Common Renovation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Common Renovation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Planning a home renovation in Toronto involves careful consideration. Even simple remodels require detailed planning to ensure everything runs smoothly. Consulting with experts can help you avoid overlooking important details and stay within budget. Below, we'll discuss some typical renovation mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

FAILURE TO DO PROPER BUDGETING

Budgeting for a renovation project is tough because of the many moving parts. If this is your first renovation project, consider asking your contractor for budgeting tips. Whatever your budget, you should have 10% of the cost as a buffer.

EXPECTING EVERYTHING DURING YOUR HOME RENOVATION TO GO ACCORDING TO THE PLAN

Planning is essential, but sometimes even the best plans go wrong. Chances of unexpected issues arising are higher when you are dealing with an older house. For example, it may be impossible to know whether the walls have fungi before demolishing them or if the subfloors are too damaged.

Unforeseen issues are less likely to spring up in new houses, but some aspects may still not go according to your plan. So always leave room for errors and uncertainties.

HIRING A PROFESSIONAL THAT'S NOT A GOOD FIT

Home renovations are very personal. With so many professional support options available, you’ll want to work with an individual or team that aligns well with your vision and objectives. This will help you craft a truly beautiful space and enjoy the process from start to finish.

NOT ASKING HOME RENOVATION CONTRACTORS ENOUGH QUESTIONS

It is okay to ask your contractor as many questions as possible until you feel satisfied by the explanation they give. Do not leave out any question, thinking it is dumb. Remember, you will give them a lot of money and should know exactly how it will be spent.

CHANGING YOUR MIND MID-PROJECT

Avoid second-guessing yourself once the project starts. Simple changes like changing the location of an electrical outlet in your kitchen for a new toaster may seem like a simple add-on, but it is not. Changes, even the smallest of them, have cost implications, and they will mess up with timelines.

DOING TOO MUCH BY YOURSELF

Most people do not understand the work that goes into renovations. Although renovations make for great DIY projects, you should avoid this common mistake because once you start you are likely to realize you do not have the time, skill, and even the tools necessary for the job. You should also consider separating the job (such as doing kitchen remodeling first and then doing bathroom remodeling once done).

NOT DOING DUE DILIGENCE WHEN HIRING THE CONTRACTOR

Not every contractor who is licensed is capable of doing a good job. The contractor you go for should have experience in the exact task at hand. He should be licensed and registered with the relevant professional bodies and he should be bonded. You should also insist he has workman’s compensation insurance for the crew. Do proper vetting by asking for referrals and reading reviews and testimonials.

SKIMPING ON QUALITY

Major renovations are a one-every-few-years item, and so when they come due, you should focus on crafting spaces that will endure the years of use ahead. Focus on high quality labor and materials and enjoy not having to busy yourself with repairs, replacements, and other headaches over time.

NOT SEARCHING YOUR CONTRACTOR
The best way to make sure you’re getting a quality contractor is to do your research. Get quotes from at least three contractors. If one is significantly lower than the others, it’s probably too good to be true. If you find a contractor you want to hire, get references from their most recent clients and make sure they’re fully licensed and insured before proceeding.

CHOOSING AESTHETICS OVER FUNCTION
Take this as an opportunity to assess the state of your home and find out if there are any basic structural fixes that you need to work on during your renovation. A brand-new floor isn’t going to last long if you have a roof that leaks. If you discover that your pipes or wiring need to be replaced, ensure that work is completed before you renovate, as you don’t want to rip apart your newly renovated room after the fact.

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Prioritize what you spend your money on by thinking about which fixtures you’ll interact with. You’ll notice and appreciate the difference of a quality cabinet or faucet more than a decorative tile.