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November 7, 2024

Winter 2024-2025 in Southern Ontario: What to Expect from the Farmer’s Almanac

MPS Team Commercial News, General, Residential News, Snow & Ice Management accuracy, almanac, average, cold, environment canada, farmer's almanac, frosty, season, snow, snowfall, southern ontario, trend, weather, weather network

As winter 2024-2025 rolls in, Ontarians are eager for seasonal predictions. While Environment Canada and The Weather Network keep forecasts to short-term projections, the Farmers’ Almanac has been bravely offering full-winter outlooks since 1818, with a self-claimed 75-80% accuracy rate. So, what does the Almanac say this year?

According to their predictions, this winter in Southern Ontario will be one for the books, with colder-than-normal temperatures and higher-than-average snowfall. They’re calling for particularly frosty days in early December, early and late January, and late February. Snowy spells are expected throughout the season, with peak snowfall likely in early November, December, January, February, and even into early March.

In addition, the Farmer’s Almanac warns of a “wet winter whirlwind,” where snow, ice, and rain could all make appearances during an active storm period toward the end of January, which means icy roads and challenging conditions.

However, last winter, the Farmers’ Almanac predicted a cold, snowy season for Southern Ontario, but the reality turned out quite differently. Instead of bitter cold and frequent snow, the 2023-2024 winter was one of the warmest on record, with temperatures averaging 5.2°C above normal nationwide and 5.4°C above average around the Great Lakes. Thanks to a strong El Niño, which often brings milder, drier conditions, snowfall was also below average. So, while the Almanac forecasted a classic Ontario winter, we experienced an extended fall-like season that barely resembled it.

For those who rely on the Almanac’s century-old methods—based on celestial and meteorological patterns—there’s a sense of anticipation and curiosity. Whether or not the Farmer’s Almanac’s predictions will prove accurate this year, we’ll have to wait and see. Let the winter begin!

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September 16, 2024

What’s the Difference Between Spring, Summer, and Fall Planters in Ontario?

MPS Team Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News Begonias, Colors, Daffodils, fall planters, frost-tolerant, Gardening, Hyacinths, Lantanas, ontario, Pansies and Violas, Seasonal Planters, Spring planters, summer planters, Tulips, types of plants

Gardening in Ontario offers unique opportunities with each season, from the types of plants to growing conditions and colors. Understanding the distinctions between spring, summer, and fall planters helps create vibrant displays throughout the year.

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Pots containing spring flowers on a patio

Spring Planters

Plants for Spring: Spring planters in Ontario are all about celebrating the end of winter and welcoming new growth. The focus is on hardy, early-blooming plants that can withstand the cool temperatures of early spring. Key choices include:

Tulips: Bright, cheerful blooms in various colors.
Daffodils: Early bloomers with vibrant yellow and white petals.
Pansies and Violas: Frost-resistant flowers in deep purples and bright yellows.
Hyacinths: Fragrant, colorful spikes adding height and dimension to planters.

Growing Conditions for Spring: Spring in Ontario can be unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and the risk of frost. Select plants that are frost-tolerant and adapt well to changing conditions. Choose well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots from spring rain. Position planters in sunny spots to maximize growth since spring plants require plenty of sunlight.

Summer Planters

Plants for Summer: Summer planters thrive with heat-loving, sun-loving plants that bring bold, vibrant colors to your garden. Consider these options:

Geraniums, Petunias, and Calibrachoas: A classic combination that thrives in full sun, offering continuous blooms in shades of red, pink, white, orange, and purple.
Lantanas, Verbenas, and Salvias: These attract pollinators and add vibrant clusters of flowers in various colors. Salvias also provide height with their spiky blooms.
Zinnias, Marigolds, and Ornamental Grasses: Heat-tolerant and pest-resistant, these plants bring bright hues and a soft, airy look to your planters.
Begonias, Impatiens, and Sweet Potato Vines: Ideal for shaded areas, these plants offer a range of colors and a lush, trailing effect.
Cannas, Coleus, and Elephant Ears: For a tropical feel, mix these plants with striking foliage and bold colors that thrive in summer heat.

Growing Conditions for Summer: Summer planters need plenty of sunlight and regular watering to combat the hot weather. Check soil moisture daily and water deeply to maintain root health. Fertilize regularly to support continuous blooming. Deadheading spent flowers helps encourage new growth and prolongs the blooming season.

Fall produce arranged on a display during Thanksgiving season

Fall Planters

Plants for Fall: As temperatures cool, fall planters offer a chance to play with rich colors and textures. Hardier plants that can withstand cooler nights and shorter days are ideal:

Mums (Chrysanthemums): Dense, colorful blooms in shades of yellow, red, orange, and purple.
Asters: Daisy-like flowers in blue, purple, and pink.
Ornamental Cabbages and Kales: Frilly leaves in purple and green add texture.
Heucheras (Coral Bells): Striking foliage in colors from lime green to deep burgundy.
Sedum (Stonecrop): Succulents with fleshy textures and pink or red blooms.

Growing Conditions for Fall: Fall brings shorter days and cooler nights, meaning less frequent watering is needed. Plants for fall planters are usually drought-resistant and can handle light frost. The cooler weather helps retain soil moisture, so overwatering should be avoided. Position planters to receive full to partial sun for optimal plant health.

Colors and Themes for Seasonal Planters

Spring Colors: Soft, bright, and cheerful, with pastel pinks, purples, whites, and yellows that evoke a sense of renewal and freshness.
Summer Colors: Bold, vibrant, and lively with hot pinks, reds, deep purples, sunny yellows, and bright oranges. The season is about making a colorful statement with a mix of plant textures.
Fall Colors: Rich, warm hues like deep oranges, fiery reds, and golden yellows, reflecting Ontario’s changing foliage. You can also experiment with purples, browns, and blues for dynamic contrasts against autumn colors.

Conclusion

Each season offers unique opportunities to bring color and life to your outdoor space. Spring planters celebrate new beginnings with frost-resistant blooms, while summer planters thrive in the heat with vibrant, sun-loving plants. Fall planters provide warmth and depth with hardy plants suited for cooler weather. By selecting the right plants and understanding their specific growing conditions, you can enjoy beautiful planters throughout the year, each reflecting the charm of its season. Embrace the seasonal changes and let your planters tell a story all year round!

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July 22, 2024

Hardscape vs. Softscape Landscaping – What’s the difference?

MPS Team Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News brick, color, concrete, decks, flowers, hardscape, living components, non-living elements, pathways, patios, plants, regulations, shrubs, softscape, stone, texture, trees, walls, wood

When designing a landscape, it’s important to understand the difference between hardscape and softscape.

Hardscape

Hardscape refers to the non-living elements of a landscape design. This includes structures like patios, decks, pathways, retaining walls, and other built environments. These elements are permanent and often constructed using materials like stone, brick, concrete, or wood. Hardscaping plays a critical role in defining spaces, providing functional areas, and managing slopes and soil erosion.

Softscape

Softscape, on the other hand, includes the living components of a landscape, such as plants, trees, shrubs, flowers, and sod. These elements are dynamic and change with the seasons and growth. Softscaping adds color, texture, and life to a landscape, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and ecological balance. It also helps manage water, absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff.

Municipal bylaws often require that a certain percentage of front and backyard areas be allocated to softscape. This ensures an environmental balance and efficient water management. These regulations make sure that while homeowners can enjoy the structural benefits of hardscaping, enough green space is preserved to support local ecosystems and natural water infiltration.

Balancing hardscape and softscape is essential for creating a cohesive and functional outdoor space. Proper planning ensures that hard elements provide structure and usability, while soft elements offer beauty and environmental benefits. Whether you’re planning a new garden or renovating an existing one, integrating both aspects thoughtfully will result in a harmonious and sustainable landscape design.

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June 24, 2024

Should I Install Artificial Turf or Natural Grass for My Backyard Putting Green?

MPS Team General, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Residential News artificial turf, backyard landscape, Backyard putting greens, benefits, cost, environmental benefits, Environmental Impact, golf, maintenance, Markham, materials, Performance, pet owners, pros and cons, putting greens, real grass, Residential putting greens, synthetic materials, Toronto, turf, Versatility

Backyard putting greens are quickly becoming a very popular backyard landscape feature we’re seeing being requested in the Markham and greater Toronto area. Residential putting greens look great, provide a fun outdoor activity and might even help with your golf game! When contacting a landscape contractor to design and build your backyard putting green, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether artificial turf or real grass is a better choice for you. There are pros and cons to both materials, so we’ve broken it down to make your decision easier!

Cost

Either option will run you about $10-20 per sq ft depending on the choice of turf and size. Artificial turf will have a larger upfront cost, but it is essentially maintenance-free. While the initial investment for artificial turf can be steep, the long-term savings on maintenance costs might make it more economical in the long run.

Maintenance

Artificial turf is low maintenance. It doesn’t require watering, cutting, fertilizing, or weeding. A quick sweep or power wash is all it needs to stay in top condition. This makes artificial turf an attractive option for those who prefer a hassle-free solution.

On the other hand, real grass requires a significant commitment to upkeep. You’ll need to invest in a special lawn mower and dedicate time to everyday maintenance for your putting green. This includes regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and weeding. The everyday maintenance can be time-consuming and may require professional help to keep the grass in optimal condition for putting.

Performance

When it comes to performance, both artificial turf and real grass have their own benefits. Artificial turf provides a consistently smooth and fast playing surface, which is ideal for practicing your golf game. It remains green and playable year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Real grass, particularly the Creeping bentgrass, is widely considered the best for premium putting greens. Its finely textured blades allow balls to roll easily, with less resistance, for smooth, fast play. However, maintaining this high-quality surface requires diligent care and attention.

Versatility

Artificial turf is highly versatile and can be installed in areas where natural grass might struggle to grow, such as shaded spots or areas with poor soil quality. It’s also an excellent option for smaller backyards and dog runs, where constant use might damage real grass.

Real grass offers a natural look and feel that many homeowners prefer. It also contributes to a healthier environment by producing oxygen, filtering pollutants, and providing a habitat for wildlife. However, achieving a lush, healthy lawn requires favorable growing conditions and regular maintenance.

Ease of Cleaning

Artificial turf is easy to clean. A quick sweep or hose down is usually enough to keep it looking pristine. For pet owners, artificial turf is particularly advantageous as it can be easily sanitized to remove pet waste.

Maintaining the cleanliness of real grass can be more challenging, especially if you have pets. Pet waste can damage the grass and create unsightly spots. Additionally, fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris require regular removal to keep the grass looking neat.

Environmental Impact

Artificial turf does not require water, which is a significant advantage in regions with water restrictions or during drought periods. However, it is made from synthetic materials, which may not be as environmentally friendly as natural grass. Additionally, artificial turf can become very hot in direct sunlight, potentially affecting the usability during summer months.

Real grass, while requiring substantial water and chemical inputs, offers environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration, natural cooling, and supporting biodiversity. The choice between the two often comes down to weighing these environmental impacts against each other.

Learn about our commitment to the environment.

Conclusion

Choosing between artificial turf and real grass for your backyard putting green depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you prefer a low-maintenance, consistently high-performing surface, artificial turf might be the best option for you. It’s particularly suitable for those with smaller backyards, dog runs, or areas where natural grass struggles to thrive.

However, if you value the natural aesthetic and environmental benefits of real grass and are willing to invest the time and effort required for maintenance, a real grass putting green could be the perfect choice. Creeping bentgrass, with its smooth, fast-playing surface, is an excellent option for those who want a premium golf experience at home.

Ultimately, both artificial turf and real grass have their own set of advantages and challenges. Consider your budget, maintenance preferences, and environmental impact when making your decision. Whatever you choose, a backyard putting green can be a beautiful and enjoyable addition to your home.

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May 22, 2024

The True Cost of Choosing the Lowest Priced Landscape Company

MPS Team General, Landscaping inadequate knowledge, lack clear timeline, lack of warranty, lowest-priced, permitting issues, repairs, replacements, safety concerns, short lifespan, subpar quality, unreliable contractors

In the pursuit of cost savings, it’s tempting to opt for the lowest priced option when it comes to landscaping projects. After all, who doesn’t want to save a few bucks? However, the reality is that choosing the cheapest landscape company can often lead to far greater expenses down the line. From lack of expertise to shoddy workmanship, the drawbacks can outweigh any initial savings. Let’s delve into why cutting corners on your landscape contractor might end up costing you dearly.

1. Lack of Warranty and Repair Services:

Cheap landscape companies often cut corners by skipping warranties and after-sales services. When issues arise, you may find yourself on your own, footing the bill for repairs or replacements. This lack of support can quickly turn a seemingly inexpensive project into a financial headache.

2. Inadequate Knowledge and Permitting Issues:

Knowledge is key in the landscaping business, especially when it comes to navigating local bylaws and obtaining permits. Low-cost companies may lack the expertise needed to secure necessary permits or adhere to building codes, putting you at risk of fines or project delays.

3. Short Lifespan and Unreliable Contractors:

Many budget landscape companies have short lifespans. They may go out of business or rebrand, making it nearly impossible to track them down for warranty claims or follow-up work. This instability can leave you high and dry when you need assistance the most.

4. Subpar Quality and Safety Concerns:

Inexperienced contractors often deliver subpar workmanship, compromising the quality and safety of your landscape. From uneven paving stones to poorly installed features, the results may not only look unappealing but also pose safety hazards to you and your family.

5. Lack of Start-to-Finish Promise:

Cheap landscape companies may lack a clear timeline or project management structure, leading to a chaotic and prolonged construction process. This continuous back-and-forth can disrupt your daily life, create a mess on your property, and strain relationships with your neighbors.

6. Hidden Costs of Repairs and Replacements:

When the initial work is of poor quality, you’ll likely end up paying more for repairs or replacements in the long run. Fixing botched installations or addressing safety issues can significantly inflate your overall expenses, erasing any initial savings you may have enjoyed.

The image on the left is an example of a poorly installed patio with armor stone. Large gaps between the bricks are apparent, which will inevitably lead to shifting and sinking over time. Additionally, these gaps provide an opportunity for weeds to grow up between the stones, further compromising the integrity of the installation. Conversely, the image on the right showcases stone that has been correctly cut into the armor stone, resulting in a seamless fit without any gaps.

7. Reduced Longevity and Value:

Cut-rate landscaping often translates to inferior materials and rushed construction methods, resulting in a shorter lifespan for your outdoor features. The money you save upfront will pale in comparison to the cost of frequent repairs or premature replacements down the line.

In conclusion, while choosing the lowest priced landscape company might seem like a savvy financial move, the potential pitfalls far outweigh any short-term savings. From lack of warranty support to safety concerns and hidden repair costs, the risks associated with budget landscape contractors can quickly add up. Investing in a reputable and experienced landscape contractor may require a higher upfront investment, but the long-term benefits in terms of quality, reliability, and peace of mind far outweigh the initial cost. Remember, when it comes to your outdoor space, it pays to prioritize quality over affordability.

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December 2, 2022

What to Know About Living in Markham

MPS Team General

Located just 30 km northwest of downtown Toronto, with a population of 340 000, Markham, Ontario, is a wonderful place to call home. With one of the lowest crime rates of any Canadian urban centre, Markham is a quintessential cross-section of the Canadian dream. This guide to living in Markham will break down the most popular neighbourhoods in the city and some fun activities you can do year-round.

Great Neighborhoods to Live with a Family in Markham

East Markham makes up the neighbourhoods of Greensborough, Cornell and Box Grove, which are popular with young families. This is partly due to location—the neighbourhoods are very close to Milliken Hills and its surrounding area, where IBM, Oracle, Motorola and Honeywell have offices. It is also appealing because the homes are affordable. Many homes in this area are townhomes and duplexes with multigenerational dwellings.

Another area with plenty of affordable houses is South Markham, with homes built in the 70s and 80s that offer a great bang for your buck in terms of square footage.

For those with a bigger budget, there are many beautiful houses with breathtaking historical features in West and Central Markham. West Markham, in particular, has many large one-acre lots, including sprawling estate homes with triple garages. As a result, there are many possibilities for custom landscaping to make the outdoor spaces unique.

If you are a golf aficionado, check out the communities of Angus Glen and Berczy Village in Central Markham. These are communities that have been built entirely around golf courses, making it one of the best areas to live in Markham, Ontario.

Things to Do in Markham

The Markham fair is an annual occasion that attracts 80,000 people. It is put on by the Agricultural Society. Markham also offers many hiking and cycling trails, indoor swimming pools and skating rinks. The community also has a museum and a public library.

The historical districts in Markham are laden with buildings that are 200 years old and have been converted into shops and boutiques. Central Markham offers a historic, picturesque experience of old Ontario living.

In addition, there are plenty of quality restaurants in Markham that focus on Asian and Indian cuisine. You’ll also find excellent Italian restaurants too.

If you like shopping, CF Markville Mall houses over 140 stores, including all the big brands and amenities one would expect in a large, urban shopping mall.

Living in Markham as a Newcomer

Markham provides support for newcomers by offering language interpretation services and vocational training. In a community like Markham, the Canadian dream is possible. Markham is one of the most educated, dynamic, and prosperous centres in Canada, where all are welcome.

Regardless of the neighbourhood or type of dwelling you choose, reach out to MPS Property Services team today to discuss the possibilities.

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November 4, 2022

Predictions for the 2022-2023 Winter Season

MPS Team MPS Updates

What is this year’s winter going to be like?

For those of us in the Snow & Ice Management industry it is a question we receive with alarming regularity. How could we not know? Afterall, we are supposed to be trusted experts. Coming up with an answer is easy. Coming up with the correct answer is an entirely different ballgame altogether!

The true experts, experienced meteorologists who toil at The Weather Network or Environment Canada put a great deal of effort into providing long range seasonal predictions based on years of statistical analysis, satellite technology, computer algorithms, and, if I’m not mistaken, just a little bit of guesswork. They’ll toss around terms like polar vortex, La Nina or temperature inversion to solidify their standing in the world of weather prediction. They’ll huff and puff with the force of an Alberta Clipper, but at the end of it all, they turn out to be wrong just as much or more often than they are right. Mother Nature, just like the Casino, always seems to win in the end, surprising them all. I’d be more than happy if they got their 5-day forecasts correct on a regular basis to be honest, let alone long-term!
So, what are they predicting for us this winter? The general consensus seems to be for a colder than normal winter, with above-normal precipitation and snowfall. The snowiest periods will be in late November, early & late December (not mid-December apparently), and mid-January.

What about the Farmer’s Almanac though? Their mix of intuitive divination using natural clues in the behavior of plants and animals, mixed with a pinch of sorcery, leads to great success (according to them at least) in accurately predicting seasonal weather. The problem is, which version of Almanac? The one I have used in the past seems to agree for the most part with the meteorologists; they claim with a high degree of “certainty” that it will be a very cold, snow-filled winter, although mid-December will be one of the snowiest periods. Looks like December will be a whopper!

The team at MPS Property Services can assist you with a wide range of residential services that can enhance your outdoor living space. Contact us today for more details!

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So, it seems the forces of prognostication are speaking with one voice this year, and yet I still have my doubts. Call it intuition, or experience, or even madness, but I just don’t believe that after being so wrong so often, they have suddenly got their act together. Although a broken clock can still be right twice a day, I just don’t have faith in their predictions, for I have learned to follow a more philosophical approach in recent years.

What do I think will happen this winter? I will refer to Act V, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, and let Brutus speak for me:

“O, that a man might know the end of this day’s business ere it come! But it sufficeth that the day will end, and then the end is known.”

Wise man, that Brutus. I guess we’ll find out in the spring!

Ken Jorgenson

October 24, 2022

Jobs in Snow Removal and Snow & Ice Management

MPS Team About MPS, Commercial News

Do you think you have what it takes to work in snow removal? Snow removal work is definitely not for the faint of heart! It takes commitment, dedication, and perseverance but the benefits of good pay, the sense of accomplishment you will experience, and time off during the winter months is worth it!

The MPS snow removal season officially begins Nov. 1 and runs through to April 30^th; however, snow work is only required when there is snow falling or conditions become icy. Typically, December, January, and February are the busiest months for snow removal work in the GTA.

MPS only provides commercial snow removal services. If you’re not familiar with the snow removal industry, you might be wondering what’s the difference between residential and commercial? The biggest difference between the two is the scale of work involved, a commercial plaza or office building requires much larger equipment and more time to service than residential driveways. At MPS we only operate heavy equipment for commercial snow plowing, plowing with large front-end loaders allows the operators to push heavy piles of snow across large areas of asphalt.

All winter positions at MPS are on-call and weather dependent. This means we look for individuals with flexible schedules, who don’t mind working odd hours or driving in winter conditions. We typically receive the most snowfalls at night, so this is when most snow removal work is completed.

Seasonal industries and positions that work well with MPS’ snow work include machine operators, heavy equipment operators, construction workers, paving companies, summer-only landscapers, roofing, and general labourers.

Available Positions for Snow Removal Operations

Field Staff:

Walkway Shovellers: Our walkway crews are responsible for clearing snow from and/or salting commercial walkways, entrances, and stairs. These crews of 2-3 people use shovels, snow blowers, and “SnowRator” walkway plows to effectively clear the snow.
Salt Truck Operators: To salt commercial parking lots, our salt truck operators drive large trucks with salt-spreader units on the back.
Snow Plow Operators: Snow Plow Operators use front end loaders, equipped with 5-way angle blades, to plow and pile snow on commercial parking lots.
Field Supervisors: The role of a field supervisor is to over-see and assist the walkway shovellers and plow operators in the performance of their duties.

Operations Staff:

Dispatchers
Mechanics
Office Support Staff

MPS has provided snow removal work for almost 30 years, growing into one of the largest private commercial snow removal companies in the GTA. During the winter months, our number of skilled field staff grows significantly to be able to provide the highest level of snow and ice management to our customers – this means we have multiple opportunities for individuals looking for jobs in snow removal.

MPS offers high hourly wages, bonuses, and monthly standby pay for all positions. If you think you’ve got what it takes to be a member of our Winter Snow Team

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September 22, 2022

Where to Donate Clothes and Other Items in Markham

MPS Team Donation, General

Whether you’re making room for a new seasonal wardrobe or are looking for ways to help the less fortunate, donating clothes can benefit you, the community and the environment.

Below, we discuss where to drop off second-hand clothes in the city of Markham.

How to Recycle Clothes

Clothes that are in good condition have no place in landfills. High-quality fabrics can be worn and washed again and again, making it much more sustainable to recycle and reuse them. Plus, thrifting and buying vintage is more popular now than ever.

Generally, recycling clothes is easy. If you’re savvy with a sewing machine, you could repurpose the fabrics of pieces you don’t wear anymore. Or, you could donate clothes which is even easier and can help someone in need.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to donate clean clothes that have minimal imperfections. Most thrift stores and donation centres do not have the means to wash all the clothes that come to them, so you’ll be doing the next owner of your clothes a favour by having them cleaned beforehand.

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Where to Donate Clothes in Markham, ON

Are you doing a closet cleanout and want to know the best places to donate clothes? Below, we list the most popular and accessible places to drop off clothes in Markham.

1. MARKHAM THRIFT STORES

Thrift stores are a popular place to dump hauls of old clothes. Most thrift stores have an accessible bin right in the front of the store where you can drop off bags of clothes and other items. Thrift store workers will then sort through these items and price them according to their condition, quality and style.

Markham has several well-known thrift store, including Value Village, The Salvation Army and the Habitat ReStore.

Thrift stores in Markham:

Value Village – 7655 Markham Road
The Salvation Army – 9293 Markham Rd
Habitat ReStore – 7701 Woodbine Ave
Plato’s Closet – 1210 Castlemore Ave
Care & Share Thrift Shop – 33 Ringwood Dr

2. MARKHAM TEXTILE DONATION BINS

There are several textile donation bins located throughout the city. All items donated to these bins go to people in need and are not resold for a profit. You can place clothes, shoes and even damaged items in these bins. According to the city of Markham’s website, textile donation bins can be found at any local recycling depot, including:

Markham Village Recycling Depot – 6041 Highway 7 East
Milliken Mills Recycling Depot – 7660 Kennedy Road
Thornhill Recycling Depot – 5 Green Lane
Unionville Recycling Depot -139A Main Street

MPS Property Services is happy to help those in Markham give back to their community and adopt more sustainable practices. Contact our team today if you have any questions about the community in general or are curious to know how MPS gives back. We’ll be happy to answer any inquiries you may have.

August 17, 2022

Asphalt & Interlock Paving Stone Driveway Options

MPS Team General, Landscaping

Your driveway has a big impact on the ‘curb appeal’ of your home; it’s one of the first features a visitor sees and can say a lot about your home. A well-maintained driveway that ties into a beautiful front entrance landscape, makes for a welcome first impression. When you’re thinking of upgrading your front landscape and driveway landscape, there are a couple of common options, including paving, full interlock, or a mix of interlock and paving. There are benefits to all 3 options offered by MPS, let’s take a look at them.

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt paving is the most common material used for driveways in the GTA. Asphalt is the least expensive option and gives a clean, modern look to your front entrance landscape. Asphalt is easy to maintain and if done well it’ll last a long time. However, over time, if areas of your driveway naturally settle, you’ll need to re-pave the entire driveway. One other thing to consider is upkeep, asphalt will fade over time, from a dark black colour to light grey, so if you like the look of a dark driveway then you’ll need to maintain it with an asphalt sealing product annually.

Full Interlock Paving Stone Driveway

A driveway with full interlock paving stones creates a ‘show stopping’ look for your home and front landscape. Incorporating interlock pavers into your driveway creates a statement piece and helps tie in the colours of your home’s exterior and landscape together. Along with looking great, another feature we like about interlock driveways is the ability to repair them. Interlock driveways offer the ability to quickly and easily fix any bricks that settle or become stained, by simply lifting and relaying a new stone. If a section of your driveway starts to settle, you won’t need to re-do the entire driveway just the small section. However, full interlock driveways are expensive, about 3 times more expensive than traditional asphalt paving. This is because interlock paving stones are a more expensive material and they require a deeper base than asphalt. Another quality to consider is the difficulty that interlocking paving stones create for snow removal. Due to the natural ridges and joints between interlock paving stones, it creates a difficult surface to shovel or plow snow.

Paved Driveway with Interlocking details

Paved Driveway with Interlock Detail

From an esthetic, functionality, and budget perspective, the landscape designers at MPS encourage our customers to go with a traditional paved asphalt driveway with an interlock detail. The interlock paving stone detail can be used as a border, running along the sides of the driveway, or paving stones can be cut into the top of the driveway by your garage. The interlock detail is a great way to tie in your front entrance landscape to your driveway, giving it a designer look. An asphalt driveway with an interlock border is a cost-effective way to add a “statement piece” to your front landscape. Interlock details will also have less of an effect on snow removal since the main part of the driveway that is plowed is asphalt. If you’re planning to put in an interlock paving detail, we do recommend re-paving your driveway to ensure both the driveway and paving stones are level. Sometimes if you’re trying to set in paving stones to an existing driveway, the stones will need to be graded to match the driveway and they will look unlevel in some areas.