AmeriSpec Inspection Services of London

Taking care of your plumbing system will help to prevent leaks, clogs and costly repairs. But what should you be searching for when you checking it out? Renovation Find has created a great blog with 4 plumbing maintenance tips to help ensure your plumbing is always working in tip top shape! For instance, did you know that decreased water pressure in your shower or sink could actually mean you have a water leak or clog somewhere in your drains? Read the blog to know what to look for, and what might be a sign of a bigger problem. #diy

Wish-Cycling is the idea that something can be recycled, even when you're not entirely sure that it's recyclable. While the intentions are often good, the act can lead to recycling contamination, potentially making an entire stream of recycled materials end up in a landfill instead of being properly reused. So what items should you avoid recycling? Budget Dumpster writes to avoid recycling plastic bags, scrap metal, takeout boxes, lids or caps on glass bottles, and hazardous or bio-hazardous materials. Certain towns have different rules, so be sure to check what's allowed to be recycled before something ends up in the blue bin when it doesn't belong.

In honour of #BlackHistoryMonth, it's important to look at the accomplishments of some of the greatest black figures in history. Did you know you can visit the House Museums of important black figures such as Frederick Douglass, one of the most important voices in the battle against slavery, legendary musician Louis Armstrong, and Alexander Twilight, believed to be the first African-American person ever to receive a degree from a college or university in the United States? You can check out more of the homes at the list below. If you'd like to donate to any of the museums, make sure to visit their websites.

We’re getting ready for 2021!

Thinking about buying a home as a first-time homeowner? NerdWallet has some great tips to consider when looking to purchase your first home that will help make things easier when making such an important decision. For instance, did you know that many places offer first-time homebuyer credits, assistance programs, and tax credits that can help with down payment assistance or lower interest rates? Check out the article to learn even more about what important steps you can take to make the process easier and more affordable! #homeowner

Just because it's icy cold, doesn't mean you should hold off buying a home in winter! The Spruce has 7 great reasons why you should consider buying a home at this time of year. From fewer buyers to seasonal price drops, read this insightful article to discover why winter might just be the best time to begin an exciting new chapter in your life. Point number 4 is so appealing, you'll want to start making arrangements immediatley.

From our AmeriSpec Canada family to yours, Happy New Year everybody! After what has been a challenging year, we want to say a special thank you to our clients for their ongoing relationship with us, and all our staff for their hard work, professionalism and support every day they come to work. To our valued clients and amazing staff, we hope that 2021 brings peace and prosperity to your entire family. #happynewyears

No matter what holiday you celebrate, everybody here at AmeriSpec Canada wants to say season's greetings! We thank our loyal valued clients for their continued support and our tireless staff for their first-class dedication and commitment. We hope your holiday season is one of cheerfulness, peace, and reflection. #happyholidays

Can you really cut down on energy storage while adding style simultaneously? Bob Vila has just the answer for your home - thermal curtains! These ingenious creations are made with multiple layers of fabric with sizable padding that prevents air from escaping into your home. They act as an extra layer of insulation that can prevent leaks and save you money in the long-run. Plus, these curtains don't sacrifice design in exchange for functionality. Ultimately, thermal curtains are still a fantastic solution for blocking sunlight, reducing noise, and of course, maintaining privacy.

With many people working from home for the foreseeable future, it’s important to have a space you can work in efficiently. It also needs to be a quiet, clean, well-lit space for meetings and video conferences. Using our tips, you won’t need to move homes or turn your spare bedroom into a home office. You can take the space you’re already using and implement some small changes to make it both professional and pretty. Read our latest blog here:

Did you know setting your water heater to an agreeable 120 degrees carries tremendous money-saving benefits? Ultimately, hot water heaters often come with a factory setting of 140 degrees. However, this often exceeds the temperature we actually need so why not take action today? Remember, for every 10 degrees you turn your heater down, you'll save 3% to 5% on your bill. Now there's some food for thought.

New Year's Resolution failed already? We have a new one you can truly stick to! If your toolbox is overflowing with tools you simply don't use, instead of selling them or throwing them out, check to see if a local charity will accept them instead. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Canada and KMS Tools & Equipment are among those who accept used tools for building a better tomorrow. You'll be amazed at your newfound toolbox space. Just make sure to check ahead, as some items cannot be accepted for safety reasons such as used ladders among other select items.

The Canadian government is going to release more information about the NEW energy program in early January 2021. We should all start planning for the NEW program now.

Holiday season is all about enjoyment but make sure it's never at the expense of proper safety precautions. That's right, we're talking about real Christmas trees and how to take care of them the right way. Did you know that the fresher the Christmas tree, the more resistant to ignition it is? Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs recommends you avoid using dryer trees and get in the habit of watering real Christmas trees daily. At this time of year, you should also regularly test your smoke alarms, use extension cords wisely, and blow out candles whenever you leave a room. By taking extra care this season, your entire family can enjoy a super memorable Christmas, accident-free. #safetytips

Fall's colder weather and darker evenings call for one thing. Switching the heating on and snuggling up on your sofa with a movie or sports. But regular cozy nights like these can take their toll, especially at this time of year. The issue? Heating bills that skyrocket from seemingly nowhere. Fortunately for you, these 5 everyday tips to slash heating bills from Today's Homeowner can help. Take it from us - tip number 3 will leave you wondering why you've put up with your current solution for so long!

Deer-ry me! You don't expect to come face to face with a magnificent mammal like this when attempting to inspect your average attic. This photo was submitted to us from AmeriSpec of Niagara Home Inspector, David Furry. Tell us what unique features make your house your home. Comment below! #homeinspections

If you're a homeowner, you're probably familiar with the term "annual maintenance checklist". Now cold season is coming, one item requiring your urgent attention is furnace tune-ups. It's the best way to ensure your heating system doesn't breakdown when you need it most. For as little as $100 to $150, you can get peace of mind over your furnace surviving November, December, and long beyond. Today's Homeowner explain what you can expect from your typical furnace tune-up appointment.

So you've decided to create an energy-efficient home. But what are the benefits of going green and how soon will you realize a difference? Ultimately, some things are instant and others are not. When you no longer feel drafts by your windows or notice rooms have even temperatures, upgrades like better insulation and air sealing are working. Other benefits are more long-term. For instance, lower energy bills and increased home value represent some of the secondary benefits of ...installing ENERGY STAR appliances or lighting. If you're wondering how to get started, book an AmeriSpec Home Energy Evaluation. Our Natural Resources Canada trained and licensed Home Energy Advisors will determine the major areas of current energy use and waste in your home. After that, they'll provide suggestions about the steps you could take to save hundreds of dollars a year.

Nowadays, first time homebuyers are more empowered than ever before. In the past, a quick handshake and swift viewing of a property may have been considered enough to say "we'll take it". Now, Infrared Thermography is helping homebuyers to make the best and most informed decisions possible. It might sound fancy but Infrared Thermography simply uses camera-like imaging to detect surface temperatures and problems not visible to the naked eye. Not only does this service ident...ify cold spots in homes, it can identify sources of mold, roof leaks and electrical issues too. Remember, AmeriSpec offers Infrared Thermography services at select franchises nationwide. When you're deciding whether to buy a home, take advantage of thermal imaging to make sure you get the full picture about a property's true condition, not just half of it. https://www.amerispec.ca/services/home-inspections/

November is Radon Action Month! Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the colourless, tasteless and odourless gas is impossible to detect without performing a radon test in your home. AmeriSpec has been an industry leader in performing various air quality tests, including radon tests, for over 30 years. Protect your family, your health and your home by booking a radon test with us today! #HomeInspection

Now fall is here, every Canadian homeowner is reaching for the thermostat to heat their homes during colder weather. But every time you reach for that square or rectangle on your wall, have you thought about the impact that the annual heating and cooling of your home is having on the environment? Well, according to The Canadian Real Estate Association/L'Association canadienne de l'immeuble, 17% of all energy used in Canada goes towards running our homes. This contributes ...to 14% of Canada's greenhouse gas (emissions). As our world becomes more and more environmentally conscious, the solution for many is making our homes more energy-efficient. It's not as difficult as you think either. From better insulation to installing ENERGY STAR appliances, learn what 7 energy-efficiency improvements you can make, and much more here. https://www.crea.ca//Homeowners-Guide_Energy-Efficiency_En See more

Plants can spruce up any home but some people are put off by regular maintenance. But listen up! Real Simple have curated this list of 16 low-maintenance indoor houseplants that'll survive all year-round. Not only can plants like the Chinese Evergreen, Moth Orchid, Maidenhair Fern and Moss Terrarium survive the upcoming winter, they can turn lackluster spaces into beautiful earthy areas. Tell us, which plants do you keep all year-round and recommend? Comment below.

Cycling has seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic. It's been a simple and effective way to get some fresh air while decreasing your carbon footprint too. But with colder weather coming, you'll need a handy spot to store your trusty two wheels during winter. Fear not, Bob Vila recommends the following options: - Hang bicycles from a bike hook. If you've got a small space, hooks can be an easy way to securely hang a bicycle against the wall. - Want to hang it flat a...gainst the wall? There are a number of horizontal mounts that can do the trick. - You can even store the bike in your home with a Gladiator Hook, that hangs from your ceiling! So, while it might seem like a chore to find space for your bike, keeping it securely stored and out of your entryways is the best way to get set for your spring rides.

You know those tricky jobs around the home. The ones you've been putting off. Well they just got a whole load easier! From painting walls to snaking a drain, Real Simple have you covered with some simple, easy-to-understand how-to guides. Soon, you'll discover that achieving that perfect fresh coat of paint means cleaning, using painter's tape, and priming. For fixing pesky holes in drywall, all you need is spackle and some matching paint. Remember, it's easy when you know how!

A leaky basement is a nightmare any time, especially now colder weather's on the way. Basements leak when the soil surrounding the foundation becomes loose, allowing water to percolate through. AmeriSpec's qualified inspectors can identify problems before they get much worse. This ensures leaks don't turn into expensive renovations. With over 30 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers, AmeriSpec is the industry leader when it comes to identifying problems in basements and foundations. Call 866-284-6010 for your quote today.

Fall is the time to give your home its annual physical before winter's harsh weather sets in. AmeriSpec offers services that can give you the peace of mind you need before icy weather rules. Whether you're a homeowner or a prospective buyer or seller, we can provide solutions that make preparing for winter that much easier. We provide everything from certified home inspections to home energy evaluations and healthy home services. AmeriSpec can help make the transition from summer to fall a pain-free experience for both your wallet and well-being. Be prepared and get a quote today.

AmeriSpec is your one-stop-shop for everything maintenance inspection-related. If you're a longtime homeowner, AmeriSpec can perform a thorough inspection that will determine any issues that need to be fixed - whether that's leaky roofs, deck issues, downspouts, and more. Now we're into fall, don't sleep on winter's arrival. An AmeriSpec maintenance inspection can help you identify any areas that need fixing before that famous Canadian snowfall hits and wreaks havoc. Call 866-284-6010 to book your inspection today.

We are proud to announce that AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Toronto West. Etobicoke & Mississauga and AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Muskoka, Parry Sound & Simcoe have partnered with One Tree Planted. An amazing non-profit organization helping global reforestation. AmeriSpec has pledged to plant one tree for every inspection completed.

Planning on adding a new coat of paint to your home? Unsure when's the best time to do it? Real Simple says outdoor paint jobs work best when it's 18-30 degrees Celsius. Now we're approaching fall, there's no better time to tackle this task. Warmer, humid conditions help bond colours to your favourite places, while colder temps make it harder for paint to stay put.

On first glance, you might think this photo of a wine serving tray was taken upside down. In reality, it's actually a super cool light fixture doubling up as storage for wine glasses. In all our years inspecting thousands of Canadian homes, we've uncovered some ultra unique home features just like this. This one came courtesy of AmeriSpec owner and operator, David Furry. What home features are you most proud of? Tell us about them in the comments below.

September 7 is Labour Day across Canada. A time where we all take a break from everyday life to celebrate the hard work Canadians put in throughout the work year. Labour Day was conceived to celebrate the achievement of workers, who vigorously fought for worker rights and better work conditions amidst the labour union movement. Remember, many services including the post office, government buildings and retail stores are closed today. Be sure to check ahead of time if you plan on running errands or going out. Tell us how you're celebrating Labour Day in the comments below.

For both new and longtime homeowners, having a functional sink is extremely important in a busy home. However, when your sink is clogged or has an issue, far too often we scramble to find important spare parts and instructions on how to fix it. Family Handyman recommends going back to basics. Simply take your sink's spare parts and instruction manuals, put them in a zip-top bag and hang them under your sink! That way, if a problem occurs, the solution is literally right under your nose sink!

Has spending so much time in your home helped you realize all the things you’d like to change about it? If you’re considering hiring a contractor to remodel, it’s important you know what to look for when choosing someone you can trust to get the job done. HomeAdvisor has compiled a helpful guide for hiring your contractor. They’ve even divided the advice into four categories: Value, Focus, Livability and Safety.

Do you love the idea of indoor/outdoor living but want to keep it protected from the elements? Check out this awesome, garage door like structure to quickly and beautifully turn your outdoor space indoors! What do you think? Would you install a wall like this? Let us know in the comments! : @platinumserieshomes

Who knew that even the animals of the great white north are avid hockey fans? This moose is rooting for the Maple Leafs. Who are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments! This fun photo comes to us from AmeriSpec Owner and Operator, Andrew Laroche.

A robotic lawn mower sure makes thing a whole lot easier! @andrew.laroche60 found this robot quietly going about his business of keeping a lawn in tip-top condition in his latest home inspection. Who else would love to pass on the sweaty chore to a robotic lawn mower?

Buying a home is an exciting process for anyone especially first-time home buyers. However, it’s so important that you understand the true condition and value of a home before you put an offer. Our team of certified professionals at AmeriSpec examine over 400 items within a home and present it to you in a complex and thorough AmeriSpec Report. Buy your first home with complete peace of mind, knowing they’ll be no surprises waiting for you.

A hot summer’s day calls for cold summer beverages. While a cooler provides an awesome way to keep contents cold, sometimes the ice just melts too darn quick! Before you blame your cooler, check out these awesome tips and tricks from Real Simple for how to keep ice from melting in your cooler. Turns out all you need is a little science! Read more here:

Did you know you’re supposed to aerate your lawn to maintain healthy grass? It allows your lawn to better absorb water, fertilizer and other amendments. If you’re wondering what other simple tricks you might be missing out on for a beautiful front yard, make sure you read @TodaysHomeownerMedia 's guide to the 9 biggest lawn care mistakes you might be making! With most of our days spent at home, it’s a wonderful time to make your space as beautiful as possible.

It’s much easier to make excuses not to do something than to simply put one foot in front of the other and start chipping away at the challenge of making your dreams come true.

For many, the thrill of investing in a fixer upper is a fun, exciting and profitable venture representing time well spent. Smart home improvements that add value often include those that save space - just like this ingenious set of kitchen stairs! And be honest, did you expect stairs when this homeowner reached for her built-in kitchen unit? Got your own bespoke gadgets at home? Share your pride by telling us about them in the comments below. : Hideaway Solutions

When looking to impress your realtor, make sure it's renovate rather than reno-hate! There's nothing wrong with turning an outdated kitchen into a stylish, functional cooking space. What is awry however is making impulsive improvements that do nothing for boosting value and everything for making your realtor cringe. From personalized paint jobs that are way too bold to built-in blunders like oversized fish tanks that are expensive to remove, click below to view 13 more mishaps as curated by HGTV Canada.

Before you turn your air conditioning on this summer, have you made sure it’s working as efficiently as it should? Our team at AmeriSpec offers Energy Assessments to homes across the country using the EnerGuide for Houses and Energy Star Programs. Our advisors will inspect your home and provide you with a certification and valuable information on how you can make your home more efficient. Save money with an energy efficient home! Give us a call today to book your appointment.

Our team at AmeriSpec want to take a moment to wish everyone a VERY Happy Canada Day! We’re so thankful to be living in this beautiful country. We hope everyone has a chance to get outside and celebrate with loved ones, as safely as you can.

Looking to be productive during self-isolation while checking some goals off your to-do list? If you’ve spent the last couple months shaking your head at the state of your garage, it’s time to stop putting it off and tackle it tomorrow morning! Family Handyman has created a super helpful guide to assist you in organizing and maximizing your garage storage space. The best part? It takes less than a day to complete!

Your home is your castle, there’s nowhere you could feel more comfortable. Make it your own.

As the weather warms up and we’re all spending more time in the backyard, many of us are pondering outdoor renos. If you’re looking to add a patio cover to give your backyard some shade, make sure to check out The Spruce’s 50 stylish covered patio ideas. The results are endless and all of them beautiful. Remember when adding any major outdoor structure, it’s important to consult an architect or landscape architect to make sure your building complies with city codes and is safe and secure. Let us know in the comments which ones are your favourite! We love #30.

Attention Realtors! How many of these crazy cool custom-built contraptions have you stumbled upon over the years? These rare, but very cool storage systems allow you keep your wine properly stored underground and in times of self-isolation can even provide extra space to wander. Who wouldn’t want to take their pick from a wall of reds after a hard day’s work? It truly is a hidden gem, a home feature for aficionados of the finest wines. Instagram: @spanish.cellars

During these times of physical distancing, looks like these two houses missed the memo. Their rooflines actually touch!

With people spending much more time indoors at home than normal, it’s important to ensure that the air you’re breathing is quality air. Airborne particles and chemicals, mould, asbestos, lead, and radon, are all unseen threats that can cause allergy and asthma symptoms, respiratory ailments, irritations, headaches and fatigue. We offer thorough investigations by certified inspectors of all environmental threats within your home through our Indoor Air Quality Service. Once we’ve done the inspection, you’ll receive a comprehensive report detailing contaminant levels and recommendations for improvement. Call us today to book your appointment, so you can breathe easy, knowing your family is protected.

Canada Together is a national initiative that aims to provide important information to Canadians who need it. Their objective is to inspire, educate and engage Canadians during these unprecedented times. They offer information and inspiration on how to remain productive during quarantine, financial assistance resources, different games to play with the family, different acts of kindness happening across the country, and so much more. #CanadaTogether truly shines a light on the best the country has to offer during the pandemic.

In a time where finding disinfecting wipes at the grocery store feels like finding a needle in a haystack, HGTV Canada has an environmentally conscious way of making your own! For the reusable wipes, you'll need water dish soap, rubbing alcohol, white vinegar, thin cloths, and one sealable container. From there, simply add the ingredients in the jar and add essential oils (optional). Add the cloth and seal the jar! Now you have reusable wipes for your family! That was easy, wasn't it?

Canadians stick together, even in self-isolation. The Globe and Mail documented Canadians in a non-profit group called Project Northern Lights , who are using their skills to make medical supplies for those in need during this crisis. Developers, engineers, and designers across the country are fighting the pandemic as much-needed supplies have been made and donated to local health networks. Canadian businesses liken Inksmith have shifted focus from educational technology to become a face-shield manufacturer. There are stories all across the country of Canadians helping Canadians. No matter how big the gesture, it's incredible to see people banding together to help and make things safer for everyone.

Instagram can be a great way to find home renovation inspiration! The Spruce has found some of the best home renovation Insta accounts that are sure to keep you inspired! Check them out here:

Surprises aren't always a good thing. Surprise pests popping up in your house can lead to serious damage. Terminix Canada has come up with some major DON'Ts when it comes to taking care of pests: - Squishing bugs doesn't mean they're gone for good. Sometimes, it's better to track where the pests are coming from and attack any potential gaps. - Different pests require different traps. It's best to research what is the most efficient way of dealing with unwanted bugs. Some pest-specific traps work better than others! - Check your pets. Your cat or dogs can attract pests, so make sure they're treated for fleas, ticks or parasites. You'll be glad you did.

Stuck at home and in desperate need of a project to tackle? Bored enough to try to DIY? Don't become a disaster story! Start with these easy fixes and work your way up to mastery. Why not try out Family Handyman 's 12 DIY ideas for people new to home improvement. - Replace a window screen that's seen better days. This DIY project is easy and immediately rewarding. It requires little skill and you will immediately feel the difference by having less bugs flying around your hom...e. - Re-caulking your bathroom. Another DIY that has an immediate payoff is re-caulking cracked, clumpy or uneven lines on your showers and/or bathtubs. - Install a wall-mounted television. Modernize your home by installing your TV against your wall. It looks great and will create even more room in your home. There are tons of ways to stay productive at home with these beginner DIY projects. Who knows, maybe when this quarantine is over you will be a full-on pro DIYer!

To all nurses, the hard work you do does not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything. Happy Nurses Day! #nursesweek

Spring is the perfect time to start maintenance tasks before it gets too hot, just wait until the snow has fully disappeared. By tackling these projects suggested by ThinkInsure.ca now, you'll be in perfect shape as summer approaches. - Check your air conditioners and furnace! You may need an AC to cool you down! Make sure your filter is changed and everything is working as it should. - Check gutters for damage and ensure downspouts are pointed away from the home. - It's i...mportant to check the seals around windows and doors. Winter can lead to cracked seals, causing potential water damage and an increased energy bill. It might seem like extra work, but by maintaining your interior and exterior, you will surely have a more pleasant spring and summer. Less mess and stress means more time to relax!

Don't let a tiny balcony stop you from enjoying the benefits of a beautiful garden. CBC has some great tips to turn your apartment's outdoor space into a place of pure bliss and relaxation. - Before laying out your garden space, make sure to factor in where natural light and wind are coming from. Nobody wants their brand-new garden to be blown away after putting in the effort. - Bigger is better! Investing in bigger containers will make things much easier even in a limited... space. Small containers can make things seem immediately crowded. - Grow vertically! With limited space to work with, it's important to make sure you maximize space when growing plants. Staying vertical and covering areas with things like hanging baskets or climbing vines will help you get the most out of your space. Your balcony can be a garden paradise and escape during your self-quarantine. With these tips, you can turn your small space into one you'll never want to leave - even when the quarantine is over.

When you're going through rough waters remember that difficult times can strengthen us.

A Mother's Day gift idea!

It's true, the spread of COVID-19 means people are spending more time indoors than ever before. But, that shouldn't stop you from maximizing the potential of your own outdoor spaces. Martha Stewart has offered some great tips to keep your outdoor area up to snuff. Whether it's making sure your tools are in good shape, preparing new garden beds for plants, or starting a brand new compost pile, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor area bright. Better Homes & Gardens has also has a useful checklist to freshen up your backyard. Make the most of your time outside and clear your checklist!

AmeriSpec Canada has always believed in the safety of home and right now staying home is the safest thing for everyone. But we know that buying and selling a home doesn't necessarily stop, even in these uncertain times. This is why home inspections have been deemed an Essential Service. Our inspectors are committed to the highest standards of quality during inspections and we bring that same level of commitment to preventing the spread of COVID-19. We're taking a custom appro...ach in each community, depending on the best practices and guidelines outlined by local health officials, and are constantly working to update our approach as time goes on. If you have any questions about how our franchises are operating at this time, call AmeriSpec Canada at 866-284-6010 or contact your local franchise for details. There’s a light at the end of this tunnel, but for now, we thank every one of you for doing your part to help stop the spread. We are all in this together.

What if we told you you could kill time and make your home look fresh at the same time? That's right, Curbed has curated 21 easy home projects that anybody can achieve. From restyling your bookshelves to moisturizing your wooden cutting boards, these everyday tasks won't only keep you occupied but leave you feeling mighty proud too! Why not feel really accomplished by tackling all 21?

Stuck at home with nothing to do? This is the perfect time to check off those pesky home projects you've been procrastinating over. You know - the ones that take too long when you'd rather be out enjoying the sun. Now is your chance to repaint some walls or your outdoor furniture, really scrub your deck or replace cabinet hardware. Not only will you be filling your days with rewarding tasks, you'll clear off that honey-do list and leave your future weekends open for golf, cottages or whatever you like doing all summer long!

Enough is enough! You've been bombarded with takeout discounts, gig suggestions and banking updates. It's all gotten too much. What now? Maintaining that dreaded email inbox of course! Now you're spending more time at home, tidying up is more of a necessity but don't stop at your kitchen and bedroom. Sorting a cluttered inbox can actually be a great form of self-therapy. When life calls for the unsubscribe button and getting unread emails down to 0, check out these awesome tips from Lifehacker. You'll never feel more satisfied to see the number zero!

Curious about how COVID-19 has affected getting your home inspected? Reg Deck, owner of AmeriSpec Inspection Services of Peterborough and Kingston shares his thoughts with Canadian Underwriter on the changes his business is seeing, the decline in home listings and what new procedures are being implemented during the pandemic.

You want to boost the market value of your home. You want the highest price - it's only natural. But before you start making improvements, it's important to be aware of costly luxuries that aren't always worth your while. From elaborate landscaping to installing new floors, HGTV Canada has created a list of 25 renovations that you're better off steering clear of.

Check out this awesome idea! During these times wouldn’t this be a great way to get out and enjoy some fresh air while staying in? Thanks Ramin Sheibani (via IG: @gentlemansleague) for sharing this cool home addition! #stayhome

It's true, some people love working from home while for others, it's a struggle. Everybody can agree that staying productive is important. That's why we could all benefit from some efficiency tips. Whether it's establishing a particular spot to conquer your home 9 to 5 or replacing that uncomfortable dining room chair with something more ergonomic, these PCWorld pointers are just what you need right now.

Even on hard days, you know there are better ones coming. If you can do your part in staying home, you make things safer for the people who can’t. #staysafe

Looking for something new to do? Speed up a slow day by finally sorting your taxes. Sure, the original April 30 deadline is now void with June 1 and August 31 representing the new dates for individuals and business owners to file without penalty. However, ticking another thing off your to-do list is a great way to stay motivated at this time. To help you get started, check out this handy list of the best free tax return software for Canadians.

You've heard about toilet paper shortages but how about a clogged toilet and no plunger in sight? The stuff of nightmares, right? Before panicking, Family Handyman has some tips to make your self-isolation struggle a little easier. The answer? Dish soap, hot water and wire hangers. Confused? All will make sense after reading these 6 handy life hacks.

So you now have much more free time on your hands. What next? Well, there's no better time to finally tackle that pesky drywall damage! First, you'll need a few materials including a putty knife, mesh patch, sandpaper, colour-matched paint, and spackle. If your trip to the garage ends fruitless, remember these can all be ordered online and delivered right to your door. Once you have all the tools in your armoury, House Beautiful suggests patching drywall is as easy as 1, 2, 3!