Beginners Tips For Home Renovation

"Here are some tips to help prepare you for your home renovation project, these tips will save you both time and money.

Hiring contractors
Don't just go for the cheapest contractor you find you also need to consider the contractors experience, communication skills, quality of work and availability. Remember if a jobs is done right the first time it should last for many years, poor workmanship will lead to extra costs as you find someone to fix the mistakes of the previous contractor. Also don't be afraid to ask contractors for references, these reference should be clients the contractor has done work for in the past. Contact these reference and ask them any questions or concerns you may have about the contractor, most people are happy to help you avoid hiring a dodgy contractor or finding one that's great as they were once in a similar position to yourself.


Be prepared for unexpected additional costs
Save aside some room in your budget for any unexpected costs, while most tradesmen will do their best to provide an accurate quote sometimes thing pop up that are just out of their control. An example of this would be when a certain type timber you have ordered is out of stock, they can get the timber you requested but the wait is going to be 30 days, you may need the work carried out immediately so timber needs to be ordered elsewhere at a higher price.


Expect the project to run overtime
If you are not living in your home whilst it is being renovated don't plan to move back in the day after the expected completion date. Things can and do go wrong, you don't want to be stuck without anywhere to stay while a project is still being finished. Depending on the amount of work being carried out allow at least a few days for things to run overtime. You should also test out all workmanship before moving back in as it would be a major pain to move back home only to find you have no hot water or a problem with the electricity.

Don't assume green alternatives are more expensive
When you are getting quotes for your renovations you may be asked about green alternatives. Don't immediately think that these alternatives will cost you more money. Often there is government rebates for choosing a green option and in the case of things like solar panels the initial price may seem expensive but they will pay themselves of in the long run.

Get your hands dirty
The best way to save money is to do some of the work yourself. Things like painting can easily be done, all you need to do is buy some drop sheets, brushes and a roller. For those that are a little more adventurous classes can be taken in basic home renovation to teach you things like tiling, plastering and floor sanding. Once you are shown how to do these things don't be afraid to have a go yourself, just take your time and remember everything you learn and you'll be surprised at what you can achieve."