

Fast and reliable service with quality guaranteed is what Platinum Electrical Services provides every time. As a full-service electrical company, they can help with everything from new home wiring, installations, and interior or exterior work. With their skill and experienced professionals, your home will be completely safe, secure, and efficient in no time.

Contact Platinum Electrical Services today!

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

If you’ve been considering replacing your roof, time may be running out. Canada is known for its long and unpredictable winters, and snow might be on the way sooner than you think. Replacing a roof in winter is not impossible but comes with many challenges, so it may be worth considering its replacement sooner rather than later. From the roofers at Marchuk Roofing in Calgary, here’s why you should replace your roof before the winter season.

Heat helps

Depending on the roofing material you choose to install, it may need time to properly adhere to your roof. The primary way this is done is through the sun heating up the roof to dry the adhesive product. If this is done in the winter, it will risk damaging the new roof because there’s less heat present, allowing roofing to potentially fall or shift. In the summer or even autumn, there’s a good amount of heat to dry the adhesive.

Water damage

If your roof has issues with water damage, the winter cold could be detrimental to your home. Water can easily get into cracks in the walls and freeze, worsening any damage to your walls and home foundation. It can also cause mould problems if left too long and that can be dangerous for your family if they were to breathe it in. To prevent water damage from worsening due to snow, get ahead of the winter storm.

Longer project time

While it’s not impossible to replace a roof during the winter, it will definitely take longer. The roofers will consistently have to clear snow, and extreme weather conditions can make it difficult for roofers to work. They’ll have to stop to warm up, and the materials can break in colder temperatures, which makes getting the job done challenging. While it is possible to get a discount in the winter, it’s still time-consuming and that means installation will be more expensive. Getting the roof done with clearer, nicer weather allows for a faster job so you won’t be listening to people walking on your roof for a longer period.

Save money on bills

Preparing for winter with a new roof will affect your heating and energy bills. With any damages fixed and additional insulation installed, then you won’t have to worry about heat escaping the home. Not only will you keep your family warm, but you’ll save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Roofers in Calgary

Marchuk Roofing guarantees you’ll always get the highest quality roofing service no matter the time of year. They offer a wide range of quality products and styles along with their reputable customer service. Their expert installers know the tricks of the trade to work with the weather and make your roof last for many years to come.

Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Marchuk Roofing today!

Click to Find >>>> Roofers in Calgary

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

Professional Tips on How to Remove and Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash

It’s finally time to update your kitchen. The updates have been planned, the colors have been picked, and your next project is the kitchen tile backsplash. Before you begin, here are some pointers on how to remove and install kitchen tile backsplash in your home.

Before you begin, ready the area you are working in. Taking your time, working carefully, and having a clean workspace is key to making sure you do not damage the drywall underneath the backsplash and that your work is completed with quality results. Make sure the surrounding kitchen counter is clear and empty, all outlet covers are removed, and the electricity is turned off when you are working on the kitchen tile backsplash.

You will need a hammer, electric or hand sander, putty knife, utility knife, a drywall sanding pad, drywall joint compound, and at least 120 grit sandpaper. Use your hammer and putty knife to remove the tiles but work carefully to not mark or damage the drywall underneath. Next, scrape the adhesive off the wall with a putty knife if it is hard or use the sandpaper if it is soft. If you scrape the drywall on accident, repair any scratches and gouges with the drywall joint compound. Once dry, sand. Sand the entire wall smooth when complete.

When the wall is ready for the new and improved backsplash, spread a thick layer of thinset where the backsplash will lay. This adhesive will help the tile set well, without any roughness or affects from the old adhesive and sanded wall. It is recommended to begin laying the backsplash along the edge of the countertop first to make sure it is applied flush to the counter. Then begin to work it upwards, away from the counter to place it properly.

If you are ready to begin picking out your new kitchen tile backsplash, our tips on how to remove and install kitchen tile backsplash are here for you. But more importantly, you might want to save yourself the hassle and hire professional contractors to complete the installation for you. Either way, your kitchen will be updated and sparkling new before you know it.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact our local Handyman Connection office to learn more about our tile and backsplash services. Call or text your local Handyman Connection office to learn more about our home maintenance and home repair services.  

The post How to Remove and Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Embarking on home renovations or building an infill home are significant investments. Adding beauty, function, personal enjoyment of your home, and resale value to your property are the returns. The first place you should start with any home renovation is reviewing your finances and creating a budget.

As general contractors in Edmonton, Four Elements Construction can help you create a budget for your renovation that meets your needs. Then once planning and construction are underway, you’ll benefit from having a professional project manager helping you stay on budget.

General contractors will create a detailed plan

With your budget in mind, the design team at Four Elements Construction will draft a detailed plan for the renovation. Having a plan in place will identify costs and help you track them throughout the renovation. Without a well-laid plan, you’ll experience more change-orders, over-spending on materials, and paying more for mistakes made along the way. Design and budget planning is essential to achieving the renovation results you want without overspending.

General contractors can offer expertise to help the renovation stay on track

Edmonton general contractors will include details on building materials and finishing materials in the contract, budget, and design plans. These will consist of parts of your renovation like tile, flooring, countertops, and so on. Four Elements Construction will keep lines of communication open and will help you choose finishings that will best suit your design tastes and your budget.

Make sure you are open about what you like and want. If you change your mind during the renovation, it will cost you more money. You might have to purchase new materials and pay for labour and installation twice. Fewer changes mean you will stay closer to your budget. Read these renovation budget tips.

General contractors can show you some cost-effective options

If your budget is tight, it doesn’t mean you can’t renovate. Four Elements Construction can show you some cost-effective alternatives that can still give you a modern, refreshed home. For example, installing vinyl plank flooring that mimics the look of real hardwood flooring could be a smart way to achieve the look you want without the more significant price tag. Or, if you like the layout of your kitchen, you can choose to reface your cabinets instead of investing in all-new custom cabinetry. Options are out there, and an experienced general contractor will be there to help you achieve the best results for your budget.

Start planning your home renovation. Contact Four Elements Construction.

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

If your needs have changed and your current home no longer meets them, it’s time for a change. Deciding whether you should invest in a significant home renovation, buy or build a new home can be challenging. Here are some things to consider when making this tough decision.

Where do you want to live?

If you love your location and can renovate your home to suit your changing needs, staying put might be the best idea for you. Consider your location, and it’s proximity to schools, work, parks, and other services. Do you have good relationships with your neighbours or are you tied into the community? These things are possible in a new location but might take time to develop.

Talk to a licensed home builder like By Design Construction. They can help you determine if a duplex can be built or perhaps if a laneway home can be built on your current lot or suggest a new neighbourhood that will meet your needs.

What is the condition of your current home?

A contractor can inspect your current home to make sure it doesn’t have any major issues. Problems with outdated framing and joists, electrical systems, and foundation issues could factor in your decision to renovate or build new. If your home doesn’t have good ‘bones’ and will require extensive work to get it into good shape before the big remodeling project even starts – you might want to consider starting from scratch and building a new home.

What is your budget?

If you have a budget worked out for your home renovation or new home build, it can help you decide the next course of action. With financing in place, you can get a cost estimate to remodel while pricing out a new home build on a new or your existing lot. It would help if you considered the costs of building and moving vs. the cost of renovating and staying.

Determine the costs of selling and moving. That includes realtor fees, storage, movers, cleaners, taxes, and sometimes having to rent a place temporarily. Moving is also time-consuming and stressful. If you’re embarking on a significant home remodel, you should consider the remodel cost plus additional costs. If the remodel is extensive, you might not be able to live in the house during construction. Do you have somewhere you can stay, or will you have to rent storage and suite elsewhere? These are all things that should be included in your budget plan.

What is the return on investment?

For some, the value of staying in a neighbourhood they love is enough return on investment. Others might want to see that value added to the price of their property. Get an appraisal of your home before and after the project. A contractor or real estate agent can help you with this. If a monetary ROI is essential to you, you should invest in renovations that recoup more of their cost at resale. These renovations include exterior improvements, kitchen, and bathroom renovations.

Whether you decide to renovate or build a new home, By Design Construction are custom home builders that can offer guidance and cost estimates. The best place to start is with a conversation.

Contact By Design Construction for a FREE onsite consultation today.

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