Considering a renovation in the New Year? Wondering where to start with your project and getting a good idea of what you need to do beforehand and during the process? Cowan Building has you covered with some great advice and tips to get your reno off to a dream start.

 

‘Tis the season for renovation dreaming! With many of us being trapped in our homes over the past few years and the thought of saving for a big international holiday fade, homeowners are planning upgrades and renovations in their droves. With saved money to spend and the desire to expand the home, upgrade it to multigeneration living, or even a new bathroom or kitchen, builders and tradesmen are in hot demand. This is only set to increase in 2022. So, what do you need to consider before you start planning your renovation this summer?

 

Budget Budget Budget

Having a good solid plan and budget is paramount when it comes to renovations. Researching every aspect of the spending is super important. It’s not uncommon to hear of projects stalling halfway through due to financial constraints. It’s hugely advised you leave your project with a wee buffer to cover all the unexpected costs or the additions you decide to make during the renovation. 

 

Remember that with a major renovation there will be many trades working together to get the job done. If one falls behind, it has a massive knock-on effect with other bookings. Meaning if you are unable to pay for one aspect, you may be left waiting to slot into another time. This can delay your deadline by weeks and possibly months. 

 

Having a clear budget, that you can work alongside your chosen builder to create will save you many headaches later down the track. Trying to make your pennies stretch is not a good idea when it comes to any renovation. 

 

It’s also a good idea to call in the experts for the quotes. Many times, they can source your materials easily and have a full list of costs involved. Self-sourcing products can cause delays in material deadlines and hamper the end project. 

 

Prioritise

If you are doing a major renovation, it’s also a good plan to priorities what needs to be done first. The bathroom normally hits the top of the list when it comes to a full home renovation. Having a make-shift kitchen is tolerable, having no shower might not be. So, tick off what needs to be achieved first.

 

With all renovations be it a new room or a new kitchen or bathroom, it’s a good idea to write yourself a list. Consider:

 

• What do I love about this space?

• What don’t I like?

• What am I hoping to achieve – more space, better design, more functional?

• What is the style I’m going for?

 

Asking these questions will help you keep on track with your expectations of what the result will give. Keeping true to your style is also a high priority. You may feel bombarded with ideas, so creating a vision board and having a very clear style and colour scheme you want to achieve can help you keep on track with your vision. 

 

Get Prepared

Once you’ve called in the experts, the plan is set, deadlines locked in, it’s time to get prepared. Renovations can be like living in a temporary construction zone. Prep is vital to ensure it does not impact your life in an unmanageable way. Top tips include:

 

• Box up unused items and store them away from the home or in an unused room.

• Be prepared for dust – seal up any roof ventilation to prevent it from going through the whole house and use plastic sheets to block the areas being renovated.

• New bathroom? Call on friends and family to help with showering during the process.

• New kitchen? Time to pull out the BBQ for a clean and meal prep for those days you will not be able to access the kitchen.

 

It’s also important to remember that during renovations you may have your power disconnected for short periods and your water. This can affect the everyday workings of a busy household including washing and internet usage. Having a good plan of what you will do during these times will make the process much easier to live through.

 

Renovations don’t need to be a stressful encounter the journey can be exciting and very enjoyable. With a little prep, and the right advice your renovation can be an enthralling adventure that you will remember for years to come. Don’t forget to take before and after photos and enjoy every moment of your dream project coming to life.

 

Need advice? You know who to call…