If you’ve decided that you want to tackle a home remodel in Danville CA, there are lots of overwhelming choices to make throughout the entirety of the project. But the most important steps occur before you even begin. Whether you’re considering a garage conversion, kitchen remodel, or full-on home addition, check out these five essential steps to take before that first hammer swings.
1. Visualize the Design and Layout
The first step in any home remodel is to visualize your layout and spell out what your ultimate goal for the space is. Do you want a more luxurious bathroom that includes all the latest in technology and creature comforts? Or are you looking for something more functional, such as a kitchen layout that works for your busy family?
Many home remodelers have designers who can work with your vision and incorporate your needs and wants into the final result. You can research potential designs online, and then merge those with the recommendations of your designer. Make sure they know your budget from the outset to keep everyone on the same page.
2. Create Your Budget
It’s easier than you think to spend more on your renovation that you initially anticipated. Things can quickly spiral out of control when you don’t start off on the right foot with a budget. You will want to leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses, but by and large, the budget you create should act as a guideline for the remodel project and keep you on track.
Do your own research on the average costs for various projects in your region, from kitchen to bathroom remodels, to help you craft an accurate budget. Estimates from your contractor will also help to shape your budget and ensure you don’t go overboard. Be up front with your contractor so they know where you stand and what you can afford.
3. Hire the Right Contractors
Take the time to do your due diligence on the contractors you decide to hire. Their reputation, skill, and experience will greatly determine the quality of your home remodel project. Ask for word of mouth recommendation from friends and neighbors on who they recommend. Read reviews online, and speak with a few contractors to ask questions and get estimates. Ask for references and follow up. Putting a lot of thought into your decision will benefit you in the long run, as you’ll ideally end up with a timely, reputable, accommodating, and skilled contractor.
4. Keep Your Living Space Clean and Livable
If you are facing a relatively minor remodel and have chosen to remain in the home for the duration, you’ll have to make some slight modifications and adjustments. Be sure to coordinate with your contractors to see what you and your family can do to get out of their way while they do their work. Make special arrangements for pets so they’re not underfoot, and if you have small children, make sure they are kept away from the work zone for everyone’s safety.
Consider how you will deal with the noise, commotion, and dust. Lay down tarps, wear some headphones so you can focus on work, install a fresh air filter to keep the indoor air quality healthy, and regularly clean dirty surfaces. Your contractors can likely give you more advice on what you can do to keep your space clean and livable. They will also do all they can to protect your flooring, walls, and upholstery while they perform their jobs.
5. Consider the Need For Temporary Housing
Of course, sometimes with extensive home renovations, it’s very difficult or impossible to remain living in the home while the work is going on. This is especially true if you’re gutting the whole first floor and converting to an open floor plan, renovating the bedrooms, or renovating the only bathroom. You may have to move out for a few days or weeks while the work is going on for two reasons: to stay out of the way of the contractors so they can work without interruption or obstruction, and to ensure your own privacy and comfort.
It can be tough to keep a consistent routine when your kitchen is under tarps for weeks on end, for instance. You may have to consider temporary housing in a hotel or friend’s home in the interim. Just be sure to factor the cost of this housing into your budget.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Home Remodelers Today
The team at Asher Brothers Construction prides itself on keeping you in the loop through all phases of your home remodel, and can even provide guidance on what you should be considering before even starting. We welcome you to schedule your consultation today or give us a call at (925) 406-4776.
