The 11 Biggest Dos and Don'ts of Home Remodeling

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Are you planning a home remodeling project? Congratulations. A well-executed home renovation can add significant value to your property, and it makes all the difference when it comes time to sell. You also enjoy the immediate benefits of living in an updated, stylish home. Plus, you avoid safety hazards associated with outdated homes such as electrical fires and mold growth.

With all the advantages of home remodeling, it's no wonder this is such a popular undertaking. However, not all home remodeling projects are created equal. Be aware of certain dos and don'ts to ensure your project is successful. They include:

Plan Ahead

Proper planning is essential when you're remodeling an apartment, a house, or a condo. Why are you carrying out the exercise? Do you want to add more space, make it energy-efficient, or improve its appearance? How long should this project take? What is your budget? Be clear about your objectives from the outset, saving you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

Confirm Your Measurements

It's easy to get your measurements wrong when planning a home remodeling project. This is especially the case when dealing with an existing structure. Always confirm your measurements before ordering any materials or starting work. You'll avoid costly mistakes that could set your project back by weeks – or even months. Better still, have someone else, preferably a professional, confirm the measurements.

Get Professional Help

You might be tempted to take on a home remodeling project to save money. Don't. Unless you're a professional contractor, chances are you'll make mistakes that will cost you more in the long run. It's always best to get professional help, even if it means spending more money upfront.

Talk to a contractor, an architect, or a designer. They can help you create a plan and see it through to completion. They will also help you set a budget, adjust your goals, and find suitable materials. You'll have an even better result than if you tried to do it yourself.

Prepare for the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan, unexpected costs and delays will always occur. Have a contingency fund to cover these. A good rule of thumb is to add 10-20% to your total budget. It will help you avoid going over budget and experiencing financial stress.

The same goes for the time allocated to the project. Expect delays and include them in your planning. This way, you won't be caught off-guard if the project takes longer than expected.

Stay True to The House Design

Make sure all the remodeling you do fits in with the original design of your home. You want your home to look like it was always meant to be that way. This is especially important if you live in a historic home. You don't want to do anything that would mar the beauty or value of your property.

Never Compromise on Materials

The quality of the materials you use will significantly impact the results of your home remodeling project. Use high-quality, durable materials that will stand the test of time. This is especially true for cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances.

Cheap materials might save you money upfront but will cost you more in the long run. They need replacing sooner and won't add as much value to your home.

Don't Over-Improve

You might be tempted to go overboard when remodeling your home. After all, you want it to look its best. However, you don't want to over-improve, which means making improvements that are too expensive for the current neighborhood. For example, if you add a luxurious master bathroom but the rest of the homes in your area have small bathrooms, you've overimproved.

Consider the estimated resale value of your home. To recoup the cost of your improvements, it should be at least 10-20% higher than other homes in the area. Otherwise, you might not make your money back if you sell.

Don't Buy Furniture Before Completing the Project

Rarely will a home remodeling project go exactly as planned. The space might look different than you imagined, or the furniture you planned for might not fit.  Wait until the project is done before you buy any new furniture, so you can be sure it will all work together. 

It is okay, however, to have the furniture you want in mind before starting the project, including the size, shape, and style of each piece. Doing so helps you visualize the result and ensure it meets your expectations.

It's Okay to Buy Extra Flooring

Buying just enough flooring for your project is risky.  You might miscalculate the amount you need or damage some during installation.  It's better to buy 10-20% more than you need.  This way, you'll have enough to finish the project and have extras in case of accidents. Also, some designs go out of stock quickly, which means it's harder to find the exact matching pieces if you need extra.

Keep The Future in Mind

Keep the future in mind as you plan your home remodeling project. Will you still like the results in 5, 10, or 20 years? Choose materials and designs that will stand the test of time. You might be tempted to go with the latest trends, but they might not be popular in a few years. If you're not sure, ask a professional. They can help you make choices that will last for years to come.

Don't Skip a Home Inspection After the Project Is Done

Once the home remodeling project is completed, don't forget to get a home inspection. The exercise identifies any problems that need fixing. It will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is in good condition.

Critical assessments include the roof, electrical, plumbing systems, and foundation. These are all crucial parts of your home that can be expensive to repair if not in good condition.

The Effort Makes Your Home Comfortable and Stylish.

Home remodeling is a great way to improve your home's value and make it more comfortable and stylish. If you keep these dos and don'ts in mind, the project will be a success. Always consult with professionals, set a budget, and stay true to the design of your home. Ask yourself if you'll still like the results in a few years. Most importantly, prioritize safety and functionality.