How to Make Your Next Renovation Project go Smoothly

How to Make Your Next Renovation Project go Smoothly

Home renovation can be a long, complicated process, especially if you’re redoing your entire house at one time. Even so, there are several excellent ways to streamline the process and ensure it all goes well and is completed on time. Here are three of the best ways to make your next big renovation project go as smoothly as possible.

Plan Your Project Fully Before Beginning

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when undertaking a major home project is to start in before a comprehensive plan is in place. Often, renovations require more changes than you first expect. For example, installing a hot tub on its own, sounds like a fairly simple project. However, you also need to take into account the effect that installing new plumbing or electrical supplies may have on the rest of your home. Be sure to plan out everything comprehensively so you don’t have to improvise or make last-minute changes in the middle of the project.

 

Read Reviews and Know What You Want

Before you buy parts, materials, or labor for a project, you should have a very concrete idea of exactly what you want. The best way to make this decision is to read online reviews of different parts and materials. This will help you develop an understanding of the pros and cons of different options, so you can make informed decisions about what to buy when the time comes. Be sure to get recommendations and reviews on different contractors as well.

 

Block Out Time for the Project

Nothing is as frustrating as trying to complete a major home or apartment project around the rest of your schedule. If at all possible, try to take time off from work and other obligations so you can complete the project in good time, without having to balance it with other activities. This step is somewhat less important if you’re having a contractor do the bulk of the work, but some time off may still be necessary, so you can adequately plan the project out with your contractor and make whatever other arrangements need to be made to facilitate it.

 

By sticking to these simple tips, you can ensure your next home renovation project comes off smoothly and quickly. As with many other things, the key to a successful renovation is proper planning. If you go into it with a fully-formed plan that covers all necessary steps, you’ll find the renovation to be fairly easy.

Five DIY Improvements to Improve Your Home’s Value

Improving the quality and style of your home can have a direct impact on its overall value. It’s essential to perform specific projects if a certain feature becomes worn down over time. If you want to boost your home’s value, there are a few DIY projects to do yourself to influence what the house is worth.

1. Reduce Energy Costs

One of the latest trends in home improvement is reducing energy costs for added savings throughout the year. Make changes that include installing Energy-Star appliances and insulating your roof or ceiling to maintain the internal temperature of the building in each season. Installing ceiling fans can also reduce your usage of the HVAC system during the summer months.

 

2. Install a New Fence

Fences add extra curb appeal to the house and also increase the level of privacy that is available on the property. Consider installing a fence that complements the architecture of the house and will also keep stray animals away from the yard. Wrought iron fences are ideal for Spanish Colonial or a white picket fence for an older style house. There are also DIY vinyl fence installation packages available for most suburban-type homes.

 

3. Remove Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings are not only considered an eyesore but can also be hazardous and unsafe for residents when they contain asbestos. Set aside a weekend to soften the texture and scrape the material off in various rooms of the home. Creating a smooth surface will update the building and will keep your family’s health safe.

 

4. Install a Backsplash

Installing a backsplash is an ideal project for those who have precision with laying tiles and enhancing the visual appeal of the kitchen. Choose a neutral or decorative color shade and style that will continue to look contemporary for many years to come.

 

5. Resurface Concrete

Your home’s concrete is one of the main features outside of your property and needs to be refreshed every few years. You can resurface concrete and even choose a different color or add a cobblestone finish to create a beautiful design that increases the curb appeal of the setting.

 

Performing improvements on the interior and exterior of your residential property can allow you to create an attractive setting that sells once it’s listed on the market. By performing a few DIY projects, you can make a minor investment that pays off and allows you to make more of a profit once you find a buyer.