The Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows

Today, most homeowners opt for energy efficient windows because they can help save a considerable amount of energy and money in the long run. If you are unsure what the benefits of energy efficient windows are, the team from Country Lumber would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Some of the benefits of energy efficient windows include:

1. Environmentally Friendly

One of the primary reasons to have energy efficient windows installed in your home is because they are environmentally friendly. Since energy efficient windows will allow your home to maintain a consistent temperature, your home's heating and air conditioning systems will not have to expend as much energy to make your home feel comfortable.

2. Lower Costs

Energy efficient windows are designed with energy saving attributes that will significantly lower your energy bills. They lessen the energy expenditure, making it healthier not only for your environment but also for your pocket.

3. Low Maintenance

Oftentimes, you may need to do regular maintenance in order to give you windows a sparkling new look; however, energy efficient windows require very little maintenance because they minimize energy transfer. This, in turn, decreases the formation of mold and dust since the buildup of condensation is lowered. Furthermore, energy efficient windows have a UV-resistant coating that prevents the buildup of dust and water spots.

4. Great Insulation

If you are looking for an effective way to maintain the right temperature in your home, then energy efficient windows may be the solution. This is because these windows serve as an insulator, forming a barrier against hot and cold weather.

5. Reduces Noise

Another benefit of energy efficient windows is their capability to reduce the sound of noise from outside leaking in. Energy efficient windows are specifically recommended for houses near highways or houses that are too close to each other.

6. Protects Items Inside

Energy efficient windows have a UV-resistant coating that acts as a barrier against harsh sun rays that can damage things inside your house or office, preventing furniture and other items from fading.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of energy efficient windows, or if you are interested in our selection of windows for sale, please contact Country Lumber at 604-533-4447. Our dedicated team members would love to help you select the right windows for your specific wants and needs.

Tips for Fixing a Leaky Sink

At Country Lumber, we know that fixing a leaky sink can seem like a daunting task but, in reality, it often can be fixed with a little bit of effort and a few simple tools. Rather than hiring a plumber every time you notice a leaky sink in your home, consider tackling the problem on your own by using this list of tips for fixing a leaky sink from our team of professionals.

Locate the Problem

The first step in fixing a leaky sink is to assess the problem. To do so, you will need a large container, a flashlight, and a towel. Make sure you empty the sink and turn off the faucet before starting. Next, place a container under the faucet to collect any dripping water. Doing so will make it easier for you to determine if the faucet is leaking or if there is another problem.

You should then check under the sink using your flashlight. If there is leakage when the sink is not in use, then the problem might be coming from the water supply line. Turn on the faucet and then check under the sink for any signs of leakage. Make sure to check for loosened joints, broken pipes, and damaged sealant.

Fix the Leaky Sink

When fixing your leaky sink, it is extremely important to first turn off the main water supply to avoid flooding. There are various reasons why your sink could be leaking, such as:

Water Supply Line Problem

If the leak is constant even when the sink is not in use, the problem is most likely the water supply line. To fix the water supply line, first try tightening the retention nut. If the leakage continues, it may be necessary to replace any valves that might have loosened due to contraction, expansion, or age factors.

Water leakage can also be a result of damaged water supply pipes. You can fix this problem by applying a pipe sealant that stops the leakage. If the dripping does not stop, you might need to change the entire system.

Burst Pipe

If a pipe bursts, you will need to immediately close the shutoff valve or the main water supply. You can temporarily stop the leaking by wrapping the burst section of the pipe with duct tape or you can use a sleeve clamp or hose clamp to secure the pipe for a longer period of time. The best solution is to simply replace the entire pipe.

Leaking Sink Drain Traps

Leaking sink drain traps are only noticeable when the sink is in use. If your sink has plastic drainpipes, you might be able to fix the leak by simply tightening the nuts by hand. If the leakage continues, add sealant or silicone grease to the pipes. If the drainpipes in your sink are metallic, you should be able to tighten the pipes using pliers; however, If the dripping continues, the best thing to do is replace the pipes.

If you would like to learn more tips on fixing a leaky sink, please contact Country Lumber. Our team would love to answer any questions you might have.

Using Wood to Create a Feature Wall

Feature walls are a great way to distinguish your home and add value to a space. They offer a personal touch to a room and create something that will stand out in the mind of visitors. There are many different ways to create a feature wall, including paint, trim, wall decals, and wood. At Country Lumber, we know that using wood to create a feature wall is one of the most effective and versatile ways to make a room pop with creativity. We sell a wide variety of wood products that can be used to help you create a unique feature wall for your home, including cedar and dimensional lumber.

Ideas for Wood Feature Walls

Wood can be used in a variety of ways to create a feature wall in your home. It can easily be installed over drywall, meaning that many types of wooden feature walls make great DIY projects. Some ideas for feature walls made of wood could include:

Cedar Plank Feature Wall

One of the easiest feature wall designs that can be used for nearly any space is a solid wood cedar plank layout. Planks can be laid on the wall in any direction or they can be applied in different patterns, such as herringbone. Stains can be applied to the cedar boards to complement your room’s overall aesthetic. Shiplap or tongue in groove can be used to eliminate gaps between the cedar boards.

Modern Art Feature Wall

One way to use wood to create a feature wall is to apply thin strips to create a modern looking pattern. Simple square sticks of wood can be fastened to the wall so that they create a unique interwoven, angular pattern.

Classic Wood Trim

If you prefer to stick to tried and true designs, using wood to create board and batten, wainscoting, or any other type of classically trimmed feature wall can be a very attractive way to go.

Rustic Wood Feature Wall

The right finish work can give wooden boards a distressed, rustic look. When cut at short, uneven lengths or applied in overlapping patterns, this can give a wall a rough, natural, reclaimed appearance.

If you would like to learn more about how to use wood to create a feature wall in your home, or to learn more about the products and services offered at Country Lumber, please contact our experienced team so that we can help you find what you are looking for.

How to Fix Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a popular option for many homes in BC due to its resilience, affordability, variety, and ease of installation. Another great reason to use vinyl siding for a home is how easy it is to replace and repair when damaged. While some types of siding require intricate patches or full board replacements, vinyl siding can be fixed with a few simple tools and steps. At Country Lumber, our team can help you find all the supplies you need to fix your home’s vinyl siding if it is damaged.

How to Fix Vinyl Siding

The method that you will need to employ in order to fix your vinyl siding will depend on the size of the repair that needs to be done. If the hole or damage is small enough, it might be possible to use caulk to patch the siding. There are also many patch kits available for small holes; however, if the damage to your siding is extensive enough, you will need to replace a section of the siding panel. For many people, this is a preferable method to patching the siding anyway, as it allows for a more uniform looking repair job.

Before you get started on fixing your siding, make sure that you have a piece of replacement siding ready to use. There are many different brands and profiles of vinyl siding, so it is important to look around before you get started. Replacement siding can often be found at a local building centre, such as Country Lumber. The following steps can be used to replace vinyl siding:

1.     Separate the Damaged Siding Piece

Replacing a piece of damaged siding is easiest when you have the proper tool. Siding replacement tools have a flat hook that allows them to pry the bottom edge of a piece of vinyl siding loose from the piece below it. These tools function like a zipper, as you can run them along a piece of siding, and they separate the two horizontal pieces.

2.     Remove the Damaged Siding

Once the top edge of the damaged siding is exposed, pull the piece of siding above it away so that you can see the fasteners securing it to the wall. Use a pry bar or screwdriver to remove the fasteners and pull the damaged siding off the wall.

3.     Install the Replacement Panel

You may wish to paint the new piece of vinyl before installing it if necessary. Cut the new vinyl siding panel to the right length and push it into place. Fasten the panel in place using the appropriate fasteners.

4.     Hook the Panels Together

Once the new vinyl siding is in place, use the vinyl siding tool to hook the bottom edge of the siding panel above the replacement back over the new panel’s top edge.

If you would like to learn more about how to fix vinyl siding or what supplies are needed for the job, be sure to call the experienced team at Country Lumber and we can help you find what you need.

Simple Home Projects Using Cedar

If you are looking for an easy new project to do around your home with inexpensive materials, it is worth looking into some simple home projects using cedar. Cedar is a great material for most home projects as it is easy to work with, inexpensive, and resistant to rot and mould. At Country Lumber, we provide a massive variety of cedar products for all kinds of uses. Whether you are looking for a large load of cedar fencing or a couple of small boards for some home projects, we can help.

Ideas for Simple Cedar Projects

The projects that you will be able to complete will vary depending on the kind of cedar you use, the tools you have on hand, and your skill level, but there are some very basic projects that can be done around the house using cedar boards. Some great ideas for cedar woodworking projects that use minimal tools include:

A Cedar Feature Wall

A feature wall can be done very easily with only a saw, some cedar boards, and a drill. There are many patterns for cedar feature walls that can be pursued, so select a feature wall strategy that suits your space and skill level.

Raised Planter and Garden Boxes

Due to its moisture resistance and long-lasting properties, cedar is used all the time for planters and flower bed boxes. It is possible to create a rudimentary yet beautiful raised garden bed using simple tools and cedar.

Shelving

Shelves are another project that can be made easily using cedar. Cedar can look either rustic or refined depending on how it is finished, so it can suit nearly any home aesthetic. Whether you are creating standalone shelving units or mounting shelves on a wall, there are many options using cedar.

Outdoor Bench

Create some extra outdoor seating space with a simple outdoor cedar bench. You can experiment with designs in order to create something truly unique, or make your bench double as extra storage space for outdoor toys or equipment by setting a seat on a hinge and making the base a box.

Pet House

Depending on the size of your pet and your level of ambition, you can create a truly unique or completely conventional shelter for your dog, cat, or other animal using cedar and some very simple designs.

If you would like to talk more about your next home project or find out more simple home project ideas that use cedar, feel free to contact our knowledgeable team and we would be happy to help you get the information you need to get started.

Where to Find TimberTech Decking in Langley

There are many different types of material that can be used to build a deck, and, at Country Lumber, we offer a wide variety of these decking materials for use on houses all around the Langley area. The best type of decking material to use will depend on what you want the deck to look like and a variety of other factors, but one of the most commonly used decking materials for homes in BC is composite decking. If you are planning on using composite decking for your home, it is worth learning about the different brands of decking, like TimberTech. As carriers of great decking products and brands, Country Lumber is one of the best places to find TimberTech decking products in Langley.

Learn about the best material to use for a deck in BC.

TimberTech Decking for Langley Homes

In Langley, BC, we tend to see a lot of moisture. If the wrong materials are used for building, decks can very easily and quickly rot. TimberTech is highly moisture and mold resistant, making it a perfect brand of decking for Langley homes. Aside from its moisture resistance and longevity, some of the best reasons to use TimberTech composite decking for homes in the Fraser Valley include:

Natural Aesthetic

TimberTech decking is designed to look completely natural. The textured surface looks like wood, making it a perfect substitute for a deck that might have once been made of cedar.

Variety of Looks

While other decks might need to be stained or painted to get the right look, TimberTech decking comes pre-coloured in a wide variety of looks. Whether you want a natural, stained look or something a bit more vibrant, there is a massive range of aesthetics that can be achieved. There are also different grain patterns to mimic different types of wood.

Sustainability

In BC, one of our top priorities for building supplies is sustainability and environmental friendliness. TimberTech is made from mostly recycled materials and lasts for longer than most decking, making it one of the best options available.

Simple Installation

TimberTech decking can be installed by nearly anyone due to its simple design. The boards are light and fasteners are colour-matched to ensure that you do not need to be a professional to build your own deck.

If you would like to find out more information about TimberTech decking and why it should be used for homes in Langley, BC, or if you want to learn about any of our other products or services, please contact the team at Country Lumber.

Winter Home Improvement Project Ideas

As the months get colder and wetter, most people stop doing maintenance and upgrades on their home’s exterior and shift their attention indoors. There are many different ways to improve your home’s interior to make your living space more enjoyable. If you are looking for some winter home improvement project ideas, it might be worth talking to one of the knowledgeable team members at Country Lumber.

Indoor Home Improvement Ideas for Winter

Whether you are planning to hire an experienced contractor to improve your home or are looking for DIY projects to get into during the winter months, it can help to know where to look for project opportunities in your home. Some ideas for winter home improvement projects include:

1.     Install Crown Moulding

Crown moulding is a beautiful addition to nearly any home’s interior. It can help to give the space a finished, classy look, and there are many different crown moulding profiles available.

Learn more about how to install crown moulding.

2.     Install New Vinyl Flooring

If you have old flooring that you have been wanting to replace, vinyl is an excellent option. Vinyl floors last longer than most other types of floors and look incredible when installed. While hardwood, tile, and carpet are somewhat complex to install, many people with rudimentary tools and expertise can install vinyl flooring.

Find out how to install vinyl plank flooring.

3.     Improve Your Home’s Temperature Retention

Many homes have poor heat retention due to bad seals around windows, doors, and vents or poor insulation in certain areas. Sealing off ducts and gaps or resealing windows and doors can make a big difference in how well your home keeps drafts out and keeps heat in, saving you money on energy. Many homes also have sections that are not properly insulated, like the attic or foundation, that could benefit from insulation being installed.

4.     Freshen Up Cabinets

Cabinets throughout your home serve an important function for storage and they can be made to look extremely attractive. A new coat of paint or new hardware can make a big difference in how you feel about your living space. Many people even choose to replace the doors on their cabinets with a different texture or material.

5.     Change Lighting or Plumbing Fixtures

New lighting and plumbing can make a surprising difference in how new a space feels. Outdated fixtures also tend to be less efficient, so new fixtures can save you money in the long run.

The team from Country Lumber is always happy to talk about your winter home improvement project ideas and help you find the best course to execute your plans. Feel free to stop by or call us and we can ensure that you get the materials and expertise you need.

Interior Painting Tips for DIY Painters

Painting the interior of your home can do a lot to freshen up your living space. Although many people will elect to hire a professional to paint their home, others will elect to do the work themselves in order to save money and have better control over the work being done. If you are planning to paint the interior of your home, it can be useful to know some interior painting tips for DIY painters. At Country Lumber, we provide solutions to make work easier for people looking to get started on painting their home’s interior.

Interior Painting Tips

Most people know to move furniture to the centre of the room, cover everything with drop cloths, and tape over any wall fixtures that they do not want painted, but there are some tips and tricks that most DIY painters might not be aware of. Some tips for painting your home’s interior include:

Use a Primer

A primer can help to save you money, as it is typically a very cheap first coat. In most cases, you will need to apply numerous coats in order to have your paint look right. A primer can help to limit the number of coloured coats needed, often saving you work and money – especially if you are painting a light colour on top of a dark colour.

Paint in the Proper Order

Following a specific order when painting a room can help you avoid needing to repaint certain areas. Most professional painters follow a specific order when painting a room. Start with the ceiling, and then move on to the trim. Once that is done cut in the edges of the walls and then finish up by painting the walls with a roller.

Paint in Large Strokes

It is easier to avoid streaking and unevenness by painting in large strokes with the roller. Paint full strips of the wall with every stroke, and then overlap the next stroke with the previous one so that you do not miss spots and so that the coat is applied evenly.

Use a Paint Pen for Touch-Ups

Paint pens can be loaded with the paint colour being used in order to touch up missed spots or paint that gets peeled off when tape is removed. These pens are worth investing in, as they can be used for up to a year after they are loaded with paint.

Use the Same Paint as What has Been Used Before

If you have oil-based paint on your walls currently, make sure that you only use oil-based paint to cover it up. Likewise, latex paint should be used on walls previously painted with latex paint. If the wrong paint is used, it can result in the paint not adhering to the wall and the paint will peel.

If you would like to learn more interior painting tips for DIY painters, or if you would like to learn more about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Shed Building Supplies in Abbotsford

If you are building a shed for your home in the Fraser Valley, it is important to know where to find the materials that you will need. There are many different ways to build a shed and plenty of different types of materials that can be used, and the experts at a local building centre, like Country Lumber, should be able to help you find what you need for shed building supplies in the Abbotsford area. 

What Materials are Needed to Build a Shed?

Most sheds follow a fairly rudimentary design, since they are typically used for tool and garden supply storage and little else. If you are putting together a checklist of some of the shed building materials that you will need to begin your Abbotsford project, the list below might be useful to consider:

Lumber

The material that will likely be needed the most is lumber. Most of what will be needed are 2x4 SPF boards. The other dimensions of lumber that will be required will depend on the shed’s design plans. Make sure that you have a list written of how many of each length will be required for your shed. It is also likely that you will need a few sheets of plywood for the walls, roof, and any shelves you wish to install.

Concrete

If your shed is going to have a strong concrete foundation, it is important to know this ahead of time. Many shed designs use wood platforms and rest on rock, but these sheds are typically less stable and do not last as long. Another problem with sheds built on wooden platforms is that animals have a tendency to seek shelter under them.

Fasteners and Hardware

You will need a healthy supply of screws, nails, and other hardware in order to build your shed.  A nailgun can make the job much easier as well, so make sure that you know where to get all of the hardware that you will need and collect more than you think you will use.

Windows and Doors

Many sheds use a framed piece of plywood for a door and factor out windows altogether. Having a window in your shed can make it easier to see and provide much needed ventilation, especially if the shed will house chemicals and gasoline. Although it can be cheaper to make your own door out of plywood and 2x4, this can lead to major problems down the road as these doors can fall out of square and stick in the frame.

Roofing Materials

Installing a proper roof to fend off moisture is important. You should make sure that you have tarpaper and shingles or whatever other type of roofing material you plan to use on hand.

Siding

There are many different types of siding that can be used but, ultimately, most people tend to use the same kind of siding that they have on their house, especially if the shed is located in a visible place. When purchasing siding, be sure to look into the kind of trim and fascia that will be used as well.

Paint

Once the shed is built, it will need to be painted. The paint colours used should typically be the same as those used on the house. Many people already have a bucket or two of paint leftover from the last time they painted their house. If this is not the case, most local paint shops can colour match your home’s paint colour.

If you are interested in finding out more about where to find shed building supplies in Abbotsford and the kind of supplies you will need, or if you would like to learn more about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Where to Find Rough Cut Timbers

Whether you are building a new house, renovating a commercial space, or working on any other kind of project that incorporates natural wood accents, it can be extremely useful to know where to find rough cut timbers in BC’s Lower Mainland. At Country Lumber, we provide a wide variety of different types and sizes of rough cut timbers that can be used in all kinds of construction projects.

Rough Sawn Timber Supplier in BC

If your next building project includes a rustic look in the design plans, rough cut timbers are a good way to achieve that aesthetic. Rough cut lumber is wood that has been cut on a band saw in order to achieve a rough yet even wood surface. There are many different types of rough sawn lumber, and each of the different types offer varying benefits.

Types of Rough Cut Timbers

Two of the most popular types of wood to use for rough cut timbers in BC are Douglas fir and cedar. Both are excellent for use in construction and are popularly used for exposed beams and other elements. Douglas fir and cedar timbers both have long, straight grains that allow them to be used for structural and aesthetic projects without warping too often. Although both products are frequently used for both indoor and outdoor applications, cedar does better when exposed to the elements due to its superior rot resistance.

Rough Cut Timbers from Country Lumber

Since there are so many uses for rough sawn lumber, it is a good idea to make sure that your lumber supplier carries a wide variety of sizes. The rough cut timbers from Country Lumber are available in many sizes to suit any project, from building a shelf to framing a house, from indoor moulding to deck building materials. Kiln dried rough hewn timbers are also available from Country Lumber for projects that need wood of exceptional quality. Kiln drying reduces the chances of distortion or other imperfections, meaning that your building project can move forward more efficiently.

If you are interested in finding out more about where to find rough cut timbers for different projects, or if you would like to learn more about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.