Home renovation can be such a rewarding undertaking both financially and personally, but it is always a stressful and frustrating experience. The DIY approach saves you a lot on labor costs and the mark up contractors charge for the materials. In actual sense, most Do It Yourself renovators are Do It With Trade (DIWT). Besides managing the job and the demolition for renovation, they select suitable color-schemes, remove and reinstall simple fittings, source for fixtures and fittings just but to mention a few simple jobs. They however have to be skilled or they will have to contract specialists in carpentry works, electrics, tilling, plumping and bricklaying. If you are feeling handy, take a look at these tips to help ease the process for you.
Preparation for the renovation
Move everything from the house unless you are renovating a small part of it. Ensure that your neighbors are informed of the forthcoming process because it will surely be noisy and inconveniencing. You can give them gifts to pacify them such as champagne at a hotel or earplugs.
Research
Do an exhaustive research and find out as much as you need on what is useful for the renovation process. Use the internet to learn more and find out some of the materials, fittings and appliances that you can use. Study home improvement magazines, get pictures from the internet and study them carefully to get the juicy ideas that you can adapt. Draw-up a wish list that contains exactly what the building will be made up of, seek the advice of specialists, architects and other builders who can look at your site and probably make a sketch that will give you some idea of how the renovated building would look like.
Design and style
Keep in mind the integrity of the architectural work of the building. Be simple and unique in your style, keep it elegant though, and consider using neutral colors carefully and thoughtfully. You can use three colors in one room, but if the room is small, use two colors only. Think of how you can maximize room space, you may want more. Consider the requirements of each room during the renovation; some rooms may need more items than others. Prioritize the front exterior of the home; ensure that it presents a welcoming note statement. Other things to consider include; using higher ceilings, renovating if only the house is sound, ventilation and prioritize your preferences.
The layout and sketch
The drawings and sketching should be done rightly and more detailed for easier building. Avoid small boxy-rooms. The rooms should create a sense of space with proper ventilation. Keep the original configuration of the house to avoid extra costs of plumbing, electric works and any alteration of the wall construction, doors and windows.
Architecture plans
If it is a major renovation, then consider using an experienced architect who will prioritize your style and preferences. You can take a look at their previous works and talk with previous customers.
Renovation budget and resale
Set a friendly budget. If the budget is restrictive, then spend money on the kitchen and bathroom; where the water is. The money you spend will depend on how long you will live in the house. If you are going to sell the house sometime in the future, then do not spend huge sums of money. Keep the renovation simple to spend less.
Legal
Be informed on legal restrictions for DIY reconstruction approach. There are certain works that you can do yourself without any legal procedures such as paintings, paperhanging and redecorating. There are however some that require a qualified tradesperson.
Insurance- Do not assume that your insurance policy will cover up the whole process automatically. Contact your company and inform them of the proposals to ensure that your property is fully covered.
Darren is an experienced business consultant and analyst for heavy machinery suppliers in Australia.