The 1948 Film “Mr. Blanding’s Builds His Dream House” is a humorous portrayal of what can happen during a renovation. Essentially, “If anything can go wrong, it will.”
But renovation and remodeling doesn’t have to be an ordeal or a “Comedy of Errors”. Whether it’s a DYI project, or whether you hire a professional, there are things to be aware of.
1. Prepare For Surprises. The older the structure and the length of time it’s been occupied means there might be some “surprises” when starting to remove and replace walls and floors. There could be Asbestos, old wiring, lead piping, that needs to be replaced, which may add to the overall time frame and cost. Reputable contractors and smart homeowners will anticipate sudden “surprises”, and factor them into the budget.
2. Noise, Dust and Inconvenience. There will be lots of it. Anticipate inconveniences and plan ahead for them. Even with the best dust protection, some will sneak through.
3. Delays. You can’t fool Mother Nature. Be careful when scheduling a renovation in winter or during a “rainy season”. Suppliers may have problems delivering materials.
4. It May Cost More. There are always surprises and pitfalls that can’t be accounted for in “the plan”. Make sure you have a realistic idea of the cost, and a solid budget estimate. Contractors know the price and quality of materials, but remember, it’s still an estimate. No one can price unexpected delays and setbacks. but established experienced contractors has the experience to minimize costs. It’s always better to do it right than to do it cheaply. Know your budget, and consult first, before making an agreement.
5. Fatigue. Anticipate short tempers and fatigue. Even when the project is on time and budget, there will be stress. Don’t add to the confusion by adding “new ideas” and “wants” for the project once things are underway.
