Remodeling the home is indeed a daunting task. From the overwhelming costs to the many decisions to make, it can be challenging for homeowners to get started. On top of all this, successfully executing a home remodel requires a lot of hard work, patience and careful planning. Because of this, homeowners often come to a standstill and put off their home remodel because they don't know where or how to start.
Fortunately, though, there are ways to make the entire process much more manageable. Below, you will find 12 golden rules that every homeowner planning to begin a home remodeling project. These will help them stay organised and on track for the duration of their project.
How Can I Execute A Successful Home Remodel?
Rule One: Have A Plan
Before you start looking for a contractor, you need to have your plan down. Work with an architect or designer who can help get the look and feel that suits your needs. You will also need to think about what type of remodeling you want (kitchen, bathroom, etc.) as well as any zoning limitations, a remodeling schedule, and finally, your budget.
Starting the process without a clear plan or goal in mind is almost guaranteed to result in a less than ideal outcome. So, homeowners must make sure they have a set plan before starting.
Set on doing a kitchen remodel? Here’s Why You Need An Architect For Your Kitchen Remodel.
Rule Two: Connect With A Professional Contractor
When you are ready to connect with a professional contractor, work with someone who has the right qualifications and experience for what you need. Remember that there are different types of contractors out there, so it is essential to find one that will fit your needs best.
Don't forget to read reviews of contractors from previous customers. These are a valuable resource as they allow you to see what past clients have been saying about their experience with that contractor. This, in turn, can help guide your decision-making process for hiring a general contractor.
Lastly, there is no better way of ensuring that you will get a fair quote than by going through quotes from various contractors.
Rule Three: Temporarily Move Your Home Items Into A Self Storage Unit
This is particularly important if you are undertaking a complete home remodel. If not, make it your priority to move all of the things that will be in the way as soon as possible so construction can begin.
You may be thinking, "Wouldn't this be an unnecessary expense?" Well, it doesn't have to be, according to What Storage, an online marketplace for self storage in Glasgow, London, and other areas in the United Kingdom.
This is because, with self storage, you are effectively saving your belongings from the risk of getting damaged due to exposure to moisture, sharp tools, heavy objects, and random debris.
Moreover, you can rest assured that your belongings are safe and secure inside a storage unit as most facilities have cameras, security guards, and even alarm systems that prevent even the possibility of theft. Climate control is also available in most facilities, thus eliminating the risk of mould, mildew, and other moisture-related damages.
Rule Four: Get Your Home Ready
After clearing your home of furniture and appliances, all homeowners should take the time to clean their homes before they get started with a remodelling project. This includes scrubbing walls, removing fixtures, sweeping floors, cleaning windows (inside and out), vacuuming carpets, etc. This can be a tedious and time-consuming job, but it is well worth the effort to make sure your home's new look will last.
Rule Five: Get Permits and Inspections
Homeowners need to remember that they will need permits before starting a remodeling project and inspections once the work has been completed. If you are unsure about what type of permit or inspection you require, talk to your general contractor or your local building inspector, who can clarify this for you.
Rule Six: Always Take Your Daily Routine Into Consideration
When you are planning a home remodel, it is also essential to consider your daily routine when looking for the best time of day to work with contractors. This means figuring out which type of noise or activity does not disrupt your everyday life and what times will provide you with maximum space and less disruption.
Also, look into the possibility of temporarily relocating your daily routine to an alternate space until the project has been completed.
Rule Seven: Make Sure You Have An Emergency Kit
This includes a first-aid kit, your prescriptions and any other medications you may need, as well as important documents such as insurance policies or identification. This ensures that you are prepared for anything that may happen, so you don't have to worry about scrambling to find essential items when they're needed the most.
The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends these items to be a standard in every kit found in a construction site.
Rule Eight: Protect Your Investment
If you are undertaking a complete home remodel, find out what kind of warranties your contractors offer. This will allow you to rest easy, knowing that the contractor is obligated to fix it for free if something goes wrong.
You will also want to look into purchasing insurance policies that will cover your home during the time of construction. This is crucial, as you will have to make sure that all your possessions are covered in the event of a loss.
Rule Nine: Don't Forget Your Neighbours
It's important to remember your neighbours when you are thinking about a home remodel. Be sure to ask them whether they would be okay with excessive noise, if there is anything that will need extra work (such as installing an additional power outlet) and other concerns. However, this does not mean that you should be asking them for permission but instead informing them of the changes to come.
Rule Ten: Prepare Your Kids For The Change
It is essential to talk with your kids about any upcoming home improvements and remodels so they are fully aware of what's going on in their world. Talk about all things renovation-related - like potential construction noise, possible relocation of bedrooms and so on - as well as explaining why the changes are necessary. This will help them understand what needs to happen to create a more functional space for your family.
Rule Eleven: Be Patient With Yourself
A home remodel is never easy, but it's important not to get discouraged at the first sign of difficulty. Try to keep a positive attitude and take your time during the project so you can enjoy it as much as possible.
Rule Twelve: Make Sure Communication Is Always Open With Your Remodeling Team
It is important to remember that you are working with a team on your home remodel, so it's crucial for everyone involved in the project to be open and communicative. This helps ensure that there will be no misunderstandings or issues during the process of completing your renovations.
Remember to always be clear with your expectations and desires so you can get the results that will make your home completely liveable. It is, however, also crucial for you to learn how to listen to your team. Make sure to be respectful and give them the chance to share their input on what is best for you and your family.
Final Thoughts
With these twelve golden rules, you are sure to be able to successfully execute a home remodel into your family's new living space. Remember that it is not always easy, but anything can happen with the right knowledge and preparation!
Once you’ve finished your big home renovation, you will also want to check out these tips on How To Design Your Home Décor.
Author Bio: Michaela Pinga of WhatStorage
Michaela, who has since rediscovered her love for writing, has a degree and went to school for digital filmmaking. In her free time, Michaela enjoys consuming an alarmingly large amount of pop content in the form of books, TV shows, films, music, and many others.
