Are Home Renovations Necessary?

August 21, 2020 No Comments

So you just bought a 10-year old residential property for a low price. Is it necessary to do home renovations? One big YES! Who knows what kind of faulty electrical wiring and plumbing issues it has. Renovations are not just for old, outdated homes you just purchased. All existing homeowners should assess the situation of their homes if it needs minor or major boosting. There are many reasons why you need to do home improvements and not to mention the benefits that come along. If you feel like your home is not safe anymore, or the living situation is uncomfortable, or maybe you need the looks updated, do not wait and just go with your instincts to renovate. What Could Go Wrong When Renovations Are Not Done or Held off for Too Long? If renovations are not done immediately, three main concerns will make you scratch your head: more damage, more expenses, and high-risk accidents. Say, for example, you have noticed water stains on your ceilings, this is a sign of a leaky roof. Do you put the renovations on-hold? No! The longer you hold off your renovating plans, the more damage it may cause to the ceiling, and the more expenses will incur in the future. The worse part is the leaking water on the floor may cause a slip and slide accident to you or a family member. This alone is a good reason not to hold off a renovation. In order for you to get a clearer picture, here are 10 reasons why home renovations are necessary along with the benefits that come with it. 10 Reasons Why Home Renovations are Necessary #1: Safety: Avoid Accidents What will it be like living in a house that you don’t feel safe? There are faulty electrical wiring that put you at risk of electrocuted or the possibility of your house burning. Defective flooring may cause cuts, trips, or falls. A broken glass door, window, or furniture may cause cuts and wound, especially with children. How will the whole family feel living in this situation every day? What about guests coming over? If house damages compromised the residents’ safety and the integrity of the whole house itself, that is the go signal to make major changes. Do not make it a habit to wait for damages to get worse before getting home renovations done. If you do, everyone will be at risk of an accident. Benefits: The benefit of making renovations as soon as possible is to ensure the family’s safety. This will make you worry less, especially if you have young kids playing around. #2: Avoid Further Damage and Unnecessary Expenses For instance, water damage is a common house problem that may cause further damage if not addressed as soon as possible. In Canada and other countries with winter, this is a common problem. The water pipes burst during the winter because they freeze, causing leakage. [1] If there is an undetected water leak, the tendency is your water bill will increase unexpectedly. Undetected water leakage can damage walls, ceilings, and floors. This will increase the chances of developing mold, mildew, and fungus. Not only will this damage structural property, but this is a health hazard as well. See how delaying renovations can lead to further damage and additional expenses? Renovations are not just to improve the physical appearance of a home; it also ensures the home functions as it should be inside and out. It does not mean that there is no damage if you can’t see it on the surface. Benefits: Renovate as soon as possible if you see any alarming damage. In the long run, you can save more money because of the lesser repairs you’ll need. Waiting for more extended periods before responding to a problem leads to one damage after another. Not only will you salvage the degraded portion, but the other parts of the house that can be possibly destroyed as well. #3: Upgrade Your Home’s Functionality The second most important thing to a safe household is a functional home. A residence that serves its purpose well, practical, and quality is what you are looking for in a functional household. How do you know if it’s time to upgrade your home’s functionality? When you feel like there’s not enough space in the kitchen or preparing meals is a mess, that’s not functional, and you’ll be needing a kitchen renovation. When taking showers is not as refreshing as it should be, that’s not a functional bathroom, you’ll be needing a bathroom renovation. Can you keep living like that? Or is it time to renovate? Real estate experts know that the major selling point in any house is the functional kitchen and bathroom. These are the two portions of the house that we spend the most time, that is why it’s crucial to make some useful upgrades. That’s how important upgrading to a functional home is. Remember, renovations are not for aesthetic purposes alone; the goal is to also add functionality. Benefits of a Functional Home: A functional home can help you reduce clutter, provide storage, save time with all the mess, and comfort with what you’re doing. Some of these renovations may have high costs, some may be cheaper, but when it comes to the improved quality of life inside your home, it’s always worth it. #4: Add Value To Your Home Another good reason to renovate your home is to add monetary value to the property. This is especially helpful for those who want to rent or sell their homes. It is always best to acquire the services of general contractors to make improvements. They can make suggestions on what needs to be improved, and you won’t worry about the quality of their work. Renovating can enhance the return of investment in a property and is considered a wise financial decision in real estate. Experts say window replacements, wood decks, bathrooms, and kitchen upgrades generate the most added value to the property.

Home Renovations You Can Do Yourself on a Budget

August 19, 2020 No Comments

Okay, homeowners, have you ever thought your house could do with some renovation but are too afraid to get started on it because you think it’s beyond your financial means? Well, not all home renovations require substantial financial input. In fact, most people confuse renovations with high-budget remodeling, but home renovations are far from the redesigning ideas that home remodeling is. Renovations can be large-scale or small fixes to restore a property to functional repair. Home renovations are an essential part of maintenance because many things can go wrong with housing properties, from design and construction errors to wear and tear damage. Renovation helps address these issues, making the home safe for its occupants. And not all renovation ideas need you to take a loan to finance them. For example, here are common functional and cosmetic issues in a house that can be fixed on a budget on your own or with a little input from our general contractors in case you want to meet specific building codes. Fix up your kitchen Does your once-lovely kitchen now spot tired back-splash, worktop, tiles, and old cabinet doors? Then it’s the right time to give it a makeover. Here are the renovation ideas for your kitchen. Replace the countertop Not all worktops are created equal -or are priced the same, but for low-budget installation, you will never go wrong with laminate or faux marble. Faux wood is a great choice too, it is a classic design that won’t get out of fashion for ages. These are low-budget countertops that are varnished just like their premium counterparts like quartz and granite While a custom countertop design will cost you thousands of dollars to buy and install, a simple low-budget countertop, won’t cost more than $1000. It is probably not going to boost your house’s value but will do wonders for your kitchen in the short term. Reface or refinish your cabinets If kitchen cabinets could talk, they could tell you all about the sauce splatters, spills, and scratches they get from heavy kitchen operations. Kitchen cabinets take a lot while required to remain beautiful. It’s no wonder they always look so worn out beyond their ages. If your kitchen cabinet is chipped, broken, or just appears outdated, a quality refinishing or resurfacing can restore it to proper repair and extend its life. Laminate your kitchen cabinets or apply a fresh lick of paint or stain to give them a new look, but if the doors are too old and are starting to make noises when opening, then consider refacing them. Refacing means getting new doors for your kitchen cabinets. Probably order one drawer and door first to see if they work before paying for the whole set. Build shelves It’s not hard to build shelves; there are clear instructions on YouTube DIY videos you can follow to fit shelves in the style and size you prefer. There’s nothing as too much storage space; especially as your family grows, you need suitable cabinets and shelves to keep your home organized. DIY shelve designs have the advantage of having the functionality and look you desire. Professional custom design shelves and cabinet prices range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The cost of labor accounts for a significant percentage of this amount. If you choose DIY, you can reduce the overall cost significantly. Replace the sink So, your old kitchen sink is misbehaving one repair after another? You can get nice sinks under $100 and replace the old one. There are easy-to-follow video guides you can use to get the job done. You can get some great stainless steel or acrylic sinks at low prices. It’s not going to boost your home’s value, but it’s going to freshen up your kitchen in the short-term. Ever wonder if you can install an undermount sink with a laminate countertop, click here to learn more Kitchen lighting One type of lighting you can install on your own is track lighting. Track lighting goes on the surface of the wall or ceiling, unlike ‘pot’ and recessed ‘can’ lights. Track lighting is a versatile solution for both task and ambient lighting. For track light fixtures, you have many options, including spotlights, floods, and pendants, and you can adjust the lighting experience as you please. A kitchen chandelier or a bright colored table lamp will also work just fine for a cost far cheaper than track lighting. These can also change the look of the room and warm it up quite well. Consider adding lighting under kitchen cabinets too for a clearer sight and brighter view. Under-cabinet lighting is easy to do on your own. Just get affordable types that you can plug into wall outlets and attach under the kitchen cabinet instead of one that requires you to mess around with your kitchen’s electrical wiring. Kitchen backsplash A backsplash protects your walls from splashes. It is a wise idea to fit a backsplash in your kitchen if you don’t want the extra job of wiping stains and grease off your lovely paintwork. You can also use backsplash to give your kitchen a new look with just a bright selection of tiles. Use a glass panel for a contemporary look. You can get some adhesive backsplash panels that fit easily for a glossy, shiny look. Stainless steel backsplash is another great choice because of its practicality. Another great choice is acrylic, with incredible color patterns to choose from and ultra-hygienic, durable backsplash. Subway tiles work fine too. Another cost-effective measure is to fit the backsplash only where it provides maximum protection, usually near the sink. Update or fix up damaged floors There are various peel-and-stick flooring designs you can choose from and give your floor an upgrade without the need to pull out existing flooring. Fix broken and loose tiles All floors, even the premium superior, could do with some fixing after years of service. Consider fixing those loose tiles and switching out broken ones for brand new tiles. Re-sealing with

5 Benefits That a New Renovation Can Bring

August 15, 2020 No Comments

There are many different reasons why homeowners choose to take on home renovations. If you’re considering a reno project this season but are wondering if it’s really worth it, here are some benefits that a new renovation can bring to you and your home. Can Boost the Value of Your Home Whether you perform a few superficial facelifts or an entire upgrade, renovating your home can dramatically boost the value of your property. Modernizing key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and exterior can often come with a significant ROI if you plan to sell in the future since buyers today want a turnkey property that’s newly redone. Improve Energy Efficiency One significant benefit that a new renovation can bring – one that often gets overshadowed – is improving your home’s energy efficiency. By swapping out old, power-sucking appliances for modern, ENERGYSTAR® ones, you can not only reduce the amount of energy used throughout your home, but you can also save on your utility bills each month. Personalize It for You If there’s a certain feature or area that you’ve dreaded in your home because it just doesn’t suit your lifestyle or needs, you can finally create something that truly works for you. Whether it’s changing up the décor, creating an open concept layout for better flow or replacing the windows to increase the natural light in your home, you can create a customized and cohesive design that functions as you want it to. Maximize Your Space Over time, as life gets busy, our homes can start to look and feel dated, cramped and even uncomfortable. Having a few renovations done can breathe new life back into your interior while also maximizing the space that you have. And there are many different options available today that can help you enhance your living room, bedroom, and more by changing up even just a few simple key areas. Avoid the Headache of Moving If your family is growing and you need more room to accommodate, enduring the headache of moving doesn’t have to be your only option. With a little imagination and the right reno team behind you, you can recreate your space and even add on an additional room if need be. When you love the neighbourhood and home that you’re in, you could save hundreds of thousands of dollars by simply creating the space you need in your current home. When you want to renovate your home, give the Renosgroup.ca a call. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout Ottawa transform there home for decades, and we can help you too. Get in touch today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

To Renovate or To Move: Which Solution is Best for You?

April 24, 2020 No Comments

Whether you’re adding a new member to the family or just need more space to stretch out in, it can be a serious challenge when you’re weighing the options of renovating versus moving. It’s not always a straightforward answer. The best way to determine the right step for you is to consider a few key factors while weighing the pros and cons of both. To help you decide which solution is the best for you, here are some things to consider when you’re wondering whether to renovate or to move. Renovate If you enjoy your current neighbourhood and have developed good friendships with your neighbours and other members of your community, renovating could be a good option to really explore. By reinvesting in your current home, you can create the property you’ve been dreaming of in a location that you already love. But, of course, there can be limitations and challenges to every project. What might be possible for one person might not be possible for your home or circumstance, like being able to vacate your home while construction is underway. Before weighing the benefits, it’s a good idea to first ask yourself the following questions and answer them honestly to get a clearer idea of which direction to take: Do you want to stay within the area long-term? Does your neighbourhood offer the services and amenities that you need to make life more convenient and enjoyable? Is your neighbourhood desirable to potential buyers? Are homes increasing in value or decreasing? Do you have the budget and the time to take on a major renovation? Benefits of Renovating Increases the Value of Your Home It doesn’t matter if you’re contemplating a major renovation like adding an extension, or a cosmetic facelift like redoing the kitchen and bathroom, most home reno projects will add more value to your home. In fact, in some cases, it can add 10-15% more, especially if it involves any major areas like the kitchen, master bedroom, bathrooms or basement. You Can Get More Money If You Sell Of course, if you do eventually change your mind and decide that moving is the best choice, even after you’ve completed a reno, you won’t lose out. You’ll be able to get more money by boosting the sale price of your home. Homebuyers today are more interested in buying a move-in ready home that’s already been renovated, so any home improvements will be an added bonus, no matter what you decide. Avoid the Headache of Moving Let’s face it, moving your entire home and relocating to a new neighbourhood is not a fun process. It’s tedious, time-consuming, costly, and downright aggravating with so much to deal with. So we say, if you can avoid it, then it’s worth it. Even though a renovation can be costly, it can save you so much time and effort in the long run. Plus, you’ll be able to avoid the long list of fees, in addition to the sale and purchase costs of buying a new home. When comparing, it’s worth the effort to stay put and take advantage of the space you have by reinvesting in it instead. Upgrade to What You Want Since it’s your home, you can do what you like with it. Whether you’re growing a business and need a home-based office, growing your family and need a den for the kids, or want to create a separate space to move your aging parents in to keep an eye on them, you get to reconfigure your home as you need to. When working with contractors, you can discuss your needs and get the expert advice to maximize the space you have, improve the functionality of your layout, and upgrade your property to serve as you need it to. Moving Taking on a renovation isn’t a viable option for everyone. If the space that you need requires too much work or a budget that you just don’t have, then relocating might be your best bet. Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help determine the right move: Does the market show that it’s a good time to sell? Can I afford to move right now? Is it worth the effort and hassle? Benefits of Moving Improve Your lifestyle If your current location just isn’t suitable for your lifestyle, moving is likely the most practical option. Whether it’s the crime rate, lack of good school options, poor access to basic amenities or a lack of green space, it’s important to determine what you need and whether your current home and neighbourhood are serving that purpose adequately. If not, start looking. Find What You Need in a Property Is your current property in need of a major renovation? If you’re living in an older home that requires an extensive amount of repairs, it may stretch way beyond your budget. When the cost just isn’t a practical alternative, or if the home is too run down to perform basic upgrades, or if you just don’t have the desire to live in a construction zone, moving is the right step for you. If you’ve decided to stay put and make the most of your current home, allow us to help! At Renosgroup.ca, we offer the expertise and quality workmanship to transform any area of your home to improve the layout, design, and functionality. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to get started!

6 Unique Ways To Transform Your Garage

April 17, 2020 No Comments

If you’re tired of using your garage for storing old junk that culminates in a cluttered mess, or if your children have finally moved out and you have a blank slate to play with, why not transform it into a livable, usable space that you’ll love? With a few upgrades, you can create the perfect space for whatever you need or want – a rec room, home office, woman cave, or workout room. Get creative and have fun with it since it’s not a main, focal part of the home! Here are a few unique ways to transform your garage into something you can use, love, and appreciate. A Creative Studio Love to paint, practice photography or do some woodworking but don’t have the space to indulge? The garage is the perfect spot to carve out for creative endeavours so you can get messy in whatever hobby you enjoy. The garage offers an ideal amount of space to get creative without having to worry so much about ruining the floor or getting any dust or paint on the surrounding areas. It’s also handy for containing noise so you won’t keep disturbing your family or irritating them during your creative process. You can easily store your tools and other equipment here without impacting the rest of your home. One tip to consider when converting your garage is to install additional security measures to keep your belongings safe and well protected. Home Office With more people working from home or freelancing, having a home office is almost essential these days. But finding the space to concentrate without dealing with distractions can be a challenge. Thankfully, your garage can serve that purpose too! It might be hard to imagine now with a garage full of boxes and old junk, but just think about how you can transform it to create an atmosphere that lets you get down to business and be productive in your space. Remodelling the garage can give you all the room you need. With newly installed flooring, proper lighting, and of course, some comfy furniture, you can design an office space that truly works for you. Guest Room Once you’re able to look past all the clutter, you’ll see there are endless possibilities when it comes to converting the garage into something practical, like a guest room. With added plumbing, insulation, and HVAC included in the reno, you can create a 5-start experience for any of your guests. This is a great option if you’re always hosting out-of-town friends or family and are eager to give them some separate space without having to get out the air mattress. With these extra add ons, we guarantee your guests won’t even recognize it from its former garage-like state. Home Gym Instead of wasting money on gym memberships or dreading the commute, make those workouts more convenient and closer with a home gym. This is a simple and quick way to transform your garage since all you really need is a tidy, organized space so it doesn’t feel messy, and a few key pieces of equipment that you’ll actually use and enjoy. Just be sure to install some padded flooring to protect the floor beneath from the heavier weights and equipment. Woman Cave Gone are the days when the garage was solely dedicated to cars and man caves. Today, it’s all about the woman caves. As hard-working women, we deserve a space to call our own, where we can enjoy some relaxing space to ourselves or enjoy an evening with friends, minus the kids. Since it’s your space to do as you please, get creative! Add some of your favourite memorabilia and exude your femininity with luxury touches in whatever way that suits you. It could be a home theatre, a bar and poker table, a cozy reading nook, yoga space, a games room or just a general hideout where you can unwind unapologetically. Children’s Play Room If you have a growing family or a baby on the way, finding the space to accommodate your family’s needs can be a serious challenge these days. But rather than enduring a big move to a new neighbourhood, why not make the most of your current space instead? By converting the garage into a suitable play area for the kids, you can keep them preoccupied, give them space to run around and have fun without tripping over toys or getting in your hair when you’re hosting guests. When you’re ready to take on your garage with a new and unique twist, give us a call at Renosgroup.ca. Our team can take on any of your home projects, providing the professional advice and workmanship you need to ensure your dream vision can become a reality. Get in touch with us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more or to get a quote!

With Spring Around the Corner, Have You Started to Plan Your Summer Renovation?

March 13, 2020 No Comments

As Canadians, we only get a short window of opportunity to tackle home renovation projects during the summer. That’s why we recommend planning your summer renovations in the spring or even earlier so you can book in your contractor and get it completed before the summer rush. Though it can be overwhelming to think about, it’s also important to keep in mind that the longer you ignore an area of your home that needs attention, the more drastic and costly it can be to repair or improve it down the road. If you’re thinking about upgrading your home this year, here are some popular renos for you to consider for your summer project. Kitchen Overhaul After the busy holiday season and long winter months, the kitchen can endure a lot of wear and tear. Plus, it’s where homeowners tend to focus their attention on improvements because it’s the most used and valuable room in the home. This means it’s always worth investing in to maintain, upgrade, and redo whenever it’s starting to look worn and dated. You can modernize your kitchen by replacing just a few staple features like the counters and cupboards, or if your budget permits, you can redo the entire space – replacing the flooring with attractive tiling or hardwood, adding a new backsplash, energy-efficient appliances, and more. A modern kitchen upgrade can drastically improve efficiency and function while creating a space that you can feel proud to show off when you’re hosting friends or family. Adding an Extension Aside from the kitchen, adding an extension to the home is the second most popular way to enhance space and boost the value of it. If you need additional room for your growing family or a home office where you can get work done, you could create the space you need instead of enduring the aggravating process of moving. If you’re considering an extension, don’t leave your plans until the last minute. This type of project requires a good amount of planning and professional expertise to ensure it’s safe and aesthetically pleasing. Make sure to get your plans sorted well ahead of the summer months with a professional contractor who knows what they’re doing. Revamp the Basement Has your basement seen better days? It’s a common area that homeowners tend to ignore until more space is needed. Instead of using it to store away old boxes and work-out equipment, why not transform it into a space that serves a better purpose? An entertainment hub, a yoga studio or an extra play area for the kids – whatever you prefer, you can customize it to suit your lifestyle. Make Your Home More Accessible If you or a family member has a mobility issue and can’t navigate around the home easily, it might be time to consider having a mobility renovation performed. No one should feel limited or confined in their own home. Whether it’s a senior family member or a child with a disability, our contractors can provide what you need – wider doors, lower counters, lower bathroom fixtures, handrails, non-slip floors, shower and bath seats, brighter lighting, and much more. Spruce Up the Patio With a limited window of warm weather to enjoy, the backyard tends to become an extension of our home during the summer months. So it’s important not to neglect it. If your outdoor space is looking beaten and battered after the winter season, consider sprucing it up with new interlock for the patio, replacing the deck, and livening up your landscape to make it clean, eye-catching, and inviting. The Bathroom As the second most used room in the home, the bathroom can also endure a lot of wear and tear, especially with the added heat and moisture. If you’re noticing any moldy spots, broken tiles or old faucets that are starting to drip, a bathroom overhaul could be in order. Whether it requires a deep overhaul that includes the plumbing, or just a facelift, it’s another excellent return on investment. Updating your toilet to a low-flush model, swapping out old tiles and faucets, adding a lavish vanity and bowl sink for a touch of luxury, and installing a glass shower enclosure can works wonders for enhancing the entire space. Repaint One of the easiest ways to renew the look of your home is with a fresh coat of paint. Add some new colours to your bedroom, feature wall or kitchen to make it appear more inviting and cheerful. It’s a simple way to elevate your interior and exterior spaces. No matter what your home reno needs involve, our expert crew at the Renosgroup.ca can make it happen. We are dedicated to providing professional, quality workmanship and friendly customer service for all our clients throughout Ottawa. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more about our home reno services or to get a quote.

Our Guide to Spring Cleaning

March 6, 2020 No Comments

Spring cleaning isn’t just an annual ritual for sprucing up your home – it’s also a necessity for maintaining it, especially after the long and intense winter months. Enduring all of that messy, wet winter weather can wreak havoc on our exterior surfaces, and being cooped up with the heat blaring for months means there’s likely plenty of dusty crevices inside to address. To help you get your home ready for the warmer months ahead, here’s our guide to spring cleaning. Wash the Windows After the winter season, there’s no area that tends to look quite as grimy as the windows. All of that snow, rain, and dirt can do a serious number on them, making your entire home look grubby and unkempt. Plus, it can darken your interior by buffering out the natural light. So, the first task to tackle on your spring cleaning list is scrubbing away that winter grime on your windows. To get them sparkling, you don’t need to use harsh chemical cleaners. A simple solution of soap and water and a microfiber cloth will clean them up even better than standard cleaning agents. Use a squeegee for the best, streak-free results and keep a damp cloth on hand to wipe up drips and clean out those sliders. If it’s a really sunny day outside, it might be best to wait until it’s cooler and cloudier since the heat can cause the cleaning solution to dry out faster and leave streaks behind. While you have the soap and squeegee handy, you can tackle two birds with the one stone by running them over your sliding patio doors too. Baseboards, Doorframes, and Walls Being stuck for such a long period of time inside during the winter can desensitize us to the areas throughout the home that need some attention, but often get overlooked. That’s why we recommend having a family member or friend who has an honest, critical eye to point out areas that may not register on your cleaning radar. Some commonly neglected areas include the baseboards, doorframes, kitchen cupboards, and even the walls. To get rid of the handprints and dirt, soap, water, and a sponge will do the trick. Clean the Carpets If you have carpeting throughout your home, or even just some rugs, the springtime is ideal for giving them a deep, thorough cleaning. The is particularly important to do at least once per year if you have pets in the home. Their hair and dander can become deeply embedded in the fibers which can provoke allergy symptoms – something we’d all rather avoid. You can hire a professional carpet cleaning service or rent out a deep cleaner to do it on your own. Vacuum Under Furniture, Along Vents, and Crevices With the windows sealed up and the heating roaring continuously during winter, vacuuming is a must during your spring cleaning. With the help of your spouse, friend or family member, make sure to get into those not-so-easy-to-access areas – under the couch, under the rugs, under appliances, around your vents, and in any crevices. If you have central air conditioning, it’s a good idea to eliminate as much dust as you can from your air ducts before it’s time to switch on the cool air. Refresh Your Kitchen As the warmer spring-like weather emerges, it’s also a popular time for homeowners to re-examine their interior and give it a refreshed look. If your kitchen, bathroom or even the basement could use an updated look, now is the perfect time to do it. Hop online to get ideas of what you like, then consult with a designer, find a reliable contractor, and lock in your dates so you can have it done in time to enjoy the summer. Dejunk We’re all guilty of buying things that we don’t need or barely used just to add it to another junk-filled drawer. If this sounds familiar, why not embrace the brighter, sunnier months with a fresh slate? Dejunking may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The secret is to chip away at it gradually, focusing on one area or room at a time. Sorting through your belongings and eliminating excess clutter not only makes your home look and feel airier and inviting, but it also will make you feel so much better without seeing junk piled up in every corner. Safety Inspection Spring cleaning is also a good time to perform a few safety inspections. Check the batteries in your fire and carbon monoxide alarms and replace them if needed. And if you don’t have a fire extinguisher on hand, it’s worth your while to purchase one, learn how to use it, and always keep it nearby the kitchen in case of a fire. Renosgroup.ca has you covered for all of your home renovation needs. If you’re planning to overhaul your kitchen, bathroom or basement this year, reach out today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to discuss your ideas and vision so we can get it done in time for the summer.

Considering a Coach House? Be Sure to Keep These 9 Things in Mind

February 21, 2020 No Comments

Originally used for storing the horse and carriage in years ago, today, coach houses are serving a new purpose. Since there’s clearly no need for horse-drawn carriages anymore, these small structures are being repurposed as secondary dwellings to suit homeowner’s needs – as a rental unit, as a retirement space for aging parents, for adult children to live in once they return from college, and more. The options are endless as to what you can do with it. If you’re considering a coach house, transforming your garage or shed into something more useful this year, make sure to keep these 9 things in mind before getting started. Helps Create Affordable Options for Renters This small, freestanding structure that’s located on the same lot as the primary home is not only a great way to for homeowners to earn more income each month as a rental suite, but it’s also beneficial for renters since it helps to diversify the market, offering more affordable housing solutions. It’s an ideal way to create more rentals in established neighbourhoods and diversify the market. Must Remain as An Accessory Before you get started with your coach house reno project, there are a few key factors to be aware of to make sure you’re abiding by the requirements and don’t land in any legal hot water. In order to be deemed as legal, the coach house must remain as an accessory to a primary residence on the lot where it’s located. It must also be completely separate from the main house. You’ll Need a Permit Of course, like with any structure on your property, you’ll need to obtain a permit before beginning. Be sure to apply for it ahead of time so you can have everything ironed out and ready to go with your contractor. Only One Per Property According to the City of Ottawa, residences are only permitted to have one coach house per property. So, if you have an apartment unit or secondary dwelling in addition to the coach house, you will likely face some legal issues if you plan to continue. They Must Integrate with the Neighbourhood If you’re set on making your coach house the talk of the town with a big and bold design, you may need to go back to the drawing board. Based on government bylaws, coach houses must adhere to the same style and look of the surrounding urban neighbourhood. So consider your streetscape before you start playing with the design. Tree Conservation Is Important Tree conservation is taken very seriously throughout the city – as it should be. If you have any trees that are in the way of your build, you could face penalties or a fine if you jump the gun and chop them down. Instead, you’ll need to talk with a local official prior to cutting anything down. Size Matters Size really matters when it comes to these secondary dwellings. If you’re planning to extend the square footage of the coach house, you’ll have to stay within the designated requirements. According to the Ontario Building Codes regulations, coach houses must be shorter than the primary home and they cannot exceed 40% of the yard size that they’re in. On urban lots, the maximum size is an 80m² footprint and 95m² on rural lots. They can also be as small as 23m². For the height restrictions, urban locations are permitted 3.6 m tall and 3.2 for rural areas. Adding a Second Story Wondering whether it’s legal to add on a second story to your coach house to serve as a loft-style apartment? The answer is yes. Whether it’s an urban or rural setting, homeowners can create an additional level after applying and requesting it. However, they must also abide by all of the regulations outlined to be given the green light. They Are Relatively New in Ottawa Keep in mind that coach houses became officially legal dwellings only a few years ago. So, they’re still a relatively new concept for homeowners and renters alike. Also, the restrictions and regulations are always subject to change, so it’s important to keep up-to-date regularly to ensure that you’re staying on track with all of the legal requirements. There’s nothing worse than having everything planned, ready to go and then a legal blunder prevents you from continuing with your dream build. So, take the time to do your research and due diligence beforehand. When you’re ready to start considering a coach house project, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 at Renosgroup.ca. We can discuss your needs, offer our expert advice on how to create what you’re envisioning, and we can help you sort through all of the regulations and zoning bylaws to make it as simplified and stress-free as possible.

5 Predicted Home Renovation Trends for 2020

6 Predicted Home Renovation Trends

February 14, 2020 No Comments

This year’s top home renovation trends focus on utilizing space more efficiently, adding more sustainable elements to designs, and creating enhanced accessibility for all. Here we’ll look at the top renovation projects that homeowners are planning to undertake this year to help give you some inspiring design ideas when planning your next reno. Sustainable Kitchens This year, sustainable and eco-friendly elements are taking center stage throughout kitchen reno designs. But this latest green trend isn’t just focused on implementing natural cabinetry and countertops. It will also trickle down into other elements including natural or bio-based paint, and even the type of flooring used. Think recycled glass and quartz countertops, terracotta tiling, reclaimed timber, bamboo cabinets, and cork flooring to swap out. Eco lighting and energy-efficient LEDs will also take precedence throughout the home as well as swapping out older appliances for Energy Star® ones instead. Secondary Living Spaces Basement renos used to be primarily focused on adding more storage space or an extra room for the kids to play and hang out. But now as property prices reach unprecedented levels, current homeowners are striving to find ways to maximize living space instead of moving into larger and more expensive homes. First time home buyers with high mortgage payments are also getting more creative with their unfinished basement to try to increase their property value and bring in some additional income. By tearing down walls and creating an open concept floor plan, you can form a sizable rental space even in a rather small basement. Those with larger basement areas can get even more functionality by splitting the area into separate rooms – a full guest suite that includes a bedroom and bathroom, and another space for entertaining or storage. Even those looking to move are seeing the benefit of adding a guest room or secondary living space in the basement to significantly increase the value of their home. Minimalistic Bathrooms When it comes to the bathroom, bright, minimalistic, and natural designs are among the most predicted home renovation trends this year. Natural wood features, granite counters, rimless edging along the sink and oversized faucets are some elements to consider. Minimalistic designs are all about removing the excess and focusing on the core elements that you need and love. Just remember that less is more. Extended Kitchen Spaces Beyond updating your materials and fixtures, few people think about adding more space in the kitchen. In fact, it’s a rather easy operation if you have extra dining or living room space that’s connected and rarely used. Extending the kitchen area to include unique features like a spice kitchen for cooking aromatic meals in, or an extended pantry and wet bar can give you more functionality, especially if you love to cook and entertain. Another popular kitchen addition idea for this year includes a flex room for the kids to play in while you cook so you can keep an eye on them. Accessibility Spaces As more and more boomers reach their golden years, the trend for aging in place is on the rise. Home renovations that transform rooms into safer, more accessible spaces are becoming increasingly popular. By making these sorts of adjustments now, seniors can stay in their homes for much longer while remaining comfortable and safe. The most common transitions include widening doorways for wheelchair access, adding master suites to ground floor spaces, adding ramps to entranceways, lowering cabinets and countertops, removing bathtub walls and leveling out showers, and adding stairlifts along the stairwell. Sunrooms Often referred to as a modern-day porch, sunrooms help make the long winter months a little more bearable. Thanks to advanced technology and materials, sunrooms offer a unique way to enjoy the scenic outdoors right from the comfort of your home. With an airtight build, homeowners can sit and enjoy their morning coffee or just relish in the sunshine at any time of the year. There are many different styles to choose from, and contractors today can work with your existing structure and design to create a customized solution that integrates perfectly with your interior. Are you ready to transform and renovate your home this year? Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 at Renosgroup.ca. We are a family-owned and operated renovation team specializing in residential renovations, mobility renovations, and much more. Whatever you’re envisioning, we’ll work with you to make it happen. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

New Year, New Kitchen? 8 Reasons to Get Started on Your Renovations Now

January 24, 2020 No Comments

Ready to freshen up your home interior with a new kitchen this new year? Whether you’ve just purchased a fixer-upper, need more space, or want to modernize your space, investing in your kitchen is always a worthy project to take on. Aside from being the most used room in the home, it also boasts the best return on investment if you plan to sell in the future. Here are some good reasons to get started on your renovations now. Boost the Value of Your Home Ask any realtor and they’ll tell you just how important the kitchen is when it comes to the value of your home. It’s what buyers look at and asses the most when considering a purchase. If you are planning to place your home on the market, getting started on your renovations now can get your property ready to view in time for the summer rush. Even if you’re not considering a move in the near future, updating your kitchen now is one of the best ways to invest in your home since you’ll use it every single day. Easier to Schedule Contractors Winter tends to be a slow season for contractors which makes it an excellent time to take advantage of for your home projects. Without so many other homeowners to compete with, you can easily schedule the contractors when you need them. With less work slated, they’ll have more time to focus on planning and designing your dream kitchen. Better Prices Winter is also a better time to take advantage of reduced rates for your reno projects. Special discounts and offers are more common during this time of year. But they tend to hike back up once the spring arrives. Use the winter months to source better prices and discounts on inventory for windows, lumber, appliances, cabinets, and other materials that you might need. Approval for Permits is Faster If you’re planning a more elaborate design, you may need a permit, depending on the layout and where you live. Lucky for you, winter is less busy for government agencies, which means you’ll be able to obtain your permit much faster than waiting until the spring and summer months. The Mess Can Be Contained Many homeowners tend to leave their home renovations until the spring and summer to avoid living in a dusty construction mess for an extended period of time. But clean-up methods have come a long way. Contractors can contain dust, fumes, and debris more easily using negative pressure fans, plastic zip doors, and sealing off areas thoroughly. So if you’re concerned about the cleanup, don’t be. Plan It with Vacation Time If you’re planning to go on vacation this winter, it might be the perfect time to schedule in your renovation so you can be a way for at least the brunt of the construction process. This can let the contractors focus on their work without having your days disrupted since you can enjoy lounging on the beach while the work is being done. Free Up Your Spring and Summer Months Why leave your renovations to the warmer spring and summer months when you can enjoy them instead? Having to skip out on cottage weekends or vacation time to oversee a renovation project is never a fun way to spend your time during the sunnier seasons. While you’re cooped up inside, use the winter days to get your renos out of the way so you won’t have to waste any time on them when it’s finally nice outside. Assess Your Kitchen’s Needs Whether you were hosting holiday parties, cooking Christmas dinner or baking up a storm, the holidays are when we tend to congregate around the kitchen the most. And as we head into the New Year, it’s an ideal time to think about all of the features in your kitchen that were problematic or irritating. Maybe it was a lack of storage space, a cramped layout, or wonky outdated appliances. Whatever it includes, you’ll have time to sit down, contemplate what areas need improvement and how to design your new and improved kitchen to function better for you and your family. When you’re ready to get started on your new dream kitchen design, our expert team at Renosgroup.ca can help bring your vision to life. Get in touch, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 with us today to learn more about our services and to get a quote.

4 Unique Types of Home Additions

January 17, 2020 No Comments

Need some more space at home? Moving isn’t the only option to consider. Rather than having to endure the grueling moving process, you can create the space you need with a home addition. This is often a faster, easier, and less expensive option than having to pack up and relocate your entire life to somewhere else. Whether it’s a sunroom, home office, rental unit or something else you’ve been dreaming of, we’ve compiled a few of our top unique types of home additions that could be possible for your home. So, you can stay put and create a functional space that works for you and your lifestyle needs. All Seasons Sunroom Our prolonged winter season here in Canada means that many of us are cooped up inside for several months of the year. Instead of longing for the summer weather to return, why not enjoy the outdoors all year from the comfort of your home? With such a long period of time spent inside, more homeowners are opting for a home addition that they can use throughout the entire year, no matter what the weather is like outside. With a heated, comfortable panoramic view of the outdoors, you can enjoy sipping your morning coffee while embracing the beautiful outdoor scenery around you. It’s an ideal addition for those in Northern climates that don’t get a whole lot of sunshine or time to enjoy the warmer months. Though sunrooms have gotten a bit of a bad rep in past for being drafty and cold, today’s designs are much more energy-efficient and better insulated to ensure the temperature is just right. It’s the best way to appreciate the outdoors even in the winter. Room Over Garage Another popular home addition we’re seeing more often is installing a room over the garage. As more homeowners look for ways to utilize their property to the fullest, that extra space above the garage is gaining more attention. Since most already include the basics like wiring, they generally don’t need much more than some additional insulation, drywall, new flooring, paint, and furniture. Use it as a home office so you can have quiet space to concentrate. Rent it out for additional income every month. Keep it for your in-laws when they come to visit. House your aging parent so you can take care of them or create it for your eldest child when they come back from college. The options are endless. Kitchen Extension Did your kitchen feel too cramped and crowded when you were hosting Christmas this past year? Or does it just feel like it’s lacking on space to accommodate your needs? If so, a kitchen addition might be a good option to consider. By extending an exterior wall or incorporating an adjacent room into the design, you can create the additional square footage to function as you need. This is often referred to as a ‘bump out’ which is a milder version of addition. It extends the interior that you already have, including the floor, walls, and roof. You can create space for more storage and cupboards, a breakfast nook, expand the dining area or you could even take down a few walls for an open concept layout. This can also bring in more natural light for darker interiors. No matter what you decide to do, remember that the kitchen is the most valuable area of the home. So, it’s a worthy project that will yield a good return on your investment. In other words, you can’t go wrong when it comes to improving this area of the home. Family Room Addition Do you have a new baby on the way or just need more space for your growing family? When this happens, many of us jump to the conclusion that we need to move and relocate our entire life. But there’s another option that can help you eliminate that entire hassle and expensive process. Having a family room addition installed can save you so much time, aggravation, and even money. If you love your home and neighbourhood and dread the thought of having to move, it’s a practical solution to give some serious thought to. You can never go wrong with additional space, even once the kids eventually move out on their own. Forget about the hassle of moving! Create the space you need instead with the help of our expert team at the Renosgroup. We’ve been helping homeowners design their dream interiors for years, and we can help you too. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427. Check out our Home Addition Projects below:

7 Ways to Optimize that Unused Space in Your Home

December 20, 2019 No Comments

Whether you need to accommodate your growing family or want to maximize storage in your unit, there are many ways to optimize that unused space in your home. Even if you have smaller square footage, there are still plenty of ways to be strategic with bare walls and other neglected nooks. To make the most of your home, here are our top tips to optimize space. Bedrooms tend to have less space than we often need to house all of our clothing. With so many seasonal clothes to store away during different months, those bulky sweaters, coats, and shoes can become a serious pain when you don’t have another inch in your closet to stuff them in. That’s where under bed storage can help. You can find beds these days that have actual storage units built within them. But if that’s not practical, you can also utilize plastic containers that are designed to fit under the bed. Store away your seasonal wear and roll out the containers whenever it’s time to swap them out for the items in your closet or dresser. This is an ideal example of using handy space that often gets overlooked. Multi-Functional Furniture From the coffee table to that vintage trunk at the end of your bed, to the footstools in your living room – there are plenty of ways to create more space for storage with multi-functional furniture throughout your home. These days, with units and homes being more limited on square footage, furniture that doubles as storage is incredibly popular and easy to find. Consider what you need for your home and how you can double down by using them to tuck away books, winter wear or other items that you don’t often need on display. Mudroom Bench A mudroom bench is elegant, eye-catching and incredibly helpful for keeping outdoor wear out of sight. When the messy wet weather is coming down outside, it’s a welcomed addition for placing your gear away. Complete with a top shelf, hooks and a hallowed-out bench, you can place hats and scarves in baskets up top, hang your jackets as needed, and place infrequently used gear within the bench. It’s a convenient feature to have and it’s also a great way to help protect your home from the mess and puddles. Shelving Units Shelving units come in all sizes and styles to suit any room in your home. To store any finicky items that often don’t have a particular spot to tuck away, add baskets to your unit to keep things together and organized while making your home look tidy and clutter-free. These are always an attractive addition to the living room, den or even the basement. Floating Shelves Floating shelves can be placed pretty much anywhere, which is why they are so handy for homes that are limited on storage space. If you have a blank wall, utilize it by adding some floating shelves. Don’t forget to consider using the space towards the ceiling too. Those high points on the wall are often neglected, but they can become a convenient place to store away stuff that doesn’t get used on a daily basis. If you have a studio, home office or even a den for the kids, consider how you could take advantage of the space that’s a bit higher than your point of vision. Neutral coloured baskets on top of your higher shelves can be a good way to make it look more discreet. Under the Stairs Basements have a lot of potential room – it’s just a matter of finding it. One of the best spots to optimize is right under the stairs. A built-in storage unit can offer a good amount of space for just about anything – toys, books, old files or photos and everything in between. Units can be customized to fit your exact space so you can make use out of every square inch. Hanging Units Inside Cupboards Bathrooms can be particularly tight on space. But you can find extra room on the interior of your vanity cupboards. Inserts can be installed on the inside of each door to neatly store your flatiron, hairdryer and other bathroom staples in. Whether it’s creating extra storage space, updating the kitchen or modernizing your bathroom to maximize on floor space, give the RenosGroup.ca a call when you need home projects done. Our team of experts can tackle just about anything you need with quality craftsmanship that you can count on. As a family-owned business that’s been serving Ottawa residents for years, we’re the home reno team you can depend on for quality work offered at the most affordable rates. Contact us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more or to get a quote.

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