CJ Brubacher, Author at CJ Brubacher

How Renovating Your Home Can Add Value in Kitchener

Are you looking to add value to your home and make it a more enjoyable, livable space? Renovations can often be an overwhelming, daunting task. But there’s no need to worry if you don’t know where to start. CJ Brubacher is here with plenty of expert advice and services specifically tailored for homeowners that want to update their living space without breaking the bank. Keep reading for great tips about how renovating your home can increase its value!

Upgrading the Bathroom

The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in any home, and with the right renovations, it can also be one of the most valuable. From simple updates to full-scale remodels, there are a variety of improvements that can be made to increase your home’s value and enhance your everyday living experience.

Some popular bathroom renovations include replacing outdated fixtures with stylish new options, installing energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, upgrading lighting and ventilation systems, and redoing floors and walls with high-quality tile or natural stone. With the help of a skilled contractor, your bathroom renovation project can be a great investment in your home’s value and overall comfort.

Improve the Backyard

There are numerous fantastic backyard residential renovations that can offer you a significant return on investment. One popular upgrade is adding a deck, as it creates an outdoor entertaining space that’s perfect for summer barbeques or family gatherings.

Do you love eating breakfast on your deck or barbecuing on the weekends? If so, an outdoor kitchen may be the perfect addition to your backyard. These spaces have everything you need for a great meal:

Grill
Sink
Mini-fridge

Pair a patio with that outdoor kitchen and you have a match made in heaven, as cooks can tend to the food while chatting with friends.

Additionally, building a fire pit can provide warmth and a cozy ambiance on chilly nights. Also, landscaping is an excellent option for adding curb appeal and increasing the value of your property. Whatever your preference, there are numerous small adjustments you can make that will pay off big in the long run.

Updating the Kitchen

A kitchen renovation can completely transform the look and feel of a home. Not only can it improve functionality and increase storage space, but it can also greatly enhance your property’s value. After all, the kitchen is often considered the heart of the home.

To make the most of your investment, consider making updates that are in line with current trends in design and functionality. This could mean opting for modern appliances, installing new countertops made from high-quality materials, or adding an island to increase workspace and create a more functional gathering place for family and friends.

Storage is always a concern in the kitchen, replacing or adding more cabinetry is a great way to optimize available space. By investing in kitchen renovations that align with your home’s style and anticipated return on investment, you’re sure to see a positive impact on your home’s overall value and livability.

Finish the Basement

Finally, finishing your basement expands the available living space, which boosts property value as a rule. The most important step is deciding what you want that space to be:

An in-law suite for guests to stay in
A private apartment to rent out
A game room for the kids
An entertainment area for hangouts
A home theatre for the family

An experienced professional renovation company like CJ Brubacher can help transform your basement into a functional and attractive living space, increasing your home’s value and giving you more room to enjoy with your family.

A professional renovation company can guide you through every step of the process, from design and layout to choosing materials and finishing touches. With their expertise and attention to detail, you can rest assured that your residential renovations will exceed your expectations and add value to your home for years to come.

When you are in need of home renovations, CJ Brubacher is the place to call. Our experts can help you remodel any room and always provide top-tier service. Contact us today for more information.

4 Reasons to Call an Electrician in Waterloo During Summer

Your electrical system is one of the most important elements of your home because it supplies you with power. Keeping your home running smoothly throughout the year requires you to maintain your electrical system, but it’s never a good idea to tackle electrical problems yourself because of the potential hazards involved. Whether you need residential or commercial electrical services, CJ Brubacher is here to help. Here are four reasons you may need to call an electrician this summer.

1. The Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

Your air conditioner running excessively is the most common cause of tripping your circuit breaker. It’s often inconvenient, but the circuit breaker trips when it is overloaded to prevent an electrical fire, so it is actually a safety feature. Circuit breakers often trip during warm months when the air conditioner runs most frequently, so you may need to call an electrician to rewire your circuits if they keep being overloaded by excessive use of your air conditioner.

2. Your Pool Needs To Be Inspected

You spend a lot of time by the pool during the summer, and most pools use up a significant amount of electricity through lighting during the nighttime hours and operating the pump during the day. If you own a pool, you understand the importance of having an electrician on call when you see a problem with your pump or pool lights.

If you avoid calling a professional for help and try to resolve the issue yourself, you could end up with a more extensive problem that costs significantly more to repair. Working with an electrician to maintain your pool is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

3. Outdoor Lighting Isn’t Working

During the warm summer months, you spend a lot of time outside entertaining guests on the back patio. You rely on outdoor lights to help you see various activities after the sun goes down, and when your lights aren’t working properly, you need to call a licensed technician to resolve the problem.

Sometimes, the issue is with the light fixture and can be resolved by buying a new one. However, the problem is most often caused by issues with the wiring, and this is never a problem you should try to resolve on your own because there is an enhanced risk to your safety if you touch the wrong wire.

4. Lights Are Flickering

The lights in your home flicker for many reasons. Sometimes the solution is as simple as changing the lightbulb, but often, resolving the problem requires more extensive intervention. An electrician can provide residential electrical services and check the connections between lightbulbs and fixtures to ensure they are secure.

If the issue persists and most often occurs right after the air conditioner comes on, the problem may be caused by an overloaded circuit. Electricians can rewire circuits to distribute the spread of power more evenly throughout your home.

Call CJ Brubacher for Help With Electrical Problems

Some electrical issues have easy fixes and pose a minimal risk if you tried to result in yourself, but in general, it is dangerous to work with an electrical system if you do not have the proper training. A licensed electrician is better equipped to diagnose various issues and resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. If you expect there is a problem with any of your wires it’s best to leave the issue for a licensed electrician to solve. Call the experts at CJ Brubacher today for help with electrical services in Waterloo.

Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations: Maximizing Space and Improving Functionality

Most people want their homes to have as much space and be as well suited to their needs as possible. It is often worth it for homeowners to make a call to home renovation services in Waterloo to discuss some ways to enhance their living spaces. Here are some things that homeowners, as well as professionals, can do to maximize space and improve the functionality of kitchens and bathrooms.

Upgrade the Lights

Light upgrades can boost the functionality of a house by allowing its residents to see better and providing them with more options when it comes to lighting a room in a way that enhances its ambiance. Compared to some other types of upgrades, installing new lights is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to make improvements to the home.

In the kitchen, adding more lights to areas of the room where people prepare food and eat can add to the overall experience. More importantly, proper lighting in food preparation areas provides additional safety when chopping food with knives and engaging in other kitchen activities.

In the bathroom, installing lights around the mirror and sink make it easier for residents to go about their skincare routines and apply makeup. In addition, even though better lighting does nothing to increase space in and of itself, lights can help make a room appear larger than it really is.

There are many lighting options for homeowners to choose from, and making a selection can easily turn into a fun weekend project. As always, contact an electrician near me if they need assistance installing lights, or if they have any questions about whether or not their home’s electrical system can withstand more lights.

Consider Additional Storage

More storage increases a home’s functionality because having more storage means that it is easier to remove clutter from various rooms and put it someplace where it cannot be seen by guests and other residents. More storage also helps homeowners make the most of the space that they have because it provides a place to store items off the floor and countertops.

Many homeowners opt to have someone install additional cabinets in their kitchens as a way to have more storage space. This way, they can put dishes and small appliances like coffee makers in the cabinets and have more room on the countertops for food preparation.

Plumbing services can install a new sink in the bathroom to increase storage. If someone owns a home that does not have a cabinet under the sink, installing one where they can store unneeded items helps to make the bathroom more tidy and functional.

Add Railings

Adding railings around the home makes the property safer for guests and residents, especially those who have trouble walking. Bathtubs, for instance, can get quite slippery, making it difficult for some people to get in and out of the shower. This is a great place to install some grab bars and reduce the chances that someone falls in the shower.

Make Use of the Walls

The walls are a great space to hang lighter items such as towels. Not only are towels more reachable hanging on a hook than in a cabinet, but hanging towels on the wall helps to free up valuable cabinet and counter space in the bathroom. In the kitchen, consider having someone install some sturdy hooks for hanging pots, pans and cooking utensils. Again, this will free up counter space, helping residents make the best use of their existing space.

If a homeowner wants to maximize the space and improve the functionality of their home, they should give the professional home renovation experts at CJ Brubacher a call to discuss their options.

CJ Brubacher: 25 Years Later

From technological advancements to shifts in consumer behaviour, the landscape of our HVAC, plumbing and electrical industry has been transformed in ways that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. Despite these changes, our company has remained steadfast in our commitment to providing quality products and exceptional service. As we look back on the last 25 years, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made and excited for what the future holds. Join us as we celebrate our journey and the many milestones that have brought us to where we are today.

As we celebrate our 100-year anniversary, it’s hard to believe how fast time has flown by. It seems like we were gathered together just yesterday to commemorate our 75th anniversary. A local paper, who published an article about our journey, acknowledged our significant milestone. They told the story of CJ Brubacher and how heating and plumbing had changed over the past 75 years. Looking back at that time, we realize how much the industry and our business had changed.

Keeping Traditions Alive

Now that we have reached our 100-year milestone, we are embracing changes in heating and plumbing as we move into the future, but also keeping some traditions alive. One aspect of business at CJ Brubacher that will never change is our dedication to customer service.

At CJ Brubacher, our business thrives on providing exceptional customer service. While many aspects of the industry constantly undergo innovation and change, our commitment to putting our customers first will never waver.

We understand that our clients are the backbone of our success and that trust and transparency are critical to fostering strong relationships. From the initial consultation to the finishing touches on a project, we prioritize clear communication and timely responses to ensure our customers are satisfied every step of the way. At CJ Brubacher, our unwavering dedication to our clients is what sets us apart.

The Location

Our original location on Arthur Street in Elmira, Ontario, is a historic landmark that dates back to 1923. The building served as our company’s home for over three decades, but it faced some challenges in 1951 when it needed to be demolished. Despite this, our resilient company didn’t let this discourage us. We temporarily moved down the street while they reconstructed a new building, which we then moved back to in 1953. The restoration process was long and tedious, but the CJ Brubacher business team couldn’t have been happier to have its own building once again.

In 1968, CJ Brubacher bought a building from B&L Metal on First St. E, which we moved into in 1970. In 1998 when we were celebrating our 75th anniversary, we were in the midst of expanding this location with a 2,000 sq. ft addition onto the back of the building, which was to house the rental store and general offices. During this time, the front of the storefront was being remodeled to become the new home of Frey’s Flowers. The exterior of the building was also being covered in coloured steel, which still stands in place today!

This location is where our family company still calls home today, but its roots will always be tied back to its original, beloved building on Arthur Street.

Industry Changes Over The Years

When celebrating our 75th anniversary, we took the time to look back at the way our industry has changed throughout the decades. Major strides in plumbing were made since the 20s, including moving from cast iron and steel pipe to copper and through to plastic.

Over the past 25 years, numerous improvements have been driven by new technologies that have been developed to enable more efficient and effective plumbing systems. For example, new materials such as PVC and PEX have become popular for use in pipes, reducing instances of leaks and the need for repairs.

Additionally, there have been major improvements in water conservation through the use of low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as new regulations requiring more efficient water heaters. These innovations have not only improved plumbing systems’ functionality but also had significant implications for the environment and consumers’ energy bills.

In heating, consumers moved from gravity furnaces to forced air and electric heat. In the early 60s, gas came on the scene and was soon used by everyone who could access it. To this day, it still remains the most widely used fuel for home heating.

The heating and cooling industry may not have seen any major breakthroughs in recent years, but the progress made in improving energy efficiency is noteworthy. With advancements in technology, consumers now have a range of options to choose from when it comes to heating and cooling their homes.

From geothermal systems that utilize the earth’s natural energy to hybrid heating systems that combine multiple energy sources, the industry has come a long way in pursuing environmental friendliness and energy conservation. Looking back at the history of HVAC, we can see that these improvements have been a long time coming. Today, consumers can take advantage of these advancements and make choices that benefit both wallets and the planet.

The past 25 years have also brought monumental changes to the world of electrical services. From the introduction of smart home technology to the shift towards renewable energy sources, there’s no denying that the industry has come a long way. These improvements have paved the way for a safer, more efficient, and more environmentally-friendly approach to electricity. With the rise of smart meters and advanced monitoring systems, customers now have more control over their energy usage than ever before. In addition, new building codes and safety regulations have standardized the installation and maintenance of electrical systems, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the overall quality of service.

Our Employees

Since our last major milestone of 75 years, just as the industry has changed, so have some of our employees. James and Peter Brubacher were at the head of the company for our last celebration, but now, 25 years later, Kyle (the original owner, Clare’s great-grandson) is at the helm. James and Peter’s legacy lives on through Kyle as he carries on the traditions and values of the business as he acquired full ownership in 2019.

The legacy of CJ Brubacher has been passed down from generation to generation, and Zack Brubacher is the most recent family member to carry on the tradition. His apprenticeship at CJ Brubacher began in 2020, as he started learning from his ancestors and actively preserving and strengthening the business.

With his great-great-grandfather Clare as the company’s founder, Zack is proud to continue his family’s legacy and contribute his skills to the success of CJ Brubacher. He will undoubtedly face new challenges and opportunities as he continues his journey. Still, the invaluable knowledge he gains from his apprenticeship will help him overcome them and continue building upon the company’s rich history.

Some of our other newest employees include other family members such as Julie Adams (great-granddaughter of Clare), who started working in the office in 2008, and in 2022, another of Clare’s great-granddaughters, Karyn Fox, joined the company’s office team.

We are a family business through and through; even those who are not our blood relations are still considered and treated like family.

Some Things Remain The Same

Over the last 25 years, our company has weathered some major changes in the industry. However, many aspects of our business have remained constant despite these shifts. From maintaining strong relationships with our clients to staying true to our values, our company has stayed grounded despite new developments and technologies.

We are proud to have withstood the test of time and continue to provide reliable and high-quality services to our valued customers. While the industry may continue to evolve, we remain committed to our core principles and are confident that we will continue to thrive in the years to come.

We couldn’t be more proud of our accomplishments, not just since our 75th anniversary but over the past 100 years. Join us as we celebrate our 100-year anniversary at our milestone event on Saturday, June 10th, from 11am -2pm at Bolender Park in Elmira. We’d love for you and your family to join in all the fun!

Eco-Friendly Electrical Upgrades to Save Energy and Money

Everyone is trying to save money on utilities. It makes sense financially and environmentally. While there may be an initial investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh any installation costs. Here are a few of our favourite electrical upgrades that will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. CJ Brucacher offers professional residential electrical services to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.

LED Lighting

LED lighting uses up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent lights. This improved performance saves money by using less energy and lasting longer, so you don’t buy as many lightbulbs. LED lights do not generate heat, putting all of the electricity towards lighting your home. Artwork and interior decorations won’t degrade when exposed to LED lights. LED lights also withstand being turned on and off better than traditional lights. These lights come in a variety of styles, sizes and finishes. You can install LED lights in places where traditional lights won’t fit.

Bathroom Fan Timers

After a bath or shower, the bathroom fan should run for about 20 minutes to reduce condensation and prevent mould and mildew. If you’ve ever gotten out of the shower and gone directly to bed, you might have either left the bathroom fan on all night or turned it off too quickly. Instead of wasting energy or accepting the risk of mould, install a timer on the bathroom fan. There are two types, manual and digital. A manual timer works like an oven timer that winds down and shuts off when the mechanism reaches the end. Digital timers can be set in 5- or 10-minute intervals. Manual timers are certainly less expensive, but smart digital timers can be controlled by your phone or other device. Depending on the level of installation, you may be able to simply plug the timer into your current system or you may want a professional electrician.

Dimmer Switches

If you enjoy mood lighting, you may already have dimmer switches in your home. Dimmer switches let you change the intensity of light from one bulb or even multiple. Modern dimmer switches go well beyond mood lighting though. These switches are energy efficient. Reducing the light in one bulb can save up to 98%. You can also create an ambience that suits your mood. Incorporating dimmer switches into your system can increase the longevity of your lights, both regular and LED.

Why You Should Use Professional Electrical Services

Many homeowners try to save money by DIYing some projects. Residential and commercial electrical services require a level of skill that many homeowners don’t have. Electricians have licenses, insurance and certifications that prove they understand how to get the job done safely and effectively. Here are three other reasons you should always contact a professional electrician when you need home repairs or upgrades:

Electricians have the tools and equipment to install electrical components. This, combined with their knowledge and experience makes sure that anything you change to your electrical system is done right and won’t cause problems down the road.
Electricians make sure your home is up to code. Electrical components are required to comply with electrical codes in your community. A professional electrician knows the codes and meets requirements, keeping your home safe.
Professional electricians give you peace of mind. When electrical components aren’t wired correctly, there’s a bigger risk of fire and other dangers to your home. When you hire a professional, you won’t have to worry about the risks of not having the work done right. It just makes sense to have a professional do the work for your security and comfort. Contact CJ Brubacher for electrical services in Waterloo.

Benefits of Upgrading to a New Air Conditioning System

Purchasing a new air conditioning system can be expensive, and its installation may require a disruption of your routine for a day or two. However, there are many good reasons to upgrade your system, not the least of which is to help ensure that the system does not break on a hot day in the summer. If your air conditioning unit is getting older, here are some reasons why you should contact air conditioning services in Waterloo to upgrade your air conditioning system.

To Improve Efficiency and Create More Comfort

Older air conditioning units have to work harder to produce the same results as newer units. This can lead to higher electricity costs, especially during heat waves and other times of the year when it fails to cool down outside at night. While the initial cost of installing a new residential air conditioning unit may be a concern for some, consider the savings that you will gain in the long run by having a more efficient system.

Comfort levels are another consideration to make when thinking about upgrading your HVAC system. For example, say you run a business and are wondering whether or not it is worth it to upgrade your commercial air conditioning unit. Consider that your customers who frequently come inside your building will stay longer and purchase more items if they are comfortable. Just like you would not want your customers to be cold inside during the winter, you do not want them to be uncomfortably hot as the warmer months approach.

To Improve Air Quality

If you are a homeowner, you may already be aware of the importance of changing out your unit’s air filter frequently. However, dust and debris can still accumulate in the unit over time, leading to it putting out less healthy air for the home’s residents to breathe.

Small children, as well as people who are prone to asthma attacks or who have other health conditions, are especially susceptible to falling ill when breathing unhealthy air indoors. The new filter system that comes with a new air conditioning system will ensure that the air flowing through your house is as clean and healthy as possible.

To Be More Environmentally Friendly

There is increasing interest among the public regarding ways to be more environmentally conscious. Hiring someone to install a new air conditioning system is a great way to do your part to help keep the earth clean. This is because new units require less fuel to run, even when getting your home to the same temperature levels. When a unit uses less fuel, it outputs fewer harmful carbon emissions into the air. Not only is lower fuel consumption better for your pocketbook, but it is also better for the environment as well.

To Have Greater Control

With older air conditioning systems, someone has to be present in the home in order to switch the unit on or off. However, newer systems allow residents to adjust the temperature from afar. This is beneficial in many scenarios. For example, you can ensure that the house is cooled down when residents get home from work or school. You can also turn the unit off if you are away from home for a long period of time and forgot to switch it off prior to leaving.

In addition, you can program smart thermostats to automatically adjust their temperature settings according to your schedule. A newer HVAC system leads to you having greater control over your home’s environment.

Upgrading your air conditioning system is a big project, and you want to have someone who knows what they are doing come to install it. If your system is on its way out, contact CJ Brubacher to handle your HVAC needs.

What are Heat Pumps and Why are They More Efficient?

Heat pumps are devices that can both heat and cool your home, making them a great option for year-round comfort. When considering your options for heating installation near me, consider heat pumps as an alternative to traditional electric or gas heating systems. Save money year-round and reduce maintenance costs over the life of your home.

What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a device that uses suction and physics to transfer inert heat from ambient sources to other locations where it is more needed. It may collect heat from the outside air, geothermal pools, or waste heat from businesses. It can be used to heat or cool a home, depending on the season. Heat pumps are more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems because they use less energy to move heat.

A heat pump works by using a refrigerant, a gas that can easily change forms into a liquid depending on its chemical inputs. The refrigerant is pumped through a system of coils, where it absorbs heat from the air inside your home. The heat is then transferred to the outside air, where it is released.

Why Is a Heat Pump More Efficient Overall?

A heat pump is more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems because it uses less energy to move the heat. Traditional heating systems, such as furnaces, use natural gas and other fuels to heat the air inside your home. Traditional cooling systems, such as air conditioners, use electricity to cool the air inside your home. Heat pumps, on the other hand, use electricity to move heat, which is more efficient.

How Is a Heat Pump More Efficient in the Winter?

In the winter, a heat pump can be used to heat your home by absorbing heat from the outside air. Even when the outside air is cold, there is still some heat energy available. The heat pump can absorb this heat energy and transfer it to the inside of your home, where it can be used to heat the indoor air.

How Is a Heat Pump More Efficient in the Summer?

In the summer, a heat pump can be used to cool your home by absorbing heat from the inside air. The heat pump then transfers this heat to the outside air, where it is released. This is more efficient than using an air conditioner, which uses electricity to cool the air inside your home.

What Is the Canada Greener Home Grant?

The Canada Greener Home Grant is a program that provides funding to homeowners who make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. Heat pumps are eligible for funding through this program. The amount of funding you receive will depend on the type of heat pump you install and the size of your home.

Why Should You Contact CJ Brubacher for Your Heat Pump Installation?

CJ Brubacher is a local company that specializes in heat pump installation. We have a team of experienced and qualified technicians who can install your heat pump quickly and efficiently. We also offer a variety of financing options to make it easier for you to afford your heat pump.

When Should You Call CJ Brubacher for Repair or Replacement Services?

If you have a heat pump that is not working properly, you should call CJ Brubacher for repair or replacement services. We have a team of experienced and qualified technicians who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace your heat pump quickly and efficiently.

Contact Us Today for Reliable Heating Installation Near Me

Heat pumps are a great way to save energy and money on your home heating and cooling costs. They are also more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems, and they are eligible for funding through the Canada Greener Home Grant. If you are thinking about installing a heat pump, you should contact CJ Brubacher for more information.

Author: CJ Brubacher