Common Pitfalls Can Spell Doom for Home Remodeling Projects
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
As you begin a home improvement project, beware of some common pitfalls that can spell doom for your project.
The solution is to check contractor references carefully. Look for:
The solution is to review the estimate before the contractor starts. Consider whether you want to expand the project. If you are adding a new hardwood floor in the kitchen, does it make sense to replace the old hardwood floor in the adjacent hallway? Ask your contractor whether expanding the project makes sense. Include any new remodeling projects to the estimate and add it up!
Hiring the Wrong Remodeling Contractor
The remodeling contractor is one of the most important parts of any home improvement project. Hiring the wrong one can affect:- The budget
- The timing
- Your nerves!
The solution is to check contractor references carefully. Look for:
- Recommendations from friends, relatives, and neighbors
- Membership in local/national building and remodeling organizations
- A remodeling contractor who specializes in your type of home improvement project
Important Contractor Qualities
Good contractors will be happy to talk about the great kitchen design or bathroom remodeling project they created. When checking references, look for:- A responsive contractor who returns calls promptly and answers questions willingly
- Attention to detail in everything from kitchen cabinet and granite countertop installation to ceramic tile design.
Putting the Cart Before the Horse
Starting a project before all the planning and preparation is completed is another big pitfall. It's easy to get excited about ripping out your old kitchen cabinets, but it pays to plan first. Here are some tips:- Plan the kitchen design and put it in writing. This includes the layout of the kitchen cabinets, the type of kitchen sink and faucet, and whether you want a granite countertop or a laminate.
- Shop for products before the work starts. This includes kitchen cabinets, the kitchen sink, and all the other fixtures.
- Prepare your budget and create a checklist of decisions to be made.
Extra Work for the Contractor
Asking for extra work from the contractor after the project is started can really increase costs. This is the "While you are here" syndrome that can throw a remodeling project off course. Here's why:- Anything you ask the contractor to do is an addition to the contract and will cost more money.
- The costs can snowball.
- The changes to the kitchen design or other plan will add to your timeline.
- The changes may affect the ceramic tile and kitchen cabinet purchases you've already made.
The solution is to review the estimate before the contractor starts. Consider whether you want to expand the project. If you are adding a new hardwood floor in the kitchen, does it make sense to replace the old hardwood floor in the adjacent hallway? Ask your contractor whether expanding the project makes sense. Include any new remodeling projects to the estimate and add it up!
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