A home renovation project is a huge undertaking. If it is not done with the right approach, it can result in ugly twists and disappointments. Many people dive into renovations without knowing what to expect or adequate preparation. Renovations do not start in a blank state like building something new; some things can be unforeseen, making the process complex.
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Therefore, before going down a regretful renovation
path, here are essential things to know beforehand.
Situation
Assessment is Crucial
Homeowners are sometimes tempted to begin renovations
straight away, but renovation should begin with a thought process.
Assessing the situation allows someone to know what is
needed—for example, flooring, hardware replacements, room division, light
requirements, and more. If a particular space does not receive adequate natural
lighting, internal glazed doors can be excellent
replacements for doors that do not bring in much light.
With a situation analysis, homeowners can also see the
areas they need to gravitate more toward.
Schedule
Lists, Timelines, and Substitute Arrangements
No one wants to keep living in a building site for a
longer time than is necessary. It is essential to pause and assess the amount
of work needed to devise a thorough plan about how long the renovation will
take and the arrangements to make.
It will not make sense to start a bedroom renovation
project only to have no place to sleep or a kitchen project and not have
somewhere to prepare the meals.
Scheduling avoids chaos and unnecessary overlapping.
Some renovation tasks can be done simultaneously, but without a schedule, they
may be done separately, costing even more.
Additional to a schedule, it also helps to break down
a project into phases, for example, kitchen extension, office extension, loft
conversion, and the like.
The desired start and completion dates should have
allowances for addressing unexpected issues. The timeline set should cater to
material deliveries, and if it may be affected by significant events like
travel, they must be considered too.
Some decisions can make or break timelines; therefore,
it is essential to be flexible and open to ideas and discussions.
Renovation
Budget
The renovation will require money. If there are not
enough funds, cut the project back. There will be materials to be bought, labor
costs to be incurred, and professionals to be paid. That is why it is essential
to work out a realistic budget beforehand.
Those who are not good at budgeting can seek help from
different professional contractors and compare the quotes to avoid the risk of
unnecessarily paying too much.
The allocated budget should always have an allowance
that can cater to unanticipated mishaps. It is not unlikely to find an issue or
problem that comes to light during the process. Homes hold secrets, for
example, under the floors or within walls.
The floors may be uneven after an unknown shifted
center joist, and knocking down walls may reveal some unanticipated issues like
the need to change the wiring system. Roof spaces and floorboards may also
reveal rot that was never thought about.
Style
Definition
Homeowners who want to renovate their homes often have
a specific design style in mind. Some final touches can be done later or even
changed to complement the style. However, sometimes it is better to finish what
may be costlier or time-consuming later on when the renovation is on. The
renovation projects should flow with the existing design structure. If, for
example, new additions deviate too much, there will be a feeling of
disconnection. It can even be apparent which parts are newly renovated and
which ones are not.
Some
Projects Require Permits and Inspection
Some renovation processes like plumbing, electrical,
and gas installation may require county or municipality permits and inspections
depending on where someone lives. Other requirements may limit the number of
house stories. These are usually precautions to avert possible crises later.
Compliance is a must for homeowners whose renovation
projects affect such restriction guidelines.
Structural
Works Should be Done Before Decorative Works
If the renovation combines structural and decorative
projects, begin with the former. Structural works include electrical,
insulation, carpentry, demolition, plumbing, and HVAC, while decorative works
mean accessory, surface finishing, or furnishing additions. For obvious
reasons, structural works should be completed first.
The Need for
Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly Projects
Many people do not consider renovating their homes for
aesthetics and energy efficiency. However, it is a good idea to consider
energy-efficient and eco-friendly projects during the renovation if the budget
allows. It can be an efficient way to save on future utility costs.
For example, homeowners can consider adding renewables like solar panels, adding insulation, a new boiler,
energy-efficient doors, or any other measures to the project.
Compromise
Can be Necessary
Renovation can sometimes mean compromise, especially
for those with tight budgets. To save costs, skilled homeowners can do some
projects without needing professionals to save money. Recycled and reusable
materials can also help cut costs and yield good results. Homeowners doing
their renovations can also borrow or rent the tools instead of buying new ones
that may end up sitting idle after the renovation.
While working out ways to cut costs, it is essential
to be cautious. It is not a good idea to skimp on cheap things without
critically analyzing them. Sometimes, they may be cheap because they are low
quality or less durable, which may eventually mean spending more.
Final
Thoughts
Taking on a home renovation project is exciting,
challenging, and rewarding. Since renovations do not start on a blank page,
they can turn out to be complex processes and are prone to unanticipated
expenses or issues, inconveniences, and delays. Preparation is critical, and
with the above guide about what is crucial, homeowners can work on successful
projects.
