Tackle Your Next Home Reno With Ease

Whether you're bringing a room into this decade, or simply spicing things up, home renovations are exciting, but can be daunting if you don't start with a clear plan and focus.

Here are some suggestions to keep in mind before starting your next home reno:

Find out if you need a permit. Depending on the project, you may need a building permit before beginning work. When dealt with ahead of time, this is rarely an issue. However, it can drain time and funds mid-project if overlooked. Based on the municipality, projects requiring a permit can include: structural alterations (for example, taking down walls to open up a space, adding windows where there were none before, etc.), outdoor decks, garages, sheds, and upgrades to the plumbing system, among others. Always check before you start your project!

Focus on one room/area at a time. Trying to accomplish too much at once can overwhelm you and become discouraging. Consider starting with one of the smaller, more straightforward projects first. This will give you a sense of accomplishment upon completion and help you gain momentum for your next projects.

Do your research before hiring a contractor. If you're looking to tackle a big job, hiring a contractor may be a wise decision. To pick the best team for the job, be sure to interview a few contractors before making your decision. After the interviews, don't forget to check their references. Asking questions like: Did they arrive to the job site on time everyday? Were they professional? did they arrive to all scheduled meetings? How did they handle problems? This will give you a good sense of the type of individuals with whom you'll be working.

Consider sourcing your own materials. Sourcing your own materials can cut down immensely on the overall cost of a reno project. Rupurpose materials you already have, or consider reclaimed pieces.

The Ottawa General Contractors will be at the Ottawa Home & Garden Show, ready to answer all of your questions about your next home project. For a one-on-one consultation with the team, be sure to stop by the Ask the Expert Zone on Saturday, March 28th from 1-4pm. Consultations are first-come, first-served, so don't be late! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and get ready to start on your next home improvement project!

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When You Should & Shouldn't DIY - Tips From Jamie Banfield

Every homeowner likes to think that they are the DIY master of the renovation world, but sometimes – whether they want to admit it or not – homeowners are not as good with power tools as they think they are. It is important to know when to step back and ask for help, which is why Edmonton Renovation Show presenter Jamie Banfield of Jamie Banfield Design has given us the do’s and don’ts of bringing in an expert. Hint: spending a little extra on a designer might actually save your budget!

For The DIY Master

If you have a full vision for your renovation, if you understand products and know where you need to go, Jamie suggests bringing in a designer because they can get you discounts that you would likely never snag as a consumer.

"Designers typically will take 7-10% of what typical renovation budgets should be, but those designers can fight for discounts, know when to buy thing/when there are sales going on, and know what areas to put cash into."

Jamie also says that good designers will have contacts for trades, whether it's a dry-waller or cabinet installer. Even if you're a self-proclaimed handyperson, hiring a designer could potentially nab you some great deals on products and installation.

For The Not-So-Renovation-Savvy

If you're a renovation newbie, Jamie highly recommends bringing in a designer because they'll know what steps to take and what steps not to take in terms of how to make the most of your new space.

"Professionals can help homeowners make better choices. Designers understand the details going together. They'll know that the countertops are going to be installed on Tuesday, and the plumber is coming on Wednesday. Whereas a lot of consumers won't have that plan of attack."

Designers think of the right planning and logistical aspects of a renovation project, which is definitely something that many consumers don't really consider. If you're just getting started in the renovation world, professional help is key to saving time and money.

Overall, Jamie says the most efficient way to save your renovation budget is to put the most attention on installation. Let's say you're redoing your kitchen and you've decided the best way to save money is to install the cabinets by yourself. This could actually lead to costly mistakes and sloppy handywork.

"If you cheap out on the install you could spend $20,000 on cabinets, save $2,000 by doing the installation yourself, and the whole thing will look terrible. Or you could buy a $5,000 kitchen and spend $1,500 on the installation, and just by having it installed correctly, it'll look like a million bucks."

Calling in experts can save you money, and Jamie has a million tricks up his sleeve to help you create an elegant space on a tight budget. Check out his presentations at the Edmonton Renovation Show, January 23 - 25, to find all the tips you'll need to get started on your project!

JANUARY 23 - 25, 2015.
EDMONTON EXPO CENTRE 

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