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A gas fireplace can keep you warm and cozy on a chilly day, provide ambience, and create a focal point in the room. However, if you don’t keep up with its maintenance, things can go wrong.

Ryan My Fireplace Guy Inc. in Calgary is a gas heating appliance expert and a certified gas fitter. They share signs that there’s something wrong with your gas fireplace, and you should call for service.

A gas smell

If you smell gas or a rotten egg odour, stop what you’re doing and leave your home. Natural gas doesn’t have a smell, so a harmless chemical is added to it to give it that distinct smell and warn us of leaks. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous. Call your utility company’s emergency line immediately or 911 if you can’t get through. They’ll give you instructions. Whatever you do, don’t try to fix it yourself, light a match, or turn on light switches.

It turns on and off

If you’re enjoying a cozy fire, but then it turns off for no reason, it means something is not working right. There could be a few things wrong. For example, it could have a soot buildup around the pilot light, a jammed burner, or a worn thermocouple or thermopile. Ryan My Fireplace Guy can come to inspect your fireplace, clean it, and make suggestions for maintenance and repairs.

There’s a lot of soot on the glass

Too much soot means your gas fireplace isn’t burning correctly. Unlike wood fireplaces, there shouldn’t be soot buildup anywhere. It means your ceramic logs are in the wrong position and burning, or there’s an issue with the outside venting or fireplace interior. If there is soot, call in for service.

Trouble with the pilot light

The pilot light should essentially stay on between uses. When your gas fireplace works properly, you shouldn’t have to keep relighting it. If it doesn’t stay lit, it can mean a worn-out thermopile. Or, it could be faulty wiring or an issue with the gas line. If you’ve already gone through the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting the pilot light and still have problems, call Ryan My Fireplace Guy.

You’ve never had it serviced

If you’ve bought a home and inherited a gas fireplace or have never had your older fireplace serviced, it’s time to call in a pro! Your gas fireplace and its components will suffer wear and tear, just like any system. It needs maintenance to ensure secure gas connections, clean thermopile and thermocouple, and clean ceramic logs. Gas appliances are a luxury but require regular inspections and maintenance to be safe.

Fireplaces in Calgary

Ryan My Fireplace Guy Ltd. offers gas fireplace and other heating appliance sales, installation, and service. They serve Calgary and the surrounding area and can help you install or repair your gas fireplace. The owner, Ryan, is a highly trained and educated, certified gas fitter with more than 17 years of experience in the field. If you need a new fireplace or fireplace maintenance, you know who to call.

Connect with Ryan My Fireplace Guy!

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

Whether you brush off a new crack in the ceiling like it’s nothing or you get alarmed if a new crack appears, it is essential to know the difference between minor ceiling cracks and ceiling cracks that might indicate serious problems.

Are cracks in the ceiling normal?

Cracks in the ceiling are a normal occurrence and are often more of a cosmetic issue than a structure issue. However, some cracks in the ceiling might need immediate professional attention. If you need a professional to repair ceiling cracks, search no further than our London decorators, who can also fill cracks in walls and repair plaster walls.

How to tell if ceiling cracks are serious?

The seriousness of a ceiling crack will depend on the location, size and type. To give you a better idea (or some peace of mind!), we ranked different types of ceiling cracks from least to most serious:

1. Hairline cracks.

Hairline cracks are thin cosmetic cracks that are caused by temperature or humidity fluctuation. These fluctuations can result in plaster shrinkage or swelling, creating small fissures. Hairline cracks are simply an eyesore and can be easily fixed with a new coat of paint.

Small cracks might also appear on walls and ceilings due to layers of old paint. When a ceiling or wall has had multiple layers of paint, cracking might appear. If you want to repair hairline cracks fixed by old paint, be sure to remove old paint before applying a new coat.

1. Straight cracks.

Straight cracks often follow the edge of the drywall tape along the joint. These are most commonly the result of poor workmanship during drywall tape application when an insufficient amount of plaster is used making drywall tape unable to properly adhere to the joints.

2. Discoloured cracks.

   

Discoloured cracks, such as yellow cracks and brown cracks, are a sign of water damage. Even though these are not linked to structural damage, water damage might lead to more serious problems. We recommend contacting a professional plumber in London to determine the source of the water leak and repair it.

1. Spiderweb cracks.

Spiderweb cracks have a centre point and the cracks spread out from that centre point, much like a spider web would. Small spiderweb cracks are usually not serious and often the result of poor workmanship, however, larger spiderweb cracks may be caused by foundation settlement which might be linked to compromised structural integrity.

2. Cracks between the ceiling and wall.

Cracks that appear between the ceiling and wall might be caused by truss uplift. Roof trusses tend to slightly move due to temperature or humidity. However, cracks that run along the ceiling and continue down to the wall are a sign of structure damage, and should be dealt with in a timely manner.

3. Large, deep cracks.

Large, deep cracks are a serious concern. In case you have large, deep cracks alongside sagging ceilings, this means major structural damage that needs to be dealt with immediately as the ceiling may collapse.

Are cracks in the ceiling covered by insurance?

Cosmetic ceiling cracks are not typically covered by insurance. It is recommended to double-check your insurance policy to understand what type of ceiling cracks are covered by your home insurance.

Should I worry about cracks in my ceiling?

Small, thin ceiling cracks can be ignored or dealt with by applying a new lick of paint. However, when ceilings have multiple cracks that are more than just a tiny hairline crack, a professional should be called to diagnose the cause of the cracks and recommend a solution.

Can cracks in plaster ceiling be repaired?

Small cracks in plaster ceilings can be easily repaired by applying new plaster and repainting the ceilings. Larger cracks should be dealt with by a professional to ensure there are no structural concerns.

Can you paint over cracks in ceiling?

Hairline cracks can be quickly fixed with a fresh coat of paint.

Can cold weather cause cracks in ceiling?

Yes, change in temperature and humidity can cause cracks to form on walls and ceilings.

What causes cracks in the ceiling?

Ceiling cracks can be caused by a variety of issues:

• Normal wear and tear.
• Water damage.
• Heavy weight above.
• Poor workmanship.
• Structural problems.

If you recently found new ceiling cracks in your property and would like a second pair of eyes double-check the type of crack and recommend a solution, get in touch with our team. Give us a call on 0800-0-12-12-12 or, alternatively, request a free quote by filling our online booking form.

The post Causes of cracks in the ceiling and how to fix them appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Even a high-quality furnace model installed correctly can still have troubles without the proper maintenance. Common problems can be from wear and tear, but lack of maintenance or a secondary issue like a leak can also cause issues. Knowing what to look for will let you know if you need furnace repair in Calgary from Highcliffe Mechanical. 

The furnace is not producing enough heat

If you have your furnace turned on and to a high setting, but it’s not putting out adequate heat, there’s a problem. Likely, the issue is a dirty filter or an excess build-up of dust and dirt. It may also be the thermostat, so check it’s working and programmed correctly. If it’s under direct sunlight, it may be affecting the heat output by misreading the temperature. If it’s not the furnace, check there are no leaks in your home that let the heat escape.

Strange noises

Your furnace should run smoothly, especially with a high-efficiency model. Don’t ignore the sound if you hear any squeaking, rumbling, or grinding noises. Those are tell-tale noises of a mechanical problem, and you’ll need a repair. Not only is it affecting the airflow and output, but it could also be causing damage to the furnace. If a part is loose or damaged or can’t run because it’s not properly lubricated, it’ll cause those noises. These repairs shouldn’t be handled alone, so turn off the furnace and call HVAC companies in Calgary to help. They’ll safely handle the repairs and ensure your furnace is back to normal and safe to run.

Follow general maintenance

Even if you have a professional do a routine inspection every year, there are some DIY tasks that you can also do. For example, changing the filter every three months, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions, is one task that protects your furnace. A dirty or clogged filter not only pollutes the air but also makes the furnace work harder than necessary. That wear and tear will eventually wear out of the furnace. Another tip is to turn the furnace on at least once every season you’re not using it. Powering it up again lets you catch any problems early before you need it running full time.

Schedule professional inspections

In addition to a DIY check and minor repairs, you should invest in regular professional furnace service. An experienced professional will do a thorough inspection of your furnace. They may catch issues you missed before or do minor repairs that will prolong the life of your furnace. An HVAC technician will inspect all working components of your furnace and ducts, tune them up, and suggest repairs. An inspection is also a great chance to see about upgrading or replacing your furnace. If furnace repairs in Calgary are becoming a regular occurrence, a newer, more efficient model could save you more in the long run.

Need a furnace repair? Contact Highcliffe Mechanical today!

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

A leaky faucet may sound like a nuisance and nothing more, but they are more problematic. While it is a common problem for many homes, the damage it can cause is nothing to ignore. Hiring Calgary plumbers like Highcliffe Mechanical to repair the faucet right away is so important.

Wasted water

A small dripping may not seem like a big issue, but that little drip builds up over a year. Even just a small drip every ten to 15 seconds can equal half a gallon wasted a day or almost 15 gallons a month. And that’s just a small drip; faster or larger drips will lead to even more wasted water. Don’t ignore the numbers if you notice your monthly water bills are starting to climb higher. Take a look at your faucets and see if you can notice a leak anywhere. If not, still call in plumbers in Calgary to take an in-depth look. 

Water damage

Whether it’s a constant drip or a hidden leak in the pipes, that escaping water is going to cause damage. That might be a buildup of rust on a constantly leaking faucet, or it might be floor damage. If a leak goes unnoticed, that moisture can lead to mould growth and replacement costs. There are many health hazards caused by mould, and it will need to be remediated quickly. Rot is another risk, especially if the leak happens onto wood flooring. 

Causes of a leak

Knowing what can cause a leak is the first step in potentially avoiding one from happening. If it does happen, it will still help to know where to start looking first. Some common reasons are improperly installed faucets, wear and tear over the years, or corrosion. Corrosion-caused leaks, for example, will typically appear from the spout. If the water pressure is the cause, the faucet will only leak at certain points in the day. Typically, this will be when the water is being used for something or when the handle is pointed a certain way. 

Leave it to the pros

Whether you have located the source of a leak or suspect there might be one in your home, leave it to the pros. Plumbers in Calgary like Highcliffe mechanical are fully equipped with the right equipment to handle any leaking faucets and necessary repairs. They also have years of experience which guarantees a quality process from start to finish.

A qualified plumber will also guide or help suggest a better upgrade to a leaky faucet. While a repair will fix the problem, upgrading to a low-flow faucet or new model could save you much more in the long run. 

Need a leaky faucet fixed? Contact Highcliffe Mechanical today!

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

Investing in a furnace replacement will improve your home’s comfort, efficiency, and safety. A professional HVAC company will have the experience, know-how, and tools to handle the job safely and efficiently. HVAC Companies in Calgary like Highcliffe Mechanical offer professional furnace installation. Here’s why that’s important. 

Boosts safety

Getting a furnace installation in Calgary is more involved than unplugging the old one and putting in a new one. Understanding how all the parts work together to avoid a gas leak or loose parts is crucial for a safe installation. An experienced HVAC contractor has years of know-how when handling that work safely. They also have the necessary equipment for the job, so the cost of a professional is well worth the investment. Plus, HVAC installation requires a certified technician to do the installs to comply with the building code, manufacturer warranties, and most homeowners insurance policies. 

Improve efficiency

Next to keeping your home and self safe, a professional contractor will also boost your home’s efficiency. A trained and certified contractor will know precisely what tweaks or changes your home needs to start seeing better savings. They will help choose the right size, so it’s not too big and wasting energy or too small and overworking. If a specific model is better, your contractor will guide you through those options and the costs involved. After installation, you can rely on the company to handle any maintenance checks or repairs. With a trained touch, those check-ups will maintain the quality of your furnace for years.

Gain understanding

Once you hire a professional contractor, make the most of their knowledge and experience. That goes beyond just letting them handle the work but taking the time to ask questions. For example, find out what DIY maintenance checks you can do to keep your furnace in top condition between professional tune-ups. You can also ask what warning signs you should look for if something is wrong with your furnace? Finally, ask about what exactly goes into choosing an efficient model and how that will positively affect your home.

These questions and information will help you to make more informed decisions down the road. That way, next time you need a furnace replacement in Calgary, you can make sure you are choosing the best model for your home. You’ll also understand what needs to be done to maintain the furnace and optimize energy efficiency. 

Peace of mind

When you hire a professional to handle a furnace installation in Calgary, it’s also a guarantee of peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about any problems creeping up that require costly repairs to handle. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that professional work complies with manufacturer warranties, building codes, and home insurance policies. While the cost of a professional may seem like a lot, you can’t put a price on that peace of mind for years to come. So, it’s always a worthwhile investment to trust a professional.

Need a furnace installation? Contact Highcliffe Mechanical today!

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

Building a deck is a great way to add space and value and increase your enjoyment of your property. Having the work done by a professional will ensure safety, quality, and value for years to come. Finding the right contractor will ensure it’s built correctly, safely, and to your specific needs.

RKCR General Contracting in Winnipeg offers a professional deck building. They share more about what to look for in a qualified contractor:

Credentials

Always hire an insured contractor to avoid any unwanted legal troubles. A qualified contractor should have liability insurance and workman compensation insurance. If anything goes wrong on the job, that insurance will cover the cost and protect you as the homeowner. It’ll also ensure that your contractor knows all the laws, regulations, and permits surrounding building a new deck. Legitimate contractors will always be able to provide proof of these credentials.

Experience

An experienced deck contractor is a must, no matter how big or small your planned deck is. Experienced contractors will ensure your deck is sturdy, built to code, and complements your backyard design. That experience will also translate to deck design and recommended materials and techniques. They’ll take your ideas and goals and blend that with the best building approach for your new addition.

Range of materials

Just like a widely experienced contractor is best, look for a contractor that offers different deck materials. The versatility in options will make it easier when deciding the best look, style, and cost for your budget. Different decking materials also offer a unique look, benefit, or reason that better fits your needs. For example, you might choose composite decking for the low maintenance requirements if that is important to you. Other extras include privacy screens, deck covers, or stairs leading down to a lower level. Not all decks are a one-style-fits-all, so a diverse contractor will ensure you get that custom deck.

Communication

Good communication is crucial when looking for a contractor, especially when building something new. Communicating with your contractor starts when you hire them and discuss design plans and goals. Not only should they listen to your needs, but listening to them in turn as they give professional advice is just as key. Once the work begins, it’s still important to have that open communication. Who will provide updates during the job? If you have questions or concerns, who do you ask? Establishing those contacts will make the project much easier and stress-free.

Deck Builders in Winnipeg

Thank you for reading our blog! We know your time is valuable, perhaps the most valuable thing you have! Don’t waste your time by calling a fly-by-nighter. We know you work hard for your money, and so will we. We do it right…the first time, guaranteed!

Contact RKCR General Contracting today!

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

Spring is quickly approaching and that means it is time to take care of our homes. From cleaning the gutters to cutting back the overgrown shrubs, there are plenty of things we can do that will improve the look and feel of our home while also helping us to save money in the process. Some projects are quick and easy, like power washing down driveways, while others require more effort but yield better results such as replacing your windows or improving a porch railing. Whatever your home improvement goals are, the following spring home maintenance projects are the best tasks to get you started.

Gutter Maintenance

All of us who live in areas that receive a lot of snow and rain know all too well just how important having good gutters is. During the winter, they help to prevent overflow that might lead to leaks in your basement or seeping into your walls. In the summer, they keep your basement dry and prevent water from seeping into the foundation of your home. Before you can replace or repair existing gutters, you must know what is wrong with them which requires having them cleaned out. If you don’t regularly clean out your gutters, you might be asking for trouble sooner than later. While cleaning out your gutters is a simple process, it does involve getting on a ladder and lugging heavy objects around the exterior of your home. If you are not too keen on heights or carrying heavy things, then we suggest getting some help from a family member or friend. Once the gutters are clear of debris and leaf matter, you should replace any that are rotting or have holes that need closing with new ones. Doing so will extend the life of your gutters which is why doing so now while they are easy to access is a great idea. If you are going to have your gutters replaced, then you may want to consider an eco-friendlier option such as copper. Copper gutters last longer and require less maintenance than aluminum ones. It is also worth noting that with aluminum gutters, the paint often peels off which can lead to premature wear and tear of your home.

Windows and Doors

One of the first things we see when we look at a house is how clean or dirty everything is on the outside of it. In other words, if the exterior of your home has dirty windows and doors that are worn out then they will negatively impact its resale value in the future. You do not need to spend a lot when it comes to replacing doors and windows, but you should at least try to buy ones that are energy efficient. If you live in an area that gets lots of heat or cold, then it would be worth your while to invest in energy-efficient windows and doors so they can help to keep the temperature inside your house more consistent. Windows come in many different styles, colors, shapes, and materials which is why it is best you choose a type that fits with the architectural style of your home.

Painting 

Over time, paint will chip and fade which is why it is best that you regularly maintain it. One of the first things to do when maintaining paint is to use a roller or brush to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. Once this is done, you can begin painting again if necessary. 

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 home maintenance services.

The post <strong>Home Maintenance Projects Perfect for the Spring</strong> appeared first on Handyman Corporate.

Whether it’s the plumbing, heating, a room or the whole home, renovations and remodels are different things. Of course, both have advantages, but a renovation isn’t the same as a remodel. Knowing the difference will make the planning easier and ensure you get maximum value. 

OTG Renovations in Winnipeg are a professional renovations company. They share the difference between a renovation or remodel and can help you plan your next major home project. 

Renovation

When talking about a renovation, the key difference is the original structure of your home is not changed. Instead, things are updated, like getting new lighting or a better furnace or kitchen cabinets. Renovations help upgrade and update the space without needing drastic structural overhauls. It also requires fewer people, possibly fewer or no permits, and doesn’t cost as much as a significant remodel. A minor renovation can add significant value to your home and fit your budget without as much disruption to your home and daily life. 

Remodel

Anything that changes the structure, layout, or floor plan is a remodel. That could mean tearing down a wall to create an open layout dining and kitchen space. If you want to change the bathroom to be more modern with dual vanities and a spacious shower area, a remodel can do just that. A significant home remodel could also be a home addition or gutting a space down to the studs for a complete rebuild. While they are more expensive and need permits and extra labour, it has excellent ROI. If you’re planning to sell or preparing to age-in-place, a remodel can turn your home into exactly what you need. 

Work with the pros

If you’re upgrading your home, it’s essential that you work with an experienced and professional general contractor. They can help you get the most out of your renovation dollars, whether you’re doing a simple upgrade or a major overhaul. OTG Renovations offers a range of home upgrade services and helpful guidance. For example, they can provide complete kitchen remodels, bathroom and basement renovations. In addition, they’ll manage the project from start to finish and offer tips for the best return on investment.

They also offer HVAC services like air conditioning and furnace repairs and installation, hot water installation and more. That means they can provide services for aesthetic and functional changes while helping you improve your home’s mechanical systems, safety, and efficiency.

As a fully licensed and bonded company with professional training and certification, you can trust OTG Renovations. Working with a trusted company with the right experience and know-how is key to any successful project. They also offer free quotes, so you can get an idea of what your renovation or remodel will cost before getting started. 

General Contractors in Winnipeg

OTG Renovations is a family-owned business that treats its customers with care, honesty and open communication. They always place the customer first and strive to create a professional renovation experience on time and exceed your expectations. Whether you need a home renovation, new addition, some guidance or HVAC help, their team can help.

Contact OTG Construction today!

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

Spray foam insulation is one of the best insulation options on the market. It serves multiple purposes, including high thermal performance, strengthening walls, and acting as an airtight seal and vapour barrier.

Advanced Insulation offers spray foam insulation in Winnipeg. They share why you should choose spray form for your building project:

Advanced thermal performance

If you want to cut down on your energy bills, spray foam insulation can help. It has a high R-value per inch, providing more thermal performance with less material than any other type of insulation product on the market. Spray foam also creates an air barrier and vapour barrier simultaneously. Doing so eliminates air leakage, energy loss, and moisture build-up. Preventing moisture build-up can also help prevent mould and mildew growth. Both are hazardous to your health.

Insulation contractors in Winnipeg can install spray foam insulation to improve your home’s energy efficiency dramatically. As a result, you’ll see less strain on your heating and cooling system, lower energy bills, and improved home comfort.

You can install spray foam nearly anywhere

A major benefit of spray foam insulation is that it can go into awkward spaces, nooks and crannies, and anywhere traditional insulation products cannot. For example, spray foam works great in crawl spaces, attics, ceilings, rooftops, and other hard-to-reach places. Insulation contractors in Winnipeg can also install it around attic hatches, behind knee walls, wiring and plumbing holes, recessed lighting, and other areas that are culprits for air leaks and energy loss. It goes on in a liquid form, fills every gap, and then hardens to provide an airtight thermal barrier.

You can get a rebate!

When you install spray foam insulation in Winnipeg, you may be eligible for an Efficiency Manitoba rebate. This rebate is available to Manitobans who make green upgrades that help reduce energy consumption. For example, adding insulation to foundation walls, wall cavities, and ceilings can help you qualify for rebates of up to 100% of insulation materials.

Advanced Insulation can inspect your home and provide a detailed estimate for the insulation upgrade. Then, they can determine the amount of work eligible for the rebate, calculate the rebate amount, and help you complete the application process. Check out the Efficiency Manitoba Home Insulation Rebate.

Get started with Advanced Insulation

Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for new home builds and construction projects, retrofits, and renovations. If you want to boost energy efficiency, thermal performance, and home comfort, reach out to Advanced Insulation to learn more about spray foam insulation.

Contact them today!

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

Your staircase and railings play a significant role in your home’s interior appearance and design. Sure, stairs need to play a functional role, but why not give them a little style?

Artistic Stairs in Calgary and Edmonton are your premier source for stairs, spindles, railings, banisters, and more! They share how a staircase can create a focal point with these creative stairs and railings trends.

1. Wood steps and handrail with white balusters

Keeping things simple can go a long way. Keep the rich, natural tone of your wood steps and handrail, and pair it with white risers and balusters. You can paint your current balusters white or replace them with new ones. The white features will make that beautifully polished wood pop.

2. Horizontal railings

Typically a staircase will have balusters that run up and down, but what about ones that run horizontally. This modern railing style offers excellent visual appeal with clean lines and minimalist style. Your horizontal railings can be a solid bar of metal or wood or a metal cable. Horizontal railings are safe, practical, and offer a unique change compared to traditional vertical railing systems.

3. Unique metal spindles with a wood handrail

Combining metal and wood creates a timeless look that you’ll love for years to come. Choose from a selection of unique, intricate spindles to create a pattern heading up the stairs. For example, you can have straight metal spindles, with every third spindle having a twist or unique design. Black spindles will give an elegant look when paired with a dark wood rail.

4. Glass railings for a modern look

Glass railings are increasing in popularity. Totally customizable, glass creates a sleek look and is easy to maintain. It is simple and elegant and complements a range of design styles, including modern, contemporary, and traditional. Its transparency can make a narrow staircase feel wider and the room more spacious. You can combine glass with metal or wood rails and choose from different tints or transparencies. Artistic Stairs can customize your glass staircase railings to match your home’s interior design style.

5. Spiral staircases give a visual twist

Thanks to the popularity of open floor plans, spiral staircases are becoming more popular in homes. Stair builders can customize a spiral staircase to match any interior design style. For example, you can have wooden steps with a metal frame and railing system. Or, your spiral staircase can have a wood handrail and glass panels to create a wide-open look. Depending on your home’s layout, a spiral staircase can also be a solution if you lack space for a large built-in staircase.

For more inspiration, check out these trendy stairs and railings ideas.

Stairs and Railings in Calgary and Edmonton

Artistic Stairs offers custom stairs and railings built and installed by skilled craftsmen. They take pride in their work, are detail-oriented, and can help you design your stairs and railing renovation. Visit their showrooms in Calgary and Edmonton, view their style gallery online, and start planning.

Contact Artistic Stairs for a free consultation or quote!

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