Successful Remodeling Projects
A Primer on Keeping Your Sanity During Your Home Remodeling Project
You finally have your plan and are ready to start that project. Now is the time to expect the unexpected and adapt and overcome any obstacles along the way.
You are done with the planning stages for the comprehensive project you have been saving and dreaming about for years. You have hired the contractor whose bid seemed most reasonable and with whom you have the best rapport. Now is the time to roll with the punches, expect the unexpected and move forward one day at a time.
The Demolition
If your project is a remodel of an existing backyard or front yard, your contractor will have to start the project with a demolition of existing structures, concrete, decks, or anything else that is being replaced. Often enough this is an emotional tug-of-war as a part of you looks forward to the new exterior and a part of you has fond memories of activities that have taken place in the old space. If the new project calls for tree removal or the cutting down of other large plants, you quietly mourn their loss as well. For your contractor the demolition of existing structures allows the first look at exactly what obstacles lie ahead.
When the Dust Clears
It will seem amazing how quickly the old landscape can be torn up and removed in preparation for the new construction. According to Tony Criss, of AJ Criss and Associates, a landscape contractor in San Diego, this is where the contractor must assess the situation and decide how to proceed. “With new homes using ‘cut and fill’ earth for each property you generally don’t have many issues. Older homes built before the '80s will often have code problems, as earlier codes were not as stringent as today.”
Criss adds: “often times older homes will have electrical and gas piping in need of repair or out-of-code and even sewer-line issues.” Asked to recall some of the discoveries upon excavation Criss said “we have run into almost every obstacle you can think of including septic tanks which need to be removed, tree stumps and roots, and one of my friends in the business uncovered an Indian burial ground in one homeowner’s backyard.”
Daily Inconvenience
Whereas an exterior project is not as invasive as an interior remodel, it is still important to remember that the process will be at least somewhat intrusive. Depending on the nature of your project you should at least expect a great deal more dust, noise, and lack of privacy during the ordeal. If you have pets needing outside access consult with your contractor for a way to set up a temporary fence. Be prepared for possible gas, water, and electrical disruption as new connections are being established for your project.
Budget
As with all major acquisitions a homeowner generally has set either a detailed or rough budget for the project. Tony Criss suggests “always figure 10% more than the original project estimate.” He cites the unforeseen costs of project design changes, additions, repair possibilities, as well as upgrade choices.
Beginning to Take Shape
At this stage of the project your patience is wearing thin, your privacy invaded, your home a mess, but day by day the project begins to take shape. Whether it is in the framing of patios, construction of gazebos, excavating your pool or other design feature eventually you begin to visualize a finish to the project. This is the beginning of a restoration of your sanity.
