If you’re thinking about doing a home renovation, needless to say, this will be a huge project. Home renovations have a lot of moving parts and require extensive planning, thought and decisions. By having a home renovation plan, this is one of the best ways to keep organized (and sane).
But getting started isn’t always easy, instead of sifting through various results from googling “how to renovate a house” or “renovating a house checklist”, we got everything you need in the following steps below.
Design and Planning
The first step is always to start thinking of how you want your finished project to look. Home renos need thought and that’s why writing or drawing out your plans is a good place to start. Whether you do a sketch on some graph paper, go full out architectural plan or even just a checklist of your remodel will help align your goals and track your progress.
Another consideration to include in your design and planning scheme, is drafting a yes/no list of projects you can do yourself and others you would delegate to contractors and subcontractors.
This is also a good stage to apply for permits for necessary jobs you’ll be doing on your own.
Consider Bigger Projects
When planning your house renovation, think of some of the bigger projects. Some ‘big projects’ can include:
- Roof replacement or repair
- Foundation fixes
- Inspecting for plumbing issues like water infiltration (this would be especially important for old house renovations)
- Installation of windows and siding
It’s always best to get any large scale projects done before tackling the smaller projects helps, this helps avoid overlapping or delays. Consider the following two steps when it comes to assessing and completing your beginning home renovations.
- Check the foundation and any structural issues
By assessing this first, it will help ensure your house won’t collapse and will be in a solid state as you move forward in your renovations. This is also a good time to make any repairs on the foundation, weakened walls, joints and beams.
- Check your roof, siding and windows
As you continue with your remodelling, it’s important to keep it dry. That means taking time to assess and inspect your roof, siding and windows..
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If you’re planning some demolition for sections of your house that will later be replaced by your renovation project, do not overlook details of the demolition until the project begins. Many homeowners tend to overlook and underestimate how much planning goes into demolitions.
For a stress-free demolition, it’s important to have a plan. The house demolition process usually includes:
- Getting your house inspected
- Acquire the necessary permits
- Schedule your removal containers and proceed with the demolition
Think About Structural Changes
Another consideration you should be thinking about incorporating is structural carpentry. This can include moving walls, constructing new walls, adding support beams, removal/addition of doors, adding framing and enlarging window openings.
Now unless you are an experienced DIYer, it is recommended to get a contractor’s expertise for structural carpentry.
Plan out HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical
These vital services need to be installed when your wall and ceiling are open, this is the most optimal time since it will be easier for professionals to install ductwork for central heating or air conditioning, electrical and plumbing systems.
The majority of building codes also require professionally licensed technicians to handle this part of your home renovation.
Think About Windows
Whether you are doing a full-house or partial remodel, window installation plays a big part. Installing new windows or replacing windows is a good addition to many home renovation projects as it can add great functionality and aesthetic to the overall design of your home.
Insulation and Drywall
At this point in your renovation, you should be thinking about insulation and drywall. Before you can close your walls with drywall, insulation must be put in. There are plenty of options, so it’s important to weigh out your alternatives and choose the best option for the area you’ll be installing them in.
It’s good to have a second inspection at this point before you close the walls. A second look by an electric and plumbing inspector can help avoid big costs down the line should something be wrong.
When you are closing your walls, the standard process of drywalling can include hanging, applying a compound and then sanding. This process is repeated until a seamless surface is achieved. Depending on your comfortability you may be able to do this yourself or you can hire contractors to do this for you.
Interior Painting, Wallpaper and Other Finishing Work
The majority of homeowners can handle the task of painting interior walls, hanging wallpaper, painting moulding and trim, or staining and sealing trim. This kind of detail-oriented surface touches should be one of the last tasks you complete indoors, as this work can be easily damaged or damage other parts of different projects.
Flooring
One of the final steps in your reno will vary depending on which room and style of flooring you decide to go with. There are many different styles of flooring you can choose from including:
- Laminate, hardwood or engineered wood
- Marble, tile or vinyl
- Carpet
It is recommended to save your flooring for the absolute last step to avoid any damage done to it.
Exterior
Once your inside renovations are complete (or very close to it), now would be the time to turn your sights to the outside. If you decide to do any work on the siding or gutters, it’s best to save this until the inside is complete to avoid damage. You can also consider any external renovations like a sunroom or porch styles. It’s also worth contemplating any separate projects like detached garages and swimming pools.
Here at VIP Classic Moulding, we understand that home renovations are huge projects that take a monumental amount of thought and consideration. Our professional custom home renovation team works with you to create a beautiful space throughout your home.
Each project we take on is meticulously planned to include all the details that are of the utmost significance to you, and are carefully allotted into your budget to ensure that the final results meet your design goals without breaking your bank or compromising on quality and workmanship.
If you’re ready to begin the home renovations to achieve your dream home, contact us today!
