With warmer weather just weeks away, now is the time to start planning for those home improvement projects you’ve been thinking about. Large project or small, every renovation task requires time, labor, materials, money and patience. Following a few simple guidelines can turn what seems like a major undertaking into an achievable goal.
Prioritize your plans
Looking around your home, you may see enough potential places in need of attention to populate an entire to-do list of projects. Obviously, you can’t do it all at once, so it pays to outline what are the most critical and logical projects to start with. If you make that to-do list, highlight which ones are most important to get done this season. From there, you can start planning how you will allot time and money to see them to fruition.
Budget sensibly
Whether you’re fixing up your long-term living space or thinking about selling, renovation is an investment, and as with any budget you need to know in advance what the costs will be. Take the time to research average costs for materials and labor in your area, seek out estimates and quotes, and compare. Above all, be realistic about what you’d like to spend to complete the project and what you’re able to spend in the event of unforeseen circumstances. You’re embarking on an improvement that you want to last, so remember that when looking for the best prices not to undercut yourself by loading up on cheap materials.
Make a schedule
While managing your budget, also keep in mind how long it will likely take to complete your project or projects. The bigger the task, the more time it will take. You may want it done now, but short of a magic wand, it’s going to need a schedule that keeps you or a contractor on task while being flexible enough for contingencies. Don’t cut corners just to complete a project you won’t be happy with just to meet a hard deadline. Give yourself time to get it done right.
Get the permits
Remember when planning a renovation that will change the exterior dimensions of your home and/or its proximity to neighboring properties or public rights of way to obtain the requisite local building permits. Save yourself a potential headache by making sure your project is feasible before you get started.
Be safe
If you are doing the work yourself or having contractors perform renovations to your living space, try to minimize the impact on yourself and your loved ones by adhering to all safety protocols. Get the work done while keeping everyone out of harm’s way.
Ask the pros
Contractors are the experts in the field you need, so take the time to research who you think has the top skills, the right price and the best customer reputation in your area. And even if you intend to undertake a project yourself, know your limits and when to ask for the help of a professional. There’s no shame in getting help if you run into a problem.
Fischer Lumber Co. offers a wide assortment of lumber, construction materials, cabinets, windows, doors and more for all of your home renovation needs. Come see us today at 210 N. Shamrock Street in East Alton.