6 Guidelines to Consider When Thinking About Remodeling
Whether your home is new or older, the likelihood that you will want to make changes to fit your lifestyle or personal taste will eventually creep into your mind. When thinking about remodeling, there are several things to consider. Most people start with, should I remodel or move? Will a remodel be cost effective? Should I do the work myself, or hire a contractor? All great questions to think about. Here are some guidelines to help when thinking about remodeling for the first time.
Planning Can Save Time and Money
Start gathering pictures of styles that appeal to you, fixtures you like and color palettes that you favor. Be sure to match your tastes to your budget. This will help you stay on track and keep the momentum moving forward.
DYI or Contractor
If you are confident in your abilities as a handyman/woman, then certainly you can save a great deal of money tackling small remodeling projects on your own. However, large jobs like basements, kitchens and master baths, can be challenging if you are a first timer. Hiring a good contractor takes some diligence. Find one with good references. Check to make sure they are a member with NARI – National Association of the Remodeling Industry http://www.nari.org/. Checking that they have a good standing with the BBB is also smart.
Visit Current Work
Pictures don’t always tell the whole truth. Ask the contractor’s you are considering if you can visit a current work site to see firsthand how they operate. You will gain valuable insight about how the contractor maintains cleanliness, organization and safety on the job.
Get It In Writing
The best laid plans are worthless without having a solid contract. A detailed contract will help everyone involved keep within budget and stay on time for completion. Be sure the contract includes the right address, start date, completion date, and a detail of what is and is not going to be done.
The Scout Law of “Being Prepared”
Know in advance that living in a construction zone comes with a variety of complexities. Living without major appliances, like those in your kitchen, can be a challenge at meal times. You will minimize inconvenience by establishing a make shift kitchen away from the construction zone. Include a refrigerator and microwave oven, so you can continue to make light meals at home.
Protect Your Precious Possessions
Remodeling will effect most every room in the house no matter how hard you or your contractor try to contain the mess that goes with construction. Put away pictures and artwork, store and pack away valuables before work starts. Cover items that can’t be removed; for example, chandeliers, pianos and electronics. This will save these items from the dust ball that is inherent with remodeling or even possible damage.
Beginning with these guidelines, when thinking about remodeling, will help you stay on budget and hopefully minimize the stress level.