Why ICF Homes are the Perfect Match for Geothermal Heating

Ontario Geothermal ICF Homes • High-performance match Why ICF Homes are the Perfect Match for Geothermal Heating Geothermal is one of the most efficient heating options you can install in Ontario—yet plenty of homeowners still end up disappointed. Not because…

Low Maintenance Homes Ontario

Low maintenance home in Simcoe County

Ontario Homes Low Upkeep Durable • Efficient • Practical Low Maintenance Homes in Ontario: The Smart Builder’s Guide to Less Work (and Fewer Weekend Regrets) If you’re shopping, designing, or building in Ontario and you want a home that doesn’t…

Cottage Building Ontario Guide

🏡 Cottage Country 🌊 Waterfront Reality 🛠️ Rural Construction ✅ Permit-Friendly Planning Cottage Building Ontario: Complete Guide from Land Purchase to Move-In If building a house in town is a chess game, building a cottage in Ontario is chess… on…

Geothermal System Cost in 2026: Ontario

Ontario • Heating & Cooling • Budgeting for 2026 Geothermal System Cost in 2026: Real Ontario Prices, Loop Options, and the Hidden Costs That Surprise Good People If you’ve been shopping geothermal, you’ve probably seen two kinds of numbers: the…

Best Home Designs for 2026

🏠 Best Home Designs for 2026 🇨🇦 Canada + North America 📅 2026 Best Home Designs for 2026: What’s Trending (and What’s Quietly Going Extinct) You’re not imagining it: we’re moving away from the sterile, ultra-minimalist “Instagram look” of the…

Ontario Lot Grading and Drainage Requirements

📍 Ontario 📅 2026 💧 Lot Grading + Drainage Ontario Lot Grading and Drainage Requirements: A Clear Blueprint for New Homes (2026) If you’ve ever wondered why municipalities obsess over “swales” and “finished grade,” here’s the reason: water is extremely…

Zoning Rules for New Homes Ontario

🏡 Ontario 📅 2026 🗺️ Zoning explained (human version) Zoning Rules for New Homes Ontario: Ontario Zoning Rules Explained for New Homeowners (2026) Zoning is the “rules of the neighbourhood” you don’t see until it taps you on the shoulder…

How to Get a Building Permit in Tiny Township

🏗️ Tiny Township 📅 2026 Edition 🌊 Shoreline rules + rural realities The Master Guide to Building Permits in Tiny Township (2026 Edition) Tiny Township is one of the best places in Ontario to build… and one of the easiest…

Cost to Build a House in Ontario in 2026

Home Price Versus Lifetime Cost

Ontario • 2026 Reality-based budget talk No “my cousin did it for $180/sq ft” stories Cost to Build a House in Ontario in 2026: What You’ll Really Pay (and What Actually Moves the Number) If you’re trying to pin down…

Home Builder Wasaga Beach

What Does A Home Builder Do

Builder checklist (Wasaga edition) Home builder Wasaga Beach: how to plan a custom build that survives permits, sand, snow, and “one more change” Wasaga Beach can be a dream place to build—great lifestyle, great access, and that Georgian Bay air…

Waterfront Home Builder Midland

t Waterfront build checklist Waterfront home builder Midland: how to get permits, budgets, and shoreline realities aligned Waterfront builds around Midland and Georgian Bay are spectacular—until the permit process and shoreline constraints show up uninvited. Most “waterfront surprises” are predictable…

ICF Foundation Contractor Simcoe County

ICF-foundation

Foundation hiring checklist ICF foundation contractor Simcoe County: what a proper quote includes (and what shortcuts look like) Hiring an ICF foundation contractor in Simcoe County is not like hiring someone to paint a bedroom. A foundation is structural, waterproofing…

Best Custom Home Builders Simcoe County Reviews

Home Builders Ontario

Decision helper Hiring a Custom Home Builder in Simcoe County? Start Here. This page is for homeowners who are ready to hire a builder (or very close) in Simcoe County and want to avoid the classic traps: vague quotes, missing…

Top Rated Home Builders Georgian Bay

Custom Home Builders in Ontario

Georgian Bay builder shortlist Top rated home builders Georgian Bay: a no-fluff checklist to pick the right team (and avoid expensive regrets) “Top rated” can mean amazing craftsmanship… or it can mean amazing marketing. Around Georgian Bay (Collingwood, The Blue…

Construction Financing for Custom Homes Ontario

Financing For Your New Home

Financing reality check (Ontario) Construction financing for custom homes Ontario: the builder’s guide to draws, documents, and dodging budget panic Financing a custom build is not hard because lenders are evil. It’s hard because a custom build has moving parts:…

Architectural Design-Build Collingwood

Collingwood design-build checklist Architectural design-build Collingwood: how the “one team” approach keeps your drawings, permits, and budget from wrestling in the driveway If you’re looking for Architectural design-build Collingwood, you’re probably after two things: a home that looks intentional (not…

Building a House on a Slope Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains slope-lot checklist Building a house on a slope Blue Mountains: what changes, what it costs, and how to build it right the first time A sloped lot in the Blue Mountains can be the best kind of “hard…

Waterfront Building Permit Specialists Tiny Township

Waterfront permit roadmap Waterfront building permit specialists Tiny Township: how to get approved without losing a full summer Building on Georgian Bay in Tiny is beautiful… and paperwork-heavy. You’re not just “getting a building permit.” You’re lining up zoning, shoreline…

Modern Farmhouse Builders Simcoe County

Modern Farmhouse Builders Simcoe County: The Clean, Warm Look—Built for Wind, Snow, and Real Life Style that holds up in Ontario Modern Farmhouse Builders Simcoe County: The Clean, Warm Look—Built for Wind, Snow, and Real Life Modern farmhouse is one…

Scandinavian Design Homes Georgian Bay

Scandinavian Design Homes Georgian Bay: Bright, Calm, and Built for Real Ontario Winters Design + performance, without the fuss Scandinavian Design Homes Georgian Bay: Bright, Calm, and Built for Real Ontario Winters Scandinavian design looks simple. Clean lines, light wood,…

Timber Frame and ICF Hybrid Builders Ontario

Post and Beam

Timber frame and ICF hybrid builders Ontario Hybrid build checklist: beauty + performance Timber frame and ICF hybrid builders Ontario A timber frame home has that “wow” factor. ICF has that “why is this house so quiet and comfortable?” factor.…

Custom Lake House Builders Tiny Ontario

Building in Ontario

Custom lake house builders Tiny Ontario Lake house checklist: Tiny Township reality Custom lake house builders Tiny Ontario Building a lake house in Tiny, Ontario is not the same thing as building a regular “in-town” home with a nice view.…

Multi-Generational Home Builders Barrie

Multi-generational home builders Barrie Builder checklist: multi-generational homes Multi-generational home builders Barrie If you’re planning a home in Barrie that lets parents, adult kids, and grandkids live together (without anyone “accidentally” moving out), you’re in the right place. Multi-generational builds…

The Simcoe County Secondary Suite Grant Program

Simcoe County Secondary Suite & Garden Suite Funding (2025–2026): How the Program Works Simcoe County 2025–2026 Secondary Suites + Garden Suites Simcoe County Secondary Suite & Garden Suite Funding (2025–2026): A Homeowner’s Guide That Won’t Get You Denied Simcoe County…

What Should I Look for When Buying Vacant Land?

What Should I Look for When Buying Vacant Land? Land Purchase Due Diligence Property Evaluation What Should I Look for When Buying Vacant Land? 14 min read Updated January 2026 Buying vacant land for building represents one of the most…

What if the Builder Goes Out of Business Mid-Project?

What if the Builder Goes Out of Business Mid-Project? Risk Management Legal Protection Contractor Issues What if the Builder Goes Out of Business Mid-Project? 12 min read Updated January 2026 Few scenarios cause more anxiety for homeowners than their builder…

What Are the Most Common Mistakes First-Time Builders Make?

What Are the Most Common Mistakes First-Time Builders Make? First-Time Builders Common Mistakes Project Planning What Are the Most Common Mistakes First-Time Builders Make? 14 min read Updated January 2026 Building your first home represents one of life’s most exciting…

Which Upgrades Actually Add Value vs. Just Cost?

Which Upgrades Actually Add Value vs. Just Cost? Home Value Upgrade Analysis Investment Guide Which Upgrades Actually Add Value vs. Just Cost? 13 min read Updated January 2026 Not all construction upgrades deliver equal returns. Some improvements add substantial resale…

Should I Hire an Architect Before Meeting with Builders?

Should I Hire an Architect Before Meeting with Builders? Project Planning Hiring Guide Architects & Builders Should I Hire an Architect Before Meeting with Builders? 11 min read Updated January 2026 One of the first decisions facing anyone planning a…

What Are Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)?

Insulated Concrete Forms

What Are Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)? ICF Basics Construction Guide Building Materials What Are Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)? 9 min read Updated January 2026 Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) represent one of the most significant innovations in modern construction, combining the…

Is ICF DIY-Friendly, or Do You Need a Specialized Contractor?

Cost To Build With ICFs

Is ICF DIY-Friendly, or Do You Need a Specialized Contractor? DIY Construction ICF Building Owner-Builder Guide Is ICF DIY-Friendly, or Do You Need a Specialized Contractor? 11 min read Updated January 2026 The prospect of building with ICF yourself is…

How Do I Find a Contractor Experienced in ICF Construction?

ICF Construction

How Do I Find a Contractor Experienced in ICF Construction? Contractor Selection ICF Construction Hiring Guide How Do I Find a Contractor Experienced in ICF Construction? 10 min read Updated January 2026 Finding a qualified ICF contractor is the single…

ICF vs CMU (Cinder Block) for a Basement—What’s Better?

ICF vs CMU (Cinder Block) for a Basement—What’s Better? Foundation Systems Cost Comparison Basement Construction ICF vs CMU (Cinder Block) for a Basement—What’s Better? 9 min read Updated January 2026 When planning a basement in Ontario, homeowners face a critical…

ICF vs SIPs—what are the differences?

ICF vs SIPs: What Are the Differences? Building Systems Comparison Guide Energy Efficiency ICF vs SIPs: What Are the Differences? 11 min read Updated January 2026 When building a high-performance home in Ontario, two construction methods consistently rise to the…

Is an ICF Home Worth it in Ontario

Is an ICF Home Worth It in Ontario? ICF Construction Cost Analysis Energy Efficiency Is an ICF Home Worth It in Ontario? 10 min read Updated January 2026 Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction is gaining traction across Ontario as homeowners…

Nudura vs Logix vs Fox Blocks Ontario

Nudura vs Logix vs Fox Blocks in Ontario: What’s Different, What’s Marketing, and What Actually Matters on Pour Day Keyword: Nudura vs Logix vs Fox Blocks Ontario BuildersOntario.com • real-world comparison Nudura vs Logix vs Fox Blocks in Ontario: What’s…

Best ICF Blocks for DIYers Ontario

ICF-vs-SIPs

Best ICF Blocks for DIYers in Ontario: The Most Forgiving Systems (and the Mistakes That Wreck Pour Day) Keyword: Best ICF blocks for DIYers Ontario BuildersOntario.com • practical homeowner guidance Best ICF Blocks for DIYers in Ontario: The Most Forgiving…

Quad-Lock vs Nudura Reviews

Quad-Lock Building System

t Quad-Lock vs Nudura Reviews in Ontario: Which ICF System Fits Your Build (and Your Crew)? Ontario-focused Review themes Choose by crew + design Quad-Lock vs Nudura Reviews in Ontario: Which ICF System Fits Your Build (and Your Crew)? If…

ICF Foundation Cost vs Poured Concrete Ontario

ICF Foundation Cost vs Poured Concrete in Ontario: A Quote-Comparison Worksheet (So You Don’t Get Played) Apples-to-apples pricing Quote worksheet Ontario realities ICF Foundation Cost vs Poured Concrete in Ontario: A Quote-Comparison Worksheet (So You Don’t Get Played) Most “ICF…

ICF Bracing Rental Rates Ontario

ICF Bracing Rental Rates in Ontario: Real Weekly Costs (and What Changes the Price) Ontario pricing examples Bracing + cost drivers No fluff, just numbers ICF Bracing Rental Rates in Ontario: Real Weekly Costs (and What Changes the Price) Bracing…

Certified Nudura Installers Near Me

Certified Nudura Installers Near Me: How to Find the Real Pros (Ontario Guide) Ontario-focused Homeowner-friendly ICF reality check Certified Nudura Installers Near Me: How to Find the Real Pros (Ontario Guide) If you typed “certified Nudura installers near me,” you’re…

Concrete Footings Cost Calculator

Hire ICF Builder

Concrete Footings Cost Calculator (Ontario) 🧱 Ontario footing budgets Includes concrete + rebar + labor + HST Concrete Footings Cost Calculator (Ontario): real numbers, fewer surprises Footings aren’t glamorous. But they’re the first place budgets go sideways—because a “simple trench”…

Most Common Regrets People Have After Building a New Home

Most Common Regrets People Have After Building a New Home (Ontario Edition): 21 “Wish We’d Done That” Lessons People rarely regret the house. They regret the little decisions that were rushed, assumed, or “we’ll figure it out later.” And in…

What Is An Allowance And Why Do Builders Use Them?

What Is a Construction “Allowance” (and Why Builders Use Them)? The Ontario Homeowner Guide to Avoiding Surprise Upgrades If you’ve ever looked at a quote and seen something like “Lighting allowance: $2,500” or “Tile allowance: $8” and thought, “So… is…

What Should a Good Construction Contract Include?

What Should a Good Construction Contract Include? The Ontario Homeowner Checklist (So Nothing “Magically Appears” Later) A solid construction contract isn’t there because you don’t trust your builder. It’s there because memory is terrible, projects evolve, and vague scope is…

Who Do I Hire First: An Architect, a Builder, or a Designer?

Who Do I Hire First: An Architect, a Builder, or a Designer? The Ontario Decision Tree That Prevents Expensive Detours This question pops up in Ontario constantly—usually right after someone buys a lot and realizes the next step isn’t “start…

How Do Sloped Lots Increase Home Building Costs

How Do Sloped Lots Increase Custom Home Building Costs? The Ontario Walkout-Lot Reality Check Sloped lots are the ones that make you pull over and say, “Now that is a view.” They’re also the ones that make builders say, “Okay……

How Do I Find a Reputable Custom Home Builder

Custom Home Builders Barrie

How Do I Find a Reputable Custom Home Builder? The Ontario Checklist That Saves You From Regret Hiring a custom home builder should feel exciting. In real life, it often feels like speed-dating… except the date costs a million dollars…

What’s Typically Included vs. Excluded in the Builder’s Estimate

Custom-Home-Builders in Toronto

What’s Included vs. Excluded in a Builder’s Estimate: The Ontario “Apples-to-Apples” Guide If you’ve ever compared two builder quotes and thought, “How can one be $120,000 cheaper?”—you’re not crazy. You’re just looking at two different definitions of the word included.…

Hidden Costs in Home Building

Building in Ontario

Hidden Costs in Home Building: The Ontario Builder’s List of “Surprises” You Can Actually Plan For Most people think the budget risk is “materials might go up.” Sure. But the biggest blowups usually come from the stuff nobody put in…

Snow Loads in Ontario

Snow Loads in Ontario: The Real Numbers, the OBC Formula, and the Roof Mistakes That Get People in Trouble Snow load design isn’t “extra cautious engineering.” In Ontario, it’s basic survival. Every winter, roofs carry a moving target: light fluffy…

Attic Insulation Cost Ontario

t Attic Insulation Cost in Ontario: Real Prices Per Sq. Ft. (and What’s Driving the Quote) If your upstairs is “sauna in July / igloo in January,” the attic is usually the first suspect. (It’s amazing how much comfort lives…

Home Renovation Savings Program Ontario 2026

Ontario • Rebates • Real-world steps Energy assessment vs no assessment Avoid the common claim-killers Home Renovation Savings Program Ontario 2026: The “No-Regrets” Guide to Getting Rebates Without Getting Burned If you’ve been renovating in Ontario for more than five…

A Comprehensive Guide to Mandatory Construction Inspections in Ontario

Ontario • Permits & compliance Part 9 homes (most custom builds) Practical, homeowner-friendly Building Your Dream: A Comprehensive Guide to Mandatory Construction Inspections in Ontario If you’re building a house, you’re going to meet a cast of characters: excavator, framer,…

2025 Ontario Building Code Changes

Ontario • Home construction Effective in 2025 (new edition + amendments) Practical changes, not just clause numbers What are the 2025 Ontario Building Code changes for home construction? If you’re building (or designing) a home in Ontario, “the 2025 code”…

How to Chose Kitchen Cabinets in Ontario

Cabinet quality 101 Budget control Layout that works Durability truth How to Chose Kitchen Cabinets: A Builder’s No-Fluff Guide to Materials, Hardware, Layout, and Not Getting Ripped Off If you’re wondering how to chose kitchen cabinets, you’re already ahead of…

Ground Source Heat Pump: The Ontario Truth About Cost

Geothermal Heating

Ontario geothermal Loop types Real cost drivers Radiant-friendly Ground Source Heat Pump: The Ontario Truth About Cost, Savings, Loop Types, and Whether It Actually Makes Sense for Your Build A ground source heat pump (geothermal) is one of the most…

ICF vs Wood Framing Ontario: Real Costs, Comfort, Moisture

Ontario climate reality Cost + comfort Moisture + durability Builder truth ICF vs Wood Framing Ontario: Real Costs, Comfort, Moisture, and the Stuff Most “Square-Foot” Quotes Ignore If you’re comparing ICF vs wood framing Ontario, you’ve probably already heard the…

How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home

Ontario timelines Permits → inspections Real delay traps Builder-level planning How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home: A Real Ontario Timeline (and the 9 Things That Blow It Up) If you came here hoping I’d say, “Six…

Concrete Curing Explained: Why Concrete Cracks, Scales, and Fails Over Time

What Every Builder (and Homeowner) Should Know About Concrete Curing A plain-English explanation of the most misunderstood material in residential construction Concrete is everywhere in residential construction. Footings, foundations, basement floors, garage slabs, porches, steps, walkways — we rely on…

Custom Home Building in Ontario

What You Need to Know Before You Start Building a custom home is exciting — and expensive. This guide explains how the process really works, what actually affects cost, and how to avoid the mistakes that homeowners regret later. Costs…

The Worst Home Upgrades

Worst Home Upgrades - Some home upgrades actually lower your resale value. Learn which renovations hurt home prices, which ones buyers hate, and the best upgrades that increase your home’s value in Ontario.

Solar Water Heating in Southern Ontario: The Real Story

Why your morning shower could be powered by yesterday’s sunshine (even in February) Let’s talk about something that might sound like wishful thinking: heating your water with solar power in a place where winter temperatures regularly make you question your…

How to Get a Building Permit in Ontario in 2026

Ontario • 2026 Permit Playbook Homeowners + Small Builders Renovations • Additions • New Homes How to Get a Building Permit in Ontario in 2026 (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Timeline) If you’ve ever said, “It’s just a little…

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets for Your Custom Home

modern-white-and-black-kitchen

Welcome to the Heart of Your Custom Home Journey! How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets For Your Custom Home So, you’re embarking on one of the most exciting adventures in creating your custom home: designing the kitchen. And let me tell…

ICFs: The Best Thing in Home Building Since Sliced Bread

Building Curved Wall with Insulated Concrete Forms

Why New Home Buyers Are Falling in Love with Insulated Concrete Forms When you’re building your first home, you want it to be perfect. You dream of a place that’s comfortable year-round, safe for your family, and won’t drain your…

Residential Solar Panels Ontario 2025

Residential Solar Panels Ontario: Is It Worth the Investment in 2025? Discover if residential solar panels are a smart investment for your Ontario home in 2025. Learn about costs, rebates, tax credits, and compare thermal vs. photovoltaic systems to make…

The Best Exterior Finishes For ICF Walls

The Best Exterior Finishes For ICF Walls

The Best Exterior Finishes For ICF Walls: Making Your Concrete Home Beautiful and Durable (Without Looking Like a Bunker) When you decide to build your dream home in Canada’s challenging climate, Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction offers exceptional energy efficiency…

Ontario’s Housing Crisis: The Great Canadian Dream Deferred

From Dream to Delusion: How Ontario’s Housing Market Became Canada’s Most Expensive Joke In a twist that would make even the most stoic Canadian drop their double-double, Ontario’s housing market has gone from “expensive” to “you must be joking” in…

The Psychology of Home Design

Home Designs

🧠 The Psychology of Home Design: Why Your House Messes With Your Head – Beyond Bricks and Mortar: The Psychology of Home Design Welcome to the world where drywall meets dopamine, where your throw pillows reveal more about your childhood…

ICF Home Building Sequence:

Quad-Lock Building System

🏠 ICF Home Building: You’ve Got Plans, Permits, and a Dream Congratulations! You’ve finally gotten your plans and specifications together. The financing is arranged, the homebuilding permits are in hand, and you’ve convinced your significant other that this will, in…

Battling the Freeze: Understanding Ice Dams on Roofs

The Frosty Foes of Ontario Roofs: A Not-So-Chill Guide to Ice Dams on Roofs Winter in Ontario is a breathtaking spectacle. The landscape transforms into a glistening wonderland, perfect for cozy evenings by the fire and the satisfying crunch of…

How to Get $7,500.00 Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit

🔑 Unlocking the Secrets of the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit If you’re planning a renovation project to create extra living space for a loved one—whether it’s for a parent, grandparent, or an adult family member with special needs—you might…

Ontario Building Code – Changes for 2025

🏡 Ontario Building Code – Changes for 2025: The Complete Guide: Building a house is like baking a cake—except instead of flour and eggs, you’re dealing with concrete, lumber, and strict building regulations. As we wave goodbye to 2024 and…

Solar Panels in Ontario – What you Need to Know:

Solar Water Heating

Shining a Light on Ontario’s Solar Energy: A Friendly Chat About PV Panels and Hot Water Systems Imagine this: you’re sitting on your back porch in Ontario on a beautiful summer afternoon, a cup of coffee in hand, and you’re…

Top Trends in Home Design for 2025

home trends

Introduction: Why Your 2023 House is Already a Relic Let’s face it: by 2025, your “modern” farmhouse with its shiplap and subway tiles will look as outdated as a flip phone. The construction industry is sprinting into the future, fueled…

How To Get A Building Permit in Ontario

Getting a building permit in Ontario feels like an epic quest—bureaucracy, paperwork, and all. This funny yet informative guide walks you through the process step by step, so you can build legally (and keep your sanity intact)!

How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home?

How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home? A Realistic Timeline (and How to Survive the Wait)” Introduction: The Million-Dollar Question If you’re planning to build a custom home, one of the first questions you’ll ask is, “How long…

Cost to Build a Custom Home in Ontario in 2025

Understanding the Cost to Build a Custom Home in Ontario in 2025: A Comprehensive Breakdown Building a custom home in Ontario is a bit like embarking on an epic quest—imagine combining the excitement of a treasure hunt with the nerve-wracking…

ICF vs Wood Frame Construction

ICF vs Wood Frame Construction: Which is truly better? We finally have scientific proof! Who wins in the ultimate battle: ICF vs Wood Frame Construction? Now you can see for yourself. Run this interactive simulation—just press Start—and watch how temperature and…

Labor Rate for Construction – How Much to Charge?

From Tool Belts to Tim Hortons: The Hilarious Math Behind Charging $100/Hour for a Guy Named Dave to Swing a Hammer in Ontario” – Extended Edition: Now with 80% More Maple Syrup and a Raccoon Named Steve 1. The Base…

We Asked AI: What is the Best ICF in Ontario?

Searching for the Best ICF in Ontario? AI’s Answers Will Surprise You (and Maybe Confuse You) “What is the best ICF in Ontario?” We typed it in, hit enter, and waited with bated breath, expecting a symphony of data-driven brilliance. Instead,…

How to Register a Construction Lien in Ontario

How to Register a Construction Lien in Ontario: A Funny, Human Guide Welcome, dear reader! If you’ve ever wondered “how to register a construction lien in Ontario” without wanting to tear your hair out, you’re in the right place. This guide is…

Construction Lien Act In Ontario – 2025

Welcome to our Ontario Construction Liens FAQ. Simply click on any question to expand the detailed answer. This guide is your quick resource for understanding your rights and obligations under the Construction Act. For tailored advice, please consult a legal…

Maximizing Space and Functionality in Custom Home Designs

Custom Home Builders Barrie

In today’s housing landscape, making the most of every square foot has become essential. As living costs rise, homeowners increasingly seek innovative ways to maximize space in their custom homes without sacrificing style. Modern home design has evolved beyond traditional…

ICF walls Ontario – Phase change materials

Making ICF Walls in Ontario Smarter: How Microencapsulated PCMs Can Save Energy and Boost Comfort Imagine your home’s walls as high-tech energy buffers that not only keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but also help…

Georgian Bay Housing Market Outlook 2025.

Georgian Bay Housing Market Outlook 2025: A Rebound with a Splash of Humor The Georgian Bay housing market is on the cusp of an intriguing turnaround—a story of recovery, rebirth, and, dare we say, a touch of whimsy. For years,…

Foundation Types in Ontario

Exploring Foundation Types in Ontario: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction In the vast and varied landscape of Ontario, choosing the right foundation for residential, commercial, or industrial buildings is not just about personal preference—it’s about survival. (Well, maybe not survival, but you’ll…

ICF vs. SIPs

ICF-vs-SIPs

🏗️ ICF vs. SIPs: A Comprehensive Comparison of Modern Building Systems The construction industry is evolving rapidly, driven by the need for energy efficiency, resilience, and faster building methods. Among the leading innovations are Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs),…

Sustainable Homes Ontario

Sustainable Homes Ontario

Sustainable Homes Ontario: The Future of Eco-Friendly Living I. Introduction 🏡 What Are Sustainable Homes?Sustainable homes aren’t just trendy buzzwords—they’re the future of housing. These eco-friendly abodes are designed to reduce carbon footprints, maximize energy efficiency, and minimize waste. In Ontario,…

The Future of Home Building

Prefab Homes Ontario

Welcome to the Future of Home Building Let’s face it—home building isn’t what it used to be. Gone are the days of plain wooden frames and questionable insulation. Today’s homes are sleek, efficient, and packed with innovations that make them…

ICF vs. Stick-Built

ICF vs Stick-Built

ICF vs. Stick-Built Construction in Ontario: The Ultimate Showdown When it comes to building a home in Ontario, you have two primary choices: Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) or traditional wood-frame construction. It’s kind of like choosing between a reliable tank and a wooden…

The Best ICF in Ontario 2025: Which One Should You Choose for Your Project?

Insulated Concrete Forms

🏗️ Why ICFs Are Revolutionizing Construction Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are transforming the way homes and commercial buildings are constructed. They provide superior energy efficiency, incredible durability, and enhanced soundproofing, making them an increasingly popular choice in Ontario’s harsh climate. If…

Smart Home Technology Trends

Smart Home Technology

Introduction: Welcome to 2025, Where Your House Roasts You Better Than Your Uncle at Thanksgiving Picture this: You stumble into the kitchen at 7 a.m., and your coffee maker greets you with, “Late night? Let me guess… another true crime marathon?” Meanwhile, your thermostat…

New Home Designs for 2025

The Future of Home Building: Smarter, Stronger, and Surprisingly More Fun!

Introduction: Why Your 2023 House is Already a Relic Let’s face it: by 2025, your “modern” farmhouse with its shiplap and subway tiles will look as outdated as a flip phone. The construction industry is sprinting into the future, fueled…

How Much Does a Geothermal System Cost in 2025?

Is Geothermal Heating Affordable in 2025? Let’s Break Down the Costs If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to harness the Earth’s natural energy to heat your home, welcome to the wild, wallet-busting, and wonderfully efficient world of geothermal systems.…

Home Building in Ontario Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Wallet!)

Home Building in Ontario

If Ontario’s home-building scene were a hockey game, it’d be a triple-overtime thriller: unpredictable weather, ever-changing rules, and a passionate crowd (read: homeowners) cheering for their team. From the misty shores of Lake Superior to the bustling streets of Toronto,…

Construction Contract 2025

Construction Contract

Decoding the Blueprint: A Comprehensive Guide to Construction Contracts “Warning! Failure to read a written agreement is not a valid defense!” This stark statement underscores the critical importance of understanding every clause, every line, of a construction contract. It’s not…

Cost to Build a House in Ontario (2025 Guide + Real Factors)

Cost to Build a House in Ontario 2025: Understanding the Average Custom Home Costs Ontario • 2025 Pricing Reality Custom Builds • Budget Planning Soft Costs • Site Costs • Finishes Cost to Build a House in Ontario 2025: Understanding…

Will 3-D House Printing Change The World?

Kamp-C-Saga-Space-Architects

The Evolution of 3-D House Printing In the ever-evolving world of construction, 3-D printing has emerged as a groundbreaking technology, promising a revolution in how we build homes. As of 2024, this technology involves using colossal printers to construct buildings…

Building or Renovating – What Makes More Sense?

What makes more sense? Building a new home or renovating an existing one? This is a question that homeowners and prospective homeowners often grapple with whenever they wish to upgrade their living standards. Well, there isn’t a clear one-size-fits-all answer…

Should You Consider Bridging Finance For Your Home Construction?

bridge loan

Should You Consider Bridging Finance For Your Home Construction? Keyword: Bridging finance for home construction Should You Consider Bridging Finance For Your Home Construction? Bridging finance can be a lifesaver when your construction schedule and your home sale don’t line…

Putting The “Con” In Construction Projects

construction scams

Industry Scams Home Builders Should Be Aware Of Canadian construction fraud alone creates annual costs of over $628,000,000 according to a report by Grant Thornton, a leading network of accounting and consulting firms. Construction fraud is on the rise –…

Why You Should Spend More Time Thinking About LED Lights

led lights

More Than Just Lighting: How LEDs Aim To Revolutionize Your Home  Lighting accounts for 4 percent of all the energy used in the average Canadian home. That might not sound like a lot, but LED lighting, which first became commercialized back…

How To Hire ICF Builder in Ontario

Hire ICF Builder

How to Hire an ICF Builder: Your Guide to Finding the Concrete Whisperer So, you’ve decided to build a house that laughs in the face of hurricanes, shrugs off skyrocketing energy bills, and tells nosy neighbors to take their eavesdropping…

Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertops

7 Materials For Creating The Perfect Kitchen Countertop

What makes a perfect kitchen countertop? The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers. The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to…

ICF Saves 60% On Your Energy Bills – Canadian Study Proves It

Insulated Concrete Forms

CLEB LABORATORIES THERMAL STUDY PROVES AN INSULATING CONCRETE FORM WALL CAN ACHIEVE UP TO 60% ENERGY SAVINGS AND 58% GREATER R-VALUE/RSI FOR HOME AND BUILDING OWNERS Ottawa, ON., March 27, 2017 – The Insulating Concrete Forms Manufacturers Association (ICFMA) recently…

Life Hacks for Keeping the House Cool This Summer

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Building a Better House with Concrete

Insulated Concrete Forms

Concrete homes assembled with insulated concrete forms give homeowners a superior comfort, solidity, durability, resistance to natural disasters, quietness, and energy efficiency.     What are insulated concrete forms? Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are hollow blocks or panels composed of…

Cedar Ridge – Now You’re Home

Sad but true: Climate change is altering our air quality, and water shortages are becoming an increasingly prevalent problem with negative repercussions on human health and animal habitats. Cedar Ridge is one unique place that nature has spared Imagine yourself…

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Nine Alternative Wall Systems For Your New Home

Rammed Earth Construction

1) Lightweight Steel Framing Lightweight steel framing consists of cold-formed galvanized steel “C” sections for joists, studs, and rafters. The steel segments come in various depths and gauges so that extra load capacity can be achieved by changing the gauge…

Investing in Solar Energy

Investing in Solar

  The price of solar panels is down. It’s fallen by more than 75 percent since 2009, according to prominent environmentalist Bill McKibben. This drop reflects increased efficiency, both in the manufacturing process and in the panels themselves. Still, the…

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open floor plan

The evolution of the North American house has drastically changed in the last couple of decades. Houses in the turn of the century still held many of the mid-century features that are rarely seen today. The division of rooms in…

Home Trends Move From Lavish to Practical

home trends

After years of dramatically increasing home size in North America – from an average of 983 sq. ft. in the 1950s up to 2300 square feet in the 2000s, the trend seems to be going in the opposite direction. According to…

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Building in Ontario

Picture yourself sitting on the wrap-around porch of your brand new, custom-built home, watching the sunset at the end of another perfect Ontario day. Or relaxing in front of a crackling stone fireplace as you enjoy a warm cup of…

Top Trends in Home Design for 2019

The new and upcoming trends of 2019 are growing stronger as the year progresses, and home design certainly doesn’t fall short. Although 2018 was certainly a leading and statement year in interior design and home decor, this year is beginning…

It’s Time To Talk Solar

Evacuated Tubes Collector

Canada imports oil from Saudi Arabia, Libia and other foreign countries to a tune of about a million barrels a day, which comes as a big surprise to most people. While this is no doubt great news for the Saudi…

10 Coolest Automation Products for Your Custom Home

Home Automation

Home automation products, while not new, haven’t gained widespread adoption. However, interest continues to build. Among all consumers, 48% said they were either “extremely or somewhat interested” in purchasing home automation products. Among smartphone and tablet owners, the numbers are…

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ICF-foundation

Got plans? Zero patience? If you’d rather see a ballpark ICF cost now than read the whole article first, run the calculator and come back with a smarter budget. Opens in a new tab. Planning tool only — not a…

New Home HST Rebate Calculator – Ontario

HST Rebate Calculator

New Home HST Rebate Calculator Ontario 🏡 New Home HST Rebate Calculator – Ontario Calculate your HST rebate for new homes in Ontario. This calculator follows Canada Revenue Agency guidelines and Ontario’s HST rebate program for new residential properties. Calculate…

Featured Floor-plan of the Month: The Ravenswood

Virtual Tour: The Ravenswood We love latest floor plans, and we know you do too! Take a look at the Ravenswood, 1837 square feet of usable space, and drool over this 3-bedroom sanctuary. Our latest “Floor-Plan of the Month” is…

Last Chance To See It – Home Is Sold!

Open House at 1413 Tiny Beaches Road North in the Township of Tiny. Saturday, January 30th, 2016 from 2 pm to 4 pm. Directions: Rue Lafontaine Road West to Tiny Beaches Road North. Sign on property. This home is SOLD,…

Georgian Bay Cottages For Sale – Enter Paradise!

Georgian Bay Cottages For Sale

While searching for Georgian Bay cottages for sale, you may be attracted to the idyllic setting and the casual remoteness of Tiny Township. It is located directly north of Barrie, along the shores of Georgian Bay in Ontario’s cottage country.…

How To Landscape Your New Home

How To Landscape

When planning how to landscape your new home, the very first thing you need to do is to create a plan of your property. As a starting point, you can use the site plan your builder gave you when you…

What Is Green Building And Why Do We Care?

green building

“BuilderBooks” recently released “What Green Means to Home Buyers: Perceptions and Preferences”, a new study of home buyer’s choices focusing exclusively on green-performance innovations in the new home building industry. The study explores buyers’ attitudes towards various green building features,…

Ontario Home Builders – ICFhome.ca

Custom Home Builder In West Luther

Ontario Home Builders – Helping You Wake Up to Your Energy Efficient Dream Home Every Day! Welcome to ICFHome.ca, the home of one of the top rated Ontario home builders. We suspect that you’re here because you were looking for…

How To Explain Radiant Floor Heating To Your Mom

How To Explain Radiant Floor Heating To Your Mom Keyword: Radiant floor heating explained How To Explain Radiant Floor Heating To Your Mom You know that look your mom gives you when you say something like, “We’re putting hydronic radiant…

The Health Risks Of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

engineering of compact flurescent light bulbs

Canadian federal government has adopted a national standard for lighting efficiency that came into effect in 2014. Most, if not all conventional, incandescent light bulbs do not meet the required performance level. The objective was to make sure that more…

The Ultimate Check List For Buying a Fireplace

Fireplaces

A fireplace will probably be a consideration as you plan your new home. The decision to include a fireplace involves lifestyle, room appeal, and the expected value it will add. Fireplaces vary greatly in efficiency. Some wood and gas log…

Choosing Your New Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing Your New Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing Your New Kitchen Cabinets: A Builder’s No-Regrets Guide Keyword: Choosing Your New Kitchen Cabinets Choosing Your New Kitchen Cabinets (Without Paying Luxury Prices for “Fancy Boxes”) Cabinets are one of those purchases where you can spend “reasonable money” or…

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Custom Home Builders in Ontario

As you drive around Southern Ontario searching for a place to build a perfect new home, the choices can be overwhelming. If you’ve never built a home before, it may seem a little discouraging. How do you build a quality…

Featured Floor Plan of the Month

Floor Plan of the Month

We love new floor plans, and we know you do too! Take a look at the Woodlands, 1971 square feet floor plan and drool over this 3-bedroom oasis with 1971 square feet of functional space. It is our latest “Floor…

12 Ways to Lower Your Home Insurance Costs:

reduce my home insurance costs

The price you pay for your homeowners insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, depending on the insurance company you buy your policy from. Here are some things to consider when buying homeowners insurance. 1. Shop Around It’ll take some…

5 Reasons You Need to Buy a New Home at Tiny Beaches Enclave

Floor Plan of the Month

Tiny Beaches Enclave by ICFhome.ca offers a country setting to call home within the rural hamlet of Lafontaine, Ontario. There are six custom estate homes available (one is already sold), all of which are nestled next to beautiful beaches of…

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How much per square foot

Land Transfer Tax Calculator Land transfer tax (LTT) is often overlooked when looking at the total cost of buying a home. All provinces have a land transfer tax, except Alberta and Saskatchewan, who instead collect a much smaller transfer fee.…

What You Need To Know About Construction Liens In Ontario

construction lien

What is the Construction Lien Act The concept of a lien goes back to medieval times when it initially applied to ships. In North America, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison came up with the idea of applying claims to buildings.…

Ontario Hydro Rates – The Study on Cost of Electricity

Example of an average residential electricity bill in 2024

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Waterfront Land For Sale – Northern Ontario

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11 Items on Every Home Buyer’s Wish List

Green Home

Deciding on individual specifications within a custom home build is based on personal choice and preference, however; there are quite a few specifications that most, if not all, homeowners universally want – regardless of family size or status. To help…

Top 9 Home Insurance Misconceptions in Ontario

reduce my home insurance costs

As reported by CBC News, an elderly woman battling cancer learned recently that the standard practice isn’t always common knowledge in the home insurance business. (CBC News article “Cancer patient’s home not covered for flood damage because she was away for…

Springwood – Our Most Popular 1,592 Sq. Ft. Bungalow

Springwood-1592-front1

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2-Car Garage | Timeless Elegance & Modern Comfort If this home looks familiar, it’s because you’ve likely seen its beautifully crafted design in some of Southern Ontario’s most desirable neighborhoods. Springwood is a stunning…

Flooring Buying Guide

Floor Buying Guide

When building a new home, the flooring you select can give each room its unique character, look and feel. Our Flooring Buying Guide is designed to help you determine what flooring is right for each room. Given the vast array of flooring…

6 Ways to Bring Down Your Mortgage Faster

6 Ways to Bring Down Your Mortgage Faster

A mortgage is likely one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make. With a quarter of a million dollars on the line and thousands of dollars in interest – it’s important you take the time to understand the optimal way…

Home Heating Guide

selecting a heating system

After we survived the coldest and the longest winter in recent history, we’re all glad that it’s finally finished, and there is relief from bitter temperatures and the high cost of heating our homes. The awful news in Ontario is…

7 Secrets to Designing Your Dream Home

Having a custom home built for your next property is a significant investment in time and expense, so it’s important that you have it designed to specifications that fit not only your lifestyle but on-going needs too. If you’ve never…

Insights From the Mind of the Homebuyer

Infographic-Insights From the Mind of the Homebuyer

As the busiest homebuying season of the year gets under way, potential buyers are poised to get off the sidelines and enter the market. According to Chase’s national survey “Insights: From the Mind of the Homebuyer”, potential home buyers say…

7 Ways to Get Cheap Financing for Your New Home

Financing For Your New Home

Purchasing a new home takes a major commitment; especially when you’re trying to finance the home as cheaply as possible. Banks and lenders seem to be all over the board when it comes to interest rates and amortization periods –…

The Need for Energy Efficient Homes

Energy Efficient Homes

Flying Cars or No Flying Cars, the Future Needs Energy Efficient Homes Our planet will be a very different place in the coming years. By 2050, Earth will be home to another 3 billion people, of which 70% will live…

Home Automation – Welcome to the New Age of Homeownership

Home Automation

Home Automation – What’s Next? While it was something, once seen, in science fiction movies and futuristic films, home automation (also known as SMART homes) are becoming an increasing trend as technology makes a greater push into society. With an increasing…

7 Questions to Ask Your Custom Home Builders in Toronto

Custom-Home-Builders in Toronto

Deciding to hire a custom home builder in Toronto is a major investment of time and energy. After all, you’re entrusting a company to design, create and build a home specifically tailored to your wants and needs – it shouldn’t…

Top 10 Kitchen Design Trends of 2015 and Beyond

kitchen-design-trends-2015

Having a custom kitchen is an ideal solution for anyone wanting to create a functional, practical space with current modern kitchen design trends. Although every kitchen should have the unique characteristics, a homeowner brings to space, following these to 10…

Top 9 Upgrades That Pay Off at Resale

If you’re purchasing a home from a new home builder, it’s important to consider which, if any, upgrades you’d like to have installed by your builder. While it’s important to create the home of your dreams, it’s also important to…

Septic Systems – Ontario

Septic Systems in Ontario

🧰 Builder Checklist • Lot Buying Septic System Ontario: What You Need To Know Before Purchasing a Building Lot in Ontario If your lot doesn’t have municipal sewer, your septic system isn’t a “we’ll figure it out later” item. It’s…

Closed Cell vs Open Cell Foam Insulation

Closed Cell vs Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Closed Cell vs Open Cell Foam Insulation Before we can go into that we need to start by saying that in the foam insulation industry there are usually two types of foam insulation being used, open-cell and closed-cell. There are…

Buying Property in Ontario

Lot For Sale

Many people in Ontario will buy a home or a piece of land at some point in their life. This is one of the biggest decisions anyone makes. It entails spending a lot of money and for decades making payments…

Plumber of the Year 2015 – Awards

plumber19

  Here at ICFhome.ca, we love a good plumbing joke. Plumbing is the only game where a good flush beats a full house every time! So, every year we compile a list of some of our favorite bits of plumbing related…

How To Find The Best Home Builders in Ontario

Great Looking House

We have never met a client looking for an average home builder. Choosing the best home builder for your needs and for the kind of home you are after, is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in your home…

13 Most Expensive Luxury Homes in Ontario

The most expensive house in Canada isn’t in Vancouver. It isn’t even in Toronto. It’s on the outskirts of Calgary: Property values are going up in the ultra-luxury market. Of the 20 Most Expensive Homes In The World owned by…

All About Gas Fireplaces

Corner Gas Fireplace

Gas Fireplace Guide for Ontario Homes: Costs, Safety, Efficiency, Venting, and What the Code Really Cares About A gas fireplace can be a fantastic upgrade in Ontario—real warmth, instant ambiance, and none of the “why does my living room smell…

For A New Home, Humidity Is a Double-Edged Sword!

You did not take me seriously when I told you to watch the humidity in your new home! I am really mad! In the recent month, I received 3 phone calls from my last year’s clients about their homes. The…

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“How To Build A Home Without Going Broke” Whether you’re hiring a Builder, or a General Contractor, using a Construction Consultant or managing your job as an Owner-Builder, you can use the resources presented to you here to get the…

For sale in Georgian Bay

For sale in Georgian Bay

Welcome to your brand new ICFhome.ca dream house. Model: Ravenswood – For virtual tour and the price click here! This is the perfect three bedroom, two bathrooms, single level home design, offering 1839 square feet of luxurious living space. For…

Cost of “Greening” Your New Home in Ontario

Green Home

Most builders, especially mass production builders, build to the Ontario Building Code standards only; meaning that they build to the minimum acceptable standards, equating to more profits for them. In Supplementary Standard SB-12 Energy Efficiency For Housing, March 15, 2013, update, you can…

Home design trends for 2015 – The Most Wanted List

Home design trends for 2015

Current trends indicate that, in 2015, new homes will be smaller, greener and more casual. At the end of 2014, NAHB Research Centre conducted a survey online in two phases. The first phase used screening questions to identify recent home…

All You Ever Wanted To Know about Spray Foam Insulation

spray foam insulation

With the increasing cost of energy and a focal point on health and green environmental issues, builders, architects, and other building professionals are recommending insulation materials to add exceptional performance value to construction projects. Spray foam insulation is still one of…

How to Design and Build a Deck

Deck Railing Design

Deck Design Requires A Careful Consideration A deck is a popular home improvement that not only adds to the value of your home but provides a focal point for enjoying the outdoors. You’ll want to consider carefully the design elements…

Energy Efficient Home Building

Energy Efficient House

  Ontario Home Builder Claims Minimum of 50% Energy Savings on New Homes As North American households face heating bills averaging at least 20 % higher than last years; the connection between household energy use and energy prices is evident…

Insulated Concrete Forms

Insulated Concrete Forms

Whether you’re building a home or a multi-level commercial structure, you can’t beat the rewards of building with Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF). ICFs provide a lightweight, high-strength alternative to using conventional wood frame construction. What are insulated concrete forms? Insulated…

Do I Have To Like My Builder?

Custom-Home-Builders in Toronto

So now you’ve selected a competent builder. But you may ask, “Do I have to like the guy? If he has a good reputation as a builder, does it really matter if I like him?” Yes, it matters. Don’t sign…

ICF Foundation Cost

ICF Construction

Ontario Costs Basement & Footings ICF Foundation Cost • Real-world drivers ICF Foundation Cost in Ontario: What It Really Costs (and What Actually Moves the Price) If you’ve been trying to price an ICF foundation in Ontario, you’ve probably noticed…

Helping You Understand Mould During Home Building

Mould While Building

The home building industry is certainly unique in the way that the end product is put together. A vast assortment of materials and trades people all make their way to an outdoor site where the final product, the house takes…

More Discussion on “Cost Per Square Foot”

Cost Per Square Foot

The biggest point when buying a new home always comes down to cost per square foot. Cost per square foot works great on TV shows. However, when it comes to a unique home, they provide only a little relationship to…

How Buyers Drive Builders Crazy

Future of Home Building

 Do buyers drive builders crazy or vice versa? At some point in the home-building process, nearly every customer will say, “This builder is driving me crazy.”  And — surprise, surprise — buyers also say and do things that drive the…

76 Things You Should Know About Accessible Design

Accessible Design

Building Homes With Accessible Design One of the significant demographic trends in the North America during the past two decades has been the increase in the percentage of individuals with disabilities. It is projected that by 2030, 25 percent of…

Choosing a Custom Home Builder in Ontario

Choosing a Custom Home Builder

If you’re in the market for a new home, you should shop for your builder as carefully as you shop for your home. Whether you are buying a condo, a townhouse, a house in a subdivision, or a custom built…

What Does A Home Builder Do?

What Does A Home Builder Do

What all does it take to build a house? Today’s homes resemble multifaceted machines and the successful home builder has the knowledge, organizational skills and drive to build them. So, What does a home builder do? A home builder must…

19 Questions to Ask Your Custom Home Builder

Questions to Ask a Custom Home Builder

Picking the right home builder is a critical step in the quest that points to your dream home. Asking builders the 19 questions underneath will assist you in choosing the right builder to construct your home — and give you…

Should You Stage Your Home To Sell Quickly?

Should You Stage Your Home

When selling your home, you want it seen by as many potential buyers as possible. First and foremost, you’ll want to find an agent that specializes in your geographical area and has a strong internet presence; ninety percent of all…

Six Benefits To Building a New Home

Benefits To Building a New Home

1. Get it your way. When you buy new, you get to call many of the shots. From choosing the lot, the colors, the materials, the amenities and the fixtures, you’ll end up with a new home that reflects your…

New Homes – Builders Ontario

New Homes Builders Ontario

Fresh Standards Being Instituted in New Homes – Builders Ontario The home building industry has been through significant changes and advancements in the last couple of years. Just a few years back, we at ICFhome.ca –  new homes builders in…

The Ultimate Solution To The Seat Down vs. Seat Up Argument

Seat Down vs. Seat Up Argument

The folding toilet that saves water and space in the bathroom: Gareth Humphreys and Elliott Whiteley, who are students at the University of Huddersfield, may have invented the toilet of the future or solved one of the age-old debates: Seat Down…

Why We Love Steel Frame Homes – And You Should, Too!

Steel Frame Home

Why You Should Spend More Time Thinking About Steel Frame Homes Lightweight steel framing is a practical, code approved solution to a few of the challenges that builders face today when using wood in framing homes. Although the idea of steel…

Do I really need a home security system?

Home Security System

Yes, you do! There is always the risk of fire, theft, or home intrusion. Whether at home during the day, asleep at night, or away, you will feel safer knowing that you, your family, and your home are protected. A…

Home Price Versus Lifetime Cost

Home Price Versus Lifetime Cost

You’re buying a new house. You’re thrilled and relieved. But if you’re like most new-home buyers, you’re also confused. What, precisely, do you need to know — and how hard is it to find out? First on your need-to-know list…

ICF R-Value – We Call This The ICF Effect

Insulated Concrete Forms

 R-value Explained Energy efficient construction is booming, driven by higher fuel prices, record-setting temperatures, and more stringent energy codes. Contractors are pushed to find better solutions for the building envelope. While R-values have been the traditional measure of energy effectiveness,…

How to wire your home for the future:

How to wire your home

If you are building a home, you probably want to plan it for home electronics now, and in the future. Here are some simple things to consider: Will you want music around the house? Will you have a computer or…

The Ultimate Checklist for Buying Front Entry Doors

Buying Front Entry Doors

Everyone likes making an entrance, and your front door is one of the first design elements that guests see when first arriving at your home. You want your door to be inviting and aesthetically pleasing to match your home’s exterior. The…

Kitchen Trends in 2014 You Must See

Kitchen Trends in 2014

The kitchen industry is seeing a shift away from the almighty all white kitchen trend which has swept the industry over the past couple of years and is now seeing a move towards natural materials, brass accessories, monochrome minimalism and…

The Intermediate Guide to Solar Water Heating Systems

Solar Water Heating Systems

Solar water heater is a device that is designed for heating water directly by using the energy from the sun. The solar water heating system consists of the following pieces of equipment: A solar collector. An insulated storage tank. Electric…

The Worst Year For Ice Damming – Now What?

Ice Damming

Ice and icicles on your roof may be cute, but they can tear off gutters, loosen shingles, and cause water to back up into your house. As snow continues to pile up on people’s roofs this winter, homeowners are up…

Solar Water Heating

Solar Water Heating

Solar water heaters can reduce annual water heating bills by 50% to 80%  Water heating can constitute 15% to 25%, or more, of the energy use of a home. The approximate annual cost to operate water heaters ranges from $300…

10 Steps to Building A New Home

Building A New Home

By Christine Cooney, Direct from the Designers Staff Writer Many of us dream of one day owning our home. We may purchase an existing home, select a new home in a development or build a new home. Direct from the…

A Step By Step Guide To Formaldehyde in Your Home

formaldehyde

  What is formaldehyde? Formaldehyde is a colourless gas. At elevated concentrations, it has a strong, pungent odour and can be irritating to the eyes, nose, and lungs. Formaldehyde is released into the home from a variety of indoor sources.…

Dream Home Plans: A Hilarious Blueprint for Disaster:

What 10,000 Pinterest Boards Have Taught Me About Human Delusion After 45 years of building custom homes, I’ve developed what my wife calls a “special kind of patience” and what my therapist calls “occupational PTSD.” I’ve built everything from modest…

Top 5 Things You Have to Know Before Purchasing LED Lighting

Purchasing LED Lighting

By Nick Senofsky, Lighting Unlimited Buying an LED light is very different than buying an incandescent light bulb.  An incandescent light bulb is a simple device with a tungsten filament. It consistently produces the same type of light with the…

9 Best Home Improvement Repairs For Your Dollar

9 Best Home Improvement Repairs For Your Dollar

If you’re thinking of selling your home in 2015 or just want to ramp up your home value, it’s important to educate yourself on which improvement projects will bring you the most return on your investment. An excellent resource for…

Energy-Efficient Homes Could Reduce Energy Use By 65%

Energy-efficient homes could reduce energy use

By Diane Swanbrow News and Information Services With high winter heating bills on the horizon in much of the country, a new U-M study shows that the total energy used during the life of a typical home in the U.S.…

Spectacular Sliding Door System: Evolution by Klemens Torggler

Evolution by Klemens Torggler

Austrian designer Klemens Torggler came up with a spectacular sliding door system. Evolution by Klemens Torggler   The designer’s Evolution Door slides open without the use of tracks. As you can see in the photo above and in the video below (in slow motion),…

Housing Starts to Stabilize in 2014 and 2015

Housing Market Outlook

OTTAWA, ONTARIO–(Marketwired – Feb. 6, 2014) – Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) expects the number of housing starts to stabilize in 2014 and 2015. Support from improved economic and demographic fundamentals will be tempered by a combination of a modest…

15 Mistakes Homebuyers Make And How To Avoid Them

Mistakes Home Buyers Make

Buying a home? Avoid These Common Buyer Mistakes! For most of us, buying a home is the single biggest financial transaction we will make. It’s exciting and fulfilling, but it can also be overwhelming, even downright frightening. The pitfalls are…

Roofing Shingles: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Roofing Shingles

What you need to know about roofing shingles If you’re buying a tract-built house, the chances are close to 100 per cent that the roof will be asphalt shingles, the most cost efficient roofing material currently available. The builder will…

3D Printing Will Transform Home Building – Contour Crafting

contour-crafting

Imagine you’re having a new house built. Workers prepare the building site then a 6-metre tall crane-like gantry is brought in and installed on rails either side of the house. The machine rolls back and forth extruding fast-drying concrete and…

A Ban On Doorknobs – Worst Ban Ever

Ban on Doorknobs

BY ANTHONY FUREY ,QMI AGENCY One of the most bizarre bans ever is gaining traction in cities across the country. A ban on doorknobs. First passed in Vancouver last November, now Halifax and Pickering, Ontario, are considering it. What could…

What Do New Home Buyers Want In 2014 And Beyond

What Do New Home Buyers Want

National Association of Home Builders’s consumer study, “What Do New Home Buyers Want,” takes a comprehensive look at what’s hot and what’s not among prospective home buyers. The 2013 survey was conducted at the tail end of a protracted housing…

The Ultimate Cheat Sheet on Home Construction Loans

Home Construction Loan

  How to get home construction loans to build your custom home: A down payment of at least 5-10% of the total value of your building project will be required. If your building project (land and house) is projected to…

Lighter Side of Construction Business

Smartest Dog A structural engineer, an architect and a builder are all standing around arguing who has the smartest dog. The architect says “Watch this. CAD, come here!” And his dog takes a pile of dog bones and makes them…

Home Building Costs Increase

Home Building Costs Increase

A new report from the National Association of Home Builders shows the costs of constructing a single-family home were much higher when compared to 2011, reaching $246,553 last year compared with just $184,125 in 2011. Much of this cost was…

Building Toward the Home of Tomorrow

Home of Tomorrow

The Home of Tomorrow — complete with helper bots and automated appliances — has long been the stuff of science fiction. The tech world is determined to make it a reality. Soon, the vision goes, everything from garden products to bathroom…

The Anatomy of a Great Construction Contract

Construction Contract

Warning! Failure to read a written agreement is not valid defense! A well-drafted construction contract clearly sets out the work to be done, the price to be paid for the work, and the terms and conditions of payment. The contract…

19 Things You Must Know When Choosing House Plans…

Things You Must Know When Choosing House Plans

Finding the ideal house plan to meet your lifestyle and needs may seem time-consuming or overwhelming, but knowing what to look for can help lead you to success when building your new home. 19 Things You Must Know When Choosing…

2013 PLUMBER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

How does this even get past the planning phase?   &%$@# Hmmmmm… Should have measured twice! Apparently, you don’t want anyone seeing your face, but everything else is okay? The oak seat is a nice touch, though. And the purpose…

Cost of Solar System for Your Home

Whether you’re remodeling your home or on the hunt for a new one, the cost of a solar system is on everyone’s radar these days. Installing a solar energy system can give your home that extra edge while saving you…

All You Need To Know About Construction Lien Act In Ontario

Construction Lien Act In Ontario

Construction Lien Act In Ontario – Introduction  Those involved in the construction industry are continually faced with financial risks not encountered in other commercial contexts. These financial risks stem from the fact that most construction work is carried out by…

Straw-Bale Home Construction

straw-bale-house-walls

Straw-bale home construction is a building method that uses bales of straw (commonly: wheat, rice, rye, and oats straw) as structural elements, building insulation, or both. The first straw-bale structures we know of were built about a hundred years ago by European settlers in the…

Post and Beam Homes

Post and Beam Home

Post and Beam construction is a method of building homes with heavy timbers rather than dimensional lumber Where low energy running costs are matched by precise engineering quality and a new home doesn’t need to come at the expense of…

20 Essentials of Great Log Home Designs

Home Designs

Everything you need to know to create a warm, comfortable, attractive log home. Over the last 30 years, architects and designers have taken log cabin design to places our founding fathers could scarcely imagine. Yesterday’s one-room cabins have become full-fledged…

18 Signs to Avoiding Contractor Scams

Avoiding Contractor Scams

At the beginning, we have to state that only a small percentage of contractors are bad apples. Those who are will cost you large in time and money. Fortunately, scammers and con artists are pretty easy to spot as long…

Radiant Floor Heating and Hardwood Floor

Radiant Floor Heating

Living in a radiant heat home provides you with a level of comfort that no other heating method can match. So, how do you combine this luxury with valuable hardwood floor?   Is the combination of radiant floor heating and…

Guide To Operating & Maintaining Your Septic System

Setbacks For Septic in Ontario

In this Guide To Operating & Maintaining Your Septic System, you will learn that the way you treat your septic system will influence how long the system lasts and how well it functions. If you own or rent a property…

Insulation R-Value? – Don’t Forget About Air-Sealing

R-value-home-energy-loss

By Leigha Dickens When we talk about energy efficient building, everyone wants to know about the R-value. “R-value” (that’s the inverse of the BTUs of heat transferred per hour per across a square foot of surface area per difference in temperature,…

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) – All You Want To Know

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) represents another choice for builders seeking alternatives for R-30 (or higher) walls for single and multifamily construction. Although a substantially different system than the more typical ICF construction methods, SIPs can achieve equally impressive results cost-effectively…

Energy Efficient Home For Sale in Tiny Township

$579,900.00 Energy Efficient Home – Less than $100 per month to heat this 1600 sq.ft. home in the midst of the winter: Wow, is the only word to describe this luxury “to be built” home!  Executive 3 bedroom/ two full…

Hydronic Heating

Hydronic Heating

Invisible, Clean, Quiet, Efficient and Dependable – Living With Hydronic Heating is One of Life’s Simple Delights In North America forced air heating is still the most popular because of its low installation costs. However, it is the most expensive…

Geothermal Heating Costs

Geothermal Energy Costs

A geothermal system is a heating and cooling unit designed to extract the natural heat stored in the ground during the winter and discharge heat from air conditioning to the relatively cold ground in the summer. This article discusses geothermal…

Energy Efficient Home

Title: Energy-Efficient Homes: Your Guide to Saving the Planet (and Your Wallet) Without Living in a Cardboard Box “Design energy efficiency into your home at the start, and the benefits will pay off for years to come.” Ah, the wisdom…

Wind Turbine – Should You Install One In Your Back Yard?

Wind-Turbine in action

1. How do residential wind turbines work? A wind turbine, which is installed on top of a tall tower, collects kinetic energy from the wind and converts it to electricity that is compatible with a home’s electrical system. In a…

Insulated Concrete Forms – FAQ

Building Curved Wall with Insulated Concrete Forms

1. What can you build with Insulated Concrete Forms? Cast in place concrete walls for bearing and non-bearing walls that have superior insulation built-in. You can use ICFs for foundations, exterior above grade walls, sound walls, residential, commercial, and industrial walls.…

Building With Insulated Concrete Forms

Building With Insulated Concrete Forms

Insulated concrete forms (ICF) is a method of building walls for reinforced concrete ordinarily manufactured with a rigid styrofoam insulation that stays in place as a permanent interior and exterior walls. 9 Things You Should Know Before You Start Building…

Solar Radiant Floor Heating – What You Need To Know

solar radiant floor system

Solar hot water heating systems are compatible with radiant floor systems for a multitude of reasons: 1. The radiant floor system requires water temperatures in the same range that the solar system can generate. 2. Hydronic baseboards and fan coil…

Insulating Concrete Forms – What you need to know

Insulating Concrete Forms

ICF-great-case-study Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF) wall most commonly consist of concrete between polystyrene foam, although other form materials such as polyurethane, recycled wood and cement mixtures exist. The foam is usually two flat pieces of either expanded polystyrene (EPS, average…

Simple Kitchen Ideas

Simple Kitchen Ideas

Update your kitchen with kitchen design ideas for everything from kitchen cabinets to kitchen islands. You don’t have to be stuck making meals in a kitchen that’s as dead as a doorknob. With little imagination and some effort, you can…

The Reality Behind Home Energy Consumption

Home Energy Consumption

Expensive is just one of the words that people today use to describe electricity bills. It seems that every day, the cost of electricity keeps getting higher and higher. Because of this, we all tend to look towards alternative energy…

How To Calculate HST On New Homes In Ontario 2025

How To Calculate HST On New Homes In Ontario

HST Calculator for New Homes in Ontario HST Calculator for New Homes Enter Home Price ($): Calculate HST 🏠 Overview of HST and the New Housing Rebate Purchasing a new home in Ontario involves several moving parts—and one of the…

New House For Sale

Treat yourself to this wonderful 1324 sq.ft. easy maintenance raised bungalow across the street from the beach; New House For Sale in Ontario 100 minutes from Toronto International Airport in the heart of cottage country; 2 minutes walk to one…

Healthy Home For Sale

Healthy Home

New Healthy Home For Sale – being build! Located in a very desirable neighborhood and a walking distance to the sandy beach with stunning views of Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain. Approximately 1800 sq.ft.  Raised bungalow with open concept living/dining…

Energy Efficient Home With Radiant Heat For Sale

Energy Efficient Home For Sale in Tiny Township

Energy efficient home for sale in Tiny Township – with radiant floor heat: Our most popular model “Springwood”. This open concept 1,592 sq.ft., three bedrooms and two bathroom home is now being built on a beautiful 1/3rd acres lot, just a…

Beautiful Lot For Sale

Beautiful Lot For Sale

Sorry, it sold! Vacant residential building lot in the beautiful area of Tiny Township. Street filled with newer upscale homes, seasonal and permanent residents including retirees and families alike. Country living at its best – on this beautiful lot for…

Luxury Home For Sale

Beautiful Home For Sale

Amongst A Forest – Character Style Luxury Home For Sale With numerous features and top quality finishing, this home was originally built as a show home for ICFhome.ca, a local custom home builder. This award-winning model is located in an…

Warm Floors for Less: Ontario’s 2026 Radiant Heating & Rebate Guide

16 Things You Must Know About Radiant Floor Heating...

Floor Heating Ontario 2026: Electric vs. Hydronic Costs (and Why Heat Pumps Changed Everything) If you’re searching “floor heating” in 2026, you’re not alone — Ontario homeowners have officially moved past the “luxury bathroom add-on” era. Today, in-floor heating is…

Solar Energy And Radiant Floor Heating

Solar Energy And Radiant Floor Heating

A clear trend is developing in consumer preferences toward the use of radiant floor heating in combination with solar water heating systems. Solar hot water heating systems are compatible with radiant floor systems for a number of reasons: 1. The…

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless Water Heaters

Save Money With Tankless Water Heaters Hot water heating accounts for about 20% (or more) of the average North American household’s annual energy costs. With energy prices rising day after day, it is becoming necessary to take a closer look…

7 Best Ways To Get Home Improvement and Building Loan

7 Best Ways To Get Home Improvement and Building Loan

  Home Improvement and building projects are widely popular credited to the growth of TV series and designer shows. While smaller projects top the list of frequency, such as painting and decorating, all home improvement projects can add up quickly.…

5 Reasons To Choose Blow In Insulation

Reasons To Choose Blow In Insulation

Insulating your home is pure and simple the number one way to save money on energy costs. In the old days, floors and walls were lined with just about anything to keep the moisture and cold air out of the…

Solar Hot Water System Design

Solar Hot Water System Design

Thermal energy is required in a high range of temperature in many industrial processes. Solar thermal systems are of great use for this kind of thermal processes. Using solar heat into a wide variety of industrial processes has been a…

Who is Who in Ontario Home Building?

Who is Who in Ontario Home Building?

“Discover a Home That Offers Lower Energy Bills, A Healthier Living Environment and Complete Peace of Mind – Guaranteed!” A home that stands up to fire, noise, sun, wind, rain, snow, bugs, mould and inevitable Acts of God like, earthquakes…

Brick and Stone Home – Is It More Energy Efficient?

Brick and Stone Home - Is It More Energy Efficient?

How Can Brick And Stone Make Your Home Energy Efficient A home thatís energy-efficient is healthier and more cost efficient. Energy efficiency modifications in your home can eliminate or at least lessen the poor quality of air thatís brought in…

Benefits Of Solar Water System

Benefits Of Solar Water System

With the rise in energy costs, more and more homeowners and businesses are looking for ways to reduce their energy use.  Solar hot watersystems are the most cost effective form of renewable energy currently available.  Solar hot water systems can save hundreds of dollars…

Get Your Power from the Sun – Photovoltaic Solar System

PV Solar System

Are you thinking of buying a solar electric system for your home or business? Solar electric systems, which are also called photovoltaic or PV systems, are reliable and pollution-free. They make use of a renewable source of energy—the sun. And PV systems…

Designing a Residential Solar Water Heater

Designing a Residential Solar DHW System

With the increase in electricity and gas prices, the need for renewable sources of energy is growing. Heating water accounts for nearly one-third of a typical home’s energy bill. Using the sun’s energy to heat water is not a new…

Solar Energy in Canada

Solar Collector

Solar Energy in Canada for Residential Applications Canadians can heat water for domestic consumption without causing pollution or paying for expensive fossil fuels or electricity – by using solar energy. While conventional water heating appliances cost money and pollute the…