Cost-Effective Solutions to Remodeling a Home

Remodeling is a pain in two ways. It’s a pain because you’ll live in a “messy” space for months while certain rooms get constructed. And it’s a pain because there is a chance of going over your budget.

When both pain points present themselves, with great ferocity, on your remodeling project, you are screwed.

But, like everything else in life, there is a better way to go about this significant project. Do not get discouraged by someone else’s bad experience, with lousy contractors and costly mistakes. Remodeling has its benefits, from increasing the value of your property to improving your lifestyle. So it’s worth taking on.

Start by getting organized and being prepared. Never take on a remodel without having a plan. If you jump right in with, for example, moving the toilet to make room for a tub in your bathroom, you could end up with a non-functioning space because you forgot to look at the plumbing.

Organization and planning will save you time and, more importantly, money.

For other money-saving solutions to your remodeling project, consider these ideas:

Scavenge for old stuff to reuse.

Don’t scoff at used items because you never know when you strike gold with a vintage clawfoot tub that’s being thrown out at a house demolition. People throw out the oddest things, too. From couches and lighting fixtures to cabinets and tables, some of these “throw aways” could still be in good condition. Refurbished the right way, you can reuse them for your remodeled home and save money on buying furniture, fixtures, and cabinets.

“Destroy” your own house.

Demolition jobs are for professional crews. But you can actually take on some aspects of the demolition, provided it’s not hazardous and you’re wearing safety gear. You can save a few bucks on a demo by asking the demolition service which areas are safe for you to “destroy.” Also, it’s a pretty good way of releasing pent up energy.

Invest in good materials.

Think about long-term costs. You might pay less for low-quality tiles or cladding now but you will pay more in the long run when these materials give way to repairs and replacements. For areas that are exposed to harsh elements, for spaces that frequently get used, choose good quality materials.

Discover smart options.

Style does not have to come at a steep price. Advances in construction materials have given way to clever options, like spray-on paving. Spray-on paving is a cost-effective solution to adding a decorative feature to your concrete driveways, patios, footpaths, or ramps. The professional and HIA-member pavers add that the concrete surfacing system can and will brighten up dull concrete spaces — without the big bucks.

Wait for contractors to want your project.

Peak season applies to construction work. The height of demo and construction work is scheduled right around summer and just as kids are heading back to school. If your remodel can wait until contractors have fewer to no projects, then wait. You’ll get a much cheaper quote and your remodel will get done faster.