And not just on Father’s Day, but throughout the summer as well.

Instead of venturing out to the mall, you should head on down to your local landscape supplier and get Dad a gift that he’ll truly love.

Gift Idea #1: Mulch and topsoil

Wait, what? Much and topsoil? As a Father’s Day gift?

Yep.

Think about it. If Dad is always working in the garden – or planting new items – then he probably has a supply of topsoil at his disposal.

And, chances are, that supply is getting low – which means he’ll have to replenish it.

By giving him a supply of topsoil for Father’s Day, he’ll have it ready to go in his garage or tool shed. No need to order it, because it’s already there.

It’s the perfect gift idea for the practical Dad.

Then, he can keep his fresh topsoil in place – or bring some colour to a garden bed or tree bed – by laying down fresh mulch. Again, another practical gift you can give Dad for Father’s Day this year.

• Unsure how much Dad will need for his garden? Try our free calculator to see just how much topsoil or mulch to get.

Gift Idea #2: High-pressure washer

Dad loves his patio or driveway that he built from interlocking paver stones.

And Dad hates it when they get dirty from dust and grime. He just hates it.

Give him a high-pressure washer this year to help him keep his interlock bright, clean and fresh.

With a high-pressure washer, it will be super easy for Dad to clean his interlock paving stones. And he won’t have to spend hours on end doing it.

If you’re worried about storage, don’t be. Modern high-pressure washers are compact in size. And some of them even fold for easy storage in Dad’s garage or tool shed.

Gift Idea #3: Hammock

Is Dad always dozing off outside in a cramped or tiny lawn chair?

Well, the next time Dad falls asleep in the backyard, make sure he does it in a nice, comfy hammock.

Hammocks are available in two main styles:

• Tie hammocks: These are hammocks which can be tied between two trees
• Post hammocks: These hammocks come with posts which need to be installed into the ground

Whether he’s sleeping, reading a book, listening to the game or spending time with the grandkids, your Dad will love his hammock.

Gift Idea #4: New garden tools

Is your Dad always working with his:

• Shears
• Pruners
• Spades
• Digging fork
• Wheelbarrow

And are they old and worn out? Could they use replacing?

You know that Dad won’t spend money on himself and purchase brand new lawn tools. That’s just the way he is.

So you should do it for him this year. He’ll really appreciate it – especially when he sees how fast he can get yard work done.

Happy Father’s Day from Grand River Natural Stone

To all the Dads out there, we want to wish you a Happy Father’s Day. And we want to say thank you – for all that you do.

This year, make Father’s Day truly unique by giving him outdoor-themed gifts that he’ll enjoy. Not just on Father’s Day – but every day too.

Unsure where to start? Contact us at Grand River Natural Stone today and let us know what you have in mind for Dad. We’re certain to have the right outdoor gift for you to give this year.

The post Outdoor Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Dad appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Heated driveways can save you from shovelling your driveway during the worst of the winter months. But how do heated driveways work? Are they worth the investment?

Inground heating technology has advanced greatly over the years so that it’s now worth it for many families to add it to their driveway, not only for their convenience but also their safety.

Here’s what you need to know about this amazing outdoor living feature.

How Heated Driveways Work

Driveway snow melting systems are based on radiant floor heating technology. Traditionally heated driveways have used a system that involved a series of tubes running underneath the driveway. These tubes circulate hot water to release heat and melt the snow above the surface of your driveway.

Technology has advanced, though, and now homeowners can choose between this traditional tube technology or the benefit of a new system that uses an electric system of mats and cables. The cable is pre-spaced within the mats to ensure optimum performance as well as quick and easy installation, which means that this new technology is simpler and faster to install and therefore has lower installation costs. It’s also extremely durable and the cable can be installed in concrete, mortar beds, pavers and asphalt amongst other materials.

Once installed, an activation device (a pavement or aerial mounted snow sensor) will sense moisture and cold temperatures, automatically triggering a controller which activates the snow melting system. In this way you can rest assured that you’re only using the system when you need it.

Benefits of Heated Driveways

Heated driveways offer a variety of benefits to homeowners, including:

• Saving time on shovelling and salting
• Reducing your physical strain and chances of injury
• Increasing safety on your driveway
• Benefitting from long-term savings by not paying for snow removal services
• Designed to extend the life of your driveway by caring for it without the corrosion caused by salt and chemicals or the damage often caused by large trucks and snow plows
In addition, electric snow melting systems are:
• High performance systems that effectively and rapidly melt ice and snow
• Energy efficient
• Affordable to operate
• Easy to install
• Fully automated
• Small – you don’t need to dedicate floor space in your home or garage for equipment, these systems are monitored and controlled by a small, wall-mounted control unit

Costs Associated with Heated Driveways

Heated driveways are, of course, more expensive than a typically driveway. However, it’s an investment in your time and reduced maintenance costs for your home. If you want to estimate your increased utility costs, it will help you to know that the system produces 35-50 watts per square foot.

Things to Consider Before Installing a Heated Driveway

Before you invest in a heated driveway, make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. Although it may be the best way to melt snow on a driveway, there can be complications. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Get an estimate from a reputable company. Ask for a referral from a family member or friend.
• If you’re already planning on replacing your driveway, think about adding a heating system at the same time, to save money and time.
• Consider where you would you park your cars while it is under construction.

Do you have more questions about how heated driveways work? Contact the experts at Grand River Natural Stone to find out if a heated driveway system is right for you.

The post Inground Heating Solutions: How Do Heated Driveways Work? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

General Conditions

Utilities

The client shall make the Contractor aware of all public utilities servicing the property and provide written notation pertaining to all private utilities located on the property and location of property lines. The contractor shall notify the utility companies and arrange for cable locations prior to the commencement of any work.

Client’s Authorized Representative

The Client may designate or appoint one person as an Authorized Representative to work with the Contractor. The Contractor shall be notified in writing of the name and address of this duly appointed representative. This person shall have full authority to approve work performed by the Contractor, make field changes that are deemed necessary and approve estimates and invoices submitted by the Contractor for payment.

Protection of Work and Property

The Contractor shall maintain adequate protection of all his work from damage and shall protect the Client’s and adjacent property from injury or loss arising from this contract.

Examination and Verification of the Drawing and Site

It shall be the Contractor’s responsibility to report to the Client any deviations between drawings, specifications and the site.

Ordinances and Regulations

All local and municipal Rules and Regulations relating to any portion of this work are hereby incorporated into and made a part of these specifications and their provisions shall be carried out by the Contractor. Anything contained in these specifications shall not be construed to conflict with any of the above mentioned regulations or requirements, and where a conflict may occur the regulations of the governing code shall be adhered to. However, when these specifications and/or drawings call for or describe materials, workmanship or construction of a better quality, higher standard or larger size, these specifications and/or drawings shall take precedence over the requirements of said Rules and Regulations.

Materials and Workmanship

Whenever any material is specified by name and/or number thereof, such specifications shall be deemed to be used for the purpose of facilitating a description of the materials and establishing quality, and shall be deemed and construed to be followed by the words “or approved equal”. No substitutions will be permitted which have not been submitted for prior approval by the Client. All materials shall be new and without flaws or defects and shall be the best of their class and kind. Sufficient descriptive literature and/or samples must be furnished for any materials submitted as “equal” substitutes. All materials shall be guaranteed for a period of one year against defects and workmanship. All materials and equipment shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner according to the standard practices of the industry.

Permits and Inspections

Any permit for the installation or construction of any of the work included under this contract, which is required by any of the legally constituted authorities having jurisdiction, shall be obtained and paid for by the Contractor, each at the proper time. He/she shall also arrange for and pay all costs in connection with any inspections and examinations required by these authorities. In all cases, where inspection of the lighting system work is required and/or where portions of the work are specified to be performed under the direction and/or inspection of the Client, the Contractor shall notify the Client of the time when such inspection and/or direction is required. Any necessary re-excavation or alterations to the system needed because of the failure of the Contractor to have the required inspections, shall be performed at the Contractor’s expense.

Controller Location

The Client and Contractor shall mutually agree on the location of the lighting controller.

Changes or Additional Work

The Client or the Contractor may, without invalidating the original contract, order such changes or additions as may from time to time be deemed desirable or necessary. In doing so, the contract price shall be adjusted to the mutual agreement of the Contractor and the Client, with all work being done under the conditions of the original contract except for such adjustments in price and in extension of time as may be necessary.

Unclassified Excavation

Excavation shall be unclassified and shall include all materials encountered. All materials or matter that cannot be excavated by normal excavation means shall be brought to the attention of the Client and an adjustment in price agreed upon before excavation of these areas proceeds. When additional backfill material is needed to replace rock and/or other unsuitable materials, it shall be the Client’s responsibility and expense to supply such material. for backfill, to the Contractor, at the site locations designated by the Contractor. It shall also be the Client’s responsibility to dispose of the unsuitable materials removed from the trench that cannot be used in the backfill operations, unless the foregoing is otherwise agreed upon by the Client and the Contractor.

Insurance

The Contractor shall maintain in force Public Liability and Automobile Insurance with Bodily Injury and Property Damage for electrical work. The Contractor is responsible for insuring all personnel under Worker’s Compensation Board coverage under the appropriate electrical classification.

Guarantee

The entire lighting system shall be guaranteed to be complete as per specifications in every detail for a period of one (1) year from the date of its acceptance, and the Contractor HEREBY AGREES to repair or replace any such defects occurring within that year, free of expense to the Client. Lamps are not guaranteed unless otherwise specified.

As-Built Drawings

Upon completion of the work, (if requested beforehand) the Contractor shall prepare an as-built drawing of the system indicating:

• Junction Box Locations
• Fixture Locations
• Wire Run Locations
• Transformer Locations
• Controller Location

The as-built drawing must be proportionally and diagrammatically correct.

Installation

Excavation and Backfill

1. Trenching

Trenches for electrical conduit and wiring shall be of sufficient width to permit proper handling and installation of the pipe and fittings. Trenches containing conduit for line voltage wiring must have a minimum cover of at least 18” wherever possible and vehicle areas 24” in depth. (refer to Rule 12-012 and Table 53 of the C.E.C. Trenches containing conduit for low voltage wiring must have a minimum cover of at least 12” wherever possible. The backfill shall be thoroughly compacted up to original grade level.

2. Pulling

Where soil conditions allow the pipe depths of cover described above to be met, the electrical conduit may be directly installed without trenching by the use of a vibratory plough. In each of the above operations, the Contractor is responsible for keeping the interior of the conduit free from dirt and debris, and for restoring the site to its original condition, including responsibility for damage to existing trees, shrubs and structures, along with settlement of trenches within the warranty period.

Underground Conduit

1. PVC

All P.V.C. conduit shall be installed in accordance with Rules 12-1200 through 12-1220 inclusive of the C.E.C. All P.V.C. conduit shall be cut with a hacksaw or approved P.V.C. cutters, so as to ensure a square cut. Burrs at cut ends shall be removed prior to installation so that a smooth, unobstructed pull will be obtained. All P.V.C. conduit joints shall be solvent weld joints. Only the solvent recommended by the manufacturer shall be used. All P.V.C. pipe and fittings shall be installed as outlined and instructed by the pipe manufacturer and it shall be the Contractors responsibility to make arrangements with the pipe manufacturer for any field assistance that may be necessary. The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for the correct installation.

2. Poly Pipe

Can be used as the recommended protection for low voltage lighting wire protection.

Pull Boxes and Junction Boxes

In the event that pull boxes and/or junction boxes are used as part of the conduit system, they shall be of an approved type suitable for outdoor installation. The above mentioned boxes shall also remain accessible at all times. (Refer to Rule 12-3018 of the C.E.C.) The size of the required pull boxes shall be determined using Rule 12-3042 of the C.E.C.

Tree Wiring: Procedures

In-Ground Routing and Depth of Conduits and Wire

• Run all conduits parallel to existing main roots anywhere inside “Drip Line” of tree.
• Burial depth as per code where possible.
• Extreme caution to be taken when excavating within 1.3M of tree trunk, so as not to injure tree “buttress flair” root structure.
• All grade mounted fixtures and mounting stakes located so as to allow for normal plant growth with special attention paid to protecting roots and “buttress flair” root structure from po

  Tree Work/Plant Selection

  Trees to be selected for lighting installation are to be in healthy, vigorous, growing condition, free of structural deficiencies and free of disease and decay.

  Location and Routing

  All wire, hardware and fixtures are to be located so as to allow for “normal” plant growth twith special attention paid to:

  • Do not mount hardware or fixtures and do not route wire through any “branch or trunk unions.”
  • Do not encircle any branch or trunk with wire or any other hardware.
  • Keep a minimum of 12” between all new and existing installations of tree hardware.

  Above Grade Wire Protection

  • All wire to be protected by P.V.C. conduit or water resistant flexible conduit (liquid tite) to a minimum of 8’ above grade.
  • Low voltage lines carrying over 100 VA (sample) to be installed as above.
  • All connections to be made in approved junction boxes.

  Wire Type

  • Low Voltage – 12 Gauge, 2 Wire, UV Rated Coating.
  • Line Voltage – 12 Gauge, N.M.W.U. or S.J.T.W.

  Wire Fastening

  • All fastening hardware to be corrosion resistant or made of non-corrodible materials.
  • Conduits are to be secured to tree with normal clips and hardware.
  • Wire to be fastened with galvanized wire staples which have stand off nubs.
  • Do not drive staples into tree past the stand-off nubs so as to squeeze wire but instead leave wire loose so as to allow for tree sway, tree growth, and wire expansion and contraction.
  • Leave a 12” slack or service loop at each junction or fixture to allow for wire “play” and for servicing or relocation.

  Mounting Fixtures, Junction Boxes and Ballasts

  • All to be mounted with a “stand off’type galvanized lag bolt, minimum diameter 3/8”, leaving a minimum of 1” between limb and fixture.
  • Pre-drill all holes for bolt installation to bolt shank diameter.
  • Limbs for fixture installation to be of sufficient size (minimum 2” diameter) and strength to support fixture and hardware installation.

  Tree Wiring: Maintenance

  • A yearly inspection and maintenance of all tree installations is an absolute must and all customers should be made aware of this fact at the time of purchasing system.
  • As determined at time of inspection such procedures as follows will be necessary from time to time:
  • “Back-Off’ any screw type fastening hardware so as to accommodate tree growth.
  • Cut off existing wire-mounting staples and install new staples as required to accommodate tree growth.
  • Relocate or re-secure grade mounted fixtures so as to accommodate for plant (including root) growth and climatic effects.
  • All electrical installations in trees should conform with the Occupational Health and Safety Act which requires a minimum clearance of 10’from any existing electrical utility or energized conductor.
  • Installation personnel, when climbing over 3metres above ground level, must use climbing equipment and techniques which conform with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and which are C.S.A. approved.
  • It is strongly recommended that personnel who are involved in the design and installation of tree mounted lighting systems be well versed in arboriculture as it applies to tree identification, growth habits and care.

  Below Grade Wiring

  All below grade wiring shall be installed in accordance with rule 12-012 and table 53 of the C.E.C.

  Sleeves

  Recommend use of rigid pipe similar to P.V.C. or A.B.S. When installing conduit under sidewalks, roadways, etc., it shall be installed in a sleeve at least 4” in diameter. The sleeve that is used shall be of an approved type and must be installed at the same depth as the remainder of the conduit system. Electrical Sleeves must be DEDICATED for electrical lines only. All sleeving must be sealed and clearly marked as to location for easy location.

  Transformers

  All transformers used in a low voltage lighting installation shall be C.S.A. approved in addition to having local Hydro approval. All transformers must be installed in accordance with Section 16 of the C.E.C. All transformers must be properly fused in accordance with Rules 16-100 through 16-106 and Rules 16-200 through 16-208 inclusive of the C.E.C. All transformers must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and in such a manner as to be kept clear of debris, water, snow, etc.

  Final Hook Up

  All line voltage hookups must be performed by or under the direct supervision or a qualified electrician.

  Materials

  Fixtures

  All fixtures installed in the Landscape Lighting system shall be C.S.A. approved and be suitable for outdoor installation.

  Wire

  All wiring used in the installation shall be C.S.A. approved. It is recommended that 12 gauge wire be used in all landscape lighting installations.

  Power Supply Distribution

  Protection

  The Landscape Lighting system must be protected by an approved fuse or breaker in accordance with Rules 14-100 through 14-304 inclusive of the C.E.C.

  Power Supply

  The supply line brought to the outside wall of the building shall be designated for the sole use of the Landscape Lighting system and shall be minimum 12 gauge in size.

  Maintenance

  Overall Maintenance

  All Landscape Lighting systems shall be maintained by the installing company for a period of one year after the date of installation. A regular maintenance check once a year is required after the first year to monitor tree growth and landscape changes and their effect on the lighting system, See Tree Maintenance Section C.4.

  The post Know what the consumer is responsible for; know what the lighting contractor is responsible for appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

  ]]> https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/difference-home-supply-box-stores-landscape-suppliers/ Wed, 01 Jan 2014 02:36:32 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/?p=123 Given the prevalence of big box stores, we often end up shopping at them without stopping to compare our options. If you are purchasing materials for a basic do-it-yourself landscape project, there is a good chance that a big box home improvement store will have some or all of the products you need. However, it ... Read more

  The post The Difference Between Home Supply Box Stores and Landscape Suppliers appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

  ]]> Given the prevalence of big box stores, we often end up shopping at them without stopping to compare our options. If you are purchasing materials for a basic do-it-yourself landscape project, there is a good chance that a big box home improvement store will have some or all of the products you need. However, it may not be your best choice, for both quality & service (and sometimes even price).

  Don’t ever neglect your locally owned landscape supplies center. Here’s why:

  Product Inventory

  Most big box stores have very few options in their outdoor products sections. They are likely to have only one color of brick, one or two shapes of concrete interlocking pavers, limited options of bagged mulch and topsoil and few, if any, landscape rocks and boulders. When you are designing home landscape improvements, it is important to have different materials options to choose from. Colour, size, shape and style are all important.

  A company that specializes in landscape supplies is going to have many more choices, probably some that you had not thought of; some that nobody else on your street has. For any project that involves large stone, flagstone or boulders, working with a landscape supply center is an absolute must.

  Knowledge, Information and Experience

  Even if you have considerable experience with home landscape projects, it’s always good to talk with an expert before you begin work. Your local landscape supplier specializes in this type of work. They will know much more about their products than the employees at a home improvement store who are expected to know a little bit about everything. Many landscape supply store employees have considerable landscaping experience themselves.

  A landscape supply store can give you reliable advice about the best materials for your project, help you figure out the quantities you need and provide information to make your installation work go easier.

  Supporting Local Businesses

  Stores that are based in your city or region are invested in the local economy to a much greater extent than a box store with locations across the country and continent. Unfortunately, in general, the commitment of box stores and their (often part-time) employees is not going to be the same as someone that grew up in town and has been working with the same group of vendors, contractors and neighbors for many years.

  It may surprise you, but prices are often better at your local landscape supply center. Many products that you have to buy by the bag at box stores are available in larger bulk quantities from a landscape supplier. The cost is usually significantly less. Your local landscape supplier also realizes they need to be cost competitive to stay in business. They are looking for repeat business from customers that value their service.

  If you just need a bag of mulch while you are also shopping for light bulbs and plumbing fixtures, a big box store may be your easiest option. For most other situations, stop and think twice. Big boxes specialize in volume; landscape suppliers specialize in variety, quality and service.

  If you want to explore your landscaping supply options, visit one of our 4 locations today.

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