As a homeowner, you want your living space to look timeless and beautiful for years to come. This is a common attitude among Americans, and statistics back up the interest in home improvement projects.
On average, an American homeowner spent $10,341 on home improvement projects, up 25% from the previous year. The current home improvement market is a whopping $538 billion.
While you may be focused on upgrading your living space, remodeling the outdoor areas is just as important. Your outdoor space actually deserves more attention since it's exposed to the elements. Plus, a small improvement can increase the value of your property. Not surprisingly, 32% of millennials want to remodel the outdoor areas of their home.
However, these projects are less popular than interior renovations of kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and bedrooms. This means that homeowners have fewer resources at their disposal when it comes to researching, planning and budgeting for exterior improvement projects. There is a chance that mistakes will be made due to a lack of awareness.
We can help you avoid them with a checklist of potential problems. Let's highlight the mistakes you need to avoid when investing in an exterior renovation project:
Mistake #1: Not having a realistic budget
Setting a budget is the best place to start with any home improvement project, and exterior renovations are no exception. You may think that cleaning, landscaping, and exterior painting will cost very little. But as you begin to survey the area, additional needs such as deck repairs and siding improvements may unexpectedly crop up.
A budget can be a lifesaver as it helps you avoid overspending and making impulsive decisions. When planning a budget, you need to consider local rates. If you live in Texas, you'll be surprised by the difference in the cost of living across the state. Austin is 44.1% more expensive than San Antonio, so hiring a siding contractor in Austin, TX may be more expensive than in San Antonio. Material costs may also vary.
Americraft recommends getting an estimate from your contractor before contracting them for the project. You can opt for custom orders to simplify the design and material requirements and fit the project within your budget. Keeping track of your expenses will keep you safe.
Mistake No. 2: Working without a plan
In addition to failing to estimate the cost of renovation, working without a plan is another mistake you should avoid. A well-thought-out plan will prevent mistakes and ensure that work is completed on time and within your budget. In addition, you can be sure that the property will not be disturbed or duplicate work will be done, which could waste time and money.
You may be tempted to start with the most used areas, but the last thing you want to do is overwork them. The better option is to cover the parts that are not yet built. Also, create a written plan and involve your contractors in the planning phase, as they may have valuable insights for better results.
Mistake #3: Not checking the building regulations
Each state has certain building codes and regulations that homeowners must follow when building. These laws apply to renovation projects, especially if you're adding a building to your property. You may also need to get some permits if you're putting a pergola or a swimming pool in your yard.
Before starting the project, be sure to check your local building codes and permit requirements. Obtain the necessary permits, as failure to obtain them can result in hefty fines or legal problems. The good thing about being compliant is that it ensures the safety of the new construction and gives you peace of mind.
Mistake No. 4: Climate factors are overlooked
When it comes to renovating outdoor spaces, you must not ignore the climatic factors of your location. You may like the cladding material you saw online, but it may not be suitable for the humid weather in your area.
Consider Austin's harsh summers, with temperatures reaching 95 degrees and high humidity. The heat can be unbearable for delicate siding materials. Most homeowners choose vinyl siding in Austin, Texas because the material is durable and resilient.
Short-term weather factors also determine the timely completion of exterior renovation projects. Austin homeowners should avoid starting the project in May, October, and June, as these are the months with the most rainfall. There is always a chance that a rainy period will interrupt work and push the project date forward.
Mistake No. 5: Mistakes in the plants
Landscaping is an essential part of any outdoor renovation project. The average American spends more than $8,000 a year on landscaping. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when choosing plants and designing their garden. You need to avoid these mistakes because they can be more painful than you think.
Stick with native plants because they are hardy and require less water, making your outdoor space water efficient. In addition to choosing plants that will thrive in your location, make sure you plant them in the right places. Pay attention to factors like sun and shade, soil type and drainage for best results.
Conclusion
An exterior renovation project is a financial commitment, but it offers homeowners an excellent ROI. From improving aesthetics to creating functionality to increasing the value of your property, you can reap several benefits from an improvement project. To get the most out of the investment, you need to make smart decisions and avoid these costly mistakes.
