Thinking of remodeling in 2011? Here are some tips to do it right. Check back for product recommendations all year round!
1) Plan before you start. Think through what you want to attain before hiring a contractor or doing work yourself. The most successful projects are planned fully before executing ANY steps. That will create a seamless transition from start to end and there should be few surprises.
2) Research products. Granite is a great surface but may not be the best one for your counters. Check out the appliance and fixture options. The more you know the more pleased you will be.3) Think "green". Use dimmers for lighting, follow EPA suggestions for plumbing fixtures, think energy savings on appliances and windows. Can you add a solar heating system? Use windows to better heat and cool a home naturally? Recycle what comes out of your home and you'll feel great about not dumping the debris in a land fill. Habitat for Humanity will take cabinetry, doors and other items that are in good condition.
4) Allow plenty of time. Delays do happen. If you don't have everything selected in advance, discover wiring or plumbing problems as you start demolition, you might add weeks to your project. Plan for delays and you won't be stressed. A great idea is to develop a time line and checklists. They keep everyone focused, on time, and allow for changes in an easy going manner.
5) Have a backup space. Create a second bath/kitchen/living space for the duration of your project. It's not practical to move out when updating a kitchen or bath, but without a plan for a space that serves as a backup, things could get difficult! Be sure you can be safe walking through or around the areas under construction.
6) Draw the plans. Ever hear of people completing a great remodel but couldn't get the furniture in? It happens. Even if you draw a plan on graph paper where 1 square = 1 foot, you can have a sense of the finished space and not make errors due to dimensions. Too tight of a walkway can ruin a kitchen, and not being able to move around a space with new furniture is upsetting.
7) Hire a Pro. Even if you consult for an hour or two, using a professional to help with space planning, lighting design, cabinetry and surfaces, is worth the cost. Mistakes that you make can be expensive, and using a professional will avoid that cost.
8) Know the trends. If you plan a large scale remodel, be aware of design trends. Using a specific fixture, finish material or product that will be outdated doesn't add value to your project. Appliances and electronics change frequently and being aware of the trends will guide your selections. Stay abreast of 'green' and energy savings trends - and local rebate programs - for direct savings to you.
9) Determine value. Real estate comps in your area can guide you as to the value you may see with a kitchen or bath remodel. You may not want to spend $15K on a basement remodel if there is no corresponding increase in value to your home. However, if you do not intend to sell your property, or don't care what the return will be, then don't be concerned!
10) Know your budget. While this is often the most challenging area to determine, it's second to developing a plan. If you start a project and buy as you go, you may run out of funds to complete. An expensive range may be ideal, but better to save money for the sink!
7) Hire a Pro. Even if you consult for an hour or two, using a professional to help with space planning, lighting design, cabinetry and surfaces, is worth the cost. Mistakes that you make can be expensive, and using a professional will avoid that cost.
8) Know the trends. If you plan a large scale remodel, be aware of design trends. Using a specific fixture, finish material or product that will be outdated doesn't add value to your project. Appliances and electronics change frequently and being aware of the trends will guide your selections. Stay abreast of 'green' and energy savings trends - and local rebate programs - for direct savings to you.
10) Know your budget. While this is often the most challenging area to determine, it's second to developing a plan. If you start a project and buy as you go, you may run out of funds to complete. An expensive range may be ideal, but better to save money for the sink!