If you are planning a renovation or remodel, a home extension, or a much-needed plumbing system upgrade, there are a few key questions to ask yourself: What needs to be done? What is a fair estimate? Who should I hire? Before becoming overwhelmed, here are the basics of what you need to know before investing in a home renovation or remodel.
Renovation vs. Remodel: What’s the Difference?
The terms, “renovation” and “remodel”, are often used interchangeably. However, the differences in definition are significant:
It is important to be able to distinguish between the two, particularly when speaking with contractors. Being clear with terminology can make a difference in the work estimate and it makes you sound more authoritative.
Home Extensions
Home extensions can be a great investment– think of them as medium to long-term projects that eventually become added profit to the property value. However, they can also be emotionally and financially taxing. Before starting such an intensive project, it is important to answer the following questions:
- Will this cost more than the value it will add to my house?
- How long will this take to complete?
- Am I prepared to pay for unanticipated costs that may arise?
What kind of home addendum you go with will impact the estimate, cost, and time it takes to complete the extension.
New Kitchen
There are several options on how to go about building a new kitchen. When renovating any room, keep in mind the prices associated with restoring items back to their original form. Often it is necessary to hire a professional who specializes in restorations from a certain period in time– this kind of consultation can quickly add up.
If you go the remodel route, it can be less expensive to create a new kitchen look. For example, instead of buying new cabinets, take off the cabinet doors and go with an open shelves concept. Research any demolition work that you need and see if it is possible to do yourself. Same goes for painting– as laborious a task as it is, you can save up to thousands of dollars by painting the new kitchen yourself.
New Bathroom
Experts say the average cost for a bathroom remodel can run anywhere from $1,000 (if you do the work yourself) to $26,000 (depending on how fancy you get)– that is a huge range! To help minimize some of the costs, make a checklist of “must have” features vs. “nice to have” features.
Other Ways to Reduce the Cost of a Bathroom Remodel Include:
- Limit the use of tile
- Invest in a good quality paint (water-proof and mold-proof)
- Save on countertops
- Freshen the caulk and grout
- Update fixtures
Plumbing Renovations
Just like any appliance, pipes and plumbing do not last forever. Over the years, chemicals and other corroding agents can rust and decay your pipes. To avoid leaks (or worse, water damage), it is best to get a professional’s opinion if you experience any of the following…
4 Signs You May Have a Plumbing Problem:
- The pipes are older than recommended
- The pipes are made of Lead or Polybutylene
- The pipes are discolored or stained
- The pipes are dimpling or flaking
Local Plumbers
Plumbing renovations are one of the trickiest upgrades to perform. Not only do plumbing updates need to be up to code, but they are often labor-intensive and require a local plumber, in order to assure quality control. Hiring a professional plumber is something you should never skimp on.
Flotechs Plumbing: Peace of Mind Plumbing
At Flotechs Plumbing, our mission is quite simple. We provide our residential and commercial customers peace of mind when it comes to their plumbing and heating needs. Our vision is to be the most trusted and most referred plumbing company in Westchester County. We realize this is no small task, but it keeps us focused each and every day on serving you.
Better Safe, Than Sorry
When it comes to renovations, remodels, home extensions, and even plumbing issues, it is always best to seek out the advice of a professional before beginning any work. After all, it is better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to home improvement projects.
