Do’s and Dont’s for Do-it-Yourself Remodeling
According to HUD and the U.S. Census Bureau, in recent years home owner do-it-yourself (DIY) projects accounted for 37 percent of all home remodeling projects performed nationwide. The growing popularity of cable television channels with programming dedicated to home improvement including HGTV and the DIY Network, as well as the financial pressure of the economic downturn, may be inspiring home owners to take on home fixes and decorating challenges on their own.
However, it is important that home owners consider the safety risks, time delays and hidden costs before attempting DIY home improvements. Remodeling industry professionals report that about 30 percent of their work comes from fixing DIY debacles.
Read MoreCheck credentials when hiring a Professional Remodeler
If you’re planning a home remodel, hire a professional remodeler with excellent credentials. The best remodeling results are achieved when qualified remodelers do the work. Click here for more information on renovations! “Remodeling professionals have training, experience, skills, and solid references,” said says Sean Sullivan with Living Stone Construction. “Home owners can hire the best remodeler for the job by checking credentials and choosing the most qualified candidate.” Ask about these credentials when hiring a professional remodeler: Licensing and Insurance All professional home remodelers should be insured and able to display a certificate proving possession of insurance. While not all states require remodelers to be licensed, in those states the remodelers should also be able to share proof of licensure. Insurance and licensing (where applicable) helps to demonstrate that the remodeling firm is in good standing. Education The most skilled professional remodelers not only have experience on the job, but education. This may include designations such as Certified Graduate Remodeler, Graduate Master Remodeler, Certified Aging in Place Specialist, Certified Green Professional and more. These remodelers have invested in continuing education and professional development to keep their remodeling and business skills sharp and better serve their customers. Association Membership Many successful remodelers are members of trade associations like the National Association of Home Builders—Remodelers because it offers business resources and continuing education. Membership also provides opportunity for professional growth and expanding knowledge of the remodeling industry. Excellent References Glowing references are abundant for professional remodelers because happy home owners enjoy sharing their good experiences and appreciation of their newly upgraded space. Ask to speak with previous clients and to see photos of previous home remodels for getting a sense of their customer relations practice and work style. Business Skills Experienced remodelers know how to manage their business, which provides stability and security for their customers. These professionals will provide a written contract for a home remodeling job, as well as guarantees and warranties for their work. Another important sign of honest business practices from a remodeler is outlining a clear payment schedule and not requiring large amounts of cash up front. Professional remodelers should also have a good reputation with the Better Business Bureau and a good credit report, indicating solid business operations. Conduct thorough research when hiring a professional home remodeler so that you hire someone with good credentials. Verifying smart business practices and remodeling expertise will better ensure that your home remodel will be completed successfully. For more tips on planning a home remodel or hiring a professional remodeler, visit www.nahb.org/remodel or contact Living Stone Construction! 828.669.4343Top 5 Remodeling Projects
Home owners considering planning to stay in their home should know about remodeling projects that increase the home’s usefulness and make it better to live in. A 2012 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey of remodelers found the following five most common remodeling jobs. Housing market data reveals that small, smart remodels reward home owners with better return on investment and can help update and customize a home. Review these top five remodeling projects and begin planning to remodel during National Home Remodeling Month. 1. Remodel the bathroom Payback on remodeling a bathroom can reach 65 percent with new fixtures, tile, toilet, vanity and lighting. Low flow toilets consumer less water and can decrease the monthly water bill. 2. Remodel the kitchen A minor kitchen remodel can improve the look and utility of the space without costing a bundle, and yields a 75 percent return. Consider replacing backsplashes, cabinet fronts, countertops, and flooring. Installing low-flow faucets and energy-efficient appliances can also reduce water and energy expenses in a heavily trafficked room. 3. Replace windows and doors Updating windows can also return a solid portion of the investment (73 percent for wood frames and 71 percent for vinyl). New, energy-efficient doors and windows also help reduce energy leakage from the home and can bring down heating and cooling bills. 4. Repair property damage Property damage is a common but unfortunate occurrence. Seize misfortune as an opportunity to customize and upgrade the home. If you are already going to be inconvenienced with major home repairs, take that time to plan and incorporate home remodeling that may have been put off in the past. 5.Whole house remodeling Repairs and replacements of old components and the desire for upgraded amenities were cited as the top reasons for customers to hire a remodeler. Evaluate the use of the entire home to see if it fits your needs. Home owners are repurposing spaces to fit their families and making more efficient use of their home’s square footage and equity, rather than moving to a new home and mortgage. Smart remodeling projects for improving the home can make the home more comfortable for your lifestyle.How to Speak Remodeling
The home building industry celebrates National Remodeling Month in May, but remodeling is popular year-round, and the industry is growing every year. Whether it’s a small cosmetic remodel such as replacing bathroom fixtures, or a major down-to-the-wall-studs overhaul of your kitchen or adding new space to your home, understanding the terminology your professional remodeler is using can be very helpful to ensure you get the finished project you want. See more of Living Stone's renovations here! [nggallery id=55] As you interview potential contractors, this glossary of common terms used by builders and remodelers will help you understand the language of your remodeling project — and help you avoid miscommunication with your contractor. Allowance: A specific dollar amount allocated by a contractor for specified items in a contract for which the brand, model number, color, size or other details are not yet known. Bid: A proposal to work for a certain amount of money, based on plans and specifications for the project. Building Permit: A document issued by a governing authority, such as a city or county building department, granting permission to undertake a construction project. (more…)