Product Selection and Installation for Professional Results

The products used in your home renovation can have a big impact on the overall quality of the job and on how satisfied you will be with the end result. There are two key considerations - the quality of the products, and how they are installed.

Selection

The structural components of your renovation (lumber, subflooring, insulation, foundation, plumbing, and so on) are most often suggested by your renovator, who will discuss with you why particular choices are the most suitable for your job.

However, it is up to you, the homeowner, to choose the siding, flooring, fixtures and a myriad of other finishing products that go into a home. This only makes sense - after all, you know what you like and how much you are willing to spend.

Proper product selection is vital, and professional renovators will help you make the right choices for your project and budget. They know what's available, and which materials and products offer the best quality and value. They will make recommendations and introduce you to their suppliers.

It is important to make sure that products and materials meet Canadian standards by such agencies as Canadian Standards Association and Underwriters Laboratories. These standards set criteria for safety, health and performance and are an important indication of quality.

Many renovators are using and promoting products made by well-known manufacturers, from building materials to windows and faucets. Using brand-name products means that you can be confident that you know what you are getting, including the manufacturer's warranty.

Installation

However, even the best product cannot perform well, or may fail, if it is not installed properly. An air barrier installed on the wrong side of the wall assembly can lead to moisture problems. Poorly done sub-flooring may "telegraph" through vinyl or linoleum floor covering. And so on…

Invariably, the result of improper installation is disappointment. The renovation doesn't look as good as it should, or things don't work right and the work may have to be redone, which is both inconvenient and costly. Just as importantly, incorrect installation might invalidate a manufacturer's warranty.

When you hire a renovator, make sure you choose a professional. Then you can have confidence in the work and in the products that go into your renovation, and you will be protected by the manufacturers' warranty. With a professional renovator, you can look forward to the final result, knowing that everything will work smoothly for years to come.