Get Nailed: 5 Tips for Summer Building Projects

If there is one thing you can be sure of it's that you can't build your fence in the Winter time. No, no. You can't build your fence, repair your deck or make a treefort for the kids in the heart of January. Really, there is only one season where the air is warm enough and the days long enough to tackle this type of project: summer. So to help you make the most of the short days available for all of your summer ambitions, we've compiled a list of 5 great building project tips.

1) Make a Self Build Schedule

You know that old saying, "if you fail to plan, you plan to fail." Well - don't let this happen to you. There is nothing worse than staring out at a half finished project all winter, or having a weekend project stretch out over the whole summer. So before you even hammer that first nail, make sure you throw together a little timeline to keep you on track.

2) Get the Proper Equipment

We know you could probably McGuyver anything to do the trick in a bind, but not only does it take more time - it is usually unnecessary. If you can't afford to buy the right saw/sander/drill/level or anything else ask around, because one of your friends, neighbours or family members probably has what you're looking for. Just do yourself a favour and amass all the right tools before you get going- this way you won't run into any unnecessary delays.

3) Know the Code

We've all heard horror stories of someone building a beautiful fence only to be forced to take it down because it didn't match the code or regulations for the area they lived in. Don't be that guy. Read up on what all the rules are in your subdivision, city or town before you get going, and get the necessary approvals in advance if you need to.

4) Measure Twice, Cut Once

This one is so basic it's funny to put it in writing - but seriously! Many construction heartbreaks can be avoided by taking that extra time to double check your work before going all the way.

5) Get a Team Together

No one wants to go it alone- it's more fun, quicker and probably better for the final outcome if you bring a couple of friends together to help you. Not only does it build community (it's a great way to get to know your neighbours) but it makes the work better. Recruit people to help you build, and allow yourself to be recruited when others need help. Together we can build awesome things.

You might be thinking "Princess... what do you know about building projects?" But as you can see, even a Princess knows a thing or two about how to make something awesome. Hope you have fun in your backyards this summer, or wherever your building projects may take you. Remember, if you need extra tools for the job we've probably got what you need at one of our Cash Canada locations. We always have many tools on hand, so come on down and take a look!

Wish It Forward Fund

Cash Canada has long been in the business of supporting the communities we're active in through fundraising and non-profit initiatives. Well, because of the substantial way in which our business has grown, we are now able to do this on an even larger scale. Our desire is to lend a helping hand to individuals, families and organizations that need support.

In order to do this, we have created the Wish It Forward Fund. I - ladies and gentlemen- am the spokesperson for this fund. I guess they like me a little bit over at Cash Canada! The mission of this initiative is to "spread kindness one act at a time." So far we've already done some kindness spreading- we gave a laptop to a lady who needed one for school but couldn't afford it, we bought some baby formula for an expectant mother, and we set up a Christmas tree and provided a TV and video games as a Christmas gift to a family who couldn't afford it. 

This is a grassroots movement with no administration fees attached. It is simply our company trying to find ways to do good in the world. In fact, 100% of the funds raised through our special sales and fundraising efforts go straight into our efforts to do good.

Keep your eyes peeled so you can be a part of all the good we hope to do!