Renovation is on the mind of a lot of people this summer, as the price for materials has finally leveled out to something more affordable: but what renovations should you do, and how? Whether this is your first renovation project in five years or ever, it’s important to plan ahead.
These are seven tips to help renovate your home how you want to.
Moisture is one of the most corrosive materials on Earth. It’s vital that you take the time to pick materials that are able to keep water out of them so that they’ll avoid rot, cracking, and other issues. Items like a damp roof membrane, waterproof paint and sealant, and a great roof will keep as much moisture out as possible while also allowing your property to look fantastic.
Plan what you’re going to do, how you’re going to do it: and when you’ll be completing the project, as far ahead in time as you can. Planning ahead will save you from the
issue of keeping up with your project or the budget getting out of hand before you can complete what you want to do.
Budgeting is a big deal because poorly planned budgets will either leave you with subpar products because you tried to save so much money- or may stick you with debt from having spent far too much on a project you weren’t prepared for.
Damage can happen to any property, regardless of what you do to protect it.
Unfortunately, the signs can often be small enough that you don’t notice, from a thin crack in a brick wall to concrete that’s starting to chip in a thin line.
It’s vital that you fill cracks in concrete well before winter settles in and another
freeze-thaw cycle starts. Water getting into the cracks can corrode some, but freezing is
where it’s dangerous. Water expands as it freezes into ice and can make cracks far worse if it has the chance. It’s a better idea to take a moment and seal these cracks as soon as possible.
When you’re ready to do your renovations: pay attention to your timing. Not only are some renovations cheaper in the off-season, when there’s less demand and companies are more eager to make a sale, but you also want to be sure your renovations aren’t getting in the way of your life. For instance, if you plan on adding a pool to your home, you want to make sure to do it in early spring. This will allow you to use your pool for the whole summer and will help you avoid leaves and plant life falling into it while it’s getting built.
Stains and discoloration can age property and leave it feeling old and out of date. If you take the time to powerwash these areas, you’ll be able to knock a lot of the color and stains out, making them look fresh again.
This isn’t just for those looking up how to remove oil stains from driveways, but it can also help you remove dirt and pollen from siding and get gunk and vines off of brick and stone. A pressure washer can be cheap to rent, but if you want the job done right, it’s better to hire a professional instead.
Insulation can make a huge difference in whether your property stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. While you’re making changes and updating your property, take the time to heavily insulate and update your property. This will eventually give you the chance to lower your heating and cooling bills and save money in the long run. The best portions of your home to check are your roof, floorboards, and walls. Although it’s not always possible to add more insulation, if the current insulation in it is of bad quality: you can always replace it.
Before you make any large alterations to your property, it’s vital that you talk to your
HOA! Although there are many interior changes you can make without any trouble, it’s vital that you pay attention to what your HOA wants for your exterior. If you go against their rules, you could place a heavy fine on your back, on top of having to go back and eventually undo the work you did. If you want something that’s against their guidelines, many will allow you to petition or talk to other homeowners about it to get permission, but it really depends on the area you’re in and what your personal HOA is like.
Your Home Should Be Everything You Need of It
Whether you’re renovating a new property to bring it up to your personal tastes, or you’re renovating an investment property before you can sell: make sure to follow these tips. You deserve a home that suits your needs.