Considering a home renovation this year? It’s no secret that remodeling your home is a huge project to undertake. The hardest part of a home renovation is getting started, but we have a list of tips to help you get started and avoid the most common home renovation mistakes.
Mistake #1: Not Planning Ahead
We all know how easy it is to procrastinate, but this is one area where you can’t afford to, especially if you’re trying to stick to a renovation budget. Before you start any renovation project, it’s important to have a plan. This includes knowing what you want to change, how much you’re willing to spend, and the timeline for the project. Having a plan will help you avoid making costly mistakes and will help the project go more smoothly. With the rise in housing costs, delayed shipments, and supply-chain issues, it’s always best to plan as far ahead as possible. Getting ahead of schedule is one of the best ways to avoid renovation mistakes. Because of pandemic-related labor shortages and backlogs, we recommend beginning to plan your home renovation at least a year in advance.
When beginning to plan your renovation, there are many factors to consider. Here’s a list of top priorities to keep in mind:
- Examine the entire project to address any structural or safety issues.
- Draw a layout of the floor plan to ensure correct space planning.
- Research your contractors early and contact professional installers.
- Take on big projects like flooring and architectural details first.
- Think about lighting.
- Choose appliances and furniture early in the process.
Mistake #2: Choosing Non-Durable Materials
One of the most common renovation mistakes to avoid is using non-durable materials. Although it’s tempting to save money by cutting corners and opting for less expensive materials (especially when you’re on a budget), you’ll end up paying more in the long run. Select durable, high-quality materials to ensure a long lifespan for your home renovation project.
Prioritize where you want to spend the most money. For instance, first-rate kitchen countertops, high-quality windows, and quality flooring are important for the overall structure of your design.
Mistake #3: Being Too Trendy
Any professional designer can tell you that there’s a difference between a fresh, updated look and a fad renovation. For instance, neutral colors and quartz or granite countertops are timeless classics that will never go out of style (and up your resale value!)
Shag carpets and entryway chalkboards might seem all the rage now, but will you be sick of them in a few years? Avoid unrealistic expectations and stick to what you know you’ll love for years to come.
Mistake #4: Trying to DIY Everything
We get it—nothing quite gives you a thrill like when you’ve completed a home renovation project on your own. But some tasks—like countertop installations—are better left to the professionals.
Chances are, you’re not planning an entire gut renovation. Maybe you’re thinking of painting walls, hanging wallpaper, or moving furniture around—these are all prime examples of DIY tasks that you can confidently undertake. Structural changes, however, like installing new granite countertops in the kitchen remodel or expanding the master bathroom with a stone bathtub surround are a little trickier.
It’s best to consult a professional like an interior designer, flooring expert, or general contractor before you end up in over your head. Trust us—spend the money now on quality craftsmanship so you don’t have to fix any issues down the road.
Mistake #5: Sacrificing Function for Form
One design rule to remember when planning your next home renovation is that form follows function. Make sure your style blends with the natural architecture of your home. Remember, seemingly small details like the placement of doors, windows, and outlets are crucial to the overall flow of your home design.
Focus on the details. Pantry pullouts, toe-kick storage, and hidden kitchen appliances might seem small in the grand scheme of things, but they can make a world of difference in your everyday home life. There’s always a way to make a functional design beautiful.
Ready for a Kitchen Renovation?
If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, stone fixtures could be the perfect way to elevate your home’s value and aesthetic. Find high-quality quartz and granite countertops in Twin Falls, Idaho at Classic Stoneworks. We carry a large selection of natural and composite stones to help take your home redesign project to the next level. Call us today to schedule a meeting with one of our drafting specialists who can help bring your vision to life.