There's no denying the excitement of home renovations. Imagine a bright, shiny new kitchen, an updated finished basement, freshly painted walls, and additional rooms that make a house a home. But before a home renovation Calgary project really kicks off, there's an essential step that gets overlooked: preparation.

It's true, the planning stage of the renovation process isn't the most exciting of the steps, but there's so much to be gained from an adequately planned renovation and a lot of stress to be saved. The bigger the renovation, the more important it is that the house is prepared.

This guide will provide steps to prepare you for your renovation and ensure the process is easier for everyone involved.

The Importance Of Preparation For Home Renovation Calgary Projects

The age and style of Calgary homes varies greatly. The prominent older homes in Mount Royal and Bridgeland contrast the new homes cropping the suburban sprawl. Calgary’s famous weather and a packed contracting schedule only add to the unique challenges of Calgary home renovations.

Skipping any part of the preparation step most commonly results in:

• Unplanned delays due to a lack of permits

• Increased costs due to last minute alterations and changes

• Damage to belongings and home

• Stress for you and your family

The best way to make sure that a renovation is finished within the budget and time limit is to give enough time to prepare for it.

Step 1: Set a Detailed Budget and Scope

Clearly define the purpose of your project before reaching out. Will the work occur in just one room, or will the work be throughout the entire house? Make a list of your project essentials, as well as the less important items.

It is advisable to set a budget with a small buffer. Something unexpected may always occur when doing a renovation, and old homes tend to have some problems with their plumbing and electrical systems. We suggest a cushion of 10-15% on your budget.

Step 2: Pick the Right Calgary Home Renovation Company

Getting this choice right is very important as the best Calgary home renovation company will be an asset in helping you with permits and will help define the project scope and the timeline. On the other hand, a misfit company will give you nothing but migraines.

The following should be the bare minimum:

• A strong portfolio of successfully completed renovations in your area

• Contracts with a clear scope of work and timeframes

• Licensing and insurance

• Good pre-qualification communications

We do our business with a professional contract and we also have a good portfolio of local renovations. Right from that first phone call to your last walk-through, we will assist you with your queries.

Step 3: Remove the Work Zone Clutter

Declutter the Work Zone

Remove all items from the work zone, including furniture and décor. Personal effects should also be removed. If the work is on the kitchen, pack away all kitchen items to provide the crew with space and also to prevent the work zone from being unnecessarily crowded.

Safeguard Furniture & Floors

Regarding the most affected areas, cover up the furniture with sheets and cover the floor with appropriate covering materials. While most of the construction teams in Calgary provide protective materials themselves, one can ask the contractor for confirmation.

Step 4: Prepare for Daily Life During the Renovation

Remodeling (especially in the case of kitchen and bathroom remodeling) can bring about a lot of disturbance to your regular schedule. The following things should be kept in mind:

• How you will prepare meals

• Where you will go to the bathroom (if there is only one available)

• How you will cope with the dust and noise (if you work from home)

• Where you will take pets and children (if they need to be kept away from the work zone)

Some homeowners opt to stay with family members or in a rental during the major renovations. The less major renovations tend to disrupt daily life less. Regardless, the disruptions are less severe if planned in advance.

Step 5: Handle the Permits

Most renovation projects in Calgary need permits, especially if there will be changes to the structure, or if there will be electrical or plumbing work. A good home renovation company in Calgary will generally handle this, but it is beneficial to have an idea of what is required prior to work commencing.

Step 6: Give a Heads Up to Your Neighbors

Should the renovation you intend to carry out produce noise, involve many vehicles or many deliveries, it would be a great move to inform your neighbors ahead of time. This will go a long way in ensuring that you maintain good relationships with them.

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Beginning demolition without obtaining permits

• Not budgeting for unforeseen repairs

• Not having a feasible remodel timeline with your contractor

• Not protecting your items in close proximity to the construction

• Hiring a contractor based solely on the lowest bid without regard to qualifications

FAQs

How long does a Calgary home remodel take? 

It depends. One bathroom can take 2-4 weeks, while an entire home can take several months. Your contractor will provide a schedule for the remodel.

Is a permit required for a remodel in Calgary? 

Most structural, plumbing, and electrical changes will require a permit; however, most surface changes will not. A contractor will know for your project.

Should I move for a large remodel?

It all depends on the scale of the remodel and what sections of your home will be affected. A remodel that involves the kitchen or the whole home will need you to find new accommodation; however, a small remodel will enable you to continue living in the house.

What is the best way to select a remodel company in Calgary? 

Review past work, ask for referrals, verify licensing and insurance, and be aware of the initial meeting. A good company will be clear on the scope and costs of the project.

What else do I need to budget for besides the renovation quote? 

For older homes, it is common to find hidden problems after the renovation begins, so it is best practice to add an additional 10 to 15 percent to your total budget for those unexpected costs.

Will renovations force me to relocate? 

Most likely, no. You will have to make some adjustments and accommodations for the noise, dust, and not having access to all the rooms during the project, but it is completely doable to remain living in the home for a lot of renovations.

Are you ready to get your project started?

The start of the renovation process is not simply about organizing the area. There are also issues of budgeting, obtaining permits, and choosing your crew. Planning and obtaining permits before the process of renovation will save you much time and hassle.

If you are planning a home renovation project in Calgary and want a team that handles the details with you, not just for you, look no further than Aim Builders. Reach out to us today to discuss your renovation plans and get a clear and honest project timeline.