Marc Paillé
Blog
Tuesday September 23, 2008
How brave are you?
The scale of renovations in a house can be broken down into 4 categories depending on what you have to start with.- The first is the simplest when you have the appropriate space and layout but need some aesthetic improvements for whatever reason. Considering how individual peoples' taste is, this scenario is very common. (some people's taste should remain individual) .
- The second enters into the category of serious work with the renewal of kitchens and bathrooms. Along with this category, electrical and plumbing upgrades often go hand in hand. Many of my clients can handle this category with a little bit of preparation.
- A more extensive renovation would still be working with the raw space but gutting all of the walls if the lath and plaster has lost its sense of purpose.
- The last category is when you want to seriously alter layouts, add rooms or an upper floor addition. This last one truly requires either previous experience, or a trusted contractor with a track record combined with sufficient funds.
Be prepared for lots of twists and turns, probable delays and cost overuns. My recommendation to anyone who has not been though it before is to start small unless you have the patience of a congregate listening to a fundamentalist sermon and the money of a televangelist. Hiring an architect may add a cost to the project but is well worth the money provided the architect is experienced and qualified.I've seen too many poorly thought out renovations to leave the architect out of the process. They help with many issues and provide ideas that you may not consider but will enjoy in the end. Think Good, Light, Close (Slowhome)