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Your roof is one of the most important pieces of your home. After all, it protects you and your home from the elements. Rain, snow, ice and more, your roof is against so much. As a result, you want to ensure you are taking care of your roof and making the necessary repairs and replacements when they are needed. That’s why finding a great roofing contractor is so important.

In this article, Anco Home Improvements Ltd in Edmonton shares some tips to help you find an excellent roofing contractor.

Check for insurance and licensing

First things first, before you begin to collect quotes from roofing contractors, you want to do background checks. Roofing can be a dangerous job, and the last thing anyone wants is for a worker to get injured. Even worse is if the company doesn’t have proper insurance. Do your research and check that the company you’re considering has proper licensing, insurance and WCB coverage. Any legal or financial background checks will also help you determine just how trustworthy the company is.

Anco Home Improvements Ltd. is a family-owned and operated company. They are fully licensed and insured. Furthermore, they only use certified roofers. Their highly-trained professionals provide outstanding roofing services to homeowners in Edmonton.

Find a contractor that can offer a variety of solutions

Each roofing project is unique. The repairs needed will be unique too. Also, when it comes time for a roof replacement, you want to ensure your contractor can offer the best and most affordable solutions for your home. This is much easier to do when your roofing contractor works with a range of materials and can offer many solutions.

Anco Home Improvements Ltd. can offer a wide variety of roofing solutions. They also use a wide selection of materials. For example, they work with asphalt shingles, cedar shake, and metal and rubber roofing.

Can they provide functional and aesthetic roof replacements?

When it’s time to replace your old roof, you want your new roof to last. However, you also want it to look its best. A roof replacement is an investment, but it will also increase the value of your home. When looking for a roofing company in Edmonton, make sure they can offer quality solutions and provide services that will improve the exterior decor of your property.

Anco Home Improvements Ltd. uses certified roof installers who will deliver high-quality work. In addition, they will ensure the end result is a new roof that looks stunning and fresh!

Roofing in Edmonton

Anco Home Improvements Ltd. is a top roofing contractor in Edmonton. They have been in business for over 40 years. Through the years, they have continued to evolve to provide innovative technology. On top of this, they make it their mission to deliver efficient and reliable roofing services that are also cost-effective. Other services they provide include soffit, fascia and eavestrough installation. Additionally, they offer siding installation services, window installation and concrete and interior work.

Call Anco Home Improvements Ltd. today to discuss your next roofing project!

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

A custom home is a dream come true for many. For others, it may be a dream that seems out of reach. Budget is often a factor here. The thing is, even on a budget, with the right planning and the right help, you may still be able to manifest your luxury custom home.

In this article, Best Built Construction Group in the Greater Vancouver area, shares some insight on how you can turn your custom home vision into reality.

The lock-up stage

For those who want to buy a custom home, getting a bank loan is often what stops them. This is because banks won’t often agree to a loan for a custom home until the lock-up stage. Lock-up is a term used to describe the building stage when a home can be locked up. In other words, a home will reach the lock-up stage when the walls, windows and doors are in place, and then you can lock up the property. When banks will only offer loans at this stage, it can present a problem for those who can’t fund their custom home project before the lock-up stage.

Find the right financing

If this is a problem you’re facing, Best Built Construction Group has a solution. As part of their financing, they offer an initial construction loan. This means that if your bank will not provide a loan until the lock-up stage, Best Built Construction Group can help you get there. As a result, you won’t have to kiss your custom home dream goodbye. Instead, you will have proper financing to move forward with your vision.

Contractor experience

Another big factor in helping to make your custom home dreams a reality is choosing the right contractor. It’s crucial that you find a contractor you can trust. Moreover, when it comes to building your custom home, you want to find a contractor with lots of experience. This way, you know the building of your new home will be in good hands.

Best Built Construction Group comes to the custom home and home renovation space with over 30 years of experience! As a result, they can provide outstanding workmanship and customer service. They are ready to design and build you a home that will be your sanctuary.

Home Builders in the Greater Vancouver Area

Best Built Construction Group uses its over 30 years of experience to build custom homes throughout the Lower Mainland. They build high-end homes, but they also work on affordable housing renovations. This company also commits to finishing projects on time, so you don’t have to wait to enjoy the end results. Furthermore, happy customers are what drives their business. At Best Built Construction Group, their number one goal is to go above and beyond client expectations.

Call Best Built Construction Group today to discuss your custom dream home!

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

If you have a gourmet kitchen in your home and love cooking, picking the right countertop is essential. Different materials like granite, quartz, or marble have various benefits depending on your cooking style. So, balancing looks with function is vital.

VE Stone Ltd. in Surrey is a full-scale natural stone countertop facility. They offer a range of high-quality countertops, including marble, granite, and quartz. Here are their tips when it comes to choosing the best countertop for your kitchen needs: 

Scratch resistance for heavy use

Particular countertops are very durable and can withstand surface chopping. Granite and quartz, for example, are very durable and can withstand direct chopping – however, a cutting board is often recommended to prevent minor scratches and protect your knives. Also, acidic foods like citrus fruit can damage the granite sealant and cause discolouration. With quartz countertops, that’s not a problem as it’s an engineered product and is non-porous. On the other hand, marble and laminate are softer materials, which means they will scratch and cut easily, making a cutting board a must-use.

Setting down a hot pan

While you should use a trivet for your pots before putting them on the countertop, sometimes there’s no time. For example, you may briefly place a hot pot on the counter during a busy cooking session before moving it. Likewise, you’ll want a countertop that can withstand the heat around a stove. That rules out wood or laminate countertops, but marble, quartz, and granite are all robust choices. Remember that regularly placing a hot pot down could cause discolouration or weaken the seal over time, so don’t make it a habit. However, choosing a heat-resistant countertop will minimize that risk so you can cook without concern.

Easy cleaning

Cleanup is part of the process of any cooking session, which means an easy-to-clean countertop is another must. It’s likely during any cooking that you’ll be working with oils, maybe wine, lemon juice, raw meats and fish and more. That’s where a non-porous countertop, like quartz, is a great option. Quartz doesn’t absorb bacteria or develop mould; it only needs a warm, soapy water mix to clean the surface. Quartz can also be made to mimic other materials, so you can get the look and appeal of granite or marble.

If you opt for granite, you can ensure it is protected by regular sealing. Sealing your granite countertop is easy and something you can do yourself. Talk to VE Stone about what products you can use to seal your granite countertops to protect it and make cleaning up a breeze.

Outdoor kitchen

When choosing a countertop for your outdoor kitchen, you can’t go wrong with natural stone. Granite is ideal for the outdoors as its durability can easily withstand hot and sunny days or rain. As with indoor granite countertops, keep them properly sealed to protect the surface and prevent bacteria buildup. Since the granite is outdoors with the sun above and hot elements below, consider a lighter countertop colour to help avoid too much heat buildup. 

Countertops in Surrey

VE Stone is a full-scale fabrication facility. They can help you with the smallest bathroom job to the largest commercial project. You’ll appreciate their wide selection of natural stone products with varying colours and styles, including marble, granite, and quartz. Stop by their showroom for inspiration and more information!

Call today for a free consultation!

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

Many people think just throwing a new coat of paint on the walls will bring home transformation. However, there is such a thing as a bad paint job. Deluxe Painting Ltd. in Edmonton explains why hiring a professional painting company is an excellent idea.

Save time

In theory, repainting your home may seem like an easy project. Nevertheless, painting your home can take a lot of time. Most people do not factor in the time they will need to spend painting their home. A job that you thought might take a weekend ends up taking weeks. With busy lives, and children or parents (or both) to care for, you may end up leaving an unfinished paint job for months. Leave the painting to the professionals so you can spend more time doing the things you need to do — and the things you love.

Deluxe Painting Ltd. brings over 20 years of experience to the painting industry. They can paint your home quickly and efficiently. Moreover, this company will ensure a high-quality paint finish that DIYers will be hard-pressed to match.

Expert preparation

Great preparation can make all the difference. A professional painting company will pay attention to detail in the preparation process. In addition, they will repair and prepare the surfaces that need a little extra love. This prep is what will bring you next-level results.

Deluxe Painting Ltd. provides expert surface preparation. Their prep also includes complete caulking. They can also do minor drywall repairs. As a result, you will have a newly painted home that is ready to impress.

Flawless results

An uneven finish, drips, brush stroke marks and more are all possible with a bad paint job. Paint on the ceiling or on the trim are also telltale signs of painting gone wrong. Furthermore, it can be frustrating to find these mistakes after you’ve spent so much time on a project. When you hire a reliable, experienced painting company you won’t have to worry about any of this. Your paint job will come with a flawless finish. This is important not just for the look of your home, but for your property value as well. Potential buyers can tell the difference between a professional and DIY paint job.

Get the job done right the first time with Deluxe Painting Ltd. Their attention to detail and high standards will take the look and feel of your home to the next level.

House Painters in Edmonton

Deluxe Painting Ltd. provides top-quality residential and commercial painting for property owners in Edmonton. They specialize in both repaints and new construction. On top of this, they can offer both interior and exterior painting services. They also work on theme rooms! Deluxe Painting Ltd. also boasts ample experience working on higher-end projects. This company has continued to grow, since its inception in 2012, thanks in large part to its many referrals. They guarantee a fine finish and always put customer satisfaction first.

Call Deluxe Painting Ltd. today!

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

Blog post submitted by Eco Abate Inc. in Calgary

Hazardous Material Testing for Asset Retirement Obligations of Buildings: Understanding the Process and Estimating the Cost

When owning or managing a building, there are many responsibilities that need to be considered. These include the proper handling of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials are substances that can pose a risk to human health and the environment if not managed and disposed of through proper channels. As such, federal and provincial regulators require building owners to conduct hazardous material testing as part of their asset retirement obligations. Additionally, new PS 3280 accounting standards require all Canadian municipalities to estimate and account for the AROs of tangle capital assets, including hazardous materials in buildings.

Asset retirement obligations (AROs) refer to the legal obligation an entity has to retire an asset, such as a building or piece of equipment, at the end of its useful life. AROs are often associated with environmental liabilities such as land reclamation but also include the liability posed by hazardous materials in buildings. As a result, building and property owners must assess and identify any hazardous materials present in the building. The can do this by contacting a hazardous material testing company like Eco Abate Inc. Then, determine the cost of their removal and properly dispose of them to achieve their AROs.

The Process of Hazardous Material Testing

Hazardous material testing is the process of identifying and quantifying hazardous materials in a building, including asbestos, lead, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and mould. This testing is typically performed by a certified environmental consultant or occupational hygienist, who will visit the building and conduct a thorough inspection.

The consultant will visually inspect the building and collect samples of any suspected hazardous materials, such as insulation and paints. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for testing to determine the type and quantity of hazardous components present. Learn more about asbestos testing in Calgary.

The consultant will then prepare a report detailing the testing results and provide recommendations for the management and eventual disposal of any hazardous materials identified. This report is essential for building owners to properly manage their AROs, account for current or future liabilities, and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.

Estimating the Cost of Hazardous Material Testing

The cost of hazardous material testing can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the building, the type and quantity of building materials, and the location of the building. However, building owners can estimate the cost of hazardous material testing by considering the following factors:

1. Size of the Building: The larger the building, the more extensive the testing will be, which can increase the cost of testing and inspection.

2. Type and Quantity of Hazardous Materials: Different hazardous materials require different testing methods, and the number of hazardous materials present can affect the analysis cost.

3. Location of the Building: The location of the building can impact the cost of testing, as different regions may incur travel costs, be subject to different regulations, and require specific testing requirements.

4. Consultant Fees: The cost of hiring a certified environmental professional to conduct the testing and prepare the report will vary based on their experience and qualifications.

In general, building owners can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for hazardous material testing in Calgary for an average commercial or industrial property, depending on the size and complexity of the building and the type of suspected hazardous materials present. However, some facilities, such as multi-story residential or high-rise office buildings, may far exceed this estimate.

Conclusion

Hazardous material testing is a critical component of a building owner’s asset retirement obligations and accounting processes. By properly assessing and identifying any hazardous materials present in the building, owners can ensure compliance with federal and provincial regulations and account for the cost of their removal and disposal in the future. While the cost of testing can vary depending on several factors, building owners can work with a certified environmental professional to develop a hazardous material management plan that meets their AROs and protects the health and safety of their employees and the environment.

For more information, contact Eco Abate Inc.

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

Blog post submitted by Eco Abate Inc. in Calgary

Mould can be found in all homes and buildings. It not only looks unsightly but can also cause health problems for those living or working in the affected spaces. Mould is a fungus and that thrives in damp and humid conditions, and it can grow rapidly if left unchecked. The best way to prevent mould growth is by regular inspections, which can help identify and address any potential issues before they become a serious problem to occupants and health.

Mould Inspections are Important

Mould inspections in Calgary are essential for several reasons. First, they can help identify the presence of mould before it spreads and becomes a more significant and costly problem. Second, they can help identify the root cause of mould growth, such as a leak, foundation cracks, or inadequate ventilation. Third, a mould inspection can help determine the extent of a mould problem and the steps needed to address it safely.

Mould inspections are especially crucial for those who have allergies or respiratory issues, as exposure to mould can exacerbate symptoms. In severe cases, long-term mould exposure can lead to more serious health problems, including upper respiratory infections and asthma.

How Mould Inspections Work

During a mould inspection, a qualified environmental professional will conduct a visual examination of the problem areas to identify any signs of mould growth or water damage. They will also use specialized equipment to measure the humidity levels and identify any areas of moisture, detect areas of potential condensation buildup with thermal imaging cameras, monitor the air for fungal particulates, including spores and hyphal fragments, as well as test the air for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which may be causing smells or symptoms.

Once the inspection is complete, the indoor environmental professional will provide a detailed report of their findings, including any interpretation of results and recommended actions needed to address the issue. In most cases, the report will include recommendations for remediation, preventative measures, maintenance guides, and basic cleaning suggestions.

Preventing Mould Growth

While mould inspections are essential, preventing mould growth in the first place is the best way to avoid the need for remediation. Here are some tips for preventing mould growth:

1. Control the humidity levels in your home or building by adjusting the humidistat, particularly in the winter months.

2. Ensure proper ventilation in areas that become humid, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and garages.

3. Repair any leaks or water damage immediately to prevent mould growth, including the replacement of wet drywall or ceiling tiles.

4. Use moisture-resistant paint and sealants in areas prone to mould growth, such as bathrooms and basements to prevent the absorption of water into porous building materials.

5. Keep your home or building clean and free from clutter and organic waste, as this can increase baseline spore levels and provide an ideal environment for mould to grow.

The Take Aways

Mould inspection and testing are essential parts of maintaining a healthy and safe living or working environment. By identifying potential mould issues early, you can prevent the spread of mould growth and avoid the associated health problems. If you suspect mould growth in your home or building, have an experienced consulting professional conduct an inspection to identify the root cause and recommend corrective actions. Remember, prevention is the best strategy for avoiding mould growth.

Contact Eco Abate Ltd. in Calgary for more information!

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

When it comes to powerhouse systems, eavestroughs are one of them. These systems control and redirect water and melted snow away from your home, protecting your siding, roof, fascia and soffits. However, the whole system must be in top condition to work properly.

Doug’s Exteriors in Edmonton offers eavestrough and leaf guard installation and services. Here they share how exterior maintenance can keep your eavestrough, soffit, fascia, and siding in top condition:

Eavestrough system

The primary role of an eavestrough is to redirect snowmelt and rainwater away from your home. Without eavestroughs, water pouring off the roof can cause foundation problems, damage the siding, and rot the fascia and soffits. Take action if you notice standing water, leaks, or debris clogging the eavestroughs. These are signs that the gutters need cleaning or repairs. Regular cleaning ensures the system works properly and doesn’t need costly repairs or a complete replacement.

Soffit and fascia pairing

The soffit is installed under the outside edge of the roof and just under the eavestrough. Like eavestroughs, soffits have a few critical roles in protecting your home. Visually, it adds an aesthetic touch and functionally helps with ventilation in the attic. Proper ventilation is key to keeping your home roof safe and helping with water flow in the winter. Ice build-up can cause costly damage to the roof and gutters without proper roof ventilation.

Fascias are a complementary part of the soffits and eavestrough system installed against the fascia. When properly installed, it creates a leak-proof seal so no rain or debris can seep into the roof.

Proper installation and maintenance are vital to keeping your home safe with soffits and fascia. While getting a routine eavestrough inspection, check your other systems. For example, if you often have ice dam troubles, it could be an issue with your attic’s insulation and ventilation. After those have been checked, a professional might recommend heat cables to prevent the ice dams from forming.

Protects the siding

Any collected water will start to spill over when your eavestroughs are clogged or damaged. As it does, that water can start to cause damage to the siding. Mould or moss can settle in on the siding and cause damage and potential rot. That water could also begin to seep inside and cause unseen damage behind the siding or water damage inside the home. Regularly maintaining your eavestroughs keeps your siding safe, curb appeal up, and costly repairs down. While getting an inspection, see if your contractor can do any other upgrades to the siding, soffit or fascia.

Eavestroughs in Edmonton

Doug’s Exteriors offers eavestroughs and leaf guard system installation and repair services. Doug’s is a small but highly skilled team of eavestrough experts. In addition, they work with various exterior materials and different eavestrough systems. These materials include vinyl, aluminum, stainless steel, or copper eavestroughs. If you need a new gutter system, you can trust the expertise from Doug’s Exteriors.

Get in touch with them today!

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

Blog post submitted by Eco Abate Inc. in Calgary

Mould testing is the most crucial step in identifying and addressing mould problems in your home or business. Mould can grow in damp or humid areas. It can cause a range of health problems for people who are exposed to it. If you suspect that there is mould in your space, mould testing in Calgary can help you determine the extent of the problem and the best course of action to take.

What is mould testing?

Mould testing can involve taking samples of the air and surfaces in suspected problem areas. Then analyzing for the presence of spores and fungal structures. There are many different types of fungal species. Some of which are natural to the environment and some are indicative of an indoor air contamination issue.

Air Testing

Air testing involves taking samples of the air and categorizing the types of particulates and genus of the spores observed. This type of testing can be very useful for identifying areas where mould is growing but may not be visible to the naked eye.

Surface Testing

Surface testing involves taking samples with a sticky gel strip from surfaces, such as walls or floors, and analyzing them for fungal growth. This type of testing can be useful for confirming visible mould growth and determining the type that is present.

Once the mould testing in Calgary has been completed, the results will be interpreted to determine the potential extent of the mould problem and the best course of action to take. Depending on the severity of the problem, it may be a simple fix. Or mould remediation may be necessary to remove the mould and prevent it from returning.

Always hire a qualified environmental professional

An environmental professional who has training and experience in identifying and addressing mould and moisture problems should always perform mould testing. Attempting to remove mould on your own can be hazardous. It may even make the problem worse by spreading spores into other locations.

Testing is an important step in identifying and addressing mould problems to ensure your family and coworkers are safe. If you suspect that there is mould present, contact a professional to perform the necessary testing. They’ll help determine the best course of action to take to protect your health and the health of those around you.

If you suspect you have mould and need mould testing, contact Eco Abate Inc.

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

Blog post submitted by Eco Abate Inc. in Calgary

Asbestos was a common component in a variety of building materials and products due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it has been linked to several health issues, particularly in the lungs (lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis). As a result, it is crucial to test for asbestos in any buildings constructed before 1990 or any building suspected of having asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

What is asbestos testing?

Asbestos testing is a process of collecting and analyzing samples of materials that may contain the fibrous mineral. There are two main types of asbestos testing in Calgary: bulk sampling and air testing.

Bulk Sampling

Bulk sampling involves collecting a small piece of the suspect material, such as ceiling texture or drywall, and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. The lab will use either polarized light microscopy (PLM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to determine the presence and amount of asbestos fibers in the sample. The type of analysis is determined by the type of material and the expected concentrations.

Air Testing

Air testing, on the other hand, is used to measure the concentration of airborne asbestos fibres in the indoor environment. This type of testing is typically performed when ACMs are disturbed during abatements required prior to renovations or demolitions. The air samples are collected using specialized pumps and filters and analyzed using phase-contrast microscopy (PCM) or TEM. Some air samples will require both types of analysis.

Always hire a qualified professional

It is essential to hire a qualified asbestos testing professional like Eco Abate Inc. in Calgary to conduct the testing. They will ensure that the samples are collected correctly, and the analysis is interpreted accurately. Additionally, they will provide recommendations on when to manage or remove the ACMs if asbestos is found.

If asbestos is found in the building, it is crucial to take appropriate measures to protect the health of occupants. If the ACMs are in good condition and not disturbed, they may be left in place and regularly monitored. However, if they are damaged, deteriorating, or present in the air systems, it may be necessary to have them removed by a certified asbestos abatement contractor.

Asbestos testing in Calgary is a critical step in ensuring the safety of a building’s occupants. It is essential to hire a qualified and certified professional to conduct the testing and follow their recommendations for managing or removing any ACMs found. By taking the appropriate measures, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure can be prevented.

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

Whether you are building a new home from the ground up or completing major renovations, there is a lot to consider. Before any plans are completed, taking time to research everything involved in building a custom home is recommended. From there, the process becomes about finding the right contractor for the job.

Integral Construction Management (ICM) in Edmonton offers major home renovations and custom home-building services. Here they share some key factors to help you choose the best contractor for your new home build.

Full-service approach

Instead of a homeowner dealing with multiple contractors, choose one general contractor to oversee the project from start to finish.  This can get difficult with so many people to communicate with and schedule. You want a contractor who can be there for you every step of the way, acting as a project manager and overseeing all aspects of the build.  The right general contractor will have a designer and all the necessary trades under one umbrella.  This way, you’ll be taken care of from project inception to the day you walk into your new home!

ICM is a full-service contractor. This means they support their clients through each step of the process. You’ll never be left hanging, from design to permits to managing construction.

Strong relationships

You want your relationship with your contractor to be built on trust. After all, they will deliver one of the most important pieces of your life: your home. You’ll also be working together over many months. So, it is important your contractor is a good fit and that you have one hundred percent faith in their work, or this could lead to problems.

On top of this, your custom home contractor will be bringing in tradesmen to complete custom work. Before your new home build begins, you want to be sure your contractor has solid relationships with other trades. When you can trust your contractor and the people your contractor works with, you know you’re in good hands.

ICM prides itself on maintaining excellent relationships with its clients and tradesmen. For ICM, open communication with the client is key. They work with trusted trades contractors with a reputation for quality work and outstanding business practices.

Choose a RenovationFind contractor 

ICM is a RenovationFind Certified contractor. This means they have gone through rigorous background checks. These checks prove their business licences and WCB insurance is up-to-date. It also means they have a solid financial and legal history. In other words, because ICM is backed by RenovationFind certification, you know they are a contractor you can trust.

In addition, many trades contractors ICM works with are also RenovationFind Certified companies!

Custom Home Building and Major Renovations in Edmonton

ICM is a residential general contractor working in Edmonton. Their core business combines general contracting with construction management, design, and building services. ICM values a team approach where clear communication and solid relationships are core to their business. They commit to completing each construction project as if it was their own.

Contact ICM today to discuss your custom home build or renovation project!

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