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Home renovations and building projects can be stressful, but they don’t have to be. Hiring a contractor who offers project management, and is an expert in all aspects of construction, can go a long way in having a seamless process.

Black Bear Building Solutions in Stony Plain offers a full range of renovation and construction services. They share how they can help you with your big project every step of the way.

Planning and design

The first step of a construction project is knowing what you want in the space you’re working in. Whether a renovation or a new build, having a design is needed before beginning. Whether you have ideas or starting from scratch, Black Bear Building can help. They work with designers, architects and engineers to develop effective plans. A contractor involved with planning and design is invaluable as they can manage the project on schedule, budget, and according to the master plan. Asking questions is a big part of the construction process, so hire a contractor that keeps communication open and is available to answer your questions.

Construction and installation phase

After being involved in the planning and design, it’s much easier for a contractor to accurately see the end goal. Having a better idea of what their clients are looking for will help the construction and installation phase. In addition, this design-build process will improve communication and help to streamline the entire construction process. Creating this type of relationship between contractor and client goes a long way in creating a low-stress renovation experience.

Finishing work

The high level of communication and project management extends to the finishing work of the construction. A construction job isn’t finished until the last pieces are in place. It’s not unheard of for contractors to stretch this part out as they move on to other jobs. This doesn’t happen when there is on-site project management like Black Bear Building Solutions provides. They remain committed to your project until the final inspections are complete. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions or raise any concerns at this point in the process. You should feel comfortable talking to your contractor at all times, right until the finish line.

Special accommodations and accessibility

If you’re renovating your bathroom to age-in-place, or for improved accessibility, having the right contractor on your team is essential. Black Bear Building Solutions offers accessible bathroom renovations and can make suggestions for your bathroom design. Bathtub to shower conversions is a beautiful and accessible option for those with mobility challenges. Installing a shower seat, grab bars, a higher toilet, and textured flooring will prevent slips and improve accessibility in the bathroom. For more information on accessible bathroom design, reach out to Black Bear Building Solutions.

General Contractors in Stony Plain

Over 25 years of experience has given Black Bear Building Solutions the knowledge and hands-on skill to deliver top work. They work with you every step of the way, from the design and planning all the way to finishing work. Whether you renovate your home’s interior, build a new deck addition, or need commercial renovation services, they’re ready to work with you.

Contact Black Bear Building Solutions today.

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

Finding a good roofing company is essential not just for your roof but for your home overall. A trusted company can handle roof repairs, replacements, and systems like eavestroughs and siding. Once you find the right company, you can rely on them again for future upgrades or repairs.

Sargeant’s Roofing in Edmonton is a professional roofing company that offers a wide range of exterior renovation services. They share more about their services and how they can benefit your home.

Roof replacements and repair

Sargeant’s Roofing only offers roofing services that they can follow through on with the right quality and care. That’s why their team specializes specifically in asphalt, rubber, and cedar roofs. Part of the quality assurances means 10-year guaranteed workmanship and complete safety. They carry liability insurance, WCB coverage and will clean your property afterwards, so there’s no risk of stray nails.

They offer installation and repairs, and replacements as needed for asphalt, rubber, and cedar roofs. In addition, they’re ready to provide expert advice, education on your current and new roof and will answer any questions you might have. Read signs you might need a new roof.

Siding installation services

Like your roof, the siding is a vital layer of protection for your home. Good siding will protect against the elements, improve thermal performance, and boost curb appeal. Sargeant’s Roofing provides quality siding and professional installation services. They use state-of-the-art materials, innovative techniques, and top-quality siding from leading manufacturers. Thanks to their expertise, you can rely on their team for guidance when starting your exterior renovation. They’ll manage the project from start to finish, keep you in the loop along the way, and ensure your home is protected and looking great.

Saving with solar

Sargeant’s Roofing proudly offers hassle-free solar panels for your roof and other energy services. Their team can provide solar panel installation, energy storage solutions, solar-powered lighting solutions and solar attic ventilation.

Solar power allows your to harvest clean, renewable energy from the sun, reduce your dependence on fossil-fuel-burning energy, and lower your energy bills. Alberta is one of the sunniest places in North America and a great location to reap the full benefits of a residential solar power system. If you have questions about getting started with solar, connect with Sargeant’s Roofing.

Roofing in Edmonton

Sargeant’s Roofing Ltd. offers roofing, siding, solar, and other exterior renovation services to Edmonton and the surrounding area. With over 45 years of combined roofing experience, you can trust that your home is in capable hands. In addition, they offer a free consultation, will provide expert advice on the best services for your home, and provide low-interest financing and credit options.

Contact Sargeant’s Roofing today!

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

Home additions add significant value to your existing layout, but it’s also a major undertaking. Between the cost, labour and design, there’s a lot to consider. However, with the right planning and considerations, you can enjoy the full benefits of your new space.

Kingdom Master Builder in Calgary is a professional renovation and general contractor company. They share some tips when it comes to considering and planning a home addition:

Is it the right step?

Before hiring a general contractor to expand your home, make sure it is the right step. Would moving the furniture around or taking down a wall suffice if space is the issue? Do you have a basement with untapped potential that could provide that extra bedroom, bathroom or family room with a renovation? If yes, then focus on improving your existing space. Otherwise, if you need and want more space and an expansion makes sense, go for it! Talking with your general contractor will help sort out those ideas and goals and ensure a home addition is a right step.

Set a realistic budget with leeway

Budget is the next step when planning and considering an addition. Aside from the labour cost, there are also the consultation, design, and furnishings costs. Will you buy new furniture to decorate or paint the space, or do you have items in storage? Do you need to extend the HVAC system to warm the new area, or will you install something new? The exterior as well should complement or match the rest of the home. In that case, roofing and new siding need to be considered.

These are all things to discuss with your general contractor. They can provide cost breakdowns in a detailed quote and answer any questions you might have. Once you have your budget, set aside another 10-15% as a contingency. That will cover any unexpected changes or delays without causing panic.

Property and neighbours

Home additions take up additional space, which means thinking about property lines and your neighbours is essential. You must have the space to do so within your jurisdiction’s zoning and building regulations. Think about if you might be encroaching on power lines, utility poles, or cramping your yard space.

It’s also considerate to talk to your neighbours and tell them about your plans. The noise, dirt, and general construction may be an inconvenience to your neighbours. Ensure that your new construction project isn’t about to encroach on their space or block a nice view. Again, talking it out can help avoid disturbances and squabbles once the work begins.

General Contractors in Calgary

Kingdom Master Builder prides itself on “building trust with quality work.” Their team is fully trained, licensed, and experienced in all aspects of renovations or additions. They offer end-to-end experiences to help guide you with the plans, details, work, and costs involved from start to finish. In addition, they’ll work within your budget to bring guaranteed quality and lasting results.

Contact Kingdom Master Builder today!

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

When the new year rolls in, many people make resolutions to better their health and wellness. However, making positive changes to your home can improve lifestyle and resale value and is a new year’s resolution you can keep!

Calvert’s Construction Services Inc. is a general contractor in Calgary that offers home renovations, drywall, and handyman services. They share four ways you can give your home a little TLC in 2022:

Update the kitchen

Kitchen renovations are a popular home improvement project and have a great return on investment. Costs vs. value data show that even minor kitchen renovations can recover 70% of their cost at resale. Kitchen renovations in Calgary can also improve your home’s aesthetics, function, and enjoyment. Calvert’s Construction Services can help you create a design plan for the kitchen you’ve always wanted. Then they can handle the project for you, managing trades and installers while keeping you informed every step of the way. You’ll love cooking, entertaining, and spending time with family in your new, beautiful kitchen.

Remember that your kitchen renovation doesn’t have to be a full-scale remodel to improve the space. Reach out to Calvert’s Construction Services for a consultation. They can show you how a few simple repairs and upgrades can rejuvenate the space. For example, swapping out your faucets, light fixtures, and cabinetry hardware are cost-effective ways to improve the kitchen.

Bathroom renovations

Renovating the bathroom to meet your needs better has excellent value. That might mean a bathtub to shower conversion to improve accessibility, a bathroom addition to accommodate a growing family, or upgrading an ensuite to create a space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Bathroom renovations can also improve lifestyle and resale value while adding function to your home. If your bathroom feels dated and worn out, Calvert’s Construction Services can make suggestions to help improve the space.

Basement development

If your home has an unfinished or dated basement, basement renovations in Calgary can help you utilize the potential of that unused square footage! You can design your new basement however suits you best. For example, you can build a family room for movie and games nights, a functional home office space, a playroom for the kids, a fitness room, or a sports-themed lounge. Finishing your basement can nearly double your functional living space, provide much-needed storage areas, and is a phenomenal way to improve your home and lifestyle for 2022. Plus, your finished basement will add resale and marketable value to your home.

Drywall repair and upgrades

Drywall services can help you maintain and improve your home’s maintenance and value. If you have areas in the house that require drywall repair in Calgary, Calvert’s Construction Services can help. Before they became general contractors in Calgary, they spent over 21 years in the drywall industry. They can help you with needed repairs, ceiling upgrades, basement developments and other drywall services to give your home a flawless finish. So whether you have damage to your drywall, or are embarking on a renovation, trust the experience and knowledge of the team at Calvert’s Construction.

Resolve to give your home some TLC this year. Contact Calvert’s Construction Services to get started!

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

There are several benefits to having a secondary suite in your home. Rental income or creating space for a multi-generational family are two reasons homeowners invest. Basement suites are a popular and cost-effective option, but if you need the space in your home for yourself, there are other options.

Jeffrey Building Services in Winnipeg is a full-service renovation company specializing in basement renovations. They share three options for secondary suites:

Basement suite

When deciding to include a basement suite in your home, there are several things to consider. Living spaces in the basement require adequate lighting and egress windows in bedrooms to comply with the building code. Ensuring the suite is comfortable will need proper insulation, well-distributed heating, and ventilation in the kitchen and bathroom. Noise considerations should also be made as sound can be transmitted easily from suite to suite. Finally, basement suites are usually smaller than second-floor suites as HVAC systems and water tanks take up space. Learn more about building a downstairs secondary suite in Winnipeg.

Garden and garage suites

Garden suites are separate dwellings located in the backyard of the main house. They can be built attached to a garage, typically over the garage, or be detached homes on the property. The main reason for investing in this type of suite is that it allows separation from the main house and more privacy for both parties. If the garden or garage suite is for adult children or ageing parents, it provides independence with the comfort of knowing family is still nearby. Both garden and garage suites require a kitchen, bathroom, and living space to be a legal secondary suite.

Second-floor suite

Rising house costs, inflation, and slow income growth have seen second-floor suites grow in popularity. These allow homeowners’ children to stay at home for more extended periods while also allowing privacy. For those looking for rental income, second-floor suites are typically higher in rental prices than basement suites. However, more space is available than basement suites, and it could be more accessible depending on building styles. In addition, a suite that doesn’t require stair access is more accommodation to renters with mobility challenges.

If you’re a real estate investor, you might consider putting two or more suites in a home to increase your rental revenue and investment. While it’s not always possible, this is something Jeffery Building Services can help you determine.

Basement Renovations in Winnipeg

Jeffrey Building Services offer an end-to-end client experience. That means seamless communication and design that makes the most out of your space and renovation budget. Their team is passionate about what they do, which reflects in every project with outstanding results and lasting quality. Whether you’re remodelling the kitchen or developing the basement, you can trust the professionals at Jeffrey Building Services to bring your vision to life.

Contact Jeffrey Building Services today.

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

As technology changes, so do our home’s electrical needs. Unfortunately, older electrical systems were not built to handle the capacity and specific needs required in the modern world. Partnering with a certified electrician can help you identify potential issues and create an electrical upgrade plan that better meets your needs.

Linfoot Electric in Vancouver is an experienced electrical company that can assist you with an extensive range of electrical services. Here are some ways they can help you upgrade your home’s electrical system to meet modern demands:

EV charging station installation

If you want to purchase an electric vehicle (EV), planning for an EV charging station at your home is critical. Linfoot Electric can determine if you need an electrical service upgrade to more efficiently and effectively charge your vehicle. Typically, EV chargers work best on a 200 AMP service. Without proper capacity, you can run into slow charge times and circuit overloads. With many charging systems available, you even have the option of receiving notifications or scheduling its usage. Linfoot Electric will go over all your options, explain the installation process, and ensure you’re getting the best EV charging station for your needs.

Updating aluminum wiring

Many older homes built before the mid-1970s were outfitted with aluminum wiring. Unfortunately, aluminum conducts heat more easily than copper and creates overheating, especially at connecting points. Linfoot Electric can inspect your home for aluminum wiring and offer the best solution for a safe upgrade. While some homeowners choose to replace the wiring completely with copper, it can be an evasive and expensive retrofit. Instead, you can opt to have your aluminum wiring “pigtailed” with copper. This is when copper wiring replaces aluminum at the more hazardous connecting points. Gain peace of mind and protect your home with this important electrical upgrade.

Energy efficiency

There are many ways to ensure your home’s energy is operating efficiently. Investing in renewable energy services such as solar panels can help to reduce your electrical bill and carbon footprint. If installing a new energy system isn’t a valid option for you, there are still steps you can take. You can upgrade your older light fixtures to energy-efficient models and swap out your old incandescent lightbulbs with LED bulbs. Dimmer switches and motion sensors can also help you improve energy efficiency at home. Linfoot Electric can do an inspection of your current electrical system and make suggestions for energy-efficient upgrades.

Electricians in Vancouver

Linfoot Electrical strives to be the best and safest electrical contractor in the industry. They prove outstanding customer service, exceptional value, and expert advice for every project they work on. They want to ensure you’re getting the most out of your electrical project, including safety, function, and efficiency.

Contact Linfoot Electric for your electrical needs today.

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

Laminate wood flooring is one of the most popular options for homeowners looking to replace carpeting. It is an affordable flooring option that also has the added benefits of being easy to clean, and you can put it wherever you want in your house. Plus, it looks great! 

Laminate wood floors are both attractive and functional which makes them a great way to update your home without doing any major remodeling.

Focus on Quality Materials

There are a few important things to keep in mind when shopping for laminate wood flooring materials. One is the fact that laminate wood flooring is made with multiple layers of wood or other material that looks like wood layered on top of each other. So, you have to make sure the layers are of good quality. The best layers are made of natural hardwoods, especially oak and maple. This is because they will wear better than non-natural woods.

Laminate floors also have a protective coating between the layers which makes them durable and scratch-resistant as long as you take good care of them. Be sure to take good care of this coating and make sure you are using a laminate floor cleaner that is appropriate for your flooring. You can also do an extra step to ensure the longevity of your floor, making sure the floors are moisture-resistant underlayment.

Installation

Laminate floors are very easy to install because they come in an unassembled kit. Just follow the manufacturer’s directions and watch their video to see exactly how it’s done. You can order all of the materials you will need in one box when you go shopping and save money by not buying multiple items at a time.

Contact Handyman Connection

Contact your local office team to schedule your home improvement estimate today. Call or text to schedule a free estimate.

The post Say Goodbye to Carpet, Hello Laminate Wood Flooring appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

When designing a new home or planning a renovation, it’s not just about the aesthetics and visuals. Function and accessibility explicitly designed for your needs are also essential. Access City Projects in Chilliwack specializes in precise solutions for accessibility in your home while continuing to improve aesthetics and your enjoyment of the space. 

They share more about how you can add accessibility to your new home or renovation plans:

Wider halls, entries, and turn spaces

Whether by foot on with a wheelchair, getting around your home shouldn’t be a difficult task. Widening narrow spaces in your home is not only functional, but it’s also a visually nice change. For example, the open spaces will make moving down the hallway or passing someone easier and welcome more light. Likewise, living rooms and bedrooms should have enough room to navigate and turn around without being blocked by furniture.

Lower switches but raise outlets

Lowering light switches enables anyone in your house to access lighting without any risk of an accident. If need be, changing the type of light switch can also make accessibility easier. Larger buttons are easier to turn on or off while sliding switches help with motor skills accessibility. Raising the height of electrical outlets from the ground is another two-in-one benefit for convenience and safety. The raised height makes it easier for anyone to access the outlet as needed, even from a wheelchair. It also helps raise any wires off the floor, which are potential safety and tripping hazards otherwise. 

Walk-in shower

A glass-enclosed walk-in shower may be the new bathroom standard, but it is also an accessibility boost and key for ageing in place. The easy-to-access shower is the best option for those who use a wheelchair or have mobility issues where a bathtub isn’t an option. For the design, make sure there is no raised step or lip on the edge of the shower door, which can be a tripping risk. Inside the shower, a bench and grab bars will allow for safe, seated showers without the risk of slipping. Textured tiles will also make the floors less slippery, even when wet. 

Lower the kitchen

Kitchens are an important area to design around accessibility as well as safety. Lowering countertop heights will make accessing surfaces to prep food or reach appliances easier; instead of having control at the back of appliances, select front control appliances for easier access. Stacking is another excellent design, like having the microwave above the stove. That will limit how much movement around the kitchen is needed while cooking. A sink with open front access is a significant accessibility change that will allow anyone in a wheelchair to easily reach and use the sink. Read more accessible kitchen design ideas. 

General Contracts in Chilliwack

No matter the project, whether a remodel, complete overhaul or accessibility improvement, Access City Projects is here to help. They pride themselves on having 25+ years of combined trade experience and happy customers throughout that time. From design consultation, renovations, or increasing access in your home, they will create a design plan that best meets your needs now and for the future.

Contact Access City Projects today!

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

Whether buying or selling a home, you should have a professional plumber inspect the house for poly b plumbing. This type of plumbing was commonly used in older homes but can cause serious issues. Handy Andy Plumbing, Heating, & Gasfitting in Edmonton offers a full range of plumbing and heating services for residential and commercial customers. They share more about poly b plumbing, and why you should replace it as soon as possible: 

What is it?

Poly-b or Polybutylene is a flexible plastic popular for plumbing and pipes between 1978 and 1995. It was also popular because of how cheap it was compared to other plumbing options. Over the years, new and superior plumbing materials have come out, and house inspectors and plumbers recommend replacing poly-b. It’s easily identifiable by its grey colouring and brass fittings. Learn how to tell if you have poly b pipes. 

The problem

The main reason to replace poly-b is that the pipes leak and burst over time, leading to even more costly issues caused by water damage. The material is also permeable to oxygen, so over time, the oxidized water will shorten the lifespan of the pipes prematurely. It can even break down prematurely if the plumbing is exposed to sunlight. The good news is that the piping can easily be replaced with newer, more cost-effective plumbing materials. Of course, the replacement cost will depend on how much plumbing needs to be replaced. 

Replacing ploy-b plumbing is worthwhile whether you’re selling or planning on staying in your home for a long time. The upfront cost will save you headaches and money down the road.

The benefits of replacing

There are many benefits from replacing poly-b; the foremost is the peace of mind and monthly savings. Newer plumbing materials can help save more and have a longer-lasting lifespan. In addition, you won’t have to worry about repairing cracks, leaks or ruptures and ensuring costly water damage. Plus, not all insurance companies will cover Poly-b in homeowners insurance policies either, which could be a deal-breaker for potential buyers.

That said, if you can’t replace it right away, then there are ways to stay off temporary problems. Things like keeping the hot water low and replacing any plastic fittings with copper or brass will help prevent cracks. It’ll also help extend the plumbing lifespan for a while longer.

Plumbers in Edmonton

Handy Andy Plumbing, Heating, and Gasfitting are a team of high-skilled plumbers who are on the call 24/7 to assist you. They offer fast, reliable, and competitive services to Edmonton and surrounding areas. Attention to detail, superior workmanship, and professional, courteous service have gained them a respectable reputation in the industry. Whether you need to install a gas line for a new appliance, replace poly b plumbing, need repairs, are renovating your home, or need a new furnace, they can help!

Contact Handy Andy Plumbing, Heating & Gasfitting!

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

Are you fully renovating your bathroom with new tiles for both the floor and walls? Perhaps you want to add a splash of colour to your current bathroom by adding a striking tile feature to your bathroom wall? Either way, today we are sharing the ins and outs of tiling a bathroom.

Tiling a bathroom might seem like a daunting task but it’s easier than it looks. At the Handy Squad, we offer tiling services all across London. Our team can tile walls, tile floors, grout tiles or simply drill through tiles to install a new bathroom mirror. If you ever get stuck whilst tiling your bathroom or need another pair of hands to help, contact our team.

Don’t bother searching “painter and decorator near me” – our team of professional tradesmen is inclusive of decorators in London who will be able to help you with any decorating tasks you might have. This includes renovating your bathroom head to toe!

Types of bathroom tiles.

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom is essential. Not only are some tiles more practical for bathrooms than others but also tiles can make or break the look of your bathroom. So, it’s important to pick the right ones. Some of the most popular bathroom tiles include porcelain tiles, marble tiles, ceramic tiles, mosaic tiles and glass tiles.

Bathroom tile ideas.

Forget about the all-white bathrooms or bathrooms with marble all around. Bathrooms can be playful rooms, just like any other area of your home. Give it some colour, add a bold pattern, make your personality shine through. If you are looking for inspiration, here are a few bathroom tile ideas.

Combine different shapes.

Go bold.

Make the shower/bath stand out.

Mix tile styles.

Go monochrome.

Make a statement wall.

How to tile a bathroom.

Materials:

• • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Tile cutter
  • Tile nipper
  • Tile spacers
  • Bucket
  • Mixing paddle
  • Trowel with curved notch
  • Grout float
  • Spirit level
  • Sponge
  • Tiles

How to.

Step 1. Get the surface where you want to install tiles clean, dry and flat. This means, getting rid of old grout, filling in any holes in the walls and more. Look at your surface and access accordingly.

Step 2. Cut tiles to size. You might find that tiles at the edges of your walls and floors need to be cut. Use a measuring tape to work out the size that needs to be cut. Then, it’s time to cut the tiles to size. Make sure to use safety equipment before cutting tiles.

Step 3. Now, it’s time to apply tiles to the walls and floors. Apply tile adhesive in small amounts with your trowel and place your tiles in the correct place. Place tile spacers between each tile to make sure all tiles are spaced equally.

Step 4. Let your tiles sit for at least 24 hours. Then, it’s time to grout. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare your grout. Remove the tile spacers. Next, apply grout in the spaces in between the tiles. Use a grout float to ensure this is done properly. Clean any excess grout and then leave it to dry.

 

Disclaimer

At the Handy Squad, we strongly advise that you always take safety precautions into consideration when undertaking a DIY project. We also strongly suggest that you closely read and follow the instructions, that are provided by the manufacturer, of any building materials, products or tools you use for your projects.

Our aim is to provide you with clear and correct instructions, so that you can easily complete any DIY project you desire. However, please note that the information we provide should only be used as a guideline and that some information within the text may not be entirely accurate.

When using our articles for information and advice, please note that it is your own responsibility to determine whether you are capable of undertaking and executing the task you wish to complete.

Before starting a DIY task, it is essential that you inform yourself of any existing building, gas, water and electrical works regulations. If you were to have any further concerns, we recommend that you complete additional research and/or contact the necessary professional body.

We also strongly recommend that a qualified tradesperson completes the relevant safety tests and checks on any DIY work you have completed

The post How to tile a bathroom appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.