• Single car garages qualify for a 8′x7′ free door
• Free overhead door must be installed on a garage built by CarShacks
• Overhead door promotion is only available for full garage project purchases which include all of the following components: concrete, structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, and all materials and labour for those components
• To recieve this promotion, contract must be signed by July 31, 2010

“CarShacks worked exceeding well with our unique needs, which included demolition of an existing garage and additional height in a pony wall, and new gas & electrical services.

Jim was a great help in guiding us & the trades thru the project.”

-D. Knight, Calgary

CarShacks - Ask the Pro

For many homeowners a garage is a central point of their home. It shelters vehicles, serves as a valuable storage facility, and houses many valuable seasonal items and tools. However, for many homeowners, their garage is also one of the most neglected spaces when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Garages are very susceptible to the wear and tear of everyday life:

• The overhead door is opened and closed several times a day: allowing for the continual use of the door mechanisms, and dirt, snow, and living creatures to enter into the garage.
• Vehicles also track in elements of the outdoor world, as do footwear and pets.
• Stored items collect dust, and have the potential to leak or spill, often resulting in stains.

A garage is a large investment for a homeowner - If there is high usage and little maintenance, your investment will not withstand the test of time as effectively as it could. Performing proper maintenance on your garage periodically throughout the year will save you time and money in the long run.

Weatherproof your Garage

Evaluate when your garage door seal, located at the bottom of the overhead door, needs to be replaced. It is time to change the seal when sunlight begins to come through the bottom of the closed garage door. Bottom door seals keep out dirt, mice, water, insects and cold breezes. Seals are also relatively inexpensive, and are not difficult for an average homeowner to install. Garage door, window, and entrance door weatherstrips are also an easy install, as well as inexpensive.

Overhead Door Maintenance

It is important to service the door not only to maintain its life and operation, but for safety and convenience reasons as well. All rollers, hinges, roller tracks and latches should be cleaned off, and then have a penetrating solvent, such as WD-40, used on them. Pulleys and springs should be lubricated, and wiped down with oil, should rust begin to surface. Homeowners should exercise caution when considering the replacement of any worn springs, cables or loose brackets. Although the functionality of these parts are essential to the safe and efficient motions of the overhead door, replacing them should be a job for a professional only. Checking the tracks which the overhead door lowers and raises itself on should also be checked for any bends or fractures.

If the overhead door is noticeably noisy, all nuts on the door, as well as on the track, should be tightened. It is not uncommon for metal rollers to make noise as they role up and down the metal track as they age. If this is the case, the rollers may be replaced. Rollers should be replaced one at a time, and nylon rollers rather then metal rollers may be used as an alternative. Nylon rollers are often quieter then metal, but are more expensive. If replacing the rollers proves to be too daunting of a task, soaking the rollers in kerosene using a small brush, and removing any rust with steel wool, may also lower the noise level. If your garage door has torsion springs, homeowners should not attempt to replace the rollers in the bottom bracket. Torsion springs are located above the upper tracks of both sides on both sides of the garage door, and are attached to the header above the closed overhead door. These springs are always under tension, and altering or moving the bottom bracket could prove to be potentially dangerous for the homeowner.

Garage doors should also be checked for flaking paint and rust. If the door is displaying these qualities, the garage door should be sanded down in these areas and then re-primed and painted.

The Garage Floor.

Chips and cracks are bound to appear in concrete garage flooring. Although small chips and cracks are expected, and do not indicate structural problems, with the continued wear and tear on the floor, these imperfections could prove to become more serious in time. To avoid a potential problem caused by smaller chips and cracks in concrete flooring, it is best to clean out the imperfection and fill it properly with premixed concrete crack sealant. Cracks and chips on the larger end of the scale should be properly treated with concrete bonding adhesive and then filled in with a concrete mix. If cracks or other imperfections are growing exceptionally large and continually spreading, the homeowner should call a professional in for inspection and treatment.

Cleanliness for Longevity

General cleanliness in a garage is also important for its maintenance and longevity. Dirt, salt and other residue collects in garages during the colder months, and should be swept and washed off the floor surface on a regular basis. This not only improves the aesthetic look of your garage, but also cleans residue out of forming cracks and chips, which increases the lifespan of your pad surface, and will keep your items in storage cleaner. Concrete absorbs liquids readily, so washing the flooring and removing stains such as oil, will improve the health of your flooring and the sanitary level in your living space. Using hooks, racks and shelves, and avoiding placing objects directly on the floor not only protects items stored in your garage to a greater degree from dirt and living creatures, but also promotes a clean and safe environment as well. Washing the overhead door will also slow down its gradual wear and tear, but avoid using strong detergents as it may deteriorate the door’s finishing surface. Inspecting the reversing sensors on a regular basis is also a good idea as it promotes the safety of yourself, family members and vehicles.

Providing your garage with the proper maintenance and service will increase its life and functionality as well as its occupant’s safety. Keeping a garage safe, clean, and functional is an ongoing task throughout the year, and should not be performed only once annually. A garage is often one of the most utilized living spaces in a home, and therefore is very susceptible to the effects of everyday life. Like everything else in a home, a garage requires attention and care to function properly. Garage doors especially are arguably the largest moving part in a home and require service to maintain a suitable level of safety. If a garage is properly maintained, it should run efficiently and prove to be a valuable asset to the homeowner for many years.

The saying “built to last” is not an unusual mantra for a construction company when speaking of its work in the field. But with CarShacks Garage Builders the saying also applies to the firm, itself. CarShacks, located in southern Alberta and incorporated in 1999, is based off of a top-to-bottom,
previously untapped business model, which is why despite the economy the multimillion dollar firm has expanded to three new locations in the past four years.

Steve Martin, the designbuild company’s founder and current owner, originally owned Calgary’s Anchor Concrete. He would often lay the concrete foundations for garages (called garage pads) and customers would frequently ask him if they knew anyone who could build standalone garages. After some research, Martin realized that there was no one in the Calgary area that specialized in building standalone garages. The transition became inevitable. Along with his father, Wayne Martin, and his business associate, Rolly Ashdown, the younger Martin launched CarShacks, a construction firm that specializes in building residential detached garages. Though they expected to construct 30 garages at most during their first year, they built more than 60.

With the addition of James Lavigne, a construction professional with more 20 years of extensive knowledge, CarShacks production doubled its production from 2000 to 2001. Lavigne is vice president of operations and manages the construction process and develops procedures to make it timelier. Currently, the company can build more than 200 garages a year. Eventually, the company would like to be at the capacity where it could make twice that, says Lavigne.

From Baseline to Build Out

Once someone calls inquiring about a garage, CarShacks sends a team of trained consultant estimators to determine the specific needs of the client and discuss steps the company will take if moving forward. After a plan for a garage is sold, a project manager guides that project to completion. First, the project manager inspects the site, locates the underground utilities and then obtains the necessary building permits at the municipal level. “We don’t build anything without all the required permits,” explains Lavigne. “We apply for them on behalf of the homeowner, so we are basically a one-stop shop; the customer doesn’t have to do anything on the project.”

Next, the excavation process begins and the concrete footings are poured, then the curb wall is cribbed and poured, followed by a gravel base installation. Steel rebar is then installed at the base to reinforce the structure, the concrete pad is poured and “finished,” and then it is sealed. Once the foundation is finished, the structure is assembled in five stages. The sill is placed, the wall sections are erected, leveled and aligned, the trusses are placed and attached, the sheet roof is installed, after which the doors, windows, and overhead car door are installed. Next, the exterior work is done – including the protection of the framing materials using Tyvek or building paper then covered with siding or stucco, to match the homeowners existing dwelling. Finally, the exterior is completed with the installation of soffit, facia and eavestrough.

After the exterior work is finished, the roof is finished. Shingles are loaded onto the roof, a felt base and starter strips are then set up, followed by the installation of the shingles. After this, the venting and roof cap are installed. The electrical fitting is the final stage of building the garage (though it can be completed earlier in the process) and consists of digging a sizable trench, and then running conduit and wiring from the source to the garage. Next, boxes for switches and plugs are put in place, and wiring is attached to the breaker.

From Initial Anchors to Long-term Advantages

According to CarShacks’ research, most customers get a 100-percent return on their investment when selling their home. Also, all garages come with a five-year warranty. Lavigne says an overwhelming majority of customers are extremely satisfied with the finished product because CarShacks does “whatever it takes to make them happy.” In those rare situations where something needs correction, a CarShacks executive will contact a client within 24 hours of the filed complaint, and then fix the problem within days to no cost to the customer. “Our customers are confident knowing that their experience is hassle- and worry-free,” explains the company’s Web site. Lavigne says the key to this experience is communication and responsibility. “When you say you are going to be there, you’re there,” explains Lavigne. “That’s why the construction manager actually meets with the customer, because it defines expectations.”

CarShacks has a very loyal base of 10 full-time employees who pass this enthusiasm to clients. “It’s a positive atmosphere,” explains Lavigne, adding that because CarShacks has a good balance of labor force and projects, employees don’t feel overworked, a common side effect of the construction industry. “We’re careful not to overwork ourselves and put too much on one person.” All employees receive a comprehensive benefits package and the company encourages and compensates regular training. Every employee has taken a first aid course and almost all attend monthly safety breakfast seminars hosted by the Canadian Home Builders Association (CHBA), of which CarShacks is a member. “We don’t have a huge amount of employee turnover rate,” says Lavigne, adding that much of the company’s success is due to its long-term employees.

From Getting the Word Out to Getting More Work In

CarShacks has an extensive advertising program. “We do radio, our Web site is quite extensive and features online quotes, plus we do local advertising, newspapers, community-focused newsletters and home and garden shows,” explains Lavigne, who says that CarShacks runs about three percent of its annual gross on advertising each year. CarShacks also has a fleet of vehicles decorated with the company logo, puts a sign on each property they build while the project is underway. In addition, the company’s involvement in the CHBA, with Lavigne sitting on the renovation council and the company supporting its local Renomark program, helps the Alberta community find a
reliable, trustworthy contractor.

“The construction industry has been booming here in Alberta,” explains Lavigne, who adds the company is “looking at neighboring provinces to … expand our dealership network.” Having gained momentum so quickly over the past few years, with its additions in Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Red Deer, CarShacks is bound to continue expansion as its experience and reputation continues to last throughout the province.

April 25th, 2010

Without a front attached garage, homes have a more traditional, inviting look, with verandas, eye-catching front doors and oversized front windows.

However, homeowners still need to park their car, and the street doesn’t often cut it.

In Calgary, snow, rain, ice and wind can wreak havoc on a vehicle, which is why, for many, a garage is a must.

That’s why we asked the experts: When someone has a garageless home, is it worth adding a garage to the backyard?

“It’s simple to add a garage to a laned home,” says Shane Homes’ Candice Albo.

“It can be constructed at the same time your new home is being built — and in Drake Landing, we have lots wide enough for a four-car garage if you wish.”

However, most homeowners prefer a double-car garage, as they’ve got space for two vehicles and seasonal storage, while leaving plenty of outdoor room for grass and a patio.

“Our lot inventory with lane access can accommodate both attached and detached garages,” Albo says.

“And it’s nice to have the garage completed and ready with your new home, especially when the winter months are upon us. It’s also easier to plan your rear yard landscaping.”

However, some homeowners opt to build a rear garage after they’ve already moved in — and those who do often go to a specialized garage-building company.

“People build garages for a few reasons,”

says Amanda Lavigne, sales andmarketing manager for CarShacks Garage Builders.

“One of the main reasons is to have a place to store your car and another big reason is the added indoor space.

There’s storage space for bicycles, off season storage and extra working space for things like wood working.”

And while a garage can cost an average of $20,000, Lavigne says the investment is well worth it.

“It really adds to the property value — we usually see people getting close to 100 percent return on investment,” she says.

However, in order to recoup costs, it’s important to have the garage built properly — there are codes and rules to follow and a building permit from the city is reuiqred — otherwise, it could end up as money down the drain.

“In Calgary, there are a lot of rules and regulations about the size of the garage you can have on your property, there are rules like you can’t build over a gas line and there are a lot of other things involved in the process such as code, materials or even how long it takes to build a garage,” Lavigne says.

“It’s good to get a professional involved because that way, you know you’re protected.”

“I would recommend CarShacks to anyone who wants to build hassle free. They have ongoing communication from the estimate right down to the end and there are no surprises. They are very professional and have great work ethic to do the job once and do it right. If you are considering someone else….DONT! They are all you need!”

– Karrie F.

Homeowners across Canada spend a combined average of fifty million dollars annually on home renovations, repairs and upgrades. Whether the projects is on a small scale, a significantly larger one, or somewhere in the middle, most home projects interfere with the homeowner’s life to a relatively large extent, and the costs associated with home improvements are also usually substantial. These factors make the choice of a contractor for a home improvement to be an exceptionally important one. Home renovations should be cost effective, reliable and completed in a timely manner, and the contractor of the renovation is a key player in the achievement of these renovation goals. When selecting a contractor, home owners should be selective and chose a company or person whom they feel comfortable working with, and letting into their home. For many homeowners a large scale renovation or addition marks a milestone in their lives, and is something which they have been planning and anticipating for sometime. It should go without saying that the contractor chosen for a home renovation project should be honest and dependable, however, when selecting a contractor many home owners fall into the traps and gimmicks of lower quality contractors, and their renovation is not completed to their satisfaction. For your next home renovation, no matter how large, avoid contractors who fall below par by following the five stages below:

Initial Investigations:

Initially finding prospects to consider hiring as your contractor may be found through a variety of mediums. Searching the Yellow Pages, the internet, or inquiring friends and family about their recommendations, are all efficient ways to obtain potential candidates for your home improvement job. However, one of the key thoughts to focus on during this process is that you are looking for companies who specialize in your home improvement job. Be weary of the “Jacks of all trades”, as chances are that you will receive better quality with a specialist. Once you have gathered a list of potential candidates, further investigation should be done before you call them for an estimate. Looking at a companies rating from your local Better Business Bureau, will allow you to begin to rule out some companies on your list, and continue to maximize your chances of a successful home renovation.

The Interview Process:

The interview process with your potential contractor should primarily involve them submitting to you a detailed estimate, as well as the proper plan drawings and specifications they will be implementing into your renovation. A number scribbled on the back of a business card is not a sufficient estimate. Even if your renovation is on the smaller scale, a detailed estimate, as well as proper plans should be given to you, so that you may make a well informed decision. During the interview process you should also be asking your candidates a lot of questions. Questions such as “How long have you been in business?”, “What work schedule will you follow?”, and “Will you provide a written contract?” are all questions which must be asked during this process. Although questioning a contractor may be tough for some homeowners, reputable and dependable companies won’t be offended by these types of questions. The interview process also provides you with an opportunity to evaluate a potential contractor’s punctuality and interpersonal skills. After receiving estimates, homeowners should refrain from automatically choosing the lowest price. Detailed estimates should provide for a more in depth comparison between companies, which may explain price discrepancies through attributing more financial reliance on quality material. During interviews the homeowner should not allow themselves to become fully sold by a contractor. While it is alright to remove potential contractors from the candidate list, selecting a contractor based almost solely on an interview, fails to factor in other aspects of the full decision making the process, and the homeowner will not be making a fully informed decision.

Reference Check:

After the interview process a reference check should be completed for each potential contractor. References should not be taken merely on face value, as it is important for the homeowner to actually contact the references to gather valuable feedback about the contractor. Previously satisfied customers are excellent proof of a contractors work quality, and may be able to articulate valuable feedback. References should also be asked about any shortcomings they experienced through working with a specific contractor.

Proof of Documents:

Similar to a reference check, after the interview process all potential contractors should be asked to provide proof of an operating license, proof of proper insurance, and proof of workers compensation coverage. It would also be valuable for the homeowner to note how long it takes potential contractors to provide copies of these documents, as it could be an indication of how communication between the two parties may fare during the future project.

Signing the Contract:

Through a combination of the interview process, the reference check, and once all proper documentation from potential contractors have been received, the homeowner is now is a position to make an educated decision on who they will employ. After the decision is made, a contract between the contractor and the homeowner must be completed. The contract must be written and contain a detailed step by step process of the renovation project, including a detailed financial break down and material list. Purely verbal contracts or agreements are unacceptable, and do not protect the homeowner. If it is a larger home renovation job, most contractors allow installments or payments as the project progresses. If this is the case, homeowners need to ensure that the contract specifies when they payments are to be made, which should only be when milestones of the project have been completed. If again the project is on the larger scale, making the contract more complex, the homeowner may want to consult a lawyer, thinking of the legal fees as an added insurance.

Although choosing the right contractor may seem like a substantial amount of work, choosing a reliable and reputable company will save the homeowner a lot of potential aggravation, time and money. A renovation is an investment in the value and enjoyment of your home and hiring the right contractor will help in ensuring the home renovation process goes as smoothly as possible.

“My Carshacks building experience was as pain free as I could’ve imagined. The end product exceeded my expectations. Thanks Carshacks!”

–C. Lake

“The job was done quickly and professionaly. The staff was knowledgable and courteous. The price was right and we enjoyed having them build our garage. Very pleased.”

– Brian Zimmerman