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Planning a Stunning, Affordable Kitchen Remodel

Caring for Your Granite Countertops

May 20, 2015 No Comments

If you’ve invested in gorgeous natural granite countertops as the centerpiece of your kitchen renovation, you deserve to have your investment stand the test of time. Follow these steps from our kitchen renovation company to keep your granite looking beautiful as the years pass: Seal of Approval Part of caring for your granite countertops is reseal your countertop on a regular basis. If you only use your kitchen sparingly, reseal about once every two years. If you use your counters daily, reseal once per year. And if you practically run a bakery/catering service out of your kitchen, reseal every six months. Be Gentle Harsh products, abrasive scrubbing sponges, and acidic cleaners can weaken the seal on your countertops. Don’t use bleach, ammonia, vinegar, citrus cleansers, or Windex. As the seal begins to breakdown, liquid can start to seep into the stone and cause unsightly stains. So keep a vigilant cleaning schedule, but don’t use harsh products and cleaners. Act Quickly If you notice a spill on your granite countertops, wipe it up quickly. Fast action is your best protection. Even with a strong seal, granite is still a porous stone, so don’t give liquids a chance to seep through. Disinfecting Granite countertops are not likely to play host to bacteria, but you should still be safe and sanitize your countertops daily. All you really need to use is hot water and dish soap with a soft microfibre cloth. You can also spray a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol, let it sit, and then wipe it off. It only takes a few minutes, but it could save your granite countertops. Cleaning Your Granite Countertops Start by wetting a dishcloth with warm water and dish soap. Wipe down your countertops with the dish soap, making sure to sop up all liquids and wipe up any crumbs. Use a soft cloth or towel to dry your granite countertops. This will prevent any streaking, making sure your countertops look stunning from any angle. Disinfect your countertops with a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away with a clean cloth. It’s that simple! If you put in the effort to keep your countertops clean on a daily basis and make sure to reseal the granite as needed, they’ll stay in mint condition for years and years. Let your granite countertops be the centerpiece of your kitchen renovation well into the future thanks to proper care and maintenance. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Why You Should Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Contractors

May 12, 2015 No Comments

Deciding to undergo a home renovation is an exciting proposition, but it comes with a lot of stress. Between a large financial outlay and the hassle of having your home turned into a work zone, often the only thing keeping homeowners happy is the thought that a beautifully completed renovation is around the corner. When you enlist the services of a contractor who promises a lot but delivers very little, it can be crushing. Here are some vital reasons to avoid a “too good to be true” contractor: Rushed Job When you hire a contractor whose rates and timeline seem too good to be true, there’s probably a reason. If they offer an unrealistic timeline, it doesn’t mean you’ll get an amazing bathroom in a short period of time. Instead, it means you’ll get a rushed job without attention to detail. This might mean sloppy finishes, but it might also mean extremely important behind-the-scenes aspects (like thorough waterproofing behind shower tiles) are ignored. This could lead to costly complications down the road. When you work with a professional bathroom renovator, we set realistic timelines that ensure your project is done right the first time. Inexperience If you find a contractor who is offering cut-rates, it may be because they don’t have the experience and skills to justify professional pricing. The old adage that “you get what you pay for” certainly applies to bathroom renovations. If you choose a contractor whose prices can’t be beaten, it might be for a good reason. Ballooning Costs If a “too good to be true” contractor makes an appealing estimate over the phone without even seeing your bathroom in person, expect to see ballooning costs. How can they possibly know how much your renovation will cost without seeing it in person? Instead, choose a professional bathroom renovator that offers free in-home consultations. This way, you’ll be given a more reliable cost estimate and won’t get a big surprise when your bathroom is half-finished, and the money’s gone. Higher Risk Can you really trust a jack-of-all-trades to perform specialized work like electrical or plumbing? The consequences with these aspects run far beyond paint drips and crooked mirrors. A shoddy contractor might mess with your electrical or make a plumbing flaw that leads to leaks, water damage, and mould. Instead, trust a professional bathroom renovator who has a team of specialized workers to do the job safely. Avoid “too good to be true” contractors, trust the services of a professional bathroom renovator like RenosGroup. We have a proven track record of making homeowners happy with successfully completed and stunningly executed projects. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Planning a Stunning, Affordable Kitchen Remodel

May 8, 2015 No Comments

If you have been putting off your dream kitchen remodel because you think you can’t afford it, think again. You can easily plan a stunning yet affordable kitchen remodel with these handy tips from the pros: Paint It is not always necessary to make major changes to change the look of a room and that includes the kitchen. Paint can make a positive change to the look of your kitchen by cleaning and refreshing your walls and adding an affordable splash of colour for your backsplash. Lighting Adding new touches to your kitchen such as lighting can help to modernize a space instantly. Lighting in a kitchen can also make it easier to work. Pendant lighting hung over an island adds sparkle and interesting design detail, while a chandelier above a table can add elegance and sophistication. Cabinet Refacing The most affordable cabinet refacing is a lick of paint. However you can also have completely new cabinet doors and trim without the costly removal and installation associated with a complete gutting. Refacing allows you to choose new cabinet doors and drawers and use the existing bases and wall mounts. Original Fixtures and Appliances You can also save a lot of money by maintaining as many of the original fixtures and appliances as possible. If they do not look too bad and the electrical and plumbing is in good shape this will save thousands of dollars as well as fuss and mess. As long as appliances are running and energy efficient you can save up and replace them when your budget allows. Sinks just need a good polish to shine again. Flooring If your flooring is not in bad shape you can keep it in place as well. There are also many laminate tile and wood flooring products that are available at a fraction of the cost of real hardwood, ceramic or stone. Counters Of course we all want the glamour and sparkle of granite, but this is a huge expense during a kitchen remodel. Instead opt for a modern laminate that will give you a new stone look without the hefty price tag. You can always save up and replace them at a later date. Your kitchen remodel doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using these affordable tips will allow you to have a stunning kitchen you will enjoy for years to come without the high price tag. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

5 Signs your Home Might Need a Mobility Makeover

May 1, 2015 No Comments

Whether you have someone in your home with mobility issues or are trying to live in your home well into your retirement, there are a number of signs that indicate you might need a mobility makeover. A mobility renovation can assist in handling mobility issues including: Poor Lighting From a safety standpoint, poor lighting is not a good idea in any home. If your home has dark halls and staircases, it can be very easy for someone to trip and fall. Having new lighting installed such as pot lights will greatly improve visibility in key areas of the home to help avoid accidents. Having light switches that are easy to reach for those with mobility issues is also very important. Narrow Doorways People in wheelchairs or who use walkers need a wider berth to manoeuvre comfortably. By adding wider doorways throughout the home, people with mobility issues will be able to get from room to room without issues. Stairs Stairs both inside and outside the home prove to be a major barrier for those with mobility issues. Having ramps to enter your home as well as specialty lifts will allow those with mobility issues to remain more independent and have full access both inside and outside the home. Counters The level of counters in the kitchen can also prove a problem for those in a wheelchair. Not only can high counters be inconvenient, they can be quite dangerous when knives and hot pots and pans are involved. Adjusting counters or adding a special spot where people can sit and do prep work such as chopping will make it easier for them to remain independent. Bathroom Safety Safety in the bathroom is always a concern for anyone with mobility issues. Having handle bars, proper toilet seats and room to move around in a wheelchair or with a walker is a must if you want to make mobility possible. Adjustments must also be made to tubs and shower stalls to make them level for easier access. Even for those without mobility issues, the bathroom has plenty of slippery surfaces making it dangerous for slips and falls. Having safe surfaces that provide more traction will help avoid injury. If your home has any of these issues then you should consider having a consultation for a mobility renovation. You will learn what changes can be made to make your home both safer and more comfortable as well as to help people maintain their independence. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Preparing your Home for Retirement Years

April 24, 2015 No Comments

More and more people are choosing to continue living in their own homes during their retirement years. They love remaining independent, as well as enjoying more financial freedom in a rent and mortgage-free home. If you are looking forward to enjoying your retirement years in the comfort of your own home, you can start preparing your home for retirement years Bathroom Comfort The bathroom can become difficult to navigate as you get older. You can make a number of simple adjustments to help make your bathroom feel safer. First, you can look for flooring that is not as slick and that provides more traction to help avoid slips and falls. Your shower or tub area can also be made safer by making it a walk in without any lips or steps when getting in and out. You can also add bars to make it easier to get in and out of the tub as well as for sitting on the toilet. These are very affordable changes that will make you feel more secure in your home. Tiresome Stairs Many seniors will find going up and down stairs becomes more challenging as they get older. There are a number of changes that can be made to make your stairs safer. First, it is important to ensure they are not too slippery. Hardwood treads, for example, can be made a little less dangerous with properly installed carpeting. However, poorly installed carpeting can be just as dangerous as it can lead to tripping and falling. Make sure any stair solutions are installed by a professional contractor to avoid these problems. A chair lift is always a great update. On shorter steps leading to landings, you can add ramps. Poor Lighting It might not seem very important, but when it comes to safe and comfortable living, excellent lighting is a must. You will be very pleased if you have the proper task lighting in rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom. You will also feel safer in poorly lit halls or areas such as the basement. Good lighting will also update your home and give it a more modern look. Adding safety lighting outside is also a good idea so you do not have difficulty unlocking your door at night. It just takes a few simple home renovations to update your home for senior living. You will be safer, more comfortable and able to live independently for years to come. Please don’t wait to give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to get the ball rolling. You can also use this form to request a free in-home consultation and estimate.

5 Risks of DIY Bathroom Renovations

April 16, 2015 No Comments

It is always tempting to test your DIY skills in order to save money for your home renovations. However when it comes to bathroom renovations, there is far more at risk than you might think. Here are five risks of DIY bathroom renovations you will want to avoid: Improper Installation It is easy to think you are using the right technique for installation of materials like tiling and plumbing for pipes and faucets. However, the scary thing about a lot of installation during a bathroom renovation is that it is hidden behind walls and underneath floors. That means you won’t know you have done something wrong until you suddenly have a serious leak. You can also have a slow leak you will never discover which can lead to dangerous mould and mildew that can affect your health. Safe Electrical Most people can handle basic electrical such as replacing a light fixture. However if you are attempting more complicated installation such as a light in your shower stall or even thermal heated flooring, you are putting yourself and family at serious risk of shock. Water and electricity don’t mix and it just takes one faulty wire to cause serious damage to your home or your family members. Unprofessional Finish You might think applying tile is an easy job, but it is very easy to muck it up. You can easily make things look uneven, use improper cutting methods and even miss spots of grout that will not only look awful but also cause issues with water damage. Expense Many homeowners are all about the most expensive materials and the latest looks. However although you think you are saving money doing DIY bathroom renovations you are not getting a discount on materials like a professional contractor. This means you are paying highly marked up pricing for items such as tiling, faucets, and lighting fixtures. Material Use It is also a common mistake to think that any tile or finish can be used in a bathroom renovation. Unfortunately not all tile, flooring and even countertops are designed for bathroom use. You may love the look of a certain tile, but if it becomes very slippery, it’s not the right choice for a bathroom. When it comes to a bathroom renovation, it is really in your best interests to look for help from a professional contractor. They will save you time, money and also the pain of expensive mistakes that can lead to the need for do-overs! To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

How Mobility Renovations Can Help Seniors

April 8, 2015 No Comments

Surveys indicate that the vast majority of seniors wish to remain in their homes. This desire may be hampered by space restrictions, accessibility issues, and safety concerns in many homes. Fortunately, mobility renovations are a great way to allow seniors to maintain their independence and safety while remaining in their beloved homes. Even better, Ontario seniors are eligible to receive up to $1,500 through the Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit. Here are some of the fantastic ways mobility renovations can help seniors: Bathroom Your bathroom is an integral part of your daily hygiene routine. However, traditional bathroom features can be difficult for seniors with mobility issues to use. Slippery floors can put your safety at risk. Mobility renovators can install non-slip flooring and walk-in bathtubs, or shower stalls to protect your safety. Bath seats and benches improve safety; while grab bars in the shower and by the toilet can also help. Hands-free faucets make everything easier for people with mobility limitations. Kitchen Being able to safely make meals is an important part of happy and independent living for seniors. Mobility renovators can improve the accessibility of your kitchen so you can continue to enjoy cooking as the years pass. Existing countertops and cupboards can be lowered to make access easier. As with the bathroom, hands-free taps can be installed. There are also many customizations that can be made to improve accessibility for seniors, like installing touch latches on drawers and cupboards. Staircases Staircases can be quite difficult for seniors with mobility limitations. Mobility renovators can mount safety handrails, improve lighting, or install a mechanical stair lift. It is also possible to widen the stairway and lay down reflective non-slip tape to make it easier to walk up and down the stairs. Exterior Especially in our tough Canadian winters, it can be very difficult for seniors to travel to and from the car to the house. Mobility renovators can make this process less strenuous by installing an exterior wheelchair or walker ramp to facilitate entrance into the house. Doorways can also be widened to make it easier to get inside the house in a wheelchair. Finally, outdoor light fixtures can be improved and locks can be changed to make them easier to use. Home mobility renovations can help seniors live many happy and independent years in their homes without having to move to senior care facilities. If you need some help please don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Risks of a DIY Basement Renovation

April 2, 2015 No Comments

When you’re planning a basement renovation, it can be tempting to save money by doing it yourself. DIY projects can be quite risky, and you may find it much more advisable to trust the experience and workmanship of a qualified renovations company. Here are some of the big risks of a DIY basement renovations: Going Over-Budget When you plan a DIY basement renovation, it can be easy to underestimate your budget. This may be caused by hopeful thinking – if you only budget a certain amount, this must be what it costs. It may also be caused by a lack of knowledge. For example, you might budget for the cost of new tiles in a basement bathroom, but not for the backer board, mortar, and grout. Furthermore, your inexperience can lead to higher material costs if you botch installation. Renovation companies have the knowledge to properly estimate the cost of materials and keep the project on budget by doing it right the first time. Spiraling Timeline When you start a DIY basement renovation, it can be easy to misjudge and imagine that the project will be complete in a matter of weekends. Even with the best of intentions, setbacks or poor estimations of work time can stall your project. DIY basement renovations can end up taking months, if they even get completed at all. Renovation companies follow a strict process and make sure that the timeline for completion is met as closely as possible. You want a dream renovation, not a permanent work site in your basement. Cutting Corners When you’re trying a DIY project, it can be tempting to skip steps to save time and get closer to the finished project. However, it is very important to follow the proper process. Skipping vital steps like sanding floors or cleaning walls before painting can end up turning into big, ugly problems down the road. Measure Twice… Sloppy work leads to sloppy results and can end up costing you a lot of money in the long run if you have to restock on supplies and materials. Errors of millimetres can actually derail your entire basement renovation. Contractors are attentive and diligent and will make sure everything is properly measured. Unskilled Labour There are amazing resources out there which make DIY projects seem like a breeze. However, watching a few videos or reading DIY manuals is not the same as having practical experience and high-quality workmanship. Don’t try to be a jack-of-all-trades. Renovation companies have the required skills to complete your basement renovation right. Avoid the risks of a DIY basement renovation by trusting renovation companies to do the job right. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today for more details!

How to Plan Mobility Renovation - Mobility Renovations in Ottawa

How to Plan Mobility Renovations

March 27, 2015 No Comments

How to Plan Mobility Renovations? Some home designs can be quite unfriendly for your loved ones with mobility limitations. Staircases, high countertops, slippery bathroom floors and poor lighting can hamper the independence of your loved ones. Thankfully, many of these issues can be solved through mobility renovations. Mobility renovations can significantly enhance accessibility and independence, empowering you or your loved ones to navigate daily routines with ease and safety. Whether you’re anticipating future needs or tackling current limitations, meticulous planning is crucial for a successful outcome. Follow these steps to plan, design, and execute successful mobility renovations: Determine the Needs of Your Loved One Everyone has different challenges and needs that can be aided or solved thanks to mobility renovations. Perhaps your loved one is a senior who simply needs their kitchen to be a bit more accessible. Maybe your loved one uses a wheelchair and needs doorways and staircases to be altered. Once you have taken stock of your loved one’s mobility needs, it becomes easier to determine what changes should be made to make their home safer and more accessible. Remember: Involve your loved one in every step of the process. Their input and preferences are crucial. Prioritize safety and functionality. Aim for solutions that promote independence and minimize risk of falls or injury. Start small and scale up as needed. You don’t have to renovate everything at once. Begin with the most pressing needs and expand as necessary. By carefully assessing your loved one’s needs and planning renovations accordingly, you can create a home that fosters independence, dignity, and safety for everyone. This investment in their well-being will bring immense value and peace of mind to both of you. Consider Future Needs Our needs can change as we age, sometimes quite dramatically. If you’re planning mobility renovations, an important consideration is to consider future needs in addition to current ones. Your loved one may currently be able to walk, but may need a wheelchair in two or three years’ time. While current space may be adequate, a wheelchair may require wider doorways and more ample turning space. If your loved one plans to remain in the home for a considerable period going forward, it is advisable to account for potential changes in mobility. 1. Progressive Conditions: If your loved one has a progressive condition like arthritis or Parkinson’s, anticipate gradual changes in mobility. Opt for modular or adaptable solutions. For example, choose doorways with removable side panels to widen them later, or install countertops with adjustable heights. 2. Multi-functionality: Think beyond “accessibility features” and embrace flexible design. For instance, a wider doorway wouldn’t just benefit wheelchair users, but also make carrying furniture or bulky items easier for everyone. 3. Universal Design Principles: Incorporate elements that cater to a wide range of abilities, not just your loved one’s current needs. These include lever door handles, accessible sinks, and step-free entry points. This inclusive design benefits everyone and adds long-term value to your home. 4. Future Medical Equipment: Consider potential needs for specialized equipment like hospital beds, hoists, or oxygen tanks. Ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate them, and leave space for maneuvering within the room. 5. Age-friendly Lighting: As vision can deteriorate with age, install brighter lighting with dimmer switches to adjust for changing needs. 6. Technology Integration: Smart home features like voice-controlled lighting, thermostats, and appliances can significantly improve independence and ease of living as mobility declines. Remember: Flexibility is key. By planning for potential changes, you create a resilient and adaptable home that supports your loved one’s comfort and independence, now and in the future. This not only fosters well-being but also increases the home’s overall value and marketability. Schedule an In-Home Consultation Do not use a mobility renovation company that gives you an estimate over the phone or by email without having met you or having seen your home in person. An in-home consultation is very important to accurately assess the mobility and accessibility limitations of your home and to give you a proper quote. Alleviate the stress of your loved ones and make sure everything is done right the first time by scheduling an in-home consultation. Unique Homes: Generic estimates miss your home’s nuances. Professionals need to see the space to assess challenges, measure accurately, and consider layouts. Tailored Solutions: Without seeing your home, companies can’t personalize solutions for your loved one’s needs and preferences. In-home consultations lead to customized recommendations for optimal functionality and comfort. Accurate Costs: Phone estimates can be inaccurate, leading to budget overruns or inadequate solutions. In-home consultations ensure the quote reflects the project’s complexity, avoiding surprises. Build Trust: Meeting professionals face-to-face allows you to ask questions, gauge expertise, and build trust. This is crucial for informed decisions and peace of mind throughout the process. Uncover Hidden Issues: In-person assessments can reveal unforeseen structural, electrical, or plumbing issues missed by phone estimates. Early detection saves time and money down the line. In-home consultations are an investment in peace of mind. They ensure accurate quotes, tailored solutions, and the confidence that your loved one’s needs are met effectively. Don’t settle for generic quotes – schedule an in-home consultation for a successful mobility renovation from the start! Ask Others You likely know many people who have had their houses improved thanks to mobility renovations. If you don’t, you can ask around on the internet, through friends, or through local connections. They can advise you about the benefits of mobility renovations and perhaps even offer advice on some things you had not considered – like opting for a stove with front controls instead of knobs at the back that are harder to reach. Seek diverse perspectives: Don’t limit yourself to one source. Gather information from a variety of individuals and professionals to gain well-rounded insights. Ask specific questions: Tailor your questions to your specific needs and concerns. This will help you get targeted and relevant advice. Be mindful of online advice: While online resources can be valuable, remember to verify information with qualified professionals before making any decisions. By leveraging the wisdom of others, you can gain valuable inspiration, practical tips, and a deeper understanding of what to expect. This collaborative approach will ultimately lead to a more

Creating Amazing Kids Play Area in Basement

Creating an Amazing Kids Play Area in Basement

March 20, 2015 No Comments

If you have kids, you’ve probably noticed that their toys and art projects start to take over all of your living space. If it has gotten to the point where you can hardly move without stepping on a Lego piece, it may be time to find a solution. A fun and inviting kids play area in the basement is the perfect way to keep toys out of your living room…and dining room, and office, and kitchen, and…When your kids have a contained area to let their imaginations run wild, with plenty of activity stations to keep them busy, you’re much more likely to have an organized upstairs living space. Here are some tips for creating an amazing kids play area in the basement: Floor Space Sometimes kids don’t even need fancy layouts or state-of-the-art designs. Ottawa basement contractors can lay down soft carpet or interlocking foam tiles in your basement. Your kids will have a blast building a giant fairy tale village or putting together a massive train track set. Art & Creativity A kids area in the basement is the perfect place to set up arts and crafts stations. Start by painting one wall with chalkboard paint, which your kids can draw on and just as easily erase. Another wall can be magnetic or made of bulletin board material for pinning up drawings and paintings. Set up an easel station in one corner and a reading nook in another. Entertainment Centre If your kids like to watch movies and television, then you can set up a pint-sized movie room for their viewing pleasure. Kids will have a grand old time watching Frozen on a mounted projector while they sit in comfy mini beanbag chairs. Mount an iPhone dock in easy reaching distance for the kids so they can put on a playlist and dance their little hearts out in their newly renovated basement. Storage When the kids are zonked out from playing, it comes time to keep things organized. Ottawa basement contractors can design and construct beautiful custom built-in storage with a place for every single toy, book, and arts & craft item. You can include every storage component imaginable, from cubbies and bookcases to shelving and media consoles to keep your brand new kids play area organized and clean. With these essential elements, you’ll have everything you need for creating an amazing kids play area in the basement. If you need help for this project please don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

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