Avoiding remodeling pitfalls can help make your renovation go smoother. Undertaking a major remodel or adding on to your home is always an exciting process filled with visions of your dream space. However, renovations and additions are complex projects that come with plenty of potential pitfalls. Having worked on countless remodels, we’ve seen it all in terms of mistakes that cause delays, go over budget, or result in something not meeting expectations. To help ensure a smooth, successful project, be on the lookout for these frequent remodeling missteps and take steps to steer clear of them:

1. Underestimating Total Costs

• One of the biggest blunders is undervaluing how much a quality renovation or addition will truly cost from start to finish. Overlooking expenses like materials, labor, permits, fees, and surprise “unknowns” that arise during construction is a recipe for going over budget.
• The Fix: Budget at least 10-15% more than your quoted estimates to cover inevitable cost overages. Also, have funds set aside for finishing touches like landscaping and decor that often get forgotten.

2. Poor Planning & Design Choices

• Homeowners sometimes struggle to thoroughly plan out functional layouts, storage needs, and design decisions involving elements like lighting, fixtures, and finishes. Making changes midstream leads to delays and extra costs.
• The Fix: Think through every minor detail in the design planning phase. Take time to review 3D renderings and make final selections of all materials before demolition begins.

3. Hiring the Wrong Contractor

• Your remodeling contractor’s quality of work and experience level make all the difference. Choosing one based solely on pricing often comes back to haunt you with missed deadlines, low craftsmanship, and miscommunication nightmares.
• The Fix: Thoroughly vet contractors by checking reviews, their portfolio, licensing, insurance, and interviewing candidates in person. A proven, trustworthy contractor is worth the investment.

4. Trying to Stay During Major Renovations

• Dusting, noise, lack of a kitchen or bathroom…major remodels take over your entire living space. Many homeowners try to “tough it out” and stay put rather than temporarily relocating, only to deeply regret it.
• The Fix: Have a relocation plan to stay with friends/family or budget for a short-term furnished rental. Your sanity is worth it!

5. Cutting Corners on Design or Quality

• In an effort to save money, homeowners often opt for less skilled labor or lower quality, builder-grade materials. But those short-term savings get eaten up later by costlier maintenance and repairs or renovations looking dated sooner.
• The Fix: Select mid-range or higher quality, durable materials. Use trusted brands, craftspeople, and established remodeling professionals. Investing wisely in quality upfront pays dividends in longevity and long-term satisfaction.

6. Code Violations and Lack of Permits

• Demolishing walls, expanding footprints, and altering major systems require proper permits and inspections to ensure code compliance. Skipping these steps saves time but violates laws and creates issues when going to sell.
• The Fix: Always acquire the proper permits and schedule inspections. Your contractor should fully understand local codes and handle this step to avoid fines and future complications.

While potential setbacks on renovations are common, partnering with an experienced, reputable design-build remodeling firm provides expertise to deftly navigate these obstacles. We take time upfront to precisely plan every detail, set accurate budgets and timelines, secure necessary permits and use premium materials and top industry talent. With the proper preparation, your remodel can achieve that dream result you envisioned while avoiding costly pitfalls.