Renovations

Poorly Planned Bathroom Renovations

How to Prevent Mold & Mildew Growth Following a Bathroom Renovation

Bathrooms are a common place for mold and mildew to thrive in. With all of the constant moisture and hot steam being produced from the shower, it can begin to grow along the ceiling, walls or shower area, causing potential harm to the structure of the bathroom and to your health.  That’s why it’s necessary to take some preventative measures after you’ve renovated to avoid dealing with any harmful spores. Follow these tips on how to prevent mold and mildew growth, following a bathroom renovation.

Good Ventilation is a Must

Since the bathroom is the dampest room in your home, it’s where mold and mildew are most likely to develop, which can end up damaging your grout, wood and other items. It can also lead to allergies and respiratory problems. So one of the most important things to include in your bathroom renovation is a good ventilation system that can remove the moisture and steam fast. You should also encourage your family members to crack open a window after each shower.

How to Prevent Mold & Mildew Growth Following a Bathroom Renovation

Avoid Using Textiles

Although most bathroom designs don’t include textiles like carpeting, you may want to avoid using them also for the shower curtain, wallpaper and anything similar that mold spores can latch onto and grow on. With the moisture and heat, certain fabrics and materials are not suitable to include in the décor, so make sure you’re careful about what you place in there.

Don’t Cheap Out of the Fixtures

When it comes to the fixtures and plumbing, it can be easy to go with the cheapest options. But keep in mind that sometimes spending a little more now can save you from spending a lot more later. Upgrading your plumbing and fixtures can help you steer clear of dealing with cracks and leaks, which will add more moisture and potential mold growth into your bathroom.

Use Mold & Mildew-Resistant Materials

Being preventative is always a smart move to avoid costly and hazardous situations in the future. You can use materials that are resistant to mold and mildew, such as paint, flooring and other specific treatments that can be applied to surfaces.

If you’ve just realized how susceptible your bathroom is to these spores, you can prevent mold and mildew growth after a bathroom renovation by implementing some of these important steps. Or you can contact us, or call at (613)727-9427 to take care of your reno for you so that you don’t have to worry!

5 Essential Elements of a Chef's Kitchen Renovation

5 Essential Elements of a Chef’s Kitchen Renovation

Just because you don’t have your own restaurant, doesn’t mean you can’t feel proud about being the master chef at home. If the kitchen is where you find joy, then why not bring some more love into this space by creating your own chef’s kitchen right at home? You may never get the chance to show off your culinary delights in a five-start Michelin, but really, who cares when you get to be the head chef for your family and friends? If cooking is where your heart lies, then making the effort and investment to create a chef’s kitchen is well worth it.

When you’re ready to spice up your kitchen, make sure to add these 5 essential elements of you chef’s kitchen renovation project.

Ample Amount Of Room


If you ever peak back behind the scenes at a restaurant, often you can see chefs fluttering around the kitchen in an almost orchestrated rhythm. So the first necessary element for a proper kitchen is to have ample amount of room for both you and anyone involved to move around in. Having an open floor layout is essential. If you have partition walls separating your kitchen from your guests in a neighbouring room, think about how you can eliminate them in your design and add in an island instead to place your culinary skills on display as you interact with your loved ones.

Gas Cook Range


For any chef – whether at home or in a restaurant, the stove is often where most of the magic happens. So, naturally, you need it to excel in performance with this appliance. When taking on your chef’s kitchen renovation, don’t skip out of the appliances that matter. Having a gas cook range that operates with a high British thermal unit (that’s above the average 7,000 Btu) provides larger, hotter flames, with a grill to go alongside it.

Chef’s Kitchen Renovation

Large Sink And Extendable Faucet


With the amount of pots and pans getting used up on a regular basis, having at least two large basin sinks is extremely helpful. You can add these features to the island, or simply add them into your current layout. Just be sure to add in an extendable faucet that can allow you to reach the hose into areas easily.

Sufficient Storage To Organize Your Equipment


For a chef, the knives, spatulas, spoons, flambé torch and all of the other gadgets and gizmos that get used on a regular basis are your essential tools. And keeping them organized and stored away properly and conveniently is essential. Keeping the kitchen organized with a flow that makes sense to you is all about adding in those necessary pull-out drawers, Lazy Susan’s and other organizers to keep your tools stored away properly. Keep this in mind during the renovation to incorporate enough cabinetry and units to make your kitchen work for your culinary rhythm.

Finishing Touches


If the kitchen is where you truly feel at home, then make it truly your own by adding in those finishing touches that you love. Install elegant pot lights along the ceiling, place your favourite copper pots on display, add in that luxurious granite countertop you’ve been dreaming of working on.  Make it yours!

Get creative and use these other key elements to help make your dream chef’s kitchen renovation into a reality that you can enjoy everyday at home.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

5 Downsides of a DIY Remodel

5 Downsides of a DIY Remodel

Thinking of taking on a DIY remodel? Well, you might want to think again before jumping into that. As great as those Youtube videos may seem, the reality is that DIY projects can be much more of a hassle and simply not worth the amount of time and aggravation it can end up requiring. When it comes to home projects like a bathroom upgrade or remodelling the interior, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals.

Following DIY instructions to take on something that you may not be equipped for – such as plumbing, demolishing, or rebuilding – can be dangerous and can end up costing you much more in the long run if something goes wrong.

So if you’re teetering on that DIY debate, consider the 5 downsides of a DIY remodel first.

Calculating The Real Cost

With the amount of DIY videos that are fluttering around online, it’s hard not to get caught up in that DIY fever. And one of the main motivating reasons why many homeowners take on these home projects is to save some of their hard earned money. But the reality is that it’s often not as much of a frugal path as they were hoping for.

There are many projects that can cost much more in reality, and the fact is that many experienced, reputable contractors have connections to suppliers that offer discounts to keep costs lower. Plus, when you begin to factor in the amount of time you’ll have to spend in between your full-time job, the question should always be, is it really, really worth it?

Take the time to analyze these factors and determine if the time, effort, and supplies really outweigh the benefits of hiring a professional contractor who can get the job done for you.

Downsides of a DIY Remodel

Safety First

Safety should always be an important priority to consider. Do you have the necessary skills to take on this DIY remodel project? Can you safely take care of the plumbing or electrical wiring for those necessary features? It’s important to recognize when something is out of your repertoire of skills and when certain tasks should only be dealt with by a trained and license professional.

Can You Handle The Mess?

Professional, experienced contractors not only have the skills to take on necessary projects safely, but they also know how to manoeuvre themselves, labourers, and supplies in such a way that won’t leave a massive mess for you to deal with. Containing any mess is often a part of the job. So if you can’t handle the idea of living with a mess to deal with after struggling through your DIY, then it’s worth your time to opt out of taking it upon yourself to do.

Staying Within Your Budget

Staying within your budget can also become extremely challenging when you’re unsure of where and what the best strategy is for obtaining the necessary supplies. A contractor can recommend materials and supplies that can achieve your vision, while maintaining your set budget.

Finding The Time

Ask yourself if you really have the time to spare? Remember, any project usually takes more time than initially thought – especially when you take it upon yourself to do. If you barely have the time to spare for yourself, then finding time for your DIY remodel can lead to a lot of stress and aggravation.

As tempting as a DIY project may seem, in the end, many homeowners realize that it really isn’t worth the time, aggravation and energy it requires. Save yourself the headache and call the professionals at RenosGroup.  If you want to learn more about the downsides of a DIY remodel don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Sink or Swim: New Life for Your Kitchen Sink After the Reno

Sink or Swim: New Life for Your Kitchen Sink After the Reno

Taking on a kitchen reno and wondering what to do with your old sink? Upgrading and remodelling doesn’t necessarily mean those old fixtures should be tossed away. You can consider placing it online to sell or even donating it to be reused for someone else to enjoy. If there’s still life left in your old sink, here are some options for you to consider for your kitchen sink after the reno.

 

Repurpose the Sink


When you’re in the full throttle of a renovation project, there’s often little time to really think about how to repurpose old fixtures like the sink. But once the dust has settled, you can begin to brainstorm how you can reuse them. Whether it’s your laundry room, the bathroom, or even outside, consider all of your options for where that sink might come in handy around your home.

 

Sell Your Sink to Budget-Friendly Homeowners


Selling your sink is another viable option to consider. Many homeowners these days place any and everything up for sale on online sites such as Craigslist or even in local online groups for their individual neighbourhoods. You can gain a little extra cash while giving some budget-friendly homeowners a great deal.

 

Donate Your Sink


We all know that owning a home these days often comes with a tighter budget. So why not help out some fellow homeowners who can’t afford to stretch out their budget by donating your old kitchen sink? You can ask around through family and friends first to see if anyone is in need. Failing that, there are plenty of options, such as Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, or any other suitable charity that you prefer. If you’re unsure which ones will take the sink, you can simply call them up and ask. You’d be surprised just what type of items charities are glad to accept.

 

Call Up a Scrap Metal Collector to Recycle It


Finally, if you found little success in repurposing, selling or donating, then recycling it is a final option that helps you get it out of the house and keeps it out of a landfill site. There are many eager scrap metal collectors that are more than willing to collect your old steel sink.

So when you’re unsure about what to do with your old kitchen sink after a reno, don’t throw it away for garbage. Consider each of these options that can allow it to be put to good use instead.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Renovations That Maintaining Seniors Independence

Senior Accessibility: A Guide to the Ontario Renovates Program

Is your home in need of some repairs or modifications for improved accessibility? Well if you’re a senior or a person with disabilities living in Ontario, you could be eligible for funding offered by Ottawa’s Housing Services branch. Here is a guide to the Ontario Renovates Program to help you learn how you could potentially have your home repairs covered.

 

What is the Ontario Renovates Program?


This program was created under the City Housing Services branch to provide limited funding to low-income seniors and persons with disabilities to assist with home repairs.

 

What Type of Repairs Does This Include?


The Ontario Renovates Program only provides funding for repairs and modifications that are necessary for improving accessibility for seniors and persons with disabilities who are living within their own home. This aims to provide necessary support to assist with independent living.

 

What are the Eligibility Requirements?


To be eligible to receive funding through this program, low-income seniors must be 65 years of age or older. It also pertains to persons with disabilities, along with families who have a member of their home who meets the criteria of being 65 or older, and or with a disability of some sort. There is a maximum annual gross annual income which varies depending on the number of residents. For instance a single-person household may have a maximum gross annual income of $36,075, while a two-person household may have a combined gross annual income up to $44,160 to qualify for the program.

 

What are the Eligibility Requirements of the Property?


To be eligible for the program, your property must be your sole and primary residence located in the City of Ottawa. It must also be valued at or under $376,300 as determined by the province and verified by the owner’s most recent property tax assessment.

 

What Type of Repairs Can Be Included?


The purpose of this program is to provide funding to assist in making the home a safer place for seniors and persons with disabilities to live independently. Some of the potential repairs that are allowed include:

  • Doors and windows
  • Repairs to foundation, roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings
  • Plumbing, septic, electrical, and heating systems
  • Fire safety features
  • Installing handrails and ramps
  • Chair and bathlifts
  • Height-adjusted countertops

There are many other items that qualify under the program. You can check out more details here.

 

What About Funding?


Funding is delivered in the form of a forgivable loan. The funding may also be provided in the form of a grant for eligible applicants up to a maximum amount of $18,500. There are certain stipulations when it comes to the details of the scope of funding, which can also be found here.

 

How to Apply for the Ontario Renovates Program


To apply for the funding program, head to the City of Ottawa website to access instructions, details, a checklist and the application form.

The duration of the program runs until March 31st, 2018 or until the funds have been fully spent. So if you think you qualify for the Ontario Renovates Program, be sure to check out their website for all of the details so you can apply before it’s too late. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2018, or until allocated funds run out.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Adding-Half-Bath

Adding a Half Bath to Your Home

Planning to add a half bath to your home? It’s an excellent way to increase the value of your home and to add more convenience for your family and guests. If you’re ready to get started, here’s everything you need to consider when adding the perfect half bath to your home.

 

Options


There are lots of potential areas in your home that can make for a perfect half bath. If you have a stairway with unused space underneath, a large garage, or spare closet space, these areas can make for good potential locations.

 

Space


Once you have some potential options in mind, consider how much space you need. When adding a half bath, it doesn’t need to be large, just enough space for a toilet, sink, mirror, and vanity. You also want to make sure people can move around in the area without feeling claustrophobic, and a smart design can make this happen.

 

Plumbing


For your half bath to work you need it to be close enough to plumbing connections that are already in place. Otherwise, you will be spending money expanding your indoor plumbing and pipes, costing you more than you might have bargained for. An ideal plumbing scenario is run piping from the nearby laundry room or kitchen.

 

Ventilation


You may also require ventilation in your half bath to control odours, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of growing mildew or mold. Consider adding a window or an exhaust fan to the space. You don’t have to get fancy, but there are lots of different designs when it comes to fans, so shop around for the best prices.

 

Lighting


Lighting is of course, a necessity but can also be a great way to add some style and design touches to the room. You can add dimmer switches, elegant lighting fixtures, or battery-operated candles to jazz up the space.

 

Materials


The half bath is often the only room guests see besides your entertaining spaces. So why not decorate to impress? Skip the basics and add marble sinks, potted plants, wood accents, and other luxury décor items.

 

Sound Insulation


Adding sound insulation is a must when it comes to half baths that are located near living rooms spaces or areas where people gather. So, during the installation project, add some sound absorbing materials to the walls, pipes, and drains.

A half bath can be an easy project if you have the right plan and contractor for the job. Before you start your new project, talk to RenosGroup.ca – we can help you with everything you need to get the perfect half bath for your budget and home design.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Hottest Basement Trends

Hottest Basement Trends

Basement renos and remodelling have grown in popularity over the past few years as homeowners become more inclined to make use of that entire square footage. Whether it’s an entertainment hub for the family, a place for the kids to hang out, or your own special spot to have the friends over for cocktails, here are some of 2017’s hottest basement renovation trends that are leading the way this year.

Open Concept


Think the open concept has passed? Think again! When it comes to basement floor plans, the open concept is a keeper. Tearing down those dividing walls and taking advantage of the expansive space is not only beneficial from a design standpoint, but also for promoting air flow and allowing as much natural light to filter in from the windows.

An Integral Part of the Home


In the past, the basement was often a forgotten space. It was commonly used for storage, setting up an extra spot for extended family to stay during the holidays, or an unfinished den where your teenage kids would retreat to with their friends in tow. Well, not anymore.

Now, we’re seeing an increasing trend where homeowners are honing in on that once forgotten space. It’s now being transformed into an integral part of the home and an extension of the upstairs living space. So naturally, you will find just as much attention to detail, design, and décor throughout the basement layout as you would in the main living room.

Home Theatre & Media Room


Some homeowners are even taking full advantage of the basement space by cranking up the luxury factor and adding in elements they can really indulge in like an enclosed home theatre and a media room. This is where the serious media enthusiast can get pampered.

The Basement Bar & Sports Center


Imagine having your own personal sports bar, right in your own home! If you’re bored with the idea of creating another bedroom or zone for the kids, why not make it your own space to kick back and relax with your friends while you take in all the sports action? You can create the ultimate sports lounge with a customized bar, paired with some exceptionally comfy seating, a widescreen to blow your mind, and even a few entertainment pieces like a pool table.

If you can dream it, you can create it – and that goes for your basement. If you’re bored with the idea of wasting it on storage or another bedroom that you simply don’t need, claim that space and transform it into something you truly want. When you’re ready, contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427  RenosGroup.ca to help keep up to date with the hottest basement trends

Does-Your-Laundry-Room-Need-a-Makeover

Does Your Laundry Room Need a Makeover?

Is your laundry room driving you a little bit crazy? Is the room cluttered and disorganized so much that your clothes end up piled up without room to organize? If this sounds like your struggles, maybe it’s time for a laundry room makeover. Here we provide some secrets on how you can better utilize your laundry room space and make the most of your weekly cleaning.

New Efficient Machines


If your clothes are coming out worse than when they went in, it’s probably time to upgrade your machines. Washing machines take a lot of abuse over the years, and you should consider replacing them every five or so years depending on the make. If you want to utilize your laundry room space, try purchasing a stacking dryer and washer. With the savings in energy usage, they’ll pay for themselves over the years!

Storage Space


For better space utilization, you should try installing more storage units. Consider implementing a pull-out hamper, narrow sliding cart, or closet organizer. Rigging your laundry room with additional storage can really help to free up more needed space and keep your belongings organized. Take it to the next level with custom storage perfectly fitted to the space by your general contractor.

Laundry Sink


Not everything should go into the washer. That’s why having a laundry room sink is handy for hand-washing any delicates or hard-to-clean textures. It’s also convenient when you need to immediately rinse off stains or soak items. This can also free up the kitchen or bathroom sink when you need to hand-wash any items.

Folding Station


When it comes to organizing laundry, nothing is handier than a having a folding station that you can take advantage of when your clothes are fresh out of the dryer. If you’re short on space, you can add a fold-down table to the back of the door. You can also utilize this area for ironing and stacking clothes once dried.

Natural Light


You should also consider adding more natural light if possible. Installing a window or sunroof can really help with the quality of your washing – say goodbye to mixing up colours in the dark. But if your house won’t permit a build-out, you can always purchase new and brighter lighting and bulbs for the room.

Your laundry room is one of the most essential rooms in your home. So why not make it both functional and easy to navigate? By following these tips, you can easily save plenty of space and upgrade the features for more efficient use.  Contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

5-Reasons-to-Buy-a-fixer-Upper

5 Reasons to Buy a Fixer-Upper

Buying a fixer-upper has many advantages for purchasers. And it doesn’t matter how well or poorly the market is performing, you can buy a fixer-upper at any time. With a fixer-upper, you can make a decent profit off the purchase price if you put some quality work into it. But that isn’t the only reason to buy a home with upside potential. Here we outline some reasons to buy a fixer upper.

Renovate Key Rooms


Maybe it’s an older design that hasn’t been updated in decades, or the previous owners started but didn’t have the money to finish the upgrades. Whatever the condition, a fixer-upper is the perfect purchase for those who love to renovate and create. By focusing on the key rooms of the home, like the living room, kitchen and master bedroom, you can flip the house from drab to fab in no time.

Make It Your Own


Sure, you can buy a brand-new home with all the latest designs, appliances, and fixtures. But you probably won’t have any money left over to truly make it your own. With a fixer-upper, you can renovate the home to suit your needs and make it the dream house you’ve always wanted.

Save Money


A house with some imperfections will sell for a lower price than a newer build or upgraded property. If you aren’t too fussy about living with some wear and tear initially, you can save a lot of money. Especially if you have a particular neighbourhood in mind that is out of your price range. Going with a fixer-upper can help you get a place in the area you prefer for less than what you would normally pay.

Make Profits


Fixer-uppers usually come at a bargain price. And when you take advantage of buying at a low rate, it can help you rake in the profits when it comes to putting it back on the market. You don’t even have to renovate if you don’t want to, you can simply wait for market conditions to improve and sell it at a profit.

Add a Home Addition


With all the money you can save from buying a fixer-upper, you could put on a whole new addition on your home. And the options are endless to what you can create – a second floor, a sunroom, a double car garage – if you can dream it, you can build it.

There are so many advantages when you buy a home that you can upgrade. Yet, fixer-uppers may not be for everyone, but if you’re someone who likes to design, renovate, and build, then it’s the best way to go.  For more reasons to buy a fixer upper don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Things to Consider When Doing a Bathroom Reno

4 Things to Consider When Doing a Bathroom Reno

Taking on a bathroom renovation can be a grueling project, but one that’s worthy of the effort – especially if you ever consider placing your home up for sale. It can bump up the resale value, and of course, boost the luxury of your interior. But before you begin knocking down walls and removing the toilet, there are some important things to consider when doing a bathroom reno. Here’s what they include:

Do you have an alternative bathroom to use?

Remember, once you begin that renovation to your bathroom, it will become inaccessible for a while. So using the toilet, sink, and shower won’t exactly be an option. That’s why before getting started you should figure out a plan for these important necessities. Whether you have a second bathroom to use, or the neighbour is kind enough to let you use their shower, make a plan for bathroom usage so that you won’t end up stuck when it really matters.

Bathroom Renovation Ottawa - Pellan Cres

What sort of functionality will you need?

Is this going to be a primary guest bathroom or one more so for your own personal use? This is important to determine so that you can think about the layout and functionality of the bathroom. Are you looking to create a luxurious, spa-like getaway in the comfort of this bathroom, or is it merely an additional one to free up your primary one during those hectic mornings? This will help you determine whether a bathtub is necessary or not, whether two sinks are necessary or not, along with other design features that will create your desired space.

Will you need storage incorporated into the design?

If you live in a condo or are simply limited on space, you know that any potential for storage is important. Think about how and where areas for storage can be incorporated and how you can optimize space for those essential toiletries.

What is your budget?

Determining your budget is the safest way to keep your expenditures at a range that won’t shock you once everything is completed. A bathroom reno project can quickly turn into one that ends up costing much more than anticipated, especially with all of the high-end décor items and fancy faucets that look so tempting at the home décor store. In order to avoid serious temptation and stick to what you can afford, create a budget before you begin shopping for your remodeling items.

Bathroom renos can be a big undertaking, but they can also be fun! Consider each of these factors first before jumping ahead with your Ottawa bathroom renovation.  To learn more things to consider when doing a bathroom reno, don’t hesitate to contact us, 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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