How to Do Basic Remodeling in Your Own Home

If you have long wanted to remodel a room in your home, but have refrained because of cost, consider doing some of the work yourself. Many small jobs, such as the installation of lighting or the changing of a fixture can alter the look of the room. If you have a basic understanding of how to use tools, you may be able to tackle a lot of more difficult jobs as well. Keep in mind that home improvement requires both time and patience. If you are running short on either, call a professional.

After you have identified the room to remodel, make a list of the areas you wish to improve. Do you wish to remove old wallpaper and paint? Change an old lighting fixture? Remove a partition wall? All of these are within the abilities of an average homeowner. Keep in mind that a single change might be the only change that is needed. Do not make an overly ambitious list because you are bored with the look of your room.

Now that you have a list jobs that must be accomplished, order by how they must be accomplished. For example, it you wish to replace the flooring in a room and remove a partition wall, you must remove the partition wall first. Otherwise you will have to patch the flooring when you remove the sole plate of the wall.

If you are unsure how to complete any job, or the order in which to complete them, do some research. Your local library will have a variety of books on how to complete small household jobs. Also consider searching the internet for information. If you are a more hands on learner, contact your local home improvement store. Many places offer classes that show you how to complete basic home improvement tasks on your own.

Next, estimate the amount of time required to complete each one. Some jobs require drying time in between steps, be sure to make note of that in addition to the time required to do the work. You can always work on something else while you wait.

Identify the jobs you would like to do yourself, and those you would like to hire a professional to complete. Any major job concerning electricity or plumbing requires a professional, as well as any significant alteration to the structure of your home.

Research with state and local laws what type of building permits you will need. If you are only planning on small cosmetic alterations you might not need one. If you are hiring a contractor, make sure that the building permits and the contract is in order.

For the first few jobs on your list, be sure to purchase the tools and materials you need. Arrange for delivery if needed. Also, call the utility company if the water or electricity must be shut off from the main terminal to complete the work. You will have to schedule this in advance.

If you are attempting any major projects, you will be surprised at the amount of trash your work will generate. Call your town waste management service and find out what their policy is on construction trash. Oftentimes you may have to pay an extra fee to have them take it away. Other towns may require that you haul it to the dump yourself. Using the dump may require paying a fee or it may be a free service.

Stage a storage area for new and old fixtures and materials. You should attempt any remodeling project with the objective of disturbing the area around the room as little as possible. Consider how dust and dirt may track itself from room to room and make plans accordingly. Also make sure that if you are using paint or other noxious substances you have proper ventilation in the area you are working.

If you work carefully and methodically you should be able to easily finish a simple remodeling plan. If you ever feel yourself getting frustrated, clean up and take a break. Your impulse may be to finish as quickly as possible, but you’ll have plenty of time to notice small mistakes when you are using your new room. To avoid regret, take it slow the first time. If you get stuck, call a friend or a professional to help with the work.