When it comes to home improvements, there is a lot to work with. It can be easy to get overwhelmed with the scope of the renovations and miss important things. Staying organized and having a plan are key when remodeling. Here are five home renovation mistakes you want to avoid.
1. Underestimating the budget
Home improvements can be expensive, and you need to be realistic when considering your budget. Don’t plan out how you are going to spend every single cent. If you don’t have extra money set aside, a little problem can quickly become a big problem. For example, needing to replace drywall that accidentally got broken or flooring that cracked in transit are some of the realities of remodeling. Have room in your budget for unexpected expenses so that you can finish the home renovation and finish it well. This is especially important if your house is old and may have structural issues you are unaware of.
2. Measuring incorrectly
This seems like a little thing, but it is so important, especially for people who are remodeling their houses themselves. Everything should be measured many times so the numbers are exact. The last thing you want is to finish installing cabinets only to realize your fridge no longer fits in the space you left for it. Measuring twice – or even three or four times – can save you a lot of time and money in the end. When it comes to flooring, always get a little extra, even if you are sure of the measurements. It is better to return it than not have enough and have to order more.
3. Being too trendy
There are always different home renovation trends, so don’t base your entire design on what’s popular that season. You might end up getting tired of it, and extremely specific design trends make a home harder to sell. Instead, make your home improvements functional. There is a difference between being stylish and only doing something because it is popular. Choose what is right for the architecture of your home and the needs of the people who live there.
4. Ignoring things you can’t see
When going through a home renovation, it can be tempting to focus on finishes and ignore underlying issues. This is a huge mistake you definitely do not want to make. Appearance is important when remodeling, but it isn’t everything. Focus on structural and safety concerns first. The last thing you want is to have to rip down your beautiful new home improvements to fix a water or electric issue just a year or two after the remodel.
5. Not giving enough attention to the right contractor
It can be tempting to hire either the first contractor you find or the cheapest one. Don’t do either of these things. Having the right contractor for your home renovation is vital. You want someone who will communicate with you, stay on budget, and finish within the time frame you agreed upon. Taking the time to find a good contractor is always worth it. You are already spending all this time and money to have home improvements be done, so you obviously want them to look great. The right contractor can help guarantee that outcome.
Need help with a home renovation?
If you are considering remodeling and looking for a contractor, try Eakman Construction. They have years of experience in both home improvements and complete builds. Eakman knows the importance of putting their customers first and always keeps you in the loop during the entire process. Call (206) 972-2275 or visit them online for more information.