|
| |
Reno Regrets
By L. Hilliard | JAN.01.08
Keep these factors in mind and don't leave anything to chance to minimize renovation problems. |
 |
|
You've decided to renovate. Perhaps you have a fantasy about doing a major renovation project together with your partner, picturing long days of bonding over various chores that will result in a lovely new kitchen, pride of ownership and a stronger relationship. Okay, it could happen. It's probably not likely, but possible. The reality of home renovation is that people usually love the results and hate the process. Some run into nightmare situations, others simply aren't prepared for the inevitable cost overruns, time overruns and many small headaches of renovating. To minimize the problems, be sure to keep these factors in mind and don't leave anything to chance:
Design magazines and websites are fabulous sources of ideas - but they are simply "jumping off” points". Don't assume that an oversized, solid copper sink illustrated in a cavernous farmhouse kitchen will work in your galley kitchen. Scale and practicality are just as important as appearance, so measure, walk through your space and really think about how - and if – you'll use each element you're considering.
A simple rule applies here. Estimate the time it should take to do the renovations; then double it. Estimate the cost of the renovations; then increase it by at least 25%. There are always unexpected situations - old pipes that need replaced in the wall, rewiring that's too complex for you to handle without professional help, the tile you wanted is out of production….even small changes or set-backs can add dollars and days to the most carefully considered plans. You can't change your mind half-way through the renovation and decide you don't have the money or the time, so build lots of wiggle room in at the beginning.
Renovations are messy, noisy and can be dangerous. Can you completely isolate the area that's being renovated? If not, be sure you have a place to live for the weeks of renovation. It's going to be disruptive, so take into consideration that, even if it's a living room renovation, there will be noise and dust while you try to cook, clean and live in the other rooms. Power and water may be off for a few days, so have a plan.
|
|
|
"Estimate the time it should take to do the renovations; then double it. Estimate the cost of the renovations; then increase it by at least 25%." "Don't skimp on the construction and finish – the devil is in the details. Professionals, from architects to designers, do renovations for a living. They will remember the details you won't even think about and they'll know the most talented people to hire for everything from plumbing to drywall." |
|
|
|
Many home improvements are stopped in their tracks because of problems with the municipality. Be sure you talk to the municipal authorities in your area. Ask about required building permits, building codes and any inspections that will be needed. If you start building a deck, then get a "cease and desist" order from the Zoning Board, you could wait months to get a permit before you can complete your project. You could also be unpleasantly surprised if your do-it-yourself wiring or plumbing isn't up to code.
In the haze of anticipation surrounding your anticipated renovation, don't forget that demolition comes first. Demolition means junk, and lots of it. Be sure to budget for dumpsters, clean-up crews and anything else needed to reduce the waste and restore order. It also helps to prevent angry calls from neighbors who want to know when you're getting rid of the old toilet in the front yard.
Don't skimp on the construction and finish – the devil is in the details. Professionals, from architects to designers, do renovations for a living. They will remember the details you won't even think about and they'll know the most talented people to hire for everything from plumbing to drywall. You will stay much closer to both your time and money budget if you allow a professional to handle things. Interview several, ask to see their licenses and follow up with provided references.
Following our suggestions will minimize stress - it won't eliminate it. Don't decide to renovate because little Junior MUST have a new bedroom of his own because the new baby is on its way in three months. You may find yourself rocking the cradle in a hotel room while renovation work still has the back wall torn out. Not good for Mommy, Daddy, Junior or the new little one! For less stress, DON'T combine home renovations with major life changes.
Most people will hit a few rough patches while renovating, but the pain is quickly forgotten because of the wonderful end results. If you go into renovating with realistic expectations, you'll weather the upsets just fine. And since you'll enjoy the results for years, it will be worth a few weeks or months of inconvenience.
|
| | By L. Hilliard | FOKaL Writer |
| [ JAN.01.08 ] |
  |
|
|