Planning your Home Improvement Project
Posted by Laura Nelson on November 20, 2009
Remodeling projects need plenty of planning for a successful outcome
By Steve Purduski, Owner, Case Handyman & Remodeling
As fall transitions to the holiday season, homeowners are occupied with all sorts of activities, the last thing on their minds is working on a home remodeling project. People usually perceive remodeling as a spring or summer activity, and to some extent, they’re right–a LOT of remodeling projects, particularly the ones visible from the street, are done in the warmer weather months. However, there are some VERY good reasons for not waiting and starting your home improvement planning process now, including:
1. First, and foremost, adequate planning for a home remodel takes time. Even a relatively simple cosmetic makeover of a bath or kitchen involves selections of cabinets, fixtures, tile, flooring, and other components of the project. Settling on a design might take several iterations. If the homeowners’ intent is to actually get started on the project in the spring, then the planning should start before the first of the year.
2. Order and delivery of special-order items such as cabinetry can take four to six weeks, or even longer in some cases. Allocate plenty of lead time to make sure that all materials are available and inspected. This also applies to exterior projects.
3. Larger projects requiring permits may take a number of weeks for approval and processing and may require several iterations with the municipality. In some cases, where new additions are being built, you may need to seek variances and go through City Council votes for approval. This could add months to a project.
4. Prices have a tendency to increase in the beginning of the year. By working on design, selection, and ordering in the November / December timeframe, homeowners can avoid potential price increases and may even be able to take advantage of year end sales.
5. Planning your project adequately in advance allows your contractor to help you zero in on exactly what you desire and allows them to line up all the resources needed–approvals, materials, and labor–and produce the most pleasing remodeling project.
For help with planing your project, contact Case Remodeling services at (630) 357-7171.
Tags:Home & Garden, Local Business
