Working With Your Commercial Construction Contractor to Stay on Schedule

Working With Your Commercial Construction Contractor to Stay on Schedule

One of the most important aspects of any type of commercial construction project is the schedule because everyone wants to finish on time. The faster the project wraps up, the sooner you can get back to your business operations, deliveries, opening and sales. Generally, a contractor will provide you with a timeline regarding an end date, and while it is their responsibility to stick to this schedule, there are things you can do on your end to ensure the project stays on schedule.

The first thing you must do is hire reputable contractors because their skills and experience will allow them to be realistic, and they will provide you with accurate information. Different contractors specialize in different types of projects, so make sure you hire a reputable company whose skills will be suitable for your type of commercial project specifically. Retail stores, condo buildings and restaurants are all very different in terms of building and completion and the only way to get the results you want is to hire the right team. Check on their qualifications before making a decision to ensure they are the ideal contractors for your project.

It’s also best not to make any drastic changes to the project after the details have been finalized because this can cause delays. It is always recommended that you take unforeseeable setbacks and surprise adjustments into consideration when creating a schedule because these things do happen and can cause your project to finish past the date that was originally scheduled. You may not be able to control these but you can control other aspects, and the fewer changes you make, the faster the project will finish, so spend time on the original plan and make smart decisions during the pre-construction phase so that you don’t have to change anything later on, which would delay the schedule.

Lastly, you should always communicate with your contractor to ensure everyone is on the same page. Schedule regular on-site visits and contact them often throughout the building process so that you can review the progress. This will allow you to have a better understanding of the project and its construction and will also allow you to ask any questions to ensure your specifications are being met. It is also important to communicate with your contractor whenever you’re not on-site and your contractor should be able to reach you easily in case an important decision needs to be made or if an issue that is related to the project must be addressed. Whether it’s through phone, email or text, you and your contractor must be able to communicate throughout the entire building process.

If you want to work with reputable and experienced builders, Impact Demolition & Contracting can help. We specialize in commercial renovations and our general contractors can help with projects of any kind. If you are in the Edmonton area and want your project to finish on time, give us a call today!

Before Adding a Home Addition, Consider These 4 Questions

Before Adding a Home Addition, Consider These 4 Questions

Adding an extra room or entire floor to your property is one of the most expensive house renovations to do. While there are several advantages to expanding your home, there’s a lot that should be considered before the project is underway. Here are four important questions you should keep in mind before moving forward with a home addition.

Why do you want an addition?

Is it to add more space somewhere in your home? To improve the scale and exterior of the house? You need to think long and hard about whether or not a home addition is necessary. For additional room, maybe all you need to do is take down a wall or two that are already established or reconfigure the interior of your home entirely. Maybe it’ll do you better just to move. If the cost of expanding your existing home is much more than what you’d spend to buy a new one, then you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each option to best suit your family’s needs.

Can the house support the extra weight?

In order to get a definitive answer here, you’ll need to talk to a reputable engineer, especially if your addition plans are to add another floor to the existing floor plan. They’ll tell you whether or not your home’s structure can actually support another floor. This is a necessary step in regards to the safety of you and whoever else lives within the house. If your house can’t handle this kind of house renovation, then your only options are possibly opening up the interior floor plan to add more room or moving altogether.

What are you allowed to do?

It’s important to know and understand your municipality's bylaws before you slap an addition onto your house. This should be done before any plans have been drawn up, for they might have to be altered dramatically depending on what can and can’t be done. To find this out, go to your city’s urban planning office with your house deed and photos in hand. They’ll tell you how far the addition can go, what kinds of house exteriors are forbidden or even if you’re allowed to build an addition at all. Because every city is different, you’ll need to talk to someone about your specific municipal bylaws before wasting money on a project you’ll later have to demolish due to violations.

Who will take care of everything?

To make sure your house renovation goes smoothly, you’ll need the help of a reputable and experienced contractor, one that specialized in home additions. When having the plans themselves drawn up, you’ll need to have an engineer or architect involved to make sure the addition will be structurally sound and safe.

If you’re looking for a trusted contractor to get your renovation project off the ground, then you’ve found the right people in Impact Demolition and Contracting. Since 2007, we’ve specialized in renovating our client’s restaurants, bars, medical facilities, and more. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, make sure to contact us for more information.


Tips on Restaurant Construction

Restaurant Renovation Edmonton

Restaurant construction is different than other types of commercial projects and there are different considerations you need to factor into your project. Whether you own a fine-dining restaurant or a bakery café, all restaurant owners will benefit from the following tips, so make sure to keep them in mind:

Work Within A Budget And A Schedule

This applies to all types of construction projects but is especially important in the restaurant industry because you need to resume your operations as quickly as possible. Agreeing to a schedule will ensure everyone follows this timeline and is a strict reminder of the importance of the project. Budgeting is equally as important because it will allow you to stay within your means instead of spending more than what you can actually afford. Make sure you factor in construction, materials and the renovation process to come up with a realistic number. Staying on schedule will ensure you don’t go over your budget for delayed openings and additional labour, and as a client, you need to make sure of this.

Choose The Right Contractors

Trust is a very important part of the construction process, so you need to make sure you hire contractors that you can trust. You are going to leave your vision and your restaurant in their hands, so you need to work with people who can turn your dreams into a reality. Choose contractors who have experience working on this type of project specifically because restaurant construction can be challenging, but an expert will get the job done right. Spend some time looking at different contractors before making a decision.

Consider Renovations

If a complete reconstruction is not a possibility, look into renovations as these, too, can make a world of difference. The right renovations will make your restaurant look completely different and can change the appearance of your space completely. Renovating your existing structure may be a better option because there are fewer demands in terms of resources and you can keep parts of the existing infrastructure and simply improve it.

Understand Your Clients

As a restaurant owner, you likely have a unique vision and will focus on this aspect. This is natural but it is important to consider your clients as well because they are the ones who will be eating at your restaurant. Diners may have different expectations than you and you must find the perfect balance so that your business succeeds. Understanding their needs will ensure your restaurant thrives, so make sure you keep your consumers happy so that they return to your restaurant.

Impact Demolition & Contracting can help with all of your commercial renovation needs. Whether you own a restaurant or a different type of commercial establishment, our reputable builders can help with renovations of any kind. If you want to work with a general contractor you can trust, give us a call now!

Pre-Construction Steps For Retail General Contractors

Pre-Construction Steps For Retail General Contractors

Businesses hire retail general contractors to ensure their commercial construction project gets off on the right foot from the very beginning. There is a lot of preparation and planning going into any project, and retail is no different. There are a few tasks any contractor will complete prior to even breaking ground for the first time, and it can be useful to know what you’re getting into and what to expect when working with them.

The following are the steps a contractor will take with internal stakeholders to ensure their project is completed smoothly, and done right the first time.

1) Building Space Assessment

Before any design can be done on the structure itself, the existing space or structure needs to be examined to understand the scope of the project. The contractor will ensure all of the needed utilities are made available to the location, including electrical, plumbing, or HVAC. Cosmetic construction is accounted for in this phase as well, especially if accommodations for oddly-shaped existing structures are necessary. Properly assessing the location can save a lot of headaches later.

2) Design Planning

Now that any structural concerns are taken into consideration, planning can move forward. A contractor will work closely with their client and draw up the blueprints, ensuring everything meets the safety standards and expectations according to federal and state or provincial law. A final layout of furniture or equipment is especially important in this stage, as it allows the contractor to accommodate them, potentially including them into design features of the space itself. The better the visualization for the final space, the better the final outcome.

3) Establish Roles And Responsibilities

Construction of a project isn’t completed by a single person. It involves several different stakeholders who are integral to the completion of the project in a timely and efficient manner, including the contractor themselves, the property owner/manager, and the business owner who may be renting from the property owner. All parties involved need to be in agreement, or the whole project grinds to a halt.

4) Budget And Schedule

While most building projects won’t know exactly how much a project will cost, it’s a good idea to have a quote drawn up before the project begins. That way, any significant deviations can be caught quickly if a contractor is going over budget, which generally requires submitting proposed changes to a contract to ensure all parties approve of increasing or decreasing the budget if need be. The same goes for time. All projects should be completed in a timely manner, and ideally the business owner will want to begin operation as soon as possible. Therefore, it’s important to have a solid understanding of how long the project will take, and again, adjusting if changes need to be made due to unforeseen circumstances.

When working with Impact Demolition & Contracting, we get the job done right the first time. Our contractors will work with you to ensure your project is completed to everyone’s satisfaction the first time. If you need a builder, renovator, or contractor in the Edmonton area, give us a call and get started on your next big project today.

5 Reasons to Renovate Your Office

Office Renovations Edmonton

There are a number of advantages to renovating your office space, so if you’re ready to evolve and want a workplace that is modern, here are five reasons why you should take this step:

Maintain your great reputation and create a great impression

You only have one opportunity to impress your clients and in today’s world, simply offering innovative products is not enough. Your office space must complement your business and the message you’re trying to convey, which is impossible to do with an outdated space that can turn potential clients away. Trends change quickly and in order to remain current, a company must consider renovating their space to reflect their success and gain more clients. A modern appearance is far more appealing than an old office space and will help elevate both your environment and your brand.

Increase productivity levels

Impressing your clients is extremely important but keeping your employees focused and happy is equally as important and a new workspace will boost morale and productivity. Every company has unique needs and contractors can customize any workplace to meet the company’s needs, whether it’s optimizing the space, improving its functionality or both. When employees enjoy the environment in which they work and feel comfortable with their surroundings, they will produce better work and improve their performance.

Safety 

Workplace safety must be taken seriously and renovations will allow you to update this aspect to provide your staff with peace of mind. Unobstructed exit points, comfortable lighting, proper ventilation, safe flooring, updated fire and safety codes and ergonomic office furniture are only some of the things that are essential when it comes to office renovations. Your staff spends a majority of their time at work, which is why workplace safety must be a priority.

Growth

Renovations will help your business expand and reach its full potential, which may not be possible in a small and outdated space. As your company develops, your office space must grow along with it so that you can run your operation effectively while preparing for your business needs in the future. Consider the number of new employees you’re planning on hiring, any new equipment you’ll need and the type of space you require so that you can optimize your existing space accordingly.

Savings

Businesses have to implement cost control measures but older buildings and offices make it difficult to stick to a budget because older components result in higher spending and costly energy bills. Renovations will eliminate repair costs and reduce your energy bills by increasing sustainability, thanks to energy-saving doors and windows, better insulation and LED lighting, just to name a few.

Impact Demolition & Contracting can help with all of your commercial renovation projects, including offices and restaurants. If you’re in Edmonton and want a general contractor you can trust and commercial builders who will get the job done right, give us a call today and we will transform your current space into something incredible!

Top Questions to Ask Your Toronto Commercial Contractor

Top Questions to Ask Your Toronto Commercial Contractor

Embarking on a commercial project can be a stressful process. On top of making sure that you have all the necessary paperwork to run your business, you also have to work and coordinate with a commercial construction company to make sure that your future business looks exactly the way you want it to. Below, we have compiled a list of questions you should ask your commercial contractor before beginning your project.

Background/Experience

You should ask a contractor about their background/experience to ensure that they have completed a project like yours before.

Questions: 

  • What is your background & experience?

  • How long have you been in operation?

  • Do you have experience in the commercial construction I need?

  • Can you provide examples of past projects or a list of previous clients?

Insurance/Liability

Before beginning your project, you’ll want to make sure that the commercial contractors that you choose are licensed. This will confirm that they have a reputable reputation, and follow the rules and regulations established by the province or city.

Questions:

  • Do you have a license? 

  • Do you have proof of a licence? 

  • Does the company have liability insurance?

Labour/Workers

For a larger project, there are two types of contractors: general contractors and subcontractors. A general contractor acts as the project coordinator of your project and oversees its development. Subcontractors are skilled tradespeople (i.e. roofers/carpenters) that perform the labour portion of the project.

Questions:

  • Will you be hiring subcontractors for this project? 

Building Permits

While there may be some additional cost and time required to obtain building permits, in an ideal situation your contractors will be able to take care of it. While it is not a deal-breaker, it would be ideal that you contractor is familiar 

Questions:

  •  Have you obtained any building permits in the area within the last few years? 

After Construction Support

The project doesn’t end when the crew leaves the side. Make sure that you go over after construction support procedures that they may have in place so that you can be confident that they will be able to address any issues that you may face after construction.

Question: 

  • Do you have a checklist that you can go over before signing off on the project?

  • Do you have processes in place for resolving any issues that you don’t believe are up to standards? 

For all of your commercial construction needs, contact Impact Demolition & Contracting. We have an established reputation for outside customer service and providing top-quality projects. Contact us today to get your project started.

Restaurant Renovations on a Budget: Smart Ideas to Update Your Space

Restaurant Renovations on a Budget: Smart Ideas to Update Your Space

In order for a restaurant to succeed, improvements are necessary as they will help your space remain clean, beautiful and inviting. When a restaurant looks fresh, it will have a positive impact on customers who will want to come back both because of your menu and the atmosphere you have created.

Renovations can be overwhelming, especially when all of the costs are taken into consideration, but there are ways of updating your space on a budget to make your restaurant look and feel brand new. If you’re wondering how this is possible, the following tips will help:

  1. Focus on your entrance. This is the first thing your customers will notice when they come to your restaurant and their first impression will be based on this aspect. Enhance it in a way where guests are immediately impressed because this will be an indication of what they can expect inside. Updating your signage, adding planters and flowers, a clean parking lot and the installation of a modern door are all ways to help elevate your entranceway. 

  2. Improve your facilities. Nobody wants to eat at a restaurant that has dirty bathrooms as it will cause them to question the quality of your food and the condition of the kitchen. In order to prevent such a negative and disastrous situation, update your facilities so that they reflect your business positively. Facilities are an important aspect of any restaurant and should be cared for accordingly. 

  3. Apply a fresh coat of paint. It’s truly amazing to see what a new coat of fresh paint can do. It can transform your entire restaurant and create a whole new design. Select fresh colours that are suitable for your space and theme and you’ll be surprised at the impact this will have. Painting is one of the easiest and most effective ways of improving a restaurant.

  4. Set-up an outdoor patio. This may not be possible for everyone but if your space allows for it, create an outdoor space where customers can eat or drink. This will take your restaurant to a whole new level and create interest amongst new customers who will want to eat outdoors. This is a great idea if you have an unused area because you can transform it into a beautiful space where more customers can come to enjoy the delicious food you offer.

  5. Add art. This applies to the walls, menus, tablecloths and anything else that can use some creativity. Updating these things will make a huge difference and customers will appreciate your efforts of keeping your restaurant modern and trendy. You can even install new light fixtures, which will really elevate your space. 

If you’re ready to give your restaurant a makeover, contact Impact Contracting in Edmonton. They specialize in commercial renovations, including restaurants, so if you want a general contractor you can trust and commercial builders who have the right experience, give them a call today!

Three Essential Retail Renovation Tips To Boost Sales

Three Essential Retail Renovation Tips To Boost Sales

Shopping online may be convenient, but it can’t compare to the full experience a shopper has when they enter their favourite retail store. From the entryway to browsing, finding that perfect outfit to purchase and leaving home with it in tow - retail stores centralize on providing consumers with a complete experience that makes them feel special. That being said, if your retail store not aesthetically appealing, the customer’s experience is virtually useless if they won’t even step inside.

If your retail business requires a few commercial renovations to rectify those sales, you’ve come to the right place for guidance! Impact Contracting knows exactly what it takes to restore a business to become a contemporary space that your customers will love. Here are our three key tips for your retail remodel:

Restore The Interior Walls

Sometimes, all a retail space needs to achieve a stunning makeover is a fresh coat of paint! Depending on your brand, select a paint colour that reflects who you are and does not deter from the gorgeous items you’re selling. Neutral colours are a practical and popular choice because they help the products stand out. If you choose a neutral tone for the walls, incorporating an accent wall could be the perfect way to catch a consumer’s eye to a specific set of products. 

Upgrade The Lighting

Lighting plays one of the most important roles in a retail setting. Shoppers that are trying on your clothing items will not want to be faced with unflattering fluorescent lights. Incandescent lighting illuminates the consumer far too much, ultimately making them warm and uncomfortable. Most retail stores have tossed out these lighting choices and opted for LED light bulbs. LEDs are cost and energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than other lights. They are also far more reliable, making them far less likely to blow out or fail while customers are browsing through the store.

Redo the Flooring

You may think your customers will be largely focused on browsing products than the flooring they’re waking on, however, this is not always the case! If your store has uneven flooring, peeling vinyl squares, or floors that are just outdated and don’t reflect your brand’s image, it’s time for a revamp. All aspects of a retail store are taken into account by the consumer as they browse, and they’ll notice old, outdated flooring. A great option for a floor remodel is a plank-style flooring, especially wood vinyl. This flooring style is smooth and contemporary, especially in neutral or gray tones, and is also fairly durable - being waterproof and stain-resistant. 


Impact Contracting is your commercial builder in Edmonton to restore your retail business into a contemporary dream. Consumers, clients and potential employees alike will all be stunned and extremely impressed by our creative, modern remodelling project results. Working with you to formulate the perfect visual transformation for your business, we’ll bring your dream to life on time and on budget. Get in touch with us today to discuss your vision.

Signs That It's Time to Renovate Your Commercial Property

Signs That It's Time to Renovate Your Commercial Property

The appearance and condition of your commercial property is a direct reflection of your business itself, meaning it should always be in great shape so that you maintain a strong and positive reputation. If your commercial property is in bad shape, it will negatively affect your business and its success. Here are a few signs to look out for which are all indicators that a renovation is required:

  1. If you notice a decrease in the foot traffic of your store, it means changes are necessary. If the appearance of your property is visually unappealing, it will drive traffic away. Curb appeal is important and its condition will either invite consumers to come in or cause them to walk away. To increase foot traffic, you must consider renovating your storefront whether it’s a new façade, replacing your sign or applying a fresh coat of paint because these improvements will attract a lot more people.

  2. An increase in negative reviews and feedback means your commercial property is in need of improvement. In addition to your customer service, the appearance of your property will also affect people’s opinions of your business, so it may be time to renovate to provide customers with a better and lasting impression of your store. Consider opening up your floor plan and incorporating more natural light, which will create a better environment that is spacious and more inviting. 

  3. Experiencing a boost in traffic and positive reviews is great, but it doesn’t mean you should get comfortable. Always work to make your business better and stay up to date with renovations so that your company continues to succeed. If something is perfect at the moment, it’s not a guarantee that it will stay that way, so continue building unique displays, modern shelving, new light fixtures along with investing in creative architecture and design that incorporates technology. 

  4. Ignoring the competition is never a good idea because you have to make sure that you remain successful and relevant. The last thing you want is for your loyal customers to jump ship, so make sure your space and layout are up to date in terms of colours, design, display cases and new technologies, which will help you continue to please and impress your customers. This will only be possible through renovations and updates, which will ensure you’re never behind the competition and always ahead of the game. 

For more ideas regarding renovations to your commercial property, contact Impact Contracting in Edmonton today. Their professional commercial builders can help with all of your renovation projects, whether it’s a restaurant renovation or an office one. For a general contractor, you can trust, call Impact Contracting!


Three Tips On How To Combine The Old With The New In Your Commercial Property’s Renovation

Three Tips On How To Combine The Old With The New In Your Commercial Property’s Renovation

Older buildings possess charming elements and memories that are worth preserving. However, older commercial properties can develop issues over time and require repairs; or even an update on the decor that no longer reflects your business’s identity. That’s why blending the old with the new is the most practical renovation approach for business owners that want to preserve their older property’s charming character while keeping it contemporary for customers. Making proper updates for a well-updated property can help raise sales goals and attract new customers and potential employees. Ensuring you have a balance of the old with the new and that neither one cancels out the other is imperative to a beautifully refined commercial property.

Impact Contracting is here to help you enhance your timeless space with a 21st-century appeal. Here are our four tips on how to combine the old with the new:

1. Everything Must Be In Proportion

It may not seem apparent, but a building’s design, especially an older property, is designed to fit properly with every element and room. That’s why when doing a renovation, it’s so important to consider those proportions and adjusting the new aspects accordingly. For example, replacing the rustic wooden tables for a new glass or laminate tables may appear mismatched with the business’s overall traditional exterior. To avoid this, it’s helpful to maintain the proportion set of the original design and keep the update similar in style and colour. 

If you want to add an outside patio or additional space to the property, take inspiration from the best aspects of the original building and include them in your building’s design. It’s more visually appealing when the building itself and the new addition are proportionate in design, style and colour.

2. Replacing Hardwood Floors May Not Be Necessary

Hardwood floors are extremely durable and meant to last for several decades. Although they may develop wear and tear over time, that does not necessarily mean you should replace them. Hardwood floors reflect the building’s character, even if they’re more worn down. Real estate investor and HGTV show host, Scott McGillivray, explained how “the most common phrase on real estate listings in North America is hardwood floors.” An older property’s hardwood floor can often increase it’s an overall value because the hardwood itself is rare. 

If you want to modernize your classic hardwood floors, try sanding them down. This can refine the flooring while maintaining its classic charm. 

3. No New Windows

Replacing your windows with new ones entirely is not necessary. Historic or older buildings with wood windows are often being torn out and replaced for more modern windows. Caring for these windows can expand the window’s already long lifespan and improve its character. Windows are a significant architectural element of any building, especially an older one, and completely removing them can diminish the quality of your property. Many customers are also drawn to the rustic simplicity and brilliance of older windows with character. By adding new technology to your old windows, such as weatherstripping, can reduce energy costs without taking away from your building’s original character.

If you’re looking to give your building a revamp while still preserving it’s most appealing elements, Impact Contracting Edmonton will make it happen. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Check Out these Budget Friendly Restaurant Renovation Ideas

Check Out these Budget Friendly Restaurant Renovation Ideas

Restaurants are known for their food, but also for the overall experience it provides. This includes the interior layout and design, and how customers feel when they are sitting down to eat. It’s important to make sure that the quality of the food matches the atmosphere and space of the restaurant itself. You don’t want a space that is outdated, old or uncomfortable because it will take away from the food and can result in a negative experience. 

If it’s time to renovate your restaurant, the following tips will help make it better while staying on budget: 

  1. If your budget allows for just a few things, make your entrance a priority. The first impression is very important and an inviting entrance will make your clients feel welcome. It will give them a good feeling and they’ll be excited to sit down and eat a nice meal in your restaurant. A bad entranceway might turn customers away because they will have a negative reaction right from the start.

  2. Make sure you have clean bathrooms that look good and don’t smell. Renovating restaurant bathrooms is very important because an old and dirty bathroom will ruin your reputation and make customers question your business and your food. A dirty bathroom in a place that serves food is a health code violation and a big turnoff. Renovate the bathroom and add modern sinks and faucets, new lighting and anything else that can brighten up the space to make it feel clean and new.

  3. A very affordable way of elevating your restaurant is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Choose a new colour that compliments the theme of your restaurant and you’ll be surprised at what a big difference this will make. You can choose a bold colour or do an accent wall; there are no limits to creativity so long as it makes sense and represents your restaurant appropriately. Remember that lighter colours will make a small space feel bigger and darker colours can make a bigger space feel more inviting and cozy. You must select paints that can deal with restaurant conditions and handle moisture, heat and high traffic. 

  4. Incorporate natural light into your restaurant by adding large windows to your walls or ceiling to let the sun in, which will make customers happy and comfortable. This will make the restaurant feel spacious and inviting, and customers can get a feel of the outdoors while they’re inside. If you have the space, you should also consider adding an outdoor patio for the warmer months, which is something customers will love!

Impact Contracting can help you with all of your restaurant renovations. If you’re in the Edmonton area and are looking for commercial builders who can do the job right, Impact Contracting is who you need to call. If you need a general contractor, contact them today and let them help you transform your restaurant into something new and beautiful.


7 Things You Need to Consider During a Commercial Renovation

7 Things You Need to Consider During a Commercial Renovation

Remodelling a commercial space can have a huge impact on your business’s profit margin as well as your reputation. Upgrading your space the right way will improve everyone’s situation; owners, employees and customers alike. But, what is the right way? That’s what we’re here to find out!

Prioritize Your Goals

What do you want out of your commercial renovation? You need to determine whether bringing new customers, rebranding your company, increasing efficiency or improving employee morale is your top priority with this renovation. Once you’ve narrowed that down, you can move forward in executing your plans without fear of going overboard or getting distracted.

Make a Schedule and Budget

Being adequately prepared for the renovation of commercial space is essential for success, especially if you have a tight budget to stick to. Before contacting potential construction companies, create a detailed schedule that won’t cost too much in terms of lost revenue. As well, have a realistic budget that can accomplish everything you need, putting about 10% aside for emergencies.

Compare Local Contactor Prices

Once your goals are in place, you can move onto finding the right general contractors to get the job done. Don’t focus on a single company without looking at the pricing and skill of other local contractors. Browse through customer reviews, work portfolios and even interview the ones you think will be the best fit for your commercial renovation.

Think of the Future

Your commercial space has to meet the needs of your company today as well as several years into the future. Consider your five or ten-year business plan and mould your renovations accordingly.

Stay Open or Close During the Renovations?

The decision of whether or not to stay open and operational during a renovation depends on several factors. Some of which include the financial state of your business, the level of disturbance it may cause customers, and the length of the renovation itself.

Know Your Target Audience

This factor alone can make or break your business depending on your location and the group of individuals you’re targeting. Turning your old-time diner into a hip nightclub when the surrounding area is packed with an older demographic will quickly drop your revenue potential. Always keep your employees and customers in mind when making commercial renovation decisions.

Don’t Fear Change

While it’s important to have a budget and a schedule set in place during your renovation, it’s also important to be open to the changes and unplanned scenarios that might also occur. It’s common for things not to go as planned during a renovation project, especially when you’re dealing with building permits and site inspections.

At Impact Demolition and Contracting, we staff a slew of general contractors you can trust for your commercial renovation. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, we’re a team of commercial builders that have specialized in medical facility and restaurant renovations since 2007. For more information, be sure to call us or visit our website today!


How to find General Contractor

How to find General Contractor

Whether you’re remodelling your kitchen or building a commercial space from the ground up, you need to have a good general contractor on your side. To make sure you hire the right person for the job, here are some tips for finding a trusted construction company.

Best Places to Look

Before you start searching online for a general contractor, consider talking to any friends and family who’ve recently hired a general contractor and undergone renovations. Ask them questions about cost, work ethic, timelines, and overall experience. If they have nothing but amazing things to say, then you’ve just found your general contractor. However, if they had a horrible experience with the company they hired, then you should move onto looking at trade associations.

Trade associations provide people with up-to-date directories listing members, contact information, job specialties and more. You’ll be able to find general contractors in your area, and as their websites are commonly attached to their listing, you can evaluate their previous work before contacting them.

What to Look for in a Contractor

First and foremost, any potential general contractors you’re looking into should be both licensed and insured. If any accidents occur on the job, you’ll be held liable without insurance. As well, hiring an unlicensed contractor puts your residential or commercial renovation at risk. Companies that have been awarded for good work and/or a part of the trade association speaks well to their skills and reliability.

Have a look at their professional portfolio. Doing so will not only show you the quality of their work, but you’ll be able to see whether or not their renovation style matches your personal taste. You don’t want to hire a company that specializes in traditional or vintage renovations when you have a completely modern aesthetic planned out.

How to Decide

Once you have a list of general contractors you’re confident in, it’s now time to interview them and compare your candidates. For a sneak peek into their working habits, see if you can meet them at a current job site. Don’t be afraid to ask them a lot of questions, including how long the project could take, potential renovation problems, and a job estimate.

For more information, call their references and look online for customer reviews, as general contractors won’t tell you about any past bad behaviour. If it’s a large renovation you’re planning, then this is more important than ever. You don’t want to waste hundreds of thousands of dollars hiring a company that has a reputation of scamming their clients.

If you’re looking for a general contractor you can trust for your next renovation project, then you’ve found the right one in Impact Demolition and Contracting. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, our commercial builders have been specializing in restaurant, bar and medical facility renovations since 2007. Interested? Then contact us to learn more!


Top 8 Design Choices for Retail Spaces

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Are you looking to open up your own commercial retail space but aren’t sure how to go about it? Do you need help figuring out the most efficient design plan that will help sell merchandise? Then this is the guide for you, as we’ll go through the top seven design choices that should go into every retail space.

Natural Checkout Placement

Once a customer has made the decision to purchase something from your store, you’ll want to create easy access to the checkout area. More often than not, if it’s too complicated or confusing to get to the checkout area, customers will leave the product behind. For smaller stores, make sure employees at the checkout counter can see the entire store. It’s best to have it up against a well-decorated wall, with products set up to encourage impulse buying.

It Should be Comfortable

You never want customers to feel uncomfortable in your store or business, so it’s important to implement certain features that create a relaxed environment. For example, when placing tables or shelves together to create an aisle, make sure there’s enough room for two people to pass one another without touching. Studies have shown that the possibility of brushing up against a stranger makes customers less likely to go down that aisle. Be sure to avoid placing things too closely together when designing a retail space.

Use Mirrors

Do you have a small retail space? The best way to make it seem bigger while also showcasing your products from even more angles is to integrate mirrors throughout. Doing this creates the illusion of more space. Place them against the walls to make the store feel wider or longer, or have a mirrored ceiling to create the appearance of a taller environment.

Play with Lighting

Having the proper lighting will greatly influence the atmosphere you’re trying to create in this retail space. Dim lighting can create a soothing experience for customers while showcasing specific products or service areas. Use spotlights to create focal points and draw attention. Natural lighting can also draw the eye, so if your commercial space has well-placed windows, utilize them to brighten up the room.

Overall? Keep it Simple

It’s easy to go overboard when you’re trying to design a retail space that speaks to a variety of people. Instead of creating a complicated space that decked out in over the top decor and overly confusing for customers, focus on the smaller aspects. Make sure products are spaced out in a way that’s easily sorted through without being overwhelmed.

At Impact Demolition and Contracting, our clients are more like partners when you work with us. Located in Edmonton, Alberta since 2007, we specialize in restaurant and bar renovations, commercial construction, medical facilities and more. Be sure to contact us for more information.

Home renovation tips to make the exterior appealing

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One of the first things that your guests are bound to notice when they visit you is the exterior of your property. The exterior of your home includes the entrance, driveway, yard, garden, and front door. It is essential to pay special attention to elevate the curb appeal of your home. Whether it is an outdated fixture hanging in your yard or peeling paint on the exterior walls of your home, your home's exterior is noticed minutely than you can ever imagine. Everyone who visits your home, who lives nearby or prospective buyers, each one of them pays attention to the curb appeal of your home. Maybe you are not planning on selling your home anytime in near the future, ignoring the exterior aesthetics of your home can create a rather long lasting and unimpressionable memory in your visitor's mind.

 

Here are a few home renovation tips that will make your home look fancy and increase the overall external appeal.

Staging a beautiful exterior

No matter how much often people say that they do not judge a book by the cover, it is untrue. In the context of your home, a beautiful exterior is something that everyone observes. An unmowed lawn, a rusted or a broken piece of decoration and scraps of dead leaves lead visitors to believe that the house is being severely neglected. So make sure not to overlook or neglect the curb appeal of your house. Of course, it gives a good impression on your visitors, but it is even more crucial if you are trying to sell your home. Staging your home for potential buyers means you need to focus on both, the internal and external aspects of your property. A well-curated lawn that is clean and devoid of rusted or broken decoration looks more appealing especially if you want to entice a buyer and get a great offer.

Sometimes old is not really gold

Even if you may be one of those who likes vintage, make sure that you do not leave the exterior of your home with broken, rusted fixtures. Whether it is the mailbox, the gate, signs or your pottery, make sure to upkeep them by rust proofing and painting. Maintaining your external metal fixtures can cost very little and yet give you that aesthetic appeal. In addition, make sure that you have a well-lit yard so that your guests feel welcome. With a little investment, you can significantly improve the curb appeal of your home.

Colours make a difference

If you are looking to fix your curb appeal in a quick, simple and cost-efficient way, painting is the best option. Peeled or discolored patches on your exterior wall can make your curb look quite unappealing. Repaint the exterior of your home so that it looks appealing and bright. Exterior painting is much different than interior painting. It requires you to consider the weather-enforced wear and tear, and make sure to apply the right kind of base coats and colors so that they last amidst the harsh weather changes.

Clutterless

One of the most common things that many homeowners with a yard do is dump everything that they do not need inside their home in the yard. Right from wine bottles to an old car, homeowners are known to hoard junk. If you want to create the right first impression on your guests, the first thing that you need to do is to discard all the unnecessary junk from your yard. If you have a special bottle or a memorable broken vase that you want to preserve, find a way to reuse it creatively and add it as an element of decoration to your garden. If you have decorated your home for festivities, remember to pull them down after the celebration. Arrange the outdoor decorations and plants in a way that it adds to the beauty of your home. Mow the lawn regularly and declutter. There is a simple rule to decluttering if you haven't missed something for three months straight, get rid of it. Remember you don't really need it.

 

As a contractor, we understand that when it actually comes to a task, many homeowners are surrounded with challenges. ‘I don't know where to start’ is the most common answer that we, at Impact Contracting, have heard. Start with calling us. We will help you to redesign, clean and declutter your exteriors with our trained crew.

 

 

 

 

Steps to renew your staircase

Commercial Renovation Edmonton

A beautiful staircase emits class and style. It is not just an accessory for your home, but if constructed artistically and carefully, can elevate the style and look of your home. If you are considering renovating a staircase, here are some essential steps that can help you to plan the renovation project better.

Two elements of a quintessential staircase project are finance and construction. First the finances. Planning a staircase renovation project can mean significant financial investment. You need to consider the budget you would allocate to the project and look for options depending on the flexibility you can afford on it. Once you have planned a budget, it is imperative to look for a construction company that specializes in building staircases.

Remember that a good looking and well-constructed staircase not only makes your home look beautiful but also helps you to command a better price, if you are considering selling in the near future. After deciding these two parameters, here are a few other considerations that you must consider.

The Why Factor

One of the key considerations for a staircase renovation is “why?” The reason why you are considering renovating your staircase will decide the approach your renovator will adopt. If you are redesigning your staircase because you are not happy with the existing design, the staircase renovation will focus on the design element. If you are more concerned about maximizing space or minimizing space, the staircase will be designed differently.

No matter what your goal is, it must be clearly communicated to the renovator for them to work towards a goal. Things like adding storage space or drawers beneath your staircase can cost anywhere around $2,000-$3,000. If you are not planning to sell your property anytime soon, this may be a good investment.

The Budgeted Renewal

If you are limited on the budget but unhappy with your existing staircase, you can choose to renovate just its treads and risers. Adding up to prefinished 12 treads and 13 risers can cost anywhere around $1,000, plus the labour cost. In case if your staircase is in good condition and you just want it to look better, consider decals which you can buy for under $10. A budgeted renewal may just solve your problem and give a new look to your home. Of course, remember to match the decals to your home decor.

Painting a Staircase

Another renovation option is painting your staircase. Adding fresh colours will make your dull staircase look lively again. It is worth it given that the budget for painting is much less compared to a complete renovation. Plus, if you are a DIY painter, it is a cakewalk and also a fun project for the holidays. If you are planning a staircase painting project, consider that you may not be able to use the staircase until the paint dries.

If you are not sure how else to make your staircase interesting within your budget, why not speak to experts at Impact Contracting? Their team of experts can provide guidance on the best approach to planning a staircase renovation affordably. Contact Impact Contracting for more information. They are located in Edmonton, AB.

Energy-Efficient Windows – Say Yes To Window Renovation

Drywall Companies Edmonton

Updating your windows may seem like an unnecessary home reno, especially if yours appears to be in okay condition. But, upgrading to energy-efficient windows could save you more money in the long-run than your current windows can. There are also measures you can take to improve your current windows without replacing the entire unit. Here are a few options available to you:

Improve existing windows

  • If you cannot take on the cost of replacing all of your windows or if your windows are relatively new, consider updating a portion of them and reap the energy savings.

  • Caulk windows to seal them better. A professional can quickly re-caulk your windows, or you can do it yourself as well. You simply need a caulking gun and the cartridges.

  • Add weather stripping to the perimeter of your windows so that cold air stays out and warm air stays in. This material can be found at a hardware store and varies in price from $6 to $50 depending on the brand and length you choose.

  • Replacing single-pane glass with double-pane glass is another way to add insulation to your windows. A typical double-pane glass window will cost around $200, and a triple pane window will cost even more. The difference in added energy-efficiency between a single and double pane window is vast, while the difference between a double and triple pane is marginal.

  • Window treatments can add charm to your home and also provide shade during hotter months and insulation during colder months. Drapes, curtains, and blinds are also a great way to customize your home.

Replace old windows with energy-efficient windows

  • It is time for a full upgrade when your windows start to deteriorate and look dated. Cheap windows may seem appealing because of the lower initial price tag, but they can cost you more in the long-run. Energy-saving windows are worth the investment because of the hundreds you will save on your cooling and heating costs.

  • Check the Energy Star certification on your window choices to be sure they are adequate for your home's climate so that you are getting the most out of your investment.

  • New windows mean you can change the style of window you have as well. Consider awning, tilt-and-turn, casement, etc. Sliding windows do not shut as tightly when weather stripping is used, which can lead to energy loss.

  • Consider using aluminum, vinyl, or fibreglass instead of wood for your windows frames. Wood is susceptive to moisture damage and requires more maintenance than other materials.

  • Low-E coating is an excellent way to prevent heat loss while still letting in natural light. Using argon gas between two panes on a double pane window can reduce its U-value (heat transmission) and insulate your home better.

The cost of energy-efficient windows will vary depending on the glass, material, glazing, etc. It can be expensive to install energy-efficient windows, but it also saves you money on your energy bills. You can expect to save 8% when you use Energy Star certified windows. It can also add thousands of dollars to the value of your property.

Instead of thinking of a window renovation as a costly expense, consider it a valuable long-term investment. Call the professionals at Impact Contracting, and we will make sure your investment is installed correctly.


5 Smart Renovation Tips For Your Laundry Room

Commercial Renovations Edmonton

Weirdly enough, the laundry room is by far the most ignored rooms in the home as far as renovation is concerned. Whenever we plan to renovate our home, we think of the bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathrooms, etc. But what if we told you laundry rooms too are in need of innovation for a very special reason. Firstly laundry rooms are one of the most frequently used rooms in a home. Even though formerly they may just be used for washing and drying, today’s laundry rooms are also used to store items such as cleaning liquids, extra laundry, vacuum cleaners etc. So it is just as important to organize them as any other room. Here are our five top-notch tips to help you organize your laundry room is a cost-effective way.

Lighting

If you like doing your laundry first thing in the morning, consider having a bright window in the laundry room. Not only can it make your day better, but also provides the much-needed light. If you like to take it easy and do the laundry the last thing in the evening, consider investing in ample lighting for clear visibility. You may consider hiring a reputed electrician to make sure that your laundry room is well-lit.

Painting

Just because it is a laundry room, doesn't mean it has to be boring. Welcome to the world of wallpapers, where you can buy theme based or cute wallpapers for your laundry room. You can also deck up your room with posters to make them look colourful.

Add-ons

It never killed to have an aesthetic appeal to your laundry room. Maybe an aromatic diffuser or even having a compact music system can make laundry a much more enjoyable experience. You can also consider adding a few potted plants.

Furniture

Ideally, a laundry room should have a beautiful table and a few storage units to store fresh laundry. Instead of making it all bland you can try to have some fun with colours around it. Invest in colourful wardrobes, ottomans or even carpets to make your laundry room more appealing.

Ironing

Invest in a robust ironing board and iron, and maintain a separate storage unit to store them after use.

Appliance placement

If you want to save some space and yet make the laundry utilitarian, invest in a combined washer dryer. Make sure you have them placed near good plumbing and electrical points.

When looking to renovate your laundry room, remember to combine it with bathroom renovations so that you maintain a consistent theme across the bathroom and laundry room. Before beginning the renovation, consider what budget you wish to allocate to the job and any new things that you wish to buy for the laundry room. That will give you visibility of the overall renovation cost.

Hire a reputed home renovations contractor like Edmonton based ‘Impact Contracting’ to renovate your laundry room. As experts, they can suggest some stylish and cost-effective ideas to spruce up your laundry room in the most economic but visually appealing way.

Impact Contracting is a reputed construction company from Edmonton, specializing in high-quality bathroom and drywall construction. They are known for customized kitchen, laundry room constructions.

Tips to help plan a home renovation

Drywall Companies Edmonton

It is both an exciting and daunting endeavour to take on a home renovation project, which is why careful budgeting and research is so important before beginning. It is important to keep a few things in mind so that a bit of tweaking does not turn into an unmanageable project.

Don’t underestimate the price tag

Data collected from TrustedPros.ca about more than two million users’ search behaviour and project posts shows that homeowners consistently set unrealistically low budgets for common renovation projects. People see a price range and assume their project can be done on the lower end without consideration for labour costs, size of space, and high-end materials.

Don’t go overboard

A little goes a long way. Many homeowners assume they need to spend the big bucks on upscale finishes to add value to their home. But, home renovations rarely offer a dollar for dollar return. Usually, the best returns are made on the least expensive updates like replacing your garage or front door. Be honest with yourself and don’t think of a reno as investing money when, really, it is spending money.

Be realistic

There are a few things you can do to make sure your vision matches your budget:

  • Get multiple quotes

Interview multiple contractors before choosing one. Ensure you are both on the same page about costs and expectations.

  • Stop comparing your home to the ones on HGTV

The magic of TV has led many of us to believe that projects can be done well in just two weeks. In reality, these shows are better suited as sources of inspiration rather than a blueprint of how renovations will be.

  • Answer questions honestly

Are you handy? If so, you could cut costs by doing some work yourself. But, be honest with yourself. Make sure you really have the skill and time to take on major projects.

  • Always add more

No matter how well you do your research, there are always extra costs. Most contractors suggest a contingency fund between 10 - 20% just in case.

Financial options

Like any type of spending, paying for a renovation should ideally be done with savings as you are more likely to stay on budget and avoid debt. Although, there are other options for people who don’t have all the money saved up:

  • Use rebates

Consider making upgrades with energy efficiency in mind - it is great for the environment and your wallet. You will first need to have an energy audit done, which can cost between $200-1000 depending on your city and home. Once you complete the improvements though, you could get as much as $10,000 back.

  • Use a home line of credit

The advantage of this type of loan over a standard one is that it is backed by an asset. This allows the lender to offer it with a lower interest, usually prime + or - 1%.

  • Don’t rely on credit

If you must, you could refinance your mortgage to pay for the renovation. It is not the best option, but it is certainly better than relying on credit cards. They come with much higher interest rates, meaning you pay an outrageous premium.

Be patient

Putting a project on hold gives you more time to save money giving you more options for your home renovation. It also means not going into debt for something that may likely not give you a return on the dollars you spend. A hasty, under-funded reno could devalue your home and add little benefit to your home life.

Since 2007, Impact Contracting has been providing a full suite of general contracting services in Edmonton and throughout Alberta. Specializing in commercial and industrial interiors, we take a modern approach to our work, which includes renovations, restorations, conversions and additions. We are located in Edmonton, Alberta. You can also call us for more information.

5 Common Home Renovation Blunders

Commercial Builders Edmonton

Whether you just bought a home or been living in your property for a while, there are a few renovation blunders that homeowners make that you shouldn’t follow. For instance, don’t start renovations as soon as you enter a new home. Living in it for a while gives you a better idea of what to focus on. Get familiar with the neighborhood and furniture stores. Get familiar with your home too. You may want to look at other areas to renovate. If you wait a while, you can make an informed choice with a better idea where to buy your upgrades from. You may also want to consult a professional for a superior finish than attempting to do everything yourself in haste.

Here are a few more common mistakes that you may want to keep in mind so you can avoid them.

5 Home Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring the Kitchen and Bathroom: It’s a common mistake to pay attention to living room upgrades and overlook the most used areas in the house - the kitchen and the bathrooms. It helps to remember that an updated kitchen and bathrooms add considerably to your home’s resale value. Don’t miss out these spaces.

  • Spending Excessively on Unnecessary Areas: Kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures are better when upgraded. If you invest in the latest eco-friendly versions, you may cut costs and have more functional appliances. However, avoid spending more than you should on areas where you don’t need too. Don’t overspend on expensive bathroom tiles for instance and cut costs on floors by installing laminate instead of hardwood.

  • Avoid a Complete Overhaul: Keep home renovation simple. Replace an outdated vanity with a new one instead of going for a complete bathroom overhaul. Don’t replace the tiles just yet if they are in good condition. That will save you time, effort and costs.

  • Don’t Overlook Curb Appeal: While interiors matter, the exterior of your home is just as important. You don’t want guests walking into an unkempt front yard. It ruins the first impression of your home and invites unwanted pests and rodents to find their way in. Make sure your home is well landscaped to keep it beautiful, neat and clean inside out.

  • Don’t Lose the Character of Your Home: This is extremely important. It may be convenient to replace old fixtures with modern ones but you may lose the character of your home. If you are unsure of how to blend styles while upgrading, simply call a home renovation experts for ideas and inputs. Professionals will streamline the project to create the best version of your vision. They are connected with qualified vendors who can offer a better deal on fixtures and furniture to fit it all within your budget.

Impact Demolition and Contracting, Edmonton

Since 2007, Impact Demolition and Contracting has been providing a full suite of general contracting services in Edmonton and throughout Alberta. If you are thinking of renovations, restorations, innovations or additions, we are happy to work with you to build your dream interior on time and budget. Give us a call for a professional eye and hand.