Busting your budget on renovations is probably the biggest fear that homeowners have when it comes to improving their existing homes. It can be difficult to end up not spending more than you have allotted so what can you do to stick with your budget home remodeling plans?
There is no need to buy dirt-cheap labor and materials just so you can bring about a look that you desire. There are ways to cut costs without actually cutting corners. Sometimes, it is as uncomplicated as buying a new wall sconce. A general truth about home renovations is that even the smallest projects can add up in the long run. So learn to save by following some tips –
Focus on Efficiency
Who said that gaining square footage can only be achieved by toppling down walls? If you are creative enough in using budget home remodeling designs, then all you have to do is to reorganize a few things or equip your kitchen to its optimum utility.
Look for spaces that are hogged by cabinets and shelves – these should be the things that need to be replaced. If you want to have more space in a room, then make use of the vertical space that is available. Instead of having pullout drawers in level with your waistline, why not have a cabinet installed a foot or so above your head? This is a great storage space for pots, trays and other kitchen stuff.
Same Number of Windows, More Lighting
Before you even begin cutting a big hole on the side of your home; or before you even rearrange the framing, find a less invasive means of inviting more light into your home. To let in more light inside a windowless hallway or bath, have a light tube installed. This can be easily installed between the roof rafters. This should channel the natural light down to your targeted space.
The cost for this project is only $500 as compared to the $1,500 cost of installing a double-pane, insulated window.
Use Recycled Materials
DIY fans gain big savings if they buy slightly used or recycled stuff. There are many salvaged materials out there if you want to start a do-it-yourself project. Hiring a contractor that would agree to work with recycled stuff could be difficult. Many of them do not want to touch such items in the belief that they will assume liability should something go wrong.
If you are pushing through with a remodeling project, then invite some people who can take fixtures and old stuff from you. This is a great way to help the environment since the landfill won’t take in your trash.
You and Your Demolition Team
If there really is a need to knock down walls and other parts of your home, then have the demolition done by you and some of the people that you know. Just make sure that you have the right tools and ample know-how.
Many designers dissuade against such a project, though. While it may be easy to demolish the deck outside of your home, it is a totally different story once the demolition job is taken indoors. You could destroy weight-supporting columns or walls and end up hurting yourself or your loved ones. If you are uncertain about how to proceed with this project, then just ask for help. Professional contractors can do the task at a certain fee. The total cost for the pros is at $1,000 plus the dumpster and rental permit fees at $450 should give you quality work that you might not reap from your DIY project. But if you insist on pursuing budget home remodeling, then just proceed with caution.
