basement

7 Home Improvement Projects to Never DIY

As a homeowner, you have no shortage of responsibility. Many maintenance tasks must be completed to keep your home functional and in excellent condition. To help you save some costs, you may consider completing many of these home improvement projects on your own. While there are some benefits to tackling these projects by yourself, sometimes being your own handyman isn’t the wisest decision. There are many home improvement projects that you should never complete on your own. To name a few… 

1. Plumbing

It should be a general rule in your home to never touch the pipes and DIY plumbing projects. The plumbing on your property is a complex system. One small mistake could cause extensive damage and hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in repairs. If you are completing major home improvement projects in your home such as remodeling your current bathroom or adding a new bathroom, always hire a professional. If there are smaller tasks you need to accomplish like unclogging a toilet or replacing a faucet, these are tasks that you can likely DIY. 

However, if you have any concerns or questions regarding the task, no matter how large or small, call a plumber. You will save time and energy and you will reduce the risk of damage. 

2. Improving Your Kitchen Layout

It isn’t uncommon for homeowners to desire major changes to their kitchen. Their current kitchen may have a disorganized and poorly-designed layout or feel small and cramped. If you want to make some changes to the kitchen design, always hire a professional contractor in Toronto. 

When you remodel a kitchen, you can potentially run into many issues. You must also complete a myriad of tasks from electrical work, painting, woodworking, cabinetry, etc. If you are not a professional in all of these areas, doing a poor job can affect the look of the room or you may experience even more problems. Some projects may also require specific permits that you may not know about or you do not properly acquire. Hiring a contractor can reduce the stress and physical exertion from this project and you will likely be more satisfied with the final result. 

3. Installing New Flooring

New flooring throughout your home can make a major difference to the overall look and feel of your space. It can turn an outdated room into a comfortable, updated living area. Plus, by installing timeless flooring options, such as hardwood, you can make the home more appealing to potential buyers and increase your home’s value if you wish to sell the property in the future. 

There are several flooring options available ranging from carpet, stone, linoleum, hardwood, more. By giving this home improvement project to the pros, you have an expert on your side to help you choose the right type of flooring for the specific space. Plus, you may be one of the unlucky few who find many problems such as mold, mildew, or warped wood, lurking underneath your current flooring. A professional will know how to handle the situation, help you find the best treatment option, and ensure the situation is handled quickly and properly. 

4. Installing and Sealing Grout

Grout is a porous substance. It absorbs bacteria, grime, dirt, and other elements. When these items are absorbed, it gives the grout a dirty, grimy appearance. To prevent this from happening, the grout must be installed correctly and properly sealed. If not, the lifespan of the grout is decreased, it is more susceptible to damage, and the grout’s damage can affect your tiles. Plus, if the sealant is not installed properly, it can cause bubbles or gaps where moisture can seep into the grout, causing mold and mildew. 

There are many grout DIY kits available and tutorials online that you may wish to follow to seal the grout around your home. However, while these can provide you some guidance, even the smallest mistake can cause significant problems in the long term. You should always hire a professional to tackle any grout-related project, regardless of where it is in your home. Many of these experts can also help you recolour and sanitize these areas as well. 

5. Remodeling Your Basement

Remodeling the basement in your Markham home is a large project. Even if you are in no rush to complete the task, it should never be something you try to DIY. There may be many aspects to this project from plumbing and electrical work to sheetrock and flooring. If you also want to create a basement that is unique and has customised spaces, a professional is best to assist. Not only will this individual have many unique and appealing ideas for you to implement in your basement, they can also tackle any issues that you may experience and ensure that all projects are completed well. 

6. Installing New Windows 

There are many benefits to installing new windows throughout your home. New glass panes will not only improve the look in both the interior and on the exterior of the home, but they will increase your home’s energy efficiency as well. New windows can also improve the temperature control in your home, providing for a more comfortable and relaxing space. 

While installing windows in your home may seem like a very simple task, it is not. At the beginning of the process, you will want a professional to consult with. You will want to make sure you have the best products for your home. A professional can also spot any issues you may have with the project and help you throughout the process. 

Additionally, when you install windows, they must be installed correctly. The right supplies and installation techniques will make all the difference during this critical project. When windows are installed incorrectly, your home’s energy-efficiency may suffer, it can affect the cosmetic appearance of your home, and you increase the risk of small gaps that let air, bugs, dirt, and other elements in and out of the home. 

7. Electrical Work

Similar to plumbing, electrical work is a complex system. However, when it comes to this aspect of the home, one small mistake can not only damage your entire system but it can cause severe injury. Additionally, when the work is not completed well or there are errors made, you greatly increase your risk of a fire in your home. When completing any type of major electrical project, it is not only important for the safety of yourself but for your home as well. 

There are many electrical projects you may wish to complete such as creating additional electrical sockets in a room, installing more lighting, etc. If working on these projects with minimal know-how, you may mess with the system and cause extensive problems that will not only take more time to solve but can cost you more in the long run as well. 

Keep in mind that every electrical project will not require the help of an electrician. For example, some tasks such as replacing outdated light switches or electrical cover plates are simple to accomplish. Installing many new light fixtures are also very simple and by following the detailed instructions provided, can be accomplished quickly and easily. 

Luckily, finding a professional to complete the work for you and who will deliver high-quality no matter the project is easy when you work with The Renovators of Canada. These home renovation experts in Toronto will work closely with you to help you complete a project that you love. They have the ideas and the expertise to create a dream space and to ensure all of your projects are completed quickly and have the result that you desire. Call The Renovators of Canada today to schedule your consultation. 

6 Simple Ways to Customize Your Basement

Renovating the basement in your Toronto home is like many other home remodeling projects: overwhelming, yet exciting. When it comes to this area of your home, the opportunities are endless. There are many ways you can customize and design this space so it meets your family’s needs, increases your home’s value, adds cosmetic appeal, and so much more. However, before you jump into this long project, there are several things you should consider to ensure it is done correctly and you are happy with the final result. 

 What is your home currently missing? 

 Before your basement remodel, consider what your home is missing. This could be features like a place for your kids to hang out with friends, an area for guests to stay, a designated work or study area, etc. As you focus on your basement remodel, keep this list in mind. 

 How can I make this space comfortable? 

 The basement can be one area of the home that is rarely used. There are several reasons for this, but often, it is because this space is dark, crowded, poorly designed, etc. As you consider various customization options, projects, and layouts for your basement, consider how you can make this space more comfortable and welcoming. When your project is complete, you want to ensure this area of your home is well used. 

 What dirty work is involved? 

 A basement renovation in your Stouffville home is more than simply putting up walls and laying a new floor. There are many hidden details that must be taken care of including electrical and plumbing work to waterproofing. You may also need certain permits and have regular inspections completed as well. You should have a team of professionals handling all these small details to ensure everything is well cared for and you can create your dream living space. 

 Once you have asked yourself the above questions, it is time to get to work. No matter if you want to create the ultimate gathering and entertaining area for your family and friends, desire a few extra bedrooms, or even a home office, here are several simple things you can do to customize your basement and create a beautiful, cozy, and functional living area.

 1. Built-In Storage Options

 Basements can be excellent storage areas. This is the area of your home where you can place the belongings that you don’t need every day but you want to protect and access when necessary. A basement remodel in your Markham home is the perfect opportunity to create custom storage options. 

 Built-in shelves are popular options for any room in your basement. If you have a large living room, consider long, floating shelves for pictures and décor items. Cover one wall in your basement with built-in shelves and turn it into a small library. You can also create a room in your basement and line the space with built-in shelving, making it perfect for food storage, emergency preparedness items, holiday décor, tools, and other miscellaneous items.

 One unique storage option you may also consider is a built-in wine cellar. Customize this area of your home with unique wine bottle storage options such as shelves, drawers, glass holders, etc. To truly make this room shine, consider installing an air ventilation system and provide the proper insulation for all of your wine connoisseur needs. 

 2. Downstairs Laundry Room

Regardless if you have a laundry room on your main floor, an additional laundry room downstairs is an excellent way to provide convenience, particularly for those downstairs bedrooms. Your basement laundry room doesn’t have to be large or extravagant, but it is a great way to customize your space. Add a small sink and lots of cupboards and shelving in the room. You may also consider a small supply closet, which is perfect for all your cleaning supplies and extra linens. 

 3. Children’s Room

If you are looking to build an additional room for your child or you want a place for grandchildren or guests to stay, turn a room in your basement into the ultimate children’s space. Be creative with the different features in this room to give it a unique look and feel. For example, consider built-in bunk beds. This is a great way to open up the room and it offers plenty of floor space for your children to play. 

If you have a teenager who wants his or her own space, you may also consider a built-in desk. A small alcove with a desk and bench seat is a great way to give teens their own space to study. 

4. Forget the Walls

A basement is a part of the home that can cater to multiple interests and be used for many purposes. Often, basements can seem small and cramped. However, with a little creativity and design help, you can still enjoy many of these rooms but with a more open floor plan. 

One option is to create one large, open space for a family room, eating area, and media center.  You may consider using sliding glass walls or barn doors to act as a barrier in the basement but still provide a very open and bright atmosphere. 

Another simple way to break up the different areas of your basement, while still maintaining an open floor plan, is to use unique flooring in each section of your basement. For example, you can install carpet in your family room, hardwood in your eating areas, and rubber mats in your home gym area. 

5. Don’t Forget the Stairs

As your guests walk down into your newly-renovated basement, the first thing they will notice is your stairs. Take the time to truly customize this feature and give it a personal touch. For example, create a unique mural or pattern on the wall, install light-up steps, and more. You may also consider unique and fun railings or built-in shelving along the stairway. If possible, you may want to build your stairs with unique materials such as tile, metal, wood, etc. Have fun with this area of your home and make it a unique and creative focal point. 

 6. Brighten up The Space

There is no reason the basement in your home needs to be dark and dreary. When these areas of your home have very little light, it creates an unwelcoming and bleak space. As you work to customize the basement in your Vaughan home, pay attention to the lighting in the room. Choose unique and elegant light fixtures. Consider pendant lighting above seating areas and accent lighting throughout the entire space. You may also consider smart light fixtures that allow you to dim the lights, turn them off, or flip them on when upstairs or away from the home. 

Additionally, strive to add  natural light. If possible, install large windows or design a walkout basement. For smaller windows, add a creative touch with windows that feature unique designs and accents within the glass panes.

If you choose to work with professionals, like The Renovators of Canada, you will have a basement that you love. These home renovation experts will work with you to apply all of your great ideas and customize a space that not only increases your home’s value but is functional, spacious, and gorgeous. Call The Renovators of Canada today to schedule your consultation.   

Getting the Most Out of Your Basement

The Dream is Within Reach

Basement renovations have become incredibly popular for many reasons, but the main reason has been to take advantage of the extra square footage that you have sitting below your main floor. Basements are being renovated with more sophistication. Whether it is a new home office, gym, bedroom, family room, or even sometimes a kitchen!  The basement has given many families the square footage they need to turn their home into a dream home! With more complex basement renovations, means more opportunities for poorly renovated basements. To eliminate the possibilities of a poor renovation, asking a professional to work with you on your renovation plan is significantly important. A professional can help guide you in the right direction. A professional can also take care of all the stress that is attached to performing a renovation. Most likely you have a budget for this basement renovation, and having a professional show you your options in that price range is important as well. Beginning a renovation that is clearly out of your price range can lead to you spending much more dough than you had originally planned to spend. Hiring professional costs money, but this initial investment will allow you to stick to your budget and to renovate your basement perfectly.

Lighting Changes Everything!

I am only going to discuss one significantly important factor to consider when performing a basement renovation. Many people looking to renovate their basements forget to add quality recessed lighting. This means installing lights into the ceiling of your basement. The reason I am emphasizing this aspect of the basement, is due to the fact that most basements have little natural light. Windows tend to be quite small in basements, therefore giving off a dark and sometimes dingy feel. Adding excellent lighting in your basement will give your basement the brightness it needs to be a welcoming space for your family and friends. Recess lighting also saves a lot of space that would otherwise be wasted on lamp space. Saving on space for lamps will give you the ability to truly take advantage of the extra square footage you are accumulating through your basement renovation.

O Canada

Our next blog will include more tips on basement renovations. Living in Canada may give us a tough winter, but having the extra square footage is excellent for us Canadians. We should all use our basements wisely, and this is why we will be creating another blog on basement renovation! We want to help you create your dream home! Remember, if you are going to dream, you might as well dream big!

Written By: Jake Fortinsky

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