If you have never remodeled before or are taking on a big project, you may feel a little nervous. How much will it cost? How long will it take? Between the large expense and the excitement of a finished remodel, it’s hard not to feel a little anxious. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate your fears and make you better prepared for what is to come.
1. Noise. It will be continuous. Whining saws, scratching sheetrock sanders, thumping nail guns and compressors: in short, during business hours there is little peace or quiet. Find another place to nap and don’t count on working from home unless your home office is far away from the construction zone.
2. Successful highs. For you it may be the demolition of the ugly vinyl floors in your kitchen. For others it may be the installation of the carefully selected backsplash tile. Others still may feel thrilled only when they see sheetrock go in or get to relax when their project is completely done.
3. Multiple sighs. It may be that you just want to be done, or that you’re tired of answering so many questions. Or you may just be tired of having so many people in your house. Hang in there — remodeling fatigue will be short lived when you get to move back into your newly remodeled space.
4. The unexpected. If you expect anything, expect the unexpected. Asbestos, irregular framing, jerry-rigged wiring, incorrect plumbing, and more unexpected surprises are bound to arise. Count on finding something that was not anticipated, and you will be well prepared when it happens.
5. Change orders. These are used to document any new and/or changed work, along with added or reduced cost. Change orders can also be used to resolve allowances, which are placeholders in the budget for particular items. But most often change orders occur because of things that clients decide to add or change.
6. Delays. Snow falls, people get sick, cars break down, and sometimes the faucet ordered from the factory takes ten weeks instead of six. You and your contractor will likely be working from a schedule that assumes the world is a perfect place. It’s not, and knowing that will save you the headache when your schedule shifts a bit.
7. Decisions. Where should that outlet be? How high do you want the showerhead? Where do you want the cabinet hardware mounted? Oil-rubbed bronze or chrome or brushed nickel or satin nickel? Count on LOTS of questions that you’ll need to answer as your project proceeds. Just know that your selection of a contractor is the first of many you will make!
7 Things to Expect with Your Remodel
