Hello World! Welcome Friends! If you’re prepared to take on a renovation, you can get so much more property for your money. ‘Move in ready’ homes come with a huge premium, so to get what you’re after within your budget, it’s often worth taking on a project and having some vision about what can be done. However, renovations always come with risks, so when you’re planning your budget it’s important to consider this. Even a house that looks ok on the surface can uncover some nasty surprises, so be aware of what could happen and go into things with your eyes open. Here are some examples, and what you can do about them!
Plumbing
Handling plumbing during home renovations can be tricky and lead to some significant problems. Leaks (whether they’re easy to spot or hidden) can cause serious damage like mold and harm the structure of your home. But it’s not just leaks; if you’re thinking of moving things around like adding a new bathroom or extending your kitchen, the plumbing can end up being a bit puzzling. Changing the plumbing layout (like moving a bathroom upstairs or adding a new one) needs careful planning. You’ve got to figure out how your current plumbing works and if it can handle these changes. Sometimes, it’s obvious where the pipes are, but other times, you might need an expert to check it out. It’s crucial to know what’s behind the walls before you start knocking them down, so if you’re uncertain about your plumbing’s capacity or if you’re planning significant changes, getting a professional plumber to inspect and give advice is a smart move. They can tell you if your current setup can handle the changes you want to make or if adjustments are needed. Moving plumbing elements, especially in older homes, might uncover surprises. Pipes might be outdated, and the water pressure may not be up to today’s standards. A professional plumber can assess the condition of your pipes and recommend upgrades if necessary. They can also guide you on the best materials for your new plumbing needs, ensuring durability and longevity. Consider the layout of your home and the location of existing plumbing when planning renovations. If your dream renovation involves a new bathroom far from the existing plumbing, it might require a more intricate solution. Plumbing isnt just about water supply but waste and drainage too. Adding a bathroom or extending your kitchen means considering not only where the water will come from but also where it will go.
Heating
Along with the actual pipes you have the heating side of things too. Make sure your radiators are working well by releasing any trapped air from them. Furnaces often need a little TLC too- check them regularly and change the filters to keep everything running smoothly and book a furnace repair if it’s not working correctly. If your boiler is acting up, don’t wait around; fix leaks and weird noises ASAP. By setting aside some money for regular checks and fixes, you’re making sure your renovation stays on track without unexpected expenses messing with your budget.
Structural Issues
Beneath the surface, hidden problems like subsidence, rot or pests can all threaten your renovation’s foundations. While you can sometimes see issues by looking out for things like cracks, other times previous homeowners could have covered things up. Allocating funds from your contingency budget to address any structural concerns that come up is a wise move. It’s always worth having a structural survey done before buying any home, go with the most in depth one to make sure nothing is being missed. If a house needs underpinning for example because of collapsed foundations, this can cost many thousands.
Electrical and Wiring
Handling electrical work during home renovations needs attention to detail as overlooking potential issues can lead to all kinds of safety hazards and also limit the functionality of your home. Beyond the obvious concerns of outdated wiring, if you’re thinking about changes like adding new appliances or upgrading your living space you might find hidden challenges are revealed so keep some money in your pot for this. Upgrading your kitchen for instance, might uncover wiring that falls short of today’s safety standards, potentially posing a fire risk. Allocating a portion of your contingency fund for a full electrical inspection is a proactive step. Understanding the capacity of your electrical system is crucial, especially when you’re planning significant changes, a certified electrician can assess your system’s capability, making sure it can handle the increased load without safety concerns and making changes if it needs it. Consider the placement of sockets and switches when you’re redesigning your space, advancements in technology and changing lifestyles might require additional power sources or wiring for smart home devices so bear this in mind with your plans.
Roof Issues
Roof problems can throw a wrench into your renovation plans. Leaks, damaged shingles or clogged gutters can lead to water damage and then secondary issues like mould. To avoid any unexpected expenses, use part of your contingency fund for a thorough roof inspection. Consider hiring a roofing company that uses drone technology for a comprehensive assessment, reaching even the trickiest areas like chimneys. This proactive step helps identify and fix any roofing issues before they become major problems, meaning a watertight and hassle free renovation. A detailed roof inspection not only prevents surprises but also safeguards your home from potential water damage. With drone technology, you gain a precise understanding of your roof’s condition, allowing you to take action on any concerns early on and protect your investment in a seamless renovation.
Damp
Damp walls can put a damper on your renovation goals. Upgrading your basement won’t be enjoyable if dampness becomes a threat. Allocate funds from your contingency budget for a comprehensive damp survey before starting renovations. This preemptive measure reveals potential damp problems, allowing you to address them upfront and maintain a dry and comfortable living environment. To fix damp in a property, first you’ll need to figure out where it’s coming from. If it’s rising damp, where water comes up through the walls, you might need a damp-proof course installed. If it’s caused by rain getting in, check and repair any damaged roofs or walls. Good ventilation is essential, so use dehumidifiers and make sure that rooms are well aired. Treating damp often involves a combination of fixing the root cause, improving ventilation, and, in some cases, using damp proofing solutions too. So be aware of these costs in case you need to take action.
Asbestos
Hidden risks like asbestos can pose a threat to your renovation project. Renovating your attic could uncover asbestos in the insulation, it can also be in walls and floors too- older houses can be riddled with it. Allocate funds from your contingency budget to address potential asbestos issues. One practical approach is to use asbestos testing kits, which you can send samples to specialized companies for analysis. This proactive measure ensures the safety of your home and protects your health, making the money set aside for asbestos management a critical investment in your renovation journey.
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Toodles,
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