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Edmonton and Calgary 2023

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EDMONTON & CALGARY WINTER <strong>2023</strong><br />

Publisher: Ed Ammar<br />

High-Quality & Energy Efficient | Free Quotes & Finance Options! More Details on Pages 24-25<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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The<br />

Fireplace<br />

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@REALHOMEADVICE<br />

When requiring services, whether it be realtors, builders,<br />

contractors or more, we ask that you remember the businesses<br />

featured in this publication are the best in the industry.<br />

All rights reserved by Home Advice.<br />

Reproduction or transmission of all or any part of this publication<br />

by any means is strictly forbidden without the prior<br />

written consent of Real Home Advice. Although great detail<br />

<strong>and</strong> attention is taken to avoid any ad copy or editorial errors,<br />

any errors or omissions on the part of the publisher are<br />

limited <strong>and</strong> dealt with solely by printing a letter of retraction<br />

<strong>and</strong> / or correction in the following editions.<br />

OUR SERVICES:<br />

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Wood Fireplaces<br />

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DESIGNED AND PUBLISHED BY RHAMEDIA<br />

CONTACT:<br />

Phone: 1-780-406-6441<br />

Email: adcopy@realhomeadvice.ca<br />

Read Online:<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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REAL ESTATE AGENT<br />

Year-End Check-In - Thoughts On The<br />

Market<br />

As 2022 starts to draw to a close(already!), I thought it might be valuable for some of you if I shared my thoughts about where the <strong>Edmonton</strong><br />

market is sitting now <strong>and</strong> where it’s going.<br />

While it finally feels that we’re leaving the p<strong>and</strong>emic behind, there sure have been some bumps along the way! These last few years have been<br />

some of the strangest in my career, <strong>and</strong> that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. As of November, the market is in a very interesting<br />

phase. Even with inflation seeming stubborn <strong>and</strong> interest rates ticking higher, we will have dem<strong>and</strong> in our local market. Some forecasters, including<br />

BMO(Bank of Montreal), are predicting that the market is still undervalued by 5% or more, <strong>and</strong> that prices may actually rise in the near future<br />

even as overheated markets like Toronto or Vancouver continue to correct. You may see a big “thaw” in our local market come late winter/early<br />

spring!<br />

Reading something like the above, it’s only human nature to start thinking about timing the market. My advice- just don’t! If you have your<br />

ducks in a row <strong>and</strong> you feel it’s time to buy or sell your home, I always recommend that you do it. Waiting on the sidelines may or may not get you<br />

a better price in the end.<br />

In the long run, however, I haven’t met anyone who can predict the future. I don’t think that even the Bank of Canada could have predicted that<br />

in less than a year we would jump from historically low interest rates up to a normal level- with more hikes potentially on the way. When you are<br />

ready, it’s good to focus your energy <strong>and</strong> do everything possible to be successful. A lot of this comes down to working with a great Realtor.<br />

It’s easy to identify a great agent. First <strong>and</strong> foremost, look for someone that is going to be out for your interests 110% <strong>and</strong> with whom you have<br />

good rapport. You should feel that your Realtor listens <strong>and</strong> underst<strong>and</strong>s what you’re looking to do. A great Realtor will point you in the right<br />

direction- even if you don’t initially see it.<br />

If you’re interested in meeting with great Realtors; I’d love to put my experience to work for you.<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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CLICK TO SAVE:<br />

Home Influencers Share<br />

Design Tips for <strong>2023</strong><br />

As the adage goes, home is<br />

where the heart is, but thanks<br />

to thoughtful staging, curated<br />

accents <strong>and</strong> careful colour<br />

selection, a growing number<br />

of home interior influencers<br />

have amassed millions of<br />

hearts—not to mention likes,<br />

shares <strong>and</strong> saves—from<br />

audiences across social<br />

media seeking some style<br />

inspiration.<br />

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok <strong>and</strong> Pinterest have brought the latest<br />

design trends to the masses by allowing interior stylists <strong>and</strong> designers to<br />

connect one-on-one with homeowners <strong>and</strong> renters looking to transform<br />

their spaces. And while most people know that Instagram does not<br />

always equal reality, both the <strong>2023</strong> <strong>Calgary</strong> Renovation Show, running<br />

January 13-15 <strong>and</strong> the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Renovation Show, running January<br />

27-29, are gathering some of Alberta’s most-followed influencers, DIY<br />

experts <strong>and</strong> designers to bring their unique style <strong>and</strong> viral tips from the<br />

screen to real life as part of the Reel Rooms show feature.<br />

To help get you inspired, we’ve asked two Reel Rooms influencers to<br />

share some of their favourite trends <strong>and</strong> timeless design tips to create<br />

the home of your dreams.<br />

Bringing the Living Room to Life<br />

Relaxing, inviting <strong>and</strong> contemplative describes the living space created<br />

by <strong>Calgary</strong>-based interior designer Brittany McNab (@fifteentwelvehome).<br />

McNab, whose style trends toward a breathy mix of light neutrals,<br />

textures <strong>and</strong> natural materials, showcases a living room design perfectly<br />

referential to her commitment to sustainability. “Sustainable design<br />

heavily influenced my decisions in this space. I wanted a living room that<br />

felt tranquil, calm, personal <strong>and</strong> timeless,” says McNab.<br />

To create her design, McNab first focused on the bones of the room.<br />

“This living room style is quite transitional, so I recommend classic<br />

elements like white walls <strong>and</strong> wainscotting.” To add more texture<br />

<strong>and</strong> interest, McNab suggests introducing architectural elements like<br />

arches <strong>and</strong> millwork to bring the feeling of timeless craftsmanship to<br />

any home, no matter the age.<br />

Once you have your primary elements in place, layering in furniture<br />

<strong>and</strong> decor will help pull the design together. McNab recommends<br />

choosing a cohesive colour palette that reflects your style. “Aim for<br />

things that make your heart happy. Make an inspiration board of<br />

everything you love <strong>and</strong> get to work hunting things down.”<br />

A mix of natural textures like wool, jute <strong>and</strong> linen reflects the focus on<br />

sustainable <strong>and</strong> timeless design, while carefully chosen objects give<br />

the room its unique sensibility. “I prefer a pared-back, but eclectic look<br />

with my shelf <strong>and</strong> coffee table styling, <strong>and</strong> I change it as often as I feel<br />

like to keep things fresh <strong>and</strong> fun.”<br />

While it can be tempting to gravitate to br<strong>and</strong>-new pieces to help<br />

your home feel current, McNab suggests playing around with found<br />

items <strong>and</strong> vintage pieces to create a unique space while saving a few<br />

dollars. “I absolutely love second-h<strong>and</strong> finds,” says McNab. “I will often<br />

thrift things like frames, books <strong>and</strong> vases, shop Etsy for interesting<br />

artwork <strong>and</strong> collect little decor objects at places like Goodwill <strong>and</strong><br />

Homesense. Don’t be afraid to visit thrift shops <strong>and</strong> remember that<br />

things like frames <strong>and</strong> vases can always be painted.”<br />

The Bedroom Oasis<br />

If the kitchen is the heart of the home, the bedroom might very well<br />

be the soul. One of the Reel Rooms features this year is a relaxing<br />

primary bedroom designed by Ghalia Eltassi (@urban.homeology), a<br />

DIY <strong>and</strong> style influencer based in <strong>Edmonton</strong>. “My goal was to create<br />

a cozy <strong>and</strong> relaxing retreat where anyone can feel comfortable <strong>and</strong><br />

relaxed after a busy day,” says Eltassi.<br />

Her transitional design, which balances modern <strong>and</strong> traditional<br />

elements focuses on clean lines <strong>and</strong> gentle curves to create a<br />

space that feels entirely at home in <strong>2023</strong> <strong>and</strong> at the same time,<br />

undeniably timeless. “In this space, I focused on classic pieces like<br />

the platform bed <strong>and</strong> nightst<strong>and</strong>s to give the space a modern feel.<br />

The curved decor, including an arched mirror <strong>and</strong> light fixtures, brings<br />

a contemporary look to the whole space, while the neutral palette of<br />

cream, ivory <strong>and</strong> taupe brings it all together.<br />

To recreate this look, Eltassi encourages her audience to look for ways<br />

to elevate traditional items with modern accents <strong>and</strong> updates to create<br />

a space that looks curated <strong>and</strong> original. “Change your bedding, paint<br />

your walls a fresh colour or add some new knobs to your dresser to<br />

get a new look without having to buy all new items.” If you are even<br />

more ambitious, the DIY enthusiast suggests getting creative with your<br />

larger pieces. “If you don’t like the look of your furniture, give it a fresh<br />

coat of paint or s<strong>and</strong> it down <strong>and</strong> stain it to tie in with your new style.”<br />

What You’ll See in <strong>2023</strong><br />

While both our designers gravitate to timeless <strong>and</strong> sustainable design<br />

practices, they are no strangers to embracing change <strong>and</strong> playing<br />

with current trends. “For <strong>2023</strong>, my top trend is warm browns,” says<br />

McNab. “The light beige, tan <strong>and</strong> camel shades we were seeing a lot<br />

of have slowly morphed into moodier shades of brown/black, mocha,<br />

<strong>and</strong> chocolate. You can use these in wood elements like flooring <strong>and</strong><br />

cabinets or introduce them through accessories like throw pillows,<br />

vases <strong>and</strong> rugs.”<br />

As for Eltassi, she is looking forward to seeing more colour <strong>and</strong> drama<br />

this year. “Rich, saturated hues will be gaining popularity in <strong>2023</strong>.<br />

Deep reds, greens <strong>and</strong> darker shades of brown will be taking the<br />

spotlight this year.”<br />

To see these spaces IRL, don’t miss the <strong>2023</strong> <strong>Calgary</strong> Renovation<br />

Show at the BMO Centre, January 13-15 or the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Renovation<br />

Show at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Expo Centre January 27-29.<br />

Visit www.calgaryrenovationshow.com or<br />

www.edmontonrenovationshow.com for more information <strong>and</strong> to<br />

get your tickets.


Jan 27 - 29<br />

<strong>Edmonton</strong><br />

Expo Centre<br />

Your Project. Our Experts.<br />

Bring your ideas to life with trusted experts at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Renovation Show, January<br />

27 th - 29 th at the <strong>Edmonton</strong> Expo Centre. Discover the latest home renovation trends <strong>and</strong><br />

get practical advice from hundreds of experts. From kitchens <strong>and</strong> baths to flooring <strong>and</strong><br />

more, find great deals, new ideas <strong>and</strong> inspiration for all your home projects.<br />

Sponsors:<br />

.com<br />

EDMONTONRENOVATIONSHOW.COM<br />

Produced by<br />

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Promo Code: REALHOME<br />

Courtesy of:<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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Need more Home Advice? Check us out online!<br />

www.realhomeadvice.ca<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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What to Do When Payments Stop: 5 Urgent Steps<br />

Collecting debt has always been one of the most uncomfortable <strong>and</strong> delicate tasks in business.<br />

In a time of crisis, it becomes infinitely more challenging.<br />

Previously reliable customers no longer pay on time—if at all. Even the best ones have stopped taking your calls <strong>and</strong> their voicemail is<br />

uncharacteristically full.<br />

When they DO answer, it isn’t good. Apologies, but they can’t pay for an indeterminate period because of COVID-19.<br />

It’s not just you. Virtually all business models, both B2B <strong>and</strong> consumer-facing, healthcare providers <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong>lords, are in a similarly precarious<br />

situation.<br />

The customer in many cases has an impeccable history, making this an entirely new kind of problem. Good business is hard-won, cost of<br />

sales is premium <strong>and</strong> customer relationships are precious. Most importantly, your br<strong>and</strong> reputation is priceless.<br />

But here you are. Even the best customers are holding out, <strong>and</strong> you have growing obligations of your own.<br />

It’s painful <strong>and</strong> a source of tremendous stress.<br />

Here’s the kicker: the worst is yet to come.<br />

The forced shutdown has only just begun to take its toll on businesses<br />

<strong>and</strong> consumers. Many are sitting on a shrinking cash stockpile,<br />

waiting for a turnaround that isn’t coming soon enough. If they owe<br />

you money, they are spending it on other things—until it the last of it<br />

runs out.<br />

And despite the rosy flourishes being painted by some politicians, the<br />

crisis is worsening. The subsidies, stimulus packages <strong>and</strong> deferrals<br />

must soon end. Buying habits <strong>and</strong> patterns have been massively<br />

disrupted, in a lot of cases permanently.<br />

If your business is already struggling to collect money owed to it,<br />

it doesn’t take a master economist to envision what’s in store. And<br />

the real economists concur it will be very bad, for longer than many<br />

businesses can withst<strong>and</strong>.<br />

So What to do?<br />

There are 5 important steps every business owner needs to take in<br />

order to minimize risk <strong>and</strong> be as proactive as possible.<br />

1. Assess the current situation. Take a look at your accounts receivable<br />

<strong>and</strong> flag everything past due. Contact all account-holders <strong>and</strong><br />

make them aware that for your business’ continuity you must be firm<br />

about due dates. They should respect this need <strong>and</strong> do the same. Alert<br />

past-due accounts that collection action is imminent—give a specific<br />

date.<br />

2. Take immediate action. Send all non-responsive accounts <strong>and</strong><br />

any that are more than 60 days past due to MetCredit (as we remind<br />

our clients, 60 is the new 90 in the critical post-COVID-19 era). Our<br />

professional debt collection agents will treat your customers with<br />

respect, <strong>and</strong> establish a high payment priority for future dealings.<br />

3. Fortify business processes. The way people paid you in the past<br />

is probably not reliable enough for the new normal. Risk reduction<br />

should be top priority: sales are a dangerous liability when you can’t<br />

collect. Insist on full payment or substantial deposits—<strong>and</strong> make your<br />

credit application m<strong>and</strong>atory whenever you grant credit (which is<br />

anytime you are not paid in full upfront.) Be sure buyers underst<strong>and</strong><br />

when payment is due <strong>and</strong> acknowledge their commitment to you.<br />

4. Make it easy to pay—safely. We recommend Interac eTransfer or<br />

debit payments because funds are immediate, fees are low <strong>and</strong> there<br />

is little risk of chargebacks. If you offer financing for larger amounts,<br />

partner with a leasing or finance company that is equipped to manage<br />

the risks.<br />

5. Embrace the new normal. If you have been patiently waiting for old<br />

buying habits to resume, don’t! Some business models, such as airline<br />

travel, retail sales <strong>and</strong> buffet restaurants will surely never be the same.<br />

Instead of praying for the good old ways to come back, find ways to<br />

help customers with their new needs. And while you do it, protect<br />

your own business’ future.<br />

This is a hard reset, not a speed bump. It is an opportunity to become better,<br />

more efficient, <strong>and</strong> eventually more profitable than ever.<br />

Many, many businesses are going to fail. The ones that survive to rebuild the<br />

new economy will be the ones whose leaders are smart, bold, innovative <strong>and</strong><br />

proactive.<br />

I hope the latter group includes yours. Get energized, call upon your most<br />

inventive self, <strong>and</strong> take action!<br />

Need more help? Reach out to me or one of my helpful debt collection experts.<br />

Be safe <strong>and</strong> healthy—<strong>and</strong> the same goes for your business!<br />

Brian Summerfelt<br />

President <strong>and</strong> CEO of MetCredit, Canada’s top-performing<br />

consumer <strong>and</strong> commercial collection agency<br />

metcredit.com<br />

1-888-797-7727<br />

Left out in the cold?<br />

We’ll collect those<br />

receivables.<br />

Since 1973 MetCredit has been Canada’s go-to source for collecting<br />

business debt. For businesses of all sizes Canada-wide, we<br />

turn accounts receivable into accounts received—fast.<br />

MetCredit. We get it.<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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Shop. Donate. Volunteer.<br />

Get ready for huge scores at ReStore! Find<br />

great value on quality new <strong>and</strong> gently-used<br />

building materials, furniture, appliances, tools,<br />

<strong>and</strong> unique items to meet your renovation<br />

needs. All proceeds help families access<br />

affordable homeownership.<br />

Open to the public!<br />

20% OFF your next purchase!<br />

Coupon has no cash value. Valid only at Habitat <strong>Edmonton</strong> ReStores: 8210 Yellowhead Trail NW, 16811 106 Ave NW,<br />

4004 99 St NW, 7 Streambank Ave (Sherwood Park), <strong>and</strong> 10431a 96 Ave (Gr<strong>and</strong>e Prairie). Cannot be combined with<br />

other offers. One time use only. Coupon must be surrendered to cashier at time of purchase. Does not apply to items<br />

previously purchased at ReStore. Expires Dec 31, <strong>2023</strong>. Code RHA20.<br />

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The treasures you’ll find<br />

HFH.org<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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Come visit us at our br<strong>and</strong> new showroom<br />

at 2828 Ellwood Drive SW,<br />

<strong>Edmonton</strong>, Alberta


Stop by our showroom <strong>and</strong> Clearance Center located at<br />

2828 Ellwood Drive SW, <strong>Edmonton</strong>, Alberta<br />

780.457.DOOR (3667)<br />

Support of Mustard Seed, Hope Mission,<br />

Moms Canada, Little Warriors,<br />

<strong>Edmonton</strong> Minor Soccer Association<br />

<strong>and</strong> other local charities.<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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SCAN ME<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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Proud Supporters of The Home<br />

Advice Magazine


NOW BOOKING For Our Spring<br />

<strong>2023</strong> Edition!<br />

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@prairie_cedar_creations<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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Why Should We Care About Radon Gas?<br />

For many, concerns about radon seem to have come out of the<br />

woodwork. What exactly is radon gas <strong>and</strong> why is it so dangerous?<br />

While naturally occurring <strong>and</strong> ubiquitous, radon concentration is a<br />

significant health hazard as the second leading cause of lung cancer -<br />

<strong>and</strong> its entirely preventable.<br />

Radon comes from the breakdown of the naturally occurring element<br />

radium in our soil. Most of us think of radium as an element relegated<br />

to science fiction, we don’t imagine it could affect our day to day lives<br />

- <strong>and</strong> yet it can. Trace amounts of radium are found in the soil aggregate<br />

beneath our homes. As radioactive radium decays into radon gas<br />

it emits alpha particle radiation which is highly dangerous in elevated<br />

concentrations to human health. To complicate matters even further,<br />

radon gas is undetectable to the naked eye. It is invisible, odorless,<br />

<strong>and</strong> tasteless. The only way to determine your radon exposure levels<br />

is to test for it.<br />

Current Health Canada guidance recommends mitigation action<br />

be considered for homes determined as on average over 200 Bq/m3<br />

within two years, within one year for homes determined as on average<br />

above 600 Bq/m3. The National Building Code has also been updated<br />

in consideration of radon reduction methods. A radon rough-in<br />

pipe, aggregate requirements <strong>and</strong> vapour barrier specifications are<br />

now required for new construction to facilitate a completed activated<br />

radon mitigation system, should one be required.<br />

Hiring a professional is not required to obtain a proper radon measurement<br />

as a correctly placed radon test requires a long timeframe<br />

to ensure accuracy. It is vital to test over an extended period of time<br />

as radon fluctuates naturally, day-to-day, seasonally, <strong>and</strong> in response<br />

to changing weather conditions. Average exposure is key as radon is<br />

a long-term health hazard. Most often, radon is highest in the winter<br />

months <strong>and</strong> as such Health Canada advises testing over the winter<br />

heating season. It is best to test over a range of weather conditions to<br />

obtain an accurate long-term average, either by a C-NRPP approved<br />

alpha track test device or with a reputable digital radon monitor.<br />

If your radon levels are elevated, don’t panic. All homes can be effectively<br />

mitigated by radon reduction techniques. A properly installed<br />

professional radon mitigation system is customized to the unique<br />

needs of the residence. Considerations for challenging building<br />

characteristics such as grade beams, in-floor heating, ICF foundations,<br />

sub-slab ductwork, large footprints, finished basements, crawl<br />

spaces, extensive renovations <strong>and</strong> multiple concrete slab pours are<br />

included, <strong>and</strong> all are suitable c<strong>and</strong>idates for an energy efficient, effective<br />

<strong>and</strong> quiet mitigation system. Our experienced C-NRPP certified<br />

radon mitigation professionals are happy to offer our expert advice at<br />

any time to assist you in your radon inquiries.<br />

RadonCare proudly serves Central <strong>and</strong> Southern Alberta providing<br />

residential <strong>and</strong> commercial radon testing <strong>and</strong> mitigation solutions.<br />

RadonCare is a proud research partner with Evict Radon, a member of<br />

C-NRPP <strong>and</strong> the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists <strong>and</strong> Technologists,<br />

the Alberta Construction Safety Association <strong>and</strong> COR safety<br />

certified. We are actively involved in many community initiatives with<br />

members on the C-NRPP Policy Advisory Board <strong>and</strong> on the CARST<br />

Board of Directors. Past clients have included school boards <strong>and</strong><br />

divisions, care facilities, private management companies <strong>and</strong> government.<br />

Radon is our passion, <strong>and</strong> we take great pride in reducing<br />

radon exposure to our clients <strong>and</strong> providing informed advice.<br />

1-844-RADONCA (772-6622)<br />

info@radoncare.ca<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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24 HOMEADVICE


4 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE<br />

BUYING A NEW FRONT DOOR<br />

The front door is arguably one of the most important entry points of<br />

your home. A well thought out <strong>and</strong> designed front entry way can set<br />

a welcoming tone for your home. The right door will balance out the<br />

exterior aesthetic, boost curb appeal, <strong>and</strong> protect your home.<br />

Not all front doors are made equal, which is why it is important for<br />

you to consider these 4 things before you make your final decision.<br />

STYLE<br />

Your front door reflects your architectural preference <strong>and</strong> personal<br />

style. You do not want to flippantly choose a front door for your home.<br />

The wrong door could throw off aesthetic balance. Not only will your<br />

home look better <strong>and</strong> more cohesive with the right front door, but it<br />

will also improve its resale value. A new door is a relatively inexpensive<br />

improvement that promises a strong return on investment.<br />

MATERIALS<br />

There are a variety of materials that doors can be constructed from.<br />

Each type of door has its own benefits <strong>and</strong> drawbacks. When choosing<br />

a front door for your home, you need to consider how the specific<br />

characteristics of each material may influence their performance.<br />

FIBERGLASS<br />

Fibreglass doors are a great option if you are looking for energy<br />

efficiency, low maintenance, <strong>and</strong> customizability. They come in a<br />

wide array of colors, styles, <strong>and</strong> textures, so it is easy to blend into the<br />

overall aesthetic of your home. The insulation they offer can also help<br />

offset energy costs, which makes them more affordable in the long<br />

run, despite the initial purchase price. The fiberglass doors offered<br />

by Window Mart, for example, feature a polyurethane core free from<br />

chlorofluorocarbons, delivering superior energy efficiency compared<br />

to wood doors (up to 6 times more insulating, in fact). Fiberglass<br />

doors are also exceptionally durable <strong>and</strong> are designed to resist corrosion<br />

<strong>and</strong> deterioration.<br />

WOOD<br />

True wood adds a certain level of rustic beauty that is not achievable<br />

with other materials. Wood doors can be stained or painted to achieve<br />

the look you want, yet each one remains completely unique. Other<br />

ways to customize wood doors include decorative glass inserts, stylish<br />

hardware options or added embellishments. The downside to wood<br />

doors is that they require continual maintenance to prevent warping,<br />

swelling, or rotting. It is also often recommended that a storm door be<br />

installed to protect the wood from the elements, which can take away<br />

from the classic style you are looking for in a wood front door. Wood<br />

doors are elegant, but high-maintenance.<br />

improves their energy efficiency performance. Window Mart, for<br />

example, carries several steel door products with a high-density polyurethane<br />

foam filling that increases insulation <strong>and</strong> reduces thermal<br />

transfer.<br />

BUDGET<br />

How much money are you comfortable spending? This is probably<br />

one of the most important questions you need to ask before beginning<br />

any home improvement project, <strong>and</strong> replacing your front door<br />

is no exception. The initial investment versus long-term benefits,<br />

such as reduced energy costs. High-quality materials, also require less<br />

maintenance, which also results in long-term savings. Should also be<br />

conscientious of hidden costs, such as extra finishing. Wood doors,<br />

for example, may require additional painting or staining that is not included<br />

in the purchase price. Choosing a reputable window <strong>and</strong> door<br />

company will ensure that your new front door is installed properly<br />

<strong>and</strong> save you from potentially costly mistakes.<br />

SECURITY<br />

When it comes to choosing a front door for your home the possible<br />

security features are an invaluable consideration. Most of the doors<br />

on the market are similar in terms of the strength of their basic construction.<br />

If you are going to make any customizations, such as adding<br />

glass inserts or side panels, you may want to consider options that<br />

offer additional safety. Glazed glass, for example, is harder to break<br />

into. You may also want to consider your desired level of privacy. Textured<br />

or frosted glass makes it so passersby cannot see directly into<br />

your home, but still allows for natural light to enter. Front Doors are<br />

incredibly important assets of the safety <strong>and</strong> security of your home,<br />

<strong>and</strong> in turn, your family.<br />

CONCLUSION<br />

Choosing a new front door for your home is an incredibly important<br />

task. If you take all the things listed into consideration you are sure to<br />

find a front door with the perfect balance of function <strong>and</strong> beauty.<br />

Window Mart provides high-quality front door options <strong>and</strong> installation<br />

services for homeowners in Alberta, Saskatchewan <strong>and</strong> Ontario.<br />

Contact our friendly staff today to get your complimentary estimate<br />

for your home’s front door replacement.<br />

STEEL<br />

Steel doors are as stunning as they are durable. They provide a superior<br />

level of security while still offering color <strong>and</strong> texture customizability<br />

(though not quite as much as with fiberglass). Steel does have the<br />

potential to rust over time, so it is important to choose a high-quality<br />

option with protective coating like what is offered at Window Mart.<br />

Some steels doors are also offered with an insulated core which<br />

improves their energy efficiency performance. Window Mart, for<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

25


Troubleshooting Why Your Snow<br />

Blower's Auger Won't Turn<br />

There’s nothing more frustrating as a snow blower owner than when<br />

you venture out into the cold to clear your property after a winter<br />

storm <strong>and</strong> your machine doesn’t work. Not only are you stuck with a<br />

whole lot of snow to clear <strong>and</strong> nothing to clear it with, but now you’ve<br />

got to figure out what’s wrong with your once-trusty snow blower.<br />

If the problem is that your snow blower’s auger is no longer turning,<br />

there are a few potential causes <strong>and</strong> we’re here to help you troubleshoot<br />

the issue. Thankfully, a few of the causes can be fixed if you have<br />

the proper replacement parts on h<strong>and</strong>. Check out this list of snow<br />

blower replacement parts so you know which ones you should keep in<br />

your garage or shed, just in case.<br />

Here are six parts that may be the cause of your snow blower’s auger<br />

trouble:<br />

Belts<br />

The snow blower’s auger is driven by a belt that is engaged by the auger<br />

control lever on the machine’s h<strong>and</strong>les. If the auger belt becomes worn<br />

down or breaks, the auger will fail to turn when the control lever is<br />

engaged, <strong>and</strong> the defective belt or belts will need to be replaced[1] .<br />

Shear Pins<br />

causing further damage to the machine if a chunk of ice or a rock<br />

becomes lodged in the auger housing.<br />

Found along the main auger shaft, shear pins attach the augers to the<br />

shaft <strong>and</strong> when the shear pins break the affected augers will no longer<br />

turn. If you find that one of your snow blower’s shear pins is the cause<br />

of your auger issues, you’ll have to install a new pin or pins[2] to get<br />

the auger working again.<br />

Auger Assembly<br />

If you’ve checked the shear pins on your snow blower <strong>and</strong> they appear<br />

to be intact, then inspect the auger blades <strong>and</strong> auger assembly.<br />

Your snow blower’s auger blades can become damaged or bent <strong>and</strong><br />

may need to be replaced. On certain snow blower models, auger blades<br />

are separate from the assembly <strong>and</strong> can be changed out individually<br />

when necessary. However, some auger blades are attached to the<br />

assembly, meaning if a blade is damaged then the entire assembly may<br />

have to be replaced.<br />

You might also need to replace the entire auger assembly[3] if it has<br />

become worn out, so check the whole of the assembly for wear <strong>and</strong><br />

tear.<br />

Snow blower shear pins are made to break (or shear) in half to avoid<br />

26 HOMEADVICE


Gearbox<br />

Your snow blower’s gearbox is in the auger housing in the middle of the<br />

machine’s two auger blades <strong>and</strong> uses gears to power the auger shaft. If<br />

the snow blower’s drive shaft has power <strong>and</strong> the shear pins aren’t broken,<br />

then the gears may be causing the issue <strong>and</strong> should be inspected.<br />

Other key indications of a problem with the gearbox are the sound of<br />

grinding coming from the auger housing or the feeling of the augers<br />

jumping while operating the snow blower.<br />

Bearings<br />

Your snow blower’s bearings help the auger shaft spin properly <strong>and</strong><br />

smoothly within the auger housing. If the bearings become loose,<br />

worn down or seized, the auger may not rotate correctly, <strong>and</strong> you’ll<br />

need to have new bearings installed where necessary.<br />

Auger Cable<br />

The auger drive cable engages the auger when the control lever is used.<br />

If the auger cable stretches or breaks, then the augers won’t turn.<br />

In some cases, your snow blower’s auger cable can be tightened if it’s<br />

just been stretched so it’s worth giving that a try. However, if the cable<br />

is broken then a new one is needed for the snow blower to work again.<br />

Learn more at<br />

realhomeadvice.ca<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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28 HOMEADVICE<br />

Proud Supporters of The Home<br />

Advice Magazine


NOW BOOKING For Our Spring<br />

<strong>2023</strong> Edition!<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

29


THE CITY OF CALGARY<br />

This summer visit Tourism <strong>Calgary</strong> https://www.visitcalgary.com/ for<br />

more information regarding the numerous events ranging from art<br />

shows, concerts, sports events <strong>and</strong> other organized activities posted<br />

for the summer months of July <strong>and</strong> August into September.<br />

30 HOMEADVICE


<strong>Calgary</strong>’s history goes back to 1787 with the first recorded European<br />

to the area, cartographer David Thompson. Eighty-six years later<br />

the first settler came to the <strong>Calgary</strong> area, <strong>and</strong> with that, the late 19th<br />

century grew replete with much history in this region.<br />

The Canadian Pacific Railway arrived in 1883, <strong>and</strong> the incorporation<br />

<strong>and</strong> inauguration of <strong>Calgary</strong> <strong>and</strong> its first mayor took place in 1884. It<br />

was not until 1902 that oil was first discovered in Alberta, <strong>and</strong> in 1947<br />

when large oil reserves were found in the province, making <strong>Calgary</strong><br />

the centre of the oil boom. Growth has taken place exponentially<br />

since then.<br />

The centre of the city is situated in the south of Alberta <strong>and</strong> is the<br />

largest city in Alberta. East of the Yoho National Park, Banff National<br />

Part, the Elbow-Sheep Wildl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Peter Lougheed Provincial Park<br />

in Alberta, <strong>Calgary</strong> lies in an area of foothills <strong>and</strong> prairie, <strong>and</strong> sits east<br />

of the Canadian Rockies. Highway one connects the city to Banff <strong>and</strong><br />

Highway 2 heads north to Innisfail <strong>and</strong> towards Red Deer.<br />

A greatly diverse city, <strong>Calgary</strong> can count over 200 well-planned, safe<br />

<strong>and</strong> unique “communities” or neighbourhoods in the region. With<br />

<strong>Calgary</strong> divided into four quadrants – Northwest, Northeast, Southwest<br />

<strong>and</strong> Southeast <strong>Calgary</strong>, the Bow River on the north borders the<br />

downtown commercial core; the Elbow River forms the boundary to<br />

the east.<br />

The downtown area is home to the Government, entertainment<br />

districts <strong>and</strong> retail core along with other neighborhoods – such as the<br />

Downtown West End, East Village <strong>and</strong> Commercial Core. Other neighborhoods<br />

include Chinatown, Eau Claire <strong>and</strong> the Beltline – separated<br />

with mostly residential <strong>and</strong> mixed-use neighborhoods.<br />

The population of the City of <strong>Calgary</strong> according to its 2019 municipal<br />

census is 1,285,711, a change of 1.4% from its 2018 municipal census<br />

population of 1,267,344. There are a total of 469,874 households <strong>and</strong><br />

328, 583 families. The biggest demographic in age group is the 25 to<br />

29 year olds <strong>and</strong> 30 to 34 year olds. The 35 – 39 year olds along with 40<br />

– 44 year old age group form a large part of the demographics.<br />

The 2019 age distribution estimates the greatest increase in the demographics<br />

will come through the 35 to 44 years olds. Young families<br />

are gravitating towards <strong>Calgary</strong>’s way of life, <strong>and</strong> populations in other<br />

towns in the region such as Canmore, Okotoks <strong>and</strong> Strathmore have<br />

contributed towards the fast growing pace of these communities.<br />

<strong>Calgary</strong>’s economy includes energy, financial services, film <strong>and</strong><br />

television, transportation <strong>and</strong> logistics, technology, manufacturing,<br />

aerospace, health <strong>and</strong> wellness, <strong>and</strong> retail <strong>and</strong> tourism sectors. The<br />

region is a major transportation hub for Southern Alberta, Saskatchewan,<br />

BC <strong>and</strong> parts of northern USA. Statistics Canada defines the<br />

<strong>Calgary</strong> CMA as including nine municipalities: <strong>Calgary</strong> <strong>and</strong> Airdrie,<br />

Rocky View County, Chestermere, Cochrane, Crossfield <strong>and</strong> Irricana,<br />

the village of Beiseker, <strong>and</strong> First Nations Reserve – Tsuu T’ina Nation.<br />

According to the <strong>Calgary</strong> Real Estate Board – CREB®<br />

2020 opens with a slight gain in sales Housing market conditions continue<br />

to follow similar trends to last year, with gains in sales.<br />

At the same time, there have been further reductions in new listings,<br />

inventory <strong>and</strong> more declines in prices.<br />

January sales activity was 863 units, nearly eight per cent higher than<br />

last year’s levels. While sales remained well below January activity<br />

recorded before 2014, they remain consistent with activity recorded<br />

over the past five years.<br />

“A persistent slowdown in the energy sector has resulted in a reset in<br />

many aspects of our economy. This includes the housing market,”<br />

said CREB® chief economist Ann-Marie Lurie.<br />

“We continue to see the slow adjustment to more balanced conditions,<br />

but it will take time before that starts to translate into price<br />

stability.”<br />

Citywide unadjusted benchmark prices were $417,100 in January.<br />

This is slightly lower than the previous month <strong>and</strong> nearly one per cent<br />

lower than last year’s levels.<br />

Benchmark prices eased, but there were some modest improvements<br />

in both the average <strong>and</strong> median prices. This is likely a reflection of<br />

some changes in the distribution of sales.<br />

HOMEADVICE<br />

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