Travis Fowler

Tips To Choose The Best Roofing Contractor For Your Home Renovation Project

The services of a roofing contractor are something that you will need at one time or another. Be it that you want to install a roof, repair or replace your roof, it is no doubt that you will need to hire a roofing company. Hiring the right contractor can be a daunting task owing to the many roofers available. However, with some tips at hand, you can make this process a less bothering one. Keep reading as below are some tips to enable you to get the right contractor.

•Research and decide the materials you want

Note that roofing materials exist in various designs and roofs are made of different materials. The roofing material that you choose has an impact on the level of satisfaction, as well as the resale value of your house. You need to decide which materials are best for your construction even before you choose the roofing contractor. Knowing this before hand, helps you engage a contractor who understands your needs. Hence, make sure that your roofer knows the specific materials you need as this means that the contractor will give you what you want. Also, choose to go with a roofing contractor with various options.

•Get premium materials

You need to select strong materials to do your roofing. Sturdy products will give you a peace of mind, knowing that you will not have to replace them frequently. Therefore, make sure that you make the purchase of roofing materials from reputable suppliers. Also, ensure that these materials come with a warranty so that you remain covered should you have any issues with them. Cooper Roofing Inc. ensures that the materials they use have 30+ year warranties. Using the higher quality materials can save money in the long run when you need to replace your roof eventually.

Roofer on a roof

•Choose locally

If you select a roofer online, it is desirable that you go for one who is available within your locality. However, this does not mean that federal roofing contractors are bad, but local roofers have a lot to offer. First, these contractors are well versed with the local codes. With them, you can be sure of not making decisions that contradict with what the local regulations require. Another reason to go with local roofers is that you can rely on them. Unlike contractors who have a broad base of operation, you can be sure that local contractors will always be available should you need them repeatedly for a repair. Finally, it will cost you less to hire locally. The reason behind this is because these contractors will not deal with long distances, meaning that the charges that will reflect on your costs will not be hefty.

•Look for a contractor who gives free estimates

A good roofing company should provide you with a free estimate. Such a company should send a contractor to your premises before the roofing day so that the roofer can determine the amount of work to be done and hence the price. With a free estimate, you can be sure to remain within your budget, while protecting you from surprises during the payments day. Also, ask the contractor for an agreement that includes the quote given. Such a contract should help you to compare various roofers while ensuring that the roofing contractor does not go contrary to the agreement. Cooper Roofing President Perry Guy says: “Do not work with a contractor who is not willing to give a free estimate. This shows that they are in it for the money and only the money.”

Roofer With Nails

•Insurance and license is a must

You need to stay covered once you hire roofing services. Ask if your roofing contractor has insurance to cover both the materials and persons who will work on your roofing. A contractor with an insurance policy gives you a peace of mind, knowing that you will not have to deal with any claims or lawsuits. Apart from insurance ensure that the contractor is licensed, as licenses give you the assurance of working with a qualified contractor, and one allowed by the state to perform your roofing.

The above points should help you get the right roofing contractor. Do not fail to observe them, as the professionalism of a roofer will determine how safe you will remain as well as how protected your property is. By getting the right contractor also, you will save much time and money, while being assured of having less or no problems with your roof.

Check out some of the top roofers around Vancouver, BC

Travis Fowler

8 Renovations Of Great Value

When it comes to selling your home, the buyer can be looking for any number of things. Below is a list of the top 8 renovations you can make including the buzzwords that are sure to win over potential buyers.

This article was co-written with Beatrice Link from http://caliberwestrenovations.ca/vancouver-closets/

1. The Kitchen is still King

One of the most influential rooms in a house when it comes to value is the kitchen, and it has been a focal point of all types of buyers including first-timers. A recent survey of millennials reported that an updated kitchen is top of their list for important features of a home, indicating that kitchens are the most important aspect for more than a third of participants.

To ensure the kitchen looks it best when selling, there is no need to strip it down; minor investments can make a major difference. Painting the walls, cabinets and installing new hardware will add value and for under $5000, you can add new flooring, counters and appliances. Affordable yet small changes can create a fresh look and make a bold statement.

The value-adding buzzwords for kitchen renovation include stainless steel and quartz. There is a clean , contemporary look to stainless steel which appeals to both traditional and modern buyers. There are trendy versions of the timeless metal, such as black stainless steel which is softer in appearance but regarded just as highly. No longer is granite the go-to material for counters; quartz can withstand cuts, heat, scratches and stains. Made of stone chips, pigments and resins, this material is easier to care for than the other high-priced stones which explain its current rise in popularity.
With an updated kitchen, possibly using the above-mentioned changes, one could expect a sale price bump of 3 to 7 percent.

2. Make Floor Plans Work

The second most popular response to the millennial survey was an open floor space. Better does not have to mean bigger because economic and strategic floor planning can boost a home’s value. The addition or completion of a basement is an easy way to increase space as can remodelling the attic. Costs for basement and attic renovation vary according to size, so the best place to start is with HomeAdviser. This website can provide estimates and will connect you to professionals that have already been approved.

Additional spaces can be transformed into one of the several ideas, and depending on the potential customer they can be a hit. The Certain crowd will love the ideas of a den or office space especially since the trend of working from home is on the rise. Others will appreciate having space for the kids and more specifically kids’ toys.

The floor plan buzzwords to include in updating and creating value are flex rooms, upstairs laundry and mother-in-law quarters. Flex rooms add value because they can serve multiple purposes; a gym, a game room or a study. Younger generations have expressed a desire to have a dedicated room for laundry, and the preferred locations are upstairs near bedrooms or off of the kitchen. Most manufacturers boast matching washer/dryer sets now to accommodate these rooms. The largely popular mother-in-law space allows for a private space for a family member or possible rental income.
Floor plan updates can account for a possible 4 to 6 percent bump in the sale price.

3. Don’t Let Your Home Be an Energy Hog

Energy efficiency not only saves you money but is a great selling point when the time comes. This attribute is registered as important as a safe community. The interest in energy efficiency is seen among all buyers; the older generations have experienced high costs, and so appreciate efficiency and the newer buyers who have jumped the country’s saving energy bandwagon. In places where extreme weather conditions occur, potential buyers usually want to know estimated costs for a year, including seasonal variations. Installing a new water heater is a great step for impressing energy efficient buyers, given that they contribute 16 percent of the home’s energy costs.

Energy efficient buzzwords to use are High-efficiency windows and LED lights. The addition of the right windows can reduce an energy bill by up to 15 percent. The home’s ‘green’ rating will increase with the use of LED lights; with a cost of $7, you get excellent light quality and an expected life of 23 years.

Improvements in energy efficiency can boost sale prices between 1 and 3 percent.

4. Keep It Simple and Stress-Free

Features that once used to symbolize luxury now are associated with stress-free environments. Stain-prone counters or dust catching carpets are now valued for the fact that they do the work for you. Younger generations want to entertain more and clean less, making these features as popular today but for different reasons. Outside of these additions, new buyers will want to be sure that heating, plumbing and electricity are all in working order so that maintenance is not an immediate issue. With most of their money spent on a down payment, these systems need worry free at the time of the sale.

The buzzwords that add value to your stress-free home include updated systems, hardwood floors and a new roof. For the mechanical systems, ensure that they are updated and reliable. Research brands to get the ones needing the least amount of repairs. Carpets are a thing of the past as hardwood floors are not only beautiful, but they do not show wear as much and are easy to clean and maintain. Durability in a floor means less worry for new buyers and of the cost is an issue; there are engineered flooring options. Replacing the roof can alleviate fears of animal infestations, water damage and leaks, which are all disasters that can turn a buyer away.

With adjustments and upgrades to these features, an estimated 3 to 5 percent bump can be seen in sales price.

5. Build a Home for ‘the Ages’

Recent studies have shown that our population is growing and as we live to linger it will consist of many more senior citizens, then previous years have seen. Many houses today are not designed to accommodate this with narrow doorways, steep stairs and slippery showers or baths. By thinking and planning, you can make the adjustments to your home to appeal to this growing portion of the population and thus increase your chances of a sale.

Walk-in showers, comfort-height toilets and master on main are all buzzwords that should be used when referring to these upgrades. Installing a walk-in shower that is wheelchair accessible and curbless increases the appeal, as does the addition of toilets that are a little taller and easier to reach. With a master bedroom on the main floor, there is reduced stress of climbing stairs and is the top choice when it comes to preferences that seniors look for in their potential homes.
Creating an elderly friendly home can boost sale prices by 1 to 2 percent.

6. Paint is Still a Potent Upgrade

Painting is a quick and relatively cheap way to upgrade a home. You don’t have to repaint every surface and wall, just concentrate on high -traffic areas and give those a touch-up. Cover areas where there is any damage or scratches and in no time old surfaces can look brand new.

Paint with neutral colours because this allows for the buyers to picture their vision and plans instead of being forced to see only your colours schemes. Neutral colours are also timeless and are appreciated by all generations. Be sure to use higher quality paints especially for outdoor projects; this will ensure it stays looking new for as long as possible and is one less thing for the new tenants to worry about. Bathrooms should be painted with mould resistant paint to ensure that the steam from the shower does not turn into mould.

A simple coat of paint or two can add 1 to 2 percent to the sales price.

7. Remember the Great Outdoors

Look at the exterior of your home as a way to increase living space. As a mere extension to the home, it can add or subtract value. Adding a deck or patio and including a seating area or grill will certainly create a welcome vibe and increase popularity. With regards to the garden itself, it is best to select plants or décor that is easy to maintain. It would be wise to assume that people are too busy for the upkeep of a demanding landscape, and leaving it simple will again allow buyers to envision their own.

Having a water-smart yard is key, right up there with energy efficient features. Replace some grass with stones or decorative gravel as a means of reducing water reliant areas. The buzzword of the day for the home’s exterior is curb appeal. You need to keep in mind what people see as they drive by, so a freshly painted front door, trimmed shrubs and minor repairs can make a great first impression.
By sprucing up the exterior, one can expect a possible 3 to 5 percent bump in the sale price.

8. Make Sure Your New Technology is Smart

With today’s ever-changing technological advancements and the dependence we seem to have developed on them, technology should e included in your home, but be sure it can keep up with the quick evolutions of the field. Certain smart devices are definite winners such as thermostats that can be programmed because they give the appearance of a high-tech home without the risk of becoming obsolete. Recent generations have grown up surrounded by ‘smart’ appliances and systems, so they will e looking for these in their future home. It is also wise to remember the generations that do not use these, so a happy medium needs to be found.

One buzzword to remember is the whole-house generator, which is considered a valuable asset to any home. Power outages are a reality, and this backup provides a sense of security and peace to potential buyers.

Taking the time to upgrade the house’s technology can account for a 3 to 5 percent bump in sales price.

Whatever renovation you decide upon, it is worth looking into all the above-mentioned options. With the buzzwords to use and the potential price increases, you have a solid guide on where to start your renovations and how to boost your houses value and the interest of prospective buyers which can be so valuable especially if you’re living in Toronto, Los Angeles, or Vancouver.

Travis Fowler

How Tree Removal May Be The Best Home Renovation This Summer

Trees help to serve as shields for protection along your property’s edges. They’re also literal masterpieces that can sit right in your own backyard that are both comforting and beautiful.

Unfortunately, removing a tree is an instance that can prove to be difficult, both physically and mentally. Take a moment to imagine looking out of your kitchen window and no longer seeing the large tree that once you to sit majestically in your backyard’s far corner. Instead of being able to watch the branches sway along as the wind blows, you’re instead looking at a large, empty area covered with dirt, which is where the roots of that same tree used to grow.

The many benefits that trees possess occur mentally, emotionally, and physically, and what seems to matter the most is the overall happiness that we feel from them every single day. However, when a tree becomes a risk to both your home, your roof, and individuals that reside in the shade below them, it’s always a good idea to put their overall fate in the hands of a trained professional.

Signs of Tree Damage

When you begin to inspect your tree to determine whether it needs to be removed from your property, you should always begin at the roots. Here are six of the most common signs of tree damage that you should look for:

*Soil both at the base of the trunk and beneath the canopy of the tree
*Fungi, such as mushrooms that produces decay, which will often grow at the base of the tree’s trunk
*Peeling/chipped bark and cracks in the trunk of the tree
*Cavities located within the trunk and larger-sized scaffold branches
*Hanging and dead branches located in the upper crown
*Fine twigs that do not have any living buds close to the ends of the branches

These six common signs are from GJ’s Tree Services. Our Maple Ridge Tree Removal company serves many clients, feel free to check us out today for more common signs on when you should remove a tree before it becomes a burden to your home improvement or roofing project.

It’s important to keep in mind that trees are considered to be living organisms that will eventually start to die as time goes on. However, as trees begin to grow and become more mature, they possess a large number of benefits. As a result, one of which includes being able to provide shade during the hot summer season. Tree removal may be able to open up your backyard and become a great home renovation.

Inspection

Always consult a trained professional arborist for assistance with inspecting your trees for any and all damage. They will be able to help you determine the best solution that will work for your property. Always pay close attention to trees that create risks and contact a professional if you feel that it’s necessary to remove pests and diseases of any kind. Not only will the professional be able to let you know how likely it is that your injured tree will fail, but they can also tell let you know of the many benefits that you can take advantage of with a currently living tree if it doesn’t get removed.

Arborists always state how easy it is to err on the side of caution and get rid of larger-sized mature trees before they actually need to; however, arborists that are more qualified will be able to understand just how important it is to come up with methods to maximize the full benefits of trees while, at the same time, reducing overall risks.

Travis Fowler

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Home Cleaner Of Stealing From You?

While hiring a professional cleaning service is something that can relieve a great deal of stress on your part, if you don’t fully trust the service itself or if you suspect a cleaner that they send to help you has been stealing from you, that great feeling that you once had will disappear almost instantly, and you will begin to experience a lot of worry and stress as a result.

Whenever you allow a worker to be in your home unsupervised for any amount of time, you are opening up the door for a lot of risks to be taken. Regardless of the city in which you live, hiring a cleaner that you feel may be trustworthy doesn’t necessarily mean that a theft won’t take place. This is because cleaners are given keys or are left alone in your home for an extended period to enable them to complete their tasks. Even if they aren’t out to steal anything, the overall temptation to do so may be great if they end up coming across money or other valuable items.

Here are some steps that you can take if you are suspicious that a cleaner may have stolen from you.

Verify That a Theft has Taken Place

The very first thing that you should do is obtain actual proof that a cleaner has stolen from you. While you may have found some things missing, that doesn’t necessarily mean that a cleaner is responsible for that. One great way to determine this is to purposely leave out a certain amount of money, ensuring that you put it in an area that’s easy to find and out of the way, yet, at the same time, ensuring that you’re not leaving it out to obviously make it look like bait. The more bills you have for this and in different denominations, the better. Be sure to leave this money out only when you know that the cleaner will be in your home. Once they leave, check the money to see if any of it is missing.

Another great way to verify if a theft has taken place in your home is to install security cameras, which will also allow you to see who is taking part in the theft itself. These can be hidden in several different locations; however, you should have a basic knowledge of both technology and computers to install them.

For more information on how to confront and deal with a stealing nanny, view Coronation Cleaning on Facebook and their house cleaning service Langley website.

What to Do Once You Obtain Proof

Once you obtain proof that a cleaner has stolen something from you in your home, there are a couple of different courses of action that you can take. First, you can contact the police if the cleaner that you hired was not through an agency. Inform the police of exactly what you have discovered. Second, if the cleaner that you hired was through house cleaning services, you can either contact them to inform them what happened or you can go directly to the police. If you choose to go to the police, be sure that you have the full name and address of the cleaning employee. Never confront the cleaner directly because they will likely end up disappearing without returning any of the items that they stole from you.

Other Tips

Once you start to notice any items going missing from your home, start to keep a record of this. This will allow you to verify exactly what has been stolen, which you can then provide to the police when you report the theft. Additionally, make sure that any cleaning service that you hire is completely reliable. This includes making sure that the company is both fully insured and bonded. If they are, then you will be able to have your stolen items either returned to you or be reimbursed for the full value of them.

Travis Fowler

Ways to Make a Small Kitchen Look Beautiful

Just because your kitchen is small doesn’t mean it can’t look fabulous. Start by decluttering your kitchen since it gives you a blank space upon which you can decorate to your heart’s content. Think about which themes inspire you the most and narrow the list down to one beautiful theme for your small kitchen. Look through home decor magazines and see which styles you might like. Here are additional ways to upgrade your small kitchen and have fun with your home improvement project.

Go Light on the Paint Colors

The goal is to make a small kitchen appear spacious, so in this case, you want to stay away from dark colored paints. Instead, you want to use white or pastel colored paints for the walls. Visit the local paint stores and request palettes to get an idea of what certain colours would like on your kitchen walls.

Pendant Lights Work Well in Small Kitchens

Instead of using bulky recessed lighting or chandeliers for a small kitchen, pendant lighting might be better. You can hang two or three medium sized ones over your kitchen island and there are diverse styles of pendant lights to choose from. For example, if you have a bohemian style kitchen, some farmhouse pendant lights might work for you.

Consider Glass Top Cabinets

If you want to give a small kitchen that sleek and contemporary look, upper glass cabinets are excellent for this. These cabinets are easy to clean, and they make it easier for you to see and find pantry items you use each day. Frosted glass cabinets, in particular, are nice for small kitchens.

Purchase Smaller Appliances

If you live alone and have a small kitchen, small appliances can be used. Portable refrigerators, medium sized convection ovens or microwaves, and toasters can reduce clutter in the kitchen.

Use a Tile Backsplash

Tile backsplashes are fabulous for small kitchens, and there are so many to choose from. Mirror backsplash resembles mirrors and add a classy touch to your small kitchen. There are also the diagonal patterned tiles, and these work well for a country themed small kitchens. Herringbone tile backsplashes are becoming more popular, and some people like to use beautiful mosaic tile backsplashes.

Install Over the Range Microwave

Small kitchens can have more space and functionality when you install an over the range microwave in it. There are so many designs to choose from, and you can pick a colour that goes best with your kitchen’s theme. When choosing an over the range microwave, it is important to measure the space where you’ll install it so that the microwave will fit just right. You should also consider the features that offer the best functionality for you. You might want a microwave with a defrost feature or with buttons that are designed to cook certain foods such as popcorn or a baked potato.

Accessorize the Kitchen

You don’t want to clutter your kitchen with nick knacks, but accessories complement a small kitchen well. Caliber West, the kitchen renovations in Vancouver experts say: “Function over beauty. Function and beauty when they work well together.” You can place colored mason jars on top of your refrigerator and fill them with your most important pantry staples such as rice, beans and sugar. Or you can put a huge ceramic vase in the middle of your dinette table in the kitchen.

Have Fun With Patterned Wallpaper

If your small kitchen doesn’t accommodate a new paint job, a low-cost alternative would be to use patterned wallpaper along the kitchen walls. For example, bold colored or neutral toned paisley wallpaper is a cool option if you’re going to a cottage themed small kitchen. Black and white striped wall paper adds a sophisticated look if your kitchen has an urban classy theme.

Get to the Art of It

Small kitchens benefit from pieces of quirky artwork that speak to how you view your kitchen. You might hang up a piece that has a funny poem about what life is like for a homemaker. Or you might decide on a homemade paper collage that is made up of recipes you collected from the local newspaper over the years.

Use Plate and Cup Racks

Another cool way to decorate a small kitchen is to install a plate and up rack or shelf on the wall. This gives you easier access to the plates and cups you use the most, and this adds inexpensive decor to your small kitchen. Wrought iron, copper or brass tracks all make for excellent flair in a small kitchen.

Corner Drawers for Efficient Storage

Make better use of your kitchen’s corners by turning them into corner drawers. Corner drawers can be used to store utensils, small containers of coffee creamers, dishrags, spices and restaurant menus you use to order food on days when you don’t want to cook.

Colorful Area Rugs

Kiss drab goodbye in your small kitchen with one or two colorful area rugs. Area rugs help the kitchen look beautiful, but they serve as a way to collect food and debris that often fall on the floor during cooking and eating. These rugs are also inexpensive and can be found at most discount home decor stores.

Make Wall Space Vertical

Another thing you can do is use your wall space and make it vertical. Install decorative wall sconces to provide adequate lighting in the kitchen, or you can install shelving for your food prep essentials such as a chef’s knife, wooden spoons, whisks, and spatulas.

Use Fun Themes

You can also incorporate fun themes into your small kitchen’s decor. Some neat ideas include 50s diner style, bohemian minimalist style, Parisian style or even country western theme. Consider your personality and influences when choosing a theme.In conclusion, small kitchens don’t have to be boring. With these tips, you will have a kitchen that looks fabulous and organized. Be sure not to have too much clutter in the kitchen and use a variety of storage options to keep the pantry organized. Flea markets and thrift stores especially have affordable decorative items that make the kitchen appear cozy and quirky.

Travis Fowler

Garage Door Home Renovation Maintenance Tips

A garage door is the biggest part of your house that moves and is often used throughout the day in all seasons and at any time. To keep garage doors operating the right way for decades, it is very imperative to perform maintenance and regular care. Albeit, there are some professionals that can offer great tips to homeowners on how to fix their homes. Today, the professionals at Red Deer Doors, a local Red Deer business specializing in service for repairing garage doors will go through some of the best tips for maintaining and repairing your garage door. Here are ten things that homeowners can implement:

1. Listen and Look

The most imperative step you should take is to look at your garage door every time it opens and closes. Is it jerking in certain places or is it moving too slow? Does it work quietly or does it make a scraping or grinding noise? Are the cables, springs, and pulleys symmetrical on both sides?

2. Make the Hardware Tight

All garage doors work by moving up and down more than a thousand times each year. That is a lot of vibrations and movement, and it can cause the hardware to loosen. Tighten and Examine all bolts and roller brackets with a tool such as a socket wrench.

3. Test the Balance of the Garage Door

When your garage door is not balanced correctly, the opener has to work a lot harder, and in result, it will not last long.
After the opener is detached by pulling a red cord, you should move the door half-way up. If the door does not stay put the springs are most likely balanced improperly. Garage door adjustments should be handled by a professional garage door technician service.

4. Replace and Inspect the Rollers

Regardless if the rollers are nylon and steel, they need to be looked at twice a year for problems and should be replaced about every seven years. If you use your garage door often, it should be replaced for more than seven years.
If you have chipped, cracked or worn rollers, they should be replaced as quickly as possible. You can do this by reinstalling and removing all roller brackets that are not connected to a cable system.

5. Get Rid of the Weatherstripping

To keep the elements out of your home, replace the weather seal strip if it appears to be brittle or cracked. Weatherstripping is sold at hardware and home improvement stores by the foot. Simply cut to size and insert it into the grooves of the wide angle in the flange of the door.

6. Lubricate the Parts That Move

Keeping the parts of a garage door greased up will increase the longevity of seamless operation to your garage door, and it takes only ten minutes a year. You should use some white lithium grease on the open part of the screw or chain, and then you should spray a lubricant, that is available from a garage door service specialist to cover the springs.

7. Take a Look at the Cables

You should not mess with high tension cables that lift your garage door because they can kill and maim. It is good to check the condition of the cables, so you know when to hire a technician. Check for damage and broken strands located near the bottom of the roller bracket.

8. Test the Automatic Reverse Safety Features

There are two different mechanisms which are photocell and mechanical. To test the mechanical part, place a piece of brick or wood on the ground where the door is. When the door comes down, it should touch the object then reverse and go back up into the same direction. To test the photoelectric system with beams shut your door and move your leg by the path of the door. Your garage door should reverse.

If you have an opener that is more than twenty years old, it may lack the common safety feature, so you should buy a new opener for your garage door.

9. Clear All of the Tracks

You should make sure that the tracks that are on both sides of the garage door are free from rubbish. You should also check the plumb by using a level. If you have any significant adjustments to tracks that need to be done a garage door technician service has to take care of it.

10. Take Care of Your Garage

Don’t forget to look at your garage door itself. Wooden doors will need to be looked at for warp and water damage, as well as peel and chipped paint. Steel doors may sometimes have some rusty parts that need to be primed, painted and sanded. Wash garage doors regularly with an all-purpose cleaner that is mild when you was your car.

Travis Fowler

Considerations Before Remodelling Your Bathroom

If you are considering to remodel your bathroom, there are some fundamental tips which could make it more successful. For your bathroom to gain more storage, improve lighting and drainage, follow the following tips:

1. Plumbing

You should consider changing your drain pipes because most pipes used in residential places are 1.5 inches and they clog easily. In a normal household, bathroom pipes take in a lot of hair and other sediments, and they easily clog leading to more maintenance or repair costs. You can prevent all this from happening by upgrading to a 2-inch drain pipe which is less likely to clog. However, if your framing does not allow the update, you can look for an alternative solution to facilitate drainage. Additionally, if you live in cold areas where water freezes during winter, your plumbing pipes should not be routed through an exterior wall to prevent them from freezing and consequently clogging.

2. Lighting

To brighten up your bathroom, you can consider installing recessed light fixtures on your ceiling. With a proper shower trim, you can also include one or two recessed light fixtures in your shower to light up the place. Additionally, you can install a dimmer switch in your bathroom to be able to adjust the lights from time to time. Proper lighting in a bathroom is essential to improve the mood and visibility in your bathroom while shaving or applying make-up. You can only meet this objective by installing bright light fixtures when remodeling your bathroom.

3. Medicine cabinets

Amazing advice from IPC at http://www.ipcrenocrew.ca/bathrooms.asp says: “If you don’t have enough space to have medical cabinets, you can recess them in your bathroom to save space. Since medical cabinets protrude 4-5 inches, they may end up utilizing a lot of space in your bathroom, and you should, therefore, economize as much as possible.”

4. Wall-hung toilets

Wall hung toilets have become very popular with homeowners because they are affordable and they are economical on space as the tank is hidden behind the wall. They are effective, and if you are looking forward to remodeling your bathroom, this should be a consideration. However, because of their drainage, you will have to rework the supply of your toilet if you change your mind to have the floor mounted the unit in future.

5. Installing a window in the shower

If done properly, installing a window in your shower can be a great way of remodeling your bathroom because it improves lighting, aeration among other benefits. However, to successfully install a bathroom window, you should consider the following:
• Choosing a frosted-glass panel to enhance privacy
• Get a window which opens to facilitate aeration
• To ensure that the area is water tight, you should have stone jambs along the entire installation
• Slope down the sill to allow proper drainage
• Get tilt and turn windows because they have a screen located on the outside of the window, have privacy even when tilted open and have plastic handles which can’t rust

6. Shower sills

Just like window sills, they should be sloped into the shower due to drainage. When choosing shower sills, a solid material e.g. stone or quartz are preferred to avoid water seepage.

7. Shower floors

Ideally, large tiles are mainly slippery unless they are textured because grout tiles are further apart. On the other hand, smaller tiles have more traction and hence ideal for your shower floors. You can choose your floor tiles as per your preferences and choices.

8. Shower bases

There are numerous modern shower bases made from porcelain or acrylic which you can choose from to make your bathroom stand out.

9. Drawer storage

Since drawers are easier to access and organize, you should consider installing a vanity with a drawer storage rather than using doors. You can choose the drawer size depending on the size of items you want to accommodate.

10. Install a shower or a bathtub

Even though preference plays a role in choosing between installing a bathtub or a shower, how often you bathe is another factor which should be considered. The main objective behind bathroom remodeling is to improve the conditions of your bathroom for a better life, and you should not limit yourself to renovate your home for a future buyer!

extremeditor

Do It Yourself Plumbing Repair And Maintenance

Occasionally, you will find that there is the need for you take care of some necessary repair and maintenance of parts in your home. These parts may involve fixing, repairing and maintaining your plumbing system. While it is true that you may need the services of a professional plumber, you can handle some basic things by yourself. This will save you from incurring extra costs. Plumbing services can be quite costly, check commercial plumbing companies at Solutions. In that case and by learning to do some of these plumbing duties by yourself; you stand a better chance of dealing with small emergencies without panicking.

What are the benefits of doing it yourself?

By learning to do the necessary plumbing repair and maintenance, you put yourself in a better position. You get to enjoy benefits such as:

Avoid extra expenses

Hiring plumbing services will cost you anytime even if the plumber does nothing at all. In that case, learning to check for leakages and repairing petty ones such as unclogging a sink will save you from this cost. Any activity that will help you save some extra cash is welcome, and this one is one of them.

Attend to emergencies

We all know that hiring professionals may take them some time before they finally arrive at your place. By learning to do some simple things by yourself, you will be able to attend to some simple emergencies by yourself. For instance, if your sink clogs, you will not have to wait for hours for a plumber to arrive. Instead, you will unclog it yourself and be able to do your dishes and other activities that demand the use of a sink.

Leaning to do simple plumbing repair and maintenance will work to your greater good as you will get to learn more. As each day passes, you discover things that you did not know and may be helpful in solving some fundamental issues in future.

 

What are some of the plumbing repair and maintenance practices that you can do it yourself?

It is important to note that you can only do some basic plumbing repair and maintenance practices. However, when the damage is significant, there is always need for you to acquire the services of a professional plumber. Below are some of the activities that you can do them yourself:

  • Unblocking traps- this can be done by either using snakes or dismantling the whole sink to remove the blockage
  • Unclogging the sink drain- clogs in the bathroom are common, and if you keep calling a plumber each time they jammed, you will suffer the risk of incurring unnecessary extra costs.
  • It is better to do it.
  • Fixing water pressure in the shower
  • Clearing stopped-up toilets

Conclusion
While it is true that you may need to acquire the services of a professional plumber occasionally, you can do most of the small plumbing repair and maintenance practices. This will help you cut on the costs of plumbing services and attend to minor emergencies. Doing it yourself also helps you acquire new skills and knowledge.

extremeditor

7 Tips for Getting Rid of Household Molds

Are you searching for the best mold removal tips? One way to improve your family’s health is by dealing with mold. The reason is that mold causes several health issues, for example, skin irritation, coughing, nasal congestions and property damage. It means as a homeowner in Edmonton, Canada; you need to know what to do to get rid of mold. This post gives you seven tips for mold removal Edmonton.
• Proper Ventilation

One effective way of getting rid of mold is through excellent ventilation. The reason is that adequate ventilation enables you to draw out moisture from your home’s indoors.
This tactic kills the mold. The best way is by opening your windows and turning on your ventilation fan. Consider installing a Central Heating and Air Conditioning System for the best results.
• Air Purifiers

An air purifier gets rid of air contaminants such as dust, smoke, pet dander and pollen from your indoor air. The best ones to install are the high-end ones that have the ability to get rid of mold. However, they don’t stop the growth of mold.
• Sunlight

Another mold removal tactic is by exposing mold to the direct sunlight. That’s by opening your windows and letting the sunlight come inside. It leads to the moisture evaporating, reducing the chances of mold thriving.

Take out any objects containing mold outside for them to dry. Use a vacuum or a broom to remove the dry mold.
• Dehumidifier

Consider buying a dehumidifier that enables you to remove excess moisture in the air. Bear in mind that moisture is one condition that it requires for growth.

One advantage of using these devices is that they reduce moisture levels naturally. That ensure you get to live in humidity levels you are comfortable.
• Vinegar

Another effective mold removal Edmonton tactic is vinegar. For the best results, pour white vinegar into a bottle spray, direct and spray it to the area of mold growth. If the vinegar smell is strong, consider adding essential oil to reduce it.
• Chlorine Bleach

Consider applying chlorine bleach to surfaces or fabrics with mold growth. Make sure you spray the solution on the moldy surface area with two quarts water, two tablespoons of liquid detergent without ammonia, and mix them with a half a cup of bleach. You should then leave it for five minutes.

Wipe the surface using a clean rug with warm water. If you are dealing with moldy fabrics, add a cup of bleach to your washing machine dispenser. Make sure you only bleach white fabrics.
• Baking Soda

Baking soda is another substance you should use when carrying out mold removal. If you’re dealing with surfaces, put a mixture of baking soda, warm water, and mild dish-washing liquid.

You should then scrub the surface with a soft brush or sponge, then rinse the towel and dry. For carpets, sprinkle the baking soda and let it work for 20-30 minutes. You should then vacuum.

Carrying out mold removal should be easier using the above informative post. Consider carrying out an indoor air quality inspection for the best results when dealing with mold removal.

Travis Fowler

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Roof

A roof is a vital structure in a building. It protects not only the overall structure of your house but also your family possessions. So, it is crucial to take all task related to it very seriously. You might be a great DIYer but trying to install your roof without professional assistance should not be one of the do-it-yourself projects. You might not agree to this, but there several reasons why you should concur owing that your roof is a paramount investment both to you and your family. Therefore, what are the reasons that make it necessary to hire a professional roofing contractor? Covered below are some of the reasons.

♦ Experience

Having background knowledge on roofing is important since no roofing job is similar to another. You might have been involved in a particular successful roof repair or replacement, but that doesn’t make you an expert in that field. Moreover, even the professionals who successfully deal with roof installation spend a lot of their time practicing before having the necessary knowledge and expertise that makes them experts in that field. So, do not take the chances trying to practice with your home’s roof installation, no matter how simple you might view the task. It might just cause more harm and costs than that you should have even paid to your a professional roofer. Such happens because, without knowledge about the variety of roofs available as well as the number of roofs needed for your job, you might end up purchasing low quality or lesser quantity that makes your visits to the roofs store endless. Therefore, if you want your roof installed at the lowest possible cost and with the right quality of roofing material, get a professional licensed roofer. Besides, he not only gets your roof successfully installed but also helps you stay within the limits of your budget.

♦ Save on time

You may view roofing as a simple task that would only consume a subtle percentage of your time. However, this is not the case. Roofing Maple Ridge says that roofing might be more complicated and time-consuming than what you presumed it to be. Most individuals tend to be more confused after starting the job especially if they do not have the necessary knowledge and experience to support the task. Therefore, this makes the job more challenging and more time-consuming than it should be after the slightest mistake. So, it is more beneficial leaving the job to the people with more knowledge than you. After all, everyone does what is best familiar with them in a very short time. Hence, to have more time to spend on tasks that need your presence, have a professional roofer to deal with your roof and save some time for your duties. You might not only save your time but also get more satisfaction from the results afterward.

♦ Safety

We all know that dealing with roofs is one risky chance to take. This is not only because of the make of the roofs but also having to deal with high heights and ladders. The risks get even worse if the one installing the roof has never done it before. So, why risk your life with a clear idea of the harm you are exposing yourself? It is best if you get an expert who has the right tools to deal with all issues that come up. Besides, these contractors face similar circumstances in their career meaning that they have a basic idea of dealing with high heights. Also, they always have in mind how dangerous their job is, and they, therefore, ensure a full-time concentration avoiding distractions that may result in harm. Therefore, always put the interest of your home members safety first, since, installing your roof without the expertise required could endanger not only you but also a family member in case of an accident. Quantum Roofing – Maple Ridge, an experienced roofing company, says that even their employees sometimes make mistakes while roofing which result in injuries. You can check them out here: http://quantumroofing.ca/areas-served/maple-ridge

Do not let the cost that comes with hiring a roofing contractor to be the drive-away to hiring a professional roofer. Remember that the benefits that go with their services outweigh their costs. Moreover, the safety of your home and your possessions should always be on the forefront of your priorities. So get an expert roofer for your roof’s repair or replacement and get the best results out of it.

Here are some of the best roofing companies in the Maple Ridge area where we reside: