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WILLIAM J. ROSS CONSTRUCTION LTD. 

...A Good Investment for the Future

 

In 1964, William J. Ross Construction Ltd. established both a Simcoe and an area tradition of building not just homes but building neighborhoods that stand today as a proud reminder of Bill Ross' determination to be a quality builder. Bill set out to concentrate on the potential for custom home construction in the local community. How well he succeeded is seen today in second and third-time buyers of a Ross Home. As the community of Simcoe grew, so did the work of the company. Now with over 55 years' experience in serving the residential building industry the company's reputation for fine homes in traditional styles, outstanding building renovations and superb house additions is a proven and established fact.

Today, Bill's son, Mike, owns and run the business, operating as a team involved with all aspects of day-to-day sales and construction matters, working on site as "hands-on builders." Mike learned their trade and skills from their father with the addition of exposure to latest innovations in residential materials and construction methodology. The company office still centred in the town of Simcoe but with an expanded territory that essentially extends in a 45 mile radius. New custom home construction is the major part of their projects, with repeat clients and word-of-mouth recommendations generating leads and contracts. Mike works with their clients to discuss design and specification at their office or at their clients' homes-whatever feels more comfortable. As a custom builder Mike uses different brands of windows, heating systems, roofing products and interior treatments and finishes. The close relationship with clients extends from initial design, to interior colour coordination of the finished home. Clients visit the site throughout the construction phases, especially at key stages. In addition, clients are updated on construction progress via digital images, zoom ans facetime, if unable to travel to the site.

The towns of southwestern Ontario, in particular those adjacent to the Lake Erie lake shore are proving to be attractive locations for clientele seeking changes to their lifestyles. The towns of Port Dover, Long Point, Port Rowan, Port Ryerse, Delhi and Tillsonburg are locations where the company has built homes. Mike feels their use of the latest in architectural design CAD software and new construction technology will keep them at the forefront of the industry. The use of engineered floor systems on all their projects, higher insulation standards, Heat Recovery Ventilators, plus decreased use of particle board for improved air quality in the home environment emphasizes the value of a Ross Home. As a long-time member of the Brantford Home Builders' Association, we are proud of our achievements in this industry. They were finalists for the Ernest Assaly Award for After Sales Service under the Ontario New Homes Warranty Program.

Older homes in close proximity to the lakeshore and beach facilities are enjoying an increase in value as prospective buyers are attracted to their appealing prospects. These homes, often built 40, 50 or 60 years ago and located amidst mature, tree bound neighbourhoods are prime candidates for renovation. Converting older homes to increased footage, larger rooms and windows, expanded kitchen and bathroom facilities and interior decorating techniques reflecting today's trends offer a bargain waiting to be discovered, even after the cost of renovation is considered.

Among recent renovation projects by William J. Ross Construction Ltd. is the Long Point Lighthouse. This 132 year old historic and distinctive land mark has been restored to its original presence. Long Point, Ontario, has been labelled the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes" because so many ships have sunk or run aground in these waters. The white wooden light tower and house were built on a one foot thick stone foundation with the wide based square tower tapered up to a height of 65 feet. The wooden structure used post and beam timbers typical of its day. The renovation restored the walls, doors, windows, floor planking and upper deck railing to its original design and character. A replicated beacon light sits a top the lighthouse tower, but nowadays its purpose is not to warn the unsuspecting of treacherous shoals or oncoming storms. Bob declares, "This restoration took two years working with a local historical architect. We found it necessary to take the structure down to the bare bones to repair the 85 years of neglect and decay the lighthouse decommissioned in 1916 but the end result has made it all worth while." This unique and extensive restoration was awarded a SAM award in the category of Renovations over $100,000 with both the Canadian and  Ontario Home Builders' Association in 2001.

William J. Ross Construction Ltd. has specialized in custom kitchen cabinetry to complement their home construction activities. With the use of computer aided technology, the advantage of professionally designed kitchen arrangements, incorporating features that add convenience and elegance to the remodeled home, can be readily demonstrated. Cabinets are handcrafted with traditional wood-working skills, the material choice range from red oak, maple, cherry and pine. Countertop choice covers marble, granite, post form Arborite and solid surface. Bathroom and remodeling is another area in home renovation projects in which Mike offers an extensive bank of expertise. "The investment in kitchen and bathroom upgrading, in most instances, gives the best long term value to the home. We consider these rooms are the heart of the home for many of our clients," says Mike.

This company prides itself as a multi-functional builder renovator. They offer splendid choice in custom design, whether the home is 800 or 4,000 square feet, or a renovation from 500 to 3,000 square feet. Superior flexible designs and quality materials, with one on one attention to detail and competent subtrades all contribute to a home that exceeds the Ontario Building Code. Without doubt, a Ross Homes is a good investment for the future, as many in their community have discovered to their advantage.