15 Kitchen Trends for 2020-2021

Like quartz countertops and all-white cabinets, some kitchen design trends are timeless classics that will never go out of style. Others, however, change year by year as new trends and designs take over. That said, don’t worry about doing a complete kitchen overhaul each year just to keep up. Yes, kitchen renovations have great ROI, but it’s not worth a yearly shift!

Instead, the good news is that these kitchen trends can be broken down into different parts of the kitchen. If you love the idea of a new paint colour but are still happy with your counters, then just focus on colours. There are plenty of trends to pick and choose from, so take a look and start customizing your dream kitchen. We’ve broken them down into the following categories: colours, cabinets, countertops, and other trends.

Colours  

At the top of the list of new trends are colours, but not just the classic white kitchen or bold black look anymore. Neutral tones are still used, but the latest trend is to combine bright colours and maximize pastels. The colours themselves can be used for countertops, cabinets, backsplash or wall paint. These new shades also lend themselves to specific decors, like modern, contemporary, classic, and rustic.

1. Modern: colour contrast 

Colour contrast is a statement in itself when it comes to modern décor, but not just for neutral contrasts. The new modern trend is to use bold colours to transform the look of your kitchen completely. A good rule to follow is the 70/20/10 guideline. 70% is the kitchen’s primary colour, meaning the cabinets, countertops, or walls. 10% is for the really dramatic accent, while 20% is for a third balancing colour.

For example, make 70% of the kitchen a bright teal or even bold purple, such as for the cabinets and kitchen island. Then focus the 20% on the backsplash or a feature wall using a complementary balance of a pastel pink or blue. The final 10% can be used on light fixtures, barstool or accessories like plants to add a final pop of colour.

2. Contemporary: bright splashes and neutral bases

The new contemporary kitchen design trend is similar to the modern look, with its focus on bright splashes of colour. However, the base colours steer more towards neutral tones instead of pastels to help offset those brighter shades. Imagine stone-grey countertops, blue-green cabinets, and then bold red splashes on the chairs or a feature wall. These colourful pops help brighten the space and highlight a specific feature or area of the room. For example, ceiling-height cabinets or a central kitchen island will equally benefit as the feature choice for a colour pop. Generally, whatever takes up the most visual space in a room will benefit from being the main focal feature.

3. Classic: off tones and simple shades 

A colour trend that is guaranteed to be around every year is the classic palette. With dominating whites and beiges, you can’t go wrong with a classic kitchen. That said, the new classic trend leans towards the off tones and soft touches of colour. Instead of pure white, think white dove or ivory. As for traditional grey, focus on pewter or steel shades. The simple shades lean towards gentle pastels that perfectly complement the off tones. Pastel blue, pink, and even mint green, for example, are all popular choices. Unlike the other colour trends, classic focuses its colour palette on complementary accents and appealing touches here and there.

4. Rustic: natural wood and earth tones

In contrast to the other colour trends, rustic kitchens are starting to make a comeback once again. While before, wood cabinets were commonly painted over, they are now being left natural. To complement that natural wood look, focus more on earthy paint tones. Dark green, reddish browns, and steel blues work as perfect accents to bring out the wood’s natural beauty. Kitchen cabinets, islands, and countertops are shifting towards a wood décor. As for wood species, the darker looks are taking over from the traditional lighter styles. The most popular and striking choices include mahogany, walnut, or dark maple.

Cabinets

Like paints and colours, cabinet trends are also constantly changing. First, simple white cabinets were the popular look, followed closely by the striking two-tone style. The look now is changing again as kitchen trends 2020 moves into 2021, where open, easy to access, and eye-catching colours are the focus.

5. Open shelving

Are you tired of your old cabinet doors? Don’t worry about refacing them, because open shelving is the new look. Removing the doors helps create more openness and spaciousness in the room. Alternatively, you can replace cabinets with open shelving, or add some to space you might have in the kitchen. Big or small kitchens will benefit from the look, making it a perfect choice in any home. That also opens up even more décor possibilities. Beyond just plates and cups, plants and ornaments can be added. To add more colourful interest to the look, add some bright paint or wallpaper to the cabinet’s interior. The brighter the contrast to other colours, the more eye-catching they’ll look.

6. Colour is in 

Leave the white accents to the rest of your kitchen because coloured cabinets are in and the bolder, the better. A key part of choosing the right colour also plays in with the way it affects overall moods. Bright red is striking and bold and creates an energetic mood, making it perfect for the kitchen. Just be sure to offset it with some neutral colours to provide some balance to all that energy. Green is another positive and creative-boosting colour, so if you love to cook, then this is a great choice. If you prefer a calmer kitchen, then look instead towards silvers and violet accents. Decide what mood you want to spark in your kitchen and then use those colours accordingly.  

7. Smart storage solutions

Not only is smart storage convenient, but it also maximizes the space in your kitchen and makes it more functional. Deep drawers for pots and pans or a cookie sheet drawer will easily store any bulky cookware without wasting room. Carrousel racks are perfect for corner storage or pull out racks for deep and hard to reach cabinets. Install narrow pullout drawers to store cleaning supplies or spices for easy and convenient access. Even large kitchen islands are the perfect space to install new cabinets to store any baking utensils or add appliances like a microwave or a new mini-fridge. There are plenty of areas to install clever storage, so take a look at your kitchen and see what space can be utilized.

8. Hands-free design

Technology isn’t the only thing pushing kitchens into a hands-free space. Minimalistic kitchens are also rising in popularity, starting with hardware-free cabinets. Hidden handles or touch-release helps create a streamlined design in the space. As a result, the lack of eye-catching hardware shifts the focus to the design, colours, and overall layout. Statement cabinets such as walnut wood or ceiling-height will make the perfect addition in a hands-free kitchen.  

Countertops

Next in kitchen design ideas are countertops, which are one of the most popular parts of a kitchen to renovate. Countertops are more than just spaces to prep food; they are now one of the main focal points in a kitchen. In addition to practical functionality, appearances are a key factor to consider.

9. Quartz is still in

Ever since quartz was introduced as a perfect alternative to granite, it has continued to remain popular. As a nonporous material, water, wine, oils, and stains won’t be a risk or ever a problem. You don’t have to reseal quartz, and since it is engineered, there are plenty of ways to customize the look. It’s also incredibly durable yet low maintenance, which are two features that many homeowners love. Like white kitchens, quartz is one of those materials that isn’t going away any time soon.  

10. Sustainable materials 

Sustainability and eco-friendly alternatives are two of the biggest kitchen design ideas coming in 2021, and countertops are no exception. Recycled glass countertops are incredibly attractive and very eco-friendly as they’re made from 80% recycled glass. The colourful pieces of glass throughout the counter creates a vibrant addition that pairs well in any kitchen. You can customize how much glass you want or leave it as a more subtle display. Best of all, no two glass countertops will ever look the same, so it’s an entirely unique choice.

11. Bold concrete

Concrete is making its way into the home once again, except this time it’s not for flooring. As a countertop, concrete lends a bold and very modern addition that complements any other décor. The sleek, cool grey and lack of patterns mean you can focus on dressing up the rest of the kitchen instead. It’s also the perfect choice in a rustic kitchen, where earthy tones and wood accents will pair together beautifully with concrete. Functionally as well, concrete is just as high a contender as other materials. It’s heat resistant, easy to clean, resists stains, and will easily last a lifetime given the right care.  

12. Classy marble

Marble countertops are making a return and this time especially ones with thick, striking veins throughout them. The new colour trend for these is to move away from the classic black and white and go for striking gold veins. The warmth of the colour and the marble’s striking beauty add a high-end feel to any kitchen. Don’t shy away from simple appearances either; the bigger and bolder the veins, the better. Generally, either kitchen cabinets or the countertops are the focal features in a kitchen. So, if you are focusing on the countertops, then make sure to choose an eye-catching design.

Other trends

Beyond materials, colours, and styles seeing new trends, there are a few other areas in the kitchen that are also seeing changes. It started in kitchen trends 2020, but as 2021 moves towards greener homes and smarter and simplistic designs, kitchens are likewise following suit. These are a few of the other trends to keep an eye out for in your kitchen from easy storage, new layouts, and smarter appliances.

13. Walk-in pantries  

Pantries have been a staple in kitchens ever since they were first introduced in modern homes. Bigger pantries, in particular, have expanded their convenience and depth of storage and space. However, the new trend is to have fully walk-in pantries, similar in design to walk-in closets. In addition to rows of wall shelving, pantries are now getting their own countertops and cabinets. Dressing up the door or installing stylish lighting is also becoming more popular. Pantries are no longer back of the room storage nooks but are instead becoming new features in the kitchen.

14. Kitchen-living room blend

Open-concept floor plans have consistently been a popular design across the years. It invites more light, a sense of spaciousness, and lends a contemporary and multifunctional style. However, not all homes have a designated dining room space, as kitchen islands have replaced that need. As such, the new trend is to see a blend between the kitchen and the living room instead. The open layout between the two rooms creates a cozy and welcoming design with benefits for each. You can cook and entertain friends at the same time or enjoy a casual social night with the family. The overall design is spacious and very easy to maneuver in. At the same time, the kitchen island still helps create a natural separation between the two rooms.

15. Smart and green appliances

Smart and green go hand-in-hand when it comes to rising kitchen design trends, and it’s no surprise. As technology advances and more convenient kitchen gadgets are introduced, it’s changing how homeowners cook. Everything from voice-controlled lights, Wi-Fi controlled appliances, or smart fridges with a built-in screen is moving into modern kitchens. While technological change isn’t as quickly incorporated as new paint colours, it’s a trend that is steadily becoming more common.

Going green is another trend when it comes to new appliances and one that is quickly making waves. ENERGY STAR certified fridges, for example, are 15% more efficient compared to non-certified models. In costs, that’s the difference between spending $50 a year compared to $300 a year. Even smaller appliances like ENERGY STAR sink faucets will use 20% less water and save more year by year. It’s an all-in-one trend that benefits your home, your wallet, and the environment.  

A renovation company can help

If you want to make changes to the kitchen this year or next, consider hiring a full-service renovation company. They know the latest trends, including the ones that will pass the test of time. From the design stages, construction, through completion, having a project manager take care of all the details will make kitchen renovations easier and fun.

Find RenovationFind certified kitchen renovation companies now!

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

When trying to sell your house, it’s easy to let the little repairs start to creep up and become major stresses. It is important to fix and update things like chipped paint or outdated fixtures, especially since potential buyers will notice these details. That’s why having a handyman to help with those presale renovations will keep the process stress free.

Handyco Ottawa Inc. in Ottawa is a handyman, renovation, and restoration company. They share how their handyman services can help make your home sell-ready in no time: 

Kitchens: countertops and cabinets

Not all presale kitchen renovations have to mean a full-scale overhaul just to help attract buyers. While kitchens do play a significant role, it’s better to tackle specific, cost-effective renovations. Focus on the countertops and cabinets, which both take up the most visual space. With countertops, don’t automatically go for a personal or necessarily popular choice of material. Granite is attractive, but it might not be cost-effective when trying to sell your house. Instead, talk to your handyman about what gets noticed on the market or what other recently sold houses used in their kitchens. That way, you can make the right choice and ensure your home will appeal to the right buyers.

Cabinets are easier to tackle because you can refresh them instead of spending more to replace them. Keep the colours bright and neutral to appeal to buyers and make the kitchen feel bigger. A cool, dove grey or soft pastel is ideal for creating an attractive space where buyers can still envision themselves living. Another way to update is to install a few glass cabinet doors to add a sleek and aesthetically modern touch.

Bathrooms: paint and update fixtures

If the need calls for it, and you have the right budget, invest in a bathroom remodel. Swap out an old shower for a modern walk-in, update the vanity and sink, and install new heated flooring. The transformation will pay off, especially if the bathroom needs the update. According to the Remodelling Magazine cost vs. value 2020 report, a midrange bathroom renovation can add $13,688 to the resale value.

Otherwise, focus once again on simple changes that’ll help buyers visualize themselves in the room. Repaint the walls a crisp colour like white, light blue, or light green. That’ll help make the space feel bigger and brighter. Have your general contractor install new tiles, for example, a feature wall in the shower. This will add the illusion of height and provide visual interest in the bathroom as well as a luxurious feel to the shower.

Swap out any old sink and shower fixtures and install new gold-toned ones instead to add a pop of colour and warmth. Warmer-toned fixtures and additions help add a lavish and spa-like feeling to a bathroom that buyers will appreciate. Light fixtures as well can be paired with complementary tones to help draw attention throughout the room.

Exterior: landscape and paint

The outside is the first impression of the house a buyer will see, so make sure to give it some attention. A little landscaping will go a long way to dress up a house, making it more attractive and boost that important curb appeal. A simple way is to plant colourful flowers and bushes to add pops of colour and contrast against other greenery. Make sure any trees or bushes are trimmed as well, to create a more uniformed look. Just like the interior, maximize the benefits of painting the outside. Add a fresh white trim to the windows to make the siding pop against them or add a bright, bold colour to your front door for a feature look. It’ll help catch any buyers’ attention and invite them to come inside for a look around.  

Handyman in Ottawa

Handyco Ottawa is there for more than just a quick job; they provide top-quality support and complete satisfaction for all projects. From general maintenance, renovations, handyman services, and more, they are fully skilled and experienced for home transformations.

Contact Handyco Ottawa today!

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

Make your deck look like new with these deck cleaning and staining tips! There’s nothing like reviving your old deck to look new once again. 

Evaluate your Deck for Damage

Before you start cleaning and staining your deck you should always make sure that your deck doesn’t have any damage. Check for rotting wood and broken boards. Replace the broken and rotting wood before you start anything else. This is a crucial step to ensure your deck is safe and secure.

Clean your Deck

You can choose to pressure wash your deck, but always make sure you hire a professional to pressure wash it for you, or you can try using cleaning solutions that help remove dirt, debris and mildew. Pressure washing may be the better option if your deck is really old. It will help remove any old stain so you can start from new. It is also much faster than cleaning and scrubbing your deck by hand. 

Consider Applying a Wood Brightener

Wood brighteners are an easy step and should not be overlooked. During the deck staining process the stain will penetrate better if you use a wood brightener first. Spray a wood brightener on your deck, leave it on for a little while and then spray it off. It’s an easy step and it will refresh your old looking wood. 

Deck Staining Time

Now it’s finally time for the deck staining. Do your research and find the best stain for your wood, your deck and your needs. There are many options to choose from. Always follow the directions on the stain can and only apply as much stain as the wood can absorb, don’t overdo it. 

Take Your Time and Use the Right Materials

You may be eager to get your deck cleaned and stained quickly with materials you have lying around your home but it’s important to take your time and use the right materials. It will take you several days to finish your deck and it’s best to go one step at a time. Using the right materials will only help your deck down the road. The best materials and tools will create the best and lasting results. 

It is also a good idea to regularly wash your deck. This will keep your deck looking new and refreshed for longer. 

Call or text your local Handyman Connection if you need assistance repairing and refreshing your old or damaged deck. Our craftsmen are skilled professionals and have the right tools to get the job done. 

The post Deck Cleaning and Deck Staining Tips appeared first on Handyman Connection.

With the end of the hot summer days, autumn quickly approaches – leaves are turning yellow, weather is not too hot nor too cold, and there is a scent of spices in the air. After relaxing during summer on your much-needed holiday, you’ve ended up putting aside all of those home improvement tasks that you simply didn’t feel like completing then, so now it’s the right time! Fold your sleeves up and let’s get to work.

Repair patios and driveways.

Small cracks and gaps might have appeared on your driveway or patio, which now have weeds and grass growing out of them. Don’t let them get comfortable and grow even further by plucking them and then fixing and sealing the cracks.

Caulk window and doors.

Don’t wait until the chilly days of winter to start welcoming you with cold and uncomfortable draughts to start sealing your windows and doors, do it now. Any type of opening on your windows and doors could be letting out warm air and letting in cold air, so start by finding where there are unwanted gaps in your home and cover them. If you need an extra pair of hands, get in touch with our handymen in London, who will be able to draughtproof your home in a jiffy!

Uplift your flooring.

Your flooring goes through a lot of wear and tear – moisture, excessive summer heat, objects falling on the ground, furniture scraping constantly, and so on. If your floors are looking scratched, damaged or dull, think about sanding them down and have them refinished or simply polish your wood floors to restore their shine.

Give your garden some attention.

From painting your garden fence and your shed to cleaning out your greenhouse and adding some outdoor lighting, make sure you give your garden a little bit of an upgrade. Our team can help you with a few things to get your garden to the next level, our professional decorators can paint your garden shed, our London electricians can change your outdoor lights and our experienced plumbers can install garden taps.

Upcycle old furniture.

If you want to change up something in your home, why not upcycle some old furniture and give it a new life? In case you want to make your home look a bit different without having to upcycle any furniture, you can also simply change the furniture around.

Bring autumn inside.

Time to add some warm colours into your home, including yellows, reds, oranges and browns. Whether you want to add some leaves, candles or a couple of new pillows and blankets – anything will do! Grab a warm cup of tea and enjoy the beauty of autumn!

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

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

A flooring replacement can be a big investment and you want to make sure it lasts. Taking good care of your flooring will keep it looking great for years. Every type of flooring requires different care and maintenance. If you’ve installed beautiful new luxury vinyl plank, you’ve chosen a relatively low-maintenance option but there are still some dos and don’ts. Here are some tips for taking care of your luxury vinyl plank from the flooring contractors at Dannburg Floor Coverings in Calgary.

Do sweep and mop

Like most flooring materials, an easy way to keep them clean is sweeping and mopping on a regular basis. This will keep the plank free of dirt, crumbs, and other debris. It’s important to immediately clean any spills with a mop because it will keep your floor from staining. Sweeping and mopping will keep your luxury vinyl plank more durable throughout the years, and maintain its look. A vacuum can also take the place of a broom.

Don’t steam clean

Luxury vinyl plank is a strong, waterproof material. However, steam cleaning the plank can cause problems for the flooring. It could wear it down, warp it, or ruin the material. You will have to replace the flooring sooner or pay for repair costs. This is all perfectly avoidable. Instead, stick to sweeping and mopping, as previously mentioned.

Do avoid scratching

Though luxury vinyl plank is durable, in some cases it may scratch. There are many different things that can cause scratching on your floor, but there are also simple solutions. For example, applying felt pads onto the legs of furniture is a cost-effective way to protect your floor. Try to lift heavier furniture or put down some sort of base on top of your plank to keep it from scratching the surface. Area rugs below your furniture are also a creative way to keep the floor safe from your furniture.

Don’t clean with harsh bristles or strong chemicals

You can’t be too harsh with your luxury vinyl plank. Scrubbing your floor with something that has a bristled texture puts you at risk for scratching the floor. Go for rags or sponges that have a smoother feel. It’s also important to avoid strong chemicals. The chemicals may eat away at the finish on your floor and leave it dull or with worn marks. In some instances, it also may cause discolouring. Find a product that’s milder, or one more specifically used for luxury vinyl plank.

Flooring Companies in Calgary

Dannburg Floor Coverings have been serving Calgary and area in their floor covering needs since 1984, offering a full range of residential flooring options including carpet, hardwood, tile, laminate, luxury vinyl, and more. They have a large, beautiful showroom with a full range of products from multiple suppliers to meet all your flooring needs.

Interested? Visit Dannburg Floor Coverings today!

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

There is a nearly endless range of possibilities when it comes to designing and planning a new staircase. Besides practical function, stairs also play a key role in the décor and appeal of the home. Prestige Railings & Stairs in Calgary, a professional staircase and railing company, understand just how to help.

They share some tips and tricks for the perfect staircase design:

Plan a budget

Whether a custom staircase or standard, you want a clear budget in mind before you build. That will help keep your staircase plans in check, but it’ll also help with choosing materials. Wood spindles, for example, come in a range of wood species from cherry, walnut, mahogany, and more. Each one will come with a different price tag, so know what price range you have to work with first. That way, you’ll still get a dream staircase without compromising any parts.

Design around space and safety

Designing a staircase is exciting, but it also takes time and consideration. Part of that process should include space and safety features. If you have a smaller home, consider a spiral staircase or a half turn for an elegant, yet minimalistic design. More modern interior designs will pair well with stainless steel railings or glass panels for a more open feel. As for safety, do you have children or visiting elderly family? In that case, make sure that longer flights have a landing and higher railings. Wider stairs as well will be less steep and so easier to climb. Remember that the right design should always compliment both your home and your lifestyle.

Floating vs. traditional

Decide right away whether you want a floating or traditional designed staircase in your home. Once you know, it’ll make it easier to plan the final designs and style. Floating stairs are built to add a stunning “wow” factor. The focus on these is the materials you choose, such as wood stairs but with beautiful metal railings and turnings. It is also ideal for more modern homes, where light and air can freely pass underneath. A smaller home may likewise benefit from a floating design, where you want to maximize open spaces. Traditional staircases, however, are ageless classics that are perfect in any home. They also have the added benefit of being multifunctional. The space beneath the stairs can be cleverly used as extra storage, cupboards, or display units for extra décor appeal.

Adding colour

Once you have the layout and design picked out, it’s time to consider colours. Depending on where the new stairs will be built, there are a few different possibilities. A simple natural colour scheme will focus more on blending the stairs with the rest of the décor. That can either mean matching colours or choosing neutral, complementary ones. This works great on traditional staircases, where they are visually built into the home. For more ideas, take a look at some of these colourful and gorgeous coloured staircases. However, if you want a spark of feature colour, paint the stairs themselves a bold shade. Two-toned as well, for example, a white base with a coloured stair top will make for an attractive and striking look. For other feature touches, focus on the spindles and turnings. Colourful spindles against a neutral staircase will make for an eye-catching addition.

Stairs and Railings in Calgary

With 25 years of dedicated service and quality workmanship, Prestige Railings & Stairs is the company to call. They pride themselves on providing stairs that don’t just add function but also add great value to your home. When you invest in their professionals, your home and future staircase designs are in the best hands possible.

Contact Prestige Railings & Stairs today!

Click to Find >>>> Stairs and Railings in Calgary.

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

Handyman Connection Plumbing Professionals

Plumbing issues in your home can be serious, so it’s important to call plumbing professionals if you are experiencing a major plumbing problem in your home. However, there are some smaller plumbing repairs that you can probably handle yourself. 

Here are some plumbing repairs that you can probably handle on your own:

A Clogged Drain:

If your shower or sink are clogged, usually you can fix this issue on your own. Try using a drain snake to clean out the drain first. Drain snakes are very affordable and help to pull out any stuck hair and other gunk clogging your drain. You could also try using a natural solution to unclog your drain before using harsh chemicals. Baking soda and hot water do wonders. There are many DIY solutions that can help clean out your drains. 

A Dripping Faucet:

Luckily, a dripping faucet is usually a fairly easy fix as well and you probably won’t need to call plumbing professionals to fix this. A dripping faucet is incredibly common and has probably already happened once in your home. Usually, all you need to do is change the washer in the faucet itself, with the right household tools you can fix this yourself. 

A Running Toilet:

Another common issue is a running toilet. After you flush, does the water continue running? Try removing the tank lid, find the chain and attach it to the lever that is attached to the toilet handle. Most of the time that chain comes unattached and it’s an easy fix to do on your own. 

Here are the plumbing repairs that are best left to the plumbing professionals: 

Clogged Sewer Lines:

If your sewer line is clogged this can be a huge issue for all the plumbing in your home. It’s important to call the plumbing professionals to take a look at this and repair it, rather than you attempting it on your own. 

Sump Pump Problems:

There are many reasons why a sump pump may fail or have problems. It’s common for them to become overwhelmed or clogged. Professionals are the best for handing any repairs to your sump pump because if you aren’t careful messing up your sump pump more could cause larger issues. 

Leaky Hot Water Heater:

A leaky hot water heater is a common problem, but a problem that is best left to the plumbing professionals. There could be many different reasons why your water heater is leaking so it’s important to have the professionals evaluate what may be causing the problem and how to fix it. 

Plumbing Problems in your Home? Call Handyman Connection. 

If you need help with any plumbing problem in your home Handyman Connection is happy to help. Call or text your local Handyman Connection office and one of our skilled craftsmen can address all your plumbing needs. Fill out our quote form here.

The post Plumbing Problems? When You Should Call Plumbing Professionals appeared first on Handyman Connection.

Eavestroughs, soffits, fascia, and flashing, all work together to protect your home. But have you stopped to think about what steps to take to protect them? At Modern Renovations in Winnipeg, an exterior renovations company, they understand the importance of protecting your home.

They share the steps you can take to help protect those four essential areas on your home’s exterior:

Eavestroughs: cleaning and gutter guards

Eavestroughs play a key overall role in protecting the structure of your home. They redirect water away from the roof and foundation and help prevent severe water damage. Without them, flooding could happen, and mould, moisture, and rot would quickly develop. However, eavestroughs need regular maintenance and protection of their own. Clogs, leaks, and debris will quickly affect the eavestroughs integrity if not properly maintained and cleaned. Hire a professional to annually inspect and clean the eavestroughs to keep them in working condition. Other protection, such as Alu-Rex gutter guards, is highly effective at keeping debris out and redirecting water away from your home.

Roof, windows, and doors: flashing and finishes

Flashing is a waterproof material that is installed into the seams and joints of a roof. It helps to seal the roof against water leaks and redirects rainwater to the gutters. On the roof, flashing is installed around chimneys, skylights, dormer walls, or anywhere where there might be a seam. These help both secure the roof joints and redirect water away and into the gutters. If you suspect a leak, make sure you know the signs and how to deal with one.

Windows and doors also have flashing and finishes installed for added water protection. The flashing prevents rain from blowing in at an angle and getting into the seams. Finishes, such as cladding, help maintain the integrity of the frame. Without them, weather wear or damage can easily occur and cause costly repairs. To keep your flashing and finishes in top condition, hire a professional to inspect them. If there are signs of wear or damage, take the time to have them professionally repaired or replaced.

Soffits: proper ventilation 

Ventilation is essential in a house overall, but especially so in the attic. Without it, heat will stay trapped and in the summer will push up those cooling bills. In the winter, that same trapped heat will increase moisture, which can cause interior water damage. Melted snow from a poorly insulated and ventilated attic can also lead to the formation of ice dams and cause damage to the roof.

Soffit vents, however, ensure this doesn’t happen. They are installed beneath the soffit and help draw cold, fresh air into the attic. Ridge vents are one of the most cost-effect attic vents, especially when paired with soffit vents. Together, cold air is drawn in, and hot air pushed out, effectively keeping your home safe and cool.

Fascia boards: metal protection

Like flashing, fascia boards act as a trim installed between the roofline and the exterior walls. The main purpose is to prevent any moisture or water from getting into the roof and causing interior water damage. They also play a role aesthetically by giving your home a sleeker appearance. Because fascia boards are exposed to the elements and various weather, you want a durable material to protect them. Wood and metal are the most popular choices, but metal offers superior benefits. If you have wood fascia, had a professional cover them with metal to protect against weather damage. That way, your fascia will have a longer lifespan and never need repainting or risk rotting.

Exterior Renovations in Winnipeg

Modern Renovations prides itself on providing top-quality exterior services and help for your home. They offer a wide range of installations including eavestrough, gutter guard, roofing, all types of siding, and much more. Whatever exterior renovation you need, they are the company to call.

Contact Modern Renovations today!

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

With both kitchens and bathrooms offering a high ROI, it can be hard to know which one to renovate first. Kitchens are referred to as the heart of a home, but bathrooms are essential too. When it comes time to decide, consider both your home’s needs and your lifestyle.

Talee Renovations in Calgary is a professional remodeling company for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. They share some questions to ask yourself to help you decide where to start those renovations:

What’s your budget? 

The cost for a kitchen vs a bathroom renovation will be quite different, especially if it’s a luxury renovation compared to a mid-range. According to Remodeling Magazine’s cost vs value, an average mid-range kitchen remodel will cost $68,490 and recoup 58%. A mid-range bathroom remodel will average $21,377 and recoup 64%. Both will regain a lot of the cost and add significant value to the house, but your budget will play a deciding role. If both rooms need remodeling, then consider a more cost-effective minor renovation and focus on specific changes. Repaint worn kitchen cabinets, add a new tiled backsplash or resurface the floors to make everything look brand at a lower price.

What will take longer?  

Keep in mind that while the bathroom or kitchen is being renovated, you likely won’t have access to the room. If you have other bathrooms in your home, that may not be as big a disruption as the kitchen. Remodeling a kitchen also takes longer than a bathroom. Depending on the scale of work, it may take at least two months to do. Take the time to plan where and how you will eat while the work is being done. If you work from home, that may take more planning than being away most of the day at an office. If the timeline just doesn’t work, start with a bathroom remodel and focus on the kitchen later or see what can be DIYed. 

Where do you spend the most time? 

If remodeling isn’t for resale value but a lifestyle change, then focus on your own needs and what ou want. Is it cooking, entertaining around the island, or enjoying a spa day in the bathroom? Whatever it is, choose your renovations to accommodate those enjoyments.

You can also focus the renovations on what is lacking, such as more counter space or an updated shower. Once you decide, make sure to choose value-boosting materials. For example, quartz is a favourite among homeowners and a very durable material for countertops. At the same time, luxury vinyl tiles are an attractive and valuable choice for flooring.

Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations in Calgary 

Talee Renovations pride themselves on taking personal care into each project that they handle. Safety, quality work, and long-term value are always guaranteed when you work with them. They offer beautiful kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodels for your home with guaranteed satisfaction.

 Contact Talee Renovations today!

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