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Budget Bathroom Ideas

The media is flooded with inspirational and reasonably priced bathroom environments, ranging from interior design shows to celebrity bathroom remodels seen on Instagram. However, even budget bathrooms can be just as amazing as more expensive ones.

The majority of small bathroom ideas are still doable, regardless of your budget. You may still pay homage to the hottest interior design trends without hiring a contractor thanks to lookalike surfaces and creative DIY workarounds.

Keep reading to find details on how to achieve bathroom bliss on a budget, as well as general bathroom decor ideas for redoing your bathroom without spending too much money.

Get Rid Of Grime In Between Your Wall Tiles

You might not have to retile your bathroom. Tile grouting techniques can get your small bathroom look nicer without redoing everything. All that’s left are toothbrushes, lotion, and elbow grease.

When it comes to cleaning up the grout you will immediately brighten up your bathroom wall for just a few bucks. 1 tablespoon of mild dish detergent, 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide, and 3/4 cup baking soda make a cleaning paste that can destroy grime buildup between tiles.

Place the paste around every corner and leave it for about 15 minutes. After leaving this for a while, wash it off using clean water. The combination of baking soda and peroxide is amazingly effective for cleaning grout.

Consider Small Design Details and Bathroom Furniture

When you want to improve the appearance of your toilet, it’s important to focus on the details. Simple mirrors can work wonders. Just adding one to the back of your toilet can completely change the appearance of a bathroom renovation.

Darker colours work extremely well against light porcelain. To maintain the contrast, keep an eye on extra accessories for sinks. Even with compact sinks, it’s important to have decorative and attractive items strategically placed. It just enhances the overall feeling.

Exchange Dated Country For A Chic Western Theme

Try to stick to darker shades of beige browns for a rustic bathroom suit. Mixing them up will keep the décor and add personality. Curtains for showers are perfectly matched by wood-covered sink tops.

Certain mirror frames can offer a cool, weathered appearance and take rustic charm to an entirely different level. Minimalist decor can go a long way, as the fewer items that take up a small space, the more effective each item can be.

Use Online Marketplaces For Materials and Go DIY

There is nothing more rewarding than doing something yourself. It can become messy and take longer than it might take professionals but there’s plenty of guidance available for those who are up to the task.

Not to mention, it offers obvious savings in labor. The more things you get done yourself, the less you will have to leave to a costly professional. Just make sure that you thoroughly read any guides or information you find online so that it gets done properly.

Light Colors and Open Storage Make The Room Bigger

If you need your small bathroom floor space to appear bigger, you can find many ways to achieve that effect. Alternatively, lighten it by adding bright colors, bathroom wallpaper, and bold illumination. Darker sinks are perfectly paired with white cabinets.

Both are compatible with warm bathroom walls. You can open the storage space up further by using open storage instead of closed cabinets or a vanity unit. This also allows the room to feel large and spacious. Plus, it keeps everything easily accessible to make it functional and attractive to visitors.

Fake Tiling With Adhesive Wall and Floor Solutions

No matter their level of expertise, DIYers can find installing tile to be scary. Choosing the ideal bathroom wall tile takes effort, money, tools, and time. If you’re on the fence about tiling traditionally, you may be curious about peel-and-stick tile.

Compared to traditional tiling, peel-and-stick tile installation may be completed quickly, affordably, and with a lot less mess. You only need a utility knife, ruler, and level in terms of equipment. You’ll also need some time, preferably not more than a day, but at least a few hours.

Hang A Printed Shower Curtain

The bathroom is often overlooked for color, pattern, and print. It is very much a place where you can easily embrace bold designs. A tasteful shower screen can make all the difference in the world while staying cost-effective. Adding upscale bathroom drapes with matching designs can also be an inexpensive way to make a bold style statement.

Don’t Forget The Bathroom Door!

When it comes to highlighting a home’s beauty and worth, bathroom doors are an often overlooked budget bathroom idea. There are tons of things you can do with different doors to open up your small room design and complement the decor of your home.

For example, you can replace a regular old wooden door with a sliding door. You can also use doors with frosted glass windows to add character while maintaining a level of privacy.

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How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost?

When a kitchen gets overused and shows signs of wear, it’s only a matter of time before you begin considering a renovation. Perhaps you’re making minor revamps to your existing kitchen or pursuing a complete renovation project, either way, a kitchen renovation is a fantastic way to start to rework the mood of your home. In doing so, you might question how much it costs to remodel your kitchen. As with any home renovation project, there’s a significant variation regarding kitchen remodel costs.

Average Cost Of Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen’s size and the extent of the renovation are the main factors for a professionally overhauled kitchen. If you’re aiming to change the layout of the kitchen, then expect to spend more and for the project to demand more time.

A kitchen renovation costs about $20,000 – $80,000 or $100 – $300 per square foot for your average kitchen size of approximately 250 to 300 square feet. An average kitchen renovation covers new cabinetry, sink, countertop, and flooring.

Factors Affecting Kitchen Renovation Costs

When you want to renovate your kitchen, make plans for the following factors that might raise or lower the total cost of your entire project:

  • Labour costs (kitchen designer, architect, plumber, electrician, and carpenter are some service professionals you can expect to help you throughout the whole kitchen project)
  • Scope of the job
  • Kitchen makeover design
  • Materials cost
  • Size of the kitchen

Budgeting On Your Kitchen Renovation

You’ll need to set a budget when you want to remodel your kitchen. Although that eventually revolves around your typical economic status and what you’re seeking, it’s also a clever approach to think of whether your investment will deliver a satisfactory return if and when you choose to put your home up for sale someday.

You can expect to pay around the following amounts based on the extent of your renovation:

  • Minor Remodel – Refacing cabinets, painting ceilings and walls, replacing plumbing fixtures, and laying a new tile backsplash are some basic projects costing between $13,000 and $20,000. 
  • Mid-range Remodel – A mid-range remodel costs about $31,000. This scope of remodeling typically upgrades what is existing and doesn’t need layout modifications. 
  • Major Remodel – A kitchen renovation with a higher than $45,000 cost may involve installing hardwood floors and high-end appliances, relocating windows and doors and upgrading the sink.

You should also set aside 15% – 20% of your total budget for any unforeseen problems.

The final cost of your renovation will be smaller when you only revamp a particular kitchen layout design. For example, relocating a sink or a window to another spot in the kitchen can add $1,500 – $4,500 per object transfer to the project because of the demand for drywall, dust removal, and new plumbing and electrical work.

Estimated Cost Breakdown

Cost Breakdown

Project Element Cost (on average) Percent Of Budget
Cabinetry $6,500 – 8,000 29%
Installation & Labor $4,200 – 5,100 17%
Appliances $3,400 – 4,200 14%
Countertops & Backsplashes $2,400 – 3,000 10%
Flooring $1,600 – 2,100 7%
Lighting $1,050 – 1,500 5%
Painting & Drywall $1,150 – 1,500 5%
Plumbing $750 – 1, 200 4%
Design $730 – 1,200 4%

Kitchen Cabinets

Many homeowners want new cabinets, and the average cabinetry cost is about $6,500. Prices differ depending on the design and materials. Refacing ranges from $4,200 to $9,000. Modern semi-custom cabinets could range from $200 – 600 per linear foot. And, for elegant custom cabinetry that suits your taste, prepare to spend between $360 – $1,200 per linear foot.

Countertop And Backsplash

The cost to remodel a kitchen countertop depends primarily on your chosen type of material. If you want to save money, laminate is the least overpriced for as low as $14 per sq. ft. Natural stone and quartz countertops show a classy finish at a mid-range price starting at $50 per sq. ft. Marble countertops are expensive, costing $150 or more per sq. ft.

A new backsplash takes time and research and should be fire-resistant and easy to clean and sanitize. The average kitchen upgrade costs of having a backsplash installed are between $900 and $2,500.

Kitchen Flooring

It is crucial to consider many different materials for flooring because the cost of raw materials varies widely.

Linoleum and vinyl are the most affordable options, which cost about $1,000-$1,500. But if you want hardwood or tile floors installed in your new kitchen, be ready to spend around $4,500 – $7,500.

Kitchen Lighting

Upgrading your kitchen lighting is a straightforward but practical way to perfect any kitchen renovation. An easy DIY replacement of that old kitchen sink light to a farmhouse pendant light may only cost you approximately $50. The national average for installing elegant, stylish recessed lighting is $150 per fixture.

What Is The Most Expensive Element Of A Kitchen Reno?

The most expensive parts of a kitchen renovation project are often the cabinets, countertops, and appliances, comprising nearly 50 percent of the total project cost.

Most of the time, installation costs, flooring, and painting & drywall are the other primary cost elements of the project.

Top-Requested Features

  • Kitchen island or breakfast bar seating area
  • Coffee bar
  • Specialized storage, walk-in pantry, butler pantry, etc.
  • Lazy Susans and blind corner cabinets
  • Built-in refrigerator or a commercial-style range
  • Dual ovens
  • Drawer dishwashers
  • Enclosed trash and recycling space
  • Recessed ceiling fixtures and pendant lights

Honest Renovations Is your Reliable General Contractor

With proper planning, kitchen renovations can be achieved within your means. It’s also vital to hire a contractor you can trust. Honest Renovations has the experience and proficiency in creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Call us now at 289-260-2462 and get started on your kitchen renovation!

 

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Basement Renovation Ideas

basement renovation

If you have an unfinished basement or just need to update an old, tired one, there are several advantages to fixing your basement space up.

Developing a finished basement increases the amount of living space in your home, effectively giving you a larger house. If you sell your home, having a finished basement increases the value greatly, for an excellent return on your remodelling investment. It’s also a good opportunity to increase energy efficiency and insulate this large area.

If you’re looking for inspiration on what to do with this extra space that’s often underused, here are some popular basement remodel ideas, to help you make the most of your entire home.

Open Up a Dark or Small Basement Space With a Basement Remodel

Basements can feel dingy and cramped, especially if you only have a small space to begin with.

A fresh coat of paint and new flooring will help, but to give the sense of a larger area, avoid paints or floors in a dark colour. Instead, opt for bright white walls, and a lighter floor. If you have a concrete floor, consider moving away from the industrial look, to a softer, warmer laminate or vinyl plank with a good underlayment.

Good lighting is essential to make the area feel more like a living space. Adding high-quality, bright fixtures brightens everything up and looks less utilitarian. Also, for a truly finished basement, don’t forget to finish the small windows properly to make them brighter.

Sliding barn doors are cost-effective and useful for separating rooms. They’re convenient if you do ever need to open up for a bigger basement area, and, because they don’t open outwards, they’re ideal for smaller areas.

An open ceiling with painted ductwork is relatively cheap but looks more finished and gives a feeling of space. A drop-down ceiling helps with insulation and soundproofing and gives the look of a more finished basement.

Recessed shelves, floating shelves, and storage cabinets keep the basement tidy as it gets used more.

Basement Remodelling Ideas

Before jumping into a renovation, consider how you would like to use your space. Is there a type of room that you would like to have, but didn’t think you had the space for? Would you like to have a larger, open-concept area for the family to congregate, or a secluded, quiet book nook or craft room? Beyond the obvious man cave, there are many types of recreational spaces that you may be interested in. Alternatively, you may simply need another all-purpose room to increase functional space.

Here are some finished basement ideas that are popular with many homeowners.

basement gym

Home Gym

A gym is perfect to take advantage of a basement area of any size. Be sure the floors are suitable for the weight loads and activities. Wood or laminate floors are good for yoga, with carpeting or rubber mats to protect the ground from equipment and for reclined exercises.

Room for Family

You may need another bedroom for a child, or want an extra guest bedroom for when friends and family come to stay.

Bathroom

White walls and shower tile, with glass shower doors, open up an enclosed area, for a bright and polished look. A light floor completes it.

Home Theatre

Embrace the dark and take advantage of it with a home theatre and media room. A raised floor with extra seating, dark walls, and recessed, dimmable lighting give the perfect setting for family movie night.

basement playroom

Playroom

An area for the kids to play in is one of the more common finished basement ideas. It doesn’t need to be just toys scattered across an empty room. Lots of storage solutions to keep it tidy, bright colours, and soft flooring will make it a fun and attractive spot. You can get creative by adding features like a climbing wall.

Basement Laundry Room

Many people just have their washer and dryer on bare cement in a concrete corner. Create a proper basement laundry room, to make the space more functional. Doing laundry will be easier and more pleasant. Tile or laminate floors look better but are still easy for cleaning and handle wet spills well. Cabinets and cupboards for storage keep the area tidy.

Home Bar

A wet bar and wine cellar are fun for adults. A cellar is especially good if your basement is cool and dry, although you may want cozy furniture if you plan on spending time in your basement bar to enjoy the drinks. A built-in counter, bar stools, and artistic wine storage make it an attractive feature. Add a mini-fridge, and you’re set to entertain guests.

Office

If you work from home, a basement office can be an excellent location to work from, as it is more isolated from the bustle and noise of the rest of the house.

Apartment

To generate some extra income, if you have a separate entrance and don’t need the extra space, a basement apartment is a valuable addition. By adding a kitchenette, new appliances, a featured living area, and barn doors to separate the sleeping area, you can transform this area into a full apartment.

basement space

Ready to Create Your Dream Basement Space?

For your basement remodel needs, trust Honest Renovations. We have creative basement renovation services that can help you turn your finished basement ideas into realities. Our experienced contractors are experts who work with you at every stage, from design to demolition and construction, and can meet all of your project needs. 

All of our work is to code and we pride ourselves on results that are energy efficient. We are also highly experienced at conversions into legal apartments. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote. 

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Ideas For Small Bathrooms: Best Designs for Small Bathrooms

If you’ve got a small bathroom, you may be struggling with cramped space. It may seem like it is too small to be really usable, and you may wonder what you can do to make it more functional and feel less closed in.

Quick Tips to Improve a Tiny Bathroom

Here are some small bathroom ideas you can do quickly and easily to open up small bathrooms.

An obvious first step is to organize and reduce the clutter that can make the small space feel overwhelming. You won’t feel so much like you are in very tight quarters if the amount of stuff is minimalized.

Repainting with light, neutral colours quickly makes your small bathroom feel like a larger space. You don’t need to forgo personality; you can have a couple of items in interesting materials, with bold colours or patterns to make the entire bathroom incredibly chic and provide visual interest. However, dark walls make small spaces feel heavy and closed in. White subway tile is perfect for backsplashes and other areas to keep the area light.

You can still have a gallery wall for interest, but try putting up several unique mirrors. This lets you decorate the entire wall space, without feeling cluttered, and gives the illusion of a larger room.

Small Bathroom Remodel

You may find that if your small bathroom isn’t set up efficiently, a full small bathroom remodel can help you get a room you love. It’s a good idea to plan well before getting started. Drawing up a few design plans with accurate measurements of all elements is critical. It is usually good to consult with someone who is an expert in interior design.

Effective Small Bathroom Design

Don’t be afraid to move the entire room around, including fixtures.

A corner sink tucks away neatly to make the most of your small bathroom space, and a wall-mounted faucet allows more free surface area. Take time to find the right tub; look for a non-standard, smaller freestanding tub to conserve space.

Customized work allows you to get the best fit. Smaller cabinets and vanities can balance the need for room and storage perfectly if they are designed to maximize organization. You can also add built-in storage, for a small item like a medicine cabinet, in between wall studs.

You may also want to remove any swinging doors, replacing them with rolling pocket doors or sliding barn doors; full-length mirrors on these brighten up a small room even more.

Increase Floor space

A floating vanity creates more air space than a traditional one sitting on the floor, and usually doesn’t decrease usable storage. Many people don’t use the bottom shelves or drawers of a vanity much, and some typical vanities are just cupboards with one layer to use, resulting in lots of wasted space. A floating model, with multiple-sized drawers and a good design, can give you extra storage space, with increased space and a lighter, airier feeling. Toilet paper and hygiene items can be kept attractively in large baskets and tucked away.

Light-coloured floor tile gives a sensation of space, compared to a dark wood floor.

Increase Natural Light

A few floating shelves achieve the same results as floating vanities. If you opt for a glass shelf model, it especially keeps the open feeling of the room and doesn’t create dark spots. A floating shelf holds your extra toiletries without cluttering.

Replace a shower with solid plastic or metal sides and a shower curtain or opaque shower doors. With a shower stall with a glass shower door and clear sides, you won’t feel like you are in a cave when you shower.

If you have little to no natural light, installing a skylight may be a good option. Otherwise, capitalizing on light fixtures is key; choose ones that will really brighten all corners of the room.

Powder Room / Half-Bathroom

A half-bathroom is often considered as an unimportant one, but you use them daily, and want to make a good impression when guests are visiting. A cramped powder room feels depressing – not how you want to feel when starting your day! So how do you primp up your small powder room to make the room feel spacious?

A minimalist bathroom is your go-to design for as much extra space as possible. Keeping to essentials only, with a couple of key decorative accents, will make the most of the room.

Try a pedestal sink, as these don’t cut into a room. Clear out all extra items, and just have key, attractive toiletries out. Instead of a towel bar, look for small hooks or racks that rotate out to conserve space.

Don’t be afraid to use the toilet tank for more surface space for items.

Need Help With a Remodel?

Honest Renovations understands that the humble bathroom is actually one of the most important in your home.

Whether you need small upgrades or a complete small-bathroom remodel, we are experienced in all parts of the job and make the renovations hassle-free. We are industry experts and will assist you through the whole process, from design to renovation and finishing touches.

We can advise on the best small bathroom ideas for your individual situation, working with you to bring your visions to life. 

 

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How Much Do Home Additions Cost?

Many people resort to home additions to add rooms because they feel cramped in their homes and need extra living space. Their wish for a larger space can come true with a home addition project managed by a general contractor. Home additions come in various sizes and types, and there is an overwhelming number of home addition costs to calculate roughly.

If you’re thinking of creating an expansion to your home, you’ll need to read this home addition cost breakdown.

Average Home Addition Cost

Construction costs will depend on your existing home structure and what you’d like to build. Some additions won’t even need another room, like converting a garage.

The average cost for home addition or adding a room is $46,000, with most homeowners spending between $21,000 and $74,000.

How Much Do Home Additions Cost Per Square Foot?

Home additions cost between $85 and $400 per square foot, with most spending $80 to $200 per square foot on the first floor and $100 to $300 per square foot on the second floor. The project cost will vary greatly depending on material prices, labor costs, and location.

Factors That Influence The Cost Of A Home Extension Project

It isn’t easy to pinpoint exact costs when it comes to a home addition project, for many factors will affect the total project cost.

First off, the level of intricacy of the construction project will have a significant influence on the final cost and can raise or lessen the total expense. Include other costs, like applying a new foundation, insulation, and site preparation. The building materials you’ll utilize and the existing materials will also add to the overall costs.

In addition, your home addition cost could increase based on the building permits you acquire and conforming to specific local building codes. Water drainage, septic systems, and electrical wiring are just some features that might be monitored. A qualified local builder will be able to advise you regarding the prerequisites in your area.

Common Types Of Room Addition

Many homeowners want to add an extra room to their homes. And this can be executed on the ground floor or the second story. Room addition costs are primarily based on the type of room being constructed.

Take into account that unexpected costs will arise suddenly. Allocate an extra 10%-20% in case you come across circumstances demanding additional costs.

Living Room / Family Room

The typical range for a living room is $20,000 to $45,000, with the higher-end usually consisting of custom built-in cabinets or expensive flooring. Expanded living rooms provide more space for families and friends to gather.

Bathroom

A new bathroom addition costs around $35,000. Bathrooms are pricier as they need plumbing work and bathroom fixtures like toilets and showers. Some homeowners decide to splurge on a jacuzzi tub, influencing the overall price.

Master Bedroom

Adding a new master bedroom suite can cost between $59,000 and $100,000 and up. Considering it often has an attached bathroom and walk-in closet, master bedroom addition costs can quickly surge.

Attic

Most homeowners spend from $40,000 to $80,000 to convert an attic into a cozy room. This reconstruction requires owners to have sufficient ventilation and insulation for livable permanent use. Not to mention the installation costs for a staircase in this room.

In-Law Suite Addition Costs

In-law suites are often around 600 to 750 square feet, costing between $78,000 and $135,000, with an average cost of $90,000. The In-law suite includes one bedroom and bathroom, a small living room, a kitchenette, a laundry room, and maybe some storage.

Second story

Adding a second floor to your home is like constructing a whole house from square one. The cost can range from $300 to $500 per square foot since it requires removing and replacing the existing roof. The total expense can quickly jump into six figures depending on how many rooms are being constructed.

Garage

For a simple garage addition, expect to pay around $10,800. Usually, the larger the square footage, the less it will cost. An attached garage is more affordable; however, if you need to build a detached garage, expect to pay roughly $13,200 – $24,200.

Get Reliable Cost Estimates From Honest Renovations

Rather than making guesswork at the approximate total cost of the home addition you intend to build, call Honest Renovations.

A great way to save money is to hire a professional contractor. Honest Renovations has the expertise and professional connections to reduce your costs. We start the process by scheduling a thorough phone discussion. We’ll examine the specifics of your current home and what type of addition you’re considering. We will also check out your property to assess the extra space and landscape we will be transforming.

We will provide an approximate quote for your specific home addition projects. Call us now or fill in the form, and you will receive estimates from trusted experts.

When Do You Need A Permit For Home Renovations

Two home renovation consultants having board room discussion

If you’re considering remodelling a room by changing the windows and doors to make it more appealing, you’re probably wondering if you need a building permit. Or, perhaps, you want to reconstruct your living room into a modern, comfortable gathering space by adding square footage, but do you need a permit for that too? 

Most homeowners don’t have the slightest knowledge of building permits and sometimes they think they don’t require one when working with considerable upgrades to their home like building an addition. In reality, any home renovation projects, including DIYs, require a permit. Completing the project without the proper permit can lead to drastic consequences.

Here’s what you must understand about permits before starting your renovation project.

What Is A Building Permit?

A building permit is a formal document from the City of Hamilton that authorizes you to begin construction, demolition, addition, or renovation on your property. Your home project must meet the objectives such as health, fire protection, accessibility, resource conservation, and other standards listed in the building code.

You can get a building permit application and other permit forms from your local building department within your municipality or by visiting the ePLANS page for printable forms. Submit the application to your municipality’s permit office, not the provincial government.

Along with your application, you must include:

  • Application permit fee
  • A scale floor plan
  • Detailed construction drawings
  • Site survey

As part of the building permit process, the Hamilton Building Permit Department will review your plans and drawings to confirm that the projected work observes the Ontario Building Code Requirements, local zoning bylaw, and other applicable laws.

After reviewing your proposal, you’ll need a zoning adjustment. If the proposed project doesn’t comply with the building code, a permit will not be issued until the necessary adaption is made. If it complies with all applicable laws and building requirements, typically it’ll only take from 1-3 weeks to be issued.

Aside from the building permit, you may also need a few of the following permits:

  • Electrical permits
  • Plumbing permits
  • Gas permits
  • Ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) permits
  • Demolition permits
  • Sign variance permits

Sturdy hammer resting on nail-covered wooden board

Which Home Improvements Require Permits?

Generally, under the Building Code Act, you will be mandated to have a permit to start construction that involves changes to the structure or systems of your home. 

    • Construction of a new building over ten square meters
    • Renovations, repairs, or additions to an existing building
    • Second or third-story additions
    • Drywall repairs to fire separations in multi-unit residential buildings
    • Attach garages, carports
    • Sunrooms
    • Solariums, porches, decks
    • Finishing or partially finishing a basement or other spaces
    • Structural or material alterations (i.e., new bathroom)
    • Installing or modifying heating or plumbing systems
    • Doing electrical work
    • Excavating and/or constructing foundations
    • Basement underpinning
    • Constructing a basement entrance
    • Adding a secondary suite to an existing house
    • Structural or material alterations
    • Adding or removing walls (non-load bearing and load-bearing walls)
    • Adding new windows or doors where there were none before
    • Enlarging or relocating existing windows or doors
    • Enclosing an existing deck, porch, or patio of any size
    • Changing the use of a building (from residential to office or single dwelling unit house to multi-dwelling unit house)
    • Installation, replacement, or repairs of a private sewage system 

Construction Projects That Don’t Require A Permit

The following are some renovations that don’t need any formal documents and aren’t liable to the provisions of the building code (provided they don’t entail changes to structures or systems of the house):

      • Re-roofing
      • Adding or replacing insulation
      • Painting
      • Re-cladding exterior walls
      • Re-siding
      • Installing flooring
      • Installing bathroom or kitchen cabinets
      • Replacing of windows and doors (provided the opening is not enlarged)
      • Replacing existing plumbing fixtures in the same location

Consult with your remodelling contractor, or contact your municipal building permit office to determine if you need such a document.

Why Is A Permit Necessary?

Although arranging an authorization may appear inconvenient, this document exists for your safety and anyone on or around your property.

When you or your contractor don’t hold a permit for a project that has already begun and it appears you require a permit for that development, you will then be issued with a “stop work” order and be charged a fine. This will cause a delay in the renovating process until you acquire a permit.

If hazards are discovered within the framework against the safety codes, you might be instructed to redo it at your own expense or be told to stop the new structure completely. After that, when filing an insurance claim, you may even face future financial or legal issues.

Team of Hamilton renovation professionals smiling in full uniform

Need A Professional Help For Your Home Renovation Project?

If figuring out which proper permits you ought to have for your renovation project and complying with the necessary measures seems like a hassle, hire a professional contractor knowledgeable about Hamilton building permits such as Honest Renovations.

Our job is not only to ensure you have a final space that looks and feels spectacular but also to ensure your project follows municipal and provincial requirements. If you’re still undecided about remodelling your home, our team can present the best plan based on your finances.

 

 

The Best Paint Colours For An Office Renovation

Office Renovation pain color 1

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many staff have taken to working from their home offices. But now, as it comes time to close the home office for good and return to the office, your office needs to be better than ever.

Many companies need to consider renovating their office spaces to create a functional and comfortable place that their employees enjoy. Employee satisfaction is more important than ever before, and your office space plays a huge role in retaining your employees.

A large part of making your office a comfortable space is the paint colour. Paint can transform your space and set a tone for the entire office. It is vital that you select a paint colour that will look beautiful and boost the energy level and mood of your staff.

Why Painting Is Important

According to psychologist Angela Wright, colours affect our moods. Different colours can evoke feelings like happiness, anger, calmness, and more. Some colours are even known to increase oxygen supply to the brain and lower our blood pressure.

The atmosphere of your office is a huge factor in your employees’ productivity, focus, and creativity. You need to select a paint colour that will help your staff stay focused, on task and performing their best.

7 Colours To Paint Your Office Walls For Productivity

We have selected seven paint colours that will brighten your office and boost the mood and productivity of your staff. Keep reading below to determine what colour you should paint your office.

1. Light Blue

Blue is known to keep the mind sharp and focused. It is like a breath of fresh air in your office!

If you want to keep your employees feeling refreshed, focused, and on top of their work, you should choose light blue for your office walls. Pastel blue hues will keep your staff sharp and their energy levels up.

Unsure about pastel blue? Try painting your office blue-grays. The grey tones will balance out the blue and make it feel more neutral. Despite this, you will still get added productivity and focus.

2. Forest Green

Do you work in a fast-paced, high-stress industry like the financial industry? If so, green may be the colour for your office walls, not just because it is associated with wealth.

According to Angela Wright’s colour theory, green projects feelings of balance, calm, and reassurance. It will help relax employees and help them feel centred without diminishing work productivity.

Dark green like Forest Edge by Behr will be the perfect backdrop for your office space.

3. Yellow

According to Angela Wright, yellow evokes feelings of happiness; it can brighten spirits and make people feel more creative, making it the ideal colour for creative industries.

We suggest that companies in marketing, design and other creative areas paint their office space pastel yellow to inspire their employees. A pastel hue will still offer the benefits of the colour without creating a bright, tacky room.

4. Orange

Orange is a powerful colour that has both the happiness of yellow and the energy of red. It will help you create a comfortable and productive workspace for yourself and your employees.

We recommend using orange for an accent wall because it will brighten the room without being overpowering.

5. Teal Blue

Teal is a combination of darker shades of deep blue and green, thus offering the benefits of both colours. For example, a fresh coat of blue paint can help boost work performance by keeping the mind sharp. On the other hand, Green will offer a sense of balance to your office.

By playing around with different hues, you can get the benefit of two colours at once.

6. Off White

White does not have to be boring! An off-white or eggshell white creates a sleek, clean look for your office space without feeling cold and bland. White walls also provide the perfect blank slate for colourful artwork and decor—the exact things that will give your office setting personality.

7. Light Gray

Gray can have a similar effect as white when it is done correctly.

A light gray can brighten office spaces while still feeling warm and professional. It will not feel blank either, which you risk when choosing white paint.

We recommend Silver Mist by Benjamin Moore for your office. The bright hue of the paint will keep your space light and airy, mainly thanks to its gloss finish.

Make sure to steer away from dark gray because it could make the space feel dark and melancholy.

Is It Worth Renovating Before Selling?

Home Renovation

You may be ready to pack your things and sell your property, however, the moment you inspect your house, it may not look so winsome and marketable. Although it might have gone through minor restorations from post to pillar, generally, your house requires some tedious upgrading. You might not consider the state of your home until you think of moving out – but what’s best? There are several things to consider before making a decision.

What Do Buyers Really Want?

When you’ve decided to sell your home, your selling strategy should be based on which type of homeowners you’re targeting. Are you seeking to focus on those who need a move-in-ready place, or are you targeting people who want a fixer-upper home?

You have to construct plans based on your:

    • Timeline
    • Budget
    • Listing price intent

For buyers wanting to overhaul their own homes, saving money is the primary determinant. And, many who like to update or fix up the property simply find pleasure in beautifying their home.

 

Benefits Of Renovating Your House

Before we brood over what renovation plans are best, it’s essential to understand why you’d need to renovate your house in the first place. Making amendments you can treasure for the next several years is one thing; however, spending money on renovations directly before moving out is another.

When you opt for the correct renovation project, your house value can double and draw more potential buyers. When more people dote on your home, you can anticipate more deals, resulting in a much higher sale price.

Factors To Consider

State Of The Real Estate Market

Homes that sit on the market, even for a few days in a hot market, earn many offers and even bidding clashes. You can often escape fewer fixes in a seller’s market before selling, but a home that requires mending will still offer a lower value in any market. In a slow housing market, buyers might not even burden themselves with viewing a home that requires work.

Real Estate Agents As A Resource

It’s essential to hire a local real estate agent who has expertise in selling homes and, primarily, in your residential area. Homes in your suburb listed in the same price bracket must be the benchmark by which you raise your own home. Suppose these homes have elements and luxuries that yours doesn’t; this could suggest the necessity for certain renovations. A real estate agent must be able to give a comparative market analysis which will help you gain insight into whether your property delivers more (or less) than equally established homes.

Timeline For Remodeling Project

Your home remodel projects will take longer than predicted, so be ready and provide what is needed to prevent frustration. For example, replacing the old flooring can take a few days, but a decking installation can take several weeks.

Plan out your short-term and long-term renovation projects. Short-term home improvements could only take a few days to complete (e.g. painting a room), while long-term endeavours (e.g. a complete kitchen remodel) could require hiring a contractor over several weeks. Likewise, you mustn’t expect to include your fixer-upper property for the same value as the squeaky-clean, move-in-ready home.

Be practical about the renovation procedure and timeline and choose your new upgrades before discarding the existing materials. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each remodel option and decide appropriately.

Return On Investment

Will you earn any money back from it at the date of selling? It’s essential to remember the cost vs. value philosophy as to renovations.

Some repairs and modifications will bear more fruit than others; thus, higher return on investment (ROI) regarding resale and property value. More extensive refurbishments are not always better as paying more does not guarantee a higher value yield. Home prices are likely to correspond to local home buyer preferences and the price they’re willing to pay.

What Home Renovations Are Worth Doing Before Selling?

Although you’re thinking of renovating your home, you still have to work on some obvious repairs and upgrades. Remember that renovations must be able to hold off market changes and an array of preferences. You may not gain more money, but it’ll make a difference. If you don’t provide obvious repairs or upgrades, you may need to lower your selling price. We’ve listed some renovations we’d recommend you address before selling your property:

General Repairs

General repairs involve revamping anything that has been destroyed or damaged. When a potential buyer explores your home and sees anything damaged, they interpret that the house is inadequately kept. Likewise, first-time buyers lack some knowledge about home repairs to pinpoint if something’s major or minor.

Replacing or refinishing your flooring and painting the walls are the fastest and most affordable ways to restore a house. However, don’t cover hardwood floors with new carpeting. Another good investment is finishing a basement as it will yield a higher ROI.

Adding a new roof, replacing a damaged roof, and renovating old outlets will enable you to carry on the sale of your home. During review and appraisal, having those upgrades done will boost the home value and lower the probability of being obliged to make repairs or revise pricing later in the process.

Kitchen

Kitchen renovations are critical because that space is a gathering place and a strong selling point in any home. An old or gruesome kitchen can destroy a home sale. While this doesn’t suggest you invest in luxury appliances, a minor kitchen remodel might be profitable, like replacing outdated cabinets and countertops.

Bathrooms

The bathroom is generally one of the smallest areas in the house, though its value is higher than most homeowners would assume. It’s where most buyers can picture prepping for the day and relaxing at night. An outdated, leaky faucet or standard showerhead will dissuade potential owners. Replace these old fixtures with modern ones. If there is ample space, consider placing dual sinks – a focal point buyers love in a bathroom that they’re sharing with their family members.

DIY Projects To Increase Profit

A do-it-yourself plan can help save on labour expenses and improve your DIY capability. You can decide on multiple small- to mid-scale tasks with little to no help from an expert:

      • Replacing doors and windows that are leaking or letting in breezes allows you to revamp your home’s appeal and conserve on electric bills.
      • Paint makes a home appear more extensive and adequately maintained. When doing this, remember that you must use fresh paint in neutral colours like white, beige or grey since you don’t know your buyer’s taste.
      • Well-lit rooms make it easier for clients to visualize a comfortable life in your space. Have two 50W halogen bulbs for every 10 square metres as general guidance. There is no need to install beaming spotlights in every room. Opting for different lighting sources (ambient, task-specific, and accent light fixtures) based on the room’s features is invaluable.

Enhance The Exterior

71% of future homebuyers state a home’s curb appeal is a paramount factor in their purchasing decisions, and that suggests your home’s exterior has to be in the best condition.

      • Have a neat, fresh coat of paint on the front door
      • Make sure you replace old exterior lighting and add new fixtures
      • Install a new garage door
      • Replace siding and switch to a more durable roofing material
      • Add privacy fence
      • Add pops of colour with flowers and a few potted plants
      • Declutter the yard

Deep clean

Having your home deep cleaned inside and out can add incredible value. A clean property makes it easier for prospective owners to catch any structural damage or upgrades that must be fulfilled. Clean your exterior siding and interior walls. Pressure wash your gateway, sidewalk, and other pathways. You can complete the task yourself or employ professionals.

So, Should You Remodel Your Home Before Selling?

Remember to never over-renovate your home. If you need more information on renovating your property before selling it, call us and ask us about our various renovation services. Our experts promise excellent handiwork to increase the value of your home.

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The Best Flooring For Basement Bedroom

Fully-furnished basement bedroom with quirky decor and hardwood flooring

Most unfinished basements have a concrete slab as a floor. While it is solid, flat and durable, the concrete surface can be unhospitable. It is not aesthetically pleasing, nor is it warm and welcoming. In fact, your family may dread going down to the basement because of the chill of the concrete basement floor.

A finished basement floor will make any basement space warm and inviting; your family will be excited to use the downstairs bedroom once you have installed a finished surface.
There are many basement flooring materials to choose from when it comes to finishing your basement. We will discuss different flooring for basements to help you decide what is best for your home.

7 Basement Flooring Options

There are a wide variety of basement flooring options available. Each type of flooring presents its own pros and cons. We will discuss each type of basement flooring below to help you decide which is best for your basement.

1. Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a durable, affordable flooring material. It is much cheaper than ceramic tile and solid hardwood, but it can be designed to look and feel like either. Additionally, laminate floors are easy to install because the planks have interlocking joints. Almost any do-it-yourselfer can learn how to install laminate floors in their basement.

Laminate promises durability; it is a resilient flooring that is less likely to scratch than other types of flooring. However, it is prone to water damage. Laminate flooring can mould, warp, and twist in wet or moist conditions.

2. Hardwood Flooring

While hardwood is a classic choice for your floors, it is not recommended for basements. Hardwood is easily prone to water damage, and it can even warp and twist in moist environments. Basements tend to be wet and moist areas, so your hardwood floors will likely not hold up.

Never fear, there are many other flooring options for your basement renovation!

3. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is making a comeback as an affordable, durable type of flooring for basements. Except, people are ditching sheet vinyl and using vinyl planks instead.

A luxury vinyl plank is more expensive than sheet vinyl, but it will make all the difference when it comes to making a stunning space; it is a beautiful option that looks like real wood. Vinyl plank flooring also is installed like wood thanks to its interlocking joint system.

Vinyl planks are connected using an interlocking joint system; each vinyl plank slides and locks into place next to an already placed plank, making installation relatively easy. Just like real wood, vinyl should be installed over cork flooring for added cushioning.

Vinyl flooring is water-resistant, meaning you do not have to worry about your floors being ruined if you are unfortunate enough to have your basement flood.

4. Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy is a 2-part coating that can be applied over your concrete floor—it is not a floating floor option.

Expoxy helps make your floors smoother, thicker, and easier to clean. It is ideal for people who have a wet basement or want to use the main living space as a home gym. We recommend another type of flooring for a basement bedroom.

5. Tile Flooring

Tiles come in all different shapes, styles, and sizes. You could opt for the traditional square tile or choose a modern hexagon option. Rather than using one colour tile for your entire floor, you could create a pattern with several colours mixed in. The options are truly endless when it comes to tile!

While a tile floor is a beautiful addition to your home, it can be expensive. Ceramic tile can be costly, ranging anywhere from $0.50 to $25 per square foot. If you are concerned about the cost of your basement floors, ceramic tile may not be the best option. Choose vinyl tile or interlocking rubber tiles for a more affordable option. Vinyl tile costs approximately $1 to $5 per square foot.

6. Carpet

Basements can be cold places. Heat rises, and having a tile or wood floor can make your downstairs family room feel colder. Wall-to-wall carpeting is a good idea if you would like to make your basement feel warm and welcoming.

A basement carpet will feel softer and warmer underfoot than vinyl or porcelain tile. It will also muffle sound, making the space quieter; this is perfect for homeowners looking to have a guest bedroom in their basement. Guests will have a warm, quiet and cozy space to call their own.

7. Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered wood is a type of floor that has been specially engineered by bonding a layer of solid wood to plywood or compost board. Every plank has a factory-applied finish to prevent scratches and give your floor a clean, glossy appearance.

Although some manufacturers say that an engineered hardwood floor can be installed directly over concrete, our experts do not recommend it. It should be installed over a radiant heating sub floor for added warmth and a moisture barrier.

Engineered wood flooring is, without a doubt, one of the best basement flooring options out there.

Fix Your Concrete Floor

Do you have cracked, uneven, or stained concrete floors? These issues will need to be fixed before adding floating floors. Concrete flooring needs to be smoothed and levelled. Cracks in the concrete will also need to be repaired. This work is essential to creating a solid base for your new floor.

Get A Stunning Finished Basement

A basement floor is only one part of your basement renovation. Make your basement a warm, inviting space with the help of our skilled contractors at Honest Renovations. We can help you decide on a basement flooring option and install it to ensure you have a finished basement you will love!

How To Renovate Your Commercial Space After COVID

Two shoppers browsing jewelry store in Hamilton shopping mall

It’s safe to say that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every area of our lives. From grocery shopping and working out, to our daily 9-5 and nights out, we’ve really had to adjust. If your remote workforce is slowly transitioning back to your office space, some renovations will likely need to take place to minimize the spread of germs and maximize safety. The building owner and business owners can collaborate in order to reduce disease spread amongst employees by integrating specific renovations that can prevent widespread circulation.

If your commercial property is in need of a few COVID-friendly updates and office renovations, here are 3 things you might consider as you begin your reopening efforts.

1. Create Distinct Spaces To Promote Social Distancing

As offices reopen and people return to working in a building together, there will definitely be a need for more space for physically distanced “bubbles”. Creating distinct rooms might mean that you spread out cubicles, divide break areas, update your current benching systems, have separate conference rooms, and use more substantial partitions than what was used in the past.

New, enclosed spaces can ensure employees maintain proper distance and have their own space to work safely. An office renovation should see separate areas as a major focus in order to limit contact between employees. Rearranging desks, creating separate benching systems, and putting up barriers can act as a physical reminder to adhere to COVID guidelines and distancing.

The main goal for this renovation is to naturally facilitate physical distancing between employees and guests by spacing out the office.

Another space renovation that can be considered is to dedicate separate rooms for visitors, deliveries, and other guests. These rooms can help adequately spread out people and reduce outside traffic in the commercial or office space.

2. Install Hygiene Systems For A Cleaner Environment

If there’s any time to make some upgrades to your sanitation systems, it’s now. Ensuring that the air and the office environment are as clean as possible is a vital step that should be taken as you return to work. No matter what kind of commercial space you have, HVAC systems are definitely something to consider.

Upgrading HVAC systems can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in your office space. Since COVID is a virus that travels through air particles, it’s important to carefully filter the air in your commercial space so that you are breathing in and spreading clean air. Installing tools and safety equipment like HVAC systems can help curb the spread of the virus amongst office workers and can boost the health of the office.

Another consideration when it comes to office renovation is lowering high-touch surfaces. While many spaces now use automatic doors activated by buttons or sensors, there are still updates that can be done to lower the number of high touch areas in the office. This can be done by installing more motion sensors on doors, door handles, bathroom hand dryers, or faucets. For surfaces that can’t be automated, use easy-to-clean materials so that you can maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the office.

3. Upgrade Current Technology In Office Space

Boosting office health and energy doesn’t stop at hygiene and social distancing. Another renovation consideration involves upgrading your technology in order to accommodate seamless collaboration between in-person and remote workers.

The pandemic has made remote teams the new normal. With most employees working from home over the past year, it is likely that many of them will continue to do so in the coming months or even the rest of the year. In order to enhance virtual collaboration, now is the perfect time for technology in the office space to be updated.

Technology updates would include upgrading your space’s wifi connection, installing large monitors in the conference areas and moving around the other office furniture in order to make collaboration possible.

When you rearrange existing furniture, you are showing your employees that teamwork is essential and needed, regardless of where your employees are. The main goal here is to make working in teams still a reality, even if some employees are working remotely.

Honest Renovations

If you’re looking at getting your commercial or office space ready for your employees, we’ve got you covered! Based in the Hamilton area, Honest Renovations is your one-stop shop for home and office renovations. We serve clients in Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, Oakville, Mississauga, Niagara, Stoney Creek, Dundas Flamborough, and the GTA! Our team of building consultants will help you cover all your bases and aid you in overcoming any challenges these renovations might bring.