Remodeling tips from professional contractors can help you avoid home remodeling nightmares. From preparation to the final walk-through, delays and surprises can derail the best-laid plans. Follow this advice from the pros to encourage a smooth remodeling journey.

Remodeling tips: preparation

Do some homework and soul-searching before you begin. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), asking yourself questions can help.

• What are you trying to fix? Is your house crowded? Too dark?
• How can it be fixed? Basement family room? Open floor plan?
• What do you like? Look at blogs online, friends’ homes. Take pictures.
• What does your future hold? Consider how long you plan to stay in the home, as well as expected finances, family size, neighborhood changes. Look 5, 10 years ahead.
• What’s your budget? Realistically figure out what you can comfortably afford to spend.
• Who can help? For most remodels, a general contractor can best coordinate the details.

Remodeling tips: next steps

Whether you do some of the work yourself or leave it all to the professionals, experienced contractor Kenny Grono suggests you set yourself up for success with these next steps.

• Make all decisions before starting work. You need a plan to avoid costly delays.
• For better coordination, let the pros buy materials. That way everything is streamlined.
• Get everything in writing for your own protection. Keep all paperwork together in a file.
• Specify the best mode of communication. Are you usually available by email, phone or in person?
• Ask about inconveniences, such as water shut-off or electricity shut down.
• Listen to the professionals. Or as Grono says, don’t try to put lipstick on a pig. If the pros advise you to scrap a project, they have good reason.
• Set aside a contingency fund. 5% of the total cost is recommended for extra costs and unexpected repairs.

Remodeling tips: a glorious mess

In the midst of a remodel, things can seem chaotic. Keep the end product in mind and study these tips.

• Stick to the plan as much as possible. Changing your mind in the middle of a project costs money and time.
• Remove personal property, including valuables. Cover up everything else.
• Keep the construction area off-limits to children and pets to avoid injuries and distractions.
• Consider moving out for all or part of the job. No one likes to live with dust and noise.
• Stay out of the way. Small talk and spur-of-the-moment inspections waste time.
• Maintain regular communication with your contractor and work crew. Daily check-ins keep you apprised of the project’s progress.

Remodeling tips: wrapping things up

You can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and you will soon be able to enjoy an incredible new remodeled aspect of your home. Don’t forget these final steps from NARI.

• Schedule a walk-through inspection. Have the contractor address all needed corrections and adjustments.
• Make sure everything is signed, and that you have copies of all paperwork.
• Ask about guarantees and warranties. Many contractors and supplies have 1-year warranties.

Contractors have spent years fine-tuning the art of remodeling, and their remodeling tips can make all the difference. As you settle in to reap the rewards of your beautiful remodel, be sure to pass the word about the stand-outs on your remodeling team. A glowing recommendation goes a long way! For more, read our tips to prepare for a home remodel.

You deserve the Collom Construction quality.