Ottawa Home Renovations in 2026 | Smarter Planning for Long Term Living
Renovation priorities are shifting in 2026, especially for homeowners in Ottawa. Rising construction costs, an aging housing stock, and shifting lifestyles are prompting people to think more carefully before undertaking renovations. Bigger homes are no longer the automatic goal. Most projects these days are about making layouts smarter, making things last longer, and being flexible. This change is especially clear in Ottawa. Many homes were built many years ago and aren’t suitable for today’s needs. People are staying in their homes longer, working from home more often, and planning renovations that will still make sense years from now. This article talks about how renovations in Ottawa will be different in 2026 and what homeowners should think about before starting a project. Renovating for real life, not resale checklists One clear change we see in 2026 is that people are planning renovations based on how they live their lives, not just how much the house will sell for. Most Ottawa homeowners we speak with are not renovating to sell next year. They are renovating because their home no longer works the way they need it to. That changes the conversation entirely. Instead of asking what is trending, homeowners are asking practical questions: Will this space still work if we work from home longer Can this layout adapt if our family changes Are we fixing real problems or just updating finishes Dining rooms are being repurposed. Spare bedrooms are becoming offices. Main floors are being adjusted to reduce stairs and improve flow. These changes are not flashy, but they make a noticeable difference day to day. Basement renovations built for flexibility Basement renovations continue to be one of the most practical upgrades in Ottawa, especially in 2026. Many homes already have basements that are underused or finished in a way that no longer makes sense. Instead of designing basements for a single purpose, homeowners are planning for flexibility. A basement might be a home office today, a guest space in a few years, and potentially a rental or family suite later on. That means layouts need to allow for change. Common priorities we see include: Sound control for work and privacy Proper insulation and moisture management Space planning that allows future separation Bathrooms designed to meet code from the start In Ottawa, basement renovations also require careful attention to permits and building requirements. Planning correctly upfront avoids delays and expensive changes later. Kitchens focused on layout and storage Kitchen renovations in 2026 are less about showpiece design and more about usability. Many older Ottawa homes have kitchens with awkward layouts, limited storage, or poor workflow. Instead of expanding the footprint, homeowners are choosing to improve what they already have. The most effective kitchen renovations usually focus on: Improving traffic flow Adding functional storage Choosing durable materials Upgrading lighting and ventilation Small changes, like repositioning appliances or reworking cabinetry, often have more impact than adding square footage. From a cost standpoint, this approach is also easier to control. Learn how Ottawa homeowners are improving kitchen layout and storage Bathrooms planned with the future in mind Bathroom renovations are changing as well. Even homeowners who do not currently need accessibility features are planning for them. Walk in showers, wider clearances, and reinforced walls are becoming standard in many renovations. In Ottawa, where many people plan to stay in their homes long term, this approach makes sense. Renovating once with future needs in mind is usually more cost effective than making reactive changes later. Trying to future proof everything at once can lead to overbuilding. The goal is balance, not excess. Home additions with clear purpose Homeowners are no longer just adding space for the sake of adding space; they want to know what problem the addition is actually solving. In 2026, additions are often made to meet certain needs, such as: Living on the main floor to cut down on the need for stairs In law or homes with more than one generation living there Areas set aside for working from home Well-planned additions fit in with the house and the neighborhood. This is especially important in Ottawa’s older neighborhoods where zoning and setbacks are important. Find out when a home addition makes sense for Ottawa homes Planning and budgeting for renovations in 2026 In 2026, homeowners are being more careful when planning renovations. People want fewer surprises, budgets are tighter, and expectations are clearer. Most of the time, the best projects start with honest talks about what is most important and what can be given up. What works best: Setting apart what you need and what you want Doing renovations in phases when needed Getting professionals involved early in the planning Leaving room for things you don’t know, especially in older homes Planning too quickly can cause stress later on. Rushed planning often leads to stress later. Spending more time upfront usually saves time and money overall. View recent renovation projects completed in Ottawa Sustainability that makes practical sense Sustainability in Ottawa renovations has become more practical and less about buzzwords. Homeowners are choosing upgrades that make their homes more comfortable and save them money in the long run, like better insulation, air sealing, and more efficient systems. Finishes that need to be replaced often are being replaced with materials that last a long time. These choices are important for Ottawa’s weather, and they are especially important for older homes. Why local renovation experience matters There are problems that come with renovating in Ottawa. All of these things are important: permits, inspections, older building methods, and neighborhood rules. Homeowners in 2026 value clear communication and experience more than ever. They want help from teams that know a lot about Ottawa homes and can help them make choices that will last. The look of the finished project isn’t the only thing that matters for a successful renovation. It’s about how the house works long after the dust has settled. Frequently Asked Questions About Ottawa Renovations in 2026 How much does a home renovation
Home Renovation Costs in Ottawa
If you’ve decided to renovate your home, you have a huge decision to make. It would be best to find skilled contractors that you can trust with your most precious asset, your home. This can certainly affect your home renovation costs. If you select poorly, you risk incurring severe damages to your house. These include: Major leaks Unsafe electrical work Damage to your foundation Poor craftsmanship These are just a few of the things that can go wrong with an inexperienced crew. That’s why you must seek out the best of the best, like us here at RenosGroup. We’re contractors that you can always rely on in Ottawa, and we’ve got the track record to prove it. So if you want to know what you can expect to pay for a professional renovation, you’re in the right spot. For quick reference, here’s a table breaking down home renovation costs in Ottawa: That will give you the gist of what we charge on average. Read on for more detail on what we charge, why, and a complete list of our services. Contractors in Ottawa: You Get What You Pay For Sure, there are a lot of cheap contractors in the city. Yet, they end up not being worth it for many reasons. For example, here’s a common scenario we encounter all the time. A client calls us in a panic because their newly renovated kitchen is a total mess. The countertops look awful, the tile is wrong, and the kitchen sink sprung a massive leak. Why is it in such disarray? It’s because they went with a cheap contracting service that promised them the world. They claimed they could beautifully renovate their kitchen for next to nothing. Here’s a quick rule of thumb for contractors and pricing; if it sounds too good to be true, it always is. The next thing our client knew, their kitchen became the site of a disaster. Not only that but they got hit with hidden fees and clauses. That’s another common trick of untrustworthy contractors. At the end of the day, they wound up spending thousands more than they would if they had gone with us in the first place. They still had to pay the cheap contractors, plus the hidden fees, plus paying us to fix their mistakes. Trust us; save yourself the hassle and call us at RenosGroup. We charge our prices for a reason because they allow us to ensure premium quality work every time. What to Consider When Researching Contractors We like to educate our clients at RenosGroup. Here are our top factors to consider when looking for a contractor in Ottawa or elsewhere: You get what you pay for in the end. Remember, any contracting service can claim meager prices. The proof is always in the pudding, so be sure to check out reviews before hiring them. Pay close attention to what reviewers have to say about the price quoted versus the price charged. Nine times out of 10, they’re in completely different ballparks. Price isn’t everything. Let’s say that you can hire contractors for dirt cheap rates. Well, dirt cheap rates equal dirt cheap quality. You’ll long forget about how much money you saved when you have to come home to face your dreadful renovations each day. Save yourself the heartache and hire professionals from the get-go! Quality above all else. What matters more than anything is that you receive quality work. When researching contractors, check out user reviews. Please pay close attention to what reviewers say about their craftsmanship. Also, were they professional with the client? Was there a supervisor present at all times to ensure quality? Licensing, insurance, and a legitimate firm that pays taxes. This factor is a huge one. If you choose to do your renovations yourself or hire a crew with no insurance, you could end up on the hook for expensive repairs. If they should make a mistake or do damage to your foundation, it’s up to you to fix it. You also need to hire a legitimate tax-paying company to avoid legal issues. At RenosGroup, we’re licensed, insured, and we always pay our taxes. You’ll be in great hands when you choose us for renovations in Ottawa. Contracts that feature plain English. Shady contractors love to pull tricks with the wording in their contracts, so beware. If the contract seems a little too vague or ambiguous, it’s likely on purpose. That’s so they can sneak in hidden fees and clauses to get more of your money. As a rule of thumb, never sign a contract that you can’t understand. At RenosGroup, all our contracts feature plain English. We spell everything out in as precise terminology as possible. Their level of experience/whether they use subcontractors. When looking for a contracting service, try to find one that doesn’t sub out anything. Of course, we never feature any subcontractors at RenosGroup. That’s because we have a diverse team of experts with varying specialties. If a contractor has to use subcontractors, it’s a tell-tale sign they lack experience. They also give up their quality control whenever they sub out specific jobs. So if you want a fantastic job done no matter what, use us at RenosGroup. Every job that we perform gets done by one of our internal professionals. As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when selecting general contractors in Ottawa. To save yourself some time and hassle, you can use us at RenosGroup. We have all the factors that you see listed above, plus many more. When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, we provide the most robust craftsmanship and quality work. We’ll never cut corners or use subpar materials to save a buck. Instead, all our time, energy, and effort go toward making your dream home a reality. We’re committed to providing you with superb renovations and home additions at reasonable prices. So if you need the best general contractors Ottawa has available, we won’t let
Where to Stay During a Home Renovation in Ottawa
Are you about to undergo a major home renovation in Ottawa with us at RenosGroup? If so, you may want to find somewhere to stay during the construction temporarily. Why’s that? Because significant renovations involve lots of noise and distractions. For example, if we’re adding on to your home, you will hear lots of sawing, hammering, and drilling during the day. Of course, you can choose to stay at home during the renovation process. We’ll do our very best to keep the noise to a minimum, but sometimes that’s unavoidable. That’s why we’re here to provide you with some suggestions for temporary lodgings. It’s our goal to provide you with a seamless experience that doesn’t disrupt your routine. These lodging options will help you maintain peace and quiet while we’re hard at work on your dream home. So if you’re getting ready to hire us for a home renovation in Ottawa, stay tuned to learn where to stay while we work. Options for Temporary Housing During Renovations If you don’t feel like living in a noisy construction zone, then you need to find temporary housing. Finding comfy yet affordable lodging can help you stay sane during the day while we work. At RenosGroup, we offer the best services for home renovation Ottawa has available. Yet, it’s inevitable that renovations take time, especially ones involving construction. Let’s say that you want to add a bathroom to your basement to turn it into a guest suite. It’s a fantastic idea that will add lots of value to your basement. In order to get the job done, we’ll need to break down walls, saw, drill, hammer, and more. So if you don’t feel like turning the TV up to max to compete with the noise, here are some housing options. Short-Term Rental Apartments Is your home renovation in Ottawa going to take longer than a month? If so, then a short-term rental apartment can be your best bet. You can secure a lease for a few weeks or a few months, depending on your needs. Also, lots of short-term rental apartments come fully furnished. That can be a big time saver if you don’t feel like decorating a new place during renovations. After all, it’s only temporary housing, so having existing furniture is a huge plus. Another perk is that the apartment community will have lots of amenities. You’ll be able to get all your laundry done, as well as work out at the gym, walk your dog at the park, and more. An excellent short-term rental apartment can be a nice change of scenery and even feel like a vacation. You’ll be able to enjoy yourself while we knock out your home renovation in Ottawa. We recommend using Rental.ca to find short-term lease apartments in Ottawa. Staying with Friends and Family If you can’t afford to spend any more money on temporary housing, it’s time to call up your folks. As long as you know someone that has a spare room or couch, you should be golden. You can ask your family, friends, neighbors, and more. Friends and family come in handy when renovations present unexpected turns. Let’s say that you didn’t plan on staying outside of your home during renovations. That was until you realized that you and your family couldn’t handle the noise. Another scenario could be that we discover a gas leak or termite infestation, making your home unsafe to stay. That’s when you give your friends and family a call for an emergency place to stay during the renovations. If you don’t feel like putting anyone out or prefer to have your own space, you can use one of our other options. Try an RV or Mobile Home Is your home renovation in Ottawa going to render your home uninhabitable? Then why not make a fun camping trip out of it? You can rent a small RV to park in your backyard or across your streets. If you have water and electricity hookups from your house, then that’s even better. That way, you can hook up your plumbing and electricity in the RV. Your kids will love being able to play outside and then sleep inside of the RV. What would have been a terrible inconvenience turns into a fun adventure for the whole family. Bear in mind; you’ll need to make sure that your property allows for RVs. If not, then you can still use an RV, but you’ll need to park it elsewhere. The same is true for mobile homes. If you’re going to be out of your house for an extended period, renting a mobile home can be wise. Not only are they affordable to rent, but they grant you the freedom of mobility. During your home renovation in Ottawa, you can cruise around the city or even take an extended road trip with your friends and family. Once the upgrades are done, you can drive it back to enjoy your dream home. Find a Vacation Rental Here’s another fun option you can use to entertain your family during renovations. If you want to create a fun vacation-like atmosphere, you can turn to sites like Airbnb and www.vrbo.com/en-ca/ . These sites make it effortless to find temporary housing, even with very short notice. So if you find yourself without a place to stay, you can rely on Airbnb in a pinch. Most of these rentals will come fully furnished, which is very convenient. After all, you don’t want to pack up your entire home and take it with you on the road. Instead, the vacation rental will have everything that you need for your trip. You’ll have: Kitchenware Linens Sofas Chairs TVs Beds Nightstands Dressers More Staying in a vacation rental can be an exciting experience. If you’re going to undergo a home renovation in Ottawa, take a look at some Airbnb’s first. That way, you can determine a fun place to take your family during the renovation work. Another plus is that a lot
What Home Renovations Require a Permit in Ottawa?
Home renovations, home improvements, or home remodeling are processes of improving the design and functionality of a home. It normally involves various projects which help to upgrade the existing condition of a property. Home renovations may involve the interior, exterior, or other sections of the house. Renovating a home is important as it helps to restore its appeal and functionality. If you live in Ontario, Canada, you definitely understand how important the remodeling process is and how you need a permit before you can begin the renovations. But do you know what renovations require a permit? Well, let’s find out. What Home Renovations Require a Permit in Ontario, Canada? A building permit usually includes all aspects that relate to construction, renovation, demolition, and home addition. As per the Ontario Building Code, the validity of building permits is usually within the period of construction. But in case you have finished or started the construction process, then the validity of the permit can go up to 6 months. It should be noted that you can always seek to extend your permit, in case you are not able to complete everything within the stipulated timeframe. Home Renovations that Require a Permit in Ontario You need to apply for a permit if you need to: Change or alter a property structure Construct a detached or attached garage Construct a fireplace or chimney Underpin, repair, or excavate a property foundation Create a home addition to an existing building Construct other accessory buildings that have areas covering more than 10 meters squared. Close or change the size of windows and entrances Add new windows and entrances Home repair or renovation work involving electrical wiring, air conditioning, heating, plumbing, and ventilation. Relocate or remove parts of a building Finish sections of buildings that had been previously left unfinished Construct additional rooms within a building Build a deck that’s attached to a property Construct a new detached deck that is above 60.96 cm from the ground Construct a new swimming pool enclosure Not all types of home renovations need a permit. Some of the home improvements that don’t need the application of a permit in Ontario include: Installation of shelves and cabinets Construction of fences Altering an opening Replacing windows and doors Using the same material to replace shingles, siding, or stucco Painting, patching and decorating How to Apply for the Permit If you live in Ottawa and you’re keen on doing home improvements, then you need to first get a permit. You need to personally submit your application to the customer service counter found at your local district office. This should be within the area where your home is located. Once you have paid the application fee, the building staff will do a comprehensive overview of your home improvement plan. This is a vital procedure that’s put in place by the district to ensure that your plans comply with local zoning by-laws of the Ontario Building Code. In addition to that, the plans have to comply with other stipulated regulations put in place. The best thing about the application is that you can conveniently monitor its status online. Generally, the application process is usually fast, especially for small projects such as home renovations. This is important in ensuring that you start and finish the projects as soon as possible. It takes a few days to review smaller projects while complex projects take longer because they need a comprehensive overview. The municipality offers permits to specific projects and in case you want to carry out other renovations, then you must apply for another permit. Why Are Home Improvements Important? Our needs change with time and this may be in terms of size and design. Besides that, the esthetic appeal of buildings normally declines with time. So, some of the benefits of doing home renovations include: Enhanced Comfortability A home needs to be comfortable for you to enjoy living with it. Because our needs change with time, we need to do home renovations to ensure that we can still enjoy our homes. Better Security As stated above, the aesthetic appeal of a property usually declines as time goes by. After years of use, you will find that a home has started developing cracks on the walls, contains tainted shelves and cabinets, has leaking roofs, and worn-out floors among others. This can pose a serious security threat if you are not careful. However, an effective home renovation project can help to fix such issues and minimize the risk of injuries or theft. Improved Efficiency As technology advances, you find that also equipment previously installed in our homes end up becoming updated. For instance, you will find that there are new lighting systems, window designs, flooring material, and others. To ensure that your home is efficient, you can have a renovation project. This helps to ensure that everything runs efficiently as per your preferences. Understand that some of these renovations can be cost-friendly in the long run. For instance, the installation of new heat pumps can help to significantly reduce your energy costs. Enhanced Home Function As time goes by, you might find that your family is growing or reducing in number. If you start to have kids, you might be forced to create an extra room or story. Alternatively, you might be forced to demolish some room units in case they are not in use or you need a larger space. This is important for functionality to ensure that your home meets your changing needs. Increased Home Value Home renovations can significantly increase the value of your home. If your home has an outdated design, then it will less appealing. However, improving its original design in order to meet the latest market trends in the real estate sector can easily attract a good buyer. It’s worth noting that additions such as basements, garages, and the number of bathrooms can also increase the value of your home. Changing the style of the cabinets, installing new doors and windows are all
Home Renovation During Covid 19
Due to Covid-19, the world has come to a standstill. Plans which people had been waiting to execute for months had fallen apart. This crisis has undoubtedly effected home renovation projects and have abruptly paused the progress in the past. Although some countries have given the green signal for construction work, it is of utmost importance that you only get the job done by a team who understands the severity of the situation. This is why RenosGroup is here to provide you with a home renovation during Covid-19 in Ottawa. We have been in the home renovations and remodeling industry for years. Considering how finding a reliable general contractor has become harder than ever, we are here to satisfy all your home renovation requirements and execute your plans to perfection. It is easy to go wrong with home renovations by picking the wrong contractors. Your months or even years of planning can go down the drain with a single bad decision. Moreover, you would have to bear the financial loss as well. This is why let’s see how you can make your renovation project a success. Things to Consider When Searching for a Home Renovation Contractor 1) Finding Someone Trustable This should go without saying that if you are looking to get home renovation during Covid-19, then it should be done by someone trustable. Far too many people make the mistake of choosing the wrong contractor, and in return, their investment is wasted. Before you trust a contractor, always make sure that you evaluate their previous track record. The kind of services they offer and how open they are to communication. Renovation work can go on for days, weeks, or even months. So, rather than trusting someone who does not even come close to meeting your expectations, it is better to be more careful with your decision from the start. 2) Implementation of SOPs There is nothing more important than your health. This is why SOPs are one thing you should never compromise upon. If you are getting a home renovation during Covid-19, your top priority should be to hire contractors who strictly follow and work according to the SOPs. Professional contractors realize the importance of implementing SOPs. RenosGroup is dedicated to not only transform your house but also prioritize the safety of you and your loved ones. 3) Know your Needs This is a problem that people often face during renovations. Regardless of how professional your contractor is, if you are not sure about what you are looking for, you will ultimately be disappointed by the end-results. You must at least have a vague picture in your mind of what you expect to decide on the scope of work. We are not saying that you should come up with a full blueprint. However, giving the contractors a direction to work towards alone can significantly affect the outcome and make it turn out the way you want it to. 4) Prioritize Quality over Price One common mistake that people make when they are planning to get their house renovated is that they get too caught up in price. While it is true that everyone would want their home remodeling project to be done in the lowest budget possible, it still should not be your only priority. It often happens that when you prioritize price too much, you end up losing sight of what truly matters the most. Sure, you will be able to save a couple hundred or thousand dollars, but in the long run, it is certainly not going to be worth it. Normally, contractors who offer their services at an incredibly low price, often either lack the experience or they cut costs somewhere else. When you are getting your house remodeled or renovated, you want to at least go for a 5-year solution if not more. Therefore, if the price seems too good to be true, then you might have to pause for a moment and re-evaluate your decision. 5) Expand your Search The general rule before you get started with any renovation work is to know the market. If you directly proceed with the decision to get your house renovated, the chances are that you may miss out on much better options. Every contractor will use different building materials and have their own unique approach while working on a project. Expand your search to first understand which approach suits you the most and also get an estimate of the renovation costs. Why Choose RenosGroup? You can find numerous home renovators in Ottawa. However, what makes us truly stand-out is our attention to detail. Our main aim is to exceed industry standards, and that is what helps us stay ahead of the competition. Here’s the process we follow for all of our home improvements/remodeling jobs: Design: Our aim at RenosGroup is to help homeowners achieve their dreams. Most of the time homeowners have a vague picture in their mind on what they are expecting in terms of design. Our goal is to turn that abstract idea into a reality and provide you with satisfactory end-results. Plan: The most important aspect of any renovation project is planning. What truly makes us excel in what we do is that we lay out all the groundwork for the project. Having a direction is essential before you begin with any construction or remodeling job. And this is exactly what we always prioritize. Execute: Once the groundwork is laid out, executing it to perfection is also an equally important step. However, you do not have to worry. We are going to make sure you are involved throughout the process while we complete the job professionally and efficiently. End Result: There is no bigger dream of our team at RenosGroup than to transform the house of homeowners according to their expectations. Our main priority is to provide you with complete satisfaction, and until we have not achieved that, our job remains incomplete. Our Approach towards Home Renovation during Covid-19 Given the circumstances, it
Home Renovation Guide Plan Smart and Avoid Costly Mistakes
Basics You Need to Know About Home Renovation in Ottawa, Canada Are you planning to renovate your home for the first time – or the first time in a long time? If yes, this quick, handy Home Renovation Guide will give you the steps to follow so that your renovation is low-stress, on-budget, and improves both the quality of your life and the value of your home. Enjoy! How to Find an Excellent General Contractor in Ottawa Before beginning any home renovation project, your first step is to find an excellent general contractor to take care of everything for you. The general contractor you use will either make your home renovations a joy or, if you choose poorly, could make the entire project a colossal debacle. Below are the basics to follow when searching: Call several contractors and arrange an interview with all of them. (We recommend you call 3) Check online reviews on review websites like Google, HomeStars, Trusted Pros, Yelp, and others. The more positive the reviews, and the more of them you find, the better. Also check out the companies replies Surf the contractor’s Facebook page and see how they interact with customers. This can give you a great deal of insight into how they deal with the public. Look out for companies with websites or social media pages that only have 3 or 4 portfolios/pictures of their work. You don’t want to get stuck with a company that has only done 3 bathrooms….. Ask family, friends, and colleagues who have had home renovations or a home addition done in Ottawa, who they would recommend. If they can start right away, keep looking. The best general contractors are always busy and will need to schedule your renovations to fit their work schedule. Set Aside Extra Funds for Hidden Surprises During Your Home Renovation Here’s the thing; there can be a surprise or two when having a basement renovation done in your home. The same goes for kitchen, bathroom, and other renovations. No matter how much you plan, there can be unforeseen problems, changes, and repairs that need to be made, which will increase your final cost. For this reason, we recommend setting aside 10% over and above your home renovation budget. That way, when those surprises happen, you’ll be financially ready to handle them. Don’t Be Fooled by Suspiciously Low Bids One of the biggest causes of stress when renovating a home is being told that the cost will be higher than the contractor told you at the project’s onset. In some cases, the cost can be significantly higher, especially if the contractor gave you a much lower bid than the other bids you received. Two different things cause this scenario. The first, and the worst, is that the contractor purposely underbid to get the job. The second, which is still wrong, is when the person who put together the bid either was new at their job or missed something that the contractor should have included. Either of these two scenarios, a purposefully low bid or a mistakenly low bid, can cause massive headaches down the road once your renovation project is already underway. In most cases, you’ll need to pay the difference or else be left with renovations that are only partially completed. Don’t Put Down a Large Deposit on Your Renovation Project One of the warning signs to look for when hiring general contractor is one who asks for more than 10% down to get the project started. The reason some do is a bit nefarious; unfortunately, they may need the money to finish another person’s renovation project. One caveat; if you’ve asked for expensive fixtures in your home renovation project, your contractor may ask for a 50% deposit for those items. Make Sure the General Contractor you Choose Is Insured This may seem trivial but, at the end of the day, it could be huge. It’s vital you make sure your general contractor has insurance to cover any accidents that might occur during the project. If they don’t, the responsibility for any accidents and injuries could rest on your shoulders alone, which would be very bad, financially speaking. Our suggestion; ask to see their insurance policy and ask for a copy of it as well. Be Prepared for a Bit of Extra Stress One thing that many homeowners don’t plan on is the extra stress that home renovations cause. The truth is, when you have kitchen renovation done, your kitchen will be out of commission, at least for a few weeks, if not a month. The same can be said for a basement renovation or bathroom renovation (although the kitchen is usually the worst). Disruptions, dust, and strangers traipsing through your home can be a very stressful time for many folks, especially children. Planning for this extra stress can be helpful, such as a day out at the zoo or having meals sent to your home. Speaking of planning, negotiating the rules of your home with the renovation crew is vital and needs to be done on day one. For example, will the crew use your bathroom, or will they bring a porta-potty? Will they clean at the end of each day? What hours will they arrive and leave every day, and how they’ll communicate if they’re going to be early or late? Your home addition will be much less stressful if you work these things out at the start of the project. Last Words If you follow the basics above, ask questions (and get answers to those questions), it will usually go off without any significant problems or stress. We recommend staying in constant contact with the head contractor during the project and letting them know of any issues or concerns right away. Do these things, and all of your home renovation projects should come to a very satisfactory conclusion. Don’t wait to get started get in touch, give us a call today at (613) 727-9427 or use our online form.
5 Small Ways to Prepare Your Home for the New School Year
Back to school time can be a little hectic and stressful for everyone involved. These tips are ways to prepare your home for the new school year and get everyone back on a regular schedule with minimal aggravation. Create A Study Space First things first, you’ll need to find a place in the home to create a space for them to work and study. Often their bedroom is the perfect spot, so you may have to do a little re-organizing to fit a desk and chair. If their bedroom is too small to create a work station, consider setting one up in the den, finished basement, or another quiet area of the home that doesn’t have a TV or other distractions readily available. Make The Space Fully Functional Your goal is to get your kids to work from an established space instead of from their lap or in front of the TV. To keep them focused and to spark their creativity, space will need to be comfortable and functional. You can also help to boost their productivity by putting up a pinboard or calendar to help them keep track of their deadlines, trips and after-school activities. Establish Limits Even when you create a study area for your kids, your home can quickly turn into their dumping ground if you let them. To avoid having papers, binders, backpacks, and books left scattered in every room of the house once school starts, you should establish simple limits to where your kids can work and study. Creating specific areas for their shoes and sports equipment will also help to keep your home under control. Build Some Storage Space Another way to ensure your home and their study space stay tidy and organized is to build some shelves or drawers for them to store their books and supplies neatly. If you’re tight on space, consider adding shelving in the closet area, drawers underneath the desk, an ottoman that could double as a storage trunk or a wall rack behind the door for your kids to utilize. Get A Routine Going It’s important to establish a routine early that will teach your kids how to keep themselves organized and tidy. A great way to do this is to create a checklist for them to follow every morning and before they go to bed. This could include things like putting shoes away, tidying up desk area, putting backpack by the front door and so on. Then give them an incentive for getting their checklist done like extra time for their video games or on social media sites. At the RenosGroup.ca, we can help you build out the perfect study space. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today!
9 Tips and Tricks to Prepare Your Home for Summer
It’s easy to underestimate the amount of work it takes to get your home looking refreshed, clean and presentable after the messy winter weather. That’s why we always recommend getting a head start as early as possible so you can get it done to embrace and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Learn some of our top tips and tricks to prepare your home for the summer season. Go Deep With Your Spring Cleaning With so much to tackle after the winter, it can be overwhelming when you realize how much maintenance and work your home really needs. The problem is when there’s so much to do, many of us tend to skim over the surface and avoid those deeper levels of grime that could really use some attention. To save you from having to deal with those chores during the sunny weather, break up your to-do list into baby steps so you can focus on cleaning one area at a time thoroughly so you won’t have to keep sweeping and mopping as much once the summer sun shines in. Revive Your Garden Now This time of year is also ideal to start prepping your garden beds. And since outdoor spaces play such an integral role for lounging and entertaining during the summer, you want to make sure it’s ready to show off well ahead of your first barbeque. Carve out one weekend to rake, mow, trim, plant and get your landscape summer ready. Then add some extra touches to transform your garden into a cozy and inviting space. You can do this with simple additions like installing pot lights in the deck or placing a fire pit in the backyard. Be Prepared for Guests The warmer weather gets people out and about and more eager to pop in for a visit, which is why you should always be prepared for guests. Entertaining is what this season is all about, so stock up some of the essentials you’ll need, and keep your interior and exterior tidy so you’re not scrambling when there’s an unexpected knock at the door. Perform Preventative Maintenance The combination of snow, ice and frigid cold temperatures over the course of the winter can wreak havoc on certain areas of the home. That’s why preventative maintenance is always important to do after each winter. We recommend having your air conditioner, HVAC unit, eaves troughs, lawn equipment and even your grill looked at. If there’s any damage to these areas, like your A/C, fixing it now can prevent a lot of sweaty aggravation once the weather heats up. Take Advantage of Summer Discounts If you need your carpets cleaned, windows washed or gutters cleared out, hire a company during the summer. Since this is their slower season, many companies usually offer discounted rates. So whatever you need to be done, book it during the summer! Think Ahead to Prevent Water Damage After the big winter thaw and added moisture from spring, water damage is one of the biggest issues homeowners face during this time of year. Plus, the hot and humid summers can conjure up some massive storms which can cause flooding. To avoid any water damage, think ahead by having any vulnerable areas inspected and repaired. This includes the roof, windows, gutters, sump pumps, foundation and any noticeable cracks. Tackling these areas now can prevent water damage and save you thousands of dollars in repairs. Repair Interlock Though interlock stones may be durable, they can still end up chipped and loose after the winter. Ignoring any issues can make your walkways unsafe, especially during the winter season when the ground is covered in snow and ice. To keep the exterior of your home safe and looking sharp, get any damaged patio stones replaced. Update Your Bathroom or Kitchen Seeing your kitchen or bathroom in the summer sunlight can make you realize how badly they need updating — if this sounds like you, be sure to book in your reno early so you can get these staple areas of the home done, dusted and looking summer ready for hosting family and friends. Book Your Home Addition Whether you’re planning to rent out an income suite or just add on more space for your growing family, now’s the time also to organize, plan and book your contractors well in advance. Having to face these renos once the warm weather tapers off is never an enjoyable experience. Plan ahead of time with these tips and tricks to prepare your home for summer. And when you need repairs, renovations or maintenance done around the home, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 Our team at Renosgroup can tackle all of your household projects!
Why Sunrooms are One of Our Favourites
Sunrooms always become a favourite spot in the home each time we install one. But even if you’ve been contemplating an addition, it can be difficult to know where to start since it is a significant undertaking that needs to be done just right. At RenosGroup, we’ve helped many homeowners make their dream projects come to life, and we can help you too! Find out more about why sunrooms are one of our favourites and why we guarantee they’ll be yours too. Add More Space Adding more space to your home is easier and more affordable than ever with a sunroom. In addition to adding more value to your home, it will also cost you much less than a standard addition since you don’t have to pay for brick and mortar, which can cost thousands. It’s Customizable We can create just about whatever vision you have. There are a variety of design options and materials that you can choose from that give you the flexibility with the design. A Comfortable Investment A sunroom is one of the best investments you’ll make when it comes to home projects because they always get used! With high-quality workmanship, including superior glass panes, you can enjoy the outdoors without any of the aggravating aspects, like pesky bugs flying into your food or drink during the summer. Here, you can take in the breeze without being pestered. Enjoy It Any Time of Year With weather-sealed windows that can keep the elements out, you can take advantage of your sunroom all year long. During those magical snowy days, you can perch by the window, enjoying the heat while you take in the magical winter wonderland outside. And, of course, during the spring, summer and fall, you won’t have to rush inside during the rain or stay out in the blazing sun. With your personalized enclosure, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, even when it’s too messy to stroll outside. Relax and Rejuvenate It’s no surprise that being surrounded by the outdoors can help us relax, recharge and even lower our anxiety and blood pressure. And sometimes, when you’re feeling cooped up and stressed out, being able to retreat into your sunroom can make a world of difference to help calm you down and fight those winter blues. Our team provides the best quality workmanship and excellent customer service that you can count on. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427
Mobility Limitations? No Problem.
Most homes are just not suited for people who have physical limitations or challenges. Traditional home builders never thought to consider the needs of the elderly or disabled, which has resulted in many people with mobility limitations feeling unsafe living in their own home. If you’re one of these people and you’ve been recently asking yourself whether it makes sense to relocate, we can help you avoid a painful move altogether. At RenosGroup.ca, we specialize in accessibility renovations that will change the design of your home to adapt to your needs. Mobility limitations? No problem. We understand what you’re going through and want to help improve the safety and accessibility of your home. With a few minor modifications, we can help you feel comfortable in your own home. Here’s how: Add More Space There are many people out there who don’t have access to all the rooms in their homes. That’s because most homes were not built to accommodate a walker or wheelchair to move easily from room to room. That’s where we come in! With a few design changes, like wider doorways, we can help create more space and give you access to your entire home. You shouldn’t feel restricted by your own home. Wider doorways are just the beginning! Here are some additional ways to create more accessible living space: Open floor plans: Consider knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create seamless transitions between rooms, offering easier navigation and increased light. Ramp up entrances: Replace steps with gentle ramps for effortless entry and exit. Install automatic doors: Make entrances a breeze with hands-free door openers. Widen hallways and doorways: Ensure ample space for maneuvering wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. Eliminate thresholds: Smooth transitions between rooms prevent tripping hazards. Lower kitchen counters and cabinets: Accessible workstations promote independence in daily tasks. Rearrange furniture: Create clear pathways and avoid crowding furniture for easy movement. Provide You With More Accessibility Our team can help redesign your kitchen and storage areas to give you more accessibility. We can install new counters, table tops, cabinets, and storage areas to make it easier for you to reach whether you’re sitting or standing. Closets can also be adjusted to have a widened door, lowered shelving, and an easy to reach switch. Eliminate Bathroom Safety Issues Taking a shower can be increasingly dangerous when you have a mobility issue. We can modify your bathroom to help prevent an injury and improve your overall accessibility in your most private space. We’ll take the time to learn about your unique needs so we can renovate your bathroom to suit your individual requirements and safety needs. Some of the modifications that are possible include adding more full doors, swing away hinges, easy to grip handrails, non-slip floors, shower stall or bathroom seats, higher toilet seats, hand held shower devices, and lowered sinks, and mirrors. Here’s how we can help: Enhanced shower safety: Replace bathtubs with walk-in showers featuring low thresholds, non-slip flooring, and easy-to-grip grab bars for stable movement and confident showering. Improved accessibility: Install wider doorways, swing-away hinges, and barrier-free design elements to ensure effortless navigation with wheelchairs or walkers. Seating for comfort and stability: Equip your shower with built-in benches or removable shower seats for safe and comfortable bathing. Height adjustments: Raise toilet seats for easier sitting and standing, and lower sinks and mirrors for convenient use. Handheld shower devices: Increase maneuverability and control with easy-to-grip handheld showerheads. Improved lighting: Enhance visibility and reduce fall risks with brighter, strategically placed lighting. Beyond safety, we focus on comfort and style. We offer a wide range of design options to create a bathroom that reflects your taste and personality, ensuring it complements your home’s aesthetics. Don’t settle for feeling vulnerable in your own bathroom. Visibility Concerns We also offer a wide range of accessibility and safety products for those with visibility concerns. With a few modifications, we can quickly improve the lighting, especially in darker areas, by using reflective non-slip tape, non-slip floor coverings that will allow you to move around your home with ease. Beyond basic safety, we focus on creating a welcoming and inviting environment. We offer design consultations to integrate these modifications seamlessly into your existing décor, ensuring your home remains stylish and comfortable. Finding a contractor who specializes in accessibility renovations and understands your mobility issues is often a challenge. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place! At RenosGroup.ca, we are Ottawa’s only specialist in providing mobility limitation renovations. Mobility limitations? No problem…..Don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427. Our expert and compassionate team will carefully listen to all your needs and find the solutions that will help improve your lifestyle and ability to live in your home.