With spring in the air and summer just around the corner, many Ottawa homeowners are getting ready to start their home renovation projects. However, if you’re not careful, you can easily make some common mistakes that will cost you time and money.Â
In this blog post, we’ll outline five of the most common renovation mistakes homeowners make so that you can avoid them yourself. So read on for tips that will help ensure your project goes smoothly!
As experts in home renovation, we’ve seen many homeowners repeatedly make the same mistakes, and we don’t want that for you! So take our advice—avoid these five common blunders:
Don’t get us wrong; we love a good DIY project. While you may be handy, a home renovator project has so many variables and can take so much time and effort to complete (even if it’s a seemingly simple project). You’re always better off calling your local Ottawa renovation specialists or Ottawa contractors.Â
Doing a home renovation project on your own can lead to unexpected issues, safety hazards and costs. Take it from us; calling in the home renovation experts is always worth it.Â
Whether it’s something as simple as replacing your countertops or completely remodelling your home, home renovation projects can take time to execute.Â
Before getting started, it’s essential to set your overall goal and think about what exactly you want out of your home renovation. It’s a good idea to talk it over with your family and your renovator, so everyone is on the same page about what needs to happen.Â
If you’re planning for a huge project, you may need to move out temporarily while the renovators work their magic. If this is the case, planning for the right time to schedule the project and preparing alternative accommodations are necessary.Â
All of this considered, make sure you budget the entire project to know exactly how much you’ll spend. You don’t want to get halfway through your project and realize you can’t afford what you’ve asked for.
Finally, know what permits you need to execute your home renovations. The last thing you need is for your local authorities to burst in and put all your hard work to a halt!
Once your plan is in place, it’s time to find the perfect renovator.Â
Sometimes, we opt for the least expensive or most convenient option – which we understand. However, when it comes to your home renovation project, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of getting reliable and trustworthy home renovation experts for the job.
Your renovator will be in your home a lot, possibly for weeks or months, so it’s essential to find someone you’re comfortable with. Look for reputable renovators with good reviews, and always ask for references.Â
Shop around for different Ottawa renovation specialists until you find someone who understands your vision, who you feel you can trust, and who has references or reviews.Â
The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop is part of the RenoMark Network. We like working with RenoMark because all of the renovators must abide by the local Home Builder Association’s Code of Ethics so you can have confidence in your renovation professional.Â
A homeowner’s biggest mistake when undergoing a renovation is not getting a written contract.Â
A contract is essential for your own protection. It states all the terms of your agreement in writing, including the scope of work, price, schedule, and payment information. So in case, something goes wrong, or your contractor bails at the last minute, your contract will ensure protection from any financial or legal responsibility.
That’s why our renovators always provide a contract. Any renovator that offers to do the job for cash or without a contract is doing so for their benefit – not yours.Â
One mistake we see often is homeowners not checking on the progress of their home renovations.
It’s best to watch the process and make yourself available for open and consistent communication with your renovator.Â
If you notice something unexpected, or something you’re not happy with, it’s important to speak up soon rather than later. Suppose you’re not around or don’t communicate with your renovator until much later. In that case, you could be costing yourself more time and money, or possibly your satisfaction with the renovation.
Likewise, your renovator may need to speak to you about the project. Suppose something goes unplanned, such as unforeseen weather, an out-of-stock product, measurement issues, or anything. In that case, your renovator should be able to communicate with you quickly and discuss your options.Â
Are you all ready for your home renovation? Call The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop, and talk to one of our Ottawa home renovation experts today.
The Fireplace Center and Patio Shop is your one-stop-shop for all your indoor and outdoor essentials. With one of Canada’s largest showrooms, we have over 200 fireplaces on display. With extensive knowledge in BBQs, heating and cooling, and patio furniture, you can trust our team to provide expert advice, quality assembly and installation. Get in touch with us today!
Skip to content
