Getting Started with Home Renovations in Ottawa

January 11, 2021 No Comments

Will you be renovating your home in Ottawa this year? Don’t know where to start? Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by the idea of working on their home. It can be a lot to take on when you don’t know where to focus your attention (and budget) first. Whether you’re considering a major overhaul or just a few upgrades, here are some tips to help make the entire home renovation process as simple and hassle-free as possible. Figure Out Why You’re Renovating First, it’s a good idea to get crystal clear on what exactly needs to be renovated. There can be a lot of wants versus needs when it comes to home improvements and upgrades. To be concise with your time and budget, pinpoint the areas that are a priority, like the bathroom, kitchen or other central rooms that get used the most. When you focus on your needs and priorities, it becomes much easier to know where to start. Create a Detailed Plan for the Project Once you understand your needs and the main areas that you’ll be focusing on, it’s time to create a detailed plan and scope of the project. This should outline a list of what’s specifically needed – more storage space, new flooring – along with any design inspirations, project steps, and blueprints or sketches of the completed project. Figuring Out Your Budget Next up, you’ll need to know how much you can afford to spend on your home renovation. When drafting your budget, don’t forget to include costs for building materials, permits, cosmetic décor features, and labour costs. We always recommend putting at least 10% of your budget aside for unforeseen costs. When you know your budget, you can shave off non-important elements of your reno if they’re more than you can afford. Hire a Contractor Once you’ve completed these steps, it’s a good time to start looking for the right general contractor. To ensure you’re choosing a quality team, consider their contracting license, certificate of insurance, experience, reputation from previous clients, and whether they provide a payment schedule. Finalize the Timeline Once you’ve hired your contractor, building a timeline is key. They will consult with you regarding a suitable start time, when you wish to have the project completed, and how long each stage will realistically take. Renosgroup.ca is here to help you map out every detail of your home renovations. If you’re struggling and don’t know where to begin, get in touch, or call (613) 727-9427 our knowledgeable experts today. We will be happy to answer your questions!

Bathroom Renovation Ottawa - Bryant S | Renosgroup

Giving Your Bathroom the Reno it Deserves

December 20, 2020 No Comments

Planning a bathroom reno? Aside from the kitchen, the bathrooms are the second most valued room in the home. It’s what buyers look at when sizing up a property. Even if you’re not planning to sell any time soon, a bathroom reno will help modernize your entire home and benefit you and your family for years. If you’re wondering about giving your bathroom the reno it deserves, consider these tips for improving its aesthetics, functionality and comfort. Modernize the Shower Is your shower boxed in behind overbearing, closed-in walls? If so, this can not only make the bathroom look dated, but it can also make it appear smaller and congested. To make the room feel more open and airy, we highly recommend modernizing the shower space by adding a custom glass enclosure or shower door. This will dramatically upgrade your space and make it appear brighter and bigger. Retiling Over the years, bathroom tiles can look grungy with dirty grout and outdated patterns. That’s why retiling is a must when you’re taking on a bathroom reno. For a luxurious and modern look, use larger tiles on the floor. Wide, plank-style tiles are an excellent choice for really enhancing the look of the bathroom. When tiling the shower, the combination of wide planks and smaller, texture tiles works well. This will create a cohesive and modern look for the shower, and also add grip to make it safer when standing in the shower. There are also grouts available today that are resistant to mold and stains which are ideal for the bathroom and shower. Upgrade the Plumbing Though it’s out of sight and often out of mind (until there’s a blockage), the plumbing plays a significant role in the overall functionality of your bathroom. Older, standard drain plumbing is usually smaller, measuring about 11/2 inch diameter or smaller. This can lead to frequently clogged drains. If you have a larger family, we recommend improving your drainage by having a larger 2-inch drainage pipe installed. A large pipe equals fewer clogs for you to deal with. It’s well worth it! Add a Window If your bathroom doesn’t already have a window in it, chances are it has poor ventilation and is more prone to mold. Even if you have a fan installed, it doesn’t compare to being able to air out the humidity with an open window. Talk to your contractor about installing an extra window in the bathroom. Not only will this remove excess humidity, but it will also make the room brighter. Install a Recessed Cabinet If your bathroom is tight on storage space and you don’t have much room to store those bathroom essentials, a recessed medicine cabinet can help. These cabinets are usually placed near or above the vanity and get installed directly in the wall, about a few inches. This is a handy option to consider if you’re lacking in storage and want somewhere to keep your toiletries. Get the Best Lighting for Your Space Lighting is an essential part of any design, so it’s worth putting some extra thought into. Most bathrooms don’t have the best natural lighting. All the more reason to make sure you’re upgrading yours to something that will provide all the brightness you need. Having a dimmer switch installed can be useful for adjusting the level of light, such as when you’re taking a soothing bath and don’t want bright lights to ruin the ambience. Recessed lighting fixtures are also a popular choice to place around the vanity mirror. This balances the light so you can clearly see your face when doing makeup, hair and other grooming. The shower might be another spot to consider having a light installed. Upgrade to a Modern Toilet It might not be the most glamorous fixture, but your toilet is a necessity. It can also take up a lot of space if you have a smaller bathroom. And if you have an old toilet, it can waste a significant amount of water too. Today, there are many innovative toilet designs that are space-saving and more water-efficient. Some toilets come with hidden tanks that get installed directly in the wall. These are ideal if your bathroom is smaller. Either way, upgrading your toilet to a newer one with a low flow creates a contemporary look that will save water. Renosgroup.ca is here for you whenever you want to make some upgrades to your bathroom or home. Contact us today! or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

What Bathroom Renovations Really Costs

December 15, 2020 No Comments

Renovating your bathroom may sound like a simple do-it-yourself project, but can easily come with some unforeseen costs. Bathroom renovations can be one of the best investments you can make in your home, but before you get started, you’ll need a well-informed budget of the cost of each bathroom component. Here’s what you should plan for. Construction Plumbing and Electrical – You may be able to get away with a simple renovation if you’ve got some handyman know-how, but some aspects of your project will require the licensure and expertise of a certified tradesman. Our research shows that most licensed trade work costs approximately $70-$120 per hour, with more complex installations like pot lights costing an additional $250 per light. Expect to spend about $4,000 on all plumbing and electrical work. General Labor – The cost of basic labor can vary greatly from contractor to contractor, so be sure to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best price possible – without sacrificing quality, of course. In general, labor and painting costs are calculated by the square foot, so it’s a good idea to take measurements of your bathroom before beginning. On average, $5,000-$7,500 is a reasonable estimate for a midsized bathroom. Demolition and Disposal – Before you begin tearing down any walls, you’ll want to make sure you’re not destroying any load-bearing structures, and that the material inside the wall isn’t hazardous. If you encounter any asbestos whatsoever, be sure to contact a professional with the proper skill set to dispose of it safely. Between the cost of demolition labor and removal, plan to set aside roughly $1,500 safely. Aesthetics Vanity – The vanity houses the sink, faucet, and any items you plan to store, and sets the tone for the look of the rest of your bathroom. Custom vanities can cost $2,000 or more excluding installation (which costs $600), while standard vanities typically range from $500-$1,500. Countertops – The material of choice for most countertops is stone, and the price varies based on the quality, cut, and thickness of the material. We’ve found that most engineered stone, quartz and granite countertops cost $100-$125/sq.ft including installation, while higher-end materials like marble can range from $125-$200/sq.ft. Although a less common option, some customers have chosen wood as a countertop material with beautiful results. Wood can also be a more economical material, with prices ranging from $30-$50/sq.ft plus installation. Wood can hold moisture, though, so make sure your countertops are properly sealed before going this route. Tiling – Porcelain, ceramic, and marble are the primary tile materials most customers choose, with ceramic being the least expensive. Porcelain tiles are more durable and are easier to clean, so although they cost an average of $5-$10/sq.ft, they can be a better investment long-term. Our experts have found that perfectly good porcelain tiles can sometimes be found on sale for $1/sq.ft, so be sure to check the clearance section for the best possible value. Marble mosaic designs are available as a luxurious alternative, but the cost depends largely on the intricacy of the pattern design and can range anywhere from $10-$100/sq.ft. All totaled, we’ve found that the average cost of bathroom renovations are approximately $13,393 for a midsized bathroom. Of course, the price tag of bathroom renovations could vary significantly based on location and bathroom size, so check out our cost estimation table for a more precise estimate. Of course, the biggest factor for your renovation is just how extravagant you’d like your bathroom makeover to be, so whether you have a vision for your new bathroom or would like to develop one, browse our website for idea on bathroom renovations and let us help you turn your dream bathroom into a reality! To get in touch, give us a call today at (613) 727-9427.

Ensuite Bathroom Renovation Ottawa - Mulder Ave

7 Home Renovations that Add the Most Value

December 11, 2020 No Comments

If there are areas in your home that have been neglected over the years, it’s a good time to consider a home renovation, especially if you’re considering selling in the future. Investing in a few home projects will help you sell it right, meaning you’ll get the most value for your property. To ensure you get the best possible ROI on your home, here are 7 home renovations that add the most value Bathroom Reno The bathroom is one of the best home renovations for increasing value – homeowners can usually expect to recover about 70% from this investment. Aside from its value, the bathroom is also one of the most frequently used rooms in the home, which means it deteriorates more quickly. There are many fun and unique designs that you can choose from to modernize your bathroom and make it even more practical and luxurious. Consider replacing the vanity, improving any old plumbing, modernizing the shower with a glass door, retiling, upgrading the toilet to a low-flow, and replacing old faucets. A complete reno is the best way to go. Fix Up the Backyard Backyard lounging and entertaining is making a massive comeback, which is why focusing on outdoor areas and structures is at the top of our list of renos. Modern buyers today are looking for properties that are fairly turn-key, meaning all they have to do is move in and maybe perform a few cosmetic adjustments. If your backyard is in rough condition, it’s worth investing some time and money in the area before listing your home. Focus on redoing the deck, patio area, adding a new fence or creating a cozy fire pit zone. The key to making this worthwhile is to focus on low-maintenance designs. Your contractor will be able to advise you on how to transform your outdoor space so that you can enjoy it to the max while keeping the maintenance minimal. Window Replacement Homeowners today are more aware of their energy consumption than ever. They understand how much windows contribute to their heating and cooling expenses. If your windows are old and drafty, replace them with energy-efficient ones. This will also significantly improve the look of your home and you’ll most likely recoup the investment once you sell. Refinishing the Basement We are all spending more time at home these days. As a result, homeowners have gained a whole new appreciation for unused space, like the basement. This is often left as an unfinished and unused part of the home used primarily as the place to store old boxes. Well, not anymore. Buyers want all the square footage they can get, so when they’re hunting for a home, a finished basement is key. Adding insulation, moisture protection, and creating a brightly lit and inviting space to use as a den, home office or entertainment room, can get you up to 75% ROI on average. Kitchen Upgrade The kitchen is the heart of the home and it’s where we eat, entertain and congregate the most. It’s no surprise that a kitchen upgrade can be a very valuable reno to take on, when done right. If you have outdated fixtures, cabinets and appliances, these should be a priority on your to-do list. Invest in energy-efficient appliances, add new cabinets, a granite-style countertop, and complete the look with contemporary faucets. The Front Door and Entrance We all know that first impressions matter. When you step out to the curb and look back at your home, what do you notice first? Does the front door and entranceway stand out? If your front door has been there since the day you moved in, chances are it’s time to replace it. Repair any crumbling stairs and interlock, sand and repaint the handrails, and get your porch area in tiptop shape. When you list your home on the market, you want that first impression to be a positive one. A New Coat of Paint Lastly, giving your home a new coat of paint can work wonders. When repainting, make sure to prep any areas first by sanding them down and giving them a good clean. Choose the right type of paint and focus on high traffic areas. A fresh coat of paint can have a big impact on the look and perceived value of your home. When you’re ready to invest in a home renovation in Ottawa and improve your resale value, get in touch with our licensed and skilled team at Renosgroup.ca, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

How to Save Money on a Bathroom Renovation

November 19, 2020 No Comments

Is your bathroom in need of an overhaul? Before you jump into a reno and pour money down the drain, read below to learn how you can save money on a bathroom renovation by being strategic with some cost-saving measures. Refinish Rather than Replace If your tub, vanity, plumbing fixtures or shower are looking a little rough, consider whether they can be refinished rather than replacing them entirely. If they’re simply looking rough but still operate just fine, restoring and reviving them will save a lot more money than swapping them out for something new. You can find many handy products today that make this process much easier. For example, if the bathtub is in need of attention, there’s a special coating that will spruce it back up in no time. This will also help make your reno more environmentally friendly as you’ll avoid placing old fixtures into a landfill. Don’t Alter the Layout Bathroom renos can quickly stretch your budget if you’re not careful. One way to trim added expenses is by keeping the layout the same. If you want more bathroom space, consider the cost-benefit and whether it’s really worth it. Moving the pipes and the toilet or resizing the room will hike up the cost dramatically. Always weigh the pros and cons before making your decision. Don’t Touch Load Bearing Walls Load-bearing walls are what keep the floors secure and safe above. That’s why moving them is a massive job that comes with a hefty price. Talk to your contractor about moving non-load bearing walls if needed to moderate the cost instead. Opt for a Prefab Shower One of the most costly projects for bathroom renovations is tearing out the shower and installing a custom tiled design. Instead of going this route, you could opt for a prefab one-piece shower stall. These can be installed in hours, making the labour less intense and less expensive. They also look great! Don’t Go Crazy with a New Toilet If your current toilet is an old water waster, it makes sense to upgrade to a modern water-saving one. But toilets can also become quite costly if you get swept up in the myriad of fancy features. They don’t need to be fancy to do what they’re designed to do. So look for a quality toilet that’s well made and offers low-flush options, but avoid the excessive features if you’re looking to save. Renosgroup.ca has you covered for all of your home renovation needs. When it’s time to renovate the bathroom, don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

5 Kitchen Renovation Trends to Upgrade Your Space

November 18, 2020 No Comments

If you love staying ahead of the curve when it comes to design trends, we’ve gathered the top trends in kitchen renovations that are heating up the interior design world this year. Check them out below. Simple and Natural Modern design is evolving to become more minimalistic. But having a minimal design doesn’t mean it has to look bare, cold or uninviting. It simply focuses on only offering the essentials of what you need. By eliminating the excess clutter, it gives you more enjoyment out of what you have. In modern kitchens today, we’re seeing more clean-cut lines, very little clutter and natural materials that eloquently stand out for the right balance of warmth and character. Warmer Colours for Cabinetry This year, one staple trend that’s catching on fast in the kitchen is incorporating warmer colours for cabinetry and other areas like the backsplash. Darker woods combined with tones of rich navy blue, forest green, brown, eggplant purple and even charcoal, create cozy and inviting interiors. When paired with white, cream, or light grey countertops, it looks undeniably eye-catching thanks to the contrast. Golden, Copper and Champagne Faucets Faucets play a big role in tying design concepts together and adding a touch of character and bling to the kitchen. In keeping with the warmer toned trend, we’re seeing more golden tones, copper and champagne coloured faucets donning kitchens in 2020. These play really well with the darker, colourful hues and add the perfect splash of luxury without looking too over the top. Oversized Pantries Thanks to COVID-19, homeowners are more eager to have well-stocked pantries to avoid making as many trips to the grocery store. As a result, oversized pantries are a hot ticket item for 2020 kitchen trends. If there’s enough room in your kitchen to make it happen, it’s well worth it when you don’t have to struggle to store or find things. Classic Kitchen Style With so much time spent at home and in the kitchen these days, we’ve been noticing a resurgence of kitchen designs that are rekindling cozier, traditional styles. In contrast to minimalistic and modern, these designs feature the classic shaker style cabinets in cream or white, along with glass panes, some exposed dishes, brass handles and hues of dark green or blue to accent. If you’ve been spending lots of time in the kitchen and feel like it’s ready for an upgrade, our team at Renosgroup.ca can help to transform your space. We’ll work with you to incorporate the trends that suit your needs, lifestyle and budget. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)-727-9427 to get started.

Most Reliable Home Renovations Nepean Has to Offer

October 20, 2020 No Comments

Do you wish your home in Nepean, ON, had an extra bedroom for your growing family? Would you love to find clever ways to add more storage space to your bathrooms? Then it would be best if you reached out to us at RenosGroup. We provide superior home renovations in Nepean and surrounding areas. Nepean is a first-time homeowner’s dream. The sprawling neighborhood features some of the most affordable homes in Ontario. That’s also great news for those wishing to make subtle changes to their new home. Since the neighborhoods are so affordable, you’ll have extra money for renovations. That way, you can turn your basement into a spare bedroom, add space to your bathroom, etc. So if you’re curious about renovating your home in Nepean, then you’re in the right place. Read on to learn how we can create the home of your dreams with our renovation services. Why Renovate Your Home in Nepean? Nepean is very much a family-oriented neighborhood. The area is riddled with first-time homeowners and young families. There are lots of shopping and dining options in the area, which is a plus. There are also top-notch health and dental offices nearby. It’s a desirable neighborhood to raise a family. There are many styles of homes in the area, including: Single-family homes Townhomes Terrace homes Condominiums Littered throughout these homes are excellent schools, recreational parks, and more. So why should you undergo home renovations in Nepean? Well, there are many reasons why. When you combine the diversity of homes with families, many reasons to renovate pop up, for example, adding another child to your family later in the year. All of a sudden, you’re short a bedroom. What should you do? Force your existing children to share bedrooms? Sleep on the couch indefinitely? That’s when the thought of renovating enters your mind. You have a large basement that’s currently occupied with boxes and laundry. Why not reach out to us at RenosGroup to transform it into a new nursery for you? That way, each child has a space of their own, and you don’t have to give up your bed. That’s just one of the many uses for renovations. Other examples include: Adding to the resell value of your home. Are you planning on selling your Nepean home in the near future? Then undergoing some innovative renovations can help you get the most bang for your buck. Is your kitchen a disorganized mess? Then you can rely on us for the best kitchen renovations Nepean has available. The same goes for your basement, bathrooms, and more. By making your home more appealing with our renovations, you’ll be able to sell your home for a lot more. Improving practicality. Does your home have a ridiculous layout in the kitchen? Do you have to walk half a mile to get your cooking tools? Then that’s the perfect reason to renovate. All too often, homeowners think renovating is strictly superficial. In actuality, renovations encompass far more than visual upgrades. We can help you add more storage space, rearrange your cabinets/shelves, and more. That way, you can have everything where you need it in your kitchen, basement, and bathrooms. Spruce up a dull home. Do you not feel warmth or inspiration from your home? If so, then something is wrong. Luckily, renovations are the remedy for this problem. At RenosGroup, we have an in-house interior designer. They will work with you to come up with an exciting look for your home. Instead of feeling dread when at home, you’ll be happy, energetic, and motivated. Add new capabilities. No home is 100% perfect, and homeowners often have specific little changes that they want. Renovations are excellent because they can help you tweak your home until it’s just right. So what do you want out of your home that you don’t currently have? Would you love a full-service bar or a wine cellar? Have you always dreamed of turning your basement into a home theater? The sky is the limit when you have our expert team by your side. Do you live with a disabled family member? Is your elderly mother having trouble getting around the home? Then you’ll be happy to know that we offer mobility renovations. These are tweaks and changes that will make your home more accessible. Examples include adding a seat to your shower, handrails in the bathroom, chair lifts, and more. We can make drawers easier to open, as well as raise/lower your bathroom fixtures. As you can see, there are many reasons why you should renovate your home. Doing so will add value, new capabilities, and a nice visual upgrade. Our renovations can help you transform a decent house into the perfect home for your needs. DIY vs. RenosGroup in Nepean Now that you know why you should renovate, who should you choose for the job? Should you attempt to tackle the renovations by yourself? While it may seem tempting to renovate DIY-style, we highly recommend against it. Why’s that? Here are a few reasons why DIY renovations can spell disaster for you: You’re on the hook for any mistakes. Let’s say that you want to install new tiles in your kitchen. Since you’re inexperienced, you make a mistake and do incredible damage to your floor. Sadly, you’ll be 100% responsible for the repairs. Unless you’re a jack-of-all-trades that masters every aspect of renovating, leave it to the pros. At RenosGroup, we’re licensed and insured for our work. That way, you’ll never have to pay for any costly mistakes. Unremarkable craftsmanship. As previously stated, unless you’re a renovating genius, you’ll have a lot of weak areas. Sure, you may be able to do drywall like nobody’s business, but can you install new countertops? Do you know how to woodwork and create cabinets? Have you ever installed a floor coating? As you can see, there’s so much that goes into renovations. By hiring us at RenosGroup, we’ll provide incredible craftsmanship for each aspect of your renovation.

The True Cost of Kitchen Renovations

October 11, 2020 No Comments

The average kitchen in a new home today is 306 square feet up from kitchen size of years past. If you’re in an older home, you might be looking around your kitchen and thinking, “I need more space!” Is it time for a kitchen renovation? Do you want to enlarge your kitchen or just do a small kitchen renovation? No matter what the project, you want to know the true kitchen renovation costs involved. How much does it cost? Keep reading to learn what you can expect to spend. Kitchen Renovation Cost When thinking about how to renovate a kitchen, do all of your ideas show up with a price tag? Probably not. Let’s look at the costs involved in a kitchen renovation. Major Renovation Remodel Does your kitchen need a major gut job? Moving or removing walls, or taking them down to the studs and starting over means replacing everything. New plumbing, electrical, lighting, wall finishes, cabinets and hardware, flooring, countertops, and backsplash…this is considered a major kitchen renovation. Adding in design fees, your average 15′ x 15′ to 25′ x 25′ kitchen renovation will cost anywhere from $45,000 to $80,000+. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to budget 15-20% of your home’s value. Create your wish list before getting estimates to be sure to get everything you want in your new kitchen. Minor Renovation Maybe you want a new layout, new cabinets and countertops, updated lighting, new flooring and appliances, but not a “start all over” type of remodeling. This includes putting in semi-custom cabinetry, new flooring, paint, and backsplash. A mid-level remodel such as this would cost between $25,000 and $45,000+. Costs will vary depending on the type of finishes and materials you choose. Upgrade Your Kitchen If you’re looking to just upgrade your cabinets, countertop surfaces, add a fresh coat of paint, new flooring and backsplash, your budget does not have to be as high. With no changes to the layout and the cabinets being refaced or replaced with basic semi-custom cabinets, the project is not as extensive nor as costly. For a kitchen upgrade, expect to spend $15,000 to $20,000+ for an average size kitchen. A kitchen upgrade is a great idea if you are going to be selling soon or within the next couple of years. Before you start your kitchen project, you need the answer to your big question of how much does a kitchen renovation cost. Having the budget for a job well-done will save you money in the long run. Do you know who can help you with your kitchen renovation? We at RenosGroup.ca are here for you. We are a family-owned and operated renovation team. We can customize your home to deliver exactly what you envision for your remodeled space. Remember…kitchens sell homes so you want to do it right. Contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to schedule an appointment for a free quote.

How to Create the Perfect Home Office

September 21, 2020 No Comments

With many of us now working from home, we’ve had to makeshift office space on the fly, whether it’s on the corner of the dining room table, a nook in a spare bedroom or even out on the patio. But with at-home work becoming more of a permanent structure, taking some time to create the perfect home office is important so you can eliminate distractions and get work done. Here are some key points to remember when creating space for your business at home. Find the Right Location The most important step for creating a home office is choosing the right spot. Since you will likely be spending hours there each day, you want to ensure it’s as comfortable and quiet as possible. So choose wisely. Consider Workflow and What You Need Your home office space should work for you. Before you jump into the layout of it, think about your workflow, and what you need to optimize functionality and efficiency. Your desk, shelving, furniture and any storage units should serve specific purposes based on your needs. Don’t Skimp on Your Office Chair You’re going to be spending lots of time in your chair, so make sure it’s a comfy one. This is one investment that’s well worth it, so shop around to find one that’s ergonomically correct for you, works well with your decor and above all, offers full-body support. Add Some Colour to Your Home Office Working in a space that resembles a bleak-looking office cubicle isn’t going to help motivate or inspire you to get down to business. The design and colour can drastically impact your mood and creativity. So don’t be shy with your design. If your home office is in a spare room, choose a colour that you love and that will help get your creative juices flowing. Position Your Desk with a View No one wants to stare at a blank wall all day. It’s depressing and unmotivating. If you have a window, take advantage of it by positioning your desk close to it so when your eyes need a little break, you have something interesting and soothing to look at. If you don’t have a window, hang a mirror or your favourite piece of artwork. Creating the perfect home office is all about making your space work best for you by encouraging you to stay focused and motivated on those days when it’s a serious struggle. If you’re ready to transform an area of your home into an office, let our team of reno experts help. At Renosgroup.ca, we can assist with the design, layout and installation. Contact us today , or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more.

5 Tips for Renovating a Small Space

September 8, 2020 No Comments

Do you have a small home or condo that you want to upgrade? Even with limited space, there are many ways you can get creative to increase storage while modernizing the look of your home. To get you inspired during this reno season, here are a few handy tips for renovating a small space. Start by De-Cluttering Before you get started with any renovation, it’s always a good idea to eliminate as much clutter around your home as you can, especially if you have limited space to work with. Having less stuff not only helps your contractor work more efficiently, but it also helps smaller spaces look bigger. So start by assessing the items around your home and then donate or discard anything that’s never really used or appreciated. Determine the Purpose of the Renovation Before diving into any renovation, stop to think about what exactly you’re hoping to achieve with it. What’s the purpose of the reno? Maybe it’s increasing storage space or natural light, creating a guest suite when friends or family stay over or making the kitchen more eat-in friendly. Whatever the reason, it’s important to nail it down so you can make sure you end up with the functionality and result you desire. Always Consider Extra Storage To incorporate easy fixes to boost your storage capacity, consider adding furniture that doubles as storage or even built-in couches. Also, utilize shelving towards the ceiling to store items that are rarely used. Stick with Open Concept Whether you have a smaller home or condo, having a boxed-in design with lots of walls or hallways can make any interior feel dark and stuffy. That’s why open-concept layouts have been the staple of modern interior design for years. This one change can make any space look bigger, brighter and more inviting. Make Bedrooms Look Bigger with Coffered Ceilings Do you have small bedrooms that you want to improve? An optical-illusion design trick that’s often used to make rooms feel bigger is a coffered ceiling. Inspired by Baroque and Renaissance architecture, this decorative element has been used to create a touch of elegance, texture and spaciousness. It essentially adds upward indentations into the ceiling with attractive patterns. Consider this if you want something more elaborate for your bedroom or living space. When you want to renovate your small home or condo in Ottawa, give the renovation experts a call at Renosgroup.ca. We can transform your space to look bigger, brighter and modern. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to get started or to learn more about how we can help you.

Ways To Pay For Home Renovations

August 26, 2020 No Comments

Planning home renovations can be both exciting and scary to a homeowner. Some home improvements come from necessity, such as replacing a roof or upgrading your plumbing. Other home improvements increase the functionality and comfort of your home. One of the most overwhelming aspects of home renovations for many people is how they will pay for their desired home improvements. It can be especially overwhelming if the improvement is coming from necessity and is not a planned renovation. In this article, we will outline several different options you have to finance your plans and look at the pros and cons of each choice. Save Money Perhaps the most obvious and straightforward way to pay for home renovations is to save up the money. Saving money is also one of the hardest ways to pay for home renovations and improvements. The advantage of using money that you have saved up is that you will not incur any additional debt during the home renovation process. Using liquid assets, such as cash, also means that you will not have to go through lengthy application processes. You will also be able to avoid paying high-interest rates and lending fees. However, since most people do not have a surplus of money in their bank accounts, this option will require some planning. Some of the options you must save the money you need include: – Cutting back on discretionary purchases – Saving all extra money – Taking on additional jobs or working additional hours – Selling things in your home that you no longer use The major downfall of saving the money you need for your home renovations is that it will likely delay your projects for several months. And when other emergencies come up, you can find yourself delaying your home renovations even longer. This option could also mean that any quotes you have received from your general contractor can change. Saving money is also not a feasible option if you find yourself needing a repair done immediately. Credit Cards Another option to save the needed money is to use a credit card that you already have, that has a high enough credit limit. If there is not enough money on it, you can apply for a credit increase. If you choose to use this option, ensure that you are not carrying the balance for too long, as credit card interest is generally high and can add up quickly. Personal Loans Depending on the home remodeling project you are taking on, and how urgent the renovation is, saving money may not be the best choice. Another option is to take out a personal loan. Depending on how much money you need to borrow and what kind of interest rate you can get, a personal loan is an excellent way to borrow money without putting your home up as collateral. Interest rates can vary from 2.49% up to 36%. If you cannot get a loan at a low-interest rate, this can be a very costly option. Personal loans are a good back up if you are unable to obtain financing through any other means and putting off the home renovation will cost you more money in the long run. For example, if your roof is leaking, it is better to have it repaired and pay more in interest then to let it cause further damage since the additional damage will cost you more money over time. However, if you just want to change the carpets in the bedroom, that 20% interest rate probably will not be worth it, and you are better off using a credit card or saving the money. A personal loan can be obtained through many different places, from banks to private lenders. If you choose to go with a private lender instead of a bank, keep in mind you will probably be paying a higher interest rate. However, if your credit score is low, or if you do not have a pristine credit history, a private lender may be more willing to lend you money, then a bank will be. It is worth shopping around a little to ensure that you are getting the best interest rates and terms for your situation. Once a personal loan has been repaid, you must apply for additional credit if you want to access more money to do more home renovations. Personal Line of Credit An alternative to a personal loan is a personal line of credit. This option is great if you are going to have ongoing or long-term home improvement projects. With a personal line of credit, you can access the funds as you need them and will only be charged interest on the money you have used. This option will enable you to pay your general contractor for a project and then begin paying it off before the next payment is due. A line of credit will allow you to re-borrow the money you have paid back, up to the credit limit without reapplying, in the same way as a credit card. However, a personal line of credit typically has a lower interest rate than a credit card, making it a better option. Home Equity Line of Credit A Home Equity Line of Credit is a loan that is structured in a similar way to a personal line of credit, using your home as equity for the loan. Generally, you can access 80% of the equity in your home. The amount of equity is calculated by subtracting your current mortgage liability from the market value of your home. For example, your home has a market value of $800,000, and you currently owe $600,000. This would give you an equity stake of $200,000. You can borrow up to 80% of the value of your home; in this case, that is $640,000. Since you currently owe $600,000, you would be able to borrow the remaining $40,000 in equity. Like a personal line of credit, you will only be paying interest only on the amount

5 Unique Renovations That Will Transform Your Home

August 24, 2020 No Comments

Tired of looking at the same old boring layout in your home? There are many unique renovations that will transform your home, refresh your design, and even boost the value of your property. If you’re thinking of making some changes to your interior this year, here are some different ideas to consider. A Sunroom If you want to bring in more natural light and enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your own home, a sunroom is the perfect renovation project to take on. With our long winter season here in Canada, it means we have a limited amount of time to get out and enjoy the warmth and sunshine. But with a sunroom, you can take advantage of the outdoors while keeping cozy and comfy inside at any time of the year. And best of all, it doesn’t take much effort to do! Entertainment Room Dreaming of hosting Sunday night football or girls night at home with your own entertainment room? You can easily turn that dream into reality. If you have a neglected area of the home like the basement, you can get creative and add any special features that you love like, a bar, big screen for movie nights, pool table, comfy seating, and more. Whatever you can think of, we can make it happen! Heated Floors If your floors are in need of an upgrade, you can go a step further by installing heated floors to keep your toes warm and cozy all year long. Heated floors are ideal for our northern climate since they can act as supplemental heating and take that chill out of your home, especially in cooler rooms like the bathroom and kitchen. Spa-Like Bathroom As one of the most valuable rooms in the home, your bathroom deserves a modern facelift. With added features like a modern toilet, wide plank tiles, and an elegant rain shower faucet and tub, you can transform your bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like oasis where you can relax and unwind after a stressful day. Library Love books but don’t have anywhere to store them? That spare bedroom that sits empty with old boxes could become your own personal library. With a built-in, floor to wall bookshelf, cozy rugs and comfy reading chair, it’s a relatively simple reno project that can place your favourite books on display and give you the perfect spot to enjoy reading. Whatever ideas you have for unique renovations that will transform your home, our team at the Renosgroup.ca can make it happen. Get in touch with us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more and to get a quote.

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