Want to renovate your property but don’t know where to start, right? Well, you’re not the only one. Many homeowners plan a home remodel without knowing what to expect. They regret not having a plan only after they suffer irreversible or expensive renovation mishaps.
Without proper preparation, the home remodeling process in Fox Island, Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, University Place, Steilacoom, WA, and nearby locations can be full of disappointments, unforeseen expenses, and issues that make it much more complex. So before you go down the twists and turns of the remodeling route, here are 15 things you should know about where to start renovating or remodeling a house.
Things to Know Before a Home Remodel?
Set a Budget
One of the first things you must do before starting any home renovation is to set a realistic budget.
Leading home remodel experts in Fox Island, WA, reveal that this will help you determine what projects and specifications you can afford to take on and also help keep expenses under control during the remodeling process. When setting your budget, be sure to account for the cost of materials and labor.
Creating a Temporary Living Plan:
Depending on the extent of your remodel, you may need to make temporary living arrangements during construction. You need to plan ahead to minimize disruptions to your daily life.
Choose the Right Contractor
Needless to say, if you plan on doing any major renovations, you will need some help from a credible home remodel contractor like Tracy’s Quality Painting Inc.
Top home remodel specialists in University Place, WA, state that choosing the correct contractor is paramount to ensuring a smooth remodeling process. Before finalizing a company, get multiple bids from different contractors in the industry and ask each one for references from previous customers. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, make sure you have a detailed contract in place that highlights the scope of the project and sets expectations for both parties.
Ask for References
As mentioned earlier, don’t be shy about asking for references. A dependable contractor like Tracy’s Quality Painting Inc. will have no issue providing references or a copy of their liability insurance. If your request is declined, it may indicate a lack of trustworthiness on their part.
Besides asking for references, you should also look up client reviews for their business on third-party websites. After all, the last thing you want is to wind up with a home remodeling contractor who does shoddy work or doesn’t have insurance, so make sure you do proper research.
Managing Expectations:
Home remodeling projects can be complex and may encounter delays or unforeseen challenges. Top home remodel contractors in Gig Harbor, WA, recommend staying flexible and being prepared to adjust your expectations as needed throughout the process.
Get Your Permits
Before you start your renovation, you might need to get permits from your local government, depending on the nature and scope of your project.
Failure to do so could result in costly fines and penalties or even stop your remodeling. Consult your contractor if you’re unsure whether you need a permit.
Prepare Your Home
Once you’ve picked your home remodel contractor and arranged all the permits, it’s time to prepare your property for the big renovation.
Leading home remodel experts in Port Orchard, WA, reveal that this process typically includes clearing out closets and removing carpeting or other flooring. It’s also important to ensure that any valuables or furniture remaining on the property during the remodeling process are properly protected from dust and debris.
Choose Materials
One of the most exciting parts of any home remodeling process is picking out materials such as cabinets, flooring, fixtures, etc.
But before you rush off to your nearby home improvement store, take some time to research and choose materials that not only align with your budget but also match your personal style preferences.
Once you have an idea of what you want, make sure you get samples to see how they look in person before making any concrete decisions.
Setting a Realistic Timeline:
Establish a timeline for your project, considering factors such as the scope of work, material availability, and contractors’ schedules. Leading home remodel contractors in Steilacoom, WA, it’s important to be realistic about the time needed for each phase.
Pack Up Your Things
To ensure your remodeling project goes smoothly, tidy up and declutter the area where the renovations will take place. Make a pass through the area and pack up anything that’s in the way. This also reduces the risk of trips and falls, so packing up is a must.
Look out for any wires poking out that could be potential trip hazards, and make sure to tuck them away to keep them out of the way. Your home remodel contractors will appreciate working in a clean, decluttered space.
Home Security Measures:
Top home remodel contractors in Fox Island, WA, suggest taking necessary steps to secure your home during renovation, including installing temporary locks or alarm systems to protect your belongings.
Consider Your Pets
When remodeling your home, it’s important not to forget about your pets. If they’re going to stay home while the work is being done, consider their needs. Have one of your family members stay in the room with them to ensure they aren’t stressed.
Schedule a Cleanup
Leading home remodel experts in Port Orchard, WA, reveal that the last thing you want is to leave your property in disarray, as that can be dangerous. Professional contractors at Tracy’s Quality Painting Inc. will always clean up before leaving your home.
Check the Weather
While it may seem unnecessary initially, checking the weather forecast for your renovation or remodeling days is a fairly important step.
Even if you’re going to renovate during the summer or spring, you can’t expect the perfect climate for the duration of your remodeling. That’s why you should check both short-term and long-term forecasts before booking your renovations.
Post-Remodel Maintenance and Care:
Take care of your newly remodeled space by following recommended maintenance guidelines for materials and finishes. Leading home remodel contractors in Steilacoom, WA, reveal that regular cleaning and upkeep will help maintain the remodel’s beauty and functionality for years to come.
Final Takeaway
If you know a remodeling or renovation is on the horizon, contact the professionals at Tracy’s Quality Painting Inc. to pick out flooring, backsplash, countertops, and carpets. Our dedicated staff helps with all these factors when you sign up with us for your bathroom and kitchen remodel.
With more than 25+ years of experience and expertise, we’ve become known as a reliable, credible, and professional home remodel contractor in Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Steilacoom, University Place, Fox Island, WA, and nearby locations.
Contact us at (253) 858-8244 to schedule an appointment with our team today.
