Introduction:
Home renovations are exciting – they HAVE the potential to completely change the space, increase the value of your property, and make your home more livable and beautiful. But, if we can be honest, they also can be super stressful. There are a lot of moving parts with home renovations from working with contractors, to scheduling, to staying on budget and if you don’t plan properly these things can quickly become overwhelming.
The good news is that with a little planning and insider assessments from the pros, you can alleviate the stress and chaos of a remodeling project and enjoy watching your vision fall into place. The objective of this guide is to prepare you for your home remodeling project, from planning your budget, to your level of communication, and small yet important pieces of the puzzle like deck staining and roofing debris over the process to carry out a successful home renovation project.
- Start with a Clear Vision
Before calling a contractor, take the time to clarify what you want to achieve in your renovation.
- Outline your objectives: Are you looking for more space? A fresh look? Improved function?
- Collect inspiration: Look through design blogs, Pinterest boards, magazines, etc. to create a mood board.
- Determine your ‘must-haves’ and ‘nice-to-haves: By separating your desires, you will be less distracted should a budget need to be reduced.
By having a clear vision, you can limit last minute adjustments (and the ensuing stress and costs) which is one of the things that puts everyone’s budget at the greatest risk.
- Build a Realistic Budget
A budget enables you to navigate your renovation with confidence. Here is how:
- Gather multiple estimates: Always get at least three estimates from contractors so you can compare.
- Include hidden costs: With scenarios to include permits, design fees, and a 10–15% unknown allowance (for example: unexpected water damage).
- Prioritize: Start with the structural and functioning aspects of the renovation, and indulge in elements, like counter tops and fixtures, last.
Feeling secure about your budget lessens your fear of running out of funds and lessens the need to skimp on quality in the middle of the renovation.
- Choose the Right Professionals
It is essential to hire the best team possible for your renovation projects. Make sure to look for licensed and insured contractors with a great reputation and great reviews.
- Inquire About References: Speak to past clients about their communication style, ability to adhere to timelines, and quality of workmanship.
- Ask About Management: Finding a contractor who is able to manage subcontractors and schedules will save you time and potential frustration down the line.
- Get Documentation in Writing: It must be clearly stated in contracts the final expense costs, estimated timelines, and your expectations.
When you trust your team, you can relax with the benefit of knowing your project is in capable hands.
- Set a Realistic Timeline
Renovating often takes longer than you expect, so plan for some flexibility.
- Plan Around Your Life: Try not to schedule significant work over holidays or family events.
- Plan for Delays: Delays from weather, shipping, and permit approvals can impact timelines.
- Check In: Scheduling weekly check-ins with your contractor will help keep everyone moving in the same direction.
A realistic timeline will help reduce frustration and keep everyone on the same page.
- Prepare Your Space Before Work Begins
Dust and noise from a renovation can be one of the most stressful components of the process. Here’s a way to prepare:
- Clear the Area: Move furniture, valuables and personal items out from the area you are renovating.
- Establish Temporary Spaces: If you are doing a kitchen remodel, create a mini cooking space set up with a microwave or coffee maker.
- Protect Your Floors: Lay down some plastic sheeting or tarps to avoid unnecessary damage.
This way, you are allowing the space to have something of an order to it, rather than complete chaos.
- Plan for Outdoor Work – Including Deck Staining
Outdoor renovations are often overshadowed but are just as important to the comfort and curb appeal of your home. If your renovation job includes staining the deck, here is how to keep it stress free:
- Choose the Correct Season: Spring or very early Fall is best, because either extreme of temperature can affect adhesion to the stain.
- Prepping your Deck: If you are staining over an old deck, power wash or sand the deck to remove dirt, mold, or old stain before putting a fresh coat on.
- Choose a Quality Stain: Choose a top-tier stain that will protect your deck from UV damage and moisture and help it last longer.
Staining your deck correctly not only beautifies your outdoor space but also protects your investment from rot and moisture damage.
- Stay Organized and Communicate Clearly
Miscommunication is one of the biggest contributors to the stress of remodeling.
- Use a project binder or app: Keep everything together – contacts, receipts, and design ideas.
- Confirm details in writing: Email or text confirmations will help prevent miscommunication.
- Be present but don’t meddle: Ensure you’re checking in on the progress but without micromanaging the crew.
With good communication, you can ensure you’re in the know and feel good about being in control.
- Deal with Roofing Debris Safely and Efficiently
If you are doing any type of roofing renovation, you must have a plan for debris. Roof work creates nails, shingles, and other sharp debris that may be dangerous to your family’s safety.
- Request a dumpster: Inquire with your contractor about placing a roll-off dumpster on site for debris disposal.
- Use magnetic sweeps: When the project is complete, have the crew use magnetic sweeps as a way to address stray nails from the work.
- Protect your landscaping: Once work begins lay tarps over flowerbeds and shrubs to protect from falling debris.
All of these steps allow your yard to be left safe and help with damage to your lawn and driveway.
- Don’t Neglect Permits and Inspections
Repairing your home without permits may seem like it is saving time, by eliminating the step of getting a permit, but they can become issues later on.
- Work with your contractor: Most contractors can handle the permits for you.
- Schedule the inspections: If the work requires inspections, this ensures that your work will meet the building code in your locality.
- Keep your paperwork: If your repairs are documented, it can be very beneficial should you decide to sell your home.
Having this step protects you from a legal standpoint and for the time and safety of your home for the future.
- Take Care of Yourself During the Process
Renovations are often tiring work, both physically and mentally, therefore making time for self-care is important.
- Take Breaks: From time to time, step away from the noise and mess.
- Celebrate Success: Whenever you complete a significant section of work, make time to celebrate with small treats to recognize your progress.
- Keep Perspective: Keep in mind that any potential disruption is temporary, and you will be left with materials that will provide you with beautiful effects for years to come.
When your stress is low, you will make better decisions that you can actually enjoy!
Conclusion:
A home renovation project does not have to be a nightmare. With proper planning, clear communication, and managing many details such as deck staining and roofing debris, you can minimize stress and better manage the process. Just remember to choose the right contractor, set realistic expectations, and stay on top of the planning from start to finish.
In the end, dealing with some temporary issues is worth it when you walk into your newly improved home, beautiful, stylish, and clearly, a brand-new space that suits your lifestyle. The key is to plan wisely, stay nimble, and stay focused on the fun, new outcome which is just around the corner.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
