Process

What is the renovation process?

When considering a renovation, there is a general process that can help make design to completion run more smoothly.

First, it is important to figure out what your needs are and what your wants are. If you understand what it is you are trying to achieve or gain by renovating, it will help the design process.

A good designer will be able to listen to your needs as well as your wants to create the most suitable plans for you. By separating needs and wants you will be able to know what things you absolutely can’t do without and what things would be nice to have but if the design or budget don’t allow, you can do without them.

Another thing to consider is a budget number that you would feel comfortable with so that the contractor knows if you are realistic with your needs and wants.

Once you have your needs and wants sorted out, you are ready to discuss your project with a renovation expert.

Choose someone who has both design and build knowledge that can help you from start to finish. They will be able to make a plan that meets your needs while accommodating as many wants as possible.

Ideally, the renovation expert you choose can create a design plan as well as organize and perform the renovation. The design plan will allow a renovation company to accurately quote on the job.

Be careful when comparing multiple quotes as you want to make sure that the exact same work and materials are being used. Many times a cheaper price can mean corners and materials are being compromised.

Once you have decided on a contractor and are ready to begin the renovation process, you will most likely be able to anticipate the following order to take place.

Typically, on day one of a renovation, the area to be renovated will need to be deconstructed and taken apart or demoed which may include closing off areas to the rest of the house. This may include removing fixtures, flooring, trim, and maybe plaster/drywall and insulation.

Once everything unwanted is removed and disposed of, there may be a need for some re-framing to add or change walls. After framing is complete, it’s time for roughing in electrical, plumbing and heating. These are the parts that are hidden in the walls but are essential for the operation of each system.

Next, if necessary, is adding insulation and vapour barrier. When this is complete, the drywall will be installed as well as the taping of the joints followed by paint. Trim may be installed at this point or flooring depending on the materials being used.

The last step is to install the fixtures as well as the electrical and plumbing finishing. While this seems like a tidy list that is fairly straightforward, sometimes complications can arise that interfere with the projected smooth operations. However, this is often the order to most renovations whether they are small or large and can give you some idea of what to expect and in which order.