DIY: Should I Tackle Renovating Myself?

Doing your own renovation isn’t always the cheapest solution. But when you can do it right, and do it well, it can be rewarding.

Professional design/build contractors may have an understanding of every aspect of renovation, but they also have a full range of tradesmen available in their renovation tool box. From general carpenters, roofers, plumbers, electricians and painters, at PROBUILT by Michael Upshall, we know when to call in the troops to tackle certain aspects.

But, if you have the time, the skill level required for the task, and own or can get your hands on the quality tools you will need, then there is nothing more satisfying than a job well done.

It’s all about checks and balances. So before you tackle a renovation yourself, make sure you can pass this checklist:

Be Realistic:  Have a “Plan B” as well as a “Plan C” in mind, just in case you get in over your head. Sitting in on a course at a big box store doesn’t make you an expert. Make sure you have the skills and know-how to do the task at hand. A bad renovation stands out more than a good one, and poor workmanship is glaring.

Plan, plan, plan, & plan some more:  You know the saying, “Measure twice, cut once.” Apply it to every aspect of your renovation by preparing a checklist for everything you do, and checking it twice. The better the planning, the smoother the execution. Checklists are your blueprint plans and hopefully will keep your chequebook in balance.

Budget:  Money matters and you must keep a handle on it. If you budgeted $5,000, your plans should be designed to spend only $5,000, and you should not buy materials without checking your plans.

Know the Local Building Regulations:  Sometimes municipalities don’t make it easy to acquire permits, but they are necessary. Consider it a stamp in your renovation passport. If you can’t get a permit, then the renovation isn’t to code and, most likely, not a good idea.

Expect the Unexpected:  Keep an eye on your expenditures. Try to be one step ahead, and foresee problems. It’s easier to catch and fix them when they are small.

Work Site:  Designate a work area. Do not invade and take over the kitchen; the family breakfast table is not your workbench!

Protect your Investment:  There is a reason why the better renovation professionals carry a minimum of 2 million dollars in liability. Call your insurance company and make sure you have sufficient coverage.

 

Ready to renovate? Pick up a pencil and begin designing your plans.