kitchen

Home Design Trends for 2020

When in doubt, neutrals are almost always the best way to go. There’s nothing simple about neutrals. White is not simply white. Rather, white comes in a multitude of different shades. For example, white paint can be ivory, or it can have blue, peach or brown undertones. 

There are two key categories you can choose from when selecting your palette. Cool tones like grey and slate are one option. The second, which will become increasingly popular in 2020, are warm tones like soft browns and creams. Neutrals don’t have to be boring, in fact, when used correctly they can create a truly eye-catching space. 

When you’re working on decorating or revamping a space in your home it can be hard to know where to begin. If you’re looking to dive into a decorating project, it’s best to start by finding a little bit of design inspiration. If you’re searching for inspiration for your next design projects, you might find it in some of the major home design trends we predict for 2020.  

Neutrals

There are many different ways to use neutrals in your home. One that will be popular in 2020 is the all-neutral space. That is to say that everything in the room from the walls, to the furniture, to the accents, will be neutral. The trick to nailing this style is using different shades of neutrals to create contrast. But, to maintain the cohesiveness of the room, make sure all of the shades are complimentary. To do this, select shades that have either all cool undertones or all warm undertones. 

Neutrals can also be used to tone down other bolder features of the room. For example, you might want to paint one wall in your space in a bright color like a robin’s egg blue. With that accent wall as your focus, you can select furniture, carpets and paint colors for the remaining walls that are neutral. This way, the accent wall remains the main focus and the decor in the room doesn’t feel overdone. 

Finally, neutral walls are another great way to incorporate this trend into the design of your room. This is especially useful if you’re not sure how you want to move forward with the rest of the decor. Neutral walls can work with many different styles and colors which will give you time and flexibility to play around with different furniture, rugs, and color palettes for the rest of the room. 

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is a newly popular trend on the scene. This design trend involves incorporating elements of the natural world into the interior of the building. The goal is to help occupants of the space maintain a connection to nature in order to improve health and productivity. 

Although the trend has just become popular it actually dates back to the 1980s. The biologist who coined the term, Edward O. Wilson, hypothesized that humans were suffering as a result of urbanization. He believed we have an innate desire to be connected to natural settings and that incorporating these natural elements into the spaces where we live and work would make us happier, healthier, and more productive. In recent years, this trend has seen a massive rise in popularity. 

If you’re looking to incorporate this trend into your space, there are a few different ways you can go about it. 

The first is through direct experience of nature. This lets the occupants of a space have direct contact with natural elements. Of course, one of the most popular ways to do this is by incorporating plants into your space. A mixture of floor and hanging plants give a room an entirely different feel. A fireplace is another way to bring in natural elements of wood and fire into your living space. Finally, water features can be soothing and relaxing as well. You can even take this feature one step further and incorporate an aquarium into your space with fish and other aquatic animals. 

The second way you can incorporate biophilic design into your space is through the indirect experience of nature. In this case, occupants of a space can have contact with images or representations of nature. These are also believed to have a positive impact on the health, happiness, and productivity of the occupants. There are many examples of how to accomplish this including images of nature, incorporating natural colors, and incorporating natural materials like wood and stone.  

With all of the associated mental health benefits, incorporating these natural materials into your design is often worth the extra cost. 

Bold Wallpaper and Backsplash

Bold wallpaper and backsplashes are other popular trends we expect to see in full force in 2020. This bold and fun style might seem like it is in direct opposition to some of the more subdued trends. However, often the two work very well together. In order to incorporate this bold trend into your room the right way, consider keeping the rest of your design more subdued. For example, decorating your room primarily with simple and clean neutrals and then adding a pop of color through a bright wallpaper or patterned backsplash is a great idea. This allows the bold trend to remain a key focus point in the room without being overpowering or gaudy. 

Mixed Metals

Mixed metals are a great feature to incorporate into any room in your home to give it an industrial and modern feel. From the bathroom to the kitchen, mixed metals work pretty much anywhere. Historically, it’s been seen as a faux pas to mix metals like silver, gold, brass, and iron. However, this interior design rule is now outdated. There are many beautiful ways to mix these metals within a space to create a modern feel. 

If you are going to incorporate this trend into your space, it’s useful to keep a few key rules in mind. Firstly, it’s important to choose a dominant metal. This is the metal that you’ll use in the space more often than not. This way, there is an overall cohesiveness to the room rather than a hodgepodge of different metals. From there, select one or two accent metals that you’ll use to create contrast and points of interest in subtle ways throughout the space.  

Secondly, keep in mind that you really can’t go wrong with the combinations you choose. Most metals mix well together even cold tone metals like silver and warm tone metals like gold and brass. So, have fun with creating these combinations and don’t worry too much about selecting the correct groupings. 

Thirdly, it’s important to consider texture. Once you’ve selected the various metals you would like to use, you’ll need to consider which textures you want to incorporate. Metals can be matte, glossy or even hammered. 

Finally, when in doubt, go with iron. Iron is the neutral of the metal world and works well with many different types of metal and pretty much any color palette you select for your paint, furniture, and accents. By keeping these key considerations in mind, you’ll surely create a modern space that will serve you well for years to come. 

Back in Black

Black is back and it’s being incorporated into interior design in all sorts of new and interesting ways. Black features can transform the look and feel of a room dramatically. While many designers have traditionally shied away from this color, black is actually not that difficult to incorporate into your home. 

This color gives a space an instant sense of sophistication and elegance. Black can be used for walls, appliances, countertops, furniture, and accents. Think about ways to incorporate black into your room that are unexpected. For example, a black sink can create a beautiful contrast to a lighter countertop and kitchen cabinetry. 

You can also think about incorporating black in the same way as we discussed incorporating a bold wallpaper or bright backsplash. That is, make it a statement. 

Again, when using this technique, it can be most effective to use neutrals for the rest of the room. A black statement wall mixed with furniture and accents in neutral tones can make for an elegant, powerful, and eye-catching space. 

If you’re not ready to incorporate black into your space in a bold way, consider adding subtle touches of the color in other ways. For example, you might consider painting your doors or window trims black. This can be especially beautiful and impactful against white walls. The contrast creates an interesting but clean visual effect. 

Finally, you can use black to break up an otherwise bright and white interior. Scandinavian-inspired decor is very popular right now. Don’t believe us? Just check your Pinterest. This design style is simple and monochrome and usually features light colors like whites and bright neutrals. If you like this style but are looking to make it your own consider adding black accent pieces into the space. For example, a chair, a rug, a blanket or a plant pot. This can help you embrace the Scandinavian-inspired design trend while giving it your own unique touch. 

If you’re planning a home renovation it can be difficult to know where to start. We hope these 2020 design trends helped get your creative juices flowing! If you can already picture your dream home, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Let us help you create a space that is as beautiful as it is functional. Contact us today so we can help turn your dreams into a reality.

How to Set a Budget for Your Kitchen Renovation

Creating a kitchen of your dreams may seem impossible. The kitchen is the gathering place of the home and where your family spends a significant amount of time throughout the day. You deserve this space to be beautiful, functional, and perfect. However, a kitchen renovation can be daunting and quite expensive. In Canada, the average kitchen remodel costs approximately $25,000 and if you are considering a luxury kitchen for your home, you could spend up to $50,000 when the final project is complete. 

Creating a budget for the kitchen renovation in your Toronto home can be challenging but it’s necessary. This will help you prepare financially for this change and it will help to reduce some of the included stress. Plus, when spending such a significant amount of money on a kitchen renovation, you won’t strain other aspects of your lifestyle just to pay for this one project. 

Managing your budget and expenses is quite easy if you prepare ahead of time. Here are seven tips to help you set a budget for a kitchen renovation and to stay within it. 

 1. Determine What Projects To Complete

One of the first things you must do is determine exactly what type of work you want complete during your kitchen renovation in Oakville. Sit down and establish a list of both your wants and needs. However, don’t make this a vague list of projects like “update the flooring,” “replace cabinets,” etc. Do some research to truly know what is available and the type of materials you want to use. 

By providing a more detailed list, you will be able to more accurately set your budget. For example, let’s take a look at the floors. If your kitchen flooring needs to be replaced, the type of material you choose can drastically impact your budget. Here are a few flooring options you may consider and their price:

 Vinyl Sheet – $1 to $5 per square foot

Vinyl Tiles – $1 to $4 per square foot

Hardwood Floors – Up to $15 per square foot

Stone Tiles – Up to $20 per square foot 

Additionally, the labor and installation for each type of material will also range in cost as some materials, such as stone tiles, are a lot more challenging and time-consuming to install than vinyl. 

 2. Determine Your Priorities 

Once you have a list of all the tasks you want to complete during your kitchen remodel, separate your list into three or four priority tasks that must be done. The rest of the projects you want to complete can be left out if necessary but would be nice when transforming your living space. Unexpected costs can occur in any type of renovation and to stick within your budget, you need to focus on the tasks that mean the most to you and are of the highest priority. 

 3. Consider Your Future

The future for your family and the home should also impact your kitchen renovation and budget. If you have no plans to move from the home in the near future, you want to consider your needs now and in the future. Will you have space for your family to grow? Will it have all the meal prep and kitchen features that you desire? If this is your long-term residence, you should create a kitchen area that best suits you and your family.

If you don’t expect to live in the home forever and you have plans to move within the next several years, you don’t want to put too much money into the remodeling project. You don’t want to spend more than you will receive when you sell the home. This means you should only focus on those tasks that must be done to create a space that impresses potential buyers and will increase your home’s value. 

 4. Have Some Wiggle Room in Your Budget

 As you look through your finances and determine your budget, you want to be prepared. Ideally, you should set aside 15% to 20% of your budget for unexpected costs that will arise during the kitchen remodel. You never know what could be hiding behind the walls of your home or under the floors. You could find that there are plumbing issues, wiring problems, etc. You may also find challenges such as mold or water damage in this room as well. If you don’t have money set aside to cover the majority of these expenses, you will go over your budget very quickly. 

 5. Determine How You Will Pay for the Project

 Knowing how you will pay for your home remodel in Markham will also make a difference in your budget. If you can afford to pay in cash, this is ideal. You will have the money upfront and you will not have to worry about receiving financing from the bank and working through the application process. However, saving up to complete your kitchen remodel can take several years and will require much self-discipline to ensure you have money needed to complete the project and to do it well.  

 Receiving a loan through a lender is a common way to pay for the remodel. This option allows you to receive the money at a much faster rate than when paying in cash. However, if you choose to take out a loan, there are additional expenses you must prepare to pay. For example, you must add a little extra money into your budget to cover the interest that accumulates on the loan. You will also have processing fees and other lender fees that will add up and eat at your budget if you are not prepared for them. 

 6. Decide What You Will Do During the Remodel

 It is no secret that a kitchen remodel can be inconvenient and stressful for a family. This essential area of your home is out of commission for several weeks. The type of work you wish to complete will greatly affect how long your kitchen remodel will take but you can expect a minimum of six weeks or longer. For kitchen renovations that require extensive work on the plumbing, electricity, etc., it can take several months to complete. 

 During this time, how do you plan to care for your family? Will you remain in the home and live around the mess? Will you live with family members for a few weeks? Stay in a hotel? If you choose to remain at home, how will you eat? Will you go out for the majority of your meals? The increased eating out and additionally housing accommodations of your family can add up quickly. These are additional expenses that you will not want to leave out of your budget or it can put you several hundred or even thousands of dollars behind. 

 7. Talk to a Contractor

Once you have determined the type of work you wish to complete and you know how much you can spend, request bids from several contractors. Talk to these professionals and let them know exactly what you want, the type of materials you desire, etc. Make sure they understand your list of priorities and what you want to accomplish. By gathering bids from multiple contractors, you can not only find a company that will offer you an excellent price, but you will also find a contractor who you trust and who you will enjoy working with for several months. 

To help you transform your kitchen area and create the space you’ve only dreamed of, contact The Renovators of Canada today for a full consultation. You will see how they can work with you to create a gorgeous, functional, and well-designed kitchen space for your entire family. No matter what projects you wish to complete in this area of your home, they have plenty of ideas to truly customize the space and make it your own. 

Home Additions and How They Add Space and Value to Your Home

No matter if you have been living in your home for many years or it is a recent purchase, you want to create an atmosphere that you love and you are proud to call home. There are many ways that you can spruce up and create a gorgeous living environment, and there are also many upgrades you can make that will improve the functionality, look, and design of your property.

But, if you want to make a significant difference, increase the space in your home, and see a drastic increase in your home’s value, a home addition should be at the top of your list. Let’s take a closer look at home additions, their benefits, and several examples of these large renovations.

Why Choose a Home Addition?

It can be a challenge to determine if a home addition is the right project for your property. Before you proceed with the decision, you want to think about it carefully. There are several questions you can ask to help you make a decision that you don’t regret. These include:  

Is a Home Addition the Best Option or Should I Purchase a New Home?
Many homeowners are faced with the dilemma of adding onto their home or to simply put their house on the market and purchase a new property. While both have their advantages, you will want to weigh several key factors before making your choice such as your budget, time, and future plans.

When you choose to complete a home addition, you have the ability to create a space as you want it.

Do You Have a Budget?

The amount of money you spend on a home addition will vary greatly by the size of the project, the contractors that you hire, and more. You can expect to pay on average $200 per square foot on the home addition but you should work closely with a licensed contractor to stick within your budget and to determine the best places to cut costs if needed.  

Will a Home Addition Address My Concerns?

Do you have a growing family and need more space? Or do you want to increase your home’s value? Will a home addition address your concerns or are there other options that will require less time and money? The more research and thought you put into the project, the more satisfied you will be with the final results.

The Benefits of a Home Addition

As you determine if a home addition in your Toronto house is the best option, you must consider the benefits of this project. Let’s discuss a few.
Helps You Create Your Dream Home
As you work with a licensed contractor to renovate your Markham home, you can let your creative juices flow. You can work with these professionals to create a beautiful, trendy, and stylish living space that not only increases your home’s square footage but also improves the aesthetic appeal of the living space.

Many of the best contractors have galleries of past projects that you can browse through to gather ideas and implement small details into your project to create a truly customized and functional area.
Gives You More Room
For many individuals, they consider a home addition because of the increased square footage in the home. Whether you are adding a new room, bathroom, or even a garage, you have more space for your entire family and lifestyle needs.
Increases Your Home Value
One of the greatest benefits of a home addition is how this one project will greatly increase the value of your home. The type of room and the amount of square footage you add will affect your home’s value.

For example, adding a new bathroom to your home will give you the biggest return on your investment — an average of 86%. On average, you can expect that for every 1,000 square feet you add, you can increase your home’s value by up to 30%.  

However, keep in mind that there are several factors that will impact the return you receive and your increase in value. A few of these include:

  • The quality of the home addition. If it is done by professionals, you will receive more than if it is a DIY project.
  • The room must be functional to be beneficial.
  • The flow from the original home to your addition is smooth.
  • You use high-quality materials to complete the addition.

It is best to work with a licensed contractor to complete this project and ensure you have the expertise and the knowledge to complete a beautiful, functional, and usable space.

Home Addition Ideas for Your House

As mentioned previously, one of the advantages to completing a home addition is you have the ability to create a home that you love — that you are proud to call your own. There are also many ways you can transform your indoor living space and ensure you have the space and features that you love. A few home addition ideas for your house include:

A New Bathroom

If you are considering selling your home in the future or your family is growing, a bathroom addition may be ideal. The cost of full bathroom additions will vary depending on the size of your project and the many features and appliances you plan to include. If you want to cut costs, you may consider building a half bathroom with just a sink and toilet. This is also a much faster and more simple project but you still reap many benefits.

Or, if you do not want to complete a full bathroom addition in your home, you can expand a current one to add more space and make the room more functional. Consider implementing more storage space and features such as a walk-in shower or a large vanity.

A Laundry Room
Many homes may have a laundry room in their garage or basement. By building a laundry room on the main floor of your house, you not only increase your home’s value but you make this dreaded chore much more enjoyable. Having a laundry room on the main floor is also a major selling perk if you plan to sell your home in the future. Consider incorporating a mudroom into this area of your home as well for even more appeal.
A Sunroom
A sunroom is an excellent way to bring the outdoors inside. You can add large windows, skylights, and doors to create a bright and beautiful area. Brainstorm ideas with your contractor about how to include various features into this space to turn this room into a beautiful indoor living area.
A Family Room
You may feel like the most visited areas of your home are tight and difficult for your entire family to sit in and enjoy. By adding a large family room, your home not only looks bigger, but it is more comfortable, aesthetically appealing, and livable.
Expand the Kitchen
A large, open kitchen is all the rage and if you are considering selling your home in the future, it will greatly attract potential buyers. Rather than add a new room onto your home, just expand your current one. Add more square footage to allow for more counter space, sitting areas, and more.

If you are considering a home addition in your Canada house, contact a licensed contractor such as The Renovators of Canada.They can help you create the indoor living space that you desperately desire. Whether you are looking to add a new living room or even expand your kitchen, they can help you every step of the way. Plus, you can browse their gallery of past projects to help you generate creative and unique ideas to truly transform and turn your home into your dream living space.

How to Increase the Value of Your Home

If you have plans in the future to sell your home, you will do all you can to make the most money from the deal. You not only want to impress all potential buyers who step foot on your property but you also want to keep the house in tip-top condition so basic repairs and upgrades don’t discourage potential buyers and they lower their offers.

And while there are dozens of projects you can complete around your home, a handful of them will actually increase your home’s value and help you receive more money on the sale of your property. Let’s talk about several things you can do to increase the value of your home.

1. Focus on the Curb Appeal

When selling your home, you want to make an instant impression the minute buyers pull up to your property. You want them to fall in love right away and be anxious to see what the interior of the home has to offer. You do this by improving the curb appeal of the property.

There are many ways that you can improve the home’s curb appeal. Little things like keeping the grass short, planting fresh flowers, and even trimming the trees and bushes will all make a difference in the look of your home. Additionally, take the time for small exterior details such as paint the trim, sweep the balcony, remove all clutter such as yard toys and bikes from the side of the home, etc.

If you truly want to make a difference to the exterior of your home, enhance the front entryway. Sweep the porch, lay down a new welcome mat, and place a planter of fresh flowers near the door. If the door is old and worn down, you may consider replacing or painting it.

In fact, a study by Zillow found that by painting or choosing a black front door, you can improve your home’s value up to $6,271.

2. Transform Your Kitchen Area

No matter if you have plans to sell your home in the near future or you just love to cook and have family around, you want an open, bright, and functional kitchen area. Kitchens that are cramped, have little counter space, and are outdated are going to detract and turn away potential buyers. Plus, if there are a substantial number of upgrades needed in this space, you may receive even less than you desire for your home.

A kitchen remodel in your Toronto home is one of the best things you can do to increase the value of your home. However, it can also be very costly if you are not prepared. A luxury remodel could cost you over $100,000 while a more basic upgrade could cost a few thousand dollars. However, you can work closely with a professional contractor to transform your kitchen area and stay within budget.

One of the benefits of completing a kitchen remodel is you can create the space that you want — the space you want to spend time in each day. Consider replacing items such as cabinets, countertops, flooring, the layout, lighting, and even paint colors. Work with your contractor to create a customized and gorgeous space for your family to gather in each day.

3. Finish a Basement

If you have an unfinished basement in your home, finishing this area should be a priority. Unfinished, this turns into unusable living space, but when completed, it adds significant, usable square footage to a home. Additionally, there are many uses for this area of the home. A few ideas that you can implement include:

  • Home office
  • Large living room
  • Theater room
  • Guest room
  • Apartment for family members or to rent out for additional income
  • Laundry room

4. Add More Square Footage

One way to immediately increase your home’s value is to complete a home addition. You may consider adding a living room, a laundry room, or even just expanding a bathroom or the kitchen area. The project you choose to complete will affect the cost and even the time required to complete it, but it can produce large results. By adding more square footage, you increase the amount of usable space in the home, the property feels and looks larger, and it can improve the home’s traffic flow as well.

Similar to other projects, what you choose to do with this added space and how you complete the project will affect how much your home’s value will increase. For example, adding another bathroom to the home with have a big return on your investment — an average of 86%. Consider why you want to add more square footage to your home and make sure your plans fall within your budget.

5. Update Bathroom Features

The bathroom is one area of the home where potential buyers will pay particular attention. This is because this is a room that is visited multiple times of the day by household members and guests alike. If the bathrooms have features that are outdated such as pink toilets and tubs, it can quickly turn away potential buyers and hurt your chance of a great sale.

While a bathroom remodel in your Markham home may be advisable, simply updating some areas of this room may be more plausible. For example, replacing old and faded vinyl flooring, updating the vanity, and refurbishing the tub and shower area may be what you need to give this room a lift. Even small details such as upgrading light fixtures, swapping out hardware such as faucets and showerheads are all going to make a difference as well.

If your bathroom is small, dark, and has little counter space, it may be worth your time to consider a full bathroom remodel with a contractor. Expanding this area, updating its design, and bringing in more storage options are just a few of the ways that you will totally transform this area and drastically increase your home’s value.

6. Paint!

One of the most simple and effective ways to increase your home’s value is to grab a paintbrush and begin painting. A fresh coat of paint can actually increase your home’s value by several thousands of dollars — if you choose the right colors. Plus, painting is a project that can be done in a weekend, and a few gallons of paint and several painting supplies can be acquired for less than $100.

If you are considering painting your home, a few projects you may consider that will increase your home’s value include:

Kitchen cabinets: By painting two-toned cabinets in your kitchen area, you can see a price increase of up to $1,500.

Bedroom walls: By choosing neutral and light colors for the bedroom, such as a light blue,  you can see an increase of almost $1,800.  

Living rooms: For living rooms, you also want to choose very neutral and light colors. A living room that is painted a light beige or taupe tone can increase your home’s value up to $1,800.

Unfortunately, just like there are many paint colors that can increase your home’s value, there are also many that can lower it and hurt your sale. These include:

  • Brown color on both the interior and exterior of the home. According to Zillow, brown or stucco home exteriors can reduce your home’s sale price by up to $1,900.
  • Red kitchen and dining rooms can also have a negative effect. While you can certainly use red in these areas, you want to make sure that these bold colors are more as an accent color, not the main color in the room.
  • White rooms such as bedrooms, living rooms, and even bathrooms can make you feel calm and peaceful, and that the area is clean, but they can decrease a home’s sale price by more than $4,000.

If you are ready to transform your home and increase your home’s value, contact The Renovators of Canada today. They can help you determine the best projects to create a living space that you can’t wait to come home to every night and potential buyers will immediately love.

Need to Know Before Hiring a Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation Contractor

A major kitchen or bathroom remodeling project in your Toronto home can be a hassle and an inconvenience. Before you hire just anyone to begin the project, you must ask the right questions and learn as much as you can about the company and its workers. Here are 10 questions you should always ask before hiring a renovation contractor in Ontario.

1. Do You Have a License?

One of the most important — and one of the first — questions you should ask a renovation contractor is if the company is licensed and has the required certifications to complete the project in your area. Different regions may have varying licensing requirements so it is critical that the company is licensed and able to work on your home.

2. Are You Insured?

Again, this should be one of the first questions you ask before hiring any company to complete a home renovation. If the answer to this question is no, you will want to quickly walk away. If the company is insured, find out how they are insured. The company should have both workers’ compensation and liability insurance. It is also wise to have the contractor show proof of insurance and not just take their word for it.

3. Can You Provide Me with a Bid?

The price of the project is at the front of every homeowner’s mind. An average kitchen remodel can cost more than $20,000 with a high-end remodel featuring luxury appliances costing more than $50,000. A contractor should provide a bid at the beginning of the renovation process. If possible, ask for an itemized bid. This will give you an idea of how much you are spending on various features and products during the remodel. If you want to save a little money, it also helps you see where these cuts can be made as well.

4. Where Do You Purchase Your Materials?

Many contractors will work with suppliers to purchase their materials. While this is a convenience to them, it can be vital for you. Find out where these materials and supplies are coming from to ensure you are receiving high-quality products. You don’t want to work with contractors who purchase cheap products that lessen the quality of the project.

5. How Long Have You Been in Business?

You want to work with an experienced contractor, particularly on large projects such as bathroom and kitchen renovations. There are many components to these projects and an experienced contractor can help you make the best decision regarding the job and help you create a beautiful living area. In addition, most companies will have photos galleries show-casing past projects. Carefully look through these images to determine the type of quality and creativity the company puts into every project.

Furthermore, when you choose to work with an experienced contractor, you choose a professional who has come across many challenges. You never know what you will find or encounter during a home renovation in Kitchener and these individuals have the training and the experience to handle the situation quickly and without hurting your budget.

6. What is Your Timeline?

The best renovation contractors in Canada will set a timeline and stick to it. A bathroom and kitchen renovation can be major inconveniences in a home and the contractors recognize that. They will do everything they can to complete the project in a fast and efficient manner.

7.  How Do You Protect My Home?

When completing a major bathroom or kitchen renovation, there will be extensive work occurring in the home. Walls may be removed, cupboards torn out, plumbing exposed, etc. There will also be dust and dirt in the home due to the extensive work. You want to know beforehand what the company will do to protect flooring and walls in hallways and nearby rooms. Do they cover these areas? Will you need to remove large furniture items? Additionally, you will have many workers come in and out of your home. If you are away from the house, how will they safeguard your belongings?

8. Will I Need Any Permits and Will You Take Care of that For Me?

Not all home renovation projects require permits, but many do. Talk to the contractor about the need for potential permits and the process to acquire them. Many of the best home renovation contractors in Toronto and area will handle all permits, paperwork, and documentation needed to complete the renovation. This also gives you confidence and assurance that the project is being completed according to the building code and there should be few problems during the final inspection. However, if the contractor says he will handle all the necessary permits, follow up at a later date. You don’t want a missed deadline to cause significant issues.

9. What Are Some Ideas You’d Like to See with My Remodel?

Your contractors are professionals and have likely completed dozens of renovations. Gather ideas from them to create the perfect remodel. These experts may recommend built-in shelves, specific lighting, unique flooring, or other features that you may not have considered. While their style may not fit yours, it can give you some great ideas to create your dream space.

10. Do You Have Any Past Clients I Can Talk to?

If you are going to spend thousands of dollars on a remodel, you want to ensure the quality of the work is exquisite. Speaking with past clients is an excellent way to learn about the contractor, what they do best, where their weaknesses lie, etc. This is also a great way to build confidence in your contractor and know that you made the best decision.

Before you make your final hiring decisions, take the time to talk to the kitchen and bathroom renovation contractors. By asking the above questions and addressing any concerns you may have, you will feel confident in your decision. If you are ready to create a space that you love, contact The Renovators of Canada and schedule your free planning session today!

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.

8 Ways to Use Your Finished Basement

Finishing your basement not only adds value to your home, but it creates functional and additional space. With the right ideas and some professional help, you can create an area that your entire family loves and your guests won’t want to leave. Let’s explore eight ways you can use your finished basement to create the ultimate living area.

1. Home Gym

A home gym is an excellent way to utilize your finished basement, plus it can save a little money each month from pesky gym membership fees. When finishing your basement with a home gym in mind, you must consider the height of the room. You need tall ceilings to ensure many pieces of exercise equipment will easily fit in the room. Plus, if you like to do a lot of cardio and plyometric exercises, you won’t worry about hitting your head on a low ceiling. In addition, you’ll want to carefully think about the flooring in this area. Rubber or foam flooring options may be ideal.

2. Theater Room

A large theater room can be the perfect place to relax after a long day. If you desire a theater room, there are several tasks you’ll want to complete during the renovation process. For example, the wiring in this room will be particularly important as you’ll want to make sure there are connections for a sound system, projector, and other media equipment. You will also want to avoid any windows in this space as it can create a glare on the screen and ruin your viewing experience. However, you should install plenty of lights throughout the room. You’ll need these lights before the movie and if possible, install a dimmer so you can have a little additional light during your show if needed.

3. Guest Suite

https://www.pexels.com/photo/apartment-architecture-bed-bedroom-358527/

A guest room needs to be comfortable, relaxing, and beautiful. During the basement renovation process on your home in Richmond Hill, you can’t focus solely on the look of the room. You need to think about the characteristics of the space that will create the optimal environment. For example, basements can be chilly so it is important that the insulation in the room is done well to keep your guests warm. If you don’t have large windows in the space, make sure to add ample lighting. Also, when designing the room, avoid dark colors in the space. This will make the guest suite appear dark and gloomy.

4. Playroom

If you have young kids, a playroom may become your favorite room in the house. It can help keep toys organized and out of sight, especially when unexpected guests arrive. When designing a playroom during your basement renovation in Burlington, consider various storage options all throughout the space. Built-in cabinets and drawers can be a great way to hide toys and a large closet with deep shelves can be excellent for books, games, and art supplies. Consider adding small cubbies or even a built-in desk for art projects and storing personalized items.

5. Home Office

If you work from home or tend to bring a substantial amount of work home with you each day, a home office is ideal. As you finish this area in your basement, consider the layout of the room. You want plenty of space for a large desk, bookshelves, or file cabinets. If possible, consider a built-in desk and bookshelves for a cohesive and professional look. Additionally, don’t forget about large windows to help you enjoy a little sunlight if you find yourself in your office for hours on end.

6. Game Room

If you have teenagers or love to host parties, a game room can be an excellent way to utilize your basement. You need to create a room that is wide with tall ceilings for various gaming equipment such as pool cues. Also, if you have game nights in mind, you can’t forget about your serving areas. Beautiful built-in bars and counter space are a must for drinks and snacks during your parties. You also don’t want to overlook the various fixtures inside the room such as light fixtures, paint colors, and flooring. You want to create a fun and relaxing environment, yet it must be functional for several people to move around and enjoy themselves as well.

7. Laundry Room

Even if you have a laundry room located on the main floor of your home, a second laundry room can greatly increase your home’s resale value. Plus, by creating a spacious laundry room downstairs, you can create an extraordinary room with ample storage opportunities. When renovating this space, consider large counters and cabinets that border the room. This provides plenty of space for storing extra linens and other miscellaneous household items. Plus, the large counters are ideal for folding or ironing clothes. If room allows, install a sink to help with those soiled clothes and don’t forget about adding plenty of accent light above or beneath the cabinets to make the room bright and inviting.

8. Create a Small Apartment

Finishing your basement so it can be used as a small apartment is an excellent way to bring in a little extra income to your household. It can also be a great place for a family member such as a mother-in-law or a grown-up child can live in. This project will vary drastically depending on your home and its current state. When designing a basement apartment, you must focus on functionality and comfort. You will need to work with a professional contractor who can help you know exactly what you need to ensure the apartment is up to code.

Renovating and finishing the basement in your Markham home can seem like an overwhelming project, but by hiring professional contractors to help you every step of the way, you can create a space that you will want to spend time in, you’ll regularly use, and that will increase your home’s value. If you are ready to finish your basement, contact T-ROC today for a free planning session and get ready to create a space you’ll love to spend time in.

6 Projects that Will Create the Kitchen of Your Dreams

The kitchen is the gathering place of your home. It is where you spend much of your time and where memories are made with the people you love the most. If your kitchen isn’t what you want and you don’t love this area in your home, you can change it. Kitchen remodeling in Oakville can seem extremely daunting but it doesn’t have to be.

While the amount of time, effort, and cost will vary depending on your home and the work that must be done, you can break your kitchen renovation into smaller projects, which makes the remodel much more manageable. Plus, if you work with a professional contracting company, it is less of a hassle for you and professionals are there to answer any of your questions.

Here are six kitchen remodeling projects for your Mississauga home that will help you create the kitchen you’ve always wanted.

1. Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen cabinets are one of the most crucial aspects of your kitchen. If you have too many cabinets, the kitchen can appear small. Yet, if there are too few, you have little storage and counter space. The layout of your kitchen cabinets is something you should take time to consider. You want to make sure you have plenty of open space for family members and friends to gather. You also want counter space for cooking and preparing meals. If you prefer an island, make sure there is enough room in your kitchen and the layout is ideal for this addition.

Furthermore, think about many of the additional features that can enhance the functionality and the design of the kitchen. If you like drawers to store items, make sure your cabinets boast many drawers that are deep and wide. Slow-closing hinges are also a large benefit to prevent slamming cabinet doors and to keep the noise level low in the kitchen. Also, consider the color and material of your cabinets as that will be a main focal point in this area.

2. Lighting

Updating the light fixtures is a small project that can have a huge effect on the room. You can swap out old light fixtures for a new, more updated look. Many light fixtures also have energy-saving features which help cut down your energy costs. If you really want to brighten up this area, think about adding additional lighting such as lights under the cabinets, accent lights, or lights in the pantry.

3. Countertops

The countertops are another feature that can make a dramatic difference in your kitchen. There are numerous styles, colors, and textures that you can choose from such as granite, concrete, quartz, laminate, and more. Each option will have a different price tag and each has its own benefits from durability to longevity. You should work with a professional contracting company to determine exactly what you need for your lifestyle and the many options available for your kitchen remodel in Burlington.

4. Flooring

Updating the floors in your kitchen can be a much larger and more significant task. However, by completing it during your kitchen renovation, you can make this area your favorite part of the house. Additionally, when you work on the flooring, you can evaluate if there is any water damage or other hidden issues that should be immediately addressed. Furthermore, by updating the flooring, you give the kitchen a cleaner, more modern appearance. Dirty grout, cracked tiles, dull floors — whatever the issue may be — is replaced with professionally installed, beautiful floors.

Just like with other features in the kitchen, there are a variety of kitchen floor options available. You can choose between tiles, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and even concrete options. Each type of flooring boasts several benefits including easy maintenance, fast clean-up, stain-resistance, and cost-efficiency. Again, you will want to work with a professional who can help you narrow down your choices and find a flooring option that is ideal for your lifestyle, style choice, and current family situation.

5.  Appliances

Of course, when you update and renovate your kitchen, it is time to get out with the old and in with the new. Choosing the right kitchen appliances for your home is no simple task. However, this one change can quickly give your kitchen an updated look. As you choose your appliances, here are a few tips.

  • Choose a timeless design: You don’t want to go too bold with your dishwasher and have it be an eyesore in a couple of years. Remember that the current trends can easily change tomorrow. You want your kitchen to stay up-to-date and looking its best for as long as possible.
  • Consider size: You don’t want to choose an oven that takes away from all your counter space. While it may look good, think about functionality and convenience.
  • Buy what works best for you: This is your kitchen so you should purchase the appliances that you want. Make sure they have the specifications and the features you need.

6. Seating

Seating is often overlooked during a kitchen remodel. Because the kitchen is a gathering place in your home, you need to make sure there is ample space to gather. If you have a smaller kitchen, you may need to sacrifice furniture or cabinets to provide proper seating in this living space. If you are redoing your cabinets and countertops, you may consider a bar area that would provide additional seating in the heart of your kitchen. Or, create a corner nook with built-in table and chairs — a perfect area for young children. There are many possibilities when increasing the seating in an area, but some thought and a few sacrifices may be necessary.

A variety of kitchen remodeling projects can help create the living space you’ve always wanted. Even better, you can receive a large return on your renovation. On average, you can receive approximately an 82% return on a minor kitchen renovation. A kitchen renovation may be inconvenient but when working with a professional contract company, you’ll have a kitchen you love and a home that makes an impression.

Tips That Can Make Selling Your House Easier

Are you planning to renovate your home so you can get the highest possible sale price? If you are, then follow these easy cleaning, maintenance, and renovation tips on how to get the most for your sale.

Maintenance

Take the time to go over your every detail of your entire house.  It would be worth it to hire a home inspector prior to listing your house so that you can find out any possible deficiencies before potentials buyers walk through your front door.  If you are not planning to hire a home inspector prior to listing then take the time to really go through your home with a critical eye.  Some things to look for include torn or damaged window screens, moldy or missing caulking (inside and outside), rotting siding, decks, or handrails, worn out or missing weather stripping around windows and doors, ensuring all of your exterior and interior door handles are operational (be sure that they latch and that the locks work) uneven patio stones, cleaning any exterior gutters of leaves or debris, checking to ensure the slope of the flower beds or yard is away from your house, completing the annual furnace and air conditioner maintenance…  These are simple steps that take a little time, but wont cost you a lot of money.

Clean Your House and do What You Can to Make it Brighter

Nobody wants a gloomy house. To make your house more attractive to buyers, go through this simple exercise;  pretend you are coming to look at your house for the first time.  Stand on the street and walk up your driveway or front sidewalk.  What do you see?  Does your house look clean, bright and inviting?  Are the shrubs overgrown? are the windows clean? Once you get to the front door take a look at the door handle, is it rusty or worn?  Is the door or the key hole scratched?  Now you are inside, what do you see?  Is your entry bright?  This is what your potential new buyers will see within the first 30 seconds of coming to view your property.  You can make it or break it in these first 30 seconds.

Be sure to clean the walls, floors, and ceilings (you don’t want any cobwebs). Remove drapes, curtains (or replace them with thinner ones), and open your windows. Replace your old light bulbs with new or more powerful ones. How does your house smell when you walk in – old, dank, and musty?  Use an air freshener so that when potential buyers come into your home for the first time they aren’t taken aback by pet odours, or dirty shoes in the closet.

Updates and Renovations

The main selling features of your house are the kitchen and the washrooms, plus the flooring and the condition of the walls.

Painting

The first step is to paint the main areas, over time we all nick and bang the walls leaving marks and scrapes, especially by the front entrance.  Be sure to patch, prime and paint the the well used areas – hallways, doors and trims.  Doing a simple refresh will create an inviting environment for the new purchasers.

Flooring

Flooring an be an expensive venture. Depending on the size of your home it and when it was built will make a huge difference.  We find that new home buyers will want to put their own stamp on the home anyway, so I wouldn’t break the bank here.  However, take a look at your carpets and hardwood.  Are they scratched, stained, or worn through?  Hire a professional carpet cleaning company to bring some life back into your carpet, or a hardwood company to repair any scratches or worn areas on your hardwood floor.  Be sure all the grout lines in your tile are clean and replace any grout that is cracked or missing.

Bathrooms

You can easily refresh the look of your washroom without spending a lot of money.  A simple refresh like re-grouting and caulking of the showers and tile walls and floors.  Replace your washroom vanity, sink and faucet can be completed in a day and having your tub refinished will bring an old tired bathroom back to life.  Of course you can completely renovate your washrooms, but be sure to budget $10,000 to $12,000.

Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart of the home, this is where prospective buyers will go first.  There are some simple and cost effective things you can do to update your kitchen.  Take a look at your cabinets – are they worn, are the doors straight, do the doors open and close properly?  If you don’t have enough time or the budget to renovate from scratch you can (depending on the type of cabinets) have them painted, or re-stained.  When re-staining wood cabinets use the same colour and a product which has the varathane and stain in one application.  If your kitchen cabinets are in good shape, then consider updating the backsplash with a new tile, or replacing the counter top, sink and faucet.  The simple task of replacing all of the handles and knobs can really add a quick and dramatic improvement.

If you do have the budget and the time, renovating your kitchen and washrooms tend to add the most value to your home and help to create the quickest sale.  If you do chose to fully renovate your kitchens and washroom, be sure to plan far in advance.  Ordering cabinets, making selections and having a kitchen renovation completed can take 2-3 months, a washroom renovation is generally 2 weeks once the work has actually begun.

Renovating your home for sale can put some extra cash in your pocket.  Don’t miss out.

Shake Things up in the Kitchen!

Lifestyle Change Needed!

Renovating your kitchen will add ease to your lifestyle and value to your home. These next points will help you make the correct decisions for your kitchen renovation! So get excited and get inspired!

Quality is the Answer

Always choose top-quality drawers and hinges, otherwise your cabinet doors may not close properly and they will wear quite quickly. For the interior of all cabinets, you should always use wood veneer. A wood veneer interior is significantly more durable than melamine, laminate or particleboard.

Storage Galore!

Always maximize your storage. Extend your cabinets up to your ceiling, to increase the amount of storage in your kitchen. Although, if your ceilings are higher than eight feet, you should leave approximately 15 inches of space between the top of your cabinets and the ceiling. Leaving this amount of space ensures that you will be able to reach the top shelf of all your cabinets. So for anyone who couldn’t reach the top shelf, where the cookies were hidden, now you will be able to!

Paint, Splash, & Have Fun!

I recommend brush-painted cabinets, because they tend to last longer and give your kitchen a more unique personality. It also gives you the opportunity to show your personality through your kitchen cabinets. Let your personality shine through your kitchen!

Life on an Island…

Make an effort to choose an island that has an open and airy look. This does not mean keeping the island to smaller dimensions, but simply understanding that a kitchen can become quite busy. Understanding this concept, means that you should consider how many people tend to be in your kitchen at the same time. Based on your estimate, you can determine whether you should be installing a smaller or larger island. If you have many family members. then it is best to create extra space in the kitchen; by either choosing a smaller island, or throwing out half your family!

Written By: Jake Fortinsky

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