Key Remodeling Considerations
My Remodeling Expertise
You’re considering a home remodeling project but quickly realize you need a better understanding of the elements involved and how they work together to deliver your desired results.
We’ll give you the baseline understanding of these elements and the impact they could have on your project both short and long term. Depending on your specific needs, we can work with you as your project unfolds.
Our contractor-agnostic approach ensures you’ll get an accurate assessment without “skin in the game”. We work for you, providing expert advice you can rely on.
Below you’ll find areas common to most projects.
Design
Most clients have a vision for their project but want to better understand how that vision translates into a remodel and its cost. It’s easy to generate project renderings, but it’s critical to understand how design meets execution for your project.
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Electrical
Are you familiar with potential wire types within your home (various iterations of Romex, knob and tube, aluminum, copper)? How about transitioning between wire types? What about power requirements, wire gauges, and breaker ratings?
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Framing, Drywall, and Insulation
What size/type of framing lumber is used – dimensional/solid lumber, I-joists, or engineered open truss? Are the walls in the project area load-bearing? Is the drywall moisture-resistant or standard? How thick is the drywall? Is insulation being installed? How about R-value of the insulation? And sound insulation?
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Plumbing
Are you familiar with the ins and outs of various types of pipes (Copper, Cast Iron, PVC, CPVC, PEX, Lead) and fittings (Soldered copper, copper press, push connect (often referred to as Shark Bite), PVC/CPVC glued, PEX Crimp? How about transitioning between pipe types? What is drain venting and “fall”? What about plumbing fixtures like faucets, shower controls, tubs, sinks, toilets, etc.?
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Tile and flooring
Tile is often involved in remodeling projects, with colors/styles, sizes, layouts, patterns, and grout color choices being almost infinite.
Did you know that the exact same tile with different layouts and/or grout colors can create completely different looks?
There’s also LVP flooring, sheet vinyl, hardwood flooring options and carpet.
Each flooring choice has its upsides and downsides that you need to understand.
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Specifications and Cost Estimates
The importance of detailed specifications in estimates cannot be understated. Overall process and timelines, demolition, framing, drywall work, tile substrates and installation, materials, methods and fixtures, plumbing work, electrical work, and overall project management are critical to success.
In addition, specifications on how your contractor bills for unforeseen circumstances and change orders will be crucial as the project unfolds.
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Cabinetry
Many remodeling projects include cabinetry, but are you aware of the different types of materials and construction methods used for cabinetry? How about the various build styles (overlay doors, inset doors, frameless vs. framed, finishes available) And what type you should consider for your specific project?
Each of these cabinetry elements will contribute to the overall look and longevity of your project.
Informed clients get better results – Get the knowledge you need from the Coach!
Logistics and Project Management
Every remodeling project has important logistical elements to understand prior to startup. For example:
- What are my responsibilities before and during the project?
- Who is the central on-site point of contact / Project Manager?
- What are the timelines and progress checkpoints?
- Are you using sub-contractors or full-time employees?
- What time does daily construction typically get underway?
- Will there be a dumpster onsite?
Answers to these and other questions prior to project startup ensure a smooth and timely remodel with minimal surprises.
The Coach’s No Markup Approach Saves You Money
Did you know most contractors add a “mark up” to all materials and components for your project? Well, not at The Home Improvement Coach!
With our expert guidance on products and sources, our clients purchase “fixture side materials” (tile, cabinetry, faucets/sinks, bathtubs, countertops, etc.) – directly from their supplier of choice. We’ll help by recommending product types, brands, and potential suppliers, but the final choice is yours! And of course, we’ll be there to confirm functionality and compatibility as you make your selections.
The Home Improvement Coach will purchase the “raw construction materials” (lumber, drywall, plumbing and electrical components, etc.) for your project, but again, with no mark up! You can use these dollars elsewhere in the renovation or save on your total project cost.