Guest Blog: Remodelling Expenses - When to Spend and How to Save

by Jenny Zhu
Home remodelling is always an investment for home owners, but that doesn’t mean that every project you want to tackle should cost you an arm and a leg. If you take the time to plan your remodelling properly, you can decide when to splurge and where to save money. After all, if you try to be frugal with every single remodelling project, you may end up with inefficient solutions that will cost you a lot more in maintenance and repairs in the long run. If you’re thinking about transforming your home soon but are unsure about the budgeting, keep on reading.

Lighting Options

Lighting
If you’re ready to take on a big remodelling project, increasing the number of windows so that you can maximise the natural light indoors is definitely worth the money. After all, benefits of natural light are numerous. On the other hand, if you’re just dealing with artificial lights, you may want to invest in the main accent lighting and save on other extra fixtures in the rooms.

Install your own flooring to save money

Floors
In case you’re keen on getting new flooring, always invest in durable and sustainable materials. This also goes for carpets and rugs. Fortunately nowadays there are plenty of both affordable and durable options available that offer a wide selection of patterns, too. Still, it’s always better to go with readily available sizes and colours/patterns (there are plenty to choose from) since having something custom-made can cost you a lot more than necessary.

Kitchen Counters

Kitchen
You really don’t need the most expensive material for your kitchen counters, countertops and cabinets. These days you can get various patterns even from the more affordable materials. This is where you should try to save your money. But, when it comes to the functionality of your kitchen, you should splurge. The layout should work well with the size of your kitchen, so don’t try to fit more things than possible. Also, reliable fire ducts can protect your walls and ceilings in case of fire so don’t try to work around them. Functional and efficient appliances are a must, but even here you don’t have to buy the most expensive ones. Do your research and check the feedback, and then pick the appliances that provide a variety of options that you’d need.

Architecture Blueprint

Architectural Details
Architraves, cornices and skirting boards are some of the most effective ways to spruce up an otherwise plain space. Timber mouldings look great in traditional homes. In that respect, these details are worth the investment, especially if you want to keep the rest of your decor minimal. But, you can still save some money on the mouldings as well. For instance, you can go for a narrower but more decorative architraves or wider but plain skirting boards.

Smart Home Gadgets

Electronics
When tech and gadgets are concerned, your best option is to always go with the most modern electronics available. That way you can be sure that you’ll get the most out of your tech for years to come. Also, keep in mind the effective techniques for hiding the cables. To save money on this particular project, opt for all-in-one system solutions to avoid more cables, cords and plug-in outlets.

Deck in backyard

Outdoors
In case you’re also planning to do some remodelling in your yard, keep in mind that a nice deck and a driveway will always make the place look and feel better. You can build the deck on your own to save some money if you have the necessary skills. On the other hand, you can save plenty when it comes to landscaping. Just make sure to mow your lawn and choose year-round plants for your planters. There’s no need to splurge on seasonal or exotic plants, hire gardeners and create extravagant gardens if you aren’t planning to do any work on your own.

Insulation

Insulation
Investing in a proper insulation system is a splurge that will save you money in the long run. When your home is properly insulated, you won’t need to waste as much energy during the summer to cool it or during the winter to warm it up.

Storage unit

Storage
Storage is always necessary, but only invest in completely new storage solution in areas where you and your family members would benefit from it. There’s no point in fitting a storage area only to have it reduce the functionality of the space completely. What’s more, you can boost the storage room in your existing storage units by installing cheap hardware store boards and even hanging storage racks for the storage doors that you could place from the inside.
Even if you plan everything properly, it’s important to have potential hidden costs in mind for when it comes to remodelling. Contractor consultations, land restrictions, custom-sized window and door furnishings, as well as renting the equipment if necessary can all affect the final price. This is why it’s crucial that you’re aware of the possibility and avoid a nasty surprise.
 

About the Author:

Guest Blogger Kevin JKevin has gone through an extensive home renovation with his son, which he has both thoroughly enjoyed, and dreaded every morning. He is now the proud owner of half his dream house (the other half has been waiting for spring). You can read more of Kevin's work at PlainHelp.
 
 
 

 
 
 



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