Category: Home Renovation

Ways to Save on Your Home Renovation

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Ways to Save on Your Home Renovation

Ways to Save on Your Home Renovation

Renovating your home can be a thrilling yet daunting task, especially when managing a budget and focusing on areas like the kitchen, basement, bedroom, and bathroom. Fortunately, with strategic planning and smart choices, you can achieve your dream renovation without breaking the bank. Here are some practical ways to save on your home renovation:

1. Increase Efficiency

Optimizing the efficiency of your space is a cost-effective way to improve functionality without the need for extensive structural changes. In the kitchen, consider installing pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or other organizers to maximize storage. For the basement renovation, think about creating multifunctional areas that serve multiple purposes, such as a combined guest room and home office.

2. Bring in Natural Light

Adding windows or skylights can be a significant expense, but there are more affordable ways to increase natural light. Consider using light tubes, which channel sunlight from your roof into your home, or using strategically placed mirrors to reflect light throughout the room. These methods are particularly useful in the basement and bathroom, where natural light might be limited.

3. Tap Your Contractor’s Sources

Experienced contractors often have access to high-quality materials at discounted prices through their network of suppliers. By partnering with a reputable contractor, you can take advantage of these savings. Ask your contractor if they can source materials like laminate flooring, recycled glass countertops, or vinyl siding at a lower cost.

4. Consult an Architect

While hiring an architect might seem like an added expense, their expertise can save you money in the long run. An architect can help you create a detailed plan that maximizes your budget and avoids costly mistakes. They can also offer innovative solutions for your renovation, ensuring that every dollar is well spent.

5. Partner With a Contractor

A good contractor is crucial to the success of your renovation. Look for a contractor who is willing to collaborate and provide cost-saving suggestions. They can help you prioritize projects, source cost-effective materials, and manage the renovation process efficiently. Establishing a clear line of communication with your contractor will ensure that your vision is realized within your budget.

Cost-Effective Materials

Choosing the right materials can significantly impact your renovation costs. Here are some cost-effective options to consider for your renovation:

  • Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is a durable and affordable alternative to hardwood. It offers a wide range of styles and finishes, making it easy to find a look that suits your home.
  • Recycled Glass Countertops: These countertops are not only eco-friendly but also budget-friendly. They offer a unique and modern look, perfect for the kitchen or bathroom.
  • Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is a cost-effective material for updating the exterior of your home. It requires minimal maintenance and comes in various colors and textures, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic without a hefty price tag.

Renovating your home on a budget is entirely achievable with careful planning and smart decisions. By increasing efficiency, bringing in natural light, tapping into your contractor’s sources, consulting an architect, and partnering with a reliable contractor, you can create a beautiful and functional space without overspending. Additionally, choosing cost-effective materials like laminate flooring, recycled glass countertops, and vinyl siding will help you stay within budget while delivering stunning results.

Best Kitchen Flooring Options To Consider For Your Remodel

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Best Kitchen Flooring Options To Consider For Your Remodel

Best Kitchen Flooring Options To Consider For Your Remodel

Are you contemplating a kitchen remodel and feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of flooring options available? The kitchen is the heart of the home, and choosing the right flooring is essential to ensure it’s both functional and stylish. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to some of the best kitchen flooring options.

Tile Flooring

Tile flooring is a classic choice for kitchens, beloved for its durability and versatility. Available in ceramic, porcelain, and stone, tiles can fit almost any design theme from rustic to modern.

Pros:

  • Durability: Tile is hard-wearing and can withstand high traffic.
  • Water-Resistant: It is impervious to water and staining, making it ideal for spill-prone areas.
  • Variety: A vast selection of colors, patterns, and sizes is available.

Cons:

  • Hardness: Tile can be tough on your feet when standing for long periods.
  • Cold Surface: It can be chilly underfoot, which might require rugs or heated flooring systems for comfort.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood offers a warm, classic appearance that never goes out of style. Its timeless appeal can also add value to your home.

Pros:

  • Aesthetically Pleasing: Adds a natural, cozy warmth to any kitchen design.
  • Longevity: Can last for decades if properly maintained.
  • Refinishing: Unlike some other options, hardwood can be sanded down and refinished several times to remove scratches or dents.

Cons:

  • Cost: Generally more expensive than other flooring options.
  • Maintenance: Prone to water damage and requires regular maintenance.
  • Susceptibility to Damage: Can be scratched or dented by heavy foot traffic or dropped items.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly alternative that mimics hardwood or tile. Modern laminate can offer stunning visuals and enhanced durability.

Pros:

  • Affordable: Less expensive than hardwood or high-end tile.
  • Easy Installation: Floating floor systems are DIY-friendly.
  • Low Maintenance: Resistant to stains and easy to clean.

Cons:

  • Water Damage: Not as resistant to moisture as tile, which can be problematic in a kitchen setting.
  • Repair: Scratches and dents may be hard to repair; often, damaged planks require replacement.

Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Kitchen

When narrowing down your choices, consider the following:

  • Lifestyle: Think about your household’s activity level. Do you have children or pets? Is there a lot of cooking and foot traffic in your kitchen?
  • Budget: Factor in the cost of materials and installation. Remember that investing in durable flooring can save money in the long run.
  • Climate: If you live in a region with a colder climate, tile might not be the most comfortable option unless you’re considering installing underfloor heating.
  • Aesthetics: Choose flooring that complements the overall design of your kitchen. You want a floor that supports your vision, not competes with it.

Your kitchen flooring choice is a balance between aesthetics, comfort, and practicality. Whether you lean towards the elegance of tile, the warmth of hardwood, or the convenience of laminate, each material offers its unique blend of benefits for your kitchen remodel.

How To Hire a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor: The Ultimate Guide for Homeowners

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Kitchen renovation Vancouver

How To Hire a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Renovating the heart of your home is a monumental undertaking. Your vision of a modern, functional kitchen, perfectly tailored to your needs, can quickly become mired in the complexity of design choices and finding the right professionals. This exhaustive guide is your roadmap to navigate the renovation journey and hire the contractor who will bring your dream kitchen to life.

Renovating your kitchen is not just about creating a stylish space or increasing your home’s value—it’s about enhancing the functionality and comfort of your daily life. This blog post is not a superficial glance at the process; rather, it’s an in-depth exploration to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on this transformative project.

How Much Does a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor Cost?

Understanding the cost implications is paramount, yet it’s often the murkiest part of the renovation process. A kitchen remodel is a significant investment, with the average cost ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, and high-end projects exceeding $100,000. The vast cost spectrum is influenced by various factors:

Factors Affecting Remodeling Costs

  • Size of the Kitchen: The larger your kitchen, the more materials and labor will be required, which translates to a higher cost.
  • Quality of Materials: From basic to luxury materials, your choices influence the budget immensely.
  • Resale Value: If you’re renovating with an eye on selling, you might choose different, more cost-effective elements than if you’re planning to live with the results for a long time.
  • Geographic Location: Labor and material costs vary across different areas. Urban centers often command a higher price.

Deciphering the Bids

When you begin to gather quotes from general contractors, it’s important to understand what’s included and have a clear idea of where you can make concessions. A good rule of thumb is getting at least three quotes that you can compare based on:

  • Itemized Breakdown: Ensure that the quoted price details every aspect of the renovation, from demolition to installation.
  • Inclusions and Exclusions: Some quotes may appear cheaper, but they might exclude vital services like electrical rewiring or plumbing.
  • Timeline: While not a direct monetary factor, a longer timeline can indirectly drive up costs if it means you’ll be without a functional kitchen for an extended period.

Questions To Ask a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Hiring the right contractor depends on the questions you ask. This isn’t just about qualifications; it’s also about ensuring that their approach and style resonate with yours.

Essential Queries

  • Are You Licensed and Insured? A contractor should hold the appropriate licenses and have insurance, including liability and workers’ compensation, to protect you and their employees.
  • Do You Have References? Any reputable contractor should be able to provide a portfolio of past renovations and a list of satisfied clients.
  • What Is Your Process? Understanding how a contractor approaches a project helps set expectations for the timeline and your involvement.
  • Can You Provide a Detailed Estimate? Clear estimates should include all costs, like materials, labor, permits, and potential overages that might occur during the project.
  • Will There Be a Project Manager? Communication is key, and a dedicated project manager can streamline the process by being your single point of contact.

Kitchen Remodeling Contractor Qualifications

Beyond the interview, verifying a contractor’s credentials will save you headaches down the line. The following are critical qualifications when evaluating potential contractors:

Certification

Look for contractors who are certified by trade organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Certification often indicates a higher level of skill and professionalism.

Experience and Portfolio

A contractor’s portfolio is the best way to gauge the quality of their work. Don’t just look at pictures; ask for addresses so you can potentially see completed renovations in person.

Satisfaction Guarantee

What happens if you’re not satisfied with the work? A solid satisfaction guarantee can provide peace of mind that your contractor is committed to achieving your vision.

The Final Selection: Navigating the Decision-Making Process

The Interview Stage

After you’ve shortlisted potential contractors, arrange face-to-face meetings. This is your chance to assess whether you can communicate effectively with this person throughout a potentially stressful process.

Verifying the Details

  • License and Insurance: Before you commit, verify the contractor’s license and insurance are current. You can also check for any complaints against the contractor with your state’s licensing board.
  • References: Reach out to the contractor’s references and ask about their experience. Were there any unexpected costs? Did the end result align with expectations?
  • Legalities: A good contract protects both parties. Ensure it includes details such as the project timeline, payment schedule, and responsibilities if something goes wrong.

Trust Your Gut

Ultimately, the decision will often come down to more than just the numbers and qualifications—it’s about who you feel most comfortable working with. Trust your instincts and choose the contractor who makes you feel confident that your dream kitchen is within reach.

Hiring a contractor for your kitchen renovation is a milestone in your journey to creating a space that mirrors your taste and supports your lifestyle. It’s a substantial investment, both financially and emotionally, and choosing the right professional is critical to its success.

With thorough research, meticulous vetting, and clear communication, you can hire a contractor who will not only transform your kitchen but also enhance your home life. Remember, the perfect kitchen isn’t just about the physical space—it’s about the journey you take to get there. So start your journey by taking these insights to heart, and soon enough, you’ll be cooking in the kitchen of your dreams.

Guide to Financing Options for home renovation in Vancouver, BC

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Guide to Financing Options for home renovation in Vancouver, BC

Guide to Financing Options for home renovation in Vancouver, BC

Embarking on a home renovation project in Vancouver can be an exciting yet financially challenging endeavor. Whether you’re looking to revamp your kitchen, upgrade your bathroom, or add extra living space, understanding the financing options available is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll explore various ways to finance your home renovation in Vancouver, helping you make informed decisions to turn your renovation dreams into reality.

Home Equity Loans: Tapping into Your Home’s Value

Home equity loans allow you to borrow against the equity you’ve built in your home. In Vancouver’s real estate market, where property values have seen significant appreciation, this option can provide substantial funds for your renovation. Learn about the advantages and considerations when opting for a home equity loan.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Flexible Financing Solutions

A HELOC offers a flexible line of credit based on your home’s equity. This revolving credit line allows you to borrow as needed, making it a suitable option for ongoing renovations or unpredictable project costs. Understand the terms, interest rates, and potential risks associated with a HELOC in the Vancouver context.

Personal Loans: Unsecured Financing for Your Project

Personal loans, while unsecured, can be a viable option for smaller home renovations. Explore the possibilities of obtaining a personal loan from a local Vancouver lender, considering interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria.

Government Grants and Rebates: Boosting Your Renovation Budget

Investigate the various government incentives available for home renovations in Vancouver. These may include grants, rebates, or tax credits aimed at promoting energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. Discover how these financial incentives can contribute to your overall renovation budget.

Vendor Financing: Working with Contractors and Suppliers

Some contractors and suppliers in Vancouver offer financing options for their services or products. Explore the pros and cons of vendor financing, and ensure transparency in terms of interest rates and repayment schedules before committing to this arrangement.

Credit Cards: A Short-Term Solution with Caution

While credit cards can provide immediate access to funds, it’s crucial to approach this option with caution. Understand the potential high-interest rates and short-term nature of credit card financing for home renovations.

Before diving into your home renovation in Vancouver, take the time to assess your financial situation and explore the various financing options available. Whether through home equity, personal loans, government incentives, or vendor financing, making informed choices will help ensure a successful and stress-free renovation experience in this vibrant city.

Cost of basement renovation in Vancouver

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
Cost of basement renovation in Vancouver

Renovating a basement can add value and space to your home, but it’s important to understand the costs involved. This is especially important if you live in Vancouver where the cost of living is high. In this blog post, we’ll break down the average cost of renovating a basement in Vancouver and what factors impact the cost.

Size Matters

Did you know that the renovation cost for a basement is largely determined by its size? The larger your basement, the more expensive it will be to remodel. Small basement renovation projects, say 500 sq ft, can cost you around $30,000 to $50,000, But larger spaces can cost anywhere from $60,000 to $150,000 and above. The type of renovation you want will also affect costs.

Structural Changes Costs

If you plan on making structural changes like adding extra walls and ceiling height to give the space the look you want, that will raise the cost of renovation. On average, contracting a structural engineer to help you is an added cost of about $2,000 – $3,000 or more depending on the extent of the work. Also, if you want to relocate your plumbing and electrical systems, this could cost you additional $$.

Materials and Labour costs

The cost of materials and labour are also common factors that affect the cost of renovating your basement. For materials, you might consider the flooring, drywall, ceiling, electrical fixtures, and painting among others. Depending on your personal taste and choices, the cost of materials you select can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more. The labour costs vary depending on the work involved, but one can budget an estimated average of $75- 150 per hour per worker.

Permits and Inspection Costs

Vancouver requires one to apply for permits before starting any renovation work, and the cost varies depending on the type of permit and scope of your renovation. A permit can range anywhere from $350- $3,000 or more. Also, when the renovation is complete, a local inspector will come to inspect the work for code compliance. These inspections will also cost you, averaging $500 – $1,200.

Final Clean-up Costs

After completing your basement renovation, you’ll need a cleaning company to do a thorough post-renovation cleanup. This final step makes sure all the debris is cleared up and your space is prepared and ready for use. Final clean-up costs will depend on the size of your renovated basement, and a company may charge you anywhere from $500 – $3,000.

Renovating your basement can be a great investment. However, the cost of a renovation can vary depending on factors such as size, materials chosen, and structural changes. In Vancouver, the cost of living is high, and the cost of renovating could be costly. As such, it’s important to plan your budget wisely, getting opinions from multiple contractors, so you get value for money. Remember that when renovating, it’s important to consider things like fire safety, structural integrity, and to get proper permits as the city of Vancouver has strict guidelines on renovations.

How to Choose the Best General Contractor for Your Home

Posted on by Canadoo Admin
How to Choose the Best General Contractor for Your Home

Home renovation or construction project can be the most daunting and overwhelming task to tackle. Choosing the best general contractor to handle your project is the most crucial decision you can make to ensure that the job is done professionally and on schedule. However, finding a professional general contractor who can breathe life into your vision can be challenging. So, how do you go about selecting the best contractor for your project? In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when hiring one.

1) Verify Credentials and License

The first step to finding a reliable general contractor is ensuring that they have a valid license. A licensee general contractor has the required training, knowledge, and experience to deliver on the job they have been contracted to do. Additionally, ensuring that the general contractor you are working with is licensed protects you from uninsured accidents or injuries that may occur on your property. Ask for their license number and contact the relevant authorities to verify their legality.

2) Experience and Expertise

Your ideal general contractor should have several years of experience working on similar projects to yours. They should also have specific expertise and not handle everything from roofing to plumbing. A specialized contractor will be most effective in delivering your project outcome. Check through the contractor’s website or portfolio to get an idea of the type of projects they have previously handled. You can also ask for references and their previous clients’ contacts to get an insight into their work.

3) Insurance Protection

Accidents and damages to property happen during construction projects. Therefore, your general contractor should have the necessary insurance covers to protect against such occurrences. Ensure that they have liability insurance and their workers’ compensation insurance to avoid incurring any liability for unforeseen events.

4) Communication

Construction projects involve several parties, including contractors, subcontractors, the homeowner, and the project managers. These parties should have clear channels of communication to ensure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently. Choose a general contractor that is available, approachable, and responsive to your inquiries. They should have the ability to communicate the progress of the project, have change-order procedures, and provide progress reports.

5) Pricing and Payment Terms

Choose a general contractor that offers a reasonable and detailed contract outlining the breakdown of cost and payment schedule. Some contractors may provide upfront quotes that do not cover everything that would be encountered during the project, resulting in hidden costs. Ensure that the contractor you hire offers transparent pricing, so ask them to give you an itemized list that includes materials and labor. Additionally, make sure that the payment terms are reasonable and provide for paying after completion of specific project milestones.

Choosing the best general contractor for your home construction or renovation project shouldn’t be a difficult task. By following the above essential factors to consider when hiring a general contractor, you can make an informed and satisfactory choice. Ensure that you conduct a background check and obtain references before hiring them. Consider checking with your local Building and Safety department to confirm permits for past work completed by the contractor. With these tips, your home renovation or construction project will be a success!

How Much Does a Full House Renovation Cost in Vancouver?

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How Much Does a Full House Renovation Cost in Vancouver?

Undertaking a full house renovation is an exciting yet significant endeavor that can breathe new life into your home, enhance its functionality, and increase its value. However, one of the most common questions that homeowners in Vancouver ask is, “How much does a full house renovation cost?” The answer to this question is multifaceted, as the cost of a renovation project can vary widely based on several factors. In this blog post, we will explore the key considerations that influence the cost of a full house renovation in Vancouver, helping you gain a better understanding of the potential expenses involved.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Full House Renovation

1. **Size and Scope of the Project:** The size of your house and the extent of the renovation will play a crucial role in determining the overall cost. A larger house or a more extensive renovation involving multiple rooms, structural changes, or additions will naturally incur higher expenses.

2. **Materials and Finishes:** The quality of materials and finishes you choose will significantly impact the cost. High-end materials, such as hardwood flooring, premium cabinetry, and designer fixtures, will be more expensive than standard alternatives.

3. **Labor Costs:** Labor costs, including skilled tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and painters, are a significant part of the renovation budget. The complexity of the work and the local labor market conditions will influence these costs.

4. **Design and Architectural Services:** If your renovation project requires architectural and design services, such as creating detailed plans, obtaining permits, and ensuring compliance with building codes, these professional fees will contribute to the overall cost.

5. **Structural Changes:** If your renovation involves structural modifications like removing walls or adding load-bearing beams, the costs can rise due to the engineering expertise and additional construction work required.

6. **Permits and Fees:** Obtaining necessary permits from the local municipality is essential for any substantial renovation project. Permit fees can vary based on the scope of the project and the city’s regulations.

7. **Location:** The cost of living and construction in Vancouver can be relatively high compared to other regions. This can impact the cost of labor, materials, and services.

8. **Unforeseen Issues:** Renovation projects can sometimes uncover unexpected challenges, such as hidden structural problems or outdated electrical systems, which may require additional funds to address.

Estimating the Cost

While it’s challenging to provide an exact figure for a full house renovation in Vancouver, a rough estimate could range from $150 to $400 per square foot. This estimate includes both the high-end and more budget-conscious options. For a more accurate estimate, consider consulting with experienced contractors or design professionals who can assess your specific needs and provide a detailed breakdown of costs.

Tips for Budgeting and Planning

1. **Define Your Priorities:** Determine which areas of your house require the most attention and allocate your budget accordingly. This will help you focus on the most essential aspects of the renovation.

2. **Obtain Multiple Quotes:** Reach out to different contractors and obtain multiple quotes to compare prices and services. Remember that the lowest quote may not always be the best choice; consider the contractor’s reputation, experience, and past work.

3. **Allocate a Contingency Fund:** Set aside a contingency fund of around 10-20% of your total budget to account for unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process.

4. **Research and Plan:** Thoroughly research the materials, fixtures, and finishes you want for your renovation. Planning ahead can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly changes later.

Embarking on a full house renovation in Vancouver can be a transformative experience that enhances your living space and adds value to your property. While the cost of such a project can vary widely based on numerous factors, understanding the key considerations outlined in this blog post will help you approach your renovation with realistic expectations and effective budgeting. Remember that investing in a well-planned renovation can lead to a more comfortable and beautiful home for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.

Top tips for kitchen renovations you need to know

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Top tips for kitchen renovations You Need to Know

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a home. It’s where we cook, eat, and gather with our family and friends. However, over time, it can start to look outdated and in need of a renovation. If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, you may feel overwhelmed and not sure where to start. With so many decisions to make, it can be challenging to know what’s important. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of tips for kitchen renovations to help guide you.

Plan your budget: One of the most crucial things to do when considering a kitchen renovation is to set a budget. This will help you decide on the materials and appliances you can afford and what changes you can make to the kitchen. You don’t want to find out halfway through your renovation that you have run out of funds. So, before you start, make sure you have a clear budget in mind.

Know the style you prefer: Next, it’s important to think about the design or style of your kitchen. Do you prefer a modern, minimalist look, or are you more drawn to a cozy, rustic style? Knowing the design you like will help you choose the right cabinets, countertops, and appliances that match your aesthetic. It’s also a good idea to look online or in magazines for inspiration.

Consider the layout: Another vital consideration is the layout of your kitchen. The layout will impact how you move around the room and can affect how functional it is. It’s a good idea to consult with a professional designer or contractor who can help you create the best layout for your space.

Focus on functionality: When renovating your kitchen, functionality should be a top priority. Consider how you use your kitchen and what your needs are. Do you need more counter space, or do you need additional storage? These requirements will help guide your renovation and will ensure that your kitchen is as functional as possible.

Invest in quality finishes: Lastly, it’s essential to invest in high-quality finishes that will stand the test of time. This includes durable countertops, reliable appliances, and long-lasting cabinets. These finishes will not only make your kitchen look beautiful but will also increase its value and lifespan.

Renovating your kitchen can be a challenging task, but with these tips in mind, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect. Remember to plan your budget, decide on the style you prefer, consider the layout, focus on functionality, and invest in quality finishes. With the right planning and execution, your kitchen renovation will turn out to be a success, and you’ll be enjoying your new space in no time.

Checklist for Replacing Your Deck

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  • Checklist for Replacing Your Deck

If your house has a deck, you are probably aware of how important that outside space is for your enjoyment of your home. A deck is a wonderful place to spend a sunny day, or entertain friends and family on a warm evening. However, because your deck is outside, it gets exposed to much more wear and tear than the inside of your home. Poor weather, sunlight, and temperature changes all affect your deck and can cause it to look shabby, or even develop dangerous weaknesses. With that in mind, we’re going to look at three things:

  • Basic maintenance to keep your deck safe and looking good
  • How to know when you need to replace your deck
  • What you need to do to prepare for replacing your deck

Basic maintenance and inspections

Let’s begin with a thorough checklist for inspecting and maintaining your deck. This should be done seasonally, as changes in temperature and the daily weather will cause damage to your deck throughout the year. During your inspection, you are looking for a few key issues: corrosion, cracks, and rot.  These are all problems that lead to safety issues for your deck.

  • Corrosion can make metal pieces weak, and they might eventually fail. It can also be a sign too much water is getting into an area.
  • Cracks can form where wood or other materials are stressed over time; make sure to be especially thorough when you check stairs, railings, and structural beams. Cracks often start to form around nail or screw heads, or knots or other weak spots in the lumber.
  • Rot causes wood to get progressively weaker, until it is no longer able to stand up to stress. If you notice nails are coming loose and working themselves out of a piece of wood, inspect that piece for rot. If you can push a screwdriver with relative ease into any wood, especially if it will go in a centimeter or more, you should replace that piece of wood. Areas of high moisture, such as where posts are close to the ground, are at high risk of rot.

Before you start to make any repairs to your deck, follow this inspection checklist:

  1. Inspect the underside of your deck: Using a flashlight, look at the underside of the deck. Make sure to check the metal flashing that attaches your deck to your home. Look for signs of water damage where your deck connects to your house.
  2. Check the joists, posts and beams: After you check the underside, check the structural parts of your deck, especially the ones out of sight. Look for signs of rot on posts and joists and check all the hardware, making note of what’s seriously rusted and needs to be replaced. Most importantly, check the bottoms of the posts where they meet the ground, and make sure there is no sign of decay in the wood; this is an area where moisture from the ground can cause a lot of problems.
  3. Check the surface: Inspect for cracks, rotting deck boards or protruding nails. Walk around the surface of the deck to listen for squeaks. Feel for soft spots or sagging areas and make note of any cracks or loose nails that need repair.
  4. Inspect the railing and stairs: Make sure your railings are sturdy, with no loose posts or slats. Inspect any stairs leading to the deck to make sure there are no loose, damaged or rotting stairs that need to be replaced.
  5. Hot tubs/jacuzzis: If you have a hot tub/jacuzzi, make sure you have inspected its area of the deck very well, and that you are also inspecting and maintaining the hot tub regularly . A hot tub is heavy! It can be dangerous if the deck underneath it is damaged. Furthermore, a leaky hot tub can cause rot from water constantly seeping into the wood around it.

Once you’ve done your inspection, you’ll need to assess if you can do repairs and maintenance to your deck, or if there are any more serious problems that mean it needs to be replaced. If the deck is in good shape, you should do the following maintenance:

  1. Replace any rotten wood and corroded metal fixtures
  2. Fix loose nails and other fasteners
  3. Clean and stain your deck – power washing can remove dirt, mold and plant growth, and insects, and regularly staining and sealing the deck is the best way to protect wood from sun and moisture.
  4. Prepare for seasonal changes – for example, if you get snow in the winter, it’s a good idea to lay a tarp over the surface of your deck to protect it from standing moisture, and/or clear the deck regularly.

Planning to replace the deck

What if, during your inspection, you realize that your deck is starting to have too much wear and tear, and it needs to be replaced? Or alternatively, it’s no longer meeting your needs and you want to upgrade it? Replacing a deck is a relatively straightforward job, but it does count as construction on your home and there are rules and standards that need to be followed. We always advise hiring a qualified contractor to do big projects such as deck replacements, but this is also a common DIY project. However you choose to proceed, make sure you plan for the following:

  • Get a building permit: Decks fall under building codes and bylaws, and you need to get a permit for the work before you start. If you don’t, you might be forced to stop work and face fines.
  • Obey building codes: A qualified contractor will always stick to building codes when designing and building your deck. Be prepared to pay for a building inspector to come and check the deck when it is finished.
  • Use the right materials: Make sure all of the lumber, fasteners, stains, and other materials being used are designed for outside use, meaning they will resist corrosion and rot better.
  • Block off the deck access: once the old deck has been removed, there is a risk of people accidentally falling from the patio door. Make sure this door is locked and secured for safety.

A deck is a wonderful feature for a family home. With care, yours can have a long useful life. Or, you can replace it with the deck of your dreams!

How Much Does it Cost to Renovate a Whole House in Vancouver?

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How much does it cost to renovate a whole house in Vancouver?

Are you thinking of selling your home, and you want to increase its value? Have you recently bought an older house that needs work? Have you been in your home for a long time, and want to update it? Do you have an investment property that you want to add value to? If you have said yes to any of these situations, you are probably thinking about renovating your house.

If you are hoping to renovate your home, it can be hard to know where to start when making plans. You are probably trying to get a rough idea of how much your renovation might cost, as a place to start. Unfortunately, it’s hard to really get a good idea of the expected costs without getting a quote from a general contractor. However, here we can discuss some general costs and ballpark numbers, so that you can have something to work with at this stage of planning. While renovating a whole house in Vancouver isn’t a cheap project, it will add value to your property, and make it more liveable for you as well. So, let’s look at some of the factors to consider.

All at once or room by room?

First of all, what is the scope of your project? Are you just interested in redoing a few rooms? Or, are you planning to make significant changes or even gut the whole house? If you are planning a lot of changes, there are pros and cons to doing the work room by room, or getting the whole house renovated at once.

Some of the advantages of doing renovations room-by-room are:

  • You can likely stay living in the house for much of the work
  • You can spread the upfront costs out over longer periods of time
  • You have time to make decisions on future projects and can see how the current project goes before taking the next step
  • You can more easily “DIY” some parts of the project without getting in the way of a contractor

Some disadvantages are:

  • Going room by room can stretch renovating over months or years. It can feel like you are renovating forever!
  • It’s likely your labour and materials costs will be at least somewhat higher than if you did everything at once
  • You won’t be able to make significant changes to layouts

Some advantages of renovating your whole house at once are:

  • You can completely rethink the layout of your house and make big changes
  • You may be able to save money on labour and materials by completing the whole project in one go
  • It will be done much faster over all

Some disadvantages are:

  • Your upfront costs will be much higher and you may have to borrow a lot more money
  • You will probably not be able to live in the house and will need to budget for other living arrangements
  • Very large renovation projects can take an emotional toll on a homeowner

If you have a large project in mind, it’s important to get quotes from several contractors to assess the expected costs for what you want to do. You can ask them to assess for “everything at once” or for the cost room by room.

House renovation costs in Vancouver

Now, as we said before, it’s hard to guess how much a home renovation project is going to cost. Especially in Vancouver, housing prices and values change quickly, and there can be a lot of competition for good contractors. Therefore, take the following information as a guideline only, to help you guess at costs.

Whole house renovations

Currently in BC, the average homeowner is spending $15-$60 per square foot on whole house renovations. However, this cost accounts for more low to midrange renovations, which generally means budget-friendly appliances and materials, and doesn’t include overhauls on more than a few rooms. People usually prioritize the kitchen and the bathrooms, and do more cosmetic work on the rest of the house, such as paint and flooring.

If you are hoping to gut your house down to the studs and do major renovations, include new roofing or exterior work, or use higher end materials and appliances, you are likely looking at a renovation that will cost you between $100,000 and $200,000 dollars. That can be an intimidating figure! However, if it adds significant value to your home, it can be worth it.

Also be aware that significant problems such as a damaged foundation, asbestos, or severe fire or flood damage will increase the costs of renovations greatly.

Finally, the amounts above assume that you are hiring a contractor to do your renovations. While you may be able to complete some renovations yourself, we strongly recommend hiring a qualified general contractor for your work. They will work faster than you and take care of details like ordering materials and getting permits, and they often can get materials at a better price. Furthermore, you will be confident that your work is up to code, and there will be a warranty on the work in case of problems down the road.

High value rooms

If you are planning on doing just parts of the work now, you may be curious about what the most expensive rooms are to renovate. Unsurprisingly, kitchens and bathrooms usually cost the most to renovate, but also will add a lot of value to your house if done well. In Vancouver, the housing market is very volatile, so having a modern, desirable home is a good idea. As a rough guess, experts suggest that you plan to invest 5-15% of your home’s value into your kitchen and bathroom renovations. Currently, houses in Vancouver are have extremely high property values, so this worth double checking with a contractor, but it’s also a very good idea to over-estimate your budget. You don’t want to be surprised by extra costs when you can’t afford it.

Renovations are rarely cheap and rarely easy. However, it’s worth it to live in a home that feels like it’s just right for you and your family, or to know that you are getting the best value for your investment. Take time to plan your projects, and take your questions to your local home renovation experts.