Home Renovation Blog

Homeowners always have a lot of questions when it comes to home renovations. What are the latest trends? How do I find the right contractor? How much will it cost?

RenosGroup’s home renovation blog is the go-to source for all your renovation needs. We provide tips, tricks, and advice from the experts to help you make your renovation project a success. From start to finish, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, restore your bathroom, or add an addition to your home, the RenosGroup blog has the information you need to get the job done right. We’ll help you save time and money while ensuring that your renovation project is a beautiful and stress-free experience. Let us help you turn your house into the home of your dreams.  Don’t hesitate to contact us (613)727-9427 should you have any questions

How to Plan Mobility Renovation

How to Plan Mobility Renovations

How to Plan Mobility Renovations? Some home designs can be quite unfriendly for your loved ones with mobility limitations. Staircases, high countertops, slippery bathroom floors and poor lighting can hamper the independence of your loved ones. Thankfully, many of these issues can be solved through mobility renovations.

Mobility renovations can significantly enhance accessibility and independence, empowering you or your loved ones to navigate daily routines with ease and safety. Whether you’re anticipating future needs or tackling current limitations, meticulous planning is crucial for a successful outcome.

Follow these steps to plan, design, and execute successful mobility renovations:

Determine the Needs of Your Loved One

Everyone has different challenges and needs that can be aided or solved thanks to mobility renovations. Perhaps your loved one is a senior who simply needs their kitchen to be a bit more accessible. Maybe your loved one uses a wheelchair and needs doorways and staircases to be altered. Once you have taken stock of your loved one’s mobility needs, it becomes easier to determine what changes should be made to make their home safer and more accessible.

Remember:

  • Involve your loved one in every step of the process. Their input and preferences are crucial.
  • Prioritize safety and functionality. Aim for solutions that promote independence and minimize risk of falls or injury.
  • Start small and scale up as needed. You don’t have to renovate everything at once. Begin with the most pressing needs and expand as necessary.

By carefully assessing your loved one’s needs and planning renovations accordingly, you can create a home that fosters independence, dignity, and safety for everyone. This investment in their well-being will bring immense value and peace of mind to both of you.

Consider Future Needs

Our needs can change as we age, sometimes quite dramatically. If you’re planning mobility renovations, an important consideration is to consider future needs in addition to current ones. Your loved one may currently be able to walk, but may need a wheelchair in two or three years’ time. While current space may be adequate, a wheelchair may require wider doorways and more ample turning space. If your loved one plans to remain in the home for a considerable period going forward, it is advisable to account for potential changes in mobility.

Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit

1. Progressive Conditions: If your loved one has a progressive condition like arthritis or Parkinson’s, anticipate gradual changes in mobility. Opt for modular or adaptable solutions. For example, choose doorways with removable side panels to widen them later, or install countertops with adjustable heights.

2. Multi-functionality: Think beyond “accessibility features” and embrace flexible design. For instance, a wider doorway wouldn’t just benefit wheelchair users, but also make carrying furniture or bulky items easier for everyone.

3. Universal Design Principles: Incorporate elements that cater to a wide range of abilities, not just your loved one’s current needs. These include lever door handles, accessible sinks, and step-free entry points. This inclusive design benefits everyone and adds long-term value to your home.

4. Future Medical Equipment: Consider potential needs for specialized equipment like hospital beds, hoists, or oxygen tanks. Ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate them, and leave space for maneuvering within the room.

5. Age-friendly Lighting: As vision can deteriorate with age, install brighter lighting with dimmer switches to adjust for changing needs.

6. Technology Integration: Smart home features like voice-controlled lighting, thermostats, and appliances can significantly improve independence and ease of living as mobility declines.

Remember: Flexibility is key. By planning for potential changes, you create a resilient and adaptable home that supports your loved one’s comfort and independence, now and in the future. This not only fosters well-being but also increases the home’s overall value and marketability.

Schedule an In-Home Consultation

Do not use a mobility renovation company that gives you an estimate over the phone or by email without having met you or having seen your home in person. An in-home consultation is very important to accurately assess the mobility and accessibility limitations of your home and to give you a proper quote. Alleviate the stress of your loved ones and make sure everything is done right the first time by scheduling an in-home consultation.

  • Unique Homes: Generic estimates miss your home’s nuances. Professionals need to see the space to assess challenges, measure accurately, and consider layouts.
  • Tailored Solutions: Without seeing your home, companies can’t personalize solutions for your loved one’s needs and preferences. In-home consultations lead to customized recommendations for optimal functionality and comfort.
  • Accurate Costs: Phone estimates can be inaccurate, leading to budget overruns or inadequate solutions. In-home consultations ensure the quote reflects the project’s complexity, avoiding surprises.
  • Build Trust: Meeting professionals face-to-face allows you to ask questions, gauge expertise, and build trust. This is crucial for informed decisions and peace of mind throughout the process.
  • Uncover Hidden Issues: In-person assessments can reveal unforeseen structural, electrical, or plumbing issues missed by phone estimates. Early detection saves time and money down the line.

In-home consultations are an investment in peace of mind. They ensure accurate quotes, tailored solutions, and the confidence that your loved one’s needs are met effectively. Don’t settle for generic quotes – schedule an in-home consultation for a successful mobility renovation from the start!

Ask Others

You likely know many people who have had their houses improved thanks to mobility renovations. If you don’t, you can ask around on the internet, through friends, or through local connections. They can advise you about the benefits of mobility renovations and perhaps even offer advice on some things you had not considered – like opting for a stove with front controls instead of knobs at the back that are harder to reach.

  • Seek diverse perspectives: Don’t limit yourself to one source. Gather information from a variety of individuals and professionals to gain well-rounded insights.
  • Ask specific questions: Tailor your questions to your specific needs and concerns. This will help you get targeted and relevant advice.
  • Be mindful of online advice: While online resources can be valuable, remember to verify information with qualified professionals before making any decisions.

By leveraging the wisdom of others, you can gain valuable inspiration, practical tips, and a deeper understanding of what to expect. This collaborative approach will ultimately lead to a more successful and personalized mobility renovation for your loved one.

If you follow these steps, you can help plan mobility renovations that help your loved one maintain their independence and safety in their own home.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Creating Amazing Kids Play Area in Basement

Creating an Amazing Kids Play Area in the Basement

If you have kids, you’ve probably noticed that their toys and art projects start to take over all of your living space. If it has gotten to the point where you can hardly move without stepping on a Lego piece, it may be time to find a solution. A fun and inviting kids play area in the basement is the perfect way to keep toys out of your living room…and dining room, and office, and kitchen, and…When your kids have a contained area to let their imaginations run wild, with plenty of activity stations to keep them busy, you’re much more likely to have an organized upstairs living space. Here are some tips for creating an amazing kids play area in the basement:

Floor Space


Sometimes kids don’t even need fancy layouts or state-of-the-art designs. Ottawa basement contractors can lay down soft carpet or interlocking foam tiles in your basement. Your kids will have a blast building a giant fairy tale village or putting together a massive train track set.

Art & Creativity


A kids area in the basement is the perfect place to set up arts and crafts stations. Start by painting one wall with chalkboard paint, which your kids can draw on and just as easily erase. Another wall can be magnetic or made of bulletin board material for pinning up drawings and paintings. Set up an easel station in one corner and a reading nook in another.

Entertainment Centre


If your kids like to watch movies and television, then you can set up a pint-sized movie room for their viewing pleasure. Kids will have a grand old time watching Frozen on a mounted projector while they sit in comfy mini beanbag chairs. Mount an iPhone dock in easy reaching distance for the kids so they can put on a playlist and dance their little hearts out in their newly renovated basement.

Storage


When the kids are zonked out from playing, it comes time to keep things organized. Ottawa basement contractors can design and construct beautiful custom built-in storage with a place for every single toy, book, and arts & craft item. You can include every storage component imaginable, from cubbies and bookcases to shelving and media consoles to keep your brand new kids play area organized and clean.

With these essential elements, you’ll have everything you need for creating an amazing kids play area in the basement.  If you need help for this project please don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Mobility-Friendly Renovation Checklist

The Mobility-Friendly Renovation Checklist

Unfortunately, very few homes are designed with concern for mobility limitations. Steep staircases, tight spaces that limit maneuverability, and designs that cause safety issues abound in most homes. If you want to make your home friendly to loved ones with mobility limitations, make sure to follow this mobility-friendly renovation checklist:

Schedule an In-Home Consultation

An in-home consultation is absolutely necessary to observe the mobility limitations of your loved one and assess the state of your home. Do not trust any estimate or promise that is made without having met you in person or without having seen your home. An in-home consultation with mobility renos experts can assure your renovation is done right the first time.

Ask Around

You may know people who have also had their homes renovated to accommodate mobility limitations. Ask around and see what features they love, what features they wish they had, and what they might have done differently. You can learn a lot from speaking with people who have been down the same path.

Plan for the Present and Future

You want your mobility renovation to suit your current needs, but you also want it to accommodate future changes. If you plan on living in your home for another decade, consider what your mobility needs will be at that time. It is better to do a full renovation now than to have to redo everything in five or ten years to accommodate new mobility issues. For example, it may be wise to increase the width of doorways even if your loved one does not require a wheelchair at the present time.

Bathroom Safety

One of the primary concerns for mobility limitations is being able to use the bathroom safely with dignity and privacy. For this reason, the bathroom is one of the key areas for mobility renos. Whether you wish to install lower sinks that can accommodate a wheelchair, build a wider toilet area, or construct a walk-in shower, these accommodations can vastly improve quality of life. Slip-resistant flooring is also important.

Ease of Access

It is important that your loved ones have the space to comfortable move around in the home. The house should be organized so that items are accessible and bending, reaching, or other difficult movements are not required. Some of this will not require renovation, but simply reorganizing the house from the perspective of someone with mobility issues. In the instance that renovation is required (such as doorway widening), mobility renovation experts can do the job right.

Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and accessible home with the help of mobility renos experts in Ottawa.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

How to Finish Your Basement

How to Finish Your Basement

If you have an unfinished basement, you’re sitting on a goldmine of potential. When it comes to basement finishing, Ottawa homeowners can increase the value of their homes and maximize space. Here are some of the great things you can do with a finished basement:

Play Area


If you have kids, you know all of their toys can quickly take over your entire house. Give your kids a defined play area and a room to call their own. You can set up a crafts area with an easel and drawing table, and have lots of storage with every toy in a proper place. Whether your kids want to play mini sticks, set up a train set, or build a Lego world, nothing beats a nice carpeted and colourful play area in your finished basement.

Movie Room


When it comes to basement finishing, Ottawa homeowners often opt to make a movie room. A movie room is the perfect hangout for a family on the weekend. With comfy couches, a nice media centre, and a bowl of buttery popcorn, you can relax and escape into the wide world of cinema.

Guest Bedroom


Especially in smaller homes without much spare room upstairs, building a guest bedroom in the basement can be a great option for the holidays. Your guests get their own comfortable and private space, while you still get to play host. You can work with an Ottawa contractor to design the perfect guest bedroom, even adding an ensuite bathroom to really impress your in-laws.

Workout Space


If you want to get in shape, nothing beats a home gym – especially in cold Canadian winters. Set the room up with exercise equipment, a yoga mat, and don’t forget to pipe in surround stereo sound and get those workout tunes playing. Lay down some rubber flooring to prevent slippage or dents from dropped weights.

Storage


Even an unfinished basement can be used for storage, but you can design built-ins and get your basement more organized that ever. Whether you want to store books, Blu-ray discs, toys, clothes, or seasonal decorations, everything can have a proper place in your finished basement.

Income Suite


You can even use your finished basement to make money. Enlist a trusted Ottawa contractor to help design an appealing income suite. The renovation will pay for itself in no time, and you can use the additional income to help pay off your mortgage or other household bills. As far as basement finishing, Ottawa homeowners should know that installing an income suite is a very viable option.

Don’t squander the potential of your house by leaving your basement unfinished. Expert basement renovators in Ottawa can remodel your basement and turn it into stylish and useful space.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Designing a Home with Mobility Limitations

Designing a Home with Mobility Limitations

When your loved one has mobility limitations, you want to do everything possible to make their home life safe, comfortable, and accessible. When it comes to mobility renovations, Ottawa homeowners should make sure the following areas are covered:

Maneuverability


Especially if your loved one needs a walker or wheelchair, it is important that they have enough room to navigate safely and comfortably around the house. You may consider enlisting the help of mobility renovation experts to widen doorways and made it easier to move from room to room. Swinging doors can be difficult for people in wheelchairs or walkers to open, so you may consider installing pocket doors.

Sinks & Counters


High countertops and sinks may be difficult for your loved one to use if they are in a wheelchair. Consider renovating to install lower sinks and countertops so they are easily accessible at wheelchair height. Your loved one can move around independently and not have to struggle with unreachable countertops and sinks.

Safe Flooring


Slippery flooring is a concern for everyone, but especially dangerous for people with mobility issues. Make sure to install slip-resistant flooring with non-slip coating to prevent your loved one from falling on slippery surfaces, especially in the bathroom.

Bathroom Accessibility


Bathrooms can be especially troublesome for people with mobility limitations. When they need mobility renovations, Ottawa homeowners place bathroom concerns at the top of the list. Fortunately, the experts can install strategically placed handrails, wide walk-in shower stalls, bathtub seats, handheld showering devices, and lowered fixtures. All of these adjustments make it easy for your loved one to use the bathroom privately, safely, and comfortably.

Lighting


For individuals who suffer from declining vision, it can be difficult to navigate around the house with normal lighting. Mobility renovation experts can install brighter lighting to increase visibility, reduce safety risks, and improve quality of life.

Staircases


For your loved one with mobility limitations, it can difficult or even impossible to enter houses with stairs or go up to a second story. Mobility renovation experts can construct ramps, place reflective non-slip tape on staircases, and install handrails to make it easier to walk up and down the stairs safely.

When it comes to mobility renovations, Ottawa homeowners now have all the information they need to design their home and make it safe, comfortable, and accessible to their loved ones.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

creating-the-perfect-man-cave

Making the Perfect Man Cave

After a long hard day at work, there’s nothing you deserve more than to retreat to a cozy and comfortable space in your home. When a living room or den won’t cut it, you need a man cave – the perfect combination of relaxation and entertainment. Ottawa basement contractors recommend these must-have items for the perfect man cave:

Comfortable Furniture


A man cave starts and ends with comfortable furniture. You want a variety of seating options to suit every need. You may opt for a recliner or two to sit in while you watch your favourite team play, or go for a cushy leather couch for when you watch movies. You can take your man cave to the next level with bar stools and comfortable seats around a poker or card table.

Entertainment Centre


A man cave is all about entertainment. You’ll want to invest in a nice setup, with a big screen TV, surround sound stereo and gaming consoles. For a classy look, Ottawa basement contractors can construct a built-in media centre designed to your specific needs. Not only will it look awesome, but every electronic device will have its proper place.

Bar & Refreshments


While a couch and TV fit the basics, you’ll really wow guests if you opt for refreshment options and even a custom-built bar. You can buy a mini bar fridge to keep your thirst quenched, or enlist the help of Ottawa basement contractors to design your dream basement bar. Whether you want warm wood topped with elegant granite or budget-friendly laminate, your contract can make this luxurious add-on a reality.

Fun & Games


During the sports off-season, you can still keep your buddies entertained. Shoot some pool, test your aim with darts, keep the sports action going with a foosball or air hockey table, or practice your bluffing skills with a poker table. If quarters are tight, you can even buy an all-in-one table with interchangeable surfaces for most of these activities.
Décor

When you think man cave, you may not be too bothered about words like design, style, and décor. Decorate the room with classic movie posters, sports memorabilia, or neon signs, and you’ll give your man cave the perfect look. You might go for a specific theme, like an Ottawa Senators-themed hangout with red walls and framed jerseys, or a James Bond theme with a sharp look and some movie memorabilia. Or maybe you just want a mishmash – whatever you choose, make it yours.

Creating the perfect man cave can be easy. With the help of Ottawa basement contractors, you can design, plan, and build your dream basement retreat.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Kitchen Renovations on a Budget

Kitchen Renovations on a Budget

A kitchen renovation doesn’t have to break the bank. These affordable kitchen design ideas will help you update your kitchen on a budget:

Delightful Lighting


Shed a little light on your drab kitchen with new lighting fixtures. Pendant lighting is ideal over islands to add personality and a sense of modern design. You can also install task lighting beneath your cupboards to give your kitchen a modern edge. Breakfast nooks receive an instant touch of elegance with the sparkle of a chandelier hung low above your table.  Living room lighting ideas

Add an Island


Many kitchen renovations in Ottawa include an island. If your kitchen space allows consider adding an affordable island that is a little unconventional. Look for interesting finds at flea markets and garage sales for items such as old tables, dressers and even side buffets that can be repurposed. You can add extra height to tables getting creative with items such as newel posts or garden fencing poles and add a lick of paint to complete the look.

Eye Popping Wallpaper


The trend for large geometric patterns on walls is the perfect and affordable update for your kitchen. You can use wallpaper on just about any wall including a dull and uninspired backsplash. It can be added in small areas such as across your bulk head, on a focal wall behind your dining area or throughout the kitchen for a real wow factor. You can even consider adding wallpaper insets on your kitchen cabinet doors.

Paint


Many kitchen renovations dream of always include new custom cabinets. Give your kitchen a face lift with a paint job on your boring, dated cabinets. It just takes a good sanding, primer and a few coats of paint for a total transformation to your kitchen. Cream or black add sophistication, white is filled with country or contemporary charm and grey can add a modern edge. You can add a focal point with a bright colour such as red or lime green for upper cabinets or go with one colour for a unified look.

New Fixtures


Oversized door pulls in modern metals make lots of impact for a small price. A new faucet can add sparkle and help bring a new look to an old sink. Painted cabinets without pulls have an edgy look.

As you can see kitchen renovations are within your reach with these affordable updates.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 for your next kitchen project

kid-friendly-basement

Designing a Kid Friendly Basement

If you are about to embark on the basement finishing Ottawa homeowners often undergo, families should always make their basements kid friendly. Here are some tips that will help you create a perfect space for kids:

Workspace for Homework

Teachers always advise that kids have a designated area for homework. This space should be free of interruption and have all the tools a child will need. When designing your basement, Ottawa contractors can help you come up with the perfect work area for your studious little ones. You want to have a large desk or counter surface that will be able to accommodate projects that might need a bristle board as well as a computer and space to open text books. In smaller spaces a built in counter is ideal with drawers below and shelves above. In larger basements you can use a nice large desk where kids can spread out their work. You also want to have good lighting, comfortable seating and plenty of storage space for supplies.

Indoor Playground

There are many fun additions you can add to your basement finishing Ottawa kids will love. An indoor playground will offer a safe, year round area that will help keep your kids active. Consider adding a climbing wall with a comfy, foam floor where kids can take fun tumbles. You can also look at installing a basketball hoop, slide and even a tire swing. Consider your kids’ interests and look at ideas such as a little stage where they can put on shows, indoor jungle gyms and fun crawl spaces where kids can hide. The space under the stairs can make a cozy reading space with book shelves, lots of pillows and an overhead pot light.

Carpet

Carpeting is a must for kid friendly spaces. It will allow kids to crawl around, laze, read and avoid injury. Install wall to wall carpeting in the area designated for play. You can then add a more sophisticated flooring like hardwood in the “adult” area. Foam tile works well for kids as well.

Chalkboard Wall

Kids love to draw and play games like school. Paint an entire wall using chalkboard paint so kids can get creative and also not be tempted to paint or colour on areas they shouldn’t.

These tips will help you create a perfect kid friendly basement the whole family will love.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

renovating-an-older-home

Renovating an Older Home

If you are considering renovating your older home there are many ways an Ottawa general contractor can help you make updates without taking away the original character and charm.

Focus on Architecture

The architecture of an older home tends to feature far more charm and character than homes that have been mass produced in sub-divisions. Even retro homes that are mid-century modern will have some interesting features you might want to leave untouched. Some common features you might want to repair and refinish as opposed to completely tear out and replace would include:

• Original crown moulding
• Stair cases, including retro 70’s “Brady Bunch” stairs
• Original doors and framing
• Original hardwood or even parquet floors
• Mantles and fireplace detailing
• Special window features such as stained glass and transoms

Items to Salvage

When you are renovating older homes there are also a number of items you might want to discuss salvaging with your Ottawa general contractor. For example if you want to redo your kitchen many older homes might have interesting vintage or even historical details such as sinks and lighting. Even if you do not want to use these items yourself you might be able to sell these items for a fair penny to those who are looking for original pieces for their own renovations. Other items worth salvaging can include:

• Doors
• Trim (might be hard to remove without damage)
• Claw foot tubs
• Window panes and storm windows
• Old light switch plates
• Old heating grates
• Old door knobs and cupboard pulls
• Old kitchen and bathroom cabinets
• Old flooring

Items to Update

Your Ottawa general contractor can also assist in updating areas of your home without the need to completely tear out or replace certain features. For example, an old staircase can be reinvented with the addition of modern glass balustrades. Another update can be as simple as painting out dark wood features from baseboards to wainscoting. An old front door might have a certain element of charm while adding to the authenticity of your exterior architecture. Sanding and painting might be a better option than just tearing it out and replacing it. Hardwood and parquet floors can be sanded and given a modern edge with a darker stain. You can even change unneeded closets into interesting alcoves.

Your Ottawa general contractor can help maintain the integrity of your older home while offering a sense of contemporary aesthetics you desire.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Working with small spaces

Working with Small Spaces

Living in a small home doesn’t have to feel cramped with these easy tricks for working with small spaces:

Remove Barriers


Opt for furniture with open legs to give a feeling of airiness. Avoid items such as sofas with skirts and instead go for exposed legs. For rooms such as the kitchen get rid of heavy, overbearing upper cabinets and choose islands that look more like furniture. Use open shelves instead of cabinets to open up spaces.

Optimize Every Centimeter


Look at your home and look for hidden opportunities where you can take advantage of even the smallest space. Look at bay windows to insert a desk or add extra seating with a window seat complete with storage. Consider knocking out the wall beneath a stair well to add storage or even to place a desk as a small office. Look at foyers where hooks can be added for storing coats if you do not have space for a closet.

Look Up


Ottawa contractors can often explore the ceiling and floor to see if you can add height. Height adds a feeling of spaciousness and can also give way to areas for further storage such as bulk head upper cabinets. This works as long as you have extra ceiling height but can look crowded in standard room heights. You can also consider exposing your attic area for cathedral ceilings or creating an additional small loft style room.

Add More Light


Natural light is the small home’s best friend. Look for ways to bring in more natural light with light weight curtains as well as using mirrors to reflect light back into darker rooms. Mirrors also help to add the illusion of more space. Light installed along the perimeter of the ceiling brightens and lightens.

Camouflage


Ottawa contractors can add built-ins that blend into the walls to keep a space feeling open and hide clutter. You can also camouflage walls with vertical lines using beadboard or wallpaper (or a paint effect) that will add height to rooms that feel crowded. A large geometric wallpaper on a small wall at the end of the hall can often provide a sense of space as well.

Glass


Choose accent pieces with glass surfaces to keep things light. Glass tables such as coffee, dining and accent will open up a room.

Your home will suddenly open up with these easy tips designed for spacious living.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Contact us

Office Address:
251 Laurier Ave W, #900
Ottawa, ON K1P 5J6
Phone: (613) 727-9427
Office Hours: 
Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

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