5 Of The Best Construction Tips For Your House Renovation

Buildings are not considered to be living things, yet they do have a lifespan. They are expected to be usable, functional and safe for a certain number of years. But buildings  are subject to weather events, wear and tear of materials, damage by natural causes such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, or falling trees.

To keep them in good condition, you have to maintain and care for them. It’s important to recognize signs of damage and take prompt action to prevent large-scale deterioration.

Besides damage, there could be other reasons why people choose to repair or renovate or even completely demolish a building. Aesthetics, financial or commercial reasons, family issues, urban planning and environmental factors are some of the factors involved. In this sense, your home is a living entity that has to adapt to its occupants’ requirements and choices.

Whatever the rationale behind your plan to renovate your house, it’s important to ensure that the project proceeds smoothly and efficiently. The new construction must, in every way, be worth the time, money and effort spent on it. It has to be durable and secure enough to last for a long time going forward.

When you think of renovation, the basic idea is to enhance the functionality and the look of your home. In some cases, you may not undertake a full renovation, but choose to work on parts of it such as the kitchen, restrooms or living areas. The project may be launched to increase or transform spaces, create a new extension or loft, demolish parts that you no longer use, or create a patio or garden. You may want to recondition your old roof to make the building more energy efficient, improve its looks or give it a new lease of life.

As with any project, it’s smarter to execute it with the help of a trained, experienced and reputed professional. This is most important if the renovation is on a large scale, and may be beyond the capabilities of the average DIY enthusiast.

1. Take stock: Before you launch the project, spend enough time and effort in analysis. Understand why you want/need to renovate - is it for aesthetic or functional reasons, or a combination of both? Is this going to be a long-term investment or a temporary fix? Are you in a good place financially, and do you have the time to supervise the work? Get information from trusted sources about quality materials, and don’t forget to factor in waste removal and responsible disposal from the work-site.

2. Research : This project has to be approached with all the seriousness it deserves. Have a tentative budget in your mind, keeping it slightly flexible. Ensure that you select a local professional who has successfully completed projects like yours. Start well ahead, and get information about likely contractors from trustworthy sources. Create a shortlist, based on your requirements and budget. Make sure they have a street address, legitimate business and landline phone number. Research new materials, technology and design innovations so that you can gain additional benefits from the renovation.

3. Firm up on a Timeline: This has a bearing on the entire project. Delays can cause cost overruns in terms of labor and managing the project. You may have to move your family out into a hotel, and this has to be factored into your budget. If the project takes longer than estimated, it can cost you an additional sum. While creating your timeline, do it along with your contractor and team. They will provide accurate details, but keep the timeline slightly flexible to provide for any unexpected events.

4. Value- Add: Any renovation project should be able to enhance the value of your property. Avoid vanity projects, or those that you undertake for temporary reasons, or on impulse, just because it’s the current trend. Sometimes, people launch a home renovation project just to keep up with the Joneses. If your neighbors have just had their kitchen or bathrooms done, there’s no compulsion for you to immediately match their actions. Keep the curb appeal of your property firmly in mind. You wouldn’t want your home to stick out like a sore thumb in the midst of a bunch of similar looking homes. Study modern technology advances such as solar heating, metal roofing, smart homes, natural or green roofs and more.

5. Paperwork: It’s very important to ensure that you get all the documentation done before you begin the project. If you live in a heritage building, this is crucial. You will need to get the necessary permissions and licenses. Contemporary buildings that are being renovated also require certain compliances. You will have to get permissions for plumbing, electricals or other works according to your local regulations. Ensure that the building contractors have the necessary licenses to undertake the work they will do. Check their insurance and workers’ compensation papers too in case of any unfortunate accident on your premises.

Other than these 5 tips, here are a few more to keep in mind. Inform your neighbors about potential disturbance. Keep your kids and pets out of the way when work goes on. Store your valuables in a safe place away from the work-site. Creating a new home should give you peace and pleasure, with minimal tension, stress and anxiety.