Homeowners often moan and groan about how stressful it is to remodel. It’s true that remodeling can be stressful, but the majority of the stress stems from mistakes that many homeowners make during the remodeling process. Transform your home without the headaches by avoiding these common remodeling mistakes!
Not Doing Your Homework
Many homeowners make the mistake of jumping into a remodel project without doing their homework first. It’s recommended that homeowners conduct research to determine which rooms to remodel and materials to use. Homeowners should also research the remodeling process so they know exactly what to expect once construction is underway. Doing this homework can prepare you for the remodeling process so there are no stressful surprises along the way.
Choosing the Wrong Contractor
The contractor can make or break your remodeling project. Unprofessional contractors will go over budget, miss deadlines, and perform shoddy work. Don’t let one of these contractors ruin your remodel. Take the time to perform reference checks and verify credentials so you can choose the right contractor for the job.
Taking Inaccurate Measurements
Contractors live by the rule “measure twice, cut once” because they understand the importance of taking accurate measurements. Measurements are used to price and cut various materials, so you will end up with too much or too little if the numbers aren’t correct. Paying for
Being Indecisive
According to Consumer Reports, the biggest mistake that homeowners make while remodeling is changing their minds once construction has begun. Making last-minute changes to your plans can significantly increase the cost of the remodeling project and lead to extensive delays. It’s best to spend more time in the initial design stages so you’re completely satisfied with the final plans instead of rushing through the design and making changes throughout the project.
Making Too Many “Trendy” Choices
Choosing trendy flooring, countertops, and colors may seem like a good idea now, but it won’t when these trends are no longer popular. Trendy choices can make your home look outdated sooner rather than later, and can lower the value of your home in the future. Avoid this mistake by balancing a small number of hot-style-of-the-moment design fixtures with updates featuring classic colors and materials.
Making Impractical Choices
Another factor to consider when choosing materials and colors is practicality. For example, hardwood is a beautiful flooring choice that can increase the value of your home. However, it’s not the best choice for families with pets since it is not resistant to scratches. You’ll have to keep restoring your hardwood floors over the years, especially if you plan to ever sell. This example illustrates the importance of keeping your family and lifestyle in mind when choosing materials and colors during a remodel.
Failing to Budget For Unexpected Expenses
It doesn’t matter how carefully you plan for a remodel—a problem will arise when you least expect it. For example, the contractor could discover a previously unknown leak after tearing apart your kitchen. Mold or pests are also a common find during remodels. If you’re upgrading an older home, you may need to make add on some last-minute changes to bring you up to code.
Problems like these lead to unexpected expenses, which is why it’s so important to leave a little room in your budget. Failing to leave wiggle room in your budget could send you scrambling for cash when a problem does arise.
Avoiding these mistakes can help homeowners stay within their budget, meet deadlines, and complete a stress-free home remodel!