Essential Remodeling Tips for a Smooth & Successful Project
At NHC Remodeling, we believe that a well-planned project leads to the best results. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll ensure a more efficient schedule, a strong working relationship with your contractor, and a successful outcome for your remodel.
1. Make Decisions Early
The best way to keep your project on schedule is to finalize all decisions before work begins. Delays often stem from small choices, such as selecting paint, trim, or fixtures, that can have a domino effect on scheduling. A delayed faucet order could push plumbing back by weeks, affecting the entire timeline.
2. Minimize Changes
Changes during a project can be costly and disruptive. Even minor alterations lead to change orders, extra costs, and rescheduling. While adjustments are sometimes necessary, be mindful of the impact on both time and budget.
3. Let Your Contractor Handle Materials
While it may seem like buying your own materials will save money, contractors often have better pricing and warranties on supplies. Plus, purchasing your own materials can shift liability onto you. If you prefer a labor-only approach, consider hiring a handyman rather than a full-service contractor.
4. Prioritize Structural Integrity Over Aesthetics
Investing in cosmetic upgrades on a house with serious structural issues can be a costly mistake. Listen to your contractor's advice...sometimes, rebuilding or focusing on foundational repairs first is the smartest financial move.
5. Budget for the Unexpected
Most projects end up costing more than expected due to unforeseen issues. Have a contingency fund (5–15% of your budget) to cover surprises without stretching beyond your means.
6. Keep Kids & Pets Safe
A construction site is not a safe place for children and pets. For their protection and to keep the job moving smoothly, keep them away from work areas. Some contractors may even require a signed waiver if they are on-site during construction.
7. Consider Temporary Relocation
Living in your home during a remodel can be stressful. If possible, plan for temporary housing or at least designate a clean retreat space in an area of your home that isn't being remodeled. For smaller projects like a bathroom remodel or deck build, staying put is usually fine, but larger renovations can be disruptive.
8. Avoid Unnecessary Distractions
Every minute a contractor spends chatting with you is time not spent working on your project. Keep discussions focused on project-related matters and direct any questions to the project supervisor or office and NEVER to the crew workers! Small talk can add up to delays and additional labor costs and speaking to the crew/workers can create confusion, misinformation and delays or mistakes.
9. Respect the Home’s Style
While blending modern and traditional styles can work, not every design fits every home. Make sure your remodeling choices align with your home’s architecture to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing result.
10. Always Have a Design Plan
Even if you don’t hire an architect, a clear plan is essential. NHC offers free design assistance for structural planning on contracted projects and affordable interior design consultations. Without a plan, you risk disjointed results and costly mistakes.
11. Stick to the Contracted Work
Asking your contractor to handle extra tasks not included in the contract, such as hanging pictures or moving furniture which takes time away from your project. If additional work is needed, discuss it with your contractor beforehand to ensure fair compensation.
12. Communicate Only with Your Contractor
Do not discuss project details, costs, or changes with subcontractors or laborers—they work for the contractor, not directly for you. Always direct questions to the contractor, office or project supervisor to ensure accurate information and proper execution.
13. Hold Off on Revealing the Work Too Soon
Let your contractor finish the job before showing off their work. Unfinished projects may look incomplete, leading to misconceptions about the quality of work. Wait for the big reveal to showcase the transformation properly out of respect for your contractor who is working hard to create the perfect results for you.
14. Set Realistic Expectations
Your contractor can only work with the existing space and budget. If you opt for cosmetic upgrades without expanding a small kitchen, don’t expect it to feel significantly larger. Trust your contractor’s design recommendations while trying to stay within budget for the best possible outcome.
15. Understand Interior Design is a Professional Service
Many contractors have an in-house interior designer (like NHC does), but design advice is not free. If you need help with colors, layouts, or décor, consider hiring a professional designer for expert guidance. NHC will however offer some assistance with paint color sheen and choice, best materials for flooring for your particular space and certain brands or styles of materials. An extensive design plan however is however a cost advantage for a contracted client with NHC, it is not free of all charges.
16. Keep Design Advice Within the Scope of Work
Our designers at NHC are skilled and affordable, but their expertise is a service...not an added perk (with exceptions stated in line 15). If you’re looking for help beyond the agreed-upon design scope, ask for a fair quote rather than expecting complimentary advice that involves extensive time consuming design.
At NHC Remodeling, we strive to make every project seamless, cost-effective, and stress-free. Following these tips will help ensure a smooth process, clear communication, and a stunning end result!
