We all have a corner of the house that we want to remodel, but to make it look good we have to prepare. To plan a vacation we look for information on where to stay, what attractions to visit, what airline has the best deal, what the costs are and when is the best time to travel.
We also have to prepare for a remodel, especially if you want to remodel this year. By following the steps below, you will be better prepared for your remodel and achieve the result you have always wanted.
- Be Calm
Preparing for a remodel takes time and when done lightly, you can miss very important steps that can turn into surprises that can affect your work schedule and budget.
- Expand your knowledge
Knowing the details of your remodel is very important. Let’s say you are going to remodel your facade.
What type of windows are most appropriate? Fixed glazing is all the rage, but if you don’t have air conditioning, then the wind won’t circulate and the house will be hot. But, did you know that there is a style of window called “projected” which is a fixed glass that opens to the front, allowing the wind to flow? Another factor you should be aware of is the thickness of the metal the window is made of, they are not all the same and if you want a security window you will want the thickest metal.
Before starting with your remodeling, you should know the alternatives you have in the market and which one is the most appropriate for you.
- Seek help
If you need help or don’t know what to do, seek help from a professional with experience in the subject you want to know about: electrical, bathroom remodeling, plumbing, architecture, design, fascia, siding, etc. Bringing an expert to the house for guidance does not cost a lot of money, but it will help us to have a clearer idea of what we need to do when remodeling. This leads us to our next step.
- Put the design on paper
Making a detailed design will help the contractor understand and visualize what he will have to quote, especially when it comes time to build. Depending on the complexity of the remodel, you may need a hand-drawn “sketch”, 3D design or architectural plan. If you have ideas that you have gotten on Pinterest or the internet, don’t be afraid to show them to the professionals who will be quoting.
- Create a budget
Let’s take the opportunity to ask the expert for an approximate cost of the work or better yet a quote. It is always important to have several quotes for the same job in order to have a better idea of the budget you should have for the remodeling. Make sure that the quote is itemized so that nothing is left out, and you can have better control of the budget if any changes arise.
Once you have established the budget, you should have a separate reserve fund for any setbacks that may arise during the project. In any remodeling there are always surprises along the way, like a pipe inside the wall that we wanted to demolish, and now we have to relocate it. Then that relocation costs money. But thanks to the reserve fund, we will be able to afford this work without affecting the budget.
- Find a suitable contractor
You should take the time to find the right contractor for you. Do your research, ask questions, consult, and seek references.
- Get a contract orientation
Whether the remodeling job is simple or complicated, a contract can save you money. Ask the contractor to draw one up and deliver it to you, otherwise prepare one yourself. Never start a job or put down a deposit without a signed contract.
