Issuu

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B1

New house, new issues

A good home inspector will be able to root out any deficiencies hiding in your new home.

By Maggie Calloway Most of us know it is essential to get a home inspection prior to buying a home; this essential step is to shield us from taking on someone else’s nightmare. Among other things a home inspection should alert us to are deficiencies not just on the surface but hidden in the walls such as bad plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating and cooling systems. But we have all seen episodes on TV

“ more page.4

October 2012 PRODUCTS ❱❱ QUALIFIED TRADES ❱❱ EXPERT ADVICE ❱❱

Design from the ground up Building a custom home takes a lot more than just choosing the perfect location. By Kerry Vital

Natural gas can also heat your hot tub or pool, which is especially important when it’s cool outside. The water will be heated consistently and quickly, so your relaxation can begin almost immediately. Canada is the world’s third largest producer of natural gas, so it is an abundant source of energy, as well as being extremely popular. Natural gas meets 30 per cent of Canada’s energy needs, according to FortisBC. It is also a cleaner type of energy, emitting almost 30 per cent less carbon dioxide than oil. Another fantastic benefit to natural gas service

Building a custom home can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking into building a brand-new home that is custom designed from the ground up, the first thing you need to do is find a reputable builder who has plenty of experience. “Don’t go for the cheapest or the one who just got started,” says Ivan Krpan of Dakota Holdings Custom Home Builders. “References are essential. Many people have had bad experiences, so it’s really important to choose the right builder.” When you’re hiring a builder, it’s very important to be comfortable with him or her, because you will have a lot of contact in the next several months. Krpan says it generally takes about 10 months from start to finish, so if you’re not happy that time will be crawling by and you will be adding extra stress to your life on top of the usual emotions that come with any renovation. “The builder must be willing

“ more page.4

“ more page.15

If you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint, natural gas is a great way to do that. With increased energy efficiency and cost savings, homeowners who install a natural gas system will find many benefits. Submitted photo

The comfortable choice: natural gas Natural gas has become a popular choice in Canada, for a variety of reasons. By Kerry Vital Natural gas is rapidly becoming a popular way of powering your home, for a large variety of reasons. One of the benefits of natural gas according to FortisBC is its convenience factor. Natural gas is available at the push of a button, so you don’t need to worry about running out of fuel for your barbecue, or having to wait for your fireplace or

outdoor firepit to get hot. It is easy to find stylish and functional appliances that use natural gas, so homeowners never have to sacrifice their sense of style. Imagine coming home from a long day at work and being able to sit in front of your natural gas-fuelled fireplace with a glass of wine, or toss together a gourmet meal for a dinner party with your gas cooktop or oven. That dream is easily made possible with a natural gas system. One of the great things about a natural gas cooktop and oven is its ability to cook food evenly. You will no longer have to worry about burning one side of the pan while the other is undercooked.

Partial proceeds of all KitchenAid appliances sold at Coast in October will be donated to “Cook For The Cure”.

Details at www.coastappliances.com/cookforthecure.

B2 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B3

B4 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

A natural gas system has many benefits for homeowners, from cost to convenience “ from page.1 is the value it adds to your home. Because of its popularity and other benefits, it can contribute to a better resale value for your home. While you’re living in your home, having natural gas services make it easier to convert other appliances to natural gas when your budget permits. Homeowners with natural gas service will be interested in the rebates that are available through FortisBC in a variety of categories. The first is for space and water heating. You can receive a $1,000 rebate for swapping your oil or propane heating system to natural gas and installing a new ENERGY STAR™-rated high-efficiency heating system. Replacing your old water heater with a qualifying natural gas ENERGY STAR™ model will also make you eligible for a rebate of up to $500. “Heating water can consume 20 to 25 per cent of a home’s total energy use,” says Beth Ringdahl, program manager, energy efficiency and conservation for FortisBC. “So when it comes to looking at natural gas-powered water heaters, it makes sense to get the most efficient model you can find. Some of the new technologies make it possible to get a tank-less model, which is a bonus for smaller spaces.” In the appliances category, homeowners who buy a qualified ENERGY STAR™ washing machine will receive a $75 rebate if they purchase the new machine by Dec. 31. ENERGY STAR™ washing machines use 35 to 50 per cent less water, just as one of their benefits. Keeping warm with an EnerChoice fireplace will net you a $300 rebate if you purchase it by May 31, 2013. EnerChoice fireplaces must have a minimum of 62.4 per cent efficiency rating for a fireplace, 61 per cent for an insert and 66 per

cent for a free-standing stove. Not having to keep a supply of firewood on hand is just one more great thing about having a natural gas fireplace. Those in low-income households are able to take advantage of the Energy Conservation Assistance Program, which offers a free home energy evaluation, free installation of energy saving products and personalized advice. If you are a FortisBC natural gas customer, a BC Hydro customer and live in a low-income household, you can apply on the FortisBC website. “FortisBC offers a number of energy-efficiency incentives that help homeowners get the most out of their natural gas appliances and space heating,” says Ringdahl. “For example, FortisBC is a partner in the LiveSmart BC program for whole home retrofits. This provides homeowners energy audits that point out easy ways to make energy-efficient improvements and rebates to save on energy costs.” However, rebates are not the only way homeowners save with a natural gas system. FortisBC states that natural gas heating equipment such as furnaces are 98 per cent efficient, so heating costs are lower than with other types of systems, such as oil or propane. A natural gas water heater heats water more efficiently than other methods, and can dramatically bring down your heating costs. For more information about natural gas services, check out FortisBC’s website at www. fortisbc.com. In-depth rebate information can be found there, as well as information about the types of appliances available to homeowners, more benefits of natural gas and information on accessing your FortisBC account.

Natural gas has become a popular method of heating, cooking and barbecuing, just to name a few. FortisBC offers many rebates for homeowners with a natural gas system, so check out their website for more information. Submitted photos

Don’t settle for subpar “ from page.1 of Mike Holmes going into homes after they have been given the thumbs-up by incompetent home inspectors and that is what gives us nightmares. What you may not be aware of is that British Columbia is the only province in Canada where it is mandatory for home inspectors to be licensed. What you are looking for is an inspector who has extensive experience in the building trade, who has completed the required specific education to qualify as a home inspector and is a member in good standing of industry professional associations such as The Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association, British Columbia Institute of Property Inspectors, Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC), and for good measure, a member in good standing of the Better Business Bureau of B.C. Buying a home is the biggest financial commitment most of us will make in our lifetime so there is no such thing as overkill when it comes to checking out qualifications. What Mike Holmes is fighting for is already in place in our beloved province and has been since 2009. The ASTTBC lists several questions that you should ask when hiring an inspector, including how long he or she has been in business as an inspector, if the company has references, how long it will take to complete the inspection and what he or she charges. If there is a problem with any of the above questions or the inspector is reluctant to comply with your request, walk away. There is too much at stake to take any chances and reluctance to answer your questions is a red flag that shortcuts will be taken. Mandatory licensing in B.C. has made a dif-

PRODUCTS ❱❱ QUALIFIED TRADES ❱❱ EXPERT ADVICE ❱❱

ference in the market place, according to home inspector Glenn Duxbury. “It was like the wild west out there, just as it is in many other provinces to this day. Anybody with a ladder, a flashlight and a business card could go out there and say they are a home inspector with no training, no accountability,” he says. “When I started about 10 years ago, even before mandatory licensing, I followed the advice of a seasoned inspector and went to BCIT which at the time was the only institute offering a course in home inspection and after graduating I worked for a respected company before going out on my own.” Now things are much more tightly controlled. Along with mandatory licensing, insurance must be in good standing and should a homeowner buy a home after receiving a flawed inspection, the insurance will cover any remedial work.

Home inspector Glenn Duxbury says that the mandatory licensing for home inspectors in B.C. has gone a long way towards preventing disreputable inspections. It is important to check out foundations, attics and plumbing when purchasing a home. Martin Knowles photos

Sales Director: Lisa Farquharson • 604-575-5364 • lisa@blackpress.ca Editor: Kerry Vital 604-575-5346 • editor@newlocalhome.com Writer: Maggie Calloway maggiec@blackpress.ca Advertising • Black Press National Sales • 604-575-5826 Contributing photographers • Martin Knowles, www.mkphotomedia.com; Rob Newell, www.robnewellphotography.ca RenoNation is published by Black Press Group Ltd., (Suite 309 - 5460 152 Street, Surrey, B.C. V3S 5J9) 350,000 copies are distributed free across Metro Vancouver. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

Keeping the fires burning during the cold season By Maggie Calloway There is nothing as comforting after a day in the trenches as a fire. There is probably some primitive part of our brain that equates the warmth of a fire with safety and comfort. Whatever your personal choice or circumstances, there have never been such a variety of fireplaces available. Even if you live in a condominium, where it would be frowned upon if you started opening the walls to accommodate a chimney, there is now a great solution. Ethanol burning fireplaces, which give off no heat but have a real flame look, don’t require venting or gas lines and are a great choice for condos and give real ambiance to your living space. “Electric fireplaces have come a long way over the last few years,” says Dale Fougette of Fireplaces Unlimited. “They used to be a bit stiff and unrealistic but now they are sometimes mistaken for a gas fireplace in the showroom. You can now get an electric fireplace with a long linear look instead of the square box with the traditional log and you can just plug it in. There are also options; you can heat a condo or a basement suite when hard-wired to a higher voltage. Another advantage of an electric fireplace is they don’t have to be installed on a special surface, they are all pretty well zero clearances, they can be framed with wood and you can drywall right up to them. They are very safe.” Gas fireplaces are becoming standard in most townhouses and condos and there is something to be said for just having to flick a switch instead of lighting a fire from scratch. “There are also a lot of zero clear-

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B5

ance gas fireplaces that can sit on combustible floors, not to be confused with gas inserts that have to be totally surrounded by non-combustible material,” says Fougette. “This is an example of why it is so important to advise us about which application you are planning.” No matter what the style of your home there is a design that would work beautifully but what if you what you are looking for is not available? “We do a lot of custom fireplaces both for commercial applications and homes,” says Fougette. “There is pretty well no limit to what we can design from multi-sided fireplaces to overheight installations. All shapes and sizes, pretty well whatever you can dream, it can be made for you.”

There are a variety of fireplace styles available, says Dale Fougette of Fireplaces Unlimited, left. If you can’t find something to suit you, you can have something designed to fit the space. Martin Knowles photos

Warm Up To Winter Event TRI-CITY

SOLARA

list 1

20 TRI -C I T Y N E WS

uri

Find Your Flame

TRI-CITY

CAPELLA

a a

Continues Thursday to Monday • 9 am - 5 pm

LIST

te Fi replace S

The Largest Fireplace Showroom in the Region!

Hot Hot Deals • Scratch & Dent Bargains

• 2 FLOORS OF SAVINGS • www.fireplacestogo.ca 1150 United Blvd., Coquitlam, BC

BOLA

604•523•3404

KING EDWARD ST.

GAS • WO OD • E LE C TR IC • PEL L ET LOU G

HEED

TRANS

HWY . #7

-CANA

DA HW Y. #1

UNITED BLVD.

Fireplaces • Inserts • Stoves • Mantels • Firescreens • Tools • Cleaners • Parts & More…

B6 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

Technology making its mark on wallpaper with custom designs By Maggie Calloway If wallpaper has always been an afterthought in your design plans you may be surprised to learn there is actually a serious wallpaper design society based in England. This is not someone’s eccentric aunt with a houseful of wallpaper samples. Founded in 1986, the Wallpaper History Society was established to promote an awareness and understanding of historic and contemporary wallcoverings. Their website states “Our scope is broad and encompasses not only the history of wallpapers but also topics relating to other types of wallcoverings, the subject of interior decoration as a whole and the increasing role which digital technology plays in design.” William Morris, a wallpaper and textile designer who is still a huge influence on style in this century, said, “Whatever you have in your rooms, think first of the walls for they are that which makes your house and home, and if you do not make some sacrifices in their favour you will find your chambers have a kind of makeshift, lodging-house look about them.” Morris would heartily approve and be intrigued by a wonderful Canadian company called Rollout. Headed by Anita

Modha, with studios in Vancouver and Toronto, Rollout has married design with technology since 2005 which allows them to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of wall design. “In essence what we do is design custom wallpapers and digitally print them by the square foot,” says Modha. “We get our inspiration from community-based artists, photographers and designers, and the wall is our canvas. ... Each project is unique and is integral to the design of your home,” says Modha. Technology has thrown the world of design wide open. Imagine a wall in your media room with a custom design from a favourite movie! All bets are off today regarding what’s in or out. Your home is a reflection of you and your family and there have never been more choices to fully express who you are today.

There are many design options for wallpaper these days, from stylized skulls to a map of Paris and everything in between. Submitted photos

Maple Ridge

Your Hometown Store If it is on sale at Sears, it’s on sale in Maple Ridge. Why make the drive?

TOP

Reasons to shop at Sears Maple Ridge

Heritage West Interiors Ltd.

1. Lowest Price Guaranteed. We will not only match, but beat any competitor’s price by 10% of the difference*. 2. We service what we sell. Our service department can be reached at 1-800-469-4663 24/7. 3. Local, hometown service with friendly, knowledgeable staff. 4. Convenience. If it’s on sale at Sears, it’s on sale right here at Sears in Maple Ridge. 5. Mass inventory and selection! LARGE showroom filled with major appliances, vacuums, electronics, mattresses, lawn and garden, fitness equipment and so much more! 6. We sell Kenmore. CANADA’S #1 selling brand of home appliances. 7. We sell all leading national brand major appliances including Whirlpool, Maytag, LG, Frigidaire, GE, Amana, Bosch, KitchenAid, Inglis, Samsung and more. 8. Interest-free payment options when you use your Sears Card or Sears MasterCard! 9. DELIVERY and removal of old appliances at a nominal charge. 10. PEACE OF MIND! Protect your investment with optional protection agreements.

Designing a house into a home

You deserve it!

Free A New Kitchen for Christmas!

Bathroom Vanity To: Mrs.Claus From: Santa With New Kitchen Cabinets & into Granite Countertops Designing Value: a Any house a home Value EffectiveEvery Dec. 25, 2012 New Kitchen Cabinet LOOKING Free FOR THE Order! PERFECT Bathroom GIFT? see store Vanity for details Expires October With 31st 2012 Every New ASK ABOUT 604.477.0767 ALL OUR Kitchen CHRISTMAS info@heritagewestinteriors.com PROMOTIONS Cabinet 22335 Lougheed Hwy Maple Ridge Order! www.heritagewestinteriors.com Christmas Gift Certificate

Heritage West Interiors Ltd.

CABINETS FOR EVERY ROOM IN YOUR HOME!

*On major appliances and vacuums. Some restrictions apply. See store for complete details.

Maple Ridge

Mon.– Fri. 9:30 am – 6:00 pm Saturday 9:30 am - 5:00 pm • Sunday Noon - 4 pm Sears is a registered trademark of Sears, licensed for use in Canada. MasterCard® is a registered Trademark of MasterCard International Inc.

203 St

#10 - 20475 Lougheed Hwy., Between Triple Tree Nursery & Save-On-Foods 604.460.8077

604.477.0767 Westgate� Shopping� Centre

Regency� Centre

Triple Tree � Nursery� Land

Lougheed Hwy

see store

See In-store for Details for details

Monday-Friday 9:30 - 4:30 Saturday 11 - 4:30 Expires October 31st 2012 After hours appointments available. Promoting local jobs by carrying 3 Local Major BC Manufacturers under one roof!

info@heritagewestinteriors.com 22335 Lougheed Hwy Maple Ridge www.heritagewestinteriors.com

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B7

Keep your home secure with an alarm The peace of mind that comes with installing a good security system is well worth the cost. By Kerry Vital Keeping your family, home and belongings safe from intruders are often a top priority for homeowners. A home security system is a huge part of the battle. A good alarm system begins with a keypad, contacts for every door and window, and a motion detector, says Lee Rente of Encore Security. "A motion detector that covers any area with a large amount of glass is extremely important," he says. "If the intruder breaks glass and opens a door or window, the contact being opened will set off the alarm. But if the person breaks the door or window and steps through it without opening it, the motion detector will catch it." He also suggests that homeowners add smoke detectors, sprinkler connections and flood protection to their alarm system so they will be notified if something other than a burglary happens. "We always suggest monitoring as well," Rente says. "Many home insurance companies will give you a discount if you have a monitored alarm in your home." In order to get that discount, the monitoring company must be a ULC Certified National Station. This means that the business abides by certain standards, Rente says. "Ask your alarm company for an installation certificate as proof of monitoring," he says. Monitoring is often dependent on a landline telephone, but that doesn't have to be the case. There is now technology available for a cellular backup unit, which is a secondary device that uses a cellular phone service to dial the monitoring company if the landline is cut, or if you don't have a landline in your home. If you live in something larger than an apartment, Rente says there should be more than one keypad in the house. "One should be in the bedroom so you can immediately see where the problem is. You don't want to have to leave your room to go find out what is going on, especially if there is an intruder."

Multiple keypads also allow you to have a shorter time between entering the house and the alarm going off. This gives people who are not supposed to be there less of a chance to grab your valuables before the siren goes off. "If you only have one keypad in the middle of your house, you'll need to set that delay to a lot longer to give you time to get in there with your groceries and turn off the alarm," Rente says. "You don't want to give a burglar a lot of time to run around your house and take stuff." The final piece of the alarm puzzle that Rente recommends is sirens, both externally and internally. The external siren will alert neighbours to a problem and direct law enforcement to the correct house, while the internal siren will notify homeowners inside the house when something happens. Security cameras have recently become a popular addition to a standard home alarm system. "Visible cameras are a deterrent," Rente says. "It's not a bad

4¼˝ BASEBOARD, 3˝ CASING, OR 4½˝ CROWN MOULDING

Lin.Ft.

idea to have them, at all." He recommends the cameras be installed facing vulnerable and valuable areas. For example, some of his clients have one placed at the front door, one facing the garage or street where they park their car, around the back and on the side of the house. "The front door is to see who is ringing your bell," he says. "Some systems allow for a notification of someone at your door before you even hear the doorbell. They send a message to your smartphone with a photo of who is at your door." The number of cameras needed depend on how large your home is and what you want to cover. Most start with four cameras and continue on from there if the house is larger. When looking for an alarm company, it is best to keep a few things in mind. "Think twice before locking into a long contract when the company offers you a free system," Rente says. "Those systems are often basic and you will have to pay for anything more than that. Plus, you want to be able to choose who you want to have monitor your alarm, so it is best to purchase the system on your own." He also warns customers from purchasing an inexpensive camera system, since they are often not detailed enough to be able to give you a good photo for identifying someone if there is a problem. The cost of an alarm system varies depending on the size of your home and how the system will be installed. If wires have already been run in your home, a hard-wired system is a better choice as they are less expensive and generally work better. However, if your home isn't already wired for an alarm, a wireless system is the way to go, Rente says. "Wireless is more expensive because of the devices themselves and the batteries needed to keep them running. However, running a wire into a home that isn't already prepared is timeconsuming and pricey, so the savings of a hard-wired system will disappear."

3 Panel Pre-Hung

HEMLOCK DOOR

139

Reg. $225

For 49/16˝ Jam. Stain Grade. Installations available. Other sizes available to order.

MFPU412 REG. $1.25/LIN.FT. MRPU411 REG. $1.15/LIN.FT. MFPU47 REG. $1.05/LIN.FT.

GYPOC SHEETS

99 EACH

4´× 8´×½˝ Reg. $11.25 each

KITCHENS

% OFF

INSTALLATIONS AVAILABLE

B8 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

Rebates powering renos By Maggie Calloway If you are contemplating renovating, buying new appliances and/or saving energy dollars you must check out the BC government website, and BC Hydro PowerSmart and FortisBC websites. There are rebates just waiting for you to apply for but timing is everything and all appliances must be ENERGY STAR-rated. If you have a business, there are also rebates available from these sources plus the federal government has some interesting regional rebate deals. And, as icing on the cake, October is BC Hydro’s PowerSmart Month so they are adding to the rebates but only for this month. Most of us are aware of Hydro’s refrigerator buyback for a $30 cheque but this month they have upped it to $50 if you are a member of Team PowerSmart. You could also be eligible for new appliance rebates if your purchase qualifies: check out eligibility on the PowerSmart Website by accessing their Product Eligibility Research Tool. “We have partnered with a series of retailers to focus in on energy-efficient products for PowerSmart month,” says BC Hydro’s Robert Lee. “Some retailers are also offering a 12 per cent discount on select ENERGY STAR products, as well as double the mail-in rebates, again on select products. We have a list of participating retailers on our website.” The largest of rebates is the B.C. government’s LiveSmart program which is in effect until March 31, 2013. Homeowners must go through an energy audit, so it is advised to get going on this as soon as possible. This program has up to $7,000 in grants available if you complete your homes upgrades as recommended by the audit. To date 65,000 British Columbians have taken advantage of this program.

Save Thousands In Discounts For Natural Gas Products Up To

* 1,350

And

800**

From Fortis BC

In Cool Cash!

Robert Lee of BC Hydro says customers should check out Hydro’s website for information about saving money on power with rebates and other tips. Submitted photos

Up To

1,600*

In Provincial Rebates

Call today for you

FREE

Also for a Limited Time 10 Years Parts & Labour Warranty for selected Carrier Products

in-home estimate *with the purchase of quality Carrier System **some restrictions apply.

Gas Safety Inspection and Service of High Efficiency Gas Furnaces, Fireplace, and Hot Water Tank. Visit www.forticbc.com/offers to find out more about offers and rebates.

Sand Gravel Topsoil Fresh Pumped

Premium River Sand

Located on the Fraser River between Maple Ridge & Mission. Our access to dredging of the Fraser River allows us to offer unique products.

• Premium River Sand • River Rock • Quarry Rock • Screened Sand (used in septic fields) • Clean Fill• Golf Sand • Agriculture Sand • Modified C-33 and C-33 Sand • Turf Blend • Garden Blend Topsoils • Large landscape Rock PICK-UP & DELIVERIES AVAILABLE

778-861-7120 www.arianaheating.ca

* When an infinity Air purifier is added to a system rebate, qualifying systems range from $300-$1,1350. Offer valid from Sept. 1,2012 to Nov. 15,2012. Installation deadline;Nov. 30, 2012. Claims deadline: Dec. 15, 2012. All claims must be submitted by 6 pm CT on Dec 15, 2012. This promotion applies exclusively to residential, add-on replacement purchases during the qualifying period.

604-290-8683 or 604-462-8652 email: ATandH@riversand.ca Providing quality products and excellent service since 1987

• •R

• Gol

PICK-U

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B9

INVENTORY BLOWOUT! ONE DAY ONLY! Saturday, October 27th 10:00AM – 5:00PM

FRPEKE IN PUM

WITH ANY PURCHAT SE WHILE SUPPLIES LAS

5 × 7 AREA RUGS Sugg. Price $349

BLOWOUT

DS ROLL AEnN y colour

Any style,

s/f

LAMINATE

@ B L O WO U

PRICES

HARDWOOD

JAMAICA BIRCH 5˝

BLOWOUT

595

REG 4.9

NOON – 1PM

CARPET

2PM – 3PM

13×13 TILE

BLOWOUT

REG 1.39

O FF

MANY ITEMS

WA R E H O U S E

4PM – 5PM

PLUS! LINO BENCHMARK MANY PRO

89 99 65¢ BLOWOUT

I N S TO R E &

ONE HOUR SALES 10AM – 11AM

25% 90%

BLOWOUT

REG 2.79

DUC T S

ON SALE

I N S H OW R O

REG 1.29

MAPLE RIDGE CARPET ONE 20758 Lougheed Hwy. Maple Ridge

604.463.7755

Carpet One Floor & Home promises you’ll love the way your new floor looks, or we’ll replace it–free.

1,000 Store Buying Power Saves You More! For free measure and financing pre-approval visit CarpetOne.com.

Reasons to shop Carpet One: • • • • •

1,000 Store Buying Power Wide Product Selection SELECTAFLOOR System Best Brands Exclusive Warranties

• Flooring Experts • Superior Customer Service • Highest Quality Installation • Locally Owned & Operated

B10 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

Monitoring always a good idea “ from page.7

Enjoy the seasons in comfort. For cooling or heating, we’ve got you covered.

11868 216 Street, Maple Ridge bigvalleyheating.ca 604-467-6474 When shopping for a

INSPECTION Nilfisk

CENTRAL VACUUM do it right!

uses

Central Vacuum Complete Power Hose Kit Reg. $399.95

26995

NOW$

Limited Time Only Nov. 30, 2012

BONUS OFFER! Turbo Brush Valued @ $

49.95

10OFF

Cleaning & Service of Vacuum & Power Nozzle With Coupon Expires Nov. 30, 2012

included with your purchase

THE VACUUM SHOP #3 22332 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge

604-467-4169

have a shorter time between entering the house and the alarm going off. This gives people who are not supposed to be there less of a chance to grab your valuables before the siren goes off. “If you only have one keypad in the middle of your house, you’ll need to set that delay to a lot longer to give you time to get in there with your groceries and turn off the alarm,” Rente says. “You don’t want to give a burglar a lot of time to run around your house and take stuff.” The final piece of the alarm puzzle that Rente recommends is sirens, both externally and internally. The external siren will alert neighbours to a problem and direct law enforcement to the correct house, while the internal siren will notify people inside the house when something happens. Security cameras have recently become a While a camera system isn’t mandatory, Lee Rente of Encore popular addition to a standard home alarm Security believes it can be an important part of the home security system. package. “Visible cameras are a deterrent,” Rente Submitted photos says. want to be able to choose who you want to have He recommends the cameras be installed facing monitor your alarm, so it is best to purchase the vulnerable and valuable areas. For example, some system on your own.” of his clients have one placed at the front door, one He also warns customers from purchasing an facing the garage or street where they park their car, inexpensive camera system, since they are often not around the back and on the side of the house. detailed enough to be able to give you a good photo “The front door is to see who is ringing your bell,” for identifying someone if there is a problem. he says. “Some systems allow for a notification of The cost of an alarm system varies depending on someone at your door before you even hear the doorthe size of your home and how the system will be bell. They send a message to your smartphone with a installed. photo of who is at your door.” If wires have already been run in your home, a The number of cameras needed depend on how large your home is and what you want to cover. Most hard-wired system is a better choice as they are less start with four cameras and continue on from there if expensive and generally work better. However, if your home isn’t already wired for an alarm, a wireless the house is larger. system is the way to go, Rente says. When looking for an alarm company, it is best to “Wireless is more expensive because of the devices keep a few things in mind. themselves and the batteries needed to keep them “Think twice before locking into a long contract when the company offers you a free system,” Rente running. However, running a wire into a home that says. “Those systems are often basic and you will isn’t already prepared is time-consuming and pricey, have to pay for anything more than that. Plus, you so the savings of a hard-wired system will disappear.”

RENOVATE? NOVEMBER

SPECIAL Full Three Piece Bathroom starting at

849900

Tighe 604.312.6160 for details call

Terrafirma industries ltd 11402 River Wynd, Maple Ridge

Visit www.terrafirmaindustries.ca for a gallery of our work

need to

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B11

Building a secondary suite a good mortgage helper “There is a high demand for good-quality rental suites in Vancouver,” says Kemp. “The highest demand is for two-bedroom and two-bathroom units with eight-foot ceilings and no evidence of basement mildew. Generally these suites range in size from 700 to 1,000-plus square feet.” Having your own space is also key. It can be uncomfortable to run into your landlord on your way out the door in the morning, which is why a basement suite with its own entrance is highly sought-after. “Add quality finishes and privacy in order to attract a tenant that is looking for longerterm accommodations,” says Kemp. “Know your target market and try to understand what type of (home) they need and what they are able to afford.” When it comes to how much you will be able to get for your new secondary suite, Kemp says it depends on a few factors. “The main determinants of rental income are the quality of finish, privacy, full-height ceilings, (is it) dry and comfortable, and proximity to amenities, work and parking,” he says. It is best to check rental listings for an idea of what you could charge. As with every renovation, hiring a professional is always the best way to go. “Do your research,” Kemp says. “Print out the regulations for secondary suites and make sure you understand the content. Ensure you have adequate funds, find experienced professionals to help you, (and) allow adequate time for the project.”

By Kerry Vital The Lower Mainland is widely recognized as one of the most expensive places to live in North America. With that in mind, many homeowners are choosing to build a secondary legal suite in their house to rent out and bring in a bit of extra money. However, it can be confusing when trying to sort out what is required, what is a nice extra and the best way to go about building your new suite. Before you start such a renovation, it’s best to look into the regulations in your city. “The best resource for secondary suite regulations can be found online on your municipal website,” says Steve Kemp of Kemp Construction Management Ltd. “There are many regulations for secondary suites such as minimum egress for bedroom windows, electrical panel access, fire separation, stand-alone heating systems, (and) designated garden area, plus many more.” The thought can be overwhelming, but Kemp has some suggestions for things to think about before you start. “Can you finance the project? Are you ready to share your home?” he asks. “Is the access to your space shared or private? Is there enough parking for one or two additional vehicles?” He also says homeowners should think about whether they want to live in their home while it is under renovation, or whether they should seek alternate accommodation. Renovations aren’t quiet and they aren’t always quick. “If you are doing the full redevelopment of the basement including a new foundation, I would allow six months for the project,” says Kemp. “Minor alterations may only take a few weeks.” He notes that the more things you add to a project, the longer it will take. “For example, a new sewer, water and drainage connections add two weeks. Granite countertops versus laminate could add one to two weeks,” he says. “Sometimes owners want to upgrade the main living area at the same time, which can add additional time to the project.” As anyone who has ever rented a basement or secondary suite can attest to, there are certain things that renters will be looking for when searching for a place to live.

When you’re considering building a secondary suite in your home, the first thing you need to do is check out the regulations for your city. Submitted photos

Live in the home of your dreams... dreams...RIGHT NOW

NuConcept Countertops & Kitchen Centre

★ ★ ★ QUALITY ★ ★ ★ • local materials • experienced manufacturing team • gold standard of excellence

In-House Manufacturing Better Product

FREE

IN-HOME ESTIMATES

BETTER PRICE!

★ ★ ★SERVICE★ ★ ★ • personal 3-D design • on-site measurements • company installation team

LAMINATE COUNTERTOP CUT & FINISHED IN 48 HOURS - SUPPLY ONLY

Laminate Countertop

20.95

per starting $ linear ft from (Installation not included)

Caeser Stone Countertop

per $ as low as sq ft (Installation included)

Granite Countertop

per $ as low as sq ft (Installation included)

Kitchen Cabinets as low as

15%OFF

DOUBLE LAYER EDGE GRANITE for the price of Single!

WE NOW HAVE 3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER COQUITLAM

PITT MEADOWS

#2 - 2773 Barnet Hwy., (next to Rogers Video)

18601 Lougheed Highway (formerly Countertop Warehouse)

604.464.4488

604.465.4585 www.nuconceptkitchen.com

PORT COQUITLAM

#129 - 1585 Broadway St. (Head Office)

604.944.7677

reg price

B12 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

My House Design/Build renovates old-style bungalow By Maggie Calloway The story of a family firmly rooted in a neighbourhood with children happy in school and extended family nearby that opts to renovate a home which is tired and no longer works as the family grows and needs more space is a familar one nowadays. With home prices still rising, homeowners are weighing the cost of buying a new home and relocating against the cost of a renovation and ending up with exactly what you want. More frequently, renovating is winning the coin toss. This was the case with this renovation. The father of the family grew up in the area, has many family members living close by, and wanted his own family to experience the love and security of grandparents, aunts and uncles and cousins being a part of everyday life. Linda Jones, an interior designer working with the My House Design/Build Team, is very pleased with how this amazing transformation works for the family. “The whole main floor which was originally the kitchen, dining room and living room are now one great room,” says Jones. “Our clients are all about family and the configuration of the original house didn’t allow them to live as they really wanted to. Major Sunday dinners with extended family are now possible with everyone together comfortably in this new space.” The clients trusted the renovation team which allowed them to hand over creative control of the project. This is a dream situation for any team and they made sure the family received what they needed in spades. “It was a real pleasure working with the family,” says Jones. “Opening up the whole main floor required major engineering to replace the removed walls but the end result was

The people at My House Design/Build Team updated this 1,300-square-foot bungalow into a family’s dream home, with a redesigned kitchen and open plan layout. Submitted photos

worth it. The main floor now consists of three small bedrooms, a family bathroom and an ensuite bathroom as well as the great room.” The house is a 1,300-square-foot bungalow with no second story but with a full walk-out basement. “This whole space was very carefully planned. When you design a great room, which by design has to fulfill many roles, every detail is important,” says Jones. “For instance, the kitchen is totally exposed to the living room but by placing the island carefully with a raised breakfast bar it shields the working area from the living space. We also

stained the island with an espresso stain which again creates a piece of furniture from the living room side.” Not a huge amount of work was done on the exterior of the home. The windows were trimmed out to create symmetry, a new door was installed, steps, railings and plantings were changed and the whole exterior of the home was repainted. The difference these relatively small changes made to the curb appeal is enormous. The rear of the home was refreshed with new railings on the deck. All in all the rear of the home is now an inviting place to be on a summer day.

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B13

A few little changes can make a difference By Kerry Vital Winter seems to be rapidly approaching, and with it comes darkness, bad weather and a feeling of cabin fever. Perhaps putting some new decor into that cabin will drive away some of those feelings. A new colour palette might be a good place to start. “It’s nice to have something vivid and fun,” says Sarah Gallop, principal designer at Sarah Gallop Design Inc. “It really sets the tone for the space.” Colours such as bright orange, magenta and lime green are especially popular as accents, Gallop says. She often has people request a feature wall in a saturated colour, some bright pillows or other textiles, or even a new piece of furniture in a tropical hue. These accents go well with the new neutrals

that are a recent trend. While many shake their heads at “apartment beige”, that colour is a classic for a reason and still features heavily in many homes. However, warm and cool greys are still requested, though Gallop sees them as being on their way out. “People like a timeless, classic look,” she says. “You spend a lot of money to decorate your house, and it doesn’t always make sense to go for a new look every time.” Wallpaper has also become more popular recently and Gallop expects this to continue next year as well. “People have a bad association with it,” she says. “But it gives such a glamour that paint doesn’t have.” Because it doesn’t have to be permanent, Gallop says wallpaper is an easy way to keep up with interior decor trends. “Some of the new wallpapers are gorgeous,” she says, adding that you are no longer relegated to musty flowers and faux finishes that were popular in the 1980s and 1990s. Even the popular style of furniture has been changing recently, Gallop says. “More tailored looks are back,” she says. “The overstuffed furniture is out; it’s quite bulky and heavy-looking.” A move towards indoor-outdoor living has been coming on strong this year, and Gallop expects that to continue into the new year. Sarah Gallop says adding a vivid colour to a room freshens it up and sets the tone for the space, no matter which room it is. Submitted photos

“It’s really about extending the living space out,” she says, adding that the ability to do so depends on the layout of the home and yard, but “it’s usually achievable.” Building an outdoor kitchen or patio for entertaining is one of many things homeowners can do to maximize their indoor-outdoor space. When you’re thinking of doing some updates, it’s always best to take a look at the things you already love about a space. Working out a budget for what you can afford and want to change is the best place to start. Overextending yourself is never a good plan. “You don’t want to be a slave to your house,” Gallop says.

A busy corner, left, has been transformed into a cozy breakfast nook, above. The bright colour and plenty of storage space gives a new feel to an older space. Meanwhile, wallpaper is back and nothing like the dated patterns many grew up with, below. Submitted photos

1-877-707-7427 www.naturallightpatiocovers.com

Mortgages Made Easy Looking for a new mortgage or refinancing? Look no further — we’ll come to you! Applying is easy and we’ll get back to you quickly. Save time and money today with Bobby Dhaliwal, Manager, Mobile Service Delivery. Bobby Dhaliwal Mobile Relationship Manager 604-512-8167 bdhaliwal@gffg.com

Check for online to o our Ph y Galler

Patio Covers and Enclosures

Enjoy maintenance-free outdoor living, all year long Turn your sun-baked and rain-soaked patio into a cool, dry sun-lit outdoor living space. We also offer enclosure and sunroom options, plus infrared patio heaters, so you can use your outdoor area year-round! ACRYLITE® acrylic sheets and roofing systems give you the ultimate protection from the weather, blocking 100% of UV and letting you enjoy the outdoors in unequaled comfort. Ask about our 30 year warranty!

Call us in the Lower Mainland at 604-857-1702

B14 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com

th Sandy’s 37 Anniversary Sale ON NOW

Visit Vancouver’s only Flexsteel Gallery at Sandy’s Furniture www.sandysfurniture.ca/contests/fall2012 Mon. – Wed. 9:30am-6pm Thurs. & Fri. 9:30am-9pm Sat. 9:30am-6pm Sun. 11am-5pm

604.520.0800 1335 United Boulevard | Coquitlam

www.sandysfur niture.ca

www.mapleridgenews.com - THE NEWS -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- B15

Finding a level of trust is extremely important when choosing a home builder “ from page.1

to spend time with them,” says Krpan. “They must be willing to assist (the homeowners) with colours, design and other plans.” Once you’ve chosen a builder, you need to find the land you want to build on and know the regulations that are in place for the type of home you can construct. “How a property is situated will (determine) what you can put on it,” says Krpan. Once you’ve chosen where you want to build and purchased the parcel of land, it’s time to start looking at what you want to include in your new home, whether it’s a large kitchen perfect for entertaining or several bedrooms to fit your growing family. “A good builder will help you look at what you should and shouldn’t do (in a home) as well as discuss your likes and dislikes,” says Krpan. This is the perfect time to talk about your dream master suite or what you love about a friend or family member’s house. Those granite countertops and heated tile floors are important parts of the design puzzle, and your builder needs to know that you want them included. “In most cases you will be working with a designer who works with the builder,” say Krpan. They will collaborate with you to lay out everything you want for your perfect home. Once you have finalized your design and everyone is on the same page, it’s time to discuss how much it will cost and draw up a contract. “It’s best to enlighten people about what the process is,” says Krpan. “Everything has a price tag attached.” The contract you sign should include the square footage of the home, a total breakdown of the costs you will incur including the price per square foot and the quality of finishings that will be in the home. “It should also include a payment schedule,” Krpan says. “For example, I ask for 25 per cent to start. Then, another 25 per cent once the roof, doors and windows go on. The next 40 per cent would be required when the heating, air conditioning and electrical go in and drywall goes up. The final 10 per cent would be due once everything is finished and a final inspection is done.” However, Krpan warns that even though you may have signed a contract stating how much you will be paying for your new home, if you come up with some new ideas mid-way through, there might be some extra costs. “An example would be a high-end chandelier,” he says, adding that the homeowner would have to pay for that on top of the agreed-upon cost. “You don’t want any misunderstandings between the builder and the customer,” Krpan says. “That’s why there needs to be a good contract in place. Having a contract keeps everyone honest and everyone understands the cost.” You should also be given a construction specifications sheet when completing a contract. That sheet (Krpan’s are usually four or five pages long) will list the construction materials the builder will use. “I list the important things,” says Krpan. “I’m not going to list the brand of concrete used or anything, but I will list things like the cultured stone for the front or the type of windows, for example. It’s important to protect both the builder and the customer.” Being realistic about what you can afford is very important. You may have fallen in love with that huge granite soaker tub or opulent formal dining room you saw in a home decor magazine, but if it’s not feasible on your budget it may need to be put aside for the time being. Your home is more than a place to rest your head. You should feel happy and comfortable in your new place, and knowing that this house was built exactly how you wanted it to be will go a long way towards making that possible.

Building a custom home can be a large undertaking, so it is important to find a builder you trust and are able to work with. Whether you want a large kitchen, glittery chandeliers or an opulent master bedroom, your options for the design of your new home can be limited only by your imagination and your budget. Submitted photos

B16 -- Wednesday, October 24, 2012 -- THE NEWS - www.mapleridgenews.com