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Home Renovations During Covid19

Home Renovation During Covid 19

Due to Covid-19, the world has come to a standstill. Plans which people had been waiting to execute for months had fallen apart. This crisis has undoubtedly effected home renovation projects and have abruptly paused the progress in the past. Although some countries have given the green signal for construction work, it is of utmost importance that you only get the job done by a team who understands the severity of the situation. This is why RenosGroup is here to provide you with a home renovation during Covid-19 in Ottawa. We have been in the home renovations and remodeling industry for years. Considering how finding a reliable general contractor has become harder than ever, we are here to satisfy all your home renovation requirements and execute your plans to perfection. It is easy to go wrong with home renovations by picking the wrong contractors. Your months or even years of planning can go down the drain with a single bad decision. Moreover, you would have to bear the financial loss as well. This is why let’s see how you can make your renovation project a success. Things to Consider When Searching for a Home Renovation Contractor 1)  Finding Someone Trustable This should go without saying that if you are looking to get home renovation during Covid-19, then it should be done by someone trustable. Far too many people make the mistake of choosing the wrong contractor, and in return, their investment is wasted. Before you trust a contractor, always make sure that you evaluate their previous track record. The kind of services they offer and how open they are to communication. Renovation work can go on for days, weeks, or even months. So, rather than trusting someone who does not even come close to meeting your expectations, it is better to be more careful with your decision from the start. 2)  Implementation of SOPs There is nothing more important than your health. This is why SOPs are one thing you should never compromise upon. If you are getting a home renovation during Covid-19, your top priority should be to hire contractors who strictly follow and work according to the SOPs. Professional contractors realize the importance of implementing SOPs. RenosGroup is dedicated to not only transform your house but also prioritize the safety of you and your loved ones. 3)  Know your Needs This is a problem that people often face during renovations. Regardless of how professional your contractor is, if you are not sure about what you are looking for, you will ultimately be disappointed by the end-results. You must at least have a vague picture in your mind of what you expect to decide on the scope of work. We are not saying that you should come up with a full blueprint. However, giving the contractors a direction to work towards alone can significantly affect the outcome and make it turn out the way you want it to. 4)  Prioritize Quality over Price One common mistake that people make when they are planning to get their house renovated is that they get too caught up in price. While it is true that everyone would want their home remodeling project to be done in the lowest budget possible, it still should not be your only priority. It often happens that when you prioritize price too much, you end up losing sight of what truly matters the most. Sure, you will be able to save a couple hundred or thousand dollars, but in the long run, it is certainly not going to be worth it. Normally, contractors who offer their services at an incredibly low price, often either lack the experience or they cut costs somewhere else. When you are getting your house remodeled or renovated, you want to at least go for a 5-year solution if not more. Therefore, if the price seems too good to be true, then you might have to pause for a moment and re-evaluate your decision. 5)  Expand your Search The general rule before you get started with any renovation work is to know the market. If you directly proceed with the decision to get your house renovated, the chances are that you may miss out on much better options. Every contractor will use different building materials and have their own unique approach while working on a project. Expand your search to first understand which approach suits you the most and also get an estimate of the renovation costs. Why Choose RenosGroup? You can find numerous home renovators in Ottawa. However, what makes us truly stand-out is our attention to detail. Our main aim is to exceed industry standards, and that is what helps us stay ahead of the competition. Here’s the process we follow for all of our home improvements/remodeling jobs: Design: Our aim at RenosGroup is to help homeowners achieve their dreams. Most of the time homeowners have a vague picture in their mind on what they are expecting in terms of design. Our goal is to turn that abstract idea into a reality and provide you with satisfactory end-results. Plan: The most important aspect of any renovation project is planning. What truly makes us excel in what we do is that we lay out all the groundwork for the project. Having a direction is essential before you begin with any construction or remodeling job. And this is exactly what we always prioritize. Execute: Once the groundwork is laid out, executing it to perfection is also an equally important step. However, you do not have to worry. We are going to make sure you are involved throughout the process while we complete the job professionally and efficiently. End Result: There is no bigger dream of our team at RenosGroup than to transform the house of homeowners according to their expectations. Our main priority is to provide you with complete satisfaction, and until we have not achieved that, our job remains incomplete. Our Approach towards Home Renovation during Covid-19 Given the circumstances, it

Home renovation checklist

Out with the Old in With the New: Home Renovation Checklist

Do you want to expand your kitchen space or make your current basement more functional? Do you want to start over and make a whole new living space or upgrade an existing one with contemporary elements? A home renovation project can be as simple as installing new windows and changing flooring or as complex as tearing down a wall. To get started, picture your ideal beautiful, vibrant space and what it will look like. Prioritize function: What do you plan to do in your kitchen renovation or when finishing the basement? There are countless ways to maximize the functionality of space with remodeling or renovation. Improve energy efficiency: Going green in your home can help you save money on energy bills or make your home renovation options safer for your family. Hire a designer: If your project is big, it would be much more cost-effective to work with a professional contractor. The experts can help bring your ideas to life and introduce you to new ideas that you might love. Home Renovation or Remodel? Know the Differences Everyone seems to use the terms “renovate” and “remodel” interchangeably. But they don’t mean the same thing. Remodeling is changing the look: Installing new counters, new cabinets, new hardware, new appliances, new flooring, paint, new items, etc. Renovating updates, the function: This includes all things in remodeling plus the demolition of walls, overhauling the floor, window frames, plumping structures, power installations, and gas, and the rearrangement of the entire space to fit your new objectives. Renovations are significant changes to the current space. Remodeling, while still a major project, usually retains the same kitchen designs. You must decide whether what you want to do is remodeling or renovation. It is possible to handle small remodeling projects on your own, but general contracting can save you time and money for extensive renovation projects. How to Go About Home Renovations Find renovation ideas Image: Home renovation return on investment If you are thinking about where to start, prioritize the kitchen. Kitchen renovations are the most complicated, and if you get done here, the rest of the upgrades are easy. The other reason is the home value of the kitchen renovation has a greater potential to improve home value compared to anywhere else in the house. Bathrooms and basements come in second. Search online for the best renovation ideas within your budget and save the images in a ‘design ideas folder’ on your gadget. Consider home renovations that increase home resale value; including changes to flooring and walls Consider your comfort and the impression you want the home to have on your guests Take a tour of some of the local shops, showrooms, and home shows. Call a general contractor in Ottawa, or subcontractors for expert insight Do the Math Now that you have everything you need zoom in to what you can afford or is reasonable for your design objectives. Finishes & Repairs The cost difference between custom and stock cabinets can be huge. It is the same for flooring materials and other design elements. Think about your style and budget and decide whether you need custom or stock to meet your goals. Create a Budget You need a budget. Whether you earn a small income or have a substantial amount in your saving account, the budget keeps you, your designer, and your contractor on the right track. Not sure about the cost of remodeling your kitchen? Below We have listed average costs to help you get a good idea of how much your project will cost you. Average Renovation Costs If you want a ballpark figure to help create your budget, we have some startup numbers. Below are the national average costs of kitchen renovations: General Cost of Kitchen Remodeling The average cost of renovating a small kitchen is $ 21,185, and extensive renovations cost $ 55,503. However, these kitchen renovations increased the home resale value by $ 17,576 for a minor remodel and $ 43,363 for larger remodels. So, your cost will actually be $ 3,600 for small kitchen renovations and $ 12,000 for extensive renovations in these cases. Good math. Minor Kitchen Remodel Replace the front of the cabinet with new raised wooden drawers and doors, including the new hardware Replace wall-mounted ovens with new energy-saving features Replace laminate countertops; install a moderately priced sink and a tap Reset, add wallpaper and remove and lay down a solid floor Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel Renovate a 200-square-foot kitchen with a functional 30-foot conventional custom cabinet made of wood cabinets, including a 3-meter-long island Replace laminate countertops Install a stainless-steel sink standard tap for single handle Replace energy-saving wall oven, cooking area, ventilation system, built-in microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and custom lighting Install a new solid floor Finish with the painted walls, ceiling, and color Major Kitchen Remodel – Upscale Upgrade a 200-square-foot kitchen with a 30-meter-high cherry cabinet top with shelves built into other interiors Replace laminate cabinets with stone countertops and ceramic or glass backsplash imported Install a built-in refrigerator, and 36-inch grade range and vent hood; built-in oven, garbage disposal, and integrated built-in microwave Install a low-rise sink faucet and add a built-in water filter Install new low voltage lamps under the cabinets Install cork flooring Bathroom Remodels A typical bathroom renovation involves updating vanities counter-tops and sinks. Re-tiling the walls, re-painting the walls, and changing the flooring Upgrading faucets and fixtures Image: https://www.greedyrates.ca/blog/how-much-do-home-renovations-really-cost/ How to Pay Your Renovation Fees Whether it’s a kitchen or bathroom renovation Ottawa, there are many ways you can pay for your project. One way is borrowing against your home’s value. There are also ways to borrow that do not rely on your credit history. Here are some of the options at your disposal. Home Equity Loans Home equity loans are secured by your home’s appreciated value. The advantage is that your interest rate mortgage amount will not be increased. Homeowner’s Loan You are borrowing against your income and not the home’s value. Your home will

Home Renovation Guide

Home Renovation Guide Plan Smart and Avoid Costly Mistakes

Basics You Need to Know About Home Renovation in Ottawa, Canada Are you planning to renovate your home for the first time – or the first time in a long time? If yes, this quick, handy Home Renovation Guide will give you the steps to follow so that your renovation is low-stress, on-budget, and improves both the quality of your life and the value of your home. Enjoy! How to Find an Excellent General Contractor in Ottawa Before beginning any home renovation project, your first step is to find an excellent general contractor to take care of everything for you. The general contractor you use will either make your home renovations a joy or, if you choose poorly, could make the entire project a colossal debacle. Below are the basics to follow when searching: Call several contractors and arrange an interview with all of them. (We recommend you call 3) Check online reviews on review websites like Google, HomeStars, Trusted Pros, Yelp, and others. The more positive the reviews, and the more of them you find, the better.  Also check out the companies replies Surf the contractor’s Facebook page and see how they interact with customers. This can give you a great deal of insight into how they deal with the public. Look out for companies with websites or social media pages that only have 3 or 4 portfolios/pictures of their work.  You don’t want to get stuck with a company that has only done 3 bathrooms….. Ask family, friends, and colleagues who have had home renovations or a home addition done in Ottawa, who they would recommend. If they can start right away, keep looking. The best general contractors are always busy and will need to schedule your renovations to fit their work schedule. Set Aside Extra Funds for Hidden Surprises During Your Home Renovation Here’s the thing; there can be a surprise or two when having a basement renovation done in your home. The same goes for kitchen, bathroom, and other renovations. No matter how much you plan, there can be unforeseen problems, changes, and repairs that need to be made, which will increase your final cost. For this reason, we recommend setting aside 10% over and above your home renovation budget. That way, when those surprises happen, you’ll be financially ready to handle them. Don’t Be Fooled by Suspiciously Low Bids One of the biggest causes of stress when renovating a home is being told that the cost will be higher than the contractor told you at the project’s onset. In some cases, the cost can be significantly higher, especially if the contractor gave you a much lower bid than the other bids you received. Two different things cause this scenario. The first, and the worst, is that the contractor purposely underbid to get the job. The second, which is still wrong, is when the person who put together the bid either was new at their job or missed something that the contractor should have included. Either of these two scenarios, a purposefully low bid or a mistakenly low bid, can cause massive headaches down the road once your renovation project is already underway. In most cases, you’ll need to pay the difference or else be left with renovations that are only partially completed. Don’t Put Down a Large Deposit on Your Renovation Project One of the warning signs to look for when hiring general contractor is one who asks for more than 10% down to get the project started. The reason some do is a bit nefarious; unfortunately, they may need the money to finish another person’s renovation project. One caveat; if you’ve asked for expensive fixtures in your home renovation project, your contractor may ask for a 50% deposit for those items. Make Sure the General Contractor you Choose Is Insured This may seem trivial but, at the end of the day, it could be huge. It’s vital you make sure your general contractor has insurance to cover any accidents that might occur during the project. If they don’t, the responsibility for any accidents and injuries could rest on your shoulders alone, which would be very bad, financially speaking. Our suggestion; ask to see their insurance policy and ask for a copy of it as well. Be Prepared for a Bit of Extra Stress One thing that many homeowners don’t plan on is the extra stress that home renovations cause. The truth is, when you have kitchen renovation done, your kitchen will be out of commission, at least for a few weeks, if not a month. The same can be said for a basement renovation or bathroom renovation (although the kitchen is usually the worst). Disruptions, dust, and strangers traipsing through your home can be a very stressful time for many folks, especially children. Planning for this extra stress can be helpful, such as a day out at the zoo or having meals sent to your home. Speaking of planning, negotiating the rules of your home with the renovation crew is vital and needs to be done on day one. For example, will the crew use your bathroom, or will they bring a porta-potty? Will they clean at the end of each day? What hours will they arrive and leave every day, and how they’ll communicate if they’re going to be early or late? Your home addition will be much less stressful if you work these things out at the start of the project. Last Words If you follow the basics above, ask questions (and get answers to those questions), it will usually go off without any significant problems or stress. We recommend staying in constant contact with the head contractor during the project and letting them know of any issues or concerns right away. Do these things, and all of your home renovation projects should come to a very satisfactory conclusion.  Don’t wait to get started get in touch, give us a call today at (613) 727-9427 or use our online form.

Pest Problems During Renovations

How to Control Pest Problems Before During and After Renovation

Home renovation is a demanding project that may include several sub-projects that will improve the appearance and functionality of your home.  In order to efficiently carry out various activities within these renovation tasks, there are several prerequisites every homeowner needs to fulfill in advance.  Taking care of pests, such as bugs and rodents, is one of these important works that require certain care before and throughout the renovation process. Here’s what we suggest on how to control pest problems during renovations. Removing the furniture Furniture items usually hide a lot of secrets about pests. Mice, rats, cockroaches, and water bugs like to build their nests behind pieces of furniture and inside them. When you’re making your renovation plan, you should remove the furniture first. Homeowners need to look behind every closet, armchair, and cabinet to check whether there are any hidden nests. They’re more common in houses than in apartments. So, if you live in a house, you need to be especially careful in locating and identifying insects, mice, and rats. If you don’t notice any nests or poops left by pests, it still doesn’t mean that your home is pest-free. Take a look inside all your closets and cabinets because this is where they like to live and hatch. What’s more, inspect all the wall areas that are usually behind your furniture items. If you notice any holes or damaged parts, it might be a sign that you have some unwanted tenants in your home. Installing traps and sealing holes Homeowners who realize that pests are living in their homes need to try to eliminate them before the renovation starts. For starters, you can make some eco-friendly insecticides and treat bugs, mites, and other insects on your own. In case insects have entered your closets and cabinets or woodworms have spread throughout them, think about replacing them with new pieces of furniture. If you notice that you have rodents in your home, you’ll start wondering what to do to get rid of them. For starters, you can try using some mouse traps. They might be useful if you have only a few mice around your place. However, a larger number of mice or rats is a sign that you might have a more serious problem with pests. This is where calling a reputable pest control company that specializes in mice control to help you is a smart choice. A professional rodent exterminator will cope with your rodent problem efficiently and much quicker than a DIY mice trap method, so you’ll be able to continue with your renovation works. Once you’ve treated the bugs, insects, and rodents, the next thing you should do is to double-check the walls for holes and cracks. When you’re certain that you’ve eliminated all the pests and their nests, you can seal all the cracks, holes, and other damaged parts of the walls. Inspecting neglected parts of the home Renovation is the right time to repurpose some of the parts of your home to give them a new life. Many people neglect their garages. Instead of keeping their cars or bikes in them, they use them as storage space. Whenever there’s a lot of clutter in one place, the risk of infestation is much higher. So, when you’re cleaning or transforming your garage, it’s necessary to inspect all its corners and see whether there are any signs of the presence of pests. What’s more, if there are any water inlets in the garage, clean them with some ecological solutions to make sure that any insects and rodents are eliminated from these areas. If you don’t want to use those inlets in your remodelled garage, seal them. You should apply the same procedure to any storage spaces you have inside your home. From kitchen storage compartments to workshops and the basement, inspect all the areas, eliminate pests, and seal all the potential holes and cracks through which they could sneak into your home. Keeping outdoor pests away If you decide to replace the doors and windows during the renovation process, make sure to prevent insects, flies, and other pests from entering your home. Only one door should be used for entrance/exit to the home. Protect all other empty places for doors with screeners. The entire area needs to be covered so that neither rodents nor flying insects can enter your home. If you remove all the old windows at once, close the window holes and install new windows one at a time. This will prevent flies, hornets, and wasps from entering your home and making nests inside it during the renovation. Once the renovation is finished, conduct a thorough inspection of the entire home to confirm that you’ve kept pests away from it. Conclusion If not properly controlled and eliminated pests can slow down your renovation process. That’s why you should take all the necessary precautionary measures before, during, and after renovations. Only such an approach will ensure that you enjoy yourself in a remodelled and refreshed home, free of insects, bugs, and rodents. * To learn more about pest problems during renovations, don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427.  For pest control services please contact the author; Pestend About the author Luqman has been a pest control technician for over 20 years. He is passionate about solving people’s pest and wildlife control problems through innovative, eco-friendly and humane methods. Luqman currently works for Pestend. He believes that pest control is a science and feels that his function in his community is very important since he helps people live in peace without causing unnecessary harm to animals.

15-of-the-Best-Ideas-for-Home-Renovations-Ottawa-Has-Ever-Seen

Best Ideas for Home Renovations Ottawa Has Ever Seen

Spruce up your Ottawa home with exciting Ideas for Home Renovations! Tired of the same old look? Breathe new life into your space with our inspiring suggestions, catering to any style and budget. Discover innovative ways to transform your outdated Ottawa home into a modern haven! Remodeling is a fantastic way to mix things up and make your house feel new again. Instead of feeling bored at home, you’ll actually want to be there. Renovations go beyond simply adding visual flair, too. In fact, a clever remodel can redefine the entire function of a room. At Renos Group, we’re the best general contractor Ottawa has available. With our help, anything is possible when renovating your interiors. To get your juices flowing, we’ve compiled 15 of our favorite home renovations. Bathroom Renovations in Ottawa First, we’ll take a look at five of our top ideas for renovating your bathrooms. It goes without saying that you’ll be spending a lot of time in the bathrooms, so they should feel warm and inviting. #5: Shift the Location of the Shower for More Space One thing we encounter in outdated bathrooms is a poor location for the shower. If the shower/tub combo is length-wise on the left or right, your bathroom will appear much smaller. By shifting the shower and tub to the back of the room, you free up lots of vanity space. Remember, renovating isn’t always about upgrading appliances or adding visuals. Instead, thoughtful home renovations are all about creating new spaces and functions for the room. The last thing a bathroom should be is claustrophobic, so opening it up for more space is a great idea. Adding more space will give your guests a lot more breathing room. As a result, your guests will feel more comfortable using the bathroom at your place, and you will too! #4: Ritz Up Your Floors How would you describe the current floors in your home? Do they catch your eye or have any reflectiveness, or are they underwhelming? If the answer is the latter, then you should give your floors a makeover. It’s shocking how often homeowners overlook the importance of their floors, especially in the bathroom. If you have plain tiles that have no personality, it’s time to get rid of them. Instead, consider some of the following options as a replacement: Polished concrete veneers Ceramic tile with patterns Metallic epoxy coatings Each of these options is a fantastic way to add visual appeal and intrigue to your bathroom floor. After all, you’ll spend most of your time in the bathroom looking at the floor! #3: Make a Single Vanity a Double Does your bathroom only have one sink but has space for two? Then it’s time to make things interesting by adding a double vanity. Not only will this be more visually appealing, but it’s a practical decision as well. You’ll have an extra sink for your guests, spouse, or special someone. With the added space, you can also add extra storage. As we all know, you can never have enough bathroom storage! The extra storage will also help you free up a lot of counter space. Nothing is worse than a bathroom with hair curlers and shaving razors strewed about everywhere. Renovating to add extra storage space is an intelligent way to keep your restrooms clean and organized. Double vanities also open up a lot of exciting design options. You can add wall lighting in the middle of the two mirrors. You can also have fun selecting two matching mirrors. #2: Add Fancy Wall Tiles If the walls in your bathroom are drab and uninspired, we can put an end to that. You don’t have to limit fancy tile patterns to just your floors. Instead, wall tile is an incredible way to add visual appeal to your walls. Why not give your guests something fascinating to look at while they do their business? Our talented professionals at Renos Group can provide many dazzling ideas for wall tile and other decorative options. Does your bathroom have basic white square tiles? Then you should definitely switch things up. With some decorative wall tile, you’ll stop feeling like you’re using a public restroom at a gas station and more like you’re at home! #1: Have Fun With the Shower Shape There’s no fun in a boring, rectangle-shaped shower. So why not have fun and make the shape of your shower something different? Remember, a good renovation is all about thinking outside the box. A simple circular arch at the top will do a lot to add intrigue to your shower. You can also try other shapes such as ovals, squares, and more. Exciting architecture is a staple of excellent home renovations in Ottawa. Basement Renovations in Ottawa Next, let’s take a look at some creative ideas for renovating your basement. There’s no reason why your basement has to be a dull area used for storage. Here are some of our favorite ways to add excitement to basements. #5: Add an Extra Bedroom Do you have an extra family member in need of their own room? Then the basement is an ideal option. You can have a lot of fun coming up with ways to transition your basement into a bedroom. You can use: Bunk beds An alcove with a built-in bed Shelves Dressers Do your best to make the basement feel as cozy as possible as an extra sleeping area. You can even use it as a make-shift guest room if you have company staying over. Using a theme is also an excellent guide for designing your new bedroom. Is your son a huge fan of race cars? Then why not deck out the entire basement with a car theme? #4: Double Down on Living Rooms Who says that your home can only have one living room? You can make your basement very interesting by making it your second living room. That is an especially great idea if you have children. The kids

Choosing the Best Lighting Fixtures for Your Kitchen

Best Lighting Fixtures for Your Kitchen Renovation

Whether you’re gearing up for a major kitchen renovation or are just looking for ways to enhance and improve the design, lighting is a key piece in any design puzzle. It plays an important role in the overall look, feel and functionality of a room. But choosing the best lighting fixtures for your kitchen can feel a bit tricky with so many options out there today. From blingy statement fixtures to cozy ambient lighting to subtle modern pendant lights – it can feel daunting when you don’t know what you want or need. To help you narrow it down and find the right one, here are some tips to guide you in selecting the best lights for your kitchen. Fixtures for Ambient Lighting The kitchen typically requires more light than other areas of the home. And the primary source usually comes from overhead ambient light fixtures. It’s important to be able to see what you’re doing when you’re cooking up a storm, which is why we recommend spending a little time calculating the amount of wattage you’ll need for your kitchen renovation. This way, when you’re shopping around for a light fixture, you can narrow down your scope and make sure you end up with the proper amount of light. Generally, for a larger kitchen, a light fixture with at least 5 light bulbs is ideal for your ambient lighting. Having a light that fills the space really makes a big difference, so make sure to pay attention to the number of bulbs. Fixtures for Task or Direct Lighting Beyond the main source of lighting, there are many other types of light fixtures that can add more character and make it easier to see during dim evenings. For example, task lighting can be helpful when you want to place direct light in certain areas. This could include light sconces to see better at night, lamps, or under-the-counter lighting to make it easier to read your cookbook or see which spices you’re adding to your new recipe. Consider these smaller fixtures for any areas where you think you’ll need more direct light. Decorative Lighting to Accent Features Similar to task lighting, accent lighting also adds more illumination, but its primary purpose is to enhance the design, highlight certain features in your kitchen, and make it feel cozy. Light installed under the counter plays into this too since it helps to highlight the backsplash. You could also add a light fixture behind one of your glass cabinet doors to show off your fancy wine glass collection, and place a few built-in ones throughout the counter area. If you want your kitchen to have a decorative look and feel, don’t skip out on accent lighting. Here are some of the most common light fixtures for your kitchen renovation: Chandeliers If you love a little decorative bling and need a light fixture overtop of your kitchen table, a chandelier is a popular choice. There are lots of different sizes and styles to consider. If you’re adding other fixtures, we suggest sticking to one particular style and theme. Pendants Pendants are smaller and won’t produce as might light. These generally have only one bulb in them, so they’re not suitable as a main overhead source of light. But they could work well to supplement another fixture. Flush Mounts For smaller kitchens that have a lower ceiling, flush mounts might work well. These are the standard light fixtures that you can find in many homes. They provide strong, diffused light. If you prefer something subtle that can blend in with the surroundings, this could be better suited to your kitchen. Determining Your Lighting Style Keep in mind that your lighting fixtures will always be on display which is why they should play into the overall theme and design of your kitchen and home. If you have a modern kitchen, it won’t make much sense to add in a light fixture that’s super busy, blingy or traditional. To make sure it will look good and cohesive, focus on other elements of your kitchen – are they predominantly metallic, simple black matte, chic and copper? Whatever the common look is, stick with that as much as possible. If most items are finished in black matte, then look for a fixture that’s similar to that style too. It doesn’t have to be the exact same, but it should complement the other features in the kitchen. Lighting seems like a simple afterthought during home renovations and remodels, but when you stop to think about it, it plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics, comfort and function of each space in your home. If you’re planning to redo your kitchen this year, get in touch with our team, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 at the Renosgroup.ca. We can help transform your space and offer our professional recommendations to enhance your design.

8 Ideas for Remodeling Your Basement

8 Ideas for Your Basement Remodel

The basement was once the area of the home that was neglected and used to store old items while collecting dust. But after being stuck at home for so long during this past year, homeowners are taking stock of their unused and underappreciated space more than ever. From a dedicated home office space to a playroom for the kids to the ultimate sports and entertainment lounge, you can get creative with your basement and transform it into something you’ll love, appreciate and actually use. Here are our top ideas for your basement remodel An Extra Bedroom Whether you have a teen who needs their own space or if you have in-laws who like to come and stay with you, the basement could provide extra space for another bedroom. Being tucked away in the basement offers more privacy and comfort. Consider adding built-in shelving if you’re limited on the room you can play with and also opt for carpet to create some additional warmth in the basement. A Home Gym If you love to workout and have been missing those trips to the gym, create a home gym right in your basement. With lots of room to spare, you can fit all of the essential pieces of equipment that you desire. To make it more authentic, add full-length mirrors to the wall and make sure to choose a type of flooring that will hold up well against the machines and weights. A Wet Bar Upgrade your basement with a wet bar so you can be the hub of entertainment when the time comes! Unlike a standard bar, a wet bar includes a sink. If you don’t have the means to include this due to plumbing complications, keep it simple without the sink. If you prefer to maintain an open concept, have the bar installed right up against the wall. This way, you can fit in a table or two if you’d like to have more seating options. Include a beer tap and fridge to make it official! A Playroom for the Kids You don’t have to reserve the basement for the adults. Make it the designated kiddie zone instead. A playroom in the basement will give your kids space to have fun and run around without having to worry as much about causing too much commotion upstairs. It’ll also give you more peace and quiet when you’re trying to get work done upstairs. Sports Games and Entertainment Create your ultimate sports and entertainment area. Add comfy chairs, a large TV screen, and surround sound so you can watch your favourite team on the big screen in your own home. If your basement has the room, consider adding a pool table, foosball table or a classic pinball machine so you can have the best of both worlds with a sports and games room. Wine Collection Are you a wine connoisseur? Why not show off your collection or expand it with a section carved out in your basement just for your wine. With customized shelving, you can decorate a portion of your wall or all of them. This will give your basement that enchanting wine cellar look and feel so you can enjoy sipping on your favourite bottle whenever you please. Home Office With more people working from home these days, the basement is becoming the staple home office hub. With a few additions like carpeting, a fresh coat of paint and a modern office set up, it can be the perfect spot at home to focus and get down to business without too many distractions. Hobby & Crafts Room Getting creative often requires some personal space so you can get into the creative zone and hone in on your craft. Whether it’s painting, photography, or some other form of hobby, use your basement as your studio so you can focus and get those creative juices flowing in peace. When you’re ready to transform your basement into something practical and beautiful, contact our team at the Renosgroup. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout Ottawa remodel and renovate their homes for years. No matter what you are looking for, we can offer our expert advice and recommendations. We will help you refine your goals and vision for the project and map out the scope while working within your budget. With our experience and dedication to quality work, you can rest assured that any project we take on will be done professionally and properly from start to finish. Reach out to us today, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to learn more about our services, or to discuss your ideas.

Increase Your Home Value on a Budget

How to Increase Your Home Value on a Budget

Looking for ways to increase your home value on a budget? We’ve gathered our top suggestions below to improve your design without breaking the bank. Basement Renovations in Ottawa Adding more useable space in the basement is actually more affordable than you might think, especially if you already have a finished basement. All it takes is a few extra touches to transform a grungy, dark basement area into a bright and eye-catching secondary living room space, games room, playroom or secondary suite. A basement renovation in Ottawa both adds more value and also increases your family’s overall enjoyment. New Energy Efficient Fixtures Another way to give the value a boost when you’re on a tight budget is to upgrade all of the energy-draining appliances to energy-efficient ones. EnergyStar washers and dryers, dishwashers, furnaces, fridges, and ovens are the most sought-after upgrades by potential homebuyers because they can save hundreds of dollars in energy bills each year. Updated Kitchen Furnishings You don’t have to rip out all the cabinets and completely customize your kitchen space to add value. Even minor changes in the kitchen can yield high returns. Think of new hardware, upgraded fixtures, a cool mosaic tile backsplash or upgraded flooring to give the room a quick update without breaking the bank. Even new lighting fixtures can greatly improve the look and feel for only a few hundred dollars. Improve the Wood Trim Replacing any old worn wooden trim can make your home look just like new again. The trim around the doors and windows can also be upgraded for a small investment. Bathroom Renovations in Ottawa Does your master bathroom look like something out of that ‘70s show? All it takes is a few hundred dollars to give it a well-needed facelift. Taking down old wallpaper and adding a new tub, installing decorative tiling, and replacing the vanity and mirror with a more modern design are inexpensive ways to change up the look and increase the value. Upgrade the Ceiling Do you still have popcorn ceiling? Removing that old bumpy ceiling and applying a fresh coat of paint or a new stylish wood tongue and groove is an easy, budget-friendly fix. It’s also better for your health if you get rid of it since popcorn ceilings are historically known to contain asbestos dust. Change the Flooring If you’re looking for a big return on investment, changing up the flooring in the main rooms can instantly enhance the value and entire look of your home. The trick is keeping it within budget.  Fortunately, today there are many affordable flooring options that look just like luxury materials. Take vinyl and ceramic for example. These both come in various styles and colours and can even imitate wood and stone. Sustainable flooring options are also more affordable than ever before. Options like cork will give you some serious bang for your buck. Improve the Garage Adding cabinets in the garage is one simple project that can give you lots of extra storage space. But extra space isn’t the only reason to upgrade the garage. Adding slip-proof flooring, for instance, can enhance safety and even add value. Insulating the garage can also be seen as advantageous, especially if you use the garage as a workshop or to store personal belongings. Repair the Entranceway First impressions matter for any home, so if your front yard, driveway, walkway, or front door are looking neglected, consider ways to improve them. Minor improvements can go a long way when it comes to increasing the value of your property. New asphalt on the driveway, a more modern front door, and basic hardscaping upgrades are all it takes to change the appearance and boost the price tag of your home. Add Mobility Services Planning to age in place? Many seniors are opting out of retirement homes to stay where they are most comfortable. If you or a loved one plans to stay put, some modifications may be required to guarantee your safety. Mobility renovation in Ottawa will ensure that your home has enough space to maneuver and that all the counters, cabinets, storage areas are within reach. Brighter lighting can increase visibility and shower and bathroom modifications can reduce slip and fall incidents. Hire someone you can trust to stick to your budget and provide the advice that you can trust. Renosgroup.ca has been assisting homeowners in Ottawa, boosting the value of their properties with beautiful, professional renovation work for decades. Contact us today or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 and let’s start your next project.

Design Trends to Get Behind

6 Design Trends to Get Behind

Over the past year, our homes have become our safe haven and sanctuary. And with so much time spent in it, many of us have started to reassess and consider new ways to make it more enjoyable, beautiful and fulfilling for our everyday needs. If you’re looking for ideas on how to create a space that’s more conducive for work, play and relaxation, we’ve gathered some of the top design trends to get behind in 2021. Check them out below. The Ultimate At-Home Office Nook Gone are the days when the at-home work culture was reserved for a marginal group. Today, having a practical and organized office nook at home is essential. With so much going on throughout the course of this pandemic, many of us have been forced to reshuffle our lives almost instantly, which lead to makeshift office setups sprawled across kitchen tables or random corners of a room where a desk could fit. But now as we come to accept our more indefinite reality, it’s time to consider some unique ways to create a more comfortable and productive workspace at home. Even if you’re limited on space, there are many smart solutions that exist today, such as floating desks and shelves, that can transform any chaotic and messy setup into an organized and professional one. Renovating the basement or even the garage into an office space are becoming increasingly popular options as well. Cottage At Home After being cooped up for more than a year amid the chaos of life lately, we’re all craving more comfort from the outdoors. As a result, cottagecore designs are booming, and they’re likely here to stay. This initially started off as a minor, minimalistic trend but has since blossomed into one of the most sought-after styles today. It combines dainty vintage décor with splashes of pastels and floral prints and elegant touches that add just enough modern flare. If you’ve been thinking of ways to brighten up your space and tap into those happier days spent by the lake, consider the rustic and chic charm of the cottage-core aesthetic. Even if you’re nowhere near cottage country, you can bring a splash of that blissful nostalgia into your home with a fun remodeling project. Spa-like Bathroom Upgrade One area of the home that’s been under the spotlight for design upgrades this past year is the bathroom. Instead of having it as merely a functional room, more homeowners are taking the time to transform it into a purposeful space that can also serve as a luxurious spa-like getaway. This includes modernizing it with heated floors, a glass enclosed shower, soaker tub, floating vanities and more. If you’ve been missing those pampering sessions at the spa, create your own peaceful retreat at home with luxe and sophisticated features like rain showerheads, wood accents, and playful patterns. Basement Upgrades With nowhere to go and nothing to do, homeowners are also investing and upgrading areas of the home that were typically neglected in the past. This includes the basement. Whether it’s a home office, a den for the kids to play, a home gym, a yoga and meditation space or a games room and bar, the basement renovation trend in Ottawa has never been hotter. With the whole family stuck at home together, making use of every square inch just makes sense! Home Additions With the housing market on fire and the pandemic still at large, many people who were initially considering a move are deciding to stay put instead of taking on the chaotic and expensive process. As a result, home additions projects are surging this year. A home addition is by no means a minor project or investment to take on. However, the long-term benefits can far outweigh the upfront costs and effort, especially if you love your current home and location and don’t want to move. Some of the most common home additions in Ottawa that we’ve seen over the past year include sunrooms and garage conversions, adding on a second story, and creating bump-outs that expand on an existing room, like the kitchen. Modern Kitchen with Touchless Features Remodeling the kitchen is always a hot topic and a priority when it comes to upgrading the home. This year, kitchen renovations in Ottawa are predominantly focused on simplistic, minimalistic designs that maximize storage, efficiency and functionality to help make life a little easier. Modern, practical features like a walk-in pantry with plenty of organized storage space is a dominant focal point. Smart tech upgrades and touchless faucets are also favorite features this year as hand washing and hygiene remain top of mind for many of us. Renosgroup.ca has you covered for all of your home renovation in Ottawa. If you’re planning a project and want to implement any of these design trends, get in touch with us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to discuss your ideas and we’ll help put your plans into action.

Types of Home Additions

5 Different Types of Home Additions

If you and your family are quickly outgrowing your current home, chances are you might be considering a move. But there’s also another option to consider if you love your home and neighbourhood, and would rather avoid the daunting moving process. Creating a new addition to your home could be a better solution that provides the extra square footage you need without having to relocate. Whether you need more room in the kitchen, another bathroom or even a second story, our team can work with you to find a home renovation that makes sense. To help you get inspired, here are a few different types of home additions that are most common among homeowners today. A Four Season Sunroom Sunrooms are becoming increasingly popular as home additions because they give homeowners a place to relax and enjoy the view of the outdoors while remaining warm and cozy year-round. This supplemental living area is designed as a separate section that is segregated from the main interior. It typically includes thermal-resistant windows to maximize the natural light while maintaining a comfortable temperature. A Bump Out If you just need a few extra square feet instead of a full-blown home addition, then a bump out is a good option to think about. A bump out will coincide with your home’s current layout, and is meant to simply expand your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room or whichever area needs an extension. This is a route worth taking if your budget is tight and you just want to enhance an area rather than take on a larger and complete home addition renovation. Additional Room Over the Garage Are you looking for a way to bring in additional income each month? If so, you could consider adding a rental unit on top of the garage. This type of project can require drywalling, plumbing, and insulation. But it can be well worth it once you’re able to rent it out and have extra, steady income flowing in. A Second Story Though it may seem daunting to even think about adding a second story to your home, it does have its advantages! If you need more space in your home but really dread the thought of moving, adding a second story might make more sense for you. This is a common addition for homeowners who really love their current location, have a good network established in their community and are close to family. By doubling the square footage, you will have lots of options on how to utilize it best for your needs and family. This type of project can be complex which is why you’ll need to consult with a qualified contractor to determine if it’s feasible for your property. Additional Bathroom Sharing one bathroom for a family of four can be a nightmare scenario, which is why bathroom additions are also popular reno projects. Your contractor will take a look at your home to see if it’s possible to install a new bathroom. In some cases, this might mean sacrificing some storage space or even a closet. There are numerous types of home additions that can enhance your current home and give you all of the extra space you need to live comfortably. If you’re interested in learning more about your options and how this can work for your property, contact our team in Ottawa. We have helped many homeowners across the city transform their property with home additions that accommodate their needs, and we can do the same for you. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.