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Tag: East York

Exploring Traditional Renovation Styles from Around the World

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Canadian homeowners looking to renovate their homes are often fueled by a desire to create something different, not just something their neighbors or friends already have. By incorporating design elements from other cultures and countries, you can achieve a comfortable and unique design, but also keep it fresh and exciting.

From the rustic charm of European cottages, to the intricate detailing of Asian aesthetics, the world is a treasure trove of architectural inspiration waiting to be explored. In this article, we will focus on how Canadian homeowners can infuse these global influences into their own living spaces.

European Cottage Style

First up on our list is one of the more romantic styles, that fits great with any building that has exposed beams, stonework, and wood accents readily available. While it might feel slightly out of place in the Canadian scenery, we guarantee you that you will enjoy it year round due to the rustic charm and cozy feel.

To achieve this style in your home, you can use natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather. You can also add touches of greenery and flowers to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. A skilled company dealing in home services can help you add or expose the necessary elements to make this style come to life, by utilizing their expertise in construction and design.

Asian Aesthetics

This is a style that is well known for its intricate detailing and use of natural materials. It often features elements such as bamboo, silk, and porcelain. While you would be hard pressed to find many homes in North America that features the overall exterior elements that typically characterize the Asian style, you can still make the interior feel like an entirely different world.

In order to incorporate Asian aesthetics into your home, your best option is to use furniture and accessories with traditional Asian designs. You can also add touches of color and pattern to create a visually appealing space.

Scandinavian Style

Next up is perhaps the most suitable style for the typical Canadian home. The Scandinavian design principles are formed in a similar climate to the Canadian one, meaning there is a great emphasis on simplicity and clean lines.

And due to the relatively few bright and sunny days, compared to say California, this style often features white walls, natural wood, and minimalist furniture to increase the amount of light and sense of space.

To incorporate Scandinavian style into your home, you can use a neutral color palette and focus on functionality over decoration. You can also add pops of color with accessories and artwork.

If you wish to achieve an authentic Scandinavian look that seamlessly merges with the Canadian lifestyle, a professional home service company such as The Handyforce can be your greatest asset. Our expertise in optimizing interior spaces for functionality, while maintaining aesthetic excellence, aligns perfectly with the Scandinavian design ethos.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Capturing the essence of the 1950s and 1960s, Mid-Century Modern style brings a dash of sophistication to Canadian homes. Defined by geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and sleek lines, this design movement holds timeless allure that will make your home feel sleek and spacious.

At the heart of Mid-Century Modern design is a commitment to functionality without compromising on aesthetics. If you are looking for professional help to achieve this style, our services can help you navigate the intricacies of this style. We are well-versed in finding the delicate balance between preserving the authenticity of the era and integrating modern conveniences.

The Benefits of Upgrading The Electrical System

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Home renovations often tend to focus on the visually interesting parts, but many new Canadian homeowners tend to need an upgrade to their electrical systems as well, either in order to comply with regulations, or in order to power their modern lifestyles.

By investing some time and money into this aspect of home ownership, you can increase the safety, ensure adequate amounts of power no matter if you are running a hot tub or having the house full of teenagers charging devices and streaming Netflix. So today we are exploring when upgrades are needed, and why. Enjoy!

Achieving Higher Levels of Safety

When it comes to your home, safety should always be at the forefront. Outdated or insufficient electrical systems can be a hidden but very real hazard, often difficult to see as most of it is behind walls and within outlets. Aging wiring, improper grounding, and overloaded circuits can all contribute to a higher risk of electrical fires.

By upgrading your electrical system, you are taking a proactive step toward minimizing this risk. A modern electrical system is equipped with safety features that can detect and prevent potential hazards, offering you peace of mind that your home is a secure haven for you and your loved ones.

Modern Lifestyles and Increased Power Demand

In the era of modern technology, our homes have become power-hungry for countless devices, from smartphones and laptops to smart appliances and entertainment systems. The electrical systems of the past were not designed to handle the surge in demand that accompanies our technologically advanced lifestyles.

As a result, homeowners often find themselves confused by overloaded circuits, tripped breakers, and a general lack of power capacity. Upgrading your electrical system is not just about convenience; it is about ensuring that the power infrastructure of your home can keep up with the digital age.

Support for Home Additions and Renovations

Homeowners that are about to begin a home addition project or a large-scale renovation of an older property find themselves at an opportune moment, when it comes to upgrading their electrical systems as well. Not only will it boost the value of the property, but also help with ensuring a future-proof home.

If you have added a new wing to your home, complete with a home office, media room, and extra bedrooms, then you might find yourself dealing with insufficient power or new installations having trouble matching the old existing system.

Upgrading your electrical system during renovations ensures that the new spaces seamlessly integrate with the existing power infrastructure, often being a bit cheaper as well, considering the simultaneous exposure of segments of the electrical system during the renovation process.

Benefits of Upgrading the Wiring

In homes with aging wiring systems and switches, upgrading your wiring is more than just an option, in fact, in some cases it is a necessity depending on the age and applicable builders code in your area.

This is because these outdated wiring systems lack the capacity to handle modern electrical demands, leading to potential safety hazards. If you are unsure, consider contacting us at The HandyForce, where we can perform an initial inspection.

An upgrade to modern wiring materials not only ensures that your home is up to code but also significantly reduces the risk of electrical fires. Modern wiring materials are designed to withstand the rigors of contemporary power usage, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a reliable and secure electrical system.

Small-Scale Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Typically homeowners consider large projects when brainstorming ways in which to increase their resale value. But not all renovations require you to add extra livable space or completely overhauling your property. Sometimes, it is the small-scale changes that can make a substantial impact on the perceived value of your home.

Today we will look closer at the art of strategic, small-scale renovations and how they can yield significant returns. From revitalizing key rooms like kitchens and bathrooms to enhancing curb appeal through targeted exterior upgrades, this article will guide you through a range of impactful ideas that are affordable. Enjoy!

The Power of First Impressions

Let us start with the exterior, as this is typically what potential buyers see the first. And in fact, curb appeal can make or break a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies within, and small-scale exterior upgrades can play a pivotal role in drawing in prospective buyers whether they see a for sale sign driving by, or browsing realtors online. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, trim, and shutters can instantly rejuvenate the facade of any home.

Landscaping is equally important, as well-maintained flower beds, manicured lawns, and neatly trimmed hedges create an inviting atmosphere. Enhance the entryway with potted plants and a clean welcome mat to make visitors feel at home from the moment they step foot on your property. Finally, old and worn fencing can detract substantially from the visual appeal, and is not that expensive to fix.

Kitchen Revitalization

Almost anyone looking to buy a home will look closely at the kitchen, as it is often considered the heart of the home, and where most Canadian families spend a significant amount of time. While full renovations can be relatively expensive, the good news is that you do not need a complete overhaul to make an impact.

Strategic small-scale renovations to the kitchen can help make it much more appealing. Some of our favorite tips include updating the hardware with modern finishes that are in vogue, replacing outdated cabinet pulls and knobs.

If your budget allows, repainting cabinets and adding new, sleek handles can give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look. Modern light fixtures, such as pendant lights above an island or under-cabinet LED lighting, not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of sophistication.

Paint and Refresh

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to transform the look and feel of your home. When painting with resale in mind, neutral and light colors are preferable, as they create a blank canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style and furniture in the space. A neutral palette also makes rooms feel larger and more open.

Consider painting over bold or dated colors that might not align with a wide range of tastes. Beyond walls, you should also pay attention to baseboards, trim, and ceilings to ensure a cohesive and polished appearance.

Return on Investment

Finally, while large-scale renovations can come with hefty price tags, small-scale improvements can offer substantial returns on your investment. The appeal of these small upgrades lies in their ability to make a noticeable difference without breaking the bank.

Another benefit of opting for smaller scale renovations, is that it often times leaves open the option of hiring contractors to help with the actual work. At The HandyForce we would love to hear more about your project, as we are experienced in renovations, whether interior or exterior.

We understand that changing the initial perception can result in higher offers and a faster sale process, ultimately providing a favorable return on the relatively modest investment you have made with your small-scale renovations. Good luck!

The Benefits of Custom Home Renovations

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Living in your home should feel great, no matter if the temperatures outside are soaring or plummeting, if you are doing chores or relaxing on the sofa. Custom home renovations are a great way to add some personality to your home, while also upgrading the comfort and value at the same time.

Some custom renovations completely change the feel and look of the home, while others focus on a single room. Regardless of your wishes, these specific types of efforts can help you feel more at ease, making it your own little paradise.

So in this article we will take a closer look at some of the different advantages and options you have when considering custom home renovations. Enjoy!

A personalized home to fit your every need

As opposed to a normal renovation, a custom home renovation entails making the space your own and catering to your specific needs and wishes.

Whether that means adding an outdoor spa, turning the unused attic into a home office, or creating a modern and functional open kitchen area is up to you. The only limit is your imagination, and of course budget.

By not just going for the standard choices, but really considering what you and your family needs, you can achieve something truly personal that fits like a glove and makes you feel as though you never want to leave.

Increased Home Value

As long as your custom home renovations are not solely for your own enjoyment, meaning that other people might appreciate them as well, then your efforts might be rewarded in terms of a higher value once selling your home.

Whether you remodel with an open floor plan, connecting the kitchen and dining room, or modernize the hardwood floors and floor panels, custom home renovations can be a profitable pursuit. Just keep in mind what other people are looking for as well, and if possible keep your renovations as timeless and with as wide an appeal as possible.

Can improve the safety and add peace of mind

Sometimes these custom home renovations are not just about adding personal touches, but instead adapting the space to fit the human needs we all have. Older generations might want to install different handrails, safeguards and other gear to help avoid painful falls, or at least provide an option to get back on your feet if an accident occurs.

Families with young children might wish to childproof their swimming pools, make the stairways safer to traverse and so on. These things can provide an ease of mind, leading to less stress and worry in the long run.

The whole idea of custom home renovations is to solve an issue or address a need particular to you and your loved ones, so while the suggestions are some common things, the possibilities are endless.

Enhance the aesthetic appeal

Other custom renovations of homes focus more on the visual aspect. Whether it is removing all the old wallpaper and replacing it with modern ones, or knocking down that annoying wall that once housed an old stove.

The benefits of spending some effort on upgrading the look of your home are many, and includes making your day a little brighter, creating a more enjoyable home, and even impressing the neighbors or potential buyers with your newly gained curb appeal.

About the many benefits of adding insulation

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With rising prices for warm water, electricity and gas, as well as growing concerns about our environment on a whole, there has never been a better time to consider insulating your home.

Especially in older homes, insulating can make a huge difference in your monthly bills, as well as your general health and comfort when living in a house that is warm year round, keeps the moisture out, and even has additional soundproofing and fire resistant properties.

So if you are interested in learning more about why insulating is considered one of the best investments you can make for your home, this blog post will get you up to speed with all the many benefits of insulation, as well as a few tips if you decide to move forward with the project.

Lowers your monthly expenses

In many cases you will be able to achieve significant savings on your electricity and water bills, by insulating exposed areas and padding the walls. The actual cost of insulating your home can often be drastically lower than the price you pay for installation, since you will reap the benefits of lower expenses for many years to come.

Combats the cold effectively

One of the major reasons people choose to insulate their homes, especially here in Canada, is due to the ever changing seasons, and especially winter. With temperatures dropping off near the end of summer, homeowners often prepare themselves for 5-7 months of cold weather.

But your home should always be your safe haven, and one of the best ways to make your home more comfortable is to ensure it is well insulated, so you can keep warm and cozy all year round.

Improves the value of the home

An often overlooked benefit of insulating a home or commercial property, is that you will effectively make the house more valuable when it becomes time to sell it on the market. People are willing to pay more for a properly insulated home, not just because of the lower heating bills, but equally so these days, because of the lower environmental impact the house has.

Provides a better indoor climate

A home that is not properly insulated will often be dealing with certain issues such as mold or rot. This is because when the colder air from the outside meets with the warmer air on the inside, a moisture barrier is created, and this can lead to serious health issues if not taken care of in time. Insulating your home helps keep you and your family safe and in good health.

Adds a layer of sound protection

Given the nature of insulating, it is only natural that an extra layer of material between the walls, or in the ceiling, will provide even more of a barrier for sound to travel through. This is a welcome additional benefit, especially in older homes there the sound can carry itself quite a distance.

Emits less greenhouse gas

A properly insulated home requires less heating and uses less electricity and or gas. This in turn leads to less of an impact in terms of the emitted CO2, thereby making the home more sustainable, as well as more desirable for the next generations.

The Best Home Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Whether you are looking to get the most resale value out of your old and beloved home, or simply wish to spend your money the wisest, certain home renovations are known to provide better returns than others.

In this article we will go over the very best types of home renovations you can perform, in order to set yourself up for success when selling your home. We have tailored this list specifically to a Canadian audience, but many of these renovations also do well in the US and Europe for instance. Enjoy!

1. Renovating your kitchen

Perhaps no other home renovation can provide as much resale value as the kitchen. This is after all one of the rooms in which families spend the most time awake. And no matter if you are only using the microwave, or cooking gourmet meals on a daily basis, having a nice, functional and presentable kitchen will certainly entice future buyers.

Not only will this mean that your overall home can see an increase in value, it will also be a top selling point that convinces potential homebuyers to choose your home over the others on the market. If you are unsure where to start, renovating the kitchen is always a sure thing.

2. Renovating your bathroom

Next on our list is the bathroom. Once again an updated bathroom that keeps in line with the modern aesthetics and has a timeless feel can add significant value to your home. Some ideas to consider include upgrading the fixtures, adding new tiles, and installing a modern shower or bathtub.

In Canada the trend has been moving towards larger bathrooms than in previous decades, so if you have room for it, consider adding some square footage where possible. This can make the bathroom feel inviting and luxurious, adding even more value to your home.

3. Energy efficient renovations

Gone are the days of wasteful excess. Today many Canadian homebuyers are increasingly interested in efficient features, such as windows, insulation, and heating systems. By renovating with a mind for sustainability and efficiency, you can achieve reduced energy costs and make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

4. Curb appeal

Spending some time on improving the curb appeal is important for making a good first impression on potential buyers, but be careful what you choose. Not all exterior projects provide the same levels of value.

A spa or pool will typically not increase the home value, and in some cases might even detract some value, or dissuade certain homebuyers due to the added upkeep and maintenance involved. Instead, you should consider adding universally useful features, such as a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen, as well as refreshing your landscaping with new plants and flowers.

Final thoughts

Remember that not all renovations are created equal when it comes to adding resale value. Before you begin any major renovation projects, it can be a good idea to consult with a real estate professional in order to determine which upgrades are likely to yield the best return on investment for your specific market.

The Advantages of Energy Efficient Home Renovations

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One of the most popular reasons for renovating homes in Canada is in order to achieve a more energy efficient home. And for good reason. The winters here can be brutal, and even spring and fall can see the temperatures plummet overnight.

Having a well insulated home that does not waste energy unnecessarily is one of the easiest ways to save money without much effort. Once it is installed that is. In this article we list some of the different benefits you can look forward to by renovating your home and making it more energy efficient.

Lower energy bills

This is what most people think of when talking about efficient and green home renovations. There are a number of different ways in which you can lower your need for electricity, gas and other power and heating sources, all of which share the same goal: to lower your energy bill.

In Canada one of the most important things is insulation. Whether this is by padding the roof with a thick layer to keep out the cold winds, or whether it is to upgrade your windows with new energy efficient materials.

If this is your primary concern, we recommend you talk to your contractor about which renovations make the most sense in terms of return on your investment, as some renovations can pay for themselves in a few years, while others might take decades.

A more comfortable home

By renovating your home to become more efficient, you can achieve a warmer indoor climate that just feels nicer living in. And with the lower energy costs, it will also make it psychologically easier to turn up the heat to full when the cold winds are threatening your comfort level.

By filling out empty areas around doors, windows and other openings in your home, you can eliminate drafts, improve your insulation and achieve a more stable climate. And if you choose the right materials, you will even get a cooling benefit during the warmest months of the year as well.

Helping our planet

The less energy your home uses every year, the more environmentally friendly your home is considered to be. Due to the geographical location, Canadian homes are using roughly twice as much energy a year compared to a home in the United Kingdom.

By upgrading, insulating and renovating with the environment in mind, you can do your part in protecting our planet and slowing down the effects of global warming. We have already begun to see the effects of this trend, as 2019 saw a 0.4% decrease in yearly emissions for homes. A good start, but we can do better still.

It will increase the value of the home

Finally, performing energy efficient upgrades to your home will inevitably raise the value when reselling it down the line. As more and more consumers are aware of the environmental challenges, and as prices for gas and electricity continue to rise, this will only be more important as time goes on.

Another added benefit is that if a potential buyer is deciding between your house and another, but your house has energy efficient upgrades, that could just be the deciding factor. Even if the other home is located in a slightly more desirable area or similar.

The Pros and Cons of Open-Concept Home Renovations

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A growing number of homebuyers are looking for homes with an open-concept design, and the number of homeowners renovating their homes to accommodate for this trend is also surging in Canada. And for good reason too.

These open-concepts make it easy to cook dinner, while still keeping an eye on the children or guests, or moving freely from the dining room onto the more comfortable seating that the living room provides, without opening or closing doors.

In this article we will examine all you need to know about the pros and cons of open-concept home renovations, in order for you to decide whether this is something you wish to pursue as well. Enjoy!

The most common types of open-concepts

Opening up the space between the kitchen and dining room is probably what most people think of when they hear the term open-concept. This is because it is the most popular design in Canadian homes. It typically involves removing the wall that separates the kitchen and living room, creating one large space for cooking, dining, and entertainment.

But there are other types as well, such as combining the living room and dining room. This design similarly involves removing a wall, but this time between the living room and dining room to create one large space. This can make the area more spacious and better suited for gatherings and parties.

Some homeowners have gone a step further, and combined these two concepts, thus removing all the walls between the kitchen, living room, and dining room. This creates an even larger space, where entire families can socialize, while still focusing on their individual tasks or pastimes.

The benefits of an open-concept design

  • Easier access to the different areas
  • Better natural lighting options
  • More desirable for prospective buyers
  • Better use of the space
  • More options with regards to activities

The disadvantages of an open-concept design

  • Can result in a lack of privacy
  • Can result in a more noisy environment
  • Lack of defined areas
  • Storage can be an issue
  • Requires more heating and cooling

The process of creating an open-concept design

One of the most time consuming parts of these designs is removing the walls. Especially so if they are load bearing, meaning you will have to support the structure of the home in other ways. It can also sometimes require you to obtain permits before beginning the work.

Most types of floors will also need some adjusting afterwards, to account for the newly opened space that previously was blocked by the walls.

For hardwood floors this can lead to obvious transitions, and it can be somewhat difficult to hide the fact that you have added new flooring in certain areas.

Sometimes you will also need to move electrical outlets and wiring, as well as plumbing pipes and heating panels.

Luckily, these things are not as difficult as they sound, and a skilled contractor like HandyForce that has plenty of experience, will be able to make the open-concept design look as though it was always there.

If you are looking to learn more about a possible renovation project involving an open-concept design, we would be more than happy to help advise and guide you through the process. Contact us today for more information!

The Future of Home Services: Owning a HandyForce Franchise

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With many industries and sectors experiencing a technological revolution, the home services industry has been somewhat stale in recent decades. Sure, newer equipment and power tools have made it easier for contractors, but many of the methods and principles that apply today were also in practice 30 or 40 years ago.

HandyForce is a company that aims to change all of this. With our cutting edge way of thinking, we are bringing the home services industry into the 21st century. And you can become part of it too, by joining The HandyForce! Sounds interesting? Read on to learn all about it!

Why choose the home services industry

Canadian homeowners are spending more money with each passing year on their renovation projects, and thus you are poised to enter a booming industry. As a HandyForce franchise owner, you can tap into this growing demand and build a profitable business.

Unlike many other industries, this area is not overly saturated with franchises, which allows for an easier market share, less competition and fewer costs associated with advertising and marketing. Add to this that there will always be a demand for skilled labor, and there are many good reasons to consider this industry.

Becoming part of a success story

By choosing to franchise with HandyForce, you stand to immediately get a head start on your competitors that go their own. As a franchisee you benefit from a proven business model, with an impressive track record of success.

The HandyForce has spent years refining its systems and processes to ensure that franchisees have everything they need to run a successful business, enabling you to quickly learn the ropes and grow your business in no time.

Tap into our existing goodwill

With a HandyForce franchise you will also quickly learn that customers recognize The HandyForce name, and know that they can expect quality service and professionalism. This is because we have already laid the groundwork in terms of establishing recognition and trust for our customers, making it easier for you to get new clients.

We invest in people

At The HandyForce we believe in people. In practice this means that we provide all franchisees with comprehensive training and support, including an initial training program, ongoing support, and access to a network of experienced franchisees.

This will ensure that you have the knowledge and resources you need to succeed in the industry, and that help is never far away if you need it. As long as you have a willingness to learn, you will fit right in with us.

Access to our bespoke software

Last but certainly not least, we have developed a completely unique and custom software platform. This tool called “Portal”, streamlines business operations and provides valuable insights into customer behavior, effectively using data-driven strategies and concepts known from the tech sector.

This puts The HandyForce franchise owners in an advantageous position with regards to the future, as other home service companies might be left behind due to not incorporating technology at the same effective rate as HandyForce.

The Top Home Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

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When renovating your home it is important to do it properly. Not only will incorrect renovations lead to potential safety risks, it can also decrease the value of your property, and make it much harder to sell on the market.

In order to help you with your next project, we have gathered a list of some of the most common mistakes Canadian homeowners make when renovating their homes. Keep these tips in mind when you are planning your next design, and achieve success effortlessly. Good luck!

Not spending enough time on the budget

One of the most common mistakes is rushing the budget. We get it. Not everyone loves looking at spreadsheets or researching costs of building materials. But it is a necessary step in ensuring a successful project that will not cost two or three times more than the money you initially thought.

Doing the wrong things yourself

While there are a number of things you can do yourself when renovating a home, you should know when to step back and let the professionals handle things.

When it comes to anything relating to the structural integrity, plumbing, electricity or general safety, having a skilled team of experts work on it will not only yield better results, but might also keep you out of trouble in terms of accidents or lawsuits.

Forgetting the permits

Many homeowners get excited about the prospects of adding a new extension to their home, removing the old stove, or one of the many other things that typically requires a permit. But not obtaining the correct permits can lead to many issues.

From being unable to sell your house until you fix the problems, to monetary fines or even dangerous situations. You should therefore always check whether your project requires acceptance from local authorities.

Ignoring safety issues

Similarly to permits, it is easy for homeowners to focus on all the more interesting parts of the project, but you should never forget to make sure that the work area is safe, and that any hazards are identified and addressed before starting the renovation.

It is critical to stay safe through any type of renovation project, as well as ensure the work that is done is up to code and industry standards. Ignoring common safety principles can lead to injuries and accidents, as well as fines from local authorities.

Thinking all renovations add value

Many people have heard stories of homeowners buying a house, fixing it up, and selling it for huge profits. But this is not always the case. You just do not hear as much from those who lost their life savings in a botched renovation project.

In order for your renovation to add value to your overall finances, not only should the cost be kept at an appropriate level, but your renovation should also entice potential buyers to be willing to pay that extra. Thus you should always choose styles and materials that will have as broad an appeal as possible.

Underestimating the time or money required

Finally, many Canadian homeowners think that renovating a complete kitchen can be done in a week. And while it might be possible in some cases, oftentimes once you start ripping out the old cabinets, you can find other hidden issues that will need fixing as well.

If you are also planning on moving electrical or plumbing installations for your hardware in the kitchen, you should also account for the fact that contractors might not be available the very next day. So expect plenty of time is required for each project, and be happily surprised if it goes faster than planned for.