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#8 – December 2024: Get Your Home Holiday-Ready!

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better time to transform your home into a warm and welcoming space for family and friends. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or simply want to spread holiday cheer, The HandyForce is here to help you prepare your home for the festivities ahead. Let’s dive into some essential tasks to get your home holiday-ready:

1. Installation of Holiday Decorations:
Bring the magic of the season indoors by decking the halls with festive decorations. From twinkling lights and garlands to wreaths and ornaments, adding holiday decor can instantly uplift your home’s ambiance and create a joyful atmosphere.

Tip: Consider hiring professional decorators for elaborate displays or outdoor lighting installations to ensure a stunning and stress-free result.

2. Guest Room Preparations:
If you’ll be hosting overnight guests during the holidays, ensure your guest rooms are comfortable and inviting. Freshen up bedding, provide extra blankets and pillows for added coziness, and clear out clutter to create a welcoming retreat for your visitors.

Tip: Add thoughtful touches like a bedside lamp, books or magazines, and a small basket of toiletries to make your guests feel at home.

3. Kitchen Tune-Ups for Holiday Cooking:
The heart of the home during the holidays is often the kitchen, where delicious meals are prepared and memories are made. Ensure your kitchen is ready for the extra cooking and baking with a few simple tune-ups. Clean and organize your pantry and cabinets, sharpen knives, and stock up on essential ingredients.

Tip: Schedule appliance maintenance checks to ensure your oven, stove, and dishwasher are in top working condition for holiday meal prep and cleanup.

4. Safety and Comfort Checks:
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s important to prioritize safety and comfort for you and your guests. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, ensure walkways and stairs are well-lit and free of hazards, and keep fire extinguishers readily accessible.

Tip: Create a designated area for coats and bags near the entrance to keep your home tidy and organized during gatherings.

As you prepare your home for the holiday season, remember that The HandyForce is here to assist you every step of the way. From hanging holiday lights to preparing guest rooms, we’re here to help make your holiday season merry and bright. Contact us today to schedule your holiday home preparations.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and love!

Warm regards,

-The HandyForce Team

Winter-Proof Your Home: Essential Maintenance Tips

As the winter months approach, ensuring your home is prepared for the colder weather is key to comfort, safety, and cost-efficiency. Many homeowners overlook simple maintenance tasks that can save significant money and prevent potential disasters. Let’s look at a few essential steps to winter-proof your home, with a focus on services The HandyForce can assist with to make this process seamless.

1. Seal Gaps and Cracks Around Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors are a leading cause of heat loss, increasing your energy bills and making your home less comfortable. Conduct a thorough inspection of your windows and doors to identify gaps or cracks where cold air can seep in. While DIY weatherstripping is an option, it can sometimes be a temporary fix. The HandyForce offers professional caulking and weatherstripping services, ensuring a tight seal that lasts through the harshest winters.

Properly sealing these areas not only keeps your home warm but also reduces wear and tear on your heating system, which no longer has to work overtime to maintain a consistent temperature.

2. Clean and Inspect Gutters

During winter, clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, where melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge. Ice dams can cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to leaks and significant water damage inside your home. Before the first snow, make sure to clean out leaves, dirt, and debris from your gutters. Check for sagging sections or leaks that might exacerbate issues when heavy ice or snow accumulates.

If climbing a ladder isn’t your idea of fun—or safety—The HandyForce can handle your gutter cleaning and repair needs, ensuring proper drainage and safeguarding your roof against winter hazards.

3. Inspect Your Furnace and Heating Systems

Your furnace or heating system is your home’s lifeline during winter, so it’s important to check that it’s in good working condition. Replace air filters and consider scheduling a professional tune-up to ensure maximum efficiency. Poorly maintained furnaces not only work harder (costing more) but can also fail when you need them most.

Though The HandyForce focuses on handyman services, they can coordinate trusted professionals in their network to assist with your HVAC needs. Having a team you trust takes the guesswork out of finding reliable help.

4. Protect Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes are a common winter hazard, but they’re entirely preventable. Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas, like basements, attics, or garages. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior water valves to prevent freezing. For an added layer of protection, The HandyForce can assist in insulating your pipes and performing a general winter-readiness check around your home.

5. Prepare for Winter Storms

Finally, stock up on essentials like salt, sand, and shovels for snow removal. If you have a generator, test it now to ensure it’s functioning properly. Clear pathways around your property to avoid accidents during icy conditions.

Winter-proofing your home is an investment in comfort and peace of mind. Many of these tasks might seem small but can have a big impact on how your home handles the winter months. Whether it’s sealing drafts, cleaning gutters, or prepping plumbing, The HandyForce is ready to help you tackle your home maintenance needs. Get in touch today to ensure your home is prepared for whatever winter throws your way!

Now Let Me Tell You About Our Proprietary Portal

In today’s business environment, efficiency and streamlined operations are crucial to success. At The HandyForce, we understand this better than anyone, which is why we’ve developed our proprietary software portal – a game changer for our franchise locations. Let me walk you through how this innovative tool was designed with one goal in mind: Simplify your business in order to maximize profitability.

Comprehensive Business Management

The Portal is custom designed to handle every aspect of your business operations seamlessly. Here’s what it offers:

  • Lead Nurturing: Never miss an opportunity. The Portal tracks and manages leads from initial contact through to conversion, ensuring a health funnel.
  • Quoting and Invoicing: Generate precise quotes and handle invoicing efficiently, reducing errors and saving valuable time.
  • Task Management: Keep tabs on all jobs and tasks with ease. The Portal ensures that every project is on track and deadlines are met, enhancing customer experience and satisfaction.

Simplified Payroll and Vendor Management

Managing payroll and vendor relationships can be daunting, but not with The Portal:

  • Payroll Management: Process payroll with integrated tools that track hours and calculate pay accurately, making running payroll a simple task.
  • Vendor Management: Maintain smooth and organized relationships with suppliers and vendors, ensuring your business operations are never disrupted.

Enhanced Client Communication

Communication is key to any successful business. The Portal ensures you stay connected with your clients:

  • Client Communication: Streamline all your client interactions in one place. Whether it’s scheduling, updates, or feedback, The Portal makes it easy to keep your clients informed and satisfied.

Marketing and Analytics

Understanding and optimizing your marketing efforts is vital. The Portal provides:

  • Marketing Tools: Leverage targeted campaigns to attract and retain the right clients. Our tools are designed to maximize your reach and impact.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Access detailed analytics to monitor performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions that propel your business forward. By using these reports you can determine gaps in the business as well as where to spend your marketing dollars effectively.

User-Friendly Interface

We know that ease of use is important, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy. The Portal features a user-friendly interface that makes it simple to navigate and utilize all its powerful features effectively.

Continuous Support and Updates

Technology is always evolving, and so are we. Our team provides continuous support and regular updates to ensure The Portal remains cutting-edge and effective in meeting your business needs.

At HandyForce, our proprietary portal is more than just software; it’s a comprehensive solution designed to streamline your operations, enhance efficiency, and support your business growth. By simplifying complex tasks and providing powerful tools, we empower our franchisees to focus on what truly matters—building a successful business.

Ready to see how The Portal can transform your business? Contact us today to learn more about joining the HandyForce family and leveraging this incredible tool for your success.

#7 – November 2024: Enhance Your Indoor Comfort This Winter.

As the chill of winter begins to set in, the focus shifts from outdoor activities to creating a warm and inviting indoor environment. At The HandyForce, we understand the importance of comfort and ambiance during the colder months. This November, we’re here to help you tackle indoor projects that will enhance your living space and ensure you enjoy every moment spent indoors. Here are some key areas to focus on:

1. Update Your Lighting:
Shorter days and less natural light can make your home feel less inviting. Consider updating your indoor lighting to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Adding layered lighting options like floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces can help you adjust the ambiance to suit any mood or activity.

Tip: Use LED bulbs with a “warm” color temperature for areas where you relax, such as the living room or bedroom, to enhance the feeling of warmth.

2. Indoor Air Quality Checks:
Spending more time indoors means the quality of your indoor air is more important than ever. Replace HVAC filters to keep your heating system running efficiently and to improve air quality. Consider adding a humidifier to maintain healthy moisture levels, which can prevent dry skin and respiratory issues.

Tip: Indoor plants not only beautify your space but can also improve air quality by removing toxins and producing oxygen.

3. Cozy Interior Decor Upgrades:
Refresh your interior decor with touches that add comfort and warmth. Swap out lighter summer fabrics for thicker drapes and plush throw blankets. Add area rugs to bare floors for extra warmth underfoot, and consider updating your throw pillows to richer, deeper colors that reflect the season.

Tip: Layer textures and fabrics—such as wool, fleece, and velvet—to create a sense of depth and warmth in your living spaces.

4. Seal Drafts:
To ensure maximum comfort, check for drafts around windows and doors and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Keeping the cold air out will make your home more energy-efficient and cozy.

Tip: Install draft stoppers on door bottoms and use window insulation kits to further prevent heat loss.

This November, let The HandyForce assist you with your indoor comfort projects, from upgrading your lighting to improving your home’s air quality. We’re here to help you make your home the perfect retreat from the cold. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

Warm Regards,

-The HandyForce Team

How to Increase Your Home’s Energy Efficiency with Simple Upgrades

Upgrading your home’s energy efficiency has many benefits. Not only will you save money on your utility bills, but you will also be more sustainable as your climate footprint will have less of an impact on the environment.

Depending on the type of upgrade, there are also other benefits, such as improved indoor climate and comfort and increased overall value of your home. So today, we will discuss some of the most popular upgrades. Enjoy!

Insulation

Living in Canada, insulation is a key component in any home across the country. And this technology is always evolving, with new techniques and better materials becoming available on the market.

Many homes stand to benefit from insulating their water and heating pipes. This relatively small investment can be done in just a few days or less, depending on the size of your home.

Insulating any areas that connect to the outside is also helpful. This will lower energy consumption and reduce the amount of moisture in the air, resulting in a better indoor climate. Older homes tend to have relatively thin layers of insulation, so in many cases, adding more can significantly improve it.

Green Energy

Installing solar panels on the roof can lead to an energy-neutral home or at least significantly lower your monthly electricity bills. You can choose to use the electricity for your appliances or convert some of it into heating that can help keep you warm and cozy.

The prices of solar panels have been on a steady decline due to the popularity and adoption of the units, leading to better returns than was possible just 5 or 10 years ago. While it typically requires skilled professionals and is one of the more complex items on our list, the investment can often pay for itself in 10-15 years.

Electrical Appliances and Lighting

If you are still using traditional lightbulbs, you might want to consider switching to LED bulbs. They are not much more expensive to buy and will typically only consume 5 to 10% of the electricity normal light bulbs do.

Upgrading your electrical appliances to ones with better energy ratings can also lead to improved efficiency. A modern oven will typically use around 60% of the power your older one does, resulting in a quite significant improvement.

These days, you can also choose smart outlets or plugs that conserve power when not in use. Over the course of a year, the standby functions of an average flatscreen TV will actually consume a fair share of electricity, but with smart outlets, you can easily avoid this unnecessary cost.

Water Consumption

Upgrading your kitchen faucet or showerhead in your bathroom can also significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. Depending on the models, you can get a faucet that reduces your water use by up to 50% while keeping the same flow that you are used to.

This can be particularly useful for larger families, but anyone should see a significant reduction and help conserve our natural resources in an environmentally conscious way at the same time.

If you are looking for more inspiration or help installing your energy upgrades, contact us at The HandyForce today. Our expert advisors can help you choose the best options for your specific needs, and our professional handymen can install your upgrades for the best results.

Your Future with The HandyForce – The Franchise Built for Success: PART 2

We understand the importance of effective marketing in building a successful business. Our marketing systems are designed to attract and retain the right clients, ensuring a steady flow of high-quality leads.

Marketing Advantages:

  • Targeted Campaigns: Our marketing strategies are tailored to reach your ideal clients, maximizing your return on investment.
  • Local and Online Presence: We combine local marketing tactics with robust online campaigns to enhance your visibility.
  • Continuous Support: Receive ongoing coaching and training to refine your marketing efforts and achieve your goals.

By leveraging our marketing expertise, you can focus on delivering exceptional service while we help drive new business to your location.

Support and Training from Industry Experts

When you join The HandyForce, you’re not just buying a franchise; you’re gaining a partner dedicated to your success. Our support and training programs are designed to ensure you have everything you need to scale your business.

Support System:

  • Initial Training: Comprehensive training on business operations, customer service, and marketing.
  • Ongoing Assistance: Continuous support from our experienced team to help you navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
  • Community of Franchisees: Join a network of like minded entrepreneurs who share insights and support each other. Be an integral part of a growing community of like minded entrepreneurs.

Our commitment to your success means you’re never alone in your business journey. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Thriving Market Opportunity

The handyman and home improvement market in Canada is vast and growing. With a market size of approximately $38.5 billion in 2022, the demand for professional handyman services continues to rise​ (Made in CA)​​ (Future Insights)​. Whether it’s electrical repairs, plumbing, or general maintenance, homeowners and businesses alike are seeking reliable services to maintain and improve their properties.

Market Highlights:

  • High Demand: Canadians are investing significantly in home improvements, creating a robust market for handyman services.
  • Diverse Services: From minor repairs to major renovations, the variety of services needed ensures a steady stream of business.
  • Growth Potential: The market is expected to continue growing, offering ample opportunities for expansion and profitability.

By investing in a HandyForce franchise, you’re entering a market with sustained demand and significant growth potential.

Take the Next Step Towards Your Future

If you’re ready to take control of your career and financial future, HandyForce offers the perfect opportunity. With our unique business model, comprehensive support, and proven marketing systems, you can build a thriving business without needing technical skills. Click here to learn more about becoming a HandyForce franchisee and start your journey towards entrepreneurial success today!

#6 – October 2024: Enhance Your Home Safety and Security This Fall.

October brings cooler days, vibrant foliage, and the preparation for winter. At The HandyForce, we believe that your family’s safety and the security of your home should never take a back seat. This month, we’re focusing on critical safety and security measures that every homeowner should consider to ensure a safe, warm, and secure environment as the colder months approach.

1. Security Checks: Safeguard Your Home
Conduct a thorough security check around your home. Ensure that all locks on doors and windows function properly and consider upgrading to high-security models if necessary. Check that exterior lighting is adequate, especially in entryways and pathways, to deter potential intruders.

Tip: Install motion sensor lights to enhance security and convenience, illuminating dark areas of your yard or driveway when needed.

2. Fire Safety Measures: Protect Against Fire Hazards
Test all smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed. Smoke detectors should be on every floor of your home, including the basement and near all sleeping areas. Also, review your family’s fire escape plan and ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of a fire.

Tip: Consider installing smoke detectors that are interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound, ensuring you are alerted no matter your location in the home.

3. Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Prevent CO Poisoning
As we start to seal our homes against the cold and turn on heating systems, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases. Ensure your home has carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping areas and on each level, including the basement. Test these alarms and replace batteries as necessary.

Tip: Never use generators, grills, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning devices inside your home or garage. Ensure that your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances are serviced by a qualified technician every year.

4. Emergency Preparedness: Ready for Winter
Prepare an emergency kit that includes necessities like water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, and extra batteries. Also, prepare for potential power outages by ensuring you have warm blankets, clothing, and an alternative heating source like a wood stove or fireplace.

Tip: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local authorities and service providers, easily accessible to all family members.

As we head into the latter part of the year, it’s crucial to take these proactive steps to ensure your home is a safe haven for your family. If you need assistance with installing smoke detectors, security upgrades, or any other home safety improvements, don’t hesitate to reach out to The HandyForce. Your safety is our priority.

Stay Safe and Secure,

-The HandyForce Team

Your Future with The HandyForce – The Franchise Built for Success

Are you tired of the office monotony or corporate drudgery? Are you looking to take control of your schedule or a fresh start in a booming industry? Investing in a HandyForce franchise could be the perfect opportunity for you. Here, we’ll explore the unique selling points that make HandyForce an exceptional choice for aspiring franchise owners.

Entrepreneurial Freedom Without the Need to Be Handy

One of the most compelling aspects of owning a HandyForce franchise is that you don’t need to be a handyman to succeed. Our business model is designed for entrepreneurs who want to focus on building and managing a business rather than performing the technical tasks themselves. This allows you to leverage your business acumen and leadership skills to drive growth and profitability.

Key Benefits:

  • Focus on Management: Your primary role will be to oversee operations, manage your team, and strategize for growth.
  • Leverage Existing Skills: Utilize your existing skills in business management, customer service, and leadership to excel.
  • Comprehensive Training: We provide extensive training to ensure you’re well-equipped to run the business, even without prior handyman experience.

Proprietary Software for Streamlined Operations

A competitive advantage for The HandyForce is our proprietary software designed to simplify every aspect of running your business. Our technology ensures efficiency and accuracy, allowing you to focus on strategic growth.

Features:

  • Lead Nurturing: Manage and convert leads seamlessly, ensuring a steady stream of business.
  • Quoting and Invoicing: Generate accurate quotes and handle invoicing with ease, reducing administrative burdens.
  • Task Management: Keep track of all jobs and tasks, ensuring timely completion and customer satisfaction.
  • Payroll Management: Simplify payroll processing, saving you time and reducing errors.
  • Vendor Management: Maintain organized relationships with suppliers and vendors for smooth operations.
  • Client Communication: Stay connected with your clients, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.

Our software takes the hassle out of day to day operations, allowing you to run your business efficiently and effectively.

The HandyForce franchise offers a unique opportunity to break free from the constraints of traditional employment and embark on a path of entrepreneurial success. With a focus on business management rather than technical skills, along with comprehensive training and cutting-edge software, The HandyForce empowers franchisees to thrive in a growing industry. If you’re ready to take control of your future, tap into a proven system, and make a lasting impact in your community, then The HandyForce might just be the perfect fit for your next career move. Take the leap and start building your legacy today!

Curb Appeal Makeover: Simple Ways to Enhance Your Home’s Exterior

Ensuring that your home looks as inviting as possible is crucial when it comes to increasing the value, but also in terms of enjoying coming home after a long day. Ensuring that the curb appeal is pleasing and inviting goes a long way in making your home feel like your own personal sanctuary.

There are many ways to achieve a more pleasing exterior, and many homeowners can get lost in the possibilities. Today, we will explore some of the most effective but simple ways to enhance the overall look of your home and dramatically increase its curb appeal. Enjoy!

Painting the Exterior of Your Home

While it might not be the most exciting task, painting your home in a fitting color scheme that complements your surroundings can improve the first impression. You should consider not only your own home but also, to some extent, the overall look of the neighborhood in order to find the best possible color.

If in doubt, we recommend going for a more neutral color, as this will not be as easily outdated when trends change. It will also appeal to a larger customer base if you are planning on selling your home sometime in the future. 

Upgrade Your Front Door

Sticking with the home itself, replacing the existing front door with a new and decorative one can create an almost surprising change in its overall appearance. There are many styles to choose from, from classic and traditional ones to more modern ones with contemporary lines and designs.

Alternatively, installing new hardware, such as door knobs, handles, and even a knocker, can also improve the curb appeal and make your home stand out from the rest on your street. Bonus points if you install surveillance at the front door, such as a smart doorbell or other cameras, to help keep your property safe.

Consider Landscaping

Landscaping can be much more than mowing the lawn when the grass is too tall. A beautifully kept front yard can greatly impact your overall curb appeal, and if you add colorful flowers, fruit bushes, or shrubs and trees that attract wildlife, you can create a vibrant and interesting outdoor space.

At The HandyForce, we love helping people improve their curb appeal through our landscaping services. We can design new and interesting landscaping features or help maintain and maintain your existing ones. Contact us today for more information.

Pressure Wash Exterior Surfaces

Dirt, grime, and mildew detract from the overall exterior. Luckily, these can easily be removed with a pressure washer, and they are also quite affordable and quick to do. Whether you wish to do this yourself or let someone like us handle the project is your choice entirely.

In particular, we recommend pressure washing the sidewalk and driveway and any exterior walls showing signs of algae or other unwanted particles. Not only will this improve your curb appeal, but also help prolong the lifespan of your home.

Install Outdoor Lighting

Finally, adding lights that illuminate your property in the evening will not only make it cozier and more accessible at all hours, but it can also help deter would-be trespassers. Many types of outdoor lights are available these days, from solar-powered lights to complete systems that can be controlled remotely.

Combine your outdoor lights with the previous two items on our list for even better results, as your lights will help frame your landscaping efforts and showcase your beautifully clean exterior surfaces. They can also help highlight any particular points of interest in your home, such as architectural features and so on.

The Importance of Regular Home Maintenance: A Checklist for Every Season

Regular maintenance is necessary if you want to keep your home in the best shape possible. The effort you put into these seasonal tasks directly affects how expensive repairs will be if things go wrong, cuts down on time needed if things get out of hand, and can even help you protect your property investment better due to better durability and a prolonged lifespan.

Therefore, we have compiled a checklist covering all four seasons so you can get a good overview of some of the most important maintenance tasks to cover year-round. Most of the items on this list can be performed by yourself, or you can hire a professional handyman to relieve you of the burden and stress involved. Enjoy!

Maintenance During Spring

After the darker winter months, many of the maintenance tasks move outside to ensure that the snow and cold have not caused too much damage. Now is also when you will need to consider doing yardwork to keep the grass or weeds from growing too tall and troublesome.

  • Inspect the roof
  • Inspect the exterior siding
  • Clean the gutters
  • Service the HVAC system
  • Maintain your lawn
  • Check for pest infestations
  • Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Check outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
  • Clean windows and screens
  • Check and repair outdoor lighting

Maintenance During Summer

Many of the tasks from spring still apply during the summer, such as moving your lawn or checking for pests. As Canadian families tend to spend more time outside during this time, certain tasks become more important to ensure a safe and inviting environment and keep everything in working order.

  • Inspect and clean outdoor decks and patios
  • Power wash the exterior surfaces
  • Check and repair any cracks in driveways or walkways
  • Prune the trees and shrubs
  • Clean and maintain the outdoor furniture and grill
  • Check and repair window screens
  • Test and service the air conditioning system
  • Inspect and repair the caulking around doors and windows
  • Check for leaks in hoses and sprinkler systems
  • Inspect and repair any damaged fences and gates

Maintenance During Fall

Once the days begin to grow shorter, it is time to prepare for the cold winds and increased rainfall. These tasks will help you maintain a home in good shape and protect against wind and water damage from the seasonal changes in the weather.

  • Rake the leaves and clean the gutters
  • Inspect and clean the fireplace and chimney
  • Seal any gaps and cracks around the doors and windows
  • Drain and prepare outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for winter
  • Inspect and service the heating system
  • Clean and stow away the outdoor furniture and garden tools
  • Check insulation in the attic and crawl spaces
  • Test and replace all batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Check for drafts around the doors and windows
  • Inspect and repair any roof shingles and flashing with signs of damage

Maintenance During Winter

The Canadian winters can be rough, so it is important to properly prepare for the cold times ahead. As you can see, the checklist is focused on preventing cold damage, in particular, to keep your home warm and comfortable.

  • Inspect and clean your snow removal equipment
  • Check and replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows
  • Check for ice dams on the roof
  • Insulate any pipes in unheated areas
  • Test and service the generator if you have one
  • Clean and maintain your humidifiers
  • Monitor the indoor humidity levels
  • Check for drafts around electrical outlets and switches
  • Check and replace the furnace filters
  • Inspect and clean the dryer vents

If you find that some of these tasks are becoming too much trouble to keep up with, The HandyForce employs a dedicated, experienced handymen who are always ready to step in and help out. Contact us today to learn more.