Renovations

Choosing the Right Flooring for Your Custom Kitchen

Choosing The Right Flooring For Your Custom Kitchen

Creating a custom kitchen can improve the quality of the home, making it more livable and even more attractive to future buyers. One aspect of a custom kitchen that often presents a challenge is the flooring. With that in mind, let’s review some of the most commonly used materials to help in choosing the right flooring for your kitchen.

Wood

Wood feels more inviting when you walk on it than stone. It is warm, and can be bright or rustic depending on the stain used. When finished properly, the wood floor can withstand frequent use and even spills. The primary issue with wood kitchen flooring is in the price. Laminate can be a cost-effective alternative, though it is much less durable than hardwood.

Vinyl

Long gone are the days where vinyl only comes in one or two generally repulsive colours. Now vinyl offers the widest colour and patterning selection available, making countless combinations possible. In addition, they are among the least expensive flooring options out there, and resistant to water to boot. The downside is that many people consider vinyl to be cheap and instead go for something like wood or tiling.

Cork

In addition to wood, you may want to consider cork. Durable, resistant to water, and resistant to impact, cork is generally versatile and reliable. However, expect it to wear a bit more than other materials on this list.

Tile Or Stone

If the kitchen is in a part of your home where there is a lot of traffic, then tile, stone, and even concrete work very well. Whether they are ceramic, tile, or stone, you will have many different options for creating the colours, textures, and feel of your kitchen. At the same time, you face some of the highest prices for kitchen floors. In the end, you may save more by looking for a local source of the material where shipping and reselling fees will be less.

Limestone

Limestone is separate from tile or stone because it is composed of a porous material that will stain and damage easily if not sealed. Along with being sealed when first installed, it will need to be sealed every two years after.

In addition, there is the cost that can be higher as well. So, why bother? Well, limestone offers an old world look that is captivating and it can bring an entire kitchen together.

Regardless of the material you choose, consider hiring a professional renovation contractor in Ottawa like RenosGroup.ca. With years of experience and countless past jobs helping out people like you, a contractor will speed up the process, make sure a high-quality job is done, and even save you materials on supplies and overall cost when compared to DIY. 

Please don’t wait to give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to get the ball rolling. You can also use this form to request a free in-home consultation and estimate.

What is the Best Exterior Material for Your Home Addition

What Is The Best Exterior Material For Your Home Addition?

A home offers countless opportunities to customize, improve, and enhance your property. From small do-it-yourself projects to larger additions and renovations, choosing the right materials can help to keep the overall costs of your project down while improving the value of your home. This is especially true when working on the exterior of your home where nature and the elements are constantly acting against you. With that in mind, let’s take a moment to quickly review the best exterior material for your home addition.

Dependent On Needs

Simply put, there is no ideal exterior material for home additions. The material that will work the best will depend on the unique situation surrounding your home addition, your budget, and your personal taste. The following considerations will help you to narrow down your selection.

Consider Housing Requirements

What housing requirements exist for the property? Are there any ordinances or zoning laws in Ottawa that prohibit certain building materials? While a frequent problem with properties that are considered, a growing number of neighbourhood ordinances are limiting the materials that homeowners can use on their home. Along with these housing requirements, you may want to consider the climate. Every material has strengths and weaknesses associated with their use, and certain climates will wear down your exterior more quickly.

Consider The Current Aesthetic

Material use can add to or take away from the visual aesthetic of your home when examined alongside other parts of your home. For that reason, most people use whatever material was used for the walls of the home on the home addition. If the particular home addition exterior is not easily viewable, then you may find it easier to use more appropriate/less expensive materials that would ordinarily clash.

Factor In the Cost Of Material

Different materials will cost you depending on the local availability. For example, vinyl, wood, stucco, brick, stone, and metal all shift in prices depending on what your local availability is like. If cost is a factor, then vinyl will typically be one of the best options available as it is nearly ubiquitous and low in price.

Any Other Considerations?

Consider hiring a home renovation contractor to help you choose the right material. Utilizing experience born from countless previous jobs, a contractor like RenosGroup.ca will quickly point you in the right direction after considering your needs and wants. Together, you will be able to find the least expensive source for the material and even aid in the installation.  Feel free to contact us or give us a call at (613) 727-9427 to get started now.

The Right Interior Door for your Home Renovation

The Right Interior Door for your Home Renovation

The doors inside of our homes provide privacy between family members and separate spaces. But when considering interior door options during a home renovation, we often overlook an important fact: interior doors can be unique and stylish. Instead of opting for a simple interior door style, open the doors to new design opportunities. Consider an interior door that shows your personality and upgrades the style of your home, and you will see a very noticeable difference in your home’s interior. We have come up with a list of things for you to consider while choosing the right interior door.

Door Style

The style of interior door that you select can completely change the look of your home. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a door with personality to reflect your preferences. This will help to add a fun aspect to the room. Remember that most doors in your home should have some similar elements to help with the flow throughout the house.

An important thing to consider when choosing a style is the size of the room. For smaller rooms, avoid large, bulky doors as they will become the focal point of the room and make them feel smaller.

There are several door styles to choose from! If you need help deciding and are looking for a home renovation, contact us.

Pocket Doors: Slide into the wall, instead of swinging open. Pocket doors are most convenient for small rooms or rooms with an awkward layout where a swinging door would interfere with objects.

Folding Doors: Usually for smaller spaces such as closets, laundry rooms, or pantries.

Barn Doors: If you’re home renovation is looking for something with rustic charm, or wants a room that has a more industrial feel, these doors are the way to go.

French Doors: French doors are perfect for separating two spaces without fully closing either of the spaces off. These doors have a frame with several transparent panels and can be customized to suit your needs.

Door Swing

For your convenience, you can choose the direction that your interior door swings. In order to be the most efficient, a door shouldn’t open into a hallway as it will block yours’ and your guests’ direct paths. Consider if you want a right-hand or left-hand door swing for each room, depending on the shape of each space.

Door Framing

You wouldn’t put a beautiful photograph in a poorly built frame would you? The same goes for the doors that you select in your home. A poorly made frame will take away from the door itself, and can even cause damage to the door.

Door Material

Depending on the style of your home, you have several options for the material of your interior doors. Solid wood, metal, glass, hollow core (plywood), or a wood-fibre blend.

Still have questions or concerns about adding new interior doors to  your home renovation project? Contact RenosGroup.ca, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 and we’d be happy to help with these and all other home renovation needs.

Bathroom Renovations That Make A Real Room

Bathroom Renovations That Make A Real Room

For many years, homeowners in Ottawa neglected bathroom renovations, redesigns  and upgrades. After all, most people don’t spend anywhere near as much time in the bathroom as they do the rest of the house. But over the years, bathroom renovations have been the subject of fascinating new trends, all of which are designed to bring comfort, style, and luxury into the room. If you’re looking for ideas for bathroom redesign, continue reading for five designer tips to get you started.

“More Than The Bathroom Sink”

When doing bathroom renovations, think bigger than what you’re accustomed. Nowadays, homeowners are turning their bathrooms into areas where you can listen to music, relax and read a book, and effectively store reading material and entertainment items. There’s no shame in adding some furniture into the bathroom, especially if it fits well with the style and theme of the room.

So you can upgrade your showerhead to an eco-friendly design that makes water usage more efficient while offering just as much comfort. You can even enjoy a hot bath in surround sound as companies like Delta offer upgrades for built-in stereo equipment. There’s no reason you shouldn’t be just as comfortable in your bathroom as you are elsewhere in the home.

Add Colour To Dull White

You’ll find it difficult to meet someone whose bathroom isn’t painted white. That’s because white is often believed to be a peaceful and soft colour suggesting tranquility and comfort. But that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with colours to redesign your bathroom to look the way you really want. You can finish the job quicker by simply painting the walls a new colour. Generally, brown, tan, or other natural colours are most popular. Feel free, however, to embellish your environment with turquoise, forest green, or even red or blue. To successfully incorporate colour into the home, consider browsing the internet or design magazines for ideas. Remember, what you see in your head may not look the same when you begin redesigning. So take your time and think carefully about the colour you add.

Combine Different Materials

Glass, wood, stone, and china should cross your mind here. Bring some shine into the bathtub with glass tiles. Stainless steel is very popular and you can try this for sinks, bathtubs, and shower walls. The trick for remodeling is to take a simple design idea, be creative, and make the room stand out. Experimenting with both colour and materials gives you the chance to turn your bathroom into a beach. Use wood and some plants, then add some brown and green colours and your bathroom is now a quiet spot in a calm forest. The more you look around and think outside the box, the better design ideas you’ll come up with.

Declutter The Bathroom

Sometimes too much is just as bad as too little. That said, it doesn’t hurt to take things out of your bathroom before redesigning, especially if the room is particularly cluttered. Instead of keeping cosmetic products stacked around the sink, use cabinets and containers to store combs, brushes, toothbrushes, shampoo, lotion, etc. Use some of the materials mentioned above rather than buy cheap, flimsy containers.

Dim The Lights

One way to turn a relaxing environment into a torture shack is using extremely bright lights. Bright lights make your eyes hurt and take away the comfort of a soothing bathroom.

Whatever ideas you have, it’s always ideal to work with a trained designer, preferably one you trust if he or she is available. With so many beautiful design options to choose from, there’s no limit to what you can to redesign your bathroom for comfort and style. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today we’d be happy to take your dull bathroom into a relaxing retreat with our bathroom renovation services.

When to Redecorate, Renovate, or Build an Addition

When to Redecorate, Renovate, or Build an Addition

So you’ve outgrown the style or size of your home! Maybe there’s a new addition to the family who will need their own room, or maybe you haven’t had the chance to redecorate since the kids moved out. Any type of change in your life normally requires some sort of transformation in your home. We’ve come up with some guidelines for when to redecorate, renovate or home addition.

Try to Redecorate

Before doing anything too drastic, try redecorating your space. To make sure that you’re taking full advantage of the space that you have, take the time to analyze the amount of furniture in the room. Start off your redecoration by removing any furniture in the room that is unused. Get rid of that extra recliner in the corner, or that clunky side table that stores nothing important.

Give it away to a secondhand store or to someone who could benefit from it. It is simply taking up space in your home! Next, throw out the extra knick-knacks that you have lying around and find storage for the important things. Adding shelves to your walls is a great way to save space and display your books and decorations.

Renovate

Still not satisfied with your space after redecorating? You can also consider home renovation. You can completely change your living and dining areas by removing a wall and creating an open concept space. You can also give the illusion of more space without having to tear down any walls by changing a regular window to a bay window. Another great way to use the space in your home to its full potential is to finally get around to completing that basement renovation. Adding bedrooms and bathroom to your basement is the perfect way to add space without having to build an addition.  If the kids have moved out, consider changing a room from a bedroom to a useful office or guestroom.

Addition

So you’ve done it all, and you’re still not satisfied with your space. Maybe it’s time to consider an addition to your home. If your budget allows for it, an addition will provide you with the space that you and your family need for your ever-growing needs.

Remember that if you’re looking to make changes to your home, there are always options for any budget. By considering all of your options, you will find the most suitable way to make the best of your space and money. Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 for a free estimate!

5 Signs You’ve Run Into DIY Trouble

Home Renovations: 5 Signs You’ve Run Into DIY Trouble

There is a proud history in Canada of do-it-yourself, or DIY home renovations. Saving a lot of money by not hiring a professional and picking up a number of useful skills in the process, DIY projects can vary in size and scope. While some may be as small as retiling a surface, others may include gutting, insulating, and converting a space like an attic into a fully useful room. Regardless, getting the job will require having the right skills and mindset, along with the right equipment. With that in mind, let’s take a moment to look at five signs that you’ve run into DIY trouble. When these things happen, it may be time to call the professional.

Costs


With a DIY project, costs are supposed to be relatively low. Instead of paying a professional, you are taking your own time to work on your house. If the actual costs begin far exceeding the expected cost you worked out at the beginning, then you may be in trouble. As some mistakes can set you back even further, it may be time to hire a knowledgeable home renovation contractor.

Time


While you may be able to tackle a DIY problem yourself, it will take you more time than it would a professional. Assigning a dollar amount to every hour you spend, how much time is really being saved by doing it yourself? In addition, any obstacles or problems might significantly increase the time the project takes.

Unforeseen Problems


While you most certainly didn’t plan to flood your home, sometimes DIY projects can cause damage to other parts of the house, costing you money. A professional home renovation contractor, on the other hand, will be able to identify these things before they become full-blown problems.

Uncertainty


Certain DIY jobs around the house are incredibly complicated, requiring a firm understanding of home renovations in order to do right. If you have arrived at this point and further research isn’t helping, then you may have DIY trouble.

No Joy


An interest and excitement in DIY projects help make them possible. If you are at the point when doing work to a particular part of your house brings you no joy or excitement, then you are more liable to make mistakes. Instead of spending your time on something you do not want to do, why not hire a professional? Along with guaranteeing the quality of the work it will afford you the opportunity to take some time for yourself.

We admire the DIY spirit, but if you want safe, durable, and quality results, you have to trust the professionals. RenosGroup.ca is here for all of your home renovation, home addition, and mobility renovation needs in Ottawa and the surrounding area.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

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.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Remodelling Your Master Bedroom 

The Ultimate Guide to Remodel Your Master Bedroom 

Ready to remodel your master bedroom? Before you start knocking down walls and reconfiguring the layout, use this guide to create a design that is exactly as you like it.

Open Things Up


One of the hottest trends in home layouts is the open-concept living space. Since the master bedroom is supposed to be a place for you to unwind and relax, it makes sense that the room should not be small and cramped. High ceilings and minimal walls are ideal, so see about opening the space if you can. Before remodeling your master bedroom, make sure you know where everything is supposed to be placed so you will have enough space for everything you need.

Brighten the Space


Nothing makes a master bedroom feel more inviting that a nice paint job. While your room is meant to be a haven, it is not supposed to feel like a dungeon. Dark paints and stains can look great when juxtaposed against brighter colours. Keep in mind that the most relaxing colours are subdued hues of greens, blues, and yellows. Consider your intended purposes while picking out the paint for your master bedroom. Have you chosen a colour that matches the design concept as well as your idea of a relaxing space?

When in Doubt, Go with the Best


During your master bedroom remodel you will eventually notice that not all products are created equally. Some are noticeably better quality while other items have hidden flaws that end up costing you money in the end. This can make it difficult to find the right pieces for your space. When you are in doubt about what to choose, always go with the best product. Keep in mind that “best” is not always synonymous with “most expensive.” Study the quality of the products you pick and opt for something that has lasting value. When all is said and done, you will be happy you did and you could also save a lot of money in the future.

Hire a Professional


Remember that you can always use an expert to help you create the master bedroom of your dreams. Professional help from Ottawa home renovators like RenosGroup.ca can give you design insights that you hadn’t considered. Even if you don’t want to spend the money on services, we are happy to come to your house for a free no-obligation estimate so you can structure a more realistic budget. A good professional contractor and/or designer can streamline the process and perfect the details of the project though, which makes their services well worth the money in most cases.

To learn more about remodeling your master bedroom to better suit your needs and taste, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427  today.

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.

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