Home Maintenance

Home Maintenance

American Thanksgiving is this Thursday, and you know what that means... Black Friday, Small Shop Saturday, and Cyber Monday. There are likely more deal days within there, but the bottom line is this: if you're looking for a great deal, now is the time to shop!

While most people go into the Black Friday season with aspirations of checking off every name on their Christmas list, keep in mind that this is also an excellent time to shop for your home! Whether you are seeking professional services like roofing, or new furniture for your living room, deals are to be had. 

Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Appliance Deals: If you have been waiting to replace big appliances in your home such as the laundry, dishwasher, fridge, coffee…

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Navigating the Canadian real estate market involves more than just finding the perfect property. You also need to understand the financial responsibilities tied to property ownership, such as property taxes. As a homeowner in Canada, comprehending the intricacies of property taxes is crucial. Here are some notes to get you started:

  1. Property Assessment: Property taxes in Canada are based on the assessed value of your property. Municipalities assess properties periodically to determine their market value. The assessment is a key factor in calculating property taxes.
  2. Municipal Jurisdiction: Property taxes are administered by local municipalities, which use the revenue to fund services such as schools, roads, garbage collection, and public…

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As winter approaches in Calgary, it's important to prepare your home to withstand the cold, snow, and icy conditions. Winter in Alberta can be harsh, and neglecting necessary maintenance could lead to costly repairs and discomfort. By taking on a few home improvement projects now, you can ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout the colder months. Here are key home improvement projects to tackle before winter in Calgary:

  1. Inspect and service your furnace: Your furnace will be working overtime during Calgary’s long winter months, so it’s essential to make sure it’s in good condition. Scheduling a furnace inspection and tune-up in the fall can help you avoid a breakdown when the temperature drops. Change the filters, check…

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It is the season for organizing! If you have never tackled your pantry space, today is the day. Brace yourself. It is going to be a wild but rewarding ride. Here are some tips to help you:

  • PURGE: "Empty your entire pantry, and thoroughly clean it before you begin the organization process. Check expiration dates, and toss anything that's past its prime or no longer in use. This will free up space in your pantry and help things stay organized longer" (HGTV). Remember: if you have not eaten something yet that has been there for a long time, you probably never will. Get rid of it and any guilt you may feel about it. 
  • SUPPLY: "We strongly believe that the dollar store should be your first stop once you decide to take pantry organization into your…

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Fall is right around the corner! The trees are beginning to turn golden, the air cooling at night. Stores have already begun to put out fall decor, and back to school is right around the corner. As we transition seasons, its important to make sure our homes are just as prepared as we are.

Here are some fall home care items to tackle before summer slips away:

  • Check Your Detectors: "With furnaces turned on, the windows closed and portable heaters humming along, fall is a great time to make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working. Check batteries and expiration dates – smoke detectors are typically good for 10 years, and CO detectors last for about six years" (Family Handyman).
  • Clean Your Gutters: "Your roof's drainage system annually…

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As summer rolls in with its warm and sunny days, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home is in top shape. Regular maintenance not only keeps your home looking its best but also helps prevent costly repairs down the road. Here are some summer maintenance items for homeowners to attend to in order to keep your property in excellent condition:

  • Give your lawn some TLC! "Mow the lawn regularly to keep it healthy and looking its best. Trim bushes and trees away from the house to prevent damage. Add a layer of mulch to garden beds keeps weeds down and helps the soil retain its moisture.  Water plants and flowers regularly, especially during hot weather" (Rumi).
  • Get your temperature in check! "If you haven’t yet made the switch to a smart…

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We are in the thick of summer when the air is humid and the temperatures are scorching. You know what that means: it's storm season. Storms are beautiful testaments to the power of Mother Nature, but can wreck havoc on your home. Here are some tips for keeping yourself and your home safe during stormy weather:

  • Have a plan! "Having a storm readiness plan in place saves valuable time if severe weather strikes. Take the opportunity now to choose the best shelter in your home, and make sure your family knows where it is. [Also] choose a meeting place to gather after the storm to ensure that everyone is safe and accounted for" (The Government of Canada).
  • Have supplies ready! "Maintain an emergency pack with a battery-powered flashlight, a radio…

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Calgary, it is HOT outside! As summer temperatures continue to soar, keeping your home cool without breaking the bank on energy bills becomes a top priority. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to maintain a comfortable temperature inside while minimizing energy consumption. Here are some 'cool' tips:

  1. Make the most out of your ceiling fan: Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to enhance your home’s cooling. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer, which creates a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler. This allows you to raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
  2. Block out the sun: Solar heat gain through windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures. Use blinds, curtains, or…

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As the temperatures rise, keeping your home cool without skyrocketing energy bills becomes a priority. Especially with prices so high on utilities in Canada. Fortunately, there are several energy-saving strategies you can implement to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while also reducing your carbon footprint. It's a win-win! Here are some tips:

  • Close the curtains! Direct sunlight can significantly increase indoor temperatures. Close blinds, curtains, or shades during the hottest parts of the day to block out heat. Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window films for even greater insulation.
  • Use appliances sparingly! Appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and dryers generate a lot of heat. Try to use these appliances during…

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After a long winter in Calgary, Alberta, there's nothing quite like the sight of new growth and the promise of a vibrant garden. To make the most of the upcoming spring season, it's important to prepare your garden properly. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips from gardening experts will help you get your garden ready for spring:

  1. Be sure it is the right time to get started: "Research should be the first task on your list. Before you start digging in your garden, make sure that it's the appropriate time to do so based on your agricultural zone... If the ground is still frozen and there's still a threat of frost, you'll mostly be wasting your time" (Martha Stewart).
  2. Clear away the old to make way for the new:…

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