K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists, discuss if concrete foundation repairs are permanent.
Remember that not every crack, chip, or spalling is the same, and there is never such a thing as a “permanent” solution to any foundation damage! Changing soil conditions, extreme weather conditions, and a new construction project near your home can result in future foundation damage. Adding to your home’s weight, such as an attached sunroom without underpinning or otherwise strengthening a foundation can also mean eventual damage.
However, some foundation repair methods are more durable than others and should last for several decades. To better understand your foundation repair choices and their overall longevity, review below:
CONCRETE PIERS
Concrete piers are often installed during the pre-construction phase of homebuilding, and these help support a foundation as it’s being poured and then setting and curing. These piers are also used for sinking foundations, lifting them up and providing added support. Concrete piers are durable and last for decades.
STEEL PIERS
Steel piers are similar to concrete piers but are easier to work with and can be installed more readily; concrete requires pouring while fresh, which can require disturbing far more landscaping and lawn than simple steel piers. Steel is also more impervious to moisture and added weight than concrete piers.
HELICAL PIERS
Helical piers look somewhat like giant screws and are screwed deeply into the earth, section by section if necessary. They are screwed into the ground until it’s proven that the area can properly hold the required bearing capacity of the structure. Helical piles are a relatively quick, economical foundational solution that provides stability and strength to foundations. They especially come in handy when there is structural damage to a foundation.
POLY LIFT
A poly lift is also a popular way of repairing a sinking foundation; this includes injecting special polyurethane foam into the ground, under the broken foundation section. As the foam dries and hardens, it lifts the foundation into place and restores it to a level and even position. This poly foam doesn’t deteriorate or weaken over time, so it’s typically considered a permanent foundation repair solution.
CONCRETE SEALANTS AND EPOXY
Foundation crack sealants and epoxies help fill in cracks and holes that may appear in the foundation of a home. These cracks can result from many factors, including shifting soil, settling foundations, or even water erosion. Foundation crack sealant lasts for approximately 5-7 years.
While Steve has discussed are concrete foundation repairs permanent, it really depends on what is going on around your home and its foundation. We recommend if you have any concerns,
call Steve.
K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists, discuss concrete foundation cracks, and what they mean.
When you see a crack in your concrete slab or wall, generally your first assumption is something has been done wrong–but that’s not always the case. Concrete cracks are very common, some are even inevitable, but let’s review them:
BASEMENT FLOOR CRACKS
Floor cracks in concrete slabs are relatively common and usually not worrisome on a structural level. They should be repaired to prevent common issues like moisture, insects, and damage from seeping through. When floor cracks leak, it is usually caused by hydrostatic pressure or a high water table. Therefore, sealing the crack will redirect those issues elsewhere.
VERTICAL AND DIAGONAL FOUNDATION CRACKS
Usually, a diagonal or vertical crack in the foundation wall is the result of settling in the concrete foundation and is quite common in new construction, especially if your home is built on a hill or your home has rapidly deteriorating soil conditions because of drought or heavy rainfalls. They usually run vertically or diagonally, are often located in the middle section of walls and are less than 1/8 in wide.
Frequently you will find vertical cracks in block foundations. If the crack is located closer to a corner and is wider than 1/8 in, it is probably not due to shrinkage but indicates a more serious foundation issue. It is recommended you
call K & S Contracting to get it inspected as it may be a cause for concern.
HORIZONTAL FOUNDATION CRACKS
Horizontal cracks that run across your foundation and/or walls are some of the most serious types your home can suffer. They indicate a severe issue with your foundation’s integrity that must be looked into.
Most horizontal cracks are caused by excessive water pressure from outside. In addition to other sources of pressure such as soil movement, it has the potential to impact your foundation’s integrity. They tend to expand and ruin the slab itself, possibly even causing it to collapse.
STAIR STEP CRACKS
Stair step cracks are among the most common foundation cracks. These cracks are a clear sign of a problematic foundation. Typically, stair step cracks in a block foundation are a result of bowing walls. These cracks will be found toward the corners of the foundation, and are often found with a horizontal crack. In a block foundation, stair step cracks may also be found on the outside of the home. Stair step cracks always require further investigation in order to keep your home safe and supported.
Questions or concerns, about your concrete foundation cracks, and what they mean, please contact K & S Contracting.
What can you expect when you deal with the professionals at Preferred Collision and Glass Saskatoon? You can also expect seamless quality repairs! A faster turnaround for your vehicle (on average 25% faster!!) and assistance dealing with insurance! You'll find quality at every price point - from a few hundred dollars to a thousand or more. Preferred Collision and Glass is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Body Expert.
5 COMMON CAUSES OF AUTO COLLISIONS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Auto Collisions are quite often referred to as accidents. However, the reality is that auto collisions happen for a reason and can usually be avoided. Here are 5 common causes of auto collisions and how to avoid them.
1. DISTRACTED DRIVING
Distracted driving is the leading cause of auto collisions. Driving is an important task, and it is imperative that the driver is fully aware of all surroundings and remains alert at all times. With the number of distractions for drivers such as texting, checking themselves out in the mirror, eating, changing the music, or even talking on the phone, it is no wonder distracted driving is the most common cause of collisions.
To reduce the chance of a collision, distracted driving should be avoided. Distracted driving can be avoided by only using your cellphone in emergency situations using the Bluetooth feature, and not eating, texting, or attempting to multitask when you are behind the wheel. The driver must prioritize driving free from distractions to avoid collisions.
2. EXCEEDING THE SPEED LIMIT
Speed limits exist and are enforced for a reason. When the speed limit is exceeded, the driver has less time to react to potential hazards. Even if you are running late, slow down. Speeding is not worth the risk to yourself, passengers, and other drivers. Following the posted speed limit will help to avoid collisions by giving the driver time to react to unforeseen circumstances.
3. IMPAIRED DRIVING
Impaired driving is an inexcusable behaviour that causes auto collisions and destroys lives. It is every driver’s responsibility to ensure that they are fit to operate a motor vehicle before getting behind the wheel. To avoid a collision, do not get behind the wheel if you are impaired, and always plan a safe ride home. With ride-sharing apps such as Uber, a safe ride home is more accessible than ever. There is no excuse for driving impaired, and we must ensure the safety of our community.
4. INCLEMENT WEATHER
Though inclement weather is a cause of auto collisions that is out of the driver’s control, it is important to exercise caution when driving conditions are unfavourable. Snow, ice, heavy rain, and fog are just some of the inclement weather conditions that are not ideal for driving.
If you do find yourself caught driving in a storm, avoid a collision by slowing down and staying focused on the road. When driving in a storm ensure your windshield is kept clear to optimize visibility, and always pay closer attention to the road than usual.
5. TAILGATING
Following too close behind the vehicle in front of you is known as tailgating, and this driving behaviour can easily cause an auto collision. To avoid a rear-end collision with the vehicle in front of you, always maintain a safe following distance of at least three seconds.
When you’re driving, you should focus only on the road that is in front of you and if you get in any collision or accident, contact Preferred Collision for all your vehicle repair needs.
If you are in a collision, Preferred Collision and Glass will look after all your and your car’s needs, during and after, with our Customer For Life program.
Preferred Collision and Glass is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Body Expert.
Sunview Windows and Doors manufacture windows in their Saskatoon factory. They install new and replacement windows for homeowners and businesses in Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan. They also sell high quality doors, security shutters and blinds. In addition, they also manufacture solariums (also called sunrooms), screen rooms, conservatories and patio covers via their sister company, Sunview Solariums Ltd. Sunview Windows and Doors are Trusted Saskatoon Window, Door & Sunroom Experts.
Sunview Windows and Doors Tip on Patio Door Ideas and Options
We strive to be your local experts when it comes to windows and doors. We also want to share our passion for our products with you too, so now we have a Sunview blog to do just that!
In this article, you will learn about new options and patio door ideas for attractive, functional doors.
Patio Doors
Your outdoor living space is an extension of your home, and that is why you’ll want to consider a variety of options and patio door ideas before finalizing your project.
One of the most common patio door options is the French patio door. This style incorporates glass window panes in the door, allowing an unobstructed view from the home’s interior to the outside space and vice versa. It can create a natural transition from the inside to the patio. French patio doors are usually available in wood, fibreglass and PVC, and they can be configured as either swinging or sliding doors.
Sliding Patio Doors
Whereas French patio doors are a more traditional approach, contemporary sliding doors have a more modern look. These doors offer greater simplicity in that they create no obstacles at all to furniture placement, inside or out. Patios are generally gathering places for family and friends, and when lots of people are involved, a traditionally open and close door can be a hindrance to entering and exiting. Just ask anyone who’s tried to carry a tray of appetizers through a traditional door while a gaggle of toddlers is racing in or out. For this reason, and because they can add a modern, elegant design element to connect your outdoor and indoor space, sliding patio doors are a popular option.
In the past, sliding patio doors were heavier and had a reputation for getting stuck in their tracks or misaligned. Modern sliding patio doors generally offer a much slimmer, more contemporary look, and the problems of sticking and misalignment have been lessened. Because of the lighter materials, these new designs generally offer a larger, less obstructed viewing area as well.
Folding Patio Door
Designed with three or more panels, these doors fold upon opening and slide on a track, similar to sliding doors. Folding patio doors can create a unique visual aesthetic and are often a good fit for more modern patio designs. 
Whatever option you prefer the look of, you need to ensure that it will work for your home and your family… that's where we come in! The Sunview Windows and Doors team are skilled professionals. Our goal is to provide the best possible experience from beginning to end!
Contact us today to start planning your patio door dreams!
Sunview Windows and Doors are Trusted Saskatoon Window, Door & Sunroom Experts
As their tagline clearly explains...
We build them – We install them – We stand behind them
Reed Security believes when you become a client you will be entering into a relationship – one they want to grow and become long term... they work hard to meet all your Saskatoon Alarm & security needs from day one! Reed Security are Trusted Saskatoon Alarm and Security Experts.
Trusted Saskatoon Security Experts REED Security Talk Doorbell Security Cameras
See and Hear Visitors at Your Front Door
Your front doorway is a busy place. With visitors introducing themselves, your kids charging to and from the school bus, packages arriving, and hellos and goodbyes galore, it's hard for you to keep track of everyone who passes through. It's no wonder that doorbell cameras are now a smart home must-have, thanks to their ability to show you who's at the door, no matter where you are. And with a ReedHD™ Doorbell Camera, that's just the start.
Because these doorbell cameras are fully integrated into your smart home security system, they're powered by Alarm.com and able to cooperate with other devices. That gives you and your family more ways to incorporate your doorbell camera into your everyday life.
Answer Your Door From Anywhere
A ReedHD™ Doorbell Camera gives you a safe, smart way to see who's at the door, no matter where you are. When a visitor rings the doorbell, you get an Alarm.com smartphone alert. Open your Alarm.com app and you'll see a video feed of who's there, with a microphone icon that you can press to start a voice conversation through the doorbell.
Although you can see your visitor, they can't see you, and you don't need to indicate whether you're home or not. Given that burglars often ring a home's doorbell before a break-in, this makes your video doorbell a great crime deterrent.
Protect a Package from Thieves
With a smart lock included in your Alarm.com-powered setup, you can go a step further and unlock your door remotely. This is great for protecting valuable deliveries that would otherwise be left on your porch.
If you have a smart lock, you'll see an ‘unlock' icon in your app underneath your doorbell's video feed. Once you've verified the delivery person visually, tap once to unlock your door and ask them to leave the package inside. When they're done, use your app to lock your door and watch them leave.
See and Share Suspicious Activity.
A ReedHD™ Doorbell Camera is also a full smart home security camera, ready to capture and send you footage of suspicious activity in your front yard or porch area.
A visitor to your porch will trigger a motion-activated video recording, even if they don't press the doorbell. You can have these clips delivered to your phone right away, where they're easy to download and forward to your partner, neighbours or local police department.
Keep Up With Your Kids
Crooks and intruders aside, most activity at your front door is ‘good' activity: friends visiting and family arriving home. Reed makes it easy to keep up. It's easy to create a custom doorbell camera alert, triggered by your kids' Alarm.com user codes, that sends you a video clip of your kids arriving home every day. It's a great way to make sure they're home safe and know who they're with. Once the kids know they're on camera, they might even give you a wave.
PS: It's Also a Doorbell
Sometimes, you just need a doorbell. You'll be pleased to hear that a ReedHD™ Doorbell Camera goes above and beyond, with both an audible chime and a special ‘Do Not Disturb' option that parents of young children will love. Instead of waking a napping youngster with an audible chime when pushed, your video doorbell will simply trigger a silent smartphone alert that only disturbs you.
Is it Time For You To Upgrade to a ReedHD™ Doorbell Camera?
