Construction & Renovation Services in Ajax & Pickering
Professional renovation services for Ajax and Pickering homes, from wartime bungalows to modern suburban builds.
Neighbourhoods We Serve in Ajax & Pickering
Ajax & Pickering Housing Stock & History
Ajax and Pickering offer a diverse housing stock spanning eight decades. Original 1940s-50s Ajax wartime bungalows are compact (800-1,100 sq ft) with simple layouts, while 1970s-80s homes are typically side splits and back splits on larger lots. The 1990s-2000s subdivisions in areas like Brock Ridge and North Ajax feature two-storey detached homes with double garages and builder-grade finishes now ready for updating.
Development History
Ajax has one of the most unusual origin stories of any Canadian municipality. The town was literally built in 1941 as a wartime munitions community, named after HMS Ajax of the Battle of the River Plate. Defence Industries Limited constructed a massive shell-filling plant and surrounding worker housing almost overnight. The original wartime homes were small, utilitarian bungalows designed for function rather than aesthetics, and many of these structures still stand today, though most have been significantly renovated or expanded over the decades. Pickering's history runs much deeper, with Pickering Village dating to the early 1800s as a rural agricultural community along the Kingston Road. The village retains some of its historic character with 19th-century buildings along its main streets. However, the majority of both Ajax and Pickering as they exist today were built during the massive suburban expansion of the 1970s through 2000s, transforming farmland into residential subdivisions connected by the GO Transit commuter rail line. The communities continue to evolve with new development in north Pickering and ongoing intensification along the Highway 2 corridor. The opening of Durham Live entertainment complex and continued GO service improvements have reinforced these communities as accessible eastern GTA suburbs with strong renovation demand as the 1980s and 1990s housing stock reaches its major update cycle.
Construction & Renovation Guide: Ajax & Pickering
Ajax and Pickering present distinct renovation opportunities depending on the home's era. The original 1940s-50s Ajax wartime bungalows are often candidates for comprehensive renovation or second-storey additions, as the original homes are very small by modern standards. Many owners choose to expand these homes rather than demolish, preserving the community's unique heritage while gaining needed space. The large stock of 1980s-90s homes across both municipalities represents the bulk of renovation demand. These homes typically need kitchen and bathroom modernization, basement finishing, and sometimes structural updates to open up closed floor plans. Builder-grade materials from this era are reaching end of life, making full kitchen and bathroom renovations common projects. Pickering Village and older sections of Ajax may have homes with unique character that warrant careful renovation planning. Proximity to the Rouge National Urban Park in west Pickering can affect development options on some properties, so checking with the City of Pickering planning department is advisable for properties near park boundaries.
Common Renovation Projects
- Kitchen renovations replacing dated 1980s-90s builder finishes
- Bathroom modernization and ensuite additions
- Basement finishing for additional living space or rental income
- Second-storey additions on original Ajax wartime bungalows
- Open concept conversions removing walls between kitchen and living areas
- Secondary suite conversions to meet Durham Region rental demand
- Window and door replacement on 1970s-80s homes
- Garage conversions and additions
Typical Renovation Costs in Ajax & Pickering
Estimates based on typical project scope. Actual costs vary by project specifics, material choices, and site conditions.
Unique Construction Challenges
- Original Ajax wartime homes (1940s-50s) are very compact and may have concrete block foundations with lower ceiling heights requiring creative design solutions
- Clay till soil conditions across both municipalities can cause foundation settlement and drainage issues, requiring proper grading and weeping tile assessment before basement projects
- Homes near Duffins Creek and Rouge River flood plains may have restrictions on additions or grade-level changes
- 1980s-era homes frequently have polybutylene (Poly-B) plumbing that should be assessed and potentially replaced during renovations
- Properties near Rouge National Urban Park in Pickering may face additional development restrictions
Foundation Types in Ajax & Pickering
Most homes built from the 1970s onward have standard poured concrete foundations with 7-8 foot basement ceilings. The original 1940s-50s Ajax wartime housing typically features concrete block foundations with lower ceiling heights of 6.5-7 feet, which can limit finishing options without underpinning. Newer construction in north Pickering and recent Ajax developments often includes 9-foot basement ceilings.
Common Foundation Issues
- Concrete block deterioration in oldest Ajax homes
- Low basement ceiling heights in wartime-era construction
- Efflorescence and minor cracking in 1970s-80s poured foundations
- Water infiltration through aging waterproofing membranes
- Window well drainage problems in clay soil areas
- Foundation settlement in areas with expansive clay
Environmental Considerations in Ajax & Pickering
Asbestos
MEDIUM RISKProbability in area homes: 40-70% in pre-1985 homes
Homes built before 1985 in Ajax and Pickering may contain asbestos-containing materials. The original 1940s-50s Ajax wartime bungalows have the highest probability, with asbestos potentially present in insulation, floor tiles, and pipe wrap. All renovation work in pre-1985 homes must comply with Ontario Regulation 278/05 under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which governs asbestos handling, removal, and disposal. Professional testing is required before disturbing any suspect materials.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
- Vinyl floor tiles and mastic
- Pipe and duct insulation
- Vermiculite attic insulation
- Drywall joint compound
- Textured ceiling coatings
- Exterior cement board siding
Radon
LOW RISKDurham Region has a relatively low radon risk, with approximately 4.2% of tested homes exceeding Health Canada's guideline of 200 Bq/m3. This is lower than the rates found in Toronto, Peel Region, and many other parts of southern Ontario. However, radon levels vary significantly from home to home regardless of regional statistics, and Health Canada recommends every home be tested individually. Long-term test kits are inexpensive and should be deployed before or during any basement renovation project.
Soil & Drainage
Ajax and Pickering sit predominantly on glacial clay till deposited during the last ice age. This heavy clay soil has poor natural drainage and is subject to seasonal expansion and contraction, which can stress foundations over time. Areas near the Duffins Creek watershed in Ajax and the Rouge River system in west Pickering may have higher water tables and more variable soil conditions including alluvial deposits.
Drainage considerations: Sump pumps are essential in most homes. Proper lot grading, downspout extensions, and functioning weeping tile systems are critical for managing water around foundations in clay soil. Before finishing any basement, a thorough moisture assessment should be completed. Homes near creek systems should have backwater valves to prevent sewer backup during heavy rainfall events.
All environmental assessments should be conducted by qualified professionals before renovation work begins. We coordinate testing and abatement as part of our renovation process.
Property Values & Renovation ROI in Ajax & Pickering
Ajax and Pickering offer solid mid-range GTA property values with good renovation ROI. The average detached home price of approximately $900,000-$1,100,000 means well-executed renovations can add meaningful equity. Basement suite conversions are particularly attractive given strong rental demand from GO Transit commuters and Durham College and Ontario Tech University students. Kitchen and bathroom renovations in this price range typically recover 70-85% of costs at resale while significantly improving livability.
Market outlook: Stable demand with steady appreciation. Durham Region continues to attract buyers priced out of central Toronto, sustaining renovation investment returns.
Building Permits & Regulations in Ajax & Pickering
Building permits in Ajax are issued by the Town of Ajax Building Services division, while Pickering permits are handled by the City of Pickering Building Services. Both municipalities enforce the Ontario Building Code (OBC), with the 2024 OBC effective since January 2025 applying to all new permit applications. Electrical permits and inspections are handled separately by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and any gas or fuel-related work requires TSSA-licensed technicians. Permit fees and processing times vary between the two municipalities, so confirm requirements with the appropriate authority.
Common Permits Required
- Building permit for structural changes, additions, and basement finishing
- ESA electrical permit for panel upgrades, new circuits, and rewiring
- Plumbing permit for fixture additions, drain modifications, and water service changes
- TSSA compliance for furnace replacement, gas line work, and fireplace installation
- Demolition permit if removing existing structures
- Zoning compliance review for secondary suites and additions
Heritage Considerations
Neither Ajax nor Pickering has formal heritage conservation districts, though individual properties may be listed on the municipal heritage register. Pickering Village has some historically significant buildings that may receive additional scrutiny for exterior alterations. Check with the respective municipal heritage committee if your property is listed.
Zoning Notes
Both Ajax and Pickering have updated zoning bylaws to permit secondary suites in most residential zones, in line with provincial housing policy. Setback, lot coverage, and height restrictions vary by zone. Properties near Rouge National Urban Park in Pickering may have additional development restrictions under the Rouge National Urban Park Management Plan.
Applicable Codes & Standards
- Ontario Building Code (OBC) — Provincial building standards applicable to all renovation work
- ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) — All electrical work requires ESA permits and inspection
- TSSA — Gas and fuel-related work requires TSSA-licensed technicians
Key Renovation Considerations for Ajax & Pickering
Ajax wartime bungalows (1940s-50s) are excellent candidates for second-storey additions, but the original concrete block foundations must be assessed by a structural engineer to confirm they can support the additional load. Underpinning may be required.
Clay soil conditions across both communities make proper drainage critical. Before finishing any basement, test for moisture infiltration over multiple seasons and address any waterproofing deficiencies first.
Many 1980s-90s homes in Ajax and Pickering have polybutylene (Poly-B) plumbing supply lines. While a renovation is underway, consider replacing these with modern PEX or copper to avoid future plumbing failures.
Both municipalities now permit secondary suites in most residential zones. Basement apartments can generate $1,200-$1,800 per month in rental income, making them a strong investment during a renovation.
Homes in Pickering near Rouge National Urban Park boundaries should confirm any development restrictions before planning additions or major exterior work.
When renovating kitchens and bathrooms in 1970s-80s homes, budget for potential electrical panel upgrades. Many older panels are 100-amp service, insufficient for modern appliance loads and code requirements.
Get pre-renovation asbestos testing in any home built before 1985. The cost of professional testing is minor compared to the liability and health risks of disturbing asbestos unknowingly.
Frequently Asked Questions: Renovations in Ajax & Pickering
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Ajax or Pickering?
A typical kitchen renovation in Ajax or Pickering ranges from $35,000 to $75,000 depending on scope, material selections, and whether structural changes like wall removal are involved. Mid-range renovations with new cabinetry, quartz countertops, and updated appliances generally fall in the $45,000-$60,000 range. The strong mid-market property values in these communities mean quality kitchen renovations offer solid return on investment.
Can I add a second storey to my Ajax wartime bungalow?
Yes, second-storey additions are a popular renovation for the original 1940s-50s Ajax bungalows, which are typically only 800-1,100 square feet. However, the original concrete block foundations must be assessed by a structural engineer, as they may need reinforcement or underpinning to support additional load. You will need a building permit from the Town of Ajax, and the addition must comply with current OBC requirements and municipal zoning bylaws including setbacks and height restrictions.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement in Pickering?
Yes, basement finishing requires a building permit from the City of Pickering. The permit ensures your project meets Ontario Building Code requirements for egress windows, ceiling height, fire separation, smoke alarms, and mechanical ventilation. If you are adding a bathroom, you will also need plumbing permits, and any electrical work requires a separate ESA permit. If you are creating a secondary suite, additional requirements for separate entrance, kitchen facilities, and fire separation apply.
Is it worth adding a basement apartment in Ajax for rental income?
Basement secondary suites are an excellent investment in Ajax, with typical rental income of $1,200-$1,800 per month. Both Ajax and Pickering now permit secondary suites in most residential zones. A properly built basement suite typically costs $50,000-$120,000 depending on the existing basement condition and scope of work. With strong rental demand from GO Transit commuters and nearby post-secondary students, the investment can pay for itself within a few years while adding significant property value.
What should I know about renovating a 1980s home in Ajax or Pickering?
Homes from the 1980s in Ajax and Pickering typically have solid construction but may have polybutylene (Poly-B) plumbing, 100-amp electrical panels, original builder-grade finishes, and possibly asbestos-containing materials in floor tiles or drywall compound. Plan for potential plumbing and electrical upgrades alongside cosmetic changes. Clay soil conditions mean you should verify basement drainage and waterproofing are adequate before finishing below-grade spaces. These homes respond very well to renovation and offer strong return on investment given current property values.
About Ajax & Pickering
Ajax and Pickering are well-connected eastern GTA communities along the GO Transit Lakeshore East line, offering direct commuter access to downtown Toronto. Strong schools, proximity to Lake Ontario waterfront trails, and growing commercial amenities make these municipalities popular with families, sustaining steady demand for home renovation and improvement projects.
Our Services in Ajax & Pickering
Bathroom Renovations
Complete bathroom remodels from powder rooms to luxury ensuites
Kitchen Renovations
Custom kitchen remodels for modern living
Basement Renovations
Transform your unfinished basement into beautiful living space
Secondary Dwelling Units
Complete ADU and in-law suite construction
Legal Rental Units
Code-compliant basement apartments for rental income
General Contracting
Full-service residential construction and renovation
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