A dedicated study space is a great way to create a homework environment for your children. It can take a few hours or days to set up depending on the size and scope of the room you want, but it’s never too late to create one.

Here’s what you need:

1.  Desk/Table — desks make sure your computer is at eye level and preferably out of arm’s reach. Tables don’t usually provide as much space as desks since they’re not always horizontal, but for those with smaller rooms, that might be the only option available.

2.  Shelves — while you don’t need full-on bookshelves, some space for important books, papers, or other supplies will help organize your room.

3.  Lighting — natural light is best whenever possible, but you’ll want the options available to use artificial lights when it’s dark outside.

4.  Photos/artwork — decorating helps bring personality into the room. You can even use old photos or artwork from your travels to make it feel more like home.

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 Create a Study Space in Your Home appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Are you getting the most out of your yard? If the answer is no, then a deck might be just what you need to create an exciting and enticing outdoor space. A place where you love to spend time, where you can gather with friends and family, or where you can relax in the fresh air. Decks are perfect for increasing the liveable and functional space on your property. Plus, decks provide an extra living room and maximize your yard’s potential.

Decks are customizable to your lifestyle and property. There are no limits to what you can create with a professional deck builder! Edmonton homeowners and businesses can choose from various materials and styles to design their dream deck. Many deck building companies also offer other carpentry services, such as pergolas and fences.

Consider one of these deck-building companies in Edmonton listed below for your new deck. First, you can learn about the advantages and disadvantages of the different decking materials.

Guide to decking materials

Wood

Wood is a classic decking material with a long history. Even in the modern world, with synthetic and composite products available, many homeowners still choose wood for their decks.

Pros

Wood is aesthetically beautiful. So much so that many composites, vinyl, and synthetic deck materials mimic the look of wood! However, these are no match for the real thing. The authentic look and rustic warmth of real wood are unparalleled. Additionally, you can stain or paint wood to different hues for widely varying looks.

Wood is an economical option. Many wood varieties are considerably more affordable than composites, sometimes costing half as much. Pressure-treated wood is the most budget-friendly decking material.

Wood is also highly customizable. It’s easy to cut and rearrange to suit new layouts and styles. This also means installation costs can be lower since it is easy to work with and modify.

Lastly, high-quality hardwood can last for many decades when properly cared for.

Cons

All wood decking requires regular maintenance. While you can ignore other materials, you must maintain wood to prevent rot and discolouration. For example, you have to reseal and restrain your wood deck every 1-2 years. Otherwise, you’re likely to encounter moisture damage and a withering appearance. All in all, upkeeping a wood deck can be time-consuming and expensive.

Timber is not created equal. Whereas some wood varieties are durable and long-lasting, others don’t last long. Cheap wood only lasts 10 years- even if properly maintained. High-quality, premium hardwood lasts longer but is more expensive.

Composite

Composite decking is made of recycled wood pulp (sawdust) and plastic. It is moulded into longboards that are designed to look like timber.

Pros

The main advantage of composite decks is their longevity and durability. They last for many decades without weathering, cracking, or splitting.

Composite decks do not need to be stained, treated, or have protective coatings applied. In fact, they require essentially no maintenance besides the occasional sweep or wash. As a result, they maintain their attractive appearance year after year!

Finally, composite decks are available in a range of colours and textures. This allows you to customize your deck to suit your personal taste and yard. The options are endless.

Cons

Composite decks are more expensive. Although you won’t have to spend money to maintain it, you will pay more upfront. Additionally, composite decks don’t necessarily add more value to your home than wood.

The colour of composite decks is permanent, so you can’t change your mind later on. And while composite decks are durable, their colour can fade after prolonged exposure to UV rays.

Repairing a composite deck can be difficult. Scratches and deep gouges ruin the aesthetic of your deck. Because it’s hard to replace individual composite deck boards, you may need to replace a larger section or your entire deck.

Vinyl (PVC)

Vinyl or PVC is a synthetic decking material becoming increasingly popular for residential and commercial properties.

Pros

PVC is incredibly durable. It’s resistant to pests, mould, and mildew. Additionally, vinyl decks are entirely waterproof. So you never have to worry about rot! Furthermore, PVC is less likely to fade in the sun than composite. It also withstands scratches better than composite.

It’s also low-maintenance. You never have to repaint or re-stain vinyl. Once installed, you can forget about upkeep and focus purely on enjoying. Simply clean periodically!

Lastly, vinyl is available in various colours, textures, sizes, and styles. It’s entirely customizable to your home or property! Some types of vinyl resemble timber, while others have their own unique, upscale look.

Cons

PVC is the most expensive decking option. The initial cost is significant. However, many vinyl decks come with lifetime warranties.

Here are the 5 best deck builders in Edmonton, in no particular order. They are RenovationFind certified and have a proven reputation for honesty, quality products, excellent customer service and professional work.

1. Renomaster Exteriors Ltd.

Renomaster Exteriors are a locally owned and operated deck builder. Edmonton residential and commercial property owners look to them for quality craftsmanship, trustworthy service, and industry knowledge. In fact, they offer a top-quality workmanship guarantee! Beyond decks, Renomaster Exteriors build a variety of custom wood and composite features. These include sunrooms, gazebos, pergolas, and privacy walls. For larger renovations, they work with architects and designers to create functional and beautiful structures.

Additionally, they offer other exterior renovation services, such as siding and stone application, windows, doors, soffit and fascia. Renomaster Exteriors are there with you no matter the project from start to finish. Their end-to-end client experience includes everything from budgeting to building with perfect communication.

Key Services 

– Deck building services for residential and commercial clients
– Custom sunrooms, gazebos, pergolas, and privacy walls
– Exterior construction and renovation company
– Offer a wide range of materials, including treated wood, PVC, and composite
– Other services include: siding and stone application, windows, doors, soffit and fascia

Customer Feedback

Renomasters provided a quick and easy on site consult and then quote followed shortly thereafter. We chose them based on previous reviews and experiences they had shared on their social media and website. We are very satisfied with our final product. They provided excellent service, quality craftsmanship and were very professional. Our neighbours have complimented us on our pergola and we really believe it makes our deck stand out. We recommend them to everyone. Thank you again!

– Mehul, Google

2. Chephren Building Solutions Inc.

Chephren Building Solutions specialize in waterproofing solutions for decks, balconies, and flat roofs. They are an authorized dealer and distributor for Duradek Vinyl and Flexstone Liquid Coating Systems. These solutions are top of the line, durable, environmentally friendly, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing. Chephren Building Solutions build custom decks using vinyl as well as hardwood. Additionally, they install aluminum, glass, and metal deck railings. They are a competent and confident deck builder. Edmonton clients are given an installation and manufacturer warranty on all projects. Chephren Building Solutions always stand behind its products and workmanship.

Key Services 

– Deck building services for residential and commercial clients
– Specialize in flat roof treatments, garage floor coatings, and exterior waterproofing
– Professionally trained installers
– Waterproof vinyl decks with Flexstone coating systems
– Offer a wide range of materials, including Duradek™ Vinyl and Kayu Hardwood
– Installation and manufacturer warranties

Customer Feedback

My wife and I were in bad need of deck repair and contacted Chephren Building Solutions in Edmonton. It was September and every company we spoke to was too busy to help us. When we spoke to Dean Spahic at Chephren he was incredibly helpful. We discussed Duradek and Flexstone and decided to use the Flexstone product. Dean and his crews were all working overtime on large projects that had to be finished before the cold weather set in so he set me up so that I could do the work myself. Dean stepped me through each phase of the project answering my phone calls and giving me encouragement. The deck was beautiful when we were finished and Dean was as happy as we were. It is rare that you meet someone as helpful and caring as this man. I would highly recommend Chephren and trust Dean with any project.

– Glenn, Google

3. Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railing Ltd.

Are you looking for a deck builder? Edmonton-based Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railing provides high-quality and long-lasting deck solutions. They are an authorized dealer of Weatherdek decking products, which are virtually maintenance-free and completely waterproof. Besides being strong and durable, they also come in different patterns, textures, colours, and thicknesses. They are perfect for Edmonton weather- able to withstand the harsh winters and resist UV rays in the summer. Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railing also provides powder-coated welded aluminum rails, ideal for Alberta’s climate. These railings are 40 times stronger than wood and resist heat, corrosion, abrasion, impact, and fading. Finally, Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railing backs up all installations with a 1-year installation warranty, and a 5-10 year manufacturer’s warranty.

Key Services 

– Deck building services for residential and commercial clients
– Specialize in Weatherdek decks, which are maintenance-free and waterproof
– Supply custom-made powder-coated welded aluminum rails
– 5-10 year product warranties plus 1-year installation warranty
– Free estimates

Customer Feedback

These guys do great work, I was referred to Alberta Vinyl by a friend who recently had his whole deck done by them. I just needed to get some railings for my new deck, so I called. Ajdin came the next day to do the measurements. That day I was able to pick out the exact setup and colour that I wanted, then received an quote on the spot. About 1 week later I came home and the railings were installed perfectly. The work is amazing, the product is great, and the price is very reasonable! A+

– Mike, Google

4. Custom Edge Carpentry Inc.

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Custom Edge Carpentry is your local railing and deck builder. Edmonton-owned, they provide Trex composite decking solutions for homeowners and businesses that are maintenance-free, attractive, and more durable than wood. You don’t have to worry about rotting or cracking! Additionally, Custom Edge Carpentry builds beautiful wood pergolas, commonly using douglas fir or cedar. These are installed in a couple days and instantly add more living space to your yard. Custom Edge Carpentry also offers fencing, privacy screens, and detached garages. Furthermore, their railings come in aluminum and glass for a modern aesthetic. Clients can choose to pay for any product in monthly instalments.

Key Services 

– Deck building services for residential and commercial clients
– Custom wood pergolas
– Specialize in Trex Pro Composite decks
– Install privacy screens and walls
– Supply aluminum and glass railings
– Financing options are available

Customer Feedback

The quality of Custom Edge is second to none, they won’t sacrifice quality or cut corners just to get the job done. Their work is meticulously crafted and detailed from start to finish. Was indecisive about wood over composite and once they showed me their Trex product the decision was easy!

– Ryan, Google

5. Elite Decking Ltd.

Elite Decking brings attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship to every one of their construction projects. They specialize in decks and fencing, offering a range of deck materials to their residential and commercial clients. For example, they carry AZEK® Deck Boards as a low-maintenance decking solution. These PVC decks resemble wood- only with greater durability and longevity. However, Elite Decking also supplies composite and wood decks.

Additionally, they provide deck waterproofing using the non-toxic coating, Moisture Shield. Elite Decking also builds custom wood pergolas and takes on renovation projects. For example, they remodel garages, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Key Services 

– Deck building services for residential and commercial clients
– Custom wood pergolas
– Offer a wide range of materials, including AZEK®, Fiberon Horizon, cedar
– Waterproofing with Moisture Shield
– General renovation services
– Other services include: bathroom + kitchen remodels, home additions, flooring

Customer Feedback

It became obvious after my first project that Pierre’s attention to detail is no laughing matter. We purchased three complicated projects from Elite Decking and have had absolutely no complaints. Looking forward to do business again in the future.

– Chris & Jane

Get estimates for your deck building project!

Check out RenovationFind’s Post a Project service! This is an easy way to get quick and accurate estimates from reputable deck builders in Edmonton. First, fill out the online form with your project details so we can learn more about what you need. Then, our team will send it to three of the best deck builders in town. Those RenovationFind Certified deck contractors will connect with you for more information and provide you with a quote for your project.

RenovationFind Certified deck companies have been through a stringent screening process. They must go through legal and credit background checks. In addition, they must show proof of business licensing, insurance and WBC coverage. Finally, we monitor the companies for customer complaints and to ensure they’re keeping up to our high standards. A RenovationFind Certified deck builder in Edmonton is a company you can trust!

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

Flats roofs are a popular option for both residential and commercial buildings. This roof style uses multiple layers and a waterproof membrane to protect your building from the elements. They are known for being durable and easy to install, but what other features do they offer? Why is a flat roof best for you?

Citadel Roofing & Building Maintenance in the Lower Mainland are your local roofing experts. They offer a range of roofing options, including flat roof installation and maintenance.

Good investment

Roofing can be expensive, but you always get what you pay for. Citadel Roofing offers high-quality, durable flat roofing systems that will stand up to extreme weather. While there is an initial investment, you’ll find a good return with a robust roofing system that will protect your building and last for years to come.

Damage resistant

Flat roofs are innately more durable than many of their sloped roof counterparts. A flat roof can withstand extreme weather like strong winds and hail storms. On the other hand, pitched roofs can get ripped apart by wild weather. For example, the shingles commonly used on sloped roofs can get torn away by the wind, leaving your roof damaged and susceptible to the elements.

Easy to repair

If damage does occur, flat roofs are easy to repair. Any damage to the membrane is typically a straightforward and quick fix. Furthermore, the minimal slope makes it easy for professional roofers to navigate. They can fix any damage faster while working safely.

Space for an HVAC…

With a flat roof, you have the perfect place to put your HVAC unit. As a result, your HVAC won’t be taking up coveted space elsewhere and is protected from the elements. Trees, falling debris, weeds, and accidents easily damage exterior HVACs. Keeping your HVAC on the roof helps to keep it safe and running well.

…or a solar panel!

Flat roofs and solar panels are the ideal pairings. For one, working on a flat roof is easy as it can be, so installing your new solar panel will be a breeze. Furthermore, optimizing the solar panel’s angle is easier when you aren’t contending with a sloping roof. Without the restrictions of the pitched roof, you can install the solar panel at the perfect angle to get the most sun. Learn more about solar panel installation.

Flat Roofing in the Lower Mainland

Citadel Roofing & Building Maintenance provides residential, commercial, and industrial roofing services to the Lower Mainland and nearby areas. They offer both new roof installation, roof replacements, and roof repairs. In addition, they do waterproofing for basements and decks. They are also experts in siding, carpentry, cleaning, and building maintenance. Citadel Roofing & Building Maintenance is proud to deliver impeccable customer service and outstanding results.

Contact Citadel Roofing & Building Maintenance today!

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

Hanging shelves is an easy task, but you must take the necessary precautions to get it right. This can only be done if you follow these simple steps:

1. Get the right tools. You don’t want to damage your shelving when trying to hang it in a disorganized manner.
2. Clear out space in your room or on the floor for both shelves and hardware.
3. Measure how far apart each of your shelves should be from one another and mark that spot on the wall where they are supposed to meet.
4. Make sure all the holes for screws are properly drilled into studs and load supports are installed uprightly into walls, etc.
5. Last but not least, measure how far apart each shelf should be from each other and your ceiling.
6. Follow the instructions inside your hardware packet to assemble your hardware.
7. Make sure you have a level handy to make sure all the shelves are installed right side up.
8. Slowly start hanging your first piece of hardware onto the wall and continue until they are all in place.
9. “Walla”, you got it right! (The only thing left is to fill that space with what you want to put on those shelves).

Remember: You get what you pay for, even when it comes to hanging shelves, so don’t skimp out on anything.

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 9 Steps to Hang Shelves appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Summer means getting outside, hosting friends, having BBQs, and enjoying your backyard to its fullest. Contact your local handyman to get your deck and home exterior ideal for summer hosting.

Mr. Handyman of Burnaby and New Westminster offers a wide range of handyman services. Here they offer 4 tips to get your yard ready for summer.

Fix the deck

Decks are the perfect place to host parties and entertain friends during the warmer months. However, this can be hard if your deck has seen better days. If your deck is an eyesore or has lost structural integrity, your handyman can help.

Water causes parts of your deck to warp or rot over time. If the wood is soft, it’s time to replace it. Your handyman will remove the water-damaged boards and replace them with new wood. On the other hand, they may use a wood filler to repair the rot if the damage is minor and limited to one area.

Stain the deck

You should have your deck restained every three to four years with a high-quality sealant to protect it from the elements. With a lower quality stain, you will have to reapply every one to two years.

Deck staining helps reduce the chance of splintering and water damage. In fact, staining is crucial to your deck’s longevity! Plus, it keeps your deck looking great.

Staining isn’t an overly complicated process, but it is one that you want to do right. Otherwise, the stain may not take properly. In that case, it won’t protect your deck perfectly and won’t look perfect either! Fortunately, your handyman is an expert at staining decks.

Add a fire pit 

If your area doesn’t allow wood-burning firepits, consider a propane burner! Propane fireplaces, fire tables or fire pits can help you enjoy those long summer nights. Mr. Handyman of Burnaby and New Westminster can help install your propane burner and ensure your fireplace area flows well with the rest of the yard.

Pressure wash

A professional pressure wash might be just the facelift that your yard needs! Pressure washing removes dirt, mould, algae, and anything else stuck to the exterior of your home. Not only does this improve your home’s curb appeal, but it also helps protect wood and masonry from grime buildup.

If you want to host any summer BBQs or gatherings, getting your home’s exterior pressure washed is a great idea. It gets your yard looking its best!

Doing your own pressure washing can be a real hassle. It’s time-consuming, and you’ll probably have to rent a pressure washer. Therefore, it makes more sense to simply hire a handyman to do the job for you!

Handyman Services in Burnaby

Mr. Handyman of Burnaby and New Westminster provides extensive handyman services for residential and commercial clients. They accept all kinds of projects- big and small! This includes things like deck repair, pressure washing, and kitchen renovations. They always deliver hassle-free service and high-quality workmanship!

Contact Mr. Handyman of Burnaby and New Westminster today!

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

It seems that the long, early morning commutes are now a thing of the past and instead we have the next best thing, an office down the hallway! When covid hit, many people were told to work from home and had to quickly improvise to find an office space somewhere in the house. But did you ever get round to perfecting this space and creating your ideal office, or did time simply slip away from you? At the Handy Squad, we can lend a helping hand to finalise your home office and create the best space to enhance productivity. Contact us today to get a free quote for your office renovation project. 

Where to start?

The first vital component of any office space is, of course, furniture, especially a chair to sit at and a desk to work from. There are so many different designs and colours to choose from, so you will without a doubt find something to match your theme.  

Another important tip to follow is to look for online reviews of furniture that you’re considering buying, particularly your office chair. Sitting at a desk all day, staring at a computer isn’t exactly ideal and can cause a range of back problems, so try to find a chair that is valued for its comfort, as this will improve both your posture and productivity.  

At the Handy Squad, we can help assemble flatpack furniture for your office, because we understand how stressful and time-consuming this job can become. Not only this but we also offer services to lift and shift furniture, so whether you’re buying a desk that comes flat pack or need help moving one from your garage that you now use as a storage space, we can help! 

Adding colour

Picking the perfect colour for your office walls is another important step in creating a productive working space. It’s a good idea to add a splash of colour to your office, using flowers, plants, cushions and hanging pictures. However, when it comes to the colour of your walls remember that although a bright colour like yellow or pink might look great to begin with and awaken you in the early mornings, these colours could very quickly give you a headache when trying to concentrate.  

Our London decorators can help advise you on the best colour for your office space, such as a light blue tone which brings tranquillity and brightness to a room. We provide a range of painting services including painting offices, painting doors, painting stairs, painting cupboards, painting skirting boards and more! So maybe it’s not just your walls that need painting, it might be the skirting boards and furniture too, but lucky for you we cover it all. 

Sorting your electrics

Now, obviously, an office needs a good Wi-Fi connection and electrics to function as a productive space. You may need to consider adding a Wi-Fi booster to ensure a strong connection or implementing more plug sockets for your various computers and monitors. At the Handy Squad, we have a team of qualified electricians in London who can install new plug sockets or wire a new lighting circuit for whatever it may be that you require.  

Tidy loose cables

Keeping your office space tidy is still essential for productivity, so you don’t want loose wires hanging around and causing a potential trip hazard. We also offer a cable tidying service to help resolve this so not only will your office be functional, but tidy too!  

You could perhaps consider installing a cabinet to help hide wires and store extra office supplies as well, like pens, paper and folders. There are endless ways to design your office space for optimal productivity. If this is something you would like us to help with then give us a call on 0800-0-12-12-12 or fill in our online form.  

 

 

The post Office ideas to increase productivity appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

At the Handy Squad, we understand that some tasks should be left to professionals, particularly when they run the risk of health and safety. That’s why we have a team of London electricians on hand to support you with a range of electrical jobs. This could include finding faults and repairs, replacements, installing new cabling and much more. So, if you’re looking for an electrician in South London, an electrician in East London or simply an “electrician service near me” then we have you covered! 

How can our services help property developers, block managers and managing agents?

Our electricians have been working in their field for over a decade, providing them with knowledge and expertise in a variety of areas. When managing or developing a property, you have a large responsibility to ensure everything runs smoothly and is taken care of, and clearly electrics are a huge part of this. That’s where our team can step in and help!  

We offer electrical installation condition reports to businesses, landlords and residential customers. This report is crucial for properties (whether existing or brand-new) and particularly in cases where the electrics haven’t been tested in the last 5 years. With one of our reports, carried out by a fully qualified Part P 17th edition electrician, we can assess the safety of your electrics, identifying shock risks, fire hazards and other defective electrical work. We will help to make sure your property is compliant with electrical safety standards, so that it is prepped and ready for new homeowners or tenants. 

How can our services help interior designers?

Interior designers are another key customer who could benefit from our electrical services in London. With designers, we recognised that it’s all about the aesthetic, so wires and cables can very easily interfere with this! Thankfully, our team can install chased-in cabling, hiding the ugly cables from view. Alongside this, we are able to install new light fittings which can further help to match a specific design idea.  Are you looking to integrate spotlights into the kitchen? Perhaps you want a statement chandelier or pendant light? Leave it with our friendly team, who will get the job done efficiently and effectively. 

How can our services help commercial properties and homeowners? 

For commercial businesses or homeowners, our electricians can also carry out work to assist you. Is your doorbell not working? Have you tripped a fuse? Allow our team to help with electrical faults and repairs, restoring your property in no time. We can even carry out a portable appliance test, examining the safety of kettles, laptops, chargers and more, which may be useful if you own an office space. 

Whatever business or property you own, we would love to lend our helping hand with your electrics. Contact our team today on 0800-0-12-12-12 or fill in our online form and let us know how we can assist you. We also have other services available at the Handy Squad including carpentry, handyman services, decorating and more so we can help in more ways than one! 

The post How electricians could help your business appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Being a property developer comes with many responsibilities and multiple factors to take into consideration. As a property developer, you want your property to have great aesthetic appeal, drawing in potential buyers or tenants. Alongside this, it is also important to consider the practical elements of property development which are essential for a functional living space. One of these vital factors is home electrics. Do the electrics in the property run smoothly? Is the house and/or flat energy efficient? These are important questions to ask yourself when developing a property.  

At the Handy Squad, our electrician London can help with all your electrical needs and queries, so you can stop scanning the internet for “electrician near me” and instead give us a call! Here, we have put together some of our best tips and tricks for preparing your property’s home electrics. 

Give attention to plug sockets

When building a property from scratch, you will have to assess which areas in your house require a plug socket. How many do you need? What style do you require? These might seem like small touches that don’t matter too much but they can have a huge impact on the buyer’s living experience.  

For instance, in the bedrooms, think of the key areas where a plug socket is needed – near the bed, by the mirror, next to the bedroom furniture – this is particularly important if you are staging the property for a show home. At the Handy Squad, you can hire an electrician to install plug sockets for your every need. Whether that be USB ports, rose gold double sockets or simply replacing/installing some wall sockets, we are on hand to help.  

How can I make my development energy efficient?

Another element that is becoming more prominent than ever is creating an energy efficient home. With energy bill prices on the rise and climate change becoming a growing issue, this is a vital aspect to review. An excellent starting point could be simply using energy efficient light bulbs to bring down costs and usage. We can change light bulbs as well as help with larger jobs like light fittings and installations. Not only this, but by connecting plug sockets to an outlet, this makes it easier to switch off appliances at the end of a day. Rather than individually switching off every energy source in the property, you can do it all with the click of a button and our electricians can install a suitable outlet to help. 

Types of lighting

When developing a property, you will need to factor in which lighting you want in each room. Looking for a bathroom light pull switch? Looking to add outdoor lighting? Perhaps you want to add motion sensor lights in the bathrooms? Maybe you want to add beauty lights in the bedroom. There are thousands of different types of lighting that you can choose from.  

Condition reports

We also offer electrical installation condition reports, which are highly recommended for property developers and landlords (both existing and first time), particularly if the electrics have not been tested in the last 5 years. This work is carried out by fully qualified Part P 17th Edition electricians, providing Electrical Safety Certificates.  

Electrical installation condition reports are an important legal requirement which our team can help to complete, preparing your property for sale. We also offer this service for businesses, commercial properties, and residential customers too, so if this is something you are interested in, give us a call today on 0800-0-12-12-12.  

What else?

Not only this but our team of London handyman can help with smaller odd jobs like cable tidying, ensuring your property looks pristine and tidy. Why not get our team to install new cabling? We can hide TV cables in the walls for example or advise you on other cable-free options to help create this sleek, fresh look. Check out our other services including plumbing and decorating for further guidance, ensuring your property development is prepped and ready! 

 

The post Electrical tips for property developers appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Blog submitted by Allstone Inc. in Edmonton

Do you love to cook, or would you rather order in and have your party catered?  If you’re like most homeowners, you want your kitchen countertops to be both durable and stylish, and to withstand the everyday wear and tear.  Here are some questions you should ask yourself when choosing your next set of countertops.

1. How do you use your countertops?

This is probably the most important question that you can ask yourself when you are considering what type of stone you are going to use for your new countertops.  If you’re an avid cook, you’ll want to choose a countertop that can stand up to daily wear and tear. High-quality quartz and sintered stone are both great choices for overall durability. Natural quartzites and granites are also great options but will require a little more knowledge and research about the materials available and their “personalities” than the other two options.

If you are the kind of person that orders in often and craves that one-of-a-kind classic elegance that you see in magazines, marble can be a great option for you. It is a softer material requiring more maintenance but offers a world of design possibilities. With so many colors and veins available that are almost impossible to recreate in manufactured products, you can create a look that is truly unique to your home. Just be sure to seal it regularly and avoid acidic and oily foods to help keep it looking its best.  Over time as they patina and age, refinishing your countertops is certainly an option with a high-quality natural marble.

2. How much heat resistance do you need?

All stone countertop materials are heat resistant to an extent, but sintered stone and soapstone have the highest heat resistance overall. If you plan on setting hot pans directly on your countertops or mounting integrated natural gas burners into your countertops these materials are likely the best choice for you.  Natural quartzite is also a solid choice, but you will need to be more careful with the potential of microfissures and thermal cracking from excessive and extended periods of heat.

High-quality quartz is a great material for countertops because it is heat resistant. However, it is important to be aware that high heat items can scorch the surface of the stone.  This is because quartz has resin in the material, which can be affected by high heat.  If you do scorch the surface of your quartz countertops, and it can be a very difficult and costly process to try and refinish the quartz surface.  The simple solution of course is just to use trivets and hot pot stands when setting anything hot down on your countertops.

3. Which do you value most, color consistency, a near flawless surface, or a one-of-a-kind natural piece of art?

If you prefer a more uniform look in your kitchen, sintered stone or quartz may be the best options for you as they offer a wider range of colors and patterns that can be more easily controlled during manufacturing.  Often, sintered stone and porcelain surfaces can be near perfect surfaces free of any fissures and surface textures in some cases.  If you don’t want the faint natural fissures in a natural stone, or what can be sometimes seen as an orange peel finish on some quartz products, this may be the best option for you.

Quartzites, granites, soapstone’s and marbles are natural products with inherent natural imperfections.  These materials are available in countless beautiful colors with varying vein and crystalline patterns, and it is most important to keep in mind that each slab will be unique.  If you’re looking for something truly one of a kind, these materials are likely the best option as no two slabs are exactly alike.

4. How much maintenance are you willing to do to keep your countertops looking their best?

Sintered stone, quartz, and soapstone are all very low maintenance materials. With soapstone, there are specific oils and wax pastes that can be used to bring out the natural luster of the stone, but this is purely for aesthetics and not necessary for the overall performance of the stone.   Sintered stones, porcelains and high-quality quartz materials should never require a sealer.  These materials are near impervious, and the sealer will not penetrate the stones surface, rather eventually create a film on the stones surface that makes your stone look dull and streaky and is notoriously difficult to remove without the proper products and knowledge to do so.

Quartzites and granites may require regular sealing to help maintain their natural beauty and avoid staining. This is especially true for lighter stones as stains and oil marks can be quite noticeable on the materials surface.  Marble should also be sealed and requires more frequent attention as it is a softer stone that is more prone to etching. There are a number of new sealing products on the market tailored specifically to marbles and might be worth investing some time in researching them to help protect your investment.

5. Are UV light and frost resistance important to you?

It seems a little weird but hear us out!   Outdoor kitchens and outdoor living spaces have become immensely more important to us over the last few years.  Several new stone materials have been introduced to the market that offer UV resistance and frost resistance for extended outdoor use. Sintered stones and porcelains are among the top products for these applications as they are as waterproof as we can hope for.  While natural stone can be a great option for outdoor living spaces, but if there is excessive moisture in the stone when the temperature drops below zero in our Edmonton winters you can run the risk of the stone cracking as the water inside it freezes and expands.

Another option that is not well known, is some quartz that is specifically formulated for use in outdoor applications.   (Normal standard quartz will not hold up to the UV light and will start to fade, discolor and sometimes breakdown) While there are specific design considerations when using an outdoor quartz, it offers additional design options for your outdoor living spaces.

Countertops in Edmonton

So, there you have it! This is just a short list of some things you should consider when you are choosing new stone countertop.  Whether you’re a budding gourmet chef or an outdoor grill master there is a perfect stone countertop for you. We’re here to help guide you to culinary nirvana with kitchen countertops that you not only will love but will last you a lifetime.

Visit Allstone Inc’s website or give them a call today to learn more about sintered stone, quartz, and natural stone countertops.

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

Whenever it comes to any home improvement or home maintenance projects, it’s best to contact the professionals early. Doing so has many advantages! For example, booking these appointments in advance can save money and time.

Solar Ninjas Energy Solutions in Edmonton is an electrical company specializing in solar panel installation, electric vehicle (EV) charger installation, panel upgrades, and more. They give a few reasons why you should book your solar installation (and other electrical installations) sooner rather than later.

Secure your booking

Spring and summer are the busiest time for electrical work and solar panel installation. If you wait until the busy season to make your appointment, you’ll find it challenging to get a spot. The best strategy for guaranteeing your slot is to book in advance. Contact your electrician now to start the process and be first in line for the next spring and summer seasons.

Reduce waiting time

It’s normal to wait between booking your appointment and the start of a project. This is true even in the slow season! Consequently, it’s a good idea to make appointments in advance. That way, you already have the process started with Solar Ninjas. Booking later means you’ll have to wait longer.

Improve pricing

One of the unfortunate truths about the world is that prices usually go up. However, booking in advance allows your contractor to plan materials and the workflow efficiently. Sometimes, this can hold lower prices for you. Cost increases due to supply chain, pandemic issues, transportation and labour shortages can be reduced or eliminated if your deposit is paid and orders secured wherever possible.

More time to source materials

Throughout the pandemic and even now, many materials have become harder to come by. With global supply chain issues and the generally slower transportation of goods, it can take longer to get the necessary products and materials. If you make an appointment with your electrician in advance, they have more time to source the materials for your project. In the end, this speeds up the installation.

Consider off-season work

Solar Ninjas can tackle electrical installations, including EV chargers, electrical panel upgrades, and some solar projects partially or entirely during slower periods. Booking some work in the off-season smooths out labour requirements and helps out your contractor. In turn, they can help you with extra consideration, pricing, and focused attention. Additionally, off-season work and booking in advance allow your contractor to fit your project in around a cancellation or work change.

Gain peace of mind!

Rest easy knowing your project is under control and a professional team is responsive to your needs. Booking ahead allows extra time to fix any surprises, reduces stress, and gives peace of mind. Reduce the frantic nature of home improvements by booking ahead. You’ll benefit from a positive home improvement experience!

Get to know your contractor

Booking your solar installation in advance provides the perfect time to get to know your contractor! This helps to determine if they’re the right fit and allows time to plan more complex projects. Building a familiar partner-type relationship with your contractor increases confidence and satisfaction in your project. It also allows you to be a responsive team when things inevitably change with the project. Trust, authority, confidence and connection make your project smoother and more efficient.

Electricians in Edmonton & Solar Panels in Edmonton

Solar Ninjas Energy Solutions have more than 25 years of residential and commercial electrical experience in Edmonton. Additionally, they were one of the first companies to offer solar in Alberta! Whether you need electrical repair, maintenance, solar installation, or a panel upgrade, their experienced technicians can help. Ask about their RenovationFind special for long-term pre-bookings!

Contact Solar Ninjas Energy Solutions today!

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