How to Avoid Common DIY Home Remodel Mistakes

diy home remodel

If you’re tired of a bland home environment, there are plenty of cheap and easy remodeling ideas that can revitalize your living spaces. From removing popcorn ceilings to adding new storage space, these DIY projects can greatly improve the overall look of your home. But before you decide to tackle a major home remodel on your own, consider hiring a professional contractor with a solid track record of quality work and an excellent reputation for reliability. In fact, working with a professional may actually save you money in the long run by cutting down on time-consuming mistakes and frustrating snags that could derail your renovation or cause it to fall well short of your expectations.

Before starting any remodeling project, it’s essential to define your goals. Some homeowners confuse the terms “remodel” and “renovation.” While renovating can include a wide variety of tasks, such as replacing cabinet doors or repairing peeling paint, home remodeling is generally more extensive. Moving walls — even non-load-bearing ones, reconfiguring a floor plan and adding on rooms all fall into this category, as do landscaping projects that change the size or shape of your property.

Once you’ve defined your goals, you should then create a plan for your project. Whether it takes the form of sketches, mood boards or simply notes on a napkin, this plan should contain all the details that will keep your home improvement project running smoothly. The plan should also identify the major milestones and their respective due dates. It should also include a budget and a timeframe for the completion of your project. Be sure to include a reasonable amount of wiggle room for unexpected challenges.

One of the most common mistakes that DIYers make is rushing to get started. This can lead to shoddy workmanship and even health hazards like dust allergies. It’s also important to remember that it takes time to acquire the necessary skills to complete a remodel, so don’t try to overcommit yourself.

Another mistake that people often make is not communicating with their contractors. This can lead to misunderstandings and even disputes, which are more common than you might think. The best way to avoid these issues is to be clear and open with your contractor from the start.

Finally, it’s critical to protect your family during a home remodel. This includes setting aside areas of the house for contractors to work, installing child safety gates and electrical covers and storing sharp tools out of the reach of children. It’s also important to prepare your children for the disruptions of a remodel and discuss how it will impact their daily routine. After all, you don’t want to be dealing with a construction site while you’re trying to get them to school on time.

Choosing the Right House Upgrades

house upgrades

Home upgrades are a great way to improve the value of your home, making it more appealing and comfortable. They also increase the energy efficiency of your house, reducing the amount of money you spend on heating and cooling. However, it’s important to make the right choices when doing house upgrades. Choosing the wrong upgrades can end up costing you more in the long run.

If you plan on selling your home in the future, it’s important to consider what improvements will add the most value. You can find out what upgrades will add the most value by consulting with a contractor or local realtor. This will help you determine what upgrades are worth the investment and which ones might not be.

One of the most common reasons for house upgrades is to update old fixtures and appliances. Upgrading your kitchen appliances, for example, can improve your home’s functionality and increase its value. Likewise, updating your bathroom fixtures can make them more attractive and add an extra touch of luxury to your home.

Other upgrades, such as installing a new roof or replacing windows, can improve the overall look of your home. These upgrades are usually very expensive, but they can pay off when it comes time to sell your home.

When deciding on what upgrades to make, it’s also important to think about your own personal preferences. You might want to upgrade your kitchen if you love cooking, but it may not be worth the investment if other people don’t share that interest. You should also avoid making upgrades that are likely to be out of style by the time you’re ready to sell your home.

Some upgrades, such as security systems and smoke detectors, can add a lot of value to your home. They also make your home safer and more secure, which can reduce the risk of theft or fires.

Upgrading your home can be a big investment, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each project before committing. Be sure to consult a contractor or local real estate agent before you begin any major renovations. This will help you decide what improvements are worth the money and which might not add much value to your home in the future.

If you’re building a new home, it’s easy to get carried away when it comes to home upgrades. It’s a pleasure to construct your dream home with the components and finishes you like best, but it’s important to keep in mind that some upgrades are better than others. Some upgrades will be difficult, expensive or even impossible to change later, so it’s wise to invest in them now. Other upgrades, such as high ceilings or granite countertops, can be a good choice because they will enhance the overall appearance of your home and increase its resale value.

Home Repair Contractors

home repair contractors

Home repair contractors are licensed and insured professionals who specialize in a wide range of services to help homeowners make repairs and upgrades. They can perform home improvement projects such as flooring installation, painting, and kitchen remodels. They also can handle non-urgent repair work that needs to be done before a house goes on the market or to address problems discovered during a home inspection.

The home repair industry is highly regulated. Contractors must pass background checks, be licensed and insured, have a good reputation and references, and submit detailed quotes before starting any work. They also must agree to a payment schedule and withhold final payment until all work is complete and any required inspections or certificates of occupancy are completed. Some states even require a home warranty contract, which covers the cost of parts and labor in case a problem occurs after the work is finished.

A general home repair contractor is skilled at a broad range of tasks and can provide an overall assessment of the condition of a home and recommend improvements. Often, they will hire subcontractors to carry out the actual work. This can reduce costs and improve turnaround time, but it can also increase the risk that a job will go over budget or timeline. A reputable contractor will manage the entire process and ensure that all parties involved are held accountable.

Most homeowners will encounter a need for home repair at some point, whether it’s an electrical outlet that won’t turn on or a dripping faucet that needs to be replaced. Some issues can be easily addressed by a handyman or by the homeowner, but others may be so complex, expensive, or dangerous that a professional is needed.

When hiring a home repair contractor, look for a local business with a physical location and strong customer service. Be wary of contractors that show up unannounced and pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. These non-local “storm chasers” can be difficult to track down if there are problems with the work or you need additional repairs later on.

Look for contractors with positive references from previous customers. Ask to see examples of their work and read online reviews. Ideally, you should hire a contractor with a good reputation and at least five years of experience.

Many specialized home repair contractors offer unique services. For example, if you need tilework in your bathroom or kitchen, find a flooring contractor who specializes in the type of flooring you’re looking for. The same goes for window and glass contractors, roofing contractors, electrical contractors, and plumbing contractors. There are also dozens of specialized contractors that don’t fall into any of these main categories, including artificial turf installers, posthole diggers, and bowling alley installers.

Home Addition Companies Near Me

home addition companies near me

Home additions are a smart way to get more living space without having to buy a new house. They can also add value to your property, making it a good investment if you plan on selling the house in the future. However, adding an extension is not a cheap project, and the costs can vary depending on the type of addition, its size, and location, among other factors. In this article, we’ll look at what contributes to home addition prices and how you can save money on your project.

The most cost-effective home additions are bump outs and attic conversions. These projects add only a few feet to your existing structure, and they can be completed at a fraction of the cost of building a second story. This is because extending the footprint of your house doesn’t require foundation work, which can run into the thousands of dollars. Moreover, the cost of the roof is also much lower since it doesn’t need to be replaced. These types of home extensions are great for things like laundry rooms and additional storage.

When you’re adding a room, it’s important to find a construction company that can help you make your vision a reality. A qualified builder will have years of experience and can offer you expert advice to ensure that your project is successful. Moreover, they’ll be able to recommend the best materials and design features to complement your existing home. In addition, they’ll also be able to advise you on any local regulations or compliance requirements that may apply to your project.

While online calculators can provide a rough estimate of the cost of your project, you’ll need to speak with a contractor for an accurate quote. These estimates will take into account the number of hours your builders spend working on your project, materials, and other factors. Labor costs are the largest component of a home addition, and the more complex the job is, the higher the labor costs.

Hiring a professional can help you avoid expensive mistakes and ensure the quality of your project. To protect your interests, you should always choose a licensed company with adequate insurance coverage and business references. It’s also a good idea to hire a company that is a member of a trade association or accredited by an industry body. Also, be sure to shop around for the best interest rates on home improvement loans.

How to Find Reputable Home Remodel Contractors

Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, basement or the entire house, it’s important to hire home remodel contractors who are experienced and reputable. There are a few key questions you should ask any potential contractor to help you decide who to hire for your project.

First and foremost, it’s crucial that you obtain bids from at least three different home remodel contractors. You should never accept a quote over the phone; it’s always best to meet in person and conduct a walk-through with the contractor, discussing the renovation project in detail. This will ensure that the contractor is giving you an accurate estimate. It will also help you compare the contractor’s offerings, as some may offer services that others do not.

In addition to checking local reviews and examining a contractor’s website, you should also check their Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to see how long they have been in business, what types of work they specialize in and whether they have any complaints against them. Ask for a list of local references, then call them to talk about their experience with the contractor. Listen for positive and upbeat responses, as well as any hesitancy or indirect answers that may indicate a problem.

Ask a contractor to provide you with a portfolio of past projects, including before photos, during work and after completion photos. Look for consistency in color schemes, styles and materials used. You should also inquire about whether any blueprints or sketches were used, which will give you an idea of how the contractor approaches a project. Lastly, ask about the timeline for project completion. You should not settle for a contractor who does not clearly articulate how long they expect the job to take.

You should also ask contractors about their insurance policies, as they are required to carry liability and workers’ compensation coverage. Cross any contractors off your list who cannot or will not provide proof of these policies. Also, be wary of a contractor who requests cash payments for any work.

If you’re hiring a general contractor, find out what their process is for assigning tasks to subcontractors and other staff members. For example, you should make sure they are using licensed and insured plumbers, electricians and other tradespeople. If they do not, you could be putting yourself at risk for shoddy workmanship and illegitimate contractor practices.

It’s also a good idea to hire an architect for any major structural changes. An architect is trained in building technology and can verify that the proposed changes will be structurally sound and up to code. They can also help formulate the blueprints, weigh in on design choices and advise you on how to use your space most effectively.

Finally, choose a contractor who uses sustainable and environmentally friendly materials and construction techniques. For example, if you’re remodeling your kitchen, DJ’s Home Improvements recommends replacing oak cabinets with environmentally-friendly laminates. These cabinets are easier on the environment and will save you money in the long run by using less energy to heat and cool your home.

How to Find a House Remodeling Contractor

If you’ve watched HGTV shows or renovated your own home, you’ve probably heard the term “contractor” tossed around. A house remodeling contractor is a design or construction professional you contract to perform work in your home. There are several different kinds of contractors, including general contractors, specialty subcontractors and kitchen and bathroom designers. You’ll want to select a licensed, reputable professional who is familiar with your home’s type and scope of work.

The best way to find a contractor is to ask for referrals from relatives, friends and neighbors who’ve had work done recently. They’ll be able to tell you whether their experience was positive or not and provide you with names and contact information. Then, when you call the referrals, ask a few questions about the contractor’s project. Find out about the timeline, budget, quality of the work and how easy they were to work with.

Another way to find a contractor is by searching online for reviews and recommendations. Some websites allow you to select the type of project you’re planning and then list recommended contractors. Others let you browse reviews, ratings and photos of projects completed by other homeowners. These sites can be a good starting point, but it’s important to follow up with the individual contractors who’ve received high marks and make sure their licenses are up-to-date.

You should also ask potential contractors for a portfolio of past work. Ideally, the portfolio should contain pictures of several projects and include before-and-after shots. It should be clear whether the projects were remodels of existing homes or new construction.

Once you’ve narrowed down your prospects, interview candidates in person. This is an opportunity for you to assess your comfort level working with the contractor, and for the candidate to assess your home and your project goals. You’ll be spending weeks or months in close contact with this person, so it’s vital that you choose someone whose company culture and work style mesh well with your own.

It’s also a chance to check key credentials, such as the contractor’s licenses and insurance coverage. If a contractor isn’t licensed, or isn’t insured and bonded, you should consider hiring someone else.

Another thing to look for is a detailed, written proposal that covers everything from payment terms and deadlines to who will do the work and warranties. Checkbook’s undercover shoppers found a wide range of pricing for similar remodeling projects, so be sure to get several fixed-price bids.

It’s also a good idea to discuss how the contractor will protect your belongings during construction and what their cleanup policy is. You don’t want to find out after the fact that your family heirlooms were damaged by dust or construction debris. Many contractors recommend putting personal belongings into storage during the renovation. Others will suggest covering furniture with plastic sheeting and placing protective floor coverings in the areas to be worked on.

Pamela Anderson Wants No One to Forget About Her Sexual Harassment Allegation on Home Improvement

As the star of a Hulu series, a new memoir and a Netflix documentary, Pamela Anderson certainly has no shortage of headlines. The former Playboy cover model is getting ready to share the story of her jam-packed life with fans in a new memoir, Pamela, A Love Story, which hits shelves Jan. 31 alongside a documentary from the same name. But there’s one thing the woman whose slow-motion run down a beach is a pop culture reference point doesn’t want anyone to forget: that she has been a victim of sexual harassment on set.

In the book, she alleges that her Home Improvement co-star Tim Allen flashed her on the first day of filming in 1991. She claims she was 23 at the time and a virgin, and says the incident made her feel “shocked, embarrassed and humiliated.” Allen has denied the allegation in the past, calling it false and defamatory.

She has since gone on to a career as an actress and activist, appearing on the Broadway stage in her own version of Chicago last spring and starring as Roxie Hart in a television adaptation of the classic musical. She’s also spoken out for various causes, including animal rights (in 2016 she met with Vladimir Putin and top Kremlin officials to help save whales), the fight against online pornography (she wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal alongside Orthodox Rabbi Shmuley Boteach calling it a public hazard) and Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.

On a more personal level, she’s an advocate for the LGBTQ community and has spoken out against bullying. She’s also an author and has been involved in a number of businesses, including the successful sex toys line Pamela’s Collection. Anderson lives on a waterfront property in her hometown of Ladysmith on Canada’s Vancouver Island, where she’s currently renovating a home with her husband and son. She recently planted a tea garden on the property and hopes to learn pottery in an effort to challenge herself with new experiences. She also enjoys baking and cooking, and recently shared a recipe for her favorite breakfast of eggs and toast with the Arc Ady newsletter.

In addition to the aforementioned projects, she’s set to host a Netflix show next year called Pamela’s Cooking With Love. The series will explore plant-based cuisine and features Anderson as sous-chef and host. The show will also feature a variety of guest chefs who will prepare healthy meals for the stars of the series and their families.

How to Find a Quality Home Improvement Contractor

A quality home improvement project starts with using the right tools, materials and professionals. While it can be tempting to keep costs down, you are always better off paying a little bit extra for quality. This is especially true when it comes to hiring a contractor.

You can find a wide variety of contractors that can help with your home renovation projects. Many offer a full range of services, while others specialize in particular areas of the house such as kitchens and bathrooms. When choosing a company, it is recommended that you check their licensing and insurance as well as business references before hiring them to work on your home. You can also use an aggregator service to bundle offers from various providers and choose the best deal for your needs.

The most popular way to add value to your home is by renovating the kitchen. It is a space that most people look at when purchasing a new home and it can make the difference between a potential buyer being interested in your property or not. You can make your kitchen a feature point by installing a new stove, dishwasher or even just painting the walls.

Another area where you can make a significant difference is in your landscaping. Adding some shrubbery, flowers or a garden can really improve your curb appeal and give your house a fresher appearance. You can get some great ideas online and there are a number of home improvement stores that sell pre-made gardening kits to make the process easier.

If you are looking for a quality home improvement project, talk to the team at Purcell Quality. They have a wealth of experience in creating beautiful homes and can provide expert advice to guide you through the entire process. You can contact them via the website or call them on the telephone.

Home Improvement Trends for 2021

Home improvment is the remodeling, renovation or updating of residential property such as homes, apartments, condos and other non-commercial buildings. This may include but is not limited to the construction, erection, replacement, repair or improvement of driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, including hot tubs, terraces, patios, landscaping, fences, porches, garages, fallout shelters and basements. It may also include the installation of heating, air conditioning and water systems.

A home improvment project can be as simple as painting a room or adding in some storage space. Increasing your storage capacity can make it easier to find things you need and keep items organized. Other projects can be as complicated as a kitchen remodel or an outdoor addition. Some projects, such as a new roof or bathroom remodel, can have a high ROI. Others, such as a deck or garden, may have a lower return on investment.

The pandemic drove many homeowners to upgrade their homes, but it wasn’t the only factor behind a spike in renovations. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners were also motivated by repairing worn-out surfaces and finishes, adding features and improving livability, as well as simply wanting a change. Overall, the majority of surveyed homeowners were satisfied with their home improvements, and 39% reported feeling even more satisfaction after completing their projects.

For most homeowners, a few well-chosen home improvement projects can increase the value of their property significantly. However, the types of home improvement projects that have the highest return on investment can vary by location and market. For example, while a custom-built home recording studio may appeal to you and your family, it is unlikely to attract the attention of potential buyers, and could actually have a negative impact on the resale value of your home.

While you’re working on your next home improvement project, remember that safety should always be a top priority. Whether it’s installing new insulation or removing old flooring, you should take the time to read through any relevant instructions and manuals before you begin. Always use caution when working on electrical or plumbing work, and consider hiring a professional if necessary.

Homeowners pushed back their 2021 projects due to cost (52%), supply chain issues (28%), challenges with pro availability (28%) and disruptions to daily life (30%). While these are the biggest obstacles to completing a home improvement project, a little creativity can help you overcome any challenge and turn your house into a dream home. To help get you started, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite home improvement ideas. From the basics like painting and organizing to more complex projects such as a complete home remodel, these tips are sure to inspire you to start making your own upgrades.

Home Improvement’s Tim Allen and Richard Karn Are Up For a Revival

tim allen home improvement

Home Improvement was one of the most popular sitcoms of all time. The show revolved around Tim Taylor, a bumbling host of a cable television show called Tool Time who also raised his family of misfits. Tim was always destroying something or hurting himself in his quest to give a machine “more power.” The show’s combination of clever writing, Allen’s comic delivery and Patricia Richardson’s earthy freshness made it a hit. It’s no wonder that reruns of the show continue to be popular today.

The original show ran for eight seasons and 204 episodes. It earned seven Emmy nominations and won two. Its star, Tim Allen, is now a hugely successful movie actor and his own spin-off series, Last Man Standing, has become a hit. It’s no secret that he and his cast members are fans of the show, which is why they’ve all been open to the possibility of a reunion.

In a recent interview with TODAY, Allen and Richard Karn said that they were up for a reboot of Home Improvement. Karn, who played Allen’s Tool Time cohost Al Borland, was particularly enthusiastic about the idea. “Absolutely,” he said. “It’s been 30 years since Home Improvement, and it was a great show, and I think we all agree that it deserves a comeback.”

However, the big question is whether or not it would be able to recapture the magic of the original show. The truth is that it’s not so easy to bring back a classic. There are many factors that need to be taken into account. One of the biggest is finding the right director. It’s essential that the person in charge of the revival has a good understanding of the show and how it works.

It’s also important that the casting is right. While the original cast was mostly strong, there were a few exceptions. Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played the middle child Randy, left the show in the final season for an environmental study program in Costa Rica. He did not return for the series finale, which aired in 1998. The rest of the cast remained on board, though, and the show’s run was short-lived.

Another factor that could sway a potential Home Improvement reunion is the state of the current economy. It would be difficult for a new series to compete with the original’s massive budget. This is especially true if it’s a live-action remake.

The third and final factor is the popularity of the show’s theme song. The classic tune, which is accompanied by a saxophone and organ, is still played regularly on the radio. It’s also available on iTunes, so it’s easy to download and listen to.

Despite the challenges, there are plenty of reasons why a reboot of the show could work. It would be an excellent way to pay tribute to a classic TV show that influenced a generation. It would also be a fun way to see some of the original cast members again.