Edmonton Home Decor & Renovations - May/Jun 2016

MAY - JUNE 2016 VOLUME 14, ISSUE 3, FREE EDMONTON EDITION

TALKING LUXURY WITH

Sarah Richardson Renovating with the environment in mind!

PLUS IN THIS ISSUE

Hot trends in concrete:

Outdoor kitchens

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION » PROFESSIONAL RENOVATORS

RENOVATION BY: RENCON INDUSTRIES INC.

DO IT RIGHT… HIRE A PROFESSIONAL RENOVATOR. GET IT DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME Choosing a recognized professional renovator is the best decision you can make when renovating your home! Being an informed and knowledgeable consumer is essential and since 2007 RenoMark has raised the bar by identifying renovation contractors in the Edmonton Area who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Code of Ethics and a renovationspecific Code of Conduct.

Renovate with confidence – hire a CHBA-Edmonton Region RenoMark renovator for your next renovation and embrace the renovation process with a sense of security and peace of mind.

For more information on CHBA-ER, RenoMark or to access a complete list of CHBA-ER & RenoMark members visit www.renomark.ca/EdmontonRegion

THIS ISSUE’S PARTICIPATING MEMBERS:

Ph. (780) 481-7671 www.aquarianrenovations.com

Ph. (780) 660-1026 www.fortresshomes.ca

Ph. (780) 986-2160 www.renconindustries.ca

Ph. (780) 435-6304 www.serenitycontracting.ca

Ph. (780) 465-8071 www.revolvingrooms.ca

Ph. (780) 244-0504 www.acutaboveliving.com

Ph. (780) 454-1513 www.coogeeconstruction.ca

Ph. (780) 479-6032 www.homestyleconstruction.ca

Ph. (780) 434-0923 www.innovationplus.ca

Ph. (780) 433-3166 www.diamondcontractingab.ca

Ph. (780) 414-0686 www.ackard.com

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF MEMBER CONTRACTORS CALL (780) 425-1020 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.RENOMARK.CA/EDMONTONREGION

contents

V O LU M E 14 I S S U E 0 3

MAY - JUNE 2016

Cover Story

Sarah Richardson: Luxury is in the eye of the beholder

by Elisa Krovblit

8

pg

10

12

In every issue

HD&R features

6 Editor’s Notebook

10 Hot trends in concrete:

business profiles 15 Benjamin Matthew Contracting

Outdoor kitchens

By RenĂŠe Majeau

12 Feature A Beautiful renovation begins with the end in mind

by Marie Soprovich

20 14 RenoMark Renovating with the environment in mind!

18 Decoding The Code

by Michael Nyikes

20 Feature Views in your home that pay you back

by Al Dueck and Aynsley Dueck

Editor’s Notebook

MAY - JUNE 2016 VOLUME 14 ISSUE 03 President, YP NextHome

Jacqueline Hill Editor-In-Chief / Director of Content

Susan Legge Director of Sales, National

Moe Lalani Art Director

Megan Pike

WITH WARMER DAYS HERE TO STAY, now is the perfect time to get started on your home improvement projects. Whether you are taking on a major renovation or just looking to refresh your home’s décor, this issue is full of ideas, inspiration, and expert advice to guide you along the way.

Gracing our cover this issue is someone who needs no introduction…. design authority Sarah Richardson is back! We caught up with Sarah, who has a new design book “At Home: Sarah Style”, and asked her about luxury, lifestyle and what makes a house a home. To Sarah, luxury is in the eye of the beholder and inside she shares with us the top five affordable luxuries that make her love being home.

We also take a look at hot trends in concrete, the benefits of high performance windows and doors, as well as join new home owners’ on their renovation journey. These stories and more are awaiting you on the pages inside.

Home Décor & Renovations Magazine is proud to announce the winners of the Renovation Awards at the CHBA-ER Awards of Excellence, which took place on Saturday March 19 at the Shaw Conference Centre.

The following renovators have been recognized as the best in the industry: Best Exterior Renovation: Alair Homes - Chrenek Acres Best Renovation under $200,000: Aquarian Renovations - Blue Quill Residence Best Renovation $200,000 to $500,000: Ackard Contractors - Highlands Best Renovation over $500,000: Alair Homes - Chrenek Acres Renovator of the Year: Ackard Contractors Ltd. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists!

Home Décor & Renovations is always free and is available across the Greater Edmonton Region at participating retailers and in our yellow street boxes. If you have any comments or have a renovation story you wish to share, please write us – we would love to hear from you.

Happy Renovating!

NANCY CHEMAIT EDITOR, YP NEXTHOME nancy.chemait@ypnexthome.ca

Editor/Account Executive

Nancy Chemait 780.619.3241 Production Manager

Bala Gnanapandithan Production Co-Ordinator

Dennis Ng Contributors

Shell Busey Sara Duck Elisa Krovblit Michael Nyikes Salina Yara Halabi Marie Soprovich

Home Decor & Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Decor & Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Edmonton and Greater Edmonton area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Decor & Renovations magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative.

The advertising herein, including the photographs and all artwork is the property of Home Decor & Renovations magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in Home Decor & Renovations magazine only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad in whole or in part in any other place or publication without the consent of the publisher.

The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright and are intended for the sole use of the public.

WE’RE LISTENING! Send us your comments, questions, renovation stories, pictures and great ideas! home decor & renovations PO Box 458 Station Main Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2K1

Follow us on twitter: twitter.com/YPNextHome Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/HomeDecorandReno

Want more news on the home, decor and reno front?

Check out our site: ypnexthome.ca 6 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Published by

The coverage you need. The partner you trust.

Is My Renovation

PROTECTED?

YES…

if your renovator is a Member of The Alberta Renovation Warranty Program.

INNOVATION PLUS DEVELOPMENTS LIMITED

*Your renovation project must be enrolled with the Program to be guaranteed third-party warranty coverage

Next issue ad deadline JUN. 13, 2016

1 800 352 8240 | anhwp.com anhwp.com

Edmonton Renovations Home Improvement & Design reaches more qualified readers than any other home improvement publication. Our readers are looking for project ideas and connections to professionals that specialize in home improvement, design and construction. Within our colourful, informative format, we can highlight your business, product or service in the best possible way: with creative advertising and/ or informative articles and profiles. It’s the best way to get your business the valuable exposure it needs!

Distribution starts JUL. 1, 2016

MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 7

Cover Story

LUXURY

IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

SARAH RICHARDSON

By Elisa Krovblit | Photos by Stacey Brandford

SARAH RICHARDSON HAS ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE NAMES IN THE DESIGN WORLD. ROOM SERVICE. DESIGN INC. SARAH’S COTTAGE. SARAH’S HOUSE. SARAH 101. REAL POTENTIAL. THESE HGTV PROGRAMS HAVE BROUGHT SARAH INTO THE LIVING ROOMS OF PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD FOR OVER 10 YEARS, AND IN THAT TIME, SARAH HAS CREATED A FOLLOWING OF FANS THAT ADORE HER STYLE AND HER EXUBERANCE, TAKING TIPS, IDEAS AND JUST INDULGING IN SARAH’S BEAUTIFUL DESIGN. HOME DECOR & RENOVATIONS CAUGHT UP WITH SARAH TO ASK HER A FEW THINGS ABOUT LUXURY, LIFESTYLE AND THE THINGS THAT MAKE SARAH’S HOUSE A HOME.

8 YPNEXTHOME.CA

S

arah has let us step into her home both on TV and in her gorgeous new design book, At Home: Sarah Style.

Room by room, home by home – from city home to farmhouse and cottage getaways – we get to explore the spaces Sarah has created to enjoy with her family. It’s not a designer putting favourite projects forward, it’s a designer living her design, showing the way she embraces these elements and executes them to meet her family’s needs. From furniture to art, from colour palette to material choices, little details, big design elements and the view, Sarah has put her expertise to work to create the perfect project for an especially important client – her family.

After looking at these beautiful spaces and wonderful escapes, Home Decor & Renovation had a chance to ask Sarah about her sense of luxury.

“I haven’t said ‘luxury’ as many times in the past month as I’ve said in this interview,” Sarah remarks halfway through our discussion. It’s quite a significant comment, and clarifies her perspective in one concise moment. Sarah explains that she isn’t about labels or grandeur or “bling” or big shows of ostentation; and too often that’s what we envision when we envision luxury.

“I believe in little luxuries,” Sarah says.

“I’m not into luxury for the sake of luxury.”

Art is a favourite item she feels is a luxury.

Sarah’s top 5

“Art is all encompassing,” she says. It’s not the price point, but the intrinsic value that makes it a luxury. “Something that speaks to you, created with passion and purpose. Regardless of budget, the biggest investment in luxury is the art.”

Not just big canvases, “it can be a vase – hand-made by an artisan,” she says.

Supporting the arts and those that create these beautiful objects is important, “not disposable, mass market items.”

When looking at our homes, where we put our money, she explains, from a project perspective is “Big ticket living – investing in kitchens and baths.” But when it comes down to luxury, those rooms don’t define a home. It’s the way you complete the home that brings in that luxury. One of Sarah’s favourite spaces is the living room of her city house, “because I was able to find some really great vintage pieces. A Milo Baughman chaise (pictured left) and chairs, and a Willy Rizzo coffee table (pictured first page). It’s a luxury to be able to score unique pieces.”

One other luxury Sarah feels benefits everyone is the luxury of having somewhere to get away. “Having another place to go,” she explains, is important.

While Sarah really appreciates her homeaway-from-home escapes, she also views travel, just getting away and taking time, as being the real luxury.

“Luxury is all relative,” Sarah says, as we

A look through At Home: Sarah Style is a wonderful tour of the homes in Sarah’s life.

These include her city home – both before and after a major renovation – a cottage, a farmhouse and her mother’s home. Each fulfills a different use, a different need and the design is effective in committing those roles. From playful and funky to sophisticated and elegant, the pages are full of incredible imagery with anecdotal explanations from Sarah. The recipes are wonderful too. You won’t know what you did without the Cosmic Sandwich in your life.

wind down the discussion. Paring down life to its most simple elements, having things to appreciate and time to enjoy one’s life are definitely the luxuries Sarah appreciates. When I ask Sarah if she has anything else to say about luxury, her response captured our discussion perfectly. She told me “Luxury is in the eye of the beholder.”

affordable luxuries that make her love being home

1. Stealing some quiet time on a weekend afternoon beside a crackling fire to dive into a new issue of a design magazine with my feet up while I’m covered in a cozy throw (I’m adding some beautiful loomed cotton throws to my product line for early summer).

2. A steaming hot giant Nespresso latte in a mug that was hand painted by one of our daughters. Beautiful form mixed with great function has made me the owner of a Nespresso in every kitchen; work and home, city and country.

3. Thoughtfully made and passionately crafted decorative arts. In every room of our house there are sentimental handmade pieces that are sculpturally beautiful but not necessarily decadent or expensive. Investing in pretty little affordable luxuries and supporting talented artisans makes me happy.

4. Candlelight. Nothing is more calming and relaxing at the end of a busy work day than a room bathed in the glow of candlelight. Candles aren’t for special occasions in our home. They are a daily necessity. It’s the little things that matter.

5. Fresh flowers. The finishing touch to any well-designed room is something lovely and living. I don’t have time to get to the flower store and treat myself often, but I always have potted orchids to brighten up my rooms. Whether you get them at the grocery store or the florist, potted orchids are an inexpensive floral choice that will bloom for about four months!

MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 9

Style Inspiration concrete is an ideal choice for outdoor countertop surfaces as well as flooring and even furniture for the outdoor kitchen area.

HOT TRENDS IN CONCRETE:

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

By Renée Majeau, City MiniMix Concrete Inc.

IN RECENT YEARS, the concept of indoor-outdoor living has exploded to become one of the hottest trends in home décor and design. With more and more homeowners looking to get yearround enjoyment out of their yards and to create attractive yet functional outdoor living and entertaining spaces, concrete is playing an increasingly important role in landscape design and architecture.

Because concrete is durable, versatile and easy to maintain, it is a natural choice for outdoor living spaces in any climate.

Whether you are considering building an outdoor kitchen, installing a fire feature or revamping your entertaining space, the many decorative options, colours and textures of concrete will allow you to customize the look and function of your backyard project while not breaking the bank.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS According to City MiniMix Concrete Inc., a local leader in managing backyard projects, kitchens will be the most 10 YPNEXTHOME.CA

popular outdoor living trend in 2016.

Kent Majeau, co-owner of City MiniMix, says “People are becoming more sophisticated in terms of how they want their outdoor kitchens to look and feel.

They want their outdoor kitchens to become the “heart” of their backyard, an extension of their homes and a beautiful place to cook, eat and entertain family and friends. Using concrete, the design options for outdoor kitchen spaces are endless.”

Like any landscaping project, the size and scope of an outdoor kitchen is best determined by thinking about how you intend to use it – how many people will you need to accommodate? What are your entertaining needs and personal tastes? What is your budget? Depending on scope and budget, outdoor kitchens range from small areas with a simple barbecue to elaborate, fully equipped kitchens with features like integrated trash bins, ice chests and cabinetry that add convenience and luxury.

No matter your scope or budget,

CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS Concrete countertops are perfect for outdoor kitchens because they are extremely durable and a classy addition to both traditional and modern kitchens.

They provide a sturdy, easy-to-clean area for prepping food, barbecuing or entertaining and they stand up to UV light, harsh outdoor elements and resist cracking and wear.

Concrete can offer a wide variety of customization, from embedded rocks to any colour of pigment and staining, allowing homeowners to personalize their countertops according to the style and design they prefer. Concrete countertops also allow you to seamlessly integrate a backsplash and to mimic the look of many other materials, saving money for those who admire pricier options but have a limited budget.

Renée Majeau is co-owner of City MiniMix Concrete, a locally owned concrete manufacturing and delivery company who also manages any concrete project, big or small. For more information, visit www.cityminimix.com

• Quality Concrete • Small Batches • At Your Door Small Batch Specialists Small Trucks for Easy Access Free Technical Advice Ideal for DIY + Contractors Prompt, Friendly + Reliable

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Feature

BEFORE

A beautiful renovation begins

WITH THE END IN MIND

by Marie Soprovich Owner Aquarian Renovations

WHEN HOMEOWNERS MATT AND KIM WERE LOOKING to purchase a house they already had a renovation in mind. Purchasing a great home in an older neighbourhood brings a wonderful benefits to both the homeowner and their family and this couple was drawn to the house and the community. In addition to securing a home that was already integrated into an established and well respected neighbourhood, they realized that they would have a shorter commute to work and established schools for their children. Their yard would be much larger and more private with gardening as a real possibility. Planning a renovation also created an opportunity for the natural beauty of the existing house to be transformed into the dream home they've always wanted. Limited only by imagination and perhaps budget, Matt and Kim realized that they could have all these things and more with a good renovation.

12 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Matt and Kim scouted out more than one house that would fit the criteria they had in mind before they made the offer. Being proactive and conscientious investors they also scouted out a renovation company they wanted to work with. Information from their due diligence guided their decision making and they found just the right house for their family needs. Kim states, “We bought this house knowing that a renovation was required. We had looked at other houses and Aquarian had even given us an estimate for a renovation on another house before we made an offer on our current home.”

With a desire to return their Midcentury home to its former glory and a little bit more, Matt and Kim worked with the design team at Aquarian to draw up the plans for a beautiful newly renovated home. They knew there were some things that needed repair and there were some features that they really wanted to

enhance the lifestyle and modern look they desired. “The two rooms we really wanted to fix were the kitchen and the ensuite off the master bedroom. We wanted to keep as much of the character and original features as possible. The house had beautiful beam work that had been painted and we wanted to restore these original features as best we could.

Other issues that needed to be addressed which were far less glamorous included one of our basement walls which needed reinforcement and a necessary sump pump. The roof also needed to be rebuilt and insulation had to be added to the entire house.”

With all this awareness Matt and Kim purchased the house and Aquarian got busy making their vision come true. Kim recalls, “The design process was great.

The biggest challenge was to imagine how the space would look with walls moved around. The 3D renderings really helped and there were very few challenges with

BEFORE

the design. Areas that were surprises included costs hiding in the non-insulated and crumbling walls… And not to mention that crumbling roof.”

Some of the best decisions Kim and Matt recall were best captured in the description of their product selection day which was described as a “crazy day due to our busy schedules… We are busy people so we did it in a day!” Kim describes that,” the flooring was the best decision we made with product selection. We had walnut hardwood floors and they couldn't stand up to what we seemed to do with floors. Marsha suggested laminate and did a great job of explaining just how much it has changed through the years and although I was sceptical, I was wrong… This flooring is great and we haven't scratched or dinted it yet! She also suggested building a tiled dog shower for our furry family members in our large laundry room. Our laundry room has direct access to the back yard so it made sense to have it there. We also wanted upper cabinets installed along the entire width of the laundry room for extra storage. There was a Dutch double door installed as well so there could be air flow if we wanted the dogs to be contained.”

Kim also loves the tile selection for the bathroom and the hardware selected too. “The original ensuite had a single sink so we decided to add a much needed double sink. The bathroom came together perfectly, each of the pieces, the lights, tile, hardware, and cabinets complement the other elements of the room and we just love it!”

When asked to describe what are the special features in their newly renovated home Kim was quick to explain the solutions to her storage space concerns in the kitchen. “Our old house had a huge walk in pantry and I was very concerned that the renovation would lose that storage space. Aquarian designers helped plan the kitchen with two pull out pantries and utilized a corner space for an appliance garage. I am amazed at how efficient and practical this design solution was. We store tons of things there”. Kim continues, “There are so many things that we love and which work perfectly for our family. The barn door is a perfect example. The original railings were also saved, and sandblasted and then painted a pewter colour to match the rest of the changes. The floor to ceiling windows bring the river valley into create the perfect backdrop for our living room and the whole renovation helped to keep the character of our home. We love it! Many of the features are subtle and they bring a smile to my face every time I enter the room”

BEFORE Marie Soprovich Owner of Aquarian Renovations; Writer, Visionary, Leader.

Visit www.aquarianrenovations.com or call 780.481.7671

MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

Tips And Tricks

RENOVATING WITH THE ENVIRONMENT IN MIND! Hire a RenoMark contractor Photo courtesy of Aquarian Renovations PRESERVING STRUCTURES AND PREVENTING unnecessary waste from going in the landfill is what renovations are all about. Improving your home design, energy efficiency, building envelope, aesthetics and function of your home are all good reasons why you, the homeowner, choses to renovate. Renovations driven by the need to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact are as important as the renovations designed for improved space usages in kitchens and bathrooms. There are many products available today which support the individual goals of the homeowner and the collective direction the construction industry is moving in regarding a lower environmental impact as an overarching goal.

A renovation can restore a home to its former glory by taking it back to its original condition if it has experienced a fire or flood or a renovation can transform a home into a new living space that meets the current needs of the homeowner. Ask your professional renovation contractor to help you select the products that best meet your construction and environmental goals.

Finding your RenoMark contractor through the Canadian Home Builder Association Edmonton Region is a good choice as they have a proven track record and are committed to a renovation-specific code of ethics. These renovators also stay current with the range of environmental products and practices that best support Green renovations. RenoMark renovators will also provide essentials such as written contracts, warranties and all the insurance necessary. They also understand the value of customer service and continually educate themselves regarding current trends, including green building and what that means for the customer in the selection of appropriate materials and specific regulations.

Ask your RenoMark renovator about build green options and support the growing trend of a greener and more environmentally friendly renovation.

Remember that RenoMark® is an organization within the Canadian Home Builders that you can trust when finding the right renovator for your project. These renovators are all members of The Canadian Home Builder’s Association. RenoMark renovators understand homeownership and just how hard people have worked for their homes.

Credentials that capture a professional renovator include: » A proven track record in the industry with past project lists, references, testimonials from previous clients and contacts. » Well established business practices, project management and client communication. » Clearly defines the responsibilities of the renovator and the homeowner regarding insurance, finance and scope of work.

14 YPNEXTHOME.CA

» Professional memberships and affiliations such as Canadian Home Builders – Edmonton Region, RenoMark, Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau » Experience, training, education, craftsmanship and skills, upgrading and special expertise. » Minimum 2 year warranty Find your professional renovator at http://www.renomark.ca/ edmontonregion/home A renovation can make your home more environmentally friendly for you, your family. Check out your RenoMark contractor today!

For a list of BUILT GREEN® builders and renovator members please visit www.builtgreencanada.ca/find-a-member

*Resources included: Canadian Homebuilders Association “The Get it in Writing Handbook” and RenoMark Website

RENOMARK EDMONTON – WWW.RENOMARK.CA The program identifies those renovation contractors who have agreed to CHBA – Edmonton Region’s code of ethics, as well as a renovationspecific code of conduct, they provide warranties, understand the value of customer service, and continually educate themselves regarding current trends, materials and regulations.

Business Profile

AT YOUR SERVICE Benjamin Matthew Contracting focuses on service and design to make homeowners’ visions come to life BENJAMIN MATTHEW CONTRACTING LTD. has been in the business of creating custom-made spaces in the Edmonton and surrounding area since 2011. Since then, president and owner Benjamin Guittard has been very busy building solid relationships with both homeowners and some of Alberta’s top designers, all to achieve beautiful, high-end renovations for his clients.

“I’m a smaller company, so I can focus on relationships and offer more personalized service and advice,” explains Guittard. “Honestly, my success is all about building relationships with the right people, both homeowners and artisans. I get done what I say I’ll get done, and that honesty and trust goes a long way.” While Ben manages the projects himself and works with his sub-contractor teams onsite, he swears by finding MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 15

the right designers and tradespeople he can trust. “They need to be talented, dependable and respectful to the project and the homeowners.

“Today, people know more of what they want. They already have an idea of their style, and have a vision. It’s my job to help translate that vision into something tangible.” How he does that is all about his process: That process varies, depending on if the homeowners has a designer or not. If they don’t, he encourages them to get one and connects them to one who he thinks can best translate their vision into a reality. Guittard has worked extensively with established local design firm Hastings Ilagan Design (hastingsilagan.ca) for the last few years, and has worked closely with Melanie Marshall at MSquared Design Group (msquareddesigngroup.com) and—more recently—Karolin Metivier KM Designs (karolinmetivier.com).

“Normally, I meet with potential clients and get to know them and understand their goals. I get a brief description of what they’re looking for, maybe check out their Pinterest boards or other clippings they have, and in week or two I come back with a ballpark budget to make sure we’re speaking the same language in terms of expectations.

“If they want to proceed, we start to look at the scope and bring in trades for a walkthrough. We then source materials and create a tighter budget. At this time, we also start to work on permits for large-scale projects with major changes to the home. It’s only then that the work begins.

“Communication is key,” says Guittard.

The more homeowners know about what’s happening, the better they feel about the renovation. “When people know what’s happening—when they have all the information and updates—they feel better about the whole process.”

Guittard learned that trick of the trade (so to speak) thanks to his family: he comes from a long line of builders and developers. In fact, he grew up doing renovations at his parents’ house, learning along the way. And his first job was working at a golf course doing landscaping and carpentry. So you can 16 YPNEXTHOME.CA

probably say this is what he was born to do. Not that he knew that at first.

“I actually went to university to be a doctor,” Guittard exclaims with a chuckle. But after taking some time off to refocus after his first year, he completed university with a business degree. While in school, he spent six years honing his building and project management skills at Beautiful Basements and Timberstone Builders, and then started working for Brookfield Residential, learning about engineering and architecture. Once he had enough experience under his belt, he launched Benjamin Matthew Contracting fulltime.

Since then, he’s been doing mainly high-end custom renovations in some of the city’s more established neighbourhoods.

To learn more about Benjamin Matthew Contracting or see some of Guittard’s work, visit his website at benjaminmatthew.ca, email info@benjaminmatthew.ca or call him at 780-686-4273.

MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 17

Tips and Tricks

Decoding

THE CODE

By Michael Nyikes

Q A

I recently had a loyal reader ask me if it matters what direction the strips of hardwood flooring are in-stalled in relation to the direction of the floor joists underneath.

The answer depends on whether the floor joists are covered with a sheathing material or not.

Many older homes from the ‘60’s and prior did not use sheathing (such as plywood) over the joists and so the strips of hardwood would be laid directly across (at right angles) to the floor joists. The same holds true today although it is exceedingly rare to find this practice still in place.

If it does occur, then the Alberta Building Code stipulates the strips of hardwood flooring are to be cut so that each end of strip can be fastened to the supporting floor joists underneath…..this is called end-matching. Also, no more than two adjoining strips can endmatch on the same joist, meaning the next pair of adjoining strips must be end-matched on a different floor joist. This distributes the load more evenly over the joists, prevents squeaking, as well as separation of the hardwood flooring from the sup-porting floor joists below.

Over the past 30 or so years, the vast majority

18 YPNEXTHOME.CA

of hardwood flooring has been installed with a sheathing material over the floor joists. Once there is sheathing in place, the strips of hardwood flooring can be installed in any direction, as well as in a variety of patterns, and mixed with other flooring types such as carpet and tile.

Future Decoding the Code columns will continue to answer readers’ questions about how the provin-cial safety codes affect their projects. Email your questions to me at decodingthecode@gmail.com. Be sure to include which city you live in, as well as your phone number in case I need to follow up with you.

Michael Nyikes is a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and leading industry expert on building codes, residential construction, building envelope science, and environmental design. He can be reached at decodingthecode@gmail.com

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Feature

VIEWS IN YOUR HOME THAT PAY YOU BACK The benefits of high performance windows & doors Co-written by Al Dueck, President and Aynsley Dueck, Marketing Manager, DUXTON Windows & Doors Photos by The House Company

THERE ARE SOME CONFUSING signals in the news over the past number of months. Suddenly, oil based energy costs have dropped dramatically despite experts predicting resource shortages in the years to come. At the same time, building experts have concluded that the highest source of heating/ cooling costs are related to the building envelope and specifically windows and doors.

Considering a probable rebound in oil/ energy costs, investments in new builds and renovations should reflect future operating costs. A modest investment in better quality fenestration not only reduces overall heat loss, but also can 20 YPNEXTHOME.CA

create an excellent source of heat in our cold climate market. » Investment Point #1: Rather than save a few short-term dollars on ‘cheaper windows,’ closely evaluate overall R-value, thus reduced heat loss for the long run.

“The best building envelopes have a combination of thicker walls with less thermal bridging, in addition to high insulating windows and doors – an insulated frame, argon gas fill, and

Building experts have concluded that the highest source of heating/cooling costs are related to the building envelope and specifically windows and doors.

Window 15% of Wall Area

Wall R-Value with Windows w/Varied Wall Insulation Levels

U-Value

R-0

R-18

R-39

R-60

0.30

R-5

R-11

R-15

R-17

0.20

R-5

R-13

R-19

R-23

0.15

R-5

R-14.5

R-23

R-28

0.10

R-5.5

R-16

R-27

R-34

Sources: “Holes in the Wall: To Improve the Energy Performance of Walls, Look at the Total R-Value,” Journal of Light Consyruction, February 2014

one or two low emissivity coatings on the glass,” comments Dave Smeding of Shield Windows & Doors. “Even if the wallsare well insulated, leaky windows will contribute to significant heating/ cooling loads all year round.”

Careful consideration of the orientation of the house, by elevation, creates another really important consideration. “Solar heat gain is central to the design of our houses whenever a site offers good sun exposure,” comments Jamie Thompson of The House Company. “Very large south windows combined with concrete floors can provide a large portion of winter heating needs. Incorporating a thermal chimney – high windows with remote openers – controls overheating without fans in all seasons. The use of shade awnings reduces summer heating while allowing full sun in the winter. The added perk to this strategy is the flood of daylight and how the outdoors becomes part of your living space.”

Creating the right solution for your home involves some careful consideration to balance passive solar gain with sufficient shading in the hot season, to avoid overheating. Some contributing factors include: orientation by elevation, location of deciduous trees, roof overhangs, shade from nearby buildings and the appropriate selection of glass. The graph below provides insights on different types of glass coatings and their effect on solar transmission. » Investment Point #2: Do your homework and consult with a knowledgeable building expert and window consultant to select fenestration and glazing that suits your specific project.

In addition, consider important elements such as clear views of the outdoors, cross ventilation in those amazing spring and fall days, accessibility through swinging/sliding doors which do not block key pathways and the net effect of the air tightness that is achieved.

“Sliding windows are not nearly as air tight as compression sealed windows,” comments Dave. “Also consider European-style tilt n’ turn windows, with a great compression seal, and lots of glass area. When it comes to swinging

doors, consider multi-point locking hardware – it improves air tightness, increases security, and adds to the durability of the door slab.” » Investment Point #3: Select enough air tight venting windows which give you fresh air, while limiting your heating costs. Finally, thoughtful investments on windows and doors should give consideration to the longer term durability and environmental impact of their production and performance.

Triple pane glass will best maintain its seal when placed in a stable and durable frame. Research shows that fiberglass is one of the most stable materials on the market today. While wood is an excellent building material, it tends to absorb moisture and expand/contract with the changing seasons.

Lastly, consider the warranty and the source of your window and door product. Finding a locally manufactured product may be not only a solid environmental consideration but also a key factor in long term support. » Final Investment Point: Consider selecting a local manufacturer and a trust-worthy installer that will back your warranty in the long run.

MAY - JUN, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 21

PRODUCT & SERVICES DIRECTORY AW N I N G S Canfab Products Ltd 12819-144 ST 780.451.4341 www.canfabproducts.ca CA B I N E T S NexLevel Cabinets 5311 - 97 Street 587.596.6666 587.596.7777 CONCERTE City MiniMix Concrete Inc 780.974.7969 info@cityminimix.com www.cityminimix.com

Homestyle Construction Ltd. 780-479-6032 www.homestyleconstruction.ca

TILE

Innovation Plus Developments Ltd 780 434-0923 www.innovationplus.ca

#7 445 Parsons Road

Rencon Industries Inc. 780.986.2160 www.renconindustries.ca

www.tilestrend.com

Renovations of Excellence 780.441.1243 www.wedorenos.com renos@telusplanet.net

D E C O R AT I V E PA I N T I N G

Revolving Rooms Interior Design Inc. 780.465.8071 www.revolvingrooms.ca

Unfauxgettable Interiors 780.999.5609 ifaux@shaw.ca www.unfauxgettable.ca

Serenity Contracting & Design Inc. 780.435.6304 www.serenitycontracting.ca

FLOORING

KITCHENS

Payless Wholesale Flooring & Lighting 18415-104 Ave 780.487.2700 www.paylessfloors.ca

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry 2866 Calgary Trail, NW 780.465.6531 www.kitchencraft.com

H O M E R E N OVAT I O N S A Cut Above Living 780.244.0504 acutaboveliving.com Ackard Contractors Ltd. 780.414.0686 www.ackard.com Aquarian Renovations 780.481.7671 www.aquarianrenovations.com Appollo Sunrooms 780.466.1952 www.apollosunrooms.com Coogee Construction Ltd. 780.454.1513 www.coogeeconstruction.ca Diamond Contracting 780.433.3166 www.diamondcontractingab.ca Fortress Homes & Renovations 780.660.1026 www.fortresshomes.ca Full House Renovations 780.483.2666 www.fullhouserenovations.com

Tile’s Trend Ph: 780.485.2277 tilestrend@gmail.com

WINDOWS Durabuilt Windows & Doors West 10920-178 St. 780.455.0440 South 8605 Argyll Rd 780.463.4466 Duxton Windows & Doors 6764 99 Street (by appt only) 780.887.5163 www.duxtonwindows.com

TILE’S TREND FOR ALL YOUR TILE & STONE NEEDS

Towne and Countree Kitchens 17212 107 Ave. 780.489.3331 www.towneandcountree.com LIGHTING

NEW IN ALBERTA...DIGIT`ART GALLERY

Design 21 FX Lighting Ltd. 780.421.1940 www.design21.ca INTERIOR DESIGN Flawless Interiors 780.903.0634 www.flawlessinteriors.ca

FLOOR TILES, GLASS TILES MOSAICS, WALL TILES

Kohon Designs #143 - 10309 107th St. Phone 780.428.6230 www.kohon.ca

• NEW ARRIVALS ON BIG SIZE TILES, BACKSPLASHES AND SHOWER BASES • LARGEST CHOICE ON MOSAICS • DIGITAL ART GALLERY NOW OPEN!

Mojo Design Inc. #1, 10340-134 St. 780.455.5229 Mojodesigninc.com

#7 445 Parsons Road Edmonton, AB.T6X 06W Phone: 780-485-2277 Email:tilestrend@gmail.com www.tilestrend.com

S T O N E PA N E L S

MON- FRI: 9:30AM - 6:00PM SAT: 10:00AM - 5:00PM After hours call 780-237-2757

Prima Stone 4328-97 St. 780.932.7289 www.primastone.ca

SUPPLYING LEADING-EDGE, MODERN, CONTEMPORARY PRODUCTS

RENOVATING? DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START?

ARE YOU THINKING OF BUILDING A NEW HOME IN AN ESTABLISHED NEIGHBOURHOOD? WE CAN BUILD THE CUSTOM INFILL HOME FOR YOU!

CALL THE RENOVATION PROFESSIONALS PROUDLY SERVING EDMONTON AND AREA SINCE 1977 …AND THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE!

after

before

Basement Transformations Including Potential Rental Suites • BONDED • Guidance and Professional Supervision • LICENSED • Quality Workmanship • FULLY INSURED • Ground Level & Second Storey Additions • Sunrooms LOU SOUCY • Kitchens 780.441.1243 • Basement Transformation Visit www.WeDoRenos.com • Exterior Remodelling for details and full virtual tours.

There is no substitute for experience!

Great design lives here.

Choose fiberglass for the ultimate in design flexibility, and the best in performance.

We’ve moved! 9515 49 Ave. Edmonton, AB (By appointment only) 780.887.5163 | duxtonwindows.com