Filed under: RENOVATIONS
Jonathan and Drew Scott of the hit show Property Brothers offer tips and tricks when making the move from the ‘burbs to the big city.
Tim and Michelle had grown up in the ‘burbs. They were used to large lots with big homes and had no idea what was waiting for them in the big city. Tim had no interest in getting a small house in the city and Michelle was set on having all the high-end finishes she has seen in design magazines. This was definitely a tough project for Property Brothers. But, in the end, we were able to find them a house with great potential, and turned it into a home they would be happy to call their own.
Here are our 10 tips when moving into the city.
1 Let’s get physical and emotional
Buying a home is both a physical and emotional task, especially if you’re making the big move into the city where houses typically cost more per square foot. You shouldn’t feel you’re getting less bang for your buck, though, and we always encourage buyers to think of the positives on Property Brothers. The commuting time you save by living downtown can be spent with family, getting ahead at the office or simply enjoying life.
2 Know the neighbours
If you like quiet living out in the suburbs, you don’t have to lose this when moving to an urban area. Every city has a variety of communities, so whether it’s a quiet, established area or a bustling business district, you’ll be sure to find something you like. Spend time driving through the different neighbourhoods, talk with locals and familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
3 Expect the unexpected
Downtown houses tend to be older than those found in the suburbs, so do your research and read up on what to look for. Prime examples would be knob and tube wiring, foundation issues or asbestos. This is why it’s important to work with professionals who know the local market. Whether it’s a realtor, contractor or inspector, they’ll make your life easier by ensuring you don’t buy a money pit.
4 You may be out of your parents’ place but house rules still apply
Many properties in a city are governed by a home owner’s association (condos and single-family communities can have this). If you are new to this style of living, it’s important to realize that it comes with many regulations and restrictions. For example, you may need permission from the board to renovate your space, or to use certain types of materials on your exterior. Some condo complexes have pet restrictions, and may even limit what furnishing you can place on your balcony. As well, there are additional fees that usually cover maintenance, amenities and sometimes utilities. Don’t be discouraged, though. These regulations are in place to ensure quality of living and to help maintain the appeal of the complex. Just be sure to educate yourself fully on the community before buying.
5 Pets in the city
Aside from condo restrictions, you also need to consider other pet-friendly aspects of the neighbourhood. If you have a large dog that needs lots of room to run, be sure you have a dog-friendly park close by. Also, keep in mind that the city has more traffic than the suburbs and therefore can be very dangerous if your pet wanders off. Ensure it has its ID tags on at all times.
6 So close, yet only a little further away
Just because you are moving to the city doesn’t mean you have to live right in the downtown core. By simply looking for a house a few blocks away, you may be able to save thousands, get more square footage and still have all the conveniences of downtown amenities.
7 Traffic vs transit
Prepare yourself for more traffic in the city. This is why we always recommend buying a home close to public transit, as it gives you one extra tool against traffic delays. This will also give the home resale value since the majority of people in a city like the convenience of not having the expenses of owning a vehicle. If you think about it, a 30-minute drive in rush hour could be reduced to a 10-minute commute via transit.
8 To park or not to park, that is the question
You may be used to free street parking, long driveways and three-car garages, but it’s a different story in the city. Parking comes at a premium. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of paying to own your parking versus relying on rental or street usage. If you find that public transit is your primary mode of travel, then you may be able to save even more by getting rid of your car. There are also ‘per use’ vehicle services in most major cities, with auto share vehicles that can be handy if you require only occasional wheels.
9 The sounds of downtown
The city comes with added noise. Is your house under a flight path? Are you backed onto the rail line or near a nightclub? These are major concerns for many when buying in the city. Drive through your potential community at different times of day to see if there are any surprises. Also keep in mind that the city has tighter noise restrictions for you, too. So, the late night karaoke parties you do every Friday may need to wrap up early.
10 Take your pick
It can cost more if a contractor needs to travel to the ‘burbs for a job. In the city, you have more contractors and therefore more competitive pricing (still, check them out thoroughly). This is the same for vendor pricing. With big box stores, specialty shops – and everything in between – you will have a greater selection of products at very competitive prices.
Watch the Property Brothers Thursdays at 9p.m. on the W Network.
Drew and Jonathan Scott Property brothers
Real estate agent Drew Scott and his twin brother, contractor Jonathan Scott, are experts who help couples find, buy and transform extreme fixer-uppers into the ultimate dream home. wnetwork.com/propertybrothers
January 5, 2012
When I first started working in this industry, Greening your home meant little more than setting back your thermostat at night and turning off the lights when you left the room. Today, as we enter the second decade of the new millennium, Green is cool again and with the technological advancements that were made over the years, Green products have become more affordable, available and attractive for any homeowner.
Some people believe that they have to buy a new home in order to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, and that’s certainly a great solution, but it’s not the only way. Green renovations are becoming increasingly popular with time, as homeowners realize that the positive impact goes beyond the environment – it can help add some stock to your pocketbook as well.
Green upgrades have proven to pay for themselves over the years as they reduce your monthly operating costs while providing you with a comfortable, healthy living space. These monthly savings generate further return on your investment when you decide to sell.
If you’ve decided to Green up your home, the best place to start is with an energy assessment from a licensed energy advisor. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, the assessment can potentially knock off thousands of dollars from the cost of your renovation through rebates by either the federal, provincial or municipal government, depending on where in the country you live.
These financial incentives vary from province to province but at the end of the day, the government is supporting you for taking the initiative to Green up your home, so you might as well embrace it.
Use a pro
Those who follow my columns already know that I’m a huge supporter of using professional contractors to carry out most major renovations, and that goes double for Green renos.
There are literally hundreds of products currently on the market that claim to be “Green,” but only a true professional – someone who researches, buys and works with these products on a daily basis – can distinguish the real thing from something with a fancy name and packaging.
Professional renovators know how to put it all together, how to match old and new, and how to integrate ground-breaking Green technology with the existing structure of your home. Take advantage of their expertise to make sure you get the most out of your home. Those beautiful new windows might be energy efficient, but they need a proper installation to put them to work.
A good place to look for a professional renovator is RenoMark.ca – home to the national RenoMark program, which is administered by 32 (and growing) Home Builders’ Associations (HBAs) in eight provinces.
The RenoMark membership consists of professionals, renovators and custom home builders who have agreed to follow the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s Code of Ethics and the renovation-specific RenoMark Code of Conduct, focusing on things such as providing written contracts, warranties and liability insurance. The website also features a trade-specific search feature, allowing homeowners to quickly and efficiently locate a specific renovator in their province or city.
Finding a renovator is no small task, so be sure to ask plenty of questions to make sure your contractor is an expert in Green renovations. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or examples of previous work.
Good luck!
Stephen Dupuis is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD). He can be reached at
president@bildgta.ca You can read more from Stephen and RenoMark on Twitter by visiting twitter.com/renomark_ca, or Facebook by visiting facebook.com/renomark renomark.ca
April 20, 2011
Lydia McNutt chats with Peter Khatami, co-owner of Nostco Construction, to get the lowdown on eco-friendly renovations, how they’re done and when you need to surrender your tools to the pros.
Q. What are the top three ways to incorporate energy efficiency into your home renovation?
A. Use energy-efficient appliances and products. Energy Star is a government-backed symbol for energy efficiency that was established
to make it easy for consumers to identify and purchase energy-efficient products that offer savings on energy bills. Everything from plumbing, roofing, lighting, heating and cooling, insulating, appliances and even electronics could bear the symbol. So look for the logo on your next purchase.
Insulate. Most homes are under-insulated and all too often homeowners overlook the importance of this vital component in the energy efficiency of their home.
Seal all the gaps that are causing air leaks from your home. This could be as simple as applying caulking around windows and doors.
Q. Water- and energy-saving appliances and features for the home are more expensive, but do they pay off in the long run?
A. Removing the “eco-friendly” side of the argument from the equation, consider that almost every product in your house has two prices. The first being the purchase price and the second being the maintenance/operating cost. Energy-efficient products can dramatically reduce your utility costs and last longer than “conventional” alternatives. Energy Star products have been evaluated to ensure that their initial additional purchase price is offset by the energy savings of using that product over a relatively short amount of time.
Q. Do you have a lot of clients asking for eco-friendly features?
A. As much as I would love to say “yes,” the unfortunate truth is that the clients who do are few and far between. I suspect that a lack of consumer awareness about the different products available to us is the main cause.
Q. Are there environmentally friendly ways to take care of reno waste?
A. Absolutely, and since diverting products away from the landfill is the name of the game, consider donating to charity, selling or giving away as many of your appliances/furnishings as you can for starters. Next, separate your cardboard. You might be surprised but cardboard probably represents 10 per cent of all the waste from a conventional reno. You can also recycle your plastics and even sell some of your metal scraps. These are all relatively simple and easy measures that we can all take to do our part.
Peter is co-owner of Nostco Construction, a design/build, project management and contracting firm serving residential and commercial clients throughout the GTA. With more than 10 years of industry experience, Peter prides himself in working tirelessly on behalf of his clients to transform vision to successful reality on every project. nostco.com
April 18, 2011
By Stephen Dupuis
I’ll be honest, when the RenoMark program was started in Toronto back in 2001, I hoped but never dreamed it would expand to a national level. Ten years later, RenoMark has virtually swept that nation thanks to the support of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association and the provincial and local Associations that make up CHBA.
In mid-February, I received the exciting news that the Halifax-based Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Central Nova Scotia has voted to climb aboard the RenoMark train, bringing RenoMark program participation up to 32 local Home Builders’ Associations (HBAs) in eight provinces (PEI currently under the New Brunswick umbrella).
This particular local, lead by CEO Paul Pettipas, has a very high-profile Renovators Council already, and I’m delighted that they see RenoMark as a way to enhance their local brand!
If you’re unfamiliar with RenoMark, it is a program originally launched by the Greater Toronto Home Builders’ Association (now BILD) as a result of renovation horror stories caused by rogue contractors, which were resulting in our professional contractors being tarred by the same brush.
The program was designed to re-establish homeowners’ confidence in the renovation industry by inviting professional renovators to come together under the RenoMark brand and establish a positive reputation for the program through quality work
and customer service.
All RenoMark contractors have agreed to follow the CHBA Code of Ethics and the renovation-specific RenoMark Code of Conduct, found at the program’s online hub – RenoMark.ca The website invites homeowners to find a professional RenoMark renovator in their area by using a trade-specific search feature, as well as to download the RenoGuide – a free guide outlining the five essential steps to a professional renovation.
Each HBA also offers site visitors updates on the latest developments in the renovation industry in their region, including news, award-winning members and Home Show information. Just visit RenoMark.ca, select your location and see for yourself!
Now here’s the really exciting part – I’ve always been a firm believer in embracing all the latest technical advances to ensure that our members and homeowners get the most out of our services. This is exactly why RenoMark is now plugged into the social media world with its very own Facebook page and Twitter account!
If you’re like me, you want to stay up to date with all the latest news before your friends and colleagues read about it in the morning paper. Now you can do that with up-to-the-minute updates from our Twitter feed at twitter.com/RenoMark_ca
The RenoMark Facebook page kicks things up a notch with homeowners encouraged to talk to renovators and participate in group discussions with people who have worked with RenoMark contractors in the past. Just search for “RenoMark” on Facebook and hit the “Like” button. It’s like attending a group meeting but from the comfort of your own home and, if you choose to do so, in your pyjamas!
I think I speak for all the local HBAs when I say that we’d love to hear what you have to say about RenoMark and your experiences with our professional renovators and custom builders. Thanks to social media, it is now just a few simple clicks and keystrokes away!
Stephen Dupuis is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD). He can be reached at
president@bildgta.ca
March 16, 2011
HD&R talk TV, renovations and working together with twin brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott of Property Brothers.
By Sara Duck
Property Brothers (produced by Cineflex in association with W Network) is a show that follows real estate agent Drew Scott and his twin brother, contractor Jonathan Scott, as they help couples find, buy and transform extreme fixer-uppers into the ultimate dream home. With the help of CGI technology, the brothers are able to show buyers the underlying potential in rundown properties. With a background in entertainment, these brothers bring a fine balance of fun and strong talent to the show, which make it incredibly amusing to watch. Recently we sat down with the brothers to find out more.
HD&R: You both bring an interesting dynamic to the show; did you always know you wanted to work together?
DREW: We have always worked together. It’s actually quite odd, I know when most people spend this much time together they really get on each other’s nerves. We don’t. I think it helps that we’re very outspoken – if something is bugging us we just say it and deal with it, then move on.
JONATHAN: We rarely argue on a project because as soon as the work starts, Drew disappears! Honestly, it’s nice working with somebody who understands exactly what I can do and has the same level of creativity to see the potential in a property. The brotherly competition still exists and adds a little humour to the show.
HD&R: Describe working closely with your twin brother?
D: It’s great. Jonathan is as driven and motivated as I am. We have the same lofty aspirations and goals. So being able to have someone with the same interests and that you know you can rely on is invaluable. It’s like I’ve cloned myself and now have the ability to cram twice as much work into each day.
J: We actually do know what the other is thinking a lot of the time and that makes decision making a lot quicker and easier. Granted, I was born first and everybody knows nothing is as good as the original, but Drew gets by.
HD&R: What has been the biggest challenge working on a TV series?
D: You would think it would be balancing our day-to-day operations with our real estate company. Spending so much time on the series doesn’t leave a lot for other endeavours; however, Jonathan and I are extremely organized and have great time management. This allows us to take on a lot without burning out. We also have a strong network of people behind us to ensure our clients are taken care of and our company can function at the high level of excellence that we expect.
J: On Property Brothers, I’d say the biggest challenge is convincing homeowners that we can actually make a dilapidated home look as good as we say we can. No matter how long we do this and no matter how many success stories we’ve had, homeowners are still skeptical. Some homeowners think we’re just hosts and don’t have the knowledge and real estate experience to achieve the dream makeovers. But, in the end I love it when I see those jaws drop.
HD&R: Take us through the process of how you make a client’s dream a reality?
D: It actually starts off with a little shock factor. Most of the homeowners are dreaming with what they think they can get on their budget. So I take them through a beautiful, spacious, luxury home that is move-in ready. It’s way out of their budget but has everything they want. Yet they actually think they can afford it. Once I drop the list price on them they are devastated. There is method to my madness; I believe you need to break them down before you can build them back up. They’ve lived too long in a fantasy and this is the best way to pull them back into reality. At this point we take them through extreme fixer uppers that they can afford, and then show them what we can do to turn it into their dream home.
J: This is the point where I generally take over. Ninety-nine per cent of our couples do not see any potential in these run down nightmares. The funny thing is, we’ve all heard the saying, “Location, location, location.” Get the ugliest house on the nicest street, that’s what we aim for. I’m going to build equity into these homes for the family and transform it into the nicest place on the block. The only way I seem to be able to convince buyers of my ideas, is by using the amazing 3D imaging software that we designed with Neezo Renders specifically for the show. You won’t find this software in any other residential application; however, it makes the difference in painting that picture for the clients. When clients go into our design presentation we use the 3D imaging to help them choose one of two properties to write an offer on; they generally feel both contenders are a waste of time – but when they leave after seeing our designs, they can’t decide which one they want to buy. The software is that good!
HD&R: Do you have a favourite project? Why?
D: I love the extremes. When people walk into a house they think has no potential and we say, “Well hold on, check this out!” I also love seeing the transformation of a master suite. In one of the episodes, the buyers had a cramped master bedroom with a tiny closet and no ensuite bathroom. The reason they decided to go with the space was because of our 3D visual: it showed them they could take the fourth bedroom, which was small and useless, and turn it into a beautiful walk-through closet and ensuite. In the end it was a spa-like master suite that they’d never want to leave.
J: I love custom, which is the biggest benefit of doing your own reno. We had a couple on the show and the husband was really tall. He was always hitting his head on things, found shelving shallow or short and all around just not functional for a big guy. Well, I’m over 6’ 4” so I felt his pain. I built him this unbelievable walk-in closet and ensuite with nine-ft. doors, extended shelves and a vaulted ceiling with a rain drop showerhead. He loved it and I was a little jealous!
HD&R: What misconceptions do people have about doing a reno?
D: A lot of people think that no matter how hard they try they could never make an older home look as good as a new build. This is just simply not true. It just depends on your budget and how much work you want to do yourself. To get a solid finished project though, there are several areas that you should use a professional. For example, if you have never done drywall mudding, bring in a pro. It may seem expensive at first but when you calculate the value of your time and the value of a properly finished project, the skilled trade is worth it. Also, if you are thinking of resale value, you want to ensure everything is done right and looks professionally finished.
J: A lot of people think it’s cheaper and all-around easier not to get permits. This is not the case. In fact, when you resell a home these days and do not disclose renovations without permits, it can be considered a latent defect and you can make yourself liable. The city is generally great to work with, they just want to make sure updates are done to code. As a homeowner, I’d be very concerned if your contractor suggests you don’t get a permit. This process is there for a reason.
HD&R: What advice can you offer to someone who is embarking on a reno?
D: Get organized before you start. Have your plans sketched, a checklist written and set a budget. Also think of resale value. You may love a shower instead of a bathtub but if you renovate and don’t leave at least one bathtub in the house, then you are greatly reducing the resale value in the sense that most families would want a house with a tub for kids. Look at your renovations and think of what the average person would think when walking through the house. It’s better to convert a cramped four bedroom/one bathroom home into a spacious three bedroom/two bathroom house, instead of just updating the original floor plan. More bedrooms are not always better. Be sure to figure out which of your “wishlist” items are things you must have and which are things you can live without. Usually buying a less expensive house that needs work will give you more flexibility to transform the property into the home of your dreams.
J: Value your own time. Renovations can be very stressful on a family and can drag on for years. Take on some of the projects yourself but hire a professional contractor to do any major jobs. Also, be realistic with your needs and wants. Can you afford to do everything right now? Maybe concentrate on the main floor if your budget is tight and do the basement down the road when you have a little extra cash.
HD&R: What do you think the difference is between a house and a home?
D: This is something we hear from buyers all the time. A house is simply walls, roof and some flooring. But a home is somewhere they can actually see their family living. I’ve never heard someone say, “This feels like house.”
J: Perhaps it isn’t something you can express through words. None of our families have ever walked into a house prior to our renovation and shown any kind of emotion. However, when our renovation is complete and we reveal the finished product, many couples cannot hold back the tears and the joy. That’s when I know, I’ve turned it into a home.
March 1, 2011
One of the major reasons for disputes over renovation work is the lack of a contract. The best way to avoid disputes is to draw up an agreement describing the work to be done and the cost of this work. This contract becomes a legal document, binding both parties once they have signed it.
If you are not sure of something in the contract, ask for an explanation. If you’re still in doubt, take it to a lawyer. Both you and the renovator should sign two copies of the contract, one for you and one for the renovator. Some contractors may offer a discount for payment in cash with no written contract. Don’t be tempted. “Underground economy” transactions are risky, and the pitfalls can easily offset any promised savings.
According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., the contract should include:
» the correct and complete address of the property where the work will be done;
» your name and address;
» the renovator’s name, address and telephone number;
» a detailed description of the project, plus sketches and a list of materials to be used;
» the type of work that will be subcontracted;
» the right to retain a construction lien holdback as specified under provincial law;
» a clause stating that work will conform to the requirements of all applicable codes;
» start and completion dates;
» an agreement stating whether it is the homeowner or the renovator who is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits, licenses and certificates;
» the requirement that the renovator be responsible for removing all debris as soon as construction is completed;
» a statement of all warranties, explaining exactly what is covered and for how long;
» a statement of the renovator’s public liability and property damage insurance;
» price and terms of payment.
For more information or for a complete list of CMHC publications, programs and videos on renovation, call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642 or visit CMHC’s website at cmhc.ca
February 15, 2011
By Glen Peloso
When it comes to renovation, the most important thing to do is plan. Whether you hire a designer to help with the plan or you’re going to work on your own, when the planning part is left out, it can spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R for both your renovation and pocketbook.
The first step is to decide the purpose of the renovation. Are you simply trying to update the look of that space, are you trying to create a more functional space, or do you want to change the function of the space all together?
Start by drawing out the space you have on a sheet of graph paper where one square on paper is going to represent six inches in your space. Then decide where you are going to place the major pieces in the room to function the way you want them to. Consider doorways, windows, plumbing and drains, and lighting requirements
as you draw up the new floor plan.
Next, create a realistic budget. Do some research online to make sure that you are being reasonable – a kitchen renovation of $8,000 is likely not going to get you what you want if you’re planning on changing cabinets and appliances! The budget will help enormously while you are shopping for materials. In most renovations, there are many, many elements and when you start to overspend by even $100 per item, your over-budget total can be several thousands of dollars.
In your budget, leave a little cushion for what I like to call the “oh crap” list. These are the things you won’t know about until the walls are down and the renovation has begun. Finding out your subfloor is rotted or your pipes are still the original lead from 1910 can add costs to the project and once you’re in the middle
of it all, it’s too late to turn back. Having a bit of cash in reserve (such as 10 to 15 per cent of the budget) is just good planning.
Once you have a plan, including all the materials you want
to use and making sure they will work with your budget, get a contractor involved with the project. Ask for references and actually call the people on their list. Get a few contractors to give a quote on the work and let them see your plan and list of materials so you can compare the quotes. Be clear about what products you will bring and what they are responsible for. Get the quote in writing. When you make changes along the way, find out how they will affect the cost and create some paperwork to account for the changes (this is where the “oh crap” budget comes in handy).
Finally, create a realistic time frame for the project to be completed with your contractor that you can both agree on, with the understanding that the “oh crap” list
can add to the time required.
The whole renovation process can be a bit like what I understand child birth to be – an incredible amount of pain while it is happening but an endless source of joy when it
is all complete. Keeping a good focus on the end result will help you through the painful bits and then you can move on to enjoying the new space!
Plan, plan, plan!
• Use a design firm to lessen the burden
of work and renovation
• Create a realistic budget before you shop
• Stick to the budget
• Add 10 to 15 per cent to budget to hold
in reserve for the “unforeseen”
• Get a few contractors’ quotes
• Call contractors’ references
• Be sure of stock and availability
of your materials before you start
• Plan for a mess and a somewhat
non-functional home for a while
• Enjoy the new space and the finished result!
Glen Peloso, design editor at Home Décor and Renovations and principal designer of Glen Peloso Interiors, has been designing spaces for commercial, corporate and residential clients for more than 15 years. You’ll recognize Glen as the host of such television design shows as Restaurant Makeover, Take This House & Sell It and Renovate My Wardrobe, to name a few, as well as from speaking engagements at home shows across Canada. Visit glenpelosointeriors.com
February 11, 2011
In many homes, the basement represents great, untapped potential for more living space. It may offer a cost-effective alternative to adding a new family room, an extra bedroom or a home office. With careful planning and the assistance of a professional renovator, most basements can be turned into attractive, comfortable living space.
Energy efficiency and comfort Renovating your basement offers a great opportunity to increase the energy efficiency of your home. An experienced renovator will inspect your basement and make appropriate recommendations for insulation, caulking and air sealing that can make your entire home more comfortable.
Light Consult with your renovator on ways to brighten up your basement. Often you can enlarge existing windows or add
new ones, depending on the above-ground height of the foundation, what’s around the house and the intended use of the new space. Or the renovator may recommend glass blocks – you get the extra light while preserving privacy. Keep in mind that if you are building a bedroom in the basement, The Building Code specifies a minimum window size for safety reasons.
Special construction considerations Some basements may pose special challenges, such as supporting posts in the middle of an open area, or floors that are too low for proper connection of bathroom fixtures to municipal sewer line. It may be necessary to break open the concrete floor to get at the plumbing, for instance. An experienced renovator can identify these challenges and provide solutions to overcome them.
Heating In undeveloped basements, the heat is often supplied by registers set in the ductwork running along the basement ceiling. Your renovator may recommend relocating the heat outlets and adding a cold-air return. This will create the air circulation needed for even heat distribution and a much more pleasant living environment.
Air quality You need to pay particular attention to moisture and air quality in the basement. Moisture problems should be addressed before going ahead with the renovation work. Your renovator may suggest exterior drainage work or re-parging the outside of the foundation wall to keep water from entering the basement. If mould is present, it can be eliminated by washing the area with a bleach solution.
Proper ventilation will improve indoor air quality Your renovator may recommend a separate exhaust fan or a heat recovery ventilator (a whole house “fresh air” system). Equipment in the basement such as the furnace and dryer should be vented directly to the outside and may require a separate air intake. In some areas, a dehumidifier may be required during summer months.
Sound-proofing Planning a family entertainment centre and a bedroom in the basement? Sound-proofing will minimize the noise travelling from one area to another. Your renovator may also recommend the installation of an intercom system connected to the upstairs for easy communication between levels.
There are lots of good ideas and products available that will add extra comfort and value to your basement renovation. Here are just a few suggestions from experienced renovators to get you started:
- Make sure you set aside enough room for storage space somewhere in the basement. Have the renovator build a simple floor-to-ceiling shelving system in the storage area to maximize space.
- Update your laundry room at the same time, with cabinets or shelving and a counter.
- Consider installing at least a two-piece bathroom. You’ll enjoy the convenience!
- Rough in all the connections now for later installations, such as a fireplace.
- Install the wiring now for any anticipated future needs, i.e. cable TV, home office equipment, alarm system and dedicated telephone lines.
Make sure you have all the information and advice you need. Do it right – work with a professional renovator!
Courtesy of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association
January 19, 2011
Autumn is prime time to inspect your home and make sure it will effectively withstand the cold this coming winter. While this inspection requires very little from the homeowner, this quick checklist can potentially save you money and headaches in the long run. Inspecting both the interior and exterior of your home helps to prevent costly breakdowns around the house that are usually caused by freezing temperatures, strong winds, snow and ice. By paying special attention to the insulation and the heating system, you can also eliminate heat loss and cut your energy bills.
“Preparing your home for winter is one of the most important maintenance activities of the year. With very simple inspections that can be achieved in a short period of time, homeowners can considerably increase the comfort of their home, while also protecting and preserving their investment. This will provide them with peace of mind all winter long and will help them avoid unpleasant surprises when spring arrives,” says Elizabeth Martin, a project guide at Rona Home & Garden.
Follow these tips to help your home weather the winter.
Roof, chimney and gutters
• Check the roof and replace damaged shingles. Make
sure roof shingles are solidly attached.
• Clean the chimney thoroughly, because soot that accumulates inside it can be a fire hazard. Make sure there’s no bird or squirrel nest in your chimney. The chimney should be swept at least once and up to three times a year, depending on how frequently the fireplace is used.
• Ensure gutters are in good condition and solidly nailed
to the building. Run water in gutters using a garden
hose and look for leaks, while making sure the downspouts drain properly. Remove any leaves accumulated in gutters. Otherwise, water and debris left in the pipes will freeze when the temperature drops, potentially cracking the gutters.
Filling the cracks
• Walk around your home and make sure the exterior siding is in good condition and solidly attached to the building. If you notice cracks in the concrete, caulk them to prevent damage that could result when
water freezes. Look for cracks inside your basement walls and in the concrete slab.
• Seal the driveway with a product specially designed for this purpose. If there are cracks in the asphalt, repair them immediately or they will expand when the ground freezes.
Exterior accessories
• Drain garden hoses and store these inside your garage or in a shed. To prevent costly pipe breakdowns, shut off all your outdoor faucets.
• Before putting the lawn mower away, give it a good cleaning and empty the gas tank into an appropriate container.
• Inspect your snowblower. Make sure it starts easily and change the spark plug and gas filter if necessary.
Ventilation and insulation
• Remove dust from inside the air exchanger. Make sure motor, heating elements and the fan (by turning it manually) work properly. Take the time to clean air ducts and ensure they’re not obstructed.
• Pay special attention to doors and windows – they’re the biggest culprits when it comes to heat loss in winter. Seal them if necessary. Check weather stripping and replace it if needed. Don’t forget the garage door: snow and ice can warp it and create tiny openings that rodents can use to enter.
• To stay warm during cold winter nights, make sure your home is well insulated from the basement to the attic. Check electrical outlets and light switches along cold walls. If you feel cold air coming in, remove the plastic covers and install insulation foam pads specially designed for this purpose.
Heating
• Start your furnace to make sure it works properly. Remove the filter and carefully hold it up to the light. If most of the light is blocked, the filter should be cleaned or replaced.
• If you’re heating with oil, inspect the tank for possible cracks or rust.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that can be dangerous if not detected. Carbon monoxide is produced by wood stoves, fireplaces, propane gas burners and cars left idling in the garage. Make sure your smoke detector works properly and change the battery if required.
• Remove any dust from electric baseboards and clean heating ducts and vents. Clean your humidifier, kitchen fan filter and bathroom fan. For more information, visit rona.ca
November 30, 2010
By Susan Legge
Are you looking for ways to help save the environment and also save money on your utility bill?
Some companies are taking notice of the demand for water saving fixtures and are creating new products with conservation in mind. Companies like Price Pfister, who was one of the first faucet companies to partner with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program out of the U.S., are catering to those looking for ways that they can help be more environmentally conscious.
Here are some tips on how to conserve water in the home by just making a few changes:
· Installing water efficient faucets can save 2,500 gallons per month.
· Installing water efficient showerheads can save 500-800 gallons per month.
· Fixing leaky faucets or plumbing joints can save 20 gallons per day for every leak stopped.
· Turning off water while brushing your teeth can save 3 gallons each day.
· Shortening showers can save 700 gallons per month for every minute
By switching to water efficient plumbing fixtures, the average household can save $170 every year on its water bill. You can use the EPA water saving calculator http://www.epa.gov/watersense/calculate_your_water_savings.html to see how much money you can save each year by changing your faucets and shower heads.
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Price Pfister’s traditional water-pump inspired Ashfield model can reduce water consumption by approximately 30 per cent without compromising your water experience
July 29, 2010
