In this series, we reach out to some contractor colleagues that we’ve gotten to know over the years. You’ll read a bit about their values, how they run their businesses, and how they feel about Blue Jay Exterior Renovations. Because we felt a bit awkward about interviewing our own friends about us, we hired a writer to put this series of articles together. We hope you enjoy it!
A successful siding renovation requires a couple of ingredients. Quality products are part of the recipe, but knowing how best to use them is even more important.
James Hardie siding products are used on over 70 percent of Blue Jay projects, and for good reason. Bjorn Delblanc, co-owner of Blue Jay Exterior Renovations, says this product offers many features that homeowners want.
“It’s the the best looking product and the most flexible from a design point of view,” says Bjorn. “It’s also engineered specifically for Edmonton’s extreme temperatures, which is why it’s so durable year after year.”
Kelly Bryden of Hubbard Roofing and Exteriors in Calgary agrees with Bjorn. “Hardie board is a good long term solution. It looks great.”
Of course, the best products are only as good as the knowledge of the contractor.
When it comes to Hardie products, Blue Jay has a huge advantage: Bjorn has the know-how to ensure his company’s projects are completed to the highest standards. “He knows everything about Hardie,” says Kelly. “For anything Hardie related, he’s the guy.” (Note from Bjorn: I wouldn’t say that I know absolutely EVERYTHING about James Hardie products, but between Paul and I, we do know quite a bit!)
The Blue Jay team gained this expertise while working for James Hardie Building Products, helping contractors around Alberta improve the quality of their Hardie projects. Kelly’s company, Hubbard Roofing and Exteriors, was one of the contractors that benefited from Bjorn’s knowledge.
“All around, the quality definitely went up after dealing with Bjorn,” says Kelly. “He showed us the benefits of using hidden fastening systems for corners and trims which is all in the best interest of the homeowner.”
Kelly adds that Bjorn brought more to the table than just detailed product knowledge. “Bjorn genuinely cared about our company and he was an excellent resource.”
“Bjorn came out to many of our job sites, he critiqued our work, and he shared many tips and tricks to run a clean efficient job site,” adds Kelly. “Our quality went up and our customer service went up.”
Blue Jay Exterior Renovations puts these principles into action with their current customers - outstanding quality and customer service are hallmarks of the homeowner’s experience when working with Paul and Bjorn.
With over 20 years of experience in the renovation industry, Kelly says Bjorn is one of the most well-versed that he’s ever come across. “Out of all the people I’ve dealt with throughout the industry he was the most knowledgeable.”
Kelly thinks so highly of Bjorn’s expertise that he doesn’t hesitate to reach out to Bjorn, even now that Bjorn’s moved on from James Hardie. “He still helps us to this day,” says Kelly. “If I have a question, he’s the guy that I call.”