Q:  What is involved in converting an attic area into additional living space?

 A:   An attic redo can provide one of the most cost-effective and inviting ways to significantly increase indoor living space. But we suggest you do quick evaluation of your attic before you proceed with any remodelling plans for feasibility issues such as:

Codes: Check the Building code as there are several restrictions regarding height and square foot allowances.

Beams: If your roof is supported by series of W-shaped trusses, your attic isn't a likely remodelling candidate. If the horizontal collar beams stretch across open space below, then you're in luck. ( You can often raise low collar beams with an advise of an professional.

Rafters: Most attics will require work on the rafters to accommodate insulation value.

Stairway: Check the code on size and type of stairway access needed, including location.

Floor: Most attic joists only hold up the ceiling below and do not have the strength to carry live additional loads. Existing rafter joists are usually only 2x4 or 2x6 in size.

Exits: An emergency exit also needs to be installed in the attic. Refer to Ontario Building Code latest version.

Light: There is also a minimum of natural light needed to satisfy the code.

 Q:  Are steel insulated entrance doors superior to wood?

 A:   This answer depends on your needs and taste so I will list a few considerations for each.

Wood: We recommend cedar because it weathers well. Wood doors can literally be customized to any size or shape with plenty of glazing options. Repairs can be done to most wood doors. Wood doors can be stained to practically any finish color needed. Wood doors come pre-hung for new installations.

Steel: Steel doors are usually cheaper than wood. Steel door come pre-hung for either new installation or retro-fit instsallation. Steel doors usually come in standard sizes and styles. Steel doors are susceptible to chips and dents, which are usually not able to be repaired.

 Q:  What is the difference between stain and clear coat finishes in hardwood floors?

 A:   Answer goes here

 Q:  How can I achieve a quick and inexpensive face-lift/exterior renovation to improve the appearance of my home?

 A:   A major rescue isn't always necessary for a fresh look. Suprisingly enough, an exterior facelift can transform and give your home a whole new look. You don't have to invest a lot of money either to get dramatic results. Consider projects such as painting, adding decorative door trim, shutters, landscaping, porch refacing and decorative columns.

 Q:  What is involved in transforming a damp, wet basement into a dry, comfortable living space?

 A:   Be sure your basement is dry and will stay that way before you finish it. If the basement has not been waterproofed, you should waterproof before finishing and ensure weeping tiles are installed to take excess water from footings. Also, Extend down spouts away from foundation wall or have a rain barrel installed (you can pick them up at the city). Ensure grade level is sloped away from foundation wall.

Before finishing the interior you can coat inside foundation wall with waterproof paint. When finishing the interior walls, provide insulation and vapour barrier. Add a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.

 Q:  What can I do to protect my stone and concrete during the winter months?

 A:   Do not use salt directly on your concrete and stone. Salt will damage and cause spawlling to the finishes. If there is an ice problem, we recommend you use fertilizer base ice pellets instead.

 Q:  What type of Paint should I use for my home?

 A:   Answer goes here

 Q:  What can I use to clean and maintain my hardwood floors?

 A:   We recommend a special cleaner that doesn't harm the floor because it evaporates soon after contact but provides excellent cleansing results. Before this product is applied, the floor should be vacuumed. for more information on this product, contact us.

 Q:  What type of floor covering is best for my kitchen renovation?

 A:   The materials you select for your floor coverings in your kitchen, complement your overall decorative theme, be it warm and homey or cool and sophisticated. Today's materials are all durable enough stand up to everyday wear and tear, but as always, higher priced top of the line surfacing performs better and maintains its like new appearance for longer than less expensive products. The best surfacing material is one that most closely suits your budget, taste and lifestyle. Following are some recommended surfacing choices in ascending order according to budget.
Vinyl sheet flooring:
Dry back 12x12 vinyl tile
Ceramic tile
Slate tile

 Q:  Are skylights expensive?

 A:   The actual skylight may not be - you could purchase one for as little as $195.00.

But to have it installed properly and to ensure no leakage problems is more involved and requires the skills of several trades, including framing, drywall, priming, painting, roofing, flashing.
Speak to an expert before you start.

 Q:  Do you recommend using natural cedar or pressure treated wood for my deck project?

 A:   Pressure treated wood is a preserved chemically treated spruce wood material which involves minimal maintenace. Cedar wood comes naturally unfinished and needs to be stained. Therefore expect to restain the wood every 3 years or so. Cedar is also considerably more expensive. Each wood has its own characteristics and depending on your budget and other considerations, the choice is really up to you.

 Q:  What is the difference between damp proofing and water proofing a basement foundation wall?

 A:   Damp proofing means coating the exterior foundation wall with a special tar-like sealant to protect the wall from moisture penetration.

Waterproofing is when there is an actual membrane, usually rubber, that is applied to the surface of the foundation wall as a complete water barrier.

We recommend weeping tile also be installed at exterior of the footing to take away excess water from the house. Please note rain water leader should not be intalled directly to the weepers as this can cause flooding problems.

 Q:  How can I make a small space feel larger?

 A:   The most effective way to do this is to install natural lighting such as windows, skylight or glass blocks. Choosing the right colour of paint is very important too. Usually lighter cooler colours work best.

 Q:  How does Halogen differ from conventional incandescent lighting?

 A:   Incandescent lighting is a conventional type of lighting with a tungsten filament vacuum bulb. Halogen lighting uses a gas-filled bulb. Be aware if any hand contact is made with a halogen bulb glass or socket, you could leave natural oils deposits and shorten the life of the bulb. Halogen lighting delivers the same brightness as incandesent lighting with only one-quarter of the energy consumption.

 Q:  What floor covering do you suggest for an entrance floor area?

 A:   Both ceramic and slate are extremely durable and have been used for centuries. With numerous styles and textures to choose from, they are ideal for entrance ways.

 Q:  What are the advantages of installing LowE & Argon gas windows?

 A:   LowE has a film protection on the glazing of the window, which reflects ultra violet rays. This keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Argon gas is an additional insulator with increased R-value protection. The heavier-than-air Argon gas is filled between the sealed glazed units.

 Q:  Do Granite counter tops stain? Would you recommend them for my kitchen and bathroom renovation?

 A:   Granite and marble are the most luxurious surfacing materials. Three-quarter inch slab material should last for the life of the structure. Expect a long life with either. Be aware though that marble can be marred by contact with acidic foods and granite can absorb kitchen grease. Granite is less porous than marble. With proper protection stains can be prevented. We recommend applying at least two coats of sealer.

 Q:  Do I need a Building Permit to remove a wall during an interior renovation?

 A:   This depends on the type of wall that you want to remove. If the wall is non-load bearing you do not need a permit. If the wall in a load bearing wall, you will need a permit and possibly engineered plans too. You should contact your local building department before removing any walls.

 Q:  Can you help me with the Design of my Project?

 A:   Absolutely, we have an expert, experienced designer who provides design ideas and concept drawings to address the unique needs of your living space. Our team of Toronto contractors will then meticulously impliment the plans.