Home renovations are a great opportunity to put your own stamp of style on your home, and perhaps increase property value and desirability. Even without any structural changes, the right renovations can add some extra value if you can bring new life or purpose to a space in your home. Whatever your home renovation plans are, there are some things that should be a priority when you are making changes to your home. Here are the top seven that we think you should bear in mind when you are making renovations.
Planning – Fail to Plan and You are Planning to Fail
Before you start buying supplies or choosing shades of paint, you should have a plan in place for you to follow as you make your renovations. This isn’t just a blueprint for your aesthetic changes, but should also include timings and itineraries of equipment and consumables. When you start to feel under pressure or overwhelmed, this plan will help keep you grounded.
Preparation – Get Everything You Need, Where You Need It
You should split your project into different phases, and prepare for each one individually. Before you start any renovation, you need to make sure you have everything you need, and enough of it. Having to down tools and go out for more supplies will cost you time and interrupt your workflow. Ensure you have all the equipment you need, and plenty of paint, paste, and paper.
Risk Assessment – Know Your Hazards and How to Avoid Them
During planning, as well as before you start to work, you should stop and assess the risks. At the planning stages, this can involve more in-depth risk assessment, such as structural concerns, plumbing and wiring demands, and personal protective equipment. When working on any building, particularly older structures, you may encounter some common electrical problems that you should be aware of and have a plan in place to deal with.
Communication – To Work Effectively, You Need Open Discussion
When working with others, communication is important. When you are renovating and decorating, communication is essential. Talk through the day’s plan with the people you are working with. Start the day off with a site meeting – complete with a cup of tea – to talk through the work you are going to do together. Make sure the communication remains open, and that your small team can discuss any concerns or ideas they have.
Logistics – Timing is Everything When Space is Limited
An important part of the planning process will be timing events and estimating the time tasks will take. The different phases of your renovation may require different and equipment and supplies, and space is always at a premium when redecorating. Plan deliveries and resupply trips carefully to save time and money.
Execution – It isn’t What You Do, But the Way That You Do It
It isn’t enough to plan the when and where of a project; you need to plan the how too. Your renovation may require you to learn some new skills or attempt tasks for the first time, and poor execution may have lasting effects on your décor and design. Practice a little first with non-essential materials, especially if you are using power tools.
Limitation – Hire Professionals When a Job is Too Big or Complex
The most important priority is to know your limits and rely on professional help when the task demands it. Professionals cost money, so plan carefully when to call them in and when to do it yourself. If you have to get their help later in your build, your budget will skyrocket from the unplanned costs.
Making home renovations doesn’t have to be stressful, and it can be a lot of fun if you follow our advice and make sure that these seven things are a priority. With a level head and a plan in place, anything is possible.
