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How to Create the Perfect Home Office

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/09/">September 21, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

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

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/09/">September 8, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

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

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 26, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

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 that you take from the line of credit. Unlike a personal line of credit, the interest rates are flexible and can increase your payments. Another thing to be aware of is that if you are not careful, you can overspend and tap out the equity in your home. Doing this will leave you with a large principal amount and interest payments when you are in the repayment period.

Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan is like a home equity line of credit in that the loan is taken out against the equity of your home. The home equity loan is a lump sum equity draw, which will allow you to have a good source of money to put towards your home renovations. One advantage of the home equity loan is that they have a fixed interest rate, which means that the payment will be the same every month, making budgeting easier. Keep in mind that the terms of a home equity loan and line of credit can vary from one lender to another. It is vital that you understand the repayment terms of your loan before you commit to the lender.

Refinance Your Primary Mortgage

Refinancing your mortgage allows you to pay off your current mortgage by securing another mortgage loan. You can borrow as much as 80% of your home’s appraised value, which leaves you money to pay for home improvements. Another advantage of refinancing your home is that you can get a lower interest rate on your mortgage. Much like the home equity line of credit and home equity loan, the amount you can borrow on your home’s refinancing depends on the equity of your home. Unlike the other options, refinancing your home will give you the money for home improvements without incurring a second payment since the loan payment is a part of your mortgage.

Secure A Second Mortgage

A second mortgage is an additional loan with a different mortgage broker that is taken out on a property that is already mortgaged. Like the other options, the amount you can borrow on a second mortgage is based on the equity in your home. Unlike the other options, second mortgage lenders care less about your credit score and income and care more about how much equity is in your home. This is the most significant advantage of taking out a second mortgage, although you must consider if the home renovations you want to do will outweigh the cons that come with the second mortgage.

One of the major cons in choosing to take out a second mortgage is that interest rates are higher than the other options. This is because the second mortgage lender is taking on more risk than the original mortgage provider, as they are in the second position for the property’s title. This means that if the homeowner were to default on their loan and the property is taken into possession; the original mortgage will be paid out first. If there is any money remaining, it will then go to the holder of the second mortgage.

Another con to taking out a second mortgage is that the terms are typically only for a year or two. During this period, you are only paying the interest payments. At the end of the term, you either need to pay back the total of the second mortgage or extend the loan.

Getting a Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage is something available to homeowners who are fifty-five years and older. A reverse mortgage allows you to borrow up to 55% of the current value of your home. Reverse mortgages are often not the right choice for home renovations unless the improvement is absolutely needed to keep the house in liveable condition. You should also consider if it might be a better option to move into another house and sell your home, instead of getting a reverse mortgage.

One advantage of a reverse mortgage is that you do not need to make any regular payments. However, the interest will be added to the loan amount until the loan is completely paid off. You can also pay off the reverse mortgage at any time. Another advantage to a reverse mortgage is that you can choose to take the entire amount in one lump sum, or you can choose to take a chunk of money in the beginning and get regular payments after that.

The disadvantages to a reverse mortgage are that the interest rates tend to be higher than other options. Your estate will have to pay the loan off when you die; in addition, if you choose to sell the home in the future, you will be required to pay off the reverse mortgage.

Financing When You Purchase Your Home

If you are currently in the beginning phases of purchasing a home that you know is going to need renovations before you move in, or right after you move in, you can add the cost onto the mortgage when you set up your initial mortgage. By choosing this, you will pay a lower interest rate than you will with a credit card or a loan.

Things to Consider Before Taking out a Loan for Home Renovations

Many of the loan options you can take out to pay for home renovations may seem similar. It is essential to make sure that you consider all the pros and cons of each of the choices before you commit to one. Often it is a good idea to speak with a financial advisor to help you decide which of the options are best for your situation. Before you apply for a loan to pay for your home renovations, there are several things you should consider. These things include:

– How much money do you need to borrow?

– How much money can you afford to borrow?

– Do you urgently need the money, or is it possible to save up for it?

– How much can you afford to spare for additional loan payments?

– Can you still afford the loan if the interest rates increase?

If you can be honest and realistic in answering these questions, you stand a good chance at securing a loan that is best suited to your situation.

Grant and Rebate Options

If you are doing renovations that will lead to more energy efficiency, you may be eligible for a rebate. There are many options for grants and rebates through Federal, Provincial, and Municipal governments and local utilities. These grants are always changing, so it is good to do some research and find out if any of the rebates are available to you. If you are not sure, your general contractor can help you investigate the available options for grants and rebates.

Sweat Equity

In most cases, the most substantial portion of the cost of any home renovation project is labor costs. One option to get around this is to do the renovations yourself. Instead of hiring a general contractor with a crew of laborers, you can get some friends to help and accomplish the home improvements yourself.

The main disadvantage of choosing to do the renovations is that you will miss out on the technical expertise that comes with hiring a professional. A general contractor is armed with the knowledge that many people just do not have. For example, a general contractor will know if any permits will need to be pulled for your project and the ins and outs of the construction requirements and codes specific to your local area. While there are some home improvements that you can do yourself, such as painting walls, there are some home repairs that you should never do yourself. These repairs include the following:

– Electrical maintenance, including anything related to the circuit breaker

– Major basement renovations, including restoring the floor, or adjusting the height of the foundation

– Any plumbing work, including replacing bathtubs, sinks, and toilets

– Anything that affects the structural integrity of your house, including removing walls or changing windows

– Anything relating to gas appliances, including natural gas heat sources

– Asbestos removal, including opening walls that might have asbestos in them

– Waterproofing your foundation, and any landscaping work that is being done around the foundation of your home

– Replacing your roof, even if you are only replacing a portion of your roof

– Redoing the exterior of your home, including building, or removing decks, fences, and garages

Attempting to do these home repairs yourself will often lead you to spend more money when you discover that you didn’t get something up to code, or find that you can not complete the project yourself and ultimately hire a professional. Eventually how you choose to pay for the home renovations that you have planned comes down to what is best for you and your unique situation. Understanding your options is imperative to make sure that your home renovations can be completed when you are ready for them to be. Use this article as a guide when you plan for home renovations the next time and keep your options open. It’s always better to have everything planned beforehand to avoid getting into financial troubles later on. Whenever you are ready, you can complete our online form, or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to request your free in-home

5 Unique Renovations That Will Transform Your Home

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 24, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog

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.

Are Home Renovations Necessary?

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 21, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

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. [2]

Just remember if you’re renovating for the purpose of renting or selling the property, set a realistic budget, and make sure not to overspend. There are tendencies that homeowners spend overboard with renovations. There are hopes of selling at an escalated property price, but the selling price is not justifiable anymore. Never make this mistake, and ask general contractors what’s best.

Benefits: When a home is newly renovated, you can increase the monthly rental price to compensate for the expenses during home remodeling plus earn more. If you’re in the process of selling a newly renovated house, you won’t have a hard time attracting buyers, and you can always increase the price. A newly renovated house is worth spending for, and people are willing to shed that extra cash.

#5: Comfortable and Enjoyable

Who wouldn’t enjoy a newly renovated house, specially designed for your comfort and enjoyment? Home is the only place to be yourself, be comfortable, and live the way you want. If it’s the other way around, would you still call at home? You don’t need to sacrifice your rest time; it’s because you’re not comfortable with your living situation.

If you’re not quite comfortable and you don’t enjoy your rest and relaxation time at home, maybe it’s time for you to consider renovating. A change in the wall colours can bring a positive impact on your mood. Perhaps the natural lighting coming in is insufficient; that’s why you feel gloomy. It’s time to renovate the window decks or roofing to welcome Mr. Sun. If you’ve been longing for that nook area or cozy patio you’ve been dreaming of, go for it.

The functionality of a home is essential, but comfortable living keeps you sane. If you’re renovating to make your home more comfortable and enjoyable, make sure to add your personal touch. You’re going to spend the money anyway, so why not make sure that you get the best out of your buck?

Benefits of Comfortable and Enjoyable Home: You will notice improvements in your mood when you feel comfortable at your home at last. You will also feel more confident in inviting friends over because you’re proud of the home improvements you had done. This will also benefit people who work from home. Being able to create a home atmosphere to your liking boosts productivity at work.

#6: Improve the Appearance of your Home

If you feel like the odd house in the neighbourhood, and somewhat embarrassed of how your home looks like, it’s time to consider renovating. If you feel embarrassed to invite friends over or celebrate special occasions in your house because of your house’s unpleasant appearance, it’s time to renovate. You wouldn’t want your home to look like a haunted or abandoned house, right?

Let us be clear that the functionality, comfort, and appearance of a home are all different. Functionality and the comfort of a home depend on the person’s preference, while a home’s appearance is a standard. A home may be functional and comfortable, but it may not have that “presentable appearance.”

If you prefer outdated old-looking houses, at least make sure to make it presentable. It doesn’t have to be the standard modern design, because old-school looking houses can be exceptionally charming. Whether you prefer a contemporary design or stick with your existing house design, you can always make renovations to improve your home’s appearance.

Benefits of an Improved Home Appearance: When people say, “you have such a lovely home,” wouldn’t you be flattered? A home with an attractive curb appeal, great-looking interiors, with matching furniture, will get praises. It’s easier for you to welcome guests, organize parties in the house, and easier to sell in the future.

#7: For Expanding Families

When your family is expanding, and your house feels cramped, it makes sense to make some renovations. For example, if the original provisions of your house are just for two bedrooms, and one bath, but you had four beautiful children, wouldn’t you consider renovating? What if you had family and friends coming over? Where will they stay?

Making necessary renovations is essential for expanding families. You can always have additional rooms, turn the living room and kitchen into an open area, or use some of the outdoor space into a living space. There are no limits, and a reputable general contractor in Ottawa can help bring you closer to your desired home.

Plus, if you have kids running around the house, you need to make some home improvements if there are health hazards in the house. Older homes typically have asbestos in several areas, on heat ducts, in drywall plaster, stipple ceilings, etc. Canada’s government discourages the use of asbestos in homes due to its life-threatening effects. [3] Then, lead paint was banned in Canada since 2005 due to health risks affecting the growth and development of children.

Benefits of a Renovated Home for the Family: Renovating a home is important for expanding families so the kids can have their own room for themselves when they grow up. If it’s the other way around, and the kids have all grown-up, you can make renovations and downsize. You can convert their rooms into an entertainment rooms or a greenhouses. It’s also beneficial for families with little kids if their house is updated, so no health hazards are present while in their developing years.

#8: For Mobility Renovations

This may not be an issue for some people, but for households with disabled family members or elderly parents, mobility renovations are a must. There are a limited number of general contractors in Ottawa who offer this service.

You can always have a free consultation to be aware of the necessary renovations best suited for your needs. People on wheelchairs or scooters usually have a limited space to maneuver and are sometimes unsafe. People with disabilities even have a hard time reaching cabinets, storage areas, and counters. Mobility renovations are designed to make their lives easier, even when they’re living alone. These renovations are made safe and cater to different mobility needs.

The goal of mobility renovations is to establish large open space, with a safe and accessible design for handicapped individuals. Homes can be customized with wider doorways, lower countertops, brighter lights, handrails, non-slip floors, and many more. You can always ask for specific designs depending on your needs. Either you’re in a wheelchair or crutches, these renovations are important.

Benefits of Mobility Renovations: Mobility renovations allows a safe, accessible, and wide environment for people who have limited range of motion. Mobility renovations allow safe bathroom time, accessible cooking, and an overall safe environment.

#9: Creating Home Additions

If somehow, you’re not satisfied with your existing living space, or you want an additional room in the house, you will need renovations. Home additions like man caves, gaming rooms, home offices, or playpen can be achieved with affordable improvements. Whatever kind of home addition you think might be helpful to have at home, only you can make it possible.

Benefits of Home Additions: Renovating your house and having home additions helps you to be more efficient with your job. This is especially true when you’re making additions that are work-related and boost productivity. Basement renovations are like an addition in the basement, can include man/woman caves, sound proof studios, extra bathrooms, kitchenettes, bars, etc… will surely make the whole family happy, and guests coming over will love it.

#10: Add Your Personal Touch

Last but not the least, home renovations allow you to add your personal touch to your home. This is your chance to renovate your house into the dream home that you have envisioned. If you bought a pre-owned house but felt like the house “does not scream you,” making minor or major renovations is your answer.

You want those ugly countertops upgraded into granite? You got it! If you wish that earth-toned colours with minimalist concepts you see on Pinterest, you can always have it your way. Whatever way you want it, it must be functional, comfortable, pleasant to the eye, and of course, specified to your liking.

Benefits: Living in a home with your personal touch promotes comfort, boosts positive vibes, and drastically improves your mood. For people who have Obsessive-Compulsive tendencies, you may have storage rooms, pantries or cabinets designed the way you like it. For plant parents, you can make provisions for your indoor plants to have a green and clean home.

Why wait? Renovate Now!

Now you know the 10 reasons why home renovations are necessary, this surely makes you want to do the upgrades you’ve been planning. You wouldn’t land on this page and end up reading this article if you have no prior plans, right?

If money constraints cause the delay, do not worry because there are general contractors that offer affordable renovation costs or financing options. Always make sure to choose professional and experienced contractors in the industry.

In Ottawa, RenosGroup is one of the best in the industry. The family-owned renovation team specializes in catering to client needs. If you have concerns or inquiries about home renovations, RenosGroup is happy to answer all your concerns. Choose the best, and experience the best!

Home Renovations You Can Do Yourself on a Budget

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/08/">August 19, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog, Renovations

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 a suitable product

Sand dragged in the house by way of feet also eats away at the floor surface, making it lose its original shine. Another reason your floor gets a grimy-look is when mopping water, carrying soil with it settles into the grout. Washing with robust cleaning solutions and re-sealing with a suitable product will restore your floor to shine.

Fix installation errors

Another reason to fix your floor is to deal with the mishaps of previous installations. Building and construction errors can result in tenting where tiles start coming up on their own, sloping or uneven floors, etc. Worry not, though; you can get the services of professionals to fix your floors

Renosgroup provides extensive flooring restoration services on all floors, including vinyl, wooden, and ceramic.

Do up or replace your front door

A few things in your home are as aesthetically important as the front door. It is where your guests come into your house and therefore deserve an occasional fresh coat of paint to protect it from harsh weather elements. Your front door also helps keep the house warm and cozy. Therefore, for home renovation on a budget, consider the following:

A fresh lick of paint

A fresh lick of paint is going to do wonders for your front door, together with fresh paint on the exterior, this is going to raise your home’s aesthetic appeal. Start by applying the undercoat.

Paint cautiously in multiple layers starting with a thin primer, sand it smooth, then apply another layer of coat, clean and repeat for a mirror-finish. Leave a 24-hour gap between coats and use a clog-resistant sanding sponge to smoothen the coat. Once the undercoat looks satisfactory, apply the glossy finish to highlight your door’s best features.

Replace hardware parts

You can also renovate your doors with brand new hardware, including handles, letterboxes, and house numbers attached to your door.

Just ensure that any hardware replacements completely cover the marks left by past fixing jobs. Get a latch, handle, and letterbox that is somewhat larger than you had before.

Interior and Exterior painting and decorations

A fresh coat of paint on your walls with the most recent colour trends will raise the aesthetic appeal of your home. For brick houses, you will never go wrong with rendered exterior walls.

Rendered exterior walls

Just start by taking care of cracks, flaky paint, mold, redundant screws, neglected waterways, and any other defects that are likely to interfere with your paint job. Keep all tools you will need on-site together in one place and pets and kids away. When painting, start at the top of the wall, working your way down with confident brush strokes. In case of doubt, consider hiring a professional to give your walls a blitz.

Removable wallpaper

If you don’t like how your rooms look, how about fixing that with some removable wallpapers. Wallpapers add a pop of color, texture, and accent onto your walls while helping cover up botched paint jobs!

Create an open space floor plan

If you feel like you are living in too many rooms with traffic problems and insufficient fresh air and sunlight you could do with tearing down extra walls to create open space floors.

Demolition is an integral part of home renovations. It’s one of those low-budget renovation projects that, if done right, can help achieve an open floor plan of your dreams without blowing holes through your financial pockets. You can add space in your home or get more light by bringing that living room wall down.

Open Living: What is it?

Open living is the newest trend in architectural designs. The traditional living style where you get a kitchen, dining, and living in separate niche rooms is being faced out in favor of an all in one design where one room serves all purposes.

An open floor plan is how people are choosing to live now. Bringing down those walls between separate rooms is the way to go. You can increase space without messing with a home’s footprint.

Tips for Open Living

Make a plan for art and furniture that hangs on the wall before beginning the project. You don’t want to discover there’s nowhere to put your old piano after renovation.

For cohesiveness, use uniform flooring throughout. Go with light colors to enhance the natural light in your house. Exploit those scenic views by orienting your doors and windows into the yard or pool. One of the biggest trends in millwork design is connecting kitchens and living rooms with the outside using collapsible exterior double doors; that way, you can create a relaxed atmosphere in your house.

Check if your city requires an interior demolition permit. Most building permits also give you the freedom to complete interior demolition, but some cities require special interior demolition permits. In case of lead and asbestos paint, you are going to need additional permits too.

Watch out for your HVAC system. Consider getting specialists to relocate vents and ducts and upgrade your heating and cooling system if necessary.

Use windowless ways to enhance natural illumination in the house.

Do you wish to increase natural illumination in your house? You don’t have to replace your solid exterior doors with garden doors or make large holes on the walls for light to pass through. There are windowless ways to increase the amount of natural light in your house. These include:

Light tubes

You can use a light tube to direct light from the rafter into your living room. Light tubes are especially handy if you don’t have a single-story roof for use with skylights. These are clever, twisty, reflective designs that can reach 30 feet from the rafter to the ceiling.

Another advantage of solar tubes is that no major remodeling of structure or paint is needed. They achieve the same illumination as three 100-watt bulbs, plus they are eco-friendly to boot!

Use bright, reflective colors and paint

Even a dark room, with large windows, is going to appear dreary and dull compared to a room with reflective white, light tan, or light grey surfaces.

It is simple logic; dark colors absorb more light and reflect less while light colors behave like mirrors, allowing light to bounce around the house.

Use light colors in your interior walls, and while at it, make the walls a few shades darker than the ceiling for a taller, larger, brighter interior space.

Add semi-gloss or shinier, satin paint to enhance the reflective surfaces.

Consider painting or covering overhangs

So, overhangs provide weather protection when conditions turn horrible, but they could also be why you are getting less sunlight. To enhance natural illumination in every room, consider painting or covering the overhangs or eaves. A white paint around the overhang or covering with maintenance-free white vinyl or aluminum will do the trick.

Switch out dense draperies for light, airy ones

The days of dense draperies on windows are long gone, light window treatments are in fashion now. Most people work from home now; they serve as offices. So, if you are going to be spending a lot of time indoors, make it illuminated and airy to boot.

Switch out those Roman shades for sheer, fun, single-panel draperies that you can pull back for a breathtaking view of the outdoors.

Alternatively, why not go for blinds. This interior design technological marvel allows the controlling of the amount of light into the home easily.

Trim tree branches that block light

Home renovations are never complete without a bit of landscaping to add the wow factor, and it also helps to remove branches blocking doors or windows so more natural light can get through.

Fix your basement

Basements are always the neglected spaces in most homes, filled with old furniture and boxes stuffed with childhood memorabilia. But do you know that your basement could be a fantastic living space if finished, right?

Fix foundation cracks

If your basement is slightly more humid than the rest of the house, then possibly, air, slipping through cracks on the foundation, has to do with it. It can lead to massive energy bills as the house gets colder than usual. Water may also sip through and wreak havoc on the basement floor and your valuables. Get the help of Renosgroup’s basement renovators to fix foundation cracks in your basement to meet local area building codes.

Bring in natural lighting.

You can use a solar tube to direct light from roof rafters and illuminate your basement. Another way to increase natural light is to adopt an open floor plan, too many walls block light from reaching the basement. Don’t forget about mirrors too, they do wonders, letting light bounce throughout the space.

For further ideas on how to make your basement spacious, comfortable, and cozy on a budget, get in touch with renosgroup to see what we can do for you.

There you go….. home renovations are fun and an exciting way to restore your property to good condition. Just remember to start by cleaning up first, a renovation is easier to visualize and do when the space is clean and free of clutter. For help with your home renovations and other remodeling ideas in Ottawa, get in touch with renosgroup or give us a call at (613)727-9427 We specialize in top quality home renovations, including bathroom renovations, kitchen renovations, basement renovations, and home additions.

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

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/04/">April 24, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog

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

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/04/">April 17, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog

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?

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/03/">March 13, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Home Renovation Blog

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

https://renosgroup.ca/2020/03/">March 6, 2020
By Keith Melanson
In Expert Tips, Home Renovation Blog

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.

Home Renovation Blog