From minor repairs to complete renovations, remodeling your home involves a lot of choices. Homeowners in particular have ideas and expectations that they hope their project will fulfill. However, many of these decisions are based on misconceptions or falsehoods. To ensure you get the most out of your home remodel plans, it’s important to dispel some of the myths associated with this big undertaking. Let’s take a look at some common misconceptions about remodeling, including outdated notions about costs, timelines and design trends.
Myth #1 – Doing a remodel will cost too much money
Remodeling a home can seem like an expensive endeavor but it doesn’t have to be. With proper planning and research, homeowners can repair or upgrade their property without breaking the bank. There are lots of ways to save when taking on renovations such as shopping around for materials and labor, reusing items from other parts of the house, and completing some work yourself. With research and strategic planning, a remodel can become a cost effective endeavor that increases your home’s value.
Myth #2 – Paint can cover up anything
Paint can give a quick facelift to any room, however it is incorrect to think that one coat of paint can cover up everything. While paint certainly can hide minor blemishes, it cannot fix major structural problems in walls and ceilings like cracks, water damage and flaking plaster. Instead of disguising these issues, painting over them will only act as a band-aid solution – making the situation even worse. Patching up structural issues and surfaces before painting them is always the best solution if you want a room that looks and lasts.
Myth #3 – You must wait for the right time of year to start a remodel
According to popular belief, there is an ideal time of year that homeowners must wait for before they can begin planning a remodel. Commonly referred to as “the right time,” this assumption hinders many potential customers from starting their dream project. However, the truth is that there really isn’t such a designated season or month where remodels are more feasible than any other time of the year; instead, when it comes to getting started with renovations, it’s all about being prepared and scheduled ahead. With a solid plan in place and research done on materials and labor needed for the project, home improvement can be started at any point in the year.
Myth #4 – Remodeling your home will increase taxes
Home remodeling is an attractive option for those trying to breathe new life into their living space. However, many people mistakenly believe that any type of remodeling will lead to increased taxes. While not every home improvement will cause a tax increase, renovations involving a superior structure or repairs that are included in an assessment of the property may increase your evaluated value and thus your property taxes. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning any type of expansive home improvement project, as it could have significant financial implications beyond merely the cost of materials and labor.
Myth #5 – All home remodeling projects require permits from your city or town
Not all home remodeling projects require permits. The type and scope of the repairs or renovations being undertaken typically determines whether or not a permit is needed. Small-scale remodeling jobs such as repainting interior walls typically do not require a permit, while additions to your existing structure may very likely require one. Additionally, cities and towns often have specific requirements with regard to particular home improvement projects. To be sure that the work you are doing is compliant, be sure to check with the municipality’s building department to review the relevant regulations. Taking the time to ensure you understand all necessary requirements can save headaches down the road for both yourself and your contractor. There is never a perfect time for renovating your property. You should start when you want to do your home renovation. A home renovation can transform your space. TPM Construction helps bring your vision to life! Contact us for an estimate today.