Category - Home Renovations

Home Renovations Shop the Room!

Key Aspects to Look for When Choosing Windows and Doors in Canada

Whether it’s an old or new house, what is the first thing you notice as you walk by it for the first time? Of course, the windows and doors would draw the most attention, aside from the paintwork.

And while most homeowners find it challenging to choose the best new windows & doors for their projects, it is not really that hard.

We have studied Ecoline windows reviews and have put together the following guidelines to help you choose the best units that will keep you safe and make your home one of “the most admired” in your area.

Why Would You Want or Need New Doors or Windows?

Why would you want to replace your windows? There are a few reasons why you should think about replacing those old windows:

Durability

Even though we would all like some of our things to last forever, this is pretty much impossible. Your windows and doors will get weaker over time because of the climate, weather, and humidity. Let’s face it, these things will happen, and so will the need to change your windows and doors.

Windows With Artistic Designs

Everyone likes and wants beautiful things, and it’s hard to say no to an elegant new window design, especially when all the other homes in the neighbourhood can see it.

Photos By: Unsplash

Reduce Bills With Energy-Efficient Windows

Your home will look more modern and attractive with new windows and doors. Ecoline Windows will also last longer and wear less quickly because of better coatings and more robust frames. Also, new windows and doors are more energy efficient, so your energy bills will be lower.

Choosing New Windows and Doors for Your Home: The Right Way

Here are a few essential things to keep an eye out for as you look through your options for new windows and doors for your home:

Styles of Popular Windows and Doors

Your windows and doors may be customized in many ways. You can’t go wrong with the market’s most popular types and styles. They have already been tried and tested by many installers and Canadian homeowners, so they will perfectly match your exterior and house design.

  • The casement style is the one most people choose when it comes to windows. It’s easy to clean, saves energy, and looks classy. If you want to invest in the exterior of your house and give it a facelift, this is the window type to go for.
  • The patio is the first choice for most Canadians when it comes to doors. When you put these doors in your home, you get a clear view, easy operation, long-lasting doors, and doors that use less energy.

Materials 

When choosing new windows and doors, it’s important to understand that the materials you choose affect how they look, last, and save energy and the warranty you get from the company.

One company, for example, might only offer a lifetime warranty that can’t be transferred on their vinyl window parts. Still, their insulated glass units might only come with a limited 20-year warranty. As for the material of the frame itself, you have many choices:

  • Vinyl
  • Wood
  • Fibreglass
  • Aluminum

Vinyl is still the most popular choice, though. It’s not as expensive as wood and fibreglass, but it has a great look, is durable, and is energy efficient.

Glazing

Installing windows that aren’t Energy Star-rated is almost seen as a cardinal sin in modern construction. The climate zone, your budget, and where in the house you want the windows all factor into deciding whether you should get double or triple glazing.

But is that the only reason people want these kinds of window units? There must be more! 

In addition to saving you money, energy-efficient windows may minimize outside noise and enhance the value of your property.

In the long term, the money you save on your power bill will more than pay for the investment.

Breaking Down The Prices for Your New Windows and Doors

As you already know, getting new windows or doors is not as easy as one might think. And prices are the same. When it comes to windows and doors, this is especially true. They are pretty expensive because many homeowners think of them as an investment they will only make once. The table below shows a typical price range for the most popular products, like casement windows and patio doors, based on where they will be installed in your home.

Correct Installation

No matter how well you chose your new windows and doors and thought about how much they would cost, it would all be for nothing if they weren’t installed correctly. Even though many of us don’t like to deal with the technical details, it is still our job to ensure that our homes and any renovations align with CSA and local building codes.

Make sure your window company does the following:

  • CSA and local building codes are followed.
  • Installs only products that the NFRC and NAFS-11 have tested.
  • It offers a good warranty, just like Ecoline Windows, which covers any installed window or door for 25 years.
  • Has done a lot of successful installations and replacements in your area already.

In Conclusion

There is always a lot of hard labour involved in building or remodelling a home, no matter how new or old it is. It becomes much more difficult when you have to select materials that will help you get that perfect final appearance.

It’s crucial that you make the correct choices for your home’s windows and doors, and we hope we’ve been able to assist you.

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Home Renovations Shop the Room!

Things To Consider When Planning A Bathroom Renovation

A bathroom renovation will require proper planning if you want to get the best results. To ensure that your project runs smoothly, you must clearly understand what to expect and organize.

Bathroom renovations are a low-cost way to boost the overall value of your home, especially if you plan to sell in the future. Additionally, improving the space will ensure that you have a welcoming yet functional retreat to perform your self-care routines in the morning or before bed.

Planning a bathroom renovation is an undertaking that requires proper planning, whether it involves a minor or a complete overhaul, especially when there are major revisions in plumbing or electrical elements. In such cases, working with professionals such as a reputable local plumber would ensure a good start.  

If you want a good outcome for your bathroom renovation, consider the following things during the planning stage.

1. Measure The Size Of Your Bathroom

Before you begin your bathroom renovation project, you should first determine the dimensions by measuring everything twice.

One of the typical blunders in renovation projects is not ordering enough tiles, resulting in delays, especially if the tiles you want are no longer available. So, make it a priority to carefully calculate the wall and floor area separately and allow a minimum of 10% extra for wastage.  

Don’t forget to consider some key measurements, such as the size of your bathtub and the amount of space necessary for your toilet. Doing so will greatly help you plan the ideal layout of your renovation project.  

2. Examine Your Finances

Even if you can find average bathroom remodeling costs in your area, each project is different. The amount you’ll likely spend will vary depending on the size of your bathroom, the scale of the project, and the overall quality of the materials you’ll use. Before starting the project, you should ponder what you can spend and ask for estimates from several reputable contractors. Be sure that your upcoming project has realistic expectations.

3. Determine The Level Of Insurance Protection

When selecting a contractor to handle a bathroom renovation project, ask for proof of insurance. Contractors must have personal liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage insurance, among other things.

You should make an effort to screen select contractors for the renovation project and ask for written proposals that should include estimates and projected dates. Double-check to make sure that the contractor’s insurance covers all aspects of your renovation project. 

Photos By: Unsplash

4. Choose A Color Scheme And Style

If you want to refresh the ambiance of your bathroom, start with the tile colors and work your way from there. It’s best to go for at least three colors, with primary, secondary, and accent shades. Light colors like cream, white, or light gray are good options if you want your bathroom to feel more spacious and inviting.

When it’s your first time tackling a bathroom renovation project, it’s best to follow the 60-30-10 rule. Generally, the primary color comprises 60% of the space, and the secondary color is 30%. As for the accent color, it’s only 10%. For example, you can go for white cabinets and walls as the main color, gray for the flooring and countertops as the secondary, and black accessories and taps as the accent.  

5. Identify The Location Of The Water And Electrical Lines  

In a major bathroom overhaul, you should identify the current electrical wires and plumbing sites. Keep the wires and plumbing in their current locations and work on your design around them to avoid a costly project. You should immediately determine if you need to redirect water or electricity while planning the layout.

6. Incorporate The Right Lighting  

When selecting new lighting for your bathroom, consider LED, halogen, or daylight fluorescent if you want to create a natural ambiance. If you want the ideal space, try to layer the lighting with task lighting along with accent, ambient, and decorative lighting to illuminate the space well and eliminate any unflattering shadows. 

7. Determine The Best Options For Ventilation

A bathroom requires proper ventilation to prevent the development of mold. Eliminating moisture is one of the most efficient ways to reduce the risk of mold growth. A recommended approach is to go with a multifaceted approach by utilizing an exhaust fan venting the air outside and a window you can open and close when necessary. 

Final Thoughts  

A bathroom renovation project can boost the value of your property while ensuring you have an inviting and functional space. Working with a professional and understanding a few key considerations before, during, and after your bathroom renovation project will ensure its success.

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