Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest renovation questions from New Brunswick homeowners.
Is marble or quartz a better backsplash material for an NB kitchen?
Quartz is the better backsplash choice for New Brunswick kitchens due to superior stain resistance, lower maintenance, a...
How do I fix a renovation that was done without a permit in NB?
If you discover renovation work was done without required permits in your NB home, you'll need to apply for retroactive...
What special insulation is needed for homes near the Northumberland Strait?
Homes along the Northumberland Strait need enhanced moisture management and wind-driven rain protection beyond standard...
Is PEX or copper piping better for a plumbing renovation in New Brunswick?
PEX piping is generally the better choice for New Brunswick plumbing renovations due to its superior freeze resistance,...
What is a renovation mortgage and can I get one in New Brunswick?
A renovation mortgage combines the cost of purchasing a home and renovation expenses into a single mortgage loan, allowi...
What are the building code requirements for an attic conversion in NB?
Attic conversions in New Brunswick must meet specific building code requirements for ceiling height, egress, structural...
What are the most sustainable renovation materials available in New Brunswick?
Sustainable renovation materials in New Brunswick focus on locally-sourced options, high-performance products that reduc...
Are there more renovation contractors available in Moncton or Saint John NB?
Moncton has a larger pool of renovation contractors than Saint John, primarily due to its larger population base and pos...
What are the best aging-in-place renovations for seniors in New Brunswick?
The most effective aging-in-place renovations for NB seniors focus on bathroom safety modifications, main-floor accessib...
What are the challenges of insulating an older stone foundation home in NB?
Insulating an older stone foundation home in New Brunswick presents unique challenges due to the porous nature of fields...
How does a renovation affect my property taxes in New Brunswick?
Renovations in New Brunswick will generally increase your property assessment and taxes, but the timing and impact vary...
What renovations can I do year-round in New Brunswick?
Most interior renovations can proceed year-round in New Brunswick, while exterior work is best limited to May through Oc...
What flooring should I choose for a main floor open-concept renovation in NB?
For a main floor open-concept renovation in New Brunswick, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered hardwood are your best...
How much does it cost to replace an oil furnace with a heat pump in Moncton NB?
Replacing an oil furnace with a heat pump in Moncton typically costs $12,000-$20,000 for a complete system, including re...
What is the best flooring for a mudroom renovation in NB's Maritime climate?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or porcelain tile are the best flooring choices for NB mudrooms, offering superior moisture res...
How much does it cost to renovate a home office in Moncton NB?
A home office renovation in Moncton typically costs $8,000-$25,000 depending on scope, with basic conversions running $8...
How much does it cost to move plumbing for a bathroom renovation in Saint John NB?
Moving plumbing for a bathroom renovation in Saint John typically costs $2,500-$6,000 depending on how far fixtures are...
How much does asbestos removal cost during a renovation in New Brunswick?
Asbestos removal in New Brunswick typically costs $15-$25 per square foot for materials like floor tiles and mastic, $25...
What exterior renovations add the most curb appeal in New Brunswick?
New siding, updated windows, and a quality front door replacement deliver the biggest curb appeal impact in New Brunswic...
What foundation issues are common in New Brunswick homes built before 1970?
New Brunswick homes built before 1970 commonly suffer from shallow foundations, stone or block foundation deterioration,...
How much does it cost to add recessed lighting during a renovation in New Brunswick?
Adding recessed lighting during a renovation in New Brunswick typically costs $150-$300 per light installed, including t...
What do I do if my renovation goes over budget in New Brunswick?
Budget overruns happen on 70-80% of NB renovation projects, especially gut renovations of older homes where hidden issue...
What renovations can I safely do myself in New Brunswick?
Many interior renovations are perfect for DIY in New Brunswick, including painting, basic demolition, flooring installat...
Is fall a good time to start an interior renovation in NB?
Fall is an excellent time to start interior renovations in New Brunswick. The cooler weather makes working indoors more...
How much does a basement home theatre cost to build in New Brunswick?
A basement home theatre in New Brunswick typically costs $15,000-$40,000 for a mid-range setup, with luxury installation...
What size heat pump do I need for a 1,500 sq ft home in New Brunswick?
For a typical 1,500 sq ft home in New Brunswick, you'll need a heat pump with 36,000-48,000 BTU/hour capacity (3-4 tons)...
How much does it cost to enclose a carport into a garage in New Brunswick?
Converting a carport to an enclosed garage in New Brunswick typically costs $8,000-$20,000, depending on the size, found...
What are the best siding options for a coastal home near the Bay of Fundy?
For coastal Bay of Fundy homes, fibre cement siding (HardiePlank) at $10-16/sq ft installed offers the best combination...
What renovation tasks always require a licensed contractor in NB?
In New Brunswick, any electrical work beyond simple fixture swaps, all plumbing rough-in or modifications, gas appliance...
How much does an EnerGuide home evaluation cost in New Brunswick?
EnerGuide home evaluations in New Brunswick typically cost $300-$600 for the initial assessment, with follow-up evaluati...
Should I hire a renovation contractor who asks for more than 10% deposit in NB?
No, you should not hire a renovation contractor who asks for more than 10-15% deposit in New Brunswick. Legitimate, esta...
How do I manage living arrangements during a whole-home renovation in NB?
Living in your home during a whole-home renovation in New Brunswick is possible for some phases but requires careful pla...
What special considerations are there for renovating a century home in NB?
Century homes in New Brunswick require specialized renovation approaches due to their unique construction methods, poten...
How much does it cost to repair ice dam damage on a NB roof?
Ice dam damage repair in New Brunswick typically costs $2,000-$8,000 depending on the extent of damage, with emergency r...
Can I use my RRSP for a home renovation in New Brunswick?
No, you cannot withdraw from your RRSP for home renovations. The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) only allows RRSP withdrawals fo...
How much does it cost to install a stairlift in a New Brunswick home?
Stairlift installation in New Brunswick typically costs $3,000-$6,000 for a straight staircase and $8,000-$15,000 for cu...
How do I update the plumbing in a 100-year-old New Brunswick home?
Updating plumbing in a century-old NB home requires full replacement of the original galvanized steel or cast iron syste...
How much does undercabinet lighting cost in a kitchen renovation in NB?
Undercabinet lighting in New Brunswick kitchen renovations typically costs $300-$1,500 installed, depending on the type...
What is the going rate for a carpenter in New Brunswick in 2026?
Experienced carpenters in New Brunswick charge $35-$55 per hour in 2026, with most residential renovation work falling i...
What are the most important upgrades for an older home in New Brunswick?
The most critical upgrades for older NB homes are air sealing and insulation improvements, electrical panel upgrades, fo...
What exterior materials hold up best in New Brunswick's coastal wind and rain?
For NB's coastal conditions, fiber cement siding, metal roofing, and vinyl siding with proper fastening offer the best c...
Should I upgrade my furnace during a basement renovation in NB?
Absolutely consider upgrading your furnace during a basement renovation in NB — it's one of the most cost-effective time...
How much does it cost to add a kitchenette to a finished basement in NB?
Adding a kitchenette to a finished basement in New Brunswick typically costs $8,000-$18,000, depending on the complexity...
How much does it cost to install a covered porch on a New Brunswick home in 2026?
A covered porch installation in New Brunswick typically costs $150-$400 per square foot, meaning a standard 8x12 foot co...
How much does it cost to add solar panels during a renovation in NB?
Solar panel installation during a renovation in New Brunswick typically costs $15,000-$30,000 for a residential system,...
How much does it cost to install a basement bar in NB?
Installing a basement bar in New Brunswick typically costs $8,000-$25,000 depending on size, materials, and complexity....
What is a net-zero renovation and is it possible in New Brunswick?
A net-zero renovation transforms an existing home to produce as much renewable energy as it consumes annually, and yes,...
What happens if a renovation uncovers water damage in a New Brunswick home?
Water damage discovery during renovation is extremely common in NB homes due to our harsh Maritime climate, and addressi...
What are the most popular renovation projects in Saint John NB in 2026?
Kitchen renovations, bathroom updates, and basement finishing are the three most popular renovation projects in Saint Jo...
Is it worth renovating a heritage home in New Brunswick or should I start fresh?
Renovating a heritage home in New Brunswick is often worth the investment, but success depends on the home's structural...
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