Don’t ignore the planning stages!

If you are doing one room or an entire house, below are some items I see quite often.

The best way to a successful project is to have a clear and accurate plan of the work to be completed.
Before any work starts, do your research so you understand the basics. What materials and tools are needed? If you skip this part, there is a good chance you will make some costly mistakes.

Know you’re materials.
Home renovations can be expensive at times. “You get what you pay for” typically… Think about how long you intend on being in the home, 5 years? 10? Will the materials you have chosen last that long?

Going over Budget? Be careful how much your renovation will cost. Remember to account for building materials, labor, New appliances, and Light fixtures. Try and leave your self a contingency allowance. Finding old plumbing that needs replacement, poor wiring upgrades and other things you can’t see behind existing walls, and ceilings.

Don’t take on TOO much.
Realize the scope, Ie. If you’re remodelling a kitchen, a lot of the components won’t be ready for installation for 3-4 weeks.
Plan accordingly. Bathroom projects, Plumbing fixtures, tiling, decommission a bathroom  can take up to 2-3 weeks.

Make sure you’re design complements what your original house style is. Additions don’t need to be in the exact same style as the existing architecture, but choose something that complements it and will add resale value.

Appliance and furniture decor.
Do your research, know what you’re looking for. Appliances can be researched, specification information relayed to your contractor without spending anything.

Furniture decor.
Wait until you’re in the last stages, or have samples of wall/ ceiling colours, floor samples with you as you start to make these purchases.

Not ordering extra flooring
Have your accurate measurements, but allow for 20% overage for damage, off cutting, and angled areas which use up more materials.

Attention to details.
Consider your project carefully Ie. A kitchen: Pantry pull outs, toe kick, storage, and roll out features on appliances garages are just a few features that can make your kitchen amazing. Really try to think of all the details you need for your space.

Consider lighting and design help.
Consulting architects, designers and lighting specialists can make or break your project. They can look for issues that have been overlooked and can help you design great usage of lighting to create a useful, well lit environment that’s both pleasing and efficient.

Overbuilding.
Your project, finished should complement your neighborhood. Homes that are significantly different can look ungainly and may not give you a return on your hard earned investment that your looking for.

Manage your expectations.
Redoing your home can be messy, noisy and inconvenient even at the best of times so do your research before you begin your project. Consider the time of year and the work conditions for the company you have hired.

Knowing what to expect beforehand…. it can save a lot of headaches later.

And like always you can reach out to us at GTL Enterprises for all your home renovation needs!