Category: Home reno

Comparing Replacement and New-Construction Windows in Markham: What’s the Same and What’s Different

Suzette

Should you buy replacement or new construction windows? Keep reading to find out!

When shopping for windows in Markham for your home, you’ll encounter two main ideas: replacement windows and new-construction windows. Are you wondering what you should choose? Let’s explore where replacement windows and new-construction windows are best utilized.

Deciding Between Replacement and New-Construction Windows

Both replacement and new-construction Markham windows ultimately provide homeowners with the same outcome post-installation: a weatherproof, functional window unit, whether it operates or remains fixed.

The use of new-construction and replacement windows is distinct and specific to the situation. New-construction windows are suitable for projects where a wall is being significantly renovated with stud access or when constructing a new wall. On the other hand, replacement windows are ideal for scenarios where the wall structure remains unchanged and only the existing window requires replacing.

Window Categories

New-Construction Windows:

Designed for new spaces, new-construction windows are typically installed in openings that are free of trim or siding. These windows come equipped with nailing fins or attachment flanges on their exterior, facilitating secure installation. Some models feature removable nailing flanges for added versatility.

Replacement Windows:

As the name suggests, replacement windows are intended to replace existing windows, whether they are original new-construction windows or previous replacements. These windows lack nailing fins or flanges, featuring a smooth side to streamline the installation process.

Availability Insights

New-Construction Windows:

Widely available at most home improvement stores, new-construction windows are readily accessible, though the variety in sizes may be somewhat limited.

Replacement Windows:

Obtaining replacement windows can be a challenge for DIY enthusiasts, with online sources being the primary option. Despite the availability, the process of ordering and installing replacement windows is rarely undertaken as a DIY task.

Application Guidelines

New-Construction Windows:

Ideal for erecting new buildings, undertaking substantial renovations, or fixing severely damaged existing frameworks.

Replacement Windows: Opt for replacement windows when updating an existing window without the need to alter the surrounding structure, provided it remains in satisfactory condition.

Interchangeability

New-Construction Windows:

The scenario in which you might need new-construction windows for a replacement context arises only if the wall and its framework are in poor condition. Such situations require significant reconstruction of the wall.

Performance Attributes

Replacement Windows:

It is uncommon to use replacement windows for new constructions. New-construction windows are specifically designed for integration into new wall systems, making them the preferred choice.

Performance Attributes

New-Construction Windows:

Properly installed new-construction windows offer robust weather protection. The insulated glass window unit (IGU) in these windows matches that of replacement windows in terms of insulation.

Replacement Windows: Similarly, replacement windows ensure a weather-tight seal. However, the lack of nailing fins is considered a drawback in terms of installation ease and stability.

DIY Suitability

New-Construction Windows:

Installing new-construction windows is relatively straightforward, although the associated exterior work can be challenging. Their availability in home improvement stores makes them a popular choice for DIY projects in sheds, auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs), or as part of new constructions within the main living area.

Replacement Windows:

The installation of replacement windows poses a greater challenge for DIY enthusiasts, owing to the need for precise measurements and fit.

Optimal Scenarios for New-Construction Windows

Primarily, opt for new-construction windows during the initial building phase or when extensive renovations are underway. New-construction windows are best suited for:

  • Constructing a new home
  • Building an addition
  • Creating an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or separate structure
  • Repairing a wall with significant damage
  • Undertaking a major wall reconstruction for any purpose

Constructing a New Home

For new home construction, new-construction windows are essential, as this scenario does not involve replacing existing windows. New-construction windows are standard for all new homes, offering the necessary stability and insulation from the start.

Adding to Your Home

An addition functions similarly to a new home on a smaller scale, typically requiring new-construction windows. The exception might be when part of an existing wall is integrated into the addition, potentially adjusting the window choice.

Repairing or Replacing a Severely Damaged Window

In cases where a window and its surrounding structure are extensively damaged—possibly due to termites, rot, or other issues—the entire area, including framing, siding, and interior components, might need reconstruction. In such instances, despite the additional carpentry work involved, opting for a new-construction window is often as economical and straightforward as installing a replacement window, but with the added benefits of improved insulation and a more secure, weather-tight seal thanks to the nailing fins.

Ideal Situations for Replacement Windows

Replacement windows are the go-to choice when you’re dealing with an existing structure where the walls need to remain largely undisturbed, aside from the window swap itself. This includes removing the old window and perhaps updating the interior and exterior trim. Replacement windows are most suitable for:

  • Directly swapping an old window for a new one
  • Utilizing new-construction windows that have removable nailing fins
  • Keeping the existing wall structure intact

Replacing an Existing Window

Choosing to install a replacement window in a structurally sound wall minimizes the risk of unnecessary damage and additional work compared to installing a new-construction window. The interconnected nature of windows, walls, trim, and siding means changing one component can affect the others.

The advantage of replacement windows lies in their design, which allows for horizontal installation with minimal disruption to surrounding elements. Although installing replacement windows might necessitate temporary adjustments like removing interior trim, this can often be done in a way that allows for the trim to be reinstalled or replaced with similar ease. Some touch-up painting might be needed once the trim is back in place.

Adapting New-Construction Windows with Removable Fins

The difference between new-construction windows with nailing fins and replacement windows without them raises the question: Can you simply remove the fins from new-construction windows to mimic replacement windows? In certain situations, this is achievable.

Some new-construction windows are manufactured with fins that can be easily removed, enhancing their versatility for different installation scenarios.

However, it’s generally not recommended to remove the fins from windows that weren’t designed with detachable fins in mind. Attempting to do so could risk damaging the window’s integrity or even breaking the glass. Additionally, achieving a smooth finish on the window’s exterior to ensure a snug, weather-tight fit can be challenging.

How to Properly Prepare a Room for Painting

Suzette

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time painter, one thing remains true: proper preparation is the key to a flawless painting project!

Taking the time to prep your room may seem tedious, but it is just as crucial to the result as the actual painting. In this blog post provided by expert painters and decorators working with Fantastic Services, we’ll guide you through the crucial steps and expert tips on how to achieve a smooth and professional finish that will leave you with a masterpiece on your walls.

Protection and Painting Tools You’ll Need

What painting tools do you need to prepare the area? It is quite simple actually, and you may even have most of those in your home already!

  • Soap – Dirt, grime, and oil can prevent paint from adhering properly to any surface. Make sure to thoroughly clean the area with soap to remove all contaminants before you commence.
  • Sponge, gloves, and a bucket – This one is self-explanatory. A skilled handyman always wears gloves to protect his hands, and so should you. Get yourself a bucket to mix in the soap with water and, of course, a sponge to better prepare the surface.
  • Protective sheets – You can use protective sheets or drop cloths. Both will allow you to protect the floors, furniture, and other objects you can not remove before you begin.
  • Sandpaper – Uneven or damaged areas can cause the new paint to crack or peel. Use sandpaper to smooth rough surfaces, remove old paint or wallpaper, and create a nice, even surface for your DIY painting project.
  • Painter’s tape – You can mask off areas you do not want to paint or achieve certain forms. Make sure to properly stick it to the wall so that it stays put once you start the paint job.

Preparing a Room for DIY Painting

Now that you have your tools ready let’s look at what steps you need to take to ensure the best possible results.

Clear the Space

The most important piece of advice that any professional painter will offer you is to make sure you have adequate area in the room. Once you start painting, it will feel like everything gets in your way.

Remove the furniture pieces and wall decorations. If a particular furniture piece is too heavy or big to get out of the room, move it to its centre and cover it up with the protective sheets you got.

Inspect the Walls for Damage

After you’ve prepared your workspace, the following step is to check the area you’ll be painting over. Make sure you complete a thorough examination since this will have an impact on the final outcome of your project. If you spot any holes, cracks, or other damages, fill them in. Once done, use the sandpaper to even out the wall’s surface.

Clean the Walls

Now that you have fixed any minor or major damages you may have had, it is time to get the soap, sponge, and bucket! Mix in the soap with some warm water, put on your gloves, and go through the walls carefully, making sure you clean every inch of them. It is important to note that you should not be using sugar soap.

Protect the Floors and Other Areas

Use protective sheets or drop cloths to carefully cover the entire floor and any remaining items. Ensure you have covered everything, as you don’t want to move sheets around once you start.

Preparing Different Wall Surfaces for DIY Painting

If you have followed through up until now, that is great! You need to cover one final step before starting your project’s fun part! There are a few things to consider depending on the current state of the wall you want to paint.

Plaster Walls

What is important to know about plaster walls is that they have a high absorbance level. What does that mean? Simply put, the first coat of paint you place will get heavily, potentially unevenly, absorbed. This will not only impact the overall appearance of the output but will also significantly increase the expense of the entire procedure. When it comes to plaster walls, professional painters recommend using a primer before you begin the paint job. It will provide the smooth surface you need and protect your colours.

Gloss Wall Surface

We are not going to lie. This is probably the most challenging surface to paint. To get a gloss wall ready for painting, you need to ensure that the paint will actually adhere. To do that, you must thoroughly sand the wall, removing all the sheen/gloss. Once done, carefully clean the wall again using a warm damp cloth, and leave it to dry. Apply a primer once the surface has dried fully. Now your gloss wall surface is ready to be painted!

Wallpaper Walls

Have you decided to change the wallpapers and apply fresh new paint? If you previously opted for peelable wallpapers, you should pat yourself on the back. However, if you hang them with paste, it may be slightly trickier to get rid of them.

In such a situation, you should reach out for your tools for painting and get your stripping knife. It will be a lengthy procedure, but be certain that the wallpaper is thoroughly removed from the wall. Of course, be careful not to damage the plaster underneath. If scraps of wallpaper do not wish to come off, try soaking them with a sponge and hot water. That should soften it and make it easier to strip.

Brick Walls

Brick walls allow you to be more creative with the paint. You can use both interior, as well as exterior shades to achieve the desired result. Similar to plastered walls, you should expect the first coat to be primarily absorbed. You should apply a mist coat. To prepare a mist coat, you should take some water and mix it with the paint. It should be a seven-to-three ratio, with 70% water and 30% paint. Apply the coat, let it dry and go wild the paint afterwards.

Consider Hiring Professional Painters

If this is your first DIY project, then perhaps it is a good idea to reach out to some professional painters and companies. Even if you know all the tips and tricks, painting is challenging, especially if you plan to renovate more than one wall. Not only will the handyman company send out people who will get the job done quickly and efficiently, but you will also be able to “steal” some painting techniques from them, which you can further apply when you are ready to paint by yourself.

Conclusion

Regardless of what paint job you plan on doing, always remember that preparation is vital. The better and more detailed the prep job, the easier the rest will be. Ensure that your walls are thoroughly cleaned. Fix any damage and apply the necessary undercoat. Place enough protective sheets to protect everything in the area, and you are good to go!

Everything About Glass Extensions

Suzette

Expand your living area with a glass extension to your home!

Photos By: Unsplash

The popularity of various types of glazed structures is constantly increasing. If this way of making your dwelling exterior more attractive, your home upgraded, and modern seems appealing to you, take some time to find out more about the architect solution.

What is the purpose of glass extensions?

As we may guess after having the first glimpse at the visual features of the designer solution, such a type of structure is created for the purpose of creating additional space where it’s necessary or desired. With the help of this service, everyone may display, for example, a lounge zone anywhere in the private yard next to the dwelling itself.

It’s worth mentioning that such additions aren’t created for giving more space only. These are multifunctional solutions so we should specify here one more purpose for incorporating them. So add-ons are also used to provide more natural light to the building. It is especially relevant for structures of bigger dimensions.

Last but not least, a glass house extension is an extremely stylish way to open the layout of one’s dwelling. There is a common misconception that such elements match only to buildings with modern interiors. But in fact, if integrated in the right way, such boxes may perfectly accompany houses with rather traditional designs.

Talking about present-day trends, glass extensions are frequently used to add additional space to kitchens or dining rooms. Just imagine having a romantic dinner and enjoying stars sparkling in the dark sky! Seems pretty unusual, doesn’t it?

Best design ideas

Build a patio within a glazed box

Box add-ons might be designed in a form of a patio. The common idea suits those owners who have the garden just next to the building. In order to create such a patio, you need to have the glass box extension built only from glass completely from scratch. You may arrange the area the way you like because it would be the best place in your house to have a whale of a time with your nearest and dearest.

Glassify available space

It’s not always necessary to create new space if you want to accompany the exterior of the house with glazed additions. One of the options is to simply square off or glassify the space you already have. It might appear to be the best solution for a terrace.

Add multi-storey extension

Multi-storey addition design looks ultra-impressive. Today it’s possible to build structures of the cubic form which have even a few stories. Such an idea maximizes living space to the highest necessary extent. It is what can create a true sense of openness when you live in a glazed box where there’s always bright natural light.

Open up a corner with glass

This is a small addition that is why the option is the most budget-friendly one among the above-mentioned variants. But this never makes it less impressive. Just remember to use the best material to let the brightest light in.

The best place to order glass extensions installation

When you search for the variants available by the inquire “home extensions London” in your searching browser, you come across many companies that guarantee the highest quality and the lowest prices. In point of fact, the truth is different. Nevertheless, there is a good option to consider – glassstructureslimited.com. This company is proud of its structures and they have strong reasons to take pride in. Consider the following advantages:

  • Reasonable glass extensions cost
  • High quality of structures that completely correspond to the prices
  • Savvy workers who have many years of experience in builders extensions
  • Quality materials
  • An innovative approach to installations
  • Personal requirements of clients always come first
  • Bespoke structure

Fixing Your Home’s Roof? Here’s Why You Should Hire a Roofing Contractor

Suzette

If you are looking for a good roofing contractor then you are at the right place. We are here to provide you with information about the few best roofing contractors available in the market as well as how you can connect with them!


If you are looking for a good roofing contractor then you are at the right place. We are here to provide you with information about the few best roofing contractors available in the market as well as how you can connect with them.

As soon as summer hits, one of the major worries is to ensure you have good roofing to tackle the monsoon rainfall. Any gaps in the ceiling will result in amassing the moisture on the roof leading to roof weakening or damage. So, if you have been a victim of roof damage and living under a damaged roof. GET IT REPAIRED! Yes, you heard it right get it repaired as soon as possible. It is not safe for you and your loved ones to live under a damaged roof. Stop stop! Do not go anywhere to look out for contractors we are here to help you out. If you a looking out for pocket-friendly yet quality work, Kitchener Roofing Contractor is one of the best options available in the market.

One of the major issues while thinking about roofing is finances. You might not be financially ready for repairing the damage rainfall or time has caused to the roof. Kitchener Roofing Contractor provides you with the best services without putting big damage to your pocket. There is no down payment and no interest in the service. Well economically affordable does not mean low quality, they provide with lifetime shingle warranty. It does not end here you can choose from an abundant range of colours for your roof as per the image of your dream house you have in your mind. You can also get a free-in-estimate by reaching out to them through email before visiting them and can get a consultation on call as well.

If you are a person who is not satisfied with everyone’s work then Oakville Roofing Contractor is the right option for you. It is another name working in the roofing market. You can avail of their quality services at a minimal price. There is no down payment, once your 100% work is done and you are satisfied with it then pay the money. This is a small company based in Oakville that is run by a family. The company offers three packages to cater for your needs. All packages offer a best-in-class CertainTeed asphalt shingle for your rood. The packages differ in terms of shield and warranty. One package is called Shield package (good package) offering you a shield against 3 feet of ice and water. It has a transferrable warranty. The other two package offers fully CertainTeed Synthetic Membrane, shield against 6 feet ice and water and a Sure Start Plus 4-Star Warranty. The only difference is that the best one provides you with a storm breaker wind warranty.

Taking some time, out for searching for a good roofing contractor, as per your need, will not only save your money but will also be stress-free. Therefore, take out paper and pen, analyse your roof and list down your needs. Grab your laptop and phone, and start contacting the best options available in town.

COSTERION – Support for Builders and Developers

Suzette

If you plan to build your home or start a new investment, remember that it is an opportunity to customize and create a space however you see fit!

COSTERION.com offers designs of unique and modern houses. If you are a company that needs assistance in the process of construction and brand building, Costerion offers many services to cater to your needs. Keep reading to find out more!

Planning to build a house, make it your home and take advantage of the opportunity to  customize a space that is ideally suited to everyone’s needs. After all, NEW HOME is the place to bond with those you love and entertain new friends. The house you build should be a perfect  match to the land you decide to live on. Additionally, a designed home needs to be environmentally friendly so that it meets the latest standards. Although it will cost more to implement these environmental systems at first, you will save on maintenance fees down the road.

Ready Made or Original Design 

When you commit to building a home, you will have a lot of choices, and one of the  most important selections will be to choose between a Prefabricated home or a custom  home that is special and unique to you. For each choice, you get to check out designs,  photos of the construction process, and the final product. Get some expert opinions from people who have purchased a new home, both from original designs and pre designed homes. Check discussion boards and forums for advice, tips, and  information that can help you decide on the type of home to buy. Some advantages of a predesigned home are shorter investment times, a sense of security knowing that these  homes have been tested and optimized for lower costs during construction, and that these designs have been looked over many times. Pre Designed homes have many advantages, however choosing the Original Design option has its own attractive aspects such as being able to customize your home to your needs. Before you make the choice between the two, take advantage of the project consultancy services to determine which solutions are most optimal for you.

If you are looking for an Original design, we can help! We can research and gather  the specific requirements in terms of space, planning, and the appearance of the  house tailored to your specifications. Your original design may require a plot of  land with an unusual shape or size and we are happy to accommodate you in this  venture. You will need an architect who understands your needs and listens to  every creative detail in order to develop your dream house. While an original design  can cost more than a prebuilt design, your house will be original and a space you  can really relax and entertain in, and best of all – call home.

Another more advanced solution to your new home is the adapted project.

“When there are many possibilities like partitioning walls, doors, and window locations along with smaller elements, customers have the option of deciding to introduce these small changes” – says Marcin Kostka, owner of the Costerion company.

Just because you choose the predesigned option, it does not mean that you can’t change it! When selecting a premade project, always ask questions as to what extent the project can be modified. A great architect will always have the answers. To see exceptional example of both methods, you can go https://costerion.com/plans where you can purchase a plan of your future house.

Understanding Your Own Unique Needs 

The first step in designing a home is to create a checklist of ideas and decide on  what you want most. This applies to making modifications to a premade design and  to a custom home. If you are working with an architect, do not be afraid to  communicate your ideas so that you can talk about it with him and get feedback.  The size of the home can vary depending on how many people you plan to live in it  with. You don’t want to spend money on space that you don’t need. As for the  space you want, that is up to you! If you like working from home, then you can add  an executive study room to cut business expenses while creating a quiet space.  Plan on having friends and family over for long luxurious weekends? Consider  adding guest rooms to accommodate them comfortably. Utility rooms like the  laundry, pantry, and basements or sunrooms for extra entertaining space are also  necessities to consider. Remember to add a recreation room to explore your  creative pursuits. You ultimately want and need an original design that will allow for  unlimited possibilities. If you want a more simplistic approach, then a premade  design just might be the answer for you. Check out www.costerion.com/3d for more information.

Planning Your Space 

When planning your space, there are some basic principles to consider. The living  room and dining room should ideally be looked towards the south and southwest side to get a lot of natural light from the sun. When you eat your meals or spend time with friends and family it is always nice to do it in the warmth of the sun. To make sure you take advantage of the sun you would also want bigger windows, a staple of modern design, along these rooms. Another way to use the sun is to align  your solar panels towards the sun to get as much solar energy as possible. This will  save you money and help the environment.

Other factors to consider would be to divide your house into smaller zones. The day  zone consists of room like the living room, dining room, kitchen, office, guest  rooms, and bathrooms. It would be best to choose to have these rooms have  access to natural lighting. The other zone is the night zone which consists of master  bedrooms, adjoining baths, walk-in closets, kids’ room, and play areas. These rooms  do not need as much sunlight, but they need more privacy, away from activity of  potential guests. Finally, there is the communication zone that consists of rooms  that everyone in the household can be in to feel connected to each other while  enjoying the space.

We can tell you all about how to properly organize spaces, but it’s hard to visualize  how these spaces look like in the proper place. Words can only do so much to show  you the potential of your future house. To help you visualize your future house,  Costerion offers services like virtual walk throughs of the house to let you have a  visual experience with the future space. If the planning becomes too complicated,  then we can guide you through the process. For more information you can check  out https://costerion.com/3d. As a company or as an individual, Costerion is able to supply the technology and supplies to bring the building from thought to reality.

Getting the Right Materials 

One of the most crucial aspects of building a home is to use the right materials. You  want a house to last for decades, to be sturdy, and of well-built construction.  Whether or not you are looking to build a home or a company trying to get  materials for a house, it is always important to have access to the materials you  need right away. Think about the various possibilities available when choosing  construction technology. You have choices between ceramics, concrete, wood  (including wooden beams to accentuate the home), or the most expensive  materials, or use a majority of prefabricated elements which can save you money and time. The right building materials are also key to achieving optimal energy  efficiency.

An environmentally efficient home will save you money time and time again. A well  built, environmentally friendly home requires less energy to heat and cool resulting  in affordable energy bills and fewer headaches. Insulation materials can range from  mineral wool, foamed polystyrene, or polyurethane foam. The amount of material  used and the selection of the most effective in a given category is important.

All of this leads to the question of where do you find these materials? This can be a  very stressful part of the process and it can seem overly complicated, however if  you go to https://costerion.com/supplies you can buy/find building materials  dedicated to your projects all in one place.

From planning, to designing, and to construction, the whole process can seem very  convoluted with all of the different people that need to be involved. However, with  our partnership with other companies, we can make this  process very seamless and efficient for you. If you are a company looking to have a  lot of these steps done efficiently, or an individual trying to build their dream home,  then Costerion is for you.

Smart Home Technology 

Lighting adds a special touch and a sense of warmth to any home. Effectively,  illuminated elements of the house bring out the beauty and charm of the  architecture, creating an atmosphere to be desired. Lighting adds a special  ambiance in a garden, allowing you to admire and enjoy the landscaping in the  evening. It also has a special significance in keeping your home safe with lighted  driveways and garages.

When designed a modern house, there are options to add smart home elements  (IBMS or IIBMS). Modern building management systems can help to optimize  energy consumption in the home by controlling the central heating system, air  conditioning, heating elements in the floors, sprinklers, blinds, and even lighting  and alarm systems. These amazing technological wonders can allow you to manage  your home remotely to give a sense of added security and a feeling that you are  home – even when you’re away. There are very simple changes that can be done  that makes the old ways seem primitive. Examples of said changes can be smart  lighting and automation that will help with the way of living. As you enter the house,  the lights can turn on automatically or when you leave a room, the lights turn off  which can also help you save energy and money.

Building Supplies 

Aside from the materials used to construct the building, there are other aspects of the  building that are needed to give it that aesthetic finish and completion. These can be  windows, doors, and garage doors. Windows and doors are things you always go and look  in and out of, so when you go in and out you want to see beauty. With Costerion, you will  be able to handpick whatever kind of window or door you would like to add to your house.  To help you with that we also offer all of these essentials in the three-dimensional space.  We can, as said before, create rendering, visualizations, plans, and virtual tours to make  sure that your house is exactly how you want it to look.

Brand and Marketing 

If you are a company looking to build a house to sell, marketing is always important.  Costerion cooperates with a professional marketing agency that can build your company  with a marketing strategy plan from the logo to the website with online shops and social  media campaigns. If you want to check it out you can visit https://costerion.com/marketing