Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the top projects in period and country properties, with kitchen remodel ideas also proving popular in new homes too.

This is because a generous kitchen is now the epicenter for modern home life and a hub for cooking, entertaining, working, and more.

From side and rear extensions to conservatories and basement designs, there are a number of options available when it comes to planning a kitchen layout for your remodel.

To help you decide on the most suitable extension for your needs, start by asking your kitchen designer for advice. Kitchen extensions are now a common request, so many kitchen companies will be able to recommend a good builder or architect to help bring your kitchen ideas to life. It's also worth asking friends and family for recommendations of tradesmen in your area.

Charlie Kingham, director of Charlie Kingham Cabinetmakers (opens in new tab), lists the main benefits of taking steps to remodeling a kitchen: Firstly, your kitchen will become a more sociable space. Secondly, you can improve light-levels, traffic flow and overall comfort so that cooking is more pleasurable. And thirdly, done beautifully, you should see a return on investment, if not profit, when it comes to your propertys value.

Here, we take you through the options for your kitchen remodel plus give you plenty of inspiration for choosing the right kitchen layouts and designs.

(Image credit: Irene Gunter)

Remodeling a kitchen will give valuable extra floor space, but factoring in an additional source of light with kitchen ceiling ideas is a must to prevent the extended space from feeling dark and gloomy. With flat-roofed extensions or kitchens that extend out to the side, a roof light, lantern or skylights are a popular option that will optimize natural light and help to increase the sense of space in a kitchen extension.

A flat roof light can be a good choice for a modern property if you dont want to see it from the outside as they sit very low to the roof. Alternatively, a roof lantern is a raised structure and can be a more decorative option, as well as providing additional height to the ergonomic of the extension.

Position is key if you want to maximize the levels of natural light coming in. Think about where and at what time of day youll need the most daylight. And bear in mind the aspect of the room - whether north or south facing - which will affect how much light your extension receives.

We worked with a palette of rich colors to make the most of the daylight on offer in the property, from lighter colors in light-filled spaces to warm and rich shades in darker spaces, says design guru Irene Gunter of interior architecture and design studio Gunter & Co (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

When remodeling the kitchen in a period home, choose a design that enhances the build and character of the original property for a more sympathetic look. Using materials that complement the existing property and a design that is sensitive to the heritage will help new additions look like they've always been there, rather than standing out as new.

This oak-framed extension by Hartwood Oak (opens in new tab) was designed in keeping with the original period cottage and its surroundings, with a weathered timber facade and large windows that allow uninterrupted view over the countryside. Inside, a vaulted ceiling creates the wow factor and makes a stunning setting for traditional kitchen ideas and seating area.

(Image credit: Irene Gunter)

Rather than an extensive re-build, re-working a clunky layout can often be the remedy thats needed, from knocking down walls or reconfiguring floor space, to moving awkwardly-positioned doors and staircases or L-shaped kitchen ideas.

Our brief was to maximise the interior space available, transform the awkward layout to make better use of the balconies and to maximise the views out to the treetops on all sides of the building, says architect Irene Gunter. The clients love for cooking, coffee and entertaining was reflected by creating a new layout centred around the large kitchen and dining room, making it the hub of the home.

(Image credit: Paul Craig/The Myers Touch)

If the footprint of your kitchen cant be altered to create more space, then using the height of the room to its full potential is an alternative way of achieving extra storage in a small space or modern kitchen ideas. Opt for full-height wall cabinets that extend to ceiling level, rather than standard-height designs. Taking cabinets higher will mean that there are no dust-gathering gaps above units, for a sleeker look, plus it will give valuable extra inches of cupboard space inside.

Make the contents of cupboards easily accessible by installing a rolling kitchen ladder so you can reach into the loftiest top units. A permanent ladder is about so much more than accessible high-level storage, says designer Keith Myers, founder of The Myers Touch (opens in new tab). A beautiful ladder provides an interesting, eye-catching feature, while the metal rail introduces a punchy design detail in this SieMatic SLX kitchen project by Adam Knibb Architects.

(Image credit: Woodworks Brighton)

Extend your living space and add more natural light in one move, by opting for a modern glass kitchen extension. A dramatic glass structure will add space and a sense of openness to a property, whether a simple glass side return to create extra kitchen space, a standalone glass box structure or an elegant all-glass conservatory at the rear of a property.

Heritage property? Dont rule out adding a glass structure as a way of gaining extra space. Adding a modern glass extension on to a period house can be a striking way of making a clear distinction between old and new, while still maintaining the integrity of the building fabric.

(Image credit: LochAnna Kitchens)

If youre already considering extending your property to the side to give you a large kitchen, then why not go one bigger and opt for a wraparound extension instead. A wraparound is a hybrid of a side and rear extension that literally wraps itself around two sides of a property, not only extending the depth at the back but adding extra width to the layout too.

A wraparound extension can pretty much double the existing floor space, so is ideal if you want to create an open-play layout that incorporates kitchen, dining and living space in one large, open area.

(Image credit: Humphrey Munson / Paul Craig)

If a full-sized kitchen extension is out of the question, consider down-sizing your options and remodeling kitchen space on a smaller scale. Pantry ideas and larders are the latest kitchen must-have and are a great way of streamlining kitchen space, with kitchen food stuffs, store cupboard ingredients and small appliances like toasters and mixers all located in one place.

If you have an unused downstairs closet, alcove or vacant box room downstairs, turning it into a purpose-built walk-in larder is a great way of utilizing it and will free-up cupboard space in the main kitchen. Alternatively, if space is tight, consider remodeling the kitchen layout to include a built-in cupboard-style pantry or a freestanding larder cupboard.

(Image credit: Woodworks Brighton)

While a kitchen extension can generate much-need space, remodeling the layout is also a great way of letting more natural light into your home which in turn will make the kitchen feel brighter and more spacious.

Make the most of a fabulous view outdoors by sacrificing one wall to an entire wall of glazing, with either bi-folds or sliding glass doors that will let maximum light flood in. As long as you have sufficient wall space in the rest of the room to house kitchen cabinets and appliances or space for a supersized kitchen island then wall-to-wall glazing can be a fabulous addition to a kitchen extension.

Bi-fold doors are an excellent choice for modern kitchens, with doors neatly stacking together when opened to leave a wide uninterrupted view out onto a garden, as well as giving a neat flooring threshold that creates a seamless effect indoors and out.

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

Make an island the hub of your kitchen with a supersized model that incorporates a hob, prep space and a sink area. A useful addition to a kitchen if wall space is limited, an island can also be useful for creating a natural room break when positioned centrally in a large open-plan area

If space allows, a generous kitchen island is ideal for creating a focal point that can be both stylish and practical,' says Rebecca Nokes, head of design & BrandCreative,JohnLewis of Hungerford (opens in new tab). 'To get the most from your kitchen island, think about incorporating a number of different elements such as a hob, sink or even wine fridge. Or if youre looking for extra storage think about including large drawers to neatly stash small appliances and cookware.

(Image credit: Drew Forsyth)

Where open-plan has been the preferred layout for kitchens and living spaces over recent years, designers are seeing a move away from this, with broken-plan living now the go-to approach.

Drawbacks of open-plan living are the lack of privacy, noise issues and difficulty to heat large spaces. While broken-plan living is all about using space cleverly and creating zones for different activities, but still offering connectivity too. Cleverly-placed screens, partitions and furniture are used to subtly partition areas off and create zones for cooking, dining or entertaining while still retaining the feel of a spacious open-plan space.

Were predicting a big rise in broken-plan living, as homeowners seek to create multi-functional spaces with added privacy, explains George Forsyth, MD of Drew Forsyth & Co (opens in new tab). A lot of projects now ask for an open-plan layout, perhaps merging kitchen and living room by knocking the adjacent wall down, and incorporating seating areas and large islands. And now we are seeing a definite shift from open-plan to broken-plan too. This is a likely result of working from home more and the completely open-plan layout now allowing for cozy or quiet areas.

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

Light-filled from morning until night, expanding a kitchen via a conservatory is a particularly popular kitchen extension idea in properties that are north-facing or generally dark inside.

It can also be the best way to maximize a great view. Although conservatories often come under your permitted development rights and dont require planning permission, if they are open to the main house (i.e. not self-contained, with a lockable door) building regulations do apply.

The main downside to locating a kitchen inside a conservatory revolves around heat loss/gain. Unmanaged, conservatories can be unpleasantly hot in summer and chilly in winter.

Solar control glass, underfloor heating and automatic ventilation can all be used to ensure a comfortable environment year-round but will add significantly to your kitchen renovation cost. Part of your budget should be allocated to these aspects appropriately.

Be aware that so much glazing can also limit a kitchen layout and design, as there are fewer solid walls to support cabinetry.

(Image credit: Future / Veronica Rodriguez)

It is also important to remember that, all heavily glazed structures require careful consideration when it comes to choosing the finishes and materials for cupboards and worktops, as bleaching is an issue.

As well as using glare-reducing glass and installing blinds, it pays to select paler kitchen countertops that wont show the effects as noticeably.

Using UV protective varnishes on woods and light paint finishes on stable materials will significantly minimize sun damage to furniture and cabinets, says Peter Humphrey of Humphrey Munson (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)

A basement conversion can offer a whole extra floor of space within your homes existing footprint and is perfectly placed for a generous open plan kitchen and diner that opens out onto the garden.

If you love entertaining at home and want a spacious kitchen-dining-living area to suit all the family, but dont have enough space on the ground floor, a cleverly designed basement conversion or lower ground floor extension might be just the way to create what you want.

'Basement kitchens can command the same square footage price as other floors in a property, as an average, and they have become far more accepted over the last few years thanks to modern engineering and design,' says Michael Wilson, director and head of sales for London-based estate agents, Mountgrange Heritage (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

If you are struggling for cooking and dining space, creating a bigger kitchen with side extension ideas could be the answer.

For period terraced homes, the path or back garden to the side of a kitchen at the rear - called the side return - can be extended into to create a kitchen that runs the full width of the house.You can also combine rear and side extensions for a stunning wrap-around kitchen.

One of the most popular building projects for homeowners, the side return extension can create a big open-plan room with space for dining and seating. As well as adding more space it can also increase the value of your home, if you decide to sell, too.

Extending out to the side is a good option if you live in a semi-detached or detached home, as it doesnt mean using garden space. You may lose side access to your garden though, and planning permission can be trickier as it will be determined by how close you are to you neighbours boundary.

Remember also to consider how light will reach the rooms the new space will extend over.

(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)

When thoughtfully designed, a modern kitchen remodel can enhance an older building, enabling you to create a home which is more suitable for modern living.

Perhaps you could add a light-filled, open-plan kitchen-diner which opens out onto the garden, or a family living space with floor-to-ceiling glazing.

Many period homes suffer from a lack of light and space or indeed from unattractive additions so a well-planned extension can transform the flow and feel.

Start by understanding what is special about the existing building: an extension should respect what is already there as well as adding another layer of history,' advises Trevor Mitchell, Historic England (opens in new tab).

'Generally its best to avoid the front elevation: the extension should sit more quietly to avoid a shouting match between old and new.'

(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)

Careful choice of materials is crucial. An expanse of glass paired with characterful brickwork is often effective. Not only does it serve as an attractive foil for a period home, but can introduce a sense of light and space. Glass walkways are useful in delineating the transition between two phases of development as well as creating visual separation.

Do consider the scale of the kitchen extension: the aim is to complement rather than dwarf the original property and planners will tend to look more favorably on a design which respects the proportions and keys features of it. Its also worth doing some research on the buildings history to contextualize its heritage.

(Image credit: Will Scott Photography)

As we gain more experience and become more imaginative with our kitchen projects, embrace the realization that when designing a kitchen, moving it to an entirely new space when remodeling can make it an even more successful design.

Robert Burnett, Head of Design, Holloways of Ludlow Kitchens (opens in new tab), comments on the logistics ofremoving wall and working around structural beams to change a kitchen space:

If the aim of removing a wall is to create the appearance of a single large room then consider positioning the supporting steel beam within the ceiling space. This may be more disruptive and expensive than locating the supporting beam below the ceiling, but it helps remove any visual reminder that the space was ever split, especially if there are no visible columns and has the end result of a clear and uncluttered transformation

(Image credit: TR Studio)

Its important to retain a sense of integrity when remodelling a kitchen. Employ an architect throughout the building process, as they will be able to follow the concept through from the initial sketch to the smallest detail and liaise with the builders to ensure that your plans are brought to life.

In this space, 'the basement floor was lowered to improve the head height, the un-used rear courtyard was fully enclosed, and a glass roof was added for light,' explains Tom Rutt, found of TR Studio (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: The Radiator Centre)

'While a kitchen remodel in a conservatory or with large picture windows, certainly makes a lovely light-filled room, there can be a lack of wall space with so much glass vertical radiators or trench heating are a good option in these circumstances, says Nick Duggan, managing director of The Radiator Centre (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Kitesgrove)

Kitchen shelving ideas whether open shelving or hidden within a cupboard or behind pocket doors are a great option if you have the wall space.

Read the rest here:
Remodeling a kitchen: 28 best kitchen remodel ideas for any space

Understanding your needs Vs wants

A fancy-looking kitchen feature might attract you, but do you need one for your Katy kitchen? Make sure you access your needs and wants and take time to determine if you actually NEED what you WANT? This is critical if youre low on budget. While we do not recommend opting for anything outside your needs, you are free to choose if you can afford it.

Note that skilled kitchen remodeling companies focus on your needs and make featural adjustments to fulfill your wants, too. Simply put, they would not install anything outside your needs, and what they build takes care of both your wants and needs.

Because its your kitchen, YOU need to decide what you want. Customers often know they want to remodel their kitchen but have no idea HOW they want it to look.

You can always browse the internet to find the latest remodeling plans. Scroll through popular kitchen redesigning pages on Facebook and check out your favorite Pinterest boards who knows; you might stumble across your ideal kitchen design?

Your budget plays a primary role when designing your kitchen. You can always contact a professional Katy kitchen remodel company, like us, to get a free consultation.

This gives you a chance to convey what you desire to achieve and see if it fits your budget. If it doesnt, you can always wait for a few more months to save for your kitchen remodeling. Otherwise, a knowledgeable company will guide you about cost-effective alternatives.

Remember, you are redesigning your kitchen to enhance your cooking and eating experience. What good is remodeling if it doesnt bring you convenience and comfort?

The sole purpose of kitchen remodeling isnt to create something merely to please the eyes. You must focus on increasing your kitchens functionality. The luxury-looking countertops will not make sense if you clutter your grocery on them merely because you didnt build enough cabinets.

Why are you going for kitchen remodeling? Is style your prime focus, or is improving functionality your mission? Every individual has varying priorities. You need to determine yours before choosing a company for redesigning your kitchen.

Do not go for a new kitchen design merely because you saw it on an Instagram page. It might not serve your needs, and your money might go down the drain. Make sure you understand your priorities and pick a design model accordingly.

You cannot achieve your ideal kitchen design without contacting a professional. Skilled craftsmen have years of experience and can guide you better, considering your needs, budget, and ideas.

Oftentimes, individuals have an idea in their head, but they find it challenging to convey. If youre in the same boat, talking to a professional will give way to your thoughts, and theyll quickly determine your needs. This will help you craft an appropriate kitchen design plan, and you wont regret going for one which you may without professional help.

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Home - Cane Island Kitchen Remodeling Solutions

Nielson Hardwoods Inc. and Willow and Wilson give expert tips for kitchen remodels  The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel

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Nielson Hardwoods Inc. and Willow and Wilson give expert tips for kitchen remodels - The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel

Noted the Best HVAC Company in Monroe, Michigan J&K Heating & Cooling Techs Sport New Uniforms to Prove It  PRUnderground

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Noted the Best HVAC Company in Monroe, Michigan J&K Heating & Cooling Techs Sport New Uniforms to Prove It - PRUnderground

Consider the following factors when deciding between pest control companies.

Perhaps the most important factor is which pests you want protection from. Are you looking for a package that covers a variety of common household pests, or a targeted plan that only tackles mosquito control? Some providers offer a broad range of plans, while others offer specialized treatments.

Your budget is key, and its always a good idea to shop around for several quotes. Pest control companies might give you a general estimate over the phone, but theyll need to do an in-home inspection to give you the most accurate quote. Its also important to research the billing process. Some providers offer one-time payments, while others follow a standardized billing cycle.

Each pest control companys plans are unique, so costs will vary among providers.The following factors determine what youll pay:

Not all providers offer visits in monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly intervals. Make sure you choose a plan that has visits as frequently as you want them.

Most pest control companies offer a service guarantee, but the terms vary. Some companies offer free reservice if pests return, while others include a full refund for the unsuccessful treatment if you remain a customer.

Orkin offers a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee that ensures free reservice if pests return between scheduled visits. If the pest issue cant be resolved, Orkin will refund your most recent service payment as long as you remain a customer.

Terminix provides different guarantees, depending on the service. It offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for its general pest control plan that states a Terminix technician will re-treat pests for free if they return. The company will also refund your latest payment if you arent 100% satisfied with your service.

Terminix offers an Ultimate Protection Guarantee for termites. Qualifying homeowners will never have to pay for treatment or repairs from termite damage as long as they maintain their plan.

Finally, Terminix offers a comprehensive Bed Bug Guarantee. The company will provide free reservice if you find bed bugs in a treated area within 30 days. The guarantee increases to 90 days if you buy a mattress encasement for every mattress and box spring in your house.

A companys reputation says a lot about its trustworthiness, competence, and reliability. Look at the providers history and customer reviews to find one with the best quality of service. A company with decades of experience and a proven track record may do a better job than a newcomer.

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The Best Pest Control Companies of March 2023 - This Old House

If youre wondering how much pest control costs, its usually not as simple as just a flat rate. These are many different factors that can influence the final cost of your pest control service. If youre looking to hire a pest control company, consider the following factors when it comes to pricing:

After finding one uninvited pest in your home, you can assume there is more. Therefore, when hiring a pest control company, its essential to understand the types of services they provide which includes:

Pest Extermination:Used when there is an existing pest problem. These services can be provided in many forms, including insecticide sprays, insect traps, or in extreme situations, tenting and fumigation of your whole home.

Pest Removal:Used for critters that are not necessarily infesting your home. An expert in pest removal can come to your home to trap and relocate these larger pests like raccoons, opossums, squirrels, etc.

Pest Prevention:Used to prevent a pest problem before it starts, this implies getting regular treatments for your home to repel pests and cut off any entry points into your home.

The pest control cost will vary depending on the service youll need.

Several factors determine the frequency of service a pest control company will need to complete the job, such as the type of service required, the extent of the infestation, the size of your home and more. Therefore, the more extensive the treatment, the more frequent the service required and the higher the cost.

It is no secret that numerous types of pests could potentially infiltrate your home; each type of pest will require different treatments to resolve the issue. Therefore, giving one flat price for a pest control companys assistance isnt easy. For the most accurate quote on your pest problem, its best to contact your local pest control company.

Depending on the type of pest, the extent of the infestation, the size of your home, etc., a pest control company will determine the type of treatment needed for the best results. From using sprays to fumigating your whole home, the price of the pest control treatment will undoubtedly vary.

The size of your home or property (i.e., square footage of your home and how many bedrooms/bathrooms) will undoubtedly be a question your local pest control company will ask when producing their initial quote. Since this information will determine how much treatment will be required, it will factor into the cost of the service.

Depending on the severity of the pest infestation, your home or property may require several treatments or an extensive treatment like fumigation, which will increase the overall cost of your service.

Every pest control company will have different rates for each treatment type. Therefore, it is essential to do your research when selecting a company. Read reviews, ask your neighbors or check reputable sources to find a company that is experienced in the type of treatment your home needs.

The cost of your pest control treatment also depends on your location. For instance, the rate will differ if your location is more prone to pest issues compared to others. Additionally, if your home is secluded, your local pest company may be compelled to charge extra for travel costs.

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How Much Does Pest Control Cost? Forbes Home

Looking for information on how to clean air ducts yourself? First, let's talk about why you want to clean themand whether or not investing in the tools and materials required to get the job done is even worth it.

When you think about it, it does make sense that you'd want to clean your ductwork. You've spent time learning how to clean car seats, how to clean dryer vents, and how to clean walls; why should you ignore your HVAC? Plus, since its ducts make an appearance in so many different areas of your home, wouldn't it make sense that they'd get dusty? Like, really dusty?

This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Yes and no. Sure, HVAC filters accumulate dust, but usually not to a detrimental degree. That's why many people believe it's not actually necessary to clean them. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), duct cleaning "has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts."

What's more, cleaning your air ducts the "wrong way" can make things worse, not better. You might end up dislodging debris and bringing allergens into your home that weren't previously a problem. Inexperienced individuals could also end up permanently damaging their HVAC systems, or worse, hurting themselves. Where mold is involved, the cleanup process becomes more than just a liability for your home; it potentially becomes downright dangerous for you.

Here's what to know, and how to determine if you should clean the ducts. And while you're feeling inspired to get your home in tip-top shape, get our best tips for how to wash comforters and how to clean your garbage disposal.

The EPA does recommend cleaning ducts on certain occasions: if and when there is substantial visible mold growth inside the components of your heating and cooling system, if and when the ducts are infested with rodents or insects, and if and when the ducts are so debris-filled that an enormous amount of dust is actually making its way into your home through them.

If there's visible mold or mildew on the ducts, or if you hear noises coming from within them, you should probably contact a professional. But if you're just acting on a hunch, we suggest you begin by examining the vents, grilles, drip pans, and/or registers of your unit. Do you notice any discoloration or dark dust? Do you smell anything unusual?

Another question to ask yourself is whether airflow is consistent in each room of your home. Dirt, dust, or mold buildup could be responsible for restricting the air's pathway throughout your house.

If you determine or suspect that there is mold growth, a rodent or insect infestation, or dust making its way into your home through your air ducts, or if you're worried about consistent airflow room to room, it could be worth it to hire a professional to clean your ducts.

There is, however, the matter of expenses. As you might expect, it can be incredibly pricey to turn to the expertsso, if there's no real need to do so, you might find yourself spending money unnecessarily. If mold is really the issue though, it's important to take action.

According to a set of estimates from HomeAdvisor.com, professional HVAC mold removal will run you anywhere from $600 to $2,000and that might be on top of the standard HVAC cleaning fees, which could be anywhere from $100 to $1,000. That's because mold removal often involves special equipment, chemicals, and of course, extra time on the part of the professional.

You'll likely be charged one of three ways: a flat rate for all the services and add-ons, a "per vent" fee, or a fee determined by the square footage of the ducts.

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How to Clean Air Ducts Yourself - HVAC Duct Cleaning Tips

Your ductwork is an important piece of your HVAC system. Duct cleaning can help improve HVAC performance and home air quality.

This piece will review the benefits of duct cleaning and provide an overview of how to clean air ducts yourself.

Vaccum

Bissell 2252

Cleaning brush

Rubbermaid 14.5-inch brush

Screwdriver

Amazon Basics 51-piece bit set

Paper towels

Bounty quick-size

Air filter

Filtrete AC furnace air filter

According to HomeAdvisor, it costs an average of $376 to have your air ducts professionally cleaned. The price may vary based on elements like accessibility and lifestyle factors (e.g., if you have pets or smokers in the house).

DIY air duct cleaning will save you money since it involves tools that most homeowners already have. It can also help prolong the life of your air conditioner and furnace. It eliminates dust in the home and may improve air quality for your family.

Professional duct cleaning is worthwhile. Experts have tools that can reach deep into your ductwork. You wont be able to access all of your ducts with DIY cleaning.

Additionally, duct cleaning companies can identify and remedy potential issues in your ductwork, including leaks or blockages.

Duct leaks and obstructions can damage your overall HVAC system without immediate attention. They may also result in increased utility bills.

Cleaning your air ducts yourself is also beneficial. You can do a DIY cleaning between professional cleanings to keep your system running smoothly.

Connect me with an HVAC pro to clean my ducts.

Cleaning your air ducts yourself is a simple process involving tools you probably own already. The job may take several hours, depending on the size of your home and the number of air registers.

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. These include:

You may also choose to invest in:

If you have visible ductwork (in your attic or crawlspace, for example), lightly tap the outside with the handle of your cleaning brush. This will help loosen up dust and dirt.

Turn your thermostat to fan and on. Let it run this way for a few minutes. The air will push any dust closer to the registers where you can reach it for cleaning.

The simplest way to make sure everything is off is via your electrical box. Turn off the breakers associated with your HVAC equipment, including the furnace and AC condenser.

Switch your thermostat to off as well.

They may simply pop out. Or you may have to unscrew them first. Once the grates are off, cover the vent opening with a paper towel. If you have vents on a ceiling or a wall, you can use painters tape to secure the paper towel.

Covering the vent opening with a paper towel will prevent dust and debris from entering your rooms as you clean.

If you have different size grates, use a Sharpie to mark the inside with a number. Write the same number somewhere you can see it within the vent. This way, youll be able to easily match the grate to the correct vent later on.

Make sure you also remove and clean the grate on your air return. Its typically larger than the other grates around your home.

If your grates are plastic or metal, load them all into your dishwasher (top shelf for plastic) and clean them that way. Ensure theyre completely dry before replacing them.

If your grates are wooden or another material thats not dishwasher safe, clean them in the sink. Run cold water over them and scrub the dirt and dust off. Dry them immediately to prevent warping.

Start with one vent in your home. Remove the paper towel cover.

Insert your cleaning brush and jiggle it around to knock off anything stuck to the insides of the vent like spiderwebs or dust bunnies. We recommend using a toilet brush because of its long brush handle. But devote the brush to vent cleaning only. Dont use a brush youve already used to clean the toilet ().

Insert your vacuum wand into the vent as deep as it will go. Vacuum out all debris.

Using a dampened rag or paper towel, wipe out the inside of the vent as far as you can reach. You can use tap water or your favorite multipurpose cleaner.

Re-cover the vent with a paper towel when you finish. Continue this step until youve cleaned all the vents in your house.

Take out the filter in your air return. Throw it away.

Use your cleaning brush, vacuum, and paper towels to clean out the air return. Only go as far as you can safely reach.

Replace the filter with a fresh new one.

Once your grates are clean and dry, remove the paper towel covering each vent. Replace the grates. You may need to use a screwdriver to secure them.

Lots of dust accumulates in this area. To access it, remove the cover on your furnace. You may need to unscrew it with a screwdriver.

Take the furnace filter out and dispose of it. Use your cleaning brush to remove cobwebs and other stuck-on dirt from the compartment.

Vacuum out the blower compartment with your hose attachment. Then clean it out with a damp paper towel. Again, you can use plain water or your favorite multipurpose cleaner. If you can reach the furnace fan, clean that as well.

Replace the filter with a new one. Close and secure the furnace cover.

Check out our step-by-step guide for cleaning your air conditioner.

Enjoy your fresh ductwork!

Sound like too much work? You can always call a pro to get your ductwork spic-and-span.

Connect me with a local HVAC expert.

Keeping your air ducts clean reduces the number of allergens circulating in your home. This includes pet dander, pollen, and dust.

Sometimes, rodents and birds can make their way into your ductwork. Dust and debris provide good nest-building materials for them. Clean air ducts are inhospitable those pests will leave and find shelter elsewhere.

Additionally, air ducts can host insect infestations. These are much less likely to happen when your ducts are clean and dry.

Clean, sealed ductwork keeps mold out. If your ducts are dirty with leaky joints, mold can flourish.

Mold inhalation is a potential health hazard. And it smells bad.

Dont attempt to clean your air ducts yourself if you suspect mold growing in your ductwork. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends hiring a professional for HVAC mold removal.

Clogged ducts make your HVAC equipment work harder than it needs to. Your system can function at max performance with clean air ducts, thus reducing your utility bills.

You may also save money by proactively finding and fixing potential furnace and AC repair issues in the cleaning process.

Maintenance is necessary to keep your HVAC system at its best. Duct cleaning should be part of your regular AC maintenance.

Be sure to schedule HVAC system checkups every year. We recommend having your ductwork cleaned professionally every 3-5 years. Between those appointments, clean your air ducts yourself to ensure your HVAC equipment lasts as long as possible.

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Extraction Canopy Cleaning

The complete Extraction Canopy is cleaned. The canopy grease traps & canopy gutters are cleaned. All leaks on the canopy are sealed.

The filters are removed & cleaned. New replacement filters can be supplied if filters are broken or missing.Please note: The filter system in an important part of the system. The filter back serves as the immediate barrier against the possibility of a fire & determines how much grease is deposited onto the fan and into the duct. Filters must be replaced if missing / broken or mesh type. (Must be stainless steel type filters).

The grease is removed from the vertical & horizontal duct. All leaks are sealed.

Vent Care will check & clean the fan motor, blades, fan housing, outlet & weather cowl. The efficiency (airflow) will be tested on completion of the clean.Cleaning the fan will increase the extraction efficiency & prevent it from burning out.

Vent Care will issue a cleaning certificate on completion of the service, stating the date of the service, the service procedure & the next due date. These certificates are required by Fire Departments, Health Departments & Insurance companies for inspection purposes & in the event of a fire starting in the kitchen.

Please note: Vent Care offers a breakdown service which includes fan repairs & fan replacements. We also offer a three (3) month guarantee against grease leaks.

Kitchen Extraction Canopy Systems are extremely dangerous fire hazards. They are cleaned, serviced & maintained to reduce the possibility of fire in the kitchen. A regular clean & service increases safety in the kitchen, reduces the risk of fire & improves general hygiene levels. Cleaning & servicing Kitchen Canopy Extraction Systems also increases the extraction fans life & improves extraction efficiency, thereby reducing kitchen temperature.

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Saskatchewan residents and businesses are encouraged to check their properties for damage after the recent hit of cold weather.

Winter has proved its not done with the province just yet, with wind chills that dropped this week into the -40s.

Some things warrant immediate investigation before things turn catastrophic in some cases, said Jim Mandeville, senior vice-president, large-loss at First Onsite Property Restoration. Prevention is the best medicine here.

First Onsite said home or building owners need to be looking for:

0:35Saskatoon homeowners should watch plumbing red flags during extreme cold periods: restoration expert

The most common is frozen pipes, said Mandeville. Its frozen faucets, frozen fire sprinklers.

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He said that oftentimes, commercial buildings arent built like a home and are more susceptible to frigid temperatures.

The number one thing that we are always worried about with this extreme cold is the plumbing.

Mandeville noted that people going on vacation should have someone checking in on their home or building every few days to see if anything is out of the ordinary.

This could save some money for homeowners in the long run.

If these things leak while youre in Mexico for a week on vacation and your house sits wet and freezes solid into a giant icicle, its going to be a big nightmare for us to clean it up for you, Mandeville explained.

First Onsite is stressing urgency if people notice a drip in their house or a slow faucet.

1:21Extreme cold warning issued for most of Saskatchewan

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