Step 1: Planning
Nail down a budget.
The most important aspect of the planning process is ensuring you have enough money to pay for the project, regardless of how big or small the scope of work may be.
he various costs that factor into a house remodel can be much different than you think, so start a running list of all your must-have and want-to-have items in a spreadsheet.
Then, do some quick research to determine average costs for those items, and tally it all up to get a better idea of what it would cost.
he most difficult aspect of budgeting is estimating the cost of labor.
However, it’s generally a safe bet to plan for labor accounting for 20-40% of your total budget.
Your budget should also include a 10-20% contingency depending on the size and complexity of your project.
Step 2: Demolition
Once you have your plan in place and you’ve chosen your contractor, it’s time for demolition to start.
A dumpster is ideal for keeping a project moving efficiently because you can remove debris from your home as it’s demolished.
This will minimize the mess and enable you to finish the project as quickly and smoothly as possible.
If you decide to do any of the demolition work yourself, exercise caution and follow all safety precautions.
Demolition can be very dangerous, especially when performed haphazardly.
Step 3: HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing
Once your demolition work is completed, the “rough-in” process can start.
This involves any work done beneath floors or behind walls, like installing ductwork for central heating and air conditioning, installing new electrical and plumbing systems, etc.
This is when plumbing and electrical inspectors will need to come inspect your home and ensure you have up-to-date systems.
Step 4: Framing and Drywall
Once all the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC updates are addressed and signed off on, it’s time to tackle framing and drywall.
The drywall process involves hanging sheets of drywall, applying drywall compound, letting the compound dry, and sanding it smooth until a seamless surface is achieved.
Step 5: Painting
Once the drywall is smooth, it’s time to paint your newly blank canvas!
Painting is something you can do yourself, but it can also be backbreaking work.
In addition, if you want to achieve a clean, flawless paint job without the stress, you’ll want to hire a pro.
Step 6: Cabinets & Fixtures
With your newly painted walls, the rest of the space can start to come together.
Cabinetry, lighting, bathtubs, showers, toilets, sinks—have these installed next
Step 7: Doors & Windows
Next, it’s time to install windows and hang doors.
Before installing any carpet, be sure all doors are installed to ensure they can open and close freely.
If you’re installing laminate floors, they can wait until after the doors have been hung.
Step 8: Clean House & Air Vents
If you rented a dumpster, the main pieces of debris should already be out of the way.
Now, sweep or vacuum up any remaining debris and grime
All that renovation dust gets everywhere, so have a professional come to clean out your air vents and furnace.
Step 9: Flooring
Generally speaking, it’s best to hold off on flooring installation until the end of the remodeling process, so they don’t sustain any scrapes, nicks, or damages.
Carpeting, laminate, tile, and any remaining flooring should be the next step of the remodel process.
Step 10: Trim & Finish Work
Once flooring is installed, it’s time to nail up trim and finishes, door frames, and baseboards.
