We entered into our Primrose project knowing that we would be working closely with the homeowners to rethink their family’s home in a way unique to them. They definitely knew that they wanted to open up the space as much as possible. This renovation design begun in the entrance by eliminating most of the hallway wall, and replacing the stair baluster with glass to further open up the space. Not much was changed in ways of layout. The kitchen now opens up to the outdoor cooking area with bifold doors which makes for great flow when entertaining. The outdoor area has a beautiful smoker, along with the bbq and fridge. This will make for some fun summer evenings for this family while they enjoy their new pool. For the actual kitchen, our clients chose to go with Dekton for the countertops. What is Dekton? Dekton employs a high tech process which represents an accelerated version of the metamorphic change that natural stone undergoes when subjected to high temperatures and pressure over thousands of years. It is a crazy cool material to use. It is resistant to heat, fire, abrasions, scratches, stains and freezing. Because of these features, it really is the ideal material for kitchens. Above the garage, the homeowners wanted to add a more relaxed family room. This room was a basic addition, above the garage, so it didn’t change the square footage of the home, but definitely added a good amount of space. For the exterior of the home, they refreshed the paint and trimmings with new paint, and completely new landscaping for both the front and back. We added a pool to the spacious backyard, that is flanked with one side natural grass and the other, turf. As you can see, this backyard has many areas for enjoying and entertaining.

Incredible veining on this granite countertop. We were so happy with this piece! Choosing materials with a discerning eye makes a huge difference to the renovation you'll live in for years. When selecting materials watch for unusual pieces of wood, interesting offcuts, and unique features within otherwise standard selections. Working with natural products means that chemical reactions and growing conditions from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of years ago become the glory of your home world: what a gift! (Calgary Photos)

Trees and shrubs are a big part of our local environment. Some are intended to bear fruit, while others are there simply for aesthetics. Of course, some trees are planted to help conserve the environment, and some started to grow on their own. Regardless, there are many facts about trees that you may not know. Five Star Tree Services has put together a list of a few of those facts that you may find surprising! Trees Live Longer Than Anything Else Of all living things, trees can survive the longest on this earth. Some species of trees can survive for several thousands of years. For example, the baobab tree can thrive for thousands of years after it has reached maturity. Trees Have a Godly Connection There are many religions in the world, and in some, it is a common belief that certain trees are homes to the gods. Many of these older traditions and beliefs are currently less prevalent, but there has always been a strong connection between trees and deities. Cottonwood Seeds Stay Airborne for Days Most trees reproduce via seeds. While most tree seeds fall to the ground, or are carried off by animals, the cottonwood tree seed flies through the air for days before landing. Trees Promote Rainfall Mature trees take moisture from the ground and release it into the atmosphere. This then triggers precipitation. The result is more rain in the area where trees are abundant. The best way to prevent or derail desertification is by planting trees in an area. There are Tree Genders This may seem like a sound bite for likes and shares, but some trees have gendered scientific classifications. There are both male and female trees. One great example is the pine tree. The female trees produce seeds in the pine cones, while the male trees shed pollen from their cones to fertilize the female cones. The wind makes the magic happen, which results in a bevy of baby pine cone trees. The Rings Show Its Age Very few methods exist for pinning down the age of a tree. Carbon dating is a complex method of ageing a tree, but you can also count the rings on a cut tree to determine its age. We don’t suggest you cut down a tree just to count the rings, though! Certain Tree Parts Grow Seasonally Unlike people, trees grow in separated sections. The trunk will grow in the summer, while the foliage will thrive in the spring. The roots tend to spread during the fall and winter when the rest of the tree is dormant. Trees Have Their Own Self-Defense Methods If a tree is invaded by insects, it will flood its leaves with phenolics chemicals. This is a compound that discourages insects from eating their foliage. The tree also sends off signals to other trees about the attack so that they can prepare their defenses as well. How We Can Help Here at Five Star Tree Services, we’re passionate about what we do. Our team provides high-quality and affordable tree care and maintenance, including pruning and tree removal services in Toronto. If you require help with the trees on your property or have any questions for our experts, give us a call at (416) 990-3355.

A friend noticed a damp, musty smell coming from her living room fireplace the week after a February thaw. When she called a masonry technician from Superior Chimney, to take a look, and found that water had been working its way behind the bricks for years. What started as a small crack now meant her chimney needed structural repairs before she could safely use it again. Chimney repairs are any work done to restore the structural and weatherproof condition of a chimney. This can include mortar joint repair, brick replacement, crown repair, flue repair, and cap or flashing replacement. Most Chicagoland homeowners discover the need for chimney repairs often times after winter, when the freeze and thaw cycles have already done its damage. Uncovering the symptoms early is the best way to keep chimney repairs down. Let’s discuss how that can be done. Why Chicagoland Weather Is Especially Hard on Chimneys Chicagoland has some of the most polarized weather. One day it’s a blizzard and the next week hot, humid and 100 degrees. That swing in weather conditions and temperatures are the real reasons why chimney repairs are needed. When moisture from humid and rainy days’ soak into brick and mortar and then freezes, it expands. As it begins to thaw, the materials contract. Repeat that cycle dozens of times in a single Illinois winter and even solid masonry in the chimney starts to crack, spall, and separate from the joints holding it together. This is called the freeze thaw cycle. We’ve talked about it many times over the years, and it continues to be the single biggest reason homes need chimney repairs more often than homes in milder climates. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the leading nonprofit certifying body for chimney professionals in the United States, notes that water intrusion is one of the most damaging and most preventable problems. If the problem is left to mature, it affects more than the appearance. It compromises the structure itself. What Do Chimney Repairs Involve? Not every chimney problem requires the same fix. Chimney repairs generally fall into a few categories. Understanding the difference, helps homeowners have a more informed conversation with the expert technician. Mortar joint repair or tuckpointing. This involves removing deteriorated mortar between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar, matched to the original color and texture as closely as possible. Brick replacement. When individual bricks have spalled, meaning the face has cracked or popped off from trapped moisture, those bricks are removed and replaced. Crown and cap repair. The crown is the concrete slab at the very top of the chimney. Cracks both big and small let water directly into the chimney flue. Chimney crown repair is often one of the most urgent forms of chimney repairs. Flashing repair. Flashing is the barrier where the chimney meets the roofline. Loose, damaged or poorly installed flashing is a common source for water leaks. The roof gets the blame as it is the largest piece that covers the house. However, it certainly can be the overlooked chimney. Flue and liner repair. Cracked flue tiles or damaged liners affect how safely a chimney vents smoke and combustion gases. When to Know a Chimney Needs Repair Most chimney damage shows up as small, easy to dismiss way. Let’s take a look at the following list. Be sure to print this out and keep it handy so if/when something happens, you know what to look for. • Water stains near the fireplace or on the ceiling • A brownish stain on the wall around your fireplace, or a stain on the ceiling near an exterior chimney. This means water is getting in somewhere it should not. • Crumbling or missing mortar • If you can see gaps between bricks, or mortar that flakes off when you touch it • A leaning or visibly shifting chimney • A chimney that appears to pull away from the house, even slightly, could indicate a structural issue • White staining on the brick (efflorescence) • Chalky white residue left behind as water evaporates out of the masonry. It is a visible sign that moisture is moving through brick • Rusted damper or firebox components • Metal parts inside a fireplace that are rusting are a strong indicator that moisture is present • Debris in the fireplace • Small chunks of brick, mortar, or tile landing in the firebox What are the Various Types of Chimney Repair? This is a compiled list of chimney repairs so you can be aware of what to look for. If you have any questions, contact us directly at 877-244-6349. Homeowners who schedule chimney repairs at the first sign of trouble typically spend far less than those who wait until water damage reaches the interior of the home. This is a great reason to contact Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349. Why an Annual Inspection Matters More Than People Think The CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association both recommend that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected at least once a year, whether or not the fireplace gets used. This recommendation exists because damage does not take a break just because a chimney sits without any use. According to data stated by the CSIA, chimney related fires still contribute to tens of thousands of residential fires across the United States each year, and a large share of those incidents can be traced back to deferred maintenance. An annual chimney inspection is what catches the small mortar crack or the hairline crown crack before it turns into a repair bill. Hiring the Right Company for Chimney Repairs Not every company who offers chimney repair work has the certified training to diagnose a problem correctly. CSIA certification is the most widely recognized credential in the industry, and it requires technicians to study chimney physics, venting systems, and fire codes. After the studies, the new technician needs to pass an exam and agree to a professional code of ethics. When you call, be sure to ask: Are your technicians CSIA certified, and can I verify that certification? Will you show me photos or video of the damage before starting work? Does the estimate distinguish between cosmetic repair and structural repair? At Superior Chimney, we welcome these and other of your questions. How Chimney Repairs Affect Insurance and Resale A chimney in poor condition can complicate a home sale or an insurance claim. Home inspectors routinely report on visible mortar loss, leaning chimneys, or missing chimney caps. Some insurers will request proof of repair before renewing a policy on an older home. Addressing chimney repairs proactively protects more than curb appeal. It protects the sale timeline and the claims history associated to the property. Frequently Asked Questions How often should a Chicago area chimney be inspected? At least once a year, per CSIA and NFPA guidance, regardless of how often the fireplace is used. Can chimney repairs be done in winter? Some interior repairs can happen in cold weather, but most masonry repair requires temperatures consistently above freezing. Spring and fall are the most common repair times in the Chicago area. Is tuckpointing the same thing as chimney repair? Tuckpointing is one type of chimney repair, focused on replacing deteriorated mortar joints. Does homeowners insurance cover chimney repairs? It depends. Sudden damage from a storm may be covered, while gradual deterioration from lack of maintenance typically is not. So Finally… Taking care of your home includes a chimney. Just because you don’t see it every day, doesn’t mean things aren’t happening. Be sure to get a chimney inspection done once per year by a certified and credible company such as Superior Chimney to take care of the issues. Contact us today by calling 877-244-6349.

As part of a complete condo renovation, 24 Construction & Design took this master bathroom in a streamlined direction, pairing traditional materials with modern, clean-edge design. For example marble, a traditional bath material used for thousands of years, appears in the form of minimalist floating vanity supported by a steel frame. The opposite wall is anchored by a contemporary take on the classic farmhouse tub. Nineteenth century style subway tile lines the walls of the frameless glass shower — a 21st century must-have — while small hex tile, a bathroom staple for over a hundred years, unifies the white walls and floors into one seamless relaxing expanse.

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary galley kitchen remodel in Hyderabad with flat-panel cabinets, beige cabinets, solid surface countertops, stainless steel appliances and an island

Pool - contemporary pool idea in Toronto with a bbq area

Gillian Jackson
Inspiration for a small contemporary l-shaped dark wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen remodel in Toronto with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, no island and black backsplash

Elegant living room photo in Singapore with white walls, no fireplace and no tv

Inspiration for a contemporary open concept gray floor living room remodel in Edmonton with gray walls

We have years of experience roofing contractors in Thousand Oaks and have the knowledge and skills needed to cover installation of windows and solar systems in Thousand Oaks, this involves the newer black solar panels with a battery installations too. Roof, Windows and Solar in Thousand Oaks, CA - https://visionhomeremodeling.com/

Photography by www.mikechajecki.com
Example of a large transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor open concept kitchen design in Toronto with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white backsplash, an island, stone slab backsplash, marble countertops and stainless steel appliances

Fotografía: Raul Candales Estilismo: Susana Ocaña
Living room - large eclectic formal and enclosed concrete floor living room idea in Barcelona with white walls, a wood stove and no tv

We have years of experience roofing contractors in Thousand Oaks and have the knowledge and skills needed to cover installation of windows and solar systems in Thousand Oaks, this involves the newer black solar panels with a battery installations too. Roof, Windows and Solar in Thousand Oaks, CA - https://visionhomeremodeling.com/

As part of a complete condo renovation, 24 Construction & Design took this master bathroom in a streamlined direction, pairing traditional materials with modern, clean-edge design. For example marble, a traditional bath material used for thousands of years, appears in the form of minimalist floating vanity supported by a steel frame. The opposite wall is anchored by a contemporary take on the classic farmhouse tub. Nineteenth century style subway tile lines the walls of the frameless glass shower — a 21st century must-have — while small hex tile, a bathroom staple for over a hundred years, unifies the white walls and floors into one seamless relaxing expanse.

Ryan Fung
Bathroom - small contemporary master white tile and subway tile marble floor bathroom idea in Toronto with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, an integrated sink and solid surface countertops

We have years of experience roofing contractors in Thousand Oaks and have the knowledge and skills needed to cover installation of windows and solar systems in Thousand Oaks, this involves the newer black solar panels with a battery installations too. Roof, Windows and Solar in Thousand Oaks, CA - https://visionhomeremodeling.com/

As part of a complete condo renovation, 24 Construction & Design took this master bathroom in a streamlined direction, pairing traditional materials with modern, clean-edge design. For example marble, a traditional bath material used for thousands of years, appears in the form of minimalist floating vanity supported by a steel frame. The opposite wall is anchored by a contemporary take on the classic farmhouse tub. Nineteenth century style subway tile lines the walls of the frameless glass shower — a 21st century must-have — while small hex tile, a bathroom staple for over a hundred years, unifies the white walls and floors into one seamless relaxing expanse.

As part of a complete condo renovation, 24 Construction & Design took this master bathroom in a streamlined direction, pairing traditional materials with modern, clean-edge design. For example marble, a traditional bath material used for thousands of years, appears in the form of minimalist floating vanity supported by a steel frame. The opposite wall is anchored by a contemporary take on the classic farmhouse tub. Nineteenth century style subway tile lines the walls of the frameless glass shower — a 21st century must-have — while small hex tile, a bathroom staple for over a hundred years, unifies the white walls and floors into one seamless relaxing expanse.