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It’s no secret that Toronto property owners have found it more difficult to sustain city living with current real estate prices and interest rates. The same goes for potential buyers trying to break into the market. Fortunately, there are solutions that can help.

TroCanada in Toronto are experienced home builders and renovators that help homeowners add value, function and beauty to their properties. Here they share the benefits of adding a laneway home or basement suite to your property to help make Toronto living more affordable.

Earn additional income

Laneway homes — also known as alley houses and coach houses — are small dwellings built on the property of a primary dwelling. Contractors build these residential dwellings in the alleyways behind homes in cityscapes. These small homes usually range in size from about 500 to 1200 square feet. Garden suites are similar. They are self-contained living units that contractors build in the backyard of a home. Property owners can rent these suites out to earn additional income. This can help pay your mortgage or generate passive income while living in the city.

Don’t have space for a laneway or garden suite on your Toronto property? No problem! Add a basement suite instead. They offer the same benefits as a laneway home when it comes to earning additional income. Contractors can also build basement suits with separate entrances. In addition, they’ll know what to include in your basement secondary suite to help attract quality tenants and yield maximum revenue.

TroCanada comes to the home addition industry with over 20 years of experience. They can build a laneway or garden suite or a basement rental unit to help increase your income!

Excellent return on investment

One thing is certain, adding a laneway suite or basement rental unit offers a great ROI. If you plan on selling in the future, a suite will also increase your property value. Your contractor will build a separate living area in your home, which future owners can use as a rental suite. They can also use it as a separate living space for in-laws or college-age kids.

TroCanada can build up-to-code basement suites with separate entrances, so you can keep your privacy and earn back your investment and then some. Furthermore, if it’s a laneway or garden suite you’re interested in, TroCanada can walk you through the whole process. From design to finished product, they’ve got you covered!

Age in Place

For older couples and singles looking to downsize but stay in the city, building a garden or basement suite is a great idea. Your contractor can build you the laneway suite of your dreams, so you can enjoy the benefits of downsizing. Then, you can rent out your main home and earn extra income beyond what you could for renting out your basement or garden suite.

TroCanada will help you understand the ins and outs of building a laneway or basement suite on your property. Toronto has its own regulations and guidelines for building both. As a result, navigating construction can be tricky. With TroCanada at your side, they can help you understand your property’s eligibility, any size restrictions and more.

Laneway Homes in Toronto

TroCanada has both the experience and the expertise to build your laneway or garden suite. In recent years, with new zoning and by-laws in place, more and more people are taking advantage of laneway and garden suites. However, there is an approval process and many area-specific codes a builder must adhere to. TroCanada is well-versed in the variances across Toronto. With 20 years of experience in the home addition and renovation industry, TorCanada can also offer a range of other services. These include basement developments, kitchen and bathroom renovations and more!

Reach out to TroCanada today!

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

Spring is in the air and homeowners are making their summer renovation plans. Some focus on exterior renovations in the summertime. However, don’t discount a spring or summer interior project like renovating your basement!

Bond Contracting and Construction Inc. in Calgary shares three reasons to renovate your basement as soon as you can.

Customize your space

With a vision and a great contractor behind you, it’s possible to radically change your basement. It can go from a space for storage to one of the most used areas of the home. Create a recreation space for your family. Or, build yourself a home office. If you’ve always wanted a real home gym, a great contractor can make it happen!

Bond Contracting and Construction Inc. specializes in custom basement renovations. From building new basement layouts to designing a brand-new recreation space you’ll love, the sky is the limit.

Increase property value

A finished basement can nearly double a home’s functional living space. This is a great benefit just on its own. Nevertheless, more usable square footage in your home will also increase your property’s value. Along with kitchen and bathroom renovations, basement renovations are a big draw if you are considering selling in the future. An updated finished basement translates into one less job a potential buyer will have to do if they move in.

Getting that living space completed this summer means you can enjoy it when you spend more time indoors during the winter. Bond Contracting and Construction Inc. can use their experience and expertise to help you design a new basement that will bring the best ROI while adding value to your lifestyle too.

Turn your basement into a secondary suite

These days, many homeowners are looking to increase their income by utilizing their property. If you have a basement that is underutilized, consider turning it into a legal secondary suite. A rental suite will bring in passive income that you can use to pay off your mortgage, save to buy another property, invest for retirement and more! Bond Contracting and Construction Inc. can add a separate walk-out entrance and ensure everything in the suite is code-compliant so your suite is 100% legal. In no time, you’ll be able to find a renter and begin to earn more!

Basement Renovations in Calgary

Bond Contracting Construction Inc. was founded by Darwin Bond in 2000. Darwin Bond is a qualified journeyman carpenter with many years of experience handling general contracting, project management and remodelling. He also uses a team of qualified tradespeople to ensure your renovation project remains positive and stress-free from beginning to end. In addition, Bond Contracting Construction Inc. works with trusted sub-contractors and suppliers so that the end results always exceed expectations. This company is an active member of the Calgary Region Home Builders Association as well as a preferred RONA contractor.

Call Bond Contracting Construction Inc. today to transform your basement into one of the most used spaces in your home!

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

Maybe you’ve been thinking about renovations for a while or just got a great idea for a home upgrade. Either way, hiring a trusted contractor to remodel your home brings many benefits that are both aesthetic and functional.

In this article, Access City Projects in Chilliwack shares some of the reasons why renovating your home this year is a great idea.

Fresh look

Whether you’ve been living in your home for a while or have just bought a new place, renovating provides the opportunity to add an updated look that is all you. Perhaps you’re living in a home with outdated design features? Or, maybe you just really want to brighten up your kitchen or living room? No matter the reason, you can completely transform the look and feel of your home with a quality renovation.

Access City Projects is ready to make your renovation dreams come true! Whether it’s a new bathroom you’ve got your heart set on or an entire home remodel, Access City Projects has both the experience and expertise to deliver outstanding results.

Improved Functionality

Innovation in home design and technology is ever-growing. As a result, when you embark on a home renovation, you can make huge functionality improvements. For example, updated sinks in bathrooms and kitchens are easier to use and keep clean. New shower and bath designs help keep mould out better than ever before. Advances in cupboard technology take kitchen organization to the next level. If you are hoping to age in place, you can still live in a home with all the modern amenities when you renovate.

Access City Projects can retrofit the spaces in your home. This way, you’ll feel like you’re living in the present instead of the decades of yesteryear. Access City Projects also brings first-hand experience to the accessibility design industry. If you have people in your home in need of modern accessibility solutions, Access City Projects can help.

Increase your property value

Whether you’re looking to sell shortly or not, home renovations will help increase your property value. A kitchen renovation can increase the value of your home quite a lot, depending on the state it was in before and what you decide to do. In addition, bathroom renovations will also increase the value of your home. If your basement is unfinished or outdated, a basement renovation can also offer a significant return on investment.

Access City Projects specializes in bathroom and kitchen restoration and refurbishment. They also have experience working on a wide range of other home improvement projects. Give them a call today to discuss the renovation work you have in mind!

General Contractors in Chilliwack

Access City Projects believes that every person, no matter their ability, should feel comfortable in their own home. As a result, they offer accessibility consulting as well as building maintenance and renovation services to their clients. Their team has worked in various trades for a combined 25+ years. Thanks to their wealth of knowledge and experience, they can offer many accessibility solutions for the home. On top of this, they can provide fresh and modern home renovations.

Call Access City Projects today!

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

Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, and a damaged or deteriorating roof can lead to significant problems. If you have an older roof, there could be tell-tale signs it is time for a replacement.

Sunwest Roofing Corp. in Calgary is an expert in roofing repairs, roof replacement, and siding services. Here they share how to tell your old roof needs replacing.

Your roof is old

The age of your roof is the most significant factor in determining whether it needs to be replaced. Most roofs last between 20 and 25 years when installed properly. If your roof is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time to replace it.

Granule loss

Asphalt shingles are coated in granules that protect them from the sun and provide a decorative finish. Unfortunately, older roofs will start to experience granule loss. If you notice granules in your gutters or on the ground around your home, it could be a sign that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Missing or damaged shingles

If your roof has missing or damaged shingles, it can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks and water damage. Shingles can start to peel or curl up over time, especially on south-facing slopes. Unfortunately, this long-term exposure to the sun is inevitable when your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Hail storms and other extreme weather can cause damage to shingles, including impact damage, granule loss, and sealant damage. If you suspect your roof has worn over the years, or received damage from the weather, contact Sunwest Roofing for an inspection. Read more about identifying hail damage on the roof.

Leaks

If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, it could be a sign of a leaky roof. Roof leaks can cause significant damage to your home and, if left unaddressed, can lead to mould growth. Water damage spreads quickly, and the longer you leave it, the more expensive the repairs. Address potential leaks as soon as possible.

Check the warranty

If your roof has damage or needs replacing, check the warranty. Often, shingles come with a warranty of 20 to 30 years. If you’ve replaced the roof in that time while owning your property, you could be covered. In addition, most roofs have transferable warranties. That means it’s possible that your roof is covered, even if the previous owner replaced it. If you were given warranty documents when you bought your home, read over those carefully to see if your roof is covered.

Sunwest Roofing Corp. offers up to 50-year prorated warranties on roofing products. Additionally, they offer flexible financing options. This allows you to finance your new roof as soon as possible, so you can ensure your home is protected and covered for years to come.

Roofing in Calgary

Sunwest Roofing Corp. offers a range of exterior renovation services, including roof replacements and repairs and siding. They work directly with their clients to ensure they get exactly what they need. In addition, their prices are less expensive than others on the market, and they stand by their competitive prices and top-quality services. If you need hail damage repairs, a new roof, or siding, you can trust the professionals at Sunwest Roofing!

Contact Sunwest Roofing today!

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

Even if you already have a decent garage opener and garage door, there are advantages to upgrading. In this article, Mr. Garage Doors in Calgary shares a few of the (many) benefits of replacing your garage door and opener

Curb appeal

A new garage door can bring a whole new look to your home’s exterior. In part, this is because your garage door can take up a large portion of your home’s exterior design. Replacing your garage door with a new design that adds more character can significantly impact curb appeal. Also, garage door design, as well as function, have come a long way. Carriage-style garage doors are a popular choice for traditional homes. For a modern look, aluminum-and-glass doors offer a bold new style.

Mr. Garage Doors uses Amarr garage doors to replace old, outdated and even cracked garage doors. Amarr has been manufacturing garage doors since 1951, and they build their doors for durability as well as curb appeal.

Smooth operator

When you replace your garage door, you will also replace its opening mechanism. This brings many benefits on its own, including added security. Another benefit is a smooth, quiet garage opening experience. The last thing anyone wants is a garage door opener that sounds like it’s bringing down the house every time it opens or closes. If you have kids and come home after they’re in bed, this can be quite a disturbance. New openers are built with this in mind. Replace yours to enjoy seamless garage door opening and closing that won’t disturb your household.

Mr. Garage Doors is known for providing the best garage door replacement and repair. They are also known for their garage door system installations. Reach out today to discuss how they can help upgrade your garage door!

Excellent ROI

A garage door replacement might not be the first thing that comes to mind for great ROI. However, replacing your garage door offers an outstanding return. In fact, recent 2023 data from Remodelling shows that a garage door replacement provides an ROI that is more than the initial cost of replacement. This means a garage door replacement is an excellent choice if you’re looking for ways to renovate that bring in the highest return.

Garage Doors and Openers in Calgary

Mr. Garage Doors has been serving Western Canada for over 21 years. Through this time, they have grown to become a leader in the garage door industry in Calgary. They use a team of experienced technicians to provide garage door repair and replacement services to their customers. Their garage door technicians work with both residential and commercial garage doors. On top of providing installation and repair services, Mr. Garage Doors also provides maintenance services. They will work to improve your home’s curb appeal, security, and so much more.

Call Mr. Garage Doors today!

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

As a resident or business owner in London, you may find yourself in need of a lock change at some point. Whether it’s because you’ve lost your keys, your lock is broken, or you simply want to upgrade your security, it’s essential to know when to call a locksmith to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently. 

One sign that you need a lock change in London is if your lock is broken or damaged. A damaged lock can compromise the security of your property, making it easier for intruders to gain access. In this case, it’s essential to call a locksmith as soon as possible to repair or replace the lock. 

Another sign that you need a lock change is if you’ve lost your keys or suspect they may have been stolen. In this case, it’s important to change your locks to prevent any unauthorized access to your property. Our team of locksmiths in London can advise you on the best locks to install and help you with the installation process. 

If you’ve just moved into a new property or have experienced a change in occupancy, it’s also a good idea to consider a lock change. This will ensure that only you and the people you trust have access to your property. Our locksmiths can help you choose the right locks and install them correctly to ensure your security. 

At Handy Squad, we provide lock change services, our list of covered postcode areas includes North, West, East, and South London, as well as Surrey. We understand that lock emergencies can happen anytime, which is why we offer a 24/7 service to ensure that our clients are never left stranded. 

If you need a lock change in London, don’t hesitate to contact Handy Squad. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you with any lock-related issue, and we guarantee a quick and efficient service. Click here to learn more about our services and the areas we cover. 

The post Knowing When to Call a Locksmith appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

Dealing with a blocked toilet is something no one wants to experience, but it’s an unfortunate reality that can happen to anyone. If you live in London and have a blocked toilet, you may be wondering what to do next and when to contact the professionals. Here are some tips and tricks to help you unblock your toilet and when to get an expert in. 

Use a Plunger: 

The first thing you should try is using a plunger. Make sure you have a plunger that is specifically designed for toilets, as they are larger and have a different shape than sink plungers. Place the plunger over the toilet hole and pump it up and down to create suction. This will help to dislodge the blockage. 

Use Hot Water: 

If the plunger doesn’t work, try pouring hot water into the toilet bowl. The hot water can help to break up the blockage and move it down the pipes. Be careful not to pour boiling water, as this can crack the toilet bowl. Warm water will suffice. 

Use Dish Soap: 

Another trick you can try is to add some dish soap to the toilet bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then pour hot water into the bowl. The soap can help to lubricate the pipes and make it easier for the blockage to move. 

Use a Toilet Auger: 

If the above tricks don’t work, you may need to use a toilet auger, which is a tool designed specifically for unblocking toilets. It’s a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like end that you insert into the toilet and twist to dislodge the blockage.

Call a Plumber: 

If none of the above trick’s work, it’s time to call in the professionals. A blocked toilet plumber in London can help to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently. At Handy Squad our plumbers and handymen are only a phone call away, with emergency call outs available.  

A blocked toilet can be frustrating and unpleasant, but there are several tips and tricks you can try to unblock your toilet. If none of these tips help and you live in London, consider contacting Handy Squad’s blocked toilet plumber services at for a quick and reliable fix. 

The post 5 Effective Tips and Tricks to Unblock a Toilet appeared first on Handy Squad Handyman London | Fast & Reliable London Handyman.

If you’re upgrading your home with increasing resale value in mind, some home renovations have a higher return on investment (ROI) than others. However, it’s important to note that the ROI of any renovation project can vary depending on various factors. These factors include the quality of materials used, the level of craftsmanship, and the local real estate market conditions.

Blackwood Contracting in Calgary is a full-scale renovation company that can improve your home’s aesthetics, function, and value. They share five home renovations that have an excellent return on investment:

1. Kitchen Renovations

A kitchen renovation can significantly improve the look and functionality of your home, making it more appealing to potential buyers. In addition, upgrading appliances, cabinets, countertops, and lighting can contribute to a higher ROI. In fact, according to Remodeling’s cost vs. value report for 2023, a minor kitchen renovation can add over 85% of its cost to the resale value of your home. That is an incredible return!

2. Bathroom Renovations

As one of the most often used rooms in a house, bathrooms are another area that can greatly benefit from renovations. Upgrades such as new fixtures, tiles, lighting, and adding additional storage space can attract potential buyers and make your home a real market contender. In addition, a mid-range bathroom remodel can recover nearly 67% of its cost at resale.

3. Basement Renovations

Finishing your basement can add valuable living space to your home. In some cases, you can nearly double your functional living space. A finished basement can be used as a recreation room, home office, or additional bedroom. Future buyers will appreciate the complete basement, which adds so much to a home. The most recent data shows basement renovations having a 70% cost vs. value percentage.

4. Outdoor Renovations

Curb appeal is essential when it comes to selling your home. Exterior upgrades like a new entry door, siding, or garage door if you have an attached garage can significantly improve curb appeal. All three of those upgrades can recover 100% or more of their cost at resale, according to the cost vs. value report.

In addition, upgrading your outdoor space by adding a deck, patio, or landscaping can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to buyers. Everyone loves the idea of spending time in the yard and enjoying the great outdoors close to home!

5. Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Green home upgrades are increasing in popularity. Homeowners want to save money on energy and do their part to minimize their impact on the planet. Energy-efficient upgrades such as upgrading your insulation, installing new windows, or upgrading your HVAC system can make your home more energy-efficient. Additionally, green home upgrades attract buyers looking for eco-friendly homes that reduce spending on rising energy costs.

Learn about the Canada Greener Homes Grant and how some of your green retrofits could be eligible for rebates and other incentives.

Home Renovations in Calgary

Blackwood Contracting can help you create unique spaces in which you and your family will thrive! They offer complete home renovation services, including kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, and basement development. They’re dedicated to high-quality work, exceptional customer service, and ensuring you’re happy with the finished product.

If you’re ready to renovate, contact Blackwood Contracting today!

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

Replacing concrete is a large, time-consuming, and costly job. Freeze/thaw cycles in Calgary are among the highest in North America. Each freeze/thaw cycle can damage and weaken your concrete. Concrete sealing not only protects and slows damage caused by mother nature, it also provides a better curb appeal.

GlossWorks Alberta Ltd. in Calgary has sealed various residential concrete and therefore helped numerous homeowners see the process’ benefits.

Benefits of sealing concrete

1. Concrete protection

Concrete sealing protects your driveway, patio, steps, or concrete surface from three significant elements. First, concrete sealing helps protect surfaces against freeze and thaw cycles. And we know these can be extreme cycles in Calgary. Second, the sealant protects the surface from moisture. And lastly, it protects the surface from yellowing under UV rays.

2. Avoid and save on repairs

Concrete sealing with all the protection will help you avoid future damage to places like your driveway or patio. And with the damaged concrete in Calgary could receive, these savings may mean a lot.

3. Sealing is a relatively quick process

Concrete sealing is especially quick when compared to all-out replacements. The sealing process used by the trusted professionals at GlossWorks Alberta only takes four hours to dry enough to allow foot traffic.

4. Highlights and improves the look of concrete

Concrete sealing has many practical and functional benefits. Moreover, concrete sealing can also bring out and beautify the surface’s features. The concrete seal will highlight the colour of exposed aggregate and stone. The seal will also give the surface a smoother look and eliminate any dullness. Concrete seals may also be used to add colour to the surface.

5. Better surface friction

Friction is essential for all concrete surfaces in terms of safety. More specifically, the friction values of a surface that see pedestrian and vehicle traffic are essential. You want any surface or space in your home to feel its safest. And sealing concrete can help. The Supershield Polyurethane Sealer used by GlossWorks Alberta with an anti-slip additive will increase the friction of driveways, sidewalks, or steps around your home. This can make it easier to pull into your driveway in wet or icy conditions. It can also help avoid slips and falls.

Concrete in Calgary

Concrete sealing is a great and comparably simple way to improve a home’s exterior. GlossWorks Albert Ltd. in Calgary offers concrete sealing services and restoration. They work on improving the look and durability of concrete also includes polishing, concrete repairs, and resurfacing. As a family-owned and operated company, GlossWorks offers its services in Alberta and Saskatchewan. They are committed to concrete craftsmanship, finding the most innovative products, and professionalism on every job.

Contact GlossWorks Alberta Ltd. today for any concrete improvement needs.

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

Stucco Can Be Painted! Because of the poor and incorrect paint used to paint stucco in the past and the bad results seen after a couple of years, people have become more hesitant to paint stucco. However, the quality of paint, along with many construction materials, has dramatically improved, and painting your stucco or masonry walls with good quality stucco-designed paints can last many years.

There are widespread rumours that painting stucco stops walls from breathing and traps moisture which can cause rot and paint to peel. However, the high-quality stucco paints we use are designed specifically to allow walls to breathe while repelling water and keeping moisture out. This is especially beneficial because stucco absorbs water and runs the risk of getting into windows or any openings after many years.

Stucco is a versatile exterior house material thanks to its durability and ease of maintenance. Unfortunately, as time passes, any exterior material will show its age. This can be especially true for materials faced with Edmonton weather and extreme temperature ranges. Consider having it painted!

Moreno Stucco & Wire Ltd. in Edmonton specializes in stucco application, painting, and repairing older stucco systems. Over their 17 years in the stucco business, they have helped many homeowners save their original stucco with paint. There are major pros to repainting stucco.

Benefits of Painting Stucco

1. Avoid the Costly Work of Starting from Scratch

Reapplying stucco can be a costly endeavour. Before any stucco application takes place, the stucco contractors will need to remove all the old material. However, you can hire a stucco contractor in Edmonton like Moreno Stucco & Wire to restore your existing surface at a fraction of the cost of replacing the stucco.

2. Maximize the lifespan of stucco

Stucco last up to 80 years as an effective exterior material. However, that stucco needs to be maintained properly for maximum lifespan. Repainting the stucco after every 10-15 years is a good rule of thumb for maximizing the years of use from the mostly cement material.

3. Give the home’s exterior a new Curb appeal

Hiring professional stucco contractors to complete the repainting guarantees that the finished product will look clean, seamless, and exactly how you want. Beyond improving the house’s look, the painting process allows the stucco contractors to notice and repair any damage or after window replacement. Stucco painting can come in handy for those looking to sell their house, as improved exteriors generally help resale values and curb appeal

4. New windows and new exterior

Almost every older home needs to have windows replaced in order to improve the R-value, functionality, and modern look. When replacing or moving windows, the best way is to hang them using the window flange/ nailing fins. This can only be done by cutting back stucco the stucco. Repairing and painting the stucco will make the entire exterior look new, and repairs should not be noticeable if done by experienced professionals.

Stucco in Edmonton

The family-owned Moreno Stucco & Wire Ltd. in Edmonton has served the city for over 17 years. They are full-service exterior renovation experts who specialize in stucco. Painting stucco requires careful consideration, and the Moreno team ensures all parts of the job are done carefully and correctly. Plus, Moreno can assist with complete exterior renovations. These include window replacement, stone masonry, soffit & eavestrough replacement, roofing, metal and Hardie siding and general carpentry.

Call Moreno Stucco & Wire today to discuss painting your stucco!

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