Are you planning on making improvements to your home this year? Before you start working on a project, make sure you don't become a victim of the myths surrounding home remodeling. Getting carried away by the advice presented to you can lead to costly mistakes. When an inexperienced renovator attempts some home improvements, a home can often suffer more damage. Even with extensive research, much of the advice provided can be contradictory, and when making a big investment, it is essential to know what is true or false. Here are seven of the top home improvement myths. 1. You can do it all yourself Since most of us tend to tackle our own projects when it comes to home improvement, it's essential to have the proper tools and resources to complete the task. Some of the most expensive jobs that can be done to your home are fixing faulty paint jobs, knocking down a wall, and replacing electrical wiring. Although you might save a few hundred doing it yourself, a failed design could cost you a lot. 2. Investing in renovations will always yield a good return If you're planning on making improvements to your home, you should keep in mind that spending more money won't provide you with a better return. Many people spend their lives dreaming about their home's potential upgrades. However, in some cases, it's unlikely they'll be able to recoup more than the construction costs. Most people can expect to get around 60 to 80 percent of the cost of their home improvement project back. For instance, if you're planning on improving the living area of your home, consider investing in upgrades that will make it more comfortable. 3. Paint can cover up anything Before you start painting, it's vital to prepare interior walls for a smooth finish. Make sure there are no ugly holes or cracks. While you can fix these issues using a multi-purpose Polyfilla or a sander, calling in the professionals is probably the best option. 4. It is more cost-effective to repair something than to replace it. Although we love to keep up with the latest interior trends, it's important to keep in mind that different styles don't work in every space. For instance, if you're planning on making improvements to your home, avoid expensive materials for walls, floors, and countertops that follow a new trend. Try incorporating trends in easy-to-change ways, such as through accessories, since people tend to tire of them quickly, and interior design ideas are constantly evolving. 6. Remodelling happens quickly If you are considering a whole house remodel, it is usually best to hire a good contractor as it may take several months to complete the project successfully - even up to a year for larger houses, with potential delays. Doing the work yourself could result in an unfinished project, so it is advisable to leave it to a professional.
7. Good planning can outwit surprise No matter how much you plan, it is often not until after a contractor starts work on renovations that unanticipated problems in your house are revealed; these can include a leak, pests, and previous fixes. When planning your renovation, strive to follow your plans and not exceed your budget. Allow for a 10% contingency in case unexpected expenses arise during the course of the project.