Renovating a home can be a complex project, and there are a lot of components that need to be considered before you get started. No matter how large or small the renovation job is, it’s always smart to follow certain standardized steps as part of your planning process. Read on to learn ideas for planning your renovation so that you can best avoid any expensive surprises along the way.
1. Plumbing and Wires
Before you start, know where all your pipes and wires are for your plumbing and utilities. Too often, homeowners will begin to cut into walls, flooring, or other parts of their home and accidentally damage a pipe or wire. While they can be replaced, you will need to cut power and/or water to your home to have them repaired. This kind of mistake incurs extra expense that you weren’t prepared for and could cause other issues if not taken care of immediately.
2. Protect Your Flooring
No matter which parts of your home are being renovated, your flooring could be at risk of being damaged. Before starting the renovation process, cover your floors and ensure any damage is quickly repaired. If you leave a damaged floor exposed for too long, you may open your home to other more costly types of damage caused by water or other unforeseen elements.
3. Start in the Kitchen and Bathrooms
The most significant part of any renovation is usually the kitchen; that is exactly where you should begin if you are doing a large remodel project. Kitchen renovation can cause the most debris in any renovation project. This room is typically the center of the home and is connected to the plumbing in your home. After you tackle the kitchen, Builders recommends renovating your bathrooms next, as both rooms play a major role in the functioning of your home.
4. Set Aside Surprise Funds
Especially in the case of extensive renovation projects, unexpected project requirements are bound to pop up. Avoid cutting your budget so tight that you must leave a project unfinished when / if the money runs out. Ensure you have funds to correct these issues should your contractor come across them during the process.
5. Be Flexible With Your Timeline
As we all know, renovation projects are known to run over their expected timelines. Completion dates often have to be adjusted in a project for the following reasons:
- Unexpected Repairs
- Contractor emergency
- Lack of access to materials
All of these have the potential to stop a project temporarily. If you set a deadline that is far enough out to account for the unknown, you’re less likely to be disappointed. This can help maintain a healthy relationship with your contractor and keep communication open, which is critical for a successful renovation.
6. Check on Local Permits
Some areas require local permits to be in place before the renovation can begin. As a homeowner, it’s best to know the laws and regulations around building and renovation in your area. If you live in the city limits, contact your City Planning, Zoning, or Building department to see what type of building permit you need. If you have a home in the county area, you must contact the county government office to ask the same questions. These permits must be acquired first, or they can result in unexpected fines and delays.
7. Prepare Your Family for Accommodations
Many homeowners fail to realize how inconvenienced they might be during the process of their renovation project. After having a detailed discussion with your contractor about what will and will not be accessible, you’ll need to make accommodations. This means you’ll want to plan meals and cooking methods if your kitchen is out of order for two weeks. This type of planning is also crucial in the case of undertaking bathroom renovations. Let your family know their boundaries and where they can expect to live during this time.
8. Impacts on Your Lawn
During the renovation, your lawn and garden could be affected in ways you may have not considered. For example, the renovation crew will need a place to throw their debris during demolition. This could cause damage to your lawn, particularly if a large disposal bin is left on the grass for several days. You need to be aware if there will be areas that will be closed off to you and your family during this time.
9. Protect Your Children and Pets
If you have small children, doing a renovation can be tricky and will require certain safety measures to be put in place. First, you’ll need to notify your contractor that small children are in the home, and sharp or otherwise dangerous objects should be accounted for. Close off dangerous areas from children so they can’t get into the room should they become curious about tools and materials.
If you have family pets that live in your home, you must consider how this project will impact them. If they are indoors, it is vital to find a way to keep them out of the renovation area so they are not injured. Consider expensive materials that will have to be replaced if a pet damages them. For both indoor and outdoor pets, alert your contractor and their crew to their presence to ensure the animals’ safety.
10. Paint Last
It’s always best to begin painting at the end of your renovation project. Because additional repairs could be needed, you do not need to paint as you go, even if you think you are saving time. Once all the holes are sealed and the tools are away from home, you can pull out the paintbrush. Some homeowners will attempt to paint as they go and find they need to paint again, requiring additional budget.
Consult with Builders and Get Renovating
Before you set out on your home renovation, work with our experienced team to find a contractor in your area. Our experts will make the selection process a breeze, giving you more time to focus on designing your dream home.
