There is a mountain of good advice on the Internet these days about how to implement DIY home improvement projects. And alongside all of those good ideas inspiration from, there has probably never been a better time to give your home an upgrade. The best part is, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! After all, there are plenty of ways to save money on DIY remodeling projects.
A lot of folks are understandably squeamish about taking on such projects, but paying professionals always comes with additional cost.
The good news is that you can stretch your home-improvement dollars by taking advantage of a few simple do-it-yourself tips.
Manage Your Time Effectively
There are many benefits of doing up a house that aren’t just to do with how everything looks. Introducing more sustainable designs, and increasing the overall efficiency of the house — including your home appliances — can actually end up paying for a lot of the cost itself over the long term.
Figuring out where to focus your time and energy is important! By doing so, you’ll ensure that any home improvement project doesn’t end up failing before it begins.
Have a Design Plan
Because so much of our time is spent there, many homeowners choose to begin their renovation process in the kitchen. Start by constructing a complete design plan of the area you want to work on. And don’t forget to include a map of where the wires are located, and a plumbing plan! Nobody wants to discover additional expenses are required simply because house wiring or plumbing needs to be relocated.
Identify Your Storage Space
Next, be sure to identify all of the storage space that you’ll need for the room. While you’re at it, also determine if any fixtures and appliances that need to be updated. Upgrades that create more space simply by being more ergonomic can make a huge difference. It also costs a lot less than shelling out additional cash for a room extension! Find ways to utilize all of the available space. For example, pull-out shelving or larger cabinets that maximize storage can make all the difference in the world.
Don’t Forget the Garage!
The garage is another overlooked aspect of the home that can be easily upgraded. For instance, converting a garage into a new bedroom or living space can add immense value to almost any home, as well as increasing its functionality. A garage door service could help with finding ways to update the look from the outside as well, to bring it up to speed with the rest of the house.
Use Recyclable Materials
Today many homeowners are using recycled materials, with many companies and designers making the most of recycled timber to create an authentic feel while also cutting down on unnecessary costs. Searching for materials that are unwanted by someone else, but may look perfect in you own home, can also end up being a lot of fun.
Frankly, there are many remodeling tasks that can be accomplished without having to rely on professionals to get the job done — and the end result, when done properly, is always more gratifying. Thankfully, by looking around for the most suitable materials at the best price — and being prepared to think outside the box — saving money on a home remodel has never been easier.
Photo Credit: wwarby
awesome article
My husband does all the electrical work in the house and insists it’s easy, but if it weren’t for him, I would hire a professional.
On the other hand, I think that plumbing is one thing that many people outsource, but they could do it themselves. There are plenty of tutorials on Youtube and elsewhere to watch, and knowing how to do your own plumbing can save tons of money.
I’ve been a carpenter for over 40 years and will offer a wee bit of advice.
Know the difference between cosmetic and structural changes. Terms like bearing wall, and code, are significant. Plus, you can be sued if someone trips or gets hurt on your ‘jobsite’
If you do electrical best to pull a permit and ensure all work is up to code before calling for an inspection….OTHERWISE, if you have a fire, whatever the cause, your insurance might not cover it.
Take pictures of framing and electrical before covering up walls for obvious reasons. Good to have a record …just in case.
Some jurisdictions require permits for just about everything, and some places do not. If a ‘good neighbour’ calls the by law dept on your new reno expect to pay a fine before pulling the required permit. There is also software that allows inspectors to observe aerial views over time to catch new decks, sheds, shops,…all supposedly hidden by fences and hedges. Then, they come a callin’.
Disclaimer, I live in a non inspection area in a rural location for a reason. Also, I do all work and all required trades. Any specific questions I ask friends who work in other building trades for their advice. Plus, I pay them for their time with cash or a return favour. Now pushing 70 I have just decided to hire a roofing company for a new roof this spring. My wife laid down the law on that one for obvious reasons. Metal roofs are slippery!!!!!
And last, if any homeowner hires someone for help on a project do not hover or follow the renovator around….. cleaning behind them and talking. Show them the bathroom, the coffee pot, and then leave them alone with “I will be _______if you need anything. Otherwise, I will leave you alone.” I built new kitchen cabinets for a neighbour a few years ago, someone who has a cleaning and anxiety disorder. In the middle of installation she was hovering behind me with a vacuum cleaner and kept interfering with my progress. I finally told her one more time I would pick up my tools and go home. We laughed about it but…..