Partner Profile: Grant’s Marble

May 5, 2016 No Comments

As a leading home renovation company in Ottawa, we are proud to partner with the best manufacturers and supplies of quality materials for your home, kitchen, and bathroom. From custom-built cabinetry to tiles to assisted living modifications to window shutters, we seek out partners who embody the values of quality, dependability, and impeccable design. Many of our suppliers are based right here in Ottawa or the surrounding area. Today, we are excited to profile Grant’s Marble, a manufacturer of engineered marble and granite products. What is Engineered Stone? Engineered stone (also known as cultured stone or synthetic stone) is a blend of cast polymers – typically fiberglass, limestone, and resin – combined with pigment to create natural-looking colours and patterns. Cultured marble looks indistinguishable from its natural counterpart, but it also has many advantages. For one, because it is engineered you can request any colour or pattern of your choosing, rather than being limited by nature. Engineered marble is cast in moulds, allowing you to create custom shapes, lengths, and widths for shower surrounds and countertops that would not be possible with slab marble. Finally, engineered marble is the far more economical choice for homeowners who want luxury design at an affordable price point. What are the Advantages of Engineered Marble? Engineered marble is maintenance-free and a breeze to clean. Unlike plastic shower bases and walls, the material never cracks. As a bonus, it’s much easier and quicker to install than tile. With roll-in or low threshold options available, it’s a great choice for accessible/mobility friendly bathrooms, and recessed shower niches were also recently added to the product line. We spoke with Paul Grant, owner of Grant’s Marble, who explained the compelling advantages. “Our synthetic marble products make great bathroom choices. Our shower bases are solid when you stand on them, and when combined with our one-piece wall panels it is said they will outlast the customer! If they are looking for a shower that will never leak, easy to clean, and last – this is it. Oh, did I mention that both have a lifetime warranty? And with 52 colours to choose from, you can always find the perfect colour. We also make custom shower bases to fit different sizes and drain locations. Custom bases offer a low profile threshold that is only 2 1/4” high and is most desirable.” Marble & Granite for Your Renovation Project Grant’s Marble is based in Elginburg, ON, a small village just north of Kingston, about a two-hour drive from Ottawa. Grant’s Marble specializes in synthetic marble and granite products for bathrooms, including shower bases, wall panels, seamless vanity tops, and tub decking/skirting. They also make engineered marble accessories, like shower seats and caddies that integrate flawlessly with the rest of the shower. All of their shower bases and wall panels are covered by a robust lifetime warranty. Grant’s Marble has a very active Facebook page, and we’d like to share some of their creations to give you a visual idea of what is possible with cultured marble. Custom shower with marble panels with grey swirl and ceramic tiles Glass shower with marble shower base, wall panels, and custom caddy Marble tub decking and skirting Engineered granite vanity top The manufacturing process: a marble wall panel in the factory If cultured marble from Grant’s Marble sounds like the right fit for your bathroom renovation project, get in touch with RenosGroup.ca! Quality installation, quality materials, and quality customer service is what we’re all about. To see some of our other great partners, check out our Online Product Showroom. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Bathroom Renovations That Make A Real Room

November 19, 2015 No Comments

For many years, homeowners in Ottawa neglected bathroom renovations, redesigns and upgrades. After all, most people don’t spend anywhere near as much time in the bathroom as they do the rest of the house. But over the years, bathroom renovations have been the subject of fascinating new trends, all of which are designed to bring comfort, style, and luxury into the room. If you’re looking for ideas for bathroom redesign, continue reading for five designer tips to get you started. “More Than The Bathroom Sink” When doing bathroom renovations, think bigger than what you’re accustomed. Nowadays, homeowners are turning their bathrooms into areas where you can listen to music, relax and read a book, and effectively store reading material and entertainment items. There’s no shame in adding some furniture into the bathroom, especially if it fits well with the style and theme of the room. So you can upgrade your showerhead to an eco-friendly design that makes water usage more efficient while offering just as much comfort. You can even enjoy a hot bath in surround sound as companies like Delta offer upgrades for built-in stereo equipment. There’s no reason you shouldn’t be just as comfortable in your bathroom as you are elsewhere in the home. Add Colour To Dull White You’ll find it difficult to meet someone whose bathroom isn’t painted white. That’s because white is often believed to be a peaceful and soft colour suggesting tranquility and comfort. But that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with colours to redesign your bathroom to look the way you really want. You can finish the job quicker by simply painting the walls a new colour. Generally, brown, tan, or other natural colours are most popular. Feel free, however, to embellish your environment with turquoise, forest green, or even red or blue. To successfully incorporate colour into the home, consider browsing the internet or design magazines for ideas. Remember, what you see in your head may not look the same when you begin redesigning. So take your time and think carefully about the colour you add. Combine Different Materials Glass, wood, stone, and china should cross your mind here. Bring some shine into the bathtub with glass tiles. Stainless steel is very popular and you can try this for sinks, bathtubs, and shower walls. The trick for remodeling is to take a simple design idea, be creative, and make the room stand out. Experimenting with both colour and materials gives you the chance to turn your bathroom into a beach. Use wood and some plants, then add some brown and green colours and your bathroom is now a quiet spot in a calm forest. The more you look around and think outside the box, the better design ideas you’ll come up with. Declutter The Bathroom Sometimes too much is just as bad as too little. That said, it doesn’t hurt to take things out of your bathroom before redesigning, especially if the room is particularly cluttered. Instead of keeping cosmetic products stacked around the sink, use cabinets and containers to store combs, brushes, toothbrushes, shampoo, lotion, etc. Use some of the materials mentioned above rather than buy cheap, flimsy containers. Dim The Lights One way to turn a relaxing environment into a torture shack is using extremely bright lights. Bright lights make your eyes hurt and take away the comfort of a soothing bathroom. Whatever ideas you have, it’s always ideal to work with a trained designer, preferably one you trust if he or she is available. With so many beautiful design options to choose from, there’s no limit to what you can to redesign your bathroom for comfort and style. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today we’d be happy to take your dull bathroom into a relaxing retreat with our bathroom renovation services.

The Risks Of A DIY Bathroom Renovation

September 3, 2015 No Comments

When treated right, your home becomes a valuable investment that will serve you well for years to come. With many people looking to improve the quality and price of their home, things like interior repairs and renovations are becoming increasingly popular. As much of this work is being done by the homeowners themselves, an entire cottage industry of “do it yourselfers” (or DIY) has emerged. While DIY is a great way to save money and invest your personal time in your house, it is not without its risks. In particular, work done to renovate bathrooms can be particularly challenging. If you are considering DIY work regarding your bathroom, then let’s take a moment to review some of the risks you should consider. 1. Underlying Pipes Changing up or expanding a bathroom means dealing with the underlying pipework necessary for running water in and out of your bathroom. While this may seem simple on paper, there is a lot to learn when it comes to pipework and water that few people consider. From proper water pressure to running the lines correctly, there are many chances to accidentally flood the bathroom and your home if you are not careful. As always, be sure to turn off the water line into your home prior to removing water fixtures as you may end up with either leaks or flooding. 2. Time People prefer DIY home renovations because it saves them money. However, what it saves in money it will cost in time. If you have more than one bathroom in your house, then this won’t be a problem. However, if you need to rely on the bathroom that you are renovating, then prepare for the hassle that will come with utilizing a space that is transitioning. This means increased risk of potential damage to both you and your bathroom during this time. 3. Off-Centre While minor, there is the risk that your eventual plans are going to be off when practically applied to the space due to limitations that only become apparent once you are knee-deep in the bathroom renovation. While some people live to problem solve, others will find it frustrating when a fantastic concept falls to pieces due to unforeseen limitations on placement. With this in mind, be sure to provide everything you use in the bathroom with its necessary space. One of the most common problems seen with DIY bathroom renovations is a tight clustering of different things around a particular spot. To avoid all of these DIY mistakes altogether, enlist the help of a professional bathroom renovations contractor like RenosGroup.ca. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Biggest Bathroom Renovation Trends

August 17, 2015 No Comments

Every year, the home and garden website Houzz conducts a survey measuring the behaviours and interests of North American homeowners. So, what trends do we see in bathroom renovations this year? Are homeowners expanding bathrooms or working with the existing footprint? What are the biggest bathroom renovation trends? Supersize Showers Even if the footprint remains the same, homeowners want supersized showers, especially in the master bathroom. In fact, 84% of homeowners upgraded their master showers during the bathroom renovation. 30% of master bath showers were increased by 50% of more in size. Mobility Renovations The Baby Boomer generation is three times more likely to install grab bars and other accessibility features than younger generations. However, other features of mobility renovations like hand-held shower heads, shower seats, non-slip flooring, and thermostatic mixers were popular regardless of the age of the homeowner. What Matters Most in Terms of Design Most homeowners reported that they wanted their renovated bathrooms to be stylish and beautiful (83%) or to have a spa-like atmosphere (41%). Other popular design elements include a reflection of personality (38%), abundant natural light (34%), making a statement (23%), being energy efficient (22%), being eco-friendly (8%), and being romantic (7%). What Matters Most in Terms of Function 55% of homeowners wanted a bathroom that was easy to clean (55%), while 53% of respondents wanted easy storage. Other important functions include good lighting (47%), compatible for two people (46%), easy to get ready in (36%), relaxing (34%), and making the homeowner look good (2%). How Often Are Bathrooms Renovated? According to the survey, 46% of homeowners last upgraded the bathroom between 16 to 30 years ago. 30% of full baths were last upgraded more than 30 years ago! Some homeowners have the renovation bug, though, with 4% of full baths being remodeled under five years after the last renovation. What Style is Most Popular? Contemporary is the most popular style (25%), followed by traditional (21%), and transitional (18%). Other popular styles include modern (10%), eclectic (5%), craftsman (5%), and beach (3%). Flooring & Walls Ceramic was the most popular title choice, followed closely by porcelain. Other common flooring options included marble, wood, travertine, and linoleum. Paint was the overwhelming favourite wall finish (71%), but other common choices included ceramic tile, porcelain tile, marble, wood, travertine, and wallpaper. Lighting Many homeowners placed an emphasis on good lighting in the bathroom. The most common options were wall sconces (60-64%) and recessed lighting (44-61%), followed by lighted mirrors (14-16%), chandeliers (5-15%), and pendant lamps (9-12%). However, in 12% of masters and 17% of family baths, the lighting was not upgraded at all. Whether you want to follow the popular trends or set out on your own path, RenosGroups.ca is here to help make your bathroom renovation dream a reality. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Things to Consider for Bathroom Renovations

7 Surprising Things to Consider During Your Bathroom Renovation

August 6, 2015 No Comments

There are many reasons why Ottawa homeowners decide it’s time for a bathroom renovation. Maybe they want to upgrade an outdated bathroom, improve the functionality of the space, create more storage, accommodate changing family needs, or increase the value of the home. No matter the reason, here are seven surprising things to consider for bathroom renovations: The Importance of Prioritization When planning a bathroom renovation, it can be easy to lose your head in the clouds, dreaming of heated floors and a wood plank feature wall and vintage clawfoot tub. This is all well and good until you realize you didn’t leave enough room in the budget for the thing you needed most, a new toilet. Make a list of your priorities and budget accordingly. Otherwise, it’s all too easy to get lost in the details. Find a Balance When planning a bathroom renovation, you have to balance an investment of time, money, energy, and quality. Going with a DIY approach may save you money, but it will “cost” a lot in terms of time, energy, and worse results. That’s why turning to a professional bathroom renovation contractor offers the best balance with outstanding quality delivered on time and on budget. Contingency Fund Once you calculate what you can afford to spend, take at least 10% to 20% of this budget to use for a contingency fund. If you allocate every penny of your budget, any delay, damaged material, or unexpected surprise behind the walls will spell trouble. Be prepared so your project can continue smoothly. Out of the Bathroom Consider the bathroom a “no go” zone when it’s under renovation. Move all of your bathroom essentials like toothbrushes and razors to another bathroom if possible, otherwise turn your kitchen into “bathroom central” until the renovation is complete. Create a Sketch Don’t just visualize your remodeled bathroom in your head. Even just a rough sketch of the layout is a good start, but then take exact measurements and get drawings or a 3D model to get an accurate picture. Measure Twice… This should go without saying, but the old adage “measure twice, cut once” holds as true as ever. Haste makes waste, so work slowly and accurately so you get better results. Even better, hire a bathroom renovation contractor for perfect precision. When Replacing Flooring If you are replacing the flooring in your bathroom, use the opportunity to replace the underlayment as well. This will provide an even, watertight surface for your flooring, and you’ll be able to undo any water damage that has gathered over the years. Save yourself the headache and turn to the bathroom renovation professionals at RenosGroups.ca. We do it right the first time so you end up with a beautiful, functional, and durable bathroom to enjoy for years to come. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

10 Handy Tips for Staying Safe in the Bathroom

July 27, 2015 No Comments

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada and Statistics Canada, more seniors are injured at home than at any other location. About half of all seniors falls happen at home. Environmental hazards in the home are the most common environmental risk factor for falls, and nowhere are these hazards more prominent than in the bathroom. Here are ten handy tips so you can stay safe and prevent falls in your home bathroom: Throw Out Throw Rugs According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, throw rugs are the number one cause of household falls in the US. If you like the look of the rugs and don’t want to remove them, you can secure the rugs in place with slip-resistance backing or double-sided tape. Non-Slip Shower Water and soap are both slippery, which makes taking a shower a pretty big risk for falls. For this reason, you should place a non-slip mat or anti-slip shower treads on the floor of the tub or shower. If you plan a mobility renovation, you can choose to have slip-resistant tiles installed. These tiles are coated with an abrasive material for safety purposes. Clean Tub If you don’t clean your tub regularly, soap scum can build up and make the tub slippery. So clean it on a weekly basis. As an added safety bonus, you’ll also clear away mould and mildew growth. Dry Floor It’s no surprise that water on the floor creates a hazardous condition. Make sure you keep your bathroom floor dry and mop up any wet spots if they appear. To prevent water from the shower dripping on the floor, purchase a weighted shower curtain. Mobility Renovations Grab bars and rails around the toilet, shower, and tub are important safety features, especially for seniors. They help you maintain your balance so you don’t fall. If you do accidentally slip, you can reach out and grab a bar to regain your balance. Remember, items like towel bars are NOT substitutes for proper grab bars. Lighting You should place nightlights in the hallway to easily guide you toward the bathroom at night. Within the bathroom, place a nightlight or install an illuminated switch so you can safety turn on the light and conduct your business. Higher Toilet Seat Trying to crouch down onto a low toilet seat isn’t only uncomfortable for people with mobility limitations, it can also lead to a fall. Invest in a heightened toilet seat or use the opportunity to upgrade to a new toilet that not only sits higher, but is more energy efficient. Bath Seat or Bench Your mobility renovations should also include a bath or shower seat or bench. This gives you a place to rest if you feel tired, and you can also bathe yourself comfortably while sitting down safely. Handheld Showerhead If you are trying to get your whole body clean with a stationary showerhead, it requires a lot of movement on your part. A handheld showerhead is much more convenient, and can easily be used from the comfortable perch of a bath seat or bench. Slow and Steady When you try to rush, you are more likely to cause an accident. Go slow and steady and make sure you are safe and balanced. Make sure you allocate more time in the bathroom for yourself by waking up ten minutes earlier, for example. These ten tips should help keep everyone safe in the bathroom. For more handy tips regarding mobility renovations, contact RenosGroup.ca today. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

The Hottest Bathroom Trends

July 8, 2015 No Comments

Whether you’re cooling off in the shower after a hot summer’s day outside, cuddling up with your partner in a Jacuzzi tub, or trying to wrangle the kids for a quick bath before bed, we demand a lot from our bathrooms. We also deserve for them to be relaxing spaces. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation or upgrade, consider this year’s hottest bathroom trends: Elegant Bathtub Gone are the days when a bathtub is just a vessel for your shower – this year standalone tubs get the spotlight all to themselves. Whether you want an elegant clawfoot tub with cast iron features and a rolled rim, an Art Deco pedestal bathtub or a freestanding soaker tub made of reinforced acrylic, there is a tub to match any design style. These quality tubs run a pretty penny, but they are incredibly durable and will be well worth the price the first time you soak into the warm and bubbly water. Dual-Flush Toilet We don’t talk about toilets much, but they’re definitely an important facet of the bathroom! This year, it’s all about high-efficiency dual-flush toilets. There are two different buttons or handles to flush a different volume of water depending on what is needed. The dual-flush technology cuts down on water usage, helping the environment and trimming your monthly expenses. For an extra luxury, wall hung toilets take up less space and use even less water. Vanity with Storage Are you sick of toothbrushes, hairbrushes, makeup, creams, and lotions that you haven’t touched in three years crowding your bathroom counter? A vanity completes the look of the space, but it also serves an important function in terms of organization. Choose from a contemporary urban vanity with natural earth tones and chrome handles, a colonial birch double vanity, or an espresso-coloured wood vanity with sophisticated granite counters. Everything But the Bathroom Sink No matter the size of your bathroom, you can invest in a contemporary sink that enhances the look of the space. Choose between popular options like a slim pedestal sink made of China, glass sink with a chrome faucet, or deep ceramic wall mount vessel sink. With waterfall faucets and other aesthetically pleasing features, even kids will be excited to wash up! If you want to be at the peak of style this year, any one of these elements can give the bathroom renovation look you’ve always imagined. Whether your style is sleek and contemporary or warm and vintage, RenosGroups.ca can make it happen. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

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 a New Tub & Acrylic Shower Walls Can Improve Your Bathroom

November 27, 2014 No Comments

If your bathroom is damaged or is starting to look dated your best option is to replace the old tub and shower with a sparkling new tub and easy to clean acrylic shower walls. Here are four ways how a new tub & acrylic shower walls can improve your bathroom: Solid Unlike bathtub-liners, new tubs are solid and are offered in a variety of shapes, styles and prices. They can be installed easily by a professional contractor, and can even feature slip resistant surfaces to help reduce the chances of slips and falls. Easy to Clean Your new shower walls are a breeze to clean for a number of reasons. First you can easily clean smooth surfaces using a squeegee following each bath and shower. Second you can see a reduction in mould and mildew as many products are made of antimicrobial materials that stop their growth. As well, there will not be any troublesome grout that tends to become dark and discoloured over time. Stained grout often requires a heavy duty steam cleaning to remove mould, mildew and deep down stains. Hard to damage Your new tub and custom acrylic shower walls are exceptionally durable providing high quality finishes that offer beauty and longevity. These highly walls are resistant to chipping, cracking and even damage from acidic cleaners. They are also dent proof and impact resistant. Easy Install When you opt for tile in your bathroom it is a very expensive option for your remodel. Tile is not only expensive material wise, but is also very labour intensive. Custom acrylic shower walls are installed in a matter of hours so you have a beautiful new bathroom the same day. This also means you will not be left without a bathroom during the remodel. Stylish Many people are hesitant to consider acrylic shower walls as they are concerned they are not very attractive. You will find many design choices perfect to suit your sense of style. As well there are many features that make it easier to shower with specialty handles, shelves and other handy details not available with a simple tile replacement. There are even modern options using technology to print realistic faux looks for stone and tile for an upscale look you will love. Your shower walls and new tub are both easy to install, look lovely and provide a strong seal to rid you of troublesome leaks. For more information on how a new tub & acrylic shower walls can improve your bathroom don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Making the Bathroom a Safe Place

October 9, 2014 No Comments

Water and a slippery surface make for very dangerous conditions. Your bathroom can be quite hazardous especially for the young, elderly and disabled. If you would like to make your bathroom a safer place for your family, RenosGroup can provide a number of minor renovations that will help you avoid accidents. Hand Rails/Grips It can be extremely difficult at times getting in and out of the shower or bathtub, especially if the floor is slick and if there is nothing to hold on to. Hand rails and grips can be placed on the bathroom walls to allow for easy access in and out of the tub. In certain cases it is also a good idea to add them beside the toilet to make it easier for people to sit and stand. Rails are textured to allow for a sturdy grip without the fear of your hands slipping. Hand rails offer numerous benefits beyond mobility assistance. Increased Confidence: The assurance of support fosters a sense of confidence and independence, especially for individuals with balance issues. Reduced Risk of Falls: Rails reduce the risk of slips and falls, creating a safer environment for everyone using the bathroom. Peace of Mind: Knowing that loved ones have the necessary support promotes peace of mind for both users and caregivers. Invest in safety; invest in well-being. Handrails and grips are not just safety features; they are investments in well-being and independence. Incorporating them into your bathroom, creates a space that fosters confidence, dignity, and peace of mind for all users. Acrylic Bathtubs/Showers Traditional bathrooms involve intricate tile work which can be very expensive and slippery. Thankfully, acrylic baths and shower walls are an affordable and safer option. These acrylic instillations can be completed in as little in one day, which greatly cuts down on man hours, and labour costs. You can also add special safety features such as bars and handrails and non-slip tub or shower floors. Acrylic to the Rescue: Thankfully, acrylic bathtubs and shower walls offer a compelling alternative. They are: Affordable: Compared to the cost of materials and installation for tile, acrylic offers a much more budget-friendly option. Safer: The inherent non-slip properties of acrylic minimize the risk of slips and falls, creating a safer bathroom environment. Quick Installation: Unlike tile, which can take days to install, acrylic tubs and showers can be completed in as little as one day, reducing disruption and labor costs. Customization Options: Don’t think that “affordable” means sacrificing style. Acrylic comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures to match your bathroom’s design. Enhanced Safety Features: While acrylic itself is safer than tile, you can further enhance safety by incorporating additional features: Grab Bars and Handrails: Strategically placed bars and rails provide added support for entering, exiting, and maneuvering within the shower or bathtub. Non-Slip Tub/Shower Floors: Invest in textured or etched tub or shower floors for even greater slip resistance. Non-slip Flooring Non-slip flooring in the bathroom instantly adds a huge safety factor that can take many worries off of your mind. Although you may think a bath mat or towel on the floor might do the trick, this is just one other thing people can slip on. Non-slip flooring in the bathroom makes gives your wet feet something easy to grip that can save you and your family from slips and falls. Non-slip bathroom flooring is not just a safety upgrade; it’s an investment in the well-being of everyone using your bathroom. By prioritizing safety, you create a space that fosters confidence, independence, and peace of mind. So, step confidently into a safer future with the right non-slip flooring solution. Additional Tips: Place bath mats strategically near shower and bathtub exits, but ensure they have a non-slip backing. Regularly clean and maintain your chosen flooring material to maximize its slip resistance. Consult with a flooring professional to discuss your specific needs and the best options for your bathroom. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and safe bathroom environment for all. Lots of Open Space If mobility is an issue RenosGroup can offer suggestions on how you can open up your bathroom allowing for easier wheelchair access. Extra space also works well for those with walkers. When mobility is a concern, making the most of your bathroom space becomes crucial. At RenosGroup, we understand the importance of accessibility and can offer various solutions to transform your bathroom into a safe and comfortable haven. Open Up the Doorway: Widen the entrance: Aim for a minimum doorway width of 36 inches (91 cm) to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers comfortably. Consider alternative doors: Sliding doors or pocket doors eliminate swinging door clearance issues and maximize usable space. Clear the Clutter: Minimize unnecessary furniture and fixtures: Evaluate whether every item serves a purpose and remove anything that creates obstacles. Utilize wall-mounted storage: Opt for shelves, cabinets, and towel racks mounted on walls to keep the floor clear for easy maneuvering. Choose transparent shower doors: This helps visually expand the space and creates a feeling of openness. Heat Lamp Heat lamps are also a great idea as they can help you dry off more quickly. This means there will be less chance of water dripping when you get out of the tub or shower. It will also make it easier to towel dry and keep you warmer on chilly days. Beyond Drying Off: While drying off quickly is certainly a benefit, heat lamps offer more than just practicality: Warmth on Demand: Especially on colder days, the gentle warmth of a heat lamp instantly makes your bathroom more inviting and comfortable. Relaxation and Soothing: The radiant heat can contribute to a more relaxing and spa-like experience, easing muscle tension and promoting circulation. Reduced Risk of Slips and Falls: By minimizing the time spent wet on slippery surfaces, heat lamps potentially contribute to a safer bathroom environment. Choosing the Right Heat Lamp: Size and wattage: Select a heat lamp appropriate for your bathroom size and desired level of warmth. Safety features: Opt for models with safety features like automatic shut-off and tip-over protection. Style and placement: Choose a design that complements your bathroom’s aesthetics and position it strategically for optimal coverage. These simple

Designing the Ultimate Bathroom

September 17, 2014 No Comments

Bathroom designs vary from person to person whether the focus is mobility, design, or luxury. No matter what aspect you try to focus on, designing the ultimate bathroom includes the following considerations: Space Not all homeowners are lucky enough to have a large bathroom, however it isn’t always about size, but the way you utilize it. Even the smallest bathroom can be improve immensely with the right design. The floor plan will dictate how space is used and contribute to the overall functionality of the bathroom. When looking at your space consider all of the things you want to incorporate from your wish list and work with your contractor to make it happen. Budget Everyone will be working with a different budget for the bathroom renovations Ottawa contractors will provide. You have to look at the maximum amount you can afford and then make sure part of that money is set aside for your contingency plan. Bathroom renovations can often lead to unexpected costs and by including a contingency budget you will be certain to have more than enough to handle whatever happens. You can then use any leftover money for higher end finishes such as lighting and faucets. Dream Idea Even for the most functional bathroom reno you will have a dream idea in mind. Whether you collect photos from magazines, print off some ideas you have found online or have a design style such as boutique hotel or sleek and modern, incorporating your dream ideas into the design will make sure your bathroom renovation is a success. Design details to consider include flooring, tub and tiles, but it is also very important to consider the dream aspects of function as well such as storage, lighting for applying makeup and shaving, heated floors, double sinks and solutions to improve aspects of your current bathroom that you hate. Finding a Contractor Your bathroom renovation requires knowledge in many areas from plumbing to electrical and tile laying to understanding how to prevent leaks. That means you do not want to trust your bathroom renovations to just anyone. Do your research and ask around for a referral. If you do not find a referral look for a contractor who has knowledge in bathroom renovations with a website that explains their services. You also want to find a contractor with plenty of testimonials and photos of the work they have done in the past. These elements work together to create the ultimate bathroom renovations Ottawa loves. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Why We Recommend Acrylic Walls for Your Bathtub or Shower

July 25, 2014 No Comments

Homeowners tend to choose what they feel is the most visually appealing and cost effective when it comes to renovating, however there are some items that should have extra consideration spent on such as acrylic shower walls. Find out why you choose acrylic shower walls over tile, pre-fab or store bought acrylic systems below: Tile & Grout Lines Mold, dirt and soap scum eventually build up in the grout as it is a porous material. Depending on what the tiles are made of they can stain or discolour. Acrylic walls are 100% non-porous and will not grow mold, stain or discolour. Pre-fab Tub/Shower Units These units are fairly bland and are mostly hollow behind the walls. If someone were to slip and fall they could possibly crack or put a hole in the wall. As tubs and showers are very slippery this is a common occurrence. Custom acrylic shower walls are installed directly on top of existing tile walls (as long as they are not coming loose), or on top of new drywall or cement board so they are never hollow. They also come in many sizes and are continually growing in colours and patterns. Shower Wall Systems in a Box Poor quality materials are often used in building, and top layer can wear extremely thin very quickly. This can make your shower wall system to appear faded and outdated. Shortly after that it becomes the porous material just below that thin layer, usually fiberglass. Once dirt and grime get inside of the pores in the fiberglass they never come out, ultimately causing your 3-5 year old shower walls to look much older, faded and dirty. Please don’t wait to get in touch with us at RenosGroup so that we can make your dream bathroom renovation Ottawa into a reality. To do so, you can complete our online form, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to request your free in-home

Bathrooms Renovations Blog