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Adding a legal suite to your basement is a great way to earn extra income with tenants. Even if you don’t rent right away, that suite can be used for visiting family or as a space for adult kids to move into. Creating an appealing legal suite requires planning and specific requirements.

Dastjerdi Ltd. in Ottawa is a professional general contractor company. They share what you need to consider when turning your basement into a legal suite:

Know the legalities

Before starting any plans or renovations, you must know what the city requires to build a legal basement suite. You can read what is needed to add a secondary dwelling to your home in Ottawa.

For example, the suite must have 145 square feet of space with 1.95 meters of ceiling height. It must also have heating, cooling and electrical systems that an Electrical Safety Authority electrician has approved. Dastjerdi Ltd. has licenced trades on staff including a licenced plumber and electrician. 

In addition, it must have egress windows that can be used as a means of escape if needed and a second escape means. Ensure a fire-rated ceiling, including fire-rated beams and posts for fire safety. A fire-rated wall or ceiling is designed to resist the impact of a fire for a given period and is essential to protecting both the lower and upper unit.

If you have questions about any requirements, Dastjerdi is happy to help. Working with a general contractor ensures that these specifications are all met before and during your basement suite renovation.

Install a full kitchen

A smaller kitchenette may work if you plan to use the suite for visiting friends or family but not for renters. When designing a rental suite, you want to incorporate a full kitchen and one that includes a dishwasher. That appeals much more to potential renters who can enjoy a comfortable living space without sacrificing function. If there is space for a small kitchen island, that can help add to the visual appeal, but don’t make the kitchen too dominant in size. You still need room for a living room and dining space, so plan according to the layout.

Include a shower and bath

When planning the bathroom, don’t skimp on certain details. For example, while the two don’t have to be separate, having just a shower or just a tub isn’t an ideal setup. One or the other is preferred for some, so having a tub-shower combination is the best option. That way, you can appeal to every preference and appeal to more quality tenants. 

Keep it an open concept

If you have the flexibility in your basement, opt for an open layout concept. Basements can feel smaller and darker with closed-in rooms. Therefore, consider opening things up and placing windows in every space. It creates a sense of spaciousness, makes the area look bigger and maximizes lighting. It also leaves more room and space for renters to customize where they want to set up furniture or organize their space. A general contractor can also help ensure the kitchen fits into an open layout and maximize both natural and electric lighting. 

Add some unique appeal

If you have the budget and the space, consider adding some unique basement suite features. Heated flooring, for example, is an excellent addition in a basement where the floors can get cold. A gas fireplace will certainly help with warmth and add a great visual feature to the space. If you need ideas in the given layout, talk with your general contractor and get their expertise and input on some options.

General Contractors in Ottawa

Dastjerdi Ltd. brings over 10 years of experience in renovations and home improvement projects. They can help you design and build legal basement suites and other renovations, including bathrooms, kitchens, and more. If you want to develop the basement or improve your home, trust the professionals at Dastjerdi Ltd. 

Contact Dastjerdi Ltd. today!

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

Are you thinking about starting a renovation project in your basement? If yes, then you might want to consider hiring a professional craftsman who has experience working with basements.

Basements are often neglected spaces in homes. They tend to get dirty over time and become dark and damp. This makes them uncomfortable places to live. Basements also pose some unique challenges such as poor drainage, uneven floors, and low ceilings.

A properly planned basement remodeling job can transform your home into a comfortable space. In addition, it can increase its value. The key to a successful basement remodel is to hire a qualified contractor who knows what he or she is doing.

If you’re looking for a reputable craftsman who specializes in basement remodels, here are five things that you should look for:

1. Experience

The best craftspeople have years of experience under their belts. You need someone who understands the ins and outs of basement remodeling.

2. Knowledgeable

You don’t just want a general contractor; you want one who is knowledgeable about specific aspects of basement remodeling. For example, if you plan on installing a new heating system, make sure that the contractor you choose is familiar with this type of equipment.

3. Reputable

A good craftsman will be able to provide references from past customers. Ask for these references before signing any contracts.

4. Professionalism

Professionalism goes beyond being courteous. A good contractor will always treat his or her clients with respect and courtesy.

5. Integrity

This may seem like a no-brainer but you really do not want a contractor who cheats his or her clients out of money. Make sure that the contractor you hire is trustworthy.

These tips will help you find a reliable contractor who specializes in basement renovations. Once you find him or her, ask plenty of questions so that you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact Handyman Connection to schedule a free home improvement estimate. Call or text your local office if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services.

The post <strong>5 Things to Consider When Hiring a Professional for a Basement Remodel</strong> appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

As fall approaches, it’s time to start thinking about fall home maintenance. Completing repairs and maintenance tasks that help prepare and protect your home during the winter is critical. Things like gutter cleaning, sealing windows, checking the exterior and making interior repairs are something a handyman service can help with.

Madaflo Craftman in Edmonton is a professional handyman company. Here are some things they can help you with this fall:

Caulking inside and out

Once the cold weather sets in outside and the furnace kicks on, you don’t want to lose that hot air. If you have air leaks, caulking around interior windows and doors will help reduce those drafts. However, old caulking must first be removed before new caulking can be placed, which a handyman can quickly handle.

Inside the home, caulking is necessary around sinks, in the shower, and along countertops. If your existing caulking has gaps, is peeling or cracking, those areas are susceptible to water damage. A handyman can remove the old caulking and apply new. They’ll ensure it’s done flawlessly and protect those areas from moisture. 

Patch up the drywall

Seasonal drywall cracks can occur when temperature changes, such as humidity, cause the wall to expand and drywall contract. It’s important to address those repairs before the winter sets in and causes more problems. Aside from not being aesthetic, big cracks can cause chips in the paint and invite space for moisture and mould growth. Those holes can also create gaps for hot air to escape and cold air to get in. A handyman can handle the repairs and ensure your home is protected and sealed for the winter.

Clean the eavestroughs

Clearing out your eavestrough of any leaves or debris is especially important before the snow starts falling. Failing to clear the eavestroughs can cause the water and debris to freeze and damage your gutters. Also, if you get a build-up in the eavestroughs, it can prevent snow and water from running off the roof. As the water pools, it seeps into the roof instead and causes costly water damage to the interior. A handyman has the right tools and experience to safely clean the eavestrough to ensure your home has proper drainage this winter and next spring. If any minor repairs are needed, they can also take care of that.

Handyman Services in Edmonton

When it comes to home improvement projects with a quality touch, Madaflo Craftman provides just that. From complete home improvement, kitchen and bathroom renovations, deck and patio construction, home repairs and maintenance, they can help.

Contact Madalfo Craftman today!

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

Commercial renovations are complex projects that require the expertise of a knowledgeable general contractor. This contractor must have experience working in your sector and a track record of successful projects. However, there are other essential qualities that you should look for when hiring a commercial renovation company for your renovation.

Chalex Construction in Edmonton is an experienced commercial renovation company with more than 36 years of industry experience. They recommend 4 qualities to look for when hiring a commercial contractor.

1. Clear communication

You must hire a commercial general contractor with excellent communication skills. After all, you will be in close contact with your contractor throughout the renovation process. So it is of paramount importance that you two can communicate clearly and honestly. You want your contractor to understand your needs, and you want to understand what your contractor is doing.

The top commercial renovation companies, like Chalex Construction, practice clear, honest, and prompt communication. They will keep you updated on progress, deliver ideas logically, answer your questions, and be easy to get in touch with. 

2. Transparency

It’s impossible (and unwise) to trust a dishonest contractor. When you work with a commercial renovation company, you want to know that they will be upfront and transparent about the progress of your project. Most renovations will face some complications or delays. Therefore, how your contractor deals with these unforeseen obstacles is critically essential. Do they offer excuses or solve the problem quickly and effectively? Worse, do they try to cover up the issue? Above all, your contractor must demonstrate their trustworthiness throughout the entire renovation.

3. Quality first

Your commercial general contractor must also be committed to quality. You don’t want anyone cutting corners, using cheap materials, or compromising safety! Without quality materials and installation, your renovations will look shabby and rushed. Furthermore, it won’t stand the test of time. When your contractor prioritizes quality first, the results are far better. Not only will your newly renovated space look impressive, but it will be durable and longer lasting. You won’t be forced to renovate again anytime soon due to poor quality construction or cheap materials.

4. Highly organized

Renovations are complicated. Budget constraints, large teams, many suppliers, important deadlines, and unexpected hurdles exist. You need a commercial contractor with the experience and knowledge to manage these complexities. They must have project management experience and effective organizational systems to plan, coordinate, and oversee every aspect of your renovation project.

Commercial Renovations in Edmonton

Chalex Construction provides exceptional commercial and institutional renovation services to clients in Edmonton. They are committed to delivering quality results alongside excellent customer service. Furthermore, they pride themselves on their honest and transparent communication skills. So when you hire Chalex Construction for your renovation project, you know the job will be done right the first time.

Contact Chalex Construction today!

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

Football season is around the corner, which means now is a great time to mount a TV for the ultimate game-watching experience for your family and friends.

Here are some tips that will help you when it’s time to mount a TV:

1. Measure the space where you plan to place your TV. Make sure there’s enough room for the TV stand, cables, and other equipment.
2. Find out if the wall has any electrical outlets nearby. You can use an extension cord to power your TV.
3. Determine how high you want to hang your TV. It should be as close to eye level as possible.
4. Decide whether you want to buy a new TV stand or get one from a store. A good quality stand will last for years.
5. Consider buying a universal TV bracket so you won’t need to purchase multiple brackets for different TVs.
6. Use proper tools to mount your TV. Screws and nails are not recommended because they may damage walls.
7. Be careful while drilling holes in walls. Avoid hitting pipes or wires inside the wall.
8. Don’t drill too many holes in the wall. Leave at least 2 inches between each hole.
9. When screwing the TV to the wall, make sure to keep the screws away from electrical outlets.
10. Keep all cords and wires away from the back of the TV.
11. Before hanging your TV, check the connections. Turn off the TV and remove the antenna. Then turn on the TV again. If everything works fine, you’re ready to go!
12. After you mount a TV, test its connection by turning on the TV. If there are no problems, then you’re done!
13. Clean up the area after mounting your TV. Remove excess screws and glue.
14. Finally, enjoy watching your favorite team!

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact Handyman Connection to schedule a free home improvement estimate. Call or text your local office if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services.

The post How to Mount a TV in Preparation for Football Season appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

There are many reasons why you may want to make your home more energy-efficient. For example, maybe you’re trying to lower your utility bills, save money and reduce your impact on the environment. No matter your motivations, there is a long list of possible swaps and upgrades to maximize your home’s energy efficiency. Your local electrician can help. They can install new systems and recommend energy-efficient alternatives.

Westland Electric in Calgary has the knowledge and experience to make your home more energy-efficient. Here are some tips and ideas:

1. Upgrade your electrical panel

Does your home have an old fuse box? Fuse boxes have long gone the way of the dinosaur. All electrical panels need to be replaced every 25-40 years, so if you still have a fuse box, it’s time to upgrade. A new electrical panel is safer and far more energy-efficient. Moreover, it’s better equipped to meet the energy demands of your modern home.

2. Replace old wiring

Old wiring can be a hazard. For example, aluminum wiring is very dangerous if not properly retrofitted. It’s also not very energy-efficient. As wires decay, your home will experience electrical leaks, leading to soaring energy bills. Your electrician will be able to recommend the best upgrades and repairs following an inspection of your home.

3. Energy-efficient lighting

Your electrician can help you make the switch to more energy-efficient lighting. For example, you can swap out your existing halogen or CFL lighting with LEDs. LED lighting is far more energy-efficient. Plus, LED bulbs last five times longer than halogen.

4. Install new appliances

Modern appliances are significantly more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. Consequently, upgrading your appliances can have a significant impact on the overall energy efficiency of your home. Some eco-friendly appliances require professional installation, which your electrician at Westland Electrical will be more than happy to do for you!

5. Switch to a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is an easy way to take advantage of some energy savings. You can program your daily routines into your new thermostat to automatically reduce energy usage while you’re sleeping or away.

6. Install solar panels

Your electrician can help you go green with renewable energy. Installing solar panels gives you an alternative form of clean energy, which you can use to sublimate the energy you get from the grid. Consequently, this independent energy source lowers your monthly utility bills. Learn how you can use solar energy to power your home.

7. Regular electrical maintenance

Regular electrical maintenance is critically essential for the safety of you, your family, and your property. Faulty wiring, decaying seals, and other forms of damage can develop over time and lead to electrical wires or electrocution. However, professional electrical inspections are also crucial to having an energy-efficient home. After all, normal wear and tear make your home’s electrical system becomes less efficient over time. Your electrician can perform necessary upkeep and upgrades as needed.

Electrician in Calgary

Westland Electric in Calgary is a team of experienced residential, commercial, and industrial electricians. They offer electrical repairs, wiring, upgrades, and other electrical services across Calgary. So whether you want to make your home greener or need repairs following a disaster, Westland Electric can help.

Contact Westland Electric today!

Click To Find >>>>> Electrician in Calgary

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

BLUE ASH, Ohio – Qualified Remodeler, a leading publication serving remodelers and home improvement companies in the U.S., has ranked Handyman Connection, America’s premier home improvement franchise for professional and reliable handyman services, as No. 71 on its 44th annual TOP 500 remodelers of 2022. The brand was also listed as the top performer in the handyman category and ranked as the No. 7 national remodeler based on total remodeling revenue. Since 1978, the QR TOP 500 has tracked the industry’s largest and fastest growing companies. In 2022, the TOP 500 represented over $16 billion in remodeling sales volume and nearly two million jobs.

Handyman Connection was chosen as a 2022 Top 500 remodeler by the Qualified Remodeler editorial staff for meeting a set of criteria including: installed remodeling dollar volume, total years in business, industry association membership, industry certification, industry awards and community service.

“This award is viewed a huge win for the Handyman Connection team as we continue to set a leading example within the home-improvement industry,” said Jeff Wall. “Our high-quality reputation at the local level continues to speak for itself through client testimonials, but we are very grateful for this type of national recognition, especially from a publication as reputable as Qualified Remodeler.”

Handyman Connection services a variety of home improvement and repair needs from carpentry, flooring, and electrical work to painting, plumbing, and remodeling. Even if Handyman Connection can’t provide a specific service for any reason, the brand’s expansive network of local craftsmen allows them to refer one who can get the job done right. Handyman Connection’s core values of delivering on its commitments, respecting its connections, practicing continuous improvement, and having pride in what they do has allowed the brand to uphold its set standard of quality assurance for more than three decades.

“Based on Qualified Remodeler’s analysis, the Top 500 firms tend to share several common attributes, including strong revenues, a commitment to customer service, insightful sales techniques and strong customer loyalty,” says Qualified Remodeler owner and editorial director, Patrick O’Toole. “These attributes helped put the firms on this list and contribute to their success.”

Additional information on the Top 500 can be found in the July/August issue of Qualified Remodeler and at www.qualifiedremodeler.com.

For more information about Handyman Connection or its franchising opportunity, please visit https://franchiseopportunity.handymanconnection.com.

About Handyman Connection

Ranked as the #1 Handyman Company by Qualified Remodeler for the past 11 years, Handyman Connection operates in more than 60 locations throughout 25 states and Canada. Since 1991, the brand has offered homeowners across North America a complete resource for professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Handyman Connection provides over 430+ different services ranging from traditional home repairs and painting to remodeling, plumbing, electrical work, and more. Each local office is supported by a team of qualified craftspeople and is always seeking talented professionals to join them in helping customers improve their homes. For more information, please go to https://handymanconnection.com.

The post HANDYMAN CONNECTION NAMED TO QUALIFIED REMODELER TOP 500 FOR 2022 appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

There are a few ways to add electrical value, from simple changes like LED bulbs to optimizing the wiring layout. Of course, DIY electrical work isn’t a safe route, so always call a professional. With their help, those changes will be lasting and tailored to your home. 

Emanuel Electrical Inc. in Coquitlam is a professional electrical company. They share how their team can add value to your home:

Install GFCI’s

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters help keep your home safe against electrical surges and potential fires. If you own an older home, it may not have the proper grounding outlets. These outlets are designed to turn off any electrical power in case a ground fault happens. Bathrooms, kitchens, or any areas around water must have GFCIs. 

Upgrade the service panel

This upgrade can be done in any home and is a sure way to add value. Outdated panels don’t have the necessary power or safety features to keep your home safe. A new panel eliminates the risk of electrical shocks, ensures proper electrical load capacity, and boosts resale value. In addition, an upgraded panel will last for years and lets potential buyers know that the home won’t need sudden electrical repairs.

In addition, you must label the panel correctly. Labelling the panel properly is not only a code requirement, but also adds safety and convenience when breaker’s trip or when servicing any part of a branch circuit.

Install outdoor lighting

In addition to adding aesthetic value to your property, outdoor lighting adds value and safety. It can highlight specific design elements like home architecture or landscaping, adding to the curb appeal. Safety-wise, a lit outdoor area keeps your home and self much more secure. There won’t be any tripping hazards along pathways, and potential intruders will be deterred from trying to break in.

Change to LED bulbs

This simple change adds value to your home and cuts down those monthly bills. LED bulbs have a longer lifespan, better energy efficiency, and no heat or UV emissions. Compared to other bulbs, these can last for six to 12 years before needing to be replaced. Efficiency-wise, these are 60% to 70% more efficient which helps cut down utility costs and provides better lighting. 

Rework the electrical system

Sometimes a complete electrical rework of your home is the best way to restore value and function. That is especially true if your home has outdated knob and tube wiring. These have no ground wiring, which increases the risk of electrical fires and shocks. Reworking the electrical system can also improve your lighting layout, adding value, function, and comfort. 

Electricians in Coquitlam

Emanuel Electrical Inc. provides professional and detailed electrical work. Their team guarantees that your home improves the value, safety, and long-lasting quality you need. With their support, you can rest easy knowing your home is secure and your monthly bills are down.

Contact Emanuel Electrical Inc. today!

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

Does your bathroom need a facelift? You’re only one call away from building the bathroom of your dreams. A general contractor will be able to transform your nightmare of an outdated bathroom into a beautiful oasis that suits your personality and lifestyle. As you get ready to start your bathroom remodel, consider the following top tips.

Cleland Contracting Inc in Calgary is your locally-owned and family-run team of renovation experts.

1. Make sure the new layout works with the existing placement of pipes

Although this isn’t a requirement, it is a helpful idea. If you change your bathroom’s layout too dramatically, you’ll likely have to move pipes around… which can be labour-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive. Consequently, it’s best to do your best to work with the existing layout. In addition, keeping the major fixtures in the same place will help your bathroom remodel go smoothly.

2. Choose easy-to-clean materials

You should always consider maintenance when choosing materials. The harder something is to clean, the more time you’ll spend cleaning it. While bathrooms aren’t forced to endure the same level of mess as a kitchen, they still get dirty and need to be cleaned regularly. 

You can do a few things to make your bathroom easier to clean. For example, opting for larger tiles means less grout, which means less grout to clean. You should also use a grout sealant to preserve its appearance for as long as possible. Porcelain is also a low-maintenance tile option.

3. Don’t be afraid to add some personality

Remember, you don’t have to go the route of a white, minimal, and sterile bathroom. Instead, the bathroom can be the perfect place to get a little creative and add a punch of personality. In fact, there are several compelling reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid to get fun with your bathroom design.

Firstly, bathrooms make up a small area of your home. They’re also separate from the other rooms. This isolation makes them the ideal place to get a bit experimental. Additionally, you’re not exposed to your bathroom as frequently as your kitchen. Visits are shorter, so you can be bold with your design decisions.

4. Always hire a professional general contractor

The best thing you can do to ensure a smooth and successful bathroom renovation is to hire an experienced general contractor. Their knowledge and guidance will prove invaluable throughout your remodel. General contractors also serve as a single point of contact between you and the rest of the renovation team. You won’t have to worry about trying to coordinate the plumber, electrician, painter, etc. Plus, your contractor will enforce quality control.

Bathroom Renovations in Calgary

The team at Cleland Contracting Inc is ready to help you transform your home. They are experts in whole home renovations, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, and they’re basement developers. Additionally, they are skilled carpenters capable of building you an incredible deck and fence. No matter the type or size of your project, Cleland Contracting delivers quality workmanship and excellent customer service.

Contact Cleland Contracting Inc today!

Click To Find >>>>> Bathroom Renovations in Calgary

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

There are many DIY opportunities around your home; however, your roof is not one of them. Professional expertise is required for all roofing installations and repairs. After all, a poorly installed and maintained roof will fail to keep your home safe from the elements. If your roof develops leaks, it can compromise the structural integrity of your house and result in a hefty repair bill. Moreover, roof installation and repair are dangerous without the proper training.

A.P.E. Exteriors in Edmonton are your local roofing experts.

1. Experience and knowledge

Professional roofing companies have installed, repaired, and replaced countless roofs. They have the experience to get the job done right! In addition, they have undergone all necessary training and will use the best practices for your roof. Professional roofers also understand how your entire roofing system works. This allows them to implement creative solutions and identify developing issues long before they become serious problems. Because they can accurately diagnose your roof, they can recommend when it’s time to replace it.

2. Safety

Roofing can be dangerous- especially if you don’t know what you’re doing! This is another reason why leaving all roofing projects to professionals is so important. Attempting to DIY your own roof might result in an accident and potential injury. Homeowners simply do not have the proper safety training to install or repair their own roofs. On the other hand, professional roofers follow established safety protocols, have the proper safety equipment, and have experience working on various slopes.

3. Faster installation and repair

Experienced roofing companies complete projects faster than amateurs or untrained homeowners. When you leave roofing to the pros, installations and repairs get done far more efficiently. This frees up your time to do the things you actually enjoy. Furthermore, your project becomes more cost-effective when you hire experts. Amateurs lack the experience to work quickly and are likelier to make mistakes. Ultimately, these mistakes push deadlines and raise labour costs.

4. Equipment

Roofing often requires a wide range of equipment and safety gear. You’re unlikely to find all the equipment you need within your toolshed. Without the right tools, roofing projects can drag on and on. Plus, the end result just won’t be as good. A high-quality roof requires equipment, skill, knowledge, and experience.

5. Quality workmanship

If you want a high-quality roof that looks great and stands the test of time, hire a professional roofing company like A.P.E. Exteriors. Roofs are responsible for shielding your home from the elements and play an essential role in curb appeal. As a result, you do not want to skimp when it comes to your home’s roof. It’s vital that your roof installation and any repairs are high quality. This ensures durability and longevity.

Roofing in Edmonton

A.P.E. Exteriors specialize in new roof installation, repairs, and maintenance. They offer affordable roofing solutions to suit any budget! No matter the size of your project, you can rest assured that you will receive outstanding workmanship and customer service.

Contact A.P.E. Exteriors today!

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