The Advantages of Installing Smart Switches in your Home

The Advantages of Installing Smart Switches in your Home

More and more of our recent home renovation and addition projects are interested in incorporating smart switches into their designs. And it’s no wonder why—smart switches offer a number of advantages, from reducing your electricity bill to making your home more accessible.

One of the products that we’ve been using a lot lately is the Kasa Smart Single Pole Light Switch by TP-Link. In this blog post, we’ll outline some of the advantages of installing smart switches in your home.

Save Money on Your Energy Bills

One of the biggest advantages of smart switches is that they can help you save money on your energy bills. By allowing you to control your lights remotely, you can make sure that they’re only turned on when you need them—which means you won’t be wasting electricity by leaving them on when no one is home.

Increase the Convenience Factor

Smart switches also increase the convenience factor—especially if you have a large or multi-story home. Instead of having to walk from room to room to turn off all the lights before you go to bed, you can simply do it with the push of a button on your smartphone. You can also use smart switches to turn lights on before you get home so that your house is warm and welcoming when you walk in the door.

Add an Extra Layer of Security

In addition to increasing convenience, smart switches can also add an extra layer of security to your home. With most smart switch systems, you can set timers so that lights turn on and off at certain times—even when you’re not home. This can give the appearance that someone is home even when they’re not, deterring potential burglars from breaking into your home.

If you’re considering adding smart switches to your home, we hope this blog post has given you some food for thought. Smart switches offer a number of advantages, from saving you money on your energy bills to increasing the convenience factor.

They’re also a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home. We hope this post has helped you learn more about smart switches and how they could benefit your home—if you have any questions or would like more information, feel free to contact us today!

The product at a Glance:

The Kasa Smart WiFi Light Switch replaces any standard light switch and connects to your home WiFi in no time through the free Kasa app. With TP-Link Kasa, you can control your lights and other connected devices from anywhere. No more fumbling around in the dark!

  • DIMMER LIGHT SWITCH – The smart light switch works with LED bulbs and dims them to any level you want. You can also schedule on/off times for each day of the week so that your lights are on when you need them and off when you don’t.
  • WORKS WITH LED – This single pole light switch is compatible with most dimmable LEDs, incandescent bulbs,
  • Control from anywhere – Turn electronics on or off from anywhere with your smartphone using the case app (Compatible w/ Android & iOS)
  • Voice Control – Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana-supported devices for a hands-free experience
  • Gentle off – Tailor your lighting to fade on with a click of the switch or a double-click to gently fade off the lights while your child drifts off to sleep
  • Scheduling – Use Schedules to set your smart switch to automatically turn on and off while you’re home or away

You can buy this item from your local stores, or online at Amazon as well.

Residential Custom Home Builder in Toronto

Residential Custom Home Builder in Toronto

A custom-built home is a big investment, and Maserat Developments can be one of the main candidates on your luxury custom home builders list. You want to make sure you are working with a reputable and reliable contractor. Look no further than us! We are a leading residential custom home contractor in Toronto.

Our attention to detail and dedication to customer service separates us from other contractors. We will work with you every step of the way to make sure your vision for your home becomes a reality.

There is no project too big or too small for us. We have completed numerous custom homes in Toronto and are ready to take on your project! Our team will help you from the planning stage to the completion of your new home. We understand that your home is an extension of who you are. That is why we take the time to get to know you and your family so that we can build a home that perfectly suits your needs.

If you are looking for a reputable, reliable, and detail-oriented residential custom home contractor in Toronto, look no further than us! We would be honoured to work with you to build your dream home.

If you need help with your custom-build project in Toronto, contact Maserat today!

How Long Does A Bathroom Remodel Take?

How Long Does A Bathroom Remodel Take?

Perhaps you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your bathroom to match your dream bathroom. You’ve committed to the process, and now, you need to iron out the details. Although remodeling your bathroom is an excellent way to upgrade your home, it can become a drawn-out and frustrating process. 

In most cases, a bathroom remodel takes about four to five weeks. Some take shorter, some longer. It all depends on the complexity of the project and the size of your bathroom. 

So, before you dive into the project, here are a few things you should know about the timeline of a bathroom remodel!   

Why Do I Need Bathroom Renovation?

Renovating your bathroom is the perfect way to give your home a facelift without tearing it all down and starting from scratch. While redoing the bathrooms in your home is time-consuming, it’s well worth it in the end. 

Bathroom renovations can be beneficial on various fronts. The advantages of overhauling your bathroom are extensive, including a chance to repair old problems (plumbing leaks, rotted floors, etc.), increased home value, and an opportunity to incorporate storage and revamp the layout. 

Decide, Whether It Is DIY Or Professional Task?

Once you commit to renovating your bathroom, you need to decide whether you want to handle the project yourself or outsource it to a professional. Each option has its merits, but it’s ultimately up to you. 

DIYing the project can save you hundreds of dollars in labor, but it might not be the most time-effective option. For example, if you squeeze remodeling into a busy daily life, including work and family commitments, the project might take much longer than you’d like. 

On top of that, you might need permits for electrical and plumbing work. If you DIY the project, it’s up to you to handle these steps. If you outsource the work, your contractor will likely handle this part for you.

It’s worth noting that some contractors work on several projects at a time, so your bathroom remodel could take a while. However, you can find contractors who focus on each project solely, meaning there likely won’t be business days where nobody works on the bathroom.

How Long Does A Bathroom Remodel Take?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all time frame for remodeling a bathroom. Every scenario is different, as each individual has different expectations and plans for their bathroom. So, the timeline can vary drastically from one remodel to the next. 

That said, most bathroom remodels will take a minimum of 20 days to complete. Under ideal circumstances, contractors can usually finish small bathroom remodels within 23 days. If they don’t work weekends, this comes out to about 4 ½ weeks, as long as the process goes smoothly.

The project length for larger bathrooms extends based on the scope. However, numerous extenuating circumstances can affect the amount of time it takes to complete the project, from start to finish. It could take even longer if a few unforeseen hiccups arise throughout the process. 

What Are The Time Factors? What Takes Most Time?

When it comes to bathroom remodels, there’s no rushing time. Certain parts of the process require a specific amount of time for completion, so there may be a period while you wait for these parts to wrap up. 

Generally, the most time-consuming part of the process is the plumbing, flooring, and electrical steps. These steps take much longer than simply installing a new cabinet or faucet. However, other time factors that may affect your project include:

  • State of the bathroom: You need to consider the condition of your bathroom –  if you need to start from scratch and gut the bathroom, it will take considerably longer than working with existing elements. 
  • Permit and contract approval: Before starting, you’ll need to obtain the necessary contracts and permit approvals. Depending on what you need, this can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to complete. 
  • The number of contractors hired: Hiring several contractors may speed up the process, as each company can bring different expertise to the table. However, beware of hiring too many companies, as this can lead to scheduling conflicts that could slow the process. 

Main Factors That Affect Actual Bathroom Remodel Time

Multiple small factors affect the actual amount of time your bathroom remodel will take. However, three main factors will determine the significant chunks of time throughout the project. 

These factors include:

  • Project scope: You must consider how much you want to get done in the bathroom. Are you stripping the entire space down to the studs, or are you working with existing elements? How much do you want to change the layout and design? These aspects can significantly impact how long the remodel takes. 
  • DIY or professional: With DIY projects, you can go as quickly (or as slowly) as you’d like. With a professional, there may be scheduling delays or other issues that could lead to delays. DIYing the project can become taxing, as it consumes much of your free time for weeks on end. However, this might be your best bet if you’re hoping to save money. 
  • Material availability: This is a significant consideration in your project’s timeframe. If materials aren’t readily available, you might need to compromise with alternative materials or delay the project while you wait for materials. 

Phases And Time Frame To Renovate A Bathroom

A typical bathroom renovation has three primary phases: pre-construction, during construction, and post-construction. Each stage encompasses vital parts of the process that contribute to the overall goal. 

In the first phase of pre-construction, you need to post your job. This alerts local companies of your project needs, attracting qualified individuals of varying expertise to your door. While searching for the perfect fit, you should schedule site visits and bids. From there, you can choose your contractor. 

You’ll need to sign the contract and obtain the necessary permits, then ensure you purchase all necessary materials. At this point, it doesn’t hurt to warn the neighbors of the upcoming construction project. Generally, this phase takes 6-8 weeks, primarily because of the permit approval waiting period. 

Phase two is where the project truly begins. The contractors prepare your old bathroom, removing anything you no longer want. They’ll complete the necessary flooring, plumbing, and electrical work, then have the city inspect the work and sign off on the permit. Next, floor and structure work is complete, followed by installation of the bath, sink, vanity, and toilet. 

Finishing touches, such as decor and storage additions, come in on this step, then the bathroom is ready for cleaning. This phase usually takes between 19 and 41 days, although it may be shorter or longer, depending on the project. 

In the final phase, your bathroom is complete! Now, it comes down to reviewing the work with your contractor. You’ll walk through with your contractor, noting any changes necessary. The contractor can make those changes, and once those are complete, you go through the final inspection with your contractor.

After the inspection is complete and finalized, your last step is to finish payments to settle the contract! Just like that, your project is complete!

Frequently Asked Questions On Remodeling A Bathroom

Here are some frequent questions we get about remodeling bathrooms. 

How Long Does It Take To Fit In A Walk-In Shower?

Incorporating a walk-in shower into your new bathroom can take up to a week to complete. Of course, the time frame varies based on what you’re working with to start. For example, if you’re working with a similar-sized shower, the project might not take as long.

However, if you’re replacing a tub with a walk-in shower, it could take up to a whole week to complete. 

How Long Does It Take To Refurbish A Small Bathroom?

Generally, it takes around 23 days (under ideal circumstances) to refurbish a small bathroom. The time frame may vary based on your expectations and project scope. Additionally, deciding to DIY the project could take less time, especially if you devote all your free time. 

For a professional to refurbish your bathroom, you can expect it to take around 4 ½ weeks. 

How Much Does A Bathroom Remodel Cost?

Bathroom remodels can become incredibly costly, especially if you hire a professional to handle the project. On the low end, it may cost around $2,500. However, if you decide to hire a professional to handle the remodel, it could easily cost over $10,000. 

Of course, varying circumstances can raise or lower the price. For example, if you keep certain bathroom fixtures, the project will be slightly less expensive. Or, if you’re gutting the bathroom and starting fresh, it may cost even more. 

Conclusion

Although bathroom remodels are time-consuming and expensive projects, they’re well worth it in the end. Remodeling your bathroom offers one of the highest returns on investment of any work you can do on your home! On top of that, you can give your home a facelift without having to tear the whole thing down to start from scratch.

A bathroom remodel is your chance to replace old designs and elements with those more attuned to your personal aesthetic. If you need help with your bathroom remodeling in the Toronto area, contact Maserat today!

Rear Home Addition in Toronto

Rear Home Addition in Toronto

Adding an extra room to your home is a great way to increase its value. But it’s not just about the money – a new room can also give you the extra space you need to live comfortably.

If you’re thinking about adding an addition to your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First,

Adding an addition to your home is a big decision. You want to make sure you are working with a professional and experienced company to get the job done right.

Second, you need to think about the purpose of the new room. What will it be used for? How will it benefit your family?

Third, you need to consider the cost of the project. It’s important to get a few estimates before you make any decisions, you can request an estimate from our senior project managers.

And finally, you need to think about the impact the construction will have on your daily life. It’s important to be prepared for the noise, dust, and disruption that come with any major home improvement project.

If you keep all of these things in mind, you’ll be sure to end up with an addition that you and your family will love for years to come. As the best Toronto-based homes re-modelling company, we are here to help with your new addition. Looking for more information on adding addition and extensions to your home in Toronto?

Contact us today for an estimate!

Visit our website today! We offer free and paid consultations with our team of experts.

Request consultation or Call us at 416-876-1052 to book your consultation today. We look forward to helping you.

Stay tuned for more information!

Top Benefits of Renovating Your House in Toronto

Top Benefits of Renovating Your House in Toronto

Are you thinking of renovating your house in Toronto? If so, you’re making a wise decision! There are many benefits to renovating your home, including increased property values, decreased energy costs, and more. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the top benefits of renovating your house in Toronto.

If you’re like most people, the thought of renovating your home can be a bit daunting. After all, renovating can be expensive and time-consuming. However, there are many benefits to renovating your house in Toronto that make it worth the effort. Here are the top five benefits of renovating your home in Toronto:

Increased Property Value:

One of the most obvious benefits of renovating your home is that it will increase the value of your property. This is especially true if you renovate in a way that adds square footage or updates an outdated kitchen or bathroom. If you’re planning on selling your home in the near future, renovating is a great way

Lower Energy Bills:

Another great benefit of renovating your home is that it can help you save money on your energy bills. This is because newer homes are usually more energy-efficient than older ones. By renovating your home and making it more energy-efficient, you can lower your monthly energy bills significantly.

Added Storage:

A lot of people renovate their homes in order to add storage space. This is especially true for families who have a lot of belongings. If you’re running out of storage space, renovating your home is a great way to add some much-needed extra storage.

Improved Quality of Life:

Finally, renovating your home can improve your quality of life. This is because renovating your home can make it more comfortable and functional. It can also make it more aesthetically pleasing, which can improve your mood and overall well-being.

Renovating your home has many benefits, including reducing your energy bills, increasing your home’s value, and improving your quality of life. If you’re thinking of renovating your home, be sure to consult with a professional to get the most out of your renovation. Maserat Developments can assist with planning, budgeting, obtaining the building permit and finally completing construction management.

Looking for more information on renovating your home in Toronto? Visit our website today! We offer free and paid consultations with our team of experts.

Request consultation or Call us at 416-876-1052 to book your consultation today. We look forward to helping you.

Stay tuned for more information!

Exterior Renovations with Higher Returns

Exterior Renovations with Higher Returns

In our previous blog, we have provided a complete guide for the exterior renovations with a list of items that should be considered in advance. Here we have highlighted the importance of outdoor remodelling and how much value it will add to the home. Whether you want to sell or stay in the house for a long time, it’s vital to think about which upgrades will add to the total value.

Windows:

Frequently ignored, yet quite efficient in enhancing curb appeal. High-quality windows with large, gorgeous panes of glass may help an older house sell. Older homes have their beauty, but they don’t always offer the same amount of openness as newer homes. More natural light enters the home, as does better security and energy efficiency. 

New Siding:

Instead of a fresh coat of paint, it could be a smart idea to replace your home’s siding entirely. This is an excellent opportunity to combine routine maintenance with an outside remodelling project. Over time, sidings get filthy, scraped, mouldy, and lose their protective coats. Due to the threat of termites/ants, compromised house sidings are extremely necessary to repair and renovate. If water is allowed to seep beneath the surface, mould will grow. New siding must be done flawlessly, so do your homework before hiring a contractor. 

Deck & Porch:

A beautiful outdoor porch or deck adds a lot to curb appeal. It inspires individuals to hold outdoor gatherings and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to bond with your friends and family. Consider using it in your next outdoor project if your yard or deck requires a makeover or foundation repairs. Adding or extending patio/deck area is a simple process yet requires planning and assistance, depending on the size of your home.

Outdoor Kitchen & Patios:

One of the popular renovations among buyers for homeowners is outdoor kitchens and patio spaces. Make sure to choose long-lasting materials to ensure that any new installations endure the local weather condition. 

Exterior Painting:

A fresh coat of paint may make a significant difference in the appearance of your home. Just make sure the colour schemes you choose are in harmony with the style of your home and the rest of the area.

All these distinctive features can help your property stand out from the crowd. Leave this to a professional contractor unless you have prior landscaping knowledge. If you want a professional, clean, and safe completion, hiring a contractor is a fantastic choice.

We at Maserat Developments provide exterior renovation services, you can book your consultation today to get a proper and accurate estimate from our senior project manager.  

Our Design services are included in all renovation projects, so if you are not sure what material, finishes or colour to use; don’t worry we are here to help you every step of the way.