Kitchens

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

Simple Kitchen Renovations

3 Simple Kitchen Renovations

If your kitchen looks a little uninspired there are a few ways you can invest in an affordable kitchen renovation. Instead of undergoing a complete remodel you can make partial renovations that will help to update your kitchen. Here are three budget friendly ideas to give your tired space a little makeover:

Cabinets and Backsplash


Your cabinets can be updated in a number of ways. You can opt to refinish them with a new stain or a fresh coat of paint. This can be a little labour intensive but well worth the effort. You can also look into refacing your cabinets. Cabinet refacing uses the base of the cabinets and replaces the doors. This is an easy process with little disruption. It is also affordable and makes a huge impact on the look of your kitchen. A backsplash update is also an affordable option. With so many choices of tile you can really get creative. However even a fresh new backsplash of simple white subway tile can do wonders to make your kitchen look new.

Tile and Appliances


Nothing dates a kitchen more than old appliances. Replacing your appliances with new, energy efficient appliances will make your kitchen look state of the art. It will also help reduce your energy bills. You can opt for sleek stainless steel for a modern look or look for options such as built-ins for island cook tops, wall ovens and fridges. Tiling is another excellent way to create a decorative update for your kitchen. You can create an interesting mosaic design behind your stove, update your backsplash or look at new flooring options. Tile is affordable and can be used to create a number of styles including modern, traditional or rustic.

Countertops and Hardware


Countertops cover quite a large surface area in your kitchen, even in smaller spaces. That means new countertops can make a huge impact on the look of your kitchen. There are many options for countertops including natural stone and marble, butcher block and man-made options including recycled glass. A simple finishing touch that can really update your cabinets is replacing your hardware. Look for large and impressive handles in white metal for a modern look or rustic finishes such as brass or black cast iron knobs for a traditional or country kitchen.

Partial kitchen renovations are the budget friendly option for easy kitchen makeovers.  Don’t hesitate to contact us for your next renovation project, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

eco-friendly-kitchens

Creating an Eco-Friendly Kitchen

Many people think that the kitchen renos Ottawa homeowners undergo are far too expensive for their own budgets. However if you take an eco-friendly approach to your kitchen renovation you will find it can become quite affordable. Here is the perfect way to create an affordable eco-friendly kitchen for your home:

Repurposing Countertops

Take a look at your counterops. They may be in perfect condition and do not need replacement. Many people discard their old countertops which is a major addition to the local landfill. If your countertops are in good condition they can be reused. With the addition of newer features throughout the kitchen you can take focus away from the counters.

Energy Star Appliances

You would be surprised at how much energy your old fridge can use up every day. A new Energy Star fridge will be an investment up front but will then save you money in the long run. It is also the eco-friendly choice as it will reduce your energy consumption. The addition of Energy Star appliances is also a perfect way to update the look of the kitchen renos Ottawa contractors’ offer, even with minimal work to the rest of the space.

Natural Light

Consider adding a window to your kitchen to bring in natural light to reduce your use of electricity. Install a window over the sink where you are doing much task work as well as a major stretch of counter space where you will be doing food prep. Windows with soft curtains will bring in much needed light. In some kitchens you can even consider adding a skylight.

Recycled Cabinets

Get creative with kitchen renos Ottawa contractors offer by seeking out recycled cabinets. You can also search local flea markets and garage sales for interesting shelving, side boards and other furniture pieces that can be repurposed to create upper and lower cabinets as well as islands. Think outside the box and consider items in your home as well. You can also use your existing cabinets and reface them with a new coat of paint or a different colour stain. If you do replace your cabinets ask your contractor to save them and donate them to a salvage company to reduce waste.

The kitchen renovations Ottawa contractors’ offer can be more affordable when you look at eco-friendly options. Repurposing and less waste saves money and the planet.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Ways to Make your Kitchen Look Like New

4 Ways to Make your Kitchen Look Like New

Not everyone has the budget to undergo the complete kitchen renovations Ottawa home owners require to complete their dream home. However, these four simple changes can help make your kitchen look like new:

New Back Splashes

It might seem like an under whelming prospect but back splashes can add a major impact to a dull and outdated kitchen. You can make a minimum investment for maximum impact by choosing even the simplest back splash such as white subway tiles.

However, if you’re interested in making a bigger statement with a major change try mixing designs with matching colours and materials to create a stunning back splash unique to your home. There are so many choices it might be difficult to decide, however once you do decide between glass mosaics to stunning granite or marble you can take your kitchen out of the 80’s with the simple and very affordable addition of a fabulous updated back splash.

New Countertops

Even the most tired kitchen cabinets can suddenly appear brand new with the addition of upgraded countertops. Whether you opt for the stunning sparkle of granite or marble, or go for recycled glass products or even some of the excellent man-made materials, new countertops make an impact and design statement that is not easily ignored. When it comes to the kitchen renovations Ottawa home owners desire most, kitchen counters top the list and will upscale even the most tired kitchen.

Refaced Cabinets

You don’t have to go to the expense of tearing out kitchen cabinets that are in perfect condition but just look a little outdated. Re-facing your cabinets is an affordable and simple way to have a brand new kitchen with very little effort. With multiple design options available, re-facing will make it look like you have undergone a complete kitchen renovation in Ottawa.

Updated Small Appliances

Buying new major appliances can easily break the bank. However, replacing your small appliances won’t. Plan to replace small appliances one at a time starting with your microwave and then doing a new appliance each month. Look for items such as a new range hood, toaster, coffee maker and blender in modern designs using stainless steel or fun colours that will add punch to your kitchen.

These four simple updates will take little investment to make your kitchen look like new.  We’ve got an expert team of specialists, free in-home consultations, and transparent contracts. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

7-ways-to-improve-your-kitchen-renovations

7 Creative Ways to Improve Your Kitchen with Renovations

Ottawa home owners seek kitchen renovations for many purposes, from sheer aesthetics to a need for more space or storage. Here are seven creative ways to improve your kitchen with renovations:

1. Add an Island

When you are in desperate need of a more functional kitchen an island can resolve a number of issues. You can gain plenty of much needed work space, add a place to sit and chat with a few bar stools and can even add appliances such as a cook top, dishwasher or sink. An island is truly one of the best ways to add storage and make a disjointed kitchen more functional.

2. Update your Counters

Updating kitchen counters are perfect simple upgrade renovation that home owners love. Granite is ever popular but there are a number of stunning, less expensive, man-made materials you can choose as well.

New counter tops are a simple and affordable way to improve the look of your kitchen while providing maintenance free work surfaces that will last.

3. Cabinet Re-facing

Not everyone knows that you don’t need to replace all of your counters for a new kitchen look, instead you can always choose cabinet re-facing. Cabinet re-facing is a great way to give your kitchen the face lift it needs without the expensive price tag or the large mess.

4. Reconfiguration

Some kitchens can prove to be terribly dysfunctional and poorly planned. Having a bad kitchen layout can make it impossible to cook without bumping into someone or something. A good kitchen layout can not only make your kitchen more stylish and functional but can also increase the value of your home. Although simple upgrades can be nice some kitchens require an entire overhaul.

5. Backsplash and Flooring

If you are generally happy with your kitchen’s layout and cabinets but feel it needs a little more flare, a new back splash in hand with new flooring can help tie-in your surfaces well together. With good counter tops as a jumping off point you can create a more finished look that will make you smile while you are cooking.

6. Finishing Touches

Even the newest of kitchens can sometimes appear unfinished if you haven’t paid attention to the finite details. Adding recessed cabinet lighting, perfectly matched handles, stunning chandeliers, shiny new sinks, and of course new appliances completes a kitchen with beautiful finishing touches.

7. The Whole Nine Yards

Everyone wants their dream home, and by starting with renovating your kitchen you’re taking one more step closer to your dream. Kitchen renovations give you a complete new look from top to bottom custom designed for your taste and budget.

Seven kitchen renovations Ottawa homeowners can opt for from simple to complicated.  To reach out, schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

7-Things-to-Look-for-in-a-Contractor

7 Things to Look for When Hiring a Contractor

When you’re ready to plan those long awaited renovations, you want everything to go as smoothly as possible. That means when hiring contractors you want to be certain you are looking for all the right qualifications and qualities. Here are a few things to look for when hiring a contractor in Ottawa:

Testimonials or References:


The internet can really help you narrow down your list. One of the things you can do is search “contractors Ottawa” to narrow down your options by looking for websites that feature positive reviews.

Testimonials speak volumes about how well a contractor works and the level of service they provide. You can also ask them for references.

Before and After:


You can also look for before and after shots on a contractors website. Seeing results is always an excellent incentive to go with someone who takes pride in their work and is happy to show it.

Experience:


Even with photos and testimonials it is nice to know your contractor has plenty of experience. Experience not only means knowledge, it also often means they have had years to forge strong relationships with vendors and they can get quality materials at excellent prices.

Estimates:


You want someone who will come out and assess your space to give you an estimate for your project. Never go into a project blind. You might find out the hard way just how expensive something can get without a budget and estimate in place.

Work Ethic:


If you are in contact with a contractor and you have difficulty getting them to return your calls, this does not bode well. You want someone with a strong work ethic who will make themselves available. This will speak to their dependability as well.

Customer Service:


Customer service is extremely important quality to look for when hiring a contractor. You want to work with someone who takes the time to explain everything to you and who will let you know what is happening. You want to be involved in the process and be consulted when key decisions have to be made. Ask them to explain their approach and the process they use on projects so you are comfortable with the way things will work.

Timeline:


Last but not least, make sure they can provide you with an estimated date of completion as well as a timeline.
Looking for these qualities will help you find a contractor who is trustworthy, knowledgeable and experienced.  Please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

Kitchen Renovation Financial Devastation

Your Next Kitchen Renovation, Avoid It Being A Financial Devastation

Kitchen renovations get get complicated, learning the risks can help you to steer clear of the wrong contractor

Kitchen Renovation Financial Devastation

Hiring contractors from Kijiji can lower your up front costs, but that’s just it…..in many cases they end up costing you more.  Avoid kitchen renovation financial devastation.  Too many stories out there of contractors disappearing after collecting the initial payment or having pay another contractor to come in to fix the first contractors mistakes.

Going with the professional is the safe way to keep you costs down and keeping your home in one piece.  A reputable kitchen renovation company will be able to deal with any issues as they arise and they typically offer a wider range of services.

Kitchen renovations are our specialty, our carpenters enjoy these projects the most.  We have a network of excellent interior designers, plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians

Kitchen renovation companies with expensive showrooms typically push you to spend more and many don’t offer free site visit and quote.  The cost difference between the Kijiji contractor and high end kitchen showrooms leaves a middle area where homeowners aren’t being serviced.

Kitchen Renovation Financial Devastation

Ironically RenosGroup fits right into the middle area.  Our pricing aims to be that “middle quote”.  Free in home quotes allows us to be more accurate in our price by looking for potential problem areas while at the client’s home.  Getting accurate measurements is also quite helpful in keeping our quotes accurate.

We offer a detailed, informative and easy to use online product showroom, you can shop from the comfort of your own home

If anyone in the household has any kind of mobility limitations there are many new products and services that can make life much easier.

When it comes to mobility renovations you really want to ensure you hire a company that knows all of the ADA specifications.  RenosGroup is experienced in installing ADA compliant products and can handle any customizations

Don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to get your free in home consultation for your new kitchen renovation.

Remote Control Cabinet Lock

Remote Control Cabinet Lock – Kitchen Renovation Idea

A definite consideration for your next kitchen renovation………A perfect solution for those who have a real hard time controlling those pesky late night snack urges !  Omega Cabinetry now offers a remote control cabinet lock for its cabinetry to protect personal documents, valuables, alcohol and cleaning supplies.  A single keypad operates up to 12 locking devices. The locking device is shown on the company’s Cayhill cabinetry in maple with Magnolia finish.

Update:  Omego no longer seems to offer this product, please call them for more info.  Here is a link to their previous offering….

Remote Control Cabinet Lock

 

To learn more about remote control cabinet locks, or anything about kitchens don’t hesitate to get in touch, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

How to choose the perfect bathtub

Storage Place in your Bathroom

What a fantastic renovation product for those who can’t find any storage place in your bathroom …….which we ALL know is NOT unusual.   This product can even be used in a kitchen pantry for even more storage capability.

ODL Inc. has invented On Hand In-Door Storage and Communication system. The system boasts storage on one side and decoration and communication opportunities on the opposite side. Built into an interior door, the storage side has adjustable shelving and are reversible.  It offers a glass marker board on the other side which has a removable white deco board that can be personalized and used as a marker board using dry-erase markers.

As you can see this can be used in many areas in the house where you need more storage………

Storage place in your bathroom

To learn more about ideas for storage place in your bathroom, don’t hesitate to get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Home Renovation Wish List

Kitchens, Bathrooms Top Home Renovation Wish List

Renovation of a new kitchen or installing a fancy bathroom tops the list of Canadians’ planned renovations, and they’re also likely to be the most profitable projects, according to a new report.

Canadians are expected to spend more than $45 billion on doing up their homes in 2011, up slightly from $44.6 billion in 2010, according to BMO Economics.

The vast majority of that money will be put to jobs inside the house, with 48% saying it will go to a new kitchen renovation and 46% planning to a bathroom renovation, the BMO poll found.

“If you’re undergoing a renovation in order to increase the value of your home, it’s important to understand that not all projects will deliver the same return on your investment,” said Katie Archdekin, head of mortgage products, BMO Bank of Montreal.

Bathroom and kitchen upgrades are the most profitable of home renovations, according to the Appraisal Institute of Canada. Property owners can recoup between 75% and 100% of the cost upon resale, compared with 50% to 100% for a paint job and just zero to 25% for additions such as a swimming pool.

Canada’s property market continues to march ahead despite warnings prices may have peaked and may even be set for a fall. The average house price rose 8.6% in May from the same month last year, according to a recent report by real estate giant Royal LePage.

The BMO poll also found that Canadians may be heeding official warnings on debt and not borrowing to upgrade their homes.

About 57% of poll respondents said they preferred to rely on savings to pay for their upgrades, compared with 19% who said they would take out a loan. Only 5% said they would use a credit card, which tends to be the most expensive form of borrowing.

Other popular home improvements include landscaping, with 39% of homeowners saying they planned changes to the outside of their homes. Thirty-eight percent planned to improve their basements, while 25% are turning their attention to the bedroom.

The least popular home renovation projects included installing a swimming pool and adding an extension, the poll found.

The survey was conducted by Leger Marketing using its online panel, LegerWeb, with a sample of 1,508 Canadian homeowners 25-45 years old.

* Sharon Singleton, Ottawa Sun

When you are ready to upgrade the value of your home, please don’t wait to get in touch for a free in-home consultation, you can call us at (613) 727-9427.

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251 Laurier Ave W, #900
Ottawa, ON K1P 5J6
Phone: (613) 727-9427

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