12 Reasons Why Your Renovation Project Might Be Prolonged
Remodeling a home is exciting and sometimes a little stressful. It’s a chance to add style and function, but sometimes things happen that delay the process. Here are 12 factors that might prolong your renovation project.
1. Not Communicating Properly
Many delays occur due to a lack of communication. Remodeling requires multiple moving parts, and contractors must communicate with clients and vendors. The construction team needs to ensure everyone is updated about the project’s progress.
When everyone is on the same page, there is less of a chance for delays caused by misunderstandings. All parties should sit down and discuss the timeline and details at the beginning of the project. Also, you should regularly check in with the builders to ensure your design vision is also being met.
2. Poor Weather
Weather is another factor that impacts your renovation project. Rainstorms can postpone construction work, such as adding new siding. You can’t predict the weather, but you can take steps to limit the delays.
Follow the local weather forecast so you can adjust your timeline and plan for specific work based on conditions that day. Have builders perform outdoor work during nicer temperatures, like putting in new windows. Focus on indoor activities, such as drawing up design plans, when it’s stormy.
3. Not Planning Well
Construction projects can waste tons of materials due to demolition and reordering supplies. Another big reason is the lack of planning and tracking. That’s why it’s good to have a proper management system.
Project management software can make this process more efficient. Also, regularly check in with your construction team to get updates on the timeline and costs. When looking for a handyman, ask about their time management skills.
4. Incorrectly Estimating the Timeline
Come up with an accurate timeline at the start of the project. You might have to wait for the first meeting with your builder. Keep in mind that certain items, like custom tiles, may have longer delivery times. Account for this downtime within your overall timeline.
Communicate with architects in advance to draw up a detailed construction plan. It should cover all aspects of the renovation project, from start to finish. You should also consider potential delays, such as reordering materials, waiting on delays in the supply chain, or dealing with faulty equipment. Contractors perform regular maintenance, such as oil changes, to keep machinery functioning.
5. Scope Creep
This is when the project extends beyond the original timeline. Sometimes a homeowner or developer wants to increase the goal of a project midway through. This creates delays while designers determine the new time and resource estimates.
Therefore, define your goals and vision for the remodel early on. Look at design magazines and Pinterest for inspiration and develop your wishlist. Also, consider what projects add the most value, such as redoing your kitchen, and focus on that.
6. Lower Project Funds
Inadequate funding can slow down the progress of any remodel. Collecting proper financing for materials and labor can lead to an extended timeline, so be sure you can fully fund the project before starting.
Plan your budget and speak with contractors to understand all project costs. Make sure to consider hidden ones, including permit fees. You could also hire a financial adviser to help you manage expenses.
Before hiring a handyman, ask about how their pricing works. Speak with multiple people to find the best deal.
7. Not Having a Proper Schedule
Multiple people working on the project must communicate efficiently. Having a schedule ensures contractors and vendors coordinate material pickup to avoid ordering delays that lead to extended deadlines. A clear plan lets builders know what task they must do, keeping the project moving.
Pick a construction manager who is organized and detail-oriented. Ask for references for their past projects to ensure they followed a schedule, and be sure to continue open communication throughout the remodel.
8. Unexpected Preexisting Home Conditions
There’s often the risk of discovering preexisting conditions during demolition. This can include water damage, mold, foundation failure, or termites. These issues can increase costs and delay construction.
Choose an experienced remodeling business and have them inspect your home. They can recommend tests before beginning. Any preexisting problems can be repaired right away, allowing you to adjust your budget and timeline. Be sure to have an emergency fund for potential issues.
9. DIY Projects Gone Wrong
Doing projects yourself may seem like a good idea to save money, as long as you have the experience and time. However, it can increase your budget and timeline if not done correctly.
Many homeowners start a task but don’t complete it because of a lack of time and knowledge. Then they end up hiring a professional, adding to their expenses. Hiring someone from the start saves you stress and long-term costs. Also, keep in mind plumbing and electrical tasks should be left to the experts.
10. Not Planning for Permits and Inspections
Most renovations will require a permit, especially if you’re changing your home’s layout. Not having one can lower your home’s value and lead to fines. The permitting process can take up to two weeks, so you should plan this into your schedule to avoid delays.
Apply for the permit through your local municipal government office. Some may require inspections of your design plans, and the city will send an inspector at specific milestones during the building process. Choose an experienced contractor to prevent permit and inspection delays.
11. Getting Overwhelmed With Decision-Making
You have to make tons of decisions during the remodeling process, including the type of materials. Sometimes this can feel like a lot of pressure, and you can be slower to commit to certain choices. You want to feel comfortable with your selection, but taking too long can extend the process.
Work with an experienced design team if you’re indecisive. They can help you narrow down choices and go to showrooms and stores, and having their knowledge and outside perspective can save you time. Material vendors can help with decision-making as well.
12. Too Many Change Orders
These are any changes to the original contract that influences the timeline or costs. For example, you may want to switch to different flooring materials midway through. This then requires new documentation and ordering the supplies.
These processes can halt construction and lead to long-term delays, so carefully plan out your design before construction starts. Also, agree upon a set budget with the contractor and understand all potential fees. Having a clear vision is essential to preventing an altered schedule.
Top Reasons Your Remodel May Be Taking so Long
Home improvement projects are popular for anyone looking to revamp their space, and some updates can even add value to your home. However, these tasks often take up lots of time. Be sure to consider these factors when planning your renovation project timeline so things go smoothly.
In case you have any architectural, structural, and MEP design including fire sprinkler design requirements, or need to design your home renovation project including structure, and HVAC design, feel free to contact us. We provide you with the full permit set design + T24 for your request.
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Author’s Bio:
Rose is the managing editor of Renovated. She’s most interested in sharing home projects and inspiration for the most novice of DIY-ers, values she developed growing up in a family of contractors.