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6 Reasons to Add On to Your Home

 You may love your home and all that it has to offer but there is always room for improvement. By adding on to your home, you can improve your life in many ways. No matter if you are simply considering adding on a single room to your house or an entire floor, here are six reasons you should consider adding on to your home. 

 1. Adapt to Your Family’s Growing Needs

 Many individuals add on to their homes to meet the needs of their growing families. It isn’t uncommon for families to dread leaving their current home or neighbourhood to move to a larger home. Their current house may offer many of the features they desire in a home, they simply need more space.

 Your family’s needs may have changed from when you first purchased the home. For example, you may have more children, you may need a home office, etc. Luckily, no matter what type of room or feature you build, when you add on, you increase the square footage of your house. This will give you more space to gather, more room for additional family members, more privacy, etc. 

 2. Can Increase Your Home’s Value

While there are many projects around your Markham home that can increase your home’s value, a home addition is near the top of that list. Adding on to your home can greatly increase the value of your home and depending on the type of room that you add on, it can have a high ROI. 

 Here is a look at several room additions and the average ROI you can expect to receive. 

 Garage: You can receive up to a full 100% ROI, if you decide to build a garage, particularly if you build a detached garage and create a small apartment above the space to bring additional income to your household. 

 Sunroom: A sunroom will not bring you as much of a return as other spaces offer. However, you can still expect to see up to 50% ROI on this project. 

 Additional Bedroom: This addition offers an ROI of around 50%. Keep in mind that if you build a bedroom on your main floor, it will take away precious yard space. 

 Additional Bathroom: Several bathrooms throughout your house is a large selling perk and can increase your home’s sale price. By adding a single, basic bathroom with little features to your home, you can expect an ROI of approximately 60%. 

 Second-Story Additions: Adding on a second story of your home may sound expensive and an inconvenience, but it can transform your home and your living space. Additionally, you may find that it is less expensive than other home renovations as you can receive up to 65% ROI on this remodel. 

 3. A Home Addition Can Make Your Home More Sellable

 In addition to increasing the value of your home, a house addition can also make your Kitchener property more sellable. Potential buyers are looking for a home that is move-in ready. They want a place that meets their family’s needs and provides adequate space. When you add on to your home, this makes it more appealing to many families and checks off more boxes on their “must-have” list. 

 Several additions that can make your home more sellable and appealing to potential buyers include: 

 Laundry room

  • Bathroom
  • Bedroom
  • Larger kitchen
  • Garage
  • Storage space such as a large pantry
  • Dining room
  • Master bedroom suite 
  • Home office

 4. To Create a Work Area

 Today, millions of individuals work from home. In fact, the number of individuals who work from home has increased by 140% since 2005. This means that more families are looking for a home office or a dedicated workspace. They want a home office where they can focus exclusively on work and be away from the mainstream areas like the kitchen. However, you may not be looking solely for a home office, but a place to perform hands-on-work such as a large garage or a shop.    

 No matter what type of workspace you plan to add to your home, keep the design of this space in mind. For example, if you are building a home office, you may consider a room with lots of windows. Studies show that offices with ample natural light improve productivity. One study found that individuals noticed an 84% decrease in symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, and eyestrain in a well-lit office.

5. You Hope to Grow Old in the Home

If you love your current home and you can’t imagine living elsewhere, you should think about how the home will cater to your aging needs. You want to make sure that the home provides an adequate living space for you to move safely and without any assistance. 

 For example, if your current home has your master bedroom and bathroom upstairs, this may be too difficult to access if you are faced with mobility issues or certain health conditions. You may consider adding to your home and moving your master bedroom on your main floor. 

 Other ideas to consider to help you age in place include: 

 Adding a main-floor bathroom. If the current bathroom on your main floor is small, changes may need to be made. You need a space with a large walk-in, seated shower. You may also need additional space to make the bathroom accessible with a wheelchair. 

 Create wider walkways. Are the hallways throughout your home narrow? What about your door frames? You may need to make some home renovations to your Toronto home to make it easier to move throughout your property with a wheelchair or a walker. 

 Create larger gathering areas. Could your current living room be expanded to make it easier to move through it or to allow for additional furniture such as a reclining chair? Do you have a small set of stairs that takes you from your kitchen area to your family room? These are all features that will need to be carefully looked at as you age in place. 

 Build a main floor laundry room. In many homes, you may find the laundry room in the basement or upstairs near the bedrooms. You may want a main floor laundry room to make it easier to complete this basic chore. 

 6. Your Children Need a Place to Play

 If you have young children, you may find that your living room is covered in toys. This will not only take away the beauty of your indoor space, but it will also make your room look small and cluttered. Creating a playroom gives your children a designated place to go. It helps to contain the mess. Not to mention, the living room and bedrooms will look nicer without toys sprawled all over the floor. 

 This room is also beneficial because it can grow with your children. While they are young, you can use it as a playroom and as they become teenagers, you can transform it into a place where they can go to hang out with their friends. You can place a ping pong table in the corner, hang a TV on the wall, etc. Once all of your children have moved away, you can then turn this space into a guest room or a craft/hobby room. The possibilities are endless. 

 If you are considering adding on to your home, work with professionals like The Renovators of Canada. These home renovation experts will work closely with you to help you create a home that you are proud to call your own. It will have the space, features, and qualities that you desire in your dream home. Call The Renovators of Canada today to schedule your consultation.

Why Should Choose the Renovators of Canada for Home Renovations

Whether you are looking to remodel your kitchen, basement, or even the bathroom in your Toronto home, choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make. Not only will this decision affect the final outcome of the project, but it will provide you with a smooth and enjoyable experience.

And while the quality of work that the contractor in Canada completes is of utmost importance, it isn’t the only thing that should be taken into consideration. There are many factors that must be evaluated.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Contractor

Not all contractors are the same and it is important that you don’t rush into hiring any company or professional without a full evaluation. Here are just a few things you should consider as you make your choice.

Basic Background Information: You want to ensure that the contractor you choose meets all necessary requirements to legally perform the work. For example, does the company have a current license? What does their insurance coverage look like? These aspects are all important to help you ensure the project is done well and if any problem occurs, that the proper documentation and coverage is available.

Recommendations: If you have a contractor in mind, ask if they can provide references from former clients. You want to speak with past clients to not only determine the company’s quality of work but to also learn how easy they were to work with. You want to work with experts who are friendly, knowledgeable, and honest. Ask about how well the company worked within a budget, followed a schedule, and more. It is also a smart idea to determine if the company has any legal actions against them.

Offers Ideas and Listens to Your Own: This is your home and your project. What you want to do and the ideas you have should be expressed and implemented by the contractor. Good contractors will help you incorporate your ideas and create the space that you envision. But, they also have their own ideas and tips for enhancing the space. Some of the best contractors, like The Renovators of Canada, have a gallery of past projects they have completed so you can easily gather ideas and piece together a stunning space.  

What Type of Customer Service Training Is Important?

In addition to the items listed above, customer service must be a priority and for The Renovators of Canada, it is. They understand that customer service is what creates loyal customers and it encourages the recommendations and referrals to help their business succeed. But even more important, they understand that this is your home — one of the biggest investments you will ever make. A home renovation can be a frustrating and inconvenient process and they want to make the process as smooth and enjoyable for you as possible. Here are a few areas where this home remodel company is striving to ensure you experience incredible customer service.

  1. They Are the Experts

When you are tackling a big project such as a basement remodel or a kitchen renovation, you will likely have dozens of questions and concerns. You want to work with a company that will not only provide you with a detailed explanation but will also ensure that you understand and feel good about their explanation. Additionally, you shouldn’t have to wait a long time for a response either. Rather than wait for days for these questions and concerns to be answered, they should be answered in a fast and timely manner.

  1. Very Friendly and Upbeat

A home remodel is a very exciting project but it can also be very challenging and frustrating. A good contractor, such as The Renovators of Canada, recognize that. No matter how you are feeling, they should be friendly and warm. You should feel comfortable coming to them with questions or concerns and you should walk away from any employee from the company in good spirits.

  1. Listen to What You Say

Whether you are concerned about a change in plans, the price, or just don’t love the current design ideas, an employee from the best companies should be there to listen to your concerns. They should not shrug you off but work with you to address your concerns. And if you are in need of more ideas or how to customize your current plan before the heavy work begins, speak up and let them know.

  1. Fully Trained

Strong customer service begins with fully trained employees. Workers who don’t know what they are doing or don’t fully understand their responsibilities cannot provide proper assistance to their clients. You want to ensure that all employees — no matter their job position or their role in the company — are fully trained. When the staff knows what they are doing, it not only reflects in their overall product but also with each client’s experience.

Safety Training: What You Should Know

When training employees, it shouldn’t simply be time spent focusing on a new policy or how to complete a certain document. Much attention should be placed on the safety of the workers, the home, and any other individual in proximity. Safety training should be mandatory and ongoing. It should not be a one-time training. While many contractors, such as The Renovators of Canada, make safety training a priority, here are a few things you should know and watch out for.

It Encompasses a Variety of Situations

This safety training should focus on a variety of situations from those that are very small and minor to major incidents. The better trained the employees are for certain situations, the more confident clients can feel trusting these workers in their home and with such major projects in their home.

It Is Ongoing

As mentioned previously, safety training should not be a one-time event. As safety policies and procedures change, new training should be made available to employees. Plus, employees should review the content they learn on a regular basis to help them stay up-to-date and ready for whatever the day may throw at them. Additionally, it is important that all employees receive thorough training when first hired to ensure they are trained and aware of any specific policies and procedures to prevent putting themselves or anyone else in danger.

Why the Renovators of Canada Are Your Best Choice

As you narrow down your options of contractors who can help you complete that bedroom renovation or the bathroom remodel in your Toronto home, The Renovators of Canada should be at the top of your list. Not only do they have all the basic needs such as licensing and insurance to ensure a legal project, but they are willing to listen to your needs and offer many ideas to add a custom look to your home. Plus, their extensive training helps you feel confident in their work and in the safety of your home and the workers in it.

Choosing contractors can feel overwhelming — sometimes just as overwhelming as the project itself — but with the right team to work with, you will have a beautiful home that you love and a hassle-free and incredible renovation process.

Contact The Renovators of Canada today to book a free planning session and experience an incredible home remodel.

7 High-Impact Changes to Transform Your Bathroom

Whether you are interested in transforming your master, main, or guest bathroom in your Markham home, this isn’t a time to feel intimidated. Once complete, a bathroom remodel can create a more functional and appealing space. While you can certainly gut this area and start all over, it isn’t always necessary. There are several changes that can make a big impact and drastically improve the look of your room. Let’s discuss seven high-impact changes that can go the distance.

1. Open Up More Space

The bathroom can be a very small and closed-off space. You will be spending time in this room every single day, so you want to design an area that feels large and functional. If your budget allows, renovate the bathroom so the space in this room is used wisely. For example, do you really need a tub and a shower? Is your vanity too large or do you have an unnecessary wall blocking off natural sunlight? By working closely with a contractor, you can remodel the bathroom in your home to create a more well-designed room. While knocking down walls and removing items can be time-consuming and labor-intensive renovations, they will be most effective when transforming this space.

2. Get Rid of the Shower Curtain

Upgrading your shower is an excellent investment, not only when creating a more functional space, but also if you plan to sell your home in the future. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry in the United States, most adults over the age of 45 prefer a shower to a bathtub and most prefer a barrier-free shower. This is a shower that allows you to walk right in without climbing over anything.

A barrier-free shower is not only the preferred option, but it also makes the bathroom appear larger and more open. While a traditional shower curtain is useful for adding color to the area, it makes the room look small and closed off. By getting rid of the curtain and using a glass shower door or even creating a deep shower that doesn’t require any type of door, your bathroom appears more bright and uncluttered. If you do have a shower and bathtub combination, you can still install a glass shower door to help open the entire room.

3. Choose a Freestanding Tub

The bathtub can be a statement piece in the room. However, many homeowners just choose the cheapest option, but this is rarely the most aesthetically-appealing. An alcove bathtub, for example, is one of the most common and popular bathtub options. This is a bathtub with three finished sides and it attaches directly to the wall. While this is a budget-friendly option, it is very basic and you will want to choose your tiles and backsplash carefully to make it stand out.

If space allows, choose a freestanding tub. This tub has four finished sides and sits in the room on its own. These options are very deep and design-friendly. They come with very classic plumbing options and when placed correctly in the room, they become a focal point. If you want some design-friendly ideas for bathtubs in your home, talk to your professional contractor for ideas.   

4. Add Built-In Shelves

If you have a smaller bathroom and are limited in space, built-in shelves are an excellent option. These not only create more storage for your bathroom necessities, but it is a great way to add some décor and color to the room. For example, if you have a long vanity and dual sinks, you can install built-in shelves in the middle of the mirror. This helps break-up the dual sinks and you can place colored towels, a lush plant, or candles to accessorize the bathroom without cluttering up the room.

5. Update the Fixtures

Not all upgrades to your bathroom have to be large and costly. Even small updates can impact the look of your area. For example, get rid of that old brass faucet and install a waterfall faucet instead. If you have space and you want a new towel rack, don’t settle for a low-quality option. Choose one that matches the other features in your room and adds some design and contrast. Additionally, you may choose to store your towels in your built-in shelves or even use hooks to save on wall space.

A few fixtures that are simple to update and can make a big difference in your bathroom include:

  •      Sink faucet
  •      Showerhead
  •      Lightswitch plates
  •      Light fixture
  •      Vanity hardware
  •      Towel racks

6. Focus on the Tile and Backsplash

Whether you want to install tile on the bathroom floor, around the sink, or above the bathtub and shower, this one decision is going to instantly transform your bathroom. There are many types of materials to choose from such as porcelain, ceramic, and stone. These each have many benefits and varying price points so you must determine your budget, your willingness to maintain and clean the material, and other relevant considerations.

As you choose the tile and backsplash in your home, consider the final look. Choose tiles that will complement the colors well with your paint and vanity. If you do not have much natural light in the space, it is also best to choose bright tiles. If you have difficulty choosing the right type of tiles for your home, work with your bathroom remodeling contractor in Toronto. They can help you choose the right type of materials and colors that will work best for your lifestyle and the look of your room.

7. Choose the Right Vanity

Not all vanities are right for your space. While you want to choose a bathroom vanity that not only fits your style and needs, it also must fit the space of the room well. For example, if you have little space and the room is not used often, a pedestal sink may be ideal to make the room look more open and create a very classic, simple look. Additionally, you can choose a corner vanity to help create a more functional area with a little counter space. However, if you have a much larger bathroom, such as a master, you may want a vanity with underneath storage options.

Choosing a vanity can be difficult as there are many options and factors to consider. Custom vanity options may be ideal to help you get exactly what you want in terms of your style and space.

If you are interested in transforming your bathroom into an area that is functional, storage-friendly, and eye-catching, keep these renovation ideas in mind. They can instantly change the look of the space, as well as the overall feel of a room that’s vital to your home.

If you are ready to tackle this project and create a functional and gorgeous bathroom in your home, give The Renovators of Canada a call. They can help you design and transform your bathroom into a masterpiece, along with any other areas of your home from the kitchen to the basement. Give them a call today for more information and to schedule a consultation.

The 9 Hottest Trends in Kitchen Renovations

Whether you are completing a full kitchen renovation or just making several upgrades to improve the space, sorting through all the many trends and designs ideas can feel overwhelming. You want to create a room that is functional, beautiful, and practical. Plus, you want to ensure that it contains all the features and characteristics that you need and will last for years to come. To help you create a kitchen that is stylish, trendy, and gorgeous, here are 9 of the hottest trends in kitchen renovations.

1. Two-Toned Kitchens

For the past several years, all-white kitchens have been all the rage. Many homeowners have chosen white subway tiles, white cabinets, white countertops, etc., But, this design trend is slowly starting to fade. Many individuals are now turning to two-toned kitchens.

This trend is a simple way to add a significant amount of color to the area. You will see this trend primarily on cabinets but also backsplashes and paint colors as well. It is a great way to brighten up the room and if you aren’t brave enough to design a bright and bold kitchen, this is a great starting space. Two-toned kitchens can include any color such as greens, purples, and blues. And if you want to a more subtle look, tans, taupes, and grays are extremely popular.

2. Open Cabinets

More homes are choosing open cabinets rather than the traditional storage option. Open shelving not only adds a lot of contrast and texture to the space, but it is also a convenience. This allows homeowners to place their most-used items within arm’s reach and prevents it from sitting directly on the counters, cluttering up the room. However, with this trend, you must be cautious to not put too much on these shelves as it creates a cluttered and messy look.

3. Wood Flooring

Hardwood floors have been a trend for many years and it shows no sign of leaving. This type of flooring provides a very classic look and goes well with a variety of home décor styles such as farmhouse and minimalist.

There are many benefits to hardwood flooring including its durability. This type of flooring can easily handle the wear that comes from daily foot traffic. And, it is extremely low maintenance and requires very little effort to keep it looking great for years to come. Plus, it handles spills and messes well and is easy to clean.

You can also enjoy much versatility with this flooring option as you can choose a variety of wood types such as oak, maple, and walnut. If you want a more cost-friendly option, you can find flooring options such as laminate and vinyl that look like wood.

4. Unique Light Fixtures

A well-lit kitchen area is essential. Not only is ample lighting important for your meal prep and cooking, but also for creating a space that you want to gather and spend time in. If you don’t have much light in the kitchen, this should become a priority during kitchen remodeling in Oakville. Consider installing additional lighting options such as under-cabinet lights, lighting in the pantry, etc.

For your main light source, choose statement fixtures. These are light fixtures that can become a focal piece. For example, consider an elegant chandelier or install unique pendant lights over an island or kitchen sink. You may also consider zone lighting, which is recessed lighting split up into areas throughout your kitchen. This allows you to brighten up certain areas of the room where you are working such as over the sink, large counter space, the stove, etc.

5. Dark Color Schemes

Choosing light and neutral colors has been recommended if you plan on selling your home in the future. But, today, many homeowners are branching out and including very bold and dark colors throughout the kitchen area. Black is becoming increasingly popular as cabinet colors, seating options, paint colors, and countertops. Other bold colors that are becoming popular include reds, blues, purples, and greens.

Keep in mind that if you choose to include a bold and dark color into your kitchen’s color scheme, you want to choose colors that accent it well and don’t create an overwhelming space. For example, if you desire a black kitchen, don’t go all black. Rather, choose a black island with white cabinetry lining the walls.

6. Smart Kitchens

During a kitchen remodel, you can’t forget about your appliances. Not only will new appliances enhance the look of the room, but they will save a considerable amount of energy each month on your utility bills.For example, when you purchase a new energy-efficient refrigerator, you will use approximately15% less energy than non-certified products.

But, saving energy isn’t the only reason to consider new appliances, many of these newer products boast smart capabilities, that add convenience, functionality, and safety to your home. Smart fridges feature built-in computers where you can view recipes or check the daily weather. You can also purchase products with built-in cameras that allow you to look inside your fridge while walking down the aisles at the grocery store.

A few smart appliances you should consider include:

  • Refrigerators
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Coffee makers
  • Ovens
  • Ranges

7. Quartz Countertops

While granite countertops have been a top choice for homeowners, quartz is quickly stepping in. This material is not only durable, but it boasts a long lifespan, which makes it an appealing option for many individuals who plan to live in their home for years to come. Additionally, quartz is anti-microbial and extremely simple to maintain — even more so than granite — which makes it an ideal substance for this room.

8. Simplicity in Every Aspect

Many homeowners are turning away from cluttered, full kitchens to a very simple, tidy look. As these individuals are completing home renovations in Waterloo, they are focusing more on the layout of the kitchen and ensuring it all flows and that you aren’t covering too much ground for all your dinner prep, cooking, and cleanup.

Additional ways that individuals are creating more simplicity in the kitchen is by removing top cabinets and focusing more on open shelving or expansive storage options. Additionally, those with smaller kitchen areas should consider a simpler look and layout as it helps the room appear inviting, large, and open.

9. Ceiling Treatments

Ceiling treatments are making big statements in kitchen areas and rightly so. This element adds an entirely new focal point to any home and when done correctly, can help an area appear larger. Additionally, there are a wide variety of ways to create stunning ceiling treatments so they are unique and stand out from other houses on your street. During your home renovations in Richmond Hill, talk to your contractor about how to add this creative design element to your home.

If you are ready to create a stunning kitchen area in your Canadian home, contact the experts at The Renovators of Canada to begin. They can help you tackle this large project and create a space that you, your family, and all your guests will love each time they walk into the home. Give us a call today for more information.

7 Signs That Your Bathroom is Due for a Renovation

When it comes to renovating your house, sometimes it seems like it is a never-ending project and there is always so much to be done.  In times like these, it becomes crucial to prioritize what is most important or most in need of completion and tackle that project as your main concern. Here are seven signs that your bathroom needs to be the first one:

1.     It is Leaking

There is a lot of water in the bathroom. It comes from the sink, it comes from the toilet, it comes from the tub or shower, and it comes from the air due to vapor and steam. If you have a pipe underneath your bathroom sink that is constantly leaking, if there is always water sitting around the edges of the toilet bowl, or if the faucet in your tub is permanently dripping, there is a good chance your bathroom might need a renovation. While you can always opt to simply have the plumbing fixed or focus on investigating where the water might be coming from, the process may be extensive and a complete renovation and overhaul may be a better use of your time and resources.

2.     Your Floor is Damaged

Just like you may have observed leaking from your faucet, toilet or tub, as indicated above, there are more areas of destruction that water can cause that may be indicative of the need to renovate. One of the most common of these is damage to your floors. When water leaks it is not always visible and may start its leaking underneath your floor boards.  This is common when the issues causing the leakage are in the pipes that are under the floor or in the wall. As a result, the first sign of a problem may be damage to your floors, as water gets underneath and causes the floors to start lifting or becoming stained and discoloured.  If this is the cause of damage, it is often an extensive process for repair, whereby you will have to rip up floors or rip out your walls, and as such, it presents a good time to undertake a renovation.

3.     There is Visible Mold

Just like water can cause damage to your floors, leak under your cupboards, and drip annoyingly out of your faucet, it can also be the root of bigger problem: mold. Mold thrives in warm, moist environments, making the bathroom its ideal living space. You may see it appear first along the edges of your shower or bath, or as dark spots on the ceiling.  Once it shows up, it will only get worse, and may already be looming behind the walls or ceiling where you can’t see it. With mold in the house, you and your family are at risk for an increased number of health concerns, so it is important to attend to the situation as soon as possible.

4.     Your Paint is Peeling

While you may not see mold, another indicator of damage coming from steam within the bathroom – and a good reason to renovate – is paint peeling off the walls. The constant water presence in the air can break down the paint and cause it to start peeling.  This is especially relevant if your bathroom was built and painted a few years ago, before paint was of a higher quality like it is now, whereby it can sustain more water and steam exposure.

5.     It is Outdated

Perhaps a less obvious sign, and subjective to an individual’s taste, an outdated bathroom is a great reason to tackle a renovation. If you have only a bathtub and no shower, you still have wallpaper covering all of the walls, or the faucets and plumbing are hard to operate and dripping, it’s a good indication that your bathroom is outdated.  While an outdated bathroom is something you may have gotten used to, understanding its nuances and unique characteristics, if you have future plans to sell your home, a bathroom renovation is a necessity. This is particularly true if it is the only bathroom in the home or if it is missing a shower and relying on a bathtub alone.

6.     You Can’t See Very Well

When you first built your bathroom, the lighting selection you made was likely based on typical recommendations from your contractor and was quite standard for most homes.  In the last several years however, lighting options have dramatically increased and there is a much broader range of availability on the market.  You can select different lights for different areas of the bathroom, like having lights in front of the mirror that are optimized for seeing in the mirror, while the lights over the shower are optimized for functioning in steam and water.  Furthermore, you can have added features such as heat lights or lights which can be dimmed and brightened as necessary. Bathroom lighting makes a huge difference to the overall bathroom atmosphere and ambience, and is not something to be neglected when it comes to a renovation project.

7.     It Lacks Storage

If you built your bathroom and your home before you had kids or when you had a smaller family, you may have felt at the time that the storage was adequate. Now however, with more people and more stuff, the small closet in the bathroom just isn’t going to cut it.  There are many ways to add increased storage to your bathroom, or to more efficiently use the space in your bathroom, and this is something that is worthy of doing during a renovation.  In addition, you will also be able to make other changes at the same time, such as improve the lighting, paint the walls, or add additional hooks, which can allow you more space for towels and bathroom supplies.

Do you have some of these signs in your house and are thinking it is time to tackle your bathroom for a renovation? If so, it’s a great time to take on the project, but certainly isn’t something you should do alone. Instead, reach out to TRO Canada. Our expert team is more than equipped to help you successfully renovate your bathroom and we’ll make sure to have everything done in a timely and efficient manner. Call us up today to find out more!

Splurge vs. Save: What to Invest in on a Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen remodel in Toronto can help you create a home that you love. The kitchen tends to be the gathering place of the home and it should reflect that welcoming feeling. By renovating this space, you not only create a more beautiful and functional area, but it can also drastically increase your home’s sale value. You can receive a return investment of up to 82% for even a minor kitchen remodel.

Luckily, you don’t have to drain your bank account, and there are several areas where you can save a little money during the remodel. On the other hand, there are also projects where you should not take any shortcuts. Let’s explore a few of the best areas for splurging, or saving, during your kitchen renovation.

Flooring

The flooring in your kitchen will see a significant amount of traffic every single day. When you choose cheaper, low-quality products to save a little money, you will get what you pay for. You may find that the flooring wears down faster, damages easily, and you may have to reinstall flooring much sooner than if you choose higher-quality products.

When you choose the right kitchen flooring, you need to find products that are not only durable, but can handle food, water, and dirt with ease. You also want flooring that is easy to clean and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. Luckily, there are many possibilities. Tile and stone are some of the best options if you want a material that can handle most elements, kids, and pets. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, giving you plenty of options for your kitchen.

Wood is another excellent option and is known for its versatility. It matches many décor styles and trends and can handle food and water well. This flooring option is also extremely easy to maintain and clean. Plus, it can last for a long time.

Layout

When remodeling your kitchen, the layout and the design of the space should be a priority. Not only do you need a kitchen that is functional, but one that is open and caters to the traffic that comes in and out every single day. You need to ensure the layout of the kitchen is functional. For example, you don’t want to place your dishwasher a far distance from your sink — it just doesn’t make sense.

If you are considering a major kitchen remodeling project in Oakville, it is important you do it right. You may need to knock down walls or install additional cabinets and countertops to create the space that you desire. If you have a small kitchen, the layout and design of the kitchen are even more important as space is limited. You should work with professional contractors to help you design a space that is open, functional, and meets your specific needs.

Countertops

Your kitchen countertop will not only be used constantly throughout the day, but it is visible. You need countertops that are durable, easy to clean, attractive, and a conversation starter. Countertops are similar to flooring because there are dozens of options available and you get what you pay for. In some cases, like with granite, the material is available in various grades so you can still receive the benefits of the stone, yet you don’t have to hurt your budget. You will need to determine your own needs when determining the right product.

Appliances

You may use the appliances in your kitchen every single day. This means that you don’t want to choose low-quality products. You should consider products with energy-efficient features to help cut down your monthly utility costs and those with strong warranties to ensure that if any problems do arise, parts and replacements costs won’t drain your savings. Plus, the higher-quality products you purchase, the longer their lifespan will be.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to go overboard and buy the latest and most expensive models available. You should consider your own lifestyle needs and what features make the most sense for you. Additionally, if you are trying to create a cohesive and trendy kitchen, you should look at installing appliances with similar finishes such as stainless steel. A mismatched kitchen can quickly turn your newly remodeled kitchen into an eyesore.

Lighting

A well-lit area creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. This is particularly important in the kitchen area of the home. You don’t want just a few lights above the sink – you need to have adequate lighting throughout the entire room. To do this, you should consider ambient, accent, and task lighting. Task lighting is often overlooked but can make a difference in the space. Task lighting is lights around the kitchen that can be turned on to make your jobs easier, such as lights underneath or on top of kitchen cabinets. If you need to brighten up the space, make sure to do it well and hire someone who can install the right light fixtures throughout the entire room.

Cabinets

The kitchen cabinets are one structure in the kitchen where you can either splurge or save. If your kitchen cabinets are structurally sound, there is no reason to tear them out and replace them. It may require a little extra work, but a deep cleaning, sanding, and a few new coats of paint can breathe new life into your entire kitchen for the cost of paint and supplies.

However, if your kitchen cabinets are in need of repair, it is worth the investment to install new cabinets. When choosing high-quality materials, these products will last 50 years or longer. In addition, if you want to save a little extra with your cabinets, there are options to consider, like open shelves and cabinetry.

Backsplash

The backsplash is also an area in your kitchen where you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars. You can achieve a terrific look with durable materials with less expensive products. You still need to find a balance between quality and cost, as some inexpensive products are more prone to breaking and chipping and they don’t clean easily. However, you can easily find products that match your style and décor choices without hurting your budget.

When you remodel your kitchen, it is important you do it right. Whether a minor kitchen remodel or a complete overhaul, it is vital that you not only use the right materials but they are installed correctly. To begin your kitchen remodel in Burlington, schedule a consultation with T-ROC today and begin planning the kitchen of your dreams.

Top 5 Reasons to Renovate

We all have different reasons as to why we would renovate our homes.  The important thing to realize is why you are doing it, and that your decision is right for you.  Here are 5 of the main reasons why our customers renovate their homes;

  1. They simply want something better – as we go through our lives our tastes and attitudes change.  The kitchen or bathroom that was perfect when you were just starting out lacks some of the new renovation options that are available today.  Wanting some of the comforts to make our lives a little bit easier or more enjoyable becomes important to us.  Some of the many new features are heated floors, heated towel bars, rain head showers with a hand held option, stone or hard surface counter tops, built in appliances, soft close doors and drawers – the list goes on and on.  When you are ready to renovate your home there is no shame in wanting to induldge in the finer things that life can offer.
  2. Family is changing – Over time our families can grow and as a result we need more usable space.  Finishing the basement so that the kids have a place to hang out with their friends or creating a space for your relatives to live.  An extra bathroom or bedroom is great for guests and gives them some privacy while visiting.
  3. Selling your home – our homes are often are biggest investment in our lives and keeping it up to date and current will drive a bigger sale price when you are ready to sell.  Buyers will often want discounts when your home is out of date or when it is in need of repair.  Companies make profits on “flipping houses”, don’t let your house become someone else’s flip.  Key areas to update – kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and paint.
  4. Income Suite – looking to make a little extra money every month and help pay down that mortgage?  Check your local by-laws about the possibility of creating a basement income suite.  Our customers have often been able to get financing to finish the renovation. Once the suite is rented they have been able to pay for the financing as well as put some money towards their mortgage every month.
  5. The house is showing its age and needs some TLC – houses need maintenance, they won’t last forever if we don’t look after them.  Over time many of your homes features will deteriorate.  Some of the more common areas are;
    1. windows and doors – replacing your windows can improve your homes look as well as reduce your energy costs.
    2. Gutters and downspouts – its so important to keep the water away from your foundation.  Next time it rains check to ensure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris and that the water is flowing well.  Extend the downspouts to at least 4′ away from your foundation.
    3. caulking – caulking only last a few years.  You should be removing the existing caulking from your tubs and showers and re-caulking them every 3-5 years.  This will keep the water from penetrating the wall surfaces and causing rot and mold.
    4. tile and grout – over the years tiles can crack and grout can become dislodged from in between the tiles.  Its important to inspect your washroom and replace any broken tiles and re-grout any areas where the grout is missing.
    5. exterior vent covers – most exterior vent covers are vinyl (plastic) and dry out over time.  When they dry out they crack and fall apart.  This can allow birds to make nests inside the vent pipes or allow water to penetrate your exterior building envelope.  If they are in disrepair take the time to change them.

What ever the reason you are renovating for, be sure to take the time to plan, and create a budget that works for you. Doing your research is the most important step of any renovation project.

 

 

Simple Steps to Follow When Painting Your Room’s Walls

Is the paint on your walls peeling, cracking, or showing wear? This is not a big problem; to get perfectly painted walls follow these basic steps.

 

Clean the Walls

Before anything else, make sure that your walls are clean. No grease, dirt, or dust must be sticking on the wall. Do note that skipping this step will ruin your paint’s finish.

 

To clean your wall, just get a sponge, water, and mild detergent. Lather the detergent on the water, dab the sponge, and rub the sponge on the wall. After that, rinse the walls with water, and let it dry.  You can also use a product called TSP which is specifically designed for cleaning walls prior to painting.

 

Patching

When preparing your walls use drywall compound or a product called Drydex to cover any holes or blemishes.  Drydex goes on pink and dries white.  Sometimes these marks can be very difficult to see, it largely depends on the light in the room.  If you are very keen on details you can take a flashlight and slowly go over the walls from end to end.  You should be able to see all marks and blemishes using this process.

Once the patching material you use is dry, be sure to sand it with a flat surfaced sponge sander.  If you use a piece of sandpaper and your hand when you sand it is difficult to get a smooth wall.  Once you have completed sanding, clean all of the dust and debris by wiping down the walls with a damp cloth.

Once all of the dust is cleaned, it is time to caulk the gaps, cracks that may be showing between the trims and the walls.  When applying caulking use a damp cloth to wipe away the excess.  Using your finger doesn’t work as well and can leave an uneven finish.

Do Not Skip on the Prime

Depending on the colour you are painting, the walls may need to be primed.  You can have the primer tinted to reduce the number of coats of paint you may need to get an even finish.  There are also products that have the paint and the primer in one can – a great innovation for the painting industry!  Prior to coating the whole wall with primer, go over each of your patched areas with primer and a brush.  New compound needs the extra primer or the spots may show once you have completed painting.

Taping

Once all of the caulking and patching is dry.  To prevent a painting mess, make sure that you use painter’s tape (the blue or green tape you see in hardware stores). Tape the places you do not want to get painted (e.g., door frames, window, trim, etc.). It is very important to remove the tape before the paint dries.  If you wait, the new paint and the tape will stick together and when you remove the tape the paint may peel off with the tape.

Cleaning, Patching, Priming Complete – Time to Put on the Colour

Once you have the trims and ceiling taped off, complete all of the edging with a 2 – 2 1/2 inch brush.  For those tight to reach areas have a small brush handy.  If you can, work quickly so that you can roll the walls before the edging paint is completely dry.  This will help to reduce any potential lines.  Prior to rolling the paint on the walls remove all painters tape.

When rolling on the paint be careful not to put on too much paint at once.  If you do put on too much paint it may “run” or show drips.  A key to having a professional painting finish is to back roll all of the walls.  This means that once you have completed the wall or area you are painting, go back to the beginning and re-roll the wall without any new paint on your roller.  Be sure to have the part that connects the roller to your handle leading.  When you apply pressure with your roller, there will be more pressure on the side that is connected to the handle.  If the high pressure portion of the roller is trailing you may leave streaks.

Do Not Forget the Trim

Once you are done painting the walls and removing the tape it is time to paint the trims, and doors. This is the job that really counts – a quality paint job shows up the most on how well (or straight) you can paint the lines between the trims and the walls.

All done!  Time to step back and enjoy your handy work!

 

Renovation or Relocation

 

Renovation can be costly. Relocation can be a huge headache. But which will be the better choice? In some point in time, you could have asked this to yourself. Many factors should be considered. And this article will let you articulate and think about those considerations and factors.

Consider the Location of the New Property You are Eyeing

Are you prepared to leave the neighborhood that you were living in for years? Is the new property seated on a very convenient location? Those are just a few of the important questions you must ask yourself. And here are a few more:

  1. If you have a kid, is the local school good for your child?
  2. Is it near a market or mall? Is it walking distance from the new property?
  3. Is the property scalable? Are you allowed to renovate or expand the house on it?
  4. Is the house on the property a cookie-cutter house? Is it identical to the houses of your neighbor? Are you okay with that?
  5. Will you get what you want and will it be much more cost effective to relocate than renovate?

Some of these things can make or break your plan to relocate. Some of them cannot be controlled, which can easily make you create a decision for your family. Of course, your answers to those questions depend on your priorities.

Can You Let Go of Your House?

Have you made a lot of memories there and are you willing to let go of that special place? This is an essential factor that you must consider. Leaving your current house can be heartbreaking. Make sure that you also consult the other family members. Some of them might not handle letting go of the friends and places they have been accustomed and familiar with after all these years.

Is Your Budget Ready?

Remember that relocating might seem inexpensive first. However, you should know that it could be costly, too. You will need to hire movers, cleaners, and even real estate agents. You might also need to finish some contracts if you are renting. And you will be required to update some documents to reflect the changes in your address, and so on.

Why Renovate Instead?

If you are going to sell your house to relocate, it will be a good move to perform a renovation first. The good thing here is that the value of your property will rise. And you can easily get the amount of money you have spent on the renovation job.

On the other hand, it will delay your relocation plan. If you suddenly change your mind, then you will still have a nice house to keep. If your mind does not change, you still get to sell your old house on a higher price.

In a Nutshell

Depending on your priorities and family members, this decision can be complex or simple. Make sure to talk to them first. Having a nice house is good, but living with depressed people is much worse.

How to Have the Perfect Renovation Job

When renovating something in your home, the first rule that you should remind yourself is to be realistic. The second thing that you should think about is budget. Forgetting about those two will only spell a fail renovation, and a possibly empty pocket.

A friendly tip, which should be obvious to everyone, is to do some research. Do not let get your impulsive self do the best of you. Also, we want to remind you, and are future clients, that renovation costs do not end with us or any contractor that you will choose. You will also need to be mindful that you will or might need to get a few new appliances and materials to complete the renovation.

In addition, you set aside some extra money for unexpected expenses — whether it would come from the renovation job or any personal or financial problem you would suddenly encounter. Do note that just one unexpected expense can ruin your renovation plan. It might leave some walls unpainted, ceilings unfurnished, or even floors incomplete.

Disregarding our interests, we advise you to at least ask three contractors for quotes. But regardless of that, we assure you that getting us might be least expensive or inexpensive than our competitors, but you can rest assured that you will get quality work.

On the other hand, when it comes to your future appliances, spend time shopping around first. Your missus should certainly love that work if you are the man of the house.

As a perpetual advice, budget is always the name of the game when it comes to renovation. Without careful considerations of what you want and which factors you need to ponder about with the renovation job, you will only waste money and end up with a bad renovation work. No contractor would want to be blamed by a client who got his or her budget mixed up.

If you are interested in our services, you might want to contact us directly. We will even help you get some ideas on how much money you can spend and save when you hire us for the renovation work you want to get done.

Our contact numbers are there, and we would politely help you decide if you, and your finances, are ready to get a new look for the room or rooms that you want to renovate!

We can help build your project!

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905.554.7000
519.900.6206

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