Ottawa

Which Room Should You Remodel First?

Which Room Should You Remodel First?

Getting ready to remodel a portion of your home can be exciting, but it might also be somewhat stressful, too. Remodelling anxiety happens to those who do not adequately prepare before a renovation. Simply figuring out which room to remodel first can take a long time, especially when you have no idea what a complete remodeling project entails.

How to Figure Out Which Room to Remodel First

The first thing you need to do when remodelling your home in Ottawa is to decide which room you want to start with first. This can be somewhat difficult. In order to simplify things a bit, narrow down your choices by considering the following:

The Amount of Traffic in the Room

Think about how many people walk in or through a given space before you decide to remodel it. If it is a space in your home that is used quite a bit, then you might want to think about doing that room either first or last. A room that is needed in order to carry out your day-to-day routine might not be the best place to start. Because some renovation projects can be difficult, it might be a better idea for you to begin remodelling in a space that is somewhat secluded just in case it takes longer than anticipated.

Why Does Foot Traffic Matter?

  1. Prioritization: High-traffic zones like kitchens or entryways deserve strategic planning. Disrupting these daily essentials can throw your routine into disarray. Consider tackling less-used rooms first to minimize chaos.
  2. Material Selection: A busy hallway needs durable, easy-to-clean flooring, while a spa-like bathroom can handle more delicate options. Matching materials to traffic patterns ensures longevity and reduces frustration.
  3. Project Duration: Renovations rarely stick to the script. A heavily used space taking longer than expected can derail your whole household. Opting for a quieter room offers a buffer against delays.
  4. Noise and Dust: Remember the construction zone vibes? Imagine that in your bustling living room! Starting in a less-frequented space offers a haven from the din and mess.

Basement Renovation Ottawa - Walk-Out Basement

The Number of Issues that Need Fixed

Any room that needs a lot of work to get it where you want it will take extra time to complete. Keep this in mind when deciding which room to start with, and don’t forget to realistically consider how much time and energy the project is going to take. If your space is in need of a lot of work, you might want to get it out of the way first. On the other hand, starting on a room needing lots of remodelling may allow you to get it out of the way so you can concentrate on more important things.

1. The “Get it Out of the Way” Option:

    • Pros: Tackle the behemoth first and enjoy the satisfaction of crossing it off your list. This frees up your mental energy and allows you to focus on other projects without its shadow looming.
    • Cons: Extensive renovations can be emotionally draining. Be prepared for potential delays and unforeseen challenges. Ensure you have the stamina and support system to weather the storm.

2. The “Start Small, Gain Momentum” Option:

    • Pros: Begin with a less demanding room to gain confidence and experience. This empowers you to approach the fixer-upper with a honed skillset and newfound enthusiasm.
    • Cons: Living with an unfinished and potentially messy space can be inconvenient. Ensure you have alternative arrangements (like temporary kitchens or bathrooms) for crucial areas.

The Cost to Remodel Versus What Your Budget Allows

Remember that most remodelling projects cost a lot of money. Not only that, but unforeseen problems may arise causing you to spend even more. When deciding which room to begin remodeling first, think about how much capital you have to invest and ask yourself if you can feasibly complete the project while staying within budget. If you are not sure how things will add up, have a professional give you a cost estimate before you begin.

 

  • Budget Basics: Knowing Your Numbers

    Before diving in, get crystal clear on your financial limitations. Consider:

    • Available Capital: This is your war chest – the total amount you’re comfortable spending. Be realistic and factor in potential buffer funds for unforeseen expenses.
    • Project Costs: Research average costs for your desired renovations. Consult professionals for accurate estimates specific to your room and needs. Remember, unforeseen problems can arise, so add a contingency buffer to your estimations.
    • Financing Options: Explore financing options like loans or credit cards (use responsibly!

Remember, choosing the right room for your initial remodel is a blend of practicality and passion. By understanding your budget, exploring cost-saving options, and prioritizing what truly matters to you, you can set the stage for a financially feasible and emotionally rewarding home transformation!

Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 for a free no-obligation estimate on your home renovation project.

 

How to Choose the Right Fixer Upper

How to Choose the Right Fixer-Upper

Buying a move-in-ready home is nice, but it’s not always in the budget. Sometimes, you need to buy a fixer-upper and renovate it to your unique standards. This can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be stressful when you don’t know which property to buy. Let’s explore the factors that should go into choosing the right fixer-upper for your needs:

Location, Location, Location

The first rule in real estate is to think about the location of the property you want to buy.  Ideally, the best investment is the worst house in the best neighborhood. After you fix it up, the home then becomes part of the high-end landscape surrounding it. This translates into higher property values and increased resale possibilities. When planning your next hunt for the best fixer-upper, be sure to think about where the property is located so that you can buy something in a favourable or up-and-coming neighbourhood in Ottawa.

Money Left for Renovations

The point of buying a fixer-upper is to invest your money into a property that has the potential to be something great. Try to remember that when negotiating the cost. You will need to have enough money left after you buy the home to complete all the necessary renovation projects on it. If you spend too much on your initial purchase, you could run out of funds halfway through your renovation. Instead, find a home that is both fixable and affordable.

Your Specific Needs in a Home

At the end of the day, what matters most when purchasing a fixer-upper is how well the finished property will fit into your plans for it. Before you make anything official, be sure that the home can be feasibly transformed into what you desire. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I making this an income property?
  • Will the home be used as my personal residence?
  • Will I be able to reconfigure the layout the way I want?
  • Can I afford everything that needs to be done?
  • Are there other options in my budget that are fit for my needs without needing so much work?

*Tip: If you still can’t make up your mind, perhaps ask a friend or family member to help you decide. Bring in your Ottawa contractor for consultation about the estimated renovation costs.

Once you’ve settled on your fixer-upper, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to start the renovation process. In no time, that fixer-upper will be turned into a breathtaking home.

 

5 Surprising Things About Your Home Renovation That You Should Be Prepared For

5 Surprising Things about Your Home Renovation That You Should Be Prepared For

If you are thinking about renovating your home, there are a few things you need to know so that you can prepare yourself for what’s about to happen. Home renovations are supposed to be fun and exciting, but they can be stressful at times. In order to combat the anxiety, you will have to equip yourself with knowledge about the following 5 surprising things about your home renovation that you should be prepared for

  1. Hidden Problems with the Structure

Whether you get your home inspected or not, there are certain things that you cannot see until the renovation begins. Cracks and weakness in the foundation are not uncommon finds when working on a home, and neither are spots of mould or holes wherein pests have made their nest. When planning a home renovation, be sure to prepare yourself for those things and make room for necessary repairs in the budget.

  1. Changes in Your Design Concept

There may come a time when you have to rethink the layout of your proposed renovation. For example, if there are load-bearing walls in your way then you may not be able to do what you want to do. It may be necessary for you to restructure your design concept, which could ultimately affect the layout of the rest of your home. To save yourself some stress, draw up two or three different designs so that you have a backup plan. This is where Ottawa home renovation experts can really help you narrow down a layout that works in reality, not just on paper.

  1. Varying Opinions about the Work

Everyone has his or her own opinion about what should or should not be done to a space. Be prepared to hear varying points of view before, during, and after a home renovation. Try to stay positive at this time, and remember that your renovation should reflect your vision, not that of an opinionated in-law. Besides, a good design will make naysayers eat their words.

Surprising Things about Your Home Renovation

  1. Blowing the Budget

If you are not careful, you could go over budget during a lengthy home renovation project. However, planning for the unexpected and adding a contingency to your spending limit can help matters quite a bit. Be prepared to go over budget if your home needs vital repairs before design changes can take place.

  1. Feeling Overwhelmed

You might start to feel a bit flabbergasted throughout it all, but try not to lose hope. Renovations can be taxing and cost a penny, just remember how great everything is going to look in the end. Cutting corners or going with the lowest bidder contractor will only result in disappointment in the end.  other 7 surprising things about your home renovation

At RenosGroups.ca, we’re happy to guide you through the renovation process before a single hammer is struck.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

How to Make a Home Safe for an Aging Parent

How To Make A Home Safe For Aging Parent

It is human nature to care for our parents. When parents get older, there is the prospect of them moving back in with their kids. While the children may be more than willing to accept their parents into their home, their house may be less forthcoming. Like it or not, many homes in the Ottawa are not safe for aging parents. This becomes abundantly clear when tackling issues of mobility within the house. With that in mind, let’s review some of the ways you can make your home safer for an aging parent.

1. Design With A Purpose

Mobility within a home serves a variety of purposes. Chief among these is the ability to navigate the house in case there is an emergency. Having a clear fire-escape route should be your top priority when designing around an aging parent. This can mean a wide range of things, including proper ramps if your parent is in a wheelchair, a widening of the doors, and fire extinguishers. Also, consider how reliable your handrails are and possibly replace them with a sturdier alternative that an aged loved one can utilize with all their weight if the need arises.

2. Consider Lighting

Even the most mobile houses can become dangerous if poorly lit. With this in mind, try to make hallways in particular well lit. This will help aging parents navigate the house and reduce the chances of falls or other injury. In addition to hallways, focus your attention on porches, outside walkways, and stairways. Having more than one light switch can make accessing the lights easier for an aged parent, saving them the risk of navigating a room in the dark while looking for a switch.

3. Make Your Bathroom Friendly

When responding to the call of nature, aging parents may be in a rush to use the restroom. Making your bathroom friendly is one of the best ways to also make your home safe. Installing grab handles in the bathroom is a popular and easy way to make the bathroom more accommodating. Non-skid mats are also a cheap and effective way to make the bathroom less slippery, reducing the chances of a slip and fall. Finally, consider things like shower chairs and bath benches for when they shower as this can reduce the stress they feel and reduce their risk of injury as well.

RenosGroup.ca are the mobility renovations experts in Ottawa. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today for a free in-home consultation.

The Pros And Cons Of Home Renovation Versus A Home Addition

The Pros And Cons Of Home Renovation Versus A Home Addition

Home renovation is a popular pastime in Canada. With the rise of DIY work, many homeowners have taken remodeling and renovation into their own hands, making necessary improvements that not only update dated designs but also potentially increase value by adding additional square footage. Another option many homeowners struggle with is the idea of home additions. While more intensive than remodeling work, home additions can provide space that would otherwise not be there. Let’s take a moment to review the pros and cons of each while examining cost, time, and need.

1. Cost

Generally speaking, a home addition will cost more than home remodeling. This is because an expansion will require the building of a support structure, exterior, and roofing. Renovation, on the other hand will be significantly less as the walls and ceiling will already be established. While the addition of a window may influence the exterior of the house, the costs will still be generally lower.

That being said, not all home additions have to be expensive. Some families utilize existing decks to become the baseboards for an expansion, saving on the costs of building work required. However, when considering the labour, the supply costs, and any permits you are looking to get, the costs can run generally high.

2. Time

Home renovations generally take less time than home additions. One of the chief reasons for this comes down to labour. With a home renovation, you may be able to do the majority of the work on your own schedule, completing the task quickly or slowly. However, with home additions, you will often have to rely on other people, like contractors to come in on their schedule to help get the work done. This can raise additional problems especially if the seasons are less than ideal and expansion work exposes an interior part of your home.

3. Need

Home renovations can only go so far when it comes to fulfilling your need or the needs of potential buyers. A small house will still be small, even if you knock out walls and open the space up. While renovation work may require less time and money, it does not provide the same versatility that an expansion would provide. Along with increasing the footprint of the house, an expansion can be done in such a way as to provide space where it is needed the most, making everything more open as a result.

Talk to RenosGroup.ca to discuss whether a home renovation or home addition is more appropriate for your needs.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

The Risks of a DIY Bathroom Renovation

The Risks Of A DIY Bathroom Renovation

When treated right, your home becomes a valuable investment that will serve you well for years to come. With many people looking to improve the quality and price of their home, things like interior repairs and renovations are becoming increasingly popular. As much of this work is being done by the homeowners themselves, an entire cottage industry of “do it yourselfers” (or DIY) has emerged.

While DIY is a great way to save money and invest your personal time in your house, it is not without its risks. In particular, work done to renovate bathrooms can be particularly challenging. If you are considering DIY work regarding your bathroom, then let’s take a moment to review some of the risks you should consider.

1. Underlying Pipes

Changing up or expanding a bathroom means dealing with the underlying pipework necessary for running water in and out of your bathroom. While this may seem simple on paper, there is a lot to learn when it comes to pipework and water that few people consider. From proper water pressure to running the lines correctly, there are many chances to accidentally flood the bathroom and your home if you are not careful. As always, be sure to turn off the water line into your home prior to removing water fixtures as you may end up with either leaks or flooding.

2. Time

People prefer DIY home renovations because it saves them money. However, what it saves in money it will cost in time. If you have more than one bathroom in your house, then this won’t be a problem. However, if you need to rely on the bathroom that you are renovating, then prepare for the hassle that will come with utilizing a space that is transitioning. This means increased risk of potential damage to both you and your bathroom during this time.

3. Off-Centre

While minor, there is the risk that your eventual plans are going to be off when practically applied to the space due to limitations that only become apparent once you are knee-deep in the bathroom renovation. While some people live to problem solve, others will find it frustrating when a fantastic concept falls to pieces due to unforeseen limitations on placement. With this in mind, be sure to provide everything you use in the bathroom with its necessary space. One of the most common problems seen with DIY bathroom renovations is a tight clustering of different things around a particular spot.

To avoid all of these DIY mistakes altogether, enlist the help of a professional bathroom renovations contractor like RenosGroup.ca.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Bathroom Renovation Trends

Biggest Bathroom Renovation Trends

Every year, the home and garden website Houzz conducts a survey measuring the behaviours and interests of North American homeowners. So, what trends do we see in bathroom renovations this year? Are homeowners expanding bathrooms or working with the existing footprint? What are the biggest bathroom renovation trends?

Supersize Showers

Even if the footprint remains the same, homeowners want supersized showers, especially in the master bathroom. In fact, 84% of homeowners upgraded their master showers during the bathroom renovation. 30% of master bath showers were increased by 50% of more in size.

Mobility Renovations

The Baby Boomer generation is three times more likely to install grab bars and other accessibility features than younger generations. However, other features of mobility renovations like hand-held shower heads, shower seats, non-slip flooring, and thermostatic mixers were popular regardless of the age of the homeowner.

What Matters Most in Terms of Design

Most homeowners reported that they wanted their renovated bathrooms to be stylish and beautiful (83%) or to have a spa-like atmosphere (41%). Other popular design elements include a reflection of personality (38%), abundant natural light (34%), making a statement (23%), being energy efficient (22%), being eco-friendly (8%), and being romantic (7%).

What Matters Most in Terms of Function

55% of homeowners wanted a bathroom that was easy to clean (55%), while 53% of respondents wanted easy storage. Other important functions include good lighting (47%), compatible for two people (46%), easy to get ready in (36%), relaxing (34%), and making the homeowner look good (2%).

How Often Are Bathrooms Renovated?

According to the survey, 46% of homeowners last upgraded the bathroom between 16 to 30 years ago. 30% of full baths were last upgraded more than 30 years ago! Some homeowners have the renovation bug, though, with 4% of full baths being remodeled under five years after the last renovation.

What Style is Most Popular?

Contemporary is the most popular style (25%), followed by traditional (21%), and transitional (18%). Other popular styles include modern (10%), eclectic (5%), craftsman (5%), and beach (3%).

Flooring & Walls

Ceramic was the most popular title choice, followed closely by porcelain. Other common flooring options included marble, wood, travertine, and linoleum. Paint was the overwhelming favourite wall finish (71%), but other common choices included ceramic tile, porcelain tile, marble, wood, travertine, and wallpaper.

Lighting

Many homeowners placed an emphasis on good lighting in the bathroom. The most common options were wall sconces (60-64%) and recessed lighting (44-61%), followed by lighted mirrors (14-16%), chandeliers (5-15%), and pendant lamps (9-12%). However, in 12% of masters and 17% of family baths, the lighting was not upgraded at all.

Whether you want to follow the popular trends or set out on  your own path, RenosGroups.ca is here to help make your bathroom renovation dream a reality. To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Additions That Add the Most Value

5 Home Renovations and Additions That Add the Most Value

Ottawa homeowners plan renovations and additions to address their changing lifestyle or family needs. However, improving the resale value of the home should also be a consideration. Here are five home renovation and additions that add the most value to the home:

Kitchen Renovation

According to HGTV, homeowners can expect to recoup between 60 to 120% of the cost of the kitchen renovation when it comes time to sell. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and no one wants to see an outdated kitchen with linoleum countertops, scuffed flooring, and appliances that could break down at any minute. A kitchen remodel can be as simple as replacing hardware, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and giving cabinets and walls a fresh coat of paint. Of course, a fully upgraded kitchen renovation from a trusted Ottawa contractor like RenosGroup.ca would wow potential buyers and add a lot of value to your home.

Bathroom Remodel or Addition

Bathroom additions pay back 80% to 130% of their cost when it comes time to sell the home. Nobody wants to walk into a humid and cramped bathroom that hasn’t been upgraded in thirty years. Whether you are updating the family bathroom, creating a stunning master bedroom, or adding a powder room on the main floor, all of these upgrades pay off when it’s time to sell. Home buyers expect to have at least two bathrooms in a home, and a master bathroom is always a desired bonus.

Finished Basement

Homeowners can expect to recoup 70 to 80% of the cost of a finished basement renovation. Don’t turn off home buyers with a perfect home that has an unfinished basement. Your basement can house a media room, guest bedroom, kid’s play area, exercise room, laundry room, or even an income suite.

Deck Addition

Remember, the value of your property extends beyond the home itself. Upgrade your outdoor space with a deck addition, which returns 65 to 95% on investment. Enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation with an outdoor kitchen, built-in seating, outdoor dining area, and more. When it’s time to sell, you’ll be glad you made the upgrade.

Full Home Addition

Sometimes, space is the biggest problem of all. The return on investment will vary depending on the size and function of the full home addition. Create a master suite, in-law suite, great room, or transform the layout of your home with the extra space.

For more inspiration, contact Ottawa contractor Renosgroup.ca to find out which home renovation or additions that add the most value to your home.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427.

Staying Safe in the Bathroom

10 Handy Tips for Staying Safe in the Bathroom

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada and Statistics Canada, more seniors are injured at home than at any other location. About half of all seniors falls happen at home. Environmental hazards in the home are the most common environmental risk factor for falls, and nowhere are these hazards more prominent than in the bathroom. Here are ten handy tips so you can stay safe and prevent falls in your home bathroom:

Throw Out Throw Rugs


According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, throw rugs are the number one cause of household falls in the US. If you like the look of the rugs and don’t want to remove them, you can secure the rugs in place with slip-resistance backing or double-sided tape.

Non-Slip Shower


Water and soap are both slippery, which makes taking a shower a pretty big risk for falls. For this reason, you should place a non-slip mat or anti-slip shower treads on the floor of the tub or shower. If you plan a mobility renovation, you can choose to have slip-resistant tiles installed. These tiles are coated with an abrasive material for safety purposes.

Clean Tub


If you don’t clean your tub regularly, soap scum can build up and make the tub slippery. So clean it on a weekly basis. As an added safety bonus, you’ll also clear away mould and mildew growth.

Dry Floor


It’s no surprise that water on the floor creates a hazardous condition. Make sure you keep your bathroom floor dry and mop up any wet spots if they appear. To prevent water from the shower dripping on the floor, purchase a weighted shower curtain.

Mobility Renovations


Grab bars and rails around the toilet, shower, and tub are important safety features, especially for seniors. They help you maintain your balance so you don’t fall. If you do accidentally slip, you can reach out and grab a bar to regain your balance. Remember, items like towel bars are NOT substitutes for proper grab bars.

Lighting


You should place nightlights in the hallway to easily guide you toward the bathroom at night. Within the bathroom, place a nightlight or install an illuminated switch so you can safety turn on the light and conduct your business.

Higher Toilet Seat


Trying to crouch down onto a low toilet seat isn’t only uncomfortable for people with mobility limitations, it can also lead to a fall. Invest in a heightened toilet seat or use the opportunity to upgrade to a new toilet that not only sits higher, but is more energy efficient.

Bath Seat or Bench


Your mobility renovations should also include a bath or shower seat or bench. This gives you a place to rest if you feel tired, and you can also bathe yourself comfortably while sitting down safely.

Handheld Showerhead


If you are trying to get your whole body clean with a stationary showerhead, it requires a lot of movement on your part. A handheld showerhead is much more convenient, and can easily be used from the comfortable perch of a bath seat or bench.

Slow and Steady


When you try to rush, you are more likely to cause an accident. Go slow and steady and make sure you are safe and balanced. Make sure you allocate more time in the bathroom for yourself by waking up ten minutes earlier, for example.

These ten tips should help keep everyone safe in the bathroom. For more handy tips regarding mobility renovations, contact RenosGroup.ca today.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427

Protect Your Home from Water Damage

15 Tips to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

If you’ve recently had a beautiful renovation in your home, the last thing you want is to see the work ruined by water damage. Water damage can come from many sources – like a foundation crack, a shower leak, or poor ventilation. Here are some helpful tips to protect your home from water damage

Ceilings, Walls & Floors

  1. Keep an eye out for stains or bubbling paint on the ceilings. This may indicate that there is a leak in the roof or in a pipe.
  2. If you do see stains or bubbling, the source may still be located elsewhere. Track the problem back to the original source and get it solved.
  3. If there is bubbling paint or stains on the walls, it may indicate that a pipe, toilet, or shower is leaking. It may even be a sign of a leak from the foundation.
  4. Place your hand on the wall. Does it feel damp, or does the paint feel flaky? There may be a presence of water behind the walls.
  5. Look for water stains and bubbling tiles on the floors. This is especially important near sources of water, like sinks and dishwashers.
  6. Floor drains should always be left uncovered so they can do their job when the time comes.

Plumbing, Pipes & Appliances

  1. Keep an ear out for strange sounds. Trace them back to the source and you may find a leaky pipe.
  2. If you have a leaky toilet or faucet, repair it right away before it spirals into a bigger problem.
  3. Regularly inspect around sinks, the washing machine, and the hot water tank. If you spot anything off, get it fixed right away.
  4. If you have a leaky toilet drain, replace the wax toilet ring for a leak-proof seal. If not, it could turn into a bigger problem in the future.
  5. Consider investing in a water damage alarm. It will let you know when trouble has started.

Sump Pumps & Sewers

  1. A sump pump is a strong preventative measure because draws off unwanted water from the home. Have it installed by a professional, and make sure a plumber inspects it at least once per year so it works when you need it.
  2. Contact a professional to install a sewer backflow preventer valve. If the main sewer does get backed up, the water won’t end up in your home.

Controlling Moisture

  1. If you have a damp basement, run a dehumidifier regularly to pull moisture from the air.
  2. It is very important to have proper ventilation throughout the house. The three most important places to ventilate properly are the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room.

If you take these preventative steps, you can enjoy your home, renovation and all, for many happy years to come. For more tips about water damage or if you have any questions about home renovations, contact RenosGroups.ca today.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call 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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