Remodeling 101
7 Tips to Remodeling
So you are thinking about remodeling your Michiana home and don’t quite know where to start? Before you talk with a contractor or look for estimates, you should know what to expect. We have come up with a list of 7 tips to help guide you through the remodeling process. These tips will tell you what you can do and expect to ensure your remodel goes as smoothly as possible.
- Get the right tools
- Plan ahead
- Understand your existing limitations
- Call if you need a second opinion: 574-288-8630
1. Have a Vision
Before talking to a contractor, you should have a goal for what you would like out of your remodel. Do you want to expand your home, raise the value, update the style, or increase functionality? Whatever it is, make sure you have a vision of what you want. Then go over to claytonhoover.com/remodeling to get an estimate and talk with a contractor.
2. Allow Time
Once you have a good idea of what you would like out of your remodel, take some time to think about how realistic your goal is. Remodels are both costly and time-consuming. It’s important to plan your budget and know that the remodeling process itself might take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the size of the project.
3. Think About Long-Term Costs Before Short-Term Savings
When you are planning your budget, we recommend you think about long-term costs. You should never cut corners to lower costs. Roofing, for example, isn’t the most exciting thing to spend your budget on. However, if it is something your home needs, you should never go for a cheap option. At claytonhoover.com/residential-roofing you can see that opting for quality will last longer, protect your home from damage, and offers warranties. You can save money long-term with kitchen and bathroom remodels by choosing energy-efficient appliances and water-saving fixtures.
4. Be Flexible
You should go into your remodel with a budget, but do not expect to be firm on a set dollar amount. Whatever your budget is, you should try to have an extra 10% set aside for unexpected overages. Contractors might find things that aren’t up to code in your house or prices of supplies might have risen since you were given an estimate. Hand-in-hand with unexpected costs are timeline changes. It is difficult to exactly know how every job will play out. A remodel might cost more and take longer than you expect, but if you are willing to be flexible and work with the contractors, you’ll get your dream home.
5. Expect Some Inconvenience
Remodels aren’t always easy for homeowners. If you are getting your kitchen remodeled, you should plan on going out to eat or getting carry-out while construction is underway. If you have pets, you might need to limit where in the house they can go or have them stay somewhere else until the job is done. If you are getting an extensive remodel, you might need to rent a storage unit to move your belongings into. It is worth a few weeks of inconvenience to get your dream home. Know what to expect and communicate with your contractors on what you can do to help the job go quickly and smoothly.
6. Hire Local, Licensed Contractors
Look for contractors around South Bend and Mishawaka. Local contractors are easier to be in contact with throughout the remodel and to contact if problems develop in the future. They are also familiar with building codes in the Michiana area. Check out claytonhoover.com/about-us to see a trusted contractor with over 75 years of experience.
7. Be Excited
Relax and be excited! Your contractors know what they are doing. Trust the professionals and stay in contact with them throughout the process. Remodels can be stressful, but you should be excited to live in the perfect version of your home.
