Renovation Finder Articles
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Upgrading your Furnace
Getting Comfortable for the Winter As we mentally fold up the summer and pack it away for the next 8 months, we need to bear in mind the most important appliance in the home for the upcoming months…the furnace. Consider replacing your furnace if: your unit is more than 20 years old,......
Getting Comfortable for the Winter As we mentally fold up the summer and pack it away for the next 8 months, we need to bear in mind the most important appliance in the home for the upcoming months…the furnace. Consider replacing your furnace if: your unit is more than 20 years old,......
Canadians spend $17.3billion on home renovations
Canadians spent more than $17.3 billion on renovations last year, according to a survey by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation. That works out to an average of more than $11,000 among 1.5 million households in 10 major Canadian centres, including greater Toronto. In addition, 46 per......
Canadians spent more than $17.3 billion on renovations last year, according to a survey by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation. That works out to an average of more than $11,000 among 1.5 million households in 10 major Canadian centres, including greater Toronto. In addition, 46 per......
Working with a Home Renovation Lender
There are a variety of lenders that offer home improvement loans, so you may find it helpful to ask a family member or friend for a recommendation, particularly if they've worked with a home renovation lender in the past. You might also inquire about home remodeling offerings at financial......
There are a variety of lenders that offer home improvement loans, so you may find it helpful to ask a family member or friend for a recommendation, particularly if they've worked with a home renovation lender in the past. You might also inquire about home remodeling offerings at financial......
When is the Best Time for Big Projects?
Everyone waits until summer for their roofing & siding projects or to build their new pool. This is a smart time of the year, for the weather anyway, but you need to consider contractors' busy times, the market fluctuation on material costs, weather, and a gaggle of other things, especially......
Everyone waits until summer for their roofing & siding projects or to build their new pool. This is a smart time of the year, for the weather anyway, but you need to consider contractors' busy times, the market fluctuation on material costs, weather, and a gaggle of other things, especially......
When Do You Call in an Architect?
The right time to contact an architect is in the beginning of a remodeling project. But don't call an architect too soon; it can be a waste of your time and money. You should first gather and organize your thoughts, ideas and expectations. This will allow you to better explain your goals and......
The right time to contact an architect is in the beginning of a remodeling project. But don't call an architect too soon; it can be a waste of your time and money. You should first gather and organize your thoughts, ideas and expectations. This will allow you to better explain your goals and......
The Contract With a Contractor
The contract with a residential general contractor is a critical document because it spells out the scope of work to be performed. In many instances, contracts used for home improvement purposes are pre-printed documents; nonetheless, you should ensure that the contract adequately protects your......
The contract with a residential general contractor is a critical document because it spells out the scope of work to be performed. In many instances, contracts used for home improvement purposes are pre-printed documents; nonetheless, you should ensure that the contract adequately protects your......
The Benefits of Custom Closets
While the cost of custom closets might seem ridiculous to some people, often it is an investment in your efficiency and productivity. And while it may not seem like a necessity, for some with a lot on their plate, getting your closet under control can often help in other areas of their lives.......
While the cost of custom closets might seem ridiculous to some people, often it is an investment in your efficiency and productivity. And while it may not seem like a necessity, for some with a lot on their plate, getting your closet under control can often help in other areas of their lives.......
Sunrooms to Enhance your Lifestyle
Industry experts estimate that more than half-a-million new sunrooms are built in this country each year. Some people put them up to expand their living space or, so they can enjoy the backyard all year-round. Sunrooms are enjoying increasing popularity for a variety of reasons. With people......
Industry experts estimate that more than half-a-million new sunrooms are built in this country each year. Some people put them up to expand their living space or, so they can enjoy the backyard all year-round. Sunrooms are enjoying increasing popularity for a variety of reasons. With people......
Sharing a Bath made easy
Traffic jams should happen on the highway, not in your bathroom. But, the reality is that more than half of master bathrooms are less than 75 square-feetforcing most couples to make do with limited space. There are ways to reduce the congestion in this crowded room. Careful bath remodelling and......
Traffic jams should happen on the highway, not in your bathroom. But, the reality is that more than half of master bathrooms are less than 75 square-feetforcing most couples to make do with limited space. There are ways to reduce the congestion in this crowded room. Careful bath remodelling and......
Searching for the Perfect Great Home Remodeling Idea?
If you’re stumped on what to do for your home, you need a great home remodeling idea to get you started. But finding an idea that suits your tastes and your budget can be a tricky process. However, since there has been a new trend in home decorating shows, books, and magazines, there are......
If you’re stumped on what to do for your home, you need a great home remodeling idea to get you started. But finding an idea that suits your tastes and your budget can be a tricky process. However, since there has been a new trend in home decorating shows, books, and magazines, there are......
Look Behind the Walls when building your dream home
Imagine the excitement and anticipation of building a new home. You spend months choosing all the right details: the color of the paint and carpets, the style of the light fixtures, even the landscaping to welcome you and your guests. After a long wait and hundreds of thousands of dollars, the......
Imagine the excitement and anticipation of building a new home. You spend months choosing all the right details: the color of the paint and carpets, the style of the light fixtures, even the landscaping to welcome you and your guests. After a long wait and hundreds of thousands of dollars, the......
Lighten up your home
Changing the lights in your home can immediately impact a room’s atmosphere. Something as simple as lighting can dramatically change a room. In most homes lighting doesn’t take top priority. In fact, people commonly under-spend when it comes to a lighting home renovation project......
Changing the lights in your home can immediately impact a room’s atmosphere. Something as simple as lighting can dramatically change a room. In most homes lighting doesn’t take top priority. In fact, people commonly under-spend when it comes to a lighting home renovation project......
Kitchens
So you’ve made the decision to finally join the millions of people committing to kitchen renovations this year. Now what? The decision to remodel your kitchen is an important step in home ownership. After all, it is the busiest room in the house and one that often needs the most......
So you’ve made the decision to finally join the millions of people committing to kitchen renovations this year. Now what? The decision to remodel your kitchen is an important step in home ownership. After all, it is the busiest room in the house and one that often needs the most......
Kitchen Updates Worth Every Penny
When it comes to home renovation ideas that yield high returns, kitchens and bathrooms are king! A mid-range kitchen remodel will recoup approximately 91 percent of the costs, while an upscale kitchen remodel will recoup about 85 percent. So what indulgences should you include? For the best......
When it comes to home renovation ideas that yield high returns, kitchens and bathrooms are king! A mid-range kitchen remodel will recoup approximately 91 percent of the costs, while an upscale kitchen remodel will recoup about 85 percent. So what indulgences should you include? For the best......
How to Hire a Home Inspector
We suggest considering the following points to help you maximize the benefits of your next home purchase and the need for bringing in a "Home Inspector." Get a 5 to 10 day time period for the inspection written in your purchase and sale agreement.This should give you time to obtain......
We suggest considering the following points to help you maximize the benefits of your next home purchase and the need for bringing in a "Home Inspector." Get a 5 to 10 day time period for the inspection written in your purchase and sale agreement.This should give you time to obtain......
How Much Does It Cost to Remodel and How Do I Get an Estimate?
The decisions you make on how a remodel project is managed, who will do the work, the design of the changes and the price of the materials and fixtures you choose will have a significant effect on the cost of your remodel. If you choose to hire someone to manage the entire project and you decide......
The decisions you make on how a remodel project is managed, who will do the work, the design of the changes and the price of the materials and fixtures you choose will have a significant effect on the cost of your remodel. If you choose to hire someone to manage the entire project and you decide......
Fixer-Upper: How to Get Started
Now that you have bought your fixer-upper and can see the possibilities, it's still difficult to know exactly where to start. Depending on the size of the home, if you are already living there, and your frequency of visitors, there are many options to consider for your home renovation project.......
Now that you have bought your fixer-upper and can see the possibilities, it's still difficult to know exactly where to start. Depending on the size of the home, if you are already living there, and your frequency of visitors, there are many options to consider for your home renovation project.......
Choosing a Builder for Home Improvement Projects
Home renovation contractors represent a section of the home improvement workforce that includes renovations, remodels, additions, and new construction. They can be subcontractors, residential general contractors, or lead contractors. If you're building a home, for example, you're likely to hire a......
Home renovation contractors represent a section of the home improvement workforce that includes renovations, remodels, additions, and new construction. They can be subcontractors, residential general contractors, or lead contractors. If you're building a home, for example, you're likely to hire a......
5 Simple Steps to a Dream Bathroom
Bathroom remodeling ranks with kitchen remodeling as one of the most popular home renovation projects, perhaps because the return on investment when you sell your home is so high. Bathroom remodeling can cost you as much or as little as you choose to put into it. While a simple spruce-up......
Bathroom remodeling ranks with kitchen remodeling as one of the most popular home renovation projects, perhaps because the return on investment when you sell your home is so high. Bathroom remodeling can cost you as much or as little as you choose to put into it. While a simple spruce-up......
Restoring and Replacing Old Door Hardware
Old doors often outlast the door's hardware. These tips are helpful to keep in mind when replacing and repairing locks, sashes, handles and other hardware. Old solid wood doors are usually a wonderful combination of functionality and aesthetics. Ornate exterior and interior doors have become......
Old doors often outlast the door's hardware. These tips are helpful to keep in mind when replacing and repairing locks, sashes, handles and other hardware. Old solid wood doors are usually a wonderful combination of functionality and aesthetics. Ornate exterior and interior doors have become......
Energy efficient homes & energy star
Looking to save money on your soaring energy bills? Then start by evaluating the effectiveness of your home’s windows. If you feel air through the windows or see faded areas on your carpet, then your windows may not be working hard enough to keep you and your family comfortable.......
Looking to save money on your soaring energy bills? Then start by evaluating the effectiveness of your home’s windows. If you feel air through the windows or see faded areas on your carpet, then your windows may not be working hard enough to keep you and your family comfortable.......
Hanging and Repairing Doors
Replacing or repairing a door can be easy. Here are a few common problems and their do-it-yourself solutions to fix your broken door. When you consider the workouts that interior doors get each day, it's not hard to realize that they receive a lot of wear and tear. As a result, doors do......
Replacing or repairing a door can be easy. Here are a few common problems and their do-it-yourself solutions to fix your broken door. When you consider the workouts that interior doors get each day, it's not hard to realize that they receive a lot of wear and tear. As a result, doors do......
Wood Siding
A home's wood siding is constantly exposed to the elements and needs repair fairly regularly. Here is a do-it-yourself guide to wood siding repair. Despite painting, staining and other routine care, a home's siding takes a fairly brutal beating from the elements. That's why flaws such as cracks,......
A home's wood siding is constantly exposed to the elements and needs repair fairly regularly. Here is a do-it-yourself guide to wood siding repair. Despite painting, staining and other routine care, a home's siding takes a fairly brutal beating from the elements. That's why flaws such as cracks,......
All About Siding
There can be no question about the importance of siding concerning the durability of a home, but also for its beauty and maintenance. It is the outer cover of a house that is made to shed water and provide protection from weathering. Siding can help in the prevention of the penetration of......
There can be no question about the importance of siding concerning the durability of a home, but also for its beauty and maintenance. It is the outer cover of a house that is made to shed water and provide protection from weathering. Siding can help in the prevention of the penetration of......
Roofing Problems
You don't pay much attention to your roof until there is a problem. Then it is an emergency. Jim gives you the basics about roof repair and replacement options. Considering the role they play, roofs are fairly much an unappreciated and overlooked part of the house - until they need repairing or......
You don't pay much attention to your roof until there is a problem. Then it is an emergency. Jim gives you the basics about roof repair and replacement options. Considering the role they play, roofs are fairly much an unappreciated and overlooked part of the house - until they need repairing or......
New and Old Options for Home Exterior
If you are planning on changing the exterior of your home there are more choices than ever. From acrylic stucco to vinyl siding, Jim reviews all the options. For some homeowners considering redoing the outside of their homes, there's good news: There are more choices than ever when it comes to......
If you are planning on changing the exterior of your home there are more choices than ever. From acrylic stucco to vinyl siding, Jim reviews all the options. For some homeowners considering redoing the outside of their homes, there's good news: There are more choices than ever when it comes to......
Need a Plumbing Emergency Fix? We can help you Fix it!
It is not always practical to wait for the plumber when you need to fix or repair a leaking pipe immediately!Below are tips and advice on how to fix your plumbing problem in the short and long term:Temporary Fix & Repair:Isolate the water supply to the pipe that is affected and drain it......
It is not always practical to wait for the plumber when you need to fix or repair a leaking pipe immediately!Below are tips and advice on how to fix your plumbing problem in the short and long term:Temporary Fix & Repair:Isolate the water supply to the pipe that is affected and drain it......
Common Household Repairs
Summary: General house maintenance tasks are typical for do-it-yourself fixes. Here are instructions for making common home repairs. Even the most well maintained house has its share of problems. Outside of normal maintenance, and versus once-in-a-lifetime projects such as roof repairs......
Summary: General house maintenance tasks are typical for do-it-yourself fixes. Here are instructions for making common home repairs. Even the most well maintained house has its share of problems. Outside of normal maintenance, and versus once-in-a-lifetime projects such as roof repairs......
Clogged Drains
When a fixture like a sink, toilet or tub won't drain or drains slowly, there is a blockage somewhere in your plumbing system. When it's only one fixture, the blockage could be in that fixture's trap and you might be able to repair it yourself by using a plunger or hand auger. (You will often......
When a fixture like a sink, toilet or tub won't drain or drains slowly, there is a blockage somewhere in your plumbing system. When it's only one fixture, the blockage could be in that fixture's trap and you might be able to repair it yourself by using a plunger or hand auger. (You will often......
Painting Suggestions
Full Swing into Spring! It’s time to gather up your painting friends and head out to local flea markets and garage sales to find fun exciting surfaces to paint. This issue features a variety of designs that you can easily adapt to a number of “found” surfaces or items you might......
Full Swing into Spring! It’s time to gather up your painting friends and head out to local flea markets and garage sales to find fun exciting surfaces to paint. This issue features a variety of designs that you can easily adapt to a number of “found” surfaces or items you might......
Paints Colors Persona
The Three Sides to a Paint Color's Personality Colors are the basic elements of a painting. Gaining an intimate knowledge of the personalities of the colors you use is crucial in learning to paint. We tend to simply call paint a particular color, whether general such as “light blue”,......
The Three Sides to a Paint Color's Personality Colors are the basic elements of a painting. Gaining an intimate knowledge of the personalities of the colors you use is crucial in learning to paint. We tend to simply call paint a particular color, whether general such as “light blue”,......
Designing Rules
On your next inside painting project, religiously follow these simple rules and I guarantee that you will save at least 2 hours. Here we go! Slosh Your Brush Before painting, slosh your brush in whatever solvent you will be using at the end of the day to clean the brush (i.e., water......
On your next inside painting project, religiously follow these simple rules and I guarantee that you will save at least 2 hours. Here we go! Slosh Your Brush Before painting, slosh your brush in whatever solvent you will be using at the end of the day to clean the brush (i.e., water......
Colour Your World: Great Ideas
If you're looking to inject a little spring colour into your abode Peter Fallico, host of HGTV's Home to Go, offers five easy do-it-yourself art projects to add a fresh new look to your home. Take Cover Recover your lampshades for a splash of color. Using a drum shade or a tapered shade (pleated......
If you're looking to inject a little spring colour into your abode Peter Fallico, host of HGTV's Home to Go, offers five easy do-it-yourself art projects to add a fresh new look to your home. Take Cover Recover your lampshades for a splash of color. Using a drum shade or a tapered shade (pleated......
How to Choose the Right Paint Colour
Your Guide to Interior Decorating. When it comes to decorating, choosing paint color can really be a challenge. While you may feel that there are so many choices you're bound to find the right one, you may end up feeling that there are so many choices you don't know where to start! The tips......
Your Guide to Interior Decorating. When it comes to decorating, choosing paint color can really be a challenge. While you may feel that there are so many choices you're bound to find the right one, you may end up feeling that there are so many choices you don't know where to start! The tips......
Tips for Landscaping your Garden
Beautifying your garden does not mean spending a lot of money to make it happen. By following these tips for landscaping your garden, you will be able to have a very appealing garden that people will love to visit and will appreciate. The first thing that a person needs to do before starting......
Beautifying your garden does not mean spending a lot of money to make it happen. By following these tips for landscaping your garden, you will be able to have a very appealing garden that people will love to visit and will appreciate. The first thing that a person needs to do before starting......
Landscaping Tips
Great first impressions start with your driveway. And it makes perfect sense to welcome spring with a fine landscaped driveway. This also includes the design elements that are on either side of the drive, as well as those that are running at the top and at the bottom of it. You can make your......
Great first impressions start with your driveway. And it makes perfect sense to welcome spring with a fine landscaped driveway. This also includes the design elements that are on either side of the drive, as well as those that are running at the top and at the bottom of it. You can make your......
Landscaping Driveways
Landscaping driveways can consist of both hardscape and softscape. Hardscape options consist mainly of walls and fences, while your softscape options for landscaping driveways include the following: Flower beds Ground covers Ornamental trees Shrubs The possibilities for landscaping......
Landscaping driveways can consist of both hardscape and softscape. Hardscape options consist mainly of walls and fences, while your softscape options for landscaping driveways include the following: Flower beds Ground covers Ornamental trees Shrubs The possibilities for landscaping......
Gardening Trends
Water Gardens pond of any size is a soothing and visually peaceful feature in any backyard. But no pond is quite complete without the addition of water plants. And while looking after water plants isn’t difficult, it helps to have a little know-how before you get started. Location,......
Water Gardens pond of any size is a soothing and visually peaceful feature in any backyard. But no pond is quite complete without the addition of water plants. And while looking after water plants isn’t difficult, it helps to have a little know-how before you get started. Location,......
Deck Building Checklist
Have you been dreaming about adding to the value of your home with a sunny, comfy deck area? Perhaps the time has come to go for it! But before you start this project, carefully consider all its components and come up with a detailed plan. To help you do this, check out our handy guide: Plan......
Have you been dreaming about adding to the value of your home with a sunny, comfy deck area? Perhaps the time has come to go for it! But before you start this project, carefully consider all its components and come up with a detailed plan. To help you do this, check out our handy guide: Plan......
How to Avoid the Shadow Trap
When planning the lighting for your bathroom, be careful not to fall in to the shadow trap. Recessed lighting fixtures are very popular these days and are usually recommended by the contractors. If you are relying on them as your sole source of illumination at your vanity you will fall into the......
When planning the lighting for your bathroom, be careful not to fall in to the shadow trap. Recessed lighting fixtures are very popular these days and are usually recommended by the contractors. If you are relying on them as your sole source of illumination at your vanity you will fall into the......
Top 10 Kitchen Renovation Tips
From the cabinets to the appliances, find out how to ensure a successful renovation. Renovating your kitchen will add ease to your lifestyle and value to your home. Here are the 10 most important things to consider when you're updating your kitchen. Use quality materials. Quality drawer......
From the cabinets to the appliances, find out how to ensure a successful renovation. Renovating your kitchen will add ease to your lifestyle and value to your home. Here are the 10 most important things to consider when you're updating your kitchen. Use quality materials. Quality drawer......
Kitchen Remodel Tips
Things To Keep In Mind Once you have your space planned out, the biggest challenge in remodeling your kitchen is to not only choose good materials and colours for it but also create a lively interior that incorporates appliances and cabinets with structural elements. Trading Spaces: Geography......
Things To Keep In Mind Once you have your space planned out, the biggest challenge in remodeling your kitchen is to not only choose good materials and colours for it but also create a lively interior that incorporates appliances and cabinets with structural elements. Trading Spaces: Geography......
Bathroom Storage Solutions
Usually the smallest room in the house, the bathroom is traffic central and it can be incredibly difficult to keep organized. Rest assured, even if you have a tiny bathroom there is a lot that can be done to keep your bathroom both stylish and organized. And it doesn’t have to involve......
Usually the smallest room in the house, the bathroom is traffic central and it can be incredibly difficult to keep organized. Rest assured, even if you have a tiny bathroom there is a lot that can be done to keep your bathroom both stylish and organized. And it doesn’t have to involve......
Bathroom Accessories: Go beyond practical
Whether or not you’re remodeling your bathroom, choosing stylish bathroom accessories is a quick and easy way to take your bathroom from boring to beautiful. Not just for looks, well-chosen bathroom accessories will make your bathroom look more organized and less cluttered. It......
Whether or not you’re remodeling your bathroom, choosing stylish bathroom accessories is a quick and easy way to take your bathroom from boring to beautiful. Not just for looks, well-chosen bathroom accessories will make your bathroom look more organized and less cluttered. It......
4 Tips on Remodeling your Family Room
Choose the right flat-screen TV. What is a family room without a TV? LCD TV's beat plasma TV's thanks to their anti-glare picture, sharp viewing angles and no burn-in on the screen. Remember to consider size, design and resolution level (1080p versus 720p). Dont be Afraid to show off......
Choose the right flat-screen TV. What is a family room without a TV? LCD TV's beat plasma TV's thanks to their anti-glare picture, sharp viewing angles and no burn-in on the screen. Remember to consider size, design and resolution level (1080p versus 720p). Dont be Afraid to show off......
10 Design Tips: The Master Bedroom
Here are 10 tips for designing a grand master bedroom, perfect for everyday escapes: Consult a professional before knocking down a wall to capture more space. If it’s load-bearing new structural reinforcement will be needed. Consider bricking up a dark, unused window for added wall......
Here are 10 tips for designing a grand master bedroom, perfect for everyday escapes: Consult a professional before knocking down a wall to capture more space. If it’s load-bearing new structural reinforcement will be needed. Consider bricking up a dark, unused window for added wall......
The Home Office: Put the Fun back in Functional
Do I Need A Home Office? If you work from home, the answer is definitely yes, you do! Working from your dining room, kitchen or coffee table tends to be non-productive. Not only are these less than ideal spaces for work, but the downtime involved in packing up and moving your "office"......
Do I Need A Home Office? If you work from home, the answer is definitely yes, you do! Working from your dining room, kitchen or coffee table tends to be non-productive. Not only are these less than ideal spaces for work, but the downtime involved in packing up and moving your "office"......
20 Ways To Spruce Up your Kitchen
Add Value To Your Home - On A Budget! The kitchen is one of the rooms that traditionally sells houses. Most experts agree that it’s not always practical to remodel a kitchen, but you can benefit in the long run if you spend time on minor improvements and general sprucing up. Consider......
Add Value To Your Home - On A Budget! The kitchen is one of the rooms that traditionally sells houses. Most experts agree that it’s not always practical to remodel a kitchen, but you can benefit in the long run if you spend time on minor improvements and general sprucing up. Consider......
Home Security Lets Us Nest in Peace
You're driving home from a tough day at the office and thinking about a long soak in the hot tub in the back yard—but you don't relish waiting for the water to heat up. Or perhaps you rushed out of the house without setting the alarm system, an omission you remember when you're already at......
You're driving home from a tough day at the office and thinking about a long soak in the hot tub in the back yard—but you don't relish waiting for the water to heat up. Or perhaps you rushed out of the house without setting the alarm system, an omission you remember when you're already at......
Burglary Deterrents
Outsmarting Intruders Looking for the best ways to protect your home and personal valuables from burglars? In addition to having a home security system, there are smart steps you can take to avoid being victimized. The home security experts at the Home Security Store offer this valuable advice to......
Outsmarting Intruders Looking for the best ways to protect your home and personal valuables from burglars? In addition to having a home security system, there are smart steps you can take to avoid being victimized. The home security experts at the Home Security Store offer this valuable advice to......
Home Security: How to Be Safe When You are at Home
In general, burglars will avoid occupied houses. However, there always exceptions to the rule, and you shouldn't assume that nothing can ever happen when you're at home. If someone breaks in while you're not there, your belongings are at risk. If someone breaks in when your family is home, your......
In general, burglars will avoid occupied houses. However, there always exceptions to the rule, and you shouldn't assume that nothing can ever happen when you're at home. If someone breaks in while you're not there, your belongings are at risk. If someone breaks in when your family is home, your......
Planning Your New Dream Home – Finding the Right Home Builder
When beginning a new home construction project, finding just the right home builder or general contractor in Canada is only part of the overall planning. Developing plans for the construction of your new dream home requires a carefully thought out vision or concept of the undertaking. Including......
When beginning a new home construction project, finding just the right home builder or general contractor in Canada is only part of the overall planning. Developing plans for the construction of your new dream home requires a carefully thought out vision or concept of the undertaking. Including......
5 Tips on Hiring Home Improvement Contractors on Referral
One of the biggest Household problems Americans face is, who to hire for their home improvement project. While advertisements, yellow pages and referral services are widely used, the personal referral from a friend, family or neighbor has been the most trusted and commonly practiced method. Here......
One of the biggest Household problems Americans face is, who to hire for their home improvement project. While advertisements, yellow pages and referral services are widely used, the personal referral from a friend, family or neighbor has been the most trusted and commonly practiced method. Here......
How to Hire a Contractor
From licences and terms to contracts and reference checks, hiring a contractor for your home gets a little easier with these great tips.Licences and Insurance Each contractor who comes onto your property should have a valid licence. Make sure you ask to see it and inspect it closely.......
From licences and terms to contracts and reference checks, hiring a contractor for your home gets a little easier with these great tips.Licences and Insurance Each contractor who comes onto your property should have a valid licence. Make sure you ask to see it and inspect it closely.......
Remember....you get what you pay for!
In the last edition, we discussed the process of getting quotes on your project from potential contractors. This time we’re taking it one step further and looking at the importance checking the quality of your contractor – including appropriate insurance coverage, something that is......
In the last edition, we discussed the process of getting quotes on your project from potential contractors. This time we’re taking it one step further and looking at the importance checking the quality of your contractor – including appropriate insurance coverage, something that is......
10 Tips for Hiring a Contractor
A very smart attorney I know paid $7,000 for a roof repair, only to have the roof leak the next time it rained. The contractor stalled, made excuses, but never did a thing about it. Anyone can have these kinds of problems when having repairs or improvements done, but to make it less likely, avoid......
A very smart attorney I know paid $7,000 for a roof repair, only to have the roof leak the next time it rained. The contractor stalled, made excuses, but never did a thing about it. Anyone can have these kinds of problems when having repairs or improvements done, but to make it less likely, avoid......
Hardwood Floors
Almost everyone loves the look and feel of wood floors. However, few of us know much beyond look and price. Hardwood is a considerable investment and making an ill-informed decision can be a costly mistake. Builder, Ramsin Khachi offers these basic guidelines so you will know what questions......
Almost everyone loves the look and feel of wood floors. However, few of us know much beyond look and price. Hardwood is a considerable investment and making an ill-informed decision can be a costly mistake. Builder, Ramsin Khachi offers these basic guidelines so you will know what questions......
Flooring Ideas for your Kitchen
New flooring can be an excellent means of giving your kitchen a new look. The choices for kitchen flooring are almost endless, depending on what best suits your sense of style and your pocketbook. Style and budget aside, upkeep and lasting quality are the factors that most influence what ends up......
New flooring can be an excellent means of giving your kitchen a new look. The choices for kitchen flooring are almost endless, depending on what best suits your sense of style and your pocketbook. Style and budget aside, upkeep and lasting quality are the factors that most influence what ends up......
Eco-chic Flooring
It wasn't so long ago that all floors were covered in either hardwood or wall-to-wall carpeting. This tradition seems to be changing with our growing concern for the environment. There are too many trees being chopped down, and synthetic padding and carpet glues are considered invisible villains.......
It wasn't so long ago that all floors were covered in either hardwood or wall-to-wall carpeting. This tradition seems to be changing with our growing concern for the environment. There are too many trees being chopped down, and synthetic padding and carpet glues are considered invisible villains.......
Wireless Doorbell Guide
There are two kinds of doorbells on the market, wired doorbells and wireless doorbells. Wired doorbells run off household current. The bell is wired to the chime through the walls. Wired doorbells are the most common and are found in older homes as well as newer homes. Wireless doorbells as the......
There are two kinds of doorbells on the market, wired doorbells and wireless doorbells. Wired doorbells run off household current. The bell is wired to the chime through the walls. Wired doorbells are the most common and are found in older homes as well as newer homes. Wireless doorbells as the......
Don’t Get Tangled With An Unlicensed Electrical Contractor
Meeting The Code When considering new construction or a remodeling project, one of the most important aspects is the electrical portion of the work. While many homeowners do some of the electrical work themselves, it is wise to enlist the services of a licensed electrical contractor. Electrical......
Meeting The Code When considering new construction or a remodeling project, one of the most important aspects is the electrical portion of the work. While many homeowners do some of the electrical work themselves, it is wise to enlist the services of a licensed electrical contractor. Electrical......
Inside Tips for Outdoor Electrical Safety
As summer winds down, most of us will spend our time outdoors barbecuing, going to the pool and doing home repairs. While you enjoy the fresh air, don’t let a dangerous electrical hazard put you at risk. The Leviton Institute has developed some electrical safety tips to keep you safe as you......
As summer winds down, most of us will spend our time outdoors barbecuing, going to the pool and doing home repairs. While you enjoy the fresh air, don’t let a dangerous electrical hazard put you at risk. The Leviton Institute has developed some electrical safety tips to keep you safe as you......
Replacing Electrical Outlets
Homeowners can safely replace old or faulty electrical outlets on their own with these instructions. No electrician needed! Home electrical work is not something typically recommended for the do-it-yourselfer. Last week, however, we talked about replacing a broken light switch as one project that......
Homeowners can safely replace old or faulty electrical outlets on their own with these instructions. No electrician needed! Home electrical work is not something typically recommended for the do-it-yourselfer. Last week, however, we talked about replacing a broken light switch as one project that......
An Introduction to Home Heating with Wood
Wood-Heating Appliances Wood Stoves These are the most common wood-heating appliances, used by more than 80 percent of Canadians who heat with wood. A stove is a flexible option because it can be safely located almost anywhere in the house if there is enough space for proper clearances and a......
Wood-Heating Appliances Wood Stoves These are the most common wood-heating appliances, used by more than 80 percent of Canadians who heat with wood. A stove is a flexible option because it can be safely located almost anywhere in the house if there is enough space for proper clearances and a......
Heating and Cooling Tips
You probably already know that heating and cooling your home is your biggest energy cost. But combine proper maintenance and upgrades with a few energy-efficiency tips, and you can reduce your energy bills by 50% and cut pollution for all of us. Here’s how: Be modest with your......
You probably already know that heating and cooling your home is your biggest energy cost. But combine proper maintenance and upgrades with a few energy-efficiency tips, and you can reduce your energy bills by 50% and cut pollution for all of us. Here’s how: Be modest with your......
Caring for your Air Conditioner
When it comes to getting the most from your air conditioner there are some things you can do that will extend its life and keep it operating at maximum efficiency. All of these things fall under the category of maintenance. Much of this maintenance you can do yourself. Some will require hiring a......
When it comes to getting the most from your air conditioner there are some things you can do that will extend its life and keep it operating at maximum efficiency. All of these things fall under the category of maintenance. Much of this maintenance you can do yourself. Some will require hiring a......
Air Conditioning Tips!
There are plenty of things you should be doing in your home that can save you money in the long run including regular maintenance. Here are some suggestions for you: Energy Saving Tips Don't locate your air conditioner in direct sunlight-particularly on the south side of your home where it......
There are plenty of things you should be doing in your home that can save you money in the long run including regular maintenance. Here are some suggestions for you: Energy Saving Tips Don't locate your air conditioner in direct sunlight-particularly on the south side of your home where it......
Update and Organize your Entertainment Center
It’s time to clear the clutter and clean house now that spring has made its very welcome reappearance. Think beyond the closets and kitchen and take a look at your entertainment center, already in dire need of a facelift, to determine what can be discarded and what needs a serious upgrade.......
It’s time to clear the clutter and clean house now that spring has made its very welcome reappearance. Think beyond the closets and kitchen and take a look at your entertainment center, already in dire need of a facelift, to determine what can be discarded and what needs a serious upgrade.......
Breathe Easy: Healthy Home Living Advice
When it comes to the health and well-being of a home and its owners, windows and doors can play a major role. Homeowners can take a few simple steps to help create a healthy living environment. Choosing the right windows and doors and using them properly contributes to a home’s indoor......
When it comes to the health and well-being of a home and its owners, windows and doors can play a major role. Homeowners can take a few simple steps to help create a healthy living environment. Choosing the right windows and doors and using them properly contributes to a home’s indoor......
Selling Your Home in a Buyers Market
Tips from the Pros on Getting the Price You Want in the Shortest Time By now you’ve read the headlines announcing the current housing rut. Too many homes are on the market, causing slow sales and falling asking prices. While it’s the perfect time to buy a home, it is certainly more......
Tips from the Pros on Getting the Price You Want in the Shortest Time By now you’ve read the headlines announcing the current housing rut. Too many homes are on the market, causing slow sales and falling asking prices. While it’s the perfect time to buy a home, it is certainly more......
Building Green is Building Momentum
Green building practices reduce negative impacts on human health and the environment through better design, construction, operation, and removal of materials. Ultimately, green building increases the efficiency in which materials are harvested and used. When it comes to picking a floor for your......
Green building practices reduce negative impacts on human health and the environment through better design, construction, operation, and removal of materials. Ultimately, green building increases the efficiency in which materials are harvested and used. When it comes to picking a floor for your......
Women Increasingly Drive Home Improvement Industry
Men have traditionally taken the lead on home improvement projects. But today, women are not only involved in the decision-making process of what needs to be done and whether to do-it-yourself or hire it done, but are also making the actual purchases. Women account for more than $70 billion......
Men have traditionally taken the lead on home improvement projects. But today, women are not only involved in the decision-making process of what needs to be done and whether to do-it-yourself or hire it done, but are also making the actual purchases. Women account for more than $70 billion......
When Selling your Home it Pays to Perk up where you Park
Realtors in a nationwide survey say replacing your garage door prior to listing your home can increase its demand and help you reach your asking price. This may largely be due to homeowner demand for more storage space making three-car garages a typical standard and a major design focal point.......
Realtors in a nationwide survey say replacing your garage door prior to listing your home can increase its demand and help you reach your asking price. This may largely be due to homeowner demand for more storage space making three-car garages a typical standard and a major design focal point.......
Adding a Bath from scratch?
If a bathroom addition is on your project list, consider an above-floor plumbing system especially for a basement remodel or any other room where you don’t have accessible, below-floor plumbing. Above-floor plumbing is a super alternative to conventional plumbing and a great......
If a bathroom addition is on your project list, consider an above-floor plumbing system especially for a basement remodel or any other room where you don’t have accessible, below-floor plumbing. Above-floor plumbing is a super alternative to conventional plumbing and a great......
Best Tile Trends
Tile manufacturers today are shattering the stereotypes with vibrant colors, animal prints, metal and wood effects, and dimensional textures. The trend is towards imitating fabrics and patterns already welcomed in design, such as leather, silk, damask and denim, and leopard spots, tiger stripes,......
Tile manufacturers today are shattering the stereotypes with vibrant colors, animal prints, metal and wood effects, and dimensional textures. The trend is towards imitating fabrics and patterns already welcomed in design, such as leather, silk, damask and denim, and leopard spots, tiger stripes,......
Big Ideas for Homes: Making a Good First Impression
A home’s exterior makes or breaks the first impression when prospective buyers see your home initially. If you’re looking to add value to your home without spending a lot of money, consider enhancing its curb appeal with a new front door. A spruced-up entryway can add as much as......
A home’s exterior makes or breaks the first impression when prospective buyers see your home initially. If you’re looking to add value to your home without spending a lot of money, consider enhancing its curb appeal with a new front door. A spruced-up entryway can add as much as......
Boring to Beautiful Bathroom on a Small Budget
If it’s time for your bathroom update there are big changes you can make without spending big dollars. You can get everything you need at your local home improvement store, the rest is just labor. One weekend is all you need to transform you bathroom into something beautiful. Color......
If it’s time for your bathroom update there are big changes you can make without spending big dollars. You can get everything you need at your local home improvement store, the rest is just labor. One weekend is all you need to transform you bathroom into something beautiful. Color......
Classic Outdoor Living Made Easy
If you’re thinking about making some home improvements this year, consider increasing the value of your home with the addition of a deck. A deck can give you more living space and bring the feeling of the great outdoors right to your back yard. Whether you do-it-yourself or hire a pro, a......
If you’re thinking about making some home improvements this year, consider increasing the value of your home with the addition of a deck. A deck can give you more living space and bring the feeling of the great outdoors right to your back yard. Whether you do-it-yourself or hire a pro, a......
Décor Accents that will make your Home Standout
Everyone has some coordination in their home. The knobs on your cabinets match the kitchen sink, or all of the lighting fixtures on your upper level are the same, and every window in your home has matching window coverings. Matching looks allows you to create a sense of flow blending......
Everyone has some coordination in their home. The knobs on your cabinets match the kitchen sink, or all of the lighting fixtures on your upper level are the same, and every window in your home has matching window coverings. Matching looks allows you to create a sense of flow blending......
Design your Deck to Last
While some people will immediately rush to the backyard and start turning over the garden, others will start a home improvement project they’ve been looking forward to all winter long, a deck is one of the most popular springtime home improvement projects. Adding a deck is also one of the......
While some people will immediately rush to the backyard and start turning over the garden, others will start a home improvement project they’ve been looking forward to all winter long, a deck is one of the most popular springtime home improvement projects. Adding a deck is also one of the......
DIY - Increasing Your Home’s Resale Value
Homeowners are looking for ways to ensure top dollar when selling their homes. There are many DIY projects homeowners can easily do in a weekend that will increase the value of their property. PAINT A fresh coat of paint makes a world of difference inside a home. Depending on size of your......
Homeowners are looking for ways to ensure top dollar when selling their homes. There are many DIY projects homeowners can easily do in a weekend that will increase the value of their property. PAINT A fresh coat of paint makes a world of difference inside a home. Depending on size of your......
Flooring: The Foundation of Your Design
Creativity is one of the most important elements in interior design. Until recently the steadfast rule was to choose furniture, accessories and paint first. Then almost as an afterthought, choose flooring. Nowadays, decorators have changed their tune. They recognize that flooring can be the......
Creativity is one of the most important elements in interior design. Until recently the steadfast rule was to choose furniture, accessories and paint first. Then almost as an afterthought, choose flooring. Nowadays, decorators have changed their tune. They recognize that flooring can be the......
Home Improvement 101
You made some smart decisions about the housing market and now you’re sitting pretty in a house with some equity or you’ve been in your home for a while and the house has equity but is not up to par on modern style and trends. It may be time for a home project that will improve......
You made some smart decisions about the housing market and now you’re sitting pretty in a house with some equity or you’ve been in your home for a while and the house has equity but is not up to par on modern style and trends. It may be time for a home project that will improve......
How to Install Wide Plank Wood Floors over Concrete
Wood over concrete can be done. For the longest time, homeowners were warned that wide plank wood floors installed over concrete would result in moisture problems. But that’s not so anymore. A concrete sub-floor is no reason to deny your home beautiful wood floors. It is true that wood......
Wood over concrete can be done. For the longest time, homeowners were warned that wide plank wood floors installed over concrete would result in moisture problems. But that’s not so anymore. A concrete sub-floor is no reason to deny your home beautiful wood floors. It is true that wood......
Improve the Curb Appeal of Your Home with Outdoor Lighting
Every year homeowners busy themselves with an array of home improvement projects. Beautiful trees, gardens and landscaping are once again a source of enjoyment and home beautification. But a little outdoor lighting can increase the value of the investments these homeowners make in their......
Every year homeowners busy themselves with an array of home improvement projects. Beautiful trees, gardens and landscaping are once again a source of enjoyment and home beautification. But a little outdoor lighting can increase the value of the investments these homeowners make in their......
Mini Makeover for your Guest Bath
If your guest bath is trapped in the past don’t despair! There are some quick and inexpensive changes you can make that will trick your guests into thinking you spent the time and money on a major remodel. Just follow this timeline and soon you will be showing the old bath the door.......
If your guest bath is trapped in the past don’t despair! There are some quick and inexpensive changes you can make that will trick your guests into thinking you spent the time and money on a major remodel. Just follow this timeline and soon you will be showing the old bath the door.......
Retractable Awnings Add Space without Costly Addition
When looking at summer home improvements, many times we think about adding an addition to expand our livable space. But building an addition can be inconvenient, costly and take a long time. A new trend with consumers is to add retractable awnings to their home’s exterior. Awnings can......
When looking at summer home improvements, many times we think about adding an addition to expand our livable space. But building an addition can be inconvenient, costly and take a long time. A new trend with consumers is to add retractable awnings to their home’s exterior. Awnings can......
Take Back Your Garage by Easy Organization
Yard tools, storage boxes, cluttered corners, garages are not usually a room you show off in your home. But things are changing and the new trend in home improvement is functional garage that extends your living space. Many homeowners feel the garage sets the tone for the whole house and really......
Yard tools, storage boxes, cluttered corners, garages are not usually a room you show off in your home. But things are changing and the new trend in home improvement is functional garage that extends your living space. Many homeowners feel the garage sets the tone for the whole house and really......
Ten Easy Steps for Reconditioning your Fence or Deck
As the weather gets warmer, we begin to spend more time outdoors. The best part of having a yard is enjoying it during these months, but when items in your yard such as your fence and deck look worn and drab, it takes away from the pleasure. Now is a good time to check the condition of your......
As the weather gets warmer, we begin to spend more time outdoors. The best part of having a yard is enjoying it during these months, but when items in your yard such as your fence and deck look worn and drab, it takes away from the pleasure. Now is a good time to check the condition of your......
What Recessed Lighting Can do for you
When it comes to lighting, people often focus on the fixture style, contemporary, traditional and retro are among the most popular -- but experts say to truly decorate with light you should be paying more attention to what the light source is doing. A lot of people think wall scones and......
When it comes to lighting, people often focus on the fixture style, contemporary, traditional and retro are among the most popular -- but experts say to truly decorate with light you should be paying more attention to what the light source is doing. A lot of people think wall scones and......
Overcoming Kitchen Problems
Problem #1: Lots of space and high ceilings. While large kitchens have all the space you’ll ever need, dividing it up into manageable portions is hard. “Fortunately, I had a client who believes in having only one focal point in the room, which in this case, is the limestone mantle......
Problem #1: Lots of space and high ceilings. While large kitchens have all the space you’ll ever need, dividing it up into manageable portions is hard. “Fortunately, I had a client who believes in having only one focal point in the room, which in this case, is the limestone mantle......
Fire Prevention
Do you take fire prevention seriously? Consider these statistics Fire is one of the leading causes of accidental death in the home. Fire most often affects children and the elderly. Fires account for more than $2 billion in damage to homes each year. To keep your home and family safe......
Do you take fire prevention seriously? Consider these statistics Fire is one of the leading causes of accidental death in the home. Fire most often affects children and the elderly. Fires account for more than $2 billion in damage to homes each year. To keep your home and family safe......
Home Invasion Robbery
Protect Your Family with a Security Plan Home Invasion One of the more frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can occur to a family is a home invasion robbery. A home invasion is when robbers force their way into an occupied home, apartment or hotel room to commit a robbery or other......
Protect Your Family with a Security Plan Home Invasion One of the more frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can occur to a family is a home invasion robbery. A home invasion is when robbers force their way into an occupied home, apartment or hotel room to commit a robbery or other......
Bathroom Design Ideas
Let these bathroom design ideas help you design that perfect bathroom Bathroom Design Ideas Are you looking to add a little life to your bathroom without draining your bank account? Check out these simple ways to redesign your bathroom on a budget. Bathrooms often get the short end of the stick......
Let these bathroom design ideas help you design that perfect bathroom Bathroom Design Ideas Are you looking to add a little life to your bathroom without draining your bank account? Check out these simple ways to redesign your bathroom on a budget. Bathrooms often get the short end of the stick......