Beginning a home remodeling project can be overwhelming, but with these ten insider tips, you can help ensure the process goes smoothly.
1. Plan Ahead
Make product selections early to avoid delays later in the project. This tactic also helps you stay on budget. Scrambling to make decisions at the last minute forces you to choose whatever is available then and there while planning ahead lets you strike while the iron is hot, choosing ideal product selections while they’re on sale.
2. Keep the Big Picture in Mind
When comparing product prices, take future maintenance and repair requirements into account. These add to the product’s cost and convenience in the grand scheme of things and could alert your decision.
3. Hire the Right Northern Virginia Remodeling Contractor
Look for an experienced company that does the following:
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Offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee
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Observes the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Code of Ethics when conducting business
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Honors all manufacturer warranties
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Is licensed, bonded and insured
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Maintains an “A” rating with the Better Business Bureau
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Provides free in-home consultations and accurate estimates
4. Visit a Job Site
The best way to get a feel for a Northern Virginia remodeling contractor is to visit an in-progress project. Look for a clean, organized site and workers that take precautions to keep everyone around them safe.
5. It Takes Two
While it’s up to the contractor to deliver a job well done, your attitude and cooperation makes a world of difference in the home remodeling project. Bring up any issues you’re having so the contractor can address them as soon as possible. Keep in mind you’ll be living in a construction zone for a little while so be patient and make the necessary adjustments.
6. Request a Detailed Contract
It’s never wise to jump into a project with a vague contract, or worse, no contract at all. Avoid problems by insisting on a written contract with the following details outlined by Angie’s List:
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Description of the project and who’s responsible for what
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Anticipated start and end dates (along with penalties for not meeting these dates)
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Payment terms
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Local permit requirements
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Outlined procedure for authorizing changes to the original agreement
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Cost estimates from the initial bid
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Proof of license, bonding and insurance
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Termination clause
7. Prepare Your Home for the Project
This includes taking down putting away precious ornaments you don’t want near the hustle and bustle of a home remodeling project. Take steps to protect permanent fixtures, if any. Cover the floor with cardboard or thick plastic sheets for protection there as well.
8. Make Design Decisions that Suit Your Lifestyle
Perhaps you’ve been reading everywhere that whirlpool tubs are all the rage. However, if you don’t have time to take baths, skip that installation and focus instead on a luxury steam shower. Don’t let anyone but yourself tell you what you should include in your home remodeling project.
9. Create More Livable Space
Connect rooms by knocking down walls and creating a more open floor plan. This is one of the most high-impact remodeling decisions you can make.
10. Think Outside the Box
Just because you have never seen a home with a laundry room upstairs doesn’t mean you can’t make that decision for your home. Then, even if every kitchen you’ve ever cooked in has a traditional oven range and cooktop, that doesn’t mean you have to stick to that mold. Figure out what you really want and do it!
If you’re ready to begin your much-anticipated home remodeling project, call Exterior Medics today. We’re here to make your remodeling dreams come true.
Image Credit: dawniecakes
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