If you're like most Canadian homeowners, you've worried about rising energy costs over the last few years, are concerned about paying high utility bills now, and are wondering how all of these expenses will impact your budget. Keeping your home comfortable in every season can be challenging especially if you've got drafty windows or insufficient insulation. During the winter months, you may have been tempted to turn up the thermostat to take the chill off but instead put on another sweater to save a few dollars. Don't forget about those dog days of summer that are just around the corner. Are you going to crank up the air conditioning as a reprieve from the heat or open the windows hoping for a natural breeze to give you a few cool hours of comfortable…

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Asphalt shingles are by far the most common type of roofing material used, but you will find a variety of roofing materials used on Edmonton homes including metal, wood and tile. If you have a low-pitched or flat roof, you’ll need a special roofing system altogether. Here is some information on different types of roofing, including the pros and cons of each. Photo Credit: Crest Roofing & Co.

Asphalt Roof

Pros: Asphalt roofing is the most affordable roofing option. Asphalt shingles are durable, stand up well to Alberta’s changing climate and can last 15 or more. They come in a variety of colours and can easily match your home’s exterior design. Roofing contractors in Edmonton usually offer good warranties on asphalt roofs that are owner-transferrable…

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You probably don’t think about your plumbing system very often, until there is a problem! Once you do detect an issue, it should get your immediate attention. Putting off repairing your plumbing could result in expensive water damage and even more costly repairs. It’s also important to look for plumbing issues in a home you might be considering to purchase. Anything causing water damage or moisture issues could mean there is mildew and mould lurking in the walls. If so, this can be hazardous to your health and will have to be dealt with immediately. Moisture can also damage the insulation, framing, drywall and other parts of the home and can be a real headache to deal with. Though the majority of the plumbing system is inside the walls, there are some…

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If your driveway is cracked, sinking in areas and generally looking worse-for-wear, it might be time for a new concrete driveway. Not only will a new driveway improve curb appeal, it will also boost resale value, make shoveling snow easier and give you extra space to park your vehicles. Photo Credit: Con-Tile Industries Here are the advantages to installing a new concrete driveway:

Concrete will increase property value.

Boost your curb appeal and you’ll boost your home’s resale value. If you’re planning on selling, a good first impression can actually add value to your home. The driveway and walkways are the first things a potential home buyer is going to see when they check out your house. If your concrete is sinking and in dire need of…

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Building a fence around your property has many benefits. A solid fence is both decorative and practical as it adds attractiveness, security and privacy to your yard. A fence will provide your family with a safe and secluded outdoor living space for your entertaining, relaxing, gardening and for your children to play in. An attractive fence will also increase your property value and make your home more marketable when it comes time to sell. Photo credit: Soldan Fence & Metals Hiring a fence contractor in Edmonton will ensure your fence is built properly and that all local regulations and building permits are obtained for the project. Alternatively, you could choose to build the fence yourself. Here are some DIY tips on how to build a fence:

Obtain a…

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Planning a renovation project in your home can be especially challenging if you're living there while the work is being done. Add a couple kids and pets to the mix and you've got yourself a very chaotic household. Whether you're doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, once your project is underway even simple tasks will be difficult. Personal items will be moved from their usual spots, tools and equipment will block well-traveled traffic areas, and work zone noise and dust will permeate your entire home. To reduce the stress associated with your disrupted routine you'll need to take these crucial steps BEFORE you start these home renovations: The first thing you'll want to do: Set up a temporary family staging centre in an area away from…

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Building a deck will enhance your outdoor living space by giving you a place to relax, dine, entertain and spend time as a family. Building a deck will increase your own personal enjoyment of your yard and will also enhance the value of your home. Photo credit: Alberta Vinyl Decking & Railing Ltd. Here are some reasons why you should build a deck:

Increase your property value.

If you think you’d enjoy having a new deck, you can assume potential buyers would feel the same way. An outdoor living space is attractive to buyers, can help you sell your home faster and will increase your property value. According to Remodelling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report for 2017, you can expect to recoup over 71% of the cost of building your deck. The numbers of…

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Home automation allows you to control systems in your home with a touch of a button. Where the first home automation systems were controlled only by a central panel, the latest in automation and mobile technology now allows homeowners to control their system from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Home automation in Edmonton can be installed during construction of a new home and in existing homes. Home automation can enhance your lifestyle and enjoyment of your home by adding luxury and convenience, enabling you to control things like lighting, blinds, temperature, music and video. They can also help protect your home and family through high-tech security systems and help you save on energy bills through energy efficient…

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It’s all about curb appeal. Making that first good impression on potential home buyers starts with how your home looks like from the street. A well-designed landscape, green lawn, beautiful trees and maintained walkways will make it more aesthetically pleasing and could boost your resale value. In the same way that good landscaping can attract buyers to your property, bad landscaping or an unkempt yard can turn them away. Professional landscapers in Edmonton can help you improve your home’s curb appeal, help you get a better return on investment and create an outdoor space you’re going to love using in the meantime. Photo credit: RCL Canada Landscape Contractors & Supply According to an article published on House Logic about landscaping to increase…

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If you have older windows or if they are damaged, you could be losing a lot of energy and should consider a window replacement. Some tell-tale signs that your windows need replacing include:

  • fog or condensation build up
  • rot or mould on wooden window frames
  • obvious warping or damage to the frame
  • drafts
  • cracked or peeling caulking
Your windows are the biggest culprit for energy loss in your home. If your windows are suffering any of the symptoms listed above, you could be losing more energy than you think and paying way too much on your utility bills each month.

Save energy and money with ENERGY STAR certified windows.

If you’re in the market for new energy efficient windows, you should choose windows that are ENERGY STAR…

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