General

November 6, 2025

Protecting Outdoor Structures During Snow Season

Jenna Composite Decking, General, Landscape Design, Outdoor Living, Patio, Snow & Ice Management awning snow load prevention, deck winter maintenance, eco-friendly ice melt, Greater Toronto Area winter property care, gutter and downspout cleaning, pergola and fence protection, winterizing outdoor structures, wood sealing and waterproofing

Winter in the Greater Toronto Area brings heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and icy winds. For homeowners and businesses, outdoor structures like decks, pergolas, fences, sheds, and awnings are at risk of damage if not properly prepared for the season. Taking the right steps to protect these structures can save you time, money, and headaches later.

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Why Outdoor Structures Are at Risk

Snow and ice are heavy. When they accumulate on roofs, decks, or awnings, they can cause sagging, cracking, or even collapse. Freezing and thawing cycles can also weaken wood, metal, and concrete, leading to long-term damage. Structures that are not well-maintained may also create safety hazards for people using the property.

Key Steps to Protect Outdoor Structures

Remove Snow Regularly

Don’t let snow sit on decks, pergolas, or flat-roofed structures for long periods. Use a roof rake or a soft broom to carefully remove snow, working from the top down. Avoid using sharp tools that can damage surfaces.

Inspect and Repair

Before snow falls, check structures for loose boards, broken supports, or weak joints. Repairing small issues now prevents bigger problems when snow accumulates.

Clear Gutters and Drains

Ice buildup can damage gutters and roofs. Ensure gutters, downspouts, and drainage paths are clear so melting snow can flow away from structures.

Protect Wood and Metal

Apply sealant to wooden decks or structures to prevent water penetration. For metal components, check for rust and apply protective coatings if needed. This simple step reduces corrosion and prolongs the life of your structures.

Secure Loose Items

Outdoor furniture, planters, and decorative items should be moved or secured. Heavy snow and wind can turn unsecured items into hazards that damage structures or cause injury.

Use Caution with Ice

Avoid applying salt or chemicals near wooden or painted surfaces, as this can cause damage. Sand or environmentally safe ice melt products are safer alternatives.

Plan for Heavy Snow Loads

If your property is prone to heavy snowfall, consider temporary supports for vulnerable structures or consult a professional to assess risk areas.

Conclusion

Protecting outdoor structures during the snow season is essential to maintain safety and prevent costly repairs. Simple steps like removing snow, inspecting for damage, and preparing materials can make a big difference.

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Commercial Storefront Landscape Maintenance

August 4, 2025

Commercial Landscape Maintenance for All Seasons

Jenna Commercial Landscaping, General, Landscaping, Snow & Ice Management commercial curb appeal, commercial landscape maintenance, fall leaf removal, seasonal property care, spring lawn aeration, summer irrigation checks, winter snow management, year-round landscaping

Your business’s exterior is more than just grass and trees; it is the first impression your customers and visitors see when they arrive. A well-kept property shows professionalism, attention to detail, and pride in your business. That is why commercial landscape maintenance is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment throughout the year. Every season has unique landscaping needs, and addressing them proactively helps keep your property safe, attractive, and functional all year long.

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Spring:

Revitalizing After Winter

Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your landscape. After months of cold and snow, lawns often need aeration, fertilizing, and debris removal. Seasonal planting adds vibrant colors, while pruning shrubs and trees encourages healthy growth. Regular spring commercial landscape maintenance ensures your property recovers quickly and is ready to welcome employees, customers, and guests in style.

Summer:

Maintaining a Professional Look

The summer months demand consistent care to maintain a clean and professional appearance. This includes mowing, edging, and regular irrigation checks to prevent dry spots or overwatering issues. Weed control and pest management are also key during the warm months to ensure greenery stays healthy and vibrant. A professionally managed summer maintenance plan helps your business property look sharp and inviting, even in extreme heat.

Commercial Landscape Maintenance for All Seasons

Fall:

Preparing for the Cold Months Ahead

As temperatures cool and leaves start to fall, landscaping needs shift to preparation mode. Fall commercial landscape maintenance often includes leaf removal, seasonal pruning, and fertilizing to strengthen grass and plants for winter. Aerating and overseeding lawns in the fall is also a proven way to keep them lush in the following spring. Addressing these tasks now prevents costly issues when the snow melts.

Winter:

Safety and Property Protection

Winter does not mean landscaping stops; it means the focus changes. Snow and ice management are crucial for safety and accessibility, ensuring your employees and visitors can navigate parking lots and walkways safely. Winter pruning also protects plants and trees, preventing damage from heavy snow and ice. With proactive winter maintenance, you protect your investment and keep your business operational in all weather conditions.

Why Partner with MPS Property Services?

Handling seasonal landscaping tasks on your own can be time-consuming and inconsistent. At MPS Property Services, we specialize in commercial landscape maintenance with the tools, expertise, and knowledge to keep your property looking its best year-round. From creating a custom maintenance plan to performing specialized seasonal tasks, our experienced team ensures your landscape not only looks great but also enhances your property’s value.

Final Thoughts

Year-round commercial landscape maintenance is more than just curb appeal; it is about safety, protecting your investment, and presenting a professional image. Whether it is refreshing your property in spring, staying on top of summer upkeep, preparing for fall, or managing winter conditions, consistent care makes all the difference.

Ready to elevate your property’s appearance in every season? Contact MPS Property Services today to learn more about our customized commercial landscape maintenance programs.

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July 23, 2025

Decking Options for Small Urban Backyards

Jenna General, Landscape Design, Patio built in deck seating, composite decking, MPS Outdoor Services, pressure treated wood deck, PVC vinyl decking, small backyard deck ideas, space saving outdoor furniture, urban deck design

City living often means limited outdoor space, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a stylish and functional backyard. With the right design, even the smallest yard can become a cozy retreat or a great spot for entertaining. It all comes down to smart planning, choosing the right materials, and making the most of your space.

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Here’s a guide to decking materials, space-saving ideas, and cost-smart planning to get you started.

Material Comparisons: Choosing the Right Fit

Your deck’s material impacts its appearance, lifespan, maintenance needs, and overall investment.

Here’s how a few popular options compare:

Pressure-Treated Wood:

A widely used choice with a natural look. It’s relatively affordable and can last for years with routine upkeep like sealing or staining. Keep in mind it may require more maintenance over time.

Cedar or Redwood:

Naturally beautiful and resistant to insects and rot. These materials offer long-term durability with less upkeep than standard lumber.

Composite Decking:

Made from recycled materials, it’s low-maintenance, durable, and comes in a range of colours. While the upfront investment is higher, it can pay off through reduced maintenance.

PVC or Vinyl:

Fully synthetic and highly moisture resistant. It’s ideal for small spaces where water might collect and requires minimal care.

Space-Saving Tips for Small Decks

Maximizing a compact space starts with thoughtful design. Try these ideas to get the most out of every square foot:

Built-in Seating:

Replace bulky furniture with benches that double as storage. They help reduce clutter and streamline the space.

Go Vertical:

Add planters, trellises, or privacy screens that grow up instead of out. It’s a great way to add greenery and style without sacrificing floor space.

Multi-Functional Features:

Fold-down tables, built-in planters, or convertible benches keep things flexible and functional.

Light Colours & Clean Lines:

Brighter finishes and simple designs make small areas feel more open and airy.

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Smart Budgeting Without Sacrificing Quality

Smaller decks often require fewer materials, which can help you stay within your budget. That also means you may be able to invest in higher-end materials or custom design features without significantly increasing your overall spend. It’s all about balancing function, durability, and style in a way that fits your goals.

Let’s Design Something Great Together

Your dream deck doesn’t have to stay in your imagination. Whether you have ideas in mind or need guidance from the ground up, the team at MPS can help you create a stunning outdoor space, from concept to completion.

Reach out to us today and let’s start building something beautiful.

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July 10, 2025

Using Aggregates to Improve Drainage in Your Landscape

Jenna General, Landscape Design, Residential News aggregates, crushed gravel landscaping, drainage, drainage aggregates, dry well installation, gravel for drainage, improve yard drainage, landscape drainage solutions, river rock drainage, trench drain solutions

If you’ve ever stepped outside after a big rainstorm and found puddles hanging around your yard or worse, near your house, you’re not alone. Poor drainage is a common problem for homeowners. It can lead to muddy lawns, dying plants, foundation issues, and even water in your basement. But the good news? There’s an easy and affordable fix: aggregates!

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What are Aggregates?

Aggregates are just different types of rock and gravel that help water move through the soil instead of sitting on top of it. Materials like crushed gravel, river rock, trench fill, and dry wells can all make a big difference in how water drains around your home. Let’s break it down.

Why Good Drainage Matters

When water doesn’t drain properly, it creates soggy patches in your lawn, damages plants, and erodes the soil. Over time, it can even cause cracks in your foundation. Taking steps to improve drainage early on can save you a ton of time, stress, and money in the future.

Crushed Gravel: A Solid Start

Crushed gravel is one of the best options for improving drainage. It’s made by crushing big rocks into small, jagged pieces. Those gaps between the pieces give water plenty of space to flow through. Crushed gravel works great under walkways, patios, or around the base of your house to move water away from problem spots.

River Rock: Looks Good, Works Hard

River rock is another great option. These stones are smooth, round, and often used in decorative areas. But they’re not just pretty, they’re functional too. River rock helps water drain while reducing erosion. A dry creek bed lined with river rock not only looks amazing but also keeps water flowing in the right direction.

Fixing Trouble Spots with Trench Fill

Got an area where water always collects? A simple trench filled with trench fill, usually a coarse mix of gravel or stone can redirect that water away from your home or low-lying areas. It’s easy to install and you can even cover it with grass or mulch, so it blends right in.

Add a Dry Well for Heavy Rain

If your yard deals with a lot of runoff or heavy rainfall, consider installing a dry well. It’s essentially a hole filled with gravel that collects excess water and slowly allows it to soak into the ground. This is a great way to manage runoff without turning your yard into a swamp.

Ready to get started?

Contact us at MPS and we’ll help you choose the right aggregate materials for your yard. Whether it’s crushed gravel, river rock, trench fill, or a dry well solution, we’re here to make drainage easy. Let’s protect your landscape together.

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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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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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volunteer-with-donation-box-with-clothes-picture-id1309112046.jpg

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.