Morgan Midterm Exam
We have learned so much this past month. Here we are a few weeks into our first big project (and likely still a few weeks away from the completion…) and have to take a minute to jot down the list. Despite all of the specific nuances of working on a bathroom, we’re happy to have started with a small space initially. We’ll be pros by the time we get to the kitchen!
So what have we learned so far?
Matching shades of white is a pain in the ass.
You will make so. many. decisions. Decisions on everything. Decisions you don’t want to have to make. Decisions you think are stupid but will make or break your entire plan.
Lighting can change everything — paint colors will NOT look the same on your walls as they do at the store.
Tile work is really expensive. And takes forever.
No matter how careful you think you’ll be, protect your floors and walls. You’ll be thankful for the peace of mind when your sub-contractor throws a bucket down and you know you have cardboard protecting your brand new floor.
You’ll eat a lot of take-out on the floor. Often with a headlamp on.
There will be dust everywhere. No matter how many times you wipe down the counter, you’ll find a new layer of it first thing in the morning.
Demolition is fun. But then you have a giant pile of junk on your patio.
You can’t go to Home Depot without spending at least an hour there — especially if you need an item on one of the super high shelves.
Ace Hardware is stupidly overpriced.
The As-Is section at IKEA can be a goldmine.
Toilet measurements are very specific and limiting if you don’t want to move plumbing. Also, sitting on toilets in the store is pretty awkward!
There are not very many modern, square-looking tub options.
Take the time to seek out Mom-and-Pop specialty shops. You’ll learn a ton from them, and the customer service will be better.
Electrical and plumbing plans are great but everything can change when the walls are down to the studs. Be flexible.
Sometimes you find time capsule treasures inside the walls.
When drywall is off, it’s the best time to think about and plan for future upgrades. We’ve reinforced sections of the walls for towel bars and future glass shower doors.
Avoid Know-It-All sub-contractors.
It’s best to have all of your fixtures in advance so you don’t mount a sconce too low by accident :)
Make sure you have plenty of snacks and drinks at the house. You’ll spend hours on end working and all of a sudden be starving.
As challenging and stressful as it can be, it’s super rewarding to work on your own house. Seeing progress can be just the motivation you need!
