The Chilliwack Progress Wednesday, October 21, 2015
www.theprogress.com
15
After:
October 2015 PRODUCTS kk QUALIFIED TRADES kk EXPERT ADVICE kk
Modernizing the typical BC Box home By Nicolle Hodges
From complete renovations to a single room redesign, the first step to achieving the home of your dreams is by working with a trusted renovator. For Ralph Belisle, president of TQ Construction, the project entrusted to him was to transform a typical BC box home into a more modernized style better suited for the 21st century. The homeowners had realized their humble home was dated, considering it had gone untouched since it was built in the sixties. The state of the home before the renovations was like taking a trip back in time. “The floor plan was adequate for [the sixties], but it lacked clear sightlines at both the interior and the exterior, which current lifestyles demand,” explains Belisle. The home was situated to the rear of a very large lot and the homeowners loved to experiment with different foliage in the huge garden area. “We wanted to extend the house in such a way that the interior’s views of the front garden improved and the
interior space became more cohesive among its rooms.” So, the process of transformation began for TQ Construction – a company recognized for its tradition of excellence in BC’s home improvement, renovation and construction industry. Before: They widened the existing “too-tight” garage to include a garage hobby space, which enabled the creation of big living room/family room above. Belisle says the owners particularly loved the vaulted ceilings and the great garden views through the new arch-top windows. Even with a few pricier touches, the renovations stayed within budget. “I look upon the project as one of our successes, which let the inside details was so positive in fact, that be inside and the outside be inde- Belisle says they have since become pendent, even while improving the friends. access and enjoyment between the “The homeowners thought of hirtwo,” Belisle says. “The owner/con- ing us after seeing the way our neightractor team let the house and garden bourhood projects were organised,” interact beautifully, which can easily he says. “During that time we were be seen as one walks up the path to- among the first of local renovators to ward the front door.” adopt job-site recycling, which creThe homeowners’ reaction to these ates a very organised job site.” Now,
the homeowners have agreed to enlist TQ Construction for any projects going forward. With confidence comes peace of mind in the business of building. For TQ Construction, transforming a basic home into a beautiful abode was something they were sure to accomplish. TQ (Top Quality) Construction is
an award-winning home renovation company that includes a complete renovation team of interior designers, carpenters, project managers and office staff. They strive for not only superior value in their results, but incorporate innovative sustainable solutions for the home. To learn more about TQ Construction, visit tqconstruction.ca
Coast has the Brands you Want, and the Expertise you Need! Vancouver: Surrey:
www.coastappliances.com
8488 Main St
19495 56 Ave
Coquitlam:
#1-1315 United Blvd
Abbotsford:
34445 Marshall Rd
www.theprogress.com
Wednesday, October 21, 2015 The Chilliwack Progress
Weekend renovation projects There are many ways for homeowners to improve their homes without spending a lot of money. Here are a few DIY renovation projects homeowners can tackle in a typical weekend. F A M I LY O W N E D & O P E R A T E D S I N C E 1 9 6 1
WHEN QUALITY COUNTS! ›
›
›
NEW ROOF RE-ROOF REPAIRS SHINGLES TORCH ON METAL CLADDING ›
16
604-792-1479 4 4 7 4 5 YA L E R O A D
www.chilliwackroofing.ca SERVING CHILLIWACK & AREA FOR 3 GENERATIONS F U L LY I N S U R E D , W C B , C O R C E R T I F I E D
09/15W_CR23
· Closet conversion: Ample closet space is a big plus for home buyers, but upon moving into a new home, many homeowners may find they don’t need as much closet space as they initially thought. Guest room walk-in closets, in particular, may prove to be under-utilized resources. Such closets often come with built-in shelving, and therefore, they make ideal spaces to convert to mini home offices or study areas for kids. Installing an extra shelf to serve as a desk area for remote working or homework stations won’t take up much of a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, and before you know it, you will have a fully functioning workspace. · Accent wall: Accent walls can liven up a room by breaking the colour pattern of the walls in the room. Accent walls also can be used to divert attention on a particular design element in a room, such as a painting or an elaborate wall furnishing. Painting an accent
wall won’t take very long, but such a project can give a room an entirely new look and feel. · Storage and shelving: Much like some homes come with an abundance of storage areas, others fall short of homeowners’ or apartment dwellers’ needs. If your home or apartment falls into the latter category, adding some shelving or finding some new furniture that can serve double duty as storage areas is a weekend project that can help clear up some space. Purchase some wood shelving to mimic the look of traditional built-ins or replace existing single-use furniture with newer items capable of serving multiple functions, including storage. · Art: If the rooms and hallways in your home are bare or in need of new looks but your budget is tight, try your hand at spicing things up by creating some of your own paintings. Parents can encourage kids to create their own colourful masterpieces. Frame the finished works and hang them on the wall and enjoy your inexpensive and homemade “art gallery.”
Relax , Leave the Cleaning to Us! Professionally trained, bonded and insured staff. Equipment and supplies provided.
Chilliwack
Abbotsford/Mission
604-792-6243 604-850-9647 www.mollymaid.ca
cathy-deacon@mollymaid.ca 2-15W MM11
The Chilliwack Progress Wednesday, October 21, 2015
www.theprogress.com
17
How to invite more natural Book now for 5% OFF 2016 light into your home lawn care packages. A dark home can be dreary and drain residents’ energy levels rather quickly. Natural light has the power to make a person feel more energized, and it also can buoy spirits. As a result, many homeowners want to increase the amount of natural light in their homes. Increasing natural sunlight in a home reduces reliance on interior lighting. This reduces energy bills and lowers the home’s carbon footprint. Natural light also can help people in a home feel happier and more content. *Keep the drapes open. Opening blinds and curtains as far as they will go allows as much light to shine in without having to do major home renovations or spend any money at all. Homeowners concerned about privacy can install a window film that allows viewing from the inside only. *Clean the windows. Dirty windows obstruct sunlight from entering the home. They also can make a home appear unkempt. Spend a free day cleaning the windows so that they’ll let ample light in. *Install seamless or low-profile windows and doors. Seamless sliding doors enable a large amount
of light to enter the home. Such doors can replace an entire wall to brighten up a dark area of a home. The more windows and doors a home has, the brighter it will be. *Take inventory of dark spots. A room may be dark because it simply does not have a layout conducive to brightness. Is a wall blocking light from reaching a portion of the room? Think about changing the room’s layout or even making structural changes to improve light distribution. The addition of a small window on a south- or west-facing wall can greatly improve natural light. Using mirrors can also reflect light where it is needed. *Invest in skylights or solar tubes. Both skylights or solar tubes enable light to enter a home from above. Skylights are larger and require considerably more work to install, while solar tubes are more lowprofile and can be put into rooms that do not abut the roofline, such as those obstructed by attic space. The tubular cylinders are installed between the roof and the ceiling and carry light through a reflective tube to the room below. Diffusers on tubular daylighting devices scatter the rays so the light doesn’t cast harsh shadows, and UV filters can help protect furniture from discolouring. *Trim shrubs and trees. If trees and bushes are blocking light from entering your home, trim them to enable dappled light to come through. Deciduous trees that will naturally lose their leaves come autumn can be planted on sunny areas of the property. This way in the summer months they will shade the house and keep it cooler, while in winter more sun will stream in when the leaves are shed. * Create a three-season room. Make a spot in the home where sun will be at a premium. A solarium or greenhouse attached to the home can be a warm and sunny spot. Increasing natural light in a home can improve feelings of well-being and also reduce energy consumption during daylight hours.
Going above and beyond industry standards
Try the comfort of a reclining lift chair! England’s Marybeth motion chair allows you to enjoy the comfort of a recliner without sacrificing a lot of space. This petite recliner features a bustle back accented with small wings, a tight seat, and rolled step arms to create a casual, comfortable appearance that works well with any decor. Recliner mechanism choices include: rocker recliner, minimum proximity recliner, swivel glider recliner, and a power lift recliner. A power upgrade is available on the rocker recliner and minimum proximity recliner.
Ballam Furniture Gallery A Family Tradition For 60 Years
45921 Wellington Avenue • 604.793.7966 www.ballamfurniture.com www.thebedroomgallery.com
facebook.com/jballamfurniture
ALSO VISIT
The Bedroom
GALLERY 45873 Wellington 604-391-0424
facebook.com/thebedroomgallerychilliwack
To help us celebrate 45 years of loving Canadian lawns we would like to make lawn care easy for you next year. We provide professional lawn care programs and services including moss management, liming, aeration, weed control, fertilizer services and overseeding.
Weed Man Chilliwack 604-795-4600 Chilliwack@WeedManCanada.com *Offer applies to customers who pre-book and pre-pay with a minimum of 5 services before December 31, 2015.
10/15W_WM21
Get the rest you deserve,
at a price you can afford!
Whether you desire sleep that recharges, sleep that luxuriates, or you’re ready for the future of sleep, Beautyrest® mattresses are the ones to explore. Come visit our showroom and let our expert staff help you choose the correct mattress for you.
The Bedroom
GALLERY A Division of Ballam Furniture
www.thebedroomgallery.com
45873 Wellington Avenue
604.391.0424
thebedroomgallery@shaw.ca
10/15W_JB21
New windows may allow more natural light to enter a home.
facebook.com/thebedroomgallerychilliwack
18
www.theprogress.com
Wednesday, October 21, 2015 The Chilliwack Progress
Home improvement projects perfect for fall Fall is an ideal time of year to tackle home painting projects.
Fixing the floors
Home improvement projects can add value to a home and do-it-yourselfers know the sweat-equity that goes into such projects can give homeowners a greater sense of pride in their homes. But no two home improvement projects are the same, and homeowners should know that certain projects are best tackled during certain times of the year. Fall is a great season to work on your house, as the weather is often at its most agreeable once the summer heat has gone and before winter weather arrives. The following are a handful of fall-friendly home improvement projects for homeowners looking to improve their homes.
Wood flooring is a hot commodity for many homeowners. But not all flooring can be added to a home at any time of year. That’s because certain types of flooring employ adhesives that need temperatures inside the home to be within a certain range, and that range is often within 20o to 27o C, which makes fall a great time to install such floors. Colder temperatures can make it difficult for the flooring to dry and bond, which will prove problematic down the road. What’s more, many people entertain friends and family come late fall and into the holiday season, and it can be difficult to do so if you are busy installing new flooring.
Roof repair
604-798-0466 / budgetblinds.com
Whether you’re repairing or replacing the roof, fall is a great time of year to dust off the ladder and get some work done on your roof for a variety of reasons. Fixing up the roof in the fall ensures those winter storms, be it rain or snow, won’t find their way into your home via leaks. A leaky roof in winter is hard to fix, as the roof surface could be treacherous in the winter and winter winds can make it dangerous to be up on the roof at all. Addressing leaks in the fall can prevent damage to your home’s interior, which can mount up if a leaky roof is not addressed until the following spring.
Window work
Seen on Buying & Selling with the Property Brothers & Property Brothers at Home on the W Network! Blinds • Shutters • Shades • Drapes • Rugs & More Residential & Commercial 10/15W_BB21
When the weather outside gets frightful, poorly insulated windows can allow cold air into the home. That often has a trickle-down effect on finances, forcing you to turn up the thermostat in an attempt to offset the cold air pouring into the home. Whether you need your windows replaced or simply need to patch up any leaks, a proactive approach to leaky
or older windows in the fall can save you from unnecessarily high heating bills come the winter. Addressing leaky windows also makes a home more comfortable for its inhabitants.
Painting projects Painting is another home improvement project that seems tailor-made for fall. A fresh coat of paint or a new colour scheme around the house can give a home an entirely new look and feel. But paint can be pungent and the aromas may last if it’s applied at a time of year when it can’t dry while the windows are wide open. Paint fumes inside a home can make the home uninhabitable, but painting at a time of year like the fall, when you can keep the windows open during and after the project, can help air the home out. But interior painting isn’t the only painting project homeowners can tackle in the fall. Many exterior paints are temperature-sensitive and need the temperature outside to be above 5o C. Paint that freezes won’t dry properly, and homeowners might be left with a costly and unsightly mistake on their hands. Fall temperatures tend to be amenable to both interior and exterior painting projects, just be sure to check the weather forecast before making your first brush stroke.
09/15W_A23
The Chilliwack Progress Wednesday, October 21, 2015
www.theprogress.com
19
Common mistakes made on home renovation projects Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts. Homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a study found that 85 percent of homeowners say remodelling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home. But homeowners about to embark on home improvement projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls.
Failing to understand the scope of the project Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much demolition and reconstruction is involved and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects. For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, reinforcement of flooring to accommodate a new bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls. So such a renovation is far more detailed than simply replacing faucets.
Not establishing a budget Homeowners must develop a project budget to ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can eventually afford to do it right. Without a budget in place, it is easy to overspend, and that can put you in financial peril down the line. Worrying about coming up with money to pay for
materials and labour also can induce stress. Avoid the anxiety by setting a firm budget.
Making trendy or personalized improvements Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free reign when it comes to renovating their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer. However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers.
ONLY
179
$
Forgetting to properly vet all workers It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job, and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers.
95
AFTER
$
20
INSTANET REBAT
PB580H/T Backpack Blower $ 95FTER
449
Expecting everything to go as planned Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way.
Available at this authorized participating ECHO dealer:
Overestimating DIY abilities Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. In the long run, leaving the work to a professional may save you money.
TAKE BACK YOUR YARD
PB250LN Blower
A
$
30
INSTANET REBAT
45781 Alexander Ave / 604-792-4410
www.copeltd.com 10/15W_COP7
Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home.
www.echo.ca
Prices are in effect until November 30, 2015.
Helping People
Buy 1 Get the 2nd
at 1/2 price This Exceptional OFFER doesn’t come around very often… SO DON’T MISS OUT!
LOVE
Their Homes
Ends October 27, 2015 REGAL® Select is our trusted premium brand that delivers outstanding durability. And now, with the 2nd 3.79L at 1/2 price, it’s the perfect time to spruce up your decor!
#108-8645 Young Street 604-792-1544
ww w. coastpaint.com
Chilliwack Decorating Centre
Retailer Address 1 Address 2 Phone Number Website
nd
Buy one 3.79L container at regular retail price and get the 2 3.79L at half price. Offer valid on following REGAL® Select products : K547, K549, K550, K551, K552, K400, K401 & K402. Qualifying purchases must be made in one (1) single transaction. Discount applied at checkout. Offer available from 4/08 to 4/11 and cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions, or applied toward prior purchases. Expires 10/2/ 4/11/15. At participating retailers only, while supplies last. Details in store. ©2015 Benjamin Moore & Co., Limited. Benjamin Moore, REGAL and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks
Just call Janet at Chilliwack Decorating to arrange an appointment today at 604-792-1544.
10/15W_CD21
Visit us today
Need assistance with choosing g colours for your home? Matching ng g your walls, doors, trim, etc., to new ew w or existing furniture or flooring can ca an be challenging. Janet Riediger can help you avoid making a mistake with your paint colour choices. She has over 30 years decorating experience and is available for a convenient in-home consultation.
20
www.theprogress.com
Wednesday, October 21, 2015 The Chilliwack Progress
%
30
OFF
Do’s and don’ts of kitchen remodel
Bulbs, Potted Trees, Shrubs & Perennials
%
50
OFF 10/15W_SGC21
MUMS & WATERPLANTS
604-795-3770 48255 Chilliwack Central Rd
Mon to Sat 9am-5:30pm / Sun & Holidays 11am-4pm
“For All Your Concrete & Excavating Needs” • Stamped Concrete • Breaking & Removal l l a Smooth, Broom Finish “Big & Sm •• Concrete Cutting • Site Preparation ” l We Do It Al • Gravel Driveways & more INSURED
• Demolition • Bobcat & Excavating Service
604-792-7733
Cell: 604-793-7480 • Fax: 604-792-8859
W W W. S C H O L S CO N C R E T E . C A
9/15F_SC24
Office:
According to reports, a major kitchen remodeling project should enable homeowners to recoup 74.2 percent of their initial investments. Kitchen renovations have long been a safe way to improve the functionality and value of a home. But not every kitchen project is a guaranteed winner. Homeowners may inadvertently make changes that end up sticking out like a sore thumb rather than improving the space. Take a look at these kitchen remodeling do’s and don’ts to guide your next undertaking. DO consider the way your kitchen will look with the rest of the home. Keep architectural integrity in mind when designing the space. A farmhouse sink and country cabinets can look out of place in an ultra-modern home. DON’T overlook the importance of a seasoned designer or architect. These pros will know the tricks to maximizing space and achieving the ideal layout of appliances and may be able to recommend local contractors and vendors. DO look beyond surface details to the structural integrity of the design. The kitchen should be functional, longlasting and beautiful. DON’T design just for today, but look to the future as well. Unless you are willing to spend tens of thousands of dollars every five years, look for
styles and materials that will last for the long haul. Older homeowners may want to make adjustments now that address potential mobility issues down the road. DO work with what you have. A complete demolition and renovation is not always necessary to achieve the desired results. Only invest in major changes if something is not working (such as having to walk across the entire kitchen to access the stove) or is unsafe. Otherwise, minor upgrades may do the trick. DON’T over-improve the space. A fully equipped commercial kitchen may be handy for a professional chef, but the average person may not need an industrial hood and indoor pizza oven. When you make excessive improvements, you may not be able to recoup as much of the money spent because your home will not be on par with the values of homes in the neighbourhood. DO make sure you can afford the project. Plan for some unexpected purchases and plan out the renovation according to your budget. Skimping on materials or design because of lack of money may leave you feeling dissatisfied afterward.
HUGE STOCK LIQUIDATION
D BRAND NEW R A Y E BON ES! HIGH QUALITY SAL
%
75
OFF
ALL FINAL SALE! SLIDING GLASS DOORS, EXTERIOR DOORS, METAL CLAD WINDOWS, VINYL WINDOWS, LOTS & LOTS OF GLASS FOR YOUR GREEN HOUSE OR RAILINGS!
WOOD, VINYL & ALUMINUM!
RENOVA WINDO T I N WS • D G? OO FREE ES RS • GLASS TIMATES
DON’T MISS THESE INCREDIBLE DEALS!
Loca owned & operated LLocally operated. Serving Ch Chilliwack & the Fraser Valley for over 25 years.
PROUDLY CANADIAN MADE
604.792.7718 www.mjdglass.com
FREE ESTIMATES 45787 Yale Road, Chilliwack
visit Residential
Commercial
Windows
Doors
Glass
Storefront Installations
for more information! Repairs
9/15W_MJD23
The Chilliwack Progress Wednesday, October 21, 2015
www.theprogress.com
Make home projects a family affair When asked to pitch in on home projects, young kids may feel proud they can lend a hand with such a “grown-up” task. With the right instruction, children of all ages can get involved with fix-up projects and learn new skills in the process.
dren along to the home improvement store so you can purchase supplies together. Let youngsters help you as you choose materials for the project. This way they can see how the raw materials will turn into the finished renovation.
Emphasize safety. Children should understand that tools serve a distinct purpose and that they are not toys. Identify and explain the dangerous pieces of equipment and instruct children that they should not touch or turn on tools without an adult nearby. Go over the proper ways to handle the tools and explain the purposes of each device. Make sure everyone is wearing safety equipment, including eye protection, gloves and ear protection, while handing the tools.
Demonstrate and then let kids try. Children will not have the skills to perform
more intricate tasks, but older kids can hammer some nails, mix paint or even cut wood with supervision. Assign tasks based on the child’s age. For example, a preteen may be able to saw wood, while a kindergartener can hand over nails and tools. Illustrate the correct way to get things done and then have children mirror your actions.
Attempt an easy project first. Painting a room, building a planter box, or another less complicated project can help parents gauge their kids’ abilities. Involving children in home improvement projects can teach then new skills, give them a greater appreciation of the work that goes into maintaining a house, instill a sense of pride in youngsters, and provide a great chance for kids and their parents to spend quality together.
Tackling home improvement projects with kids in tow can be challenging. But if kids are old enough, moms and dads can enlist their youngsters’ help when working on projects around the house. Not only can adults keep closer tabs on kids’ activities, but involving kids in home projects also lets parents instill important and practical lessons at the same time.
Include children from the start. When beginning a project, parents can make their kids a part of the design and planning process, welcoming the input of younger members of the family, especially if renovations will impact spaces they use directly. Draft a list of supplies and ask questions of the kids regarding what supplies they think will have to go into completing the project.
Shop as a family. Although it may slow you down, take chil-
Converting garages into liveable spaces Many people decide to upgrade from their apartments or condominiums out of a need for more space. But even after moving into a new home, homeowners may soon begin to outgrow the room they have. Rather than looking for a new home, some homeowners consider expansion. Garages already are built on a foundation, have four walls and a roof overhead, so a garage-conversion project is merely a matter of turning this utilitarian area into a living space. Always apply for the proper permits and learn the zoning laws to see if a garage conversion is acceptable in your community. Go by the book so that work can be done in a proper manner and be inspected for safety. One of the biggest transformations will come by way of modifying the garage door entry. Some homeowners prefer to leave the existing door so that the home still has the appearance of a garage from the curb, while others remove the garage door and rebuild the exterior wall so that it has a window or another architectural element. An architect can help suggest design elements that will camouflage the original garage look and make the space seem like it was always part of the main living area of the home. Landscaping work also can minimize the appearance of an old garage. Rather than having the driveway end at the wall of a home, shrubbery, pavers and other techniques can blend the garage renovation into the rest of the yard design. Transforming a garage into a living space can add several hundred square feet to a home. Hire a reputable contractor and follow the municipal guidelines for modifying the space to ensure the job is done right.
Smell ‘n’ tell 1
2
3
Smell rotten eggs? It could be natural gas.
Go outside.
Call FortisBC’s 24-hour emergency line at 1-800-663-9911 or 911.
Natural gas is used safely in B.C. every day. But if you smell rotten eggs, go outside first, then call us. Learn more at fortisbc.com/smellntell. FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (15-015.45 10/2015)
21