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The Psychology of Home Design: How Your Environment Affects Your Mood

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Over the years, the psychology of home design and how it can impact your mood has been well-researched and documented. While it has long been a topic in Asia through feng shui and other concepts, in the Western world, the topic recently flourished during the lockdown period when more people started to concern themselves with creating a positive atmosphere.

Today, we will explore current trends and how to achieve a better environment for work or relaxation. We will also guide you through some of our favorite tips to help you become free of stress and improve your mindset at home. Enjoy!

About the Psychology of Home Design

In general, the idea is that your home’s arrangement, organization, and interior design can have a big impact on your mind, whether negatively or positively. With more people working from home, companies have also begun encouraging employees to improve their home design to relax and experience less stress, hoping to increase productivity.

Considering that we spend a large amount of our time at home, ensuring that the space does not negatively impact our minds or attitudes is considered extremely important. Our mental well-being and overall comfort can not be ignored if we wish to live a happy and carefree life.

Increasing the Access to Sunlight

Living in a darker home without access to much natural light can directly impact your overall mood. It can also influence your energy levels and productivity. Research has shown that exposure to natural light increases serotonin levels, which are associated with mood regulation and a sense of well-being.

Installing skylight windows in your home can be an excellent way to fix this issue and add value to your property at the same time. You could also opt to install a regular window in rooms without much sunlight in order to reap the many benefits. Alternatively, you can purchase a sun lamp to keep with you while working to improve your energy levels that way for a cheaper solution.

Creating Open and Flowing Spaces

By knocking down a wall that obstructs your room or blocks out the natural light, you will get a more airy and lighter room, which can help promote a sense of freedom and openness. This will, in turn, positively influence your mood and make you feel more relaxed.

At the same time, knocking down walls or otherwise opening up your room by removing large pieces of furniture can also make your home feel more inviting, which can help your family or friends connect and feel more in tune with one another.

Installing Soundproofing

Excessive noise from neighbors or outside traffic is another factor that can greatly affect one’s overall mood. This is not only true when working from home on important projects but can also be a source of annoyance when you try to relax after a long day, as unwanted noise can disrupt your peace of mind.

By installing soundproofing materials in your walls, floor, and ceilings, you can reduce this level of unwanted noise, leading to fewer distractions and more quality time where you can unwind and experience the peace and bliss you deserve.

Working with a professional contractor, such as The HandyForce, will allow you to maximize the level of comfort and peace you experience in your home while also increasing the value of your property. Contact us today to learn more about what we can offer.

Creative Storage Solutions for Small Spaces: Tips and Tricks

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Living in smaller spaces can be cozy and intimate. And with the trend of downsizing becoming increasingly common in our modern society, and with the added benefit of requiring less energy and typically costing less, smaller spaces are a popular choice.

But living in smaller spaces also comes with its own set of challenges, as storing all your belongings can be difficult, and making enough room for comfortable living and hosting guests can be challenging. So today, we will help you with some creative storage solutions that will free up your clutter and make your home even more enjoyable to live in. Enjoy!

Choose Multipurpose Furniture

One of our top tips today concerns furniture that can be converted depending on the situation. Instead of having a large coffee table, consider a pouf or an ottoman with built-in storage. This soft and plush piece of furniture can be used as an extra seat when having guests over, while it can also be used as a coffee table if you place a tray on it.

You can be creative when thinking of ways to use your furniture for multiple functions, but you can also go traditional with wall-mounted shelves that double as a way of storing daily essentials and, at the same time, showcasing your favorite pieces of art or other decorative elements.

Baskets and Boxes

We love using baskets and boxes for storage since they are a great way to stay organized. They are also super easy to move around or stow away when necessary. When shopping for boxes in particular, try to find some that will fit under your couch or bed or even on top of your closet so they do not take up valuable floor space when not in use.

Baskets are great for larger items, and their warm and inviting look can make them appealing enough to keep out as long as you have room for them. Consider using a few coathangers to keep your baskets off the floor, as this will give you easy access to them and add an element of decoration.

Clothing Rack

Keeping with the idea of multipurpose furniture, using a clothing rack as intended is fine, but when you use it to help divide up your room or create a makeshift wardrobe area, you get even more out of this humble piece.

This can be particularly useful in a studio apartment, where it is nice to separate your bed and couch without being too massive to obstruct vision or block sunlight. If you use a clothing rack, we recommend that you consider what clothes you hang on it, as exposure to sunlight daily can fade certain fabrics. And if you have the time and patience, color-coordinating can also be a great touch that showcases your style and personality.

Fold-Down Furniture

Our last tip concerns the different types of furniture that you can fold up when not in use. Whether you need more space in your bedroom and opt for a Murphy bed or choose a folding table in the kitchen for a convenient place to enjoy your breakfast, these types of furniture are often custom-made to optimize your space the best.


At HandyForce, we are always thinking of more creative solutions to help our customers maximize their space. We have years of experience with smaller spaces, and our dedicated professionals can not only help you build custom solutions but also give you even more tips and inspiration. So contact us today for a consultation!

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Handyman for Your Home Projects

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When deciding between hiring a professional handyman or doing the project yourself, a few different factors come into play. No two renovations are the same, and while some people might want to spend as little as possible, others recognize the value professionals bring.

So, if you are unsure which option to choose, we have created this guide highlighting some of the many benefits of hiring a professional company to help you decide without issue. Enjoy!

Expertise

One primary benefit is the expertise professionals have worked hard to obtain over many years. This expertise will not only result in a high-quality result, but it can also be beneficial when it comes to advising you on the best course of action, providing you with inspiration, and helping you avoid poor decisions.

Time-saving

When you hire a contractor, you will typically get the renovations done much faster than if you were to do them yourself. This can be especially important when renovating the kitchen or bathroom, as these areas can be annoying to live without for an extended period of time. An added benefit is that you can also freely spend your own time on either projects or whatever else you want.

Access to Tools and Equipment

When using professional handymen, you also avoid renting or buying tools and equipment, which can often be a significant investment. For large-scale renovations, this amount can be a substantial portion of the overall cost, especially considering the limited use of the tools and equipment once you are done with the renovation.

Convenience

One should also consider the convenience that hiring professionals bring to the table. After all, not only will you be spared the physical labor involved, but you can also avoid spending long nights researching material costs and planning every minute detail of your renovation. Leaving this to experienced companies will typically end up being less stressful for the homeowner.

Warranties and Guarantees

Hiring professional handymen to renovate your property will also provide safety of mind in other aspects, such as warranties if things go wrong or guarantee that all safety regulations are being followed. This makes it easier to sell your home at a later date, and it will leave you insured if the renovation proves faulty at any point.

Improved Property Value

A properly executed renovation will often lead to an overall increase in the property value. If you are consulting a professional company, they can often help you figure out which improvements will lead to the biggest return on your investment, helping you decide which areas of your renovation to focus on.

Cost-effectiveness

All of the above reasons combine to provide a cost-effective service that mitigates the risk of expensive mistakes, saves you precious time, and also offers you access to discounted materials through their suppliers and connections.

The quality workmanship and high-quality finished projects will typically also increase the value of your home by a greater percentage than projects performed by the homeowners themselves, and there will be no issues with compliance or local regulations either.

If you are interested in hiring a professional handyman for your next renovation project in Toronto, consider contacting us today. We have years of experience and provide a wide range of services to help you reach your goal effectively.

#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

Kitchen Renovation Dos and Don’ts: Expert Advice

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When renovating your kitchen to achieve the look you have always dreamed of, there are many things to consider to ensure the final result is perfect. From choosing the correct fittings to ensuring that the kitchen cabinets match the hardware you choose, many decisions will need to be made.

At the same time, there are also many potential pitfalls, as we can often become blindsided by unexpected costs or structural issues that suddenly emerge once we start removing parts of the old kitchen. So today, we will examine the most important things to consider when renovating. Enjoy!

Do Plan Ahead

It is easy to be tempted to purchase that kitchen sink you have fallen in love with, but we highly recommend that you hold off on purchasing any expensive items until you have completed a budget for all the expenses, from materials to potential contractors.

Not everyone loves planning, but it can be the most important factor when it comes to getting your dream kitchen. It can help ensure that you pick and choose the right elements that not only go well together but also fit your budget and space requirements.

After all, what good is that kitchen sink if you can not find a kitchen counter that matches it properly? Or what if you suddenly run out of money halfway through and are left for months with a messy kitchen that only partly works until you save enough money for the plumber to connect everything?

If you need help planning your kitchen layout, picking the right elements, or hiring professional contractors to install your fittings, consider contacting us at The HandyForce. We are always available for a consultation to discuss your options.

Do Not Ignore Quality Products

While not everyone will be buying the most expensive products for their kitchen, there is something to be said when choosing quality products compared to the cheapest versions.

Most of us use our kitchen multiple times every single day, and as such, it is important that every functional element can withstand wear and tear, and will stay in working order for years to come.

Quality products often have a longer lifespan and a better feel, but sometimes, you can make do with the cheaper versions as well. So do your research to find out where you can save some money and where to spend a little more.

Do Not Forget Lighting

It is fun to pick out the kitchen cabinets and appliances, but we often forget about lighting fixtures. This is a big mistake, as a kitchen that is not well lit will feel depressing, and in some cases, it might even lead to an unfortunate accident.

We recommend that you set aside some money in your planning stage for lighting fixtures, and spend some time considering your options. If you have plenty of natural lighting coming in your kitchen you can do without as many lights, but in other cases you might need to ensure the entire kitchen can be fully lit.

Do Focus On Storage

What good is a kitchen if it can not comfortably hold all your utensils, pots and pans, and other bits and pieces you have collected over the years? Consider the amount of storage in your current kitchen and any items you might be storing elsewhere in your home that would fit better in the kitchen cabinets.

A good rule of thumb is that you should have at least one or two cabinets available for any future purchases or gifts coming your way. This way, you can avoid throwing out that one piece you use on rare occasions to make room for something else.

How to Choose the Right Paint Color for Your Home: Tips from the Pros

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Whether you wish to paint your home on the interior or exterior, the decision of which color to pick can be difficult to make. After all, this is typically a color you will need to live with for an extended period of time and something you will be looking at on a daily basis. So it is important to get it right.

The color of your home can also directly impact potential buyers’ interest in it and will be an important factor in the overall aesthetic and mood that it provides. So here are some tips for choosing the right color paint for your home. Enjoy!

Seek Inspiration

Our first tip is to look around the neighborhood to see what other people are doing. Someone else will have already spent time and effort considering the environment and type of houses where you live, and with today’s technology, you can snap a photo with your phone to save any color scheme you like on your way to or from work, for instance.

If you do not find any specific colors you like on existing homes or are looking for interior colors, your next best option is to visit your local hardware store. They will typically have a wide range of physical color samples that you can bring back home for a small fee (sometimes even for free), which you can then consider.

If you do use color samples, you should be careful that painting a full home can appear more sharp and intense than what you see on the small sample. Another idea is to seek professional input from experienced decorators or contractors.

At The HandyForce, we have many years of experience painting homes and selecting colors that match homeowners’ personalities and neighborhoods. If you would like help with manual labor or prefer a consultation with our professionals, please contact us today.

Consider the Mood and Ambiance

Think about the mood and ambiance you wish to achieve. You might prefer more neutral colors for the interior walls that create a fresh and airy sensation. Or you could opt for darker tones that will help you settle into your favorite reading chair once you dim the lights in the evening.

As for the exterior paint, it can often help to consider the architectural style of your home as well as its size. Newer homes tend to have clean lines and an understated look without too many details. By leaning into this, you can go for more neutral colors to keep this theme going.

On the other hand, older homes tend to have ornamental features and other details that can be painted in separate colors. They also typically feature more earthy tones or pastels, which work particularly well with wooden exteriors.

Do Not Overcommit

Once you have decided on a particular color of paint, you can buy as much as you need. However, you can also buy a small container that will let you paint a single wall, or even just a portion of it, to fully experience the color before you commit.

If you are choosing between a few colors that all have potential, you could even paint the colors on a piece of cardboard or chipboard to move around and see how the color reacts to shade, sunlight, and other factors that might help you make your final decision.

No matter what you choose, remember that your own instincts are the ones that matter most. Paint is not the most difficult thing to change down the line, so you can experiment and have fun with your colors without too much worry.

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.

Safety First: Essential Tips for Home Renovation Projects

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Renovating your home comes with many challenges, from finding the right projects that will give the best results to sourcing the materials you need and performing the required tasks. However, there is also the question of safety involved, especially with larger renovations.

To keep you safe and your project running on time, you should do what you can in order to avoid a trip to the emergency room. So, in this article, we will provide you with a quick and easy overview of the most important things to keep in mind as you renovate your home. Enjoy!

Planning Ahead

Before starting your project, having a good plan about the project’s overall scope is crucial. Not only does it help your wallet in terms of budgeting better, but it also should give you an idea of what tools you will be using and allow you to take the correct precautions and measures before it is too late.

Depending on your renovation project, you might need to comply with local regulations or seek permits, which typically indicates that the task at hand requires more care than usual. Planning will thus help you identify potential hazards and mitigate the risks involved.

Wear Protective gear

It should go without saying, but one important part of personal safety is using adequate protective gear. In 2020, more than 40% of the emergency room visits from people doing DIY projects were due to lacerations.

Therefore, you should always ensure you have the appropriate protective gear before starting any task, especially those involving sharp objects or hazardous materials. This could include wearing gloves to protect from cuts or burns and safety goggles when you expect flying debris or particles.

Electrical Safety

Always ensure that your electrical systems are turned off before unscrewing wire connections, replacing electrical components, or otherwise working on electrical circuits. Use the proper tools and follow all the guidelines and codes to stay safe and compliant.

While it is possible to renovate your electrical system on your own, many people find working with electrical components or wiring daunting. If you are unsure how to proceed, it is best to contact a professional to get the job done safely and correctly. Not only will you avoid immediate danger, but you can also spend your time renovating other parts of your home instead. If you need help, feel free to contact us at The HandyForce today.

Tool Safety

Another tip we highly recommend is keeping your tools safely stored when not in use. This includes sheathing sharp tools to avoid getting cut and unplugging power tools when you are done using them. Staying organized goes hand in hand with proper tool safety, saving you the trouble of spending hours looking for that one tool you need and keeping you safe at the same time.

If you are transporting heavy tools, make sure that their containers or carrying cases are closed properly so you do not drop them on your feet or cause damage. Also, inspect your tools on a regular basis to ensure they are in good working condition and unlikely to break while you are working with them.

#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.