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Planning an Eco-Friendly Kitchen Renovation

September 25, 2017 No Comments

Wondering how you can make your kitchen more eco-friendly? Well, there are plenty of ways – from big changes and additions to simple ones like using non-toxic paint on the walls, minimizing wasteful products, and encourage recycling and composting. But those are just the tip of the iceberg. For more ideas when planning out an eco-friendly kitchen renovation, read on. Install Natural Flooring Starting from the ground up, consider the type of flooring that will be installed. There are plenty of natural options like hard wood, or linoleum that don’t contain the toxins that are found in many other manufactured materials. But one option that is gaining popularity is cork. This is a very sustainable material and is of course, non-toxic. It’s a better eco-friendly option in comparison to other natural woods such as oak since cork trees regenerate every nine years as oppose to oak trees (among others) that can take over 30 years. That’s a big difference! So when considering what floor to place down, give some serious thought to cork, which is available at roughly the same price as other wood flooring. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances Between the amount of appliances that get used in the kitchen, this is where a great deal of energy can be wasted, which adds more stress to our environment. If you’re considering an upgrade, make sure to look for that Energy Star label that will tell you it’s energy efficient. And if your budget can’t stretch as far to replace all of your appliances, then just consider some of the ones that are major energy hogs like the fridge, oven and dishwasher. These three are generally the most wasteful and expensive, so by upgrading you can save money too. Use a Water-Saving Faucet Wasting water is something we are all guilty of. But there are ways to help combat our bad habits. For example, installing a water-saving faucet is a really helpful addition to any eco-friendly kitchen plan. With a flow rate around 2.2 gallons per minute, it helps you conserve water without even thinking about it. Refinish & Refurbish Rather Than Replace Think your cupboards look dated? Well instead of ripping them down and adding that to a landfill, consider saving time and money by giving them a facelift. As more homeowners are looking for ways to cut down on costs, refurbishing older items to look better than new, is more popular than ever. Give them a good sanding and get creative with your (non-toxic) paint. When you’re ready to get on board with an eco-friendly kitchen renovation, take note of these key areas that can transform your kitchen into something beautiful for both you and the environment. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Mobility Renovations: Do You Have a Safe Entryway?

September 18, 2017 No Comments

Worried about falls in your entryway? Read these mobility renovations: do you have a safe entryway? Having an entryway that enables you to exit and enter the home quickly is not only important for safety reasons, but it’s also an important matter to address for the sake of efficiency, independence and dignity for those living with mobility limitations. Thankfully, there are many alterations – from big ones to minor ones – that can make your entranceway a breeze to get through for anyone using mobility devices such as a wheelchair or walker. If you’re wondering whether you have a safe entryway, here are some factors to consider to help assess it and to give you ideas on how it could be improved for efficiency and safety. Have a Clear Pathway Before installing any additions to assist in entering and exiting, you should first take a look at the walkway leading up to your entryway. This should be cleared from any obstacles, such as overgrown hedges and garden debris. If there is any patio stones that are weathered and buckling or loose, these should be addressed and replaced first. Before stepping up your home’s accessibility, ensure a smooth and safe pathway to your entryway. Here’s how: 1. Clear the Path: Remove obstacles: Eliminate overgrown hedges, branches, garden debris, or anything that could obstruct the walkway. Address uneven surfaces: Repair or replace cracked, buckling, or loose patio stones that pose tripping hazards. Trim back vegetation: Ensure plants and shrubs don’t encroach on the pathway, especially near steps or railings. 2. Enhance Visibility: Install proper lighting: Brighten the walkway with motion-sensor lights or solar-powered options for improved visibility, especially at night and during bad weather. Clear snow and ice promptly: Keep the pathway free of wintery hazards to prevent slips and falls. 3. Consider Additional Safety Measures: Handrails: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of steps or along inclined walkways for added support and balance. Non-slip surfaces: Opt for textured or non-slip surfaces on walkways and steps to minimize the risk of slipping, especially in wet or icy conditions. Contrasting colors: Use contrasting colors for steps and edges to improve visibility, particularly for those with visual impairments. Light It Up Having proper lighting is also crucial to avoid injury and make it easy to get to and from your home. Light features should be installed to illuminate any walkway or paths that provide access to your home. You can install a motion light that will kick on once someone approaches the entryway to ensure the door handle and lock is clearly visible at all times. Having a clear pathway is crucial for safe and easy access to your home, but don’t underestimate the power of proper lighting. Here’s how to “light it up” for both practical and aesthetic purposes: Safety First: Brighten the entrance: Use motion-sensor or automatic lights to illuminate the walkway and entryway, especially at night. Consider solar-powered options for an eco-friendly solution. Step it up: Illuminate steps with well-placed lights to prevent tripping hazards. This is especially important for uneven or winding pathways. Clear sightlines: Avoid light spillage onto neighboring properties or creating glare towards oncoming pedestrians. Beyond Safety: Create ambiance: Use warm-toned lights to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere at your entryway. String lights, lanterns, or recessed lighting can add charm and character. Highlight features: Showcase landscaping elements, sculptures, or architectural details with focused spotlights or uplighting. Set the mood: Consider using smart lighting that allows you to adjust brightness and color temperature to create different moods and ambiences for various occasions. Additional Tips: Follow local regulations: Make sure your lighting installation complies with local ordinances regarding light pollution and nighttime illumination. Think long-term: Choose durable and weatherproof fixtures that can withstand the elements. Professional touch: For complex installations or extensive lighting systems, consider consulting a professional electrician or landscape lighting designer. By prioritizing safety and incorporating creative elements, you can transform your pathway into a well-lit, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing extension of your home. Low Riser, Long-Tread Steps If you or a family member relies on a walker or crutch, then drastic improvements like installing a ramp might not be necessary. Instead, having low rising steps with long treads can help. These steps provide enough room to accommodate the size of a walker or similar equipment and don’t require taking such a big step up or down. This is a good option when a ramp is impractical but your current steps are too steep and cumbersome. Traditional steps can be daunting for individuals with mobility challenges, but fear not! There’s a game-changer in the game: Low-riser, long-tread steps. Here’s the lowdown on these accessibility heroes: What are they? Imagine your usual stairs, but with wider treads and shorter risers, creating a gentle incline rather than a steep climb. This design offers: Reduced effort: Smaller riser heights require less leg lift, making navigation easier for those with limited mobility. Increased stability: Wider treads provide more platform, improving balance and confidence during each step. Reduced fall risk: This combination minimizes the risk of tripping or losing balance compared to standard stairs. Who benefits? These steps are ideal for: Individuals with mobility limitations due to age, disability, or injury. People who use walkers, canes, or wheelchairs (with assistance). Families with young children or elderly members for improved accessibility. Design considerations: Riser height: Typically between 4-6 inches, ensuring comfortable step-over for most users. Tread depth: Generally double the riser height for adequate foot placement. Handrails: Essential on both sides for added support and balance. Landing platforms: Consider incorporating level landings at intervals for a safe resting point. Bonus features: Non-slip surfaces: Opt for textured or traction-enhancing materials to prevent slips and falls. Contrasting colors: Use contrasting colors for steps and edges to improve visibility, especially for those with visual impairments. Lighting: Ensure proper illumination of the steps for safe use during low-light conditions. Ramps and Vertical Porch Lifts If you do require accessibility for a wheelchair, scooter or a similar device then a ramp or vertical porch lift can be necessary. Ramps can be customized to your home and entryway, plus, you can have a “suitcase” ramp installed, which can fold up and be carried by handles. Porch lifts can bypass the hassle altogether by carrying a person on their device to the

Designing an Office Space That Works

September 11, 2017 No Comments

Today, we’re seeing the traditional office concept give way to layouts and designs that reinforce and reflect core values of your business and get the most out of the space you have. But what might work for one space might not for another. So how do you design an office space that works for your business in your home? Read on to learn more about some key elements to consider. Available Space One of the biggest challenges when it comes to office space design is how to get the most out of the space you have. When considering how to utilize the space available, keep in mind privacy, sound, and work flow needs. For instance, creating an open design in any space can be effective when your company works in teams and meetings will take place there. On the other hand, if you work with clients on the phone or through video conferencing, a closed design room is better where you can get the privacy you need. Windows and Lighting This is a very important factor of any design – especially workplace environments. Lighting – both natural and artificial – can have a major impact on the wellness and productivity as many studies have shown. Maximizing natural light as much as possible and illuminating darkened areas with full-spectrum bulbs that simulate daylight can help. Functional Meeting Rooms Of course, every office needs an area to facilitate face-to-face meetings. Consider the size of your team in relation to the table, seating and overall room. Also, consider if you want to host clients in this space, training sessions, or even events. Adjustments and alterations should be made if a space is confined and tight. Flexible Storage Spaces When space is an issue if you don’t have a good storage layout you can end up working in a chaotic mess. Creative storage can help you get the most out of your office space and keep you organized and looking professional. Try wall storage, display shelves, and vertical storage. If you are using an old bedroom space for your office consider turning the closet into a shelving system to optimize space. Designing an office space doesn’t have to be challenging, there are so many ways you can achieve an engaging work environment while optimizing on space. When designing an office space that works for your business need, talk to RenosGroup.ca. As a leading home renovation company in Ottawa, we can help you achieve the design you want with the space you have. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today

6 Bathroom Design Trends That Have People Talking

September 4, 2017 No Comments

Considering how often the bathroom gets used each day, you want it to look good. And having old and out-dated fixtures can be uninspiring and down right depressing to look at. If you’re sick of your dated bathroom and ready to make some changes, take note of these six bathroom design trends that have people talking! French Door Shower We all love the look of French doors – they’re delicate, sleek and classy – so why not incorporate them into your shower design? The combination of those windowed frames and glass really heighten the chicness in any setting. It creates a great statement piece while still serving the same purpose by keeping water contained. So you can say good-bye to that old shower curtain and hello to doors you can stare at all day! Round Vanity Mirrors Adding a round vanity to your bathroom and ditching the old rectangular look is a quick and inexpensive way to change up the décor and boost the appeal of your bathroom space. Vessel Sink In case you haven’t noticed, vessel sinks are one of the main bathroom design features that homeowners can’t get enough of today. It’s eye-catching and modern with a distinct touch of old-world charm. It’s the perfect addition that provides that modern and slightly vintage flare. In-Shower Plants Ever think about hanging a plant of two in the shower? Aside from it being a convenient place to water, hanging plants adds a natural punch of colour, while also purifying the air and encouraging those blissful relaxation vibes when you’re soaking in the tub. Playful Tile More homeowners are getting creative with their bathroom tiles. Today you’ll find everything from black and white retro tile decking the floors, to playful, colourful designs like vintage blue countertops. This is a popular way to add some flare and colour to your bathroom design that’s different, bold and beautiful. Rustic Vintage Vanities The interior design world just can’t get enough of rustic vintage wood. And now, you can find it creeping into bathroom designs as well. We can’t get enough of this look – slightly refurbished rustic vanities that show that stressed wood, with classic drawer handles to finish them off perfectly. Together with a vessel sink and vintage faucets, you’ll be finding a lot more reasons to hang out in your bathroom. If you’re tired of staring at your dated bathroom design several times a day, then it’s time for an upgrade. Use these stunning bathroom design trends to help get you inspired, and when you’re ready to get started, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to help make your vision a reality.

Sink or Swim: New Life for Your Kitchen Sink After the Reno

August 28, 2017 No Comments

Taking on a kitchen reno and wondering what to do with your old sink? Upgrading and remodelling doesn’t necessarily mean those old fixtures should be tossed away. You can consider placing it online to sell or even donating it to be reused for someone else to enjoy. If there’s still life left in your old sink, here are some options for you to consider for your kitchen sink after the reno. Repurpose the Sink When you’re in the full throttle of a renovation project, there’s often little time to really think about how to repurpose old fixtures like the sink. But once the dust has settled, you can begin to brainstorm how you can reuse them. Whether it’s your laundry room, the bathroom, or even outside, consider all of your options for where that sink might come in handy around your home. Sell Your Sink to Budget-Friendly Homeowners Selling your sink is another viable option to consider. Many homeowners these days place any and everything up for sale on online sites such as Craigslist or even in local online groups for their individual neighbourhoods. You can gain a little extra cash while giving some budget-friendly homeowners a great deal. Donate Your Sink We all know that owning a home these days often comes with a tighter budget. So why not help out some fellow homeowners who can’t afford to stretch out their budget by donating your old kitchen sink? You can ask around through family and friends first to see if anyone is in need. Failing that, there are plenty of options, such as Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, or any other suitable charity that you prefer. If you’re unsure which ones will take the sink, you can simply call them up and ask. You’d be surprised just what type of items charities are glad to accept. Call Up a Scrap Metal Collector to Recycle It Finally, if you found little success in repurposing, selling or donating, then recycling it is a final option that helps you get it out of the house and keeps it out of a landfill site. There are many eager scrap metal collectors that are more than willing to collect your old steel sink. So when you’re unsure about what to do with your old kitchen sink after a reno, don’t throw it away for garbage. Consider each of these options that can allow it to be put to good use instead. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Renovations That Maintaining Seniors Independence

Senior Accessibility: A Guide to the Ontario Renovates Program

August 21, 2017 No Comments

Is your home in need of some repairs or modifications for improved accessibility? Well if you’re a senior or a person with disabilities living in Ontario, you could be eligible for funding offered by Ottawa’s Housing Services branch. Here is a guide to the Ontario Renovates Program to help you learn how you could potentially have your home repairs covered. What is the Ontario Renovates Program? This program was created under the City Housing Services branch to provide limited funding to low-income seniors and persons with disabilities to assist with home repairs. What Type of Repairs Does This Include? The Ontario Renovates Program only provides funding for repairs and modifications that are necessary for improving accessibility for seniors and persons with disabilities who are living within their own home. This aims to provide necessary support to assist with independent living. What are the Eligibility Requirements? To be eligible to receive funding through this program, low-income seniors must be 65 years of age or older. It also pertains to persons with disabilities, along with families who have a member of their home who meets the criteria of being 65 or older, and or with a disability of some sort. There is a maximum annual gross annual income which varies depending on the number of residents. For instance a single-person household may have a maximum gross annual income of $36,075, while a two-person household may have a combined gross annual income up to $44,160 to qualify for the program. What are the Eligibility Requirements of the Property? To be eligible for the program, your property must be your sole and primary residence located in the City of Ottawa. It must also be valued at or under $376,300 as determined by the province and verified by the owner’s most recent property tax assessment. What Type of Repairs Can Be Included? The purpose of this program is to provide funding to assist in making the home a safer place for seniors and persons with disabilities to live independently. Some of the potential repairs that are allowed include: Doors and windows Repairs to foundation, roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings Plumbing, septic, electrical, and heating systems Fire safety features Installing handrails and ramps Chair and bathlifts Height-adjusted countertops There are many other items that qualify under the program. You can check out more details here. What About Funding? Funding is delivered in the form of a forgivable loan. The funding may also be provided in the form of a grant for eligible applicants up to a maximum amount of $18,500. There are certain stipulations when it comes to the details of the scope of funding, which can also be found here. How to Apply for the Ontario Renovates Program To apply for the funding program, head to the City of Ottawa website to access instructions, details, a checklist and the application form. The duration of the program runs until March 31st, 2018 or until the funds have been fully spent. So if you think you qualify for the Ontario Renovates Program, be sure to check out their website for all of the details so you can apply before it’s too late. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2018, or until allocated funds run out. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Adding a Half Bath to Your Home

August 14, 2017 No Comments

Planning to add a half bath to your home? It’s an excellent way to increase the value of your home and to add more convenience for your family and guests. If you’re ready to get started, here’s everything you need to consider when adding the perfect half bath to your home. Options There are lots of potential areas in your home that can make for a perfect half bath. If you have a stairway with unused space underneath, a large garage, or spare closet space, these areas can make for good potential locations. Space Once you have some potential options in mind, consider how much space you need. When adding a half bath, it doesn’t need to be large, just enough space for a toilet, sink, mirror, and vanity. You also want to make sure people can move around in the area without feeling claustrophobic, and a smart design can make this happen. Plumbing For your half bath to work you need it to be close enough to plumbing connections that are already in place. Otherwise, you will be spending money expanding your indoor plumbing and pipes, costing you more than you might have bargained for. An ideal plumbing scenario is run piping from the nearby laundry room or kitchen. Ventilation You may also require ventilation in your half bath to control odours, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of growing mildew or mold. Consider adding a window or an exhaust fan to the space. You don’t have to get fancy, but there are lots of different designs when it comes to fans, so shop around for the best prices. Lighting Lighting is of course, a necessity but can also be a great way to add some style and design touches to the room. You can add dimmer switches, elegant lighting fixtures, or battery-operated candles to jazz up the space. Materials The half bath is often the only room guests see besides your entertaining spaces. So why not decorate to impress? Skip the basics and add marble sinks, potted plants, wood accents, and other luxury décor items. Sound Insulation Adding sound insulation is a must when it comes to half baths that are located near living rooms spaces or areas where people gather. So, during the installation project, add some sound absorbing materials to the walls, pipes, and drains. A half bath can be an easy project if you have the right plan and contractor for the job. Before you start your new project, talk to RenosGroup.ca – we can help you with everything you need to get the perfect half bath for your budget and home design. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Hottest Basement Trends

August 7, 2017 No Comments

Basement renos and remodelling have grown in popularity over the past few years as homeowners become more inclined to make use of that entire square footage. Whether it’s an entertainment hub for the family, a place for the kids to hang out, or your own special spot to have the friends over for cocktails, here are some of 2017’s hottest basement renovation trends that are leading the way this year. Open Concept Think the open concept has passed? Think again! When it comes to basement floor plans, the open concept is a keeper. Tearing down those dividing walls and taking advantage of the expansive space is not only beneficial from a design standpoint, but also for promoting air flow and allowing as much natural light to filter in from the windows. An Integral Part of the Home In the past, the basement was often a forgotten space. It was commonly used for storage, setting up an extra spot for extended family to stay during the holidays, or an unfinished den where your teenage kids would retreat to with their friends in tow. Well, not anymore. Now, we’re seeing an increasing trend where homeowners are honing in on that once forgotten space. It’s now being transformed into an integral part of the home and an extension of the upstairs living space. So naturally, you will find just as much attention to detail, design, and décor throughout the basement layout as you would in the main living room. Home Theatre & Media Room Some homeowners are even taking full advantage of the basement space by cranking up the luxury factor and adding in elements they can really indulge in like an enclosed home theatre and a media room. This is where the serious media enthusiast can get pampered. The Basement Bar & Sports Center Imagine having your own personal sports bar, right in your own home! If you’re bored with the idea of creating another bedroom or zone for the kids, why not make it your own space to kick back and relax with your friends while you take in all the sports action? You can create the ultimate sports lounge with a customized bar, paired with some exceptionally comfy seating, a widescreen to blow your mind, and even a few entertainment pieces like a pool table. If you can dream it, you can create it – and that goes for your basement. If you’re bored with the idea of wasting it on storage or another bedroom that you simply don’t need, claim that space and transform it into something you truly want. When you’re ready, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 RenosGroup.ca to help keep up to date with the hottest basement trends

Does Your Laundry Room Need a Makeover?

July 24, 2017 No Comments

Is your laundry room driving you a little bit crazy? Is the room cluttered and disorganized so much that your clothes end up piled up without room to organize? If this sounds like your struggles, maybe it’s time for a laundry room makeover. Here we provide some secrets on how you can better utilize your laundry room space and make the most of your weekly cleaning. New Efficient Machines If your clothes are coming out worse than when they went in, it’s probably time to upgrade your machines. Washing machines take a lot of abuse over the years, and you should consider replacing them every five or so years depending on the make. If you want to utilize your laundry room space, try purchasing a stacking dryer and washer. With the savings in energy usage, they’ll pay for themselves over the years! Storage Space For better space utilization, you should try installing more storage units. Consider implementing a pull-out hamper, narrow sliding cart, or closet organizer. Rigging your laundry room with additional storage can really help to free up more needed space and keep your belongings organized. Take it to the next level with custom storage perfectly fitted to the space by your general contractor. Laundry Sink Not everything should go into the washer. That’s why having a laundry room sink is handy for hand-washing any delicates or hard-to-clean textures. It’s also convenient when you need to immediately rinse off stains or soak items. This can also free up the kitchen or bathroom sink when you need to hand-wash any items. Folding Station When it comes to organizing laundry, nothing is handier than a having a folding station that you can take advantage of when your clothes are fresh out of the dryer. If you’re short on space, you can add a fold-down table to the back of the door. You can also utilize this area for ironing and stacking clothes once dried. Natural Light You should also consider adding more natural light if possible. Installing a window or sunroof can really help with the quality of your washing – say goodbye to mixing up colours in the dark. But if your house won’t permit a build-out, you can always purchase new and brighter lighting and bulbs for the room. Your laundry room is one of the most essential rooms in your home. So why not make it both functional and easy to navigate? By following these tips, you can easily save plenty of space and upgrade the features for more efficient use. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

5 Reasons to Buy a Fixer-Upper

July 17, 2017 No Comments

Buying a fixer-upper has many advantages for purchasers. And it doesn’t matter how well or poorly the market is performing, you can buy a fixer-upper at any time. With a fixer-upper, you can make a decent profit off the purchase price if you put some quality work into it. But that isn’t the only reason to buy a home with upside potential. Here we outline some reasons to buy a fixer upper. Renovate Key Rooms Maybe it’s an older design that hasn’t been updated in decades, or the previous owners started but didn’t have the money to finish the upgrades. Whatever the condition, a fixer-upper is the perfect purchase for those who love to renovate and create. By focusing on the key rooms of the home, like the living room, kitchen and master bedroom, you can flip the house from drab to fab in no time. Make It Your Own Sure, you can buy a brand-new home with all the latest designs, appliances, and fixtures. But you probably won’t have any money left over to truly make it your own. With a fixer-upper, you can renovate the home to suit your needs and make it the dream house you’ve always wanted. Save Money A house with some imperfections will sell for a lower price than a newer build or upgraded property. If you aren’t too fussy about living with some wear and tear initially, you can save a lot of money. Especially if you have a particular neighbourhood in mind that is out of your price range. Going with a fixer-upper can help you get a place in the area you prefer for less than what you would normally pay. Make Profits Fixer-uppers usually come at a bargain price. And when you take advantage of buying at a low rate, it can help you rake in the profits when it comes to putting it back on the market. You don’t even have to renovate if you don’t want to, you can simply wait for market conditions to improve and sell it at a profit. Add a Home Addition With all the money you can save from buying a fixer-upper, you could put on a whole new addition on your home. And the options are endless to what you can create – a second floor, a sunroom, a double car garage – if you can dream it, you can build it. There are so many advantages when you buy a home that you can upgrade. Yet, fixer-uppers may not be for everyone, but if you’re someone who likes to design, renovate, and build, then it’s the best way to go. For more reasons to buy a fixer upper don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

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