Whether you’re modernizing a kitchen, redecorating a living room, or designing a dream bathroom, one thing’s for sure: mistakes will cost you! So, how can you prevent them?
Start by asking yourself the following eight questions well before you begin your project.
1. Is Your Budget Realistic?
The mistake: Diving into a renovation without calculating the total costs. The result: soaring bills and a growing series of last-minute compromises.
How to avoid it: Take the time to draft a detailed budget containing materials, labour, contingencies (reserve 10% to 20% for surprises), and ancillary fees (like permits and deliveries).
ü Be honest with yourself: can you really afford that quartz countertop? Or would it be wiser to choose a more cost-effective, but similar-looking, quality alternative?
2. Have You Fully Prepared?
The mistake: Spontaneously buying materials, changing your mind mid-project, or ignoring the logical sequence of steps.
How to avoid it: Plan each phase of the renovation in the proper order: floors are installed before cabinets, paint goes on after plastering, etc. A well-coordinated timeline and a clear plan will save you a lot of headaches.
3. Are You Overestimating Your Abilities?
The mistake: People are often tempted to do some of the work themselves to cut costs. Taking on the role of a weekend handyman may seem like a good idea, until you puncture a pipe or realize that laying tiles straight isn’t as easy as it looks!
How to avoid it: Know your limits. DIY is great, but not at the expense of safety and quality. Most importantly, certain jobs, such as electrical, plumbing, or structural work, should always be entrusted to certified professionals.
4. Have You Chosen Your Materials Impulsively?
The mistake: Falling in love with magnificent but fragile, hard-to-clean, or inappropriate materials. Or, jumping on items that are on sale yet don’t suit the space.
How to avoid it: Prioritize function before looks. For example, porous tiles in a bathroom are a no-no because they’re prone to staining. Softwood flooring in a high-traffic hallway is likewise not ideal.
ü Before you buy, research the materials to ensure they’re durable, you can maintain them, and they fit your lifestyle.
5. Are You too Closely Following Trends?
The mistake: Giving your interior a super trendy, Pinterest board-worthy makeover… that will be out of style in four years.
How to avoid it: Yes, look for ideas online, but make sure the ones you pick reflect your personality. Also, it’s usually best to stick to timeless, neutral, and sturdy furnishings. You can then integrate trendy accessories (like lamps or colourful cushions). You can easily, and cheaply, replace these items when your decor becomes outdated.
6. Have You Remembered the Lighting?
The mistake: Failing to provide adequate lighting or settling for a single ceiling fixture. It will be a bit too late to install more lights once the electrician and plasterer have left!
How to avoid it: Layer your lighting by including the following three types of light sources:
- General lighting (like a dome light or recessed lights)
- Task lighting (like LEDs under kitchen cabinets)
- Accent lighting (a floor lamp in conjunction with wall sconces and small table lamps)
Plus, multiple lighting options will allow you to adapt your space to your present mood and needs.
7. Have You Consulted Your Municipality’s Bylaws?
The mistake: Believing you can do whatever you want in your own home… and finding out that the municipal authorities disagree!
How to avoid it: Check with your municipality or the syndicate of co-owners before you go ahead. Certain modifications, even inside your property, may require permits, or specific restrictions may apply (especially regarding condo units).
8. Have You Considered Resale Value?
The mistake: Splurging on ultra custom features that may deter future buyers.
How to avoid it: If you intend to sell your home in the next few years, don’t ignore resale value. Stick to timeless designs, durable materials, and upgrades with wide and multigenerational appeal.
The main thing to keep in mind when embarking on a renovation project is that it’s always best to proceed slowly, plan carefully… and ask for advice when you need it!