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Wheelchair navigating ramp and accessible doorway illustrating mobility-friendly home renovations.

10 Ways to Make your Renovations Mobility Friendly

June 4, 2014 No Comments

Living in a small home with little space can be difficult, especially if someone you live with someone who has mobility issues. If you have been considering moving to a new home to better accommodate a family member you should reconsider, as it is far easier to work with a renovations expert to customize your current home to meet your mobility needs. Here are 10 ways to make home and bathroom renovations mobility friendly: 1. Widen your doorways: This is a must to make moving from room to room easier for those in a wheelchair. It also works well for walkers and even crutches. 2. Adjust counter levels: By adjusting the counter levels individuals who are wheelchair bound are able to care for themselves and maintain their privacy when tending to their personal hygiene needs. One of the most affordable bathroom renovations. 3. Provide more light: This will increase visibility and help family members with mobility issues move throughout the home without fear of injury. 4. Install comfortable handles: When added to drawers and cabinets comfortable handles are a simple renovation you can add to any room especially kitchens and bathrooms. 5. Provide Handrails: Handrails are required on both sides of stairs to make it safer and easier for those who are still able to walk on their own to move up and down stairs with confidence. 6. Add reflective non-slip tape: Make it easier to spot the edge of each step or groove allowing people to move without fear of falling. Reflective non-slip can be used to indicate a change in flooring material such as going from carpet to tile; this can help prevent slipping. 7. Make flooring safer: The proper non slip flooring as well as floor covers will allow people to avoid slips and falls which are one of the most common accidents to occur in homes. 8. Use a chair for bathing: By installing a bath chair bathing will become easier and safer for people to shower independently, ultimately maintaining their privacy. 9. Bathroom handrails: Handrails are simple bathroom renovations in Ottawa homes that will make it easy to get in and out of the tub independently as well as to sit and stand when using the toilet. 10. Hand held shower devices: Will increase independence so people can shower privately without the need for assistance. These affordable home and bathroom renovations help Ottawa home owners have mobility friendly homes with little fuss or muss. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Eco-friendly renovations with low VOC paints and a paint roller.

6 Ways to Make your Renovations Eco-Friendly

May 30, 2014 No Comments

Just because you are working with a professional renovations team in Ottawa doesn’t mean you can’t find eco-friendly ways to improve your home. Here are six ways you can make your renovations eco-friendly: Reuse You know the term “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle“; well it now includes “Rethink”. When adding professional renovations to your home consider ways you can reduce the amount of garbage you are sending to the landfill by rethinking what you have to tear out and what you can reuse. A kitchen is a perfect example. If your cabinets are sound you can reface them for the same effect without the need to completely tear everything out. You can also do the same for bathroom vanities. Look at items such as old doors and consider if they can be made into something like a headboard or even a table. Rethinking the way you look at items in your home can really reduce garbage as well as allow you to reuse items that will save you money. Sustainability This is the new buzz word of the home decor world. Look for sustainable materials such as bamboo and cork floors, and recycled glass for countertops or back splash and bathroom tiles to cut down on the depletion of our natural resources. Local Working with a local professional renovations team from the Ottawa area, as well as local suppliers will not only help your local economy but also lessen transportation demands. This in turn reduces the amount of fossil fuels involved in the delivery of your goods as well as the staff traveling to and from your job site. This then reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Reduce You can reduce your energy and water consumption by choosing eco-friendly fixtures and HVAC equipment as well as Energy Star Appliances, windows and doors. Look for low flow toilets and shower heads for the bathroom and energy efficient appliances for the kitchen and laundry room. Not only is this good for the environment, but it will also save you a lot of money on heating/air conditioning and energy. Low VOC Ask your professional renovations team to use low VOC paints and finishes to keep your home environment free of toxins. Use natural materials in carpeting such as wool. Think Small Consider the finite details and make sure your professional renovations team is using eco-friendly light bulbs, sealing up leaky doors and windows with caulking and saving materials wherever possible. These six considerations will keep your renovations eco-friendly and help save the planet. To reach out, schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Updated bathroom design with walk-in shower, deep sink, and stylish fixtures.

5 Tips for Updating the Outdated Bathroom

May 13, 2014 No Comments

Many home owners tend to overlook the bathroom, and end up leaving this renovation until the end. However, having an updated bathroom can add a lot of style and class to your home. A luxurious bathroom can offer a welcome oasis at the end of the day and make mornings more pleasurable when you have all the luxuries of a fine hotel. The bathroom renovations Ottawa home owners require should include these five high design details: 1. Eco-Friendly Choices When designing your bathroom, you want to ensure you are using eco-friendly fixture which can include low flow toilets and shower heads. There are many options that allow you to choose the flush required for “liquid” or “solids” and luxurious shower heads that not only look gorgeous but will provide a very satisfying shower experience. You will not only be helping the environment, but will be saving money by cutting down on your water usage which can lead to big savings annually. Water-Wise Fixtures: Ditch the outdated and embrace low-flow toilets and showerheads. You’d be surprised by the luxurious options available now, offering powerful sprays and sleek designs while using significantly less water. Bonus: dual-flush toilets let you choose the right amount of water for the job, further reducing waste. Green Cleaning Powerhouse: Skip the harsh chemicals and switch to eco-friendly cleaning products made from natural ingredients. Not only are they better for your health and the environment, but they can also be just as effective at keeping your bathroom sparkling clean. Every Drop Counts: Be a leak detective! Fix those pesky dripping faucets promptly to prevent precious water from going down the drain. It’s a small action that makes a big difference for your water bill and the planet. Don’t forget the everyday choices! Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products made from natural ingredients, and fix leaky faucets promptly to prevent wasted water. 2. Stylish Fixtures Avoid going for the standards and seek out fixtures with distinct style. Bathtubs are being designed for comfort as well as focal points for the bathroom. From reconstructed claw foot tubs to stunning waterfall designs, your tub should set the tone for your bathroom. Even toilets offer less utilitarian designs that are built not only for style but also for comfort. Sit in the display tub and on the display toilet to make sure they are comfortable. Go Beyond the Standard: Skip the builder-grade offerings and explore unique options that match your individual taste. Clawfoot tubs add timeless elegance, waterfall showers create a dramatic statement, and unique vanities can become the focal point of the space. Comfort Matters: Looking good is half the battle, but feeling good is just as important. Sit in display models of tubs and toilets before making your final decision. Your bathroom should be a sanctuary of relaxation, not just a beautiful showroom. Function Meets Fashion: Don’t let style compromise practicality. Choose fixtures that look amazing but also cater to your daily needs and lifestyle. Craving a deep soak? Look for bathtubs designed for indulgence. Need a spacious shower for invigorating mornings? Prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Style doesn’t have to come at the expense of functionality. Choose fixtures that not only look amazing but also fit your needs and lifestyle perfectly. 3. Deep Sinks Deep sinks are the must-have for bathroom renovations in Ottawa. They have taken over from the vessel sink craze as they offer a luxurious detail as well as space to take care of your needs. Vessel sinks are still available, but they tend to date themselves quite quickly. Spacious Sanctuary: Replace shallow bowls with the luxurious depth of a modern sink. Deep sinks offer ample space for washing hands, soaking laundry, or filling large containers without the dreaded splash-over. Practical Elegance: Deep sinks aren’t just about aesthetics; they offer increased functionality. The extra depth means less mess on your countertops and easier handling of larger items. Timeless Trend: Unlike vessel sinks, which can quickly appear outdated, deep sinks offer a classic and versatile design that complements various bathroom styles. Their popularity ensures they’ll remain a stylish choice for years to come. So, if you’re looking for a functional and trendy upgrade for your Ottawa bathroom, consider diving into the deeper delights of a modern deep sink. You’ll be surprised by the difference it makes! 4. Artistic Mirror Mirrors are another design detail that can add sparkle and glamour to the bathroom. Beveled details, beautifully carved frames and additional features such as lighting for applying makeup and shaving make getting ready in the morning less of a chore. You can also consider magnified pull mirrors for more “intimate” beauty tasks such as plucking your eye brows. Embrace Intricate Details: Beveled edges, beautifully carved frames, or even mosaic tiles surrounding the mirror can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. These details act as miniature works of art, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Light Up Your Routine: Consider mirrors with integrated lighting, perfect for applying makeup or shaving with precision. This not only creates a well-lit space for these tasks but also adds a touch of luxury and modernity. Zoom In for Detail: Don’t forget the practical side! Include a magnified pull-out mirror for intricate tasks like eyebrow plucking or applying eyeliner. This ensures optimal visibility and precision while maintaining a sleek and integrated look. By incorporating these elements, your bathroom mirror transforms from a simple reflection tool into a captivating piece of art that elevates both the style and functionality of your space. Remember, your mirror can be a focal point, reflecting your unique personality and enhancing your daily routines. 5. Shower Showers are also becoming focal points for bathroom renovations. Open showers that do not require doors, tubs or curtains allow more space and are often designed to accommodate two. Double shower heads, steam features, lighting and even music are all part of the modern luxury shower experience. Embrace Openness: Opt for open showers that eliminate doors, tubs, and curtains. This creates

Modern kitchen renovation with red accent wall, stainless steel range hood, and wooden kitchen island.

7 Creative Ways to Improve Your Kitchen with Renovations

April 16, 2014 No Comments

Ottawa home owners seek kitchen renovations for many purposes, from sheer aesthetics to a need for more space or storage. Here are seven creative ways to improve your kitchen with renovations: 1. Add an Island When you are in desperate need of a more functional kitchen an island can resolve a number of issues. You can gain plenty of much needed work space, add a place to sit and chat with a few bar stools and can even add appliances such as a cook top, dishwasher or sink. An island is truly one of the best ways to add storage and make a disjointed kitchen more functional. 2. Update your Counters Updating kitchen counters are perfect simple upgrade renovation that home owners love. Granite is ever popular but there are a number of stunning, less expensive, man-made materials you can choose as well. New counter tops are a simple and affordable way to improve the look of your kitchen while providing maintenance free work surfaces that will last. 3. Cabinet Re-facing Not everyone knows that you don’t need to replace all of your counters for a new kitchen look, instead you can always choose cabinet re-facing. Cabinet re-facing is a great way to give your kitchen the face lift it needs without the expensive price tag or the large mess. 4. Reconfiguration Some kitchens can prove to be terribly dysfunctional and poorly planned. Having a bad kitchen layout can make it impossible to cook without bumping into someone or something. A good kitchen layout can not only make your kitchen more stylish and functional but can also increase the value of your home. Although simple upgrades can be nice some kitchens require an entire overhaul. 5. Backsplash and Flooring If you are generally happy with your kitchen’s layout and cabinets but feel it needs a little more flare, a new back splash in hand with new flooring can help tie-in your surfaces well together. With good counter tops as a jumping off point you can create a more finished look that will make you smile while you are cooking. 6. Finishing Touches Even the newest of kitchens can sometimes appear unfinished if you haven’t paid attention to the finite details. Adding recessed cabinet lighting, perfectly matched handles, stunning chandeliers, shiny new sinks, and of course new appliances completes a kitchen with beautiful finishing touches. 7. The Whole Nine Yards Everyone wants their dream home, and by starting with renovating your kitchen you’re taking one more step closer to your dream. Kitchen renovations give you a complete new look from top to bottom custom designed for your taste and budget. Seven kitchen renovations Ottawa homeowners can opt for from simple to complicated. To reach out, schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Contractor tools and blueprints for Ottawa home renovations.

7 Things to Look for When Hiring a Contractor

April 9, 2014 No Comments

When you’re ready to plan those long awaited renovations, you want everything to go as smoothly as possible. That means when hiring contractors you want to be certain you are looking for all the right qualifications and qualities. Here are a few things to look for when hiring a contractor in Ottawa: Testimonials or References: The internet can really help you narrow down your list. One of the things you can do is search “contractors Ottawa” to narrow down your options by looking for websites that feature positive reviews. Testimonials speak volumes about how well a contractor works and the level of service they provide. You can also ask them for references. Before and After: You can also look for before and after shots on a contractors website. Seeing results is always an excellent incentive to go with someone who takes pride in their work and is happy to show it. Experience: Even with photos and testimonials it is nice to know your contractor has plenty of experience. Experience not only means knowledge, it also often means they have had years to forge strong relationships with vendors and they can get quality materials at excellent prices. Estimates: You want someone who will come out and assess your space to give you an estimate for your project. Never go into a project blind. You might find out the hard way just how expensive something can get without a budget and estimate in place. Work Ethic: If you are in contact with a contractor and you have difficulty getting them to return your calls, this does not bode well. You want someone with a strong work ethic who will make themselves available. This will speak to their dependability as well. Customer Service: Customer service is extremely important quality to look for when hiring a contractor. You want to work with someone who takes the time to explain everything to you and who will let you know what is happening. You want to be involved in the process and be consulted when key decisions have to be made. Ask them to explain their approach and the process they use on projects so you are comfortable with the way things will work. Timeline: Last but not least, make sure they can provide you with an estimated date of completion as well as a timeline. Looking for these qualities will help you find a contractor who is trustworthy, knowledgeable and experienced. Please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

White kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances with blue tiled backsplash, RenosGroup kitchen renovation.

Your Next Kitchen Renovation, Avoid It Being A Financial Devastation

March 31, 2014 No Comments

Kitchen renovations get complicated, learning the risks can help you to steer clear of the wrong contractor Hiring contractors from Kijiji can lower your up front costs, but that’s just it…..in many cases they end up costing you more. Avoid kitchen renovation financial devastation. Too many stories out there of contractors disappearing after collecting the initial payment or having pay another contractor to come in to fix the first contractors mistakes. Going with the professional is the safe way to keep you costs down and keeping your home in one piece. A reputable kitchen renovation company will be able to deal with any issues as they arise and they typically offer a wider range of services. Kitchen renovations are our specialty, our carpenters enjoy these projects the most. We have a network of excellent interior designers, plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians Kitchen renovation companies with expensive showrooms typically push you to spend more and many don’t offer free site visit and quote. The cost difference between the Kijiji contractor and high end kitchen showrooms leaves a middle area where homeowners aren’t being serviced. Ironically RenosGroup fits right into the middle area. Our pricing aims to be that “middle quote”. Free in home quotes allows us to be more accurate in our price by looking for potential problem areas while at the client’s home. Getting accurate measurements is also quite helpful in keeping our quotes accurate. We offer a detailed, informative and easy to use online product showroom, you can shop from the comfort of your own home If anyone in the household has any kind of mobility limitations there are many new products and services that can make life much easier. When it comes to mobility renovations you really want to ensure you hire a company that knows all of the ADA specifications. RenosGroup is experienced in installing ADA compliant products and can handle any customizations Don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to get your free in home consultation for your new kitchen renovation.

Finished basement living space with bar area, staircase, and modern design trends.

5 Basement Remodeling Trends

March 27, 2014 No Comments

Basement remodeling in Ottawa is rising in popularity for a number of reasons. Basement renovations are a far more affordable way to add much needed living space as they do not involve costs associated with additions. They also offer an excellent cost value ratio at 77 percent*. This is up 10.7 percent compared to 2012 and is expected to continue to rise in the coming future. With this in mind here are five basement remodeling trends: Modern Basement Living Spaces Instead of a opting for a perfectly polished look homeowners are now opting to go with a loft look for refinished basement family rooms. Traditionally associated with above ground rooms and spaces in renovated industrial buildings you can get the basement loft look by leaving exposed your support beams exposed and by adding polished cement floors. If you live in an older home discover what lies beneath the floors and ceiling to add charm and character. You’ll want to work with a contractor who can tell you what will and will not work to keep things warm and cozy. Spa Bathroom With more and more people desperate for “me” time, the basement spa bathroom is becoming ever more appealing. You can create a truly luxurious bathroom with high end finishes, light fixtures and tubs, as well as massive shower “rooms” complete with multiple shower heads, lights and music. Some people are even adding a private sauna or a steam feature in their showers. The Dream Laundry Room Perhaps an influence from the stunning designs of laundry appliances, the dream laundry room is a new and exciting project for basement remodeling more and more Ottawa home owners are embracing. From exceptional washer and dryer sets to high end finishes such as slate floors and granite counter tops, laundry rooms are becoming a selling feature of the modern home. Master Suite Why confine yourself to a small mediocre master bedroom and a shared bathroom when you can create a stunning master suite in the basement. Ample walk in closet space, dressing rooms and of course an exclusively custom designed en suite turns a master suite basement remodel something many Ottawa home owners desire. Home Theater Last but not least the home theater is the ultimate basement remodeling project Ottawa homeowners love. With complete state of the art equipment, peek a boo screens, wireless surround sound speakers and theater seating families will love this remodel. With basement renovations in Ottawa becoming more popular these five remodel ideas are sure to give you some inspiration for your basement remodel. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 * https://www.realtor.org/field-guides/field-guide-to-remodeling

Damaged drywall behind shower surround with mold and structural damage.

Why You Shouldn’t Install Drywall Behind Shower Walls

October 19, 2013 No Comments

A common problem we tend to run into a lot at RenosGroup is drywall in wet areas. Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t install drywall behind shower walls. While installing shower surrounds and bathtub walls over drywall is technically possible, it’s a recipe for disaster. That’s because drywall is not a material that’s intended to get wet. In fact, drywall actively absorbs moisture – which causes it to lose its structural integrity. That’s terrible news for the framework of your home, as the compromised drywall can let moisture seep in and wreak havoc. Read on to learn more about what drywall does to shower walls, as well as alternative materials that work far better behind shower surrounds. Drywall and Moisture: A Dangerous Mix To understand why drywall absorbs moisture, you need to learn a bit more about the material. Drywall consists of sheets of gypsum plaster held together by fiberglass. It’s used to finish interiors by placing a solid structure over the insulation and plank walls. Drywall is a porous material by nature, which means that it contains tiny holes capable of absorbing moisture and housing bacteria/mold. That’s why drywall is exclusively installed in areas that aren’t meant to ever get wet, such as your living room or bedroom walls. Whenever a flood occurs in a home that has drywall, the drywall will absorb the standing water – which then becomes a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria and mold. If left unchecked, the mold can cause severe structural damage to your home, costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. The same thing happens whenever you attempt to install a shower or a bathtub surround over drywall. The drywall will absorb the moisture, become compromised, grow mold, and even spread the moisture elsewhere inside your framework. It’s basically like a mini-flood occurring in your home, which you don’t want. That’s not all either, as it gets worse. Beyond absorbing any standing water it comes into contact with, drywall will also absorb any moisture in the air. That means whenever you take a hot shower or bath, the humidity released will seep into your drywall and compromise its integrity. A Visual Demonstration of What Can Happen The following are a series of photos we took on a real job. The homeowner had drywall installed behind a shower surround, and look what happened. The moisture ultimately compromised the drywall, causing it to rot and form dangerous mold. It then spread to the rest of the wall, causing structural damage to the home. We took photos to convey the dangers of using standard drywall behind the shower and bathtub. Trust us, the last thing you want to have to deal with is massive structural damage to your home, as the repair costs are excessively steep. Alternative Materials for Your Bathroom Walls Now that you know why drywall is such a no-no for your bathroom, what materials should you use instead? There are quite a few options, including a modified version of traditional drywall called ‘green board.’ Green / Blue Drywall Green/blue board, is a drywall that’s been covered with coloured paper (to distinguish it from regular drywall) coated with a protective wax for moisture Denshield Denshield is an excellent alternative when traditional drywall doesn’t cut it. Denshield has a water-proof front with a moisture protect back and sides. Similar to green/blue board it has a drywall interior. If you can select a material to use behind a shower or tub surround, Denshield is an excellent choice. With it in place, you can run the shower all you want without worrying about mold forming inside your walls. Concrete Backing Board A cement or concrete backing board is another option for your tiled areas. Typically, builders use concrete backing whenever they need to form a base for ceramic tile. A concrete backing board is an excellent option if your shower or bathtub surround features ceramic tiles. Grout and mortar also easily adhere to concrete backing boards, making them an ideal material to use. Waterproofing Membranes Membranes are now one of the more popular options today. They even come in handy if the space you’re converting into a bathroom wasn’t one before, like a closet. Since the builders didn’t intend the walls in a closet to get wet, they likely used regular drywall. In this scenario, you would add a Schluter moisture-blocking membrane to avoid installing brand-new materials. What’s that? A moisture-blocking membrane is a thin felt back water-proofing material strip that prevents moisture from entering the drywall. If done correctly the membranes are the best option and have become the most popular form of ensuring your wet areas are sealed and mold free. A downside is that these membranes tend to run on the pricey side. Trust RenosGroup With Your Bathroom Remodel Understanding why drywall isn’t a suitable material for bathroom walls is essential knowledge for all homeowners, so please share this article on your social media accounts to help get the word out. You never know; you may save someone thousands of dollars in repairs by showing them this article. If you want to remodel your bathroom walls in Ottawa, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at RenosGroup. Our licensed team of professionals will install beautiful shower and bathtub surrounds for you, and we always use appropriate materials that won’t damage your home. To schedule renovations, you can either fill out our online form or call us at (613) 727-9427.

Air conditioning unit and maintenance tips for Ottawa homeowners

Air Conditioning Tips

July 5, 2013 No Comments

Happy Friday everyone! This weekend looks like its going to be very hot with a lot of humidity…I hope you have an air conditioner. Although, we focus on kitchen and bathroom renovations, I could not let these air conditioning tips go unread. Probably the easiest and most important tip is to make sure you change the filter…but please read-on and use these air conditioning tips and save your money!! Air-Conditioning Tips: 9 Things You Need to Know Keeping your AC in shape will help you stay cool and save dough 1. Dirty filters kill your AC’s efficiency, so install a new one every month during the cooling season for central and window units (or clean them if you’ve got the washable type). Look for the filter’s minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, which ranges from 1 to 12 for home AC units; the higher the number, the better filtration it provides (and the more energy needed to pull air through it, so balance air-quality concerns with energy costs). 2. Ducts can lose up to 30 percent of airflow through leaks, and window AC units are notoriously tough to seal properly. Find leaks using the old “smoke trick”: For window units, light a stick of incense and hold it where the unit and the window frame meet; for central AC, hold the stick near duct connections. If the smoke blows around, you’ve got leakage. For ductwork, use foil tape to seal small gaps and duct mastic for larger ones; for window AC units, stuff foam between the device and the window frame, taping as needed. 3. There’s no need to blast the AC at full tilt while you’re at work. For central units, install a programmable thermostat that lets you set higher temps when you’re gone and cooler temps when you’re home. Newer window units have built-in timers and adjustable thermostats, or you can buy a timer at any home store for $10 to $20; just make sure it matches your device’s voltage. Unless you’re going on vacation, don’t shut off the system; otherwise, the air compressor will need to work harder to cool your house later. 4. Ducts in hot attics or crawl spaces should be wrapped to keep the air within them cool. You can use spray foam, batt insulation, or rigid-foam insulation. Seal batt and rigid insulation with foil tape (not duct tape). For tight spaces, wraps like Reflectix offer some degree of insulation. 5. A central AC system’s air compressor and condenser are usually located outside the house, close to your foundation. It works best when there’s about 24 inches of clear space in all directions, so get rid of nearby shrubs, tall grass, leaves, and hanging branches. 6. Extend the life of your AC system by keeping blinds or shades down during the day; you can also install awnings to shield south-facing windows from intense sun. Consider running the AC in conjunction with floor or ceiling fans to circulate cooled air more effectively. 7. The dealer who installed your central AC (or one you find locally) should put you on a yearly cleaning schedule that goes beyond just cleaning the filters. Schedule this checkup before the cooling season starts (or do it now if you didn’t do it earlier this year), and make sure it includes the following tasks: cleaning and inspecting coils; cleaning or replacing filters; adjusting and replacing fan belts; lubricating motors and bearings; cleaning and checking blowers and fans; inspecting controls and safeties; checking refrigerant and pressures; and verifying operating temperatures. 8. Shutting too many interior doors causes central AC systems to go out of balance, meaning there’s less airflow in the entire house. If you want some privacy, keep doors slightly ajar instead. 9. Federal laws require AC units to be a lot more efficient than they were just 10 years ago. For central AC, look for the seasonal energy-efficiency ratio, or SEER; for window units, the measure is simply called the energy-efficiency ratio, or EER. The standards mandate a SEER of 13 and an EER of 8, but devices with higher numbers will cost less to operate. Please don’t wait to give us a call at (613) 727-9427 , for your next home renovation project. You can also use this form to request a free in-home consultation and estimate.

Omega cabinetry with remote control lock for kitchen renovation and security.

Remote Control Cabinet Lock – Kitchen Renovation Idea

March 12, 2013 No Comments

A definite consideration for your next kitchen renovation………A perfect solution for those who have a real hard time controlling those pesky late night snack urges ! Omega Cabinetry now offers a remote control cabinet lock for its cabinetry to protect personal documents, valuables, alcohol and cleaning supplies. A single keypad operates up to 12 locking devices. The locking device is shown on the company’s Cayhill cabinetry in maple with Magnolia finish. Omega Cabinetry once marketed a remote control cabinet lock intended to protect cabinets storing personal documents, valuables, alcohol, and cleaning supplies. This unique feature proved popular among homeowners looking to add an extra layer of safety to their kitchen. How does this work? A single keypad may control up to 12 locking mechanisms, making it simple to manage several cabinets. The locking mechanism is discreetly integrated into the cabinetry, resulting in a uniform and beautiful appearance. While Omega no longer appears to provide this specific product, it’s worth contacting them directly to learn more about their current offers or similar alternatives. They may have different solutions that can satisfy your requirements. If you want to learn more about remote control cabinet locks or other kitchen makeover ideas, then do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of specialists can provide helpful insights and advice to help you construct your ideal kitchen. Update: Omego no longer seems to offer this product, please call them for more info. Here is a link to their previous offering…. To learn more about remote control cabinet locks, or anything about kitchens don’t hesitate to get in touch, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Wheelchair near staircase illustrating mobility renovations for accessibility and independence.

How to Remodel a Bath for Accessibility

March 4, 2013 No Comments

An architect explains how he plans to remodel a bathroom for accessibity by Duncan McPherson Remodeling an existing house presents many design challenges. Modern living requires different functions and spaces than a house built 50, 20, or even 10 years ago. Designing homes and remodels that consider long-term livability has become a greater priority in residential design as we embrace an aging baby-boomer population. Whether you’re looking to age in place in your current home, to accommodate aging family members, or simply to consider resale value and appeal to a broad market, issues of wheelchair access and accessible design are critical. Even if you don’t require accessible spaces today, you can design spaces that are functional, comfortable, and flexible enough to accommodate any accessibility needs that arise in the future. Recently, I was charged with redesigning the existing full bath in the Fine Homebuilding Project House to create a more accessible master suite. This 1950s ranch has a floor plan common to many homes of a similar style and vintage. By looking at the problems with the existing bath and the solutions in the new bath, you’ll easily be able to recognize the flaws and opportunities in your own projects. Identify problems with the existing bathroom The existing bathroom has several problems. A narrow doorway leads to a claustrophobic space only 3-1⁄2 ft. wide at its widest point. All the services—the toilet, the tub, and the sink—would be extremely difficult to access if the user had limited mobility or were confined to a wheelchair. Adding grab bars to improve the functionality of this bath would be a hit-or-miss proposition because the blocking is missing from the appropriate locations. Also, despite the need for it, the bathroom doesn’t contain any storage for toiletries or towels. A A bathtub is difficult and dangerous to navigate into and out of if mobility is limited. B A narrow doorway inhibits easy access into and out of the bathroom, especially if a thick threshold is in place. C A narrow floor plan prevents wheelchair-bound users from being able to turn around. D A toilet in a narrow nook without grab bars is difficult to access from a seated position. E A linen closet is outside the bathroom, but storage should be integrated into the bath space. F The hallway is too narrow to navigate easily in a wheelchair and is unnecessary in the new master-suite plan. Create an accessible plan with integrated solutions The first step in designing flexible spaces is determining which design elements need to be included initially and which can be installed later if they are needed. For example, building a bathroom with access to a 5-ft. clear turnaround area that improves wheelchair maneuverability should be incorporated initially, because it would be difficult and expensive to make accommodations for such a space later. Below are the elements that make this new bathroom accessible while still maintaining a comfortable, style-appropriate aesthetic. A Doorways have a minimum 32-in. clear width to accommodate wheelchairs. B Swinging doors with levers, not knobs, are used instead of pocket doors because they’re less challenging to open from a seated position. C Hallways and passageways are 48 in. wide to improve access. D A 5-ft. clear turnaround circle integrated into the floor plan of the bath is best. If this isn’t possible, create a turnaround circle just outside the bathroom, as shown at right. E A removable shower screen/partition provides better access to the shower if necessary in the future. F Blocking for a future fold-down seat is integrated into the shower wall adjacent to the shower controls. Typical seat height is 18 in. above the floor. Design an elevation that can adapt to change The psychological influence a home can have on its residents is profound. Having a fully accessible bathroom before it is needed can be a looming reminder of aging and the loss of mobility. Well-designed spaces can create more positive responses, however. Like all properly designed accessible spaces, this bathroom is meant to be adaptable to change. For example, a vanity that is in tune with the modern style of the bath is built so that its middle cabinet can be removed, allowing easier wheelchair access to the sink. Until that need is necessary, the vanity reads as a contemporary cabinet fit for any home. A Vanity provides plentiful storage that can be used from both seated and standing positions. B Vanity is built so that the middle cabinet is removable to allow for knee space below the sink. C Shower valves, light switches, and thermostat controls should be from 38 in. to 48 in. above the floor. D There is less than a 1⁄2-in. transition between the bathroom floor and the shower floor to enable roll-in access. E Blocking is integrated into the walls so that grab bars can be installed around the toilet and shower in the future. Typical grab-bar height is from 33 in. to 36 in. F A linen cabinet integrates additional storage opportunities in the bath where none had existed previously. G Two light fixtures mounted at eye level provide adequate illumination at the vanity. Drawings: Duncan McPherson From Fine Homebuilding228 , pp. 90-94 May 17, 2012 To learn more about how to remodel a bath for accessibility, don’t hesitate to get in touch, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Accessible bathroom design with freestanding tub and wooden towel ladder.

Storage Place in your Bathroom

March 2, 2013 No Comments

What a fantastic renovation product for those who can’t find any storage place in your bathroom …….which we ALL know is NOT unusual. This product can even be used in a kitchen pantry for even more storage capability. ODL Inc. has invented On Hand In-Door Storage and Communication system. The system boasts storage on one side and decoration and communication opportunities on the opposite side. Built into an interior door, the storage side has adjustable shelving and are reversible. It offers a glass marker board on the other side which has a removable white deco board that can be personalized and used as a marker board using dry-erase markers. As you can see this can be used in many areas in the house where you need more storage……… To learn more about ideas for storage place in your bathroom, don’t hesitate to get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

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