renovation contractor oct/nov 2015

PLUS

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❱❱ CONTENTS ❰❰ COVER STORY

October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 3

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015 VOL. 5 ISSUE 5

We take a close look at the latest models of trucks and vans BY JEREMY SINEK

EDITOR’S NOTE

9 It’s Showtime! Join us at the fourth annual Renovators’ Roundtable. This year in Toronto and Vancouver BY JIM CARUK

Truckin’Keep on

FEATURES

21 Hands-On Experience Our annual review of the best

new hand tools BY ALLAN BRITNELL

36

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❱❱ CONTENTS ❰❰

61 Newsticker

Return of the reno tax credit? Does it apply to million-dollar parking spots?!?

64 It’s Time to Socialize BY CARRIE SHAW

66 Problem, Solved

Sharpen your pencils

HOT OFF THE TOOL PRESS

10 Hotwire Electric-All

4 renocontractor.ca | October/November 2015 Renovation Contractor

1012 Contest: Pinterested

in winning $500?

12 Oct./Nov. Calendar of Events MLB playoffs, NHL, and two Renovators’ Roundtables

16 Survey Says! More feedback from last year’s Roundtable attendees

18 Pumped Up: The Ion system by Metropolitan Industries

14 Domes and Nail Houses

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS

Seeking Attention BY MELISSA SCHENK

60

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HOME DEPOTTOOL RENTAL OCT_NOVHDC_15106NONE100%1” = 1”9” X 10.875”8” X 9.875”

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NONENONECHERIE RUDY/RACHEL JUNKERALANNA IRVINE4CHELVETICA NEUE, TT SLUG OTF, FRUTIGER LT STD

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9” X 10.875”9.25” X 11.125”

CYAN, MAGENTA, YELLOW, BLACK

If you need a heavy-duty tool to finish your project, whether it’s for long or short term, check out The Home Depot’s Tool Rental Centre. You’ll find hundreds of brand name, professional-grade tools, all at very affordable rates. Plus, the longer you rent, the more you save. And because our Tool Rental Centres are open late 7 days a week, you can buy your materials and rent our tools at your convenience - all in one trip.Visit homedepot.ca/toolrental for the location nearest you.

QUALITY TOOL RENTALS FOR EVERY JOB.

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QUALITY TOOL RENTALS FOR EVERY JOB.RENOVATION CONTRACTOR

If you need a heavy-duty tool to finish your project, whether it’s for long or short term, check out The Home Depot’s Tool Rental Centre. You’ll find hundreds of brand name, professional-grade tools, all at affordable rates. Plus, the longer you rent, the more you save. And because our Tool Rental Centres are open late 7 days a week, you can buy your materials and rent our tools at your convenience – all in one trip.Visit homedepot.ca/toolrental for the location nearest you.

QUALITY TOOL RENTALS FOR EVERY JOB.

WARNING: This proof is delivered on the condition that it be carefully inspected before going any further in the production cycle. Optic Nerve’s responsibility is limited to making corrections and/or replacing defective files. This file may not be reduced, enlarged or changed in any manner without obtaining written approval from The Publicis Group of Companies. [REF: PB-D]

NOTE: For emergency inquiries outside our normal business hours, including statutory holidays (M-F, 9:00am-10:00pm EST), please direct emails to [email protected]

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OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015 VOLUME 5, NUMBER 5

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFJim Caruk

[email protected]

MANAGING EDITORAllan Britnell

[email protected]

ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGERDarrell Leighton

[email protected]

VP SALES AND MARKETINGJeffrey Caruk

[email protected]

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERAni Bogovic

[email protected]

RENOVATORS’ ROUNDTABLE [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORSAlex Beraskow, Dane Burton, Frank Condron,

Doug Lockston, Pat Lynch, Lynne Jacob, Brett Lamb, Rise Levy, Bryan Locklear, Pat O’Reilly, Diane Peters,

Jessica Ross, Melissa Schenk, Carrie Shaw, Nate Smith, Jay Somerset, John Woods

ADVISORY BOARD

Jeff Andrew and Art Lussier, Superior Home Improvements, Toronto;

Blair Foisy, Trademark Renovations Ltd., Calgary; Ian Forsyth, Caneast Shows, Ottawa;

Dan Hall, Caruk Hall Developments, Toronto; Lloyd Lindsay, Lindsay Construction Services,

Guelph, Ont.; Dan MacKay, Dan MacKay Construction, Debert, N.S.;

Paul Richardson, PTR Carpentry, Toronto; Nate Smith, Conestoga College, Waterloo, Ont.; Roger Smith, Olson Construction, Golden, B.C.

Renovation Contractor is published by 2422625 Ontario Corporation six times a year

(February/March, April/May, June/July, August/September, October/November, December/January 2016).

Copyright © 2015 by Renovation Contractor magazine. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any article or artwork without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Publication Mail Agreement No. 42177515.

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIESc/o CircLink

6045 Creditview Road, Suite 309Mississauga, ON, L5V 0B1 Canada

Telephone: 289-997-5408 Fax 289-997-8260

THE VOICE OF THE CANADIAN CONTRACTOR

CircLinkBuilding the link to your audience

CELEBRATING 31 YEARS ESTABLISHED 1985

PUBLISHER

Michael Rosset

EDITORS

Gale Beeby, Rise Levy, Silvana Longo, Katherine Moore

PRODUCTION

Vice President Production Lisa Kelly

Technical Production Manager David Kucharski

Production Associate Yvonne Poon

ADMINISTRATION

Vice President of Operations Bernard Shankman

Administrative Director Cynthia Leo

Credit Manager Frances Mangos

Vice President Business Development Josh Rosset

Director of Distribution Nancy Frankel

Web Manager Regina Gadacz

Digital Manager Dave Gray

Receptionist Mary Armitage

SALES AND MARKETING

Executive Vice President Sales Cindy Lloyd

Senior Vice President, Sales Hope McLarnon

Vice President Sales, Builder Division Leslie Rubin-Orlinski

Director of Sales, Builder Division Heidi Lobel

Retail Sales Manager Fay Splett

National Sales Manager Trish Sutton

Business Development Manager Ani Bogovic

Senior Account Manager Tony Loria

Account Managers Kim Barton, Jessica MacInnis

Vice President Marketing/Media/Promotion Leanne Speers

Client Services Manager Sonia Presotto

Site Services Managers Paul Mogavero,

Amanda Rogers, Renee Solowoniuk

HEAD OFFICE

37 Sandiford Drive, Suite 404, Stouffville, Ontario L4A 7X5

Telephone: 905.479.HOME • 1.800.363.HOME

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: homespublishinggroup.com

HOMES Magazine, Condo Life, Reno & Decor,

Active Life, Ontario Design, BILD Contact Directory,

National, Fall & GTA Home Show Guides,

DRHBA Member Directory, Renovation Contractor

FSC logoHERE

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CHRYSLER CANADARAM Q2 MAGAZINE PRODUCTIONCCR 15 1052NONE100%1” = 1”9” X 10.875”8” X 9.875”

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CHAD HILLMANCURTISC. RUDY/A. KEELERJ. GREEN/ B. HAMMOND4CTT SLUG OTF, VENEER EXTRAS, VENEER, SENTICOSANSDT, STRATUM1

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CCR151052C_DRAWINGSBG_M.TIF CMYK 348 PPI CCR151052D_DRC15CA4_05_50M.PSD CMYK 302 PPI CCR151052B_RAMPM_LOGO_T_20M.PSD CMYK 486 PPI CCR151052E_DRC15CA4_06_25M.TIF CMYK 409 PPI, 435 PPI RAM_COMMERCIAL_HOR_4C_M.PSD CMYK 1615 PPI CCR151052A_PROMASTER_50_M.PSD CMYK 503 PPI

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INTRODUCING THE 2015 PROMASTER CITY.RENOVATION CONTRACTOR

q q

4 body types, 3 wheelbases,

4 cargo lengths & 2 roof heights

BEST-IN-CLASS

PAYLOAD1

854 KG(1,883 LB)

class-exclusive

9-speedautomatic

BEST-IN-CLASS

cargo1

3,729 l(131.7 cu. ft.)

OFFERED IN TWO-SEAT CARGO VAN AND FIVE-SEAT

PASSENGER WAGON

PART TRUCK. PART VAN. ALL BUSINESS.PART TRUCK. PART VAN. ALL BUSINESS.There’s a new Ram on the job. Ram ProMaster City. It’s upfit-friendly, o�ers Best-in-Class payload1 with plenty of

horsepower and torque. An innovative 60/40-split swing rear door opens 180 degrees to more cargo capacity than Ford Transit Connect, Nissan NV200 and Chevrolet City Express. Further proof that the new Ram ProMaster City

gives you a lot more truck in one hardworking van.

BEST-IN-CLASS STANDARD

PAYLOAD1

2,014 KG(4,440 LB)

BEST-IN-CLASS STANDARD

cargo

CAPACITY1

13,108 l(462.9 cu. ft.)

RAMTRUCK.CA1Based on Ward’s Large Van segmentation.

INTRODUCING the 2015 PROMASTER CITY.TM

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❱❱ EDITOR’S NOTE ❰❰

It’s Showtime!Join us for the 4th annual Renovators’ Roundtable in Toronto and Vancouver

JIM CARUK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It was about five years ago now that we had this idea that maybe we could put on some sort of event for our readers. We had no idea at the time that the Renovators’ Roundtable would grow into such a success and become a key part of our partnership with our fellow contractors and custom homebuilders across the country.

After three great years in Niagara Falls, Ont., we’ve decided to change it up a bit. Change is good! This year, the Roundtable will be even bigger and better than before, taking place in two different venues, the International Centre in Toronto on October 23 and 24, and on November 13 and 14 at Vancouver’s Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel. The 2015 event will not only feature new locations, but also new vendors, and some great new speakers (along with a few familiar faces). So even if you’ve been to previ-ous Roundtables, there will be plenty of great new things for you to see and learn.

This year’s seminar topics include:

• How to boost results from the time and money you invest in marketing.

• Working (well!) with designers and architects.

• Understanding the latest changes to building codes and techniques.

• Innovative new product demonstrations.

• And a whole lot more!

Plus, based on how well it was received last year, we’ll again be holding a Contractor Panel Discussion at each of the two Roundtables, where you’ll get to learn from the experience of a group of seasoned pros, and share your own tales from the trenches.

As always, you’ll have a chance to get your hands on the latest tools and building materials from a number of different manufacturers participating in the onsite trade show.

Of course, it won’t be all work and no play. There will be plenty of time to catch up with old friends, and make some new ones. There may even be some extracurricular activities…!

I know that many of you have been to all three of the Roundtables we’ve held so far, and I look forward to seeing you again. If you haven’t been to a Renovators’ Roundtable before, I’d strongly encourage you to consider attending.

We were still finalizing some details by the time this issue when to press. For the most up-to-date information on the event and sessions

we’ll be holding – and to sign up for the all-inclusive two-day event – visit the Renovators’ Roundtable page on our website, RenoContractor.ca/register.

Hope to see you there. RC

Sincerely,

Renovation Contractor October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 9

RC_101115_Ed note.indd 11 15-09-29 1:02 PM

Edited by Allan Britnell

RENOVATOR PROFILE

Oris and Hanna Taylor, along with their team, are dressed for success.

When potential clients call contracting companies and speak to a female, they naturally assume they’ve got the reception-ist and in-depth ques-tions will be answered in a callback from a trained professional.

Not at HotWire Electric-All in Vaughan, Ont. Important calls to the o!ce – which indeed can be first handled by female admin sta" – get passed imme-diately to Hanna Taylor. As co-owner of the business

TOOL PRESSOFF THEHOT


with her husband, Oris, a master electrician, and director of operations, she whips o" quotes and o"ers detailed, informed

feedback on the spot. “I can’t pick up a roll of

wire and start to wire a house. But I do as much as I can without being a licensed electrician,” says Hanna. “Ninety percent of the time, I can answer any question they have.” She also does all the schedul-ing, the payroll, the books, and the marketing.

This means Oris can be onsite all day and not con-stantly interrupted by calls or having to do numerous site visits to o"er quotes. “My husband does not run the business part, or the financial stu". He does

no admin. He’s a site guy. During the day, he doesn’t answer a single call unless it’s through me.”

This divide-and-conquer approach has helped the two-person company grow, over the last 15 or so years, to a sta" of 30. HotWire stays busy all year long, has become known for its design work, knowledge of outdoor lighting, and generators, and has landed

some huge gigs, including large custom builds and a new resort.

The company started small in 2001, when Oris began taking jobs after hours from his job at a generator company. After a few years, Hanna, who had a full-time job in human resources, started fielding calls and helping with paperwork.

That admin work soon

This husband and wife team have spliced together a surging business

HotWire Electric-All

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Renovation Contractor

involved marketing the company. In 2007, she listed the business on a brand new website called HomeStars.

With every job, no matter how small, she’d ask for a review. HotWire has 600 on the site now – it really did grow along with the now industry standard website – and gets constant new business from its listing.

That same year, Oris found he had enough work

to go full time. “It’s now or never,” he told his wife. Pregnant at the time with their first child, she wasn’t

thrilled. But, during naptime, she took calls and did paper-work. She returned to work briefly after her maternity leave and quit in 2009 to run the back o!ce full time.

Over the years, Hanna learned how to price out electrical work. She read code books, and still reads

constantly to keep up with new rules and industry trends. She’s seldom o" in her calculations of what clients need and how long it will take. To further promote the company, Hanna jumped on social media early, and uses that tool to network.

Today, the company runs with precision. Hanna stays on top of scheduling and makes sure all the guys are busy all day. When a last-minute call comes in for a small gig, she knows who’s the closest and who has time. Considering HotWire serves a 100 km radius in southern Ontario, that’s no small task.

The company specializes in new builds, mainly cus-tom homes, and is currently working on a 15,000-sq.ft. luxury home. Meanwhile, last year it secured the con-tract to do all the electrical

on Copeland House, a new resort at the Horseshoe Valley ski and golf complex.

Hanna layers these showier projects with small contracts, service calls, and winter calls for generator installations. “We make sure we keep everyone employed, we don’t do layo"s in the winter.”

This thriving family busi-ness means that Oris spends long hours in the field, while Hanna puts in ample time at her desk. “On the aver-age day we don’t see each other.” Nights and weekends are for family and, Hanna admits, talking shop. “It’s a family business. We put our hearts into it. You can’t have dinner and not discuss what happened today. You go to bed with it and you get up with it, it’s your baby.” —Diane Peters

FAST

FA

CTS

Company name: HotWire Electric-All Inc. Location: Vaughan, Ont.Year founded: 2001Specializing in: Electrical work on new constructionNumber of employees: 30Gross revenue: $2 millionWebsite: Hotwire-Electric.com


It’s a family business. We put our hearts into it. It’s our baby.

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OCT/NOVTOOL PRESSOFF

THEHOT

CALENDAR COUNTDOWN

CONTEST

Pinterested in winning $500?

As Melissa Schenk writes in her column, “Seeking Attention” (page 60), “social media is a huge part” of getting your com-pany noticed online. One of the best and easiest to use social media platforms for contractors is Pinterest, the photo-sharing site.

To help encourage readers to get involved – and share your skills with the world – we’re asking you to send us your best before-and-after photos of work you’ve done. We’ll post them on our Pinterest Before/After Board (Pinterest.com/JimCaruk_

RCMag/before-after/), and one randomly selected entry will win a $500 gift card from Home Depot.

To be entered in the draw, images must be received by 5 pm on Monday, Oct. 19, 2015. The winner will be announced at the Renovators’ Roundtable in Toronto later that week.

Send your pics to man-aging editor Allan Britnell: [email protected]. Please include your name, business name, and any-thing else you’d like us to know about your reno so that we can give you the credit you deserve online.

12 renocontractor.ca | October/November 2015

Our fourth annual event is taking place in two di!erent cities. For the latest details and to sign up, visit Reno-Contractor.ca.

November 11 Remembrance Day While remembering the sacrifices made by our men and women in uni- form is important, we also have the opportunity to do something in return by supporting organizations such as Renos for Heroes, which provides home modifications for Canadian soldiers injured in the line of duty. For more informa-tion on how you can help, visit RenosForHeroes.org.

November 13–14Vancouver Renovators’ Roundtable, Sheraton Wall Centre HotelVisit RenoContractor.ca for full details and to register.

Send us your before and after pics and you could win

2015 World Series Remember those two times when the whole country rallied around something happening in Toronto? Well, it’s been a long twenty-plus years since the Jays won back-to-back World Series titles. But at the time of writing this, they’re one of the favourites to go all the way this year. The regular season wraps up on October 4th. Here’s hoping by the time you’re reading this the Jays are still in the thick of it, and on the road to the franchise’s third World Series championship!

October 7NHL season startsBaseball not your thing? Don’t worry, the boys are back in town, with Montreal playing in Toronto and Vancouver in Calgary for the league’s opening night.

October 23–24Toronto Renovators’ Roundtable, The International Centre

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Enhanced Tru-Bond™

Sealant

Excellent Adhesive

Power

Triple LayerProtection™††

SureNail® Reinforcing Woven Fabric Nailing Area

THE PINK PANTHER™ & © 1964-2015 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved. The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning. © 2015 Owens Corning. All Rights Reserved. *The warranty can be transferred one (1) time. See actual warranty for complete details, limitations and requirements. †† This illustration depicts Triple Layer Protection™ and the amount of Triple Layer Protection™ may vary on a shingle-to-shingle basis.

Easy to sell. Easy to install.It’s easy to see why TruDefi nition® Duration® shingles are easy to sell. Not only do they have magnifi cent curb appeal, they have outstanding performance characteristics thanks to SureNail® Technology. These shingles have exceptional wind resistance that delivers a wind warranty of 209 km/hr* with only 4 nails. Plus, the highly visible woven engineered reinforcing fabric in the nailing line makes it easy for you to show homeowners why this shingle is different. And, more importantly, it makes it easy for your crews to install. Choose TruDefi nition® Duration® Shingles from a recognized brand leader in the building industry for over 70 years, Owens Corning.

1-800-GET-PINK® | www.owenscorning.ca

SureNail® Technology —A difference you can see and sell.

TruDefi nition® DURATION®

SHINGLES with SureNail® Technology.

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Dome-iciles Nail HousesFrom ancient Mongolia to a Disney-fied vision of the future, domed buildings have a long history – and a solid future

If a homeowner in China refuses to

around them


Inventor R. Buckminster Fuller introduced the mod-ern world to the geodesic dome in the 1950s. His patented design was used to shelter everything from advance-warning radar stations ringing the Arctic Circle to Disney’s Epcot Centre and the iconic Imax Cinesphere theatre at Ontario Place in Toronto. There are an estimated 300,000 geodesic domes around the world today.

Of course, domed domiciles predate Fuller by millennia. Mongolian yak-herders have been living in portable domed “yurts” (or “gers”) for at least 2,500 years. Today, several com-panies manufacture Yurt-building kits. You can even rent a heated, electrically

powered six-person yurt in Ontario’s Algonquin Park.

Early masons, recognizing a dome’s ability to transmit load downward and outward, made it the design of choice for some of the world’s earliest and larg-est places of worship, includ-ing the 43-metre diameter Pantheon in Rome (completed in 128 AD) and the Haiga Sophia in Turkey which, since its completion in 537 AD has served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, a Roman Catholic church, and a mosque, before being christened a secular museum in 1935.

If you’re not the religious type, there’s one other dome where people regularly congregate (and sometimes pray): domed stadiums, such as Toronto’s Rogers Centre, aka Skydome. The current title-holder for largest dome in the world is Singapore’s National Stadium, with a partly retractable dome that spans a diameter of 310 metres. to highrises goes up around

them. The developers refer to such homeowners as “stubborn nails” that can’t be pounded into the wood, and their homes are known as “nail houses.” The end result is some beyond belief streetscapes.

One of the most iconic photos in history is that of a lone man standing in front of a line of tanks during the Tiananmen Square protest in 1989. And while outward signs of rebellion aren’t gen-erally tolerated by the coun-try’s communist leaders,

many Chinese homeowners have taken a similar solitary stand against developers.

Unhappy with the compensation o!ered, or simply unwilling to move at any price, numerous own-ers have stayed put while everything from highways

BUILDING SMARTS BUILDING SMARTS

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sell, developers often just build

RCM

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FONT DISCLAIMER: The fonts and related font software included with the attached electronic mechanical are owned (“Y&R Proprietary Fonts”) and/or licensed (“Y&R Licensed Fonts”) by The Young & Rubicam Group of Companies ULC. They are provided to you as part of our job order for your services, and are to be used only for the execution and the completion of this job order. You are authorized to use the Y&R Proprietary Fonts in the execution of the job order provided that any and all copies of the Y&R Proprietary Fonts shall be deleted from your systems and destroyed upon completion of this job order. You warrant and represent that you have secured the necessary licenses for the use of Y&R Licensed Fonts in order to execute our job order and will abide by the terms thereof.

Vehicle may be shown with optional features. * With F-450, when properly equipped. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR vs 2015 competitors. **440 HP with 6.7L V8 Diesel. Class is Full-Size pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR vs 2015 competitors. †F-Series is the best-selling pickup truck in Canada for 49 years in a row based on Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association statistical sales report up to 2014 year end and YTD May 2015. ^ 860 LB.-FT. of torque with 6.7L V8 Diesel. Class is Full-Size pickups over 8,500 lbs. GVWR vs 2015 competitors. ‡The 2016 Super Duty with 6.7L Power Stroke diesel has best-in-class fuel consumption. Class is Full-Size Pickups over 3 856 kg (8 500 lbs) GVWR. Diesel fuel effi ciency claim based on Ford-simulated city-suburban drive-cycle tests of comparably equipped 2016 Ford and 2015 competitive models, consistent with SAE Standard J1321. Actual fuel consumption will vary. ©2015 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

Based on the Vincentric 2015 Canadian Fleet awards analysis, Full-Size Heavy Duty ¾-Ton Pickup and Full-Size Heavy Duty 1-Ton Pickup segments and the F-250 Super Duty XL Reg Cab 2WD and F-350 Super Duty XL Reg Cab SRW 2WD.

FORD.CABEST-IN-CLASS: 31,200 LBS. TOWING*| 440 HORSEPOWER** | FUEL EFFICIENCY‡

hicle may be shown with optional features. * With F-450, when properly equipped. ClaCanada for 49 years in a row based on Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association st

MAKE LIGHT WORK OF EVERY TOW.WITH ITS BEST-IN-CLASS TOWING* AND DIESEL HORSEPOWER,** AND 860 LB.-FT^. OF STANDARD DIESEL TORQUE, SUPER DUTY MAKES EVEN THE TOUGHEST JOBS SEEM EASY. NO WONDER F-SERIES IS CANADA’S BEST-SELLING WORK TRUCK 49 YEARS STRAIGHT,† AND THE TRUCK CANADIANS TRUST TO GET THE JOB DONE.

VINCENTRIC BESTFLEET VALUEIN CANADA

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At the 2014 Renovators’ Roundtable, we asked attendees to answer a few questions about their business, including, “What’s the costliest mistake you’ve made on the job?” Afterwards, we opened it up to online readers. Here are some of their best, er, worst replies.

2014 SURVEY RECAP

The crew installed wall cladding on a com-mercial building painted side-in, primer side out while I was laid up after back surgery.

Ran a 2x4 through a picture window.

A bathtub overflowed in a house that we’d handed over five days earlier. Water damaged the kitchen below and the basement below that. Clearly our fault. We replaced everything at our cost.

Drilled through a fibreglass shower I’d just installed.

I backed into a customer’s vehicle on site.

RC_101115_HOTP.indd 16 2015-09-24 3:28 PM

Renovation Contractor October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 17 October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 17

I missed some vital info on the drawings when making a quote.

We were doing an addition on a house and tied our weeping tile into the exist-ing one. We found out the hard way that the existing tile was actually higher when the crawlspace flooded. We had to dig a sump pit by hand, in the 4'-high crawl-space, hauling the dirt out in pails through a window. Then haul gravel back in....

Our excavator got stuck in the mud and, in our attempts to get it unstuck, the machine slid down a hill. Two large tow trucks spent six hours winching the machine back to safety.

House collapse.

RC_101115_HOTP.indd 17 2015-09-24 3:28 PM



After a career spent working with large-scale commercial pumps, John Hussey figured he had any water issues at home well covered, with a dual sump pump system setup, com-plete with a backup gen-erator in case the power went down. But while away on holiday in Florida, his

first pump conked out, and the float of his second one seized so it didn’t kick in, resulting in a 3"- or 4"-deep pool of water in the base-ment of his Cambridge, Ont., home, and $75,000 in damage. That’s when Hussey discovered the Ion system, created by commer-cial plumbing manufacturer Metropolitan Industries.

“It’s such a compact, sleek system. It’s almost foolproof,” he says.

Instead of a float that can jam like Hussey’s did, the system relies upon a patented digital switch that senses water pressure in the tank. “Moving parts eventually fail,” says Mike Firth, the Canadian rep for the product. With the Ion system, “Nothing moves and there’s no spark.”

The system has built-in redundancy with dual pumps available. But rather than having one pump do all the lifting, a controller makes the pumps work in tandem, operating alternatively so your backup system isn’t sit-ting idle for years on end.

The controller also constantly monitors and measures performance, including how long it takes to empty the tank. Any deviation from the norm sets o! the alarm.

Of course, the heavy storms that require sump pumps to kick in are often accompanied by power failures. So the system has an integral battery backup, linking one or two deep-cycle marine bat-

Pumped upIntelligent new Ion pump system by Metropolitan Industries is a game-changer

PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE

BY ALLAN BRITNELL

RC_101115_HOTP.indd 18 2015-09-24 3:28 PM


teries through an invertor. Depending on the number of cycles, the backup can run for up to two days. Some units can even be connected to solar or wind energy systems.

If there is an issue, the system notifies the owners via an audible alarm and the LED display indicates the precise problem. For properties equipped with

“I feel a whole lot more secure with this system in place,” says Hussey. “For the money [in his case, less than $1,000 installed] it’s the best insurance.”

For more information visit IonProducts.ca. RC

home security, the sys-tem can email the service provider in the event of a problem.

It plugs into a standard three-prong outlet, so no hardwiring required.

Installation is as easy as opening the box, connect-ing the outflow pipe, and plugging in all the parts. All components come with a three-year warranty.

It’s such a compact, sleek system. It’s almost foolproof.

RC_101115_HOTP.indd 19 2015-09-24 3:28 PM

Offering the performance of an air sander without the expense and

bulk of an air system, these low-profile, long-life, and low-vibration

sanders can run all day by limiting downtime caused by sleeve or

brush replacements. Pair it with our seamless, integrated system of

accessories, abrasives, carrying cases and dust extractors, and you’ve

got the ultimate sanding system.

INTRODUCING THE FIRST BRUSHLESS FESTOOL SANDING SYSTEM.

View our entire line at

festoolcanada.com/sanders

There are many sides to sanding. We’ve thought of them all.

THE PERFECT SYSTEM

ETS_EC_RenCon_Can.indd 1 9/18/15 10:47 AMRC_ADS FULL PAGE.indd 1 2015-09-23 5:25 PM

BY

AL

LA

N B

RIT

NE

LL

Increasingly, power tools help us get our jobs done quicker and with less fatigue and strain on our bodies. But there are

still countless tasks that call for an unplugged tool. Here we’ve compiled some of the most innovative new (or new to us),

non-powered tools to come on the market.

kk�HAND TOOLS jj

October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 21Renovation Contractor

Hands-on

RC_101115_handTools.indd 30 2015-09-24 3:50 PM

Renovation Contractor22 renocontractor.ca | October/November 2015

kk�HAND TOOLS jj

Hammer through it

DEWALT GRAVX HAMMER Earlier this year, DeWalt unveiled more of its expanding lineup of hand tools, including these one-piece steel hammers. Available in 16-, 20-, and 22-oz. models, each includes an anti-vibration grip, a magnetic nail starter, and a side nail puller.

DeWalt.com

GROZ INDESTRUCTIBLE SLEDGE HAMMERS

While a demolition tool that’s indestructible may sound a bit like an oxymoron, it also sounds like a good investment. The

indestructible part comes by way of flexible steel bars that run the length of the handle and lock into the head.

Models range from 6- to 14-lbs. in a variety of handle lengths.

GrozUSA.com

FISKARS ISOCOREBetter known for their cutting (and crafting) tools, earlier this

year Fiskars’ lineup of 15 IsoCore striking tools – including hammers, sledges, and mauls – picked up a medal for

innovative new products at the U.S. National Hardware Show in Las Vegas. The manufacturer claims their sledge

hammers deliver five-times the demolition force with three-times less shock than competitor’s models.

Fiskars.com


Leveraged assets

GRAY TOOLS INSULATED LINEUPWhen you’re working around high-voltage power you need a set of tools that can insulate you from catastrophe. Brampton, Ont.-based Gray Tools has introduced a complete line of insulated tools, including wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and sockets, all rated to 1,000-volts. The company – founded by the current owner’s grandfather in 1912 – manufactures a full range of specialty tools for the electrical, mining, and MRO industries at their factory in Brampton.

GrayTools.com

STANLEY FATMAX SNIPS

Stanley is cutting in on the snips market with 19 new models of aviation,

HVAC, and tin snips. The durable, low-profile tools include ¼" markings on the blade to aid in precise cutting

and come with a lifetime warranty.

StanleyTools.com

IRWIN VISE-GRIP ERGOMULTI ANGLED LONG-NOSE PLIERSThe 62-degree angle on the head of these Vise-Grips is designed for “a more natural feel,” reducing wrist strain while cutting through nails, screws, or wire. The induction-hardened cutters are treated with a rust-resistant coating and the handles include hooks for attaching to a lanyard. The German-made tools come with a lifetime warranty.

Irwin.com

October/November 2015 | renocontractor.ca 23Renovation Contractor



kk�HAND TOOLS jj

DEWALT CARBON-FIBRE LEVEL

Claiming to be a world’s first, DeWalt has introduced

a 48" lightweight carbon-fibre that’s 35 percent lighter than its aluminum counterpart.

DeWalt.com

Level with me

Unless you were still in diapers in the early 1980s, you probably remember a lot of talk on the news about how the U.S. Pentagon was spending $435 on garden variety, wooden-handled

hammers. (Some later accounts boosted the figure to $600.)

The story fed into a growing mistrust of government in the post-Watergate era, and later inspired Vice President Al Gore to dole out “Hammer Awards” for the worst examples of government waste.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t really true.

Government accounting practices required defense contractors to spread R&D and other overhead costs over all the items they were expensing. So those overinflated hammer invoices actually included

development costs for everything from bulletproof vests to laser-guided missiles. But, on the flipside, you could pick up bunker-buster bombs for a steal. —Allan Britnell

The Fable of the $435 Hammer

EMPIRE LEVELS Founded in 1919, the Empire Level Manufacturing Corporation is responsible for many of the technological advancements we now take for granted, including monovials and torpedo levels. Early in 2016, the company (now part of Milwaukee Tools) will release an UltraView level with built-in LED lighting so you can read the vials in even the darkest spaces.

EmpireLevel.com


PROOF # CLIENT: NISSAN PRINT PROCESS: WEB OFFSET PREFLIGHT CHECK

1 JOB NUMBER: NC4 NCV WP5524 SUPPLIER: STUDIO MAGAZINE/DM X SPELL CHECK X

AD NUMBER: NC4-524-1B_R1 STUDIO ARTIST: GL NEWSPAPER GUIDELINES XSEPTEMBER 17, 2015 TRIM SIZE: 9" W X 10.875" H APPLICATION: INDESIGN CC2014 POP/DIGITAL PDF PREPRESS X

MEDIA:RENOVATION CONTRACTOR

MATERIAL DUE DATE:SEPTEMBER 17, 2015INSERTION DATE:TBD

HEADLINE:ENGINEERED FOR YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS.

SAFETY: 8" W X 9.875" H FILE BUILT AT: 100% OF FINAL SIZE RESOLUTION: 300 DPI MECHANICAL SIZEBLEED: 9.25" W X 11.125" H COLOURS USED: 4 C M Y K IMAGE SIZE: 100% (MAXIMUM 150%)VISUAL OPENING: NOT APPICABLE LASER OUPUT: 100% TOTAL INK COVERAGE: 300%APPROVALSCOPY WRITER: ACCOUNT SERVICES: STUDIO MANAGER:ART DIRECTOR: LEGAL: PRODUCTION MANAGER:CREATIVE DIRECTOR: CLIENT: DATE:

The 2015 Line-upINNOVATION THAT WORKS

ENGINEERED FOR YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS.THE NISSAN NV200 COMPACT CARGO IS VERSATILE, SPACIOUS, FUNCTIONAL AND RELIABLE. Take your office on the road with a fold flat passenger seat, under-seat drawer space and a flexible centre console.Plus, thanks to integrated cargo-mounting points, 40/60-split rear doors and a low step-in height, you can move everythingyou need. And it’s backed by Canada’s Best CommercialVan Limited Warranty (5-year/160,000 kilometers),*so you’ve got one less thing to worry about.

* Nissan’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty basic coverage excludes tires, corrosion coverage and emission performance and defect coverage (applicable coverage is provided under other separate warranties).Other general exclusions and terms and conditions also apply. For complete information concerning coverage, conditions and exclusions, see your Nissan dealer and read the actual New Vehicle Limited Warrantybooklet. **Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for NV200. Freight and Pre-Delivery Inspection ($1,760),license, insurance, registration, dealer charges, and taxes are not included. Dealers may sell for less,which will in no way affect their relationship with Nissan Canada Inc. Equipment, specifications and price are subject to change without notice. The Nissan names, logos, product names, feature names, and slogans are trademarks owned by or licensed to Nissan Canada Inc. and/or its North American subsidiaries. Model shown NV 2000 SV starting at $24,948.

NV Line-up starting from $23,648** | For more information, visit ncv.nissan.ca

NV® Cargo Standard RoofNV200® Compact Cargo NV® Passenger NV® Cargo High Roof


Safe and sound

kk�HAND TOOLS jj

PROTO TETHERED TOOLSWhen working at heights, you don’t want to drop a tool. For one, it’s a pain to climb down to retrieve it. And, more significantly, it can be a major pain (potentially even a lethal one) if it lands on someone working below you. Proto has a full line of tethered hand tools and accessories, plus a variety of kits so you can retrofit your existing ones.

ProtoIndustrial.com

DEVISYS K1 HEEL STOPUnless you work in Victoria or the lower mainland, snow and ice

are a recurring jobsite hazard. These anti-slip heel covers have five spark-proof studs for stability in icy conditions. They slip over

your workboots, but don’t have to be removed while driving.

Geroline.ca


3M REUSABLE RESPIRATOR Contractors are increasingly becoming aware of the

importance of dust and fume protection. But if a respirator is uncomfortable to wear, it’s less likely to be used. 3M’s

6500 series of low-profile, half-facepiece respirators have been singled out for a “Red Dot Best of the Best”

international design award. A unique valve reduces heat and moisture build-up, and an optional “Quick Latch” enables

you to easily remove it without taking your hard hat o!.

3MCanada.ca

STEELFLEX OVERSHOE Do you cringe every time a client shows up and wants to loaf around a working jobsite in loafers? Keep a couple pairs of these made-in-Canada steel-toed overshoes onsite for visitors to slip on. Or use them yourself on those days when you’re going back-and-forth between sales calls and jobsites. The company also carries flexible steel insoles.

SteelFlex.com


WHAT IT’S MADE OF MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE. More than a rock, it’s fire protection.

ROXUL® insulation is stone wool, which makes it fire resistant. Made of basalt lava rock and recycled steel slag, ROXUL can take heat other insulations can’t and will withstand temperatures up to 1177ºC. ROXUL insulation not only helps you save on energy, it makes your home more safe.

Get more at roxul.com or visit homedepot.ca/roxul for a complete series of ROXUL how-to videos.

EasyFit


Cozy and warm (or cool)

Dressed for success

❱❱ HAND TOOLS ❰❰

CHILL-ITS EVAPORATIVE COOLING TOWELFeeling hot under the collar? Soak one of these reusable, 13" x 30" synthetic cloths in cold water, wrap it around your noggin or neck, and it’ll quickly cool you off.

Ergodyne.com

BLAKLADER LINED FLANNEL JACKETS AND KILTS UK-based workwear manufacturer Blaklader has a quintessential Canadian staple in its lineup: the lined flannel jacket, aka a “Kenora dinner jacket.” Pair it with one of their Craftsman Kilts and you’ll be a bi-national scene on the jobsite.

Blaklader.com

FEATHERLIKE FOOTWEARDo you know that old saying, “The shoes make the man”? Scuffed, muddy, paint-stained workboots do not make for a good impression on sales calls.

Toronto-based Featherlike Footwear provides fashionable men’s and women’s options for green patch, steel toe, and sole plate protection.

FeatherlikeFootwear.com


MAKITA COFFEE MAKERGranted, this one does have a battery…but it will keep your hands warm (and body caffeinated). Powered by either an AC plug or 18-volt battery, no doubt this one-cup, filterless coffee maker would come in handy on most jobsites.

Makita.ca


RC_ION AD_final.indd 1 2015-09-23 9:11 AM

Everything in its place

kk�HAND TOOLS jj

BOSCH XL CARTAll those interlocking tool cases are handy, until you try to lift them. The two-wheeled, lightweight Bosch XL Cart is designed to do the heavy lifting for you, carrying up to 300 lbs.

Bosch.ca

KNAACK AND WEATHER GUARD TOOL STORAGEEver drive by a large commercial site and get tool envy? Maybe a tool storage crate by Knaack will ease your ego. The distinctive brown storage units protect everything from tools to electronics. Need a more portable option? Look into sister company Weather Guard’s lineup of dozens of lockable, water-sealed truck boxes.

Knaack.com

MILWAUKEE 46" STEEL STORAGE CABINET

This rolling cabinet has 16 drawers capable of holding 1,800-lbs. of gear. Key features include a tool storage

drawer with built-in outlets for charging and a pullout shelf for reading documents or your laptop on.

MilwaukeeTool.com


PLAN STATION Two Wyoming-based contractors developed this product

after they “noticed that there was a lack of a functional workspace at your typical construction site.” So they

developed two models of portable, hanging work stations, complete with various sized pockets and a flat

24"-deep x 36"- or 48"-wide workspace.

PlanStation.biz (1) Heavy duty grommets at 32" center for quick installation. (2) Small pockets for pens, calculators, phones, etc. (3) Drink holder. (4) Wire access slots to keep your cords out of the way. (5) Large pockets for folders, pads – whatever you need! (6) Desk space project partner comfortably fits 24" X 32" blue prints.

1

234

5

6



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CONNECTING WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS

RC_RR15 houseAD.indd 1 15-09-29 1:09 PM

Trowel, trench, and trash

MAGLOK “INTERCONNECTABLE” TOOL SYSTEM

Start with your handle style (28" or 40" D-grips; 46", 60", and 70" straight) and material (fibreglass, steel,

or aluminum), then add in locking attachments including 12 di!erent shovel heads, six rakes, two scrapers, a 9-lb.

tamper, post-hole digger, brooms, mops, and more. Buy the striking handle and you can add a sledge hammer, axes, and

a lethal-looking thing called a “bush hook” to your kit. All components are covered by a lifetime warranty. RC

MagLokTools.com

HART QUICK- TATCH TROWELS

This system from Hart Trowels has a variety of floats and V-notched, square-notched,

and finishing trowels that lock into an interchangeable handle. Also available

in three- and seven-piece kits.

HartTools.com

DEMO-DEK DEMOLITION TOOLDesigned by a deck builder (who, by default, would also be a deck remover), this tool features a 48"-long, laminated bamboo handle attached to a steel hook that fits over the edge of deck boards. The manufacturer claims you can pry o! 300-sq.ft. of decking in less than 10 minutes with the tool.

GreenTekTools.com

kk�HAND TOOLS jj



Clamp down

CRESCENT 12" ADJUSTING PIPE WRENCH Crescent has introduced a self-adjusting pipe wrench to free up your other hand. The ratcheting system incorporates an angled tooth-design to loosen nuts and bolts, or fit around iron, galvanized, PVC, and copper pipe ranging from 5/8" to 1 1/2" dia.

CrescentTool.com

DEWALT TRIGGER CLAMPDeWalt recently introduced a new line of trigger clamps, each with a quick-change feature to convert to a spreader. The extra-large models, ranging from 6" to 50", have a clamping force of 600-pounds.

DeWalt.com

Completeour surveyto win a KOHLERtechnologyprize packvalued up to

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NO TAPING REQUIREDOne of the many conveniences of the SMARTWALL® system is the patented “Micro Bevel” edge detail, which eliminates the traditional taping stage of finishing the drywall surface. The micro bevel requires much less filler to achieve a finished surface, resulting in far less sanding and therefore less dust created.

NO FRAMING REQUIREDUnlike the multi-step process of conventional construction methods, DRIcore SMARTWALL® combines framing, insulation, drywall and a vapour barrier in one fast step. SMARTWALL® panels lock together using a tongue & groove system.

FEATURES:• INTEGRATED VERTICAL & HORIZONTAL WIRING CHANNELS • ACCESSORY PANELS CONTAIN ELECTRICAL BOXES.

• MICRO BEVELED EDGES - NO TAPING REQUIRED• TONGUE & GROOVE INTERLOCKING SYSTEM• HIGH DENSITY GRAPHITE INFUSED EPS INSULATION• OSB FRAMING MEMBERS• 1/2" PRIMED DRYWALL WITH VAPOUR BARRIER

SMARTWALL® INCLUDES FRAMING INSULATION VAPOUR BARRIER DRYWALL

As a professional contractor, being under pressure is nothing new to you. That’s why using products that help you to get the job done faster is a must. DRIcore SMARTWALL® simplifies basement finishing by providing a product that is 5x faster compared to conventional construction methods.

DEADLINES TO MEET?BUILD FASTER. FINISH SOONER!DRICORE SMARTWALL® SIMPLIFIES BASEMENT FINISHING

ALL-IN-ONE BASEMENT WALL SYSTEM

WWW.DRICORE.COMMADE IN CANADA

AVAILABLE AT:

HIGH PERFORMANCEWALL ASSEMBLYR16

FASTER THANCONVENTIONAL FRAMINGAND FINISHING METHODS.5X PANELS WEIGH JUST

30 POUNDS.30LBSSee file number E10540

NO TAPING REQUIRED MEETS ALL NATIONAL BUILDING CODEAND ELECTRICAL CODE REQUIREMENTS.

COMPARING THE OLDWAY VS THE NEW WAY.The SMARTWALL® Challenge -Watch Adam take on traditional building methods with DRIcore SMARTWALL®. Which method is faster? Watch to find out!

CLEANER THANCONVENTIONAL FRAMINGAND FINISHING METHODS10X

Use the scan app on your smartphone to view this video

RC_ADS_SPREAD.indd 4 2015-09-23 5:23 PM

NO TAPING REQUIREDOne of the many conveniences of the SMARTWALL® system is the patented “Micro Bevel” edge detail, which eliminates the traditional taping stage of finishing the drywall surface. The micro bevel requires much less filler to achieve a finished surface, resulting in far less sanding and therefore less dust created.

NO FRAMING REQUIREDUnlike the multi-step process of conventional construction methods, DRIcore SMARTWALL® combines framing, insulation, drywall and a vapour barrier in one fast step. SMARTWALL® panels lock together using a tongue & groove system.

FEATURES:• INTEGRATED VERTICAL & HORIZONTAL WIRING CHANNELS • ACCESSORY PANELS CONTAIN ELECTRICAL BOXES.

• MICRO BEVELED EDGES - NO TAPING REQUIRED• TONGUE & GROOVE INTERLOCKING SYSTEM• HIGH DENSITY GRAPHITE INFUSED EPS INSULATION• OSB FRAMING MEMBERS• 1/2" PRIMED DRYWALL WITH VAPOUR BARRIER

SMARTWALL® INCLUDES FRAMING INSULATION VAPOUR BARRIER DRYWALL

As a professional contractor, being under pressure is nothing new to you. That’s why using products that help you to get the job done faster is a must. DRIcore SMARTWALL® simplifies basement finishing by providing a product that is 5x faster compared to conventional construction methods.

DEADLINES TO MEET?BUILD FASTER. FINISH SOONER!DRICORE SMARTWALL® SIMPLIFIES BASEMENT FINISHING

ALL-IN-ONE BASEMENT WALL SYSTEM

WWW.DRICORE.COMMADE IN CANADA

AVAILABLE AT:

HIGH PERFORMANCEWALL ASSEMBLYR16

FASTER THANCONVENTIONAL FRAMINGAND FINISHING METHODS.5X PANELS WEIGH JUST

30 POUNDS.30LBSSee file number E10540

NO TAPING REQUIRED MEETS ALL NATIONAL BUILDING CODEAND ELECTRICAL CODE REQUIREMENTS.

COMPARING THE OLDWAY VS THE NEW WAY.The SMARTWALL® Challenge -Watch Adam take on traditional building methods with DRIcore SMARTWALL®. Which method is faster? Watch to find out!

CLEANER THANCONVENTIONAL FRAMINGAND FINISHING METHODS10X

Use the scan app on your smartphone to view this video

RC_ADS_SPREAD.indd 5 2015-09-23 5:23 PM


kk�TRUCKS + VANS jj

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 30 2015-09-25 10:03 AM


Could Canadians’ love affair with pickups be fading? The sales numbers say not. In the first half of 2015, pickup sales grew six percent, more than double the pace of the overall market. Look a little deeper, though, and we find that sales of traditional full-size pickups grew less than four percent. A big chunk of the gain was driven by midsize pickups – a category revitalised by the return of GM. Total sales for the category spiked more than 60 percent.

That’s not the only hint of change in the air. In Europe, tradesmen rarely use pickups, they use vans. And many of those vans are crossing the Atlantic. Traditional American-style V8 “white vans” are giving way to e!cient European models with fuel-frugal diesel engines. At the same time, an expand-ing category of compact vans is providing options that are even more economical, as well as easier to manoeuvre and park around crowded jobsites.

Don’t worry. If you’re still wedded to your half-ton pickup we’ve got the gu" on the 2016s. But if you’re ready to think outside the 8’ box, you’ll find all your

other options described in the pages that follow. kk

Or is it time to think outside the box and switch to a van? Here, we review the latest

models of both to help you decide

BY JEREMY SINEK

Truckin’Keep on

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 31 2015-09-25 10:03 AM



GM seems to have tapped into a need with its new-last-year midsize pickups. The Chev/GMC siblings are selling well, and without cannibalising sales from their full-size counterparts.

And their success so far has been achieved without the promised diesel option, which is now coming on stream to join the existing

2016 GMC CANYON2.5-L four-cylinder and 3.6-L V6 gas engines. The 2.8-L four-cylinder turbo diesel will come only with automatic transmission and be worth 181 horsepower, with a rich 369 lb.-ft. of torque.

Although a far cry from the old compacts like Chev S10, the Colorado and Canyon do provide a handier-sized and more

fuel-frugal alternative to full-sizers, while still o!ering more capability than most owners will ever really need. Extended or Crew cabs and two box lengths match the Toyota Tacoma for choice, and a suitably equipped diesel can tow 7,700 lbs. – 700 lbs. more than the gasoline V6. These aren’t small trucks, they’re just less big.


2016 CHEVROLET COLORADO/

GMC CANYON SPECS

BASE MSRP

$19,900*

MAX TOW

7,700 lbs.BOX SIZES

.'+�//'+�ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

2.5-L L4 (6MT or 6AT)

2.8-L L4 Turbo Diesel (6AT)

3.6-L V6 (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

10.5 – 11.8 L/100 km (Combined) *2015 models

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 32 2015-09-25 8:08 AM

@SchlageCanada

SchlageLocksCanada

INTRODUCING

Schlage Touch™

With Schlage Touch™, no key means there’s nothing to lose, nothing to fiddle with and—for intruders—nothing to pick. All in a slim profile that’s every bit as sleek as it is strong.Keyless. Simple. Convenient.

2016 CHEVROLET COLORADO

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 33 2015-09-25 8:08 AM


2016 CHEVROLET SILVERADO/

GMC SIERRA SPECS

BASE MSRP

$27,950*MAX TOW

12,000 lbs.BOX SIZES

.'0�//'.�/1')�ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

4.3-L V6 (6AT)

5.3-L V8 (6AT or 8AT)

6.2-L V8 (8AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

11.4 –13.3 L/100 km (Combined) * 2015

2016 CHEVROLET SILVERADO


RC_101115_Trucks.indd 34 2015-09-25 8:08 AM

There’s no fancy-schmancy aluminum sheet-metal in GM’s pickup o!ering, and no available diesel, but buyers seem fine with that: as of August, combined sales of the GM twins were growing faster than either of their Detroit rivals.

GM’s approach to the fuel-economy imperative has been more-speed trans-missions and painstakingly

optimised 4.3-L V6 and 5.3- or 6.2-L V8 gasoline engines (at 420 hp the 6.2 is the most powerful o!ered in a half-ton). The use of features like variable valve timing and direct fuel injection on simple pushrod OHV engines is unique to GM. And for 2016 GM is making the eight-speed automatic available on more 5.3-engined models (others remain six-speeds).

The most obvious changes, however, are right in your face: the Chev and GMC have each had nose jobs with much use of LED lighting. As well, there are upgrades – such as support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay – to the standard or available on-board IT and associated touch-screen radio/navi units. Keep it simple, do it right, is GM’s approach.

2016 GMC SIERRA


RC_101115_Trucks.indd 35 2015-09-25 8:08 AM


While the Detroit competition source modern full-size vans from Europe, GM soldiers on with its traditional North American-style V8-engined o!erings that last had a major redesign in 1996! If nothing else, they are well proven. They can also tow more than the competition.For 2016, they get more


2016 CHEVROLET EXPRESS/

GMC SAVANA SPECS

BASE MSRP

$35,785MAX TOW

10,000 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/ CARGO VOLUME

4,120 lbs./ 284 cu.ft.

MAX CARGO FLOOR LENGTH

*+'2�ENGINES (TRANS)

4.8-L V8 (6AT)

6.0-L V8 (6AT)

6.6-L V8 Diesel (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

18.0–19.0 L/100 km (Combined) *2015

airbags, and newly available state-of-the-art connectivity options: MyLink navigation radio, and OnStar with 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi hotspot. Available in 2500 or 3500 models and in two wheelbase lengths, the van twins have an all-V8 powertrain line-up – 4.8 or 6.0-litre gasoline or 6.6-litre diesel – all hitched to a six-speed automatic.

An unusual feature is a choice between standard 60/40-split swing-out cargo doors, or a sliding door, on the passenger side. A driver-side cargo door is not available even as an option, nor a high roof. However there is an available Crew version of the cargo van that adds a three-person, second-row bench.

2016 CHEVROLET EXPRESS2016 GMC SAVANA

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 36 2015-09-25 8:08 AM

Copyright ©2015 DEWALT. The following are examples of trademarks for one or more DEWALT power tools and accessories: the yellow and black color scheme; the “D”-shaped air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip; the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool. *Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18. ** On average when used with a DEWALT 20V MAX* 4.0 Ah battery in 3-1/4˝ pine base molding.

UP TO

275 CUTS PER CHARGE**

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DEWALT_DCS361_PrintAd_Eng.pdf 1 9/21/15 11:28 AM


2016 RAM 1500 SPECS

BASE MSRP

$28,595*MAX TOW


.'/�//',�/1')�ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

3.6-L V6 (8AT)

3.0-L Turbo-diesel V6 (8AT)

5.7-L V8 (6AT or 8AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

9.8–15.4 L/100 km (Combined) *2015



2016 RAM 1500

Ford may have its aluminum body, but Ram still claims half-ton fuel-economy leadership thanks to its available 3.0-L V6 turbo-diesel teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission. And that’s without the HFE package

that cuts consumption even further. The hefty price of the diesel option will take a long time to pay o! in fuel savings, though.

Alternatively Ram also offers the strongest standard engine in a half-ton – the 395-hp 5.7-litre Hemi V8 is standard while the

smaller 305-hp 3.6-L V6 costs extra. Go figure. Mind you, the 3.6 does include the eight- speed autobox, while the “free” V8 comes with a six-speed (the eight-speed is optional).

Another feature unique to Ram is its coil-spring rear suspension (with air suspension optional) that provides better ride and stability on rough surfaces.

New for 2016 are two new trims: o!-road oriented Rebel, and ultra-luxe Laramie Limited. Each has its own new grille design that’s distinct from those of other Rams.

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 37 2015-09-25 8:08 AM



2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY 2016 RAM PROMASTER CITY

SPECS

BASE MSRP

$24,495*MAX TOW

2,000 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/VOLUME

1,883 lbs./132 cu.ft.


0',�ENGINES AVAILABLE

(TRANS)

2.4 L L4 (9AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

9.8 L/100 km (Combined) *2015

Ram once again leverages its Fiat connection to expand its presence in the commercial van market. Slotting in below the full-size Promaster, the Promaster City is based on the European Fiat Doblo and joins the compact cargo van segment already contested by the Ford Transit Connect and the Chev City Express/Nissan NV200 twins.

The Ram is closest in size to the Ford, with which it

trades claims and counter-claims for best-in-class capability (horsepower, payload, cargo volume, floor area, tow rating, et cetera). We’d call it a wash, overall, though it’s worth noting only the Ram has more than 48-inches width at the floor between the wheel wells.

The Ram also stands out for its unique combination of available people and cargo space. The wagon version

adds a 60/40-split three-person, second-row bench (which can fold-and-tumble as needed) and sliding-door windows, while the remaining cargo area is left free and clear for work (the Ford wagon, conversely, is a fully-trimmed passenger van with three-row seating).

Promaster City cargo van and passenger wagon are each available in ST or SLT trim grades, and all are front-wheel driven by a 178-hp, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine hitched to a 9-speed automatic transmission.

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 38 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

The former Dodge Truck division went fully Euro when it finally returned to the full-size van arena in 2014. The unibody Promaster is based on parent company Fiat’s Ducato, complete with the only front-wheel-drive powertrain in this full-size van category.

Traditionalists may be leery of FWD for load lugging duties, but claimed


2016 RAM PROMASTER

advantages include low vehicle mass – which grants Promaster a best-in-class max payload – a lowest-in-class load floor, and tight turning radius. A 14-model lineup o!ers varying combos of two roof heights, three wheelbases, and four body lengths, including chassis/cabs and cutaways. Dual sliding doors are available, as is the segment’s only three-

person front seating.Engine options are a 280-hp 3.6-litre gas V6 or a 174-hp 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel. While the gas engine is paired with a conventional six-speed automatic, the diesel’s six-speed is a unique-in-segment automated manual which helps it achieve claimed best-in-class fuel economy.

2016 RAM PROMASTER SPECS

BASE MSRP

$27,495MAX TOW

5,100 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/CARGO VOLUME

5,160 lbs./463 cu.ft.


*,',�ENGINES (TRANS)

3.6-L V6 (6AT)

3.0-L Turbo V4 Diesel (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTIONNA

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 39 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

Model-year 2015 was the biggie for North America’s top-selling nameplate, with the debut of the new-generation F-Truck sporting the segment’s only all-aluminum body. It was a huge, brave choice by Ford in


❱❱ TRUCKS + VANS ❰❰

2016 FORD F-150

response to the pressure to reduce our consumption of climate-changing fossil fuels.

After that you’d think Ford would pause for breath, but there is one significant novelty for 2016: Pro Trailer Back-up Assist is an option

that steers and controls the truck’s speed automatically while all the driver has to do is steer instinctively by turning a knob left or right. Also for 2016, F-150 gets SYNC3 and new appearance packages for XLT and Lariat.

Available with three V6 engine choices from 282 to 365 hp, plus a 385-hp 5.0-L V8, even the light-duty F-150 can tow up to 12,200 lbs., while the F-350 SuperDuty claims a segment-leading (at least this month) 31,200 lbs.

2016 FORD F-150 SPECS

BASE MSRP

$23,728*MAX TOW


5.5’/6.5’/ 8.0’ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

3.5-L V6 (6AT)

2.7-L Turbo V6 (6AT)


5.0-L V8 (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

10.9–13.9 L/100 km (Combined) * 2015

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 40 2015-09-25 10:09 AM


The Transit Connect pioneered Class 1 commercial vans in Canada, and the nameplate is now in its second generation. The cargo van comes in two wheelbase lengths stateside, but Canada gets only the long version (a passenger-wagon version with three-row seating and a fully trimmed cabin is aimed at the taxi industry).

While key rivals have 60/40-split rear cargo doors, the Ford o!ers a choice between 50/50 twin doors or a lifting tailgate. Dual sliding side doors are standard.

There’s additional choice under the hood: 169-hp 2.5-litre base engine or 178-hp 1.6-litre EcoBoost. Both engines are four-cylinders mated to six-speed front-wheel-drive automatics.

Like most of its compe-

2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT

2016 FORD TRANSIT

CONNECT

BASE MSRP

$25,959*MAX TOW

2,000 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/CARGO VOLUME

1,620 lbs./129 cu.ft.


0',�ENGINES (TRANS)

2.5-L L4 (6AT)

1.6-L L4 Turbo (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

9.4–9.9 L/100 km (Combined) *2015

titors the Transit Connect comes in two trim grades; available options include a rear-view camera, 6.5-inch touch-screen with navi, and SYNC with MyFord Touch.

New last-year, the European-style Transit replaced the venerable E-Series as Ford’s full-size van contender, and quickly became the segment’s best seller.

Credit that success in no small part to the exceptional range of choice it o!ers via various permutations of two wheelbases, three body lengths, three roof heights, and gas or diesel engines. For 2016, the versatility is enhanced by available dual sliding side doors. Throw in chassis-cab and cutaway body styles, and there are now 58 configurations to choose from, by Ford’s count.

The gas engines are both V6s – 275-hp 3.7-L naturally aspirated or 310-hp 3.5-L turbocharged – and the diesel is a 185-hp 3.2-L 5-cylinder turbo. All are hitched to six-speed automatic transmissions.

Like its cross-town Euro-

2016 FORD TRANSIT

2016 FORD TRANSIT

BASE MSRP

$29,552*MAX TOW

NA

MAX PAYLOAD/CARGO VOLUME

3,680 lbs./487 cu.ft.


*-',�ENGINES (TRANS)

3.7-L V6 (6AT)


3.2-L Turbo L5 Diesel (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

NA–14.8 L/100 km (Combined) *2015

style rival, the Ram Promaster, the Transit features unibody construction, but unlike the Ram it keeps with North American tradition in sending its power to the rear wheels.


RC_101115_Trucks.indd 41 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

2016 MERCEDES-BENZ METRISYou know that the market for smaller, city-sized vans is here to stay when Mercedes throws its hat in the ring. For 2016 the full-size Sprinter has a new kid brother, the Metris. That said, although it’s smaller, cheaper, and more fuel-e!cient than its sibling, the Metris outsizes other automakers’ little ’uns like the Nissan NV200, Ford Transit Connect, and Ram Promaster City.

In short, the Metris is a new class of midsize



2016 MERCEDES-BENZ METRIS

SPECS

BASE MSRP

TBAMAX TOW

4,960 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/

VOLUME

2,502 lbs./186 cu.ft.


2',�ENGINES AVAILABLE

(TRANS)

2.0-L L4 Turbo (7AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

TBA(Combined)

commercial van. At 5.14 metres it’s the same length as a Mom’s-taxi Dodge Grand Caravan (and is also available as a 7 or 8-seater passenger wagon). Payload, tow capacity, and cargo volume are correspondingly greater than those o"ered by the aforementioned compacts.

Fans of the Sprinter’s diesel engines may be disappointed the Metris is available only with a gasoline mill. It’s basically the same 2.0-litre, 208-hp turbo four as

used in some FWD Mercedes cars, though here it drives the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Premium gas is recommended, though it can run safely on regular with some loss of e!ciency.

As you’d expect, this Mercedes of vans is big on safety, with standard crosswind assist and attention assist, plus available collision avoidance assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 42 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

The Sprinter isn’t the most a!ordable of vans, but it’s a Mercedes and it’s a diesel, so it’s in it for the long haul.

Last year was a happening one for Sprinter: it became the only van in its class available with four-wheel drive; and it added a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine as an option to the


already-frugal 3.0-L V6.For 2016, a low range

becomes standard on all 4x4 models, underlining that the system is intended for serious rough stu!, not just enhanced stability on wintry pavement.

Mercedes has also added more airbags to the van’s already comprehensive

safety portfolio, and a lockable glove compartment is now standard.

Besides the engine and drivetrain choices, Sprinters also come in numerous combinations of 2500 or 3500 ratings, cargo van, passenger van or chassis/cab, three body lengths, and three roof heights.

2016 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2016 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER SPECS

BASE MSRP

$39,900 (Chassis/cab)

MAX TOW

NAMAX PAYLOAD/VOLUME

5,508 lbs./586 cu.ft.


*.'-�ENGINES AVAILABLE

(TRANS)

2.1-L L4 Diesel (7AT)

3.0-L V6 Diesel (5AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

NA(Combined)

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 43 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

The original 2005 Titan was Nissan’s first attempt to crack the big-pickup market, and we’ve waited more than a decade for a do-over. Even now, Nissan isn’t showing all its cards: the Titan XD you see here is a new “look at me!” flagship model that stakes claim to a unique position between traditional heavy-duty and



light-duty entries. Nissan isn’t saying much yet about the mainstream models to follow.

As for the XD, a key to its segment-straddling character is its Cummins 5.0-litre turbo-diesel V8, which delivers 310 horsepower and 555 lb.-ft. of torque. Together with “commercial strength” components, that enables

more than 12,000 lbs. towing capacity, says Nissan, with the fuel e!ciency, driveability, and a"ordability of a half-ton pickup. Still, with its 152-inch wheelbase and 20-foot overall length the Crew Cab XD is One Big Truck.

As for the rest of the lineup, we do know there will be (including the XD) three cab styles, two frame sizes, three powertrains, and five trim grades. The other engines will be V6 or V8 gasoline engines.

The lineup will also o"er a laundry list of trailer towing aids, including a Trailer Light Check system that allows

2016 NISSAN TITAN XD

one-person hook-up – you can check turn signals, brake lights, et cetera from inside the cab.

2016 NISSAN TITAN XD SPECS

BASE MSRP

TBAMAX TOW

12,000+ lbs.BOX SIZES

TBAENGINE

(TRANSMISSION)

5.0-L Turbo-diesel V8 (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

TBA L/100 km (Combined)

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 44 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

Nissan’s truck people have likely been busy with the new Titan, but surely they will soon turn their attention to re-inventing the midsize Frontier, now entering its 12th model year in its current form. Mind you, despite its age, the Frontier remains a ruggedly handsome ride, we think.

Like its midsize rivals, the Frontier has long abandoned the regular cab, leaving seven combos of King (extended) or Crew Cabs,


4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains and four trim grades. A brawny but thirsty 261-hp 4.0-L V6 is standard on all except the base 4x2 King Cab, which has a somewhat under-achieving 152-hp 2.5-L four. Transmission is a five-speed automatic on all except the o!-road-oriented PRO-4X King Cab, which has a six-speed manual to go with its Bilstein o!-road shocks, all-terrain tires, and electronic locking rear di!.

Revisions for 2016 are limited to new colours, and addition of a moonroof to the SV Crew Cab model.

2016 NISSAN FRONTIER2016

NISSAN FRONTIER SPECS

BASE MSRP

$22,748*MAX TOW

6,500 lbs.BOX SIZES

.')�//'*�ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

2.5-L L4 (5AT)

4.0-L V6 (6MT or 5AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

12.4–13.7 L/100 km (Combined) * 2015

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 45 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

These two tiddlers get a combined listing because they are basically the same vehicle. Nissan builds the van for itself, and also supplies a Chevy-badged version to GM Canada.

Little changed for 2016, the twins are best viewed as the econoboxes of commercial vans. They are a little smaller still than their Class 1 rivals from Ford and Ram, and there are no passenger-wagon versions. Motivation is supplied by a 131-hp 2.0-litre “four” driving the front wheels through a CVT automatic.

On the practical front there are two sliding rear side doors standard, and the rear cargo door is split 60/40 (with the 60 on the curb side). Windows are optional. The space between the wheel wells is exactly 4' and a standard 40" x 48" pallet will fit. A fold-flat front passenger seat can serve as a worktop or lunch table – or just make space for longer items such as piping or lumber – and the centre console features storage for a laptop or hanging folders.

Which to choose? Well, Chevrolet has a bigger dealer

Launched in 2011, the U.S.-built NV Cargo is a relative newcomer to the segment, but its appearance and its engineering imitate traditional American vans, with a long hood, body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive, and V6 or V8 gasoline engines.

The NV Cargo comes in three basic versions: the 261-hp 4.0-L V6-powered NV1500; the NV2500 HD, which is o!ered with the V6 or a 317-hp 5.6-L V8; and the NV3500 HD with the V8 standard.

The cargo area is accessed by a sliding door on the passenger side and 50/50-split swing-out back doors. It comes in only one wheelbase and body length but a High Roof body, available on the 2500 and 3500 models, o!ers up to 6'5" of interior height.

The only novelty for 2016 is the addition of side-impact and roof-curtain airbags. Also worth noting is the NV’s



2016 NISSAN NV SPECS

BASE MSRP

$32,298MAX TOW

9,500 lbs.MAX PAYLOAD/CARGO

VOLUME

4,022 lbs./323 cu.ft.


*)�ENGINES (TRANS)

4.0-L V6 (5AT)

5.6-L V8 (5AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

NA(Combined)

2016 Nissan NV200/

CHEVROLET CITY EXPRESS SPECS

BASE MSRP

Nissan: $23,648*Chevrolet:$25,995*

MAX TOW

NAMAX PAYLOAD/CARGO VOLUME

1,500 lbs./123 cu.ft.


/'2�ENGINE (TRANS)

2.0-L L4 (CVT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

9.4 L/100 km (Combined) *2015

2016 NISSAN NV200/2016 CHEVROLET CITY EXPRESS

2016 NISSAN NV

network, but Nissan has a better warranty – 5-yr/160,000 km versus the industry-norm 3/60.

segment-leading warranty – five years/160,000 km for both the basic warranty and powertrain.

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 46 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

It pays to list homes with an energy score.Receive a $100 Lowe’s gift card and an Energy Savings Kit with Enbridge’s Home Rating Program.*

Visit knowyourenergyscore.cafor more information.

* This offer is valid within the Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. franchise only. The residential property must currently use natural gas for heating and have a valid Enbridge Gas account. The incentive is available for up to the first 500 qualified listings provided to Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc., one per property, residential resale dwellings only (condominiums excluded). Offer expires December 31, 2015. No cash value. Offer is limited and subject to cancellation without notice.

ERA1785_HRP_RenovationContractor_FIN.indd 1 2015-07-22 10:27 AMRC_ADS FULL PAGE.indd 1 2015-09-23 5:24 PM

True compact pickups went extinct when Ford killed o! the Ranger, but there are new life-forms in the midsize category for those wanting something less-gigantic than today’s full-sizers. Hard on the heels of GM’s reincarnated Colorado/Canyon twins, Toyota has reshaped the Tacoma for the first time since 2004.

Beneath the more-aggressive skin, Toyota has strengthened the frame and refined the suspension, but the basic hardware is carryover, as are the dimensions for the



available Access (extended) Cab or Double Cab four-door configurations (with two box lengths available on the latter).

The key mechanical novelties are in the powertrains. While the base 159-hp, 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine carries over, the available automatic graduates from a four- to a six-speed. The alternative V6 is all-new – a high-tech 3.5-litre that promises more power, similar torque, and much better fuel economy than the former 4.0. The V6 also gets the new six-speed

autobox, while manual gearboxes remain available with either engine, though only on the 4x4 versions.

The 4x4 models have part-time 4WD with an electronically controlled transfer case. Suitably equipped (with the Class IV receiver hitch) max tow capacity is 6,800 lbs., a 300-lb. increase.

Even the base SR trim is well equipped with on-board IT, including a 6.1" touchscreen, Bluetooth streaming, and voice recognition.

2016 TOYOTA TACOMA 2016 TOYOTA TACOMA SPECS

BASE MSRP

TBAMAX TOW

6,800 lbs.BOX SIZES

.')�//'*�ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

2.7-L L4 (5MT or 6AT)

3.5-L V6 (6MT or 6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

TBA L/100 km (Combined)

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 47 2015-09-25 8:09 AM

Following a mid-life nip ’n tuck for 2014, Toyota’s Texas-built, Texas-sized truck enters 2016 with little news to report apart from an upgraded tow package that adds a trailer brake controller and larger (144-L !) fuel tank, and new grille designs for the SR5 and 1794 Edition models. As well, a manual headlamp levelling system is now standard.

Ten Tundra models variously combine regular, double, and crew cabs, 4.6-L or 5.7-L V8 gasoline (read: thirsty) engines, 4x2 or 4x4


2016 TOYOTA TUNDRA SPECS

BASE MSRP

$29,035MAX TOW


5.5’/6.5’/8.1’ENGINES

(TRANSMISSIONS)

4.6-L V8 (6AT)

5.7-L V8 (6AT)

FUEL CONSUMPTION

14.3–16.3 L/100 km (Combined) * 2015

drivetrains, and four trim grades. Regular and double cabs can carry three people up front on their 40/20/40-split front bench.

The base model – a workhorse regular-cab long-bed 4x2 powered by the 381-hp 5.7-L V8 – is actually the Tundra towing champ. Models with the smaller V8 have much lower tow ratings. At the other extreme, you can load up on luxury in the Crew-cab 4x4 Platinum with the 1794 Edition package. 1794? That was the founding

year of the Texas ranch on which the Tundra factory now stands. Okay then…

Jeremy Sinek is a two-time winner

and four-time runner up as Canadian

Automotive Journalist of the Year.

2016 TOYOTA TUNDRA

RC_101115_Trucks.indd 48 2015-09-25 10:12 AM

ProductShowcase New & Noteworthy


A NEW APPROACHThe typical approach to basement sump ejection has been one pump with a float switch. In a power failure, the options have been either a flood, or a secondary direct current pump attached to a car battery, which gives minimal short-term protection. The Ion approach to flood protection is altering the way homeowners, contractors, and insurers view basement flood risk. They have combined four innovations – a digital control switch with no moving parts, highly efficient PS motor pumps that use less power to pump more water, battery backups, and smart controllers that can alternate between two pumps.

DIRECT VENT GAS FIREPLACEPerfect for expansive spaces, this breathtaking linear fireplace offers a 70" viewing area. Exclusive features and a variety of surround options give the Aura fireplace its unsurpassed style, with the same attention to detail and proud craftsmanship that makes every Vermont Castings fireplace iconic.

A VERY PROLIFIC SINKThe Prolific kitchen sink from Kohler is your all-in-one stop for food prep and clean up. The sink includes five accessories; a bamboo cutting board, a colander, a bin, and two drying racks that fit perfectly into its tiered levels, freeing up counter space to make your kitchen functional and timeless.

ION TECHNOLOGY IonProducts.ca

HIGH STRENGTH STEELAfter being completely redone for 2015, the 2016 F-150 continues to be the only truck to use a high-strength steel frame combined with a military grade aluminum body allowing for increased capability and performance. The truck is available with the highest payload and towing capacities in its class, as well as Best-in-Class gas fuel efficiency. The F-150 features a host of available technologies to help you work more efficiently and effectively, including a 360° camera, LED box lighting, remote lock and release tailgate, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and the Box Link system for securing a wide variety of cargo.

FORD CANADA Ford.ca/trucks/f150

KOHLER Kohler.ca

THE PERECT SOLUTIONInstall a bathroom anywhere from a warehouse to a home basement. Saniflo’s Sanibest Pro is a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution ideal for residential or commercial applications. The grinder system can handle wastewater from a toilet, sink, bathtub/shower, or a wash-ing machine (indirectly) and is designed to handle the accidental flushing of sanitary items. It has a pumping distance of 25' vertically and 150' horizontally.

SANIFLO CANADASaniflo.ca

REDMOND HEARTH RedmondHearth.ca

RC_101115_ProductShowcase.indd 60 2015-09-25 10:13 AM

RC_FP_Roadsport Chrysler_final.indd 1 2015-09-29 6:17 PM

Illustratio

n: ????????????????

Working in a competitive market such as renova-tions, you already know it’s important to invest in a web presence, starting with your website – or what I like to call your “home base” – as you want to be discoverable in Google searches.

As with everything in the online world, there are constant changes and upgrades to algorithms and how to best be found online.

It’s time to get a tune-up on your search engine optimization (SEO), so your site is easily found by search engines and is attracting relevant, qualified leads.

I recently sat down with Marco Braggio and Lisa Cook of Braggio Cook Interactive to get an SEO update. Braggio and Cook have worked in the digital/SEO arena since the beginning, working with a long list of well-known national brands as well as local business owners.

SEO is basically a set of best practices to help improve the search ranking of a website. Recently, Google has

focused on user experience, and whether the site is meeting the expectations of the person seeking information.

The search engine essentially has two major functions – crawling all available information on the internet, which of course changes and updates constantly, and then building an index in order to be able to provide relevant answers to search queries.

So, just what are the search engines looking for? There are three key areas that are being crawled:

on-page (i.e. what is happening on the website itself), inbound strategies (how external sources perceive your the site) and, finally, the necessary technical requirements.

Here are Braggio and Cook’s list of top 10 things that you need to consider when looking at SEO:

Keywords: Without this crucial first step in under-standing how your target audience is trying to find your product/service online, everything else becomes a moot point. Conduct proper research to ensure you are using the best possible search words and phrases for your business and market area. Pro tip: Google is smart enough to understand syn-onyms and context. Don’t create pages for similar keywords.


”

BuildBUSINESSYOUR

Search engine optimization is basically

a set of best practices to help improve your

website’s search ranking.

Marketing V E R S ION 2.0

Entrepreneur, TV

personality, and educator

Melissa Schenk is the

owner of MS2 Productions,

a video, training, and

marketing agency.


The top 10 tips for search engine optimization

Seeking attention

RC_101115_BYOB.indd 60 2015-09-24 3:25 PM

THENEWSTICKER


Content Quality: Establish your authority online by ensuring that you have unique content that is relevant to the people you wish to attract to your site. Write about various topics and remember: quality over quantity. A 1,500-word article can have a bigger impact than three articles at 500 apiece. Pro tip: People love lists and matching features.

Meta Data: You may have heard this term over the years. Meta data, like “Title Tag” and “Meta Description,” used to carry more impor-tance than it does today in terms of helping your rank, but having it done correctly is still important. Ensure to include keywords where appropriate. Pro tip: Think about the message to improve your click-through-rate (CTR); the more clicks you get, the higher the ranking.

URLs: Like meta data, URLs have diminished in search engine signal value, but do create a better-organized site, give users a clear picture of what the site is about, and increase search engines results pages (SERPs) slightly. Pro tip: Matching the URL to the primary keyword in the content helps.

Internal Links: Linking from one page to another

A collection of stats and facts that could a!ect your business


bar was set when a home sold in the city for $11.1 million. The most expen-sive this year has been a home that went for $5.2 million. You really gotta time the market when building on spec…

Stick housing The trend towards wood-framed buildings continues to grow with the Gov-ernment of Quebec releasing a technical guide called, Bâtiments de construction massive en bois d’au plus 12 étages (“Construction of Mass Timber Buildings Up to 12 Storeys”).

knows that highrise units usually don’t come with parking spots. In the dense urban cores of Toronto and Vancouver, a spot in the garage is usually a five-figure add-on. But that’s nothing compared to Manhattan. There are currently at least two condo developments in the Big Apple with parking spaces listed at $1-million.

Meanwhile, in Calgary… In August, a home went on the market in Calgary for a jaw-dropping $12.25-million. Spread over nearly 10,000-sq.ft., the five bedroom, seven bath house also has a 1,200-sq.ft. patio and an enclosed walkway leading to the 1,000-sq.ft. carriage house. Below the carriage house is two-storey, seven-car parking garage. (Managing Editor’s Note: I’d live comfortably in that!)

But with oil prices tanking, it’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to set a new local real estate record. In 2013 the

Reno tax credit redux? As part of his bid to retain his day job, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that his government would reintroduce a home renovation tax credit if elected. (Wait, a politician trying to buy votes with our money?!?) The proposed 15 percent tax credit would be a new permanent program according to Harper, that would be rolled out in the 2016/2017 budget.

$1-million property, walls not includedAnyone who’s ever looked into buying a condo

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Seeking attention ii Continued from page 61

throughout the website helps users navigate the site, and it also helps search engines to determine the importance of pages by how they are connected together. Pro tip: Utilize keywords relevant to the destination page.

Inbound Signals: Seventy-five percent of SEO depends on o!-page optimization, so you want to build your website’s online authority through inbound marketing. Inbound marketing earns the attention of customers, makes the company easy to be found, and draws custom-ers to the website. Inbound signals come from other websites, and are the number one way for search engines to evaluate and rank your site. Search engines evaluate inbound signals, based on authority and popularity of the site, and

relevancy of the content. Pro tip: Connect with other authoritative sites and build your brand trust – get links.

Social Signals: If you are not active in social media, start today. When it comes to SEO, social media is a huge part of the strategy for any campaign. Search engine algorithms are already including social media signals to factor in rankings and, in 2015, those calculations are skyrocketing. Pro tip: It’s not about links but about engage-ment, authority, and trust within social spheres. Find the social media platform that makes sense for your business.

Get Mobile Friendly: As with social media, having a mobile optimization strategy is essential. More than 50 percent of users look for products and services with their mobile device first, especially at a local level. In April 2015, Google updated

their mobile-friendly algo-rithm, which also includes a “Mobile-Friendly” designation that could result in better real estate within SERPs. Pro tip: With so many people using smartphones and tablets for their online searches, it is imperative that you think about and build a responsive website for mobile first, then desktop.

Local SEO: Local SEO is one of the most essential compo-nents for any business that wants long-term success across search engines. Local SEO is focused on providing

results that are relevant to a searcher based on their current location. Someone searching for “licensed electri-cian” in Toronto will have vastly di!erent results from someone in Kitchener. Pro tip: Ensure that your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) citations maintain a consistent format wherever they are mentioned.

User-Generated Content (UGC): This is the hardest type of content to earn. UGC is anything – blogs, wikis, discussion forums, etc. – that is created by users. These are your brand ambassadors that can make the di!erence and separate you from your competitors. Foster these relationships as they are your biggest allies. Pro tip: Customer reviews are the simplest and easiest forms of engaged content.

Still have questions about how to be discovered online? Contact Braggio and Cook for more information at BraggioCook.com.


Lost and found: Techniques to avoid getting lost in the ether include linking to social media pages and having a “mobile friendly” design.

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Main Street

Main Street

Clearance Street

Oak Boulevard

Cherry Street

Oak Boulevard


BuildBUSINESS

YOUR

Social Media For Contractors Who Have No Time for Social Media

Do you tune out when you hear the term “social media?” Do you think, “I don’t have time for it?” or “It’s not right for my busi-ness?” Perhaps it’s time to re-evaluate. Nowadays, social media isn’t the frivolous waste of time it once was; it’s an expected medium for all businesses. The good news: if used correctly it can act as a digital catalogue of your work, a sales tool, and a PR megaphone all at once. Your limited time and busy schedule shouldn’t stand in the way of developing a social presence. Here are some time-saving hacks to stay on top of your social media.

Get Your Priorities StraightPrioritize those social media sites that will get you the most return, and stick to those.

For contractors looking to acquire local clients, Facebook and Twitter work well because of their reach. They make it easy to search your target audience and share information, and also help promote community events.

For contractors who want to share photos of their work, Pinterest and Instagram are great ways to capture attention. Before-

and-after pictures to showcase work are always well received.

B2B contractors should consider LinkedIn, which demands less time and targets professionals, larger corpora-tions, and associations. It’s also a great research tool when you’re looking to find information on a company before pitching your service months ahead, but it’s still a good idea to check in at least once a week.

Instead of spending your time updating all of these portals, choose two or three channels that best fit your marketing needs.

Share The SpotlightDon’t think that you have time to write or find all the content you want to share? Follow users who align with your philosophies so you can re-post their content. Curated content is often as good as original, as long as you provide proper attribution. A great organization to follow on Twitter is the Canadian Construction Association (@constructionCAN) for the latest in industry news and advice.

Make a habit of responding to anyone who’s contacted you, and “like” and share posts by the people you follow.

If you share an existing post from fellow industry leaders, hopefully they’ll return the favour by liking/following your company.

Quality Over QuantityPosting a few quality posts a week is better than flooding your followers’ feeds with irrelevant updates. With the tools men-tioned below, you can schedule all your posts for the week or months ahead.

At the beginning or end of the work week, set aside fifteen minutes to review which posts delivered the best results. The two key metrics here are reach (how many people viewed your post) and engagement (how many people acted on your post, either by responding, retweeting, liking, or quoting).

Management ToolsThese three sites are useful tools that can help you manage multiple social media feeds.

Hootsuite is probably the premier social media manage-ment platform, and created here in Canada. It allows you to schedule posts and status updates across all of the social networks you’re likely to use, and

monitor all your interactions with prospects and customers in one place. Hootsuite has a free version that will suffice for most; the Pro version is $9.99 USD.

SproutSocial is a strong alternative to Hootsuite and offers many of the same features. Where Sprout improves upon Hootsuite is in managing multiple users and high activity volume. If your plan is to have several employees par-ticipating in your social media management, it might be a good option. However, there is no free version (other than a 30-day trial) and pricing starts at $59 (USD) per month.

Buffer is another alternative that staggers your posts throughout the day and across all your networks, so that your feeds have consistent updates. Like Hootsuite and Sprout, it offers analytics to understand the reach and impact of your messages. After a 30-day free trial it costs $10 (USD) per month.

Social media doesn’t have to be a time-sucking parasite that demands all of your attention. Leveraging these online tools will help you stay afloat with social media without sacrificing your day. RC

ONLINE MARKETING BY CARRIE SHAW

It’s Time to Socialize


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❱❱ PROBLEM, SOLVED! ❰❰

A simple solution to a holey mess

Write OnGot a tip you’d like to share? Jot it down, send it our way, and you could win a DeWalt Tough Chest and a Multi-Level Workshop storage unit, worth a combined $260. Enter at RenoContractor.ca. Not online? Snail mail us at: Problem, Solved!, c/o Renovation Contractor, 5500 North Service Rd., Ste. 905, Burlington, ON L7L 6W6.


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John Estey, of Jameswood Homes in Calgary, shares this cheap and easy fix for installing new hardware on old doors.

Often when we are working in an older home, the clients

is a handy quick fix. Use your utility knife to cut some small wedges off the ends, add some glue, and then shove it all in the existing hole. After the glue sets up up, voila, you can drill a fresh hole. RC

like to keep the old doors but change the hardware. But reusing the existing holes in the door usually does not work as well as working with a freshly drilled hole. I found that sacrificing a carpenter’s pencil

Sharpen Your Pencils

RC_101115_ProblemSolved.indd 66 2015-09-24 3:21 PM

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