QC-Home Renovation

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Fall is a favourite season to tackle the many home improvement projects on your “to-do” list.

Check out our Fall Renovation Guide for great ideas and important advice on upgrading and maintaining your home – inside and out!

FALL

RENOVATION

GUIDE

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017

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FALL RENOVATION GUIDE

CONTENTS FALL RENOVATION GUIDE EDITOR JEANNIE ARMSTRONG

DESIGNER LESLEY COCKBURN

WRITERS JESSE GREEN MIKE SHIPLACK MICHELE TYNDALL WENDY LIVINGSTONE

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F Five questions to ask before renovating Are you planning an upcoming home improvement? If so, you are not alone.

Higher-than-average renovation spending is expected in 2017, according to a leading consumer magazine, with more than half of homeowners planning to spend money on home improvements throughout the year.

From upgrading appliances to gutting entire rooms, big projects can have a big impact on a home and on your wallet, so it’s important to approach any renovation with thoughtful intention.

To ensure you make the right decisions when it comes to large purchases and major home improvements, ask yourself these five questions: 1. How long do you plan to live in the home?

Knowing how long you expect to

live in your home can help you better navigate home improvements. If you only plan to live in your home for five years you’ll likely make different decisions than if it is your forever home.

2. What is your budget?

Home upgrades don’t come cheap, so it’s helpful to determine a budget before you start. Consider renovations and upgrades as a smart way to maintain your home investment. By putting money into your home, you are helping maintain its integrity, style, usefulness and value.

When setting a budget, you can pay out of pocket or take out a personal or home equity loan. Additionally, some companies offer lowinterest financing. If you plan to borrow for your project, make sure you clearly understand and are comfortable with payment terms.

Once you set a budget, stick to it.

Problems may arise that require unexpected additional costs, but often budget blowouts are from homeowners who start spending and the excitement of the project causes them to go beyond their means.

3. What purchases are worth the splurge?

Research and decide which purchases are worth spending more on. For example, appliances used nearly every day are a worthwhile investment – especially if they are more energy efficient and offer features that enhance your day-to-day routine. Rather than getting a basic washer, opt for the LG TWINWash™ 2-in-1 washer. It can run two loads at once, saving homeowners time and energy.

4. What is the ROI? The return on investment should

be considered in many ways for home improvements. First, check out reputable reports like the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report. For example, adding fiberglass attic insulation recoups 107.7 percent of the cost.

In addition to resale ROI, consider other ways you’ll get a return on your investment. Will your upgrade help you save energy and reduce your bills? Will it save you time and stress in daily life? Does it enhance your home’s aesthetic and flow?

These are other ROIs that are just as

valuable to consider as resale ROI. 5. What does the research say?

It’s worth your time to conduct research so you get the best outcome possible. Learn about materials to discover which is best for your lifestyle and research brands. If you’re hiring the project out, research contractors to find a reputable professional for the job.

Starting a home improvement project is exciting. Answering these questions will help ensure your time and financial investment are well spent. (BPT)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L FA

GET GLOWING!

Warm up your home with an electric fireplace

BY MICHELE TYNDALL

The beauty and warmth of a fireplace is a welcome addition to every home, but installation times and the ongoing need to keep the woodpile stocked can be a hassle.

Not so with convenient and easy to use electric fireplaces.

“Today’s electric fireplaces have more realistic looking flames which are brighter with LED technology, giving the flame a more lifelike appearance day or night.

You no longer have to buy them with a cabinet or surround which gives you a lot more choices and styles for both fireplace and finishing. Some models have very little of the metal frame showing which gives them a very clean face look and much more realistic. You can also find multi-sided units that were not available in the past. They also offer the ability to change the colours of the flame bed and even the flame on some models,” said Steve Flett, manager of Northern Fireplace, Regina.

Since 1995, Northern Fireplace has made it their mission to supply, install and service quality, energy efficient fireplaces and other hearth products for their customers in Saskatchewan as well as Alberta. They carry a great selection of electric fireplaces, as well as the inserts needed to convert traditional fireplaces to electric.

Electric fireplaces come in a wide variety of styles with a range of features, making them a great addition to any home’s design and function.

“We start by asking the customer what functions they desire from the fireplace along with features and style. For example do they want a cabinet to house the fireplace and perhaps a TV and components? Do they want ambiance

Today’s electric fireplaces come in a wide variety of styles with a range of features, making them a great addition to any home’s design and function. NO RT H E R N F I R E P L AC E

and heat or are they just looking for ambiance? Do they want a unit with a log set or glass ember bed for a more modern look? Do they want something small or are they doing a large feature wall?” said Flett Northern Fireplace has a large electric fireplace display in their showroom so they can help customers choose the right product and look, including freestanding stove models, wall-mount units and full framed walls where the fireplace is wired in.

“Most units are wired for 110 volt but some models can be wired for 220 volt in order to produce more heat. From there the customer is free to finish the newly constructed wall with whatever material they choose. This could be stone, tile, marble or even wood right up to the opening because the electric units do not require any clearances to combustibles,” said Flett.

Electric fireplaces are designed not just for every home, but for every wallet as well. With a price range starting at less than a hundred dollars for small freestand-

ing units to linear built-in models priced up to $4,000, there is a style and a price to suit everyone.

“The most popular units tend to be in the $700.00 to $1500.00 range. There are also custom units available that can be designed and built for any budget,” said Flett.

Electric fireplaces are increasing in popularity due to their ease of use and attractive features. One of the most popular new lines of electric fireplaces is by Dimplex.

Northern Fireplace recently installed a Dimplex Optimist electric fireplace at Mosaic Stadium.

“The Optimist units actually use water vapour to create the fine mist that reflects the light and looks like real flames with smoke rising above the flames. They are similar to a humidifier but with the ultrasonic technology you are adding very little humidity to the home. You can purchase built-in models of different sizes along with cassette-style units that can be totally open around them to create a multi-sided unit. They can also be linked together to create whatever size of fireplace you desire. You can even hook them up to a continuous water supply so you do not have to refill the water tanks,” said Flett.

Northern Fireplace is a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association, the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, and the SaskEnergy Natural Gas Network.

Their factory-certified installers and highly knowledgeable sales staff are ready to help customers choose and design their perfect fireplace, large or small, traditional or electric, from initial concept to full installation.

For more information on electric fireplaces, visit www.northernfireplace.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R FALL

Garage door has huge visual impact on your home If you’re buying a garage door this fall, you’ll be faced with several decisions that you likely never had to make before. Before you call your local garage door dealer to make that purchase, here are some of the new decisions that you need to face.

1. The design decision Remember the old adage that the front door is the most important design element in the home? It’s not true anymore.

In most homes today, the visual impact of the garage door is many times greater than that of the front door. Studies have even proven that your garage door design can affect the appraisal value of your home.

Today, manufacturers offer hundreds of new, unique and stunning looks. Design experts recommend that you choose a door design that blends in well with your home design, complementing its overall appearance. To do that, match the door with your home’s exterior colours, textures and patterns.

To help you with your design decision, the garage door industry has created the free consumer site garagewownow.com, which contains dozens of photos of the latest garage doors from many manufacturers.

Plus, most manufacturer websites now feature a “door designer” that lets you see how different designs will look on an uploaded photo of your own garage.

2. New opener decisions The garage door and the opener are two separate items, but they are often purchased together. And since today’s openers offer many more features and accessories than ever before, you’ll have several new decisions to make.

AC vs. DC: Openers with DC (direct current) motors, which were

Choose a garage door design that complements the home’s appearance.

rare 10 years ago, are now widely available. DC and AC motors are both durable and reliable, but DC motors are quieter, and they allow the door to soft-start and soft-stop, instead of clanging to an abrupt stop.

3. Accessories: Here, the decisions are many. For example, you can now operate and monitor your garage door from your smartphone. You can also get a battery backup unit, a real lifesaver in a power outage.

When you consider motion detection, music speakers, mini transmitters, automatic deadbolt locks,

LED lighting, external keypads and more, you’ll realize how far openers have come.

4. New thinking on insulation Insulation isn’t a new decision, but there is new thinking to consider. “The garage acts as a ‘buffer zone,’ much like the vestibule to a restaurant or a grocery store,” says Joe Hetzel, P.E., technical director for the garage door manufacturers’ association. “An insulated garage door makes it easier to control the heating and cooling costs for the home.”

This new “buffer zone” thinking

BP T

considers garage door insulation as a must. Fortunately, insulation typically pays for itself. Dow Chemical recently reported that, for every $100 you invest in an insulation project, you generally get a return of $117 in recouped energy costs.

“Once you get an insulated door, you never go back to uninsulated,” says Ed Hermanns, a door dealer in New Jersey and president of the International Door Association.

“Most of our customers today buy an insulated door, and that number seems to increase every year.”

You might be buying a new gar-

age door out of necessity, but as it turns out, it’s a smart purchase. An upscale garage door replacement delivers the highest return on investment for all upscale remodeling projects in the new 2017 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine.

So, while you have a few decisions yet to make, you’ve already made the good choice to get a new garage door. After you add the latest designs and technology, you’ll have a chance to admire all your choices every time you pull in the driveway. (BPT)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017

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E ID U G N IO T A V O E N E ID R U L G L N A FFALL RENOVATIO Modern Modern meets meets rustic rustic in in home home decor decor With so many interior design With to so choose many from, interior design styles you may be styles to choose you may be torn between a from, chic rustic home torn between a chic rustic home or cool contemporary space.

Acor cool contemporary space.

According to Sharon Grech, colour cording to Sharon colour and design expert Grech, for Benjamin and design Benjamin Moore, thereexpert is no for need to limit Moore, therechoices is no need to look. limit your décor to one your décor choices to one styles look.

Combining two opposing Combining two and opposing can feel current leave astyles lastcan impression. feel current Here, and leave a lasting she shares ing impression.

Here, she shares suggestions on how to master the suggestions onmodern how to master the art of mixing and rustic art of mixing interior décor. modern and rustic interior décor. rule. “This is the The 80/20 The 80/20 rule. is the perfect formula for “This combining perfect formula for combining different trends,” explains Grech. different trends,” explains “The main style should be Grech. repre“The main be represented in 80style per should cent of the space sented 80 per of theshould space and theinother 20cent per cent and the other 20 per cent should

be the contrasting style. If most of be thefurniture contrasting style. Iftry most of your is rustic, addyour furniture is rustic, tryas adding modern touches such an ing modern touches an edgy coffee table and such sleek as lightedgy coffee table and sleek ing.”

Conversely, if most oflightyour ing.”

Conversely, of your existing furnitureifismost modern, acexisting furniture is modern, accent with textured and repurcent with textured and repurposed pieces like woven mats, posed pieces like chair wovenormats, a wooden rocking even a wooden rocking chair or local even antique vases or jugs with antique vases or jugs with local flowers. flowers.

Natural beauty. “Layering in Natural beauty.materials “Layeringwill in earthy and natural earthy and natural will effortlessly unite materials modern and effortlessly unite modern and rustic styles, creating a cozy rustic styles, creating cozy yet current space,” says aGrech. yet current space,”like saysexposed Grech.

Existing features Existing featureswood likeorexposed beams, reclaimed a stone beams, reclaimed wood a stone fireplace naturally lendorcountry fireplace lend charm to naturally any room.

Forcountry homes charm to any room. For homes

Create a cozy but current space by layering natural materials reflecting Create a cozyboth but modern current space by layering natural reflecting WS C materials ANADA and rustic styles. NE both modern and rustic styles. NE WS C ANADA

that need a modern infusion, try that need a modern infusion, try adding small accents in natural adding small accents in natural materials to bring warmth and materials to abring warmth and texture, like wicker side table, texture, like and a wicker side linen throws pillows or table, a jute linen rug. throws and pillows or a jute rug.

Keep calm and colour on.

Keep calm and colour on.

Colour plays a crucial role when it Colour plays a crucial role interior when it comes to mixing different comes styles. to mixing different interior decor “For contemporary decor styles. contemporary rustic decor, “For I recommend soft, rustic subtle decor, coloursI recommend that can be soft, consubtle colours thatand canmodern,” be considered both classic sidered both “Whites, classic and modern,” says Grech. beiges and says Grech.

“Whites, beiges and blues are perfect for a home that is blues are perfect for a home thatMy is blending two different styles. blending two for different styles. My go-to shades a contemporary go-to shades a contemporary rustic vibe arefor Ballet White OC-9 rustic vibeOwl are2137-60 Ballet White and Grey in a flatOC-9 finand Grey 2137-60 in a flat finish.”

(NewsOwl Canada) ish.” (News Canada)

1601 4th Avenue • (306) 522-5651 www.alfords.ca REG00261391_1_1

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E ID R U FFAALLLL RENOVATION G E

THE POWER OF PENDANTS

BY JESSE GREEN

BY JESSE GREEN

While it’s a given that pendant While it’sand a given thatislands pendant lighting kitchen go lighting and kitchen islands go hand-in-hand, deciding on the hand-in-hand, on mathe right style, size, deciding spacing and right spacing and with material style, can besize, tricky.

We talked terial can be tricky.

We talkedLightwith Craig Roberts of Richardson Craig Roberts of to Richardson Lighting about how wade through ing about how totowade the sea of choices comethrough up with the perfect sea of choices come for up with accent to lighting your the perfect accent lighting for your kitchen. kitchen.

Start by determining what kind by determining whatfrom kind of Start illumination you need of youthey need from theillumination pendants. Will provide the theysimply provide taskpendants. lighting orWill are they to task lighting or areand theysparkle simply to add some colour add someIf colour and has sparkle to a room? your room plenty aofroom?

If your room haslike plenty supplemental lighting pot of supplemental lightinglighting, like pot lights or under-cabinet lights or under-cabinet lighting, your pendants can be simply a fun, your pendants can be simply a fun, decorative piece. decorative “We’re piece. seeing vintage bulbs “We’re vintage totally on seeing trend right now, bulbs those totally on trendbulbs. right now, those large Edison However, large bulbs. they’reEdison not always the However, best light they’re theThese best light source,”not saidalways Roberts. filasource,” saidbring Roberts.

These filament bulbs a great rustic ment bring a great rustic accentbulbs to the room and would accent roomlight and source. would provide to an the ambient provide an ambient light source.

Drum style and upward-facing Drum style pendants alsoand offerupward-facing ambient lightpendants alsopopping offer ambient lighting, and are up not oning, are lighting popping but up not ly asand island alsoonas ly as island lighting but also as

substitutes for chandeliers over ing room and it must be 34 inches room and and it must 34 inches substitutes off the table youbemust have eating areas. for chandeliers over ing thependants table and youyour must have eating areas. three over island,” On the other end of the scale off pendants overweyour island,” thelights otherwhich end oftarget the scale said Roberts.

Today see chandeareOn task the three Todaybathrooms we see chandeare lights which target the liers Roberts. in bedrooms, and lighttask downward.

The bottom of said bedrooms, bathrooms and light downward. of liers even in barns; it’s clear that creativthe fixture will beThe clearbottom or open, barns; it’s clear that creativthe fixture will clear open, even ity and rule-breaking are the new illuminating thebe area foror kitchen and rule-breaking are the new illuminating area forpower kitchen norm. work. Think the about the of ity work.

Think power of norm.

The rule of odd numbers, speyour bulb forabout these the open-bottom The rule oflights odd numbers, speyour bulb for theseswitch open-bottom three over an island, fixtures; a dimmer or lower cifically three lights over an island, fixtures; a dimmer switch or alower still makes a lot of sense.

However, output bulb can help soften too- cifically makes a lot of sense. output bulb caneffect. help soften a too- still if you are working with aHowever, shorter bright spotlight you and are working a shorter bright spotlight island you love awith chunky, largeOnce you’ve effect. determined what if and you love a chunky, you’ve determined what scale pendant, it may work largeto go theOnce pendant lighting’s function is, island pendant, to go the pendant lighting’s is, scale with only two. it“Ifmay twowork pendants it’s time to think style. function In an open two. “Ifthan twocramming pendants it’s time home, to think style.

In an open with look aonly lot better concept look at the adjoinlot betterin,than concept look at the adjointhreeapendants thencramming breaking ing areas.home, If you’re working in mid- look ing areas.modern, If you’reüber working in midstyle ispendants the way toin, go,”then saidbreaking Roberts. century modern or three is the wayguidelines to go,” saidfor Roberts. century modern, über stay modern or style Traditional height traditional, you should within Traditional guidelines for height traditional, you should stay within is to hang a pendant six feet (1.8m) that style era. to hang a pendant six feet (1.8m) that style era. have to get matchy- is from the floor.

However, if you are “We don’t the with floor.aHowever, if youthen are “We don’t have to get working taller ceiling matchy, but you want the matchylighting from taller ceiling then matchy, you want the lighting it makes with sensea to hang the lights pieces tobut have the same flavour so working makesaccenting sense to hang the lights pieces to belong have the same flavour so it higher, the ceiling and that they together,” Roberts the ceiling and that belong Roberts the styleaccenting of the pendant.

Likewise, said.they “They don’ttogether,” have to be from higher, style of the Likewise, said.

“Theyproduct don’t have be from if your light is apendant. large, heavy dome the same line,tobut they the your light is athe large, heavy dome the same product but they if which points light straight should reference oneline, another.” points light straight should reference one another.” down, you maythe consider raising As for size, spacing and height which you may consider raising As for size,the spacing andisheight the fixture to get more ambient installation, rule book com- down, installation, rule book is there com- the light.fixture to get more ambient pletely gone.the “Ten years ago pletely gone. “Ten Overall trends for lighting conwas a definite set ofyears rules,ago likethere ‘You light.

Overall trends lighting conwas definite set of rules, like ‘You to be thatfor warehouse-inmustahave a chandelier in your din- tinue tinue to be that warehouse-inmust have a chandelier your dinVintage-style lighting is in a great way to add a dash of industrial chic to your Vintage-style a greatSY way add a dash ofCH industrial toTIyour P HOTOSis COURTE OFto ARTCRAF T/ RI ARD S ONchic LI G H NG home décor. lighting home décor. P HOTOS COURTE SY OF ARTCRAF T/ RI CH ARD S ON LI G H TI NG

Residential & Commercial • RECESSED LIGHTS • SPECIALTY BULBS • UNDERCABINET LIGHTS • FXTURE & LAMP REPAIR • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING & MORE! Trade Partner Of The Year!

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F spired factory look. “The industrial style is getting bigger and bigger every year. We’re seeing lots of different materials like rebar or concrete and different kinds of woods or wood grains. All of those kind of polish off the look really nicely,” said Roberts.

While pendants and kitchen islands will always go together like cookies and milk, pendants are also finding their way into other corners of the home. They can take place of the traditional vanity light in a bathroom, either dropped over the sink or flanking each side of a mirror. Multi-pendants or clustered pendants work well in the dining room.

“Lighting is kind of like jewelry for the home and pendants can be that statement piece. You can use it to accent the rest of your home or use it as a bold pop of colour; it’s the fun part of lighting in a

Lighting is kind of like jewelry for the home and pendants can be that statement piece. home,” said Roberts.

Richardson Lighting offers design and consultation, help with lighting layouts and insight into what’s happening with lighting trends and codes. They can be found online at richardsonlighting.com and have locations in both Regina and Saskatoon.

A D F B VA F D B A

All contractors who are part of the RenoMarkTM program have agreed to abide by the following a Code of Conduct...

The RenoMarkTM logo is the mark of excellance in the Renovation Industry.

The quality of your home depends on the quality of your Renovator. Ensure your renovation is done with one our RENOMARKTM Renovators.

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• Is a member in good standing with the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) • Abides by the RRHBA Code of Ethics • Provides a detailed written contract for all jobs • Offers a minimum two-year warranty on all work (excludes minor home repair) • Carries a minimum $2 million liability insurance • Has coverage for workplace safety and employers’ liability insurance and/or only work with subcontractors who carry such coverage • Carries all applicable licenses and permits • Maintains a professional level of knowledge on current building codes, permit procedures, and technical skills through continuing education • Maintains a safe and organized work site • Return phone calls within two business days

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www.reginahomebuilders.com REG00261402_1_1

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL

The no-fuss, no-muss bathroom makeover

BY MICHELE TYNDALL

Maybe your bathroom is looking a little dated these days, or maybe it’s not working at all. But the thought of living in a construction zone for weeks is a challenge many people don’t want to face.

Now there’s an answer. Bath Fitter Regina offers one-day bath and shower remodels.

Unique, quick and easy, Bath Fitter Regina is the ideal choice for customers looking for an attractive and reasonably priced renovation done in a timely manner.

Founded in 2001, Bath Fitter Regina has been providing their unique, high quality services to homeowners and commercial property managers in Regina looking to update their bathtub or shower without having to tear apart the entire bathroom to do it.“Bath Fitter prides itself on custom-made bath and shower systems and our one-day install,” said owner Randy Shalovelo.

With over 11,000 installs done throughout Southern Saskatchewan since they began, Bath Fitter Regina is the premiere choice for custom tubs and showers done right in a cost-effective and quick install that still provides the highest quality and choice, every time.

They provide a wide range of bathtub and shower styles, colours, patterns and accessories. The installation can be done in less than a day, and the work done by their factory-trained and certified installation technicians has a lifetime guarantee.

SUPPLIED PHOTOS

“Our product is unique because Bath Fitter manufactures everything we sell.

We are then able to offer a true lifetime warranty on the product – something

that no other reno companies can do,” said Shalovelo.

Once a customer chooses their colour and style, the unique Bath Fitter Regina one-piece seamless wall

system and acrylic tub liner can be installed right over the existing tub and wall.

Because it is custom-made, they guarantee a beautiful look and a watertight fit.

The sales staff at Bath Fitter Regina are experienced and knowledgeable in their products, as well as in all the latest trends and fashions for the smallest room in the house.

“Bright is trending right now. Our bright high gloss acrylic gives our customers the ability to really lighten and brighten their bath and shower areas. Also people want to be able to care for the area with ease and all of our acrylic is non-porous so that makes it very easy to clean and keep looking beautiful for decades,” said Shalovelo.

In addition to walls, showers and bathtubs, Bath Fitter Regina can supply accessories such as faucets, showerheads, shelves, safety bars, soap dishes

and shower rods to create a whole room design that it is as beautiful as it is functional. And it can all be done in less than a day with no demolition1 “The one-day install is a huge benefit to our customers. At least 90 per cent of our jobs are completed in seven hours or less,” said Shalovelo.

Bathtub resurfacing is a short-term solution to dated tubs and showers, often having to be done again in as little as two years. And removing a bathtub altogether can be difficult and messy, putting the entire bathroom out of commission and possibly damaging walls and floors. But with Bath Fitter’s unique system, tub, shower and walls are installed right over existing pieces, and the original areas are cleaned and repaired, ensuring a solid and watertight base for our new tub surround, bathtub or shower.

In home-estimates are free, and pricing is determined by what the customers choose as well as the condition of the existing bathroom. Best of all, Bath Fitter’s acrylic bathtubs, tub surrounds, replacement showers and shower conversions are all custom-made and guaranteed for as long as you own your home.

To get started, call Randy and the staff at Bath Fitter Regina at 306 757 2284, visit their website at www.bathfitterregina.com, or drop by their store to see all the options for a brand new bathroom!

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F How to buy the right size TV screen With real estate prices on the rise, many of us are opting to downsize our homes so we can upsize our lifestyles. The minimalist approach is gaining ground as we seek to be less wasteful, investing in fewer, higher quality items and focusing on essential pieces.

At the same time, home entertainment is evolving as streaming entertainment and gaming grows in popularity. And the home theatre style is still popular, as demand for advanced TV displays continues to grow.

The challenge now is how to make the most of your home entertain-

ment area in a small space. Here are a few tips to get you started: 1. Furniture scale is critical, as is furniture placement. For a small room, look for sofas and seating that have a narrower depth, which provide comfort while taking up less floor space.

2. Pick items that do double duty.

A padded bench or ottoman rather than a coffee table serves as additional seating in a pinch.

3. Make sure the TV screen size is appropriate for the room. If you’re sitting on your sofa, go for one that takes up 40 to 50 per cent of your field of vision. The larger the screen,

the better the quality should be. Try the LG OLED TV, which is the most advanced TV display technology on the market today, offering over a billion colours and perfect black for life-like picture.

4. When designing your entertainment space, screen size isn’t the only thing that needs to be considered. When it comes to the TV, the thinner the better. LG OLED screens are as thin as four stacked credit cards, which means the screen is unobtrusive and attractive, seamlessly fitting in to any decor.

5. When it comes to storage cabinets, a wide cabinet with a narrow

When shopping for a new TV, it’s important to ensure that the screen size is appropriate for the size of your room. NEWS CANADA

depth pushed against a wall makes for a good TV stand and doesn’t take over the room. A few carefully

chosen pieces work better than trying to fit too much into a room.

(News Canada)

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FALL RENOVATION GUIDE the design possibilities are endless.

Reuse vessels like shipping crates, Mason jars and tin boxes. Personalize them with colours and patterns to match your interior and inject personality and life into your space.

WEEKEND WONDERS:

Transform your home with these DIY projects Weekends are ideal opportunities for quick and inexpensive DIY projects that make a big statement around the home.

The average American homeowner spent nearly $3,000 on home improvements in 2015, according to a Statista report. The following list of affordable projects can be achieved for a fraction of that cost.

• C R E AT E W O O D AC C E N T S

Use flooring to make headboards and accent walls. Retailers like Lumber Liquidators offer a variety of styles of flooring such as laminates, engineered, vinyl, click ceramic plank and more, and these flooring materials can easily be incorporated into many accent features. The

flooring material can be affixed to walls and other surfaces with a special acrylic flooring tape. Flooring comes in a variety of styles, which can also be cut into striking patterns like chevron or herringbone.

• I N S TA L L B U T C H E R B L O C K C O U N T E RT O P S

Butcher block is a warm and rustic countertop style that’s affordable and increasingly popular. Made from strips of wood bonded together, it can be sliced and chopped on directly – a great option for the minimalist homeowner. Installation is DIY-friendly, making butcher block an ideal weekend project with a good stepby-step tutorial in hand.

• BU I L D A T R E L L I S

Building a garden trellis is a great way to draw more attention to what your green thumb has created. Dedicate Friday to sizing the trellis and cutting and framing the pieces, Saturday to building the panels and assembling and Sunday for digging the holes and setting the trellis into place. Tailor to what’s best for your backyard by building out of wood, bamboo or PVC pipe.

• R E P U R P O S E D PL A N T E R S

When gardening outside isn’t an option, bring the garden inside by making unique planter boxes. A DIY planter box is typically more affordable than store-bought, and

• A D D C R OW N M O L D I N G

Easy-to-install wood accents are a great way to transform a room.

Create a feature wall or headboard from plank flooring material, held in place with special acrylic flooring tape. B P T

Crown molding adds distinguished curves and angles to a ceiling, instantly elevating a room to a polished and sophisticated look.

DIY crown molding does require attention to detail when measuring and marking the wall and cutting pieces, so measure twice to cut once.

These are just a few of the weekend-ready projects homeowners can knock out this summer to bring new life to spaces indoors and out. A weekend DIY project is a minimal time investment that not only creates a sense of accomplishment, but adds value to your home. (BPT)

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SATISFIED CUSTOMERS ARE A SOURCE OF PRIDE FOR BLACK PEARL CONSTRUCTION According to a recent CIBC poll, approximately half of all Canadian homeowners are planning to repair or improve their current homes this year. If you’re among those many Reginans planning a renovation project, your first step is to select an experienced, reputable contractor to do the job.

Black Pearl Construction is a local family-owned and operated firm, founded by Red Seal journeyman carpenter Kyle Colibaba. “We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and the quality of our finished product,” says Colibaba, who has enlisted a team of talented tradespeople to complement his carpentry skills.

Black Pearl Construction offers a full range of renovation and construction services, from quality framing, windows, doors and drywall to finely crafted finishes and trims, including custom carpentry; cabinetry, countertops and backsplashes; crown moulding, wainscoting and railings; hardwood, laminate and tile flooring; and so much more.

Since launching the business in 2014, Black Pearl has tackled renovation projects of every size, from start to finish. “We’re not scared of the larger jobs, including whole home renovations,” says Colibaba.

Black Pearl has also helped homeowners improve the accessibility of their homes, including the installation of ramps, the widening of doorways and construction of barrier-free kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.

Throughout each project, Colibaba is dedicated to providing his clients with details, including transparent quotes. As a result, his clients know exactly how every dollar of their investment is spent.

Black Pearl’s high degree of transparency also creates greater room for flexibility in its projects. When clients are informed of their expenses in detail, they can work with the company to find more efficient alternatives.

“Everyone has budgets,” says Colibaba. “So, if they ever want to change their budget or bring the cost down, then they’ll know what each piece costs and what they can take out or leave in as opposed to guessing.”

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OUR CLIENTS SAY IT BEST: “Kyle showed a real interest in what we needed and what we were looking for. He designed and constructed a wheelchair ramp and deck that really met our needs and looked terrific … He knew the procedure and the requirements of the building code and the inspections. He had no problems at all on getting permits, everything was on time, and he managed the inspections.”

- Michael Huck “They did quality work. They certainly met timelines and were very professional … We had to do a lot of it by phone and by text, so it was a long-distance build. So, when you consider that he was kind of my eyes and ears for some of the work that was being done, I felt that he was taking some real responsibility for it to make sure that I got a good job. I could count on him.”

- Lois Fraser “I would rate them as ‘highly recommended. Early on in the project, he did all the legwork, from spending time actually looking at our project and making sure that the idea actually worked in the physical world and not just on paper. He was very transparent with everything he did and upfront on everything that would cost more … He actually followed up with us six months after completion just to see how things were going, if there was anything that we wanted to see him again.”

- Keith Mazenc

This is an attribute that Lois Fraser really appreciated when Black Pearl constructed her new home. The clarity of Colibaba’s quotes made it easy for her to decide on the specific aspects of the building project. “It was very clear – you knew what you were getting,” she says. “They had good suggestions. There were things Kyle suggested that I wouldn’t have known to ask about. It was really, really helpful,” she says.

Another client, Keith Mazenc, praised Colibaba’s willingness to communicate with clients and keep them informed. “He was very engaged with our project plan and provided options. He was always able to meet us on our timeline to review progress updates or any changes that we might need to consider along the way.”

Client Michael Huck was impressed with Colibaba’s ability to find ways to reduce costs without reducing quality. “He knew his suppliers,” says Huck. “He knew what they could do, what they couldn’t do and where to get good prices.”

Black Pearl Construction looks forward to caring for all of your home renovation and improvement needs. Call (306) 540-8693 to book a free consultation and estimate.

MICHAEL HUCK

BLACK PEARL CONSTRUCTION WE DO IT ALL! WE DO IT RIGHT! • Framing • Windows and doors • Insulation • Drywall • Textured ceilings • Drop ceilings • Painting • Cabinets and counter tops • Back splash • Custom carpentry • Crown moulding and wainscotting • Flooring , hardwood, laminate, tile

KIETH MAZENC

LOIS FRASER

• Custom tile showers and tub surrounds • Hand railing • Fireplaces • Roofing • Siding, vinyl, hardie board • Decks and fences • Electrical • Plumbing • HVAC • Gas fitting CALL (306) 540-8693 OR VISIT US ON FACEBOOK

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL

Make your bathroom the brainiest room in the house Smart technology has found a place in virtually every room in the home, even the one where we take care of our most low-tech needs.

In fact, thanks to innovations like sensor-operated, self-cleaning toilets, moisture-sensing ventilation fans and digital shower controls, it’s possible to turn an ordinary bathroom into the brainiest room in the house.

If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom with the latest smart technology, here are five elements to put at the top of your must-have list: 1 . S M A RT E R S H OW E R

From showerheads with light and sound, to digital temperature and water pressure controls that you can set from your smartphone, an array of high-tech features is available to elevate the simple act of getting clean to the level of a luxurious, high-tech experience.

You can find something for every preference. Love to shower at night? Install a showerhead that features its own lighting. Dislike fiddling with the controls every morning to get just the right temperature? Opt for digital temperature controls that allow for multiple pre-settings for individual users. Focused on conservation?

Try a showerhead that senses what you’re doing – washing your hair, shaving your legs – and automatically adjusts the water flow accordingly.

2. INTELLIGENT TOILET

A toilet that cleans itself is a dream come true for many people, but TOTO boosts the intelligence of its NEOREST AC wall-mount toilet even higher. The intelligent toilet features a WASHLET per-

sonal cleansing system that uses warm, aerated water for comfort, a warm air dryer and a heated seat.

An automatic opening and closing function and auto-flush ensure you never have to touch the toilet.

The toilet keeps itself (and the environment in your bathroom) clean with a flushing system that uses an environmentally friendly combination of gravity and highspeed water jets to spin away waste, while an in-bowl catalytic deodorizer helps keep the air fresh.

The bowl itself is glazed with titanium dioxide and zirconium, which when activated by the toilet’s integrated UV light, creates molecular reactions that help keep the bowl free from visible and invisible waste.

Not only will you not need harsh detergents to clean the toilet, it’s is also WaterSense labelled, and uses just 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf ) for solid waste and 0.9 gpf for liquid.

Visit totousa.com to learn more.

3. V E R S AT I L E V E N T I L AT I O N

Bathroom ventilation fans serve practical and cosmetic purposes.

Ventilation removes moisture and humidity that could promote the growth of mold and mildew, and can help exhaust unpleasant odors. Of course, not everyone puts ventilation to its optimum use, and that’s where a new style of bathroom fan comes in.

Ventilation fans that sense humidity – such as after someone has taken a long, hot shower – turn on automatically to help remove excess moisture from the room. Some fans can communicate wirelessly with wall switches or with an app that allows you to control the fan from your smartphone.

Today’s bathrooms offer a diverse range of smart technologies. G E T T Y I M AG E S 4 . M U LT I - TA S K I N G M I R R O R

Mirrors and medicine cabinets aren’t just for reflection anymore.

Now you can kit out your smart bathroom with mirrors that feature built-in TVs and can communicate with your home’s security cameras, and medicine cabinets with defogging features that can let you get to your post-shower shave faster.

Refrigerated medicine cabinets are perfect for preserving delicate drugs and cosmetics, and you can find both mirrors and medicine

cabinets with built-in USB ports for charging your devices.

5 . A DVA N C E D AC C E S S O R I E S

Of course accessories can be additions that put any bathroom over the top, and you never have to settle for ordinary accessories in your smarter bathroom. Enhance the usability and convenience of your bathroom with items like: ■ A small robot that mops floor tiles automatically.

■ A Bluetooth-enabled toothbrush that communicates with your

smartphone to monitor how well you’ve brushed.

■ A smart scale that helps you track your weight and health progress.

■ Touch-free soap dispensers.

■ A towel rack that uses hot air and ultraviolet light to dry towels and keep them fresh longer.

■ By upgrading to tech-savvy versions of everyday bathroom elements like toilets, faucets and showers, it’s possible to make your bathroom not only one of the mostused rooms in the house, but the smartest as well. (BPT)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F What’s trending in smart home technology?

Everyday, technology is getting better at saving homeowners time, energy and money. In recent years, appliances of all brands have set their sights on pushing the limits of development and innovation. What used only to exist in futuristic films can now be found in your local Home Depot. Here are a few recent insights into what’s new in appliances.

Flexibility. Imagine owning a washer that can run two separate loads at once, or a dryer that lets you dry delicates and everyday garments at the same time. Newly developed technology brings this dream to life, and even include Wi-Fi connectivity so that you can receive alerts, start, stop and monitor cycles remotely.

Saving time. Some appliances have smart home capabilities so busy professionals can monitor their kitchens via their phone or laptops. This means you can now purchase high-tech ovens, dishwashers and fridges that are equipped with cameras, allowing you to check on your roast from the bedroom or draft a shopping list from the supermarket.

Saving money. Have you ever been hungr y and indecisive, letting all the cool air out while you ponder in front of an open refrigerator door? LG brings state-of-the-art technology to their new door-in-door fridge design, which provides easy access to drinks and snacks without opening the full fridge door. It’s almost like magic — simply knock

twice on the glass to illuminate the contents within.

Simplified design. As the heart of the home, the kitchen fills an increasing number of functions including cooking, socializing and dining. Designers are finding new ways to embed intelligent technology into countertop surfaces that help keep the space clean and uncluttered. Homeowners now have the option to integrate wireless charging hotspots directly into hard surfaces like Corian countertops, which allows for embedded tech. So, when you get home after a long day at work, simply place your smartphone on the designated counter area and juice up that battery while you get dinner started.

(News Canada)

Doing the laundry is now a breeze, thanks to today’s smarter appliances.

NEWS CANADA

how well

you track progress. sers. ot air and wels and

avvy veroom elecets and make your the moste, but the REG00261261_1_1

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FALL RENOVATION GUIDE NATURAL SELECTION:

Live-edge wood trending in home design Live-edge hardwood, in which the sides of the slab are left unmilled to retain the natural profile of the tree trunk, is an increasingly popular decorative trend in today’s residential interiors. The technique is not only used for pieces of standalone furniture such as tables and benches but also for built-in elements like shelving, mantles, counter tops, bars and kitchen islands.

“Most mills cut off the rough tree edges, turning the raw timber into neat boards,” says Linda Jovanovich, of the American Hardwood Information Center. “But the current demand for live-edge slabs has led to a small but vigorous subset of producers who specialize in the category.”

These are often boutique businesses that source, dry and mill limited batches of timber for use in furniture of their own design and manufacture.

“Some larger sawmills sell liveedge slabs to the public,” Jovanovich continues. “You visit their showroom and pick your own one-of-a-kind piece of ash, cherry, red oak, walnut or whatever other hardwood species they have in

A single ash tree, sourced from a suburban yard by RE-CO BKLYN, supplied the live-edge counter and island tops in this kitchen. B P T

stock. A cabinetmaker can then custom-make a piece of furniture or a built-in feature to your exact specifications.”

Sustainability-minded entrepreneurs are responsible for another niche in the live-edge hardwood market: small urban suppliers that source culled or fallen trees from the backyards

of private homes, public parks, graveyards and other leafy locations in their city and its immediate environs. One such enterprise, RE-CO BKLYN in Brooklyn, New York, recently harvested four 12,000-pound logs from a 150-year-old storm-felled elm in nearby Prospect Park. The logs were taken to an upstate mill to

be sawn into live-edge slabs and dried before being shipped back to Brooklyn, where they were either sold or used by RE-CO for tables, desks, bar counters, shelves, headboards and other beautiful custom-made pieces it produces.

“It was George Nakashima, the legendary Japanese-American mid-century furniture maker, who pioneered the use of live-edge slabs in refined residential settings,” says New York-based designer Glenn Gissler.

“Previously, untrimmed wood planks, sometimes with the bark still intact, were used for rustic, log-cabin or ranch-house effects – elements that referenced the traditions, myths and aesthetics of the American Old West. With his gorgeous large-scale pieces, comprising multiple slabs of characterful woods like walnut and cherry connected with butterfly joints, Nakashima showed us how unfinished natural edges and richly figured knotted surfaces fit perfectly into even the most sophisticated urban interiors.”

Today, original Nakashima pieces are highly collectible and command high prices at auc-

tion. But his free-edge aesthetic is more influential than ever as homeowners discover the ability of live-edge furniture to work with almost any decorative style.

Paired with blackened-steel legs, for example, a live-edge slab of burled walnut creates a dining table with loft-worthy industrial chic. Fixed to the bedroom wall, a free-form expanse of warm-toned cherry provides a romantic headboard. Or a hefty live-edge slab of oak, supported on an equally hefty oak-slab base, makes for a monumental console with the presence of a piece of archaic sculpture.

New York-based designer Laura Bohn has even used the chainsawed cross-section of an elm trunk – complete with its bark – as a countertop on which to mount a stainless steel powder room sink.

“It introduces a decidedly rustic note into a thoroughly modern space,” she says. “And yet it looks perfectly natural, as if it had just grown there of its own accord.”

Visit www.HardwoodInfo.com for more about residential design trends and other applications and products using American hardwoods. (BPT)

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FALL RENOVATION GUIDE How to customize your kitchen on a budget Who wouldn’t want a kitchen customized to meet their specific tastes and needs? A complete kitchen renovation can cost tens of thousands of dollars, but you don’t have to spend a bundle to achieve a custom effect. A few modest investments can help make your kitchen work well and look great.

Here are ways to affordably customize your kitchen: G E T C R E AT I V E W I T H CABINETS

Completely replacing cabinets can be costly, but it’s possible to create a custom look with the cabinets you already have. Customization tricks to try: ■ Paint cabinets a trendy colour, like dark blue. Or, paint one set of

cabinets, such as those under an island, a different colour.

■ Remove the doors from one cupboard to create an open effect where you can display prized showpieces. Further accent the look by painting the back of the cupboard a contrasting colour.

■ Replace dated or dull hardware with drawer pulls and knobs that speak to your personal design tastes. For example, if you love a vintage look, replace metal hardware with glass or ceramic knobs.

F R E S H E N U P T H E FAU C E T

Cabinet hardware isn’ t the only “jewelry” in the kitchen.

The faucet can also be a design focal point that looks as good as

it works. If yours is old, basic or just not to your taste, replacing the kitchen faucet with a newer model that speaks to your style can help affordably reinvent the entire room. Plus, a new faucet can provide functions and features that will make your kitchen more usable.

For example, the Tournant faucet by Kohler combines traditional design with modern industrial elements, so it works well with a variety of kitchen design themes.

A three-func tion, pull-down spray head lets you put the water exactly where you need it, while a special BerrySoft setting is gentle enough for washing fruits and vegetables.

If a more vintage look appeals to you, Kohler has recently added

The Tournant faucet by Kohler features a three-function, pull-down spray head, with a special BerrySoft setting, gentle enough for washing fruits and vegetables. B P T

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F a bridge model faucet to its popular Artifacts line. Reminiscent of turn-of-the-century kitchen and bar faucets, the deck-mounted bridge faucet works with either lever or six-prong handles for temperature controls, and features a dual-function sidespray. Visit www.us.kohler.com to learn more.

tion lights along the track to put illumination where you want it.

■ Install under-cabinet lights that can easily plug into an existing counter-level electrical outlet.

■ Place a swing-arm task lamp over work areas, so you can aim light where you need it most while working. The lamp can easily plug into a wall outlet.

ENLIVEN YOUR LIGHTING

Good light is essential for a kitchen to function well, but it’s common for kitchens to have just one overhead light and maybe a pendant or two over a breakfast bar. Replacing dated fixtures with newer ones that suit your personal style is easy, but what can you do if you want more light without the expense of paying someone to install additional wiring?

■ Replace a standard ceiling light with track lights. They require no additional wiring and you can posi-

ACCENTUATE ACCESSORIES

Accessories are the finishing touch of personalization in any room, including the kitchen. However, since the kitchen needs to be high-functioning, look for ways to accesso rize that also enhance your kitchen’s ability to work for you.

■ Every kitchen has small appliances that get regular use, such as toasters, food processors, blenders, etc. If your toaster sits out on the counter, why not turn it into part of the design theme by selecting

an appliance in a bright colour to match your decor?

■ A matching set of potholders or dish towels hung from a hook beneath a cabinet or on the side of a cupboard not only puts a muchneeded item close at hand, they can add decorative flare.

■ Place a bright, cheerful area rug in front of the sink or prep area.

The rug will not only perk up the space, it helps cushion your joints while you stand in one spot working.

■ A pot rack above an island provides much-needed storage space for large pots and pans, while adding a homey touch to the kitchen.

Customizing a kitchen doesn’t have to be costly or require you to sacrifice any functionality. With a few smart updates, you can costeffectively create the personalized kitchen of your dreams. (BPT)

A great way to refresh your kitchen is to paint cabinets a trendy colour, like a dark blue or grey. Replacing the kitchen faucet will also boost style as well as functionality. BP T

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F Five questions to ask before renovating Are you planning an upcoming home improvement? If so, you are not alone.

Higher-than-average renovation spending is expected in 2017, according to a leading consumer magazine, with more than half of homeowners planning to spend money on home improvements throughout the year.

From upgrading appliances to gutting entire rooms, big projects can have a big impact on a home and on your wallet, so it’s important to approach any renovation with thoughtful intention.

To ensure you make the right decisions when it comes to large purchases and major home improvements, ask yourself these five questions: 1. How long do you plan to live in the home?

Knowing how long you expect to

live in your home can help you better navigate home improvements. If you only plan to live in your home for five years you’ll likely make different decisions than if it is your forever home.

2. What is your budget?

Home upgrades don’t come cheap, so it’s helpful to determine a budget before you start. Consider renovations and upgrades as a smart way to maintain your home investment. By putting money into your home, you are helping maintain its integrity, style, usefulness and value.

When setting a budget, you can pay out of pocket or take out a personal or home equity loan. Additionally, some companies offer lowinterest financing. If you plan to borrow for your project, make sure you clearly understand and are comfortable with payment terms.

Once you set a budget, stick to it.

Problems may arise that require unexpected additional costs, but often budget blowouts are from homeowners who start spending and the excitement of the project causes them to go beyond their means.

3. What purchases are worth the splurge?

Research and decide which purchases are worth spending more on. For example, appliances used nearly every day are a worthwhile investment – especially if they are more energy efficient and offer features that enhance your day-to-day routine. Rather than getting a basic washer, opt for the LG TWINWash™ 2-in-1 washer. It can run two loads at once, saving homeowners time and energy.

4. What is the ROI? The return on investment should

be considered in many ways for home improvements. First, check out reputable reports like the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report. For example, adding fiberglass attic insulation recoups 107.7 percent of the cost.

In addition to resale ROI, consider other ways you’ll get a return on your investment. Will your upgrade help you save energy and reduce your bills? Will it save you time and stress in daily life? Does it enhance your home’s aesthetic and flow?

These are other ROIs that are just as

valuable to consider as resale ROI. 5. What does the research say?

It’s worth your time to conduct research so you get the best outcome possible. Learn about materials to discover which is best for your lifestyle and research brands. If you’re hiring the project out, research contractors to find a reputable professional for the job.

Starting a home improvement project is exciting. Answering these questions will help ensure your time and financial investment are well spent. (BPT)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F Best lock options to keep your home secure With winter holidays fast approaching, your family may be spending more time at school concerts and family gatherings and less time at home. Based on data from Sonnet Insurance, homes are more vulnerable to break-ins and theft during the holiday season.

While your insurance provider has you covered in case of loss or damages, installing a good locking system can give you added protection and extra peace of mind.

Smart locks. Forgetting to lock the door or leaving your keys hanging in the lock are a thing of the past thanks to the wide variety of smart lock systems available on the market. Smart locks operate by using your smartphone and a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection and/or a remote app to access a

Smart locks will help you keep tabs on your home no matter where you are.

G E T TY I M AG E S

digital lock. Most smart locks are equipped with a secondary manual entry system in case you lose your phone or its battery dies. Getting a smart lock is the first step in building a smart home that allows you to keep tabs on your space no matter where you are.

Deadbolts. The most common deadbolt is a single cylinder, which operates with a key from the outside and twist-knob from the inside. If properly installed, high-quality deadbolt locks are known to provide superior protection against burglars since they can only be unlocked by physically turning the key or twist-knob, making them much less susceptible to tampering than springloaded doorknob locks. For the toughest protection, opt for dead-

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Basic doorknob locks. Doorknob locks are usually locked and unlocked from the inside, either by pushing and turning the doorknob, pushing a button or turning a dial in the knob. It’s not recommended to use a doorknob lock as your home’s primary locking system. If you are using a doorknob lock on an external door in your home, it’s best to strengthen it with a deadbolt for extra security.

Whichever lock system you choose, it’s important to keep your doors locked at all times to keep your home and family safe and secure. Break-ins can still happen, but that’s why home insurance is there to protect you when you need it most. (News Canada)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R FALL Double-duty rooms add living space While large homes remain popular, many people are embracing the benefits of smaller residences.

Small homes help homeowners save money, require less maintenance, have smaller environmental impact, and reduce the temptation to accumulate “stuff.”

Owners of small homes or apartments can still enjoy the benefits of larger spaces; they just need to equip rooms to perform double duty.

LIVING ROOM/GUEST ROOM

Entertaining guests is easier when there’s a dedicated space where visitors can feel at home.

When furnishing a living room, keep the guest room in mind. A sofa that opens up to a bed or a convertible sectional can be a comfortable place for guests to lay their heads.

Side tables provide guests with places to store their belongings, and an empty storage chest can house bed linens or guests’ clothing.

DEN/PLAYROOM

Children tend to accumulate toys and games. And as kids grow from children to young adults, their list of must-have items – from video gaming systems to other electronics – grows along with them. Storage can make a room functional for

both adults and children. Devote an entire wall to a closet or drawer system where toys can be stored out of sight when necessary. Storage ottomans can be used for extra seating while also providing somewhere for homeowners to stash stuffed animals or games for easy access.

When choosing furniture, look for fabrics that are resistant to stains and modular pieces that can be moved around as necessary to create room for playing or entertaining.

BEDROOM/HOME OFFICE

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A trundle sofa bed enables overnight guests to sleep comfortably right in the living room or den. M NS

ters, bedrooms may be the only available work area in the house.

An armoire-style desk will blend in with the decor and can hide paperwork and electronics behind doors.

Otherwise, a makeup vanity can serve the dual purpose of providing a place to get ready for a night out and a ready space to house a laptop during the day. (MNS)

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Each of our screen enclosures is custom built on-site and offers year round use. Even throughout the winter, it will keep your deck area free of snow to ensure the enjoyment of your spa or barbeque all year long. In addition, there are several features that can be added to your Screen Enclosure, such as: Custom Colours, 3 Season Windows, a Powered Louvered Roof and of course, A Doggy Door.

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL Design a Pinterest-perfect home As cooler temperatures have us spending more time indoors, check out these tips to make every room in your home inviting.

Kitchen. Bring some country charm to the most popular space for every family by incorporating the trendy farmhouse style.

This budget-friendly look is all about rustic and repurposed, so give new life to an old bar stool with a fresh coat of paint or try reclaimed shiplap instead of tiles.

Finish off with natural touches like wooden or woven baskets and flowers or plants.

Bathroom. A rejuvenating,

luxurious home spa is the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Make your own with a neutral colour palette, plush towels and bathrobes, and pampering must-haves like essential oils and scented candles. Soothing features like a romantic claw-foot tub and towel warmer complete the relaxing vibes.

Living room. Freshen up the space with a dramatic colour on the walls or in accessories – a deep navy on a statement wall works as a surprising neutral.

At the window, replace heavy draperies that block views and natural light sources with pared-

down window treatments that let in light without looking dated.

Pirouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas are a sophisticated choice for both traditional and contemporary rooms and feature soft horizontal fabric vanes attached to a single sheer backing, which allow for enhanced views to the outside while maintaining privacy.

Bedroom. Cozy comfort is crucial for a calming bedroom.

A carefully curated messy look that’s lived-in and personalized with your favourite items is low maintenance and welcoming while still being on-trend. Keep

Replace heavy draperies that block views and natural light with contemporary window shadings. N E W S C A NA DA

blankets in pretty prints on hand, display stacks of books, and hang an eclectic mix of wall art for an

easy laidback aesthetic. Blackout shades are a must for a good night’s sleep. (News Canada)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F Quality building materials stand the test of time

BY SCOT T MCGILLIVRAY

We’re fortunate in Canada to be protected by strong building codes that ensure our homes are safe and efficient. Building codes set out what we need to achieve and standards that need to be met, but typically, the choice of building materials remains at the discretion of the homeowner or contractor. That’s where potential lies to either get things right or to make costly mistakes. That’s because not all building materials are created equal. And one of the riskiest places to cut corners is with what’s behind c. Black-your walls. or a good When it comes to budgets, many ada) people mistakenly believe that what

you don’t see doesn’t really matter, and instead opt to focus on finishes.

Yet, the opposite is true. Take insulation, for example. Some insulation materials can settle and compact over time, affecting the R-value. Others are susceptible to mould and mildew should they come into contact with moisture, which can create serious air quality issues, impacting occupant health. I always advocate using quality building materials that will stand the test of time and conditions.

It’s best to seek a product that provides multiple advantages, like Roxul Comfortbatt, Safe ‘n’ Sound and Comfortboard insulation. Non-combustible and made from inorganic materials, this insulation will not only resist

ignition when exposed to fire, it won’t contribute to harmful smoke or toxic gases. Instead, it will slow the spread of fire, protecting escape routes to provide extra time to get to safety. Inorganic stone wool also resists moisture and is ideal for basement applications or areas with higher humidity. It offers great thermal performance and sound resistance, and is easy to install, cutting with a simple bread knife.

Importantly, it’s also dimensionally stable, which means it will stay in place to provide durability and performance over the life of the building.

I always recommend choosing quality materials over lesser options. Cheap alternatives may seem attractive at first, but rarely prove

so over the long run. Quality materials should offer a variety of benefits.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Does it help with fire safety? Is it sustainable and environmentally friendly?

Will it perform? Will it last? How will it impact air quality, occupant comfort, and efficiency? Materials matter, and when you consider lifecycle costs, quality products are usually the better choice. Ultimately, no one wants to replace or repair something down the road that should have gone the distance.

Scott McGillivray is the host of the hit HGTV series Income Property and Moving the McGillivrays, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. (News Canada)

Not all insulation materials are created equal, warns TV renovation expert Scott McGillivray. NEWS CANADA

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL An energy efficient furnace is a happy furnace

BY MIKE SHIPLACK

That furnace in your basement is pretty amazing. All day, every day, no matter if you’re asleep or awake, that rectangular metal box continually clicks on to keep your family warm and prevents your house from looking like a scene from the last season of Game of Thrones.

You might think of your furnace as ‘Old Faithful’, but are you doing enough to ensure it’s running efficiently? When was the last time you checked on it? If you can’t remember, then now might be a good time to sneak a peek in the basement. And don’t forget that the duct work also plays a huge role in keeping your home toasty warm.

“Key indicators that your furnace isn’t working include rising gas bills, inconsistent temperatures and abnormal noises, like if you notice a tick that wasn’t there before,” explains Robert Bodnar, co-owner of Variety Plumbing and Heating.

After nine years as a journeyman plumber and gasfitter and 14 years working in the trade, Bodnar has seen his fair share of Regina furnaces. He estimates that about 50 per cent of Regina homes don’t have a new furnace, but with initiatives like the ENERGY STAR® Loan Program from SaskEnergy and SaskPower, lower income households can start making more energy efficient

Winter’s just around the corner! Now’s the time to have an expert inspect your furnace to ensure your family stays warm during the cold months ahead. G E T T Y I M AG E S

choices.

Bodnar points out that older furnaces run at 65 to 70 per cent efficiency. A new furnace in perfect operating condition operates at 98 per cent efficiency.

Industry experts estimate that new energy efficient furnaces can reduce natural gas costs by as much as 35 to 40 per cent, depending on the homeowner’s usage.

Upgrading your furnace can also improve air quality in your home.

“Right off the bat with a new furnace, people will notice an improved quality of air flow. And if they recently replaced carpet with laminate or hardwood floors then they will

notice their furnace filter gets dirtier sooner cause the dust goes right into the vents,” says Bodnar.

When upgrading to a high efficiency furnace, it’s also important to monitor and adjust the ventilation in your home. Bodnar explains that energy efficient furnaces draw combustion air from outside the house, altering humidity levels within the home. Excess humidity can result in condensation forming on windows, which can lead to mold on sills and drywall. “Humidity levels should be monitored. Installing a proper ventilation system is recommended,” he says.

“It is also important to combine a new furnace with a digital thermostat to further increase efficiency and reduce short

cycling.”

A Wi-Fi capable thermostat can help homeowners save money as it lowers the temperature when no one is around and heats the house before the kids get home from school. They also offer low temperature email alerts so if the furnace fails while the homeowners are on holiday, they can have someone can check the furnace before serious damages occurs.

Regardless if that furnace is brand new, or was first installed when Prime Minister Trudeau (Senior) took office, regular maintenance is key to a happy furnace.

Bodnar recommends that homeowners replace the furnace filter every month – don’t forget to install it right side up!

“There are also a few things homeowners

should not do to or have around a furnace. One thing we often see is a litter box around the furnace. Trust me, you don’t want that kind of air quality being sucked into the duct system. Make sure venting is sealed, more specifically to make sure dryer vent connections are sealed with no broken connections as lint and fibres can make their way inside the furnace. And finally, no chemicals or flammable items should be around any gas appliance,” says Bodnar.

He also recommends that all homeowners have a carbon monoxide detector installed. “If people don’t want to spend the money to fix the furnace the least they can do is get a carbon monoxide detector to keep the family safe.”

Before winter kicks in, call on the experts at Variety Plumbing & Heating to do a furnace check and inspection. They will do a hands-on examination of your furnace, including checking the heat exchanger, blower compartment, burners, motor and fan, to ensure it’s in optimum condition for the cold weather ahead.

For homeowners interested in replacing their aging heating system, Variety Plumbing & Heating will provide a free quote on a new energyefficient furnace. Visit varietyplumbing.com for details.

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FALL RENOVATION GUIDE Tips for hiring a great renovation contractor Home renovations can be one of the biggest single expenses most people take on, and the success of your project depends a lot on the contractor you choose. Yet some put more thought into selecting a shirt than they do to finding a contractor worthy of trust. So how can you hire intelligently? A little work ahead of time makes all the difference.

Check out references. The results of every contractor’s work are plain to see, but only if you look. Ask for at least three references from every contractor you are considering, then follow up with questions to these previous clients before making a final choice. Was the project on time? On budget? Is the homeowner pleased with the results?

Professional contractors always work with a written contract that includes a detailed project plan. G E T T Y I M AG E S

How responsive was the contractor to call-backs? Never hire simply because you feel good about someone — do the work needed to check their past performance. This is the best indication of how they will do on your project.

Get it in writing. Would you buy a car based on a verbal agreement, with no written warranty or ownership papers? Of course not.

So, don’t invest in a home renovation without getting everything in writing. A written contract should ensure that payments are tied to reasonable milestones of completion. It should specify what fittings and fixtures will be used on the project and it should clearly state what is warranted and for how long. These are just some of

the things that need to be laid out in black and white before agreeing to anything.

Be a good client. As a homeowner, you can make a positive contribution to the success of your project. Avoid changing your mind about details in the middle of the project, for example. Even if you do agree to pay extra for change orders, no diligent contractor likes to tear out something they’ve already built. And understand that if you do find a change necessary, you must be prepared to pay extra for it.

Take the guesswork out of hiring a contractor with the Canadian Home Builder’s Association’s free and unbiased information. Find it at www.getitinwriting.ca. (News Canada)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L L A F How to get top dollar for your rental suite

BY SCOT T MCGILLIVRAY

a homepositiveI’ve sold and rented more ccess ofthan my fair share of real esging yourtate over my career. To get the e middlemost from my investments, ple. EvenI’ve come to know what extra forworks and what doesn’t. ent con-While a lot of variables can omethinginfluence a property’s potend under-tial, one of the biggest is wow a changefactor. How your home or preparedrental suite shows to perspective buyers or renters is hugeut of hir-ly important, because you the Can-really want them to make an Associa-emotional connection with informa-your property. itinwrit- Here are a few ways to make sure that happens:

1. Make it modern. Nothing kills a property’s potential faster than the feeling that it’s tired or dated. But, it doesn’t always take a fullscale renovation to achieve a transformation. A fresh coat of paint on walls or cabinets, a new countertop, revitalized flooring, new hardware or cabinet pulls and good lighting can all take a space from boring to brilliant.

2. Make it shine. A clean home or income suite suggests to prospective buyers or renters that it’s well maintained, creating all-important peace of mind. Before the property goes to market, vacuum, dust, wash floors

Scott McGillivray hosts numerous hit HGTV series, including Income Properties. N E WS CANADA

and baseboards, clean all surfaces, including inside closets and cupboards. To remove dirt or stains on carpet and upholstery, use a spot cleaning appliance like the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner. Unlike other models, it includes a self-cleaning option for the hose to prevent grime and odours from building up inside the unit.

3. Give it curb appeal.

Cut the lawn, power wash the driveway and walkways, pull weeds, plant flowers, and trim trees and shrubs. Stage outdoor areas to appear as an extension of indoor living spaces, so buyers or renters

can picture themselves relaxing or entertaining there.

4. Keep it open. Another deal-killer is clutter. When staging, remove bulky furniture and personal possessions. Let as much natural light in as possible. Open, airy and bright spaces are definitely more sought-after.

5. Tell a story. Set your table so buyers can imagine the perfect dinner after a long day at work or stage the bath like a dream home spa. The idea is to make your home or space feel like it could provide the lifestyle they’re aspiring towards.

(News Canada)

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL Rubber paving: Good for your driveway, good for the environment

BY MIKE SHIPLACK

Back in the day, whenever a driveway cracked and crumbled, there wasn’t much a person could do other than spend days digging out old concrete and repaving it new.

That kind of work isn’t easy and it’s expensive, especially considering the labour costs associated with digging up a ton of concrete.

That is no longer the case thanks to companies like Prairie Rubber Paving. Not only can they resurface any driveway in a single day, their rubber surfaces are safer, incredibly durable and easy to fix. Homeowners can choose from a spectrum of colours that will make the neighbours jealous.

“We are saving people from having to rip out existing concrete, send it to the landfill and then pour fresh concrete that will likely crack in a few years anyways,” says Corey Redstone, president of Prairie Rubber Paving. “Depending on the colours you want, our costs are similar to pouring fresh concrete but you need to remember that you’re not ripping out old concrete. So overall we are usually about half the cost.”

So what’s in a sheet of rubber pavement? Prairie Rubber Paving uses a patented rubber system called Rubber FX. It is the strongest rubber system on the market, and it’s also non-toxic so it’s safe for playgrounds and pools. They use an ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber that doesn’t stain, leave an odour or dry out over time. They also use a high quality binder that will keep the colour from fading. The material is strong enough to handle harsh winters including salt and shoveling. It also doesn’t ice up, so it’s safer to walk on than normal concrete or asphalt.

“I love working with this type of product because there is always something to learn. We keep developing new ways to apply it and find new products to continually improve our services. Over the last few years we’ve been diving into playground safety and more community projects that are looking for a durable surface that is also safe, easy to walk on and easy to clean,” says Redstone.

Part of the learning process is finding out different ways to apply the product in a more environmentally friendly way. For example, Prairie Rubber Paving will often use recycled material to create a strong base layer that fills in all the cracks, pits and crevasses that can plague standard driveways. They then apply a layer of EPDM rubber to create a top layer that is more durable and will last longer than recycled material.

“Our common compliments often come from the neighbours cause they can’t believe it is the same driveway. We do get a lot of questions about snow blowing and shoveling, and I can tell you that we wouldn’t be resurfacing this many driveways if it couldn’t handle the snow. The rubber does harden-up in the winter, but snow and ice doesn’t bond to it so it’s easier to clean. It works with snow blowers too, but you do need to watch out for raised or exposed edges.”

And if the rubber on the driveway is damaged, Prairie Rubber Paving has a three-year comprehensive warranty and five years against cracking. And repairing the rubber surface is easy. Just cut out the affected area so there is a nice clean seam, mix-up a batch of Rubber FX and trowel it in. Done.

Rubber FX is also versatile and can be used on multiple surfaces like stairs, decks, walkways and

The experts at Prairie Rubber Paving can resurface your driveway in a single day. P R A I R I E RU B B E R PAV I NG

even poolside. Prairie Rubber Paving is just as flexible, especially considering where they can install it.

“There are not many places that we won’t go during the summer months. We love going to rural communities, they are just as important as our customers in Saskatoon, Regina and Moose Jaw. Often when we show up to a rural area everyone knows we are there. We’ll often spend a few days in one place with the amount of interest we get from folks,” says Redstone.

Although Rubber FX can’t be installed during the winter, now is a great time to call for a quote and make plans to update that old driveway to look brand new.

Learn more at prairierubberpaving.ca.

The company’s patented rubber system is non-toxic, so it’s safe for playgrounds and pools. P R A I R I E RU B B E R PAV I NG

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E ID U G N IO T A V O N E R L FAL Postpone autumn’s chill with a Suncoast Enclosure

BY WENDY LIVINGST ONE

With the shivery-cold days of fall upon us, the warm glow of summer is just a fading memory. Not so fast, say homeowners who have turned to Suncoast Enclosures to add a three-season sun room or screen room to their back yards.

Suncoast Enclosures can turn decks, patios and just about any other outdoor space into an oasis that can be enjoyed for three glorious seasons – even in Saskatchewan.

Don Larwood, general manager of Suncoast Enclosures Saskatchewan, says his company custom builds three-season sun rooms and screen rooms to suit home and commercial building owners’ individual spaces or purposes. The structures, which can be free-standing or constructed up against buildings, don’t need special foundations or pilings and can be placed on just about any surface, such as wooden decks, concrete pads, paving stones or wooden timbers, provided that the walls can be fastened down.

Larwood’s company has constructed an enclosure as small as three feet by four feet – just large enough for the homeowner to retrieve the daily paper without worrying about snow on the front steps – and as large as 3,600 square feet for the owners of a residence in Lumsden. Most homeowners, however, choose enclosures that are somewhere in-between, usually about 12 feet by 16 feet.

The choices are not limited merely to size. The use of varied materials can determine whether the enclosure serves to simply keep the mosquitos and wasps at bay or if it is to act as a three-season extension of the home’s living space.

Homeowners who want an insect-free environment without hindering the view choose the lightest screen available. It is very transparent and allows those beautiful prai-

Suncoast Enclosures can turn decks, patios and just about any other outdoor space into an oasis that can be enjoyed for three glorious seasons – even in Saskatchewan. S H AW N F U LT O N P H O T O G R A P H Y

rie breezes to pass freely through.

The second grade of screen blocks 65 per cent of the wind and 85 per cent of the sun’s UV rays. “It reflects heat to help keep the area cool.

Virtually no snow blows through, but you do get a bit of rain blowing through it, and is still very, very easy to see through,” says Larwood.

Those who want more privacy opt for Suncoast’s densest screen.

It stops 90 per cent of wind and 85 per cent of UV rays. “It keeps the wind out and keeps the heat out completely,” says Larwood. “It’s a little bit darker and acts as a privacy screen – you can see out quite well, but people cannot see in because it looks like a black wall.”

Any of Suncoast’s screen enclosures can be fitted with removeable vinyl windows, which have the appearance of a single piece of glass but are much stronger. The windows make the enclosure a true threeseason extension of the home’s living space but are so light that a costly foundation does not have to be built.

Four tracks built into the frame allow three upper panes to slide downwards and bes stored behind the bottom pane when their additional protection is not needed.

Suncoast’s clients are also able to choose from several roofing options, each with its own advantages.

Screen, a common choice of roofing material for swimming pool enclosures, is the best selection for those who want optimum air circulation. Screen allows rain to fall through, though, so polycarbonate is often chosen instead to cover living areas. “The polycarbonate gives you a waterproof roof and it comes in white, silver and clear. The white and the silver are both 100 per cent UV-blocking, so they reflect heat but still let light into the building,” says Larwood.

A third option, the louvred roof, can be free-standing or used in conjunction with an enclosure. Controlled with a hand-held remote and charged by a solar panel, it allows home, cottage or restaurant

owners to block out rain and sun, thus protecting objects and people from water and harmful UV rays.

The louvres can be opened to appreciate the warming effects of the daytime sun or to gaze at a spectacular nighttime sky. Louvred roofs, constructed from maintenance-free, powder-coated aluminum, are covered by a 10-year warranty, and are designed to complement the style of the existing building.

Regardless of the type of structure or its size, all of Suncoast’s enclosures (including the fibreglass screens, which are actually part of the structure itself ) are strong

enough to withstand whatever assault the prairie climate might offer, barring, perhaps, tornados. “Every one of our buildings has an engineered roof with a lifetime warranty for snow loads and winds,” says Larwood.

He adds that residential or commercial property owners have few regrets when they have a Suncoast enclosure installed. Their only lament: “Why did we wait so long?”

For further information, visit Suncoast Enclosures’ showroom at 3401 A Pasqua Street or visit www. suncoastenclosures.com/Saskatchewan.

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OUTSTANDING BEAUTY, OUTSTANDING FUNCTION VIPEQ’S Thermal CorkShield™ FROM SASK ECO SOLUTIONS

Unlike brick or stucco, the product crack-proof and essentially maintenance free, and comes with a 10-year warranty when applied by a certified applicator. The cost of application is comparable to new stucco – and much cheaper when figure in the energy savings.

AFTER

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t sounds too good to be true- a spray on coating for homes and businesses that is flexible, durable, maintenance free, fire retardant, lightweight, hypo-allergenic, mildewresistant, water resistant, an acoustic insulator.

On top of that, it’s a thermal insulator that could BEFORE save you up to 40 percent on your heating and cooling bills.

As expected, Schaffer is finding “a ton of interest at Arbitration and other trade shows from the people who want it on their projects, and also wanting to get into business with us. “He’s always thinking up new uses – inside trailers, in basement, shops and garages, and between floors. Farmers are particularly interested i using it on metal sheds to make them cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Vipeq’s Thermal Cork spray offers function and beauty in one amazing substance. It’s no wonder Schaffer is obsessed. Contact Sask Eco Solutions to learn more, and you may be, too.

But it’s no a pipe dream. Available through Sask Eco Solutions. Vipeq’s Thermal CorkShield™ has been tried and tested in Europe for 20 years and the US for 10 years, run through the wringer in laboratories - and given the seal of approval by Canada’s most trusted home contractor, Mike Holmes. Created in Spain, the product was introduced to the Canadian public last June Sask Eco Solutions manager Adam Schaffer says this followed three years of testing by Holmes in “vigorous Canadian conditions.”

Schaffer admits to being “obsessed” with the product. “You’re totally renewing the look of your house, protecting it, providing insulation, providing a fire retardant… and it looks good too. People are just amazed.” Because it can be applied over almost any existing surface – plywood, metal, siding and stucco – refurbishing and renovations are currently the main market for this impressive product. However, a Harmony Builders show home will introduce it to the new-home market this spring.

Cork, a renewable resource that forms on cork trees just beneath the external bark and can he harvested every few years without harming the tree is made up of filled cells.

In fact, 88 percent of its total volume is air, causing it to be both extremely lightweight and an exceptional insulator. As a “thermal break” on the outside of a house, it makes existing insulation more effective by interrupting the conduction of heat through the walls.

Depending on the size of the job, application takes just a few days, with the most of that time spent preparing the surface. There are 20 colours in stock – with the option of creating custom colours – so trim can also be treated. The colours fade by no more than one per cent a year, Schaffer adds. “This is 10 times slower than any other paint or Stucco on the market right now.”

SASKECOSOLUTIONS.COM

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