Remodeling your house requires research, time, and proper budgeting to achieve the results you want. You need to consider several crucial aspects, which is why hiring a reputable home renovation contractor is often beneficial. Doing so can ensure you get it right the first time. Also, learning about several common home remodeling mistakes will help make the process easier and help you get the best outcome.
Several common home remodeling mistakes
Buying Cheap Materials
Be sure to select high-quality, durable materials that won’t need to be replaced within a few years of installation. A reputable contractor won’t skimp on the material quality, giving you a better result.
If you are trying to reduce cost, cut items out that will not impact the overall design of the space, and which can be easily added down the road. For example, a kitchen backsplash, cabinet hardware, hidden water bubbler, unnecessary built-in cabinetry, or high-end marble tile.
Improper Space Planning
When doing a home renovation, space planning is key to defining your room and furniture layout so you get maximum benefit from your new space. It can be something simple like the size and location of your island, or billiard table. It can be more dramatic putting together an entire layout for your open floor plan.
Ignoring The Details
When you work with a home renovation contractor, be sure to discuss the specific features you want in your home. This can include toe-kick storage, feature walls, heated floors, and more. Installing them during the remodeling process will help you save time and money.
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Wrong Architectural Elements
The most common architectural elements you will choose for your renovation are your windows, doors, and floors. They are hard to replace down the road, so you want to invest in quality. When it comes to windows, you want to select high-quality styles that suit the interior and exterior design of the home and space. They should work in tandem with the natural lighting of the property and offer easy access and function. Construction technology today gives you access to high-quality windows that are efficient too.
When you are selecting doors, you want to choose styles that offer beauty and function to the space. Make sure they are wide enough to accommodate multiple people, especially if it’s a main entry or through way. Like your windows, make sure they are efficient and sturdy.
When selecting floors consider the environment they will be installed in and exposed to. For example, slate or tile may work best for your mudroom and laundry room, but prefinished hardwood flooring is perfect for your kitchen and common areas since they are so easy to keep clean and maintain over the years.
Focus on Appearance
While making sure the space looks nice is important, it is also critical to address any safety or structural issues when remodeling your home. This includes updating the electrical system, ensuring foundations are solid and more. Doing so will help fix potential problems and avoid expensive repair work in future.
Don’t Underestimate cost
One of the biggest renovation mistakes is not having a proper budget. It is best to know how much you are willing to spend and an estimate of what the items you want will cost before starting so you can plan accordingly.
Speak to a home renovation contractor to see if what you want is possible within your budget. It may also help to build some room into the budget in case of unexpected expenses such as additional plumbing, structural work, electrical upgrades, and more.
Making Too many changes along the way
Changes that seem simple to you may require a lot of work on the back end, so be sure you check with your designer or builder on even slight adjustments. Even moving a light switch a few feet can cost $1,500.
Measure accurately
If your dimensions are off and it’s not equal and symmetrical, you’re not going to get the full impact and effect that you want. If you’re not sure about how to measure or you can’t follow the directions, don’t hesitate at all to call somebody. Ask them to come over and take the measurement for you.
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Take the Lightning Seriously
Lighting fixtures can give the most excellent transformations when they are well thought out. Work with an electrician or lighting specialist to create a plan that works for your space and future goals. You can combine various aspects such as general lighting, smart lighting, accents, and task lighting for the best results.