6 mistakes to avoid during a home renovation
Renovating a home is an exciting event for most people. The project brings about a ton of benefits. Individuals could install new things they’ve always wanted in various spaces, apply a fresh coat of paint to brighten their home, and even improve their backyard. It also enables one to remove elements that have overstayed their welcome. But here are six mistakes people make during renovations that they ought to avoid.
Forcing DIY hacks
Getting work done without professional help is a great way to reduce costs while renovating a home. This includes hanging wallpaper, painting walls, moving furniture, and light wood staining or finishing. But someone not experienced with more significant components such as electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, or the structure should not attempt to do it themselves. Doing so may lead to larger, costlier issues and may also put them in harm’s way. Hiring a professional to get such jobs done will ensure that the work is done effectively.
Setting unrealistic budgets and timeframe
A contractor quill quotes a certain amount of money and time to complete the renovation project. However, most renovation projects will take longer than the stipulated time. The job may also cost more, considering unforeseen damages and changes in the layout. So one should always expect to pay about 20% more and time when it comes to such changes in a home.
Cheaping out on materials
One should not buy cheap materials to renovate their home. Using inferior materials may help get the job done at a lowered cost, but they will degrade faster. And though one might save initially, these materials might be more prone to damage after a year, if not sooner. Therefore, it is better to invest in higher-quality materials for the best results. Similarly, one should not pick a contractor that quotes a lower fee. Instead, they should check the type and quality of materials offered for the quoted price.
Buying furniture early
Among all the excitement, people tend to buy furniture and home decor early before the job is complete. However, this may lead to purchasing the incorrect measurements or a particular room, which might result in a loss if there isn’t a return policy. Therefore, one should ensure they wait until the entire house is renovated before replacing the furniture.
Delaying installations
An individual may skip installing new components, including pantry pullouts and toe-kick storages, because of a limited budget. They might hold on to this and decide to do it later. However, doing so may result in them damaging any other changes made during the renovation. So one must account for these costs when planning a home renovation. It will ensure the installations are completed promptly and without any unnecessary damage.
Forgetting relevant permits
An unpermitted project may lead to the county or local municipal building imposing fines or tearing down the project. Moreover, the lack of proper documentation may also affect the home’s resale value. Of course, the contractor in charge of a project usually gets all the building permits required to carry out the project. However, it is essential for the homeowner also to check if all the paperwork is in order.
Another important aspect related to paperwork is home warranty. One should make sure to opt for a home warranty, as its cover protects your house from liabilities that can arise unexpectedly. This buffer helps pay for emergency fixes and repairs without having to dip into emergency savings or funds that may be needed for home maintenance after purchasing a property. Home warranties can be taken in addition to homeowners insurance, and it is a prudent investment for the long run.