It’s become a familiar story, one that almost any homeowner has heard from neighbors and friends. A home remodeling project was undertaken…and it turned into a nightmare. It doesn’t have to be that way, of course. With the right planning and knowledge at the start of a remodel, major disasters can be avoided.
1. Find the Right Contractor
A lot of headaches and hassles can be eliminated entirely at the start by finding and choosing the right remodeling contractor. Utilize referrals, reviews, and recommendations; look at previously completed projects; and see if the remodeler is a good match for the specific project and goals in mind.
2. Get Off to a Strong Start
Have a clear vision of the project and how it should turn out, rather than vague ideas. Get off to a strong start by ensuring your remodeling contractor is on board with your vision, and by understanding the process of what’s involved, how long it’s going to take, how much it will cost, what the decision making process will be, and so forth. Don’t leave unknowns or settle for vagueness.
3. Plan Ahead
Plan for the remodel in advance in terms of knowing the hours of the day when there will be work taking place, and how long the entire process will take. Perhaps the family can plan a vacation or trip out of town to coincide with the remodeling project. Otherwise, be sure to create a timeline and daily schedule that takes into account actual day-to-day life and responsibilities around the home.
4. Expect the Unexpected
Something unexpected WILL happen. A cost increase – always plan for an extra 10% over the estimate as a contingency; a project delay; an oversight; who knows? Don’t let that ruin the entire experience. Expect the unexpected, and try to take it in stride as much as possible.
5. Clutter & Cleaning
Establish where in the home materials, tools or supplies can be kept. Also be sure to have a system for cleaning up debris and trash – both at the end of each day, as well as after project completion. Don’t let things pile up, and be sure the remodeler treats your home with respect, too.
6. Temporary Lifestyle Adjustments
For large remodeling projects, homeowners may be without access to their kitchen or bathroom for an extended period of time. Create appropriate, temporary lifestyle adjustments by having the right supplies on hand and moving things around if necessary.
7. Take Precautions
Avoid risks of damage or accidents by taking the proper precautions. Sure, the remodeling contractor you hired is trustworthy and isn’t accident prone. But that doesn’t mean the fancy new laptop, or that glass artwork on the counter-top, should be left out in a high-traffic, remodeling, work site either.
Don’t turn into another home remodel horror story. Put the above tips to use and rest easy with a smooth, successful home remodeling project with the team here at Pinnacle Homes.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2016 and was updated in August 2020 for accuracy.