Home renovation projects promise the possibility of transforming your space into your dream home. However, it’s not uncommon to encounter unexpected problems during the process that can cause delays and increase costs. Consider these five surprises to prepare for in home renovations.
Shoddy past renovations
During your renovation, you might uncover evidence of past renovations that homeowners did not make to code or with proper craftsmanship. These issues can extend your project timeline and increase costs, as you may need to undo and redo these poorly executed modifications.
For example, you might find improperly installed electrical wiring or plumbing, which could pose safety hazards and require professional repair. You may find cut joists that leave behind weakened floors or framing completed with studs that are too small or of poor quality. Fixing these problems will add considerably to your budget.
Damage from prior water leaks
Water damage often hides behind walls and under floors, making it difficult to detect until you start your renovations. Where water has been leaking, you may also find mold and structural damage. The possibility of water damage is one of the surprises to prepare for in a home renovation.
The possibility of hidden water damage is one of the facts you may not have known about bathroom renovation. Be sure to include at least a 20 percent contingency in your budget to address a costly surprise, such as the need to replace or repair plumbing, sheet rock, or subfloors.
Hazardous materials
Older homes may contain hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead-based paint, which, if disturbed during renovations, can pose serious health risks. It’s essential to have a professional inspect your home for these substances before starting your renovation. If found, you’ll need to hire professionals to safely remove or encapsulate the hazardous materials.
Pest infestations
Another unpleasant surprise you may encounter during home renovations is pest infestations. Termites, carpenter ants, rodents, or other pests can cause significant damage to a home’s structure. Discovering an infestation during renovations could mean additional expenses for pest control services and repairing any damage the uninvited guests caused.
Inadequate framing or floor support
Lastly, you may discover that your home has inadequate framing or floor support for your desired design. This issue may not be apparent until you start removing walls or floors, revealing insufficient or damaged joists, studs, or beams. In such cases, additional work is necessary to reinforce the structure of your home, ensuring its safety and stability.
While home renovations can bring about pleasant surprises, such as discovering original hardwood floors or beautiful brickwork, it’s crucial to prepare for the not-so-lovely potential pitfalls. By being aware of these potential surprises, you can better plan your budget for your remodeling project and prepare for when these surprises appear during your renovations.
