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Category: Exterior

#5 – September 2024: Fall Preparations for Your Home.

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As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, it’s clear that fall is on the horizon. At The HandyForce, we want to ensure your home is prepared for the cooler weather ahead. This month, we’re focusing on essential maintenance to keep your home warm and cozy throughout the fall and into the winter months. Here are our top tips for getting your home ready:

1. Heating System Check-Up: Stay Warm and Efficient
Before the cold sets in, it’s crucial to have your heating system checked and serviced. An annual maintenance check can extend the life of your system, improve energy efficiency, and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Tip: Don’t forget to replace your furnace filters! A clean filter improves air flow and efficiency, making your home easier and cheaper to heat.

2. Insulate Windows and Doors: Seal in the Warmth
Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating bills. Check for drafts by holding a lit candle near window and door frames; flickering indicates air leaks. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps and keep the warm air inside.

Tip: Consider installing thermal curtains to provide an extra layer of insulation against cold window panes during the chillier months.

3. Fireplace Safety: Cozy Up with Confidence
If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s safe to use before building your first autumn fire. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional to prevent chimney fires and ensure proper ventilation.

Tip: Check that your fireplace damper is operational to keep drafts out when the fireplace is not in use and to control airflow when a fire is lit.

4. Prepare Your Plumbing: Avoid Freezing Pipes
Protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures by insulating pipes that run along exterior walls. This can prevent freezing and bursting, which are costly and inconvenient to repair.

Tip: Know how to shut off your water in case a pipe does freeze and burst, to minimize water damage.

5. Gutter Cleaning: Prevent Water Damage
Fallen leaves and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water damage as rainwater overflows. Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure they direct water away from your foundation.

Tip: Consider installing gutter guards to minimize the amount of debris that collects in your gutters.

Preparing your home for fall doesn’t have to be daunting. The HandyForce is here to help with any maintenance, repairs, or upgrades you need. Let’s make sure your home is as ready as you are for the season ahead!

Happy Fall,

-The HandyForce Team

We’re Building Something Special at The HandyForce!

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Following the successful launch of our franchise in North York, we are excited to announce that we are expanding and looking for amazing franchise partners in East Mississauga, Richmond Hill and Etobicoke. If you’ve ever considered owning your own business, this might be the perfect opportunity.

Not Handy? No Problem!

Our scalable franchise model has been designed for entrepreneurs who want to focus on building and managing their business, not performing the technical tasks. We provide comprehensive training and support to ensure you have all the knowledge to be successful. Additionally, our proprietary software handles everything from lead nurturing and quoting to task management and payroll, streamlining your operations, freeing you up to concentrate on growth. This unique approach means you can leverage your leadership skills and desire to succeed matched with our experience, systems and support to build a profitable business.

I invite you to schedule a call HERE to discuss our franchise opportunity and how we can help you realize your entrepreneurial dream in order to take control of your financial future.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Budget-Friendly Renovation Tips: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

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If you wish to renovate your home and achieve the highest return in terms of value, there are many good ideas to follow, but also quite a few pitfalls. Not all improvements and renovations are profitable when it comes to increasing the home value.

In order to help you get the most bang for your buck when renovating, we have compiled a list of the most common renovations that homeowners consider and provided a guide to which ones pay dividends on your investment and which ones should be considered for personal enjoyment and not financial gain. Enjoy!

Renovating the Bathroom

One of the best things you can do in older homes is to renovate the bathroom. Most potential buyers will have trouble seeing themselves living in an outdated bathroom, and while they might be up for renovating it down the line, it adds uncertainty and can cloud their judgment.

Depending on your home type, you can either opt for high-quality materials and go all out or be more sensible and choose a cost-effective bathroom renovation. The rule of thumb is that the more expensive your home is, the more it will make sense to spend on a luxury bathroom.

Renovating the Kitchen

Another popular and often worthwhile investment is remodeling your kitchen. In general, a new kitchen of lower quality tends to be worth more in the eyes of potential buyers than a 25-year-old kitchen with more expensive materials.

However, even though you might not need to invest in marble tabletops or other high-quality items, the kitchen should still look clean and finished, often requiring professional handymen to ensure the renovation goes smoothly.

Adding an Extra Bathroom

Many potential buyers prefer looking at homes with 2 or more bathrooms. Consider the layout of your current floor plan and how a family with multiple children might divide up the space. Would it make sense to add an extra bathroom? If so, the investment might pay itself back and then some.

Typically, it will be more cost-effective to use an existing home room than building a new addition to the house, but either solution can work in the right area and under the right conditions. This way, not only will your home increase in value directly, but it will also appeal to a larger audience.

New Roof

Replacing the existing and worn roof can be a clever financial decision if you plan to sell your home soon. The roof is something most buyers worry about and also something that they all notice when first arriving.

Making sure that new buyers have no concerns about putting money aside for a new roof after moving in can make them comfortable bidding on your home. It can also be beneficial if you add more insulation to increase energy efficiency and reduce utility costs in the long term, bringing us to our final tip.

Improving the Insulation

Last but not least, adding more insulation can be another great investment in terms of the value of your home. It will also have the added benefit of lowering your utility bills while you still live there and contributing to less of an environmental impact as well.

Not all types of insulation are cost-effective, so it can be a good idea to consult with professionals to determine which areas of your home would provide the best return. If you wish to learn more or get a quote, please contact us today and schedule an appointment or consultation.

#3 – July 2024: Midsummer Home Check-Up.

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As we reach the midpoint of the year, it’s the perfect time to give your home a midsummer check-up to ensure everything is in top shape for the rest of the year. At The HandyForce, we’re here to help you tackle those essential maintenance tasks and keep your home running smoothly. Let’s dive into some important checks you should consider this month:

1. Roof Inspections: Protect Your Shelter
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s crucial to ensure it’s in good condition. Schedule a professional roof inspection to check for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles, leaks, or weakened areas.

2. Plumbing Checks: Prevent Costly Leaks
A small plumbing leak can quickly turn into a big problem if left unchecked. Take the time to inspect your plumbing fixtures, including faucets, toilets, and pipes, for any signs of leaks. Addressing issues early can save you time and money down the line.

3. Refreshing Paint: Revitalize Your Space
Give your home a fresh new look by touching up any areas where the paint has started to fade or chip. Not only will a fresh coat of paint enhance your home’s appearance, but it will also help protect surfaces from the elements.

4. HVAC Maintenance: Stay Cool and Comfortable
With the summer heat in full swing, your HVAC system is working hard to keep you cool. Schedule a professional maintenance check to ensure your system is running efficiently and to catch any potential issues before they escalate.

5. Exterior Maintenance: Keep Your Curb Appeal
Take a walk around the exterior of your home to check for any maintenance needs. This includes cleaning out gutters, trimming trees and shrubs away from the house, and repairing any damaged siding or trim.

6. Safety Checks: Peace of Mind for Your Family
Finally, don’t forget about safety! Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re in working order, and review your family’s emergency plan in case of any unforeseen events.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to preserving the value and integrity of your home. If you need assistance with any of these tasks, don’t hesitate to reach out to The HandyForce. Our skilled team is here to help you keep your home in top condition year-round.

Wishing you a happy and hassle-free midsummer!

Best regards,

-The HandyForce Team

#2 – June 2024: Elevate Your Outdoor Living Spaces!

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As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s time to make the most of your outdoor living spaces! At The HandyForce, we’re excited to help you transform your patio, deck, or garden into the perfect retreat for relaxation and entertainment. Let’s dive into some tips and ideas for enhancing your outdoor oasis this summer!

1. Deck Revival: Refresh and Renew
Is your deck showing signs of wear and tear from the winter months? Now’s the perfect time to give it a refresh! Whether it’s re-staining, replacing boards, or adding new features like built-in seating or planters, our team can help breathe new life into your deck.

2. Patio Perfection: Create a Cozy Retreat
Transform your patio into a cozy outdoor living room where you can unwind after a long day or host gatherings with friends and family. Consider adding comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, and decorative lighting to enhance the ambiance.

3. Garden Glory: Beautify Your Landscape
Make your garden the envy of the neighborhood with some simple enhancements. From planting colorful flowers and shrubs to adding decorative features like trellises or water features, there are countless ways to elevate your outdoor space.

4. Furniture Fix-Up: Restore and Relax
Is your outdoor furniture looking a bit worse for wear? Instead of replacing it, consider giving it a makeover! Our team can repair, refinish, or even custom-build furniture pieces that perfectly suit your style and space.

5. Fence Facelift: Enhance Privacy and Style
A well-maintained fence not only adds privacy but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. Whether it’s repairing damaged panels, adding decorative elements, or installing a new fence altogether, we’ve got you covered.

6. Outdoor Entertainment: Make Memories Under the Sun
From BBQs to movie nights, your outdoor space can be a hub of entertainment during the summer months. Consider adding features like a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or even a projector screen for alfresco movie nights.

Ready to transform your outdoor living spaces into the ultimate summer sanctuary? Just give us a call, and our team of skilled professionals will handle the rest. Let’s make this summer one to remember!

Warm regards,

-The HandyForce Team

Top 10 DIY Renovation Projects for Beginners

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Not all renovation projects require the hiring of professional contractors. Many DIY projects that beginners can perform still result in a beautiful finish when completed. Completing a DIY renovation project will not only make your home look and feel nicer, but it will also give you a well-deserved boost of confidence and pride.

However, certain projects are better suited for beginners than others. So today, we will be taking a closer look at which DIY projects you can try yourself and which projects might require the skilled hand of a professional in order to ensure a quality result. Enjoy!

Painting the Walls

Simply giving your walls a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the overall aesthetic and atmosphere in the room. Due to the relatively low amount of tools required, it is also one of the more affordable projects, making it a great place to start.

While almost everyone can wield a paintbrush, you would benefit from learning a few techniques in order to get a smooth finish that will stick to the walls for years to come. Depending on the surface, you might need to strip old wallpaper or sand down rough surfaces, so research before applying new paint.

Installing a Backsplash

The backsplash serves a practical function in your kitchen or bathroom by preventing your wall from being exposed to water or stains from other substances. This is another relatively easy project for beginners, and you have many different options in terms of materials and designs.

Updating Cabinet Hardware

Another small project that is quick and easy to do yourself is updating the cabinet hardware in your kitchen or even replacing door knobs around the home. This will instantly transform the cabinets or doors themselves, showcasing them in a new light.

Installing Shelving

As long as you have the right power tool, you should be able to install shelves in just about any type of wall with relative ease. Once you get past the initial worry of making mistakes and actually start drilling, you will become an expert at installing shelving in no time. And remember, most holes can be covered and hidden at a later date.

Laying Vinyl Flooring

Perhaps not the best project for a complete DIY beginner, laying vinyl flooring is a bit more advanced but still perfectly doable if you have the time and courage to try it. The tools required for this are also quite modest, as a few hand tools will typically be enough to lay your new floor fully.

Projects Better Left to Professionals

As we have now covered some of the projects suited for DIY beginners, it is also important to examine the other side of the coin. For instance, any plumbing or electrical work that involves installing new fixtures or components is typically not something you should do yourself, as there are dangers involved, not just in terms of damaging the structure or safety of your home, but also yourself.

The same goes for any structural modifications. While you might think it is easy to knock down that wall dividing your living room and kitchen, it is important to ensure it is not a load-bearing wall and to knock it down in the correct manner to ensure a smooth and safe result.

At The HandyForce, our professional handymen have the skills and experience to handle these complex projects safely and effectively, so if you are looking to get started with more advanced renovation projects, feel free to contact us and learn how we can help you.

#1 – May 2024: Prep Your Home for Summer!

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Welcome to our new monthly series! It is dedicated to bringing you useful and practical tips each month that you can use to help maintain and beautify your home. We really hope you find this new series valuable.

With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the heat and fun that this season brings. At The HandyForce, we’re excited to help you prepare your home so you can relax and enjoy the sunny days ahead. Here’s a checklist to get your home summer-ready inside and out!

1. AC Maintenance: Stay Cool and Efficient
Before the summer heat peaks, it’s crucial to have your air conditioning system checked and serviced. Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also keeps your AC running efficiently, which can save on energy bills.

Tip: Schedule a professional tune-up that includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. This will ensure your AC operates at peak performance when you need it most.

2. Pest Prevention: Seal Out Summer Bugs
Warm weather invites all kinds of pests, so it’s important to prevent them from becoming uninvited guests. Taking action now can save you discomfort and potentially costly pest control treatments later.

Tip: Inspect your home for any cracks or openings and seal them. Ensure window screens are intact and fix any holes to keep mosquitoes and other insects out. Consider natural deterrents like citronella candles or essential oils.

3. Prep Your Outdoor Spaces: Create Your Summer Sanctuary
Whether it’s barbecues, garden parties, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outside, preparing your outdoor living spaces can enhance your summer enjoyment.

Tip: Clean your patio or deck, arrange comfortable seating, and add some shade with umbrellas or a canopy. Spruce up your garden with new plants and ensure your outdoor lighting is working well for those lovely summer nights.

4. Safety Checks: Keep Your Cool Safely
With all the outdoor activities and home cooling needs, summer is a time to be extra cautious about home safety.

Tip: Check all outdoor electrical outlets and cords for safety. Keep grills and fire pits at a safe distance from flammable materials. Ensure your smoke detectors are working properly as open windows can lead to unexpected hazards.

We at The HandyForce are here to assist with any of these tasks—from AC maintenance to pest-proofing to decking out your outdoor spaces. Just give us a call, and we’ll handle the rest so you can focus on enjoying your summer.

Here’s to a wonderful and relaxed summer!

Have a wonderful May!

-The HandyForce

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

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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.

Of course, we can do all of this and more with out HomeCare Plan!

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

Click here to learn more about our HomeCare Plan!

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.

How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space

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While there is something to be said for a perfectly manicured and plain grass lawn, the same can be said for an outdoor area that has been designed to fit the needs of your entire family, allowing your children to explore the natural world, and provide a comfortable space for your gatherings and relaxing evenings.

In this article, we will look into different ways to make use of your backyard in an attempt to create the perfect outdoor living space, no matter your individual preferences and needs.  From building a cozy fire pit for those cool Canadian evenings to designing a vibrant garden oasis that thrives in our diverse climate, we will cover some of the most popular ideas. Enjoy!

Fire Pit and Cozy Seating

A fire pit is more than just a source of warmth, it is a focal point that brings people together. Imagine cool Canadian evenings illuminated by the flickering flames, creating an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to gather around.

When designing your outdoor space, consider the placement of the fire pit. It should be strategically positioned to maximize warmth while offering a clear view of the surroundings. As for seating you should opt for comfortable, weather-resistant furniture that encourages relaxation and conversation.

Fencing for Privacy and Security

Fences play a significant role in defining the boundaries of your outdoor space while offering a screen to block wind and nosy neighbors. When choosing a fence design, it is important to consider both the aesthetics and functionality, as well as taking the neighboring properties into account.

For a cohesive look, you should select a fence that complements the style of your home and outdoor decor. Popular choices in Canada include wooden fences that add warmth, metal fences for a contemporary touch, or natural materials like bamboo for a tropical vibe. Gates can also be added to the design as welcoming entryways, enhancing the curb appeal of your outdoor living space.

Outdoor Decks

An outdoor deck is a versatile extension of your home that offers endless possibilities for relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature. Whether attached to your house or built as a standalone platform in your yard, a well-designed deck can become the heart of your outdoor living space.

Begin by envisioning how you want to use the deck. Will it serve as a dining area, a lounge space, or a combination of both? The layout should accommodate your intended activities. If space permits, consider incorporating multiple levels or zones to cater to various functions and increase the visual interest.

Weather Protection and Lighting Solutions:

As our last item on the list, weather protection is vital to ensure your outdoor space remains usable year-round. Pergolas or awnings provide shelter from rain and harsh sun, while still allowing for an open and airy feel. Additionally, consider retractable screens that can be lowered to shield against insects or wind.

To extend the usability of your outdoor space into the evening hours, we recommend that you implement some creative lighting solutions. For instance, string lights can add a touch of magic and create a warm ambiance. And pathway lighting not only adds safety but also guides the way as the sun sets.

Small-Scale Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Typically homeowners consider large projects when brainstorming ways in which to increase their resale value. But not all renovations require you to add extra livable space or completely overhauling your property. Sometimes, it is the small-scale changes that can make a substantial impact on the perceived value of your home.

Today we will look closer at the art of strategic, small-scale renovations and how they can yield significant returns. From revitalizing key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to enhancing curb appeal through targeted exterior upgrades, this article will guide you through a range of impactful ideas that are affordable. Enjoy!

The Power of First Impressions

Let us start with the exterior, as this is typically what potential buyers see the first. And in fact, curb appeal can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and small-scale exterior upgrades can play a pivotal role in drawing in prospective buyers whether they see a for sale sign driving by, or browsing realtors online. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim, and shutters can instantly rejuvenate the facade of any home.

Landscaping is equally important, as well-maintained flower beds, manicured lawns, and neatly trimmed hedges create an inviting atmosphere. Enhance the entryway with potted plants and a clean welcome mat to make visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot on your property. Finally, old and worn fencing can detract substantially from the visual appeal, and is not that expensive to fix.

Kitchen Revitalization

Almost anyone looking to buy a home will look closely at the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home, and where most Canadian families spend a significant amount of time. While full renovations can be relatively expensive, the good news is that you do not need a complete overhaul to make an impact.

Strategic small-scale renovations to the kitchen can help make it much more appealing. Some of our favorite tips include updating the hardware with modern finishes that are in vogue, replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs.

If your budget allows, repainting cabinets and adding new, sleek handles can give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look. Modern light fixtures, such as pendant lights above an island or under-cabinet LED lighting, not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of sophistication.

Paint and Refresh

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to transform the look and feel of your home. When painting with resale in mind, neutral and light colors are preferable, as they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style and furniture in the space. A neutral palette also makes rooms feel larger and more open.

Consider painting over bold or dated colors that might not align with a wide range of tastes. Beyond walls, you should also pay attention to baseboards, trim, and ceilings to ensure a cohesive and polished appearance.

Return on Investment

Finally, while large-scale renovations can come with hefty price tags, small-scale improvements can offer substantial returns on your investment. The appeal of these small upgrades lies in their ability to make a noticeable difference without breaking the bank.

Another benefit of opting for smaller scale renovations, is that it often times leaves open the option of hiring contractors to help with the actual work. At The HandyForce we would love to hear more about your project, as we are experienced in renovations, whether interior or exterior.

We understand that changing the initial perception can result in higher offers and a faster sale process, ultimately providing a favorable return on the relatively modest investment you have made with your small-scale renovations. Good luck!