 The warmer weather and longer days of summer make it the perfect time to tackle some outdoor renovation projects. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional area that you can enjoy all season long. In this blog post, we'll explore some outdoor renovation ideas to help you get started.
Outdoor Lighting Outdoor lighting is an easy and cost-effective way to add some ambiance to your outdoor space. Consider installing some string lights or lanterns to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You can also install some spotlights to highlight your favorite trees or plants. Outdoor Kitchen An outdoor kitchen is a great addition to any backyard. Consider installing a grill, sink, and refrigerator to create a functional outdoor kitchen that you can use for summer barbecues and parties. You can also add some counter space and storage to make food prep easier. Landscaping Landscaping is an excellent way to improve the look of your outdoor space. Consider adding some new plants or flowers to your yard or garden. You can also add some decorative features, such as a fountain or a bird feeder, to add some visual interest to your outdoor space. Pergolas or Gazebos Pergolas and gazebos are a great way to add some shade to your outdoor space. Consider installing a pergola or gazebo to create a cozy outdoor living area. You can also add some outdoor furniture, such as a sofa or chairs, to create a comfortable seating area. Fire Pit A fire pit is an excellent addition to any backyard. Consider installing a fire pit to create a cozy spot to relax and roast marshmallows with family and friends. You can also add some seating, such as benches or chairs, to create a comfortable seating area. Outdoor Play Area If you have children, consider creating an outdoor play area in your backyard. You can install a swing set, slide, or playhouse to create a fun and safe area for your children to play. You can also add some soft surfaces, such as rubber mulch or artificial turf, to create a safe play area. Outdoor renovation projects can help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy all season long. Whether you're adding outdoor lighting, installing an outdoor kitchen, or creating a fire pit, these outdoor renovation ideas can help you create the backyard of your dreams. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your outdoor space into a cozy and inviting oasis that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
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 Summer is the perfect time to give your home a fresh new look with some renovation projects. The warm weather and longer days provide the ideal conditions to tackle those home improvement projects you've been putting off. In this blog post, we'll explore some summer renovation ideas to help you create the home of your dreams.
Outdoor Living Spaces Summer is all about spending time outdoors, so why not create an outdoor living space that you can enjoy with family and friends? Consider adding a patio or deck where you can entertain guests or relax in the sun. You can also add some comfortable outdoor furniture, such as a dining table and chairs, to create the perfect spot for summer barbecues. Upgrade Your Kitchen The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, so it's no surprise that upgrading your kitchen is a popular renovation project. Consider installing new countertops, cabinets, or appliances to give your kitchen a fresh new look. You can also add a kitchen island or breakfast bar for additional seating and storage. Bathroom Remodelling A bathroom remodel is another popular summer renovation idea. Consider upgrading your bathroom with new fixtures, such as a new sink, bathtub, or shower. You can also add some new storage solutions, such as a new vanity or shelves, to keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. Landscaping Landscaping is an excellent way to improve the look of your home's exterior. Consider adding some new plants or flowers to your yard or garden. You can also add some decorative features, such as a fountain or a bird feeder, to add some visual interest to your outdoor space. Paint Your Home's Exterior Painting your home's exterior is an easy and cost-effective way to give your home a fresh new look. Consider choosing a new color for your home's exterior that complements your landscaping or adds some visual interest to your neighborhood. Add a Home Office With many people still working from home, adding a home office is a great renovation idea. You can convert a spare bedroom or an unused space into a functional home office that provides a quiet and comfortable space to work. Flooring Upgrades Upgrading your home's flooring is another popular summer renovation project. Consider installing hardwood or laminate flooring in your living room or bedrooms for a fresh new look. You can also consider adding some new area rugs to add some warmth and texture to your space. Summer is the perfect time to tackle those renovation projects you've been putting off. With these summer renovation ideas, you can create the home of your dreams while enjoying the warm weather and longer days. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen, remodelling your bathroom, or creating an outdoor living space, these renovation projects can help you create a beautiful and functional living space that you can enjoy for years to come, right here in Niagara.  Home renovation is a great way to add value to your property while making your living space more comfortable and functional. A professional home renovation can provide you with many benefits that make the investment worthwhile. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of a professional home renovation and why you should consider it.
Improved Home Value One of the most significant benefits of a professional home renovation is the improvement in your home's value. A well-executed renovation project can increase your home's market value, which can be a significant return on investment if you ever decide to sell your property. Whether it's updating your kitchen, adding a bathroom, or finishing your basement, a professional renovation can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its resale value. Enhanced Comfort Another significant benefit of a professional home renovation is the improved comfort it provides. A renovation can help you create a more comfortable living space that better meets your needs. For example, you can add more space to your home, improve the layout, or upgrade your home's heating and cooling system. A professional renovation can help you create a more comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living space that you and your family will enjoy. Energy Efficiency A professional home renovation can also help you save money on your energy bills. Renovations can include energy-efficient upgrades such as installing energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation. These upgrades can help you save money on your heating and cooling costs while also reducing your carbon footprint. Additionally, energy-efficient upgrades may make your home more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell your property. Increased Home Safety A professional home renovation can also help you increase the safety of your home. Renovations can include upgrades such as installing new electrical systems, replacing old plumbing, or adding safety features like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. These upgrades can help protect your family and give you peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and secure. Better Functionality A professional home renovation can help you create a more functional living space that meets your specific needs. Whether it's adding a home office, a workout room, or a game room, a renovation can help you create the space you need to enjoy your home to the fullest. A professional renovation can help you create a custom living space that meets your needs while also improving your home's value and aesthetic appeal. Having a professionally-done renovation is an investment that can provide you with many benefits. Whether you're looking to increase your home's value, improve your comfort, save money on your energy bills, increase your home's safety, or create a more functional living space, a professional renovation can help you achieve your goals. With the help of a professional contractor, you can transform your home into the living space of your dreams.  Home renovation is an exciting and challenging project that can transform your living space into your dream home. However, to ensure the success of your renovation project, it is essential to choose the right contractor. While there are many contractors available, working with a local contractor offers several advantages that make it a wise investment. Our team here at J&S are passionate residents of the Niagara Region and we're proud to help create the perfect home spaces that reflect this unique area.
Working with a local contractor ensures that you are working with someone who has a deep understanding of local building codes and regulations. A local contractor has a better understanding of local building codes and requirements, ensuring that your renovation project will comply with all necessary standards. This helps avoid potential fines and delays that can result from non-compliance with local regulations. A local company is also familiar with the local climate and can make recommendations to improve energy efficiency in your home. For example, our team here at J&S is familiar with the weather patterns in your area and we can advise you on the best insulation and ventilation systems for your home. In turn, this will help reduce your energy costs in the long run, while creating a beautiful living space. Third, a local contractor has a vested interest in their local community. This means that they are more likely to prioritize quality workmanship, as their reputation is at stake. Our reputation is something that we take very seriously (check out our 5-star reviews!) and we always aim to exceed expectations. A local contractor who takes pride in their work will ensure that your renovation project is completed to the highest standards, giving you peace of mind that your home renovation will last for many years to come. Working with a local contractor also offers a more personal touch - and trust us, that's something our owner Shawn does best. A local contractor is more likely to be available for in-person meetings and consultations, allowing you to discuss your renovation plans in detail and receive timely updates on the progress of the project. In addition, a local contractor is more likely to provide after-sales support, ensuring that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. You need us? We're here for you! Finally, working with a local contractor helps support your local economy. By choosing a local contractor, you are supporting local businesses and helping to create jobs in your community. This can help to strengthen your local economy and contribute to the well-being of your community. After all, the Niagara Region is known for being a large yet tight-knit group of cities. All in all, working with a local contractor is a wise investment when it comes to home renovation. A local contractor offers a deep understanding of local building codes and regulations, is familiar with local weather patterns, has a vested interest in their community, provides a more personal touch, and supports your local economy. By choosing a local contractor, you can ensure that your home renovation project is completed to the highest standards, giving you a home that you can enjoy for many years to come. When you're ready to get started, let us know! We're happy to help.  When it comes to renovations, kitchens are one of the most important rooms in the house to upgrade because they're one of the most-used areas by the whole family. Set yourself up for success with your renovation with these tips! 1. Moving or Choosing the Perfect Sink Location The sink is one of the key pieces of your kitchen, and where this integral piece of equipment is located is key for having a clean flow to your kitchen process. Choosing a sink that's in front of a window provides a sense of space and serenity that you don't get when looking directly at a wall. If your kitchen has an island, putting the sink in the island can also be a great way to maximize space and enhance flow. 2. Choose Unique Backsplash Backsplash can follow two paths: either becoming incredibly trendy or timeless. Choosing the basics like white subway tile allows you to mix and match solid colour choices of other items in your kitchen. Choosing a unique backsplash requires more planning, but can dramatically alter the feeling of your kitchen. 3. Get a Pot Filler We know, it sounds crazy but adding a pot filler to your kitchen is a game-changer. No more spilling and carrying heavy pots around. Putting a pot filler near your stove makes it easy to add a lot - or just a little - water when you need it. Cooking gets that much easier with this one small change! 4. Create More Storage Making more storage part of your kitchen is one of the most practical upgrades that you can make. Yes, visually a new island is amazing. From a functional perspective: a new island is amazing to look at, cook on, and store stuff inside of! If you're not making your kitchen island into a storage vessel: you're missing out! 5. Fresh Paint and Lighting Kitchens are an area that is commonly used and abused. Appropriate kitchen lighting is more bright and realistically, harsh than the typical living room or bedroom lighting - and that's okay! Updating your paint and lights can create a more functional and enjoyable kitchen space by working together. The combination of the two allows for an upgraded look, feeling, and function. Are you ready to take your kitchen to the next level? We sure are!  Trying to find a contractor can be hard. Google is full of what seems like options, but finding someone with availability or who will even call you back can be tricky. Take it from the pros, there are some serious musts and must nots when it comes to choosing a contractor. Here's what to look for: A Contractor that Calls Back It seems simple, but trying to find a reliable contractor that answers your call or calls you back can be hard. Make sure that you're being communicated with properly, from point A to Z. Everyone is busy, especially contractors during the building season. That's no excuse not to call you back whether the job is a fit or not! Find someone who answers, or calls back within a reasonable timeframe to chat about your job. A Local Contractor The trend of shopping local shouldn't just apply to candles and fancy scarves. You don't want to hire someone who is going to have an incredibly long morning commute just to get to you. Why? They'll have been up later, awake earlier, and probably tired! On top of that, you're creating an opportunity for people to get stuck in traffic and potentially have a travel cost associated with their services. When you hire a local contractor, you're hiring someone close in case anything goes astray, and avoiding travel costs. It'll also be easier to find reviews and even word-of-mouth feedback from others in your area, as well as Google reviews (results are based on your location!). Proven Experience Anyone can be a handyman. That doesn't mean they have what it takes to build an addition onto your home or refit your fancy NOTL bathroom. Look for someone who has the background, history, and examples of their work to back them up. Ask questions about how different aspects of your renovation will go. Get them to explain the different steps needed to get the job done. Do they know other Niagara tradespeople that they can rely on for additional expertise? The answers will always tell if they know what they're doing or not. Remember: your home is never a "just wing it" job. You deserve work with strong attention to detail and quality. Beyond these top tips, it's important to trust your instincts and work with someone you feel comfortable with. Did they not remove their footwear when entering your home? Respect is important and it's a two-way street. Always work with someone who you can trust and enjoy having in your home. We always aim to work with honesty and integrity in-mind. If you'd like to meet and obtain a quote, contact us today.  Niagara offers a perfect balance of family-friendly neighbourhoods and buzzing nightlife. With new Canadians joining the region every day, it’s important to know who to contact for renovations and what to expect from your general contractor. As a leading construction company in Niagara, J&S Construction works with clients across the region to bring home design dreams to life. One of the questions we receive often as a Niagara-on-the-Lake contractor service is, “How long will my renovations take and why?” Here, we’ll shed some light on this question, and offer a better understanding of the renovation timeline. Permits and Project Size To plan a renovation project deadline, you need to know the size of the project. Large projects take longer, but they may also take longer for not-so-obvious reasons, such as building permits and legalities. In Ontario, any project including a new building over 10-feet requires a permit. Building permits are also necessary for internal renovations, such as:
These applications can be processed in as few as 10-days but, could take quite a bit longer depending on the size of the project. Sourcing Materials Sourcing materials for your renovation is an exciting part of the process because these are the things that will add character to your home. When you renovate a home, you have the freedom to choose paint, flooring, countertops, windows and more. When you select unique, hard-to-source items, it may take longer for your contractor to gather necessary materials. You can avoid long wait times by partnering with your contractor to determine which materials are easier sourced. J&S Construction is fortunate to be well connected in the construction industry. Working with our partners we can often source design and construction materials quickly and affordably. Pauses and RoadblocksOccasionally, unforeseen circumstances beyond anyone’s control will delay the renovation process. This may include things like family emergencies or having issues with financing. Inclement weather also has the potential to slow things down, but we are usually able to overcome these obstacles by keeping lines of communication open and working quickly to make up for lost time. Final Estimate The final estimate on time will include all the factors above. Renovations on a small home can be as quick as 7 to 10 months, while a large home renovation may go up to 15 months or longer. These timeframes are only accurate if all zoning and permits are in place before construction commences, and there are no unforeseen circumstances halting your build. Working with your Niagara-on-the-lake contractor, you can create a schedule that is both efficient and realistic for you and your construction team. Contact J&S Construction for Renovations Today Interested in learning more about J&S Construction and our experienced Contracting company? We invite you to book with J&S today. Call 289-697-5757 or use our online contact form to get in touch.  One of the most common questions we're asked, yet the most difficult to answer is: how long with a project take?
The reason this question is so difficult to answer is because there are 101 different moving pieces that go into renovating or building a home. Some of these factors depend on your contractor, while others are external to yourself and your construction partner. To shed light on the topic, we're going to elaborate on some of those below. Permits Permits are granted by commercial and residential building authorities in the home's physical jurisdiction. Some permits are simple to obtain and require nothing more than submitting + paying online. Others require manual review by the governing body responsible for granting the permit. This can take a great deal of time, and was only amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the best of times, this can be a trying process. This is why it's important to begin planning for permits as early in the renovation/building process as possible. Weather The burden of many businesses is weather. For a great deal of projects, the weather can impede the best intentions of homeowners and builders. Weather doesn't only impact exterior projects like fences and windows, but can impact projects like additions, garages, basements, and other projects where important materials must travel through the elements. Nothing is like a great Southern Ontario two-week-rain, right? Products & Materials From custom windows with the correct sizing and glass dimensions to lumber and doors, wait times can vary. The more standard, or typical, a product is, the easier it is to source for a renovation or construction project. The more unique a part of your project is, it's likely that it will take longer to custom order or source from a building supply store. Depending on the unique needs of your project, vendors of these products have varied wait times. As with permits, it's important to begin ordering supplies for projects as early as possible to ensure timely execution of your project. Do you have other questions about building projects? We're happy to help! Chat with our team to book your 1-1 consultation today!  When it comes to trends, it's important to know what you're getting yourself into. This is especially true with home designs. Today, the J&S team is breaking down the trends we believe will last, or throw your home back to the past. Textured Walls Adding angled, or patterned walls to your space can make it feel incredibly modern. Some people choose to add 1-onch wooden "slats" or boards to a flat white or black wall. We believe these neutral colours will last the test of time when it comes to textured walls. Big, bold, coloured accent walls with texture; we aren't so sure. Colour choices can really date any space - especially one with a focus on design. Stay away from going to bold, and you'll generally make a lasting decision. Shiplap Everything We've seen shiplap kitchen islands, every type of shiplap wall, and even shiplap furniture over the last few years. A simple design choice for even the most novice carpenter, we believe that this trend is already seeing overuse and will fade quite quickly. Because of its simplicity to execute (even if poorly), the accessibility factor will make it overused quickly. You're likely to see this trend in cheap flips: stay away! Board and Batten We're big fans of board and batten for all types of projects. Board and batten has been used like plaid: successfully, spanning decades. Board and batten cottages were popular in the 1950s, and now we're seeing a resurgence of its use in high-end homes and accent exterior renovations. Board and batten adds a simple touch of elegance and class to any project. We believe that this gorgeous trend is a safe bet that will last the test of time, even beyond Tik Tok (pun intended). Colour Wheel Choices It's common to have users share the paint colours on their wall. Those with cult followings are more than guilty of slapping some fresh Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams on their walls and making that colour choice explode. With many simple off-whites, greys, and neutrals out there: it's hard to go wrong. Pairing your neutral walls with simple interior design choices can do wonder for your space's appearance, resale value, and overall mood.  J&S is here to help this back-to-school season with playroom Renovation ideas for kids in Niagara Spaces! Sometimes renovations can seem daunting or confusing to plan, especially with so many enviable spaces online. The J&S team is here to help with experience and ideas for renovating Niagara Falls bungalows to Niagara-on-the-Lake estates. Kids Need Storage With most of our team members being parents, we know how hard it can be to wrangle all that kid stuff! The best way to ensure your home looks like home without looking like the toy aisle is to have well-designed storage solutions. How Do You Design and Build Those Solutions? One of our favourites is in-wall storage. This can look like shelves that are built-in to the wall or custom cabinets for any space. Another way is to bring storage into your space without breaking down walls. This can be done with shelving, organized bins, or choosing a room with existing cabinetry. Kids Need Space! It might seem simple, but knocking down a wall or connecting two adjacent rooms is one of the easiest (at least to us!) ways to create more space without needing to "build" anything in particular. Our team ensures that any walls being taken down are non-load-bearing walls so that your family and kiddos are safe through every step of the renovation process. From there, we close off and drywall the space needed and can move onto the creative parts of your project! Kids in Niagara Love Creativity Here in Niagara-on-the-Lake and in other parts of the region, our kids are treated to some unique experiences that you can't find elsewhere. Creating real-life scenarios with play environments can be a great way to learn and foster creativity in our children. Building pretend schools, grocery stores, kitchens, and more can enable their imaginations to run wild, all while learning practical skills. Plus, isn't it way more fun to pretend cook than actually cook? We sure think so! Booking Your Renovation in Niagara-on-the-Lake Can Be Easy In Niagara, there are many options to choose from when it comes to your home renovation. Finding a reliable and reputable builder is another story. Enter J&S Construction! We are proud to call Niagara-on-the-Lake home. Here’s how to book your playroom renovation with us, and what that process looks like: 1. Complete our quick and easy contact form 2. We’ll reach out to you directly with any pre-visit questions 3. We will meet with you in-person or online to better understand your costruction project and any contextual information needed such as measurements and material preferences |
