Don't Make These Home Renovation Mistakes

Renovating your home can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. In some cases, renovation may be needed for more than visual purposes, such as if your home is out of date with inspection codes and safety measures. However, renovation is not for everyone.

There are several mistakes that one could make along the way, which can lead to disastrous results. Make sure your home projects stay on schedule and under budget by avoiding these common mishaps:

Not planning ahead

You might get caught up in the initial excitement of revamping your home with trendy new products and the latest styles. However, create a strict budget and plan out everything you need ahead of time. Try to stick to your schedule as much as you can. Otherwise, projects can drag on for months and leave your home exposed and gutted. Set time aside to brainstorm ideas to make the process as easy and inexpensive as possible while also coming up with backup plans.

Going overboard

While browsing aisles and online marketplaces, you may be tempted to purchase items on first sight. Have all your items selected before you begin renovating your home so you're not buying things on impulse. Your budget can quickly fall by the wayside if you're not careful.

Incorrect materials

You don't have to be an engineer to know that some materials will work and others won't. You should draw up blueprints of what your renovation should look like once completed. This will give you a good idea of what the endgame looks like. Also, talk with a builder to make sure your renovation is feasible in the first place. Focus on measurements specifically and keep in mind small things like the direction doors and cabinets open so that you aren't assembling things incorrectly.

Doing it alone

You may think a renovation is simple, but once you delve into the project, you could be left stranded with numerous problems and no knowledge of how to fix them. Always have a partner on hand to help you through the process. Whether it's to help with heavy lifting or to give a second opinion, another set of hands can be beneficial.

Forgetting safety

Your new renovation should make safety a top priority. Don't settle for cheap materials simply because they will save you money. Opt for stronger, more durable items that will hold up over time. In addition, be careful when handling especially dangerous tools, which you may not commonly use.

Ignoring discounts

One of the best reasons to renovate your home is because you may qualify for a home insurance discount. If you use energy-efficient materials, then your provider can reward you with a green home discount. Not only will your home be stronger, but also you'll spend less on utilities and monthly insurance premiums. Further, updating your home's electrical system should be a part of the renovation process if you are doing major overhauls. Retrofitting your home with new wiring will decrease the chance of house fires, which lessens your insurance risk.

Contact CoverHound for homeowners insurance quotes.