How to Pay for Your Home Renovation

April 21, 2016 No Comments

Why do you want to plan a home renovation? To add more space to your home? Add resale value to your home? Make it more functional? More energy efficient? Or does the space simply need a style makeover? Whatever the reason, it is likely obvious and close to your heart. Financing your renovation project, on the hand, may be a fuzzier topic. Before you get into the nitty gritty of designing a layout or choosing the right paint colour, you need to determine where the money will come from. If you’ve been saving specifically for this occasion and have a lump sum sitting in the bank, then you’re golden. If not, do you plan to take a loan? Secure a home equity line of credit? Let’s explore a few of the different financing options on how to pay for your home renovation: Savings If you are planning a small renovation project like turning a spare bedroom into the nursery or adding a powder room to the main floor, you can likely pay for it out of pocket if you have sufficient savings. However unless you have been a very diligent saver, larger renovation projects like overhauling the kitchen or planning a home addition will require alternate funding. Credit Card A credit card is fine for paying for materials, especially if you are doing a smaller renovation or DIY weekend project – just make sure you pay it off quickly. However due to the high interest rates on credit cards, you’re better off finding alternate funding options if the project is large. Personal Loan As with a mortgage, you can apply for a personal loan. In addition to the principal, you will have to pay interest. On the upside, personal loans have a lower interest rate than credit cards. Unlike a personal line of credit, you will have to reapply for a new loan once you pay it off. Personal Line of Credit The huge benefit of a personal line of credit is that you can access funds to the credit’s limit on an ongoing basis. This is ideal for ongoing renovations rather than one project with a determined end date. A personal line of credit has much lower interest rates than credit cards. Home Equity Loans Home equity loans borrow money against the value of your home. They have even better interest rates than personal lines of credit. Beware that home equity loans do require set-up costs, such as legal fees and appraisal fees. You can usually borrow up to 80% of your home’s value. Mortgage Refinancing Mortgage refinancing allows you to spread the cost of renovations over a period of years by bundling it with your mortgage repayment (at the same interest rate as your mortgage, far better than credit card/personal loan interest rates). You can borrow up to 80% of the equity in your home. As with home equity loans, legal and appraisal fees do apply. Additional Funding You can qualify for government funding to incentivize positive renovations, like making your home more energy-efficient or mobility-friendly. For example, the Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit encourages seniors and their families to make homes safer and more accessible. You can claim up to $10,000 in eligible expenses and receive up to 15% back as a tax credit. The HHRTC is proposed to end on January 1, 2017. Once you’ve secured funding, get in touch with RenosGroup.ca to get your estimate for a bathroom renovation, kitchen renovation, mobility renovation, basement renovation, home addition, or coach house remodel/construction. To learn more about how to pay for your home renovation, don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Should You Renovate Before Listing Your Home for Sale?

April 14, 2016 No Comments

You have had your house for some time now and made a great life for yourselves in it. But now that it’s time to move, how much will you get back on your investment? It should come as no surprise that the better the condition of your home, the more modern the design, and the more energy-efficient, the better your chances of getting the full value of the property. So – Should You Renovate Before Listing Your Home for Sale? The simple answer is yes, you should choose renovation projects that make sense for your budget, that will be noticed by potential buyers, and that will improve the resale value of your home. Save the big ambitious projects for your next home, and try to stick to renovation ideas and décor choices that have universal appeal. Red Flag for Buyers When potential buyers walk into the house, they are looking for red flags. A red flag may be a huge substantive issue, like a massive visible foundation crack or water spots upstairs that may hint to a roof leak. In this case, potential buyers are right to turn away. However red flags can also be small things that drop the desirability of your home when compared with competing properties. These red flags will vary from buyer to buyer, but yes, it could be things like your structurally sound but aesthetically hideous 80s kitchen, or your ratty old living room carpet keeping you from getting an offer. Every time a potential buyer spots a red flag, they are mentally reducing how much they would be willing to pay for your home – if they’re even interested in making an offer at all. Renovation for Resale If you are planning to sell your home, there are many valid reasons to do a renovation project beforehand. Whether it’s small DIY fixes like upgrading cabinet hardware or a massive overhaul project, remodelling will make your house more attractive to buyers and improve the resale value of your home. Inspiration from the House Hunt Since you are likely looking for a new home at the same time, why not take inspiration from other homes that you see online or during showings? What features make your jaw drop, and what do you not even notice? Let’s say you always appreciate a clean, well-organized entryway. Well, this would be an easy improvement project that you can do in a weekend. On the other hand, what if homeowners spent thousands installing new cabinetry when a simple reface would have made you happy? Potential buyers will always look at floors, countertops, paint colour, appliances (even if appliances aren’t included in the home). Other features are tricky. Potential buyers will point out hideous light fixtures, and beautiful light fixtures – but they won’t even notice regular, run of the mill light fixtures. So there’s an area you can save money. Likewise, they will notice grotesque stained carpet, and admire beautiful glossy hardwood floors, but if you have regular clean carpet you’re fine. BONUS TIP: While a DIY approach is appropriate for some small projects like upgrading to LED light bulbs, be careful about any project where sloppy work will show. For example it is easy and affordable to install new shower tiles, but if the tiles are crooked and grout is uneven, potential buyers will not be impressed and all your efforts will go to waste. Work with a qualified contractor in Ottawa and get professional results. To learn more about whether you should renovate before listing your home, don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Turn the Basement into a Game Room

April 7, 2016 No Comments

Is your basement a dark, musty, unfinished space? No longer. For many homeowners in Ottawa, the basement is so much more than a gloomy storage room, musty laundry room, or unused space. Have you thought about turning your basement into a game room? A fully customized space the whole family can enjoy? First Things First – Is Your Basement Waterproof? Before we start talking about selecting the right ping pong table and what brands of craft beer you want to store in the basement wet bar, there are a few structural concerns to address. An unfinished basement seems like more work, but it’s actually a better blank canvas for evaluating any potential issues like water damage, mould growth, pest infestations, and so on. If any of these issues are present they absolutely must be addressed right away. Waterproof your basement now, and you won’t have to pay money replacing wet belongings and knocking down drywall to fix it. The last thing you want to do is invest in a swanky renovation that’s not built on a solid foundation. Next – Evaluate the Space Every basement is different. Hopefully you have a bright basement with lots of open space and big windows, but that’s not always going to be the case. How is your ceiling height? You don’t want to have to dig down just to fit a game room, but it is an option. What is the placement like for the furnace room, water hookups, ductwork, electrical panel etc.? These elements will be difficult and/or expensive to move, so you’ll want to plan any layout around these important parts of the basement. Next – Design Time You can come to your contractor with designs in hand, or you can work together to design the perfect layout for the same. If you hope to have games tables in the room, layout is extremely important. For example, a pool table requires at least enough clearance to use a standard cue (58”) comfortably in all directions. If you plan to have other tables in the area, plus seating, plus a bar etc., layout becomes imperative. Finally – Games Time Bring the whole family and figure out what kind of games you would like to see. Pool table, table tennis, foosball, or air hockey? The latest video game consoles like a PS4, WiiU, or Xbox One, built into a customized media centre? Board games like Monopoly and Risk? A remodeled basement will increase the value of your house and will pay off in big bucks when you resell. It is a win-win. The space is big and cozy and with the right games for your family, it will soon become your sanctuary. Get in touch with RenosGroup.ca for your free in-home consultation to get the process started. Or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Transforming Your Basement – On a Budget

March 23, 2016 No Comments

When we start remodeling our houses, it is common to go over budget – especially if you have a budget that is unrealistic to start with. Let’s say you want to construct a basement bar with a sink hookup, recessed lighting, and a solid cherry wood bartop – fantastic! And you want to do it all for $750 or less…not so fantastic. Still, it is possible to transform your basement on a budget. Get Multiple Estimates Do not settle for the first estimate that you get. For one, if you ask around, you may discover that the first estimate was wildly off-base – or you may discover that the first contractor got it exactly right. Just remember, you are not looking for the lowest price – you are looking for the most comprehensive estimate that sets out a plan to achieve your renovation goals at a price that fits your budget. Working with a contractor like RenosGroup.ca, you will be able to get better prices because we can leverage relationships with our trade partners, without sacrificing quality or attention to detail in any way. It’s wise to seek several estimates before finalizing your basement renovation project. This ensures you have a good understanding of market rates and project complexities. Here are some tips: Contact at least 3 reputable contractors: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations, or search online review platforms. Clearly communicate your vision and budget: Provide detailed plans and specifications to ensure accurate estimates. Compare apples to apples: Ensure each estimate covers the same scope of work, materials, and timelines. Ask questions and clarify doubts: Don’t hesitate to ask about qualifications, insurance, warranties, and payment terms. Consider value, not just price: Choose a contractor based on experience, expertise, communication style, and trust, not just the lowest cost. STICK to Your Budget On the one hand, your budget shouldn’t be a loose target. It should be calculated based on the material and labour needs for the project, and going thousands over budget without an explanation is not OK. On the other hand, having the whole project grind to a halt because you can’t afford new subflooring is not ideal, either. You also need to allocate your budget wisely – if there is a limited pool of funds, then fixing up a foundation crack comes before buying that breathtaking $8000 coffee table. Therefore, it is all about balance. If you can’t afford your dream renovation quite yet, there is nothing wrong with saving up for another year until the finances make more sense. Here are some tips to navigate this balancing act: Plan realistically: Account for labor, materials, permits, and potential contingencies (10-15% buffer). Prioritize essentials: Allocate funds to crucial aspects like waterproofing, insulation, and safety features first. Explore cost-saving alternatives: Research DIY options, compare prices, consider repurposing materials, and seek discounts. Communicate openly: Discuss potential changes with your contractor and explore adjustments within your budget. Embrace adaptability: Small modifications, like substituting materials or delaying non-essential features, can save costs. Don’t overstretch: If your dream renovation requires exceeding your budget significantly, consider postponing it until finances align. A successful basement renovation requires not just creativity and planning, but also financial discipline. By following these tips and adapting them to your specific project, you can achieve your vision while staying true to your budget. Always Hire Professionals Always hire professionals. If you go for a company or contractor that has less than adequate experience then it is likely that they might make some mistake which costs a fortune to correct. Don’t throw away good money! Hiring a professional and experienced contractor in Ottawa like RenosGroup will ensure you get the best service, no compromises. You can save money in the long run because you won’t have to worry about disasters down the road caused by poor quality workmanship. Here are some reasons why hiring qualified professionals is crucial for a successful basement renovation: Knowledge and experience: Professionals possess in-depth knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and best practices for basement construction and renovation. Quality craftsmanship: Their expertise ensures proper installation of materials, adherence to construction standards, and overall project quality. Problem-solving skills: Professionals can anticipate and address challenges efficiently, minimizing costly delays and rework. Insurance and warranties: Reputable professionals offer insurance and warranties, providing peace of mind and financial protection. Time efficiency: Their experience and equipment enable them to complete projects efficiently, saving you time and potential frustrations. Choosing the right professional is key. Conduct thorough research, obtain multiple quotes, and verify licenses, insurance, and references before making your decision. While the initial investment may seem higher, the long-term benefits of quality workmanship, project peace of mind, and potential cost savings from avoiding future issues can be significant. Renovations First, Accessories Later Once the main renovations are done, you can always get furnishings down the road when money is not too tight. Buy one piece at a time as the budget allows until your basement is perfect. Soon enough you will have a beautiful basement for all to enjoy and it will be worth every penny you invested. Once the core renovation of your basement is complete, it’s tempting to fill it with furniture and decor right away. While creating your dream space is exciting, remember: Prioritize functionality: Ensure the essential elements like lighting, flooring, and storage are in place before decorating. Start small and be patient. Furnish gradually, focusing on key pieces that fit your budget and needs. Embrace multi-functionality: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes to maximize space and budget. Get creative with DIY: Upcycle and repurpose existing items to add personality and save money. Accessorize strategically: Use accents like plants, artwork, and rugs to personalize your space without breaking the bank. A well-designed basement doesn’t require everything at once. By prioritizing and taking your time, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your style and budget, one step at a time. Remember, Quality Matters While transforming your basement on a budget is crucial, remember that quality should never be compromised. Here’s why: Durability: Opting for cheap materials or labor often leads to costly repairs down the line. Quality materials and proper workmanship ensure longevity and save you money in the long run. Safety: Subpar electrical work, poor waterproofing, or faulty construction can pose serious safety hazards. Investing in qualified professionals and quality materials prioritizes

Planning a Home Accessibility Renovation

March 17, 2016 No Comments

Do you have any elderly loved one, say your aged mom and dad, moving into your house or coming over to spend the summer? Well, just remember that when you came in their lives they made a lot of changes to the interior of the house to make it comfortable for you, babyproofing top to bottom. It’s time to return that favour with mobility renovations to your home! It All Starts With an Estimate Schedule an in-home consultation with RenosGroup.ca We’ll evaluate your home and the needs of your loved one. Together, we’ll determine improvements we can make to your home to make it more accessible and accommodating to your parents. If your mother is in a wheelchair, perhaps you need an exterior wheelchair ramp. It is best to install stairlift, or retrofit an area of the main floor to become a guest bedroom? If your father loves to cook but is suffering from arthritis, we can install hands-free taps and easy-open drawers and cupboards to make the kitchen more accessible. Accessibility Ideas Bathroom Accessibility Non-slip floors Shower stall/bathroom seat Handrails Lowered sink and counters Improved lighting Touch-control faucet Hand-held shower devices Kitchen Accessibility Non-slip floors Lowered countertops Easy handles on drawers and cabinets Touch-control faucet Improved lighting Household Accessibility Wider doorways Improved lighting Non-slip flooring Handrails on stairs You may also consider moving your parents into a coach house. We can retrofit a shed or garage into an accessible living space, or design a coach house from scratch with all customized features for barrier-free living. Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit When we get any home renovations done, it is inevitable that further small repairs surface. If budget it tight, then make a full plan before you get started and sort out where the money will come from. Remember, in the province of Ontario homeowners can take advantage of the Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit. You can claim up to $10,000 of eligible home improvements on your income tax each year and receive 15% in a refund. As a yearly tax credit, you can receive up to $1,500 back each year that your home receives eligible renovations. To help ease the financial burden, for example you could renovate the bathroom this year, the kitchen next year, the exterior in 2018, and so on. During Renovations Also meanwhile the renovation work in underway in your house, make comfortable living arrangements for your family. Many people choose not to live at home during standard renovations to avoid the dust, noise, and disruption. If your loved ones have mobility limitations, then it is even smarter to stay away until the renovations are completed. Stay with family, friends, or in a hotel under the renovations are completed, and you can come how to a beautiful (safe) home in no time. Get in touch today to learn more about our mobility renovation services or to schedule a free in-home consultation!

5 Ideas for Your Basement Remodel

March 9, 2016 No Comments

Are you a homeowner who has a basement that is dark, gloomy, leaky and gives children nightmares? These days, wasted basements are left for horror movies. With the help of a basement renovation contractor in Ottawa, you can remodel your basement and turn into anything you like. The best part is, in most homes the square footage is so big and there are typically few limitations as long as the ceiling is high enough. If you have an unfinished basement, your home is resting on a goldmine. Without further ado, here are five great ideas for your basement remodel that may inspire you to finally finish that basement: Home Office It is the perfect room it you want peace and quiet. You can carpet the floor, paint the room with a productivity-boosting tone like stimulating red or calming blue. Place an oak desk, an ergonomic leather chair, and of course don’t forget the wireless router. If you have clients coming over for meetings, then you can place a room divider and have a couch and a coffee table placed separately. Talk with your contractor about designing custom shelving to maximize the use of space. Band Practice Room If your teenager is in a band but the garage is filled from top to bottom, what better place for band practice than in the basement? Paint the walls, put up some nice band posters, lay down area rugs, and install racks for amps and guitars. Also, if you don’t want your neighbors filing noise complaints against you, ask your contractor to make soundproofing a priority. Dog Sit Area It’s an open space that dogs can’t escape. If you are looking for a stay-at-home job to make some money on the side then this is a great idea. Advertise your business on social media and set up flyers at the nearest grocery store. Lay down tile flooring for easy clean-up and chew-proof the area. You have yourself a fluff fest that pays! Jazz it Up Love clubbing? Well, you can turn your basement into your personal jazz club. Bring down a piano, install mood lighting, decorate the walls with vintage artwork, and offer guests a drink from your custom home bar or wine cellar. Seating options can vary with lounge chairs, bar stools, and more. Game Room Parents are constantly looking for ways to connect with their children. It’s not as easy as it used to be. Turn your basement into a game room and get a couple of old arcade games, a foosball table and board games to keep the children interested. Paint the room real bright and get a comfortable couch and a coffee table. Throw in a couple of huge cushions to sit on and enjoy Saturday nights watching Inside Out and eating popcorn with the family. These were just a few of literally hundreds of possibilities for your finished basement. You can also turn your basement into a guest bedroom or a personal library or literally anything else according to your tastes and hobbies. The whole family can get together and put your heads in to find a way for everyone to enjoy the room and spend quality time together, or give RenosGroup.ca and we’ll discuss the best options for your needs and the space. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today to get your FREE basement renovation estimate.

5 Challenges You Can Expect With Your Remodel

March 2, 2016 No Comments

If you have ever remodeled your house before, you know it can be a stressful but ultimately rewarding process. After all, there is nothing quite like owning the house of your dreams – no matter what it looked like in the beginning. But to get to that you need to go through financial stress, tough choices, unforeseen delays, and more. If you want to get through it all while maintaining you sanity, then keep calm and replace all ill-thoughts with the anticipation of the result.If you understand the challenges homeowners typically encounter and realize that it is totally normal – and completely worth it – the renovation process gets a little bit easier. Here are 5 challenges you can expect with your remodel Noise Home renovations require drilling, hammering, scraping, chiseling, whirring, sawing…it gets noisy. If you don’t think you can handle the noise, ask family or friends if you can stay with them during the renovation process. Even though your home is your sanctuary, it doesn’t feel like it during the renovation process. Just keep faith that it will be over soon and peace and quiet will soon be restored. Mess and Annoyance It happens. You might want to kick all the workers out and just sit in silence in your living room for five minutes. It can be annoying and stressful to have people walking through your home, giant work boot footprints on your floors, dust in the air, and so on. Though we take care to protect your belongings, treat your property with respect, and clean up after ourselves, ultimately this is a construction site – it’s going to be messy. Try not to get hung up on what it looks like in progress, because we promise the final result will be clean, organized, and simply breathtaking. Surprises Accidents happen, there are delays from suppliers, your countertop is delivered with a crack down the middle, and you discover a mould problem in the upstairs bathroom. It can be stressful especially with so much on the line, but take a step back and trust that everything will turn out right in the end. You may not believe it now, but you’ll laugh at the setbacks and surprises one day. Too Many Decisions Under your roof you are the boss and with ownership comes a hundred questions. You will be making decisions you never made before along with the kind of faucets you need, how high shower head must be and many, many other decisions. How do I choose between Winter Linen and Aged Lavenderblush paint? Be prepared and know what you want because at the end of the day, it’s your call. But still do any research if required and ask your contractor for recommendations. Showing it Off When it’s all over, you have to show it off! Which should be fun, but planning a party when you just want to relax in your new space can be a bit of a headache. This can be a challenge, but once the party is on and you get to see the astonished looks on the faces of your family, friends, and neighbours, you’ll know the renovation was worth it. There are many other things that you will come by but whatever it may be, it will be short-lived so take comfort in that. Happy renovations from your friends at RenosGroup.ca! Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Home Renovation Dos and Don’ts

February 25, 2016 No Comments

Looking to transform a cookie-cutter house into the home of your dreams? A home renovation project can make it happen, but only if it’s well-planned and executed with attention to detail by a professional contractor. With that in mind, these are the most important things to consider when planning a home renovation project: Don’t Go in Blind You can imagine any renovation project in your head, but in reality it may not be so easy to execute. What starts as a relatively straightforward kitchen renovation, for example, becomes complicated when mould is revealed behind the walls or you discover that the electrical is not up to code. You might have $50,000 budgeted toward a project, but when roof repair eats up $10,000, a new LVL beam eats up $2,500…the budget disappears fast. Whatever you plan for your home renovation, make sure a) it’s feasible in real life, b) you have the budget to account for any unexpected expenses. Don’t Do It Yourself A home renovation project is not a weekend craft project or a hobby for when you’re bored. It is a serious, time-consuming, intricate process that should be done by pros. When you factor in electrical, plumbing, gas, and other dangerous components, it’s simply not worth the risk. Take a load off your shoulders and let the pros at RenosGroup.ca do the work – you’ll be amazed at the results. Do Be Flexible With Your Budget As we mentioned above, renovations aren’t always straight forward even when you do everything possible to be prepared and cautious. No matter how much time and effort you put into planning the budget, there will always be unexpected costs. We recommend having at least 10%-15% buffer room with your budget so you can avoid delays and headaches and keep the project on track. Do Be Flexible With the Completion Date Deadlines are important, there is no doubt. However, with so many moving parts it is understandable that the project may be delayed. What would you rather – a project completed to perfection but three days late, or a sloppy (perhaps dangerous) project rushed to completion? Sometimes there are delays for safety reasons. Some delays are because of backed up material orders. In many instances, the homeowners themselves are the cause of the delay because of changing their mind or budgetary issues. Be patient – once the renovation is complete and you’re relaxing at home, you won’t give the delay a second thought. Follow these home renovation dos and don’ts and your project will go smoothly. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Planning the Perfect Basement Apartment in Ottawa

February 18, 2016 No Comments

Ottawa Basement Blues? Turn it into a dream apartment! Our guide to Planning the Perfect Basement Apartment is here. There are so many possibilities for your basement. Should you turn it into a guest room for when the in-laws visit? A kids’ playroom to keep them out of your hair? A home gym to finally shed off those unwanted pounds? Or a man cave to get away from it all? These are all attractive options, but have you given thought to turning your basement into an income suite? Adding a basement apartment to your home in Ottawa will provide supplemental income which can go toward the mortgage, help pay for your retirement or your children’s tuition, or even finance a few winter vacations to hot tropical destinations. When planning the perfect basement apartment in Ottawa that will attract the right tenants, there are many things you need to know: Understanding Building Codes in Ottawa You can’t throw a bed in the basement and call it a basement apartment (also known as an income suite or secondary dwelling). For the city to approve the space as a habitable dwelling, it must have a separate entrance, the unit must be fireproofed, and so on. If you try to turn your basement into a separate apartment, you may miss things and be denied a permit. In working with a contractor, you can ensure that the apartment is entirely up to code and get a tenant in more quickly and bring in rental income right away. Enough Natural Light Ask anyone about the downsides of living in a basement apartment, and most people will point to the lack of light as a big concern. The City of Ottawa recognizes this concern for safety reasons (big windows = safe egress), but as a landlord you need to recognize the psychological benefits of light. In planning your basement apartment design, do everything you can to maximize the amount of natural light. Enough Sound Insulation The next biggest complaint people have about living in basement apartments in Ottawa is the sound of people walking (stomping?) overhead. This is a two-way street – you don’t want to hear your upstairs neighbour, and you don’t want your upstairs neighbour hearing your conversations through the air duct, either. Sufficient sound insulation between units isn’t only convenient – it’s required by building codes. Enough Function Most basements have limited square footage, and there is only so much you can with the space as you need to account for posts, electrical panels, the furnace room, perhaps a laundry room etc. If you’re starting from scratch, do everything you can to design a space with maximum function. A two-bedroom apartment will typically rent for more than a one bedroom, but not if the bedrooms are closet-sized, so don’t force it. Planning the perfect basement apartment? Contact us, or give us a call (613)727-9427 to get the process started!

4 Signs You Need a Home Addition

February 4, 2016 No Comments

If your home is not quite right, it can be hard to decide what to do. Do you move? Do you slap a coat of paint on it like putting lipstick on a pig? Do you try a slight remodel while trying to keep the budget in check? Or do you plan a home addition? These 4 signs you need a home addition may help You’ve Run Out of Space Is every morning a fight for the bathroom? Do you feel like sardines in a can trying to prep dinner? Do you have three kids stuffed into one bedroom, with an extra in a crib in the master? A home addition can solve all these problems. Whether your home addition includes a new master suite, new bedrooms for the kids, an extra bathroom, a bonus family room (or all of the above!) a home addition You Love the Location, but Not the Home You love your neighbours, you love the local park, and you love the nearby bakery that makes the world’s best lemon tarts. But the home is a bit of a disaster. So what do you do? If you don’t want to go through the uncertainty of hunting for a new house, the tension of negotiation, the panic of packing, the stress of moving…home additions can give your current home a new lease on life. You get all the benefits of a new house, while getting to stay in the place you have come to call home. You Want to Add to the Resale Value of Your Home If you’ve got the long-term picture in mind, then with every renovation and home improvement project you should keep the resale value in mind. How much of a priority it is depends on how long you plan to stay in your home, but a home addition can certainly add dramatically to the value of your home. You’re Stuck in a Time Warp If your home décor looks like it comes straight off the set of Bewitched or even Family Ties, it’s a clear sign that your home needs an update. Even though retro is back in style, cheap Formica counters, wood panelling, and peeling wallpaper are definitely not all the rage. While there are many options ranging from a quick facelift to a total home addition, updating your house’s style can be an opportunity to solve other issues at the same time. If these or any other signs apply, give RenosGroup.ca a call and we’ll guide you through the entire renovation project until your home is perfect. To learn more signs you need a home addition, please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, or you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

The Top Home Design Trends

January 28, 2016 No Comments

There are ranges of design trends that we predict will reign supreme, here are some top home design trends Looking forward to doing some interior design? Well then, you are in luck. There are ranges of design trends that we predict will reign supreme. Let’s take a moment to review what some of these styles are, and go into how they work within your home. In addition, we will consider where these things can be placed for maximum effect. The Return Of The Accent Piece Returning for another year in the spotlight, the accent piece comes with a slight variation. Accent pieces made by hand are taking central stage, showing off artisan work designed to provide significance and quality to any space. As always, the size, texture, and location of this accent piece is completely dependent on what you are interested in and the room you are accenting. Accent pieces can really set a room apart and are a great way to get an exclusive look at an affordable price. Consider Encaustic Tiling Encaustic tiles are unique in that they are made of clay instead of a glaze. The benefit of this is a slightly different texture as well as an incredible range of patterns and colouring. Encaustic tiles are finding their primary use in bathrooms, where they typically fit in quite nicely as a colourful flooring that juxtaposes against whites and muted colours of everything else. Natural Fibre Rugs With Texture Fine rugs are heading out in popularity. Taking their place are rugs and carpets with definable texture. Made from a number of different fibres, these carpets are typically bumpy and help to add much needed texture. They are most popularly used in living room spaces over hard wood floors. And Of Course… Art Deco Who can say no to art deco? Homeowners are choosing art deco designs for smaller spaces, utilizing intricate geometric patterning and a brash visual style to create a unique space for every room. When done right, art deco can transform a space, turning it into something truly unique. Salvaged Wood Throw away your pallet stools/cabinets and consider an alternative to the salvaged wood furniture movement. With different cuts of the tree providing a range of texture types and contrasting rough edges with smooth surfaces, salvaged wood furniture is simple to the point of basic, rugged, and fantastic looking when placed in the home. This increasingly popular form of salvaged wood is being used in home with little clutter, becoming the accent piece in any room. If you’re ready for a home renovation, don’t hesitate to Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 for a free in-home consultation to start the process. Whether you want to follow the trends or make a style that’s all your own, our home renovation pros can make it happen.

Steel Door vs. Fibreglass Door Replacement

January 21, 2016 No Comments

Your front door is the focal point of the entranceway to your home. A door that is in poor condition or lets in cold air during the winter can really take away from all the hard work you put into making your front yard and entrance look clean and inviting. For homeowners in Ottawa, fiberglass entrance doors are becoming popular because of their durability and their aesthetics. In older homes, steel entry doors were commonly used because they are sturdy and affordable. If you are thinking about replacing your entry door, here are the pros and cons of steel doors vs fiberglass doors: Pros of Fibreglass Doors Fibreglass doors are lightweight compared to their steel counterparts, making them easier to install. These doors are highly resistant to dents and warping. They are also energy efficient and can help you save money on your energy bills. They offer a sleek wooden look that is very desirable. Cons of Fibreglass Doors If your fiberglass door is constantly exposed to direct sunlight, delamination can occur. Delamination is the failing of the bonding between the insulation and the door skin. If your door frame is not the standard door size, you will need to have a manufacturing professional mold the fiberglass to fit your door frame’s shape, which will cost you extra money. Pros of Steel Doors Steel doors are a less expensive option than fibreglass. They are, of course, made of steel so they are very solid and secure. Steel doors are also energy efficient and will help you save money on your energy bills. Experts routinely report that upgrading to a steel door often has the best ROI (return on investment) of any home improvement project. Cons of Steel Doors Unfortunately, steel doors can face frequent scratching that can lead to rust, and paint chipping which will require routine maintenance from the homeowner. About once a year, you can lubricate the hinges with a small spray of grease or silicone. Steel doors conduct the temperature of the outside air, so the door will be hot to the touch during the hot summer months, and cold in the winter. While this may seem concerning, steel doors actually provide excellent insulation for the home. When trying to decide between picking a fiberglass door or a steel door as your replacement, the first thing you should consider is your personal preference. Both doors offer similar pros, but there are big difference in their cons and how they look. Give us a call and we’d be happy to discuss the steel door vs fiberglass door debate. We’re here to help with all of your home renovation and home addition needs in Ottawa! Please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

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