Contractors aren’t shy about sharing the importance of updating utilities and upgrading storage during a remodel. There’s a decent chance you already knew this. That’s why we’re sharing a few less-often discussed details today.
To be fair, you’ll always fail to anticipate something during a project. Hence, we pad the budget for unforeseen circumstances. The details we discuss today are all about boosting your satisfaction with the results, as well as any returns you’re hoping to see from them.
Here are the remodel details your contractor doesn’t want you to overlook.
Always make the most of your home’s layout.
There’s a debate brewing constantly about what’s in or out in home design. Are open plan layouts out? Are singular, enclosed rooms making a comeback? In the long run, contractors say, this doesn’t matter. Every home is unique, and what’s best should be handled on a case-by-case basis.
If you want to open things up, it’s good to consider combining kitchen and dining areas first. Living areas and bedrooms often stand individually without much issue. If you already have an open concept, entertain improving the flow before making a final decision to build walls.
Another issue contractors face with layouts are homeowners who don’t plan for transition spaces. If you’re creating defined spaces with flooring, decide what that threshold should look like.
Lighting fixtures are more important than you think.
Sure, you can leave the installation of light fixtures for last. But you should be browsing and ordering well before.
Many contractors, especially those helping prepare a property for sale, bemoan how lighting fixtures become an afterthought. It’s not just your room that suffers. A pendant from a home improvement store or (perish the thought) a dome light won’t exactly highlight the contractor’s best work.
Even if you’re not planning to sell, don’t drag your feet on a lighting design. They make or break overall impressions in enclosed spaces.
The small decisions contractors are left to make matter.
You’re doing your first post-remodel deep clean. You find you’re not a huge fan of these medium density fiberboard baseboards. It also has a stepped design that looks a bit modern in your traditional space.
Maybe you didn’t care much before, but you kind of do now. This is how it goes with many small decisions you wave off and leave to a contractor. A remodel isn’t just your chance to choose paint, cabinet door styles, or faucets. It’s also your time to ask questions, review options, and choose grout color, door hinges, switch plates, and other minute details.
Refreshing the kitchen countertops during a partial remodel.
Some homeowners don’t need a full kitchen remodel, or simply aren’t ready for a variety of reasons. Good contractors don’t mind this. It can be logistically or financially wise to phase a remodel.
However, if you’re trying to give an older kitchen a quick, effective facelift, you can’t ignore the counter. Contractors absolutely dread refacing cabinets and updating appliances only to leave a scuffed Formica countertop in place.
Replacing countertops alongside any alternations to cabinetry is always a smart idea. While your best options are expensive, they offer a higher ROI than something like a new backsplash or oven.
Remember that a contractor isn’t a designer.
Contractors have a lot on their plates, from securing permits and any necessary subcontractors, to keeping you on budget and ensuring that the work is high-quality.
Designers are the professionals that help complete your concept, bring it to life, and sort out small details. They introduce you to materials, finishes, and other features that promise your best possible result. The right pro can help you make decisions, anticipate challenges with the design, and build on your ideas.
There is a way to get the best of professional design while connecting with the right contractor, and it’s with The Designery. Each of our locations offers professional design services, a wide range of materials and products, and quality installation. Check out what The Designery has to offer, book your free consultation, and get on the path to a remodel that makes your home feel complete.
