MARCH 2011
{
T H E U LT I M A T E G U I D E T O D O M E S T I C B L I S S O N T H E N O R T H S H O R E
}
Get Prepared!
I N S I D E : GARDENING TRENDS
A GREEN CHALLENGE
Pro Gas North Shore can help you create an outdoor oasis for all your entertaining needs. Our licensed technicians specialize in the installation, service and repair of natural gas barbeques, patio heaters, tiki torches and custom gas fire pits. Call today for a free estimate or in-home consultation.
ProGas has been serving the North Shore since 1994 and is locally owned & operated. Kam Filsoofi, OWNER
Serving the North Shore since 1994
Pro Gas NORTH SHORE 604.925.1341 • www.progas.ca
Specialists in heating, air conditioning & gas ďŹ tting
Get ready DEANA LANCASTER TAKES STOCK OF EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS.
The images of the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan have got us all thinking about disasters,
It might be one of the few positives to come out of the catastrophe. Many of us have a few things — flashlight, candles, a couple of bottles of water — stashed where they are easy to grab, but few people are prepared to go several days without communication services, electricity or running water. The time to prepare is now. Paulette Mossop, education coordinator for the North Shore Emergency Management Office, said the office has been fielding plenty of calls in the past two weeks from concerned residents wondering about the likelihood of a disaster here and how to prepare for it. Her first suggestion is for residents to visit the website of the North Shore Emergency Management Office, www.nsemo.org. There they will find an abundance of information on how to prepare for an emergency, what to do when disaster strikes, on emergency preparation courses offered by the office and even what the likelihood of certain types of disasters is for our community.
and preparing for the worst.
New Outdoor Collection Simple and elegant with an unfailing Scandinavian expression
“We’ve had a lot of calls from residents who are concerned about the possibility of a tsunami,” said Mossop. “We actually have a very low risk here.” A tsunami report titled “Tsunami Hazard to North and West Vancouver, B.C.” was prepared by Dr. John Clague and Dr. John Orwin of Simon Fraser’s Centre for Natural Hazard Research in December 2005. As well as the barrier that Vancouver Island provides, we don’t have the same kind of topography as the low-lying areas of Japan that were hardest hit by the tsunami. The report itself, as well as a summary of it, are available for reading on the website. Another regular — and important — question is the one of where to store emergency supplies.
1400 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, across from Tim Horton’s
604-988-2789 www.gingerjarcasual.com
VISIT OUR 2ND LOCATION
Ginger Jar Furniture 1420 Fell Ave. at Marine Dr. North Vancouver 604.988.7328 www.gingerjarfurniture.com
“It all depends whether you live in a house, a townhouse, or a high-rise apartment, and how much space you have to store things.” Mossop said she herself moved her bottled water several times before deciding the right place for it is under her bed. “Ideally you want to find a spot that is in the interior part
NOW AT
COLONY WAREHOUSE The Standard of Excellence Since 1880™
WHY BLUESTAR? BlueStar was developed for people who love to cook — in fact, no other gas range on the market offers the same level of cooking performance.
• Convection oven cooking
Most powerful gas ranges on the market – up to 22,000 BTUs. (Independent studies have shown that BlueStar outperforms other ranges when tested for boiling, simmering, deep frying, stir-frying and searing.)
• Hand crafted
• Infrared broiler • All stainless steel construction • Rigorously tested
PRICED FROM
$
2,899.00
2010 WINNER - BEST NORTH SHORE APPLIANCE STORE AWARD
COLONY
1075 Roosevelt Crescent, North Vancouver 604-985-8738 (2 blocks behind Indigo Books - south of Marine Drive)
WAREHOUSE “Saving you money since 1969”
Mon-Thurs: 9am-5:30pm Friday: 9am-9pm • Saturday: 9am-5:30pm Sunday: noon-4pm
www.colonywarehouse.com
Colony – A family operation based on service, selection and value
COLONY COLONY
MACKAY HAMILTON
CHURCHILL ROOSEVELT
LLOYD
Major Appliance & Mattress
MARINE DRIVE CAPILANO VW
PEMBERTON
PHOTO CINDY GOODMAN
A22 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011
CAPILANO MALL
Sunday, March 27, 2011 - athome - A23
of your home, an interior closet or storage area.” In most earthquakes, structures will remain standing. “A total collapse is rare,” said Mossop. An outside shed is not a wise location because of the risk of freezing, food spoilage, animals getting into it or even theft, said Mossop. “If you are storing things to keep you warm and dry, it’s important that they be warm and dry.”
What do you need? Check out the clippable list of basics below, but ultimately, it will depend on your family. “The bottom line is that people have to be prepared to take care of themselves for a week. That’s everyone’s personal responsibility,” said Mossop. “We have to allow the first responders to do what they need to do: clear roads and look for survivors.”
The Savings
Must Go On Event
GRAB-AND-GO PACK ■ Food, water, flashlight, AM/FM radio, extra batteries, water, essential medications, extra clothes, eyeglasses, toiletries, money, pen and notepad, identification papers, first aid supplies, local map, whistle, out-of-area contact number. Under your bed (and the beds of your family members) ■ Shoes and a flashlight, in case of broken glass and/or a power outage.
HOME EMERGENCY KIT Have emergency supplies for a minimum of three days but preferably seven days. Consider special-needs items for infants, children, seniors or people with disabilities and don’t forget your pets. ■ Gas shut-off wrench ■ Flashlight ■ Radio – battery operated or windup ■ Lightsticks/power failure lights/ 36-hour candles ■ Batteries ■ Out of area contact/quarters for phone calls ■ Drinking water (at least two litres per person per day) ■ Washing and cooking water (two litres per person per day) ■ Food (ready to eat, requiring minimal water, heat and refrigeration) ■ Hydrated lime/scoop/dust mask/ rubber kitchen gloves
■ Garbage bags/toilet paper ■ Personal hygiene items, including toothbrush/toothpaste/soap/ shampoo ■ Liquid soap/paper towels/bucket ■ Warm clothes and rain gear ■ Extra medications/prescription/ spare eyeglasses ■ Heavy workgloves/safety goggles/ dust mask ■ Whistle/pocket knife ■ Emergency cash in small denominations ■ Local map/paper/pencil or pen ■ Copies of important documents/ phone numbers ■ First aid kit
O N E S T O P PA T I O S H O P S I N C E 1 9 8 6
Quality Brand Names at Competitive Prices
Save
up to
$2500 Milgard. with
™
For a limited time only, get $30 back on each window or patio door when you get five or more ENERGY STAR® qualified Milgard Tuscany® Series vinyl replacement windows or doors. The more you buy, the more you save. Hurry! This offer ends April 15th.
Replacement windows are one of the easiest ways to dramatically enhance a home’s appearance. The Tuscany™ series vinyl windows offer homeowners exactly what they are looking for in a window. Architecturally styled, engineered for comfort and function, and all backed by Milgard’s Full Lifetime Warranty and service. With additional features not typically found standard on windows, such as a glass breakage warranty and ratings that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR®, the advantages are an investment in Milgard’s Tuscany windows look even more attractive. Milgard Rebate valid January 1 - April 15, 2011. Please see your Milgard Certified dDealer or visit milgard. com for a listing of qualifying products and complete rebate details. Offer subject to change without notice. ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Energy. ©
2011 Milgard Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yes, we do window and door installations, too!
GARAGE SALE Saturday, April 2
Call today for a free, no pressure, in-home estimate. Financing available. OAC. You’ll love our worry-free vinyl patio doors. They won’t warp, crack or peel. Nor do they absorb moisture. That means you can depend on them to slide open easily in any weather. What’s more, they are energy efficient, so they help keep your home comfortable as well. All are available in custom sizes and covered by our Full Lifetime Warranty.
MANY ITEMS BELOW COST Come early for best selection! ODDS & ENDS • TABLES • DISCONTINUED ITEMS HOT TUBS, PATIO FURNITURE, BBQS, PATIO HEATERS, FIREPITS
104 Philip Avenue, North Vancouver • 604.985.0057 www.crystalview.ca Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00 | Saturday 9:30-5:00
1335 Draycott, North Vancouver 604.986.5281 • www.irlybuildingcentre.com SERVING THE NORTH SHORE FOR OVER 30 YEARS
A24 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011 A D V E R T I S E M E N T
RENOVATEMySpace Trust a Renovation Professional Award Winning Renovations Design Build Live Rendering to Reality
2010 WINNER
Renovator thethe Year Renovatorofof Year Large Volume Large Volume
ccirenos.com ccirenos.com
(604) 980 8384 604.980.8384 North Vancouver North Vancouver
Canadian Doormaster Electric Ltd One of the biggest changes on the home building front has been an increase in government regulation regarding building practices. John Friswell of North Vancouver’s CCI Renovations has seen the shift first hand.
• Garage Door Warehouse Showroom • Remote Control Sales
Having been a builder most of his life, he began concentrating on renovations in 1992. Today, as a former chairman of the Canadian Renovations Council, he makes a point of working to improve his profession as well as renovating local homes and understands the impact of the new municipal standards.
• DIY Parts & Accessories Pick Up
59 Bewicke Ave., North Vancouver BC
604.987.5152
www.canadiandoormaster.com
KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN CENTRE
SAVE up to
%
30
Facing increased costs, it’s not uncommon for people looking at a construction project to venture into the underground economy and work with unlicensed for-cash builders. This can be a huge mistake.
on
Cabinets* Valid until April 15, 2011 *See store for details
SHOWER KITS
30%
OFF*
VISIT OUR 3000 SQ FT SHOWROOM PLUS Where PLUS equals service since 1992
828 Harbourside Drive, North Van, South of the N.S. Auto Mall
604.983.8766
“The problems are numerous and none of them are worth the savings you may gain. The first problem is that anyone working for cash will not be paying their taxes, will not have Workmen’s Compensation and probably wouldn’t have insurance or even a business licence and for sure will not have an HST number. Just not having WCB can be a huge problem for a homeowner if someone is injured – or worse yet, killed – on their renovation. WCB and the courts will be looking to the homeowner to cover the
Checking a company’s track record and trade association membership can be an excellent way to find the builder you need for a trouble free project.
“
CCI Renovations is a member of the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association, RenoMark and the Better Business Bureau
”
In 2010, CCI was named Best Residential Renovator by the Greater Vancouver Homebuilders’ Association and won the Provincial Consumers’ Choice Georgie Award. “These awards are based on all of the projects that we submitted for nominations in those particular programs. The first award reflects how we faired with the judges on these projects combined with our commitment to advancing our industry and education of our own staff. The second award is a third party poll of our customers for that year and covers all aspects of our interaction with those clients.” If you’ve got a renovation project looming, make sure you get the right contractor at the very start. They know the changing regulatory landscape and can save you from enormous headaches and hidden costs.
Renew your view
DESIGN. INSTALL. MAINTAIN.
with affordable custom window coverings from Budget Blinds
Check out our great selection of styles: sumers’ Cho on Award ic
2008-2010
B
us
604.924.5296 Follow us on:
greatcanadianlandscaping.com
Budget Blinds of North & West Vancouver
The Northshore’s ONLY
604-929-2546
Window & Door Specialists. It’s all we do!
FREE In-Home Consultation www.budgetblinds.com
604.839.0636 northshorewindows.com
e
C
Shutters • Draperies Wood Blinds • Cellular Shades Roller Shades • Roman Shades Woven Wood Motorization & more! Gold Award Winner e
Bathrooms
“We see a surge from all levels of government, particularly at the local level, in trying to be the greenest of the green,” says John. “Our industry has always led in it’s initiatives to provide greener, more energy efficient homes and regulation is not the best way to ‘encourage’ the industry. We are seeing this with the latest initiative from Metro Vancouver and their diversion of waste program for construction sites. As an industry we are already exceeding recycling targets set for 2015 and yet they are looking at ways to add costs to the renovation or building of a home to ‘ensure’ compliance.”
costs associated with that accident – this is akin to having a car accident without any insurance. There will always be an underground or ‘gypsy’ market and it is up to the government and the construction associations to ensure the public are aware of the multitude of dangers of dealing in this economy.”
i n e Fo r l l e n c ss Exce
Sunday, March 27, 2011 - athome - A25
2011 Gardening Trends AILSA FRANCIS CHECKS OUT THE LATEST IN GARDENING DELIGHTS, FROM BLACK PETUNIAS TO URBAN FARMING. Fads and gadgets come and go in the gardening world, but I would suggest worthwhile changes usually take place over time and are better characterized as movements rather than trends. Here are some picks for the coming year that will continue to gain momentum.
NEW PLANT INTRODUCTIONS Black petunias, early blooming day lilies and a march of shrubs sporting new colours and more compact dimensions are all coming to the marketplace. Some will prove themselves over time and others will fall by the wayside, but whatever their ultimate benefit, yearly introductions are here to stay.
ĂžÂŽÂ…ÂœvĂŠ Ă•Ă€ĂƒiĂ€ÂˆiĂƒ
6QDPNJOH &WFOUT
and hen manure or lawn applications with corn gluten to inhibit weed growth are all on the rise.
0SOBNFOUBM (SBTTFT
BIODEGRADABLE, REUSABLE AND QUALITY GARDENING PRODUCTS
4BUVSEBZ "QSJM QN "Ă€Â˜>“iÂ˜ĂŒ>Â?ĂŠ}Ă€>ĂƒĂƒiĂƒĂŠ>Ă€iĂŠ>ĂŠ}Ă€i>ĂŒĂŠ>``ÂˆĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ }>Ă€`iÂ˜Â°ĂŠ ÂœÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ Ăœ>Â˜ĂŠÂœvĂŠ Ă?i“Â?>ÀÊ ÂœĂ€ĂŒÂˆVĂ•Â?ĂŒĂ•Ă€iĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ`ÂˆĂƒVĂ•ĂƒĂƒĂŠ ĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂ€Âˆ}Â…ĂŒĂŠ}Ă€>ĂƒĂƒĂŠvÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂ€Âˆ}Â…ĂŒĂŠÂŤÂ?>ViĂŠ>˜`ĂŠÂ…ÂœĂœĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒ>ÂŽiĂŠ V>Ă€iĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…i“°
We’re thinking twice before tossing things, choosing instead to reuse, repurpose, buy quality or return our efforts naturally to the earth.
URBAN FARMING
HASSLE-FREE PLANTERS
GREEN/LIVING ROOFS AND WALLS
Plants, like ornamental grasses, succulents and other coddle-free offerings, (think no dead-heading, cutting back, heavy fertilizing or replacing) are now becoming the first choice for planters.
Green roof technology has actually been around in Canada for many years, but it has only recently been catching on for residential applications. There are certain important considerations (i.e. roof pitch, load-bearing capacity, and maintenance provisions) but there are many energy, ecological and beautifying benefits.
Not the high maintenance cottagey gardens of the past, but nevertheless, homeowners continue to look for alternate ways to cover the ground in their front gardens. The lawn continues to shrink.
4BUVSEBZ "QSJM BN /Â…ÂˆĂƒĂŠĂƒi“ˆ˜>Ă€ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ`iĂƒÂˆ}˜i`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ}ÂˆĂ›iĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠ>ĂŠL>ĂƒÂˆVĂŠ ÂŽÂ˜ÂœĂœÂ?i}`iĂŠÂœvĂŠ}>Ă€`i˜ˆ˜}°Ê/Â…iĂŠ`ˆvviĂ€iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠĂŒĂžÂŤiĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠÂŤÂ?>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠ Â>Â˜Â˜Ă•>Â?]ĂŠÂŤiĂ€i˜˜ˆ>Â?]ĂŠiĂ›iĂ€}Ă€ii˜Ž]ĂŠviĂ€ĂŒÂˆÂ?ÂˆĂ˘ÂˆÂ˜}]ĂŠĂœ>ĂŒiĂ€ÂˆÂ˜}]ĂŠ >˜`ĂŠÂ“ÂœĂ€i°
7FHBUBCMF 4FNJOBS 4VOEBZ "QSJM QN ĂŠÂŤi>ÂŽĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŒÂœĂŠĂƒÂœÂ“iĂŠvĂ•Â˜ĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠĂ›i}}ˆiĂƒÂ°ĂŠ iÂ˜ĂŠÂœvĂŠ,i`ĂŠ >Ă€Â˜ĂŠ ÂŤÂ?>Â˜ĂŒĂƒĂŠĂœÂˆÂ?Â?ĂŠLiĂŠÂ…iĂ€iĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠĂŒ>Â?ÂŽĂŠĂ›i}iĂŒ>LÂ?iĂƒt
CREATING AND MANAGING BACKYARD ECOSYSTEMS We are increasingly resisting sanitizing our gardens. The result is that the vibrant cycle of life encompassing good and bad bugs, disease, visiting creatures and unpredictable weather is teaching us valuable lessons about backyard ecology and life.
NATURAL FERTILIZERS, PESTICIDES AND HERBICIDE More and more manufacturers are bringing alternative products to the marketplace. Fertilizers with seaweed
IT’S SPRING!
-i“ˆ˜>Ă€ĂƒĂŠ>Ă€iĂŠvĂ€iiĂŠLĂ•ĂŒĂŠÂŤÂ?i>ĂƒiĂŠÂŤĂ€i‡Ài}ÂˆĂƒĂŒiÀÊ ĂƒÂœĂŠĂœiĂŠV>Â˜ĂŠ`ÂœĂŠ>ĂŠVÂ…>ÂˆĂ€ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠVÂœvviiĂŠVÂœĂ•Â˜ĂŒ PHOTOS DREAMSTIME.COM
LAWNS CUT FROM FRONT GARDENS
/FX UP (BSEFOJOH
Visiting farmers’ markets in town gives a glimpse of what’s being grown on the fringes of the city. However, many resourceful individuals are turning vegetable growing into an urban business.
ĂœĂœĂœÂ°`ĂžÂŽÂ…ÂœvÂ˜Ă•Ă€ĂƒiĂ€ÂˆiĂƒÂ°Vœ“
{ĂˆĂ¤ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜ĂŒ>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ ĂœĂžÂ°]ĂŠ ÂœĂ€ĂŒÂ…ĂŠ6>˜VÂœĂ•Ă›iÀÊ ĂŠUĂŠĂˆĂ¤{°™nx°£™£{
Making plans for your yard and garden? See the experts at the‌
North Shore’s largest landscape supply store BLACK TERRAZZO FIBERGLASS PLANTER RETAINING WALLS & PAVERS
WE CARRY a full line of water garden and pond supplies. Come in and see our 4 water features!
ABBOTSFORD
Available in a variety of shapes and sizes
CONCRETE PRODUCTS
Ponds • Pavers • Retaining Walls • Patio Slabs • Fountains •Natural Rock • Garden Statuary • Planters & More! 1371 McKeen Ave, North Vancouver (at the foot of Pemberton Avenue)
604.984.3008 Mon to Fri 7:30am-4:00pm • Sat 8:30am-4:30pm Closed Sun & Holidays
Creative
Bricks ’n’ Blocks
A26 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011
Taking the challenge When it comes to saving the planet, every step counts. That’s what North Vancouver’s Forde family learned when they took part in a nationwide challenge to reduce their environmental footprint. “You think, my goodness, turning off one light bulb is just a small little thing and the problems we’re facing are much, much bigger than that, but I think they make a little bit of difference,” said Nancy Forde, following the family’s one-month challenge. “If everyone were to do that, it could make quite a large difference.”
This year, Nancy and Cameron Forde, both Simon Fraser University science professors, and their two children were selected to represent Greater Vancouver in a Canada-wide energy-saving challenge. In its second year, the Great Green Challenge — sponsored by Whirlpool Canada — provided three families from across the country with all-new energy saving appliances and followed each family’s quest to reduce their energy consumption by ten per cent during the month of February. “We thought it would be really interesting to challenge ourselves,” said Nancy. After adding another storey to their Emerald Drive bungalow and the birth of their son last year, the family was looking for ways to run their larger home in a more sustainable way. “We weren’t sure if we would be able to reduce at all because the footprint of our house was twice the size,” she said.
Nancy and Cameron Forde and their children Alistair (3 months) and Gillian (4 years) took part in the “Great Green Challenge” by reducing their energy costs and blogging about the experience.
1380 Pemberton Ave. | North Vancouver, BC
604.987.1293 | maxwellfireplace.ca
PHOTO SUBMITTED
g is Here! Spri2”nWood Blinds Faux Wood Blinds
ON SALE until April 15, 2011
Build locally...Build anywhere
FABRIgCASprAilL1stE
Design, Build, Deliver, Setup
startin
BRAND NAMES YOU CAN TRUST
A SHADE BETTER Est. 1984 604.984.4101 #110-949 W. 3rd St., North Van. (behind Capilano Mall)
info@ashadebetter.ca • ashadebetter.ca
• • • • • •
Blinds Drapery Automation Repairs Parts Cleaning
Monday-Friday 10 to 5 1367 Crown St. North Vancouver Visit our showroom today.
www.ajia.ca • 604-990 -1133
n dia na duct a C ro P
Sunday, March 27, 2011 - athome - A27
Reflect Refl ect Your Taste in
When the challenge began Feb. 1, the Fordes started making small changes to their daily routines. They replaced their light bulbs with fluorescent lights, they cut back on laundry and especially the dryer, and they lowered the temperature of their new heated floors that were installed during renovations last year.
Discovering easy ways to cut back on unnecessary waste, the family is motivated to continue reducing their footprint. “We didn’t set out to do things that we weren’t going to be able to stick with. We wanted to make changes that we will be able to continue,” she said.
The average Metro Vancouver resident produces 156 garbage “We didn’t set out bags worth of trash to do things that we each year, more than “That was pretty exciting to weren’t going to be able half of which ends us,” Nancy said. “We were to stick with. We wanted up in the landfill. able to reduce . . . in spite to make changes that As part of its Zero of a much larger house.” we will be able to Waste Challenge, continue.” Metro Vancouver aims But for Nancy, the challenge to divert 70 per cent of provided not just money-saving the region’s landfill-bound tricks but also an “environmental garbage by 2015. awareness” that the family hopes to continue. Aside from reducing electricity But for Nancy, the Great Green Challenge use, the Fordes started taking public transit has demonstrated the power that each more often and packing reusable plates individual person can make when a when they went on day trips. conscious effort is made to reduce waste and cut back on energy use. “Going to the food court, I was appalled to look around and see that every single “The Earth is heading in not a very good person was eating on something that was direction unless we all do our utmost to just going to get thrown into a landfill. reduce our energy usage and our reliance on There’s just so much waste and it’s very non-renewable natural resources,” she said. easy to carry around my own plate, fork NIAMH SCALLAN and knife,” Nancy said.
The Beauty of Stone
After a month, the Fordes managed to save $16.40 on their energy bill.
OFFICE & SHOWROOM
1450 Charlotte Road, North Vancouver KITCHEN & BATHROOM COUNTERTOPS Find out the advantages of Engineered Quartz and Natural Stone at:
604.985.0213
www.nsstoneworks.com FUNCTIONAL & FABULOUS...
Fiberglass French Doors CONSIGNMENT CANADA HAS RE-BRANDED! We hope you enjoy our new look and we invite you to become a Fan on our newly launched Facebook page updated Monday to Saturday with the newest arrivals and hot deals. Did you know that Consignment Canada offers professional appraisal services? Tina is a certified appraiser and member in good standing of the Canadian Personal Property Appraiser’s Group. We offer appraisal services for insurance, divorce and estate purposes.
Enterprise
Call for your FREE estimate today
We continue to offer no-obligation* appraisals for those interested in consigning with us. Please call us at 604-980-1110 if you are moving, downsizing or dealing with an estate. *Some conditions apply
Richersons fiberglass doors won’t deform, split, shrink or swell as time passes. The polyurethane injected foam core in our doors provides insulating values five times greater than that of wood doors and along with our superior quality weatherstripping will also help decrease your energy bills. Rust and corrosion free, our fiberglass doors are engineered to keep your home looking great for years to come without giving up security.
SPRING SPECIAL STARTING AT
$
1250
PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED When ordered by April 30, 2011
High Quality Doors and Windows Open Wednesday - Friday 10am - 6pm & Saturday 10am - 5pm
171 Pemberton, North Vancouver 604.980.1110 email: info@consignmentcanada.com
604.980.3667 • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • NEW CONSTRUCTION • RENOVATION
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM: 103–2433 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver www.northshoredoor.ca
DOORS • WINDOW • MOULDINGS • DOOR HARDWARE • ECLIPSE BATH HARDWARE • GARDEN DOORS • PATIO REPLACEMENT
A28 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011
House styles 101 As the old adages go, “a man’s home is his castle” and “there’s no place like home.” What type of house a person chooses to call home can say a lot about his or her personality and priorities. There are many different types of housing styles, each with unique features, benefits and detriments. When shopping for a new home or thinking about updating a current place, it can be wise to keep housing style in mind before signing on any dotted lines or making any renovations.
Colonial
START SAVING RAINWATER NOW!
Colonial homes were developed during the colonial period of the United States and remain one of the most popular housing styles to date. Colonials generally have a distinct square or rectangular shape and are often large and stately. Main rooms are on the first floor of the house, while bedrooms are on the second level. A centre-hall colonial can have a staircase or hallway splitting the home into two distinct sides.
COLONIAL
Ranch
RANCHER
Ranch-style homes became popular in the 1960s, when many families were flocking to suburban areas. Long, spacious homes were first seen on the country’s ranches. As they cropped up in different areas, they were still referred to as ranch-style homes or ranches. Ranch homes are very popular with seniors because most are one-level homes.
Split-level A split-level home is a multi-leveled dwelling with a small staircase that leads up from the main level and another that leads down from the main level. A side split may be visible when looking at the front of the home, where a back split may only show when looking at the side elevation of the home. A bi-level home only has two levels.
REGISTER FOR OUR COMPLIMENTARY “CUSTOM HOME BUILDING SEMINARS” SATURDAY, APRIL 2 OR SATURDAY, MAY 14 (10 - 11:30 AM) LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE
Sunday, March 27, 2011 - athome - A29
Craftsman Craftsman homes came out of the Arts and Crafts movement that spurred architectural styles as well as furniture design. Craftsman homes are built from stone or stucco and are meant to blend in with the surrounding landscape. Oftentimes one storey, the Craftsman may have one dormer over the roof and feature thick pillars on a front porchway.
“To Build or to Renovate. That is the Question.” The Shakespeare Team recently completed a fairly extensive renovation on our home. Mark was fully involved in the planning stages and making sure we got what we wanted. We are very satisfied with the finished product and would definitely recommend the Shakespeare Team. As a matter-of-fact, we have just re-hired them!
CRAFTSMAN
Contemporary
Bob and Penny Gayton, West Vancouver
A contemporary or “modern” house has little ornamentation and may be asymmetrical in design. It uses glass extensively and other modern building materials. Contemporary homes are often designated by sleek, unadorned lines.
Cape Cod Cape Cod homes were built from the 1930s through CONTEMPOR ARY the 1950s. The style originated in colonial New England, but then spread to other areas of the country. The homes are usually compact and feature a centre hall layout with rooms branching on either side of the hallway. Capes may be one- or two-storey dwellings with small rooms and dormers that protrude out of a sharply pitched roof.
Nothing says it better than the words of my clients
Mission
You and your crew provided us with the professionalism and detailed work that we were looking for when seeking out a contractor. Our relationship managed to grow over the months, so much so that you were able to envision what we expected in our finished product. We are so happy with the work, we hope selfishly that you display it on your website so that many people can see the quality work your company provides. Thank you again.
The Mission style became popular in southern U.S. between the years 1485 and 1558. It was inspired by Mexican mansions. Mission-style homes are distinguished by exterior stucco walls and parapets, or a low wall that runs at the perimeter of the roof. Mission homes also may have an arcade, or a series of arches supported by large square columns to form a large, shaded entry porch.
Tudor Tudor-style homes are reminiscent of the Tudor architectural style popular in England between 1485 and 1558. These homes are characterized by an asymmetrical floor plan, tall, thin windows, a large chimney, decorative half-timbering and steeply pitched roofs.
TUDOR
PHOTOS CINDY GOODMAN | DREAMSTIME.COM
Doug and Joann Lum and family, North Vancouver
604.970.2281 www.shakespearehomes.com
Advertisement
Park Place Garage Co. – It’s Not ‘Just a Garage’... It’s Good to be in Here™ Adding Value and Function to the Largest Most Under-Utilized Space in your Home If your garage is like most, unfortunately it is the often forgotten, abused, last bastion of unconquered space in your home. We take for granted this large enclosed undeveloped square footage attached to or adjoining us. Your house and yard was thoughtfully purposebuilt with careful attention to design, comfort and function – Does it make any sense that your largest and most potentially productive multi-season, all weather, multi-use room is undeveloped and not efficiently utilized? It doesn’t have to be this way, especially with recent advancements in modern designer floor coatings, storage, organizational systems, and related technologies that cater specifically to this space. Welcome Home.™ Stop parking your vehicles
in your driveway, and drive yourself in out of the rain and cold, while simultaneously creating a versatile, warm, well lit, organized all-purpose room for all of your family’s hobbies, sports, business, recreational pursuits and valuables. Park Place Garage Co. are expert designers, fabricators, builders, and craftsmen focused on customer service, who specialize in professional custom transformations. They consult and work with you together to transform your garage into another ‘room’ in your home with the same attention to creative design detail, colour, trim, lighting, heating, and finishing that you currently enjoy throughout the rest of your house. Imagine a new spacious and organized workshop with area to actually work on your projects. Or how about a new personal gym or fitness room?
A winter and rainy-day versatile, indoor play area for the kids? A scrapbooking, crafts and art studio? Or how about a man-cave where your husband can ‘escape’ with his friends? Park Place Garage Co offers tough polyaspartic floor coatings, concrete crack repair, custombuilt heavy-duty wooden and metal cabinetry, powder-coated heavy gauge metal ceiling racks, shelving, aluminum slat-wall hanger systems, and more. They can help you organize, finish, and convert your existing garage space, adding considerable value and appeal to your home, while providing your family with another comfortable, attractive, quality-built easy to maintain, functional allpurpose room to enjoy and put to productive efficient year round use.
Contact Us To Book a Free In-Garage Consultation Park Place Garage Co. Vancouver #3 – 19122 27th Avenue Campbell Heights (showroom open by appt.)
www.parkplacegarage.net
032911
South Surrey | BC | V3S 5T1 P 604 535 6610 | F 604 535 6641 info@parkplacegarage.net
A30 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011
NEW GUIDE BENEFITS HOMEBUYERS AND BUILDERS ACROSS B.C.
The guide is also a valuable information tool for residential builders. Although warranty providers are ultimately responsible for construction defects, most “The province, warranty providers, the residential warranty providers have an indemnity agreement with construction industry and consumer groups are each builder client. This requires the residential builder recommending this new publication as the ‘go to’ bestto correct defects for a certain period of time in which the practice, reference guide for owners of new homes home warranty insurance coverage is in effect. Builders and licensed residential builders,” said Rich Coleman, can use the guide to help meet or exceed the standard to minister of energy and mines and minister which their new homes will be measured in the event of responsible for housing, in a release. a claim. “For most consumers, buying a new home is one of the largest financial investments they Developed in consultation with home “It’s essential that will make. So it’s essential that homebuyers can warranty insurance providers for use homebuyers can make make that investment with confidence, knowing in British Columbia, the Residential that investment with that they will not be faced with additional Construction Performance Guide confidence, knowing that expenses to repair defects after they move in,” provides advance information that said Tony Gioventu, executive director of the they will not be faced with sets out the minimum required Condominium Home Owner’s Association in additional expenses to performance of new homes covered the release. repair defects after by home warranty insurance in they move in.” B.C. Warranty providers have agreed The guide is designed primarily for conventional to use the guide to help determine low-rise, wood-frame homes, which is the whether or not a defect claim is covered predominant method of residential construction by their policies of home warranty insurance. in B.C. It also provides some helpful guidelines with respect to the common property of larger multiAvailable free online, the guide explains how warranty unit buildings, based on the most frequent concerns providers will evaluate claims for possible defects in identified by warranty providers. The guide is based on design, labour or materials in new homes. It outlines requirements under the Homeowner Protection Act that all more than 200 possible defects that are searchable new homes built for sale or under a construction contract online. This includes the most common defect claims that in B.C. must be covered by home warranty insurance or might be submitted under a home warranty insurance be exempted by the act. It complements the B.C. building policy — from windows that malfunction to driveway or code, but goes beyond the minimum requirements of the interior concrete floors that have cracked or siding that code to deal more specifically with defects in the design, has buckled. “Homeowners can use the guide to help materials and workmanship of new homes. determine whether or not a concern they have with the Created by the Province in partnership with the Homeowner quality of their new home may be covered by their home Protection Office (HPO) and industry, the new Residential warranty insurance,” said Coleman. “This will help protect Construction Performance Guide can be viewed on the HPO consumers and give them realistic expectations about the website at www.hpo.bc.ca performance of their new homes.”
PHOTO DREAMSTIME.COM
A new Residential Construction Performance Guide is the latest information tool to protect buyers of new homes and enhance the quality of construction in British Columbia, according to B.C.’s housing minister.
Lowest Prices ON THE NORTH SHORE Cabinets Granite & Quartz Honey Oak Shaker
$
10’x10’ starting at
1499
• Solid wood doors • Plywood cabinet construction (no particle board) • Full extension drawers • Professional, fast installation
Granite Tops
$
35
starting at INSTALLED
sq.ft.
Vancouver Cabinets Inc. NORTH VANCOUVER 3A-987 Marine Drive | 604.929.9828 RICHMOND STORE #1-11520 Voyageur Way | 604.233.9297 COQUITLAM STORE 2568 Barnet Highway | 778.285.1118 LANGLEY STORE #104-6360 202nd St | 778-278-1818
www.vancouvercabinets.com Go
BU
to
Y
w w w. sw ar m ja m .c om
NO
W
!
Introducing
Manufacturers of
Sweet Deals Daily
Windows & Patio Doors
50% OFF 60% OFF Pampering Facial with Neck & Shoulder Massage Reg $125
only
$
Quality Aluminum
00
49
• Thermal break • Inside storms • Glass replacements • Conversions • Skylights
Rebate
• Brown & white standard colours NEW• Woodgrain aluminum • Custom colours & installation available
H-Bar
Equal Leg
• Renovation • New Construction • Residential
FREE ESTIMATES Locally Owned & Operated Since 1959
#106- 585 16th Street, West Vancouver 604.912.0220
How does SwarmJam work? k? SwarmJam brings you amazing deals on the coolest shows, restaurants, fashion, activities and family adventures. We can deliver great offers because we assemble a group called “The Hive” with combined purchasing power. To join a group, click the “Buy Button” and follow the instructions. You will only be charged if the group is big enough. If you want the Swarm, spread the word far and wide because we can’t get it unless we have enough people. You can share it easily using the social media links on each deal page. Find a Swarm and join the Hive...you’ll save big time!
To see your business here - Call 604-980-0511
Go to www.swarmjam.com to join The Hive and find some great deals!
EVER-BRITE
Storm Sash
Aluminum Products Ltd. 1132 W. 14th Street, North Vancouver
604.985.3154 Fax: 604.253.3324 Email: ever-brite@telus.net Web: www.ever-brite.com Nailon
Three Quarter Nailon
NOW AVAILABLE-ENERGY STAR WINDOWS
Sunday, March 27, 2011 - athome - A31
ASK A PROFESSIONAL
ADVERTSING FEATURE
IS YOUR WATER PRESSURE UP TO PAR?
Got Rubbish? Why not clean it up?
604-RUBBISH Junk Removal & Recycling Service We do all the loading & clean up. We remove almost anything.
Save Day Service, On Time • FREE Estimate, Lowest Rate
Call: 604-782-2474
Book Online: www.604rubbish.com
Relax ...
Leave the cleaning to us! Always thorough, consistent and reliable, MOLLY MAID offers and afforable, hassle-free way to clean your home. Regular and occasional cleaning on prearranged MOLLY MAID day. Transportation and cleaning supplies provided. Complete dusting, vacuuming and washing of floors in every room. Thorough and detailed cleaning of bathrooms and kitchens. Professionally trained, bonded and insured staff.
For the health and safety of our customers and staff as well as to protect the environment.
Call today for a free, no obligation in-home estimate.
604-987-4112 northvan.westvan@mollymaid.ca
“The Grass is Greener” English Lawns specializes in multiple aspects of new lawn installation and landscaping. With over twenty years experience, from residences to golf courses, we ensure quality and efficiency for any installation projects.
Call us for: • New Lawn Installation • Old Lawn Replacement • Instant Service (seven days or less) • Lawn Drainage & Total Landscaping • Paving
We use only the best quality top soil & turf -Any size job Call Nick for FREE ESTIMATE
BCLNA Award Winner!
Commercial • Residential
604 929-7732 www.englishlawns.com
For those who have turned on a faucet to find a trickle or bathed under something more like a drip sprinkler than a shower, water pressure might be the culprit. Inadequate water pressure can be a nuisance. Remedying it could take a quick fix or a major overhaul. There are many reasons for low water pressure. Diagnosing the problem is the key to fixing it. Silver Fern Plumbing offers some causes to consider. * Water softeners or filters in homes can reduce water pressure. * Multi-level homes could experience a drop in water pressure in upstairs bathrooms. That’s because, for every 2.31 feet of vertical climb in a water line, a homeowner will lose a pound of water pressure. Water that originates in the basement and must travel upstairs could decrease by 12 pounds of pressure by the time it arrives at a third-floor bathroom. * Clogged pipes or fixtures can reduce water pressure. Pipes that are also too small in diameter to meet the house water needs could also be to blame. * Water restrictors in showerheads and other fixtures can reduce water flow in an effort to conserve the natural resource.
Shower enjoyment can be impeded if water pressure isn’t up to par.
For more information and plumbing advice contact Silver Fern Plumbing at 778-340-1590 www.silverfernplumbing.com
Bros.
Roofing Ltd. The Company Homeowners Trust Samra Bros. Roofing Ltd. is a family owned and operated business serving the lower mainland for the last 40 years. We are specialists in cedar shake re-roofing and we also do cedar conversions to fiberglass laminate shingles. We use high quality products such as Malarkey and CertainTeed. All of our roofs come with warranties which are fully transferrable.
Call us today @ 604-983-0133 for a free estimate. Call us before you sign on the dotted line and see how much money we can save you.
• Liability Insurance • WCB • BBB
www.samrabrosroofing.com
THE ROCK DOCTOR QUALITY INSTALLATIONS OF NATURAL AND CULTURED STONE
Homeowners can insert a gauge at the main water supply of the house to determine the pressure of the water at the source. This will help determine if the problem lies outside of the home or inside. Some water pressure issues have easy fixes. Simply cleaning the screen on faucets or showerheads can remove debris and improve water flow. Purchasing fixtures that do not additionally restrict water flow can also alleviate the problem. Some homes have various valves installed in the plumbing system so that a leak or problem can be isolated and turned off. However, the wrong types of valves can impede water pressure. It can be well worth the expense to have a professional plumber to investigate home water pressure issues and recommend solutions. It may be simpler than one thinks.
• Facings • Landscape Walls • Stairs • Fireplaces • Patios & Walkways
604-312-7643
www.rockdoctorstonework.com The Rain Water LEADERS
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
“With Silverfern, You’re in Good Hands”
since
1979
• Sales • Installations • Repairs • Maintenance
Specializing in Heavy Gauge 5” x .032” Continuous Colonial Aluminum
• TANK REMOVAL • TANK LOCATING • SOIL TESTING
• METAL DETECTIONS • VAC TRUCK SERVICES • SOIL REMEDIATION
CERTIFIED OIL TANK REMOVAL & REMEDIATION SPECIALISTS Seniors Discount • Free Estimates
604-328-1234
Our certified, licensed plumbers will have the answers to your plumbing problems and concerns. We pride ourselves in getting the job done right and in a timely manner.
778-340-1590 www.silverfernplumbing.com
We offer high flow, unfiltered gutter outlets with filters at the bottom of the downpipe for easy access. Downpipes in eighteen colours to match trim. Heavy gauge colonial gutter in four colours. Five year installlation warranty. Fully insured and registered with Work Safe BC. 655 East 15th Avenue, Vancouver • 604.876.4604
A32 - athome - Sunday, March 27, 2011