A new garage door can be a complete refresh. Updating your garage door can improve the look and functionality of your home. 

If your garage door is in great working condition, a new paint could give it the boost it needs. 

Return on investment when replacing an old, warped, paint pealing door is typically close to 100% and will stand the test of time. A renovation worth doing even if you are not planning on moving in the next five years.

Check out the difference online before taking the plunge.

Amarr Door Design is a fantastic and super easy process.

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Calgary, like many other cities, is becoming increasingly conscious of the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Here are some tips for creating an eco-friendly yard in Calgary:

1. Choose native plants: Native plants are well-suited to Calgary's climate and require less water and maintenance than non-native plants. They also provide a habitat for local wildlife.  
2. Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. You can create your own compost or purchase it from a local garden store. The City of Calgary gives away compost from the green bin program for free – although you need to book a time slot for pick up. Details on when / how to book:  https://www.calgary.ca/waste/residential/green-cart-compost-giveaway.html
3. Install a rain barrel: A rain barrel collects rainwater from your roof, which you can then use to water your plants. This helps conserve water and reduces your reliance on the municipal water supply. Rain barrels have come a long way in looks, but do require a little more attention in the spring and fall to ensure they do not freeze and crack over winter. 
4. Use natural pest control: Chemical pesticides can harm the environment and are not necessary for a healthy garden. Consider using natural pest control methods, such as companion planting or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or praying mantises. Yes, you can buy a bag of lady bugs – releasing the lady bugs is great entertainment, especially with young children. 
5. Use a push mower: Gas-powered lawn mowers are a major source of air pollution. Consider switching to a push mower or an electric mower to reduce your environmental impact. Several Canadian cities have started to ban gas powered leaf blowers and lawn mowers.
6. Reduce water use: Calgary is a dry city (most of the time), so it is important to be mindful of water use. Consider installing low-flow irrigation systems, and rain sensing systems. Drought-resistant grasses are a great option for areas that experience hot and dry conditions, as they can survive and thrive with minimal water.
7. Hire a landscaping company to design an eco friendly yard. A professional landscaper can provide you with a plan or they can take the entire process from start to finish. Landscaping companies will design for full sun, partial sun, edible yards, low wet spots, sports, you name it. 

Great curb appeal will add value to your home, whether you are selling or not.  If the houses on the street appear well kept, property values will be better than in an unkempt neighbourhood.  When houses on your street sell for more money, the value of your home will increase. Keeping your house tidy on the outside will help theirs sell for more money. Ready to sell or not these are great tips to keep up the curb appeal, from budget friendly to splurges they will increase the value of your home, now and years to come.

Here are some tips to help you create curb appeal for your home:

1. Start with the landscaping: A well-manicured lawn, trimmed hedges, and colorful flowers can make a big difference in the appearance of your home. Consider hiring a landscaper to help design and maintain your yard. 

   Ensure that it is weed free (no dandelions popping up) and not dried out & brown. Water, weed, and cut the grass. It is also important to trim the grass for a polished & finished look. Low maintenance drought resistance gardens are a great way alternative to watering the grass all summer. Artificial turn has come a long way, although there is a significant upfront cost.

2. Clean and repair your driveway and/or walkways: Cracks and stains in your driveway and walkways can be an eyesore. Consider repairing or replacing them. At a minimum, make sure there are no weeds growing in the cracks.

   Fix driveway sags, especially if it affects the roof-line of the garage, or sunken below the garage level. The driveway is one of the first things a buyer sees and perceives as being a large expense that they don’t want to deal with. The entire driveway doesn’t necessarily have to be dug up, there are companies that will lift sagging or sinking concrete. Driveways can also be resurfaced.   

3. Front Door: First impressions are very important.

   Check to make sure that the hinges do not squeak, and the lock and latches work well.  Does it need replacing, painting, or a good clean?   Make sure it says “welcome home” and not “stay out”. A brightly coloured door can add an inviting appeal, help your house stand out, and add a modern flair.  Don’t forget the hardware – a quick spray paint or replacing old hardware will give the door a brand new look.  Repair any torn screens.

4. Front landing / Porch: Use artificial greenery to enhance the front yard. Artificial greenery can be a great way to create a low-maintenance and visually appealing landscape.

   Ensure that your front landing is not overly cluttered.  Tasteful potted planters, benches, a chair with a nice pillow can be used to stage your front landing, creating a welcome feeling. Clean. Clean. Clean.

5. Lighting and hardware: Upgrading your outdoor lighting fixtures can not only enhance the safety and security of your home but also add a stylish touch to your exterior. 

   Updated, clean and matching light fixtures help boost curb appeal day and night. Light fixtures and hardware can be painted for a quick, easy and inexpensive update. Upgrading your door handles, house numbers, and mailbox can give your home a fresh look and enhance its curb appeal. 

6. Windows: Clean windows inside and out.  Ensure that window sills are clean.  Although curtains are an interior item – they are seen from the exterior – make sure they are tidy and appropriate.  No flags or sheets for window coverings. Check that all screens are in good repair. 

   Window boxes filled with colorful flowers or greenery can add a charming touch to your home's exterior. Window boxes and shutters can add a punch of color and make windows appear larger. 

   If you have windows on your garage that are showing the inside clutter, use privacy peal and stick film to cover those windows. There are many great options to match the style of your home, if you can’t decide on a style go with a reflective one. 

7. Exterior: Pressure washing your home's exterior can remove dirt and grime, making it look clean and refreshed. 

   Ensure that paint is not pealing off anywhere – patch or repaint.  Stay neutral and within the expectations of the neighbourhood when choosing paint colors.  Repaint brick if it is looking outdated. Replace any warped vinyl siding – it is quite inexpensive to have a couple of pieces replaced.

8. Replacing your garage door is an investment that can enhance your home's curb appeal and increase its value. With the right design, materials, and installation, you can create a beautiful and functional garage door that complements your home's exterior. 

   If the door doesn't need to be replaced, clean, paint. Oil if it’s squeaky and make sure all garage door openers are in working order. If you have glass doors – add frost film or paint the interior side so that the items inside the garage are not visible from the street.  Match the style of the house/street to the style of the door.   

9. Fence: Paint if necessary. Clean and tidy is the theme. Replace any rotten boards, make sure the fence is not falling over. A front picket fence can add charm, as long as it fits with the style of the house. 

10. Roof: If the shingles are peeling up then it’s time to look into replacing them; this is a bigger ticket item but it will turn away buyers pretty quick if that’s the first thing they see. Replace damaged downspouts, paint or replace mismatching downspouts and eves trough.
11. House numbers. An easy way to add an updated look. Check out these customizable numbers on Amazon:

                   

A new garage door can be a complete refresh. 

Check out the difference online before taking the plunge.

Amarr Door Design is a fantastic and super easy process.

Before:

Using Door Designer to pick