Third Annual Barber and Haskill Online Treasure Hunt 

Win 4 passes to Pasta and Tube Thursdays at Horseshoe Resort

The game is simple and fun. 

Starting Monday, February 20, 2017 at 8 am we will be releasing clues on our Facebook page to a secret location in the area. The first person to comment on the most recent clue with the correct location wins the prize.  The clues will be released approximately every half an hour and will go until someone guesses the correct location.You can only guess once per clue!

Let the games begin!

Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst

Second Annual Scavenger Hunt

Second Annual Barber and Haskill Online Treasure Hunt 

Win a family of 4 movie pass (including snacks) and a $100 Gift Card to Boston Pizza

The game is simple and fun. 

Starting Saturday, November 5 at 8 am we will be releasing clues on our Facebook page to a secret location in the area. The first person to comment on the most recent clue with the correct location wins the prize.  The clues will be released approximately every half an hour and will go until someone guesses the correct location. Guess up to 3 times per clue. 

Let the games begin!

The family pass includes 2 kids and 2 adults.

Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst

Buttercream Recipe Plus How To Ice Cupcakes!

In case you missed it, a couple weeks ago we cooked cupcakes on our Traeger Bbq. When we first started carrying the Traeger, Tom told us that at high heat the Traeger works just like a convection oven. To be honest, I was a skeptic. How would this BBQ that at low heat is a smoker turn into a convection oven at high heat? We decided to test it out by cooking my favourite thing, cupcakes. 

Online Treasure Hunt!

First Annual Barber and Haskill Online Treasure Hunt 

Win a family of 4 movie pass (including snacks) and a $100 Gift Card to Boston Pizza

The game is simple and fun. 

Starting Saturday, April 23rd at 8 am we will be releasing clues on our Facebook page to a secret location in Midland. The first person to comment on the most recent clue with the correct location wins the prize.  The clues will be released approximately every half an hour and will go until someone guesses the correct location. Guess up to 3 times per clue.

Let the games begin!

The family pass includes 2 kids and 2 adults.

Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst

Selecting the right BBQ Sauce

Since we have been carry the line of wood pellet grills from Traeger it has become evident that these guys care about food especially meat!  Not only do you have the option to use 8 different flavours of wood pellets when cooking to enhance the flavours of anything you are doing low and slow.  Traeger also has a complete line of seasonings with shakes and rubs for any protein you want to cook.  Today let’s take a quick look at the 4 of the BBQ sauces from Traeger and how to best pair them.

Retro Appliances – Is it your kitchen style?

Some people like professional styled appliances, some like a little more simple and some like the style to match themselves.   Is retro your style ?

A new piece on our store floor is the Top Mount Fridge by Elmira Stove Works in Buttercup Yellow, shown above.  

What I Learned While Self Cleaning My Oven

OK, so sadly I confess, I have a very dirty oven. I also have a self cleaning oven which I have never used. My oven cleaning experiences have only ever consisted of two options:

• “Easy Off”, rubber gloves and a bucket of water
• Turning A Blind Eye (definitely the method I have been using on my oven at present)

Because I had never used the “self cleaning” option before and I am not typically one to read instructions I have just simply ignored my oven as you can clearly see.

Quiet Dishwashers Under $1000

In my last post, I introduced you to the quietest dishwashers on our sales floor. In this post, I’ll continue with the “quiet” theme, but with one interesting new factor: the following models all come in with a price point in the $1,000 range or less. 

These models qualify as quiet because all have operating levels around 50 decibels (dB). To put it in perspective, an operating level of 50 dB is similar to the sound of running water in a quiet stream. 

Here are a few machines I’d like to tell you about. 

Do I really need a range hood?

A question that customers raise with me from time to time is: do I really need a range hood, or will an over-the-range microwave do? 

First off, I think it is a good idea to get some kind of ventilation directly over your range to remove the odours, grease and steam from the room. A vent system will protect your cabinetry, walls and other surfaces from harmful steam and grease.  These are things that can discolour, de-laminate and cause other expensive damage to your kitchen if it is not properly addressed.  Also, very few people like the smell of fish, onions or other foods to linger in their home.  The vent system removes those odours before they have a chance to spread throughout your home. 

Introduction of Whirlpool's Ventless Dryer

Whirlpool has just launched one of the most innovative clothes dryers to come along in years:  a full-sized ventless dryer.      

The “ventless” feature makes it unique, because – for the first-time ever – there is no need to have this full-sized unit externally vented. This means that you now have the flexibility to put this dryer anywhere you have access to water drain (needed for the washer anyway) and a 220-volt outlet to plug the dryer in.  It has never been easier to bring the laundry upstairs (or anywhere else!) without the added expense of running dryer venting. 

Just what does Microwave Safe Really Mean?

Have you ever found yourself standing in front of the microwave in the great debate of “do I heat up last night’s dinner in this handy dandy Tupperware container or do I switch it over to glass? Is there really anything harmful seeping into my food? … Does it really matter? After all, the container does say microwave safe.” 

If you have done any type of online investigating you will very quickly learn the popularity of this question and just how much it has been researched. Many studies done to determine the safety of plastic in your Microwave and exactly what is leaching into your food. So the question I have is this: “what on earth does microwave safe mean”? 

What are the Quietest Dishwashers?

In the store today, you can find dishwashers with a range of operating sound levels ranging roughly from 39 decibels (dBA) to 63 dBA. I consider any dishwasher with an operating sound level less than 46 dBA to be very quiet. Because some of these dishwashers are so quiet, many manufacturers have implemented lights or displays to show you that, yes, your dishwasher is operating.

Here are some examples of decibel ratings for some common sounds to give you a comparison:

Rustling grass and leaves: 20 dBA

Whisper in library: 30 -40 dBA

Average fridge: 30 – 45 dBA     

Normal conversation: 50 – 65 dBA

Cleaning Stainless Steel - By Laurel Hooper

So there was a link on our facebook page to Martha Stewart and the best way to clean Stainless Steel, and I normally do not say this out loud as most people make fun of those who like Martha Stewart but for the most part I have always been a fan and wished that I was able to spend days in my craft room and or organizing every closest and drawer I have,  but like most of you I need to earn a living......

And with all due respect to Martha as we have lots of Stainless Steel here to remove finger prints from I would just like to say sorry Martha I feel you are not correct. 

 

Maytag VS Frigidaire Double Ovens

Have you been thinking about buying a double oven free standing range? If so, I’d like to share some insight with you to help you with the process.

Which Type of Dishwasher Loader are You?

As summer is in full swing, many of us are enjoying picnics, backyard dinners, and reunions! However, with all the gatherings comes the dreaded cleanup! We want to know what kind of dishwasher loader are you. Below, you’ll find descriptions of the most common category of dishwasher loader.  Which one are you?  The Jenga Master?  The Border Patrol?  Or maybe you’re the Architect or the Game player.  Or maybe you fill a category we have missed.

1. The Jenga Master

There is always that one person that can find the last tiny space above that tall cup that perfectly fits your favourite bowl. These loaders maximize every space but always tend to use more detergent.

How to Get a Good Night Sleep? Try a good mattress plus these Helpful Tipzzzzz

Do you find yourself all cozy in bed but keep tossing and turning? Looking for the best way to relax after the chaos of day-to-day life? Well we are here to help you turn that tossing and turning into some well deserved z’s.

Nighttime Bandits

When it comes to sleep there are so many factors that can steal a goodnight’s sleep from you! Many main factors are:

·         Level of light in your room

·         Outside sounds

·         Temperature/humidity

·         Mattress softness/firmness

These are a few of the main culprits that can heavily impact your sleep. A few other issues can be poor diet, lack of exercise and stress. Also irregular schedules and shift work can also alter your sleep patterns. Try to create a bedtime ritual to signal to your body that is time to start relaxing and fall into sleep mode, if only it was as simple as pushing a button on a computer.

Pillow Talk: Does your sleep routine have you feeling hot?

If there is one place we are all a little peculiar – it is in our bedtime routine. Some of us need our blankets tucked a certain way into the mattress, others need their pillow nice and cool, and some like sleeping with pillows the size of them! Whatever your routine is to sleep there always seems to be one issue or another keeping us all up at night! Whether it is the feeling of a pea under your mattress, the weight of your sheets, or the dreaded night sweats, something always seems to get in the way of our precious sleep! Let’s focus on something we can help you be more comfortable sleeping with – night sweats!

What Size Mattress Should You Buy?

Buying a mattress that is too small is one of the biggest mistakes we see from new bed-buyers. Many couples start out sleeping on a "double," also known as a full size mattress.  These full size mattresses are 53” wide which –when divided by two – leaves each sleeper exactly the same space as a crib mattress!  In my opinion, this is not enough room for the average adult to get a consistent good night’s sleep.  Here is some info to help you choose the right sized bed for your needs.

Twin Mattress 

A twin mattress, also known as a single mattress, is the smallest possible mattress size we have available.  Twin mattress dimensions are approximately 38 inches wide by 74 inches long. Both twin and full sizes are approximately 74 inches long, which may be too short for some adults, especially those over or close to six feet tall.  There is an extra-long version for taller people that are approximately 38 inches wide by 80 inches long.

Recommendations: Twin mattresses are great for bunk beds or in rooms that are tight for space. The XL twin is a popular choice in college dormitories and other smaller bedrooms with taller users. 

Full Mattress

A full mattress, also known as a double mattress, is approximately 53 inches wide and 74 inches long. This is the size of mattress that most convertible cribs use once it becomes a “big kid” bed.  Like the twin, full sizes are approximately 74 inches long, which may be too short for users close to or above six feet tall.

Recommendations: In my opinion, a full size bed has enough width for a single adult sleeper.  We have seen full pass twin mattress in popularity for teenage bedrooms. Due to convertible cribs, and many parents’ desire to spend quality time with children during their bedtime routine, full size beds are being used more frequently with young children as well, as they provide a comfortable place to rest, read or snuggle together at bedtime. 

Queen Mattress

Queen mattress dimensions are 60 inches wide by approximately 80 inches long – approximately six inches wider and six inches longer than a full size mattress. These extra few inches can make a big difference for couples. This, and the fact that it fits easily into most bedrooms, has made queen size mattress by far our best selling size.  However, with only 30 inches of personal space for each adult, this is nine inches less width than if you were sleeping in a single mattress.

Recommendations: Queen size is a great choice for guest rooms, couples that have space issues in their bedrooms or for couples who prefer to sleep close to each other

King Mattress

The king size mattress dimensions are 76 inches wide by approximately 80 inches long – this is the equivalent space of each partner having space equal to two twin XL mattresses.  This is a big mattress: its size might make it tough for you to fit it into a room, maneuver around corners or haul up a set of stairs, so make sure you measure first.

Recommendations: In my opinion this is the ideal choice for couples.  Every year, the king size seems to grow in popularity.  I think this is largely to do with the size of the master bedroom found in most new homes.  Not only does it allow both partners enough personal space, it also allows room for the mornings when your “alarm clock” is a welcome visit from kids or the family pet.

If you are in the market to buy a new mattress please visit our website or come into the store and salesperson would be happy to assist you with your purchase.
Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst

How to Maintain your BBQ this Summer!

How to Maintain your BBQ this Summer!

With amazing summer weather and glorious long weekends comes BBQ season! However, the more and more we opt out of the kitchen for some delicious BBQ we never seem to clean up the way we would inside. Ever open the lid of your BBQ and see a peeling lid or a greasy grill? Well, worry no more – here are some steps to make your neighbours think you got a brand new grill this BBQ season!

Regular maintenance methods and common cleaning myths

Normal cleaning of the cooking grates is best done after preheating your grill. Brush the grates using a brass bristle grill brush or a Weber stainless steel grill brush. The flavourizer bars can be brushed after the grill has cooled once cooking is done, using the same brush you use for the grates.

Why is the paint peeling inside the lid?

That peeling you see is not paint, just baked-on grease. This occurs frequently with high temperature grilling. To remove the build-up, brush with a brass bristle. Brush before preheating the grill. To prevent buildup, wipe the warm (not hot) lid with a paper towel after cooking.

Putting a cover on my grill is not necessary.  

This fact is true, but we at Barber & Haskill recommend the use of a cover to protect our Weber grills from the elements and to keep the grill clean.  It will help extend the life of the grill, too.

If you are a grill master, then you should consider doing an intensive cleaning to give your BBQ a brand new look! Follow the basic steps in this video and come to Barber & Haskill for all the maintenance tools and tips needed for this BBQ summer season!

Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst

Welcome Ron To Our Team

Welcome Ron To Our Team!

Ron Adams started off his career in Publishing Distribution. He started off at Random House Canada moving up from the warehouse to Director of Operations. Ron also worked closely with Sales and Marketing to properly execute programs and coordinate distribution of printed matter in Canada. This experience set out the path for Ron’s next career move with Wye River Flooring, where he worked selling carpeting, hardwood, tiling, and also assisted in the coordination of installations and scheduling installers.

During his years of selling tiling and flooring installations he met Tom Barber from Barber and Haskill.  It was an easy transition to join the Barber and Haskill Team this spring as a Retail Sales Associate.

What can you expect as a customer of Ron’s? Ron looks to build a foundation for his customers, through experience and exceptional service! He loves to learn about new products and work with his customers to select the best product for their needs. 

Ron isn’t just passionate about his career; he also has a strong passion and love for nature. If he isn’t going above and beyond for his customers, you can find Ron spending time with his beautiful daughters and wife enjoying the beauties of this area. Ron can also be found snorkeling for small treasures, canoeing or kayaking, and biking. Ron is a true outdoorsman.

Another great quality about Ron is his passion for others. Ron spends time assisting seniors with projects like lawn maintenance, small repairs and of course in this area snow removal. He was also awarded with the Medal of Bravery, in 1986 by former Govern General Jeanne Sauve, for a drowning incident in Algonquin Park. Ron’s kindness for others does not end there; he also supports the Canadian Blood Agency, where recently he reached his 100^th donation!

Ron never wants to leave Georgian Bay. It is a perfect place for him to give back to the community and enjoy the nature around him!
Barber and Haskill services; Honey Harbour - Coldwater – Orillia –Barrie –Wasaga Beach- Tiny- Midland - Penetang- Wyevale- Elmavale- Wyebridge- Waverly- Victoria Harbour- Waubaushene-Port McNicol- Perkinsfield- Lafontaine-Moonstone- Craighurst