10 Mistakes to Avoid During a Home Renovation

Home Renovation Mistakes

A home renovation is a big project to take on. If you are planning on doing a renovation, here are ten mistakes you should avoid making.

1. An unrealistic timeline

Construction projects almost always take longer than expected. Usually, this is due to unforeseen obstacles, such as work time, weather conditions, and the time taken to get materials. Make sure to build extra time into your project schedule. This will save you stress if you go over what time you allotted for the project.

2. Cheap materials

As the old saying goes, you get what you paid for. If you choose inexpensive materials, you are more likely to run into problems such as wood warping, rough saw cuts, and an overall cheap looking finished project. Always go for the highest quality materials you can afford, making sure to buy extra materials. Extra materials are needed in case of damaged items, incorrect cuts, or future repairs needed.

3. Starting without a plan

Before you start construction, make sure you do your research. Know what building codes you need to follow, get the permits you need, and, if necessary, seek the advice of a professional.

4. Skipping prep work

Prep work is as important as the actual project. Take the time to prepare your area. Tape off areas before painting, use drop cloths to protect furniture, and so on.

5. Not preparing for a mess

Home renovations projects are messy! There’s no way around it. If you plan on staying in your home while the renovation is going on, it’s going to be loud. Cover adjacent rooms with drop cloths to protect them.

6. Neglecting safety measures

Safety gear is important no matter how small a job is. Wear safety glasses, appropriate face coverings, and hire a professional when needed, such as for electrical wiring.

7. Taking inaccurate measurements

Bad measurements lead to additional costs! Instead of going in blind, make sure to measure your materials twice before cutting. You can also consider hiring a professional to measure your materials for you.

8. Using incorrect tools

Make sure that you are using the correct tools for each job. If you do not have the right tool in your toolbox, you can contact a rental company, who can provide the proper tools to you at an hourly rate. If you are hiring a contractor, they will typically have the right tools on hand.

9. Failing to vet contractors

If you are hiring a contractor, whether it be for a whole project or just part of one, you need to make sure you do proper research. Look into reviews, look at the company’s Better Business Bureau’s listing, and take time to interview them.

10. Overbuilding

Keep in mind what the other houses in your neighborhood look like. If you don’t plan on staying in the home for a while, it may be a better idea to scale back as having the renovations too opulent may make it hard to sell.