It all begins with a dream: cathedral ceilings, skylights, and room-sized closets. But, the dream may turn into a nightmare, unless you plan ahead.
Even before you consult an architect, you can begin sketching out your ideas and imagining your remodeled home. If you are adding or expanding a room, think about how the space will be used and how the changes will affect traffic patterns.
Also consider how new construction will affect the overall context of your home. An oversized addition may overwhelm your house or crowd a small lot.
A simple home design software program can help you visualize your project. This software can also better help your architect understand exactly what it is you want done to the space.
One of the best tools we have is our ability to see other people?s flops and successes. One of the best ways to get inspiration and to avoid pitfalls is to follow the experiences of other homeowners.
A number of Web sites offer online chronicles of home improvement projects, along with reply forms, message boards, and chat rooms that let you ask questions and get feedback. If you have a friend in town that recently remodeled their home, ask for the contractor?s name and contact information.
Whatever you do, don?t remodel on a whim, think about it and plan it out. If you don?t, your experience could be nightmare.
You?ll end up spend way too much money, it will take much longer than projected, and you probably won?t get what you had in mind. Be careful and plan out your design with a professional and make sure you get exactly what you ask for.
Although you may dream of having a spacious new addition, the project may not make sense if you plan to sell your house in a few years. A luxury bathroom can price your house beyond the values in your neighborhood.
Some projects, such as vinyl siding on a Queen Anne Victorian, will actually decrease the value of your home. Moreover, your own family?s needs may be very different in a few years so make sure the plans fit your future.
Even the best-laid budgets can go bust. Chances are, your remodeling project will cost more than you expect.
Before you set your heart on high-end ceramic tile, find out how much you have to spend and make sure you have a cushion against cost overruns. For must-have items that could wipe out your savings account, explore home improvement loans and other financing options.
Unless you plan to take on the entire remodeling project by yourself, you?ll need to hire helpers. Naturally, you?ll want to make sure that the folks who work for you are qualified, licensed, and properly insured.
Finding the best team for your remodeling project goes beyond a simple reference check. The architect who has won top awards may have a design vision very different from your own.
Whether you plan a simple carpentry job or a major project requiring the services of an architect and a general contractor, misunderstandings can lead to disaster. Do not begin remodeling without a written contract.
Make sure everyone agrees on the work that will be completed and how long it will take. Also be clear on the types of materials that will ? and will not ? be used.
In most parts of the world, a legal permit is required before you make structural changes to your home. The building permit assures that the remodeling project meets local building codes and safety regulations.
If you live in a historic district, the permit also assures that exterior changes to your home are in keeping with neighborhood guidelines. General contractors will usually take care of the paperwork, but smalltime workers may not.
There will be equipment breakdowns, supply shortages, miscommunications, and delays. Draw up a few friendly rules for workers.
Tell them where they may park their trucks and store their equipment. Remember that the larger the remodel, the greater the chances for frustrations.
Tom Selwick has worked as a general contractor remodeling homes for 27 years and has written hundreds of articles about roofing, awnings, siding, and roofing Utah.
Contact Info:
Tom Selwick
Tom Selwick09@gmail.com
http://www.WarburtonsInc.com
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