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<channel><title><![CDATA[Marcraft Homes Luxury Home Builders Vancouver BC - News]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news]]></link><description><![CDATA[News]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:08:11 -0800</pubDate><generator>EditMySite</generator><item><title><![CDATA[Marcraft Homes announces the sale of TEN80 a luxury net zero custom built home - A record breaking sale in the Tri Cities and Anmore, BC .]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/marcraft-homes-announces-the-sale-of-ten80-a-luxury-net-zero-custom-built-home-a-record-breaking-sale-in-the-tri-cities-and-anmore-bc]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/marcraft-homes-announces-the-sale-of-ten80-a-luxury-net-zero-custom-built-home-a-record-breaking-sale-in-the-tri-cities-and-anmore-bc#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2020 15:27:38 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/marcraft-homes-announces-the-sale-of-ten80-a-luxury-net-zero-custom-built-home-a-record-breaking-sale-in-the-tri-cities-and-anmore-bc</guid><description><![CDATA[Marcraft is please to announce the sale of TEN80 a luxury custom net zero built home.&nbsp;&#8203;This home was a labour of love built by Marcraft &amp; Zimal Homes with the idea of building a home that provides elegance and beauty while keeping the need for the future of our environment and the building of net zero homes in mind.&nbsp;&nbsp;Creating the tag line for this home &ldquo; Building Beyond Luxury &ldquo;.&nbsp;   	 		 			 				 					 						  At first encounter the exterior design is br [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Marcraft is please to announce the sale of TEN80 a luxury custom net zero built home.&nbsp;<br /><br />&#8203;This home was a labour of love built by Marcraft &amp; Zimal Homes with the idea of building a home that provides elegance and beauty while keeping the need for the future of our environment and the building of net zero homes in mind.&nbsp;<br /><br />&nbsp;Creating the tag line for this home &ldquo; Building Beyond Luxury &ldquo;.&nbsp;<br /><br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">At first encounter the exterior design is breathtaking; it will intrigue you with its formidable design and presence, spectacular decks and outdoor living space. The vast bespoke windows throughout the residence flood the inside with natural daylight and bestowing panoramic views. Built to the highest quality with unsurpassed&nbsp;attention to detail and no expense spared, the timeless design, construction and finishing of this unique and sophisticated residence will leave you speechless.<br />&#8203;</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:right"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/editor/q1a0574-2-orig.jpg?1603121424" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">What does Building Beyond Luxury mean?&nbsp;</h2>  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;Advance your idea of home. There are many established expectations associated with a high-end luxury residence. It's where one finds unsurpassed quality, sought- after appliances, imported woods, granite, lighting, innovative architecture and creative design.&nbsp; All these features attest to exquisite taste and acumen.&nbsp;TEN80 delivers on this in abundance.<br />However, building beyond luxury not only means that every detail in the home has been crafted to perfection, but the process itself of building has been elevated to a new standard. TEN80 integrates leading-edge construction practices that maximize energy efficiency to deliver a truly smart energy efficient home that reduces the impact on our environment. Incorporating unmatched technology such as Tesla 2 power walls, water recovery systems, solar heating panels, achieving R30 and R62 insulation in walls, ceiling systems that far exceed building code requirements, spectacular European windows and doors representing insulation factors four times greater than windows offered in the West Coast today, TEN80 introduces a new standard of building in Vancouver. This is a statement of what can be achieved when we set out with the pure and unwavering vision&nbsp;of melding true luxury with efficiency.<br /><br />Designed to inspire with style beyond compare, this Mountain Contemporary home is positioned to lead the way towards sustainable building and environmental awareness for communities throughout the West Coast. Zimal Homes and Marcraft Homes pride themselves in building luxury homes with conscience.&nbsp;TEN80 is Building Beyond Luxury.&nbsp;<br /><br />For more details and to learn about the story visit: <a href="http://www.ten80uplands.com/" target="_blank">http://www.ten80uplands.com</a><br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br /><br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to Choose the Right Color Palette for your Home]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/how-to-choose-the-right-color-palette-for-your-home]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/how-to-choose-the-right-color-palette-for-your-home#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 08 Nov 2017 21:32:33 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[INTERIOR DESIGN]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/how-to-choose-the-right-color-palette-for-your-home</guid><description><![CDATA[By&nbsp;Jessica&nbsp;in&nbsp;Freshome's Very BestEvery details count into making a house, home. Colour plays a huge role in shaping the energy of a room, which is why it&rsquo;s one of the first things we often consider when decorating a home. Here are a few major things to consider before painting your homes and choosing furnitures:  Find your Color scheme  Use your color wheel to help you create your own colour scheme that best fit your your personality.&nbsp;There are 4 kinds of possible colo [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><font size="2"><span style="color:rgb(155, 155, 155)">By&nbsp;<a href="https://freshome.com/author/jessica/">Jessica</a></span></font><span style="color:rgb(155, 155, 155)"><font size="2">&nbsp;in&nbsp;</font><a href="https://freshome.com/freshomes-very-best/"><font size="2">Freshome's Very Best</font></a></span><br />Every details count into making a house, home. Colour plays a huge role in shaping the energy of a room, which is why it&rsquo;s one of the first things we often consider when decorating a home. Here are a few major things to consider before painting your homes and choosing furnitures:</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Find your Color scheme</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span>Use your color wheel to help you create your own colour scheme that best fit your your personality.&nbsp;</span><span>There are 4 kinds of possible color schemes:</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -0px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:55.475113122172%; padding:0 0px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/novemberblogimage1.jpg?1510177989" alt="Picture" style="width:584;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:44.524886877828%; padding:0 0px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><ul><li><strong>Monochromatic.</strong> The monochromatic colour scheme uses tone on tone of the same colour with the addition of white or black to lighten or darken the colour. For example, in this scheme blue can become a pale sky blue or a dark midnight blue and all three hues of the same shade are used to create this effect.</li><li><strong>Analogous.</strong> The analogous scheme uses colorus that appear next to each other on the colour wheel. For example yellow will be used with green or orange, or blue will be used with green or purple. This creates a colourful and often soothing palette.</li></ul></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div class="paragraph"><ul><li><strong>Contrast.</strong>&nbsp;The contrast scheme is more dramatic. Here a triad of contrasting colours are used, such as yellow-orange, green-blue and red-purple. This introduces more colour and energy into your home&rsquo;s palette.</li><li><strong>Complementary.</strong>&nbsp;Lastly we have the complementary scheme where two opposing colours, such as blue and orange, are used together to create a dramatic, bold and high energy colour&nbsp;scheme.</li></ul></div>  <div class="paragraph">We will caution against selecting your wall colour first. Wall paints are inexpensive and can be created in any colour and in any hue you desire. It&rsquo;s best to start with harder to find items such as furniture and rugs or carpets. Once you&rsquo;ve selected your furnishings you can then move on to wall colour.<br />&#8203;<br />You may decide that you&rsquo;d prefer your color not to be on your walls, but in your accessories or furnishings instead. Many people prefer this. Others, conversely, prefer more neutral furnishings contrasted by bold and powerful walls.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:47.330316742081%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/novemberblogimage2.jpg?1510178109" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:52.669683257919%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Consider Lighting</h2>  <div class="paragraph">Lighting is an important aspect of all decor and function within the home and should never be overlooked. Light reflects and deflects colour, changing it constantly, throughout the day. A room&rsquo;s truest colours are those found in the daylight hours and the hues will alter throughout the day and the seasons as the lighting changes. Different lightings can change the appearance of colour as well. Indigo, for example can appear bluer in one room and have much more red in another.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Are you ready to commit?</h2>  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;You love the idea of infusing your space with colour, but you&rsquo;re not really quite ready to add it to your walls. There are plenty of ways to add splashes of colour to your home. If you keep your walls neutral &ndash; pale beiges, sands, ivories, greys and whites &ndash; you can bring colour in with rugs, furniture, lamps, pillows, throws and artwork, flowers, and fresh fruit. You may also consider painting your ceiling or an accent wall.</div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Before using colours and imaginations to decorate your home, are you thinking of doing some renovations first? Marcraft Homes have years of experience creating a beautiful space for different areas of your homes. Whether you're thinking of renovating one part of your house, or the whole house, we are here for you. Call now to chat with us about your ideas!</div>  <div style="text-align:left;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="tel:6044612560" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">Call now</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Check Yourself: 7 Home Maintenance Tasks You Should Tackle in October]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/check-yourself-7-home-maintenance-tasks-you-should-tackle-in-october]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/check-yourself-7-home-maintenance-tasks-you-should-tackle-in-october#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 13 Oct 2017 16:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[HOME MAINTENANCE]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/check-yourself-7-home-maintenance-tasks-you-should-tackle-in-october</guid><description><![CDATA[By Holly Amaya at Realtor.com  Ah, October. Temperatures are dropping, the days are growing shorter, and the pumpkin spice latte is, in a word, inescapable. But before you go hog wild with the Halloween decorations and settle in for that horror movie binge session, take&nbsp;some time&nbsp;to prep your home for winter's onslaught (buzzkill, we know!).Luckily, we're here to make it&nbsp;a breeze with our handy checklist of home maintenance chores to tackle this month.&nbsp;Some of these are so qu [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span>By <a href="https://www.realtor.com/author/holly-amaya"><span>Holly Amaya</span></a></span> at <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/home-maintenance-checklist-october/" target="_blank">Realtor.com</a><br /></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Ah, October. Temperatures are dropping, the days are growing shorter, and the pumpkin spice latte is, in a word, inescapable. But before you go hog wild with the Halloween decorations and settle in for that horror movie binge session, take&nbsp;some time&nbsp;to prep your home for winter's onslaught (buzzkill, we know!).<br /><br />Luckily, we're here to make it&nbsp;a breeze with our handy checklist of home maintenance chores to tackle this month.&nbsp;Some of these are so quick and easy that you won't even miss a beat of that "Friday the 13th" marathon (although we'd recommend skipping "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0211443/" target="_blank">Jason X</a>." He's in space&mdash;do we need to say more?) Read on for details about&nbsp;where to start.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/laundryvent.jpeg?1507836839" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">1. Clean your dryer vents<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">This one's a lot more serious than it sounds.&nbsp;Excess lint can dramatically increase the <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/house-fire-risks-prevention/" target="_blank">risk of fire</a>.<br /><br />"A key indicator of a dryer vent needing to be cleaned is if clothes aren&rsquo;t drying as fast as they usually do, or if it takes multiple cycles to get them completely dry," says <strong>Maria Vizzi</strong> of Indoor Environmental Solutions.<br /><br />Prevent buildup from the get-go by emptying your lint trap every single time you use your dryer. If possible, move your dryer closer to an exterior wall; if your vent pipe is particularly long or has to snake around corners, you're at a greater risk of a clog.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/sealing.jpeg?1507836877" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">2. Seal your outdoor surfaces<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Cold temperatures and snow can cause your paint to peel, leading to moisture intrusion and wood rot, says <strong>Brian Osterried</strong>, a product manager at paint company PPG. Protect your exterior surfaces by applying a stain and sealant.<br /><br />Clean the surface first&mdash;taking care to remove any built-up ickiness between planks or in crevices&mdash;using a screwdriver or putty knife.<br /><br />Wait at least 48 hours before sanding the surface using 80-grit sandpaper, then sweep or vacuum, and apply your sealant.<br /></div>  <div>  <!--BLOG_SUMMARY_END--></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/green-covered-patio-furniture-ideas-on-a-budget.jpeg?1507837163" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">3. Store your yard furniture<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">The fastest way to make your <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/outdoor-furniture-buying-mistakes/" target="_blank">outdoor furniture</a> look faded is to leave it out in the elements. Store your grill, deck chairs, and outdoor set in a shed or garage.<br /><br /><strong>Shortcut: </strong>If you don&rsquo;t have the storage space, invest in durable covers for your furniture to protect it from snow and rain.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/hosecoiled.jpeg?1507837333" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">4. Stow that&nbsp;hose<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">It's a good idea to drain and store your garden hose before temps&nbsp;start significantly dropping."<br /><br />Hoses with water in them will freeze and burst," says <strong>Lisa Turner</strong>, author of "House Keys: Tips and Tricks from a Female Home Inspector."<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/dustingcleaning.jpeg?1507837039" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">5. Do a 'fall&nbsp;cleaning'</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">"Open those windows up wide and do a thorough fall cleaning of your home that includes dusting areas that <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/household-items-never-clean-but-should/" target="_blank">don&rsquo;t always make the cut</a>, like ceiling fans and ceiling corners," says home organization expert&nbsp;<strong>Marty&nbsp;Basher. </strong><br /><br />Wash your draperies, dust your blinds, remove your window screens, and wash the windows inside and out.<br /><br />Now is also a good time to have your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned to rid them of dust and other allergens (you should do this once a year).<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/seedinggarden.jpeg?1507837081" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">6. Feed and seed your lawn</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">"After a long, hot summer your lawn could probably use a bit of extra TLC, and seeding is proven to be the most effective way to repair damage," says <strong>Bryan Raehl</strong>, general manager of Agronomic Lawn Management in Virginia Beach, VA.<br /><br />Plus, by seeding now&mdash;before the first frost of the season&mdash;you can allow seeds to begin taking root in the soil and get a jump on <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/lawn-care-mistakes/" target="_blank">spring growth</a>.<br /><br />Choose a seed for your lawn that's right for your budget and your geographic region. You can complete a soil test, which will allow you to measure your soil's health and nutrients, using a DIY kit. You'll then have to prepare your lawn, lay the seeds by hand or using a spreader, and water.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/gutters.jpeg?1507837111" alt="Picture" style="width:1075;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">7. Inspect your gutters and downspouts</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/5-tips-to-get-your-roofs-and-gutters-ready-for-fall" target="_blank">Maintaining gutters</a> and downspouts, which direct water away from your home, can go a long way toward preventing catastrophic roof leaks&mdash;especially if you live in an older home. This is particularly important during autumn, since it's prime time for those gutters to get clogged with fallen leaves and twigs.<br /><br />If you're comfortable shimmying onto&nbsp;the roof, grab a ladder and have at it. Clear leaves, dirt, and pine needles from gutters, and examine downspouts for damage or loose pieces. Use a hose to flush out small bits of debris, and check the underside of the gutter to ensure no water leaks through. Inspect the downspout to verify that water is running freely through it and away from your home.&nbsp;Then inspect the flashing around your chimney and any openings in the roof (like skylights) for leaks.<br /></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:center;"><font color="#97b480"><em>We hope you enjoyed these tips! If you're planning to renovate or build a new home, contact us today!</em></font><br /></div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">Contact us</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ideas to Creating a Spooky Entryway for Halloween]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/creating-a-spooky-entryway-for-halloween]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/creating-a-spooky-entryway-for-halloween#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/creating-a-spooky-entryway-for-halloween</guid><description><![CDATA[by Cheryl DeBartolo&nbsp;The House Designers&rsquo;&nbsp;Contributing Writer  Halloween is approaching in 4 weeks, whether you go for subtlety with a few pumpkins and scarecrows or you go all out with your decorations, here are some tips to inspire you:   	 		 			 				 					 						          					 								 					 						  &#8203;1. Paint Your Door  A paintable door is a subtle way to change your home&rsquo;s exterior and to get your porch to say welcome to family and neighbours. You can easily chan [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">by Cheryl DeBartolo&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">The House Designers&rsquo;&nbsp;</em><span style="color:rgb(34, 34, 34)">Contributing Writer</span></div>  <div class="paragraph">Halloween is approaching in 4 weeks, whether you go for subtlety with a few pumpkins and scarecrows or you go all out with your decorations, here are some tips to inspire you:</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:48.41628959276%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/blogimage.jpg?1507072549" alt="Picture" style="width:459;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:51.58371040724%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><br />&#8203;1. Paint Your Door</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">A paintable door is a subtle way to change your home&rsquo;s exterior and to get your porch to say welcome to family and neighbours. You can easily change the colour of a door with a paintable surface. If you paint your door a solid colour it can serve as a canvas for other decorations including wreaths and wall clings. When deciding on what colour you would like to apply, think about how that colour will look in a few different settings: morning, daytime and evening.<br />&#8203;<br /></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">2. Have a good and warm lighting<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Lighting is a key element to any good landscape but it is especially important during fall and winter when it's darker out. A well-lit path will guide trick-or-treaters to your doorway and minimize the risk of injury. Good lighting doesn&rsquo;t have to be Halloween themed, in fact you can achieve great Halloween lighting simply by picking outdoor light fixtures you love already. Get creative and put those lights on some Halloween buckets, near the plants and on the pathways.<br /></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:56.651583710407%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:98px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">3. Use What You Have Around the House<br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph">Decorating for Halloween doesn&rsquo;t have to be an expense. There are plenty of easy DIY decorations that you can craft. Find some ideas on Pinterest to inspire you. You can create ghosts to hang in the trees around your home, or create a scarecrow out of used clothing to sit on your front porch. <br /><br />&#8203;Wanting to add on some extra lights, flame-less candles can be a safe way to make sure that you maintain the ambiance while keeping the fire lit.</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:43.348416289593%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/published/blogimage2.jpg?1507072687" alt="Picture" style="width:321;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">4. Give Your Garden a Gruesome Graveyard</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/halloween-decorations_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><br />With&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/p/808661/boneyard-set-of-4-tombstones" target="_blank">foam gravestones</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/p/806911/3-realistic-skeleton" target="_blank">skeletons</a>, it&rsquo;s easy to build a fake cemetery right on your lawn. Skewer the tombstones into the ground so they don&rsquo;t blow over, and cover bones with mounds of dirt or straw to make it look like they&rsquo;re half-buried, rising from the dead. A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/p/64189/1000-watt-fogger" target="_blank">fog machine</a>&nbsp;and some creative&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/c/decorations-party-supplies/lighting-special-effects" target="_blank">outdoor lighting</a>&nbsp;can conceal the illusion even better.<br />&#8203;<br />You can make&nbsp;a scene like this look&nbsp;really gory, with splatters of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/p/2099/hollywood-gel-blood-1-oz" target="_blank">fake blood</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.buycostumes.com/p/809898/latex-crawling-zombie" target="_blank">severed zombie limbs</a>.&nbsp;If you&rsquo;re into creating haunted houses for adults, this can be the perfect&nbsp;addition to your decorations.<br /><br />&#8203;Or, if you&rsquo;re decorating your&nbsp;front lawn for all the trick-or-treaters (and their parents) to see, you can go with a tamer, but still spooky, set-up, like we&rsquo;ve done here.</div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:center;">If you would like to do a more extensive renovation on your porch, entryway and other parts of your home, we're here for you! <br />&#8203;Book with us before the holiday and have&nbsp; some renovations done to welcome your family and loved ones.</div>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">BOOK A CONSULTATION</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 Tips to Get Your Roof and Gutters Ready for Fall]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/5-tips-to-get-your-roofs-and-gutters-ready-for-fall]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/5-tips-to-get-your-roofs-and-gutters-ready-for-fall#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[HOME MAINTENANCE]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/5-tips-to-get-your-roofs-and-gutters-ready-for-fall</guid><description><![CDATA[If you are fortunate enough to have a detached home with a roof, you better get it ready for the colder months ahead. Fall is the season when gutters are needed to be cleaned out in preparation for the rainy or snowy season that&rsquo;s about to come. If the rainwater doesn&rsquo;t flow properly through the gutter and downspout system, costly repairs can add up from rainwater damage or freezing.  Here are some tips and things to watch for when cleaning your Roof and gutters:   	 		 			 				 				 [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">If you are fortunate enough to have a detached home with a roof, you better get it ready for the colder months ahead. Fall is the season when gutters are needed to be cleaned out in preparation for the rainy or snowy season that&rsquo;s about to come. If the rainwater doesn&rsquo;t flow <strong>properly through the gutter and downspout system, costly repairs can add up from rainwater damage or freezing.</strong><br /></div>  <div class="paragraph">Here are some tips and things to watch for when cleaning your Roof and gutters:</div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:30.588235294118%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/editor/fall-roof-inspection-940x491-1-940x480_1.jpeg?1505931771" alt="Picture" style="width:495;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:69.411764705882%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><strong>1.</strong> <strong>Scoop out loose debris and leaves.</strong></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">You can start by using a narrow garden trowel or a gutter scoop to scoop out those loose debris and leaves working away from your drain outlets. You can then scoop them out to a plastic bag to minimize cleaning afterwards.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;"><strong>2. Use a high-pressure hose to clean mud out of the gutter.</strong></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">&nbsp;Work the hose and try avoiding splash into your balcony or garden. Use brush if necessary and work them towards the drain outlets.<br /></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><strong>3. Inspect any leaks or damages.</strong></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Be sure your downspouts expel water well away from your house. If necessary, add downspout extenders to carry the water away. Considering Vancouver heavy rain, you may want to have your downspouts run into a dry well. Also check downspouts for rust, flaking, or peeling paint, plus leaks, and make sure they are affixed tightly against the fascia boards.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:68.235294117647%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><strong>4. Watch for moss or algae.</strong><br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Moss thrives in a damp, shady environment. For this reason it often grows well on the north side of a roof or under overhanging trees that provide shade. Over time it can cause your roof to break down. You can try pressure-washer when needed, just make sure that you don&rsquo;t overdo it. Professional moss cleaner</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title"><strong>5. Evaluate roof shingles.</strong><br /></h2>  <div class="paragraph">If your roof is more than 20 years old, most shingles can already be worn, check if it&rsquo;s time to replace them. Have a look at them closely and decide if gluing them will do the job or you need to repair or replace the cracked ones. When you decide to do this, it&rsquo;s better to find a warm, dry afternoon and make sure you give them time to dry.</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:31.764705882353%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/fh08feb-repshi-01-2_1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">After checking all the things above, you also have the option to hire a professional. They ranges in price but definitely not too expensive for peace of mind.<br /><br />Hope you enjoy these tips, if you are looking to renovate your home or build a new home, get in touch with us.</div>  <div style="text-align:left;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">BOOK A CONSULTATION</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[4 Important Custom Built Home Benefits VS Buying An Existing Home]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/4-important-custom-built-home-benefits-vs-buying-an-existing-home]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/4-important-custom-built-home-benefits-vs-buying-an-existing-home#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 09 Aug 2017 21:50:20 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[4 Important Custom Built Home Benefits VS Buying An Existing Home]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/4-important-custom-built-home-benefits-vs-buying-an-existing-home</guid><description><![CDATA[If you are like many considering a move to your dream home, careful consideration about what you will need to have in that home is essential to avoiding disappointment later.&#8203;For most in this situation, the decision about finding and purchasing a home &ldquo;that has everything&rdquo; or building a custom home to your specifications is something you are trying to evaluate. With that in mind, here are 4 important custom built home benefits to consider.  1. PROCESS   	 		 			 				 					 				 [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">If you are like many considering a move to your dream home, careful consideration about what you will need to have in that home is essential to avoiding disappointment later.<br />&#8203;<br />For most in this situation, the decision about finding and purchasing a home &ldquo;that has everything&rdquo; or building a custom home to your specifications is something you are trying to evaluate. With that in mind, here are 4 important custom built home benefits to consider.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">1. PROCESS</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">If you are going to go the route of building your dream home, one of the most important considerations you make will be finding a custom home builder you feel comfortable with to design and construct your new home. Interview and research your custom home builder's choices to make sure they have a solid process to follow&ndash;including choosing the lot, loan information, what to expect during each phase, and so on. As a 9 time Georgie Award Finalist and Georgie Award Winner for Custom Home Builder of the year,&nbsp;we know taking the stress out of the new home building process is vital. Marcraft Homes have a smooth process honed by our many years of experience.</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/1055-heron-way-anmore-bc-canada-buyric-gallery-932-0011_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">2. CHOICE</h2>  <div class="paragraph">&#8203;<span style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)">One of the most significant benefits of building a custom home is the choices that you get to make. You and the design team can pick everything from the lot to build on to the appliances, cabinetry, trim and colours. Not making do with something &ldquo;close&rdquo; to what you have in mind. You can select everything you want (within budget of course). This also means you can make choices that make the most of your budget.</span></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:23px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">3. A HOME THAT REFLECTS YOUR PERSONALITY</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:10px;text-align:left"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/02-the-terraces-anmore-1840-edit-1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)">When you build a custom home, you and the design team create a home that is a direct reflection of you and your personality. At Marcraft Homes, our clients meet with our designer early in the building process to determine house plans with the guiding principle that they &ldquo;must reflect their personality.&rdquo; This includes utilizing pieces and design matching family, personal experience and travels to tell your story and make your home visually interesting. Simply put, a custom built home is designed specifically to reflect you.</span></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:28px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">4. FUNCTIONALITY</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)">Purchasing a pre-existing home often means accepting unusable space that doesn&rsquo;t fit with your vision, or that you don&rsquo;t understand what the original intent was for the space. With a custom home, the design can accommodate your desires, often times actually creating space. A custom home builder will help you make your space as functional as possible while&nbsp;realizing your vision for your dream home.<br /><br />&#8203;</span><span>Finally, as you make this vital decision, remember that the most important thing is to end up with home of your dreams. We may be biased on this point, but we believe that a custom built home is the best way to realize your vision, without accepting the limitations of an existing home. This is not a time to say &ldquo;close, but no cigar!&rdquo;</span><span style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)"></span><br /></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/9746333-orig-1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph">Ready to talk about building a custom home? We&rsquo;re happy to offer a free consultation to answer your questions and guide your decision.&nbsp;</div>  <div style="text-align:left;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">book a consultation</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[9 Tips To Conserve Energy This Summer]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/9-tips-to-conserve-energy-this-summer]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/9-tips-to-conserve-energy-this-summer#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 09 Aug 2017 20:56:58 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[9 Tips To Conserve Energy This Summer]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/9-tips-to-conserve-energy-this-summer</guid><description><![CDATA[Summer is here! And that means high energy bills if you don&rsquo;t know how to conserve energy. &nbsp;At Marcraft Homes, we use energy saving building techniques in our custom homes, but there are still some fundamental ways to conserve energy.  &#8203;9 Ways You Can Conserve Energy And Keep Those Bills Under Control   	 		 			 				 					 						  Switch your ceiling fans to the&nbsp;counter-clockwise direction for&nbsp;the summer. You can turn it back&nbsp;clockwise in the winter at a low speed [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)">Summer is here! And that means high energy bills if you don&rsquo;t know how to conserve energy. &nbsp;At Marcraft Homes, we use energy saving building techniques in our custom homes, but there are still some fundamental ways to conserve energy.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;9 Ways You Can Conserve Energy And Keep Those Bills Under Control</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><ol style="color:rgb(92, 84, 85)"><li>Switch your ceiling fans to the&nbsp;counter-clockwise direction for&nbsp;the summer. You can turn it back&nbsp;clockwise in the winter at a low speed.</li><li>Use your ceiling fans instead of air conditioning when you can.</li><li>Install ceiling fans in every room in your home.</li><li>Change the filters on your air condition as often as recommended by the manufacturer</li><li>Close unused air vents for rooms that you are not using.</li><li>Set your thermostat switch to auto to save energy so that it only runs when it needs to.&#8203;</li><li>Consider a programmable thermostat that you can control from your phone to manage temperatures in your home</li><li>Keep you home from overheating. Tint your windows, use shades, blinds and drapes.</li><li>Open interior doors to allow air to flow freely through your home.</li></ol></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:59px;"></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/top-tips-to-save-energy-at-home_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>There you have it 9 ways you can conserve energy and keep a lid on the energy bills in the process!</span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Avoid These 6 Major Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Mover]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/avoid-these-6-major-mistakes-people-make-when-hiring-a-mover]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/avoid-these-6-major-mistakes-people-make-when-hiring-a-mover#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 20 Jul 2017 20:48:49 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/avoid-these-6-major-mistakes-people-make-when-hiring-a-mover</guid><description><![CDATA[Let's get&nbsp;real: Moving is stressful. And when you're busy finding a new place to live, selling your current home, and then packing up your entire life,&nbsp;selecting the crew who will move your stuff&nbsp;is likely last on your to-do list. That's ironic, because&nbsp;you'll be&nbsp;entrusting them with all your life's possessions.Even if you manage to hook up with the most amazing moving company ever, they can't promise bad stuff won't happen. But you&nbsp;can&nbsp;prevent some unnecessary [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph">Let's get&nbsp;real: Moving is stressful. And when you're busy finding a new place to live, selling your current home, and then packing up your entire life,&nbsp;selecting the crew who will move your stuff&nbsp;is likely last on your to-do list. That's ironic, because&nbsp;you'll be&nbsp;entrusting them with all your life's possessions.<br /><br />Even if you manage to hook up with the most amazing moving company ever, they can't promise bad stuff won't happen. But you&nbsp;<em>can</em>&nbsp;prevent some unnecessary duress if you have the right team in place. The process starts by schooling yourself in what not to do. <br /><br />&#8203;Read on for the top mistakes people make when hiring a mover.</div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/1429567100-moving-truck_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:37px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;1. Waiting too long</h2>  <div class="paragraph">So you wait until the weekend before your move to make those calls to moving companies&mdash;after all, who cares? Well, if you procrastinate on your search, you won't leave any time to do adequate research and get estimates. That means you might not get the best rate (spoiler:&nbsp;Moving's expensive!), and worse&mdash;you could get scammed.<br /></div>  <blockquote><span>"There are times when last-minute booking can&rsquo;t be avoided, but frequently it's just a task that's put off too long, delaying selecting a mover can reduce your options&mdash;and unfortunately, unlicensed and unethical operators rely on this aspect of human nature to take advantage of consumers."</span></blockquote>  <div class="paragraph"><span>Take the time to get three in-home written estimates, we recommend&mdash; time permitted, visit the moving company in advance of making your final decision.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;2. Being a total cheapskate</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:51.58371040724%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph">No, you don't want to pay more than you have to for a move. But beware of being&nbsp;<em>too</em>&nbsp;budget-conscious.<br /><br />"The largest mistake you can make is going with the cheapest estimate, the cheapest bid typically means that the company uses casual, inexperienced labourers who don't care a whole lot about your things."<br /><br />Conversely, higher-end estimates almost always assure trained, professional, and experienced crews who will show up, smiles on their faces, and move your stuff safely and efficiently.<br /><br /></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:48.41628959276%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:right"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/movers_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="paragraph"><span>In other words: "If there is a hiccup, they will figure it out, they're not leaving your stuff on the&nbsp;front lawn. Disreputable movers often lure customers with lowball prices and then hit them with unreasonable charges or, in extreme cases, even hold their belongings for ransom."&nbsp;Yikes.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;3. Not asking the right questions beforehand</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span>A professional mover will be happy to answer any questions you may have, so if they seem uncertain or won&rsquo;t give you straight answers, that&rsquo;s probably a mover to avoid.</span><br /><br /><span>&#8203;Ask them about the moving process so you understand what they will be doing and when they will be doing it, from start to finish.</span><br /><span>Ask the following questions&nbsp;</span><em>before</em><span>&nbsp;selecting a moving company:</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/best-movers_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><ul style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)"><li>Are you licensed and insured?</li><li>Are you a certified professional mover who meets the standards of the American Moving &amp; Storage Association?</li><li>Are you a member of your state&rsquo;s moving association?</li><li>What price are you willing to put in writing as a "not to exceed" threshold price?</li><li>What are the dates you can commit to for pickup and delivery for my move?</li><li>Can you give me some references of people you have recently moved?</li><li>How are your crews selected?</li><li>What actions do you take to ensure that the people who come into my home are skilled, professional, and safe?</li></ul></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;4. Falling for fakes</h2>  <div class="paragraph">The internet is awesome. right? Whether you're looking for&nbsp;comprehensive info on the best mortgage rates, or you simply must know immediately why&nbsp;your dog's paws smell like corn chips, the web&nbsp;is there for you.<br /><br />And it's there for you&nbsp;to find your next mover, too. But we shouldn't have to tell you that online info&nbsp;can lead you astray. Double check your info by getting moving company referrals from an industry trade association or use a&nbsp;site that verifies and vets moving companies.<br /><br />Another word of caution: Beware of blindly trusting that the company you're hiring is who it says it is: "Some disreputable movers try to lure customers in by using names that are similar to reputable companies. Check the reputable company's website to make sure the local agent is affiliated with the brand name it is claiming." Also be warned to carefully consider low estimates from a company that hasn't been in business long&mdash;even if its&nbsp;Yelp profile seems solid.<br /></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph"><span>"Responsible moving companies will provide in-home estimates and explain why the pricing is the way it is," The lack of a physical, local address is a telltale sign of a fake mover. Here are other red flags:</span><ul style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)"><li>No federal motor carrier number, which shows the mover is&nbsp;registered with the federal government for a state-to-state move</li><li>Movers who refuses to visit your home to provide a written estimate for an interstate move</li><li>Companies that use unmarked, generic trucks</li><li>Movers who seem uncertain or unresponsive, especially when asked about their claims process if something gets damaged or lost</li></ul></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/hire-professional-mover_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">&#8203;5. Agreeing to pay&nbsp;a deposit or pay in cash</h2>  <div class="paragraph">If you're moving across town, this one's a huge red flag.<br /><br />"Typically you should not be required to pay a deposit to have your items moved, most companies request payment at the time of delivery." If you're moving out of province, your moving company&nbsp;<em>could</em>&nbsp;request a deposit. But make sure it's reasonable. Avoid movers that demand&nbsp;cash instead of allowing payment by credit card.</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Advanced Floor Care: How to Polish Hardwood Floors]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/advanced-floor-care-how-to-polish-hardwood-floors]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/advanced-floor-care-how-to-polish-hardwood-floors#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Fri, 07 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Advanced Floor Care: How to Polish Hardwood Floors]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/advanced-floor-care-how-to-polish-hardwood-floors</guid><description><![CDATA[&#8203;What You Need to Know  An important part of hardwood floor maintenance, learning how to polish hardwood floors yourself adds extra beauty, shine and longevity to your floors. Applying polish on hardwood floors helps to restore a floor&rsquo;s protective layer of finish and is a simple project that can be done by most people. Learning how to polish hardwood floors yourself is a relatively quick, cheap and easy way to properly maintain hardwood floors.           Polishing vs. Refinishing  I [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">&#8203;What You Need to Know</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">An important part of hardwood floor maintenance, learning how to polish hardwood floors yourself adds extra beauty, shine and longevity to your floors. Applying polish on hardwood floors helps to restore a floor&rsquo;s protective layer of finish and is a simple project that can be done by most people. Learning how to polish hardwood floors yourself is a relatively quick, cheap and easy way to properly maintain hardwood floors.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/490125-orig_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:30px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">Polishing vs. Refinishing</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">It&rsquo;s important to know the difference between polishing a hardwood floor and refinishing one. Both tasks are similar, but when you polish a hardwood floor, you are keeping the finish that is on the floor intact&mdash;polishing a hardwood floor restores a floor&rsquo;s existing finish, filling in microscopic scratches and evening out the appearance of the floor. When you refinish a hardwood floor, you are completely removing the floor&rsquo;s existing finish and replacing it.</span></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:14px;"></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:56.923076923077%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">Advanced Tips</h2>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:13px;"></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><ol style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li>Use Bona Polish to add a protective new layer, fill in micro scratches and even out the appearance of your floor.</li><li>Always test polish in an inconspicuous section of the floor before spreading it on the entire floor.</li><li>When applying polish to your floor, use the &ldquo;feathering&rdquo; technique to ensure a smooth finish without lines or &ldquo;start and stop&rdquo; marks.</li></ol></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:43.076923076923%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/simple-recipes-to-clean-and-polish-your-wood-floors-with-all-natural-ingredients-by-little-bits-of-granola_orig.png" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:18px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">How Often Should I Clean and Polish My Floor?</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">Cleaning as often as you can will help minimize the dirt and dust on your floors that can act like sandpaper and wear your floor.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/bona-gloss-hardwood-polish-32-oz-0534219p.html" target="_blank"> Bona</a>&rsquo;s line of specially-formulated polishes can be used multiple times per year. Frequency of use depends entirely on the amount of traffic your floor sees, but typical homeowner floor maintenance is every two to four months.</span></div>  <div class="wsite-spacer" style="height:14px;"></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">How Long Will Cleaning and Polishing Take?</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/4305566-orig_1_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)">The length of time to clean and polish depends on the size of your wood floors.&nbsp; It is a very quick and easy process when using <a href="http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/bona-hardwood-floor-cleaner-0534217p.html" target="_blank">Bona Cleaner </a>and <a href="http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/bona-gloss-hardwood-polish-32-oz-0534219p.html" target="_blank">Bona Polish</a>.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><a href="http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/bona-gloss-hardwood-polish-32-oz-0534219p.html" target="_blank">Bona Polish</a> provides a protective layer and evens out the sheen. It is an incredibly simple DIY project. No special equipment is needed. Simply remove furniture and rugs, then sweep, vacuum or dust mop your floor, and give it a wet cleaning with <a href="http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/bona-hardwood-floor-cleaner-0534217p.html" target="_blank">Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner</a>. Then squirt Bona Polish onto the floor, spread it with an applicator and allow it to dry. Let it dry one hour before you walk on it, and 24 hours before subjecting it to heavy traffic.</span></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">&#8203;Prepping Your Space</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:54.389140271493%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><ol style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li>Remove all furniture and belongings in the room. Clear the area. Be cautious when moving large objects and furniture. If possible, use furniture pads to help protect the floor from accidental scratches and gouges.</li><li>Give the floors a good clean. Dust and mop your floors. Make sure the floor is completely dry before applying the polish. &nbsp;If necessary, discreetly test the polish on a small portion of the floor.</li><li>Make sure you have all the right tools. Polishes can be applied with an applicator pad or a high-density foam roller. Check the polish instructions to make sure you have all that you need to finish the job.</li></ol></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:45.610859728507%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/cleaning-vinyl-floor_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Applying the Polish</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:38.552036199095%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/cleaning-floors3_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:61.447963800905%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><ol style="color:rgb(0, 0, 0)"><li>Work in small sections. When applying the polish to your hardwood floor, work in small sections to keep the applicator pad/roller wet. Be sure to smooth out the polish along the grain of the wood.</li><li>&nbsp;Use a feathering technique. To avoid stripes of uneven polish on your floor, take a cue from interior painting and feather out the polish so that you have smooth transitions as you move from section to section.</li><li>Plan your exit. Make sure you don&rsquo;t paint yourself in a corner. Know in advance how you&rsquo;re going to break up the floor. If possible, have a helper apply polish along the perimeter of the rooms while you follow close behind.</li></ol></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <div><div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div> <hr class="styled-hr" style="width:100%;"></hr> <div style="height: 20px; overflow: hidden; width: 100%;"></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Finishing the Job</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><font color="#000000">Once you&rsquo;re finished, allow at least one hour for the polish to dry before the floor is exposed to light traffic. The polish should dry completely after 24 hours, making it ready for heavy traffic. Polishing your hardwood floor is recommended every few months, but this suggestion will vary based on how much foot traffic the floor experiences. Bona offers floor polishes and tools for hardwood, stone, tile and laminate. Hardwood furniture polish is also available to keep your rooms looking beautiful.</font></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:center;"><em>"If you can dream it...we can build it"</em></h2>  <div style="text-align:center;"><div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div> <a class="wsite-button wsite-button-small wsite-button-normal" href="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/contact.html" > <span class="wsite-button-inner">Get In Touch</span> </a> <div style="height: 10px; overflow: hidden;"></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Let's Celebrate Summer Right...How About A Backyard Bar Shed?]]></title><link><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/lets-celebrate-summer-righthow-about-a-backyard-bar-shed]]></link><comments><![CDATA[http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/lets-celebrate-summer-righthow-about-a-backyard-bar-shed#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 12 Jun 2017 17:14:32 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[How About A Backyard Bar Shed?]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.marcrafthomes.com/news/lets-celebrate-summer-righthow-about-a-backyard-bar-shed</guid><description><![CDATA[ 	 		 			 				 					 						      A surfboard bar adds a beach vibe to this bar shed.    					 								 					 						  Who wouldn't want a backyard shed?  Seriously, folks,&nbsp;outdoor living rooms&nbsp;and&nbsp;fire pits&nbsp;are fantastic, all the more so with a strategically timed whiskey smash, glass of pinot, or a cold IPA."Bar sheds are simply&nbsp;cool," says&nbsp;Brian Rhoden&nbsp;of Daniel&rsquo;s Lawn Care. "They really elevate a&nbsp;backyard to your neighborhood&rsquo;s new favorite F [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/editor/shedblue.jpg?1497287825" alt="Picture" style="width:720;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">A surfboard bar adds a beach vibe to this bar shed.</div> </div></div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">Who wouldn't want a backyard shed?</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Seriously, folks,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/how-to-create-an-outdoor-room/" target="_blank">outdoor living rooms</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/how-to-build-a-fire-pit/" target="_blank">fire pits</a>&nbsp;are fantastic, all the more so with a strategically timed whiskey smash, glass of pinot, or a cold IPA.<br /><br />"Bar sheds are simply&nbsp;<em>cool</em>," says&nbsp;<strong>Brian Rhoden</strong>&nbsp;of Daniel&rsquo;s Lawn Care. "They really elevate a&nbsp;backyard to your neighborhood&rsquo;s new favorite Friday night hot spot."<br />&#8203;<br />So instead of schlepping&nbsp;<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/set-up-home-bar/" target="_blank">inside for a drink</a>, consider installing this&nbsp;latest must-have backyard amenity. We break down how&nbsp;you can turn an existing or new shed into a watering hole, and&nbsp;the necessities that come with slinging booze.</div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Claim an outbuilding</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">The first thing you need is a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/upgrade-your-storage-shed/" target="_blank">shed</a>. Maybe you have one in the backyard already which&nbsp;you can purge of rakes and hedge clippers. Just make sure&nbsp;you have enough alternative storage space.<br />&#8203;<br />If you don't have anywhere else to store landscaping equipment, it could be wise to consider adding&nbsp;a new shed," says&nbsp;<strong>Jay Labelle</strong>, owner of the Cover Guy, an online retail outlet for hot tub covers and supplies. That might entail building a new shed.<br /><br />You can buy a decent, prefab wooden one for $1,000 to $3,000</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0;margin-right:0;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/shed-tin-red_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Plan for elbow room...</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">Factor in&nbsp;size, because&nbsp;a&nbsp;really small shed probably won't be&nbsp;ideal for a bar. Think about how many people you plan to host&nbsp;on a regular basis, as well as your ideal seating (stools take up less room than a booth). Keep in mind that your local building department might&nbsp;have a size restriction on backyard sheds built without a permit. Around 120 square feet is usually a safe bet.</span></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;">Consider the shed's location</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">How will your bar shed fit into the&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.realtor.com/videos/video-how-to-transform-your-backyard-into-an-alluring-oasis/bfa9debc-bf56-4616-88e1-17f054351ea8" target="_blank">backyard design</a><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">? If you already have the&nbsp;shed, you might&nbsp;want to&nbsp;relocate it away from a child's bedroom (or a&nbsp;cranky neighbor with a decibel meter). And if you want to drink alfresco, leave enough room to set up a seating area near the shed.</span></div>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Your options: Tiki, pub, lounge, dive, beach, or sports bar</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Start by considering the basics when designing the interior of your bar shed. This means the flooring, wall paneling, and paint. Then decide on the vibe you're going for. Do you want to show off the license plates you never turned in to the DMV (dive bar) or your collection of Polynesian drink ware (Tiki bar)?<br /><br />The shelves for wine and liquor, as well as the bar itself, can be purchased or made. You might&nbsp;want to design the bar around a small fridge or cooler tucked under the serving side of your bar to avoid taking up additional&nbsp;square footage in the&nbsp;shed, says&nbsp;<strong>Deemer Cass</strong>&nbsp;of Landscaping &amp; Garden Design.<br /></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="text-align:left;"><span>"And don&rsquo;t forget to mount a bottle opener on the wall."</span></h2>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/barshed_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%"></div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Get Wired</h2>  <div><div class="wsite-multicol"><div class="wsite-multicol-table-wrap" style="margin:0 -15px;"> 	<table class="wsite-multicol-table"> 		<tbody class="wsite-multicol-tbody"> 			<tr class="wsite-multicol-tr"> 				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">If the bar of your dreams contains a&nbsp;miniature fridge, ice maker, and blender for frozen margaritas, you're going to need power.<br />"Before you get started, consult an electrician on the resources available in your backyard," says&nbsp;<strong>Nate Burlando</strong>, owner and president of Distinct HVAC. Depending on the type of exterior power outlets you already have, you might&nbsp;need to trench in extra power.<br /><br />Or is a&nbsp;rustic&nbsp;bar with a cooler, bag of ice, and cocktail shaker more your style? That makes things easier, but keep in mind that your bar is going to need some light if your drinking goes&nbsp;late into the night. If you decide to go electricity-free, battery-powered strands of fairy lights should be enough to illuminate your pale ale.<br />&#8203;<br />"They also give your backyard a nightly enchantment for your get-together," says Rhoden.</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">Add Acohol</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">"The booze just&nbsp;might be the most expensive part of your backyard bar shed," says Rhoden. Once word gets out about your gin martini, you might be tempted to open for business. But it's definitely&nbsp;illegal to sell alcohol in your backyard, so stick to sharing&nbsp;your drinks with friends, for free.</div>   					 				</td>				<td class="wsite-multicol-col" style="width:50%; padding:0 15px;"> 					 						  <div><div class="wsite-image wsite-image-border-none " style="padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:10px;margin-left:0px;margin-right:0px;text-align:center"> <a> <img src="http://www.marcrafthomes.com/uploads/4/2/2/3/42232407/shed-barstools_orig.jpg" alt="Picture" style="width:auto;max-width:100%" /> </a> <div style="display:block;font-size:90%">Even a simple, rustic bar shed will be a major draw.</div> </div></div>   					 				</td>			</tr> 		</tbody> 	</table> </div></div></div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">...and add a little music</h2>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;">Bars are not libraries. They are meant for conversation, laughter, and the occasional singalong. Just bear in mind you have neighbors, and loud music in the late evening is sometimes frowned upon. :(</div>  <h2 class="wsite-content-title">The boring stuff</h2>  <div class="paragraph"><span style="color:rgb(51, 51, 51)">Check with your homeowners insurance agent to see if you need to insure your backyard bar shed&nbsp;for liability. (You'll be glad you did.)<br />&#8203;</span><br /></div>  <div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><em><font size="2">Article written by;&nbsp;<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Margaret Heidenry a writer living in Brooklyn, NY. Her work has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, and Boston Magazine.</span></font></em></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>