General Construction
General questions about construction, home improvement, and renovations
Can you recommend an exterior painter?
I can't recommend specific painters by name, but I can guide you to find qualified exterior painting contractors in Metro Vancouver through our verifi...
What temporary utilities do I need during a gut renovation?
During a gut renovation, you'll need temporary electrical service, water access, and waste disposal solutions to keep your project running safely and...
Should I use PEX or copper pipe for my plumbing renovation?
For most Vancouver plumbing renovations, PEX is the better choice due to its flexibility, freeze resistance, and significantly lower installation cost...
What CleanBC rebates can I get for a heat pump in BC?
The CleanBC Better Homes Income Qualified Program provides the most generous incentives. If your household income is under $80,000, you can receive up...
How much should I expect to spend on a heritage home renovation on the West Side?
Heritage home renovations on Vancouver's West Side typically range from $200-$600 per square foot, with total project costs often reaching $300,000-$1...
What should I know about asbestos before renovating an older Vancouver home?
Asbestos is a serious health hazard commonly found in Vancouver homes built before 1990, and proper identification and abatement are legally required...
Do I need strata approval before renovating my condo in Burnaby?
Yes, you absolutely need strata approval before renovating your condo in Burnaby. This is a legal requirement under BC's Strata Property Act, and fail...
What kind of windows are best for energy efficiency in Vancouver?
For Vancouver's climate, triple-pane windows with low-E coatings and argon gas fill offer the best energy efficiency, providing superior insulation ag...
What kind of concrete sealer works best for Vancouver driveways?
For Vancouver driveways, penetrating silane/siloxane sealers work best due to our wet climate and freeze-thaw cycles. These sealers penetrate deep int...
Why is my heat pump not heating properly in cold weather?
Heat pumps lose efficiency in cold weather because they extract heat from outdoor air, and there's less available heat energy when temperatures drop b...
What is the Builders Lien Act and how does it protect me as a homeowner?
The Builders Lien Act is BC's legislation that allows contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers to place a legal claim (lien) against your p...
What delays should I expect during a renovation in Vancouver?
Renovation delays in Vancouver are unfortunately common, with most projects taking 20-50% longer than initially planned due to permit backlogs, weathe...
What are the steps to renovate a heritage home in Vancouver?
Renovating a heritage home in Vancouver requires navigating both standard building permits and heritage conservation requirements, which can add 2-6 m...
What is the best way to plan a renovation during Vancouver's rainy season?
The key to successful winter renovations in Vancouver is prioritizing interior work while protecting your home from our 1200mm+ annual rainfall. Smart...
What's the best time of year to start a renovation in the Lower Mainland?
The best time to start a renovation in the Lower Mainland is late spring through early summer (May through July), allowing you to complete exterior wo...
What are the biggest renovation mistakes homeowners make in Vancouver?
The biggest renovation mistakes Vancouver homeowners make are failing to get proper permits, underestimating moisture management needs, and not accoun...
What is the process for getting a renovation loan in British Columbia?
Getting a renovation loan in BC involves choosing between several financing options, with the application process varying significantly based on wheth...
My deck boards are rotting after only a few years — what happened?
Premature deck rot in Vancouver's wet climate is typically caused by poor drainage, inadequate ventilation, or using the wrong materials for our 1200m...
What type of insulation should I use in a Vancouver rain screen wall?
For Vancouver rain screen walls, you'll want to use rigid foam insulation (polyisocyanurate or XPS) or mineral wool as your primary insulation, with b...
What is the best exterior paint for the rainy Lower Mainland climate?
For Vancouver's wet climate, 100% acrylic latex paint is your best choice for exterior surfaces. These paints offer superior moisture resistance, flex...
What does a good renovation contract look like in British Columbia?
A good renovation contract in BC should be a detailed, written agreement that protects both you and your contractor while clearly outlining scope, cos...