Top Ten Renovation Faux Pas
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Ever wondered what the most common renovation mistakes are and how you can avoid them? We’re coming up to the festive season - which means lots of people will suddenly be finding themselves with more time on their hands to get cracking on those long-postponed DIY projects or maybe even invest in a larger renovation. A successful renovation is a well-considered renovation, one that avoids sidesteps these remodelling pitfalls - the best projects are planned long in advance so don’t waste another day!
Getting too caught up in seasonal trends...
... and not whether they are functional, whether they’ll throw your budget too much and how they will actually work in your kitchen. Like any consumer goods influenced by fashion cycles, it is important to deliberate on the specific dimensions and requirements of your renovation before you start following trends.
Be wary of bold design choices...
... to avoid regret. We don’t want to be party poopers, but since a good renovation should endure at least ten years, you should be careful to make choices your future self would be okay with. It’s usually best to go for striking colours and styles in replaceable goods, such as appliances or decorations, and not in lounge suites, kitchen cabinets or floorboards.
Going with the first quote you get...
... without properly thinking about whether it’s best for you. Remember that as the customer, you have the purchasing power and at the end of the day, it is your money and your choice - so don’t feel obligated to go with the first or friendliest contractor you encounter if they’re not a perfect fit.
Trying to do too much yourself...
... and forgetting to leave some things to the professionals. While indulging in a little DIY is a great way to save money, and it can be really rewarding to be involved in hands-on ways, there are certain aspects of a renovation job which are dangerous, or at the very least unwise, to tackle yourself without formal training. This goes especially for plumbing and any electrical work. Don’t feel guilty hiring help for work you could have done yourself if you simply can’t find the time or don’t want to organise it.
Making an overoptimistic budget...
... and not thinking comprehensively about the realities and potential complications of your renovation. You should also set aside some money for emergencies and mistakes and remember to factor in seemingly insignificant things which can really affect a budget and the costs of maybe having to live or cook out of home for a while.
Not checking contractor credentials...
... and licenses. Especially for high-risk work, you don’t need the potential safety issue and proper training will mean contractors are better able to advise you on regulations for layouts and appliances. Luckily, Service Central does this for you!
Getting overwhelmed with all of the decisions...
... and making hasty choices just to end the ambiguity. Renovations are a hotbed of decision fatigue and it’s common to feel vaguely stressed about being indecisive about things which you think are important but somehow can’t find an opinion on. Two things to avoid - trying to keep all of your options open for too long and, the opposite, becoming really nonchalant and making random decisions just to have something to say. Make sure you take the time to sit back and distance yourself from the process to bring a fresh perspective.
Not doing your research...
... and finding yourself having to compromise or entirely scrap ideas along the way. There’s nothing worse than purchasing precisely enough tiles for your swanky new kitchen only to realise that one is broken and you have nothing to replace it with. Be informed about how to deal with eventualities.
Skimping in the wrong areas...
... and facing the consequences of low quality. Know which battles to fight; know your priorities. There is very little point in going for the cheapest option in some circumstances, since you get what you pay for. Cheap materials are great for some things but disastrous for others - know where to save and where to splurge.
Forgetting the important things...
... and finding yourself caught out. Sure, it’s lots of fun to flip through paint samples, look at fancy materials and bathroom fittings - but it’s not just about aesthetics and the less glamorous side is just as important. Ensuring electrical wiring is compatible, avoiding structural damage or burst pipes and installing insulation are essential aspects of a renovation.
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