As a dad, you want to ensure that your family’s home looks beautiful and stands strong against weather elements and other potential hazards. But with so many different aspects to consider and decisions to make, it can be easy to feel lost or uncertain.
That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide specifically for dads like you looking to lead their families through the process of an exterior home renovation with ease and success — look no further!
Set a Budget
Setting a budget for a renovation project ensures that you don’t end up spending more than you can afford. Determine the maximum amount you’re willing to spend and stick to it as closely as possible. In case of unexpected expenses, keep a contingency fund aside to cover any additional costs. Aim to allocate at least 10-15% of your total budget so you can feel more at ease knowing that you have a safety net in case something unexpected comes up. This way, you can focus on the fun parts of the renovation process, like choosing paint colors and picking out new decor, without worrying about breaking the bank.
Hire Professionals
While it may be tempting to try and save money by doing the renovation yourself, you need to hire professionals for certain tasks. Exterior renovations often involve working with heavy materials and specialized tools, which can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Take the roof as an example. Climbing up and repairing a roof can be tricky, not to mention dangerous if you’re not familiar with the job. It’s best to leave it to experienced roofing contractors who are trained and equipped with the necessary safety gear. Similarly, hiring professional painters will ensure a high-quality paint job that will withstand weather elements for years to come. When you have an expert handling these tasks, you know that the job will be done safely and effectively the first time around.
Obtain Permits
Before starting any home renovation project, check with your local government or homeowner’s association for any necessary permits. These permits ensure that the work is up to code and meets safety standards. It may seem like an extra step, but not obtaining the required permits can lead to costly fines and even having to redo portions of the renovation.
Worst of all, without proper permits, your renovation may not be insured in case of any accidents or damages. This scenario can be avoided by simply taking the time to do your research and obtain the necessary permits before the renovation begins.
Communicate with Your Team
If you are working with a contractor or other professionals, communication is key. Regular check-ins and communication are necessary to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same end goal. The more open and honest communication is, the less likely any misunderstandings will occur.
If any concerns arise, address them promptly to prevent any delays or issues in the project’s progress. Keeping communication lines open can provide you with valuable feedback and help you make informed decisions about your project. By staying connected and informed, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Prepare Your Home and Family
Before taking the plunge, prepare your home and family for any potential disruptions. This may involve finding alternative living arrangements if necessary, especially if major renovations are taking place.
Additionally, you may want to remove or cover any furniture and belongings that could potentially get damaged during the renovation process. And don’t forget about your family’s safety: everyone needs to be aware of any potential hazards and follow safety precautions at all times.
Stay Organized
With so many different aspects involved in an exterior home renovation, you must stay organized. Keep a record of all your decisions, budget breakdowns, and any changes or modifications made along the way.
Having a checklist can also help you stay on track and ensure that everything is completed as planned. Throughout the renovation process, make sure to review your checklist regularly and make any necessary adjustments.
Inspect the Work
As a dad, you want to ensure that the exterior renovation is done right and meets your standards. Don’t be afraid to inspect the work as it progresses and address any concerns or issues with your contractor.
Once the project is completed, do a final inspection and make sure everything is up to par before making final payments. The last thing you want is to discover any problems or defects after the renovation is complete, so take the time to thoroughly inspect the work.
An exterior home renovation is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and the right approach, you can achieve stunning results that will last for years to come. Once all the steps outlined above are finally completed, you can sit back and enjoy your newly renovated home with your family. Remember to document the process from start to finish, so you have a record of all the hard work that went into making your house a beautiful and safe haven for your loved ones.